Abstract: A process for detecting the presence of a mutation in an oligonucleotide strand such as a DNA strand from a gene without the need for DNA sequencing is provided. The inventive process provides a rapid pre-test to screen for the presence or absence of a mutation in a target gene of a subject to determine whether laborious sequencing protocols are required to further characterize a mutation. The inventive process provides a rapid screening protocol for identifying and detecting a genetic mutation in a patient who presents with a disease.

Abstract: A concentrator of particles dissolved or suspended in a liquid includes a top surface having a hole array therethrough and a bottom surface fused to the top surface to define an intermediate volume accessed only through the hole array. A concentrator of particles dissolved or suspended in a liquid is also provided that has an inner channel and an exterior surface and a tube having a hole array providing liquid communication between the inner channel and the exterior surface. A liquid-impermeable sheath surrounds the hole array and forms a seal to the exterior surface to define a volume between said sheath and the exterior surface. A process for concentrating particles from a liquid with these concentrators is also provided.

Abstract: A process for identifying a complementary nucleic acid probe to a target nucleic acid involves forming an array of spots where each spot of the array has an immobilized nucleic acid anti-probe to which is hybridized a nucleic acid probe. The array of the anti-probe-probe complex is denatured. The nucleic acid probes are then moved into a target chamber that includes a target nucleic acid. Hybridization conditions are established to form double-stranded complexation between the target nucleic acid and nucleic acid probes in instances where the target nucleic acid has a sequence complementary. The nucleic acid probes noncomplementary to the target nucleic acid are allowed to rehybridize with anti-probes. Determining whether the anti-probe spots exposed to nucleic acid probes noncomplementary to the target nucleic acid are single stranded after exposure to noncomplementary nucleic acid probes provides information as to target nucleic acid sequence.

Abstract: A process is provided for identifying a complementary target nucleic acid. The process includes the hybridization of a nucleic acid probe to a carrier to form a nucleic acid probe-carrier complex. The complex is placed in a compartment bounded by a media permeable to the nucleic acid probe and exclusive of both the carrier and the complex. The complex is then denatured, with the nucleic acid probe transported through the media and into contact with the target nucleic acid. The nucleic acid probe hybridizes to the complementary target nucleic acid to yield a probe-target double stranded complex. A non-complementary nucleic acid probe, independent probe-target complex is returned to the compartment and given an opportunity to rehybridize to the carrier. A determination as to whether at least one of the complementary target nucleic acid or the carrier is present as a complex provides information as to probe sequences complementary to the target nucleic acid.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for DNA sequencing is provided. In the field of DNA analysis, an iterative process is disclosed wherein an apparatus with a set of recognition chambers in which a species of recognition element nucleotides are differentially added and subjected to a polymerization reaction allows recognition of which species is next in sequence on a template strand as measured by a detector in a detection area. The position in the sequence is then completed by addition of a saturating amount of building element to complete the polymerization reaction on all structure strands. The process is repeated until the sequence is identified.

Abstract: Compositions, methods, apparatuses, kits, and combinations are described for permanently or temporarily re-designing, decorating, and/or re-coloring a surface. The compositions useful in the present disclosure include a décor product that is formulated to be applied and affixed to a surface. If desired, the décor product may be substantially removed from the surface before being affixed thereto. If a user desires to remove the décor product, the décor product is formulated to be removed by a number of methods including, for example, vacuuming, wet extraction, chemical application, and the like. If the user desires to affix the décor product to the surface in a permanent or semi-permanent manner, the décor product may be affixed to the surface by applying energy thereto in the form of, for example, heat, pressure, emitted waves, an emitted electrical field, a magnetic field, and/or a chemical.

Abstract: A closed space disposable micro-reactor is provided with a capillary vessel with a first end and a second end, a first closed air chamber wherein said first end of the capillary vessel opens into the first closed air chamber; and a second closed air chamber wherein the second end of the capillary chamber opens into said second closed air chamber. The capillary vessel is pre-filled with a liquid sample. A droplet of reagent set in proximity to the first end of the capillary vessel is provided. Also provided is a partner capillary vessel with a first partner end and a second partner end, and a third closed air chamber wherein the first partner end of the partner capillary vessel opens into the second closed air chamber, and the second partner end opens to the second air chamber.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for self-assembling a number of elements and determining their sequence is provided. In the field of DNA analysis, an iterative process is disclosed wherein an apparatus with a set of reaction chambers in which a species of recognition element nucleotides are differentially added and subjected to a polymerization reaction allows recognition of which species is next in sequence on a template strand by the effect that synthesis has on a detecting template as measured by a detector in a detection area. Stepwise addition of the identified species then determines if an element repeat exists. The process is repeated until the entire structure is complete and the sequence identified.

Abstract: A process for detecting the presence of a mutation in an oligonucleotide strand such as a DNA strand from a gene without the need for DNA sequencing is provided. The inventive process provides a rapid pre-test to screen for the presence or absence of a mutation in a target gene of a subject to determine whether laborious sequencing protocols are required to further characterize a mutation.

Abstract: Broadband output high power pulsed flash lamps are useful in many applications, and when specifically optimized, can become an excellent source of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is particularly useful for photo-chemically-induced materials processing applications. Multiple factors involved with the production of high-energy light pulses can in certain cases adversely affect the ultraviolet lamp operation, thereby resulting in the development of micro cracks in lamp envelopes and subsequent limitation in lamp lifetime. Similar factors can be responsible for an increased absorption of UV radiation by lamp components and degradation of lamp efficiency. This invention describes new pulsed flash lamp designs that enable a new generation of high power and performance as required by, for example, many large-scale photo-processing applications.

Abstract: A process for identifying a complementary nucleic acid probe to a target nucleic acid involves forming an array of spots where each spot of the array has an immobilized nucleic acid anti-probe to which is hybridized a nucleic acid probe. The array of the anti-probe-probe complex is denatured. The nucleic acid probes are then moved into a target chamber that includes a target nucleic acid. Hybridization conditions are established to form double-stranded complexation between the target nucleic acid and nucleic acid probes in instances where the target nucleic acid has a sequence complementary. The nucleic acid probes noncomplementary to the target nucleic acid are allowed to rehybridize with anti-probes. Determining whether the anti-probe spots exposed to nucleic acid probes noncomplementary to the target nucleic acid are single stranded after exposure to noncomplementary nucleic acid probes provides information as to target nucleic acid sequence.

Abstract: A process is provided for identifying a complementary target nucleic acid. The process includes the hybridization of a nucleic acid probe to a carrier to form a nucleic acid probe-carrier complex. The complex is placed in a compartment bounded by a media permeable to the nucleic acid probe and exclusive of both the carrier and the complex. The complex is then denatured, with the nucleic acid probe transported through the media and into contact with the target nucleic acid. The nucleic acid probe hybridizes to the complementary target nucleic acid to yield a probe-target double stranded complex. A non-complementary nucleic acid probe, independent probe-target complex is returned to the compartment and given an opportunity to rehybridize to the carrier. A determination as to whether at least one of the complementary target nucleic acid or the carrier is present as a complex provides information as to probe sequences complementary to the target nucleic acid.

Abstract: A process and apparatus for self-assembling a number of elements and determining their sequence is provided. In the field of DNA analysis, an iterative process is disclosed wherein an apparatus with a set of reaction chambers in which a species of recognition element nucleotides are differentially added and subjected to a polymerization reaction allows recognition of which species is next in sequence on a template strand as measured by a detector in a detection area. Fractional concentration stepwise addition of the identified species then determines if an element repeat exists. The position in the sequence is then completed by addition of a saturating amount of building element to complete the polymerization reaction on all structure strands. The process is repeated until the entire structure is complete and the sequence identified.

Abstract: Disclosed is a T-fastener delivery device. The device includes a belt and a pusher rod. The belt includes a plurality of slots for holding a plurality of T-bars substantially parallel to one another in a side-by-side arrangement; and the belt is moveable such that the slots can be sequentially aligned with the pusher rod. Also disclosed are methods for creating a gastric pouch in the stomach of an obese patient and methods for reducing lower esophageal sphincter distraction with gastric filling in a subject. Suturing systems are also disclosed One suturing system includes a plurality of T-fasteners and a continuous suture connecting the plurality of T-fasteners. The T-fastener comprises a cylindrical bar having a filament loop attached thereto substantially at the cylindrical bar's axial midpoint, and the continuous suture slidably passes through the T-fasteners' filament loops. Another suturing system includes a plurality of T-fasteners; and a continuous suture connecting the plurality of T-fasteners.

Abstract: Broadband output high power pulsed flash lamps are useful in many applications, including beacons, communications, imaging, laser pumping, and materials processing. When specifically optimized, they can become an excellent source of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is particularly useful for photo-chemically-induced materials processing applications. Ultraviolet lamps producing high power pulsed ultraviolet (PUV) light can be ideally suitable for use in the decontamination of fluids (particularly water, wastewater, and other liquids, gases and objects), and for other applications such as photo-enhancement of chemical reactions, treatment of light sensitive materials, medical use, and so forth.

Abstract: Broadband output high power pulsed flash lamps are useful in many applications, and when specifically optimized, can become an excellent source of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is particularly useful for photo-chemically-induced materials processing applications. Multiple factors involved with the production of high-energy light pulses can in certain cases adversely affect the ultraviolet lamp operation, thereby resulting in the development of micro cracks in lamp envelopes and subsequent limitation in lamp lifetime. Similar factors can be responsible for an increased absorption of UV radiation by lamp components and degradation of lamp efficiency. This invention describes new pulsed flash lamp designs that enable a new generation of high power and performance as required by, for example, many large-scale photo-processing applications.

Abstract: Compositions, methods, apparatuses, kits, and combinations are described for permanently or temporarily re-designing, decorating, and/or re-coloring a surface. The compositions useful in the present disclosure include a décor product that is formulated to be applied and affixed to a surface. If desired, the décor product may be substantially removed from the surface before being affixed thereto. If a user desires to remove the décor product, the décor product is formulated to be removed by a number of methods including, for example, vacuuming, wet extraction, chemical application, and the like. If the user desires to affix the décor product to the surface in a permanent or semi-permanent manner, the décor product may be affixed to the surface by applying energy thereto in the form of, for example, heat, pressure, emitted waves, an emitted electrical field, a magnetic field, and/or a chemical.

Abstract: An absorbent fiber is constructed to include a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic interior for use in various absorbent constructions as an absorbent, capture and entrain liquids and attendant odors. A moisture monitoring device can be included in the absorbent fiber to detect a designated moisture level absorbed by the absorbent fiber. The moisture monitoring device includes a sensing device for detecting moisture absorbed by the absorbent fiber; and an alert device for receiving a signal from the sensor device when the sensor device detects a specified moisture level in the absorbent fiber. When the signal is received, the alert device issues an audible sound or otherwise notifies the user.

Abstract: An electric shaver, and in particular an electric shaver wherein are included blades which while rotating around their own centers also orbit around another axis, thus providing that the blades sweep a large area.

Abstract: An absorbent fiber is constructed to include a hydrophobic exterior and a hydrophilic interior for use in various absorbent constructions as an absorbent, capture and entrain liquids and attendant odors. A moisture monitoring device can be included in the absorbent fiber to detect a designated moisture level absorbed by the absorbent fiber. The moisture monitoring device includes a sensing device for detecting moisture absorbed by the absorbent fiber; and an alert device for receiving a signal from the sensor device when the sensor device detects a specified moisture level in the absorbent fiber. When the signal is received, the alert device issues an audible sound or otherwise notifies the user.