Abstract: This invention concerns a process for the addition of formaldehyde to the &agr; carbon atom of lactones for the production of &agr;-methylenelactones, and specifically &agr;-methylene-&ggr;-butyrolactone.

Abstract: A cup holder mechanism mountable to an armrest of stadium or theater seating operable between a compacted position and an expanded position. The cup holder mechanism comprises a base substantially contoured similar to a portion of the armrest, and provides support for a base of a container when placed thereon. A top member is coupled to the base and has an aperture for receiving the container therein. The top member is movable between the compacted and expanded positions. An intermediate member is coupled between the top member and the base member to provide support for the top member when placed in the expanded position. Also included is a lock for inhibiting displacement of the top member once placed in at least one of the positions. The cup holder mechanism provides support for a spectator's arm on the armrest when placed in the compacted position, while at the same time: providing support for the container when the mechanism is placed in the expanded position.

Abstract: A sealing device for minimizing the leakage of toxic or radioactive contaminated environments through a biological shield along an opening through which a flexible component moves that penetrates the shield. The sealing device comprises an outer tubular member which extends over a length not less than the maximum longitudinal movement of the component along the opening. An inner sealing block is located intermediate the length of the component and is positioned in the bore of the outer tubular member to slide in the bore and effect a seal over the entire longitudinal movement of the component.

Abstract: Complexes of platinum and palladium contaning organotin ligands are useful as catalysts in dimerizng butadiene. Exemplary in trns-chloro(triphenoxytin)bis(triethylphosphine)platinum(II) of the formula PtCl(P(C.sub.2 H.sub.5).sub.3).sub.2 Sn-(OC.sub.6 H.sub.5).sub.3.