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AbstractThe project aimed to revolutionize home security by developing innovative, user-friendly, and highly secure smart security devices requiring minimal installation and robust data protection. Through meticulous research and critical design phases, the project successfully achieved its objectives, surpassing initial goals and setting new standards for home security.Objectives & Research Findings:The project aimed to address the critical needs of homeowners, tenants/renters, and property managers by focusing on damage-free installation, easy setup, remote monitoring, and encrypted data transmission. Analysis of burglary statistics emphasized the vulnerability of inadequate door-locking mechanisms, while exploration of sensor technologies identified viable options for detecting door status. Patent analysis provided insights into prior art and innovation trends, guiding design decisions and strategies for intellectual property protection.Critical Design Phase & Achievements:Detailed engineering analysis, testing protocols, risk assessment, and compliance considerations were conducted. Hardware components were carefully selected and tested for optimal performance, and housing units were designed for durability and practical installation. Non-invasive sensors facilitated risk-free installation, while battery-powered sensors ensured portability and longevity. Invasive sensor options were developed for permanent home installation, and user-friendly mobile/web applications provided real-time property security status with secure and encrypted data transmission.Future Recommendations & Conclusion:Future recommendations include extending battery life, enhancing data protection measures, implementing a notification system within the application, and ensuring compatibility with other smart home systems. The project demonstrates how innovative security solutions can evolve alongside technology to meet user needs effectively, setting new benchmarks for convenience, flexibility, and data protection in home security systems. Lessons learned will guide future improvements, ensuring continued innovation and user satisfaction.

Abstract: In concurrent work, we introduced a novel robotic package delivery system latching intelligent modular mobility system (LIMMS). Each LIMMS end effector requires a small, lightweight latching mechanism for pre-manufactured containers, such as cardboard boxes. In order to effectively process a high volume of packages, aligning the latching mechanism quickly and reliably is critical. Instead of depending on highly accurate controllers for alignment, we propose a novel self-aligning rotational mechanism to increase the system’s tolerance to misalignment. The radial latching design consists of evenly spaced blades that rotate into slots cut into the box. When misaligned, the blades contact the edges of the engagement slots, generating a self-correcting force that passively centers the blades with the slot pattern. This paper introduces a mathematical framework with closed form expressions to quantify error tolerance for these mechanisms. Through our mathematical and optimization analyses, it is shown that a two-blade design can tolerate a maximum misalignment of three times the radius to the blade tips, much larger than commonly used designs with three or more blade-like contacts. Our approach can be generalized for a class of rotational latching mechanisms with any number of blades. Utilizing this theory, a design process is laid out for developing an optimal self-aligning rotational latching mechanism given desired parameters and task constraints. With this methodology, we designed, manufactured, and verified the effectiveness of both two-blade and three-blade self-aligning in practical experiments.

The concept of "all cores are created equal" has been popular for several decades due to its simplicity and effectiveness in CPU (Central Processing Unit) design. The more cores the CPU has, the higher performance the host owns and the higher the power consumption. However, power-saving is also one of the key goals for servers in data centers and embedded devices (e.g., mobile phones). The big.LITTLE multicore architecture, which contains high-performance cores (namely big core) and power-saved cores (namely little core), has been developed by ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) and Intel to trade off performance and power efficiency. Facing the new heterogeneous computing architecture, the traditional lock algorithms, which are designed to run on homogeneous computing architecture, cannot work optimally as usual and drop into the performance issue for the difference between big core and little core. In our preliminary experiment, we observed that, in the big.LITTLE multicore architecture, all these lock algorithms exhibit sub-optimal performance. The FIFO-based (First In First Out) locks experience throughput degradation, while the performance of competition-based locks can be divided into two categories. One of them is big-core-friendly, so their tail latency increases significantly; the other is little-core-friendly. Not only does the tail latency increase, but the throughput is also degraded. Motivated by this observation, we propose a Core-Aware Lock for the big.LITTLE multicore architecture named CAL, which keeps each core having an equal opportunity to access the critical section in the program. The core idea of the CAL is to take the slowdown ratio as the matric to reorder lock requests of these big and little cores. By evaluating benchmarks and a real-world application named LevelDB, CAL is confirmed to achieve fairness goals in heterogeneous computing architecture without sacrificing the performance of the big core. Compared to several traditional lock algorithms, the CAL's fairness has increased by up to 67%; and Its throughput is 26% higher than FIFO-based locks and 53% higher than competition-based locks, respectively. In addition, the tail latency of CAL is always kept at a low level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of VertigO is the property of La Revue Electronique en Sciences de l'Environnement VertigO and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

We are coming across cases, where the education system is being distorted and perverted. As the present security of our education system has several loopholes that can be exploited to obtain access to the locations were question papers are being kept, posing a significant threat to society, to address this problem we engineered an intrusion detection recording system with a biometric lock. Our project is a result of combination of two already existing methodologies - Wireless Biometric Lock and Noise detector with automatic recording system. This combination provides us with a more secure system than the existing individual implementation. Thus, our project is a noise sensor-based device with an automatic recording system that can also lock the locker or door using a fingerprint-based biometric interface which not only detects intrusion but also traps the person who tries to intrude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The concept of “all cores are created equal” has been popular for several decades due to its simplicity and effectiveness in CPU (Central Processing Unit) design. The more cores the CPU has, the higher performance the host owns and the higher the power consumption. However, power-saving is also one of the key goals for servers in data centers and embedded devices (e.g., mobile phones). The big.LITTLE multicore architecture, which contains high-performance cores (namely big core) and power-saved cores (namely little core), has been developed by ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) and Intel to trade off performance and power efficiency. Facing the new heterogeneous computing architecture, the traditional lock algorithms, which are designed to run on homogeneous computing architecture, cannot work optimally as usual and drop into the performance issue for the difference between big core and little core. In our preliminary experiment, we observed that, in the big.LITTLE multicore architecture, all these lock algorithms exhibit sub-optimal performance. The FIFO-based (First In First Out) locks experience throughput degradation, while the performance of competition-based locks can be divided into two categories. One of them is big-core-friendly, so their tail latency increases significantly; the other is little-core-friendly. Not only does the tail latency increase, but the throughput is also degraded. Motivated by this observation, we propose a Core-Aware Lock for the big.LITTLE multicore architecture named CAL, which keeps each core having an equal opportunity to access the critical section in the program. The core idea of the CAL is to take the slowdown ratio as the matric to reorder lock requests of these big and little cores. By evaluating benchmarks and a real-world application named LevelDB, CAL is confirmed to achieve fairness goals in heterogeneous computing architecture without sacrificing the performance of the big core. Compared to several traditional lock algorithms, the CAL’s fairness has increased by up to 67%; and Its throughput is 26% higher than FIFO-based locks and 53% higher than competition-based locks, respectively. In addition, the tail latency of CAL is always kept at a low level.

We present a set of security mechanisms supporting a form of split consensus between subjects that grant permissions to exert rights to access objects, and subjects that hold these rights. Our solution is based on lock-key pairs. A key specifies a collection of access rights, and a category for each access right. For each category, a lock states whether an access right in that category is valid, or not. We illustrate a few examples of applications, including file security, a form of priority-based access control, access control lists, and capability lists supporting hierarchical object structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents basic information on the construction of the Moscow Canal. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Histria Archaeologica is the property of Arheoloski Muzej Istre u Puli and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of National University of Defense Technology / Guofang Keji Daxue Xuebao is the property of NUDT Press and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract Introduction To prevent infection and thrombosis of central venous catheters (CVCs) in hemodialysis patients, different CVC lock solutions are available. Taurolidine-based solutions and citrate in different concentrations are frequently used, but no definite conclusions with regard to superiority have been drawn. Methods In this retrospective, observational, multicenter study, we aimed to assess the risk for removal of CVC due to infection or catheter malfunction in hemodialysis patients with CVC access for different lock solutions: taurolidine, high-concentrated citrate (46.7%) and low-concentrated citrate (4 or 30%). A multivariable Cox-regression model was used to calculate hazard ratio’s (HR). Results We identified 1514 patients (median age 65 years, 59% male). In 96 (6%) taurolidine-based lock solutions were used. In 1418 (94%) citrate-based lock solutions were used (high-concentrated 73%, low-concentrated 20%). Taurolidine-based lock solutions were associated with a significantly lower hazard for removal of CVC due to infection or malfunction combined (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.19–0.64), and for removal of CVC due to infection or malfunction separately (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15–0.88 and HR0.33, 95% CI 0.14–0.79). High-concentrated citrate lock solutions were not associated with a decreased hazard for our outcomes, compared to low-concentrated citrate lock solutions. Conclusion Removal of CVC due to infection or catheter malfunction occurred less often with taurolidine-based lock solutions. We present the largest cohort comparing taurolidine- and citrate-based lock solutions yet. However, due to the retrospective observational nature of this study, conclusions with regard to superiority should be drawn with caution.

A look at the challenges of building the 5th lock chamber in Brunsbüttel The new construction of the 5th lock chamber in Brunsbüttel is currently the largest hydraulic construction site in Europe and is necessary in order to be able to subsequently repair the existing large lock chambers. A benefit‐cost analysis showed the highest benefit value for the new construction between the existing large and small locks, i. e. on the lock island. The location of the construction site results in special requirements for construction operations. In general, a large number of crafts have to be coordinated, which are necessary e. g. for the concrete and steel construction of the heads, the chamber for seagoing vessels and the outer harbours. Furthermore, it has to be taken into account, that the construction site is located at the estuary of the Elbe and thus has to be prepared for storm surges. These special boundary conditions of the construction project and selected construction methods are discussed by way of example. A special focus of the article is also on the extensive concrete technology considerations for achieving durable concrete structures. In addition to minimising crack widths in massive concrete elements, other aspects such as resistance against frost and chloride attack had to be considered for developing the concrete composition. The temporarily limited availability of fly ash made this task even more complex. In order to further improve durability, controlled permeability formwork liners were used in parts of the structure with sever exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incidence of central venous catheter (CVC)-related bloodstream infections is high in patients requiring a long-term CVC. Therefore, infection prevention is of the utmost importance. The aim of this study was to provide an updated overview of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing the efficacy of taurolidine containing lock solutions (TL) to other lock solutions for the prevention of CVC-related bloodstream infections in all patient populations. On 15th February 2021, PubMed, Embase and The Cochrane Library were searched for RCTs comparing the efficacy of TLs for the prevention of CVC-related bloodstream infections with other lock solutions. Exclusion criteria were non-RCTs, studies describing <10 patients and studies using TLs as treatment. Risk of bias was evaluated using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2 tool. A random effects model was used to pool individual study incidence rate ratios (IRRs). Subgroup analyses were performed based on the following factors: CVC indication, comparator lock and bacterial isolates cultured. A total of 14 articles were included in the qualitative synthesis describing 1219 haemodialysis, total parenteral nutrition and oncology patients. The pooled IRR estimated for all patient groups together (nine studies; 918 patients) was 0.30 (95% confidence interval 0.19–0.46), favouring the TLs. Adverse events (10 studies; 867 patients) were mild and scarce. The quality of the evidence was limited due to a high risk of bias and indirectness of evidence. The use of TLs might be promising for the prevention of CVC-related bloodstream infections. Large-scale RCTs are needed to draw firm conclusions on the efficacy of TLs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Archaeological materials found in different periods during the excavations in the settlement of Isker (Ku-chum, 17 km from the city of Tobolsk), the ancient capital of the Khanate of Sibir, allow the analysis of firearms of Russian warriors of the 1582–1585, who took part in the Yermak’s Conquest of the Khanate. Various gun barrel fragments, breechloader bolts, a hammer with a lock spring, steel strikers with turnscrews, metal and bone ram-rod parts, bullet moulds were discovered during the excavations in Isker. These findings suggest that Russian pishchal arquebuses with matchlocks of the first half of the 16th century were the major weapon in service. On the tips of wooden ramrods, there were copper and bone bushings for ramming the projectiles. Ramrods were also equipped with three-leafed bushing caps for bore cleaning. All-purpose steel strikers with turnscrews unscrewed the bolts that attached barrels to stocks and disassembled locks; they had holes to be suspended on the gun. Stone bullet moulds were used for moulding lead bullets. The carefully examined archaeological collections from Isker do not support the hypothesis proposed in scientific literature stating that Yermak’s Cossacks were armed with flintlock firearm and small-bore guns.

Abstract Background This study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of vancomycin- lock therapy for the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in very low body weight (VLBW) preterm infant patients. Methods One hundred and thirty-seven cases of VLBW preterm infants who retained peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were retrospectively reviewed, including 68 treating with heparin plus vancomycin (vancomycin-lock group) and 69 with heparin only (control group). The incidence of CRBSI, related pathogenic bacteria, adverse events during the treatment, complications, antibiotic exposure, PICC usage time, hospital stay, etc. were compared between the above two groups. Results The incidence rate of CRBSI in the vancomycin-lock group (4.4%, 3/68) was significantly less than in the control group (21.7%, 15/69, p = 0.004). Total antibiotic exposure time during the whole observation period was significantly shorter in the group than in the control group (11.2 ± 10.0 vs 23.6 ± 16.1 d; p

Background: Catheters provide vascular access for patients requiring intravenous treatments, but frequently are a source of infection and/or thrombosis. Instilling a solution of an antimicrobial agent with an anticoagulant into the catheter lumen may salvage-infected catheters. Objective: The aim is to evaluate the physical compatibility, antibacterial activity, and stability of varying combinations of cefazolin (10 mg/mL), 40% ethanol, 4% sodium citrate with or without gentamicin (1 mg/mL) as a catheter lock solution over 48 h. Methods: Admixtures were prepared using aseptic technique and stored under four conditions with or without light at 25°C or 37°C. Prepared admixtures were assessed for physical compatibility, antimicrobial susceptibility, and chemical stability in triplicate at 0, 24 and 48 h. Admixture physical compatibility was determined by visual clarity, pH, and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The chemical stability of cefazolin and gentamicin were assessed using high performance liquid chromatography and UV spectroscopy, respectively. Results: All admixtures maintained clarity for 48 h. All admixtures stored at 25°C and the admixture containing 10 mg/mL cefazolin-4% sodium citrate stored at 37°C sustained antimicrobial activity and were chemically stable. A significant change in pH, antimicrobial activity, cefazolin concentration (

Low Cycle Fatigue (LCF) is one of most common mechanisms behind turbine blade failures. The reason is high stress concentration in notch areas, like fir-tree root groves, which can cause cyclic stress beyond the safe threshold. The stress levels strictly depend on the manufacturing accuracy of the fir-tree lock (for both fitted together: blade root and disk groove). The probabilistic study aimed at determination of stress was performed using Finite Element Method (FEM) simulation on a population of 1000 turbine models (disk + blades +friction dampers), where fir-tree lock dimensions were sampled according to the normal distribution, within limits specified in the documentation. The studies were performed for different manufacturing quality levels: 3-Sigma, 6-Sigma and 3-Sigma with tolerance ranges reduced twice. Based on the results, the probabilistic distributions, probabilities and expected ranges of values could be determined for: material plastification, stress, strain, LCF lifetime, etc. The study has shown how each tooth of the root is loaded and how wide a stress range should be expected in each groove. That gives information on how the definition of tolerances should be modified to make the construction more optimal, more robust, with lower likelihood of damage, taking into account the cost-quality balance. It also shows how the Six Sigma philosophy can improve the safety of the construction, its repeatability and predictability. Additionally, the presented numerical study is a few orders of magnitude more cost- and time-effective than experiment.

The paper presents analytical and numerical analysis of the pin connection resistance made of high-strength steel used in the temporary bridge ŽM 60. The assessment of the pin connection was performed according to standard [1] and also using numerical analysis by means of numerical sophisticated calculations based on FEM analyses.

The paper presents an experimental device that was created in order to obtain real values of the forces acting in vertical direction on the lock-off element, the so-called brake body, the 2nd design option. The lock of this design is used in the automated parking garage, designed by KOMA - Industry, s.r.o, to lock the parked vehicles on pallets in the units of the rack parking system. The forces acting in vertical direction on the body of the fixation lock when pushing the brake pulley into the circular recess in the brake ramp are theoretically calculated for two design variants of the brake ramp used in practice, i.e. "Without" and "with" a rounded (filleted) circular recess segment in the brake ramp. Experimentally determined forces acting in vertical direction on the brake body are determined for two types of compression coil springs with a rectangular cross section of the spring wire.

Introduction: To prevent infection and thrombosis of central venous catheters (CVCs) in hemodialysis patients, different CVC lock solutions are available. Taurolidine-based solutions and citrate in different concentrations are frequently used, but no definite conclusions with regard to superiority have been drawn.Methods: In this retrospective, observational, multicenter study, we aimed to assess the risk for removal of CVC due to infection or catheter malfunction in hemodialysis patients with CVC access for different lock solutions: taurolidine, high-concentrated citrate (46.7%) and low-concentrated citrate (4 or 30%). A multivariable Cox-regression model was used to calculate hazard ratio's (HR).Results: We identified 1514 patients (median age 65 years, 59% male). In 96 (6%) taurolidine-based lock solutions were used. In 1418 (94%) citrate-based lock solutions were used (high-concentrated 73%, low-concentrated 20%). Taurolidine-based lock solutions were associated with a significantly lower hazard for removal of CVC due to infection or malfunction combined (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.19-0.64), and for removal of CVC due to infection or malfunction separately (HR 0.36, 95% CI 0.15-0.88 and HR0.33, 95% CI 0.14-0.79). High-concentrated citrate lock solutions were not associated with a decreased hazard for our outcomes, compared to low-concentrated citrate lock solutions.Conclusion: Removal of CVC due to infection or catheter malfunction occurred less often with taurolidine-based lock solutions. We present the largest cohort comparing taurolidine- and citrate-based lock solutions yet. However, due to the retrospective observational nature of this study, conclusions with regard to superiority should be drawn with caution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Catheters provide vascular access for patients requiring intravenous treatments, but frequently are a source of infection and/or thrombosis. Instilling a solution of an antimicrobial agent with an anticoagulant into the catheter lumen may salvage-infected catheters. Objective: The aim is to evaluate the physical compatibility, antibacterial activity, and stability of varying combinations of cefazolin (10 mg/mL), 40% ethanol, 4% sodium citrate with or without gentamicin (1 mg/mL) as a catheter lock solution over 48 h. Methods: Admixtures were prepared using aseptic technique and stored under four conditions with or without light at 25°C or 37°C. Prepared admixtures were assessed for physical compatibility, antimicrobial susceptibility, and chemical stability in triplicate at 0, 24 and 48 h. Admixture physical compatibility was determined by visual clarity, pH, and ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy. Antibacterial activity was determined using the Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The chemical stability of cefazolin and gentamicin were assessed using high performance liquid chromatography and UV spectroscopy, respectively. Results: All admixtures maintained clarity for 48 h. All admixtures stored at 25°C and the admixture containing 10 mg/mL cefazolin-4% sodium citrate stored at 37°C sustained antimicrobial activity and were chemically stable. A significant change in pH, antimicrobial activity, cefazolin concentration (<95% of baseline), were observed in admixtures containing ethanol stored at 37°C after 24 h. Gentamicin concentrations remained stable throughout the study. Conclusion: The admixture of 10 mg/mL cefazolin-4% sodium citrate sustained antimicrobial activity over 48 h and was chemically stable. However, admixtures containing ethanol stored at 37°C showed incompatibility with decreased antibacterial activity and cefazolin degradation after 24 h. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a methodology for analysis and design of precast concrete cofferdams using the example of the successful addition of a new lock at the Kentucky Dam on the Tennessee River near Paducah, Ky. Cofferdams are traditionally made from steel; however, several projects in the United States were successfully done in the past with precast concrete cofferdams. Nevertheless, analysis and design of precast concrete cofferdams are not extensively covered in the literature. For construction of the new lock at Kentucky Dam, finite element analyses and adequate capacity checks, including crack control, were performed for precast concrete cofferdams in all construction stages. Ten unsymmetrical, approximately 15 × 15 m (50 × 50 ft) wide by 11 m (35 ft) high cofferdams with 300 mm (12 in.) thick walls were placed next to each other in the river from a river barge. These precast concrete boxes will eventually create one monolithic wall (the future wall of the lock). It was concluded that precast concrete cofferdams represent an innovative and advantageous solution for future similar projects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revue Archéologique de Picardie is the property of Revue Archeologique de Picardie and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Snares are ancient tools, used since prerecorded time. Many advancements and improvements have been made in the 21st century, including aircraft cable, snare locks, swivels, and breakaway devices. Though still a popular capture tool in many parts of North America, their prevalence has declined worldwide and in some parts of the United States. I describe current snaring terms, define the difference between snares and cable restraints, summarize all commercially available snare and cable restraint components, and provide a general description of their use. I also point out some shortcomings in the current literature. I hope this will shed new light on an old tool.

(En) The Bagouria Barrage is one of the most important establishments that were built in the field of irrigation engineering in the governorate of Menoufia during the reign of Khedive Ismail in 1281 AH/ 1864 AD. The Bagouria Barrage consists of five openings with semi-circular arches, including a large central archway that was assigned for entry and exit of boats. It is noted that the Barrage arches are based on stone pillars separated from each other by openings equipped with iron gates used to open and close the barrage. On the left of the barrage, from the eastern side, there is a lock dedicated to the passage of ships and boats on the Bagouria canal. The roof of the barrage contains a road for transport which links the villages and the areas located in the eastern part of the Bagouria Barrage with those located on the western side. The Bagouria Barrage contributed to the development of irrigation and agriculture system in Menoufia through supplying the agricultural lands with summer irrigation water and improving the navigation system in the Bagouria Canal. Most notably is the large number of the Nilometers which were established in the vicinity of the Bagouria Barrage for defining the flood level and the necessary balances of the Bagouria Barrage. In addition, the artistic and decorative elements that adorn the Bagouria Barrage are rare because of the nature of the construction that is located in the middle of one of the waterways. The research elements are as follows:- Frist: Types of Barrages and their architectural composition: The first type (Large barrages). The second type (Influx barrages). The third type (Reservoir and distribution barrages). The Fourth type (Estuary barrages). The fifth type (Division barrages). Second: The role of the Menoufi main canal and the Bagouria canal in the construction of the Bagouria barrages: 1- The role of the Menoufi main canal in the construction of the Bagouria barrages. 2- The role of the Bagouria Canal in the construction of the Bagouria Barrage. Third: The descriptive study of the Bagouria Barrage: 1- Location. 2- Founder and date of construction 3- Architectural description. Fourth: The Analytical Study of the Bagouria barrage: 1. Architectural and constructional units and elements: A. Semi-circular arches B. Piers (central pillars) C. Side walls. D. Ceiling of the barrage. E. Balustrade of the Barrage. F. The Lock, (The iron gates - The manual tools) G- The barrage gates H- Drondat (side recesses) I- Balancing. J- The bedding. K- The Weir. L- The Cranes. M- The entrances to the Bagouria barrage. 2. The artistic and decorative elements of the Bagouria barrage. 3. Nilometers of the Bagouria barrage. 4. Building materials used in the Bagouria barrag. A- Concrete. B- Stone. C- Bricks. D- The mortar: 5. Functional purposes of the Al-Bagouria barrage. The research ends with A table showing the architectural, technical and structural terms used in the research, then the most important results and recommendations followed by a list of the sources and references consulted, and a catalog which includes the illustrative figures and plates used.

ABSTRACT: This work presents the dynamic response of a lock subjected to the horizontal S0E component of the El Centro earthquake for empty and completely filled water chamber cases, by coupled fluid-structure analysis. Initially, the lock was studied by approximation, considering it similar to the case of a double piston coupled to a two-dimensional acoustic cavity (tank), representing a simplified analytical model of the fluid-structure problem. This analytical formulation can be compared with numerical results, in order to qualify the responses of the ultimate problem to be investigated. In all the analyses performed, modeling and numerical simulations were done using the finite element method (FEM), supported by the commercial software ANSYS.

Background: This study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of vancomycin- lock therapy for the prevention of catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) in very low body weight (VLBW) preterm infant patients.Methods: One hundred and thirty-seven cases of VLBW preterm infants who retained peripherally inserted central catheters (PICCs) were retrospectively reviewed, including 68 treating with heparin plus vancomycin (vancomycin-lock group) and 69 with heparin only (control group). The incidence of CRBSI, related pathogenic bacteria, adverse events during the treatment, complications, antibiotic exposure, PICC usage time, hospital stay, etc. were compared between the above two groups.Results: The incidence rate of CRBSI in the vancomycin-lock group (4.4%, 3/68) was significantly less than in the control group (21.7%, 15/69, p = 0.004). Total antibiotic exposure time during the whole observation period was significantly shorter in the group than in the control group (11.2 ± 10.0 vs 23.6 ± 16.1 d; p < 0.001). No hypoglycemia occurred during the locking, and the blood concentrations of vancomycin were not detectable.Conclusions: Vancomycin-lock may effectively prevent CRBSI in Chinese VLBW preterm infants and reduce the exposure time of antibiotics, without causing obvious side complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The flow through partially-open control valves in navigation locks, particularly at the early portion of an operation cycle, is characterized by high velocities, flow recirculation, significant pressure drops, and pressure fluctuations within the culverts. Optimizing the flow control system is a key point in hydraulic projects of high-drop locks. In order to analyze the hydraulic parameters of the mean flow and turbulence statistics through a navigation lock control valve, experimental and numerical work was undertaken. This paper focuses on the numerical aspects of the research. A physical model with a rectangular culvert (25 cm x 25 cm) test section with a segment gate (Tainter) installed in its inverted position was used in the experimental research. Physical tests were carried out under steady conditions for six gate openings and nine discharges. During these tests, mean and instantaneous pressures were recorded along the base and the ceiling of the culvert. The numerical investigation was carried out using the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) software FLOW- 3D®. In FLOW- 3D® , the Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations were solved by the methods of finite volumes/finite differences in two dimensions. To solve the problem of closing RANS equations, the turbulence model k − ε was adopted. Based on the results, it was possible to verify that the numerical model very nicely reproduced the behavior of experimental data of mean hydraulic head and mean flow velocities. Although along the culvert ceiling, particularly close to the gate, the drop in mean pressure was slightly underestimated by the numerical model at the flow recirculating zone, it is possible to state with confidence that the overall results underscore the accuracy of this CFD approach in the study of the mean flow downstream from the control valves in navigation lock filling–emptying systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gravity current is the flow of fluid through another fluid of varying density. This flow often occurs in nature. For optimal management of water resource quality, it is necessary to know and study the gravity current. Naturally, many streams have a meandering path. There are also many blocks in different shapes (both natural and artificial). Therefore, in the present study, to control a lock-exchange gravity current, a triangular, rectangular, or trapezoidal rigid barrier was placed inside a curved channel with a curvature of 120 degrees and a radius (R) of one meter. Simulations were performed using the OpenFoam open-source software and the realizable k-ɛ turbulence model. The Reynolds number was 19700 in all of them. According to previous studies, in a block-free channel, the most secondary current occurs in the middle of the curve. In this study, to control the secondary current, the blocks were placed at 60 degrees of the curve. With an impediment, the secondary current was visible in the body and tail of the current but did not occur in the current head. The obstacle affected the pattern of the secondary currents so that the pattern was different around the block from the other locations. The barrier also reduced the spanwise velocity of the flow body. The concentration was maximum at the head of the stream, indicating that the barrier could affect the concentration along the stream so that the maximum concentration was behind the block. The current head was also affected by the block, as it did not advance for a moment on the inner bank; at these moments, the outer bank surpassed the inner bank. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Jet grouted piles for the Brunsbüttel lock with special consideration of the GW‐conditions At Europe's currently largest water engineering construction site, the construction of the fifth lock chamber in Brunsbüttel, so‐called jet grouted piles are used to anchor back the lock chamber walls and lock base. The use of these elements became necessary for several reasons: in the vicinity of the locks, which are over 100 years old, driving is not permitted, groundwater that attacks concrete (ammonium and sulphate) occurs in relevant proportions in the load transfer area and comparatively high loads of up to 2 600 kN must be transferred. The jet grouted piles consist of a jet column with a diameter of 1.0 m and lengths up to 7.5 m, into which a steel tension member (diameter up to 14 cm) is inserted. As there is no general approval by the building authorities for such jet grouted piles, the Federal Ministry of Transport and Digital Infrastructure (BMVI) granted approval in individual cases (ZiE) after extensive investigations and theoretical considerations. The jet grouted piles were chosen because the jet grouting of the subsoil creates an interlocking of the jet grout column with the subsoil due to different erosion resistances. Thus, using a cement with a low w/c‐value of 0.6, a permanent load transfer is guaranteed, even if the concrete is attacked. The jet grouted piles are used at depths from 25 m below ground level (in the load‐bearing sands). Comprehensive observations of the groundwater conditions and the nature of the groundwater were utilized to optimise the use of the jet grouted piles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traffic congestion in inland waterways caused by insufficient throughput capacity of locks has become a compelling problem in developed inland shipping countries. In order to avoid excessive time wasted in waiting for lock service, it is suggested that some types of cargoes should be unloaded at the quays and transported by road/train to their destinations, which is called water–land transshipment. By this means, the ships are divided into two groups that either pass the lock or are transshipped at the quays, engendering the lock and water–land transshipment co‐scheduling (LWTC) problem. This paper focuses on the LWTC, where the roll‐on roll‐off ships, passenger ships, and general cargo ships that can be transshipped and other ships that can only pass the lock are considered in a lock‐quay co‐scheduling system. The LWTC problem is decomposed into an outer‐layer main 0‐1 optimization problem and two inner‐layer subproblems: lock scheduling and berth allocation. A multiobjective optimization model is proposed for the LWTC problem based on its two‐layer structure. To solve the LWTC problem, a hybrid heuristic method is proposed, where a modified binary nondominated sorting genetic algorithm II is proposed to solve the main problem, and the two subproblems are solved by specific heuristics. The proposed model and hybrid method are tested on instances extracted from historical data of traffic at Three Gorges Dam, the results of which demonstrate the feasibility of the model and the superiority of the proposed hybrid heuristic method over other comparisons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents an experimental device that was created in order to obtain the real values of the forces acting in the vertical direction on the lock-off element, the so-called brake body, the 2nd design option. The lock of this design is used in the automated parking garage, designed by KOMA -- Industry, s.r.o, to lock the parked vehicles on pallets in the units of the rack parking system. The forces acting in the vertical direction on the body of the fixation lock when pushing the brake pulley into the circular recess in the brake ramp are theoretically calculated for two design variants of the brake ramp used in practice, i.e. "without" and "with" a rounded (filleted) circular recess segment in the brake ramp. The experimentally determined forces acting in the vertical direction on the brake body were determined for two types of compression coil springs with a rectangular cross section of the spring wire. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many popular accounts, as well as some learned studies, credit America with the development of interchangeability in firearms. This view is incorrect. Anyone who has even glanced at this aspect of firearms history will have encountered the name of Honoré Blanc, designer of the iconic Modèle 1777 Fusil d'infanterie which was to have a profound influence on firearms design, and his claim to have achieved interchangeability of lock components. Less well known, perhaps, is that a similar claim was made in Russia in the first quarter of the nineteenth century. Despite these claims, they do not seem to have inspired later study; this article suggests that both claims were true. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reconnecting the historical harbor Bad Karlshafen to the river Weser – Expedient lock planning Bad Karlshafen is a beautiful planned town at the northern tip of Hesse. In 1699 the founder, Earl Carl, ordered to drain the swampy area at the Diemel Estuary where it joined the Weser for creating a baroque town around the basin. The new town in the basin was designed to impress the crews of incoming ships with its marvelous architecture. For that the Earl used state‐of‐the‐art technology at the time which demonstrated his mastery over the landscape and nature. At present the historic lock doesn't operate and the bridge over the former harbor entrance is now a road embankment. This was changed and the historical harbor is reconnected to the river Weser. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Antimicrobial lock solutions are a low-cost strategy that can reduce the incidence of central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI). The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of antimicrobial locks for the prevention of CLABSI. Methods We constructed a decision-analytic model comparing antimicrobial lock solutions to heparin locks for the prevention of CLABSI in 3 settings: hemodialysis, cancer treatment, and home parenteral nutrition. Cost-effectiveness was determined by calculating CLABSIs prevented and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios. Uncertainty was addressed by plotting cost-effectiveness planes and acceptability curves for various willingness-to-pay thresholds. Results In probabilistic analysis, at a willingness to pay of $50000, antimicrobial lock solutions had a 96.24% chance of being cost-effective, compared with heparin locks in the hemodialysis setting, an 88.00% chance in the cancer treatment setting, and a 92.73% chance in the home parenteral nutrition setting. In base-case analysis, antimicrobial lock solutions resulted in savings of $68721.03 for the hemodialysis setting, $85061.41 for the cancer setting, and $78513.83 for the home parenteral nutrition setting per CLABSI episode prevented. Conclusions In 3 distinct and clinically important settings (hemodialysis, cancer treatment, and home parenteral nutrition), antimicrobial lock solutions are an effective strategy for the prevention of CLABSI, and their use can result in significant healthcare savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The paper presents the usage of the lower Vistula waterway on the basis of the number of floating units passing the Włocławek lock in the period 1997-2016. The Włocławek dam plays an important role in ensuring navigability on the inland waterway on the lower Vistula. The analysis revealed that the number of units locked in the Włocławek dam varied in particular years and was decreasing throughout the whole period. It depended on the serviceability of the lock and the hydrological conditions (water levels, ice phenomena). Throughout the year, water transportation was seasonal. The highest number of passing units falls on summer months (VI-VIII). Regarding the transportation type subdivision, freight traffic dominated over touristic traffic. An exception took place in the years with low water levels (mainly in summer), in which freight traffic was impossible, which resulted in a lack of delivery guarantee. A solution to that problem is the construction of intermodal transshipment ports along the waterway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]