Abstract: The present invention relates in part to devices, systems, and methods for the production and characterization of engineered tissue constructs. The devices and methods generate decellularized tissue constructs that can be recellularized using donor cells for high-throughput studies of organ physiology, and/or organ pathology. The devices and methods can be used with the systems to mechanically and electrically stimulate the engineered tissue constructs under culture or physiological conditions to detect and assess the presence and degree of any organ pathologies.

Abstract: The present invention relates in part to devices, systems, and methods for the production and characterization of engineered tissue constructs. The devices and methods generate decellularized tissue constructs that can be recellularized using donor cells for high-throughput studies of organ physiology, and/or organ pathology. The devices and methods can be used with the systems to mechanically and electrically stimulate the engineered tissue constructs under culture or physiological conditions to detect and assess the presence and degree of any organ pathologies.

Abstract: This document provides methods and compositions suitable for treating eosinophilic esophogitis. For example, this document provides methods that involve administering a steroid and mucoadherent to a mammal (e.g., a human). Kits comprising compositions containing a steroid in combination with a mucoadherent also are provided.

Abstract: The present invention provides polynucleotides and polypeptides capable of enhancing the immune response of a human in need of protection against influenza virus infection by administering in vivo, into a tissue of the human, at least one polynucleotide comprising one or more regions of nucleic acid encoding an influenza protein or a fragment, variant, or derivative thereof, or at least one polypeptide encoded therefrom. The present invention also relates to identifying and preparing influenza virus epitopes and to polynucleotides and polypeptides comprising such influenza virus epitopes. The present invention also relates to compositions and methods of use in the prevention and treatment of influenza virus infection.

Abstract: This invention provides HLA-DR binding peptides, called “pan DR binding peptides” that are recognized by a broad spectrum of DR molecules. In particular, the present invention provides compositions comprising nucleic acid segments that encode such pan DR binding peptides, which are useful for enhancing the immune response to a desired immunogen.

Abstract: Pollutant emissions produced in the manufacture of asphaltic roofing are controlled by the use of electrified bed filters. Filter bed granules coated with pollutants are removed from the beds periodically and are used in the manufacture of the roofing. A prefilter is employed to remove varnishing pollutant components in the supermicron size range to prevent fouling of an electrical charger.