bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Faster Self-Organizing Fuzzy Neural Network Training and Improved Autonomy with Time-Delayed Synapses for Locally Recurrent Learning
Authors: Coyle Damien , Prasad Girijesh , McGinnity Martin
Published: May 2011

This chapter describes a number of modifications to the learning algorithm and architecture of the self-organizing fuzzy neural network (SOFNN) to improve its computational efficiency and learning ability. To improve the SOFNN’s computational efficiency, a new method of checking the network structure after it has been modified is proposed. Instead of testing the entire structure every time it has been modified, a record is kept of each neuron’s firing strength for all data previously clustered by the network. This record is updated as training progresses and is used to reduce the computational load of checking network structure changes, to ensure performance degradation does not occur, resulting in significantly reduced training times. It is shown that the modified SOFNN compares favorably to other evolving fuzzy systems in terms of accuracy and structural complexity. In addition, a new architecture of the SOFNN is proposed where recurrent feedback connections are added to neurons in layer three of the structure. Recurrent connections allow the network to learn the temporal information from data and, in contrast to pure feed forward architectures which exhibit static input-output behavior in advance, recurrent models are able to store information from the past (e.g., past measurements of the time-series) and are therefore better suited to analyzing dynamic systems. Each recurrent feedback connection includes a weight which must be learned. In this work a learning approach is proposed where the recurrent feedback weight is updated online (not iteratively) and proportional to the aggregate firing activity of each fuzzy neuron. It is shown that this modification can significantly improve the performance of the SOFNN’s prediction capacity under certain constraints.
Biologically-Inspired Learning and Intelligence
Authors: Temel Turgay
Published: May 2011

Since biologically-inspired intelligent systems with learning and decision-making capabilities vastly act upon comparison among inputs, the ability to select those inputs which satisfy certain conditions is of great significance in realization of such systems. Moreover intelligent systems need to operate with concurrency so as to reflect inherited capability of their biological counterparts like human. Due to difficulties in programmability, storage and design complexities, the analog implementation has been considerably less favored in most computational information processing systems. However, in the case of biologically-inspired computation, their suitability for concurrency, accuracy and capability in simulating the natural behavior of biological signals, analog neural information processing is regarded an attractive solution. Benefiting the full advantage involves comprehensive understanding and knowledge of what trade-offs can be established with design topologies available and theoretical necessities. On the other hand, fuzzy reasoning offers rule-based inferential manipulation on inputs where it expresses the input-output relationship in terms of clauses. Considering a nonlinear operation carried out by artificial neural networks based on experience, realization of rule-based clauses is much easier. This chapter introduces fundamental notions of fuzzy reasoning, and fuzzy-based analog design approaches. Rather than resorting on analytical derivation for the architecture of interest, the main focus is directed at suitability for use, which is expected to indicate possibility toward developing complex intelligent systems. It should be noted that the circuits having selectivity property in deciding maximum and/or minimum on inputs demonstrate their use in much broader field than inference, thus they have great importance in realization of information processing systems. The chapter presents a very compact selectivity circuit as decision maker for the minimum of its inputs. Further to it, a considerably simple yet elaborate membership structure is introduced. The circuit simplifies the fuzzy controller design. Since mostly decision making is performed on a (dis)similarity measure between inputs, e.g. the input and label patterns for respective categories, it is convenient to express the proximity in terms of a metric. The chapter also introduces important designs proposed for assessing the similarity in the Euclidean distance.
FPGA Coprocessor for Simulation of Neural Networks Using Compressed Matrix Storage
Authors: Bornschein Jörg
Published: May 2011

An FPGA-based coprocessor has been implemented which simulates the dynamics of a large recurrent neural network composed of binary neurons. The design has been used for unsupervised learning of receptive fields. Since the number of neurons to be simulated (>104) exceeds the available FPGA logic capacity for direct implementation, a set of streaming processors has been designed. Given the state- and activity vectors of the neurons at time t and a sparse connectivity matrix, these streaming processors calculate the state- and activity vectors for time t + 1. The operation implemented by the streaming processors can be understood as a generalized form of a sparse matrix vector product (SpMxV). The largest dataset, the sparse connectivity matrix, is stored and processed in a compressed format to better utilize the available memory bandwidth.
A Novel DCGA Optimization Technique for Guaranteed BIBO-Stable Frequency-Response Masking Digital Filters Incorporating Bilinear Lossless Discrete-integrator IIR Interpolation Sub-Filters
Authors: Bokhari Syed , Nowrouzian Behrouz
Published: May 2011

This work is concerned with the development of a novel diversity-controlled (DC) genetic algorithm (GA) for the design and rapid optimization of frequency-response masking (FRM) digital filters incorporating bilinear lossless discrete-integrator (LDI) IIR interpolation sub-filters. The selection of FRM approach is inspired by the fact it lends itself to the design of practical sharp-transition band digital filters in terms of gradual-transition band FIR interpolation sub-filters. The proposed DCGA optimization is carried out over the canonical-signed-digit (CSD) multiplier coefficient space, resulting in FRM digital filters which are capable of direct implementation in digital hardware. A novel CSD look-up table (LUT) scheme is developed so that in every stage of DCGA optimization, the IIR interpolation sub-filters constituent in the intermediate and final FRM digital filters are guaranteed to be automatically BIBO stable. The proposed DCGA optimization permits simultaneous optimization of the magnitude-frequency as well of the group-delay frequency response of the desired FRM digital filters. An example is given to illustrate the application of the resulting DCGA optimization to the design of a lowpass FRM digital filter incorporating a fifth-order bilinear-LDI interpolation subfilter.
Neuromodeling and Natural Optimization of Nonlinear Devices and Circuits
Authors: Silva Paulo H. da F. , Cruz Rossana M. S. , D’Assunção Adaildo G.
Published: May 2011

This chapter describes some/new artificial neural network (ANN) neuromodeling techniques and natural optimization algorithms for electromagnetic modeling and optimization of nonlinear devices and circuits. Neuromodeling techniques presented are based on single hidden layer feedforward neural network configurations, which are trained by the resilient back-propagation algorithm to solve the modeling learning tasks associated with device or circuit under analysis. Modular configurations of these feedforward networks and optimal neural networks are also presented considering new activation functions for artificial neurons. In addition, some natural optimization algorithms are described, such as continuous genetic algorithm (GA), a proposed improved-GA and particle swarm optimization (PSO). These natural optimization algorithms are blended with multilayer perceptrons (MLP) artificial neural network models for fast and accurate resolution of optimization problems. Some examples of applications are presented and include nonlinear RF/microwave devices and circuits, such as transistors, filters and antennas.
Nursing Knowledge
Authors: Carey Michael , Waters Cheryl , Cashin Andrew
Published: May 2011

What is nursing knowing? Is it scientific knowing or practical thinking? This chapter discusses what we know of thinking in the western philosophical tradition and how this can be brought to bear on this complex question. The thinking adventure situates mindfulness and praxis as essential elements of nurse practice.
Telenursing
Authors: Edirippulige Sisira
Published: May 2011

Evidence is emerging that the use of the information and communication technologies (ICT) in healthcare settings facilitates better quality care. In general terms telenursing is the use of technology for delivering nursing care at distance. Evidence suggests that telenursing applications can be effective in both healthcare and non-institutional settings. Nurses’ readiness to utilize telenursing applications is an important prerequisite for the wider use of this tool. This chapter examines the best evidence for telenursing practices and reviews the studies relating to the nurses knowledge, perceptions and expectations on using technology in their routine practice.
Case Study
Authors: Murphy Judy , Harper Ellen , Devine Elizabeth C. , Burke Laura J. , Hook Mary L.
Published: May 2011

A partnership between Aurora Health Care, Cerner Corporation, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Nursing that focused on the design of an informatics solution that aimed to allow evidenced based information to be available to nurses at the point of care and promote engagement in the electronic recording of patient data is described. The process of determining need, building the solution, integrating into nurse practice, and evaluation is laid out.
Urban Screens and Transcultural Consumption between South Korea and Australia
Authors: Yue Audrey , Jung Sun
Published: May 2011

This chapter examines urban screens as sites of media convergence and transcultural consumption. Using two case studies in Melbourne (Australia) and Songdo (Incheon, South Korea), this chapter considers how these screens have emerged through technological innovations led by cultural planning and urban regeneration. Furthermore, using audience reception and cultural participation studies, this chapter critically examines the augmentation of these spaces as sites for cultural citizenship and transcultural consumption. Urban screens, this chapter argues, are new contact zones of mediascapes, social belonging and transcultural identities.
Going Online in the PC Graveyard
Authors: Kang Inkyu
Published: May 2011

This chapter explores how the keitai (mobile) Internet has come to dominate Japan, marginalizing the PC-based Internet. The discussion focuses on the country’s cultural and ideological aspects that have worked as driving forces behind its mobile Internet boom. Special emphasis will be given to the validity of the common belief that the Japanese language has been a barrier to PC and Internet diffusion. This chapter argues that the Japanese language has actually encouraged rather than discouraged Internet adoption in Japan. Relying on media comparative analysis, this essay examines how Japan has developed a qualitatively different Internet use pattern that cannot be revealed in statistics like “number of Internet subscribers” or “household Internet penetration rates.”
Fostering Innovation in Converging Audiovisual Media Services
Authors: Sparviero Sergio
Published: May 2011

The digitalization of media content and communication processes has been used as the main justification for an important turn in the design of regulations affecting various audiovisual media services and information industries, more in general. A brief case study presented in this chapter will testify that from the 1950s until the 1990s the United States’ regulator facilitated the introduction of fundamental innovations by preventing vertical mergers between different audiovisual media services. On the contrary, nowadays regulators in different parts of the world seems to agree that differentiating between different technological platforms can hinder the emergence of new multimedia services based on technology convergence as well as the establishment of inter-platform competition. Alternative economic principles and the rationale of the old regulatory regime are used here to challenge these mainstream arguments, which justify the raise of the new and ‘converged’ information conglomerates.
The Three Cs of Key Music Sector Trends Today
Authors: Preston Paschal , Rogers Jim
Published: May 2011

Drawing upon a recent examination of contemporary trends in the music industry, this chapter explores the evolving relationships between new digital media technologies, socio-economic factors and media cultures as we enter the second decade of the twenty-first century. We examine the implications of these trends with regard to three fundamental concepts in the analysis of culture, namely commodification, concentration and convergence. We draw upon these concepts to guide our study of a music industry that is widely perceived as a leading site for new media developments. In this study we question the extent to which the music industry is experiencing transformations or significant disruptions resulting from technological innovations, or whether it is actually much more a case of ‘business as usual’ in the commercial music industry. Thus, this chapter interrogates and challenges the dominant framing of current debates around the notion of ‘crisis’ in the music industry. Furthermore, it considers how the concepts of commodification, concentration and convergence remain crucial to an informed and thorough understanding of current trends in the media and cultural industries.
Routing in Wireless Ad Hoc and Sensor Networks
Authors: Stojmenovic Milos
Published: May 2011

Routing is the process of finding a path from a source node to a destination node. Since each node has a limited transmission range, the message is normally forwarded by other nodes in an ad hoc or sensor network. Therefore routes normally consist of several hops. Proposed routing schemes can be divided into topological and position based, depending on the availability of geographic location for nodes. Topological routing may be proactive or reactive. Position based routing consists of greedy approaches applied when a neighbor closer to the destination (than the node currently holding the packet) exists, and recovery schemes otherwise. In order to preserve bandwidth and power which are critical resources in ad hoc and sensor networks, localized approaches are proposed, where each node acts based solely on the location of itself, its neighbors, and the destination. There are various measures of optimality which lead to various schemes which optimize hop count, power, network lifetime, delay, or other metrics. A uniform solution based on ratio of cost and progress is described here
Convergence of Wireless Technologies in Consolidating E-Government Applications in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bwalya Kelvin Joseph , Chris Rensleigh , Mandla Ndlovu
Published: May 2011

The convergence of wireless applications presents a greater hope for consolidating e-Government (ICT-enabled or online government) applications even in resource-constrained countries such as those in Africa. This chapter presents an exploratory study that aims at discussing the extent as to how convergence of wireless technologies from different vendors promises to contribute to the consolidation of e-Government applications in Sub-Saharan-Africa (SSA). This is done by reviewing the different adoption stages of ICT and e-Government in SSA. It looks at challenges facing adoption of wireless technologies (GSMs, Wireless Internet Access, satellite transmission, etc.) across all the socio-economic value chains in SSA. The chapter looks at Botswana and South Africa as case studies by bringing out the different interventions that have been done in the realm of facilitating a conducive environment for the convergence of different wireless technologies. Out of the analysis of legal, regulatory, market and spectrum policies affecting the adoption of wireless communications in SSAs, the chapter draws out recommendations on how to consolidate wireless communications to be adopted in different socio-economic setups (e.g. e-government, e-Health, e-Banking, etc.).
Providing Ubiquitous Access to Synthetic Sign Language Contents over Multiple Platforms
Authors: Lopez-Colino Fernando , Colas Jose
Published: May 2011

This work presents the design of a distributed sign language synthesis architecture. The main objective of this design is to adapt the synthesis process to the diversity of user devices. The synthesis process has been divided into several independent modules that can be run either in a dedicated server or in the client device. Depending on the modules assigned to the server or to the client, four different scenarios have been defined. These scenarios may vary from a heavy client design which executes the whole synthesis process, to a light client design similar to a video player. These four scenarios will provide equivalent signed message quality independently of the device’s hardware and software resources.
Wireless and Mobile Technologies Improving Diabetes Self-Management
Authors: Årsand Eirik , Tatara Naoe , Hartvigsen Gunnar
Published: May 2011

The technological revolution that has created a vast health problem due to a drastic change in lifestyle also holds great potential for individuals to take better care of their own health. This is the focus of the presented overview of current applications, and prospects for future research and innovations. The presented overview and the main goals of the systems included are to utilize information and communication technologies (ICT) as aids in self-management of individual health challenges, for the disease Diabetes, both for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. People with diabetes are generally as mobile as the rest of the population, and should have access to mobile technologies for managing their disease. Forty-seven relevant studies and prototypes of mobile, diabetes-specific self-management tools meeting our inclusion criteria have been identified; 27 publicly available products and services, nine relevant patent applications, and 31 examples of other disease-related mobile self-management systems are included to provide a broader overview of the state of the art. Finally, the reviewed systems are compared, and future research directions are suggested.
Public Safety Networks
Authors: Iapichino Giuliana , Câmara Daniel , Bonnet Christian , Filali Fethi
Published: May 2011

Disaster can be defined as the onset of an extreme event causing profound damage or loss as perceived by the afflicted people. The networks built in order to detect and handle these events are called Public safety networks (PSNs). These networks have the fundamental role of providing communication and coordination for emergency operations. Many of the problems of the PSN field come from the heterogeneity of systems and agencies involved in the crisis site and from their mobility at the disaster site. The main aim of this book chapter is to provide a broad view of the PSN field, presenting the different emergency management phases, PSNs requirements, technologies and some of the future research directions for this field.
Determinants of Loyalty Intention in Portuguese Mobile Market
Authors: Tiago Maria Borges , Amaral Francisco
Published: May 2011

Our work conceptualizes and highlights the determinants of customers’ loyalty in the Portuguese mobile market. We raise questions about the interrelationships of the cost and values dimensions and the consequences of these relationships on customer satisfaction and trust and consequently loyalty among different operators, addressing some recent models. By organizing and synthesizing the major research streams and tests empirically a conceptual framework through a SEM, with data gather in a survey of Portuguese clients, the present study advances knowledge on the nature of the relative importance of different components of loyalty to mobile communications operators. Some useful preliminary insights were produced related to customers’ retention process in primary mobile operator, which appears strongly related to price/quality, followed by the emotional connection to the operator staff and others clients. Nonetheless, a considerable number of issues were left for future research, including the possibility of extending the investigation to other countries.
I-Gate
Authors: Dantas Rummenigge , Gonçalves Luiz Marcos , Schneider Claudio , Burlamaqui Aquiles , Dias Ricardo , Sena Hugo , Melo Julio cesar
Published: May 2011

We present in this chapter the I-GATE architecture, a new approach, which includes a set of rules and software architecture, to connect users from different interfaces and devices in the same virtual environment, transparently, even with low capacity of resources. The system detects the user resources and provides transformations on the data in order for its visualization in 3D, 2D and textual-only (1D) interfaces. This allows users from any interface to get a connection in the system using any device and to access and exchange information with other users (including ones with other interface types) in a straightforward way, without need to changing hardware or software. We formalize the problem, including modeling, implementation, and usage of the system, also introducing some applications that we have created and implemented in order to evaluate our proposal. We have used these applications in cell phones, PDAs, Digital Television, and heterogeneous computers, using the same architecture, with success.
Technologies to Improve the Quality of Handovers
Authors: Moreira Edson , Yokoyama Roberto , Vanni Renata Maria , Kimura Bruno
Published: May 2011

Modern life makes people internet-dependents. They want to move connected and care for always getting the best options for connectivity, hoping between providers. Freedom for choosing providers and the business options which these exchanges can offer are the motivations for this chapter. After pointing out some characteristics which make the basics of the current handover technologies, we describe an information infrastructure, based on context and ontologies which can be used to foster an intelligent, efficient and profitable scenario for managing handovers in the Next Generation Networks. Some experiments are described and the potential of using these technologies are evaluated.
Making Location-Aware Computing Working Accurately in Smart Spaces
Authors: Mantoro Teddy , Ayu Media , Weyn Maarten
Published: May 2011

In smart environment, making a location-aware personal computing working accurately is a way of getting close to the pervasive computing vision. The best candidate to determine a user location in indoor environment is by using IEEE 802.11 (Wi-Fi) signals, since it is more and more widely available and installed on most mobile devices used by users. Unfortunately, the signal strength, signals quality and noise of Wi-Fi, in worst scenario, it fluctuates up to 33% because of the reflection, refraction, temperature, humidity, the dynamic environment, etc. We present our current development on a light-weight algorithm, which is easy, simple but robust in producing the determination of user location using WiFi signals. The algorithm is based on “multiple observers” on ?k-Nearest Neighbour. We extend our approach in the estimation indoor-user location by using combination of different technologies, i.e. WiFi, GPS, GSM and Accelerometer. The algorithm is based on opportunistic localization algorithm and fuse different sensor data in order to be able to use the data which is available at the user position and processable in a mobile device.
User Pro-Activities Based on Context History
Authors: Mantoro Teddy , Ayu Media
Published: May 2011

Context-aware computing is a class of mobile computing that can sense its physical environment and adapt its behavior accordingly; it is a component of the ubiquitous or pervasive computing environment that has become apparent with innovations and challenges. This chapter reviews the concept of context-aware computing, with focus on the user activities that benefit from context history. How user activities in the smart environment can make use of context histories in applications that apply the concept of context prediction integrated with user pro-activity is explored. A brief summary of areas which benefit from these technologies as well as corresponding issues are also investigated.
An Approach to Mobile Grid Platforms for the Development and Support of Complex Ubiquitous Applications
Authors: Bertolli Carlo , Buono Daniele , Mencagli Gabriele , Vanneschi Marco
Published: May 2011

Several complex and time-critical applications require the existence of novel distributed, heterogeneous and dynamic platforms composed of a variety of fixed and mobile processing nodes and networks. Such platforms, that can be called Pervasive Mobile Grids, aim to merge the features of Pervasive Computing and High-performance Grid Computing onto a new emerging paradigm. In this Chapter we study a methodology for the design and the development of high-performance, adaptive and context-aware applications. We describe a programming model approach, and we compare it with other existing research works in the field of Pervasive Mobile Computing, discussing the rationales of the requirements and the features of a novel programming model for the target platforms and applications. In order to exemplify the proposed methodology we introduce our programming framework ASSISTANT, and we provide some interesting future directions in this research field.
An Agent-Based Operational Virtual Enterprise Framework enabled by RFID
Authors: Ünver H. Özgür , Sadigh Bahram Lotfi
Published: May 2011

The Virtual Enterprise (VE) is a collaboration model between multiple business partners in a value chain that aims to cope with turbulent business environments, mainly characterized by demand unpredictability, shortening product lifecycles, and intense cost pressures. The VE model is particularly viable and applicable for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) and industry parks containing multiple SMEs that have different vertical competencies. As small firms collaborate effectively under VE model, it will be only possible to emerge products by joining their diverse competencies and mitigate the effects of market turbulence by minimizing their investment. A typical VE model has four phases; opportunity capture, formation, operation, and dissolution. The goal of this chapter is to present a conceptual Virtual Enterprise framework, focusing on operation phase. The framework incorporates two key technologies Multi Agent Systems (MAS) and Radio Frequency Identification Systems (RFID) which are emerging from research to industry with a great momentum. First, state of the art for Virtual Enterprises and the two key enabling technologies are covered in detail. After presenting conceptual view of the framework, an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) view is also given to enhance technical integration with available industry standards and solutions. Finally, process views of how a virtual enterprise can operate utilizing agent based and RFID systems in order to fulfill operational requirements, are presented.
Unobtrusive Interaction with Mobile and Ubiquitous Computing Systems through Kinetic User Interfaces
Authors: Pallotta Vincenzo
Published: May 2011

Unobtrusiveness is a key factor in usability of mobile and ubiquitous computing systems. These systems are made of several ambient and mobile devices whose goal is supporting everyday life users’ activities, hopefully without interfering with them. We intend to address the topic of obtrusiveness by assessing its impact in the design of interfaces for mobile and ubiquitous computing systems. We will make the case of how unobtrusive interfaces can be designed by means of Kinetic User Interfaces: an emerging interaction paradigm where input to system is provided through coordinated motion of objects and people in the physical space.
A Multi-Loop Development Process for a Wearable Computing System in Autonomous Logistics
Authors: Piotrowski Jakub , Ruthenbeck Carmen , Harjes Florian , Scholz-Reiter Bernd
Published: May 2011

The chapter examines a multi-loop development process for a wearable computing system within a new paradigm in logistic applications. The implementation of this system will be demonstrated by an example from the field of autonomous logistics for automobile logistics. The development process is depicted from selecting and combining hardware through to the adjustment to both user and operative environment. Further, this chapter discusses critical success factors like robustness and flexibility. The objective is to present problems and challenges as well as a possible approach to cope with them.
Research-Based Insights Inform Change in IBM M-Learning Strategy
Authors: Ahmad Nabeel
Published: May 2011

Although mobile phones have become an extension of the workplace, organizations are still exploring their effectiveness for employee training and development. A 2009 joint collaborative study between Columbia University (New York, USA) and IBM of 400 IBM employees’ use of mobile phones revealed unexpected insights into how employees use mobile applications to improve job performance. The findings are reshaping IBM Learning’s mobile technologies strategy for networking, collaboration, and skills improvement. This chapter reveals the study’s results and IBM’s new direction for m-learning, highlighting IBM’s preparedness for a shift in its organizational learning model potentiated by ubiquitous access and mobility.
Modelling of Location-Aware Access Control Rules
Authors: Decker Michael
Published: May 2011

Access control in the domain of information system security refers to the process of deciding whether a particular request made by a user to perform a particular operation on a particular object under the control of the system should be allowed or denied. For example, the access control component of a file server might have to decide whether user “Alice” is allowed to perform the operation “delete” on the object “document.txt”. For traditional access control this decision is based on the evaluation of the identity of the user and attributes of the object. The novel idea of location-aware access control is also to consider the user’s current location which is determined by a location system like GPS. The main purpose of this article is to present several approaches for the modeling of location-aware access control rules. We consider generic as well as application-specific access control models that can be found in literature.
Secure Routing and Mobility in Future IP Networks
Authors: Grahn Kaj , Karlsson Jonny , Pulkkis Göran
Published: May 2011

The evolution of computer networking is moving from static wired networking towards wireless, mobile, infrastructureless, and ubiquitous networking. In next-generation computer networks, new mobility features such as, seamless roaming, vertical handover, and moving networks are introduced. Security is a major challenge in developing mobile and infrastructureless networks. Specific security threats in next-generation networks are related to the wireless access mediums, routing, and mobility features. The purpose of this chapter is to identify these threats, and discuss the state of the art of security research and standardization within the area. Proposed security architectures for mobile networking are presented. A survey of security in routing is provided with special focus on mobile ad hoc networks (MANETs). The security of currently relevant protocols for management or node and network mobility, Mobile IP (MIP), Network Mobility (NEMO), Mobile Internet Key Exchange (MOBIKE), Host Identity Protocol (HIP), Mobile Stream Control Transmission Protocol (mSCTP), Datagram Congestion Control Protocol (DCCP), and Session Initiation Protocol (SIP), is described.
Evaluation of a Mobile Platform to Support Collaborative Learning
Authors: Quental Carlos , Gouveia Luis
Published: May 2011

The MLE enables one to use the mobile phone as a constant way of learning. As a consequence it is possible to use every spare time to learn, no matter where we are, making it a very interesting tool to use in many fields by providing new opportunities to enhance learning.
Unreliable Failure Detectors for Mobile Ad-hoc Networks
Authors: Arantes Luciana , Greve Fabíola , Sens Pierre
Published: May 2011

Failure detection is an important abstraction for the development of fault-tolerant middleware, such as group communication toolkits, replication and transaction services. Unreliable failure detector (namely, FD) can be seen as an oracle which provides information about process failures. The dynamics and self-organization of Mobile Ad-hoc Networks (MANETs) introduce new restrictions and challenges for the implementation of FDs with which static traditional networks do not have to cope. It is worth mentioning that in some way, fault tolerance is more critical for MANETs than for the latter, since wireless network can present high error rates and mobile nodes are more prone to failures, physical damages or transient disconnections. The aim of this chapter is thus to discuss the impact of all these characteristics, intrinsic to MANET, in the implementation of FDs. It presents a survey of the few works about FD implementations for wireless networks, including the different possible assumptions to overcome the dynamics and lack of both global view and synchrony of MANETs.
OntoHealth
Authors: Librelotto Giovani , Augustin Iara , Gassen Jonas , Kurtz Guilherme , Freitas Leandro , Martini Ricardo , Azevedo Renato
Published: May 2011

In the last years ontologies are being used in the development of pervasive computing applications. It is habitual their use for facilitating the interoperability among context-aware applications and the entities that may enter in the context at any time. This chapter presents OntoHealth: an ontology applied to health pervasive environment and a tool to its processing. The main idea is that a hospital could be seen as this pervasive environment, where someone, through ubiquitous computing, engages a range of computational devices and systems simultaneously, in the course of ordinary activities, and may not necessarily even be aware that they are doing so. With the proposed ontology and the tool for its processing, the medical tasks can be shared by all components of this pervasive environment.
Broadcast Quality Video Contribution in Mobility
Authors: Bueno José Ramón Cerquides , Rodriguez Antonio Foncubierta
Published: May 2011

The continuous growth of the available throughput, specially in the uplink of mobile phone networks is opening the doors to new services and business opportunities without references in the past. In more concrete, new standards HSDPA/HSUPA, introduced to complement and enhance 3G networks, together with the advances in audio and specially video coding, like those adopted by the standard H.264 AVC have boosted the appearance of a new service: exploiting the mobile telephony networks for contributing broadcast quality videos. This new service is offering just now a low cost, high flexibility alternative that, in a brief period of time, will substitute the current Electronic News Gathering (ENG) Units, giving rise to what is being to be called Wireless Journalism (WENG1 or WiNG2). This chapter discusses both the technologies involved and the business opportunities offered by this sector. Once reviewed the state of the art, different solutions will be compared, some of them recently appeared as commercial solutions, like QuickLink 3.5G Live Encoder3 or AirNow!4 and others still in research and development processes.
Mobile Device Selection in Higher Education
Authors: Crisp C. Brad , Williams Michael L.
Published: May 2011

Mobile devices are rapidly becoming the most common interface for accessing network resources (Hall 2008). By 2015 the average 18-year old will spend the majority of their computing time on mobile devices (Basso 2009). These trends directly affect institutions of higher learning. Many universities are offering learning initiatives and m-services designed to distribute content and services to mobile devices. In this chapter, we report findings from an exploratory, longitudinal study at Abilene Christian University, where incoming freshmen received their choice of an Apple iPhone or iPod touch. Our findings indicate that users’ device selections were affected by their perceptions of the costs of the devices, the devices’ relative characteristics, and the social influence of parents. We also found that users’ attitude, satisfaction, and confidence about their device selection varied across devices, with iPhone users having more favorable perceptions. The chapter concludes with recommendations for mobile learning initiatives and directions for future research.
Digital Rights Management in Peer To Peer Cultural Networks
Authors: Tsolis Dimitrios , Sioutas Spyros
Published: May 2011

As a general and effective protection measure for copyright violations which occur with the use of digital technologies including peer to peer (P2P) networks, copyright owners from the cultural sector often use Digital Rights Management systems and digital watermarking techniques to encrypt copyright information with the cultural content. In other cases copyright owners restrict or even block access to the digital cultural content through the Internet and the P2P infrastructure. This chapter claims that DRM and P2P can be quite complementary. Specifically, pa P2P infrastructure is presented which allows broad digital cultural content exchange while at the same time supporting copyright protection and management through watermarking technologies for digital images.
Museums on the Web
Authors: Arends Max , Goldfarb Doron , Merkl Dieter , Weingartner Martin
Published: May 2011

This chapter surveys current best practices for museum-visitor interaction on the Web and presents impressive, publicly available examples. These examples illustrate particular interaction ideas and highlight promising research directions. The chapter provides a qualitative analysis of museum Web appearances with specific focus on interaction between museums and their visitors. The material in this chapter is grouped around the interaction paradigms of Web 1.0, Web 2.0, Web 3D, and mobile Web. The main focus of the analysis is on art museums. However, when more advanced solutions are visible at other museum types, they are mentioned as well.
An Adaptative User Interface for Genealogical Document Transcription
Authors: Mayol Enric
Published: May 2011

Lately, genealogy has become a hobby not only in the United States, UK or France but also in many other countries where it is now widespread. The main sources of information for genealogists are different kinds of genealogical documents (census, church vital records, wills, …). In fact, and specifically in Spain, several projects to digitalize heritage and genealogical documentation have developed recently, in order to improve its access and to preserve its conservation state. Such digital information is useful, but it would be even more useful to have its transcription in a searchable support like databases or web repositories. This chapter analyses the opportunities and characteristics of such transcription projects and describes a transcription user interface tool. This proposal allows for easy, intuitive and fast design of a user interface to transcript genealogical documentation, in agreement with the contents of each different kind of genealogical documents. Given an XML Schema (XSD) describing a genealogical document structure and contents, this tool allows the user to adapt and personalize a user interface to transcribe the document contents, while obtaining an XML file to be stored in some database management system or to be shared among genealogists. At any moment during the transcription process, user interface may be adapted to the user requirements and to the document characteristics, so, this adaption is dynamic, intuitive and user friendly.
e-Infrastructures for Cultural Heritage Applications
Authors: Andronico Giuseppe , Calanducci Antonio , De Filippo Alessandro , De Gregorio Giuseppe , Foti Gaetano , La Rocca Giuseppe , Pelfer Giuliano , Portuese Ferdinando , Saso Monica , Tanlongo Federica , Vicinanza Domenico , Barbera Roberto , D’Agostino Graziana , De Mattia Francesco , Falzone Alberto , La Ganga Vasta Giulia , Parisi Salvatore Simone , Pelfer Pier Giovanni , Ruggieri Federico , Scifo Salvatore , Valente Enzo
Published: May 2011

E-Infrastructures, made of high-speed networks and geographically distributed multi-domain computing and storage resources, are nowadays supporting many virtual research communities from various scientific disciplines all over the world, allowing their applications to run at a scale of complexity which allows unprecedented studies of very important multi/inter-disciplinary problems. In this chapter the authors show how such platforms can also be beneficial for arts, humanities and cultural heritage at large. Some exemplary hardware infrastructures, middleware services, and software applications will be shown, in order to provide the readers with updated information on the state of the art approaches.
A Strategy Framework for Digital Heritage
Authors: Wu Steven W.P.
Published: May 2011

As digital heritage covers a very broad spectrum of human knowledge and expression, this paper focuses primarily on the cultural heritage space. A three-box, three-layer strategy framework is proposed for managing innovation in digital heritage. The concept for this framework is derived from the Govindarajan Three-Box strategy framework. The three layers identify the major sets of challenges that a digital heritage ecosystem has to address. These are challenges directly relevant to a large museum, challenges in connecting with the broader ecosystem, and synergies with other ecosystems. Each layer is further divided into five components – technology, infrastructure, capabilities, content, services - for a clearer perception of the key drivers of innovation. A strategy framework for digital heritage should necessarily be open and adaptive yet cognizant of the drivers of innovation. These drivers ultimately determine the type of content and services that may be delivered to visitors and users. In the absence of a national digital heritage strategy, a surrogate framework may be used. A detailed Singapore case study of a surrogate framework, iGOV2010, is included for reference and learning.
Finding Liberation and Social Equality in Transformative Online Education
Authors: Kurubacak Gulsun , Yuzer T. Volkan
Published: May 2011

To find liberation and social equality in transformative online education, the leaders in distance education should effectively focus on a dynamic critical design approach and bring the radical changes in the virtual world. Fostering the courtesy, confidentially and human dignity of this decisive design approach in distance education should be an active process to obtain, evaluate and produce knowledge. Therefore, the strategies and principles of transformative online education should have a perspective on such serious concerns on liberation and social equality as whether the change process starts with professors, administrators, learners, education communities and professional reformers at local, state, national and international levels. The authors hope that the importance of considering a wide range of situations in implementing transformative online education and matching innovation with the realities of liberation and social equality deal with the rights of learners and professors. Not only should professors, therefore, help their learners but also themselves become active participants in distance education. Entire learning milieu should be interactive and collaborative help learners to work on complex projects, synthesize knowledge to build their own understandings, learn skills and concepts, and use them to solve real world problems. In this liberal and socially equal milieu, professors and learners should adopt innovative communication strategies for transformative online education; because distance education is going through a critical planning and management revolution process as well as concentrating on acquisition of novel intellectual models and egalitarian strategies.
Building Knowledge without Borders
Authors: Szecsy Elsie M.
Published: May 2011

The purpose of this chapter is to report on the use of information and communication technology (ICT) as a “leveling device” between colleagues dispersed across the United States and México, who shared similar education research interests but came from different research traditions. The author reports on the use of various ICT tools in a process that began in 2006 with a small planning group distributed across México and the United States; grew to include additional participants who met face-to-face in Monterrey, México, in 2007; and continued afterward into 2008 through ICT-mediated mechanisms that were structured to maintain purposeful linkages among colleagues dispersed across two countries. Through this slow, deliberate process, the participants increased their capacity for achieving a broader focus on a shared problem as a research community by learning each other’s perspectives. The strategic use of ICT to support collaboration across borders—in real time and asynchronously—assisted in building a binational education research community.
Emphasizing Diversity through 3D Multi-User Virtual Worlds
Authors: Klinger Mary Beth , Coffman Teresa L.
Published: May 2011

Integrating three dimensional multi-user virtual worlds into the online classroom is an effective way to enhance instruction and provide real world application to course content. This chapter explores virtual worlds and their ability to promote meaningful interaction, collaboration, and skill based learning. The focus for encouraging new technologies into the teaching and learning environment is to foster creativity and innovation in the 21st century learner so that inventive thinkers, collaborative problem solvers, and transformative leaders can emerge from our global educational system. Concerns regarding diversity, social equality, and accessibility to the technology tools are addressed with emphasis on the need to provide open systems so that our knowledge based global economy can thrive and all students can emerge as competent global citizens.
Caring in the Zone
Authors: Cheney Amelia W. , Nelsen Peter
Published: May 2011

A focus on interpersonal relationships and the creation of caring, democratic learning experiences may cause some to reject virtual learning environments because of a belief that physical proximity is necessary for the building of substantial relationships. Despite this concern, a carefully crafted 3D immersive learning environment can provide similar interpersonal experiences, and can foster the creation of caring relationships in ways that are often difficult in face-to-face settings. Based on more than nine years of work in Appalachian State University’s Appalachian Educational Technology (AET) Zone, this chapter creates a case based on Noddings’ framework for the ethic of care, and argues that virtual learning environments can meet and exceed these conditions.