bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pericardiocentesis versus Pericardiotomy for Malignant Pericardial Effusion: A Retrospective Comparison
Authors: Labbé C. , Tremblay L. , Lacasse Y.
Published: December 2015

Background: Treatment of malignant pericardial effusion remains controversial, because no randomized controlled trials have been conducted to determine the best approach, and results of retrospective studies have been inconsistent. The objective of the present study was to compare pericardiocentesis and pericardiotomy with respect to efficacy for preventing recurrence, and to determine, for those two procedures, diagnostic yields, complication rates, and effects on survival. We also aimed to identify clinical and procedural factors that could predict effusion recurrence. Methods: We retrospectively assessed 61 patients who underwent a procedure for treatment of a malignant pericardial effusion at the Institut universitaire de cardiologie et de pneumologie de Québec between February 2004 and September 2013. Results: Pericardiocentesis was performed in 42 patients, and pericardiotomy, in 19 patients. The effusion recurrence rate was significantly higher in patients treated with pericardiocentesis than with pericardiotomy (31.0% vs. 5.3%, p = 0.046). The diagnostic yield of the procedures was not significantly different (92.9% vs. 86.7%, p = 0.6). The overall rate of complications was similar in the two groups, as was the median overall survival (2.4 months vs. 2.6 months, p = 0.5). In univariate analyses, the procedure type was the only predictor of recurrence that approached statistical significance. Age, sex, type of cancer, presence of effusion at the time of cancer diagnosis, prior chest irradiation, tamponade upon presentation, and total volume of fluid removed did not influence the recurrence rate. Conclusions: Compared with pericardiocentesis, pericardiotomy had higher success rate in preventing recurrence of malignant pericardial effusion, with similar diagnostic yields, complication rates, and overall survival.
Does CDKN2A Loss Predict Palbociclib Benefit?
Authors: Gao J. , Adams R.P. , Swain S.M.
Published: December 2015

Palbociclib, an oral small-molecule inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6, was recently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in combination with letrozole for postmenopausal women with advanced hormone receptor–positive, her2-negative breast cancer. Patients with loss of CDKN2A (p16), an inherent negative regulator of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6, were not separately studied because of the significant response of the patients selected based only on receptor status. Here, we report a patient with metastatic estrogen receptor–positive, her2-negative breast cancer with CDKN2A loss who experienced a clinical response to palbociclib.
A Pilot Study Using the Chinese Herbal Paste Liu-He-Dan to Manage Radiodermatitis Associated with Breast Cancer Radiotherapy
Authors: Zhou J. , Fang L. , Xie H. , Yao W.X. , Zhou X. , Xiong Z.J.
Published: December 2015

Background: During radiotherapy for breast cancer, patients are greatly affected by pain, infection, and delayed healing of wounds caused by radiodermatitis. In the present study, we aimed to determine the efficacy of Liu-He-Dan in treating radiodermatitis. Methods: In 26 breast cancer patients who experienced moist decrustation while receiving radiotherapy, 5 g Liu-He-Dan was applied externally once daily after the wound surface had been cleaned and dried. The healing time was recorded, and a Kaplan–Meier survival curve was applied to analyze the treatment course. Meanwhile, a pain assessment using the Numeric Rating Scale (nrs) recorded the pain level experienced by patients after application of the Liu-He-Dan. Results: After application of Liu-He-Dan, the average healing time for the surface of the moist decrustation wounds was 14.17 ± 2.03 days (range: 5–22 days). Inflammatory seepage decreased significantly and exudation almost disappeared in 3 days. The pain trend line indicated that the average nrs score declined with treatment in all patients. The average nrs scores at days 1, 4, and 7 were 6.13, 3.62, and 2.58 respectively. After 3 days of treatment, pain was remarkably alleviated in 80.76% of patients. After treatment for 1 week, the pain remission rate was 96.15%, without any obvious adverse reactions. Conclusions: Liu-He-Dan was efficacious in treating radiation skin injury with little toxicity and few side effects; the economic efficiency of the treatment was also favourable. The Liu-He-Dan was generally well tolerated by patients. In future, randomized control trials will be established for further observation of the value of Liu-He-Dan in treating radiodermatitis in breast cancer.
Wellness beyond Cancer Program: Building an Effective Survivorship Program
Authors: Rushton M. , Morash R. , Larocque G. , Liska C. , Stoica L. , DeGrasse C. , Segal R.
Published: December 2015

Background: The Wellness Beyond Cancer Program (wbcp) was launched in 2012, first accepting patients with colorectal cancer (crc) and, subsequently, those with breast cancer (bca), with the aim of standardizing and streamlining the discharge process from our cancer centre. Patients are discharged either to the wbcp nurse practitioner or to their primary care provider (pcp). The program incorporates survivorship care plans (scps) and education classes; it also has a rapid re-entry system in case of recurrence. The objective of this paper is to describe the process by which a cancer survivorship program was developed at our institution and to present preliminary evaluation results. Methods: Qualitative surveys were mailed to patients and pcps 1 year after patients had been referred to the wbcp. The surveys addressed knowledge of the program content, satisfaction on the part of patients and providers, and whether scp recommendations were followed. Questions were scored on the level of agreement with each of a list of statements (1 = strongly disagree to 5 = strongly agree). Results: From March 2012 to November 2014, 2630 patients were referred to the wbcp (809 with crc, 1821 with bca). Surveys were received from 289 patients and 412 pcps. Patients and pcps gave similar scores (average: 4) to statements about satisfaction; pcps gave scores below 4 to statements about communication with the wbcp. Conclusions: At 1 year after discharge, patients and pcps were satisfied with program content, but there is an opportunity to improve on communication and provision of cancer-specific information to the pcps. Using the wbcp to ensure a safe transition to the most appropriate health care provider, we have standardized the discharge process for crc and bca patients.
Treatment Patterns among Canadian Men Diagnosed with Localized Low-Risk Prostate Cancer
Authors: Sandoval C. , Tran K. , Rahal R. , Porter G. , Fung S. , Louzado C. , Liu J. , Bryant H. ,   in collaboration with the System Performance Steering Committee and Technical Working Group
Published: December 2015

In general, guideline-recommended treatment options for men with low-risk prostate cancer (pca) include active surveillance, radical prostatectomy, and external-beam radiation therapy or brachytherapy. Because of the concern about overdiagnosis and consequent overtreatment of pca, patients with low-risk disease are increasingly being managed with active surveillance. Using data from six provincial cancer registries, we examined treatment patterns within a year of a diagnosis of localized low-risk pca, and we assessed differences by age. Of patients diagnosed in 2010 in four of the six reporting provinces, most received surgery or radiation therapy within 1 year of diagnosis. Depending on the province, either surgery or radiation therapy was the most commonly used primary treatment. In the other two provinces, most patients had no record of treatment within a year of diagnosis. Examining treatment patterns by age demonstrated a lesser likelihood of receiving surgery or radiation therapy within 1 year of diagnosis among men more than 75 years of age than among men 75 years of age or younger (no record of treatment in 69.1% and 46.3% respectively). In conclusion, we observed interprovincial and age-specific variations in the patterns of care for men with lowrisk pca. The findings presented in this report are intended to identify opportunities for improvement in clinical practice that could lead to improved care and experience.
DETECTION OF SHARP SYMMETRIC FEATURES IN THE CIRCUMBINARY DISK AROUND AK Sco*
Authors: Janson Markus , Thalmann Christian , Boccaletti Anthony , Maire Anne-Lise , Zurlo Alice , Marzari Francesco , Meyer Michael R. , Carson Joseph C. , Augereau Jean-Charles , Garufi Antonio , Henning Thomas , Desidera Silvano , Asensio-Torres Ruben , Pohl Adriana
Published: December 2015

The Search for Planets Orbiting Two Stars survey aims to study the formation and distribution of planets in binary systems by detecting and characterizing circumbinary planets and their formation environments through direct imaging. With the SPHERE Extreme Adaptive Optics instrument, a good contrast can be achieved even at small (<300 mas) separations from bright stars, which enables studies of planets and disks in a separation range that was previously inaccessible. Here, we report the discovery of resolved scattered light emission from the circumbinary disk around the well-studied young double star AK Sco, at projected separations in the ∼13–40 AU range. The sharp morphology of the imaged feature is surprising, given the smooth appearance of the disk in its spectral energy distribution. We show that the observed morphology can be represented either as a highly eccentric ring around AK Sco, or as two separate spiral arms in the disk, wound in opposite directions. The relative merits of these interpretations are discussed, as well as whether these features may have been caused by one or several circumbinary planets interacting with the disk.
Two new species of Limbodessus diving beetles from New Guinea - short verbal descriptions flanked by online content (digital photography, μCT scans, drawings and DNA sequence data)
Authors: Balke Michael , Ruthensteiner Bernhard , Warikar Evie , Neven Katja , Hendrich Lars
Published: December 2015

To date only one species of Limbodessus diving beetles has been reported from the Island of New Guinea, L. compactus (Clark, 1862), which is widerspread in the Australian region.

We describe two new species of microendemic New Guinea Limbodessus and use a compact descriptive format flanked by enriched online content in wiki powered species pages. Limbodessus baliem sp.n. is described from ca. 1,600 m altitude in the Baliem Valley of Papua and Limbodessus alexanderi sp.n. from >3,000 m altitude north of Sugapa, Papua.

Based on our analysis, we also transfer three species from other genera to Limbodessus Guignot, 1939, with the following changes: Limbodessus deflectus (Ordish, 1966), new combination; Limbodessus leveri (J. Balfour-Browne, 1944), new combination; and Limbodessus plicatus (Sharp, 1882), new combination.
De la sociologie appliquée à l’éducation à l’étude des faits sociaux. L’enseignement de sociologie dans les Écoles normales : une homologation scientifique à géométrie variable (1920-1970)
Authors: Guey Emmanuelle
Published: December 2015

À l’image de la psychopédagogie, l’étude des faits sociaux est une des disciplines hybrides apparues dans le champ de la formation des enseignants du premier degré d’après-guerre. Bien qu’aucune d’elle ne connaîtra de légitimité scientifique universitaire, chacune possède son histoire propre appuyée par une pratique éducative et semble concourir à une volonté de former les enseignants à une culture professionnelle. Notre article cherche à comprendre si l’introduction d’une nouvelle discipline dans le curriculum des normaliens, entendu comme programme d’études (Forquin, 2008), permet ou non de renouveler, voire de « réenchanter », le métier d’instituteur et par là même son identité professionnelle.
Des maîtres de CEG aux PEGC (1961-1986) : identité primaire et/ou secondaire ?
Authors: Bret Dominique
Published: December 2015

Lors des changements structurels des années 1960-70, a été créé un corps d’enseignants (les maîtres de CEG en 1961 puis les PEGC en 1969) bivalents pour le collège. Ces professeurs, jusqu’à l’arrêt du recrutement en 1987, ont eu une place non négligeable à côté des certifiés et agrégés dans le secondaire. Marqués par le monde primaire à leur origine, ces enseignants ont progressivement délaissé leur identité professionnelle construite sur la polyvalence et la pluridisciplinarité au service d’élèves en difficulté pour une identité disciplinaire mise en jeu face aux élèves des niveaux inférieurs du secondaire. Cette « secondarisation » résulte de leur formation, des modifications des structures et des contenus. Elle s’est surtout opérée sur le terrain, la concurrence avec les certifiés et les agrégés les amenant à orienter leurs pratiques professionnelles vers celles du secondaire.
Arthroscopically Assisted Surgery for Coronoid Fractures
Authors: Lee Jong Myung , Yi Young , Kim Jeong Woo
Published: December 2015

Coronoid fractures are not easily accessed surgically. Despite the majority of cases of coronoid fracture responding to conservative treatment, limited range of motion or instability can develop after such treatment. Therefore, unstable coronoid fractures should be treated surgically to improve clinical outcome. Several approaches and treatment methods have been used for coronoid fractures. The authors report the clinical characteristics, results, and outcomes of 10 cases of Regan-Morrey Type I, Type II, and Type III coronoid fractures treated using a novel arthroscopic technique. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):742–746.]
Testosterone Therapy Can Interact With Thrombophilia, Leading to Osteonecrosis
Authors: Glueck Charles J. , Riaz Rashid , Prince Marloe , Freiberg Richard A. , Wang Ping
Published: December 2015

Although this effect is not widely recognized, testosterone therapy can interact with thrombophilia, causing osteonecrosis. In 12 men and 4 women who had idiopathic osteonecrosis a median of 6 months after the onset of testosterone therapy, the authors examined the interaction between testosterone therapy and previously undiagnosed thrombophilia. The authors hypothesized that patients who had osteonecrosis after starting testosterone therapy were more likely than 110 normal control subjects or 48 patients who had osteonecrosis and were not receiving testosterone therapy to have thrombophilia. Measures of thrombophilia included Factor V Leiden, prothrombin, PAI-1 gene mutations, Factor VIII, Factor XI, anticardiolipin antibody immunoglobulin G or immunoglobulin M, and homocysteine values. In 10 cases, osteonecrosis occurred 6 months or less after the onset of testosterone therapy, and in all 16 cases, it occurred after a median of 6 months of testosterone therapy. Of the 16 cases, 5 (31%) were Factor V Leiden heterozygotes vs 2 of 109 (2%) healthy control subjects (
P
=.0003) and 4 of 48 patients who had osteonecrosis and were not receiving testosterone therapy (
P
=.04). Of the 16 cases, 4 (25%) had high (>150%) Factor VIII levels vs 7 of 103 (7%) healthy control subjects (
P
=.04), and 3 (19%) had high (>150%) Factor XI levels vs 3 of 101 (3%) healthy control subjects (
P
=.03). Of the 16 patients with osteonecrosis, 14 (88%) had at least 1 abnormal procoagulant value (of the 8 measured) vs 47 of 110 (43%) healthy control subjects (
P
=.0009). Of the 5 men whose serum estradiol level was measured while they were receiving testosterone therapy, this level was high (≥42.6 pg/mL) in 4. When testosterone therapy is given to patients with thrombophilia, they are at increased risk for osteonecrosis. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):e1073–e1078.]
Outcomes of Instrumented and Noninstrumented Posterolateral Lumbar Fusion
Authors: Pourtaheri Sina , Billings Charles , Bogatch Michael , Issa Kimona , Haraszti Christopher , Mangel Daniel , Lord Elizabeth , Park Howard , Ajiboye Remi , Ashana Adedayo , Emami Arash
Published: December 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the long-term clinical and radiographic outcomes of posterolateral lumbar fusion for lumbar stenosis cases requiring bilateral facetectomy in conjunction with a laminectomy. The authors evaluated 34 consecutive patients who had undergone a lumbar laminectomy, bilateral partial facetectomy, and posterolateral fusion at a single institution between 1981 and 1996. They included 25 men and 9 women with a mean age of 42 years (range, 27–57 years). Twenty-three cases were instrumented and 11 were noninstrumented. Mean follow-up was 21 years (range, 15–29 years). Outcomes evaluated included reoperation rate, clinical outcomes evaluated by the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, radiographic evaluations of adjacent segmental degeneration (ASD) and lumbar lordosis, and contributing demographic factors to disease progression. At final follow-up, 17 of the 34 patients had undergone reoperation (43% of the instrumented group and 64% of the noninstrumented group). There were no differences in the reoperation rate or ODI improvement between the instrumented and noninstrumented groups (
P
>.05). Female patients required more revisions, had less ODI improvement, had greater postoperative ASD, and had less maintenance of their postoperative lumbar lordosis. There was no difference in maintenance of postoperative lumbar lordosis or ASD between the instrumented and noninstrumented groups. Instrumentation did not improve revision rates, clinical outcomes, or radiographic outcomes in laminectomies requiring contemporaneous facetectomies. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):e1104–e1109.]
Mason Type I Fractures of the Radial Head
Authors: de Muinck Keizer Robert-Jan O. , Walenkamp Monique M. J. , Goslings J. Carel , Schep Niels W. L.
Published: December 2015

Mason type I fractures are the most common fractures of the radial head. The fractures have a benign character and often result in good, pain-free function. Nevertheless, up to 20% of patients with a Mason type I fracture report loss of extension and residual pain. Currently, there is a lack of consensus concerning diagnosis and treatment of these fractures. The goal of this study was to systematically review incidence, diagnosis, classification, treatment, and outcome of Mason type I radial head fractures in adults and establish an evidence-based treatment guideline. A search of the MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases was conducted for English titles without restrictions on publication date. The authors included titles that addressed Mason type I radial head fractures and covered incidence, diagnostics, treatment, or functional or patient-related outcome. Included were randomized controlled trials; case-control studies; comparative cohort studies; case series with more than 10 patients; and expert opinions. Reference lists were cross-checked for additional titles. The search yielded 1734 studies, of which 95 met the inclusion criteria. Seven studies showed that the elbow extension test has a high sensitivity (88.0–97.6) to rule out Mason type I radial head fractures. If radiography is required, antero-posterior and lateral radiographs suffice. For pain relief, hematoma aspiration seems safe and effective. Mason type I fractures are best treated with 48 hours of rest with a sling, followed with active mobilization. Cast immobilization should be avoided. Mobilization should be encouraged and if needed supported by physical therapy. [
Orthopedics.
2015; 38(12):e1147–e1154.]
Le thème du contrôle social au cœur de la question de l’éthique dans les technologies de l’information et de la communication
Authors: Piet  Laetitia , Prince  Bernard
Published: December 2015

Depuis 2011, chaque année, 20 à 40 étudiants de l’Ecole Centrale de Marseille préparent des présentations sur des conflits de valeur posés par le développement des technologies de l’information et de la communication. Quel que soit le sujet abordé, la question du contrôle social est présente sous une forme ou sous une autre. Cet article présente notre pratique de terrain ces cinq dernières années et montre comment ce thème se décline dans les préoccupations des étudiants. Notre contribution constitue aussi un témoignage sur la légitimité et la pertinence d’un enseignement de l’éthique dans une école généraliste qui ambitionne de former des ingénieurs éclairés sur leurs pratiques et leurs responsabilités.
Diffusion des documents et données environnementales au regard de leur statut juridique
Authors: DUVAL Laurence , Henaff Gaël , MAGNANON Sylvie
Published: December 2015

La mise à disposition des informations dans un cadre légal n’est pas facile à appréhender du fait de la multiplicité des textes concernant celle-ci. Nous présentons ici le contexte juridique pour un établissement public, avec des exemples concrets qui s’appliquent au Conservatoire botanique national de Brest (CBN de Brest). Nous nous intéressons aux données environnementales. Qu’elles soient massives ou non, les contraintes légales sont les mêmes. Les services publics sont incités de plus en plus fortement à mettre à disposition leurs données sur Internet et ils n’ont pas toujours les moyens d’appréhender à leur juste valeur les obligations et implications juridiques qu’une diffusion massive des données impose. Nous présentons ici avec un cas concret, celui du CBN de Brest, les droits et devoirs d’un établissement public en termes de communication et de diffusion de ses informations quelle qu’en soit la forme : document numériques, données brutes, ...
Différenciations sociales des présentations numériques de soi
Authors: Alber Alex , Anzalone Guilhem , Bernon Marie-Laure
Published: December 2015

Cet article explicite les différenciations sociales des présentations numériques de soi.
Concevoir des environnements virtuels éducatifs avec les utilisateurs finaux : Exemple du projet VirtualiTeach
Authors: Loup-Escande Émilie , Jamet Éric , Ragot Martin , Erhel Séverine , Michinov Nicolas , Peltier Clément , Lopez Thomas
Published: December 2015

La conception d’Environnements Virtuels Éducatifs (EVE) efficaces nécessite l’implication des utilisateurs finaux. Aussi, nous avons mis en place un processus de conception centrée-utilisateur (norme IS0 9241-210) dans le cadre d’un projet visant la conception d’un environnement virtuel favorisant l’apprentissage de concepts scientifiques (projet VirtualiTeach). L’objectif de cet article est de formaliser ce qu’est une conception avec et pour les utilisateurs finaux dans le contexte des EVE visant à favoriser l’apprentissage de concepts scientifiques et d’en identifier les apports. Pour ce faire, nous décrivons les contributions effectives de plusieurs profils d’utilisateurs (par exemple, les enseignants, les élèves) à la compréhension et à la spécification des contextes d’usage, à l’identification des besoins des utilisateurs et aux évaluations de solutions intermédiaires et finales.
Pratiques numériques en éducation : l’exemple des usages de Twitter en milieu scolaire
Authors: Delesalle Cécile , Marquié Gérard
Published: December 2015

Une enquête annuelle auprès de professionnels de l’éducation a été réalisée par l’INJEP1 et Vérès Consultants depuis 2011 sur les usages de Twitter en milieu scolaire. Elle fait partie d’une série d’études et d’expérimentations initiées dans le cadre d’une recherche-formation-action plus générale concernant le développement d’outils de suivi des pratiques d’Internet des jeunes et des professionnels de l’éducation et de la jeunesse. Les résultats de cette enquête montrent que ce type de pratique numérique réinterroge la relation éducative. Ils éclairent également sur les compétences développées par les acteurs, tant les jeunes que les professionnels, et sur les apports d’outils numériques, que ce soit en termes pédagogiques, de réseau ou de co-formation, ceci dans un contexte institutionnel encore perçu par les professionnels comme peu favorisant.
Questions, Problems, and Analysis of the Answers in Intelligent Educational Systems
Authors: Hodashinsky Iliya A.
Published: December 2015

One of the stages of the study is to test knowledge. To test the knowledge the learner is asked to answer questions or to solve a number of problems. According to the responses received one can determine the knowledge of the trainees of some of the studied material. In addition, the design of tasks, processing and analysis of the responses is important when testing, when measuring qualities and personality traits.
Vocational Training of Masters Using E-Learning Systems as the Basis of a Professional Teacher
Authors: Rumbesha Elena , Bushueva Irina
Published: December 2015

In this chapter, the authors show a promising model of education in the future. The model is based on blended learning and integrates remote and internal forms. At present, the authors have developed system elements for graduate teacher education, combining classroom training with remote instruction. In this chapter professor Elena Rumbesha (Tomsk State Pedagogical University) and professor Vardan Mkrttchian (HHH University) use the results of previous research and publications about Masters of Education to explain the idea of distance learning as a special form of interaction between teachers and students enabling those to use inherent in traditional teaching forms and methods along with modern distance learning methods.
The Modern Problem of Psychological and Pedagogical Foundations of Russian E-Learning Systems
Authors: Aysmontas Bronyus , Uddin Md. Akther
Published: December 2015

The chapter draws attention to the psychological and psycho-pedagogical aspects of the use of information technology in education. In this regard, the core aspects are considered. Much attention is paid to such research as the study of the effect of distance learning on cognitive and personal development of students; development of subjectivity university students; psychological and cognitive barriers in distance learning. It is emphasized that only a small number of universities in the Russian Federation has assumed responsibility to engage in learning disability issues. The main difficulty is to teach students with disabilities. This chapter provides annotation project of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Russian Federation “Development and testing of models of teaching and methodical center providing higher education for disabled persons and persons with disabilities with a variety of Diseases”. As part of this project there will be the implementation of a program of networking for students with disabilities in the format of the Consortium. The main objective of the Consortium is to describe the principles of networking schools, considered as a possible model of networking schools and Interpretation of the basic steps of creating intercollegiate information and educational network of universities.
Estimation and E-Control at Educational Routes as Means of Improvement of Cognitive Interests of Bachelors and Masters
Authors: Rumbesha Elena , Zelichenko Vladimir , Ponomareva Olga
Published: December 2015

In this chapter, the authors show that cognitive interest - a selective orientation of the person facing the field of knowledge, is Key to the very process of mastering knowledge. For the Bachelor / Master student, educational interest may be at different levels of development and the nature of orientation is caused by different experiences use prof. Vardan Mkrttchian last publications about Bachelor/Masters studies. For maintenance and formation of informative interest, the authors suggest the use of various combinations of teaching methods (demonstrations, lessons, study, game technology, problem-based learning, design technology, mind maps, individual educational routes etc.). The authors believe that the most effective method of development of informative interest is the construction of an individual educational route. A unique educational program that provides the Bachelor / Master student with the position of his own subject selection, then developed and implemented in educational programs as well as implemented by teachers to foster students' self-determination and self-realization.
Development and Support of E-Learning Systems in Tomsk State Pedagogical University
Authors: Gazizov Timur , Prishepa Tatyana , Chervonnyy Mikhail
Published: December 2015

Processes of IT development in modern society and closely related processes of IT development in all forms of educational activities are characterized by the process of improvement and mass distribution of up-to-date information and communication technologies (ICT). Similar technologies are used extensively for communication and collaboration between the teacher and the student in modern open and distance learning. A modern teacher must not only have knowledge of ICT but also must be an expert on their application in his/her professional activity. In this case, application of such technology is closely related to distance learning and e-learning. In this paper, we intend to simulate and show outcomes of the development of e-learning support systems on the example of Tomsk State Pedagogical University (TSPU).
E-Design and E-Development of Real Estate Services in Russia
Authors: Muminova Svetlana , Kopylov Yuri
Published: December 2015

This chapter analyzes the application of E-Design and E-Development in real estate service management in Russian Federation. It includes five levels; each describes respectively the business management ability levels for real estate services of different levels of maturity. Through the application of the model, it indicates that E-Design and E-Development can help to continue upgrading the management capacity of real estate services using cloud computing and service delivery options for real estate technology solutions. The chapter shows why the first step is to gain a good understanding of how the technology solution will help to manage operational activities, control costs, and reduce risks. The results obtained in chapter - scientific, practical solutions and software products - form the basis of an academic discipline to design services for the real estate service in the Russian State University for Tourism and Service use by Prof. Vardan Mkrttchian last publications in IGI Global.
Problems of Control by the Technique Creation of Quality Estimation of Electronic of Training in Realization Conditions of Competition Approach
Authors: Usoltzev Alexander , Shamalo Tamara , Scherbakova Vera
Published: December 2015

In this chapter the main contradictions and discrepancies which are available in pedagogical system are considered. Introduction of electronic tutorials and estimation doesn't lead to their disappearance, and causes new aspects at the new level. In difficult systems other, nonlinear regularities therefore efficiency of educational process doesn't increase linearly, in proportion to the used new information technologies work, it is necessary to consider that the assessment plays not only function of correlation (comparison of knowledge and abilities of the pupil his valuable orientations and they got experience of activity with some standards, levels), but also means of motivation. The assessment has to stimulate the pupil to further educational activity, increase his activity. Therefore we consider aspiration to a total objectivity of an assessment, finding of general algorithm for its definition not only senseless, but also harmful.
The Integration of Same E-Technologies for Solving Complex Problem in Subject of World State
Authors: Bershadsky Alexander , Fionova Ludmila
Published: December 2015

The chapter discusses the perspective approach to addressing cross-sectoral integration and use of fragmented sectoral statistics within a single, thematically invariant monitoring system and a new concept of the complex infrastructure of the territory (CIT). For formalized representation of CIT proposed four-level information and a mathematical model. Propose a method for integrating of same E-Technologies (OLAP, Data Mining and GIS technologies) for solving complex monitoring infrastructure and all problems' in subject of world state.
Using Blended Learning and Emerging Technologies to Transform the Adult Learning Experience
Authors: Cordie Leslie , Witte Maria Martinez , Witte James E.
Published: December 2015

Faculty are increasing the use of emerging technologies in their classrooms and are recognizing the value of blending face-to-face and online learning to meet educational needs. Blended learning is defined as combining face-to-face and online learning formats. This chapter discusses the definition of blended learning and how it is affecting adult learning experiences and classroom settings. This chapter also addresses faculty and instructional design practices that can be used for blended learning and to continue promoting a positive teaching and learning environment for both face-to-face and online learners. Future research efforts can be focused on faculty development and academic support to continue fostering blended learning and meeting the needs of today's learners.
The Use of Technology to Promote Engagement
Authors: Odom-Bartel Rebecca L.
Published: December 2015

This chapter explores five case studies to examine technology's impact on teaching, learning, and service. Each case study examined an online or hybrid course that primarily focused on community engagement through non-traditional methods, and in which students were responsible for creating knowledge in a way that would inform a community. Through this examination the chapter shows how what is known about civic engagement and citizenship is changing due to the fact that society is evolving and technology is being used in many ways to connect communities. By using Web 2.0 tools the learning environment encouraged individualized learning while still increasing the impact of learning beyond traditional boundaries of a brick and mortar institution. Finally, this chapter shows that by incorporating student-created projects using Web 2.0 tools it provided an overwhelming benefit to students in the form of self-empowerment. Students were able to develop personalized projects that positively impacted their communities.
Technology-Enabled Learning Opportunities
Authors: Manzoor Amir
Published: December 2015

No generation is more at ease with technology than today's young people. This generation of students has grown up in an immersive computing environment and come to the school equipped with latest electronic gadgets such as smart phones, laptops and iPods. Educational technology supports meaningful learning and facilitates group interaction. The technology-based learning is especially useful in helping students conceptualize phenomena and processes. This chapter examines the role of technology in shaping the future of higher education by providing unique opportunities of learning. The chapter also discusses challenges of technology-enabled learning and offer specific recommendations to overcome these challenges.
Decentralization in European and MENA Countries
Authors: Vaillancourt Francois , Bird Richard M.
Published: December 2015

The question considered in this chapter is whether decentralization is likely to hurt or help national unity in “countries at risk.” We begin with a literature review, focusing on three particular questions: the size and number of nations; the determinants of decentralization; and, finally, and bearing most directly on our topic, the links between decentralization and political outcomes. We next set out in capsule form some of the very mixed stories of linkages between decentralization and national unity found in Europe and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, before considering more closely the ongoing discussions of secession in three European countries – Belgium, Spain and the United Kingdom. We conclude that the impact of decentralization on national unity is so complex and context-sensitive that no general answers to our initial question emerge: in some instances, decentralization may be an inducement for regions to stay in a country; in others, however, it may prove to be only a way station on the road to the exit.
Are Women in the MENA Region really that Different from Women in Europe?
Authors: Fischer Justina A. V. , Aydiner-Avsar Nursel
Published: December 2015

This chapter compares women in the MENA region with women in Europe as to how globalization affects their conservatism, and, thereby, their labor market participation. Conservative values are defined as both religious values and socio-political attitudes. Using micro data from the World Values Survey 1981-2014 from 80 countries, we employ various indicators of globalization that reflect, first, international trade and, second, global flows of information. In pre-1994 Western Europe, economic globalization appears to weaken those conservative secular values that pertain to female employment, while all remaining secular-conservative values erode after 1994. The MENA region of today resembles pre-cold war Western Europe, with post-cold-war Western Europe possibly predicting changes to come in the MENA region. In the MENA region, women respond to intensifying economic globalization with deeper religiosity, possibly as form of self-protection. Global exchange of information, however, weakens all kinds of conservative values in general in either region.
Elite Communication and Legitimization of Violence during Inter-Group Conflicts
Authors: Shaikh Sonia Jawaid
Published: December 2015

A comparative content analysis was conducted across communication from elites involved in inter-group conflicts across two decades and from four different countries (the former Yugoslavia, Rwanda, Sri Lanka and Myanmar). A thematic coding scheme was developed using themes identified in the previous literature, Susan Benesch's proposal on dangerous speech (2012) and perspectives from Social Identity Theory (1981). Coding and analysis revealed that across countries and temporal spans, elites bolster in-group and out-group distinctions and identity through their language choices, but typically avoid outright dehumanization as commonly assumed. Moreover, they excessively create non-falsifiable statements about current, past, or future events; and employ allegations against the intentions, plans and activities of the out-group. These non-falsifiable statements make a bulk of their speech or broadcasts. Several additional themes were identified as well which point to contextualization of communication.
Ancient Wisdom for Transformational Leadership and Its Insights from the Bhagavad-Gita
Authors: Satpathy Biswajit , Muniapan Balakrishnan
Published: December 2015

During the past one decade we have witnessed an increase in number of literatures on ancient wisdom in leadership. Among the Indian (Asian) literatures, the Bhagavad-Gita is often cited by many scholars. Therefore, in this chapter, the authors attempt to draw a parallel between the transformational leadership and the Bhagavad-Gita. The significance of transformational leadership has received great attention and good amount of study has been done in this area. For this chapter, the authors have employed hermeneutics, which is a methodology used for the interpretation of ancient literatures. The Bhagavad-Gita advocates a consciousness and a spirit-centered approach to transformational leadership based on eternal values and moral principles. This chapter is likely to provide insights into Indian (Asian) leadership (and management) strategies for Western business leaders, enabling them to work more effectively with Indian business leaders in India, and in regions where there are significant Indian population.
Youth Entrepreneurship in India
Authors: Baporikar Neeta
Published: December 2015

Governments and local communities globally have recognized that key to building prosperity and stimulating regional growth is fostering entrepreneurship - mainly youth entrepreneurship. India is no exception, with so many educated yet unemployed youth; continuous policies are being drawn and attempts made for promoting youth entrepreneurship. Unemployment for educated youth has become particularly acute since the education explosion in early 2000's. Though the promotion of entrepreneurship as a possible source of job creation, empowerment and resources dynamism has attracted increasing policy and scholarly attention, yet there is no systematic attempt to look at it from a youth angle. This has resulted in lack of an adequate understanding of the potential benefits of youth entrepreneurship (YE). Through grounded research and in-depth analysis, the aim of this chapter is to stimulate policy debate, portray the outlook and understand the obstacle for youth entrepreneurship in India. Attempt is also made to suggest strategies that can be initiated for enhancing youth entrepreneurship.
Effect of Ga Pre-Deposition Rate on GaAs Nanowires Grown by Self-Assisted VLS Method Using MBE on SiO2/Si(111) Substrates
Authors: Vorathamrong Samatcha , Prongjit Patchareewan , Panyakeow Somsak , Ratanathammaphan Somchai , Praserthdam Piyasan , Thongyam Chiraporn
Published: December 2015

We report on the study on effect of Ga pre-deposition rate on GaAs nanowires grown by self-assisted vapor-liquid-solid (VLS) method. Ga droplets were initially deposited on the surface of Si(111) substrates covered with thin layer of SiO2. The nanowires were grown by molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). Dependency of structural of nanowires on Ga pre-deposition rate is investigated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM), Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and X-ray Diffraction Analysis (XRD). The experimental results show that the different in Ga pre-deposition rate significantly affect the surface morphology of samples. Growth rate and the density of nanowires strongly depends on the Ga pre-deposition rate.
Classification of Fertilizer Solutions by Micro-Volume Voltammetric Electronic Tongue with Two Sensing Electrodes
Authors: Chodjarusawad Thanawee , Saeteaw Kanjana , Phromyothin Darinee , Porntheeraphat Supanit , Maolanon Rungroj , Tumcharern Gamolwan , Jiemsakul Thanakorn , Chaisriratanakul Woraphan , Sripumkhai Witsaroot , Nukeaw Jiti , Pratontep Sirapat
Published: December 2015

A micro-volume electronic tongue based on cyclic voltammetry with two sensing electrodes (gold and carbon) and a platinum pseudo-reference electrode is proposed to classify fertilizers and monitor fertilizer uptakes. The electronic tongue has been employed to classify three different types of commercial fertilizers and their mixture. The nutrient uptake of Dracaena Sanderiana (D. Sanderiana) planted in crystal soil with the mixture fertilizer was monitored by sampling the fertilizer solutions with the electronic tongue over a period of one week. The contents of macronutrients in the solutions were also analyzed by the standard spectroscopic techniques for comparison. A good agreement is obtained between the relative uptakes of phosphate and potassium from the electronic tongue analysis and those from the standard analytical techniques.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Nanostructured Zinc Oxide Film Sensitized with Palladium Chloride for Butane/Propane Gas Sensing
Authors: Florido Emmanuel A. , Maghirang Aniceto B.
Published: December 2015

Zinc oxide (ZnO) films on graphite substrate were fabricated using electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method. The effect of concentration and applied voltage in EPD were determined in which the mass of deposited ZnO depends on the applied voltage and not on the concentration. Sensitization of film with palladium chloride (PdCl2) was done through dipping method. The optimum number of dipping is 20. The sensitized samples were subjected to annealing at 100 °C for 30 minutes. The morphology of the films was analyzed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) which showed the porosity and thickness of the samples. The IV characterization of the samples was done via four-point probe method and the resistivity and resistance were calculated. The resistivity and resistance were found to be lowest in graphite substrate while the films with palladium (Pd) showed lower values of resistivity and resistance than the films without palladium. . A three trial gas sensing experiment at room temperature was performed in which the response of the film to butane/propane gas (LPG) was tested and showed that it successfully sensed the gas. The sample with Pd deposited at the highest applied voltage showed the best gas response and response time among the other samples.Zinc Oxide (ZnO) films on graphite substrate were fabricated using Electrophoretic Deposition (EPD) method. The effect of concentration and applied voltage in EPD were determined in which the mass of deposited ZnO depends on the applied voltage and not on the concentration. Sensitization of film with Palladium Chloride (PdCl2) was done through dipping method. The optimum number of dipping is 20. The sensitized samples were subjected to annealing at 100 °C for 30 minutes. The morphology of the films was analyzed through Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) which showed the porosity and thickness of the samples. The IV characterization of the samples was done via four-point probe method and the resistivity and resistance were calculated. The resistivity and resistance was found to be lowest in graphite substrate while the films with palladium (Pd) showed lower values of resistivity and resistance than the films without palladium. . A three trial gas sensing experiment at room temperature was performed in which the sensitivity of the film to butane/propane gas (LPG) was tested and showed that it successfully sensed the gas. The sample with Pd deposited at the highest applied voltage showed the best sensitivity and response time among the other samples.
Ultraviolet Sensor Based on Organic/Inorganic Heterojunction between PEDOT:PSS and ZnO Nanoparticles Thin Films
Authors: Tantisantisom Kittipong , Jiramitmonkon Kanpitcha , Jiemsakul Thanakorn , Chodjarusawad Thanawee , Asawapirom Udom
Published: December 2015

In this work, the ultraviolet (UV) sensors based on heterojunction between layer of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) and poly (3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly (styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS) were fabricated, characterized and studied in the electrical response to UV 365 nm. The ZnO NPs layer was solution-based coated on the top of PEDOT:PSS film on the patterned indium tin oxide (ITO) coated on glass. Aluminum was deposited as the top electrode of the device. The current-voltage (I-V) characteristic shows the rectifying behavior in the dark field. With the UV irradiation, the reverse bias current can be found and the forward bias current also highly increases. The current-voltage data fitting with the thermionic emission model shows that the potential barrier height at the heterojunction decreases with illuminating by UV light. Relative high photoresponse of the device exhibits the potential to UV detector application.
Effect of SiO2 Thickness on GaAs Nanowires on Si (111) Substrates Grown by Molecular Beam Epitaxy
Authors: Prongjit Patchareewan , Vorathamrong Samatcha , Panyakeow Somsak , Tongyam Chiraporn , Prasertthdam Piyasan , Ratanathammaphan Somchai
Published: December 2015

The GaAs nanowires are grown on Si (111) substrates by Ga-assisted molecular beam epitaxy growth technique. The effect of SiO2 thickness on the structural properties of GaAs nanowires is investigated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The nucleation of GaAs nanowires related to the presence of a SiO2 layer previously coated on Si substrate. The results show that the density, length, and diameter of GaAs nanowires strongly depend on the oxidation time (or SiO2 thickness).