Abstract: An effective broad spectrum system useful in an extended range of physical factors and/or composition elements in a cosmetic or personal care product for preservation is described by the present invention. The broad spectrum, water soluble preservative system of the present invention includes an acid or acid derivative, chlorphenesin and a solvent mixed with phenoxyethanol.

Abstract: Compositions useful in the treatment of dietary disorders, and as dietary additives to provide a source of fiber and of short chain fatty acids, to reduce the level of serum cholesterol, increase HDL cholesterol levels and as bulking agents in humans and animals, as well as methods of use therefor are described. The compositions and methods are based on whole .beta.-glucans.

Abstract: Methods for inducing mobilization of peripheral blood precursor cells, for elevating levels of peripheral blood precursor cells and facilitating hematopoietic reconstitution in a mammal are disclosed, comprising administering to the mammal an effective amount of an underivatized, aqueous soluble .beta.(1,3)-glucan in a triple helix conformation, which does not stimulate or prime the production of proinflammatory cytokines in vitro.

Abstract: A preparation containing a receptor for underivatized, aqueous soluble .beta.(1-3)-glucan is disclosed, along with characterization of the receptor for underivatized, aqueous soluble .beta.(1-3)-glucan. Also described are assays for identifying agents which alter the effect of underivatized, aqueous soluble .beta.(1-3)-glucan on activation of signal transduction pathways and agents identified thereby.

Abstract: Methods of isolating .beta.(1-3)-glucan or .beta.(1-3)glucan-containing organisms in a sample, or of detecting the presence of .beta.(1-3)-glucan or .beta.(1-3)-glucan-containing organisms in a sample, utilizing binding agents for .beta.(1-3)-glucan, such as LacCer, GalCer, globotriaosylceramide and asialoganglioside-GM1, are described. Methods of diagnosing fungal infection, by detecting .beta.(1-3)-glucan or .beta.(1-3)-glucan-containing organisms, are also described. Antibodies and kits useful in the methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to soluble .beta.-glucan compositions. In one embodiment, the invention provides a soluble .beta.-glucan composition which is substantially in a triple helix aggregate conformation under physiological conditions, such as physiological temperature and pH. Such a composition is generally characterized by an aggregate number greater than about 6. The invention further provides methods of preparing .beta.-glucan compositions of this type, as well as methods of characterizing the conformational state of .beta.-glucans.

Abstract: Compositions useful in the treatment of dietary disorders, and as dietary additives to provide a source of fiber and of short chain fatty acids, to reduce the level of serum cholesterol and as bulking agents in humans and animals, as well as methods of use therefor are described. The compositions and methods are based on whole .beta.-glucans.