Abstract: The invention herein disclosed provides for methods for the synthesis of polymers from monomers. In particular the method provides for the synthesis of polynucleotides from mononucleotides in the absence of catalytic enzymes. The method comprises providing an aqueous solution having a plurality of phospholipid molecules and monomer molecules; subjecting the aqueous solution to fluctuating temperature conditions; subjecting the aqueous solution to fluctuating cycles of drying and hydrating conditions; subjecting the aqueous solution to fluctuating [H+] conditions; the fluctuating conditions thereby allowing formation of a chemical bond between at least two monomers to create a polymer. The invention is of particular use in the fields of molecular biology, structural biology, cell biology, molecular switches, molecular circuits, and molecular computational devices, and the manufacture thereof.

Abstract: A graphical user interface provides a series of nested spherical surfaces representing a surface and/or human development at differing times in history and prehistory. An embodiment of the present invention, a knowledge web (K-Web), comprises a new, “multiple-intelligences” learning tool aimed at encouraging depth of thinking and understanding in numerous content areas. The K-Web optionally does this by presenting content in a dynamic structure having a multiplicity of interconnections that, used in conjunction with other input and display devices, is readily accessible in many different ways to many different intelligences and cognitive styles, and thus aid in the visualization of and collaboration on “wickedly complex” problems, such as Global Warming and Third World development. It may also be used to predict the outcome when combinations of unrelated individuals, events, and technologies are brought together.

Abstract: The invention is drawn to novel nanostructures comprising hollow nanospheres and nanotubes for use as chemical sensors, conduits for fluids, and electronic conductors. The nanostructures can be used in microfluidic devices, for transporting fluids between devices and structures in analytical devices, for conducting electrical currents between devices and structure in analytical devices, and for conducting electrical currents between biological molecules and electronic devices, such as bio-microchips.

Abstract: The invention provides a cyclomonomer having actin-binding activity. The cyclomonomer is of utility for the study of the molecular biology of actin polymerization. The cyclomonomer is also useful for the study of and treatment of the toxic effects of Amanita sp. poisoning.

Abstract: The present invention provides for a non-naturally occurring binding protein comprising an amino acid sequence capable of binding to a CCG regulatory sequence and an amino acid sequence which forms a transcription activation region. In particular the invention comprises a sequence selected from the group consisting of an AP2 domain of SEQ. I.D. Nos. 13, 15, 39, 41, 43, 45, 47, 49, 51, 53, 55, 57, 59, 61, 63, 65, 67, 69, 71, 73, 75, 77, 79, 81, 83, 85, 87, 89, 91, 93, and 95. When these proteins are overexpressed in a plant the plant exhibits increased tolerance to environmental stresses such as cold, freezing, drought or high salinity.

Abstract: The invention provides a human PINCH protein homolog (PINCH-PH) and polynucleotides which identify and encode PINCH-PH. The invention also provides expression vectors, host cells, antibodies, agonists, and antagonists. The invention also provides methods for treating or preventing disorders associated with expression of PINCH-PH.