The effect of hyperbranched poly(acrylic acid)s on the morphology and size of precipitated nanoscale (fluor)hydroxyapatite

Hydroxyapatite and fluorhydroxyapatite (F)HA nanoparticles were synthesised in the presence of branched poly(acrylic acid)s (PAA) synthesised via reversible addition-fragmentation chain transfer polymerisation and compared to those synthesised in the presence of linear PAA. Analysis of the resulting nanoparticles using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction and transition electron microscopy found that polymer was included within the nanoparticle samples and affected their morphology with nanoparticles synthesised in the presence of branched PAA being more acicular and smaller overall

Designing storytelling technologies to encourage collaboration between young children

We describe the design of tangible interfaces to the KidPad collaborative drawing tool. Our aims are to support the reenactment of stories to audiences, and integration within real classroom environments. A six-month iterative design process, working with children and teachers in school, has produced the "magic carpet", an interface that uses pressure mats and video-tracked and barcoded physical props to navigate a story in KidPad. Reflecting on this process, we propose four guidelines for the design of tangible interfaces for the classroom. (1) Use physical size and physical props to encourage collaboration. (2) Be aware of how different interfaces emphasize different actions. (3) Be aware that superficial changes to the design can produce very different physical interactions. (4) Focus on open low-tech technologies rather than (over) polished products

Material culture in action: conserving garments deliberately concealed within buildings

The study of material culture encompasses the material and the symbolic properties\ud of things. Approaches based on an understanding of material culture can help with the\ud conservation of textiles because they encourage considerations regarding changes in their\ud properties, both material and symbolic, over time. Examples of textile conservation illustrate\ud material culture in action to the extent that they analyze the challenges posed by garments\ud deliberately concealed within buildings to conservation. The significance attributed to such\ud textiles varies: some are valued as rare samples of clothing; others are appreciated for their\ud protective function; while others are viewed as rubbish. The conservation strategies are indicated\ud by the significance attributed to these textiles