Abstract: The invention relates to improved genetic elements providing high levels of expression of operably-linked genes in a variety of tissues. In particular, fragments of unmethylated, CpG islands of less than 2 kb are shown to provide enhanced transgene expression and have advantages in terms of vector construction and cloning capacity.

Abstract: The invention relates to improved genetic elements providing high levels of expression of operably-linked genes in a variety of tissues. In particular, fragments of unmethylated, CpG islands of less than 2 kb are shown to provide enhanced transgene expression and have advantages in terms of vector construction and cloning capacity.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a polynucleotide comprising a ubiquitous chromatin opening element (UCOE) that does not occur in nature. The present invention also relates to a vector comprising the polynucleotide sequence, a host cell comprising the vector and use of the polynucleotide, vector or host cell in therapy, or for in vitro protein expression applications.

Abstract: A system is described which utilizes a novel system of repressor titration for maintenance of a plasmid useful in gene therapy and production of a recombinant protein. The system utilizes a transformed host cell containing a plasmid including an operator susceptible to binding by a repressor expressed in trans, a first chromosomal gene encoding the repressor, and a second chromosomal gene that is functionally associated with an operator and essential for cell growth, wherein the plasmid is present in the cell in sufficient numbers to titrate the repressor such that the essential gene is expressed, thereby permitting cell growth.

Abstract: A kit for playing a construction/deconstruction game is described, and includes a plurality of flat planar cards and a plurality of v-shaped articulated cards from which a deconstructable structure can be erected. A plurality of spherical objects, such as marbles, adapted to be fired against the structure, is also provided. A ball retaining wall, adapted to at least partially encircle the structure may also be provided.

Abstract: A kit for playing a construction/deconstruction game is described, and includes a plurality of flat planar cards and a plurality of v-shaped articulated cards from which a deconstructable structure can be erected. A plurality of spherical objects, such as marbles, adapted to be fired against the structure, is also provided.

Abstract: A three-tank carpet spot cleaning device having a cleaning fluid tank, a rinse water tank, and a recovery tank. In use, a user uses cleaning fluid to spot treat the spot, and then is able to rinse all residue of the cleaning fluid from the carpet using the rinse water.

Abstract: A system is described which utilizes a novel system of repressor titration for maintenance of a plasmid useful in gene therapy and production of a recombinant protein. The system utilizes a transformed host cell containing a plasmid including an operator susceptible to binding by a repressor expressed in trans, a first chromosomal gene encoding the repressor, and a second chromosomal gene that is functionally associated with an operator and essential for cell growth, wherein the plasmid is present in the cell in sufficient numbers to titrate the repressor such that the essential gene is expressed, thereby permitting cell growth.