bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Übergangsmetallvermittelte und ‐katalysierte C‐F‐Bindungsaktivierung durch Fluoreliminierung
Authors: Fujita Takeshi , Fuchibe Kohei , Ichikawa Junji
Published: June 2018

Die Aktivierung von Kohlenstoff‐Fluor‐Bindungen (C‐F‐Bindungen) ist ein bedeutendes Thema in der organischen Synthesechemie. Metallvermittelte und ‐katalysierte Eliminierungen von β‐ oder α‐Fluor finden unter milderen Bedingungen statt als oxidative Additionen an C‐F‐Bindungen. Die β‐ oder α‐Fluor‐Eliminierung wird ausgehend von organometallischen Intermediaten mit Fluorsubstituenten in β‐ oder α‐Position zu Metallzentren eingeleitet. Umsetzungen durch solche Eliminierungsprozesse (C‐F‐Bindungsspaltungen), welche typischerweise auf eine Kohlenstoff‐Kohlenstoff‐Bindungsknüpfung (oder Kohlenstoff‐Heteroatom‐Bindungsknüpfung) folgen, wurden in den vergangenen fünf Jahren zunehmend zur C‐F‐Bindungsaktivierung entwickelt. In diesem Kurzaufsatz fassen wir die Anwendungen Übergangsmetallvermittelter und ‐katalysierter Fluoreliminierung in der organischen Synthesechemie aus einer historischen Perspektive anhand früher Arbeiten und aus einer systematischen Perspektive am Beispiel aktueller Untersuchungen zusammen.
A Stable Crown Ether Complex with a Noble‐Gas Compound
Authors: Marczenko Katherine M. , Mercier Hélène P. A. , Schrobilgen Gary J.
Published: June 2018

Crown ethers have been known for over 50 years, but no example of a complex between a noble‐gas compound and a crown ether or another polydentate ligand had previously been reported. Xenon trioxide is shown to react with 15‐crown‐5 to form the kinetically stable (CH2CH2O)5XeO3 adduct, which, in marked contrast with solid XeO3, does not detonate when mechanically shocked. The crystal structure shows that the five oxygen atoms of the crown ether are coordinated to the xenon atom of XeO3. The gas‐phase Wiberg bond valences and indices and the empirical bond valences indicate that the Xe‐ ‐ ‐Ocrown bonds are predominantly electrostatic and are consistent with σ‐hole bonding. Mappings of the electrostatic potential (EP) onto the Hirshfeld surfaces of XeO3 and 15‐crown‐5 in (CH2CH2O)5XeO3 and a detailed examination of the molecular electrostatic potential surface (MEPS) of XeO3 and (CH2CH2O)5 reveal regions of negative EP on the oxygen atoms of (CH2CH2O)5 and regions of high positive EP on the xenon atom, which are also in accordance with σ‐hole interactions.
Transition‐Metal‐Mediated and ‐Catalyzed C−F Bond Activation by Fluorine Elimination
Authors: Fujita Takeshi , Fuchibe Kohei , Ichikawa Junji
Published: June 2018

The activation of carbon–fluorine (C−F) bonds is an important topic in synthetic organic chemistry. Metal‐mediated and ‐catalyzed elimination of β‐ or α‐fluorine proceeds under milder conditions than oxidative addition to C−F bonds. The β‐ or α‐fluorine elimination is initiated from organometallic intermediates having fluorine substituents on carbon atoms β or α to metal centers, respectively. Transformations through these elimination processes (C−F bond cleavage), which are typically preceded by carbon–carbon (or carbon–heteroatom) bond formation, have been increasingly developed in the past five years as C−F bond activation methods. In this Minireview, we summarize the applications of transition‐metal‐mediated and ‐catalyzed fluorine elimination to synthetic organic chemistry from a historical perspective with early studies and from a systematic perspective with recent studies.
Exploiting the Synthetic Potential of Sesquiterpene Cyclases for Generating Unnatural Terpenoids
Authors: Oberhauser Clara , Harms Vanessa , Seidel Katja , Schröder Benjamin , Ekramzadeh Kimia , Beutel Sascha , Winkler Sven , Lauterbach Lukas , Dickschat Jeroen S. , Kirschning Andreas
Published: June 2018

The substrate flexibility of eight purified sesquiterpene cyclases was evaluated using six new heteroatom‐modified farnesyl pyrophosphates, and the formation of six new heteroatom‐modified macrocyclic and tricyclic sesquiterpenoids is described. GC‐O analysis revealed that tricyclic tetrahydrofuran exhibits an ethereal, peppery, and camphor‐like olfactoric scent.
Performance Enhancement for Rigid Tapping by Iterative Learning Control
Authors: Chen Shyh‐Leh , Wen Chih‐Chao , Zhao Ruo‐Lan
Published: June 2018

In this study, an iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm is proposed to improve synchronous errors in rigid tapping. In rigid tapping, the displacements of the z‐axis and spindle must be kept synchronous to prevent damage. Using learning control provides better commands for both the z‐axis and spindle dynamics, improving the synchronicity of the output responses of the z‐axis and spindle. The proposed ILC makes use of synchronous errors in the previous cycle of tapping to modify the current position commands of both the z‐axis and spindle. A systematic algorithm is proposed for the computation of learning gains that guarantee the monotonic convergence of synchronous errors. A systematic procedure of applying ILC to rigid tapping is also proposed, where the ideas of effective learning gains and stop learning criteria are discussed. Experimental results on a tapping machine verify the effectiveness of the proposed ILC algorithm.
A high‐performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for simultaneous determination of imigliptin, its five metabolites and alogliptin in human plasma and urine and its application to a multiple‐dose pharmacokinetic study
Authors: Liu Yang , Song Ling , Yao Xueting , Wu Yiwen , Liu Hongzhong , Zhao Qian , Jiang Ji , Shi Chongtie , Ma Xifeng , Zhou Huimin , Liu Dongyang , Hu Pei
Published: June 2018

Imigliptin is a novel DPP‐4 inhibitor, designed to treat type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). A selective and sensitive method was developed using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC–MS/MS) to simultaneously quantify imigliptin, its five metabolites, and alogliptin in human plasma and urine. Solid‐phase extraction (SPE) and direct dilution were used to extract imigliptin, its five metabolites, alogliptin from plasma and urine, respectively. The extracts were injected onto a SymmetryShield RP8 column with a gradient elution of methanol and water containing 10 mM ammonium formate (pH = 7). Ionization of all analytes was performed using an electrospray ionization (ESI) source in positive mode and detection was carried out with multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The results revealed that the method had excellent selectivity and linearity. Inter‐ and intra‐batch precisions of all analytes were less than 15% and the accuracies were within 85%–115% for both plasma and urine. The sensitivity, matrix effect, extraction recovery, linearity, and stabilities were validated for all analytes in human plasma and urine. In conclusion, the validation results showed that this method was robust, specific, and sensitive and it can successfully applied to a pharmacokinetic study of Chinese T2DM subjects after oral dose of imigliptin and alogliptin.
A survey on modeling and simulation practices for teaching power harmonics
Authors: Igual Raúl , Plaza Inmaculada , Marcuello Juan José , Arcega Francisco
Published: June 2018

In recent years the undergraduate engineering curriculum of several areas has started to incorporate the study of harmonic distortion on electrical systems. Several education simulation tools have been developed and investigated, most of them a short time ago. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is not any literature review on this topic. In this work, we present for the first time a systematic survey on educational tools to model and simulate the effect of power harmonics on industrial electrical networks. As a result, several improvement aspects have been identified and recommendations and implications for future research have been provided. For that, a retrospective study has been accomplished, showing a growing trend toward simulation and modeling. The key teachers’ perceptions to incorporate these practices are the ease of the teaching‐learning process and the importance of modeling and simulation in the industry. The main research challenge is the conduction of integral assessments that comprise both tools’ quality and use experience, and their contribution to achieve learning outcomes. Statistical tests should be used to validate the academic results obtained. This is a major challenge, since only a few of the existing studies incorporate such tests. Other implications for future research refer to the involvement of a higher number of students in the evaluations and the use of free software in the development of the applications.
A classroom‐based simulation‐centric approach to microelectronics education
Authors: Dickerson Samuel J. , Clark Renee M.
Published: June 2018

Introductory courses in microelectronic circuits are integral components to electrical and computer engineering undergraduate curriculums. The nature of the material is well‐suited for the incorporation of simulation tools to enhance student understanding of core concepts. SPICE is an electrical circuit simulation tool that has been widely adopted for industrial applications and education. In many instances, engineering instructors have used SPICE‐based simulation tools for homework problems, laboratory exercises, and course projects. Although generally accepted as beneficial to electronics education, the use of SPICE simulation tools is typically restricted to these types of assignments and not heavily used for classroom activity. In this paper, we present a novel method for incorporating SPICE simulation tools into the classroom. Specifically, in a summer 2017 microelectronics course, we used simulation tools for all aspects of the course, incorporating simulation into lecture, in‐class active learning, as well as assignments, and projects. To evaluate this approach, we carried out a rigorous, comprehensive study of this pedagogical approach on student learning, and perspectives using a variety of direct and indirect assessment methods. The results across all measures showed substantial benefits for students to using this methodology and positive responses to the active learning. Beyond microelectronics and other electrical and computer engineering courses, this approach can be applied to other STEM courses where complex systems are studied and simulation tools for these systems are readily accessible to students.
Effects of interactive computer simulation and animation (CSA) on student learning: A case study involving energy, impulse, and momentum in rigid‐body engineering dynamics
Authors: Ha Oai , Fang Ning
Published: June 2018

This paper describes the development and assessment of computer simulation and animation learning modules that involve energy, impulse, and momentum in rigid‐body engineering dynamics. The assessment results show that the group‐average learning gain increases from less than 23% in the comparison group to more than 60% in the intervention group.
Assessing Shiny apps through student feedback: Recommendations from a qualitative study
Authors: González José A. , López Mireia , Cobo Erik , Cortés Jordi
Published: June 2018

Teaching statistics has benefited from Java applets, the successful technology that appeared in the late 90s and which allowed real interactivity on an Internet browser. Combining dynamic functionality with the web provides an inspirational complement to the contents of many subjects in undergraduate statistics courses, especially for active learning activities. Since Java applets are becoming obsolete, we explore a different technology based on R (currently a popular statistical language) and Shiny, which is a web framework for developing interactive applications inside the R environment. Although the pedagogical value of these tools has been implicitly accepted so far, our aim is to consider the students' perspective while investigating more suitable means to accompany the use of apps in statistics. We conducted a qualitative study in which we tested 10 of our applications and collected student opinions through questionnaires and regular meetings. Our conclusions indicate that the students view these resources positively, although they demand more support, just enough to facilitate both getting started and using the tools effectively. In addition, programming in R is surely more accessible and satisfying for statistics lecturers than other languages and, consequently, implementing instructional activities can be specially tailored by the teacher.
Numerical methods to biosystems and food engineering students: Hands‐on practices and cross‐disciplinary integration
Authors: Rabi Jose A. , Caneppele Fernando L.
Published: June 2018

While virtualization has supported many engineering sectors, it remains underexplored in agroindustrial engineering. Accordingly, hands‐on activities in numerical methods have been proposed to food and biosystems engineering students at a didactic computational laboratory. As those learning‐by‐doing tasks refer to agroindustrial problems, integration with forthcoming disciplines has been achieved and pedagogical ethos has indeed been promoted.
A model parameter estimation method using Mathematica© applied to transient chemical engineering processes
Authors: Mejri Sabrine , Binous Housam , Mahgoub Kamal , Bellagi Ahmed
Published: June 2018

In the present paper, we apply a new approach, based on mainly two built‐in functions of the computer algebra Mathematica©, in order to estimate the parameters of several models that describe various transient (i.e., time‐dependent) chemical engineering processes. These models usually consist of either a set of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) or partial differential equations (PDEs). Basing on experimental data, it is possible to obtain, both readily and accurately, estimates of the values of the parameters involved in such models by adopting the proposed methodology. We illustrate the approach with three case studies, all related to chemical reactors. Actual experimental data, collected by senior students at King Fahd University of Petroleum & Minerals during their core laboratory course (i.e., Chemical Engineering Lab II or CHE 409) are used in the first two case studies: (1) response to a tracer input of three continuous stirred‐tank reactors in series and (2) saponification reaction of ethyl acetate in a batch reactor. In the first case study, the residence time distribution and the mean residence time in each reactor are deduced from the set of gathered data. Reaction order and rate constant are estimated from the experimental findings in the second case study. A more advanced situation, involving the solution of the advection–diffusion equation applied to a tubular micro‐reactor, is considered in the third case study. Data were collected, as part of a Ph.D. research of S. Mejri, using an experimental set‐up at Energy Intensified Reactor Engineering Lab at the University of Warwick, U.K. Here, we obtained an estimate of the relevant dimensionless number namely, the Péclet number.
Teaching optimization of manufacturing problems via code components of a Jupyter Notebook
Authors: Suárez Andres , Alvarez‐Feijoo Miguel A. , Fernández González Raquel , Arce Elena
Published: June 2018

The Degree in Mechanical Engineering combines knowledge and skills of the academic STEM disciplines (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The teaching of the STEM subjects must give prominence to the association of the physical, chemical, and mathematical concepts with the real world. The Jupyter Notebook can be defined as a scientific interactive framework. They can contain text, mathematical equations, interactive graphs, and videos. It allows creating a workspace for watching and playing with the concepts to be learned. Because of their didactic usefulness and easy divulgation, they are highly recommended as a learning environment. In the present work, there are reflected the experiences of using interactive Jupyter Notebook in virtual laboratory sessions within a 4th year subject of Mechanical Engineering related with manufacturing processes. Students' judgments on the efficacy of this resource were evaluated. The results showed that students are in agreement on the effectiveness of using Jupyter notebooks as a teaching‐learning tool.
Personalization of engineering education with the mixed reality mobile applications
Authors: Tumkor Serdar
Published: June 2018

Geometric visualization, the spatial perception of problems, and geometric reasoning are always considered essential skills for an engineering student. Although the student can learn geometric visualization eventually, some students with the missing visualization skills cannot follow the instructions to solve the engineering problems. Immersive mixed reality (MR) technologies have been used by the author to help students with object visualization problems. MR technologies virtually project the objects and allow students observing three dimensional (3D) representation of two dimensional (2D) sketches in front of them, while also rotating the virtual model as they wish. These educational mobile applications have been tested in engineering drawing classes and overall improvement of student visualization skills has been reported. In this study, the research question is if some students benefit more from the immersive technologies. Some students have previous CAD experiences from their high school education or interest in technology as a hobby. Playing video games gives students some visualization skills too. Pre‐ and post‐ mental rotation tests (MRTs) are analyzed along with their pre‐existing educational and video game experiences to evaluate the level of benefits of MR technology in class.
Star Life Cycle and games development projects for conducting the human–computer interaction course: A practical experience
Authors: Farinazzo Martins Valéria , de Paiva Guimarães Marcelo
Published: June 2018

This paper describes an approach to teaching a course in human–computer interaction that is supported by the use of Star Life Cycle methodology and game development projects. This approach aims to increase students’ motivation, commitment, and proactivity during the learning process. The Star Life Cycle methodology was extended to facilitate follow‐up of the projects developed by students and to enable coverage of the whole course. The teacher evaluated the deliverable artifacts that were associated with each activity, thus becoming a central part of the evaluation phase of the methodology as well as the leader of the development. In this paper, a case study is presented in which a mathematical game was defined as a final project for 145 students, who were divided into groups. The viewpoints of both the students involved and their teacher are taken into account in the discussion of the results.
Design and usability of learning objects applied in graphic expression
Authors: Melian‐Melian Juan A. , Martin‐Gutierrez Jorge
Published: June 2018

The application of ICT in the field of teaching has meant that learning objects can be used to fulfill an important role in the student‐centered learning process that is being widely promoted across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). For this study, learning objects were designed as a resource to support teaching and encourage autonomous learning practices in the subject of Graphic Expression belonging to the Architecture Degree. An analysis of their application was performed that involved evaluating the “usability” ratings of students who tested the learning objects. Survey results reveal positive scores were consistently awarded to all three usability components (effectiveness, efficiency, and satisfaction), indicating receptiveness to said learning objects on the part of students. This positive feedback has proven encouraging with regards to continuing with the design and development of new learning objects, and the study of their application in other areas.
Enhancing mechanisms education through interaction with augmented reality simulation
Authors: Wang Ying , Ong Soh Khim , Nee Andrew Yeh Ching
Published: June 2018

Computer simulation has been used pervasively to help students understand deeply and visually the theoretical bases of mechanisms. This paper proposes an AR mechanism education system (ARMES) to provide a tool that can conduct mechanism simulations with high level of interaction, easy modeling, and simulation environment and working on real mechanisms. The system consists of theoretical lecture mode and practical exercise mode. Theoretical lecture mode adopts the basic theories of mechanisms from the book Mechanisms and Machine Theory (MMT) and provides an interactive learning style for users via an interactive tool. Practical exercise mode allows modeling, simulation, kinematical characteristics analysis, dynamic analysis, and synthesis based on the interaction with the information that has been rendered on a real mechanism via the interaction tool. In addition, the modeling is based on markers, making the system easy for novice learners to use. The simulation is based on geometrical concepts, making the geometrical bases of mechanism theories clear for users to understand. The evaluation of the system is conducted with 20 participants and a survey. The results reveal that by exploiting the characteristics of AR, the system is helpful in improving the interaction, visualization, and practicality of the mechanism problems. These features will make the system a powerful tool for the teaching of mechanisms.
On the improvement of the teaching quality and learning effectiveness in the computer organization course through FPGA and modular centered microcomputer design
Authors: Oztekin Halit , Temurtas Feyzullah , Gulbag Ali
Published: June 2018

This manuscript focuses on the results of a project study on the field programmable gate array (FPGA) and modular based microcomputer architecture design for improving the teaching and learning effectiveness in computer organization course and similar courses. The design mentioned in this manuscript is a unique system allowing to students to directly write their program and/or include their own designs. The main objective of this study is to improve the teaching effectiveness in the computer organization course at graduate level via hands‐on learning. The goal of the project is to encourage students to create their unique microcomputer designs since this design has modular structure and the fundamental elements which a simple computer has. Also it is to make appropriate modifications using students’ concerns and the results of project study for computer architecture and organization course for next semesters. To evaluate the improvement of the teaching and learning effectiveness, the students enrolled in the computer organization course in computer engineering department are divided into two groups. A student survey is conducted to provide students with an opportunity to have their views about this methodology at computer organization course. The results of the survey acquired with the probability density distribution function reveal the effectiveness of this methodology with FPGA development environment.
An Optical‐Fog assisted EEG‐based virtual reality framework for enhancing E‐learning through educational games
Authors: Sood Sandeep K. , Singh Kiran D.
Published: June 2018

Virtual reality (VR) combined with cloud computing has become the pioneer to provide e‐learning for making education accessible across the globe. To enhance e‐learning experience, electroencephalography (EEG) based educational games are widely used to improve the cognitive and learning skills of students. This method records the electrical activities of the brain of participating students to enhance prevailed knowledge and experience by using a virtual environment. In the present cloud computing paradigm, VR faces many challenges to adapt EEG‐based educational games for e‐learning due to their intensive demands of low‐delay, optimum bandwidth, and minimum energy consumption. In this paper, an Optical‐Fog assisted EEG‐based virtual reality framework is proposed that uses the resources of the optical network to enhance the e‐learning experience. An EEG‐based VR framework is designed with six modules those are deployed at both Edge‐Fog layer and Optical‐Fog layer in the Optical‐Fog network. In addition, a Software Defined Network (SDN) is used to reduce the delay that improves the Quality of experience (QoE). For simulating the experiment, IFogSim is used to implement both Optical‐Fog‐based and cloud‐based deployment scenarios for playing games. Subsequently, a novel algorithm is proposed for implementing Optical‐Fog‐based module placement strategy. The performance of the framework is evaluated by computing average delay, network usage, and energy consumption. The results show the significant advantages of the optical network for playing EEG‐based games.
Step‐by‐step augmented reality in power engineering education
Authors: Opriş Ioana , Costinaş Sorina , Ionescu Cristina S. , Gogoaşe Nistoran Daniela E.
Published: June 2018

For digital native generations, augmented reality (AR) represents a friendly way to enrich reality with virtual, computer‐generated elements. Considering the students’ proficiency for the use of smartphones, internet and of continuously refreshing applications, AR is very suited for a modern engineering education. In this field, AR supports a better understanding and a thorough learning, while increasing the commitment and the motivation for learning. The paper presents the step‐by‐step approach to the AR technology adopted within the Power Engineering Faculty of the University POLITEHNICA of Bucharest, Romania. Such an approach lets students and teachers time to get used to the change, to adjust the vision of AR implementation according to the results obtained so far and to keep up to the newest available technologies. Based on the Aurasma free platform, augmented information, images, and videos were created to appear in books, presentations, and on experimental units for three laboratories. Within the paper, the way in which AR works, may be directly experienced by the reader, as it was by a group of students and faculty members included in a pilot study. According to their feedback, the use of AR in power engineering education facilitates a better understanding of this complex technical domain, providing new and challenging opportunities to integrate theory with practice and to acquire authentic skills in their professional areas.
Research on the development of an interactive three coordinate measuring machine simulation platform
Authors: Sang Yong , Wang Xudong , Sun Weiqi
Published: June 2018

Lacking of specific experimental equipment that can be observed and manipulated, modern distance network education has disadvantages on some special knowledge points (Mechanical structure and working principle of parts and equipment) which are three‐dimensional and have stronger operability. This problem restricts the development of the modern distance network education. In order to solve this problem, this paper introduces an interactive simulation platform based on virtual reality technology, taking three coordinate measuring machine as a typical example. The three coordinate measuring machine with strong operability is widely used in many fields. This paper introduces the structure and principle of the three coordinate measuring machine simulation platform and explains the motion control mechanism of the components of three coordinate measuring machine by taking the measuring contactor as an example. Three coordinate measuring machine interactive simulation platform adopts technologies such as browser‐based structure, Java3D, virtual reality, and Java Applet to develop a Web3D virtual reality learning environment to accomplish virtual measurement experiments. Students can not only view the mechanical structure of the three coordinate measuring machine from any visual angle, but also accomplish the virtual measurement simulation of machinery parts and manually learn the procedure of measuring complex parts by the three coordinate measuring machine simulation platform. The simulation platform, which has advantages of good interactivity, strong sense of reality, easy updating, and low investment, can meet the needs of numerous students learning online simultaneously, which has significant values in distance education for mechanical students and professional technical workers.
Process mining based approach to performance evaluation in computer‐aided examinations
Authors: Baykasoğlu Adil , Özbel Burcu K. , Dudaklı Nurhan , Subulan Kemal , Şenol Mümin Emre
Published: June 2018

A considerable part of educational systems tends to be online and computer oriented. However, online examination may create some difficulties during the evaluation of student performance. Process mining which arises as a new concept presents various powerful techniques for processing and analyzing different types of data by making use of some advanced information technologies. This paper proposes a novel approach based on process mining for evaluating the performance of students that should follow certain tasks on the computer. The proposed approach is composed of two main phases which are process mining and similarity analysis. Automatic assessment is performed totally in six steps in order to obtain students’ final grades. In addition, cheat control is possible in the last step thanks to the similarity analysis. A real‐life application in an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) course is performed in order to present usefulness, validity and practicality of the proposed approach. Furthermore, to evaluate the performance of the assessment system, we compared the assessment mechanism against instructor. A total of 15 students’ answers belonging to computer‐aided exam are assessed by instructor and the results showed a very good agreement between the automatic assessment system and instructor.
Virtual emulation laboratories for teaching offshore oil and gas engineering
Authors: Zhu Hongjun , Yang Zhi , Xiong Youming , Wang Yongyou , Kang Lu
Published: June 2018

Offshore practical training is extremely challenging for undergraduate students from the point of view of security. In order to create a safe training environment for offshore oil and gas engineering education, three virtual emulation laboratories have been developed. The components, functions, and connections of the emulators are described in this paper. The use of these laboratories and the feeling of students are discussed. It is evident from the evaluation of learning outcomes that using such virtual laboratories is a preferred approach to cultivate the practical skills of undergraduate students more safely and economically. Moreover, the confidence and innovative capability are enhanced significantly.
Innovations in Chinese engineering education with digital technologies: A brief review of recent advances
Authors: Li Sheng
Published: June 2018

Engineering education in China has been under development for a long time, the pace of its development has accelerated in recent years. With the technical breakthrough in the multiple fields such as mobile services, cloud computing, global interactions, and information sharing through social media, both teaching mode and learning mode are gradually changed. This study take a comprehensive investigation into the digital technology related engineering education in China. We explore the primary innovations in Chinese engineering education by introducing new courses, teaching methods, tools, and learning modes.
Modeling and simulation practices in engineering education
Authors: Magana Alejandra J. , de Jong Ton
Published: June 2018

Much can be learned from the vast work on the use of computer simulations for inquiry learning for the integration of modeling and simulation practices in engineering education. This special issue presents six manuscripts that take steps toward evidence‐based teaching and learning practices. These six studies present learning designs that align learning objectives, with evidence of the learning, and pedagogy. Here we highlight the main contributions from each paper individually, but also themes identified across all of them. These themes include (a) approaches for modeling‐and‐simulation‐centric course design; (b) teaching practices and pedagogies for modeling and simulation implementation; and (c) evidence of learning with and about modeling and simulation practices. We conclude our introduction by highlighting desirable characteristics of studies that report on the effectiveness of modeling and simulation in engineering education, and with that we provide some recommendations for improving the scholarship of teaching and learning in this field.
Exploring strengths and weaknesses: A case study after developing a remote network lab
Authors: Mateo Sanguino Tomás de Jesús , Fernández de Viana González Iñaki J. , Cortés Ancos Estefanía , Espejo Fernández Jennifer
Published: June 2018

The constrains of traditional hands‐on sessions have expedited R&D in remote laboratories over the past decade, offering higher education an effective way to overcome the high cost of equipment, the limited flexibility of time, or the physical distance to labs, among other shortcomings. Considering these issues, the authors of this work have developed the remote access and management of a classical laboratory—called Ciscolab—dedicated to computer networking practices in Computer Science. The improvements developed have been focused on automatically managing the web‐learning resources for educational purposes, while providing a high level of security to be accessed by trusted students. To this end, this paper describes how an institution's Identity Provider (IdP) was integrated into a Meeting Room Booking System (MRBS) to attain a secure access to the remote equipment and how a maintenance system was automated to perform scheduled backups and reboots of the networking systems. As a main contribution, we developed an analysis methodology to track the students’ work to detect their strengths and weaknesses. In addition, we provide a statistical study after the interaction of a group of students on how the remote lab influenced three different educational areas: learning and motivation (LM), usability and practicality (UP), as well as outcome and feasibility (OF).
Development of IoT applications in civil engineering classrooms using mobile devices
Authors: Chacón Rolando , Posada Hector , Toledo Álvaro , Gouveia Maria
Published: June 2018

This paper presents academic efforts aimed at integrating methodologies associated with the use of mobile devices, the potential of the Internet of Things (IoT), and the role of experimental education in civil engineering. This integration is developed by encompassing the use of sensors, microcontrollers, civil engineering problems, app development, and fabrication. The proposal provides an explorative way of approaching the numerous possibilities that arise in civil engineering when it comes to IoT, automation, monitoring, and control of civil engineering processes. The used tools represent accessible and affordable ways for application in classrooms and in educational laboratories for beginners. The initial explorative approach implies the fusion of three realms: (i) the phenomenology and mathematics of varied civil engineering problems; (ii) the systematic use of digital fabrication technologies and electronic prototyping platforms; and (iii) the creative and visual way of developing codes provided by block‐based development platforms. This integration of perspectives is an attempt of approaching civil engineering mathematics to technology and arts with a rigorous scientific approach. A set of different examples is presented with the corresponding findings in educational terms. These examples are developed in a constructive, scaffolding‐based way and may contribute as a potential alternative in the development of open‐source teaching labs in civil engineering schools.
A comparative study on gamification of the flipped classroom in engineering education to enhance the effects of learning
Authors: Jo Jaechoon , Jun Heeyeon , Lim Heuiseok
Published: June 2018

This study analyzes the effectiveness of adding educational gaming elements into the online lecture system of the flipped classroom as a method to increase participation and interest in online preparation before class. This study held an “understanding sequence” for 20 classes during the 7‐week automation equipment class with 30 s year high school students in Incheon's specialized technical high school as target. After the class, the learning attitude of learners was measured through surveys and in‐depth interviews. As a result, first, it was found that the degree of preparation participation in flip learning using gaming elements had a statistically significant increase from 65.56% to 78.89%, compared with the traditional flip learning using YouTube. Second, comparing the academic achievements showed a diagnostic assessment of 57.44 before applying the gaming elements and 20.17 after the application. However, for summative assessment, the degree after applying gaming elements was statistically higher at 84.52 than the degree before application, which was 78.86. Third, comparing academic achievement with word game results showed no significant correlation, and it is judged that all students were able to enjoy word games, regardless of their grades. Also, when the average word game scores were compared based on students’ grades, mid‐upper level students had statistically significant higher scores than upper level students. Lastly, analysis on the correlation between attitude and word game showed that there is a quantitatively high correlation between the ranking system's competitive spirit and interest. The ranking system increased competitive spirit, as well as interest.
CAD of human resource configuration in project scheduling for construction engineering applications
Authors: Lin Jeng‐Wen , Shen Pu Fun , Lee Bing‐Jean
Published: June 2018

The critical path method is the primary technique for project scheduling in construction engineering. However, the development of enterprises outside Taiwan has recently encountered difficulties in personnel dispatch and human resource acquisition. The management of time schedules without the consideration of human resource configuration may cause enterprises to make unrealistic decisions. Hence, the problems of project scheduling with limited human resources have been increasingly attracting attention from construction enterprises. Based on limited human resource configuration, this study uses computer aided design tool with a linear programming method to conduct a project scheduling for the optimal model with minimized costs for construction engineering applications. We find that the programming trial balance can effectively solve the problem of limited human resource configuration and compute the lowest construction costs. Specifically, the lowest cost obtained from the programming solution is RMB 25,315,752, which is RMB 1,920,632 lower than that in the former solution without resource constraints. Further, the scheduling procedure obtained by using the shortest path method connects with the programming trial balance to resolve the problem by changing the decision variables and relevant data, whose connection is easier and more convenient than under the pure critical path method. Moreover, according to the idea of CDIO engineering education, allowing the students to participate in scientific research project and scientific and technological innovation activities of different levels and types, it improves students’ learning capacity, innovation capability, cooperation capability, and engineering practical ability.
Peer assessment and groups formation in massive open online courses
Authors: Haddadi Lynda , Bouarab‐Dahmani Farida , Guin Nathalie , Berkane Tassadit , Lazib Samia
Published: June 2018

One of the major challenges facing Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) is assessing the learner performances beyond traditional automated assessment methods. This leads to a bottleneck problem due to the massiveness of course participants, especially in the context of problem solving. To tackle this issue, peer assessment has been proposed as an effective method. However, the validity of this process is still under discussion, suffers from a lack of credibility and has many weaknesses, particularly with regards to group formation. This paper develops a new method of peer assessment for MOOCs to improve the accuracy and exactitude of the learner grade. Our proposition is based on three main steps: the formation of learner groups, the assessment and synthesis of the results. First, the group definition process can use different elements of the learner model and enables to build heterogeneous groups. After, each learner is required to grade a small number of peer productions. Finally, a synthesis of the various grades is proposed using both data about the ability to assess of each learner and complexity of problems. To evaluate the proposed peer assessment process, we conducted an experimentation devoted to teaching Software Quality Assurance to beginners with computer science during the first university cycle.
Childhood Sexual Abuse and Brain Development: A Discussion of Associated Structural Changes and Negative Psychological Outcomes
Authors: Edwards Damyan
Published: June 2018

The effects of traumatic exposure have been researched for many years and studies have shown that the parts of the brain affected by sexually traumatic experiences in childhood are also linked to many physical and psychological problems, such as depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, somatic complaints and suicide. Neuroimaging studies have provided a breadth of evidence that childhood sexual abuse is related to structural changes in the brain. Taken together, childhood sexual abuse affects brain development, leading to differences in brain anatomy and functioning that have lifelong consequences for mental health. Several limitations of neuroimaging research on childhood sexual abuse are discussed, including a lack of refined and sensitive neuroimaging measures and problems interpreting results of structural imaged subjects with associated psychiatric conditions. Future, large‐scale studies are warranted to examine the type and severity of the sexual abuse and how each of the levels of childhood sexual abuse contributes to structural and functional changes. Furthermore, future studies are needed to control for comorbid psychiatric conditions in order to disentangle the effects of childhood sexual abuse from psychiatric conditions that damage brain development. © 2018 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

‘Childhood sexual abuse affects brain development, leading to differences in brain anatomy and functioning that have lifelong consequences for mental health’

Key Practitioner Messages

Childhood sexual abuse is linked to observable structural changes in the brain.

These structural changes in the brain are associated with a myriad number of negative psychological effects.

Research is limited in elucidating the role of childhood sexual abuse on brain development, as the bulk of the research has focused only broadly on child maltreatment.
A Small Library of 1,2,3‐Triazole Analogs of CAP‐55: Synthesis and Binding Affinity at Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors
Authors: Rizzi Luca , Gotti Cecilia , De Amici Marco , Dallanoce Clelia , Matera Carlo
Published: June 2018

Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor is emerging as a central regulator in inflammatory processes, as documented by increasing studies reported in the literature. For instance, the activation of this nicotinic receptor subtype in resident macrophages inhibits the production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, thereby attenuating local inflammatory responses, and may open a new window in the treatment of chronic inflammatory disease, such as Crohn's disease, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and asthma. In continuation of our ongoing research for the development of new cholinergic drug candidates, we selected the nicotine derivative CAP55, which was previously shown to exert anti‐inflammatory effects via nicotinic stimulation, as a suitable compound for lead optimization. Through the isosteric replacement of its 3,5‐disubstituted 4,5‐dihydroisoxazole core with a 1,4‐disubstituted 1,2,3‐triazole ring, we could rapidly generate a small library of CAP55‐related analogs via a one‐pot copper(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition. Receptor binding assays at nAChRs led to the identification of two promising derivatives, compounds 4 and 10, worthy of further pharmacological studies.
Super‐resolution Imaging of Amyloid Structures over Extended Times by Using Transient Binding of Single Thioflavin T Molecules
Authors: Spehar Kevin , Ding Tianben , Sun Yuanzi , Kedia Niraja , Lu Jin , Nahass George R. , Lew Matthew D. , Bieschke Jan
Published: June 2018

Oligomeric amyloid structures are crucial therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's and other amyloid diseases. However, these oligomers are too small to be resolved by standard light microscopy. We have developed a simple and versatile tool to image amyloid structures by using thioflavin T without the need for covalent labeling or immunostaining. The dynamic binding of single dye molecules generates photon bursts that are used for fluorophore localization on a nanometer scale. Thus, photobleaching cannot degrade image quality, allowing for extended observation times. Super‐resolution transient amyloid binding microscopy promises to directly image native amyloid by using standard probes and record amyloid dynamics over minutes to days. We imaged amyloid fibrils from multiple polypeptides, oligomeric, and fibrillar structures formed during different stages of amyloid‐β aggregation, as well as the structural remodeling of amyloid‐β fibrils by the compound epi‐gallocatechin gallate.
Bullying and alexithymia: Are there differences between traditional, cyber, combined bullies, and nonbullies in reading their own emotions?
Authors: Wachs Sebastian , Wright Michelle F.
Published: June 2018

Background

Few studies have examined alexithymia, the inability to identify or describe one's emotions, as a possible correlate of bullying.

Aims

To investigate whether there are differences among 12–18 year‐olds in capacity for identifying and/or describing own emotions between traditional bullies, cyber bullies, combined bullies, and nonbullies.

Methods

Data from self‐report questionnaires completed by 897 female and 652 male 12–18 year‐olds (mean 14.5 years, standard deviation 1.68) from Germany and Thailand were analysed using analysis of covariance.

Results

Young people who reported never having bullied others scored lower on the alexithymia scale than traditional, cyber, or combined bullies. There were no differences between traditional and cyber bullies on this measure, but those who operated in both ways had significantly higher alexithymia scores compared with those who bullied in just one modality.

Conclusion

Alexithymia is thus likely to be an important factor to consider in prevention and treatment of bullying. We recommend that prevention programmes include elements to help identify and describe one's own emotions, providing additional support, and “training” if alexithymia is identified. When young people use cyber techniques and traditional bullying methods, it seems likely that they will have greatest need in this respect.