The pion form factor from first principles

We calculate the electromagnetic form factor of the pion in quenched lattice QCD. The non-perturbatively improved Sheikoleslami-Wohlert lattice action is used together with the ${\mathcal O}(a)$ improved current. We calculate form factor for pion masses down to $m_\pi = 360 MeV$. We compare the mean square radius for the pion extracted from our form factors to the value obtained from the 'Bethe Salpeter amplitude'. Using (quenched) chiral perturbation theory, we extrapolate our results towards the physical pion mass.Comment: 5 pages, 2 figures; proceedings of Hadron03, Aschaffenburg, German

Valuation of functions of the Wadden Area

The rationale of this position paper is to explore ways to employ valuation methods to assess the impacts of alternative policy decisions on the functions of the Wadden Area. Based on this rationale, this paper aims to bring an ecological-economic perspective on the benefits of the Wadden Area. It highlights key issues involved in the notion and application of monetary valuation methods for valuing the (ecological) functions of the area. It also pays attention to the development of policy handles on the basis of the outcome of the valuation of ecological functions. Particularly, the paper discuss Payment for Environmental Services (PES), which aims at preservation and protection by purchasing conservation. The use of a valuation instrument within a Payment for Environmental Services Scheme is new. Valuation is of course an established technique within a Cost-Benefit framework. However, Payment for Environmental Services is an innovative way of designing policy instruments in the collaboration between ecologists and economist

Seaweed as feed supplement (OK-Net EcoFeed Practice Abstract)

• Effectivity might differ depending on the seaweed type, harvest season and processing method. Brown and red seaweed species may be better than green. • Several commercial seaweed products can be used, and it is important to ask for documentation of effect before relying on e.g. effect on diarrhoea. • High levels of macro and micro minerals have to be taken into account when composing diets with seaweed. • Many seaweed extracts are available, which may not be suitable for organic production

Variables influencing the frictional behaviour of in vivo human skin

In the past decades, skin friction research has focused on determining which variables are important to affect the frictional behaviour of in vivo human skin. Until now, there is still limited knowledge on these variables. This study has used a large dataset to identify the effect of variables on the human skin, subject characteristics and environmental conditions on skin friction. The data are obtained on 50 subjects (34 male, 16 female). Friction measurements represent the friction between in vivo human skin and an aluminium sample, assessed on three anatomical locations. The coefficient of friction increased significantly (p<0.05) with increasing age, increasing ambient temperature and increasing relative air humidity. A significant inversely proportional relationship was found between friction and both the amount of hair present on the skin and the height of the subject. Other outcome variables in this study were the hydration of the skin and the skin temperatur

Starfish as feedstuff (OK-Net Ecofeed Practice Abstract)

• Starfish should be harvested, at the earliest, three months before spawning to have highest protein and lowest ash content. • High calcium levels limit the inclusion level of starfish meal in piglets’ diets to around 5%. • Starfish meal is not organically certified but can still be used because it is not of agricultural origin. • Starfish meal is already commercially available in Denmark. • Diets can be optimized regarding amino acids and with lower crude protein