This book presents a generalised computational model for the degradation of resorbable composites, using analytic expressions to represent the interwoven phenomena present during degradation. It then combines this modelling framework with a comprehensive database of quantitative degradation data mined from existing literature and from novel experiments, to provide new insights into the interrelated factors controlling degradation. Resorbable composites made of biodegradable polyesters and calcium-based ceramics have significant therapeutic potential as tissue engineering scaffolds, as temporary implants and as drug-loaded matrices for controlled release. However, their degradation is complex and the rate of resorption depends on multiple connected factors such as the shape and size of the device, polymer chemistry and molecular weight, particle phase, size, volume fraction, distribution and pH-dependent dissolution properties. Understanding and ultimately predicting the degradation of resorbable composites is of central importance if we are to fully unlock the promise of these materials.

Mathematical Modelling and Computer Simulation of Activated Sludge Systems – Second Edition provides, from the process engineering perspective, a comprehensive and up-to-date overview regarding various aspects of the mechanistic (“white box”) modelling and simulation of advanced activated sludge systems performing biological nutrient removal. In the new edition of the book, a special focus is given to nitrogen removal and the latest developments in modelling the innovative nitrogen removal processes. Furthermore, a new section on micropollutant removal has been added. The focus of modelling has been shifting in the last years to models that can describe the performance of a whole plant (plant-wide modelling). The expanded part of this new edition introduces models describing the most important processes interrelated with the mainstream activated sludge systems as well as models describing the energy balance, operating costs and environmental impact. The complex process evaluation, including minimization of energy consumption and carbon footprint, is in line with the present and future wastewater treatment goals. By combining a general introduction and a textbook, this book serves both intermediate and more experienced model users, both researchers and practitioners, as a comprehensive guide to modelling and simulation studies. The book can be used as a supplemental material at graduate and post-graduate levels of wastewater engineering/modelling courses.

The primary purpose of each of the subsequent chapters of this book is to promulgate quantitative approaches concerned with elucidating mechanisms in a particular area of the nutrition of ruminants, pigs, poultry, fish or pets. Given the diverse scientific backgrounds of the contributors of each chapter (the chapters in the book are arranged according to subject area), the imposition of a rigid format for presenting mathematical material has been eschewed, though basic mathematical conventions are adhered to.

These papers are concerned with new advances and novel solutions in the areas of biofluids, image-guided surgery, tissue engineering and cardovascular mechanics, implant analysis, soft tissue mechanics, bone remodeling and motion analysis. The contents also feature a special section on dental materials, dental adhesives and orthodontic mechanics. This edition contains many examples, tables and figures, and together with the many references, provides the reader with invaluable information on the latest theoretical developments and applications.

Shape-memory polymers (SMP) are a unique branch of the smart materials family which are capable of changing shape on-demand upon exposure to external stimulus. The discovery of SMP made a significant breakthrough in the developments of novel smart materials for a variety of engineering applications, superseded the traditional materials, and also influenced the current methods of product designing. This book provides the latest advanced information of on-going research domains of SMP. This will certainly enlighten the reader to the achievements and tremendous potentials of SMP. The basic fundamentals of SMP, including shape-memory mechanisms and mechanics are described. This will aid reader to become more familiar with SMP and the basic concepts, thus guiding them in undergoing independent research in the SMP field. The book also provides the reader with associated challenges and existing application problems of SMP. This could assist the reader to focus more on these issues and further exploit their knowledge to look for innovative solutions. Future outlooks of SMP research are discussed as well. This book should prove to be extremely useful for academics, R&D managers, researcher scientists, engineers, and all others related to the SMP research.

This is the second edition of the classic book An Introduction to Bioceramics which provides a comprehensive overview of all types of ceramic and glass materials that are used in medicine and dentistry. The enormous growth of the field of bioceramics is due to the recognition by the medical and dental community of the importance of bioactive materials to stimulate repair and regeneration of tissues. This edition includes 21 new chapters that document the science and especially the clinical applications of the new generation of bioceramics in the field of tissue regeneration and repair. Important socioeconomic factors influencing the economics and availability of new medical treatments are covered with updates on regulatory procedures for new biomaterials, methods for technology transfer and ethical issues.The book contains 42 chapters that offer the only comprehensive treatment of the science, technology and clinical applications of all types of bioceramic materials used in medicine and dentistry. Each chapter is written by leaders in their specialized fields and is a thorough review of the subject matter, unlike many conference proceedings. All chapters have been edited to reflect the same writing style, making the book an easy read. The completeness of treatment of all types of bioceramics and their clinical applications makes the book unique in the field and invaluable to all readers.