The association between playgroup participation, learning competency and social-emotional wellbeing for children aged four-five years in Australia

Data from Growing Up in Australia: The Longitudinal Study of Australian Children is used to examine the associations between playgroup participation and the outcomes for children aged 4 to 5 years. Controlling for a range of socio-economic and family characteristics, playgroup participation across the ages of 0-3 years was used to predict learning competence and social-emotional functioning outcomes at age 4-5 years. For learning competence, both boys and girls from disadvantaged families scored 3-4% higher if they attended playgroup when aged 0-1 and 2-3 years compared to boys and girls from disadvantaged families who did not attend playgroup. For social and emotional functioning, girls from disadvantaged families who attended playgroup when they were aged 0-1 and 2-3 years scored nearly 5% higher than those who did not attend. Demographic characteristics also showed that disadvantaged families were the families least likely to access these services. Despite data limitations, this study provides evidence that continued participation in playgroups is associated with better outcomes for children from disadvantaged families

The adaptation of mechatronic principles to the design and control of the filter cycle

A mechatronics approach has been employed to improve the performance of a solid-liquid separation device. The basic principles of the ‘chematronics’ task are described with reference to a computer controlled, pilot scale, pressure leaf filtration rig capable of measuring in-situ solids concentration profiles. By combining suitable sensors, transducers and control software it is shown how data can be acquired to correctly control and monitor all aspects of the filter cycle and yield a flexible apparatus capable of operating in a number of modes

Using mechatronics for the interpretation and modelling of the pressure filter cycle

An experimental apparatus combining the principles of mechatronics with a dead-end pressure leaf filter is described. The computer controlled and sequenced apparatus was used to monitor performance during the cake formation, gas dewatering and displacement washing phases of filter cycles. Data relating to cake properties and liquor transport rates were acquired through electrical resistance measurements and suitable transducers. The data illustrate the versatility and accuracy of the apparatus and they are used to compare with predictions given by existing theories, particularly for cake formation. Batch experimental results obtained with aqueous suspensions of calcite are shown to compare favourably with theoretical predictions for important design parameters such as cake height and cumulative volume of filtrate whereas data for more compressible talc systems tended to show more deviation. The work presented highlights the benefit of a mechatronics approach to experimentation and emphasizes the importance of data acquisition and system control to future developments in filter design

Using electrical impedance tomography to interpret the filter cycle

An experimental pressure filtration rig, capable of automatic operation and data collection, has been used to acquire data for a number of filter cycles. The computer controlled apparatus uses electrical resistance measurements and suitable transducers to determine the status of a filter cake during combinations of cake formation, gas dewatering and displacement washing. The experimental arrangement is briefly described together with the principal equations of a computer simulation. Experimental data obtained for aqueous calcite suspensions are compared with the predictions made by simulation and conclusions are drawn

Using chematronics to improve filtration equipment

Mechatronics combines the philosophies of mechanical and electrical engineering with computer technology to aid the design and control of mechanical processes. This paper will propose the concept of ‘chematronics’ which involves the combination of these disciplines to solve problems within chemical engineering. A non-invasive tomographic technique has been used to obtain insitu solids concentration profiles and hence the information required to understand more closely the phenomena which occur during the pressure filtration cycle. A novel filter cell and its associated experimental rig, constructed to acquire data for the filtration, dewatering and washing phases of a filter cycle, are described along with some data obtained from filtration tests using calcium carbonate suspensions. The data serve to highlight the potential of a chematronics approach

The imaging of filter cakes through electrical impedance tomography

An experimental rig capable of automatically sequencing and collecting data from a dead-end pressure filter is described. The computer-controlled apparatus uses electrical impedance measurements in multiple vertical scanning planes to determine the status of a filter cake during either the cake formation, gas dewatering or displacement washing phases of a filter cycle. The data acquired are displayed in real time during a test in conjunction with liquor flow rates. Initial results from an experimental programme are presented, which show the filtration and dewatering characteristics of aqueous-based calcium, carbonate suspensions. The importance of data acquisition and system control are discussed, and an outline of future developments is given

Dawn or Doom: The Risks and Rewards of Emerging Technologies

Dawn or Doom is a free and open to the public conference at Purdue where we focus on benefits and risks surrounding some of the technologies that are both the most disruptive to current practices and being adopted the fastest. A collection of Purdue faculty experts and some outside speakers showcase their many perspectives related to this technology explosion, explore conditions that will foster innovation and investment into the next generation, and address the big-picture issues where both optimism and pessimism are warranted

DataPool: building capacity, developing skills, supporting researchers

Following on from the Insitutional Data Management Blueprint (IDMB) project and its 10 year road map, the DataPool project aims to begin the process of embedding research data management into the infrastructure of the Unversity and the research life cycle. While illustrating the key areas for development within the University it also recognises the importance of working in collaboration with existing expertise