bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Computerized Physician Order Entry on Medication Prescription Errors and Clinical Outcome in Pediatric and Intensive Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: van Rosse Floor , Maat Barbara , Rademaker Carin M. A. , van Vught Adrianus J. , Egberts Antoine C. G. , Bollen Casper W.
Published: March 2009

CONTEXT. Pediatric and intensive care patients are particularly at risk for medication errors. Computerized physician order entry systems could be effective in reducing medication errors and improving outcome. Effectiveness of computerized physician order entry systems has been shown in adult medical care. However, in critically ill patients and/or children, medication prescribing is a more complex process, and usefulness of computerized physician order entry systems has yet to be established.

OBJECTIVE. To evaluate the effects of computerized physician order entry systems on medication prescription errors, adverse drug events, and mortality in inpatient pediatric care and neonatal, pediatric or adult intensive care settings.

METHODS. PubMed, the Cochrane library, and Embase up to November 2007 were used as our data sources. Inclusion criteria were studies of (1) children 0 to 18 years old and/or ICU patients (including adults), (2) computerized physician order entry versus no computerized physician order entry as intervention, and (3) randomized trial or observational study design. All studies were validated, and data were analyzed.

RESULTS. Twelve studies, all observational, met our inclusion criteria. Eight studies took place at an ICU: 4 were adult ICUs, and 4 were PICUs and/or NICUs. Four studies were pediatric inpatient studies. Meta-analysis showed a significant decreased risk of medication prescription errors with use of computerized physician order entry. However, there was no significant reduction in adverse drug events or mortality rates. A qualitative assessment of studies revealed the implementation process of computerized physician order entry software as a critical factor for outcome.

CONCLUSIONS. Introduction of computerized physician order entry systems clearly reduces medication prescription errors; however, clinical benefit of computerized physician order entry systems in pediatric or ICU settings has not yet been demonstrated. The quality of the implementation process could be a decisive factor determining overall success or failure.
Growth of zirconia particles by heterocoagulation, self-assembly, and convection-induced coagulation during forced hydrolysis in a refluxed reaction vessel
Authors: Chang Yu-Chen , Cheng Kuei-Yuan
Published: March 2009

In literature related to forced hydrolysis of zirconia, heterocoagulation between large particulates and primary crystallites is generally accepted as the principal route of growth. Our dynamic light scattering (DLS) results revealed an S-shaped growth curve with the growth rate (slope) varying notably from one stage to the other, implying that other coagulation mechanisms may be present. Time-sequenced side-by-side electron microscopy and DLS analyses were conducted along the curves alongside with field emission scanning electron microscopy of full-grown particles. We find that particles growth follows a two-stage heterocoagulation process with primary crystallites and small particles produced from the first-stage serving as building blocks for the first and second stages, respectively. It interesting to note that growth during the second stage occurs by self-assembly and a hypothesis is proposed. Convection-induced coagulation leads to enhanced particle growth for a low precursor concentration but minimal growth for a higher one, both of which conform to the predictions of Melis et al. [AIChE J. 45, 1383 (1999)].
Fabrication of well-dispersed barium titanate nanoparticles by the electrospray of a colloidal solution
Authors: Suzuki Keigo , Tanaka Nobuhiko , Kageyama Keisuke , Takagi Hiroshi
Published: March 2009

The electrospray of a colloidal microemulsion (ME) solution and subsequent on-line annealing were used to produce barium titanate nanoparticles (BTO-NPs). The solvent of the ME solution (cyclohexane) was replaced with a high-conductivity solution (solute: ammonium acetate, solvent: tetrahydrofurfuryl alcohol, conductivity: 3.1 × 10−2 S/m) to generate ultrafine droplets during the electrospraying. Well-dispersed and well-crystallized BTO-NPs with a perovskite structure were successfully fabricated at an annealing temperature of 1173 K. The size distribution of the BTO-NPs was successfully measured by applying a differential mobility analyzer and condensation nucleation counter to nanoparticles in-flight. The average size of the BTO-NPs was controlled within a range of 15 to 25 nm by changing the feeding rate. The electrospray of an ME solution with lower conductivity (solvent: 1-octanol, conductivity: 7.0 × 10−4 S/m) yielded amorphous particles with larger particle sizes. Thus, the electrospray of a high-conductivity solution is required to fabricate well-crystallized and dense BTO-NPs with smaller particle sizes.
Design of pectin beads for oral protein delivery
Authors: Urbano Alice , Ribeiro António , Veiga Francisco
Published: March 2009

Protein and peptide drugs are becoming a very important class of therapeutic agents owing to recent and remarkable advances in the area of biotechnology. However, most of them are not therapeutically active after oral administration due to severe physical and enzymatic barriers of the gastrointestinal tract. A combination of colonic targeting using pectin-based systems and microencapsulation methods was used to increase the oral bioavailability of proteins. The purpose of this investigation was therefore, to study under gastrointestinal the release conditions of bovine serum albumin from calcium pectinate beads prepared by extrusion/external gelation. Matrix reinforcement with dextran sulfate and different types of coatings was investigated.
Studies on the iron-catalyzed Fischer-Tropsch process in a laminar flow slurry column reactor
Authors: Vandu C.O. , Heesink A.B.M. , Versteeg G.F. , Boerrigter H.
Published: March 2009

The Fischer-Tropsch process was studied in a laminar flow slurry bubble column reactor. Prior to the experiments, hydrodynamic studies were done in a cold-flow model of the reactor. A mathematical model was also developed for the reactor, based on the kinetic data of an iron-based catalyst. The present modeling approach employed enabled the computation of the extent of gas contraction due to reaction. Six sets of experimental runs were carried out to validate the model, the last utilizing biosyngas, produced by the gasification of willow. The model developed was suitable to predict the performance of the reactor, with the rate parameters adjusted, necessitated by the fact that the catalyst activity changes with time-on-stream. The effect of a number of selected parameters on the Fischer-Tropsch process was also investigated.
Optimization of mixing in stirred bioreactors, 2: Selection of optimum impeller combinations for non-aerated simulated broths
Authors: Galaction Anca-Irina , Folescu Elena , Cascaval Dan
Published: March 2009

Although radial impellers, especially the Rushton turbine, are widely used in stirred bioreactors, their applicability is limited by the high apparent viscosities of the broths. For optimizing mechanical mixing by selecting the appropriate impeller for a specific fermentation broth or process, the comparative analysis of the mixing efficiency, energy costs and shear effects on the biocatalysts is required. By means of this analysis, three different combinations of radial impellers for water and viscous simulated broths were selected for attaining optimum mixing in a bioreactor. The proposed impellers combinations offer the most intense and uniformly distributed mixing and the lowest specific power consumption required for reaching a maximum level of mixing time of less than one minute.
Metal complexes of 3-chloro-4-hydrazino-carbonyl-methoxy-benzenesulfondibuthylamide
Authors: Mocanu Anca , Cernatescu Corina
Published: March 2009

By taking the biological activity of 3-chloro-4-hydrazinocarbonyl-methoxy-benzenesulphondibuthylamide and of some transitional metals (Cu, Co, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Sn) into account we considered it useful to capitalize the already obtained hydrazide by complexion reactions with various metallic salts. The reaction was carried out in the organic solvent medium, by heating under stirring. The obtained products were purified by recrystallization from organic solvents (especially ethanol) and characterized by means of melting points, elemental analysis and spectral measurements.
A corn stem as biomaterial for Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells immobilization for the ethanol production
Authors: Vucurovic Vesna , Razmovski Radojka , Rebic Mario
Published: March 2009

This study provides a preliminary contribution to the development of a bioprocess for the production of ethanol using Saccharomyces cerevisiae cells immobilized onto a corn stem. For this purpose, the yeast cells were submitted to the batch tests in situ adsorption onto 0.5 cm long corn stem. Cells immobilization was analyzed by optical microscopy. The number of the yeast cells, fermentation kinetics, the ethanol yield in the presence or the absence of the support in the fermentation medium was investigated. It was determined that the addition of the corn stem led to the abrupt increase of the yeast cells number in substrate, ethanol yield, pH value, a total dissolved salts content and substrate conductivity. The addition of 5 and 10g of the corn stem pith per liter of the medium decreased the amount of residual sugar. The results indicate that a corn stem might be a good carrier for the yeast cell immobilization, and also a cheap alternative recourse of mineral components with the possibility of application for improving ethanol productivities.
Clinical Reasoning in Musculoskeletal Practice: Students' Conceptualizations
Authors: Hendrick Paul , Bond Carol , Duncan Elizabeth , Hale Leigh
Published: March 2009

Background

Qualitative research on physical therapist students' conceptualizations of clinical reasoning (CR) is sparse.

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore CR from students' perspectives.

Design

For this study, a qualitative, cross-sectional design was used.

Methods

Thirty-one students were randomly selected from years 2, 3, and 4 of an undergraduate physical therapist program in New Zealand. Students were interviewed about their understanding of CR and how they used it in practice in a recent musculoskeletal placement. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. A 3-stage analysis included the categorization of students' conceptualizations on the basis of the meaning and the structure of each experience and the identification of cross-category themes.

Results

Five qualitatively different categories were identified: A–applying knowledge and experience to the problem, patient, or situation; B–analyzing and reanalyzing to deduce the problem and treatment; C–rationalizing or justifying what and why; D–combining knowledge to reach a conclusion; and E–problem solving and pattern building. Cross-category analysis revealed 5 general themes: forms of CR, spatiotemporal aspects, the degree of focus on the patient, attributions of confidence, and the role of clinical experience.

Conclusions

Categories formed a continuum of CR from less to more sophistication and complexity. Students were distributed evenly across categories, except for category E, which included only students from years 3 and 4. Each category comprised a logical, coherent experiential field. The general themes as critical dimensions suggest a new way of exploring CR and suggest a possible pathway of development, but further research is required. These findings have implications for teaching and the development of physical therapy curricula.
Outbreak of Lawsonia intracellularis on a Standardbred breeding farm in North Carolina
Authors: Merlo J. L. , Sheats M. K. , Elce Y. , Hunter S. , Breuhaus B. A.
Published: March 2009

Lawsonia intracellularis is a cause of protein‐losing enteropathy in weanling foals commonly causing signs including diarrhoea, oedema and unthrifty appearance. It has previously been reported as sporadic cases throughout the USA, Canada and Europe. Only recently have outbreaks on a single farm location been reported. The cases reported here are an example of multiple foals on a single farm testing serologically positive for L. intracellularis. These foals ranged in severity from asymptomatic to severely hypoproteinaemic and septic; however, none of the foals ever displayed diarrhoea, which is the most common presenting sign of this disease process.
Avalanches overflowing a dam: dead zone, granular bore and run-out shortening
Authors: Faug Thierry , Chanut Benoit , Naaim Mohamed , Perrin Bertrand
Published: March 2009

The influence of a dam on granular avalanches was investigated. Small-scale laboratory experiments were designed to study the effectiveness of dams built to protect against large-scale dense snow avalanches. These experiments consisted of releasing a granular mass that first flowed down an inclined channel, then hit and overflowed a dam spanning the channel exit and finally spread out on an inclined unconfined run-out zone. First, we measured the volume retained upstream of the obstacle and the overrun length downstream of the obstacle. In the avalanche regime studied here, no simple relation was found between the volume retained and the run-out shortening resulting from the obstacle. The results highlighted that the avalanche run-out was also shortened by complex local energy dissipation. Second, we report the study of the granular deposit propagating upstream of the dam. We show that there was a change in behaviour from an overflow-type regime for low dam heights to a bore regime for higher dam heights. Finally, we show that this change in behaviour directly influenced the local energy dissipation and the resulting avalanche run-out shortening downstream of the dam.
Characteristics of ionic concentration and δ18O and their variability in dry-season and wet-season snow on Ürümqi glacier No. 1, eastern Tien Shan, central Asia
Authors: Li Zhongqin , Wang Wenbin , Wang Feiteng , Li Huilin , Mingjun Zhang
Published: March 2009

To investigate the environmental and climatic significance of the ice-core records from the Tien Shan, central Asia, the characteristics of ionic concentration and oxygen isotopic ratio (δ18O) as well as their variability are assessed from surface-snow samples as well as old-snow samples collected year-round at weekly intervals from November 2002 to October 2005 on Ürümqi glacier No. 1, eastern Tien Shan. The results indicate that the δ18O in surface-snow samples is reversely coincident with air temperature and insignificantly affected by post-depositional processes. Ionic concentrations in the wet-season (1 November to 31 March) snow are overall higher than those in dry-season (1 April to 31 October) snow, while the variability of relative ionic composition between dry seasons is slightly less than that between wet seasons. During dry seasons, surface-snow chemistry was mostly controlled by the chemical content entrained in some sporadic precipitations. When precipitation is absent, the effect of all post-depositional processes together elevated the ionic concentrations in surface snow. During wet seasons, the snow chemistry is determined mainly by the input of aerosols entrained in precipitation and the elution process from percolation of meltwater.
High correlation between winter precipitation and air temperature in heavy-snowfall areas in Japan
Authors: Takeuchi Yukari , Endo Yasoichi , Murakami Shigeki
Published: March 2009

Long-term data of winter air temperature and precipitation were analyzed and the correlation between them investigated in order to identify the factors influencing snow reduction during the recent warmer winters in the heavy-snowfall areas in Japan. A high negative correlation between winter precipitation and air temperature was identified in the heavy-snowfall areas on the Sea of Japan side in the center of the main island (Honshu). It was confirmed that precipitation is mainly caused by cold winter monsoons, and thus correlates to a large extent with air temperature in these areas. The precipitation decrease can be considered an effective factor for the recent reduction in snow as well as the snowfall to precipitation ratio. This should be taken into account for a better prediction of snow reduction in relation to global warming.
Large-scale characteristics of the distribution of blowing-snow sublimation
Authors: Sugiura Konosuke , Ohata Tetsuo
Published: March 2009

To consider the large-scale characteristics of blowing-snow sublimation and its importance in the hydrological cycle in the cryosphere, we investigated the sublimation of blowing snow particles on a global scale using the global datasets of the European Centre for Medium-RangeWeather Forecasts (ECMWF) re-analysis data and the International Satellite Land Surface Climatology Project (ISLSCP) Initiative I data for 1987. The sublimation fluxes of blowing snow particles were estimated globally with 2.5˚ resolution at 6 hour intervals. We found that the sublimation of blowing snow particles occurs more widely in the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere, does not increase monotonously with latitude, and becomes more active in the polar coast regions and highlands, although the annual mean sublimation fluxes of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres are almost equal. In addition, we confirmed the characteristic seasonal changes in the area of sublimation in the Northern Hemisphere. Although we need to incorporate continuous parameters from systematic ground-based studies of the structure of blowing snow in specific fields to reduce uncertainty regarding the characteristics of blowing snow, our results point to a need to review the current understanding of the hydrological cycle.
Use of a snowmelt model for weekly flood forecast for a major reservoir in Lithuania
Authors: Simaityte Jurgita , Bocchiola Daniele , Augutis Juozas , Rosso Renzo
Published: March 2009

A snowmelt model is used for the weekly forecast of daily discharges in the Kaunas reservoir, Lithuania. The results are used to feed a risk-based decision-making model developed by the first author for dam operation during floods. Physically based calibration of a degree-day model is carried out and coupled with flow routing using Nash’s instantaneous unit hydrograph theory. Temperature forecast is used as the driving variable. Due to the relative smoothness of snowmelt over time and the considerable basin size, the model provides acceptable results. Kalman filtering is then used to merge the estimates from the snowmelt model with those from an Arima flow model, resulting in better forecasting than that using each method alone. Uncertainty analysis of the snowmelt-model results is then carried out, showing considerable influence of the main parameter degree-day and of soil moisture conditions. Therefore these must be accurately estimated for forecasting purposes during flood events.
Macro and Micro Elemental Analysis of Anethum Sowa L. (Dill) Stem By X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
Authors: Saleh-e-in M Moshfekus , Sultana Abida , Hossain M Abul , Ahsan Mainul , Roy Sudhangshu Kumar
Published: March 2009

Anethum sowa L. (Dill) stem portions were analyzed for its macro and micro elemental concentration by XRF spectrometry collected from different places of Bangladesh. The plants were collected when those were 35 cm in height i.e. within 40-45 days of sowing. Results of proximate analyses showed that the stem parts contained highest level of moisture (93.67), ash (1.62) and dry matter (30.77%) on fresh weight basis (g/100g). The highest level of mineral contents were Ca(478.50Â±6.22), K(336.65Â±3.26), Cl(153.92Â±3.26), Na(114.86Â±1.38), S(96.65Â±1.76), Mg(63.96Â±1.15), P(49.41Â±0.74), Al(41.75Â±0.71), Fe(34.57Â±1.33), Si(31.03Â±0.18), Ni (11.98Â±0.22) and Ti (3.75Â±0.28) in mg/100g on fresh weight basis. Cu, Sr, Rb, Zn, Ba and Zr were present in small amount and Y, Cu and Mn were present in trace amount. However, the toxic elements like Co, Pb, As and Hg were not found in the present study. Presence of higher amounts of mineral contents in the stem parts could potentially be consumed as supplement as human diets or livestock feed as well as pharmaceutical preparation. Key words: Anethum sowa L., XRF spectrometry, Dill, Condiment, Macro and micro elements, Elemental composition. Â Â Â  doi: 10.3329/bjsir.v43i4.2238 Â  Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 43(4), 483-494, 2008
Evodiamine Stabilizes Topoisomerase I-DNA Cleavable Complex to Inhibit Topoisomerase I Activity
Authors: Chan Agnes L.-F. , Chang Wen-Shin , Chen Li-Min , Lee Chi-Ming , Chen Chiao-En , Lin Chun-Mao , Hwang Jau-Lang
Published: March 2009

Evodiamine (EVO), an alkaloidal compound isolated from Evodia rutaecarpa (Juss.), has been reported to affect many physiological functions. Topoisomerase inhibitors have been developed in a variety of clinical applications. In the present study, we report the topoisomerase I (TopI) inhibitory activity of EVO, which may have properties that lead to improved therapeutic benefits. EVO is able to inhibit supercoiled plasmid DNA relaxation catalyzed by TopI. Upon treatment 0~10 μM EVO TopI was depleted in MCF-7 breast cancer cells in a concentration-dependent and time-dependent manner in 0~120 min. A K-SDS precipitation assay was performed to measure the extent of Top I-trapped chromosomal DNA. The ability of EVO to cause the formation of a TopI-DNA complex increased in a concentration-dependent manner, in that the DNA trapped increased by 24.2% in cells treated with 30 μM. The results suggest that EVO inhibits TopI by stabilizing the enzyme and DNA covalent complex.
Intrauterine exposure to mycophenolate mofetil and multiple congenital anomalies in a newborn: Possible teratogenic effect
Authors: Jackson Paige , Paquette Lisa , Watiker Valerie , Randolph Linda , Ramanathan Rangasamy , Seri Istvan
Published: March 2009

There is very little data linking the use of immunomodulating agents following solid organ transplantation in pregnant women with specific congenital anomalies in the offspring. Here we report on a late preterm infant with multiple, nonsyndromic, congenital anomalies including microtia/anotia, cleft lip and palate, micrognathia, ocular hypertelorism, microphthalmia and cataracts, complex congenital heart disease, rib anomalies, and intestinal malrotation. The similarity of the complex anomalies in our case to other reported cases suggests that the abnormalities are likely due to mycophenolate mofetil alone or in combination with other immunosuppressive medications taken by the mother during pregnancy. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Click Chemistry for the Identification of G‐Quadruplex Structures: Discovery of a DNA–RNA G‐Quadruplex
Authors: Xu Yan , Suzuki Yuta , Komiyama Makoto
Published: March 2009

A trap that closes with a “click”: The copper‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition can occur in different G‐quadruplex structures (see scheme). The species trapped by the click reaction can then be separated and analyzed. By using this approach, a DNA–RNA hybrid‐type G‐quadruplex structure formed by human telomeric DNA and RNA sequences was detected.

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The Colloidal Suprastructure of Smart Microgels at Oil–Water Interfaces
Authors: Brugger Bastian , Rütten Stephan , Phan Kim‐Ho , Möller Martin , Richtering Walter
Published: March 2009

Oil on troubled waters: Stimuli‐sensitive emulsions have been used to prepare temperature‐ and pH‐responsive microgels. The emulsion stability at oil–water interfaces is not governed by the particle packing density, and structural changes induced by the interface lead to connections between the individual microgels (see picture; scale bar 1 μm), which behave very differently compared to solid‐particle‐stabilized emulsions.

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Synthesis and characterization of novel wholly para‐oriented aromatic polyamide‐hydrazides containing sulfone‐ether linkages
Authors: Mohamed Nadia Ahmed , Fahmy Mona Mohamed
Published: March 2009

Four novel wholly para‐oriented aromatic polyamide‐hydrazides containing flexibilizing sulfone‐ether linkages in their main chains have been synthesized from 4‐amino‐3‐hydroxy benzhydrazide (4A3HBH) with either 4,4′‐sulfonyldibenzoyl chloride (SDBC), 4,4′‐[sulfonylbis(1,4‐phenylene)dioxy]dibenzoyl chloride (SODBC), 4,4′‐[sulfonylbis(2,6‐dimethyl‐1,4‐phenylene)dioxy]dibenzoyl chloride (4MeSODBC), or 4,4′‐(1,4‐phenylenedioxy)dibenzoyl chloride (ODBC) via a low‐temperature solution polycondensation reaction. A polyamide‐hydrazide without the flexibilizing linkages is also investigated for comparison. It was synthesized from 4A3HBH and terephthaloyl chloride (TCl) by the same synthetic route. The intrinsic viscosities of the polymer ranged from 2.85 to 4.83 dL g−1 in N,N‐dimethyl acetamide (DMAc) at 30°C and decreased with introducing the flexibilizing linkages into the polymer. All the polymers were soluble in DMAc, N,N‐dimethyl formamide (DMF), and N‐methyl‐2‐pyrrolidone (NMP), and their solutions could be cast into films with good mechanical strengths. Further, they exhibited a great affinity to water sorption. Their solubility and hydrophilicity increased remarkably by introducing the flexibilizing linkages. The polymers could be thermally cyclodehydrated into the corresponding poly(1,3,4‐oxadiazolyl‐benzoxazoles) approximately in the region of 295–470°C either in nitrogen or in air atmospheres. The flexibilizing linkages improve the solubility of the resulting poly(1,3,4‐oxadiazolyl‐benzoxazoles) when compared with poly(1,3,4‐oxadiazolyl‐benzoxazoles) free from these linkages. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Effects of ultrasonic irradiation on the morphology of chemically prepared polyaniline nanofibers
Authors: Li Yu , Wang Yangyong , Wu Dan , Jing Xinli
Published: March 2009

Polyaniline (PANI) nanofibers were chemically prepared through ultrasonic irradiated polymerization with varying ultrasonic power, frequency, and reaction temperature. It was found that PANI nanofibers with smoother surfaces and uniform diameters can be achieved by increasing the ultrasonic power or the reaction temperature in the studied ranges; a higher reaction temperature was also beneficial for producing PANI nanofibers with larger aspect ratios. With the ultrasonic power set to 250 W, although the polymer prepared at higher frequencies showed higher purity as well as smoother surfaces than those at lower frequencies, the one prepared at 50 kHz with uniform diameters of about 80 nm and lengths of about 700 nm performed best. With the ultrasonic power and frequency fixed and aniline polymerization carried out between 0 and 75°C, PANI nanofibers exhibiting larger aspect ratio and less agglomeration were obtained under a higher reaction temperature. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
Comparative study of the release kinetics of osmotically active solutes from hydrophobic elastomeric matrices combined with the characterization of the depleted matrices
Authors: Soulas Dimitrios N. , Sanopoulou Merope , Papadokostaki Kyriaki G.
Published: March 2009

The release process of three osmotically active solutes with various solubilities in water (NaCl, CsNO3, and CsCl) from silicone rubber matrices is presented. The kinetics of release for different initial loads of the salts were supplemented by measurements of the kinetics of concurrent water uptake. To gain insight on the relevant non‐Fickian transport mechanisms, the morphology, the diffusion and sorption properties and the physicochemical state of water in the salt‐depleted matrices were studied. In addition, both salt‐loaded and salt‐depleted matrices were characterized with respect to their mechanical properties. The combined information, derived from these techniques, supported the operation of a release mechanism carried out through the formation of microscopic cracks, interconnecting the permanently formed cavities inside the matrices. The results indicate that these microscopic cracks may have healed upon drying. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2009
A computer‐based tool to foster engineering students' interest in dynamics
Authors: Llado Juan , Sanchez Beatriz
Published: March 2009

With the aim of connecting the subject Dynamics with the real world, an educational software has been developed to assist teaching the course to first‐year undergraduate industrial engineering students. The software simulates the 3D movement of the oscillating group of a washing machine that includes some of the familiar elements of a mechanical system: motors, pulleys, springs, or shock absorbers. The student is able to set up, run, and analyze the output of the mechanical model, which enhances the students' appreciation of the potential and utility of the mathematical model obtained for a mechanical system and helps them to reinforce some relevant mechanical concepts by changing the input parameters of a specific system. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 19: 475–486, 2011
Inflammatory cytokines and the GH/IGF‐I axis: novel actions on bone growth
Authors: Pass C. , MacRae V. E. , Ahmed S. F. , Farquharson C.
Published: March 2009

Longitudinal bone growth is a tightly regulated process that relies on complex synchronized mechanisms at the growth plate. Chronic paediatric inflammatory diseases are well accepted to lead to growth retardation and this is likely due to raised inflammatory cytokine levels and reduced growth hormone (GH)/insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐I) signalling. The precise cellular mechanisms responsible for this inhibition are unclear and therefore in this article, we will review the potential interactions between inflammatory cytokines and the GH/IGF‐I axis in the regulation of bone growth. In particular, we will emphasis the potential contribution of the suppressors of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins, and in particular SOCS2, in mediating this process. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ready or not?
Authors: Moore Renee A.
Published: March 2009

In this chapter, the English faculty at a rural community college used part of the school's mandatory reaccreditation process to investigate the increasing lack of readiness among incoming students and discovered a serious disconnect between the new challenges and the school's traditional English program.
Making prealgebra meaningful: It starts with faculty inquiry
Authors: Klein Brock , Wright Lynn Marie
Published: March 2009

In this chapter, the authors describe their efforts, as codirectors of Pasadena City College's Teaching and Learning Center, to increase success rates in prealgebra and address issues of equity and access through a faculty inquiry‐based process.
Pedagogies of visibility: The full E‐mersion and beyond
Authors: Juzwiak Chris , Tiernan Monette
Published: March 2009

This chapter shares the experience of several English faculty members of Glendale Community College in their efforts to improve student outcomes in developmental composition classes through extensive use of technology in the classroom. Their pedagogies of visibility––of literacy, of learning, and of research––have allowed them to better understand not only how their students learn, but also how to continue to document progress in ways that can be useful to others.
State college readiness initiatives and community colleges
Authors: Spence David
Published: March 2009

This chapter traces the author's work in developing California State University's Early Assessment Program, an initiative that aligned eleventh‐grade performance standards, new English and mathematics curriculum, and teacher education and professional development opportunities to prepare students to meet the state university entrance requirements.
Simulation of a jet‐assisted circulation jacketed batch reactor for polymerization of methylmethacrylate
Authors: Chang Jyh‐Shyong , Chen Wen‐Jang
Published: March 2009

A simulation of a five‐liter, agitated, nonisothermal, jet‐assisted circulation, jacketed methylmethacrylate polymerization batch reactor considering all the available physical‐chemical properties and related correlations for agitation and heat transfer coefficients is presented. From the calculated cumulative radical population, the phenomena of early runaway, thermal ignition and gel effect ignition are identified. Variations of medium viscosity over the course of the polymerization reaction affect the performance of the agitator and the overall heat transfer coefficient. The simulation results indicate that much higher heat duties can be removed by this special equipment design than in the case of a conventional vessel design.
Investigation of so2 oxidation rates in trickle‐bed reactors operating at low liquid flow rates
Authors: Haure Patricia M. , Hudgins R. R. , Silvestion P. L.
Published: March 2009

Published measurements of the rates of sulfur dioxide oxidation over active carbon in trickle—bed reactors exhibit conflicting behaviour as the water flow is decreased. Experiments were undertaken to find the source of this unexpected behaviour. These indicate that at low liquid flow rates, steady state is attained remarkably slowly, requiring up to 5 h. During this period, rates continually increase. From their descriptions of experimental procedures, some investigators assumed steady state to exist after a set time interval, regardless of liquid flow rate. This seems to explain the conflicting measurements.
Détermination de constantes cinétiques du craquage catalytique par la modélisation du test de microactivité (MAT)
Authors: Pitault Isabelle , Forissier Michel , Bernard Jean‐René
Published: March 2009

Le test de microactivité (MAT), utilisé pour comparer les catalyseurs de craquage, fonctionne avec un réacteur approximativement piston, isotherme et non stationnaire. Les rendements à la sortie d'un tel réacteur sont calculés dans le cas d'un modèle cinétique à familles (lumps), d'une grande expansion molaire et d'une désactivation rapide du catalyseur fonction de la concentration en poison. Le poison (le coke dans le cas du craquage catalytique) est un produit résultant de plusieurs chemins réactionnels.

Les résultats sont appliqués à la cinétique du craquage catalytique avec un modèle à 4 familles (charge, essence, gaz et coke).

La comparaison entre les rendements observés et calculés, permet l'ajustement des constantes cinétiques à partir d'un groupe d'expériences réalisées dans des conditions variées.

La simulation des profils de concentration dans le réacteur, permet une meilleure compréhension du déroulement de la réaction.
Desorption of cadmium from algal biosorbent
Authors: Aldor Ilana , Fourest Eric , Volesky Bohumil
Published: March 2009

Desorption of metal‐laden new biosorbent material was studied using batch and column equilibrium elution processes. Equilibrium screening tests of cadmium desorption established a solution of HC1 as the most appropriate eluant at approximately pH 1.0. The desorption of Cd by protons was indicated to be a reversible exchange with a stoichiometric coefficient of 1.24. The solid to liquid ratio (biosorbent mass to elutant volume) is described as a key parameter in determination of elution efficiency, affecting simultaneously the pH at desorption equilibrium, the concentration of cadmium released, and the concentration ratio of the overall metal recovery process. When the pH is maintained constant, the solid to liquid ratio has little influence on metal recovery but still controls the concentration ratio. Recycling a small amount of eluant through a desorption column with metal‐laden biosorbent material resulted in very high solid‐to‐liquid ratios (up to 130 g/L) leading to high value of 70 for the metal concentration ratio of the sorption/desorption process. No loss of cadmium biosorbent properties was observed in three consecutive metal uptake/desorption cycles.
Mathematical modeling of the rotary coke calcining kiln
Authors: Bui R. T. , Simard G. , Charette A. , Kocaefe Y. , Perron J.
Published: March 2009

A three‐dimensional steady‐state mathematical model of a rotary calcining kiln for the petroleum coke is presented. The model takes into account all the physical phenomena of interest, from gas flow, heat transfer, volatile matter and coke dust evolution and combustion, to the granular bed motion and the thermal effects of the refractories. The model is built in modular form with several submodels coupled together. This methodology facilitates the construction of the model and its use. This article gives a detailed mathematical description of the model. A complete simulation is presented, and the results are discussed. Data coming from an industrial kiln in operation are used for validation, and the results show that the model can be a useful tool for solving problems of kiln operation or design.
Visual study of an airlift pump operating at low submergence ratios
Authors: Tramba A. , Topalidou A. , Kastrinakis E. G. , Nychas S. G. , Francois P. , Scrivener O.
Published: March 2009

The operation of an airlift pump, working under low submergence ratios (between 0.17 and 0.31), has been visually studied. The two‐phase flow structures occurring in the riser channel and around the injector section were recorded by a high speed video system. A quasi‐periodic burst‐like behaviour characterised the flow pattern in the riser tube, which appeared to dominate the operation of the airlift pump under the conditions of low submergence ratios. An interesting aspect of the airlift pump operation, under these conditions, is that the two phases show a large interface area; this is due to the high dispersion degree of the two‐phase mixture in the riser duct. Data and pictures from video recordings regarding the sequence, time and length scales of the occurring flow patterns are reported.
Wall effect for the fall of spheres in cylindrical tubes at high reynolds number
Authors: Uhlherr P. H. T. , Chhabra R. P.
Published: March 2009

New experimental results on the wall effect for sphere motion in cylindrical tubes are presented and discussed for the conditions d/D ≤ 0.9 and Rem ≤ 20000. Extensive comparisons with previous studies have been carried out to evaluate their predictability and to demonstrate the utility of the present results.

The wall factor, defined as the ratio of settling velocity in an unbounded medium to that measured in a cylindrical tube, is found to depend on sphere‐to‐tube diameter ratio and on sphere Reynolds number. However, for small values of the Reynolds number (Re ≤ 0.5), as well for large values (Re ≥ 1000), the Reynolds number dependence of the wall factor disappears; in these regions, only the dependence on diameter ratio remains.
Gas hold‐up and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient in an aerated agitated vessel without baffles having forward‐reverse rotating impellers
Authors: Yoshida M. , Kitamura A. , Yamagiwa K. , Ohkawa A.
Published: March 2009

Gas hold‐up and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient were studied in a gas‐liquid contactor without baffles, containing multiple impellers with four delta‐type blades. The blades of each adjacent impeller were offset by 45° in an alternating manner. The direction of rotation of the impellers periodically was reversed. This new type of agitated gas‐liquid contactor was denoted as “AJITER”. The effects of the gas sparging rate, the forward‐reverse agitation rate and the number of impellers on the gas hold‐up and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient in the AJITER when different types of gas spargers were used were evaluated experimentally for an air‐water system. Empirical relationships are presented to predict the gas hold‐up and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient. The differences in performance between the AJITER and existing types of gas‐liquid contactors are discussed in terms of the differences in the gas hold‐up and volumetric oxygen transfer coefficient due to changes in the superficial gas velocity.
Transition to turbulent fluidization in a binary solids fluidized bed
Authors: Bai D. , Masuda Y. , Nakagawa N. , Kato K.
Published: March 2009

This paper presents a study on the transition velocity from bubbling to turbulent fluidization in a binary solids fluidized bed. Experiments were carried out with two kinds of binary solids mixtures with FCC as fine particles and silica sands as coarse particles. The onset velocity to turbulent fluidization, Uc, determined by the measurement of pressure fluctuations, was found to increase with increasing the fraction of coarse/heavy solids. By introducing an equivalent particle diameter and an equivalent particle density, the results obtained in this study can properly be described by a general correlation of Uc proposed by Cai and co‐workers (1989) for mono‐density particles with relatively narrow size distribution.
Experimental study of the tail end selective hydrogenation of steam cracking C2‐C3 mixture
Authors: Godínez C. , Cabanes A. L. , Víllora G.
Published: March 2009

Diolefins and alkynes in C2‐C3 olefins streams can be selectively hydrogenated to produce high‐purity mono‐olefins for downstream polyolefin production. The aim of this paper is on the experimental study of the tail end selective hydrogenation of a stream cracking C2‐C3 cut, over two different palladium/alumina catalysts.

A series of integral reactor type experiments were performed and the integral method was used for the kinetic analysis. The minimization of the objective function was made by the Marquardt algorithm for multiple response and the continuity equation set integrated by fourth order Runge‐Kutta technique. The comparison between experimental and observed values of the acetylene, ethylene, ethane, MAPD, propylene and propane molar fraction in the hydrocarbon mixture, which were used for the minimization, confirm the suitability of the fit.
Oxidative coupling of methane over a La2O3/CaO catalyst. Optimization of reaction conditions in a bubbling fluidized‐bed reactor
Authors: Mleczko L. , Pannek U. , Rothaemel M. , Baerns M.
Published: March 2009

Oxidative coupling of methane over a La2O3/CaO catalyst was investigated in laboratory‐scale fluidized‐bed reactors (ID = 5 and 7 cm) in the following range of reaction conditions: T = 700 – 880°C, P = 41 – 72 kPa and P = 6 – 29 kPa. The maximum C2+ selectivity and yield amounted to 73.8% (T = 800°C, X = 13.1%, Y = 9.7%) and 16.0% (T = 840°C, X = 34.0%, S = 47.2%), respectively. Axial gas concentration profiles revealed that C2+ selectivity was not only influenced by oxidative consecutive reactions, but also by steam reforming of ethylene. When diluting the catalytic bed (mcat = 145 g) with quartz (m = 200 and 400 g), a slight decrease of the selectivity (1–2%) was observed. The dilution of the feed gas with nitrogen only led to only a small increase (< 2%) of the C2+ selectivity.
Evaluation of the local composition model for VLE of binary mixtures of triethylene glycol with methane, water and benzene
Authors: Cartaya Eduardo , Harmon Steve , Starling Kenneth E.
Published: March 2009

This work evaluated the predictive accuracy of the local composition model (LCM) formulation developed by Li et al. (1986) for four binary, vapor‐liquid equilibria (VLE) mixtures. The four components comprising these mixtures were benzene, triethylene glycol (TEG), water and methane, while the mixtures examined in this work were the benzene‐TEG, water‐TEG, methane‐TEG and methane‐benzene systems. The Khan‐Chung‐Lee‐Starling (KCLS) equation of state developed by Chung et al. (1984) was used with the LCM to predict the VLE behavior of these systems. The accurate results obtained in this work may be applied to the design of natural gas dehydration processes.
Simultaneous evaluation of effective diffusion coefficients of the substrates in a biofilm with a novel experimental method
Authors: Beyenal Haluk , Tanyolaç Abdurrahman
Published: March 2009

In this study, a pure culture of Zoogloea ramigera was grown as a film on active carbon particles in a differential fluidized bed biofilm reactor (DFBBR) as a novel experimental system for the application of diffusion‐reaction models. The effective diffusion coefficients of the essential substrates; glucose, ammonium ion and oxygen in the active biofilm were simultaneously calculated. The values of effective diffusion coefficients in the active biofilm to those in water varied between 13–34, 48–96 and 28–48% for glucose, ammonium ion and oxygen, respectively, at different biofilm densities, which is in fair agreement with the literature.
Interfacial tension from the height and diameter of sessile drops and captive bubbles with an arbitrary contact angle
Authors: Prokop R. M. , Rio O. I. Del , Niyakan N. , Neumann A. W.
Published: March 2009

A method has been developed to calculate the interfacial tension of sessile drops and captive bubbles of arbitrary contact angle by measuring the drop diameter and vertical distance to the apex at arbitrary horizontal planes within the drop. The procedure works in theory for any contact angle with an accuracy on the order of 0.1%. However, practical limitations reduce the range of angles to roughly 50°–180° but do not restrict the range of interfacial tensions (at least 0.01 mJ/m2 to 72.0 mJ/m2). The optimal strategy is to use the method at several points on a single drop and to calculate the mean and standard deviation of the resulting interfacial tensions.
Population balance models of autonomous periodic dynamics in microbial cultures. Their use in process optimization
Authors: Hjortso Martin A.
Published: March 2009

Oscillations in continuous microbial cultures are well documented for baker's yeast. The oscillations can be modeled by unstructured population balance models in which a key cell cycle parameter, such as the division age, is a function of the substrate or product concentration.

The state variables of the periodic solutions exhibit average values different from those of steady state cultures. This suggests that oscillating cultures can be used to optimize microbial processes. Models analyzed here indicate that the possible improvements of oscillating cultures over steady state cultures are insignificant when the cultures are harvested continuously but not when harvested periodically.
Reactor performance and stability in an alternating reaction‐reheat paraffin dehydrogenation system
Authors: Ercan C. , Gartside R. J.
Published: March 2009

The classical fixed bed C3–C4 paraffin dehydrogenation process is a cyclic operation in which the reactor alternates between reaction and reheat cycles. During the reheat cycle, the necessary energy for the dehydrogenation reaction is stored in the fixed bed by passing hot air through it. In this established technology, both the hydrocarbon reactant and the reheat hot air are fed into the fixed bed from the same end (top) of the reactor. This is termed parallel flow (cocurrent) operation. An alternative feeding fixed bed has the hydrocarbon reactant and the reheat air entering from the opposite ends of the reactor. This is termed reverse flow (countercurrent) operation. This alternate creates an ideal temperature profile for an equilibrium limited endothermic reaction (rising temperature profile along the reactor). The transient flow behavior of both parallel and reverse flow reactors has been modelled and the dynamics of temperature profile development for both concepts have been analyzed. Based upon the model predictions, the characteristics as well as the reactor stability of the both concepts have been discussed.