Abstract: A non-aqueous electrolyte solution is provided that realizes a large capacity, exhibits high storage characteristics and cycle characteristics, and is capable of inhibiting gas generation.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel method of labeling oligonucleotides, with reporter moieties, including but not limited to, quenchers, fluorophores, biotin, digoxigenin, peptides and proteins. In addition, this invention provides a method of detecting hybridization of oligonucleotides. This invention also provides novel azo quenchers having the general formula shown below. The invention further provides compositions comprising labeled oligonucleotides and solid supports. The invention also provides kits comprising at least one composition of the present invention.

Abstract: The invention provides a novel method of labeling oligonucleotides, with reporter moieties, including but not limited to, quenchers, fluorophores, biotin, digoxigenin, peptides and proteins. In addition, this invention provides a method of detecting hybridization of oligonucleotides. This invention also provides novel azo quenchers having the general formula shown below. The invention further provides compositions comprising labeled oligonucleotides and solid supports. The invention also provides kits comprising at least one composition of the present invention.

Abstract: The instant invention provides potent antiandrogen compounds, such as 3?-acetoxyandrost-1,5-diene-17-ethylene ketal and 3?-hydroxyandrost-1,5-diene-17-ethylene ketal, and methods for their use in the prevention and treatment of biological conditions mediated by androgen receptors. Thus, for example, compounds of the invention are useful in the prevention and treatment of prostrate cancer. Furthermore, it has been discovered that compounds of the invention are useful in the prevention and treatment of androgen-independent cancers such as androgen-independent prostrate cancer. Finally, inventive compounds may be used to treat antiandrogen induced withdrawal syndrome.

Abstract: The present invention makes available, inter alia, methods and reagents for modulating smoothened-dependent pathway activation. In certain embodiments, the subject methods can be used to counteract the phenotypic effects of unwanted activation of a hedgehog pathway, such as resulting from hedgehog gain-of-function, ptc loss-of-function or smoothened gain-of-function mutations.

Abstract: A compound of the formula ##STR1## wherein R is .dbd.O or ##STR2## and the rings A and B are selected from the group consisting of ##STR3## K is oxo or a protector group of oxo of the formula ##STR4## n is 2 or 3 and R.sub.1 is an ether or ester remainder, K' is oxo or a protector oxime, hydrazone or semicarbazone group and the wavy lines symbolize an isomer mixture, a process for their preparation and their use as intermediates.

Abstract: Novel cationic amphiphiles are provided that facilitate transport of biologically active (therapeutic) molecules into cells. The amphiphiles contain lipophilic groups derived from steroids, from mono or dialkylamines, or from alkyl or acyl groups; and cationic groups, protonatable at physiological pH, derived from amines, alkylamines or polyalkylamines. There are provided also therapeutic compositions prepared typically by contacting a dispersion of one or more cationic amphiphiles with the therapeutic molecules. Therapeutic molecules that can be delivered into cells according to the practice of the invention include DNA, RNA, and polypeptides. Representative uses of the therapeutic compositions of the invention include providing gene therapy, and delivery of antisense polynucleotides or biologically active polypeptides to cells. With respect to therapeutic compositions for gene therapy, the DNA is provided typically in the form of a plasmid for complexing with the cationic amphiphile.

Abstract: Novel antiandrogenic agents are provided. An exemplary group of compounds has the structural formula (I) ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 through R.sup.10, a and b are as defined herein. Pharmaceutical compositions and methods for using the compounds of formula (I) to treat androgen-related clinical conditions are provided, as are methods and compositions for using the compounds as contraceptive agents.

Abstract: There is disclosed an azetidinone compound of the formula [I]: ##STR1## wherein Ring B is a benzene ring which may have substituent(s), R.sup.1 is a hydroxy-substituted lower alkyl group which may have substituent(s), X is oxygen atom and the like, Y is oxygen atom and the like, and Z is a methylene group which may have substituent(s), which is useful as a synthetic intermediate of the 1.beta.-methylcarbapenem-type antibacterial agent.

Abstract: There is disclosed an azetidinone compound of the formula [I]: ##STR1## wherein Ring B is a benzene ring which may have substituent(s), R.sup.1 is a hydroxy-substituted lower alkyl group which may have substituent(s), X is oxygen atom and the like, Y is oxygen atom and the like, and Z is a methylene group which may have substituent(s), which is useful as a synthetic intermediate of the 1.beta.-methylcarbapenem-type antibacterial agent.

Abstract: This invention provides a simplified method for converting pregnan-3,20-dione compounds to 3.alpha.-hydroxy,3.beta.-substituted-pregnanes. By selective use of reagents the unprotected dione is converted chemoselectively and diastereoselectively into a 3(R)-pregnan-3-spiro-2'oxirane-20-one intermediate. This intermediate can then be converted regioselectively by a second set of reactions to the 3.alpha.-hydroxy,3.beta.-substituted-20-one form, which can be further modified at the 20-keto position.Through this method, each ketone group is independently treated. By modifying the ketones one at a time, one can obtain the desired stereo-specificity at each site.