Abstract: The invention concerns an in vitro process for altering the insect host range (spectrum) of pesticidal toxins. The process comprises recombining in vitro the variable region(s) (non-homologous) of two or more genes encoding a pesticidal toxin. Specifically exemplified is the recombining of the variable regions of two genes obtained from well-known strains of Bacillius thuringiensis var. kurstaki. The resulting products are chimeric toxins which are shown to have an expanded and/or amplified insect host range as compared to the parent toxins.

Abstract: The invention concerns novel hybrid pesticidal toxins. These toxins are expressed as the fusion protein of a chimeric gene. Specifically exemplified is a novel B.t. hybrid toxin. These novel toxins have increased toxicity against target pests. The invention also concerns a process for preparing a hybrid virus having an altered insect host range.

Abstract: The invention concerns an in vitro process for altering the insect host range (spectrum) or increasing the toxicity of lepidopteran active B.t. crystal protein toxins. The process comprises recombining in vitro the variable region(s) (non-homologous) of two or more genes encoding lepidopteran active B.t. crystal protein toxins. Specifically exemplified is the recombining of the variable regions of two genes obtained from well-known strains of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki. The resulting products are chimeric toxins which are shown to have an expanded and/or amplified lepidopteran insect host range as compared to the parent toxins.

Abstract: The invention concerns novel hybrid pesticidal toxins. These toxins are expressed as the fusion protein of a chimeric gene. Specifically exemplified is a novel B.t. hybrid toxin. These novel toxins have increased toxicity against target pests. The invention also concerns a process for preparing a hybrid virus having an altered insect host range.

Abstract: The invention is a process for controlling the expression of heterologous genes from lac-operated promoters by removing the CAP binding site and lac promoter from the lac operon. Illustrated is the fusion of the lacZ, Y, and A genes of the lac operon to the 3' end of the lacI structural gene. This elimination of the natural regulatory elements of the lac operon results, advantageously, in the production of lac operon gene products in a constitutive mode from the lacI promoter.

Abstract: A novel hybrid B.t. toxin gene toxic to lepidopteran insects has been cloned. The DNA encoding the B.t. toxin can be used to transform various prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes to express the B.t. toxin. These recombinant microbes can be used to control lepidopteran insects in various environments.

Abstract: A combination ear protector and communications headset particularly adapted to the rugged, lightweight, convenience needs of aircraft ground crew members that are required to work in a hazardous noise environment. The headset includes two earplug-type transducers that function as a combination ultrasensitive microphone and speaker which are automatically inserted into the user's ears when the invention is disposed for use, thereby sealing the interior of the ear from ambient noise. In the ear protection mode of use, the headset is quickly and easily convertible to communications usage.

Abstract: A combination ear protector and communications headset particularly adapted to the rugged, lightweight, convenience needs of aircraft ground crew members. The headset includes a noise cancelling microphone mounted directly on the headband where disposition either before the user's mouth or in an out-of-the-way on-top-of-the-head position is possible. In the ear protection only mode of use, the headset is disclosed to be optimally clean and unencumbered, but is quickly and easily convertable to communications usage.