Abstract: A method of reducing or inhibiting the contraction or communication of viral upper respiratory illnesses is proposed. Application of a virucidal preparation containing one or more organic acids (e.g. malic acid) with one or more surfactants (e.g. sodium C14-C16 olefin sulfonate) in a carrier agent (e.g. propanediol) to the nasal cavity of well individuals will reduce the chance that they contract a viral upper respiratory illnesses including coronavirus and influenza. Application of said preparation to the nasal cavity of individuals with a VURI will reduce the chance they transmit the illness by reducing self-contamination of their hands when touching their nose. The preparation is most effective when applied with a clean finger or applicator two or three times daily.

Abstract: A method for mitigating against a clutter source or other interferer in a high precision radar is disclosed. The clutter source or interferer may be a wind farm. The method includes positioning a plurality of relatively low resolution radars, such as low cost marine navigation radars, in or about the interferer, and fusing data from them together, to produce object positional data of increased accuracy. One or more of the radars may be adapted to have a radiation beam pattern directed more towards the vertical, and such adapted radars may advantageously be located more centrally within the interfering region. Data from the individual radars may be fused in any suitable manner, and other information, such as ADS-B broadcasts may be included. Data relating to aircraft may be supplied to operators to supplement air traffic control, and air defence radars, and data relating to shipping around sea based wind farms supplied to vessel traffic system radar operators.

Abstract: A novel method of preventing or inhibiting the contraction or communication of viruses which cause the common cold is proposed. Application of a virucidal ointment containing one or more organic acids (e.g. malic acid) with or without a surfactant (e.g. sodium C.sub.14-C.sub.16 olefin sulfonate) in a carrier agent (e.g. petrolatum) to the nares of well individuals will reduce the chance that they contract illness with the viruses which cause colds. Application of said ointment to the nares of individuals with a cold will reduce the chance they transmit the illness by reducing self-contamination of their hands when touching their nose. The ointment is most effective when applied with a clean applicator multiple times daily.

Abstract: An improved interface between a TEOS or silane nitrous oxide dielectric layer and a noble metal film such as a platinum film is provided by etching an upper surface of the dielectric layer prior to depositing the metal film thereon. The interface exhibits increased adhesion compared to similar interfaces formed without an etch of an upper surface of a dielectric layer prior to metal film deposition.