Abstract: The present invention provides methods for detecting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) DNA and/or fragments thereof in blood. The first method involves extracting DNA from a blood sample, preferably plasma, by amplifying the DNA using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or a ligase chain reaction (LCR) method, and detecting a target DNA sequence in the amplified DNA. The preferred target DNA sequence comprises a Mr26 or a 16S rRNA gene or fragments thereof specific to H. pylori. The second method involves extracting DNA from a blood sample, preferably serum, by hybridizing the extracted DNA with a radioisotope or fluorescence labeled H. pylori DNA probe.

Abstract: An interactive information system includes personal bracelets containing passive electronic devices interacting with a plurality of receiver units, a central database, and a processor unit located within an amusement park. People wear the bracelets with self-contained receivers that contain unique identification codes to electronically link receiver units within a selected group. Scanners strategically located at attractions and in kiosks throughout the park relay positional data sent to a main database and computer for processing thereby enable users access to positional information of group members, reserve time slots on rides and attractions along with the ability to order and pay for food and other services.