bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Context of Multilevel Collective Social Actions: Framing, Reflection, Resonance and the Impact of Global and Local Anti-Poverty Movements
Authors: Zemanová Štěpánka
Published: January 2010

Cultural Context of Multilevel Collective Social Actions: Framing, Reflection, Resonance and the Impact of Global and Local Anti-Poverty Movements

In political science as well as in other social sciences much attention has been paid during recent years to the rapid growth of national and transnational activist networks and their increasing impact on domestic and world politics. Together with the proliferation of literature on the topic, concepts of collective action frames, framing processes, mobilizing ideas and meanings and their cultural resonance have gained considerable currency. However, less has been written about the possibilities of and the constraints on the circulation of collective action frames or about the connection between the cultural adaptation of frames and the results of actual collective struggles. The paper explores this understudied issue both theoretically and empirically. After identifying possible links between collective action framing processes and the representational practices of particular cultures based on a review of existing theoretical approaches, the functional consequences are demonstrated by the example of the Global Call for Action against Poverty international campaign and the Czech national variant.
Cultural and Social Representations on the Border: From Disagreement to Coexistence
Authors: Fikfak Jurij
Published: January 2010

Cultural and Social Representations on the Border: From Disagreement to Coexistence

In the twentieth century, certain locations, symbols, and ritual practices along the Italian-Slovenian border were subject to various social and cultural representations. During that century, they primarily represented a subject of disagreement between both ethnic communities; however, in the last ten years, some groups and local authorities have been seeking opportunities to live together in coexistence.
Resignifying the Universal: Critical Commentary on the Postcolonial African Identity and Development
Authors: Afolayan Adeshina
Published: January 2010

Resignifying the Universal: Critical Commentary on the Postcolonial African Identity and Development

The dimension of the debate on the relation between the universal and the particular in African philosophy has been skewed in favour of the universalists who argued that the condition for the possibility of an African conception of philosophy cannot be achieved outside the "universal' idea of the philosophical enterprise. In this sense, the ethno-philosophical project and its attempt to rescue the idea of an African past necessary for the reconstruction of an African postcolonial identity and development becomes a futile one. A recent commentator even argues that works concerning African identity are now totally irrelevant and misguided. In this essay, I will be arguing, on the contrary, that the universalist's argument, much like its critique of ethno-philosophical reason, mistakes the nature, significance and necessity of such a resistance (rather than original) identity that the ethno-philosophical project promises. I will also argue that the fabrication of such an identity facilitates the avoidance of an uncritical submersion in the universal as well as a proper conception of an African development. This, furthermore, is the only avenue by which the imperialistic ontological space of universal humanism, in which most universalistic claims are rooted, can be made more polygonal and mutually beneficial for alternative cultural particulars.
The Impact of Initial Field Experience on Pre-Service Teachers' Attitude Toward Inclusion
Authors: Gill Peggy , Sherman Ross , Sherman Cynthia
Published: January 2010

The Impact of Initial Field Experience on Pre-Service Teachers' Attitude Toward Inclusion

In the United States, up to 50% of new teachers leave the profession within 5 years (Smith & Ingersoll, 2004). This unacceptable level of sustainability of the profession is of concern to both teacher preparation institutions and the local education agencies. This paper looks at one factor that may impact the sustainability of current teacher preparation models: attitudes toward inclusion of students with disabilities in the mainstream classroom. Participants in the study were currently enrolled in 3 different phases of a teacher preparation programmes at a regional university in the United States. A survey was administered at the beginning and at the end of the semester. Results indicate that students become progressively more negative toward inclusion of students with disabilities in the general education classroom yet continue to support the social value of having all students in a general education setting. Results from the survey are presented and implications for practice are discussed.
Students Motives and Satisfaction with Studies in the Area of Natural Sciences and Their Willingness to Continue Studies in Teacher Education
Authors: Poom-Valickis Katrin , Elvisto Tiina
Published: January 2010

Students Motives and Satisfaction with Studies in the Area of Natural Sciences and Their Willingness to Continue Studies in Teacher Education

Natural sciences teachers have a key role to play in creating knowledge and skills. However, Estonian students' interest in studying natural sciences and their willingness to continue studies in teacher education have decreased. This study was designed to assess: 1) how clear the students' motives to study natural sciences was; 2) how the clarity of motives relate to student satisfaction with their studies and 3) how student satisfaction with studies relate to their interest in continuing studies in teacher education. The participants of the study (N=92) were natural sciences students at Tallinn University. The data was collected using an adapted Learning and Studying Questionnaire by Entwistle et al. (2002) and questions designed by the authors of the study. The SPSS programme was used to analyse the data. The results of the study show that carefully planned curriculum selection and positive learning experiences increase student willingness to choose teacher education.
Organizing Sports around the Workplace - some Experiences from Scandinavian Company Sport
Authors: Eichberg Henning
Published: January 2010

Organizing Sports around the Workplace - some Experiences from Scandinavian Company Sport

There are different ways of placing sports in social life, and the workplace is one of them. The Scandinavian countries are internationally renowned for their particular development of company sport. This is linked to the dynamics of the Nordic welfare society and political concern about ‘public health’. On the basis of recent Danish research, current practices of company sport are examined. There is social change inside company sport, and new strata demand more and wider offers of sport in the workplace. Side by side with sport in specialized clubs, sport in local-cultural ‘popular’ associations and sport in commercial institutes, sport in the workplace, thus, has a future. This challenges the traditional division of everyday life under capitalist conditions: collective work here, private leisure there. People's health as a human right under the conditions of developing capitalism changes the agenda, also for sports.
Football Talent-Nurture after the 1989-1990 Political Transformation in Hungary
Authors: Géza Vincze
Published: January 2010

Football Talent-Nurture after the 1989-1990 Political Transformation in Hungary

Hungarian football used to be in the first line of the international arena but for the last five decades a steady and strong setback has been a characteristic feature. The main purpose of this paper is to discover the major problems related to the education of young players and to make suggestions to improve the current situation. The study is based on a research in which three different but complementary methods, called "triangulation" were used: fieldwork, content analysis and in-depth interviews. The results show that although sport had always been the area which served political interests, this situation has dramatically changed after 1989-1990. Since then moral and economic crisis could be observed and this has resulted in the collapse of the Hungarian football. Concerning the talent care program there is no a common educational project for young players. This could be explained by the lack of cooperation between professionals who believe that they have different professional and financial interests and act accordingly. In conclusion it can be stated that success could only be reached if politics and the central budget were be independent and the cooperation between decision makers and experts in football were stronger. The unskilled managers and coaches responsible for the education of young players should be exchanged for real professionals.
Violent Incidents in Greek Basketball. Referees' Perspective on the Theoretical Models of Violence
Authors: Koukouris Konstantinos , Stavros Taxildaridis
Published: January 2010

Violent Incidents in Greek Basketball. Referees' Perspective on the Theoretical Models of Violence

During the last 30 years a significant body of knowledge has been accumulated around the issue of hooliganism in professional soccer. However, very little has been said about violence in basketball, a sport that has the most incidents of violence after soccer and perhaps handball in Europe. Although an increasing number of violent incidents in basketball are reported in the mass media, research is limited. The sample consisted of 16 top Greek basketball referees, several of whom were distinguished even at an international level. The top referees were interviewed in a hotel prior to matches. The criteria for the choice of leading referees was based on their top refereeing experience (A1 division). Officials provide support for the notion that basketball is hostage to personal interests and is used as a means of pressure for the service of other aims. The theory for the social roots of hooliganism as well as the theory of frustration - aggression provide sufficient explanations for the interpretation of violence in basketball. Under work and family pressures young people become more aggressive and unload their disappointment in the sports ground, which they consider to be a suitable outlet.
Carsharing and the Built Environment
Authors: Stillwater Tai , Mokhtarian Patricia L. , Shaheen Susan A.
Published: January 2010

A geographic information system–based multivariate regression study of an urban U.S. carsharing operator compared the use of carsharing vehicles for 16 months in 2006 and 2007 to built-environment and demographic factors. Carsharing is a relatively new transportation industry in which companies provide members with short-term vehicle access from distributed neighborhood locations. The number of registered carsharing members in North America has doubled every year or two to a current level of approximately 320,000. Researchers have long supposed that public transit access is a key factor driving demand for carsharing. The results of the study, however, find an ambiguous relationship between the activity at carsharing locations and public transit access. Light rail availability is found to have a significant and positive relationship to carsharing demand. Regional rail availability is found to be weakly and negatively associated with carsharing demand, although limitations in the available data make it impossible to ascribe the observed difference to user demand, random variation, or other factors specific to the industry.
North American Carsharing
Authors: Shaheen Susan A. , Cohen Adam P. , Chung Melissa S.
Published: January 2010

Carsharing (or short-term auto use) organizations provide members access to a fleet of shared vehicles on an hourly basis, reducing the need for private vehicle ownership. Since 1994, 50 carsharing programs have been deployed in North America–-33 are operational and 17 defunct. As of July 1, 2008, there were 14 active programs in Canada and 19 in the United States, with approximately 319,000 carsharing members sharing more than 7,500 vehicles in North America. Another six programs were planned for launching in North America by January 2009. The four largest providers in the United States and Canada support 99% and 95.2% of total membership, respectively. A 10-year retrospective examines North America's carsharing evolution from initial market entry and experimentation (1994 to mid-2002) to growth and market diversification (mid-2002 to late 2007) to commercial mainstreaming (late 2007 to present). This evolution includes increased competition, new market entrants, program consolidation, increased market diversification, capital investment, technological advancement, and greater interoperator collaboration. Ongoing growth and competition are forecast. Rising fuel costs and increased awareness of climate change likely will facilitate this expansion.
Evaluation of Urban Travel Training for Older Adults
Authors: Babka Rhianna JoIris , Cooper Jill F. , Ragland David R.
Published: January 2010

The aging population in the United States is growing, and transportation is critical to maintaining the mobility, independence, and quality of life of older adults. Travel training programs designed to increase individual knowledge are one way to encourage older adults to use fixed-route transit and improve their transportation options. An analysis was conducted to explore characteristics of travel training participants in Alameda County, California, in 2007 and 2008 and their knowledge and concerns regarding public transit. Specific issues addressed include transit habits, degree of increase in knowledge after participating in the training, and factors that predict training participation. Participants in this study represent a diverse group of older adults having a broad range of transportation experience and knowledge. After participation in the travel training course, participants showed an increase in knowledge of local public transit and how to access transit information independently. The study identifies “currently driving” as a positive predictive factor for participating in the travel training course. Future travel training courses should make efforts to recruit current drivers who may wish to plan for their future mobility needs by becoming more familiar with public transit options.
Voluntary Program to Reduce Car Use
Authors: Ko Joonho , Cho Youngjae
Published: January 2010

Evaluation of travel demand management (TDM) programs is important to their success, in that it helps policy makers establish proper approaches toward policy implementation. A study attempted to assess the effectiveness of the Weekly No-Driving Day program in Seoul, South Korea, an ongoing attempt to reduce car use. Volunteer participants select days on which to refrain from car use. For the assessment, a field survey to investigate compliance rates, that is, assessing whether 6,000 vehicles or less are driven daily, was designed; at the same time, a questionnaire-based survey was conducted to determine which drivers are more likely to participate in the program. Results of the field survey suggested that daily car use was reduced by 1.3% in the Seoul area. Although this outcome seems insignificant, it is significant in that the program is voluntary and is implemented over the whole metropolitan area, with more than 2 million vehicles targeted. However, the questionnaire-based survey indicated that car-dependent drivers, who spend more time driving and operating vehicles on a regular basis, are less likely than others to participate in the program. A concern is that success could be significantly diminished if those car-dependent citizens were not encouraged to participate in the program. It is anticipated that findings from this study will contribute to improved development and implementation of future TDM programs.
Driving Factors behind Successful Carpool Formation and Use
Authors: Buliung Ron N. , Soltys Kalina , Habel Catherine , Lanyon Ryan
Published: January 2010

Sustainable transportation options are receiving increasing attention in cities across North America because of rising commute times, fluctuating fuel prices, and increased awareness of the environmental impacts of transportation choices. Carpooling represents one of many possible alternatives to single-occupancy vehicle use for work or school trips. Recent attempts to encourage carpool formation in Canada include web-based applications that facilitate connections between potential carpoolers. One such example is Carpool Zone, a service provided by Smart Commute in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton area. The service is coordinated regionally by the Smart Commute Team at Metrolinx (the regional transportation planning authority) and is free and open to the public. Data are used from Smart Commute to investigate the carpool formation and use process. Results from a logistic regression analysis of carpool use suggest that spatial accessibility to matches, household auto ownership, and sociodemographics influence carpooling more than do proximity to carpool infrastructure and personal attitudes (e.g., concern for the environment, cost). With respect to policy and planning, results suggest that increasing shared knowledge about commuting patterns at the home end of work trips could yield beneficial returns to the carpool formation and use process.
Understanding Carpool Use by Hispanics in Texas
Authors: Cline Michael E. , Sparks Corey , Eschbach Karl
Published: January 2010

The Hispanic population in Texas has increased numerically faster than any other racial or ethnic group in the past 2 decades. If these trends continue, Texas is likely to become a Hispanic majority state by 2040. Despite this change in the ethnic composition of the state, few have researched the travel behaviors of Hispanics. Logistic regression models and the 2006 American Community Survey Public Use Microdata Sample for Texas were used to explore carpooling on the journey to work among Hispanics and Hispanic immigrants in comparison with non-Hispanic whites. Influences of socioeconomic, occupational, and geographic characteristics on the propensity to carpool on the journey to work were disaggregated to test if differences in carpooling use between Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites remain. Differences in carpool use based on immigrant status were investigated. It was found that differences in carpool use remain between Hispanic and non-Hispanic whites, even accounting for socioeconomic status, occupation, and location if immigrant status is not considered. However, in accounting for immigrant status, no differences were found in carpool use between native-born Hispanics and non-Hispanic whites, while differences remain for Hispanic immigrants. Findings suggest that in the absence of improvements in the socioeconomic status of native-born Hispanics and with increased immigration, carpooling is likely to increase as a result of changes in ethnic composition.
Incorporating Climate Change Considerations into Transportation Planning
Authors: Schmidt Nicholas , Meyer Michael D.
Published: January 2010

Transportation emissions are a significant contributor to climate change. Transportation plans and related documentation of metropolitan planning organizations and international cities were reviewed to ascertain whether climate change considerations are being incorporated into the transportation planning process. The review revealed that climate change considerations were not included in a majority of cases in the transportation planning process, especially to adapt transportation systems to the potential effects of climate change. When such consideration did occur, the focus was on greenhouse gas (GHG) emission mitigation, with data collection techniques and analysis tools that were better developed and already in place within many planning organizations. A conceptual framework for transportation planning is presented and used to illustrate how some agencies have considered climate change in each step of the planning process. Recommendations are provided on how GHG emission mitigation and climate adaptation strategies can be incorporated into the transportation planning process.
Does Silence Mean Agreement?
Authors: Kojima Aya , Kubota Hisashi
Published: January 2010

The decline of response rates in attitude surveys and the nonparticipation of residents are big issues in decision-making processes for transportation planning. The existence of individuals who do not state their opinions, the silent group, disrupts smooth consensus-building processes. It is often claimed that the silent group or so-called silent majority relies on policy makers or proposed plans. This research analyzes the silent group's character in a traffic calming project conducted in a residential area. To understand the silent group's level of awareness, attitude, and preference would help identify better ways of including them in planning processes in the future. Data obtained from questionnaire surveys were used for this analysis. Nonrespondents to the surveys were defined as the silent group. First, the difference of opinions between the silent group and the nonsilent group was investigated. The result showed that the silent group was less aware of the traffic situation in the area and did not easily agree with the proposed plans. Second, the reasons for the silent group's attitude were analyzed. The result suggested that the silent group members felt less danger on roads near their houses, so they do not recognize the traffic situation of the whole neighborhood as serious. Because of the lack of awareness, the group tended to refuse questionnaire surveys. Moreover, the logistic regression analysis concluded that the silent group was less involved with survey topics that dealt with specific traffic problems and countermeasures.
Public versus Private Mobility for Low-Income Households
Authors: Gao Shengyi , Johnston Robert A.
Published: January 2010

Empirical studies have shown that welfare recipients who own cars have a high probability of moving from welfare to work. A travel demand model adopted by the Sacramento, California, Area Council of Governments was used to examine the possible impacts of car ownership promotion versus transit improvements on job accessibility, work trips, and traveler benefits at the system level. In the car scenario, the zero-car households that were assigned a car had higher job accessibility and larger positive changes in traveler benefits than those in the base case scenario. The other households had lower traveler benefits, compared with the base case, because of slight increases in congestion. In the transit scenario, all households had gains in traveler benefits, and the households without a car gained more than those with a car. The households without a car gained more in traveler benefits in the transit scenario than in the car scenario. The total gain in traveler benefits was higher in the transit scenario. In both scenarios, the changes in total travel time, congestion, and vehicle miles traveled were small, but mode shares changed substantially.
Performance of Polymer-Modified Asphalt Mixture with Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Kim Sungho , Sholar Gregory A. , Byron Thomas , Kim Jaeseung
Published: January 2010

Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) mixtures have shown good resistance to rutting for hot-mix asphalt (HMA) pavement. Mixtures with polymer-modified binders such as styrene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) have also shown good performance against rutting and cracking. This paper presents the laboratory evaluations used to determine the rutting and cracking performance of the RAP mixtures with SBS polymer-modified binders as virgin binders. The asphalt pavement analyzer (APA) test and indirect tensile (IDT) test were conducted for the laboratory evaluation. The properties of SBS polymer-modified binders blended with recovered RAP binders were also investigated. The binder tests included G*/sinδ as the rutting parameter and G*sinδ as the cracking parameter of the Super-pave® PG grade system. The multiple stress creep and recovery test, which has recently received attention as an indicator of the rutting potential of polymer-modified asphalt binders, was also performed. RAP mixtures with SBS polymer-modified binders were fabricated containing different amounts of RAP materials: 0%, 15%, 25%, and 35%. From the APA and Superpave IDT tests, RAP mixtures with modified binders showed good performance regardless of the amounts of RAP materials in HMA. Even though the parameters, G*/sinδ and G*sinδ, and the percentage of recovery indicated the different amounts of RAP binders in polymer-modified binders, the relationship between these parameters and mixture performance was not clearly identified.
Laboratory Investigation of Moisture Damage in Warm-Mix Asphalt Containing Moist Aggregate
Authors: Xiao Feipeng , Jordan Jayson , Amirkhanian Serji N.
Published: January 2010

In recent years, rising energy prices, global warming, and more stringent environmental regulations have generated interest in warm-mix asphalt (WMA) technologies as a means to decrease energy consumption and emissions associated with conventional hot-mix asphalt. In this study, a laboratory investigation was conducted of moisture damage in WMA mixtures containing moist aggregates. Indirect tensile strength (ITS), tensile strength ratio, deformation, and toughness tests were performed to determine the mixtures’ moisture susceptibilities. The experimental design included two percentages of moisture content (0% and ∼0.5% by weight of the dry mass of the aggregate), two WMA additives (Asphamin and Sasobit), and three aggregate sources. In this study 15 mix designs were performed, and 180 specimens were tested. Test results indicated that, as expected, dry ITS values were affected by aggregate moisture and hydrated lime contents, whereas a WMA additive did not significantly alter the dry ITS and toughness values. Statistical analysis showed no significant differences in the wet ITS values of WMA mixture of three types of mixtures (control, Asphamin, and Sasobit) under identical conditions (same moisture and lime contents). Statistical analysis also showed that wet ITS values, generally, were statistically different for mixtures made with various aggregate sources. The deformation resistance values of mixtures containing moisture were lower than those of mixtures made with dry aggregate. However, the results indicated that the addition of hydrated lime increased the deformation resistance of all mixtures.
Virginia's Higher Specification for Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Maupin G. W. , Diefenderfer Stacey D. , Gillespie James S.
Published: January 2010

In 2007 the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) decided to allow higher percentages–-more than 20%–-of recycled asphalt pavement (RAP) in hot-mix asphalt with no change in binder grade. For selected VDOT resurfacing projects in 2007, six contractors produced a total of 129,277 tons of mix containing 21% to 30% RAP from seven asphalt plants in four districts. This study estimated the effect of increased RAP percentages on performance and relative cost. Mixes from most of the high-RAP jobs were sampled and tested, as were mixes from roughly comparable jobs containing less than 20% RAP. Laboratory tests revealed no significant difference between the higher RAP mixes and the control mixes for fatigue, rutting, and susceptibility to moisture. Recovered binder was graded to determine the effect of adding higher percentages of RAP. No construction problems were attributed to the use of the mix with the higher RAP percentage. Slight price adjustments were applied to two of the 10 high-RAP projects, but these were not because of the higher RAP percentage. Price and quantity data from all contracts in the 2007 resurfacing schedule were subjected to statistical analysis. The specification allowing higher RAP percentages was found to have a small, statistically insignificant impact on the bid prices for surface mix items. Value engineering proposals received for jobs not advertised with the high-RAP specification showed that the use of more than 20% RAP could reduce costs in at least some cases.
A New Approach to the Computer Modeling of Amorphous Nanoporous Structures of Semiconducting and Metallic Materials: A Review
Authors: Romero Cristina , Noyola Juan  C. , Santiago Ulises , Valladares Renela  M. , Valladares Alexander , Valladares Ariel  A.
Published: January 2010

We review our approach to the generation of nanoporous materials, both semiconducting and metallic, which leads to the existence of nanopores within the bulk structure. This method, which we have named as the expanding lattice method, is a novel transferable approach which consists first of constructing crystalline supercells with a large number of atoms and a density close to the real value and then lowering the density by increasing the volume. The resulting supercells are subjected to either ab initio or parameterized—Tersoff-based—molecular dynamics processes at various temperatures, all below the corresponding bulk melting points, followed by geometry relaxations. The resulting samples are essentially amorphous and display pores along some of the “crystallographic” directions without the need of incorporating ad hoc semiconducting atomic structural elements such as graphene-like sheets and/or chain-like patterns (reconstructive simulations) or of reproducing the experimental processes (mimetic simulations). We report radial (pair) distribution functions, nanoporous structures of C and Si, and some computational predictions for their vibrational density of states. We present numerical estimates and discuss possible applications of semiconducting materials for hydrogen storage in potential fuel tanks. Nanopore structures for metallic elements like Al and Au also obtained through the expanding lattice method are reported.
Black Carbon’s Properties and Role in the Environment: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Shrestha Gyami , Traina Samuel  J. , Swanston Christopher  W.
Published: January 2010

Produced from incomplete combustion of biomass and fossil fuel in the absence of oxygen, black carbon (BC) is the collective term for a range of carbonaceous substances encompassing partly charred plant residues to highly graphitized soot. Depending on its form, condition of origin and storage (from the atmosphere to the geosphere), and surrounding environmental conditions, BC can influence the environment at local, regional and global scales in different ways. In this paper, we review and synthesize recent findings and discussions on the nature of these different forms of BC and their impacts, particularly in relation to pollution and climate change. We start by describing the different types of BCs and their mechanisms of formation. To elucidate their pollutant sorption properties, we present some models involving polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and organic carbon. Subsequently, we discuss the stability of BC in the environment, summarizing the results of studies that showed a lack of chemical degradation of BC in soil and those that exposed BC to severe oxidative reactions to degrade it. After a brief overview of BC extraction and measurement methods and BC use for source attribution studies, we reflect upon its significance in the environment, first by going over a theory that it could represent parts of what is called the ‘missing sink’ of carbon in global carbon cycle models. Elaborating upon the relationship of BC with polycyclic hydrocarbons, we show its significance for the sorption and transport of pollutants. A description of pulmonary-respiratory health effects of soot BC inhalation is followed by a discussion on its impact on climate and climate change. We explain how soot BC acts as a global warming agent through light (and heat) absorption and how it reduces the snow’s albedo and promotes its uncharacteristic thawing. On a more positive note, we conclude this review by illustrating recent observations and simulations of how pyrolytic processes can stabilize plant carbon stocks in the form of biochar BC that can sequester carbon and can help mitigate climate change, in addition to improving soil fertility.
BETWEEN SACRUM AND PROPHANUM: AUTHORITY, KNOWLEDGE, DEMOCRACY
Authors: Broda Marian
Published: January 2010

An often underestimated reference point of great importance for understanding of the contemporary social and political consciousness is the rooting of such consciousness in the structures of archaic thinking. In this light, the experience of power becomes a component of a more universal experience of sacrum: the establishment of an order, a result of the invasion of holiness – the epiphany – is considered as simultaneous establishment of the world and the truth. Sacrum, power, leadership, order, identity, truth, authority and rightness remain integrally interconnected and only the power able to satisfy such total expectations receives the real legitimization. It does not become a party to “a contract” governing the rights and obligations of each side, but rather – in a manner typical for religious or quasi‐religious act, one unconditionally gives up to such power, commits to it. The contents rooted in the archaic experience of sacrum, disguised by the historically younger cultural layers are stemming from deep layers and structures of the social conscience. In particular, in the time of crisis they reveal their presence on multiple occasions, helping various Sons of Lights on their road to power. Such persons, in the eyes of their worshippers hold the monopoly for an alleged higher, exclusive and integral Truth. The authoritarian order, de facto excluding the possibility of an authentic dialogue, becomes an alternative for the democratic citizen society – resting upon the assumptions that the individuals are free, mature and independent, willing to take the responsibility for their own fate and for the matters of their communities.
THE CONCEPTION OF CONTEMPORARY HYPERCIVILIZATION: J. BAUDRILLARD
Authors: Barevičiūtė Jovilė
Published: January 2010

The article deals with the conception of hypercivilization that was developed by contemporary French media philosopher Jean Baudrillard and discusses its originality, innovation and philosophical‐sociological validity. It is compared with the classical conception of Western civilization, highlighting their basic similarities and differences. The author investigates the relationships between classical Western civilization and traditional metaphysics and between contemporary hypercivilization and pataphysics. The first section of the article is introduced to the meaning and problematicity of the concept of civilization, analyzing the connections between the concepts of civilization and culture. The second section discusses traditional French concept of civilization. The third section analyzes and interprets the conception of hypercivilization of Baudrillard. The last one from a critical thinking perspective discusses the philosophical‐sociological validity of the conception of hypercivilization of Baudrillard, seeking for possible parallels with the conception of classical Western civilization.
The effect of institutional innovations on food chain governance: a case study on the shifting role of the German QS system from certification to supply chain coordination
Authors: Bahlmann Jan , Spiller Achim
Published: January 2010

In many European countries such as the Netherlands, France and Germany there is high division of labour in the red meat sector. In response to emerging demands for the meat industry, such as seamless traceability, increased food safety and animal welfare, the need for coordination across the stages is increasing. However, a trend towards vertical integration cannot be observed. Especially in price-competitive markets in which the production requirements are less specific, the spot market still seems to be advantageous in efficiency and costs. Largely unnoticed in research and practice, recent developments in the German meat market indicate an institutional change, allowing the maintenance of spot market structures by assigning various coordination tasks to an independent third party – the QS Qualität und Sicherheit GmbH. This association was originally founded in 2001 by shareholders from the whole of the agribusiness sector to develop a certification scheme. QS has since become the leading certification standard for the German meat industry. Based on coordination theory and empirical findings, a case study of QS GmbH was carried out. Various non-traditional certification activities that are more properly classified as functions of supply chain coordination were identified. In general, the development of QS can be considered as an institutional innovation in supply chain coordination. It demonstrates an alternative means for spot market oriented meat supply chains to deal with increasing uncertainties in the market.
Review of Exemplar Programs for Adults with Early-Stage Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Burgener Sandra C. , Buettner Linda , Buckwalter Kathleen C. , Beattie Elizabeth , Bossen Ann L. , Fick Donna , Fitzsimmons Suzanne , Kolanowski Ann , Richeson Nancy E. , Rose Karen M. , Schreiner Andrea , Pringle Specht Janet K. , Smith Marianne , Testad Ingelin , Yu Fang , Gabrielson Marcena , McKenzie Sharon
Published: January 2010

In response to the need to develop evidence-based best practices interventions and services for individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the authors conducted an interdisciplinary literature review of exemplar programs, defined as those including multimodal or unimodal interventions; shown to be appropriate for individuals in the early stages of AD; demonstrating promise to support, maintain, and improve independent functioning; and shown to have positive effects for a variety of outcomes, including quality of life. This article examines evidence from five kinds of programs: (a) multimodal interventions, (b) programs developed by the Southwest Florida Interdisciplinary Center for Positive Aging, (c) sleep enhancement interventions, (d) managed care programs, and (e) technology-based interventions. Evidence from the review suggests that a number of programs can support functioning and improve quality of life for adults living with the early stages of memory loss. The article concludes with recommendations to advance a national research agenda in this area.
DNRescue Me When It Is My Time to Die
Authors: Porter Eileen J.
Published: January 2010

EXCERPT

As a descriptive phenomenologist, I have spent many hours with older women, learning first about the experience of living alone at home and then about the experience of home care. I have come to understand their life-world in terms of features such as Acknowledging That I Do Not Have Much Time Left, as well as Hoping to See the Future I Prefer. I have also discerned intersections between these life-world elements. Some women who spoke about the inevitability of death described their preferred scenario; they were Hoping to Leave This World Like That. Knowing other older female friends who had “suffered something worse than death,” some women were Hoping Not to Linger Like She Did. Some women have shared both of these wishes and concerns. Therefore, I am not surprised when an older woman mentions the preferred scenario of her inevitable death, the dread of lingering, or both. 
Governmental Efforts to Improve Quality of Care for Nursing Home Residents and to Protect Them from Mistreatment: A Survey of Federal and State Laws
Authors: Gittler Josephine
Published: January 2010

There are many federal and state laws addressing, directly and indirectly, the quality of care provided to nursing home residents and the protection of residents from mistreatment. They include: (a) state laws that govern the licensing of nursing homes, (b) federal laws that govern the certification of nursing homes for participation in the Medicare and Medicaid programs, (c) elder abuse laws prohibiting mistreatment of older adults in nursing homes and other settings, (d) health care fraud abuse laws that are increasingly being used to combat the provision of substandard care to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries in nursing homes, and (e) laws that have established long-term care ombudsman programs to promote the health, safety, well-being, and rights of nursing home residents. While these laws are generally viewed as having improved the care and treatment of nursing home residents, much remains to be done, particularly with respect to the implementation of these laws.
Molecular phylogeny and re-assessment of some Scleroderma spp. (Gasteromycetes)
Authors: Phosri Cherdchai , Martín María P. , Watling Roy , Jeppson Mikael , Sihanonth Prakitsin
Published: January 2010

The fungal genus Scleroderma is cosmopolitan in temperate and tropical regions and forms ectomycorrhizal associations with a wide range of forest trees. To delimit phylogenetic Scleroderma species and identification, 43 basidiomes were chosen of different geographical origins and their rDNA internal transcribed spacer (ITS) were sequenced. Phylogenetic analyses of these sequences together with additional GenBank sequences identified 11 taxa. A strong phylogenetic pattern was observed related to a character of their basidiospore ornamentation.
Calongea, a new genus of truffles in the Pezizaceae (Pezizales)
Authors: Healy Rosanne A. , Bonito Gregory , Trappe James M.
Published: January 2010

Phylogenetic analysis of the ITS and LSU rDNA of Pachyphloeus species from Europe and North America revealed a new truffle genus. These molecular analyses plus sequences downloaded from a BLAST search in GenBank indicated that Pachyphloeus prieguensis is within the Pezizaceae but well outside of the genus Pachyphloeus. Morphological differences in the peridial and glebal hyphae and spores distinguish this genus from Pachyphloeus. We here propose the monotypic new genus Calongea, with the type species C. prieguensis comb. nov., in honor of Prof. Francisco de Diego Calonge, who has long studied the truffle fungi of Spain and participated in describing the type species of Calongea.
Mycological study of the El Canal y Los Tiles (La Palma, Canary Islands)
Authors: Beltrán Tejera Esperanza , Quijada Luis , Díaz Jonathan , Rodríguez-Armas J. Laura , Bañares Ángel , Leal Julio
Published: January 2010

An annotated catalogue of 66 taxa, collected in the early MAB Reserve El Canal y Los Tiles is presented. Among these taxa, 11 species are new for La Palma island and 5 are recorded for the first time in the Canary Islands. Taxonomic comments on some critical species and information about the distribution in the Macaronesian bioregion of all the studied taxa are given. Based on our previous publications, global data on biodiversity, substrates and distribution of the mycobiota in the different plant communities present in the sampled area are analyzed.
Mycological study Garajonay National Park (La Gomera, Canary Islands). Agaricales s.l. I
Authors: Bañares Baudet Ángel , Beltrán Tejera Esperanza
Published: January 2010

After a recent study of the fungi of the Garajonay National Park, an updated catalogue of Agaricales s.l. for this protected area is presented. Furthermore, 11 rare or poorly known species in the Canary Islands are described and illustrated.
Repetophragma calongeii sp. nov. and other interesting dematiaceous hyphomycetes from the North of Spain
Authors: Silvera-Simón Carolina , Mena-Portales Julio , Gené Josepa , Cano Josep , Guarro Josep
Published: January 2010

Repetophragma calongeii sp. nov., a dematiaceous hyphomycete found on unidentified dead wood collected in the Pagoeta Natural Park, Spain, is described and illustrated. The fungus is recognized by numerous percurrent proliferations in the conidiophores and its 12-27 euseptate, subcylindrical or subfusiform conidia. A key to species of Repetophragma without rostrate conidia is given and 18 additional dematiaceous hyphomycetes are firtly reported for Spain.
Cryptic species and species pairs in lichens: A discussion on the relationship between molecular phylogenies and morphological characters
Authors: Crespo Ana , Pérez-Ortega Sergio
Published: January 2010

As with most disciplines in biology, molecular genetics has revolutionized our understanding of lichenized fungi. Nowhere has this been more true than in systematics, especially in the delimitation of species. In many cases, molecular research has verified long-standing hypotheses, but in others, results appear to conflict with existing morphological species concepts. This work reports on recent progress regarding two main issues: (i) cryptic species, i.e., two or more independent lineages exhibiting similar morphology; and (ii) species pairs, two species with similar morphology but exhibiting different reproductive modes. Both concepts have in common a lack of correlation between phylogenetic and morphological data, at least for characters normally used in lichen systematics. We review the available literature on cryptic species and species pairs, focusing especially on the family Parmeliaceae (Lecanoromycetes, Ascomycota). Molecular data have repeatedly demonstrated the existence of cryptic species in lichenized fungi, although taxonomists have often been slow to recognize the resulting taxa. However, careful observation of fine-scale morphological, ecological and/or geographical features tends to provide support for the recognition of these species. In the case of species pairs, by contrast, few if any of the pairs studied to date have been confirmed to consist of independent lineages. Differences in reproductive mode alone appear not to be a sufficient reason to recognise new species.
Four Tuber species accompanying T. mesentericum in natural sites in Poland
Authors: Ławrynowicz Maria
Published: January 2010

Tuber rufum Pico: Fr., T. ferrugineum Vittad., T. maculatum Vittad. and T. fulgens Quél. have been identified among hypogeous fungi occurring together with T. mesentericum in natural sites in the Cze¸ stochowa region (S Poland). All these species have been recorded in this locality for the first time; T. ferrugineum and T. fulgens are new to Poland. Descriptions of the materials collected, scanning electron micrographs of spores, as well as comments on chorology of the species are provided in the paper.
Estado actual del conocimiento de los mamíferos fósiles de Chile
Authors: Canto Jhoann , Yáñez José , Rovira Jaime
Published: January 2010

Se presenta una revisión de los mamíferos fósiles de Chile, de ambientes terrestres y acuáticos, conocidos hasta el año 2008; no se consideran aquellos registros de dudosa asignación o que no pudieron ser localizados. Los registros son agrupados en cuatro rangos temporales que se distribuyen a partir del Eoceno tardío–Oligoceno temprano hasta el Pleistoceno–Reciente. Se evidencia que la mayor cantidad de registros fósiles se concentra en el lapso Mioceno inferior a Mioceno medio, llegando a 37 (41,5%) géneros de un total de 77 y 54 (49,5%) especies fósiles de un total de 89. Se comprueba un aumento significativo de trabajos sobre paleontología en mamíferos fósiles en Chile entre 1981-2008.