Abstract: A hand actuated pick-up tool including an elongated hollow shaft having distal and proximal ends; first and second flexible grip members at the distal end of the hollow shaft for grasping an object; a center strap extending from the grip members interiorly within the shaft; and a handle located on the proximal end of the shaft. The handle includes a trigger mechanism for drawing the center strap rearward in order to actuate the grip members, where the trigger device includes a channel for receiving and releasably retaining the center strap. The center strap is detachable from the trigger mechanism, and the handle includes an aperture allowing access to the trigger device channel and the center strap, and enabling the center strap to be inserted and withdrawn through the aperture, permitting replacement of the center strap.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for continuous, non-invasive determination of cardiac output which processes a sequence of non-invasive cardiography signals which are quantitatively dependent upon cardiac output within a computer system and associated neural network capable of generating a single output signal for the combined input signals, wherein the neural network applies weighting factors determined during a training phase to force the output signal to match the known value of cardiac output determined by invasive means and reports the single output signal as the determined value of cardiac output.

Abstract: Methods and materials are provided for the improved production of gel beads useful for encapsulating plant reproductive units.

Abstract: Novel azulenic retinoid compounds and therapeutic compositions are disclosed, along with method for their production and use as anti-cancer and cancer-prevention agents. The compositions of the present invention will also find use in treating dermatological disorders such as acne and psoriasis, as well as dermatologically-related conditions such as repair and effacement of wrinkles.

Abstract: Immunogenic components are recovered from pathogenic bacteria grown on semi-defined, serum-free media in purified forms that are useful as veterinary acellular vaccines and include both polysaccharides as well as proteins. Recovery is accomplished by homogenizing the cells; precipitating unwanted cellular compounds such as nucleic acids using a quaternary ammonium salt to form insoluble ionic complexes; treating the resulting supernatant with a hypersaline solution to dissociate any residual ionic complexes; and concentrating and dialyzing the supernatant to remove the ammonium and chloride salts and various unwanted components derived from the culture medium.

Abstract: A new and distinct anthurium cultivar named Kalapana is characterized by its red-green, broad heart-shaped spathe carried above the foliage on a long, erect peduncle. The slightly reclining spadix is yellow to orange, turning white with maturity. Kalapana is resistant to anthracnose (spadix rot) and is tolerant to the systemic phase of bacterial blight.

Abstract: Manila grass (also South Japanese grass; Zoysia matrella L.) usually completely withers at the leaf part in winter in an area where frost occurs. The present variety of Manila grass is characterized by the ability to maintain green leaves (evergreen) in a whole year, a trait which has not been observed in other Manila grass varieties.The general characteristics of the present variety include somewhat straight grasses, slender leaf blades, and vividly green leaves, as well as dense greens which can be maintained in all seasons. The variety is somewhat resistant to turfgrass rust disease and is also resistant to usual pests, thereby reducing the cost of pesticides. In addition, the frequency of sprinkling, fertilization, and trimming can be reduced, so that labor can be saved in cultivating the variety.