Abstract: A rocker for extended, refrigerated storage or transport of fish sperm comprising a platform for sperm containers, drive mechanism, a power supply with an on/off switch or rheostat, and water resistant housing. This device imparts continuous rocking motion to the sperm containers so that the sperm is continuously oxygenated, thus increasing the viability of the sperm.

Abstract: A fluorochrome-marked sample is excited with the proper wattage and wavelength of light using an exciter or bandpass filter and beamsplitting mirror device. This causes the sample to emit light of a slightly higher wavelength than that of excitation. A subsequent barrier filter of the proper configuration placed between the sample and the observer allows this longer wavelength to be observed as fluorescence. This technique is particularly useful for viewing large biological specimens such as fish.

Abstract: An anchor for positioning in an opening of a surface includes a first generally flat portion having a slot formed therein, the slot having a longitudinal centerline; a second generally flat portion having a slot formed therein, the slot having a longitudinal centerline coincident on a line with the longitudinal centerline of the slot of the first flat portion, the second generally flat portion including at least one opening formed therein that defines an attachment ring; a hinge that connects the first and second flat portions at ends opposite open ends of the slots; a latch rotatably connected to the first flat portion; and a pin for releasably connecting the latch to the second flat portion to thereby secure the anchor in an unfolded position.

Abstract: Methyl halide contaminants are oxidized in a reaction chamber containing a methylotrophic bacterium through direct oxidation of the methyl halide contaminant. Methyl halides may be used as a disinfectant, with the remnant methyl halide contaminant oxidized through direct oxidation by the methylotrophic bacterium.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a fast response fluid flow control valve/nozzle that combines the technology used to rupture the frangible discs found in pressurized container-based fire protection/suppression systems with that found in fixed pipe spray/sprinkler systems. The apparatus' design projects a small, localized pressure wave at the underside of a frangible disc that is sufficient to rupture the disc in a very rapid manner. The present invention generally comprises an assembly of six primary components; a chamber base, a jet core threaded into the chamber base, a commercially-available rupture/frangible disc assembly, a disc retention ring, a nozzle port threaded onto the chamber base to hold the retention ring and rupture disc against the jet core and to tie the components together as a unitized assembly, and a pressure cartridge actuator.

Abstract: A matrix for water decontamination has an amended sorbant cellulose substrate with an iron (ferric) oxyhydroxide component and a component to sorb dissolved organic compounds retained by the cellulose substrate.

Abstract: A zero emmission device and method for delivering constant concentration of a vaporized substance allows for the regulated use of chemical or biological substances, such as calibrating, exposure or therapeutic substances.

Abstract: A pulse descriptor word (PDW) collector, including an extractor coupled to a computer, for passively collecting radio frequency (RF) data received by an electronic surveillance system (ESS). It is integrated into the ESS after a receiver (which converts RF pulse data to digitized PDWs) and parrallel to a presorter. Using two RAM circuits, the extractor forms a read/write loop to ensure that no PDWs are lost in the collection process. The extractor simultaneously writes onto one RAM while reading from the other RAM to the computer. The read/write functions of the RAMs are switched at predetermined interrupts. Collected data is stored on the computer hard drive. The computer controls the entire collection process by using data management software, graphical user interface software and sequencing software. Stored data is available on demand for analysis and is used to monitor, assess, and update the threat identification capabilities of the particular ES system.

Abstract: The present application discloses an open system architecture and software system for plug and play modular mission payloads in aerial vehicles. The improved software moves the control function of mission payloads away from the ground station and into the aerial vehicle. The plug & play web-based payload interface software resides in a payload interface controller in the vehicle, and this is networked via a uniform resource locator (URL) address to a ground control station. Consequently, when new payloads are added to the system, integration issues and costs are minimized.

Abstract: A MEMS type optical switch includes a substrate, the substrate including at least one groove formed therein; first and second optical fibers disposed in the at least one groove, the at least one groove including a widened portion for movement of at least one of the first and second optical fibers; a thermal actuator disposed adjacent one of the first and second optical fibers, the thermal actuator comprising at least one v-beam, a pair of anchors connected to ends of the v-beam, and a yoke disposed in a central portion of the v-beam.

Abstract: A degradable prepolymer for explosive and propellant compositions having increased hydrolyzability comprising at one —O—CH2—O— linkage within the backbone of the prepolymer. The degradable prepolymer is useful as a binder for explosive and propellant compositions.

Abstract: A gas generating process, which is for the continuous production of energy and hydrogen for rocket and other propulsion and is also for the continuous production of hydrogen, utilizes the reaction of metallic materials, particularly aluminum, with organic materials, particularly hydrocarbons provided as jet fuel, and with water or an oxidizer which is predominantly water. In comparison with related reactions, the reaction produces hot gases containing more hydrogen and the products have a lower temperature for the same specific impulse. The process incorporates organic liquids with metallic powders to produce desirable, lower molecular weight exhaust gas products; and the increased hydrogen is desirable for use with a fuel cell and in connection with propulsion of a super-cavitating underwater device. The process is advantageous in that a metal, in powdered form, and a hydrocarbon liquid may be provided together as a slurry or gel for effective metering.

Abstract: The present invention includes a salt compound having the chemical formula: having a tricyclic structure with the third ring having either six or seven atoms.

Abstract: The invention, as embodied herein, comprises a new composition that provides different outputs depending upon the level of stimulus supplied to the composition. More specifically, if the composition is subjected to a weak shock, the composition produces fragments that burn upon their surfaces. If the composition is subjected to a strong shock, the bulk of the fragments will initiate, and, depending upon the make-up of the fragments, an explosive, propellant, or pyrotechnic, a different output will result.

Abstract: A method of removing a canopy from a cockpit of an aircraft comprising providing an airbag in the cockpit adjacent the canopy; inflating the airbag; and as the airbag inflates, applying a force to the canopy from the inflating airbag to thereby jettison the canopy.

Abstract: A non-/low-toxic, non-hypergolic, propellant formulation generally comprising metal nanoparticles, such as boron, aluminum, or carbon, and one or more fluoro-polymers mixed in in particulate form. The present invention takes advantage of the increased surface area provided by nano-sized metallic particles to enhance the metal's combustion efficiency, or ignitability. The inclusion of fluoro-polymers also aids in increasing the combustion efficiency of the metallic nanoparticles due to the presence of halogenic oxidizers. The thermal degradation of a halogenated fluoro-polymer additive in the propellant combustion zone serves to release halogens, thereby improving the combustion of the metallic nanoparticles and increasing the propulsion system's energy output. The present invention's formulation is safe to store and handle, environmentally-friendly, and may be economically manufactured to provide for widespread, cost-effective use.

Abstract: Disclosed herein is a modular, replacement chassis stock system for an existing firearm's operating mechanism possessing a simple design and incorporating durable, commercially available components. The system comprises a chassis assembly with up to three integral mounting rails, a top rail, a replacement operating rod guide, a telescoping buttstock assembly, and a buttstock/grip mount assembly. The present invention may be used to replace the standard stock of an M-14 rifle (or copies thereof, such as the Springfield Armory M1A) such that the barrel is held in perfect alignment with up to five Mil Std 1913 pattern mounting rails. The telescoping buttstock assembly is adjustable in length via the use of a thumb lever release and includes an adjustable cheek-rest, an optionally adjustable buttpad, and a pistol grip. Auxiliary devices may be attached to the chassis stock system via the buttstock/grip mount assembly located above the pistol grip.

Abstract: A high temperature combination delay element and ignition composition contains a polymeric silicone component, an oxidizer component and a high temperature metal component.

Abstract: A method of sealing an optical fiber in a microchip includes providing a device microchip, a top microchip and an optical fiber; forming a groove in at least one of the device microchip and the top microchip; coating metal on the optical fiber; depositing metal on the groove and top surfaces of the device microchip and the top microchip; depositing solder on the top surface of at least one of the device microchip and the top microchip; placing the optical fiber in the groove; placing the top microchip on the device microchip; and reflowing the solder to form a hermetic seal.

Abstract: Chemical compounds having a bis(triazolo)triazine structure, including complexes and salts thereof, may be useful in either an intermediate or final product.