bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced measurement of high aspect ratio surfaces by applied sensor tilting
Authors: Schuler Alexander , Weckenmann Albert , Hausotte Tino
Published: June 2016

During tactile surface measurements the contact point between probing tip and surface varies depending on the local surface angle. To reduce the resulting measurement deviation on high slopes a probing principle is investigated that applies a dynamic surface dependent sensor tilt. This probing process and the logics for the angle determination have been evaluated by simulation. A test stand based on a nanometer coordinate measuring machine is developed and fitted with a rotation kinematic based on stacked rotary axes. Systematic positioning deviations of the kinematic are reduced by a compensation field. The test stand has been completed and results are presented.
Imaging interference microscope for nanometrology
Authors: Malinovsky Igor , Couceiro Iakyra B. , Franca Ricardo Santos , Lima Â Mauricio S. , Azeredo Carlos L. S. , Almeida Clara M. S. , Von der Weid Jean P.
Published: June 2016

Here we report the development of the primary nanometrology capacity at the National Metrology Institute of Brazil (INMETRO). An interference microscope of the Linnik type has been developed and subjected to optimization and characterization studies. The recording of the fringes is done by an automated CCD system with 2 possible processing approaches: interferometric pattern processing and the phase stepping technique. Current progress in the development of the hardware and software adequate for sub- nanometer resolution of the instrument is reported. A study of systematical errors of the interference microscope has been performed. The instrument is aimed for international key comparisons of step height standards.
Analyses of direct verification data of Rockwell diamond indenters by iterative regression method
Authors: Taakagi Satoshi
Published: June 2016

For the verification of Rockwell diamond indenters exactly compliant to the international definition, an iterative method with the least square circle fitting was introduced. This method was applied to the analysis of verification data obtained with a laser probe 3D profile measurement instrument. The geometry of a Rockwell diamond indenter was verified with the equipment as an example. Conventional analyses on cross sections of an indenter is demonstrated as well as three dimensional analysis of indenter geometry. The analyses on cross sections showed that the technique can be used to express the geometrical parameters described in the definition of CIPM/CCM/WGH properly, whereas three dimensional analysis enables to express the imperfection of geometry with fewer parameters. In addition, this technique can be applicable to determine equivalent geometrical parameters obtained with the optical measurement system currently used at the National Metrology Institute of Japan (NMIJ) to establish the national standard indenters. It is shown that the proposed method describes the geometry of indenter better than currently used method. These results suggest that the uncertainty of the national standard indenter could be improved through this high resolution geometry measurement and the multiple regression analysis NMIJ is using.
Accelerometer transverse sensitivity calibration; validation and uncertainty estimation
Authors: Veldman Christiaan Smith
Published: June 2016

The National Metrology Institute of South Africa (NMISA) has implemented a system to measure the transverse sensitivity of vibration transducers. As a mechanical device, the principle sensing axis of an accelerometer is not 100 % perpendicular to the mounting axis. This gives rise to the effect that the accelerometer will produce an electrical output even when a mechanical input perpendicular to the principle measurement axis is applied. The quantification of this "defect" parameter is of importance when high accuracy acceleration measurements are performed using accelerometers. This paper gives a brief overview of the system developed by the NMISA to measure the transverse sensitivity of vibration transducers. The paper then explores the validation of the system along with the uncertainty of measurement associated with the calibration system.
Investigations for the model-based dynamic calibration of force transducers by using shock excitation
Authors: Kobusch Michael , Eichstädt Sascha , Klaus Leonard , Bruns Thomas
Published: June 2016

Within the scope of the joint research project EMRP IND09 "Traceable dynamic measurements of mechanical quantities", numerous measurements were performed at PTB's 20 kN primary shock force calibration device to investigate and validate the approach of a model-based dynamic calibration of force transducers by using shock excitations. The tests included several strain gauge force transducers of greatly differing structural design, size, weight and mechanical coupling. By looking at a few examples, investigated physical models of the measurement set-up and developed data analysis procedures for parameter identification based on measured shock data are presented and discussed. The models reproduce the dynamic response including the observed modal oscillations of various origins that limit the usable measurement bandwidth. Moreover, these modal oscillations may have an important role for the parameter identification process, which is further discussed. This paper is an extended version of the original contribution to the IMEKO 2014 conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
Uncertainty restrictions of transfer click-torque wrenches
Authors: Brüge Andreas
Published: June 2016

For different types of click-torque wrenches, measurement uncertainty contributions of typical calibration conditions were investigated. Procedures which differ from those given in ISO 6789 were suggested for transfer measurements at calibration facilities for click-torque wrenches in order to improve their reproducibility. Examinations were carried out for influences like lever length, rise time, temperature and humidity.
Estimation of stepping motor current from long distances through cable-length-adaptive piecewise affine virtual sensor
Authors: Oliveri Alberto , Butcher Mark , Masi Alessandro , Storace Marco
Published: June 2016

In this paper a piecewise affine virtual sensor is used for the estimation of the motor-side current of hybrid stepper motors, which actuate the LHC (Large Hadron Collider) collimators at CERN. The estimation is performed starting from measurements of the current in the driver, which is connected to the motor by a long cable (up to 720 m). The measured current is therefore affected by noise and ringing phenomena. The proposed method does not require a model of the cable, since it is only based on measured data and can be used with cables of different length. A circuit architecture suitable for FPGA implementation has been designed and the effects of fixed point representation of data are analyzed.
Mixed baseband architecture based on FBD ΣΔ–based ADC for multistandard receivers
Authors: Lahouli Rihab , Ben-Romdhane Manel , Rebai Chiheb , Dallet Dominique
Published: June 2016

This paper presents the design and simulation results of a novel mixed baseband stage for a frequency band decomposition (FBD) analog-to-digital converter (ADC) in a multistandard receiver. The proposed FBD-based ADC architecture is flexible with programmable parallel branches composed of discrete time (DT) 4th order single-bit Sigma-Delta modulators. The mixed baseband architecture uses a single non-programmable anti-aliasing filter (AAF) avoiding the use of an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit. System level analysis proved that the proposed FBD architecture satisfies design specifications of the software defined radio (SDR) receiver. In this paper, the authors focus on the Butterworth AAF filter design for a multistandard receiver. Besides, theoretical analysis of the reconstruction stage for UMTS test case is discussed. It leads to a complicated system of equations and high digital filter orders. To reduce the digital reconstruction stage complexity, the authors propose an optimized digital reconstruction stage architecture design. The demodulation-based digital reconstruction stage using two decimation stages has been implemented using MATLAB/SIMULINK. Technical choices and performances are discussed. The computed signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the MATLAB/SIMULINK FBD ADC model is equal to at least 75 dB which satisfies the dynamic range required for UMTS signals. Next to hardware implementation with quantized filters coefficients, the authors implemented their proposition in VHDL in a SysGen environment. The measured SNR of the hardware implementation is equal to 74.08 dB which satisfies the required dynamic range of UMTS signals.
Time coordination of standalone measurement instruments by synchronized triggering
Authors: Lamonaca Francesco , Carnì Domenico Luca , Grimaldi Domenico
Published: June 2016

A Hardware Interface (HI) to synchronize the operations of standalone Measurement Instruments (MIs) in the absence of networking has been proposed in the recent literature. The synchronization accuracy achieved is one period of the clock equipping the HI. To improve the synchronization accuracy two solutions can be argued on the basis of the mathematical model of the delay between HIs. The first involves increasing the clock frequency; the second concerns the compensation of the phase delay between HI clocks. In this paper the second solution is adopted in order to: (i) reduce the energy consumption, and (ii) not increase the complexity of the hardware architecture. The phase delay compensation is obtained by introducing a programmable delay line after the HI clocks. The phase delay evaluation and the successive tuning of the delay line are performed in the synchronization phase of the HIs. Once synchronized, each HI is moved to the standalone MI to trigger it according to the common sense of time. During the execution of the measurement procedure, networking is not necessary. Experimental tests validate the correct operation of the upgraded HI architecture and indicate that the achievable synchronization accuracy is a low percentage of the HI clock period.
Dynamic calibration uncertainty of three-axis low frequency accelerometers
Authors: D'Emilia Giulio , Gaspari Antonella , Natale Emanuela
Published: June 2016

In this paper a methodology concerning the static and dynamic calibration of three-axis low-cost accelerometers in the (0 to 10) Hz frequency range is described, to be used for evaluation of existing civil infrastructures.
 Main and cross sensitivities of the accelerometers have been experimentally estimated by means of the matrix sensitivity concept.
The standard deviation of accelerations obtained along all three axes using different calibration data sets in repeatability conditions has been calculated and intended as dynamic calibration uncertainty.
The method has been validated by using reference accelerations accurately realized, in order to evaluate the residual bias error.
Static and dynamic calibration test benches have been used to realize reference accelerations. In order to create a three-axis acceleration field, a mechanical arm is used in static calibration; a rotary device is used in order to test the accelerometers in dynamic conditions.
According to the procedure described in this paper, a great improvement of the low cost accelerometers' metrological characterization could be achieved, especially in dynamic working conditions.
Mathematical modeling of altimeter
Authors: Kislitsyna Irina A , Malykhina Galina F
Published: June 2016

The aim of the survey is to simulate photon altimeter designed for a soft landing on the lunar surface. Simulation of the process of scattering of gamma rays from the lunar surface with a typical composition of the lunar soil was implemented.
Convergence of a finite difference approach for detailed deviation zone estimation in coordinate metrology
Authors: Barari Ahmad , Jamiolahmadi Saeed
Published: June 2016

In order to comprehend an entire surface's deviation zone, infinite measured points are required. Using the common measurement techniques through coordinate metrology, a limited number of surface actual points can be acquired. However, the obtained points would not provide sufficient information to examine the geometry thoroughly. A novel approach to predict surface behaviour via Distribution of Geometric Deviations (DGD) is examined in this paper. The methodology governs the mean value property of the harmonic functions to solve Laplace equation around each measured point. This DGD model can be used to reconstruct surface deviation values at any unmeasured point of the inspected surface based on a limited number of measured points. The convergence of the introduced approach is studied in this paper. A complete approach to implement the developed methodology is described, and the validation process is studied using actual case studies and mathematical functions. This methodology is practical in closed-loop inspection and manufacturing processes to form a scheme for compensating the surface errors during manufacturing process based on the DGD model.
Label free Affinity sensing: application to food analysis
Authors: Scarano Simona , Mariani Stefano , Minunni Maria
Published: June 2016

In this paper real-time, label free sensing principle based on Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) and gravimetric, i.e. Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) are described and some applications to food analysis problems are reported. Affinity receptors are introduced and examples using antibodies, nucleic acid probes and biomimetic receptors i.e. molecular imprinted polymers (MIP) reported. In particualr pesticide, endotoxins, pathogens, Genetically Modified Organism (GMOs) detection and food origin analysis are reviewed.
Magnetic fields influence on sensors with electrical output under sinusoidal excitations
Authors: Medina Nieves , De Vicente Jesús , Robles Jorge
Published: June 2016

This paper describes the magnetic effects studied at CEM in their realization of a primary standard for dynamic force calibration using sinusoidal excitations of force transducers, although they can also affect any sensor with an electrical output mounted on an electrodynamic shaker. In this study the electromagnetic behaviour for the interaction between sensor and shaker or a similar source of magnetic fields is explained and a solution to minimise this interaction is also included.
Pressure gauge calibration applying 0-A-0 pressurization to reference gauge
Authors: Kajikawa Hiroaki , Kobata Tokihiko
Published: June 2016

A calibration method is proposed to improve pressure calibration that uses a pressure gauge as the reference device. The reference gauge is pressurized by a 0-A-0 pressurization procedure, whereas the test gauge can be pressurized through various procedures. The calibration results with this method were consistent with those calibrated against a pressure balance. The method is expected to help develop low-cost pressure calibration systems that are more precise.
Projecting the Impact of the Affordable Care Act Provisions on Accessibility and Availability of Primary Care Providers for the Adult Population in Georgia
Authors: Gentili Monica , Harati Pravara , Serban Nicoleta
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To evaluate how met need for accessibility and availability of primary care among nonelderly individuals in Georgia will be affected by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) over the next 10 years.

Methods. We used a stock-and-flow model to predict the number of available visits from 2013 to 2025, regression models to project needed visits, and an optimization model to estimate met need. The outputs of these models were used to estimate unmet need and the availability and accessibility of primary care.

Results. Our findings showed that the number of primary care providers will increase by 9.2% to 11.7% by 2025 and that the number of needed visits will increase by 20%. Under Medicaid expansion, the percentage of met need will increase from 67% to 80%. Accessibility will improve by 20% under expansion, and availability will decrease by 13% to 19% under expansion.

Conclusions. The ACAs’ provisions will reduce unmet need and positively affect accessibility while reducing availability in some communities. Increased need because of a larger Medicaid population under Medicaid expansion will not be a significant burden on the privately insured population.
Mapping Engagement in Twitter-Based Support Networks for Adult Smoking Cessation
Authors: Lakon Cynthia M. , Pechmann Cornelia , Wang Cheng , Pan Li , Delucchi Kevin , Prochaska Judith J.
Published: June 2016

We examined engagement in novel quit-smoking private social support networks on Twitter, January 2012 to April 2014. We mapped communication patterns within 8 networks of adult smokers (n = 160) with network ties defined by participants’ tweets over 3 time intervals, and examined tie reciprocity, tie strength, in-degree centrality (popularity), 3-person triangles, 4-person cliques, network density, and abstinence status. On average, more than 50% of ties were reciprocated in most networks and most ties were between abstainers and nonabstainers. Tweets formed into more aggregated patterns especially early in the study. Across networks, 35.00% (7 days after the quit date), 49.38% (30 days), and 46.88% (60 days) abstained from smoking. We demonstrated that abstainers and nonabstainers engaged with one another in dyads and small groups. This study preliminarily suggests potential for Twitter as a platform for adult smoking-cessation interventions.
The Effect of an Increased Minimum Wage on Infant Mortality and Birth Weight
Authors: Komro Kelli A. , Livingston Melvin D. , Markowitz Sara , Wagenaar Alexander C.
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To investigate the effects of state minimum wage laws on low birth weight and infant mortality in the United States.

Methods. We estimated the effects of state-level minimum wage laws using a difference-in-differences approach on rates of low birth weight (< 2500 g) and postneonatal mortality (28–364 days) by state and month from 1980 through 2011. All models included state and year fixed effects as well as state-specific covariates.

Results. Across all models, a dollar increase in the minimum wage above the federal level was associated with a 1% to 2% decrease in low birth weight births and a 4% decrease in postneonatal mortality.

Conclusions. If all states in 2014 had increased their minimum wages by 1 dollar, there would likely have been 2790 fewer low birth weight births and 518 fewer postneonatal deaths for the year.
ENHANCING STUDENTS’ READING COMPREHENSION THROUGH KNOW -WANT TO KNOW- LEARNED (KWL) TECHNIQUE
Authors: Hartatik Sri Fatmaning , Putri Emielda Shendita
Published: June 2016

This Classroom Action Research (CAR) aimed at developing the tenth graders’ reading ability in comprehending narrative text by using KWL technique. This research was crucially conducted due to the fact that the results of preliminary study indicated that students faced difficulties in understanding narrative text.  Besides, the English teacher in that particular school elicited that students were less motivated and uncooperative in learning English. The selection of using KWL was based on the findings of previous research  which showed that KWL technique was proven as an effective technique in enhancing students’ ability in learning English. To obtain the data in both cycles, the researchers applied several instruments as questionnaires, observation sheets, field notes, and tests. The findings revealed that KWL technique had improved students’ reading skill, both qualitatively and quantitatively. In term of qualitative, it was proven that the students were more enthusiastic in learning because they had more opportunities to interact one another; besides, the admitted that the experienced a new way of learning English. Similarly, the quantitative data also elicited that 25 out of 27 students had obtained narrative reading scores above the school minimum standard. These findings gave meaningful information for English teachers, who might face similar problem, to try to adopt or adapt KWL technique in their teaching and learning process.
Teachers’ Awareness of the Existence and the Use of Technology to Promote Children’s Literacy Instruction
Authors: Obidike Ngozi , Anyikwa Ngozi , Enemou Joy O
Published: June 2016

This paper examined the awareness of teachers of nursery and primary schools on the existence of the technological resources that could be used to support children's literacy instruction, as well as the use of such technological resources for enriching children's literacy instruction. The study was carried out in Awka Local Government Education Zone in Anambra State, Nigeria. Two (2) research questions guided the study. Five (500) nursery and primary school teachers were selected as the sample for the study using simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire was the instrument used for data collection which was analyzed using mean scores. The findings, among others, were that both the nursery and primary school teachers are able to identify the technological tools that could be used to enhance literacy instruction in children but are not aware of how such resources could be used. Suggestions for improvement were provided.
Differentiating Instruction to Meet the Needs of Diverse Technical/Technology Education Students at the Secondary School level
Authors: Ireh Maduakolam , Ibeneme Ogo T
Published: June 2016

Effective teaching requires fostering success for all students, and to help them become productive, problem-solvers, and self-directed learners. This is more so in Technical/Technology Education where learners do not all learn the same thing in the same way or on the same day. As such, technical education teachers must consider each learner based on needs, readiness, preferences, and interests. This paper gives insights on how to effectively achieve this success in the classroom, through the use of Differentiated Instruction (DI)-an approach that enables teachers to plan strategically as well as provide a variety of options to successfully reach all students.  Differentiated Instruction allows teachers to meet learners where they are and offer challenging and appropriate options for them to achieve success. The paper highlights other areas where this teaching technique could be applied toward students' motivation, engagement, and academic growth. The authors also explain the three elements of the curriculum that can be differentiated: Content, Process, and Products. Other issues concerning the teaching-learning process are also discussed in the paper.
"A GREAT TREE HAS FALLEN": COMMUNITY, SPIRITUAL ECOLOGY, AND AFRICAN EDUCATION
Authors: Ritskes Eric
Published: June 2016

In African communities, the spiritual connections to the land and the Indigenous wisdom used to nurture it have been subjugated by Western development and the Eurocentric knowledges that buttress it. The Indigenous frameworks which inform the daily life of communities as they interact with their environments, have largely been replaced by Western scientific discourses which frame the individual as the primary social unit and which commodify the environment for consumption. This article examines how it may be possible to re-imagine the community in relationship with its environments, especially as it pertains to education in African contexts. In this process, community participation is a necessity and cannot be a sort of superficial bandage solution, but must involve the interrogation of the larger structures and discourses that underpin development and education in Africa. Development and education must meet the needs of the communities in a holistic way; not only in the daily physical sense, but also in terms of spiritual connections, knowledge production, and the valuing of history. This article takes up the example of carbon credit projects, especially those of community forests in Africa, as an example of the way that development in Africa has broken communities and distanced African Indigenous peoples from their sacred knowledge of the land. The article explores what this commodification means for African education and how a critical pedagogy based on Indigenous knowledges might be used to resist and disrupt Western educational discourses.
Providing Staff Development in Teaching Strategies and English Language Conversation at North Pare Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCT) Dioceses Secondary Schools in Tanzania, Africa
Authors: Walsh Thomas
Published: June 2016

The following report evaluates a seminar provided by Walsh through the Bethesda Lutheran Church Tanzanian ministry organization on teaching strategies and conversational English provided at Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCT) secondary schools in the Pare region of Tanzania, Africa.  The staff development included training and support in the use of computer technology available at the schools, donated from the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Mecklenburg, Germany.  The staff development was a follow-up to earlier training sessions provided at the schools in 2006 and 2008.  Description of the seminar planning procedures, curriculum guide, subjects, methodology and project evaluation is presented, along with discussion about the use of technology with participants at the schools.  Recommendations for future delivery and use of the project materials is also discussed.  The seminar curriculum materials were designed to provide Tanzania teachers, with limited resources and teaching methodologies, to engage students more actively in learning and developing problem-solving skills.  It is the intent the seminar experience will provide support for more organizations (e.g., student university internships and church-based sister congregations) as they come on board to support the African Tanzanian communities.  The staff development was provided to teachers at secondary schools representing the Muslim, Maasai, and Christian faiths and cultures.
THE ROLES OF ICT DEVELOPMENT IN OPEN AND DISTANCE EDUCATION: ACHEIVEMENTS, PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES
Authors: Igwe Dickson Ogbonnaya
Published: June 2016

The promises of information and communication technologies (ICT) have driven e-learning in transforming open distance education and thereby advancing the knowledge economy that rested on three arguments: E-learning could expand and widen access to tertiary education and learning; improve the quality of education; and reduce its cost. This article evaluates these three promises based on existing data and evidence. It concludes that the reality has not matched the promises so far in terms of pedagogic innovation. This does not mean that ICT development has not produced any significant positive results in improving the overall learning (and teaching) experience in the institutions and societies where it is implemented. That implies that what will help further to identify the new challenge. ICT development faces will be further research. Obstacles and problems of ICT that could have affected the open educational resource initiatives are yet to be established. The first section of the paper recalls some of the proposed values of e-learning. The second section compares achievements so far and suggests that e-learning could be only at an early stage of realising educational innovation aspirations. The third section highlights the challenges of future developments in e-learning.
Determinants of Preschool Teachers' Attitudes towards Teaching
Authors: KINUTHIA FLORENCE NJERI , Kombo Donald Kisilu , Mweru Maureen
Published: June 2016

This study sought to investigate determinants of pre-school teachers’ attitudes towards teaching in Thika Municipality, Kenya. The concern to stakeholders was the negative attitudes of the pre-school teachers towards teaching. Such a concern called for investigation. To accomplish this task, a descriptive survey design and Ex-post facto design were used. A total of 53 pre-school teachers and 12 administrators participated in the study. A simple random technique and purposive sampling were employed to identify study samples. In addition, questionnaires and interviews were used to collect data. The statistical procedures were carried out using the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS). Qualitative and quantitative techniques were employed in order to analyse the obtained data. The study revealed there were still low levels of training among pre-school teachers, teachers with few years of teaching experience were the ones involved in teaching in the pre-schools and teachers in public pre-schools were more positive towards their job than their colleagues in private schools. Among the recommendations were that pre-school teachers work under the Ministry of Education and an attempt be made to improve the retention level of teachers. Administrators should also work on modalities of motivating their teachers.
The Relevance of Music Education to the Nigerian Educational System
Authors: Olusoji Stephen OluIbukun
Published: June 2016

This paper highlights the importance of music education to the Nigerian educational system. It identifies the prospects, problems and proffered possible solutions to them. In achieving its objectives the study uses ethnographic and qualitative methods with simple percentages for eliciting and collation of data. The paper suggests that the society, the curriculum planners, and the government have much to do so music education is appreciated in Nigeria. It proposes as part of its recommendations that the government provide necessary facilities and personnel for music to thrive as a vocational subject; and that parents and the larger society must become educated on the usefulness of music as a career subject worth pursuing by pupils.
Research as Informal and Mutual Learning: Reflections on Two Feminist Studies in Nigeria.
Authors: Mejiuni Olutoyin
Published: June 2016

Although all research involves knowledge production processes; research activities that explore the real life experiences of adult participants are also learning or educational interactions in and of themselves. This article focuses on the author's reflections on two feminist studies that she carried out in Nigeria that support this position. These educational interactions are reflected in her discussion of the framework on which her studies are based, the context of these studies, the identity politics of participants, and the enhancement and limitations (informal and mutual) learning among many participants and the researcher as a participant-observer.
Beyond Educational Voyeurism: An Analysis of a Ugandan-North American Teacher Partnership Program
Authors: Kelly Philip P , Cordileone Amy
Published: June 2016

This paper examines open responses and journal entries generated by participants in a Ugandan – North American international teacher partnership program.  Teachers comments are analyzed for factors addressing the successful negotiation of both teaching and relationship making across the cultural, pedagogical and political divides that separate them. In the midst of the international teacher partnership program, North American participants raised pedagogical concerns regarding the teacher-centered pedagogy and student passivity as after effects of Uganda’s colonial education system.
COMPARISON OF SUPPORT INTERVENTIONS DURING A BLENDED COURSE FOR EDUCATORS FROM URBAN AND RURAL SETTINGS
Authors: Stoltenkamp Juliet , Kabaka Martha
Published: June 2016

This research focused on the design and delivery of a blended Professional Development (PD) Program for in-service teacher-educators from both urban and rural settings. The overall purpose of the PD Program was to enhance the educators’ Information Communication Technologies (ICT) skills, with emphasis on eTools for supporting teaching-and-learning methodologies. Two groups of teacher-educators undertook the course. A strong facilitation and support approach was maintained throughout the PD Program to encourage self-directed learning. A case study approach was adopted to explore the experiences in the overall implementation and impact of the program. This article reflects on the findings regarding program design and structure; access to resources; impact time management; design of a support structure for the monitoring and evaluation of the program; and educators as self-directed learners using eTools to enhance teaching-and-learning methodologies.
Resistance to Women's Ethnic Narratives in Tanzania: Two Perspectives on Identity
Authors: Darlington Sonja R
Published: June 2016

Two Tanzanian activists, Ruth Meena and Elieshi Lema, resist identification with their local ethnic groups in deference to their identity formation with nationalism and feminism. Both maintain that ethnicity is a politically charged term based on a colonial construct that favors patriarchy and describes all women’s ethnicity generically without questioning their positionality. Meena as a political scientist at the University of Dar es Salaam and Lema as a writer and editor of E & D Publishing, provide evidence for their professional roles having moved beyond ethnic boundaries due to their educational opportunities and the influence of feminist thinking. In the construction of their culture, as activists, scholars, teachers, and writers, they have re-imagined how to live their lives, so that they could actively participate in the struggle for nationhood, gender equality, educational access, economic independence and community development.  Meena and Lema have also demonstrated through their writing of books and articles, the possibility for women to rewrite history with a different emphasis and orientation.
Factors Supporting or Hindering Continuation of a Collaborative Professional Development Program for Communicative Language Teaching
Authors: Gendole Anto Arkato , Coenders Fer , Voogt Joke , Pieters Jules
Published: June 2016

In this study, the continued use of core elements of a collaborative professional development program (CPDP) for communicative language teaching (CLT) after program termination is reported. A cross-sectional design using quantitative and qualitative data collection was applied. Teachers, facilitators and management perceived CPDP relevant and teachers appreciated the program elements. Teachers who participated in the development and implementation sessions of CPDP tended to apply CPDP elements better than teachers who merely used CPDP elements. Teacher collaboration was limited. Facilitators and management offered little support for teachers after the termination of the CPDP. The study recommended embedding CPDP in the English language department system as an in-service professional development program.
Welcome to Journal of Modern Materials
Authors: Bahishti Adam A.
Published: June 2016

I am inviting you to submit your original research articles to the Journal of Modern Materials and hope that with time Journal of Modern Materials will become a premier publication for materials research worldwide. This goal can be achieved with the cooperation of our editorial team, reviewers, and authors to publish such a high-quality original research that attracts attention. We warmly welcome authors to submit their research papers in the inaugural issue of this journal that is truly international in the scope which aims to publish manuscripts from all over the world.
Formulation and Evaluation of Sustained Release Verapamil Hydrochloride Using Natural Polymers
Authors: Ramu B. , Kumar S. Ullas , Srikanth G. , Rajkamal Bigala
Published: June 2016

The aim of the present study was to develop sustained release formulation of Verapamil Hydrochloride to maintain constant therapeutic levels of the drug for over 12 hrs. Various grades of HPMC polymers, Guar gum, and Xanthum gum were employed as polymers. Verapamil Hydrochloride dose was fixed as 120 mg. Total weight of the tablet was considered as 400 mg. Polymers were used in the concentration of 60, 120 and 180 mg concentration. All the formulations were passed various physicochemical evaluation parameters and they were found to be within limits. Whereas from the dissolution studies it was evident that the formulation (F6) showed better and desired drug release pattern i.e.,96.10 % in 12 hours containing Guar gum polymer in the concentration of 180mg. It followed zero order release kinetics. For the optimized formulation alcohol effect has been studied by using various concentrations of alcohol in dissolution medium. As the concentration of alcohol increased the sustained action of polymer was decreased. Hence it was concluded that alcohol has significant effect on drug release pattern.
Efficiency Analysis of Financial Management Administration of ABC Hospital using Financial Ratio Analysis Method
Authors: Jonny Jonny
Published: June 2016

This paper evaluated the financial performance of ABC hospital within the period of 2012 to 2013. To overcome the problems faced by the hospital related to how to measure and presented its financial performance in which financial ratio analysis was undertaken. These financial ratios were employed to measure the liquidity, assets utilization, long-term solvency and profitability of the hospital. This analysis was conducted in order to prove whether the hospital has been managed efficiently or not in accordance to Indonesian Hospital Quality Accreditation as stated in its clause on Administration Standard No. 5 Parameter No. 3 that the hospital financial management shall be conducted in appropriate way in order to guarantee its operation efficiently. The result showed that overall financial performance of ABC hospital increased considerably in those two years of the analysis. A significant change was occurred on its solvency ratio which was decreased from -2% to -8%, indicating its loose dependency due to its founder’s strong financial support. Therefore, based on this favorable result, the hospital was regarded to have efficient hospital management and thus, together with other standard fulfillment, it was accredited by Indonesian Health Ministry.
KITAB AL-SANĪ AL-MAṬĀLIB: INTERKONEKSI NAHWU DAN TASAWUF
Authors: Zakiyah Zakiyah
Published: June 2016

This paper reviews a book entitled al-Sanī al-Maṭālib written by Kiai Nur Iman Mlangi Yogyakarta. This book is written in Arabic containing an interconnection between Arabic grammar and mysticism. This book is very interesting due to the fact that those two knowledges have its own rules. In addition, there is only small number of authors who had written with the same model, to name one of them is Shaikh Abdul Qadir bin Ahmad al-Kuhany with his work entitled Manniyat al-Fāqir al-Munjarid wa Sayrat al-Murīd al-Mutafarrid”. The book al-Sanī al-Maṭālib was predicted written in the late 18s Century or the beginning of 19s century, it is based on the period of Kiai Nur Iman’s life in which around the mid of 18s century. The grammatical rule of Arabic in this book was explained theo­sophically, it is started with the explanation of tauhid (oneness) as the basic learning for Muslim, followed by the meaning of each Arabic rule in mystical aspect.

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Tulisan ini mereview buku yang berjudul al-Sanī al-Maṭālib yang ditulis oleh Kiai Nur Iman Mlangi Yogyakarta. Buku ini ditulis dalam bahasa Arab yang me­ngandung interkoneksi antara ilmu Nahwu (tata bahasa Arab) dengan mis­tisis­me. Buku ini sangat menarik karena kenyataan bahwa kedua pengetahuan tersebut memiliki aturan sendiri-sendiri. Selain itu, sangat sedikit penulis yang menulis dengan gaya seperti itu. Salah satunya adalah Syaikh Abdul Qadir bin Ahmad al-Kuhany dengan karyanya yang berjudul Manniyat al-Fāqir al-Munjarid wa Sayrat al-Murīd al-Mutafarrid. Buku al-Saniy al-Muthalib diduga telah ditulis pada akhir abad ke-18 atau awal abad ke-19, menurut periode kehidupan Kiai Nur Iman yaitu sekitar pertengahan abad ke-18. Aturan Nahwu dalam buku ini dijelaskan secara teosofi yang dimulai dengan penjelasan mengenai tauhid (keesaan Tuhan) sebagai kajian dasar bagi orang Islam, yang diikuti dengan makna dari masing-masing aturan bahasa Arab dalam aspek mistiknya.
KEZUHUDAN ISA AL-MASIH DALAM KITAB AL-ZUHD WA’L-RAQĀ’IQ DAN AL-ZUHD
Authors: Muhammad Hasyim
Published: June 2016

The ascetisc of Isa al-Masih is the most polular model in strengtening the ascetism doctrines among tasawwuf experts in clasical periods. At least it was depicted in clasical sunnite sufism that narrated the messages and stories about the escatism of Isa al-Masih. Above all, the more valid source, i.e. al-Qur’an and al-hadits are more than enough to strengten the doctrine of ascetism for the tasawwuf experts (sufi). Ascetism of Isa al-Masih was conformable to the concept of ascetismof the sufi, which meant that have nothing and belong to nothing (lā yamliku shaian walā yamlikuhu shaiun). Ascetism is not only merely spiritual position which is depicted in tasawuf, but ascetisme in this context is the spiritual it self.

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Asketisme Isa al-Masih merupakan model yang paling populer dalam mem­perkuat doktrin asketisme di kalangan ahli tasawuf dalam periode klasik. Setidaknya itu digambarkan dalam sufisme sunni klasik yang menarasikan pesan dan kisah mengenai asketisme Isa al-Masih. Di luar itu semua, sumber yang lebih valid, yaitu al-Qur’an dan hadits lebih dari cukup untuk memperkuat doktrin asketisme bag para ahli tasawuf (sufi). Asketisme Isa al-Masih sesuai dengan konsep asketisme sufi yang artinya tidak memiliki apa-apa dan bukan milik siapa-siapa (lā yamliku shaian walā yamliku shaiun). Asketisme bukan sekedar posisi spiritual yang digambarkan di dalam tasawuf, tetapi asketisme dalam konteks ini adalah spiritual itu sendiri.
MODEL PENYELESAIAN KONFLIK DI LEMBAGA ADAT
Authors: Kamaruddin Kamaruddin
Published: June 2016

So far, there is a claim that the conflict resolution conducted by tradition institution is mediation, but in some extend it showed the differences in principle and procedure. Based on the argument this article has the purposes to know any conflict frequently broken among Aceh community, the patterns of cooperation of the tradition institutions, and to know the most dominant institution in resolving conflict. Applying qualitative method, it is revealed that tradition institutions took a very important part in resolving confling in Aceh society. Eventhough all elements of the tradition institutions are involved in conflict resolution but in the processes of conflict resolution in gampong level, keuchik has a very important and strategic role.

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Selama ini muncul klaim bahwa praktek penyelesaian konflik yang dilakukan oleh lembaga adat adalah mediasi tetapi pada tataran realitasnya menunjukkan ada perbedaan dalam prinsip dan prosedur yang selama ini dilakukan. Oleh karena itu tulisan ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui macam-macam konflik yang sering terjadi dalam masyarakat Aceh dan melihat pola kerjasama yang dilakukan lembaga adat dalam menyelesaikan konflik serta siapakah diantara mereka yang paling domi­nan dalam menyelesaikan konflik. Dengan mengguna­kan metode penelitian kuali­tatif ditemukan bahwa lembaga adat telah me­main­kan peran yang sangat signifi­kan dalam menyelesaikan konflik di kalangan masyarakat Aceh. Meskipun semua unsur lembaga adat terlibat dalam me­nyelesaikan konflik tetapi dalam proses penyelesaian konflik untuk tingkat gampong, keuchik menduduki peran yang sangat penting dan strategis.
SEGREGASI ETNO-RELIGIUS: UPAYA RESOLUSI KONFLIK DAN PEMBANGUNAN PERDAMAIAN
Authors: Mustain Mustain
Published: June 2016

Ethno-religious segregation in Lombok, especially in Mataram existed because of population migration and the implication of the implemenation of the policy on the politic of Karang Asem Hinduism Mataram Kingdom that dominated this area for more than one century (1670-1820). The policy subjected to the community made the fixed social stratification in the context of community settlement, and generated two different groups, the Balinesse-Hiduism as the noble and Sasak-Muslim as the lower-level society members. Applying qualitative method and conflict study approach it was revealed that historical legacy had been become the social-psychological barrier for the two communities for making open and trustful interaction.

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Segregasi etno-religius di wilayah Lombok, khususnya di Mataram selain terjadi karena migrasi penduduk, juga merupakan implikasi dari penerapan kebijakan politik kerajaan Hindu Karangasem Mataram yang menguasai wilayah ini selama 1,5 abad, yaitu dari tahun (1670-1820 M). Kebijakan itu antara lain dalam bentuk mempertahankan stratifikasi sosial masyarakat dalam pemukiman, sehingga melahirkan komunitas Bali-Hindu sebagai kelompok bangsawan dan komunitas Sasak-Islam sebagai kelompok rakyat kelas bawah. Melalui metode kualitatif dan pendekatan kajian konflik tampak bahwa warisan sejarah telah menjadi hambatan psikologis-sosial kedua komunitas untuk berinteraksi secara terbuka dan saling mempercayai.
Vision-based measurement systems for static and dynamic characteristics of overhead lines
Authors: Kohut Piotr , Holak Krzysztof , Dworakowski Ziemowit , Mendrok Krzysztof
Published: June 2016

In the paper, optical-based measurement methods for calculating the deflection and vibration of overhead lines are presented. The authors describe the state of the art in the field of non-contact examination of static and dynamic overhead transmission line characteristics, and propose concepts of vision-based measurement systems for both static and dynamic states of a structure. The system devoted to static measurements is based on a digital SLR camera and image-processing software used for the acquisition and interpretation of data. The digital image correlation method, implemented in Wiz2D software, is applied to compute the displacement of the transmission line cable with respect to a known baseline position. Dynamic characteristics of the structure are obtained using a stereo-vision system consisting of two high-speed digital cameras. Corresponding points in two video sequences of the vibrating cable are tracked using TEMA software. 3D positions in a camera frame of reference and displacements are computed using a 3D reconstruction method. The paper describes two series of experiments conducted on a lab setup and the obtained results are examined and discussed.
A Lepra Mora no Morro: O “refúgio” de leprosos em Anápolis, Goiás, Brasil (1930–1970)
Authors: Tavares Giovana Galvão , Peixoto Josana de Castro , Campos Dulcinea Maria Barbosa , Luz Janes Socorro da , Monteiro Rogério Seabra
Published: June 2016

Guardada as devidas restrições de uma pesquisa em andamento, este artigo tem por objetivo apresentar a formação e consolidação do ‘refugio’ dos leprosos em Anápolis. Para a realização da pesquisa foram percorridos os seguintes passos: coleta e análise de relatos orais, imagens fotográficas e documentos de arquivos individuais e institucionais, públicos e privados. O leprosário instituído em Anápolis não fazia parte da rede de colônias existente no Brasil, ele, nos anos de 1930, foi construído pela Sociedade São Vicente de Paulo, por meio de doações públicas e privadas, posteriormente, anos de 1940, foi desativado com a criação da Colônia Santa Marta em Goiânia. Nos anos de 1950 o refúgio surgiu e passou a agregar os doentes fugitivos das colônias e, durante as décadas seguintes, os residentes sobreviveram de doações (alimentos, roupas, etc) feitas pela sociedade local que as entregavam no Morro para evitar que eles fossem para a cidade. Por esse motivo grupos em situação de miséria residentes em Anápolis se agregaram aos leprosos e constituíram um território doente e miserável, abandonado pelo poder público, ficando a mercê dos cuidados de grupos que muitas vezes eram responsáveis por conflitos existentes no local.Palavras chave: Território; Lepra; Refúgio; Lugar.