Abstract: A diagnostic reagent is disclosed which is capable of binding to a target nucleotide sequence which is bound to a labeled polynucleotide in a target binding region which is at least partially co-extensive with the target binding region in the probe polynucleotide which is capable of binding to the target nucleotide sequence. A method is disclosed in which the reagent is contacted with a sample and with a capturing polynucleotide under conditions such that target nucleotide which may be present in the sample binds to the probe polynucleotide and displaces labeled polynucleotide from the reagent complex, and the capturing polynucleotide binds selectively to the displaced labeled polynucleotide in the region of the labeled polynucleotide that had been bound to the probe polynucleotide. Determination of the displaced nucleotide gives a value which is a function of the presence and concentration of target nucleotide in the sample.

Abstract: A method for determining the presence and amount of a predetermined target nucleotide sequence in a biological sample is provided. The method employs a reagent complex which consists of a labeled probe polynucleotide having a target binding region and a second polynucleotide bound to the labeled probe in a second polynucleotide binding region thereof. The second binding region is at least partially coextensive with the target binding region. This reagent complex is contacted with a sample under conditions in which the target sequence binds to the labeled probe, displacing the second polynucleotide. Labeled probe/target hybrids are separated from intact reagent complexes and the presence and amount of these hybrids are determined.

Abstract: A piezoelectric fluid pumping apparatus includes pumping means for supplying a fluid under pressure and an energizer arranged in driving relationship therewith. The energizer includes a generally planar flexure member having first and second piezoelectric laminates supported thereon. The flexure member includes a first edge and a second edge, the edges being resiliently constrained for substantially preventing longitudinal movement thereof when an electrical signal is applied to the laminates. Preferred embodiments of the flexure member include bimorphous, biunimorphous and quadrimorphous piezoelectric structures.

Abstract: A portable TV transmitter is provided on a harness. The transmitter may be carried by a person on the back thus leaving the hands free for operating a TV camera coupled with the transmitter. The transmitter is equipped with a multi-directional antenna, a rechargeable battery pack and a battery charger. The battery pack and charger may be removed during the charging operation.