Abstract: Linear arrays of chemosensors or chemical compounds are supported by an optical fiber that allows one to rapidly assay the entire array using changes in optical properties such as fluorescence. The location of the agent along the fiber determines the identity of the agent in these linear arrays. Combinatorial libraries may be constructed on the fiber as well as assayed on the optical fiber. A system and method of analyzing the entire array of agents on an optical fiber using a light source, an optical fiber, and a detector are also described. The time delay between the excitation and detection determines the location being assayed along the fiber and therefore the identity of the agent being assayed. The present invention may find uses in the medical, pharmaceutical, environmental, defense, and food industries.

Abstract: A method for the solid-phase synthesis of combinatorial libraries on a one-dimensional support, such as a thread, is provided. The method involves the cyclic permutation of structural features along the thread, in such a way that different structural features are repeated at a characteristic fixed frequencies along the thread. The thread is processed so as to generate a signal proportional to the activity of the compounds in the library, and the thread is then assayed by being drawn through an appropriate detector. The resulting time-domain signal is processed by Fourier transformation. Spikes in the frequency domain of the processed signal indicate the frequency at which structural features that contribute to the activity were created on the thread.

Abstract: A composition is disclosed for a biodegradable, blendable plastic having improved tensile strength. It consists of starch, oxidized polyethylene, and polyethylene. The starch is included in an amount up to 50% by weight, the oxidized polyethylene up to 15% by weight, and the remaining amount is polyethylene. It is preferred that high molecular weight oxidized polyethylene be used and in the method of producing the composition, it is preferred that the blending of the components occur at a temperature range of 110.degree. C. to 200.degree. C.