bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond music lessons: subject teachers' use of music in the classroom
Authors: Lum Chee-Hoo
Published: December 2008

In this ethnographic study, the mother-tongue (Chinese, Malay, and Tamil) language teachers of a first-grade class in Singapore were examined for their incorporation of music and musical elements in their daily teaching. Findings suggest that the teachers' musical training, influences and preferences, along with considerations of curricular needs, and classroom management, all factored into determining the amount and type of music that was brought into the classroom. An active approach by teachers to infuse children's musical interests into their classroom practices served to validate children's musical experience and competencies beyond school, encouraging a positive attitude towards music in the classroom.
Norms, Forms and Beds: Spatializing Sleep in Victorian Britain
Authors: Crook Tom
Published: December 2008

This article examines the spatialization of sleep in Victorian Britain across a range of institutions, including homes and dormitories. It situates the emergence of modern sleeping space at the intersection of two key narratives regarding the history of the body: Elias's `civilising process' and Foucault's account of the realization of a `disciplinary society'. Beginning in the early modern period, sleeping bodies were gradually accorded their own space set apart from others, and by the end of the 19th century the individual bed was regarded as an essential ingredient of civilized society. However, the evolution of modern sleeping space was only in part informed by ideas of privacy and civility: it was also animated by ideas concerning the functioning of `normal' bodies and minds, the governmental agency of space and the moral integrity of nuclear families. Furthermore, the bed remained a highly problematic, indeterminate space, facilitating deviant as much as civilized behaviour, and giving rise to all manner of pathologies, perversities and phobias. In this respect, the history of sleeping space also sheds light on the reciprocities of rule and resistance, pleasure and power, which at once constitute and imperil the integrity of the modern body.
Awake, Asleep, Adult, Child: An A-humanist Account of Persons
Authors: Lee Nick
Published: December 2008

s Sleeping persons do not seem to be agents, to express identity or to give voice. On one view this means that social research on sleep would do best to focus on the social context of sleep rather than sleep `itself'. If the only analytic vocabulary at our disposal consists of abstractions that assume the existence of self-conscious, self-present individuals, this conclusion is probably correct. This article, however, builds on the work of some contemporary childhood researchers to offer an account of the `person' as an emergent property of distributed interactions between heterogeneous elements. The account is built through a discussion of `transitional objects' and `affects'. It is argued that this version of the `person' could help social research to make sense of both sides of the awake/asleep threshold. The potential contribution of this approach to the emerging bio-politics of childhood and states of un/consciousness is discussed.
Sleep, Signification and the Abstract Body of Allopathic Medicine
Authors: Wolf-Meyer Matthew
Published: December 2008

This article focuses on the recent production of sleep as a matter of concern in American society. In it, I draw primarily on fieldwork with sleep researchers and clinicians to understand the means by which ideas about sleep are produced and disseminated, and discuss the rise of sleep medicine since the late 1970s and the ways sleep disabilities have been constructed and mobilized in contemporary allopathic research and practice. The article provides a description of modern sleep medicine practices, and analyses clinical encounters between researchers, clinicians and patients, particularly the ways patient cases are produced and interpreted. I follow these ethnographic observations with textual analysis of the National Sleep Foundation's campaigns to promote sleep awareness, and offer the theoretical concepts of medical abstraction and insistence as a means to understand the production of sleep as a matter of concern, and how it might be made to adhere in particular patients' lives and the practices of clinicians.
Reading Sleep through Science Fiction: The Parable of Beggars and Choosers
Authors: Steinberg Deborah Lynn
Published: December 2008

s This article examines the iconic `Beggars' trilogy by feminist science fiction writer, Nancy Kress. These novels, produced in the early to mid-1990s, take as their `thought experiment' two points of rupture and contemporary cultural contestation: the advent of human genetic engineering and sleep, or, more specifically, the prospect of a sleepless society. I shall begin by situating my analysis of the Kress trilogy in this nexus of fields. I shall consider the interest of Kress's works for the sociology of sleep as well as for a cultural analysis of science. In this context, and drawing in part on the work of Haran, I will suggest the particular value of science fiction as not only a site for, but also a source of, narrativized social theory. I shall introduce the notion of popular episteme as an analytic concept that aims to link the discursive to the social — that is, to theorize the relationship of textuality to materiality. In this context, I shall refer also to the psychoanalytic concept of `phantasy' as a point of convergence for both structures of feeling and structures of knowledge. I shall then introduce the Kress works, focusing particularly on the first novel Beggars in Spain, locating it in a period in which feminist science fiction saw a marked renaissance, and in which speculative theorizations of genetics formed a distinct subgenre. The analysis will then focus on three core themes emergent in the novels that, I shall argue, have profound contemporaneous resonance. These are the questions of: embodied capital; the political economy of what I will term fast time; and paranoia and the human condition.
Child morbidity and care-seeking in Nairobi slum settlements: the role of environmental and socio-economic factors
Authors: Ndugwa Robert Peter , Zulu Eliya M.
Published: December 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate factors that influence morbidity patterns and health-seeking decisions in an urban slum community. Data were collected between May and August 2003 as part of the ongoing Nairobi urban demographic surveillance system and were analysed to identify factors that influence morbidity patterns and health-seeking decisions. The results show that the factors that influenced morbidity were the child's age, ethnicity and type of toilet facility. Predictors for seeking health care were the child's age, type and severity of illness, survival of father and mother, mother's education, mother's work status and wealth class. The conclusions drawn show that economic resources fall short in preventing child illnesses where children live in poor environmental conditions. However, by enhancing access to health care services, socio-economic status is critical for mitigating disease burden among children in slum settlements.
Effect of a family-based intervention on electronic media use and body composition among boys aged 8—11 years: a pilot study
Authors: Todd M. Kent , Reis-Bergan Monica J. , Sidman Cara L. , Flohr Judith A. , Jameson-Walker Kelly , Spicer-Bartolau Tara , Wildeman Kelly
Published: December 2008

This study measured the effect of a 20-week, family-centered electronic media intervention on electronic media use, body composition (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry; DXA), physical activity and dietary behaviors in boys. Twenty-two boys were assigned and 21 were analyzed in an experimental or control group. Boys in the experimental group set electronic media use goals and used TV Allowance™ device and ENUFF® software to reduce electronic media use. Data were collected at baseline, 10 weeks and 20 weeks. Interactions were found in daily electronic media use and DXA. At 10 weeks, step counts increased by 543 steps per day in the experimental group and decreased by 340 steps per day in the controls. Steps in both groups were higher at 20 weeks. Meals or snacks eaten while using electronic media decreased in the experimental group only. In conclusion, a family-centered electronic media intervention may reduce electronic media use and contribute to desirable changes in body composition.
Sexual Homicide
Authors: Chan Heng-Choon (Oliver) , Heide Kathleen M.
Published: December 2008

Sexual homicide is a heavily studied, but unclearly defined, area of homicide studies. This article examines the empirical studies in sexual homicide from the mid-1980s to 2008. A review of the literature focuses on definitions, general theoretical understanding, and typologies that have evolved over the years. Issues surrounding the study of sexual murderers, such as sadistic fantasy and developmental deficits, are addressed. A comparison of different types of sexual homicides through a synthesis of 32 published empirical studies is made. The article concludes with an analysis of these studies and discusses implications for practice, policy, and research.
Understanding Human Trafficking in the United States
Authors: Logan T.K. , Walker Robert , Hunt Gretchen
Published: December 2008

The topic of modern-day slavery or human trafficking has received increased media and national attention. However, to date there has been limited research on the nature and scope of human trafficking in the United States. This article describes and synthesizes nine reports that assess the U.S. service organizations' legal representative knowledge of, and experience with, human trafficking cases, as well as information from actual cases and media reports. This article has five main goals: (a) to define what human trafficking is, and is not; (b) to describe factors identified as contributing to vulnerability to being trafficked and keeping a person entrapped in the situation; (c) to examine how the crime of human trafficking differs from other kinds of crimes in the United States; (d) to explore how human trafficking victims are identified; and, (e) to provide recommendations to better address human trafficking in the United States.
Electromyographic Response to Manual Passive Stretch of the Hemiplegic Wrist: Accuracy, Reliability, and Correlation With Clinical Spasticity Assessment and Function
Authors: Sorinola Isaac O. , White Claire M. , Rushton David N. , Newham Dianne J.
Published: December 2008

Background. The management of spasticity is important in neurorehabilitation and needs to be assessed accurately. The commonly used clinical tools have been criticized for lack of validity and sensitivity. Objective. To investigate the reliability of electromyographic (EMG) response to manual stretches of the hemiplegic wrist and its correlation with clinical assessments of spasticity and physical function. Methods. EMG activity was measured in 10 stroke patients and control participants (53.7 ± 10 and 32 ± 9.1 years respectively, mean ± SEM) during 3 cycles of 10 seconds passive manual movements of the wrist at 60 to 360° • s-1. Isometric maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) strength, range of movement (ROM) of the wrist flexors and extensors, spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale [MAS]) and hand function (Block and Box Test [BBT]) were also assessed. Results. EMG activity of the stroke patients increased with velocity from 4% to 40% MVC ( P < .001) but there was none in the controls. It was unaffected by repetition and good to moderate reliability occurred at all speeds (ICC, 0.71-0.81). EMG correlated negatively with MVC strength ( r = -.9), active wrist flexion ROM ( r = -.8), and hand function scores ( r = —.7), but not with clinical measures of spasticity except at the lowest velocity ( r = .72). Conclusions. Consistent and accurate stretch velocities and EMG responses can be achieved with manual wrist stretches for the assessment of the neural component of spasticity. These objective tests did not correlate well with the standard clinical assessment of spasticity. They showed significant negative relationships with function, indicating that increased reflex excitability contributes to hand disability after stroke.
Blackless Fantasy
Authors: Higgin Tanner
Published: December 2008

This article focuses on questioning and theorizing the visual and discursive disappearance of blackness from virtual fantasy worlds. Using EverQuest, EverQuest II, and World of Warcraft as illustrative of a timeline of character creation design trends, this article argues that the disappearance of blackness is a gradual erasure facilitated by multicultural design strategies and regressive racial logics. Contemporary fantasy massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs) privilege whiteness and contextualize it as the default selection, rendering any alterations in coloration or racial selection exotic stylistic deviations. Given the Eurocentrism inherent in the fantasy genre and embraced by MMORPGs, in conjunction with commonsense conceptions of Blacks as hyper-masculine and ghettoized in the gamer imaginary, players and designers do not see blackness as appropriate for the discourse of heroic fantasy. As a result, reductive racial stereotypes and representations proliferate while productive and politically disruptive racial differences are ejected or neutralized through fantastical proxies.
The Gray Haired Gaming Generation
Authors: Quandt Thorsten , Grueninger Helmut , Wimmer Jeffrey
Published: December 2008

The market for adult computer gamers is growing considerably. However, there are nearly no empirical works that are primarily focusing this age group. Therefore, there is an urgent need for explorative studies on these gamers. In a qualitative in-depth interview study with 21 gamers aged between 35 and 73 years, this article describes their gaming careers, the integration of gaming into their everyday life, and aspects of social interaction within real and virtual life. Overall, the findings of this study sketch a lively picture of adult players. Many of the interviewees show a very strong interest in the social aspects of gaming. However, gaming can put some strain on their family life, and many older gamers feel that their partners and peers regard their hobby as being inappropriate for their age. Still, most of the interview partners successfully manage to combine occupational and private duties with their gaming activities.
Splenic plasma cells can serve as a source of amyloidogenic light chains
Authors: Solomon Alan , Macy Sallie D. , Wooliver Craig , Weiss Deborah T. , Westermark Per
Published: December 2008

Bone marrow-derived clonal plasma cells, as found in systemic amyloidogenic light chain–associated (AL) amyloidosis, are presumed to be the source of light chains that deposit as fibrils in tissues throughout the body. Paradoxically, people with this disorder, in contrast to multiple myeloma, often have a low percentage of such cells, and it is unknown whether this relatively sparse number can synthesize enough amyloidogenic precursor to form the extensive pathology that occurs. To investigate whether another hematopoietic organ, the spleen, also contains monoclonal light chain–producing plasma cells, we have immunostained such tissue from 26 AL patients with the use of antiplasma cell, antifree κ and λ, and anti-VL subgroup-specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs). In 12 cases, there was statistically significant evidence of a monoclonal population bearing the same κ or λ isotype as that within the bone marrow and identical to the amyloid. Our studies have shown that the spleen may be another source of amyloidogenic light chains.
Relationship between Plasma Fibroblast Growth Factor-23 Concentration and Bone Mineralization in Children with Renal Failure on Peritoneal Dialysis
Authors: Wesseling-Perry Katherine , Pereira Renata C. , Wang Hejing , Elashoff Robert M. , Sahney Shobha , Gales Barbara , Jüppner Harald , Salusky Isidro B.
Published: December 2008

Context: Fibroblast growth factor (FGF)-23 is produced in bone, and circulating levels are markedly elevated in patients with end-stage kidney disease, but the relationship between plasma levels of FGF-23 and bone histology in dialysis patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism is unknown.

Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation between plasma levels of FGF-23 and bone histology in pediatric patients with end-stage kidney disease who display biochemical evidence of secondary hyperparathyroidism.

Design: We performed a cross-sectional analysis of the relationship between plasma FGF-23 levels and bone histomorphometry.

Setting: The study was conducted in a referral center.

Study Participants: Participants consisted of forty-nine pediatric patients who were treated with maintenance peritoneal dialysis and who had serum PTH levels (1st generation Nichols assay) greater than 400 pg/ml.

Intervention: There were no interventions.

Main Outcome Measure: Plasma FGF-23 levels and bone histomorphometry were measured.

Results: No correlation existed between values of PTH and FGF-23. Bone formation rates correlated with PTH (r = 0.44; P < 0.01), but not with FGF-23. Higher FGF-23 concentrations were associated with decreased osteoid thickness (r = −0.49; P < 0.01) and shorter osteoid maturation time (r = −0.48; P < 0.01).

Conclusions: High levels of FGF-23 are associated with improved indices of skeletal mineralization in dialyzed pediatric patients with high turnover renal osteodystrophy. Together with other biomarkers, FGF-23 measurements may indicate skeletal mineralization status in this patient population.
Pendrin Is a Novel Autoantigen Recognized by Patients with Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases
Authors: Yoshida Akio , Hisatome Ichiro , Taniguchi Shinichi , Shirayoshi Yasuaki , Yamamoto Yasutaka , Miake Junichiro , Ohkura Tsuyoshi , Akama Takeshi , Igawa Osamu , Shigemasa Chiaki , Kamijo Keiichi , Ikuyama Shoichiro , Caturegli Patrizio , Suzuki Koichi
Published: December 2008

Context: Pendrin is an apical protein of thyroid follicular cells, responsible for the efflux of iodide into the follicular lumen via an iodide-chloride transport mechanism. It is unknown whether pendrin is recognized by autoantibodies.

Objective: Our objective was to examine the prevalence of pendrin antibodies in autoimmune thyroid diseases and compare with that of thyroglobulin, thyroperoxidase, TSH receptor, and sodium iodide symporter antibodies.

Design: In a prevalent case-control study, we analyzed the sera of 140 autoimmune thyroid disease cases (100 with Graves’ disease and 40 with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis) and 80 controls (50 healthy subjects, 10 patients with papillary thyroid cancer, 10 with systemic lupus erythematosus, and 10 with rheumatoid arthritis). Pendrin antibodies were measured by immunoblotting using extract of COS-7 cells transfected with pendrin and a rabbit polyclonal pendrin antibody.

Results: Pendrin antibodies were found in 81% of the cases and 9% of controls (odds ratio = 44; P < 0.0001). Among cases, pendrin antibodies were more frequent and of higher titers in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis than in Graves’ disease. Pendrin antibodies correlated significantly with thyroglobulin, thyroperoxidase, and sodium iodide symporter antibodies but not with TSH receptor antibodies. Pendrin antibodies were equally effective as thyroglobulin and thyroperoxidase antibodies in diagnosis of autoimmune thyroid diseases, especially Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

Conclusions: The study identifies pendrin as a novel autoantigen recognized by patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases and proposes the use of pendrin antibodies as an accurate diagnostic tool.
The Antiresorptive Effects of a Single Dose of Zoledronate Persist for Two Years: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial in Osteopenic Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Grey Andrew , Bolland Mark J. , Wattie Diana , Horne Anne , Gamble Greg , Reid Ian R.
Published: December 2008

Context: Annual iv administration of 5 mg zoledronate decreases fracture risk. The optimal dosing interval of 5 mg zoledronate is not known.

Objective: Our objective was to determine the duration of antiresorptive action of a single 5-mg dose of iv zoledronate.

Design, Setting, and Participants: We conducted a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial over 2 yr at an academic research center, in a volunteer sample of 50 postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

Intervention: Intervention included 5 mg zoledronate.

Main Outcome Measures: Biochemical markers of bone turnover and bone mineral density of the lumbar spine, proximal femur, and total body.

Results: Compared with placebo, zoledronate treatment decreased mean levels of each of four markers of bone turnover by at least 38% (range 38–45%) for the duration of the study (P < 0.0001 for each marker). After 2 yr, bone mineral density was higher in the zoledronate group than the placebo group by an average of 5.7% (95% confidence interval = 4.0–7.4) at the lumbar spine, 3.9% (2.2–5.7) at the proximal femur, and 1.7% (0.8–2.5) at the total body (P < 0.0001 for each skeletal site). Between-groups differences in markers of bone turnover and bone mineral density were similar at 12 and 24 months. Mild secondary hyperparathyroidism was present throughout the study in the zoledronate group.

Conclusion: The antiresorptive effects of a single 5-mg dose of zoledronate are sustained for at least 2 yr. The magnitudes of the effects on markers of bone turnover and bone mineral density are comparable at 12 and 24 months. Administration of zoledronate at intervals of up to 2 yr may be associated with antifracture efficacy; clinical trials to investigate this possibility are justified.
The nuclear lamina promotes telomere aggregation and centromere peripheral localization during senescence of human mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Raz Vered , Vermolen Bart J. , Garini Yuval , Onderwater Jos J. M. , Mommaas-Kienhuis Mieke A. , Koster Abraham J. , Young Ian T. , Tanke Hans , Dirks Roeland W.
Published: December 2008

Ex vivo, human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs) undergo spontaneous cellular senescence after a limited number of cell divisions. Intranuclear structures of the nuclear lamina were formed in senescent hMSCs, which are identified by the presence of Hayflick-senescence-associated factors. Notably, spatial changes in lamina shape were observed before the Hayflick senescence-associated factors, suggesting that the lamina morphology can be used as an early marker to identify senescent cells. Here, we applied quantitative image-processing tools to study the changes in nuclear architecture during cell senescence. We found that centromeres and telomeres colocalised with lamina intranuclear structures, which resulted in a preferred peripheral distribution in senescent cells. In addition, telomere aggregates were progressively formed during cell senescence. Once formed, telomere aggregates showed colocalization with γ-H2AX but not with TERT, suggesting that telomere aggregates are sites of DNA damage. We also show that telomere aggregation is associated with lamina intranuclear structures, and increased telomere binding to lamina proteins is found in cells expressing lamina mutants that lead to increases in lamina intranuclear structures. Moreover, three-dimensional image processing revealed spatial overlap between telomere aggregates and lamina intranuclear structures. Altogether, our data suggest a mechanical link between changes in lamina spatial organization and the formation of telomere aggregates during senescence of hMSCs, which can possibly contribute to changes in nuclear activity during cell senescence.
Systematic Reviews of Pharmacy Practice Research: Methodologic Issues in Searching, Evaluating, Interpreting, and Disseminating Results
Authors: Charrois Theresa L , Durec Tamara , Tsuyuki Ross T
Published: December 2008

Although there has been a large number of trials on pharmacist care, often demonstrating clinically significant benefits, the trials generally have not changed practice or healthcare policy. What is needed are focused evidence syntheses, such as a systematic review. A systematic review is defined as a summary that addresses a focused clinical question, using methods to reduce the likelihood of bias. These reviews, which are the highest level of evidence, can help to impact policy by bringing together results of various trials. However, systematic reviews of practice research pose some unique methodologic challenges, including issues with searching, interpreting, and evaluating the available research. Well-conducted systematic reviews of pharmacist interventions could go a long way toward changing pharmacy practice and healthcare policy to recognize the important impact that pharmacists could have in the healthcare system.
Who escapes or remains a victim of bullying in primary school?
Authors: Wolke Dieter , Woods Sarah , Samara Muthanna
Published: December 2008

The stability of both direct and relational victimization and factors that contribute to remaining, escaping or becoming a victim of bullying were investigated. 663 children at baseline aged 6–9 (years 2–4) were interviewed about their bullying experiences and parents completed a behaviour and health measure. Children's perception of the degree of social hierarchical structuring and social prominence in their class was determined by peer nominations. 432 children participated in the follow‐up either 2 or 4 years after baseline aged 10–11 (year 6) and completed a bullying questionnaire. Relational victims and children from classes with a high hierarchical structure were more likely to have dropped out of the study compared to neutral children, and children from classes with a low hierarchical structure. Relative risk analyses indicated a twofold increased risk of remaining a direct victim at follow‐up, compared to a child not involved at baseline becoming a victim over the follow‐up period. In contrast, relational victimization increased but was not found to be stable. Logistic regression analyses revealed that being a girl, and receiving few positive peer nominations predicted remaining a direct victim. Becoming a relational victim at follow‐up was predicted by a strong class hierarchy. The implications for future study of early recognition of likely long term victims and early preventative bullying initiatives are discussed.
What can I gain as a mentor? The effect of mentoring on the job performance and social status of mentors in China
Authors: Liu Dong , Liu Jun , Kwan Ho Kwong , Mao Yina
Published: December 2008

In this study, we examine how mentoring benefits mentors as well as how team cohesiveness affects mentoring relationships and resulting benefits. We followed 512 formal mentors in a Chinese manufacturing firm for six months and collected data in three phases and from three sources. The findings reveal that the amount of mentoring provided is positively related to mentors' in‐role job performance and social status. These relationships were fully mediated by mentors' personal learning and social interaction quality, respectively. Team cohesiveness, however, did not moderate these relationships. Our empirical findings have implications for understanding how mentors' careers can benefit from being a mentor.
Assessing current alcohol use with the FORM 90 in a student sample
Authors: Meyer Thomas D. , Hautzinger Martin
Published: December 2008

Objectives Alcohol use disorders are one of the most common problems among males. A calendar‐based instrument for assessing alcohol use, the FORM 90, has been developed and its validity has been tested in clinical samples as an alternative to prospective assessment. Our goal was to examine its validity in a (non‐clinical) student sample with and without alcohol‐related disorders.

Method Using the CIDI we interviewed 120 male students and identified individuals with alcohol abuse, alcohol dependency or no substance‐related disorder. We compared these groups on a global and a calendar‐based measure – the FORM 90 – to see whether both lead to comparable results. CIDI and FORM 90 were completed by independent interviewers.

Results Overall a global and calendar‐based assessment showed comparable results, but differed in the estimated number of days of alcohol consumption. More importantly, looking at the average amount of alcohol consumed at each drinking occasion, the FORM 90 revealed a highly stable alcohol consumption pattern for individuals with alcohol dependence, but a significantly less stable pattern for abusers and individuals without a lifetime‐history of alcohol‐related problems.

Conclusion Even in a non‐clinical sample, using the FORM 90 can identify differences in drinking patterns in individuals with abuse and dependency who have never been treated for these conditions. This study supports the validity of the FORM 90 and suggests that this instrument might allow the examination of specific associations between drinking pattern and its correlates in such populations.
Film Reviews
Authors: Wani Aarti , Wilson Brian
Published: December 2008

Aamir at the multiplex Aamir
(2008) India Written and Directed by Raj Kumar Gupta Music Amit Trivedi Cinematography by Alphanso Roy Film Editing by Aarti Bajaj Production Company UTV Spotboy With Rajeev Khandelwal (Aamir
Ali), Gajraj Rao (Chief) and Jhilmil Hazrika (Prostitute)

Diary of the Dead
(2007) USA Director George A. Romero Screenplay George A. Romero Producer Peter Grunwald, Art Spiegel, Sam Englebardt, Ara Katz, Dan Fireman Director of Photography Adam
Swica Art Director Jon P. Goulding Costumes Alex Kavanagh Editor Michael Doherty Original Music Norman Orenstein With Michelle Morgan (Debra), Josh Close (Jason Creed), Shawn Roberts (Tony Ravello), Amy Lalonde (Tracy Truman), Joe Dinicol (Eliot Stone), Scott
Wentworth (Andrew Maxwell), Phillip Riccio (Ridley Wilmott) Runtime 96 minutes
Introduction: departmentalization's continuing conundrum: locating the DOM-ROM between home and away
Authors: Murdoch Adlai
Published: December 2008

This collection of essays probes the resonances of the sixtieth anniversary of some of France's overseas colonies gaining accession to full integration into the metropole as dpartements. This event stands out in that it marks the only occasion in European colonial history where
colonies on the verge of transformation were integrated into the political structure of the former colonial power. The compound issues undergirding the ongoing departmental relationship suggest a hierarchical structure still predicated on neocolonial patterns of domination and submission,
centre and periphery. From ngritude through antillanit and crolit, the deployment of various discourses of resistance and identity has not foreclosed the large-scale displacement of French Caribbean subjects to France that followed departmentalization in 1946, resulting
in new ethnic and community concentrations and a certain creolization of the metropole itself. It is the tensions arising from these intersections of integration, migration and difference that lead us to interrogate the ways in which this process of exchange produces an increasingly pluralized
and, perhaps, polarized metropole and its problematization of French principles of universalism.
Relire La lzarde: Victoire et mlancolie de la dpartementalisation
Authors: Moudileno Lydie
Published: December 2008

This article examines the discourse surrounding departmentalization in Antillian literature through an analysis of Edouard Glissant's 1958 La lzarde (The Ripening). It argues that the final melancholy of the hero (and mouthpiece of the author), though ignored by Glissant's numerous
critics, serves to nuance the positive representation of the victorious local elections in Martinique. Far from a minor detail, the postcolonial hero's melancholy, which stands in contrast to the collective elation following the election of the local representative (inspired by the real-life
candidacy of Aim Csaire), proves upon closer examination to be an indispensable element of Glissant's commentary on the electoral period of 19456 in Martinique. La lzarde, the first novel by Glissant, who would become the greatest thinker of antillanit in the francophone context,
when read in this light, thus becomes a unique reflection on the limits and paradoxes of the transition in 1946 from a colonial status to that of a department assimilated to France.
Femmes, fminitude, fminisme: An afternoon with Suzanne Dracius
Authors: Jahn Jennifer
Published: December 2008

Suzanne Dracius is one of Martinique's most prominent authors. In this interview she discusses her first novel L'autre qui danse and the complex personalities of its characters, the inspiration for her writing gained from being in Martinique and the importance of women's movements.
She explains women's difficult positions in modern society and situates the root for many of the problems experienced today in the past, although she does not shy away from placing blame on today's men and women as well. Her mixed heritage, as well as the various cultures that influenced her
upbringing, have clearly determined her literary style, and her feminist stance has led her to coin the neologism fminitude. Despite her sometimes tragic depiction of societal problems in Martinique and the metropole, Dracius remains optimistic and passionate about the role of women
and the progression of women's rights.
Delivering student feedback in higher education: the role of podcasting
Authors: Cooper Steve
Published: December 2008

Student numbers across the higher education sector have risen over recent years and the challenge of creating and delivering an effective learning experience grows evermore complex for the educator. It is necessary to provide prompt feedback to students on their current progress and
personal areas for development, which is paramount for improving the quality of their future assessed work and also impacts significantly on individual motivation. Podcasting offers a timely and expedient delivery method for a wide range of teaching resources especially when combined with
iconic and ubiquitous mp3 devices such as Apple's iPod. The culture of learning and its integration into students' daily lives is changing, and higher education institutions in the United States and Europe have been quick to embrace the potential of this technology, although much of the current
research focus is on the delivery and reinforcement of curriculum material. This paper reports on a qualitative study within a music department, using semi-structured interviews and questionnaires to evaluate whether student feedback can also be delivered using audio-based podcasts, and whether
this has a significant impact on how students respond to and use the information received. The findings conclude that delivering audio feedback produces a high-quality, personalized and appropriately detailed tutor response that students feel has significantly greater value for learning than
more traditional written comments.
The medium is the message: cyberspace, community, and music learning in the Irish traditional music virtual community
Authors: Waldron Janice L , Veblen Kari K
Published: December 2008

This article examines the music teaching and learning in the Irish traditional virtual music community or IrTrad in cyberspace, noting the multiple, fluid and overlapping ways in which the IrTrad community defines itself. For example, YouTube videos give rise to heated discussions in
other platforms on all aspects of the videos: quality, performance practices, issues of authenticity, usefulness in learning, repertoire and other areas related to learning the music and the instrument. We frame this discussion with inspiration from Marshall McLuhan's notions about hot and
cold media, applying them to survey Internet learning.
Immigrants in the Portuguese media
Authors: Ferin Isabel
Published: December 2008

In this article, an assessment is made of media images and representations of immigration and ethnic minorities in Portugal, focusing on the late-1990s and the early years of the 21st century. Globalisation factors and the European context are considered, as well as the specifics of
Portugal, with the major representation/construction and presentation cycles being introduced. The role of the press is underlined, although the main focus is on Portuguese television's role in the creation of stereotypes of immigrant communities. The coverage of these themes is being analysed
by Portuguese and European regulators through the implementation of scientific studies and training programmes for journalists.
A single point NMR method for an instantaneous determination of the moisture content of wood
Authors: Merela Maks , Oven Primož , Serša Igor , Mikac Urša
Published: December 2008

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) enables an instantaneous determination of the proton density in liquids and is thus convenient for determining the moisture content (MC) of wood. We demonstrated that the MC of a wood sample can be determined instantaneously on the basis of its mass (m) and the amplitude of its NMR free-induction-decay (FID) signal. The measurement is based on the assumption that the only liquid in the wood is water and that the relationship between the amplitude of the FID signal (S) and the mass of the water (m

w
) in the sample is linear, i.e., S=k m

w
+k′ (m-m

w
), and can be precisely calibrated for a given NMR probe and NMR spectrometer setup (in our case k=105 AU g-1 and k/k′ =34). With the FID signal converted into the mass of water, the MC is calculated as: MC=(S-m k′)/(m k-S). After the initial calibration of the FID signal with respect to the content of water, the correctness of the method was verified on samples of different wood species with various MCs. The results confirmed that the proposed method is comparable in terms of accuracy and reliability to the gravimetric method, regardless of the species of wood. As the method is instantaneous, it might become the method of choice in applications where a short measurement time combined with a high accuracy is demanded.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: General Principles
Authors: Muñoz Alejandra M. , King Silvia C.
Published: December 2008

This publication presents a discussion of issues involved in the planning, design, and execution of international consumer product tests across cultures and countries (cross-cultural consumer research tests), and the data analysis and interpretation of the results. This document addresses the unique situations involved in the design and execution of tests conducted with different cultures or in foreign countries. Special consideration is given to language issues, questionnaire design, and test execution based on key cultural differences among countries.

This publication consists of two sections: the main document (General Principles) and individual documents covering specific countries or cultures. The former addresses the general test conditions and issues involved in international consumer product testing across cultures and countries. While some specifics and examples are provided throughout the General Principles document, explicit examples and country information are provided in the country specific documents. For discussion purposes the country specific documents will be referred to as appendices. These appendices focus on country-specific testing information, caveats, and scenarios.

This document does not recommend a specific test method or procedure. Rather, it is a discussion of relevant topics applicable to consumer research conducted with different cultures and in different countries.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: Argentina
Authors: Hough Guillermo , Mucci Andrea , Findling Liliana Graciela
Published: December 2008

The Argentine Republic is located at the southernmost part of the American Continent. Its area is 3.7 million sq. km, including 964 000 sq. km of the Antarctic Continental area and the South Atlantic Islands. Continental Argentina is 3700 km long, extending between 22 and 55° latitude. This large extension determines great variations in climate, going from subtropical in the North to the cold climate in the South. The prevailing climate is mild. Bear in mind that seasons are reverse to those in the Northern Hemisphere.

The east central part of the country, known as the Pampean plain, extends over 600000 sq. km and is the main farming, livestock, and industrial region of the country. It concentrates 70 % of the population, 80 % of agricultural production, and 85 % of industrial activity.

According to the last census (2001), the Argentine territory is inhabited by 36.2 million people, and it is divided into 23 provinces and its capital city is Buenos Aires. Spanish is the official language. Its form of government is democratic, with a President and Congress freely elected by the people.

Culturally speaking, the major influence on people’s habits and behavior is European. This is explained by Western European immigration in the 18th century and the beginning of the 19th century. This immigration was predominantly Spanish and Italian. Afro-American population originating from the slave trade of the 18th century is practically nonexistent. Indigenous population is small. In the Northeast of the country there is some cultural influence from Brazil and Paraguay, and in the Northwest from Bolivia. Generally speaking, no great differences are to be expected between the Argentine and U.S. population as regards behavior and attitude towards a consumer test. There are some unique issues explained below.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: Brazil
Authors: de Faria Eliete Vaz , Kohl Therese M.
Published: December 2008

As a consequence of its history and large area, Brazil is a country of contrasts and cultural differences among people from different geographical regions.

Habits, attitudes, and consumer preferences are variable from region to region. It is not unusual for companies, especially large ones, to develop a product differently for two or more markets to meet the specific consumer requirements of different geographical regions. For example, consumers in the Northeast prefer margarines with strong yellow color while consumers in the Southeast prefer clear yellow-colored margarines. The Northeastern consumers prefer more spices in their food, more brightly colored products, more intense perfumes, etc. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that consumer tests be carried out in the region where the product will be sold. This should be applied to every kind of consumer product including food, beverages, personal care, home care, etc.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: Canada
Authors: Cameron Arlene , Goldman Anne , Findlay Chris J.
Published: December 2008

Canada is located in the northern half of North America, and covers a land mass of 9 97 610 km2. The southern Canadian border of 8892 km is shared with the United States. Much of the Canadian population is concentrated along this border. Canada is divided into ten provinces and three territories. There are six time zones across Canada. Newfoundland is 3 hours and 30 minutes behind Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). Other time zones are the Atlantic (4 hours behind GMT), Eastern (5 hours behind GMT),Central (6 hours behind GMT),Rocky Mountain (7 hours behindGMT) and the Pacific, 8 hours behind GMT.

Canada is divided into several regions, each with a unique climate and landscape. The Pacific Coast has a moderate climate, with relatively dry summers and mild, wet winters. Other geographical areas of interest include the Rocky and Coastal mountain ranges, the plains of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba, the rocky Canadian Shield region, and the cold Arctic region, north of the tree line. Only 12% of Canada’s land is suitable for agriculture. In general, summer temperatures in the milder regions can reach 35°C and higher, while winter temperatures of −25°C are not uncommon.

Canada is essentially stable politically and is undergoing no internal civil conflicts. Canadians as a whole are considered more conservative than their American counterparts. The Canadian infrastructure is highly developed for communication and transportation.

Canadian consumers are similar to other North American cultures (i.e., United States), but some cultural differences may affect research results. Canada recognizes two official languages, English and French. Of Canada’s 30 million people, 59 % declare English to be their mother tongue, 23 % state French as their first language and 18 % have more than one first language or their mother tongue is neither English nor French. More than two-fifths of Canadians have one origin other than British, French, or Aboriginal. Canadians take pride in their multiculturalism; Canada became the first country in the world to adopt a multiculturalism policy in 1971.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: France
Authors: Adam Christel , Brannan Grace , Ward Cindy
Published: December 2008

France is the largest country in Western Europe, with a vast maritime zone (exclusive economic zone extending over 11 million sq. km). The total area is 547 030 sq. km.

Plains cover two-thirds of the total area. The principal mountain ranges are the Alps (of which the highest peak, Mont Blanc, rising to 4807 metres, is the highest mountain in Western Europe), Pyrenees, Jura, Ardennes, Massif Central, and Vosges. Bordered by four seas (North Sea, Channel, Atlantic Ocean, and Mediterranean), France has 5500 km of coastline.

There are three types of climates in metropolitan France: Oceanic in the west, Mediterranean in the south, and Continental in central and eastern France. Generally the winters are cool and the summers mild, but there are mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean area.

France has overseas subdivisions (departments): Mayotte, Saint Pierre et Miquelon, Guyane, Runion, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Nouvelle Caldonie, and Tahiti.

France is a multi-cultural society. From the beginning of the 20th century, immigration has been a phenomenon that distinguishes French society from other European countries, having welcomed more than 4 million foreigners (2004) to citizenship since 1900. At the turn of the 20th century, immigrants were predominantly of Portuguese, Polish, Italian, and Spanish descent. After the mid-20th century, there have been more African (Algeria War) and Asian immigrants (1980s).

France also has an aging population. There is an increasing part of the population over 60 years old, due to the baby-boomers born in the decades immediately following World War II. They currently have significant consumer buying power.
International Consumer Product Testing Across Cultures and Countries: Japan
Authors: Nakao Aki , Taniguchi Asako
Published: December 2008

Japan is located in East Asia and consists of five island districts (Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa), surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, the Sea of Japan, and the Sea of Ohotsuku. The total area is 377 835 sq. km (The World Factbook 2005). Honshu is the largest island with the capital, Tokyo. The climate varies from humid tropical in the south (Okinawa) to humid continental and cool summer in the north (Hokkaido). The climate of Honshu (the main island) is humid continental and warm summers. The official language is Japanese.