bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radial Shock Wave Therapy in Patients with Lateral Epicondylitis
Authors: Ilieva Elena M. , Minchev Roumen M. , Petrova Nedyalka S.
Published: February 2013

Introduction: Lateral epicondylitis, or “tennis elbow”, is a relatively common disorder.
Various therapeutic modalities have been tried in an attempt to manage the disorder but
neither the conservative methods nor the surgical options have proved to be benefi cial so
far. During the past decade in the USA and European countries and the past several years
in Bulgaria, the shock wave therapy (focused and radial) has been introduced as a method
of choice in the treatment of chronic tendynopathies.

The AIM of the present study was to make quantitative assessment of the effect of radial
shockwave therapy in patients with lateral epicondylitis.

PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 16 patients with lateral epicondylitis (9 males,
7 females, mean age 47.2 ± 2.3 yrs) of mean duration of 15.06 ± 4.06 months. We used
the BTL-5000 radial shockwave therapy equipment and performed 5 procedures (one per
week). The total number of shocks was 2500, the pressure was 2 Bars: 1500 shocks of 5 Hz
frequency followed by 500 shocks of 10 Hz frequency were applied locally on the lateral
epicondyle and 500 shocks of 2 Bar pressure and 5 Hz frequency were applied along the
muscles near the insertion. The patients were evaluated 5 times: before treatment, immediately
after the end of treatment and at 3, 6 and 12 months of follow-up. Pain was assessed
at rest, on palpation and by the Thomsen test using a visual analogue scale (VAS).
The patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE) questionnaire was used to assess the
patients‘ pain, functional condition and limitations in performing specifi c activities, as well
as for the overall self evaluation.

RESULTS: We found signifi cant difference (p < 0.05) between the mean pain scores (at rest,
on palpation and by Thomsen test) before treatment and these scores obtained immediately
after treatment, the decrease sustained at 3, 6 and 12 months. VAS showed decrease from
3.75 ± 0.49 before therapy to 2.44 ± 0.39 after treatment, to 1.94 ± 0.46 at 3 months and to
0.69 ± 0.38 at one year at rest, from 7.44 ± 0.38 before therapy to 4.69 ± 0.51 after treatment,
to 3.56 ± 0.40 at 3 months and 1.46 ± 0.56 at one year at palpation, and from 5.87 ±
0.46 before therapy to 3.5 ± 0.29 after it, to 2.5 ± 0.40 at 3 months and 1 ± 0.38 at one year
in the Thomsen test.

The pain, function and the total score as assessed on the patient-rated scale (PRTEE) also
showed statistically signifi cant improvement (p < 0.05) after completion of therapy and
over the whole follow-up. Total score decreased from 56.75 ± 2.34 before therapy to 39.38 ±
3.96 after treatment, to 27.53 ± 3.7 at 3 months and to 13.69 ± 4.48 at one year.

CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this preliminary study we could recommend the radial
shock wave therapy in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis of more than 6 months‘ duration
if the condition is recalcitrant to other conservative methods of treatment.
The effect of various light conditions and different nitrogen forms on nitrogen metabolism in pepper fruits
Authors: Kołton Anna , Wojciechowska Renata , Leja Maria
Published: February 2013

The ‘Spartacus’ F1 sweet pepper was grown in a plastic tunnel on rockwool during 2006-2008. A fertigation technique was used for water and fertiliser application. The tunnel was divided into two parts covered with different plastic films. The first part of the tunnel was covered with a film that transmitted less light than the film covering the second part. In both parts of the tunnel, the plants were divided into two groups. One group of plants was fertilised with just nitrate nitrogen (100% N-NO3) and the other one with three forms of nitrogen (N-NO3:N-NH4:N-NH2 in a ratio of 50:13:37). Fruits were harvested mature green and red. Concentrations of nitrate and ammonium ions as well as total nitrogen and free amino acids were analysed in the plant material. Nitrate and nitrite reductase activities were also investigated, and dry matter content and soluble sugars were also determined. Higher light intensity increased nitrate concentration in red pepper fruits but decreased ammonium ion content. These tendencies were not as obvious in green fruits. In most cases, red fruits fertilised with three nitrogen forms accumulated more nitrates than those fertilised with N-NO3. This observation was similar in the case of green fruits. In most cases, pepper fruits accumulated more ammonium ions in the case of N-NO3 fertilisation than when three forms of nitrogen were applied, but the differences were not always statistically significant. Higher nitrate reductase activity was observed in the case of better light conditions as well as mixed nitrogen fertilisation in red pepper fruits. No differences were observed in the case of nitrite reductase activity between fruits harvested from various treatments in red and also green fruits, with some exceptions. The green fruits of pepper had higher nitrate reductase activity than the red ones. It can be summarised that various light conditions influenced the nitrogen metabolism of pepper fruits as well as the different nitrogen forms applied with fertilisers.
Magnetic stimulation of marigold seed
Authors: Afzal I. , Mukhtar K. , Qasim M. , Basra S.M.A. , Shahid M. , Haq Z.
Published: February 2013

The effects of magnetic field treatments of French marigold seeds on germination, early seedling growth and biochemical changes of seedlings were studied under controlled conditions. For this purpose, seeds were exposed to five different magnetic seed treatments for 3 min each. Most of seed treatments resulted in improved germination speed and spread, root and shoot length, seed soluble sugars and a-amylase activity. Magnetic seed treatment with 100 mT maximally improved germination, seedling vigour and starch metabolism as compared to control and other seed treatments. In emergence experiment, higher emergence percentage (4-fold), emergence index (5-fold) and vigorous seedling growth were obtained in seeds treated with 100 mT. Overall, the enhancement of marigold seeds by magnetic seed treatment with 100 mT could be related to enhanced starch metabolism. The results suggest that magnetic field treatments of French marigold seeds have the potential to enhance germination, early growth and biochemical parameters of seedlings.
Rheological behaviour of heated potato starch dispersions
Authors: Juszczak L. , Witczak M. , Ziêba T. , Fortuna T.
Published: February 2013

The study was designed to investigate the rheological properties of heated potato starch dispersions. Water suspensions of starch were heated at 65, 80 or 95°C for 5, 15, 30 or 60 min. The dispersions obtained were examined for granule size distribution and rheology. It was found that the starch dispersions significantly differed in both respects. The mean diameters of starch granules were largest for the dispersion heated at 65°C and smallest for that heated at 95°C. As the heating temperature was raised, the yield stresses and consistency coefficients decreased, while the flow behaviour indexes and Casson plastic viscosities increased. There were also differences in the viscoelastic properties of the dispersions: for those heated at 65°C the storage and loss moduli increased with heating time whereas for those heated at 80°C both moduli decreased.
Probabilistic Load Model for Ship-Bridge Collision Using Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Lim Jeong-Hyun , Park Wonsuk , Kim Hyun-Joong , Koh Hyun-Moo
Published: February 2013

In designing a bridge crossing navigable waterway, ship-bridge collision is the one of the critical extreme events. Due to its inherent uncertainties, probabilistic design approaches have been mainly adopted, in which the probability of failure or collapse of the whole bridge system should be estimated. Therefore, it is crucial that appropriate probabilistic models should be employed for collision loads and resistances of the piers. In this paper, a method is presented for developing probabilistic load models for ship-bridge collision. The difficulties arise from the fact that the resultant collision force, which is a function of other random variables such as speed of a ship, collision angle and position, etc. Furthermore, statistical data of actual ship-bridge collision events are very rare. Thus, a simulation based approach is proposed for the probabilistic load model for ship-bridge collision. The collision force model is derived from the combination of the probability of the collision event and the conditional probability distribution of the impact load of each collision case. In this approach, models are also incorporated for initial ship position, aberrance probability and human intervention stopping ship before collision. For the impact load,

uncertainties such as collision angles, velocities and the weight of colliding ship are also considered. The final probabilistiy distribution of collision load is constructed based on Monte Carlo simulation method. A numerical example of an actual cable-stayed bridge is presented for the demonstration of the proposed model.
Yi Sun-sin Bridge: Construction of Two Different Anchorage Systems
Authors: Kim Kyung Taek , Song Chi Yong , Shin Young Soo
Published: February 2013

The Yi Sun-sin Bridge is a three-span suspension bridge with a length of 1545m. Two different types of anchorage systems, i.e., the rock-anchored type and the gravity-type, are applied.

For the first time in Korea, the rock-anchored type with minimum rock excavation is applied to reduce environmental damage. In this anchorage system, the accuracy of the drilling inclination for each anchor hole is very important. In order to minimize the error occurred in rock drilling, the stiffness of the drilling rods should be increased using stiffened casings.

For the gravity-type anchorage, a circular slurry wall is used to eliminate the need for an earth support system. During the excavation process, the inner side of the slurry wall is constructed using a top-down method to improve the stability of the wall. The filling material of the inner anchorage was changed from aggregate to RCC (Roller Compacted Concrete) in order to improve its constructability and stability.
Long-term Dynamic Monitoring of an Iron Arch Bridge
Authors: Busatta Fulvio , Gentile Carmelo
Published: February 2013

A multi-channel dynamic monitoring system has been recently installed in a centenary iron arch bridge that crosses the Adda river about 50 km far from Milan: the San Michele bridge. The paper describes the monitoring system and the signal processing tools developed in LabVIEW for automatic processing of the collected data. The implemented routines include the automated identification of the bridge’s modal parameters by using the Frequency Domain Decomposition method. The application of this procedure to the data collected in the first weeks of monitoring turned out to provide a clear and robust tracking of more than 20 natural frequencies.
The Bond Characteristics of Deformed Bar Embedded in Biaxial Hollow Slabs according to the Hollow shapes.
Authors: Kang Sung-Hoon , Chung Joo-Hong , Lee Seung-Chang , Choi Chang-Sik
Published: February 2013

This study investigated the bond characteristics of embedded deformed bar in biaxial hollow slabs with donut type hollow shapes. The hollow shapes are consist of the radius of curvature and the hole diameter. In biaxial hollow slabs, bond capacity is different from general RC slab because the void of slab might reduce the area of the deformed bar surrounding concrete. Therefore, FEM analysis was performed to find out the effect of hollow shape on the bond characteristics of deformed bar. Bond characteristics of biaxial hollow slabs were investigated according to the bond region of hollow shape using the nonlinear finite element program LUSAS. The main parameter was the distance between void and deformed bar. To investigate the bond characteristics, hollow slab was divided into 3 sections according to the distance between void and deformed bar such as sufficient region, transition region and insufficient region.
Tubular trusses with K-joints in bridges
Authors: Hubmann Michael , Euler Mathias , Kuhlmann Ulrike
Published: February 2013

This paper gives an overview of the state of the art of designing welded K-joints in tubular trusses under fatigue loading and presents first results of a running research project dealing with the fatigue resistance of thickwalled K-joints. In this research project K-joints with a particularly favourable weld configuration are investigated.
3D Based Parametric Modeling for Automatic Fitting of Longitudinal Girder Shape and Placing Rebar in FCM Bridge
Authors: An HyunJung , Lee Sang-Ho
Published: February 2013

This study proposes a parametric modeling method for efficient design in early step of FCM (Free Cantilever Method) bridges which has variational section. Parameters for forming longitudinal shape of box girder are defined, and then constraints and functional relation between the parameters are defined according to some design guidelines and statics of parameters in existing FCM bridge designs. In addition, the relations between longitudinal shape and placing rebar are defined. Some case studies are demonstrated to show how to model the sample bridge with the constraints and relations by changing only one or a few parameters. Finally, material quantity of the sample bridge model generated by parametric modeling is calculated and comparing to real quantity to validate the accuracy of the model by parametric modeling.
Research on Stress State in Composite Bridge Deck System with Orthotropic Steel Deck and Thin Reactive Powder Concrete Layer
Authors: Cao Junhui , Shao Xudong , Zhang Zhe , Chen Bin , Huang Zhengyu
Published: February 2013

To treat with fatigue cracking problem in orthotropic steel deck and damage in asphalt pavement on it comprehensively, an innovative composite deck with orthotropic steel deck and thin reactive powder concrete was presented in this paper. Study was emphasized on stress state in the new composite bridge deck system. In research, calculation based on finite element models were carried out to compare stress state in two kinds of bridge deck system, namely, the traditional steel deck with asphalt overlay and the composite deck with thin RPC layer. Calculation result shows that stress in the deck plate and the longitudinal stiffer decreases greatly when the RPC layer is adopted, with the decreasing amplitude reaching 46.44 % - 82.39 %. This is helpful to diminish the risk of fatigue cracking in the steel deck. Then a full-scale composite deck model was made for load test to reveal its static performance. In experiment, the composite deck system performed well without any crack appearing in the RPC layer even though the maximum tensile strain in it reached as large as 955 με. Research in this paper is meaningful for exploiting an efficient new way to extending service life of the orthotropic steel deck and its pavement.
Characterization of ikaite (CaCO3·6H2O) crystals in first-year Arctic sea ice north of Svalbard
Authors: Nomura Daiki , Assmy Philipp , Nehrke Gernot , Granskog Mats A. , Fischer Michael , Dieckmann Gerhard S. , Fransson Agneta , Hu Yubin , Schnetger Bernhard
Published: February 2013

We identified ikaite crystals (CaCO3·6H2O) and examined their shape and size distribution in first-year Arctic pack ice, overlying snow and slush layers during the spring melt onset north of Svalbard. Additional measurements of total alkalinity (TA) were made for melted snow and sea-ice samples. Ikaite crystals were mainly found in the bottom of the snowpack, in slush and the surface layers of the sea ice where the temperature was generally lower and salinity higher than in the ice below. Image analysis showed that ikaite crystals were characterized by a roughly elliptical shape and a maximum caliper diameter of 201.0±115.9 μm (n = 918). Since the ice-melting season had already started, ikaite crystals may already have begun to dissolve, which might explain the lack of a relationship between ikaite crystal size and sea-ice parameters (temperature, salinity, and thickness of snow and ice). Comparisons of salinity and TA profiles for melted ice samples suggest that the precipitation/dissolution of ikaite crystals occurred at the top of the sea ice and the bottom of the snowpack during ice formation/melting processes.
Numerical modeling of force and contact networks in fragmented sea ice
Authors: Herman Agnieszka
Published: February 2013

In this paper, a molecular-dynamics sea-ice model is used to study contact and force networks in fragmented sea ice, composed of separate floes with power-law size distribution. The momentum equations for individual floes, taking into account floe/floe collisions (with Hertzian contact mechanics), are formulated in a way suitable for a computationally efficient numerical algorithm, allowing simulation of systems of thousands of floes. The simulations are performed for a number of scenarios: pure convergence without wind, through a jamming phase transition; constant wind at a constant ice concentration; and an idealized marginal ice zone. An analysis of the statistical properties of the contact and force networks reveals a highly localized, intermittent character of internal stress in the ice, as well as the role of the size-dependent response of floes to the forcing in formation of spatial patterns of internal stress at lower ice concentrations. The results provide a valuable starting point for formulating improved rheology models for fragmented sea ice.
Extraordinary Magnetoresistance in Semiconductor/Metal Hybrids: A Review
Authors: Sun Jian , Kosel Jürgen
Published: February 2013

The Extraordinary Magnetoresistance (EMR) effect is a change in the resistance of a device upon the application of a magnetic field in hybrid structures, consisting of a semiconductor and a metal. The underlying principle of this phenomenon is a change of the current path in the hybrid structure upon application of a magnetic field, due to the Lorentz force. Specifically, the ratio of current, flowing through the highly conducting metal and the poorly conducting semiconductor, changes. The main factors for the device’s performance are: the device geometry, the conductivity of the metal and semiconductor, and the mobility of carriers in the semiconductor. Since the discovery of the EMR effect, much effort has been devoted to utilize its promising potential. In this review, a comprehensive overview of the research on the EMR effect and EMR devices is provided. Different geometries of EMR devices are compared with respect to MR ratio and output sensitivity, and the criteria of material selection for high-performance devices are discussed.
The Life of Slovenian Exonyms and Their Familiarity in the Professional Community
Authors: Kladnik Drago , Bole David
Published: February 2013

This article examines the lifecycle of Slovenian exonyms in which the characteristic stages are the creation of an exonym, its increasingly frequent use, its frequent and general use, its increasingly rarer use or dying out, death, and being forgotten. The findings of a similar Czech study on exonyms are briefly presented. The presentation of familiarity with Slovenian exonyms is based on an online survey that was carried out in September and October 2010. We received over 160 correctly completed questionnaires. Analyzing them increased our knowledge of familiarity with exonyms for European cities, European islands and archipelagos, and archaic exonyms for European cities that people no longer use today. We also analyzed the degree of familiarity by respondent’s ages and professions.
Endoparasites of Trachurus picturatus (Pisces: Carangidae) from the Madeira and Canary Islands: Selecting parasites for use as tags
Authors: Costa Graça , Garcia Santamaria Maria Teresa , Vasconcelos Joana , Borges Perera Clara , Melo-Moreira Egberto
Published: February 2013

In order to evaluate the use of parasites as biological tags to identify populations of the oceanic horse mackerel, Trachurus picturatus, two samples of 100 fish each, caught off the Madeira and Canary Islands from January to June 2009, were examined for the presence of anisakids, trypanorhynchs, acanthocephalans and liver coccidians. In T. picturatus from Madeira, prevalence of the coccidian Goussia cruciata reached 82%, whereas prevalence of the nematode Anisakis sp., the acanthocephalan Rhadinorhynchus cadenati and the trypanorhynch Nybelinia lingualis were 12.0%, 8.9% and 7.0%, respectively. In samples from the Canary Islands, prevalence of G. cruciata was 8.0%, Anisakis sp. and R. cadenati reached 5.0% and 42.0% respectively, and N. lingualis was not recovered. The absence of N. lingualis and the lower prevalence of Anisakis sp. appear to be related to the smaller size of the oceanic horse mackerels examined from the Canary Islands. Although significant differences in prevalence of two parasites, G. cruciata and R. cadenati, were found between the two regions investigated (χ2=125.13, df=1, p=0.000 and χ2=40.77, df=1, p=0.000), only G. cruciata was considered useful as a biological tag for the identification of populations of T. picturatus. In order to reach sound conclusions, an expansion of the temporal and spatial sampling strategy is recommended.
Fishery and life history of spot-tail mantis shrimp, Squilla mantis (Crustacea: Stomatopoda), in the Gulf of Cadiz (eastern central Atlantic)
Authors: Vila Yolanda , Sobrino Ignacio , Paz Jiménez Mª
Published: February 2013

Squilla mantis is an economically important species that is mainly caught by the Sanlucar de Barrameda bottom trawl fleet in the Gulf of Cadiz (eastern central Atlantic). Annual landings have ranged between 24 t in 1999 and 600 t in 2003, with a mean value of 269 t for the period 1984-2010. Catches have a marked seasonality, peaking in winter and showing the lowest values in summer. Larval abundance was negatively correlated with depth and distance from the coast but positively correlated with sea surface temperature. No correlation with sea surface salinity was found. The highest larval abundance was observed in June at 20-25 m depth, while adults were mostly found at 30-35 m depth. This species is mainly concentrated in the area of influence of the Guadalquivir River but is very scarce in the rest of the study area. The maturation of the ovary and the activity of the sexual accessory glands begin in early winter. The population is age-structured in three year classes and females reach first maturity within the second year class, at 23.7 mm carapace length.
WORKPAD
Authors: Catarci Tiziana , de Leoni Massimiliano , Marrella Andrea , Mecella Massimo , Russo Alessandro , Steinmann Renate , Bortenschlager Manfred
Published: February 2013

In complex emergency/disaster scenarios, persons from teams from various emergency-response organizations collaborate to achieve a common goal. In these scenarios, the use of smart mobile devices and applications can improve the collaboration dynamically. The lack of basic interaction principles can be dangerous, as it could increase the level of disaster or can make the efforts ineffective. This paper examines the main results of the project WORKPAD finished in December 2009. WORKPAD worked on a two-level architecture to support rescue operators during emergency management. The use of a user-centered design methodology during the entire development cycle has guaranteed that the architecture and resulting system meet end-user requirements. The feasibility of its use in real emergencies is also proven by a demonstration showcased with real operators. The paper includes qualitative and quantitative results and presents guidelines that can be useful in developing emergency-management systems.
Change Management in Shared Software Specifications
Authors: Taibi Fathi
Published: February 2013

In order to support the collaborative development of software specifications, there is a need to automate the extraction and integration of the parallel changes or revisions that are made to a shared specification. These revisions are aimed at reaching a specification that satisfies the needs of all the stakeholders. Hence, merging conflicts are inevitable and must be detected and resolved in order to commit the changes made properly to the shared specification leading to a consistent result. A framework is proposed in this chapter to extract and integrate the parallel changes made to Object-Oriented formal specifications in a collaborative development environment. A formal foundation is proposed to uniformly define the specifications, the revisions made to them and the possible merging conflicts. The proposed framework allows extracting and integrating the parallel changes made while addressing a wide range of merging conflicts at the same time. Evaluating the developed algorithms has shown good signs in terms of accuracy and scalability.
Timing Matters
Authors: Gogate Lakshmi , Hollich George
Published: February 2013

What is the nature of sensitive periods in lexical development? In this chapter, the authors propose a novel dynamic view of sensitive periods. They suggest that they are periods of heightened interaction and adaptation between organism and environment that are the emergent result of the changing developmental landscape. In support of this perspective, the authors first provide an extended model of word learning to show that language moves through a predictable sequence of sensitive periods, each serving as a building block for the prior. Next, they show how changes in the timing of sensitive periods can affect early word learning in the case of two populations—preterm infants and children with cochlear implants. Finally, the authors provide a theoretical overview of how typically developing infants move from basic perception to full-blown language across several domains of language, and how changes in the timing of the input and response can lead to changes in developmental outcomes.
A Sensory-Motor Solution to Early Word-Referent Learning
Authors: Yu Chen , Smith Linda B.
Published: February 2013

Many theories of word learning begin with the uncertainty inherent to learning a word from its co-occurrence with a visual scene. However, the relevant visual scene for infant word learning is neither from the adult theorist’s view nor the mature partner’s view, but is rather from the learner’s personal view. Here, the authors review recent studies on 18-month-old infants playing with their parents in a free-flowing interaction. Frame-by-frame analyses of the head camera images at and around naming moments were conducted to determine the visual properties at input that were associated with learning. The main contribution is that toddlers, through their own actions, often create a personal view that consists of one dominating object. Parents often (but not always) name objects during these optimal sensory moments, and when they do, toddlers learn the object name. The results are discussed with respect to early word learning, embodied attention, and robotics.
Development of Word Recognition across Speakers and Accents
Authors: Mulak Karen E. , Best Catherine T.
Published: February 2013

The pronunciation of a given word can contain considerable phonetic variation both within and between speakers, affects, and accents. For reliable word recognition, children must learn to hear through the variation that does not change a word’s identity, while still discerning variation that does not belong to a given word’s identity. This requires knowledge of phonologically specified word invariants above the level of phonemic specification. Reviewing developmental accounts and empirical evidence, this chapter discusses the emergence of children’s ability to attend to speaker- and accent-independent invariants. The authors focus particularly on changes between the ages of 7.5-10.5 months, where evidence points to a developing ability to recognize speech across within-speaker and within-group variation, and 14-19 months, where increasing evidence suggests a shift from phonetically to more phonologically specified word forms. They propose a framework that describes the attentional shifts involved in this progression, with emphasis on methodological concerns surrounding the interpretation of existing research.
iPad Integration in an Elementary Classroom
Authors: Hur Jung Won , Anderson Amy
Published: February 2013

The availability of engaging apps on the iPad and its portability have encouraged many educators to adopt it as a teaching and learning tool in the classroom. However, because iPad integration is new, neither practical guidance nor best practices are yet available. Consequently, the authors integrated 13 iPads into a third grade classroom for a year to facilitate learning while examining how to unlock their full potential. The purpose of this chapter is to present specific elementary-level subject learning lesson ideas for iPads, identifying the advantages and challenges of such integration. They also provide practical tips for mobile technology integration in elementary classrooms.
Using Technology in a Studio Approach to Learning
Authors: Newman Dianna L. , Clure Gary , Deyoe Meghan Morris , Connor Kenneth A.
Published: February 2013

Presented in this chapter are findings related to the use of the Mobile Studio concept in STEM classes including how the use of an innovative technology that replaced traditional equipment in STEM classes was able to increase student learning. Findings also show that the Mobile Studio Learning Platform supports variations in instructional style and goals as well as learning across different content areas and type of implementation. Use of the Mobile Studio was piloted and implemented in multiple undergraduate engineering courses; the pedagogy expanded beyond this original setting to include use in K-14 sites as well as pre-service and in-service training for science teachers. Data from multiple sources are presented in support of the finding that diverse learners with various instructional needs and user characteristics are positively served by the use of student-centered mobile technology within the domain of STEM education.
Going 11 with Laptop Computers in an Independent, Co-Educational Middle and High School
Authors: Milman Natalie B. , Hillarious Marilyn , O’Neill Vince , Walker Bryce
Published: February 2013

This chapter describes some of the findings from a QUAL + QUAN concurrent mixed method study that examined the first-year implementation of a one-to-one (1:1) laptop initiative in a suburban, independent, co-educational middle and high school in the United States. Overall, the 1:1 laptop implementation was viewed as a positive learning experience for students, teachers, staff, and the school administration. Nevertheless, several problems developed over the course of implementation. These were: technical problems, issues with student distraction and off-task behavior, inappropriate uses of technology, as well as challenges to pedagogical and classroom management, and inclusion of teachers’ voices in implementation decisions. They are introduced in addition to several possible solutions. The chapter closes with suggestions for future research, such as the need to research 2:1 and 3:1 mobile technology initiatives, which are sure to become a part of the 21st century teaching and learning landscape.
Virtual Mentors
Authors: Curran Marialice B. F. X. , Chatel Regina G.
Published: February 2013

Social media has the potential to revolutionize teaching, learning, and collaborative partnerships in teacher preparation programs. Traditional mentoring has been conducted in person, via mail, telephone, e-mail, conferences, and typical daily interactions. However, the emergence of social media has led to an exciting development called the iMentor Model, virtual mentoring via social media. Through the iMentor Model, teacher candidates observed 21st century teaching methods that they were not always able to observe locally. The traditional mentor is an advisor, a coach, a facilitator, or a role model. An iMentor demonstrates these qualities as well as embracing multiple social networking platforms in teaching and learning. iMentors model three components of the Saint Joseph College School of Education Conceptual Framework (2010): Rigorous of Mind, Compassionate of Heart, and an Agent of Change in their teaching. This chapter discusses how the use of iMentors brings teacher preparation into the 21st century.
Familial multiple exostosis arising from bones of enchondral as well as membranous (in a family affecting seven members)
Authors: Kambali Maruti , Priyamargavi H , Nazeer Shiek , Mukherjee Debojyothi , Gudi N.S.
Published: February 2013

Familial multiple exostosis in a family of seven members who are affected found that exostosis was arising both from bones of enchondral as well as membranous ossification, which was sessile as well as pedunculated and was larger in size at the growing ends of the bones. The lesions occur only in bones that develop from cartilage (endochondral ossification). In our study, we have noticed lesions occurring in both endochondral as well as membranous bone. Till now, no article has mentioned about membranous origin (clavicle).
Combining mTOR Inhibitors with Chemotherapy and Other Targeted Therapies in Advanced Breast Cancer: Rationale, Clinical Experience, and Future Directions
Authors: Yardley Denise A.
Published: February 2013

Improvements in survival of patients with breast cancer have been attributed to the development of agents that target key components of dysregulated pathways involved in oncogenesis and progression of breast cancer. Aberrant mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) activation has been implicated in oncogenesis, angiogenesis, and the development of estrogen independence and resistance to chemotherapy in breast tumors. Several mTOR inhibitors (sirolimus, everolimus, temsirolimus, and ridaforolimus) have demonstrated antitumor activity in breast cancer cells. Combining mTOR inhibitors with endocrine therapies has demonstrated clinical antitumor activity in patients with metastatic breast cancer. In addition, mTOR inhibitor combinations with various targeted biologic agents or cytotoxic chemotherapeutic agents are being examined in more than 40 clinical trials with some early promising results. Combination therapies targeting multiple components of these central signaling pathways may be an optimal treatment strategy for patients with advanced breast cancer.
The Deutsche Nationalbibliothek Reports: Germany and Austria's Migration Project ‘Moving to MARC 21’
Authors: Leibrecht Veronika
Published: February 2013

With the aim of improving international bibliographic interoperability, in 2004 Germany and Austria initiated a migration from the German data exchange format Maschinelles Austauschformat für Bibliotheken (MAB2) to the Anglo-American format MARC 21. The article outlines the main elements of the project ‘Moving to MARC 21’: a mapping of the data exchange formats MAB2 and MARC 21 to one another to ascertain gaps between the formats, the design of an editorial support system for the translation of MARC 21, and professional information sessions introducing the new format to the library community. Elements from MAB2 considered to be indispensable for exchange were either introduced to the format through Machine-Readable Bibliographic Information committee (MARBI) proposals or where they would not need Germany-wide application, defined in local fields. The project came to completion in June 2009 and has laid the foundation for international data exchange by assimilating processes and eliminating the need for intensive conversion work in Germany and Austria. An incidental but significant aspect of the project was the productive combined efforts of German and Austrian professionals and their Anglo-American partners in successfully overcoming differences in language and bibliographic transport and processing traditions through cooperative problem-solving.
A Novel Method of Starting a 3-Phase Induction Motor with One Phase Out from the Source of Supply
Authors: Basu K. P. , Yusuf Sheeba
Published: February 2013

Connection of supply neutral to the open terminal of a 3-phase induction motor under single phasing condition produces the required phase difference between winding voltages and starting torque is developed. Neutral connection is used only for starting and not for running. Otherwise the current exceeds the rated value even at no-load.
Wideband Linear Varactor Tuning of LC Resonant Circuits
Authors: Grebennikov A. V.
Published: February 2013

Theoretical analysis of the varactor tuning bandwidth characteristics of single and two-coupled resonant circuits with practical recommendations is presented. Highly linear octave-band operation was found to be possible using hyperabrupt varactors in two-coupled resonant circuits. Such a simple analytic approach is useful for practical wideband linear transistor VCO design.
Concepts of Optimum Stability for Linear Feedback Systems
Authors: De Paor Annraoi
Published: February 2013

Based on undergraduate teaching experience in control theory, the concept of gain margin is revised, vector margin systematised and the rudiments of its calculation exposed, and the concept of phase margin is illustrated. Some two-parameter problems are tackled via the Routh array. Concepts of centroid design and generalised vector margin design are discussed and finally, an eigenvalue-based optimum stability idea suggested by root locus analysis is explored.
Teaching Genetic Algorithm Using Matlab
Authors: Cao Y. J. , Wu Q. H.
Published: February 2013

In this paper, an attractive approach for teaching genetic algorithm (GA) is presented. This approach is based primarily on using MATLAB in implementing the genetic operators: crossover, mutation and selection. A detailed illustrative example is presented to demonstrate that GA is capable of finding global or near-global optimum solutions of multi-modal functions. An application of GA in designing a robust controller for uncertain control systems is also given to show its potential in designing engineering intelligent systems.
Displacement Current in a Uniform Coaxial Cable
Authors: Hearne K. R. , Williams E. M.
Published: February 2013

A theoretical analysis is given which determines the displacement current which flows when a semi-infinite, uniform coaxial cable is driven by a sinusoidal voltage generator. By integrating over an appropriate quarter wavelength the displacement current is calculated and this is shown to be equal to the peak conduction current, independent of the frequency. Thus a role is always evident for the displacement current in a coaxial geometry.
A Mini-Project in Power Distribution System Harmonics Analysis and Effect of Harmonic Filter Installation
Authors: Chung T. S. , Ho Y. K.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a PC-based mini-project in power distribution system harmonics simulation for undergraduate students. The developed software may be used as a tool to assist the student in the analysis and design of a typical distribution system by taking into account the significant levels of harmonics. The paper also demonstrates the use of the harmonics filter which can identify the harmonics effect before and after the filter installation.
A Set of Control Experiments on an Overhead Crane Prototype
Authors: Méndez J. A. , Acosta L. , Torres S. , Moreno L. , Marichal G. N. , Sigut M.
Published: February 2013

A set of real-time control experiments applied to a non-linear system is presented. The system is an overhead crane and the experiments are applied on a low-cost scale model of it. This paper tries to compare the performance of both classical and intelligent control techniques applied to this plant.
A Combined-Resource Toolkit for Embedded Application Development
Authors: Bailey Nicholas J.
Published: February 2013

A lecture course in applied microprocessing supported by a laboratory delivered using commercial software and hardware had fundamental educational limitations. This paper outlines an inexpensive, flexible and open solution for teaching such microprocessor applications. Hardware, support software and an ISO C compiler are collected together and made available on the World-Wide Web.
Simulation of an Inverse Problem in Electrical Impedance Tomography Using Resistance Electrical Network Analogues
Authors: Abdullah Mohd. Zaid
Published: February 2013

Solving an inverse problem constitutes one of the most challenging tasks in electrical impedance tomography because of the mathematical complexity of the subject. The most commonly used methods include the finite element and boundary element methods. Both are mathematically involved procedures which are rarely taught at undergraduate level. An alternative approach based on a network of resistors is also useful for this type of inversion problem. This paper describes the use of resistance network analogues for electrical imaging. The algorithm is based on the modified Newton-Raphson method.
A Simple and Efficient Algorithm for Line Plotting in a Raster System
Authors: Baichoo Sunilduth , Bhurtun Chawdhurry
Published: February 2013

A digital computer displays lines by plotting pixels whose positions can be computed using the line equation. This involves lengthy floating point operations. This paper describes a different method for line plotting. It is simple, accurate and faster as it uses integer arithmetic.
Strategies for Teaching Mixed-Attainment Groups in Engineering Education
Authors: Houghton Warren , Dunne Elisabeth
Published: February 2013

This paper outlines delivery of a second-year undergraduate module in electronic engineering. A package of learning materials, including an open-ended mathematical CAL (computer-aided learning) package, was used to support students whose ability, ambitions and subsequent programmes vary widely. Discussion focuses on the nature of student responses and ways in which delivery of the module can be improved.
The Innovative Use of Communications and Information Technology to Enhance Final-Year Electronic Engineering Undergraduate Projects
Authors: Beggs B. J. , Smith E. M.
Published: February 2013

This paper describes a case study where Communications and Information Technology (C&IT) enabled undergraduate projects to develop innovative features. The undergraduates came from the final year of the BSc in Electronic Engineering. Their projects contained parallel elements to meet the traditional technical challenge but also to support primary school teachers in the delivery of technology topics in the classroom.
A ‘virtual Laboratory’ for Research Training and Collaboration
Authors: Baxendale Peter , Mellor John
Published: February 2013

The Trilogy project is a collaborative research project between the Universities of Durham and Strathclyde and Queen Mary College London. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of pooling the resources and expertise of research groups at the three institutions in a ‘virtual laboratory’. The laboratory will be used to support research training and collaborative working between the sites. This paper describes the aims of the project and the way the laboratory was implemented and gives examples of its use.
Electronic Assessment and Self-Paced Learning on the Web Using a Multiple-Choice Quiz Generator
Authors: Carbone A. , Schendzielorz P. , Zakis J. D.
Published: February 2013

This paper describes the work of an advanced first-year student in the Department of Computer Science, Monash University, who developed a Web-based multiple-choice quiz. It highlights the unique quiz features, and its use by students and staff. The paper describes how the quiz was incorporated into the first-year computer programming unit, which is based on the C programming language, and presents a conduit of attitudes useful to those who are planning to use the Web as a resource for educational assessment. It also describes some aspects of introduction of the quiz into engineering and Java.
Course Feedback System for Students on the Internet
Authors: Korpinen L. , Havunen I. , Loimio S.
Published: February 2013

The aim of the study was to develop a World Wide Web-based course feedback system that covers the whole of Tampere University of Technology, serving both students and teachers. The system includes generation and analysis of course feedback pages, provision of feedback, and a summary. The system has been tested successfully since December 1997.
Academic Use of Commercial Network Simulation Tools
Authors: Jones G. B. , Stipidis E. , Powner E. T.
Published: February 2013

The paper describes the use of computer assistance in teaching communications engineering. Today, the fast evolution of network communications makes teaching and learning a huge task. Commercial packages such as COMNET III greatly ease this aspect of learning and allow the student to experiment with ‘change and play’ scenarios.
EVSIM — A PC-based Simulation Tool for an Electric Vehicle Technology Course
Authors: Chau K. T. , Wong Y. S. , Chan C. C.
Published: February 2013

A new software package, the EVSIM, is developed to perform electric vehicle (EV) simulation based on a PC. It can carry out performance analysis of different EVs in a visual, interactive and user-friendly way, hence serving as an experimental part of the Electric Vehicle Technology course for electrical engineering undergraduate students.
Design and Development of Model Robots: A New Dimension in the Delivery of Electronic and Computer Engineering Programs
Authors: Chetty Girija
Published: February 2013

This paper reports two senior-level design projects in electronic and computer engineering study programs. The projects involve the design, development and construction of model robots using embedded controllers and microprocessors. The teaching technique not only motivates the students to develop a thorough understanding of the embedded controllers and microprocessors, but also helps them in the development cycle and to understand useful and innovative engineering applications. Details of the model robots and learning outcomes of the methodology used are presented.
Comparative Study of Single-Pulse Tri-State and Sinusoidal Pulse Width Modulated D.C. to A.C. Inverters
Authors: Jahmeerbacus M. I. , Soyjaudah K. M. S.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a comparative study of two commonly used d.c. to a.c. inverter control schemes through computer simulations using PSpice. Such a study provides students taking a power electronics course with a better understanding of the control and power stages of each inverter system by verification of the switch-mode waveforms derived in theory.
Dynamic Model of a Current Transformer
Authors: Tümay Mehmet , Simpson R. R. S. , El-Khatroushi H.
Published: February 2013

The performance of current transformers and its errors during short-circuit conditions are very important with regard to protective devices in power networks. Core saturation of protective current transformers due to the d.c. component of fault current and the qualitative effect of core hysteresis resulting in residual flux are both well-known phenomena which can produce distorted output currents. A numerical technique for the mathematical representation of the flux density/field strength relationship, including the effects of hysteresis for a current transformer magnetic material, is presented, based on the use of exponential series. The simulation results are compared with experimental results obtained from a sample current transformer.
Failure Distribution Curve Fitting Using Spreadsheet Add-Ins
Authors: John E. G. , Grosvenor R. I.
Published: February 2013

This paper describes a functional method, using readily available spreadsheet add-ins, of simplifying the problem of estimating the parameters of component failure distributions, typical of those encountered in electrical / electronic systems. The paper includes an example, using data taken from a failure test, conducted on a steering column switch in the automotive industry to demonstrate the effectiveness of the method.