Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: A sexual aid turntable system for providing a new and unusual platform for engaging in sexual acts. The sexual aid turntable system includes a platform with an aperture in the center. This platform is preferably circular and of a sufficient thickness to bear the weight of an individual using the system. The platform is attached to a rotational member which may be a ball thrust bearing assembly, more commonly referred to as a lazy susan bearing assembly. This rotational member is attached to a supporting frame with adjustable height legs. The design allows for the system to be situated above one sexual participant and adjusted to a comfortable height. The other sexual participant then positions himself or herself upon the platform. The system allows for 360° rotation of one participant while the participants are engaging in sexual acts. The design of the system also allows for greater comfort as no weight bearing is required by either participant.

Abstract: The blood-clotting protein, factor IX, is synthesized in the bod in liver cells, where it undergoes three distinct types of post-translational modification before it is secreted into the bloodstream as a 415 amino acid long protein. It is therefore a difficult protein to produce by recombinant DNA technology in a highly biologically active form. Nevertheless, such a result has been achieved by the present invention in which typically factor IX cDNA in a plasmid is linearized and inserted into an expression vector having a promoter sequence of SV40 early gene, an SV40 polyadenylation sequence, the TK/NEO selectable marker and an ampicillin resistance gene. Mammalian cells such as from a dog kidney or rat liver are transfected by the calcium phosphate precipitation method.