Abstract: A method and apparatus for detection of multiple target nucleic acids and/or antigens such as hormones, antibodies, or nerve agents in a sample, involves presenting the sample to a plurality of reporter binding sites wherein each reporter binding site comprises two partially hybridized molecules. A first of the two hybridized molecules is bound to the binding site and is complementary to a target nucleic acid or antigen, and it will therefore hybridize to the target nucleic acid or antigen and cause the release of the second hybridized molecule into the sample. The second hybridized molecule comprises a reporter nucleic acid sequence, which uniquely identifies the target nucleic acid or antigen. Subsequent PCR amplification of the unique reporter nucleic acid sequence using labeled primers results in multiple labeled copies of the unique nucleic acid sequence.

Abstract: A roller slide apparatus for mounting heavy equipment on support structures and which allows safe repositioning of the equipment for servicing and repair includes a lower plate assembly connected to a support structure, an upper mounting plate connected to the equipment, and a bearing assembly connected to both the lower mounting plate assembly and the upper mounting plate for facilitating movement of the upper mounting plate from a first operative position where the upper mounting plate is substantially superimposed over the lower mounting plate assembly to a second operative position where the upper mounting plate is moved away from the lower mounting plate assembly. Locking devices for maintaining the upper mounting plate in either the first or second operative positions, includes flanges formed on the mounting plates and extensions that slide into holes formed in flange or plate elements.

Abstract: A system for detecting gunshots includes an input device including a microphone for converting acoustic noises into signals and amplifiers for amplifying the input signals, a threshold detector for receiving the amplified signals and comparing the signals with a predetermined threshold value and for producing an output signal when the threshold value is exceeded. A pulse width detector is connected to the threshold detector for producing an output signal only if the width of the threshold detector output signal is within a predetermined range of values. A pulse count detector is also connected to the threshold detector for producing an output signal when the level of the threshold output signal is above a peak threshold level or the number of threshold level output signals that exceed a threshold level are less than a preset limit. An output device indicates that a gunshot has occurred only when signals are received from the pulse width detector and the pulse count detector during a sampling period.

Abstract: A rotator for holding and rotating a steel shipping container includes a n frame and a cradle frame attached to the main frame to allow relative rotation between the main frame and the cradle frame under the power of a hydraulic jack or the like. The container is secured to the cradle frame while the cradle frame is horizontal, and compressed air is supplied to the jack to tilt the cradle frame and the container for refurbishing. Pins are provided to hold the cradle frame in both the horizontal position and the tilted position.