Air pollution exposure and novel biomarkers of inflammation and cardiac stress in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and Air Pollution (MESA Air) Marnie Hazlehurst Chair of the Supervisory Committee: Joel Kaufman, MD, MPH Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Department of Epidemiology Department of Medicine Epidemiologic evidence indicates a causal association between long-term air pollution exposure and cardiovascular disease (CVD), but the mechanisms underlying this process are not fully understood. Inflammation in the lungs that spreads to the rest of the body may result in systemic oxidative stress and inflammation. Subsequently, this inflammatory state may lead to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerosis, increased coagulation, and activation of the renin-angiotensin system. Some studies have utilized measures of subclinical disease or biomarkers to support these potential mechanisms for the effect of air pollution on the development of CVD. This analysis investigated the effects of long-term exposure to air pollution, specifically four pollutants: fine particulate matter (PM2.5), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and black carbon (BC). This paper examined the association between long-term exposure and the following novel biomarkers of cardiac stress and inflammation: (1) N-terminal-pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP), (2) Pentraxin-3 (PTX3), and (3) Serum Amyloid P (SAP). As a secondary aim, this paper examined the association between short-term exposures to PM2.5 and each of the biomarkers of interest. Data from a prospective cohort study, the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis and Air Pollution (MESA Air) in six US cities, were used for this analysis. Likelihood-based spatiotemporal models were used to calculate air pollution exposures at participant residences. NT-proBNP was measured at baseline (n=5,597) and again at a follow-up exam (n=4,694), which was on average three years after baseline. PTX3 and SAP were both measured at the baseline exam in a subset of participants (n=2,878) selected in equal proportions from each racial/ethnic group. NT-proBNP and PTX3 were log-transformed for analysis; SAP was modeled on the natural scale. No association was found between air pollution and NT-proBNP in a repeated measures analysis, but an association was observed between air pollution and elevated levels (≥125 pg/mL) of NTproBNP at Exam 3 among those with a normal NT-proBNP level at baseline (i.e. reflecting incident cases of sub-clinical cardiac stress and/or sub-clinical heart failure). For a 15 ppb increase in NO2 exposure, the odds ratio was 1.88 (95% CI: 1.20, 2.95; p=0.006) and for a 0.7 10 m increase in BC exposure the odds ratio was 1.72 (95% CI: 1.07, 2.76; p=0.026). Increased exposure to PM2.5 was associated with a 2.5 μg/mL increase in SAP (95% CI: 0.3, 4.8; p=0.025), though no associations were found with NOx, NO2, or BC. In cross-sectional analyses, no association was observed between air pollution and PTX3. No associations were found between short-term exposure to PM2.5 and NT-proBNP, PTX3, or SAP.


The degree project explores how artists can contribute to social change processes in the contemporary Rwandan context. The general aim is to put light on the new Rwandan art scene and the actors involved in it. The study searches to understand how these artists perceive their role as actors for social change and the possibilities of art in Rwanda today. The Inema Art Center in the Rwandan capital Kigali serves as a case study for this purpose. The study is guided by the following two key research questions: 1. How does the Inema Art Center perceive its role as an actor for social change in contemporary Rwanda? 2. How does the Inema Art Center use art to fuel development? In order to respond to these questions, the study applies a combination of methodological approaches. The primary approach includes the conduction of interviews with six artists at the Inema Art Center. The interviews are analyzed from a critical discursive perspective. The narratives from the artists reveal how the artists talk about art and see their role as actors for social change. This approach focus is on language use as an indicator of social change. The secondary approach comprises the conduction of a visual analysis of the Inema Art Center's promotion video. The video is analyzed from a mainstream semiotic perspective. The aim of this approach is to conduct a detailed analysis of the meanings the video is communicating in relation to art and social change. Whereas the first approach explores the personal and individual perspectives of the art activities at Inema, the second approach explores rather the institutional perspective, i.e. how Inema through social media presents itself to the public. The main conclusions of the study can be summarized as follows: Inema uses art to improve livelihood at different levels: individual, family, community and national. Inema is a homegrown initiative addressing development issues, but has not the ambition to become a subversive political movement. Hence, Inema refrains from addressing politically sensitive issues and prefers to remain in the politically accepted ―comfort zone‖. My research suggests however that artists such as at Inema are forerunners of the creation of a new innovative cultural discourse that is changing the cultural landscape in contemporary Rwanda. Inema sees its role in educating people allowing them to see things differently. Inema's mission is to communicate the role and potential of art as an income generating activity to the community, but also as a contributor to the productive means to the wider Rwandan society. This is how artists can contribute to social change processes in contemporary Rwanda and help building up the country.


This study continues the investigation of wave boundary layers reported by Carstensen, Sumer & Fredsøe (J. Fluid Mech., 2010, part 1 of this paper). The present paper summarizes the results of an experimental investigation of turbulent solitary wave boundary layers, simulated by solitary motion in an oscillating water tunnel. Two kinds of measurements were made: bed shear stress measurements and velocity measurements. The experiments show that the solitary-motion boundary layer experiences three kinds of flow regimes as the Reynolds number is increased: (i) laminar regime; (ii) laminar regime where the boundary-layer flow experiences a regular array of vortex tubes near the bed over a short period of time during the deceleration stage; and (iii) transitional regime characterized with turbulent spots, revealed by single/multiple, or, sometimes, quite dense spikes in the bed shear stress traces. Supplementary synchronized flow visualization tests confirmed the presence of the previously mentioned flow features. Information related to flow resistance are also given in the paper.


Do you remember Harambe, the 17-year-old silverback who was shot dead after a boy fell into the gorilla enclosure at the Cincinnati Zoo, Cecil, the lion who was shot with an arrow by an American dentist in Zimbabwe, and Marius, the giraffe who was killed and fed to other animals at the Copenhagen Zoo? Every once in a while, a news story about the human-caused death of an animal sparks global outrage, briefly lights up the comments sections on the internet, and reminds us of the inconsistency in how think about non-human animals. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, we kill approximately two thousand animals for food per second, not including fish and other marine animals. All of these animals have rich emotional lives that matter to them, and what we do to them is as bad, and often much worse, than what was done to Harambe, Cecil, and Marius. Most farm animals are raised in filthy and unnatural conditions, and are subject to routine mutilations and other mistreatment. They are transported in ways that are at best unpleasant and at worst horrific, and they die violent deaths. Yet, most of us – while expressing our moral indignation about the treatment of Harambe, Cecil, and Marius – rarely spare a thought for the animals we eat. Morally speaking, there does not seem to be much of a difference between what happened in Cincinnati, Zimbabwe, and Denmark and what happens in factory farms and slaughterhouses in every part of the world, every day. If anything, there was a better reason to kill Harambe – namely, to avert danger from a child – than there is to kill animals for food. We do not need to consume animal products to live a healthy and fulfilled life. In fact, careful studies have found that a well-balanced plant-based diet decreases the chances of suffering from diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some cancers, and benefits the environment. The way we think about and treat non-human animals is deeply confused, and scholars are in a unique position to provide some clarity. The Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics hence decided to dedicate two special issues to the relationship between human beings and other animals, and asked me to be the guest editor. This is the second of the two special issues, and contains the following five articles: The number of fish killed annually by the fishing industry, even on the most conservative estimate, is more than ten times larger than the number of terrestrial animals killed annually for food, and yet animal advocates largely focus on the latter in their efforts to reduce animal suffering. Bob Fischer ("Wild Fish and Expected Utility") does the math and argues that considerations of expected utility call that focus into question. He concludes that animal advocacy organizations owe an explanation of why they are not directing more of their resources to fish. Akande Michael Aina and Ofuasia Emmanuel ("The Chicken Fallacy and the Ethics of Cruelty to Non-Human Animals") challenge the common view that non-human animals are mere resources that we can use as we please, and ask whether Peter Singer's ethics of animal liberation is a plausible alternative. They think it is not, in part because it denies moral status to non-sentient life, and take another approach that draws from Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. They argue that cruelty to non-human animals, with whom they claim we are on an equal moral footing, betrays our trusting and neighborly relationship with them. Ivan Ortega Rodriguez ("Animal Citizenship, Phenomenology, and Ontology: Some reflections on Donaldson's & Kymlicka's Zoopolis ") provides a brief summary of the position Sue Donaldson and Will Kymlicka defend in their ground-breaking book Zoopolis , and argues that they are mistaken in failing to consider an important metaphysical difference between human beings and other animals. While human and non-human animals share a common environment, only human interaction constitutes what he calls a "world." That difference, however, does not undermine the case for animal rights but rather strengthens it. Rhyddhi Chakraborty ("Animal Ethics and India: Understanding the Connection through the Capabilities Approach") takes a critical look at a wide range of legal provisions in Indian law designed to protect non-human animals. She argues that, despite such provisions, nonhuman animals continue to suffer greatly at the hands of human beings in India, which is partly due to the lack of a comprehensive ethical vision. She suggests that the capabilities approach can provide such a vision, and concludes by making a number of policy recommendations to improve animal welfare in India. Robin Attfield and Rebekah Humphreys ("Justice and Non-Human Animals") complete their argument for the claim that our treatment of non-human animals is a matter of justice, the first part of which can be found in the previous issue of this journal. I thank the contributors for choosing this journal to share their exciting ideas, and the reviewers for their insightful comments and suggestions. I am also indebted to Professor Shamima Parvin Lasker and Ms. Tahera Ahmed for their cooperation and trust. If you, dear reader, are new to the academic debate over the moral status of non-human animals, and if the two Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics special issues on animal ethics have made you curious, as I hope they did, I would like to recommend to you two classics of the animal ethics literature: Peter Singer, Animal Liberation: A New Ethics for Our Treatment of Animals (New York: New York Review/Random House, 1975); and Tom Regan, The Case for Animal Rights (Berkeley/Los Angeles: University of California Press, 1983). I hope you will enjoy reading through this issue, and I am sending you my warm regards. Rainer Ebert Guest Editor , Bangladesh Journal of Bioethics Department of Philosophy, University of Johannesburg, South Africa Email: email@example.com Webpage: http://www.rainerebert.com


The demand for integrated services local area networks is increasing at a rapid pace with the advent of many new and exciting applications: office and factory automation, distributed computing, and multimedia communications. To support these new applications, it is imperative to integrate traffic with diverse statistical characteristics and differing delay requirements on the same network. An attractive approach for integrating traffic has been adopted in two token passing local area network standards, the IEEE 802.4 token bus standard and FDDI. The idea is to control the transmissions of each station based on a distributed timing algorithm, so as to achieve the following goals: (i) to limit the token cycles so that time-critical traffic can be accommodated, and (ii) to allocate pre-specified bandwidths to different stations when the network is overloaded. We have investigated the analysis and design of this protocol previously (see Pang and Tobagi, 1989). In this paper, we generalize the transmission control algorithm used with that protocol. The major advantages of the generalization over the original protocol are: (i) it provides a much expanded design space, (ii) it guarantees convergent behavior, and (iii) it gives meaningful insights into the dynamics of the basic control algorithm. >


ABSTRACTThis paper formulates a Multiple Linear Regression Model (MLRM), for the estimation of daily PM10 concentrations in background urban areas. 24-hour backward air mass trajectories, NO2 concentrations and gridded (1° × 1° resolution) Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) observations from MODIS were used in order to compose the model's predictor variables. As a supplement to local combustion/non-combustion contributions, the suggested method intends to comprise and quantify the effect that transboundary PM sources and wind dispersion have, on particulate air pollution levels. The proposed technique was implemented at a background sampling site in Birmingham (United Kingdom) and the results were compared with the outcome of a Simple Linear Regression Model (SLRM) which contained only one predictor variable expressing local combustion. Various statistical indices signified the upgraded performance of the MLRM, in comparison with SLRM, thus the participation of long range transport and wind dispersion variables in the MLRM was successful. According to the MLRM's findings, anthropogenic combustion (traffic, heating) is the strongest source of PM10 in the selected background urban area, followed by local non-combustion emissions and long range transport. Extreme PM2.5 intrusions from continental Europe also emerged.


An attempt is made to focus attention again on the problem of fecal incontinence in women which exists far more commonly than is generally recognized. The author's experience with 40 cases is reviewed. The anatomy and physiology of the anorectal area are discussed in some detail. A theory is postulated explaining the reasons for the symptomatology of fecal incontinence found in these patients, and several important surgical principles are discussed. A careful history and the proper physical examination of the perineal body and anorectal area are emphasized. The physician who is responsible for obstetric care must be more aware of the potential consequences of a poorly repaired third or fourth degree perineal laceration or procto-episiotomy.


Communication is the most symbolic function of language. Hence, The present study explored the manifestation of code switching with reference to ten selected 3 year- old school children .Code switching as a sociolinguistic phenomenon has been studied by various scholars but efforts have not been made to assess its manifestation among school children in the context of Yoruba/English. The Yoruba language serves as the children first language and the English language serves as the second language (L2). The children at this acquisition age code-switch for diverse reasons and these showed that the manifestation of code switching at this age is distinct from that of adult since the children are at the language acquisition stage. With a critical focus, the paper presents appealing case studies and analysis that are useful in gaining deeper insights into reasons that make code switching as a linguistic phenomenon an unavoidable ornament in the beautification process of language learning of children known as language acquisition.


The gabled manor houses of the early 17th century are, for many, the epitome of the English country house; indeed, Jacobean houses form the core of the National Trust collection. Richly illustrated with colour and duotone photographs from "Country Life's" unparalleled archive, this book tells the absorbing story of the evolution of the Jacobean country house. Though the Jacobean period itself spanned only 22 years (1603-25), it was to have a major impact on English domestic architecture. This was an exciting period of experiment and discovery, with an extraordinary range of architectural styles being brought into play. Plain Classical formality coexisted with French, Italian and Dutch examples adapted to English tastes, the result of an explosion in new ideas that also produced revolutions in other aspects of life - notably the English Civil War. Nicholas Cooper's authoritative essays on 22 key Jacobean houses are brought to life with beautifully reproduced photographs in the next in the "Country Life" series on houses by period.


North Atlantic climate is very sensitive to overturning in the Greenland-Iceland-Norwegian (GIN) Seas, overflow of deep water into the North Atlantic via the Greenland-Iceland-Scotland Ridge, and compensating northward flow of warm surface water. Physical models suggest that, in the absence of such overturning, oceanic heat transport to the Northern Hemisphere is reduced by as much as 50%, open North Atlantic sea-surface temperatures are as much as 6 °C lower, and the winter sea-ice limit migrates as far south as 45°N. Although simulations of the equilibrium climate state for the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM) suggest the absence of GIN Seas overflow, tests of these model results have been hampered by ambiguity in sedimentary proxies. Here we present a bottom-water neodymium (Nd) isotope record from the Rockall Trough to investigate changes in the sources of circulating waters over the past 43 k.y. Today and throughout most of the Holocene, water from the GIN Seas, along with water from the North Atlantic Current (NAC) entrained during overflow, sets the bottom-water Nd isotope composition of the Rockall Trough to ∼–10. Our results suggest the persistence of this scenario back into the LGM and beyond to mid-Marine Isotope Stage 3. Periodic radiogenic excursions punctuate the record at times of meltwater events, implying either continued GIN Seas overflow without NAC entrainment, or millennial-scale interruptions in the overflow and shoaling of Southern Source Water. We conclude that overflow was at least intermittently present during the LGM, if not continuous, and that the GIN Seas have remained a source of deep water to the North Atlantic during the last glacial cycle.


By benefiting from perceptual losses, recent studies have improved significantly the performance of the super-resolution task, where a high-resolution image is resolved from its low-resolution counterpart. Although such objective functions generate near-photorealistic results, their capability is limited, since they estimate the reconstruction error for an entire image in the same way, without considering any semantic information. In this paper, we propose a novel method to benefit from perceptual loss in a more objective way. We optimize a deep network-based decoder with a targeted objective function that penalizes images at different semantic levels using the corresponding terms. In particular, the proposed method leverages our proposed OBB (Object, Background and Boundary) labels, generated from segmentation labels, to estimate a suitable perceptual loss for boundaries, while considering texture similarity for backgrounds. We show that our proposed approach results in more realistic textures and sharper edges, and outperforms other state-of-the-art algorithms in terms of both qualitative results on standard benchmarks and results of extensive user studies.


Population aging is a global phenomenon that influences not only the industrialized countries of Asia and the West, but also many middle- and low- income countries that have experienced rapid fertility decline and achieved long life expectancies. This book explores how workers and consumers are responding to population aging and examines how economic growth, generational equity, trade and international capital flows are influenced by population aging.


Quality Function Deployment (QFD) is a common model to frontload engineering design activities with, linking the characteristics of a product vs. the voice of the customer using linear relationships. This approximation is often claimed to be misleading when dealing with the design of complex engineering systems. The paper presents the results of experimental activities aimed at verifying usability and effectiveness of nonlinear functions as extension of the QFD logic. A total of 40 experiments was conducted in a given design episode, involving 139 participants, to analyse the trade-off between the benefit of introducing nonlinearity vs. effort and cost triggered by increased complexity in the modelling. The results show that nonlinear functions, while improving the granularity of the QFD mapping, keeps the method simple enough to work as 'boundary object' in cross-functional design teams, irrespectively from the experience of design team members. The experiments also highlight how users' cognitive attention in the task is dependent from the format by which nonlinear merit functions are presented.


We introduce Dynamic Portals, a lightweight interaction technique to transfer virtual objects across tabletops. They maintain the spatial coherence of objects and inherently align them to the recipients' workspace. Furthermore, they allow the exchange of digital documents among multiple users. A remote view enables users to align their objects at the target location. This paper explores the interaction technique and shows how our concept can also be applied as zoomable viewport and shared workspace.


The youngest dune belt along Lake Michigan's southern coast evolved through four stages. The fi rst stage began during the Nipissing transgression, ~6.0 ka, and culminated at the Nipissing high, ~4.5 ka. Rising lake levels eroded the lake margins and generated sediment that was transported to southern Lake Michigan, creating the Tolleston barrier beach. The second stage, beginning ~4.5 ka with a rapid lake level fall and continuing to ~3.0 ka, represents a major episode of transgressive parabolic dune fi eld development. Large, simple parabolic dunes, with easterly apices (85–105° azimuth) suggestive of westerly wind formation, developed in a sand belt ~1–2 km wide. The third stage, from ~3.0 to 1.0 ka, was characterized by strandplain progradation and transverse ridge development west of Miller, Indiana, and dune stabilization creating the Holland Paleosol east of Miller. Sporadic blowout activity from strong westerly winds redistributed the sand within the dune fi eld, amalgamating simple dune forms into compound, rake-like, and nested parabolic dunes. The fourth and youngest stage, beginning ~1.0 ka, represents blowout development in a southeasterly direction (120–135° azimuth), indicating a wind direction shift to the northwest. Blowouts, whether developed in transverse ridges or in the northern arms of parabolic dunes, occur closest to the lake. The timing of this blowout initiation coincides with a rise in the level of Lake Michigan. However, a more likely development and maintenance mechanism for these dunes is increased storminess with strong northerly and northwesterly winds during the cooler months of the year.


The called 21-cm anomaly meaning that there is unexpected absorption of this line could be due to the transfer of energy from gas to dark matter leading to a cooling of the gas. This requires em interaction of the ordinary matter with dark matter but the allowed value of electric charge must be must much smaller than elementary particle charges. In TGD Universe the interaction would be mediated by an ordinary photon transforming to dark photon having effective value h eff / h 0 = n larger than standard value h implying that em charge of dark matter particle is effectively reduced. Interaction vertices would involve only particles with the same value of h eff / h 0 = n . In this article a simple model for the mixing of particle and its dark variants is proposed. Due to the transformations between different values of h eff / h 0 = n during propagation, mass squared eigenstates are mixtures of particle with various values of n . An the analog of CKM matrix describing the mixing follows from mass squared matrix containing non-diagonal terms. The model for neutrino oscillations is generalized so that it applies to any particle, also photon. The condition that "ordinary" photon is essentially massless during propagation forces to assume that during propagation photon is mixture of ordinary and dark photons, which would be both massive in absence of mixing. A reduction to ordinary photon would take place in the interaction vertices and therefore also in the absorption. The mixing provides a new contribution to particle mass besides that coming from p-adic thermodynamics and from the Kahler magnetic fields assignable to the string like object associated with the particle.


Establishing and maintaining a diverse US workforce that fully engages all populations represents a tremendous opportunity not only for furthering ocean science-related enterprises but also for cultivating future global ocean science leaders who collaborate effectively to make discoveries, achieve solutions, and develop technologies. A growing body of evidence suggests that a more diverse professional US workforce that better reflects the nation's demographics can be achieved through numerous strategies aimed at effectively recruiting, supporting through graduation, and facilitating the increased participation of underrepresented minorities in Earth, atmospheric, and ocean sciences (and other related) graduate degree programs. To provide background and context for understanding the diversity challenge, we first describe expectations for the future US population and compare these projections to information about today's demographic realities and the situation for the geosciences (including the ocean sciences) in particular. Descriptions of several specific implementations provide examples of successful strategies and reflect the research-based positive factors shown to foster increased engagement of underrepresented minorities.


Objectives Several studies suggest that overall and central-obesity are associated with increased breast cancer (BC) risk in postmenopausal-women. However, there are no studies investigating changes of central obesity and BC. We report on the association of BC risk with self-reported skirt size (SS; waist-circumference proxy) changes between 20s and postmenopausal-age. Design Prospective cohort-study. Setting UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS) involving the nine trial centres in England. Participants Postmenopausal-women aged >50 with no known history of BC prior to or on the day of completion of the study-entry questionnaire. Interventions At recruitment and at study entry, women were asked to complete a questionnaire. Women were followed-up via 'flagging' at the NHS Information Centre in England and the Hospital Episode Statistics. Main outcome-measure Time to initial BC diagnosis. Results Between 2 January 2005 and 1 July 2010, 92 834 UKCTOCS participants (median age 64.0) completed the study-entry questionnaire. During median follow-up of 3.19 years (25th–75th centile: 2.46–3.78), 1090 women developed BC. Model adjusted analysis for potential confounders showed body mass index (BMI) at recruitment to UKCTOCS (HR for a 5 unit change=1.076, 95% CI 1.012 to 1.136), current SS at study entry (HR=1.051; 95% CI 1.014 to 1.089) and change in SS per 10 years (CSS) (HR=1.330; 95% CI 1.121 to 1.579) were associated with increased BC risk but not SS at 25 (HR=1.006; 95% CI 0.958 to 1.056). CSS was the most predictive singe adiposity measure and further analysis including both CSS and BMI in the model revealed CSS remained significant (HR=1.266; 95% CI 1.041 to 1.538) but not BMI (HR=1.037; 95% CI 0.970 to 1.109). Conclusions CSS is associated with BC risk independent of BMI. A unit increase in UK SS (eg, 12–14) every 10-years between 25 and postmenopausal-age is associated with postmenopausal BC risk by 33%. Validation of these results could provide women with a simple and easy to understand message. Trial registration number ISRCTN22488978.


The helix-loop-helix protein family member Id2 has been implicated in regulation of cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. Id2 is thought to act by interacting with basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors and inhibiting their interaction with DNA. Lasorella et al. provide new insight into how cell proliferation is influenced by Id2. They show that Id2 is required for oncoproteins of the Myc family to cause cell proliferation. Neuroblastoma cells often contain extra copies of the N-myc gene, and Lasorella et al. show that the Id2 gene is a direct target of N-Myc. The excess Id2 produced in neuroblastoma cells appears to sequester the active form of tumor supressor retinoblastoma protein (Rb). Disruption of the Rb pathway is characteristic of cancer cells, and overexpression of Myc or Id2 provides a potential mechanism by which this can occur without alterations in the Rb pathway itself. When normal amounts of Id2 are present in cells, Id2 appears to act as a target of Rb. Animals that lack Rb die during embryogenesis, but Lasorella et al. report that Id2-deficient mice develop further before dying at birth. Rb, in this case, may inhibit the action of Id2 on its normal targets. Thus loss of Id2 can rescue phenotypic effects of the loss of Rb. Lasorella, A., Noseda, M. Beyna, M., and Iavarone, A. (2000) Id2 is a retinoblastoma protein target and mediates signalling by Myc oncoproteins. Nature 407: 592-598. [Online Journal]


In a time of financial turmoil corporations should pay particular attention to trends that affect their reputation, failure to do which could ultimately prove costly. The increasing use of legislation such as the Alien Tort Claims Act 1789 (USA) to raise corporate complicity in human rights abuses and the expanding compliance requirement of anti-terrorism initiatives require constant consideration by corporations. This paper looks at these two issues from a reputational risk perspective. The recent Royal Dutch Shell ligation in the United States of America highlights the growing risks associated with corporate activities where a failure to take account of potential reputational risk implications can spawn unexpected and costly litigation. Likewise the increasing impact of international and domestic initiatives to counter money laundering extends corporate responsibility. This paper highlights the need for corporations, including financial institutions, to look beyond initial profits and shareholder interests to consider the long term benefits that flow from being a good corporate citizen, by taking account of corporate activities that impact upon human rights whilst remaining cognisant of international efforts to curb money laundering.


This study compares the characteristics of out-of-treatment, homeless, crack-using African-American women with those who are not homeless to determine what risks and protective factors differentiate the two groups. From 1999 to 2001, 683 out-of-treatment, African-American crack-using women (of whom 219 were categorized as homeless) were interviewed and serologically tested. Risk factors that were examined include adverse childhood experiences, psychological distress, physical health, violence and victimization, drug use, and risky sex behaviors. Protective factors that were examined include marital status, education, public assistance, and the responsibility of caring for children. Overall, both groups of women started crack use in their mid-twenties and started drug use with alcohol in their teenage years, though differed significantly on each risk factor examined. Logistic regression analysis found that variables associated with increased odds of being homeless are physical abuse before age 18, crack runs greater than 24 hours, income less than $500 in the last 30 days, depression, and current cigarette smoking. Protective factors found are marital status, living with children under 18, having had a physical in the past year, and receiving money from welfare in the last 30 days. Being sexually assaulted in the past 90 days was marginally associated with homelessness in the model. These findings, specific to crack-using African-American women, suggest that not only do these women overall report painful histories and currently stressful lives, but homeless women are more likely than women who are not homeless to have experienced childhood abuse and are more involved with drug use. Interventions designed for these women need to consider gender, cultural, and contextual issues that not only incorporate aspects of risk reduction related to violence, alcohol use, and comorbid conditions, but also linkages that will address housing issues, education, and skills for independence.


Teachers are considered to be principal actors in the teaching process as well as one of its major constituents when quality and equity are concerned. Over the last decade a lot of papers have been published that deal with the quality of the teaching process and teachers. Most of them focus on students as the main subjects in evaluation of the teaching process and teachers. In this paper we analyze freshmen and senior students' ability to differentiate between the evaluation of teacher and evaluation of teaching. In a lot of questionnaires used in research into this topic there is no difference in the approach to these two diverse aspects of the educational process quality. Since students are commonly the main target group of such questionnaires, in this paper we present the results of the study aimed at determining which elements, from the students' perspective, are recognized and associated with teaching, and which ones with teachers.


This paper analyzes the impact of within-state military spending and national military spending on a state's employment. I estimate that, while within-state spending increases that state's employment (i.e., a positive local effect), an increase in national military spending ceteris paribus decreases employment in the state (i.e., a negative spillover effect). The combined local and spillover effects imply an aggregate employment effect that is close to zero. The estimates are consistent with a resource reallocation explanation: Persons take jobs in or move to a state with increased military spending, but they leave when increased out-of-state military spending creates opportunities elsewhere. I find support for this interpretation based on estimates of population changes by demographic groups in response to spending shocks.


This work investigates mainly the magnetic field and the thermophoresis effects on the heat and mass transfer in steady laminar boundary layer flow of an incompressible viscous micropolar fluid over a moving vertical and permeable plate subjected to a magnetic field without neglecting the resulting dissipation. The governing differential equations are transformed into the ordinary differential equations which are solved numerically. Results are displayed graphically to illustrate the influence of Magnetic parameter, Thermophoretic parameter , and Suction/injection parameter on velocity, microrotation, temperature and species concentration profiles. The rate of mass transfer is affected strongly by Thermophoretic parameter while the local skin-friction coefficient and the local wall couple stress are sensitive to the variations of the magnetic field and to the suction case. The micropolarity controls the shear stress but plays a limited role for the others quantities. Heat and mass transfer rate can be regulated principally by the use of a permeable plate with suction. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.mech.23.3.14723


This thesis is dedicated to exploring the potential of the 3D shape of the nasal region for face recognition. In comparison to other parts of the face, the nose has a number of distinctive features that make it attractive for recognition purposes. It is relatively stable over different facial expressions, easy to detect because of its salient convexity, and difficult to be intentionally cover up without attracting suspicion. In addition compared to other facial parts, such as forehead, chin, mouth and eyes, the nose is not vulnerable to unintentional occlusions caused by scarves or hair. Prior to undertaking a thorough analysis of the discriminative features of the 3D nasal regions, an overview of denoising algorithms and their impact on the 3D face recognition algorithms is first provided. This analysis, which is one of the first to address this issue, evaluates the performance of 3D holistic algorithms when various denoising methods are applied. One important outcome of this evaluation is to determine the optimal denoising parameters in terms of the overall 3D face recognition performance. A novel algorithm is also proposed to learn the statistics of the noise generated by the 3D laser scanners and then simulate it over the face point clouds. Using this process, the denoising and 3D face recognition algorithms' robustness over various noise powers can be quantitatively evaluated. A new algorithm is proposed to find the nose tip from various expressions and self-occluded samples. Furthermore, novel applications of the nose region to align the faces in 3D is provided through two pose correction methods. The algorithms are very consistent and robust against different expressions, partial and self-occlusions. The nose's discriminative strength for 3D face recognition is analysed using two approaches. The first one creates its feature sets by applying nasal curves to the depth map. The second approach utilises a novel feature space, based on histograms of normal vectors to the response of the Gabor wavelets applied to the nasal region. To create the feature spaces, various triangular and spherical patches and nasal curves are employed, giving a very high class separability. A genetic algorithm (GA) based feature selector is then used to make the feature space more robust against facial expressions. The basis of both algorithms is a highly consistent and accurate nasal region landmarking, which is quantitatively evaluated and compared with previous work. The recognition ranks provide the highest identification performance ever reported for the 3D nasal region. The results are not only higher than the previous 3D nose recognition algorithms, but also better than or very close to recent results for whole 3D face recognition. The algorithms have been evaluated on three widely used 3D face datasets, FRGC, Bosphorus and UMB-DB.


In South Africa, night cropping from a vehicle Is commercially used to crop game. Conventional hunting employs the principles of fair chase and usually consists of hunting on foot during the day. The purpose of this study was to compare the meat quality of the Impala (Aepyceros melampus) shot utilizing these two methods. No significant differences In pH45 or pHu were found between the two methods. An exponential decay model (y = a + b-ct) was fitted to the pH data and conventionally hunted animals showed significantly higher rates of pH decline (c = -0.385 ± 0.022 units per hour) than night-cropped animals (c = -0.184 ± 0.019 units per hour) - a phenomenon that may be linked to the ante-mortem stress experienced by the animals, and the cooling rate of the carcasses. Impala conventionally hunted also had significantly higher constants for the pH exponential model (a = 5.424 ± 0.039; b = 1.405 ± 0.034) than the night-cropped Impala (a = 5.295 ± 0.033; b = 1.556 ± 0.029). No significant differences were found with regards to meat quality between treatments except for slight differences In colour (night-cropped: a* = 10.56 ± 0.229, chroma = 12.81 ± 0.235; day-hunted: a* = 11.41 ± 0.245, chroma = 13.78 ± 0.252: the later being slightly darker). The study therefore found that conventional hunting affected the rate of pH decline of the carcasses but did not adversely affect the meat quality compared to night cropping.


Chest pain is a common symptom in paediatric practice and a frequent cause of attendance to general practitioners and hospital outpatients' departments. Public education campaigns have emphasised its potentially serious cause in adults, namely 'a heart attack', leading to heightened concern when it occurs in a child.1 2 However, in children it is typically benign and self-limiting, not usually a manifestation of organic disease, and rarely cardiac in origin.1,–,11 The patients are often referred by their general practitioner or local accident & emergency department to general paediatricians, respiratory paediatricians or paediatric cardiologists. Chest pain is in fact the second most common cause of referral to paediatric cardiologists in the USA,6 murmurs being the largest.12 The exact cause of chest pain often remains undiagnosed13 and is labelled as 'idiopathic'.1 3,–,6 9 11 14

There are a number of chronic conditions known to be associated with recurrent chest pain, for example cystic fibrosis and sickle cell disease. This article will not discuss these conditions as the underlying diagnosis is usually known. There are a number of acute causes of chest pain, for example pneumothorax or empyema, that are not usually recurrent and where the child is often unwell, so they will also not be discussed. Of course all recurrent cases will, at one point, have to present for the first time, so acute causes will sometimes need to be considered at the initial presentation. This article will highlight the most likely causes of recurrent chest pain in a child who is otherwise well, although the full differential diagnosis is long (table 1).

View this table:

Table 1
Causes of chest pain by site of origin

There are a number of causes of recurrent chest pain broadly divided into the following categories: cardiac, …


Our contribution adds important new insight to the recent finding that polyoxometalate catalysts, such as H8PV5Mo7O40 (HPA‐5), are very effective catalysts in the extractive oxidative desulfurization of fuels using molecular oxygen. Our contribution focuses on aspects of catalyst stability and deactivation caused by the accumulation of acidic products and intermediates, i. e. sulfuric acid, formic acid, acetic acid, sulfoacetic acid or 2‐sulfobenzoic acid. These compounds reduce the pH value of the aqueous catalyst phase during the course of the desulfurization reaction. At lower pH values, the higher V‐substituted species rearrange to lower V‐substituted species and VO2+. This rearrangement is responsible for a decreasing activity in extractive oxidative desulfurization. We show that formic acid, acetic acid, sulfoacetic acid and 2‐sulfobenzoic acid block active sites of the catalyst. Oxalic acid, in contrast, has been found to exert a remarkable positive effect on catalyst activity. The feasibility of catalyst recycling and efficient isolation of the decomposition products is demonstrated using four commercially available organic solvent nanofiltration membranes.


Food security is important in Kenya today. Bwathonaro sub-catchment in Tana catchment is experiencing food insecurity and severe water related challenges due to high population pressure and over-reliance on irrigated agriculture for livelihood. Bwathonaro river supports irrigated agriculture, which is a major source of livelihood for people in the watershed. These challenges include: water pollution, inappropriate solid waste disposal, illegal water abstraction and/or over-abstraction of water, inefficient irrigation practices, encroachment on and drainage of wetlands as well as inappropriate use of agrochemicals in wetlands. The specific objectives of the study were to 1) document current status of water resource use; 2) propose a strategy for enhancing subsistence food crop farming within the existing khat (miraa) farming system; 3) promote efficient irrigation systems that reduce water use conflict and enhance equitable distribution, and 4) work with community to improve water quality and quantity. The study adopted a four-pronged approach in the data collection procedures, namely: socio-economic surveys, participatory approaches, biophysical data and geospatial tools. Results showed that water use conflicts are persistent in the catchment. However, one Water Resource User Association (WRUA)-BWARUA, has shown consistent progress towards managing water resources for food security. The WRUA has undertaken a number of activities including ensuring that water abstractors observe permit conditions, undertaking surveillance of polluters, awareness creation on protection of wetlands, springs and river banks among other activities in the catchment. The impact of these activities has been positive and includes: reduction of conflict over water, reduction in pollution, more water flowing downstream and more water availability in the catchment for diverse uses including irrigation for agriculture, livestock and wildlife. Such practices could be used in other sub-catchments of Kenya as showcases to facilitate the sustainable use of scarce water resources for the benefit of all stakeholders.


Abstract Although current assessments of shark population trends involve both fishery-independent and fishery-dependent data, the latter are generally limited to commercial landings that may neglect nearshore coastal habitats. Texas has supported the longest organized land-based recreational shark fishery in the United States, yet no studies have used this "non-traditional" data source to characterize the catch composition or trends in this multidecadal fishery. We analyzed catch records from two distinct periods straddling heavy commercial exploitation of sharks in the Gulf of Mexico (historical period = 1973–1986; modern period = 2008–2015) to highlight and make available the current status and historical trends in Texas' land-based shark fishery. Catch records describing large coastal species (>1,800 mm stretched total length [STL])were examined usingmultivariate techniques to assess catch seasonality and potential temporal shifts in species composition. These fishery-dependent data revealed consistent seasonality that was independent of the data set examined, although distinct shark assemblages were evident between the two periods. Similarity percentage analysis suggested decreased contributions of Lemon Shark Negaprion brevirostris over time and a general shift toward the dominance of Bull Shark Carcharhinus leucas and Blacktip Shark C. limbatus. Comparisons of mean STL for species captured in historical and modern periods further identified significant decreases for both Bull Sharks and Lemon Sharks. Size structure analysis showed a distinct paucity of landed individuals over 2,000 mm STL in recent years. Although inherent biases in reporting and potential gear-related inconsistencies undoubtedly influenced this fishery-dependent data set, the patterns in our findings documented potential declines in the size and occurrence of select large coastal shark species off Texas, consistent with declines reported in the Gulf ofMexico. Future management efforts should consider the use of non-traditional fishery-dependent data sources, such as land-based records, as data streams in stock assessments.


Aims. We quantitatively studied the X-ray cluster morphology, and then investigated the relationships between the cluster X-ray morphology and various cluster characteristics determined from the optical data. Methods. Using a sample of 101 clusters at redshift z ∼ 0.05-1 taken from the Chandra archive, the X-ray morphology is characterized by a series of objectively-measured simple statistics of X-ray surface brightness, which are designed to be robust against variations of image quality caused by various exposure times and various cluster redshifts. Results. The main conclusions from this work are: (1) X-ray morphologies of clusters show no significant correlation with optical richness, or related quantities. (2) X-ray morphologies of clusters are significantly correlated with the degree to which the brightest cluster member stands out against the cluster background. (3) X-ray morphologies of clusters are also correlated with optical concentration defined by galaxy distribution including fainter populations. (4) The ratio of the strong-lensing to X-ray mass measurements is correlated with the X-ray concentration, in that highly X-ray concentrated clusters show compatible strong-lensing and X-ray mass measurements, while those with low X-ray concentration show discrepancy between the two mass measurements.


Clothing, jewelry, animal remains, ceramics, coins, and weaponry are among the artifacts that have been discovered in graves in Gaul dating from the fifth to eighth century. Those who have unearthed them, from the middle ages to the present, have speculated widely on their meaning. This authoritative book makes a major contribution to the study of death and burial in late antique and early medieval society with its long overdue systematic discussion of this mortuary evidence. Tracing the history of Merovingian archaeology within its cultural and intellectual context for the first time, Effros exposes biases and prejudices that have colored previous interpretations of these burial sites and assesses what contemporary archaeology can tell us about the Frankish kingdoms. Working at the intersection of history and archaeology, and drawing from anthropology and art history, Effros emphasizes in particular the effects of historical events and intellectual movements on French and German antiquarian and archaeological studies of these grave goods. Her discussion traces the evolution of concepts of nationhood, race, and culture and shows how these concepts helped shape an understanding of the past. Effros then turns to contemporary multidisciplinary methodologies and finds that we are still limited by the types of information that can be readily gleaned from physical and written sources of Merovingian graves. For example, since material evidence found in the graves of elite families and particularly elite men is more plentiful and noteworthy, mortuary goods do not speak as directly to the conditions in which women and the poor lived. The clarity and sophistication with which Effros discusses the methods and results of European archaeology is a compelling demonstration of the impact of nationalist ideologies on a single discipline and of the struggle toward the more pluralistic vision that has developed in the post-war years.


BACKGROUND
The complexity of care can be described through a clinical nursing information system, in particular through the Professional Assessment Instrument -PAI-, encoding each health care activity in time units and analysing the relationship of observed time to patient characteristics in relation to the functional models of care needs.

DESIGNS
Observational study.

METHODS
Data were collected for 11 months in 2016-17 in four inpatient units of an Italian hospital using the Professional Assessment Instrument, and a survey grid to measure the time of the nursing activities delivered. All activities with a frequency of 20 or more have been included. The Work Sampling technique was used for time-tracking.

RESULTS
The sample included 2765 nursing activities. The mean times for each care activity were compared showing significant differences. A statistically significant correlation (Sperman's correlation coefficient) was observed both between the observed time and the level of illness severity and between time and functional models.

CONCLUSIONS
Patient complexity, both in terms of illness severity and level of dependence, can be coded through a clinical nursing information system. This facilitates the classification and measurement of nursing care delivered, which includes the entire care process.


Abstract In the recent past, both consumers and real estate service providers have increasingly used the Internet to improve trading effectiveness and efficiency in the real estate market. Although Internet usage has reached phenomenal levels, the pure real estate electronic transaction, where the process is totally completed through the Internet, is still very much in its infancy. This indicates that significant barriers and risks remain in applying this kind of technology. This paper develops a model to optimize the risk management of real estate electronic transactions and suggests methods to control the risks inherent in these transactions. Introduction The number of both consumers and real estate service providers using the Internet is growing significantly. According to the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR, 1999), the number of buyers in the United States using the Internet to search for homes rose from just 2% in 1995 to 23% in 1999, and to more than 55% in 2001 (Muhanna, 2000; and Brice, 2001). In addition, the real estate industry has embraced the Internet as a very attractive medium to conduct business. In January 1995, there were approximately 100 real estate websites that offered properties for sale. By the end of that year, the figure rose to over 4,000 sites and up to approximately 8,000 sites by the end of 1996 (Heller and Krukoff, 1997). Even though the Internet is widely predicted to revolutionize commerce over the next few years, the full potential of electronic commerce (e-commerce) will only be realized if both buyers and sellers have sufficient confidence to trade electronically (Skevington, 1998). The results from a survey of e-commerce in the real estate brokerage industry (Muhanna, 2000) found that buyers' searching was the most impacted by the Internet, followed by property listing and property evaluating, while respondents believed that the impact on the negotiating and executing steps was limited. This indicates that there exist some barriers and risks in real estate electronic transactions. However, when these risks are carefully managed, electronic transactions provide potential benefits in terms of transaction costs, accessibility to market and speed of transaction (Westland, 2002). To date, relatively few studies have focused on the risk aspects of electronic transactions in real estate applications. This paper examines the risk of real estate electronic transactions and develops techniques to mitigate its adverse effects. Literature Review The Internet and Real Estate Past studies concerning the relationship between the Internet and real estate can be classified into a few dominating themes. One direction is how the Internet has become and continues to be a very important tool for marketing real estate and related services. Rodriquez, Lipscomb and Yancey (1996) identified four different types of real estaterelated sites, including those that offered both real estate for sale and real estate services, and provided an extensive list of these sites. Bond, Seiler, Seiler and Blake (2000) examined the explosive growth of real estate-related websites and determined the reasons why Ohio real estate brokerage firms did or did not use websites in their businesses, the information contained in their sites and the technical requirements that were necessary for maintaining them. Similarly, Muhanna (2000) examined how real estate firms adapted to the use of the Internet and assessed their perceptions regarding its potential. A growing body of literature looks at the effect of the Internet on retail sales, property and service (e.g., Mander, 1996; Wheaton, 1996; Schwarz, 1997; Borsuk, 1999; Hemel and Schmidt, 1999; Baen, 2000; and Miller, 2000). For example, Bacn and Guttery (1997) examined how the Internet threatened the traditional relationship among licensees, real estate buyers and sellers, and how these developments would create savings for real estate consumers. …


Methods used in the restoration of lowland heath vary depending on edaphic factors at a site and need for introduction of ericaceous propagules. This study investigates the effect of some methods on growth of an important ericaceous species, Heather (Calluna vulgaris). It also explores whether success of growth of C. vulgaris in restoration schemes is affected by its degree of colonization by ericoid mycorrhizal fungi (ERM). The success of Heather growth was compared at three sites, a control area of natural heathland and two restoration sites. These were a quarry where soil had been translocated but not chemically manipulated and a site on agricultural land where the top soil had been improved but then either stripped away or acidified prior to attempting heathland restoration. Propagules of C. vulgaris were applied either as turves or as clippings. Results show that clippings produced as dense a cover of C. vulgaris as turves over a period of 13 years and that plants in such swards can exhibit a degree of ERM colonization comparable to that found in mature plants growing in natural heathland. Young (<2 years of age) plants of C. vulgaris had less extensive mycorrhizal colonization of their roots, particularly when growing on restored agricultural soils. A relationship was found between lower levels of mycorrhizal colonization and smaller aboveground plant growth. Success of heathland restoration may be improved by finding means to enhance the rate and extent of mycorrhizal colonization of young C. vulgaris growing in a restoration environment.


Background Chronic kidney disease is a serious and complex medical condition which affects a significant number of people in the UK. Guidance from NICE currently recommends referral of CKD patients at stages G4-5 but the guidelines themselves are not based on strong evidence. Objectives To compare progression rates for CKD G3 patients in primary and secondary care groups to determine whether or not earlier referral should be supported. Methods We categorised 1,345 patients with stage G3 CKD into primary and secondary care and further subdivided secondary care into non-renal and renal groups. Baseline differences between primary and secondary care groups were explored via Student t-tests and chisquared analyses. Baseline exploratory analysis of potential relationships between eGFR and other variables was done via simple linear and multiple regression modelling. Longitudinal trends were described using linear mixed effects modelling and chi-squared tests were used to compare differences in all-cause mortality and end-stage renal disease rates. Results The overall trend was an improvement in renal function by 1.26 ml/min/1.73 m2 per year over an average follow up period of 2.84 years. Trends for primary, non-renal secondary and renal secondary care were 1.84, 0.87 and -0.17 ml/min/1.73 m2 per year respectively. The relative risk of all-cause mortality was 2.49 times greater for secondary care patients compared to primary care (p<0.001). Conclusions The management of CKD G3 patients in primary care is able to defer renal decline for at least 2.84 years. Most patients who are at higher risk of progression are already identified and referred to secondary care. Overall this supports current NICE guidelines on referral.


Cardiac surgery is traditionally a heavy user of blood and blood products. Until recently, the benefits of transfusion have been largely assumed and the risks relatively ignored. This has prompted us to examine new ways of minimising patient exposure to donor red blood cells (RBC's). At the present time, most clinical guidelines for RBC transfusion are based mainly upon haemoglobin concentration ([Hb]). As [Hb] may be artificially depressed by the haemodiluting effect of the heavy clear fluid load associated with cardiac surgery, transfusing based upon [Hb] alone may overestimate the requirement for RBC's. Where such haemodilution is present, systemic oxygenation may be maintained through a viscosity mediated patho-physiological response. The work reported in this thesis attempts to explore the relative contribution of both red cell volume (RCV) and plasma volume (PV) to the anaemia encountered following cardiac surgery while also examining factors that may be associated with a low post-operative RCV. In addition, we have explored on a theoretical basis what [Hb] would represent a critical level of systemic oxygen delivery (DO2Crit). Taken together, this has allowed us to develop an RCV based transfusion guideline aimed at reducing the incidence of unnecessary (and potentially counter-productive) RBC transfusion. As RBC's may be associated with pulmonary endothelial damage, we have also studied the impact of the RCV guideline developed on post-operative acute lung injury (ALI). Finally, in a separate study, the merits of a simple activated clotting time (ACT) based system of anti-coagulation management for cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) versus that of an individualised heparin management system (HMS) are described.


Millimeter-wave (mmWave) communications will play a key role in enhancing the throughput, reliability, and security of next generation wireless networks. These advancements are achieved through the large bandwidth available in this band and through the use of highly directional links that will be used to overcome the large pathloss at these frequencies. Although the terrestrial application of mmWave systems is advancing at a rapid pace, the use of mmWave communication systems in aviation systems or airports is still in its infancy. This can be attributed to the challenges related to radio technology and lack of development, and characterization of mmWave wireless channels for the aviation field and the airport environment. Consequently, one of our goals is to develop methodologies that support mmWave air to ground links, and various links at airports, by applying new localization schemes that allow for application of highly directional links that can be deployed over longer distances despite the high path loss at mmWave frequencies. However, a very thorough understanding of the mmWave channel models are needed to enable such new applications. To this end, in this paper, we present a survey of the current channel models in the mmWave band. The 3-dimensional statistical channel model is also reviewed and its parameters and typical characteristics for this model are identified and computed through simulation for the Boise metropolitan area.


Wind energy is used to rotate a magnetic turbine in order to remove heat from the surface of a photovoltaic (PV) panel. A three-bladed turbine, which rotates with wind energy, has rotational motion underneath the studied PV panel in order to move Magnetic Nano-Particles (MNPs). In addition, effects of the magnetic field strength (B=450-830 mT), rotational velocity of the magnetic turbine (ω), and the concentration of MNPs (ϕ) on the heat removal from the PV panel area were investigated. Results showed that heat removal from PV panel was intensified by motion of pinned MNPs in the ferrofluid via the exerted external force of magnetic field. Concurrent application of available magnetic field along with ferrofluid led to 7.6-24 % temperature reduction for a PV panel. Furthermore, the produced electrical energy of the PV panel was augmented between 2.55-3.13 W depending on ϕ, ω, and B. Moreover, the impact of ω on cooling performance was also investigated, and a significant enhancement to generated power was observed. Eventually, the maximum amount of the produced power (3.13 W), maximum power enhancement percentage (32.63 %), and thermal efficiency (24 %) were achieved for B=830 mT, ω=50 cycles/min, and ϕ=0.05 (w/v).


The role of patents for capturing (appropriating) value from innovation investments has since long been of major interest to both practitioners and academics. Previous studies have implicitly assumed that firms appropriate value through in-house creation and marketing of innovative products and services. We question this assumption in light of the variety of business models and strategies now being available, including open innovation. We develop a basic typology of appropriation strategies, and investigate the role patents play for different strategies among 172 Swedish technology based firms. The results show that the importance of patents has a skew distribution with many firms rating patents as very important and with a fat tail of firms rating patents less important. This partly explains the limited importance of patents that previous studies have communicated. The results also show that the protection of sales and sales margins of innovative products and services is only one function of patents, and that patents are also important for the sales of technologies and stocks. Thus, patenting widens the range of appropriation strategies as well as financing strategies available to R&D management, which is especially important for cash strung technology based start-ups and SMEs, as well as for large firms with long R&D times.


In affective natural language generation (NLG) a major aim is to be able to influence the emotional effects evoked in the addressee through the intelligent use of language. While previous work has shown that varying the form of the language, while keeping the content the same, can have a measurable effect on the emotions of the addressee, we report here on work which investigated which linguistic techniques to give the text a more or less positive slant contribute to these emotional effects. We report on three studies in which texts that gave positive feedback on an IQ test performance were tested for emotional effects on the recipient. The first study followed a comparison method on the sentence level, and the second study compared the texts as a whole. In both of these, participants were asked to rate the emotional effects that they thought the texts would have. On the other hand, in the third study different types of feedback were evaluated in a context of use, where participants were asked to perform an IQ test, read their feedback and report on their actual emotional state. In the first two studies, participants confirmed that the texts contained essentially the same content. The positive slanting techniques generally resulted in texts that were judged to be either positive or equal to neutral texts, although the effects were less strong than in previous work, which employed a variety of techniques, and there were a number of exceptions which impact on the usefulness of these techniques. However the IQ-test experiment did not show any emotional effects arising from variation in the form of the feedback. We reflect on possible reasons for this outcome and what it might mean for further work on Affective NLG.


This paper estimates global logistic regression and logistic geographically weighted regression (GWR) models of urban growth in the adjacent border cities of Laredo, Texas in the United States and Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas in Mexico, for two time periods from 1985 to 2014. Historical land use and land cover patterns were monitored through Landsat imagery from the United States Geological Survey to identify instances of urban growth through land type change. Data on socioeconomic variables related to urban growth were collected from various sources and used as independent variables. In both time periods, the logistic GWR was proven to be a complementary model for the global logistic regression to explore the urban growth effect. In addition, GWR outperformed the global logistic regression model with respect to goodness of fit. These results suggest that local models are complementary to global models to empirically analyze the determinants of urban growth in study areas that contain political borders, presumably because the relationships between socioeconomic factors and urban growth are characterized by spatial heterogeneity in such areas. The spatial variable of the relationship between urban growth and the neighborhood interactions and proximity effect present the idea of complexity and interconnections between the land use change and associated factors.


We propose two novel manipulation strategies for increasing and decreasing the difficulty of C-tests automatically. This is a crucial step towards generating learner-adaptive exercises for self-directed language learning and preparing language assessment tests. To reach the desired difficulty level, we manipulate the size and the distribution of gaps based on absolute and relative gap difficulty predictions. We evaluate our approach in corpus-based experiments and in a user study with 60 participants. We find that both strategies are able to generate C-tests with the desired difficulty level.


Multiferroics, materials where spontaneous long-range magnetic and dipolar orders coexist, represent an attractive class of compounds, which combine rich and fascinating fundamental physics with a technologically appealing potential for applications in the general area of spintronics. Ab-initio calculations have significantly contributed to recent progress in this area, by elucidating different mechanisms for multiferroicity and providing essential information on various compounds where these effects are manifestly at play. In particular, here we present examples of density-functional theory investigations for two main classes of materials: a) proper multiferroics (where ferroelectricity is driven by hybridization or purely structural effects), with BiFeO3 as prototype material, and b) improper multiferroics (where ferroelectricity is driven by correlation effects and is strongly linked to electronic degrees of freedom such as spin, charge, or orbital ordering), with rare-earth manganites as prototypes. As for proper multiferroics, first-principles calculations are shown to provide an accurate qualitative and quantitative description of the physics in BiFeO3, ranging from the prediction of large ferroelectric polarization and weak ferromagnetism, over the effect of epitaxial strain, to the identification of possible scenarios for coupling between ferroelectric and magnetic order. For the class of improper multiferroics, ab-initio calculations have shown that, in those cases where spin-ordering breaks inversion symmetry (i.e. in antiferromagnetic E-type HoMnO3), the magnetically-induced ferroelectric polarization can be as large as a few μC/cm. The presented examples point the way to several possible avenues for future research: On the technological side, first-principles simulations can contribute to a rational materials design, aimed at identifying spintronic materials that exhibit ferromagnetism and ferroelectricity at or above room-temperature. On the fundamental side, ab-initio approaches can be used to explore new mechanisms for ferroelectricity by exploiting electronic correlations that are at play in transition metal oxides, and by suggesting ways to maximize the strength of these effects as well as the corresponding ordering temperatures.


Increased visibility and the seemingly diverse nature of media representations of sex and sexuality in contemporary media might suggest that British society has become more liberal and tolerant of expressions of different sexual interests. However, the mediatization of sex (whether depictions of actual acts; talk about identities, practices or problems; humorous or serious references to sex) continues to provoke great anxiety and controversy. Indeed the media are often accused of harboring and promoting sexual, and therefore social, disorder. Representations across television, music video and magazines are increasingly 'pornographic' – encouraging 'oversexualized' behaviours in boys and young men and the over-enthusiastic embrace of 'sexiness' in girls and young women; fostering 'bad body-image', depression, promiscuity; contributing to marriage breakdown, divorce and general unhappiness; and trivializing art and storytelling. Yet at the same time, it seems clear that sexual content can make an important, albeit controversial, contribution to the vibrancy of media output, whether that is fictionalized drama, or educational, reality or documentary programing (Attwood, 2006; Arthurs, 2004; McNair, 2002, 2013).

Thus, the mediatization of sex presents us with a number of interesting problems and contradictions. The media offer up representations of a diverse range of sexual desires, encounters and practices, for which they are both praised and vilified and, at the same time, the media are the key means by which calls for a 're-moralization' of culture are repeatedly aired and disseminated. The adage 'sex sells' seems ever more apposite at this time, although for some media commentators, life would be better if 'sex' was not so ubiquitous and if people would keep their private lives private. Yet, it is precisely this idea that 'sex' is an entirely private matter that renders sex and sexuality so important to studies of contemporary culture. Mediatized sex exists in a variety of spaces – it is both in the media and about the media.
This paradox will be central to the discussion of contemporary and historical examples in this chapter. Hence, this chapter will seek to capture some of the complex topographies of representations and discussions of sex and sexuality within and across the media.


ABSTRACT This study developed the restaurant industry business cycle models. The U.S. restaurant industry demonstrated three cycles (peak to peak or trough to trough) for the period of 1970 through 1998. The restaurant industry peaked in 1973, 1979, and 1989. The industry troughed in 1970, 1974, 1980, and 1991. The mean duration of the restaurant industry cycles is 8 years calculated by peak to peak and 6.5 years calculated by trough to trough. Expansion takes an average of 6 years in the restaurant industry but declines sharply after it reaches the peak taking average 1.33 years. The restaurant industry experienced high growth (boom) every five years on average. Restaurant industry growth cycles, then, tend to be relatively symmetrical: since 1970 the average duration was about 2.25 years for both expansion and contraction. INTRODUCTION Industries react in different ways to the business cycle fluctuations of the U.S. economy (Berman and Pfleeger, 1997). Some industries are very vulnerable to economic swings, while others are relatively immune to them. For those industries that are characterized as cyclical, the degree and timing of these fluctuations vary widely. The industries that experience only modest gains during expansionary periods may also suffer only mildly during contractions and those that recover fastest from recessions may also feel the impact of a downturn earlier and more strongly than other industries. One of the most striking aspects of the business cycle is that it is a phenomenon which, sooner or later, is reflected in similar patterns in almost every macro-economic variable, thus illustrating their interdependence (Berk and Bikker, 1995). Such interdependence is not restricted to national macro-economic variables either; it is also an industry phenomenon. It is important to understand the industry business environment if we are to forecast the impact of the cycle on our firm and to fix strategy on the basis of that forecast. In a sense, measuring, monitoring and forecasting business cycles is a relatively new class of methods in investigating the industry's overall phenomena. The systematic analysis of cycles in the restaurant business provides clues to help us forecast future direction and improve our ability to manage. According to previous studies (Choi, 1999, 2003), in the hotel industry, there were many chances to gain competitive advantages over the cycles, but many companies missed the opportunities because there were fears to take business actions at different stages of the industry cycle. Monitoring and forecasting restaurant industry cycles clearly gives the manager insight into industry turning points. Moreover, a company that quickly recognizes a change in the phase of the industry cycle could use either a recession or a recovery strategy to optimize profit. To take any benefit from this type of analysis, it is necessary to develop the industry cycle models. In the restaurant industry literature, however, there are no studies using industry cycles. Moreover, the literature on forecasting in the restaurant industry is very limited in terms at least of the number of studies. Some of the studies introduce a menu item forecasting system (Messersmith, Moore, & Hoover, 1978), explain forecasting menu item demand in food service operations (Miller and Shanklin, 1988), forecast restaurant sales (Forst, 1992), introduce general forecasting techniques for restaurant operation (Messersmith and Miller, 1992), and present a case study for demand forecasting (Yavas, 1996). Most of the studies are discussions and thus hard to apply to dynamic and complex economic trends and therefore industry's overall trends. There is no systematic forecasting study for the restaurant industry as a whole and no restaurant industry business cycle study. There is merit to developing a systematic industry cycle model as a forecasting tool and providing a guidepost for the restaurant business managers and investors. …


A simple model in which an animal makes a choice between two simultaneously available foraging options is used to show that we cannot expect natural selection to assign an absolute value (based on fitness) to each option. The example shows that the value of an option depends on its context; in particular, it depends on the option with which it is paired. This dependence results in a pattern of choice that violates a stochastic form of transitivity.


Disgorgement of defendant's wrongful gains is an ancient remedy. It applies across a spectrum of contexts from trademark infringement to fiduciary duties, from common law to statutes, from public to private law. This remedy is not regarded as quintessential in American contract law. That is changing. My earlier work — as cited by the Supreme Court — predicted this shift based upon a new rule in the Restatement (Third) of Restitution and Unjust Enrichment. The rule operationalizes disgorgement of profits for opportunistic breaches of contract. This new conceptualization of precedent authorizes a gain-based remedy that exceeds the compensation goals of contract law's preferred, default remedy of expectancy damages. This remedy is bold and will affect the law of contracts, remedies, and restitution. I show, in a companion article, how state and federal courts resolve novel disgorgement requests for breach of contract claims. In the instant article, I examine an unusual endorsement of disgorgement by the Supreme Court sitting in original jurisdiction over the breach of a water-rights compact between states. Harnessing broad powers of equity jurisdiction, the Court adopts a $1.8 million disgorgement award exceeding compensation. It strips part of defendant's profits and stacks onto a compensatory award for losses sustained. Relying on the Restatement (much to Justice Scalia's chagrin), the Court permits disgorgement to deter defendant's knowingly exposing plaintiff to a substantial risk of breach. This provocative application offers a lens through which to explore broader questions: whether, when, and how the disgorgement remedy should apply to breach of contracts, whether public or private. I conclude that disgorgement is a valuable remedy for breach of contract, but judges must exercise reasoned discretion in application to proper facts and restraint in tying the measurement to causation. I also maintain that the inclusion of disgorgement in the stable of remedies broadens the scope of contract law to include inquiries and features typically associated with tort law. As in all of my remedies work, I argue remedies shape right — here: granting the remedy of disgorgement expands the shape of the underlying contract right in both public and private law.


The production of J/ψ and ψ(2S) was studied with the ALICE detector in Pb-Pb collisions at the LHC. The measurement was performed at forward rapidity (2.5 < y < 4) down to zero transverse momentum (pt) in the dimuon decay channel. Inclusive J/ψ yields were extracted in different centrality classes and the centrality dependence of the average pt is presented. The J/ψ suppression, quantified with the nuclear modification factor (RAA), was measured as a function of centrality, transverse momentum and rapidity. Comparisons with similar measurements at lower collision energy and theoretical models indicate that the J/ψ production is the result of an interplay between color screening and recombination mechanisms in a deconfined partonic medium, or at its hadronization. Results on the ψ(2S) suppression are provided via the ratio of ψ(2S) over J/ψ measured in pp and Pb-Pb collisions.


IMPORTANCE
Current acellular pertussis vaccines may not protect against transmission of Bordetella pertussis.

OBJECTIVE
To assess whether a priming dose of whole-cell pertussis (wP) vaccine is cost-effective at reducing pertussis infection in infants.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS
Mathematical model of pertussis transmission fit to US incidence data in a simulation of the US population. In this simulation study conducted from June 2014 to May 2015, the population was divided into 9 age groups corresponding to the current pertussis vaccination schedule and fit to 2012 pertussis incidence.

INTERVENTIONS
Inclusion of a priming dose of wP vaccine into the current acellular pertussis vaccination schedule.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES
Reductions in symptomatic pertussis incidence by age group, increases in wP vaccine-related adverse effects, and quality-adjusted life-years owing to changing vaccine schedule.

RESULTS
Switching to a wP-priming vaccination strategy could reduce whooping cough incidence by up to 95% (95% CI, 91-98), including 96% (95% CI, 92-98) fewer infections in neonates. Although there may be an increase in the number of vaccine adverse effects, we nonetheless estimate a 95% reduction in quality-adjusted life-years lost with a switch to the combined strategy and a cost reduction of 94% (95% CI, 91-97), saving more than $142 million annually.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE
Our results suggest that an alternative vaccination schedule including 1 dose of wP vaccine may be highly cost-effective and ethically preferred until next-generation pertussis vaccines become available.


Distance education is an empowering vehicle and provides access to higher education to a large segment of society. The need for distance education is felt due to the information explosion, population explosion and its in-built characteristic of cost effectiveness. Distance learning system is a boon for the learners who are self-motivated; belong to the marginalized or unprivileged groups and residents of remote places, physically impaired people, drop outs but willing to continue their study. It offers flexibility, autonomy to learners, and application of modern technology, cultivates the habit of independent learning in the absence of peer learning group and caters to the needs of heterogeneous group of learners. Thus, it could be concluded that this century is full of competition and there is lots of demand for interdisciplinary skills. Distance Education is boon to this era as it helps in continuous skills up gradation using latest technology.


In the St Cassian fauna of Late Triassic (Early Carnian) age gastropods with protoconch coiled in opposite direction to the teleoconch are common and belong to a number of quite different taxa. Twenty nine of these are here described, 11 of them for the first time: Promathilda misurinensis sp. nov., Turrithilda cassiana sp. nov., T. dockeryi sp. nov., Tirolthilda seelandica gen. et sp. nov., T. nuetzeli sp. nov., Tofanella cancellata sp. nov., Cristalloella cassiana gen. et sp. nov., C. sinuata sp. nov., C. delicata sp. nov., Stuorilda cassiana gen. et sp. nov., and S. tichyi sp. nov. All are newly defined and placed in the Mathildoidea. This connects the Triassic species of that superfamily with the modern Heterostropha (= Heterobranchia). In the family Mathildidae the genera Mathilda and Promathilda are differentiated, two species of Turrithilda described, and Tirolthilda and Schroederilda are included as new genera, with the type species T. seelandica gen. et sp. nov. and Pseudotritonium millierense Zardini, 1978, respectively. The new family Anoptychiidae holds the genera Anoptychia, Turristylus and Camponella gen. nov. (type species Coelostylina pianozensis Zardini, 1985). Here the juvenile ornament resembles that of the Mathildidae but differs from the later smooth teleoconch. Protoconch morphology differentiates the new families Tofanellidae, Trachoecidae and Ampezzanildidae. In contrast to the Mathildidae, Dolomitellidae and Anoptychiidae, the sinistral shell of the protoconch changes its direction of coiling within the larval part of the shell and not at the transition from larval shell to teleoconch. The Trachoecidae with the genera Trachoecus and Vallandroella gen. nov. (type species Tyrsoecus antorni Zardini, 1985) have a fusiniform shell. The Tofanellidae, with the genera Tofanella gen. nov. (type species Turritella decussata von Munster, 1841), Cristalloella gen. nov. (type species C. cassiana gen. et sp. nov.) and Camponaxis gen. nov. [type species Cerithium (?) lateplicatum Klipstein, 1843], differ from the Ampezzanildidae, with the genera Ampezzanilda gen. nov. (type species Promathildia aialensis Zardini, 1980), Cassianilda gen. nov. (type species Turritella margaritifera von Munster, 1841) and Stuorilda gen. nov. (type species S. cassiana gen. et sp. nov.), by the ornament of their protoconch. A key differentiates all described species, and the evolutionary history of the group is discussed.


S. aureus is the major bacterial cause of skin, soft tissue and bone infections, and one of the commonest causes of healthcare-associated bacteremia. Hospital-associated methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA) carriage is associated with an increased risk of infection, morbidity and mortality. Screening of high-risk patients at the time of hospital admission and decolonization has proved to be an important factor in an effort to reduce nosocomial transmission. The electronic database Pub Med was searched for all the articles on "Establishment of MRSA and the emergence of vancomycin-resistant S. aureus (VRSA)." The search included case reports, case series and reviews. All the articles were cross-referenced to search for any more available articles. A total of 88 references were obtained. The studies showed a steady increase in the number of vancomycin-intermediate and vancomycin-resistant S. aureus. Extensive use of vancomycin creates a selective pressure that favors the outgrowth of rare, vancomycin-resistant clones leading to heterogenous vancomycin intermediate S. aureus hVISA clones, and eventually, with continued exposure, to a uniform population of vancomycin-intermediate S. aureus (VISA) clones. However, the criteria for identifying hVISA strains have not been standardized, complicating any determination of their clinical significance and role in treatment failures. The spread of MRSA from the hospital to the community, coupled with the emergence of VISA and VRSA, has become major concern among healthcare providers. Infection-control measures, reliable laboratory screening for resistance, appropriate antibiotic prescribing practices and avoidance of blanket treatment can prevent long-term emergence of resistance.


SnO2 nanofibers were fabricated by calcination of the electrospun PVP/SnCl4 composite nanofibers. For the first time, SnS nanofibers and SnSe nanofibers were successfully synthesized by double-crucible sulfurization and selenidation methods via inheriting the morphology of SnO2 nanofibers used as precursors, respectively. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis shows SnS nanofibers and SnSe nanofibers are respectively pure orthorhombic phase with space group of Pbnm and Cmcm. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) observation indicates that the diameters of SnS nanofibers and SnSe nanofibers are respectively 140.54±12.80 nm and 96.52±14.17 nm under the 95 % confidence level. The photocatalytic activities of samples were studied by using rhodamine B (Rh B) as degradation agent. When SnS or SnSe nanofibers are employed as the photocatalysts, the respective degradation rates of Rh B solution under the ultraviolet light irradiation after 200 min irradiation are 92.55 % and 92.86 %. The photocatalytic mechanism and formation process of SnS and SnSe nanofibers are also provided. More importantly, this preparation technique is of universal significance to prepare other metal chalcogenides nanofibers.


Participation of civil society actors in the OMC process in one of dominant strands in current debate on the OMC. In this paper we aim to understand how social CSOs participate in the OMC inclusion; how participation changes the original role of CSOs in European policy making; and what kind of inter-organisational relations emerge between national and European CSOs. At the European level we study four European networks: EAPN, FEANTSA, Eurochild, and EDF. At the national level we analyse Lithuanian members of these European networks: EAPN Liyhuania, Caritas Lithuania, HRMI, and LNF. Our analysis is based on data that we obtained from interviews. In the case of European networks we also use documentary analysis on the basis of the networks' publication on the OMC. Our findings suggest that participation of European networks in the OMC processes is not homogeneous. The latter finding is an important factor in studying relation between European networks and national CSOs, and gives a background to question the validity of the hypothesis, which is present in the literature, that national CSOs' relations with European networks increase their mobilization around NAPs/NSR. In addition to that our findings shed light on difficulties that European networks face while participating in the OMC process, which apart from S. Kroger's attempts, were generally ignored in the literature. At the national level we do not find any procedural shifts regarding CSOs implications of participation in NAP/NSR process. Our study confirms that European networks' consultation and information providing role remains prevailing over collaboration and empowerment also in the OMC context. Meanwhile in the case of Lithuanian CSOs, there are signs that national OMC processes have created conditions for shaping more positive attitude on a governmental side, however they have not changed CSOs role essentially. Finally we find out that Lithuanian CSOs connection with European networks, as an important factor for mobilizing them around NAPs, was only partially true for Lithuanian case. In general terms the OMC's contribution to Europeanise Lithuanian CSOs is limited. Our finding suggest that validty of statements regarding CSOs participation in the OMC in the 'old' member have limited applicability for the new member states such as Lithuania, and thus indicates a need for a new research strand on European governance-civil society relations in Central and Eastern Europe.


To identify priority information needs for sea-level rise planning, we conducted workshops in Florida, North Carolina, and Massachusetts in the summer of 2012. Attendees represented professionals from five stakeholder groups: federal and state governments, local governments, universities, businesses, and nongovernmental organizations. Over 100 people attended and 96 participated in breakout groups. Text analysis was used to organize and extract most frequently occurring content from 16 total breakout groups. The most frequent key words/phrases were identified among priority topics within five themes: analytic tools, communications, land use, ecosystem management, and economics. Diverse technical and communication tools were identified to help effectively plan for change. In many communities, planning has not formally begun. Attendees sought advanced prediction tools yet simple messaging for decision-makers facing politically challenging planning questions. High frequency key words/phrases involved fine spatial scales and temporal scales of less than 50 years. Many needs involved communications and the phrase "simple messaging" appeared with the highest frequency. There was some evidence of geographic variation among regions. North Carolina breakout groups had a higher frequency of key words/phrases involving land use. The results reflect challenges and tractable opportunities for planning beyond current, geophysically brief, time scales (e.g., election cycles and mortgage periods).


V2+-doped KMgF3, KMnF3, RbMnF3, CsCaF3, CsCdCl3, and NaCl single crystals are analyzed with respect to their electronic properties and their suitability as laser material for vibronic-laser operation. All systems show broadband emission and together cover the spectral range between 1.9 and 0.9 μm. KMgF3, KMnF3, RbMnF3, and CsCaF3 have the potential for tunable pulsed- or cw-laser operation at room temperature, whereas laser emission with NaCl:V2+ may be expected below 200 K. The CsCaF3:V2+ material has been successfully operated between 1.24 and 1.33 μm.


Traditionally, the south Baltic region of Sweden has been seen as the breadbasket of the country. Still, due to comparably favorable production conditions, the region represents an important food production area and approximately 25% of the food that is produced in Sweden is produced in Skåne. Local and regional food may tie together the past and the future. Traditions and trends appear and disappear cyclic fashion and most of the Swedish food culture is affected by influences from other cultures and regions. A number of current Swedish consumer surveys point at the fact that the interest in local and regional food is large and growing. Previously, local and regional food was often marketed directly via farm shops or fairs but with an increasing consumer demand, most major food retail stores in Sweden offer at least a small range of products originating from the nearby region. The direct connection of foods and beverages to a specific region may mean new competitive abilities for old companies as well as inspiration for entrepreneurship, development and innovation.


Reform of retirement and health care entitlements is inevitable, but its ultimate format remains uncertain. Any entitlement reform should take advantage of the additional resources provided by economic growth and the rise in demand for and supply of older workers. Recognizing the potential from those two forces argues for constructing reforms aimed largely at three goals: better orientation of public-sector retirement resources to needier and older populations; removal of obstacles to increased employment of older workers; and private-pension reform that provides the long-sought second tier of support in older ages.


Nucleic acids, the "NA" in DNA and RNA, have long been known to be vitally important molecules within biological cells and organisms. However, they are interesting for more than just their known roles in biology: their predictable Watson-Crick base pairing properties allow nucleic acids to be powerful nanoscale engineering tools. Additionally, nucleic acid-based devices are particularly attractive as biotechnological tools, because nucleic acids naturally exist within all life, and thus nucleic acid devices more easily function in cellular environments. It is for these reasons that nucleic acids have emerged as a frequent star in recent synthetic biology, biotechnology, and nanotechnology research papers. This thesis is a collection of 6 experimental papers, 3 theoretical papers, and 1 review paper that demonstrate and characterize novel nucleic acid-based devices such as catalysts, logic gates, and allosteric switches. Particular effort was placed in ensuring that all the designs are generalizable in sequence and that all the devices are modular in nature; this allows many different components to be integrated into higher-complexity devices. The works presented in this thesis were designed using only non-covalent changes to nucleic acid complexes and structures via Watson-Crick base pairing--i.e. hybridization, branch migration, and dissociation. These three primitives are sufficient to construct an endless variety of circuits and devices, much like how resistors, capacitors, and inductors allow complex electrical circuits. One advantage of devices, reactions, and circuits engineered using only Watson-Crick interactions is their robustness to their environmental conditions. While enzymatic reactions require specific temperatures, salt conditions, and co-factors, nucleic acid hybridization works reliably in a variety of different solutions. These works are not meant to be final, optimized designs for devices, but rather demonstrations of the wide range of possibilities afforded by nucleic acid engineering and of problems that can be practically solved with dynamic nucleic acid devices in the near future.