bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishing a metrological infrastructure and traceability of electrical power and energy in the R. Macedonia
Authors: Arsov Ljupco , Cundeva-Blajer Marija
Published: June 2016

In the paper the current state and the establishment of metrology infrastructure and traceability of the measurements of electrical power and energy, i.e. the creation of conditions for unity of power and energy measurements, international comparability of the results and measurements which insure fair trade and consumers' protection are elaborated. Beside the legal, also other aspects are discussed, like the needs for calibration and verification in the field of electrical power and energy, participants in the chain of measurements and trade with electrical energy, the organization, the infrastructure, the methods and the systems of calibration and verification. An organization and certain documents which will contribute to the establishment of a system in accordance with the international standards and practice, as well as traceability and fair trade, are proposed.
Machine integrated telecentric surface metrology in laser structuring systems
Authors: Schmitt Robert , Pfeifer Tilo , Mallmann Guilherme
Published: June 2016

The laser structuring is an innovative technology used in a broad spectrum of industrial branches. There is, however, a market trend to smaller and more accurate micro structures, which demands a higher level of precision and efficiency in this process. In this terms, an inline inspection is necessary, in order to improve the process through a closed-loop control and early defect detection. Within this paper an optical measurement system for inline inspection of micro and macro surface structures is described. Measurements on standards and laser structured surfaces are presented, which underline the potential of this technique for inline surface inspection of laser structured surfaces.
Development of Nano Particle Sizing System Using Fluorescence Polarization
Authors: Hayashi Terutake , Michihata Masaki , Takaya Yasuhiro , Foong Lee Kok
Published: June 2016

In order to measure the sizes of nanoparticles with a wide size distribution in a solvent, we developed an optical microscopy system that allows for fluorescence polarization (FP) measurement and optical observation. This system allows the evaluation of nanoparticle sizes over a wide range, because the fluorescent signal intensity is independent of changes in the nanoparticle sizes. In this paper, we describe a fundamental experiment to verify the feasibility of using this system for different sizes of nanoparticles.
GUM conformity of software products - a discussion from a software tester's perspective
Authors: Greif Norbert , Schrepf Heike
Published: June 2016

<span style="font-family: ";Calibri";,";sans-serif";; font-size: 9pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: KO;" lang="EN-US">This paper describes how to assess GUM conformity of software products which claim to offer a GUM-compliant calculation of measurement uncertainties. To bridge the gap between the GUM guideline and the required test specification, an analysis of the GUM from the perspective of software testing is presented. Problems of testability and ambiguity of GUM statements are analysed in detail. <span style="font-family: ";Calibri";,";sans-serif";; font-size: 9pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: KO;" lang="EN-US">The benefit and the limits of the developed validation procedure and test environment are outlined.
Optimization of checking interval and adjustment limit for random-walking process including effects of adjustment uncertainty and time lag
Authors: Shirono Katsuhiro , Tanaka Hideyuki , Shiro Masanori , Ehara Kensei
Published: June 2016

Taguchi's online quality control aims at the optimization of the checking interval and adjustment limit of a process from the economic point of view. (The checking interval corresponds to the calibration interval for the control of a measuring device.) The present study provides a mathematical formalism and an efficient computation method to take adjustment uncertainty and time lag into consideration in the optimization of a random-walking property. In cases where either the checking cost or the adjustment cost is free, the approximate analytical solution is given. Qualitatively, a larger uncertainty of adjustment derives a shorter optimized checking interval and a larger adjustment limit. On the other hand, a larger time lag derives a smaller checking interval and adjustment limit. Information of approximate equations and a data set (CSV) useful for efficient computation is provided.
A proposal to minimize the dispersion on primary calibration results of single-ended accelerometers at high frequencies
Authors: Ripper Gustavo Palmeira , Micheli Giancarlo Barbosa , Dias Ronaldo Da Silva
Published: June 2016

Primary calibrations of single-ended accelerometers by laser interferometric methods can be strongly affected at high frequencies by the vibration exciter used to generate the mechanical motion. A study was carried out at the Vibration Laboratory of INMETRO aiming to better understand the causes of this dependence and to find a way to reduce its effect. A simple solution is proposed by the authors to reduce the dispersion on the sensitivity results evidenced when different vibration exciters are used. This proposal can be very helpful for calibration laboratories willing to compare results obtained in different measurement systems associated with low measurement uncertainties. Therefore, it might benefit processes, which includes for example the validation of calibration systems and interlaboratory comparisons.
Evaluation of inconsistent data of key comparisons of measurement standards
Authors: Chunovkina Anna , Zviagin Nikita , Burmistrova Natalia
Published: June 2016

This paper deals with evaluation of inconsistent data obtained in key comparisons of national measurement standards. The concept "equivalence of measurement standards" is discussed in the context of metrological compatibility of measurement results. Applications of different methods for evaluating inconsistent data are briefly considered. An explicit practical approach is proposed for evaluating of inconsistent data. The application of the approach is illustrated by analysis of the results of CCQM-K5.
Problems in theory of measurement today
Authors: Gonella L.
Published: June 2016

This is a reissue of a paper which appeared in ACTA IMEKO 1979, Proceedings of the 8th IMEKO Congress of the International Measurement Confederation, "Measurement for progress in science and technology", 21.-27.5.1979, Moscow, vol. 1, pp. 103-110.

The main questions to be answered in the theory of measurement are presented, and their formulation analysed in the classical approach and in a new operative one: the scope and aims of the theory itself, the concepts of measurable quantity, measurement results, error, uncertainty, the role of time. The paper is meant to define problems as the first step toward their solution.
Structured instrument design
Authors: Sydenham P. H.
Published: June 2016

This is a reissue of a paper which appeared in ACTA IMEKO 1988, Proceedings of the 11th Triennial World Congress of the International Measurement Confederation (IMEKO), "Instrumentation for the 21st century", 16.-21.10.1988, Houston, pp. 271-275.

The overall system design of measuring instrumentation is currently carried out by an intuitive process. Using a "required plus available" knowledge approach, implemented in computers, the user's domain can be interfaced to measurement engineering expertise providing an effective CAE tool. Progress in this new approach, that promises to dramatically reduce design time, place system generation in the hands of application domain users, and bring about more unity in measurement scholarship, is reviewed.
Rarefied gas flow in pressure and vacuum measurements
Authors: Pitakarnnop Jeerasak
Published: June 2016

Flows of a gas through the piston-cylinder gap of a gas-operated pressure balance and in a general vacuum system have one aspect in common, namely that the gas is rarefied due, respectively, to the small dimensions and the low pressure. The flows in both systems could be characterised as being in either slip-flow or transition regimes. Therefore, fundamental research of flow in these regimes is useful for both pressure and vacuum metrology, especially for the gas-operated pressure balance where a continuum viscous flow model is widely used for determining the effective area of the pressure balance. The consideration of gas flow using the most suitable assumption would improve the accuracy of such a calculation. Moreover, knowledge about rarefied gas flow will enable gas behaviour in vacuum and low-flow leak detection systems to be predicted. This paper provides useful information about rarefied gas flow in both slip-flow and transition regimes.
Development of Method for Determination of Pressure Balance Piston fall Rate
Authors: Grgec Bermanec Lovorka , Zvizdic Davor , Simunovic Vedran
Published: June 2016

This paper describes a laboratory method for the determination of the pressure balance piston fall rate using a simple camera-based optical system with internally developed software. Measurements were carried out on three standard piston/cylinder units in the Croatian National Pressure Laboratory (LPM) using gas and oil as transmitting medium.
Measurement equipment, procedure and fall rate results for three sets of measurements are given, as well as an evaluation of the measurement uncertainty. Results were compared with other relevant measurements.
Performance of force standard machines with compensation of lever arm distortion
Authors: Kolwinski Ulrich , Schwind Daniel
Published: June 2016

The demand for lower uncertainties in force measurement is increasing. Deadweight force standard machines are known to yield the lowest measurement uncertainty in force realization. However, their capacities cannot be extended indefinitely as they become too large in size and prohibitively expensive. Lever amplification of a deadweight force is an option for higher capacities in force realization. This paper describes the performance of a force standard machine with a new method (patent pending) for automatic compensation of lever arm distortion in order to keep the amplification ratio constant.
ISO 6789 under Revision - Proposals for Calibration Results of Hand Torque Tools including Measurement Uncertainty
Authors: Röske Dirk
Published: June 2016

The ISO 6789:2003 standard is widely used as a technical document for the calibrations of hand torque tools, but it does not require any statements about uncertainties of the calibration results. Nevertheless, according to the GUM it is necessary to report a complete measurement result including its uncertainty. In addition, according to ISO/IEC 17025:2005, calibration laboratories must take into account measurement uncertainties in the case that they make a conformity declaration in their calibration certificates. In this paper, a proposal is given on how to estimate measurement uncertainties of ISO 6789 calibration results taking into account various influencing quantities.
Mathematical model of checkweigher with electromagnetic force balance system
Authors: Yamakawa Yuji , Yamazaki Takanori
Published: June 2016

Our aim was to develop a high-speed and high-accuracy mass measurement system to be used with a conveyor belt (a checkweigher). The objective in this paper was to present a dynamic model of our proposed measurement system. The checkweigher with an electromagnetic force balance system was approximated using a spring-mass-damper system as the physical model, and the equation of motion was derived. The model parameters could be obtained from experimental data. Finally, the validity of the proposed model was confirmed by comparison of the simulation results with the experimental responses. The dynamic model obtained offers practical and useful information to examine the control scheme and to achieve high-performance mass measurement.
Electrolytic Conductivity as a Quality Indicator for Bioethanol
Authors: Seitz Steffen , Spitzer Petra , Jensen Hans Dalsgaard , Orrù Elena , Durbiano Francesca
Published: June 2016

We present results of the European Metrology Research Project on the SI traceability of electrolytic conductivity measurements in bioethanol. As a first step to this aim secondary conductivity measurements have been performed to characterize reproducibility, stability, measurement uncertainty and the significance of the measurement results. The relative standard measurement uncertainty is of the order 0.3%, while inter-laboratory reproducibility is around 6.9%. The measured conductivities of two samples from different sources show a relative difference of around 30%. These results show that conductivity is an appropriate quality indicator for bioethanol. However, it also demonstrates that inter-laboratory reproducibility has to be improved, in particular with respect to SI traceability.
Experimental evaluation of the air trapped during the water entry of flexible structures
Authors: Panciroli Riccardo , Minak Giangiacomo
Published: June 2016

Deformable structures entering the water might experience several fluid-structure interaction (FSI) phenomena; air trapping is one of these. According to its definition, it consists of air bubbles trapped between the structure and the fluid during the initial stage of the impact. These bubbles might reduce the peak impact force. This phenomenon is characteristic for the water entry of flat-bottom structures. Above a deadrise angle of 10°, air trapping is negligible. In this work, we propose a methodology to evaluate the amount of air trapped in the fluid during the water entry. Experiments are performed on wedges with varying stiffness, entry velocity, and deadrise angle. A digital image post- processing technique is developed and utilized to track the air trapping mechanism and its evolution in time. Interesting results are found on the effect of the impact velocity and the structural deformation on the amount of air trapped during the slamming event.
Multi tapped delay line time-interval measurement system implemented in a programmable structure
Authors: Zielinski Marek , Chaberski Dariusz , Gurski Maciej , Kowalski Marcin
Published: June 2016

This paper describes a time-interval measurement system with increased resolution using multiple taped delay lines. In this time-interval measurement system, sixteen time-stamps are registered during a single measuring cycle (one shot). It means that the value of the measured time-interval can be interpolated with higher resolution without increasing the number of measurements or the interpolation time. Limiting the total measurement time reduces the energy consumption which is particularly important in battery powered systems.
Proposed definition for the Brinell hardness indentation edge
Authors: Low Samuel R , Hattori Koichiro , Germak Alessandro , Knott Andy
Published: June 2016

The industrial Brinell hardness test has been in common use for over 100 years. The test is defined by standardized procedures stating that the Brinell hardness value is proportional to the test force divided by the surface area of the indentation. The test procedures require that the surface area be determined by measuring the indentation diameter after removing the test force. This measurement is usually made using an optical microscope, but without having a physical definition of the indentation edge. This paper proposes a physical definition of the indentation edge such that the Brinell indentation diameter can be unambiguously measured.
Fuzzy scales for the measurement of color
Authors: Benoit Eric
Published: June 2016

The color, with the particularity to be defined simultaneously as a physical quantity and as a psychophysical quantity, is one of the concepts that can link hard sciences and behavioural sciences. From the viewpoint of behavioural sciences, colors are basically measured with nominal scales. in hard sciences, colors are measured with interval scales. Our hypothesis is that the main relation that must be preserved during a color measurement is a metric. We suggest then that colors must be measured with metrical scales. The fuzzy metrical scale is preferred due to the possibility to define it like a nominal scale.
Surface Roughness Modeling with Edge Radius and End Milling Parameters on Al 7075 Alloy Using Taguchi and Regression Methods
Authors: Durakbasa Muhammet Numan , Akdogan Anil , Vanli Ali Serdar , Günay Asli
Published: June 2016

Tool geometry and edge radius are not only crucial for workpiece surface characteristics determination but they also have direct impacts on tool lifetime. They are created in manufacturing and deformations occur in machining processes. With this regard, precise determination of the geometry is of vital importance. This study focused on process parameters like cutting speed, feed rate, depth of cut, tool geometry, and different coatings, to indicate the effects on surface roughness of the machined product on the basis of two and three-dimensional precise measurements. This paper studies the optimization of process parameters and different coating materials with combined different tool radii to obtain the maximum surface quality for the end milling process of Al 7075 alloy by Taguchi and Regression methods. The results revealed optimum process parameters with the proper coating type. The calculated mathematical model predicts average surface roughness value against edge radius wear and processing parameters.
Two-functional µBIST for Testing and Self-Diagnosis of Analog Circuits in Electronic Embedded Systems
Authors: Zaleski Dariusz , Zielonko Romuald
Published: June 2016

The paper concerns the testing of analog circuits and blocks in mixed-signal Electronic Embedded Systems (EESs), using the Built-in Self-Test (BIST) technique. An integrated, two-functional, embedded microtester (µBIST) based on reuse of signal blocks already present in an EES, such as microprocessors, memories, ADCs, DACs, is presented. The novelty of the µBIST solution is its extended functionality. It can perform 2 testing functions: functional testing and fault diagnosis on the level of localization of a faulty element. For functional testing the Complementary Signals (CSs), and for fault diagnosis the Simulation Before Test (SBT) vocabulary techniques have been used. In the fault vocabulary the graphical signatures in the form of identification curves in multidimensional spaces have been applied.
How Geometric Misalignments can affect the Accuracy of Measurements by a Novel Configuration of Self-Tracking LDV
Authors: Dinardo Giuseppe , Fabbiano Laura , Vacca Gaetano
Published: June 2016

Aim of the paper is to evaluate the reliability of a novel configuration of a Laser Doppler Vibrometer (LDV) for the measurement of vibrations affecting rotating components of machines. In the paper an analysis of errors due to the possible static misalignments of the mirrors utilized in an experimental apparatus has been carried out. This instrument was set up for the estimation of the out of plane vibrations of moving (rotating) objects, in order to give a better characterization of the self-tracking technique employed with the use of a 1D single point LDV and its measurements. The accuracies of the measures are mostly linked to the interaction between environment and instrumentation.
Techniques for on-board vibrational passenger comfort monitoring in public transport
Authors: Bodini Ileana , Lancini Matteo , Pasinetti Simone , Vetturi David
Published: June 2016

Traffic calming devices on urban streets, such as elevated pedestrian crossings, speed bumps and roundabouts, are increasingly used, raising a real problem in relation to the on-board comfort that passengers perceive. To measure vibrational comfort related to traffic calming devices that passengers of the public transport perceive, an acquisition system called ASGCM (Autonomous System for Geo-referenced Comfort Measurements) has been developed, taking as a reference the European regulations on rail transports. ASGCM permits to link each measurement of vibration, ground velocity and acceleration with geographical information resulting from a GPS. In this way a map of a comfort index, statistical surveys and correlation between on-board comfort and traffic calming, can be directly obtained by any Geographic Information System (GIS), able to query a centralized remote database, which was developed ad- hoc. A large number of experimental tests has been performed to define a vibrational comfort index and to collect a large dataset that allows statistically significant comparisons between different infrastructures and their characterization. The proposed technique can also be useful for diagnostics purposes, such as vehicle comparison and road maintenance state monitoring.
Identification of dominant error parameters in spectrum measured by TDEMI system
Authors: Kamenský Miroslav , Kovác Karol
Published: June 2016

Multiresolution analog-to-digital converters (MRADC) are usually used in Time Domain ElectroMagnetic Interference (TDEMI) measuring systems for very fast signal sampling with a sufficient dynamic range. The properties of the spectrum measured by the TDEMI system influenced by imperfections in the MRADC are analyzed in this paper. Errors are caused by imperfect matching of the offset and gain and phase of the circuits used in parallel input channels typical for the MRADC. For deep analyses of MRADC behavior, a precise mathematical model has been created using the concept of additive error pulses. Furthermore, a dedicated process of the identification of discrepancy parameters from experimental data is proposed. Identified parameters enter the expressions of the model and enable side to side comparison of experimental and theoretical results.
Design and implementation of novel FPGA based time-interleaved variable centre-frequency digital Î£âˆ’Î” modulators
Authors: Kalafat Kizilkaya Isil , Al-Janabi Mohammed , Kale Izzet
Published: June 2016

Multiresolution analog-to-digital converters (MRADC) are usually used in Time Domain ElectroMagnetic Interference (TDEMI) measuring systems for very fast signal sampling with a sufficient dynamic range. The properties of the spectrum measured by the TDEMI system influenced by imperfections in the MRADC are analyzed in this paper. Errors are caused by imperfect matching of the offset and gain and phase of the circuits used in parallel input channels typical for the MRADC. For deep analyses of MRADC behavior, a precise mathematical model has been created using the concept of additive error pulses. Furthermore, a dedicated process of the identification of discrepancy parameters from experimental data is proposed. Identified parameters enter the expressions of the model and enable side to side comparison of experimental and theoretical results.Novel, multi-path, time-interleaved digital sigma-delta modulators that can operate at any arbitrary frequency from DC to Nyquist are designed, analysed and synthesized in this study. Dual- and quadruple-path fourth-order Butterworth, Chebyshev, Inverse Chebyshev and Elliptical based digital sigma-delta modulators, which offer designers the flexibility of specifying the centre-frequency, pass-band/stop-band attenuation as well as the signal bandwidth are presented. These topologies are compared in terms of their signal-to-noise ratios, hardware complexity, stability, tonality and sensitivity to non-idealities. Detailed simulations performed at the behavioural-level in MATLAB are compared with the experimental results of the FPGA implementation of the designed modulators. The signal-to-noise ratios between the simulated and empirical results are shown to be different by not more than 3-5 dBs. Furthermore, this paper presents the mathematical modelling and evaluation of the tones caused by the finite wordlengths of these digital multi-path sigma-delta modulators when excited by sinusoidal input signals.
Validation of numerical methods for electromagnetic dosimetry through near-field measurements
Authors: Giordano Domenico , Zilberti Luca , Borsero Michele , Forastiere Roberto , Wang Wencui
Published: June 2016

This paper describes the arrangement of a first experimental set-up which allows the comparison between the measurement of the electromagnetic field quantities induced inside a simple cylindrical phantom and the same quantities estimated numerically through a boundary element method. The reliability of the numerical method has been tested at 64 MHz, the Larmor frequency associated to the magnetic resonance imaging devices with an isocenter magnetic field of 1.5 T. To assess its robustness, the comparison is also performed by introducing, inside the phantom, a metallic non magnetic element, which roughly simulates a medical implant.
Virtual quasi-balanced circuits and method of automated quasi-balancing
Authors: Skórkowski Artur , Cichy Adam , Barwinek Sebastian
Published: June 2016

A basic purpose of this research was to verify a possibility of automatic balancing in the virtual realization of a quasi-balanced circuit for capacitance measurements. The diagrams of a virtual quasi-balanced instrument are presented in this paper. The tested circuit was built using a PC computer and the DAQ card NI-6009. The DAQ card and the calculation were controlled by the application developed in the graphical development platform LabVIEW.
Least square procedures to improve the results of the three-parameter sine fitting algorithm
Authors: Baccigalupi Aldo , D'Alessandro Guido , D'Arco Mauro , Schiano Lo Moriello Rosario
Published: June 2016

The paper presents two approaches to improve the three parameter sine fitting algorithm and attain accurate estimates of the parameters of a sinusoidal signal corrupted by noise. As the four parameter sine fitting algorithm, which is usually adopted to improve the estimates of the three parameter algorithm, in theory, the proposed ones can be inserted into iterative schemes and repeated until a target precision is gained. Anyway, the use of the proposed algorithms is particularly suggested for those applications in which the results must be gained in very short times, which are in contrast to long iterative procedures. In these cases, when a single run of the algorithms has to offer the required improvement, the proposed ones are valid alternatives with respect to the four parameter algorithm, sharing with it almost comparable accuracy.
Development of a knowledge base for the planning of prismatic parts inspection on CMM
Authors: Majstorovic Vidosav D. , Stojadinovic Slavenko M. , Sibalija Tatjana V.
Published: June 2016

Inspection on coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) is based on software support for various classes of metrological tasks, i.e. tolerances. Today, the design of a uniform inspection plan for a measuring part presents a rather complex issue due to the following: (i) metrological complexity of a measuring part; (ii) skills and knowledge of a designer / inspection planner; and (iii) software for CAI model, considered as a part of an integrated CAD-CAPP-CAM-CAI system. This issue could be addressed by the usage of expert systems that generate a conceptual inspection plan for a measuring part, based on which the inspection plan for a selected CMM could be automatically developed. This paper presents the development of a model of an automatic inspection planning system for CMMs, and, in particular, the developed knowledge base model.
Mechanical influences in sinusoidal force measurement
Authors: Schlegel Christian , Kiekenap Gabriela , Kahmann Holger , Kumme Rolf
Published: June 2016

The paper describes mechanical influences which disturb a sinusoidal force calibration and hence have an influence on measurement uncertainty. The measurements are based on the application of a scanning vibrometer and the use of triaxial accelerometers. The measuring of many acceleration points on the top mass of the transducer makes it possible to obtain acceleration distributions from which a standard deviation can be derived; the triaxial accelerometer allows the observance of certain effects, like rocking modes, or other problems related to specific excitation frequencies of the force transducer. Both measurements can be related to each other. The rocking effects are discussed with FEM model calculations.
Dynamic torque calibration by means of model parameter identification
Authors: Klaus Leonard , Arendacká Barbora , Kobusch Michael , Bruns Thomas
Published: June 2016

For the dynamic calibration of torque transducers, a model of the transducer and an extended model of the mounted transducer including the measuring device have been developed. The dynamic behaviour of a torque transducer under test is going to be described by its model parameters. This paper describes the models with these known and unknown parameters and how the calibration measurements are going to be carried out. The principle for the identification of the transducer's model parameters from measurement data is described using a least squares approach. The influence of a variation of the transducer's parameters on the frequency response of the expanded model is analysed.
Broadband Corbino spectroscopy and stripline resonators to study the microwave properties of superconductors
Authors: Scheffler Marc , Felger M. Maximilian , Thiemann Markus , Hafner Daniel , Schlegel Katrin , Dressel Martin , Ilin Konstantin S. , Siegel Michael , Seiro Silvia , Geibel Christoph , Steglich Frank
Published: June 2016

Superconducting materials are of great interest both for the fundamental understanding of electrons in solids as well as for a range of different applications. Studying superconductors with microwaves offers a direct experimental access to the electrodynamic response of these materials, which in turn can reveal fundamental material properties such as the superconducting penetration depth. Here we describe two different techniques to study superconductors at microwave frequencies: the broadband Corbino approach can cover frequencies from the MHz range up to 50 GHz continuously but is limited to thin-film samples whereas the stripline resonators are sensitive enough to study low-loss single crystals but reveal data only at a set of roughly equidistant resonant frequencies. We document the applicability of these two techniques with data taken on an ultrathin TaN film and a single crystal of the heavy-fermion superconductor CeCu2Si2, respectively.
Some thoughts on quality models: evolution and perspectives
Authors: Buglione Luigi
Published: June 2016

â€˜Qualityâ€™ is an evolving concept, quite difficult to be defined, whatever the application domain observed. As Tom Demarco said, itâ€™s true that â€œyou cannot control what you cannot measureâ€. But coming back, itâ€™s also true that â€œyou cannot measure what you cannot defineâ€ and again â€œyou cannot define what you donâ€™t knowâ€. Thus, moving from a common, shared definition is the priority for any activity and creates also measures from any measurement and benchmarking activity. Along the years, several â€˜quality modelsâ€™ (QM) have been produced: the scope for non-functional attributes (part of the â€˜qualityâ€™ definition, also according to ISO) is enlarging. This paper discusses the evolution of the quality concept (broader than the one referred to the solely â€˜productâ€™) in order to observe which perspectives can be drawn up for the next years.
New generation of cage-type current shunts developed using model analysis
Authors: Nováková Zachovalová Vera , Sí­ra Martin , Bednár Pavel , Maslán Stanislav
Published: June 2016

This paper describes a new generation of cage-type ac/dc current shunts from 30 mA up to 10 A developed using a lumped circuit element model. Comparison of the calculated and measured values shows agreement better than 6 ppm in the ac-dc difference at frequencies up to 100 kHz.
Development of combustion chamber of a reference calorimeter with numerical analysis
Authors: Gonzalez-Duran Jose Eli Eduardo , Estrada-Baltazar Alejandro , Lira-Cortes Leonel
Published: June 2016

The present work focuses on the numerical modeling of two combustion chambers to be used inside an isoperibolic calorimeter to measure the Superior Calorific Value (SCV) from natural gas. This work shows performance of both chambers working under isoperibolic principle, through simulations based on Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The aim of the work is expose the performance of chamber combustion published in the literature versus another one proposed in this work, and show how was improved the performance of the chamber which proposed in this work by changing the geometry. And it is checked by analyzing temperature of burned gases at exit of combustion chamber.
Type A evaluation of measurement uncertainty when the sample size is not predetermined
Authors: Willink Robin
Published: June 2016

The archetypal procedure in Type A evaluation of measurement uncertainty involves making n observations of the same quantity, taking the sample figure s² to be an unbiased estimate of the underlying variance and quoting the figure s / sqrt(n) as the relevant standard uncertainty. Although this procedure is theoretically valid when the sample size n is fixed, it is not necessarily valid when n is chosen in response to the growing dataset. In fact, when the experimenter makes observations until a certain level of uncertainty in the mean is reached, the bias in the estimation of the variance can be as much as -45 %. Likewise, the usual nominal 95 % confidence interval can have a level of confidence as low as 88 %. This issue is discussed and techniques are suggested so that Type A evaluation of uncertainty becomes as accurate as is implied. The 'objective Bayesian' approach to this issue is discussed and an associated unacceptable phenomenon is identified.
Analysis of Cadmium and Lead in honey: direct-determination by Graphite Furnace Atomic Absorption Spectrometry
Authors: Colabucci Andrea , Turco Anna Chiara , Ciprotti Maria , Di Gregorio Marco , Sorbo Angela , Ciaralli Laura
Published: June 2016

One of the emerging issues regarding the analysis of inorganic contaminants in food is the determination of Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) in honey. In fact, this kind of analysis is foreseen in most of the National Residue Control Plans (NRCPs) that European Union Member States (EU MSs) have to perform according to Directive 96/23.

With the aim to provide technical support to the EU National Reference Laboratories (NRLs), an easy-to-use method on direct determination (DD) of Cd and Pb in honey by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GF-AAS) after dissolution in an aqueous mixture of 2.5 % HNO3 (v/v) and 12.5 % H2O2 (v/v) was in-house validated and distributed to the NRLs network. Analyses were carried out on a batch prepared for the feasibility study of the EURL-CEFAO 19th PT on honey. The validation levels (20 and 100 µg/kg for Cd and Pb, respectively) were chosen similar to those that would have been proposed for the PT.

The method proved its efficacy in terms of analytical performance; it appears to be low cost and time saving compared to a microwave sample preparation. In addition, it also decreases the environmental impact, being the amount of acid and reagents considerably reduced.  
Returns on Investment in California County Departments of Public Health
Authors: Brown Timothy T.
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To estimate the average return on investment for the overall activities of county departments of public health in California.

Methods. I gathered the elements necessary to estimate the average return on investment for county departments of public health in California during the period 2001 to 2008–2009. These came from peer-reviewed journal articles published as part of a larger project to develop a method for determining return on investment for public health by using a health economics framework. I combined these elements by using the standard formula for computing return on investment, and performed a sensitivity analysis. Then I compared the return on investment for county departments of public health with the returns on investment generated for various aspects of medical care.

Results. The estimated return on investment from $1 invested in county departments of public health in California ranges from $67.07 to $88.21.

Conclusions. The very large estimated return on investment for California county departments of public health relative to the return on investment for selected aspects of medical care suggests that public health is a wise investment.
Framing Strategies to Avoid Mother-Blame in Communicating the Origins of Chronic Disease
Authors: Winett Liana B. , Wulf Alyssa B. , Wallack Lawrence
Published: June 2016

Evolving research in epigenetics and the developmental origins of health and disease offers tremendous promise in explaining how the social environment, place, and resources available to us have enduring effects on our health. Troubling from a communications perspective, however, is the tendency in framing the science to hold mothers almost uniquely culpable for their offspring’s later disease risk. The purpose of this article is to add to the conversation about avoiding this unintended outcome by (1) discussing the importance of cognitive processing and issue frames, (2) describing framing challenges associated with communicating about developmental origins of health and disease and offering principles to address them, and (3) providing examples of conceptual metaphors that may be helpful in telling this complex and contextual story for public health.
Mortality Among Adults With Intellectual Disability in England: Comparisons With the General Population
Authors: Hosking Fay J. , Carey Iain M. , Shah Sunil M. , Harris Tess , DeWilde Stephen , Beighton Carole , Cook Derek G.
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To describe mortality among adults with intellectual disability in England in comparison with the general population.

Methods. We conducted a cohort study from 2009 to 2013 using data from 343 general practices. Adults with intellectual disability (n = 16 666; 656 deaths) were compared with age-, gender-, and practice-matched controls (n = 113 562; 1358 deaths).

Results. Adults with intellectual disability had higher mortality rates than controls (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.6; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.3, 3.9). This risk remained high after adjustment for comorbidity, smoking, and deprivation (HR = 3.1; 95% CI = 2.7, 3.4); it was even higher among adults with intellectual disability and Down syndrome or epilepsy. A total of 37.0% of all deaths among adults with intellectual disability were classified as being amenable to health care intervention, compared with 22.5% in the general population (HR = 5.9; 95% CI = 5.1, 6.8).

Conclusions. Mortality among adults with intellectual disability is markedly elevated in comparison with the general population, with more than a third of deaths potentially amenable to health care interventions. This mortality disparity suggests the need to improve access to, and quality of, health care among people with intellectual disability.
Parental Race/Ethnicity and Adverse Birth Outcomes in New York City: 2000–2010
Authors: Borrell Luisa N. , Rodriguez-Alvarez Elena , Savitz David A. , Baquero Maria C.
Published: June 2016

Objectives. To examine the association of maternal race/ethnicity only and parental race/ethnicity jointly with adverse birth outcomes (low birth weight, small for gestational age, preterm birth, and infant mortality) among New York City women.

Methods. We used Bureau of Vital Statistics, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene birth- and death-linked data from 2000 to 2010 (n = 984 807) to quantify the association of maternal race/ethnicity and parental race/ethnicity concordance or discordance with each outcome.

Results. By maternal race/ethnicity, infants of non-Hispanic Black, Hispanic, and Asian women had risks of adverse birth outcomes between 10% and 210% greater than infants of non-Hispanic White women. Infants of non-Hispanic Black, Asian, and Hispanic couples exhibited higher risk of adverse birth outcomes than infants of non-Hispanic White couples. Moreover, parental racial/ethnic discordance was associated with an increased risk of adverse birth outcomes, with highest risks for pairings of Asian men with non-Hispanic White, non-Hispanic Black, and Hispanic women, and of Asian women with non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic men.

Conclusions. Parental race/ethnicity discordance may add stress to women during pregnancy, affecting birth outcomes. Thus, parental race/ethnicity should be considered when examining such outcomes.
“Outstanding Services to Negro Health”: Dr. Dorothy Boulding Ferebee, Dr. Virginia M. Alexander, and Black Women Physicians’ Public Health Activism
Authors: Gamble Vanessa Northington
Published: June 2016

An examination of the lives and careers of physician–activists Dorothy Boulding Ferebee (1898–1972) and Virginia M. Alexander (1899–1949) demonstrates how Black physicians in the first half of the 20th century used public health to improve the health of Black Americans and provides insights into the experiences of Black women physicians. I discuss their professional and personal backgrounds and analyze their divergent strategies to address health inequities. Ferebee used her leadership in Black women’s organizations to develop public health programs and become a national advocate for Black health. Alexander, a Quaker, used her religious connections to urge Whites to combat racism in medicine. She also conducted public health research and connected it to health activism. Both were passionate advocates of health equity long before it gained prominence as a major public health issue. An analysis of their work illuminates past efforts to improve the health of Black Americans.
Perceived Roles of Information and Communication Technologies in the Implementation of Continuous Assessment in Nigerian Secondary Schools
Authors: Akindoju Olugbenga Gabriel , Banjoko Sunday Olaniyi , Jimoh Akinola Saliu
Published: June 2016

The study examined the roles of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in the conduct of continuous assessment in secondary schools in Lagos State, Nigeria. Adopting a survey type of descriptive research, a self developed questionnaire was administered on 240 respondents (principals, vice-principals and teachers) from 20 randomly selected secondary schools across 5 local government areas. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive and t-test inferential statistics at 0.05 level of significance, to answer the research questions, and test hypotheses respectively. Based on the analysis conducted, it was found that; both school managers and teachers are aware of the use of ICT for continuous assessment in secondary schools; schools do not have adequate resources for employing ICT for continuous assessment in schools;  there is no significant gender difference in teachers’ awareness level on the use of ICTs for continuous assessment contrary to that of the school managers. Appropriate recommendations were made by the authors.
Promoting Teacher Ethics in Colleges of Teacher Education in Tanzania: Practices and Challenge
Authors: Anangisye William A L
Published: June 2016

This paper focuses on the initiatives and challenges of promoting ethics in teacher training colleges. It draws on qualitative data; generated from Dar es Salaam, Iringa and Mbeya regions of Tanzania in East Africa. Data collected reflect views of informants, including teacher educators, school teachers, student teachers, school inspectors, Teachers Service Department (TSD) officers, and education officers. The data was generated from both interviews (primary) and documentary (secondary) sources. Analysis of data involved data reduction, organization, and interpretation (Huberman & Miles 1994). The findings unveiled two major initiatives: the use of college regulations and the teaching of religious code of conduct. Challenges, on the other hand, ranged from the absence of a course related to teacher ethics, professional "incompetence" of teacher educators, shortage of qualified teachers, lack of resources, the moral problem of society or the irresponsibility of parents and society. The study has concluded that without a well-defined education policy in favour of promoting teacher ethics education, efforts to that effect are doomed to fail
The Relevance of Science, Technology and Mathematics Education (STME) in Developing Skills for Self Reliance: The Nigerian Experience
Authors: Matazu Suleiman Sa'adu
Published: June 2016

Science, Technology and Mathematics Education (STME) has been proved to be an indispensable factor in the economic development of any country; and for Nigeria, it has a more critical role to play. This paper examines the relevance of science, technology and mathematics education (STME) for national development and self-reliance of Nigerian citizens. A historical overview of the interconnectivity of science, technology and mathematics education (STME) and self reliance is highlighted. The current situation and challenges facing STME in Nigeria are also highlighted to bring out the theoretical relevance of (STME) for self reliance which actually has not been practically realized. The author's recommendations include the call for training and re-training of STME teachers to update their knowledge, and the provision of long vocation/weekend programmes for out of school individuals, among others.
Challenges of Education for Democracy in The Gambia
Authors: Ozor Frederick Ugwu
Published: June 2016

Several theories and conceptual issues surround global education-democracy connection. Such issues include those relating to the impact of formal education on democracy in developing countries. In contributing to the growing literature on these issues, this paper argues that education for democracy can strengthen democratic structures in the Republic of the Gambia and that developing knowledge skills in democratic education among teachers could play a significant role in developing democratic awareness. The paper addresses the basic question of whether the prevailing political culture in the Gambia is supportive of the Western model of democracy, and if not, what brand of African democracy could be adopted by African education to facilitate productivity in the society. How can African learning be structured to support democracy? The paper finally discusses the contributions of gender and age in the Gambia to democracy and democratic education, as well as how they could strengthen the development of democracy in the Gambia.
Effective Test Administration in Schools: Principles and Good Practices for Test Administrators
Authors: Rukundo Aloysius , Magambo Justine
Published: June 2016

To establish academic achievement in any public school, teachers have to construct, administer and score tests or examinations. For a valid and reliable assessment of academic achievement, the tests should yield similar and consistent results/grades for comparable groups of students. The validity and reliability of assessment are dependent on many factors among which are administrations of the measurement. This paper focuses on test administration principles and good practices in schools; highlighting principles and good test administration practices and concluding with a summary of the suggestions that, if followed, lead to successful test administration in a any given public school system.