bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Method to Analyze the Potential of Optical Remote Sensing for Benthic Habitat Mapping
Authors: Garcia Rodrigo , Hedley John , Tin Hoang , Fearns Peter
Published: October 2015

Quantifying the number and type of benthic classes that are able to be spectrally identified in shallow water remote sensing is important in understanding its potential for habitat mapping. Factors that impact the effectiveness of shallow water habitat mapping include water column turbidity, depth, sensor and environmental noise, spectral resolution of the sensor and spectral variability of the benthic classes. In this paper, we present a simple hierarchical clustering method coupled with a shallow water forward model to generate water-column specific spectral libraries. This technique requires no prior decision on the number of classes to output: the resultant classes are optically separable above the spectral noise introduced by the sensor, image based radiometric corrections, the benthos’ natural spectral variability and the attenuating properties of a variable water column at depth. The modeling reveals the effect reducing the spectral resolution has on the number and type of classes that are optically distinct. We illustrate the potential of this clustering algorithm in an analysis of the conditions, including clustering accuracy, sensor spectral resolution and water column optical properties and depth that enabled the spectral distinction of the seagrass Amphibolis antartica from benthic algae.
Simulation of thermal stress and buckling instability in Si/Ge and Ge/Si core/shell nanowires
Authors: Das Suvankar , Moitra Amitava , Bhattacharya Mishreyee , Dutta Amlan
Published: October 2015

The present study employs the method of atomistic simulation to estimate the thermal stress experienced by Si/Ge and Ge/Si, ultrathin, core/shell nanowires with fixed ends. The underlying technique involves the computation of Young’s modulus and the linear coefficient of thermal expansion through separate simulations. These two material parameters are combined to obtain the thermal stress on the nanowires. In addition, the thermally induced stress is perceived in the context of buckling instability. The analysis provides a trade-off between the geometrical and operational parameters of the nanostructures. The proposed methodology can be extended to other materials and structures and helps with the prediction of the conditions under which a nanowire-based device might possibly fail due to elastic instability.
SUSTAINABILITY EFFECTS OF NEXT-GENERATION INTERSECTION CONTROL FOR AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES
Authors: Li Zhixia (Richard) , Chitturi Madhav V. , Yu Lang , Bill Andrea R. , Noyce David A.
Published: October 2015

Transportation sustainability is adversely affected by recurring traffic congestions, especially at urban intersections. Frequent vehicle deceleration and acceleration caused by stop-and-go behaviours at intersections due to congestion adversely impacts energy consumption and ambient air quality. Availability of the maturing vehicle technologies such as autonomous vehicles and Vehicle-To-Vehicle (V2V) / Vehicle-To-Infrastructure (V2I) communications provides technical feasibility to develop solutions that can reduce vehicle stops at intersections, hence enhance the sustainability of intersections. This paper presents a next-generation intersection control system for autonomous vehicles, which is named ACUTA. ACUTA employs an enhanced reservation-based control algorithm that controls autonomous vehicles’ passing sequence at an intersection. Particularly, the intersection is divided into n-by-n tiles. An intersection controller reserves certain time-space for each vehicle, and assures no conflict exists between reservations. The algorithm was modelled in microscopic traffic simulation platform VISSIM. ACUTA algorithm modelling as well as enhancement strategies to minimize vehicle intersection stops and eventually emission and energy consumption were discussed in the paper. Sustainability benefits offered by this next-generation intersection were evaluated and compared with traditional intersection control strategies. The evaluation reveals that multi-tile ACUTA reduces carbon monoxide (CO) and Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 emissions by about 5% under low to moderate volume conditions and by about 3% under high volume condition. Meanwhile, energy consumption is reduced by about 4% under low to moderate volume conditions and by about 12% under high volume condition. Compared with four-way stop control, single-tile ACUTA reduces CO and PM 2.5 emissions as well as energy consumption by about 15% under any prevailing volume conditions. These findings validated the sustainability benefits of employing next-generation vehicle technologies in intersection traffic control. In addition, extending the ACUTA to corridor level was explored in the paper.
A CO-OPERATIVE METHODOLOGY TO ESTIMATE CAR FUEL CONSUMPTION BY USING SMARTPHONE SENSORS
Authors: Astarita Vittorio , Guido Giuseppe , Mongelli Domenico , Giofrè Vincenzo Pasquale
Published: October 2015

The European Commission has recently promoted research programs aimed at finding solutions to the ever more compelling problem of air pollution from road vehicles and has also indicated a better sustainability among the possible impacts of co-operative Intelligent Transportation Systems. In fact, many practical solutions can be developed that allow drivers and management to optimise resources and to contain costs and the emissions of pollutants by applying communication systems between vehicles (Vehicle-to-Vehicle – V2V) and between vehicles and infrastructure (Vehicle-to-Infrastructure – V2I). Along this mainstream this paper present a co-operative system which offer drivers the ability to manage their consumption and driving style, suggesting corrections to the usually adopted behaviour. The new contribution of this paper is both the co-operative approach between drivers to achieve a common goal of a better common energy consumption strategy and a methodology to estimate fuel consumption just by using Satellite data obtained from a simple smartphone. Since the fuel consumption has to be evaluated with regards to the specific vehicle type the system is based also on crowdsourcing of the specific vehicle consumption performances. The paper describes a system that gathers data on fuel consumption from the co-operating drivers that can build together the data set necessary to the system itself once they accept this paper paradigm: crowd sourced co-operation for a smarter and more sustainable transport system.
SETTING THE WEIGHTS OF SUSTAINABILITY CRITERIA FOR THE APPRAISAL OF TRANSPORT PROJECTS
Authors: Cadena Paola Carolina Bueno , Magro José Manuel Vassallo
Published: October 2015

Although the Multi-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) has made progress towards appraising and measuring the performance of smart and sustainable transport projects, it still has important issues that need to be addressed such as the problem associated with incomparable quantities, the inherent subjective qualitative assessment, the complexity of identifying impacts to be included and its measurement method, and the corresponding weights. The issue of trading-off different sustainability criteria is the main unresolved matter. This problem may lead to lack of accuracy in the decision making process. This paper presents a new methodology to set the weights of the sustainability criteria used in the MCDA in order to reduce subjectivity and imprecision. We suggest eliciting criteria weights based on both expert preferences and the importance that the sustainability criteria have in the geographical and social context where the project is developed. This novel methodology is applied to a real case study to quantify sustainable practices associated with the design and construction of a new roadway in Spain. The outcome demonstrates that the approach to the weighting problem has significance and general application in a multi-criteria evaluation process.
Fragility Fractures in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis Compared with the General Population
Authors: Yamamoto Yuri , Turkiewicz Aleksandra , Wingstrand Hans , Englund Martin
Published: October 2015

Objective.

To determine the rate ratios of hip and distal radius fractures in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), hip osteoarthritis (OA), and knee OA.

Methods.

Cohort study using healthcare data (1998–2012) covering the entire population of the Skåne region of Sweden.

Results.

We found an increased rate of hip fracture in both female [standardized fracture rate ratio (SFR) 1.54, 95% CI 1.40–1.70] and male patients with RA (SFR 1.81, 95% CI 1.51–2.17). The hip fracture rate in female OA was reduced by 10–20%, and trochanteric fracture tended to have a higher rate ratio compared with the cervical.

Conclusion.

The 50–80% increased rate of hip fracture adds to the total burden of RA while the shifted distribution of cervical/trochanteric fractures in OA is in support of subchondral bone alterations.
« Opus nature est opus dei ». Potestas regalis et potestas sacerdotalis nella riflessione di giacomo da viterbo
Authors: Tavolaro Gianpiero
Published: October 2015

Cet article étudie le rapport entre pouvoir spirituel et pouvoir temporel dans la pensée de l’augustinien Jacques de Viterbe († 1307/8), à la lumière de l’édition de deux sermones de mortuis inédits, écrits et prononcés entre 1303 et 1305, lorsqu’il était archevêque de Naples. Cette étude vise donc à offrir une interprétation de la pensée politique de Jacques, à travers la lecture diachronique de ses œuvres, à partir de la Disputatio prima de quolibet jusqu’à ses derniers écrits, afin de suivre l’évolution de sa théorie politique, de son ouverture progressive à la perspective de Thomas d’Aquin et de la réception du principe aristotélicien de la naturalitas de la société humaine.
Pupillometry: Cutting Edge Biometrics for Early Intervention in Increased Intracranial Pressure
Authors: John Jennilee St.
Published: October 2015

The pupillometer, a cutting-edge biometric device, is a valuable assessment tool that can aid in the early detection and prompt treatment of neurological abnormalities. Pupil assessment is a critical component of the neurological examination, and manual pupil assessment leaves much room for error. Automated pupillometry improves the quality and reliability of pupillary and neurological assessments, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(10):431–432.
The Language of Scholarship: How to Rapidly Locate and Avoid Common APA Errors
Authors: Freysteinson Wyona M. , Krepper Rebecca , Mellott Susan
Published: October 2015

This article is relevant for nurses and nursing students who are writing scholarly documents for work, school, or publication and who have a basic understanding of American Psychological Association (APA) style. Common APA errors on the reference list and in citations within the text are reviewed. Methods to quickly find and reduce those errors are shared.

J Contin Educ Nurs.
2015;46(10):436–438.
Homocysteine and Neuropsychiatric Disease
Authors: Pana Angela
Published: October 2015

Elevated homocysteine (HCY) is a risk factor for a variety of vascular and neuropsychiatric pathologies. Although long recognized as a contributor to disease, and as an amino acid that is destructive to cell integrity and DNA, agents that were developed specifically to lower homocysteine were not available until very recently. Those agents are mainly composed of B vitamins in their metabolized forms, as they function as coenzymes in the pathway of homocysteine degradation. It is no surprise that hyperhomocysteinemia is most often the result of low B6, B9, or B12 levels; however, blood levels may not always reflect levels in the central nervous system (CNS), where HCY metabolism is most critical. HCY levels may also be normal in the periphery but not reflect CNS levels, where vascular, neuronal, and DNA damage is occurring. This article discusses the basics of HCY, its proposed mechanisms of toxicity, and the clinical consequences of hyperhomocysteinemia.

[
Psychiatr Ann
. 2015;45(9):463–468.]
A Comparison of Accelerometer Accuracy in Older Adults
Authors: Phillips Lorraine J. , Petroski Gregory F. , Markis Natalie E.
Published: October 2015

Older adults’ gait disorders present challenges for accurate activity monitoring. The current study compared the accuracy of accelerometer-detected to hand-tallied steps in 50 residential care/assisted living residents. Participants completed two walking trials wearing a Fitbit® Tracker and waist-, wrist-, and ankle-mounted Actigraph GT1M. Agreement between accelerometer and observed counts was calculated using concordance correlation coefficients (CCC), accelerometer to observed count ratios, accelerometer and observed count differences, and Bland–Altman plots. Classification and Regression Tree analysis identified minimum gait speed thresholds to achieve accelerometer accuracy ≥0.80. Participants’ mean age was 84.2 and gait speed was 0.64 m/s. All accelerometers underestimated true steps. Only the ankle-mounted GT1M demonstrated positive agreement with observed counts (CCC = 0.205). Thresholds for 0.80 accuracy were gait speeds ≥0.56 m/s for the Fitbit and gait speeds ≥0.71 m/s for the ankle-mounted GT1M. Gait speed and accelerometer placement affected activity monitor accuracy in older adults.

[Res Gerontol Nurs. 2015; 8(5):213–219.]
Choroidal Thickness in Eyes With Central Geographic Atrophy Secondary to Stargardt Disease and Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Nunes Renata Portella , Rosa Potyra R. , Giani Andrea , Goldhardt Raquel , Thomas Benjamin , Filho Carlos Alexandre Garcia , Gregori Giovanni , Feuer William , Lam Byron L. , Staurenghi Giovanni , Rosenfeld Philip J.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

Choroidal thickness (CT) measurements from eyes with similar areas of macular geographic atrophy (GA) secondary to age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Stargardt disease (STGD) were compared to determine whether GA from different diseases had a similar or different effect on the underlying subfoveal choroid.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Eyes with the diagnosis of central GA secondary to STGD and AMD were matched, with subfoveal CT measurements obtained from the central B-scan using an enhanced depth imaging protocol. The area of GA was measured using fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging. AMD eyes were divided into those with and without reticular pseudodrusen.

RESULTS:

A total of 22 eyes of 22 patients were included in the STGD and AMD groups and were matched with respect to the area of GA. The mean age of the STGD patients was 48.9 years (standard deviation [SD] = 17.1), and the mean age was 81.8 years (SD = 6.2) for the AMD patients. Mean area measurements of GA for the STGD and AMD groups were 5.4 mm
2
(SD = 4.1) and 5.1 mm
2
(SD = 4.0), respectively (
P
= .83). After adjusting for age and axial length, eyes with STGD had a mean CT measurement greater than the AMD eyes (336.1 µm vs. 198.1 µm, respectively;
P
= .039). However, this difference was driven by AMD eyes with reticular pseudodrusen (RPD) and by a single Stargardt case with a very thick choroid. Eyes with RPD had statistically thinner subfoveal CT measurements when compared with all other groups.

CONCLUSION:

A small but statistically significant increase in the CT of STGD eyes was observed when compared with normal controls and AMD eyes without RPD. However, this small increase in CT was driven by a single case with a markedly thicker choroid within the STGD group, so it is unlikely that a clinically significant difference exists. However, AMD eyes with GA and RPD had significantly thinner subfoveal CT measurements.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:814–822.]
A Central Hyporeflective Subretinal Lucency Correlates With a Region of Focal Leakage on Fluorescein Angiography in Eyes With Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Yannuzzi Nicolas A. , Mrejen Sarah , Capuano Vittorio , Bhavsar Kavita V. , Querques Giuseppe , Freund K. Bailey
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To correlate the appearance of a hyporeflective lucency on spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) with a focal leak on fluorescein angiography (FA) in eyes with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Multimodal imaging of 18 patients with CSC who had hyperreflective fibrin surrounding a hyporeflective lucency on SD-OCT was analyzed to investigate any potential correlation with an active leak on FA. The lucent area was evaluated using en face imaging and followed for resolution of the active leak.

RESULTS:

High-resolution SD-OCT images of the lucency were found to correlate with the active leak. In certain cases, the lucent area could be visualized as communicating with a defect in a pigment epithelial detachment. En face imaging of the lucency revealed a smoke-stack appearance, and resolution of the leak correlated with the disappearance of the lucency on SD-OCT.

CONCLUSION:

Visualization of a lucency within surrounding fibrin may suggest an active leak. En face imaging of the lucency may provide insight into the pathophysiology of the smoke-stack leak on FA.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:832–836.]
Randomized Clinical Trial to Compare Micropulse Photocoagulation Versus Half-dose Verteporfin Photodynamic Therapy in the Treatment of Central Serous Chorioretinopathy
Authors: Kretz Florian T.A. , Beger Isabell , Koch Frank , Nowomiejska Katarrzyna , Auffarth Gerd U. , Koss Michael J.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE:

To evaluate subthreshold diode-laser micropulse (SDM) versus half-dose verteporfin photodynamic therapy (hd-PDT) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC).

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

62 eyes of 62 patients were prospectively followed for changes in fluorescein angiography (FA), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), central macular thickness (CMT), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and contrast visual acuity (CVA) after SDM (n = 20) or hdPDT (n = 24). CSC observation served as control group (n = 18).

RESULTS:

Both treatment groups (60% SDM vs. 66.7% hdPDT) showed significant improvement in reduction of leakage activity compared to the control group (37.5%) at 16 weeks. CMT decreased by 69.7 µm (SDM), 109.8 µm (hdPDT), and 89 µm (control). BCVA improved by +6.7 (SDM group), +8.5 (hdPDT), and +1.5 ETDRS letters (control). CVA was best improved in the hdPDT group. No secondary RPE alterations could be detected by FAF after any intervention.

CONCLUSION:

In comparison to the control group, hdPDT and SDM resulted in reduced leakage activity in FA and enhanced photopic and scotopic visual acuity in patients with CSC.

[
Ophthalmic Surg Lasers Imaging Retina
. 2015;46:837–843.]
Apuntes sobre la elaboración de biombos en la Nueva España
Authors: Baena Zapatero Alberto
Published: October 2015

El artículo reflexiona sobre el origen de la producción de biombos en Nueva España y su relación con el resto de manufacturas de inspiración oriental surgidas en el virreinato. Con este objetivo se interroga sobre en qué momento aparecen los primeros ejemplares, quiénes fueron los responsables de esta innovación y cuáles pudieron ser los principales centros productores.
Una Adoración de los magos firmada por Antonio Castejón: nueva incorporación a su catálogo
Authors: Sáez Vidal Joaquín
Published: October 2015

El autor estudia y da a conocer una obra desconocida del pintor barroco español Antonio Castejón (h. 1634-1696), lienzo que se conserva en la basílica de Santa María de Elche (Alicante).
Biologically-Inspired Models for Attentive Robot Vision
Authors: Jamalian Amirhossein , Hamker Fred H.
Published: October 2015

A rich stream of visual data enters the cameras of a typical artificial vision system (e.g., a robot) and considering the fact that processing this volume of data in real-rime is almost impossible, a clever mechanism is required to reduce the amount of trivial visual data. Visual Attention might be the solution. The idea is to control the information flow and thus to improve vision by focusing the resources merely on some special aspects instead of the whole visual scene. However, does attention only speed-up processing or can the understanding of human visual attention provide additional guidance for robot vision research? In this chapter, first, some basic concepts of the primate visual system and visual attention are introduced. Afterward, a new taxonomy of biologically-inspired models of attention, particularly those that are used in robotics applications (e.g., in object detection and recognition) is given and finally, future research trends in modelling of visual attention and its applications are highlighted.
A Generic Design for Implementing Intersection between Triangles in Computer Vision and Spatial Reasoning
Authors: Sabharwal Chaman L. , Leopold Jennifer L.
Published: October 2015

The intersection between 3D objects plays a prominent role in spatial reasoning, and computer vision. Detection of intersection between objects can be based on the triangulated boundaries of the objects, leading to computing triangle-triangle intersection. Traditionally there are separate algorithms for cross and coplanar intersection. For qualitative reasoning, intersection detection is sufficient, actual intersection is not necessary; in contrast, the precise intersection is required for geometric modeling. Herein we present a complete design and implementation of a single integrated algorithm independent of the type of intersection. Additionally, this algorithm first detects, then intersects and classifies the intersections using barycentric coordinates. This work is directly applicable to: (1) VRCC-3D+, which uses intersection detection between 3D objects as well as their 2D projections essential for occlusion detection; and (2) CAD/CAM geometric modeling where curves of intersection between a pair of surfaces are required for numerical control machines. Experimental results are provided.
Multiple Object Tracking by Scale Space Representation of Objects, Method of Linear Assignment, and Kalman Filter
Authors: Ray Kumar S. , Ghosh Soma , Chatterjee Kingshuk , Ganguly Debayan
Published: October 2015

This chapter presents a multi-object tracking system using scale space representation of objects, the method of linear assignment and Kalman filter. In this chapter basically two very prominent problems of multi object tracking have been resolved; the two prominent problems are (i) irrespective of the size of the objects, tracking all the moving objects simultaneously and (ii) tracking of objects under partial and/or complete occlusion. The primary task of tracking multiple objects is performed by the method of linear assignment for which few cost parameters are computed depending upon the extracted features of moving objects in video scene. In the feature extraction phase scale space representation of objects have been used. Tracking of occluded objects is performed by Kalman filter.
Scalable Video Watermarking
Authors: Sahu Nilkanta , Sur Arijit
Published: October 2015

In recent times, enormous advancement in communication as well as hardware technologies makes the video communication very popular. With the increasing diversity among the end using media players and its associated network bandwidth, the requirement of video streams with respect to quality, resolution, frame rate becomes more heterogeneous. This increasing heterogeneity make the scalable adaptation of the video stream in the receiver end, a real problem. Scalable video coding (SVC) has been introduced as a countermeasure of this practical problem where the main video stream is designed in such a hierarchical fashion that a set of independent bit streams can be produced as per requirement of different end using devices. SVC becomes very popular in recent time and consequently, efficient and secure transmission of scalable video stream becomes a requirement. Watermarking is being considered as an efficient DRM tool for almost a decade. Although video watermarking is regarded as a well focused research domain, a very less attention has been paid on the scalable watermarking in recent times. In this book chapter, a comprehensive survey on the scalable video watermarking has been done. The main objective of this survey work is to analyse the robustness of the different existing video watermarking scheme against scalable video adaptation and try to define the research problems for the same. Firstly, few existing scalable image watermarking schemes are discussed to understand the advantages and limitations of the direct extension of such scheme for frame by frame video watermarking. Similarly few video watermarking and some recent scalable video watermarking are also narrated by specifying their pros and cons. Finally, a summary of this survey is presented by pointing out the possible countermeasure of the existing problems.
Data Warehouse and Data Virtualization
Authors: Mukherjee Kanishka
Published: October 2015

This chapter contains as well as illustrates different innovations that is changing the way Clinical Drug Development and Safety organizations perceives IT and the ways and means through which these innovations are facilitating the change in business itself. The main content contains illustrations of two structurally different means to create data warehouses, the benefits of the approaches and the difficulties. It also explains the importance of data virtualization technology when implemented in the Clinical and Safety Organizations.
Impact of Human Exome Sequencing on Clinical Research
Authors: Acharya Anu , Kannan Shibichakravarthy , Kumar Brajendra , Khurana Jasmine , Patil Sushma , Tanikella Geethanjali
Published: October 2015

Recent advances in human exome sequencing and the associated advantages have made it a technology of choice in various domains. The savings in time, cost and data storage compared with whole genome sequencing make this technology a potential game changer in clinical research settings. Recent advances in NGS have made it feasible to use exome sequencing in clinical research for identifying novel and rare variants that can lead to change in protein structure and function which may finally culminate into a totally different phenotype. If whole exome is not desired the same technology can be used for studying target exonic regions to investigate causative genes for a specific phenotype associated with disease. Exome sequencing has emerged as an effective and efficient tool for the translational and clinical research. There is a demand for systematically storing variant information in large databanks. Meaningful information from the exome-seq data can be combined with other data. This can be correlated with clinical findings within a clinical trial setting for a better study outcome.
Agile Methodology of Development and How to be Compliant
Authors: Subramaniam Yerramalli , Pal Avik , Dey Arindam
Published: October 2015

Given that Agile software development is preferred methodology for products and services in life science industry, in this chapter we will describe how to adopt Agile software development process and still be compliant. We will focus on few Agile methodologies and provide details on what design controls we can adopt in order for the product and process to be compliant. We will also focus on some of the tools that can be used to help put such design and process control in place where we can have complete transparency and traceability.
Building Mobile Social Presence for U-Learning
Authors: Tu Chih-Hsiung , McIsaac Marina S. , Sujo-Montes Laura E. , Armfield Shadow
Published: October 2015

Mobile learning environments are human networks that afford learners the opportunity to participate in creative endeavors, social networking, organize and reorganize social contents, learner-created cognitive space, and manage social acts anytime and anywhere through mobile technologies. Social interaction with mobile technology is very different from Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC) or Web 2.0 networking technologies. Effective mobile interaction focuses on social-context awareness by integrating location-based technology, which is unique to mobile technology, not easily found in other types of commuting. This chapter proposes a model for mobile social presence consisting of four dimensions: enriching social context-awareness, managing location-based communication, personalizing multi-layered interactivity, and optimizing digital and social identities. Under each dimension there are a few suggested strategies or tips to assist educators in integrating them into their mobile instructions to enhance the mobile-social presence of learners.
Mobile Technology and Learner Autonomy in Language Learning
Authors: Djoub Zineb
Published: October 2015

Mobile-Assisted Language Learning (MALL) provides learners with the chance to experience new learning modes that go beyond the classroom context, offering them more flexibility, learning choices in terms of language content, ways of its delivery, learning space, and time, thereby enhancing their learning autonomy. But how are English teachers using MALL? In the attempt to answer this question, a survey is carried out with a sample of 42 English teachers. The results show that the limited use of such devices is not likely to help the learners develop autonomy since it does not go beyond the objective of enhancing their knowledge of this language. This study also reveals learners' difficulties in using these devices, the skills needed, and the kind of support these teachers require. In light of these findings, a list of recommendations is suggested to enhance MALL.
E-Learning, Mobility, and Time
Authors: Terras Melody M. , Ramsay Judith
Published: October 2015

Psychological theory and research has contributed to the characterisation and resolution of numerous applied problems in educational and technological contexts. In this chapter, the authors consider psychological theory and research concerning time and discuss how it can inform the understanding of the temporal dimension of mobile learning. Mobile learning presents a number of specific psychological challenges to learners (Terras & Ramsay, 2012), and in this chapter, the authors explore those psychological influences that are time-based. Specifically, they highlight the importance of considering the psychological dimension of time (i.e. how it is perceived and experienced) and illustrate how the subjective experience of time influences the mobile learning experience. The authors identify eight important psychological factors that educational developers and technologists alike should seek to manage in the quest for successful mobile learning. In doing so, they characterise the psychological infrastructure that is required to support the temporal aspects of mobile learning. In particular, the authors highlight the importance of time perception and time management skills as learners need to monitor and allocate their time appropriately across the learning task. Mobile learners also require good meta-cognitive awareness, and they require a high degree of meta-cognitive skills in order to effectively monitor and control their environment and thereby their learning. The discussion highlights the psychological challenges that learners, education providers, and software developers need to overcome in order to address the temporal demands of elearning and maximise the potential of mobile learning.
Recognizing Value of Mobile Device for Learning
Authors: Park Young , Jung YongJu
Published: October 2015

This study defines a mobile device as a contemporary learning tool and learning environment and focuses on the factors' influencing on users' perceptions of mobile learning and the characteristics of informal learning available for a use of mobile device for learning. The major findings are the following: First, the longer participants are engaged with mobile device, the more they will view that mobile device as valuable for learning. Next, whoever defines knowledge in a broader sense expects to use mobile devices longer time and in turn see the value of that device for learning more positively. Users' initial learning-related perception seems to influence their recognition and behavior toward mobile learning. Lastly, participants' major learning activities are self-directed while incidental learning is also meaningfully recognized. Participants' recognition of incidental learning can predict one's recognition of the value of mobile devices for learning.
Securing Biometrics Using Watermarking
Authors: Bedi Punam , Bansal Roli , Sehgal Priti
Published: October 2015

This chapter focuses on the role of watermarking techniques in biometric systems. Biometric systems are automated systems of verifying or recognizing the identity of a living person based on a physiological or behavioral characteristic. While biometric-based techniques have inherent advantages over other authentication techniques, ensuring the security and integrity of data is a major concern. Data hiding techniques are thus used in biometric systems for securing biometric data itself. Amongst all the biometric techniques, fingerprint-based identification is the oldest and the most well established method used in numerous applications because fingerprints are unique and they remain unchanged during the human life span. However, fingerprint images should be watermarked without affecting their quality and their minutia matching ability. Moreover, if the watermark embedded in the fingerprint image is the face image of the same individual, the watermarking scheme will have two levels of security such that it will not only protect the cover fingerprint but also provides a more secure system of personal recognition and authentication at the receiver's end. This work finds application in a number of security implementations based on multimodal biometric authentication. Computationally intelligent techniques can be employed to develop efficient watermarking algorithms in terms of watermarked image quality and distortion tolerance ability.
Podcasting as a Mobile Learning Technology
Authors: Rosell-Aguilar Fernando
Published: October 2015

Despite the fact that portability was perceived as one of the major benefits of podcasting as a teaching and learning tool, little evidence has been found of users taking advantage of this feature for academic use. This paper reports on a major study (1886 responses) of iTunes U users. The analysis compares the responses of those participants who use static devices to play the materials they download with those of users who utilise mobile devices. The results show that more users play iTunes U materials from mobile devices than static devices. Users share some similarities in their use of podcasts but some marked differences as well, in contrast with previous research. The author argues that different perceptions and practices are based on whether the users are formal or informal learners and discuss the implications for the use of podcasting as a mobile learning technology.
Evaluating a Mobile and Online System for Apprentices' Learning Documentation in Vocational Education
Authors: Cattaneo Alberto A. P. , Motta Elisa , Gurtner Jean-Luc
Published: October 2015

In Switzerland, 99% of teenagers own a mobile phone and use it as their primary spare-time activity. Exploiting the affordances that mobile devices have for fostering learning across contexts is therefore imperative for the educational community. This is especially true in the case of dual vocational education and training (VET) – a field under-investigated with respect to mobile learning – where apprentices alternate between a company and vocational school. After introducing the major issues characterising mobile learning and their relevance to the VET context, the paper presents a project involving apprentice chefs and their teacher, with the aim of exemplifying and exploring VET learning between workplace and classroom, as a conversation between the learner, the teacher and the in-company trainer, and to evaluate the results of its implementation in terms of usability, effectiveness, and satisfaction.
A System for the Semi-Automatic Evaluation of Clinical Practice Guideline Indicators
Authors: Quimbaya Alexandra Pomares , Amórtegui María Patricia , González Rafael A. , Muñoz Oscar , Bohórquez Wilson Ricardo , García Olga Milena , Ascanio Melany Montagut
Published: October 2015

This paper presents EXEMED v2, a system that allows the evaluation of clinical practice guideline indicators. EXEMED v2 includes a knowledge base that supports the definition of executable rules applied over Electronic Health Records (EHR) in order to measure its compliance with a specific clinical guideline. Taking into account that an EHR may include structured attributes and narrative text attributes, EXEMED v2 analyzes both types. The process of evaluation in EXEMED v2 is to define the rules; once the rules are defined EXEMED v2 extracts from the EHR the facts that allow evaluating whether each one of them was accomplished or not. This evaluation includes different levels of certainty, allowing in some cases the interaction of a human evaluator to confirm (or not) automatic evaluation decisions. The functionality of EXEMED v2 was validated applying it in a case study of Acute Myocardial Infarction.
An Analysis of the Education Category in App Markets
Authors: Özdemir Şebnem , Akadal Emre , Reis Zerrin Ayvaz
Published: October 2015

Mobile device usage highly increases in last years. Most people use mobile devices to do their computer works like checking e-mail, following social media, surfing on the Web, etc. Also mobile devices let one install new applications on one's devices. Two huge mobile operating systems—Android and iOS—have mobile application markets to offer new applications to users. There are many application categories in mobile application markets. One of them is “Education” category. This study defines what kind of applications in education category there are. All applications in this category were reviewed and analysed with descriptive methods.
Implementing Linguistic Landscape Investigations with M-Learning for Intercultural Competence Development
Authors: Waliński Jacek Tadeusz
Published: October 2015

Portable multimedia devices shape the intensity of intercultural contacts not only through content consumption but also through content creation. Enabling learners to participate in content exchange via the Web 2.0 paradigm (audiences as both media consumers and media creators) can be employed to create new forms of acquiring knowledge. This study demonstrates an application of m-learning in a situated in-the-field examination of cultural diversity with the Linguistic Landscape approach. The application is shown from the pedagogical perspective of authentic, informal learning activities conducted in the framework of connectivism. The examination of cultural diversity is conducted in the context of a local environment, i.e. a location familiar to learners. This paper presents a scenario of m-learning activities intended to demonstrate that cultural awareness is often biased by subjective perspectives and stereotypes. Autonomous discovery of this phenomenon results in elevation of learners' openness toward other cultures, which contributes to intercultural competence development.
Integrating Mobile Learning in an Undergraduate Course
Authors: Ishtaiwa Fawzi
Published: October 2015

This study investigated students' perceptions towards the affordances and challenges of integrating mobile learning (m-learning) into an undergraduate course. It also examined the impact of students' gender on their perceived affordances and challenges. The relationship between students' perceived affordances and perceived challenges of m-learning was also explored. Questionnaires distributed to 76 students and semi-structured interviews conducted with 17 students were used for collecting data to answer the research questions. The results revealed that students' perceptions towards the affordances of m-learning were particularly positive. They indicated that m-learning can provide an active, flexible, contextualised, and situated learning environment. However, several challenges are associated with m-learning integration. Most notable are: distraction, small device screens, plagiarism, cost, and parents' negative attitudes toward m-learning. The study also revealed that students' gender significantly impacted on the perceived affordances and challenges of m-learning. Finally, a negative significant correlation was found between mobile technology affordances and challenges.
The Use of Ubiquitous Learning for Children with Down Syndrome
Authors: Sujo-Montes Laura E. , Armfield Shadow , Yen Cherng-Jyh , Tu Chih-Hsiung
Published: October 2015

Ubiquitous computing is opening new opportunities for learning. Researchers and philosophers are still debating what learning theory best explains computer ubiquitous learning. Meanwhile, as it has happened many times throughout history, individuals with disabilities are not able to benefit from such advances until late in the adoption curve. This chapter discusses (a) several learning theories that have the potential to explain computer ubiquitous learning, (b) uses of computer ubiquitous learning for and by individuals with Down syndrome, and (c) a new emerging model for computer ubiquitous learning.
Augmentative and Alternative Communication for Learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Authors: Pirtle Jody M. , West Elizabeth A.
Published: October 2015

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) is a prominent component in the development of support services for learners with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). In this chapter, the authors provide parents, educators, researchers, academics, and other professionals with the most up to date and innovative information as well as practical resources regarding AAC for learners with ASD. Emphasis will be on school-age children diagnosed with ASD. Features of AAC systems as well as the benefits and challenges are presented to provide the reader with information on the current state of the field. The chapter concludes with directions for future research and provides a comprehensive list of resources and organizations.
The Impacts of Distance Interactivity on Learners' Achievements in Online Mobile Language Learning
Authors: Mellati Morteza , Khademi Marzieh
Published: October 2015

The expansion of technological applications such as computers and mobile phones in the past three decades has impacted our life from different perspectives. Language teaching is no exception and like other fields of study, language teaching has also influenced by new language teaching sources and software. More recently, there has been a passionate debate about the usefulness of the smart-phones for educational purposes and their possible uses in English language instruction; therefore, the present study investigated the impacts of interactivity perceptions on EFL learners' achievements in Online Mobile Language Learning (OMLL) course. To conduct the present study, 68 Iranian intermediate EFL learners were chosen among which 43 participated in Online Mobile Language Learning (OMLL) course and 25 others participated in conventional language classrooms. The results of the study demonstrated that OMLL has significant effects on learners' achievements; however, there are some challenges in conducting online mobile language learning (OMLL) courses in Iranian EFL context.
Promoting Human-Computer Interaction and Usability Guidelines and Principles through Reflective Journal Assessment
Authors: Issa Tomayess , Isaias Pedro
Published: October 2015

This chapter aims to examine the challenges to, and opportunities for, promoting Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and usability guidelines and principles through reflective journal assessment by information systems students from the Australian and Portuguese higher education sectors. In order to raise students' awareness of HCI and aspects of usability, especially in the Web development process, a new unit was developed by the first researcher called Information Systems 650 (IS650) in Australia. From this unit was derived the Web Site Planning and Development (WSPD) course introduced in Portugal. The reflective journal assessment approach was employed to enhance students' learning and knowledge of HCI and its usability aspects. This study provides empirical evidence from 64 students from Australia and Portugal, based on quantitative and qualitative data derived from three sources: students' formal and informal feedback and an online survey. Students confirmed that the use of reflective journal assessment consolidated their understanding of HCI and usability guidelines and principles and improved their reading, searching, researching, and writing skills, and their proficiency with the endnote software.
Students' Kinaesthetic Interactions with a Touch-Enabled Virtual Mapping Tool
Authors: Prodromou Theodosia , Meletiou-Mavrotheris Maria , Kyriakides Andreas O.
Published: October 2015

Recent technology advances have substantially changed the way we teach and learn mathematics providing educators with opportunities for creating novel inquiry-based learning environments by increasing the range and sophistication of possible classroom activities. The affordances provided by mobile technologies can motivate students to engage in authentic problem solving activities that can promote their mathematical learning, and the attainment of important competencies essential in modern society. This chapter reports on the main experiences gained from a study that exploited affordances of tablet devices used by young students (11-year old). Findings from the study indicate that general purpose apps such as Recce that was employed in the current study can scaffold learning of the mathematics curriculum in educationally powerful ways that engage students and promote their mathematical growth.
Effectiveness of Using Mobile Technologies in Teaching and Learning
Authors: Yusuf Olalere Mudasiru , Lawal Bolanle Idayat , Oyewusi Mary Bose
Published: October 2015

This chapter examines the effectiveness of using mobile technologies in teaching and learning in a Nigerian university. The study explores the techniques that guide undergraduate students to learn with digital support from mobile devices and wireless communication during their classroom activities. This research focuses on mobile phones because of their accessibility to students and lecturers. The researchers investigate the types of mobile application used by students, the time spent on using the devices for learning, and the effectiveness of using mobile technology in teaching and learning. The research is a descriptive cross-sectional survey. Three research questions are raised, and the respondents are 100 undergraduate students of the educational technology programme. Frequency count, percentages, and mean are used for data analysis. It is revealed that students often use their mobile phones for academic purposes, and the academic performance of students can be improved through the use of mobile phones to solve classroom questions. The time spent on using mobile phones for the learning process is also unveiled, and recommendations are made based on the researchers' findings.
Developing Faculty to Effectively Use Mobile Learning Technologies in Collegiate Classes
Authors: Newman Richard E. , Miller Michael T. , Grover Kenda S.
Published: October 2015

Mobile devices have become a common accessory for many college students, and with the habits and tendencies that have formed from frequent use, colleges have begun to incorporate mobile devices into the delivery of education. As mobile learning has grown as a teaching strategy, some faculty have found it difficult to adapt to open access to computing, and others have simply attempted to ignore the new reliance on technology. Department chairs are uniquely situated to bridge the world of technology and the contemporary campus, and through strategic and intentional faculty development, they have the potential to successfully bring mobile learning to higher education. Throughout the chapter, strategies outline how to use adult learning to build faculty development programs that encourage the effective use of m-learning as an instructional strategy.