bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cultural Transmission and Evolution of Melodic Structures in Multi-generational Signaling Games
Authors: Lumaca Massimo , Baggio Giosuè
Published: August 2017

It has been proposed that languages evolve by adapting to the perceptual and cognitive constraints of the human brain, developing, in the course of cultural transmission, structural regularities that maximize or optimize learnability and ease of processing. To what extent would perceptual and cognitive constraints similarly affect the evolution of musical systems? We conducted an experiment on the cultural evolution of artificial melodic systems, using multi-generational signaling games as a laboratory model of cultural transmission. Signaling systems, using five-tone sequences as signals, and basic and compound emotions as meanings, were transmitted from senders to receivers along diffusion chains in which the receiver in each game became the sender in the next game. During transmission, structural regularities accumulated in the signaling systems, following principles of proximity, symmetry, and good continuation. Although the compositionality of signaling systems did not increase significantly across generations, we did observe a significant increase in similarity among signals from the same set. We suggest that our experiment tapped into the cognitive and perceptual constraints operative in the cultural evolution of musical systems, which may differ from the mechanisms at play in language evolution and change.
Crossing the Muddy Field of Witness, Calling the Lonely Crowd: A Walk to Meet a Sound
Authors: McTernan Elizabeth , Wolcott Luke
Published: August 2017

The artist Elizabeth McTernan and the mathematician Luke Wolcott collaborated on A Tree Calls, in which Wolcott chopped down a tree in the United States and McTernan simultaneously led a group in Copenhagen to walk toward the arrival of the sound of the tree falling. How does the sound of this tree falling, and the story of its journey and reception, help us walk into a framed void, alone together? In its faint vibration, how can we hear both the idea’s persistent unity and the silent physical arrival of absence?
Institutional Dynamics of Regulatory Actors in the Recruitment of Migrant Workers
Authors: Karim Moch Faisal
Published: August 2017

This paper examines how institutional dynamics among regulatory institutions affect the governance of the recruitment of Indonesian low-skilled migrant workers. Two institutional reforms have been made to create better governance for Indonesian migrant workers in the post-authoritarian era. One was the establishment of the National Agency for the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (BNP2TKI) while the other was the granting of greater responsibility to sub-national governments to supervise migrant worker recruitment. In spite of these institutional reforms, little progress has been made in the protection of Indonesian migrant workers. The paper reveals that the restrictive regulatory framework for the recruitment of migrant workers, which curbs private recruitment agencies, does not create better migrant worker governance. This regulatory framework does not take into consideration the horizontal relationship between the old and new institutions, and the vertical relationship between the central and sub-national governments. Horizontally, the institutional design of the proposed new regulatory framework has created institutional rivalry between the newly established regulatory actor and the old one. Vertically, the reluctance of central government to decentralise authority to sub-national governments has curtailed the ability of sub-national governments to perform a supervisory role in the recruitment process. These two inter-related factors have hindered the efforts to create a better recruitment process for Indonesian migrant workers.
The Minimum Living Standard Guarantee System and Citizenship Cultivation among the Poor in China
Authors: Zhang Haomiao
Published: August 2017

China’s Minimum Living Standard Guarantee System (MLSGS) provides an unconditional cash transfer to poor households to alleviate poverty. During China’s transitional period, the MLSGS has played an important role in the maintenance of social stability. However, beyond poverty alleviation and stability maintenance, other outcomes—particularly the strengthening of citizenship—have received little attention. This study explores the influence of the MLSGS on the perceptions of citizenship among aid recipients, and finds not only that the MLSGS has gradually promoted the social rights of the poor and strengthened state-citizen interactions, but also finds issues and challenges that may limit Chinese citizens’ ability to fully exercise their new rights.
Two new Tylopilus species (Boletaceae) from Northeastern Atlantic Forest, Brazil
Authors: MAGNAGO ALTIELYS CASALE , RECK MATEUS ARDUVINO , DENTINGER BRYN T. M. , MONCALVO JEAN-MARC , NEVES MARIA ALICE , SILVEIRA ROSA MARA BORGES DA
Published: August 2017

The Atlantic Forest of Brazil harbors a great diversity of boletoid fungi, many of which remain to be documented and described. Two distinct taxa of Tylopilus from Northeastern Atlantic Forest, T. dunensis and T. pygmaeus, are proposed as new based on evidence from both morphological and molecular data. We provide detailed macro- and microscopic descriptions of each species including scanning electron micrographs of the basidiospores.
Paepalanthus modestus (Eriocaulaceae), a new dimerous species from Goiás, Brazil, with notes on leaf and scape anatomy
Authors: TROVÓ MARCELO , SILVA ARTHUR DE LIMA , COAN ALESSANDRA IKE
Published: August 2017

Paepalanthus modestus, a new species of Eriocaulaceae with dimerous flowers, is described and illustrated. The species is placed in P. [unranked] Dimeri based on floral and vegetative characters. A detailed comparison with P. harleyi and P. oxyphyllus is given. The hemispherical mature capitula, the relatively short involucral bracts slightly surpassing the floral disc, and the vestiture of leaves, scapes, and floral parts distinguish P. modestus. Large populations of the species occur on rocky soils in the municipalities of Alto Paraíso de Goiás and Teresina de Goiás, Brazil. Some of these populations were found in Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, and the species is considered endangered according to the IUCN criteria. Anatomical details of leaves and scapes, along with photos and comments on etymology, morphological variation, and ecological aspects related to fire tolerance are provided.
Oberonia bopannae (Orchidaceae: Epidendroideae: Malaxideae: Malaxidinae), a new species from Arunachal Pradesh (India)
Authors: CHOWLU KRISHNA , MALIK SALONI , KUMAR PANKAJ , BABBAR S. B.
Published: August 2017

Oberonia bopannae is described as a new species from Arunachal Pradesh, India and is compared with its allied species, Oberonia gammiei and Oberonia mucronata. Detailed analysis of DNA barcodes, based on ITS and matK, distinguished newly described species from its allied species and also from other species of Oberonia, sequences of which are available on GenBank.
A new species of Macrocentrus (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) parasitizing larva of Dioryctria pryeri (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
Authors: SONG LI-WEN , CAO LIANG-MING , LI XING-PENG , YANG ZHONG-QI , CHEN YUE-QU
Published: August 2017

Macrocentrus pryeri Yang, Song & Cao, sp. nov. (Hymenoptera: Braconidae), a gregarious larval endo-parasitoid of Dioryctria pryeri Ragonot (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is described and illustrated. The hosts is serious pest of the cone, seed and shoot of Pinus koraiensis Sieb. et Zucc., a dominant forest tree species in northeastern China. The parasitoid has potential as a biocontrol agent for the pest as an average parasitism rate of 27.5% has been observed (Maximum 40%), and, on average, 40.4 parasitoid adults (range 29–48) emerge from a single host with female:male ratio of 1.9:1 (Maximum 2.8:1). Detailed photographs of the key characters of the female and male of the new species are provided.
Dinoxyleborus Smith, a new genus of Neotropical xyleborine ambrosia beetle (Coleoptera, Curculionidae: Scolytinae)
Authors: SMITH SARAH M.
Published: August 2017

An ongoing review of Neotropical Xyleborini (Coleoptera, Curculionidae, Scolytinae) has revealed a new genus, Dinoxyleborus gen. nov. (type species Dinoxyleborus cognatoi sp. nov.), from South America. Two new species are described and one new combination is proposed: Dinoxyleborus cognatoi, sp. nov., D. infernus sp. nov., and D. sexnotatus (Schedl), 1970. A modification of Wood’s 2007 key to Neotropical Xyleborini genera and a key to Dinoxyleborus species are given.
Scale Characterization and Correction of Diurnal Cycle Errors in MAPLE
Authors: Atencia Aitor , Zawadzki Isztar , Berenguer Marc
Published: August 2017

The most widely used technique for nowcasting of quantitative precipitation in operational and research centers is the Lagrangian extrapolation of the latest radar observations. However, this technique has a limited forecast skill because of the assumption made on its formulation, such as the fact that the motion vectors do not change and, even more important for convective events, neglect any growth or decay in the precipitation field. In this work, the McGill Algorithm for Precipitation Nowcasting by Lagrangian Extrapolation (MAPLE) errors have been computed for 10 yr of radar composite data over the continental United States. The study of these errors shows systematic bias depending on the time of day. This effect is related to the solar cycle, whose heating energy results in an increase in the average rainfall in the afternoon. This external forcing interacts with the atmospheric system, creating local initiation and dissipation of convection depending on orography, land use, cloud coverage, etc. The signal of the diurnal cycle in MAPLE precipitation forecast has been studied in different locations and spatial scales as a function of lead time in order to recognize where, when, and for which spatial scales the signal is significant. This information has been used in the development of a scaling correction scheme where the mean errors due to the diurnal cycle are adjusted. The results show that the developed methodology improves the forecast for the spatial scales and locations where the diurnal cycle signal is significant.
Satellite- and Reanalysis-Based Mass Balance Estimates of Global Continental Discharge (1993–2015)
Authors: Chandanpurkar Hrishikesh A. , Reager John T. , Famiglietti James S. , Syed Tajdarul H.
Published: August 2017

Total continental freshwater discharge into the oceans is a key feature of the global water cycle, but it is currently impossible to observe using ground-based methods alone. To characterize the uncertainty across existing modeling and satellite approaches, the authors present ensembles of historic monthly global continental discharge estimates that enforce water mass balance over land and ocean. The authors combine independent measurements of ocean–landmass change from altimetry and GRACE with multiple estimates of evaporation minus precipitation ( E − P) from remote sensing and reanalysis data to compute 28 time series of global discharge. Results reveal agreement in mass budget across approaches but a large spread in global E − P estimates that propagates into the discharge estimates. It is found that discharges with reanalysis-based E − P provide a closer comparison with current observation-based estimates. After combining GRACE- and altimetry-based mass change estimates with moisture convergences from reanalysis, the total annual mean continental discharge into the oceans is 38 550 ± 4800 km3 yr−1. Last, the authors provide continent-wise discharge estimates from GRACE and moisture convergences over land, compare them to other studies, and discuss implications for ocean modeling.
A Study on the Influences of Low-Frequency Vorticity on Tropical Cyclone Formation in the Western North Pacific
Authors: Hsieh Yi-Huan , Lee Cheng-Shang , Sui Chung-Hsiung
Published: August 2017

The WRF Model is used to simulate 52 tropical cyclones (TCs) that formed in the western North Pacific during 2008–09 to study the influence of the low-frequency mode of environmental vorticity on TC formation [ Vmax ~ 25 kt (~13 m s−1)]. All simulations, using the same model setting, are repeated at four distinct initial times and with two different initial datasets. These TCs are classified into two groups based on the environmental 850-hPa low-frequency vorticity (using a 10-day low-pass filter) during the period 24–48 h prior to TC formation. Results show that the WRF Model is more capable of simulating the TC formation process, but with larger track errors for TCs formed in an environment with higher low-frequency vorticity (HTC). In contrast, the model is less capable of simulating the TC formation process for TCs formed in an environment with lower low-frequency vorticity (LTC), but with smaller track errors. Fourteen selected TCs are further simulated to examine the sensitivity of previous results to different cumulus parameterization schemes. Results show that the capability of the WRF Model to simulate HTC formation is not sensitive to the choice of cumulus scheme. However, for an LTC, the simulated convection pattern is very sensitive to the cumulus scheme used; therefore, model simulation capability for LTC depends on the cumulus scheme used. Results of this study reveal that the convection process is not a dominant factor in HTC formation, but is very important for LTC formation.
‘Do you know where I can buy ivory?’: The illegal sale of worked ivory products in Hong Kong
Authors: Wong Rebecca WY
Published: August 2017

Set against the theoretical framework of situational crime prevention theory, this paper analyses the illegal sale of worked ivory products in Hong Kong, which is the city with the highest number of worked ivory products for retail sale in the world. Based on qualitative interviews and open sources, this paper shows that legalising the sale of products made from mammoth tusk and pre-1989 ivory, the low risk of detection, high rewards, justifications made by offenders, and unique situational conditions have collectively (and indirectly) created opportunities for traders to sell worked ivory items illegally in Hong Kong. This paper concludes by offering a discussion on why the illegal sale of ivory products cannot be prevented with situational crime prevention preventive strategies in the long run.
Coding military command as a promiscuous practice? Unsettling the gender binaries of leadership metaphors
Authors: Ashcraft Karen Lee , Muhr Sara Louise
Published: August 2017

Despite abundant scholarship addressed to gender equity in leadership, much leadership literature remains invested in gender binaries. Metaphors of leadership are especially dependent on gender oppositions, and this article treats the scholarly practice of coding leadership through gendered metaphor as a consequential practice of leadership unto itself. Drawing on queer theory, the article develops a mode of analysis, called ‘promiscuous coding’, conducive to disrupting the gender divisions that currently anchor most leadership metaphors. Promiscuous coding can assist leadership scholars by translating the vague promise of queering leadership into a tangible method distinguished by specific habits. The article formulates this analytical practice out of empirical provocations encountered by the authors: namely, a striking mismatch between their experiences in military fields and the dominant metaphor of leading as military command. Ultimately, the article seeks to move scholarly practices of leadership toward queer performativity, in the hopes of loosening other leadership practices from a binary grip and pointing toward new relational possibilities.
Introducing the AMAR (All Minorities at Risk) Data
Authors: Birnir Jóhanna K. , Laitin David D. , Wilkenfeld Jonathan , Waguespack David M. , Hultquist Agatha S. , Gurr Ted R.
Published: August 2017

The article introduces the All Minorities at Risk (AMAR) data, a sample of socially recognized and salient ethnic groups. Fully coded for the forty core Minorities at Risk variables, this AMAR sample provides researchers with data for empirical analysis free from the selection issues known in the study of ethnic politics to date. We describe the distinct selection issues motivating the coding of the data with an emphasis on underexplored selection issues arising with truncation of ethnic group data, especially when moving between levels of data. We then describe our sampling technique and the resulting coded data. Next, we suggest some directions for the future study of ethnicity and conflict using our bias-corrected data. Our preliminary correlations suggest selection bias may have distorted our understanding about both group and country correlates of ethnic violence.
Social Mobility and Political Instability
Authors: Houle Christian
Published: August 2017

Does social mobility foster political stability? While there is a vibrant literature on the effect of economic inequality on political unrest, the recent literature has remained silent about the effect of social mobility on instability. Yet, inequality and social mobility, although related, are fundamentally distinct, and immobility is likely to be perceived as even more unfair than inequality, meaning that it may generate at least as much grievances. In this article, I argue that social immobility fuels political instability. To test this hypothesis, I develop an indicator of social mobility covering more than 100 countries worldwide. I then conduct the first large- N cross-national test of the effect of social mobility on political instability to date. Consistent with my argument, I find that countries with low social mobility levels are more likely to experience riots, general strikes, antigovernment demonstrations, political assassinations, guerillas, revolutions, and civil wars.
Adult Child Migration and Elderly Multidimensional Well-Being: Comparative Analysis Between Moldova and Georgia
Authors: Vanore Michaella , Siegel Melissa , Gassmann Franziska , Waidler Jennifer
Published: August 2017

Despite growing concern over the potential consequences of migration for the “left behind,” few systematic attempts have been made to document the relationship between the migration of an adult child and the well-being of his or her elderly parent(s) remaining in the country of origin. This article proposes a multidimensional elderly well-being index that enables the identification and comparison of outcomes between elderly individuals with and without adult migrant children in Moldova and Georgia, two former Soviet states that are both experiencing demographic and mobility transitions. The outcomes of elderly individuals with and without children living abroad are compared to illustrate in what domains child absence through migration corresponds to differing well-being outcomes. The findings suggest that the migration of an adult child is not as significant a factor in shaping well-being outcomes as would be expected based on past literature; other factors may play much stronger roles in shaping of well-being.
Widening the gap: Support gaps in same race versus different race female friendship dyads
Authors: Davis Shardé M. , High Andrew C.
Published: August 2017

Women frequently turn to other women for support to cope with stressors. The support they receive, however, is often not what they need or even expect from a friend. Based upon differences in racial backgrounds, this study tests whether the racial composition of female friendship dyads influences the experience of support gaps, or discrepancies among the types and amount of support women need, expect, and receive, as well as the outcomes associated with those gaps. Black and White women ( N = 312) recalled a supportive conversation with either a Black or White female friend about an identity-threatening stressor. The results show that women needed, expected, and received more of several types of support from friends of their same race and that several support gaps were more pronounced from friends of a different race. The racial composition of a dyad moderated the influence of support gaps on women’s perceptions of supportiveness, reappraisal, and affect improvement.
Treatment of knee osteoarthritis: platelet-derived growth factors vs. hyaluronic acid. A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lisi Claudio , Perotti Cesare , Scudeller Luigia , Sammarchi Luigi , Dametti Francesca , Musella Valeria , Di Natali Giuseppe
Published: August 2017

Objective:

Aim of this trial was to compare efficacy of activated platelet-rich plasma against hyaluronic acid as intra-articular injections to people with osteoarthritis of the knee.

Design:

Phase-2 randomized controlled trial, with blind patients and outcome assessors.

Setting:

Outpatient rehabilitation service; years 2011–2013.

Subjects:

Patients with knee osteoarthritis grades 2–3 at magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were included after consent and randomized. Target sample size was 25 patients per group.

Interventions:

Patients received three activated platelet-rich plasma (intervention group) or hyaluronic acid (controls) intra-articular injections at 4-week intervals.

Main measures:

Main outcome measure was proportion of patients with >1 grade improvement at six months from last injection, as assessed by a radiologist blind to study group. Patients were evaluated over time clinically and with functional scales (Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Lysholm, Tegner, American Knee Society Score (AKSS), Lequesne, visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain).

Results:

Overall, 30 patients were randomized to intervention and 28 to control group. For primary outcome, 28 patients (29 knees) in the intervention and 22 (25 knees) in the control group were available. Patients with at least 1 grade improvement at repeat MRI were 14 (48.3%) in the intervention and 2 (8%) in the control group ( P < 0.003). Improvement in symptoms and functional scales was consistently higher in the intervention group. No side-effects were observed in either group.

Conclusion:

Activated platelet-rich plasma reduces articular damage as evident at MRI, as soon as six months after treatment; it reduces pain and improves patient’s function and overall quality of life.
Silence as an element of care: A meta-ethnographic review of professional caregivers’ experience in clinical and pastoral settings
Authors: Bassett Lynn , Bingley Amanda F , Brearley Sarah G
Published: August 2017

Background:

In interactions between professional caregivers, patients and family members at the end of life, silence often becomes more prevalent. Silence is acknowledged as integral to interpersonal communication and compassionate care but is also noted as a complex and ambiguous phenomenon. This review seeks interdisciplinary experience to deepen understanding of qualities of silence as an element of care.

Aim:

To search for published papers which describe professional caregivers’ experience of silence as an element of care, in palliative and other clinical, spiritual and pastoral care settings and to synthesise their findings.

Design:

Meta-ethnography: employing a systematic search strategy and line-of-argument synthesis.

Data sources:

PsycINFO and seven other cross-disciplinary databases, supplemented by hand-search, review of reference lists and citation tracking. No date range was imposed. Inclusion criteria focused on reported experience of silence in professional caregiving. Selected papers ( n = 18) were appraised; none were rejected on grounds of quality.

Results:

International, interdisciplinary research and opinion endorses the value of silence in clinical care. As a multi-functional element of interpersonal relationships, silence operates in partnership with speech to support therapeutic communication. As a caregiving practice, silence is perceived as particularly relevant in spiritual and existential dimensions of care when words may fail.

Conclusion:

Experience of silence as an element of care was found in palliative and spiritual care, psychotherapy and counselling supporting existing recognition of the value of silence as a skill and practice. Because silence can present challenges for caregivers, greater understanding may offer benefits for clinical practice.
CT follow-up in patients with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs): combined radiation and contrast dose reduction
Authors: Böning G , Kahn JF , Kaul D , Rotzinger R , Freyhardt P , Pavel M , Streitparth F
Published: August 2017

Background

Frequent computed tomography (CT) follow-ups involve significant radiation related risks for patients with low-grade neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). Contrast agent (CA) application is essential for diagnostic evidence and has additional risks especially in patients with limited renal function.

Purpose

To investigate if a combination of dose and contrast agent (CA) reduction affects image quality and diagnostic evidence in neuroendocrine tumor (NET) patients.

Material and Methods

A total of 51 NET patients were enrolled in the study and 153 CT scans were analyzed. Patients underwent a baseline CT scan (A = 120 kVp, filtered back projection [FBP]) and two follow-up CTs (B = 120 kVp, adaptive statistical iterative reconstruction [ASIR] 40%; C1 = 100 kVp, ASIR 40%; C2 = 100 kVp, ASIR 60%; the latter two protocols were applied with a 30% reduction in CA volume). We evaluated image quality and applied dose.

Results

In C1/2, the combination of low kV (100 kVp) with ASIR 40%/60% reduced the mean applied dose significantly by 28% compared to B and by 57% compared to A. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratios (CNR) of tumor to liver/muscle were significantly increased by using C1/2 compared to B and A. With respect to subjective image quality, a slight loss of diagnostic confidence in C1 could be counterbalanced by the higher ASIR blending in C2.

Conclusion

Combined dose reduction techniques can be used to reduce radiation dose and CA volume without sacrificing image quality and diagnostic confidence in staging CT of NET patients.
Transitions From Acute Care to Long-Term Care: Evaluation of the Continued Access Model
Authors: Meehan Rebecca
Published: August 2017

Improving communication during transitions from acute care hospitals into long-term post-acute care (LTPAC) settings is imperative for clinical staff to have the information they need to admit and care for the patient with accurate medical information provided in an efficient way. The research goals of this study are to examine the user experience of a new data sharing method, “Continued Access,” a supplement to the standard summary of care, and to evaluate staff attitudes of the model on LTPAC residents’ care. Clinical staff ( n = 20) from a U.S. Midwestern LTPAC setting were interviewed to give their evaluation of the new model of data access, their concerns, and ways to improve the effectiveness of the model. Respondents reported better opportunities for quality care based on improved insight and clarity around patients’ medical history, medications, and tests. Strategies for integrating Continued Access into the workflow and improving quality outcomes are discussed.
The Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Delinquency Across Urban and Rural Contexts
Authors: Connolly Eric J. , Lewis Richard H. , Boisvert Danielle L.
Published: August 2017

An extensive line of research has demonstrated that low socioeconomic status (SES) is a risk factor for adolescent delinquent behavior. The possibility that low SES affects adolescent’s risk for engaging in delinquent behavior has garnered a significant amount of empirical and public attention, given its implications for delinquency prevention. However, few studies have examined the association between low SES and delinquent behavior across urban and rural contexts in the United States. Moreover, much is unknown about the strength of the association between low SES and delinquency across urban and rural context after controlling for common genetic liabilities that often cluster within different levels of SES. The present study aimed to address these existing gaps in the literature by conducting a genetically informed analysis of sibling pairs from a nationally representative sample of U.S. youth. The results revealed that shared environmental factors accounted for 17% of the population variation in adolescent delinquent behavior among adolescents growing up in urban contexts, and 3% of this family-wide environmental effect was accounted for by SES. No evidence of a family-wide environmental effect on population variation in delinquent behavior was found among adolescents from rural contexts. Findings from the present study suggest that the association between low SES and delinquency in urban contexts in the United States may be a true environmental effect and highlight the utility of using genetically informed research designs to better understand the extent to which social contexts influence adolescent delinquent behavior.
Sampling method for the determination of methane emissions from landfill surfaces
Authors: Lucernoni Federico , Rizzotto Matteo , Capelli Laura , Busini Valentina , Del Rosso Renato , Sironi Selena
Published: August 2017

The first aim of this work is the definition and the study of a suitable sampling method for the measurement of landfill gas (LFG) emissions from landfill surfaces, since, up to now, there are no codified nor universally accepted sampling methods for this specific task. The studied sampling method is based on the use of a static hood. The research work involves a preliminary theoretical study for the hood design, experimental tests for the definition of the optimal sampling procedures, and simulations of the hood fluid-dynamics for the system validation. The second aim of this study is the investigation of the correlations between LFG emissions and meteorological conditions, whose identification would be very useful in terms of effective landfill management and pollution control. This involved a wide literature study for the selection of those parameters that seem to have an influence on LFG emission, and the collection of a great number of experimental data on a target site, which led to the conclusion that atmospheric pressure and soil humidity are the parameters that mostly affect LFG emissions.
Vegetation dynamics within the savanna biome in southern Mozambique during the late Holocene
Authors: Norström Elin , Öberg Helena , Sitoe Sandra R , Ekblom Anneli , Westerberg Lars-Ove , Risberg Jan
Published: August 2017

This study explores temporal dynamics within grassland and Miombo woodland ecosystems in southern Mozambique and their potential coupling to hydro-climate change during the late-Holocene period. Palaeo-reconstructions are based on phytolith and diatom assemblages and mineral magnetic properties in fossil sediments from Lake Chilau, southern Mozambique. Phytolith interpretation was aided by previous ecological studies on modern plants and soils. The Lake Chilau record suggests high abundance of Panicoideae and other mesophytic grasses during the AD 1200s and 1300s, followed by an increase in Chloridoideae and grasses of more xerophytic affinity between ca. AD 1400 and 1550. This vegetation transition takes place during the early phase of the so-called ‘Little Ice Age’ (LIA), when regional palaeoclimate records report a shift from warmer and wetter towards drier and cooler conditions in southern Africa. Concurrent to these shifts within the grassland biome, the Chilau record reports an increase in phytoliths associated with arboreal vegetation (ca. AD 1400–1550), probably associated with the woody component of the Miombo savanna ecosystem. This supports previous studies hypothesizing that the forest component of the Miombo savanna was favoured by LIA dryness, although at Chilau, this expansion may have been amplified by a decline in fire disturbance. These tentative responses in the woody components of the savanna biome to shifts in moisture availability in the past have implications for future management and sustainability of the Miombo ecosystem in southern Mozambique under a changing climate.
The language of A Clockwork Orange: A corpus stylistic approach to Nadsat
Authors: Vincent Benet , Clarke Jim
Published: August 2017

The 1962 dystopian novella A Clockwork Orange achieved global cultural resonance when it was adapted for the cinema by Stanley Kubrick in 1971. However, its author Anthony Burgess insisted that the novel’s innovative element was the introduction of ‘Nadsat’, an art language he created for his protagonist Alex and his violent gang of droogs. This constructed anti-language has achieved a cultural currency and become the subject of considerable academic attention over a 50-year period, but to date no study has attempted a systematic analysis of its resources and distribution. Rather, a number of studies have attempted to investigate the effects of Nadsat, especially in terms of the author’s claim that learning it functioned as a form of ‘brainwashing’ embedded within the text.

This paper uses corpus methods to help isolate, quantify and categorise the distinctive lexicogrammatical features of this art language and investigate how Burgess introduces a new, mainly Russian-based lexicon to readers. In doing so, it clarifies the existing confusion over what Nadsat is, and also provides a roadmap for future studies into the construction, function and translatability of the created linguistic component of the novel.
Book Review: Leopold Scholtz, The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale: Cold War Angolan Finale
Authors: Solomon Hussein
Published: August 2017

Leopold Scholtz, The Battle of Cuito Cuanavale: Cold War Angolan Finale, 1987–1988, Helion and Co., London, 2016, 64 pp., US $13, ISBN 9781909384620.
Negotiating labour standards in the gig economy: Airtasker and Unions New South Wales
Authors: Minter Kate
Published: August 2017

The ‘gig economy’ uses digital platforms to bypass many of the regular responsibilities and costs of employment. Ambiguity as to whether gig-economy workers are independent contractors, dependent contractors or employees allows the undermining of traditional labour standards governing minimum wages and other legislated employment conditions. Labour law and institutions need to catch up to the new reality of this form of work and develop new tools to protect and enhance minimum standards for workers in digital platform businesses. Unions, business and government all have a role to play in the long term. Meanwhile, direct engagement between these new firms and workers’ advocates can also help to mitigate the risks posed to labour standards by digital business models, by addressing regulatory gaps. This article is a case study of innovative negotiations between one platform business (Airtasker) and Unions New South Wales, a peak trade unions body in New South Wales, Australia, in order to establish agreed minimum standards for engagements negotiated through this platform.
Facilitators and Barriers to Self-Management for Adolescents and Young Adults Following a Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant
Authors: Morrison Caroline F. , Pai Ahna L. H. , Martsolf Donna
Published: August 2017

Adolescents and young adults who experience hematopoietic stem cell transplant are at risk for self-management difficulties based on development, psychological comorbidities, and the complexity of the care regimen. Recommendations for practice change were designed to address facilitators and barriers to self-management for adolescents and young adults following hematopoietic stem cell transplant. As part of a grounded theory research study, 30 participants (17 adolescents and young adults and 13 of their caregivers) were individually interviewed and asked about facilitators and barriers to managing care and advice for health care providers. Participant responses were coded into categories, which were named with terms used by the participants. The number of participants who provided data per category was recorded. Self-management is generally characterized only in the ability to follow a prescribed care regimen. Participants indicated mental and emotional experiences as a result of treatment were indistinguishable from self-management activities. Facilitators included having a positive attitude, social support, organization, motivation, and information. Barriers included physical and psychological symptoms, isolation, difficulties with the medication regimen, single parenting, and having a bad attitude. Advice for health care providers included communicating effectively, treating patients holistically, and providing social support.
Higher Ant Diversity in Native Vegetation Than in Stands of the Invasive Arundo, Arundo donax L., Along the Rio Grande Basin in Texas, USA
Authors: Osbrink Weste LA , Goolsby John A , Thomas Don B , Mejorado Alba , Showler Allan T , Pérez De León Adalberto
Published: August 2017

Our hypothesis was that there will be greater ant biodiversity in heterogeneous native vegetation compared with Arundo stands. Changes in ant biodiversity due to Arundo invasion may be one of the ecological changes in the landscape that facilitates the invasion of cattle fever ticks from Mexico where they are endemic. Ants collected in pitfall traps were identified and compared between native vegetation and stands of Arundo, Arundo donax L., monthly for a year at 10 locations. A total of 82 752 ants representing 28 genera and 76 species were collected. More ants were collected in the native vegetation which also had greater species richness and biological diversity than ants collected from Arundo stands. It is suggested that the greater heterogeneous nature of native vegetation provided greater and more predictable nourishment in the form of nectars and more abundant arthropod prey when compared with Arundo stands.
Is Outpatient Thyroid Surgery for Everyone?
Authors: Butler Dale , Oltmann Sarah
Published: August 2017

Thyroidectomy is a common surgical procedure. Traditionally, surgeons have performed thyroidectomy on an inpatient basis. However, consistent with current trends in surgery, some practices are transitioning thyroidectomy to an outpatient setting. Although concerns for hypocalcemia and postoperative bleeding exist regardless of surgeon experience, multiple studies demonstrate that outpatient thyroidectomy is safe in the hands of high-volume surgeons. Indeed, experienced thyroid surgeons who perform thyroidectomy in an outpatient setting experience excellent patient outcomes and reduced costs. However, outpatient thyroidectomy may not be suitable for all surgeons, hospitals, or patients. When evaluating whether to implement an outpatient thyroid program, a practice should consider a number of important factors including the team performing the procedure, the hospital, and the patient. With the appropriate staff education and experience, hospital setting, and patient selection, practices in a multitude of settings can successfully develop a safe, cost-effective outpatient thyroid program.
Trend Pie
Authors: Adams Pamela , Ricci Victor
Published: August 2017

Trend Pie LLC is a fast growing digital influence-marketing company started by a college student who recognized an opportunity to leverage his following on social media to create a business. It is an exciting case for students both because it is a real story and because it concerns a student who established a million dollar company from his dorm room. The case follows the start-up and growth of the venture, discussing how the founder developed a successful business model and overcame his first challenges. The case ends with a dilemma about what the founder should do with the business once he graduated from the university.
Telehealth pulmonary rehabilitation: A review of the literature and an example of a nationwide initiative to improve the accessibility of pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Selzler A-M , Wald J , Sedeno M , Jourdain T , Janaudis-Ferreira T , Goldstein R , Bourbeau J , Stickland MK
Published: August 2017

Several different applications of telehealth technologies have been used in the care of respiratory patients, including telemonitoring, teleconsultations, tele-education, and telehealth-pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). Telehealth technology provides an opportunity to assist in the management of chronic respiratory diseases and improve access to PR programs. While there is inconclusive evidence as to the effectiveness of telemonitoring to reduce healthcare utilization and detection of exacerbations, teleconsultations have been shown to be an effective means to assess patients’ disease prior to the initiation of PR, and telehealth PR has been shown to be as effective as institution-based PR at improving functional exercise capacity and health-related quality of life. To improve PR access across Canada and ensure a high standard of program quality, a team of clinicians and researchers has developed and begun to implement a national standardized PR program that can be delivered across different settings of practice, including remote satellite sites via telehealth PR. The program has adapted the “Living Well with COPD” self-management program and includes standardized reference guides and resources for patients and practitioners. A progressive and iterative process will evaluate the success of program implementation and outcomes. This initiative will address nationwide accessibility challenges and provide PR content as well as evaluations that are in accordance with clinical standards and established self-management practices.
National Policies, Agendas, and Polarization in American State Legislatures: 2011 to 2014
Authors: Garlick Alex
Published: August 2017

Why are some states polarized and others not? This article argues that state legislators are provided with more information by lobbyists and the media about national policies, or state-level bills that are prominent in the national political discourse. Compared with state-specific issues, this additional information encourages legislators to vote along party lines to secure reelection or prepare for a run for higher office. It identifies national policies using lobbying registrations in state legislatures and Congress to show there is more party difference on roll-call votes on national policies in 25 states over 2011 to 2014. It also argues that the notoriety of national issues may encourage party leaders to put these bills on the agenda to build their party brand, or for individual legislators to raise their profiles. It finds that states with more national agendas have more polarized sessions.
Neuroplastic Changes Induced by Cognitive Rehabilitation in Traumatic Brain Injury: A Review
Authors: Galetto Valentina , Sacco Katiuscia
Published: August 2017

Background. Cognitive deficits are among the most disabling consequences of traumatic brain injury (TBI), leading to long-term outcomes and interfering with the individual’s recovery. One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of cognitive disturbance in everyday life is cognitive rehabilitation, which is based on the principles of brain neuroplasticity and restoration. Although there are many studies in the literature focusing on the effectiveness of cognitive interventions in reducing cognitive deficits following TBI, only a few of them focus on neural modifications induced by cognitive treatment. The use of neuroimaging or neurophysiological measures to evaluate brain changes induced by cognitive rehabilitation may have relevant clinical implications, since they could add individualized elements to cognitive assessment. Nevertheless, there are no review studies in the literature investigating neuroplastic changes induced by cognitive training in TBI individuals. Objective. Due to lack of data, the goal of this article is to review what is currently known on the cerebral modifications following rehabilitation programs in chronic TBI. Methods. Studies investigating both the functional and structural neural modifications induced by cognitive training in TBI subjects were identified from the results of database searches. Forty-five published articles were initially selected. Of these, 34 were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Results. Eleven studies were found that focused solely on the functional and neurophysiological changes induced by cognitive rehabilitation. Conclusions. Outcomes showed that cerebral activation may be significantly modified by cognitive rehabilitation, in spite of the severity of the injury.
Ten Meters Walking Speed in Spinal Cord–Injured Patients: Does Speed Predict Who Walks and Who Rolls?
Authors: van Silfhout Lysanne , Hosman Allard J. F. , Bartels Ronald H. M. A. , Edwards Michael J. R. , Abel Rainer , Curt Armin , van de Meent Henk
Published: August 2017

Background. Walking speed is assumed to be a key factor in regaining ambulation after spinal cord injury (SCI). However, from the literature it remains unclear which walking speed usually results in independent community ambulation. Objective. The primary aim of this study was to determine at which walking speed SCI patients tend to walk in the community instead of using a wheelchair. The secondary aim was to investigate clinical conditions that favor independent ambulation in the community. Methods. Data from SCI patients were collected retrospectively from the European Multicenter Study about Spinal Cord Injury database. We determined a cutoff walking speed at which the patients tend to walk in the community by plotting a receiver operating characteristics curve, using the Spinal Cord Independence Measure for outdoor mobility. Univariate analyses investigated which factors influence independent community ambulation. Results. A walking speed of 0.59 m/s is the cutoff between patients who do and do not ambulate independently in the community, with a sensitivity of 91.6% and a specificity of 80.3%. Age, injury severity, and lower limb muscle strength have a significant influence on independent community ambulation. Conclusions. Patients with an SCI who regain a walking speed of 0.59 m/s tend to achieve a level of walking effectiveness that allows for independent community walking. Although such patients tend to be younger and less severely injured, this walking speed can be a target for locomotor training in rehabilitation and clinical trials that lead to a meaningful outcome level of community walking.
Putting movement and performance outcome using standard, belly and long putters
Authors: Sherwin Ian A , Kenny Ian C
Published: August 2017

In golf, play on the green has a large impact on final score and a great amount of time is spent on coaching and practice greens to improve putting performance. The study purpose was to measure putting outcome performance when different length putters were used with an anchoring mechanism. Seventy-two skilled golfers each executed a total of 60 putts using standard, belly and long putters from two distances. Putting mechanics were assessed using SAM PuttLab™. From 1.83 m (6 ft) participants holed 80.3% of putts with a standard length putter, dropping to 78.6 and 75.3% for belly and long-handled putters. At 3.66 m (12 ft) participants holed 51.7% of putts with a standard length putter, and 50.8 and 46.9% for belly and long-handled putters. Shot performance showed no significant differences between or within clubs. There were significant (p < 0.05) but small effect size between-club differences for swing time, putter head rotation and putter face impact spot. Results show that while anchoring may reduce putter head rotation it does not prevent rotation. It has been ascertained for a large cohort of different handicap golfers not accustomed to using longer putters that using an anchored putter will not necessarily provide a scoring advantage over using a standard putter without an anchoring system. Practice may better focus on the individual golfer’s specific technical weaknesses identified by the performer or by a coach.