bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatial and temporal variations of aridity shape dung beetle assemblages towards the Sahara desert
Authors: deCastro-Arrazola Indradatta , Hortal Joaquín , Moretti Marco , Sánchez-Piñero Francisco
Published: September 2018

Background

Assemblage responses to environmental gradients are key to understand the general principles behind the assembly and functioning of communities. The spatially and temporally uneven distribution of water availability in drylands creates strong aridity gradients. While the effects of spatial variations of aridity are relatively well known, the influence of the highly-unpredictable seasonal and inter-annual precipitations on dryland communities has been seldom addressed.

Aims

Here, we study the seasonal and inter-annual responses of dung beetle (Coleoptera, Scarabaeidae) communities to the variations of water availability along a semiarid region of the Mediterranean.

Methods

We surveyed a 400 km linear transect along a strong aridity gradient from the Mediterranean coast to the Sahara (Eastern Morocco), during four sampling campaigns: two in the wet season and two in the dry season. We measured species richness, abundance and evenness. Variations in community composition between sites, seasons and years were assessed through beta diversity partitioning of dissimiliarity metrics based on species occurrences and abundances. The effects of climate, soil, vegetation and dung availability were evaluated using Spearman-rank correlations, general linear regressions and partial least-squares generalized linear regressions for community structure, and non-metric multi-dimensional scaling, Permutational Analysis of Variance (PERMANOVA) and distance-based RDA variation partitioning for compositional variations.

Results

Dung beetle abundance and species richness showed large seasonal variations, but remained relatively similar between years. Indeed, aridity and its interaction with season and year were the strongest correlates of variations in species richness and composition. Increasing aridity resulted in decreasing species richness and an ordered replacement of species, namely the substitution of the Mediterranean fauna by desert assemblages dominated by saprophagous and generalist species both in space towards the Sahara and in the dry season.

Discussion

Our study shows that aridity determines composition in dung beetle communities, filtering species both in space and time. Besides the expected decrease in species richness, such environmental filtering promotes a shift towards generalist and saprophagous species in arid conditions, probably related to changes in resource quality along the transect and through the year. Our results highlight the importance of considering the effects of the highly-unpredictable seasonal and inter-annual variations in precipitation when studying dryland communities.
σ‐Aromaticity in a Fully Unsaturated Ring
Authors: Wu Jingjing , Liu Xin , Hao Yulei , Chen Hongjiang , Su Peifeng , Wu Wei , Zhu Jun
Published: September 2018

Aromaticity is one of the most fundamental and fascinating chemical topics, attracting both experimental and theoretical chemists owing to its many manifestations. Both σ‐ and π‐aromaticity can be classified depending on the character of the cyclic electron delocalization. In general, σ‐aromaticity stabilizes fully saturated rings with σ‐electron delocalization whereas the traditional π‐aromaticity describes the π‐conjugation in fully unsaturated rings. Here, we demonstrate a strong correlation between nucleus‐independent chemical shift (NICS) values and extra cyclic resonance energies (ECREs), which are used to evaluate the σ‐aromaticity in an unsaturated three‐membered ring (3MR) of cyclopropene, which were computed by molecular orbital (MO) theory and valence bond (VB) theory, respectively. Further study shows that the fully unsaturated ring in methylenecyclopropene and its metallic analogy is σ‐aromatic. Our findings revolutionize the fundamental knowledge of the concept of σ‐aromaticity, thus opening an avenue to design σ‐aromaticity in other fully unsaturated systems, which are traditionally reserved as the domain of π‐aromaticity.
Paclitaxel‐eluting balloon versus everolimus‐eluting stent in patients with diabetes mellitus and in‐stent restenosis: Insights from the randomized DARE trial
Authors: Claessen Bimmer E. , Henriques José P. S. , Vendrik Jeroen , Boerlage‐van Dijk Kirsten , van der Schaaf René J. , Meuwissen Martijn , van Royen Niels , Gosselink A. T. Marcel , van Wely Marleen H. , Dirkali Atilla , Arkenbout E. Karin , Piek Jan. J. , Baan Jan
Published: September 2018

Objectives

To investigate the relative performance of treatment with a paclitaxel‐eluting balloon (PEB) compared with an everolimus‐eluting stent (EES) for in‐stent restenosis (ISR) in patients with diabetes mellitus (DM).

Background

ISR remains a challenge in contemporary clinical practice, particularly in patients with DM.

Methods

In the multicenter randomized DARE trial, patients with BMS or DES ISR were randomized in a 1:1 fashion to treatment with a PEB or an EES. Patients underwent angiographic follow‐up after 6 months. For the purpose of this analysis, the relative performance of PEB versus EES in diabetic patients was investigated.

Results

Of 278 patients enrolled in DARE, 88 (32%) had DM, of whom 46 were randomized to EES and 42 to PEB treatment. Of patients with DM, 48 (55%) had DES‐ISR. Angiographic follow‐up was available in 30 patients (72%) in the PEB group and 36 patients (78%) in the DES group. There were no differences in terms of 6‐months minimal lumen diameter in diabetic patients treated with EES (1.46 ± 0.66 mm) versus PEB (1.78 ± 0.58 mm, P = 0.15). Adverse events at one year follow‐up were similar in both groups, with Major Adverse Events (MAE, death, target vessel MI, or TVR) occurring in 17.4% in the EES group versus 11.9% in the PEB group, P = 0.44.

Conclusions

In patients with ISR and DM, use of a PEB resulted in similar 6‐months in‐segment minimal lumen diameter and comparable rates of MAE. In‐segment late loss at 6 months was significantly lower in the PEB arm. Although larger trials in DM patients with ISR are necessary, PEB is a promising treatment option obviating the need for additional stent implantation.
Restoration increases bee abundance and richness but not pollination in remnant and post‐agricultural woodlands
Authors: Breland Sabrie , Turley Nash E. , Gibbs Jason , Isaacs Rufus , Brudvig Lars A.
Published: September 2018

Human land use, including agriculture, is a leading contributor to declining biodiversity worldwide and can leave long‐lasting legacies on ecosystems after cessation. Ecological restoration is an approach to mitigate these impacts. However, little is known about how animal communities and plant–animal interactions respond to the combined effects of land‐use legacies and restoration. We investigated how restoration and agricultural history affect bee (Hymenoptera: Apoidea: Anthophila) communities and pollination function. In 27 paired remnant (no history of agriculture) and post‐agricultural longleaf pine (Pinus palustrisMill.) woodlands, we established 4–10 1‐ha plots (126 total) and experimentally restored half of them, while the other half were left as unrestored controls. Restoration was accomplished through canopy thinning which reinstates open savanna‐like conditions. We collected bees in each plot using a combination of bowl trapping and standardized netting transects. Thinning increased bee abundance by 169% and bee richness by 110%, but agricultural land use had no effect on these variables. Bee community composition was affected by restoration and was marginally affected by agricultural history. To measure pollination function, we conducted a sentinel plant experiment in which potted black mustard (Brassica nigraL.) plants were placed out in a subset of these sites (n = 10) and either bagged to exclude pollinators or left open for pollinator access. Then, we measured fruit and seed set of sentinel plants to compare pollination function among the restoration and land‐use history treatments. Seed set and fruit set of sentinel plants were higher in open than bagged plants, indicating that this model system effectively measured pollination, but we found no differences in pollination based on restoration or agricultural history. These results indicate that although pollinator communities may show clear responses to restoration that are largely independent of prior land‐use impacts, this does not necessarily translate into differences in pollination function after restoration.
Peptides meet ubiquitin: Simple interactions regulating complex cell signaling
Authors: Veggiani Gianluca , Sidhu Sachdev S.
Published: September 2018

The interplay between the ubiquitin proteasome system (UPS) and diverse peptide motifs controls almost every aspect of cell homeostasis. To achieve such an impressive functional diversity nature has evolved hundreds of different peptide motifs that interact with proteins in the UPS and ubiquitin itself to generate an immense network of interactions. Short peptides embedded in proteins are involved in controlling the intracellular levels of proteins as well as in the translation of ubiquitin signals into biochemical events. Therefore, it is not surprising that dysregulation of such interactions is associated with many diseases, including metabolic syndromes, neurodegenerative disorders, and cancer. We review the structural and functional features of peptide motifs interacting with the UPS and their use for generating protein‐protein interaction inhibitors.
Highly Efficient and Selective Method for Oxidation of Aldehydes to Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Wagh Ravindra , Nerurkar Gaurav , Nagarkar Jayashree
Published: September 2018

An efficient and green method has been developed for oxidation of aldehydes to carboxylic acids by employing deep eutectic solvent (DES) (ChCl:Urea) as a green solvent in the presence of H2O2 as an oxidant at ambient temperature. Numerous aldehydes were oxidized to give corresponding carboxylic acids with exceptional conversion and selectivity under catalyst free conditions. Sustainable approach, use of green solvent (ChCl:Urea) and good to excellent yield of products make this method greener and unconventional over other reported procedures.
Non‐profit organizations as a nexus between government and business: Evidence from Chinese charities
Authors: Zheng Weiting , Ni Na , Crilly Donal
Published: September 2018

Research Summary

Non‐profit organizations in emerging markets frequently have to manage relations with governments and for‐profit firms. We advance a multistakeholder perspective and develop propositions about how the political ties of charities influence their success in raising funds from corporate donors. Evidence from 2,054 Chinese charities during 2005–2012 shows that organizational political ties, established through formal affiliation with the government, aid fundraising from corporate donors, whereas personal political ties, formed through personal political services of senior leaders of charities, have no such effect. The positive effect of government affiliation is relevant for both foreign and domestic donors, but stronger for domestic ones. These results highlight the differential impact and contingent value of political embeddedness for charities' ability to acquire resources from for‐profit business, contributing to both stakeholder theory and the political embeddedness perspective.

Managerial Summary

Non‐profit organizations have to maintain productive relations with multiple stakeholders, including government and business. We focus on Chinese charities that seek to raise funds to fulfill their mission. We identify how their political relations influence the behavior of corporate donors. Evidence from 2,054 charities from 2005 to 2012 shows that political ties formed through organizational affiliation with a political body help charities attract corporate donors that seek legitimacy. In contrast, ties formed through personal connections with politicians have less influence on donors who perceive a high risk of connected insiders engaging in activities of dubious legality. The value of political ties is more pronounced for domestic corporate donors.
Scalar CFTs and their large N limits
Authors: Rong Junchen , Su Ning
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We study scalar conformal field theories whose large N spectrum is fixed by the operator dimensions of either the Ising model or the Lee-Yang edge singularity. Using the numerical bootstrap to study CFTs with S

N
⊗ Z
2 symmetry, we find a series of kinks whose locations approach (Δ

σ

Ising
, Δ
∈
Ising
) at N → ∞. Setting N = 4, we study the cubic anisotropic fixed point with three spin components. As byproducts of our numerical bootstrap work, we discover another series of kinks whose identification with previous known CFTs remains a mystery. We also show that “minimal models” of

$$ {\mathcal{W}}_3 $$

W
3

algebra saturate the numerical bootstrap bounds of CFTs with S
3 symmetry.
Leptonic CP violation and proton decay in SUSY SO(10)
Authors: Mohapatra Rabindra N. , Severson Matt
Published: September 2018

Abstract

We study the correlation between proton lifetime and leptonic CP violation in a class of renormalizable supersymmetric SO(10) grand unified theories (GUTs) with 10, 126 and 120 Higgs fields, which provides a unified description of all fermion masses and a possible resolution for the strong CP problem. This specific model is unique in that it can so far be compatible with current proton lifetime limits for a supersymmetry (SUSY) breaking scale as low as 5 TeV due to the presence of a specific Yukawa texture. Our investigation reveals that a discovery of leptonic CP violation in neutrino oscillations would lead to substantial reduction of the parameter space of the model and the potential ruling out of type-II dominance in the neutrino mass seesaw. Furthermore, the previously predicted proton partial lifetimes are sufficiently long for only certain values of the leptonic CP phase.
Surgical Burden of Musculoskeletal Conditions in Low‐ and Middle‐Income Countries
Authors: Joshipura Manjul , Gosselin Richard A.
Published: September 2018

Background

The burden of musculoskeletal conditions is growing worldwide. In low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMIC), the burden cannot be fully estimated, due to paucity of credible data. Further, no attempt has been made so far to estimate surgical burden of musculoskeletal conditions. This is a difficult task and accurate estimation of what would constitute surgical burden out of the total musculoskeletal burden in LMIC is not possible, due to number of constraints.

Methods

This review looks at current understanding of the musculoskeletal conditions, that can be measured in LMIC and the limitations based on previous studies and past global burden of diseases estimates.

Results

An attempt has been made to identify major conditions where a range of surgical burden can be predicted.

Conclusion

We conclude that there is huge scope for improvement in the current surveillance mechanism of surgical procedures undertaken for musculoskeletal conditions in LMIC so that the surgical burden can be more accurately predicted. Unless this burden can be highlighted, the attention to these conditions in LMIC will be limited.
The Mediating Role of Sexual Behavior in Event-Level Associations Between Sexual Difficulties and Sexual Satisfaction in Newlywed Mixed-Sex Couples
Authors: Jodouin Jean-François , Bergeron Sophie , Janssen Erick
Published: September 2018

Introduction

Many sexual difficulties encountered by couples in their day-to-day lives, although of insufficient intensity and persistence to warrant a clinical diagnosis of sexual disorder, are nevertheless frequent and a source of individual and relational distress.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the event-level associations between couples’ everyday, subclinical sexual difficulties (specifically, low subjective sexual arousal, low physiological sexual arousal, and genito-pelvic pain), the range of sexual behaviors that these couples engage in, and their sexual satisfaction.

Methods

70 Newlywed participants (35 couples, average age = 25.6 years, SD = 3.2 years; average duration of relationship = 5.4 years, SD = 3.4 years) individually completed daily diaries about sexual difficulties, range of activities performed during sex, and sexual satisfaction over the course of 5 weeks. Analyses were guided by the actor-partner interdependence model.

Main Outcome Measure

The main outcome was sexual satisfaction, measured at the event-level on a 5-point Likert scale using a single-item question.

Results

On days of sexual activity, men and women’s difficulties with subjective sexual arousal were associated with lower sexual satisfaction in both partners (actor and partner effects). This association was mediated by the range of couples’ sexual behaviors, such that lower subjective arousal was associated with a more restricted range of sexual activities, which in turn was associated with lower sexual satisfaction. Men’s and women’s difficulties with physiological sexual arousal, and women’s genito-pelvic pain, were each associated with their own lower sexual satisfaction. No partner effects were observed for these sexual difficulties, nor were they mediated by the range of couples’ sexual activities.

Clinical Implications

The study’s results highlight how couples’ sexual difficulties can interfere with same-day sexual satisfaction, and how for subjective sexual arousal, this interference is reflected by a more restricted range of sexual behaviors.

Strength & Limitations

Strengths of the study include the daily diary methodology, which allowed a focus on event-level sexual activities with minimal retrospective bias. Further, the dyadic analyses allowed both intra-individual and inter-individual effects to be assessed. Limitations include the lack of a more general measure of sexual desire and of a more diverse sample, in terms of age, race, and sexual orientation.

Conclusion

These findings underscore the importance of treatments that include both partners, and that target the types as well as range of sexual activities in which couples engage.
Computed tomographic morphometric analysis of lateral inclination C1 pedicle screw for atlantoaxial instability patients with a narrow C1 posterior arch
Authors: Zhang Lei , Wang Huan
Published: September 2018

Atlanto‐axial instability (AAI) is a congenital or developmental condition that leads to instability/subluxation of the atlantoaxial joint. This study is performed to determine anatomic feasibility of trajectory L and help select an optimal screw trajectory in treating patients with AAI with a narrow C1 posterior arch. Sixty patients who underwent cervical three dimensional‐computed tomography (3D‐CT) were chosen from the hospital's picture archiving and communication system (PACS). Aquilion Multi 64 helical CT was used to perform CT examinations and measurements on patients. Based on CT images, the trajectory L and M for each C1 pedicle were established. Posterior arch height was measured on C1 coronal image. The medullary cavity width along trajectory M was narrower than trajectory L. The medullary cavity width that was less than 3.5 mm was found in 12.5% pedicles along trajectory M and 2.5% along trajectory L. The posterior arch height along trajectory L was significantly higher than that of trajectory M. Posterior arch height that was less than 3.5 mm was found in 74.2% pedicles along trajectory M and only 16.7% along trajectory L. The pedicle length along trajectory L was significantly longer than trajectory M. Trajectory angles for C1 pedicles had an average of 9.08° ± 4.66° along trajectory L and 14.53° ± 4.03° along trajectory M. The Optimal entry point of trajectory L was 5.4 mm medial to trajectory M. Based on our results, this study suggests that C1 pedicle screw trajectory with lateral inclination yielded a good outcome in the treatment of AAI.
GDPR is here and it is time to get serious
Authors: Miglicco Gary
Published: September 2018

It is here. May 25 of this year marked the effective date of the most comprehensive privacy regulations on the planet. But most organisations in the US and Canada are probably not compliant with the European Union's sweeping new General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that has now taken effect.

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is here and these tough new rules affect any company, government agency or other organisation that does business in Europe or handles the personal data of EU citizens or residents.

There's no magic wand an organisation can wave to suddenly become compliant. And there's a surprising lack of awareness or concern about these regulations in the US. Gary Miglicco of PCM explains how GDPR means a dramatic change in how US companies manage their customers’ private data, and that it is only the start of a worldwide swing towards greater protection of consumers’ information.
Crypto-jacking: how cyber-criminals are exploiting the crypto-currency boom
Authors: Sigler Karl
Published: September 2018

In a little under a decade, crypto-currency has developed from an esoteric experiment to one of the hottest topics in both the technology and finance fields. Since the emergence of Bitcoin as the first centralised crypto-currency in 2009, the industry has exploded and there are more than 1,500 different currencies now available.

In a little under a decade, crypto currency has developed from an esoteric experiment to one of the hottest topics in both the technology and finance fields.

Alas it has also led to crypto-jacking where a target's machine is infected with mining malware. Organisations must ensure that they are able to spot the signs and shut illegal miners down, if they don't want to suffer overtaxed networks and angry customers, explains Karl Sigler of SpiderLabs at Trustwave.
Scamming the scammers with their own tricks
Authors: Wilson John
Published: September 2018

Despite constant warnings from the security community and authorities, cases of business email compromise (BEC) continue to roll in. In its most recent report, the FBI estimated that financial losses from these attacks has amounted to more than $5.3bn since October 2013.
How can adblocking play a significant role in an SME's defence strategy?
Authors: Williams Ben
Published: September 2018

The advancement of technology today has turned the Internet into an open arena where individuals and organisations can spread information in ways that have never been possible before. While this has brought an enormous variety of opportunities for everyone to explore, it has also turned the Internet into an unpredictable ‘Wild West’ where only a few are held accountable. Cyber-threats such as phishing scams, fraud and malvertising are just some of the issues that have become increasingly relevant to organisations' safety.
The practicalities and barriers of using TEG6s in code red traumas: an observational study in one London major trauma centre
Authors: Morton Sarah , Galea Judi , Uprichard James , Hudson Anthony
Published: September 2018

Objective

Trauma induced coagulopathy is a disorder of the coagulation pathway that occurs following major trauma. “Code red trauma” require massive hemorrhage protocol activation. The aim was to qualitatively establish the reasons TEG is not currently utilized and the ongoing practicalities in performing a TEG sample for trauma-related massive hemorrhage.

Methods

A pilot study was performed using a TEG6s machine within one central London Major Trauma Centre’s resuscitation department. Staff were asked to run a TEG sample on any “code red” patient who attended during the trial. Staff were given questionnaires both before and after the trial to assess the knowledge around TEG.

Results

A TEG sample was performed in 75% of the sixteen “code red traumas,” with one sample being unsuccessful. Only one patient had their blood component management altered due to the TEG result with only 50% of consultants and registrars surveyed feeling confident in interpreting TEG results.

Conclusion

TEG6s samples can be run within the resuscitation department in a “code red trauma.” However, there is a significant lack of knowledge relating to TEG within the emergency department which is likely to hinder its impact on personalized blood component management. More research is required in how to provide appropriate education in a busy setting to enable TEG to be utilized appropriately.
Canadian Assessment of Deep Brain Stimulation Access: The Canada Study
Authors: Honey C. Michael , Malhotra Armaan K. , Tamber Mandeep S. , Prud’homme Michel , Mendez Ivar , Honey Christopher R.
Published: September 2018

Background

The Canada Health Act requires reasonable access to all medically necessary therapies. No information is available to assess the current access to neuromodulation across Canada. This study quantifies the current rate of deep brain stimulation (DBS) for the entire country of Canada. Analyses were performed to determine whether there were differences in access based on provincial or territorial location, rural or non-rural region, or socioeconomic status.

Methods

All implanted DBS devices in Canada over a 2-year epoch (January 2015 to December 2016) were supplied by either Boston Scientific or Medtronic. Investigators received anonymized data from these companies, including patient age and home residence region. The 2016 Statistics Canada census data were used to determine the rate of DBS surgery and whether access was related to provincial location, rural versus non-rural region or socioeconomic status.

Results

A total of 722 patients were studied. The rate of DBS surgery for the entire country was ten per million population per year. Saskatchewan was significantly above (374%) the national average, whereas Quebec (40%) and Newfoundland & Labrador (32%) were significantly below the national average. No patients from the three territories received DBS. There were no significant differences in access from rural versus non-rural areas or in regions within provinces with different socioeconomic status.

Conclusions

This is the first study to quantify all patients receiving DBS within an entire country. The current rate of DBS surgery within Canada is ten cases per million per year. Statistically significant regional differences were discovered and discussed.
Neuromuscular Ultrasound: A New Tool in Your Toolbox
Authors: van Alfen Nens , Mah Jean K.
Published: September 2018

Neuromuscular ultrasound is a rapidly evolving technique for diagnosing, monitoring and facilitating treatment of patients with muscle and nerve disorders. It is a portable point-of-care technology that is non-invasive, painless and without ionizing radiation. Ultrasound can visualize muscle texture alterations indicating dystrophy or denervation, changes in size and anatomic continuity of nerve fascicles, and its dynamic imaging capabilities allow capturing of contractions and fasciculations. Ultrasound can also provide real-time guidance for needle placement, and can sometimes make a diagnosis when electromyography is not tolerated or not informative anymore. This review will focus on the technical and practical aspects of ultrasound as an imaging technique for muscles and nerves. It will discuss basic imaging principles, hardware and software setup, and provide examples of ultrasound use for visualizing muscle and nerve abnormalities with accuracy and confidence. The review is intended as a practical “how-to” guide to get started with neuromuscular ultrasound in daily practice.
Give and Take: Needed Updates to Social Exchange Theory
Authors: Cooper-Thomas Helena D. , Morrison Rachel L.
Published: September 2018

In their focal article, Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu (2018) argue that social exchange theory (SET) needs an update, and in this they are aligned with Cropanzano, Anthony, Daniels, and Hall's (2017) recent critical review of SET. Drawing on Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu's research, we explore two issues in more depth: first, that work relationships are becoming more complex than can be represented by simple dyadic reciprocity; and second, that the context of work is changing rapidly, with implications for workplace relationships. In exploring the ideas put forward by Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu, we draw on Cropanzano et al.’s two-dimensional model of social exchange, with the first dimension being desirable (positive) resources contrasted with undesirable (negative) ones, and the additional dimension being active (exhibit) behavior versus passive (withdraw) behavior. The first valence-oriented dimension fits clearly with the four foci of Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu's research, which cover both positive constructs, namely leader–member exchange (LMX), perceived organizational support and loyalty, and organizational citizenship behaviors (OCB), as well as negative constructs of perceived organizational politics and counterproductive work behaviors (CWB). The second, behavioral dimension proposed by Cropanzano et al. adds useful theoretical specificity that may address Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu's contention that SET needs updating to account for changes in how employees work and how organizations function.
The Workplace Working Alliance: The Modern Organizational Relationship
Authors: North Mark A. , Jensen Dylan
Published: September 2018

The evolution of organizational working relationships is always a timely discussion, especially in an age where globalization, remote workforces, and most recently artificial intelligence, to name just three, hold great promise but also concern for organizations’ capabilities to build on the strengths of traditional relationship theories while looking forward to and blazing paths toward future relationship theories. We appreciate Chernyak-Hai's and Rabenu's (2018) questioning of the “old” social exchange theory (SET) as a relevant organizing framework and their proposition of a “new” or hybrid workplace relationship theory to reflect today's workforce. In short, Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu practice good science by not throwing out what does not seem to fit but rather helping science evolve into what it needs to become (see Gergen's [2001] great commentary on ill-advised practices of ending traditions when criticisms are levied). We also admire Chernyak-Hai's and Rabenu's willingness to invite “additional organizational behavior [OB] theories” (p. 476) to join the conversation in defining what the new era workplace relationship might look like. With that invitation and a little latitude in what could be defined as “an OB theory,” we propose that the working alliance (WA; Bordin, 1979) be given space in that narrative. The substance of our commentary will describe the WA connection with Chernyak-Hai and Rabenu's new or hybrid theory, principally as it relates to issues regarding (a) tension toward equality and fairness and (b) mutual reciprocity in exchange relationships.
THE OPTIMAL JET EXTENSION OF OHSAWA–TAKEGOSHI TYPE
Authors: HOSONO GENKI
Published: September 2018

We prove the $L^{2}$ extension theorem for jets with optimal estimate following the method of Berndtsson–Lempert. For this purpose, following Demailly’s construction, we consider Hermitian metrics on jet vector bundles.
Core psychopathology of treatment-seeking patients with binge-eating disorder: a network analysis investigation
Authors: Wang Shirley B. , Jones Payton J. , Dreier Melissa , Elliott Haley , Grilo Carlos M.
Published: September 2018

Background

Mental disorders may emerge as the result of interactions between observable symptoms. Such interactions can be analyzed using network analysis. Several recent studies have used network analysis to examine eating disorders, indicating a core role of overvaluation of weight and shape. However, no studies to date have applied network models to binge-eating disorder (BED), the most prevalent eating disorder.

Methods

We constructed a cross-sectional graphical LASSO network in a sample of 788 individuals with BED. Symptoms were assessed using the Eating Disorders Examination Interview. We identified core symptoms of BED using expected influence centrality.

Results

Overvaluation of shape emerged as the symptom with the highest centrality. Dissatisfaction with weight and overvaluation of weight also emerged as highly central symptoms. On the other hand, behavioral symptoms such as binge eating, eating in secret, and dietary restraint/restriction were less central. The network was stable, allowing for reliable interpretations (centrality stability coefficient = 0.74).

Conclusions

Overvaluation of shape and weight emerged as core symptoms of BED. This trend is consistent with past network analyses of eating disorders more broadly, as well as literature that suggests a primary role of shape and weight concerns in BED. Although DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for BED does not currently include a cognitive criterion related to body image or shape/weight overvaluation, our results provide support for including shape/weight overvaluation as a diagnostic specifier.
RAZIONALITÀ POLITICA, VIRTÙ CIVICA E IDENTITÀ NAZIONALE
Authors: Rusconi Gian Enrico
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

La democrazia ideale è quella che combina funzionalità istituzionale, efficienza economico-amministrativa con il consenso e il lealismo dei cittadini. Quando un sistema democratico realizza queste condizioni ottimali, può dirsi un modello di razionalità politica. Naturalmente le democrazie realmente esistenti sono lontane da questo modello. Molte sono inefficienti nei loro apparati istituzionali, hanno cattive prestazioni amministrative, con pesanti conseguenze economiche e sociali e contraccolpi negativi in termini di consenso. È il caso della democrazia italiana da anni viziata da inefficienze e disfunzionalità che, aggravate da sistematici meccanismi di corruzione, hanno dato luogo a fenomeni di disaffezione civico-politica senza precedenti.
I PROGRAMMI ELETTORALI E IL RUOLO DEI MASS MEDIA
Authors: Segatti Paolo
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

Se si ripensa alla primavera dell'anno scorso, all'indomani del referendum che aprì la strada alla nuova legge elettorale, è difficile non rimanere colpiti dalla quantità e dall'intensità delle aspettative di cambiamento presenti nell'opinione pubblica, almeno per come esse venivano riflesse dai mass media.
I CANDIDATI
Authors: Mattina Liborio
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

Le valutazioni sui mutamenti determinati dalle elezioni politiche del marzo 1994 sono contrastanti. Molta pubblicistica politica ha affermato che le elezioni hanno provocato un profondo cambiamento nella composizione del ceto politico parlamentare, altri hanno sostenuto, invece, che era avvenuta solo un'operazione di maquillage che ha portato i «ragazzi del coro» in prima fila a cogliere la grande occasione offerta dal forzato ritiro dei leader identificati con l'odiata partitocrazia. Uno degli obiettivi di questo saggio è dimostrare che entrambe le interpretazioni sono sbagliate, la prima perché identifica il rinnovamento semplicemente con il cambio delle «facce» mentre esso va valutato in relazione alla composizione sociologica e alle caratteristiche professionali del nuovo ceto parlamentare; l'altra perché sopravvaluta le possibilità delle élite politiche di continuare a premiare ad libitum se stesse ed i fedeli, trascurando di contribuire al rinnovamento del personale politico in un periodo di transizione politico-istituzionale contrassegnato da una notevole crisi di legittimazione delle burocrazie partitiche.
IL VOTO PROPORZIONALE E IL NUOVO SPAZIO POLITICO ITALIANO
Authors: Ricolfi Luca
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

Questo saggio si occupa esclusivamente del voto di lista (ai singoli partiti), espresso mediante la «scheda proporzionale» della Camera alle elezioni politiche del 27 e 28 marzo 1994. Il suo scopo è essenzialmente di ritracciare la mappa politica dell'Italia, sia in termini territoriali sia in termini di geometria dello spazio elettorale. Quest'ultimo aspetto verrà affrontato, in questo lavoro, esclusivamente sotto il profilo macro, considerando come unità di analisi i collegi o le circoscrizioni enongli individui.
TEORIA DELLA SCELTA RAZIONALE E SCIENZA POLITICA: UN INCONTRO CON POCHI FRUTTI?
Authors: Green Donald P. , Shapiro Ian
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

Dalla pubblicazione diSocial Choice and Individual Valuesdi Kenneth Arrow nel 1951, si è avuta un'esplosione dell'approcciorational choicenegli studi di scienza politica. Negli anni Cinquanta e nei primi anni Sessanta, la teoria della scelta razionale rappresentava poco più di un ramo secondario all'interno di una disciplina – la scienza politica – dominata da varie forme di analisi behaviorista e istituzionalista. Oggi, di contro, essa si è diffusa ben oltre le sue prime pubblicazioni e i suoi esoterici adepti. È ben rappresentata nelle principali riviste e convegni della disciplina, e i suoi sostenitori sono richiesti da tutti i più importanti dipartimenti americani di scienza politica. La teoria della scelta razionale ha esteso il suo ambito di applicazione oltre la teoria politica e la politica americana, dapprima negli studi di relazioni internazionali e più di recente nella politica comparata. A dire il vero, quasi nessuna area della scienza politica è rimasta immune dalla sua influenza. Un conteggio degli articolirational choicepubblicati dall'American Political Science Reviewdal 1952, presentato nella figura 1, attesta una crescita quanto-mai sostenuta. Invisibile nel 1952, a distanza di quarant'anni la scuola della scelta razionale annovera quindici articoli su quarantuno nella rivista di punta della disciplina.
I NUOVI SINDACI: COME CAMBIA UNA CARRIERA POLITICA
Authors: Lattes Gianfranco Bettin , Magnier Annick
Published: September 2018

La carriera del sindaco nella ricerca pionieristica

Il termine carriera, qualunque sia il campo concreto di riferimento, unisce un elemento dinamico – usualmente percepito con una valenza ascendente – con un elemento tendenzialmente stabile, riconducibile ad un progetto prefigurato in un dato ambito istituzionale. A comprovare l'ambiguità semantica del termine stanno due suoi caratteri antitetici solo in apparenza. In primo luogo, l'aspetto istituzionale storicamente consolidato nei termini di un percorso potenziale a disposizione degli attori dotati ed interessati; in questo senso, la carriera è lo schema organizzativo d'una professione ordinata. In secondo luogo, l'aspetto soggettivo connesso all'attore che intraprende, svolge e matura la sua carriera. Questo secondo aspetto, non certo secondario sotto il profilo sociologico, introduce un elemento di alea legato all'adempimento effettivo della carriera, la quale in quasi tutti gli ambiti istituzionali non prevede uno svolgimento completo in una forma rigida. La definizione della carriera dipende dalle modalità della sua interpretazione soggettiva in una misura che sembra assai interessante studiare empiricamente.
LA TRANSIZIONE ITALIANA: IL VOTO REGIONALE DEL 23 APRILE
Authors: D'Alimonte Roberto
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

Il nuovo sistema elettorale per l'elezione dei consiglieri delle quindici regioni a statuto ordinario rappresenta l'ultimo tassello del processo di riforma delle regole elettorali. Come i sistemi elettorali per le elezioni parlamentari, comunali e provinciali, è anche esso un sistema misto. Più precisamente è un sistema a turno unico con un doppio voto: uno per l'attribuzione dell'80% dei seggi con formula proporzionale in circoscrizioni coincidenti con il territorio delle province; l'altro per la assegnazione del restante 20%, con scrutinio maggioritario di lista, in una unica circoscrizione coincidente con il territorio della regione. Questa quota rappresenta il premio destinato alla lista regionale che ottenga il maggiore numero di voti. Come vedremo successivamente, il premio non sempre corrisponde al 20% dei seggi, ma è in realtà variabile. In ogni caso però – ed è questa la caratteristica più importante del nuovo sistema elettorale – esso è tale da garantire al partito o alla coalizione di partiti vincenti la maggioranza assoluta dei seggi in consiglio. Complessivamente, dunque, si tratta di un sistema di difficile classificazione: prevalentemente proporzionale quanto a rappresentatività delle forze politiche, tendenzialmente maggioritario quanto alla dinamica della competizione elettorale e all'impatto sulla formazione del governo regionale. Tutto sommato, la dizione «sistema proporzionale a premio di maggioranza variabile» mi sembra la più adatta a riassumerne le caratteristiche principali. In questa sezione le vedremo una per una cominciando dalla struttura della scheda elettorale.
LA FORMAZIONE DEI PARTITI CONFESSIONALI IN EUROPA
Authors: N. Kalyvas Stathis , Chiaramonte Alessandro
Published: September 2018

Di recente, la ricerca sociologica per lo più quantitativa ha riaffermato l'importanza della religione riguardo all'azione politica e alle politiche pubbliche. Tra i suoi contributi vi sono vari modelli di associazione tra la religione, nella sua variante cattolica, ed una pluralità di esiti politici e dipolicy.Castles (1994) ha individuato un'evidenzaprima facieper cui il cattolicesimo è associato con molti esiti dipolicyquali la spesa assistenziale, le politiche della famiglia, ed esiti connessi al mercato del lavoro. Misra e Hicks (1994) hanno trovato una relazione positiva tra ciò che essi chiamano «cultura romano-cattolica» e livello di sindacalizzazione. Infine, Wilensky (1981), Esping-Andersen (1990), Huber, Ragin e Stephens (1993), e più recentemente Van Kersbergen (1995) hanno tutti rilevato che i partiti cristiano-democratici sono correlati ad alti livelli di spese sociali. Queste scoperte sono ancor più significative se si considera che sono state fatte nel contesto delle società probabilmente più secolarizzate: quelle dell'Europa occidentale contemporanea. Proprio per questo, gli autori di tali studi sottolineano la portata più ampia delle loro scoperte e reclamano una rinnovata attenzione alla religione, al cattolicesimo, ai partiti cristiano-democratici, affermando che «per gli anni '90 il cattolicesimo dovrebbe fornire una prospettiva fruttuosa per lo studio dellapolitical economycosì come per gli anni '80 la socialdemocrazia» (Misra e Hicks 1994,319).
LA PARTECIPAZIONE ELETTORALE: GLI EFFETTI DELLA COMPETIZIONE MAGGIORITARIA
Authors: Caramani Daniele
Published: September 2018

Premessa

I livelli di partecipazione elettorale vengono spesso considerati come uno dei principali termometri dello stato di salute di una democrazia. Sebbene la loro interpretazione da parte della teoria democratica non sia sempre stata univoca, il calo della partecipazione viene solitamente associato a immagini di «crisi» dei sistemi politici e delle tradizionali forme di rappresentanza, a fasi di transizione e ad atteggiamenti di disaffezione, di apatia e di protesta da parte dei cittadini nei confronti delle istituzioni.

La forte crescita del fenomeno astensionista durante quello che viene ormai comunemente considerato il periodo della transizione italiana, sembrerebbe avvalorare questa tesi. Nel raffronto internazionale, tassi elevati e stabili hanno caratterizzato la partecipazione elettorale nell'Italia repubblicana. Tuttavia, dalla fine degli anni '70 l'astensionismo si è manifestato sempre più marcatamente. Se da un lato ciò ha destato una certa preoccupazione, dall'altro si è rinnovato l'interesse tra osservatori e studiosi nei confronti dei problemi della partecipazione elettorale2. I grandi mutamenti politici che si sono verificati a partire dalle elezioni del 1992 ed il grande fermento politico e sociale che ne è scaturito, non hanno invertito questa tendenza. Al contrario, la partecipazione alle elezioni ne è risultata contratta e le elezioni del 21 aprile 1996 hanno registrato una ulteriore brusca frenata dell'affluenza.
INDIZI DI UN INVERNO PRECOCE: IL VOTO PROPORZIONALE TRA EQUILIBRIO E CONTINUITÀ
Authors: Cartocci Roberto
Published: September 2018

Non solo un correttivo

La riforma elettorale del 1993, pur nella sua architettura bifronte e ambigua1, modifica in maniera decisiva il sistema elettorale in senso maggioritario. La quota di seggi assegnata con il sistema proporzionale, pensata per attutire i verdetti, prevedibilmente perentori, della competizione maggioritaria a turno unico, rispetto a quest'ultima assume un peso numericamente subordinato.

In conformità allo spirito e alla lettera della legge sia nel 1994 sia nel 1996 il confronto elettorale è stato centrato sulla competizione maggioritaria, in cui le coalizioni e i candidati nei collegi uninominali hanno giocato il ruolo degli attori principali. Nel 1996, poi, il rilievo della competizione maggioritaria è stato ulteriormente accresciuto in virtù del processo di apprendimento istituzionale degli attori2. In particolare, nel 1996 un adeguamento decisivo al formato maggioritario è passato attraverso la contrapposizione di due leader di coalizione, designati come capi del futuro esecutivo. Questa personalizzazione dello scontro, così congeniale alle esigenze di semplificazione e drammatizzazione dei media, ha di conseguenza accentuato il rilievo delle due coalizioni principali, che hanno allargato la loro ombra sugli altri attori (la Lega, i candidati di collegio, ecc.), e soprattutto a danno dei contendenti dell'arena proporzionale.
LA CLASSE POLITICA DELLA TRANSIZIONE
Authors: Verzichelli Luca
Published: September 2018

1994-1996. Un complesso periodo di rinnovamento

La recente transizione italiana ha riaperto questioni che negli ultimi anni erano state trascurate dalle analisi politologiche, come le trasformazioni della classe politica e dei suoi modelli di selezione e carriera. Diversi contributi hanno evidenziato la nuova rilevanza assunta da tali questioni, confortati peraltro da un'ampia produzione pubblicistica che si è concentrata essenzialmente sulle caratteristiche socio-professionali dei nuovi politici e sul tasso di rinnovamento del personale parlamentare.
QUALE «DEMOCRAZIA COSTITUZIONALE»? LA CORTE FEDERALE NELLA POLITICA TEDESCA E IL PROBLEMA DELLA COSTITUZIONE EUROPEA
Authors: Rusconi Gian Enrico
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

La Germania offre una interessante versione contemporanea dello «Stato costituzionale» o della «democrazia costituzionale» con le sue tipiche tensioni tra responsabilità politica parlamentare e giustizia costituzionale. Un esempio tanto più istruttivo in quanto si pone all'incrocio tra la tradizione tedesca dello «Stato di diritto» e la tendenza ad un «nuovo costituzionalismo» che suscita crescente attenzione nelle scienze politiche e giuridiche.

Ma c'è di più. La centralità del ruolo della Germania in Europa fa sì che questa problematica si proietti sulla costruzione politico-costituzionale dell'Unione europea. L'istituzionalizzazione dell'Europa politica e la semplice ipotesi di una Costituzione europea rimettono in gioco i concetti classici di popolo, sovranità, statualità e legittimazione democratica e aggiornano i dilemmi del costituzionalismo e della Costituzione come statuto delle libertà, come contratto politico e come forma di governo. In questa ottica il progetto europeo acquista i tratti di una democrazia o Stato costituzionale tutto da esplorare, per il quale il modello tedesco diventa molto istruttivo.
DEMOCRAZIA CON AGGETTIVI. L'INNOVAZIONE CONCETTUALE NELLA RICERCA COMPARATA
Authors: Collier David , Levitsky Steven
Published: September 2018

Introduzione

La recente ondata universale di democratizzazioni ha posto gli studiosi di fronte alla sfida del confronto concettuale con una grande varietà di regimi postautoritari. Sebbene i nuovi regimi politici nazionali dell'America Latina, dell'Africa, dell'Asia e dell'ex mondo comunista condividano alcuni importanti attributi della democrazia, molti di essi presentano profonde differenze tra di loro e rispetto alle democrazie dei paesi industriali avanzati. E proprio per questo non pochi di essi non sono considerati democrazie a pieno titolo.