Abstract: A potent peptide inhibitor (SuperSog) of TGF-&bgr; family growth factor signalling, peptide variants thereof and nucleotide coding sequences therefor are provided by the invention. The Super-Sog peptide comprises a fragment of the Drosophilia short gastrulation (Sog) gene which includes the CR-1 cysteine-rich repeat of Sog. Methods and compositions for use of Super-Sog in therapeutic and diagnostic applications are also provided.

Abstract: The invention provides an enzyme-based device and process for manufacture of the device in a shelf-stable form. The device consists of a dry phase test strip useful in detecting the presence and concentration of uric acid in a liquid sample (such as urine) and has a stabilized uricase-containing working solution impregnated therein. Methods for manufacturing the device to maintain the stability of the working solution, especially the enzyme components therof, are also described. A method for making the uric acid measurement in one step is also provided, wherein the one step to be performed consists of applying the liquid sample to the test strip of the device.

Abstract: An improved sole construction for use in shoes. The sole construction consists of a hammock-like lattice formed of medium to high modulus polymers, or a lightweight metal alloy. The lattice substantially conforms in topography to the foot, or a weight-bearing portion thereof (such as the heel or forefoot). The lattice may be disposed on, and supported by, a resilient frame, or secured directly to the shoe upper. The lattice supports the foot while suspending it slightly, even during gait, above the interior base of the shoe. The suspended portions of the foot are thusly protected from the shock of striking a surface (such as the ground, during gait), and are gently supported while bearing a load.

Abstract: Devices, and methods for the use of same, for collecting and assaying a biological fluid in a single step. One method provides means to control and direct the flow of a sample of the biological fluid directly onto an assay test strip by disposing the assay test strip within a flow control channel in which the internal ambient pressure is maintained in substantial equilibrium with the ambient pressure outside of the flow control channel, such that essentially no pressure gradient is formed within the flow control channel. The devices include the flow control channel, at least one assay test strip and a fluid sample collection container, such as a urine cup, for insertion of the flow control channel therein.

Abstract: An assay device, a fluid analyte sample separator device and methods for use of thereof for determining whether the integrity of a fluid analyte sample has been compromised and for contemporaneously assaying the sample for the presence or absence of multiple analytes, such as drugs of abuse. The device is composed of a housing having separate slots therein for insertion of one or more analyte test strips, one end of which protrudes from the housing, and one or more units of a sample integrity monitoring system. The device may be used in dipstick or cassette form. An analyte sample separator for division of sample and retention of uncontaminated sample for further testing is also provided. The analyte test strips and sample integrity monitoring system are replaceable, so that the panel of analytes and of sample condition parameters tested can be customized.

Abstract: The invention provides an IgE and antigen-specific screening assay for use in identifying agents which suppress the IgE mediated immune response to antigen. The assay is performed in vivo in animals which hyper respond to antigen by producing exaggerated levels of IgE. The animals are sensitized to an antigen during a specific window of sensitivity which closes a day after the animal has been treated to produce the IgE hyper responsive phenotype. The screening assay is performed in the animals by treating them with a candidate IgE suppressor agent in conjunction with further immunization made after closure of the window of sensitivity defined by the invention. Positive results (indicating that the candidate agent has IgE suppressive activity) are obtained in the assay through measurement of a decline in antigen-specific IgE in the animal following its treatment with the candidate agent.