This paper proposes a reliability-based design optimization (RBDO) approach that adopts the second-order reliability method (SORM) and complex-step (CS) derivative approximation. The failure probabilities are estimated using SORM, with Breitung’s formula technique established by Hohenbichler Rackwitz, their sensitivities analytically derived. CS approximation is used to perform sensitivity anal...

introduction: evaluation of nurse-patient communication skills have been strongly emphasized in order to ensure the possibility of effective communication as well as assessment of the effect of communication skills training programs. reaching this goal requires the use of standard instruments which is based on the native culture of the target group. due to the absence of native instruments in t...

Currently, the requirements of Business sector promote more and more complex Information Systems. Reliability is one of the quality characteristics widely expected by users and developers. This characteristic is architectural by nature since it can be directly promoted by software architecture. This relation determines the importance of designing architectures that guarantee reliable systems. T...

Purpose – The spindle behavior of machines and systems depends largely on the choice and design quality of the mechanical components used for the displacement between different parts. As far as very high technology is concerned, air bearings are suitable, for instance, for machining a telescope mirror or for systems used in medical applications that require a micro and nanometric resolution in ...