Abstract: A reverse transcriptase assay is described. A modular nanostructure comprising relatively small and relatively long RNA sequences is utilized in the assay.

Abstract: A disposable cartridge for storage and delivery of reagents for synthesizing and labeling of synthetic oligonucleotides comprises an annular casing, an enclosed area defined by the interior surface of the casing and a non-swellable matrix which is inert to organic solvents is positioned within the enclosed area. Adsorbed onto the surface of the matrix is a reagent to be coupled to an immobilized oligonucleotide precursor. The cartridges can be packaged in such a way as to insure the long-term stability of the reagents contained therein. The cartridge is readily insertable into the reagent delivery line of an automated synthesizer of oligonucleotides and also is useful for the production of labeled oligonucleotides by manual coupling. The cartridges of the invention are disposable after a single use. Substantial economies in the synthesis of labeled synthetic oligonucleotides are achieved by use of the cartridge.

Abstract: Molecules having an RNA block linked to a shorter DNA block is described. The RNA and DNA blocks are complementary to accommodate formation of fold-back molecules having a 3' hydroxyl on the DNA block and an overhanging RNA strand at the end of a short DNA-RNA hybrid.

Abstract: Novel synthetic oligomers of unique three-dimensional structure comprising homologous and heterologous blocks, some of which may self-associate are described. Also disclosed is a synthetic oligonucleotide that includes 5-fluorocytosine residues at positions corresponding to methylation sites of DNA-cytosine methyltransferase and a method for preparing such a molecule.

Abstract: A clothes dryer designed to rest over the register of a floor duct delivering hot air from a forced hot air heating system. The dryer is a vertical hollow column, closed at the top and open at the bottom, to which are attached one or more foldable drying racks on which the clothes are hung for drying. Openings in the column at specified levels are fitted with baffles which direct the hot air toward the clothes. A flat base stabilizes the unit so it can remain in vertical orientation. A second embodiment has a housing beneath the base dimensioned to fit within the hot air duct when the register is removed. The drying racks can be easily folded down for storage.

Abstract: An improved system for treatment of cooling tower water using ozone as a biocide. A self-contained unit is supplied with compressed air which is introduced to ozone generating electrodes at a constant flowrate. The ozone is mixed with tower water and then returned to the cooling tower. A sampling probe allows for constant monitoring of the ozone content of water coming from the tower. The volume of ozone mixing with the tower water is accordingly constantly adjusted. The system also includes safety control features to monitor system operation and provide shutoff in the event of malfunction.

Abstract: An improved system for treatment of cooling tower water using ozone as a biocide. A self-contained unit is supplied with compressed air which is introduced to ozone generating electrodes at a constant flowrate. The ozone is mixed with tower water and then returned to the cooling tower. A sampling probe allows for constant monitoring of the ozone content of water coming from the tower. The volume of ozone mixing with the tower water is accordingly constantly adjusted. The system also includes safety control features to monitor system operation and provide shutoff in the event of malfunction.

Abstract: This invention provides chimeric DNA/RNA catalytic molecules useful to cleave RNA sequences.

Abstract: A microprocessor controlled, general purpose gene synthesizer for programmably synthesizing selected nucleotide sequences. Depending upon a programmed chemistry, metered volumes of selected bases and reagent/solvents are sequentially metered into the bottom of a reaction cell containing solid-supported nucleotides, where desired linkages are achieved in an agitated suspension. Self-refilling syringe metering and electrically initiated, pneumatically operated valving insures economical, non-contaminated synthesis. Preprogrammed, selectable chemistries and operator programmed sequences are operatively coupled under microprocessor control to ensure a general purpose synthesizer.