bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DETERMINANTS OF CLOUD COMPUTING ADOPTION BY ROMANIAN SMES IN THE DIGITAL ECONOMY
Authors: Dincă Violeta Mihaela , Dima Alina Mihaela , Rozsa Zoltán
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this paper is to explore the process of Cloud Computing adoption within Romanian Small and Medium sized Enterprises in the digital age. Most of the scientific papers related to this topic examine the general outlook of cloud computing implementation in Romania and focus on the use of the afore-mentioned technologies by large scale companies. In order to identify the factors that have an influence over the choice of Romanian SMEs to adopt cloud computing technology, a conceptual model has been set forth. The model’s dependent variable is the choice of the company’s management to implement cloud computing technologies. Five different independent types of variable structures which have an effect on the adoption of cloud computing within SMEs were identified. The five categories of variables are competition & government, ICT providers & firm departments, employee, manager and technological factors. Each of these categories of determinants encompasses at their turn two or more constructs.

An online survey tested the model based on the responses of managers and directors from 198 Romanian SMEs from the cities of Bucharest and Cluj. The validity of the model was performed by completing factor analysis and reliability tests of the data; a logistic regression analysis was deployed to test the research hypotheses. The results emphasized that the managers’ know-how on cloud computing and the perceived costs of implementing the technology represent the main components influencing the spreading of cloud computing among Romanian SMEs. This study makes a valuable contribution to the academic environment but to businesses as well. The model can be used to examine the implementation of different innovative applications. Companies which offer cloud computing services could take advantage of the outcomes of this study to expand the degree of cloud service introduction among SMEs.
PRODUCTIVITY AS A DETERMINANT OF LABOUR WAGE IN NEW ZEALAND’S CONSTRUCTION SECTOR
Authors: Ozturk Mustafa , Durdyev Serdar , Aras Osman Nuri , Banaitis Audrius
Published: June 2019

The empirical relationships between labour wages, unemployment rate and the labour productivity index in New Zealand’s construction sector (for the period of 1983–2017) were investigated. The Johansen cointegration test and vector error correction mechanism were used to determine the existence of long-run relationships between the variables and the adjustment process of the short-run disequilibrium into the long-run equilibrium. The results show that the labour productivity index positively affects the labour wage, while the effect of unemployment rate is negative in the long run. That is, the more productive the labour, the more the wages earned. Related statistical tests on the residuals proved that the model and its findings are reliable.
La murra en Sardaigne : un duel sans se toucher
Authors: Euvrard Élisabeth
Published: June 2019

Jeu traditionnel encore très pratiqué en Sardaigne, la murra consiste à deviner la somme des doigts que se montrent simultanément deux adversaires qui s’affrontent face à face à une cadence soutenue, en hurlant des mots vexants entre les points pour tenter de s’intimider. La passion produite par les tournois, mais aussi par la revendication d’une identité subalterne, ainsi que par l’expression d’une masculinité mise en crise par la mondialisation, nourrit tout à la fois les dimensions corporelle, sociale et culturelle de la murra , entre jeu et combat.
Le grand show du sport-spectacle. Les avatars du catch à la télévision : France, États-Unis (1958-2018)
Authors: Lamoureux Christophe
Published: June 2019

Au catch, sport-spectacle hybride et facétieux, la mise en scène se présente comme une fabrique de l’excès, la ritualité joue comme médiatrice de transgression, le corps est exhibé comme réceptacle de la souffrance, le contentieux est utilisé comme opérateur moral et le stéréotype fonctionne comme intégrateur culturel. L’article montre comment hier et aujourd’hui, en France et aux États-Unis, la télévision s’est emparée de la violence simulée du catch pour séduire un public de fans réceptif à la rhétorique du show et à ses récits édifiants. Désormais « le business catch américain » a standardisé un modèle de fabrication qui structure une vision esthétisée du combat et met en abîme sa mécanique commerciale. Il en résulte une appétence générationnelle pour une culture de scène qui se diffuse dans le monde entier.
« C’est la réalité ! » : de quelques cas de violence virtuelle et d’efficacité rituelle dans le BDSM communautaire
Authors: Czuser Adrien
Published: June 2019

À travers deux études de cas, provenant de sessions d’observations ethnographiques réalisées au sein d’un « donjon » français, théâtre de jeux sado-masochistes communautaires, cet article propose de démontrer le caractère virtuel, mais aussi rituel, des jeux BDSM ici considérés. Il s’agira pour ce faire de témoigner de la « construction sociale de la réalité » opérée par ce type d’interactions, propices à produire un effet d’authenticité de la violence tout en demeurant soucieuses du maintien d’un cadre expérientiel fictionnel. En faisant notamment état des (potentielles) variations d’engagement des protagonistes dans le jeu, je montrerai que l’instabilité expérientielle et interprétative qui en découle, ainsi que l’ « hyper-réalisme » précaire des actions idéalement effectuées dans ce contexte, participent à l’efficacité rituelle des jeux BDSM.
La béance. Notes, carnets et brouillons de Germaine Tillion
Authors: Lamy Jérôme
Published: June 2019

En saisissant l’œuvre de Germaine Tillion à partir des traces archivistiques qu’elle a laissées, cet article se propose de recomposer un parcours savant marqué par l’épreuve de la déportation qui fut également une béance documentaire. À Ravensbrück, Germaine Tillion a perdu ses archives d’ethnologue et le manuscrit presque achevé de sa thèse. L’analyse de ses premiers carnets et de ses notes de cours nous informe sur sa préparation au métier d’ethnologue. Les rares documents restituant son parcours dans les Aurès au cours des années 1930 révèlent l’affermissement d’une pratique scientifique. La guerre et la déportation ont été l’occasion de poursuivre l’effort d’une observation ethnographique dans des conditions terrifiantes. Enfin, la rédaction de Il était une fois l’ethnographie – retour sur le travail dans les Aurès – a livré des brouillons d’une rare densité, dont l’édition finale ne rend pas compte. La béance documentaire a donc organisé la vie savante de Germaine Tillion. C’est en poursuivant son effort d’ethnographie dans toutes les situations de sa vie qu’elle a accompli son geste scientifique, dépassant et débordant la perte archivistique de ses premiers efforts de recherche.
Oum, une voix qui porte...
Authors: Tazdaït Fawzia
Published: June 2019

En nous intéressant à certains aspects du parcours de la grande chanteuse arabe Oum Kalthoum, nous analyserons comment son art lui a permis d’accéder à un statut quasi religieux, de femme libre, et de femme engagée. En d’autres termes, la trajectoire singulière de la Diva sera envisagée dans ses rapports avec le pouvoir divin, le pouvoir masculin, et le pouvoir politique.
Adoption and Perceived Usefulness of Social Media by Pre-service Teachers in Nigeria
Authors: Ogbonnaya Ugorji Iheanachor
Published: June 2019

Social media networks are fundamentally changing the way we socialize, communicate, and perhaps the way students learn. This paper explored the patterns of pre-service teachers’ adoption and their perceived usefulness of social media. The participants were 388 pre-service teachers from one tertiary institution in Nigeria. The social constructivist theory, the Theory of Planned Behaviour and the Technology Acceptance Model were used to underpin the study. The result revealed that Facebook and WhatsApp were the most common social media applications used by the participants and they use the media chiefly for socialising. With respect to the time they spent on social media daily, 310 (80%) spent at least one hour on social media on average daily while 196 (50%) spent over two hours on average every day. The relationships between social media subscriptions, and perceived usefulness of social media for socialising and for communication, were found to be positive and statistically significant. Similarly, the relationships between the time spent on social media and perceived usefulness of social media for socialising and also for study were found to be positive and statistically significant. The results suggest that the pre-service teachers are adopters of social media and perceive the media useful not only for social activities but also for academic purposes. However, they have not really adopted the social media for academic purposes. The research findings make a compelling case for the incorporation of social media into the teaching and learning context.
Skin tissue expression and serum level of thymic stromal lymphopoietin in patients with psoriasis vulgaris
Authors: Suwarsa Oki , Dharmadji Hartati Purbo , Sutedja Endang , Herlina Lengga , Sori Putri Reno , Hindritiani Reti , Dwiyana Reiva Farah , Gunawan Hendra
Published: June 2019

Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is known to be associated with allergic diseases. It is also suggested that TSLP has a role in autoimmune diseases such as psoriasis; however, the associated pathways remain unknown. There is currently little information on TSLP in psoriasis vulgaris. We investigated TSLP expressions on lesional and non-lesional skin of psoriasis vulgaris patients using reverse transcription- polymerase chain reaction. TSLP level was also investigated in serum from psoriasis vulgaris patients compared to healthy control using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. TSLP expression was higher in lesional skin (1.90) compared to non-lesional skin (1.76); however, the difference was not statistically significant (P>0.05). TSLP serum levels were significantly higher in psoriasis patients (287.40 pg/dL) as compared to controls (114.70 pg/dL) (P<0.05). This study concluded that TSLP levels in the serum of psoriasis vulgaris patients are higher than controls. TSLP was also found in keratinocyte of psoriasis patients, the expression was higher in the lesional compared to non-lesional skin; however, this difference is statistically insignificant. These findings suggest that TSLP may play a role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis vulgaris, but its exact role remains unclear.
An analysis of the accounting practices of junior exploration companies in South Africa
Authors: Sturdy Joline , Cronjé Christo
Published: June 2019

IFRS 6, Exploration for and evaluation of mineral resources, allows junior exploration companies to develop their own accounting policies with regard to exploration and evaluation expenditure. This will result, as indicated by the research problem, in inconsistent accounting practices among different companies. The objective of this article is to identify the various accounting treatments of exploration expenditure and to develop recommendations for consistent application of accounting practices. Relevant literature is critically analysed and the judgement sampling method is used to select junior exploration companies to participate in a self-administered survey to identify the various accounting treatments of exploration and evaluation expenditure by junior exploration companies. The findings of this study show that, despite the time and resources expended by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) in the extractive activities project, nothing has changed in the last 40 years. Progress in the standardisation of accounting for exploration and evaluation expenditure can be made if the exemptions included in IFRS 6 are removed or only the successful-efforts method incorporated into IFRS 6.
Evaluating illiquidity and systemic contagion in South African banks
Authors: Visser Dirk , Van Vuuren Gary
Published: June 2019

A stress-testing model to evaluate liquidity and systemic risk in banks of developed and emerging economies has been assembled and tested. The Liquidity Stress Tester model (LST) was applied to Dutch and UK markets during crisis and non-crisis periods in previous research – here it is applied to South African banks. The flexibility and adaptability of the LST allows different banking systems and reactions of system participants to be evaluated comprehensively. Feedback effects arising from bank reactions to severely stressed haircuts and increases in systemic risk caused by reputation degradation are considered, as is the effect of enhanced contagion from other banks.
The determinants of Indian FDI in Africa: A structural equation approach
Authors: Bezuidenhout Henri , Cloete Susanna , Claassen Carike
Published: June 2019

Much has been written in economic circles about the rising investment of the BRICS countries in Africa, yet there is scant literature on the determinants of FDI from these countries to Africa, and no studies have reported on that from India. In 2012, Indian FDI surpassed that of China, making India the largest developing country that is a direct investor in Africa. This study focuses on understanding the determinants of Indian FDI in Africa using structural equation modelling (SEM), which includes factor analysis and regression estimations. The specific determinants that influence the number of Indian FDI deals in Africa include government effectiveness, control of corruption, crude oil price, school enrolment and exports. The value of the investments is influenced by government effectiveness and rule of law. We conclude that India’s increasing involvement in Africa is driven by trade and resources. It is, however, differentiated through a strong focus on good governance.
A critical evaluation of the proposed treatment of special cost advantages in excessive prices law
Authors: Sylvester Andrew
Published: June 2019

Firms have a special cost advantage when they receive a discount or subsidy without assuming any risk or without being innovative. It is thus a received benefit, rather than an earned benefit, which results in a cost below the normal competitive level. The treatment of these special cost advantages has been a complicating factor when the firm in question is a dominant firm accused of charging an excessive price. The relevant benchmark against which to assess the price charged by the firm is the notional competitive market price, which in turn is linked to the cost of production under competitive conditions. This led to the Competition Appeal Court recommending that special cost advantages should be excluded from the cost build-up of the dominant firm when assessing excessive prices allegations. This would artificially inflate the dominant firm’s costs and reduce the likelihood of a finding against the firm. This recommendation by the CAC has a number of theoretical and practical problems, and it remains unclear how special cost advantages should be treated in South African competition law cases.
Editorial
Authors: Els Gideon
Published: June 2019

No abstract available.
Incentives for the manufacturing sector: what South Africa can learn from Malaysia and Singapore
Authors: Wentzel Lenatha , De Hart Kerry
Published: June 2019

The expansion of the manufacturing sector is one of the South African government’s focus areas for economic growth and employment creation. The research on which this article is based identified additional incentives, applicable to the manufacturing sector, which the South African government could introduce to encourage investors to choose the South African manufacturing sector as a desired investment destination. The incentives provided to manufacturing companies by the governments of Malaysia and Singapore and those provided by the South African government are compared in order to examine the similarities and differences between these incentives. In the light of these findings, recommendations are made for additional incentives in South Africa to promote investment in South African manufacturing companies and reduce some of the barriers that prevent local and foreign investment in the country.
An evaluation of the income tax treatment of client loyalty programme transactions by South African suppliers
Authors: Brink Sophia
Published: June 2019

The popularity of client loyalty programmes has increased drastically over the past few years, with more than 100 suppliers in South Africa currently making use of them. Despite the fact that client loyalty programmes have been prevalent in South Africa since the 1980s, the South African Revenue Service has issued no specific guidance on the income tax treatment of client loyalty programme transactions. The main objective of the research was to determine whether South African client loyalty programme suppliers treat client loyalty programme transactions correctly for income tax purposes. In order to meet this objective, available local and international literature were analysed to determine the proposed income tax treatment of a client loyalty programme transaction expenditure incurred by supplier for purposes of the client loyalty programme. The proposed correct income tax treatment was compared with a survey circulated to a population of client loyalty programme suppliers in South Africa. The comparison indicated that in practice the Income Tax Act No. 58 of 1962 is treated differently from the proposed treatment. This incorrect tax treatment could result in possible financial loss to the client loyalty programme supplier as taxpayer.
Predicting financial distress using financial and non-financial variables
Authors: Van Der Colff Francois , Vermaak Frans
Published: June 2019

This study attempts to clarify whether using a hybrid model based on non-financial variables and financial variables is able to provide a more accurate company financial distress prediction model than using a model based on financial variables only. The relationship between the model test results and the De la Rey K-Score for the subject companies is tested, employing Cramer’s V statistical test. A movement towards a Cramer’s V value of one indicates a strengthening relationship, and a movement towards zero is an indication of a weakening relationship. Against this background, further empirical research is proposed to prove that a model combining financial variables with true non-financial variables provides a more accurate company distress prediction than a financial variable-only model. The limited evidence of a strengthening relationship found is insufficient to establish the superiority of the proposed model beyond reasonable doubt.
An analysis of the quality of life of migrants in Gauteng, a province of South Africa
Authors: Greyling Talita
Published: June 2019

Gauteng, the economic centre of South Africa, attracts many migrants from across the African continent and other regions in South Africa: almost 44% of the total population are migrants. In this study, a composite index is constructed and the quality of life of cross-border, internal migrants and the native population of Gauteng is compared. This study uses the method of Nicoletti et al. (2009) to construct the composite index, and adapts it to be suitable for the analysis of categorical data. Furthermore, this study compares the means of the quality of life scores of the different groups using ANOVA. The results of the study show that although there are statistically significant differences between the mean quality of life scores of the groups, the effect size approaches zero. This suggests that migrants and non-migrants experience almost equal levels of quality of life in Gauteng. This result contradicts findings in existing literature that measures well-being.
Exploring the elements of strategic innovation drivers in South African banks
Authors: Maree Lelani , McKenzie Kieran D.
Published: June 2019

Understanding the key elements of the drivers of strategic innovation remains elusive. Limited research has been conducted on the drivers, namely strategy processes, people, culture, and resources, in a South African context. In this study, semi-structured interviews were conducted with innovation specialists of five participating banks to explore the key elements that constitute the drivers of strategic innovation in South African banks. The findings indicate that the elements of the drivers of strategic innovation, as outlined in the literature, were evident in the participating banks and that the exploration of these elements provides a good starting point for South African financial service companies to build innovation capacity.
Who are the big spenders at a motorcycle event?
Authors: Kruger Martinette , Viljoen Armand , Saayman Melville
Published: June 2019

Africa Bike Week, considered South Africa’s premier biking event, attracts large numbers of bikers, especially Harley-Davidson bikers, and bike enthusiasts from across the country. This study investigated these visitors and their spending behaviour. As background to the study, we provide a broad survey of the literature on socio-demographic and behavioural determinants of spending. Motorcycle tourism has received international research attention, especially in the US, but to date has been neglected in South Africa. Our study helps to fill this gap, particularly as regards biker and spectator characteristics. We found that more behavioural than socio-demographic variables influenced spending at this event. Visitors’ motorcycle behaviour and group composition had a significant effect on higher spending. The analysis identified three new determinants of spending: the travel motives lifestyle, event attractiveness and event novelty. Event organisers can use this information to increase spending and enhance the economic impact of motorcycle tourism in South Africa.
Picking the Right Tool for the Job: A Reliability Study of 4 Assessment Tools for Central Venous Catheter Insertion
Authors: Lord Jason A. , Zuege Danny J. , Mackay Maria Palacios , Ordons Amanda Roze des , Lockyer Jocelyn
Published: June 2019

Background

Determining procedural competence requires psychometrically sound assessment tools. A variety of instruments are available to determine procedural performance for central venous catheter (CVC) insertion, but it is not clear which ones should be used in the context of competency-based medical education.

Objective

We compared several commonly used instruments to determine which should be preferentially used to assess competence in CVC insertion.

Methods

Junior residents completing their first intensive care unit rotation between July 31, 2006, and March 9, 2007, were video-recorded performing CVC insertion on task trainer mannequins. Between June 1, 2016, and September 30, 2016, 3 experienced raters judged procedural competence on the historical video recordings of resident performance using 4 separate tools, including an itemized checklist, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS), a critical error assessment tool, and the Ottawa Surgical Competency Operating Room Evaluation (O-SCORE). Generalizability theory (G-theory) was used to compare the performance characteristics among the tools. A decision study predicted the optimal testing environment using the tools.

Results

At the time of the original recording, 127 residents rotated through intensive care units at the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Seventy-seven of them (61%) met inclusion criteria, and 55 of those residents (71%) agreed to participate. Results from the generalizability study (G-study) demonstrated that scores from O-SCORE and OSATS were the most dependable. Dependability could be maintained for O-SCORE and OSATS with 2 raters.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that global rating scales, such as the OSATS or the O-SCORE tools, should be preferentially utilized for assessment of competence in CVC insertion.
Successional patterns of (trace) metals and microorganisms in the Rainbow hydrothermal vent plume at the Mid-Atlantic Ridge
Authors: Haalboom Sabine , Price David M. , Mienis Furu , van Bleijswijk Judith D. L. , de Stigter Henko C. , Witte Harry J. , Reichart Gert-Jan , Duineveld Gerard C. A.
Published: June 2019

Abstract. Hydrothermal vent fields found at mid-ocean ridges emit hydrothermal fluids which disperse as neutrally buoyant plumes. From these fluids seafloor massive sulfides (SMS) deposits are formed which are being explored as possible new mining sites for (trace) metals and rare earth elements (REE). It has been suggested that during mining activities large amounts of suspended matter will appear in the water column due to excavation processes, and due to discharge of mining waste from the surface vessel. Understanding how natural hydrothermal plumes evolve as they spread away from their source and how they affect their surrounding environment may provide some analogies for the behaviour of the dilute distal part of chemically enriched mining plumes. This study on the extensive Rainbow hydrothermal plume, observed up to 25 km downstream from the vent site, enabled us to investigate how microbial communities change in the presence of a natural plume. The (trace) metal and REE content of suspended particulate matter (SPM) was determined using HR-ICP mass spectrometry and the microbial communities of the neutrally buoyant plume, above plume-, below plume-, and near-bottom water and sediment were characterised by using 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing methods. Both vertically in the water column and horizontally along the neutrally buoyant plume, geochemical and biological changes were evident as the neutrally buoyant plume stood out by its enrichments in (trace) metals and REEs, of which the concentrations changed as the plume aged. This was also reflected in the background pelagic system as Epsilonproteobacteria started to dominate and the biodiversity appeared to reduce with distance away from the Rainbow hydrothermal vent field. The Rainbow hydrothermal plume provides a geochemically enriched natural environment, which is a heterogeneous, dynamic habitat that is conducive to ecological changes in a short time span.
The BernClim plant phenological data set from the Canton of Bern (Switzerland) 1970–2018
Authors: Rutishauser This , Jeanneret Francois , Brügger Robert , Brugnara Yuri , Röthlisberger Christian , Bernasconi August , Bangerter Peter , Portenier Céline , Villiger Leonie , Lehmann Daria , Meyer Lukas , Messerli Bruno , Brönnimann Stefan
Published: June 2019

Abstract. In 1970, the Institute of Geography of the University of Berne initiated the phenological observation network BernClim. Seasonality information from plants, fog and snow originally served for applications in urban and regional planning, agricultural and touristic suitability and are now a valuable data set for climate change impacts studies. Covering the growing season volunteer observers record the dates of key development stages of hazel (Coryllus avellana), dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), apple tree (Pyrus malus) and beech (Fagus sylvatica). All observations consist of detailed site information including location, altitude, exposition and inclination that make BernClim unique in detail-richness on decadal time-scales. Quality control (QC) by experts and statistical analyses of the data has been performed to flag impossible dates, dates outside the biologically plausible range, repeated dates in the same year, stretches of consecutive identical dates, and statistically inconsistent dates (outliers in time or in space). Here, we report BernClim data of 7414 plant phenological observations from 1970 to 2018 from 1304 sites at 110 stations, the QC procedure and selected applications (Rutishauser et al., 2019, https://doi.org/10.1594/PANGAEA.900103). The QC points to a very good internal consistency (only 0.2 % were flagged as internally inconsistent) and likely a high quality of the data. BernClim data indicate a trend towards an extended growing season. They also well track the regime shift in the late 1980s.
Revisiting extreme precipitation amounts over southern South America and implications for the Patagonian Icefields
Authors: Sauter Tobias
Published: June 2019

Abstract. Patagonia is thought to be one of the wettest regions on Earth, although available regional precipitation estimates vary considerably. This uncertainty complicates understanding and quantifying the observed environmental changes, such as glacier recession, biodiversity decline in fjord ecosystems and enhanced net primary production. The observed dramatic volume loss of the Patagonian Icefields, for example, contradicts the reported positive surface mass balances. Here I use simple physical arguments to test the plausibility of the current precipitation estimates and its impact on the Patagonian Icefields. The results show that environmental conditions required to sustain a mean precipitation amount exceeding 6.09 ± 0.64 m yr−1 are untenable according to the regional moisture flux. The revised precipitation values imply a significant reduction in surface mass balance of the Patagonian Icefields compared to previously reported values. This yields a new perspective on the response of Patagonia's glaciers to climate change and their sea-level contribution and might also help reduce uncertainties in the change of other precipitation-driven environmental phenomena.
Dynamics of hydrological model parameters: calibration and
reliability
Authors: Lan Tian , Lin Kairong , Tan Xuezhi , Xu Chong-Yu , Chen Xiaohong
Published: June 2019

Abstract. It has been demonstrated that the dynamics of hydrological model parameters based on dynamic catchment behavior significantly improves the accuracy and robustness of conventional models. However, the calibration for the dynamization of parameter set involves critical components of hydrological models, including parameters, objective functions, state variables, and fluxes, which usually are ignored. Hence, it is essential to design a reliable calibration scheme regarding these components. In this study, we compared and evaluate five calibration schemes with respect to multi-metric evaluation, dynamized parameter values, fluxes, and state variables. Furthermore, a simple and effective tool was designed to assess the reliability of the dynamized parameter set. The tool evaluates the convergence processes for global optimization algorithms using violin plots (ECP-VP), effectively describes the convergence behaviour in individual parameter spaces. The different types of violin plots can well match to all possible properties of fitness landscapes. The results showed that the reasons for poor model performance included time-invariant parameters oversimplifying the dynamic response modes of the model, the high-dimensionality disaster of parameters, the abrupt shifts of the parameter set, and the complicated correlations among parameters. The proposed calibration scheme overcome these issues, characterized the dynamic behaviour of catchments, and improved the model performance. Additionally, the designed ECP-VP tool effectively assessed the reliability of the dynamic parameter set, providing an indication on recognizing the dominant response modes of hydrological models in different sub-periods or catchments with the distinguishing catchment characteristics.
Nonlinear deformation and run-up of single tsunami waves of positive polarity: numerical simulations and analytical predictions
Authors: Abdalazeez Ahmed A. , Didenkulova Ira , Dutykh Denys
Published: June 2019

Abstract. The estimate of individual wave run-up is especially important for tsunami warning and risk assessment as it allows to evaluate the inundation area. Here as a model of tsunami we use the long single wave of positive polarity. The period of such wave is rather long which makes it different from the famous Korteweg–de Vries soliton. This wave is nonlinearly deformed during its propagation in the ocean which results in a steep wave front formation. Situations, when waves approach the coast with a steep front are often observed during large tsunamis, e.g. 2004 Indian Ocean and 2011 Tohoku tsunamis. Here we study the nonlinear deformation and run-up of long single waves of positive polarity in the conjoined water basin, which consists of the constant depth section and a plane beach. The work is performed numerically and analytically in the framework of the nonlinear shallow water theory. Analytically, wave propagation along the constant depth section and its run-up on a beach are considered independently without taking into account wave reflection from the toe of the bottom slope. The propagation along the bottom of constant depth is described by Riemann wave, while the wave run-up on a plane beach is calculated using rigorous analytical solutions of the nonlinear shallow water theory following the Carrier–Greenspan approach. Numerically, we use the finite volume method with the second order UNO2 reconstruction in space and the third order Runge–Kutta scheme with locally adaptive time steps. During wave propagation along the constant depth section, the wave becomes asymmetric with a steep wave front. Shown, that the maximum run-up height depends on the front steepness of the incoming wave approaching the toe of the bottom slope. The corresponding formula for maximum run-up height which takes into account the wave front steepness is proposed.
Identifying and quantifying geogenic organic carbon in soils – the case of graphite
Authors: Zethof Jeroen H. T. , Leue Martin , Vogel Cordula , Stoner Shane W. , Kalbitz Karsten
Published: June 2019

Abstract. A widely overlooked source of carbon (C) in the soil environment is organic carbon (OC) of geogenic origin, e.g. graphite, occurring mostly in metamorphic rocks. Appropriate methods are not available to quantity graphite and to differentiate it from other organic and inorganic C sources in soils. This methodological shortcoming also complicates studies on OC in soils formed on graphite-containing bedrock, because of the unknown contribution of a very different soil OC source. In this study, we examined Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and the smart combustion methods for their ability of identifying and quantifying graphitic C in soils. For this purpose, several artificial soil samples with graphite, CaCO3 and plant litter as usual C components were created. A graphitic standard was mixed with pure quartz and a natural soil for calibration and validation of the methods over a graphitic C range of 0.1 to 4 %. Furthermore, rock and soil material from both a graphite bearing schist and a schist without natural graphite were used for method validation. FTIR: As specific signal intensities of distinct graphite absorption bands were missing, calibration could only be performed on general effects of graphite contents on the energy transmitted through the samples. The use of samples from different mineral origin yielded significant matrix effects and hampered the prediction of geogenic graphite contents in soils. TGA: Thermogravimetric analysis, based on changes in mass loss due to differences in thermal stabilities, are suggested as a useful method for graphite identification, although (calcium) carbonate and graphitic C have a similar thermal stability. However, the quantitative estimation of the graphite contents was challenging as dehydroxylation (mass loss) of a wide range of soil minerals occur in a similar temperature range. Smart combustion: The method is based on measuring the release of C during a combustion program, quantified by a non-dispersive infrared detector (NDIR) being part of a commercial elemental analyser, whereby carbonates and graphitic C could be separated by switching between oxic and anoxic conditions during thermal decomposition. Samples were heated to 400 °C under oxygen rich conditions, after which further heating was done under anoxic conditions till 900 °C. The residual oxidizable carbon (ROC), hypothesized to be graphitic C, was measured by switching back to oxygenic conditions at 900 °C. Test samples showed promising results for quantifying graphitic C in soils. For the purpose of quantifying graphitic C content in soil samples, smart combustion was the most promising method of those who have been examined in this study. However, caution should be taken with carbonate rich soils as increasing amounts of carbonate resulted in an underestimation of graphitic C content.
Positive Youth Development for Youth With Disabilities in a Therapeutic Camp Setting
Authors: Wozencroft Angela J. , Scott Jason L. , Waller Steven N. , Parsons Macie D.
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this article is to describe the value of the outdoor camp experiences among youth with disabilities participating in an outdoor therapeutic camp. The focus of the analysis is to understand the dimensions of positive youth development amongst youth campers with disabilities. A total of 12 campers were interviewed, 6 male and 6 female. Emerging themes included: (a) social, (b) character building, and (c) self-confidence and provide linkages to positive youth development domains. Findings identified the benefits that youth receive from attending an outdoor therapeutic recreation camp program such as opportunities to interact with old and new friends, feeling like a member for the camp family, feeling accepted and able to be themselves. Other benefits included becoming more independent, autonomous, and more self-confident.
Barriers and Supports to College Aspiration Among Latinx High School Students
Authors: Manzano-Sanchez Harold , Matarrita-Cascante David , Outley Corliss
Published: June 2019

This study used a qualitative methodology to identify and describe barriers that Latinx high school students face in their college aspirations and the supports they recognize as pivotal to achieving their goal of attending college. In order to understand barriers and supports for college attendance, 23 Latinx high school students in Southern California participated in 4 focus groups. Students were asked about barriers that most affect the students’ college aspirations and varying supports needed to assist in their goal to go to college. The most common barriers reported by them were: lack of financial resources, family responsibilities, lack of teachers’ support, peer pressure, and systematic discrimination. The most valuable resources mentioned were: support from their parents, siblings, relatives and teachers. Additionally, support from Latino extended families were vital as they provided encouragement, advice, economic support, and a sense of pride concerning students’ achievements. The implications of these findings for social cognitive career theory, practice, policy, and future research are discussed in the paper.
Cultural Immersion Camps and Development of Ethnic Identity in Asian American Youth
Authors: Wu Yi-Ju , Outley Corliss , Matarrita-Cascante David
Published: June 2019

The purpose of this study was to explore camp outcomes specialized in ethnic identity among Asian American youth after they participated in a residential cultural immersion camp. In this study, the cultural immersion camp is viewed as a mediating factor that channels other influences in such a way as to guide Asian American youth to commit more expressly and more fully to their perception of ethnic identity. The results obtained from 3 cultural immersion camps located in the Western United States reveals that cultural immersion camp experiences significantly increase perceived levels of ethnic identity among Asian American youth. Implications of cultural immersion camp on the development of Asian American youth are discussed.
Christian Faith in the Immigration and Acculturation Experiences of Filipino American Youth
Authors: Gabriel M. Gayle
Published: June 2019

The Filipino immigration experience began in the Philippines via American-modeled schools and Spanish-enforced Christian Catholicism. However, that may not be the case for Filipino youth. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of Christian faith in the immigration and acculturation of Filipino American youth. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 5 Filipino American emerging adults between the ages of 18 and 30 years old. Interview data went through 3 levels of coding and themes; several themes were developed. Results show that Christian faith was a powerful factor in acculturation experiences for Filipino American youth. The modeling of faith was pivotal in helping them navigate through difficult childhood experiences and in some cases mental health problems. Modeling of faith also largely determined participants’ own commitment to religious practices, such as attending daily mass or becoming part of a church organization. At a community level, Christian faith helped participants to establish community ties, which helped ease their transition into mainstream American culture. Based on the results of this study, Christian faith is an important coping factor for Filipino American youth. Christian faith allowed participants to feel a greater sense of connection to each other and to make connections with others in the United States. Christian faith shaped participants’ outlook on their lives and their day-to-day activities.
Strategies for Gaining Access to Deliver Sport Programs with Highly Vulnerable Youth
Authors: Jacobs Jenn M. , Wahl-Alexander Zachary , Mack Timothy
Published: June 2019

Sport programs have been widely studied for their efficacy in helping youth develop important social, psychological, and physical skills. Extensive research has explored the challenges related to design, implementation, and evaluation of sport programs with a developmental focus. However, when designing sport programs specifically tailored for youth from vulnerable backgrounds, the challenges become multiplied, particularly when accounting for barriers that exist before the program starts. The following article describes best practices for gaining access to non-traditional, hard-to-access environments, such as foster care systems, juvenile detention centers, youth residential mental health facilities, and programs situated in high-risk communities. Recommendations are provided for the initial phase of sport program development for vulnerable populations, including protecting youth, choosing appropriate sport content, and addressing barriers in the research process. Generally, these best practices are applicable for the development of any youth program. However, this article provides context-specific guidance and precautions that should be considered to protect and foster the well-being and welfare of youth from highly vulnerable populations.
Frontiers in Theory-Predicated Research in Youth Development: A Commentary
Authors: Lerner Richard M.
Published: June 2019

The field of youth development sits at the frontier of new opportunities for research and practice. These opportunities are enabled by innovations in theory and in theory-inspired research methods. Framed by relational developmental systems metatheory, dynamic systems models of youth development emphasize that every young person has the potential to change positively by aligning specific individual strengths and contextual resources that, together, can optimize the life paths of a young person. The methods linked to these theoretical models combine to help identify the specific links between an individual and his or her context that may maximize thriving across the adolescent decade. The evidence derived from theory-predicated use of these methods may be used to create innovations in youth development programs and policies that promote lives of personal thriving and social contribution among the diverse young people of our world.
Derechos políticos de las mujeres: una incipiente acción afirmativa en Costa Rica
Authors: Morales Bejarano Siany
Published: June 2019

Este artículo analiza la discusión política y periodística que suscitó una moción presentada en la Asamblea Legislativa de Costa Rica, en 1954, que pretendía que se dispusiera por Ley, un puesto de cinco posibles, para una mujer en la junta directiva de una institución autónoma. Aunque para entonces, la Constitución Política amparaba el derecho de las costarricenses de ocupar cargos públicos, en el plenario legislativo salieron a la luz argumentos estereotipados que impidieron que esa propuesta se concretara. Se recurrió al análisis crítico del discurso como principal herramienta metodológica. Los ejemplares de Diario de Costa Rica y La República constituyen la fuente primaria del presente estudio, con su elección se buscó obtener una perspectiva equilibrada de los eventos debido a que la polarización política de la época, se trasladó a la prensa. El corpus lo conforman noticias, crónicas y entrevistas efectuadas a diputadas y diputados. También se analizaron las actas de las sesiones de la Asamblea Legislativa. En el curso de la investigación se identificó la creencia de que la aprobación de la ciudadanía en la Constitución Política (1949) garantizaría el acceso de las mujeres, de manera inmediata y sin restricciones, a cargos de alta responsabilidad. Este argumento obstaculizó por décadas el acceso efectivo de mujeres a puestos de decisión política. El artículo denomina la moción presentada por el diputado Echandi Jiménez como “una incipiente acción afirmativa”, debido a que constituye un precedente de lo que se conocerían como acciones de discriminación positiva a finales del siglo XX.
Entre estudios, oficinas y redacciones: una aproximación al empleo femenino en Radio Nacional de España durante el franquismo desarrollista (1960-1975)”.
Authors: Pérez Martínez José Emilio
Published: June 2019

La radio fue el medio de comunicación hegemónico durante gran parte de la dictadura franquista y RNE uno de sus máximos exponentes. En estas páginas nos acercaremos a las mujeres que trabajaron en ella durante los años del desarrollismo y exploraremos cómo se estructuraba su trabajo, en qué departamentos desarrollaban su labor, cuáles eran sus salarios y qué perfiles tenían estas trabajadoras, para conocer mejor este colectivo.
La investigación histórica sobre comunicación alternativa como un campo en proceso de conformación. El caso de Chile
Authors: Sáez Chiara , Iturriaga Jorge
Published: June 2019

La caracterización de la investigación histórica sobre comunicación alternativa en Chile conduce a afirmar que este constituye aún un campo reciente, fragmentario y mediocéntrico. La revisión de las tesis de pregrado y posgrado de las tres principales universidades del país publicadas entre 1990 y 2016, permite concluir que estas debilidades persisten, pero también hay unas condiciones propicias para poder avanzar en la consolidación del campo, en la medida que exista una mayor investigación interdisciplinaria que incluya artes, humanidades, ciencias sociales y comunicación.
¿Se buscan cuidadores? Estrategias de contratación de hombres en trabajos remunerados de cuidados a personas adultas
Authors: Bodoque-Puerta Yolanda , Roca-Escoda Mireia
Published: June 2019

En este artículo presentaremos algunos resultados de una investigación sobre la participación de los hombres en el cuidado remunerado de personas adultas en situación de dependencia en Cataluña. En los últimos años el incremento de las necesidades de cuidados de larga duración ha dado lugar a un creciente proceso de institucionalización y de reconocimiento de estos trabajos. Se han promovido diversos servicios para hacer frente a las necesidades de cuidado prestados principalmente por organizaciones sociales y mercantiles, pero la crisis económica y las políticas de austeridad no han favorecido la redistribución del cuidado, recortando el gasto público y dando continuidad al cuidado familiar cuyos rasgos se proyectan en el trabajo de cuidados profesionalizado. Al mismo tiempo, la situación de desempleo a raíz de la crisis económica, ha supuesto una mayor presencia de hombres en estos trabajos, aunque todavía son una minoría. Analizamos las estrategias que guían a las organizaciones para reclutar hombres y en qué medida esta situación podría resultar una táctica de las políticas sociales para alterar, o no, la estructura de género presente en este tipo de actividades. Nuestra estrategia metodológica se basa en el análisis cualitativo de las entrevistas realizadas a los gestores del cuidado y de las observaciones en diferentes servicios públicos y privados.