Listeria is a dangerous bacteria found in unpasteurized milk, raw meat, unwashed vegetables, deli meats, and pre-cooked salads. It can cause serious illness, especially in pregnant women, infants, and those with weakened immune systems. Symptoms include fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, and can lead to encephalitis and meningitis. The infection is treated with antibiotics. High-risk individuals […]
TERCOM is an automated navigation system used by unmanned aerial vehicles, such as cruise missiles. It uses a predefined contour map of the flight path and a radar altimeter to make precise course corrections and avoid radar detection. The system is highly accurate and reliable, but lacks pre-launch flexibility. TERCOM is an automated navigation system […]
Rhubarb chutney is a condiment made from rhubarb, sugar, and vinegar. It can be sweet or spicy and is often served with bread, cheese, or as a dip. Common ingredients include cinnamon, ginger, onions, and strawberries. It can be served hot or cold and is versatile in its uses. A condiment, rhubarb chutney is made […]
The yakuza are Japanese criminal organizations and members of these organizations. They have a long history and are involved in violent activities such as extortion, racketeering, and protection schemes. Yakuza culture is hierarchical and includes ritual ceremonies and distinctive tattoos. They have influence over certain aspects of Japanese society and are involved in gambling, sports, […]
A Request for Quotation (RFQ) is a document inviting bids from potential suppliers for standard products or services, with detailed specifications, delivery dates, payment terms, quality assurance, and a deadline for submission. RFQs benefit both parties by increasing buying power and competition. Templates and standardized forms are available online. RFQs are one of four “request […]
A radar altimeter measures an aircraft’s absolute altitude above the ground by directing radio waves at the ground and reading the reflected signals. It is an essential flight aid and part of the ground proximity warning system, providing accurate ground clearance and runway clearance readings. Radar altimeters have limited range but are critical for early […]
A glory hole is a large excavation area created during mining or construction projects. It can be used to create an ore shaft or open pit mine, and can also occur as a result of the block caving method. The term can also refer to excavations for building basements. A “glory hole” is a term […]
The Roanoke settlers attempted to establish an English colony on Roanoke Island twice in 1585 and 1586. The second attempt was successful for a while, but the colonists disappeared, leaving behind the word “CROATOAN” carved into a tree. Theories suggest they moved to nearby Croat Island, Pembroke, or Chesapeake Bay. Croatoan Island is now known […]
Lead sleds were heavily repaired cars filled with lead, which became popular in the US after WWII. Lead was a popular filler material until polymer resins were developed. Lead sleds were typically heavy and sleek, with more importance on looks than performance. The term can also refer to modified vehicles and heavy aircraft with poor […]
HACCP is a food safety system that ensures compliance with FDA standards for the entire food supply chain. Each company has its own HACCP system, with diverse standards for food preparation, storage, and shipping. HACCP helps ensure food safety and minimize product liability risks. A HACCP system is a food safety system that companies use […]
The single plate is the load-bearing beam of a wall, forming the foundation of a building. It must be made of the correct wood and secured to the masonry foundation with bolts or lags. A sill seal can prevent water absorption. Treated lumber or rot-resistant woods are recommended. If damaged, the plate can be replaced. […]
Halon gas is used in fire extinguishing systems, with safer types replacing older versions. It quickly extinguishes fires without damaging objects and is popular in computer labs, museums, and libraries. Halon gas can produce toxic byproducts, and its manufacture was banned in 1994 due to environmental risks. Existing systems are still permitted to use halon, […]
Parasuicide, or deliberate self-harm that appears to be a suicide attempt, is often a cry for help and is most common among women aged 15 to 25 living in difficult conditions. Other mental health problems and relationship issues are often present. Suicidal ideation can also be a cry for help and should be taken seriously. […]
Shipbreaking involves hiring a ship broker to find cargo for transport and negotiate agreements for international trade. Brokers can handle any size and type of cargo, including hazardous materials, and may also be responsible for finding buyers. Ship brokers can also charter vessels for rescue or exploration missions and book cruises and tours. The job […]
Baumkuchen is a traditional German cake cooked on a spit over a heat source, with layers of batter brushed on top of each other until covered in chocolate, jam, sugar or icing. Its history is unclear, but it became famous in the mid-19th century after King Frederick William IV of Prussia tasted it. While it […]
An air conditioning system has three parts: compressor, condenser, and evaporator. The compressor compresses low-pressure gas into high-pressure gas, which is cooled in the condenser and turned into a liquid in the evaporator. The fluid used is a refrigerant, with ozone-friendly options available. Cleaning or replacing air filters can extend the life of the compressor. […]
Blue steel and galvanized steel have different colors due to their different corrosion protection procedures. Blue steel is passivated to achieve a bluish hue, while galvanized steel is dipped in molten zinc and exposed to the atmosphere. Blue steel is commonly used in the arms industry and for steel structures, while galvanized steel is used […]
Free ports near ports or airports offer relaxed customs controls and duties, allowing goods to be stored tax-free for reshipment. They are essential for distributing goods and keeping the flow of products consistent, timely, and profitable. Free ports, also known as free zones or free economic zones, are areas located near ports of call that […]
Elbow hinges are special hardware used to hang cabinet doors. They allow doors to open further than standard hinges and can allow up to 180 degrees of opening. There are single, half, and double hinges, with self-closing and standard versions available. Stainless steel, brass, or galvanized materials offer added protection against rust or corrosion. An […]
Vulcanized rubber is made more durable through a biochemical process called vulcanization, discovered by Charles Goodyear in 1839. It combines rubber and sulfur under high pressure and temperature, making it more stable, harder, and resistant to heat. Vulcanized rubber is used in various products, including automobile tires, gaskets, belts, shoe soles, and hockey pucks. Vulcanized […]
