Abstract: A retractor has an oximeter sensor at its tip, which allows measuring of oxygen saturation of a tissue being retracted by the retractor. The tip includes one or more openings for at least one source and detector. A specific implementation is a spinal nerve root retractor with an oximeter sensor.

Abstract: A retractor has an oximeter sensor at its tip, which allows measuring of oxygen saturation of a tissue being retracted by the retractor. The tip includes one or more openings for at least one source and detector. A specific implementation is a spinal nerve root retractor with an oximeter sensor.

Abstract: Methods and compounds are provided for detecting target molecules in a sample using specific binding assays. In particular, methods are provided for detecting a nucleic acid target in a sample. In one embodiment, the presently claimed invention provides a method of labeling a hybridized target wherein the target comprises a binding ligand. In another embodiment, the presently claimed invention provides methods of signal amplification.

Abstract: Methods for amplifying genomic DNA and genotyping amplified genomic DNA samples are provided. The genotyping methods use genotyping arrays of probes that are allele specific probes for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The methods also relate to methods for amplifying a plurality of genomic DNA samples from a plurality of individuals in a manner that minimizes the potential for contamination of samples that have not been amplified by amplicons from samples that have already been amplified.

Abstract: A support and watering system for a plant pot in which a support module is formed by a strip of plastic material having panels which are folded relative to each other so that the end panels interlock and form a generally triangular support module. The lower set of panels edges rest on the bottom of a container for holding water. A capillary wick is inserted into the bottom of the plant pot which rests on the top edges of the module panels, with the wick extending into the container and the plant is watered by capillary action. A plurality of the modules can be interlocked to increase the size of the support.

Abstract: A combined capillary mat and platform formed of a bottom piece of material having individual air cells which rest on a base to provide a platform and a sheet of mat material attached to the top of the first piece for providing capillary action. The combined mat and platform are preferably made by melting particles or granules of material on a surface of the mat which is thereafter bonded under pressure to the top surface of the bottom piece.

Abstract: A plant watering system including a tray having a platform thereon in which a water absorbent mat is located. The mat extends into the tray in which water is located and water is absorbed from the tray into the mat by capillary action. The plants are located on the mat and are provided with water directly to the plant bottom and water is available to provide humidity to the leaves. A stackable arrangement is provided so that one tray can be stacked on top of another one.