text:
|Publication number
|Publication type
|Application number
|Publication date
|22 Jun 2004
|Filing date
|12 Apr 2001
|Priority date
|1 Sep 1993
|Fee status
|Also published as
|Publication number
|Anne R. Kopf-Sill, Carol T. Schembri
|Original Assignee
|Abaxis, Inc.
|Export Citation
|BiBTeX, EndNote, RefMan
|Patent Citations (23), Non-Patent Citations (3), Referenced by (29), Classifications (16), Legal Events (4)
|External Links: USPTO, USPTO Assignment, Espacenet
The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/562,327 filed Nov. 22, 1995 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,235,531, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/254,406, filed Jun. 6, 1994, now abandoned which is a continuation in part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/115,162 filed Sep. 1, 1993 now U.S. Pat. No. 5,591,643 each of which is incorporated herein by reference.
The present invention relates generally to devices and methods for analyzing biological fluids. In particular, it relates to the design and use of improved centrifugal rotors having siphons which allow delivery of a precise volume of liquid to a chamber in the rotor.
Biological tests of blood plasma and other biological fluids frequently require that fluids be quickly divided into predetermined volumes for analysis in a variety of optical tests or assays. It is also frequently desirable to separate potentially interfering cellular components of the material from the other fluid prior to testing. Such measurement and separation steps have previously been typically performed by centrifugation to separate, for instance, blood plasma from the cellular components, followed by manual or automated pipetting of predetermined volumes of the blood plasma into separate test walls. Such procedures are labor intensive and time-consuming. As a result, various automated systems and methods have been proposed for providing multiple aliquots of plasma suitable for testing in a more efficient manner.
A major advance in the analysis of biological fluids has been the use of centrifugal rotors. These rotors are designed to measure volumes of a biological fluid, such as blood, remove cellular components, and mix the fluid with an appropriate diluents for analysis, for example by optical testing. Typically, the rotors provide a plurality of discrete volumes of sample in separate cuvettes in which the sample is optically analyzed.
To ensure accurate and consistent results, such rotors require the delivery of precisely measured volumes of liquid to various chambers in the rotor. This must often be accomplished in circumstances in which the rotor quickly accelerates and decelerates or is otherwise perturbed during operation. This perturbation can often lead to delivery of inaccurately measured volumes. The present invention addresses these and other needs.
U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,894,204 and 5,160,702 disclose siphons for transferring fluids between chambers in a rotor. U.S. Pat. No. 4,244,916 discloses a rotor comprising a plurality of cuvettes positioned radially outward of a central receptacle. Each cuvette is connected to the central receptacle by a duct and comprises a separate air escape orifice. U.S. Pat. No. 4,314,968 relates to rotors having cells positioned on the periphery of the rotor. Each cell includes a peripheral orifice for removing fluid introduced into the cell. U.S. Pat. No. 4,902,479 discloses a multicuvette rotor comprising elongated, radially extending cuvettes. Each elongated cuvette comprises a first chamber for receiving a first constituent and a second chamber for receiving a second constituent. A divider structure between the first and second chambers prevents mixing of the constituents before a predetermined time. Mixing occurs as the rotor is spun at a significant speed. U.S. Pat. No. 4,963,498 discloses devices which rely upon capillaries, chambers, and orifices to pump and mix fluids for optical analysis. U.S. Pat. No. 5,077,013 discloses rotors comprising peripheral cuvettes connected to holding chambers positioned radially inward from the cuvettes.
The present invention provides centrifugal rotors comprising siphons for delivering a premeasured volume of liquid, typically a biological sample such as plasma, between a first and a second chamber in the rotor. The siphons of the invention have an elbow that is radially inward of the radially most inward point of the fluid in the first chamber. As the rotor is spinning the fluid does not flow past the elbow. After the rotor stops, capillary forces "prime" the siphon by pulling fluid just around the elbow. When the rotor is restarted, centrifugal force draws the remaining fluid out of the metering chamber into the receiving chamber until the level of the fluid in the metering chamber is at the same radial distance as the outlet of the siphon. The siphons of the invention are designed such that the inlet of the siphon on the first chamber is radially outward or inward of the siphon outlet on the second chamber.
The positioning of the inlets and outlets of the siphons of the invention provide a number of advantages. For example, the inlet of the siphon is always positioned radially outward of the final position of the meniscus of the fluid in the first chamber, after fluid has been transferred to the second chamber. Thus, inaccuracy in measurement associated with different shaped menisci in different fluids is minimized since the meniscus is minimized.
The chambers connected by the siphons of the invention are used to perform any of a number of functions, such as metering liquids, separating solid components from a sample, mixing diluent with the sample, and the like. In the preferred embodiments, the siphons connect a plasma metering chamber to a mixing chamber for mixing the premeasured volume of plasma with diluent.
In addition, the rotors of the invention comprise unmodified inlet channels connecting a distribution ring to cuvettes comprising reagents for optical analysis of a biological sample. The inlet channels are sized such that, as the rotor spins, gas escapes from the cuvette through the inlet channel as the liquid enters the cuvette through the inlet channel. An "unmodified inlet channel" as used herein refers to a simple inlet channel, typically having a rectangular cross section, which is not modified (e.g., by altering the cross-sectional shape, surface texture, and the like) to provide a pathway for gas to escape from a cuvette that is not otherwise vented.
FIGS. 1A-1F are top plan views of a rotor of the invention showing the flow of fluids through the chambers and channels of the rotor as the rotor is spun.
The present invention provides methods and devices for the delivery of liquids to chambers in an analytical rotor. The rotors of the invention comprise siphons which ensure precise delivery of metered volumes of liquid to a desired chamber in the rotor.
The rotors of the invention are suitable for the analysis of any liquid, typically a biological sample such as whole blood or plasma. It is also useful with numerous other biological fluids, such as urine, sputum, semen, saliva, ocular lens fluid, cerebral fluid, spinal fluid, amniotic fluid. Other fluids that can be tested include tissue culture media, food and industrial chemicals, environmental samples and the like.
The rotors typically provide chambers which can separate cellular components from the biological sample (e.g. whole blood), measure a precise volume of liquid sample (e.g. plasma), mix the sample with an appropriate diluent and deliver the diluted sample to cuvettes for optical analysis. The fluid delivered to the cuvettes, undergoes reaction(s) within the cuvettes, e.g., reaction with a reagent which forms part of an analytical procedure to detect one or more analytes within the fluid. The sample may further be optically analyzed while present in the rotor, either with or without prior reaction.
The apparatus of the present invention comprises an analytical rotor having a rotor body which is capable of being mounted on a conventional laboratory centrifuge of the type which is commercially available from suppliers, such as Beckman Instruments, Inc., Spinco Division, Fullerton, Calif.; Fisher scientific, Pittsburgh, Pa.; VWR Scientific, San Francisco, Calif., and the like. Generally, the centrifugal rotor will include a receptacle or other coupling device suitable for mounting on a vertical drive shaft provided by the centrifuge. The particular design of the receptacle or coupling device will depend on the nature of the centrifuge, and it will be appreciated that the centrifugal rotor of the present invention may be adapted for use with all or most types of centrifuges which are now available or which may become available in the future.
The rotor body comprises a structure which maintains a desired geometric pattern or relationship between a plurality of chambers, interconnection passages, and vents, as described in more detail below. Various specialized chambers and channels suitable for use in the rotors of the invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,061,381 and 5,122,284, and U.S. Ser. Nos. 07/678,762 and 07/783,041 which are incorporated herein by reference.
Usually, the body will be a substantially solid plate or disk with the chambers and passages formed as spaces or voids in the otherwise solid matrix. Conveniently, such solid plate structures may be formed by laminating a plurality of separately-formed layers together into a composite structure where the chambers and horizontal passages are generally formed between adjacent layers. The vertical passages may be formed through the layers. The individual layers may be formed by injection molding, machining, or combinations thereof, and will usually be joined together, typically using a suitable adhesive or by ultrasonic welding. The final enclosed volumes are formed when the layers are brought together.
Of course, the centrifugal rotor could also be formed as a plurality of discrete components, such as tubes, vessels, chambers, etc., arranged in a suitable framework. Such assemblies of discrete components, however, are generally more difficult to manufacture and are therefore less desirable than those formed within a substantially solid plate.
The rotor body may be formed from a wide variety of materials and may optionally include two or more materials. Usually, the material(s) will be transparent so that the presence and distribution of the biological fluid, cellular components, and reagents may be observed within the various internal chambers and passages. Optionally, to the extent analytical chambers, e.g., cuvettes, or other test wells are formed within the rotor, it is desirable to have suitable optical paths formed within the rotor so that the contents of the cuvettes may be observed spectrophotometrically, fluorometrically, or by other optical assessment instruments. The construction of suitable cuvettes having particular optical paths formed therethrough is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,173,193, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. In the preferred embodiment, the rotor is formed with an acrylic resin having suitable optical properties, at least in those areas which define an optical path.
The apparatus and method of the present invention are suitable for performing a wide variety of analytic procedures and assays which are beneficially or necessarily performed on blood plasma and other samples. The analytic procedures may require that the sample be combined with one or more reagents so that some detectable change occurs which may be related to the presence and/or amount of a particular component (analyte) or characteristic of the sample. For instance, the sample may undergo a reaction or other change which results in a change in color, fluorescence, luminescence, or the like, which may be measured by conventional spectrophotometers, fluorometers, light detectors, and the like. In some cases, immunoassays and other specific binding assays may be performed within the cell-free fluid collection chamber or within cuvettes which are connected to the collection chamber. Generally, such assay procedures should be homogeneous and not require a separation step. In other cases, however, it may be possible to accommodate heterogeneous assay systems by providing a means to separate the sample (e.g., blood plasma) from the collection chamber or another test well or cuvette after the immunological reaction step has occurred. One of skill will recognize that the means of analyzing the sample is not an important aspect of the invention. Any of a number of analytical methods can be adapted for use in the rotors of the invention, depending upon the particular sample being analyzed and component being detected.
In the case of blood analyses, conventional blood assays are typically performed. Examples of assays which may be performed include those designed to detect glucose, lactate, dehydrogenase, serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), blood urea nitrogen (BUN), total protein, alkalinity, phosphatase, bilirubin, calcium, chloride, sodium, potassium, magnesium, and the like. This list is not exhaustive and is intended merely as being exemplary of the assays which may be performed using the apparatus and method of the present invention. Usually, these tests will require that the blood and plasma be combined with one or more reagents which result in an optically detectable, usually photometrically detectable, change in the plasma. The reagents which are required are well known and amply described in the patent and scientific literature.
The reagents are preferably provided in lyophilized form to increase stability. Ideally, they are provided in the form of lyophilized reagent spheres as described in U.S. Ser. No. 07/747,179, which is incorporated herein by reference.
Referring now to FIGS. 1A-1F, an analytical rotor comprising the chambers and channels of the present invention can be seen. FIG. 1A shows the position of a blood sample 102 in the blood application chamber 104 after the sample has been loaded in the rotor body 100. A diluent container in chamber 106 is opened upon mounting of the rotor on the spindle of the centrifuge as described in copending and commonly assigned application, U.S. Ser. No. 07/873,327, which is incorporated herein by reference.
FIG. 1B shows the position of the diluent 108 and blood sample 102 after the rotor is spun at 4,000 rpm. The blood sample 102 begins to exit the blood application chamber 104 and enters the plasma metering chamber 110. At the same time, diluent 108 empties from the diluent container into the holding chamber 112. The diluent immediately begins to enter the diluent metering chamber 114 through channel 116.
FIG. 1C shows the position of the liquids as the rotor 100 continues to spin. Here, the blood sample 102 has emptied the blood application chamber 104 and overflows the plasma metering chamber 110 into the overflow chamber 118 where it flows to the hemoglobin cuvette 120 and the excess blood dump 122. Meanwhile, diluent 108 fills the diluent metering chamber 114 and excess flows through channel 124 to diluent-only cuvettes 126 and excess diluent dump 127.
FIG. 1D shows the position of the liquids at the conclusion of the first spin. The blood sample 102 has separated into cells 128 and plasma 130. The diluent-only cuvettes 126 are filled and a predetermined amount of diluent remains in the diluent metering chamber 114. The rotor 100 is then stopped and the siphon 132 from the diluent metering chamber 114, as well as the siphon 134 from the plasma metering chamber 110, are allowed to prime, as described above. Siphon 134 is a siphon of the present invention. It is connected to the plasma metering chamber 110 at inlet 138. The inlet 138 is positioned radially outward of the siphon outlet 139, through which the siphon 134 empties into the mixing chamber 136.
FIG. 1E shows the position of the liquids during the second spin of the rotor. The diluent metering chamber 114 empties into the mixing chamber 136 through siphon 132. A predetermined amount of plasma 130 is metered into the mixing chamber 136 and the two fluids are mixed, thereby forming diluted plasma 131. The amount of plasma 130 delivered to the mixing chamber 136 is determined by the position of the outlet 139 on the siphon 134. As can be seen in this figure, the final level of the plasma 133 in the plasma metering chamber 110 is at the same radial position as the outlet 139. Thus, the volume of plasma delivered to the mixing chamber 136 is determined by the volume of the plasma metering chamber 110 between the exit to the overflow chamber 129 and the final level of plasma 133. After the plasma and diluent are mixed in the mixing chamber 136, the rotor is stopped again and the output siphon 140 is primed.
FIG. 1F shows the position of the diluted plasma 131 as the rotor is spun during the third spin. This figure illustrates the movement of the diluted plasma 131 through the distribution ring 142 and inlet channels 144 to the cuvettes 146 and excess plasma dump 147. The resistance to flow in the output siphon 140 is selected to be higher than the resistance to flow in the distribution ring 142 and the inlet channels 144 50 that air present in the cuvettes 146 can escape as the cuvettes are filled. Specifically, siphon 140 is dimensioned such that the ratio of the cross sectional area of the inlet channels 144 to the cross sectional area of the liquid in them is greater than 2:1, preferably greater than about 4:1. The cross sectional area of the inlet channels 144 is typically the same as or slightly smaller than that of the distribution channel 142 so that gas in the unvented cuvettes escapes through the inlet channels 144 and distribution 142. The cross-sectional area of the inlet channel 144 usually is larger than the cross sectional area of the delivery channel 140, e.g., at least about 1.5 times or 2 times the cross-sectional area of the delivery channel 140. If the sample is plasma or diluted plasma and the channels are rectangular in cross-section, their dimensions are typically as follows: siphon: 0.150 mm depth, 0.200 mm width; distribution channel 0.300 mm depth, 0.5 mm width; inlet channels: 0.150 depth, 0.500 width.
After the cuvettes have been filled, reagents present in the cuvettes are mixed with the solution and the necessary photometric analyses are made on the sample. Such analyses are carried out as described above according to methods known to those of skill in the art.
Although the foregoing invention has been described in detail for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be obvious that certain modifications may be practiced within the scope of the appended claims.
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|Schembri, C. Abstract, "Centrifugation and Capillary Integrated into a Multiple Analyte Whole Blood Analyzer, " Abaxis, Inc., Feb. 1993.
|Tech Update, "Blood Rotor Test Magic," Popular Mechanics, Feb. 1993.
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|22 Dec 2004
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|Analysis device and an analysis apparatus using the analysis device
|12 Nov 2010
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|3 Mar 2008
|28 Apr 2011
|Bergeron Michel G
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|Medi Medical Engineering Corp.
|Centrifugal rotor and method for using the same for delivering biological sample
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|3M Innovative Properties Company
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|U.S. Classification
|422/72, 436/45, 436/180, 422/549
|International Classification
|Cooperative Classification
|European Classification
|24 Sep 2007
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 4
|16 Jan 2008
Owner name: ABAXIS, INC., CALIFORNIA
Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNORS:KOPF-SILL, ANNE R.;SCHEMBRI, CAROL T.;REEL/FRAME:020371/0068
Effective date: 19940725
|22 Dec 2011
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 8
|22 Dec 2015
|Fee payment
Year of fee payment: 12


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International Education Studies http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies
International Education Studies (IES) is an international, double-blind peer-reviewed, open-access journal indexed by EBSCOhost, ERA, ERIC, Gale, Google Scholar, Lockss, Open J-Gate, PKP Open Archives Harvester, ProQuest, Ulrich's, Universe Digital Library and other databases. This journal is published monthly by the Canadian Center of Science and Education in both print and online versions. The online version is free to access and download. The journal publishes original research papers, case reports, and review articles. Publication includes the following topics:

• Education method, education policy and education development;
• Educational technology and educational psychology;
• Special education and cross-cultural education;
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 Canadian Center of Science and Education en-US International Education Studies 1913-9020 Submission of an article implies that the work described has not been published previously (except in the form of an abstract or as part of a published lecture or academic thesis), that it is not under consideration for publication elsewhere, that its publication is approved by all authors and tacitly or explicitly by the responsible authorities where the work was carried out, and that, if accepted, will not be published elsewhere in the same form, in English or in any other language, without the written consent of the Publisher. The Editors reserve the right to edit or otherwise alter all contributions, but authors will receive proofs for approval before publication.
Copyrights for articles published in CCSE journals are retained by the authors, with first publication rights granted to the journal. The journal/publisher is not responsible for subsequent uses of the work. It is the author's responsibility to bring an infringement action if so desired by the author.
 Faculty Perception on International Students in Turkey: Benefits and Challenges http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/56652
The purpose of this qualitative case study is to examine faculty perceptions on international students with respect to benefits and challenges of having them in a liberal arts university located in Istanbul, Turkey. The research data were collected through evaluation of pertinent documents of the school and interviews with sixteen faculty members and one administrative staff member. Revealed themes for the benefits of having international students within the institution included: (1) escalading the overall academic and disciplinary success of the school, (2) creating diversity in learning environment and (3) generating competitive learning environment. Themes that are revealed for the challenges of having international students included: (1) adaptation to a new educational system, (2) language accents, (3) time management issues, and (4) isolation and grouping.
 Erkan Acar Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-07 2016-04-07 9 5 1 10.5539/ies.v9n5p1 Muscle Strength and Flexibility without and with Visual Impairments Judoka's http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/56766
The aim of this study was to examine muscle strength and flexibility of Judoka with and without visual impairments. A total of 32 male national judoka volunteered to participate in this study. There were 20 male judoka without visual impairments (mean±SD; age: 19.20±5.76 years, body weight: 66.45±11.09 kg, height: 169.60±7.98 cm, sport age: 6.20±1.15 years). There were 12 male judoka with visual impairments (mean±SD; age: 24.50±4.06 years, body weight: 75.58±22.49 kg, height: 173.50±7.23 cm, sport age: 8.08±1.44years). Judoka were also assessed on several strength measurements including standing long jump, right hand grip, left hand grip, vertical jump, leg strength, sit-up and push up, and flexibility with sit and reach. We found significant differences between with and without visual impairments in leg strength, left and right hand grip and push-up (p<0.05). On the other hand, there was no significant difference between with visual and without impairments in vertical jump, sit-up, flexibility, and standing long jump (p>0.05). In conclusion, it is considered that visual impairment issue does not have negative effects on physical development and muscle power performance levels for ones doing judo sport because elite active athletes' training levels are close to each other.
 Onder Karakoc Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-07 2016-04-07 9 5 12 10.5539/ies.v9n5p12 Improving Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) of Pre-Service English Language Teachers http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/56873
Developing as teachers and optimizing learning experiences for future students is the ultimate goal in technology use in teacher education programs. This study aims to explore the effectiveness of a five-week workshop and training sessions on Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK) of pre-service English language teachers. The participants are 59 pre-service English language teachers enrolled in an ELT Methodology Course at a state university. The data is gathered through the TPACK Scale developed by Solak and Çakir (2014) and journal entries of pre-service English language teachers before and after the procedure. The results indicate a statistically significant improvement in TPACK scores of both male and female pre-service English language teachers. The journal entries clearly indicate an increase in several possible applications or websites that can be used in the classroom with more effective and to the point objectives. The pre-service English language teachers have also displayed better performance in manufacturing and tailoring language learning/teaching materials with specific goals.
 Ceylan Yangin Ersanli Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-13 2016-04-13 9 5 18 10.5539/ies.v9n5p18 Perceived Social Support and Assertiveness as a Predictor of Candidates Psychological Counselors' Psychological Well-Being http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/58493
In this research, to what extent the variables of perceived social support (family, friends and special people) and assertiveness predicted the psychological well-being levels of candidate psychological counselors. The research group of this study included totally randomly selected 308 candidate psychological counselors including 174 females (56.5%) and 134 males (43.5%) studying at Erzincan University, Faculty of Education, Psychological Counseling and Guidance Department in 2015-2016 academic year. The age average of the research group was 20.84. Psychological Well-Being Scale, Voltan-Acar Assertiveness Scale, Multidimensional Perceived Social Support Scale, and Personal Information Form were used as the data collection tools in the research. The data obtained in the research were analyzed with stepwise regression analysis method as one of the multiple linear regression analyses methods. According to the research findings, the variables of assertiveness and social support perceived from family, friends and special people significantly predicted psychological well-being.
 Bünyamin Ates Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 28 10.5539/ies.v9n5p28 Emotional Intelligence of Instructors and the Quality of Their Instructional Performance http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/49954
Quality of instructional performance is the key skill needed for every teaching faculty for achieving the level of pedigree in the present educational scenario. However, the truth is that there are minimal studies to analyze the competency linking emotional intelligence to quality of instructional performance. Therefore the present attempt is to study the role of E.I. among University Instructors and analyze their quality of instructional performance. A sample of 110 Professors participated in the survey from different Universities in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Al-Ain. Emotional Quotient Inventory scale was developed to measure the EQ of Instructors. Statistical technique like 't' test and ANOVA was used to find the test mean difference between two groups and more than two groups. The result revealed that emotional intelligence and self-efficacy had very significant relationship towards their work attitude followed by their performance.
 Smitha Dev Sreethi Nair Anand Dwivedi Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 40 10.5539/ies.v9n5p40 Factors for Development of Learning Content and Task for MOOCs in an Asian Context http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/52625
The rapid advancement of emergent learning technologies has led to the introduction of massive open online courses (MOOCs) which offer open-based online learning courses to a large number of students. In line with the advancement, the Malaysia Ministry of Education has recently initiated Malaysia MOOCs via collaboration with four public universities. This paper proposes factors that could be used in development of MOOC learning content, which are: (i) type of MOOC, (ii) type of video lectures, (iii) integration of cultural aspects in video lectures, (iv) communication style in video lectures; and (v) humor effect in video lectures. The paper also proposes factors in developing MOOC learning tasks, namely: (i) structure of learning tasks; (ii) dialog in learning tasks; (iii) learner autonomy in learning tasks; (iv) social settings of learning tasks; and (v) transactional distance of learning tasks. The factors are based on experiences during development of MOOC for ethnic relations and are aligned with learning concepts and strategies such as the transactional distance theory and the theory of the computer model of a sense of humor. Future directions on the development and research on MOOCs are also proposed.
 Norazah Nordin Helmi Norman Mohamed Amin Embi Ahmad Zamri Mansor Fazilah Idris Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 48 10.5539/ies.v9n5p48 Measuring Social Capital and Support Networks of Young Immigrants http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/53491
This paper addresses the importance of the diagnosis of "personal communities" as relational systems that may influence the academic pathways of young immigrants. As part of a longitudinal study of the academic persistence of young people in their transition from compulsory to post-compulsory education, a "personal network questionnaire" has been developed. This instrument allows the relational structure of students to be captured and represented, and the impact of this structure on educational outcomes to be analysed. It measures and explores the network of inter-relations with adults (family, educational and recreational professionals, etc.) and peers in different settings. The theoretical elements underpinning its design and implementation are the interweaving of the student social capital and social support system to which they have or may have access to, and the Social Network Analysis (SNA) approach as the methodological framework. This network approach is rendered highly significant and valuable for professionals in educational diagnosis to assess relational vulnerability and design programs of intervention and counseling. With graphic techniques, we can somewhat address this challenge by examining patterns in relational data, experimenting with these data and putting forward hypotheses.
 María Paz Sandín Esteban Angelina Sánchez Martí Ana Belén Cano Hila Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 62 10.5539/ies.v9n5p62 Heading for Success: Three Case Studies of School Transformation through Capital Construction http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/53855
Utilizing capital as a construct to analyze leadership that triggers school transformation is a newly emerged perspective. This study employed the capital theory as the framework to explore how schools undertook the transformative tasks by multi-case study. Three secondary schools in Taiwan were recruited to investigate how leaders constructed the intellectual, social, spiritual, and financial capital and the interplay among the capitals. The findings indicated that despite certain strategies commonly employed by case schools, the ways schools develop capitals as the strategy of school transformation depended on their unique context. One form of capital might be used to facilitate another form of capital. The study applied capital perspective to Asian context has extended its explanatory power and has created the basis for further research in the field of school reform.
 Wen-Yan Chen Hui-Ling Wendy Pan Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 75 10.5539/ies.v9n5p75 The Effect of Teachers' Spirituality and Ethical Ideology on Their Preference of Reporting Wrongdoings at Schools http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/54956
This paper aimed to examine whistleblowing in point of individual level. Three sets of hypotheses were developed concerning the relationships between (1) religiosity and ethical ideology, (2) ethical ideology and intentions to different modes of whistleblowing, and (3) religiosity and intentions to different modes of whistleblowing. Descriptive statistics, Correlation matrix, and regression analysis were used to analyze the data. The sample includes 323 teachers in Turkey. The results confirmed that religiosity was negatively associated with relativism, and positively associated with idealism while they rejected any relation between the ethical ideology and intention to whistleblowing modes. The results confirmed only the positive relationship between religiosity and internal whistleblowing, while rejecting the other hypotheses. Few studies have investigated the relationship between whistleblowing modes and ethical ideology. Therefore, examining religiosity, ethical ideology, and whistleblowing in an education context in Turkey, this paper believed to contribute the literature with regard to Islamic perspective.
 Asiye TOKER GOKCE Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 85 10.5539/ies.v9n5p85 School Climate of Educational Institutions: Design and Validation of a Diagnostic Scale http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/55610
School climate is recognized as a relevant factor for the improvement of educative processes, favoring the administrative processes and optimum school performance. The present article is the result of a quantitative research model which had the objective of psychometrically designing and validating a scale to diagnose the organizational climate of educational institutions.

This study had the participation of 549 teachers and directors from 42 primary and secondary educational establishments of Chile. Diverse procedures were applied for the validation of content and psychometric validation in the various stages of the investigation, obtaining an instrument composed by seven factors and made up of conceptually and statistically consistent items. The complete scale and its sub-scales show adequate reliability, and likewise an appropriate validity, constituting it an instrument of wide use for supporting the process of education administration, and to promote coexistence climates of appreciation and respect among the educational participants.

The complete scale and its subscales permits the understanding that the organizational climate of the educational center is not reduced to the teacher-student relationship, but rather contemplates the dynamic relationships between diverse players, establishing the importance of the joint action between teachers, directives, students, and parents, as well as revealing the importance of some structural organization variables which influence the daily perception of school climate.
 Sandra Becerra Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 96 10.5539/ies.v9n5p96 A Research into Evaluation of Basketball Athletes' Risk Perception Level http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/56894
The aim of this study is to compare the risk perception levels of Basketball athletes in Turkish League teams according to some variables. In this research the "general screening model", which is one of the descriptive screening methods, was used. While the population of the study consists of athletes actively engaged in the Turkish basketball league teams, its sampling consists of 229 athletes selected by chance and at random methods, which have been playing in different clubs. The questionnaire of Gok was used as a data tool in the study to perception of risk in sports. The difference between the risk perception levels according to the variables of gender, education level and years of playing basketball of the athletes who participated in the study were statistically significant. However, according to the variables of marital status and age of the athletes, the difference between the levels of risk perception statistically was not significant. Results showed that the average risk of female athletes were higher than the average risk of male athletes. The average risk of the athletes educated at high-school level were lower than the average risk of athletes educated at university and postgraduate level, average risk of athletes who play basketball between 1-5 years was lower than the average risk of athletes who play basketball between 6-10, 11-15, 16-20 and above 21 years. Basketball clubs, in order to be robust, should have professional managers in their club managements. Sports clubs should employ specialized advisors regarding the risks that players may encounter. In sports clubs, satisfaction of the players should be the first goal and expectations from them should be clearly specified. Sports clubs should also ask the players' opinions when preparing strategic plans against the risk factors that may occur.
 Ozgur Karatas Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 108 10.5539/ies.v9n5p108 Effect of Core Training Program on Physical Functional Performance in Female Soccer Players http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/57015
The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of core training program on speed, acceleration, vertical jump, and standing long jump in female soccer players. A total of 40 female soccer players volunteered to participate in this study. They were divided randomly into 1 of 2 groups: core training group (CTG; n = 20) and control group (CG; n = 20). The mean (SD) age was 19.05 ± 1.15 years, height was 160.60 ± 4.22 cm, weight was 56.45 ± 3.33 kg, and sport age was 4.50 ± 1.24 for the core training group; the mean (SD) age was 18.55 ± 0.76 years, height was 159.10 ± 3.86 cm, weight was 52.20 ± 3.60 kg, and sport age was 3.35 ± 0.75 years for the control group. Following randomization, the 2 groups did not differ significantly (p>0.05) in any of the dependent variables. The subjects in the control group did not participate in the training and participated only in the pre- and posttest measurements. To evaluate the effect of core training over the functional performance, we applied a testing procedure that included measurements of speed, acceleration, vertical jump, and standing long jump. The core training group showed a 3.4%, 5.9%, 13.3%, 4.2% improvement in speed, acceleration, vertical jump, and standing long jump (respectively) (P<0.05), whereas the control group did not change (P>0.05). In conclusion, Core exercises were improved speed, acceleration, vertical jump, and standing long jump in 18-19 years-old female soccer players. Therefore, it is believed core training is necessary for optimal sport performance and should not be dismissed for all sport branches.
 Cengiz Taskin Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 115 10.5539/ies.v9n5p115 The Effect of Peer Teaching on Mathematics Academic Achievement of the Undergraduate Students in Oman http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59315
This study explored the effects of peer teaching on mathematics academic achievement of the undergraduate students in Oman. The sample of this study composed of (32) undergraduate female students enrolled in the course, "Mathematics for Social Sciences I" in Mathematics and Sciences Unit in Dhofar University in spring semester 2014-2015. The sample of the study was divided randomly into two groups, the first group was selected as experimental group (16) students and the other group was selected as control group (16) students. Both groups studied the same curriculum, same materials, and both groups had been taught by the same instructor. Data were collected by using, Mathematics Achievement Test (MACT) which was prepared by the researchers. In order to analyze data, researchers used mean, standard deviations, and Analysis of t-test. The result of the study found that peer teaching strategy is an active tool to increase the mathematical achievement. The study recommended the instructors and college professors to use peer teaching in order to improve the performance of the students in mathematics.
 Ra'ed Abdelkarim Reem Abuiyada Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 124 10.5539/ies.v9n5p124 Perceptions of Safety Knowledge and Skills in Vocational Training http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59316
This research aims at investigating the perceptions towards safety knowledge and skills and perceived efficacies among flight attendants onboard. Many studies have reported deficiencies in vocational training among flight attendants to handle specific onboard emergencies, but these findings are not surprising as knowledge and skills that are not put into active use have been shown to deteriorate or decay significantly even over very short intervals. To further understand the issue, an In-flight Safety Assurance Model is presented and data were collected and analyzed following this model. The findings revealed low perception and efficacy levels which highlight the need to establish Continuous Professional Development programs through making use of educational technology and multimedia.
 Zakaria Bani-Salameh Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 133 10.5539/ies.v9n5p133 The Relationship between English Language Proficiency, Academic Achievement and Self-Esteem of Non-Native-English-Speaking Students http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59317
The present study aims to find out the relationship between English Language proficiency, self-esteem, and academic achievement of the students in Abu Dhabi University (ADU). The variables were analyzed using 't' test, chi-squire and Pearson's product moment correlation. In addition, Self-rating scale, Self-esteem inventory and Language proficiency tests were used to measure the variables. The data were collected from 200 male and female students from Abu Dhabi University. The study could not find out any positive relationship among the variables. It is also revealed that language fluency (IELTS) has no direct impact on the ADU students' self-esteem scores and academic achievement (GPA).
 Smitha Dev Sura Qiqieh Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 147 10.5539/ies.v9n5p147 The Developing on Awareness of Water Resources Management of Grade 6 Students in Namphong Sub-Basin http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59318
Awareness of water resources management is expression behavior as receive, response, valuing, and organization. Water resources is an important for everyone in the world and the recently water resources are be risky as lack of water, waste water, and blooding. The development on awareness of water resources management for grade 6 students is very important to solve immediately. The objectives of this research were to 1) compare grade 6 students' awareness and comprehension of water resources management after developing 2) compare grade 6 student's awareness and comprehension of water resources management after developing between irrigated area and non- irrigated area. The research was quasi-experimental design. The samples of control group were 31 students and 61 students were experimental group. Research instruments were the curriculum for developing awareness of water resources management, water resources management comprehension test, and assessment form for awareness of water resources management. Data analyzed were used descriptive statics for mean, standard deviation, and independent t-test used for comparing mean scores of pretest and posttest. The research found that the pretest and posttest of students' awareness of water resources management and comprehension were significantly different at .05 levels. The compare mean between students' awareness and comprehension in irrigated zone and non-irrigated zone were not significantly different at .05 levels.
 Lumyai Seehamat Unchalee Sanrattana Angkana Tungkasamit Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 156 10.5539/ies.v9n5p156 Does Problem-Based Learning Improve Problem Solving Skills?—A Study among Business Undergraduates at Malaysian Premier Technical University http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59319
Problem-based Learning (PBL) approach has been widely used in various disciplines since it is claimed to improve students' soft skills. However, empirical supports on the effect of PBL on problem solving skills have been lacking and anecdotal in nature. This study aimed to determine the effect of PBL approach on students' problem solving skills using a quasi-experimental non-equivalent group pretest–posttest design. Fifty management students from a premier Technical University in Malaysia were assigned to experimental and control groups. In the experimental group, students were given four problems to be solved and their solutions of the problems given were assessed in terms of their accuracy and quality. Students in the control group received conventional classroom instructional design. Results indicate that students in the experimental group have better problem solving skills (z: -4.220, p: 0.001 for accuracy and z: -2.594, p: 0.009 for quality) compared to those who were not exposed to the PBL approach. This finding substantiates the use of PBL as an effective instructional tool to improve students' problem solving abilities.
 Z. Abdul Kadir N. H. Abdullah E. Anthony B. Mohd Salleh R. Kamarulzaman Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 166 10.5539/ies.v9n5p166 The Extension of Cultural Dominance in Iran with the Establishment of New Schools in Ghajar Period http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59321
Since the beginning of 19th century, England for political reasons tried to make relations with Iran. Englishmen besides political tricks tried to establish their trace in Iran society by cultural permeation. European religious commissions who proceeded in different parts of the world since 19th century, though apparently had religious motivations, but they actually became grader of colonization. The aim of this text is to determine quality of establishing such schools and their function in extension of England s permeation which is performed with trend study and documentary methods and by using the content of itineraries, memories and other firsthand resources. This study showed: religious schools were a way of cultural permeation of England in Iran in Ghajar period. These schools not only by training Iranian teenagers in western method made them strange with their national culture and in some cases utilized graduates of these schools for their own objectives, but also, sometimes in competition with each other effected on creating social crisis.
 Mohammad Piri Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 173 10.5539/ies.v9n5p173 The Study of Relationship between Organizational Culture and Organizational Belonging in Employees of Varamin County Office of Education http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59322
The purpose of the present research is to study the relationship between organizational culture and organizational belonging among employees of Varamin County ministry of education. This is a descriptive-survey study. The statistical population is consisted of all 274 official and contract employees of ministry of education in Varamin County of Tehran province with high school diploma, associate or bachelor's degree or higher. Sampling has been done using relative stratified method. Measurement instruments are: A) organizational culture questionnaire, and B) organizational belonging questionnaire. To assess the validity of the questionnaires the content validity method has been used. To assess their reliability, the questionnaires have been tested on samples of 30 individuals and the Cronbach's Alpha for the questions has been calculated. Cronbach's alpha is 0.91 for organizational culture questionnaire, and 0.85 for organizational belonging questionnaire. These values indicate high reliability for both questionnaires. The results indicate that the prominent dimension of organizational culture in Varamin administration of education is control, and that the employees have moderate organizational belonging. Study of the relationship between dimensions of organizational culture and organizational belonging reveal that there is a significant correlation between organizational belonging and variables of personal innovation, responsibility, leadership, coordination and managerial support. However, no significant correlation has been observed between the variable of control and employees' organizational belonging. Also there is a positive correlation between organizational belonging and variables of organizational identity, reward and punishment system, opposition, and communication pattern in employees of Varamin office of education.
 Seyed Mahmoud Tabatabaee Amirhasan Koohi Abbas Ghandali Tayebeh Tajik Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 183 10.5539/ies.v9n5p183 Academic Leadership in a Private University: An Iranian Case Study http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59323
This study explores effective academic leadership as well as hindrances within Iran's private higher educational institutions. The author employed a qualitative approach that utilized purposive sampling to collect and analyze data. Findings were categorized into three classes comprising the (i) setting of direction, (ii) organizational and (iii) staff development at three administrative levels: central office, branch office and faculty personnel. Obstacles confronting effective academic leadership were identified as (i) centralization of power; (ii) bureaucratic hierarchy; (iii) budgetary restraints; (iv) ineffective interaction including ineffectual communications as well as social, political and cultural interventions; and (v) unqualified staffing policies that eschewed meritocracy. This study reveals that the functional purview of an effective academic leader is to drive an institution's vision forward towards achievement and define its mission and objectives. Moreover, it signifies an indispensable need for academic leadership development programs that incorporate, protect and support scientific management skills based on sound moral values, mutually established trust, collegial respect, and the application of transactional cum transformational governance methods in teaching, learning and research.
 Fatemeh Hamidifar Mansoureh Ebrahimi Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 193 10.5539/ies.v9n5p193 Investigation into the Prediction Level of Professional Values of Prospective Teachers within the Context of Critical Thinking, Metacognition and Epistemological Beliefs in Turkey http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/52282
The general aim of the present study is to identify to what extent the professional values of prospective teachers are predicted by the variables of critical thinking, metacognition, epistemological beliefs. The study also aims to determine which variables provide a better prediction of the professional values of prospective teachers than the others. The research study was configured in line with the predictive model through the correlational study methodology. The study sample consisted of 557 prospective teachers attending the relevant departments as identified through the non-probabilistic cluster sampling method. The multiple linear regression analysis was employed in the analysis of the collected data through the use of the "Professional Values Scale for Elementary School Teachers" (TPVS), "Metacognition Scale", "Critical Thinking Scale", "Epistemological Beliefs Scale". The research findings indicate that the totality of all variables explain 55% of the variance in the total score in TPVS, 51% of the variance in the score for respecting differences in TPVS, %39 of the variance in the score for personal, societal responsibility in TPVS, 24% of the variance in the score for opposing violence in TPVS to a significant extent. A review into the t-test scores pertaining to the significance of standardized coefficients leads to the observation that all variables except for the sub-scales of hypothesising, problem identification of the scales of assessing cognitive differences, critical thinking are able to predict the total scores for the professional values of teachers at a significant level.
 Özden Demir Ahmet Doganay Halil Ibrahim Kaya Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 204 10.5539/ies.v9n5p204 Mediation Game When the Conflict Can Be Fun to Learn—A Legal Skill Learning Tool: The Integration of Knowledge Management, Learning Theory and Serious Game Concept http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/54066
Legal justice in Thailand has been shifted to restorative justice for reasons. But Thai law schools have not been changed to promote lawyering skill learning opportunities due to various obstacles and limitations caused by existing legal educational policies, law curriculum's structure, knowledgeable instructors, and learners' characteristics. As a result, most graduate law students have been faced with difficulties as regards not only their mediation skill capacity but also other legal skills. To solve the problem beyond the single loop learning, the study proposed the integration of knowledge management approaches, an appropriate learning theory, and serious game concept to initiate an alternative learning tool to enhance mediation skill learning. The study demonstrated the two crucial stages of game designing and experimentation to verify the potentiality of games in enhancing the knowledge and learning engagement. The outcome of such game designing and experimentation can provided both a satisfied interactive learning tool and a linkage for the flow of advocacy skills knowledge from the community of experts to law students who, sooner or later, will be their competent team workers.
 Chainarong Luengvilai Pitipong Yodmongkol Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 219 10.5539/ies.v9n5p219 An Effect of the Learning Environment Management System toward Student Quality of Thai Secondary School http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/54103
This study aimed at 1) investigating the element of the learning environment management system in the secondary schools, 2) exploring the current states and problems of the system on the learning environment management in the secondary schools, 3) designing the learning environment management system for the secondary schools, and 4) identifying the effects of the learning environment management system at the secondary schools. This research was the research and development (R&D). Tools employed in this study consisted of: a questionnaire, a form of opinion expression of the scholars, a form of interview, a form of system evaluation as well, a form of satisfaction evaluation. Data were analyzed by percentage, mean and standard deviation. The findings were as follows: 1) The components of the learning environment management system on outputs included: school policies, personnel, budget, materials used in the application, management as well as participation. On process, there were: environment inside classroom, environment outside classroom, information technology, class atmosphere, creation of learning and instruction and curriculum.

The outputs comprised: an increase in the learners' leaning achievement, eagerness to learn among the learners, learning resources conducive to learning of the learners, teachers' and school administrators' satisfaction as well as interaction between the teachers and learners. The feedback consisted of a report on the effects and recommendations to those concerned, application of evaluation results to be improved based on recommendations. 2) The current states of the learning environment management system in the secondary schools were at the high level while the problems of the application were at the moderate level. 3) The system of the learning environment management in the secondary schools comprised 6 sub-factors including: inside classroom environment, outside classroom environment, information technology, classroom atmosphere, creation of learning, and instruction and curriculum. 4) The effects of the system application revealed that the teachers obtained interaction with the learners at the high level. More learning resources were added to the schools. The learners gained the higher learning achievement. The school administrators and teachers were satisfied with the system on the learning environment management in the secondary schools.
 Seatuch Wirussawa Kowat Tesaputa Amporn Duangpaeng Copyright (c) 2016 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 235 10.5539/ies.v9n5p235 Academic Quality Assurance Variables in Nigerian Universities: Exploring Lecturers' Perception http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/54299
The level of job performance, international comparability and competitiveness of Nigerian university graduates are burning issues. Consequently, the academic quality of Nigerian universities has come under severe criticism. Since university lecturers are key players in quality assurance in universities, this study explored their perceptions of variables important to quality assurance in Nigerian universities. Five hundred lecturers from public universities in the South-South geopolitical zone responded to a 25-item survey. Five research questions were framed and descriptive statistics were used in analysing and presenting the data. The result showed that lecturers perceived availability of adequate number of qualified staff, students' attitude to study, early publication of students' examination results, availability of well-equipped laboratories and workshops, and funding of tertiary education as the most important variables in academic quality assurance.
 Eucharia O. Obiekezie Regina I. Ejemot-Nwadiaro Alexander E. Timothy Margaret I. Essien Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 247 10.5539/ies.v9n5p247 Alternative Frameworks of the Secondary School Students on the Concept of Condensation at Submicroscopic Level http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59325
The study was carried out to identify the alternative frameworks on the concept of condensation at submicroscopic level among secondary school students (N = 324). Data was collected by using the qualitative method through the Understanding Test on the Concept of Matter at Submicroscopic Level which consisted of 10 open-ended questions. The analysis of contents showed that the students' alternative frameworks on the concept of condensation at submicroscopic level are divided into three categories namely the explanations with the alternative frameworks at submicroscopic level, the limited explanations at macroscopic level and no explanation. This article discussed the alternative frameworks of the first category only, namely the explanations with the alternative framework at submicroscopic level while the second and third categories are discussed in the second part of the article. In summary, some implications on the teachings are recommended in order to enhance the understanding of the students on the concept of condensation at the submicroscopic level.
 Nurdiana Abdullah Johari Surif Syuhaida Ismail Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 255 10.5539/ies.v9n5p255 The Efficiency of a Selective Training Program on the Development of Some Social Skills of Saudi Students with Autism http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59326
The objective of the present study is to find out the efficiency of a selective training program on the development of some social skills of Saudi students with Autism. The study sample comprised of (6) male students with Autism who aged (9-12) years, with an average age of (10.58) years, and a standard deviation of (1.16) years. Their IQ ranged on the Stanford-Binet Scale between (67-78) degrees, with an average of (72.17) degrees, and a standard deviation of (4.16) degrees. Their grades on Childhood Autism Rating Scale were between (30-36.5), with an average of (33.67) and a standard deviation of (2.48). The study sample is divided into two groups, one of them is an experimental group that comprised (3) students and the other is a control group that comprised (3) students. The sample also comprised of three teachers of these students. The researcher prepared Social Skills Scale for students with Autism, Childhood Autism Rating Scale translated and revised by Al-Shammri and Al-Sertawi (2003), and a selective training program prepared by the researcher. The results showed that the selective training program which is used in this study was effective on improving the social skills of the Saudi students with Autism.
 Ibrahim A. Alothman Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 265 10.5539/ies.v9n5p265 Reviewer Acknowledgements for International Education Studies, Vol. 9, No. 5 http://www.ccsenet.org/journal/index.php/ies/article/view/59336 Reviewer acknowledgements for International Education Studies, Vol. 9, No. 5, 2016. Chris Lee Copyright (c) 2016 International Education Studies 2016-04-26 2016-04-26 9 5 279 10.5539/ies.v9n5p279


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Free Charity PatternsFind a CharityRegister a CharityYour Charity StoryRead StoriesFree Prayer Shawl Cards
While so many of us love making things for
ourselves and our families, many in the Lion community go further,
creating for those in need. Join us in this section and be touched by
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A co-worker and I crochete. I was given large bags of yarn from a neighbor whos Aunt passed away. I made a few blankets for the family members. Then I was wondering what I was going to do with all the yarn. So I sarted making hats, I mentioned to my co-worker that I was making hats for the homeless so she decided to get involved. We already have over sixty hats made our goal is 100. Then if there is any yarn left over I plan on making scarfs also. My question is, do you know of a place where we can donate them for next year where they will be of good use ? Either homeless or needy. Please let me know. Again thanks for any help you can give us. We sure enjoy doing for othes. We are both Nurses Aides, and work in a Nursing home. I myself over the past year has made many blankets for the residents, it sure makes me feel good when I see those smiles upon their faces. I am a giver not a reciever. I enjoy doing for others. Bless you all- again thanks for any information you can give to me. Sincerly Charlene


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First Aid Kit have announced their most ambitious UK tour to date in September, calling at Glasgow, Belfast, Manchester, Bristol and rounded out off with an appearance at the hallowed environs of the Royal Albert Hall on 24th September.
On 9th June, the Swedish duo make their Columbia Records debut with their third album, Stay Gold. Sisters Klara and Johanna Söderberg have honed their musical skills and blossomed as vivid storytellers in creating an ambitious 10-song collection. The album was recorded at ARC studios in Omaha and produced by Mike Mogis (Bright Eyes, Monsters of Folk) and arrangements were by Nate Walcott (Bright Eyes, Broken Bells, Rilo Kiley).
This event takes place at Royal Albert Hall, which has achieved Silver Status for disabled access from Attitude Is Everything.
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The Swedish duo First Aid Kit comprises sisters Johanna and Klara Söderberg. Their album 'The Lion's Roar' entered the top 40 in the UK and sold 100,000 copies worldwide in the first six weeks of release. They have worked with Jack White, sung for Patti Smith and toured with Bright Eyes and Lykke Li.
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I just added a 3TB SATA hard drive to my Windows 7 x64 machine. After formatting it, it seemed to work for a couple of hours until I got a BSOD. 10 minutes later, another BSOD, this one saying memory management issues. Both times after starting back up I had a message saying there was a problem with overclocking, however, I haven't overclocked my machine.
Anyhow, the machine didn't boot up after that, I couldn't even get the post screen for a while. I unplugged the drive and still no post screen, no beeps, nothing. Eventually for no reason it started up, i went into safe mode and did a System Restore. The machine froze when booting back up afterward.
This is where I am now. Trying to boot up again but no luck. Can anyone shed some light on what is going on?
EDIT (from comment):
I've managed to get into the BIOS, didn't see anything wierd, but I wouldn't really know. Exited without saving to a nice "bootmgr is missing" message. Back into the BIOS and it seems boot order has changed with some stuff missing. Still don't know what is going on.
So I did a memory test that said I have a hardware issue. Then i tried testing each stick of RAM individually. All passed. Then I tried testing a single stick in each dimm. All passed. Now i'm trying combinations, however don't really understand how a combination wont work when everything works individually. On another note, I guess the hard drive installation and my memory issue must just be coincidental?


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TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – April 13, 2011 --
The Florida Senate Judiciary Committee today passed Senate Joint Resolution 1218, which proposes the elimination of discriminatory language in the Florida Constitution.
"As it is currently stated the Florida Constitution is discriminatory, treating people differently because of their beliefs," said Senator Thad Altman, R-Rockledge, sponsor of the joint resolution. "This discriminatory language dates back to 1885 – passing this resolution helps to finally remove something that is long overdue."
Private, faith-based organizations can often provide valuable services for less money than the public sector, therefore lowering government costs for taxpayers. However, current constitutional language prohibits the state from tapping into these potential resources. Archaic constitutional language goes beyond limiting educational options and higher education scholarships. It limits other secular benefits such as healthcare services, foster care and homeless shelters. If approved by Floridians, the Religious Freedom Act would allow individuals the choice to participate in public programs through a religious provider.
"This resolution does not direct any state funds to faith-based organizations," added Altman. "It just allows Floridians to vote on a measure which would broaden their choices for services. In light of the state's current economy, we should allow Floridians the option to seek services that benefit personal and community wellbeing from more private providers, whether they are religious organizations or not."
Companion legislation, House Bill 1471 sponsored by Representative Scott Plakon, R-Longwood, is moving through the Florida House of Representatives. To learn more about the Religious Freedom Act, visit www.flsenate.gov.


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: Research:
[NDS] Pokémon Black Version 2/White Version 2 Opening Cinematic
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October 28th, 2012 (10:11 AM). Edited October 28th, 2012 by Bond697.
Join Date: Oct 2008
Posts: 28
a good amount of the twl sdk is exactly the same as the nitro sdk aside from some adjustments to the card and filesystem libraries. there are differences in other libraries though, i occasionally have to make up a name for a function. the "i" functions are internal to the devkit only, not for use by app developers. they're not dsi-related. internal functions in the nitro system, wifi system, sdk, and other libraries are marked with the library name and then an "i" are internal.
btw, just for the sake of trivia, the entire set of modelling programs usable with the nitro system are 3dsmax, maya, si3d, and xsi. some of the stuff i thought was different modelling programs are actually general-purpose for the listed programs.
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Here's your daily dose of an indie film in progress; at the end of the week, you'll have the chance to vote for your favorite.
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Make birthdays and other special occasions more memorable by easily crafting tasty, healthier cakes with the Circulon Nonstick Bakeware 9-Inch Round Cake Pan. This innovative nonstick bakeware helps cakes release intact, so every tender bite makes it to the cake stand with less pan greasing. With heavy-duty carbon steel construction, the cake pan provides uniform heat distribution, and rolled pan edges offer extra strength and long-lasting warp resistance. The TOTAL® Food Release System combines raised circles with PFOA-free premium nonstick for a baking surface that reduces pan abrasion and is both metal utensil safe and easy to clean with exceptional performance. This cake pan is ideal for creating a lightened pineapple upside down cake, giant oatmeal chocolate chip cookie or even a deep-dish pan pizza. Wide handles provide a confident grip, and the pan is oven safe to 450°F. Combine this cake pan with other items from the Circulon collection to enhance your healthy baking solutions.
Delicious birthday wishes and more come sweet and true, with the Circulon Nonstick Bakeware 9-Inch Cake Pan.
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It's strong and heavy, so carbon steel pans are durable and hold their shapes well.
The Lifetime Limited Warranty guarantees your product to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal household use for the lifetime of the product. Meyer Corporation U.S. promises the original purchaser replacement of any defective part or item during the guarantee period. Should the item be discontinued, a similar item will be substituted.
Scratches, stains, discoloration or damage caused by the use of cooking sprays or overheating are not covered by this warranty. Additionally, this warranty does not cover damage caused by accident, misuse, abuse, damage caused by automatic dishwasher, commercial use or incidental or consequential damages.
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RIP, Dinger
There have been a lot of celebrity deaths lately but none have hit me as hard as this one. Dinger the home run dog of the Myrtle Beach Pelicans died last week. He was a great dog and it was always a pleasant experience to pet him whenever we went to a home game. He […]Tags: dinger, myrtle beach pelicans
EGC Clambake For June 18, 2006
Here is the Bittorrent link and direct MP3 download for the EGC clambake for June 18, 2006. I talk about a very important change in my life; I play a song by the Sharp Things; I discuss net neutrality and market forces; I play a net neutrality protest song by The Broad Band; I play […]Tags: myrtle beach, myrtle beach pelicans, rosie perez, sharp things, sonic youth, the broadband, yo soy boricua


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Things to see and do - Lleida
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1 Seu Vella
Religious buildings
Roca Mitjana E - 25002 Lleida
The cathedral dedicated to St Marie is on a wonderful site, La Roca Mitjana. The church is a masterpiece of the Romanesque school of Lérida with its historiated capitals. In the 13-14C cloister, we find Islamic influences in the decoration with a veg..
2 Museu de Lleida Diocesa i Comarcal
Museums and art
Sant Crist 1 E - Lleida
This museum offers a chronological tour of the region's history and art. First, from the Bronze Age to the Muslim period (remains of the archaeological site of Genó and the Roman Villa del Romeral; the Visigoth baptistery of El Bovalar; quartz pieces..
3 Iglesia
Religious buildings
E - 25002 Lleida
Incorporated into the Seu Vella, the church is built in a transitional style (13C) as is shown by its remarkably varied capitals. Those in the apses and the transept illustrate themes from the Old Testament, while those in the nave and aisles favour ..
4 Claustro y campanario
Religious buildings
E - 25002 Lleida
The cloisters' unusual position in front of the church is probably due to topographical reasons. Begun in 1278, they were not completed until the 14C. The size of the bays and the beautiful stone tracery, different in each case, invariably impress vi..
5 Sant Llorenç Church
Religious buildings
E - 25002 Lleida
This 13C church is a mixture of Gothic and Romanesque styles with large Gothic retables of St Ursule, St Lucie, St Peter and St Laurence, to whom a large coat of arms is attributed at the end of the representation of his life.
6 Seu Nova
Religious buildings
E - 25002 Lleida
The New Cathedral is a simple 18C neo-classical building with three naves. It has a simple atrium lined with three arcades on which two belltowers look. The exterior walls are decorated with fine pilasters.
7 Palau de la Paeria
Architecture, castles and historic districts
Pl. Paeria 1 E - 25002 Lleida
This remarkable 13C building houses the town hall. On the main façade five Gothic triplets can be seen with arches. In the cellar is the Museu de la Paeria, devote to local archaeology and history.
8 Santa Maria Hospital
Architecture, castles and historic districts
Pl. Catedral, s/n E - 25002 Lleida
Built in the 15C, the hospital has a bright interior patio surroundd by gargoyles and decorated with an elegant Gothic fountain with a Renaissance influence. Since 1942, this has been home to the Museu Arqueològic de l'Institut d'Estudis Llerdencs.


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Raviolo with Oozy Egg and Smoked Salmon Recipe
Filled with unctuous egg yolk, spinach, ricotta and salmon, Michela Chiappa's giant ravioli from Simply Italian are a real treat
Michela Chiappa: "We learnt about this recipe from a Michelin starred restaurant in Imola. The head chef told us that the chef he learned from used to cook this dish for the last king of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele. It's a dish that combines a number of different traditions and flavours from Emilia Romagna - tortelli, traditional erbette filling, ricotta, parmesan etc. What we love about this dish is that, for us, it mixes one of our favourite recipes - tortelli di spinaci with some British traditions - poached eggs, smoked salmon and asparagus. If you follow all the tips and instructions, you'll see this dish is a winner!"
Serves 4
For the pasta dough
- 200g tipo "00" pasta flour
- 2 large free-range organic eggs
- Extra flour and polenta, for dusting
For the filling
- 125g spinach
- 50g smoked salmon, very finely chopped
- 125g ricotta cheese
- 40g parmesan cheese, grated
- Zest of ½ a lemon
- Grating of nutmeg
- 1 egg
- 4 egg yolks, preferably Burford Brown eggs as the yolks are very orange
For serving
- 20 asparagus spears, woody ends removed
- Olive oil
- Juice of ½ a lemon
- 40g butter
- Grated parmesan
- Truffle oil
Making your filling
1. Steam your spinach until wilted, cool under cold, running water, then squeeze out all the water using your hands. Try to make it as dry as you can otherwise a soggy filling can make the pasta disintegrate when cooking.
2. Chop your spinach as finely as you can, then combine with your salmon, ricotta, parmesan, lemon zest, salt, pepper and a grating of nutmeg in a large bowl. Seasoning is down to preference, so just taste the filling and add more salt, pepper, nutmeg or parmesan until you're happy. Add 1 egg to bind, then mix until all the ingredients are combined.
3. Place your filling into a piping bag, or freezer bag (just cut the corner off before piping), and keep to one side until you're ready to fill the pasta.
Making your fresh pasta
1. Place the flour on a board or in a bowl and make a well in the centre. Crack the eggs in to the well, add a pinch of salt then with a fork, mix the egg into the flour as much as possible so it's not sticky. Don't worry if there are lumps in the dough. Keep mixing and then when crumbs form put it on a flat surface and knead together. You can also speed this up by mixing your ingredients in a food processor until they bind. Once it is all combined, knead until you have a silky smooth elastic dough. You are aiming to achieve a playdough-like texture. If your dough is crumbly (too dry) add a teaspoon of olive oil. If the dough is sticks to your hands (too wet) add a little extra flour. Cover with cling film and rest for 30 minutes.
2. If you are using a pasta roller, take tennis ball-sized amounts of dough, squash them flat with your fingers (remember to keep the rest of your dough covered with the cling film so it doesn't go dry and crusty), push them through the pasta roller on the widest setting. Fold into thirds, then repeat 3 times. Once you have a rough square shape, start working it through the machine, taking it down one setting at a time, until the thinnest setting. If your pasta is too sticky, it won't go through smoothly, so add a little flour to each side before you put it through the roller.
3. You should end up with 2 long sheets of pasta. You can also roll this by hand using a rolling pin but you'll need some serious elbow grease to get your pasta sheets really thin and wide (about 1 playing card thick).
4. Lay the pasta out flat on a floured surface. Using a 12.5cm ring cutter, mark 4 circles out on 1 of the pasta sheets. Starting 2.5cm in from the edge of the pasta, pipe a nest shape on to each circle for your egg yolk to sit in - they should be about 2.5cm high. Drop an egg yolk into each nest and add a pinch of salt.
5. Cut another pasta sheet into 4 squares big enough to drape over each raviolo. Brush the edges of the pasta circles with water, then place each one over each marked out circle. Seal tightly, gently squeezing out all the air and then cut them out using your 12.5cm ring. Make sure your pasta has no holes or gaps in it. These ravioli are very delicate because of the soft raw egg yolk inside, so they need to be properly sealed and handled with care.
6. Cut four sheets of baking paper in to squares big enough to hold each raviolo. Add a dusting of polenta to the baking paper and place one raviolo on each - this will make them easier to transport.
7. Place a large saucepan on a high heat bringing it to the boil. Once boiling, turn the heat down to a soft rolling boil.
8. Meanwhile, place the asparagus on a hot griddle pan and cook until nicely charred, turning regularly. Remove from the griddle, drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, and keep warm till needed.
9. Use the baking paper to pick up the ravioli, and place them one at a time into the water with the paper. The paper will help you lower them in gently without breaking the yolk, once in the water they should come away from the pasta and float to the surface. Cook the ravioli for around 4 minutes. While the pasta is cooking, melt your butter in a pan until it starts to bubble.
10. Divide the asparagus between 4 plates. Then, carefully remove the ravioli from the water one at a time, using a slotted spoon and place one on to each plate, on top of the asparagus spears. Sprinkle on some grated parmesan, spoon over a tablespoon of the melted butter (it should sizzle), and drizzle with a little truffle oil.
Cook's tips
- When you place your filling into your piping bag only fill it half way as it will be difficult to control otherwise. Make sure the filling goes right to the bottom of the bag and then twist the top to seal the filling at the bottom. Otherwise, when you squeeze, the filling will come out of the top instead of the bottom.
- Once you have made your ravioli, you can keep them in the fridge for a couple of hours until you're ready to cook them. They're great for a dinner party as they take minutes to cook.


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The centerpiece of DC's weeks-long Chinese New Year celebration is the parade and lion dance, which draws about 40,000 spectators as it passes through the Friendship gate in the city's Chinatown (February 10 this year). Personally, though, we'd make the trip even if just for the dumpling-making class by chef Wolfgang Puck in his restaurant, the Source, inside the Newseum.
Photo: Destination DC