bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epigenetic Control of Ccr7 Expression in Distinct Lineages of Lung Dendritic Cells
Authors: Moran Timothy P. , Nakano Hideki , Kondilis-Mangum Hrisavgi D. , Wade Paul A. , Cook Donald N.
Published: October 2014

Adaptive immune responses to inhaled allergens are induced following CCR7-dependent migration of precursor of dendritic cell (pre-DC)–derived conventional DCs (cDCs) from the lung to regional lymph nodes. However, monocyte-derived (moDCs) in the lung express very low levels of Ccr7 and consequently do not migrate efficiently to LN. To investigate the molecular mechanisms that underlie this dichotomy, we studied epigenetic modifications at the Ccr7 locus of murine cDCs and moDCs. When expanded from bone marrow precursors, moDCs were enriched at the Ccr7 locus for trimethylation of histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27me3), a modification associated with transcriptional repression. Similarly, moDCs prepared from the lung also displayed increased levels of H3K27me3 at the Ccr7 promoter compared with migratory cDCs from that organ. Analysis of DC progenitors revealed that epigenetic modification of Ccr7 does not occur early during DC lineage commitment because monocytes and pre-DCs both had low levels of Ccr7-associated H3K27me3. Rather, Ccr7 is gradually silenced during the differentiation of monocytes to moDCs. Thus, epigenetic modifications of the Ccr7 locus control the migration and therefore the function of DCs in vivo. These findings suggest that manipulating epigenetic mechanisms might be a novel approach to control DC migration and thereby improve DC-based vaccines and treat inflammatory diseases of the lung.
The C5a Anaphylatoxin Receptor (C5aR1) Protects against Listeria monocytogenes Infection by Inhibiting Type 1 IFN Expression
Authors: Calame Daniel G. , Mueller-Ortiz Stacey L. , Morales John E. , Wetsel Rick A.
Published: October 2014

Listeria monocytogenes is a major cause of mortality resulting from food poisoning in the United States. In mice, C5 has been genetically linked to host resistance to listeriosis. Despite this genetic association, it remains poorly understood how C5 and its activation products, C5a and C5b, confer host protection to this Gram-positive intracellular bacterium. In this article, we show in a systemic infection model that the major receptor for C5a, C5aR1, is required for a normal robust host immune response against L. monocytogenes. In comparison with wild-type mice, C5aR1−/− mice had reduced survival and increased bacterial burden in their livers and spleens. Infected C5aR1−/− mice exhibited a dramatic reduction in all major subsets of splenocytes, which was associated with elevated caspase-3 activity and increased TUNEL staining. Because type 1 IFN has been reported to impede the host response to L. monocytogenes through the promotion of splenocyte death, we examined the effect of C5aR1 on type 1 IFN expression in vivo. Indeed, serum levels of IFN-α and IFN-β were significantly elevated in L. monocytogenes–infected C5aR1−/− mice. Similarly, the expression of TRAIL, a type 1 IFN target gene and a proapoptotic factor, was elevated in NK cells isolated from infected C5aR1−/− mice. Treatment of C5aR1−/− mice with a type 1 IFNR blocking Ab resulted in near-complete rescue of L. monocytogenes–induced mortality. Thus, these findings reveal a critical role for C5aR1 in host defense against L. monocytogenes through the suppression of type 1 IFN expression.
A Systematic Review of the Biomarker S100B: Implications for Sport-Related Concussion Management
Authors: Schulte Stefanie , Podlog Leslie W. , Hamson-Utley J. Jordan , Strathmann Frederick G. , Strüder Heiko K.
Published: October 2014

Objective:

Elevated levels of the astroglial protein S100B have been shown to predict sport-related concussion. However, S100B levels within an athlete can vary depending on the type of physical activity (PA) engaged in and the methodologic approach used to measure them. Thus, appropriate reference values in the diagnosis of concussed athletes remain undefined. The purpose of our systematic literature review was to provide an overview of the current literature examining S100B measurement in the context of PA. The overall goal is to improve the use of the biomarker S100B in the context of sport-related concussion management.

Data Sources:

PubMed, SciVerse Scopus, SPORTDiscus, CINAHL, and Cochrane.

Study Selection:

We selected articles that contained (1) research studies focusing exclusively on humans in which (2) either PA was used as an intervention or the test participants or athletes were involved in PA and (3) S100B was measured as a dependent variable.

Data Extraction:

We identified 24 articles. Study variations included the mode of PA used as an intervention, sample types, sample-processing procedures, and analytic techniques.

Data Synthesis:

Given the nonuniformity of the analytical methods used and the data samples collected, as well as differences in the types of PA investigated, we were not able to determine a single consistent reference value of S100B in the context of PA. Thus, a clear distinction between a concussed athlete and a healthy athlete based solely on the existing S100B cutoff value of 0.1 μg/L remains unclear. However, because of its high sensitivity and excellent negative predictive value, S100B measurement seems to have the potential to be a diagnostic adjunct for concussion in sports settings. We recommend that the interpretation of S100B values be based on congruent study designs to ensure measurement reliability and validity.
Health-Related Quality of Life in Individuals With Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Houston Megan N. , Van Lunen Bonnie L. , Hoch Matthew C.
Published: October 2014

Context:

Individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI) have reported decreased global and regional function. Despite the identification of functional deficits in those with CAI, more research is required to determine the extent to which CAI influences the multidimensional profile of health-related quality of life.

Objective:

To determine whether global, regional, and psychological health-related outcomes differ between individuals with and without CAI.

Design:

Case-control study.

Setting:

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants:

Twenty-five participants with CAI (age = 21.9 ± 2.5 years, height = 170.8 ± 8.6 cm, mass = 69.8.0 ± 11.7 kg) were sex- and limb-matched to 25 healthy participants (age = 22.0 ± 2.1 years, height = 167.4 ± 9.1 cm, mass = 64.8 ± 11.2 kg).

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Both groups completed the Disablement in the Physically Active Scale, the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), the FAAM-Sport, the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11, and the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire. Dependent variables were scores on these instruments, and the independent variable was group.

Results:

Compared with healthy individuals, those with CAI reported decreased function on the Disablement in the Physically Active Scale, FAAM, and FAAM-Sport (P < .001) and increased fear of reinjury on the Tampa Scale of Kinesiophobia-11 and Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire (P < .001). In the CAI group, the FAAM and FAAM-Sport demonstrated a significant relationship (r = 0.774, P < .01).

Conclusions:

Individuals with CAI reported decreased function and increased fear of reinjury compared with healthy control participants. Also, within the CAI group, there was a strong relationship between FAAM and FAAM-Sport scores but not between any other instruments. These findings suggest that health-related quality of life should be examined during the rehabilitation process of individuals with CAI.
‘Keeping head above water’: A case study in religious leadership in a polluted context
Authors: Nell Ian A.
Published: October 2014

‘We must stop wasting our precious water – and also stop polluting it.’ These are the words of Dr Jo Barnes, Epidemiologist and Senior Lecturer in Community Health at the University of Stellenbosch’s Faculty for Health Sciences. Her research involves the quality of water in rivers and its health impact on communities. It is general knowledge that health services are struggling under the burden of diseases resulting from environmental pollution, particularly water pollution. This potentially avoidable crisis is slowly turning into a disaster. The article draws on a case study done in the informal settlement of Sweet Home Farm in Philippi, Cape Town, with the intent of compiling a descriptive empirical report on the way the community deals with human waste. In a next step, interpretive lenses are used to look with ‘deeper understanding’ at the problem of human waste and pollution. After that, the focus shifts to the problem of a theology of human waste, and the article concludes with suggestions on the role of religious leadership and ways in which leaders can play a constructive role in handling the crisis of a polluted context.Toilets in the modern water closets rise up from the floor like water lilies. The architect does all he can to make the body forget how paltry it is and to make man ignore what happens to his intestinal wastes after the water from the tank flushes them down the drain … Spontaneously, without any theological training, I, as a child, grasped the incompatibility of God and shit and thus came to question the basic thesis of Christian anthropology, namely that man was created in God’s image. Either/or: either man was created in God’s image – and has intestines! – or God lacks intestines and man is not like him. (Milan Kundera, The unbearable lightness of being 1984:132)Water is life, sanitation is dignity. (City of Cape Town, n.d., ‘Water and sanitation services standard’, Preliminary draft 2, March 2008)
An explorative study on factors influencing the career success of management employees
Authors: Koekemoer Eileen
Published: October 2014

Orientation: South African organisations are increasingly recognising the importance of attracting, developing and retaining top talent, especially management employees.Research purpose: In an attempt to help organisations with retaining talent, this study focused on career success and identified specific factors that influence the career success of managers in the South African work environment.Motivation for the study: Organisations need to establish favourable organisational conditions and human resource practices to retain their management employees. By identifying influential factors for the career success of managers, this research may help organisations to focus more accurately on their retention strategies for management employees.Research approach, design and method: The present study used a qualitative research design that followed an exploratory approach. A non-probability purposive sample of 24 senior management employees was selected from two financial institutions in South Africa. Qualitative data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews and the verbatim transcriptions were analysed by content analysis.Main findings: Managers identified various factors that impact on their career success. One can distinguish ‘external’ factors (e.g. political and economic climate and business environment) from ‘internal’ factors (e.g. individuals’ personal attributes, skills and education).Practical/managerial implications: Individuals should focus on the internal contributing factors, whilst organisations should manage the external contributing factors more effectively.Contribution/value-add: Specific South African factors that influence the career success of managers should be included in future retention strategies. From the findings it is suggested that both the individuals and organisations can implement strategies to ensure career success and thereby help retain the top talent in organisations.
Evaluating and improving a semi‐automated image analysis technique for identifying bivalve larvae
Authors: Goodwin Jacob D. , North Elizabeth W. , Thompson Christine M.
Published: October 2014

Knowledge of the distribution, abundance, and transport of bivalve larvae is limited due to their small size, similar morphologies between species, and lack of an automated approach for identification. The objective of this research is to evaluate and improve the accuracy of ShellBi, a novel supervised image classification method that uses birefringence patterns on the shells of bivalve larvae under polarized light to identify species. The performance of the ShellBi method was tested by rearing Crassostrea virginica (eastern oyster) larvae at different temperatures (21.3 and 27.5°C) and salinities (10.3, 14.1, 14.4, and 20.5). Differences in rearing temperatures resulted in differences in classification accuracy, as did large variations in salinity (≥10 units). classification accuracies increased from 67–88% to 97–99% when training sets included images of larvae reared in conditions similar to those of the larvae being classified. Additional tests indicate that misclassification rates ranged from 0 to 13% for false positives and from 0 to 22% for false negatives, depending on the proportion of oyster larvae in the sample. Results suggest that this technique could be applied to field samples with high accuracy as long as the images that are used to make classifications include larvae that were reared in conditions that are similar to those in situ. In addition, these findings demonstrate that the ShellBi method can be used to measure and identify bivalve larvae in a different system than the one for which it was developed, suggesting that the method has broad applicability in marine and estuarine systems.
Light Apparatus for Mesocosm Photo‐manipulation (LAMP): An inexpensive waterproof lighting device for within‐lake mesocosm experiments
Authors: Gillette Jacob P. , Schulz Kimberly L. , Teece Mark A.
Published: October 2014

Although light is a key biological driver, light additions to in‐lake experiments can be difficult, if not impossible. To address this problem, we developed an inexpensive Lighting Apparatus for Mesocosm Photo‐manipulation (LAMP), a device that can be deployed within experimental underwater enclosures to increase ambient light levels. Each apparatus consists of 12 Light Emitting Diode (LED) flashlights embedded within a watertight PVC frame. Through the use of a voltage regulator, each is wired to a 12V deep‐cycle marine battery. Twelve LAMPs were deployed during a 3.5‐week mesocosm experiment in Cranberry Lake in the Adirondack region of New York State and run 12 hours per day. LAMPs proved durable under harsh wind and weather conditions. Mesocosms with LAMPs had significantly higher average Photosynthetic Photon Flux Density (PPFD) in the water column than did controls (8% higher integrated Photosynthetic Active Radiation [PAR] over a 1.75 m depth, paired t test, P < 0.01). Other potential research applications for LAMPs include (1) testing light limitation in highly eutrophic systems where algal biomass may be self‐shading, (2) experimentation at depth (e.g., examination of light limitation at the deep chlorophyll maximum), (3) application at different depths or in water bodies where specific wavelengths have been naturally attenuated using LEDs with different spectral properties, (4) testing animal responses to light climate in the field, or (5) collection of macroinvertebrates or fish larvae in modified LAMP‐based light traps.
A simple headspace equilibration method for measuring dissolved methane
Authors: Magen Cédric , Lapham Laura L. , Pohlman John W. , Marshall Kathleen , Bosman Samantha , Casso Michael , Chanton Jeffrey P.
Published: October 2014

Dissolved methane concentrations in the ocean are close to equilibrium with the atmosphere. Because methane is only sparingly soluble in seawater, measuring it without contamination is challenging for samples collected and processed in the presence of air. Several methods for analyzing dissolved methane are described in the literature, yet none has conducted a thorough assessment of the method yield, contamination issues during collection, transport and storage, and the effect of temperature changes and preservative. Previous extraction methods transfer methane from water to gas by either a "sparge and trap" or a "headspace equilibration" technique. The gas is then analyzed for methane by gas chromatography. Here, we revisit the headspace equilibration technique and describe a simple, inexpensive, and reliable method to measure methane in fresh and seawater, regardless of concentration. Within the range of concentrations typically found in surface seawaters (2‐1000 nmol L‐1), the yield of the method nears 100% of what is expected from solubility calculation following the addition of known amount of methane. In addition to being sensitive (detection limit of 0.1 ppmv, or 0.74 nmol L‐1), this method requires less than 10 min per sample, and does not use highly toxic chemicals. It can be conducted with minimum materials and does not require the use of a gas chromatograph at the collection site. It can therefore be used in various remote working environments and conditions.
Identifying sea scallops from benthic camera images
Authors: Kannappan Prasanna , Walker Justin H. , Trembanis Art , Tanner Herbert G.
Published: October 2014

The article presents an algorithmic framework for the automated analysis of benthic imagery data. The data are collected by an autonomous underwater vehicle for the purpose of population assessment of epibenthic organisms, such as scallops. The architecture consists of three layers of processing: visual attention, graph‐cut segmentation methods, and template matching. The visual attention layer filters the imagery input, focusing subsequent processing only on regions in the images that are likely to contain target objects. The segmentation layer prepares for subsequent template matching. Finally, template matching classifies filtered objects into targets and distractors. The significance of the proposed approach is in its modular nature and its ability to process imagery datasets of low resolution, brightness, and contrast.
Adaptation Theory and Criticism
Authors: Slethaug Gordon E.
Published: October 2014

Traditional critics of film adaptation generally assumed a) that the written text is better than the film adaptation because the plot is more intricate and the language richer when pictorial images do not intrude; b) that films are better when particularly faithful to the original; c) that authors do not make good script writers and should not sully their imagination by writing film scripts; d) and often that American films lack the complexity of authored texts because they are sourced out of Hollywood. The ‘faithfulness’ view has by and large disappeared, and intertextuality is now a generally received notion, but the field still lacks studies with a postmodern methodology and lens.Exploring Hollywood feature films as well as small studio productions, Adaptation Theory and Criticism explores the intertextuality of a dozen films through a series of case studies introduced through discussions of postmodern methodology and practice. Providing the reader with informative background on theories of film adaptation as well as carefully articulated postmodern methodology and issues, Gordon Slethaug includes several case studies of major Hollywood productions and small studio films, some of which have been discussed before (Age of Innocence, Gangs of New York, and Do the Right Thing) and some that have received lesser consideration (Six Degrees of Separation, Smoke, Smoke Signals, Broken Flowers, and various Snow White narratives including Enchanted, Mirror Mirror, and Snow White and the Huntsman). Useful for both film and literary studies students, Adaptation Theory and Criticism cogently combines the existing scholarship and uses previous theories to engage readers to think about the current state of American literature and film.
Race and America’s Immigrant Press
Authors: Zecker Robert M.
Published: October 2014

Race was all over the immigrant newspaper week after week. As early as the 1890s the papers of the largest Slovak fraternal societies covered lynchings in the South. While somewhat sympathetic, these articles nevertheless enabled immigrants to distance themselves from the “blackness” of victims, and became part of a strategy of asserting newcomers’ tentative claims to “whiteness.” Southern and eastern European immigrants began to think of themselves as white people. They asserted their place in the U.S. and demanded the right to be regarded as “Caucasians,” with all the privileges that accompanied this designation. Circa 1900 eastern Europeans were slightingly dismissed as “Asiatic” or “African,” but there has been insufficient attention paid to the ways immigrants themselves began the process of race tutoring through their own institutions. Immigrant newspapers offered a stunning array of lynching accounts, poems and cartoons mocking blacks, and paeans to America’s imperial adventures in the Caribbean and Asia. Immigrants themselves had a far greater role to play in their own racial identity formation than has so far been acknowledged.
Systematic satellite observations of the impact of aerosols from passive volcanic degassing on local cloud properties
Authors: Ebmeier S. K. , Sayer A. M. , Grainger R. G. , Mather T. A. , Carboni E.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. The impact of volcanic emissions, especially from passive degassing and minor explosions, is a source of uncertainty in estimations of aerosol indirect effects. Observations of the impact of volcanic aerosol on clouds contribute to our understanding of both present-day atmospheric properties and of the pre-industrial baseline necessary to assess aerosol radiative forcing. We present systematic measurements over several years at multiple active and inactive volcanic islands in regions of low present-day aerosol burden. The time-averaged indirect aerosol effects within 200 km downwind of island volcanoes are observed using Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS, 2002–2013) and Advanced Along-Track Scanning Radiometer (AATSR, 2002–2008) data. Retrievals of aerosol and cloud properties at Kīlauea (Hawai'i), Yasur (Vanuatu) and Piton de la Fournaise (la Réunion) are rotated about the volcanic vent to be parallel to wind direction, so that upwind and downwind retrievals can be compared. The emissions from all three volcanoes – including those from passive degassing, Strombolian activity and minor explosions – lead to measurably increased aerosol optical depth downwind of the active vent. Average cloud droplet effective radius is lower downwind of the volcano in all cases, with the peak difference ranging from 2–8 μm at the different volcanoes in different seasons. Estimations of the difference in Top of Atmosphere upward Short Wave flux upwind and downwind of the active volcanoes from NASA's Clouds and the Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) suggest a downwind elevation of between 10 and 45 Wm−2 at distances of 150–400 km from the volcano, with much greater local (< 80 km) effects. Comparison of these observations with cloud properties at isolated islands without degassing or erupting volcanoes suggests that these patterns are not purely orographic in origin. Our observations of unpolluted, isolated marine settings may capture processes similar to those in the pre-industrial marine atmosphere.
Air quality in Delhi during the Commonwealth Games
Authors: Marrapu P. , Cheng Y. , Beig G. , Sahu S. , Srinivas R. , Carmichael G. R.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Air quality during the Commonwealth Games (CWG, held in Delhi in October 2010) is analyzed using a new air quality forecasting system established for the games. The CWG stimulated enhanced efforts to monitor and model air quality in the region. The air quality of Delhi during the CWG had high levels of particles with mean values of PM2.5 and PM10 at the venues of 111 and 238 μg m−3, respectively. Black carbon (BC) accounted for ~ 10% of the PM2.5 mass. It is shown that BC, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations are well predicted, but with positive biases of ~ 25%. The diurnal variations are also well captured, with both the observations and the modeled values showing nighttime maxima and daytime minima. A new emissions inventory, developed as part of this air quality forecasting initiative, is evaluated by comparing the observed and predicted species-species correlations (i.e., BC : CO; BC : PM2.5; PM2.5 : PM10). Assuming that the observations at these sites are representative and that all the model errors are associated with the emissions, then the modeled concentrations and slopes can be made consistent by scaling the emissions by 0.6 for NOx, 2 for CO, and 0.7 for BC, PM2.5, and PM10. The emission estimates for particles are remarkably good considering the uncertainty in the estimates due to the diverse spread of activities and technologies that take place in Delhi and the rapid rates of change. The contribution of various emission sectors including transportation, power, domestic and industry to surface concentrations are also estimated. Transport, domestic and industrial sectors all make significant contributions to PM levels in Delhi, and the sectoral contributions vary spatially within the city. Ozone levels in Delhi are elevated, with hourly values sometimes exceeding 100 ppb. The continued growth of the transport sector is expected to make ozone pollution a more pressing air pollution problem in Delhi. The sector analysis provides useful inputs into the design of strategies to reduce air pollution levels in Delhi. The contribution for sources outside of Delhi on Delhi air quality range from ~ 25% for BC and PM to ~ 60% for day time ozone. The significant contributions from non-Delhi sources indicates that in Delhi (as has been show elsewhere) these strategies will also need a more regional perspective.
Rainfall feedback via persistent effects on bioaerosols
Authors: Bigg E. K. , Soubeyrand S. , Morris C. E.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Consistent temporal differences between ice nucleus concentrations after and before a heavy fall of rain have been found in four areas of Australia. Closely similar differences were found between rainfall quantity or frequency at 106 sites in south-eastern and 61 sites in south-western Australia that had >92 years of daily rainfall records. The differences suggest an impulsive increase in ice nuclei or in rain on the day following heavy rain that decreased exponentially with time and was often still detectable after 20 days. The similarity of ice nucleus concentrations, bacterial populations, bioaerosols and rainfall responses to heavy rain strongly corroborate the involvement of biological ice nuclei in a rainfall feedback process. Cumulative differences of after-before rainfall amount or frequency for each rainfall event were next combined to form a historical record of the feedback process for each site. Comparison of cumulative totals pre-1960 and post-1960 showed differences bearing apparent relations to upwind coal-fired power stations, growth of metropolitan areas and increased areas of cultivation of wheat. These observations suggested that fungal spores or other bioaerosols as well as ice-nucleating bacteria were involved in the feedback. The overall conclusion is that interactions between micro-organisms, bioaerosols and rainfall have impacts over longer time spans and are stronger than have been previously described.
The Heidelberg Airborne Imaging DOAS Instrument (HAIDI) – a novel imaging DOAS device for 2-D and 3-D imaging of trace gases and aerosols
Authors: General S. , Pöhler D. , Sihler H. , Bobrowski N. , Frieß U. , Zielcke J. , Horbanski M. , Shepson P. B. , Stirm B. H. , Simpson W. R. , Weber K. , Fischer C. , Platt U.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Many relevant processes in tropospheric chemistry take place on rather small scales (e.g., tens to hundreds of meters) but often influence areas of several square kilometer. Thus, measurements of the involved trace gases with high spatial resolution are of great scientific interest. In order to identify individual sources and sinks and ultimately to improve chemical transport models, we developed a new airborne instrument, which is based on the well established Differential Optical Absorption Spectroscopy (DOAS) method. The Heidelberg Airborne Imaging DOAS Instrument (HAIDI) is a passive imaging DOAS spectrometer, which is capable of recording horizontal and vertical trace gas distributions with a resolution of better than 100 m. Observable species include NO2, HCHO, C2H2O2, H2O, O3, O4, SO2, IO, OClO and BrO. Here we give a technical description of the instrument including its custom-built spectrographs and CCD detectors. Also first results from measurements with the new instrument are presented. These comprise spatial resolved SO2 and BrO in volcanic plumes, mapped at Mt. Etna (Sicily, Italy), NO2 emissions in the metropolitan area of Indianapolis (Indiana, USA) as well as BrO and NO2 distributions measured during arctic springtime in context of the BRomine, Ozone, and Mercury EXperiment (BROMEX) campaign, which was performed 2012 in Barrow (Alaska, USA).
After the extreme flood in 2002: changes in preparedness, response and recovery of flood-affected residents in Germany between 2005 and 2011
Authors: Kienzler S. , Pech I. , Kreibich H. , Müller M. , Thieken A. H.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. In the aftermath of the severe flood in August 2002, a number of changes in flood policies were launched in Germany and other European countries aiming at an improved risk management. The question arises, whether these changes have already an impact on the residents' capabilities of coping with floods and whether flood-affected private households are now better prepared than in 2002. Therefore, computer-aided telephone interviews with private households in Germany that suffered from property damage due to flooding in 2005, 2006, 2010 or 2011 were performed and analysed with respect to flood awareness, precaution, preparedness and recovery. The data were compared to a similar investigation after the flood in 2002. After the flood in 2002, the level of private precaution increased considerably. One contribution factor is that a larger part of people knew that they are at risk of flooding. Yet this knowledge did not necessarily result in building retrofitting or flood proofing measures. The best level of precaution was found before the flood events in 2006 and 2011. This might be explained by more flood experience and overall greater awareness of the residents. Still, costs and damage avoiding benefits of these measures have to be communicated in a better way. Early warning and emergency response were substantially influenced by flood characteristics. In contrast to flood-affected people in 2006 or 2011, people affected by flooding in 2005 or 2010 had to deal with shorter lead times, less time to take emergency measures; consequently they suffered from higher losses. Therefore, it is important to further improve early warning systems and communication channels, particularly in hilly areas with fast onset flooding.
Scale effect on runoff and soil loss control using rice straw mulch under laboratory conditions
Authors: Sadeghi S. H. R. , Gholami L. , Sharifi Moghadam E. , Khaledi Darvishan A.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Amendments can control the runoff and soil loss by protecting soil surface. However, scale effects on runoff and soil loss control has not been considered yet. The present study has been formulated to determine the efficiency of two plot sizes of 6 and 0.25 m2 covered by straw mulch with rate of 0.5 kg m−2 in changing the time to runoff, runoff coefficient, sediment concentration and soil loss under laboratory conditions. The study has been conducted for a sandy-loam soil taken from summer rangeland, Alborz Mountains, Northern Iran under simulated rainfall intensities of 50 and 90 mm h−1 and in 3 replicates. The results of the study showed that the straw mulch had more significant effect in in reducing runoff coefficient, sediment concentration and soil loss at 0.25 m2 plot scale. The maximum effectiveness in time to runoff for both the scales, observed in rainfall intensity of 90 mm h−1. The maximum increasing and decreasing rates in time to runoff and runoff coefficient observed in the rainfall intensity of 90 mm h−1 with the amounts of 367.92 and 96.71% for 0.25 m2 plot and the amounts of 110.10 and 15.08% for 6 m2 plot respectively. The maximum change of soil loss in both the intensities of 50 and 90 mm h−1 occurred at 0.25 m2 plot with the amount of 100% whereas at 6 m2 plot, decreasing rates of soil loss for in both the intensities of 50 and 90 mm h−1 were 46.74 and 63.24%, respectively.
Characterization and interaction of driving factors in karst rocky desertification: a case study from Changshun, China
Authors: Xu E. Q. , Zhang H. Q.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. As the most severe ecological issue in Southwest China, karst rocky desertification (KRD) has both threatened and constrained regional sustainable development. Comprehensively understanding the relationship between the evolution of KRD and relevant driving data would provide more information to combat KRD in such complex karst environments. Past studies have been limited in quantifying the relative importance of driving factors influencing fine-scale KRD evolution, and have also lacked insight into their interactive impacts. To address these issues, we have used geographical information system techniques and a geographical detector model to explore the spatial consistency of driving factors and their interactions in relation to the evolution of KRD. Changshun County in China was selected as a representative area for the study. Nine relevant driving factors, including both natural and anthropogenic factors, were studied in regard to their relationships with KRD transformation between 2000 and 2010. Our results demonstrate the relative importance of driving data in influencing the improvement and deterioration of KRD. Lithology, soil type and road influence are identified as the leading factors. Interestingly, to our study at least, there is no significant difference between the impacts of natural and anthropogenic factors. Factors were found to enhance the influence of each other for KRD transformation. In particular, the results show a non-linearly enhanced effect between driving factors, which significantly aggravates KRD. New information found in our study helps to effectively control and restore areas afflicted by KRD.
Influence of stress, temperature and crystal morphology on isothermal densification and specific surface area decrease of new snow
Authors: Schleef S. , Löwe H. , Schneebeli M.
Published: October 2014

Abstract. Laboratory-based, experimental data for the microstructural evolution of new snow are scarce, though applications would benefit from a quantitative characterization of the main influences. To this end, we have analyzed the metamorphism and concurrent densification of new snow under isothermal conditions by means of X-ray microtomography and compiled a comprehensive data set of 45 time series. In contrast to previous measurements on isothermal metamorphism on time scales of weeks to months, we analyzed the initial 24–48 h of snow evolution at a high temporal resolution of 3 hours. The data set comprised natural and laboratory-grown snow, and experimental conditions included systematic variations of overburden stress, temperature and crystal habit to address the main influences on specific surface area (SSA) decrease rate and densification rate in a snowpack. For all conditions, we found a linear relation between density and SSA, indicating that metamorphism has an immediate influence for the densification of new snow. The slope of the linear relation, however, depends on the other parameters which were analyzed individually to derive a best-fit parameterization for the SSA decrease rate and densification rate. In the investigated parameter range, we found that the initial value of the SSA constituted the main morphological influence on the SSA decrease rate. In turn, the SSA decrease rate constituted the main influence on the densification rate.
The Relation between Human Capital and Economic Growth in MENA Countries
Authors: Acaroğlu Hakan , Altun Ada Ayşen
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study is to analyze the relation between human capital and economic growth for the years between 1990 and 2011 in 15 MENA (Middle East and North Africa) countries. Knowles and Owen’s (1995) model which is based on Mankiw et al. (1992)’s Augmented Solow Model in principle is used as the economic model in the study. However, the statistical analysis is panel-data for the countries. Human capital is represented by both health and education at the same time. The findings show that public expenditure on human capital does not have any significant effect on economic growth neither in terms of health nor education. But this does not change the fact that when health and education quality are improved, the GDP per capita would increase, thus growth can be much more effective.
The Influence of E-government Practices on good governance from the perspective of Public in Lebanon
Authors: Alaaraj Hassan , Ibrahim Professor Dr. Fatimah Wati
Published: October 2014

The objective of this study was to examine empirically the influence of e-government practices on good governance from the perspectives of public in Lebanon. This paper presents a theoretical research framework to determine the relationships between the proposed variables supported by literature review from previous studies. Questionnaires were distributed among managers and employees from 600 SMEs in Beirut and the usable response rate was 94%. To test the relationships, four hypotheses were developed in which two were accepted and two were rejected upon data analysis using SPSS and AMOS. The main research outcomes indicate that in general, e-government practices have a positive and significant influence on good governance. Particularly, good governance is positively and significantly influenced by e-service but not by e-administration and e-procurement. Finally, limitations of the study were discussed for recommending future studies especially at the empirical level.
Autonomie, ambtelijke organisaties en criminaliteitsbestrijding
Authors: van Gestel Barbra , Verhoeven Maite
Published: October 2014

Autonomy, bureaucracy and law enforcement. About collaboration between law enforcement agencies to combat human trafficking

How do organisations collaborate in the daily practice of law enforcement? And what role plays autonomy of government agencies within this cooperation? In this article the authors answer these questions on the base of two case studies: two large scale projects in which a partnership approach was used to combat human trafficking in the Netherlands. Collaboration between city administration, investigation services and tax authorities seems to be very hard to put into practice. This is understandable from the theory that government agencies, while performing their tasks, are focused on achieving autonomy.
Conflits travail-famille et intention de quitter dans le domaine de la santé
Authors: Rhnima Aziz , Wils Thierry , Pousa Claudio E. , Frigon Mélanie
Published: October 2014

La conciliation entre la vie professionnelle et la vie de famille cristallise un défi majeur aussi bien pour les travailleurs, les organisations que pour la société. De nombreux changements et mutations survenus dans le marché du travail et dans la vie familiale participent de l’avènement de cette situation (c.-à-d. les exigences accrues au niveau de la charge de travail suite aux restructurations, les changements fréquents d’affectation, la nécessité d’accorder des soins particuliers à des membres de la famille, etc.). Plusieurs facteurs nocifs à la performance des entreprises découlent de cette situation dont, entre autres, la recrudescence actuelle des comportements de retrait, des intentions de quitter et du roulement volontaire des travailleurs. Ce contexte s’avère particulièrement préoccupant dans le secteur de la santé, notamment chez le personnel infirmier.

L’objectif général de la présente recherche est d’étudier l’influence de différents conflits travail-famille à l’endroit de l’intention de quitter l’organisation au niveau du personnel infirmier. Deux modèles théoriques rivaux, soit le modèle du stress organisationnel et le modèle d’effets d’entraînement, prétendent expliquer l’influence des conflits travail-famille sur l’intention de quitter l’organisation. Le but de cette étude est de vérifier lequel de ces deux modèles théoriques explique le mieux l’influence de la conceptualisation multidimensionnelle de ce conflit (deux directions de ce conflit, soit travail→famille et famille→travail exprimées chacune en termes de temps, d’effort et de comportement) à l’endroit de l’intention de quitter. À partir d’un échantillon de 404 sujets provenant du personnel infirmier d’un centre hospitalier, l’analyse de régression hiérarchique montre que le modèle du stress organisationnel explique davantage l’intention de quitter l’organisation que le modèle d’effets d’entraînement. En outre, les résultats indiquent que ce sont les ingérences de la vie d’emploi, en termes de temps et surtout d’effort, qui intensifient l’intention de quitter. Des avenues de recherche et des implications managériales sont déduites à la lumière des résultats enregistrés.
Organizational Contexts for Union Renewal
Authors: Yu Kyoung-Hee
Published: October 2014

This article seeks to identify organizational structures and processes that contribute to incorporating immigrant identities and fostering democratic participation in unions. Empirical analysis is based on ethnographic observations conducted in four local branches within the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) of the USA that underwent the Justice for Janitors campaign. Despite the fact that all four local unions experienced external revitalization owing to the campaign, internal renewal was most successful in Los Angeles, least in Washington DC, and somewhat successful in Boston and Houston. For each of the cases, I examine the connection between external dimensions of revitalization—initial mobilizing efforts, bargaining power, and political power—and organizational contexts for renewal—formal and informal structures for participation, and the engagement of immigrant members in union activities. While the union revitalization literature has argued that internal union renewal facilitates external revitalization, how external revitalization affects sustained internal renewal has not yet been examined thoroughly. Most studies examining the relationship between internal and external revitalization have had a relatively narrow window of observation ending typically with successful union recognition; thus, we lacked an understanding of the dynamic relationship between internal and external revitalization over time. The present findings suggest that external revitalization can assist internal renewal. However, building a powerful union did not automatically guarantee democratic participation, and acquiring more economic power through the merging of local unions weakened representational structures. The present results confirm the importance of studying revitalization as a process instead of an outcome, an argument which has been advanced by scholars, yet rarely practiced.
The Relationship between the Internal Labour Market and Transitions from Temporary to Permanent Employment in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyondong , Lee Dong-Jin
Published: October 2014

Over the past decade, Korean businesses have experienced significant growth in the proportion of temporary employment. In response, the Korean government has enacted the “Temporary Employment Protection Act” to curb the use of temporary employment. With these legislative changes, Korean employers confront choices about whether to encourage transitions from temporary to permanent employment or to utilise outsourcing/contracting services. The purpose of this study is to explore internal labour markets (ILMs) and investigate why companies are willing to transform temporary employment into permanent employment. Furthermore, in the face of market volatility, we consider how companies are willing to increase the number of temporary workers in order to more easily adjust the numbers and types of human resources, rather than constructing and establishing ILMs within a firm. By investigating the interrelated relationships between ILMs, environmental dynamism, and transitions from temporary to permanent employment status, this study elaborates the features of ILMs in making employment decisions.

The statistical results of this study show that structural elements of ILMs facilitate transitions from temporary to permanent employment. Among ILMs, only seniority-based pay plans reduce the number of permanent employees transferred from temporary status when companies experience dynamic changes in their environments. Furthermore, ILMs exerted greater influences over employers’ decisions about transitions from temporary to permanent employment a few years after the enactment of changes in temporary labour laws and regulations.

This study shows that the features of an employment system determine companies’ decisions about temporary versus permanent employment. ILMs shape and establish organisational norms and cultural traditions that determine employment structures. Furthermore, institutionalised environments also determine whether employers decide to make transitions from temporary to permanent employment. Future studies should pay attention to the features of employment systems as determinants regarding firms’ human capital.
Envergure du poste et engagement : le rôle modérateur du soutien et des relations avec le supérieur
Authors: Marchand Catherine , Vandenberghe Christian
Published: October 2014

Cette étude examine l’effet modérateur du contexte relationnel des emplois dans la relation entre les caractéristiques du travail et l’engagement affectif envers l’organisation, la profession et la clientèle. Le contexte relationnel est appréhendé par le soutien organisationnel perçu (SOP) et la qualité des relations leader-membre (de l’anglais, leader-member exchange, LMX). Nous émettons l’hypothèse que le soutien organisationnel est perçu comme permettant de combler les besoins socio-émotionnels des employés et révélant une compréhension indulgente de l’organisation envers ses employés. À l’inverse, la qualité des relations leader-membre reflète une approche d’échange social dans laquelle le soutien du supérieur est associé à une finalité d’amélioration du rendement de l’employé. Ces considérations amènent à prédire que le SOP devrait agir comme un modérateur négatif des effets des caractéristiques du travail (envergure du poste) sur l’engagement affectif envers les trois cibles examinées. Au contraire, nous prévoyons que la qualité des relations leader-membre (LMX) agira comme un modérateur positif des effets de l’envergure du poste sur l’engagement affectif.

Ces hypothèses ont été vérifiées lors d’une étude menée en deux temps. D’abord, au temps 1 ont été mesurées l’envergure du poste (variété de la tâche, signification, autonomie, identité et rétroaction; Hackman et Oldham, 1980), le soutien organisationnel perçu (SOP) et la qualité des relations leader-membre (LMX). Par la suite, soit six mois plus tard, l’engagement affectif envers l’organisation, la profession et la clientèle a été évalué. Sur la base d’un échantillon aléatoire de 208 employés gradués en gestion, droit, génie et sciences pures d’une université belge et occupant des emplois dans des organisations variées, les analyses de régression multiple modérée montrent que la relation (positive) entre l’envergure du poste et les trois dimensions de l’engagement affectif s’avère plus faible lorsque le soutien organisationnel perçu est élevé. En revanche, la relation (positive) entre l’envergure du poste et l’engagement affectif envers la profession ainsi qu’envers la clientèle se révèle plus forte lorsque la qualité des relations leader-membre (LMX) est élevée. Nous discuterons de la portée de ces résultats.