Abstract: A new virus, Hepatitis C virus (HCV), which has proven to be the major etiologic agent of blood-borne NANBH, was discovered by Applicant. Reagents for isolating, amplifying, and detecting HCV polynucleotides are provided. These reagents are oligomers containing polynucleotide sequences which are capable of forming hybrid structures with HCV target polynucleotide sequences.

Abstract: A method of manufacturing a nonvolatile memory device having a self-aligned structure includes the steps of forming a gate insulating film on a semiconductor substrate of a first conductivity type. A semiconductor layer is formed on the gate insulating film and etched to form floating gates and a semiconductor pattern between the floating gates. Impurity ions of a second conductivity type are implanted into the same side of the substrate as the floating gate is formed, to form a drain region. A planarizing film is deposited on the substrate and etched until the upper surfaces of the floating gates and the semiconductor pattern are exposed. The semiconductor pattern is removed and impurity ions of the second conductivity type are implanted into the substrate, to form a source region. The planarizing film is removed to expose the floating gate, and a dielectric film is formed thereon. Finally, a control gate is formed on the substrate.

Abstract: Two new isolates of the Hepatitis C virus (HCV), J1 and J7, are disclosed. These new isolates comprise nucleotide and amino acid sequences which are distinct from the prototype HCV isolate, HCV1. Thus, J1 and J7 provide new polynucleotides and polypeptides for use, inter alia, in diagnostics, recombinant protein production and vaccine development.