Abstract: A holding assembly for a camera system comprises a first pair of support rods connected to the camera system and extending from the camera system and at least one functional device. A first support element having at least a first pair of recesses on a side of the support element pointing towards the pair of support rods and at least a pair of noses is attached to the first pair of support rods by inserting the first pair of support rods into the first of pair of recesses. A second support element with at least a second pair of recesses on a side pointing towards the first support element holds the at least one functional device and is attached to the first support element by inserting the pair of noses on the first support element into the second pair of recesses in the second support element. The invention, thus, provides a holding assembly which allows an easy attachment and detachment of a functional device to and from a camera system, is convenient in its handling and reliable in its operation.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided that improve the specificity and efficiency of nucleic acid amplification. A binding partner may be bound to a DNA polymerase enzyme where the binding partner substantially inhibits the activity of the polymerase. A second enzyme modifies the binding partner in a manner that relieves the inhibition of the polymerase activity. The activity of the second enzyme may be inhibited in a temperature-sensitive manner such that the second enzyme is active only at elevated temperatures. As a consequence, the polymerase enzyme also is active only when the temperature is elevated.

Abstract: The present invention provides Improved methods for amplifying a nucleic acid molecule. More specifically, the invention provides methods for nucleic acid amplification which use primers having equivalent priming efficiency.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a novel “green” agricultural formulation comprising at least one encapsulated volatile essential oil and a non-volatile vehicle in which said at least one encapsulated volatile essential oil is carried.

Abstract: Methods for making cDNA molecules, for amplification of RNA by PCR and for preparation of cDNA libraries are provided. Kits for making cDNA molecules also are provided. Compositions are also provided comprising mixtures of reagents, including reverse transcriptases, buffers, cofactors and other components, suitable for immediate use in conversion of RNA into cDNA and RT PCR without dilution or addition of further components. These compositions are useful, alone or in the form of kits, for cDNA synthesis or nucleic acid amplification (e.g., by the Polymerase Chain Reaction) or for any procedure utilizing reverse transcriptases in a variety of research, medical, diagnostic, forensic and agricultural applications.

Abstract: Method and compositions for improving DNA polymerase and reverse transcriptase reactions are provided. Addition of anti-foam reagents to the reactions improves fluid handling, especially of small volumes and allows enhanced accuracy of optical detection, without substantially inhibiting enzymatic activity.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to compositions and methods for enhancing synthesis of nucleic acid molecules, particularly GC-rich nucleic acid molecules. Specifically, the invention provides compositions comprising one or more nitrogen-containing organic compounds having a formula selected from the group consisting of formula I and formula II (or salts or derivatives thereof), preferably 4-methylmorpholine N-oxide or betaine (carboxymethyltrimethylammonium), and further comprising one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of proline and an N-alkylimidazole compound, and more preferably proline, 1-methylimidazole or 4-methylimidazole. The invention further relates to methods for enhanced, high-fidelity synthesis of nucleic acid molecules, including via amplification (particularly PCR), reverse transcription, and sequencing methods.

Abstract: A system for providing information relating to a user activity focus. The system in a descriptive embodiment, provides the contextual information implicitly, without the need for user intervention. In this preferred embodiment the system first collects data regarding the information in the storage device. The activity focus of the user is also inferred by the system. Then data is retrieved regarding the activity of the user. The system displays relevant data by way of a user interface display. The system monitors the events occurring due to the interaction of the user and the computer system. Thus, the system is able to determine when the user changes activity focus, retrieve data relevant to the new focus and display that relevant data.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to compositions and methods for enhancing synthesis of nucleic acid molecules, particularly GC-rich nucleic acid molecules. Specifically, the invention provides compositions comprising one or more nitrogen-containing organic compounds having a formula selected from the group consisting of formula I and formula II (or salts or derivatives thereof), preferably 4-methylmorpholine N-oxide or betaine (carboxymethyltrimethylammonium), and further comprising one or more compounds selected from the group consisting of proline and an N-alkylimidazole compound, and more preferably proline, 1-methyliimidazole or 4-methylimidazole. The invention further relates to methods for enhanced, high-fidelity synthesis of nucleic acid molecules, including via amplification (particularly PCR), reverse transcription, and sequencing methods.

Abstract: A variable displacement vane type pump having a pivotally mounted ring member controllable to vary the eccentricity between the rotor and the ring thus controlling the pump displacement. The ring is positioned on the pivot such that the center thereof is always located in one quadrant relative to axes through the pivot point and the center of the pump rotor to continually maintain the net ring reaction force, due to internal pressure, directed to one side of the pivot connection in opposition to the displacement control pressure, which is impressed on a portion of the outer surface of the ring, whereby control stability throughout the displacement range is improved.

Abstract: A control mechanism for a disc-type friction device having a fluid operated piston including a valve member slidably disposed in the piston. The valve member is maintained in abutment with one of the disc members. The valve member is operatable to control the distribution of fluid pressure to and from the apply chamber of the friction device so that the piston is maintained at a predetermined distance from the disc member abutted by the valve member whenever the friction device is disengaged.