Abstract: The present invention concerns a system for isolating, depleting, and/or preventing the amplification of a targeted nucleic acid, such as mRNA or rRNA, from a sample comprising targeted and nontargeted nucleic acids.

Abstract: An information object configured for automatic authentication of information contained therein includes an information segment to be authenticated, an authenticator address corresponding to a predetermined authenticator, and a set of instructions for establishing a communications link between the information object and the predetermined authenticator using the authenticator address, transmitting an authentication request to the predetermined authenticator, and receiving a responsive communication from the predetermined authenticator for authenticating the information segment.

Abstract: The present case discloses a signal or flag assembly for use with a mailbox having a front door hinged at the lower portion thereof and comprising a body portion having sidewalls, said signal assembly comprising a flag or signal having a signal standard or support bent intermediate its ends to provide a signal carrying portion or arm and an attaching arm portion extending at an angle thereto, and pivot means for securing the attaching arm portion to one side of the mailbox. The attaching arm portion of the standard includes a pawl portion at its outer end for releasable latching connection with a signal latching member carried by said mailbox door.

Abstract: A roadside mailbox is adapted to be opened and closed by movement of a mail service vehicle past it. The box has a door hinged along its bottom edge to the bottom of the mailbox. A lever arm, which is made of spring wire, projects outwardly from the door and is engageable by a slanted actuating rod mounted on the vehicle. As the vehicle approaches the box, engagement of the actuating rod with the arm opens the mailbox. As the vehicle leaves the box, the rod becomes disengaged from the arm and the door is closed by a spring. The lever arm resists bending in a vertical plane, and has substantially greater flexibility to bend in a horizontal plane toward and away from the mailbox. The actuating rod includes telescoping sections and may be quickly detached from its support on the side of the vehicle. A signal flag on the box, if raised is automatically lowered by opening the door. The signal flag may also be manually raised and lowered even with the door closed.