bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of recycling number on the mechanical, chemical, thermal and rheological properties of poly(butylene terephthalate)/polycarbonate binary blend and glass-fibre-reinforced composite
Authors: Kuram Emel , Ozcelik Babur , Yilmaz Faruk
Published: February 2015

Poly(butylene terephthalate)/polycarbonate (PBT/PC) binary blend was reprocessed by repeated injection moulding process to explore whether recycling is possible for this polymer blend. In the current study, PBT/PC blends were reprocessed until five processing cycles and the mechanical, chemical, thermal, and rheological properties of recycled PBT/PC blends were evaluated after each reprocessing cycle. The recycling of the glass-fibre-reinforced PBT/PC composites was also investigated in this study. From the experimental results, it was concluded that recycled glass-fibre-reinforced PBT/PC (PBT/PC-GF) composites showed better mechanical properties in comparison to virgin PBT/PC binary blends and fifth recycled PBT/PC-GF composite could be used instead of virgin PBT/PC. It was also found that PBT/PC binary blend was a suitable material for the recycling process and this polymer blend did not suffer any significant deterioration.
Prediction of thermal conductivity of composite polymer materials filled with expanded graphite sheet fillers
Authors: Wang Xiaojian , Wang Liangcheng , Liu Baoyong
Published: February 2015

Adding fillers of high thermal conductivity to the base polymer materials is a solution to make composites of high thermal conductivity. Expanded graphite sheets have been recognized as an economic and efficient filler material to make composite polymers of high conductivity. However, the prediction of the effective thermal conductivity of the composite materials is a difficult task due to the random nature in fillers distribution. The anisotropic properties of the sheet fillers make the heat transfer analysis difficult. In this study, a conjugate heat conduction model considering the random distribution nature of fillers is set up and numerically solved. A validated commercial software FLUENT and finite volume method was used in the analysis. Then an experiment is done to validate the model. The numerical results are used to summarize a correlation for the prediction of the effective thermal conductivity of the composite materials. It is found that the filler height to thickness ratio plays an important role in intensifying the heat conduction in the composite materials. At a given filler content, the graphite sheets should be fabricated thin enough to have higher height to thickness ratios and consequently higher performance in effective conductivity.
Linking Bonding and Bridging Ownership Social Capital in Private Firms
Authors: Uhlaner Lorraine M. , Matser Ilse A. , Berent-Braun Marta M. , Flören Roberto H.
Published: February 2015

This study examines the relationship between bonding and bridging ownership social capital (OSC) for a random sample of 679 privately held small and medium-sized firms. Results confirm the positive effects of bonding OSC (quality of relationships and shared vision) on bridging OSC (network mobilization) as well as two- and three-way moderator effects of family firm identity and ownership–management overlap. Moderator effects are more robust, however, for the shared vision indicator of bonding OSC. Implications for social capital theory, social and organizational identity theory, and family firm research and practice are discussed.
WORD: Hip-Hop, Language, and Indigeneity in the Americas
Authors: Navarro Jenell
Published: February 2015

Indigenous hip-hop artists throughout the Americas are currently challenging cultural genocide and contemporary post-racial discourse by utilizing ancestral languages in hip-hop cultural production. While the effects of settler colonialism and white supremacy have been far-reaching genocidal projects throughout the Americas, one primary site of resistance has been language. Artists such as Tall Paul (Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe), Tolteka (Mexica), and Los Nin (Quecha), who rap in Ojibwe, Nahuatl, and Kichwa respectively, trouble the pervasive structure of U.S. cultural imperialism that persists throughout the Americas. As a result, Indigenous hip-hop is a medium to engage the process of decolonization by 1) disseminating a conscious pan-indigeneity through lyricism and alliance building, 2) retaining and teaching Indigenous languages in their songs, and 3) implementing a radical orality in their verses that revitalizes both Indigenous oral traditions/storytelling and the early message rap of the 1970s and 1980s.
Ideals of parenting and childhood in the contact zone of intercountry adoption: Assessment of second-time adoption applicants in Sweden
Authors: Lindgren Cecilia
Published: February 2015

Intercountry adoption is a global phenomenon, a contact zone in which notions of ‘good parents’ and ‘the child’s best interest’ are negotiated. This article explores what norms of parenthood and childhood Sweden, as a receiving country, communicates in the global flow of children and ideas. Adoption assessment reports are examined, with a focus on how adoption applicants are portrayed and how ‘good parents’ are thereby constructed. The analysis demonstrates how certain qualities, for example, being loving, self-sacrificing and child-centred, are ascribed to applicants, and how the presentation of ‘good parents’ also defines a proper childhood.
Relaxation behavior of nanographite-reinforced silicon elastomer nanocomposites
Authors: Saji Janita , Khare Ayush , Mahapatra Shyama Prasad
Published: February 2015

Dynamic mechanical and dielectric relaxation spectra (DRS) of nanographite-reinforced silicon elastomer nanocomposites were studied. Scanning electron microscopic photomicrographs show well dispersion of nanographite in elastomer matrix. The primary relaxations (α transition and glass transition) have been studied by dynamic mechanical analysis as a function of temperature (−100 to 100°C) at a frequency of 1 Hz and at 1% strain. Irrespective of the nanographite loading, all nanocomposites show glass transition temperature in the range of −11 to −6°C, which was explained on the basis of the relaxation dynamics of silicon matrix. Storage modulus ( E′) shows elastic property and loss modulus shows viscous property of silicon nanocomposites as a function of temperature. Cole–Cole plots exhibit nonlinearity in the nanocomposite matrix. The nonlinearity in the plot between tan δ and E′ is explained by the concept of nanographite silicon interactions and the aggregation of the nanographite. The secondary relaxation (secondary, α* or β) has been studied using DRS in the frequency range of 10−1–106 Hz. The capacitance of the nanocomposite is expressed in terms of dielectric permittivity and explained on the basis of polarization of the nanographite in the silicon matrix. The dielectric modulus formalism has been utilized to further investigate the conductivity and relaxation phenomenon. Argand diagram confirms the existence of non-Debye/nonlinear relationship. The percolation threshold as studied by conductivity and dielectric permittivity measurements is found to be at 6 phr nanographite loading.
Facile synthesis of novel poly(arylene ether)s containing N-arylenebenzimidazolyl groups via C–N/C–O coupling reaction
Authors: Xu Yewei , Sun Yi , Lei Yonglin , Huo Jichuan , Zhang Lin
Published: February 2015

This article presents a convenient polymerization route to synthesize poly(arylene ether)s containing N-arylenebenzimidazolyl groups. The novel polymers were prepared by a catalyst-free nucleophilic substitution reaction, in which the N–H and O–H sites were removed from 2-(2-hydroxyphenyl)-1H-benzimidazole with different activated difluorides containing carbonyl groups in sulfolane. The reaction was carried out in the presence of anhydrous potassium carbonate at 210°C. The structures of the polymers were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The results show good agreement with the proposed structure. All resulting polymers show essentially amorphous patterns. Moreover, differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetric measurements show that the polymers have high glass transition temperatures (>209°C), good thermostability, and high decomposition temperatures (>425°C). Furthermore, the polymers also exhibit excellent solubility in common organic solvents.
Development of sheet hydroforming for making an automobile fuel tank
Authors: Hu Huiwen , Wang Jin-Fu , Fan Kai-Ti , Chen Ting-yu , Wang Sheng-Yuan
Published: February 2015

This article aims at the development of sheet hydroforming for making an aluminum automobile fuel tank which is originally made by steel. Finite element model, including punch, blank, blank holder, binder and die cavity, is established in the first place. A commercial code LS-DYNA is used to simulate the forming process. Simulations are performed to investigate the design parameters, such as pressure, holding force, punch feeding and geometry of blank trimming, which are used for the experiment of prototyping. The prototypes of aluminum fuel tank are then fabricated and used to validate the simulation results. The experimental results show that simulations successfully predict the geometry, size, thickness distributions and location of maximum thinning ratio of aluminum fuel tank using sheet hydroforming.
Convex optimisation method for time-optimal feedrate planning with complex constraints
Authors: Fan Wengang , Fang Chenxi , Ye Peiqing , Shi Shaohua , Zhang Xiang
Published: February 2015

Time-optimal feedrate planning theory has been widely applied in high-speed machining to improve machining efficiencies with a specified trajectory accuracy by fully exploiting the capabilities of high-speed computer numerical control machine tools. Reasonable and effective constraints conforming to practical situations are necessary conditions for obtaining optimal planning results. In this article, complex constraints, such as the motor torque constraint, the contour error constraint, the friction error constraint, the instruction velocity constraint and the smooth velocity constraint, are investigated in depth. Moreover, an efficient convex optimisation method is developed to address the time-optimal feedrate planning problem with these complex constraints. The experimental results from two feedrate planning tests and the computational efficiency for a test trajectory demonstrate the validity, stability and high efficiency of the proposed approach.
Dynamics of disc storing mechanism with joint clearance driven by hydraulic cylinder
Authors: Guo Y , Liu DS , Huang LP , Jiang M , Jin YP
Published: February 2015

Disc storing mechanism driven by hydraulic cylinder is the key component to ensure the deep sea coring. However, clearance is inevitable for assembly in joint of mechanism lead to poor operational characteristics. To ensure design and working reliability, disc storing mechanism driven by hydraulic cylinder for benthic drill with clearance is analyzed from a dynamic view. With piston rod be equivalent to slider, engaging lugs at end of cylinder to revolute joint and contact impact model deal with clearance, the dynamic model of disc storing mechanism driving by piston rod is present. The simulation model for the mechanism with clearance driven by cylinder using Simulink is established and analysis of dynamics is investigated. The simulation results for the case with and without clearance are evaluated under different driving conditions for motion characteristics and driving force. The effect of clearance to disc storing mechanism driven by hydraulic cylinder is found. These supply a lead for moving parameters choosing and a theory basis for key parts designing of the mechanism.
Depletion of cellular adenosine triphosphate and hepatocellular damage in rat after subchronic exposure to leachate from anthropogenic recycling site
Authors: Akintunde JK , Oboh G
Published: February 2015

One of the major hazards arising from recycling sites is the generation of leachate containing mixed metal. This study evaluated the toxic effects of leachate obtained from Elewi Odo municipal auto-battery recycling site (EOMABRSL) on male liver functions using hepatic indices and biomarker of cellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in rat via the oral route. Concentrations of heavy metals analysis showed that lead, cadmium, nickel, chromium, manganese, and iron were 1.5-, 2-, 2.5-, 1.36-, 19.61-, and 8.89-folds, respectively, higher than acceptable limits set by regulatory authority World Health Organization. Copper, zinc, and cobalt were 5.9-, 300-, and 1.02-folds, respectively, lower than permissible limits. The EOMABRSL was administered at 20, 40, 60, 80, and 100% concentrations to adult male rats for 60 days. Following exposure, plasma and livers were collected for several biochemistry assays. Exposure of animals to EOMABRSL resulted in 27.51, 28.14, 63.93, 28.42, and 40.16% increase in aspartate aminotransferase activity, whereas it elevated alanine aminotransferase activity by 5.35, 22.33, 88.68, 183.02, and 193.08%, respectively, when compared with the control. Similarly, γ-glutamyl transferase activity increased by 111.22, 114.19, 122.96, 573.14, and 437.02%, respectively, when compared with the control. EOMABRSL administration significantly decreased catalase activity and reduced glutathione level and superoxide dismutase with concomitant increase in malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide levels. Also, significant ( p < 0.05) decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity (marker of cellular ATP) was observed. Taken together, the hepatotoxicity of EOMABRSL could be due to the depletion of LDH and induction of oxidative damage, which may suggest possible health hazards in subjects with occupational or environmental exposure.
In vitro screening of inhibition of PPAR-γ activity as a first step in identification of potential breast carcinogens
Authors: Kopp TI , Lundqvist J , Petersen RK , Oskarsson A , Kristiansen K , Nellemann C , Vogel U
Published: February 2015

Alcohol consumption and increased estrogen levels are major risk factors for breast cancer, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPAR-γ) plays an important role in alcohol-induced breast cancer. PPAR-γ activity is inhibited by ethanol, leading to increased aromatase activity and estrogen biosynthesis ultimately leading to breast cancer. If other organic solvents inhibit PPAR-γ activity, they should also lead to increased oestrogen biosynthesis and thus be potential breast carcinogens. Ten commonly used hydrophilic organic solvents were first tested in a cell-based screening assay for inhibitory effects on PPAR-γ transactivation. The chemicals shown to inhibit PPAR-γ were tested with vectors encoding PPAR-γ with deleted AB domains and only the ligand-binding domain to rule out unspecific toxicity. Next, the effects on biosynthesis of estradiol, testosterone and oestrone sulphate were measured in the H295R steroidogenesis assay after incubation with the chemicals. Ethylene glycol, ethyl acetate, and dimethyl sulphoxide inhibited PPAR-γ transactivation in a dose-dependent manner. The inhibitory effect on PPAR-γ was specific for PPAR-γ since the AB domain of PPAR-γ was required for the inhibitory effect. In the second step, ethylene glycol significantly increased production of oestradiol by 19% ( p < 0.05) and ethyl acetate inhibited production of testosterone ( p < 0.05). We here show that screening of 10 commonly used organic solvents for the ability to inhibit PPAR-γ transactivation followed by a well-established steroidogenesis assay for production of sex hormones in exposed H295 R cells may provide a screening tool for potential breast carcinogens. This initial screening thus identified ethylene glycol and possibly ethyl acetate as potential breast carcinogens.
Tacrolimus and mycophenolate mofetil associations
Authors: Ferjani H , Achour A , Bacha H , Abid S
Published: February 2015

Gastrointestinal risk factors after organ transplantation are prevalent, due to the chronic use of immunosuppressant. The immunosuppressive drugs such as tacrolimus/mycophenolate mofetil (TAC/MMF) association are the most commonly used therapy. TAC and MMF have been implicated in gastrotoxicity, but their direct effects, alone and combined, on intestinal cells are not completely elucidated. This study investigated the effect of TAC and MMF alone and combined on human colon carcinoma cells. Our results demonstrated that TAC and MMF individually inhibit clearly cells proliferation, enhanced free radicals, lipid peroxidation production, induced DNA lesions and reduced mitochondrial membrane potential. In this study, we also showed that the two molecules TAC and MMF combined at high concentrations amplified the cell damage. Furthermore, the TAC (5 µM) prevented cell death induced by MMF (half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50)). Also, MMF (50 µM) induced cytoprotection in HCT116 cells against TAC (IC50) toxicity. Our findings provide additional evidence that oxidative damage is the major contribution of TAC and MMF combined toxicities. In fact, MMF and TAC exert a gastroprotective effect by modulating reactive oxygen species production. These data underscore the pleiotropic effect of TAC and MMF on HCT116 cells that play a preventive and critical role on intestinal function.
Law on a Slanted Globe
Authors: Wilke Christiane
Published: February 2015

How do legal norms travel, spread, and change along the way? This article investigates the travels of one model of criminal responsibility for state violence as part of the global project of transitional justice. Claus Roxin’s model was first published in West Germany 1963 in order to address impunity for Nazi crimes, was not applied in its intended context, made its judicial debut in Argentina in 1985, had a comeback in Germany in 1994, traveled throughout Latin America, and was taken up at the International Criminal Court. This case study leads to three conclusions about the travel of legal concepts. First, the appeal of theoretical concepts has much to do with the context in which they are used. Second, traveling keeps concepts alive and changes them. Third, transitional justice and responsibility practices have become global and transnationalized in ways that highlight broader global inequalities and transnational hierarchies.
When they listen and when they watch: Pianists’ use of nonverbal audio and visual cues during duet performance
Authors: Bishop Laura , Goebl Werner
Published: February 2015

Nonverbal auditory and visual communication helps ensemble musicians predict each other’s intentions and coordinate their actions. When structural characteristics of the music make predicting co-performers’ intentions diﬃcult (e.g., following long pauses or during ritardandi), reliance on incoming auditory and visual signals may change. This study tested whether attention to visual cues during piano–piano and piano–violin duet performance increases in such situations. Pianists performed the secondo part to three duets, synchronizing with recordings of violinists or pianists playing the primo parts. Secondos’ access to incoming audio and visual signals and to their own auditory feedback was manipulated. Synchronization was most successful when primo audio was available, deteriorating when primo audio was removed and only cues from primo visual signals were available. Visual cues were used eﬀectively following long pauses in the music, however, even in the absence of primo audio. Synchronization was unaﬀected by the removal of secondos’ own auditory feedback. Diﬀerences were observed in how successfully piano–piano and piano–violin duos synchronized, but these eﬀects of instrument pairing were not consistent across pieces. Pianists’ success at synchronizing with violinists and other pianists is likely moderated by piece characteristics and individual diﬀerences in the clarity of cueing gestures used.
Evaluation of a Resource for Adolescents and Young Adults Diagnosed With Cancer
Authors: McDonald Fiona E. J. , Patterson Pandora
Published: February 2015

Purpose: Adolescents and young adults (AYAs) have a need for information about their cancer diagnosis. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a book for AYAs diagnosed with cancer, in particular to assess satisfaction, changes in perceived knowledge and coping, the impact of health literacy (HL) on perceived knowledge, and the impact of the book on distress levels. Methods: Forty-six AYAs (12-24 years of age) completed questionnaires before and after receiving the Now What . . . ? book designed to provide broad and comprehensive information to AYAs with cancer. Results: Overall satisfaction with the book was excellent. Levels of perceived knowledge increased in several domains; however, levels of distress, which were elevated, did not improve after participants received the book. Levels of HL related to prebook perceived knowledge, but not to postbook perceived knowledge, suggested that the book is useful for people with all levels of HL. Conclusions: The usefulness and high levels of satisfaction with the book, including the qualitative feedback, demonstrate the potential benefit of the Now What . . . ? books for AYA patients diagnosed with cancer.
Designing a Metasynthesis Study in Pediatric Oncology Nursing Research
Authors: Sigurdson Corey , Woodgate Roberta
Published: February 2015

The synthesis of qualitative evidence is called metasynthesis. The term metasynthesis describes both a group of methods used to integrate the findings of individual qualitative research studies and the end product of a metasynthesis research project. In this article, pediatric oncology nurses are encouraged to use metasynthesis research to facilitate the integration of the existing body of qualitative pediatric oncology nursing research into practice. For pediatric oncology nurses to be successful in metasynthesis research, they require practical guidance in navigating the terminology and methodology of this evolving research design. Misconceptions about metasynthesis research, types of metasynthesis research designs, steps involved in developing a metasynthesis study, and the benefits and challenges of using metasynthesis in pediatric oncology research are presented. Examples of studies that have used 2 distinct metasynthesis techniques are provided.
Implementing a Daily Maintenance Care Bundle to Prevent Central Line–Associated Bloodstream Infections in Pediatric Oncology Patients
Authors: Duffy Elizabeth A. , Rodgers Cheryl C. , Shever Leah L. , Hockenberry Marilyn J.
Published: February 2015

Eliminating central line–associated bloodstream infection (CLABSI) is a national priority. Central venous catheter (CVC) care bundles are composed of a series of interventions that, when used together, are effective in preventing CLABSI. A CVC daily maintenance care bundle includes procedural guidelines for hygiene, dressing changes, and access as well as specific timeframes. Failure to complete one of the components of the care bundle predisposes the patient to a bloodstream infection. A nurse-led multidisciplinary team implemented and, for six months, sustained a daily maintenance care bundle for pediatric oncology patients. This quality improvement project focused on nursing staffs’ implementation of the daily maintenance care bundle and the sustainment of the intervention. The project used a pre–post program design to evaluate outcomes of CVC daily maintenance care bundle compliancy and CLABSI. A statistically significant increase between the pre- and post-assessments of the compliance was noted with the CVC daily maintenance care bundle. CLABSI infection rates decreased during the intervention. Strategies to implement practice change and promote sustainability are discussed.
Screening for Distress in Young People After Treatment for Sarcoma
Authors: Weiner Ben , Michelagnoli Maria , Drake Ruth , Christie Deborah
Published: February 2015

Few validated tools are available in childhood cancers settings to assess distress and worry. Twenty-one young people (mean age = 14 years), with an average 4 years since diagnosis, attended a sarcoma follow-up clinic and were asked to complete questionnaires assessing general mood and behavior, quality of life, and distress. All young people completed the Distress Thermometer. However, as the age range was quite wide (9-18 years), different questionnaires were also used with different age groups to assess feasibility and acceptance. In addition, young people were asked for their views about the questionnaires they had completed, asked about previous psychological support, and were asked to rate how useful they had found the medical appointment. Finally, they were asked whether or not they would like a member of the psychology team to contact them to discuss any issues that had been raised by the questionnaires. Patients reported impaired health status and worry about lifestyle, daily activities, and emotional well-being. A health-related quality of life measure (EQ-5D) and an adapted version of the Distress Thermometer were more sensitive than traditional measures and may serve as useful tools to screen for psychological concerns in busy clinical settings.
“It’s not Just Camp!”
Authors: Laing Catherine M. , Moules Nancy J.
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this philosophical hermeneutic inquiry was to understand the meaning of children’s cancer camps for the child with cancer and the family. Six childhood cancer families and 5 cancer camp counselors were interviewed, in order to bring understanding to this topic. Findings from this research revealed that camp means different things for different families, and that much is at play in the cancer camp experience: the healing and developmental power of play, finding acceptance and fit, grief as something to live with versus “get over,” storytelling as a means of reshaping and understanding traumatic experiences, and the solidarity of the community as one that creates intense, healing bonds. Children’s cancer camps, we conclude, should be considered a necessity, versus a luxury, and could even be thought of as a psychosocial intervention for some children and families. Barriers such as structure of funding and access to resources are present and likely due to the separateness of camps from hospital programs.
Yoga for Children and Adolescents After Completing Cancer Treatment
Authors: Hooke Mary C. , Gilchrist Laura , Foster Laurie , Langevin Mary , Lee Jill
Published: February 2015

Survivors of childhood cancer may experience persistent symptoms, including fatigue, sleep disturbance, and balance impairment. Yoga is a complementary therapy that improves fatigue, sleep, and quality of life in adult cancer survivors. Using a one group, repeated measures design, we evaluated the feasibility of a yoga program and assessed if cancer survivor participants ages 10 to 17 years (n = 13) had significantly less fatigue and anxiety, and better balance and sleep, after a 6-week yoga intervention compared with a 6-week pre-intervention wait period. Study recruitment was challenging with a 32% enrollment rate; yoga attendance was 90%. None of the scores for anxiety, fatigue, sleep, and balance had significant changes during the wait period. After the 6-week yoga program, children (n = 7) had a significant decrease in anxiety score ( P = .04) while adolescent scores (n = 7) showed a decreasing trend ( P = .10). Scores for fatigue, sleep, and balance remained stable post-intervention. Fatigue and balance scores were below norms for health children/adolescents while sleep and anxiety scores were similar to healthy peers.
Citizen Complaints as Threats To Police Legitimacy
Authors: Terrill William , Paoline Eugene A.
Published: February 2015

Citizen complaints of police misconduct represent formal expressions of procedural injustice and can thereby threaten police legitimacy. Although prior explanations of complaints have focused primarily on officer demographics, police occupational attitudes have been ignored. The current study fills this empirical void by analyzing data collected from the Assessing Police Use of Force Policy and Outcomes project. We examine the role of patrol officers’ global assessments of their occupation, and specific facets of their internal and external work environments, on overall citizen complaints, as well as allegations of officer discourtesy and improper use of force. Results from our multivariate models reveal a number of attitudinal effects. The implications of these findings for police practitioners and researchers are considered.
Home Care of Children With Diarrhea in Bangui’s Therapeutic Landscape (Central African Republic)
Authors: Giles-Vernick Tamara , Bainilago Louis , Fofana Moussa , Bata Petulla , Vray Muriel
Published: February 2015

We explore how the therapeutic landscape of Bangui, capital of the Central African Republic, shaped and reflected caregivers’ home care of childhood diarrhea. Using interviews, group discussions, and participant observation, we found that caregivers described several categories of diarrhea, but in practice, adopted an experimental approach to home diarrheal care. Many managed incertitude by initially dosing children with street medicines and herbal infusions; they delayed seeking professional medical care to avoid expenses, observed their children’s symptoms, consulted social networks, and used therapeutic foods. The logics underpinning these practices emerged from caregivers’ conviction that diarrhea necessitated medical therapy and restricted choices within Bangui’s therapeutic landscape, a consequence of lengthy political economic crisis. This crisis impoverished Bangui populations, eroded formal health care, and sharpened religious differences, discouraging care seeking from traditional healers. Analyses of therapeutic landscapes illuminate why caregivers embraced specific practices and logics and should guide the elaboration of more effective public health interventions.
Regulating Timeliness
Authors: Kielbowicz Richard B.
Published: February 2015

The advent of telegraphy in the United States shifted newsgathering from the public postal system to a private network dominated by telegraph companies and wire services, a nearly simultaneous revolution in journalism’s technology and political economy. Postal newsgathering had been open to all newspapers with few costs and constraints, while its telegraphic successor developed amid a web of regulations. A changing configuration of occupational rules, private business arrangements, and public laws regulated each stage in the production of telegraphic news, from source–reporter interactions to post-publication liability. This monograph analyzes the origins of rules that governed timely news—determining who got it, how fast, and on what terms—from the advent of telecommunication to the eclipse of telegraphic news relays.
Writing Workshop Revisited
Authors: Scarbrough Burke , Allen Anna-Ruth
Published: February 2015

Workshop pedagogy is a staple of writing classrooms at all levels. However, little research has explored the pedagogical moves that can address longstanding critiques of writing workshop, nor the sorts of rhetorical challenges that teachers and students in secondary classrooms can tackle through workshops. This article documents and analyzes the work that two high school educators do to organize a writing workshop around the writing and performance of spoken word poetry. Through a qualitative case study of a four-week spoken word poetry unit, we present features of the unit that both align with tenets of traditional workshop pedagogy and focus that pedagogy on the social and cultural situatedness of literacy. We show that the teachers in this case organized the classroom as a strong discursive community (Matusov, 2007) characterized by collective engagement with a genre, anticipation of a real audience, and renegotiation of classroom authority. We then analyze two discussions that arose during the unit in order to explore how students and teachers grappled with key dilemmas at the heart of writing well: how to shape one’s text and message for an authentic audience, and what role(s) teachers and peers should play in students’ writing. The analysis suggests that engagement with critical literacy practices like spoken word poetry can leverage writing workshop in ways that highlight the cultural and political dimensions of literacy pedagogy. We conclude by discussing how the communicative dilemmas that arose in this classroom relate to common goals of literacy curriculum, teaching, and research more broadly.
Does Increased Consolidated Nighttime Sleep Facilitate Attentional Control? A Pilot Study of Nap Restriction in Preschoolers
Authors: Lam Janet C. , Koriakin Taylor A. , Scharf Steven M. , Mason Thornton B. A. , Mahone E. Mark
Published: February 2015

Objective: The aim of this study is to understand the impact of a 5-day period of nap restriction on sleep patterns and cognitive function in typically developing preschoolers, aged 3 to 4 years. Method: Following 1 week of baseline assessment, 28 children were randomly assigned to either a “napping as usual” group ( n = 15) or a 5-day period of nap restriction ( n = 13). Sleep was assessed with sleep logs and actigraphy; cognition was assessed at baseline and at the end of the intervention week. Results: No group differences in sleep or cognitive function were observed at baseline. For the no-nap group, the 5-day period of daytime nap restriction resulted in increased nighttime sleep. Children in the no-nap group also showed a significant improvement in attentional control compared with baseline, whereas no such changes were observed among children in the napping-as-usual group. Conclusion: In preschool children who typically take naps, short-term nap restriction is associated with increased nighttime sleep and may contribute to improved attentional function.
A vacationer-driven approach to understand destination image
Authors: Tkaczynski Aaron , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn R , Cretchley Julia
Published: February 2015

Destination image studies have largely centred upon conceptualizing destination image through a variety of methods that are predominantly researcher driven. Whilst this has furthered our understanding of how vacationers perceive a destination(s) on key reference criteria, the researcher-driven process may artificially increase the salience of some attributes. The purpose of this study was to showcase how a vacationer-driven approach employing Leximancer may be used to understand destination image by enabling vacationers to drive the attributes and sentiments of importance. Based on a sample of 517 vacationers to the Fraser Coast, respondents were able to identify nine themes. Theoretical, methodological and practical implications are presented and recommendations and future research opportunities are outlined.
Bodybuilders’ accounts of synthol use: The construction of lay expertise online
Authors: Hall Matthew , Grogan Sarah , Gough Brendan
Published: February 2015

Synthol is an injectable oil used by bodybuilders to make muscles appear bigger. Widely available on the Internet, it is reported to carry a wide range of health risks and side effects such as localised skin problems, nerve damage and oil-filled cysts, as well as muscle damage and the development of scar tissue. Given the tension between health risk and quick muscle enlargement, how lay users explain and justify their synthol intake becomes an important question. Drawing on discourse analysis, we focus on how lay expertise is worked up by users in the absence of available specialist knowledge by invoking medical and pharmaceutical discourses as legitimation, providing novices with support, gaining trust through positive personal narratives and thus gaining credibility as experts. Results have clear implications for health promotion interventions with bodybuilders.
The significance of socially-assigned ethnicity for self-identified Māori accessing and engaging with primary healthcare in New Zealand
Authors: Reid Jennifer , Cormack Donna , Crowe Marie
Published: February 2015

Despite increased focus in New Zealand on reducing health inequities between Māori and New Zealand European ethnic groups, research on barriers and facilitators to primary healthcare access for Māori remains limited. In particular, there has been little interrogation of the significance of social-assignment of ethnicity for Māori in relation to engagement with predominantly non-Māori primary healthcare services and providers. A qualitative study was undertaken with a subsample (n = 40) of the broader Hauora Manawa Study to examine experiences of accessing and engaging with primary healthcare among adult urban Māori. Thematic analysis of in-depth interviews identified that participants perceived social-assignment as New Zealand European as an efficacious form of capital when interacting with predominantly non-Māori health professionals. Skin colour that was ‘white’ or was perceived to identify Māori as belonging to the ‘dominant’ New Zealand European ethnic group was reported as broadly advantageous and protective. In contrast, social-assignment as Māori was seen to be associated with risk of exposure to differential and discriminatory healthcare. Reducing the negative impacts of racialisation in a (neo)colonial society where ‘White’ cultural capital dominates requires increased recognition of the health-protective advantages of ‘White’ privilege and concomitant risks associated with socially-assigned categorisation of ethnicity as non-‘White’.
The effect of resource competition on Blacks’ and Asians’ social distance using a virtual world methodology
Authors: Tawa John , Negrón Rosalyn , Suyemoto Karen L. , Carter Alice S.
Published: February 2015

Studies of intergroup social distance have focused primarily on relations between dominant and minority groups, rather than between minority groups. In this study, various dimensions of resource competition relevant to group threat theory were contrasted. Black ( n = 39), Asian ( n = 53), and White ( n = 118) participants developed self-resembling avatars and interacted in a virtual world in which various types of resource competition contexts were simulated. Avatars’ movements were tracked and dynamic social distances between each participant dyad and between each participant and each racial group as a whole (Black, Asian, and White) were computed. Growth curve analyses indicated that in the absence of resource competition, social distance between individuals and groups diminished over time. In contrast, resource competition tended to increase social distance between individuals and groups over time. In particular, merit-based resource competition increased Black participants’ social distance to Asians relative to White participants’ social distance to Asians. Findings are discussed in relation to the context of historical dissention between Blacks and Asians, and implications for the promotion of positive race relations.
Players’ perspectives on the positive impact of video games: A qualitative content analysis of online forum discussions
Authors: Bourgonjon Jeroen , Vandermeersche Geert , De Wever Bram , Soetaert Ronald , Valcke Martin
Published: February 2015

On game forums, players often discuss the positive impact of video games on their lives. We collected 964 messages from top ranked game forums ( viaAlexa.com ) and analyzed them using a coding scheme based on an existing taxonomy about the impact of the arts. This directed qualitative content analysis resulted in an exploration of how players’ talk about the impact of video games reflects broader cultural rhetorics. By analyzing players’ positive experiences using a theory-based coding scheme that is attentive to the wide array of effects that have been ascribed to the arts, this study offers a broad perspective on the attributed impact of video games.
Adorno’s position in the positivism dispute: A historical perspective
Authors: Lichtblau Klaus
Published: February 2015

The article reconstructs Adorno’s position in the German Positivismusstreit. It tracks the history of his thought from his first postwar lecture course at the University of Frankfurt, in WS 1949/1950, to his introduction for the 1969 volume Der Positivismusstreit in der deutschen Soziologie, later translated into English as The Positivist Dispute in German Sociology.
‘Go Be a Writer’: Intra-activity with materials, time and space in literacy learning
Authors: Kuby Candace R , Rucker Tara Gutshall , Kirchhofer Jessica M
Published: February 2015

This article is based on research in a United States second-grade classroom during a multimodal literacy workshop. Observing students working with tissue paper, foam board, string, pipe cleaners and other materials, we asked how is intra-activity with materials, time and space influencing literacy learning in Room 203? While the research partnership of the authors spanned four years, video and audio recordings, artefacts and interviews with children for this article focus on year two of the research. Poststructural enquiry methods of pedagogical documentation and thinking with theory were used for data production and analysis. Pedagogical documentation focuses not only on the expected ways of being and learning (in this case, the norms of writing in an early childhood classroom) but also on unexpected occurrences (departures from what is typical or developmental) when students write. Thinking with poststructural and posthumanist theories allowed us to explore time, space and materials with three ideas: departures from the expected, the notion of becoming and intra-activity with materials. We illustrate how intra-activity with materials, time and space manifested in two projects: a 3D birdhouse and a 19-foot giraffe mural. We encourage educators to consider how expanded definitions of writing that include intra-actions with a range of materials create learning opportunities for children to live out literacy desiring with multimodal artefacts.
“Okay, I will say in Korean and then in American”: Translanguaging practices in bilingual homes
Authors: Song Kwangok
Published: February 2015

Building on the research on translanguaging practices in classrooms (e.g. García, 2009 ; Sayer, 2011 ) and immigrant families’ literacy practices (e.g. Gregory et al., 2004; Li, 2006 ), this qualitative study explores the nature of translanguaging practices of four Korean bilingual children and their families in home literacy events. Participant observation with video recordings and field notes was used to gather data, and the data analysis focused on the literacy events defined by Heath (1982) and types of language use. The findings demonstrated that bilingual children and their family members used their two languages flexibly and strategically to create and negotiate meaning. Using both languages contributed to clarifying meaning in communication and expanding children’s linguistic repertoires in their heritage language as well as in English. This study takes a particularized look at bilingual children’s language experience in out-of-school contexts by focusing on families’ ways of using their two languages to support their children’s heritage language development in literacy events.
Living with a diagnosis of behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia: The person’s experience
Authors: Griffin Julie , Oyebode Jan R , Allen Joanne
Published: February 2015

Research investigating behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia has concentrated on identifying and quantifying people’s difficulties; yet few studies have considered how people with behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia make sense of their difficulties. Five participants were interviewed and interpretive phenomenological analysis used to analyse the data. Two superordinate themes emerged: ‘Bewilderment’ and ‘Relationships with others’. ‘Bewilderment’ reflected the feelings of the participants from the start of their dementia, and was divided into two main themes (1) ‘Awareness of change: What’s the problem? and (2) Threats to self: This is not me. The superordinate theme, ‘Relationships with others’, reflected difficulties with social relationships and comprised two main themes (1) ‘Family and friends: Things haven’t changed… but do I say anything wrong?’ and (2) Coping with threats to self: Blame others or just avoid them. The themes were discussed in relation to literature evaluating the difficulties associated with behavioural-variant frontotemporal dementia together with implications for clinical practice.
Challenges of environmental problems to the philosophy of education
Authors: Kato Morimichi
Published: February 2015

We live in an age in which the destruction of the environment has become a major concern. However, until recently, environmental problems have not become a major issue for the philosophy of education. The reason for this is that for a very long time the philosophy of education was intimately related to the concept of nature as the foundation and the model of human activity. We can see such an understanding of nature not only among the philosophers of Ancient Greece, but also among the modern pioneers of pedagogy.

If we consider this situation, we may understand the challenge the environmental problem poses to the philosophy of education. Nature in this age of environmental problems cannot function as the foundation upon which an edifice of education can be built. It has become clear that nature is vulnerable to human intervention.

Philosophy of education has responded to this turn of events by not paying attention to the concept of nature. This has sometimes taken an anti-foundational and anti-traditional form that is typical of postmodern thinking. More often though, this omission has occurred by way of shifting the discussion of education exclusively to social and political issues.

In my opinion, this contemporary trend to exclude or ignore a metaphysical or ontological consideration of nature is too narrow. On one hand, it separates us from tradition, in which a consideration of nature played an important role. On the other hand, it excludes us from the experience of the whole that the Greeks called the cosmos. In this paper we will look for a third way of understanding this problem: one that shows due respect for ontology without falling into the error of considering nature as the foundation that serves as an absolute norm. In turn, this requires a balanced understanding of the dethroning of nature in the modern age.
Supplemental Instruction
Authors: Rabitoy Eric R. , Hoffman John L. , Person Dawn R.
Published: February 2015

This study evaluated variables associated with academic preparation and student demographics as predictors of academic achievement through participation in supplemental instruction (SI) programs for community college students in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) fields. The findings suggest a differential impact of SI outcome for students based on gender and ethnicity. Furthermore, the study underscores the importance of evaluating the influence of academic achievement and student demographic variables when considering the development of SI programs on community college campuses.