Abstract: Described is a disposable valve that includes an actuation layer operationally linked to a flexible diaphragm; a valving layer operationally linked to the flexible diaphragm; and a connection layer operationally connected to the valving layer; wherein the valving layer and the connection layer have a corresponding plurality of channels passing therethrough, and the channels define at least one fluid flow path, and the flexible diaphragm is movable between a first open position wherein fluid can flow through the fluid flow path, and a second closed position wherein fluid cannot flow through the fluid flow path. Chromatographic systems incorporating a plurality of such valves, optionally integrated into a unitary valve block, are also described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the purification and production of human albumin from various sources through crystallization and repeated crystallization. Basic features of the invented process include providing specific reaction conditions and precipitating reagents to maximize albumin crystallization. Solubility diagrams are utilized as the basis for process control of the invented method. The current invention specifically controls phosphate concentration, pH and temperature to precisely guide crystallization kinetics and crystal yield.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an improved system for efficiently and accurately performing immunoassays, such as ELISAs. The invention provides an immunoassay assembly which includes a flow-through unit and an aspiration pump. The immunoassay flow-through unit includes an outer seal; at least one bed support; an inner seal; and a packed non-porous bed. The unit is releasably attached to an aspiration pump which enables the controlled flow rate of liquid passing through the packed bed of the flow-through unit. The invention also provides a method of using the immunoassay assembly to identify analytical targets of interest.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are methods for purifying immunoglobulin G (IgG). The methods feature the use of particular buffers and reagents to isolate and purify human IgG or to remove host contaminating proteins, non-human or chimeric IgG, IgG dimers, IgG aggregates, bovine serum albumin, transmissible spongiform encephalopathy, DNA, viral DNA, or viral particles from a feedstock. IgG purified by the methods described herein can be used for research, diagnostic, or therapeutic purposes.

Abstract: A lift-type axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle includes ride air springs for providing vehicle load support when the system is lowered, and one or more lift air springs for selectively raising the system when such additional load support is unnecessary or when greater vehicle maneuverability is desired. An apparatus integrates and simultaneously controls the operating systems for the lift and ride air springs. The control apparatus includes a plurality of conduits and valves which enable pressurized air from the lift air springs to be rapidly provided to the ride air springs when the system is being lowered. The additional air supplements the normal source of air from the vehicle compressed air source to ensure sufficient and timely air for smooth and efficient operation of the ride air springs without excessive buckling or folding, thus maintaining adequate overall vehicle air pressure needed for operating other vehicle components.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for the production and purification of target molecules present in biological systems. The systems and methods according to the invention utilize transgenic expression of multivalent binding polypeptides, as affinity media, to purify such target molecules. The transgenic multivalent binding polypeptides bind both the target molecules, e.g., a bindable epitope of a target molecule, and a matrix.

Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for the production and purification of target molecules present in biological systems. The systems and methods according to the invention utilize transgenic expression of multivalent binding polypeptides, as affinity media, to purify such target molecules. The transgenic multivalent binding polypeptides bind both the target molecules, e.g., a bindable epitope of a target molecule, and a matrix.

Abstract: A lift-type axle/suspension system of a heavy-duty vehicle includes ride air springs for providing vehicle load support when the system is lowered, and one or more lift air springs for selectively raising the system when such additional load support is unnecessary or when greater vehicle maneuverability is desired. An apparatus integrates and simultaneously controls the operating systems for the lift and ride air springs. The control apparatus includes a plurality of conduits and valves which enable pressurized air from the lift air springs to be rapidly provided to the ride air springs when the system is being lowered. The additional air supplements the normal source of air from the vehicle compressed air source to ensure sufficient and timely air for smooth and efficient operation of the ride air springs without excessive buckling or folding, thus maintaining adequate overall vehicle air pressure needed for operating other vehicle components.

Abstract: The invention features methods of purifying human serum albumin (hSA) from endogenous serum albumin of the host cell producing the hSA. The methods include providing a sample comprising hSA and serum albumin of the host cell, applying the sample to an affinity column that binds hSA at a higher affinity than the serum albumin of the host cell, eluting bound hSA from the affinity column, and crystallizing the eluted has. The invention also features compositions comprising hSA produced by the methods of the invention.

Abstract: A multiple use packaging and shipping container for plants includes two opposed vertical side trays separated by a horizontal floor. Flats of bedding plants placed on the horizontal floor extend into the two opposed vertical side trays, which hold the flats and prevent them from moving. The opposed vertical side trays will support several additional shipping and display containers, allowing them to be stacked, one on top of another, without crushing or damaging the plants. The sides may also include vertical top tabs and bottom slots for aligning and holding the shipping and display containers in position when they stacked one on top of the other. Once delivered, these containers may be displayed in the stacked configuration, or may be unstacked. Each side tray of the container may be separated from the floor and reconfigured into a customer carry-out tray.

Abstract: Compound comprising agarose covalently bonded to amino phenyl boronic acid through a substituted triazine and an intermediate compound comprising substituted triazine bonded to amino phenyl boronic acid.

Abstract: Compound comprising agarose covalently bonded to amino phenyl boronic acid through a substituted triazine and an intermediate compound comprising substituted triazine bonded to amino phenyl boronic acid.