SUMMARYA new variational inequality formulation for seepage problems with free surfaces is presented, in which a boundary condition of Signorini's type is prescribed over the potential seepage surfaces. This makes the singularity of seepage points eliminated and the location of seepage points determined easily. Compared to other variational formulations, the proposed formulation can effectively overcome the mesh dependency and significantly improve the numerical stability. A very challenging engineering example with complicated geometry and strong inhomogeneity is investigated in detail.

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This was the largest study that has evaluated school scoliosis screening on students who were followed during their adolescence and accounted for all relevant costs. The cost per student screened in the scoliosis screening program in Hong Kong was comparable to that in Rochester, which had a similar protocol and was evaluated in a similar manner. The estimated costs can help the policy makers when they allocate healthcare resources.