Abstract: The present invention relates to methods, devices and systems for associating consumable data with an assay consumable used in a biological assay. Provided are assay systems and associated consumables, wherein the assay system adjusts one or more steps of an assay protocol based on consumable data specific for that consumable. Various types of consumable data are described, as well as methods of using such data in the conduct of an assay by an assay system. The present invention also relates to consumables (e.g., kits and reagent containers), software, data deployable bundles, computer-readable media, loading carts, instruments, systems, and methods, for performing automated biological assays.

Abstract: The subject invention pertains to a process for preparing a fluid absorbent polymer wherein an ethylenically unsaturated monomer mixture is dispersed as droplets in an inert organic phase containing a hydrophobic suspending agent, such droplets being polymerized to form polymer particles having a hydrophobic surface, the improvement comprising blending the polymer particles with a hydrophilic material in the absence of an organic solvent, such as to render the hydrophobic surface hydrophilic.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for encapsulating and solidifying spent ion exchange beads contained in a container to form an ion exchange bed with a solidification resin without the necessity for applying shear in the bed by an external force such as by a mixing impeller. A solidification resin is flowed through the ion exchange bed by plug flow to intermix with and encapsulate each ion exchange bead therein. The resin is cured to form a uniform, solidified monolith of said ion exchange beads in said container. When the ion exchange bed contains free water, the process also effects the removal of substantial portions of the free water and also emulsifies and solidifies free water remaining in the bed.

Abstract: A bow dock for use in a two-step docking method to allow the repair or recement of a sonar-dome rubber window on a variety of classes of full draft vessels in harbors and other water of limited depth. The bow dock is provided with docking pedestals and alignment fenders which mate with docking brackets and fenders on the vessel to be docked. Each docking pedestal is provided with an electronic load cell to monitor the pedestal load during docking. The stern gate is fitted with an auxiliary gate and inserts designed to mate with the hull configuration of each vessel class. The stern gate is also provided with a slotted pivot hinge to facilitate sealing of the stern gate to the dock by hydrostatic pressure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a novel fire extinguishing composition comprising a heat and gas producing pyrotechnic composition comprising a binder and an oxidizer, and having dispersed therein a halogen containing fire extinguishing agent. The pyrotechnic, when ignited, thermally disseminates the fire extinguishing agent onto the fire.

Abstract: Disclosed is a solid propellant composition in the form of a munition which comprises an inorganic acid salt in intimate combination with the reaction product of a carboxyl bearing polymer and a glycidyl thioether. The composition is prepared by mixing the oxidizer, carboxyl containing polymer, and glycidyl thioether and curing the resulting mixture to a coherent grain. Unexpectedly, an excellent cure is achieved in the presence of the oxidizer.