Abstract: Fiber distribution characteristics such as the bulk average orientation of fibers in composite fibrous materials can be evaluated based on the variation in the speed with which polarized electromagnetic signals propagate through the material as a function of angle. The electromagnetic radiation may comprise terahertz radiation. The composite fibrous materials may be wood-containing materials such as oriented strand board or particle board.

Abstract: Fibre distribution characteristics such as the bulk average orientation of fibres in composite fibrous materials can be evaluated based on the variation in the speed with which polarized electromagnetic signals propagate through the material as a function of angle. The electromagnetic radiation may comprise terahertz radiation. The composite fibrous materials may be wood-containing materials such as oriented strand board or particle board.

Abstract: This application relates to para-quinol derivatives, such as analogues of manumycins, aranorosins and gymnastatins. This application also relates to methods of synthesizing and using the para-quinol derivatives. In one embodiment of the invention a compound having the chemical structure (I) is provided wherein X1 and X2 are carbon atoms either joined by double bond or joined by a single bond and comprising constituents of an epoxide ring or a hydroxyethylene moiety; X3 and X4 are carbon atoms either joined by double bond or joined by a single bond and comprising constituents of an epoxide ring; R1 is selected from the group consisting of branched alkyl chains, unbranched alkyl chains, cycloalkyl groups, aromatic groups, alcohols, ethers, amines, and substituted or unsubstituted ureas, esters, aldehydes and carboxylic acids; and R2 is selected from the group consisting of H, OH and NHR3 wherein R3 is a nitrogen protecting group.

Abstract: The invention provides an apparatus for interacting with a computer system comprising a processor coupled to a display. The apparatus comprises a body configured to be moveable by a user. The body has a position sensor therein for producing a main position signal. A plurality of probe members are connected to the body. A plurality of transducers are coupled to the probe members for producing probe motion signals representative of positions of the probe members. A plurality of actuators are coupled to the probe members to selectively apply force to the probe members. A control system is coupled to the position sensor, the transducers and the actuators for receiving the main position signal and the probe position signals and interacting with the processor in order to produce control signals for controlling each of the probe members.