bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of saline water intrusions into the Curonian Lagoon (Lithuania) and two-layer flow in the Klaipėda Strait using finite element hydrodynamic model
Authors: Zemlys P. , Ferrarin C. , Umgiesser G. , Gulbinskas S. , Bellafiore D.
Published: February 2013

Abstract. This work is focused on the application of a modelling system to simulate 3-D interaction between the Curonian Lagoon and the Baltic Sea coastal waters and to reflect spatio-temporal dynamics of marine waters in the Curonian Lagoon. The model system is based on the finite element program package SHYFEM which can be used to resolve the hydrodynamic equations in lagoons, coastal seas, estuaries and lakes. The results of a one year 3-D model simulation with real weather and hydrological forcing show that the saline water intrusions from the sea through Klaipėda Strait are gradually decreasing with distance from the sea and become negligible (average annual salinity about 0.5 ‰) at a~distance of about 20 km to the south of Kiaulės Nugara island. Analyses of the simulation results also show this area being highly heterogeneous according to the vertical salinity distribution. While in the deeper Klaipėda Strait (harbour waterway) differences in average salinity between near bottom and surface layers varies in the range 2–2.5 ‰, in the rest of the Curonian Lagoon it is less than 0.1 ‰. Analyses of the simulation results confirmed the presence of a two-directional flow that from time to time changes to either saline water one-directional flow to the Curonian Lagoon or fresh water one-directional flow to the sea. Two-directional flow duration decreases with a distance from sea entrance in Klaipėda Strait from around 180 days yr−1 close to the sea entrance to 50 days yr−1 just behind Kiaulės Nugara island. One-directional outflow duration is increasing with a distance from the sea entrance from 100 to 225 days yr−1. One-directional inflow duration occurs in the range 85–100 days yr−1. The analysis of the ratio of buoyancy layer thickness to water depth (hb/H) and the Wedderburn number showed three main flow regimes in the strait, identifying the main importance of wind action in the along-strait direction. Absence of wind or cross-strait wind regimes allow the maintenance of an two-layer flow typical of estuarine dynamics.
The new library of Babel? Borges, digitisation and the myth of a universal library
Authors: Rowe Christopher
Published: February 2013

The growing capacity of digital encoding and storage has opened up vast new avenues for the archiving and distribution of texts in virtual space, prompting many to declare the imminent obsolescence of print media, the book included. An interesting correlate to this situation is the revival of interest in and support for the idea of the universal library, a collection of every text in existence, albeit reimagined as an immense database of digitised material with online accessibility. Drawing mainly upon two texts by Jorge Luis Borges, a short story and an essay, this article challenges the premise that such a project would be possible or even desirable, and problematises the perceived equivalencies between print and digital media, reading a book and reading onscreen text, and library and database.
The business of conversations: Market social media surveillance and visibility
Authors: Trottier Daniel
Published: February 2013

Businesses increasingly rely on social media for personal information, which renders their market more visible. This paper draws on a surveillance studies perspective to consider the growth of market surveillance on social media. Drawing on a series of 13 semi–structured interviews with professionals who use Facebook as a business tool, this paper considers three emerging strategies. Radical transparency imports self–presentation tactics in a corporate realm, furthering corporate visibility. Listening refers to the surveillance of personal information. Finally, a conversational approach combines the visibility of both the market and the corporate actor. While popular literature celebrates this as a kind of mutual transparency, corporate actors are strategic in terms of what they present on social media.
Content analysis study of librarian blogs: Professional development and other uses
Authors: Jackson-Brown Grace M.
Published: February 2013

A content analysis of leading librarian blogs shows how blogs are used for professional development, political advocacy for libraries, research and other information dissemination uses. An examination of blog posts, comments, and blogger responses to reader comments show major areas of interaction. Unstructured interviews with librarian bloggers illuminate how these bloggers view the role of their blogs now and into the future.
Nafamostat Mesilate for Anticoagulation in Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy
Authors: Hwang Seun Deuk , Hyun Yu Kyung , Moon Sung Jin , Lee Sang Choel , Yoon Soo Young
Published: February 2013

Purpose

During continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT), anticoagulation of the extracorporeal circuit is required. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of nafamostat mesilate, a serine protease inhibitor, compared with heparin.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 222 patients treated with CRRT in the intensive care unit (ICU). Clinical and filter-related data were extracted.

Results

We reviewed the medical records of the patients treated with CRRT. Initial anticoagulation methods were 56 heparin and 25 nafamostat mesilate; 10 patients received infused heparin systemically, and 131 patients were treated without anticoagulation. Total number of filters used was 1,236. Median filter lifespan with nafamostat mesilate was significantly greater than heparin (24.3 vs. 17.5 hours, p<0.001) and Kaplan-Meier survival plots revealed the longer survival of the circuits using nafamostat mesilate than heparin or without anticoagulation. In Cox proportional hazard models, nafamostat mesilate predicted longer filter survival. Although nafamostat mesilate induced activated partial thromboplastin time prolongation in 11 circuits (5.4%), bleeding episodes were not increased.

Conclusions

Nafamostat mesilate anticoagulation was associated with prolonged filter survival compared with heparin. These data suggest that nafamostat mesilate is a good choice for anticoagulant with prolonged filter survival during CRRT in critically ill patients.
Identifying HIF Activity in Three-Dimensional Cultures of Islet-Like Clusters
Authors: Skiles Matthew L. , Wilder Nathan B. , Sahai Suchit , Blanchette James O.
Published: February 2013

Purpose

Hypoxia is a major cause for failure of encapsulated islet grafts. Three-dimensional (3D) re-aggregation and hypoxic preconditioning are used to help overcome this obstacle. However, it is still difficult to identify hypoxic cells in a 3D system. We evaluate the efficacy of a fluorescent system for detecting HIF-1 activity in live β-cells. Identification of HIF-1 activity and correlation with insulin secretion and viability will allow for more informed implant construction and better prediction of post-transplantational function.

Methods

MIN6 cells were infected with the marker virus and rotationally cultured to form clusters. Clusters were encapsulated in PEG hydrogels and incubated in 20%, 2%, or 1% O2. Gels were imaged daily for hypoxia marker signaling and for morphological observation. Daily GSIS was quantified by insulin ELSIA and cell viability was assessed by LIVE/DEAD staining.

Results

Clusters cultured in 2% and 1% O2 displayed high levels of HIF activity compared to 20% O2 clusters. 20% O2 clusters maintained viability and achieved a smooth, islet-like morphology by Day 14. Clusters in 2% and 1% O2 failed to associate cohesively and showed reduced viability. As a whole, constructs cultured in 20% O2 exhibited 10-fold higher GSIS than constructs in 2% and 1% O2.

Conclusions

Our marker is an effective approach for identifying cellular hypoxia in 3D cultures. β-cell clusters in 2% and 1% O2 are similarly affected by reduced oxygen tension, with HIF-1 activity correlating to reduced GSIS and impaired cell/cluster morphology. Simultaneous aggregative culture and hypoxic conditioning may not be beneficial to β-cell transplantation.
Can a Central Stitch over the Arantius' Nodules Provide a Solution for Pre-Operative Severe Native AI in LVAD Patients?
Authors: De Praetere Herbert , Jacobs Steven , Rega Filip , Droogne Walter , Meyns Bart
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the evolution of aortic valve insufficiency (AI) after Park's central stitch in patients with severe, pre-operative, native aortic valve insufficiency.

Methods

We retrospectively studied 71 continuous flow LVAD patients between January 2004 and December 2010. Four patients with AI≥3/4 were treated with a central stitch. An intensive review of the literature was performed to debate the use of the central stitch in this population.

Results

The AI at baseline (AI = 2.75 ± 0.5) and AI at last measurement (AI = 0.75 ± 0.65) is statistically different after central stitch (p<0.05) with mean follow up of 198.25 (± 146.70) days. Total cross clamp-time during the placement of the stitch was 15.5 minutes (± 13.062). CVA was not diagnosed in our cohort.

Conclusions

Park's central stitch can be successfully performed on patients with severe native AI (≥3/4) with good long-term results. Short ischemic time and simple application of the stitch are the biggest advantages. Due to the progression of AI in longstanding LVAD, the central stitch may be beneficial for LVAD in destination therapy. Since this is a small group of patients and also an early experience, more cases will be necessary to confirm these positive results.
Sequentially Integrated Optimization of the Conditions to Obtain a High-Protein and Low-Antinutritional Factors Protein Isolate from Edible Jatropha curcas Seed Cake
Authors: León-López Liliana , Dávila-Ortiz Gloria , Jiménez-Martínez Cristian , Hernández-Sánchez Humberto
Published: February 2013

Jatropha curcas seed cake is a protein-rich byproduct of oil extraction which could be used to produce protein isolates. The purpose of this study was the optimization of the protein isolation process from the seed cake of an edible provenance of J. curcas by an alkaline extraction followed by isoelectric precipitation method via a sequentially integrated optimization approach. The influence of four different factors (solubilization pH, extraction temperature, NaCl addition, and precipitation pH) on the protein and antinutritional compounds content of the isolate was evaluated. The estimated optimal conditions were an extraction temperature of 20°C, a precipitation pH of 4, and an amount of NaCl in the extraction solution of 0.6 M for a predicted protein content of 93.3%. Under these conditions, it was possible to obtain experimentally a protein isolate with 93.21% of proteins, 316.5 mg 100 g−1 of total phenolics, 2891.84 mg 100 g−1 of phytates and 168 mg 100 g−1 of saponins. The protein content of the this isolate was higher than the content reported by other authors.
Commod Bods and Frybread Power: Government Food Aid in American Indian Culture
Authors: Vantrease Dana
Published: February 2013

This essay explores American Indian cultural expressions related to government food aid through interviews with Indians and surveys of Indian mass media. Many Indians consider foods like frybread, cheese, and canned meats as traditional or characteristic Indian foods, even though they did not exist in North America before Europeans introduced them. Government-provided food items have evolved over generations of shared experience into ethnic symbols. The foods also symbolize the history of conflict between Indians and the government and the continuing struggle for a strong, authentic Indian identity.
Examining Augmented Reality as a Platform for Situated Ethnography through the Lens of the ARIS Wisconsin Uprising Game
Authors: Roy Carrie , Frandy Tim
Published: February 2013

This review explores the use of the Augmented Reality Interactive Storytelling (ARIS) platform to create geographically situated educational and ethnographic video games on mobile Apple devices like iPhones and iPads. Using the example of a game our research team developed to document the Wisconsin Uprising of 2011, we detail in this review the technical capabilities, formats, and features of ARIS, along with their respective merits and limitations. We also consider theoretical implications of presenting ethnographic fieldwork through interactive ethnographic games. ARIS games demand heavy editing and the fictionalization of ethnography, but offer opportunities for players to interact with fieldwork in ways that challenge traditional notions of ethnographic representation.
An Audit to Evaluate the Clinical Safety and PSA Response of Firmagon® (Degarelix) in Patients with Advanced Metastatic Prostate Cancer -
Authors: Nikhil Vasdev  , Patricia McClurey  , Debra Gray  , Aftab Bhatti  , David Chadwick
Published: February 2013

Objectives: To evaluate the clinical safety and PSA response in patients with metastatic prostate cancer being treated with Firmagon® (Degarelix) and to assess the drug's safety profile. Patients and Methods: This was an audit of 35 patients with PSA levels >50 and advanced metastatic prostate cancer at presentation who received Firmagon® (Degarelix) as per our North East & Cumbria Cancer Drug Approvals Group (NECDAG), UK guidelines. The audit was conducted using results from three hospitals in North East England with an aim to evaluate the safety profile, clinical and PSA response with this new drug. Baseline symptoms at diagnosis, presenting PSA and post treatment parameters on the commencement of with Firmagon® (Degarelix) were recorded. All patients in our cohort were homogenous having had not received any previous treatment including any form of LHRH analogue therapy. PSA levels were measured at 6 weekly intervals initially followed by 3 monthly intervals to evaluate initial and long term response to treatment withFirmagon® (Degarelix). Results: There was no incidence of anaphylaxis or injection site complications on immediate administration ofFirmagon® (Degarelix). No of our patients had renal or liver toxicity in our series. There was no incidence of tumour flare in any patient. A total of 23% of patients who presented primarily with severe bone pain described a complete resolution of Firmagon® (Degarelix) and required no adjuvant treatment such as bisphosphonates or palliative radiotherapy. A significant reduction in PSA levels were noted immediately at 6 weeks and 3 months following treatment with Firmagon® (Degarelix) (p=0.0038). Conclusions: Firmagon® (Degarelix) is a safe drug is well tolerated in patients with advanced metastatic prostate cancer. The reason of how bone pain completely resolves in some patients with extensive bone metastasis on the commencement of Firmagon® (Degarelix) needs to be evaluated.
IFLA Centre for Arabic Speaking Libraries and Information Institutions at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina
Authors: Youssef Dina , Wastawy Sohair F.
Published: February 2013

The Centre for Arabic Speaking Libraries and Information Institutions of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, hosted by the Bibliotheca Alexandrina in Egypt, began its activities in October 2007. The article sets out the Centre's aims and outlines the activities undertaken to achieve them. An important aspect of the Centre's work is the translation of IFLA documents and conference papers into Arabic and assisting with the provision of simultaneous interpretation. In October 2008 a conference ‘The role of libraries in freedom of expression, tolerance and access to information’ was held at the Bibliotheca Alexandrina. The Centre's website supports the Centre's aim of encouraging the participation of librarians from the Arab world in global developments, offering a resource that any Arab librarian seeking information about the library and information profession can use. All these activities reinforce the Bibliotheca Alexandrina's role in the region as a centre of excellence in the dissemination of knowledge and as a place of dialogue, learning and understanding between cultures and peoples.
Memory of the Netherlands: Past and Future of the Dutch National Database on Cultural Heritage
Authors: Crijns Huibert , Rademakers Anna
Published: February 2013

The Memory of the Netherlands programme was created by the Koninklijke Bibliotheek (the National Library of the Netherlands) in cooperation with the Dutch Ministry of Education, Culture and Science to present a major national database of images of cultural heritage objects on the Internet. The article describes the background to the project, the collections that it contains, and the partnerships with other institutions that have been forged. Particular issues highlighted by the programme have been open access and copyright, contextualizing the content of the database, and the challenges of evolving Information Technology and the standardization of metadata. Memory of the Netherlands has been successful in creating a freely accessible database of more than 400,000 digital objects from 70 different cultural heritage institutions. However, the Dutch government, which financed the programme for its first ten years, has decided to end its funding and the Koninklijke Bibliotheek now has to consider how best to ensure the continued existence and accessibility of the project.
Virtual Reunification, Virtual Preservation and Enhanced Conservation
Authors: Shenton Helen
Published: February 2013

The digitization of dispersed collections offers the opportunity to do much more than simply image collections. The paper centres on major initiatives involving the British Library which are virtually reunifying significant collections dispersed around the world. Such virtual reconstruction of cultural heritage creates a different digital entity. The Codex Sinaiticus project has worked towards the July 2009 Web launch of the virtual reunification of all the leaves of one of the earliest extant Bibles. The approximately 400 leaves are physically located in St Catherine's Monastery, Mount Sinai, Leipzig University Library, the National Library of Russia, St Petersburg, and the British Library, London. The International Dunhuang Project is a very mature project that has been digitizing material from the Dunhuang caves and the Eastern Silk Road dispersed in London, Beijing, Dunhuang, St Petersburg, Berlin, Paris, Stockholm and Kyoto. These complex programmes have broad application to other cultural–historical projects, and some of the wider political, diplomatic and stewardship themes are developed.
Challenges and Prospects of Consortia: A Case Study of the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Ghana (CARLIGH)
Authors: Dzandza Patience , Alemna Anaba
Published: February 2013

This study sought to find out the prospects and challenges of the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Ghana (CARLIGH). Questionnaires were sent to 18 members of the consortium and 15 were retrieved, giving a response rate of 83%. The results indicated that members enjoy access to electronic resources at reduced cost, free training workshops and seminars, and technical support in the use of electronic resources. However, there were challenges such as foreign exchange problems, inability to obtain full access to some databases, and difficulties in dealing with publishers. Some recommendations have been made to enhance the prospects of the consortium.
The National Library of the Republic of Kazakhstan: History and Priorities for Development
Authors: Issakhov Orynbassar , Bozymbekov K. Zh.
Published: February 2013

The article outlines the history of the National Library of the Republic of Kazakhstan, beginning with the creation of the State Public Library of Kazakhstan by a decree of the Central Executive Committee of the Kazakh Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic in 1931. The State Public Library became the deposit library for all printed items published in the Republic. In 1991 the Library was awarded the title ‘National’ in recognition of its status as the centre for the coordination of librarianship in the whole of the Republic. An important priority for the Library is the creation of its own electronic resources through the digitization of its printed collections. The Library also provides current information in electronic form, for example through its database Kazakhstan: the past and present. In addition to its exploitation of new technologies, the Library actively promotes the study and understanding of the rare books and manuscripts contained in its historic collections, such as a Koran of the twelfth century. The paper identifies the safeguarding of the citizens' constitutional right to free access to information as a central element of the Library's mission.
University Power Electronic Education through an Industrial Battery Charger Design Project — A Case Study
Authors: Freere P.
Published: February 2013

To train our postgraduate students to be effective, we involve them in industrial consultancy projects for their first 6–12 months, where they do the major part of the work. This provides excellent training on a small scale with practical aspects, such that the students and their projects can be closely supervised and guidance supplied, and hence rapid learning occurs. This paper looks at the lessons learnt from an industrial battery charger.
Stability Criteria in Non-Polar Diagrams
Authors: García-Sanz M.
Published: February 2013

Control engineering education textbooks usually restrict the verification of the systems stability with the Nichols' cartesian and Bode's logarithmic representations to the single case when the number of poles with positive real part is zero and when the curve presents a single phase margin or a single gain margin. This paper presents a general procedure to analyse absolute stability in non-polar diagrams and solves an interesting example, both for educational purposes.
An Exact Analysis of the Electrodynamometer Wattmeter Errors
Authors: Shobair Ahmed I. A.
Published: February 2013

When analysing electrodynamometer type wattmeters, the common assumption that potential coil current is linearly proportional to load voltage is only true for one of two alternative methods of connecting its current and potential coils. The present analysis avoids this. It also develops a single expression for the correction factor which includes connection and phase angle errors.
Bandwidth Behaviour of Negative-Feedback Amplifiers with Dominant-Pole Compensation
Authors: Wilson B.
Published: February 2013

This tutorial paper examines the bandwidth behaviour of dominant-pole-compensated feedback amplifiers in a format suitable for most undergraduate analogue lecture courses and shows that gain-bandwidth independence is available for many combinations of amplifier and feedback configurations. Two examples centred on a voltage amplifier and a photodiode transimpedance amplifier are included.
Matching in Transmission Lines with N Stubs: Analytic Development and Computational Treatment
Authors: Moreno E. , Vázquez J. , Baneira-Gómez M.
Published: February 2013

Starting from an ‘ad hoc’ analytic development, an interactive software is presented that allows matching of any kind (series, parallel, piece of line, …) in a lossless transmission line. The simulator, besides the quantitative results, allows us to represent graphically the several parameters and compare them when we change the frequency.
Stability of Negative Resistance Oscillator Circuits
Authors: Grebennikov A. V.
Published: February 2013

Theoretical analysis of the stability conditions of the negative resistance oscillator circuits in a generalized form is presented. A general approach is derived with respect to small perturbations in the operating point. Some practical examples with different circuit configurations are given.
A Software Tool for Teaching Microcontroller System Principles
Authors: Martin-Del-Brio Bonifacio , Bernal-Ruiz Carlos
Published: February 2013

In this paper we present Visual 11, a new software tool for learning microcontroller fundamentals. This tool simulates the Motorola M68HC11 microcontroller core and several peripheral devices. Thus an electrical engineering student can practise for him- or herself both assembly language programming and interfacing concepts, in the classroom or at home. Visual 11 is suitable for microprocessor and microcontroller courses at an introductory level.
Monitoring the Secondary Voltage of a Transformer by Measurements on the Primary Side
Authors: Jayawant B. V. , Whorlow R. J. , Wilson G.
Published: February 2013

A circuit is described which enables measurements of the parameters on the secondary side of a loosely coupled transformer to be made using only measurements of voltage and current on the primary side. The actual application is for a case when the primary and secondary cores of the transformer are separated by a (stainless steel) barrier. This is done by novel manipulation of electric and magnetic circuit equations of transformers and, therefore, is considered to have educational value.
A Two-Boundary Integrator for a Unified Study of a Class of Dynamic Systems with State-Space Constraints
Authors: Mbihi Jean
Published: February 2013

A two-boundary integrator is modeled as an automated device. The resulting device is used to develop a unified state-space model of a class of constrained dynamic systems. This unified model (subsequently very appropriate for undergraduate teaching) is designed and validated using the SIMULINK toolbox.
Specifications and Standards for Learning Technologies: The IMS Project
Authors: Olivier Bill , Liber Oleg , Lefrere Paul
Published: February 2013

The Instructional Management Systems (IMS) project is developing a set of specifications for learning technologies, with the intention of removing obstacles to their large-scale uptake. In the UK, the Joint Universities' Funding Councils' Information Systems Committee has joined the project as an investment member and has established a UK IMS Centre. IMS is collaborating with other projects active in this area. The IMS specification has several components, each of which is described.
Towards a Web-Based Control Engineering Laboratory
Authors: Chetty M. , Dabke K. P.
Published: February 2013

Distance education via the World Wide Web (WWW) in engineering should include laboratory experiments. These allow convenient access, familiarisation with equipment before use and interactive preparation of the background material to relieve pressure on instructor access. A controller design and simulation for a low-order plant using the WWW, MATLAB and graphics is described.
Power Invariance Transformation in Power Systems
Authors: Heydeman J. , Schongs W. W.
Published: February 2013

Many textbooks describe a balanced three-phase circuit by a single-phase equivalent representation. Confusion may arise amongst students regarding per-unit values of line-to-line voltages and phase voltages and, therefore, about the magnitudes of currents and powers. This paper proposes that students must first be taught symmetrical components based on power invariance transformation. A balanced three-phase circuit is to be described only in terms of positive sequence components. In the authors' experience, students understand this approach better and make fewer errors in per-unit calculation than when they use the single-phase equivalent representation.
A Novel Induction Machine Model and its Application in the Development of an Advanced Vector Control Scheme
Authors: Sokola M. , Levi E.
Published: February 2013

A novel induction motor model, that fully accounts for both the fundamental iron loss and main flux saturation, is derived. The model is then applied to the design of a modified rotor flux oriented control scheme. A rotor flux estimator and a rotor resistance identifier are both developed using the novel model, so that simultaneous compensation of main flux saturation, iron loss and rotor resistance variation is achieved.
The Root Locus Method: Famous Curves, Control Designs and Non-Control Applications
Authors: de Paor Annraoi
Published: February 2013

Famous named curves generated as root loci produce optimum and pseudo-optimum stability designs for realistic systems. Non-minimum-phase control involves a principle of topological certainty. A root locus with complex breakpoints is discussed. Cassini's ovals in Brauer's method of eigenvalue localisation are illustrated. A problem in dielectric theory, recast into an imaginary-parameter root locus, is solved via real-parameter theory. Continuation, translation and scaling are invoked. It is hoped to impart an appreciation of the versatility of root-locus-inspired thinking.
An Expert System-Aided Tool for Teaching the Design of PID-based Controllers
Authors: Moghram Ibrahim S. , Ibrahim Faisel A.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an expert system tool for the design of PID-based position controllers. The implementation of this tool has been carried out using a MATLAB software environment. The rules for building up this expert system tool have been based on experience gained from literature and from experimental simulation results. Two design examples demonstrate the usefulness of this developed tool. The tool can be used as an educational aid in teaching the design of PID-based position controllers.
Distribution System Voltage Regulation and Var Compensation for Different Static Load Models
Authors: Mithulananthan N. , Salama M. M. A. , Cañizares C. A. , Reeve J.
Published: February 2013

Voltage regulation computations for distribution systems are strongly dependent on power flow solutions. The classical constant power load model is typically used in power flow studies of transmission or distribution systems; however, the actual load of a distribution system cannot just be modeled using constant power models, requiring the use of constant current, constant impedance, exponential or a mixture of all these load models to accurately represent the load. This paper presents a study of voltage regulation of a distribution system using different static load models. The effect of shunt capacitor compensation is also studied and illustrated in this paper for systems with different static load models.
Experiments on VME and ISA Buses for a Computer Architecture Laboratory
Authors: Moreno L. , González E. J. , Piñeiro J. D. , Estévez J. I. , Merino J. J. , Sigut J. F. , Aguilar R. M.
Published: February 2013

This article presents a set of hardware experiments in the area of computer architecture. They combine their practical aspects with a set of simulation exercises.

We propose a series of practical applications including both asynchronous VME/synchronous ISA buses and parallelism. The system on which experiments are carried out is an 80 × 86 CPU-based prototype.
Modelling and Analysis of a Unit Protection Scheme
Authors: Tümay Mehmet
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the modelling and analysis of unit protection of feeders. The protection system module is linked to the primary power system module in such a way that it acts as a feedback loop. The primary power system module provides the three-phase voltages and/or currents at the transducer locations. The protection system module then processes this data, and outputs a circuit breaker status, which can then be feedback to the primary power system module. The paper also describes the operating principles of the protection unit. Finally, practical applications of the model under fault conditions are examined.
A Low-Cost Interface Circuit to Enable A/D Conversion Using the Parallel Port
Authors: Rodríguez M. , Ayala A. , Rosa F. , Herrera F. , Rodríguez S. , Díaz-González M. , Buenafuente S. R.
Published: February 2013

A simple and low-cost acquisition device using the computer parallel port has been used to implement a full acquisition system composed of an analogue interface, a 12-bit analogue-to-digital converter, a quad three to one multiplexer and a software package aimed at managing the acquisition process. The features of this system make its implementation a suitable educational resource for undergraduate students from Engineering, Physics and Computer Sciences faculties.
The Language is Irrelevant: It's What You Do with it That Counts
Authors: Brown A. D.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a brief comment on the role of hardware description languages (HDLs) in the design process, and attempts to look past the semantics of an HDL and identify the semantic constructs that must be supported if a language is to be of practical use. Some brief remarks on the capabilities of state-of-the-art optimisation techniques are also presented.
Prototyping Hardware and Software Environment for Teaching Digital Circuit Design
Authors: Trost Andrej , Zemva Andrej , Verderber Matjaz
Published: February 2013

In the paper, we present our latest achievements and experience in undergraduate teaching of digital circuits, integrated circuits and embedded systems by exploiting our prototyping hardware and software environment. The hardware environment is based on Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) modules that provide sufficient flexibility and support a broad scope of digital design applications. In addition, the designed software environment supports user-friendly hardware verification of the logic circuits implemented on the hardware system. We describe some typical applications and student projects implemented on the programmable prototyping system.
Investigating UK Undergraduate Electrical and Electronic Engineering Attrition
Authors: Cutler Gavin L. , Pulko Susan H.
Published: February 2013

A 2001 UK survey of electrical and electronic engineering academics looked at undergraduate attrition rates against the background of quantifiable ‘resource’ measures such as staff-student ratio and admissions criteria. Whilst there are predictable trends relating achievement to such parameters, the variation in progression statistics between higher education institutions with similar 'resources' was large, implying scope for improvement by adoption of appropriate practices. Respondents furnished information on subject matter problematic to their students, and outlined departmental strategies for counteracting attrition. Pastoral care issues, such as financial problems, disability, gender and ethnicity were also discussed.
Enhancing Motivation for Learning Control Theory and Digital Signal Processing — A Pan-European Venture
Authors: Pipe A. G. , Weston D. , Peters R. , Van Vliet M. , Hebestreit S. , Blasweiler W. , Scherer M. , Dustler G. , Rosen K. , Falk J.
Published: February 2013

In ‘hard’ numerate subjects of electrical/electronic engineering, student motivation is a difficult problem. Students must feel engaged and purposeful. The authors have worked closely together as a pan-European group to design a module that engages students via interesting practical work, integrating a number of subjects together, and achieving enhanced motivation.
First Year Engineering Students' Approaches to Study
Authors: Rowe John W. K.
Published: February 2013

Student approaches to learning (SAL) and the levels of understanding they achieve are critically linked and closely related to motivation. This paper reports the results of a study involving first year higher education engineering students using the ASI-32 questionnaire to investigate approaches to study and end of year achievement.
The Complex Transformer as a Network-Model Element
Authors: Fiennes J. , de Souza C. R.
Published: February 2013

The transformer representation of invariance of power is extended via the concepts of complex, vector, matrix and pseudo-transformers.
Teaching the Self-Excited Induction Generator Using Matlab
Authors: Anagreh Yaser N. , Al-Refae'e Imadden M.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an attractive approach for teaching the self-excited induction generator. Three operating conditions of the generator are mathematically modeled and then simulated using conventional Matlab commands. Active windows with these models are created using Matlab's Graphical User Interface capability. An example is given to demonstrate the usefulness of the developed tool.
Software Package for an Educational Computer System
Authors: Grbanovic Nenad , Djordjevic Jovan , Nikolic Bosko
Published: February 2013

Some aspects concerning the realisation of a software package for an educational computer system are considered. First, the rationale behind the development of the educational computer system and software is given. Then the basic characteristics of the educational computer system and typical user features of the software are described. The reasons for the choice of programming environment used in the realisation of the software package are discussed. Finally, the basic elements of the proposed software package are given.
An Electronic Instrumentation Course for Non-Electronic Engineering Students
Authors: Campilho Aurélio , Cardoso Artur
Published: February 2013

This paper reports on the implementation of a required course on electronic instrumentation for informatics engineering students. These students had proved in previous years to require a special approach, as their motivation for this subject was low. The course focuses on the basic concepts of Electronic Instrumentation, including analogue-to-digital and digital-to-analogue conversion and introducing the concept of instrument control. The course was organised in a set of lectures coupled with laboratory experiments, and a small project. To foster collaborative learning all the students work on the same laboratory experiments, simultaneously, organised in groups of two. The students' feedback on the course was more positive than in previous years, although not substantially so in terms of results. We feel that a change of attitude took place effectively, and that this could be attributed to the laboratory experiments using LabVIEW.
Application of the Slow Coherency Decomposition Method to the Yemeni Network
Authors: Badeeb Omer M. Awed , Hazza Gamal A. W.
Published: February 2013

This paper reviews the slow coherency method for decomposing multi-machine power systems into coherent areas. The slow coherency method identifies weakly coupled groups of generators with the slowest inter-area modes of oscillation. This decomposition method has a sound mathematical basis. A case study is described in which the decomposition technique is applied to a power system (the Yemeni electrical network), and its dynamic equivalency is determined. This selection was based on choosing an already developed network. Results obtained indicate the necessity for performing such an analysis to improve the performance of developed networks.
Genetic Algorithm Based Optimal Self-Tuning Fuzzy Logic Controller for Power System Static VAR Stabiliser
Authors: Dalci K. Burak , Uzunoglu Mehmet , Kucukdemiral Ibrahim B.
Published: February 2013

In this study, a novel method is proposed for the compensation of loads that vary frequently in time. The proposed scheme is based on the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) that is widely used in control of nonlinear processes. FLC architecture is used for regulating the gains of the basis Proportional-Integral (PI) as a self-tuning controller. On the other hand, the constant gains of the basis: PI controller are optimised by a genetic algorithm. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method shows better performance than that of the conventional PI controller.
Teaching Parallel Computing Concepts with a Desktop Computer
Authors: Fung Y. F. , Ercan M. F. , Chong Y. S. , Ho T. K. , Cheung W. L. , Singh G.
Published: February 2013

Parallel computing is currently used in many engineering problems. However, because of limitations in curriculum design, it is not always possible to offer students specific formal teaching in this topic. Furthermore, parallel machines are still too expensive for many institutions. The latest microprocessors, such as Intel's Pentium III and IV, embody single instruction multiple-data (SIMD) type parallel features, which makes them a viable solution for introducing parallel computing concepts to students. Final year projects have been initiated utilizing SSE (streaming SIMD extensions) features and it has been observed that students can easily learn parallel programming concepts after going through some programming exercises. They can now experiment with parallel algorithms on their own PCs at home.
Closed-Form Solution for Design of Lead-Lag Compensators
Authors: Nassirharand Amir , Karimi Hassan
Published: February 2013

A closed-form solution for the design of lead-lag compensators based on an exact model-matching criterion is developed. Using the developed design tool, students are able to obtain lead-lag compensators in a fraction of the time that is required by traditional design methods.
A Study into the Impact of Introducing Year 5 Students to University and Electronic Engineering
Authors: Linfoot Scott , Cobb Al
Published: February 2013

This paper demonstrates the benefits of introducing Year 5 school students to university life, encountering styles of teaching to which they would be otherwise unaccustomed; and the results of a survey conducted both before and after the study visit to determine whether the visit was beneficial to the students in academic terms.
The Engineering Sector Student Apprenticeship
Authors: Thomas C. , Clarke S.
Published: February 2013

This paper describes the Student Apprenticeship in Engineering, a programme which enables young people in full-time pre-16 education to undertake structured work-related learning at an approved training centre. Its aim is to provide students with the knowledge, skills and competences necessary to enter a career in the engineering sector and to give them the confidence to make informed choices regarding their chosen occupation and future employment.
Power System Load Flow Analysis Using an Excel Workbook
Authors: Acarnley Paul
Published: February 2013

The paper describes the development and features of an MS-Excel Workbook (available at www.reseeds.com ), which illustrates four methods of power system load flow analysis. Iterative techniques are represented by the Newton-Raphson and Gauss-Seidel methods. The Workbook also includes two search algorithms: genetic algorithms and simulated annealing.
Power Transfer to a Load: A New Teaching Approach
Authors: Chatzarakis George E. , Tortoreli Marina D. , Malatestas P. B. , Papanikolaou V. S. , Papoutsis I. E. , Cottis P. G.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a different approach to teaching undergraduates about the power transfer to a load by a linear electric circuit. Its aim is to enable students to select the proper load that absorbs power within predetermined percentages of the maximum power transferred. The said approach can also be used in practical situations.
TAGS: A Software Tool for Simulating Transducer Automata
Authors: Esmoris Agustín , Chesñevar Carlos Iván , González Maráa Paula
Published: February 2013

This paper introduces TAGS (Transducer Automata Graphical Simulator), a software tool for teaching different aspects of transducer automata theory, a theoretical topic which underlies many aspects of the design of sequential digital circuits. TAGS allows simulation of both Moore and Mealy transducer automata, integrating different theoretical concepts associated with them. The student can define an arbitrary transducer automaton in an interactive way, being able to simulate and trace its behavior by means of different ‘views’.
Teaching Embedded Microprocessor Systems by Enquiry-Based Group Learning
Authors: Barnes M. , Bailey M. , Green P. R. , Foster D. A.
Published: February 2013

Engineers today are required both to have a mastery of ‘traditional’ technological skills and to be competent with a variety of ‘soft skills’ such as teamworking and the ability to present or sell their ideas. At the same time the technological skill requirements are broader. There is a gradual shift from knowledge of specialist fields, to engineers with a fluency in system integration and embedded system design. This paper describes the development of an undergraduate module in embedded systems design. The learning approach taken is that of a cooperative, enquiry-based project to build a small robot. This allows both technical skills and soft skills to be developed in a supportive environment. The student team is required to plan the design and construction of hardware and software for a unit built around an inexpensive commercial microcontroller. This paper describes the module design rationale, the structure given to the students, their performance and evaluates the educational results of what was a well-received learning activity.
Teaching Power Electronics with the Aid of Spreadsheets
Authors: Jabr R. A.
Published: February 2013

The subject of power electronics forms the basis for the conversion of electric power from one form to the other using electronic devices. Traditionally, students encountering this subject for the first time have been frustrated by the level of mathematics required to perform harmonic analysis, solve differential equations and obtain power-related quantities. In recent times, computer simulation software, such as PSpice, has been used as an instructional tool for introductory power electronic courses. Although PSpice can increase the student's ability to comprehend the operation of several power electronic circuits by inspecting voltage and current waveforms, its use for the analysis of these waveforms may leave students unaware of the pertinent mathematical procedures and their limitations. This paper shows that using a spreadsheet program, the student can comprehend the fundamental principles required for analysing voltage and current waveforms in nonlinear circuits without getting bogged down by complicated mathematics.
Experimental Determination of Equivalent-Circuit Parameters for Transformers with Large Series-Branch Impedances
Authors: Mukerji Saurabh Kumar , Goel Sandeep Kumar , Basu Kartik Prasad
Published: February 2013

An augmented open-circuit test is described for the determination of equivalent-circuit parameters for single-phase transformers. Using the test results, phasor diagrams are drawn and, from these, formulas for the equivalent-circuit parameters are found. The treatment presented is applicable even for transformers with large values of series-branch impedances in the equivalent circuit.
Teaching Robotics to Cybernetics Students
Authors: Liang D. T. W. , Readle J. C. , Alder C.
Published: February 2013

Five years of developments in the teaching of robotics in the cybernetics degree courses at the University of Bradford, UK are described, together with their educational underpinnings. Robotics is used as a cohesive theme throughout the courses, helping a diverse student body learn a variety of skills and enhancing their employability.
Finding the Equivalent Resistance, Inductance, Capacitance, and Impedance: A New Powerful Pedagogical Method
Authors: Chatzarakis G. E. , Chatzarakis E. G. , Kantonidou M. M.
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a new method for the calculation of the equivalent resistance, inductance, capacitance, and impedance of a linear electric circuit. It is based on a new approach for finding the Thevenin equivalent circuit in combination with mesh or nodal analysis. It is a powerful pedagogical tool which leads to an easy, systematic, time-saving and absolutely accurate calculation of the above parameters, regardless of the circuit topology and complexity.