Abstract: Non-peptide compounds that act as antagonists of the intestinal hormone glucagons-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) have a 9H-b-carboline central motif. The compounds exhibit advantageous physical, chemical and biological properties and inhibit GLP-1 peptide binding to the GLP-1 receptor and/or prevent activation of the receptor by bound GLP-1. The invention further relates to a method of inhibiting the binding of GLP-1 to the GLP-1 receptor and a method of inhibiting the activation of the GLP-1 receptor. Intermediate compounds useful for making non-peptide GLP-1 receptor antagonists are also described.

Abstract: Benzo(e)perimidine-4-carboxamide derivatives of general structural formula I ##STR1## (where R.sub.a, R.sup.1, R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.4, R.sup.5, and R.sup.6 are as defined in the specification) have activity for receptors of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF). The compounds are useful in treating stress-related diseases, cardiovascular, neurological and psychiatric disorders including anxiety, depression, eating disorders, anorexia nervosa, superanuclear palsy, irritable bowel syndrome, gastrointestinal diseases, immune suppression, inflammatory disorders, drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms, drug addiction, Alzheimer's disease or fertility disorders.

Abstract: A water soluble dicarboxylic acid acts as a mold release agent for salt blocks when it is sprayed as a fine powder into the block press mold box just prior to a charge of salt. The acid has from 6 to 10 carbon atoms; adipic acid is a preferred release agent. The salt block having a layer of the acid on it surface may be used in water softening systems wherein the block sits in a brine reservoir and supplies salt for the recharging of an ion exchange resin. There is no build up of an unsightly scum on the surface of the brine and on the sides of the reservoir as there has been with the use of calcium stearate as the release agent.