Applications of Wireless Communication Systems for use in Avionics

[from Introduction] Improvements in the aerospace industry are requiring more diverse applications of wireless communication devices. Avionics requires lightweight systems that can maintain efficacy while under varying conditions. Since there are both advantages and disadvantages when using certain components in specific conditions, it is paramount to choose the correct implementation respective to the desired results

Establishing a Fall Harvest Window for Switchgrass Biomass Based on Optimum Decline of Phosphorus and Potassium Levels in Shoots

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) is a perennial grass that remobilizes nutrients during senescence and is being used as biomass for cellulosic ethanol production. Phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) are removed in harvested biomass and replenished through additions of fertilizer. Identifying the appropriate harvest window in a one-cut system based on the remobilization of nutrients can be economically beneficial for biomass producers. The primary objective of this research was to determine if a one-cut harvest can be executed earlier in the fall based on the remobilization of P and K from stems and leaves to crown and roots of plants. Better harvesting conditions and reduced nutrient removal rates are potential benefits of earlier harvest. This project consisted of three parts, evaluating: (1) P and K levels in shoots and whole plants of Alamo and Kanlow cultivars, (2) P and K levels in shoots of upland and lowland switchgrass varieties, and (3) Effects of earlier harvest on yield. Twelve varieties, including ‘Alamo’ and ‘Kanlow’ cultivars, were planted in Knoxville, TN in 2007. Eight of these varieties were planted in Springfield, TN. Above and belowground samples were collected throughout the fall and analyzed for P and K concentrations. No significant declines of P and K were observed in stems and leaves from early October through November. Levels of P and K in leaves, stems, and panicles fluctuated during the fall season; however, final levels were similar in all tissues. Based on these changes in aboveground biomass, the harvest window could begin as early as mid-September. Data suggested that P and K in Alamo and Kanlow followed similar patterns through the fall, without significant declines in shoots. This is confirmed by data from whole plants, which showed no significant increases in P and K in crowns and roots. Levels of P and K in varieties of upland and lowland switchgrass did not differ and followed patterns observed in Alamo and Kanlow. Yields observed in different varieties did not decline when harvested as early as mid-September. Based solely on this study, it is not necessary to delay harvest and could take place as early as September

Muted Group Theory: Granting a Voice to the Voiceless Through Wicked

Undergraduate Performing Arts- Theatr

Great Libraries Open Doors: Collaborating with Career Services to Support Library Employees at James Madison University

Supporting the career development of your library faculty and staff can help you retain highly qualified employees and develop your next leaders. In 2017, the presenters’ university library embraced a new initiative to support our employees in their career goals. Through a partnership with the university Career & Academic Planning office, the mid-sized academic library developed and implemented an immersive program focused on the participants’ career goals. The blended program included self-assessments, 360-degree feedback, expert panels, informational interviews, networking strategies, resume reviews, and interview practice during in-person class sessions and online. This poster provides details about the program objectives, curriculum, and costs, as well as participant characteristics, evaluations, and outcomes based on the two program cohorts to date. Findings include the positive impact of confidential discussion within the cohort, the relative benefit of each of the activities included in the program, and participant report of post-program successes and challenges after 6 months and one year

The Digital Filing Cabinet: Using Web-2 Technologies To Collaborate, Create, And Manage Student Information

This paper discusses the development and piloting of a digital filing system. It promotes the idea of the paperless office or teaching space of the future. This is a tool to improve efficiency, accountability and collaboration when managing data. This system allows you to have access to all your records wherever you are. It allows joint authoring and input of data. Teachers, managers and students, who need to store and manage important data, can customize the toll o meet their needs. It supports a vision of a learning community of the future where all the needed information is right at your fingertips where ever you are working. Key players can access records over the web at any time or place. There is also a stand-alone version on the desktop when you are not connected to a network. The system is designed to improve efficiency and effectiveness of staff. This paper documents the participatory action research model used in the development and evaluation of the system in which an ICT specialist and an educator worked collaboratively over two years to trial and pilot the system. This system is currently being applied in a tertiary setting, managing a course that runs over three campuses. The technology and principles of this interactive web-based student management system can be used in school settings for digital portfolios, managing assessment records or office settings for data management

I Hate Marking: An innovative use of technology to ease the Marking Day Blues

“I hate marking” reflects the feelings of many educators when faced with large piles of work to assess. This paper discusses the challenges and tensions in the assessment process, and considers ways of improving it, such as accommodating the learning styles of all stakeholders and incorporating technology. Two case studies are presented that include examples of how technology can be used in the assessment process to improve efficiency, streamline the administrative processes, and support the learning styles of students. The development of e-marking rubrics, podcasts and vodcasts are described as innovative ways to promote effective teaching and learning practices. Although these strategies are trialed in a tertiary setting, the methodology and technologies used can be adapted for any educational setting

Spirit of Africa - Liz Lane (chamber orchestra version)

'Spirit of Africa' was commissioned by the Cheltenham Festival and first performed by the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus, Maureen Brathwaite and BackBeat Percussion, conductor Gavin Carr, at Cheltenham Town Hall on 12 July 2012. This version for SATB choir, soprano soloist and chamber orchestra was first performed by the UWE Singers and Chamber Choir at the High Sheriff's Concert, Bristol Cathedral, 13 June 2013.'Spirit of Africa' was originally composed as a companion piece for 'African Sanctus' by David Fanshawe, who received an honorary doctorate from the University of the West of England in 2009. With words specially written by Jennifer Henderson, it is inspired by the colours and symbolic meanings of the flags of Egypt, Sudan, Uganda and Kenya, the countries visited by David Fanshawe during his travels recording music for African Sanctus in 1969-1973. The words and music of the five movements trace a journey through the day, with the colour white for daybreak mist, green for morning freshness, red for midday heat, gold for sunset and black for night; each with its own mood and character, hopes and fears.Reviews of the music include the following: "Spirit of Africa is beautifully written for the chorus and soprano soloist, with lovely textures and atmospheric sonorities from the ensemble of piano and percussion. This work deserves to be widely performed by choral societies up and down the country." Richard Blackford, composer and conductor "Liz Lane's Spirit of Africa is a haunting and lovely work, full of simple but effective harmonic shifts and lively rhythms - ideal for the amateur chorus looking for something brand new and approachable to present as a 'pendant' to a bigger work." Gavin Carr, Chorus Master, Bournemouth Symphony Choru