Abstract: Described herein are nucleic acid detection compositions and systems comprising an internal nuclease chain reaction (NCR) for signal amplification and methods of using these NCR-containing compositions and systems.

Abstract: Disclosed are novel fused heterocyclic mescaline derivative compounds, notably fused heterocyclic mescaline derivatives and pharmaceutical and recreational drug formulations containing the same. Methods of making and using these compounds are also disclosed.

Abstract: A vaporizer device includes various modular components. The vaporizer device includes a first subassembly. The first subassembly includes a cartridge connector that secures a vaporizer cartridge to the vaporizer device and includes at least two receptacle contacts that electrically communicate with the vaporizer cartridge. The vaporizer device includes a second subassembly. The second subassembly includes a skeleton defining a rigid tray that retains at least a power source. The vaporizer device also includes a third subassembly. The third subassembly includes a plurality of charging contacts that supply power to the power source, and an end cap that encloses an end of the vaporizer device.

Abstract: Medical devices as well as methods for making and using medical devices are disclosed. An example medical device may include a steerable crossing catheter system. The steerable crossing catheter system may include an elongate catheter shaft having a proximal end region, a steerable distal end region, and a lumen extending therethrough. A core may be disposed within the lumen. The core may have a distal end. A penetrating member may be coupled to the distal end. A sensing assembly may be disposed adjacent to the distal end. The sensing assembly may be configured to estimate the location of the core within a body lumen.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of performing a funds transaction that includes providing the option to perform the transaction using dynamic currency conversion and apparatus for performing dynamic currency conversion. The method may include identifying whether a transaction is eligible for dynamic currency conversion and if so allowing an operator to enter a nominated currency and subsequently conducting the transaction in the nominated currency. Otherwise the transaction may be performed in a default currency.

Abstract: Topical and other type formulations are provided in the form of creams, lotions, ointments, injectables, and drops which contain a pharmaceutical, such as a steroid, dissolved in an isosorbide solvent system.

Abstract: Steroid ointment formulations of the solution and biphasic types which are used as topical anti-inflammatory agents are provided wherein the steroid, such as 21-chloro-9.alpha.-fluoro-.DELTA..sup.4 -pregnene-11.beta.,16.alpha.,17.alpha.-triol-3,20-dione 16,17-acetonide, is at least partially dissolved in a ricinoleate vehicle such as castor oil.

Abstract: Steroid formulations in the form of creams or lotions which are used as topical anti-inflammatory agents are provided wherein the steroid, such as 21-chloro-9.alpha.-fluoro-.DELTA..sup.4 -pregnene-11.beta.,16.alpha.,17.alpha.-triol-3,20-dione 16,17-acetonide, is at least partially dissolved in a ricinoleate vehicle such as castor oil.

Abstract: On contacting a moist aqueous surface, a fine particle size hydrocolloid suspended in a non-aqueous water-immiscible mobile liquid attaches itself through rapid hydration to the moist surface. Drainage of the mobile liquid leaves a coating of the particles of the hydrocolloid on the surface. If a radiopaque agent or a medicinal agent is co-suspended with the hydrocolloid, a uniform thin layer of the agent will be carried by the particles of hydrated hydrocolloid onto the moist surface.

Abstract: Bandage which can be applied to the skin in place of the normal surgical dressings comprising an adhesive layer, a layer of flexible semi-open cell polymeric foam, and an outer water impervious flexible polymeric film coating.

Abstract: Stomal devices having controlled release so that disposable stoma bags can be easily replaced without disturbing the peristomal covering attached to the skin. One such device comprises a peristomal covering including an adhesive member and backing member formed of polymeric material having a geometric pattern embossed therein. Another embodiment comprises attaching such embossed polymeric material directly to the adhesive face plate of a disposable stoma bag. Another embodiment comprises forming the stoma bag from the flexible embossed polymeric material which can serve as the backing member.