Abstract: Recombinant vectors and methods for constructing ricin B are disclosed. The coding sequence for ricin B was cloned, disposed in suitable expression vectors and produced free of components normally accompanying this peptide. In addition, a novel means of reconstructing missing portions of coding sequence, and certain improvements in messenger RNA purification are disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention operates in a file server having a peripheral storage subsystem coupled thereto by means of a fibre channel. The file server includes an apparatus disposed between the file server and the storage subsystem for adapting fibre channel transmissions to and from an industry standard data bus of the file server. The apparatus includes a microprocessor executing a method comprising the following steps. Sensing if an interrupt has occurred by the file server, and if so, determining the condition of the interrupt by the file server and handling it. If an interrupt has not occurred, testing an interface between the fibre channel and the apparatus to assure connectivity of the fibre channel. Next, sense for an action to be taken in response to the interrupt, and if so attempt to take appropriate action.

Abstract: Apparatus is provided for detecting losses in a branched optical fibre network comprising a first optical fibre and a plurality of second optical fibres each of which is coupled to the first optical fibre. The first optical fibre constitutes a main line, and the second optical fibres constitute branch lines. The apparatus comprises launch means for launching a carrier wave into the main line, respective modulators in each of the branch lines for modulating the carrier wave in that branch line, returns for returning the modulated signals along the branch lines to the main line, and monitors for monitoring the main line for changes in the modulation of the returned signals. The modulators are such that each modulates the carrier wave differently.

Abstract: An intrauterine pressure catheter system for monitoring pressure in the uterus of a mother during labor and delivery. The system includes a reusable junction box with a needle communicating directly to a pressure transducer sensor. The sensor transmits changes in pressure to a conventional pressure monitor. A connector attached to the catheter is pushed into the junction box and is held in place by a plastic latch. Inside this connector are an elastomeric plug and an adjacent diaphragm. When the connector is installed in the junction box, the needle pierces the plug and the tip enters the air-filled volume between the plug and the diaphragm. Fluid pressure in the catheter is communicated to the diaphragm surface and, in turn, passed to the air in the volume between the diaphragm and the plug. Thus, the intrauterine pressure is transmitted directly to the sensor. The system may be zeroed to atmosphere by simply removing the connector from the junction box.