Introducing a variable speed of sound in single-component lattice Boltzmann simulations of isothermal fluid flows

To simulate the hydrodynamics and mixing characteristics of chemical reactors by means of a lattice Boltzmann method (LBM), it is essential to consider components with varying molecular weights (and therefore speeds of sound). This option requires modification of the standard equilibrium distribution function and the use of an extended velocity set. In this paper, we show that, for isothermal incompressible single-component non-reactive flows, tuning the speed of sound with a modified equilibrium distribution and an extended velocity set allows for reproducing the proper flow characteristics with strongly reduced errors (compared to LBM simulations on standard lattices). This is done for two isothermal benchmarks, viz. a damped standing pressure wave and a decaying viscous Taylor–Green Vortex. The convergence as a function of the number of lattice nodes used improves substantially for varying values of the speed of sound

Teacher education and professional development for technology integrated teaching

This entry describes the characteristics of professional development programs (PD) to enhance teacher educators’ (teachers of pre-service teachers) knowledge of technology-integrated teaching which subsequently facilitates their effective use of technology in the teaching in initial teacher education institutions. There are challenges with using technology in teaching, but relevant PD can help teacher educators to overcome these challenges for the effective use of technology in teaching. The description is drawn upon data from an intervention study involving designing and handling PD to assist mathematics teacher educators in integrating technology in their teaching and illustrating the characteristics of effective PD for teacher educators in tertiary settings. The entry is organized in five sections. It begins with a description of the importance of technology in higher education followed by an illustration of teacher education that highlights the challenges for technology-integrated teaching. The third section illustrates the characteristics of effective PD for technology integrated teaching in initial teacher educations. The fourth section suggested the characteristics of effective PD programs for teacher educators and implications for preparing pre-service teachers. The conclusion summarizes the findings presented in this entry. Some of the study papers referred to concerned PD programs for school teachers that were included because of their relevance to teacher educators at initial teacher education institutions. The following section highlights the importance of technology in higher education

Sexuality, sexual and reproductive health: an exploration of the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of the Greek-Cypriot adolescents

This study examines the knowledge, attitudes and beliefs of Greek-Cypriot adolescents regarding sexuality, sexual and reproductive health in Cyprus. This is the first study in Cyprus that focuses on these issues. During the study, a survey was administered to a random sample of third grade students (N = 697, Mean age = 14 ± 1 years, 48% males). Descriptive and comparative statistics were primarily used for the data analysis. The results indicated that young Greek-Cypriots have limited knowledge on sexual health issues and that there are gender differences regarding role expectations of sexuality. Thus, in the promotion of healthy sexuality and sexual behaviours among youth, practitioners should include gender and cultural perspectives. Qualitative research is needed to explore in depth how young Greek-Cypriots feel about sexuality and sexual and reproductive health