Abstract: The present invention provides a method for a rapid and efficient mycobacteriophage-based diagnostic assay for the presence of microbacteria that have mycolic-acid structures in their outer membranes, such as mycobacteria, using betaine-like detergents.

Abstract: An interconnect device for joining disengagable portions of a closed fluid circulating system is disclosed. The interconnect device is employed at any point in the system where it may be desirable to open or disconnect the system, for example to facilitate replacement of parts in a coolant system for high density electronic equipment applications. The interconnect device, since a fluid is involved, is arranged to automatically shut off fluid flow any time the mating members are separated thereby preventing loss of fluid in the circuit.

Abstract: A reinforced concrete floor is constructed from a continuous slab defining a major and planar supporting surface. The continuous slab is folded at at least one beam defining path across its planar supporting surface and preferably includes a right angle grid of such folds with downward peripheral folds at the slab edges and downward V-sectioned folds to interrupt the major and planar supporting surface. By maintaining a constant vertical slab thickness and keeping the angle of the folds between 30.degree. and 60.degree. with respect to the major supporting surface, it is possible to nest and even construct a continuous stack of floors having identical overlying structural members and dimensions, such as the structurally and dimensionally repetitive overlying floors of a high-rise building.

Abstract: At least one hollow core tower (preferably of a rectangular construction) is constructed from a foundation to a preselected floor supporting height. The tower is preferably joined at the top and slotted vertically along at least one sidewall from the base of the tower to a partial height of the tower. Preferably the tower is slotted along opposed sidewalls to form opposed C-shaped sections confronting one another at the slots. After at least the lowest and ground adjacent portion of the tower is constructed, floors are built about the tower at or near ground level. The floors include a section extending into or across the tower at the slot or slots which preferably includes a cantilevered or spanning horizontal floor strengthening beam. Typically, the floors are constructed and stacked one on another at their ground level with the bottom floor built first and lowest, and the top floor or roof built last and highest at the top of the ground supported stack.