Abstract: Laser welding and annealing is accomplished by using a single laser and a single automated fixture that secures a workpiece at the focal point of a laser beam for welding and removed from the focal point for annealing without requiring alignment and positioning operations for each of the functions performed.

Abstract: There is provided a tissue cell culture medium for the growth of pathogenic T. Pallidum organisms wherein the virulence of said organisms is maintained over many subculture passages.

Abstract: There are provided novel fluorogenic substrates comprising a ketoside formed between an N-acyl neuraminic acid and a highly fluorescent material containing a phenolic grouping. The presence of neuraminidase is detected by contacting the aforementioned fluorogenic substrate with a sample suspected of containing neuraminidase. Neuraminidase, if present, cleaves the ketosidic linkage, releasing the fluorescent material which is then detected by known methods. There is also provided a novel and efficient method of preparing such fluorogenic substrates utilizing cadmium carbonate as a catalyst.