bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Managing Livestock Species under Climate Change in Australia
Authors: Seo S. Niggol , McCarl Bruce
Published: October 2011

This paper examines the vulnerabilities of major livestock species raised in Australia to climate change using the regional livestock profile of Australia of around 1,400 regions. The number of each species owned, the number of each species sold, and the aggregate livestock revenue across all species are examined. The four major species analyzed are sheep, beef cattle, dairy cattle, and pigs. The analysis also includes livestock products such as wool and milk. These livestock production statistics are regressed against climate, geophysical, market and household characteristics. In contrast to crop studies, the analysis finds that livestock species are resilient to a hotter and more arid climate. Under the CSIRO climate scenario in which temperature increases by 3.4 °C, livestock revenue per farm increases significantly while the number of each species owned increases by large percentages except for dairy cattle. The precipitation reduction by about 8% in 2060 also increases the numbers of livestock species per farm household. Under both UKMO and GISS scenarios, livestock revenue is expected to increase by around 47% while the livestock population increases by large percentage. Livestock management may play a key role in adapting to a hot and arid climate in Australia. However, critical values of the climatic variables for the species analyzed in this paper are not obvious from the regional data.
Proteomics Analysis of the Effects of Cyanate on Chromobacterium violaceum Metabolism
Authors: Baraúna Rafael A. , Ciprandi Alessandra , Santos Agenor V. , Carepo Marta S.P. , Gonçalves Evonnildo C. , Schneider Maria P.C. , Silva Artur
Published: October 2011

Chromobacterium violaceum is a gram-negative betaproteobacterium that has been isolated from various Brazilian ecosystems. Its genome contains the cyn operon, which gives it the ability to metabolize highly toxic cyanate into ammonium and carbon dioxide. We used a proteomics approach to investigate the effects of cyanate on the metabolism of this bacterium. The proteome of cells grown with and without cyanate was compared on 2-D gels. Differential spots were digested and identified by mass spectrometry. The bacterium was able to grow at concentrations of up to 1 mM cyanate. Eighteen spots were differentially expressed in the presence of cyanate, of which 16 were downregulated and only two were upregulated. An additional 12 spots were detected only in extracts of cells unexposed to cyanate, and one was expressed only by the exposed cells. Fourteen spots were identified, corresponding to 13 different proteins. We conclude that cyanate promotes expression of enzymes that combat oxidative stress and represses enzymes of the citric acid cycle, strongly affecting the energetic metabolism of the cell. Other proteins that were under-expressed in bacteria exposed to cyanate are involved in amino-acid metabolism or are hypothetical proteins, demonstrating that cyanate also affects expression of genes that are not part of the cyn operon.
N-Acetylcysteine Reduces Markers of Differentiation in 3T3-L1 Adipocytes
Authors: Calzadilla Pablo , Sapochnik Daiana , Cosentino Soledad , Diz Virginia , Dicelio Lelia , Calvo Juan Carlos , Guerra Liliana N.
Published: October 2011

Oxidative stress plays a critical role in the pathogenesis of diabetes, hypertension and atherosclerosis. Some authors reported that fat accumulation correlates to systemic oxidative stress in humans and mice, but the relationship of lipid production and oxidative metabolism is still unclear. In our laboratory we used 3T3-L1 preadipocytes, which are able to differentiate into mature adipocytes and accumulate lipids, as obesity model. We showed that intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activities increased in parallel with fat accumulation. Meanwhile N-acetylcysteine (NAC), a well known antioxidant and Glutathione (GSH) precursor, inhibited ROS levels as well as fat accumulation in a concentration-dependent manner. NAC also inhibited both adipogenic transcription factors CCAAT/enhancer binding protein beta (C/EBP β) and peroxisomal proliferator activated receptor gamma (PPAR γ) expression; we suggested that intracellular GSH content could be responsible for these effects.
Efficient Microwave-Assisted Synthesis of Ionic Esterified Amino Acids
Authors: Cerón-Camacho Ricardo , Aburto Jorge , Montiel Luisa E. , Flores Eugenio A. , Cuellar Frisia , Martínez-Palou Rafael
Published: October 2011

In this work, an efficient microwave-assisted methodology for the esterification of unprotected α-amino acids is described. Ionic esterified amino acids were synthesized in satisfactory yields in a facile one-pot solventless protocol from unprotected amino acids and alcohols under acid catalysis (MsOH or p-TsOH) to afford the pure products after a simple work-up procedure. This procedure can also be extended to the preparation of long and short chain alkyl and benzyl esters.
Facile Synthesis of Functionalized Spiropyrrolizidine Oxindoles via a Three-Component Tandem Cycloaddition Reaction
Authors: Xie Yong-Mei , Yao Yu-Qin , Sun Hong-Bao , Yan Ting-Ting , Liu Jie , Kang Tai-Ran
Published: October 2011

An efficient synthesis of functionalized spiropyrrolizidine oxindoles via a three-component tandem cycloaddition has been achieved. This strategy can provide direct and rapid access to spiropyrrolizidine oxindoles in high yields (up to 99%) with excellent diastereoselectivities (up to 99:1 dr). The features of this procedure are the following: mild reaction conditions, high yields, high diastereoselectivities, one-pot procedure and operational simplicity.
Triazolobithiophene Light Absorbing Self-Assembled Monolayers: Synthesis and Mass Spectrometry Applications
Authors: Kenfack Ghislain Tsague , Schinkovitz Andreas , Babu Suresh , Elouarzaki Kamal , Dias Marylène , Derbré Séverine , Helesbeux Jean-Jacques , Levillain Eric , Richomme Pascal , Séraphin Denis
Published: October 2011

The synthesis of five light absorbing triazolobithiophenic thiols, which were utilized for producing self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) on gold surfaces, is presented. The monolayer formation was monitored by cyclic voltammetry, indicating excellent surface coverage. The new triazolobithiophenic compounds exhibited an absorption maximum around 340 nm, which is close to the emission wavelength of a standard nitrogen laser. Consequently these compounds could be used to aid ionization in laser desorption mass spectrometry (MS).
Divergent Synthesis of Novel Five-Membered Heterocyclic Compounds by Base-Mediated Rearrangement of Acrylamides Derived from a Novel Isocyanide-Based Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Basso Andrea , Banfi Luca , Riva Renata
Published: October 2011

We have recently reported a novel multicomponent reaction between arylacetic acids and isocyanides, affording α-acyloxyacrylamides through an unusual mechanism. The products of this novel multicomponent reaction can rearrange to five membered heterocyclic compounds when exposed to an alkaline environment. Depending on the reaction conditions and on the substitution pattern on the substrates, various pyrrolidine derivatives can be selectively obtained. We now wish to report that libraries endowed with skeletal diversity, thus responding to the requirements of Diversity Oriented Synthesis (DOS), can be efficiently prepared in this manner, and phenotypic biological assays have shown interesting properties of some representative compounds.
Rester psychanalyste face au chaos des nouvelles filiations
Authors: Faure-Pragier Sylvie
Published: October 2011

Résumé Les progrès dans les techniques de procréation bouleversent la filiation et modifient la structure familiale. Comment rester psychanalyste devant une évolution où la femme récupère un pouvoir grandissant tandis que l’homme perd son autorité ? L’auteure étudie la conception hors sexualité, les dons de gamètes et l’homoparentalité. Elle se livre enfin à quelques considérations éthiques.
Photosynthesis and daily metabolic carbon balance of the invasive Caulerpa racemosa var. cylindracea (Chlorophyta: Caulerpales) along a depth gradient
Authors: Bernardeau-Esteller Jaime , Marín-Guirao Lázaro , Sandoval-Gil Jos M. , Ruiz Juan M.
Published: October 2011

The photosynthetic plasticity of the invasive green alga Caulerpa racemosa v. cylindracea (hereafter C. racemosa) has been proposed as a relevant mechanism determining its successful performance on Mediterranean benthic assemblages over broad depth gradients. In the present study, the photosynthetic performance of C. racemosa was evaluated through a carbon balance approach at three invaded sites with contrasting depths (11, 18 and 26 m) and light regimes. At each sampling depth, photosynthesis vs irradiance (P vs E) curves were performed on C. racemosa fronds and daily net productivity values were obtained by the numerical integration of P vs E models with continuous recording of irradiance measured on the sea floor. Photosynthetic responses were consistent with those typically exhibited by shade-adapted macroalgal species and other Mediterranean populations of C. racemosa: a significant reduction in maximum photosynthesis (Pmax) occurring at an intermediate depth (18 m) and a higher photosynthetic efficiency (α) and lower dark respiration rate (Rd) at the deepest sampling depth. Mean values of daily net C balance obtained from the deeper site were only 15% lower than those obtained from the shallower site, despite the severe reduction in light availability. This daily net carbon gain was ca. 29% higher than would be expected if photosynthetic adjustments did not occur in the deeper algal population. The evidence provided by these data support the hypothesis of photoacclimation in C. racemosa as an effective mechanism to optimize algal productivity across depth gradients in the Mediterranean Sea.
Experimental Machine Vision System for Training Students in Virtual Instrumentation Techniques
Authors: Holonec Rodica
Published: October 2011

The aim of this paper is to present the main techniques in designing and building of a complex machine vision system in order to train electrical engineering students in using virtual instrumentation. The proposed test bench realizes an automatic adjustment of some electrical circuit parameters on a belt conveyer. The students can learn how to combine mechanics, electronics, electrical engineering, image acquisition and processing in order to solve the proposed application. After the system implementation the students are asked to present in which way they can modify or extend the system for industrial environment regarding the automatic adjustment of electric parameters or the calibration of different type of sensors (of distance, of proximity, etc) without the intervention of the human factor in the process.
Using VISIR: Experiments, Subjects and Students
Authors: Garcia-Zubia Javier , Gustavsson Ingvar , Hernandez-Jayo Unai , Orduna Pablo , Angulo Ignacio , Rodriguez Luis , Lopez-de-Ipina Diego
Published: October 2011

The paper presents the results of applying the VISIR (Virtual Instrument Systems in Reality) system at the course of analog electronics for various degrees of the Faculty of Engineering of the University of Deusto (Spain). The efficiency of the VISIR had been monitored during past three years. Studentsâ?? feedback was collected and analyzed. The research shows: 1) VISIR system is functional and useful learning instrument; 2) teacher experience at VISIR plays crucial role in its integration into student experimentation activities; 3) students get best knowledge and skills in the analog electronics from combination of experiments at traditional laboratory and remote lab/ VISIR.
Adding New Features to New and Existing Remote Experiments through their Integration in WebLab-Deusto
Authors: Orduña Pablo , Irurzun Jaime , Rodriguez-Gil Luis , Garcia-Zubia Javier , Gazzola Fabricio , López-de-Ipiña Diego
Published: October 2011

During the last decade, efforts have been made in the development and publishing of remote experiments for educational purposes. In order to reduce the duplicity of work and to improve the common requirements that are shared by different remote laboratories, remote experiment management platforms have been developed, such as MIT iLabs, LabShare Sahara or WebLab-Deusto. In this paper, we describe how the development of experiments is handled in WebLab-Deusto, supporting both managed (developed used the APIs provided by WebLab-Deusto) and unmanaged experiments (using Virtual Machines or LabVIEW), and comparing both approaches. It also shows the results of integrating remote experiments under this system, with the use case of VISIR, the electronics remote laboratory developed in BTH.
Becoming Creative through Self Observation
Authors: Ayiter Elif
Published: October 2011

This study describes some of the key components of an art educational domain entitled ground, which is being developed specifically for three dimensional online builder’s worlds, also called the metaverse. This undertaking takes its trajectory from ‘the Groundcourse’, a revolutionary art educational strategy based on cybernetics, developed and implemented in England during the 1960’s, upon which the author proposes to develop an art educational strategy based upon self observation. Since this proposal strongly takes into account second order cybernetics, a brief survey into the field as well as an overview of Gordon Pask’s learning theories is provided. Approaches for adapting these founding theories, through a consideration of the potential novel affordances of a three dimensional online builder’s world, is described through two case studies based upon autonomous learning and self observation implemented through avatars.
Introducing Quality of Service Criteria into Supply Chain Management for Excellence
Authors: Gumzej Roman , Gajšek Brigita
Published: October 2011

This article is focused on a sub domain of quality, namely, quality of service. Considering supply chain management, the authors believe that it is important to distinguish between a quality of product (also service) offered by producers and service providers and a quality of service which is achieved between any supplier and customer, not only a consumer, along a supply chain. Quality of product represents producer’s/service provider’s commitment and is subject of various quality certificates issued by inspection authorities. This research examines the quality of service, which is provided by a supplier to its customer along the supply chain, between any pair of chain elements fulfilling this relation, including the common retailer-consumer relation. The authors introduce measurement points into a consumer-centric supply chain model for the defined criteria and defined the method of their monitoring and overall supply chain quality of service evaluation. Finally, the authors assess the envisaged impact of the results of their measurements on supply chain excellence, providing management with an opportunity to identify weak spots.
An Improved Lightweight RFID Authentication Protocol
Authors: Zhang Xiaowen , Zhang Zhanyang , Wei Xinzhou
Published: October 2011

This study extends the vulnerability analysis of a RFID authentication protocol and offers solutions to security weaknesses through enhanced measures. Vajda and Buttyan (VB) proposed a lightweight RFID authentication protocol, called XOR. Defend, Fu, and Juels (DFJ) analyzed it and proposed repeated keys and nibble attacks to the protocol. In this paper, we identify the source of vulnerability within VB’s original successive session key permutation algorithm. We propose three improvements, namely removing bad shuffles, hopping the runs, and authenticating mutually, to prevent DFJ’s attacks, thereby significantly strengthening the security of the protocol without introducing extra resource cost.
A Note on the Uniqueness of Positive Solutions for Singular Boundary Value Problems
Authors: Wong Fu-Hsiang , Wang Sheng-Ping , Hong Hsiang-Feng
Published: October 2011

In this paper, the authors examine sufficient condition for the uniqueness of positive solutions of singular Strum-Liouville boundary value problems. The authors use the uniqueness theorems of (E) with respect to the boundary conditions to show that the boundary value problems have one positive solution.
Airport Enterprise Service Bus with Self-Healing Architecture (AESB-SH)
Authors: Al Hadid Issam
Published: October 2011

Airports need to adapt new technologies to react effectively and quickly to customers’ needs and to provide a better service such as the electronic ticket. In addition to the challenges of the ability to respond to the growing requirements of the automatic information interchange between the different systems to ensure safe and efficient airport operations. This paper provides an architecture based on the Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) that improves the information accessibility and sharing across the different Airport’s departments, integrates the existing legacy systems with other applications, and improves and maximizes the system’s reliability, adaptability, robustness, and availability using the Self-Healing Agent.
Project Management Practices and Project Manager Traits as a Key to Successful Information Systems Implementation
Authors: Abu-Taieh Evon M.O. , Abu-Tayeh Jeihan M. , Abu-Tayeh Alia
Published: October 2011

Information Technology project management lingers between science and art. Many will not dwell on such a thought, and define the information technology project manager as the one person that gets the information technology project done. This paper introduces 74 best practices and traits for the novice information systems project manager. The 74 personal traits and best practices were collected from 35 project managers and are based on personal experiences on a number of IT projects. This article provides an interactive platform for the information system technology project manager by catering to their needs for practical insights toward efficient and individually tailored project management.
Efficient Password Scheme Without Trusted Server
Authors: Aboud Sattar J. , Alnuaimi Mohamed , Jabbar Haidar S.
Published: October 2011

In 2005, Lee suggested a password scheme for three participants without trusted server. Lee claimed that the scheme can withstand different attacks and give the perfect secrecy. In this paper, the authors demonstrate what the Lee scheme undergoes from the imitation attack. Simultaneously, the authors suggest an enhanced algorithm to resist the mentioned attacks.
SaaS Multi-Tenancy
Authors: Cai Hong , Reinwald Berthold , Wang Ning , Guo Chang Jie
Published: October 2011

SaaS (Software as a Service) provides new business opportunities for application providers to serve more customers in a scalable and cost-effective way. SaaS also raises new challenges and one of them is multi-tenancy. Multi-tenancy is the requirement of deploying only one shared application to serve multiple customers (i.e. tenant) instead of deploying one dedicated application for each customer. This paper describes the authors’ practice of developing and deploying multi-tenant technologies. This paper targets a technology that could quickly enable existing Java EE (Enterprise Edition) applications to be multi-tenancy enabled thus having the benefit of quick time to market. This paper describes the overall framework of multi-tenant SaaS platform, how to migrate an existing Java EE application, how to provision the multi-tenant application, and how to onboard the tenants. The paper also shows experiments which compare the economics of multi-tenant SaaS deployment versus traditional application deployment (one application for one tenant) with precise data.
Applying Security Policies in Small Business Utilizing Cloud Computing Technologies
Authors: Karadsheh Louay , Alhawari Samer
Published: October 2011

Over a decade ago, cloud computing became an important topic for small and large businesses alike. The new concept promises scalability, security, cost reduction, portability, and availability. While addressing this issue over the past several years, there have been intensive discussions about the importance of cloud computing technologies. Therefore, this paper reviews the transition from traditional computing to cloud computing and the benefit for businesses, cloud computing architecture, cloud computing services classification, and deployment models. Furthermore, this paper discusses the security policies and types of internal risks that a small business might encounter implementing cloud computing technologies. It addresses initiatives towards employing certain types of security policies in small businesses implementing cloud computing technologies to encourage small business to migrate to cloud computing by portraying what is needed to secure their infrastructure using traditional security policies without the complexity used in large corporations.
The Financial Clouds Review
Authors: Chang Victor , Li Chung-Sheng , De Roure David , Wills Gary , Walters Robert John , Chee Clinton
Published: October 2011

This paper demonstrates financial enterprise portability, which involves moving entire application services from desktops to clouds and between different clouds, and is transparent to users who can work as if on their familiar systems. To demonstrate portability, reviews for several financial models are studied, where Monte Carlo Methods (MCM) and Black Scholes Model (BSM) are chosen. A special technique in MCM, Least Square Methods, is used to reduce errors while performing accurate calculations. Simulations for MCM are performed on different types of Clouds. Benchmark and experimental results are presented for discussion. 3D Black Scholes are used to explain the impacts and added values for risk analysis. Implications for banking are also discussed, as well as ways to track risks in order to improve accuracy. A conceptual Cloud platform is used to explain the contributions in Financial Software as a Service (FSaaS) and the IBM Fined Grained Security Framework. This study demonstrates portability, speed, accuracy, and reliability of applications in the clouds, while demonstrating portability for FSaaS and the Cloud Computing Business Framework (CCBF).
Cloud Security Engineering
Authors: Aljawarneh Shadi
Published: October 2011

Information security is a key challenge in the Cloud because the data will be virtualized across different host machines, hosted on the Web. Cloud provides a channel to the service or platform in which it operates. However, the owners of data will be worried because their data and software are not under their control. In addition, the data owner may not recognize where data is geographically located at any particular time. So there is still a question mark over how data will be more secure if the owner does not control its data and software. Indeed, due to shortage of control over the Cloud infrastructure, use of ad-hoc security tools is not sufficient to protect the data in the Cloud; this paper discusses this security. Furthermore, a vision and strategy is proposed to mitigate or avoid the security threats in the Cloud. This broad vision is based on software engineering principles to secure the Cloud applications and services. In this vision, security is built into all phases of Service Development Life Cycle (SDLC), Platform Development Life Cycle (PDLC) or Infrastructure Development Life Cycle (IDLC).
Toward Understanding the Challenges and Countermeasures in Computer Anti-Forensics
Authors: Dahbur Kamal , Mohammad Bassil
Published: October 2011

The term computer anti-forensics (CAF) generally refers to a set of tactical and technical measures intended to circumvent the efforts and objectives of the field of computer and network forensics (CF). Many scientific techniques, procedures, and technological tools have evolved and effectively applied in the field of CF to assist scientists and investigators in acquiring and analyzing digital evidence for the purpose of solving cases that involve the use or misuse of computer systems. CAF has emerged as a CF counterpart that plants obstacles throughout the path of computer investigations. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the challenges introduced by anti-forensics, explore various CAF mechanisms, tools, and techniques, provide a coherent classification for them, and discuss their effectiveness. Moreover, the authors discuss the challenges in implementing effective countermeasures against these techniques. A set of recommendations are presented with future research opportunities.
Architectural Strategies for Green Cloud Computing
Authors: Sasikala P.
Published: October 2011

Opportunities for improving IT efficiency and performance through centralization of resources have increased dramatically in the past few years with the maturation of technologies, such as service oriented architecture, virtualization, grid computing, and management automation. A natural outcome of this is what has become increasingly referred to as cloud computing, where a consumer of computational capabilities sets up or makes use of computing in the cloud network in a self service manner. Cloud computing is evolving, and enterprises are setting up cloud-like, centralized shared infrastructures with automated capacity adjustment that internal departmental customers utilize in a self service manner. Cloud computing promises to speed application deployment, increase innovation, and lower costs all while increasing business agility. This paper discusses the various architectural strategies for clean and green cloud computing. It suggests a variety of ways to take advantage of cloud applications and help identify key issues to figure out the best approach for research and business.
A Framework for Analysing the Impact of Cloud Computing on Local Government in the UK
Authors: Chang Jeffrey
Published: October 2011

Cloud computing is hailed as the next-revolution of computing services. Although there is no precise definition, cloud computing refers to a scalable network infrastructure where consumers receive IT services such as software and data storage through the Internet like a utility on a subscription basis. With an increasing number of data centres hosted by large companies such as Amazon, Google, and Microsoft cloud computing offers potential benefits including cost savings, simpler IT, and reduced energy consumption. Central government and local authorities, like commercial organisations, are considering cloud-based services. However, concerns are raised over issues such as security, access, data protection, and ownership. This paper develops a framework for analysing the likely impact of cloud computing on local government and suggests an agenda for research in this emerging area.
Survey of the State-of-the-Art of Cloud Computing
Authors: Ahuja Sanjay P. , Rolli Alan C.
Published: October 2011

Cloud computing as a computational model has gathered tremendous traction. It is not completely clear what this term represents though it generally is thought to include a pay-as-you model for computation and storage. This paper explains what Cloud Computing is and contrasts it with Grid computing. It describes the major cloud services offered, discusses architectural details, and gives details about the infrastructure of Cloud Computing. This paper surveys the state of cloud computing and associated research and discusses the probable directions to the future of this evolving field of computing.
Fault Tolerant Architecture to Cloud Computing Using Adaptive Checkpoint
Authors: Belalem Ghalem , Limam Said
Published: October 2011

Cloud computing refers to both the applications delivered as services over the Internet and the hardware and systems software in the datacenters that provide those services. Failures of any type are common in current datacenters, partly due to the number of nodes. Fault tolerance has become a major task for computer engineers and software developers because the occurrence of faults increases the cost of using resources and to meet the user expectations, the most fundamental user expectation is, of course, that his or her application correctly finishes independent of faults in the node. This paper proposes a fault tolerant architecture to Cloud Computing that uses an adaptive Checkpoint mechanism to assure that a task running can correctly finish in spite of faults in the nodes in which it is running. The proposed fault tolerant architecture is simultaneously transparent and scalable.
Integrating Online Tools to Motivate Young English Language Learners to Practice English Outside the Classroom
Authors: Terrell Shelly Sanchez
Published: October 2011

Recent research shows that online tools such as: games, wikis, speaking avatars, and interactive stories can be a positive force for English Language Learners (ELLs). It also shows that when ELLs have access to online tools, they are motivated to practice English outside the classroom (Aydin, 2007; Colombo & Colombo, 2007; Son, 2007). Most of this research is undertaken with older learners. This case study attempts to determine if young learners are motivated to practice English outside the classroom if provided with access to various online tools managed via a wiki. A wiki is a free educational web space, which allows a number of people to work together collaboratively on documents with embedded elements and linking. The teacher interviewed parents and kept observational notes. The study results suggest that the online tools improve the listening and speaking skills of young learners.
ESAP Students’ Perceptions of Skills Learning in Computer-Mediated Intercultural Collaboration
Authors: Lindner Rachel
Published: October 2011

Reports on computer-mediated intercultural exchanges generally focus on their relevance for acquiring linguistic or intercultural competence, but little research exists on other educational outcomes, such as the development of electronic literacies, academic literacies, or study skills. This article uses a multiliteracies approach to telecollaboration, viewing it as an opportunity to develop different skills sets considered important for studying in the 21st century. The discussion is positioned within the field of English for Specific Academic Purposes and describes an online exchange between Sociology students at the universities of Munich (Germany) and Ljubljana (Slovenia). Qualitative research is used to surface participants’ perceptions of skills learning through the exchange and provide insights into the competences that these learning environments facilitate.
Integrating Technology on Initial Training Courses
Authors: Constantinides Marisa
Published: October 2011

Teacher trainers/educators play a key role in the process of normalisation, as defined by Bax (2003), in the training of foreign language teachers to use technology as a regular part of their practice. This study explores teacher trainer attitudes towards adopting technology, their readiness to use it on teacher training courses, and their current levels of comfort in integrating it on Cambridge CELTA courses, a pre-service course currently followed by approximately 12,000 candidates annually. The results and discussion will stimulate some reflection as to what degree such courses are responsive to the objective of integrating technology in the training of foreign language teachers.
Effects of Feedback on Learning Strategies in Learning Journals
Authors: Roelle Julian , Berthold Kirsten , Fries Stefan
Published: October 2011

Feedback on learning strategies is a promising instructional support measure. However, research on the expertise reversal effect suggests that if instructional support measures are provided to expert learners, these learners would have to integrate and cross-reference redundant instructional guidance with available knowledge structures, resulting in less available resources for effective learning processes. Thus, feedback might be detrimental for learners who possess high-quality learning strategies. Against this background, the authors used an online learning management system to employ a feedback procedure that included highly elaborated feedback on learning strategies in a learning journal. The effects of this feedback procedure were tested in a field study using a within-subject design with the factor feedback (no vs. yes). Participants were 246 university students who wrote journal entries over an entire term. The results show that providing feedback to low expertise learners is effective, whereas the effectiveness of feedback is reversed regarding high expertise learners.
Comparing the Characteristics of Text-Speak Used by English and Japanese Students
Authors: Underwood Jean , Okubayashi Taiichiro
Published: October 2011

Text messaging is pervasive among the youth of many cultures, but the extent and nature of text-speak, the modified host language, is open to question. This study of English and Japanese undergraduates specifically investigated whether text-speak is a product of the technological constraints on the host language or is influenced by gender differences in communication style. The study had a between-subjects factorial design with two independent variables: language (English, Japanese) and gender (male, female). The dependent variable was frequency and type of text modification. The results show both a qualitative and quantitative difference in texting between the two groups with English texters being more active. However, English and Japanese females made more adaptations to the host-language than their within-culture male peers, even though the structure of the two host languages was very different. The greater use of abbreviations by females compared to males might be explained either by a higher engagement with this mode of communication or diverging goals between the sexes when texting.
Gamers’ Motivations and Problematic Gaming
Authors: Kwok Nikole Wing Ka , Khoo Angeline
Published: October 2011

This study explores the factors that contribute to problematic gaming among players of Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games (MMOs for short), in particular, the game World of Warcraft. It examines motivations based on the Self Determination Theory (SDT) and motivations based on Yee’s player orientations. A total of 128 gamers participated in the online survey. Results showed that achievement and immersion player orientations are correlated with extrinsic motivation in terms of external, introjected and identified regulations, as well as intrinsic motivation. Social orientation is only correlated with identified regulation and intrinsic motivation. Problematic gaming is also correlated with all types of extrinsic motivation, and intrinsic motivation, as well as with achievement and immersion player orientations but not with social player orientation. Achievement orientation and introjected regulation both positively predicted problematic gaming, while identified regulation negatively predicted it.
A Second Life Within Second Life
Authors: Linares Kevin , Subrahmanyam Kaveri , Cheng Roy , Guan Shu-Sha Angie
Published: October 2011

Virtual worlds such as Second Life (SL) are online computer-based world-like spaces, where users assume virtual selves or avatars to interact with others, create objects, and engage in a variety of transactions. This paper examines SL residents’ avatars, activities, and the relation between residents’ offline characteristics and online avatars and activities. The authors examined whether there was a relationship between residents’ identity style and online beliefs and activities, specifically those related to self-presentation and identity exploration via avatars and relationship formation as they are related to one’s sense of self. An online survey of 378 SL residents was conducted, who ranged in age from 18 to 69 years. Respondents were asked to complete an SL survey (containing questions about their avatars, use, and activities within SL) and the Identity style inventory sixth grade reading level (ISI-6G). Results suggested that SL avatars were mostly human, and were of the same gender as the residents’ offline self; SL activities were similar to every day offline ones. The study suggests SL residents may not be creating second lives within this virtual world, but are instead bringing elements of their first or offline lives into this online context.
Times of Change, Times of Turbulence
Authors: Boyd William , Newton Diane
Published: October 2011

Rapid changes in academic work environments raise ethical dilemmas in supporting students, implementing policies, and developing professional practice. New teaching technologies require academics to consider community aspects of learning and teaching and impacts on student learning in networked environments. This paper critically reflects on recent experience at a small Australian regional university adapting teaching- notably through on-line environments- to respond to student learning need diversity. Applying Shapiro’s use of the ethics of care, critique, justice and the profession to examine ethical dilemmas associated with increasingly networked and on-line learning, the authors propose that an ethics of community will assist finding practical solutions to ethical dilemmas in curriculum development and delivery. This approach shifts from the individual as moral agent to ethical practice as communal processes. Considering community practices and processes can frame and critique learning and teaching approaches, policies and administration to assist students and staff develop ethical scholarship and professionalism.
The Evolution of E-learning Management Systems
Authors: Alves da Silva Nuno Sotero , Morais da Costa Gonçalo Jorge , Prior Mary , Rogerson Simon
Published: October 2011

The development of educational technologies is enhancing a distinctive feature of learning environments: the learner’s personalized environment. However, the current literature in e-learning seems to neglect an important discussion: will individuals (learners and lecturers) and organizations face an enhancement concerning ethical dilemmas due to this evolution? To promote this discussion, this paper builds on a consideration of e-learning definition and its ethical dilemmas, and human-centred learning concept and its dimensions, to examine the implications of integrating social and cultural contexts. By examining the evolution of e-learning management systems the argument progresses to a discussion of the relationships between pedagogy and ethics. By framing evidence at different scales, the authors critically reflect on the ethical dilemmas embedded in e-learning systems. The discussion concludes with advocating the adoption of an extension of “three P” mode of pedagogy to become the “P3E” model: personalization, participation, productivity, lecturer’s ethics, learner’s ethics, and organizational ethics.
The International SOLETM of Finnish Higher Education
Authors: Hoffman David M. , Välimaa Jussi , Saarinen Taina , Söderqvist Minna , Raunio Mika , Korhonen Marjaana
Published: October 2011

This participative inquiry critiques recent management trends in the Finnish higher education system. The six authors, presently working in three Finnish universities, focus on strategic internationalization policy to highlight the argument. Global trends in internationalization are introduced, followed by an experienced-based meta-analysis, drawing on several recent studies by the authors. This analysis points to significant challenges and blind spots that exist- well hidden- alongside the Finnish higher education system’s best features. The increasing use of ICT-based management routines are called into question with respect to higher education practices, capacity and linked societal challenges. The analysis indicates these challenges remain unengaged- even obscured by- the rapidly proliferating number of ICT-based university management systems. Although none of the authors are specialists in Philosophy or ethics, the interpretive-level findings presented by this interdisciplinary group of scholars illuminates ways forward for the emerging field of specialists focused on ICT-based network-related ethics.
The Significance of Network Ethics Education in Japanese Universities
Authors: Ueno Tetsu , Maruyama Yasushi
Published: October 2011

Cell phone abuse amongst Japanese school students, including sex crimes and bullying, are commonly managed with filters and phone bans. Many believe these measures are more effective than moral education. Japanese teenagers therefore enter college without moral education in the Internet society, which can cause problems on campus: students plagiarizing from the Internet, or posting anonymous defamatory messages on bulletin boards. Japanese universities address these problems ineffectively. Problems are caused by both student ignorance of network ethics and moral immatureness. Therefore, it is insufficient to provide only information ethics knowledge; students require a citizenship education to learn to build a moral community in the globalized network society. Here, the authors examine the effectiveness and difficulties in the practice of educating students to be moral subjects in such a society. Students are encouraged to debate ethical and practical issues, to express ethical remarks, and to understand the impact of their remarks.
Transparent Classrooms
Authors: Ganito Carla
Published: October 2011

This article analyzes the use of the mobile phone in Portuguese classrooms in order to examine new practices of disclosure and transparency. A literature review provides a global context of the nature of the mobile phone, and contextualizes an overview of the current usage trends in Portugal. The high uptake rates of mobile phone usage in Portugal means that this country can be considered an interesting case study for the usage of mobile phones in educational settings. Evidence of a young mobile culture gathered in recent research studies conducted at the national level and on a qualitative case study of high-school teachers, provides a basis for a practical discussion of the impact of the mobile phone on the Portuguese education system. Building on the views from different actors- students, teachers, parents, and school administrators- the paper closes with the proposition of the mobile phone as a valid educational tool that requires new skills and strategies for a successful integration.
Adapted Approach for Omnidirectional Egomotion Estimation*
Authors: Radgui A. , Demonceaux C. , Mouaddib E. , Rziza M. , Aboutajdine D.
Published: October 2011

Egomotion estimation is based principally on the estimation of the optical flow in the image. Recent research has shown that the use of omnidirectional systems with large fields of view allow overcoming the limitation presented in planar-projection imagery in order to address the problem of motion analysis. For omnidirectional images, the 2D motion is often estimated using methods developed for perspective images. This paper adapts motion field calculated using adapted method which takes into account the distortions existing in the omnidirectional image. This 2D motion field is then used as input to the egomotion estimation process using spherical representation of the motion equation. Experimental results are shown and comparison of error measures are given to confirm that succeeded estimation of camera motion will be obtained when using an adapted method to estimate optical flow.
Adaptive Kansei Search Method Using User’s Subjective Criterion Deviation
Authors: Sakurai Yoshitaka , Knauf Rainer , Kawabe Takashi , Tsuruta Setsuo
Published: October 2011

Sensibility-vectors (kansei-vectors) are useful for retrieving objects like pictures, music, perfumes, and apparels on the Internet. The sensibility-vector is an array of values, each indicating a degree of feeling or impression represented as sensibility word or kansei word. However, even such an approach leaves a gap between user’s subjective sensibility (image, feeling) value and the corresponding one stored in the database. This paper proposes a search method to automatically and adaptively decrease such gaps by estimating a subjective criterion deviation (SCD) of the user’s search histories and fuzzy modeling. Conventional methods need tests and questionnaires beforehand to infer user’s individual sensibility to his or her instinct or impression. The proposed method automatically decreases such gaps without users’ burden caused by such conventional methods as requiring questionnaires. Moreover, this method reflects the dynamic changes in user’s preferences. Namely, this method does not need to know user’s preferences beforehand with questionnaires. An experiment was conducted by building and using a perfume search system. Experimental data results showed that the proposed method is effective.
An Evaluation Framework and a Benchmark for Multi/Hyperspectral Image Compression
Authors: Delcourt Jonathan , Mansouri Alamin , Sliwa Tadeusz , Voisin Yvon
Published: October 2011

This paper benchmarks three multi/hyperspectral image compression approaches: the classic Multi-2D compression approach and two different implementations of 3D approach (Full 3D and Hybrid). All approaches are combined with a spectral PCA decorrelation stage to optimize performance. These three compression approaches are compared within a larger comparison framework than the conventionally used PSNR, which includes eight metrics divided into three families. The comparison is carried out with regard to variations in bitrates, spatial, and spectral dimensions variations of images. The time and memory consumption difference between the three approaches is also discussed. Results of this comparison show the weaknesses and strengths of each approach.
A Robust Embedding Scheme and an Efficient Evaluation Protocol for 3D Meshes Watermarking
Authors: Ben Jabra Saoussen , Zagrouba Ezzeddine
Published: October 2011

This paper proposes two main contributions. In the first one, a 3D mesh watermarking using Maximally Stable Meshes detection and multi-signatures embedding is presented. The originality of this scheme is to detect the attack type applied on marked mesh. In plus, it is robust against numerous attacks, blind and invisible. The proposed scheme uses the Maximally Stable meshes (MSMs) to insert signature. After MSMs detection using an extension of Maximally Stable Efficient Regions, three MSMs are selected to be marked. Then, three different signatures are embedded using three different watermarking schemes. This embedding allows knowing the type of the applied attack by detecting which of the signatures resisted. In more, it maximizes robustness by profiting from advantages of every scheme. The second contribution is a new evaluation protocol for 3D watermarking which allows generating a performance score for 3D mesh watermarking schemes. This protocol is based on six criteria having different weights in performance score computing. Finally, this protocol is used to evaluate the proposed watermarking scheme and to compare it with other algorithms. The obtained results verified the good performances of the proposed algorithm which presents the highest score.
Direct 3D Information Determination in an Uncalibrated Stereovision System by Using Evolutionary Algorithms
Authors: Koch Alain , Dipanda Albert , Bourgeois-République Claire
Published: October 2011

This paper proposes a 3D panoramic shape reconstruction method based on an uncalibrated stereovision system (USS) composed of five cameras circularly located around the object to be analysed. First, some interesting points are detected from markers placed on the object such that they are visible by two successive cameras of the USS. These points are then matched on both images acquired by a couple of successive cameras. This process is repeated for all the couples of cameras. Second, by using an evolutionary algorithm, the depth values of the different interesting points are calculated. A comparison with a traditional method based on calibrated cameras validates the accuracy of 3D information provided by the proposed method. Finally, by combining all the interesting points, a panoramic view of the object is obtained.