Abstract: A novel transposen-based vector has been developed that enhances the integration of DNA into a host genome, particularly a eukaryotic genome. The novel vector has been used, for example, in the transformation of mammalian and fish cells with a gene coding for the inductive expression of the lytic peptide cecropin B, and in the production of transgenic fish containing a gene coding for the inductive expression of the lytic peptide cecropin B. This vector shows greater transformation efficiencies than do other means for transforming a gene into a eukaryotic chromosome. The novel vector allows the rapid and efficient transformation of a eukaryotic genome. Its use does not require the high level of skill needed for microinjections. Nor does it rely on homologous recombination events for a successful transformation, as do the prior methods of microinjection, electropotation, and lipofection. A novel modification of mini-transposons was made to adapt them to carry a gene of interest into a genome.

Abstract: Novel means have been discovered for increasing the resistance of a mammalian host (including humans) to diseases caused by intracellular bacteria, protozoa, and viruses. Novel means have also been found for treating tumors. Augmentation of the host's defenses against infectious diseases or tumors is achieved by "arming" the host's cells with a gene encoding the lytic peptide cecropin B. The host's own leukocytes, other cells involved in resistance to infection, or other cells are transformed, and expression of the gene is induced when needed to combat pathogens. Transfection of hematopoietic stem cells with the cecropin B gene will enhance disease resistance in mammals; and transfection of TIL (tumor infiltrating lymphocytes) cells or other cells can be used in the treatment of tumors.

Abstract: The present invention provides a chondroitinase attenuated Edwardsiella ictaluri bacteria. Further, this invention provides a vaccine comprising a protective amount of a chondroitinase attenuated strain of Edwardsiella ictduri bacteria and a method for protecting a fish from Enteric Septicemia comprising administering the vaccine to the fish.

Abstract: A high efficiency, free electron laser utilizing a circular relativistic electron beam accelerator and a circular whispering mode optical waveguide for guiding optical energy in a circular path in the circular relativistic electron beam accelerator such that the circular relativistic electron beam and the optical energy are spatially contiguous in a resonant condition for free electron laser operation. Both a betatron and synchrotron are disclosed for use in the present invention. A free electron laser wiggler is disposed around the circular relativistic electron beam accelerator for generating a periodic magnetic field to transform energy from the circular relativistic electron beam to optical energy.

Abstract: Means for producing a region of homogeneous magnetic field remote from the source of the field, wherein two equal field sources are arranged axially so their fields oppose, producing a region near the plane perpendicular to the axis midway between the sources where the radial component of the field goes through a maximum. Near the maximum, the field is homogeneous over prescribed regions.

Abstract: A high-speed terrestrial vehicle that is magnetically levitated by means of magnets which are used to induce eddy currents in a continuous electrically conductive nonferromagnetic track to produce magnetic images that repel the inducing magnet to provide primary lift for the vehicle. The magnets are arranged so that adjacent ones have their fields in opposite directions and the magnets are spaced apart a distance that provides a secondary lift between each magnet and the adjacent magnet's image, the secondary lift being maximized by optimal spacing of the magnets.