bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Design as Research
Authors: Ferris Timothy L.J.
Published: August 2012

Research is defined as an activity that creates new knowledge. This is often misunderstood in the engineering community as necessarily requiring a scientific contribution that advances the theory of some matter related to engineering materials or processes. Consequently, typical engineering research projects investigate physical phenomena thought likely to be interesting in potential applications or to describe the characteristics of processes used in engineering work. The results of such projects provide a fragmented, abstracted view of the phenomena investigated, which is difficult to use in engineering decision making related to contextualised situations. This chapter shows how the actual design of engineered artefacts is research because it provides knowledge of the impact of the integration of various elements of existing knowledge, which demonstrates the properties of the designs achieved through the design work and leads to discovery of solutions to the various challenges of integration discovered through the project which attempts to achieve the integration.
Advanced Technologies for Transient Faults Detection and Compensation
Authors: Reorda Matteo Sonza , Sterpone Luca , Violante Massimo
Published: August 2012

Transient faults became an increasing issue in the past few years as smaller geometries of newer, highly miniaturized, silicon manufacturing technologies brought to the mass-market failure mechanisms traditionally bound to niche markets as electronic equipments for avionic, space or nuclear applications. This chapter presents the origin of transient faults, it discusses the propagation mechanism, it outlines models devised to represent them and finally it discusses the state-of-the-art design techniques that can be used to detect and correct transient faults. The concepts of hardware, data and time redundancy are presented, and their implementations to cope with transient faults affecting storage elements, combinational logic and IP-cores (e.g., processor cores) typically found in a System-on-Chip are discussed.
Building for the Future
Authors: Salleh Hafez , Lou Eric
Published: August 2012

This chapter provides the IT readiness assessment for before and after scenarios of IT systems implementation in a construction consultancy company providing multi-disciplinary services for the construction industry throughout the United Kingdom. The services offered include building surveying, quantity surveying, project management, civil and structural engineering design, and mechanical and electrical engineering design, among others. On application of the maturity model it was found that the overall processes for managing information are improving since the introduction of the new IT system. Prior to the project, the development of IT/IS was driven to perform daily work tasks that required the company to run a business. The new systems has streamlined the organization-wide communication, which the previous system did not have the capability to do, and to reduce cost for document reproduction. The level of IT skills prior to the project was relatively low; the introduction of the new system has helped the company to increase their staff’s IT skills.
Prototyping of Robotic Systems in Surgical Procedures and Automated Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Li Zheng (Jeremy)
Published: August 2012

The prototyping and implementation of robotic system is a scientific and technological integrating of robotic system design, development, testing, and application. This chapter describes the recent development and applications of robotic systems to surgery procedures in biomedical engineering and automated manufacturing processes in industry. It includes the design and development, computer-aided modeling and simulation, prototype analysis, and testing of robotic systems in these two different applications.
Super High Efficiency Multi-Junction Solar Cells and Concentrator Solar Cells
Authors: Yamaguchi Masafumi
Published: August 2012

While single-junction solar cells may be capable of attaining AM1.5 efficiencies of up to 29%, Multi-Junction (MJ, Tandem) III-V compound solar cells appear capable of realistic efficiencies of up to 50% and are promising for space and terrestrial applications. In fact, the InGaP/GaAs/Ge triple-junction solar cells have been widely used in space since 1997. In addition, industrialization of concentrator solar cell modules using III-V compound MJ solar cells have been announced by some companies. This chapter presents principles and key issues for realizing high-efficiency MJ solar cells, issues relating to development and manufacturing, and applications for space and terrestrial uses.
A Framework for the Management of Logistics Outsourcing Life Cycle
Authors: Folinas Dimitris
Published: August 2012

During the last decade, logistics outsourcing relationships have been thoroughly researched. Much of the prior work on the management of outsourcing has focused on the benefits, challenges, and risks. In this study the focus is on the management of logistics outsourcing life cycle. After synthesizing a number of models, this study proposes a framework for the management of logistics outsourcing life cycle. It proposes a systematic procedure that consists of specific steps and sub-steps. The proposed steps are the following: feasibility study, requirement analysis, market research, selection, planning of partnership, development and operation of partnership, partnership management, and re-identification of partnership. For every step, the activities, aims, and deliverables are defined, presented, and analyzed.
Taking Logistics Service Providers into Account in Industrial Classifications
Authors: Saglietto Laurence
Published: August 2012

This expansion of logistics beyond the boundaries of the firm is illustrated by innovative new practices between firms, suppliers, retailers, and service providers. In this respect, many articles tend to present logistics service providers (LSP) in the form of taxonomies, and to highlight their evolution with the help of representative figures. However, there are doubts about the origin and credibility of these figures, because LSP are not clearly identified in the international industry classifications on which they are based. The author’s aim is to identify the community of LSP, and 4PL in particular, as it is most immaterial. At first, the chapter briefly reviews the literature on LSP classifications and their limitations when it comes to taking 4PL into account. It then proposes a methodology to address this problem, which is tested through an empirical study, leading to formulate a new definition of 4PL based on the taxonomy, which is discussed at last.
Service Innovation along the Chain of Service Process in Airline Business
Authors: Fernando Yudi
Published: August 2012

This chapter aims to explore the airline service processes which relate to the issue of outsourcing for service innovation. With this, airline managements are able to identify the part of the service process that necessitates outsourcing. The decision to outsource some service processes to the supplier is intended to allow airlines to focus on their core business. This chapter looks at the service encounter approach to analyse the possibility of the innovation during service processes. The results indicate that there are four major groups who have experienced service encounters in which innovations originate and evolve. These four groups interact in the service process which identifies the fact that the service process can be outsourced and innovated (e.g. web-integrated system, mobile phone application for check-in, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), multi-sorting baggage handling system). Airline management has been suggested to make improvement of the services offered by considering safety, cost aspects, and enhance customer service experiences. This effort is expected to come up with an airline business strategy that will create sustainable competitive advantage.
Logistics Modeling and Forecasting with Regression
Authors: Dagiasis Ariadni Papana
Published: August 2012

In this chapter, the method of multiple regression is introduced for describing the functional relationship among several variables, as well as for predicting the values of a variable from the values of a group of variables. The tools for model fitting, model validation, and prediction are presented, while emphasis is given on understanding the types of data that can be analyzed via regression. More specifically, the method of least squares is discussed. Regression analysis is proposed due to its simplicity and wide applicability. Modeling outsourcing or demand forecasting can both be achieved by regression analysis, providing useful information for logistics service providers or 3PL companies. Hauling freight data collected from a logistics company based in Ohio were utilized to demonstrate the applicability of regression analysis and its usefulness for logistics service providers, 3PL companies, and transportation companies. Finally, limitations, solutions, and alternative strategies are discussed.
Measuring Performance of Logistics Outsourcing Services
Authors: Jaafar Harlina Suzana , Rafiq Mohammed
Published: August 2012

As the business competition is becoming more intense, there has been a great pressure to the logistics service providers to demonstrate its contribution to the organizational performance. Consequently, there has been a tendency of studies focusing at measuring the logistics service performance within various perspectives. This chapter provides a review on several significant studies that measures the performance of logistics services followed by presenting an empirical study on measuring logistics performance as perceived by the customers in the UK context. The empirical results confirms the relationships and consequent effects of LSQ-satisfaction, relationship quality, and customer loyalty-by providing a process model that shows the process of how customers would stay loyal in the logistics outsourcing business relationships by using exit intention as the output variable. The model in this study can greatly assist the logistics outsourcing companies in measuring the performance of their services. It helps the logistics companies understand how their customers measure the quality of their relationship experiences in receiving the logistics services provided by the logistics companies.
Using Outsourced Logistics Services (4pl)
Authors: Giotopoulos Vasileios , Koulouriotis Dimitrios E. , Moustakis Vasileios
Published: August 2012

The objective of this chapter is the study of the economical and legal environment in which logistics enterprises operate in Greece. Firstly, there is a presentation of logistics outsourcing and the existing 3PL and 4PL organizational models as well as an analysis of the economical and legal system which influences the operation of logistics ventures in Greece and a presentation of the funding possibilities according to Greek law. An economical sustainability study is being conducted according to the Net Present Value method (NPV), and two types of ventures are studied: an asset based venture, and a non asset based venture. At the end of this chapter, there is a sensitivity analysis with respect to the discount rate that is used in the NPV (Net Present Value) method. The results of this analysis showed that a change of the discount rate has significant consequences on the economics of the project.
Key Contractual Issues with Logistics Outsourcing
Authors: De Silva Sam
Published: August 2012

Whilst there have been many papers on logistics outsourcing there is very limited commentary on the contractual issues with logistics outsourcing. Most of the literature can be generally categorized according to different focus area. Some of these focus areas include logistics practices, usage of 3PL logistics services, current state and future trends, strategies, and performance measurements. The chapter attempts to address this “gap.” The chapter will focus on some of the key contractual issues with logistics outsourcing contracts currently troubling customers, service providers, and advisers, such as (a) scope of the services; (b) change control; (c) service levels and service credits; (d) risk allocation – limitations and exclusions of liability; and (e) benchmarking.
Purchasing Green Transport and Logistics Services
Authors: Evangelista Pietro , Huge-Brodin Maria , Isaksson Karin , Sweeney Edward
Published: August 2012

Environmental sustainability is an area of increasing importance for third party logistics (3PL) companies. As the design and implementation of services requires interaction between buyer and 3PL, the 3PLs are in a critical position to support the efforts towards greening operations of different supply chain participants. However the literature in this field reflects a gap between the perspectives of buyers and 3PLs. This chapter attempts to fill this void through an explorative case study analysis on the environmental attitude of 3PLs in order to derive implications for buyers’ behavior. The results indicate that the buyer’s role is critical in different ways in the development of green initiatives among 3PLs. An increased orientation towards longer-term contracts and joint development would likely enhance the level of green initiatives. Indirectly, the buyer has the opportunity to influence its 3PLs through interaction with employees on different levels in the company, including top management.
Moving toward a Global Supply Chain Operations and the Impact on International Competition
Authors: Aghazadeh Seyed-Mahmoud
Published: August 2012

As the domestic businesses expand, many are making the choice to use foreign products, labor, and services to aid in their production. Global supply chains are minimizing the costs of the production process but are also creating vulnerabilities to home countries. As the global economy changes, the competitiveness between countries grows. Competitiveness can affect everything from a country’s economy to how a firm conducts international business. Addressing the need to find a method to increase the United States competitiveness in the world economy by improving the use of global supply chains would help to make domestic firms more successful in the global economy. Studying how companies position themselves abroad is important to providing insight into how to become more competitive. Worldwide companies are diversifying by moving more of their supply chain to international locations. This is providing them with many benefits such as better markets for products, lower costs, and more advanced technologies. As a result, the competitive strategy of companies is to increase production and decrease costs through the most efficient global supply chain. Maximizing the potential of domestic firms’ global supply chains is one of the most effective ways to increase U.S. competitiveness. If more big businesses in the United States are willing to participate on the global level, then the US will be able to improve their competitiveness.
Improving Accessibility for Seniors in a Life-long Learning Network
Authors: Gu Xiaoqing , Ding Rui , Fu Shirong
Published: August 2012

Senior citizens are comparatively vulnerable in accessing learning opportunities offered on the Internet due to usability problems in current web design. In an effort to build a senior-friendly learning web as a part of the Life-long Learning Network in Shanghai, usability studies of two websites currently available to Shanghai senior citizens were conducted, with the intention of integrating these websites into a senior learning web as well as promoting accessibility for senior users. Through this study usability problems were identified generating suggested changes for designing websites focused on learning by seniors. This study contributes empirical findings to the field of information system design and its accessibility for seniors.
Identifying Predictors of Academic Success for Part-Time Students at Polytechnic Institutes in Malaysia
Authors: Ibrahim Norhayati , Freeman Steven A. , Shelley Mack C.
Published: August 2012

A central challenge for higher education today is to understand the diversity and complexity of nontraditional students’ life experiences and how these factors influence their academic success. To better understand these issues, this study explored the role of demographic characteristics and employment variables in predicting the academic success of part-time students at four polytechnic institutes in Malaysia. Demographic characteristics studied included respondent’s age, gender, marital status, number of children, parent’s educational level, and financial resources. Employment variables assessed were number of years working, job relatedness to the program, job satisfaction, and monthly salary. A total of 614 part-time students completed the survey. Results indicated that being an older student, being female, paying for their own education, and having high job satisfaction were statistically significant predictors of part-time students’ academic success. Understanding the effects of demographic characteristics and employment variables on students’ academic success might help administrators and educators to develop teaching and learning processes, support services, and policies to enhance part-time students’ academic success.
Exploring the Preparedness of Business Education Teacher Candidates for their Internships
Authors: Fletcher Edward C. , Mountjoy Kathy , Bailey Glenn
Published: August 2012

Applying a modified-Delphi technique, this research study sought consensus from business education mentor teachers regarding the top three areas in which business education student teachers were prepared as well as underprepared for their roles as teachers. Further, the mentor teachers provided recommendations for business education teacher preparation programs to implement to better prepare their teacher candidates for the student teaching internship. To that end, the mentor teachers did not gain consensus on the top three areas their student teachers were most prepared. However, they did agree classroom management and working with special needs’ students were among the top three areas their student teachers were least prepared. The mentor teachers agreed business education teacher preparation programs could provide more experiences with classroom management in public schools and provide their teacher candidates with more information about the workload and commitment needed to be effective teachers.
Transformative Learning
Authors: Wang Victor X. , Cranton Patricia
Published: August 2012

The theory of transformative learning has been explored by different theorists and scholars. However, few scholars have made an attempt to make a comparison between transformative learning and Confucianism or between transformative learning and andragogy. The authors of this article address these comparisons to develop new and different insights to guide Web-based teaching and learning. Indeed, as Web-based teaching and learning has become popular in the 21st century, the theory of transformative learning should help Web-based teaching and learning. The authors of this article demonstrate different ways whereby the theory of transformative learning can be used to stimulate critical self-reflection and potentially transformative learning.
Exploring Structural and Dynamical Properties Microtubules by Means of Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Pizzi R. , Fiorentini S. , Strini G. , Pregnolato M.
Published: August 2012

Microtubules (MTs) are cylindrical polymers of the tubulin dimer, are constituents of all eukaryotic cells cytoskeleton and are involved in key cellular functions and are claimed to be involved as sub-cellular information or quantum information communication systems. The authors evaluated some biophysical properties of MTs by means of specific physical measures of resonance and birefringence in presence of electromagnetic field, on the assumption that when tubulin and MTs show different biophysical behaviours, this should be due to their special structural properties. Actually, MTs are the closest biological equivalent to the well-known carbon nanotubes (CNTs), whose interesting biophysical and quantum properties are due to their peculiar microscopic structure. The experimental results highlighted a physical behaviour of MTs in comparison with tubulin. The dynamic simulation of MT and tubulin subjected to electromagnetic field was performed via MD tools. Their level of self-organization was evaluated using artificial neural networks, which resulted to be an effective method to gather the dynamical behaviour of cellular and non-cellular structures and to compare their physical properties.
Neurofeedback
Authors: Vernon David , Dempster Tammy
Published: August 2012

This chapter explores the use of neurofeedback training as a mechanism for altering human brain functioning and in turn influencing behaviour. It outlines the notion that such training provides a plausible mechanism by which an individual may be able to learn to alter and control specific aspects of his electro-cortical activity. The chapter highlights some of the findings from research, including clinical, peak performance, and functional validation studies. In addition, it delineates some important methodological issues that remain to be addressed. It is hoped that outlining these issues will serve a dual purpose. First, it will assist in the understanding of some of the theoretical and methodological limitations that may be holding the field back. Second, it is hoped that such information will stimulate researchers to work towards designing more efficient and effective research protocols and neurofeedback training paradigms.
Networks
Authors: Giuliani Alessandro
Published: August 2012

Some applications of network based modelling are presented so to introduce the basic terminology of the emergent network paradigm to highlight strengths and limitations of the method and to sketch the strong relation linking network based approach to other modelling tools.
IT Security Governance in E-banking
Authors: Tsiakis Theodosios , Kargidis Theodoros , Chatzipoulidis Aristeidis
Published: August 2012

Most industries have been influenced in different ways by e-commerce, and the banking industry is no exception. Particularly, banks are embracing electronic banking (e-banking) as a service to reach a wider market share, increase customer satisfaction and lower operational costs. This increased supply and demand in e-banking services has caused not only opportunities but also risks. The need to manage and regulate those risks calls for a sound Information Technology Security Governance (ITSG) program as means to deliver value business and mitigate Information Technology (IT) risks. In this regard, the chapter’s objectives are to explore, evaluate, and compare the current status and characteristics of Information Security Governance (ISG) approaches for e-banking. Therefore, the authors focus on an analysis of reputed best standards, guidelines on governance, risk management methods, and internal controls currently used for e-banking as means to research which satisfies best ISG objectives. Results show that banks should not be restricted to currently used approaches to ISG for e-banking but should take into consideration benefits and shortcomings other approaches possess. In this regard, the authors propose an ITSG framework for e-banking as a continuous process for assuring ISG objectives. They also highlight the importance of consistent measurement of metrics of ITSG performance with the aid of security content automation protocol.
Assessing the Maturity of Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (COBIT) Framework in the Egyptian Banking Sector
Authors: Abdelsalam Hisham M. , Marzouk Ahmed M , Hamza Haitham S.
Published: August 2012

Banking sector in Egypt is one of the largest business sectors in terms of contributing to country economic growth and in terms of investing in information technology (IT). Thus, implementing a good Information Technology (IT) governance framework inside Egyptian banks is a rather critical issue. The purpose of this chapter is to assess the importance and the implementation of Control Objectives for Information and Related Technology (COBIT) high level processes in the Egyptian banking sector. A total of 25 working banks in Egypt which are registered in the Central Bank of Egypt (CBE) from (public sector, private and joint venture and foreign) banks were interviewed in a series of one-to-one interviews. The results of this study showed that although the majority of interviewed Chief Information Officer (CIO), IT Managers, IT Auditors and others perceived the importance of COBIT high level processes in their organizations, the majority of the Egyptian banks have a below average maturity level for most of the COBIT processes.
Information Security Governance
Authors: Alazab Mamoun , Venkatraman Sitalakshmi , Watters Paul , Alazab Moutaz
Published: August 2012

Detecting malicious software or malware is one of the major concerns in information security governance as malware authors pose a major challenge to digital forensics by using a variety of highly sophisticated stealth techniques to hide malicious code in computing systems, including smartphones. The current detection techniques are futile, as forensic analysis of infected devices is unable to identify all the hidden malware, thereby resulting in zero day attacks. This chapter takes a key step forward to address this issue and lays foundation for deeper investigations in digital forensics. The goal of this chapter is, firstly, to unearth the recent obfuscation strategies employed to hide malware. Secondly, this chapter proposes innovative techniques that are implemented as a fully-automated tool, and experimentally tested to exhaustively detect hidden malware that leverage on system vulnerabilities. Based on these research investigations, the chapter also arrives at an information security governance plan that would aid in addressing the current and future cybercrime situations.
Business Process Modeling
Authors: Batko Roman
Published: August 2012

This chapter presents an innovative methodology used by me for teaching a class entitled “Process Management” at the Faculty of Management and Social Communication of the Jagiellonian University. The lecture provides students with insights into the BPM theory and use of a BPM-dedicated IT tool – ADONIS by BOC, a University of Vienna-based spin-off. On the basis of theoretical guidance, as well as desktop and field research (interviews, observations), students are requested to design their own virtual enterprise. Through individual ADONIS-supported project work, they come to understand better the processes management mechanisms, risk assessment and management, and goal attainment. By designing processes relevant for any startup, students learn a key managerial function – planning. By making them aware of the business-inherent risks coming into view in process outputs, it also allows them to prepare themselves for their own market debut.
Regional Innovation System in Lower Silesia
Authors: Miller Miroslaw
Published: August 2012

Knowledge Based Economy is the key to realize the Lisbon strategy for Europe on global and regional scale. Wroclaw’s EIT Plus strategy will stimulate knowledge-intensive growth of Wroclaw and the Lower Silesia region by concerted effort of the knowledge triangle stakeholders. The cooperation with the neighbouring regions will contribute to establishing a significant knowledge-based economy region in this part of Central Europe and, consequently, should also lead to strengthening the economic position of Poland. EIT Plus Programme refers to the goals of the visionary EC initiative to establish the European Institute of Innovation and Technology. Initial financing for the EIT Plus Programme of ca 200 Mio. € comes from the EU structural funds for 2008-2014. Several core projects for implementation of the EIT Plus programme have been prepared by a new entity, Wroclaw Research Centre EIT Plus Ltd being a company established in 2008 by the City of Wroclaw, the Lower Silesia Region and Wroclaw universities.
Technology Intelligence Systems in Industry and Academic Networks
Authors: De Coster Rebecca , Phillips Scott
Published: August 2012

High technology firms are under many competitive pressures, which necessitates ongoing innovation and new product development. In this chapter, the early stages of the innovation process, where it is unclear which technologies have the potential to prevail and take hold in a sector, are examined. Technology intelligence systems, which support innovation in two contexts, are assessed; firstly, industry networks which are under pressure to produce successive innovations on a commercial basis, and secondly, academic networks which address innovation on a less commercial basis. This chapter outlines three different technology intelligence systems based on industry and academic networks and describes the implications in terms of technology management. The first system is based around industry based R&D centres, the second around trade associations, and the third around academic centres.
Creating and Managing an Innovation Ecosystem
Authors: Biswas Dhrubes , Bhowmick Bhaskar
Published: August 2012

Research reveals that Innovation ecosystem model successfully focuses on value creation for customers and other stakeholders in the ecosystem. The elements in the ecosystem adapt to the environmental changes and reconfigure based on the knowledge base created. The use of ICT platforms has added critical value and novelties for today’s innovation ecosystem. Innovation ecosystem leads to knowledge creation and dissemination. This also involves human capital development and opportunity recognition. The co-incubation model of Higher Educational Institutes (HEIs) with industries plays an important role for fostering entrepreneurship through ideation- incubation –enterprise creation bringing the benefits to all levels of the society. HEIs and industry collaboration generated an Education-Enterprise (E-E) model. IIT Kharagpur utilized the E-E model to support grass root level entrepreneurs for enterprise creation. This leads to the evolution of EE model. IIT Kharagpur focuses on creation of business solutions through local entrepreneurs through global collaboration in the education, environment, energy, and health domain. Innovation ecosystem creation and management face great challenge due to the complexities in growing economy. This chapter represents live cases dealing with challenges of creation and managing of innovation ecosystem.
Framework Entrepreneurship Process
Authors: Pires José Adriano Gomes , Peñalvo Francisco José García , Sampaio Jorge Humberto Marinho , Vázquez. Rosa María Martínez
Published: August 2012

The thematic of entrepreneurship has assumed a great importance in recent times and is regarded by the governments of all countries as a lever for economic and social development of nations. Entrepreneurship is generally recognized by the process that leads to the creation of companies, and consequently, creates wealth and employment. In their genesis, entrepreneurial ventures, emerged mainly as small business, associated with creative ideas or innovative approaches implemented in most situations, using empirical processes, without major concerns with the scientific rigor that can also contribute in a sustainable way to add value to these business initiatives. In this way, together with the empirical component, resulting from the business opportunity perception by promoter, the process of setting up a business, commonly known as entrepreneurship, should follow a methodology and make use of tools and techniques best suited to each stage of the process. The perspective proposed, Framework Entrepreneurship Process, intends to position itself as a guide for business creation, which took as its starting point a particular idea with potential business leads in a systematic process of transforming it into a successful company. This framework intends to provide an integrated view of the whole process of setting up a company, while it indexes each of the different stages of the process, a set of techniques and tools, perfectly validated in scientific contexts.
Artifacts of Expansive Learning in Designing a Web-Based Performance Assessment System
Authors: Mawhinney Hanne
Published: August 2012

Recent evidence of the adoption of technologically mediated systems of knowledge management as part of the trend to accountability in the Institutions of Higher Education around the world has been widely disseminated in World Bank and UNESCO reports, and the effects of assessment driven accountability on preparation programs extensively debated in scholarly communities. Less scholarly attention has been paid to the institutional effects of the technology enhanced performance assessment evidentiary demands on university programs undergoing review by national accrediting bodies. The lack of scholarly attention is addressed by presenting a case study examining the institutional dynamics of accreditation review experienced by faculty in one department that offered graduate programs leading to certification for education leaders. Drawing from institutional analysis (Scott, 2008a, 2008b) a conceptual framework is established in a discussion of conditions of enactment of the regulative, normative and cognitive facets of the institutional dynamics evident in the implementation ecology of accountability systems. The case study analysis outlines four phases of development of the essential elements of a web-based assessment system, and describes the questions raised by faculty about performance evidence, the assessment of that evidence, and the nature of measures of program outcome effectiveness. Classic theories of organizations fail to fully explain the concerns and questions that were raised by faculty. In contrast, Engeström’s (1999, 2001, 2008) theory of expansive learning grounded in Cultural Historical Activity Theory (CHAT) provides insights into faculty responses to questions raised by the criteria for program review established by the accrediting body. Artifacts of expansive learning evident in the development of a performance assessment system can be viewed as reflecting institutionalization of regulative, normative, and cognitive dimensions of the emergent evaluative state of leadership preparation around the world. Implications are suggested for understanding the development of information technology (IT) enhanced knowledge management systems (KMS).
Blended Assessment Methods in Online Educational Programs in Turkey
Authors: Yukselturk Erman , Curaoglu Orhan
Published: August 2012

This study analyzed eleven online educational programs of different universities in Turkey regarding their assessment methods with several aspects. The results showed that online quizzes and tests, assignments, individual and group projects, participation to the discussions, proctored face-to-face midterm and final exams are major blended assessment methods used in the online programs. All methods have benefits and challenges while preparing and administering in the courses. Therefore, online and traditional assessments methods are used complementarily to overcome their respective disadvantages. The main parts of student success scores are assessed based on human proctored face-to-face final exams at the end of the courses to get accreditation in the programs.
Meta-Analysis as a Tool for Assessing University-Wide Student Learning Outcomes
Authors: Burley Hansel , Olaniran Bolanle A.
Published: August 2012

The researchers included 10 embedded assessments in the study for a mean gain effect size of .35. From the results of a pilot study, the authors learned that while the technique works, questions about the reliability and validity of the classroom assessments emerged. The authors speculate that institutional researchers can use these techniques to compare the assessment of standards within and among universities.
Web-Based Instructions
Authors: AlBalawi Mohammed Saleh
Published: August 2012

Factors affecting faculty decisions in the conventional university setup in Saudi Arabia for participating or not participating in Web-based instruction (WBI) were investigated in this study. Incentives and barriers to WBI, faculty attitudes, and participants’ demographic information were also explored. The study was aimed to investigate the attitudes of the faculty members at three Saudi universities toward WBI in an effort to describe the current status of WBI in the Saudi higher education system. In addition, results of the study could also provide the Saudi universities and the faculty with insight into factors affecting adoption of WBI. Finally, since there have been few implementations of WBI across the country, it was important to explore how WBI is currently used in Saudi universities and to determine critical factors that could affect the implementation of WBI.
The Birth of a Survey
Authors: Fehr Mary Cain , Agnello Mary Frances , Crooks Steven M. , Inan Fethi , Flores Raymond
Published: August 2012

Assessing the effectiveness of academic programs is a critical element of institutional research. Changing demographics in the United States compel us to measure the effectiveness of academic programs to address issues of diversity. At a large public university in the Southwestern U.S., a team of researchers constructed a diversity awareness survey as part of its institutional research. This survey was created in response to several factors: (1) results from a university-wide survey of graduating seniors regarding attitudes toward diversity were alarming; (2) the College of Education was undergoing NCATE accreditation review, and assessment had become part of institutionalized procedures in the college; (3) the Curriculum and Instruction department chair requested it; (4) the teacher certification program was guided by a mission to prepare teachers to be effective in diverse classrooms. This process appeared simple at first, but proved to be a lengthy, complex series of steps on a not-so-linear path. After three years, we are just now reaching a point where we believe the survey validity is strong and the questions need no further revision.
‘De-Coupling Groups in Space and Time’
Authors: Burden Kevin , Atkinson Simon
Published: August 2012

Prior to the Web, we had hundreds of years of experience with broadcast media, from printing presses to radio and TV. Prior to email, we had hundreds of years experience with personal media – the telegraph, the telephone. But outside the Internet, we had almost nothing that supported conversation among many people at once. The radical change was de-coupling groups in space and time. To get a conversation going around a conference table or campfire, you need to gather everyone in the same place at the same moment. By undoing those restrictions, the Internet has ushered in a host of new social patterns, from the mailing list to the chat room to the weblog. (Shirky, 2003)
Separating agricultural and non-agricultural fire seasonality at regional scales
Authors: Magi B. I. , Rabin S. , Shevliakova E. , Pacala S.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. The timing and length of burning seasons in different parts of the world depend on climate, land-cover characteristics, and human activities. In this study, global burned area estimates are used in conjunction with global gridded distributions of agricultural land-cover types (defined as the sum of cropland and pasture area) to separate the seasonality of agricultural burning practices from that of non-agricultural fire. The results presented in this study show that agricultural and non-agricultural land experience broadly different fire seasonality patterns that are not always linked to climate conditions. We highlight these differences on a regional basis, examining variations in both agricultural land cover and associated cultural practices to help explain our results. While we discuss two land-cover categories, the methods can be generalized to derive seasonality for any number of land uses or cover types. This will be useful as global fire models evolve to be fully interactive with land-use and land-cover change in the next generation of Earth system models.
Biogenic nitrogen gas production at the oxic-anoxic interface in the Cariaco Basin, Venezuela
Authors: Montes E. , Altabet M. A. , Muller-Karger F. E. , Scranton M. I. , Thunell R. C. , Benitez-Nelson C. , Lorenzoni L. , Astor Y. M.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. Excess nitrogen gas (excess N2) was measured in samples collected at six locations in the eastern and western sub-basins of the Cariaco Basin, Venezuela, in September 2008 (non-upwelling conditions) and March 2009 (upwelling conditions). During both sampling periods, excess N2 concentrations were below detection in surface waters, increasing to ~22 μmol N kg−1 at the oxic-anoxic interface ([O2] < ~ 4 μmol N kg−1, ~250 m). Below the oxic-anoxic interface (300–400 m), the average concentration of excess N2 was 24.7 ± 1.9 μmol N kg−1 in September 2008 and 27.5 ± 2.0 μmol N kg−1 in March 2009, i.e., excess N2 concentrations within this depth interval were ~ 3 μmol N kg−1 higher (p < 0.001) during the upwelling season compared to the non-upwelling period. These results suggest that N-loss in the Cariaco Basin may vary seasonally in response to changes in the flux of sinking particulate organic matter. We attribute the increase in excess N2 concentrations, or N-loss, observed during upwelling to: (1) higher availability of fixed nitrogen derived from suspended and sinking particles at the oxic-anoxic interface and/or (2) enhanced ventilation at the oxic-anoxic interface during upwelling.
Calving on tidewater glaciers amplified by submarine frontal melting
Authors: O'Leary M. , Christoffersen P.
Published: August 2012

Abstract. While it has been shown repeatedly that ocean conditions exhibit an important control on the behaviour of grounded tidewater glaciers, modelling studies have focused largely on the effects of basal and surface melting. Here, a finite-element model of stresses near the front of a tidewater glacier is used to investigate the effects of frontal melting on calving, independently of the calving criterion used. Applications of the stress model to idealized scenarios reveal that undercutting of the ice front due to frontal melting can drive calving at up to ten times the mean melt rate. Factors which cause increased frontal melt-driven calving include a strong thermal gradient in the ice, and a concentration of frontal melt at the base of the glacier. These properties are typical of both Arctic and Antarctic tidewater glaciers. The finding that frontal melt near the base is a strong driver of calving leads to the conclusion that water temperatures near the bed of the glacier are critically important to the glacier front, and thus the flow of the glacier. These conclusions are robust against changes in the basal boundary condition and the choice of calving criterion, as well as variations in the glacier size or level of crevassing.
Effects of Intravitreal Bevacizumab on Inflammatory Choroidal Neovascular Membrane
Authors: Iannetti Ludovico , Paroli Maria Pia , Fabiani Claudia , Nardella Chiara , Campanella Michelangelo , Pivetti-Pezzi Paola
Published: August 2012

Purpose.

To test the efficacy of intravitreal bevacizumab (IB) in the treatment of inflammatory choroidal neovascularization (CNV).

Methods.

A prospective interventional study on patients with subfoveal CNV secondary to posterior/ diffuse uveitis treated with 1.5 mg/0.05 mL of IB. Eight eyes of 8 patients, with mean follow-up of 19.25±6 months, were included. The measurements adopted were 1) changes in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), 2) reduction in CNV size, and 3) changes in central foveolar thickness (CFT) measured by optical coherence tomography.

Results.

The mean number of intravitreal injections was 3.75±1.38. After IB treatment, the mean BCVA improved significantly, from 0.27±0.10 before treatment to 0.5±0.29 after treatment (p<0.05). The CFT also responded well to IB, with 402.75±114.11 μm preoperatively, and after treatment 300.5±90.98 μm (p<0.01). Notably, all patients showed a reduction in the size of the CNV and BCVA remained stable or improved in 7 eyes (87.5%). No episode of active intraocular inflammation was observed and patients continued to receive their systemic steroid or immunosuppressive therapy.

Conclusions.

Intravitreal bevacizumab may be an additional strategy in inflammatory CNV of eyes with controlled uveitis.
Acute Effect of Pure Oxygen Breathing on Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Vinten Martin , La Cour Morten , Lund-Andersen Henrik , Larsen Michael
Published: August 2012

Purpose.

A small-scale pilot study of the pathophysiology of diabetic macular edema (DME) was made by assessing concomitant changes in macular volume (MV), mean arterial blood pressure (MABP), intraocular pressure (IOP), retinal artery diameter (RAD), and retinal vein diameter (RVD) in response to 120 minutes of pure oxygen breathing.

Methods.

Eleven eyes of 11 patients with DME were examined at baseline and while breathing pure oxygen for 120 minutes followed by 120 minutes of breathing atmospheric air. Macular volume was determined by optical coherence tomography, retinal trunk vessel diameters by fundus photography, intraocular pressure by pulse-air tonometry, and arterial blood pressure by sphygmomanometry.

Results.

After initiation of pure oxygen breathing, reductions of 2.6% in RAD (p=0.04) and 11.5% reduction in RVD (p<0.001) were observed while MABP increased by 5.2 mmHg. After resumption of atmospheric air breathing, RAD and RVD rapidly returned to baseline values whereas MABP remained 2.3 mmHg higher than baseline (p=0.04). Macular volume was found to be reduced by 1.2% compared to baseline (p=0.04) at 120 minutes after cessation of pure oxygen breathing and resumption of atmospheric air breathing.

Conclusions.

These results indicate that the vasomotor response of the retinal arteries alone cannot explain the delayed reduction in macular volume after short course of pure oxygen breathing.
The Multinational Undergraduate Teamwork Project
Authors: Escudeiro Nuno Filipe , Escudeiro Paula Maria
Published: August 2012

Societies are experiencing changes in work organization, in part due to the growing ease with which people can collaborate. People with common interests are interacting within heterogeneous teams composed of members from different cultural groups and with distinct skills and backgrounds. Modern economies require professionals to excel in collaboration and communication skills in an international setting. However, these competences are not usually addressed in curricula. In the diverse environment of the current labour markets, it is essential to promote teamwork and communication skills at an international level. In the Multinational Undergraduate Teamwork course, students develop a major project as members of an international team while working at their home institutions. Team members are geographically spread to ensure that the teams are heterogeneous and to promote international cooperation. It is argued that this paradigm can be applied to any project or internship course unit. The results from the pilot programmes support the authors' initial hypothesis that this innovative paradigm significantly promotes the development of soft skills in students.