Abstract: The present invention relates to compositions and methods useful for the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of bacterial infections.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to self-folding, soluble, stable RSV G and F polypeptides that contain a neutralizing epitope. Fusion proteins and immunogenic conjugates containing the RSV G and F polypeptides, along with recombinant transgenes and vectors, and host cells suitable for expression of such genetic constructs are also disclosed. Use of the RSV G and F polypeptides, fusion proteins, immunogenic conjugates, or a pharmaceutical composition containing the same, is contemplated for inducing a protective immune response against RSV.

Abstract: Disclosed are methods and kits for early detection of antigen exposure through the presence or absence of antigen-specific antibodies.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to a chimeric papillomavirus virus-like particle (VLP) or capsomere including an L1 polypeptide and, optionally, an L2 polypeptide, and a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) protein or polypeptide fragment thereof comprising a first epitope, where the RSV protein or polypeptide fragment thereof is attached to one or both of the L1 and L2 polypeptides. Chimeric proteins, genetic constructions, and recombinant vectors and host cells suitable for expression of the constructs and making of the chimeric VLPs or capsomeres are also disclosed. Use of the VLPs or capsomeres, or a pharmaceutical composition containing the same, is contemplated for inducing a protective immune response against RSV.

Abstract: Novel human monoclonal antibodies, and their corresponding nucleic acid sequences having high affinity for the human RSV-F protein are provided.

Abstract: A method of detecting RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) in an analyte using high affinity human monoclonal antibodies is provided.

Abstract: A method of obtaining high affinity human monoclonal antibodies having a Kd of .ltoreq.2.times.10.sup.-9 molar in SCID mice is provided.

Abstract: A method of treating or preventing RSV infection by the administration of high affinity human monoclonal antibodies having a Kd of about 2.times.10.sup.-9 to 10.sup.-10 molar is provided.

Abstract: A highly efficient method for generating human antibodies in particular which are specific to be RSV fusion protein which combines in vitro priming of human spleen cells and antigen boosting in SCID mice is taught. This method provides for very high human antibody titers which are predominantly of the IgG isotype which contain antibodies of high specificity and affinity to desired antigens. This method is well suited for generating human monoclonal antibodies for therapeutic and diagnostic applications as well as for rescue of human cells for generation of combinational human antibody gene libraries. Two human monoclonal antibodies, RF-1 and RF-2 which each possess an affinity for RSV F-protein about 2.times.10.sup.-9 to 10.sup.-10 Molar are taught as well as their corresponding amino acid and DNA sequences. These antibodies are to be used therapeutically and prophylactically for treating or preventing RSV infection, as well as for diagnosis of RSV in analytes.

Abstract: Polypeptides, nucleotides, and compositions useful for preparing diagnostic reagents for and vaccines against human Respiratory Syncytial Virus are disclosed. The polypeptides include short polypeptides which are related to a neutralizing and fusion epitope of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus fusion protein or a neutralizing epitope of the G protein.

Abstract: Polypeptides, nucleotides, and compositions useful for preparing diagnostic reagents for and vaccines against human Respiratory Syncytial Virus are disclosed. The polypeptides include short polypeptides which are related to a neutralizing and fusion epitope of the Respiratory Syncytial Virus fusion protein or a neutralizing epitope of the G protein.

Abstract: A compressible drinking apparatus includes a body rigidifying and bounding the open end of a flexible liquid-containing bag and a storage member on the bag engageable with the rigidifying body for attaining a compact storage condition of the apparatus after the bag has been emptied of liquid.