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The IMPACT Principles: A Model of Interpersonal Communication for Law Enforcement
By Lieutenant Brian D. Fitch, Ph.D., Los Angeles County, California, Sheriff's Department; and Randolph Means, Partner, Thomas & Means, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Immediate Past Chair, IACP Legal Officers Section
aw enforcement officers are in the problem-solving business. Many of the problems that law enforcement officers confront are solved through effective communication. Not surprisingly, the more skilled officers are at interacting with the public and, in many cases, reducing emotional tension, the less likely they are to generate complaints or lawsuits, and the more effective and productive they will be.
This article offers public contact professionals an easy-to-follow formula for dealing with difficult people, soothing strong emotions, and managing conflict. While the examples are given between officers and citizens, the lessons apply to any contact such as police supervisor to subordinate, executives to boards.
The IMPACT model of interpersonal communication is built around six simple principles that can be applied to virtually any type of law enforcement contact:
While the order may vary, each dynamic is critical when dealing with difficult or angry people, managing conflict, and solving problems.
Identify and Manage Emotions
Most people view themselves as rational, relying mostly on evidence and logic to guide their decisions. However, everything we think, say, and do is influenced by emotion. In police work, it is not a question of whether strong emotions will emerge; rather, it is a question of how to handle these emotions when they do emerge. When experiencing high levels of emotional tension, otherwise reasonable people are often unwilling, and sometimes unable, to reason logically. In many cases, this is because the emotional brain (limbic system) has overridden, or "hijacked" the rational, thinking areas of the brain (neocortex) by activating the body's survival response.1 If an officer can decrease a person's emotional tension, the person will typically be more willing and able to listen to reason.
Three simple, effective techniques for decreasing emotional tension are acknowledging, asking questions, and paraphrasing.
Acknowledging: Acknowledgement is founded on the basic human need for recognition and acceptance. When an officer acknowledges a person's concerns and feelings, the person feels that the officer is trying to help and that the person has valid concerns and problems that matter. Recognizing a person's concerns as legitimate, together with an appropriate demonstration of empathy, is an important first step toward reducing emotional tension and reaching a constructive resolution.
Acknowledging a person's feelings and concerns does not necessarily mean that the officer agrees with them. Rather, it means that the officer recognizes these concerns as legitimate (at least to the other person) and, therefore, worthy of further discussion.
Asking Questions: The second technique, asking questions, is effective because it forces people to pause and reflect—in other words, to think. While the simple act of answering questions might not seem very difficult, it requires deliberate mental focus—an activity that forces people to engage the rational, thinking areas of the brain and to turn off the more primitive emotional centers.2 As a general rule, open, reflective questions—queries that require a narrative response—are more useful than simple, closed questions that can be answered with a one- or two-word reply. Questions like, "What happened next?" are generally more effective because they encourage people to think rather than to emote.
Paraphrasing: The final method, paraphrasing, involves demonstrating one's appreciation of what another person is saying. Paraphrasing allows an officer to acknowledge the other person's message, to check for understanding, and to correct any confusion. By repeating the message, the officer provides the person with an opportunity to listen to his or her own words. It also communicates that the person has been heard, making repetition less likely. Instead, the person can begin listening, focusing on the officer's message, and working reasonably toward a solution.
Master the Story
Henry Ford believed that empathy and perspective were key to success, saying, "If there is one key to success, it lies in the ability to see things from the other person's point of view." However, seeing things from another person's perspective is not as simple as it might appear. It requires an authentic desire to learn—that is, a willingness and openness to consider the situation, as well as the context—the thoughts, emotions, and other factors that led to it—from the unique perspective of the person most directly involved.
Often the most difficult aspect of mastering someone's story is overcoming the attributions, or theories, that we use to explain our own behaviors, as well as others' actions.
Social psychologists have identified two primary types of attributions: internal and external.3 Internal attribution focuses mostly on a person's character or personality to explain actions. For example, an officer sees a driver make an erratic lane change and almost strike another vehicle. When the officer stops the vehicle, the driver is abrupt with the officer, leaving the officer to conclude that the driver is nasty and inconsiderate.
In contrast, external attribution looks mostly to situational factors to explain someone's conduct. A driver changes lanes and almost hits another car, not because the driver is rude or selfish, but because the driver is from out of town, unfamiliar with the roads, or late for a critical appointment.
The natural human tendency to rely heavily on internal attributions to explain behavior—at the expense of external, situational factors—is so prevalent that it has been dubbed the "fundamental attribution error."4 Relying too heavily on internal attribution can be dangerous because it encourages hasty conclusions and stifles empathy. Too often, people assume that someone is behaving erratically because he or she is erratic—it is just part of their character or personality—when in reality any number of situational factors can be at work.
Because we are aware of the external factors that affect our own behavior, we tend to forgive ourselves more readily than we do others, whose motivations we do not understand.
While mastering the story requires officers to suspend their assumptions, ask questions, and listen carefully to the answers, it also requires that they pay attention to new information, especially when, viewed objectively, it contradicts their assumptions. This is not always easy to do, but it helps to remember that law enforcement is in the problem-solving and customer-service business. An officer who is annoyed by a stream of complaining people is akin to a physician who is irritated by a long line of sick patients. In the same way that good physicians ask questions and gather information before making a diagnosis, effective officers master the story before offering solutions.
Promote Positive Behavior
All human beings share a number of basic needs, including the desire to feel safe and to control their lives. Because these needs are fundamental, people will go to great lengths to protect them. When people feel threatened or controlled, they can act in negative, aggressive, and, in some cases, violent ways to reestablish a sense of safety and self-determination—a phenomenon that behavioral scientists have termed "reactance."5 For this reason, allowing people to think of something as their own decision or idea (even if it is not absolutely true) can be very useful.
Generally speaking, reactance produces three consequences: it makes people want to perform the forbidden action; it makes people take steps to reclaim their lost freedom; and it makes people feel negatively toward the person who restricted their choices.6 Officers who understand the basic human need for control can use it to their benefit by allowing people to feel as if they are making a voluntary decision to cooperate or comply, whether or not such choices actually exist.
Officers can also help people feel safe by reducing uncertainty, something that can often be accomplished by explaining their decisions and actions, as well as what to expect. The criminal justice system can be intimidating, especially for those who have never before been exposed to its many (sometimes subtle) complexities. Most people know little, if anything, about the policies, procedures, and laws that most officers take for granted.
Finally, officers should focus on separating problems from people.7 Nobody wants to feel stupid, inferior, or wrong. Questioning motives or judgment can threaten individual's self-esteem and trigger defensiveness and justifications. Officers can avoid such problems by refraining from any form of personal attack, insult, or patronizing behavior.
Rather than attacking someone's motives or intent (which, at best, the officer can only guess at), officers should concentrate on the person's objective conduct. For example, "So, you were driving northbound, did not see the red light, and struck the vehicle making a left turn" is more beneficial than stating, "Obviously you weren't paying attention because, if you were, you would have seen the red light." Focusing on objective behaviors and workable solutions is less likely to threaten a person's self-esteem or sense of control, and more likely to promote positive, cooperative behaviors.
Achieve Rapport
Humans tend to react impulsively to difficult situations and people. When confronted with an argumentative or demanding person, for example, some officers may either strike back ("fight fire with fire") or break off contact altogether. In the first case, if someone is rude or stubborn, the officer responds in kind, falling victim to the "norm of reciprocity"8 and hoping that a "dose of the same medicine" will persuade the person to change his or her attitude.
In the second case, rather than attempting to work through any differences, the officer simply walks away, avoiding the encounter altogether. While these techniques are sometimes effective in a sense, they tend to stifle communication, discourage rapport, and undermine potential cooperation.
Dale Carnegie's famous book How to Win Friends and Influence People and its basic tenets of achieving rapport and dealing with difficult people have not changed: avoid arguing, never criticize, and make people feel important.9
The first principle, avoid arguing, is a lesson that some people never learn. "You can never win an argument," wrote Carnegie, "because if you lose it, you lose it; and, if you win it, you lose it." Winning an argument comes at a cost—that is, it takes a toll. You may have proven yourself right, but you often hurt the other person's pride and cause embarrassment. Tarnishing someone's self-respect rarely creates positive change, but it often causes stubborn resistance and lasting resentment.
The second rule, never criticize, is also founded on the idea that nobody wants to feel stupid or inferior. As a general rule, criticism is counter-productive because it hurts people's pride and motivates them to defend their actions, regardless of how wrong they might have been. Since the early 1930s, behavioral psychologists have recognized that rewards are much more effective than punishment at shaping appropriate behaviors.10 People who are rewarded for performing the correct behaviors learn more rapidly and retain significantly more information than those who are punished for bad behavior. Even when people are clearly wrong, effective officers find ways to allow people to save face and to leave the transaction with their pride intact.
The third principle, make people feel important, is an outgrowth of the basic human need to feel special. It is often the need to feel special (important, successful) that motivates people to drive expensive cars, to wear designer clothes, and to buy homes that are much larger than they really need. According to Carnegie, most people are filled with ego, and "history sparkles with amusing examples of famous people struggling for a feeling of importance." Rather than challenging an ego, officers can significantly increase their influence by asking questions rather than demanding cooperation, complimenting people rather than criticizing them, and apologizing for any inconvenience, as appropriate.
Control Your Response
To effectively manage others' emotions, officers need to control their own responses. Officers who lose control endanger themselves and others. When dealing with a difficult or emotional person, officers can easily lose objectivity. If an uncooperative citizen makes a nasty comment and the officer responds in kind, the result is a counter-productive cycle of action and reaction that spirals downward until productive communication is no longer possible. While officers might win this battle, they lose the war in broader and more important ways.
The first step officers can take to control their emotional responses is to recognize that each problem really consists of two issues: one practical, the other emotional. 11 Practical issues represent the topic or subject of concern, for example, gaining the cooperation of a difficult motorist or taking a combative subject into custody.
The emotional issue, on the other hand, represents an officer's affective response to the practical problem, such as anger, frustration, or even fear. An officer's inability to separate practical problems from affective responses can lead to a host of difficulties. Too often, strong emotions can cloud the real issues and become the sole focus of an officer's attention—a response that makes the officer less safe and typically does little, if anything, to solve the actual problem.
Officers can learn to better control their emotions by paying closer attention to their word choice. Some cognitive psychologists believe that a person's emotional response is heavily influenced by word choice and language.12 We constantly talk to ourselves (self-talk) about our feelings and the words we choose can make us more or less upset.
In fact, the language a person uses to describe an event is believed to be one of the factors responsible for the different ways that people respond to the same occurrence. Rather than using strong, emotional language to describe their feelings—for example, "This guy is really pissing me off"—officers can select language with a cooler emotional tone, for example, "This guy's behavior is inconvenient, but no big deal."
Officers can also benefit by identifying their "hot buttons"—statements, comments, or actions by others that often anger them. Everyone has hot buttons, and part of managing one's emotions is recognizing these triggers. A better understanding of what is upsetting to them enables officers to develop and practice more suitable responses. In many cases, this can be accomplished by visualizing potentially difficult encounters along with proper responses, which can be rehearsed mentally in advance. Practicing correct responses, even if only in one's mind, can help reduce the chances of an officer becoming overly emotional when encountering a hot button in the field.
Finally, because emotions produce a number of physiological changes (increases in heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, muscle tension, and nervous energy), officers can learn to use these cues as a kind of early warning system. Once an officer recognizes these symptoms, measures to restore emotional equilibrium can be taken, such as modifying self-talk, breathing deeply, practicing relaxation, or briefly walking away to regain composure. By doing so, the officer will be better able to manage emotional responses and to avoid a negative emotional spiral.
Take Perspective
Perception is not a simple, straightforward process. Everyone makes choices—some conscious, some unconscious—about what to notice, how to make judgments, and how to see the world.13 Because of this, no two people see things in exactly the same way. In fact, there are often as many different views of an event as there are people who experience it. Too often, officers assume that others think as they think, see the world as they see it, and should behave in the same ways as they behave, given a similar set of circumstances.
The better officers understand another's perspective, the better able they are to communicate effectively with that person. Understanding another's perspective begins by acknowledging one's own assumptions and biases. Arguably the greatest single barrier to understanding is the tendency for people to believe that they see the world as it really is, and not that they see merely their perception of the world.14 Not only do people use their perspective to make sense of their own experiences, but also to interpret the behavior of others.
In addition, most people seldom, if ever, question the accuracy of their worldview or assumptions. Instead, they simply assume that their view is the correct view, and that other people, regardless of their experience, see the world in the same way—and, if they do not, they should.
Officers' worldviews, beliefs, and assumptions also influence their interactions with others. If an officer believes that someone is difficult or rude, the officer's assumptions will affect the communication with that person. The officer's assumptions may influence tone of voice or nonverbal communication in any number of subtle, yet perceptible ways that shape how people interpret the officer's behavior and, in turn, their response. If a person believes that an officer is rude or inconsiderate, that person is likely to respond discourteously, confirming the officer's initial assumption that the person is rude—a phenomenon referred to as a self-fulfilling prophecy.15 In other words, the officer believes a person is rude, treats the person as a rude individual, and, by doing so, causes the person to be rude.
Taking perspective requires an officer to suspend—as much as possible—any existing assumptions and beliefs, and replace them with a genuine desire to understand the other person's story. To accomplish this, officers need to ask appropriate open-ended questions and listen carefully to responses, not as a way of finding ammunition for disagreement, but with an authentic desire to understand. As the officer gradually learns more about the external factors that contributed to events, expressing interest in these events will, in many cases, motivate the person to share more.
Predictably, the more an officer listens and understands, the more the officer's influence increases, often allowing cooperation in situations where previously the officer had little control.
The importance of open-mindedness and tolerance in law enforcement cannot be overstated, especially in the United States. The United States is home to arguably the most ethnically diverse populace in the world, with many cities playing host to some of the largest ethnic populations outside of their native countries. Officers interact almost continuously with people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, customs, traditions, and norms. Open-mindedness and tolerance are keys to success in 21st century law enforcement. To better understand and appreciate others, officers should not only tolerate differences, but be eager to learn more about the exciting diversity of people, cultures, and ideas that make America great.
The IMPACT principles offer law enforcement professionals a model for dealing with difficult people, managing conflict, and solving problems. Although the model was presented in linear fashion, it is not a sequential process. When handling a difficult person, officers will usually be engaged in many steps of the process at the same time. For example, officers may be identifying and managing the person's emotions, controlling their own responses, and mastering the story while, simultaneously, promoting positive behavior and taking perspective. Whatever their order, the IMPACT principles offer law enforcement professionals a valuable tool for improving officers' safety while increasing their communicative effectiveness and problem-solving abilities. And that, regardless of how you look at it, is good for officers, their agencies, and the public. ■
1For a more complete discussion, see Daniel Goleman, Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ (New York: Bantam Books, 1995).2For a more detailed explanation, see, for example, Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, David Maxfield, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler, Influencer: The Power to Change Anything (New York: McGraw-Hill, 2008). 3See, for example, Fritz Heider, The Psychology of Interpersonal Relationships (New York: John Wiley, 1958).4For a detailed discussion, see Edward Jones and Richard Nisbett, The Actor and the Observer: Divergent Perceptions of the Causes of Behavior (New York: General Learning Press, 1971).5See Sharon Brehm and Jack Brehm, Psychological Reactance: A Theory of Freedom and Control (New York: Academic Press, 1981).6See, for example, Robert Cialdini, "The Science of Persuasion," Scientific American Mind 14 (January 2004): 70-77.7For a more complete discussion, see Roger Fisher and William Ury, Getting to Yes: Negotiating Agreement Without Giving In (Boston: Houghton Mifflin, 1981).8See Alvin W. Gouldner, "The Norm of Reciprocity: A Preliminary Statement," American Sociological Review 25 (1960): 161-178.9See Dale Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People (New York: Pocket Books, 1936).10For a more detailed discussion on rewards, see Alan Kazdin, Behavior Modification in Applied Settings, 6th ed. (Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, 2001).11For a more complete discussion of practical and emotional issues, see Lynn Clark, SOS Help for Emotions: Managing Anxiety, Anger and Depression (Kentucky: Parents Press, 1998).12For a more complete explanation of self-talk, see Albert Ellis and Arthur Lange, How to Keep People from Pushing your Buttons (New York: Citadel Press, 1995).13See, for example, Douglas Kenrick, Steven Neuberg, and Robert Cialdini, Social Psychology: Goals in Interaction, 4th ed. (Boston: Pearson, 2007).14For a more thorough discussion, see Steven Covey, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change (New York: Free Press, 1989).15See ,for example, Diane Halpern, Thought and Knowledge: An Introduction to Critical Thinking, 4th ed. (Mahwah, New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates, Inc., 2003).Author Brian Fitch is the lead subject matter expert for the IMPACT Project, a national consortium of law enforcement agencies and officials interested in the application of the IMPACT Principles to day-to-day police work through evaluation and assessment criteria, as well as training. His master's degree is in communication studies, his doctorate degree in human development. Author Randy Means is the founder of this now ten-year project and continues to oversee it. Comments and questions may be directed to Dr. Fitch at email@example.com and to Mr. Means at email@example.com
From The Police Chief, vol. LXXVI, no. 12, December 2009. Copyright held by the International Association of Chiefs of Police, 515 North Washington Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 USA.


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Home > Business Management > Knowledge and Content Management > Master Data Management > White Paper case studies
Company: Talend
| Category: Master Data Management
| Published: March 2011
In companies where internal and external data is constantly being merged to form operational data stores and data warehouses, it makes more sense to not only address data failures, but to proactively monitor data and report the current state of data quality back to the origin of the data.
This new data governance approach works on cross-functional problem solving and process improvement, not relegation of data management to IT.
The emerging technology of data quality dashboards are becoming more and more important. Organisations pull together data governance strategies and these tools to:
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Big Data | September 2014 | Analyst Report
Master Data Management | June 2014 | White Paper
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Cloud computing | February 2014 | White Paper
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Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry (v.99, #3)
Preface by Isabelle Beurroies; Jean Rouquerol (721-722).
Thermal transitions of polylactide false-twist textured multifilaments determined by DSC and TMA by A. M. Manich; J. Carilla; R. A. L. Miguel; J. M. Lucas; F. G. F. Franco; L. A. Montero; D. Cayuela (723-731).
A partially oriented melt-extruded PLA multifilament was false-twist textured to stabilize its structure. Conventional DSC analysis showed a relaxation peak at the end of glass transition. Simultaneous consideration of the TMA curve enabled us to evaluate both the relaxation and the cold crystallisation produced during the DSC scan. The periodic load applied during TMA experiments also enabled us to examine the evolution of Young's modulus along the glass transition, relaxation and cold crystallisation phenomena. Increases in Young's modulus and in enthalpy are related because of crystallisation. Texturing increased crystallinity and decreased cold crystallisation of PLA during the DSC scan.
Keywords: Crystallisation; False-twist texturing; Polylactide; Relaxation; Thermal transitions
Adsorption of organic pollutants over microporous solids investigated by microcalorimetry techniques by B. Dragoi; V. Rakic; E. Dumitriu; A. Auroux (733-740).
This work is focused on the gas and liquid-phase adsorption of pollutants: propanol, 2-butanone, phenol and nicotine onto zeolites (H-BETA, H-ZSM-5, H-MCM-22, and clinoptilolite). Textural properties and origin of zeolites were taken into account as criteria of adsorbents selection. The aldehyde and the ketone were adsorbed in the gas phase using microcalorimetry linked to a volumetric line to evaluate adsorption. Adsorptions in water were carried out for phenol and nicotine and the evolved heats during adsorption were measured by a differential heat flow reaction calorimeter with stirring. Results are discussed in relation with the pore sizes and various interactions which could occur between the adsorbent and the adsorbate.
Keywords: Adsorption; Depollution; Microcalorimetry; Organic pollutants; Zeolites
Effect of amyloid beta peptides Aβ1–28 and Aβ25–40 on model lipid membranes by Maksim Ionov; Barbara Klajnert; Konstantinos Gardikis; Sophia Hatziantoniou; Bartlomiej Palecz; Bakhtiyar Salakhutdinov; Josep Cladera; Maria Zamaraeva; Costas Demetzos; Maria Bryszewska (741-747).
To investigate the molecular interaction of amyloid beta peptides Aβ1–28 or Aβ25–40 with model lipid membranes differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and DPH and TMA DPH fluorescence anisotropy approaches were used. The main transition temperature (T m) and enthalpy change (ΔH) of model lipid membranes composed of DMPC/DPPG on addition of Aβ25–40 or Aβ25–40 at 10:1 (w/w) phospholipid/peptide ratio either non-aggregated or previously aggregated were examined. The effect of Aβ1–28 and Aβ25–40 on the membrane fluidity of liposomes made of DMPC/DPPG (98:2 w/w) was determined by fluorescence anisotropy of incorporated DPH and TMA DPH. The results of this study provide information that Aβ1–28 preferentially interacts with the hydrophilic part of the model membranes, while Aβ25–40 rather locates itself in the hydrophobic core of the bilayer where it reduces the order of the phospholipids packing.
Keywords: Amyloid beta peptides; DMPC membrane; DPH fluorescence anisotropy; DSC
Thermal behaviour of ammonium nitrate prills coated with limestone and dolomite powder by I. Rudjak; T. Kaljuvee; A. Trikkel; V. Mikli (749-754).
The thermal behaviour of ammonium nitrate (AN) and its prills coated with limestone and dolomite powder was studied on the basis of commercial fertilizer-grade AN and six Estonian limestone and dolomite samples. Coating of AN prills was carried out on a plate granulator and a saturated solution of AN was used as a binding agent. The mass of AN prills and coating material was calculated based on the mole ratio of AN/(CaO + MgO) = 2:1. Thermal behaviour of AN and its coated prills was studied using combined TG-DTA-FTIR equipment. The experiments were carried out under dynamic heating conditions up to 900 °C at the heating rate of 10 °C min−1 and for calculation of kinetic parameters, additionally, at 2, 5 and 20 °C min−1 in a stream of dry air. A model-free kinetic analysis approach based on the differential isoconversional method of Friedman was used to calculate the kinetic parameters. The results of TG-DTA-FTIR analyses and the variation of the value of activation energy E along the reaction progress α indicate the complex character of the decomposition of neat AN as well as of the interactions occurring at thermal treatment of AN prills coated with limestone and dolomite powder.
Keywords: Coated ammonium nitrate; Dolomite; Kinetics; Limestone; TG-DTA; Thermal stability
Thermal behaviour of melamine-modified urea–formaldehyde resins by Kadri Siimer; Tiit Kaljuvee; Tõnis Pehk; Ilmar Lasn (755-762).
Thermal behaviour of industrial UF resins modified by low level of melamine was followed by TG-DTA technique on the labsys TM instrument Setaram together with the 13C NMR analysis of resin structure and testing boards in current production at Estonian particleboard factory Pärnu Plaaditehas AS. DTA curve of UF resin which has been cocondensed during synthesis with even low level of melamine shows the shift of condensation exotherm and water evaporation endotherm to considerable higher temperatures. The effect of melamine monomer introduced to UF resin just before curing was compared. The effect of addition of urea as formaldehyde scavenger was studied.
Keywords: Curing; 13C NMR; Particleboards; TG-DTA analysis; Urea–formaldehyde modified resins
CO2 and SO2 uptake by oil shale ashes by Andres Trikkel; Merli Keelmann; Tiit Kaljuvee; Rein Kuusik (763-769).
In the present research, CO2 and SO2 binding ability of different oil shale ashes and the effect of pre-treatment (grinding, preceding calcination) of these ashes on their binding properties and kinetics was studied using thermogravimetric, SEM, X-ray, and energy dispersive X-ray analysis methods. It was shown that at 700 °C, 0.03–0.28 mmol of CO2 or 0.16–0.47 mmol of SO2 was bound by 100 mg of ash in 30 min. Pre-treatment conditions influenced remarkably binding parameters. Grinding decreased CO2 binding capacities, but enhanced SO2 binding in the case of fluidized bed ashes. Grinding of pulverized firing ashes increased binding parameters with both gases. Calcination at higher temperatures decreased binding parameters of both types of ashes with both gases studied. Clarification of this phenomenon was given. Kinetic analysis of the binding process was carried out, mechanism of the reactions and respective kinetic constants were determined. It was shown that the binding process with both gases was controlled by diffusion. Activation energies in the temperature interval of 500–700 °C for CO2 binding with circulating fluidized bed combustion ashes were in the range of 48–82 kJ mol−1, for SO2 binding 43–107 kJ mol−1. The effect of pre-treatment on the kinetic parameters was estimated.
Keywords: CFBC ashes; CO2 capture; Kinetics; Oil shale; SO2 capture
Calorimetric approach to metabolic carbon conversion efficiency in soils by N. Barros; J. Salgado; J. A. Rodríguez-Añón; J. Proupín; M. Villanueva; L. D. Hansen (771-777).
Soil carbon is the largest reservoir of organic carbon on the planet and CO2 production by soil thus has potentially large effects on atmospheric CO2. Carbon sequestration in soil is determined by the metabolic efficiency (substrate carbon conversion efficiency) of soil micro-organisms. That could be measured by calorespirometric methodology (parallel measurement of metabolic heat rate and CO2 production rate) and by theoretical thermodynamic models. Carbon conversion efficiency of the glucose degradation reaction in soil is calculated from both the calorespirometric ratio of heat rate to CO2 rate and from energy and mass balance models combined with calorimetric heat rates. Results obtained, 0.77 and 0.75, are in good agreement.
Keywords: Metabolic efficiency; Calorespirometry; Soils; Energy balance
Effect of different clay concentrations on crude oil combustion kinetics by thermogravimetry by M. V. Kok; A. S. Gundogar (779-783).
The objective of this research was to investigate the effect of different clay composition and concentrations on the thermal behaviour and kinetics of heavy crude oil in limestone matrix by thermogravimetry (TG/DTG). In TG/DTG experiments, three distinct reaction regions were identified in all of the crude oil + limestone mixture known as low temperature oxidation (LTO), fuel deposition (FD) and high temperature oxidation (HTO) respectively. Addition of clay to porous matrix significantly affected the reaction regions. Significant reduction of activation energy due to addition of clay to crude oil indicates the catalytic effect of clay on crude oil combustion.
Keywords: Clay; Crude oil; Thermogravimetry; Kinetics; Activation energy
A calorimetric study of the temperature effect on Calcium Phosphate precipitation by Anastasios I. Mitsionis; Tiverios C. Vaimakis (785-789).
The precipitation of calcium phosphate was studied using a heat flow twin calorimeter (C80, Setaram, France). The process was carried out using two identical membrane vessels. In the lower parts of both vessels 2 mL of a supersaturated solution (solution A) containing Ca(H2PO4)·2H2O (0.054 M) and CaCl2·H2O (0.125 M) with a molar ratio Ca/P = 1.67 were added. Then 0.05 mL of an ammonium solution (25% w/w) (solution B) and 0.05 mL of distilled water were transferred in the upper parts of sample and reference vessels, respectively. After temperature had been maintained at 303, 313, 323 and 333 K the membranes of both sample and reference vessels were broken simultaneously. The precipitation process also repeated with the same conditions for periods of 15, 60 and 120 min in a bath. The first two calorimetric curves (303, 313 K) show a single exothermic step during the process as a sharp peak in the initial stage. On the contrary at the experimental temperature of 323 K except of the sharp peak in the initial stage, a steadily exothermic tendency appears after 100 min time. In higher temperature (333 K) the sharp peak appears in the initial stage followed by a broad exothermic step between 75 and 320 min time. The XRD analyses show that the solids in the initial experimental stages are mainly consisted of dicalcium phosphate dihydrate (DCPD) for the lower temperature and a biphasic or triphasic system consisted of hydroxyapatite (HA), dicalcium phosphate anhydrous (DCPA) and octacalcium phosphate (OCP) for the rest temperatures. The XRD analyses show also that during the solution aging the initial products are transformed into the more stable thermal forms of HA and octacalcium phosphate (OCP).
Keywords: Calcium phosphate; Calorimeter; Hydroxyapatite
Modelling of the thermal effects involved in the determination of heat of mixing, using an ITC operating in continuous mode by M. Rodríguez de Rivera; F. Socorro; J. S. Matos (791-797).
A simplified RC model which simulates the operation mode of an isothermal titration calorimeter (ITC), when it is used in a continuous mode to determine heat of mixing, is proposed. The model takes into account several thermal effects that are evident in the mixing process and it must be identified and quantified to determine reliable values of heat of mixing. The main effects considered in the development of the model were those caused by: (i) the difference between the temperatures of the injected liquid and the mixture, (ii) the increase in heat capacity of the mixture and the thermal conductance of the couplings between the mixture and its surroundings and (iii) the changes in the power dissipated by stirring after injection. A good agreement between model and experimental results is observed.
Keywords: Calorimetric model; Calorimetric simulation; Excess molar enthalpies; Isothermal titration calorimeter
Development of a calorimetric sensor for medical application by F. Socorro; M. Rodríguez de Rivera (799-802).
A calorimetric sensor has been developed to measure the calorific dissipation through a determined area of the human body surface. An experimental laboratory prototype with a capturing surface of 36 cm2 has been built, and a functioning model suggesting an operational method that allows to determine the calorific power going through the sensor has been proposed.
Keywords: Calorimetric sensor; Calorimetric model; Medical calorimetry
A thermal study approach to roman age wall painting mortars by A. Duran; L. A. Perez-Maqueda; J. Poyato; J. L. Perez-Rodriguez (803-809).
Roman ancient mortars have been widely studied, in connection with both diagnosis and application required for restoring. Thermoanalytical experiments performed on mortars from Pompeii and Herculaneum provided a very good understanding of the technology employed. The mortars from Pompeii were obtained by the proper mixing of lime and marble grains while mortars of Herculaneum by lime and silicates compounds. The position of the endothermic peak of calcite decomposition showed important variations in the different samples studied, which was assigned to the different crystallinity and particle sizes. Experiments under CO2 flow confirmed the presence of magnesium calcium carbonates.
Keywords: Historic mortars; Lime; Marble; TG–DTG–DTA; Carbonates decomposition; CO2 flow
TGMS analysis of archaeological bone from burials of the late Roman period by T. Devièse; M. P. Colombini; M. Regert; B. H. Stuart; J. P. Guerbois (811-813).
The use of thermogravimetric analysis–mass spectrometry (TGMS) to study the state of preservation of archaeological bones has been investigated. As part of a collaborative multi-analytical study, bones exhumed from graves of the late Roman period in France and Italy were examined. A decrease in organic matter for the archaeological bones compared to that for new bone was confirmed, demonstrating that diagenesis of aged bones can be detected using TGMS. Different amounts of collagen were determined for bones from different graves and could, for the majority of specimens, be correlated with the visually observed preservation states.
Keywords: Archaeology; Bone; Collagen; TGMS
Thermal, spectral and antimicrobial study on some Cu(II) complexes with ligands bearing biguanide moieties by Rodica Olar; Mihaela Badea; Dana Marinescu; Emilia Elena Iorgulescu; Eliza Frunza; Veronica Lazar; Carmen Chifiriuc (815-821).
New complexes of type [Cu(HTBG)2]Cl2 (1), [Cu(TBG)2]·3H2O (2) and [CuL]·nH2O (3) L:L1, n = 2 and (4) L:L2, n = 1 (HTBG: 2-tolylbiguanide, L1 and L2: ligands resulted from 2-tolylbiguanide, ammonia/hydrazine and formaldehyde one pot condensation) were synthesised and characterised. The features of complexes have been assigned from microanalytical, IR and UV–Vis data. Redox behaviour was established by cyclic voltammetry. The in vitro qualitative and quantitative antimicrobial activity assays showed that the complexes exhibited variable antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive strains isolated from the hospital environment. The thermal analyses have evidenced the thermal intervals of stability and also the thermodynamic effects that accompany them. After water elimination, complexes have a similar thermal behaviour. Processes as water elimination, melting, chloride anion removal as well as oxidative degradation of the organic ligands were observed. The final product of decomposition was copper (II) oxide.
Keywords: Antimicrobial activity; Copper (II) complex; One pot condensation; Thermal behaviour; o-Tolylbiguanide
Thermal stability of new vanadyl complexes with flavonoid derivatives as potential insulin-mimetic agents by Mihaela Badea; Rodica Olar; Dana Marinescu; Valentina Uivarosi; Victoria Aldea; Teodor Octavian Nicolescu (823-827).
A series of new complexes of the type VO(OH)L·nH2O ((1) L: fisetin, n = 3; (2) L: quercetin, n = 2; (3) L: morin, n = 4) were synthesised and characterised by analytical as well as IR and electronic data. The modification evidenced in IR spectra was correlated with the presence of flavonoid as bidentate in all complexes. The electronic reflectance spectra showed the d–d transition characteristic for the square-pyramidal stereochemistry of vanadium (IV) ion. The thermal analysis (TG, DTA) in synthetic air flow elucidated the composition and also the number and nature of the water molecules. The TG curves show three well-separated thermal events. The first corresponds to the water loss at lower temperatures, which is followed by flavonoid derivative decomposition and pyrolysis at higher temperatures. The final product is vanadium (V) oxide.
Keywords: Flavonoid derivative; Vanadyl(IV) complex; Thermal stability
Thermal study of some new quinolone ruthenium(III) complexes with potential cytostatic activity by Mihaela Badea; Rodica Olar; Dana Marinescu; Valentina Uivarosi; Teodor Octavian Nicolescu; Daniela Iacob (829-834).
A series of new complexes with mixed ligands of the type RuL m (DMSO) n Cl3·xH2O ((1) L: oxolinic acid (oxo), m = 1, n = 0, x = 4; (2) L: pipemidic acid (pip), m = 2, n = 1, x = 2; (3) L: enoxacin (enx), m = 2, n = 1, x = 0; (4) L: levofloxacin (levofx), m = 2, n = 2, x = 8; DMSO: dimethylsulfoxide) were synthesized and characterized by chemical analysis, IR and electronic data. Except oxolinic acid that behaves as bidentate, the other ligands (quinolone derivatives and DMSO) act as unidentate. Electronic spectra are in accordance with an octahedral stereochemistry. The thermal analysis (TG, DTA) in synthetic air flow elucidated the composition and also the number and nature of both water and DMSO molecules. The TG curves show 3–5 well-separated thermal steps. The first corresponds to the water and/or DMSO loss at lower temperatures followed either by quinolone thermal decomposition or pyrolisys at higher temperatures. The final product is ruthenium(IV) oxide.
Keywords: DMSO; Quinolone; Ruthenium complex; Thermal behavior
On the lifetime prediction of old documents by N. Melniciuc-Puica; G. Lisa; I. Rusu (835-842).
The paper deals with the study of thermal degradation of some new and old paper supports. The experimental data allows the prediction of the dependence between the half time and the temperature at which the paper support must to be kept.
Keywords: Isoconversional method; Paper supports; Thermal degradation
Calorimetric study of the acidic character of V2O5–TiO2/SO4 2− catalysts used in methanol oxidation to dimethoxymethane by H. Zhao; S. Bennici; J. Shen; A. Auroux (843-847).
The surface acidic properties of sulfated vanadia–titania catalysts prepared by various methods were investigated by adsorption microcalorimetry, using ammonia as probe molecule. The acidic characteristics of the samples were shown to be strongly affected by the preparation method, calcination temperature, and sulfur content. The samples prepared by sol–gel and mechanical grinding exhibited higher acidity than co-precipitated samples. Moreover, increasing the calcination temperature of co-precipitated samples resulted in a decrease in surface area from 402 to 57 m2 g−1 and sulfur content from around 4 to 0.2 mass%, but up to a certain point generated a stronger acidity. The optimal calcination temperature appeared to be around 673 K.
Keywords: Acidity; Calorimetry; Dimethoxymethane; Methanol selective oxidation; V2O5–TiO2/SO4 2−
Study of acidic commercial WO x /ZrO2 catalysts by adsorption microcalorimetry and thermal analysis techniques by R. Kourieh; S. Bennici; A. Auroux (849-853).
In this work we report about the characterization of the acidic and redox properties of four different commercial tungstated zirconia catalysts with W loadings of about 12–13 mass%. The samples have been characterized in terms of their micro-structural and surface properties by BET, X-ray diffraction, temperature programmed reduction, elemental chemical analysis and adsorption microcalorimetry of NH3. Improved acidity has been detected upon addition of WO3 to zirconia and differences between the samples were pointed out thanks to the results obtained by the complementary physico-chemical techniques used in this study.
Keywords: Tungsten oxide; Zirconia supported catalysts; Surface acidity; Adsorption microcalorimetry
The effect of mechanochemical treatments of sepiolite with CsCl on the calcination products by Isaak Lapides; Shmuel Yariv (855-860).
Calcination of sepiolite and of two sepiolite/CsCl mixtures, unground and air-ground was investigated by thermo-XRD-analysis. At 200 °C sepiolite, neat, mixed or air-ground with CsCl lost interparticle and zeolitic water. The framework of sepiolite persisted during the dehydration but became defected, mainly in the air-ground mixture, less in the unground mixture and little in the neat clay. At 500 °C, with the loss of bound water, the neat clay was folded and transformed into sepiolite anhydride. In sepiolite/CsCl mixtures the dehydrated variety persisted but the degree of crystal-imperfection increased in the air-ground mixture more than in the unground mixture. At 700 °C the neat clay remained crystallized, but the CsCl mixtures became amorphous. Some crystalline dehydrated sepiolite or sepiolite anhydride persisted in the unground and air-ground CsCl mixtures, respectively. At 850 °C, the neat clay crystallized into protoenstatite with some enstatite and clinoenstatite. The amorphous fraction of sepiolite in the unground sepiolite/CsCl mixtures crystallized into pollucite and forsterite and the crystalline fraction was transformed into enstatite, protoenstatite, and clinoenstatite. In the air-ground mixture, the amorphous phase was transformed into pollucite with some forsterite and the crystalline fraction into enstatite.
Keywords: Cesium chloride; Clinoenstatite; Enstatite; Forsterite; Mechanochemistry of sepiolite; Pollucite; Protoenstatite; Thermo-XRD-analysis
Thermal properties of Australian sedimentary opals and Czech moldavites by P. S. Thomas; J. Šesták; K. Heide; E. Fueglein; P. Šimon (861-867).
The thermal properties are presented for a precious opal sourced from Coober Pedy, South Australia and a moldavite from Bohemia, Czech Republic whose origins differ significantly as opal is derived from the slow isothermal diagenesis of silica, while the tektites are specimens of vitreous silica formed from the terrestrial impact of asteroids. The differences between the two glassy silicates are presented through measurement of the TG–DSC, TMA and high-vacuum-hot-extraction DEGAS analysis.
Keywords: Amorphous Silica; DEGAS; Moldavite; Opal; TG–DSC; TMA
A study of storage conditions and treatments for forensic bone specimens using thermogravimetric analysis by S. Raja; P. S. Thomas; B. H. Stuart (869-872).
Bone provides an important source of forensic evidence. The storage conditions of bone have been recognised as a factor in maintaining the integrity of such evidence. Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) has been employed to examine the effects of storage environments and preparation methods on the structural properties of pig bones. A comparison of oven and freeze drying has been made to study the effect of storage conditions. A comparison has also been made of ground bone specimens with cut specimens. Freeze-dried hand ground specimens provided the most consistent results and, thus, this is the recommended method of preparation of bone specimens for TG analysis.
Keywords: Bone; Forensic; Thermogravimetric analysis
Use of thermal analysis in the study of soil Pb immobilization by Irena Wacławska; Magdalena Szumera (873-877).
Immobilization of lead contamination in soils by precipitation of non-assimilable for plants Pb-phosphate was considered. Glassy fertilizer of controlled release rate of the nutrients for plants as a source of phosphate anions was applied. Thermal analysis methods (TG/DTG/DTA) were used for the identification of components of Pb-precipitate, which being in statu nascendi have nonstoichiometric composition and disordered crystallographic structure difficult to identify by XRD method. Application of TA methods permits to demonstrate the negative role of Pb complexing citric acid solution simulating the natural soil conditions, which inhibits the Pb-phosphate of pyromorphite type formation.
Keywords: Soil environment protection; Pb immobilization; Thermal analysis (TG/DTG/DTA); Thermal decomposition
Influence of B2O3 on the structure and crystallization of soil active glasses by Magdalena Szumera; Irena Wacławska; Zbigniew Olejniczak (879-886).
Glasses of the SiO2–P2O5–K2O–MgO–CaO–B2O3 system acting as nutrients carriers in the soil environment were synthesised by the melt-quenching technique. Thermal properties were studied using DTA/DSC methods and the influence of B2O3 and P2O5 content on thermal stability and crystallization process of these glasses was examined. The structure of the glass network was characterized by FTIR, 31P, and 11B MAS NMR. The chemical activity of the glasses in the 2 mass% citric acid solution was measured by the ICP-AES method. The analysis indicated that the formation of P–O–B units with chemically stable tetrahedral borate groups decreases the glass solubility in conditions simulating the soil environment.
Keywords: Crystallization; Dissolution; Glass structure; Silicate–borophosphate glasses
Solid–liquid phase diagrams of binary mixtures by Luigi Campanella; Valentina Micieli; Mauro Tomassetti; Stefano Vecchio (887-892).
This study reports the investigation of three binary mixtures represented by acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) with its most important degradation product, salicylic acid (SA), and two of the most commonly used excipients (polyethylene glycol 4000 (PEG-4000) and d-mannitol (MA)). The liquidus and solidus equilibrium temperatures determined by DSC for pure components and solid binary mixtures at a fixed composition (mass fraction of ASA, w) were used to construct the corresponding solid–liquid phase diagrams. On the basis of the DSC results, the binary mixtures ASA/SA and ASA/PEG exhibit eutectic behavior (T eu = 155.0 ± 0.5 °C, w eu = 0.55 ± 0.02 and T eu = 53.3 ± 0.5 °C, w eu = 0.32 ± 0.01 ), respectively), while the binary mixture ASA/MA revealed the presence of a monotectic with a mean melting temperature of 162.2 °C in the range 0.2 < w 1 < 0.8. The composition of the two eutectics formed was confirmed by the related Tamman triangles. Finally, the liquidus curves of ASA/SA and ASA/PEG mixtures were also successfully predicted providing suitable polynomial (second-order) fitting equations.
Keywords: Acetylsalicylic acid; DSC; d-mannitol; Eutectic composition; PEG-4000; Phase diagrams; Salicylic acid; Second-order fitting equation
Thermal study of some new Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes with ligands derived from N,N-dimethylbiguanide as potential antimicrobials by Rodica Olar; Mihaela Badea; Dana Marinescu (893-898).
The reaction between [M(DMBG)2]·nH2O ((1) M:Ni, n = 0; (4) M:Cu, n = 1), ammonia/hydrazine and formaldehyde in methanol resulted in new complexes of type [ML]·nH2O ((2) M:Ni, L:L1, n = 0; (3) M:Ni, L:L2, n = 0, (5) M:Cu, L:L1, n = 0 and (6) M:Cu, L:L2, n = 3; HDMBG: N,N-dimethylbiguanide, L1 = ligand resulted from ammonia system and L2 = ligand resulted from hydrazine system). The features of complexes have been assigned from microanalytical, IR and UV–Vis data. The thermal transformations of compounds are complex processes according to TG and DTG curves including melting, phase transition, dehydration, oxidative condensation of –C=N– units as well as thermolysis processes. The final products of decomposition are the most stable metal oxides.
Keywords: Complex; N; N-dimethylbiguanide; One pot condensation; Thermal behaviour
Alternative biofuels by A. Arteconi; G. Di Nicola; M. Moglie; G. Santori; R. Stryjek (899-903).
This study presents the experimental results for the dimethyl ether (DME) + propane system obtained using the Burnett method. The apparatus was calibrated using helium. PVTx measurements were taken for four isotherms (344, 354, 364, and 375 K), performing 16 Burnett expansions in pressures ranging from about 3,000 to 70 kPa. The second and third virial coefficients were derived from experimental results. The experimental uncertainty in the second and third virial coefficients was estimated to be within ±5 cm3/mol and ±1,000 cm6/mol2, respectively.
Keywords: Biofuels; Burnett; DME; Propane; Thermophysical properties
Martensitic transformation in Mn–Ni–Sn Heusler alloys by R. Coll; L. Escoda; J. Saurina; J. L. Sánchez-Llamazares; B. Hernando; J. J. Suñol (905-909).
Three magnetic shape memory alloys: Mn50Ni50−x Sn x (x = 5, 7.5, and 10) were produced as bulk polycrystalline ingots by arc melting. The structural austenite–martensite transformation was checked by calorimetry. The transformation temperatures decrease as increasing the Sn content. The same trend is found in the entropy and enthalpy changes related to the transformation. The control of the valence electron by atom e/a determines the transformation temperatures range in this kind of alloys and it is possible to develop alloys that can be candidates in applications as sensors and actuators. Furthermore, X-ray diffraction was performed to check the crystalline structure at room temperature.
Keywords: Magnetic shape memory; DSC; Martensitic transformation
Effect of the soil uses on their thermal stability by J. Salgado; J. Proupín; M. Villanueva; J. A. Rodríguez-Añón; N. Barros (911-916).
Differential scanning calorimetry was applied to assess on seasonally soil organic matter changes. Soils were collected in two sites located in Viveiro (Galicia, Spain). One of them has been used as arable land and the other one was under pinewood. Soil samples were seasonally collected during a year. The heat of combustion and the ignition temperature of the soil organic matter were calculated by analyzing the thermograms obtained by differential scanning calorimetry. The shape and the maximum and end temperatures of the two exothermic peaks observed in the thermograms, yielded information about the relations between the labile and recalcitrant pools, and hence information about carbon stabilization degree in both soils.
Keywords: DSC; Heat of combustion; Recalcitrance; Soil organic matter; Soil quality
Thermal degradation and isoconversional kinetic analysis of light-cured dimethacrylate copolymers by Dimitris S. Achilias; Maria M. Karabela; Irini D. Sideridou (917-923).
Thermal degradation kinetics of copolymers based on bis-phenol A ethoxylated dimethacrylate (Bis-EMA) with triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA), and urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) with TEGDMA in wt/wt ratios 30/70, 50/50, or 70/30 were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis as a means to provide specific information regarding the internal structures of these resins. Thermogravimetric scans were taken at four different heating rates to perform an isoconversional analysis to determine the change of the effective activation energy as a function of conversion. A two-step degradation mechanism was found to occur in almost all copolymer compositions attributed to the existence of inhomogeneities in the macromolecular structure and the formation of weak links inside the polymeric network.
Keywords: Activation energy; Dimethacrylate copolymers; Thermal degradation; Thermogravimetric analysis
Vitrification and devitrification during the non-isothermal cure of a thermoset by I. Fraga; J. M. Hutchinson; S. Montserrat (925-929).
The processes of vitrification and devitrification that occur in an epoxy resin when it cures non-isothermally with a hardener are studied in terms of their frequency dependence and as a function of the heating rate. A novel modulated DSC technique, TOPEM, has been used which permits the evaluation of the frequency dependence for a single sample in a scan at constant underlying heating rate, thus avoiding errors arising from the composition of the sample. The effects of both frequency and heating rate on vitrification and devitrification are investigated. Some advantages of this technique are observed and discussed.
Keywords: Devitrification; Non-isothermal cure; Thermoset; TMDSC; TOPEM; Vitrification
Lanthanide complexes of 3-methoxy-salicylaldehyde by Christos Papadopoulos; Nikolaos Kantiranis; Stefano Vecchio; Maria Lalia-Kantouri (931-938).
The reaction of a lanthanide(III) nitrate (Ln = Pr, Nd, Gd, Dy, Er) with 3-methoxy-salicylaldehyde(3-OCH3-saloH), afforded neutral complexes of the general formula [Ln(3-OCH3-salo)3], which were characterized by means of elemental analysis, FT-IR spectra, TG-DTA curves, and magnetic measurements. The released products, due to the thermal decomposition were analyzed by on-line coupling MS spectrometer to the thermobalance in argon, allowed to prove the proposed decomposition stages. In order to confirm the stability scale provided on the basis of the onset decomposition temperature, a kinetic analysis of the three decomposition stages was made using the Kissinger equation, while the complex nature of the decomposition kinetics was revealed by the isoconvertional Ozawa–Flynn–Wall method.
Keywords: Lanthanide(III) complexes; 3-Methoxy-salicylaldehyde; Coupled TG-MS; Decomposition kinetics; TG/DTG–DTA; PXRD
Modernization and validation of an isoperibol rotating bomb calorimeter for the measurement of energies of combustion of sulphur compounds by Mohammed Ellaite; Didier Dalmazzone (939-945).
A rotating bomb calorimeter belonging to the Laboratory of Chemistry and Process Engineering (UCP) at ENSTA ParisTech since the 1960s was modernized and re-set in order of service for the measurement of heats of combustion of sulphur-containing compounds. The parts of the calorimeter that were replaced concerned essentially the thermal regulation, firing system and data acquisition, while most of the mechanical organs were found to work perfectly. The apparatus was tested extensively and calibrated using standard benzoic acid. The standard energy of combustion of thianthrene was measured to validate the operating protocol for sulphur compounds.
Keywords: Energy of combustion; Enthalpy of formation; Rotating bomb calorimetry; Sulphur compounds
Theoretical analysis of electronic and structural properties of anhydrous calcium oxalate by A. Koleżyński; A. Małecki (947-955).
The results of theoretical analysis of the electronic and crystal structural properties and bonding in relation to thermal decomposition process in anhydrous calcium oxalate are presented. The methods used in this analysis—topological analysis of electron density (Bader's Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules approach) obtained from DFT calculations performed by Wien2k package (Full Potential Linearized Augmented Plane Wave Method); bond order model (Cioslowski&Mixon), applied to topological properties of the electron density; as well as Brown's Bond Valence Model (bonds valences and strength', and bond and crystal strains, calculated from crystal structure and bonds lengths data) are described. The analysis of the obtained results shows that these methods allow us to explain the way of thermal decomposition process of anhydrous calcium oxalate to calcium carbonate as a decomposition product, and to describe the structural transition taking place during such process (from monoclinic anhydrous CaC2O4 to rhombohedral calcite structure). In the light of the results of our similar calculations performed previously for other anhydrous oxalates (zinc, cadmium silver, cobalt, and mercury) the proposed theoretical approach can be considered as promising and reliable tool, which allow analyzing the properties of the structure and bonding and hence predicting the most probable way of thermal decomposition process for given crystal structure.
Keywords: Bond order; Bond strength; Bond valence; Electron density topology; FP-LAPW DFT calculations; Thermal decomposition of oxalates
Thermal stability of metastable nano-composites in planar flow cast Ti–Zr–Ni alloys by Emília Illeková; Helene Lefaix; Frederic Prima; Dušan Janičkovič; Peter Švec (957-963).
The influence of the solidification rate, the thermal stability, and devitrification process of the rapidly solidified Ti45Zr38Ni17 alloy have been examined on ribbons prepared by the planar flow casting method. Differential scanning calorimetry in the continuous heating mode, X-ray diffraction, and electron microscopy techniques were applied. Comparison of the so-obtained microstructures revealed the competition between icosahedral quasi-crystalline and β-Ti(Zr) phases, both dispersed in an amorphous matrix. It has been found that the decomposition process of rapidly quenched ribbons consists of the sequence of several independent exothermic and endothermic reactions involving the additional precipitation of quasi-crystalline nanoparticles and both irreversible and reversible changes between the unstable high-temperature β and stable low-temperature α phases. The formation of the intermetallics as well as the transformation of quasi-crystals into Laves phase has been observed at higher temperatures in all ribbons.
Keywords: Amorphous phase; Kinetics; Quasi-crystals; Rapid solidification; Thermal stability; Ti–Zr–Ni alloy
Characterization of gold supported on Al2O3–CuO–Mn2O3 catalysts obtained by thermal decomposition of aerosols by Barbara Małecka; Maria Rajska (965-971).
Gold (~1%) has been supported on the mixed oxides Al2O3–CuO–Mn2O3 with molar compositions 1:1:1, 1:0.7:0.3, 1:0.3:0.7, prepared by spray pyrolysis method. The supports and catalysts have been characterized by TG, DTA, N2 physisorption, XRD, SEM, and TEM methods and tested for CO oxidation (25–300 °C). The catalysts revealed high specific surface area and amorphous form for compositions 1:0.7:0.3 and 1:0.3:0.7. Gold deposited on the supports lowered the T 50 values by 50–80 °C. The highest CO conversion was obtained for 1:1:1 composition.
Keywords: TG; DTA; Spray pyrolysis; Gold catalysts; Transition metal oxides; Oxidation of CO
Thermooxidative stabilization of a MDI by Titus Vlase; Constantin Bolcu; Gabriela Vlase; Alin Mogoş; Nicolae Doca (973-979).
Samples of flexible PU foam were prepared from a polyol (Elastoflex W 5516/115) and an isocyanate prepolymer (Iso 145/8), both commercial Elastogram products. For the thermooxidative stabilization, two phenolic compounds were used, separately or in mixture. These compounds were: 2,6-di-t-butyl-4-methyl-phenol (non-reactive) (AO-1), 3,5-di-t-butyl-4-hydroxy-benzyl alcohol (reactive, AO-2), used in total mass% of 0.3/1.5. The TG/DTG/DTA curves were drawn up in dynamic air, with a heating rate of 10 °C min−1, until 500 °C. For the unstabilized sample a single thermodegradative TG step, with a maximum rate at 268–270 °C was observed, whereas for the stabilized samples, supplementary steps at higher temperature were observed. The changes in the TG/DTG/DTA parameters are not in a single relationship with the mass% of the stabilizator, due to the following: AO-1 is easily migrated out from PV, especially, at higher concentrations. AO-2 had positive effect at all studied concentrations. But the most remarkable effect is the synergetic effect of a 1:1 mixture of AO-1 and AO-2.
Keywords: Thermal stability; Thermal analysis; Stabilized polyol polyisocyanate
Agricultural valorisation of de-inking paper sludge as organic amendment in different soils by Sandra Barriga; Ana Méndez; Joaquín Cámara; Francisca Guerrero; Gabriel Gascó (981-986).
The objective of this study is to study the influence of de-inking paper sludge (DPS) and sewage sludge (SL) mixtures addition at different rates (2, 4 and 8%) in two soils. Incubation experiments were performed during 60 days and the influence of treatments in physical soil properties was determined by soil porosity and stability of aggregates. Differential thermal analysis (DTA) of amended soils after incubation was performed. Experimental results show that amendment increased biological soil activity, soil porosity and stability of aggregates. DTA analysis shows that the first exothermic peak generally increases with the dosage of DPS:SL due to the addition of immature organic matter. Moreover, the second peak enlarges probably due to the humification process during incubation.
Keywords: De-inking paper sludge; Agricultural valorisation; Thermal analysis
Thermal behaviour of cephalexin in different mixtures by Adriana Fuliaş; Titus Vlase; Gabriela Vlase; Nicolae Doca (987-992).
The thermoanalytical curves (TA), i.e. TG, DTG and DTA for pure cephalexin and its mixtures with talc, magnesium stearate, starch and microcrystalline cellulose, respectively, were drawn up in air and nitrogen at a heating rate of 10 °C min−1. The thermal degradation was discussed on the basis of EGA data obtained for a heating rate of 20 °C min−1. Until 250 °C, the TA curves are similar for all mixtures, up this some peculiarities depending on the additive appears. These certify that between the pure cephalosporin and the excipients do not exists any interaction until 250 °C. A kinetic analysis was performed using the TG/DTG data in air for the first step of cephalexin decomposition at four heating rates: 5, 7, 10 and 12 °C min−1. The data processing strategy was based on a differential method (Friedman), an integral method (Flynn–Wall–Ozawa) and a nonparametric kinetic method (NPK). This last one allowed an intrinsic separation of the temperature, respective conversion dependence on the reaction rate and less speculative discussions on the kinetic model. All there methods had furnished very near values of the activation energy, this being an argument for a single thermooxidative degradation at the beginning (192–200 °C).
Keywords: Cephalexin; Thermal stability; Kinetic parameters; NPK method
Removal of malachite green by adsorbents from paper industry waste materials by Ana Méndez; Sandra Barriga; Antonio Saa; Gabriel Gascó (993-998).
The objective of this work is to study the removal of malachite green (MG) from water by adsorbents obtained from pyrolysis of two paper industry waste materials: one de-inking paper sludge (HP) and one organic sludge from virgin pulp mill (RT). Both adsorbents showed elevated MG removal. Maximum adsorption Q 0 obtained by Langmuir equation was higher for the adsorbent from HP (HP-3, 982 mg/g) than RT (RT-3, 435 mg/g). However, K L (Langmuir) and 1/n (Freundlich) indicated that affinity and intensity of adsorption is higher for the adsorbents from RT. Thermal analysis (TG, DTG and DTA) of adsorbents before and after MG removal was performed in N2 atmosphere.
Keywords: De-inking; Sludge; Malachite green; Thermal analysis
Study by DTA/TG of the formation of calcium aluminate obtained from an aluminium hazardous waste by A. López-Delgado; F. A. López; L. Gonzalo-Delgado; S. López-Andrés; F. J. Alguacil (999-1004).
A Spanish hazardous waste from tertiary aluminium industry was used as a raw material for the synthesis of calcium aluminate. An amorphous precursor was obtained by a hydrothermal method at different values of pH. The transformation of the precursor in a crystalline aluminate was followed by TG/DTA up to 1300 °C. At temperatures between 719 and 744 °C, the precursors evolve towards the formation of C12A7 which becomes CA at circa 1016 °C. Mass spectrometry coupled to thermal analyser allowed the identification of the decomposition products.
Keywords: Aluminium waste; Calcium aluminate; TG/DTA
Soot oxidation kinetics from TG experiments by Maria Kalogirou; Zissis Samaras (1005-1010).
Thermogravimetric analysis (TG) has been used extensively for soot oxidation studies. Its known experimental and computational difficulties, however, have led to extended criticism concerning the reliability of the extracted kinetics and their potential for reliable reaction modelling. This study explores if TG kinetics could lead to successful simulation results notwithstanding the related disputes. For this, TG and mini-scale soot oxidation experiments with oxygen (O2) were conducted. The TG kinetics reliability was controlled through comparison with the corresponding mini-scale results and by the satisfactory simulation of the mini-scale experiments.
Keywords: Kinetics; Modelling; Oxidation; Soot; TG
Thermal characterization of usnic acid/collagen-based films by Paula Santos Nunes; Marília Santos Bezerra; L. P. Costa; Juliana Cordeiro Cardoso; R. L. C. Albuquerque Jr.; M. O. Rodrigues; Gabriela Borin Barin; Francilene Amaral da Silva; A. A. S. Araújo (1011-1014).
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the physical–chemical properties of collagen (CL) and usnic acid/collagen-based (UAC) films, using differential thermal analysis (DTA), thermogravimetry (TG/DTG), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Both films were prepared by casting process using polyethylene glycol 1500 (PEG 1500) as plasticizer. In the spectrum of UAC, similar bands of the usnic acid are observed, indicating that the polymerization (film formation) did not affect the stability of the drug. Distinctly, DTA curve of UAC did not show an endothermic peak at 201 °C, indicative that the drug was incorporated into the polymeric system. These results were corroborated by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The TG/DTG curves of UAC presented a different thermal decomposition profile compared to the individual compounds and CL. These findings suggest the occurrence of molecular dispersion or solubilization of the drug in the collagen film.
Keywords: Casting; Biodegradable films; Usnic acid; Collagen; Thermal characterization
Calorimetric study of nitro group/solvent interactions by Silvia Porcedda; D. Falconieri; B. Marongiu; Alessandra Piras (1015-1023).
A flow microcalorimeter, model 2277-LKB, has been used to determine excess enthalpies, H E, at 298.15 K, for liquid mixtures containing 1-nitrobutane or 1-nitropentane or 1-nitrohexane + benzene or + tetrachloromethane. The experimental results, taken from literature, concerning thermodynamic properties of nitroalkanes + benzene or + tetrachloromethane mixtures have been interpreted in terms of the DISQUAC group contribution model. Two sets of structure-dependent interaction parameters for the nitro group/benzene and for the nitro group/tetrachloromethane contacts have been obtained. The model provides a fairly consistent description of the excess functions, G E and H E and of activity coefficients at infinite dilution, γ i ∞ .
Keywords: Benzene; DISQUAC model; Experimental excess enthalpies; Nitroalkanes; Tetrachloromethane


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The Relative World
Really, how relative is the world we live in. Standards and customs vary from one culture to another and from one time to another.
There is a group of native people I saw on the National Geographic Society channel who have a thick piece of wood piercing through beneath their lower lip. The wood pulls their lower lip way down. This is how it is in their society. To them it must be natural and beautiful. To us, it would be abhorrent.
I saw a little review of musicals in the 30's. The modern day commentator called the chorus girls chubby. They were not chubby. They just weren't the skinny skinny chorus girls demanded today.
A decorating show called House Hunters shows people going through a house they are looking at with the intention to buy. Time after time, the properties have five bedrooms and three baths, and the potential buyers get stuck on the fact that the master -- meaning master bedroom -- is too small.
In other parts of the world -- and to many in America too, including me -- this is ridiculous.
If you remember, Peace Pilgrim who walked across the United States in the name of peace by herself and in trust and gratitude to God, was elated to find a cardboard box to sleep in under a bridge and so not freeze to death.
We all live in the same Universe, and yet there are cultures within cultures, and how different are the worlds we live in.
And that's the relative for you.


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This hasn't been the prettiest season for the Miami Dolphins. However, it has been much better than many pundits and fans expected.
When Joe Philbin named Ryan Tannehill the starter, few believed the team would be successful, let alone compete for a playoff spot. But the rookie signal-caller answered the call and took his team to new heights. Bolstered by one of the top defensive fronts in the league and a solid running game, the future looks bright in Miami.
They also have some glaring weaknesses, particularly at cornerback and wide receiver. Shoring up these units will most certainly make the Dolphins a playoff contender for next year.
Here's a look at some of the building blocks the Dolphins have in place that will allow them to rebound from what could be a losing season or an 8-8 record, depending on the results of their last two games against the Buffalo Bills and New England Patriots.


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All systems are go for a hydroplane-racing spectacular on the Delaware River this weekend.
At least eight unlimited hydroplanes - capable of speeds up to 200 m.p.h. - will compete for $125,000 in prizes on a two-mile oval course between Penn's Landing and Camden's Wiggins Waterfront Park as the highlight of the three- day event.
Time trials will be held today, elimination heats tomorrow and the finals Sunday.
The public can watch the racing from either side of the river, with a general-admission charge of $5 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and a grandstand admission charge of $10. Entry to the pits, near Wiggins Waterfront Park, will be $5. The event will benefit the Multiple Sclerosis Society.


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Created in this Craftsy class
Hand-Stitched Collage Quilts taught by Laura Wasilowski
Step away from your sewing machine and cut straight (or wonky) to the fun of creating fused art quilts with hand-stitched embellishments. Laura Wasilowski will show you how!
Other projects made as part of this class:
QuiltingNuthouse #2
QuiltingVillage Scene
QuiltingThe House on the Hill
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The stitchery is wonderful! I especially like the fields. You've added your own touch to the design.
05/14/2013 Flag
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I like your piece. The bird is very festive and I like your stitching. good job!
07/06/2013 Flag


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WATCH: Garrick McGee a splash offensive coordinator hire for Illini, Lovie
Illini Inquirer Top Stories
Werner Mailbag: Sept. 25Illini Inquirer publisher Jeremy Werner answers premium members' questions about the road ahead for Illini football and basketball
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Meet 2019 ATH Jacardia WrightSmall school or not, 2019 athlete Jacardia Wright is turning heads already in a big way. Get to know the Decatur (IL) Saint Teresa prospect here.
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Arrested: Suspect for Theft From Carto's Funeral Home in the 1st District
The Philadelphia Police Department would like to thank the public and the media for assisting us in the arrest of the suspect for a theft that occurred at Carto's Funeral home located at 2212 South Broad Street, January 11, 2011. On January 26, 2011, at 1:25am, an anonymous tip was made identifying John Mancuso as the suspect . John Mancuso was arrested without incident.
John Mancuso is 50 years-of-age and is from the 800 block of Porter Street. Mancuso will be charged with theft and related charges.
Lt. Raymond J. Evers
Office of Media Relations
[email protected]


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Program/Unit Review Guidelines – Name of Department/Unit
In early 1998 President Schwab authorized the implementation of a periodic review of each of the academic or administrative units of the College and so notified department chairs and administrators. Your unit is scheduled to conduct a review during the coming year with submission of a report to the Provost by June 1, 2007. Please submit the report in both hard copy and an electronic version. While I have outlined the general content of the report below, please schedule an appointment with David Hoaas, Associate Provost, to discuss in greater detail procedural matters and expected outcomes. In addition, I would ask that by January 12, 2007 (or spring of year stated) you submit to the Institutional Effectiveness Committee, care of the Provost's Office, an overview of the material you will be including in Roman numerials I – III shown below. Let me thank you in advance for your commitment to ensuring the quality of the College's academic programs.
Program Review*
I. Purpose Statement (Date last revised)
Following the department's purpose statement should be a brief narrative clarifying the links between it and the College's purpose statement.
II. Goals and Objectives
The primary goals of the department should be expressed in terms of student learning outcomes (for administrative units, goals should be expressed in terms of student and college services). When possible these goals should be broken down into the two to three objectives that must be achieved to reach each of the broader goals of the department. Goals and/or objectives ought to allow for the collection of quantitative as well as qualitative supporting data.
III. Methods of Assessment
The degree to which the department is achieving its primary goals must be determined by multiple methods of assessment (e.g., field tests, surveys, embedded assessment instruments, focus groups, portfolios, admission rates into graduate programs, or evaluations from employers of Centenary graduates).
IV. Assessment Findings
A summary of the extent to which the educational goals of the department are being achieved and the assessment data that support the summary.
V. Action Plan
Includes actions taken, currently being undertaken, and being planned by the department to address any differences between goals and current outcomes. These actions may relate to course content, course offerings, major/minor requirements, instructional methods or technology.
* Participation of all full time and continuing part time faculty in the review is expected.
Last updated March 10, 2008.


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1. I don't exactly know what the "meme tree" is or how it works, but I know cool when I see it. And the name just has a nice pre-post-holiday ring to it. Happy meme tree.
2. Even though it makes Anne Linehan throw lighted bags of poo at carolers when she hears it — I'm on "Wait, Wait … Don't Tell Me" tomorrow (Sat) at 10 a.m. on KUHF 88.7 FM. It was an especially delightful taping. Even if you can't stand me, who doesn't love Carl? No one, that's who. He gets mash notes from Jacob Marley.
3. Nothing says holiday to me like a little lamprey news. You can love pandas and penguins, but you gotta respeck the lamprey.


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Acer Aspire V5-571P-6499
Average of 5 scores (from 5 reviews)
Reviews for the Acer Aspire V5-571P-6499
Touch on a budget. Acer's touchscreen-equipped Aspire V5-571P-6499 is a slim and affordable, yet stylish 15.6-inch notebook featuring a low-voltage Intel Core i5 processor, a 500GB conventional hard drive, and 4GB RAM. Is the touchscreen enough to differentiate this otherwise mainstream notebook from its competition?
Source: Notebooks.com
Do proper diligence and study whether a Windows 8 computer will fit your workflow. Acer offers an acceptable machine for people who know they want the new OS and can't afford one of the great new Windows 8 ultabooks we saw at CES 2013, like the HP EliteBook Resolve or the Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11S. Right now the Microsoft online store offers this machine at a great price of $599.99. That seems like the right price and makes it easy to recommend, so long a the buyer knows they're getting a budget touchscreen laptop. Otherwise Amazon sells it for $699.99, which makes the decision tougher. For only $100 more users will get a better experience with the smaller 11-inch Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga 11S with swiveling display that works in a tablet mode.
Single Review, online available, Short, Date: 07/24/2013
Source: Computer Shopper
For the past few years we've been impressed by Acer's 15-inch Aspire laptops—not for their looks, but for their ability to deliver above-average performance and features for a budget price.A thrifty price and big, responsive touch screen make the Acer Aspire V5-571P-6499 a pleasant way to make your acquaintance with Windows 8. It's also surprisingly slim for a 15-inch budget notebook, but miscellaneous gripes keep it from perfection.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 12/31/2012
Rating: Total score: 80%
Source: PC World
The Acer Aspire V5 is a pretty sleek laptop at first glance. But don't be fooled by its silky-smooth silver exterior – there's not a whole lot going on inside this laptop. Sure, it's got its strengths: the touchscreen is responsive and smooth, and video looks and sounds pretty good. But it's got a heck of a lot more weaknesses, such as poor overall performance, lower-than-average battery life, a strangely loud fan, and a noticeably low screen resolution.
Single Review, online available, Very Short, Date: 12/10/2012
Rating: Total score: 50%
Source: Laptop Mag
In many ways the Acer Aspire V5-571P-6499 is a satisfying Windows 8 notebook, combining an accurate touch screen, good performance and robust audio. Still, with an anemic battery life of just over 4 hours, you won't want to leave home without the power brick. (Fortunately, you likely won't be traveling much with this 15-inch system.) Another strike against the V5-571P is its wonky touchpad, which had some trouble with Widows 8 gestures.
Single Review, online available, Long, Date: 11/26/2012
Rating: Total score: 50%
Source: CNet
After starting with high-end proof-of-concept models such as the Acer Aspire S7 and Lenovo IdeaPad Yoga, touch screens are moving into mainstream Windows 8 laptops. For under $700, the Acer Aspire V5 proves that a touch screen can work in a budget-priced Windows 8 laptop without cutting too many corners.
Single Review, online available, Medium, Date: 11/16/2012
Rating: Total score: 70% performance: 80% mobility: 50%
The Aspire V5 has a plastics body and is slimmer and with 2 kg also lighter than the competition. Acer has targeted users looking for a portable machine. In many aspects, this device is average in its class and does not stand out. The 15.6 inch capacitive touchscreen features a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels and supports 10-point inputs, which is perfect for the pre-installed Windows 8. Colors are bright and crisp, and the viewing angles leave nothing to complain about. The full-sized chiclet keyboard with number pad offers a decent typing experience. In addition, it comes with an extra- large clickable touchpad with support for Windows 8 gestures.
Inside the Aspire V5 there is a 750GB hard drive, which is a decent amount of storage, and a 1.8GHz Intel Core i3-3217U ULV dual core processor. The performance is sufficient when compared to competitors of the same price range. It can handle light multimedia tasks easily, but is not suitable for hardcore gaming. But, casual social games are not a problem. Considering how thin and light the build is, battery life is a concern. Unfortunately, the Acer Aspire V5 fares much, much worse than the competition here. Overall, this is a good looking, well designed machine for an affordable price. Battery life is its main shortcoming, but if that's not an issue, the Acer Aspire V5 is great value.
Intel HD Graphics 4000: Processor graphics card in the high end Ivy Bridge models. Offers a different clock speed in the different CPU models (ULV to desktop quad core) and therefore a different performance.
Non demanding games should be playable with these graphics cards.
» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Graphics Cards and the corresponding Benchmark List.
3317U: Ivy-Bridge-based ULV-CPU in Q2 2012. Offers a core clock of 1.7 - 2.6 GHz and an HD 4000 GPU (350 - 1050 MHz). The TDP is rated at 17 W.» Further information can be found in our Comparison of Mobile Processsors.
15-16 inch is a standard display size for laptops and offers the biggest variety of products.» To find out how fine a display is, see our DPI List.
2.4 kg:
Usually subnotebooks, ultrabooks and quite lightweight laptops with 12-16 inch display-diagonal weigh as much.
Acer: Acer Incorporated is a Taiwanese multinational electronics manufacturer. Its product lineup includes desktops and laptops, as well as personal digital assistants (PDAs), servers and storage, displays, peripherals, and e-business services for business, government, education, and home users. Acer is the third largest computer manufacturer in the world (by sales) after HP and Dell Inc (2007). The company owns the largest franchised computer retail chain in Taipei, Taiwan. Originally named Multitech, it was founded in 1976. Gateway and Packard Bell are economically connected with Acer. Market share regarding sales of personal computers in 2007 (market research IDC): HP 18.9 %, Dell 16.4 %, Acer 9.9 %, Lenovo 7.5 %, Apple 5.7 %
65.6%: This rating is bad. Most notebooks are better rated. This is not a recommendation for purchase.
» Further information can be found in our Notebook Purchase Guide.


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Accessing your Booking
1- Entering your name:
Your last name needs to be entered exactly as it appears in the reservation.
2- Entering your reservation number:
You will find your reservation number on your ticket or on the confirmation provided by your agent. It is sometimes referred to as "PNR" or "Record Locator". The reservation number is a 6 digit alphanumeric code, ie. it contains letters and numbers. You will only need to enter these 6 digits . It does not make a difference for My Booking whether you enter it in upper or lower case.


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Want a healthy, nutritious, and just plain delicious alternative to milkshakes? A strawberry smoothie is the way to go! It might taste decadent, but a strawberry smoothie is loaded with vitamin C, calcium, and other good stuff. Watch this video for tips on making strawberry smoothies for quick breakfasts, as rewards after a tough workout, simple snacks before dinner, or healthy desserts that are never fussy. You'll be surprised just how fast and easy they are to make. Find more recipes for smoothies, and check out our favorite smoothies.
I saw they used 2c milk, around 20 berries, and a whole container of yogurt.
This video is useless without the recipes :/
Please post the recipe.


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Summer Crafts for Kids
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4th of July Tea Light, Glow Stick or Sparkler Holder
By: Cathie Filian and Steve Piacenza for Plaid
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The project was added to your Craft Projects.
Click here to view your Craft Projects.
Unlike most craft projects, this 4th of July project from Cathie & Steve is very versatile. When completed you can use it as a tea light, a glow stick, or even a sparkler holder. Your kids will love playing with this craft project on 4th of July, or any summer night.
- 2772 - FolkArt ® Extreme Glitter™ - Silver, 5 oz.
- CS11205 - Mod Podge ® Gloss, 4 oz.
- Glass cylinder
- Wax paper
- Foam Paintbrush
- Red; white and blue printed fabrics
- Decorative trim
- Chipboard letters: P-O-P
- Detail paintbrush
- Hot Glue
- 3 Felt Stars
- Measure around the cylinder, add a ½" to the height and width measurements. Trim the fabric to the measurement. Place the fabric on a piece of wax paper and coat with Mod Podge. Wrap the wet fabric around the cylinder, lining up the top with the top edge, wrapping the additional ½" around the base and overlapping the side seam. Place upside down to dry.
- Once dry, hot glue decorative trim around the top edge.
- Add extreme glitter to the chipboard letters with a detail paintbrush. Allow to dry. Hot glue the felt stars to the cylinder. Hot glue the glittered letters to spell POP.
- Optional details: add rows trim along the top or base or hot glue a few simple flowers and rhinestones to the cylinder.
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text: Topic Archive: Awards 6 Wacky Trophies From Events Need to spice up an annual award show? Looking for something eye-catching that honorees will share on social media? Here's a look at some of the weirdest keepsakes events have given to winners. Idea File Posted July 26, 2013, 2:19 PM EDT The Week in Events: 'Playboy' New Year's Eve Party, Golden Globes Preview, Justin Bieber Pre-Concert Reception News Posted January 6, 2012, 8:26 AM EST Chicago's Top 100 Events of 2011 Top 100 Posted December 30, 2011, 10:00 AM EST South Florida's Top 100 Events of 2011 These annual gatherings make a big impact on their respective industries and communities (and on the city) while innovating to stay on top. The Scout Posted December 28, 2011, 9:40 AM EST Women's Film and Television Awards Move to Toronto, Change Format Event Report Posted December 13, 2011, 10:00 AM EST Kennedy Center Honors Follows Star-Studded Performances With Dinner-Dance for 2,000 Event Report Posted December 6, 2011, 8:55 AM EST Benefit Celebrates Haitian Culture With Wyclef Jean Music, Todd English Snacks Event Report Posted November 30, 2011, 12:19 PM EST Young Publishing Group Takes Book Awards Party Downtown, Raises $3,000 for Charity Event Report Posted November 22, 2011, 10:24 AM EST At YMCA Fund-Raiser, Swimming Pool and Basketball Court Hold Entertainment Event Report Posted November 21, 2011, 5:38 PM EST At BizBash Boston Expo, Bryan Rafanelli Stresses Importance of Relationships News Posted November 15, 2011, 3:00 PM EST 'Twilight' Premiere Lures 1,200 Fans to Camp in Downtown L.A. Event Report Posted November 15, 2011, 2:45 PM EST 5 New Products From the BizBash Boston Expo The Scout Posted November 15, 2011, 1:45 PM EST Youth Mentoring Nonprofit Raises $110,000 at Lively Awards Event Event Report Posted November 14, 2011, 11:34 AM EST Susan G. Komen Gala Surpasses 2010 Fund-Raising Totals With Celebrity Help Event Report Posted November 2, 2011, 10:38 AM EDT State Department Dinner Reels in Rafanelli, Andrés, and Four Secretaries of State Event Report Posted November 1, 2011, 1:30 PM EDT BizBash Boston Readers' Choice Awards: Voting Is Now Open From the Editors Posted November 1, 2011, 11:52 AM EDT Sponsorships, Attendance Rise for American Kidney Fund's 40th Anniversary Gala Event Report Posted October 28, 2011, 1:26 PM EDT Book Excerpt: How the MTV VMAs Found Their Groove News Posted October 27, 2011, 9:51 AM EDT Cooper-Hewitt Uses Fluorescent Tape for Museum Replica, Interactive Design Wall, and Donations Event Report Posted October 26, 2011, 4:00 PM EDT Recycled Circuit Boards, Local Fare Add Sustainable Elements to Huffington Post's Game Changers Awards Event Report Posted October 25, 2011, 12:45 PM EDT 12 New Products and Ideas From the BizBash New York Expo The Scout Posted October 25, 2011, 11:38 AM EDT Video: BizBash New York Expo Highlights, With Colin Cowie and Scott Heiferman News Posted October 24, 2011, 11:58 AM EDT Environmental Media Awards Blanket Warner Brothers Lot With On-Message Tasting and Gift Stations Event Report Posted October 18, 2011, 3:10 PM EDT BizBash New York Expo Is Wednesday; Online Pre-Registration Extended to 5 p.m. Tuesday From the Editors Posted October 18, 2011, 8:47 AM EDT


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|Home Decor
I have a love for sewing and quilting that was started when I was a small child. I was encouraged by my mom, grandma and great grandma. I had excellent teachers!View all patterns by designer (180) »
January's Block for the Quilt Doodle BOM 2014 is actually a strip... The first section we are going to do is a row of 'Chilly Silly Snowmen'.... They are so stinkin cute, and easy to sew together. Everything is based on 2 1/2" squares and strips. The snowman noses are appliqued, but don't worry, if you are a beginner to applique, you can do these.


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Kate Upton is in rarefied company now that she's landed the latest swimsuit cover of Sports Illustrated, but it wasn't exactly hard work.
"I just have a lot of fun and be myself," she told PEOPLE. "It just comes so naturally."
What else comes naturally to the 19-year-old model? Loving dogs, especially her pet pooch Boots, who often travels with Upton and gets spoiled with room service wherever she goes.
Upton isn't alone in her love of dogs. While doing press for the swimsuit issue Tuesday morning, she met another famous pal to canines: Martha Stewart.
Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue's Kate Upton Loves Dogs
Courtesy Kate Upton


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Fantasia, one of four kittens born unwanted to an unwanted mom, was rescued, by me, is fixed, and, with her sister, is still waiting for a home. I am getting slightly worried over it. If they get too big, people don't want them anymore. Anyhow, check all the cats here awaiting homes out at : www.purr.petfinder.com. And donate to spay neuter, cause that cuts to the chase in solving the overpopulatin problem, at www.poppainc.org. Thanks! May the cats be with you!


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DISSECTING ANEURYSM is a serious condition proving fatal in more than 75% of cases. The more common subacute or chronic types beginning in the descending thoracic aorta have been managed satisfactorily by resection and graft replacement for nearly a decade.1 Recent reports have described elective repair for the more extensive type of dissecting aneurysm beginning just above the aortic valve in a few fortunate patients surviving weeks or months after the onset of the dissecting process.1-6 The purpose of this report is to describe complete correction of this condition in its acute form and to illustrate the problem and its successful emergency treatment by a case report.
The process begins with a transverse tear, often circumferential, in the intimal and medial layers of the aorta just above the aortic valve (Fig 1). Through this tear the force of blood dissects the aortic wall, creating a false lumen.
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Oh my goodness! I am having so much fun reading the blog posts over at Unus Sed Leona! As part of a monthly project, I am supposed to pick one post from her blog and share with you, but I cannot find just one blog post! It is impossible to pick one post!
At Unus Sed Leona you will find:
- Gardening (with really pretty pictures!)
- Recipes (these potato flautas look delish!)
- Fashion
- Sass
- Product Reviews
Everything she writes is so well written and enjoyable!
But, I guess if I have to choose a favorite, it would be her post on Eight Ways to Use a Watermelon. We love watermelon at our house and Papa usually grows it in his garden every year so I am super excited to try some of her tips, especially the watermelon smoothies and watermelon sorbet! I am definitely looking forward to summer now!
Make sure to head over to Unus Sed Leona to see what you might find! And don't forget to tell her that Life as Leels says hi!