Abstract: The present invention provides novel VGF polypeptides and selective binding agents. The invention also provides host cells and methods for producing VGF polypeptides. The invention further provides VGF pharmaceutical compositions and methods for the diagnosis, treatment, amelioration, and/or prevention of diseases, conditions, and disorders associated with VGF polypeptides.

Abstract: An optical scanning system and method for scanning graphical codes on an object or media to obtain the Internet address that is represented by the graphical code. An Internet address is graphically encoded and is displayed on an object. The codes are then disseminated to the public, where users see the codes graphically encoded on objects or in media purchased or viewed by the public. Once the user determines that more information is desired, the user elects which option for code scanning is desired: automatic access to the Internet address represented by the graphical code, automatic storage of the Internet address represented by the graphical code into memory or automatic insertion of the Internet address represented by the graphical code into a query of a Web browser. The graphical code is then scanned by an optical scanner. The scanned graphical code is then transmitted to a computer where the graphical code is processed and the encoded Internet address is obtained.

Abstract: The present invention broadly relates to the field of protein modification, and, more specifically, the attachment of water soluble polymers to novel erythropoietin stimulating protein (NESP).

Abstract: The present invention broadly relates to the field of protein modification, and, more specifically, the attachment of water soluble polymers to novel erythropoietin stimulating protein (NESP).

Abstract: A method for making a thin dielectric layer is disclosed which is useful in fabricating semiconductor devices, particularly transistors and DRAM cell devices. The method comprises a two-steps, i.e., (i) growing a base layer of dielectric material on a substrate having a thickness in excess of the desired thickness for the layer, and (ii) etching back the base layer to the desired thickness. With these two steps, a thin dielectric layer of less than 20 Å may be provided having substantial uniformity across its surface with a standard deviation in surface contours of less than 0.7 Å.

Abstract: Concomitant measurement of EtCO.sub.2, EtN.sub.2 and (FiO.sub.2 -FeO.sub.2) concentrations are used to detect a VAE. In a respiratory gas monitoring system, continuous measurements of end-tidal carbon dioxide, end-tidal nitrogen and the difference between inspired and expired oxygen concentrations are averaged using a predetermined time period and stored as historical data. Periodically, a present value of each of these concentrations is compared to its respective historical average for a predetermined time period. If the following conditions are met, the device signals the presence of a venous air embolism: 1) a decrease in the EtCO.sub.2 concentration of 1.5 mm Hg; 2) an increase in the FeN.sub.2 concentration of 0.03 vol %; and 3) a decrease in the difference between the inspired oxygen concentration and the expired oxygen concentration of 0.20 vol %.