Abstract: Methods of identifying the type of a cell are provided, the methods comprising determining the Tm profile of a sample rRNA or fragment thereof from the cell using a double stranded nucleic acid-specific dye, wherein a match between the determined Tm profile and the Tm profile of a corresponding rRNA or fragment thereof of a cell from a known cell type indicates that the sample rRNA is from the known cell type.

Abstract: A transition device for placement at the opening of the tip of a cannula body for the purpose of controlling the shape of the cannula tip opening under various loads such as might be encountered during device placement.

Abstract: A novel method for characterizing nucleic acids. A nucleic acid is combined with a double stranded nucleic acid-specific dye to form a detectable complex between the dye and one or more double stranded structures within the nucleic acid. The combination is then exposed to varying temperatures and the fluorescence emission of the dye is measured to determine the melting temperature(s) for the double stranded structures. In some embodiments that melting temperature profile is then compared to melting temperature profiles generated for other nucleic acid(s) to discern differences between the compared nucleic acids.

Abstract: A novel method for characterizing nucleic acids. A nucleic acid is combined with a double stranded nucleic acid-specific dye to form a detectable complex between the dye and one or more double stranded structures within the nucleic acid. The combination is then exposed to varying temperatures and the fluorescence emission of the dye is measured to determine the melting temperature(s) for the double stranded structures. In some embodiments that melting temperature profile is then compared to melting temperature profiles generated for other nucleic acid(s) to discern differences between the compared nucleic acids.