Abstract: Disclosed herein are molecules that include a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) covalently bonded to a protein and uses thereof.

Abstract: This invention related to methods useful in the labeling of multiple polypeptide samples and subsequent analysis of these samples by mass spectrometry, particularly in the high throughput proteomic setting.

Abstract: Thin film thermal oxidative engine oil or other oleaginous liquid deposit device has an oleaginous test liquid placement volume; a heatable depositor surface in liquid communication with the volume; a supply for at least one of an oxidant and another substance which can adversely affect the test liquid; and a relatively thin film forming unit which delivers the test liquid to the depositor surface in a relatively thin film. Thin film thermal oxidative engine oil or other oleaginous fluid deposit method is also provided, which includes providing an oleaginous test liquid in an oleaginous test liquid placement volume; providing a depositor surface and heating said surface; delivering the test liquid as a relatively thin film to the heated depositor surface; providing to the test liquid an oxidizing and/or other substance which can adversely affect the test liquid; and observing any deposits or other activity thereabout. The invention is useful in oil testing.

Abstract: The present invention provides novel isolated NOVX polynucleotides and polypeptides encoded by the NOVX polynucleotides. Also provided are the antibodies that immunospecifically bind to a NOVX polypeptide or any derivative, variant, mutant or fragment of the NOVX polypeptide, polynucleotide, or antibody. The invention additionally provides methods in which the NOVX polypeptide, polynucleotide, and antibody are utilized in the detection and treatment of a broad range of pathological states, as well as to other uses.

Abstract: The present invention concerns a G-coupled receptor which has an amino acid sequence having more than 50% homology with the amino acid sequence shown in FIG. 1.

Abstract: Compositions and methods for the therapy and diagnosis of cancer, such as ovarian cancer, are disclosed. Compositions may comprise one or more ovarian tumor proteins, immunogenic portions thereof, or polynucleotides that encode such portions. Alternatively, a therapeutic composition may comprise an antigen presenting cell that expresses an ovarian tumor protein, or a T cell that is specific for cells expressing such a protein. Such compositions may be used, for example, for the prevention and treatment of diseases such as ovarian cancer. Diagnostic methods based on detecting an ovarian tumor protein, or mRNA encoding such a protein, in a sample are also provided.

Abstract: A method for separating and collecting nucleic acids, which comprises:

Abstract: A method for the detection and analysis of genetic polymorphisms using arrays that do not require labeling of a target nucleic acid sequence. Hybridization of a perfectly complementary nucleic acid target sequence to an oligonucleotide probe sequence results in a displacement and complete removal of a hybridized probe sequence from the same oligonucleotide probe sequence by means of a thermo-kinetic reaction. The removal of the hybridized probe sequence, having a quencher element, increases the intensity of emission by an emitter element on the oligonucleotide probe sequence.

Abstract: Antisense compounds, compositions and methods are provided for modulating the expression of Survivin. The compositions comprise antisense compounds, particularly antisense oligonucleotides, targeted to nucleic acids encoding Survivin. Methods of using these compounds for modulation of Survivin expression and for treatment of diseases associated with expression of Survivin are provided.

Abstract: An optical detection system. The optical detection system includes an integrated circuit, photosensors, a passivation layer formed above the photosensors, and test sites formed on the passivation layer. The test sites include test probes of organic material that are able to bind with target organic molecules. The combination of the test probes and target organic molecules can be activated such that light is given off from the test sites in proportion to the concentration of target molecules. Light given off from the test sites is detected by the photosensors that are present below the passivation layer. The photosensors generate electronic signals in proportion to the amount of light received from the test sites. The electronic signals are then transmitted from the photosensors to the integrated circuit for signal processing. Signal processing within the integrated circuit can enhance the quality of the electronic signals generated by the photosensors.

Abstract: A method of improving amplification of nucleic acids using a nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (“NASBA”) method is provided wherein target nucleic acids and NASBA primers are electronically addressed to electronically addressable capture sites of a microchip. This improvement uses electronically induced hybridization of the target nucleic acids to the primers. The primers may be solution-based or immobilized on the capture sites of the microchip.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method for simplifying and significantly enhancing the sensitivity of nucleic acid hybridization assays. A method is described whereby a single-stranded primary nucleic acid sequence that includes a region of sequences complementary to a single-stranded target nucleic acid sequence is hybridized to the target molecule. Stability of the double-stranded complex thereby formed can be enhanced by using RNA as the probe if DNA is the target or DNA as the probe if RNA is the target. The probe-target complex is subsequently immunocaptured for detection. After washing away extraneous material, a secondary nucleic acid sequence containing many repeating sequence units is hybridized to the probe component of the immobilized probe-target complex. Detection occurs following hybridization of many labelled nucleic acid sequence probes to each of the repeating sequence units of a nucleic acid amplification probe.

Abstract: A method for determining corrosiveness of naphthenic acid in a fluid includes the steps of: providing a fluid containing naphthenic acid; providing iron powder having a surface area of at least about 0.01 m2/g; contacting the fluid and the powder for a period of time so as to provide a portion of the iron as dissolved iron dissolved in the fluid; and measuring iron concentration of the fluid containing the dissolved iron, so as to provide a measure of corrosion potential of the naphthenic acid over the period of time.

Abstract: The present invention provides an alternative PCR amplification which does not draw upon the use of thermostable DNA polymerases. It provides means for the controlled manipulation of denaturing conditions which do not demand the use of high denaturing temperature. More particularly, it provides means for the controlled oscillation of divalent metal ions, preferably of divalent metal ions such as Cu2+, Zn2+, Mn2+ and Cd2+, which are known to destabilize the DNA helix and thereby decrease the melting temperature of the DNA helix. The invention also provides methods for the automatization of this process. For instance, by means of cathodic reduction of the divalent metal species the concentration can be decreased to levels that allows for reannealing of separated sands with the primers; while oxidation of deposited metals or oxidation of monovalent metal ions, can restore the initially high concentration that allows for separation of both strands that make up the DNA helix.

Abstract: A method and metal test pattern for monitoring metal corrosion susceptibility for integrated circuit wafers. Test patterns having an array of metal circles to simulate contact regions, an array of metal strips to simulate electrode regions, and a blanket metal layer to simulate bulk metal regions are formed. A first number of defects per unit area for the test patterns is measured, using a defect scan system. The test pattern wafers are then subjected to environmental stress conditions for a first time and a second number of defects per unit area for the test patterns is measured, again using a defect scan system. The difference between the second number and the first number is compared with a critical number. If excessive corrosion occurs the process for producing wafers is corrected before continuing to process product wafers.

Abstract: A method measuring a rate of fouling caused by a heat flux through the surface subjected to electrochemical polarization. The method includes the steps of: providing a piezoelectric microbalance comprising a piezoelectric material with electrodes disposed thereon; exposing the working electrode of the microbalance to a flowing liquid, the liquid containing at least one fouling forming species; maintaining the liquid at a constant first temperature; maintaining the liquid at required hydrodynamic conditions; applying either a constant heat flux through the microbalance resulting in its working electrode having a variable second temperature or applying a variable heat flux through the microbalance resulting in its working electrode having a constant second temperature; and measuring a rate of fouling on the microbalance surface.

Abstract: The invention relates to the study and the manufacture of lubricants used in particular in diesel engines. According to the invention, the neutralization capacity of a lubricant comprising detergent additives is determined by a method which consists in reacting, in a leaktight tank, at a constant temperature, the bases contributed by the additives present in a lubricant film of known mass with a predetermined amount of a liquid acid and in recording, as a function of the time, the values of the pressure within the leaktight tank, and in then determining, from the recorded values of the pressure, at lest one of the following three characterizing parameters: an initiation period for the reaction, a neutralization potential and a reaction rate. The invention finds its application in research and control laboratories of manufacturers of lubricants and in those of engine manufacturers.

Abstract: The present invention relates to isolated polypeptides having phytase activity and isolated nucleic acid sequences encoding the polypeptides. The invention also relates to nucleic acid constructs, vectors, and host cells comprising the nucleic acid sequences as well as methods for producing the polypeptides. The present invention further relates to composite feeds and methods of reducing phytate levels.

Abstract: A semiconductor nanocrystal compound is described which is capable of linking to one or more affinity molecules. The compound comprises (1) one or more semiconductor nanocrystals capable of, in response to exposure to a first energy, providing a second energy, and (2) one or more linking agents, having a first portion linked to the one or more semiconductor nanocrystals and a second portion capable of linking to one or more affinity molecules. One or more of these semiconductor nanocrystal compounds are linked to one or more affinity molecules to form a semiconductor nanocrystal probe capable of bonding with one or more detectable substances in a material being analyzed, and capable of, in response to exposure to a first energy, providing a second energy.

Abstract: This invention is thus related to a biospecific multiparameter assay employing single molecule detection. In particular, this invention is related to a new method for determination of several different biomolecules simultaneously in the same reaction solution. The method uses a fluorescent label for labelling biospecific primary probes and a combination of other labels, bound to secondary probes. Complexes are formed comprising primary probes, analyte molecules and secondary probes in the biospecific reaction. These single molecule complexes are counted selectively while discriminating the signals from other fluorescent molecules using confocal fluorometry or two-photon excitation fluorometry including an auto- and cross-correlator for the signals obtained from said fluorescent labels.

Abstract: A new method for DNA diagnostics based on template-directed primer extension and detection by fluorescence polarization is described. In this method, amplified genomic DNA fragments containing polymorphic sites are incubated with a oligonucleotide primer designed to hybridize to the DNA template adjacent to the polymorphic site in the presence of allelic dye-labeled dideoxyribonucleoside triphosphates and a modified Taq DNA polymerase. The primer is extended by the dye-terminator specific for the allele present on the template. At the end of the reaction, the fluorescence polarization of the two dye-terminators in the reaction mixture are analyzed directly without separation or purification. This homogeneous DNA diagnostic method is shown to be highly sensitive and specific and is suitable for automated genotyping of large number or samples.

Abstract: This invention discloses a method for preparing a therapeutic or diagnostic complex comprised of a nucleic acid ligand and a lipophilic compound or non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound by identifying a nucleic acid ligand by SELEX methodology and associating the nucleic acid ligand with a lipophilic compound or a non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound. The invention further discloses complexes comprising one or more nucleic acid ligands in association with a lipophilic compound or non-immunogenic, high molecular weight compound.

Abstract: Apparatus (1) for testing items of metal such as jewelry comprises a housing (3) which is closed at one end (3a) and partly open at the other end (3b). Sealed within the housing is an insert comprising a reservoir (5) containing a testing chemical and an applicator (7). The applicator extends into the reservoir (5) and projects from the housing through its partly open end (3b). The outer surface of the applicator (7) projecting from the housing forms a tip which is used to apply the testing chemical to the surface of the metal under test.

Abstract: The present invention describes methods for producing antibody libraries, and particularly for increasing antibody library diversity by inducing mutagenesis within the CDR regions of immunoglobulin heavy or light chains that are displayed on the surface of filamentous phage particles comprising the library. The invention also describes oligonucleotides useful for increasing the library diversity, and universal light chains useful in the library production methods.

Abstract: A method of testing a material without the use of animals to determine the potential of the material to harm human or animal cells due to contact includes forming a biomembrane having at least some constituent matter of human or animal tissue, applying a quantity of material to the membrane, maintaining the biomembrane and quantity of material in contact for a period of time, and monitoring the change in the physical properties of the biomembrane caused by the quantity of material.

Abstract: A method for monitoring the corrosion of C-steel of a vessel, in particular of a steam generator, when the vessel is being cleaned using at least one chemical which releases a gas, in particular nitrogen, during the cleaning process. It is envisaged that the volumetric ratio or quantitative ratio between hydrogen and the gas released is determined in the gas/vapor mixture which forms during the cleaning process and this ratio is compared with a threshold value. The cleaning process is interrupted in the event the threshold value is exceeded.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the discovery, identification and characterization of nucleotides that encode the G protein regulated phosphatidylinositol-3' kinase, a heterodimeric enzyme which produces the intracellular messenger phosphatidylinositol (3,4,5)-triphosphate in response to activation of trimeric G protein-linked receptors. This novel protein, comprised of a catalytic subunit, p120, and a regulatory subunit, p101, is found in cells of hematopoietic origin and is involved in immune system responses which cause inflammation. The presence of p101 subunit is largely responsible for the dramatic stimulation of kinase activity in the presence of activated trimeric G proteins.

Abstract: The present invention provides low molecular weight fluorescent labeling complexes with large wavelength shifts between absorption of one dye in the complex and emission from another dye in the complex. These complexes can be used, for example, for multiparameter fluorescence cell analysis using a single excitation wavelength. The low molecular weight of the complex permits materials labeled with the complex to penetrate cell structures for use as probes. The labeling complexes are synthesized by covalently attaching through linkers at least one cyanine fluorochrome to another low molecular weight fluorochrome to form energy donor-acceptor complexes. Resonance energy transfer from an excited donor to fluorescent acceptor provides wavelength shifts up to 300 nm. The fluorescent labeling complexes preferably contain reactive groups for the labeling of functional groups on target compounds, such as derivatized oxy and deoxy polynucleic acids, antibodies, enzymes, proteins and other materials.

Abstract: A method for determining the susceptibility of a sample of Zircaloy alloy to nodular corrosion. A specimen of such Zircaloy sample is annealed at a temperature within a temperature range bounded at its upper limit by the temperature T.sub.c being the temperature at equilibrium wherein sufficient solute would exist in the (.alpha.-matrix of the particular zircaloy to resist nodular corrosion, and bounded by a lower temperature, such temperature being the temperature of the (.alpha.+precipitate)/(.alpha.+.beta.+precipitate) transus for the particular Zircaloy sample. For Zircaloy-2, such temperature range is from approximately 825.degree. C. to 841.degree. C. The specimen is maintained at such selected temperature within such temperature range for a measured period, and subsequently exposed to steam at a fixed temperature and pressure for a fixed time.

Abstract: A colorimetric method is provided for determining the presence or absence of a corrosion-inhibitory level of carboxylate anion in used aqueous engine coolant.

Abstract: The composition of an alloy is inhomogeneous, so that the Fermi level of electrons in the surface of the alloy differs depending upon positions. It is accordingly considered that a part susceptible to corrosion and a part less susceptible thereto will coexist in the alloy. The corrosion rate of the alloy is indicated as the exponential function of a potential difference (.DELTA..PHI..sub.H) within an electric double layer. The potential difference remains unchanged as long as the Fermi level lies within the forbidden band of the electrons. However, in a range in which the Fermi level falls within the valence band of the electrons, the lowering thereof leads to the increase of the potential difference.

Abstract: A method for removing ferric-ferrous oxides from a liquid containing ferric-ferrous oxides and ferrous ions and to a method for determining the amount of ferrous ion in a liquid. The invention has particular utility for use in a method to accurately determine the corrosion rates of ferrometals in contact with aqueous liquids by filtering ferric-ferrous oxides from the aqueous liquid prior to determining the ferrous ion content of the aqueous liquid.

Abstract: Checkpoint gene-defective human cells are useful for screening potential anti-tumor agents. Potential therapeutic agents are screened for the ability to cause DNA accumulation or cell death in a checkpoint gene-defective human cell.

Abstract: A method and metal test pattern for monitoring metal corrosion susceptibility for integrated circuit wafers. Test patterns having an array of metal circles to simulate contact regions, an array of metal strips to simulate electrode regions, and a blanket metal layer to simulate bulk metal regions are formed. A first number of defects per unit area for the test patterns is measured, using a defect scan system. The test pattern wafers are then subjected to environmental stress conditions for a first time and a second number of defects per unit area for the test patterns is measured, again using a defect scan system. The difference between the second number and the first number is compared with a critical number. If excessive corrosion occurs the process for producing wafers is corrected before continuing to process product wafers.

Abstract: Primary amines, ammonia, or mixtures thereof can be detected using a reagent comprising from about 650 ppm to about 25 percent by weight of phthalic dicarboxyaldehyde; from about 74 to about 99.88 percent by weight of an alkali metal borate; and, from about 550 ppm to about 22 percent by weight of a nucleophile.

Abstract: A method for finding an agent which inhibits interaction between LIL-Stat protein and a nucleic acid having a LIL-Stat binding sequence is described. The LIL-Stat protein is contacted with the nucleic acid in the presence of an agent which inhibits or does not inhibit the interaction between the LIL-Stat protein and the nucleic acid. It is determined whether or not the agent inhibits this interaction. Also described are a method for treating an inflammatory response in a mammal, a therapeutic inhibitory agent suitable for treating or preventing an inflammatory response in a mammal, and DNA molecules having a DNA sequence encoding a binding site for the LIL-Stat protein.

Abstract: An RNA amplification method is particularly useful for diagnosing bacterial or viral infections or genetic disorders and for cell typing. The method includes the steps of denaturing a solution containing RNA, synthesizing a first cDNA strand from a suitable primer in the presence of reverse transcriptase, denaturing the heteroduplex formed, synthesizing a second cDNA strand from a second primer in the presence of DNA polymerase and then subjecting the cDNA formed to a sufficient number of amplification cycles. All the reactants and solvents are first placed in the same container to provide a single manipulation step that avoids the risk of contamination.

Abstract: An apparatus for measuring the amount of various corrosive gases present in a corrosive environment, which uses a metal plate having a thin metalic film thereon formed by sputtering or deposition, instead of the conventional hand made metal sheet, and which measures the thickness of a corrosion film formed on the metal film by utilizing an X-ray spectrum instead of the conventional cathode reduction method, and without destroying the corrosion film, through use of a calibration curve. The invention also provides a novel casing for holding the metal plate in the corrosive environment during measurement.

Abstract: Nucleic acid fragments capable of hybridizing to rRNA of a Salmonella species and not capable of hybridizing to rRNA of Escherichia coli.

Abstract: A method in which natural sample components are simultaneously fractionated and screened for compounds that bind tightly to specific molecules of interest is disclosed. Such newly isolated ligands are good candidates for potential therapeutic or diagnostic compounds. The natural sample is first combined with a potential target molecule and then subjected to capillary electrophoresis (CE). Charged (or even neutral) compounds present in the natural sample that bind to the added target molecule can alter its normal migration time upon CE, by changing its charge-to-mass ratio, or will cause a variation in peak shape or area. Complex formation can be detected by simply monitoring the migration of the target molecule during electrophoresis. Any new ligands that bind to the target molecule will be good candidates for therapeutic or diagnostic compounds. Interfering, weak-binding ligands commonly present in crude extracts are not detected.

Abstract: An apparatus and test method for determining the cleanliness (based on corrosivity) of a specific area on an electronic circuit assembly, such as the area between holes or pads on a single side of an assembly. The apparatus includes: (1) an extraction cell for providing an extraction fluid to an electronic circuit assembly ("ECA") area to be measured; (2) an extraction fluid for extracting residue from the ECA area to be measured; (3) a test cell with two or more electrodes and a voltage source for providing a voltage to the electrodes; and (4) a timer for measuring the time between the application of the voltage and an electrical short between the electrodes.

Abstract: Methods are disclosed for producing chimeric nucleic acid molecules with two or more functionalities. A chimeric library is generated in which individual chimeric molecules combine the functions or characteristics of two or more parent libraries, each parent library having been selected through the SELEX procedure for a specific function or feature. The chimeric molecules of this invention are useful in a variety of ways, including having improved affinities for a target molecule, enhancing assembly of multi-component molecules, and promoting reactions between two molecules.

Abstract: A calorimetric method is provided for determining the presence or absence of a corrosion-inhibitory level of carboxylate anion in used aqueous engine coolant.

Abstract: Water-treatment compositions are provided which contain a water-soluble, water-treatment polymer and, optionally, additional water-treatment chemicals. The polymers are prepared from water-treatment monomers and a photo-inert, latently-detectable moiety which is covalently bonded to the polymer backbone. When the residue of the photo-inert moiety is contacted with an amount of a photoactivator which is effective to cause the residue of the photo-inert moiety to absorb within a wavelength ranging from 300 to 800 nanometers, the residue of the photo-inert moiety is detectable at concentrations of less than 100 parts per million. Methods are also provided which allow for the determination of the concentration of low levels, i.e., less than 100 ppm, of the water-treatment polymer present in an aqueous system.

Abstract: A unitary plural-material, interocclusal dental appliance is disclosed for use in connection with orthodontic/orthopedic treatment of the teeth and jaws of a patient's mouth. The appliance includes a first region made from a first material that provides a relatively hard expanse with first and second surfaces, and with the second surface being contactable by one such set of teeth. The second surface may be constructed with a substantially planar shape, or with a shape conforming generally to the cusps of such one set of teeth. A second region is joined to the first region, and is made from a second material that provides a relatively soft, persistently resilient enclosure for the other such set of teeth. The second region includes plural zones, each of which is structured to allow an adjacent enclosed tooth to move toward the first surface of the first region, with such movement resulting in penetration of corresponding teeth into the relatively hard first material for a relatively precise distance.

Abstract: A method for determining the adequacy of corrosion prevention treatments applied to metal surfaces is disclosed. The method provides a qualitative determination of corrosion detection using inexpensive equipment. Generally, the method encompasses wetting at least a first and a second absorbent patches capable of retaining a liquid corrosive to metal surfaces to be tested with the corrosive liquid to obtain wetted patches and then contacting a portion of a first metal surface to be tested with the first patch under corrosive conditions and contacting a portion of a second metal surface to be tested with the second patch, wherein the second metal surface having the same composition as the first metal surface has been treated with an effective amount of a corrosion prevention treatment and subjecting the second patch in contact with the second metal surface to the same corrosive conditions as the corrosive conditions applied to the first patch in contact with the first metal surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for performing a weather resistance test on a composite material having a metallic, inorganic, or organic base member, and an organic material covering the base member. The apparatus includes a sample holding device disposed in a sample chamber for holding a sample of the composite material. An artificial light source irradiates light substantially in the ultraviolet light area to one surface of the sample. A dipping mechanism dips the sample in a corrosive ionized water, and dew condensation is formed through a temperature control device disposed in the sample holding device, working with a moisture source, for causing dew condensation in the surface of the sample. A cleaning device is provided for cleaning the surface of the sample, and steaming of the sample is performed through the use of a heating element disposed in the sample chamber, and the moistening means, for steaming the sample in an atmosphere of high temperature and high humidity.

Abstract: A chemical switch device and method of sensing the presence of a chemical constituent in an ambient environment, the chemical switch device comprising a film which irreversibly reacts upon exposure to specific chemical components in the environment under the conditions of measurement. The reactions can lead to large changes in the physical and chemical properties of the film which are measurable electrically, optically or by other methods.

Abstract: A concentration-fluctuation responsive regulation of water treatment agent feed is achieved by adding an incipient to a sample whereby a concentration indicator is formed. Such a concentration indicator comprises a combination of the incipient reagent and a substantially nonfluorescent water treatment agent. The concentration indicator is then monitored by fluorescence analysis of the sample to determine at least one fluorescence emission value that can be correlated to an in-system concentration of the water treatment agent. The fluorescence emission value measured in then correlated to the in-system concentration of the water treatment agent.

Abstract: Apparatus for simulating corrosion activity of a process stream on equipment and transport lines. The apparatus includes a series of modular canisters coupled to a process stream source and a process stream discharge point. A cooling coil is positioned within each canister and the cooling coils are interconnected in series. The first cooling coil is coupled to a coolant source and the last cooling coil is connected to a coolant discharge. The process stream flows thorough the series of canisters and the coolant flows through the coils in counterflow to the process stream to cool and partially condense the process stream. Corrosion activity and temperature within the canister are monitored using corrosion probes and/or coupons. Modular construction of the canisters permits disassembly and reassembly to adapt the simulator to different simulation applications.