bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EFFECT OF PRIVATIZATION ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF WATER UTILITIES IN KENYA: A CASE OF WATER COMPANIES UNDER COAST WATER SERVICE BOARD.
Authors: Jayne Nguthu
Published: September 2020

Purpose: This study therefore sought to evaluate the effects of privatization on financial performance of water utilities in line with water sector reforms objectives aimed at improving performance in the sector in Kenya in order to fulfill the global and national goals. The target population of the study was all seven water utilities registered as public limited companies commonly referred to as water service providers (WSPs) that operate under Coast Water Service Board (CWSB) in coast region. Methodology:The study used a census approach hence, included the whole population. Secondary data was used in the study for analysis using the Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) to generate descriptive statistics, trend analysis and inferential statistics.Results: Descriptive results indicate that private sector management is an efficient means of privatization which some water companies in Coast County adopt. Delegated management a method of privatization is most used by most Water Service companies as it improves efficiency in operations, productivity and service delivery. Leasing contracts are considered expensive means of privatization; however, it is equally a performance efficient means of privatization. Corporatization on the other hand promotes efficiency and service delivery.  Regression results show a positive and significant relationship between private sector participation, delegated management, leasing contracts and corporatization. ANOVA statistics indicate that the overall model was significant. Pearsons’ bivariate correlations show that all the variables had strong and positive correlation, private sector participation (0.893), delegated management (0.151), leasing contracts (0.441)and corporatization (0.536)respectively.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: These results imply that privatization positively affects the overall performance of a company. Through privatization companies are able to positively affect their service delivery, production levels, profitability and increase investment through stock trading.
EFFECT OF ECONOMY PRICING STRATEGY ON THE PROFITABILITY OF INSURANCE FIRMS IN KENYA.
Authors: Mungure Sheila
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The objectives of the study were to analyze effect of an IPO on the financial performance of listed companies in the Nairobi securities exchangeMethodology:The study will adopt an events study. The target of this study is companies that have issued IPOs and are listed in the Nairobi Securities Exchange.The sample will consist of companies that issued IPOs between 1996 and 2011.Our sample size is 13 listed companies in the NSE (Appendix II).The study will make use of secondary data.Market model will be used in coming up with Expected/Normal Return (R), Abnormal Return (AR), the Cumulative Abnormal Return (CAR) and then lastly, test for the significance of the study.Results:It was also possible to conclude that there was a positive but insignificant relationship between mean market return and PBT.It was psosoble to conlude that the mean abnormal retruns after the IPO were higher than before IPOIt was possible to conclude that going public allows the firm to enhance its bargaining power with bankers and financial creditors, and consequently reduces the firm’s cost of credit. It is also possible to conclude that selling shares to the public enhances a firm’s financial flexibility by generating additional sources of capital to finance growth and expansion and these is reflected by the high share prices. The study also concludes that increase in investor recognition and shareholder base due to an IPO lowers the firm’s cost of equity; enhances stock liquidity which is valuable for managerial incentive schemes, which inturn turn increases firm value.  .Policy recommendation: The study recommends that the current efforts of listing small firms/SMEs should be fast tracked   so as to facilitate the listing of small firms. It was recommended that the listed companies to go public as this enhances a firm’s financial flexibility by generating additional sources of capital to finance growth and expansion. This is reflected in their share prices.The study recommends that each county should have security exchange so that the private firms in the county can be listed. It was recommended that CMA should encourage firms to list as doing so would increases investor recognition and shareholder base which would lowers the firm’s cost of equity and improves frims value
EFFECT OF PENETRATION PRICING STRATEGY ON THE PROFITABILITY OF INSURANCE FIRMS IN KENYA.
Authors: Nyaga Perminus Kariuki , Muema Mr. Wilson
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The objectives of the study were to establish the To determine the effect of penetration pricing strategy on the profitability of insurance firms in Kenya.Methodology:The descriptive research design was preferred to other research designs because it reports the status of study variables. The population of study was the 45 insurance companies operating in Kenya as at 31st December 2012. Data was drawn from a period of five (5) years that is 2008-2012. The sample of this study was 10% of the sales workforce which comprised of 900 employees from the 45 insurance companies. The sample was generated by purposively sampling two employees from each insurance company.The researcher collected primary data with the help of a questionnaire. The primary data obtained from the questionnaires was summarized and analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistical techniques.Results:Regression and correlation results indicated that there was a statistically significant and positive relationship between penetration pricing strategies and profitability. These results implied that penetration pricing has a positive effect on the profitability of insurance companies.Policy recommendation: The study recommends that insurance companies put in place measures assess the most effective pricing strategy to reduce product costs and thus increase profitability whenever such a strategy is used.
DETERMINANTS OF EFFECTIVE DEBT COLLECTION IN COMMERCIAL BANKS IN KENYA
Authors: Kitonga Peter
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the determinants of effective debt collection practices in Kenyan commercial banks.Methodology:The research was carried out through descriptive survey design.  The total population of the study was 1118credit managers/supervisors or branch managersof the 37 commercial banks. A sample size of 118 respondents was selected through random sampling technique, which represents a 10% of the population. The study used both secondary and primary data specifically the study used a questionnaire as the preferred data collection tool. The questionnaire had close ended questions only. Secondary data on the level of Nonperforming loans/Gross loans was also collected. This study used the quantitative method of data analysis. Quantitative methods of data analysis included inferential and descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and measures of tendency mainly mean. Inferential statistics include correlation and regression analysis. The tool for data analysis was Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 program. The results were presented using tables and pie charts to give a clear picture of the research findings.Results:Results indicated that staff competence was highly emphasized in the banks. Results also revealed that the banks had invested in management information systems which were easy to use and compatible with other bank systems in place. Correlation results led to conclusion that that the relationship between staff competency and non-performing loans is negative and significant. It was concluded that the bank also had invested heavily intechnological resources to ensure smooth work flow of employees. Correlation results led to the conclusion that the relationship between financial resources and non-performing loans is negative and significant. The study further concludes that that the relationship between information technology management and non-performing loans is negative and significant.  The findings imply that information technology has significant negative effect on non-performing loans.Policy recommendation:The study also recommends that investment in Information technology be emphasized in the banks as it has an effect on the overall achievement of competitive advantage. Therefore the organization is urged to invest in management information systems which are easy to use and which facilitate minimization of administration and operational costs.
DETERMINANTS OF STAFF COMPETENCY ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DEBT COLLECTION IN COMMERCIAL BANKS
Authors: Kitonga Peter
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The study aimed to examine the determinants of determinants of staff competency on the effectiveness of debt collection    in commercial banks.Methodology:The research was carried out through descriptive survey design.  The total population of the study was 1118credit managers/supervisors or branch managersof the 37 commercial banks. A sample size of 118 respondents was selected through random sampling technique, which represents a 10% of the population. The study used both secondary and primary data specifically the study used a questionnaire as the preferred data collection tool. The questionnaire had close ended questions only. Secondary data on the level of Nonperforming loans/Gross loans was also collected. This study used the quantitative method of data analysis. Quantitative methods of data analysis included inferential and descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and measures of tendency mainly mean. Inferential statistics include correlation and regression analysis. The tool for data analysis was Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 program. The results were presented using tables and pie charts to give a clear picture of the research findings.Results: It was possible to conclude that staff competence was highly emphasized in the banks. Results led to a conclusion that all employees received induction training and all the learning was incorporated on the job training. Results revealed that on the job training was important and effective in improving employee performance; training had improved the employees’ knowledge gap about the bank, which helped them to adjust comfortably to the work environment. It was also possible to conclude that the bank encouraged staff exchange programs with other employees who improve work knowledge and productivity and the bank offers short training in form of seminars to improve staff competency.Correlation results led to conclusion that that the relationship between staff competency and non-performing loans is negative and significant. The findings imply that staff competency has a significant effect on non-performing loans in the banks.Policy recommendation:it is recommended that staff competence be emphasized in the banks as it has an effect on the overall achievement of effective debt collection practices. Therefore the management is urged to encourage sharingofpotentially sensitive information on costs, quality, and productivity on financial performance with other employees.
EFFECT OF FINANCIAL RESOURCES ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF DEBT COLLECTION IN COMMERCIAL BANKS
Authors: Kitonga Peter
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The study aimed to examine the effect of financial resources on the effectiveness of debt collection in commercial banks.Methodology: The research was carried out through descriptive survey design.  The total population of the study was 1118credit managers/supervisors or branch managersof the 37 commercial banks. A sample size of 118 respondents was selected through random sampling technique, which represents a 10% of the population. The study used both secondary and primary data specifically the study used a questionnaire as the preferred data collection tool. The questionnaire had close ended questions only. Secondary data on the level of Nonperforming loans/Gross loans was also collected. This study used the quantitative method of data analysis. Quantitative methods of data analysis included inferential and descriptive statistics. Descriptive statistics included frequencies and measures of tendency mainly mean. Inferential statistics include correlation and regression analysis. The tool for data analysis was Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 program. The results were presented using tables and pie charts to give a clear picture of the research findings.Results:Correlation results led to the conclusion that the relationship between financial resources and non-performing loans is negative and significant. This implies that an increase in the financial resources led to a decrease in non-performing loans. This further implies that financial resources influenced or affected non-performing loans negatively.Policy recommendation:it is recommended that staff competence be emphasized in the banks as it has an effect on the overall achievement of effective debt collection practices. Therefore the management is urged to encourage sharingofpotentially sensitive information on costs, quality, and productivity on financial performance with other employees.
The Adoption and Implementation of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards: The challenges faced by the United Nation in producing UN-IPSAS compliant financial reports in Kenya.
Authors: Whitefield Aleg A. , Savvas Panayiotis
Published: September 2020

Purpose:The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges faced by United Nations, Nairobi in adopting and implementing IPSAS. Methodology:The study used a mixed research design involving both descriptive and explanatory research designs to describe the state of affairs of the study variables as well as test the cause and effect relationships between variablesAccording to United Nations (UN) website, there are 13 United Nations agencies in Nairobi Kenya with a total of 540 accountants. The choice of accountants as a population is because they are the most knowledgeable users. The study units for this study werethe junior and senior accountants.The sampling units for the study were drawn from the 13 agencies in the UN team of Kenya.  A sample size of 20% of the population was taken as the sample size. This yielded 108 accountants. Random sampling was done. A close ended questionnaire based on a likert scale was used to collect data. Data wasanalyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Specifically, frequencies count and regression analysis results were generated using SPSS version 20.Results:The study concluded that; technological challenges, organization challenges, financial challenges and perceived usefulness challenges significantly influence the rate of IPSAS adoption by UN agencies.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy:The study recommended that practitioners in the field of financial management and IPSAS software development should address the technological challenges associated with the adoption of IPSAS accounting. In particular, technical support from trained accountants, adequate ICT infrastructure and provision of training manuals would improve IPSAs adoption.
INFLUENCE OF FINANCIAL STRUCTURE ON BANK PERFORMANCE IN COMMERCIAL BANKS IN EAC COUNTRIES
Authors: Peter Ketyenya Dr. Rutto , Mwaura Muroki F
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the Influence of financial structure on bank performance in commercial banks in EAC countries

Methodology: The study used cross country data analysis of 100 commercial banks and collected secondary data from annual published audited financial statements for the period 1997-2011

Results: The results from the balanced panel data set indicae a positive and significant relationship between financial structure and RoE.

Policy recommendation: The study recommended that the bank regulators need to encourage banks to list on their respective stock exchanges so as to increase banks share and also to enable them source for funding in the capital markets.
Effect of Earnings Ability on Financial Performance of Savings and Credit Societies in Kenya
Authors: Muturi Prof. Willy , Barus Jane J. , Kibati Dr. Patrick , Koima Dr. Joel
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to establish the effect of earnings ability on financial performance of savings and credit societies in Kenya.

Methodology: The study employed an explanatory research design. The target population was 83 registered deposit taking SACCO’s in Kenya that have been in operation for the last five years. The sample size for the study was all 83 SACCOs that have remained in existence since 2011-2015. Census methodology was used in the study.  Both primary and secondary sources of data were employed.  Multiple linear regression models were used to analyze the data using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) and STATA. A pilot study was conducted to measure the research instruments reliability and validity. Descriptive and inferential analysis was conducted to analyze the data. The data was presented using tables and graphs.

Results: Based on the findings the study concluded that earnings ability influenced the financial performance of savings and credit societies in Kenya. This can be explained by the regression results which showed that the influence was positive and also showed the magnitude by which earnings ability influenced the financial performance of savings and credit societies. The univariate regression results showed that earnings ability influenced the financial performance of savings and credit societies by 6.438units.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended for continuous review of credit policies, establishment of irrecoverable loan provision policies, development of sound staff recruitment policies and the use of appropriate financing mix. Further, the Government should review legal framework to ensure that institutional capital is used to grow SACCO’s’ wealth.
Turnaround Strategies and Their Influence on the Financial Performance of Organizations: A Case Study of Uchumi Supermarkets Ltd-Nairobi County Branches
Authors: Mbandu Angelica
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to establish the influence of turnaround strategies on the performance of Organizations: A case study of Uchumi Supermarkets Ltd, Nairobi branches.Methodology: This study employed descriptive case study design. Uchumi supermarkets Ltd, Nairobi branches was the unit of study. This study purposively sampled 35 respondents from the 90 managers at all the management levels with equal representation. This was a 40% representation. This research was conducted through a case study to enable the researcher explore the matter in depth. Primary data was gathered by use of closed ended questionnaires, which were self-administered. A pilot study was conducted in order to establish the validity and reliability of data collection instruments. After data had been collected through questionnaires, it was prepared in readiness for analysis by editing, handling blank responses, coding, categorizing and keying into Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer software for analysis. SPSS was used to produce frequencies, descriptive and inferential statistics which were used to derive conclusions and generalizations regarding the population.Results: The study findings indicated that debt restructuring, change management, asset restructuring are positively and significantly related to performance. The results also indicated that debt restructuring explains 24.6% of performance of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited. The results also indicated that Changes in management explains 45.2% of performance of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited. The results further indicated that asset restructuring explains 21% of performance of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited. The results also indicated that staff rationalization explains 8.2% of performance of Uchumi Supermarkets Limited.Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommended that organizations aiming to turnaround and improve their financial performance should include debt restructuring, change management and asset restructuring.  . The study also recommends that Uchumi supermarkets limited should continue with the turnaround strategies like engaging human resource consultants to head hunt for key individuals for managerial positions, having structured and competitive salaries for key managerial positions and implementing performance based bonus pay programs for key staff because they lead to improved performance.
EFFECTS OF MACROECONOMIC FACTORS ON STOCK RETURNS IN NIGERIA
Authors: Ayuba James Akwe , Balago Garba Salisu , Dagwom Dang Yohanna
Published: September 2020

Purpose: This study set out to examine the effects of macroeconomic factors on stock returns for top twenty-five most capitalized quoted equity firms in Nigeria. Emerging markets have different structure and institutional characteristics from developed stock markets, and in view of the fact that investors are interested in getting more insights into the activities of blue chip companies, it is imperative to find out whether stock returns in Nigeria respond differently to effects of macroeconomic factors or not.  Hence, the study investigated the effects of inflation rate, interest rate and money supply on stock returns of selected quoted firms in Nigeria from 2007 – 2016.

Methodology: The population comprises top twenty-five most capitalized quoted equity firms, out of which twenty-one companies represent the sample of the study. The study adopted ex-post facto research design. The study used secondary data obtained from the audited accounts of the sampled firms, Central Bank of Nigeria Statistical Bulletin and the Nigerian Stock Exchange database and website. Analysis of data was carried out using panel data regression.

 Findings: The panel regression results indicate significant negative effects between inflation rate, money supply and stock returns of selected quoted companies in Nigeria, while insignificant negative effect is revealed between interest rate and stock returns in Nigeria.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study recommends among others, taking note of the systematic risks revealed by inflation rate, interest rate and money supply when structuring portfolios and diversification strategies; and intensifying capital market sensitization campaigns by the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Keywords: Inflation rate, interest rate, money supply and stock returns.
EFFECT OF RISK MANAGEMENT PRACTICESON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL STATE CORPORATIONS IN KENYA: A CASE OF JOMO KENYATTA FOUNDATION
Authors: Rop Emmy Chelangat , Rotich Dr. Gladys
Published: September 2020

Purpose: Risk if not well managed could lead to dissatisfactory performance of most organizations. Risk management should be at the central part of an organization’s operations by integrating risk management practices into Systems, processes, and culture of the entire organization. This study sought to establish the effect of Risk management practices on financial performance of Commercial state corporations in Kenya, a case of JKF.

Methodology: The study adopted a descriptive study. The total population of the study was the employees of JKF. According to 2014/2015 Kenya National Audit office report, there are 119 employees of JKF. The study used secondary data which was collected from published reports and audited financial statements for five years for periods between 2011 and 2016. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study adopted regression analysis and statistical significance was measured at the 5% level of significance. R2 was used to determine strength of the relationship of the variables under study.

Results: The study found significant relationships between financial performance of commercial state corporations and operational, financial and strategic risk management practices to an extent of 98.7%, 92.7% and 87.4% respectively. The findings indicate that there is a fairly strong positive relationship between reputational risk management practices and financial performance to an extent of 56.2%. Efficient management of operational risks leads to lower operating expense and increased profitability. Practices that lead to general reduction of liabilities would positively affect firm’s financial performance.

Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended that state corporations should comprehensively implement risk management good practices as outlined in their “MWONGOZO” guidelines. Further it was recommended that future studies should be carried out to include all state corporations based on data from a longer duration.
EFFECT OF CREDIT COLLECTION PRACTICES ON FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS IN KENYA
Authors: Cheptum Florence Jemutai
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The main objective of this study is to establish the effect of credit collection practices on the financial performance of manufacturing firms in Kenya. Manufacturing firms have been experiencing a number of challenges in their application of credit collection practices to ensure sound financial performance.

Methodology: The study adopted two research designs; descriptive and causal. The accessible population for the study was 558 registered manufacturing firms. Stratified sampling technique was used to select the sample size and a sample of 233 manufacturing firms was arrived at using Yamane’s formula. Questionnaires were the main instruments used to collect primary data. Both descriptive and inferential statistics were utilized in data analysis with the aid of SPSS. Data presentation methods used included frequency tables and percentages. Data collected were tested using, univariate test to provide an insight using both parametric (F-test) and non-parametric test (Pearson correlation coefficient). Multivariate analysis was also carried using the multiple regression analysis which indicated the level of the relationship that existed between the independent variables and the dependent variable.

Results: Findings indicate that the credit collection practices have a significant positive effect on the financial performance of the manufacturing firms (p<0.05). This can be attributed to the fact that owners of manufacturing firms have the ability to control and manage credit through their experienced and skilled credit managers. In conclusion, credit collection practices positively and significantly affected the financial performance of the firms.

Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that registered manufacturing firms operating in Kenya should adopt credit collection practices since it positively and significantly affects the financial performance. This can be achieved by setting techniques which are used to collect credit and this helps in reducing chances of credit defaults.
INTERNAL CONTROLS AND CREDIT RISK IN COMMERCIAL BANKS LISTED AT NAIROBI SECURITIES EXCHANGE, KENYA
Authors: Mwichigi Gabriel Njuguna , Atheru Gerald
Published: September 2020

Purpose: The general objective of this research was to examine the internal controls and credit risk in commercial banks listed in Nairobi Securities Exchange, Kenya.

Methodology: The cross sectional descriptive research design was used since it helps in establishing the association between constructs at a given point in time. The study conducted a census of the 11 banks trading at the Kenya securities market since the target population was accessible and easily manageable. The target respondents were the risk managers, compliance and monitoring managers, internal auditors and credit managers of all these commercial banks, all located in Nairobi. Data was collected from primary sources; the data collection tool being a questionnaire which contained questions structured in a five-point Likert scale thus ensured that all the respondents got exactly the same questions. Descriptive and inferential statistics was applied for analysis of data using the SPSS software. The findings were demonstrated using graphs and tables.

Results: All the dimensions of internal controls studied, that is, the risk assessment, control environment, control activities and information and commutation were found to have a significant influence on credit risk of the banks.

Recommendations: There is need for the management, policy makers and all banking industry players of commercial banks to institute structures that promote devotion to integrity and ethical conducts, demonstrate authority and responsibility to enhance adequacy of banking activities. The banks’ board of directors and the administration team should implement oversight responsibilities, demonstrating commitment to competence and enforcing accountability. Further, adherence to the set policies should be followed in all the financial institutions to enhance realization of banks’ objectives. Further, the study recommends that every bank in Kenya should have proper quality control structures, effective audit programs and monitoring activities. Since the CBK regulates the commercial banks, it should ensure that every bank set correct internal checks guidelines and observes their sufficiency and usefulness. The study recommends that the credit policy and other guidelines be easily accessible to all lending officers; any updates or changes to the policy be communicated immediately so as to minimize credit risk exposed to the banks.
Changes occur from mixing chemical compounds: electrovalent bonds and covalent bonds
Authors: Kaseer Aman Ishan
Published: September 2020

This article aims to distinguish compounds that have electrovalent and covalent bonds and distinguish between complex and non-complex formation reactions. This method by observing through the materials used in this experiment are NaCl, AgNO3, CHCl3, KCNS, CH3COOH, CCl4, C2H5OH, K3Fe (CN) 6, HCl, methyl orange (MO), BaCl2, K4Fe (CN) 6, CuSO4, NH4OH, and FeCl3. The results of the observations found a difference between complex and non-complex compounds. When mixed with KCNS, they can react which is indicated by a change in color, while non-complex compounds cannot react. The equation between ethanol solution and CHCl3, if each solution is added AgNO3 will produce a covalent compound, but the change is different where ethanol is added to AgNO3 to become cloudy white, while CHCl3 does not react.
VP 5 Heen en weer geslingerd tussen feiten en emoties. Een kritiek op de visie van J.J.P. de Jong
Authors: scagliola stef
Published: September 2020

PDF van artikel Stef Scagliola uit de Nieuwste Tijd, 2002, kritiek op de visie van Joop de Jong.
Mid-Pliocene Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation simulated in PlioMIP2
Authors: Zhang Zhongshi , Li Xiangyu , Guo Chuncheng , Otterå Odd Helge , Nisancioglu Kerim H. , Tan Ning , Contoux Camille , Ramstein Gilles , Feng Ran , Otto-Bliesner Bette L. , Brady Esther , Chandan Deepak , Peltier W. Richard , Baatsen Michiel L. J. , von der Heydt Anna S. , Weiffenbach Julia E. , Stepanek Christian , Lohmann Gerrit , Zhang Qiong , Li Qiang , Chandler Mark A. , Sohl Linda E. , Haywood Alan M. , Hunter Stephen J. , Tindall Julia C. , Williams Charles , Lunt Daniel J. , Chan Wing-Le , Abe-Ouchi Ayako
Published: September 2020

Abstract. In the Pliocene Model Intercomparison Project phase 2 (PlioMIP2), coupled climate models have been used to simulate an interglacial climate during the mid-Piacenzian warm period (mPWP, 3.264 to 3.025 Ma). Here, we compare the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), poleward ocean heat transport and sea surface warming in the Atlantic simulated with these models. In PlioMIP2, all models simulate an intensified mid-Pliocene AMOC. However, there is no consistent response in the simulated Atlantic ocean heat transport, or the depth of the Atlantic overturning cell. The models show a large spread in the simulated AMOC maximum, the Atlantic ocean heat transport, as well as the surface warming in the North Atlantic. Although a few models simulate a surface warming of ~ 8–12 ° in the North Atlantic, similar to the reconstruction from Pliocene Research, Interpretation and Synoptic Mapping (PRISM), most models underestimate this warming. The large model-spread and model-data discrepancies in the PlioMIP2 ensemble does not support the hypothesis that an intensification of the AMOC, together with an increase in northward ocean heat transport, is the dominant forcing for the mid-Pliocene warm climate.
Identification of rock and fracture kinematics in high Alpine rockwalls under the influence of altitude
Authors: Draebing Daniel
Published: September 2020

Abstract. Alpine environments are characterized by fractured rock. Fractures propagate by weathering processes in a subcritical way, and prepare and trigger rock slope failures. In this study, I investigated (1) the influence of thermal changes on rock kinematics on intact rock samples from the Hungerli Valley, Swiss Alps. To (2) quantify thermal and ice induced rock and fracture kinematics and (3) identify differences of their spatial occurrence, I instrumented crackmeters at intact and fractured rock at four rockwalls reaching from 2585 to 2935 m. My laboratory data shows that thermal expansion follows three phases of rock kinematics: (1) cooling phase, (2) transition phase and (3) warming phase, which result in a hysteresis effect. The cooling phase is characterized by rock contraction, while all samples experienced rock expansion in the warming phase. During the transition phase, rock temperatures differ between rock surface and rock depth, which results in a differentiated response. The dummy crackmeters in the field reflect temperature phases observed in the laboratory and data suggest a block size dependency of the transition phase. In fractured rock, fractures open during cooling and reversely close during warming on daily and annual scale. The dipping of the shear plane controls if fracture aperture decreases with time or increases due to thermal induced block crawling. On seasonal scale, slow ice segregation induced fracture opening can occur within lithology-dependent frost cracking windows. Snow cover controls the magnitude and the number of daily temperature changes, reduces the magnitude of annual cooling but increases the length of the cooling period and, therefore, the potential occurrence of ice segregation. The effects of snow cover increases with altitude due to longer snow duration. Climate change induced warming will shift annual thermal stresses at lower altitudes, however, a shortening of the snow period can increase ground cooling and thermal stress at higher altitudes but also can reduce the length of the ice segregation period. In conclusion, climate change will affect and change rock and fracture kinematics and, therefore, rockfall patterns in Alpine environments.
Predicting Sediment Discharge at Water Treatment Plant Under Different Land Use Scenarios Coupling Expert-Based GIS Model and Deep Neural Network
Authors: Patault Edouard , Landemaine Valentin , Ledun Jérôme , Soulignac Arnaud , Fournier Matthieu , Ouvry Jean-François , Cerdan Olivier , Laignel Benoit
Published: September 2020

Abstract. Excessive sediment discharge at karstic springs and thus, water treatment plants, can be highly disruptive. It is essential for catchment stakeholders and drinking water supplier to reduce the impact of sediment on potable water supply, but their strategic choices must be based on simulations, integrating surface and groundwater transfers, and taking into account possible changes in land use. Karstic environments are particularly challenging as they face a lack of accurate physical description for the modelling process, and they can be seen as a black-box due to the non-linearity of the processes generating sediment discharge. The aim of the study was to assess the sediment discharge variability at a water treatment plant according to multiple realistic land use scenarios. To reach that goal, we developed a new coupled modelling approach with an erosion-runoff GIS model (WaterSed) and a deep neural network. The model was used in the Radicatel catchment (106 km2 in Normandy, France) where karstic spring water is extracted to a water treatment plant. The sediment discharge was simulated for five designed storm projects under current land use and compared to three land use scenarios (baseline, ploughing up of grassland, eco-engineering, best farming practices). Daily rainfall time series and WaterSed modelling outputs extracted at connected sinkholes were used as input data for the deep neural network model. The model structure was found by a classical trial and error procedure, and the model was trained on two significant hydrologic years. Evaluation on a test set showed a good performance of the model (NSE = 0.82), and the application of a monthly-backward chaining nested cross validation revealed that the model is able to generalize on new datasets. Simulations made for the three land use scenarios suggested that ploughing up 33 % of grasslands would not increase significantly sediment discharge at the water treatment plant (5 % in average). In the opposite, eco-engineering and best farming practices will significantly reduce sediment discharge at the water treatment plant (respectively in the range of 10–44 and 24–61 %). The coupling of these two strategies is the most efficient since it affects the hydro-sedimentary production and transfer processes (decreasing sediment discharge from 40 to 80 %). The coupled modelling approach developed in this study offers interesting opportunities for sediment discharge prediction at karstic springs or water treatment plant under multiple land use scenarios. It also provides robust decision-making tools for land use planning and drinking water suppliers.
The object-specific flood damage database HOWAS 21
Authors: Kellermann Patric , Schröter Kai , Thieken Annegret H. , Haubrock Sören-Nils , Kreibich Heidi
Published: September 2020

Abstract. The Flood Damage Database HOWAS 21 contains object-specific flood damage data resulting from fluvial, pluvial and groundwater flooding. The datasets incorporate various variables of flood hazard, exposure, vulnerability and direct tangible damage at properties from several economic sectors. The main purpose of development of HOWAS 21
was to support forensic flood analysis and the derivation of flood damage
models. HOWAS 21 was first developed for Germany and currently almost
exclusively contains datasets from Germany. However, its scope has recently
been enlarged with the aim to serve as an international flood damage
database; e.g. its web application is now available in German and English.
This paper presents the recent advancements of HOWAS 21 and highlights
exemplary analyses to demonstrate the use of HOWAS 21 flood damage data. The data applications indicate a large potential of the database for fostering a better understanding and estimation of the consequences of flooding.
Lessons Learned: Implementing the Shaping Healthy Choices Program With Teenagers as Teachers
Authors: Ruiz Lyndsey D. , Brian Kelley M. , Scherr Rachel E.
Published: September 2020

One approach that has been successful at improving youth health outcomes is the Shaping Healthy Choices Program, which features garden- and cooking-demonstration-based nutrition education curricula. The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility of implementing Shaping Healthy Choices Program curricula in 4-H using a teenagers as cross-age teachers approach. A teenagers as cross-age teachers model was employed to educate younger youth using the evidence-based curricula in 2 projects, each lasting 6 months over a 2-year period. Teenage teachers completed an initial 2-day training and reflection-on-action discussions following each educational session. Fidelity observations were collected to assess how well the curricula were delivered by teenage teachers. With a goal of 80%, overall fidelity was low (45%) and teenage teachers were able to deliver only the procedure component of the lessons with adequate average fidelity (84.6%). Poor participant attendance hindered presentation of additional data. Findings from this study suggest a need for more extensive and specific training for teenage teachers to implement the Shaping Healthy Choices Program.
Leading With Youth of Color: Organizing for Educational Change
Authors: Clemons Rachael Lee Ficke
Published: September 2020

In the United States, young people of color are under attack. The school-to-prison pipeline, poverty, and racism are some of the systems of oppression that young people of color navigate. The challenging conditions that youth of color face have historically been met by their powerful resistance. Young people of color have fought for educational equity for decades. In the community in which this research study was situated, social justice youth development (SJYD) workers supported youth as they resisted unjust educational policies. I set out to answer the research question: In urban communities, how do youth workers engage adolescent youth in social justice activism? I found that adult youth workers at People for Change, a SJYD organization, maintained a consistent and multi-layered approach to supporting youth as they engaged in social justice activism. This paper highlights the ways in which adult youth workers (a) networked adult and youth supporters, (b) engaged in action, and (c) co-constructed knowledge with young people of color.
4-H STEM Curriculum Challenges: A Delphi study
Authors: Branscum Hannah , Sallee Jeff , Allen Kevin , Baker Marshall A. , Blackwell Samantha
Published: September 2020

Science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) skills have become essential for today’s youth. STEM-literate individuals are a necessity to fill the ever-growing STEM employment pipeline. Employers are expecting applicants with STEM skills. 4-H programs across the nation have recognized the importance of educating STEM-minded youth. As STEM programs become more prevalent within 4-H, it is essential to address challenges Extension educators and 4-H volunteers face when teaching STEM curriculum. In this study the Delphi technique was utilized to collect the opinions of a geographically dispersed group of 4-H Extension educators and volunteers. Each group served on a separate panel and were asked the question, “What challenges do you face when teaching STEM curriculum?” After three rounds of study, both the educator and volunteer panels identified 2 challenges faced when teaching STEM curriculum. Through identification of these challenges, Oklahoma state 4-H staff can better address the professional development needs of educators and volunteers within the organization, and support the desired scientific literacy outcomes of 4-H youth.
A Mixed-Methods Evaluation to Measure 4-H STEM Program Quality
Authors: Donaldson Joseph L. , Franck Karen L.
Published: September 2020

The 4-H Science: Building a 4-H Career Pathway Initiative was a 3-year collaboration among National 4-H Council, Lockheed Martin, and state 4-H grantees to help more than 50,000 youth in 13 states develop STEM and workforce skills for STEM professions. A mixed-methods design used observations and interviews to assess program quality. Researchers observed 4-H STEM programming and conducted individual and focus group interviews with youth, parents, community volunteers, corporate volunteers, and professionals. Observations were conducted using a validated observational tool, the Out-of-School Time (OST) Observation Instrument with STEM Plug-In. This instrument measured youth relationship building, youth participation, staff relationship building, staff instructional strategies, activity content and structure, and STEM instruction. Findings from the observations and interviews were combined to assess program quality. Sites scoring highest on the OST Observation Instrument reported using quality STEM curriculum, especially National 4-H Youth Science Day lessons. The 4-H STEM programs demonstrated highly evident and consistent youth relationship building (e.g., being friendly and collaborative) and youth participation (e.g.., contributing ideas and taking leadership). Yet, in many cases, STEM youth skill development (e.g., drawing connections to real-world concepts) and STEM staff instructional practices (e.g., discussing how youth could pursue STEM content through their education and/or career) were inconsistent and rarely evident. Recommendations include substantive professional and volunteer development for both STEM competencies and enhanced youth development. The OST Observation Instrument with STEM Plug-In provided a comprehensive tool to evaluate program quality, and it is recommended for use in evaluating other 4-H STEM programs.
Resource Review: Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness
Authors: Bloir Kirk
Published: September 2020

Youth-serving professionals have unique opportunities to help support military families in promoting positive youth development. The Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness provides information, resources, and tools on effective programs and practices youth development professionals, schools, and communities can use to help support military families. It is a comprehensive, trusted, easy-to-navigate source of evidence-based and evidence-informed resources, technical assistance, and support that helps professionals who support military families do that work more effectively.
Gender Differences in Attitudes and Achievement in Mathematics among Ghanaian JHS Students
Authors: Anokye-Poku Derrick , Ampadu Ernest
Published: September 2020

Students’ learning and performance in mathematics is affected by several factors, including students’ attitude. This paper aims to understand the gender differences in attitude toward mathematics and mathematics achievement. A descriptive survey design was used, and the participants consisted of 360 Junior High School students. Two instruments, semi-structured questionnaire and students test scores were used. The results revealed that, in general, both female and male students held positive attitudes towards mathematics, and there was no significant difference in attitudes between genders toward mathematics. However, the results established that there was a significant difference in achievement. It was recommended that to achieve sustainable development goal 4, teachers, parents, and educational authorities should develop creative and innovative ways of helping students, especially female students to build self-confidence in the learning of mathematics.