Abstract: A system for measuring the concentration of an assay substance comprising a sensor having an optical fiber (10) on one end of which is coated a body (22). A fluorophor is dispersed within the body (22), the fluorescent activity of which is altered in relationship to the concentration of the assay substance. Light from a source such as an LED (40) is carried by the fiber (10) to the body (22). Light emitted by the fluorophor is carried to a detector unit (54) along the fiber (10). Concentration of the assay substance is determined by measurement of the characteristics of the growth in emitted light following activation of the LED (40).

Abstract: The object of the present invention is the development of new chiral auxiliaries for improved &bgr;-lactam formation that control both the diastereoselectivity of &bgr;-lactam formation and which can be removed without destruction of the sensitive azetidinone ring, providing valuable intermediates for coupling to the C-13 hydroxyl group of anti-tumor taxanes, such as paclitaxel. Further, the object of the present invention is enantiomerically pure (S)-(−)-1-(p-methoxy-phenyl)propyl-1-amine.

Abstract: Polynucleotide molecules encoding CTCF are isolated and purified and sequenced. The CTCF proteins and antibodies thereto can be used to identify mutant CTCFs in methods of diagnosis.

Abstract: Methods of screening for substances which affect mammalian MAP kinase pathways, both inhibitors and activators, are provided. Substances identified using the methods as having such an effect are candidate pharmaceuticals for use in treatment of cancer, inflammatory disorders, cardio-vascular disorders or neurological disease. Yeasts are provided for use in the methods. In the yeast, deficiencies in yeast MAPKK kinase and MAPK kinase are complemented by mammalian MAPKK kinase and MAPK kinase. Yeast MAPK may also be replaced with a mammalian homologue and mammalian MAPK phosphatases may be introduced.

Abstract: A new glycoprotein 5T4 has been identified in human trophoblast. The antigen and fragments thereof and, more particularly, antibodies that recognise the antigen or fragments thereof are of value in relation to cancer diagnosis and treatment, particularly for the routine screening of cervical smears.

Abstract: An apparatus for biological treatment comprises a body, a light source inside the body, a concave mirror mounted in an axial guide on a side of the body, an optical filter on the opposite side in an opening, a fan between the source and the concave mirror, two reflector cylinders positioned symmetrically between the source and the optical filter and rotating in opposite directions, and a rotary shalter disc at the same location as the optical filter and with orifices positioned coaxially with respect to the optical filter creating the effect of a light flux made up of the rays reflected by the mirror and the fan blades after the latter have received them from the source and the reflector cylinders. The apparatus is used for various biological treatment such as the treatment of viral diseases, rheumatic states, and the like.