Abstract: A simplified approach to sharing and exchanging geographic-based information containing the maps and corresponding data and metadata was developed to enable easy sharing of information for decision support tools. Current Geographical Information Systems (GIS) technologies are limited in their ability to share maps and data in the exact format that the user created the information. This technology shares the corresponding data with the map information (not just a ‘picture’ of the data—e.g., a static map) in the exact form that the user wants to provide to other users of the software application. The technology and use of this software application provides the unique ability for users to share the information directly with other users of the software, eliminating process and setup of importing new information into the spatial decision-support software.

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for performing binding assays. In particular, the invention relates to a centrifugal device for performing such assays. The invention also relates to a method of performing binding assays involving antigen-antibody binding, nucleic acid hybridization, or receptor-ligand interaction.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the amplification of DNA and apparatus for such amplification. The method comprises steps typically found in amplification methods but utilises an optical procedure to detect denaturation of DNA or attainment of the desired denaturation temperature. The apparatus (1) comprises a temperature controllable chamber (2) including a rotor (3) for holding a plurality of reaction vessels (see 7 for example) for reaction mixtures including DNA, a drive means for the rotor, a heater (8) within the chamber for transiently supplying infrared energy to the reaction vessels, and an optical system (12-16) for determining denaturation of at least a reference DNA or for detecting attainment of a desired denaturation temperature in at least a reference reaction vessel.

Abstract: The present invention provides a thermal cycling device including: a heat exchanger body (3) having a longitudinal axis and longitudinally divided to provide at least two segments which are able to be heated to different temperatures so that said body has peripheral surfaces of different temperatures; a conduit (2) extending about said body so as to be in thermal contact with said peripheral surfaces; a first delivery device to deliver a first fluid to said conduit to cause said fluid to pass therealong and therefore change in temperature as the fluid passes said segments; and a second delivery device to deliver a second fluid to said conduit so as to flow with said first liquid and therefore also change in temperature. The fluid then leaves the device by conduit (4).

Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the amplification of DNA in a reaction mixture, the device (1) comprising a heated chamber (2) including a rotor (3) for holding a plurality of reaction vessels for reaction mixtures, a drive means for the rotor, a microwave energy source (8) with means for controlled delivery of said energy to the reaction mixtures, and a system (14-16) for determining denaturation of double-stranded DNA. The invention also provides a method for the amplification of a nucleic acid strand. In the first step of the method, a reaction mixture is formed comprising the target nucleic acid strand, nucleotides, a primer, a thermostable nucleic acid polymerase, and, if necessary, a reagent for the detection of denaturation of double-stranded DNA. In the second step, the mixture is incubated at a temperature which allows synthesis of a nucleic acid strand complementary to the target nucleic acid strand.

Abstract: An isolated polypeptide corresponding to the epitope of porcine somatotropin is provided by this invention as well as methods of enhancing the growth of an animal by administering to the animal this polypeptide in compositions.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting nitric oxide formation in a warm blooded mammal afflicted with an acute or chronic inflammatory disease which comprises administering to said mammal an effective nitric oxide inhibitory amount of methyl-, or 1,1-dimethyl-, or amino-substituted guanidines.

Abstract: A method for the treating an individual afflicted with a disease condition mediated by IL-1 bioactivity is disclosed. The method comprises administering an effective amount of the NOS inhibitor, aminoguanidine, to an individual.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting nitric oxide formation in a warm blooded mammal afflicted with inflammatory bowel disease which comprises administering to said mammal an effective nitric oxide inhibitory amount of aminoguanidine.

Abstract: Immunoglobulin G-2 (IgG2), e g. bovine IgG2, and its reaction with neutrophils can be used to enhance the neutrophil's functional status in host animal defense against bacterial infections.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting nitric oxide formation in a warm blooded mammal afflicted with an acute or chronic inflammatory disease which comprises administering to said mammal an effective nitric oxide inhibitory amount of methyl-, or 1,1-dimethyl-, or amino-substituted guanidines.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting nitric oxide formation in a warm blooded mammal which comprises administering to said mammal an effective nitric oxide inhibitory amount of methylguanidine or dimethylguanidine.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting nitric oxide formation in a warm blooded mammal which comprises administering to said mammal an effective nitric oxide inhibitory amount of aminoguanidine.

Abstract: A lockstitch sewing machine has a needle (22) and awl (24) mounted on a common pivot (52) and actuated each by a crank mechanism (40;72), the two mechanisms being mounted on a common crank shaft (38). Each mechanism is constituted by a bell crank lever (44;76); the two levers also being mounted on a common pivot (46). This latter pivot (46) is disposed intermediate the pivot (52) for the needle and awl and the crank shaft (38).

Abstract: An improved fluid actuated double action pullgun for installing blind rivets, particularly of the lock spindle type, which includes an improved shift valve mechanism. The shift valve employes a ballseat relief valve associated with pressure responsive plunger mechanism and spring responsive ball guide mechanism which respond to pressure differentials to directly monitor pressure in the trapped oil circuit and restrain "shift piston" motion prior to shift. Premature "shift piston" travel, which is a malfunction, is eliminated.