Abstract: A microarray with optically recorded information and a sample capable of producing a signal as a response to external influence, or a precursor which, when activated or combined with a reagent, produces a sample capable of generating a signal. The microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive. A method for acquiring information about a sample comprises directing a probe to a sample at a microarray to produce a signal from the sample, wherein the microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive, and detecting the signal. The information optically recorded on the microarray can be in the CD, DVD or HD DVD or Blue Ray format.

Abstract: A microarray with optically recorded information and a sample capable of producing a signal as a response to external influence, or a precursor which, when activated or combined with a reagent, produces a sample capable of generating a signal. The microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive. A method for acquiring information about a sample comprises directing a probe to a sample at a microarray to produce a signal from the sample, wherein the microarray is compatible with a dual functionality optical drive, and detecting the signal. The information optically recorded on the microarray can be in the CD, DVD or HD DVD or Blue Ray format.

Abstract: The invention provides cyclodextrin derivatives that are substituted with groups bearing charges in aqueous solutions (charged cyclodextrins) in their salt forms and their use, also in combinations with other cyclodextrins, as useful components of plant cell and tissue growth media. The invention also comprises a new method of isolation of useful hydrophobic compounds, such as taxol, produced by plant cultures from the cyclodextrin-containing growth media and from the corresponding cell cultures.