bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A New Approach to the Complexity of General Systems via Entropy and Quantum Entropy of Non‐probabilistic Data
Authors: Jumarie Guy
Published: February 2008

The complexity of a general system is identified with its temperature and, analogously with Boltzmann's probability density in thermodynamics, this temperature is related to the informational entropy of the system. The concept of informational entropy of deterministic functions provides a straightforward modelling of Brillouin's negentropy (negative entropy), therefore a system can be characterized by its complexity and its dual complexity. States composition laws for complexities expressed in terms of Shannonian entropy with or without probability, and then the approach is extended to quantum entropy of non‐probabilistic data. Outlines some suggestions for future investigation.
The Unfolded Shape of the Brain
Authors: James Brennig
Published: February 2008

Examines the problems of determining the unfolded shape of the entire human cerebral cortex. Discusses the isometric and isogonal cortex and measurement methods. Maintains that better methods of measurement and calculation should yield a more accurate model but one which is unlikely to be significantly different from that presented in the article.
Identification of Multiple‐input Transfer‐function Noise Models: A Regression Approach — Part I: Theory
Authors: Östermark Ralf , Höglund Rune
Published: February 2008

Evaluates an identification strategy, based on ridge regression, for mutliple‐input models. The corresponding computer algorithm was implemented on a VAX–8800 computer at the Computing Centre at A˚bo Akademi. The evaluation of the ridge‐regression method was carried out by simulations of different transfer‐function noise model structures. The models are essentially the same as those of Edlund, but a far greater number of replications, 1,000, is used in each of the 21 cases tested. Furthermore, uses actually identified and estimated ARIMA models of the residuals in the identification procedure of impulse response weights, unlike Edlund, who used only theoretical noise models in filtering the input and output series. A short discussion of the underlying theory is presented in Part I. The procedures and results of the empirical testing will be published in Part II inKybernetes, Vol. 22 No. 7, 1993.
Fuzzy Symmetric Functions with Don't‐care Conditions and Applications
Authors: Lee Edward T.
Published: February 2008

Defines and investigates fuzzy symmetric functions with don't‐care conditions and most‐unsymmetric functions. Represents and illustrates by examples algorithms for finding the grade of membership function and the number of most unsymmetric functions. Also presents applications to function representation, data reduction and error correction. The results may have useful applications to fuzzy logics, finding most‐unsymmetric images, fuzzy neural networks and related areas.
On Continuous AI and Meta‐knowledge
Authors: Chen Z.
Published: February 2008

Points out how the philosophy of cybernetics may be helpful for the future of artificial intelligence (AI). Starts with the notion of continuous AI and discusses its relationship with meta‐knowledge (namely, knowledge about knowledge). The conjecture is that meta‐knowledge can capture a kind of continuity. Also summarizes the use of meta‐knowledge in knowledge‐based systems.
Informational Observation Theory: An Extension to Two Discrete Sets of Events
Authors: Padet Colette
Published: February 2008

Gives an analysis of the consequences of the limitations inherent in observation processes PA and PB on the joint, marginal and conditional entropies of two discrete sets of events A and B, observed by means of PA and PB. Up to now, unlike the continuous case studied in a previous article, the Shannon theory seemed to apply without any problems. Demonstrates that this is not true in some particular situations. Some properties of dissymmetry, absent from the Shannonian model, appear.
Some Results Related to the Concepts of Products
Authors: Lin Yi
Published: February 2008

Presents results concerning products, Cartesian products and direct products of general systems. The results are divided into three categories, according to input‐output property, connectedness, and embeddability. Discusses the application of products to building larger, and more useful, structures, giving examples and outstanding problems.
Generation of Diagnostic Rules via Inductive Machine Learning
Authors: Cios Krzysztof J. , Liu Ning , Goodenday Lucy S.
Published: February 2008

A learning algorithm called CLILP2 (Cover Learning Using Integer Linear Programming) is applied to medical data to generate rules to recognize patients with coronary artery disease. The algorithm partitions a data set into subsets using features which best describe and distinguish a particular subset from all other subsets. These features are used to form the rules which can be used as the knowledge base of a diagnostic expert system. Results from the application of the algorithm to coronary artery stenosis data are compared with the results obtained from the existing expert system.
Communications
Authors: Brennig James D.
Published: February 2008

The brain can more accurately be described as two organs than one.
Embodiments of Beer's Educational Model
Authors: Adams Denis , Ahmad Albakri , Haynes Doug , Sheehan Jim
Published: February 2008

Begins by summarizing Stafford Beer's minimal model proposed in his report on the organization of Manchester Business School in 1970, and the conclusions made by Sir Douglas Hague, when Beer's model was used as a framework to examine current business school practices and a vision for the twenty‐first century. To facilitate learning in a “reality” which closely resembled situations in A‐space, a business simulator course was designed and its cybernetics is explained to show how Beer's ideas were actually used to teach Beer's ideas. Also delineates the experiences of the students' practical use of Beer's VSM. Continuing the theme to interplay teaching, research and consultancy, describes the concept, model and the implementation of Janus — The Centre for Systems Thinking and Organizational Transformation; a centre for those who wish to study, develop, apply and promote Stafford Beer's ideas and works.
About Mappings
Authors: Vallée Robert
Published: February 2008

Considers Stafford Beer's idea of the mapping of a set of events. Shows how it can be compared with use of observation and pragmatical operators in the context of dynamical systems theory.
System Theory and Deepened Set Theory
Authors: Musès C.
Published: February 2008

Incorporates a unified basis for both set and system theory, and also makes a clear case for topology as the science which both underlies and includes logic. Indeed, careful topological analysis reveals the problems besetting the so‐called “law of the excluded middle”. Basically, the middle is there, whether we try to ostracize it or not. Interestingly, makes clear that Buddhist logicians almost two millennia before L. Brouwer's critique of formalistic proofs, had discovered the non‐exclusion of the middle term. Also discusses the related and neglected matter of the tangency between two sets, as distinct from their intersection or disjunction in a Boolean context. These renovated foundations make for new cybernetics and system theory as well.
About Some Unusual Mental States
Authors: Betta Jan
Published: February 2008

Introduced by John H. Clark, the Map of Mental States is a geometrical model of a human mental life. In spite of its simplicity, it takes into account the most essential variables characterizing the mind. Deals with three important types of mental life which can be represented on the Map: mystical states, mental illnesses and drug states. The exact numerical positions of the states have been established on the Map, for the most known mystical path, for some mental illnesses and for two typical drugs. Rectilinear and curvilinear distances between corresponding states have been calculated and perspectives of such a study have been shown.
Communications
Authors: Madan S.
Published: February 2008

Deals with the Energy‐Economy‐Development network with a possible break‐up of the total system into two parts. The first part is confined to the Energy‐Economy System and known as the Integration part, while the second part is related to the Economy‐Development System known as the Effectiveness part of the total system. Whereas the knowledge integration (an information box), along with planning machinery is the knowledge base (a shell) of the overall system. The objective is to emphasize through a network approach that the knowledge base comprising knowledge integration and planning machinery can enhance the effectiveness of the total system via plan (programme) execution, and thereby the development objectives can be achieved at higher level.
Real and Artificial Neural Nets
Authors: Andrew Alex M.
Published: February 2008

Reviews some of the good reasons for looking to real neural nets for guidance on ways of implementing effective parallel computation. Discusses existing artificial neural nets with particular attention to the extent to which they model real neural activity. Indicates some serious mismatches, but shows that there are also important correspondences. The successful applications are to image processing, pattern classification and automatic optimization, in various guises. Reviews important issues raised by extension to the symbolic problem solving of “intellectual” thought, the prime concern of classical AI. These illustrate the importance of recursion, and of a degree of continuity associated with any evolutionary process.
Expert Systems and Fuzzy Systems: A New Approach via Possibility‐Probability Conversion
Authors: Jumarie Guy
Published: February 2008

In the framework of his theory of relative information, derives formulae to convert probability into possibility and conversely, and shows how they can be utilized to reconsider many questions related to fuzzy sets and approximate reasoning on a meaningful information theoretic standpoint. The key of this approach is that the membership of a fuzzy set is now thought of as equivalent to the pair (probability, fuzziness coefficient). Therefore a sound new concept of informational membership entropy, which is fully consistent with Shannon theory, is evolved. In this new paradigm, the fuzzy object is simultaneously defined by the set itself and its complement. Thus obtains a new modelling for the union and the intersection of fuzzy sets, and new approaches to quantitatively modelling “If A then B”.
Communications
Authors: Plenert Gerhard , Kaiser Richard
Published: February 2008

Holds the belief that the development of artificial intelligence (AI) systems requires the growth of the analysis processes, from electronic data processing (EDP) to management information systems (MIS) and through expert systems (ES). Discusses the background to AI developments, and the current trends in the different development patterns. Examines the steps necessary to build an effective AI system.
Computer Algorithms: A Simultaneous Search for Several Solutions to Non‐linear Systems
Authors: Zielinski Gerard
Published: February 2008

Presents a new method for systems solving with a solution proposal and flowcharts to enable programs to be developed. Considers the computational complexity and the details of the algorithms proposed together with the examples of systems solutions. Discusses statistical tests and a final validation of the proposed method.
Some Observations on Cybernetics
Authors: Vukasin Masnikoša , Momčilo Ušćumlić
Published: February 2008

In this communication the interpretation of cybernetics in relation to Wiener's definition is discussed. Two problems are considered: the first is connected with the structure, and the second concerns its autonomous choice of the goal.
Introducing Quality Assurance — An Exercise in Audacity
Authors: Vuori Hannu
Published: February 2008

Introducing quality assurance programmes means change. The author examines what may have to change and suggests a change strategy based on the idea of an equation. He points out how the World Health Organisation is supportive of Quality Assurance.
Health Care Performance and Accountability
Authors: Dummer J.
Published: February 2008

The need and importance of setting performance standards is described; together with the problem of many varied initiatives being taken in an uncoordinated fashion. The role of Regional Health Authority in formulating an integrated strategy is proposed.
Developing Nursing: The Contribution to Quality
Authors: Wright Stephen G.
Published: February 2008

The part played by quality assurance and the setting of standards in enhancing the motivation of nurses is described. The involvement of nurses themselves in developing “professional practice” has played a key role in reducing sickness, absence and turnover rates.
Blood Transfusion Policy in Dutch Hospitals
Authors: van Everdingen J.J.E. , Klazinga N.S. , Casparie A.F.
Published: February 2008

Three years after a consensus development conference on blood transfusion policy in the Netherlands, its effect on the quality of care was evaluated. In 16 out of 22 bloodbanks and 66 per cent of the hospitals the consensus text had been discussed and used as a basis for the formulation or modification of guidelines. In 17 (nine per cent) hospitals a formal quality assurance study had been performed: In 11 change was found to be necessary; a re‐evaluation, performed in seven, showed improvement of transformation policy in five. In all studies the criteria used were in agreement with the statements of the consensus text.
Health Care Quality Assurance Terminology
Authors: Healy Seamus
Published: February 2008

The theory and practice of Quality Assurance in Health is drawn from and involves many disciplines and professions. The dangers of imprecisions in the use of terms can lead to confusion. The glossary prepared by the author aims to provide a firm foundation of definition, thereby avoiding squabbles over semantics.
Medical Quality Assurance: Research in Brighton Health Authority
Authors: Stevens Geoff , Wickings Iden , Bennett Jill
Published: February 2008

Steps take in Brighton Health District, with the help of CASPE Research (Clinical, Accountability, Service Planning and Evaluation), to build and maintain an approach to Quality Assurance (QA) are described. The system is based on co‐ordination of — and assistance to — voluntary peer review by clinicians and other professionals. The joint work has two aspects: first, implementation of microcomputer‐assisted trials of QA in a small number of clinical departments and professional/ non‐medical departments which aim to provide a productive environment for development of new indicators of the quality of care, and systems for their use, that are practical and economic for local use in the NHS. Second, the indicators are provisionally evaluated, and, where successful, related to service planning and resource management in the district. Indicators that are successful in Brighton will also be tested in other districts where CASPE is working.
Tough Questions Senior Managers in Health Care Should be Asking about Quality
Authors: Labovitz George H. , Sang Chang Yu , Donnachie Ian , Berry Midi
Published: February 2008

The role of top management and its responsibility for quality is addressed by asking five key questions covering measurement, cost, objectives, recognition and support of quality initiatives and communications.
The Application of Total Quality Control to a Hospital Setting
Authors: Jessome Peggy
Published: February 2008

Some of the problems associated with present quality assurance programmes in Canada are discussed, the principles, techniques and supporting factors involved in total quality control examined, and a model proposed for adapting this approach to meet the needs of health care institutions. A selected survey of Japanese quality practices is also provided.
Who Cares for the Customer?
Authors: Abrahams Michael
Published: February 2008

A critical eye is cast over some key services provided in a London teaching hospital while the author was undertaking a management development project. The absence of many standards and the provision of some services which could be harmful are noted. The approach of National Health Service management is contrasted with that of the author's previous employer, Marks and Spencer, and some recommendations for action are proposed.
A Quality Management System for an Out‐patient Clinic and Service Departments
Authors: Rooney E.M. , Wilson R.S.E.
Published: February 2008

The validity of an approach based on a quality system specification developed from BS5750 is considered, with reference to patient care activity in an out‐patient clinic at a general hospital. The quality systems specification is presented and the application of this system to the clinic and service departments is demonstrated.
Action Learning for Quality Assurance — A Diary
Authors: Griffiths Wynn
Published: February 2008

The progress and processes used in introducing quality assurance in a UK health authority are described. The approach taken for the implementation is based on action learning.
The Quality of Community Nursing Services:
Authors: Gott Marjorie , Packham Hester
Published: February 2008

Describes a study of three community nursing services provided by North Staffordshire Health Authority, which was carried out during the summer of 1991. Both the type and focus of quality measurement reported here are fairly unique. While the development of quality measures is yet at an early stage, most measures to date are quantitative. These can inform about volume of use of a service, but not its quality. The measures designed for this study were qualitative. These, when combined with quantitative data (statistics, routinely collected), yield much richer and more complete information as a basis for decision making in service planning. Quality data on the use of community services are also under‐represented in the quality literature — most studies to date have used hospital patient services as their source for data collection. Goes some way towards redressing the imbalance.
Attitude and commitment
Authors: COWGILL SAMUEL
Published: February 2008

How many times have we returned goods due to shoddy workmanship, bitterly complaining at the time lost and expense taken, not to mention the frustration and disappointment? How often do we avoid shops due to an assistant's off‐hand manner?
Relationships with suppliers
Authors: CARSON JOHN
Published: February 2008

Most professional buyers are expert at managing their key suppliers, often utilising thorough vendor assessments and closely monitoring delivery and product quality. Managing service providers is generally not given the same degree of attention, despite the fact that, like everyone else, they must provide value for money.
Not just a job
Authors: FOSTER KAY
Published: February 2008

In a service business, quality is a function of the customer's perception of the service delivery. To help British Airways improve its service quality, the company is concentrating its training effort on the front‐line staff — the Cabin Crew — to the mutal benefit of both staff and customers.
Club Med goes for quality
Authors: KOCHAN ANNA
Published: February 2008

At the heart of Club Med's quality policy is the integration of customers and employees . This not only avoids the classic guest/staff relationship, but helps employees to pin‐point potential customer complaints and to evolve future quality standards.
The goal for the future
Authors: FERGUSON IAN
Published: February 2008

TQM has empowered individuals to expand their horizons of personal quality and collective responsibility. This was highlighted at a recent conference held in Boston, USA.
Commercial surveys — a comprehensive approach
Authors: Headlam Robert
Published: February 2008

It would perhaps be an exaggeration to suggest that carrying out a survey of commercial premises requires a completely different expertise to that for residential property, but nevertheless it must be recognised that a very specialised approach is often necessary to provide the type of report and appraisal that a commercial client invariably wants — even if he is unaware of his requirements.
Care in wording the surveyor's report
Authors: Holland Bernard
Published: February 2008

It is not my intention to write upon the complexities of the law of professional negligence but to use this article to start the reader thinking; I propose to do this from the viewpoint of a practical Building Surveyor and to concentrate particularly on one aspect of a surveyor's work, namely. ‘Structural Surveys’.
Inspecting insulation in situ
Authors: Carroll S.J.
Published: February 2008

Whilst the overall need to conserve energy is generally accepted, the importance of undertaking a detailed survey before the start of any insulation work in existing buildings is seldom recognised.
Assessing fire damaged structures
Authors: Tucker D.M. , Read R.E.H.
Published: February 2008

Buildings, or portions of buildings, look a sorry sight after a fire: some may have collapsed and be only twisted ruins, others may have mainly suffered damage from smoke. Between these extremes there is a wide range of degree of damage. This paper provides some guidance and references on the effects of fire on building materials and structural components so that decisions as to repairability are not based wholly on superficial appearances.
Surveying buildings in London's docklands
Authors: Faulkner A.J.
Published: February 2008

The area loosely described as London's Docklands contains a great variety of building types which are, in general, poorly maintained. A large proportion of the commercial and industrial structures are over 50 years old and many stand empty today, as silent monuments of an age of thriving free trade with the nations of the world. Exotic names of far away places — Havana, Jamaica, Haiti, Antigua, Barbados — painted on the lintels of door openings are all that remains to tell their story.
Video — its uses and limitations
Authors: Angel Gregory
Published: February 2008

Video and its associated technology is becoming increasingly prominent in every aspect of commercial and domestic life. The proliferation of hardware is almost as bewildering as the number of applications that the media seeks to serve. Indeed, providing one has the imagination or can conceive of any communication requirement or visual documentary record, it is possible that video can provide a quicker and more economical and efficient solution than other established methods of communication. It is understandable, therefore, that the surveying profession should look towards this technology as a beneficial means of improving the communication of essential information within their profession.
Negligence in structural surveys
Authors: Wilde R.L.
Published: February 2008

I read Bernard Holland's article in the first issue (see Structural Survey Vol 1 No 1 page 14) with great interest. Matters relating to claims of professional negligence are of great concern to all people in professional practice, and especially to those of us who engage in making structural surveys of buildings.
RICS House Buyers Report and Valuation
Authors: Edwards Tony
Published: February 2008

It is just a year ago that the RICS launched the House Buyers Report and Valuation scheme as a genuine attempt and in the sincere hope that it would provide for the lay member of the public contemplating the purchase of a house, the answers to all those essential questions about which the house purchaser is particularly concerned, while at the same time providing the assurances we, as Chartered Surveyors, believe the house buyer needs in order to make that important decision as to whether or not to proceed with the purchase.
Dampness in buildings
Authors: Keith G.
Published: February 2008

Dampness in buildings is unsightly, it can be damaging to the health of the occupants and, if left unattended, it can lead to structural deterioration.
Fibre optic probe surveys
Authors: Weeks Dennis , Mack Simon
Published: February 2008

There has always been a need for the opportunity to extend the chartered building surveyor's inspection into those areas of a building structure which are concealed or inaccessible. In recent years, the rapid development of fibre optic probes has resulted in a most interesting application of these instruments to the field of building surveying. This development means that a small but important part of the structure, previously impossible to examine beyond a surface inspection, is within the surveyor's capability to observe, once equipped with the latest surveying devices.
In situ floor finishes –
Authors: Hardwick JI
Published: February 2008

There are a great number of in situ floor finishes available today, including the traditional self‐finished concrete, granolithic and sand cement screeds as well as a bewildering array of special proprietary floor finishes. These include epoxy and polyester resin mortars, and bitumen and polymer emulsion cementitious floor toppings. This article looks at the most common types of floor finish, describes their uses and looks at some of the common faults which arise both through poor materials and workmanship, and heavy usage.
Tree root damage to low rise buildings
Authors: Hill W.F.
Published: February 2008

The abnormally long, dry summers of 1975 and 1976 which resulted in a considerable amount of damage to low rise buildings founded in shrinkable clay subsoils, were largely responsible for highlighting the increased risks of building low rise buildings, such as one‐ and two‐storey housing, on shrinkable clay sites, particularly where trees were present or were planned.
Basic facts about concrete III — remedies
Authors: Williams G.T.
Published: February 2008

A building might require repair after suffering structural damage from accident, design error, overloading, relative settlement or attack from the elements to such an extent that it becomes unserviceable or even unsafe and a hazard to those around it. Some of the detailed techniques of repair are discussed below but which, if any, are to be adopted would not be decided until a thorough investigation had been made to discover and, it is hoped, eliminate, the reasons for the damage. This might show a need for additional structural members or that existing members would require enlarging or merely that the building had to be made to conform more exactly to the original design.
Residential surveys of Victorian terraced brick houses
Authors: Hollis Malcolm
Published: February 2008

For the purpose of this article I want to look at one of the house types most common in all the main cities and large towns of this country, the Victorian terraced property, usually on two floors, with a pitched roof falling from the middle to the front and rear and often with a back extension on two floors stretching out into the garden.
Defects in Airey Houses
Authors: McArthur H.
Published: February 2008

About 26,000 Airey Houses were erected during the post war years (1946–55) as part of the house building programme of that period. The Airey House is essentially a prefabricated concrete structure which was erected on site to form a box. This box was erected upon a concrete raft which acted as the foundation and floor of the dwelling. The basic box was formed from several framed ‘goal posts’ to which thin concrete cladding panels were fastened to the upright columns by copper wire. The vertical loading from the first floor and roof is taken on the vertical columns but may also be shared with the concrete cladding panels (see Figure 1).
The Optic Probe in Use
Authors: Porter R.
Published: February 2008

An article by Dennis Weeks in a recent issue of Structural Survey highlighted the need for and use of an optic probe to inspect hidden parts of the building fabric.
How the NHBC Works
Authors: Cooper A.
Published: February 2008

A recent survey shows that most home buyers place high priority on the NHBC ten‐year warranty, even though the cover is restricted to major structural defects after two years. They are right to do so because the NHBC currently pays out over £6.5m a year in compensation to house buyers whose builder is bankrupt, or where major structural defects have occurred.
Paints and Surface Coatings
Authors: Whiteley P.
Published: February 2008

Advancing technology brings a continual flow of new materials to the building industry, not least in the field of paints and other types of surface coatings. While some of these have not fulfilled the glowing claims made for them and have vanished from the scene, most have shown a balance of advantages and have displaced older traditional products. Who would now exchange emulsion paints for distempers? Yet there often seem to be an underlying resistance and a belief that modern paints are not as durable as older ones, or as ‘good’ in some undefined way.
Residential surveys of Victorian mansion block flats
Authors: Hollis Malcolm
Published: February 2008

The concept of the mansion flat appears to have been developed by the Victorians. Large, often rambling, flats were arranged in a building designed to have an imposing and balanced appearance that frequently resembled a country mansion. The front of the building was usually fairly ornate with an elaborate entrance porch but the rear and internal courts had a more utilitarian aspect.
RICS Scale of fees
Authors: Cross Hugh
Published: February 2008

‘RICS Abandons Fee Scales’. This brief headline, together with a few short paragraphs, in The Times and the Daily Telegraph in March last year, announced to the public, and indeed to the majority of the profession, that after nearly a decade of resisting government pressure, the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors had decided to abandon published scales of charges. What the papers failed to announce was that building surveying and quantity surveying scales were to be retained.
Trussed rafter roofs — Load distribution and lateral stability
Authors: Mayo A.P.
Published: February 2008

This paper (originally published as IS 24/78) summarises the load sharing capabilities of the components of a laboratory test roof constructed with fink trussed rafters. The lateral stability of the roof with different diagonal bracing systems in the plane of the rafters was assessed.
Basic facts about brickwork 1 — Structural brickwork
Authors: Morton John
Published: February 2008

Architects and engineers are turning to structural masonry more and more today to provide the solutions for their building needs. Over the past ten years or so a growing awareness of the use of masonry and a growing interest in designing in brickwork has been a discernable trend in the construction world. This article discusses structural masonry from three points of view. Firstly, it looks at the use of structural brickwork in Britain today — while this is predominantly unreinforced, reinforced brickwork is also discussed. Secondly, the article looks at some areas of design which, considered at the design stage, may avoid possible problems in the future. Finally, workmanship factors — which affect the structural performance of the completed building — are discussed.
Cladding 2 – Remedying defects
Authors: Wilson M.
Published: February 2008

What constitutes a failure? A failure is not necessarily a total collapse causing damage or loss of life — these are extreme cases. And to analyse failures, it is first necessary to determine the function which the cladding of a building serves.
Basic facts about brickwork 2 – Successful performance of modern brickwork
Authors: Knight T.L.
Published: February 2008

The world abounds with numerous examples of fault‐free brickwork which have endured for centuries with little maintenance. In this country, bricks are an indigenous product and the use of brickwork is well understood, being a basically simple and economic method of building without sophisticated techniques.
Surveying public health engineering services
Authors: Brooks R.A.
Published: February 2008

Public Health Engineering Services can be briefly defined as providing:
The surveyor in conservation
Authors: Catt Richard
Published: February 2008

The number of old buildings and sites protected by legislation is rapidly increasing due to the accelerated listing procedure and the effects of the 1979 Ancient Monuments Act — laws brought about to reflect the widening public concern about historic fabric, perhaps as the result of the increasing strength of the conservation movement; public disillusion with modern architecture; and insecurity about the future brought about by the current recession. Thus, in a time when even modern buildings are being listed and Second World War defences being scheduled, the surveyor is increasingly likely to be confronted with instructions to repair, restore, convert, extend or improve ancient buildings. This short series of articles attempts to summarise a few of the problems likely to be encountered with their solution, without suggesting that the surveyor should be deterred from exercising his or her individual skills and judgment in dealing with buildings whose very nature demands a singular approach. The first article deals with the philosophy of conservation and the laws that support it, historical research and the various alternative approaches that may be made to solve practical problems; the second will cover the sources of materials — including stone, bricks, green oak, lime and paint — used in conservation works; and the last the techniques of surveying and repairing churches. Any study of conservation is rewarding — the realisation that the earlier a medieval building, the finer its detail; the discovery that modern craftsmen display great skill when properly encouraged; and the surprising longevity of traditional building materials, albeit subjected to centuries of neglect — these provide examples which will repay the surveyor's time and interest.
The survey and inspection of modern timber framed property
Authors: Hollis Malcolm
Published: February 2008

The timber frame is not a new form of building construction. Until the middle of the 18th century timber was the basic structural material used in this country. The method was gradually superseded by the use of brick and stone. This was caused by a decline in the availability of home grown timber and the improved social status of owning a brick built property. At the present time it is anticipated that half of the annual production of houses will be of timber frame by the end of next year.
D‐I‐Y and the duty of care
Authors: Ross Malcolm
Published: February 2008

The term ‘do‐it‐yourself’ means different things to different people — ranging from putting a new fuse in an electrical plug to building one's own house brick by brick. The purpose of this article is to examine the extent to which the DIY enthusiast is under any legal obligations and liabilities, and to whom these are owed. Several major legal categories emerge, particularly in terms of the Occupiers Liability Act 1957, common law negligence and nuisance. The DIY Defendant's position as current occupier of his premises is also contrasted with his obligations to subsequent purchasers of it.
Private certification of building control
Authors: Pitt P.H.
Published: February 2008

Introduction The Housing and Building Control Bill had reached the House of Lords when the general election intervened. It was re‐introduced to the new Parliament almost unamended and it is now at Committee stage again. There are unlikely to be any major changes and it is expected to reach the Statute Book early in 1984.
Reinforced brickwork retaining walls
Authors: Curtin W.G.
Published: February 2008

Introduction The Victorian engineers built literally miles of mass brickwork retaining walls. Such walls relied on their dead weight to resist the overturning forces and tensile stresses caused by the retained earth, or other material. But the walls were of relatively massive thickness, under‐exploited brick‐work's compressive strength, and were structurally restricted by brickwork's low tensile strength. The advent of the more cost‐effective reinforced concrete walls saw their vitual eclipse. Reinforcing the brickwork could result in a come‐back.
London's underground capital
Authors: Hillman Ellis
Published: February 2008

Underground space is a valuable commodity — no less valuable because it is largely unseen. This space is especially valuable in towns and cities where land values are at a premium. The need for a study of these tracts below street level is becoming increasingly urgent, if only to assess the true value of this capital vested underground. Perhaps equally important to our consideration of it are the long term prospects for the vast service network buried beneath our cities.
The surveyor in conservation 3 – Surveying Churches
Authors: Catt Richard
Published: February 2008

Of the 17,000 churches and chapels in England nearly half survive from the Middle Ages and the duty of continuing the care that has preserved them for so long largely falls on the current generation of parishioners and their advisers — an increasingly onerous task as the numbers of communicants diminish and funds become accordingly scarce.
Corrosion
Authors: McArthur Hugh
Published: February 2008

In tomorrow's world there will be more attention paid to the conservation of materials and energy. Energy is often a significant input in the production of materials. A greater realisation of the degradation mechanisms (and particularly corrosion) must be achieved in that corrosion is ‘an insidious consumer of our stocks of raw materials, a squanderer of our productive capacity and a dissipator of the fruits of our labours’. In real terms it costs about 4 per cent of the GNP of the UK, USA, or Japan and this is wasted ‘labour’. Another way of looking at these figures is to remember that a third of all the steel produced in the UK in one year goes to back to rust within the year.
Stone renovation in buildings
Authors: Bailey T.A. , Ball MFB D.G.
Published: February 2008

Some historic observations With the exception of our prehistoric and primitive stone built ‘homes’ such as Chysauster and Cam Euny hut circles in Cornwall, the cromlechs, dolmens and stone circles at Avebury and Stonehenge, it was the Romans who introduced fine and sturdy stone construction into our country. The Anglo‐Saxons left many fragments of their crudely dressed stone towers and chancels of their churches, which have survived due to their robust construction. The timber construction of the Dark Ages gave way to stone again and to the gradual establishment of the craft of the stonemason.
The private certification of building control 2
Authors: Pitt P.H.
Published: February 2008

In the last article on private certification of building control we looked at Part II of the Housing & Building Control Bill — clauses 29 to 40, which dealt with Initial Notices, Plans Certificates, Final Certificates, the effects of the cancellation of an Initial Notice, Appeals, Register of Notices and Certificates, and Offences. Public Bodies were left to this article together with Certificates of Compliance, the approval of Approved Inspectors and Insurance Arrangements. (The Clause numbers below are as given in the June version of the Bill.)
Concrete disease — diagnosis and cure
Authors: Tasker J.S.
Published: February 2008

Reinforced concrete is a very durable material, often specified because of the expectations of a long maintenance‐free life. However, it is also an easily abused material. It derives its strength from chemical change and both its physical and its chemical form provide corrosion protection to the reinforcement. It is, therefore, highly sensitive to the contents of the mix and in particular to any additives or pollutants which might affect the chemical composition.
Deleterious materials — The surveyor's responsibility
Authors: March C.G. , Curwell S.R.
Published: February 2008

The Concise Oxford Dictionary defines deleterious as ‘being harmful to mind or body’ — a clear and precise definition particularly appropriate when applied as an adjective to describe some materials used in the construction of buildings.
Safety considerations when making building surveys
Authors: Kerr William F.
Published: February 2008

It is obvious that, in carrying out structural surveys of buildings, defective and damaged elements must be identified and appropriate comments made in any subsequent report. Strictly speaking, this may be regarded as one of the basic reasons for conducting such surveys and there can be no suggestion that there should be any change in this recognised form of practice.
Development of calculation methods for the design of structural fire protection
Authors: Law Margaret
Published: February 2008

In this country, as well as in most others, the level of structural fire protection is set by the regulatory authorities, in terms of a specified fire resistance period. The engineer must demonstrate that each element of structure would survive for the required period if it were subjected to the standard fire resistance test of BS476. This is normally demonstrated by using tabular data, such as the deemed‐to‐satisfy tables in the Building Regulations, or by obtaining a report of a test of a replica of the particular element.
Roof space surveying
Authors: Briffett C.
Published: February 2008

Perhaps one of the least attractive aspects of making a structural survey is the roof space inspection which can be a cold, dark, and dirty activity in which the surveyor may encounter a number of dangers and surprises. One danger to guard against is professional negligence and it is imperative that the inspection is not reduced to a quick look round from the trap door access or becomes an excuse to use one's inexperienced office assistant to do the dirty work.
Surveying electrical installations in buildings
Authors: Saulez K.J.
Published: February 2008

Any electrical installation which is designed correctly, installed to a good standard of workmanship and maintained regularly should give many years of trouble‐free service. This paper assumes that the first requirement has been met and sets out the inspection and test procedures which are considered necessary to ensure that the two latter requirements are also satisfied. It is, however, concerned only with installations not exceeding low voltage.
‘It ought not to be allowed’
Authors: Anstey John
Published: February 2008

Rest assured that if Mr Growser had suffered an appeal against an award under the Toytown Building Act he would certainly have uttered his familiar complaint. And I think he would have had good reason to do so, even though Ernest the Policeman and the Mayor would undoubtedly have expedited the matter. The trouble with appeals under the London Building Acts (Amendment) Act 1939, is that they rarely are expedited and that an appeal can vitiate the entire purpose of the Act.
Undertaking geotechnical investigations
Authors: Threadgold Leonard
Published: February 2008

Introduction The concept of a firm foundation to any stable structure, be it political, financial or physical, is one of the most commonly accepted metaphors in use today. Since every building has to be supported by the ground and to interact with it in a manner which is acceptable to the user, it is surprising that often so little attention is paid to the determination of the ground's characteristics.
Façade retention projects — 2
Authors: Goodchild S.L.
Published: February 2008

In the Spring 1984 edition of Structural Survey (Vol 3, No 1), W. F. Hill's paper on façade Retention Projects covered the initial research, detailed surveys and preliminary design assessments which are necessary when arriving at the preferred method of construction to be adopted for new buildings behind retained façades. This paper follows on from this, covering in detail the structural design and specification aspects, tender invitations and appraisals of the demolition and construction monitoring necessary to ensure façade stability on one particular project. This project, known as 20 Finsbury Circus, involves the construction of 8,250 sq. m of new air‐conditioned office accommodation and retail units behind the existing Edwardian stone façade of the group of buildings previously known as 1–5 Broad Street Place, on the northern side of Finsbury Circus in London. The new eight‐storey structure will provide for retail units at ground floor, with offices, storage and major plant installations at basement level and offices between the first and sixth floor level and a roof garden.
Indoor concrete floor refurbishment — A note
Authors: Jolly A.C.
Published: February 2008

Preliminary investigations and design criteria Prior to the specification of any floor materials, the following data should be known — the chemical resistance, the type and the desired finish (ie smooth or anti‐slip), the magnitude and nature of loading, the subsequent unit operating temperatures, cleaning techniques and the mode of construction.
Sewer rehabilitation – 1
Authors: Sargent T.S.R.
Published: February 2008

Introduction Sewer rehabilitation encompasses many different aspects of civil engineering. This single term defines everything from the detection of a lost sewer to its final reconnection to an existing property after the renovation of the sewer is complete. In its broadest definition, rehabilitation can be split into two sections — the inspection and the renovation of the sewer. In the first part of this paper, the extent of the problem, the survey techniques employed and the initial remedial work needed will be discussed.
New methods of treatment of dampness and timber infestation in buildings
Authors: Oliver A.C.
Published: February 2008

In the last 25 years, we have seen a considerable increase in the use of new and unconventional methods for the remedial treatment of building defects. Some of the materials and techniques used have been employed long enough for an assessment to be made of their efficacy based on field experience. Some have only been evaluated by accelerated laboratory methods and do not yet have the full support of service records. Other products are declining in importance as a result of a ‘lack of approval’ by the independent bodies that pronounce on these matters.
The maintenance of flat roofs on commercial buildings
Authors: Murray John W.
Published: February 2008

This paper was delivered by the author at a conference on ‘Building Defects in Commercial Property’, organised by Henry Stewart Conference Studies on 7th February, 1985.
The Structural Survey Interview
Authors: Povall Stuart
Published: February 2008

Structural Survey interviews Stuart Povall
Sewer rehabilitation — 2
Authors: Sargent T.S.R.
Published: February 2008

Introduction Sewer rehabilitation encompasses many different aspects of civil engineering. This single term defines all the activities involved, from detection of a lost sewer to reconnection to the existing property, after renovation of the sewer is complete. In this second part of this paper, the renovation techniques will be discussed.
The cleaning of Big Ben
Authors: Negus Ken
Published: February 2008

Without doubt, the greatest single act of conservation for Britain's cities has been the passing of the Clean Air Act. Buildings that are cleaned and restored today will stay clean and should be pleasing to look at in the 21st century.
Investigation of fire‐damaged buildings
Authors: Kinnear Roy G.
Published: February 2008

Introduction Most professionals engaged in the investigation of fire‐damaged buildings are very conscious of the potentially dangerous environment in which they work. Fire‐damaged structures generally have no remaining services, these either having been destroyed or disconnected. The damaged parts of the structure are generally all in one colour — black — as a result of extensive smoke damage, and visibility in the absence of artificial lighting is invariably poor.
Effective diagnosis of material problems and defects in building and construction
Authors: Urbanowicz Christopher
Published: February 2008

Introduction Much‐publicised court cases during the past few years have highlighted the legal aspects of professional competence, while formal responsibility for poor judgments in the field of structural surveying has in particular been strongly affirmed.