Are bicultural bonobos able to recognize iconic representations and produce referential signs in human cultural terms?

This is a visual communication study of the graphic sign making and recognition capabilities of bonobo-chimpanzees (Pan paniscus). The study applies principles of semiotics to assess the bonobo-chimpanzee\u27s potential for meaningful communication through figurative signs. This research sees a distinction between art (expressive) and visual communication (informative), with emphasis on meaningful information exchange. Three tests are conducted. Test 1 involved the production of recognizable and representational imagery by bonobo-chimpanzees, who were asked in a standardized testing format to depict subjects from photographs. Test 2 was an assessment of their ability to recognize extremely simplified iconic signs to their respective photographs and remembering their intended meaning by selecting them from a series of two, three, and six different photographs. In Test 3, the bonobo-chimpanzees were asked for verification of each of their iconic drawings by matching to the photo each drawing from which it was depicted. These tests were statistically calculated for their significance (success rate). The capabilities needed to accomplish such tests are visual literacy and high cognition allowing for graphic representation and interpretation---an assembly of traits thought unique only to humans. These are capabilities that bonobo-chimpanzees have never shown empirically prior to this research. The results of this study show that bonobo-chimpanzees do have representational mark-making capabilities. They can recognize extremely simplified icons from photographs, and their marks have referential meaning to them across time. These results were statistically significant in Kanzi (bonobo-chimpanzee) and approaching significance in Pan Banisha (bonobo-chimpanzee). These results are deserving of a continued multidisciplinary approach to Hominid interspecies communication

The Cultural Impact on International Marketing: Understanding How Different Cultures Influence Advertising Perception and Strategies

This case study evaluates the effectiveness of standardized international marketing campaigns versus globalized international marketing campaigns in the context of two multinational corporations, McDonald\u27s and Burger King, both operating in the United Kingdom. The study compares the outcomes of a standardized marketing approach, which uses the same marketing messages and materials across all regions, to a globalized approach that considers local cultural differences and modifies the marketing messages accordingly. The study analyzes the impact of each approach on brand recognition, and customer engagement, as well as the benefits and challenges associated with each strategy. Additionally, the study examines the importance of cultural awareness and the potential risks associated with failing to adapt to local cultures. The findings of the case study provide insights into the effectiveness of each marketing strategy and highlight the importance of balancing global consistency with local relevance in marketing campaigns

Learning from the Past to Build for the Future: Reflections on Psychosocial Support Programs in War-torn Countries

This article addresses the healing process and impact on both individuals and communities as they attempt to heal from the traumatic violence of war and occupation. The psycho-social healing models presented integrate a knowledge of systems, political history, and their relationship to culturally appropriate healing strategies that are fueled by commitments to human rights and social justice. The models cited address issues of safety, the use of the arts, the power of narrative, and the importance of reconnecting and forging community bonds. The models in this article reflect a restorative justice perspective, an approach that promotes healing through a cooperative process, This process engages community members in groups that provide safe spaces to address conflict , harm, and reconnection with self and others. The original article was presented at a conference in the Occupied Palestinian Territories in 2008 and expanded to include observations and experiences during a 2014 trip to Palestine

Optimising Outcomes in Rehabilitation of Lower Limb Amputation

Limited research exists on outcomes following lower limb amputation. This is the first study to develop and validate Clinical Prediction Rules for prosthetic non-use at 4, 8 and 12 months after rehabilitation discharge. Performance thresholds that identify increased risk of prosthetic non-use have been generated for locomotor tests. Long term outcomes and comorbidities have been described for people with lower limb amputation. This thesis has contributed to evidence based health reform to models of care