bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Airborne observations and modeling of springtime stratosphere-to-troposphere transport over California
Authors: Yates E. L. , Iraci L. T. , Roby M. C. , Pierce R. B. , Johnson M. S. , Reddy P. J. , Tadić J. M. , Loewenstein M. , Gore W.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Stratosphere-to-troposphere transport (STT) results in air masses of stratospheric origin intruding into the free troposphere. Once in the free troposphere, O3-rich stratospheric air can be transported and mixed with tropospheric air masses, contributing to the tropospheric O3 budget. Evidence of STT can be identified based on the differences in the trace gas composition of the two regions. Because ozone (O3) is present in such large quantities in the stratosphere compared to the troposphere, it is frequently used as a tracer for STT events. This work reports on airborne in situ measurements of O3 and other trace gases during two STT events observed over California, USA. The first, on 14 May 2012, was associated with a cut-off low, and the second, on 5 June 2012, occurred during a post-trough, building ridge event. In each STT event, airborne measurements identified high O3 within a stratospheric intrusion which was observed as low as 3 km above sea level. During both events the stratospheric air mass was characterized by elevated O3 mixing ratios and reduced carbon dioxide (CO2) and water vapor. The reproducible observation of reduced CO2 within the stratospheric air mass supports the use of non-conventional tracers as an additional method for detecting STT. A detailed meteorological analysis of each STT event is presented and observations are interpreted with the Realtime Air Quality Modeling System (RAQMS). The implications of the two STT events are discussed in terms of the impact on the total tropospheric O3 budget and the impact on air quality and policy-making.
A chemical analyzer for charged ultrafine particles
Authors: Gonser S. G. , Held A.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. New particle formation is a frequent phenomenon in the atmosphere and of major significance for the earth's climate and human health. To date the mechanisms leading to the nucleation of particles as well as to aerosol growth are not completely understood. A lack of appropriate measurement equipment for online analysis of the chemical composition of freshly nucleated particles is one major limitation. We have developed a Chemical Analyzer for Charged Ultrafine Particles (CAChUP) capable of analyzing particles with diameters below 30 nm. A bulk of size separated particles is collected electrostatically on a metal filament, resistively desorbed and consequently analyzed for its molecular composition in a time of flight mass spectrometer. We report of technical details as well as characterization experiments performed with the CAChUP. Our instrument was tested in the laboratory for its detection performance as well as for its collection and desorption capabilities. The manual application of known masses of camphene (C10H16) to the desorption filament resulted in a detection limit between 0.5 and 5 ng, and showed a linear response of the mass spectrometer. Flow tube experiments of 25 nm diameter secondary organic aerosol from ozonolysis of alpha-pinene also showed a linear relation between collection time and the mass spectrometer's signal intensity. The resulting mass spectra from the collection experiments are in good agreement with published work on particles generated by the ozonolysis of alpha-pinene. A sensitivity study shows that the current setup of CAChUP is ready for laboratory measurements and for the observation of new particle formation events in the field.
Seasonal, daily and diel N2 effluxes in permeable carbonate sediments
Authors: Eyre B. D. , Santos I. R. , Maher D. T.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Benthic metabolism and inorganic nitrogen and N2 flux rates (denitrification) were measured in permeable carbonate sands from Heron Island (Great Barrier Reef). Some of the N2 flux rates were among the highest measured in sediments. All benthic fluxes showed a significant difference between seasons with higher rates in summer and late summer. There was no distinct response of the benthic system to mass coral spawning. Instead, changes in benthic fluxes over 12 days in summer appear to be driven by tidal changes in water depth and associated changes in phytosynthetically active radiation reaching the sediments. Dark N2 fluxes were strongly correlated to benthic oxygen consumption across all sites and seasons (r2 = 0.63; p < 0.005; slope = 0.035). However, there were seasonal differences with a steeper slope in summer than winter, reflecting either more efficient coupling between respiration and nitrification–denitrification at higher temperatures or different sources of organic matter. Adding data from published studies on carbonate sands revealed two slopes in the dark N2 flux versus benthic oxygen consumption relationship. The lower slope (0.035) was most likely due to high carbon : nitrogen (C : N) organic matter from coral reefs, and associated assimilation of nitrogen by heterotrophic bacteria including enhanced heterotrophic N-fixation, but competition by benthic microalgae or inefficient coupling between respiration and nitrification–denitrification cannot be excluded. The steeper slope (0.089) was most likely due to respiration being driven by low C : N phytodetritus. If the different slopes were driven by the sources of organic matter, then global estimates of continental shelf denitrification are probably about right. In contrast, global estimates of continental shelf denitrification may be over-estimated if the low slope was due to inefficient coupling between respiration and nitrification–denitrification and also due to reduced N2 effluxes in the light associated with competition by benthic microalgae for nitrogen and N-fixation.
Inter-annual variation of chlorophyll in the northern South China Sea observed at the SEATS Station and its asymmetric responses to climate oscillation
Authors: Liu K.-K. , Wang L.-W. , Dai M. , Tseng C.-M. , Yang Y. , Sui C.-H. , Oey L. , Tseng K.-Y. , Huang S.-M.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. It is widely recognized that the variation of average surface chlorophyll a concentration (Chl) in the South China Sea (SCS) is closely related to wind forcing, especially during the intense winter monsoon. In this study we demonstrate that, after removal of the seasonal cycles, the variation of Chl showed strong asymmetric responses to wind speed under El Niño or La Niña conditions. The analysis was based on a time-series of Chl in the study area (115–117° E, 17–19° N) around the SEATS (South-East Asian Time-series Study) station located in the central northern SCS from September 1997 to the end of 2011, which was constructed by merging the SeaWiFS data (1997–2006) and MODIS data (2003–2011). The merged daily data were validated by shipboard observations at the SEATS station. The non-seasonal variations of monthly mean Chl, wind speed, sea surface height (SSH) and sea surface temperature (SST) were examined against the multivariate ENSO index (MEI). The analysis reveals strongly asymmetric correlations of Chl and SST with positive MEI (El Niño) or negative MEI (La Niña). Under El Niño conditions, both showed significant correlations with MEI or wind speed; under La Niña conditions, both showed weak or insignificant correlations. The contrast was more pronounced for Chl than for SST. The subdued responses of Chl to wind forcing under La Niña conditions were probably attributed to a deepened thermocline, for which wind driven nutrient pumping is less efficient. A deeper thermocline, which was observed during the 1999–2000 La Niña event and inferred by positive SSH anomalies during other La Niña events, was probably caused by reduced SCS throughflow under La Niña conditions. Intrusion of the nutrient-depleted Kuroshio water in the surface layer as observed during the 1999–2000 La Niña could be partially responsible for the suppressed Chl response.
Interdependence of the Northern Hemisphere ice-sheets build-up during the last glaciation: the role of atmospheric circulation
Authors: Beghin P. , Charbit S. , Dumas C. , Kageyama M. , Roche D. M. , Ritz C.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. The development of large continental-scale ice sheets over Canada and Northern Europe during the last glacial cycle likely modified the track of stationary waves and influenced the location of growing ice sheets through changes in accumulation and temperature patterns. Although they are often mentioned in the literature, these feedback mechanisms are poorly constrained and have never been studied throughout an entire glacial-interglacial cycle. Using the climate model of intermediate complexity CLIMBER-2 coupled with the 3-D ice-sheet model GRISLI, we investigate the impact of stationary waves on the construction of past Northern Hemisphere ice sheets during the past glaciation. The stationary waves are not explicitly computed in the model but their effect on sea-level pressure is parameterized. Several parameterizations have been tested allowing to study separately the effect of surface temperature (thermal forcing) and topography (orographic forcing) on sea-level pressure, and therefore on atmospheric circulation and ice-sheet surface mass balance. We show that the response of ice sheets to thermal and/or orographic forcings is rather different. At the beginning of the glaciation, the orographic effect favors the growth of the Laurentide ice sheet, whereas Fennoscandia appears rather sensitive to the thermal effect. Using the ablation parameterization as a trigger to artificially modify the size of one ice sheet, the remote influence of one ice sheet on the other is also studied as a function of the stationary wave parameterizations. The sensitivity of remote ice sheets is shown to be highly sensitive to the choice of these parameterizations with a larger response when orographic effect is accounted for. Results presented in this study suggest that the various spatial distributions of ice sheets could be partly be explained by the feedbacks mechanisms occurring between ice sheets and atmospheric circulation.
Assessment of waterlogging in agricultural megaprojects in the closed drainage basins of the Western Desert of Egypt
Authors: El Bastawesy M. , Ramadan Ali R. , Faid A. , El Osta M.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. This paper investigates the development of waterlogging in the cultivated and arable areas within typical dryland closed drainage basins (e.g. the Farafra and Baharia Oases), which are located in the Western Desert of Egypt. Multi-temporal remote sensing data of the Landsat Thematic Mapper (TM) and Enhanced Thematic Mapper (ETM+) were collected and processed to detect the land cover changes; cultivations, and the extent of water ponds and seepage channels. The Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) digital elevation model (DEM) has been processed to delineate the catchment morphometrical parameters (i.e. drainage networks, catchment divides and surface areas of different basins) and to examine the spatial distribution of cultivated fields and their relation to the extracted drainage networks. The soil of these closed drainage basins is mainly shallow and lithic with high calcium carbonate content; therefore, the downward percolation of excess irrigation water is limited by the development of subsurface hardpan, which also saturates the upper layer of soil with water. The subsurface seepage from the newly cultivated areas in the Farafra Oasis has revealed the pattern of buried alluvial channels, which are waterlogged and outlined by the growth of diagnostic saline shrubs. Furthermore, the courses of these waterlogged channels are coinciding with their counterparts of the SRTM DEM, and the recent satellite images show that the surface playas in the downstream of these channels are partially occupied by water ponds. On the other hand, a large water pond has occupied the main playa and submerged the surrounding fields, as a large area has been cultivated within a relatively small closed drainage basin in the Baharia Oasis. The geomorphology of closed drainage basins has to be considered when planning for a new cultivation in dryland catchments to better control waterlogging hazards. The "dry-drainage" concept can be implemented as the drainage and seepage water can be conveyed through the inactive alluvial channels into certain abandoned playas for evaporation.
How to identify groundwater-caused thermal anomalies in lakes based on multi-temporal satellite data in semi-arid regions
Authors: Mallast U. , Siebert C. , Gloaguen R. , Friesen J. , Rödiger T. , Geyer S. , Merz R.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Information on groundwater discharge over large spatial scales are essential for groundwater management particularly in (semi-) arid regions. If discharge areas are known, direct measurements over larger spatial scales are complicated to obtain by conventional means, why thermal remote sensing is increasingly applied to localize and quantify groundwater discharge. In this context, mostly unconsidered is (i) the influence of surface-runoff that can negatively affect groundwater focused studies and (ii) the representativeness of remotely sensed groundwater discharge based on single thermal images, against the background of discharge intermittency. Addressing these issues we apply a multi-temporal SST data approach based on 19 Landsat ETM+ band 6.2 (high gain) data from the year 2000 until 2002 at the example of the (semi-)arid vicinity of Dead Sea. To be independent of auxiliary rain data we develop a novel approach to identify surface-runoff influenced images solely using image statistics. Compared to foregoing rain events the result reveals a general influence-time of at least two days, but also that a simple time-difference criterion to exclude possible surface-runoff is not advisable. In the second part of the study we evaluate the significance of six statistical measures calculated on a per-pixel basis on the remaining 12 surface-runoff uninfluenced sea-surface-temperature (SST) data using in situ discharge measurements of the Israel Hydrological Service (IHS). We found that the spatial patterns of the standard deviation and range on the SST data series best fit to the IHS observed discharge locations and hence are suitable for detecting groundwater discharge areas.
Uncertainty analysis in model parameters regionalization: a case study involving the SWAT model in Mediterranean catchments (Southern France)
Authors: Sellami H. , La Jeunesse I. , Benabdallah S. , Baghdadi N. , Vanclooster M.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. In this study a method for propagating the hydrological model uncertainty in discharge predictions of ungauged Mediterranean catchments using a model parameter regionalization approach is presented. The method is developed and tested for the Thau catchment located in southern France using the SWAT hydrological model. Regionalization of model parameters based on physical similarity measured between gauged and ungauged catchments attributes is a popular methodology for discharge prediction in ungauged basins, but it is often confronted with an arbitrary criterion for selecting the "behavioral" model parameters sets (Mps) at the gauged catchment. A more objective method is provided in this paper where the transferrable Mps are selected based on the similarity between the donor and the receptor catchments. In addition, the method allows propagating the modeling uncertainty while transferring the Mps to the ungauged catchments. Results indicate that physically similar catchments located within the same geographic and climatic region may exhibit similar hydrological behavior and can also be affected by similar model prediction uncertainty. Furthermore, the results suggest that model prediction uncertainty at the ungauged catchment increases as the dissimilarity between the donor and the receptor catchments increases. The methodology presented in this paper can be replicated and used in regionalization of any hydrological model parameters for estimating streamflow at ungauged catchment.
Risk-based methodology for parameter calibration of a reservoir flood control model
Authors: Bianucci P. , Sordo-Ward A. , Pérez J. I. , García-Palacios J. , Mediero L. , Garrote L.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Flash floods are of major relevance in natural disaster management in the Mediterranean region. In many cases, the damaging effects of flash floods can be mitigated by adequate management of flood control reservoirs. This requires the development of suitable models for optimal operation of reservoirs. A probabilistic methodology for calibrating the parameters of a reservoir flood control model (RFCM) that takes into account the stochastic variability of flood events is presented. This study addresses the crucial problem of operating reservoirs during flood events, considering downstream river damages and dam failure risk as conflicting operation criteria. These two criteria are aggregated into a single objective of total expected damages from both the maximum released flows and stored volumes (overall risk index). For each selected parameter set the RFCM is run under a wide range of hydrologic loads (determined through Monte Carlo simulation). The optimal parameter set is obtained through the overall risk index (balanced solution) and then compared with other solutions of the Pareto front. The proposed methodology is implemented at three different reservoirs in the southeast of Spain. The results obtained show that the balanced solution offers a good compromise between the two main objectives of reservoir flood control management.
A systemic method for evaluating the potential impacts of floods on network infrastructures
Authors: Eleutério J. , Hattemer C. , Rozan A.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Understanding network infrastructures and their operation under exceptional circumstances is fundamental for dealing with flood risks and improving the resilience of a territory. This work presents a method for evaluating potential network infrastructure dysfunctions and damage in cases of flooding. In contrast to existing approaches, this method analyses network infrastructures on an elementary scale, by considering networks as a group of elements with specific functions and individual vulnerabilities. Our analysis places assets at the centre of the evaluation process, resulting in the construction of damage-dysfunction matrices based on expert interviews. These matrices permit summarising the different vulnerabilities of network infrastructures, describing how the different components are linked to each other and how they can disrupt the operation of the network. They also identify the actions and resources needed to restore the system to operational status following damage and dysfunctions, an essential point when dealing with the question of resilience. The method promotes multi-network analyses and is illustrated by a French case study. Sixty network experts were interviewed during the analysis of the following networks: drinking water supply, waste water, public lighting, gas distribution and electricity supply.
Development of an inverse method for coastal risk management
Authors: Idier D. , Rohmer J. , Bulteau T. , Delvallée E.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Recent flooding events, like Katrina (USA, 2005) or Xynthia (France, 2010), illustrate the complexity of coastal systems and the limits of traditional flood risk analysis. Among other questions, these events raised issues such as: "how to choose flooding scenarios for risk management purposes?", "how to make a society more aware and prepared for such events?" and "which level of risk is acceptable to a population?". The present paper aims at developing an inverse approach that could seek to address these three issues. The main idea of the proposed method is the inversion of the usual risk assessment steps: starting from the maximum acceptable hazard level (defined by stakeholders as the one leading to the maximum tolerable consequences) to finally obtain the return period of this threshold. Such an "inverse" approach would allow for the identification of all the offshore forcing conditions (and their occurrence probability) inducing a threat for critical assets of the territory, such information being of great importance for coastal risk management. This paper presents the first stage in developing such a procedure. It focuses on estimation (through inversion of the flooding model) of the offshore conditions leading to the acceptable hazard level, estimation of the return period of the associated combinations, and thus of the maximum acceptable hazard level. A first application for a simplified case study (based on real data), located on the French Mediterranean coast, is presented, assuming a maximum acceptable hazard level. Even if only one part of the full inverse method has been developed, we demonstrate how the inverse method can be useful in (1) estimating the probability of exceeding the maximum inundation height for identified critical assets, (2) providing critical offshore conditions for flooding in early warning systems, and (3) raising awareness of stakeholders and eventually enhance preparedness for future flooding events by allowing them to assess risk to their territory. The next challenge is to develop a framework to properly identify the acceptable hazard level, as an input to the present inverse approach.
Influence of ablation-related processes in the build-up of simulated Northern Hemisphere ice sheets during the last glacial cycle
Authors: Charbit S. , Dumas C. , Kageyama M. , Roche D. M. , Ritz C.
Published: April 2013

Abstract. Since the original formulation of the positive-degree-day (PDD) method, different PDD calibrations have been proposed in the literature in response to the increasing number of observations. Although these formulations generally provide a satisfactory description of the present-day Greenland geometry, they have not all been tested for paleo ice sheets. Using the climate-ice sheet model CLIMBER-GRISLI coupled with different PDD models, we evaluate how the parameterisation of the ablation may affect the evolution of Northern Hemisphere ice sheets in the transient simulations of the last glacial cycle. Results from fully coupled simulations are compared to time-slice experiments carried out at different key periods of the last glacial period. We find large differences in the simulated ice sheets according to the chosen PDD model. These differences occur as soon as the onset of glaciation, therefore affecting the subsequent evolution of the ice system. To further investigate how the PDD method controls this evolution, special attention is given to the role of each PDD parameter. We show that glacial inception is critically dependent on the representation of the impact of the temperature variability from the daily to the inter-annual time scale, whose effect is modulated by the refreezing scheme. Finally, an additional set of sensitivity experiments has been carried out to assess the relative importance of melt processes with respect to initial ice sheet configuration in the construction and the evolution of past Northern Hemisphere ice sheets. Our analysis reveals that the impacts of the initial ice sheet condition may range from quite negligible to explaining about half of the LGM ice volume depending on the representation of stochastic temperature variations which remain the main driver of the evolution of the ice system. The main findings of this paper underline the need for conducting studies with high resolution climate models coupled to detailed snow models to better constrain the temporal and spatial variations of the PDD parameters. The development of such approaches could improve the calibration of the PDD formulation which is still widely used in climate-ice sheet studies.
Impact of Phase of Respiration on Central Venous Catheter Tip Position
Authors: Pan Patrick P. , Engstrom Bjorn I. , Lungren Matthew P. , Seaman Danielle M. , Lessne Mark L. , Kim Charles Y.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To determine the impact of the phase of respiration on CVC tip position using cross-sectional imaging.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed the CT scans of 24 consecutive patients (eight men and 16 women, mean age 56.3 years, range 18-79) who underwent a CT scan protocol that includes both imaging of the thorax in inspiration and expiration. Only patients with a central venous catheter and absence of any substantial pulmonary pathology that might affect lung volumes were included. Measurements of the catheter tip location and central venous structures were obtained from inspiratory and expiratory phase images in each patient and compared using the paired t test.

Results

The length of the SVC and superior mediastinum were significantly longer during inspiration compared to expiration (9 mm and 7 mm respectively, P<0.001 for both). The distance between the superior and inferior cavo-atrial junction did not change significantly with respiration. The catheter tip location moved on average 9 mm (range 0-25 mm) cephalad during inspiration compared to expiration (P=0.001) in relation to the superior cavoatrial junction. The amount of catheter tip movement correlated significantly with the degree of diaphragmatic excursion with respiration (R=0.58). During inspiration, the cavo-atrial junction was on average 11 mm inferior to the right cardiomediastinal angle observed on radiography, but was nearly identical during expiration (R=0.78, P<0.001).

Conclusions

The central catheter tip position varied significantly with respiratory motion, with a mean excursion of 9 mm. The right cardiomediastinal border demonstrated a strong correlation with the actual location of the superior cavo-atrial junction in expiration, but not in inspiration.
Tourism and Innovation in China and Spain: A Review of Innovation Research on Tourism
Authors: Medina-Muñoz Diego R. , Medina-Muñoz Rita D. , Zúñiga-Collazos Alexander
Published: April 2013

Given the current economic contribution of tourism to the Chinese and Spanish national economies, tourism innovation in these two countries becomes a vehicle for improving tourism competitiveness and sustainability. This article presents a comparative analysis of the relevance, recent growth and particularities of tourism and innovation in China and Spain, with the objective of identifying the tourism innovation needs of each country. Innovation research on tourism is also reviewed as a means to a better understanding of tourism innovation activities in each country. This review of the academic literature further examines the levels of analysis, the research topics and the major conclusions. In light of their findings, the authors then offer recommendations on how to enhance the tourism innovation performance and improve research on tourism innovation in China and Spain.
Network Functions of Travel Marts in China: Amendments to the Rosson and Seringhaus Network Model
Authors: Luo Qiu-Ju , Chen Ke-Yao
Published: April 2013

The two-dimensional network model proposed by Rosson and Seringhaus in 1995 was a key achievement in the study of trade fair functions. The model incorporates both exhibitor–visitor interactions and the multi-level functions of trade fairs and has attracted considerable scholarly attention. It is based on the case of Western market-oriented trade fairs in which material objects are displayed. However, the model is unable to explain certain aspects of China's travel marts, which are strongly controlled by the government and where the only exhibits are intangible services. Another of the model's shortcomings is that it is limited to two-dimensional exhibitor–visitor interactions. This study tests, complements and amends the Rosson Seringhaus network model for the special case of China. The authors investigate the differences between travel marts and traditional trade fairs, and amend several parts of the model, taking the China International Travel Mart (CITM) and China National Travel Mart (CNTM) as case studies. In light of their analysis, they propose an important amendment to the Rosson Seringhaus model, revising the relationship network, the network boundaries and the multiple participant identities. In addition, they find that the relationship network in a travel mart is much wider and more complex than that in a traditional trade fair, leading to greater complexity and diversification in the functions of a travel mart. Finally, they find that, in a three-dimensional exhibitor–visitor–organizer network, the overlap between identities and network expansion results in a highly complex interaction among stakeholders. Consequently, it is difficult for organizers and exhibitors to handle a travel mart successfully and improve the effectiveness of their trade fair participation.
Birding Tourism Development in Sichuan, China
Authors: Li Feng , Zhu Qi , Yang Zhenzhi
Published: April 2013

With its abundant bird resources, China is becoming one of the most important destinations for bird watching. Sichuan province accounts for 50% of China's total national bird species and attracts domestic and international researchers and tourists. However, the development of birding tourism in Sichuan and relevant research are still at an early stage. This paper presents an investigation of birding tourism in Sichuan based on a literature survey, field work and interviews with experts. The paper examines birding resources, site characteristics, economic feasibility and the key factors affecting the tourism industry in this region. Current problems relating to Sichuan's birding tourism are discussed in conjunction with its prospects.
Evolution of Middle-Class Chinese Outbound Travel Preferences: An International Perspective
Authors: Zeng Guojun , Go Frank
Published: April 2013

This study explores the outbound travel behaviour of middle-class Chinese, based on in-depth interviews at travel agencies and Chinese government institutions, to gain an understanding of outbound travel preferences. The results indicate that the size of China's middle-class outbound business travel segment has remained relatively unchanged while increased purchasing power has enabled well-educated, high-income workers aged 20–35 to enter the market for leisure travel. A noticeable shift in consumer preference is observed in flows from Western European to Eastern European destinations that joined the Schengen Agreement and from Southeast Asian to East Asian destinations, while immigration requirements constrain flows to the USA. The paper provides a framework for a systematic review to assess the average disposable income growth of China's middle class in relation to Chinese outbound tourist flows relevant for researchers, tourism and hospitality decision makers.
Estimating the Impact of Impaired Visibility on the Demand for Visits to National Parks
Authors: Poudyal Neelam C. , Paudel Bamadev , Green Gary T.
Published: April 2013

The authors fitted a number of time-series econometric models to monthly visitation data of a national park to examine the effect of impaired visibility on visitation demand. Using a polynomial distributed lag model, the long-run elasticity of demand with respect to visibility in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park (GSMNP) was estimated. The GSMNP, the most visited national park in the USA, has significant air quality issues. Although the park has observed some fluctuation in visitation, the results indicate that the demand for visitation in general and for specific recreational visits are mean reverting and highly stable. Further, park visitation in a given month is significantly affected by the cumulative effect of the visibility condition in both the current and preceding months. Estimated elasticity reveals that a programme aiming to improve the average visibility by 10% (5.5 km) from the current level could result in an increase of roughly one million recreational visits annually, and that the increase would be higher for overnight visitors than for day visitors because of overnight visitors' relatively elastic demand. This demand model could assist park managers in their planning as they weigh the anticipated benefits of a visibility improvement programme against increased visitation and its associated costs.
The Impact of Demand and Supply Shocks on US Hospitality Index Returns
Authors: Chen Ming-Hsiang
Published: April 2013

In analysing the impact of demand and supply shocks on US hospitality index returns, this study tests whether these shocks can explain the index returns of five hospitality sectors: airlines, gambling, hotels, restaurants, and travel and leisure, and, if so, whether they have a different influence on hospitality index returns and market returns. The empirical test results show that both demand and supply shocks do affect US hospitality index returns and that the significant effects of both shocks vary across sectors. This paper identifies the critical role of changes in the corporate tax rate (demand shock and fiscal policy variable), the oil price growth rate (supply shock) and the labour wage growth rate (supply shock) in affecting hospitality index returns. Consistent with previous studies, the author finds that monetary policy (demand shock) still has a strong influence on hospitality index returns. However, hospitality index returns are not significantly related to the fiscal policy variable of changes in budget deficits. The paper concludes with a discussion of the results and their managerial implications for the guidance of hospitality business managers and investors interested in hospitality sectors.
Valuing Outdoor Recreation Activities Using a Meta-Analysis Model in China: An Empirical Study
Authors: Wang Erda , Zhao Ling , Zhou Ying , Little Bertis B.
Published: April 2013

This paper analyses a large dataset based on empirical non-market valuation study results reported in the USA. The dataset is used to estimate a meta-regression model that is applied to predict the corresponding recreation activity values in China. The convergent validity of the meta-analytical international benefit transfer is tested against observed recreation activity values in China. In the process, a relative percentage error indicator, paired t-test and the Wilcoxon signed-rank test are used. The mean benefit transfer error is 18.74%, an acceptable value for international transfer.
Stock Market Reactions to US Hotel Firms' Strategic Alliances
Authors: Koh Yoon , Lee Seoki
Published: April 2013

Despite the extensive research on strategic alliances in the mainstream management literature and the hospitality industry's long history of strategic alliances, research on strategic alliances in the hospitality industry has been lacking, especially research focusing on the relationship between strategic alliances and firm performance. Given this limited coverage, the current study empirically examines Chathoth and Olsen's (2003) conceptual framework of hospitality strategic alliances: moving from joint ventures, a traditional form of alliance, to collaborative alliances, such as the competitor-alliance, a newer form. The paper investigates strategic alliances in which US public hotel companies engaged during 2000–2008 and finds that collaborative alliances were more common in the hotel industry than joint ventures. The paper also investigates, through an event study methodology, how the stock market perceives the hotel alliances as they evolve from joint ventures to collaborative alliances. The authors find that the stock market perceives joint ventures positively. In the case of collaborative alliances, the market reacts positively after the initial announcement, though negatively prior to the announcement.
Research Note: Empirical Assessment of the Tourism-Led Growth Hypothesis — The Case of Vietnam
Authors: Trang Nguyen Ho Minh , Duc Nguyen Huu Chau , Dung Nguyen Tien
Published: April 2013

This study examines the tourism-led growth hypothesis (TLGH) in Vietnam during the period 1992–2011. The authors use two-step procedures to test the hypothesis. They first apply cointegration and the Granger causality test to identify the relationships between tourism earning and gross domestic product (GDP). Second, they use growth decomposition methodology to measure the contribution of tourism to economic growth. The results indicate that it is worthwhile for the government to implement economic policies to stimulate economic growth through the tourism sector in Vietnam.
ANÁLISE DESCRITIVA QUANTITATIVA APLICADA EM MEL DE ABELHAS (Apis mellifera): UMA REVISÃO
Authors: Mantilla Samira Pirola Santos , Santos Érica Barbosa , Barros Laís Buriti de , Freitas Mônica Queiroz de
Published: April 2013

Honey is a very popular product because of its flavor and aroma, aswell as its nutritional quality. Studies on the sensory analysis of honey help to understand their characteristics and their impact on the acceptability of the consumer. The QDA (Quantitative Descriptive Analysis) is a technique in which trained individuals identify and quantify the sensory properties of a product or ingredient in order of occurrence. This study performed a literature review about the ADQ, its importance in the sensory analysis of honey and the main sensory attributes identified in different honey bee. Meet the sensory properties of the product is great value for the quality control of honey produced in a given region, and their attributes should be described and quantified to ensure the production of honey with the same quality standard and without amendments
Trust, Business and Business Ethics: An Introduction
Authors: Brenkert George G.
Published: April 2013

It has been a quarter century since issues of trust began attracting the attention of those concerned with business and the management of business (cf. Zand). During the quarter century prior to that point, trust was particularly the concern of psychologists and those focused on issues of international security and relations between the superpowers. It is ironic, then, that at a time when there is increased trust between the superpowers, there seems to be less trust by many within and between businesses. Downsizing, mergers, outsourcing, and reengineering have led to mistrust by many employees of the business for which they work (or worked). Dangerous products, invasive marketing, and efforts to pressure people to agree to unneeded repairs have fostered mistrust between customers and businesses. Takeovers, leveraged buyouts and corporate espionage have fostered mistrust among businesses.

And yet the importance of trust within and between business organizations, both nationally and internationally, is increasingly recognized. Trust is said not only to reduce transaction costs, make possible the sharing of sensitive information, permit joint projects of various kinds, but also to provide a basis for expanded moral relations in business. Indeed, many (such as Gewirth and Hosmer) have claimed that ethics and trust are bound up together. One CEO has even claimed that “ethics is simply and ultimately a matter of trust. People act in their economic self-interest. But a system based on that fact must also be grounded on mutual trust, among individuals and among organizations” (Loucks, 1989: 55).

In light of these apparently conflicting movements of both extensive mistrust and expanding trust, as well as the strong claims made on behalf of trust, it is not surprising that trust has become an important topic for those studying business and its values.
The Stakeholder Revolution and the Clarkson Principles
Authors: Donaldson Thomas
Published: April 2013

What a difference a decade makes. Ten years ago the term “stakeholder” was slang for any neglected group affected by a corporation. To be sure, the word had been molded with precision by a thin, important line of management theorists. And to be sure also the word was sometimes used by managers who wanted to justify their personal commitments to groups other than stockholders, such as employees and customers. But like slang, “stakeholder” seemed perfectly plastic and therefore conceptually flawed. It meant one thing to one person, something else to another.

Today the term has arrived. Management journals and consultants flaunt it, and articles devoted to one or another interpretation of stakeholder theory are commonplace. Both the Encyclopedia of Management (Freeman 1998) and the Blackwell Encyclopedic Dictionary of Business Ethics (Freeman 1997) identify stakeholder theory as one of a tiny handful of recognized models for interpreting corporate responsibility. As the term rose to prominence, it acquired more solidity, and while varying interpretations of it can be found, a core of meaning pervades current stakeholder literature.

The success of the stakeholder terminology and of its accompanying theory has not been accidental. One of the influential forces galvanizing attention was the six-year effort on the definition of the corporation, sponsored by the Sloan Foundation, that situated the stakeholder concept at the center of its project. Through this project, books, conferences, meetings with stakeholder groups, and finally the “Principles of Stakeholder Management,” commonly referred to as the “Clarkson Principles,” brought energy and interest to stakeholder research.
Introduction: Special Issue on Health Care and Business Ethics
Authors: Wicks Andrew C.
Published: April 2013

Health care has been a hot topic within the United States for over a decade. Despite the many changes that have taken place, health care—and more specifically, versions of what have been termed “managed care”—continues to be a subject of intense debate and ongoing change. Whether the discussion is about access to care, quality of services, costs of care, or strains in the health care provider-patient relationship, a wide variety of stakeholders (e.g., patients, health care providers, health care organizations) have expressed frustration with the health care system. One of the central rallying cries behind the debate about health care is concern about the influence of “business” on health care. This special issue emerges out of the recognition that health care remains in flux, that health care continues to be a controversial subject among a wide array of stakeholders, and that the influence of business on health care is a key underlying source of tension.

Part of this debate has to do with what constitutes a just health care system. On the one hand, people in our society want to have access to high-quality care. More specifically, they want to be able to utilize the latest technology, care that is available when they need it (especially in crisis), a highly skilled care provider they can trust and develop a relationship with, and to not have to wait to gain access. On the other hand, people want a health care system they can afford. They want a health care system that is efficient, that offers reasonably priced services, and that doesn’t unduly strain the financial resources of families or the state.
Lung Cancer in the Era of Targeted Therapy: A Cytologist's Perspective
Authors: Zakowski Maureen F.
Published: April 2013

Context.—The diagnosis and treatment of non–small cell lung cancer have changed dramatically in the past few years. The discovery of activating mutations in the tyrosine kinase domain of the epidermal growth factor receptor and the use of drugs that successfully target those mutations are among the key advances that have led to a shift in the practice of oncology and pathology, with perhaps the greatest effect on the field of cytology.

Objectives.—To present the perspective of a practicing thoracic pathologist and cytopathologist on the developments that have changed practice and to place those changes in a broader context.

Data Sources.—Literature review, studies undertaken or participated in by the author, and personal experience.

Conclusions.—Cytologists are in an ideal position to influence appropriate testing and treatment in the era of targeted therapy. Lung pathology has led the way in the era of targeted therapy, in no small part due to cytology.
Modes d’intégration et usages des TIC au troisième cycle du primaire : une étude multicas
Authors: Bernet Emmanuel , Karsenti Thierry
Published: April 2013

L’objectif de cette recherche était de décrire les pratiques pédagogiques d’intégration des TIC de dix enseignants du troisième cycle du primaire quant aux usages et aux types d’organisation qu’ils mettent en oeuvre avec les élèves. Il en est ressorti que les enseignants ont perçu l’ordinateur en classe plus comme un outil d’apprentissage que comme un moyen de divertissement. En ce sens, les usages préconisés ont surtout été axés sur la recherche, le traitement et l’édition de l’information à l’aide du traitement de texte et d’Internet. Peu d’enseignants ont fait une utilisation des TIC vraiment intégrée à leur pédagogie. Les enseignants rapportent préférer utiliser les TIC directement en classe plutôt qu’au laboratoire, ce qui facilite une gestion de leurs usages beaucoup plus centrée sur l’élève, par des ateliers, des temps libres de travail et des projets. Le présent article met en évidence également certaines limites ainsi que plusieurs pistes de recherche. Il apporte aussi des recommandations pratiques.
Sources d’influence de l’autoefficacité relative à un enseignement intégrant les TIC chez des enseignants du primaire
Authors: Melançon Joanie , Lefebvre Sonia , Thibodeau Stéphane
Published: April 2013

Dans un contexte éducatif où l’intégration des technologies est prisée, on peut s’interroger sur la compétence des enseignants à intégrer les technologies de l’information et de la communication (TIC) (Mueller et al., 2008; Chai et al., 2011). Parmi les facteurs d’ordre personnel pouvant influencer le développement de cette compétence se trouve l’autoefficacité (Klassen et al., 2011; Wheatley, 2005). Cependant, les études qui s’intéressent aux facteurs d’influence de cette autoefficacité, dont celles de Bursal et Yigit (2012), de Kreijns et al. (2013) ainsi que de Robertson et Al-Zahrani (2012), affichent des résultats différents. Cet article présente donc une étude sur l’autoefficacité relative à un enseignement intégrant les TIC chez des enseignants du primaire. Plus précisément, il traite du niveau d’autoefficacité de ces enseignants et des sources d’influence de l’autoefficacité. Les résultats relatifs au niveau d’autoefficacité indiquent que la majorité des neuf enseignantes interrogées sont plutôt en accord avec le fait qu’elles sont en mesure d’intégrer les TIC dans leur enseignement et avec l’idée qu’un enseignement qui intègre les TIC apporte des retombées positives. Pour ce qui est des sources, ce sont l’expérience active de maîtrise ainsi que les états physiques et émotionnels qui semblent avoir une incidence plus marquée sur l’autoefficacité des participantes, alors que l’expérience vicariante et la persuasion verbale semblent y contribuer dans une moindre mesure. Ces résultats sont discutés à la lumière de la théorie sociocognitive de l’autoefficacité et d’études antérieures.
Avantages et défis inhérents à l’usage des ordinateurs portables au primaire et au secondaire
Authors: Karsenti Thierry , Collin Simon
Published: April 2013

Notre étude porte sur le contexte des classes où chaque élève possède son ordinateur portable, une des innovations actuelles les plus populaires en éducation. Dans le cadre de cette étude, notre ambition était d’abord de déterminer, selon la perception des élèves et des enseignants, l’apport des TIC dans le développement des compétences à écrire. Cette recherche visait également à identifier les principaux avantages et défis inhérents à l’usage régulier des technologies en salle de classe. Nous avons procédé à une enquête par questionnaire auprès de 2 712 élèves (de la 3e à la 11e année), de même qu’auprès de 389 enseignants. En premier lieu, l’analyse des résultats issus des questionnaires montre le rôle primordial des technologies dans la compétence à écrire des élèves : ces derniers rapportent écrire plus vite, plus et mieux – tant sur le plan du fond que de la forme – et, de surcroît, ils ont plus de plaisir à écrire. De façon globale, les données recueillies lors de la recherche ont permis de présenter dix autres principaux avantages liés à l’usage pédagogique et réfléchi des technologies en classe, avec en tête la motivation des élèves.