Objective : To assess the role of transcranial Doppler (TCD) scanning in assessing the risk of stroke in children with haemoglobin SC (HbSC) disease. TCD scanning has an established role in primary stroke prevention in sickle cell anaemia but its value in HbSC is unknown. Design : A retrospective audit of routinely performed TCD scans and routinely collected clinical data. Setting : A paediatric sickle cell clinic in a teaching hospital in south London, UK. Patients : 46 children with HbSC disease who have undergone routinely performed TCD scans and steady-state blood tests. Main outcome measures: The time-averaged mean of the maximum velocity (TAMMV) in the middle cerebral artery circulation correlated with clinical and laboratory data. Results: The mean TAMMV was 94 cm/s, with a 98th centile of 128 cm/s. This is significantly less than the published ranges for HbSS, with a mean reading of 129 cm/s. One child had a stroke at the age of 5 years, when her TAMMV was measured at 146 cm/s. Conclusions: Further studies are needed to assess stroke risk in HbSC disease, but we suggest that TCD measurements are potentially useful in this condition, and that readings greater than 128 cm/s are abnormally high and warrant further investigation.


In a previous paper [6] we described the application of geo experiments to the measurement of advertising effectiveness. One reason this method of measurement is attractive is that it provides the rigor of a randomized experiment. However, related decisions, such as where and how to spend advertising budget, are not static. To address this issue, we extend this methodology to provide periodic (ongoing) measurement of ad effectiveness. In this approach, the test and control assignments of each geographic region rotate across multiple test periods, and these rotations provide the opportunity to generate a sequence of measurements of campaign effectiveness. The data across test periods can also be pooled to create a single aggregate measurement of campaign effectiveness. These sequential and pooled measurements have smaller confidence intervals than measurements from a series of geo experiments with a single test period. Alternatively, the same confidence interval can be achieved with a reduced magnitude and/or duration of ad spend change, thereby lowering the cost of measurement. The net result is a better method for periodic and isolated measurement of ad effectiveness.


OBJECTIVE
To explore the association between caries indices in primary and permanent dentition and socioeconomic indicators at the individual and ecologic levels in 6-12 year old children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS
A comparative analysis of two datasets depicting oral health status in Campeche, México, with 2,939 children distributed equally by age and sex, was carried out. Oral health indices were contrasted at different cut-off points in primary and permanent dentitions (dmft, DMFT, dmft+DMFT and SiC indices) with independent variables such as place of residence (urban, marginal-urban) and mother's highest level of schooling (years of formal education) as socioeconomic variables (SES), as well as other sociodemographic variables using models of binary logistic regression in STATA 8.2.

RESULTS
The mean age was 8.85 +/- 1.83 years and 56.6% were girls. Nine models were generated in which changes in socioeconomic variables were linked to changes in oral health features in this community (both in terms of prevalence and severity), except for DMFT > 0 at 12 years of age.

CONCLUSIONS
In general, children of lower SES had greater caries experience and higher caries severity, in both primary and permanent dentitions. The relationships between oral health disparities and independent variables were confirmed in children living in geographically contiguous areas.


Compliance with environmental radiological standards
promulgated to limit routine releases from nuclear facilities
is usually determined through the use of mathematical models which are subject to considerable uncertainty. One way of
estimating the uncertainty associated with model predictions is through an analysis of the statistical properties of their
input parameters. This report presents results of such analyses for parameters incorporated in U.S. Nuclear
Regulatory Commission (NRC) Regulatory Guide 1.109. Approximately 200 references are reviewed and the distribution of
values associated with input parameters is quantified. The
results are used to estimate the uncertainty in dose prediction resulting from a given concentration of l 3 1 I 2 in air
transported over the pasture-cow-milk pathway. The NRC
recommended generic default values are compared with the
statistical distribution of the selected parameters, and
the probability of the default values not being exceeded is estimated. The results reported herein provide an estimation of actual uncertainties to be expected under
real-world conditions in lieu of validation experiments.
The relevance of these results to the true uncertainties
associated with the parameters and models analyzed in this
report is limited because of the qualifying assumptions and the quality of data. However, methods of taking results
from these analyses into account when determining compliance
with regulatory statutes are discussed.


Abstract This paper analyses the distributive impacts of internal violent conflicts, in contrast to previous literature which has focused on the effects of inequality on conflict. We use cross-country panel data for the time period 1960–2014 to estimate war-related changes in income inequality. Our results indicate rising levels of inequality during war and especially in the early period of post-war reconstruction. The return of inequality to pre-war levels may take up to four decades after the end of conflict. However, we find that this rise in income inequality is not permanent. While inequality peaks around 5 years after the end of a conflict, it declines again to pre-war levels within the end of the first post-war period. Lagged effects of conflict and only subsequent adjustments of redistributive policies in the period of post-war reconstruction seem to be valid explanations for these patterns of inequality. A series of alternative specifications confirms the main findings of the analysis.


Composite samples of intact grape berries were collected weekly from veraison until harvest. Each sample comprised ~400 berries selected following the preharvest row sampling protocol specified by the vineyard manager. The grape cultivars and corresponding number of samples of each collected in 2009 and 2010 were as follows: Cabernet Sauvignon (43, 36), Cabernet franc (83, 80), and Syrah (38, 36). Reflectance spectra for the composite samples in a wavelength range of 350 to 850 nm were collected with a diode array spectrometer. Chemical analyses for soluble solids content, Brix, pH, titratable acidity (TA), total phenols, and total anthocyanins were carried out for all samples. Chemometric calibrations for corresponding reflectance data were developed using trained partial least squares regression models with several preprocessing methods (smoothing, normalization, differentiation) and subjected to variable selection by recursive feature elimination. Trained models were externally validated with data from the alternate year. Best performing models for Brix, pH, TA, phenols, and anthocyanins in 2009 had root mean square errors (RMSEP) of 0.65, 0.05, 0.59 g/L, 31.2 mg/L, and 75 mg/L, respectively, with corresponding R2 values of 0.84, 0.58, 0.56, 0.27 and 0.65. The best 2010 models had RMSEP of 0.65, 0.05, 0.86 g/L, 27.9 mg/L, and 111 mg/L, respectively, with corresponding R2 values of 0.89, 0.81, 0.58, 0.25, and 0.17. The 2009 calibrations were used for estimating Brix and pH from spectral data of the samples collected in the next growing season and yielded RMSEP performance of 0.87 and 0.05 and R2 values of 0.71 and 0.56, respectively. Principal component analysis decomposition of 2009 and 2010 reflectance data showed similarities in the resultant loadings, indicating a similar underlying data structure.


PURPOSE
To characterize treatments for ovarian cancer, to determine if recommended staging and treatment were provided, and to determine factors that influence receipt of recommended staging and treatment.

METHODS
A total of 785 women diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 1991 were selected from the National Cancer Institute (NCI) Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) program. Type and receipt of recommended staging and treatment were examined using data on surgery and physician-verified chemotherapy.

RESULTS
Most women with presumptive stage I and II ovarian cancer were treated with surgery alone (58%), while women with stage III or IV disease were treated with surgery plus platinum-based chemotherapy (75% stage III, 56% stage IV). Approximately 10% of women with presumptive stage I and II, 71% with stage III, and 53% with stage IV disease received recommended staging and treatment. The absence of lymphadenectomy and assignment of histologic grade were the primary reasons women with presumptive stage I and II cancer did not receive recommended staging and treatment, whereas for stages III and IV, it was due to older women not receiving surgery plus platinum-based adjuvant chemotherapy. Age, stage, comorbidity, "other" race/ethnicity, and treatment at a facility with an approved residency training program were associated with whether recommended staging and therapy were received.

CONCLUSION
Older women with late-stage disease did not receive recommended treatment. The majority of women with early-stage disease did not receive recommended staging and treatment.


A contact-aided compliant mechanism (CCM) called a compliant spine (CS) is presented in this paper. It is flexible when bending in one direction and stiff when bending in the opposite direction, giving it a nonlinear bending stiffness. The fundamental element of this mechanism is a compliant joint (CJ), which consists of a compliant hinge (CH) and contact surfaces. The design of the compliant joint and the number of compliant joints in a compliant spine determine its stiffness. This paper presents the design and optimization of such a compliant spine. A multi-objective optimization problem with three objectives is formulated in order to perform the design optimization of the compliant spine. The goal of the optimization is to minimize the peak stress and mass while maximizing the deflection, subject to geometric and other constraints. Flapping wing unmanned air vehicles, also known as ornithopters, are used as a case study in this paper to test the accuracy of the design optimization procedure and to prove the efficacy of the compliant spine design. The optimal compliant spine designs obtained from the optimization procedure are fabricated, integrated into the ornithopter's wing leading edge spar, and flight tested. Results from the flight tests prove the ability of the compliant spine to produce an asymmetry in the ornithopter's wing kinematics during the up and down strokes.


Aim/Purpose This article investigates thirteen students' lived experiences on an online PhD programme, aiming to develop a better understanding of the nature of doing a PhD online. Background A large number of adult students with full-time professional roles and other social responsibilities have returned to universities to pursue their doctoral degree in order to advance their personal and professional lives. Online PhD programmes are now one of the viable choices for those who wish to combine their PhD study with other professional and personal roles. However, little has been known about students' lived experiences of doing a PhD online, which are seemingly different from those of other doctoral students who are doing their studies in more conventional doctoral education settings. Methodology The present qualitative study employs a phenomenological approach to develop an in-depth understanding of doctoral students' lived experiences in doing their PhD studies online. The present study was conducted in an online PhD programme at a Department of Education in a research-intensive university based in the United Kingdom (UK). Thirteen students voluntarily participated in a semi-structured interview. The interview transcripts were analysed following Van Manen's (2016) explanations for conducting a thematic analysis. Contribution The paper presents seven themes that illustrate the essential nature of doing a PhD online, answering the two questions: (1)What are the lived experiences of online PhD students? and (2) What are the particular aspects of the programme that structure the experiences? Findings The characteristics of online PhD studies are multifaceted, including different elements of PhD education, part-time education, and online education. Those aspects interact and create a unique mode of educational experiences. In a more specific sense, the journey of an online PhD – from the moment of choosing to do a PhD online to the moment of earning a PhD – is guided by multiple, often conflicting, aspects of different doctoral education models such as the professional doctorate, the research doctorate, and the taught doctorate. The present study demonstrates that experiential meanings of doing a PhD online are constructed by the dynamic interplay between the following six elements: PhDness, onlineness, part-timeness, cohortness, practice-orientedness, and independence. Throughout the long journey, students become better practitioners and more independent researchers, engaging in multiple scholarly activities. Recommendations for Practitioners It is essential to understand the unique characteristics and experiences of PhD students who choose to pursue a PhD in online programmes. Based on the understanding, online doctoral educators can provide adequate academic supports suitable for this particular group. The study findings highlight the importance of supporting students' adjustment to a new learning environment at the beginning of the programme and their transition from Part 1 to Part 2. Recommendation for Researchers It is crucial to develop a separate set of narratives about online PhD education. Common assumptions drawn from our existing knowledge about more conventional doctoral education are not readily applicable in this newly emerging online education setting. Impact on Society It is important for online PhD students and potential ones in the planning stage to better understand the nature of doing a PhD online. Given the growing popularity of doctoral education, our findings based on the reflective narratives of thirteen online PhD students in this paper can support their informed decision and successful learning experiences. Future Research A comparative study can more closely examine similarities and differences among diverse models of doctoral education to capture the uniqueness of online PhD programmes. It is worthwhile to investigate students' experiences in online PhD programmes in disciplines other than education. A more longitudinal approach to following an entire journey of PhD students can be useful to develop a more comprehensive and holistic understanding of an online PhD. Some critical questions about students' scholarly identity that emerged from the present study remain unanswered. A follow-up phenomenological research can focus on the existential meanings of being a scholar to this group of students.


This study presents a new inventory to assess thought-action fusion (TAF). 160 college students ages 18 to 22 (M = 19.17, SD = 1.11) completed the new Modified Thought Action Scale (MTAFS). Results indicated high internal consistency in the MTAFS (Cronbach's α = .95). A principal component analysis suggested a three factor solution of TAF-Moral (TAFM), TAFLikelihood (TAFL), and TAF-Harm avoidance-Positive (TAFHP) all with eigenvalues above 1, and factor loadings above .4. A second study examined the association between TAF, obsessivecompulsive and anxiety tendencies after the activation of TAF-like thought processes in a nonclinical sample (n=76). Subjects were randomly assigned to one of three treatment groups intended to provoke TAFL-self, TAFL-other, and TAF moral thought processes. Stepwise regression analyses revealed: 1) the Obsessive-Compulsive Inventory subscales Neutralizing and Ordering significantly predicted instructed neutralization behavior (INB) in non-clinical participants; 2) TAF-Likelihood contributed significant unique variance in INB. These findings suggest that the provocation of neutralization behavior may be mediated by specific subsets of TAF and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. TAF and Neutralization


Following the recently reported trapping of biological particles by finely focused laser beams, we report on the automated micromanipulation of cells and other microscopic particles by purely optical means as well as on a newly observed interaction between particles in the trapping beam. A simple instrument is described which allows single cells to be positioned with high accuracy, transported over several millimeters, and automatically sorted on the basis of their optical properties. These operations are performed inside a small enclosed chamber without mechanical contact or significant fluid flow. Potential applications of this technique in experimental cell biology are discussed.


In Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) patients, a diversity of clinical and hematological parameters has been examined for possible value in calculating treatment response and survival. The study was conducted at National Institute of Bone Diseases, Karachi (NIBD), Sind, Pakistan, a tertiary care and teaching hospital, affiliated with Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences, Jamshoro. This study included 107 cases of de novo AML, both male and female patients of ages between 10-60 years were selected randomly. The clinical features included fever, weakness, loss of weight, vomiting, bleeding gums, liver and spleen enlargement, lymph node enlargement. The Laboratory investigations included CBC (Complete Blood Count) specifically heamoglobin percentage, total leucocyte count, platelet count and blast count: peripheral blood smears, bone marrow aspiration biopsy, trephine biopsy, cytochemistry (Myeloperoxidase Staining, Immunohistochemistry (CD markers)) and DNA extraction for genetic sequencing. Percentage, validity and cumulative index were calculated of all parameters. It was found that about 70% of AML patients were adults and FAB subtype M2 of acute myeloid leukemia was more prevalent than other subtypes, followed by AML, M1.


Employee engagement has been a popular concept among business practitioners, while in the academic literature, the concept remains relatively new. In order to compete effectively, companies must inspire employees to apply their full capabilities to their jobs and perform at a top level. Employees who are energetic and dedicated to their work can make a true difference for companies that want to create a highly efficient and productive organization (Bakker & Leiter, 2010). Given that practical interest in work engagement has surpassed the available research evidence, questions such as what impacts employee engagement and how it benefits individuals and organizations, still require answers. This study set out to test competing models of employee engagement in order to provide a deeper understanding of the antecedents and outcomes influencing this concept. Specifically, this study provided theory-based empirical evidence regarding the impact job characteristics organizational culture have on work engagement (Schaufeli et al., 2002) and vigor (Shirom, 2003). This study also investigated how work engagement and vigor impact presenteeism and turnover intentions. Data were collected from 273 accountant professionals in Canada, and confirmatory factor analyses and structural equation modeling were used to test the premises of this study. When testing the hypothesized models, work engagement was better grounded in theory than vigor. Further examination of the results also showed that job characteristics had a large impact on work engagement and vigor, and these variables were found to have a negative relationship with presenteeism. This study's findings have significant practical and theoretical implication. First, this study supported the factor structure and model fit of the three-factor work engagement. This Employee Engagement – Model Comparison v study also provides a clearer picture of how work engagement and vigor are associated with their antecedents and outcomes. This study's findings also identify the rising influence of professional groups in how antecedents impact work engagement and vigor, and to what degree. Overall, this study points to new directions in the employee engagement research, and succeeds in supporting the premise that employee engagement is a concept in its own right. Employee Engagement – Model Comparison vi TABLE OF CONTENTS DECLARATION OF ORIGINALITY ........................................................................................ iii ABSTRACT .................................................................................................................................. iv FIGURES AND TABLES ............................................................................................................. x CHAPTER I ...................................................................................................................................


In November 2015, protests erupted in Oxford in response to the decision of the Oxfordshire County Council to cut, among other things, forty-four Children's Centres and seven Early Intervention Hubs. The debate about whether these centres could be considered as disposable or not did not get to an agreement. I argue that the main cause of this outcome is that the opposing arguments were based on moral positions that were not only incompatible but fundamentally incommensurable. Those in favour of reducing deficit spending argue that cuts to social services (including family and children services) are unavoidable. Parents, however, refuse to accept austerity measures that will undermine the rights of their children to access services that will improve their chances in life. Neither position is based on incontrovertible evidence. On the one hand, the decision to cut a given service always involves the arbitrary evaluation of that service against other services that will not be cut. On the other, the demand to fund those services is based on the hope that early intervention initiatives will benefit children, even if the evidence that early intervention works is unconclusive or thin. On the basis of a thematic analysis of twenty-seven stories written by Oxfordshire parents, I interpret this conflict using the notion of moral economy, and argue that such an approach allows an appreciation of the link between health economics, perinatal mental health, the morality of parenting, and the early intervention discourse.


Human-robot collaboration will increasingly take place in human social settings, including contexts where ethical and honest behavior is paramount. How might these robots affect human honesty? In this paper, we present first evidence of how a robot's presence affects people's ethical behavior in a controlled field study. We observed people passing by a food plate marked as "reserved", comparing three conditions: no observer, a human observer, and a robot observer. We found that a human observer elicits less attention than a robot, but evokes more of a socially normative presence causing people to act honestly. Conversely, we found that a robot observer elicits more attention, engagement, and a monitoring presence. But even though people were suspicious that they were being monitored, they still behaved dishonestly in the robot observer condition.


Polyhydroxyamide (PHA) and polymethoxyamide (PMeOA) are fire-retardant (FR) thermoplastic polymers and have been found to be useful as an additive for imparting fire retardant properties to other compatible, thermoplastic polymers (including some elastomers). Examples of compatible flammable polymers include nylons, polyesters, and acrylics. Unlike most prior additives, PHA and PMeOA do not appreciably degrade the mechanical properties of the matrix polymer; indeed, in some cases, mechanical properties are enhanced. Also, unlike some prior additives, PHA and PMeOA do not decompose into large amounts of corrosive or toxic compounds during combustion and can be processed at elevated temperatures. PMeOA derivative formulations were synthesized and used as an FR additive in the fabrication of polyamide (PA) and polystyrene (PS) composites with notable reduction (>30 percent for PS) in peak heat release rates compared to the neat polymer as measured by a Cone Calorimeter (ASTM E1354). Synergistic effects were noted with nanosilica composites. These nanosilica composites had more than 50-percent reduction in peak heat release rates. In a typical application, a flammable thermoplastic, thermoplastic blend, or elastomer that one seeks to render flameretardant is first dry-mixed with PHA or PMeOA or derivative thereof. The proportion of PHA or PMeOA or derivative in the mixture is typically chosen to lie between 1 and 20 weight percent. The dry blend can then be melt-extruded. The extruded polymer blend can further be extruded and/or molded into fibers, pipes, or any other of a variety of objects that may be required to be fire-retardant. The physical and chemical mechanisms which impart flame retardancy of the additive include inhibiting free-radical oxidation in the vapor phase, preventing vaporization of fuel (the polymer), and cooling through the formation of chemical bonds in either the vapor or the condensed phase. Under thermal stress, the cyclic hydroxyl/methoxy component forms polybenzoxazole (PBO) in a reaction that absorbs heat from its surroundings. PBO under thermal stress cross-links, forming a protective char layer, which thermally insulates the polymer. Thus, the formation of the char layer further assists to extinguish the fire by preventing vaporization of the polymeric fuel. This work was done by Martha K. Williams and Trent M. Smith of Kennedy Space Center. For further information, contact the Kennedy Innovative Partnerships Office at (321) 861-7158. KSC-12697


The twenty first century student demands more from universities in terms of engagement that is flexible, accessible and immediate. This means universities revisiting their engagement agenda at a time when financial constraints can least afford expensive technologies and resource dependent engagement solutions. Solutions are likely to be varied however they must fundamentally deliver what students expect in terms of engagement. Engagement requires a partnership between academe and student body, but often this relationship is a tension between what universities want to deliver, and what students expect to receive. This complex environment of constraint, tension and expectation means that solutions will be tested by both parties on those variables. In pursuit of solutions it is presumed that there could be a 'middle ground' that would be acceptable to both parties. The aim of this paper is to present the concept of 'middle ground' engagement, where parties engage in learning using a simple, cost effective and easily accessible communication tool. 'Middle ground' is an emerging concept informed by results from a study of student communication, interaction and social learning. It enables freedom of movement for the user to communicate, engage and participate with others. The tool tested in the study is not a formal learning space such as a VLE, or a branded social space such as facebook, but rather a flexible, social learning environment allowing simultaneous access to social networking sites and formal academic space. The subsequent challenge is to shape and roll out a communication tool that is 'middle ground'.


Background: As preterm and term infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) undergo multiple stressful/painful procedures, research is required that addresses chronic stress. Objectives: To determine whether (a) hair cortisol levels differed between term and preterm infants exposed to stress in the NICU and (b) an association exists between hair cortisol levels and severity of illness or indicators of acute stress. Methods: Hair cortisol levels were determined using the ELISA method (solid-phase enzyme-linked immunoassay, Alpco Diagnostics, Windham, N.H., USA) in 60 infants >25 weeks gestational age at birth. Results: No significant differences were found between the hair cortisol levels of term infants compared to preterm infants in the NICU. When compared to a group of healthy term infants, hospitalized infants had significantly higher hair cortisol levels (t (76) = 2.755, p = 0.004). A subgroup analysis of the term NICU infants showed a statistically significant association between total number of ventilator days and hair cortisol levels. For every extra day on the ventilator, hair cortisol levels increased on average by 0.2 nmol/g (p = 0.03). 21% of the variance in hair cortisol levels was explained by the total number of days on the ventilator. Conclusions: Hair cortisol is influenced by days of ventilation in NICU term infants. This is a potentially valid outcome for chronic neonatal stress in these infants and warrants further investigation.


Chloride cells are mitochondria-rich ion-transporting cells (ionocytes) that secrete chloride from epithelial surfaces. The origin and differentiation of presumptive chloride-secreting cells in Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) were studied by a combination of light and electron microscopy. -- By examination of available literature data, in conjunction with data collected from the present study, estimates of the effect of temperature on hatching time in the Atlantic cod were made. Subsequently, methods for the localization of chloride cells were developed, and compared with classical methods of staining ionocytes. Ionocytes were stained using conventional mitochondrial dyes, potential-sensitive fluorescent mitochondrial dyes (including styryl and rhodamine dyes, and a novel aldehyde-fixable rhodamine derivative), a fluorescent probe for the Na⁺, K⁺-ATPase (the ouabain derivative, anthroyl-ouabain), a cardiolipin-specific probe (nonyl-acridine orange), tetracycline, a lipophilic membrane probe (DiOC₆(3)), and conventional precipitation methods for ion localization. -- Staining methods were used to examine the gradual differentiation of ionocytes from mitochondria-rich precursor cells. This information was applied to the analysis of chloride cell differentiation from the embryonic stages through to maturity. -- The development of Atlantic cod embryos and larvae was then observed under various salinity and temperature conditions, and in the presence of hormone or vitamin-supplemented media, to determine the potential role of exogenous factors on the timing of chloride cell differentiation. -- A variety of secretory cells, including sacciform, goblet and ionocytes, developed in the epidermis of cod embryos and larvae. In the embryo, ionocytes first appeared on the yolk sac and buccal/gill (oropharyngeal) cavity epithelium. Such cells were lenticular, and often had a large multilobed nucleus. Some appeared to be binucleate. Beyond yolk sac absorption, ionocytes appeared on the gill filament epithelium, and were retained on the oropharyngeal epithelia, but not the abdominal region. In postmetamorphic stages, oropharyngeal ionocytes become elongate and traversed epithelia that were several cells thick. -- Although some experimental treatments delayed or accelerated rates of embryo development, yolk sac chloride cell differentiation appeared to occur after epiboly completion in all cases. The pattern of distribution of chloride cells in the later embryonic and larval stages appeared to be a result of migration of undifferentiated cells over the surface of the yolk sac and into the pharyngeal cavity. This migration probably occurs through pharyngeal 'pores', the embryonic precursors of the openings to the adult gill chambers, and is ultimately responsible for the recruitment of epithelial cells (including chloride cells) by the developing gill filaments.


It is argued that a true transdisciplinary information science going from physical information to phenomenological understanding needs a metaphysical framework. Three different kinds of causality are implied: efficient, formal and final. And at least five different levels of existence are needed: 1. The quantum vacuum fields with entangled causation. 2. The physical level with is energy and force-based efficient causation. 3. The informational-chemical level with its formal causation based on pattern fitting. 4. The biological-semiotic level with its non-conscious final causation and 5. The social-linguistic level of self-consciousness with its conscious goal-oriented final causation. To integrate these consistently in an evolutionary theory as emergent levels, neither mechanical determinism nor complexity theory are sufficient because they cannot be a foundation for a theory of lived meaning. C. S. Peirce's triadic semiotic philosophy combined with a cybernetic and systemic view, like N. Luhmann's, could create the framework I call Cybersemiotics.


Managers and other key staff involved in the development of Swedish e-government services were interviewed about their perceptions of changes caused by the shift from more traditional forms of government service delivery. Almost all were satisfied with the progress of the transition. It was felt that a shift to systems that are electronically based will result in economies and greater organizational efficiency. When questioned about potential problems, most felt they were manageable. However, they did not describe strategies indicating that problems were being addressed and managed. Focus was on getting functioning systems in place and then resolving with problems as identified. Evident was that issues such as being able to effectively evaluate progress/success, creating systems accessible by all potential users, information security, understanding costs and planning for rapid technology change were being minimized or ignored. Apparent is that until the issues are adequately addressed final cost is unknown, e-government systems will not by accessible by some citizens because they lack the skills and/or resources needed to take advantage of services offered, and the extent of change is unclear. Recommended is to better define real and potential problems and then to include solutions in e-government planning, design and implementation processes.


Informed by a social constructionist approach, this article reviews and evaluates the research literature on elderly immigrants in Sweden, shedding light on how a specific category is created and comes to be regarded as a social problem. There is a pervasive 'problematisation' of elderly immigrants in Sweden. The paper argues that a social category of 'elderly immigrants' has been constructed among those concerned with elderly care and policy, even though there is ample evidence that the elderly group is exceptionally diverse and that, apart from a non-Swedish background, the various constituent groups have little in common. They have nonetheless been consistently approached as if they were an easily identifiable and homogeneous social category posing an unusual challenge for elderly-care planners and providers. Thus, as a socially constructed 'problem', these elders seem to have become yet another 'Other' in Swedish society.


Inductive sensors are used worldwide for traffic control. These sensors consist of a loop or loops of wire embedded in the pavement. The loops are connected to electronic control circuits that convert changes in loop inductance to signals to control traffic lights or to monitor traffic. This work describes a simulation approach that permits reliable calculation of the response of loops of various geometries to various types of vehicles. The simulation models both the loop and the vehicles with a set of filaments of finite length. The simulation approach was validated using two different loop geometries and various types of vehicles. The simulation was developed to assist in the selection of a loop geometry for a particular application or to assess the likely behavior of hypothetical loops. As it is based on a fundamental description of the vehicle-loop interaction, the simulation approach is also expected to be useful in other investigations of loop responses.


The Raven's Advanced Progressive Matrices (APM) test is a leading global nonverbal measure of mental ability, helping to identify individuals with advanced observation and clear thinking skills who can handle rigorous study programmes as well as the complexity and ambiguity of the modern workplace. APM scale is largely employed by researchers and practitioners in the field of psychometrics, education, medicine and the social sciences. A sample of 3100 participants in Nigeria was randomly drawn to answer nine research questions. Triangulation research design, adopting item response theory (IRT) guided the study. The study developed an abridged form of the APM dubbed Advanced Progressive Matrices-Smart Version (APM-SV). Results revealed that all 15 items of the APM-SV test yield favourable statistics under 3-Parameter Logistic IRT Model with regards to item discrimination, difficulty and guessing. Item Response Function showed preponderance of APM-SV's reliability of 0.92. The APM-SV showed perfect fit, is bias-free and very suitable for use in Nigeria. APM-SV scale strongly and positively correlated well with other measures of fluid ability such as the APM scale itself, CFIT, Digit Span scale, and Bennett Mechanical Comprehension Test (BMCT).


The purpose of this study is to better understand how the complex problem of human trafficking is addressed in international debates. How the discussion about human trafficking develops and how it is debated ultimately influences how the decision-making process unfolds. In order to understand the formation of public policy and laws, therefore, it is important to study the debate that occurs prior to decision making. This analysis focuses on the narratives used by major, well-established human rights and political actors that argue for necessary actions to be undertaken—such as the formation of new policies and laws in the European Union—as an attempt to protect citizens of the EU and other regions in the world from becoming victims of trafficking networks. Our research examines how the topic of human trafficking is framed and how this framework is intertwined in the debate with other social problems . We focus on how human trafficking is discussed by two well-established human rights Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Amnesty International (Amnesty) and Human Rights Watch (HRW), in addition to the European Parliament (EP). The research questions for this study include: (1) In what context is human trafficking discussed by the three actors? (2) How do these actors frame the definition of human trafficking in their presentations? To answer these questions, we have conducted a systematic content analysis of documents that include official statements and research reports of the NGOs, as well as resolutions and recommendations of the EP. Altogether, 240 documents were analyzed in detail. These findings indicate that the two human rights organizations, Amnesty and Human Rights Watch, along with the European Parliament, all address human trafficking as an important social problem, albeit to varying degrees. Each actor has a different method of correlating human trafficking with many other social problems, thereby emphasizing different causes and effects. In our analysis, we examine the concept of framing and, in particular, responsibility framing in order to understand the causal relationships between actors and events. The findings of this study suggest that the formation of various social policies and laws in the international political forum are deeply affected by the dynamic interrelatedness between the political issues, actors, and form and content of the debates about human trafficking that precede the formation or revision of a policy and law.


This paper explores the Mental Toughness model in a coaching process. Mental Toughness, a narrow personality trait, recently emerged as a significant factor in defining and measuring individual's mind-set and attitude. Authors argue that one of the key elements contributing to building successful coaching rapport with a coachee as well as to set a coachee onto a coaching journey is to understand the mental toughness level of the client. This paper will also explain what Mental Toughness is and its applications to all walks of life.


This paper summarizes the main findings of the GLAMUR project which starts with an apparently simple question: is "local" more sustainable than "global"? Sustainability assessment is framed within a post-normal science perspective, advocating the integration of public deliberation and scientific research. The assessment spans 39 local, intermediate and global supply chain case studies across different commodities and countries. Assessment criteria cover environmental, economic, social, health and ethical sustainability dimensions. A closer view of the food system demonstrates a highly dynamic local–global continuum where actors, while adapting to a changing environment, establish multiple relations and animate several chain configurations. The evidence suggests caution when comparing "local" and "global" chains, especially when using the outcomes of the comparison in decision-making. Supply chains are analytical constructs that necessarily—and arbitrarily—are confined by system boundaries, isolating a set of elements from an interconnected whole. Even consolidated approaches, such as Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), assess only a part of sustainability attributes, and the interpretation may be controversial. Many sustainability attributes are not yet measurable and "hard" methodologies need to be complemented by "soft" methodologies which are at least able to identify critical issues and trade-offs. Aware of these limitations, our research shows that comparing local and global chains, with the necessary caution, can help overcome a priori positions that so far have characterized the debate between "localists" and "globalists". At firm level, comparison between "local" and "global" chains could be useful to identify best practices, benchmarks, critical points, and errors to avoid. As sustainability is not a status to achieve, but a never-ending process, comparison and deliberation can be the basis of a "reflexive governance" of food chains.


The news media are the most influential sources of information, ideas and opinion for most people around the world. Who appears in the news and who is left out, what is covered and what is not and how people and events are portrayed matter. Research has consistently shown that women are underrepresented in the news and that gender stereotypes are reinforced in and through the media. The 1995 Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action recognised the relationship between women and media as a major area of concern in achieving gender equality in contemporary societies. This article presents Nordic findings from the 2015 Global Media Monitoring Project (GMMP), which is the largest and longest-running study on gender in the world's media. The findings show that women account for only 1 in 5 of the people interviewed or reported on by Icelandic news media and that women's overall presence in the news has declined compared to the last GMMP study in 2010. The proportion of women as news subjects is also considerably lower than in other Nordic countries. We argue that the number of women who are journalists, managers in the media industry and decision makers in society has increased, but this shift has not automatically changed the representation of women in the news, either in numbers or in their portrayal. This discrepancy indicates that the relationship between gender and the news media is complicated and needs to be approached from different perspectives.


Abstract. In the past decades, catastrophic natural disasters such as storms and hurricanes have impacted millions of people around the world: around 33 million of people are affected per year between 2007 and 2016 (Bellow and Wallemacq, 2018). For instance, hurricane Katrina (USA, 2015) caused catastrophic damage from central Florida to Eastern Texas, at least 1836 people died and total property damage was estimated at 125 billion dollars. Furthermore, climate change is likely to increase frequency of most intense categories of hurricanes in some parts of the world and is expected to increase sea levels, leading to more destructive storm surges when hurricanes occur (IPCC, 2013). In the same time, growing populations and rising incomes are expected to place more people and property in harm's way.Depending on their nature and severity, disasters can create large volumes of debris and waste (Brown et al., 2011). In some cases, debris volume from a single event were the equivalent of 5–15 times the annual waste generation rates of the affected community (Reinhart and McCreanor, 1999). Often, the debris removal process takes months or even years to treated (Pramudita et al., 2014). In France, storm Xynthia (2010) waste generation was equivalent to about 12 normal years (CEPRI, 2012). Thus, waste can overwhelm existing solid management facilities and the presence of disaster waste impacts almost every aspect of an emergency response and recovery effort (Brown et al., 2011). For instance, in the immediate response, disaster debris can cause road blockages. Moreover, if poorly managed, the waste can have significant environmental and public health impacts (Brown et al., 2011), such as water and air pollution.In this paper we present the Depos data modelling (named Depos-model) to improve the management of debris and waste after hurricanes. In the Depos project, funded by the French research agency (ANR), we intend to understand the process of waste management thanks to testimonies on previous hurricanes and to propose a digital modelling of waste management. In the following we do not distinguish debris and waste. The case study is the French west Indies (composed of different territories including the Guadeloupe and Martinique) and the very first island to study is the Island of Saint Martin in the Caribbean Sea where Irma hurricane (2017) had huge impact. This hurricane was the most powerful ever recorded hurricane in Atlantic with sustainable winds of nearly 300 km/h, with a gust to 360 km/h. The research work began with a study from the association Robin des Bois to describe and estimate waste after Irma on Saint Martin. These experts were questioned to identify the key entities and actors involved in hurricane waste management. We set a first data modelling that will be questioned and improved during the next 2 years. The depos-model should be able 1- to replay what occurred during a previous hurricane, 2- to simulate different situations on fictive hurricanes and hopefully 3- to be used after a future hurricane to improve waste management. In this paper we do not include the actors although they are key elements in the modelling. To introduce the data model, we decomposed it in different part. We first present the waste (figure 1) before presenting the transportation of waste to waste treatment areas (figure 3).


Natural dietary markers (stable isotopes and fatty acids) were used to determine the trophic structure and characterize carbon source(s) of juvenile and adult fishes associated with float- ing Sargassum in mid-shelf waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Stable carbon isotope ratios (δ 13 C) of 4 autotrophs (Cladophora sp., phytoplankton (based on particulate organic matter, POM), S. fluitans, S. natans) were distinct (range -16.3 to -21.0‰), with S. fluitans and S. natans enriched by 2 to 5‰ rel- ative to Cladophora sp. and POM. Stable nitrogen isotope ratios (δ 15 N) of both S. fluitans and S. natans were depleted by 5 to 7‰ compared to Cladophora sp. and POM. The majority of δ 13 C values of consumers were between -16 and -18‰, and δ 13 C values were most depleted for juvenile shrimps, juvenile crabs and certain juvenile fishes (e.g. Aluterus heudeloti, Monacanthus hispidus, Abudefduf saxatilis, Histrio histrio, Seriola dumerili). Stable carbon isotope ratios of adult fishes varied from -16.1 to -17.5‰. Enrichment of δ 15 N occurred with increasing trophic position, and the lowest values were observed for juvenile crustaceans, which ranged from 6.0 to 8.7‰. The majority of juvenile fishes were secondary heterotrophs (δ 15 N values ca. 8.0 to 11.0‰), while most adult fishes were ter- tiary consumers with δ 15 N values ranging from 11.9 to 14.3‰. Carbon source estimates from a 2-source mixing model indicated that the 78% of organic matter supplied to consumers (pooled across taxa) in the Sargassum complex was derived from POM. Fatty acid signatures of the primary producers were significantly different, and were used to further evaluate organic matter contribution to Sargassum-associated consumers. C22 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (22:6n-3, 22:5n-3) were most abundant in POM, while high levels of C18 and C20 PUFAs were observed for Cladophora sp. and Sargassum spp. (18:2n-6 and 20:4n-6, respectively). Consumer signatures were dominated by 22:6n-3, and principal component analysis indicated that fatty acid signatures of each of the 6 juve- nile and 6 adult fish species were highly similar to POM and distinct from the other producers within the Sargassum complex.


Carbon composite bipolar plates with various carbon black contents were prepared by a compression molding method. The electrical conductivity and electrochemical stability of the bipolar plates have been evaluated. It is found that the electrical conductivity increases with increasing carbon black contents up to 15 wt %. When the carbon black contents are greater than 15 wt %, the electrical conductivity decreases because of a poor compatibility between epoxy resin and carbon black, and a weakening of compaction in the carbon composite bipolar plate. Based on the results, it could be concluded that there are optimum carbon black contents when preparing the carbon composite bipolar plate. Corrosion tests show that the carbon composite bipolar plate with 15 wt % carbon black exhibits better electrochemical stability than a graphite bipolar plate under a highly acidic condition. When the optimized carbon composite bipolar plate is applied to vanadium redox flow cells, the performance of flow cells with the carbon composite bipolar plate is comparable to that of flow cells with the graphite bipolar plate.


The whole‐body (tachymetabolic) endothermy seen in modern birds and mammals is long held to have evolved independently in each group, a reasonable assumption when it was believed that its earliest appearances in birds and mammals arose many millions of years apart. That assumption is consistent with current acceptance that the non‐shivering thermogenesis (NST) component of regulatory body heat originates differently in each group: from skeletal muscle in birds and from brown adipose tissue (BAT) in mammals. However, BAT is absent in monotremes, marsupials, and many eutherians, all whole‐body endotherms. Indeed, recent research implies that BAT‐driven NST originated more recently and that the biochemical processes driving muscle NST in birds, many modern mammals and the ancestors of both may be similar, deriving from controlled 'slippage' of Ca2+ from the sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) in skeletal muscle, similar to a process seen in some fishes. This similarity prompted our realisation that the capacity for whole‐body endothermy could even have pre‐dated the divergence of Amniota into Synapsida and Sauropsida, leading us to hypothesise the homology of whole‐body endothermy in birds and mammals, in contrast to the current assumption of their independent (convergent) evolution. To explore the extent of similarity between muscle NST in mammals and birds we undertook a detailed review of these processes and their control in each group. We found considerable but not complete similarity between them: in extant mammals the 'slippage' is controlled by the protein sarcolipin (SLN), in birds the SLN is slightly different structurally and its role in NST is not yet proved. However, considering the multi‐millions of years since the separation of synapsids and diapsids, we consider that the similarity between NST production in birds and mammals is consistent with their whole‐body endothermy being homologous. If so, we should expect to find evidence for it much earlier and more widespread among extinct amniotes than is currently recognised. Accordingly, we conducted an extensive survey of the palaeontological literature using established proxies. Fossil bone histology reveals evidence of sustained rapid growth rates indicating tachymetabolism. Large body size and erect stature indicate high systemic arterial blood pressures and four‐chambered hearts, characteristic of tachymetabolism. Large nutrient foramina in long bones are indicative of high bone perfusion for rapid somatic growth and for repair of microfractures caused by intense locomotion. Obligate bipedality appeared early and only in whole‐body endotherms. Isotopic profiles of fossil material indicate endothermic levels of body temperature. These proxies led us to compelling evidence for the widespread occurrence of whole‐body endothermy among numerous extinct synapsids and sauropsids, and very early in each clade's family tree. These results are consistent with and support our hypothesis that tachymetabolic endothermy is plesiomorphic in Amniota. A hypothetical structure for the heart of the earliest endothermic amniotes is proposed. We conclude that there is strong evidence for whole‐body endothermy being ancient and widespread among amniotes and that the similarity of biochemical processes driving muscle NST in extant birds and mammals strengthens the case for its plesiomorphy.


The English language Wikipedia is notable for its large number of articles and for the intricate collaborative interactions that create and sustain it. However, 288 other active language editions of Wikipedia have also developed through the coordination of contributing editors. While collaboration in the English Wikipedia has been researched extensively, these other language editions remain understudied. Our study leverages an influential collaboration model based on behaviors in the English Wikipedia as a lens to consider collaborative activity in the Spanish and French language editions. Through an analysis of collaborative interactions across article talk pages, we demonstrate that talk pages, the locus of most collaboration on the English Wikipedia, are used differently in these different language editions. Our study raises broader questions about how results from studies of the English Wikipedia generalize to other language editions, demonstrates the need to account for variations in collaborative behaviors in all language editions of Wikipedia and presents evidence that collaborative practices on the English Wikipedia have changed overtime.


ABSTRACT Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) has a very high prevalence and poses a huge financial encumbrance on patients. This study aimed to evaluate the cost of diabetes care among patients with type 2 diabetes in private clinics of southern Punjab, Pakistan. Research design and methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, prevalence-based, cost-of-illness (COI) study conducted in six private clinics of southern Punjab from July to September 2016, using a pretested questionnaire. Study participants were recruited using a random selection method. Continuous variables, including direct and indirect costs, were summarized using descriptive statistics. Inferential statistics were also used to analyze the correlation between the variables and cost. Results: The mean annual direct cost per patient with diabetes was estimated to be 332 USD. Medications accounted for the largest share (60.4%) of this cost. Age, locality, high socioeconomic status, and prolonged disease duration were significantly associated with the direct costs of illness (p < 0.05). Moreover, 19% of total earnings among very low-income patients were spent on diabetes care. Conclusions: A substantial proportion of patients' income is spent on diabetes care in Punjab. Our findings support the substantial individual and societal burden caused by diabetes.


The Philippine populations of Centropus bengalensis had been generally included in the widely distributed subspecies C. b. javanensis (Dumont), type locality Java, until Deignan (1955) observed that the population of Palawan is actually referable to this subspecies, but: "that those of other islands are separable by having, in fresh plumage, increased nigrescence of the anterior upper parts, the black or blackish area usually extending to the center of the back". For this subspecies Deignan used the name C. molkenboeri Bonaparte (1850: 108, "ex Philippinis"), which had been listed as a synonym of C. b. javanensis by Shelley (1891), Stresemann (1912) and Hachisuka (1934-1935). Parkes (1957) confirmed and amplified Deignan's findings as regards the distinctness of the Philippine race, concluding his paper with the remark : "the purpose of this note is to introduce the combination Centropus bengalensis molkenboeri into current taxonomie literature so that it may be used without burdensome explanation in forthcoming papers". In a later paper, Parkes (1965) has again discussed the characters of the Philippine subspecies of C. bengalensis, using, as in his previous paper, the name C. b. molkenboeri for it. Although I am not aware that the name molkenboeri in the combination C. b. molkenboeri has been used by other authors (in the post-Parkes publications by Ripley & Rabor, 1958, and Rand & Rabor, 1960, the name C. b. javanensis was still applied to Philippine birds), its use has not been challenged either and for that reason, and before that combination becomes too firmly entrenched in literature, I want to state that the holotype of C. molkenboeri is still in our collection, and that it does not belong to the


A re-examination of the four genera that comprise the Scinaia assemblage – Scinaia Bivona-Bernardi, Gloiophloea J. Agardh, Pseudoscinaia Setchell and Pseudogloiophloea Levring – has shown that both Pseudogloiophloea and Pseudoscinaia lack features that warrant independent generic status. Scinaia, Gloiophloea and Pseudogloiophloea have been separated from one another solely on cortical differences. Scinaia produces a cortex composed of either a mixture of inflated utricles and smaller cells (Scinaia forcellata Bivona-Bernardi) or of inflated utricles only (all other present species). In contrast, the cortex of Gloiophloea completely lacks utricles. Pseudogloiophloea supposedly differs from Scinaia in that its cortex is composed of a mixture of inflated utricles and conspicuously smaller (often pigmented) cells. This kind of cortex, however, is essentially identical to that found in S. forcellata, the type of the genus Scinaia. Pseudoscinaia was separated from Scinaia because its cystocarp supposedly has gonimoblast filaments lining the walls of the cystocarp cavity, rather than projecting centrally into the cavity. A re-examination of the type specimen, however, has shown that the cystocarp is essentially identical to that of Scinaia. It is concluded, therefore, that the Scinaia assemblage is comprised of only the two genera Scinaia (with cortical utricles to some degree) and Gloiophloea (completely lacking utricles). Recent proposals to erect the order Galaxaurales (as Chaetangiales) are rejected on the grounds that the gonimoblast initials in all genera studied arise directly from the carpogonium and not the hypogynous cell as has been previously claimed.


This paper considers the use of feature selection within the state detection module for an ocean turbine condition monitoring system. The goal is to reduce the quantity of data to be processed while maintaining or improving state detection capabilities. Five feature selection techniques (Chi-squared, Information Gain, Signal-To-Noise, AUC and PRC) are evaluated based on their effects on four widely used machine learning algorithms, namely Naive Bayes, k-Nearest Neighbors, Decision Tree and Logistic Regression, when each machine learner is trained on the top n features selected by each feature selection technique. Six values of n (2, 4, 6, 8, 10 and 15) were considered. Features were extracted from the raw vibration signals using a Short Time Wavelet Transform with Baselining (STWTB) technique designed to allow for reliable state detection regardless of the turbine's operating conditions, which are often reflected within its vibration readings. The condition-independent features extracted by the STWTB are then fused to combine all the data observed by all sensor sources. Models were built on data gathered at one operating condition and tested against data from a different operating condition to simulate the problem of building models which work regardless of operating condition. Results show that k-Nearest Neighbors, Naive Bayes and Logistic Regression have improved classification performance when using less than 11% of the 78 available features, with Logistic Regression needing just 2 features selected by the Signal-To-Noise technique to generate a perfect classification model. The Decision Tree performed best without feature selection.


This thesis presents a study on the development and application of electrochemical techniques for analysis in biological fluids. Two main problems which occur when measurements are made directly in biological matrices were addressed. Firstly, interferences from other electro active components and secondly, adsorption of high molecular weight organic species (such as proteins) onto the electrode surface. Much of the work described utilised glassy carbon electrodes covalently modified by a diazonium salt coupling pr<;>cedure. This method of modification produced stable electrode surfaces suitable for use in flowing streams and with organic solvents (such as those used in reversed phase-HPLC). The properties of the chemically modified electrodes (CMEs) could be varied by changing the para substituent of the aryl species grafted onto the electrode surface. Modification with p-phenylacetate and p-benzoate moieties generated CMEs which were negatively charged at physiological pH (7.4) and were selective for cationic analytes relative to anionic species. The suitability of these CMEs as probes for the measurement of the catecholamine neurotransmitter dopamine (DA) was investigated in detail. The CMEs exhibited fast response times to DA and good selectivity to DA over ascorbic acid making them suitable for DA measurements with fast timescale electrochemical techniques. Uncharged CMEs were also prepared using the diazonium salt procedure. The selectivity of palkylbenzene modified electrodes was investigated in batch and flow injection analysis conditions. The selective measurement of biologically important species (acetaminophen and chlorpromazine) over interferents (ascorbic acid and uric acid), was investigated. Chlorpromazine was able to be measured in the presence of uric acid using a retention-time based technique coupled with a p-phenylacetatelpmethylbenzene modified detector. The simultaneous determination of acetaminophen, ascorbic acid and uric acid was achieved at an array of modified detectors. Covalently modified electrodes were used in protein adsorption studies. The extent of protein adsorption was evaluated by monitoring the electrochemical response of suitable probe analytes. Protein adsorption was influenced by monolayer modification. Anionic groups close to the electrode surface did not affect protein adsorption whilst hydrophobic groups increased protein adsorption. Charged groups which extended further into solution decreased protein adsorption. Protein adsorption was also examined at different carbon materials, electrochemically pretreated glassy carbon and CMEs prepared by methods other than diazonium salt modification. Glassy carbon was less prone to adsorption of high molecular weight foul ants compared to other unmodified carbon electrodes. Some assembly of anionic surfactant on basal plane graphite and incorporation of anionic surfactant in graphite epoxy decreased protein adsorption relative to unmodified electrodes. Electrodes coated with the polymer, cellulose acetate, decreased protein adsorption but gave poor reproducibility and suffered from time-dependent response.


ABSTRACT.
 Understanding long-term patterns of burrow occupancy for the Western Burrowing Owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea) is necessary for the conservation of this species, especially in arid, desert ecosystems where burrow occupancy data are lacking. Monthly burrow monitoring was conducted over a 4-year period (1997–2001) in southern Nevada to determine burrow occupancy patterns of Burrowing Owls and to evaluate the effects of burrow type and desert region on burrow occupancy. Burrow occupancy occurred year-round and was most consistent in the Transition region and tended to be lowest in the Mojave Desert region. Peak burrow occupancy occurred during March through May, followed by a gradual decline in occupancy through the summer and fall until January and February, when occupancy was lowest. Occupancy was significantly higher at sites with both culvert and pipe burrows than at sites with earthen burrows in disturbed habitat or earthen burrows in natural habitat. Breeding-season occupancy was not significantly higher in wetter, cooler portions (e.g., Great Basin desert region) of the study area. Results suggest that occupancy is influenced by habitat features—such as suitable burrows in open areas with low vegetation—and climatic regime.


We consider a problem of model selection in high-dimensional binary Markov random fields. The usefulness of the Ising model in studying systems of complex interactions has been confirmed in many papers. The main drawback of this model is the intractable norming constant that makes estimation of parameters very challenging. In the paper we propose a Lasso penalized version of the Monte Carlo maximum likelihood method. We prove that our algorithm, under mild regularity conditions, recognizes the true dependence structure of the graph with high probability. The efficiency of the proposed method is also investigated via simulation studies.


This article examines specialized criminal courts as a means of addressing the problem of prostitution. It begins by chronicling the history of New York City's Women's Court, a specialized criminal court established in 1910 to respond to complaints of vocal anti-prostitution crusaders. It focuses on the well-founded critique of Anna Moscowitz Kross, a contemporary of the institution who, after practicing in the Court and serving on its bench, repeatedly called for its abolition. Kross believed that prostitution, a social issue, could not be meaningfully addressed by the criminal justice system. Over several decades, she questioned the motivations behind the Women's Court, condemned the police practices it encouraged, criticized its day-to-day processes, and argued the institution simply failed to do what it was intended to do - that is, prevent prostitution. In 1967, the Women's Court, which had been plagued by decades of controversy, finally closed its doors. This paper continues by examining recent renewed interest in specialized criminal courts as a mechanism for addressing the issue of prostitution. It does so by focusing on the work of New York City's Midtown Community Court, which opened in 1993 to address quality-of-life offenses in Manhattan's Times Square area. As with the Women's Court, this article looks at the motives underlying the Midtown Court movement, the law enforcement methods used to bring alleged offenders before that institution, the Court's day-to-day processes, and the results of this most recent attempt to suppress prostitution. Building upon Kross's critique, this article goes on to compare and analyze the shared features of the Women's Court and Midtown Community Court. In doing so, it suggests that using specialized criminal courts to deal with prostitution may be more problematic than problem-solving. Indeed, this article argues that in operation, prostitution-focused institutions have allowed for special interest control of the criminal justice system, harnessed the power of criminal courts in undesirable ways, failed to meaningfully solve societal problems, and worked to divert attention from the real issue relating to prostitution - that is, whether it should be a crime at all. Thus, this article concludes by urging modern reformers to step back from the modern specialty court movement and consider the extent to which they are simply repeating history's mistakes.


An Aging Workforce and the Technology Gap: An Exploratory Multiple Case Study by Julie Francis-Pettway MA, Troy University, 2012 BS, Albany State University, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Management Walden University February 2019 Abstract A gap exists in the literature on the actual experiences of older workers with information and communication technology adoption in technology-infused workplaces. To inform organizations on how to more effectively support this employee group's adoption of technology, the purpose of this qualitative exploratory multiple case study was designed to gain a deeper understanding of the daily experiences of older workersA gap exists in the literature on the actual experiences of older workers with information and communication technology adoption in technology-infused workplaces. To inform organizations on how to more effectively support this employee group's adoption of technology, the purpose of this qualitative exploratory multiple case study was designed to gain a deeper understanding of the daily experiences of older workers when adopting and adapting to information and communication technologies in a technology-infused workplace. This study is framed by, first, the selection-optimizationcompensation framework for successful aging and, second, the age-inclusive training design framework. Semistructured interviews with 8 participants, observational field notes, and archival data provided data regarding specific technology experiences among older workers in the workplace. Identifiable themes emerged through thematic analysis of the textual data and cross-case synthesis analysis. A total of 8 categories that enclose a total of 18 themes were identified. The categories are (a) selection of resources, (b) optimization of resources, (c) compensation of resources, (d) performance limitations, (e) assessing training needs, (f) establishing/ sustaining performance, (g) age-inclusive training needs, and (h) older workers as organizational assets. Findings enhanced social change efforts by providing insight on the daily experiences that the older worker faced which may contribute to limited productivity in the workplace. Organizational leaders and human resource managers may use results of this study to implement provisions that improve help organizational profitability, team cohesiveness, and workplace satisfaction. An Aging Workforce and the Technology Gap: An Exploratory Multiple Case Study by Julie Francis-Pettway MA, Troy University, 2012 BS, Albany State University, 1997 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Management Walden University February 2019


This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 PL License (creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/pl/), which permits redistribution, commercial and non commercial, provided that the article is properly cited. © The Author(s) 2014. Publisher: Institute of Slavic Studies, PAS & The Slavic Foundation [Wydawca: Instytut Slawistyki PAN & Fundacja Slawistyczna] DOI: 10.11649/sfps.2014.001


Labour movement struggles have a significant cultural dimension. The role of music has been particularly important. IWW songster and activist Joe Hill personified the intimate connection between songs and struggle. When contemporary folk musician John McCutcheon performs, as he invariably does in Australia, 'The Ballad of Joe Hill', he prefaces the song with a wonderful tale about Paul Robeson singing for the workers on the steps of the Sydney Opera House (see John McCutcheon Live at Wolf Trap). Folk music is story-telling and it gives a voice to the oppressed, the marginalised and the working classes. In this issue of Illawarra Unity, we feature three interviews with internationally prominent folk singers, all of whom have supported actively the labour movement. This journal article is available in Illawarra Unity Journal of the Illawarra Branch of the Australian Society for the Study of Labour History: http://ro.uow.edu.au/unity/vol5/iss1/6


The Northern Marginal Zone of the Limpopo Belt in southern Africa comprises a Plutonic Assemblage of granitoids including a distinctive suite of porphyroclastic granites. and a much less abundant Supracrustal Assemblage of metabasites and iron formations. These rocks are at granulite facies above a normal thickness of continental crust. Most of the Plutonic Assemblage are intrusive rocks that crystallized from dry melts from 2800 to 2600 Ma, with a relatively simple thermal history. They may have been derived from partial melting of a mafic source. Some supracrustal rocks have experienced two thermal events at granulite facies. A reverse-sense shear zone forms the boundary of the Northern Marginal Zone with the Zimbabwe craton. The southern boundary is the Triangle shear zone, which is proven as a continuous structure along a much greater strike length than previously documented. A widespread sub-vertical foliation in the Northern Marginal Zone and the reverse shear zone formed during progressive NNW-SSE shortening. Crustal thickening occurred both magmatically and tectonically in the late Archaean, and was accompanied by synchronous uplift. Protracted magmatism provides a mechanism to incorporate supracrustal rocks into the lower crust, and can explain the occurrence of more than a single thermal event.


ABSTRACT The African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) is a set of norms and structures developed and designed to enable Africa with its peace and security affairs. It is an important instrument that enabled Africa gain significant success in its efforts to promote stability in Africa. The APSA was designed in the early 2000s and Africa needs to fully implement its norms and fully utilize its instruments. There is also a need to address gaps and redundancies so that it fits to the current context of new internal and global challenges.


The induction of detoxifying enzymes and antioxidant proteins by chemopreventive agents protects cells from oxidizing substances capable of damaging DNA integrity and initiating carcinogenesis. Coniferyl aldehyde, a naturally occurring substance, has been found in many foods and edible plants. We and others previously demonstrated that trans-coniferylaldehyde (t-CA) has potential antimutagenic and antioxidant properties. However, the mechanism underlying its Nrf2-mediated antioxidant effect remains largely unknown. In the present study, we demonstrated that t-CA significantly stimulated antioxidant-responsive element (ARE)-driven luciferase activity in a cell model and increased the expression of ARE-dependent detoxifying/antioxidant genes and their protein products in vitro and in vivo. The detoxifying/antioxidant genes activated by t-CA, especially heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), were found to be involved in its cytoprotective effects against oxidative stress and cell injuries elicited by carcinogens tert-butylhydroperoxide and arecoline. Furthermore, the t-CA-induced phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor erythroid-2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) played a crucial role in this ARE-mediated cellular defense. Moreover, we found that p38 MAPK and protein kinase C (PKC) signaling pathways participated in the t-CA-induced, Nrf2-mediated cytoprotective effect. Among them, p38α/MAPKAPK-2 and an atypical PKC, PK-N3, were critical for the activation of the Nrf2/HO-1 axis by t-CA. In conclusion, we demonstrated for the first time that t-CA attenuates carcinogen-induced oxidative stress by activating Nrf2 via p38α/MAPKAPK-2- and PK-N3-dependent signaling pathways. In addition, t-CA increased the level of Nrf2-mediated detoxifying/antioxidant proteins in vivo, suggesting that t-CA may have potential for use in the management of carcinogenesis and meriting further investigation.


Although the Internet is widely used today, we have little information about the edge of the network. Decentralized management, firewalls, and sensitivity to probing prevent easy answers and make measurement difficult. Building on frequent ICMP probing of 1% of the Internet address space, we develop clustering and analysis methods to estimate how Internet addresses are used. We show that adjacent addresses often have similar characteristics and are used for similar purposes (61% of addresses we probe are consistent blocks of 64 neighbours or more). We then apply this block-level clustering to provide data to explore several open questions in how networks are managed. First, we provide information about how effectively network address blocks appear to be used, finding that a significant number of blocks are only lightly used (most addresses in about one-fifth of 24 blocks are in use less than 10% of the time), an important issue as the IPv4 address space nears full allocation. Second, we provide new measurements about dynamically managed address space, showing nearly 40% of 24 blocks appear to be dynamically allocated, and dynamic addressing is most widely used in countries more recent to the Internet (more than 80% in China, while less than 30% in the U.S.). Third, we distinguish blocks with low-bitrate last-hops and show that such blocks are often underutilized.


Rescuers have lost their lives in events requiring them to go into dangerous areas that have unstable structures and gases. Robots are necessary for search and rescue purposes, to access concealed places and environments to which fire fighters and rescue personnel cannot gain entry. Robots that were previously used encountered problems with communication, chassis design, traction and sensory systems. Improvements are required for the successful localization of victims. Research on improvements in these areas were carried out for the use in the CAESAR (Contractible Arms Elevating Search And Rescue) robot. Contributions were made in the area of Urban Search And Rescue (USAR) robots focusing on antenna design, communication protocols, chassis design, traction system and artificial intelligence on decisions relating to gas danger levels for humans and the robot. The capabilities of CAESAR is audio, video and data communication irrespective of the orientation of the robot and the antennas. Penetration of radio frequencies through building material is possible. Reliable data communication is achieved with the designed Robotics Communication Protocol (RCP). The chassis is designed to have traction on unstable terrain and autonomously transform flipper arms for the best orientation. Materials for the body were selected and constructed to be able to withstand the unstable environments and high temperatures which they will encounter. The control station display gives the rescuers immediate indication of the gas concentrations detected by the on-board gas sensors. Developed analytical models determine the danger of the gas concentrations for victims, rescuers and the robots.


Mitochondrial deoxyribonucleic acid (mtDNA) is a small circular piece of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) that resides inside of mitochondria in the cytoplasm of most eukaryotic cells. It has been used by evolutionary biologists for nearly four decades as an analytical tool for everything from tracing human lineages and how people moved across the planet to studies about natural selection. More recently, mtDNA has become even more useful in evolutionary biology as a result of the ease with which the entire molecule can be sequenced. Large numbers of fully sequenced mitochondrial genomes have been generated as a result of next-generation sequencing (NGS) and powerful bioinformatic approaches.

Key Concepts

Mitochondrial DNA has been used to study evolutionary biology for nearly four decades.
The capacity to sequence whole mitochondrial genomes has become an important part of the expansion of the role of this molecule in evolutionary biology.
MtDNA genome information has contributed to the study of human mtDNA haplogroup studies, animal phylogeography and phylogenetic studies, ancient DNA studies, studies of natural selection and studies of nuclear mitochondrial interactions.
As of 2017, over 500 ancient human mtDNA genomes have been sequenced.
As of 2017, over 100 ancient animal mtDNA genomes have been sequenced.
An important new area where mtDNA genomics will contribute in the future is in using DNA sequence analysis of natural history collection specimens.

Keywords:

mitochondrial DNA;
genomics;
natural selection;
ancient DNA;
evolution;
mitonuclear interactions


This thesis studies the British colonial response to Jewish refugees between 1938 and 1943. By assessing Britain's 'bystander' response through the lens of the empire, this study expands on existing historiography and seeks not just to detail Britain's limited action but also explain it. In this thesis, the concepts of liberalism, race and humanitarianism are used as analytical frameworks through which to examine British colonial policy. Specifically, in the interwar years, the scope of British (in)action was defined by liberal views on assimilation and the rights of individuals versus groups. Rather than antisemitism, a strict racial hierarchical and paternal system was used to justify British power and to protect British interests in the making of refugee policy. Finally, international humanitarianism was at a particular moment of development in the interwar years, both in terms of the intergovernmental system through which humanitarian action was channelled and in the socio-political expectation on governments to act. This was expressed in a conflict of short-term emergency aid and long-term developmental aid. The result was a colonial policy of compromise that saw officials try to connect the skills and financial assets of refugees with their overriding priority of colonial development and welfare. Through the use of official documents and refugee testimony, this study provides an account of the making and impact of colonial refugee policy and raises questions that remain relevant for us today.


Abstract Missing data are exceedingly common across a variety of disciplines, such as educational, social, and behavioral science areas. Missing not at random (MNAR) mechanism where missingness is related to unobserved data is widespread in real data and has detrimental consequence. However, the existing MNAR-based methods have potential problems such as leaving the data incomplete and failing to accommodate incomplete covariates with interactions, non-linear terms, and random slopes. We propose a Bayesian latent variable imputation approach to impute missing data due to MNAR (and other missingness mechanisms) and estimate the model of substantive interest simultaneously. In addition, even when the incomplete covariates involves interactions, non-linear terms, and random slopes, the proposed method can handle missingness appropriately. Computer simulation results suggested that the proposed Bayesian latent variable selection model (BLVSM) was quite effective when the outcome and/or covariates were MNAR. Except when the sample size was small, estimates from the proposed BLVSM tracked closely with those from the complete data analysis. With a small sample size, when the outcome was less predictable from the covariates, the missingness proportions of the covariates and the outcome were larger, and the missingness selection processes of the covariates and the outcome were more MNAR and MAR, the performance of BLVSM was less satisfactory. When the sample size was large, BLVSM always performed well. In contrast, the method with an MAR assumption provided biased estimates and undercoverage confidence intervals when the missingness was MNAR. The robustness and the implementation of BLVSM in real data were also illustrated. The proposed method is available in the Blimp software application, and the paper includes a data analysis example illustrating its use.


This volume is based on lectures presented at the AMS Special Session on Algebraic Methods in Statistics and Probability--held March 27-29, 2009, at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign--and on contributed articles solicited for this volume. A decade after the publication of Contemporary Mathematics Vol. 287, the present volume demonstrates the consolidation of important areas, such as algebraic statistics, computational commutative algebra, and deeper aspects of graphical models. In statistics, this volume includes, among others, new results and applications in cubic regression models for mixture experiments, multidimensional Fourier regression experiments, polynomial characterizations of weakly invariant designs, toric and mixture models for the diagonal-effect in two-way contingency tables, topological methods for multivariate statistics, structural results for the Dirichlet distributions, inequalities for partial regression coefficients, graphical models for binary random variables, conditional independence and its relation to sub-determinants covariance matrices, connectivity of binary tables, kernel smoothing methods for partially ranked data, Fourier analysis over the dihedral groups, properties of square non-symmetric matrices, and Wishart distributions over symmetric cones. In probability, this volume includes new results related to discrete-time semi Markov processes, weak convergence of convolution products in semigroups, Markov bases for directed random graph models, functional analysis in Hardy spaces, and the Hewitt-Savage zero-one law.


Magnetic hyperthermia is an oncological therapy where magnetic nanostructures, under a radiofrequency field, act as heat transducers increasing tumour temperature and killing cancerous cells. Nanostructure heating efficiency depends both on the field conditions and on the nanostructure properties and mobility inside the tumour. Such nanostructures are often incorrectly bench-marketed in the colloidal state and using field settings far off from the recommended therapeutic values. Here, we prepared nanoclusters composed of iron oxide magnetite nanoparticles crystallographically aligned and their specific absorption rate (SAR) values were calorimetrically determined in physiological fluids, agarose-gel-phantoms and ex vivo tumours extracted from mice challenged with B16-F0 melanoma cells. A portable, multipurpose applicator using medical field settings; 100 kHz and 9.3 kA m-1, was developed and the results were fully analysed in terms of nanoclusters' structural and magnetic properties. A careful evaluation of the nanoclusters' heating capacity in the three milieus clearly indicates that the SAR values of fluid suspensions or agarose-gel-phantoms are not adequate to predict the real tissue temperature increase or the dosage needed to heat a tumour. Our results show that besides nanostructure mobility, perfusion and local thermoregulation, the nanostructure distribution inside the tumour plays a key role in effective heating. A suppression of the magnetic material effective heating efficiency appears in tumour tissue. In fact, dosage had to be increased considerably, from the SAR values predicted from fluid or agarose, to achieve the desired temperature increase. These results represent an important contribution towards the design of more efficient nanostructures and towards the clinical translation of hyperthermia.


The Tokamak configuration is a promising concept for magnetic confinement fusion. Cross-field
transport in the plasma core leads to a plasma flux across the separatrix into the scrape-off layer,
where it is guided along field lines towards the divertor targets. A return flux of neutral particles
after plasma-wall interaction is directed towards the plasma chamber. Each discharge scenario
is accompanied by a characteristic recycling pattern. The dominant mechanisms of neutralplasma
interaction are ionisation and atom-ion charge exchange. The impact of neutrals on the
particle-, momentum- and energy-balance of the plasma is relevant for the understanding of the
properties of the edge plasma and the state of the divertor plasma. Neutrals may cause energyand
momentum-detachment, a state of reduced power and particle fluxes, at the targets, which
is a prerequisite for acceptable wall loads under reactor conditions. The distribution of neutral
particles in the plasma chamber can be determined by the analysis of line emission. Parameters of
neutrals have been available so far only from localised measurements and it is therefore desired
to extend the observation area.
At the ASDEX Upgrade Tokamak, two cameras are installed to record the Deuterium
Balmer-alpha (D_alpha) emission with high spatial resolution and dynamic range in the divertor and midplane
regions. Two methods for data deconvolution are presented. A simple profile-fit is used to
resolve the radial profile of emission at the low and high field sides for low and medium density
discharges. This emission profile is translated to neutral parameters by comparison to the results
obtained from kinetic modelling of neutral penetration (KN1D). An algorithm for tomographic
reconstruction is applied to image data of the divertor region. In general, radiance data recorded
is blurred due to the impact of diffuse reflection from surfaces of the plasma facing components in
the all-Tungsten machine. Therefore, the tomographic algorithm has been extended by a model
for reflection based on a solid angle resolved measurement.
The sensitivity of the procedures is proven by the accurate analysis of different edge plasma
configurations. Poloidally resolved neutral flux densities at the plasma edge and corresponding
core fuelling rates are presented for the high field side. Underlying estimates of plasma parameters
indicate a drop of static plasma pressure along the magnetic field towards the inner target.
Changes of the poloidal flux density profile during a radial shift of the plasma column, indicate
a correlation of plasma-wall gap and scrape-off layer parameters at the high field side. From the
deconvolution of divertor view data separate emission patterns have been resolved. Besides the
character of emission at the strike zones which can give a hint on the level of detachment, the
occurrence of radiation above the inner target indicates that the distribution of plasma parameters
is probably more complex than expected from simple radial decay lengths.
The experimental emission profiles and inferred neutral parameters display an important
boundary condition for complex 2D edge modelling codes like SOLPS. The comparison of experimental
and code results question the applicability of the standard recipe (concerning code
settings) for arbitrary plasma scenarios. An interface to theory is required to reasonably exploit
the experimental data on neutral penetration.
The essential result of this thesis is a reference frame for the quantitative analysis of video
diagnostics data recorded on a Tokamak plasma, including the impact of reflecting plasma facing
components.


Despite recent advances, memory-augmented deep neural networks are still limited when it comes to life-long and one-shot learning, especially in remembering rare events. We present a large-scale life-long memory module for use in deep learning. The module exploits fast nearest-neighbor algorithms for efficiency and thus scales to large memory sizes. Except for the nearest-neighbor query, the module is fully differentiable and trained end-to-end with no extra supervision. It operates in a life-long manner, i.e., without the need to reset it during training.
Our memory module can be easily added to any part of a supervised neural network. To show its versatility we add it to a number of networks, from simple convolutional ones tested on image classification to deep sequence-to-sequence and recurrent-convolutional models. In all cases, the enhanced network gains the ability to remember and do life-long one-shot learning. Our module remembers training examples shown many thousands of steps in the past and it can successfully generalize from them. We set new state-of-the-art for one-shot learning on the Omniglot dataset and demonstrate, for the first time, life-long one-shot learning in recurrent neural networks on a large-scale machine translation task.


This paper presents regional trends and national estimates of exports, employment, wages, productivity and working time in the garment, textile and footwear industries in developing Asia and the Pacific based on official trade statistics and national labour force survey data. It finds that the region accounts for 60 per cent (US$601 billion) of global exports of garments, textiles and footwear. The industry employs more than 40 million Asian workers. However, labour productivity and wages remain low overall, and working time is often excessive. Applying standard Mincerian wage regressions, the paper presents empirical evidence on wage premiums and gender pay gaps in the industry, and discusses policy measures that can help sustain growth through new drivers of competitiveness.


In monocotyledons, the leaf vascular network consists of a hierarchical sequence of vertical vascular bundles and numerous transverse veins that interconnect adjacent vertical veins. In the leaf sheath of these species, especially grasses, lysigenous gas cavities (gas spaces) are developed into intervascular spaces and provide a gas conducting system to non-aerial parts under flooded conditions. The spatial relationship between gas space formation and transverse vein differentiation was investigated using the leaf sheath of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Histochemical observation showed that patterns of differentiation of the transverse vein are distinct from those of vertical vascular bundles. On the other hand, gas spaces are formed through the processes of cell death (collapse). Both events are initiated at a specific cell position in the middle layers of the leaf sheath, from which the vascular system of the leaf is derived; this indicates that differentiation of transverse veins is associated with gas space formation. The cell-to-cell movement of fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated dextran injected into middle layer cells coincided with the area where cell collapse occurred, indicating a close relationship between the middle and adaxial cell layers, but not abaxial cell layers. A uniform cell number between each transverse vein in the leaf sheath suggested the involvement of spatial regulation in transverse vein formation regardless of clonal history at the later stage of leaf vein canalization.


Abstract The River Bend site, 41TR68, is located on the West Fork of the Trinity River near Fort Worth, Texas, in the Upper Trinity River floodplain. A magnetometer survey was performed at this site to identify hearths, and utilizing these data backhoe trenches were placed adjacent to significant magnetic anomalies. Test excavations were then conducted. Several physical properties measurements, including magnetic susceptibility, an indicator of magnetic mineral concentration, calcium carbonate percentages, and percent spectral reflectance in the red colour range were performed on samples from stratigraphic sections adjacent to two excavation units at the site. The data are interpreted in terms of cultural and palaeoclimatic controls during sediment accumulation. Distinctive peaks in all parameters were exhibited by samples associated with hearths and shell concentrations. Broad magnetic susceptibility highs, indicative of high magnetic mineral concentrations, are closely associated with hearths and result from the production of new magnetic minerals by chemical redox reactions during heating. Variations in red spectral reflectance percentages, indicative of hematite mineral concentration, appear to be the result of pedogenesis at the site and therefore are controlled primarily by climate. Susceptibility highs are correlated with reduced hematite concentrations, apparently resulting from the chemical reduction of hematite during heating. Calcium carbonate percentage peaks are indicative of shell debris concentrations from mollusks which were an abundant food source at those times. Superimposed on these peaks are broad variations in calcium carbonate percentages which reflect palaeosol development at the Riverbend Site and suggest the presence of several indistinct palaeosols. While overall variations appear to be the result of palaeoclimate, we interpret the local variations associated with hearths to result from several factors. First, the presence of abundant carbonate and sulphur at the site has resulted in the formation of authigenic iron carbonate and iron sulphide minerals from dissimulatory iron reduction by bacteria during pedogenesis. Second, at low temperatures these iron carbonates and sulphides oxidize to highly magnetic mineral phases, including magnetite and maghemite, thus increasing the observed magnetic susceptibility in samples acquired from the site. And third, at moderate temperatures, produced in sediments surrounding and beneath hearths, the abundant hematite at the site is reduced to maghemite, thus further increasing the magnetic susceptibility in the samples collected.