Abstract: A process and catalyst for the in situ generation of hydrogen via the microwave irradiation of a ruthenium chitosan composite catalyst has enabled the convenient reduction of nitro compounds in aqueous medium.

Abstract: Targeted sequencing of genetic regions that differ between two DNA preparations uses genomic fragment enrichment. This method can be used to study genetic variation among closely related species and microbial communities, particularly for identifying sources of fecal pollution.

Abstract: A reactor produces a surface corona for emitting UV light and for the production of ozone by passing air or oxygen through the surface corona. The emitted UV light activates a photocatalyst coated on a surface facing a surface with embedded electrodes which generate the surface corona. The photocatalyst is a thin film of nanoparticle TiO2 with primary particle size of 0.02 to 0.2 ?m was deposited on a substrate by a flame aerosol method. The method combines ozonation and photocatalysis to provide effective and efficient oxidation of alcohols and hydrocarbons to value added products. The method can also be used for air and water cleaning.

Abstract: Targeted sequencing of genetic regions that differ between two DNA preparations uses genomic fragment enrichment. This method can be used to study genetic variation among closely related species and microbial communities.

Abstract: A 22 kD sperm protein, SP22, correlates with fertility and predicts fertility in males. The protein can be assayed to detect decreases in fertility resulting from exposure to toxicants and pollutants which are known or suspected to decrease fertility. In an antibody is generated to this protein, the antibody recognition by sperm in an epididymal sperm sample or ejaculate would reflect the fertility of the sample. This antibody can be used as a contraceptive to inactivate sperm, screen for toxicity, select animals for artificial insemination, and select men for assisted reproductive technologies. The protein itself can be inactivated by gene knockout, which is another approach to contraception, or the protein can be added to sperm from infertile men to make fertility techniques more feasible.

Abstract: The power efficiency of an electric motor driven load including an adjustable speed drive is improved through use of a fuzzy logic controller to provide a power efficiency signal. A fuzzy rule base controls sequential power changes based on a determination of the effect of previous changes to meet load demands on a reduced power input basis.

Abstract: A method of diminishing the amount of chlorinated organics released to the atmosphere in the incineration of wastes which includes injecting calcium-based sorbents into the flue gas to react with HCl to form calcium-chlorine compounds to remove the HCl from the flue gas and prevent it from forming the chlorinated organics. The flue gas carries the sorbent from the injection zone to the reactive temperature zone quickly enough such that the sorbent is not exposed to temperatures which would degrade the effectiveness of the sorbent, the reactive temperature zone being in the range of 300.degree. C. to 900.degree. C.