bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of optimized energy system
Authors: Shankar Ganesh N , Srinivas T , Maheswari G Uma , Mahendiran S , Manivannan D
Published: March 2019

The Kalina cycle is a binary mixture power generation system optimised for a range of waste heat recovery applications, which has received considerable attention as an energy efficient power generation cycle well suited to Indian climatic conditions. The Kalina cycle makes use of a binary mixture system which utilises ammonia–water mixture as a working fluid. First law and second law analysis were examined on two different Kalina cycle configurations (low temperature and medium temperature Kalina systems). The low temperature series heaters Kalina cycle system is driven with renewable energy source, while medium temperature is generally used for hot stream of energy from boiling water nuclear reactor or pressurised water nuclear reactor. The specific work output, energy, exergy and relative efficiencies have been optimized with the parameters considered. Separator temperature and turbine concentration (separator inlet concentration, x3 for Medium temperature Kalina cycle system (MTKCS) and separator vapour concentration, x11 for Low temperature Kalina cycle system (LTKCS)) are treated as common parameters between the two Kalina cycle systems. The optimum separator temperature for low temperature Kalina cycle systems with series heat exchangers and medium temperature Kalina cycle systems is in the ranges 110–150°C and 70–100°C, respectively, and the turbine concentration between 0.85–0.97 and 0.77–0.86. The highest exergy efficiency observed in the study (82%) occurred for the MTKCS, which exhibits lower exergy losses than the LTKCS, due to its more efficient energy recovery. The results identify that Kalina cycle systems can well adapt for medium temperature applications.
Evaluation of postoperative complication rates in cats undergoing perineal urethrostomy performed in dorsal recumbency
Authors: Watson Mallory T , Roca Rodrigo Y , Breiteneicher Adam H , Kalis Russell H
Published: March 2019

Case series summary

Medical records were reviewed for cats that underwent a perineal urethrostomy performed in dorsal recumbency for the treatment of urethral obstruction. Information, including signalment, reason for presentation, number of previous obstructions, surgery time, and perioperative and postoperative complications, were collected through a review of medical records and owner follow-up. The objective was to evaluate short- and long-term complications in cats that underwent perineal urethrostomy performed in dorsal recumbency for treatment of urethral obstruction.

Relevance and novel information

No major or life-threatening complications, such as urethral stricture, re-obstruction, euthanasia due to lower urinary signs or chronic urinary tract infection, were reported. Short-term complications were limited to dysuria in 2/12 (16.7%) cats. Long-term follow-up was available for nine cats. The most common long-term complication seen in this population of cats was a single recurrence of urinary tract infection in 3/9 (33.3%) cats that resolved after a short course of empirical antibiotic therapy. Performing perineal urethrostomy in dorsal recumbency is safe and may have advantages to ventral recumbency due to improved visualization, allowing for more efficient dissection and improved accuracy in tissue apposition during closure. We believe this has been a major contributor to our reported reduced major postoperative complication rate.
Foot drop following primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: O’Brien Seamus , Gallagher Nicola , Spence David , Bennett Damien , Dennison Janice , Beverland David E
Published: March 2019

Introduction:

Foot drop is a potentially debilitating complication following injury to the sciatic nerve during primary total hip arthroplasty (THA). The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, risk factors and outcome of this complication within one large surgical practice.

Methods:

We analysed the records of 10,624 primary THAs carried out between January 1993 and November 2017 using a posterior approach. All were under the care of the senior author.

Results:

Overall, there were 47 cases (0.44%) of foot drop, but over time the incidence dropped from 0.6% to 0.3% ( p = 0.033). Preoperative protrusio acetabulae ( p < 0.001), female sex ( p < 0.001) and junior grade of surgeon ( p < 0.009) were all significant risk factors. In this series, dysplasia was not a risk factor. 1 year postoperatively, 25 (53.2%) had complete recovery, 12 (25.5%) had ongoing sensory deficit but normal power, and 10 (21.3%) had a residual sensory-motor deficit.

Conclusion:

Take home message:- In this series, protrusio acetabulae, female sex and junior grade of surgeon were significant risk factors for foot drop following primary THA.
Three-year results of a polycarbonate urethane acetabular bearing in total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Lazic Stefan , Kellett Catherine , Afzal Irrum , Mohan Rajan , Killampalli Vijay , Field Richard E
Published: March 2019

Background:

Polycarbonate urethane (PCU) is a bearing surface with a lower modulus of elasticity than polyethylene or ceramic and is thought to more closely replicate the tribology of native hyaline cartilage. The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical outcomes with the use of PCU in elective total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Methods:

We carried out a prospective observational study in which 157 patients underwent elective THA with a metal-on-PCU hip system. Patients had radiographic follow-up at 6 months and 3 years after surgery. Oxford Hip Scores and EuroQol scores were obtained annually and Harris Hip Scores were obtained at 6 months and 3 years after surgery.

Results:

180 hips were implanted, of which, 149 hips reached 3-year review with no revisions. There was an increase in Harris Hip Scores, Oxford Hip Scores and EuroQol scores ( p < 0.001). 12 patients (12 hips) reported painless hip squeaking. There were no dislocations and no other adverse events were reported.

Conclusion:

Our results showed satisfactory survivorship and improvements in patient reported outcomes with metal on PCU THA. Long-term data are still being collected to confirm these findings. We recommend further tribological research into the squeaking phenomenon we observed.
Threshold concept learning: Emotions and liminal space transitions
Authors: Irving Gemma , Wright April , Hibbert Paul
Published: March 2019

This article explores how learners transition through the liminal space when they engage with and master threshold concepts. We investigate this question through a qualitative study of undergraduate students as they grapple with the threshold concept of evidence-based management (EBMgT) as a disciplinary way of thinking and practising. Our findings elaborate threshold concept learning as a cumulative process of the learner’s engagement with the troublesome, integrative-and-bounded, irreversible, and transformative elements of a threshold concept. Through this elaboration, we show how transitions through liminal spaces in threshold concept learning play out as an interrelated, cognitive, and affective process. We identify key transition points and mechanisms related to doubt, high-activation negative emotions, regret, and emotional resolution that trigger entry into, progression through or getting stuck within, and exit from a liminal space when a learner engages with and masters a threshold concept. Our research, therefore, contributes processual insight into liminality in threshold concept learning by opening up the transitions and emotions that play out for the learners in the liminal space. We also contribute to wider debates about student engagement with disciplinary ways of thinking and practising in management.
A short remark on Ren–Hu’s modification of He’s frequency–amplitude formulation and the temperature oscillation in a polar bear hair
Authors: Wang Qingli , Shi Xiangyang , Li Zhengbiao
Published: March 2019

Recently Zhong-Fu Ren and Gui-Fang Hu suggested a modification of He’s frequency–amplitude formulation for nonlinear oscillators. This paper shows that this modification results in a lower accuracy than that by the original one. The temperature oscillation in a polar bear hair is used as an example to illustrate the effectiveness of He’s frequency–amplitude formulation.
The homotopy perturbation method for a nonlinear oscillator with a damping
Authors: Yao Shaowen , Cheng Zhibo
Published: March 2019

The homotopy perturbation method is extended to solve nonlinear oscillators with damping terms, and an explicit relationship between the frequency and amplitude is obtained, the main factor affecting the periodic property is revealed.
Investigation of vibration induced by moving cranes in high-tech factories
Authors: Ju SH , Kuo HH , Yu SW , Ni SH
Published: March 2019

A finite element model was developed to simulate the crane induced vibration on the floor of high-tech factories, in which the mesh include beam, plate, spring-damper, and moving wheel elements. The finite element results were first compared with the experimental measurements in good agreement. The parametric studies were then performed to study the vibration behavior of high-tech factories due to the effects of rail irregularities, slab depth, and crane speed. The rail irregularities induce the vibration of the crane and slab at their natural frequencies, and both rail irregularities and the crane acceleration induce the crane rotation in its natural frequency, so that smoothing the wheel and rail should be the first priority to decrease slab vibration. The crane speed is another important issue to influence slab vibration, which decreases with the reduction of the crane speed clearly from the parametric study. Thus, decreasing the crane speed to reduce slab vibration is an alternative, and experiments are caused to find the optimal crane speed and acceleration. The crane induced vibration is the relatively largest and smallest at the column location and beam center, respectively. Therefore, increasing the slab and beam depth to decrease the slab vibration induced by the moving crane is an additional option.
Discriminant validity assessment in marketing research
Authors: Matthes Joseph M , Ball A Dwayne
Published: March 2019

Establishing discriminant validity has been a keystone of measurement validity in empirical marketing research for many decades. Without statistically showing that constructs have discriminant validity, contributions to marketing literature are likely to foster the proliferation of constructs that are operationally the same as other constructs already present in the literature, thus leading to confusion in the development of theory. This article addresses this concern by evaluating well-established methods for testing discriminant validity through the simulation of artificial datasets (containing varying levels of correlation between constructs, sample size, measurement error, and distribution skewness). The artificial data are applied to six commonly used approaches for testing the existence of discriminant validity. Results strongly suggest that several methods are much more likely than others to yield accurate assessments of whether discriminant validity exists, especially under specific conditions. Recommendations for practice in the assessment of discriminant validity are suggested.
ABC model: A tiered, integrated pathway approach to peri- and post-diagnostic support for families living with dementia (Innovative Practice)
Authors: Aldridge Zena , Burns Alistair , Harrison Dening Karen
Published: March 2019

Services for people with dementia and their families in England are commissioned with a lack of integration and an inconsistent approach creating gaps in service provision. Therefore, families affected by dementia are not receiving the appropriate care in a timely manner and often access support at crisis point. This reactive and crisis driven approach to care is costly financially and can have a negative impact and quality of life of those affected. The ABC model offers an adaptable framework that can inform service provision and improve opportunities to create seamless peri- and post-diagnosis dementia services for families affected by dementia.
Interaction analysis between waves and perforated caisson using the revised smoothed particle hydrodynamics method and finite element method
Authors: Tang Xiaocheng , Chen Hongzhou , Jiang Feng , Zhang Ri , Song Dongrui
Published: March 2019

A two-dimensional smoothed particle hydrodynamics analysis model based on Riemann solution is put forward to discuss its application for the wave-perforated caisson interaction problem. The wave particles are simulated by the smoothed particle hydrodynamics method and the perforated caisson employs the finite element method. The numerical method has been verified by comparing the process of elastic plate with liquid tank with test, and a good agreement is reached. Then, the proposed method is employed to study the distribution of dynamic stress in the perforated plate position of dissipation chamber at the still water level, as well as the distribution of dynamic stress along the perforated plate. Furthermore, the relationship between the dynamic stress and the corresponding coefficient is also discussed, such as the relative width B/L of dissipation chamber of no-roof perforated caisson and the relative height s/L of top cover of perforated caisson. This article concludes by providing reference to the design and construction of perforated caisson breakwaters.
Breath by Breath: Reconsidering the Project of Critical Pedagogy Through the Lens of Zen Buddhist Thought and Practice
Authors: Holohan Kevin
Published: March 2019

This article examines how Zen Buddhism conceives of human suffering, the causes of suffering, and the method by which human suffering can be alleviated and compares these with similar notions within critical social theory and its educational manifestation in the critical pedagogy movement. While both Zen Buddhist and critical theories/discourses aim to uncover the roots of human suffering and offer particular methods to help alleviate it, these systems of thought differ in fundamental ways. Consideration of significant concepts within Buddhist thought and practice can address some of the criticisms that have been leveled against the foundations and project of critical pedagogy. Ultimately, the article illustrates how a Zen Buddhist–oriented critical pedagogy based upon notions of interdependence, impermanence, and “no-self” can be a more humane, inclusive, relevant, and applicable approach to working toward a more just and equitable social order.
Molding process and properties of continuous carbon fiber three-dimensional printing
Authors: Zhang Jun , Zhou Zude , Zhang Fan , Tan Yuegang , Yi Renhui
Published: March 2019

Currently, carbon fiber composite has been applied in the field of three-dimensional printing to produce the high-performance parts with complex geometric features. This technique comprise both the advantages of three-dimensional printing and the material, which are light weight, high strength, integrated molding, and without mold, and the limitation of model complexity. In order to improve the performance of three-dimensional printing process using carbon fiber composite, in this article, a novel molding process of three-dimensional printing for continuous carbon fiber composites is developed, including the construction of printing material, the design of printer nozzle, and the modification of printing process. A suitable structure of nozzle on the printer is adjusted for the continuous carbon fiber composites. For the sake of ensuring the continuity of composited material during the processing, a cutting algorithm for jumping point is proposed to improve the printing path during process. On this basis, the experiment of continuous carbon fiber composite is performed and the mechanical properties of the printed test samples are analyzed. The results show that the tensile strength and bending strength of the sample printed by polylactic acid–continuous carbon fiber composites increased by 204.7% and 116.3%, respectively compared with pure polylactic acid materials, and those of the sample printed by nylon–continuous carbon fiber composites increased by 301.1% and 17.4% compared with pure nylon materials, and those of test sample by nylon–continuous carbon fiber composites under the heated and pressurized treatment increased by 383.6% and 233.2% compared with pure nylon material.
Maximum temperature of the disc during repeated braking applications
Authors: Grzes Piotr
Published: March 2019

A computational finite element model of a brake disc for determining transient axisymmetric (two-dimensional) temperature field during repeated brake application has been proposed. The presented research is a subsequent stage of a previous study on the coupling of velocity and maximum temperature for a single braking in accordance with the system of equations of heat dynamics of friction and wear. In the analysed case, changes in the mean, flash, maximum and bulk temperature of the disc were determined and discussed. The calculations were carried out at the temperature-dependent coefficient of friction, the thermophysical properties of cast-iron disc combined with cermet brake pads and the time-varying contact pressure. The obtained results were compared with the reference values from the braking simulation at constant operating parameters and independent of temperature properties of materials. It was shown that the maximum values of the mean temperature for both cases differed slightly during the entire process. The flash temperature determined from the heat dynamics of friction and wear system of equations was the highest at the beginning and gradually decreased with the number of brake applications.
Pedestrian and cyclist detection based on deep neural network fast R-CNN
Authors: Wang Kelong , Zhou Wei
Published: March 2019

In this article, a unified joint detection framework for pedestrian and cyclist is established to realize the joint detection of pedestrian and cyclist targets. Based on the target detection of fast regional convolution neural network, a deep neural network model suitable for pedestrian and cyclist detection is established. Experiments for poor detection results for small-sized targets and complex and changeable background environment; various network improvement schemes such as difficult case extraction, multilayer feature fusion, and multitarget candidate region input were designed to improve detection and to solve the problems of frequent false detections and missed detections in pedestrian and cyclist target detection. Results of experimental verification of the pedestrian and cyclist database established in Beijing’s urban traffic environment showed that the proposed joint detection method for pedestrians and cyclists can realize the stable tracking of joint detection and clearly distinguish different target categories. Therefore, an important basis for the behavior decision of intelligent vehicles is provided.
The conundrum of clinical trials and standard of care in sub-Saharan Africa – the research nurse perspective
Authors: Frances Ndyetukira Jane , Kwizera Richard , Kugonza Florence , Ahimbisibwe Cynthia , Namujju Carol , Sadiq Alisat , Namudde Alice , Williams Darlisha , Abassi Mahsa , Rhein Joshua , Boulware David R , Meya David B
Published: March 2019

Background

Nurses form a very important part of the health workforce in sub-Saharan Africa. Research nurses are critical to the implementation of clinical trials. The duties and responsibilities of a research nurse are complex and continue to evolve as new practices and guidelines are formulated.

Aims

In this paper, we have highlighted the major contributions of research nurses in HIV clinical trials in sub-Saharan Africa from the unique perspective of Ugandan nurses.

Methods

The requirements and challenges of two multi-site, randomised cryptococcal meningitis clinical trials in Uganda were assessed from the perspective of research nurses conducting complex research in resource-limited settings.

Results

Over the course of 8 years, approximately 1739 participants were screened and 934 people were enrolled into the two trials. The nurses found that patient education and engagement were among the most important predictors of success in minimising loss to follow-up.

Conclusions

Research nurses played a key role in communicating clinical research goals to patients, obtaining informed consent, minimising loss to follow-up, and ensuring that research practices are translated and implemented into standard of care. However, there remains a need to integrate the same level of care provided in clinical research studies to non-study patients.
Green synthesis of trans-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-aryl-6,7-dihydro[1,3]dioxolo[4,5-f][1]benzofuran-6-yl)methanones in an aqueous medium
Authors: Reza Salari Mohammad , Mosslemin Mohammad H , Hassanabadi Alireza
Published: March 2019

A three-component one-pot condensation of 2-[2-(4-chlorophenyl)-2-oxoethyl)]isoquinolinium bromide with benzo[1,3]dioxol-5-ol and an arylglyoxal in the presence of catalytic amounts of 1,4-diaza-bicyclo[2.2.2]octane in refluxing water gave a series of seven trans-(4-chlorophenyl)-7-aryl-6,7-dihydro[1,3]dioxolo[4,5- f][1]benzofuran-6-yl)methanones in excellent yield and in a short time.
Sensitivity of batted-ball speed to swing speed models
Authors: Nevins Derek , Smith Lloyd , Kensrud Jeff
Published: March 2019

In baseball and softball, batted-ball velocities depend strongly on bat speed prior to contact. The purpose of this study was to characterize the sensitivity of hit. ball speed to swing speed models. A pitching machine was used to project balls at varying speeds considered to be age appropriate for female fastpitch softball batters ranging from 9 to 24 years of age. Participants swung bats of varying moment of inertia and high-speed video was used to measure bat and ball kinematics for each hit. Several power law swing speed models were compared, including a generic model for all participants, age-specific models and participant-specific models. In addition, an exponential Gaussian process regression model was used. Estimates of batted-ball speeds were obtained by coupling the swing speed models to a model of the bat–ball collision. The root mean square error of model estimates ranged from 2.3 to 5.0 rad/s for swing speed models and 3.6 to 8.5 m/s for batted-ball speed estimates. The Gaussian process regression model performance was similar to the participant-specific models (swing speed root mean square error = 2.4 rad/s; batted-ball speed root mean square error = 3.7 m/s). The correlation of the Gaussian process regression model with field measurements was surprising given the limited number of inputs, which warrants further investigation. Agreement between all power law models and field measurements improved when the bat moment of inertia about its instantaneous center of rotation (rather than about the knob) was considered. This information will be of use to players and coaches to improve batting performance and bat selection.
How to manipulate friends and influence practice: Application of complexity science leads to quality improvement in laboratory sample submissions
Authors: Simmons Mike , Daniel Sharon , Temple Mark
Published: March 2019

Background:

We sought to reduce healthcare-associated infections (HCAIs) through the application of complexity science.

Objective:

To confirm incidental findings that altering the structure of microbiology reports with targeted education led to better utilisation of laboratory resources, while participating in efforts to reduce HCAI.

Methods:

We adopted a different approach to laboratory result authorisation, using narrative to engage the clinicians and induce behavioural change. Subsequent educational opportunities emphasised key messages.

Findings/Results:

Positive urine means calculated by the analysis tool numbered 2179/month throughout the study period. Negative urines started at 5576/month, reduced to 5134/month in November 2014 and to 4602/month in April 2016, coinciding with our changes. Opportunity costs were saved.

Discussion:

The changes in both policy and reporting were contemporaneous with a decline in negative samples. There were no significant changes in the number of positive specimens. The efficiency and effectiveness of the laboratory was improved and resources released: £145,000 ($182,000) for a resident population of 384,000. This suggests an annual release of about £25 million ($31 million) may be possible in the UK and £122 million ($155 million) in the USA.
Is the ideal of independent regulation appropriate? Evidence from the United Kingdom
Authors: Thomas Steve
Published: March 2019

The liberalization of utilities has generally led to the creation of an economic regulator, nominally independent of government. The United Kingdom, as a pioneer of this process, has more than 30 years of experience with independent regulators. However, by 2019, the three main regulated utilities in the United Kingdom, energy, water and rail, were in disarray with a combination of high prices, poor service and a failure to achieve the goals of competition set at the time of the reforms. Government, the companies and the regulators must all bear the blame for this situation. We focus on the regulator in this article and argue that there a number of factors behind their failings including a concentration on economic issues to the detriment of other issues such as environment and public welfare, a lack of public accountability and a poor culture in the regulators based on a view that regulatory interventions were always counterproductive. Given that regulators are appointed by government and funded by Parliamentary vote, the claim of independence is not credible and there are circumstances when government should be able to overrule regulators in the broader public interest. We suggest that expanding the range of skills among the regulatory decision makers, regular rigorous Parliamentary scrutiny and a much stronger focus on the attributes consumers require – affordability, reliability and sustainability – rather than the current obsession with competition would improve the regulators’ performance.
Reflections on Doing Research with Young Children
Authors: Fasoli Lyn
Published: March 2019

Drawing on a larger critical case study, the writer uses Wenger's (1998) communities of practice framework to reflect on some examples of research practice that involved young children. In Wenger's framework, the research context is viewed as a set of situated social practices that are continually being negotiated by all participants. Most of these practices contain implicit and unstated assumptions about the overall purposes and expectations of the research, thus providing participants with few resources for participating in collaborative ways. As young children move into the research context, they are confronted with new ways of doing things. Being more experienced, the early childhood researcher can make research practice more transparent and assist children to participate more effectively, as collaborators rather than as subjects.
Children's Views and Children's Voices in Starting School
Authors: Dockett Sue , Perry Bob
Published: March 2019

The Starting School Research Project promotes the involvement of children in the research agenda. This paper explores some of the philosophical and methodological issues involved in this stance. The main focus of this paper is the voices of children reporting issues of significance to them as they start compulsory schooling, through drawings, descriptions, photographs and demonstrations.
Researching with Children: Lessons in Humility, Reciprocity, and Community
Authors: Sumsion Jennifer
Published: March 2019

I had assumed that my experience as a qualitative researcher accustomed to interviewing adults, and formerly as a teacher of young children, would be an adequate enough basis for undertaking research with children. My first inklings that investigating children's perceptions of their (male) preschool teacher would be far from straightforward surfaced when Bill* (the children's teacher) introduced me to them. He explained to the children that I would be sitting at the drawing and writing table and that I would like them to draw a picture of him, and to tell me about it. ‘Perhaps you could draw a picture of me in a pink dress,’ he joked.

I settled myself at the table and waited. The few children who approached the table that first morning were more interested in colouring Christmas decorations, the other activity available at the table that day, than in drawing a picture of Bill. ‘Bring some novelty pencils tomorrow’, advised Bill, ‘You need something to attract their interest’.

More children approached the table the following day, keen to use pencils topped with the plastic dinosaurs I'd hastily bought at the local toyshop the previous afternoon. It was clear, though, that the pencils were the drawcard, not the opportunity to draw and talk about Bill.

On my third day in the centre, I strategically ‘reserved’ the dinosaur pencils for children who agreed to draw a picture of Bill. He assisted by removing the colouring activity and channelling children toward me. Their ‘resistance’ was impressive. Sometimes subtle, more often overt, it took the form of rushed, scribbled drawings, multiple versions of Bill in a pink dress, ‘silly’ talk and ‘rough house’ play, almost identical comments, or no comments at all. Deflated and dejected, I retreated from the centre at the end of the week with little meaningful data, my stance as researcher severely challenged and disrupted.
Eclipsing Voice in Research with Young Children
Authors: MacNaughton Glenda
Published: March 2019

This article examines two vignettes taken from a research project designed to give voice to children's understandings of equity and social diversity in order to raise questions about how this project potentially reinforced inequities in children's lives. A rhizoanalysis of the vignettes is used to raise questions about how young children perform diverse discourses of ‘race’. This paper specifically focuses on the extent to which some of the voices produced in the research colluded in the production of racist and sexist practices. It uses this focus to raise questions generated through the rhizoanalysis for researchers who want to give voice to young children. Specifically, it asks if it is time for researchers to move beyond a concern for children's ‘voices’ and towards transforming inequitable power relations in our research with them.
Transitioning Children from Early Childhood Education to School: Teacher Beliefs and Transition Practices
Authors: Timperley Helen , McNaughton Stuart , Howie Lin , Robinson Viviane
Published: March 2019

Children's experience of the transition between early childhood education and school can have a long-term impact on their school achievement and retention. Although both practitioners and researchers often describe ideal transition arrangements in terms of collaboration between families and teachers in the two sectors, little is known about what this means in terms of practice. In this survey of early childhood educators and school teachers' beliefs and practices about the transition we found that, despite a commitment to collaborate, teachers from the two sectors had very different expectations of each other and most were dissatisfied with the current arrangements. They had insufficient knowledge of individual children's achievement to help the children utilize what they had learned in early childhood settings in their new school environment. Implications of this study for assisting teachers to develop more educationally defensible transition arrangements are discussed.
Parental Perceptions of Computer-Based Gaming Technology: An Evaluation of Children's Leisure Pursuits in the Computer Age
Authors: Clayton Belinda
Published: March 2019

This study is a quantitative and qualitative analysis of the primary leisure pursuits of children in the computer age. In a society dominated by electronic media, the conceptualisation of ‘leisure’ is rapidly changing and there is a perception that children are increasingly using technology as entertainment. In light of growing concerns that there may be an association between the use of television-based video games such as *Playstation and *Nintendo, and the increasing number of childhood behavioural disorders being diagnosed, these leisure pursuits are worthy of further investigation. The quantitative component of this research is a comparative analysis of leisure activities of six-to-eight-year-old children by gender. The qualitative component draws from parental responses to open-ended questions. The findings confirm the assumption that boys spend substantially more time engaged with interactive technological pursuits than do girls of the same age. However, the findings also suggest there is a growing level of parental anxiety concerning this social phenomenon. The parental concerns expressed in this study justify exploration, especially considering that this data reflects personal and confidential, first-hand observations of the physical and mental health of children.
Valuing Children
Authors: Porter Louise
Published: March 2019

Talk presented at Early Childhood Australia's Biennial conference, ‘Children – The core of society’. Hobart, July 2003
An Integrated Approach to Teaching Social Skills to Preschoolers at Risk
Authors: Buford Rhonda , Stegelin Dolores
Published: March 2019

Early childhood educators and early childhood special educators are charged with preparing all children for kindergarten and other inclusive settings. Some young children from at risk backgrounds have particular difficulty in developing the social skills necessary for these environments. Early childhood professionals in child care, Head Start, and other preschool settings have the opportunity and the responsibility to prepare at risk preschool children for the social demands of the kindergarten classroom. This article describes a method of teaching social skills that incorporates developmentally appropriate practice with more systematic, teacher-directed instruction.
How Working Parents Cope with the Care of Sick Young Children
Authors: Bear Harold , Lovejoy Frances , Daniel Ann
Published: March 2019

Previous research has documented that the failure of institutional child care to deal with the care of sick children is a widespread source of stress and dissatisfaction amongst working parents. Questionnaires distributed to working parents of young children through some Sydney child care centres netted 489 responses. The survey determined which parent generally cared for sick children, the impact on their job, and their feelings about combining work and parenting. Responses indicated that the gap in institutional child care services for sick children persists and remains a considerable source of parental dissatisfaction. Mothers in particular saw disruption to work to care for sick children as a particular problem in demonstrating commitment to their career and as a major source of guilt in their role of working parent.
Children, Staff and Parents: Building Respectful Relationships in New Zealand and Australian Early Childhood Contexts - The Australian Context
Authors: Mac Naughton Glenda
Published: March 2019

This paper shares the learnings from a collaborative action research project in which staff, parents and children from New Zealand and Australia participated. It explored the changing perspectives of staff, parents and children, on parental involvement in early childhood education. The research project in each country has unfolded differently, this paper will share case studies of what has emerged from these diverse trajectories – identifying issues and possibilities for building respectful relationships with staff and parents.
Teacher Communication across the Preschool–School Boundary
Authors: Hopps Kathryn
Published: March 2019

The issue of children's transitions from prior-to-school settings to school is a complex one which has been the focus of research for the past 30 years. To ease children's transitions, communication between teachers in preschools and schools is recommended by researchers and educational authorities. However, there are indications that this exchange of information about children, programs and expectations is not occurring very often or very well. This paper reports on a case study which investigates teachers' beliefs and attitudes towards preschool-school communication. The participants in the study identified a diverse set of reasons communication often does not occur and how these barriers may be overcome. The low regard for early childhood educators in the teaching profession was highlighted as well as different philosophies of children and teaching held by teachers in schools and preschools.
Socio-Cultural Matrix of Raising a Child with Food Allergies: Experiences of a Migrant Mother
Authors: Sanagavarapu Prathyusha
Published: March 2019

Children with life-threatening food allergies are increasing in number in Australia. A variety of foods such as dairy milk, peanut and tree nuts, fish and egg can cause severe allergic reactions in some children. The foods that cause allergies could trigger severe breathing difficulties (anaphylaxis) for these children and, if not treated immediately, could lead to death. Caring for a child with potentially life-threatening allergies has social, emotional, and financial consequences. This paper gives an insight into the psychosocial and cultural aspects and experiences of a migrant mother in raising a child with multiple and potentially life-threatening food allergies. It also advocates for improved and equitable access to child care for these children.
Transcript: ‘Can Run, Play on Bikes, Jump the Zoom Slide, and Play on the Swings’: Exploring the Value of Outdoor Play
Authors: Greenfield Cheryl
Published: March 2019

This paper explores some questions surrounding the provision of outdoor play for young children, and challenges adults who share responsibility for ‘creating future play’ to consider not only what we as adults value but also what children value about the outdoor environment The question is raised as to how the values we hold and the images we have of children impact on playground design. This paper shares some of the findings from a small pilot research project, which endeavoured to genuinely listen to children's views about their early childhood centre playground through the medium of photography. The findings endorsed the view that outdoor spaces are of significant importance to children and that children's voices not only need to be listened to but also are worthy of being listened to.
The Extramusical Effects of Music Lessons on Preschoolers
Authors: deVries Peter
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present study was to investigate the extramusical effects of a music education program in one preschool classroom over a period of six weeks. The class had not previously been exposed to regular music lessons. Readily available teaching resources containing sound recordings were used. Analysis revealed six themes that addressed the extramusical effect of music lessons: 1) involvement in music activities allowed children to release energy; 2) engagement in music-movement activities developed motor skills in children; 3) a variety of music activities promoted opportunities for student socialisation; 4) music activities provided opportunities for children to express themselves; 5) music contributed to sociodramatic play; and 6) music listening activities focused children's listening skills.
Multiple Ways of Knowing and Seeing: Reflections on the Renewed Vigour in Cearly Childhood Research
Authors: Kilderry Anna , Nolan Andrea , Noble Karen
Published: March 2019

This paper reflects on the current state of research in early childhood education and proposes that there is a renewed interest in research evident at present. Multiple perspectives of viewing early childhood are increasing, with research stretching the comfortable boundaries wider than seen before in Australia. This paper discusses how early childhood research is changing the way we consider childhood, and how its methods are now beginning to really embrace the child. Also discussed are some of the thought-provoking initiatives recently taken in such research and how the early childhood sector can benefit from its richness.
Take-Home Numeracy Kits for Preschool Children
Authors: Macmillan Agnes
Published: March 2019

This paper outlines the practical aspects of a project aimed to offer access to numerate knowledge for preschool children by providing them with take-home numeracy kits. A Koori preschool in an urban regional area of New South Wales, Australia, was involved in the project. The centre catered for 18 four- and five-year-old children. The two main resources for the project were numeracy-related activities, and interactive adult and peer support. In the first part of the paper observational transcripts of the children playing with the kits at the preschool are analysed according to Foundation and Transition Level outcomes and indicators for number (NSW Department of School Education, 1994). The second part of the paper clarifies and synthesises key aspects of culturally-situated learning: the children's mathematical language and problem-solving; the responsiveness of the teaching strategies; and the congruence between early childhood education philosophies and national numeracy policies.
Excellence in Television for Young Children—Entertainment, Engagement and Empowerment
Authors: Harrison Cathie
Published: March 2019

The notion of excellence in early childhood education is increasingly recognised as both subjective and problematic. The search for excellence can be, however, a motivating force for those committed to providing experiences that enrich and enhance the lives of young children within diverse Australian communities. This commitment is shared by the production team of the Australian television program, Play School. Play School seeks to achieve excellence by providing a program that not only entertains but also engages and empowers the young child as a creative, curious and capable participant. This paper provides an overview of the exploration of excellence within the development of the Play School program. The notion of the continuum ‘from entertainment, to engagement, to empowerment’ is explored as it impacts on the processes and production behind the scenes and program content of ABC Play School.
Strategies to Reduce the Bullying of Young Children with Asperger Syndrome
Authors: Attwood Tony
Published: March 2019

Bullying can start in a child's early school years, and this paper initially explains the distinct profile of behaviour and abilities of young children with Asperger Syndrome and why they can be more vulnerable than their peers to being the target of bullying. The paper subsequently describes a range of strategies designed to reduce the frequency and consequences of bullying on young children with Asperger Syndrome.
Indigenous Australian Perspectives in Early Childhood Education
Authors: Townsend-Cross Marcelle
Published: March 2019

A personal account of life experiences and research in relation to the concepts of respect, identity, relatedness and education offered by an Indigenous Australian woman reared by a non-Indigenous family in a non-Indigenous community. Western education philosophies—the goal of becoming the ‘self-realised individual’: the independent self who succeeds as powerful and autonomous—are comparatively analysed with Indigenous Australian education philosophies—the goal of becoming the ‘related individual’ to family, community and environmental resonance. Drawing on recent research initiated and conducted by Indigenous community organisations, Indigenous models for early childhood education are positioned as highly desirable for informing the future development of mainstream early childhood education policies.
Early Childhood Education Programs for Indigenous Children in Canada, Australia and New Zealand: An Historical Review
Authors: Prochner Larry
Published: March 2019

This article presents an outline history of early childhood programs for indigenous children through a comparative study of initiatives in three countries—Canada, Australia and New Zealand—with the aim being to identify common and distinct developments in the three nations. Formal early childhood education programs for indigenous children based on European models have a history that extends over 200 years. Yet this history is relatively unexplored. Although they mostly developed outside the structures of schooling for older children, programs for younger and older students shared a similar trajectory. The earliest initiatives were subject to missionary influence and colonial control, with later programs likely to be influenced by indigenous beliefs and values and be community-based and locally controlled.
Teachers who Support Reggio—Exploring Their Understandings of the Philosophy
Authors: Ardzejewska Kathie , Coutts Pamela M.
Published: March 2019

There is a growing recognition that for an educational innovation to be successful it needs to be more than a good idea—success requires an understanding of how change is implemented. Reggio, a widely-applied, innovative philosophy in early childhood settings, has some support in primary schools. Yet there is very little research to guide primary teachers interested in incorporating it into their teaching practice. This study begins to address this issue by investigating whether teachers committed to Reggio: a) have a deep understanding of the philosophy; b) distinguish a difference between the original and their own sociopolitical and cultural contexts; and c) report utilising this knowledge in their practice. The findings of the research underscore the importance of knowledge of the change process and the need for debate regarding Reggio in primary school settings.
In Whose Interest? Voluntarism and Child Care, 1880–1980
Authors: Swain Shurlee
Published: March 2019

This paper examines three periods in the history of child care: nineteenth-century creches, World War II day nurseries, and the 1970s Community Child Care movement. It argues that, in each of these periods, the services were shaped by three sets of competing interests: those of the mothers who needed or wanted to work; their children; and the volunteer committees or collectives anxious to ‘rescue’ children from forms of care they considered unsuitable. The final resolution, in each case, reflected not simply a response to the needs of working women and their children but rather a more complex process that often owed at least as much to the values of the service providers as those of the mothers and children in their care.
Critical Pedagogy: A Useful Framework for Thinking about Early Childhood Curriculum
Authors: Kilderry Anna
Published: March 2019

In this time of rapid curriculum change within early childhood education, critical pedagogy is an ideal framework from which to view early childhood curriculum practice and research. It is the intention of this paper to provide a snapshot of the basic tenets of critical pedagogy and how these can be applied to early childhood curricular decision-making, particularly in relation to preschool education. This paper is conceptual in its make up and maintains that early childhood education benefits from being part of the inter-sectoral curricular discourse. Its aim is to familiarise early childhood educators and researchers with the language of critique offered by critical pedagogy and show how this can be a useful framework for thinking about early childhood curriculum.