This thesis contributes to the public finance literature concerned with fiscal sustainability, and consists of an introduction and four stand-alone essays. The first three essays analyse the reasons why governments accumulate large levels of debt. In the first essay, I find that parties that implement fiscal consolidations are punished by the voters in the following election. However, there does not appear to be a rewarding effect for governments that implement fiscal expansions. The second essay, which is co-authored with Rafael Ahlskog, shows how voter opposition to fiscal consolidation is shaped by moral considerations and feelings of personal responsibility. More precisely, we argue that voters are more likely to refuse fiscal consolidation when they do not feel responsible for the public debt. The third essay argues that misperceptions about the business cycle would have caused fiscal problems even if policy-making was conducted by independent experts. According to my estimates, biased projections have weakened annual budget balances by approximately one per cent of GDP. In the fourth essay, I argue that budgetary mechanisms created to improve fiscal discipline have a bias toward a reduced public sector. Because discretionary decisions are usually required to adjust public expenditures to price and wage increases, periods of rapid growth have repeatedly caused the welfare state to shrink. I use the introduction to discuss the commonalities between the essays and to situate the field of public finance in a broader, historical context.

Effective use of Machine Learning to support extracting maximal information from limited sensor data is one of the important research challenges in robotic sensing. This thesis develops techniques for detecting and characterizing patterns in noisy sensor data. Our Bayesian Aggregation (BA) algorithmic framework can leverage data fusion from multiple low Signal-To-Noise Ratio (SNR) sensor observations to boost the capability to detect and characterize the properties of a signal generating source or process of interest. We illustrate our research with application to the nuclear threat detection domain. Developed algorithms are applied to the problem of processing the large amounts of gamma ray spectroscopy data that can be produced in real-time by mobile radiation sensors. The thesis experimentally shows BA’s capability to boost sensor performance in detecting radiation sources of interest, even if the source is faint, partiallyoccluded, or enveloped in the noisy and variable radiation background characteristic of urban scenes. In addition, BA provides simultaneous inference of source parameters such as the source intensity or source type while detecting it. The thesis demonstrates this capability and also develops techniques to efficiently optimize these parameters over large possible setting spaces. Methods developed in this thesis are demonstrated both in simulation and in a radiation-sensing backpack that applies robotic localization techniques to enable indoor surveillance of radiation sources. The thesis further improves the BA algorithm’s capability to be robust under various detection scenarios. First, we augment BA with appropriate statistical models to improve estimation of signal components in low photon count detection, where the sensor may receive limited photon counts from either source and/or background. Second, we develop methods for online sensor reliability monitoring to create algorithms that are resilient to possible sensor faults in a data pipeline containing one or multiple sensors. Finally, we develop Retrospective BA, a variant of BA that allows reinterpretation of past sensor data in light of new information about percepts. These Retrospective capabilities include the use of Hidden Markov Models in BA to allow automatic correction of a sensor pipeline when sensor malfunction may be occur, an Anomaly- Match search strategy to efficiently optimize source hypotheses, and prototyping of a Multi-Modal Augmented PCA to more flexibly model background and nuisance source fluctuations in a dynamic environment.

Schools develop organizational cultures of their own; these cultures establish traditions and norms that guide everyday life in schools. The purpose of this case study was to examine teachers’ and administrators’ perceptions of how a positive school culture has been shaped, maintained, and sustained over the past four decades at one midsized Catholic high school in Southeastern Ontario. The qualitative research design combined document analysis and qualitative interviewing with the aim to establish a greater understanding of the school’s history. The interviews were conducted with current and former teachers and administrators who have worked at the school between 1970 and 2013. By looking at this school as a case study, I have attempted to gain a deeper insight to the subjective experiences that different teachers and administrators have had with the school over the course of its recent history, and have thereby developed an understanding of the motivations and actions undertaken to both preserve and change the school’s normative structure over the course of time. The results of the study indicate that the school has been able to maintain and sustain a positive culture over the past forty years. The findings have determined the school’s cultural manifestations at each of the three levels of organizational culture, and recognize the fundamental importance of the role of selected stakeholders in projecting, and reflecting the existing culture in order to preserve core underlying assumptions in the process of adaptation to internal and external changes. The school’s long-standing history, tradition of excellence, and strong focus on Catholic education and “educating the whole person” have allowed for the establishment of a close community network within the school. From an ecological perspective (recognizing schools as living systems) these networks, supported by strong leadership, have served to sustain the healthy elements of the school’s culture allowing it to evolve over time. / Thesis (Master, Education) -- Queen's University, 2013-08-03 14:26:59.744

The purpose of this study was to examine the retrospective perceptions of parent-child relations as measured by the Roe-Siegelman Parent-Child Relations Questionnaire (PCR), personality characteristics as they appear on the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory (MMPI) and types of crimes of prison inmates, specifically divided into aggressive and non-aggressive crimes.

A research report submitted to the Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Medicine in Emergency Medicine Johannesburg, 2015 / Background: There has always been anecdotal reports that the ED is busier during the holidays and this increase in utilization is due to an increased incidence of trauma. Methods The retrospective data was collected from the Study Hospital’s Database and from the billing records of the doctor practice managing the ED. The data included all patients attending the Study Hospital ED during November 2011 (Non-holiday Period) and between the 10th December 2011 and 8th January 2012 (Holiday Period). Results: It was noted that the age, gender and racial profile of the patients attending the ED during the Holiday and Non-holiday Periods were similar. However there was a 39.9% increase in ED utilization during the Holiday Period. The Holiday Period was also associated with increased utilization by tourists (29.9% vs. 8.2%); with a slightly lower incidence of trauma (23.4% vs. 24.6%); with patients presenting with less urgent Triage Scores; fewer patients arriving at the ED via ambulance (3.2% vs. 7.2%) and a lower admission rate (10% vs. 17.5%). Conclusions: There was a significant increase in the utilization of the Study Hospital ED during the Holiday Period. This increased utilization was due to an increase in visitors to the Umhlanga area during the Holiday Period and was associated with an increased presentation to the ED of low acuity patients probably as a result of a lack of availability of their GP.

Background: Many infants in developing countries are faced with poverty, poor nutrition, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to communicable diseases that place them at risk for negative developmental consequences. Dysphagia is estimated to occur in 25-40% of normally developing, and 80-90% of infants with disabilities. International studies report the common causes of dysphagia to be of gastro-intestinal and neurological origin, yet limited research exists into the profile of paediatric dysphagia within developing contexts. Objective: To describe the profile of paediatric dysphagia in state hospitals, Gauteng. Methods: By means of a retrospective record review, this study investigated paediatric dysphagia (0-18 months) in state hospitals, Johannesburg. Hospital records of 263 infants with feeding impairments were analysed using descriptive statistics, phi correlations and logistical regression. Results: Findings revealed 214 underlying aetiological combinations whereby 65% (n=171) of infants experienced dysphagia secondary to a systemic illness, predominantly communicable diseases. The health professionals, management strategies and procedures employed in the assessment and intervention of paediatric dysphagia were context specific and related to the aetiological and social factors influencing the infants. Conclusion: Results differ significantly to those reflected in studies from developed countries. Of concern is the fact that 65% of infants experienced dysphagia secondary to a systemic illness, since with adequate nutrition, sanitation and health care, these conditions are potentially preventable. By improving social circumstances, the effects of systemic illnesses may be minimised, and may consequently decrease the number of infants affected by dysphagia. This implies that paediatric dysphagia in South Africa is no longer merely a health dilemma, but one which involves basic human rights.

Este estudo tem como objetivo a análise retrospectiva de quatrocentos e oitenta e nove prontuários de pacientes que apresentaram fraturas do osso mandibular, pertencentes ao Serviço de Cirurgia e Traumatologia Buco-Maxilo-Faciais da Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto (FORP/USP) provenientes de atendimentos realizados no período compreendido entre agosto de 2002 e julho de 2012. A análise foi direcionada a dados relativos a variáveis populacionais como idade, gênero, cor e profissão. Também foram analisados os exames de imagem solicitados, vícios, etiologia, sinais e sintomas, classificação da fratura, fraturas associadas de face ou não, abordagem, tratamento, tempo para intervenção cirúrgica e internação, além do período de acompanhamento e complicações. O critério para a inclusão dos prontuários na amostra foram de apresentarem fratura de mandíbula, com preenchimento completo de informações e de possuírem o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido. Como critérios de exclusão, foram desconsiderados os prontuários com preenchimento incompleto das informações e que não possuiam o Termo de Consentimento Livre e Esclarecido assinado. Os dados coletados por um único examinador foram transportados para uma planilha eletrônica utilizando o programa Microsoft Excel sendo realizada neste momento uma análise descritiva dos resultados obtidos. Tabelas e gráficos foram utilizados para a apresentação e interpretação destes dados. Concluimos que houve prevalência do gênero. / The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyse four hundred and eighty-nine patients files presenting fractures of the mandibular bone, incident from attendances at the Department of Traumatology and Maxillofacial Surgery, from the School of Dentistry of Ribeirão Preto (FORP/USP) during the period between August 2002 and July 2012. The analysis was directed through population data variables such as age, gender, race and profession. Imaging tests requested, addictions, etiology of trauma, signs and symptoms, fractures classification, associated fractures, approach, treatment, time to surgical intervention and hospitalization, apart from follow-up period and complications were also analyzed. The criterion for inclusion of records in the sample were experiencing jaw fracture with complete filling of information and having the Term of Consent. Exclusion criteria were disregarded the charts with incomplete filling of information and lacked the Term of Consent signed. The data collected by a single observer were transported to a spreadsheet using Microsoft Excel program currently being conducted to a descriptive analysis of the results. Tables and graphs were used for the presentation and interpretation of these data. We conclude that there was a prevalence of male gender, white race, aged between 21-30 years with fractures of the left side, unilateral, etiology traffic accident. Most fractures were treated surgically, intraoral access were prevalent and complication rates were low.

Innovative technologies and products, high-performance materials and multi functional fibres are nowadays emerging and are known as technical textiles. This phenomenon, which is quite new in our vocabulary, but the technique and heritage of using textile as functional applications is rather old. The purpose of this thesis is to track the technical textile industries and product segment in Swedish history since the beginning of the industrial revolution and hereby contribute to a broader insight in the Swedish technical textile history. Five different technical textiles segments have been described with a company example after each. A case study methodology is chosen to deepen the analysis of two companies that acted in this particular segment of technical textiles. The companies Jonsereds Fabriker AB and Göteborgs Remfabriks AB were selected. By applying the business model canvas is this thesis trying to illustrate why the companies experienced difficulties to keep up the technical textile production during the 1970s and finally had to close down. By applying a modern business model to historical companies is this thesis furthermore proposing to additional research in the emerging technical textile field. / Program: Applied Textile Management

A coledocolitíase residual representa grande desafio na avaliação diagnóstica e proposta terapêutica. Neste contexto, realizamos estudo retrospectivo com o objetivo de avaliar critérios clínicos, laboratoriais e métodos de imagem para o seu diagnóstico; avaliar o resultado do tratamento através de procedimentos endoscópicos e cirúrgicos, bem como a ocorrência de complicações e sua repercussão no período de internação. Foram estudados 32 (trinta e dois) pacientes portadores de coledocolitíase residual internados na Clínica Cirúrgica do Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade Federal de Goiás, no período de janeiro de 1995 a julho de 2001. Foram incluídos pacientes submetidos previamente a colecistectomia, nos quais o diagnóstico de coledocolitíase foi feito posteriormente (pela não realização de colangiografia trans-operatória) ou no próprio curso da colecistectomia, porém postergando-se o tratamento. Pudemos concluir: a maioria dos pacientes portadores de coledocolitíase residual tem como sintoma principal a icterícia; a ultra-sonografia não é um método diagnóstico eficaz, uma vez que demonstrou alteração de via biliar em cerca de 50% dos pacientes; tanto o procedimento endoscópico como o cirúrgico mostraram alto índice de clareamento da via biliar (acima de 90%), sendo a morbidade baixa e mortalidade nula em ambos os procedimentos; o período de internação foi menor quando o procedimento endoscópico foi realizado / Choledocholithiasis represents a great challenge in diagnostic evaluation and therapeutics. Because of it we\'ve proposed a retrospective study to analise the clinical and laboratorial criteria and image studies to the diagnosis of such condition. It was possible to evaluate the treatment (endoscopic or surgical) and complications with these information. Thus, with this aim, 32 (thirty-two) patients were evaluated. They were suffering from residual choledocholithiasis and were admitted on the Surgical Unit of the General Hospital of the Medical School of University of Goiás, from january 1995 to july 2001. It was included patients that were performed on a previous cholecistectomy. The diagnose of choledocholithiasis was get either during the surgery, although the definitive treatment had been postponed, or on the follow-up. We concluded that most part of the patients with residual choledocholithiasis were icteric and that the ultrasound study is not an effective method to detect residual choledocholithiasis (positive around 50%). Besides, both therapeutic procedures (endoscopic and surgical) were successful in the cleaning of biliary ducts (above 90%), had low morbidity and no mortality. The discharge of the patient was faster in case of endoscopic procedure

A retrospective mortality and cancer incidence study of former nuclear weapons assemblers from the Iowa Army Ammunitions Plant was conducted. This study examined whether or not workers at the plant exhibited higher rates of mortality or cancer as a result of their work-related activities. Potential exposures included radiation, beryllium, asbestos, and solvents. Cancer incidence was determined by calculating standardized incidence ratios (SIR) and using the Iowa population as reference. SIRs were calculated on 3,889 workers from1969-2005. Overall and cause-specific mortality was determined by calculating standardized mortality ratios (SMR) and using the U.S. and Iowa populations as reference. SMRs were calculated on 5,743 workers from 1947-2005. The SIR results showed that overall cancer incidence was lower than the Iowa population. Using the Iowa population as reference, the SMR analyses for men demonstrated excesses for all cancers (SMR 1.09, 95% CI 1.02-1.17), lung cancer (SMR 1.38, 95% CI 1.24-1.54), diseases of the respiratory system (SMR 1.15, 95% CI 1.03-1.46), mesothelioma (SMR 6.20, 95 % 1.28-18.1), asbestosis (SMR 9.28, 95% CI 1.12-33.5) and COPD (SMR 1.27, 95% CI 1.10-1.46). Significantly lower SMRs were observed stomach cancer and ischemic heart disease. For women excesses were observed for all cancers (SMR 1.41, 95% CI 1.17-1.69), lung cancer (SMR 2.47, 95% CI 1.72-3.44), ischemic heart disease (SMR 1.32, 95% CI 1.09-1.58), respiratory diseases (SMR 1.59, 95% CI 1.14-2.16), and COPD (SMR 2.47, 95% CI 1.60-3.65). Using the U.S. population, men experienced lower overall mortality while women had significantly higher overall mortality. In conclusion, the SIR portion of the study showed overall lower cancer incidence for both men and women. This may be due to the Healthy Worker Effect and the limited dates of study. There are no cancer registry data before 1969 thus missing cancers with short induction periods. Workers may have also moved out of the Iowa and had a cancer diagnosis in another state. Compared to Iowa population, there was an excess of respiratory disease deaths and deaths from lung cancer in both men and women. Considering the significant respiratory exposures workers may have experienced, further study with a nested case-control design is suggested.