Abstract: A metabolically active biological component having mixed function oxidation activity. e.g., microsomal P-450 oxidase enzyme complex, is effective in the presence of NADPH and moisture when dispersed in a thin film of a generally neutral hydrophilic film-forming binder. e.g., gelatin, to convert a broad spectrum of carcinogenic substances, into metabolic intermediates, which can be detected, preferably by a colorimetric indicator present in the binder film or an adjacent binder film and undergoing a visible color change. The film or films can be carried, e.g., as spots by a suitable support. e.g., glass or plastic sheet forming a direct-acting self-contained badge-type indicator. The colorimetric indicator is preferably a chemically reduced dye precursor of a polyarylmethane dye or analog thereof, e.g., pararosaniline or malachite green.

Abstract: A modular biosensor system for chemical or biological agent detection utilizes electrochemical measurement of an ion current across a gate membrane triggered by the reaction of the target agent with a recognition protein conjugated to a channel blocker. The sensor system includes a bioresponse simulator or "biochemical switch" module which contains the recognition protein-channel blocker conjugate, and in which the detection reactions occur, and a transducer module which contains a gate membrane and a measuring electrode, and in which the presence of agent is sensed electrically. In the poised state, ion channels in the gate membrane are blocked by the recognition protein-channel blocker conjugate. Detection reactions remove the recognition protein-channel blocker conjugate from the ion channels, thus eliciting an ion current surge in the gate membrane which subsequently triggers an output alarm.

Abstract: Subdivided coal, oil shale or tar sands is extracted under non-thermally destructive conditions with a solvent liquid containing a compound having the general formula: ##STR1## where R, R.sub.1, and R.sub.2 are each hydrogen atoms, lower alkyl (C.sub.1 -C.sub.4) groups, or phenyl groups; provided that the compound has a decomposition temperature higher than the temperature of the extraction, and the extraction temperature is below the softening or decomposition temperature of the material being extracted.