Abstract: Compounds according to formula I: T1—L—T2   (I), wherein T1 is a taxoid group, preferably of Formula II: wherein R1 is C6H5; R2 is O; L is a linking group; and T2 is a substituent selected from the group consisting of epipodophyllotoxin, amsacrine, ellipticine, anthracycline antibiotic, mitoxantrone, and colchicine groups, and pharmaceutically acceptable salts thereof, are provided herein. The compounds are useful in, among other things, treating tumors or cancer in subjects in need thereof, inducing cellular differentiation, and inhibiting cellular mitosis.

Abstract: A process for purifying the bacterial fermentation product ivermectin, particularly for use as a reference standard compound in a governmental regulatory approval process. The process includes the use of reversed-phase flash column chromatography coupled with gradient elution. An exemplary eluent mixture includes acetonitrile, methanol and water.

Abstract: Structures and fabrication methods of micromachined all-metal relays on silicon chips are described. The relay comprises a copper blade, electroformed into the lithographically patterned areas, with suitable dimensions of 1 mm.times.2 mm.times.0.01 mm (width.times.length.times.thickness) and a plurality of longitudinal slots to facilitate fabrication of the blade. The relay is actuated by electrostatic force, and no conduction current is required to hold the relay at either "on" or "off" state. Preferably, the relay is used in combination with a suitable arc suppression circuit.