Abstract: Methods, systems, and apparatus, including medium-encoded computer program products, for computer aided design with connectivity filtering during shape synthesis, include: a three-dimensional modeling program configured to provide disconnection detection, shape synthesis, and/or connectivity filtering during shape and/or topology optimization. The three-dimensional modeling program can be an architecture, engineering and/or construction program (e.g., building information management program), a product design and/or manufacturing program (e.g., a CAM program), and/or a media and/or entertainment production program (e.g., an animation production program).

Abstract: It is possible to operate a wireless system, such as a CDMA system, in a more efficient manner by employing a statistical approach for setting power targets for reverse loop transmission. Unlike present methods for setting such targets a figure-of-merit quantity such as the frame error rate need not be measured to set the reverse loop transmission power for a wireless unit. Instead the target is set on a statistical basis established by sampling. Real time measurement of a quantity-of-merit is not required. A statistical approach produces among other things a decreased sensitivity to rapid changes in transmission conditions.

Abstract: Bis(dinitroalkyl)acetals and formals having the formula (1) particularly bis(2,2-dinitropropyl)acetal and bis(2,2-dinitropropyl)formal are produced by oxidative nitration of compounds having the formula (2): preferably via a sodium or other alkali metal, or alkaline earth metal, salt of compounds of Formula (2). Certain of the compounds of formula (1) are novel. All of the intermediates of formula (2) are novel and form another aspect of this invention, as does a process for their production by reacting an aldehyde with a nitroalkanol. The process can readily produce a mixture of the dinitro compounds known as BDNPA and BDNPF (also known as A/F) using the non-explosive intermediates, BNPA and BNPF, both of which are novel.

Abstract: A swab device for collecting a biological sample from an individual is disclosed, the swab device comprising a head having a swab material for trapping a biological sample thereon and a body comprising means for moving the head relative to the body. Also disclosed is method of obtaining a biological sample from an individual which method comprises contacting at least a portion of the head of a swab device with a surface of the individual, the head of the swab device being moved relative to the body of the swab device whilst the head of the device is in contact with the surface.

Abstract: A method of selecting for analysis a sample of a biological material anisotropically distributed on a substrate, said method comprising the steps of directing a beam of radiation onto said substrate, said radiation being selected to interact with said anisotropically distributed biological material to an extent corresponding to said anisotropy; measuring said interaction at plurality of locations on said substrate; and selecting said sample by reference to said measurements. An inspection apparatus for selecting for analysis a sample of a biological material anisotropically distributed on a substrate is also disclosed.

Abstract: A sampling assembly (30) for removing a portion of a sample (40) impregnated in designated areas of a medium such as filter card (37) supported in a frame (39); said assembly comprising a punch and die mechanism having a punch (32) movable into a hole (34) provided in the die (33); locating means (31) for positioning the punch and die mechanism relative to designated areas of the filter card; and a raised section (35) provided on said die and arranged to directly support the filter card medium adjacent to the portion of the sample (40) during removal of said portion from the filter card (37).