Abstract: The invention provides a peptide based on biologically active CCK-8 having improved characteristics for the treatment of obesity and/or type 2 diabetes wherein the primary structure of CCK-8 is: Asp1Tyr2(SO3H)-Met3Gly4Trp5Met6Asp7Phe8amide (SEQ ID NO:1) and wherein the peptide has at least one amino add substitution and/or modification and is not Asp1-glucitol CCK-8. The invention also provides the use of the peptide in the preparation of a medicament to inhibit food intake, induce satiety, stimulate insulin secretion, moderate blood glucose excursions, enhance glucose disposal and/or exhibit enhanced stability in plasma compared to native CCK-8 and/or for treatment of obesity and/or type 2 diabetes.

Abstract: A method of forming an air-tight scal between two pieces of glass is described. It comprises the steps of: (a) introducing a layer of indium or indium alloy between opposing surfaces of the glass pieces; and (b) heating the indium or indium alloy layers and the glass pieces, preferably under vacuum, to a temperature, generally around or below 220° C., to melt the layers to form the seal between the pieces. The method is suitable to form a relatively small air-type seal between two glass panes or sheets, and is particularly suitable for the formation of evacuated double glazing units. Optionally, an additional metal layer is located between the indium or indium alloy layers.

Abstract: The invention relates to a system, process and apparatus for separating biosorbent and sorbate. Biomass enclosed within a membrane system is coupled to an electrode, which is capable of being placed in contact with the sorbate containing material in the presence of a counter electrode. An electric field may be discharged across the electrodes and ionic species will migrate into the membrane enclosed system. The migrated species within the membrane can be taken up and processed by the biosorbtive processes of the biomass. The system may be used to remove dye stuffs, metal, heavy metals, radionuclides and other pollutants from natural and artificial sources.