Abstract: A method of controlling noxious weeds, particularly nutsedge (Cyperus spp) by soil solarization, comprising covering the soil with an effective thickness of a transparent, thermoplastic IR retentive film for a sufficient period of time to either kill or suppress the weeds. Also a field management method for the growing of cash crops susceptible to interference by noxious weeds comprising the steps of forming planting beds of soil; subjecting the soil to soil solarization; painting the film to terminate the solarization period; and transplanting cash crop.

Abstract: A method of inhibiting the production of cytokines, particularly inhibiting the production of tumor necrosis factor&agr;, interleukin-10, and macrophage inflammatory protein-1&agr; and the like, in a mammal, including a human, in need thereof which involves administering to such mammal an effective amount, preferably cytokine production inhibiting amount, of a polymethoxylated flavone.

Abstract: Compositions for preparing edible coatings for fruits, vegetables, and prepared foods, which include polyvinyl acetate, provide a coating with a high gloss.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for rapidly tenderizing meats such as poultry meats includes clamping the meat between plates to prevent contraction and toughening of the meat muscles and chilling, thereby alleviating long holding and refrigeration, as is the current practice. In an alternate embodiment, the apparatus may be automated to tenderize meat continuously.

Abstract: A release rate modulator for use with membrane-based formulations systems to control the release of a substance. The release rate modulator is formed from perforated polypropylene containing approximately 36 holes/cm.sup.2. Each hole is approximately 1 mm.sup.2 in size. The flow of substance passes through the holes and the membrane before reaching the surrounding environment. The use of the modulator improves the duration of substance release and provides a more constant release of the substance compared to unpredictable release rates obtained when the formulations systems did not contain the modulator.

Abstract: Disclosed is the compound 6-vinyldecanal and its use as a sex pheromone synergist. The invention also includes a composition of matter, comprising 6-vinyldecanal and an agriculturally acceptable carrier. The invention further includes a composition suitable for attracting insects, comprising 6-vinyldecanal and an insect sex pheromone, as well as traps containing such a composition.

Abstract: The invention relates to fatty acids conjugated to amino acids and their derivatives that elicit the production and/or release of plant volatiles compounds which attract and/or retain beneficial insects and deter herbivorous insect feeding. These conjugates also induce plants to increase production of pharmacologically important compounds such as taxol, increase fragrance of flowers, and increase production of plant essential oil. The invention also relates to methods for isolating the compounds from herbivorous insect oral secretions and to chemically synthesizing the compounds and their active derivatives.

Abstract: This invention relates to difunctional telechelic linear non-crosslinked polyolefins without pendant chain branched groups. The polyolefin compounds of this invention are useful for preparing high molecular weight polyesters, polyamides, polyureas and polyurethanes of high density without branching of the polymer chains, and with low permeability to gases and solvents.

Abstract: A catalyst and process is described for aromatizing one or more C.sub.3 to C.sub.6 saturated hydrocarbon to a product low in methane and essentially containing ethane or ethane and propane and aromatic hydrocarbons. A partially sulfided, Pt/Re loaded, essentially hydrogen-form, crystalline aluminosilicate molecular sieve exhibiting the MFI structure and having a Si/Al ratio between about 40 and about 600 is shown to have an excellent catalyst lifetime and favor low methane production, high conversion and high selectivity to benzene, toluene and xylenes and ethane or ethane and propane.