Commutants of von Neumann Modules, Representations of B^a(E) and Other Topics Related to Product Systems of Hilbert Modules

We review some of our results from the theory of product systems of Hilbert modules. We explain that the product systems obtained from a CP-semigroup in a paper by Bhat and Skeide and in a paper by Muhly and Solel are commutants of each other. Then we use this new commutant technique to construct product systems from E_0-semigroups on B^a(E) where E is a strongly full von Neumann module. (This improves the construction from a paper by Skeide for Hilbert modules where existence of a unit vector is required.) Finally, we point out that the Arveson system of a CP-semigroup constructed by Powers from two spatial E_0-semigroups is the product of the corresponding spatial Arveson systems as defined (for Hilbert modules) in a paper by Skeide. It need not coincide with the tensor product of Arveson systems.Comment: To appear in Proceedings of ``Advances in Quantum Dynamics'', Mount Holyoke, 200

The impact of interactive, computerized educational modules on preclinical medical education

Interactive computerized modules have been linked to improved retention of material in clinical medicine. This study examined the effects of a new series of interactive learning modules for preclinical medical education, specifically in the areas of quiz performance, perceived difficulty of concepts, study time, and perceived stress level. We randomly allocated 102 medical student volunteers into control and experimental groups. All participants studied selected anatomical and physiologic concepts using existing material (lecture notes, textbooks, etc.), while those in the experimental groups used the new interactive modules as well. All participants completed a quiz to test their knowledge of the assigned concepts and a survey to assess their subjective experiences in studying with the modules. We found a trend toward higher quiz scores in the experimental group relative to the control group, though it did not reach statistical significance ( P = 0.31). Perceived concept difficulty was significantly reduced among those who studied with the modules ( P < 0.001), and the number of hours spent studying the concepts was significantly increased ( P = 0.028). Of those who used the modules, 83% rated them as “very helpful” or “extremely helpful.” No significant differences existed between participants' reported stress levels during the course of the study ( P = 0.44). Our data suggest that medical students may learn more effectively and feel less intimidated by difficult concepts when interactive modules supplement traditional instruction. Anat Sci Ed 1:247–251, 2008. © 2008 American Association of Anatomists.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/61447/1/55_ftp.pd

Platform And Methodology For Teaching Design Of Hardware

An instructional platform has been developed that allows rapid prototype of network packet processing functions in hardware. This platform, called the Field Programmable Port Extender (FPX), enables engineering students to rapidly prototype and implement components for use in an Internet router or firewall