In this paper, incoherent multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems operating over multimode fiber are analyzed theoretically. In particular, investigated is the influence of selection of the RF carrier frequency and other system parameters on the value of SNR at the MIMO receiver. It is shown that the RF carrier frequency should be greater than the baseband (3 dB) frequency. Furthermore, it is proved that the MIMO channel SNR reduction is smaller if the mode groups used for communication between transmitter/receiver pairs are different.


Work values are principles or goals, ordered by importance, that people seek and that guide his/her life at work. Family, school and work experiences are indicated as the most important factors in the formation of work values. Parents are considered the most influential social agent in this process, since they serve as a role model to their children. The present study examines the impact of the work values of parents on the work values of college students. One hundred and twenty nine (129) students and their parents (84 mothers and 45 fathers) in 17 randomly chosen undergraduate courses, as well as 956 colleagues of these students participated in this investigation. They answered the Work Values Scale. The results of the hierarchical regressions demonstrated that parents and colleagues influence the student's work values of Professional Achievement and Stability. The relevance and limitations of these results are discussed in this paper.


Healthcare reform has emphasized coordinated and integrated care — patient-centered care — for a decade. To that end, policymakers have invested in integration of healthcare providers' information flows. Research to date has studied healthcare actors' information needs but overlooked communicative exchanges among all participants in coordinating treatment plan decisions. Consequently, while medical literature asserts that patients should depend on information from healthcare providers to enable patients' participation in treatment plan decisions, the assertion has not been tested. To ameliorate this oversight, we conducted an empirical study of a patient-centered healthcare environment. Our study draws on dependency network diagramming (DND) and social network analysis (SNA) to elucidate the nature and structure of actors' communications in support of their information dependencies. The findings illustrate that although patients are well supported by personal communications with healthcare providers, they are disenfranchised from the integrated information technology within and between healthcare providers and its potential to support patients' participation in coordinated "patient-centered care" decisions. Furthermore, knowledge asymmetry between patients and healthcare providers should be considered in the selection and tailoring of healthcare information systems (IS).


The leachability of recent uranium deposits from stream sediments at wadi El Reddah area, Northeastern desert, Egypt are investigated as a part of ongoing plan for uranium exploration. Extensive laboratory scale leaching tests were carried out to optimize various process parameters for maximizing the recovery of uranium. Leaching parameters like temperature, agitation time, grinding size, solid/liquid ratio; leaching agents, oxidant, etc. were carried out. The maximum leaching of uranium (91.93%) was found after 2 hours of leaching using sulphuric acid, maintained at solid/liquid ratio of 1:5 at 160°C. Temperature plays a significant odd role in leaching percent of uranium. The present paper provides a new approached of detailed account of optimization of various process parameters.


Part III of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 prescribes that vessels and aircraft of all flags may exercise the right of transit passage while navigating through straits used for international navigation. This created a difficult situation for states bordering straits, particularly in protecting the marine environment of their territorial straits from vessel-source pollution. The Torres Strait was designated as a Particularly Sensitive Sea Area (PSSA) in 2005 and Australia introduced a compulsory pilotage regime as its Associated Protective Measures (APM), which has been effective in minimizing the risk of casualties in the Torres Strait. The increasing shipping traffic in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore may bring about adverse effects to the marine environment of these waterways. Hence, this article discusses the question of the viability and practicability of application of compulsory pilotage, should it be extended to the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.


Abstract Objectives To describe the prevalence and pattern of traumatic experiences, to assess the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS), to identify risk factors for PTSD and PTSS, and to analyse the association of PTSD and PTSS with concomitant anxiety and depressive symptoms in women requesting induced abortion. Methods A Swedish multi-centre study of women requesting an induced abortion. The Screen Questionnaire – Posttraumatic Stress Disorder was used for research diagnoses of PTSD and PTSS. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were evaluated by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Results Of the 1514 respondents, almost half reported traumatic experiences. Lifetime- and point prevalence of PTSD were 7% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 5.8–8.5) and 4% (95% CI: 3.1–5.2), respectively. The prevalence of PTSS was 23% (95% CI: 21.1–25.4). Women who reported symptoms of anxiety or depression when requesting abortion were more likely to have ongoing PTSD or PTSS. Also single-living women and smokers displayed higher rates of ongoing PTSD. Conclusions Although PTSD is rare among women who request an induced abortion, a relatively high proportion suffers from PTSS. Abortion seeking women with trauma experiences and existing or preexisting mental disorders need more consideration and alertness when counselled for termination.


The conventional 12/10 stator/rotor poles switched-flux permanent magnet (SFPM) machine is usually based on all poles wound topology, each phase comprising four winding coils in series connection. However, alternate coils of the same phase have different machine saliency characteristics. Moreover, in order to measure the high-frequency (HF) carrier voltage, the mid-tapered winding wires can be utilized. Consequently, the machine saliencies can be measured separately from two parts of winding coil connections. This paper investigates the influences of machine saliencies on the sensorless rotor position estimations based on different sequence of winding coil connections, in which the primary saliency may contain some additional harmonics referring to the secondary saliency that will degrade the overall sensorless control operations. Furthermore, a simple compensation method is proposed to reduce the influence of multiple saliencies to achieve more accurate sensorless rotor position estimation. By comparing with rotor positon estimations without the proposed compensation and HF carrier current based method, the effectiveness of improved sensorless rotor position estimation has been demonstrated experimentally, as well as the application to dual 3-phase SFPM machines. Index Terms high-frequency injection, machine saliency, machine winding configuration, permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM), switched-flux machine.


Semantics-preserving dimensionality reduction refers to the problem of selecting those input features that are most predictive of a given outcome; a problem encountered in many areas such as machine learning, pattern recognition, and signal processing. This has found successful application in tasks that involve data sets containing huge numbers of features (in the order of tens of thousands), which would be impossible to process further. Recent examples include text processing and Web content classification. One of the many successful applications of rough set theory has been to this feature selection area. This paper reviews those techniques that preserve the underlying semantics of the data, using crisp and fuzzy rough set-based methodologies. Several approaches to feature selection based on rough set theory are experimentally compared. Additionally, a new area in feature selection, feature grouping, is highlighted and a rough set-based feature grouping technique is detailed.


The disinfection characteristics of an open channel ultra-violet (UV) disinfection reactor is investigated numerically. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model used in this study is based on the volume of fluid (VOF) method to capture the water–air interface. The Lagrangian particle tracking method is used to calculate the microbial particle trajectory and the discrete ordinate (DO) model is used to calculate the UV intensity field inside the reactor. A commercial CFD software package ANSYS FLUENT is used to solve the governing equations. Custom user defined functions (UDFs) are developed to calculate the UV doses. A post-processor is developed in MATLAB to implement the inactivation kinetics of the microbes. The post-processor provides the probabilistic dose distribution and reduction equivalent dose (RED) values achievable in the reactor. The numerical predictions are compared with available experimental data to validate the CFD model. A parametric study is performed to understand the effects of different parameters on disinfection performance of the reactor. The low/high dosed particle trajectories, which can provide an insight for hydraulic and optical characteristics of the reactor for possible design improvements, are identified.


Leftwing critiques of philanthropy are not new and so it is unsurprising that the Effective Altruism movement, which regards philanthropy as one of its tools, has been a target in recent years. Similarly, some Effective Altruists have regarded anti-capitalist strategy with suspicion. This essay is an attempt at harmonizing Effective Altruism and the anti-capitalism. My attraction to Effective Altruism and anti-capitalism are motivated by the same desire for a better world and so personal consistency demands reconciliation. More importantly however, I think Effective Altruism will be less effective in realizing its own ends insofar as it fails to recognize that capitalism restricts the good we can do. Conversely, insofar as anti-capitalists fail to recognize the similarity in methods which underlie Effective Altruism thinking about the world, it too risks inefficiency or worse, total failure in replacing capitalism with a more humane economic system. I first argue that Effective Altruism and anti-capitalism are compatible in principle by looking at similarities between Effective Altruist theory and some Marxist writing. I then go on to show that the theoretic compatibility can be mirrored in practice. I demonstrate this by considering and replying to objections to anti-capitalism as they might be raised by Effective Altruists and by replying to objections to Effective Altruism as they might be raised by anti-capitalists. I conclude by suggesting that their reconciliation would lead to better outcomes from the perspective of a proponent of either view. In short, an "Anti-Capitalist Effective Altruism" is not just possible, it's preferable. Joshua Kissel Northwestern University Essays Philos (2017)18:1 | DOI: 10.7710/1526-0569.1573 Correspondence: email@example.com Essays in Philosophy Volume 18, Issue 1 Essays in Philosophy 2 | eP1573 Essays in Philosophy


Income is a major factor aff ecting the willingness to travel of rural residents. Against the background of increasing population aging, the level of tourism consumption of rural residents in China has become signifi cantly weaker than that of urban residents. To explore the upgrading paths of rural residents' tourism consumption, the infl uence mechanism of their income structure and population aging on tourism consumption was analyzed using a fi xed-eff ects model, randomeff ects model, and panel data of 30 provincial areas in China from 2010 to 2015. Results show that wage and operating income have signifi cant positive impacts on the tourism consumption of rural residents. However, property and transfer income, which are not the main sources of income among rural residents, have little eff ect on tourism consumption. The diff erent eff ects show signifi cant regional diff erences. In addition, population aging has a signifi cant negative moderating eff ect on the relationships between wage income and tourism consumption, and between operating income and tourism consumption. Findings provide a theoretical basis and decision-making reference for the government to formulate appropriate rural residents' income-increasing policies and optimize income structure policies.


New technologies have long been considered important to the development of modernism – especially theories of efficient form in Vorticism and Italian Futurism This thesis rethinks the relation between modernism and technology in the inter-war years. It uses the work of theorists of technology including Jacques Ellul, Martin Heidegger, Sigfried Gideon and Marshall McLuhan picking up a strand in inter-war modernism highlighting concerns about mechanicity and technologisation as overwhelming and somewhat malign forces. Ezra Pound's 'Machine Art' is influenced by the work of Francis Picabia but demonstrates crucial differences between their conceptions of technology. D. H. Lawrence's Women in Love is an early example of machine antipathy articulating fears about war and mechanistic mental processes. Henry Green's factory novel, Living, demonstrates the malign effects of organisational techniques on working-class lives, whilst Wyndham Lewis's novels Snooty Baronet and The Revenge for Love's protagonists with prosthetic legs satirise the systematic techniques used in warfare to control individuals, turning them into mechanised grotesques. Finally, Henry Green's Back enacts Marshall McLuhan's notion of man as servo-mechanism to the machine. The thesis concludes that some inter-war modernisms display an antipathy towards machine culture which transcends the simple machine, and critiques mechanistic systems which control human bodies and minds.


* Hines, Randall and Robert Lauterborn (2008). Print Matters: How to Write Great Advertising. Chicago, IL: Racom Communications Inc. pp. 223. * Swann, Patricia (2008). Cases in Public Relations Management. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Companies. pp. 388. A few months ago my local newspaper laid off more than fifty employees. It is a trend we have seen repeated across the country. Print advertising, and specifically newspaper advertising, is facing a crisis unlike any it has seen in decades. Despite all the doom and gloom, Randall Hines and Robert Lauterborn make a strong argument that print advertising has never been more relevant. "Why print?" Hines and Lauterborn write: Because it's the purest form of advertising - an idea given power visually and crafted to move people with words. If you don't have an idea, it shows. If you can't write, people know. You can't hide emptiness behind a mesmerizing glare of glitzy TV production or trade on the familiar voice of a spokesperson to make a connection for you. It's just you and the reader (p. 1). Hines and Lauterborn argue that technology has allowed us to skip or bypass TV ads. They state that print ads require our attention and that we use a different part of our brain when we read rather than when we simply observe. "Readers are active participants in the communication process, while TV viewers are passive" (p. 3). The book's chapters are arranged in a progressive fashion, with each new chapter's focus building on the preceding chapter. The chapters cover specific areas such as how to use visuals, use of headlines and sub heads, and how to select the proper font. Chapters also detail designing ads and developing ad campaigns as well as a chapter on legal and ethical issues. Each chapter ends with a brief recap and suggestions for further reading. The authors also have inserted throughout the book a series of brief copy blocks they call a "notepad." These notepads offer interesting advertising trivia, point out Web resources, or suggest exercises that can help students better understand the material. The writing style is clear, concise, and persuasive. The authors include examples of print ads throughout the book to illustrate their points. The book even includes a handy glossary of advertising terms at the end, plus a collection of classic "How To" essays by famous writers. Print Matters could be used as a supplemental text in a principles of advertising class or as a primary text in an advertising copywriting class. Its breezy, readable style should make it appealing to students. Most important, it should help professors reinforce the continued relevance of print ads in the ever-changing world of advertising. One of the emerging themes in advertising is the increasing emphasis on integrated marketing communication, combining traditional advertising methods with public relations and other persuasion tactics and techniques. Perhaps the most successful way to introduce students to public relations is through the use of case studies. A common challenge in teaching a public relations case studies course is that most textbooks feature only studies on successful cases. While learning the correct way to conduct a public relations campaign is important, an argument can certainly be made that we can learn even more from our failures than our successes. Patricia Swann, in Cases in Public Relations Management, presents both successful and unsuccessful public relations campaigns. Students are able to see the errors made by professionals and how each decision has consequences. Professor Swann writes in an accessible style sprinkled with spot on observations about the management responsibilities of public relation professionals and their crucial role in the business world. The book's opening chapter defines the role of public relations and how it relates to other disciplines. …


Smallholder farmers in sub‐Saharan Africa recurrently face situations of complex and dynamic decision trade‐offs. Short‐term‐oriented activities such as fertilizer application help to cover immediate food needs but compromise on future food production. Long‐term‐oriented production activities such as building up soil fertility are important systemic leverage points; however, they compromise on today's harvests. This article uses a semicomputerized observational experiment in Zambia to investigate farm management decision making with conflicting production objectives in a dynamic context. The results reveal that, overall, Zambian smallholder farmers have a strong and significant preference for short‐term‐oriented production activities, which leads to a suboptimal performance in production in the long term. A mind shift towards more long‐term‐oriented production activities is required to sustainably increase food production. Our findings point at two things in this regard: First, we identify decision rules that successful performers have applied and that should be the basis for capacity building strategies. Second, we indicate that our approach itself contributed to recognition of the importance of a longer term perspective.


The dissertation challenges one of the most distinctive features in traditional Chinese architecture, the bracket set known as dougong 斗栱, and discusses diverging stylistic variations that actually existed in Shanxi province 山西省 between the eleventh and nineteenth centuries against the background of official-style building. The key challenge was to see beyond the long lasting stereotypes in China that did not allow full acknowledgement of the wide range of corbelled clusters with bracket-arms projecting at acute or obtuse angles to the wall plane i.e. xiegong 斜栱, and the importance of such non-conformity. The scope of research was limited to the extant pool of timber structures in Shanxi officially designated as key national heritage conservation units between 1961 and 2006. Through visual and textual study and especially through on-site field work the author collected quantitative and qualitative data with regard to the possible containment of fan-shaped bracket sets, hereafter named shanshi dougong 扇式斗栱, and the tightly spaced, grid-like scepter bracketing known as ruyi dougong 如意斗栱. As a result, the thesis formulates the necessary nomenclature and appropriate methodology along with proper guidelines for discussing the rich pool of xiegong-architecture in the future. With special emphasis on the Jindongnan area in southeast Shanxi, it proves the highly flexible, underlying concept of yielding to different regional and local construction methods, and to environmental and economical conditions. Degree Type Dissertation Degree Name Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Graduate Group East Asian Languages & Civilizations First Advisor Dr. Nancy Shatzman Steinhardt Second Advisor Dr. Victor H. Mair Third Advisor Dr. Tracy Miller


We present an approach to performing alchemical binding free energies which we term coupled topologies. Simultaneously coupling a molecule in the bound state while decoupling it in the unbound state allows us to calculate free energy changes where the system changes charge, without the need to correct for simulation artifacts. This solves a longstanding problem in computing free energy changes. The approach is applied to separated topology relative binding free energy calculations, but is appropriate for single topology calculations and dual topology calculations as well as absolute binding free energy calculations. We apply the method to small-molecule inhibitors of AmpC β-lactamase and show the coupled topologies approach yields results that are in excellent agreement with experiment and good agreement with a state-of-the-art separated topology approach. The promising results on this test case suggest that the coupled topologies approach will be a useful addition to the available arsenal of free-energy methods.


A multidisciplinary study that includes processing of Landsat ETM+ satellite images, chemistry of gas condensed, mineralogy and chemistry of fumarolic deposits, and fluid inclusion data from native sulphur deposits, has been carried out in the Lastarria Volcanic Complex (LVC) with the objective to determine the distribution and characteristics of hydrothermal alteration zones and to establish the relations between gas chemistry and fumarolic deposits. Satellite image processing shows the presence of four hydrothermal alteration zones, characterized by a mineral assemblage constituted mainly by clay minerals, alunite, iron oxides, and more subordinated ferrous minerals and goethite. Hydrothermal alteration zones present in the Lastarria sensu stricto volcano are directly related to the recent fumarolic activity. Geochemistry of fumarolic gas condensed, obtained from two fumaroles at temperatures between 328 and 320 °C, has allowed detecting 37 diverse elements corresponding to halogens, chalcophiles, siderophiles, alkali metals, alkali earth metals and Rare Earth Elements (REE), with concentrations that vary widely between 5,620 ppm (chlorine) and 0.01 ppm (Mo, Ag, Sn, Pb, Se, Mg and Cr). Logarithm of Enrichment Factor (log EFi) for each element present values between 6.35 (iodine) and<1 (K, Na, Ca, Fe and Al). Those elements are originated primarily from a magmatic source, whereas at shallow level a hydrothermal source contributes typical rock-related elements, which are leached from the wall rock by a strong interaction with hyperacid fluids. Mostly of elements detected are transported to the surface in the fumarolic emissions as gaseous species, while very few elements (Mg, Ca and Al) are transported in silicate aerosols. A wide spectrum of minerals are present in the fumarolic deposits, which are constituted by sublimates and incrustations, and the main minerals phases are distributed in six mineral families, corresponding to sulphates, hydrated sulphates, sulphides, halides, carbonates, silicates and native element minerals. The sublimate/incrustation minerals are dominated by the presence of sulphate, sulphur, chlorine and diverse rock-related elements, which are formed by processes that include a. oxidation of gaseous phase; b. strong rock-fluid interaction; c. dissolution of silicate minerals and volcanic glass; d. gas-water interaction; e. deposition/precipitation of saline bearing minerals; f. oxidation of sublimates/incrustations to form secondary minerals and g. remobilization of sulphur deposits by meteoric water. Despite that sublimate/ incrustation minerals are dominated by rock-related elements, its chemistry shows high contents of high-volatile elements as As, Sb, Cd, among others. Fluid inclusions studies carried out in thin pseudobanded native sulphur from fumarolic deposits, by use of Raman and infrared spectroscopy combined with microthermometry analyses, provided evidence of H2O, CO2, H2S, SO4, COS bearing fluids, homogenization temperatures around 110 °C and salinities varying from ~11 to ~7 wt% NaCl. Fluid inclusions data show also evidences of a mixing (dilution) between hot and saline fluid with a cooler fluid (cold groundwater or a steam-heated water) as the main process.


Project 1. The role of NCAM in maintaining of the cytoskeleton-dependent structural
integrity of post-synaptic densities and regulation of the AMPA receptor recycling

Glutamatergic synapses with postsynaptic densities (PSD) of complex shape, often referred as perforated, have attracted attention due to the transient increase of their percentage following neural activity, such as induction of long-term potentiation. Moreover, they are often considered as morphological landmarks of synaptic remodelling
and increased synapse activation in brain pathologies. In spite of the fact that models of PSD perforation have been widely discussed, mechanisms inducing perforation of PSDs and the role of this structural rearrangement in PSD function are poorly understood. Cell adhesion molecules and associated cytoskeletal elements are likely to play an important role in such rearrangements. The neural cell adhesion molecule NCAM has been implicated in synaptic plasticity and recruits its binding partner spectrin to synaptic contacts providing an anchoring scaffold for synaptic proteins. We show that numbers of perforated synapses are increased in the CA1 stratum radiatum of the hippocampus of NCAM deficient (NCAM-/-) versus wild type (NCAM+/+) mice and in cultured NCAM-/- versus NCAM+/+ hippocampal neurons. Disruption of the spectrin meshwork in cultured NCAM+/+ hippocampal neurons by antimycin or latrunculin or by transfection with spectrin siRNA increases the percentage of perforated synapses in these neurons to the level seen in NCAM-/- neurons, suggesting that the NCAM-assembled spectrin cytoskeleton maintains structural integrity of PSD. We demonstrate that PSD perforations
contain endocytic zones involved in alfa-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methyl-4-isoxazolepropionic acid (AMPA) receptor internalisation. AMPA receptor internalisation in NCAM-/- neurons is increased by 30% compared to NCAM+/+ neurons indicating that the NCAM assembled postsynaptic spectrin scaffold is important for inhibition of AMPA receptor endocytosis. An abnormally high AMPA receptor endocytosis being accompanied by structural abnormalities in PSD may contribute to alterations in synaptic plasticity and brain pathologies associated with ablation or mutations in NCAM and spectrin genes.

Project 2. The role of the cell adhesion molecule close homologue of L1 (CHL1) in
regulation of clathrin-dependent synaptic vesicle recycling

Mutations in human analogue of murin CHL1 gene – CALL correlate with the occurrence of schizophrenia. Schizophrenia is a neuropsychiatric disorder associated with
abnormal neurocircuits and functioning of synapses. Although these findings suggest that
CHL1 regulates synapse functioning, the role of CHL1 in the organization of the synaptic
machinery has not been fully analysed. Pilot experiments show that CHL1 interacts with 70 kDa heat shock cognate protein (Hsc70) that is a constitutively expressed member of the heat shock inducible Hsp70 protein family. Hsc70 regulates uncoating of clathrin coated vesicles in the clathrin-dependent synaptic vesicles recycling pathway. In the present study, we were able to show that CHL1 localizes in axons where it recruits Hsc70 to the synaptic terminals. Numbers of clathrin coated vesicles were increased in synaptic terminals of CHL1-/- neurons suggesting that clathrin uncoating is slowed down under conditions of reduced levels of Hsc70. Conversely, activity-induced formation of clathrin-coated vesicles in response to high potassium stimulation was inhibited in CHL1-/- compared with CHL1+/+ synapses. This can suggest that reduced rates of clathrin coat release from CCSVs may result in lack of availability of essential coat proteins to form new CCSVs in an activity-dependent manner: clathrin, AP180, and AP2
could be trapped in CCSVs formed during previous cycles of neuronal activity, and would thus be unavailable to form new CCSVs. Hsc70 is still recruited into the synapses of CHL1-/- neurons probably via CSP, another vesicle Hsc70 binding protein. Levels of this protein are elevated in CHL1-/- mice. To overcome this compensatory mechanism we have loaded CHL1+/+ neurons with a HPD peptide, which competitively interferes with CHL1/Hsc70 interaction. Disruption of CHL1/Hsc70 interaction showed an even more pronounced effect than CHL1 deficiency itself. HPD peptide induced two-fold increase in the numbers of clathrin coated vesicles and 20% decrease in the number of synaptic vesicles in non-stimulated synapses, nearly completely blocked activity-induced CCSV formation and significantly inhibited activity-induced synaptic vesicle fusion. Our results demonstrate that deficiency in CHL1/Hsc70 interaction inhibits uncoating of CCSVs and thus slower processing of synaptic vesicles recycling. This can contribute to synapse disregulations contributing to a set of neuropsychiatric disorder including schizophrenia.


Hackgate is the biggest scandal to engulf the mainstream press in decades. What started as a small bush fire - with News of the World royal editor and his private detective friend Glenn Mulcaire being detained at Her Majesty's pleasure in 2007 for hacking illegally into the phones of the royal family and others - became a forest fire destroying countless reputations (and the NoW) in its wake. The first edition, published in February 2012, soon became the standard text on the Leveson Inquiry into the culture, practices and ethics of the British press. It was serialised over twenty five days in the Media Guardian and read by Lord Justice Leveson himself. This second edition updates the thirty original contributions and includes new material from Sir Harold Evans, Roy Greenslade and Ray Snoddy on Leveson and after. Other contributors include Chris Atkins, Steven Barnett, Patrick Barrow, Teodora Beleaga, Daniel Bennett, Damian Paul Carney, Brian Cathcart, Glenda Cooper, the Co-ordinating Committee for Media Reform, Tim Crook, Sean Dodson, Sallyanne Duncan, Chris Frost, Ivor Gaber, Tony Harcup, Phil Harding, Huw L. Hopkins, Mike Jempson, Nicholas Jones, John Lloyd, Tim Luckhurst, Kevin Marsh, Ben McConville, Jackie Newton, Eamonn O'Neill, Richard Peppiatt, Wayne Powell, Stewart Purvis, Alan Rusbridger, Justin Schlosberg, Kate Smith, Judith Townend, John Tulloch and Barry Turner. Edited by Richard Lance Keeble and John Mair, it is a 'must read' for all concerned about journalism standards and all involved in journalism and journalism education - either as teachers or students.


The Indian armed forces "liberation" of the small Portuguese colony of Goa in 1961 put an end to a fruitless diplomatic contest between New Delhi and Lisbon. The arguments used by each government to defend its right to Goa provide an interesting case study of how history can be used in an attempt to define a "people." Since few Goans were persuaded to make a stand on either side of this debate, this case indicates the limited power of nationalist rhetoric, and therefore the need for historians to look beyond such rhetoric to understand the formation of national identity.


Artistic museum intervention has become an established practice since late 1980s and has been used by museums as a curatorial and interpretive tool ever since. Exhibitions such as 'Uncomfortable Truths: The Shadow of Slave Trading on Contemporary Art' held at the V&A in London (February-June 2007), and 'Queering the Museum' at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (November 2010-February 2011) are recent testimonies of museums' welcoming approach towards invited artists' interventions. Author Miwon Kwon has described commissioning institutional interventions negatively as the museum's self-promotional tool and the resulting status of the artist as commodity. Prior to this, in his 1997 essay 'The Artist as Ethnographer?' Hal Foster described the artist's subjective engagement with institutions and communities as 'ethnographic self-fashioning'.  Whilst museums are engaging with its multi-cultural audience through events and activities, the potential of the artistic sub-altern voice in bringing both personal and global associations to the collections offers a non-monologic interpretive approach. This article, however, critically reflects upon the collaboration between ethnographic museums and artists from the diasporas as a method of displaying 'the other' or the work of the celebrity artist. It makes a case for a non-tokenistic and a more democratic process of intervening the museum, one that opens it up as a valuable and accessible site for fresh epistemological engagements by the artist with collections and their meanings.


Competition is intense among rival technologies, and success depends on predicting their future trajectory of performance. To resolve this challenge, managers often follow popular heuristics, generalizations, or "laws" such as Moore's law. We propose a model, Step And Wait (SAW), for predicting the path of technological innovation, and we compare its performance against eight models for 25 technologies and 804 technologies-years across six markets. The estimates of the model provide four important results. First, Moore's law and Kryder's law do not generalize across markets; neither holds for all technologies even in a single market. Second, SAW produces superior predictions over traditional methods, such as the Bass model or Gompertz law, and can form predictions for a completely new technology by incorporating information from other categories on time-varying covariates. Third, analysis of the model parameters suggests that (i) recent technologies improve at a faster rate than old technologies; (ii) as the number of competitors increases, performance improves in smaller steps and longer waits; (iii) later entrants and technologies that have a number of prior steps tend to have smaller steps and shorter waits; but (iv) technologies with a long average wait time continue to have large steps. Fourth, technologies cluster in their performance by market.


When producing test inputs for a program, test generators (łfuzzersž) can greatly profit from grammars that formally describe the language of expected inputs. In recent years, researchers thus have studiedmeans to recover input grammars from programs and their executions. The GLADE algorithm by Bastani et al., published at PLDI 2017, was the first blackbox approach to claim context-free approximation of input specification for non-trivial languages such as XML, Lisp, URLs, and more. Prompted by recent observations that the GLADE algorithm may show lower performance than reported in the original paper, we have reimplemented the GLADE algorithm from scratch. Our evaluation confirms that the effectiveness score (F1) reported in the GLADE paper is overly optimistic, and in some cases, based on the wrong language. Furthermore, GLADE fares poorly in several real-world languages evaluated, producing grammars that spend megabytes to enumerate inputs. CCS Concepts: · Security and privacy → Software reverse engineering; · Software and its engineering→ Software maintenance tools; Parsers.


Formerly the classic center of gravity for the world of work, the workplace as such is now losing its formative influence. It was on the workplace that instruments of social standardization were previously fixed. Work is becoming more flexible in time and more mobile in space; work forms are becoming more multilayered; CVs are looking increasingly more discontinuous. As new time-space relations emerge, new principles of action for dealing with social standardization are necessary. A joint trade union venture known as the multimedia + workworld bureau has already launched a number of experiments:work operations organized in keeping with the principles of management by objectives;an advisory service for questions relating to telework;the operation of a virtual network of experts;the development of benchmarks for matters of in-company data protection;ideas for supplementing the traditional instruments of social standardization.


In recent years the need for informal home care in European countries is growing quickly due to increased life expectancy and demographic change. Informal caregivers have to overcome many obstacles ranging from a lack of adequate training to misjudging their physical and psychological abilities. The aim of this project is to create a low cost wearable device, which unobtrusively measures the physical stress load on caregivers. Two parameters with the most impact on performance and well-being of the caregiver have been identified: (i) fatigue and (ii) back-stress. Based on the measurements, an alert is issued if caregivers are not performing a task correctly, or if they are overexerting themselves. This paper discusses the design of such device and description of an initial prototype, its advantages and possible further development and applications.


We propose the multiresponse sparse regression algorithm, an input selection method for the purpose of estimating several response variables. It is a forward selection procedure for linearly parameterized models, which updates with carefully chosen step lengths. The step length rule extends the correlation criterion of the least angle regression algorithm for many responses. We present a general concept and explicit formulas for three different variants of the algorithm. Based on experiments with simulated data, the proposed method competes favorably with other methods when many correlated inputs are available for model construction. We also study the performance with several real data sets.


SYNOPSIS The effect of two formulations of hexazinone at two rates with two application methods (1,5 m wide strip and total area) on fynbos were tested in a one-year-old Pinus radiata stand. Total manual weeding and mechanical ring weeding of one metre radius were added as experiment treatments to obtain 10 treatments. Tree height and diameter growth were monitored to determine the effect of weed control. After 13 months the liquid formulation of hexazinone was significantly better than the powder formulation. There were no significant differences between the two application methods. The higher herbicide rates showed better weed suppression than the lower rates although non-significantly so. Floristic surveys conducted over a three-year period indicated satisfactory weed suppression. Plant moisture stress measurements in the first three summers (dry season) after application indicated that the trees were not under water stress.


The aim of the study was to compare the lung sounds in patients with asbestos related pulmonary disorders with findings in high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT), and with lung function variables, in order to find out associations of acoustic changes with radiological fibrosis, emphysema or with pulmonary gas transfer functions. Sixty-four patients with asbestos-related pleural disease, with or without pulmonary disease, were studied. Lung sound recording and analysis was carried out with a computerized lung sound analyser, and HRCT of the chest, as well as forced spirometry and diffusing capacity measurement were performed. The fibrosis score correlated positively with the quartile frequencies of the power spectrum of lung sounds in inspiration (f50) and expiration (f50) and crackle count in inspiration, as well as negatively with diffusing capacity. When the patients with crackling sounds and significant fibrosis were excluded (n=18), emphysema correlated negatively with expiratory quartile frequencies of the power spectrum, with f25 and f50. Furthermore, diffusing capacity correlated with inspiratory f25 and forced expiratory volume in one second with inspiratory f50 when crackles and fibrosis were excluded. Changes in lung sounds were significantly associated with radiologically verified abnormalities and gas transfer of pulmonary tissue. High sound frequencies were associated with fibrotic changes of the lung while low sound frequencies with pulmonary emphysema. Acoustic analysis gives complementary clinical information for evaluation of asbestos-related pulmonary disorders.


Lipids are heterogeneous biological molecules with many important roles. In human body, lipids can be energy substrates, steroid hormones, inflammatory lipid mediators, transporters, and feature as structural cell and organelle membrane elements. At the cell membrane, lipids influence the distribution of surface proteins and, in part, protein signaling and, consequently, the activation of transcriptional factors. One of the best explored relationships in chemistry and science is the structure/activity one. Therefore, if the composition of a mixture is discovered and the structure of its components is known, a task of proposing relationship among all components and their activity would be closer to understanding. There are many powerful and advantageous analytical and bioanalytical tools available for the study of lipids, but all show at least some limitations. Knowing the advantages/disadvan-tages of each technique is essential for choosing the most appropriate one for the analysis as to answer a scientific question about lipid composition and role within a biological model. Often, inexperience and little familiarity with the cited analytical resources may limit the validity of the obtained results. Our chapter aims to present and discuss different tools available for the study of lipids and their main applications in biological assays.


Abstract Former studies show that the coarse particle plays a very important role in the determination of the yield stress of fluid-solid mixtures such as debris flows. The characteristics of the coarse particle in these mixtures include particle size, gradation, shape, and type of material. To assess the influence of these coarse particles on the yield stress the concept of equivalent volumetric solid concentration C is introduced. The equivalent concentration can be derived from the volumetric solid concentration by considering the particle size, gradation, shape, and type of material. Laboratory experiments to determine the yield stress of various mixtures were conducted to calibrate the coefficients of these coarse particle characteristics. A yield stress phenomenological expression is proposed using the refined volumetric solid concentration (equivalent concentration), which could be calibrated by the experiments in this study. The validation of this phenomenological expression with data from literature shows good agreements, especially for higher volumetric concentrations of the sediments.


Background and Objectives: In cells exposed to environmental stress, inhibition of translation initiation conserves energy for the repair of cellular damage. Untranslated mRNAs that accumulate in these cells move to discrete cytoplasmic foci known as stress granules (SGs). The assembly of SGs helps cells to survive under adverse environmental conditions. SGs are formed as a consequence of eIF2α phosphorylation that inhibits translation initiation. However, this is not the sole mechanism by which SGs are assembled. Some compounds inhibit translation and induce SG formation via the interaction with eIF4A. During oxidative stress conditions, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels increase dramatically causing a significant alteration in cell metabolism including protein synthesis. The most stable form of the ROS is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which was found to inhibit protein synthesis in different types of cells. The objective of our study is to analyze the mechanism by which H2O2-induced oxidative stress inhibits translation initiation and induces SG assembly in mammalian cells. Methods: Cells were treated with different concentrations of H2O2 and then fixed, stained with SG markers, and visualized using fluorescence microscopy to quantify SGs. To test the effect of oxidative stress treatment on eIF4F complex formation we pulled down the eIF4F complex from lysates of SA or H2O2- treated U2OS cells using m7GTP-Sepharose. Results: H2O2 inhibits translation and induces the assembly of SGs. The assembly of H2O2-induced SGs is independent of the phosphorylation of eIF2α, a major trigger of SG assembly, but requires remodeling of the cap-binding eIF4F complex. Moreover, H2O2-induced SGs are compositionally distinct from canonical SGs, and targeted knockdown of eIF4E, a protein required for canonical translation initiation, inhibits H2O2-induced SG assembly. Conclusions: In conclusion, our data suggest that mammalian cells can assemble different types of SGs utilizing different mechanisms. These different routes of assembly are stress-specific and dictate recruitment of selective SG constituents. In analogy to amino acid starvation-induced SGs that selectively sequester mRNAs bearing 5'-terminal oligopyrimidine tracts, we propose that different classes of SGs selectively recruit specific mRNAs from translating ribosomes. In turn, this selective mRNA re-localization causes stress-specific changes in protein translation allowing adaptation to stress conditions.


Sustainability is about ensuring that current and future generations have equal access to resources and a quality of life that provides long-term economic security at the same time as safeguarding the natural and cultural environment. Using a process of sustainable development (SD) it is possible to formulate management tools and planning strategies to change and direct industrial or human activities that are contrary to sustainability. SD requires unified responses to guide this process through a new set of customs and practice, and achieve acceptance and changes in the behavior and actions of individuals and organisations. The outcomes of SD will be determined by the human response to sustainability, which is in part a cultural response.

Culture has a duality of meaning in every day use. It is either the value system that shapes the aspirations, identity and attitudes of individuals and groups; or the 'way of life' for a particular group of people who are drawn together through customs, religion, language, arts, science or technology. Culture has principles in common with sustainability by bestowing upon current generations cultural heritage and identity, as well as responsibility for safeguarding future cultural diversity and ecological balance. This thesis suggests that cultural values are a key to sustainability and that deliberate strategies and criteria are needed for the arts and creative industries to assist SD. The idea that culture is central to SD is based on the fact that sustainability is a concept whereas culture is a human value system and a way of life.

Using the concept of 'cultural capital', this thesis identifies a framework that can guide and report both the tangible economic and physical outcomes and the intangible benefits that occur through artistic and cultural activity. Tangible outcomes include artists, buildings and creative products while intangible benefits lead to cultural identity, diversity and a sense of place. It is then suggested that if a framework based on cultural capital were applied to SD, such a process would be called 'culturally' sustainable development. The idea of culturally sustainable development (CSD) is explored in academic and business literature, and in the practical examples of existing action found in the Western Australian arts and cultural community.

Based on this intelligence, strategies are identified to provide the next steps for developing the concept and practice of CSD. Strategies call for government, business and the arts to have equal responsibility for mainstreaming the concepts of CSD and cultural capital, and encourage CSD activities and projects. At the implementation level, strategies focus on developing a universal framework for CSD, incorporating Creative Action Plans or creative business plans, along with a CSD Index, and a creative cluster approach to project management or industry development. CSD is about investing creatively in sustainability through cultural capital, the new growth stock of SD.


This brief paper addresses some of the issues that surround rBST use on United States (U.S.) dairy farms 5 years after its commercial availability. Specifically, the focus of our inquiry is on two fundamental issues. First, has this technology been profitable and productive at the farm level? And, second, has it changed the competitive position of adopters vis-à-vis nonadopters? While it would appear that rBST is an effective technology for increasing milk production and would also appear to be an economically feasible technology, the conclusions of the few ex post studies available seem to give mixed results. Is profitability truly lacking for this technology, and if so why? How do we reconcile this potentially lackluster performance at the farm level with all the accumulated experimental evidence and our economic models? Is Monsanto extracting all of the innovation rents and, if so, is this optimal (even for Monsanto)? These are some key questions that beg for further economic analysis.


The multi-level fast multipole method (MLFMM) for a higher order (HO) discretization is demonstrated on high-frequency (HF) problems, illustrating for the first time how an efficient MLFMM for HO can be achieved even for very large groups. Applying several novel ideas, beneficial to both lower order and higher order discretizations, results from a low-memory, high-speed MLFMM implementation of a HO hierarchical discretization are shown. These results challenge the general view that the benefits of HO and HF-MLFMM cannot be combined.


Section 307 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act authorizes the SEC to prescribe "minimum standards of professional conduct" for attorneys "appearing or practicing" before it. This brief statutory provision frames a much larger question: What is the role of the corporate attorney in securities transactions in the public markets? Is the attorney's role that of (a) an advocate, (b) a transaction cost engineer, or, more broadly, (c) a gatekeeper - that is, a reputational intermediary with some responsibility to monitor the accuracy of corporate disclosures? The bar has long divided over this question, with the bar associations resisting any such obligation. Yet, Section 307 now "federalizes" this issue. Skeptics of a gatekeeper role for attorneys have long argued that (a) such a role conflicts with the traditional obligations of loyalty that the attorney owe their clients; and (b) imposing gatekeeping obligations on attorneys will chill attorney/client communications and thereby reduce law compliance. Thus, they have resisted a pending SEC proposal that would require an attorney to make a "noisy withdrawal" when the attorney is unable to stop or prevent certain ongoing material violations of law by the corporate client. This comment examines these arguments that attorneys make inferior gatekeepers and replies that (i) securities attorneys can and do perform a "gatekeeping" function; (ii) the differences between attorneys and auditors are less fundamental than bar associations maintain; (iii) in some respects, it is easier to impose gatekeeper obligations on attorneys than on auditors; and (iv) imposing such obligations on attorney should neither chill socially desirable client communications nor reduce the attorney's influence over the client (and probably will increase that leverage). Finally, this comments examines specific standards and obligations that the SEC might adopt to recognize the securities attorney's role as a gatekeeper. Going beyond the narrow "noisy withdrawal" issue, it proposes both limited certification and independence standards.


SHELLEY'S EYE: TRAVEL WRITING AND AESTHETIC VISION. By Benjamin Colbert. Aldershot: Ashgate, 2005. Pp. ix + 259. ISBN: 0 7546 0485 3. £45.00. Percy Bysshe Shelley was just one of the many sightseers who poured into Europe after Napoleon's 1814 defeat, and his nomadic wanderings throughout the continent in the ensuing years might even be seen as a kind of extended Grand Tour. It might be disconcerting to think of the great poet as a mere tourist, but, strangely enough, he does exhibit some of the familiar vices of the foreign holiday-maker. On the one hand, he is inclined towards faintly embarrassing professions of love for countries of which he knows little: 'We are all Greeks', 'Thou paradise of exiles, Italy!'. On the other, he has an unfortunate tendency to bad-mouth the locals (Italians are described as 'odious' in an 1818 letter to Hogg), to look down his nose at other tourists and to surround himself with English ex-pats. More seriously, we might say that Shelley's travel writings also share the impossible dream of tourists everywhere, namely to experience something authentically foreign: the 'real' France or Italy where the tourists supposedly never go. In Benjamin Colbert's thoughtful study, it is precisely this quest for an authentic vision of Europe that characterises 'Shelley's eye'. Colbert offers the first major analysis of Shelley's travel writings - particularly the neglected History of a Six Weeks' Tour - as well as the poet's extensive reading of contemporary travel literature. As the scope of his book makes clear, however, this is no mere travelogue but a far more ambitious attempt to situate the poet's own writings on travel within the context of travel and touristic discourse more widely. It is Colbert's thesis that Shelley's travel writings are carefully positioned between two competing visions of European travel as the Napoleonic Wars ended and the era of mass tourism began. On the one side, they valorise European travel as the means for recovering a civilised or cultivated poetic subjectivity in the post-revolutionary age. On the other, they distance themselves from the populist tourist aesthetic that enabled the more prosaic classes to experience continental travel for the first time. Perhaps more ambitiously, Colbert argues that Shelley's travel literature also participates in contemporary philosophical debates about aesthetics and perception: 'Shelley's eye' signifies the way in which all perception and expression - not simply aesthetic or touristic discourse - is implicated in the cultural conditioning of the age. For Colbert, Shelley's visionary travel poetry constantly seeks an 'alternative cultural space for authentic aesthetic vision' which squares the circle of aesthetic detachment and cultural and political locatedness. It must be said that this is a serious and exhaustively researched book that will be of obvious interest to anyone working in the field of Romantic travel writing. As the voluminous footnotes indicate, Colbert is immersed not only in Shelley's own travel writing but Romantic travel writing more generally and he uncovers some genuinely fresh material on such figures as Birkbeck, Eaton and Eustace in what is increasingly well-trodden ground. More impressively still, this is an ambitious and interdisciplinary study that constantly seeks to link the metaphor of the European Grand Tour to the main currencies of Romantic thought from Rousseau and Burke to Wollstonecraft, Wordsworth and Byron. Yet this attempt to demonstrate the applicability of Shelley's travel writing and travel discourse more generally to wider Romantic questions of poetics, aesthetics and politics yields mixed results. …


Mutual modelling, the reciprocal ability to establish a mental model of the other, plays a fundamental role in human interactions. This complex cognitive skill is however difficult tofully apprehend as it encompasses multiple neuronal, psychological and social mechanisms that are generally not easily turned into computational models suitable for robots.This article presents several perspectives on mutual modelling from a range of disciplines, and reflects on how these perspectives can be beneficial to the advancement of social cognition in robotics. Wegather here both basic tools (concepts, formalisms, models) and exemplary experimental settings and methods that are of relevance to robotics.This contribution is expected to consolidate the corpus of knowledge readily available to human-robot interaction research, and to foster interest for this fundamentally crossdisciplinary field.


Computing limits is a fundamental task in mathematics and different mathematical concepts are defined in terms of limit computations. Among these mathematical concepts, we are interested in three different types of limit computations: first, computing the limit points of solutions of polynomial systems represented by regular chains, second, computing tangent cones of space curves at their singular points which can be viewed as computing limit of secant lines, and third, computing the limit of real multivariate rational functions. For computing the limit of solutions of polynomial systems represented by regular chains, we present two different methods based on Puiseux series expansions and linear changes of coordinates. The first method, which is based on Puiseux series expansions, addresses the problem of computing real and complex limit points corresponding to regular chains of dimension one. The second method studies regular chains under changes of coordinates. It especially computes the limit points corresponding to regular chains of dimension higher than one for some cases. we consider strategies where these changes of coordinates can be either generic or guided by the input. For computing the Puiseux parametrizations corresponding to regular chains of dimension one, we rely on extended Hensel construction (EHC). The Extended Hensel Construction is a procedure which, for an input bivariate polynomial with complex coefficients, can serve the same purpose as the Newton-Puiseux algorithm, and, for the multivariate case, can be seen as an effective variant of Jung-Abhyankar Theorem. We show that the EHC requires only linear algebra and univariate polynomial arithmetic. We deduce complexity estimates and report on a software implementation together with experimental results. We also outline a method for computing the tangent cone of a space curve at any of its points. We rely on the theory of regular chains and Puiseux series expansions. Our approach is novel in that it explicitly constructs the tangent cone at arbitrary and possibly irrational points without using a standard basis. We also present an algorithm for determining the existence of the limit of a real multivariate rational function q at a given point which is an isolated zero of the denominator of q. When the limit exists, the algorithm computes it, without making any assumption on the number of variables. A process, which extends the work of Cadavid, Molina and Velez, reduces the multivariate setting to computing limits of bivariate rational functions. By using regular chain theory and triangular decomposition of semi-algebraic systems, we avoid the computation of singular loci and the decomposition of algebraic sets into irreducible components.


Abstract The Capitanian (middle Permian) extinction and recovery event is examined in carbonate platform settings from western Tethys (Hungary and Hydra, Greece). The age model for these sections is poorly resolved and we have constructed a &dgr;13C chemostratigraphic correlation scheme, supported by conodont and foraminifer data, which attempts correlation with the well-dated events in China. This reveals the timing of events was similar in all Tethyan regions: extinction losses in the middle of the Capitanian produced late Capitanian assemblages in Hungary and Hydra with a distinctive late Permian character (for example, they lack large fusulinaceans). There is no evidence for an extinction event at the end of the Guadalupian (Capitanian) suggesting that previous claims for an end-Guadalupian mass extinction are based on poorly dated records of a mid-Capitanian event. Base level was stable through much of the middle–late Permian transition with the exception of a major regression within the Capitanian Stage. The subsequent transgression established widespread shallow-water carbonate deposition, such as the Episkopi Formation in Hydra and the Nagyvisnyó Limestone Formation in Hungary.


The shallow depth of focus in conventional light microscopy hinders the observation of the whole image when the object is thicker than the depth of field. Most of the existing techniques measured the object distance, which is not necessarily the actual distance of each pixel in the image. We implemented a means of determining the "best focus" of each pixel and located the height of object points by sectioning at different sample heights. Combining the height information and its gray values together, we obtained an image where the blur from the finite depth of focus is eliminated. Limitations of the technique are discussed together with composed images.ed images.


PURPOSE
To determine longitudinally the rate of change in diffusion-tensor imaging (DTI) parameters of white matter microstructure with aging and to investigate whether cardiovascular risk factors influence this longitudinal change.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
This prospective population-based cohort study was approved by a dedicated ethics committee overseen by the national government, and all participants gave written informed consent. Community-dwelling participants without dementia were examined by using a research-dedicated 1.5-T magnetic resonance (MR) imager on two separate visits that were, on average, 2.0 years apart. Among 810 persons who were eligible for imaging at baseline, longitudinal imaging data were available for 501 persons (mean age, 69.9 years; age range, 64.1-91.1 years). Changes in normal-appearing white matter DTI characteristics in the tract centers were analyzed globally to investigate diffuse patterns of change and then locally by using voxelwise multilinear regression. The influence of cardiovascular risk factors was assessed by treating them as additional determinants in both analyses.

RESULTS
Over the 2.0-year follow-up interval, global fractional anisotropy (FA) decreased by 0.0042 (P < .001), while mean diffusivity (MD) increased by 8.1 × 10(-6) mm(2)/sec (P < .001). Voxelwise analysis of the brain white matter skeleton showed an average decrease of 0.0082 (Pmean = .002) in FA in 57% of skeleton voxels. The sensorimotor pathway, however, showed an increase of 0.0078 (Pmean = .009) in FA. MD increased by 10.8 × 10(-6)mm(2)/sec (Pmean < .001) on average in 79% of white matter skeleton voxels. Additionally, white matter degeneration was more pronounced in older persons. Cardiovascular risk factors were generally not associated with longitudinal changes in white matter microstructure.

CONCLUSION
Longitudinal diffusion analysis indicates widespread microstructural deterioration of the normal-appearing white matter in normal aging, with relative sparing of sensorimotor fibers.


Background:Previous research has demonstrated an increase in carotid intima–media thickness (cIMT) in HIV-infected individuals compared to controls. However, the reason for this increased level of subclinical vascular disease is unknown. Objective:To identify HIV-related risk factors for increased cIMT. Methods:We evaluated the relationship between HIV-related characteristics (including markers of HIV disease severity and use of antiretroviral therapy) and cIMT measurements in the internal/bulb and common carotid regions among 538 HIV-infected participants from the Study of Fat Redistribution and Metabolic Change in HIV Infection (FRAM). We used Bayesian model averaging to estimate the posterior probability of candidate HIV and non-HIV-related risk factors being true predictors of increased cIMT. Variables with a posterior probability of more than 50% were used to develop a selected regression model for each of the anatomic regions. Results:For common cIMT, the Bayesian model selection process identified age, African-American race, and systolic and diastolic blood pressure with probability more than 95%, HDL cholesterol with probability 85% and Hispanic ethnicity with probability 51%. Among the HIV-related factors included in the analysis, only tenofovir use was selected (51% probability). In the selected model, duration of tenofovir use was associated with lower common cIMT (−0.0094 mm/year of use; 95% confidence interval: −0.0177 to −0.0010). For internal cIMT, no HIV-related risk factors were above the 50% posterior probability threshold. Conclusion:We observed an inverse association between duration of tenofovir use and common carotid cIMT. Whether this association is causal or due to confounding by indication needs further investigation.


Background: South Asian communities are increasing in the UK and there is a significant growth of this population from the 2001 and 2011 Censuses. In Brent and Leicester more than 30% of the population are from a South Asian background. South Asian men make a significant proportion of this population (Office for National Statistics (2012). In general men's health is under-researched and there is little research that focuses on the health of men from ethnic minorities in the UK. The sexual health of men is well researched particularly in the field of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) but this largely focuses on men who have sex with men and there is little UK research that examines the issues surrounding the sexual health of men in the South Asian community. This thesis focuses on producing a better understanding of South Asian men's perspectives on sexual health through participatory research and dialogue. Methods: A South Asian men's participatory action research group (PAR) was established to collectively explore South Asian men's sexual health in Brent; followed by ten semi-structured and five in-depth one-to-one interviews with South Asian men in Leicester. The data from the three phases was thematically analysed using a qualitative descriptive method and key themes identified in relation to the perspectives of South Asian men towards sexual health. . Findings: This study uncovered deep seated cultural and religious issues that are important for those working in the field of men's sexual health to understand. The themes emerging from the data highlighted that talking about sexual health carries connotations of stigma and shame that are largely associated with non-acceptance 4 of homosexuality and what South Asian communities consider to be western or 'white' liberal culture. Generational differences and the strong influence of first generation immigrants and religious leaders emphasised the theme of shame and stigma. Misconceptions about what is meant by sexual health were evident, with participants focusing on infection and promiscuity rather than health and suggesting that culturally sensitive information was lacking. Themes focused on how services could be more accessible and culturally acceptable also focused on the need to 'be private and discreet' and to some degree 'hidden' to prevent stigma and shame. Conclusion: South Asian men's sexual health cannot be understood without understanding the wider local South Asian community which encompasses religious and cultural influences which impact South Asian men's perspectives on sexual health. These perspectives have been shaped by cultural and geographic origins, patterns of migration, religious and family expectations, generational and marital status. These issues result in a lack of engagement amongst South Asian men and sexual health services. The findings of this study suggest that services should target South Asian men at an individual, cultural community and service level to build trust and provide services that are accessible and culturally acceptable. There is also a need to create greater understanding about the nature of sexual health and align it with men's health issues more generally. Establishing forums and creating information sources that facilitate open discussion among men in South Asian communities to de-stigmatise sexual health would also assist in reducing stigma.


Introduction Africans and African Americans share an ancient and vital history disrupted by the forces of social change manifest in the institution of slavery as exercised in the West and colonialism imposed on the African Continent. The institutions, values and belief systems, cultural and social artifacts, and mores that evolved from these conditions have been the subject of much discussion, research, speculation, and investigation. The dynamics of social change are inevitable, dramatic, incremental or gradual and yet always rearranging the perspective from which persons endorse values, develop belief systems, establish relationships, and attribute meaning to socio-political environments. Social change has been defined as "the significant alteration of social structure ... including consequences and manifestations of such structure embodied in norms ... values, and cultural products and symbols" (Moore 1967, 3). Changes in the boundaries of the social system, changes in the prescribed actions and the particular relationship of the system to its environment are concomitants of social change. An understanding of attitudes and values is instructive in making assessments about the direction of social change. Social movements serve as important indicators of the direction and thrust of social change by demonstrating specific forms of collective behavior. Social change is difficult to measure due to its pervasiveness, however, the time element or rate of transformation provides dramatic evidence of changes in any particular society. In order to discuss social change, it is necessary to understand social conditions, the quality of life of a people including income and poverty, participation and alienation, health and illness, art and science, public order and safety, social mobility and status rewards. These social indicators are useful for understanding the presence or extent of social change and its impact on a community. The twentieth century witnessed dramatic and accelerated technological changes including expansive television programs that obliterated national boundaries, computerization processes with the Internet that ushered in an unprecedented era of accessible information and globalization with world markets and global lenders. The urbanization of cities of the world has resulted in changes in work patterns with major industries moving from production of goods to the production of services and peoples' changing attitudes toward work. The disruption of family life appears to have accelerated with the diminution of extended family contacts as people moved to cities seeking jobs, increased income and individuality, but often-finding joblessness, isolation, and alienation that strained and frequently fractured the linkages to family members in remote areas. Hall (1984, 354) uses the concept of a historical 'vector' to explain Perhaps the most profound contributions of current use of this concept come in consideration of the impact on the Black historical experience of the forces ushering in the most recent Urban/Industrial period, and the great migration in which nearly the whole Black community was uprooted and displaced to an entirely new setting ... Aside from the process of enslavement itself the urban migration may constitute the single most disruptive phase of the Black experience. Wholesale reinterpretations of self-concept, social, and cultural sensibility in the consciousness of Blacks are traceable to displacement and reassembly of Black communities from predominantly rural, agriculturally based realities to predominantly urban, industrially based ones. Social change also encompasses political change with shifting power dimensions and major social movements that included the 1960s civil rights movements in the US where African Americans demanded change in the racial, political, educational and economic oppression suffered for generations. The earlier years of the 1950s and 1960s witnessed the Nationalist and Pan-African revolutions on the African continent that rejected the stranglehold of colonialism and fought for independence as sovereign nations. …


In a time of ubiquitous and permanent access to the internet made available to more and more people, emergent research has focused on audiences' practices to disconnect from the internet, to go offline and to remove their presence and visibility from online spaces. Connectivity being a central element of 'social media logic', disconnecting has been analyzed particularly in relation to social networking sites. In this paper, we aim at tracking people's practices of connecting and disconnecting in relation to their life course. The life course approach enables the researcher to account for change and complexity. Our study thus analyses trajectories that are understood as sequences of roles and experiences incorporating social context and individual variation. We base the analysis of these trajectories on the principle of agency, where people construct their own life course through daily choices and practices within the limits and opportunities of given historical and social circumstances. It is important to understand the differences in touchpoints with technology and the difference in affordances at each life stage. This could serve as a basis for the definition of better policies towards Internet use in schools, companies and society at large, to better frame the right to connect and disconnect. In this paper, we present results from a mixed-method exploratory study, conducted in Portugal, that sought to map intentions and tactics that users of the internet develop to build offline spaces where internet access or the use of online services is suspended.


In a model where two firms' products are di¤erentiated both, horizontally and vertically, introduction of a quality standard affects equilibrium quality levels of both firms. The effects, furthermore, depend upon consumers being or not perfectly informed about qualities. Qualities are strategic substitutes and under perfect information only non-innocuous standards, i.e. above the lowest quality in an unregulated equilibrium, change the equilibrium. However, the average quality in the market may go down due to the standard, and total consumers welfare decrease. Under uncertainty, even apparently innocuous standards, below the lowest unregulated equilibrium quality, may alter the equilibrium quality choices.


Background and significance COPD exacerbations are associated with significant morbidity, mortality, and substantial healthcare cost. The eosinophilic phenotype of COPD has been demonstrated to respond better to corticosteroids thus providing better clinical outcomes. This review aims to elucidate further the correlation between blood eosinophilia and outcomes in hospitalised patients with COPD exacerbations. Methods We systematically searched published and unpublished literature for potential studies that fulfilled our eligibility criteria. Inclusion criteria include any cohort (prospective or retrospective), case-control or randomised trials that looked into the association of blood eosinophilia and outcomes in hospitalised COPD exacerbation patients. The primary study outcome was length of hospitalisation; other outcomes include readmission and mortality rate within 1 year, in-patient mortality, and need for mechanical ventilation. An extensive eligibility, methodological and risk of bias assessments were performed independently by two authors adhering to the MOOSE and Cochrane standards. Results Six studies, with a total of 7293 patients, were included in the review. Five are retrospective cohorts and one is a retrospective analysis of a subgroup of a randomised trial. Patients with blood eosinophilia had significantly shorter hospital stay compared to non-eosinophilic patients (mean difference 0.68 days [95% CI: 1.09, 0.27]). Eosinophilic patients had significantly less frequent readmissions (odds ratio/OR 0.69 [95% CI: 0.55, 0.87]) but there was no statistically significant difference in the 1-year mortality rate (OR 0.88 [95% CI: 0.73, 1.06]). Analysis showed a trend toward lower in-patient mortality among eosinophilic patients, although this difference is not statistically significant (OR 0.53 [95% CI: 0.27, 1.05]). Furthermore, COPD patients with eosinophilia had significantly less need for mechanical ventilation during an exacerbation (OR 0.56 [95% CI: 0.35, 0.89]). Only the primary outcome was significantly heterogenous. Conclusions COPD patients with blood eosinophilia had significantly shorter hospital stay, less frequent readmissions, and are less likely to require mchanical ventilation compared to the non-eosinophilic phenotype. Abstract P143 Figure 1


Chlorine atoms are powerful atmospheric oxidants known to degrade air quality.
Despite much focus, a direct measurement technique does not exist. Instead, chlorine
atom precursors are used as proxies to study chlorine atom chemistry. Reactions of
precursors resulting in chlorine atoms studied in outdoor environments are also possible
indoors. Daily household activities, especially those involving chlorinated cleaning
products, are suspected to contribute to indoor chlorine atom chemistry. Indoor air studies
are hindered by sampling techniques, as few appropriate instruments exist. A common
atmospheric measurement technique was evaluated while monitoring gas and particulate
phase species emitted during indoor bleach use. This instrument collects a non-selective
gaseous and a particulate chloride sample. Recent advances in indoor instrumentation
allow for selective measurement of chlorine atom precursor, hydrogen chloride (HCl),
using a cavity-ring down spectroscopy instrument. Present ubiquitously outdoors,
atmospheric HCl is a result of direct emission and secondary production. Previous
measurements of HCl indoors are rare and have been limited to non-residential buildings
using integrated sampling. This sampling strategy does not provide the source of HCl
emissions. In order to better understand sources of HCl indoors, real-time gas-phase
mixing ratios of HCl during typical household activities were monitored such as floor
exposure to bleach, detergent use in household dishwashers, and cooking events. Based
on calculated rates of chlorine atom precursors, both photolysis and direct emission could
be contributing to elevated HCl levels indoors. This work presents insights regarding HCl
production and the influence of household activities on indoor air quality.


This paper explains the importance and benefits for Libyan companies of engaging in corporate social responsibility disclosure (CSRD). Libya, as a developing country, was chosen by the researchers as it has undergone many changes over a short period of time in terms of economic, environmental and social changes. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to collect data relating to CSRD in Libyan companies. Perceptions of financial managers interviewed as part of the study reveal that CSRD is important for company performance. The paper reveals that CSRD in the annual reports is very important in terms of attaining company objectives to: satisfy the interests of stakeholders; protect employees' interests; clarify the extent of contribution of the company in both CSR activities and CSRD; and assisting investors to make appropriate investment decisions. The perceived primary benefits of CSRD were enhanced company reputation, and increased financial performance. It also improves ability to attract foreign investors, and results in higher consumer satisfaction leading to commercial benefits. Secondary benefits include demonstration of compliance with the law and improved employee commitment.


The Michigan Tech Transportation Institute (MTTI) and Michigan Tech Research Institute (MTRI), in cooperation with the Center for Automotive Research (CAR) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), have completed research that investigates the use of remote sensing technologies to assess and monitor the condition of bridge infrastructure. This study was funded largely by the USDOT Research and Innovative Technology Administration as part of an effort to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of bridge inspection, repair, and rehabilitation efforts. Remote sensing technologies were correlated with in-place sensors and traditional inspection methods to obtain bridge condition assessment data and evaluate them as part of an integrated decision support environment to move them toward practical use in structural health monitoring. As part of the overall effort, CAR researchers conducted an evaluation of the cost-effectiveness of a broad deployment of remote sensing techniques for bridge condition assessment and a decision support system (DSS) for bridge infrastructure management. After background research, laboratory testing, field demonstration, and interviews with bridge inspection experts, three technologies emerged as having the most potential for cost-effective implementation: 3D Optical Bridge Evaluation System (3DOBS), Thermal Infrared Imagery (ThIR), and Ultra Wide Band Imaging RADAR System (UWBIRS). The researchers conclude that investment in remote sensing technologies for bridge health monitoring can enhance technical performance of bridge inspection and improve the resource allocation decision process for transportation agencies. Use of these technologies can be especially beneficial when combined with a decision support system (DSS), such as that developed by the research team.


Using a cultural-ecological approach, the aim of this study is to explore cultural-specific parenting practices that may help African American children navigate the American educational system and support their academic achievement. Specifically, this study examines: (a) the associations between parental racial socialization and child academic achievement, and (b) the variations in these associations across child gender and family socio-economic status. The participants were 134 African American children and their mothers. The children were fifth grade students in public elementary schools in a mid-sized southeastern city. Data were collected from children and their mothers during home interviews. Academic achievement data were reported by the children's schools. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to examine the associations between parental racial socialization (preparation for bias, pride development) and academic achievement (GPA), and the moderating effects of gender and SES on these associations. Preparation for bias and pride development did not significantly predict academic achievement. However, gender moderated the associations between preparation for bias and academic achievement. The greater frequency of preparation bias messages delivered to boys increased GPAs. However, as the frequency of preparation for bias messages delivered to girls increased, GPA decreased. SES did not significantly moderate the associations between either dimension of racial socialization and academic achievement.


Motivated by applications of large-scale graph clustering, we study random-walk-based local algorithms whose running times depend only on the size of the output cluster, rather than the entire graph. In particular, we develop a method with better theoretical guarantee compared to all previous work, both in terms of the clustering accuracy and the conductance of the output set. We also prove that our analysis is tight, and perform empirical evaluation to support our theory on both synthetic and real data.

More specifically, our method outperforms prior work when the cluster is well-connected. In fact, the better it is well-connected inside, the more significant improvement we can obtain. Our results shed light on why in practice some random-walk-based algorithms perform better than its previous theory, and help guide future research about local clustering.


In recent years, multi-modal transformers have shown significant progress in Vision-Language tasks, such as Visual Question Answering (VQA), outperforming previous architectures by a considerable margin. This improvement in VQA is often attributed to the rich interactions between vision and language streams. In this work, we investigate the efficacy of co-attention transformer layers in helping the network focus on relevant regions while answering the question. We generate visual attention maps using the question-conditioned image attention scores in these co-attention layers. We evaluate the effect of the following critical components on visual attention of a state-of-the-art VQA model: (i) number of object region proposals, (ii) question part of speech (POS) tags, (iii) question semantics, (iv) number of co-attention layers, and (v) answer accuracy. We compare the neural network attention maps against human attention maps both qualitatively and quantitatively. Our findings indicate that co-attention transformer modules are crucial in attending to relevant regions of the image given a question. Importantly, we observe that the semantic meaning of the question is not what drives visual attention, but specific keywords in the question do. Our work sheds light on the function and interpretation of co-attention transformer layers, highlights gaps in current networks, and can guide the development of future VQA models and networks that simultaneously process visual and language streams.


For dynamic systems with actuator faults, sensor faults, input disturbances, and measurement noises, a novel high-gain estimation technique is presented in this paper to estimate system states, actuator faults, and sensor faults simultaneously. The key idea is to represent faults as auxiliary system states so that a descriptor system representation can be formulated. By using the estimated state and fault signals, a fault-tolerant controller design approach is developed, where the closed-loop dynamic system can still be guaranteed to operate normally when actuator and sensor faults occur. It has been shown that in the proposed design framework, the actuator fault, sensor fault, input disturbance, and measurement noise can appear simultaneously and can be allowed to be in different bounded forms. Finally, the proposed algorithm is applied to the simulation study of a three-shaft gas turbine system and desired results have been obtained.


Problem. Seventh-day Adventist teenagers are familiar with church doctrines but many do not understand how these doctrines relate to a relationship with Jesus Christ and the student's daily lives. This study was to determine the effectiveness of a narrative sermon series to help academy-aged students understand the centrality of Jesus Christ to Seventh-day Adventist doctrines and how these doctrines relate to daily living. Method. This study included two researcher developed surveys and group interviews. The surveys gathered qualitative and quantitative data, which measured understanding of, and attitude towards, Seventh-day Adventist doctrines. Forty-four students from Parkview Adventist Academy in Lacombe, Alberta, Canada, of both genders, aged 15-18, took part in the study. Results. Both student understanding of, and attitude towards Seventh-day Adventist doctrines improved over the four month period between surveys. Student response to the series was mixed; though more positive than negative. There was a correlation between attendance at the series and improved survey scores. Conclusions. The narrative sermons were able to teach doctrine. However, growth in doctrine knowledge and spiritual faith are best supported by a broad range of preaching, teaching, and discipling strategies. The strength of narrative preaching lies in the long term impact on the listener and narrative's ability to address difficult questions.


Perhaps no judicial decision affecting the nation's scholastic press has received more attention from researchers than the Supreme Court's 1988 Hazelwood School District v. Kuhlmeier ruling, which allowed school administrators to censor school publications that are not public forums if the censorship is pedagogically related. Same researchers and commentators have stated that the ruling was a major change in the status of freedom of the high school press and has led to increased censorship and self-censorship (Student Press Law Center, 1994; Hernandez, 1995). Other researchers and commentators have contended that the ruling did nothing to change administrators' authority over the ability of students to send and receive information through school publications and has had minimal effect on the student press (Salomone, 1992; Click, Kopenhaver and Hatcher,1993; Dvorak, Lain and Dickson, 1994; Dickson and Paxton 1997). In the wake of the Hazelwood ruling and the outcry over censorship of the student press, four states enacted state freedom of expression laws covering high school journalists: Arkansas (Arkansas Student Publications Act, 1995), Colorado (Rights of Free Expression for Public School Students, 1990), Iowa (Student Exercise of Free Expression, 1989), and Kansas (Student Publications,1992]. A fifth state, Massachusetts, amended its freedom of expression law (Right of Students to Freedom of Expression, 1974), following Hazelwood. A sixth state, California, already had a freedom of expression law covering high school journalists when Hazelwood was decided (Student Exercise of Freedom of Speech and Press, 1983). A 1997 attempt to enact a similar law in Illinois failed when the state Senate failed to override a veto by Gov. Jim Edgar ("Illinois Lawmakers," 1997). This study, based on a national random-sample survey of high school newspaper advisors, is the first attempt to determine on a nationwide basis whether the amount of press freedom at public high schools differs in states with scholastic freedom of press laws and states without such laws. Hazelwood While not directly involving freedom of the press issues, a 1969 U.S. Supreme Court decision appeared to solidify the fundamental First Amendment rights of free expression for students in public schools. In Tinker v. Des Moines Independent School District, the Supreme Court overturned the suspension of teen-aged students for wearing black armbands to class to demonstrate their opposition to the Vietnam war. The Court's decision, while noting that student expression disrupting classroom activity still could be banned, stated that expression that did not cause a disruption was protected by the First Amendment. "It can hardly be argued," the Court said, "that either students or teachers shed their constitutional rights to freedom of speech or expression at the schoolhouse gate" (p. 507). An indication that the Supreme Court was willing to differentiate between personal speech and school-sponsored speech came in 1986 when the Supreme Court in Bethel School District v. Fraser ruled that a high school student's free speech rights were not violated when he was punfished for making a speech filled with sexual innuendoes at a student assembly. As the Court said, in its opinion, "the freedom to advocate unpopular and controversial views in schools and classrooms must be balanced against the society's countervailing interest in teaching students the boundaries of socially appropriate behavior" (p. 681). In the well-publicized and much discussed 1988 Hazelwood decision, the Supreme Court for the first time addressed the question of whether censorship of student expression in the school newspaper was unconstitutional. In the Hazelwood case, students enrolled in Journalism II at Hazelwood East High School in Missouri attempted to publish an edition of the school newspaper containing two stories that the principal disliked. One was based on interviews with students (identified with pseudonyms) who had become pregnant. …


Fortran is one of the oldest high-level languages and remains the premier language for writing code for science and engineering applications. Modern Fortran: Style and Usage is a book for anyone who uses Fortran, from the novice learner to the advanced expert. It describes best practices for programmers, scientists, engineers, computer scientists, and researchers who want to apply good style and incorporate rigorous usage in their own Fortran code or to establish guidelines for a team project. The presentation concentrates primarily on the characteristics of Fortran 2003, while also describing methods in Fortran 90/95 and valuable new features in Fortran 2008. The authors draw on more than a half century of experience writing production Fortran code to present clear succinct guidelines on formatting, naming, documenting, programming, and packaging conventions and various programming paradigms such as parallel processing (including OpenMP, MPI, and coarrays), OOP, generic programming, and C language interoperability. Programmers working with legacy code will especially appreciate the section on updating old programs.


An entrepreneurial organization is always ready and able to adapt too many essential changes in the external environment, and plan their programs for changing environmental needs.This research has been done to identify the effect of job satisfaction on organizational entrepreneurship in the municipality. The methodology of the research in terms of the main strategy is a quantitative method. From the point of view of applied purpose, it is a descriptive and correlational method for executive, field, and library methods. The statistical population of this study is all 325 staff members in March 2018. The sampling method is a simple random method. The sample size was 175 people based on the Morgan table. Measurement tool in this research was a standard five-point Likert scale questionnaire and for analyzing data the Partial least squares regression (Smart PLS software) was used. Findings showed that job satisfaction (General Working Conditions, Contact with Colleagues, Salary and Benefits and Staff Loyalty) has a positive and significant effect on organizational entrepreneurship. Considering that the Cronbach's alpha value in this research is more than 0.7, it indicates the appropriate reliability of the research. The results showed that general conditions of work with severity (4.701), relationship with colleagues with severity (5.385), Salaries and benefits with severity (3.906) and loyalty of staff with severity (5.97) have a positive and significant effect on organizational entrepreneurship.


The last decade has seen a significant increase in the number and prominence of social movements in South Africa. Many of these movements are supported by relatively privileged individuals who are not themselves victims of the injustices the movements oppose. In this paper, I draw out some of the possibilities and limitations of the role of privileged individuals in supporting social movements struggling for social justice, looking particularly at the role of students in supporting such movements. The paper is based on research on the relationship between one such movement, the Unemployed People's Movement (UPM), and a student organisation, the Students for Social Justice (SSJ), both of which are based in Grahamstown, South Africa. While acknowledging that privileged supporters of such movements can play a constructive role in social justice struggles, I use the experiences of the UPM and SSJ to explore some of the tensions that are likely to emerge and that need to be addressed when the relatively privileged participate in popular struggles. In particular, I discuss the likely difficulties privileged supporters will experience in bridging social divides and in contributing meaningfully to the theorisation of popular struggles.


ABSTRACT Fusarium head blight is one of the most important cereal diseases worldwide. Cereals differ in terms of the main occurring Fusarium species and the infection is influenced by various factors, such as weather and cropping measures. Little is known about Fusarium species in barley in Switzerland, hence harvest samples from growers were collected in 2013 and 2014, along with information on respective cropping factors. The incidence of different Fusarium species was obtained by using a seed health test and mycotoxins were quantified by LC-MS/MS. With these techniques, the most dominant species, F. graminearum, and the most prominent mycotoxin, deoxynivalenol (DON), were identified. Between the three main Swiss cropping systems, Organic, Extenso and Proof of ecological performance, we observed differences with the lowest incidence and toxin accumulation in organically cultivated barley. Hence, we hypothesise that this finding was based on an array of growing techniques within a given cropping system. We observed that barley samples from fields with maize as previous crop had a substantially higher F. graminearum incidence and elevated DON accumulation compared with other previous crops. Furthermore, the use of reduced tillage led to a higher disease incidence and toxin content compared with samples from ploughed fields. Further factors increasing Fusarium infection were high nitrogen fertilisation as well as the application of fungicides and growth regulators. Results from the current study can be used to develop optimised cropping systems that reduce the risks of mycotoxin contamination.