Abstract: A thermoelectric device that realizes miniaturization and densification, an optical module incorporating the thermoelectric device, and their production method. N-type thermoelectric elements 51 and p-type thermoelectric elements 52 are arranged orthogonally and alternately, on the XY-plane, in a matrix consisting of at least four elements in total in a row and at least four elements in total in a column. All the thermoelectric elements 51 and 52 have a size of at most 250 &mgr;m in the X and Y directions. At most four thermoelectric elements nearest to an n-type thermoelectric element 51 are of p type, and at most four thermoelectric elements nearest to a p-type thermoelectric element 52 are of n type. The thermoelectric elements 51 and 52 are bonded through metallic bonding materials to electrodes 53 having the shape of a rectangle or a rounded rectangle formed on an insulating substrate 54.

Abstract: T-cell responses are initiated via contact with MHC/peptide complexes on antigen presenting cells (APCs). The fate of these complexes, however, is unknown. Here, using live APCs expressing MHC class I molecules fused with green-fluorescent protein, we show that peptide-specific T-cell/APC interaction induces clusters of MHC I molecules to congregate within minutes at the contact site; thereafter, these MHC I clusters are acquired by T-cells in small aggregates. We further demonstrate that acquisition of MHC I by T-cells correlates with TCR down regulation and the APC-derived MHC I molecules are endocytosed and degraded by T-cells. These data suggest a novel mechanism by which TCR recognition of MHC/peptide complexes can be curtailed by internalization of MHC molecules by T-cells.

Abstract: Oligomeric anilines (I; n=2, 4), useful in sensors for volatile organic compounds, in corrosion-resistant coatings for metals and metal alloys, and in applications which use electroactive materials, are prepared. Thus, tetraaniline in the emeraldine oxidation. state (n=1) was prepared by the ferric chloride-promoted oxidative coupling of N-phenyl-1,4-phenylenediamine HCl salt and recrystallizing the reaction mixture from PhMe, and next converted to tetraaniline in the leucoemeraldine oxidation state by treatment with hydrazine. Tetraaniline in the leucoemeraldine oxidation state was then contacted with an oxidative coupling agent (e.g., ammonium peroxydisulfate) to produce aniline oligomers I (n=2 and 4).

Abstract: Stains are removed from fabrics safely and effectively using a spot removal composition which contains peroxide.

Abstract: A fabric cleaning/refreshment process is conducted in a hot air clothes dryer using a vapor-releasing containment bag. The bag is constructed using heat resistant polymers, such as nylon, to avoid unanticipated hot spots in the dryer. The bag retains its integrity and can be re-used in subsequent dry cleaning operations. Vapor is vented from the bag during use, thereby minimizing wrinkling in the clothes being cleaned and removing malodors therefrom.

Abstract: Granular detergent compositions comprise conventional ingredients and a perfume delivery system which comprises Type X or Type Y Zeolites having a perfume releasably adsorbed within their pores, and a barrier matrix comprising a fluid polyol or diol which is insoluble with the perfume and a solid polyol containing more than three hydroxyl moieties. Methods of depositing said perfume onto fabric surfaces are disclosed.

Abstract: Detergent compositions comprise oleoyl sarcosinate and polyhydroxy fatty acid amide surfactants which, together, provide compositions with improved cleaning performance and good solubility. Thus, oleoyl sarcosinate is combined with C.sub.10 -C.sub.18 N-methyl glucamide and builders, enzymes and other detersive ingredients to provide a laundry detergent. Use of this mixture of surfactants in dishwashing detergents is also described.