Abstract: The entire genome of pathogenic E. coli strain O157:H7 has been sequenced. All of the genomic DNA sequences present in O157 and absent in the previously sequenced laboratory strain K12 are presented here.

Abstract: A computerized method is described for assembling DNA sequence determined for small DNA fragments, called fragment reads, into larger fragments of DNA sequence called contigs. The method used makes a table of occurrences or counts for each mer appearing in any of the fragment reads and then picks from among those mers specific mers to use as mer tags. Following checking, the mer tags are used to assemble fragment reads into contigs. A feature of this method is that the processing time necessary to perform this process on a computer varies linearly with the number of fragment reads rather than with the square or cube of the number of fragment reads.

Abstract: An apparatus for sealing and maintaining a desired temperature of a sample holder includes a non-deformable support, a deformable diaphragm secured to the lower surface of the support and a thermal regulable heater in thermal connection with the diaphragm. The apparatus can be positioned above the upper surface of a sample holder and, upon inflation of the diaphragm, a seal is formed between the diaphragm and the sample holder. When the thermoregulable heating element is activated, the sample holder is maintained at the desired temperature. The temperature can be coordinately regulated with a block heater that heats the underside of the sample holder.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device which delivers microliter and sub-microliter volumes by means of a reciprocating force mechanism requires no capillary contact between the delivery system and work surface. Furthermore, a built-in vacuum-based rinse station permits the user to dispense a variety of fluids while avoiding complex and time consuming changes to the fluid delivery system.

Abstract: A fluid delivery device which delivers microliter and sub-microliter volumes by means of a reciprocating force mechanism requires no capillary contact between the delivery system and work surface. Furthermore, a built-in vacuum-based rinse station permits the user to dispense a variety of fluids while avoiding complex and time consuming changes to the fluid delivery system.

Abstract: A sequencing vector based on the M13 phage vector is disclosed which is particularly adapted for use in large scale DNA sequencing procedures. The vector includes a vector unique restriction site flanked by recognition sites, attP and attB, for the site specific recombination as catalyzed by a site specific recombination agent, lambda integrase. Using the vector, which incorporates the capability from M13 to replicate single stranded DNA for dideoxynucleotide sequencing, single stranded DNA of either strand may be selectively created since the orientation of any insert into the restriction site can readily be reversed by exposure of the vector to the recombination agent. This capability is particularly useful in large scale semi-random DNA sequencing in which the ability to selectively produce opposite strands is useful in filling gaps or ambiguities in large sequences.

Abstract: A system and method for the construction of one-dimensional maps from fragmentation data is disclosed. Particularly useful for construction of restriction maps of DNA, the system and method completely permutes sites, single digest fragments, and any available multiple digest fragments, and displays maps in rank-order according to a quality factor. Display of constructed maps includes information about relative ordering of all fragments, sites, and particularly about closely-spaced sites and fragments.