A volume of fluid numerical model for wave impacts at coastal structures

The first stages in the development of a new design tool, to be used by coastal engineers to improve the efficiency, analysis, design, management and operation of a wide range of coastal and harbour structures, are described. The tool is based on a two-dimensional numerical model, NEWMOTICS-2D, using the volume of fluid (VOF) method, which permits the rapid calculation of wave hydrodynamics at impermeable natural and man-made structures. The critical hydrodynamic flow processes and forces are identified together with the equations that describe these key processes. The different possible numerical approaches for the solution of these equations, and the types of numerical models currently available, are examined and assessed. Preliminary tests of the model, using comparisons with results from a series of hydraulic model test cases, are described. The results of these tests demonstrate that the VOF approach is particularly appropriate for the simulation of the dynamics of waves at coastal structures because of its flexibility in representing the complex free surfaces encountered during wave impact and breaking. The further programme of work, required to develop the existing model into a tool for use in routine engineering design, is outlined.

Chattels: I have bought it all for you

Outlines the ways by which personal property can be acquired through the gift of chattels, referring to case law including the Court of Appeal rulings in Re Cole (A Bankrupt) and Re Kirkland, and through the declaration of trust, with reference to the Chancery Division ruling in Rowe v Prance. Compares this to the use of constructive trusts or proprietary estoppel to secure assets and considers the need to prove detrimental reliance.

Giving credit where it's due

Discusses the entitlement to occupation rent where one party to a relationship no longer lives in the matrimonial or family home in which he/she has an interest and a right of occupation. Describes the case law illustrating that forceful exclusion of the non-occupying party is not a prerequisite to entitlement to an occupation rent. Considers the calculation of the parties' respective credits where the occupying party has made mortgage repayments since the separation and the other is entitled to an occupation rent.

A just claim?

Discusses the law relating to the payment of occupation rent to a co-owner by the party remaining in the property after a relationship breakdown both under the Trusts of Land and Appointment of Trustees Act 1996 and where the Act is not applicable. Considers, with reference to the Chancery Division decision in Re Barcham, whether a trustee in bankruptcy acting on behalf of the non-occupying person can claim an occupation rent under the court's equitable jurisdiction.

Ethnic variations in the experiences of mental health service users in England: results of a national patient survey programme

Background: Minority ethnic groups in the UK are reported to have a poor experience of mental health services, but comparative information is scarce. Aims: To examine ethnic differences in patients’ experience of community mental health services. Method: Trusts providing mental health services in England conducted surveys in 2004 and 2005 of users of community mental health services. Multiple regression was used to examine ethnic differences in responses. Results: About 27 000 patients responded to each of the surveys, of whom 10% were of minority ethnic origin. In the 2004 survey, age, living alone, the 2004 survey, age, living alone, detention and hospital admissions were stronger predictors of patient experience than ethnicity. Self-reported mental health status had the strongest explanatory effect. In the 2005 survey, the main negative differences relative to the White British were for Asians. Conclusions: Ethnicity had a smaller effect on patient experience than other variables. Relative to the White British, the Black group did not report negative experiences whereas the Asian group were most likely to respond negatively. However, there is a need for improvements in services for minority ethnic groups, including access to talking therapies and better recording of ethnicity.