Abstract: Nitrided valve metals are described, such as nitrided tantalum and nitrided niobium. The nitrided valve metals preferably have improved flow properties, higher Scott Densities, and/or improved pore size distribution which leads to improved physical properties of the valve metal and improved electrical properties once the valve metal is formed into a capacitor anode. Processes for preparing a nitrided valve metal are further described and involve nitriding the valve metal at a sufficient temperature and pressure during a heat treatment that is prior to the deoxidation step. Capacitor anodes and other products incorporating the valve metals of the present invention are further described.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an interference-eliminating membrane for use in detecting uric acid in a sample, comprising a compound for inhibiting or shading uric acid interfering substances, or derivatives thereof, and a carrier having an absorption property and permeability for the sample; and a process for preparing the interference-eliminating membrane. The present invention also provides a test strip for use in detecting uric acid in a sample, comprising a reagent reaction layer or optional interference-eliminating membranes and/or support layers; and a kit comprising the test strip of the invention.

Abstract: Nitrided valve metals are described, such as nitrided tantalum and nitrided niobium. The nitrided valve metals preferably have improved flow properties, higher Scott Densities, and/or improved pore size distribution which leads to improved physical properties of the valve metal and improved electrical properties once the valve metal is formed into a capacitor anode. Processes for preparing a nitrided valve metal are further described and involve nitriding the valve metal at a sufficient temperature and pressure during a heat treatment that is prior to the deoxidation step. Capacitor anodes and other products incorporating the valve metals of the present invention are further described.

Abstract: Nitrided valve metals are described, such as nitrided tantalum and nitrided niobium. The nitrided valve metals preferably have improved flow properties, higher Scott Densities, and/or improved pore size distribution which leads to improved physical properties of the valve metal and improved electrical properties once the valve metal is formed into a capacitor anode. Processes for preparing a nitrided valve metal are further described and involve nitriding the valve metal at a sufficient temperature and pressure during a heat treatment that is prior to the deoxidation step. Capacitor anodes and other products incorporating the valve metals of the present invention are further described.

Abstract: A signal peptide sequence and nucleic acids encoding this sequence which are useful for improving the secretion efficiency of NGF polypeptides are provided. Also provided is a method for preparing Met-less NGF polypeptides.

Abstract: An apparatus for electrochemical refining of a low carbon steel melt is provided.

Abstract: A signal peptide sequence and nucleic acids encoding this sequence which are useful for improving the secretion efficiency of NGF polypeptides are provided. Also provided is a method for preparing Met-less NGF polypeptides.

Abstract: A method for electrochemical refining of an impurity-containing low carbon steel melt using a solid electrolyte ionic conductor to remove the impurity from the melt is provided. Also provided are an apparatus for performing the method, and a continuous method for electrochemical refining of a low carbon steel melt.