Exer-learning games: Transferring hopscotch from the schoolyard to the classroom

In this paper we present the idea of Exer-learning games - integrating the element of exercise into serious games. The combination of motion, learning and playing is assumed to facilitate intrinsic motivation and learning achievements. For the application of exer-learning games, the concept of HOPSCOTCH is introduced that is inspired by the popular childrens game. Two demonstrators of this concept have been realized and evaluated: HOPSCOTCHpad and HOPSCOTCHmobile. First results show a positive feedback from scholars and teachers. Finally, future directions for our research on HOPSCOTCH are described that could model research on exer-learning games as well as their application in the classroom

The role of mechanically activated area on tribocorrosion of CoCrMo

Co-Cr-Mo alloys are among the most used alloys for orthopedic implants because of their excellent corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, biocompatibility. Although there is extensive literature on corrosion properties of Co-Cr-Mo alloys, fewer articles are focused on the synergistic effect of corrosion and wear in a simulated physiological solution. It is generally assumed that the current density measured during wear conditions for passive materials comes from the active area. However, there are no clear data supporting this statement. The current article correlates electrochemical measurements with the active area generated during sliding wear tests. Open circuit potential and current measurements, potentiodynamic scans, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy were carried out on samples under static and sliding wear conditions. These measurements showed the importance of the active area, where the current coming from the surface not being abraded is negligible. Finally, by combining the sliding wear and electrochemical tests, the synergistic effect of wear and corrosion was characterized for this alloy, documenting the metal carbide's detachment from the cobalt alloy matrix, which leads to a significant increase of total wear volume. © 2013 The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society and ASM International.Peer Reviewe