bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Derivation of Euler's Equation from Equilibrium of Applied and Inertia Moments
Authors: Nandi A. , Neogy S.
Published: February 2013

The present work proposes a simple technique for the derivation of Euler's equation for a rigid body rotating about a fixed point, which is often overlooked in standard texts. This work considers the moment due to inertia forces as an external moment and uses static equilibrium equations (D'Alembert's principle) for obtaining Euler's equation. The present method is adopted as a part of a graduate course on flight mechanics, where a short introduction to the mechanics of rigid bodies is required by a cross-section of students from diverse backgrounds.
Mathcad Applications for Generalized One-Dimensional Compressible Flow
Authors: Hodge B. K.
Published: February 2013

The use of Mathcad as the computational system for generalized one-dimensional compressible flow is examined. Traditional approaches to the topic are discussed, and details of Mathcad formulations are delineated. Examples are presented that illustrate the details of the Mathcad procedures for a variety of one-dimensional compressible flow applications. The impact on the students' mastery of generalized one-dimensional compressible flow is assessed. The use of Mathcad in this topic was considered to be a success, since (anecdotally) student mastery was enhanced over the previously used structured code development/modification approach.
Relationships between the Torsions of Anisotropic Circular and of Isotropic Elliptical Elastic Cylinders
Authors: Ecsedi István
Published: February 2013

Relationships between the solutions to the Saint-Venant torsion of an anisotropic circular cylinder and of an isotropic elliptical cylinder are proven. It is shown that if the geometrical data describing an isotropic elliptical cylinder are certain functions of the shear rigidities of an anisotropic circular cylinder, then the torsional functions and torsional rigidities of the considered cross-sections are the same. The material of both cylinders is homogeneous. The class of anisotropy taken into account has at least one plane of elastic symmetry normal to the axis of the circular cylinder.
Inherent Numerical Discretization Dilemma Analysis of Euler Equations
Authors: Lu Ming-Fang , Lee Hsing-Juin , Chih Yu-Hsi
Published: February 2013

Euler equations, derived in 1755, are among the most important equations for general fluid analysis. Although this fundamental governing set of equations looks simple at first glance for incompressible, inviscid fluid flow, it does lead to a crucial numerical discretization dilemma related to existence, uniqueness, stability and oscillation problems. Take gradual pipe expansion flow, for instance: in the process of deriving Euler equations, the seemingly innocent artificial equalization of crosswise and forward-biased streamwise pressure will give serious discretization error compared with use of the Bernoulli equation. Here, the wall pressures, P W = P + d P, disappear from the Euler equations but later bring about troublesome problems, and even violate the fundamental energy principle. Various numerical measures have been devised to overcome such problems, such as artificial viscosity and streamline upwinding, but these are awkward and have high risk of flow field contamination in an attempt to somehow manipulate some energy dissipation when dealing with incompressible fluid flow. In this research, for the sake of finding the real culprit, we re-scrutinize the original derivation of Euler equations and compare the discretized Euler equation with a factorized Bernoulli equation, in order to find the actual pathology that leads to these serious numerical discretization dilemmas with the Euler equations.
Using Kolb's Learning Cycle to Enhance the Teaching and Learning of Mechanics of Materials
Authors: Muscat Martin , Mollicone Pierluigi
Published: February 2013

This paper considers the learning and assessment process of a mechanical engineering undergraduate student and applies it to designing a set of laboratory activities in the field of mechanics of materials. An informal survey was carried out among third-year mechanical engineering students on a four-year bachelor course at the University of Malta in order to find out about their preferred learning style. Thirty-one students were surveyed, which represented 12.5% of students following the BEng (Hons) course in mechanical engineering. The survey indicated that 59.7% of engineering students prefer learning through ‘feeling or concrete experience’, 9.7% prefer learning through ‘watching or reflective observation’, 12.9% prefer learning through ‘thinking or abstract conceptualisation’ and 17.7% prefer learning through ‘doing or active experimentation’. The laboratory activities were designed in such a way as to entice students to use hands-on learning to complement the theory explained during lectures. The four-stage Kolb learning cycle was used as a model on which to design the set of laboratory activities. An example of a topic in mechanics of materials is used in this study to assess the students' response in terms of Kolb's proposal for effective learning. The topic selected (combined bending and torsion) is part of the mechanical engineering degree curriculum.
A Design-Oriented Experimental Module for Teaching Micro- and Nanotechnologies to Mechanical Engineering Students
Authors: Xue Wei
Published: February 2013

Advances in miniaturization science have provided new opportunities in education at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. In order to effectively incorporate micro- and nanotechnologies into the existing mechanical engineering curriculum, the author developed a design-oriented experimental module for two laboratory-intensive courses. Students enrolled on these courses are involved in all the stages of the laboratory projects: design, fabrication, and measurement. The experimental module emphasizes hands-on experience and is seamlessly integrated into the course structures. The students can use what they learn from the classes in the laboratory activities, which include two-dimensional photomask layout design, photolithography, isotropic and anisotropic wet etching, bulk micromachining, and thin-film and structure characterization with various measurement tools. Each laboratory activity is designed to integrate theories from textbooks with actual fabrication and characterization processes. The students gain a better understanding of the course topics by creating their own designs that meet the requirements and by fabricating their own structures that show satisfactory results. According to student surveys the experimental module is effective in teaching micro- and nanotechnologies in the mechanical engineering program. With some modification, this module can be easily extended to courses in other disciplines.
Approach for Teaching Polytropic Processes Based on the Energy Transfer Ratio
Authors: Christians Joseph
Published: February 2013

The polytropic process equation, Pv n = C, is widely taught in mechanical engineering curricula throughout the world as an important concept in thermodynamics. Unfortunately, it is too often presented as a statement of fact, providing the student with little or no understanding of its fundamental basis. Herein the principal underpinnings of this foundational equation are elucidated by the introduction of a new term, called the energy transfer ratio ( K). A teaching approach centered around the energy transfer ratio can give the student new insights into polytropic processes. Reversible polytropic processes in closed and open systems are examined, including open systems where the Mach number is significant. The discussion is then expanded to include irreversible processes. It is hoped that the reader will find this material to be a useful reference in presenting polytropic processes to students.
Educational Use of a Small-Scale Cherrypicker
Authors: Maleki Ehsan , Pridgen Brice , Singhose William , Glauser Urs , Seering Warren
Published: February 2013

Cherrypickers are a useful class of machines that can lift people to great heights. Unfortunately, the operator bucket oscillates and the entire machine can tip over in catastrophic accidents. Understanding the dynamics and stability of these machines is crucial for efficient and safe operation. To this end, a small-scale cherrypicker was constructed for experimental dynamic analysis and educational use. The dynamic behavior of the cherrypicker, as well as the improved system response using vibration-control techniques are presented. The cherrypicker was used during fall 2010 as an experimental apparatus in an advanced graduate controls course taught simultaneously at the Georgia Institute of Technology and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Its educational use in this multi-institutional course is discussed.
Irish Young People's Narratives: The Existence of Gender Differentiated Cultures?
Authors: O'Connor Pat
Published: February 2013

There is frequently an assumption that fixed dualisms are no longer relevant (Thorne 1993) so that socially constructed and differentially valued gendered cultures no longer exist. Gender, however, has not been consistently referred to as an outdated or zombie category (Beck and Beck-Gernsheim 2002), while a variety of evidence suggests that male priorities, choices and lifestyles are differentially valued (UN 1995; O'Connor 2000). Drawing on a national one in ten random sample of 4,100 texts written by Irish young people, typically aged 10–12 and 14–17 years, in response to an invitation to describe ‘themselves and the Ireland they inhabit’, this article suggests that aspects of their narratives (relating to relationships and lifestyles) reflect the existence of gender differentiated cultures, although these ‘two cultures’ are much less apparent in their narratives about time, space and consumption. Finally, the paper touches on the implications of these trends for understanding contemporary Irish society.
Revolution in the Air: Images of Winning in the Irish Anti-Capitalist Movement
Authors: Cox Laurence , Curry Liz
Published: February 2013

This article explores strategic conceptions within the alter-globalisation movement in Ireland. Based on action research carried out within the left-libertarian (‘Grassroots’) wing of the movement, it notes imbalances in participation in a very intensive form of political activity, and asks how activists understand winning. It finds substantial congruence between organisational practice and long-term goals, noting social justice and participatory democracy along with feminist, environmental and anti-war concerns as central. Using Wallerstein's proposed transition strategy for anti-systemic movements, it argues that Irish alter-globalisation activists are realistic about popular support and state power, and concerned to link short-term work around basic needs with the construction of alternative institutions and long-term struggles for a different social order.
Doing Transnational Feminism, Transforming Human Rights: The Emancipatory Possibilities Revisited
Authors: Reilly Niamh
Published: February 2013

This article contributes to cross-disciplinary engagement with the idea of transnationality through a discussion of transnational feminisms. In particular, it reviews and responds to some of the more critical readings of the women's human rights paradigm and its role in underpinning, or not, emancipatory transnational feminisms in a context of increasingly fragmenting globalisation. The author considers two broad categories of critical readings of transnational women's human rights: anti-universalist and praxis-oriented. This includes discussions of recent feminist articulations of the ‘cultural legitimacy thesis’ and ‘vernacularisation’ and of obstacles to contesting the oppressions of neo-liberal globalisation through human rights feminisms. Ultimately, the author argues that the emancipatory possibilities of human rights-oriented transnational feminisms reside in dialogic, solidarity-building feminist praxis tied to transnational processes of counter-hegemonic (re)interpretation and (re)claiming of human rights from previously excluded positions.
Connectedness in the Lives of Older People in Ireland: A Study of the Communal Participation of Older People in Two Geographic Localities
Authors: Gallagher Carmel
Published: February 2013

This paper presents an analysis of the connectedness of older people in two sample areas, one urban and one rural, in Ireland. The paper is based on a study of the communal participation of older people in two geographic localities; Rathmore, a suburban area of Dublin, and Rathbeg, a rural area in County Donegal, conducted between 2000 and 2005. A multi-stage study that used both qualitative and quantitative methods examined significant communal in teractions of older people across a range of arenas, including leisure interests, involvement in clubs, religious practices, voluntary work, relationships with kin, friends and neighbours, helping activities, use of social services and informal interactions in neighbourhoods and other communal settings. The paper describes their experiences of connectedness, explains how older people co-create and sustain communal ties and explores the significance of social practices and social groupings involved. The study demonstrated that among a diverse group of older adults engagement with others outside one's immediate family was a significant source of satisfaction and meaning in life. It provided evidence that place-based friendships are important contexts for the development of collective solidarities and transformative relationships. The paper underlines the contribution of older people to the lives of others, and argues that community should be understood as involving both place and type of relationship instead of a symbolic attachment to identities. The policy implications of the findings are also briefly considered.
Illiteracy in Greece: Presenting and Confronting the Problem
Authors: Sipitanou Athina A.
Published: February 2013

The term illiteracy refers to a multilateral and constantly evolving issue that continues to take on alarming dimensions in the present day. During each modern historical period the factors responsible for its emergence and maintenance have been diverse and have had no national peculiarities. Illiteracy today presents itself as a particularly persistent problem in Greece, which has consistently concerned international organisations during the last five decades. The present study initially adopts a historical perspective, since it observes, records and diachronically interprets the problem of illiteracy in Greece, while also incorporating a comparative dimension, attempting to approach the issue as it has presented during various historical periods in Greece by making brief examinations of other societies. Finally, the study makes a reference to certain measures taken both through the Greek educational system and by other adult education organisations to confront this problem.
How Often do Pre-School Teachers in Greece Use Nt and ICT in Their Classrooms? A Study of Continuing Education Needs
Authors: Pange Jenny
Published: February 2013

During the last five years one of the main goals of Educational Departments in Greece has been to prepare teachers who, amongst other tasks, must be able to apply New Technologies to their everyday teaching and use Information and Communication Technologies to retrieve information about many classroom activities. This study refers to the courses taught on New Technologies and Information and Communication Technologies, at a postgraduate level, in a continuing education programme, at the Department of Pre-school Education at the University of Ioannina, Greece. It also discusses the use of New Technologies by in-service pre-school teachers as well as their expectations of the application of New Technologies to kindergartens. Their suggestions for better training in the use of New Technologies during their undergraduate studies, and the problems of applying them in the classroom, are also presented.
Designing Media and ICT Strategies for Non-Formal Education in Eritrea
Authors: Murthy C.S.H.N.
Published: February 2013

Designing media and ICT strategies for a newly formed country like Eritrea, which has endured 30 years of armed struggle, leading to massive destruction followed by serial drought, is fraught with numerous constraints: limitation of human resources (e.g. qualified personnel), infrastructure and financial constraints. At the same time, though it may seem paradoxical, there is an inescapable urgency to generate media and ICT strategies, limitations notwithstanding, to turn out larger groups of people capable of leading the nation from illiteracy and poverty to literacy and greener pastures of a developed economy. A three-pronged effort is directed to cover all target groups and key players – one each towards categorised target groups and the other towards the training of radio and television personnel. It has to be followed by sensitising the government, another major key player in the whole process, to lay down required media education policy and to see to its sustainability. Conceived as the first-ever original and creative document, subject to further refinements as experience of its implementation pours in, what follows is the presentation of major principles that went into development of media education, facilitating direct teaching and enrichment, and quicker and low cost curricular reforms, in order to achieve rapid transformation and poverty reduction in Eritrea.
‘Validation’: Mobilisation and Disciplination
Authors: Andersson Per
Published: February 2013

This article presents an empirical example of what a process of mobilisation and disciplination could mean in practice. The example is taken from a ‘validation’ initiative (recognition of prior learning) among a small group of unemployed people in Sweden. An ethnographic approach means that data were collected, mainly through observations and interviews, to provide a detailed description of the process studied. The analysis applies an eclectic perspective, inspired by the Foucauldian concept of genealogy, where the idea of validation is traced in ethnography, the discursive practice of validation. The results show, among other things, how mobilising and disciplining are intertwined: i.e., mobilisation is a prerequisite of disciplination and vice versa. Furthermore, mobilising and disciplining can be seen as a process of sorting people. There was a high dropout rate in the small group, and the question of how the system could be changed to better meet the needs of these persons is asked.
Continuing Education of Nurses in Lebanon: Evaluation and Unmet Needs
Authors: Salameh Pascale R. , Barbour Bernadette
Published: February 2013

In the nursing profession it is necessary for a nurse to engage in continuing education to keep up to date. In Lebanon efforts to establish such continuing education are being made. However, a cross-sectional study conducted on a representative sample of 254 nurses found that 60 per cent attend an insufficient number of continuing education sessions per year. Attendees are mainly older, married senior nurses with long professional experience; they evaluated the aspects of these sessions positively, but denied that they made any constructive difference to the evolution of their careers. It is clear that the objectives of continuing education need to be clarified for nurses; to this end, prospects for promotion would be welcome to further motivate attendees.
Promoting an Equality Agenda in Adult Literacy Practice Using Non-Text/Creative Methodologies
Authors: Mark Rob
Published: February 2013

This paper examines the relationship between literacy, equality and creativity and the relevance for adult literacy practices. It looks in particular at how literacy tutors can use creative non-text methods to promote an understanding of equality in learners' lives. Through an examination of the findings from the Literacy and Equality in Irish Society (LEIS) Project (2004–2006), the paper shows how individuals from different fields of research and practice came together to create new insights into how literacy practices might be enacted in different learning contexts. To support this work, the project researched, designed and developed a resource guide (Lamb et al, 2006), which provides support for literacy tutors to explore equality issues using creative non-text methods of learning.

Findings show that with appropriate support, tutors and learners can engage in a collaborative research process that has the potential to influence the ongoing development of literacy learning in new and creative ways. They also show that literacy is more than a set of basic skills to be acquired and that literacy, equality and creativity can be understood through the everyday lives and social practices of learners.
The Bologna Process and Lifelong Learning: Complexity and Flexibility as Watchwords for Change
Authors: Bennett Shirley , Ryley Peter
Published: February 2013

Current developments arising from the Bologna Process and impacting throughout European higher education trace their origins to the lifelong learning and widening participation agendas. They aim to facilitate new patterns and pathways of study and provide transparency and guidance for students. However, practical implementation of the changes in ways which retain sensitivity to the particular needs of lifelong learners is far from simple. As those at the chalkface of programme design and delivery grapple with the more complex questions arising from the transformations in policy and practice, our work suggests that a key watchword for change-implementation may be ‘complexity for flexibility’. We outline the general principles explored and practical steps undertaken with regard to one established adult learning programme. We demonstrate that through an approach which embraces complexity and flexibility, it has been possible to develop strategies for serious engagement with the drivers behind the current change, the range and variety of learning skills in a typical adult learning group, and the rational resistance to change which may be experienced by those at the forefront of implementation.
University Continuing Education in New Zealand
Authors: Geertshuis Susan
Published: February 2013

In New Zealand there are four university-based centres for continuing education which provide non-credit short courses. This paper presents data from a survey which was conducted with the intention of building understanding of the cohort of learners who attend short non-credit courses, to better understand their views and values and to determine whether there was a readiness or need to follow the trends apparent in overseas departments of continuing education. Policy and funding structures in New Zealand have favoured traditional delivery methods and non-credit learning. The survey of learners indicated a readiness for technology-enabled learning and interest in attaining recognition for learning. The study provides a valuable insight into an often invisible cohort of university learners and exposes important contrasts between common perceptions of adult ‘leisure’ learners and our survey results.
Conspirators in a Neo-Liberal Agenda? Adult Educators in Second-Chance Private Training Establishments
Authors: Walker Judith
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the findings of a qualitative study that explored the impact of neo-liberal policy and ideology on educators and directors working in second-chance Private Training Establishments (PTEs) which were created at the height of the neo-liberal reforms in New Zealand. By examining the experiences of 14 educators and directors in four PTEs, this research found that although those working in second-chance PTEs are not impervious to neo-liberal discourse and policy, they do not automatically reflect a rightist agenda. While assessment, funding, outcomes, and monitoring have encouraged tutors and directors to adopt a more behaviourist approach in the classroom and in their jobs, the findings also indicate that adult educators critically examine and constantly negotiate their practice.
Adult Learning Opportunities in Nepal
Authors: Regmi Krishna , Regmi Sharada
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the initial findings from a study of education system in Nepal. This paper examines the adult learning opportunities within the educational and cultural contexts by reviewing available literature relevant to Nepal.

Findings show that there are wider opportunities for adult learning than those considered from education and policy research perspectives, and these include autonomous and self-directed learning as well as learning from life experiences. Study also shows that learning among adults is more than a set of basic skills to be acquired and that literacy, equality and creativity can be understood through the everyday lives and sociocultural practices of learners. The paper concludes by considering the implications of these findings on teaching-learning methodologies suitable for adult education initiatives and for professional practice in Nepal.
Measuring the Attitudes of Adult Learners: A First Application of RAACES in Greece
Authors: Stamouli Lamprini , Valkanos Efthymios , Economou Andreas
Published: February 2013

This article made use of the model ‘Revised adult attitudes toward continuing education scale’ (RAACES) to investigate the attitudes of adult learners in Vocational Training Centers (VTC/KEK) in Greece. The work aims to confirm the scale-measuring attitudes of adults resulting from the adoption of the RAACES model. Based on the results of the investigation in which we conducted 100 interviews with adults trained in the use of VTC (KEK), with a structured questionnaire of closed questions, the results of factorial analysis (factor analysis) suggest the existence of three dimensions read through the nine items of the RAACES model. Finally, the empirical results are discussed and suggestions for practical implementation are proposed.
Paying for Community Education
Authors: Geertshuis Susan
Published: February 2013

Within New Zealand, Adult and Community Education providers are facing radical reductions in government support. Providers are reacting in different ways with many being forced to withdraw from offering non-credit education at affordable rates. This paper explores the likely consequences, in terms of changes in learner profile, of efforts to maintain the viability of programs through increased fees. The research explores strategies for maintaining student numbers and access despite substantial fee increases. The work is based on a survey of over 550 university community education learners and uses approaches derived from consumer decision-making research. The results suggest that fee increases will contribute to a shift towards community education being an activity limited to the better off but that measures are available that will go some way to safeguard learner numbers and access.
Social Inclusion: Universities and Regional Development
Authors: Wilson Bruce
Published: February 2013

At a time when the OECD (2007) is advocating more local engagement for higher education institutions, this study looks at a number of community initiatives in Australia where local universities have played a key role. All were studied as part of the PASCAL Universities and Regional Engagement (PURE) project, which involves a total of 19 regions worldwide. Drawing on case studies and some of the literature related to the regional engagement of the tertiary sector, this article identifies ways in which it could be made more effective. However, universities, as other bodies, are increasingly part of a global sector in which reputation and funding are becoming ever more competitive. Within a region, there is rarely an overall strategic vision for encouraging cooperative projects. The challenge is to address find better ways of reconciling the potential contribution which can be made through regional collaboration with the need to maintain institutional financial viability and academic quality in a global market.
Drama in Education and Self-Directed Learning for Adults
Authors: Karavoltsou Athina A. , O'Sullivan Carmel
Published: February 2013

Drama in Education (DIE), as an artistic and educational experience, is sufficiently evidenced in the literature as a dialogical, liberating practice of education. This article discusses a practitioner research project in a second chance adult education school in Greece, where the use of a DIE teaching and learning approach was explored in an environmental adult education module. Self-directed learning in this study referred to learner-control and was used to uncover how power relations are constructed through the micro-politics of the classroom. The primary aim of the study was to establish whether the use of a DIE approach could enhance learners' motivation to participate in classroom choices and decisions, and thus take greater control and responsibility for their own learning process. The results indicate that resistance occurred when the teacher delegated greater responsibility than the learners were equipped to handle. The article concludes by advocating an educational encounter of shared authority and vulnerability between teacher and learners when working in and through the arts.
Creativity and Learning
Authors: Knox Alan
Published: February 2013

This article explores personal, organisational and societal perspectives on creativity, arts, and adult education. Attention to creativity in the United States has increased during the past century. Fifty years ago, scholars and practitioners interested in the arts and sciences were focused on extraordinary creative achievements. Since then the scope of such interest has expanded from innovative and useful outcomes such as paintings and inventions, to include characteristics of very creative people, their ways of working, and various influences. The scope has also broadened from a few outstanding examples to increasingly include all people and their lifelong learning in a society in which change and learning have become widespread. This article demonstrates how creative adult education can help enhance the creativity of all people in all aspects of their life. I combine my parallel experience in art and adult education to explore the beneficiaries of art; characteristics of artists; venues where creative activity takes place; and how appreciation is shown for creative endeavours. I also use artistic metaphors and combine a review of trends regarding major writings about creativity, with personal reflections about future directions to strengthen attention to creativity in adult education.
Critical Reflection and Readiness for University in Non-Traditional Students: Implications for Informal Educators
Authors: Bamber John
Published: February 2013

Within the context of increasing pressures to widen participation, this article is based on small-scale qualitative research into the pre-course experiences of some non-traditional students undertaking a BA in Community Education. The central idea is that developing the capacity for critical reflection (Brookfield, 2000), through participation in informal learning activities, is significant in enabling the ‘readiness’ of non-traditional students for university. If this is the case, it follows that there are pedagogical implications for the work of informal educators in assisting adult learners to develop this capacity. In some ways the article can be read as a response to Preece et al's (1998, p 7) call for further research into ‘how curriculum content and teaching and learning styles’ can sustain and widen participation. The article concludes by suggesting that the development of this capacity could form a crucial bridge between informal modes of learning and the learning required in HE.
Inquiring into Lifelong Learning
Authors: Osborne Mike , Edward Richard
Published: February 2013

The Enterprise and Lifelong Learning Committee of the Scottish Parliament has conducted an inquiry into lifelong learning and produced both an interim and final report (Scottish Parliament, 2002a, b). The inquiry had a number of strands to it, including a wide-ranging consultation on a number of questions. In this article, the findings of the inquiry itself are not discussed – rather the authors discuss the feasibility of, and constraints intrinsic to, inquiring into lifelong learning. The authors suggest that the evidence base for policy is relatively under-developed and that the research that does exist points to the multi-faceted complexity of lifelong learning as both a means and end of policy. Drawing policy conclusions from the current research evidence base may therefore be premature. This discussion is situated within some of the wider debates about evidence-informed policy and practice.
Learning Plans as Support for the Development of Learner Identity: A Case Study in Rural Western Canada
Authors: Crichton Susan , Kinsel Ellen
Published: February 2013

The development of a complex, multi-faceted sense of self can increase student achievement and self-confidence. Individualised learning plans link the personal and social identities of students with the academic curriculum, mapping a pathway to activities appropriate to needs and goals and the development of an increasingly complex sense of self.
The Driving Forces of the Recent Changes in European University Continuing Education
Authors: Thomas Edward
Published: February 2013

There have been considerable increases in the provision of university continuing education (UCE) in many European countries over the past decade and more. This paper seeks to identify the major driving forces for these increases and to recognise some of the resulting consequences.
Learning to Live Together: Community Relations Education in Northern Ireland
Authors: Nolan Paul
Published: February 2013

The rise of ethnic tensions has rendered the idea of pluralist societies more problematic than ever before. This article looks at the role played by adult education in helping to build peace in Northern Ireland, a society which is moving towards the stabilisation of its intercommunal conflict. A typology of peace education is put forward, outlining the various strategies adopted by those involved in adult learning or community relations work. Some general observations are added about the role of gender. Questions are then raised about how the impact of peace education progammes can be measured or assessed, and about the methodological problems facing all those attempting to draw conclusions about the role of education in conflict societies.
High‐Throughput Gene Silencing and mRNA Expression Analysis in Hepatocyte Sandwich Cultures
Authors: Hollingshead Brett D. , Gauthier Lauren M. , Burdick Andrew D.
Published: February 2013

Primary hepatocyte sandwich cultures are useful for a variety of research applications where maintenance of metabolic competency is essential. To ensure an optimal hepatocellular phenotype, cells are seeded on collagen‐coated dishes and embedded with an overlay of Matrigel. This culturing condition makes gene silencing by traditional reagent‐mediated transfection methods challenging. Here, an siRNA delivery method in primary mouse hepatocytes that allows cells to be cultured with Matrigel overlay is described. This method delivers >80% mRNA silencing with minimal alterations in cell viability. A 96‐well format allows for high‐throughput RNA processing and downstream quantitative PCR applications and reduces time and resources. This format is particularly useful when experiments requiring many different sampling conditions (such as pharmacologic dose‐response curves) are required. Curr. Protoc. Toxicol. 55:14.11.1‐14.11.11. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Evaluation of Proliferation of Neural Stem Cells In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Morte Maria Inês , Carreira Bruno P. , Machado Vanessa , Carmo Anália , Nunes‐Correia Isabel , Carvalho Caetana M. , Araújo Inês M.
Published: February 2013

This unit describes two basic protocols for the detection of the proliferation of neural stem cells (NSC). The first one addresses cell proliferation in cultures, starting with primary cell cultures isolated from the mouse subventricular zone (SVZ), in which SVZ‐derived NSC are kept in culture as neurospheres. By using this culture system, we are able to study different stages of adult neurogenesis, such as proliferation, differentiation, migration, and survival. Thus, in the first basic protocol, we describe two different techniques to evaluate cell proliferation based on EdU incorporation: (a) immunocytochemistry and (b) flow cytometry. EdU, a new thymidine analog, which is detected by a reproducible and sensitive method based on click chemistry, does not require DNA denaturation, as is the case with BrdU. Thus, co‐labeling of EdU with other specific antibodies of extracellular or intracellular targets, as well as other DNA dyes, is possible. In the second basic protocol, we describe an in vivo assay to evaluate proliferation of NSC in the dentate gyrus of hippocampus of adult mice, by both BrdU and EdU detection. With this approach, it is also possible to study different stages of adult neurogenesis, by co‐labeling thymidine analogs with other specific markers, such as doublecortin (DCX) or neuronal nuclei protein (NeuN). Curr. Protoc. Stem Cell Biol. 24:2D.14.1‐2D.14.24. © 2013 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Bifurcation stenting after failed angioplasty of infrapopliteal arteries in critical limb ischemia: Techniques and short‐term follow‐up
Authors: Werner Martin , Scheinert Susanne , Bausback Yvonne , Bräunlich Sven , Ulrich Matthias , Piorkowski Michael , Scheinert Dierk , Schmidt Andrej
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To report on the efficacy of drug eluting stents (DES) in below the knee lesions involving arterial bifurcations after failed angioplasty.

Background

DES have become a mainstay in the treatment of below the knee lesions. However, little is known about the efficacy of DES in infapopliteal lesions involving the arterial bifurcations. This is the first report on the endovascular treatment of below‐the knee bifurcations.

Methods

11 patients with critical lower limb ischemia and complex infrapopliteal atherosclerotic disease underwent provisional DES placement in infrapopliteal bifurcation lesions. Clinical and angiographic follow–up data were prospectively collected in all patients.

Results

Technical success was achieved in all cases. After 6 months, the two vessel primary patency (2VPP) rate was 54.5% and the 1VPP rate was 81.8%. Between baseline and the follow‐up, mean ankle‐brachial index increased from 0.31 ± 0.10 to 0.68 ± 0.16, and mean Rutherford–Becker class decreased from 4.73 ± 0.20 to 3.00 ± 1.41 (P < 0.001 for both comparisons).

Conclusions

Bifurcation stenting techniques, that are described for the coronary arteries can be also performed in the infrapopliteal arteries. However, early reocclusion was frequent in this case series, when stenting was performed in a bail‐out setting. If balloon angioplasty alone leads to no sufficient results in bifurcation lesions, a single stent strategy could also be considered. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter right ventricular outflow tract stent implantation in a child with pentalogy of cantrell, double outlet right ventricle, and severe pulmonary stenosis
Authors: McMahon Colin J. , Walsh Kevin P.
Published: February 2013

We described a 5‐week‐old boy with dextrocardia, double outlet right ventricle, and severe pulmonary stenosis with pentalogy of Cantrell. There was a defect within the sternum, diaphragm, and a prominent left ventricular diverticulum. Hypercyanotic spells developed with desaturation to 50%. Two Vision coronary stents were implanted in the right ventricular outflow tract with a significant improvement in oxygen saturation to 85%. This represents the first report of transcatheter pulmonary stent implantation as a form of palliation in a child with pentalogy of Cantrell. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful treatment of central venous catheter induced superior vena cava syndrome with ultrasound accelerated catheter‐directed thrombolysis
Authors: Dumantepe Mert , Tarhan Arif , Ozler Azmi
Published: February 2013

Superior vena cava (SVC) syndrome results from obstruction of flow through the vessel either by external compression or thrombosis. External compression by intrathoracic neoplasms is the most common etiology, especially lung cancer and lymphoma. Thrombosis is becoming increasingly common due to the use of indwelling catheters and implantable central venous access devices. Most patients are unresponsive to anticoagulation alone which appears to be effective only in the mildest cases. However, recent advances in catheter‐based interventions have led to the development of a variety of minimally invasive endovascular strategies to remove venous thrombus and accepted as an important first‐line treatment given its high overall success rate and low morbidity as compared with medical and surgical treatments. Ultrasound accelerated catheter‐directed thrombolysis (UACDT) has been developed to rapidly and completely resolve the existing thrombus. This technique integrates high frequency, low intensity ultrasound (US) with standard CDT in order to accelerate clot dissolution, reducing treatment time and the incidence of thrombolysis‐related complications. An US wave enhances drug permeation through thrombus by disaggregating the fibrin matrix, exposing additional plasminogen receptor sites to the thrombolytic agent. The US energy affects thrombus in the entire venous segment, increasing the probability of complete thrombus clearing. We report the case of a 56‐year‐old man who presented with a 5 days history of SVC syndrome symptoms who had been receiving chemotherapy for colon cancer through a right subclavian vein port catheter. The patient successfully treated with UACDT with EkoSonic® Mach4e Endovascular device with an overnight infusion. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Transcatheter double stent implantation for treatment of middle aortic coarctation syndrome
Authors: McMahon Colin J. , Lambert Imelda , Walsh Kevin P.
Published: February 2013

A 13‐year‐old boy presented with severe systemic hypertension. His upper limb blood pressure measured 190/100 mm Hg and lower limb blood pressure measured 98/64 mm Hg. The brachial pulses were bounding and femoral pulses were not palpable. Echocardiography and magnetic resonance angiography confirmed middle aortic syndrome. There was severe diffuse thoraco‐abdominal coarctation with continuous Doppler run‐off. Cardiac catheterization was undertaken and using a retrograde approach two Advanta V12 stents were implanted in the complex thoraco‐abdominal coarctation. The gradient across the coarctation was reduced from 80 to 40 mm Hg gradient with a significant improvement in the luminal diameter of the aorta. His upper limb blood pressure reduced to 142/78 mm Hg six weeks later. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
ChemInform Abstract: The New Barium Zinc Mercurides Ba3ZnHg10 and BaZn0.6Hg3.4 — Synthesis, Crystal and Electronic Structure.
Authors: Schwarz Michael , Wendorff Marco , Roehr Caroline
Published: February 2013

The title compounds are prepared from stoichiometric mixtures of the elements (Ta crucibles, Ar, 975—1025 K).
ChemInform Abstract: New Rare‐Earth Metal Germanides with Bismuth Substitution. Synthesis, Structural Variations, and Magnetism of the RE[BixGe1‐x]2 (RE: Y, Pr, Nd, Sm, Gd—Tm, Lu) Compounds.
Authors: Zhang Jiliang , Hmiel Benjamin , Antonelli Anthony , Tobash Paul H. , Bobev Svilen , Saha Shanta , Kirshenbaum Kevin , Greene Richard L. , Paglione Johnpierre
Published: February 2013

Single crystals of the title compounds are prepared from the elements using excess Bi as a flux (alumina crucible in a fused silica tube, 1273 K, 20 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Identifying a Structural Preference in Reduced Rare‐Earth Metal Halides by Combining Experimental and Computational Techniques.
Authors: Steinberg Simon , Brgoch Jakoah , Miller Gordon J. , Meyer Gerd
Published: February 2013

The new compounds {MLa3}Br3 (M: Ru, Ir) are prepared from stoichiometric mixtures of LaBr3, La, and M (Ta containers, 1050 °C, 7 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Intrinsic Single‐Band Upconversion Emission in Colloidal Yb/Er(Tm):Na3Zr(Hf)F7 Nanocrystals.
Authors: Chen Daqin , Lei Lei , Zhang Rui , Yang Anping , Xu Ju , Wang Yuansheng
Published: February 2013

Lanthanoid‐doped Na3Zr(Hf)F7 nanocrystals are prepared solvothermally from EtOH solutions containing MOCl2 (M: Zr, Hf), Ln(NO3)3 (Ln: La—Lu), NH4F, sodium oleate, oleic acid, oleylamine, and H2O (autoclave, 130 °C, 12 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Rare‐Earth Chromium Gallides RE4CrGa12 (RE: Tb—Tm).
Authors: Slater Brianna R. , Bie Haiying , Stoyko Stanislav S. , Bauer Eric D. , Thompson Joe D. , Mar Arthur
Published: February 2013

The new title compounds are prepared from the elements with excess Ga acting as a self‐flux (1000 °C, 7 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Bulk Superconductivity in Bismuth Oxysulfide Bi4O4S3.
Authors: Singh Shiva Kumar , Kumar Anuj , Gahtori Bhasker , Shruti Shruti , Sharma Gyaneshwar , Patnaik Satyabrata , Awana Veer P. S.
Published: February 2013

The title compound is synthesized by solid state reaction of a stoichiometric mixture of Bi, Bi2O3, and sulfur (pressed pellets in an evacuated quartz tube, 500 °C, 2x18 h).
ChemInform Abstract: Elucidation of Tetraboric Acid with a New Borate Fundamental Building Block in a Chiral Uranyl Fluoroborate.
Authors: Wang Shuao , Parker T. Gannon , Grant Daniel J. , Diwu Juan , Alekseev Evgeny V. , Depmeier Wulf , Gagliardi Laura , Albrecht‐Schmitt Thomas E.
Published: February 2013

Rb2 [(UO2)2B8O12F6] ·H2B4O7 is synthesized from mixtures of UO2(NO3)2, H3BO3, RbBF4, and H2O (autoclave, 220 °C, 5 d).
ChemInform Abstract: Molecular Recognition Driven Catalysis Using Polymeric Nanoreactors.
Authors: Cotanda Pepa , O'Reilly Rachel K.
Published: February 2013

Stable micelles with DMAP functionality locked into the hydrophobic core are obtained by copolymerization of a styrenic monomer containing DMAP and styrene.
ChemInform Abstract: Continuous‐Flow Synthesis of Monoarylated Acetaldehydes Using Aryldiazonium Salts.
Authors: Chernyak Natalia , Buchwald Stephen L.
Published: February 2013

The method involves the diazotation of anilines followed by a Meerwein arylation sequence with ethyl vinyl ether.
ChemInform Abstract: Synthesis of N‐Benzylidenebenzylamine from Benzylamine under the Action of Iron‐Containing Catalysts in CCl4.
Authors: Khusnutdinov R. I. , Baygusina A. R. , Aminov R. I.
Published: February 2013

A direct synthesis of N‐benzylidenebenzylamine (II) from benzylamine (I) is achieved with 92 to 96% yield in the presence of iron‐containing catalysts performing the reaction in excess of tetrachloromethane.
ChemInform Abstract: Ligand‐Free Palladium‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Cross‐Coupling of Aryl Halides with Oxalate Monoester Salts.
Authors: Li Yan , Chen Huan‐Huan , Wang Chu‐Fei , Xu Xiao‐Lan , Feng Yi‐Si
Published: February 2013

A convenient protocol is developed which tolerates aryl iodides or activated bromobenzene derivatives to produce functionalized aromatic esters.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium(II) Complex with a Potential N4‐Type Schiff‐Base Ligand as Highly Efficient Catalyst for Suzuki—Miyaura Reactions in Aqueous Media.
Authors: Banik Biplab , Tairai Archana , Shahnaz Nasifa , Das Pankaj
Published: February 2013

The air‐stable new complex renders possible the preparation of various biaryls in aqueous media.
ChemInform Abstract: Efficient One‐Step Synthesis of C3‐Symmetrical Benzenoid Compounds Mediated by SOCl2/EtOH.
Authors: Zhao Sanhu , Kang Lina , Ge Haixia , Yang Feifei , Wang Chenlu , Li Chang , Wang Qiang , Zhao Minggen
Published: February 2013

An efficient trisannulation and further aromatization of aryl methyl ketones leading to novel C3‐symmetrical benzenoid compounds is developed.
ChemInform Abstract: D‐Glucosamine Based‐Phosphine for Suzuki—Miyaura Cross‐Coupling Reactions in the Supported Aqueous Phase Catalysis System.
Authors: Wojcik Karolina , Goux‐Henry Catherine , Andrioletti Bruno , Pietrusiewicz K. Michal , Framery Eric
Published: February 2013

A preformed Pd(II) complex is immobilized on silica and successfully applied to the title process.