Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A kit and methods for determining the gender of an unborn fetus. The kit comprises a container holding a solid composition therein, the solid composition including a basic salt and a transition metal separated by a filler and in which an atmosphere in the container is substantially free of water.

Abstract: A kit for determining the gender of an unborn fetus. The kit comprises a container holding a solid composition therein, the solid composition including a basic salt and a transition metal. An atmosphere in the container is substantially free of water.

Abstract: A solid composition for determining the gender of an unborn fetus, comprising a first layer comprising a basic salt, a second layer comprising a transition metal, and a third layer comprising a neutral filler separating the first and second layers.

Abstract: A method is provided for culturing cochineal insects. In accordance with the method, a medium is created (101-109) from a mixture comprising a plant or cactus additive and a polymeric material. The medium is then inoculated (111) with a species selected from the group consisting of the genus Dactylopius.

Abstract: A non-invasive gender determination method and kits for accomplishing the same are disclosed herein. The present invention is based on difference in testosterone levels in the maternal body fluids of females carrying male fetuses relative to that of females carrying a female fetus. The present invention does not need specialized equipment and can quickly and rapidly detect the presence of testosterone in maternal urine or serum and thus indicate fetal gender. The kits and methods disclosed herein are useful for breeders of single-fetus mammals, veterinarians, and interested parents.

Abstract: A kit for determining the gender of an unborn fetus. The kit comprises a container holding a solid composition therein, the solid composition including a basic salt and a transition metal. An atmosphere in the container is substantially free of water.

Abstract: Lamp oil compositions including methyl palmitate, methyl stearate, myristyl alcohol, an alcohol with less than six carbons, preferably ethyl alcohol, and fragrance. Also disclosed herein are lighter fluid compositions which include methyl laurate, methyl stearate, ethyl alcohol and fragrance.