Abstract: The invention provides systems and methods for determining discounted rates for insurance on and financial products relating to transgenic traited crops as compared to their traditional, non-traited counterparts. Certain methods of the invention involve generating comparison data contrasting the yields of transgenic traited crops to their traditional non-traited counterparts. The distribution of the differences between the transgenic and traditional yields is measured. The degree of correlation between the transgenic yields and the differences between the transgenic and traditional yields is measured to create a novel method for assessing mitigation of abiotic and biotic stresses by transgenic crops. A probability distribution function is fit to a traditional rate structure, and a distribution for the transgenic crop yield is determined. The discounted premium rate is determined from the probability function, and a discount rate factor is determined.

Abstract: A foldable wheeled stand is provided for supporting a motor driven pipe threading machine during operation thereof, for transporting the machine from one location to another, and for storing the machine during periods of non-use. The stand includes an upper support portion on which the machine is mounted, and a scissors-type foldable leg assembly providing a lower support portion by which the upper support portion and threading machine can be elevated and lowered relative to an underlying support surface. Elevating and lowering is achieved through a crank actuated jackscrew arrangement. The lower support portion includes a pair of wheels, whereby the stand, when folded, can be pivoted relative to the wheels to an inclined angle at which the stand and the threading machine mounted thereon are supported by the wheels for movement along the underlying surface.