Abstract: Disclosed is a polymerizable complex containing a covalently attached nucleic acid molecule which, under appropriate conditions, is capable of copolymerization with a second polymerizable ethylene-containing monomer unit to form a polymerized layer. The polymerized layer containing attached nucleic acid is useful in a variety of contexts including, for example, hybridization assays. The polymerized layer containing the covalently attached nucleic acid molecule can be formed into a variety of shapes, or attached to a formed material through appropriate chemistry.

Abstract: A needle retraction mechanism for a needle bearing medical device is provided. The needle retainer selectively retains the needle in a projecting configuration in which the sharpened tip of the needle projects outwardly from the device. The needle retaining mechanism has an axial projection configured to provide at least one finger, and preferably a plurality of separable fingers that are joined together to form a bore.

Abstract: The present invention discloses novel monomeric compositions which are substituted quinoline- or quinazoline-based structures capable of hydrogen bonding specifically with interstrand purine-pyrimidine base pairs in a double-stranded Watson-Crick DNA molecule. Furthermore, the novel monomeric compounds of the present invention are capable of being assembled in specific sequences into oligomers capable of binding with sequence specificity to duplex DNA via a triple helix motif.

Abstract: A stackable metallic pallet collar in the form of a hollow rectangular frame which can be folded into compact form for storage. The collar consists of four side sections arranged in opposite pairs joined by means of hinged joints so that they can be folded together. The side sections are sheet metal and are provided with continuous longitudinal ribs arranged and dimensioned so that the longitudinal ribs of adjacent side sections which are connected by a common hinged joint nest within one another in pairs when the side sections are folded together around the common hinged joint. The upper and lower edges of the side sections are bent outwardly and down to permit stacking of the collars when extended.