Abstract: A wastewater treatment method and system based on inoculating a bioreactor at startup with an integrated methanogenic aerobic single sludge with no additional inoculations thereafter to achieve anaerobic, aerobic, and/or anoxic treatment of industrial or municipal wastewater.

Abstract: A stretch-forming apparatus includes a main frame which carries a die enclosure between jaw assemblies. An insulated die is mounted in the enclosure. A method of forming a component includes placing a workpiece in the enclosure, heating the workpiece to a working temperature using electrical resistance heating, and then stretching the workpiece against the die. The method is particularly useful for titanium workpieces.

Abstract: A water sampling apparatus is disclosed having a water inlet and a water collecting scoop. A pump, in fluid communication with the water inlet, draws a water sample from a body of water through the water inlet. A plurality of testing units, in fluid communication with the pump and the water inlet, determine characteristics of a the water sample. The plurality of testing units are contained within an instrument module. A plurality of electrical components, in communication at least with some of the plurality of testing units, generates data signals concerning the characteristics of the water sample. The plurality of electrical components are contained within a computer module. A computer, in communication at least with some of the plurality of electrical components, collects the data signals generated by the plurality of electrical components and provides the data signals both to a local database and also by satellite transmission to a remote central data base.

Abstract: The invention provides methods of detecting shikimic acid comprising the steps of: oxidizing shikimic acid with periodic acid or a reagent comprising periodate and periodic acid; adding a strong base to generate a chromophore; stabilizing the chromophore with sulfite; detecting the presence of the chromophore; and optionally quantifying the amount of the chromophore. The methods of the invention can be performed directly with tissue extracts, preferably plant tissue extracts.