Abstract: Methods and apparatus for processing eggs based upon a characteristic such as gender are provided. Material is extracted from each of a plurality of live eggs, the extracted material is assayed to identify eggs having the characteristic, and then eggs identified as having the characteristic are processed accordingly.

Abstract: A support belt device for allowing a user to walk or run on a treadmill without holding on to the treadmill handle. The support belt device includes a panel. The panel includes a first end, a second end, a front side, a back side and a peripheral edge integrally coupled to and extending between the front side and the back side. A strap that includes a first end and a second end is securably attached to the backside of the panel. A pair of coupling members is designed for coupling the first and second ends of the strap to the handrail of the treadmill.

Abstract: To reduce the level of contamination of processed poultry, pathogen-free or nearly pathogen-free birds must be delivered to the processing plant. Therefore, it is important to prevent and/or reduce early contamination and spread of Salmonella in poultry. An in ovo method of treatment with a defined microbial preparation and an antibiotic to reduce colonization of newly hatched chicks by enteropathogenic microorganisms is described.

Abstract: Selection of mutant methanotrophic bacteria capable of efficiently degrading halogenated hydrocarbons typically found in numerous wastewater sources is described. The mutants are distinguishable from parental strains in having a unique resistance to the presence of copper while exhibiting unusually high degradation rates toward trichlorethylene. Methylosinus trichosporium A.T.C.C. 55314 strains are particularly good sources of the described mutants which may be obtained using a new method of selection and screening. The disclosed microorganisms may be immobilized on various matrices and are particularly adaptable for use in bioreactors. Further, the methanotrophic bacteria have antibiotic resistance to streptomycin or rifampicin B.