Abstract: A method and system for managing a workflow using instant messages to determine the statuses of interdependent tasks. First and second tasks of the workflow are determined to be interdependent, whereby the first task is required to be completed before the second task is started. After receiving a first instant message (IM) that responds to an IM-based first query requesting a status of the first task, the first IM is determined to include key word(s) indicating that the first task is completed. An IM-based second query requesting a status of the second task is sent. After receiving a second IM that responds to the second query, the second IM is determined to include the key word(s) indicating that the second task is completed.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an attenuated, recombinant viral vaccine against yellow fever which expresses heterologous sequences of a lentivirus and is used as an immunisation agent to induce an immune response to lentivirus.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions, kits, and methods related to HIV vaccines and immunogenic compositions. Typically, the compositions include a mixture of individual and separate DNA polynucleotides that encode different HIV polypeptides or fragments thereof. The mixture of polynucleotides is designed to elicit a broad immunogenic response which may be subsequently boosted by administering a second composition such as a recombinant virus vector composition. The compositions, kits, and methods may be utilized for treating or preventing HIV infection or disease.

Abstract: A method and system for using an instant messaging system to gather information for a backend process. A query for information accessible by a client of a plurality of clients is automatically generated by the backend process. The backend process is separate from the plurality of clients and from an instant message server that provides an IM service to the plurality of clients. The query is sent from the backend process to the client via the IM server. In real-time via the IM server, the backend process receives a response to the query from the client. The response is either (1) the requested information, which is placed in the response by an end user using the client or by an automated software agent residing on the client, or (2) a notification that indicates that the end user is unavailable to provide the requested information.

Abstract: This invention relates to a method and device for drying cells for long-term storage by placing a preparation containing the micro-organisms into a re-sealable strip device which houses dry, water absorbent material and at least one protective substance, whereby the volume of the microorganism preparation and the amount and type of the drying preparation are chosen such that after the addition of the preparation of the micro-organisms the water absorbent preparation is able to absorb the water contained in the added sample and remain substantially dry, in so doing rendering the micro-organisms substantially dry.