bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Particle Size Analysis of Inorganic Dirt in Raw Wool
Authors: Ferrero Franco , Marchese Franco , Fornaro Giorgio
Published: July 2017

A method of analyzing the particle size of inorganic dirt in raw wool is described. This method was applied to 25 raw wool samples of different origin, type, fineness, and grease and ash content. The results show that the particle size distribution of inorganic dirt is monomodal and approaches a log-normal model. The distribution parameters such as geometric mean diameter and standard deviation were also evaluated. In all samples, the geometric mean diameter was in the range of 9 to 28 micrometers without any correlation with other raw wool characteristics.
A New Approach to the Objective Evaluation of Fabric Handle from Mechanical Properties
Authors: Pan N. , Yen K. C. , Zhao S. J. , Yang S. R.
Published: July 2017

The subject of fabric primary handle evaluation is discussed in this paper. Some problems existing in Kawabata's system for primary hand values are revealed, which are considered inevitable in an approach involving subjective sensory assessment. Based on the same theory introduced in Part I, a new proposal for the objective evaluation of primary handle is presented by which the necessary and sufficient number of primary handle terms and the corresponding primary handle values are obtained. The methods and results of determining and testing the physical meanings of these primary handle terms are also provided.
Effect of Chemical Treatment on Mechanical Properties and Moisture Regain of Jute Fibers
Authors: Varma I. K. , Krishnan S. R. Anantha , Krishnamoorthy S.
Published: July 2017

We report on the moisture regain, relative vapor pressure, hysteresis, and mechanical properties of two varieties of jute fibers. Corchorus capsularis grade 2 and Corchorus olitorius grade 2, modified by treatment with sebacoyl chloride, tolylene diisocyanate unsaturated polyester resin, vinyl ester resin, γ-aminopropyl trimethoxy silane, and isopropyl triisostearoyl titanate. All the treated fibers showed a reduction in moisture regain, but some fibers had superior moisture repellent behavior with no deterioration in their mechanical properties, while others suffered a loss in mechanical properties.
The Experiences of Youth Who Identify as Trans* in Relation to Health and Social Care Needs: A Scoping Review
Authors: McCann Edward , Keogh Brian , Doyle Louise , Coyne Imelda
Published: July 2017

There is an increased interest in the experiences of youth who identify as trans* to promote individual human rights and provide socially inclusive health and social care. This scoping review aimed to explore the experiences of youth who identify as trans*. A full search of relevant electronic databases was undertaken from the years 2006 to 2016. The search resulted in 1,656 hits and following the application of rigorous criteria, 20 papers were included in the final review. Date extraction was executed by two of the authors and a quality assessment tool was used to review the papers. The data were analyzed, and the key themes that emerged included the following: stigma, discrimination, and mental health; family relationships and supports; educational concerns; health care experiences; and vulnerability and health risks. The findings from the review are discussed, and the implications for policy, research, education, and practice are highlighted.
Identifying Novice Student Programming Misconceptions and Errors From Summative Assessments
Authors: Veerasamy Ashok Kumar , D'Souza Daryl , Laakso Mikko-Jussi
Published: July 2017

This article presents a study aimed at examining the novice student answers in an introductory programming final e-exam to identify misconceptions and types of errors. Our study used the Delphi concept inventory to identify student misconceptions and skill, rule, and knowledge-based errors approach to identify the types of errors made by novices in Python programming. The students' responses to each question were scrutinized by using the Delphi concept inventory, heuristic-analytic theory, and neo-Piagetian theory of cognitive development for qualitative data analysis. Moreover, the motivation for this exploratory study was to also address the misconceptions that students held in programming and help educators to redefine the teaching methods to correct those alternative conceptions. Student misconceptions were spotted in list referencing and inbuilt functions in Python. In a further quantitative analysis, the study found that students who had misconceptions made knowledge errors and failed to complete the coding tasks. Surprisingly, and coincidentally, it was identified that only a few students were able to write code related to mathematical problems.
Toward a New Model of Usability: Guidelines for Selecting Reading Fluency Apps Suitable for Instruction of Struggling Readers
Authors: Rinehart Steven D. , Ahern Terence C.
Published: July 2017

Computer applications related to reading instruction have become commonplace in schools and link with established components of the reading process, emergent skills, decoding, comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency. This article focuses on computer technology in conjunction with durable methods for building oral reading fluency when readers struggle. The article offers guidelines to enhance the likelihood that for the selection of technology will be congruent with effective practice. Finally, we suggest a model for usability for parents, teachers, and designers to create better and more functional instructionally oriented applications.
Smartphones
Authors: Barchilon Ben-Av Mercedes , Ben-Av Radel
Published: July 2017

Recently, there is an explosive growth of smartphone availability. In this work, we studied how mobile and Internet-based Student Response System improves the learning process. We used a free software application (Socrative©) to create a set of questions that can be deployed during the class. It was used in four different courses in three different academic colleges. The students were asked to evaluate the contribution of this tool to their own learning process. Participation was usually very high and introducing this tool encouraged continuous learning. It also enabled a better feedback to the teacher about the class level.
Task-shifting of orthopaedic surgery to non-physician clinicians in Malawi: effective and safe?
Authors: Wilhelm Torsten J , Dzimbiri Kondwani , Sembereka Victoria , Gumeni Martin , Bach Olaf , Mothes Henning
Published: July 2017

There is a shortage of orthopaedic surgeons in Malawi. Orthopaedic clinical officers (OCOs) treat trauma patients and occasionally perform major orthopaedic surgery. No studies have assessed the efficacy and safety of their work. The aim of this study was to evaluate their contribution to major orthopaedic surgery at Zomba Central Hospital. Data about orthopaedic procedures during 2006–2010 were collected from theatre books. We selected major amputations and open reductions and plating for outcome analysis and collected details from files. We compared patients operated by OCOs alone (‘OCOs alone’ group) and by surgeons or OCOs assisted by surgeons (‘Surgeon present’ group). OCOs performed 463/1010 major (45.8%) and 1600/1765 minor operations (90.7%) alone. There was no difference in perioperative outcome between both groups. OCOs carry out a large proportion of orthopaedic procedures with good clinical results. Shifting of clinical tasks including major orthopaedic surgery can be safe. Further prospective studies are recommended.
A Cultural Impact of Needle Exchange: The Role of Safer-Injection Mentors
Authors: Kelley Margaret S. , Murphy Sheigla , Lune Howard
Published: July 2017

We examine one way in which needle-exchange services in the San Francisco Bay Area have affected needle-sharing and sexual-risk behaviors for injection drug users. We interviewed, qualitatively and quantitatively, 244 participants. Our analysis focuses on comparisons in HIV/AIDS-risk behaviors for a subcategory of “new” injectors: those initiating after the introduction of needle-exchange services in 1988 (n=57). We found that some new injectors benefited from the presence of “safer-injection mentors.” That is, those with someone to teach them harm reduction from their initiation of injection drug use were somewhat more likely to report safer injection practices at the time of interview. We also found that the mentoring process included sharing of information about needle-exchange services. Our results point to evidence of the effectiveness of needle-exchange services in contributing to a culture of harm reduction for injection drug users.
Living it or Learning It: Attitudes and Beliefs about Experience and Expertise in Treatment for the Dually Diagnosed
Authors: Brown Alison Hamilton , Grella Christine E. , Cooper Leslie
Published: July 2017

This article examines mental health and substance abuse treatment providers' attitudes and beliefs regarding the relative values of academic knowledge and experiential knowledge. These two forms of “knowing” increasingly come into conflict as providers from the two service systems work together to provide services to individuals with co-occurring disorders. Data to address this issue were obtained from seven focus groups conducted with 48 substance abuse and mental health treatment providers and stakeholders in Los Angeles County. Findings suggest the tenuous role of experience-based knowledge within the emergent framework of dual diagnosis treatment and its emphasis on the professionalization of providers. The article raises concerns as to how differing, and often competing, treatment approaches affect the provision of care for this population and questions how these tensions will be resolved within efforts to increase collaboration between the two systems in providing services to dually diagnosed patients.
Ironies in the Pursuit of Well-Being: The Perspectives of Low-Income, Substance-Using Women on Service Institutions
Authors: Mulia Nina
Published: July 2017

Interest in improving low-income, drug-using women's access to and utilization of care services tends to focus on remedies to personal, structural and gendered barriers to care. In contrast, this exploratory, qualitative study of women's perspectives illustrates how institutional rules, both within and across agencies, and informal provider practices can constrain women's use of health and social services. This paper draws attention to the ways in which low-income, drug-using women respond to obstacles and interpersonal tensions they experience in service settings. As a means of pursuing their material and social well-being, the women employ forms of resistance that are both protective and potentially harmful. This paper underscores the need to recognize how service institutions are implicated in drug users' everyday struggles for well-being.
Alienation and Alcohol Use Disorder: A Thematic Analysis of Life Histories from the Lundby Study
Authors: Öjesjö Leif
Published: July 2017

The 40-year follow-up of a subset of men (N=41) from the Lundby Community Cohort indicated that the development of alcohol use disorders was related to different problem areas, including work situations. The present study examines the life stories of the 23 subjects who had been interviewed 3 times before and were alive at the follow-up. It is the accounts of (mostly former) problem drinkers about how their work and their drinking fitted together. It also illuminates how work alienation is related to social class and to alcohol-use disorders and recovery. It shows that the life course perspective can lead to a fuller understanding of the subjective experience. The alienation model might also give some clues for treatment and prevention.
Tragic Beauties: Heroin Images and Heroin Users
Authors: Duterte Micheline , Hemphill Kristin , Murphy Terrence , Murphy Sheigla
Published: July 2017

We present selected findings from “An Ethnography of Young Heroin Users” concerning media and youth-subculture influences on the initiation and continuation of heroin use among young adults ages 18–25. One hundred and two male and female participants were administered depth interviews and structured questionnaires pertaining to heroin initiation and continuation practices. A number of participants mentioned media depictions of heroin and membership in specific youth cultures in relation to their own heroin use. This complex relationship between heroin use, media, and subcultures is discussed. A common theme emerged from the depth interviews of fatalistic life outlooks, which were often linked with negative childhood experiences as well as with heroin use. Some of these young addicts romanticized heroin use and the tragedy of overdose. These findings are discussed with reference to further research and possible interventions.
Drinking and Life: The Meanings of Alcohol for Young Namibian Women
Authors: Skjelmerud Anne
Published: July 2017

Namibia is undergoing rapid changes, in transition from being an apartheid-based colony to being an independent modern democracy. Some young Namibian women express their aspirations and identity through their relationship to alcohol and the meanings they attach to drinking. For some of them, drinking is a means of expressing solidarity and equality, and heavy drinking can be understood as a protest against the lack of opportunities the new Namibia has offered them. For others, choice of drinks and drinking venues can be ways of demonstrating status and distinction. The majority of young Namibian women abstain from drinking alcohol, however, and for some of them, this abstinence is associated with a focus on their aspirations.
Comparing Drinking Patterns in Finland and Ontario (Canada)
Authors: Cunningham John A. , Mäkelä Pia
Published: July 2017

A comparison is made of drinking patterns in Finland and Ontario (Canada). Respondents in two existing population surveys, the 1996 Joint Nordic Questionnaire and the 1996 Ontario Drug Monitor, were compared on their frequency of alcohol use in the past year, frequency of heavy drinking (6+ on Nordic survey and 5+ in Ontario), and both frequency and typical quantity of beer, wine and liquor consumption in males and females. It appeared that there are fewer nondrinkers and more weekly drinkers in the Finnish sample than in the Ontario sample. Further, both males and females in Ontario consumed 6+ drinks on one occasion more frequently than their Finnish counterparts. However, examination of the patterns of beer, wine and liquor consumption, particularly the distribution of very heavy drinking days (e.g., 12 or more drinks of liquor on one occasion), indicates that there is some evidence for periodic heavy drinking in Finnish males. Contrary to expectations, Canadian and Finnish drinking patterns appeared fairly similar. However, there was some evidence for a higher prevalence of binge drinking by Finnish men as compared with Canadian men.
Interpretations of Survey Questions on One's Partner's Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Raitasalo Kirsimarja
Published: July 2017

This article analyzes and discusses how survey questions about partners' alcohol use, about attempts to control it, and about its problematic nature, used in the 2000 Finnish Drinking Habits Survey, are understood and interpreted. The majority of the 30 respondents interviewed for this research understood the concepts of alcohol and drinking as intended, but some respondents did not define alcohol use in the way alcohol researchers do. Drinking that was for purposes other than drunkenness was not considered alcohol drinking. This confusion has important implications for alcohol survey research. Also, there was wide variation in the interpretations of attempts to control partners' drinking, and especially in interpretations of drinking-related problems. The different interpretations of drinking and problems related to it indicate the importance of defining the intended meaning of the questions in the interview situation. Identifying possible interpretations is useful in formulating survey questions related to these issues and also in planning research designs in general.
The Effect of Smoking on the Relationship between Alcohol Consumption and All-Cause Mortality in Canadian Women
Authors: Rehm Jürgen , Zhang Bo , Bondy Susan , Ashley Mary Jane , Cohen Joanna , Ferrence Roberta , Jain Meera , Miller Anthony , Rohan Tom
Published: July 2017

The protective effect of light to moderate drinking on all-cause mortality in general is well established, but there have been questions on its generalizability to women and non-smokers. The present study addresses these questions with a large cohort of Canadian middle-aged women. The key findings indicate that light to moderate drinkers have a markedly lower risk of mortality compared with current abstainers and that this effect is independent of smoking status. Part of this effect may be due to ex-drinkers who are part of the current abstainers group. Heavy drinkers have a higher mortality risk than light to moderate drinkers.
How Many People Does the U.S. Imprison for Drug Use, and Who are They?
Authors: Caulkins Jonathan P. , Sevigny Eric L.
Published: July 2017

Data from the Survey of Inmates in Federal and State Correctional Facilities, 1997 are used to estimate the number of drug-law violators in U.S. prisons solely because of their drug use and not because of involvement in drug distribution or other offenses. The estimates (5,380 to 41,047) are much lower than would be implied by naively assuming that conviction for drug possession implies no involvement in drug distribution. Implied imprisonment risk per year of use is also low, perhaps an hour per year of use for marijuana, in part because expected time served is half that for those clearly involved in drug distribution.
The Historical Roots of Ledermann's Theory of the Distribution of Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Skog Ole-Jørgen
Published: July 2017

Ledermann's theory of the distribution of alcohol consumption in populations, which was published in 1956, is reviewed and discussed. The theory is based on some rather peculiar hypotheses, and an attempt is made to make sense of these hypotheses in light of Ledermann's research prior to 1956. The central question posed in this paper is what made Ledermann believe that strong regularities were to be expected. Furthermore, Ledermann's empirical data are scrutinized, and it is concluded that most of the data were inadequate for testing a distribution model which should be applied to the general population in different drinking cultures.
A Community Perspective of Cocaine Use in Ireland: A Brief Exploratory Study
Authors: Van Hout Marie Claire
Published: July 2017

The emphasis of this exploratory research was on documenting perceptions of the extent of cocaine use in an inner city community (of 4,000 households) in Ireland. The study was undertaken due to rising community concern of apparent increasing pervasion of cocaine availability, increased cocaine use as social activity and the destructive impact on both individual and community context. Interviews were conducted with a range of informants including drug-service providers, An Garda Síochána (Irish police), youth workers, drug counselors, family support workers, general medical practitioners, hospital personnel, night-club owners, publicans, parents and carers, taxi drivers, doormen, community workers, money advice and lending services, outreach workers, prison liaison officers, politicians and a small number of key informants considered to have experience of and insight into common and preferred drug-taking practices in the community. The research pointed to the increased visibility of cocaine in the community at many levels, and an increased likelihood of intranasal cocaine use among social poly drug users, in addition to the problematic patterns (injecting and smoking cocaine) presented by those attending the methadone clinic. The level of poly drug use noted in both the methadone treatment population and those using cocaine recreationally represents a significant challenge for drug education, prevention, and treatment services in this Irish community. The perception of social and indeed problematic drug users that cocaine is a “safe” drug needs to be addressed, given the levels of risk behavior associated with injecting cocaine, with sharing of snorting and smoking instruments, and polydrug use of cocaine in combination with alcohol and other drugs.
A First Description of Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous Members in Greece: Prior Treatment History and Opinions about Professionals
Authors: Flora Katerina , Raftopoulos Antonis
Published: July 2017

Although the self-help groups of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) and Narcotics Anonymous (NA) in Greece have existed for more than twenty years, research on them in Greece is limited. This first study was conducted September 2005–January 2006 in Athens, Thessaloniki, Serres, Nafplio, Iraklio, and Katerini. The research gives a profile of the people who participate in the groups of NA and AA. Specifically, this article presents an analysis of answers concerning efforts for recovery; the kinds of help people receive, their unmet needs and their attitudes towards professionals in the field of addiction. Our final sample in this study was 22 members of the groups of AA and 60 members of NA. These findings are compared with data provided by the central organizations of AA and NA as well as by official therapeutic programs in Greece and by other researchers who have studied the same subject. The results indicate that there are needs which the groups of AA and NA do not cover. Critical attitudes towards professionals show the need for information and inter-communication between the interested sides.
Temperal Trends in Wine and Food Consumption in Italy
Authors: Cipriani Francesco
Published: July 2017

There is a strong link between drinking wine and eating meals in Italy, that can explain the decrease in wine drinking between the 1970s and the 2000s. At the end of the 1960s greater amounts of food than in the previous decade were eaten, in particular cereals, and individual nutritional requirements were met. Food consumption continued growing during the early 1970s, while traditional food items of the rural past were becoming less popular and were being replaced by new ones preferred by the newer generations. The first food item to lose in popularity was wine, followed by bread and pasta. In the 1980s and 1990s, new social and cultural tendencies emerged. Expenditures on food as a proportion of income kept going down. Again, wine consumption kept decreasing.
The Reduction of Consumption in Two Cohorts of Italian Men: Some Interpretations
Authors: Scarscelli Daniele
Published: July 2017

The majority of the interviewees in two cohorts of Italian men, aged 40–45 and 65–70, believed that their consumption patterns were similar to those they knew (who belonged to the same age group), so the lifetime consumption patterns also tended to be similar. The members of each group considered certain aspects of the consumption model to be particular to their age group, the “peak consumption model” for the younger age group, the “no-peak consumption model” for the older age group: they recognized that the factors inducing them to modify their consumption habits were common to other members of their generation.

Both models allowed us to explain the different mechanisms behind a specific course of action. In substance, the individual's choice to modify his/her own consumption style by reducing the quantity of alcohol consumed could be influenced by a status transition or need to protect his/her own health. However, the differences between the two models were explained only by adopting a historic interpretation. The situational mechanisms did not influence alcoholic behavior in different social and cultural contexts.
Alcohol in Malaysia: The Impact of Social Transformation
Authors: Kortteinen Timo
Published: July 2017

From the point of view of alcohol consumption, there are two contradicting tendencies in present-day Malaysian society. On the one hand, Western influences, including the consumption of alcoholic beverages, have gained ground along with industrialization and improved standards of living. On the other hand, Islam has become more influential in the country during the past couple of decades. These two contradict each other as far as alcohol consumption is concerned. This paper examines current alcohol consumption as well as positive and negative experiences related to alcohol in Peninsular Malaysia in light of information collected in a small Malaysian town.
The Frequency of Third-Party Involvement in Incidents of Barroom Aggression
Authors: Wells Samantha , Graham Kathryn
Published: July 2017

This paper examines the frequency and nature of third-party involvement in aggressive incidents occurring in young people's bars and the effects of third parties on incident outcomes. Observational data were collected in 12 bars frequented by young people, and telephone interviews were conducted with 31 young people who responded to advertisements posted at the university campus. In total, 154 incidents of barroom aggression were analyzed. Overall, 49% (76) of incidents included third-party involvement by other patrons. About 40% (n=31) of third-party incidents involved nonaggressive third parties, 22% (n=17) involved aggressive third parties, and 38% (n=29) involved both aggressive and nonaggressive third-party participants. Nonaggressive interventions were more likely to decrease aggression, while aggressive interventions were more likely to increase aggression (χ2=65.5, p<.0001). Females appeared to be somewhat more likely than males to intervene nonaggressively (χ2=11.3, p<.1). The intoxication levels of participants were highest in incidents involving both nonaggressive and aggressive third parties (F-ratio=4.6, p<.01). These findings suggest that third parties play a significant role in the outcome of barroom aggression among young people, and that further research is needed on the role and impact of third parties.
Experiences of Illicit Drug Overdose: An Ethnographic Study of Emergency Hospital Attendances
Authors: Neale Joanne
Published: July 2017

To date there are few available data relating to drug users' views and experiences of illicit drug overdose. This paper provides in-depth information relating to the experience of overdose that might help to inform and improve prevention of the problem and responses to it. Research was conducted in five hospitals in two Scottish cities during 1997 and 1998. Data were collected from (i) semistructured interviews with 74 drug users who had overdosed in the previous 48 hours and (ii) fieldnotes written during non-participant observation in the hospital setting. Analysis was undertaken using grounded theory (Glaser & Strauss, 1967) and was assisted by the computer software package WinmaxPro. Issues considered relate to the overdose incident; subsequent recovery; treatment received; and behavior in the hospital setting. The findings are discussed and some implications for policy and practice are considered.
Face-to-Face versus Telephone Interviews: Using Cognitive Methods to Assess Alcohol Survey Questions
Authors: Midanik Lorraine T. , Hines Alice M. , Greenfield Thomas K. , Rogers John D.
Published: July 2017

This research compares retrieval strategies and comprehension problems encountered by 30 heavier drinking respondents using protocol analysis on three alcohol use items: In the last 12 months, maximum quantity consumed in one day, frequency of drinking only one to two drinks, and frequency of drunkenness. We compare two modes of administering the questionnaire: face-to-face and telephone interviews. Results indicate that respondents in both modes used similar retrieval strategies. Anchoring (giving a response immediately) and context (describing a context in or around which drinking occurs) were most often used by respondents. Comprehension problems varied by question rather than by interview mode. The maximum quantity question was more likely to invoke issues around time frame; the one to two drinks item elicited problems concerning misinterpretation (“only” versus “at least”), and the drunkenness item was more likely to stimulate questions of definition. Overall, the findings from this study lend some support for moving from face-to-face surveys to telephone surveys in the next U.S. national alcohol survey and provide some direction for strengthening the transition.
The Araguaia Guerrilla War (1972–1974): Armed Resistance to the Brazilian Dictatorship
Authors: de Almeida Teles Janaína
Published: July 2017

The Araguaia guerrilla war (1972–1974) was an attempt to reconcile armed struggle and political awareness that became a sort of “guerrilla focus” with roots in the peasant population, which assumed a decisive role in the resistance to military repression. This period was characterized by the centralization of operations of information and repression, consolidating the tactic of “political disappearance” in Brazil. The military occupation terrorized the population to mitigate any multiplier effect of the insurgency, and its success reverberated throughout the continent. At the same time, denunciations of its human rights abuses helped to erode the dictatorship.

A guerrilha do Araguaia (1972–1974) representou um esforço para reconciliar a luta armada e a consciência política que se tornou uma espécie de foco de guerrilha com raízes na população campesina, que por sua vez desempenhou papel decisivo na resistência à opressão militar. Esse período caracterizou-se pela centralização das operações de informação e repressão, consolidando a tática de “desaparecimento político” no Brasil. A ocupação militar aterrorizou a população com o propósito de reduzir a possibilidade de insurgência e nesse sentido alcançou sucesso que reverberou por todo continente. Contudo, denúncias das violações de direitos humanos contribuíram para a erosão da ditadura.
Economic Extractivism and Agrarian Social Movements: Perspectives on Low-Intensity Democracy in the Face of the Colombian Conflict
Authors: Celis Leila
Published: July 2017

During the mid-1980s, Colombia joined the neoliberal global economy in two ways: (1) by implementing a “low-intensity democracy” made up of reforms intended to institutionalize the social protests as a response to the crisis of governance and to promote investor security and (2) by exchanging a protectionist industrialization economic model for an extractivist neoliberal one. The new progressive legislation created inclusive institutions and recognized multiculturalism and social and political rights, but these very rights are denied by the neoliberal economy, which favors big transnational capital and the physical and legal coercion that this model requires. These two pivotal elements of neoliberalism (governance and the economy) are pragmatically incompatible. The dominant class has favored the interests of powerful transnational elites and employed both legal and military avenues. Consequently, 30 years later, the social movements have been only partially and temporarily institutionalized. Active rejection of the economic model is growing. Social organizations have appropriated the concept of human rights and adapted it to their social project, the construction of a peasant economy that opposes the neoliberal one.

A mediados de los ochenta, Colombia se unió a la economía neoliberal de dos maneras importantes: (1) implementando una “democracia de baja intensidad” compuesta por reformas que pretendían institucionalizar las protestas sociales como una respuesta a la crisis de gobernabilidad y promover la seguridad de las inversiones, y (2) intercambiando un modelo económico de proteccionismo industrial por uno neoliberal y extractivista. La nueva legislación progresista creó instituciones inclusivas y reconoció el multiculturalismo y los derechos políticos y sociales, pero estos mismos derechos son denegados por la economía neoliberal, que favorece al gran capital transnacional y ejerce la coerción legal y física que requiere dicho modelo. Estos dos elementos esenciales del neoliberalismo (la gobernabilidad y la economía) son incompatibles a nivel pragmático. La clase dominante ha favorecido los intereses de poderosas elites internacionales y empleado vías tanto legales como militares. Como consecuencia, 30 años después, los movimientos sociales sólo han sido parcial y temporalmente institucionalizados. Las organizaciones sociales se han apropiado el concepto de los derechos humanos y lo han adaptado a su proyecto social: la construcción de una economía campesina opuesta a la neoliberal.
Polymeric Composites Containing Alumina Trihydrate and Silica
Authors: Mansour S. H.
Published: July 2017

Unsaturated polyester resin based on poly [1,2-propylene-maleate-phthalate] was used with styrene monomer (35% by weight) as a binder and alumina trihydrate (ATH) (Al2O3.3H2O) or silica ((SiO2), to produce polymeric composites. The effect of type and concentration of the two fillers on the physical, chemical, mechanical, thermal and electrical properties of the crosslinked (styrenated) polyester (SP) and its composites have been tested. The fire retardant efficiency of the prepared composites was also investigated.

The results indicated that the use of ATH or SiO2 as a filler reduces flammability and enhances electrical characteristics of the composites as compared to the styrenated polyester resin alone.
Synthesis of Composite Materials from Waste Fabrics and Plastics
Authors: Gowayed Yasser A. , Vaidyanathan Ragavan , El-Halwagi Mahmoud
Published: July 2017

The objective of this work is to synthesize an environmentallybenign fiber composite material. This material is made from waste fabrics and plastics. A polypropylene "PP" carpet-waste fabric was used as the candidate reinforcing material due to its good mechanical properties and abundant availability. The matrix material was chosen to be scrap polyethylene "PE". This choice was based on its market availability as a common waste (e.g., bottles, shopping bags, trash bags, etc.) and spatial compatability of its resin molecules with the chosen fabric. The surface compatability between the PP fabric and PE resin was further enhanced by promoting the "wetting" characteristics of the PP via chemical treatment of the fabirc. PP/PE composite panels were fabricated using a conventional compression molding machine and tested for mechanical properties. It was found that the PE/PP composite, with 25% fiber volume fraction, exhibited four fold increase in tensile modulus and tensile strength and 60% increase in flexural modulus when compared with similar properties for pure PE. Furthermore, a practical application for this waste composite was introduced and an economic analysis was performed to demonstrate its merits.
A Nonlinear Constitutive Model for Rayon-Rubber Composite in the Medium Strain Rate Range
Authors: Du Xingwen , Zhang Qiuhua , Wan Zhimin
Published: July 2017

Experiments indicate that rayon cord reinforced rubber (RCRR) presents nonlinear viscoelastic characteristics under either static or dynamic loading. A nonlinear viscoelastic constitutive model for RCRR in medium strain rate range is proposed. It is composed of a nonlinear differential equation with four material parameters. The experimental study on viscoelastic characteristics of RCRR for different impact speeds and temperatures was completed on special tensile impact testing equipment. A laser-grating system was designed to measure the large impact deformation. The experimental results show good agreement with the consitutive model for medium strain rate range measurements.
Dynamic Viscoelastic Properties of Silica-Filled Closed-Cell Microcellular Ethylene Propylene Diene Rubber Vulcanizates: Effect of Blowing Agent, Temperature and Strain
Authors: Guriya K. C. , Tripathy D. K.
Published: July 2017

Dynamic mechanical analysis of silica-filled closed-cell microcellular EPDM vulcanizates has been studied as a function of temperature and DSA (double strain amplitude). Experiments were carried out over a temperature range of - 1000C to 200'C. Strain dependent isothermal dynamic mechanical analysis was performed for DSA 0.08% to 5%. The effect of blowing agent loading on the storage modulus (E') and loss tangent (tan 5) are found to have a complex nature. The viscoelastic behavior of silica-filled microcellular EPDM is similar to that of solid rubber vulcanizates.
Comparison of Two Oscillating Bicone Cells for Vulcanization of Rubber Compounds
Authors: Deiber Julio A. , Bortolozzi Raul A.
Published: July 2017

This work presents the comparison of two oscillating bicone cells for the vulcanization of rubber compounds. A model is used to simulate the torque evolutions of a commercial NBR sample during the crosslinking process. In relation to cell geometries, the ratio between heat transfer area and sample volume affects the thermal history to which the sample is subjected. The temperature evolution has a strong effect on the vulcanization kinetics and the storage modulus, over time. The Theological characterization of materials through extensive properties, like torques, is not suitable to obtain conclusions that are intrinsic to the sample. Therefore, the use of a thermo-rheological and kinetic model to express the measured extensive properties into intensive ones is a primary necessity, mainly when one needs to compare samples tested with different curemeters. The model provides the interplay between rheological functions and the characteristic parameters of the rubber compound.
Quantitative Characterization of Polymer Structure by Photoacoustic Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Parker James R. , Waddell Walter H.
Published: July 2017

Photoacoustic Fourier transform infrared (PA-FTIR) spectroscopy is not a widely used analytical technique with only a few quantitative applications to polymers reported. To explore the potential use of PA-FTIR in quantitative polymer analyses the determination of vinyl acetate in EVA, acrylonitrile in NBR, ethylene in EPDM, styrene in SBR, and vinyl-butadiene in SBR were studied. The results indicate that despite the theoretical complexities of PA-FTIR, simple quantitative relationships can be found for many of these polymer analyses.
Thermostable Insulating Thermoplastic Elastomers from Rubber Polycarbonate Blends
Authors: Choudhury Namita Roy , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: July 2017

Thermoplastic elastomeric blends based on polycarbonate (PC) (30 parts) and elastomers (70 parts) of varying polarity, e.g., ethylene propylene diene rubber (EPDM), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), nitrile rubber (NBR), hydrogenated nitrile rubber (HNBR), acrylic rubber (ACM) have been studied and characterized by various methods, e.g., stress-strain measurement, surface energy estimation, thermogravimetric analysis, dynamic mechanical analysis and volume resistivity measurement. The highest tensile strength and best processability are found to be attained with the CPE/PC and HNBR/PC blends. The surface energy mismatch is also low for these systems. EPDM/PC and HNBR/PC offer excellent thermal stability. The amount of carbonaceous residue is found to depend on the elastomer structure present in the blend. The activation energy for degradation lies in the range of 210-320 kJ/mol and the order of reaction in the range of 0.8-1.2. Dynamic mechanical analysis shows existence of two separate glass transition temperatures (T.) classically associated with an immiscible system. The values of elastic modulus display a sharp change in magnitude in the vicinity of glass-rubber transition temperature and follow a linear relationship with frequency. The apparent activation energy for glass rubber transition of the blends lies in the range of 275-296 kJ/mol and that for high temperature relaxation of the polycarbonate phase lies in the range of 563-590 kJ/mole. All the blends show good electrical insulation characteristics. The amount of polycarbonate in the blend exerts a profound influence on the volume resistivity. The level of unsaturation and the polarity of the elastomer phase also affect the resistivity values.
Chain-Scission and Bleaching in Heterophasic Ethylene-Propylene Copolymers
Authors: Mani R. , Singh R. P. , Sivaram S. , Lacoste J. , Lemaire J.
Published: July 2017

The variations in the viscosity and gloss (yellowness and whiteness index) in isotactic polypropylene, heterophasic E-P copolymers and polyethylene were measured during photo-oxidation. The samples underwent extensive reduction in intrinsic viscosity [[UNKNOWN]] upon U.V. irradiation. The kinetics of oxidative degradation have also been studied using polychromatic light at 60°C in air. These parameters appear to be a sensitive criteria to characterize the photo-oxidative transformation of polymers. The course of degradation is random and the yellowing process brought by the short wavelength U.V. light is accompanied by a photobleaching reaction which is caused by the light of longer wavelengths.
Linseed Oil as a Multipurpose Ingredient in NBR Vulcanizate
Authors: Nandanan V. , Joseph Rani , Francis D. J.
Published: July 2017

Linseed oil is used in the dual roles of the plasticizer and the fatty acid component of the activator in nitrile rubber vulcanizates. The study shows that the substitution can substantially improve the mechanical properties in addition to other advantages such as increased cure rate, reduced leachability and reduced compound cost.
Characteristics of Water Extended Polyester as a Function of Basic Emulsifiers, Initiators and Contained Water
Authors: Ikladious N. E. , Doss N. L. , Mansour S. H. , Asaad J. N.
Published: July 2017

Water extended polyester emulsions based on poly (ethylene-propylene-maleate-adipate-phthalate) were prepared. The emulsion stability of the water extended polyester, using two different water percentages of 42.86 and 50 wt% with different emulsifying agents, was determined. The stable emulsions obtained for each emulsifier with water content of 50 wt% were hardened by the addition of varying concentrations of different types of radical initiators and accelerators. The water content, compressive strength and chemical resistance of the cured water composites were also studied.

It was found that the compressive strength is not only a function of percent water contained but also a function of initiator and base used.
The Influence of Cation in Organometallic Boroacylate Adhesion Promoters on Physico-Mechanical and Dynamic Mechanical Properties of Steel Cord Skim Rubber Compound
Authors: Chandra Arup K. , Mukhopadhyay R. , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: July 2017

In steel cord reinforced radial tyres, mainly a silica-resorcinol-hexamethyl melamine (SRH) system and an organometallic salt (generally boroacylate salts which are the best performers among all anions) are incorporated in order to obtain adequate adhesion and reduce the deleterious effects of the corrosion process encountered by brass coating under different hostile environments.

This paper is a report of studies on the effect of nature and concentration of the cations associated with organometallic boroacylate salts on the process-ability and physico-mechanical properties under different ageing conditions, as well as dynamic mechanical properties of steel cord skim formulations. The boroacylate salt of cobalt, nickel and zinc have been chosen for this purpose.

In general, the addition of an organometallic adhesion promoter helps in achieving a higher level of curing, enhances crosslink density, and reduces the thermal and oxidative stability of the compound. All the viscoelastic properties, viz., storage modulus (E'), loss modulus (E") and loss tangent (tan γ) are influenced by the presence of these adhesion promoters to different extents depending on the nature of the cation. Irrespective of the test frequency and temperature, cobalt boroacylate exhibits the lowest tan γ. These viscoelastic properties are also influenced by the variation of zinc ion concentration. Tan γ shows a maxima at 0.35 pphr of zinc ion. These promoters are unable to resist the compound degradation due to steam ageing. However, cobalt and nickel salts offer a degree of protection against salt ageing.
Dynamic Fracture Toughness of Cellulose-Fiber-Reinforced Polypropylene: Preliminary Investigation of Microstructural Effects
Authors: Clemons Craig M. , Caulfield Daniel F. , Giacomin A. Jeffrey
Published: July 2017

In this study, the microstructure of injection-molded polypropylene reinforced with cellulose fiber was investigated. Scanning electron microscopy of the fracture surfaces and X-ray diffraction were used to investigate fiber orientation. The polypropylene matrix was removed by solvent extraction, and the lengths of the residual fibers were optically determined. Fiber lengths were reduced by one-half when compounded in a high-intensity thermokinetic mixer and then injection molded. At low fiber contents, there is little fiber orientation; at high fiber contents, a layered structure arises. To better understand mechanisms of fracture under impact loading, dynamic fracture analysis was performed based on linear elastic fracture mechanics. Dynamic critical energy release rates and dynamic critical stress intensity factors were deduced from instrumented Charpy impact test measurements. Dynamic fracture toughness increased with cellulose content and with orientation of fibers perpendicular to the crack direction. A preliminary evaluation of a simple model relating the microstructure to the dynamic fracture toughness shows promise, but further work is needed to assess its validity.
Producing a Vision of the Self-Governing Mother: A Study of Street-Level Bureaucrat Behavior in Coproductive Interactions
Authors: Hand Laura C.
Published: July 2017

Street-level bureaucrats in social welfare programs often interact with program participants in coproductive environments where program objectives cannot be achieved without participant behavior change. In these environments, interactions are expected to help produce participant outcomes, a process that has been underexamined. This study investigates interactions and analyzes practices employed by street-level bureaucrats to encourage behavior change among program participants in two clinics in Arizona’s Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). The findings suggest that communicative practices related to encouraging self-efficacy and recognizing participant autonomy produce a mutually understood vision of a self-governing mother who is knowledgeable, disciplined, persistent, and a creative problem-solver.
High Calorie Infusion‐induced Hepatic Impairments in Infants
Authors: Hirai Yoshinori , Sanada Yutaka , Fujiwara Toshio , Hasegawa Shiro , Kuwabara Noriyuki
Published: July 2017

Hepatic impairments have been reported sporadically in infants receiving long‐term high calorie infusion. Some characteristic hepatic impairments induced with high calorie infusion at the Juntendo University Hospital, Tokyo, are studied in 18 surgical infants, with discussion of the possible etiology of this complication in the context of high calorie infusion. The hepatic dysfunctions were classified into 3 types by sequential liver function determinations: Type I with a transient and slightly elevated serum transaminase without elevation of alkaline phosphatase; Type II, an elevation of alkaline phosphatase and total and direct bilirubin without elevation of serum transaminase; Type III, a marked and prolonged elevation of aklaline phosphatase, total and direct bilirubin, and serum transaminase. The etiology of these hepatic impairments during high calorie infusion is unknown.