Social-ecological analysis of climate induced changes in biodiversity – outline of a research concept

The interactions of changes in climate and biodiversity with societal actions, structures and processes are a priority topic within the international scientific debate – and thus, a relevant subject matter for BiKF’s work. This paper outlines a concept for transdisciplinary research within BiKF. It focuses on the analysis of social-ecological systems supporting society with biodiversity driven ecosystem services. Such research is considering different issues: defining sustainable societal adaptations to climate induced biodiversity changes; permitting adequate understanding of the social-ecological reproduction of ecosystem functions, including their conservation and restoration; analysing the societal values and socio-economic utilisation of ecosystem services. Gaining knowledge in these areas provides an improved basis for decision-making in biodiversity and resource management

Transact taxes in a price maker/taker market

We develop a price maker/taker model to study how a financial transaction tax affects markets. We find taxes widen quoted and effective spreads by more than twice the tax. Taxes increase volatility slightly (without intermediation) to significantly (with intermediation). High taxes may halve volumes and gains from trade while doubling search costs. Measures of market quality are more affected by taxes in markets with intermediaries. Investors and intermediaries competing for liquidity can triple search costs and increase quoted spreads while decreasing effective spreads. We also find revenue-optimal rates of 60-75 bp. Our results are particularly relevant to markets with high-frequency trading or thin depth

Improved Precision and Efficiency of a Modified ORG0020 Dynamic Respiration Test Setup for Compost Stability Assessment

The ORG0020 dynamic respiration test is effective at distinguishing source segregated organic waste derived composts across a wide range of stabilities when compared to other standard tests; however, using the original diaphragm pump and manifold setup, the test is affected by variability in flow rate with time and across sample replicate vessels. Here, we demonstrate the use of a multichannel peristaltic pump to deliver a more consistent air flow to individual vessels. Using finished and unfinished industry compost samples from different sites with varying stabilities, we provide evidence of greater precision of the modified setup compared to the original. Furthermore, the reduced need for air flow adjustment resulted in improved running cost efficiency with less labour demand. Analysis of compost sample oxygen demand supports the current test air flow rate of 25–75 mL min−1, although the improved air flow control will enable future narrowing of the acceptable range for better inter-laboratory performance

Charcoal Barrier

Good morning, Anne. You\u27re certainly here early this morning. ..

Attribution styles regarding the cause and solution to problems, social support preferences, and mood changes following social comparison

This study examined how individual differences in attribution style affected one\u27s preferences for particular forms of social support. The study also explored how one\u27s attribution style influenced affective reactions to upward or downward social comparison. One hundred twenty-eight subjects were selected from a large pool of respondents who were administered the Janis-Field Feelings of Inadequacy Scale and an attribution style questionnaire was developed to assess subjects\u27 assignment of responsibility for the cause and solution of their problems. This questionnaire also contained a measure of subjects\u27 self-efficacy. Subjects completed several self-report measures and were presented with social comparison information in the form of a bogus statement. Statements varied according to how well the targets were coping and what attribution style they adopted. Results revealed a strong positive correlation between subjects\u27 self-attribution of responsibility for causing and solving problems and self-efficacy. There was a strong negative correlation between subjects\u27 self-attribution of responsibility for causing problems and their self-esteem. Subjects who either assumed responsibility for solving their problems or did not assume responsibility for causing their problems were found to prefer support group members who provided them with information about their problems. Subjects\u27 attributional style was not related to their willingness to utilize a support group. Following social comparison, subjects generally demonstrated a positive change in mood after hearing that peers were coping well with their problems. There was also a significant interaction between subjects\u27 attribution style, target\u27s attribution style, and social comparison. The implications of the study regarding help-seeking and help-giving were discussed

CE 650 Syllabus: Diagnosis and Treatment Planning

Understand the classification system used in the diagnosis of mental disorders. Understand the diagnostic criteria for each of the categories of mental disorders. Gain familiarity with interview and testing techniques used to determine diagnoses. Demonstrate the ability to make differential diagnoses. Demonstrate the ability to formulate an effective treatment plan for the various mental disorders

Publications on Chronic Disease in Coal Dependent Communities in Central Appalachia

CONTEXT: Agency and nonprofit reports have traditionally been the source of health information in Appalachia. Recently, publications have appeared in the literature associating coal mining, specifically mountain top mining, with numerous chronic health conditions spurring debate among environmental and industry interest groups. Publication quantity and quality were objectively assessed. This article reports on a literature review and analysis of publications on chronic disease in coal dependent communities in Appalachia. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a review and analysis of original, peer reviewed research publications on chronic health conditions in communities dependent on coal mining with a focus on central Appalachia and report on publication and research quantity and quality. DATA SOURCES: Thorough searches were conducted using PubMed, EBSCO, and CiNAHL computerized databases to identify original, peer-reviewed research articles addressing ‘Appalachia’, ‘health’ and ‘coal’. STUDY SELECTION: The computerized database search identified original research publications relevant to chronic health conditions (heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease, cancers, diabetes, obesity, etc.) and coal mining in central Appalachia. DATA EXTRACTION: Quantitative measures of the literature review provided information on author collaborations, year of publication, frequency of publication by contributing authors, etc. Journal impact factors were noted and other objective qualitative criteria were considered. DATA SYNTHESIS: Over 60 publications relevant to mining with 38 publications specific to Appalachia and health were identified. The publications were reviewed relative to relevance and article quality i.e., current, original research, application to central Appalachia and discussions of chronic human health and coal mining. Over the past five years most of the publications relevant to chronic disease and coal mining in central Appalachia resulted from a research group with a single common author. CONCLUSIONS: Science based evidence is needed and data must be provided by independent researchers from various disciplines of study to share different perspectives on how to alleviate the longstanding health disparities in central Appalachia. Studies will require the application of sound methodologies to validate the findings and support future interventions