Abstract: A system and method for automatically simulating the affect of a plurality of factors on the cost of goods sold (COGS) resulting from changes in the allocation of goods to be sold in a plurality of predetermined markets. A predetermined plurality of markets are defined, each of which is allocated a default percentage of total goods to be sold. A plurality of production sites are then defined, their associated cost factors determined, their respective output assigned to predetermined markets, and the weighted, average unit COGS for each market is then calculated. A defined market is then selected for sensitivity simulation and its associated sales allocation is iteratively decremented by a predetermined percentage for reallocation to other markets. Each market's weighted, average unit cost is recalculated after each iteration, and once reallocation is completed, the global, average unit COGS is calculated.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to methods of inhibiting bacterial growth and reproduction. In particular, the present invention relates to methods of inhibiting bacterial growth comprising contacting bacteria with aqueous solutions of silicon.

Abstract: A system and method for automatically simulating the affect of a plurality of factors on the cost of goods sold (COGS) resulting from changes in the allocation of goods to be sold in a plurality of predetermined markets. A predetermined plurality of markets are defined, each of which is allocated a default percentage of total goods to be sold. A plurality of production sites are then defined, their associated cost factors determined, their respective output assigned to predetermined markets, and the weighted, average unit COGS for each market is then calculated. A defined market is then selected for sensitivity simulation and its associated sales allocation is iteratively decremented by a predetermined percentage for reallocation to other markets. Each market's weighted, average unit cost is recalculated after each iteration, and once reallocation is completed, the global, average unit COGS is calculated.

Abstract: A method of calibrating a laser utilized in a laser element cutting system utilizing a mechanical gauge having pairs of metal pads formed in rows and columns on a substrate material. The height of the metal pads varies in each row with each column having the same height. The depth of the substrate material under the metal pads varies. The mechanical gauge is subjected to a laser cut process and the mechanical gauge is illuminated by a light source. The light shining through positions of metal pads indicates that the metal pad and the underlying substrate material have been cut. The depth of cut is determined from the thickness of the metal layer and the thickness of the substrate material that have been cut.