bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An overdetermined phase-stepping strategy for the capture of high-quality photoelastic data
Authors: Jones I A , Wang P
Published: July 2005

An overdetermined extension to the phase-stepping approach to digital photoelasticity is described in order to obtain high-quality photoelastic data for use in the examination of contact problems. A framework is adapted from earlier work by Ambirajan and Look and is applied to the generalization of existing phase-stepping strategies and the synthesis of new overdetermined variants on the method. The optimality of these strategies is demonstrated computationally, and the influence of errors in quarter-wave plate orientation and assumed isoclinic angle is explored. Sample experimental results are presented, which demonstrate the excellent performance of the system when used with narrow-bandwidth filters to approximate the use of monochromatic light. When the internal filters integral with the colour camera were used, the results were also of high quality up to a relative retardation of around 4.5 measured on the green channel, but measurements of higher fringe orders were progressively degraded owing to the broad bandwidths of the camera's internal filters.
Weight functions for T-stress for semi-elliptical surface cracks in finite-thickness plates
Authors: Yu Xiao , Wang Xin
Published: July 2005

This paper presents the application of the weight function method for the calculation of elastic T-stress for semi-elliptical surface cracks. First, the weight function method for the calculation of T-stress previously developed for two-dimensional crack problems was extended for the T-stress calculation for three-dimensional crack problems. Then, the T-stress weight functions for the deepest point (corresponding to the parametric angle ϕ = 90°) and for any general point (5° ≤ ϕ < 90°) along the crack front of semi-elliptical surface cracks in finite-thickness plates for wide ranges of crack aspect ratios a/c and relative depths a/t were derived. The resulting weight functions were validated using available finite element results for non-linear stress fields and remote tension and bending cases, and very good agreement was achieved. The weight functions are suitable for the calculation of the T-stress under complex loading conditions for any general point (5° ≤ ϕ ≤ 90°) of surface cracks with wide ranges of aspect ratios, 0 ≤ a/c ≤ 1, and relative depths, 0 ≤ a/t ≤ 0.8.
Microdefect interacting with a finite main crack
Authors: Yan Xiangqiao
Published: July 2005

This paper deals with the microdefect-finite main crack linear elastic interaction by means of a displacement discontinuity method with crack-tip elements. It consists of the non-singular displacement discontinuity element presented by Crouch and Starfield and the crack-tip displacement discontinuity elements presented by the author. Two models are used: one is ‘a finite main crack interaction with a collinear elliptical microdefect (hole)’ in an infinite medium; the other is ‘a finite main crack interaction with a pair of symmetric collinear elliptical microdefects (holes)’ in an infinite medium. In numerical computations, the ratio of the elliptical horizontal axis length to the main crack length is varied from 0.05 to 0.4 and the elliptical aspect ratio is taken as 0.0, 0.5, and 1.0. Thus, the present numerical results reveal the effect that the relative size of the elliptical microdefect (hole) to the main crack has on the microdefect-finite main crack interaction.
Comparison of methods for obtaining crack-tip stress distributions in an elastic-plastic material
Authors: Davies C. M , O'Dowd N. P , Nikbin K. M , Webster G A , Biglari F
Published: July 2005

Under linear elastic and elastic-plastic conditions the K field and the HRR (Hutchinson-Rice-Rosengren) field respectively are expected to provide an accurate representation of the stress field close to the crack tip in an elastic-plastic material. It has recently been proposed in French and UK defect assessment procedures that the Neuber method, originally developed for sharply curved notches, provides an alternative approach to estimate both notch and crack-tip stress fields, for use in conjunction with the sigma- d (σd) method to predict creep crack initiation times. In this work, the crack-tip stress fields under plane strain conditions, predicted from the Neuber approach, are compared with the HRR and K fields as well as those obtained from full-field finite element calculations. A compact tension and a single edge notched tension specimen have been examined; the material model used is the Ramberg-Osgood, power law plasticity model. As expected, the K field and HRR field have been found to provide a good representation of the near-tip fields at low and high loads respectively. Satisfactory solutions have also been obtained through the use of the reference stress to estimate the amplitude of the crack-tip stress in conjunction with the HRR field. The Neuber approach provides a good estimate of the equivalent (von Mises) stresses over the full range of load levels. However, but the use of the Neuber approach directly to predict the maximum principal stress in the plane of the crack provides a non-conservative prediction. A modified Neuber method, using an appropriate scaling function, has been proposed to determine the maximum principal stress in the plane of the crack from the equivalent (von Mises) stress predicted by the Neuber approach. Using the proposed method, a significantly improved estimate of the crack-tip stresses is obtained.
Investigation of the effect of damage on the strength of notched composite laminates by digital image correlation
Authors: Ambu R , Aymerich F , Bertolino F
Published: July 2005

In this paper the results of an experimental investigation on the effect of subcritical damage on the residual strength properties of notched composite laminates are presented. A procedure based on the digital image correlation method was applied to laminates subjected to static and fatigue tensile loading. The digital image correlation method (DICM) is a whole-field technique that calculates surface displacements and strains from digital images characterized by a random distribution of intensity grey levels.

Graphite/PEEK (polyether ether ketone) and graphite/epoxy laminates with different stacking sequences were analysed and the damage progression near the stress riser was evaluated by means of the strain maps obtained by digital image correlation. It was found that damage developing before final fracture may significantly affect the structural performance of composite laminates. The digital image correlation technique allowed clarification of the beneficial or detrimental role played by the different failure mechanisms on the strain redistribution around the hole and, as a consequence, on the residual strength and fatigue life of notched samples.

The findings of the investigation suggest that the DICM is an efficient and reliable tool for full-field monitoring and detailed damage characterization of structural composite elements.
Investigation of High-Frequency Squeal in a Disc Brake System Using a Friction Layer-Based Coupling Stiffness
Authors: Paliwal M , Mahajan A , Don J , Chu T , Filip P
Published: July 2005

This paper presents a two degree of freedom model for disk brake systems that makes use of the concept of a friction layer-based coupling stiffness. This model is then used to investigate noise and vibration, especially high-frequency squeal. It is shown that for automotive brake systems, the friction layer plays a significant role in the performance characteristics. Hence, the coupling stiffness between the brake pad and the rotor is modelled as a combination of the elastic stiffness of the friction layer superimposed on the coupling modal stiffness of the brake-pad combination. The elastic properties of the friction layer are obtained from nano-indentor tests and the contact area is approximated using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The coupling modal stiffnesses are obtained from impact tests and finite element studies. Preliminary results from the model are consistent with the actual high squeal data collected from the field. The main objective of this work is to introduce a new way of modelling the coupling stiffness based on the properties of the friction layer, which has not been extensively studied till now.
Interpreting Three-Dimensional Shape Distributions
Authors: Rea H J , Sung R , Corney J R , Clark D E R , Taylor N K
Published: July 2005

Effective content-based shape retrieval systems would allow engineers to search databases of three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD) models for objects with specific geometries or features. Much of the academic work in this area has focused on the development of indexing schemes based on different types of three-dimensional to two-dimensional ‘shape functions’. Ideally, the shape function used to generate a distribution should be easy to compute and permit the discrimination of both large and small features. The work reported in this paper describes the properties of three new shape distributions based on computationally simple shape functions. The first shape function calculates the arithmetic difference between distributions derived (using the original D2 distance shape function) from both a three-dimensional model and its convex hull. The second shape function is obtained by sampling the angle between random pairs of facets on the object. The third shape function uses the surface orientation to filter the results of a distance distribution. The results reported in this paper suggest that these novel shape functions improve significantly the ability of shape distributions to discriminate between complex engineering parts.
Discontinuously Movable Seven-Link Mechanisms Via Group-Algebraic Approach
Authors: Lee C-C , Hervé J. M.
Published: July 2005

Combining planar and spherical 4R chains generates three kinds of new discontinuously movable (DM) seven-link mechanisms. The mobility analysis is based on algebraic concepts of set theory. These mechanisms are called hybrid planar-spherical 7R, hybrid spherical-spherical 7R, and hybrid planar-planar 6RIP DM mechanisms. Their discontinuous mobility is explained employing the Lie group algebraic properties of the displacement set. Moreover, the same given spatial arrangement of joints can be linked in two ways constituting two distinct chains, which have a quite different mobility. One chain has two global degrees of freedom (d.o.f.), which disobey the general Grubler-Kutzbach mobility criterion. The other chain exhibits a singular pose, which is a bifurcation towards two distinct working modes of mobility with one d.o.f. Then the set of relative motions between any two specific links is not manifold but consists of the union of displacement one-dimensional manifolds. In general, when two or more subgroups are involved in a closed-loop chain, the discontinuous mobility can happen by changing the order of the kinematic pair linking.
A Unified Approach to Reheat in Gas and Steam Turbine Cycles
Authors: Lewins J
Published: July 2005

A model of fluid behaviour is proposed for both air and steam in Joule, Brayton, and Rankine cycles by assuming that enthalpy is a function of temperature only. This enables reheat to be treated in a unified manner for both gas and steam turbines. Theorems for maximum power and maximum thermal efficiency are presented, with extensions to inter-cooling in gas turbines and afterburners in turbo-jet craft.
Generation of 9-Stannaphenanthrene and Its Reactivities
Authors: Mizuhata Yoshiyuki , Takeda Nobuhiro , Sasamori Takahiro , Tokitoh Norihiro
Published: July 2005

A neutral stannaaromatic compound, 9-stannaphenanthrene 1a bearing an efficient steric protection group, 2,4,6-tris[bis(trimethylsilyl)methyl]phenyl (Tbt), was successfully generated by the reaction of the corresponding chlorostannane 2 with lithium 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidide in THF at −78 °C. The generaion of 1a was indicated by the trapping experiments using MeOD, Mes*CNO, and 2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene at the same temperature. However, 1a was found to undergo ready dimerization at room temperature to give the cis-[2 + 2] dimer 3 stereoselectively.
Single-component Molecular Conductor [Zn(tmdt)2] and Related Zn Complexes
Authors: Yamamoto Kimiko , Fujiwara Emiko , Kobayashi Akiko , Fujishiro Yuichi , Nishibori Eiji , Sakata Makoto , Takata Masaki , Tanaka Hisashi , Okano Yoshinori , Kobayashi Hayao
Published: July 2005

Single-component molecular conductors based on zinc complexes with filled 3d shells and extended-TTF ligands, [ZnL2] (L = tmdt, dmdt, and dt) were prepared. The crystal structure of semiconducting [Zn(tmdt)2] (ρ (rt) ≈ 50 Ω cm) was determined by the synchrotron radiation X-ray powder diffraction experiments. The molecule has a tetrahedral geometry and two ligand planes are almost perpendicular to each other.
An Abrupt Spin Crossover FeII Complex Based on Homochiral Chain
Authors: Bréfuel Nicolas , Shova Sergiu , Tuchagues Jean-Pierre , Matsumoto Naohide
Published: July 2005

A new FeII complex with a linear hexadentate ligand involving one terminal imidazole and one terminal imidazolato moiety, [FeHL2-Me]ClO4, has been synthesized, where H2L2-Me denotes [bis(2-methyl-4-formylimidazolidene)aminopropyl]ethylenediamine. This complex shows an abrupt spin-crossover at T1/2 = 165.5 K and assumes a homochiral 1D chain structure through hydrogen bonds between the imidazole and imidazolato groups of adjacent molecules.
Controlled Crystallization of Ultrafine Titanium Dioxide Particles in the Presence of Hydrophilic or Amphiphilic Polymer from Peroxotitanic Acid
Authors: Yoshinaga Kohji , Yamauchi Masato , Maruyama Daisuke , Mouri Emiko , Koyanagi Tsuguo
Published: July 2005

Controlled crystallization of titanium dioxide ultrafine particles in the presence of water-soluble polymer from peroxotitanic acid was investigated. Heating of aqueous solution of peroxotitanic acid with the polymer at 220 °C for 5 h in an autoclave gave the suspension containing nanometer-sized TiO2 particles with perfectly controlled crystalline anatase or rutile.
Rate Enhancement of Lipase-catalyzed Reaction in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Matsuda Tomoko , Tsuji Kazuhiko , Kamitanaka Takashi , Harada Tadao , Nakamura Kaoru , Ikariya Takao
Published: July 2005

Lipase-catalyzed kinetic resolution of various 1-arylethanols was performed in supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2), in hexane and without solvent. The use of scCO2 enhances reactivity especially when a cross-linked enzyme aggregate (CLEA) was used.
Preparation of Porous Poly(l-lactic acid) Composite Containing Hydroxyapatite Whiskers
Authors: Mizutani Yoichiro , Hattori Masateru , Okuyama Masahiko , Kasuga Toshihiro , Nogami Masayuki
Published: July 2005

A new type of porous biomaterial for bone repair was successfully prepared using poly(l-lactic acid) short fibers of ≈700 μm and hydroxyapatite whiskers (W-HAs) of 60 μm (in average length). When W-HAs of ≤70 wt % were introduced, the composites could have about 80% porosity including numerous, interconnecting pores of >10 μm in diameter. W-HAs play an important role in formation of the pores, which allow penetration of nutriments and ingrowth of bone cells.
Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of ZnO 3D Nanostructures
Authors: Zhou Fu , Zhao Xuemei , Zheng Huagui , Shen Tao , Tang Chenming
Published: July 2005

Uniform flower-like ZnO 3D nanostructures were successfully synthesized by a common hydrothermal method using KNO3 as inorganic mineralizer. The electrochemical properties of as-synthesized ZnO 3D nanostructures were studied by galvanostatic tests, indicating that the ZnO 3D nanostructured products may be good choice for anode materials in the Li ion batteries.
Schizophyllan Acts as a One-dimensional Host to Accommodate 5,10,15,20-Tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrinatozinc Acetate to Produce Its Fibrous Superstructure
Authors: Hasegawa Teruaki , Fujisawa Tomohisa , Numata Munenori , Li Chun , Bae Ah-hyun , Haraguchi Shuichi , Sakurai Kazuo , Shinkai Seiji
Published: July 2005

We established a novel strategy to construct porphyrin-nanofibers which may mimic a fibrous porphyrin-assembly observed in a natural light harvesting system in green bacterium. Our strategy utilizes alignment of 5,10,15,20-tetrakis(4-carboxyphenyl)porphyrinatozinc acetate in schizophyllan having one dimensional cavity along its helical superstructure. The resultant schizophyllan/porphyrin complex generates fibrous superstructures, in which porphyrins are aligned in a chirally-twisted packing mode.
Nasal polyposis in France: impact on sleep and quality of life
Authors: Serrano Elie , Neukirch Françoise , Pribil Céline , Jankowski Roger , Klossek Jean-Michel , Chanal Isabelle , El Hasnaoui Abdelkader
Published: July 2005

The prevalence of nasal polyposis (NP) in France (2.11 per cent) and its epidemiology (detection, medical management, patients' characteristics, risk factors, associated diseases, etc.) were determined in a population-based, cross-sectional, case–control study of 10 033 adults carried out in 2002. The impact of this disease on daily living was also studied, by the analysis of potential sleep disorders (validated questionnaire) and quality of life (QOL, SF-36 questionnaire) of NP patients, in a comparison with a matched-control group of individuals without NP.

A quarter of NP patients (24.6 per cent) reported a feeling of general discomfort due to their nasal condition, during the day as well as the night in most of these cases (61.2 per cent). Compared with controls, NP patients have a two-fold higher risk of suffering sleep disturbance (odds ratio [OR]: 2.25, 95 per cent confidence interval [95% CI] [1.54; 3.29]). Snoring was reported by 50.5 per cent of NP patients vs 35.7 per cent of controls (p < 0.001). All scores from the SF-36 questionnaire demonstrated a significant negative impact of NP on the different aspects of QOL.

The current study underlines the negative impact of NP on QOL and sleep, two dimensions that are rarely considered in its pathology. In addition to the discomfort and lowered QOL experienced by patients with this disease, a significant increase in sleep disorders was shown, suggesting a risk of suffering further chronic diseases and complications.
Cervical cystic hygroma/lymphangioma: an acquired idiopathic late presentation
Authors: Karkos P D , Spencer M G , Lee M , Hamid B N
Published: July 2005

Lymphangiomas or cystic hygromas are relatively uncommon congenital malformations of the lymphatic system which usually present in the first years of childhood. Presentation in adult life is rare. We present a case of cervical adult cystic hygroma and discuss radiological and histopathological features as well as the management of these neck masses.
Audiological findings in patients with ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Alatas Necat , Yazgan Pelin , Oztürk Adil , San Imran , Iynen Ismail
Published: July 2005

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease. The aim of this investigation was to study the relationship between AS and hearing loss. This study compared 28 patients with AS with 23 age-matched controls. All subjects underwent ENT examination, audiological and acoustic immittance measurements, and auditory brainstem response (ABR) tests. Sensorineural hearing loss was found in 28.6 per cent of the AS patients and in 4.35 per cent of the control group. For hearing levels at 250–500 Hz and 4000–8000 Hz, there was a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Acoustic reflex was not obtained in both ears of four patients and the left ear of one patient. There was a correlation between increase of tympanic volume and limitation in neck movement, between extension of 1–3 interpeak latency and limitation in the neck movement. In conclusion, AS affects the inner ear more than the middle ear.
Schwannoma of the palatine tonsil
Authors: Anil H T , Chandre Gowda B V , Lakshmi S , Niveditha S R
Published: July 2005

Schwannoma is a solitary, benign tumour arising from the neural sheath Schwann cells of the peripheral, cranial or autonomic nerves. In the head and neck region, it occurs most commonly in association with the acoustic nerve within the skull and is rarely found in oral structures. When it is found in oral structures, the tongue is reported to be the favoured site. Schwannoma of the tonsil is extremely rare, with only two cases reported in the literature. We report what is, to our knowledge, the third case of schwannoma of the tonsil, diagnosed by histopathology.
Eye observation and corneal protection during endonasal surgery
Authors: Cuddihy P J , Whittet H
Published: July 2005

Traumatic orbital complications of endonasal surgery, although rare, are a cause of significant morbidity. Although a variety of methods of monitoring eye function during surgery have been described, the best method remains direct perioperative observation of the eye. However, the eye must also be protected during surgery otherwise corneal drying will occur and corneal abrasion may result. This article describes and illustrates the use of Geliperm®, a sterile, transparent, pliant hydrogel dressing, as a corneal protector allowing continuous observation of the eye during endonasal surgery.
Leaving nursing: an event-history analysis of nurses' careers
Authors: Barron David , West Elizabeth
Published: July 2005

Objectives: The current shortage of nurses is a major problem for health care systems around the world and has revitalized interest in the dynamics of nurses' careers. This paper investigates the factors associated with qualified nurses in Britain moving to different employment statuses, including jobs outside nursing, unemployment, maternity leave and family care over time.

Methods: British Household Panel Survey (BHPS) data collected between 1991 and 2001 were used to estimate the effects of covariates on transition rates between different employment statuses.

Results: Individual characteristics associated with shorter tenure in the profession include being male, being younger, having a degree, and having been born in the UK. Many nurses leave to care for their families, which suggests the possibility of returning to the profession at a later date. A number of job characteristics are also related to leaving, including low pay, managerial responsibility, full-time work and lack of opportunities to use initiative. Nurses seem to be particularly vulnerable to leaving early in their careers, but those who survive the first few years are likely to remain in the profession for the rest of their working lives.

Conclusions: It is particularly important in policy terms that ability to use initiative is related to leaving nursing for another form of full-time employment and, in particular, to leaving for a better job. This finding is consistent with results from studies of the Magnet hospitals in the US. Taken together, these results suggest that strategies to improve nurse retention must attend to nurses' status, authority and position in the hierarchy if they are to be successful. The results also provide strong support for those who argue that better rates of pay are necessary in order to improve nurse retention.
Why modelling a complex intervention is an important precursor to trial design: lessons from studying an intervention to reduce falls-related injuries in older people
Authors: Eldridge Sandra , Spencer Anne , Cryer Colin , Parsons Suzanne , Underwood Martin , Feder Gene
Published: July 2005

Objectives: To develop a cost-effectiveness model of a complex intervention from pilot study data in order to inform the viability and design of a subsequent falls prevention trial.

Methods: We used two models; the first estimated the probability of falling over a 12-month period based on a probability tree; the second used Markov simulation to assess the impact of the programme over time.

Results: The first model indicated that our intervention would reduce the proportion falling by only 2.8% over a 12-month period. The major reason for this small effect was that less than a quarter of older people at risk of falling were assessed using our screening tool. Even if policy-makers were willing to spend £30,000 per quality-adjusted life-year gained, there is only a 40% chance that the intervention would be cost-effective. Sensitivity analyses showed that the only scenarios that produced a substantial increase in the effect of the intervention were those in which all older people are assessed.

Conclusions: The model-building approach described in this paper is vital when designing complex trials and where a trial is not possible. Information from the modelling can be used to re-design the intervention. The effectiveness of our proposed intervention appears very small due to its inability to reach those at risk of falling. It is most likely not to be cost-effective. If inability to reach the target group is a weakness common to other similar interventions, this suggests an area for further research.
When is research on patient records without consent ethical?
Authors: Parker Michael
Published: July 2005

Current regulations do not allow most low-risk research using patient records without patient consent. One of the main reasons adduced for this is that such research constitutes an unacceptable breach of confidentiality. By contrast, it is argued in this paper that it may, on occasion, be acceptable for confidentiality to be breached according to all three of the major ethical justifications for respecting patient confidentiality. In practice, the arguments against allowing research using patient records are usually grounded in claims about the link between confidentiality and respect for patient autonomy rather than legitimate patient expectations. Patients may have good reason to expect, or come to expect, that their records will be used without their consent for low-risk research, under certain conditions. Where this is the case, such expectations provide reasonable grounds for considering such research to be ethical.
The effectiveness, acceptability and costs of a hospital-at-home service compared with acute hospital care: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Harris Roger , Ashton Toni , Broad Joanna , Connolly Gary , Richmond David
Published: July 2005

Objective: To compare the safety, effectiveness, acceptability and costs of a hospital-at-home programme with usual acute hospital inpatient care.

Method: Patients aged 55 years or over being treated for an acute medical problem were randomized to receive either standard inpatient hospital care or hospital-at-home care. Follow-up was for 90 days after randomization. Health outcome measures included physical and mental function, self-rated recovery, health status as assessed by the SF-36, adverse events and readmissions to hospital. Acceptability was assessed using satisfaction surveys and the Carer Strain Index. Costs comprised hospital care, care in the home, community services, general practitioner services and personal health care expenses.

Results: In all, 285 people were randomized with a mean age of 80 years. There were no significant differences in health outcome measures between the two randomized groups. Significantly more patients receiving care at home reported high levels of satisfaction, as did more of their relatives. Relatives of the care-at-home group also reported significantly lower scores on the Carer Strain Index. However, the mean cost per patient was almost twice for patients treated at home (NZ$6524) as for standard hospital care (NZ$3525). A sensitivity analysis indicated that, if the service providing care in the home had been operating at full capacity, the mean cost per patient episode would have been similar for both modes of care.

Conclusions: This hospital-at-home programme was found to be more acceptable and as effective and safe as inpatient care. While caring for patients at home was significantly more costly than standard inpatient care, this was largely due to the hospital-at-home programme not operating at full capacity.
Access to health care for people with learning disabilities in the UK: mapping the issues and reviewing the evidence
Authors: Alborz Alison , McNally Rosalind , Glendinning Caroline
Published: July 2005

Objectives: People with learning disabilities are more prone to a wide range of additional physical and mental health problems than the general population. Our aim was to map the issues and review the evidence on access to health care for these patients. The review sought to identify theory, evidence and gaps in knowledge relating to the help-seeking behaviour of people with learning disabilities and their carers, barriers and problems they experience accessing the full range of health services, and practical and effective interventions aiming to improve access to health care.

Methods: A three-strand approach was adopted, involving searches of electronic databases, a consultation exercise and a mail shot to researchers and learning disability health professionals. Evidence relevant to our model of 'access' was evaluated for scientific rigour and selected papers synthesized.

Results: Overall, a lack of rigorous research in this area was noted and significant gaps in the evidence base were apparent. Evidence was identified on the difficulties in identifying health needs among people with learning disabilities and the potentially empowering or obstructive influence of third parties on access to health care. Barriers to access identified within health services included problems with communication, inadequate facilities, rigid procedures and lack of appropriate interpersonal skills among mainstream health care professionals in caring for these patients. A number of innovations designed to improve access were identified, including a communication aid, a prompt card to support general practitioners, health check programmes and walk-in clinics.

Conclusion: There are important gaps in the knowledge base on access to health care for this group. While these need to be addressed, developing strategies to overcome identified barriers should be a priority, along with fuller evaluation of existing innovations.
An Investigation into the Adsorption of Aniline from Aqueous Solution Using H-Beta Zeolites and Copper-Exchanged Beta Zeolites
Authors: O'Brien J. , Curtin T. , O'Dwyer T.F.
Published: July 2005

Zeolite beta, a large-pore zeolite, was investigated in this study with a view to examining it as a potential adsorbent for the removal of aniline from aqueous solutions. Two different metal-loaded zeolites were prepared by exchanging H-beta zeolite (SiO2/Al2O3 = 75:1) with copper. The influence of exchanged copper on the uptake level was assessed. The effect of varying the silica-to-alumina ratio of the H-beta zeolite on the aniline uptake level was also examined, using three different H-beta zeolites with ratios of 25:1, 75:1 and 150:1 as adsorbents.

The sorption experiments indicated an uptake level of ca. 110–120 mg/g for each zeolite and this level was also adsorbed by the copper-modified H-beta zeolites (SiO2/Al2O3 = 75:1). In all cases, the adsorption process followed the Langmuir model for adsorption and the level of aniline adsorbed was largely unaffected by a change in temperature or the presence of extra framework copper.

The stability of the exchanged copper on these zeolites was then examined by measuring the quantity of copper leached from each zeolite into solution as a function of pH. Minimum copper leaching was observed in the pH range 5–11. This provided a stable pH working range for the adsorbent materials.
Adsorption of Reactive Brilliant Blue XBR onto Polymeric Adsorbents from Single- and Binary-Solute Solutions
Authors: Zhaoyang Lu , Chao Long , Aimin Li , Zhenmao Jiang , Wei Liu , Jinlong Chen , Quanxing Zhang
Published: July 2005

A non-ionic polymer adsorbent (NPA) and its aminated polymeric adsorbent (APA) were prepared and characterized towards adsorption from aqueous solution. Two adsorbates, Reactive Brilliant Blue XBR and 2,4-diaminobenzene sulphonic acid (ABSA), were chosen as adsorbates for competitive adsorption from single-solute solution and binary-solute systems onto the two adsorbents prepared.

The results showed that APA, the polymer obtained after amination, exhibited a higher adsorption capacity than NPA towards XBR from the single-solute solution. However, in binary-solute solution adsorption, the presence of ABSA reduced the adsorption capacity towards XBR due to direct competition between XBR and ABSA for the same adsorption sites. This resulted in similar adsorption capacities towards XBR for NPA and APA. Moreover, the adsorption selectivity coefficients obtained for XBR onto ABSA in simultaneous adsorption tests suggested that NPA exhibited more favourable adsorption properties towards the adsorption of XBR from binary-solute systems than APA.
Chemisorption Characteristics of 2,4-Dichlorophenol in Aqueous Solution onto Different Adsorbents
Authors: Zhenghao Fei , Mingfang Xia , Lin Wu , Jinlong Chen , Yunlan Gu , Aimin Li , Quanxing Zhang
Published: July 2005

The adsorption properties towards 2,4-dichlorophenol of several adsorption resins, viz. ZH-01, ZH-02 and ZH-03 respectively modified with different functional groups, and of granular activated carbon (GAC) have been compared experimentally with those of Amberlite XAD-4. This paper focuses on the static equilibrium adsorption behaviours and the confirmation of chemisorption characteristics. An equation relating the amount chemisorbed and the assumed chemisorption equilibrium concentration of adsorbate in the aqueous solution was established. This shows that the data may be fitted perfectly by the Langmuir equation. The adsorption capacities measured at different temperatures and the static desorption efficiency reveal that the adsorption of 2,4-dichlorophenol from water onto ZH-01, ZH-02, ZH-03 or GAC occurs via a simultaneous process involving physical adsorption and chemical reaction.
Use of Carbon Fibre Composite Molecular Sieves for Air Separation
Authors: Burchell Timothy D. , Omatete Omats O. , Gallego Nidia C. , Baker Frederick S.
Published: July 2005

The adsorption of oxygen, nitrogen and carbon dioxide onto a carbon fibre composite was investigated using static and dynamic techniques. Molecular-sieving effects in the composite were highlighted by the adsorption of carbon dioxide, a more sensitive probe molecule for the presence of micro-porosity in adsorbents. The kinetic studies revealed that oxygen was more rapidly adsorbed on the composite than nitrogen and with a higher uptake under equilibrium conditions. Preliminary experiments indicated that the carbon fibre composite was capable of separating oxygen and nitrogen from air on the basis of the different diffusion rates of the two molecules in the micropore network of the composite. It is proposed that the relatively high electrical conductivity of the carbon fibre composite material could be exploited for air separation by facilitating the production of O2 and N2 through electrical swing adsorption rather than the depressurization of adsorber beds.
Effect of Some Acrylate—Poly(Ethylene Glycol) Copolymers as Superplasticizers on the Mechanical and Surface Properties of Portland Cement Pastes
Authors: Abo-El-Enein S.A. , Hanafi S. , El-Hosiny F.I. , El-Mosallamy El-Said H.M. , Amin M.S.
Published: July 2005

Ordinary Portland cement (OPC) pastes with added superplasticizer were made using water/cement weight ratios of standard consistency. Three types of superplasticizer based on acrylate—poly(ethylene glycol) copolymers were used. The pastes were hydrated for various time lengths and the mechanical characteristics of the hardened cement pastes were studied and related to their pore structures. It was found that the addition of the superplasticizers to OPC improved the mechanical properties of the hardened pastes for all hydration lengths. The addition of such superplasticizers to OPC resulted in a decrease in the specific surface areas and total pore volumes of the hardened superplasticized cement pastes relative to the corresponding hardened neat cement pastes.
Photovoltaic-Wind Hybrid Autonomous Generation Systems in Mongolia
Authors: Dei Tsutomu , Ushiyama Izumi
Published: July 2005

Two hybrid stand-alone (autonomous) power systems, each with wind and PV generation, were studied as installed at health clinics in semi-desert and mountainous region in Mongolia. Meteorological and system operation parameters, including power output and the consumption of the system, were generally monitored by sophisticated monitoring. However, where wind and solar site information was lacking, justifiable estimates were made. The results show that there is a seasonal complementary relationship between wind and solar irradiation in Tariat Sum. The users understood the necessity of Demand Side Management of isolated wind-PV generation system through technology transfer seminars and actually executed DSM at both sites.
Simulation Model of a Transient Fault Controller for an Active-Stall Wind Turbine
Authors: Jauch Clemens , Sørensen Poul , Jensen Birgitte Bak
Published: July 2005

This paper describes the simulation model of a controller that enables an active-stall wind turbine to ride through transient faults. The simulated wind turbine is connected to a simple model of a power system. Certain fault scenarios are specified and the turbine shall be able to sustain operation in case of such faults. The design of the controller is described and its performance assessed by simulations. The control strategies are explained and the behaviour of the turbine discussed.
Statistical Evaluation of Wind Energy at Inshas, Egypt
Authors: Essa Khaled S. M. , Embaby M.
Published: July 2005

The wind speed at Inshas, Egypt in 2003 is considered as a case study. A statistical analysis gave the annual average wind speed as 3.80 m/s, in the range of 3.0 to 5.0 m/s for 89% of the time. Comparison among Weibull, Rayleigh, and actual data distributions of wind speed and wind power indicates that the Weibull distribution is the better fit. The mean monthly wind speed had its maximum in December and its minimum in February. The maximum wind energy potential was 63.6 W/m2 in December and, the annual mean value was 34.4 W/m2.
Study of Atmospheric Boundary Layer Flows over a Coastal Cliff
Authors: Gasset Nicolas , Poitras Gérard J. , Gagnon Yves , Brothers Carl
Published: July 2005

The extent to which a wind energy site is affected by a coastal cliff is presented by studying numerically a neutral Atmospheric Boundary Layer (ABL) flow using an RNG k-ε model and different geometries. Initially, the classical flow over a forward-facing step is modelled, followed by the modelling of a neutral ABL over a rough plane in two and three dimensions with various types of ground conditions. Finally, the two and three-dimensional flows over a forward-facing step, representing a coastal cliff, in a neutral ABL were modelled and applied to the Atlantic Wind Test Site (AWTS), site composed of a wind turbine testing facility and a 13 MW wind farm, in the province of Prince Edward Island, Canada. After assessing that the model can predict classical flows and ABL with relatively good accuracy and robustness, the results show that the extent of the effect of a coastal cliff on the flow above the AWTS is limited to a distance of 5h downstream of the (height h = 10 m) cliff. Based on the sitting of the existing wind power infrastructure, it appears that the coastal cliff does not influence the power capacity of the site.
Innovative Use of Profiled Steel Plates for Seismic Structural Performance
Authors: Fukumoto Y. , Takaku T. , Aoki T. , Susantha K. A. S.
Published: July 2005

This paper presents the innovative use of hot-rolled thickness-tapered mill products, longitudinally profiled (LP) plates, for the seismic performance of bridge bents of single and portal framed piers. The study involves the inelastic cyclic testing and numerical analysis of tested beam-columns and portal frames in order to evaluate the effects of tapering ratios of LP plates, penetration of yielding, and number of locally buckled panels on their structural ductility. A structural design method is proposed for the portal frames having LP panels under cyclic loadings.
BS449 to EC3 via BS5950: The Process, the Pitfalls and the Preparations
Authors: Nethercot David A.
Published: July 2005

For more than 35 years the author has been directly involved with the preparation of Structural Steel Design Codes – both in the UK and, more widely, in the EU. This activity has also extended to include direct association with Code developments in several other countries around the world e.g. South Africa, Hong Kong etc. plus observation of the process in many places. Utilising the UK position as the timeline, this paper presents a largely personal view of developments over the past 100 years, beginning in the pre-code era and culminating in today's age of international cooperation.
Recent Development and Innovation in Tubular Structures
Authors: Choo Y. S.
Published: July 2005

This paper highlights some of the research results achieved by the author and his teammates on tubular structures and thick-walled circular hollow section (CHS) connections. Excellent research and developmental work on thin-walled CHS connections has been conducted by a number of world renowned experts. However, there is little available information on thick-walled CHS connections, which are joints with chord outer radius-to-wall thickness ratio γ ≤ 10. This paper first presents the plastic load approach for strength definition of tubular joints and shows that current design recommendations may be un-conservative for thick-walled joints with equal diameter brace and chord members with γ ≤ 3.5. The behaviour of CHS K-joints, including the chord stress effect, is then summarized. The results from a detailed study on an innovative and effective external reinforcement scheme for CHS joints are presented. The paper also highlights the results obtained for the strength of fabricated pipe trunnions using the through brace scheme and novel implementation for plated structures which resulted in cost effective designs for heavy lift installation of structures.
Recent Developments in Composite Construction in the USA
Authors: Leon Roberto T.
Published: July 2005

This paper presents an overview of the proposed changes in composite design provisions for the upcoming American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) 2005 Specification. The main change insofar as member design is concerned relates to how composite column design is handled. The new provisions will provide a more smooth transition between design of composite and reinforced concrete columns and a more rational, mechanistically-based design procedure. Insofar as member detailing is concerned, the main change is in the strength values for shear studs, which have been considerably lowered under some circumstances. The paper also presents some ongoing developments in composite floor and lateral load resisting systems, and concludes with a short description of an unusual composite truss.
Structural Performance of Cold-Formed Steel Structures with Bolted Connections
Authors: Chung K. F.
Published: July 2005

This paper presents a number of experimental and theoretical investigations into the structural behaviour of cold-formed steel structures with bolted connections. Firstly, the basic deformation characteristics of bolted fastenings between cold-formed steel strips in lap shear tests is described, and advanced finite element modelling with solid elements as well as contact elements is carried out for comparison. Secondly, the structural behaviour of lapped Z sections with bolted moment connections is reported, and both analytical and numerical predictions on strength and stiffness of lapped Z sections are presented. Finally, the structural performance of double span lapped Z purlins is investigated numerically where the effects of lapped Z sections over internal supports on the internal force distributions along the purlin members are examined. The description is intended to provide both analysis and design methods as well as understandings to structural engineers, enabling them to design and build cold-formed steel structures rationally with improved structural performance.
Fire Engineering Design of Steel Structures
Authors: Bailey C. G.
Published: July 2005

Owing to its high thermal conductivity exposed structural steel will increase in temperature very quickly during a fire losing strength and stiffness. Designers must ensure that steel-framed buildings maintain sufficient stability, for a reasonable period of time, should a fire occur. A number of design approaches are available, of varying complexity, to ensure adequate fire safety. This paper explains the available design methods, including recent innovative approaches, ranging from the simple prescriptive approach of ‘blindly’ covering all exposed areas of steel with fire protection to carrying out a performance-based approach where the likely fire severity, heat transfer and structural response are considered. The advantages and disadvantages are summarised, for each of the design methods described, allowing the optimum solution for individual projects to be determined.
Optimizing the number of steps in learning tasks for complex skills
Authors: Nadolski Rob J. , Kirschner Paul A. , Van Merriënboer Jeroen J. G.
Published: July 2005

Background. Carrying out whole tasks is often too difficult for novice learners attempting to acquire complex skills. The common solution is to split up the tasks into a number of smaller steps. The number of steps must be optimized for efficient and effective learning.

Aim. The aim of the study is to investigate the relation between the number of steps provided to learners and the quality of their learning of complex skills. It is hypothesized that students receiving an optimized number of steps will learn better than those receiving either the whole task in only one step or those receiving a large number of steps.

Sample. Participants were 35 sophomore law students studying at Dutch universities, mean age = 22.8 years (SD=3.5), 63% were female.

Method.  Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 computer‐delivered versions of a multimedia programme on how to prepare and carry out a law plea. The versions differed only in the number of learning steps provided. Videotaped plea‐performance results were determined, various related learning measures were acquired and all computer actions were logged and analyzed.

Results. Participants exposed to an intermediate (i.e. optimized) number of steps outperformed all others on the compulsory learning task. No differences in performance on a transfer task were found. A high number of steps proved to be less efficient for carrying out the learning task.

Conclusions. An intermediate number of steps is the most effective, proving that the number of steps can be optimized for improving learning.