Abstract: This invention is directed to methods for the facile and accurate identification of cancer cells in a tissue sample, such as a surgical field. In particular, the compositions and methods employ conjugates comprising pro-fluorescent fluorescein based moieties bound to folic or pteroic acid targeting moiety optionally through a linker. The pro-fluorescent fluorescein based moieties are non-fluorescent but capable of being rendered fluorescent by intracellular processes. The conjugates are employed to detect cancer cells that overexpress folic acid receptors thereby providing for differential accumulation of these conjugates in these cells.

Abstract: This invention is directed to methods for the facile and accurate identification of cancer cells in a tissue sample, such as a surgical field. In particular, the compositions and methods employ conjugates comprising pro-fluorescent fluorescein based moieties bound to folic or pteroic acid targeting moiety optionally through a linker. The pro-fluorescent fluorescein based moieties are non-fluorescent but capable of being rendered fluorescent by intracellular processes. The conjugates are employed to detect cancer cells that overexpress folic acid receptors thereby providing for differential accumulation of these conjugates in these cells.

Abstract: Disclosed are folic acid or pteroic acid conjugates and methods for using such conjugates. The conjugates described herein comprise a chemotherapeutic drug or imaging agent covalently bound thereto through a bond or via a linker that is intracellularly disrupted by, e.g., endogenous enzymes such as esterases, lipases and the like so as to provide for the chemotherapeutic drug free of the folic or pteroic acid.

Abstract: This technology relates to fluorescein conjugates including fluorescein conjugates of polymers.

Abstract: Provided herein are devices including a wrapping, such as a bandage or a food wrapper, that can detect incipient infection at wounds or incipient contamination in food by voltage, resistance, and/or current. Methods for detecting incipient microbial infections and incipient microbial contaminations are also included herein.

Abstract: This invention relates to contact lenses comprising pH indicating moieties useful for determining the presence or absence of active bacterial infections wherein said pH indicator is entrapped in the lens. Other aspects relate to contact lenses comprising pH indicating moieties useful for determining the presence or absence of active bacterial infections and a biodegradable coating with a biocompatible colorant entrapped within the coating useful for determining the usable lifespan of the contact lens. Other aspects relate to methods of using such contact lenses.