Detecting delaminations in a composite beam using anti-optimization

The present study proposes a detection technique for delaminations in a laminated beam. The proposed technique optimizes the spatial distribution of harmonic excitation so as to magnify the difference in response between the delaminated and intact beam. The technique is evaluated by numerical simulation of two-layered aluminum beams. Effects of measurement and geometric noise are included in the analysis. A finite element model for a delaminated composite, based on a layer-wise laminated plate theory is used in conjunction with a step function to simulate delaminations     

Geo-electrical survey of masonry

The geo-electrical measuring technique is frequently used for restoration purposes. However, this technique as developed in geology cannot be used without adaptations. The structure that is analysed has geometrical boundaries which influence the measurements and can lead to errors in the interpretation if they are not taken into account. This is illustrated by practical and theoretical tests. In an extensive test programme other aspects of the technique are also considered, such as the influence of electrode configuration and of moisture content.     

Camcorders

The author explains from an engineering standpoint, how some of the camcorder components work. He discusses the solid-state image sensor, the photodetector, scanning, the shutter frame rate, optics, the recording mechanism, the viewfinder, special effects, and automatic features. Motion detection, discrimination, and compensation are also covered. Recommendations as to which features are most useful are made     

Anabolic steroids and blood cell production

In the past anabolic steroids were the first-choice treatment for pancytopenic disorders that were often poorly classified. They are now superseded by other more recently developed methods of treatment--for example bone marrow transplantation and immunosuppression. This contrasts to the authors' experience, and to that of many other haematologists, who have noted anabolic steroid-induced responses in patients who were unsuitable for or unresponsive to the new treatments. Anabolic steroids did not, however, demonstrate an obvious effect in recent controlled trials involving patients with aplastic anaemia. Their use with immunosuppressive treatment is currently under investigation. Although anabolic steroids rarely reverse the course of anaemia in a myelodysplastic syndrome, even a slight haemopoietic improvement is desirable. Children with Fanconi's anaemia may benefit from a reduced transfusion requirement. Uraemic patients may experience significant side effects on standard erythropoietin (epo) treatment. There have been no controlled trials comparing epo versus anabolic steroids or epo versus epo in conjunction with anabolic steroids. Data from uncontrolled studies indicate a better response to anabolic steroids in children and females than in men. In spite of the fact that anabolic steroids have been used for almost 30 years, they should be carefully re-evaluated in scientifically controlled trials to test their efficacy and to compare them with the new treatments. Such trials, however, are impeded by the limited knowledge available with regard to pharmacological parameters and optimal treatment schedules.     

Power engineering industry interaction at Clemson University

The authors present a successful model of industry/university cooperation in establishing a strong power system curriculum in both the graduate and undergraduate level. Numerous long-term and short-term research projects have been developed to satisfy the university mission and to tackle challenging problems facing the power industry. A unique structure for the Clemson University Electric Power Research Association (CUEPRA) has been established to promote electric power system research and to meet the need for a working communication link between the power industry and the academic community. The power industries involvements in the power program at Clemson University and the strategic improvements that have been accomplished in research and education are outlined     

Linkage between inflammation and coagulation: an update on the molecular basis of the crosstalk

Inflammation and coagulation cannot be considered as two separate processes, since there are several connecting points making them part of unique, defensive host response. The endothelium can be considered as the first link between inflammation and coagulation, since damaged endothelium during inflammation represents a surface where proteins involved in both coagulation and the development of inflammation are expressed. During inflammation, cytokines modulate the coagulation system by downregulating the expression of thrombomodulin and the activation of protein C pattern but, at the same time, they induce the expression of tissue factor, modifying, in this way, the balance between procoagulant and anticoagulant activities. At the same time, at the site of tissue injury, platelets become activated and release several mediators that modify tissue integrity. Thrombin, formed following activation of the coagulation cascade, is essential to promote haemostasis but also stimulates several cell functions, including chemotaxis and mitogenesis, which are responsible for the spreading of the lesion and the tissue repair process. Therefore, in the study of inflammation the involvement of the coagulation pathway has to be taken into account, since the interaction between coagulation and inflammation pathways is a critical issue.