Abstract: The instant application provides methods of diagnosing and treating a subject having IBS. In certain embodiments, the methods also include diagnosing subjects who will respond to IBS treatment with rifaximin.

Abstract: The instant application provides methods of diagnosing and treating a subject having IBS. In certain embodiments, the methods also include diagnosing subjects who will respond to IBS treatment with rifaximin.

Abstract: This invention is directed to a novel method to detect adenomas and colorectal cancer (CRC) using a bacterial signature. Included in the invention are methods of (a) determining an individual's risk developing adenomas or CRC; (b) determine whether or not a patient should have a colonoscopy; (c) differential diagnosis; (d) staging; (e) selecting therapies; (f) monitoring therapies; (g) patient surveillance; and (h) drug screening. Kits and reagents for detecting adenomas and CRC and/or drug screening are also part of the invention.

Abstract: Anodized aluminum coatings employed in semiconductor processing equipment are treated to reduce their sensitivity to halogenated species. The pores of the aluminum oxide surface can be filled either by a metal, such as magnesium or aluminum, forming the corresponding metal oxide that is resistant to reaction with halogens, or by filling the pores with a getter for halogens, such as hydrogen ions. The hydrogen ions adsorbed on the surface of the aluminum oxide react with halogens to form volatile hydrogen halides that can be pumped away in the exhaust system of the semiconductor processing chambers, thereby preventing or reducing reaction of the underlying aluminum oxide with the halogens.