Abstract: A variational inference engine for probabilistic graphical models is disclosed. In one embodiment, a method includes inputting a specification for a model that has observable variables and unobservable variables. The specification includes a functional form for the conditional distributions of the model, and a structure for a graph of model that has nodes for each of the variables. The method determines a distribution for the unobservable variables that approximates the exact posterior distribution, based on the graph's structure and the functional form for the model's conditional distributions. The engine thus allows a user to design, implement and solve models without mathematical analysis or computer coding.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of substantially pure N-((S)-(-)-.alpha.-methylbenzyl)-3-(S)-(4-fluorophenyl)-1,4-oxazin-2-one hydrochloride, which comprises selectively crystallising the (S,S)-diastereomer as the hydrochloride salt from a mixture of the (S,R)- and (S,S)-diastereomers in an organic solvent, and collecting the resultant crystalline product.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a process for the preparation of a compound of formula (I): ##STR1## wherein R.sup.1 is a C.sub.1-6 alkyl or arylC.sub.1-4 alkyl group; and R.sup.2 is a hydrogen atom, a halogen atom, or a group selected from C.sub.1-6 alkyl, CF.sub.3 or C.sub.1-6 alkoxy substituted by C.sub.1-4 alkoxy; which comprises reacting an anhydrous or hydrated glyoxal of formula (II) with a compound of formula (III): ##STR2## in the presence of an acid.

Abstract: A fishing rod holder having a hip plate made of thin, flexible plastic, with a cylindrical tube, open at its top and bottom, attached to the hip plate. The tube slopes, from its bottom to its top, both forwardly and outwardly from the hip plate and supports a fishing rod, with the reel of the rod hanging and being supported on the top edge of the tube. When the hip plate is worn on a user's belt, the tip of the rod, and the hook, are located forwardly and to the side of the user, keeping them out of harm's way. The tube can be slidingly detachable from the hip plate and can be made in various forms to hold different kinds of fishing rods.