Abstract: Methods, processes, apparatus, equipment and systems are disclosed for converting carboxylic acids into esters by esterification with alcohol and a dual catalyst. The method combines a homogenous and heterogeneous catalyst in one or more reactors to increase the conversion of carboxylic acids compared to using a homogenous and/or heterogeneous catalyst independently. The invention converts free fatty acids into esters by esterification with alcohol and a dual catalyst such that the reaction mixture contains sufficiently low free fatty acids and the amount of free fatty acids in the product stream leaving the process remains stable over time.

Abstract: A water recycling tank 40 for a filtration system 10 including a filter 30 and pump 20, the tank: (a) in communication with the filter and the pump; (b) that has a substantial height difference between the upper internal space and the lower internal space of the tank whereby the tank is adapted to permit water-borne sediments 47 to settle near the base 52 of the tank over time; (c) has a waste outlet 44 near or on the base; (d) has a recycling outlet 43 above the waste outlet and in communication with the pump; and (e) has an inlet 42 above the recycling outlet in communication with the filter.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to synthetic cytoskeletal active compounds that are related to natural Latrunculin A or Latrunculin B. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The invention is additionally directed to a method of preventing or treating diseases or conditions associated with actin polymerization. In one embodiment of the invention, the method treats increased intraocular pressure, such as primary open-angle glaucoma. The method comprises administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a cytoskeletal active compound of Formula I or II, wherein said amount is effective to influence the cytoskeleton, for example by inhibiting actin polymerization.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to synthetic cytoskeletal active compounds that are related to natural Latrunculin A or Latrunculin B. The present invention is also directed to pharmaceutical compositions comprising such compounds and a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The invention is additionally directed to a method of preventing or treating diseases or conditions associated with actin polymerization. In one embodiment of the invention, the method treats increased intraocular pressure, such as primary open-angle glaucoma. The method comprises administering to a subject a therapeutically effective amount of a cytoskeletal active compound of Formula I or II, wherein said amount is effective to influence the cytoskeleton, for example by inhibiting actin polymerization.

Abstract: The present invention provides methods and compositions related to the generation of host cells permissive for virus growth, particularly Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome (PRRS) virus.

Abstract: Methods and materials are provided for desiccated analogs of botanic seeds which are created by removing a portion of the water by slow or fast drying so that the plant tissue is no longer saturated with water. In a second embodiment, the meristematic tissue is encapsulated in a gel or polymer followed by dehydration. In another embodiment, the meristematic tissue is dehydrated prior to encapsulation in a gel. Protectants can be incorporated in the gel capsule. Meristematic tissue can be isolated from, for example, somatic embryos, zygotic and germ line sources.