Abstract: A method of determining the presence or absence of a target microorganism in a sample to be tested, the method comprising: combining with the sample an amount of bacteriophage capable of attaching to the target microorganism to create a bacteriophage exposed sample, and a substance which enhances bacteriophage amplification or sensitivity; providing conditions to the bacteriophage-exposed sample sufficient to allow the bacteriophage to infect the microorganism; and assaying the bacteriophage-exposed sample to detect the presence or absence of a bacteriophage marker to determine the presence or absence of the target microorganism.

Abstract: A method of determining the presence or absence of a target microorganism in a sample to be tested, the method comprising: combining with the sample an amount of bacteriophage capable of attaching to the target microorganism to create a bacteriophage exposed sample, and a substance which enhances bacteriophage amplification or sensitivity; providing conditions to the bacteriophage-exposed sample sufficient to allow the bacteriophage to infect the microorganism; and assaying the bacteriophage-exposed sample to detect the presence or absence of a bacteriophage marker to determine the presence or absence of the target microorganism.

Abstract: Bacteriophage are combined with a test sample in an incubator, and the bacteriophage-exposed test sample is conjugated and applied to a sample pad in contact with a lateral flow strip to determine the presence or absence of a target bacterium. The conjugation may be performed in the sample pad or prior to application of the bacteriophage-exposed test sample to the pad. The incubator comprises a bacteriophage container and an incubation container separated by a valve. The test sample may be inserted into the incubation chamber using a swab or a rod with a piercing tip and a sample collection eye. The valve comprises a breakable stem. An antibiotic may be added to the test sample to determine the antibiotic resistance or susceptibility of the bacterium.

Abstract: A generally inverted “T” shaped, resiliently self locking, integral sportboard fastener is adapted to be received in a countersunk aperture formed in a sportboard such as a snowboard, ski, boogie board, skateboard or any other board which supports a person and has one or more structures attached thereto. The fastener comprises a noncircular base portion to be received within a countersink defined in the sportboard. The base and the countersink comprise two parallel sides and two opposite concentric arcs forming two opposite ends. A generally cylindrical integral ferrule portion extends upwardly from the base, through a bore defined in the sportboard, concentric with the countersink. The ferrule defines internal threads to receive a screw to secure a binding or other fixture to the sportboard. An internal annulus portion is defined at the juncture of the base and ferrule. A generally circular, preferably nylon, resilient insert ring is disposed within the annulus.