Principles of Genetic Engineering Technology

Genetic Engineering Technology has made possible the manipulation of genetic information and has been described as the new revolution in science. It is responsible for the development of new industrial applications and areas of basic research. In the pharmaceutical field, alone, it has applications to the production of natural and synthetic drugs (proteins/enzymes) at levels that cannot be achieved by conventional methods. It can be applied diagnostically to detect disease or the potentiality of disease. Not only is it being used to improve industrial processes for the production of current market drugs, but will also generate novel drugs for the future. There is also the potential that this technology will correct defective genes in humans with genetic diseases. In addition, this technology has numerous applications for agricultural, chemical and other industries. Genetic engineering is not a single technique but represents a collection of interrelated techniques, including recombinant DNA technologies. The principles of genetic engineering will be highlighted in this review.     

The Beith Ha'Arava 5 MW(e) Solar Pond Power Plant (SPPP)—Progress report

Design, construction, and operation experience of a 5 MW(e) solar pond power plant is presented. Novel features include extraction of pond surface water to an auxiliary pond for condenser cooling, a low-cost liner consisting of polyethylene and clay, and a series of high-velocity, low-fluid-volume jets for gradient formation and repair. Measured plant efficiencies and total costs are presented and used to estimate costs of future plants.