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"Why are those fireworks so loud?"
"Is it brighter than normal outside?"
"How long have I been asleep?"
"Please stop whispering so loudly."
Dan's gotten a taste of my grumpier side this weekend as I've spent the last three days attempting to declare my independence from coffee by kicking the caffeine habit cold turkey.
It hasn't been pretty. As I said yesterday, I've turned into a bit of an object lesson for C.S. Lewis' take on the willfully damned, "shrunk and shut up in themselves…their fists are clenched, their teeth are clenched, their eyes fast shut."
When I mentioned my plight on Facebook, several friends wanted to know why I'd want to quit drinking something that all the studies show is generally good for you. While I don't intend to quit coffee altogether, I'd like to kick my three-cups-a-day habit for these reasons:
1. I hate being dependent on coffee when I travel, and with several trips coming up—including one to a foreign country—I thought it would be wise to cut back so that I don't wake up every morning panicked about where I'm going to get my coffee. I quit before I went to India back in 2006, and was glad I did, as coffee and clean water with which to make it were not always readily available. No need to experience these nasty withdrawal symptoms on the road.
2. Dan's been bugging me about cutting back on caffeine for years now, and since this year is all about submission….well, it's material, folks!
3. It's important to me to buy fair trade coffee, to know that the farmers who harvested the coffee beans I take for granted were paid a living wage. But when the local grocery store is out of fair trade options (as is often the case here in rural Tennessee), I break down and buy the regular ole' vacuum-sealed canister brand because I "need" my coffee fix. If I can break my addiction to coffee, I can wait to enjoy the fair trade options when they are available and I won't feel guilty about spending more money on the fair trade stuff because I won't need as much of it. I don't want to remain addicted to a product that, when mindlessly consumed, keeps millions of people in poverty.
4. I spend $15-20 a month on coffee, and I'd probably spend more than that if there was a Starbucks within a 50 mile radius of my home. That is more than half the cost of sponsoring a child through World Vision! It's amazing how little changes to our routine can powerfully affect the lives of other people. One of my goals as a Bolivia Blogger is to remind myself and my readers that we may be tying our own hands when we insist that we can't afford to help those in need.
5. In this month in which I focus my attention on justice, I've been reexamining my concept of need. What do I really need? And what do I only think I need? How can I eliminate some of the excess in my life to make room for more giving? I can't tell you the number of times I've insisted that I "need" my daily coffee. But after one admittedly miserable weekend, the headache has subsided and the "need" is no longer there. It was mostly in my head…and my bloodstream.
Have you ever tried to quit caffeine? Any advice?
Is there a habit in your life that, if eliminated, would free you to live more justly and give more generously?
What are some other things that we think we need...but that we probably don't?
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Classic car inspection?
Hey everyone,
I've been looking around for a '62 Ford Thunderbird, however the only one that I've found so far that matched my criteria and price point is in a different state. The vehicle looks clean from the photos and description, but I'm a little weary of buying a classic car w/o seeing it personally.
I've heard of some companies that do special classic car inspections (AiM Mobile Inspections, etc.) and I was wondering if anyone had ever used them or a similar service before. The price is reasonable, especially considering the amount I'll have to invest in the car itself.
Just wondering if anyone had used these guys (or similar) before and had any feedback. Thanks!
I've been looking around for a '62 Ford Thunderbird, however the only one that I've found so far that matched my criteria and price point is in a different state. The vehicle looks clean from the photos and description, but I'm a little weary of buying a classic car w/o seeing it personally.
I've heard of some companies that do special classic car inspections (AiM Mobile Inspections, etc.) and I was wondering if anyone had ever used them or a similar service before. The price is reasonable, especially considering the amount I'll have to invest in the car itself.
Just wondering if anyone had used these guys (or similar) before and had any feedback. Thanks!
Very good idea to have the car inspected.
Personally I am biased somewhat against "nationwide" appraisal services, because a) all they do is broker out the appraisal to someone they have never met and b) they pay the agent far less than they charge you, thereby not encouraging the agent to do a very good job.
I do this service locally for northern California, and I wouldn't work for the peanuts they pay inspection agents. I don't feel I could be thorough enough.
HOWEVER, it's probably better than nothing at all, if that's the best you can get.
A good source for inspectors would be Hemmings Motor News (www.hemmings.com). Look under Services Offered. The location of the appraisers is shown at the end of their ads, with a state code, like FLA or CA.
Be sure to ask the inspector what he's going to do for you and whether he uses "narrative reports" or "checklist reports". I would not personally pay for a checklist report--I think they are nearly useless.
Fees will vary, but I'd guess that between $175 and $400 should cover all travel, gas, inspection time, and time to send you photos (at least 40 of them) and a written report by e-mail. Also this fee should include some phone time.
Under no circumstances would I let a dealer or other "biased" party inspect the car. The inspector should have no ties to the seller.0
You might also consider contacting the local chapter of the VTCI (Vintage Thunderbird Club International). You might be able to track down a regional judge that specializes in '62 T-Birds. Natually, you'd have to pay them, but who better to do the inspection? Of course, you run the risk that the seller and the VTCI rep are fellow club members and are friends. Whoever you hire, make sure you make arrangements to get the car to a lift so the undercarriage can be inspected.0
I'd certainly consult club members about authenticity but never about value---they tend to overvalue the cars because they are not impartial.0
I would agree with that. I thought he was looking for inspection ideas only.0
Well invariably if someone is inspecting the car he is going to be asked about the value, and this is where a club member can get you into trouble. He has a vested interest, a bin full of spare parts, buddies in the business, and you have none of that. So his idea of value could be radically different than the "real world". The real value of a club member's car is when HE tries to sell his.
To be fair, now and then a club member can be realistic, but usually only after his higher prices have been ignored :P0
Thanks Shiftright,
I agree with you for the 'nationwide' services. I was actually considering AiM Mobile Inspections because I believe they are the only (or one of the few) who actually don't broker out the inspections-- they have inspectors all around the nation, so I think that prevents you from overpaying/paying a middle man. They do a combination of checklist + narratives regarding test drives, etc.
I definitely don't want the dealer to inspect the car that would be absurd (especially if I was paying for it). I feel like no matter what going with the 3rd (mutual) party inspection is going to be the way to go.0
Very timely thread creation rvalverde....I was just trolling around looking for the same advice, and was about to start my own thread!
Specifically, does anyone have any opinion of or experience with the following national firms that I've found:
• Alliance Inspection Management (AIM)
• Auto Appraisal Group (AAG)
• Automobile Inspections LLC
In the research that I've done so far, I've found AIM Mobile Inspections to be the least expensive for classic car inspections ($179), however I thought that the sample report on their website was not that good. Came across as a total checklist report, with very little narrative.
AAG is a bit more expensive, at $350 plus potentially $0.60 per mile if applicable. Unfortunatley, they do not offer a sample report on their site, however personally I liked the description of what they offered per their completed report. Additionally, their final report actually offers an appraisal, which is nice. I think that charging an extra $50 for a 'Value Certificate' if you purchase the car being inspected is a bit of 'nickel and diming', but it's a nice option nonetheless.
Automobile Inspections LLC also offers inspection services, which are categorized into 4 groups based on the car being inspected (Classic post-war cars would be inspected using the Blue Report, for example). Their service starts at $379, plus $1 per mile outside 25 miles from their nearest office. They, like AAG, offer an appraisal add-on of sorts that they call an 'Opinion of Value' for $25. If you want it on paper, it's $50. Their website only offered a picture of a hardcopy sample report fanned across a table (poor presentation to potential customers if you ask me), but from what I could see of it it looked like a lot of checklists as well, though maybe I'm wrong.
Anyway, any users of these guys out there that can chime in????0
I think your best bet is to scan the appraisers list in Hemmings Motor News, and talk to a real person who is also the one who is going to look at the car.
There's a big advantage to chatting with the inspector WHILE he's looking at the car, for instance, and also have a phone conference after you've received the report, so that you can ask more questions.
I agree, checklist reports are a waste of time and money.0
Hey thanks for doing some research diorije,
AAG sounds interesting, I wish they had an example of their reports. I don't really see the point of a "Value Certificate" either (unless it comes with some kind of warranty.
So far I'm still liking AiM Mobile Inspections just because I actually know what I'm getting (example reports) and it has a low cost. I think you're right though there could be more narrative but I think I heard somewhere that you can speak on the phone with the inspector which would definitely be worthwhile...0
One point of caution: I posed this same question to the gentleman who runs the lovefords site a day or two ago, and he told me that going into an outside inspection, make sure that you know as much about that particular model as possible. That's because while an inspection company may be able to tell you about the car's condition, his experience has been that, in general, they are very bad about knowing what makes a particular model stock, what belongs on the car and what doesn't, etc.0
Well of course. You can't have an inspector who is a specialist in every model. Not only would it require an army of specialists who will get very little work, waiting for the next '57 Chevy to look at, but it would mean that every inspector who wanted to survive would have to train to be an "authenticator" of every make he is likely to encounter---he'd need a PhD.
It's really the obligation of the buyer to guide the inspector on certain items of authenticity, of the seller to have documentation, and the obligation of the inspector to provide extensive photos to help the buyer determine authenticity.
If you wanted a renowned expert to authenticate and date-code every piece on your 60s Mopar, be prepared to spend at minimum a few thousand dollars to have that done.
Authentication is a tedious, labor intensive process and really is not part of an inspection procedure.
Of course, any good inspector will record data plate codes (tags), and if visible, engine #s.0
A 1962 T-Bird isn't some exotic, complicated car.
I think any good shop should be able to give it a good looking over and maybe antother trip to a local body shop would be a good thing too.
I would try to find a shop that has a couple of "old timers" who may have worked on these cars when they were still on the road,
The 390 engines were pretty rugged and so were the Crusimatic transmissions. Probably a comnpression test and a good road test should be done.
These weren't "bad" cars per se but they did have some problem areas to watch out for.
They wore out front end suspension parts quickly. Look for worn out upper control arm shafts and lower bushings. They also ate ball joints and idler arms.
Even when they were new, they had constant vacuum line problems. Make sure the wipers work and the heater and air conditioning work. Make sure the emergency brake auto release works.
Check the operation of the slide away steering wheel and make sure the power window switches are operational.
These were very heavy cars and until 1965 they used drum brakes that never lasted long.
I'm not trying to scare you away. I actually like these cars but they need to be driven carefully. Do NOT try to push one around a corner in a hurry and be gentle on the brakes.
The body shop can check for rust and signs of previous collisions.
I just wouldn't pay some "expert" a fortune to inspect a car like this. I don't think that would be necessary.0
And I don't think too many people would really care if a 1962 T Bird was 100% authentic. Do you?0
The degree to which authenticity matters varies a lot from car to car, that is very true.
Ironically, the buyer of a 1978 Corvette cares much more than the buyer of a 1978 Ferrari.
For a T-Bird, I think the only buyer who would care is one looking for a special or rare set of options.0
nick625 Posts: 1Jeff,
I'm not familiar with the inspection firm you mentioned but I am familiar with WeGoLook.com. They don't do expert inspections, but for a lot less money they will send an independent representative to contact the seller and arrange to meet to make sure the car (or whatever it is) actually exists. They take current digital pics, check the VIN, etc. and provide them to you along with a report via email. If you want them too look at something specific they will. If you order the Custom report they can even arrange transport or deliver the item to the shipper for you. I have a friend who owns several classic cars who thinks this is great.0
I too have heard of companies that do this and it is a useful service but, when it comes to buying a $35,000 Chevelle I need someone who KNOWS what they are looking at, like if it's been in an accident, is full orf rust and bondo or if the numbers match etc. not just someone who can tell me whether the car is there or not. That service you mentioned has its uses but its not something I would condider using for classic cars. I'd rather spend more money and get expert knowledge.
mechatech Posts: 1Has anyone ever used www.cars-on-line.com?
They are about middle cost $275, the sample report looks good (checklist and comments) and there are up to 100 photos taken.0
Not bad, really and 'better than nothing" -- but again, these are brokered inspectors, so you have no idea of the competency of the person doing the inspection, and cars-on-line doesn't either. Also, the values they state are not supported by any evidence---they seem pulled out of a hat. On what basis would you follow the value advice of these reports?
"JJ's Auto Pre-Purchase Inspections does not do the inspection for you. JJ's Auto Pre-Purchase Inspections is a company that facilitates the completion of your inspection through its affiliates, inspectors, or their contractors. The inspections are placed with an independent inspection service or contractor in the area where the vehicle is located."
I also found many of the comments rather useless:
Which tells you what exactly?
Another problem I see here is this:
"Some orders will take between four days and up to a week. "
This simply is too long if the car is, in fact, a good buy. You'll end up out of luck.
Also the $275 is for a local inspection without travel. When you add a 100 mile trip, the cost goes way up.0
Automobile Inspections LLC in Hartford Connecticut... Ha!!!!
Absolutely hopeless. Had a Rolls-Royce inspected by them and they had no idea. Said they were experts but they had NEVER ever done a Rolls-Royce before. Automobile Inspections LLC claim to be experts in inspecting cars for pre-purchase but have totally unqualified inspectors who "guess" their way thru an inspection on classic cars. I had one done recently on a late 60s Rolls-Royce and I ended up spending 3 hours with an inspector explaining to him how different things on the car worked and were "supposed to be". I am a Rolls-Royce restorer of 30 years and the inspector not only did not understand the workings of the car and its various features but wanted to argue and dispute my understanding of them.
Needless to say the report was incorrect in its finding, was mis-leading and provided a very inaccurate over-view of the car. In this case, the car was a 100% original quasi show-car falling within the upper 10 percentile of examples and yet Automobile Inspections LLC, concluded it to be just a "good" car for driver purposes. This may not seem bad but the report seriously questioned the value of the car for an avid collector who engaged their services.
The guy who rocked up was driving a rusty 1990 Chevy pick-up with under-sized rims. What more can I say! He didnt even drive the car because he was "scared to".
Basically, they go thru a car and list anything they DON'T know as a fault, get paid their $350 and walk away with a "no responsibility" escape clause for any errors. Both the buyer and the seller agree that the reports are "arm-long" simply to protect Automobile Inspections LLC from any recourse from buyers (sellers are emphatically denied a copy and in fact any and all copying of a report is regarded as "theft of intellectual copyright" by Automobile Inspections LLC!) One has to ask what is the point, then, if no car gets sold because of such an over-cautious report that is not only incorrect but then cannot be shared, discussed or reviewed by any other party?!
When it comes to Classic cars, buyers want them as much as a willing seller wants to sell one. Classic cars are bought and sold out of "want", not "need". It is not like buying the next family car. What is the point of having an unqualified inspector carrying out an inspection on a car and erring on the side of negativity when he does not have knowledge on the car by providing a bad report. Who does this help? Only the inspection companies, perhaps, who get to do more reports because buyers and sellers do not conclude a deal. What a shame that such beautiful and stunning classic cars are not passed from one caretaker to another because of some ill-informed, uneducated and incompetent inspectors. I can only assume the ill-mannered personnel at Automobile Inspections LLC are most likely failures in their quest as mechanics in the real world and this is their "new job" - to scam a short-gain fee for their well below standard service. A not so lousy $350 at that! You would think for that price, they could do some internet research on the product or get a truly qualified person at that!
Automobile Inspections LLC - BUYERS and SELLERS beware.0
This would be a completely inappropriate company for cars like Rolls, Ferraris, or other specialized classics, IMO. Probably okay for pickup trucks and more or less modern cars or the more common older American cars that don't require careful authentication.
You simply cannot address the needs of a situation with rare, complex or historically significant classic cars by using a national inspection service that hires brokers unseen and uncertified.0
I'm sorry Mr. Siftright but you are quite wrong. At the risk of sounding like a cheerleader, you really shoud try them before passing judgement. As I said before I can only attest to my experience, but I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them whole heartedly.0
I wouldn't professionally recommend this *type* of inspection service to potential buyers of exotic or vintage foreign cars. It's not about so-and-so company, it's about the "type" of inspection service, of which the one you mentioned is just one--so I'm not singling them out, believe me. No brokered inspection service in this price range is probably qualified, IMPO. I do know what it takes to do this type of work on exotics and specialty foreign or rare muscle cars, and $350 can't do it adequately. No way, especially when the brokered agent and the national service are splitting the fee.
So I'm not attacking your favorite service. I'm offering skepticism that this type of low-end service can do Ferraris and the like. I think this is a reasonable objection.0
Hi Jeff the Chef......
I read your response with interest. No, its not "sour grapes" at all. I am not a dealer but a Rolls-Royce enthusiast and so whether this particular buyer bought the car or not, does not particularly phase me. What concerns me is that companies like Autombile Inspections claim themselves to be experts and they are far from it. And, so what happens, no-one gets the benefit of their inspection other than teh inpection company. Its like putting 2 useless lawyers on a case. Who are teh only winners?
Personally, I do not need to inspect any Rolls-Royce. I can tell entirely on my own but then, I AM AN EXPERT. That is my very point.
I only allowed the buyer to have an inspection becuase he said he wanted to check "the basics" and thats what I thought there would be. Not a detailed review by an inexperienced bafoon who had no idea (amongst several other things) that Rolls-Royces had brake pumps and thought the cold start pumping sound from these were worn lifters/cam-shaft. Then when I had to explain, he wanted to argue with me. Fortunately, in my case I have a show display engine mounted on a stand in my workshop and all the Rolls-Royce manuals at my disposal so I could explain to him what was "normal" and what was not. Only then, did he swallow his words but I am sure by that stage, I had "put his nose out of joint".
The bottom line is what someone mentioned in a post in this thread after yours. NO inspection company like this has the qualifications for classic and exotic cars and they simply should not promote themselves as such. They should stick to the domestic regular stuff because thats what they can do best. But dont tackle a task that you are entirely incapable of and then try to pretend you are!0
I guess "Shiftright" has captured it correctly. It's probably not about one company or the other but about them all generally. They are simply not qualified to cover such cars. I guess my complaint then really boils down to; "why do they pretend to?" It gives no one a benefit and surely does not help the inpsection company in the long run either.
For all those out there that need a Rolls-Royce inspected. Please give me a call!0
omarman Posts: 1,810"It doesn't matter if the car is a Mustang or a Maserati. The only difference that comes into play is the cost of labor and materials to put it right."
Hahaha! You've missed the point in every way it's been served to ya Chef! It's a waste of time and money to have an exotic car inspected by any other party than an experienced shop or qualified expert.
This is not an attack on your most-favored, online-car-appraising-guruDOTcom.
Edited to add: [insert winking Emotorcon here] Lately they don't show up when I post. hmmm.0
Hi Jeff..... You are correct. But, remember, I am speaking from the persepctive of the seller. The seller has "no say" in the inspection. If I am more qualified than the inspector and I have to try to teach him whilst doing the inspection which will most likely "offend" the actual inspector, what is the point??!!
The very reason of me posting my comments is so that buyers recognise that these inspections are only a little more than a guide and perhaps they should consider alternative methods for "inspections".
I certainly would not use one. I tend to think; if you are the type of person that needs to look at a car, go look at it yourself. I am not such a person - many photos from the seller will do, and a good conversation on the car will usually uncover all. You can usually tell by talking when a seller is "hiding something" as he will be nebulous with his answers.0
I think you are missing the point here. A Ferrari engine that needs work is a $30,000 to $60,000 dollar repair. Some Ferraris require engine-out periodic services that must be verified by log books. A Mercedes 560SL engine is $18,000, a Porsche Boxster $15,000 on up. A cracked front bumper on a Ferrari is $4000, a windshield on a Maserati perhaps $3000 on up. An automatic transmission on a newer Mini Cooper is $6800, and the symptoms for defects are quite subtle. The wrong engine # on a big block Mopar is a $10,000--$30,000 hit or more, and all Mercedes 230--280SLs have number coded body panels that must be correct, and must not have passenger car 280 cylinder heads retro-fitted.
I don't see how Hank the Chevy man is going to know anything about all this.
If you want a Ford F-150 inspected, then fine, any intelligent person with a pair of eyes can do it.0
Well you all have a point but there are a couple of issues. One, Ferrari Dealers will NOT do pre-purchase inspections on cars that didn't come from their facility and are likely to be biased about those that did. Two, even if you did find one that would, what exactly do you expect the mechanic to do? Start the engine, check oil pressure, listen for mis-fire or odd noises, check for smoke from the exhaust, possibly dump the codes, maybe a compression check on an older car and then test-drive to check the clutch, brakes cooling system etc. and to see how it performs on the street. The bottom line is he can only tell you how the car is on that day, he cannot tell you if it will throw a piston in 3 months without opening the motor up. Expert or not. He may have an edge by being aware of known issues with that particular model, but that information is typically available to a diligent buyer who researches on the internet. The key is to review the service/maintenance records as these will give you the best indication of the engines condition and potential short terms costs.
All of this can be done by a savvy buyer and a field inspector. Furthermore, what do you expect a mechanic to tell you about if the car was hit and fixed? Do you expect him to know how to check paint for blend or tape lines, factory chassis welds for repairs or other signs the car was taken to the track? I suppose in an ideal world you'd have the body and frame checked out by one person and the engine and mechanicals by another. From my perspective I believe that if you do your homework and have an unbiased knowledgeable individual inspect the car and document how it performs and looks, you are doing as much as you can to manage the risks involved in a long-distance purchase.0
You keep making 'THE POINT" in your own answers! Yes, IF the inspector evaluates the car on the day, then that is fine. But Automobile Iinspections (at least) DO NOT! They make assessments and draw incorrect conclusions on what they see/hear on issues they dont understand and so should refrain from doing so.
You can't "look" at a Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow and say that because you hear a tapping sound on start-up, that it is noisy valve gear/lifters. This is drawing an INCORRECT conclusion and is NOT an observation - it is drawing an "inference" based on knowledge of OTHER cars and not knowing a Rolls-Royce (Silver Shadows do not have a brake master cylinder but 2 brake pumps that are driven from the camshaft which make a "tap-tap-tap" noise when cold and on low pressure start-up). You cant "sound-test" the body panels for bondo as this too is "drawing an inference" and NOT an OBSERVATION (Rolls-Royce hoods, trunk and doors are aluminum so "sound" different"). Automobile Inspections LLC did this. Must I keep going on? I am an expert only because I have spent 25 years with Rolls-Royce and even then, I only claim to be an expert on 60s, 70s, 80s and 90s Rolls-Royce. Becuase I have considerable knowledge of these I dont claim to be an expert on a 1950s Wraith, for example. In fact I only know them in a cursory sense. However, Automobile Inspections say; "we know cars so we must know all of them".... How crazy is that?
When you make the comment; "do you expect a mechanic to tell you about if the car was hit and fixed? Do you expect him to know how to check paint for blend or tape lines, factory chassis welds for repairs or other signs the car was taken to the track?".... I absolutely agree! So they should try to! Automobile Inspections LLC, claim they can on Rolls-Royce! They cannot and do NOT know Rolls-Royce.
All in all said, if they did just a "general" inspection without drawing inexperienced conclusions they would be ok. But no, they want to prove "how clever" they are which only ends up proving how incompetent they are - no one wins.
I hope they read this thread.0
You are re-inforcing my point once again. A lot of Rolls-Royce buyers, for instance, do not know what to look for and whereas I understand that should be the basis for an inspection, they should not be MISLEAD by inspectors who are not in the know. Referring to my comments in my most recent previous post, if an inspector was to report to a potential buyer that a Rolls-Royce has noisy valve gear (which surely suggests it is worn), the buyer will most likely not buy the car or wish to pay significantly less. And yet, the reality is, there is nothing wrong with the valve gear.
So, the conundrum is; does the inspector NOT mention something he is not experienced in - probably not. But if he makes comment on something he has no idea about, that very clearly says he should not be inspecting that make of car to start with. In the legal system, I think that is referred to as a "non credible witness". And, as verdicts should be drawn "beyond reasonable doubt" THAT witness's testimony should be EXCLUDED.
The prosecution rests.0

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Jerry Redding (202) 720-4623
WASHINGTON, Feb. 2, 2007--The U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the availability of three National Animal Identification System documents for review and public comment.
These documents, including a Draft User Guide, a Program Standards and Technical Reference document and a technical specifications document for the animal tracking databases, are available on USDA's NAIS Web site at www.usda.gov/nais and in USDA's reading room.
"NAIS is a true partnership among states, industry, and USDA, and by working together, we have met our goal of having twenty-five percent of the Nation's premises registered by the end of January. However, we continue to seek our partners' input on the design and implementation of NAIS," said Bruce Knight, undersecretary of USDA's marketing and regulatory programs mission area. "The documents we are releasing today will further advance the dialogue on NAIS and guide our collaborative efforts as the program moves forward. We are committed to working together to build a system that works for everyone."
The Draft User Guide includes the most up-to-date NAIS information. It provides details on participating in the program and discusses NAIS' three components, premises registration, animal identification, and animal tracing. USDA initially posted the document in November 2006 with a request for comments and to date, has received valuable feedback. Publishing the Draft User Guide in the Federal Register expands the opportunities for interested parties to comment on the document.
The Program Standards and Technical Reference document supplements the Guide with a separate update for the data standards USDA established for NAIS information. The Program Standards serve as a reference for entities involved in the administration of NAIS (e.g., States/Tribes, certain industry groups, manufacturers, and others). The use of common data standards among these entities will ensure uniformity in the system.
USDA is also working with interested State and industry partners as they develop the third NAIS component, animal tracing. Industry, through private systems, and States will manage the animal tracking databases, or ATDs, that maintain the movement records of animals. USDA is developing the Animal Trace Processing System (ATPS) to allow authorized State and Federal animal health officials to request information from the administrators of the ATDs in certain situations. Throughout the past year, USDA has worked with stakeholders in an interim/development phase to define the complete requirements private and State systems will need to fulfill in order to integrate with the ATPS.
The Technical Specifications document released today outlines these requirements. USDA will establish formal cooperative agreements with interested organizations and States whose systems meet the technical specifications. The implementation (production) phase for the integration of such systems with the ATPS is targeted for spring 2007.
Notice of this action was published in the Feb. 1 Federal Register. USDA encourages all interested parties to submit comments on any of the three documents or other aspects of NAIS. Comments are now being accepted through the NAIS Web site email address firstname.lastname@example.com, or by mail to NAIS Program Staff, Veterinary Services, APHIS, 4700 River Road, Unit 200, Riverdale, MD 20737.
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App Review: 3000 Awesome Facts by Nikolay Nachev
by Dorothy on
May 3, 2009
Filed under Daily App Reviews, Educational, Entertainment
3000 Awesome Facts is a very interesting app that will keep you coming back for more. It is packed with tidbits of information. While not always very relevant to everyday life, the facts are all very interesting. They could be used as conversation starters or just interesting facts to surprise your friends with. With 3000 facts, you will never run out of things to say.
Currently when you open the app, one fact is displayed at a time. Each time you tap the screen, you get a new fact. The only thing I would like to see changed about the app is that I wish there were a way of searching the facts by topic or keyword. I know I will never remember everything I read and without a way to look them up again, I am at a loss. 3000 Awesome Facts is an ingenious app that is fun for all ages.
3000 Awesome Facts is $0.99 in the iTunes App Store.
Developer's Website: http://awesomefactsapp.com/


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The City of Round Rock has completed repaving work on Sam Bass Road from Meadows Drive to FM 3406. Final striping work remains to complete the project.
Work began on July 10 and was postponed temporarily due to heavy rains the week of July 15. The project was completed on time.
If you have questions about the project, call 512-218-5583.


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Don't miss out on the opportunity to turn you dream into reality. The CEI Business
Plan Competition is open to all WKU undergraduate and graduate students in good standing
who want the opportunity to turn their business ideas into money.
Beginning in 2008, the WKU business plan competition has consistently launched student ventures from dreams to reality. One of the first competitor's ventures is going strong and working in five states. Last year, over 70 student projects competed, an almost 200% increase over the year before. Cumulative prize winnings and awards to WKU students from the beginning of this initiative in 2008 are approximately $65,000.
Multiple ventures have gone on to be part of the WKU Student Business Accelerator which is a wonderful opportunity to get physical space, expert consultation and take your venture into reality. One venture has gone beyond the initial start-up phase and received $12,000 in initial funding and shipped over 30,000 production units in less than a year after starting. There is no application period, so come by the Center at any time.
If you're interested in the WKU business plan competition please stop by the Center for Entrepreneurship in Grise 234 and ask for more information. Detailed competition information will be mailed out in late January. Contestants will be automatically entered into consideration to represent WKU at the Kentucky State IdeaStateU competition held in mid-April of every year.
Here is the detail schedule of the Western Kentucky University Business Competition Plan 2014 :
Kyle O'Donnell (MBA Student)
Create a sustainable sock manufacturing company in Kentucky
Kyle O'Donnell (MBA Student)
Create a sustainable sock manufacturing company in Kentucky
Blake Wheeler, (Business Administration major)
Makes Kentucky State Roads safer high-technology Automotive Ignition Interlock Device Company
Willis Holmes (Industrial Education major)
Competed with his Internet Device, a more efficient replacement for desktop machines which would save electricity and money for K-12 schools
Wining ideas were awarded for business plans and concepts at both the graduate and undergraduate level.
Jacob Hildebrant
Higher Education Associates - Venture to provide quality control for online education.
Harold Maxwell
"Aqua Green" - Combined hydroponics and aquaculture operation; now entering the second year of operation.
Ben Arch and Nick Burnett
Impact Energy - Gas turbine electrical generation.
Elisa Levine
Looking Glass Bookstore - Combination café and bookstore
Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.


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Malaysia ETF Could be Next to be Impacted by Politics
Investors in the U.S. are not even three weeks removed from Election Day, but it is worth noting other investable countries will be holding elections in the coming months. Malaysia, which is expected to hold general elections in six months, is a prime of country that is easily accessible to U.S. investors.
The Asian nation is also a prime example of one that can easily be affected by domestic politics. To that end, the iShares MSCI Malaysia Index Fund (NYSE: EWM) is one country-specific emerging markets ETF investors will want to keep an eye on in the coming months.
Year-to-date, the iShares MSCI Malaysia Index Fund is up about 10 percent. That performance puts the ETF well behind comparable rivals such as the iShares MSCI Philippines Investable Market Index Fund (NYSE: EPHE) and the iShares MSCI Thailand Investable Market Index Fund (NYSE: THD). EWM has also lagged the SPDR S&P 500 (NYSE: SPY) by a decent margin.
In its favor, EWM has outperformed those ETFs tracking Indonesia, Southeast Asia's largest economy. Importantly, one reason EWM has likely lagged SPY is beta. As in EWM qualifies as a low-beta ETF. The ETF's beta against the S&P 500 is just 0.62, according to iShares data.
There is another reason to give EWM strong near-term consideration. Prime Minister Najib Razak, the incumbent, and his Barisan Nasional coalition are facing what is expected to be the tightest election in Malaysian history. Following the country's 2008 elections, Barisan Nasional lost its two-thirds majority in parliament, according to Reuters.
Translation: Malaysia has adopted a familiar tactic seen in U.S. That being the opening of government coffers by the party in power to stimulate economic growth in election years. Emerging markets ranging from China to Brazil have announced major infrastructure largesse this year, Malaysia's own infrastructure program has gone largely ignored by foreign investors.
The country's $444 billion Economic Transformation Program is aimed bolstering domestic demand and lifting personal incomes. Arguably, the program is also designed to keep Razak in power and increase support for the Barisan Nasional coalition.
Investors can reap the rewards of Malaysia's pre-election generosity because the ETF is significantly exposed to the nation's domestic economy. As is the case with many emerging markets ETFs, financial services names loom large in EWM, accounting for over 31 percent of the ETF's weight. However, industrials and consumer staples combine for nearly 26 percent of EWM's weight while discretionary names receive an allocation of nearly 10 percent.
To the government's credit, the spending initiatives appear to be having a positive impact. Malaysia posted second-quarter GDP growth of 5.4 percent. Investments made by the public and private sectors surged 26.1 percent, Reuters reported.
There are potential risks to the Malaysian economy and EWM itself. While the spending plan has been lauded by the international community, debt as a percentage of GDP in Malaysia has risen by more than a third since 2008. The country's debt-to-GDP of 53.4 percent at the end of the first quarter was more than 200 basis points higher than that of the Philippines.
That rate is dangerously high to the government's desired limit of 55 percent and it does put some burden on investors to ignore rising debt levels while embracing the theme of increased domestic consumption.
To this point, the spending gambit appears to have worked. Investors that can grab EWM in the $14.50-$14.60 area can bank on some decent capital appreciation, perhaps up to five percent or more, in the months ahead. They will also be compensated to wait as EWM features a surprisingly decent 30-day SEC yield of nearly three percent.
For more on Malaysia and ETFs, click here.
Posted-In: Long Ideas News Short Ideas Emerging Market ETFs Politics Events Global Intraday Update Best of Benzinga
© 2019 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.


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Volume 15 - 2019
No.1 January 2019
No.1 January 2019
Dynamic Time Series Reliability Analysis for Long-Life Mechanic Parts with Stress-Strength Correlated Interference Model
Reliability Modeling of Complex Machinery and Electronic Products based on the Identification of Vital Components
Reliability Evaluation of Uncertain Multi-State Systems based on Weighted Universal Generating Function
Network Delay-Weighted Least Squares Localization Algorithm with Taylor Expansion based on Acoustic Emission
High-Level Feature Extraction based on Correlogram for State Monitoring of Rotating Machinery with Vibration Signals
Adaptive Topology Analysis for Coal Mine High-Voltage Grid based on Node Coincidence and Incidence Matrix
No.2 February 2019
No.2 February 2019
Reliability Increase of Base Heating Prediction and Thermal Protection Methodology for Launch Vehicle Upper-Stage
Fuzzy Reliability Analysis and Optimization Design of Hydraulic System of Bale Carrier for Tie Arm Device
Structure Optimization of Solid Rocket Engine Vacuum Pouring Cylinder Cover based on Response Surface
Assessment Model for Operational Readiness Rate of Equipment System of System under Two-Level Support System
Establishing World Cultural Heritage Sites Resource Allocation System and Management System based on Neural Network Algorithm—A Case on Hailongtun Tusi Site
Artificial Intelligence Approach to Creative Data Manipulation for Optimisation of Livelihood Oriented Urban Planning and Management
Nonlinear Finite Element Analysis of Anchored Blind-Bolted Joints to Concrete-Filled Steel Tubular Columns
No.3 March 2019
No.3 March 2019
Detection Algorithm of Friction and Wear State of Large Mechanical and Electrical Equipment in Coal Mine based on C-SVC
Construction of a Massive Heterogeneous Minority Cultural Resource Integration Model based on Ontology
NRSSD: Normalizing Received Signal Strength to Address Device Diversity Problem in Fingerprinting Positioning
No.4 April 2019
No.4 April 2019
Feature Selection Combined Feature Resolution with Attribute Reduction based on Correlation Matrix of Equivalence Classes
Four-Layer Feature Selection Method for Scientific Literature based on Optimized K-Medoids and Apriori Algorithms
Fault-Section Location of Distribution Network based on Adaptive Mutation Shuffled Frog Leaping Algorithm
Detector Layout and Detection Probability Analysis for Physical Protection Systems of Nuclear Power Plants in Virtual Environments
No.5 May 2019
No.5 May 2019
Improved Algorithm for Non-Homogeneous Poisson Process Software Reliability Growth Models Incorporating Testing-Effort
Framework of Information Data Management Platform for Integrated Logistical Support of UAS based on Military Trade Mode
Optimization and Reliability Analysis of Movable Jaw Structure of Jaw Crusher based on Response Surface
No.6 June 2019
No.6 June 2019
Collision Avoidance Situation Matching with Vessel Maneuvering Actions Identification from Vessel Trajectories
Method based on Separation Confidence Computation and Scale Synthesis Optimization for Real-Time Target Detection in Streetscape Videos
Joint Power Allocation and Relay Selection Algorithm for Multiple-Antenna Terminals in Cooperative MIMO Systems
Applying an Improved Elephant Herding Optimization Algorithm with Spark-based Parallelization to Feature Selection for Intrusion Detection
Piecewise Combination of Hyper-Sphere Support Vector Machine for Multi-Class Classification Problems
Reliability Modeling and Analysis of Complex Multi-State Systems based on Weighted Triangular Fuzzy Numbers T-S Fault Tree
Simulation Method for Mission Reliability Assessment of Space Telemetry Tracking and Command System with Dynamic Redundancy
Improved Security for Android System based on Multi-Chaotic Maps using a Novel Image Encryption Algorithm
Trajectory Tracking Control of Underactuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicle in the Presence of Ocean Currents
Reliability Performance of Improved General Series-Parallel Systems in the Generalized Exponential Lifetime Model
No.7 July 2019
No.7 July 2019
Performance Modeling and Analysis of Refrigeration System of a Milk Processing Plant using Petri Nets
Question-based Methodology for Rating the Severity of Defects in Construction Through on-Site Inspection
Heuristic for Hot-Rolled Batch Scheduling of Seamless Steel Tubes with Machine Maintenance and Tardiness
Comparison of Fatigue Reliability Life of Telescopic Rod of an Eccentric Telescopic Rod Conveyor with and without Strength Degradation
Analysis of Meshing Performance and Fatigue Reliability of Main Reducer Transmission Device for Rail Conveyor
Fastening Function Reliability Analysis of Aircraft Lock Mechanism based on Competitive Failure Method
Combining Stochastic Grammar and Semi-Supervised Learning Techniques to Extract RNA Structures with Pseudoknots
Data Analysis of Hybrid Principal Component for Rural Land Circulation Management based on Gray Relation Algorithmic Models
Volume 14 - 2018
No.1 January 2018
No.1 January 2018
Vibration based Condition Monitoring of a Brake System using Statistical Features with Logit Boost and Simple Logistic Algorithm
CFD Analysis of Turbocharger Compressor to Study the Effect of Geometry Change on Surge and Performance of Compressor
A Sustainability Assessment on Sino-Foreign Cooperative Design Major and an Appraisal of the Innovative Application of MOOCS
Contour Extraction based on Circular Hough Transform for Forest Canopy Digital Hemispherical Photography
An Intelligent Discovery and Error Correction Algorithm for Misunderstanding Gesture based on Probabilistic Statistics Model
No.2 February 2018
No.2 February 2018
Relief Feature Selection and Parameter Optimization for Support Vector Machine based on Mixed Kernel Function
Evaluating Impacts of Financial Risks on Schedule Delays of International Highway Projects in Vietnam using Structural Equation Model
No.3 March 2018
No.3 March 2018
Comparison of Conventional Method of Fault Determination with Data-Driven Approach for Ball Bearings in a Wind Turbine Gearbox
Compressed Sensing Reconstruction of Remote Sensing Image Block based on Augmented Lagrangian Method TV
No.4 April 2018
No.4 April 2018
Net Primary Productivity Evaluation for Mao'er Mountain Forest Vegetation based on Cloud Computing and GIS
Cooperative Differential Evolution with Dynamical Population for Short-Term Traffic Flow Prediction Problem
An Improved Mutation Series Entropy-based Algorithm for Evaluation of Innovation Ability of Enterprises
T-Stability of the Euler-Maruyama Algorithm for the Generalized Black-Scholes Model with Fractional Brownian Motion
No.5 May 2018
No.5 May 2018
Reliability Assessment of Non-Repairable k-Out-Of-n System using Belief Universal Generating Function
An Improved Convex Programming Model for the Inverse Problem in Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy
Simulation on the Optical Field Characteristics of Grating Inscription in a Hybrid Microstructured Optical Fiber
Calculation Method of Short Term Flicker Severity Pst for Power System based on Atomic Decomposition and Real-Coded Quantum Evolutionary Algorithm
A Novel Color Encoding Fringe Projection Profilometry based on Wavelet Ridge Technology and Phase-Crossing
A Correlative Study of the Influence of Higher Vocational Students' Learning Behavior on English Effective Learning
Negative Correlation Incremental Integration Classification Method for Underwater Target Recognition
BotCapturer: Detecting Botnets based on Two-Layered Analysis with Graph Anomaly Detection and Network Traffic Clustering
No.6 June 2018
No.6 June 2018
Restricted Boltzmann Machine Collaborative Filtering Recommendation Algorithm based on Project Tag Improvement
Optimization of Particle Genetic Algorithm based on Time Load Balancing for Cloud Task Scheduling in Cloud Task Planning
A Causal Matrix-based Method for Key Process Identification: Case Study in Heavy Medium Coal Preparation
Model Test on Mechanical Properties of Glass Fiber Reinforced Plastic Mortar Pipes Culvert Under High Embankment
No.7 July 2018
No.7 July 2018
A Two-Stage Feature Weighting Method for Naive Bayes and Its Application in Software Defect Prediction
Predicting and Analysing E-Logistics Demand in Urban and Rural Areas: An Empirical Approach on Historical Data of China
Enhancing Subcellular Localization Prediction of Apoptosis Proteins by Ensemble SVMs with Random Under-Sampling
No.8 August 2018
No.8 August 2018
Key Process and Quality Characteristic Identification for Manufacturing Systems using Dynamic Weighting Function and D-S Evidence Theory
Grain Ration Consumption Forecasting based on Multivariate Regression Model Combined with Gliding Data Barycenter
Transaction Decision Making for Intelligent Distributed Units based on Blockchain as a Service (BaaS)
Reliability Analysis and Maintenance Optimization of Projection Spot Welding Machine in the Automotive Industry
Sequenced Switch Migration for Balancing Controller Loads in Large-Scale Software-Defined Networking
No.9 September 2018
No.9 September 2018
Hyperspectral Image Adaptive Denoising Method based on Band Selection and Elite Atomic Union Dictionary Learning
Performability Modeling for Cloud Service with Check-Pointing Mechanism Considering Hardware and Software Failures
A Study of Applying Fault-based Genetic-Like Programming Approaches to Automatic Software Fault Corrections
Reliable and Energy-Efficient Data Gathering in Wireless Sensor Networks via Rateless Codes and Compressed Sensing
No.10 October 2018
No.10 October 2018
Performance Improvements by Deploying L2 Prefetchers with Helper Thread for Pointer-Chasing Applications
No.11 November 2018
No.11 November 2018
Elderly Health Care Interventions under the Mode of Smart Sports Rehabilitation and the Background of Big Data
Contrast Enhancement of Illumination Layer Image using Optimized Subsection-based Histogram Equalization
Hotspots, Theme Structure, and Development Trends on Maker Education: A Quantitative and Co-Word Analysis
Prediction of Daily Pollen Concentration using Support Vector Machine and Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm
A Strongly Secure and Efficient Certificateless Authenticated Asymmetric Group Key Agreement Protocol
Recognition and Classification of High Resolution Remote Sensing Image based on Convolutional Neural Network
No.12 December 2018
No.12 December 2018
Residual Life Prediction of Long-Term Storage Products Considering Regular Inspection and Preventive Maintenance
Prediction of the Maximum Temperature of Sulfur-Containing Oil using Gaussian Process Regression for Hazards Prevention
A New Iterative Approach to Evaluate the Reliability of a Combined Consecutive k and v-Out-Of-n System
Assessment of Salvage Ability of Armored Salvage Vehicles based on AHP-Fuzzy Comprehensive Evaluation
Software Reliability Demonstration Testing Scheme of Prior Dynamic Integration Bayesian Method based on the Idea of Decreasing Function
Effect of Vertical Magnetic Field on the Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics of Conducting Gas in a Cylinder
A Risk-Free Protection Index Model for Multi-Objective Uncertain Portfolio Selection with Entropy and Variance Constraints
Risk Analysis of Subway Crossing Irregular-Plate Bridge and Technical Scheme of Controllable Active Pile Underpinning
Volume 13 - 2017
No.1 January 2017
No.1 January 2017
January 2017 - P1 - Numerical Investigation of the Inner Flow in Centralized Fluffs Collection using CFD
January 2017 - P4 - Non Informative Priors for the Stress-Strength Reliability in the Generalized Augmented Inverse Gaussian Distribution
January 2017 - P6 - Predicting the Effect of Nano-Structural Parameters on the Elastic Properties of Carbon Nanotube-Polymeric based Composites
January 2017 - P7 - Broken Rotor Bar Fault Diagnosis in VFD Driven Induction Motors by an Improved Vibration Monitoring Technique
No.2 March 2017
No.2 March 2017
March 2017 - P1 - Empirical Investigation of Airline Service Quality and Passenger Satisfaction in India
March 2017 - P3 - A Bayesian Estimation Procedure of Reliability Function for Lifetime Distributions
March 2017 - P6 - An Extension Graphical Duration Models Integrating Conditional Sojourn Time Distributions
March 2017 - P7 - Enhancement of Overall Equipment Effectiveness using Total Productive Maintenance in a Manufacturing Industry
March 2017 - P8 - A Review on Chemical and Mechanical Properties of Natural Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
March 2017 - P9 - Who Will Be the Next to Drop Out? Anticipating Dropouts in MOOCs with Multi-View Features
No.3 May 2017
No.3 May 2017
May 2017 - P1 - Classification of Various Wind Turbine Blade Faults through Vibration Signals Using Hyperpipes and Voting Feature Intervals Algorithm
May 2017 - P3 - On Throughput-Reliability Tradeoff Analysis of MIMO Channels under Generalistic Fading Scenario
May 2017 - P4 - Reliability Analysis of 6-Component Lattice Load-sharing Markov Repairable System with Spatial Dependence
May 2017 - SC71 - Performability Analysis of a Parallel Service Considering Multiple Types of Failures
May 2017 - SC68 - Simulated Software Testing Process Considering Debuggers with Different Detection and Correction Capabilities
No.4 July 2017
No.4 July 2017
July 2017 - P1 - Vibration Analysis of Shaft Misalignment and Diagnosis Method of Structure Faults for Rotating Machinery
July 2017 - P2 - Impact of Genetic Optimization on the Prediction Performance of Case-Based Reasoning Algorithm in Liver Disease
July 2017 - P3 - Fault Diagnosis in Flywheels: Case Study of a Reaction Wheel Dynamic System with Bearing Imperfections
July 2017 - P11 - Traffic-Aware Opportunistic Data Delivery Strategy for Urban Vehicular Ad Hoc Networks
July 2017 - P15 - A Multi-Agent Collaborative Model for Bayesian Opportunistic Channel Accessibility in Railway Cognitive Radio
July 2017 - P21 - LAPDK: A Novel Dynamic-Programming-Based Algorithm for the LAP-(D, k) Query Problem in Wireless Sensor Networks
July 2017 - SC53 - Case Studies for Bearing Fault Diagnosis based on Adaptive Myriad Filter and Alpha Stable Model
No.5 September 2017
No.5 September 2017
Optimization of Multi-item Operation Sequences and Batch Size for Non-Parallel Capacitated Machines: A Case Study
Reliability Comparison of a Fabricated Humidity Sensor using Various Artificial Intelligence Techniques
A 3D Segmentation Method for Pulmonary Nodule Image Sequences based on Supervoxels and Multimodal Data
A Study on Faults Diagnosis and Early-Warning Method of Tailings Reservoir Monitoring Points based on Intelligent Discovery
A Novel Information Theory-Based Ensemble Feature Selection Framework for High-Dimensional Microarray Data
No.6 October 2017
No.6 October 2017
Schedulability Analysis and Symbolic Verification Method for Heterogeneous Multicore Real-Time Systems
No.7 November 2017
No.7 November 2017
A Fast and Efficient Coding Algorithm for HEVC System based on Texture Analysis of Entropy Difference
Balanced Optimal Allocation of Resources based on Hybrid Algorithm of Ant Colony and Fish Swarm in Manufacturing Grid
Image Objects Segmentation and Tracking based on Genetic Algorithm Optimized Local Level Set Method with Shape Prior
Optimal Allocation of Mould Manufacturing Resources Under Manufacturing Network Environments based on a Bi-Level Programming Model
No.8 December 2017
No.8 December 2017
Human-Machine Interface Evaluation of CNC Machine Control Panel through Multidimensional Experimental Data Synchronous Testing Analysis Method
Channel Calibration based on Correlation Analysis for Multichannel SAR-GMTI Systems with Performance Test
Construction and Verification of Knowledge Base of Political & Economy News based on Mixed Algorithm of Subgraph Feature Extraction and RESCAL
A Plug-in Test Case Generation Method based on Contact Layer Proximity and Node Probability Coverage
Volume 12 - 2016
No.1 January 2016
No.1 January 2016
January 2016 P4 - Autonomous Cell Based Storage Location Assignment Strategy in Print Production Environments
January 2016 P5 - A Fuzzy based Hierarchical Trust Framework to rate the Cloud Service Providers based on Infrastructure Facilities
January 2016 P6 - Evaluation of Advanced Thermal Solid Waste Management Technologies for Sustainability in Florida
January 2016 - SC55 - Reliability Modeling for Two-stage Degraded System Based on Cumulative Damage Model
No.2 March 2016
No.2 March 2016
March 2016 - P4 - Classical and Bayesian Inference on 3-Step Step-Stress Accelerated Life Test Plan for Weibull Model under Modified Progressive Type-I Censoring
March 2016 - P5 - A Review on the Effects of Casting Quality, Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of Cast Al-Si-0.3Mg Alloy
March 2016 - P6 - Orbital TIG Welding Process Parameter Optimization using Design of Experiment for Satellite Application
March 2016 - P7 - A New Approach of Controlling Medium Consumption with Applications in Coal Mining Industry
March 2016 - P8 - Memetic Algorithm to Optimize Preventive Maintenance Schedule for a Multi-component Machine
No.3 May 2016
No.3 May 2016
May 2016 - P3 - Effect of Stacking Sequence and Hybridization on Mechanical Properties of Jute-Glass Fiber Composites
May 2016 - P4 - Design of Ramp-Stress Accelerated Life Test Plans for a Parallel System with two Dependent Components
May 2016 - P6 - A Systematic Approach for Evaluating the Reliability Metrics of MANET in Shadow Fading Environment using Monte Carlo Simulation
No.4 July 2016
No.4 July 2016
July 2016 - P1 - Prediction of Repair Work Duration for Gas Transport Systems Based on Small Data Samples
July 2016 - P2 - Availability Assessment of Multi-State System by Hybrid Universal Generating Function and Probability Intervals
No.5 September 2016
No.5 September 2016
September P1 - Biasness Correction on Maximum Likelihood Estimator using Pivotal Method for Weibull Distribution for Right Censored Situation
September P2 - Efficiency Enhancement in CNC Industry using Value Stream Mapping, Work Standardization and Line Balancing
September P4 - Cost Effectiveness of Healthcare Maintenance Policy: A New Proportional Delay Time Model
September P6 - Design Verification and Experimental Analysis on Industrial Cleaner for Fluffs Collection
No.6 November 2016
No.6 November 2016
November P1 - Evaluation and Optimization of Overall Equipment Effectiveness on a Pasting Machine in a Battery Manufacturing Industry
November P2 - Experimental Investigation on Catalytic Properties of Copper Oxide in Internal Combustion Petrol Engine during Cold Start Emission
November P3 - Productivity Enhancement in a Small Scale Manufacturing Unit through Proposed Line Balancing and Cellular Layout
November P4 - Effects of Reinforcing Elements on the Performance of Laser Transmission Welding Process in Polymer Composites: A Systematic Review
November P6 - Maintenance Priorities for a Repairable System of a Thermal Power Plant Subject to Availability Constraint
November P7 - A Methodology for Risk Assessment and Formulation of Mitigation Strategies for Trucking Industry
November P8 - Using a Moment Method to Estimate Parameters of Weibull Distribution under Right Censored Situation
Volume 11 - 2015
No.1 January 2015
No.1 January 2015
January 2015 P2 - Simultaneous Use of X and R Charts for Positively Correlated Data for Medium Sampl
January 2015 P3 - Estimation of Maximum In-Service Inspection Intervals Based on Risk: A Fuzzy Logic Based Approach
January 2015 P6 - Classification of Static Mechanical Equipment using a Fuzzy Inference System: A Case Study from an Offshore Installation
January 2015 P7 - Bearing Fault Detection based on Stochastic Resonance Optimized by Levenberg-Marquardt Algorithm
January 2015 P8 - Optimum Time-Censored Step-Stress PALTSP with Competing Causes of Failure Using Tampered Failure Rate Model
January 2015 - SC52 - Joint Lot-size and Preventive Maintenance Optimization for a Production System
No.2 March 2015
No.2 March 2015
March 2015 P2 - Development and Application of Deep Belief Networks for Predicting Railway Operation Disruptions
March 2015 P4 - An Overarching Risk Assessment Process to Evaluate the Risks Associated with Infrastructure Networks due to Natural Hazards
No.3 May 2015
No.3 May 2015
May 2015 P1 - A System Dynamics Model for Transient Availability Modeling of Repairable Redundant Systems
May 2015 P2 - A Comparison of Hidden Markov and Semi-Markov Modeling for a Deterioration System subject to Vibration Monitoring
May 2015 P4 - Reliability Estimation Based on Moving Average and State Space Model for Rolling Element Bearing
May 2015 P9 - Stochastic Analysis of a Two-Unit Cold Standby System with Arbitrary Distributions for Life, Repair and Waiting Times
No.4 July 2015
No.4 July 2015
July 2015 P1 - Largeness Avoidance in Availability Modeling using Hierarchical and Fixed-point Iterative Techniques
July 2015 P5 - Optimal Data Transfer Strategies for the Hierarchical Storage Management within a Server System
July 2015 P8 - Economic, Robust and Quality Design of Engineering Systems using a Hybrid Six Sigma-second Moment Approach
No.5 September 2015
No.5 September 2015
September 2015 P1 - Development of a Risk Based Maintenance Strategy to Optimize Forecast of a Gas Turbine Failures
September 2015 P3 - Maintenance Modelling using Generalized Renewal Process for Sequential Imperfect Corrective and Preventive Maintenance
September 2015 P5 - Reliability and Maintainability Analysis of a Robotic System for Industrial Applications: A Case Study
September 2015 P6 - Quantified Risk Assessment of Fire Incidence inside Hyperbaric Chamber: A Case Study
September 2015 P8 - An Optimized Part Based Gait Recognition using Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization
September 2015 - SC50 - A Simple Analytic Approximation for Entropy of Student-t Distribution and its Relation with Normal Distribution
No.6 November 2015
No.6 November 2015
November 2015 P2 - Risk Communication for Farmers' Adaptation to Climate Change: A New Task for Agricultural Advisory Services
November 2015 P3 - Partitioning and Transmutation of Nuclear Waste: Evaluation of Societal Implications
Volume 10 - 2014
No.1 January 2014
No.1 January 2014
January 2014 P2 - Accelerated Test Planning with Independent Competing Risks and Concave Degradation Path
January 2014 P4 - Three-Parameter Weibull and Inverse Weibull Models Applied to a Combined Approach of a Sequential and an Accelerated Life Testing
January 2014 P5 - Modelling Pipe Failures in Water Distribution Systems: Accounting for Harmful Repairs and a Time-dependent Covariate
January 2014 P8 - Survivability and Life Expectancy Modeling for Items Subjected to Complex Life Profile
January 2014 P9 - Nonparametric Modeling and Optimal Maintenance using Online Monitoring in Environments with Seasonal Variation
January 2014 P11 - Application of Vector Time Series Modeling and T-squared Control Chart to Detect Early Gearbox Deterioration
January 2014 P12 - Reliability Prediction for Input-Output Cards of Distributed Control Systems in Power Plants
No.2 March 2014
No.2 March 2014
March 2014 P02 - A Dual-Stochastic Process Model for Surveillance Systems with the Uncertainty of Operating Environments Subject to the Incident Arrival and System Failure Processes
March 2014 P04 - Use of Robust Design Technique in Job Shop Manufacturing: A Case Study of Die-Sinking Electro Discharge Machining
March 2014 P06 - A Novel Multi-class Support Vector Machines Using Probability Voting Strategy and Its Application on Fault Diagnosis of Gearbox
March 2014 P07 - Machine Learning Techniques Applied to Uniaxial Compressive Strength of Oporto Granite
March 2014 P09 - A Direct Method for Determining Design and Support Parameters to Meet an Availability Requirement
No.3 May 2014
No.3 May 2014
May 2014 P01 - Fleet-level Reliability of Multiple Repairable Units: A Parametric Approach using the Power Law Process
May 2014 P02 - Reliability Based Design of Multilayered Composites for Electromagnetic Shielding Applications
May 2014 P07 - An Efficient Method based on Self-Generating Disjoint Minimal Cut-Sets for Evaluating Reliability Measures of Interconnection Networks
No.4 June 2014
No.4 June 2014
June 2014 P8 - Efficiency Measures of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Bioremediation Process Through Ecotoxicological Tests
June 2014 P9 - Re-use of Agro-industrial Waste: Recovery of Valuable Compounds by Eco-friendly Techniques
No.5 July 2014
No.5 July 2014
July 2014 P2 - Facilitating AHP-TOPSIS Method for Reliability Analysis of a Marine LNG-Diesel Dual Fuel Engine
July 2014 P5 - Human Factor Analysis Embedded in Risk Assessment of Industrial Machines: Effects on the Safety Integrity Level
July 2014 P6 - A Hybrid Ensemble-Based Approach for Process Parameter Estimation and Degradation Assessment in Offshore Oil Platforms
July 2014 P7 - Effect of Blend Fuels on the Mechanical and Volumetric Efficiencies in CVCRM Engine Test Rig
No.6 September 2014
No.6 September 2014
September 2014 P2 - Reliability Analysis and Optimal Mixture Strategy for a Lot Composed of New and Reconditioned Systems
September 2014 P4 - Estimating Failure Intensity of a Repairable System to decide on its Preventive Maintenance or Retirement
September 2014 P8 - Optimal Selection of Process Mean and Production Lot Size for Newsvendor Problem
September 2014 P10 - A Direct Method for Determining Design and Support Parameters to Meet an Availability Requirement – Parameters Affecting Both Downtime and Uptime
September 2014 - SC46 - Bearing Remaining Useful Life Prediction Based on an Improved Back Propagation Neural Network
No.7 November 2014
No.7 November 2014
November 2014 P2 - A Systemic Approach to Oversee Human and Organizational Factors in Nuclear Facilities
November 2014 P3 - Nuclear Plant Control Room Operator Modeling Within the ADS-IDAC, Version 2, Dynamic PRA Environment: Part 1 - General Description and Cognitive Foundations
November 2014 P4 - Nuclear Plant Control Room Operator Modeling Within the ADS-IDAC, Version 2, Dynamic PRA Environment: Part 2 - Modeling Capabilities and Application Examples
November 2014 P5 - A Case Study on Addressing the Error Forcing Context in Human Reliability Analysis
November 2014 P7 - Human Factors in designing the Instrumentation and Control Systems Important to Safety
November 2014 P8 - Benefits and Limitations of the New Consolidated PWROG Severe Accident Management Guidance (SAMG) – A Review of Some Critical Issues
November 2014 P9 - Comments on An Efficient Method based on Self-Generating Disjoint Minimal Cut-Sets for Evaluating Reliability Measures of Interconnection Networks
Volume 9 - 2013
No.1 January 2013
No.1 January 2013
January 2013 P03 - Preventing Power Transformer Failures through Electrical Incipient Fault Analysis
January 2013 P04 - Energy Saving Assessment in Buildings with Varying Façade Orientations and Types of Glazing Systems when Exposed to Sun
January 2013 P05 - A Comparative Study of Artificial Neural Networks and Support Vector Machine for Fault Diagnosis
January 2013 P06 - The Influence of Scenario Metrics on Network Reliability of Mobile Ad Hoc Network
January 2013 P07 - Enhancing Performability through Domestic and International Clustering: A Case Study of Samsung Electronics Corporation (SEC)
January 2013 P09 - Application of FMEA to an Offshore Desalination Plant under Variable Environmental Conditions
No.2 March 2013
No.2 March 2013
March 2013 P01 - On the Role of Weibull-type Distributions in NHPP-based Software Reliability Modeling
March 2013 P07 - A Novel Approach for Analyzing the Behavior of Industrial Systems Using Uncertain Data
No.3 May 2013
No.3 May 2013
May 2013 P01 - Clustering Analysis to Improve the Reliability and Maintainability of Wind Turbines with Self-Organizing Map Neural Network
May 2013 P02 - Diagnostics and Damage Prediction Model for Heavy Duty Gas Turbine Combustor Hardware Failure
May 2013 P03 - Opportunistic Actions for Subassemblies of a Reciprocating Compressor: An LCC Based Approach
May 2013 P04 - Reliability Analysis of Mining Equipment Considering Operational Environments: A Case Study
May 2013 P05 - Reliability Based Methodologies for Optimal Maintenance Policies in Military Aviation
May 2013 P06 - Maintenance Decision-making Process for a Multi-Component Production Unit using Output-based Maintenance Technique: A Case Study for Non-repairable Two Serial Components' Unit
May 2013 P08 - Fleet-Level Reliability Analysis of Repairable Units: A Non-Parametric Approach using the Mean Cumulative Function
No.4 July 2013
No.4 July 2013
July 2013 P01 - An Approach to Evaluate Multiple Node Pair Reliability for Simultaneous Capacity Requirements
July 2013 P02 - Software Optimal Release Problem Considering the Environment for the Usage of Mobile Device
July 2013 P04 - A TQM Implementation Model for Enhancing Competitiveness of Indian Manufacturing Firms
No.5 September 2013
No.5 September 2013
September 2013 P01 - Modeling of Process for Ensuring Product Quality Based on the Process Approach by ISO 9000
September 2013 P04 - Reliability-Based Preventive Maintenance of Oil Circuit Breaker subject to Competing Failure Processes
September 2013 P05 - Maintenance Inventory Allocation in Presence of Heterogeneous Part Characteristics
September 2013 P07 - Reliability Analysis of a Seven Unit Desalination Plant with Shutdown during Winter Season and Repair/Maintenance on FCFS Basis
September 2013 P08 - Protection of k-out-of-n Systems under Intentional Attacks using Imperfect False Elements
September 2013 P09 - Optimal Tenuring Collection Times for a Generational Garbage Collector based on Continuous Damage Model
September 2013 P10 - Model-Based Analysis of 'k out of m' Correlation Techniques for Diverse Redundant Detectors
No.6 November 2013
No.6 November 2013
November 2013 P01 - Two Case Studies Illustrating the Management of Risks for the International Space Station
November 2013 P02 - Estimating the Risk of a New Launch Vehicle Using Historical Design Element Data
November 2013 P03 - Orbital Warehouse Design for an Extra-terrestrial Supply-Chain Distribution Model
November 2013 P07 - Use of a PRA in Supporting the Design of a GOES Weather Satellite and Ground System
November 2013 P08 - Reliability Characteristics of a Satellite Communication System including Earth Station and Terrestrial System
November 2013 P09 - Informative Bayesian Quantification of Design Reliability Based on Test Characteristics and Test Results
November 2013 P10 - Systematic Quantification of the Prior Risk Assurance of a New System Using Bayesian Evidence Analysis
November 2013 P11 - Modeling Rate of Occurrence of Failures with Log-Gaussian Process Models: A Case Study for Prognosis and Health Management of a Fleet of Vehicles
Volume 8 - 2012
No.1 January 2012
No.1 January 2012
January 2012 P3 - The Evolution and History of Reliability Engineering: Rise of Mechanistic Reliability Modeling
January 2012 P4 - Fault Diagnosis and Failure Mode Estimation by a Data-Driven Fuzzy Similarity Approach
January 2012 P5 - An Intuitionistic Fuzzy Methodology for Component-Based Software Reliability Optimization
No.2 March 2012
No.2 March 2012
March 2012 P3 - Infrastructure Communication Reliability of Wireless Sensor Networks Considering Common-Cause Failures
March 2012 P4 - Mobile Sensor Deployment and Coverage Using Multi-Agent-based Collective Formation Schemes
March 2012 P7 - Assessing the Effect of WiMAX System Parameter Settings on MAC-level Local DoS Vulnerability
No.3 May 2012
No.3 May 2012
May 2012 P3 - Life Cycle Costing as a Tool for Selecting the Best Available and Qualified Technique for Managing Physical Assets
May 2012 P7 - MinMaxDM Distribution Family for a Series of Parallel Systems with Defects and the Tensile Strength of a Composite Material
May 2012 P8 - On when to base Event Trees and Fault Trees on Probability Models and Frequentist Probabilities in Quantitative Risk Assessments
No.4 July 2012
No.4 July 2012
July 2012 P7 - Production Rate Maximization of a Multi-State System under Inspection and Repair Policy
SC33 - Reliability Model of Tracking, Telemetry, Command and Communication System using Markov Approach
No.5 September 2012
No.5 September 2012
September 2012 P1 - False Target vs Protection in Defending Parallel Systems against Unintentional and Intentional Impacts
September 2012 P4 - Reliability and Spare Parts Provision Considering Operational Environment: A Case Study
September 2012 P6 - Semi-Markov Modeling Approach for Deteriorating Systems with Preventive Maintenance
September 2012 P7 - Performance Measurement of Depot Level Maintenance in Military Aviation Environment
September 2012 P8 - A Software Reliability Growth Model for Estimating Debugging and the Learning Indices
No.6 November 2012
No.6 November 2012
November 2012 P8 - Relationships among Total Quality Management Practices: An Empirical Study in Turkish Industry
Volume 7 - 2011
No.1 January 2011
No.1 January 2011
January 2011 P2 - Approximation of Minimal Cut Sets for a Flow Network via Evolutionary Optimization and Data Mining Techniques
January 2011 P3 - Complex System Reliability Evaluation using Support Vector Machine for Incomplete Data-set
January 2011 P4 - Identification of Contradictory Patterns in Experimental Datasets for the Development of Models for Electrical Cables Diagnostics
January 2011 P6 - Design of Experiment and Simulation for Identification of Significant e-Maintenance Services
No.2 March 2011
No.2 March 2011
March 2011 P7 - Reliability Analysis of Identical Two-Unit Parallel CC Plant System Operative with Full Installed Capacity
March 2011 P8 - A Cost Model for Repairable System Considering Multi-failure type over Finite Time Horizon
No.3 May 2011
No.3 May 2011
May 2011 P5 - Analytical Uncertainty Propagation for Availability Assessment of Stochastic Multi-state Systems
May 2011 P6 - Optimal Assignment of a Two Types of Components in a Multi-state Stochastic-flow Network
May 2011 P7 - Planning Inspections in the Case of Damage Tolerance Approach to Service of Fatigued Aircraft Structures
No.4 July 2011
No.4 July 2011
July 2011 P2 - Software Dependability Modeling Using AADL (Architecture Analysis and Design Language)
July 2011 P5 - Structural Safety Assessment of a Pressure Vessel Using Performance Functions Approximations
No.5 September 2011
No.5 September 2011
September 2011 P1 - A Note on Spare Parts and Logistic Optimization with Monte Carlo based System Models
September 2011 P4 - Stochastic Petri Nets with Low Variation Matrix Exponentially Distributed Firing Time
September 2011 P5 - Optimal Design of Heterogeneous Series-Parallel Systems with Common-Cause Failures
No.6 November 2011
No.6 November 2011
November 2011 P1 - A Generic Approach for Predictive Maintenance Considering Changing Ageing Conditions
November 2011 P5 - A Simulation Approach to the Optimization of Railway Infrastructure Maintenance Strategies
November 2011 P8 - Development of Information System for e-Maintenance Solutions within the Aerospace Industry
November 2011 P9 - Information Logistics as a Guide for Research and Practice of e-Maintenance Operations
Volume 6 - 2010
No.1 January 2010
No.1 January 2010
January 2010 P4 - A Flow Importance Measure with Application to an Italian Transmission Power System
No.2 March 2010
No.2 March 2010
March 2010 P5 - Screening Criteria for Selection of New Products in the Electronic Component Distribution Industry
No.3 May 2010
No.3 May 2010
May 2010 P2 - Method for Modeling Component Reliability with the Number of Load Application as the Life Parameter
May 2010 P3 - A Method of Analyzing Probability Distribution of Fatigue Life of Notched Specimen based on Average Stress Model
No.4 July 2010
No.4 July 2010
Editorial: Designing for Maintainability and Optimization of Maintenance Policy an important step of achieving Performability
July 2010 P3 - Two Sequential Attacks of a Parallel System when Defense and Attack Resources are Expendable
July 2010 P6 - An Empirical Expression for Reliability Index of Flanged RC Beams in Limit State of Deflection
No.5 September 2010
No.5 September 2010
September 2010 P1 - A Fuzzy Similarity-Based Method for Failure Detection and Recovery Time Estimation
September 2010 P2 - Roller Bearing Defect Prognosis using Likelihood Parameters and Proportional Hazards Model
September 2010 P4 - Prognostics of Interconnect Degradation using RF Impedance Monitoring and Sequential Probability Ratio Test
September 2010 P5 - Computer Manufacturing Management Integrating Lean Six Sigma and Prognostic Health Management
September 2010 P7 - A Novel Method for Monitoring Single Variable Systems for Fault Detection, Diagnostics and Prognostics
No.6 November 2010
No.6 November 2010
November 2010 P7 - Entry Mode Choice between Wholly-Owned Subsidiary and Joint Venture: A Case Study of the Automotive Industry in India
Volume 5 - 2009
No.1 January 2009
No.1 January 2009
January 2009 P3 - Secrecy in Defensive Allocations as a Strategy for achieving more Cost-effective Attacker Deterrence
January 2009 P6 - Application of Advanced Computational Techniques to the Vulnerability Assessment of Network Systems exposed to Uncertain Harmful Events
No.2 January 2009
No.2 January 2009
No.3 April 2009
No.3 April 2009
No.4 July 2009
No.4 July 2009
July 2009 P1 - Non-Homogeneous Markov Reward Model for Aging Multi-state System under Minimal Repair
July 2009 P3 - Lifecycle Cost Optimization in the Conceptual Design of Products Having Variable Energy Consumption
July 2009 P6 - Detection of Runaway Reaction in a Polyvinyl Chloride Batch Process Using Artificial Neural Networks
July 2009 P7 - Estimation of Calendar-Time- and Process-Operative-Time-Hazardous-Event Rates for the Assessment of Fatal Risk
SC17 - Analysis of Three-State Device Parallel System Subject to Time Varying Open-Mode Failure and Repair Rates
No.5 October 2009
No.5 October 2009
October 2009 P1 - Expectation-Maximization Algorithm for Failure Analysis Using Incomplete Warranty Data
October 2009 P6 - Setting Production Targets for Rotables and Forecasting of Depot Level Spares in Military Aviation Environment
Volume 4 - 2008
No.1 January 2008
No.1 January 2008
January 2008 P2 - A Method for Reducing the Number of Reliability Formulae in Reliability Expression of Weighted-k-out-of-n System
January 2008 P3 - Multiple Commodity Flow Problem with Unreliable Nodes subject to Budget Constraints
January 2008 P5 - Stochastic Performance Evaluation for Software System Considering NHPP Task Arrival
No.2 April 2008
No.2 April 2008
April 2008 P2 - Performance Analysis of a Multistage Interconnection Network System Based on a Minimum Cut Set Method
SC10 - Performance Comparison for APRZ on Strongly and Weakly Managed Dispersion Maps for 40 Gb/s WDM Transmission
No.3 July 2008
No.3 July 2008
July 2008 P4 - The Application of a Maximum Likelihood Approach to an Accelerated Life Testing with an Underlying Three-Parameter Weibull Model
July 2008 P7 - Failure Probability Estimation using Fuzzy Fault Tree Analysis (FFTA) with PDM Data in Process Plants
July 2008 P8 - Corrosion Performance of Reinforced Concrete Member along Indian Coasts: Effect of Temperature & Relative Humidity
No.4 October 2008
No.4 October 2008
October 2008 P1 - A Study of Episodic Waste Generating Activities for the Formulation of Sustainable Waste Management Policies
October 2008 P2 - Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment: Do New Regulations Promote Sustainability?
Volume 3 - 2007
No.1 January 2007
No.1 January 2007
January 2007 P11 - A Bayesian Inference Algorithm to Identify Types of Accidents in Nuclear Power Plants
January 2007 P13 - Degradation Analysis and Risk-Informed Management of Feedwater System in Nuclear Power Plants
January 2007 P15 - CheckIT – A Program to Measure and Improve Information Security and Safety Culture
No.2 April 2007
No.2 April 2007
April 2007 P3 - A Closed-formula for Mean Time Between Failures of Minimal Repaired Systems under Weibull Failure Distribution
April 2007 P4 - Slope Stability Assessment – A Comparison of Probabilistic, Possibilistic and Hybrid Approaches
No.3 July 2007
No.3 July 2007
July 2007 P2 - Reliability Characteristics Based Maintenance Scheduling: A Case Study of a Crushing Plant
No.4 October 2007
No.4 October 2007
October 2007 P2 - Reliability and Availability Analysis of Three-state Device Redundant Systems with Human Errors and Common-cause Failures
October 2007 P4 - Comparing a Failure Probability to an Acceptability Criterion: Decision Theory Rationale and a Space Shuttle Application
Volume 2 - 2006
No.1 January 2006
No.1 January 2006
January 2006 P1 - Evaluating Communication-Network Reliability with Heterogeneous Link-Capacities Using Subset Enumeration
January 2006 P2 - Nonparametric Estimation of Performance and Performability for Semi-Markov Processes
January 2006 P6 - Sustainable Development and Environmental Assessment: A Case Study of a Fertilizer Project
No.2 April 2006
No.2 April 2006
April 2006 P1 - Performance Evaluation of Infrastructure Networks with Multistate Reliability Analysis
April 2006 P4 - Methods for Binning and Density Estimation of Load Parameters for Prognostic Health Monitoring
No.3 July 2006
No.3 July 2006
July 2006 P4 - Testing Effort Control using Flexible Software Reliability Growth Model with Change Point
No.4 October 2006
No.4 October 2006
October 2006 P3 - A 3-Neighborhood Heuristic Algorithm for Constrained Redundancy Optimization in Complex Systems
October 2006 P5 - A Discrete NHPP Model for Software Reliability Growth with Imperfect Fault Debugging and Fault Generation
Volume 1 - 2005
No.1 July 2005
No.1 July 2005
July 2005 P3 - Generalized Renewal Process: Models, Parameters Estimation and Application to Maintenance Problems
No.2 October 2005
No.2 October 2005
October 2005 P3 - The New Organization of Global Firms: From Transnational Solution to Dynamic Globalization
October 2005 P6 - Fuzzy Multi-criteria Decision Analysis: Application to Nuclear Industry Related Decision Making
International Journal of Performability Engineering
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Kidney & Bladder
All supplement orders over NZ$50 are delivered freight free* within New Zealand. * However a Rural Delivery fee of $3.50 will apply to all RD deliveries. Freight free may exclude food items and cleaning products You will be emailed before charging your order, if additional courier charges apply.
23 products found. Items 1 - 20 displayed.


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A North Carolina Senate bill that would sweep out the members of several important state boards and commissions will be drastically changed by the House, lawmakers said Tuesday.
A North Carolina Senate bill that would sweep out the members of several important state boards and commissions will be drastically changed by the House, lawmakers said Tuesday.
Republican Deputy Majority Whip Rep. Pat McElraft, R-Carteret; Rep. Rick Catlin, R-New Hanover; Rep. Frank Iler, R-Brunswick; and Rep. Tom Murry, R-Wake, met Monday to discuss changes to the bill.
"We exchanged some ideas and talked about a substitute bill," Catlin said. Calls to McElraft, Iler and Murry were not returned.
Sen. Bill Rabon, R-Brunswick, a primary sponsor of Senate Bill 10, said that it streamlines government by getting rid of unnecessary boards and commissions and that it allows several key entities to be run by appointees who "are more like-minded and willing to carry out the philosophy of the new administration."
But opponents argue the bill creates a brain drain by dismissing experienced board members.
"I am addressing the institutional knowledge concern," Catlin said. "If everybody goes out at once, we could have a real mess then."
As written, the legislation would dismiss all current members of the N.C. Utilities Commission, state Industrial Commission, Coastal Resources Commission, Environmental Management Commission and Wildlife Resources Commission. Other panels labeled obsolete would be eliminated or reduced in size. It also eliminates 12 special Superior Court judgeships.
Catlin said the elimination of the judgeships would likely not be part of the House version. His amendments include phased appointments to preserve institutional knowledge and "conflict-of-interest language to keep state authority for federal regulations." Catlin said his amendments are still subject to debate and could be changed.
Opponents of the bill have similar concerns as the House lawmakers. The Cape Fear, Outer Banks and Bogue Banks Chapters of the Surfrider Foundation sent a letter to House Speaker Thom Tillis, R-Mecklenburg, this week opposing the bill on the grounds it discards "years of experience and institutional knowledge on crucial state boards" such as the Coastal Resources Commission.
"Effectively, this bill will impede and disrupt the business of our state," the letter said. "Not only is SB 10 unfair to the public taxpayers, but also all of those who have participated in this process, including industry .... These changes will make our state boards inefficient and could lead to politics driving critical decisions that should be based in sound science and policy expertise."
It is unclear when the House Committee on Commerce and Job Development will consider the bill.
"It is moving pretty fast," Catlin said. "I am still asking questions. We�re not done yet."


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The Vredefort crater is the largest verified impact crater in the world. It was more than 300 km across when it was formed. It's also one of the oldest impact craters in the world at around 2 Billion Years old. What remains of it is located in the present-day Free State …Read More »
Home / Tag Archives: Vredefort impact crater


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Inspired by "Out on a Limb" by Janet Carija Brandt
Quiltmaker: Laura Boehnke
1 yard multicolor print (appliqué foundation, middle border)
2-1/2 yards solid black (appliqués, inner and outer borders, binding)
1-1/2 yards backing fabric
54x40" batting
Lightweight fusible web
Finished quilt: 47-1/2x33-1/2"
Quantities are for 44/45"-wide, 100% cotton fabrics.
Measurements include 1/4" seam allowances. Sew with right sides together unless otherwise stated.
Related Links:


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Bikalpa – an Alternative conducted the 22nd "Workshop on Accountability and Civic Leadership" in collaboration with Accountability Lab & Action Aid Nepal, targeting the college students in Biratnagar. The objective of the program was to educate and trained young people on the issue of accountability and civic responsibilities, and encourage them to keep concern on the social issues and the issues of governance. The program was conducted at the premises of Hotel Namaskar, Biratnagar, who provides the venue support for the program.
Accountability, Civic Responsibility, Youth as a Change Makers, Team Building, and Importance of Extra Curriculum Activities in Students Life, Group Work & Presentation were the major content of the program. The program gives valuable insight to the students that they are also the part of the society and have a capacity to play an important role for the positive change. It also encourages them to raise the voice against the ill practices and take initiatives to make the authorities holders accountable. Team building games were played to make the program more interesting and participative. 18 participants took part in the program. The program was started at 10:30 am (2nd December 2017, Saturday) and ended at 4:30 pm after the feedback collection and certificate distribution.


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Sydney Science Forum: Crowd Control - The Principles of Collective Behaviour
6 August 2012
Discover the principles underlying how shoals swim in synch, flocks fly in formation and herds hurry in harmony - in other words, how big groups of animals move in a coordinated fashion - when Professor Iain Couzin, from Princeton University, USA, presents his Sydney Science Forum: Crowd Control - The Principles of Collective Behaviour on Wednesday 8 August 2012.
In this free public talk, Professor Iain Couzin will thrill the crowd with amazing film and photography of locusts swarming, fish in teaming shoals and huge flocks of birds migrating, while exploring how they manage to coordinate such feats.
"These are truly some of the most amazing sights in nature - when animals move in huge crowds. My research focuses on how they are able to seamlessly move in unison as they do," said Professor Iain Couzin, from the Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology at Princeton University.
"It's amazing how a flock of birds can arc and ripple while descending to roost, and a school of fish can convulse as if it is a single entity when attacked by a predator," said Professor Couzin.
"My research group investigates how individual behaviour contributes to group dynamics and how large animal groups can move in unison. We're particularly interested in the critical role that uninformed, or weakly-opinionated, individuals play in democratic consensus decision-making."
Professor Couzin will discuss his fascinating research with humour and fantastic visuals, revealing what his team have found on the principles of collective behaviour.
"We have this notion of animal groups functioning as a 'collective mind' where the group can exhibit complex and coordinated collective behaviours that are of a much higher-order computationally than the individuals in the group are capable of. Think about the sensory range and cognitive capacity of a single locust - it's just an insect - but when they swarm, they are able to effectively disseminate directional information through the group and detect all sorts of environmental cues over a large area, that wouldn't be accessible to any individual locust," said Professor Couzin.
"Collective behaviours in animals result from social interactions among individuals, which is great for us scientists, because these interactions between individuals are both observable and manipulable. Animal groups are ideal subjects with which to develop and test mathematical models that link the behaviour of small components with the functioning and overall efficiency of their dynamic group-level properties," explained Professor Couzin.
"Animal groups provide unrivalled opportunities to quantify the behaviour of individual components within the context of the collective, which means our findings have implications beyond animal groups and into all sorts of other collective organisations, like the billions of interconnected cells communicating with chemical and electrical signals in our brains, or how traffic flows on congested roads."
Working with Professor Steve Simpson, from the University of Sydney's School of Biological Sciences, Professor Couzin has found that cannibalism drives locust swarms, with each individual seeking to eat locusts in front of it and escape from locusts behind it, driving the group forwards.
Come on a colourful adventure revealing the principles underlying group behaviour.
This Sydney Science Forum is funded by the School of Biological Sciences' annual Murray Lecture, which brings an internationally noted academic to the University of Sydney to present a public talk and participate in mentoring activities for postgraduate students.
After the Sydney Science Forum, join in a variety of related interactive demonstrations and experiments, as well as a cocktail reception.
Sydney Science Forum: Crowd Control - The Principles of Collective BehaviourDate: Wednesday 8 August 2012
Time: 5.45pm - 6.45pm
Venue: Eastern Avenue Auditorium, University of Sydney
Cost: Free
Contact: Katynna Gill
Phone: 02 9351 6997


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According to a recent survey by Home Instead Senior Care, 3 out of 5 seniors in Canada and the U.S. have been the victim of an online scam. ZNews Videographer Darrin Maharaj takes a look at what Home Instead is doing to help prevent Zoomers from being at risk.
Home Instead offers free monthly newsletters with tips and advice for caregivers of elderly loved ones.
Each Home Instead Senior Care franchise is independently owned and operated.


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Wyoming-made, unique, practical outdoor gear is what we do. We spend our share of days in the field and are aware of the fact that having the right gear at the right time is critical to outdoor success. We feel that our gear (what we purchase from others as well as what we manufacture) must meet two criteria. It must be practical (meaning it must work damn good) and it must have a price that represents an excellent value. We work hard. You do too. That's why we stand by the statement on the information card that comes with every Day's Worth Fly Box. It says:
"At Cliff Outdoors, our aim is to design and manufacture the highest quality, most practical fly fishing accessories without bending you over."
Finally, we guarantee that if at any time you are dissatisfied with any product of ours, we'll simply make it right. You have our handshake on it, period.
The Days Worth Fly Box
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The video narration is in English. When a video is playing, you can optionally turn on/off English subtitles by clicking the CC button in the bottom toolbar (or pressing "C" on your keyboard). The subtitles may either be verified by Jabra or auto-generated by YouTube.
Please note that translated subtitles, verified by Jabra, may be available in Chinese (Simplified), French, German, Japanese, or Spanish. To see available translated subtitles, click the Settings icon , go to Subtitles/CC, and then select the preferred language.
These step-by-step instructions will help you pair your Jabra device with your smartphone using Bluetooth. Simply select your Jabra device and you are on your way.
Note: These instructions do not describe pairing your Jabra device with a computer, desk phone, or tablet.
Read more: Can I use my Jabra Bluetooth device with the built-in Bluetooth in my computer?
In this section you can find firmware and, if applicable, software for updating your Jabra device. You can update some Jabra devices directly using the firmware file. Updating other Jabra devices may require installing Jabra software.
The relevant firmware file and software download will be available here.
The following images show where to find your product serial number.
The Jabra Pro 9400 Series will be replaced by the new Jabra Engage Series. All variants of the Pro 9400 Series ceased manufacture on October 3rd 2018, including customer-specific SKUs; sales will continue only for as long as there is stock.
After Market Service is ensured for all variants and accessories according to Jabra's warranty obligations.
The Jabra Engage 75 and 65 Series includes a range of Stereo, Mono and Convertible* models to enable an easy migration from the Pro 9400. Please refer to the recommended migration path in the chart below.
*The Convertible models offer a new wearing style, with 3 ways to wear, including earhook, neckband and headband.
Jabra Pro 9400 variant
Jabra Engage variant
Jabra Pro 9470 Mono
Jabra Engage 75 Mono or
Jabra Pro 9465 Duo
Jabra Engage 75 Stereo
Jabra Pro 9460 Duo
Jabra Engage 65 Stereo or
Jabra Engage 75 Stereo
Jabra Pro 9460 Mono
Jabra Engage 65 Mono or
Jabra Engage 75 Mono or
Jabra Pro 9450 Duo
Jabra Engage 65 Stereo
Jabra Pro 9450 Mono
Jabra Engage 65 Mono or
Jabra Pro 9450 Flex Mono
Jabra Engage 65 Mono or


text: Head over to one of our convenient South Carolina car dealerships to value your trade-in today! Our Jim Hudson Automotive Group will provide you with the fair appraisal you deserve, submit your vehicle's information using our secure form below now. If you're interested in a brand new car, shop our impressive inventory online; we have stylish Ford, Lexus, and Toyota models, just to name a few! We encourage you to fill out our secure online credit application while you're at it so you can take a new ride home today!