Abstract: Nucleic acids can be amplified and detected using an element which has a sealable support on which is disposed a nucleic acid reagent composition. The composition is a mixture of a nucleic acid reagent composed of polymeric particles to which an oligonucleotide is covalently attached. The particles are prepared from a first polymer having a glass transition temperature of at least about 70.degree. C. and have an average diameter of from about 0.1 to about 3 micrometers. The reagent is adhered to the support using a water insoluble adhesive comprising a second polymer which has a glass transition temperature which is at least about 30.degree. C. less than the glass transition temperature of the first polymer. The adhesive is present in the composition at from about 1 to about 20 dry weight percent. The method provides high sensitivity and low background in the assay of nucleic acids, preferably using polymerase chain reaction.

Abstract: A dry immunoassay analytical element, for assaying a ligand, comprising in the following order:(a) a layer containing a labeled ligand;(b) a spreading layer;(c) a receptor layer containing a fixed concentration of an immobilized receptor for the labeled ligand and the receptor is i) covalently bonded to polymeric beads having a diameter in the range of 0.1 to 5 .mu.m and ii) dispersed in a polymeric binder and(d) a support;characterized in that the spreading layer contains a water soluble polymer containing vanadium IV (V.sup.+4) ions.

Abstract: Methylenemalonates are prepared by reacting a substituted norbornene with an electrophilic material in the presence of a lithium amide complex and pyrolyzing. The resulting acrylates are useful as fast setting, polymerizable adhesives.