Abstract: An apparatus for mitigating seismic load imposing an overturning bending moment upon a multi-level structure comprises a tensioned tendon having a first end fixedly connected to one of the levels proximate one side of the structure and a second end fixedly secured to another of the levels proximate an opposite side of the structure, wherein the tendon is oriented in space between its first and second ends along a predetermined curve selected to provide optimum reaction to said load by running the tendon through intermediate story levels at calculated locations. The apparatus further comprises a supplemental system for connecting the second end of the tendon to the structure. The supplemental system preferably includes a mechanical energy dissipating device and a sacrificially yielding fuse element arranged in parallel with the mechanical energy dissipating device.

Abstract: A sensor having a substrate overlayed with a sol-gel layer, a chemical sensing species deposited upon the sol-gel layer, and a thin film of a second sol-gel layer overlaying and entrapping the species. The effect of this sensor is that the species exhibits a significant portion of its intrinsic function over a period of time. In yet another embodiment of the subject invention, a method is disclosed to form a thin sol-gel layer upon an ambient substrat. This method ensures the integrity, stability and functionality of the chemical sensing species within the sol-gel layers.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for inhibiting malignant neoplastic growth of epithelial or endothelial cells in a mammal by administering to the mammal an effective amount of an oligonucleotide complementary to at least a portion of mRNA for ERK-1 or ERK-2 that is overexpressed in the mammal. The antisense oligonucleotides are administered to the mammal as a dosage unit. A method of identifying and monitoring potentially malignant neoplastic cell growth in a mammal is also disclosed.

Abstract: A gamma camera quality test pattern having a substrate which is substantially transparent to gamma radiation, the substrate having four quadrants, each quadrant containing a set of spaced L-shaped grooves filled with a material that is essentially opaque to gamma radiation.

Abstract: The invention is an apparatus for use in serial radiography which provides replicable projection geometry between an energy source, an intraoral target area, and an image receptor. The device uses a stent and an alignment arm which terminates in an alignment ring. The alignment ring is received by a sensor ring affixed to an x-ray source to provide proper projection geometry. Sensors in communication with electronic means may be disposed about the sensor ring to indicate proper alignment.

Abstract: A composite is formed wherein particles of a conductive polymer are uniformly distributed within a processable non-conductive polymer. In the method of the invention, an inverted emulsion is formed by dispersing an aqueous solution of oxidant in an organic solvent comprising a host polymer and an oil-soluble surfactant. A monomer whose polymerization yields a conductive polymer which is dissolved in a solvent miscible with the organic solvent of the emulsion is then added dropwise to the emulsion with agitation. The composite is separated from the emulsion and the precipitate is washed and dried.

Abstract: A device useful in endoscopic and other surgical procedures is disclosed. Two arms supporting a membrane therebetween are extendible from within a tube to an operative shape in which the arms diverge and spread the membrane between them. The device may be used for retraction or shielding, and is further provided with means for facilitating aspiration or irrigation. Related methods are also disclosed.