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Query optimization is a computationally intensive process, especially for complex queries. We present here a tool, called PLASTIC, that can be used by query optimizers to amortize the optimization cost. Our scheme groups similar queries into clusters and uses the optimizer-generated plan for the cluster representative to execute all future queries assigned to the cluster. Query similarity is evaluated based on a comparison of query structures and the associated table schemas and statistics, and a classifier is employed for efficient cluster assignments. Experiments with a variety of queries on a commercial optimizer show that PLASTIC predicts the correct plan choice in most cases, thereby providing significantly improved query optimization times. Further, when errors are made, the additional execution cost incurred due to the sub-optimal plan choices is marginal.

Establishment of an efficient protocol for regeneration and genetic transformation is required in banana for the incorporation of useful traits. Therefore an efficient method has been developed for somatic embryogenesis, plant regeneration and transformation of Cavendish banana cultivar Robusta (AAA). Embryogenic cell suspension culture (ECS) was established using immature male flowers. Percentage appearance of embryogenic callus and distinct globular embryos was 10.3 and 11.

This paper examines the basic influence of corrosion on bond strength at the steel–concrete interface and the associated slip and cracking. A nonlinear finite-element model is developed to account for the effect of corrosion on deterioration of the bond. Deterioration of the mechanical interaction between the corroding reinforcing steel and the concrete is modeled with the nonlinear finite-element program ABAQUS. The contact pressure normal to the steel–concrete interface is reduced when the concrete cracks, which occurs along with a decrease in the cross-sectional area of the steel bar and the decrease of the friction coefficient between the steel and the concrete. The loss of contact pressure and the decrease in the friction coefficient with the mass loss of steel bars are evaluated using pullout test specimens with different levels of rebar corrosion. Finally, the relationship between the loss of bond strength and the mass loss of the steel rebar is established. The model gives reasonably accurate predictions of bond strength for three independent experimental studies. Key words: bond, concrete, corrosion, mechanical interaction, reinforcing steels, slip, steel-concrete interface.

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Xanthium indicum is an important medicinal plant traditionally used in Bangladesh as a folkloric treatment. The current study was undertaken to evaluate thrombolytic, anthelmintic, anti-oxidant, cytotoxic properties with phytochemical screening of methanolic extract of X. indicum leaves. The analysis of phytochemical screening confirmed the existence of phytosetrols and diterpenes. In thrombolytic assay, a significant clot lysis was observed at four concentrations of plant extract compare to the positive control streptokinase (30,000 IU, 15,000 IU) and negative control normal saline. The extract revealed potent anthelmintic activity at different concentrations. In anti-oxidant activity evaluation by two potential experiments namely total phenolic content determination and free radical scavenging assay by 2, 2-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH), the leaves extract possess good anti-oxidant property. In the brine shrimp lethality bioassay, the crude extract showed potent (LC50 1.3 μg/mL) cytotoxic activity compare to the vincristine sulfate as a positive control (LC50 0.8 μg/mL).