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During the past decade, the use of video display terminals (VDTs) in information processing and related applications has grown exponentially. Recent estimates place the number of terminals in the workplace at more than ten million. Along with this rapid growth there has been a concomitant increase in concern about the radiation emissions from the VDT. Several types of radiation can be emitted by the terminal. Cataracts, reproductive problems, and skin rashes have been reported by VDT operators and are alleged to result from radiation exposure. However, measurements of the radiation emissions, when compared to the present occupational exposure standards, lead to the conclusion that the terminal does not present a radiation hazard to the VDT operator.

Electron beam is a way of radiation that can induce different reactions on polymers. The purpose of this work is to analyze the effect that the electron beam can produce on polyester fabrics.

Poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) fibres were treated at 0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 KGy. Later on surface modification was analyzed by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM). Colorimetric and thermal measurements were studied too, as well as traction resistance.

Traction resistance showed no significant variations. As a result the authors could observe some changes in fabric witnesses and cristallinity increase, but no changes in traction resistance were observed. Moreover, when surface was studied, roughness was increased as oligomers moved towards fibre surface because of radiation dose.

The authors could appreciate roughness increased with radiation dose as well as yellowness and crystallinity.

This study proposes targeted modernization of the Department of Defense (DoD's) Joint Forces Ammunition Logistics information system by implementing the optimized innovative information technology open architecture design and integrating Radio Frequency Identification Device data technologies and real-time optimization and control mechanisms as the critical technology components of the solution. The innovative information technology, which pursues the focused logistics, will be deployed in 36 months at the estimated cost of $568 million in constant dollars. We estimate that the Systems, Applications, Products (SAP)-based enterprise integration solution that the Army currently pursues will cost another $1.5 billion through the year 2014; however, it is unlikely to deliver the intended technical capabilities.

Despite public unease, certain irradiated foods will be legally on sale in the UK in 1990. The irradiation process is outlined and its applications described. At present 36 countries have legalised the process and more than 40 different foods are treated. Although the process has as yet no detection method, all products so treated will be identified. The main initial application in the UK will probably be spices and herbs, whose decontamination is currently problematic.

The introduction and use of new technology is becoming increasingly commonplace in today's libraries. Technological advances have made possible impressive achievements in improving services and streamlining operations. However, these achievements are often forfeited by managers failing to examine the human effects of automation. This paper highlights the need to consider the human component in the system and reviews health and safety aspects, the ergonomics of library automation, workplace design and job organisation. It concludes that consideration of these factors, combined with detailed knowledge about the needs and habits of personnel, can go a long way to ensure that staff are happy and healthy and that the system runs smoothly and efficiently.

The purpose of this paper is to provide details of recent developments in terahertz (THz) imaging technology and its applications.

This paper first discusses the properties, perceived imaging uses and sources of THz radiation. It then describes passive and active imaging systems through reference to commercial products and their applications. Finally, it considers future prospects and key technological developments.

This paper shows that the commercialisation of passive and active imaging systems has been gradual but uses are emerging in a range of security, material testing and healthcare applications. Market development has been hindered in part by the high cost of systems and certain technological and operational limitations. Research which aims to overcome these problems is widespread and much involves the development of improved sources and detectors.

The paper provides a detailed insight into the present state of THz imaging technology and its applications and identifies and describes critical technological developments.

The aim of this study is to understand the environmental benefits and economic savings associated with adoption of circular economy in the construction sector. The research findings will support different stakeholders and decision makers to develop business models based on responsible consumption of resources and build sustainable business models.

The research uses mixed methodology wherein inventory for life cycle assessment and life cycle costing for environmental and economic impacts is based on primary data using on-site visits for qualitative and quantitative data.

Different types of land transportation infrastructures are compared for their environmental impacts. It is found that bridges have the highest environmental impacts as compared to tunnels, roads and railways. Further, the results affirm the environmental and economic benefits of adopting circular economy practices.

This is one of a kind research that compares the environmental and economic tradeoffs of adopting circular economy in different types of land transportation infrastructures.

Discusses environmental factors which may have harmful effects on the cardiovascular system and cause acute or chronic disease. Classifies these factors as chemical, physical, biological and psychosocial. Concentrates on describing the chemical, physical and biological elements which directly cause cardiovascular diseases, such as nicotine and carbon monoxide (chemical); temperatue and electricity (physical) and viral infections such as maternal coxsackie (biological). Concludes by stressing the need for more intensive studies on this subject.

A UK market of about £295 million over the next five years for advanced sensors and instruments in health and safety is envisaged in a new report commissioned by the Laboratory of the Government Chemist as part of the Government's Advanced Sensors Technology Transfer Programme (ASTTP). Good prospects are also seen in another new ASTTP report on advanced sensors in the healthcare sector. The two reports were introduced at the fourth annual seminar on Advanced Sensors organized by ERA Technology on 10 November 1992.