Abstract: Methods and apparatuses are described for integrating common and context-specific natural language understanding (NLU) processing in a virtual assistant application. A server identifies a common NLU processing unit comprising (i) a common NLU classification model and (ii) a common response library comprising common responses. The server builds a combined NLU processing unit based upon the common NLU classification model and a context-specific NLU classification model, the combined NLU processing unit comprising (i) a combined NLU classification model trained using the common NLU training data and context-specific NLU training data, (ii) the common response library and (iii) a context-specific response library comprising context-specific responses. The server generates a response to an input utterance by determining a user intent associated with the input utterance using the combined NLU classification model, locating a response associated with the user intent in one or more of the libraries.

Abstract: The invention relates to agglutination assays and related kits, reagents and devices. In particular methods of assaying small analytes having few epitopes are disclosed, by means of using hub moieties to which multiple analytes may be bound by a first epitope, together with a further moiety capable of binding a second analyte epitope and which is also capable of binding to a detectable particle. Stable agglutinated complexes may be so formed, which may used as the basis for various assay formats.

Abstract: An apparatus and method, the apparatus includes a substrate configured to support a plurality of dielectric layers, a device coupling area positioned in the substrate, and a plurality of gas exit apertures formed through the substrate. The plurality of gas exit apertures is configured to provide venting of at least one of moisture and outgassed material and the device coupling area is configured to receive an electronic device coupleable to the plurality of dielectric layers.

Abstract: An apparatus and method, the apparatus includes a substrate configured to support a plurality of dielectric layers, a device coupling area positioned in the substrate, and a plurality of gas exit apertures formed through the substrate. The plurality of gas exit apertures is configured to provide venting of at least one of moisture and outgassed material and the device coupling area is configured to receive an electronic device coupleable to the plurality of dielectric layers.

Abstract: The invention relates to agglutination assays and related kits, reagents and devices. In particular methods of assaying small analytes having few epitopes are disclosed, by means of using hub moieties to which multiple analytes may be bound by a first epitope, together with a further moiety capable of binding a second analyte epitope and which is also capable of binding to a detectable particle. Stable agglutinated complexes may be so formed, which may used as the basis for various assay formats.

Abstract: The invention describes a unique composition of ingredients for improving the skin's visual appearance, function, and biophysical properties that has been changed by factors such as chronological age, chronic sun exposure, adverse environmental pollutants, household chemicals, disease pathologies, smoking, and malnutrition. In particular, the present invention relates to the composition of topically-applied cosmetics formulas that effectively treat aged and environmentally-damaged skin. These formulas may comprise various combinations of cosmetically compatible plant lectins, a high energy source for skin cell metabolism such as lactobacillus ferment, hydrolyzed wheat protein, glycine, arginine, and methionine and &bgr;-Glucans, which are formulated into different types of cosmetic vehicles. The invention provides for an effective alternative to the use of mono- and polyhydroxy acids, retinoid compounds, vitamins, nutraceuticals, physical corneum desquamating devices, and various plant and animal extracts.