Abstract: This invention makes it possible to perform analysis for estimating the characteristics of a population using sample data. By obtaining sample data, embedding genetic (statistical) knowledge in a first and second state variable that have duality, and having the first and second state variables converge to the original value, the characteristics of the population of the sample data are estimated, and the estimated results of the characteristics of the population are output. By doing so, it is possible to perform analysis for estimating characteristics of a population using sample data.

Abstract: It is intended to provide a systematic analysis method wherein the virtual haplotype of a gene polymorphism serving as a marker is assumed and then a relevant haplotype block and a gene or a genome domain relating to a phenotype are successively determined from the whole genome domain or a genome domain of interest. As FIG. 1 shows, a discontinuous analysis method of the embodiment 1 comprises repeating the steps of constructing a virtual block from a discontinuous genome domain, determining a haplotype block based on a virtual haplotype, and then analyzing the relevancy to thereby determine a genome domain relating to a phenotype. Thus, it is possible to determine a relevant haplotype block, a relevant haplotype and a relevant gene.

Abstract: An instrument for processing light information to assay chemical or biological molecules is made more flexible by the use of a replaceable filter module. Several light filters, or in one embodiment dichroic mirrors, are mounted in a common module in fixed position relative to each other. The whole filter module can then be removed, and a different one inserted in its place, to change the wavelength bands of light detected by the instrument, as needed, for different applications.

Abstract: An apparatus for detecting fluorescently-labeled molecules moving in an electrophoretic separation medium. The apparatus utilizes a scanning detection system in which multiple fluorophores are efficiently and simultaneously detected using dichroic mirrors to allow simultaneous detection of fluorescently-labeled molecules in ultrathin gels labeled with several fluorophores and to permit operation at speeds ten times faster than prior art gel separations. The apparatus also utilizes a detection system where lightweight collection optics are in motion while detection optics are fixed in a remote location, thereby allowing exceptionally high-speed scanning.