Abstract: A semiconductor device structure comprises an active layer and a buffer layer. The active layer is a quantum well structure. There is a lattice mismatch between the buffer layer and the active layer which places the active layer under biaxial compressive strain. Uniaxial tensile strain is applied to the active layer to reduce compressive strain on the active layer in a second direction but not in a first direction. This favours hole and electron mobility in the first direction, rendering the semiconductor device structure suitable for the formation of both p-channel and n-channel devices.

Abstract: A system (20) and method by virtue of which a preferred data provider is selected from a plurality of data providers (30) by performing the steps of receiving a request for data from a client (10) together with client identification data, identifying a plurality of data providers (30) capable of providing data to the client (10), providing the client identification data to the data providers and instructing the data providers to perform tests in order to establish a measure of the elapsed time for a signal to be sent to and received from the client, and a measure indicative of their remaining capacity for data transfer, and to make these measures available to the system (20). One or more preferred data providers (30) may then be selected on the basis of the elapsed time signals and the remaining capacity signals from said data providers.

Abstract: A method for reducing bacterial enteropathogens in fowl subjected to feed withdrawal, involving withdrawing feed from fowl and orally administering to the fowl an effective amount of a cocktail sufficient to reduce bacterial enteropathogens in the crop of the fowl, wherein the cocktail contains contains water, a carbohydrate (e.g., glucose, sucrose), and optionally a protein source, a vitamin source, an organic acid, an emulsifier, a mineral source, and mixtures thereof.

Abstract: An equipment securing apparatus for securing equipment to an exterior surface of a vehicle includes first and second support members attached to the vehicle and an elongate shaft extending between the support members and projecting outwardly beyond the vehicle body panel. An engagement member is provided for engaging and retaining equipment on the exterior of the vehicle and a latching assembly is provided to retain the engagement member in a securing relationship with the equipment. Optionally, the equipment securing apparatus may be used with an open vehicle in a matter similar to the manner used with an enclosed vehicle.