Abstract: Methods, compositions and articles of manufacture are provided for conducting specific binding assays to determine the concentration or presence of at least one analyte in a sample. At least two dendrimer-reagent preparations with different analyte specificities may be immobilized on a solid phase. Alternatively, at least one dendrimer-reagent preparation having multiple specificities may be immobilized on a solid phase. Immobilization is facilitated by coupling specific binding assay reagents such as polypeptide receptors or analytes with water soluble polymers. Such water soluble polymers, for example star polymers such as dendrimers, provide production advantages of lot-to-lot uniformity and homogeneity, and can enhance sensitivity due to low non-specific binding to the solid phase.

Abstract: A process for preparing benzene containing less than 1 ppm (wt) dioxane from an aromatic stream containing benzene which is contaminated with dioxane, the process including providing an aromatic stream containing benzene which is contaminated with dioxane; subjecting the aromatic stream to liquid phase adsorption by contacting an adsorbent contained in at least one column, which adsorbent comprises at least one substance selected from the group consisting of molecular sieves and clay; and recovering benzene containing less than 1 ppm (wt) dioxane. Preferably, the liquid phase adsorption is carried out at a pressure ranging from atmospheric pressure to 20 kg/cm.sup.2 and at a temperature ranging from ambient temperature to 50.degree. C. Preferably, the molecular sieves have a pore size of 10 .ANG.. The process may further include regenerating the adsorbent by passing a flow of nitrogen gas through the adsorbent at a temperature ranging from 200 to 300.degree. C.

Abstract: Compositions are disclosed, comprising dendrimers to which a first polypeptide is controllably coupled. Such polypeptide-dendrimer compositions are effective for controllably coupling a second polypeptide to the dendrimer. The first and second polypeptides have separate and distinct defined biological activities, for example, two antibodies with first and second binding specificities or an antibody and an enzymatic label. Such compositions are useful as indicators in specific binding assays, e.g., immunoassays. Methods for sequentially coupling two different polypeptides to a dendrimer to form compositions of the invention also are disclosed.

Abstract: A composition and method are disclosed to reduce the effects that endogenous alkaline phosphatase found in some human bodily fluid samples have on solid phase immunoassay systems. The composition comprises a detergent, inhibitors to alkaline phosphatase, and a buffer and may contain a substrate to alkaline phosphatase.

Abstract: Methods are provided for conducting specific binding assays to determine the concentration or presence of at least one analyte in a sample. Dendrimer-reagent preparations with particular analyte specificities are mixed in solution with a sample to form dendrimer-reagent-sample complexes. The complexes are then immobilized on a solid phase. Immobilization is facilitated by coupling specific binding assay reagents such as polypeptide receptors or analytes with water soluble polymers. Such water soluble polymers, for example star polymers such as dendrimers, provide production advantages of lot-to-lot uniformity and homogeneity, and can enhance sensitivity due to low non-specific binding to the solid phase.

Abstract: Methods and compositions are provided for specific binding assays in which specific binding reagents are immobilized on a solid phase. Immobilization is facilitated by covalently coupling specific binding assay reagents such as polypeptide receptors or analytes with water soluble polymers. Such water soluble polymers, for example star polymers such as dendrimers, provide production advantages of lot-to-lot uniformity and homogeneity, and can enhance sensitivity due to low non-specific binding to the solid phase.

Abstract: A method in system for the testing of the electrical characteristics of an electronic module mounted on a printed circuit board. The method and system monitors selected signals from the Bottom Signal Pads of the electronic module. Thus, eliminating the need for a prototype or specialized printed circuit board in order to perform desired testing of signals.

Abstract: A demountable, and thus re-usable, conductive heat sink for dissipation of excess heat of an electronic component. The heat sink uses a T-bolt and T-slot for attachment to the electronic component and the printed circuit board, respectively. This attachment eliminates the typical concerns associated with the placement of traces on the PCB to accommodate the holes placed therein for the attachment of conventional heat sinks. The improved designed also facilitates demounting of the heat sink from the printed circuit board and the electronic component without damage thereto.

Abstract: A demountable, and thus re-usable, conductive heat sink for dissipation of excess heat of an electronic component. The heat sink uses a T-bolt and T-slot for attachment to the electronic component and the printed circuit board, respectively. This attachment eliminates the typical concerns associated with the placement of traces on the PCB to accommodate the holes placed therein for the attachment of conventional heat sinks. The improved designed also facilitates demounting of the heat sink from the printed circuit board and the electronic component without damage thereto.

Abstract: Apparatus and a method are disclosed for automatically applying uniform amounts of oily lubricant to electrical contact tabs on one or more edges on one or both sides of a printed circuit card, simultaneously, by conveying the card past one or more lubrication stations in wiping contact with free rolling rollers adapted for contacting a wick continuously supplied with lubricant.

Abstract: A new and distinct hybrid plant named `Himalaya` (Mentha arvensis) characterized by its higher yield of oil which is rich in menthol, improved regeneration potential, vigorous growth, deep green broad thick leaves, pinkish white flowers and tolerance to rust such as alternaria leaf blight, corynespora leaf spot and powdery mildew.