Abstract: Disclosed are recombinant bacteriophage constructs and related exogenous peptide sequences for generating immune responses against CD47. The disclosed recombinant phage constructs bind to antibodies against CD47 and can be administered to an animal to generate an immune response against CD47, including generating anti-CD47 antibodies. The disclosed recombinant phage may comprise an amino acid sequence of CD47, epitopic fragments, variants, or functional mimics thereof. Also disclosed are methods for making and selecting such recombinant phage constructs and compositions that comprise such constructs (e.g., compositions for inducing an immune response against CD47 including pharmaceutical or veterinary compositions used as vaccines). Also disclosed are recombinant polynucleotides comprising genomic nucleic acid of the recombinant phage constructs disclosed herein.

Abstract: Disclosed are recombinant bacteriophage constructs and related exogenous peptide sequences for generating immune responses against CD47. The disclosed recombinant phage constructs bind to antibodies against CD47 and can be administered to an animal to generate an immune response against CD47, including generating anti-CD47 antibodies. The disclosed recombinant phage may comprise an amino acid sequence of CD47, epitopic fragments, variants, or functional mimics thereof. Also disclosed are methods for making and selecting such recombinant phage constructs and compositions that comprise such constructs (e.g., compositions for inducing an immune response against CD47 including pharmaceutical or veterinary compositions used as vaccines). Also disclosed are recombinant polynucleotides comprising genomic nucleic acid of the recombinant phage constructs disclosed herein.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for repeatably and accurately measuring the threshold sensitivity of the skin on a body part or surface such as the plantar surface of the foot. The machine uses a monofilament pressure test, where a monofilament is applied to the surface of the skin until it buckles at a corresponding force. The device may measure a broad range of pressures and responsive sensation in the patient using multiple applications of the monofilament. The patient indicates a positive or negative response, based on whether the patient sensed the monofilament pressure. The machine may include a foot clamping assembly, a support chassis, a linear motion translation assembly for locating the monofilament at a given position for testing, and a camera for taking images used to identify testing locations and report results. Methods of use and testing protocols are also described herein.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a device for repeatably and accurately measuring the threshold sensitivity of the skin on a body part or surface such as the plantar surface of the foot. The machine uses a monofilament pressure test, where a monofilament is applied to the surface of the skin until it buckles at a corresponding force. The device may measure a broad range of pressures and responsive sensation in the patient using multiple applications of the monofilament. The patient indicates a positive or negative response, based on whether the patient sensed the monofilament pressure. The machine may include a foot clamping assembly, a support chassis, a linear motion translation assembly for locating the monofilament at a given position for testing, and a camera for taking images used to identify testing locations and report results. Methods of use and testing protocols are also described herein.

Abstract: Disclosed are recombinant bacteriophage constructs and related exogenous peptide sequences for generating immune responses against CD47. The disclosed recombinant phage constructs bind to antibodies against CD47 and can be administered to an animal to generate an immune response against CD47, including generating anti-CD47 antibodies. The disclosed recombinant phage may comprise an amino acid sequence of CD47, epitopic fragments, variants, or functional mimics thereof. Also disclosed are methods for making and selecting such recombinant phage constructs and compositions that comprise such constructs (e.g., compositions for inducing an immune response against CD47 including pharmaceutical or veterinary compositions used as vaccines). Also disclosed are recombinant polynucleotides comprising genomic nucleic acid of the recombinant phage constructs disclosed herein.

Abstract: Methods of and apparatuses for equine plasma collection are provided. Modified plasmapheresis instruments and modified disposable plasmapheresis tubing are introduced. By using the modified procedures and instruments, a high-speed, high volume, continuous-flow process of automated equine plasmapheresis is developed. The modified closed systems remove whole blood from the donor horses, separate plasma from the cellular components of blood, and simultaneously returning concentrated cells back to the donor horses.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions and methods for treating a subject infected with Bacillus anthracis or at risk for infection with B. anthracis. The compositions include and the methods utilize isolated or purified equine antisera against B. anthracis.

Abstract: A system and method for passive collection of oil from water based on a density differential. A sealed column of water is elevated above the oil/water surface within a low pressure contained volume, and oil moves upward into the contained volume displacing the water due to the lower density of the oil. Filled containers of oil are exchanged for containers of water, or oil is transferred from the filled containers.

Abstract: Disclosed are compositions and methods for treating a subject infected with Bacillus anthracis or at risk for infection with B. anthracis. The compositions include and the methods utilize isolated or purified equine antisera against B. anthracis.