bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Controls on modern alluvial fan processes in the central Alps, northern Italy
Authors: Crosta Giovanni B. , Frattini Paolo 
Published: March 2004

AbstractAlluvial fan development in Alpine areas is often affected by catastrophic sedimentary processes associated with extreme ﬂoods events, causing serious risks for people living on the fans. Hazard assessment in these areas depends on proper identiﬁcation of the dominant sedimentary processes on the fans.Data from a set of 209 alluvial fans from the central Alps of Italy are presented in this paper and analysed with the help of various statistical techniques (linear regression, principal components analysis, cluster analysis, discriminant analysis and logistic regression). First, we used modern sedimentary facies and historical records (ﬂood events since 15th century), to distinguish between the two dominant sedimentary processes on alluvial fans: debris ﬂows and streamﬂows. Then, in order to analyse the main controls on past and present fan processes, 36 morphological, geological and land‐use variables were analysed. As with observations for arid‐environment fans, catchment morphology is the most inﬂuential factor in the study area, whereas geology and land use are minor controls. The role of climatic change and landsliding within the catchments also seems to be very important and is discussed. Statistical techniques also help in differentiating groups of alluvial fans by sets of controlling factors, including stage and type of evolution. Finally, by using discriminant analysis and logistic regression, we classiﬁed alluvial fans according to the dominant sedimentary process, with a success rate ranging between 75 and 92 per cent. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphometric controls and geomorphic responses on fans in the Southern Alps, New Zealand
Authors: de Scally Fes A. , Owens Ian F. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractMorphometric variables associated with 41 debris‐ﬂow and 18 ﬂuvial fans and their basins in the Southern Alps of New Zealand are examined. The results show statistically signiﬁcant differences in the area, maximum elevation, relief and ruggedness (Melton's R) of the basin and the area, gradient, and apex and toe elevations of the fan between debris‐ﬂow and ﬂuvial sites. Concavity of the fan longitudinal proﬁle also differs between the two fan types, although this could not be tested statistically. Most of these morphometric differences reﬂect differences in processes and environmental controls on them. Discriminant analysis indicates that basin area and fan gradient best differentiate the two fan types by process. Moderately strong correlations exist, on both debris‐ﬂow and ﬂuvial fans, between basin area or Melton's R and fan area. Correlations between basin area or Melton's R and fan gradient are generally weaker. The results of this study also indicate that on debris‐ﬂow‐prone fans the fan gradient and basin Melton's R have lower thresholds which overlap little with upper thresholds associated with basins where only streamﬂow reaches the fan. These thresholds may therefore have value in preliminary morphometric assessments of debris‐ﬂow hazard on fans in the Southern Alps. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of a three‐dimensional laser scanner to digitally capture the topography of sand dunes in high spatial resolution
Authors: Nagihara Seiichi , Mulligan Kevin R. , Xiong Wei 
Published: March 2004

AbstractWe herein report the results of a ﬁeld study that was designed to test the feasibility of using ground‐based LIDAR to map the topography of a sand dune in high spatial resolution. A portable Cyrax 2500 three‐dimensional (3D) laser scanner was used to digitally capture the topography of a barchan, roughly 4 m tall and 50 m long, located in the White Sands National Monument, New Mexico. We performed eleven scans around the barchan and obtained the elevation relative to the inter‐dune ﬂat at roughly 1/4 million points on the dune surface. The elevation point data were then interpolated to yield a continuous surface model of the dune topography with c. 10 cm spatial resolution and c. 6 mm position accuracy. The results from this ﬁeld study clearly demonstrate the potential of ground‐based LIDAR as a mapping tool for use in aeolian research and other earth science applications. The 3D surface model of the dune can describe the morphology with hitherto unprecedented detail. Moreover, the surface of the dune is mapped with a minimum of foot trafﬁc on the dune itself. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Processes of silicate karstification associated with pan formation in the Darwin–Koolpinya area of northern Australia
Authors: Borger H. , Mcfarlane M. J. , Ringrose S. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractLyons Lagoon, one of many small pans near Darwin, Northern Australia, occurs in lateritized terrain. Formation by structurally facilitated silicate karstiﬁcation of the parent Cretaceous sandy sediments was earlier proposed. This paper presents the results of thin section microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray study of pan sediments with a view to assessing the extent to which they reﬂect the geomorphological/hydrogeological history. Severe corrosion was found to overprint the impact features of the primary sands, attributed to aggressive leaching and consistent with formation of the depression by karstiﬁcation when the water table was low. Formation of a smectitic matrix is considered to have followed when the water table was high. Upon subsequent lowering of the water level leaching was resumed, altering smectite to kaolinite and resulting in incongruent dissolution of kaolinite to leave a siliceous residuum. At least two cycles of high followed by low water levels are recognized. Such periodic changes of levels are considered essential to pan formation within freely draining lateritic terrain. The processes of pan formation and alteration of pan sediments (essentially residual deposits) is ongoing, biocorrosion being implicated as an important mechanism. Incongruent kaolinite dissolution, to leave a silica residuum, a hitherto apparently unrecognized process, raises the possibility that silcrete may form as a relative accumulation which is synchronous with lateritic leaching in more elevated topographic positions. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An outlier robust hierarchical Bayes model for forecasting: the case of Hong Kong
Authors: Chow William W. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThis paper introduces a Bayesian forecasting model that accommodates innovative outliers. The hierarchical specification of prior distributions allows an identification of observations contaminated by these outliers and endogenously determines the hyperparameters of the Minnesota prior. Estimation and prediction are performed using Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods. The model forecasts the Hong Kong economy more accurately than the standard V AR and performs in line with other complicated BV AR models. It is also shown that the model is capable of finding most of the outliers in various simulation experiments. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Do seasonal unit roots matter for forecasting monthly industrial production?
Authors: Kawasaki Yoshinori , Franses Philip Hans 
Published: March 2004

AbstractWe investigate the seasonal unit root properties of monthly industrial production series for 16 OECD countries within the context of a structural time series model. A basic version of this model assumes that there are 11 such seasonal unit roots. We propose to use model selection criteria (AIC and BIC) to examine if one or more of these are in fact stationary. We generally find that when these criteria indicate that a smaller number of seasonal unit roots can be assumed and hence that some seasonal roots are stationary, the corresponding model also gives more accurate one‐step‐ahead forecasts. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bias‐corrected bootstrap prediction regions for vector autoregression
Authors: Kim Jae H. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThis paper examines small sample properties of alternative bias‐corrected bootstrap prediction regions for the vector autoregressive (VAR) model. Bias‐corrected bootstrap prediction regions are constructed by combining bias‐correction of VAR parameter estimators with the bootstrap procedure. The backward VAR model is used to bootstrap VAR forecasts conditionally on past observations. Bootstrap prediction regions based on asymptotic bias‐correction are compared with those based on bootstrap bias‐correction. Monte Carlo simulation results indicate that bootstrap prediction regions based on asymptotic bias‐correction show better small sample properties than those based on bootstrap bias‐correction for nearly all cases considered. The former provide accurate coverage properties in most cases, while the latter over‐estimate the future uncertainty. Overall, the percentile‐t bootstrap prediction region based on asymptotic bias‐correction is found to provide highly desirable small sample properties, outperforming its alternatives in nearly all cases. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recursive penalized least squares solution for dynamical inverse problems of EEG generation
Authors: Yamashita Okito , Galka Andreas , Ozaki Tohru , Biscay Rolando , Valdes‐Sosa Pedro 
Published: March 2004

AbstractIn the dynamical inverse problem of electroencephalogram (EEG) generation where a specific dynamics for the electrical current distribution is assumed, we can impose general spatiotemporal constraints onto the solution by casting the problem into a state space representation and assuming a specific class of parametric models for the dynamics. The Akaike Bayesian Information Criterion (ABIC), which is based on the Type II likelihood, was used to estimate the parameters and evaluate the model. In addition, dynamic low‐resolution brain electromagnetic tomography (LORETA), a new approach for estimating the current distribution is introduced. A recursive penalized least squares (RPLS) step forms the main element of our implementation. To obtain improved inverse solutions, dynamic LORETA exploits both spatial and temporal information, whereas LORETA uses only spatial information. A considerable improvement in performance compared to LORETA was found when dynamic LORETA was applied to simulated EEG data, and the new method was applied also to clinical EEG data. Hum. Brain Mapp. 21:221–235, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Don't think of a white bear: An fMRI investigation of the effects of sequential instructional sets on cortical activity in a task‐switching paradigm
Authors: Wylie Glenn R. , Javitt Daniel C. , Foxe John J. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractUsing functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), we investigated processes involved in switching between two ongoing tasks, thought to be paradigmatic of executive control processes. Subjects were considerably slower and less accurate when switching between two tasks than when repeatedly carrying out one task, so‐called “switch costs.” Switch costs, however, generally occur only when more than one task is associated with each stimulus type. This has led to the surmise that switch costs may be due largely to ongoing interference from previously learned stimulus‐response (S‐R) associations, which are no longer relevant for the task at hand. We used a paradigm that specifically assessed this hypothesis and investigated three stages. In Stage 1, a single task was carried out with each stimulus type; in Stage 2, a second novel task was introduced for each stimulus type; and in Stage 3, subjects reverted to carrying out solely the original tasks (as in Stage 1). In Stage 1, only one task was associated with each stimulus type, whereas two tasks were associated with each stimulus type in Stages 2 and 3. We compared images obtained during Stage 3 to those obtained during Stage 1 and show that during Stage 3, there was robust activation in the network of areas associated with the Stage 2 tasks, even though these tasks were no longer relevant. Our data strongly suggest that switch costs may derive largely from continued activation of areas associated with carrying out the now‐irrelevant task(s). We posit that a large component of executive control processes involves resolution of competition between potentially relevant tasks. Our data also revealed widespread activation of a frontoparietal network of areas, and we discuss how this network might be involved in mediating this competition. Hum. Brain Mapping 21:279–297, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional coupling of simultaneous electrical and metabolic activity in the human brain
Authors: Oakes Terrence R. , Pizzagalli Diego A. , Hendrick Andrew M. , Horras Katherine A. , Larson Christine L. , Abercrombie Heather C. , Schaefer Stacey M. , Koger John V. , Davidson Richard J. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThe relationships between brain electrical and metabolic activity are being uncovered currently in animal models using invasive methods; however, in the human brain this relationship remains not well understood. In particular, the relationship between noninvasive measurements of electrical activity and metabolism remains largely undefined. To understand better these relations, cerebral activity was measured simultaneously with electroencephalography (EEG) and positron emission tomography using [18f]‐fluoro‐2‐deoxy‐D‐glucose (PET‐FDG) in 12 normal human subjects during rest. Intracerebral distributions of current density were estimated, yielding tomographic maps for seven standard EEG frequency bands. The PET and EEG data were registered to the same space and voxel dimensions, and correlational maps were created on a voxel‐by‐voxel basis across all subjects. For each band, significant positive and negative correlations were found that are generally consistent with extant understanding of EEG band power function. With increasing EEG frequency, there was an increase in the number of positively correlated voxels, whereas the lower α band (8.5–10.0 Hz) was associated with the highest number of negative correlations. This work presents a method for comparing EEG signals with other more traditionally tomographic functional imaging data on a 3‐D basis. This method will be useful in the future when it is applied to functional imaging methods with faster time resolution, such as short half‐life PET blood flow tracers and functional magnetic resonance imaging. Hum. Brain Mapping 21:257–270, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Change processes and ergonomic improvements in small and medium enterprises
Authors: Karltun Johan 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThis article deals with the question of how change processes can create ergonomic improvements in small‐ and medium‐sized industrial enterprises. Drawing on experiences from two described and analyzed case studies in small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) and from ISO 9000 implementation processes previously studied, a hypothetical change framework is suggested through a theory generating approach. It separates change into action‐driven change, which is an active experiential improvement process, and into vision‐driven change, which is of a visionary design character. The ability to bring about problem solving into action was important for the success of the change processes. Furthermore, the nature of different hampering mechanisms concerning ergonomic improvements is discussed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 14: 135–155, 2004.
Employee involvement: Its interaction with advanced manufacturing technologies, quality management, and inter‐firm collaboration
Authors: Bayo‐Moriones Alberto , de Cerio Javier Merino‐Díaz 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThe goal of this article is to assess empirically the connection between different operations management decisions and the use of practices aimed at promoting the involvement of workers in the company. More specifically, the three operations management issues considered are the use of Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, the application of Quality Management tools, and the establishment of close relationships with customers and suppliers. Information relating to an initial sample of 965 Spanish manufacturing plants with at least fifty employees was used. Information was gathered through face‐to‐face interviews with a senior manager of each plant. To achieve the objective of the study, two different analyses were taken. First, the determinants of adoption of employee involvement practices were analyzed. Second, the interactive effects of employee involvement and operation management on firm performance were examined. Results show that Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, Quality Management, and close relationships with other firms have positive effects on the number of employee involvement practices used. However, no interactive effect was detected on firm performance of the simultaneous application of participatory practices and Advanced Manufacturing Technologies, Quality Management, and the establishment of close connections with customers and suppliers. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 14: 117–134, 2004.
System design in normative and actual practice: A comparative study of cognitive task allocation in advanced manufacturing systems
Authors: Papantonopoulos Sotiris 
Published: March 2004

AbstractThe Human Factors Engineering approach to human‐machine system design is based largely on normative design methods. This article suggests that the scope of Human Factors Engineering shall be extended to the descriptive study of system design in actual practice by the application of theoretical frameworks that emphasize the role of the system‐design practitioner and organization in the design process. A comparative study of system design in normative and actual practice was conducted in the design of cognitive task allocation in a Flexible Manufacturing System (FMS) cell. The study showed that the designers' allocation decisions were influenced strongly by factors related to their own design practices, yet exogenous to the tasks to be allocated. Theoretical frameworks from Design Research were applied to illustrate differences between normative and actual practice of system design. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 14: 181–196, 2004.
Macroergonomics as a large work‐system transformation technology
Authors: Kleiner B.M. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractTraditional ergonomics has concentrated on improving such metrics as productivity, health, safety, and quality of work life. While such local improvements are important, increasingly, there is pressure upon ergonomists to achieve global improvement. This article reviews some of the basic concepts behind large‐scale change and takes the position that the macroergonomist is postured uniquely to induce and manage positive change in industrial organizations. While ergonomists focus at the human–machine interface level, organization‐intervention consultants typically focus at the organizational level. Macroergonomists uniquely concentrate their efforts at both levels. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Hum Factors Man 14: 101–115, 2004.
Qualitative research to make practical sense of sustainability in primary health care projects implemented by non‐governmental organizations
Authors: Sarriot Eric G. , Winch Peter J. , Ryan Leo J. , Edison Jay , Bowie Janice , Swedberg Eric , Welch Rikki 
Published: March 2004

AbstractSustainability continues to be a serious concern for Primary Health Care (PHC) interventions targeting the death of millions of children in developing countries each year. Our work with over 30 Non‐Governmental Organizations (NGOs) implementing USAID's Child Survival and Health Grants Program (CSHGP)‐funded projects revealed the need for a study to develop a framework for sustainability assessment in these projects. We surveyed NGO informants and project managers through semi‐structured interviews and questionnaires. This paper summarizes our study findings.The NGOs share key values about sustainability, but are skeptical about approaches perceived as disconnected from field reality. In their experience, sustainable achievements occur through the interaction of capable local stakeholders and communities. This depends strongly on enabling conditions, which NGO projects should advance. Sustainability assessment is multidimensional, value‐based and embeds health within a larger sustainable development perspective. It reduces, but does not eliminate, the unpredictability of long‐term outcomes. It should start with the consideration of the ‘local systems’ which need to develop a common purpose.Our ability to address the complexity inherent to sustainability thinking rests with the validity of the models used to design interventions. A participant, qualitative research approach helped us make sense of sustainability in NGO field practice. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A methodological approach and framework for sustainability assessment in NGO‐implemented primary health care programs
Authors: Sarriot Eric G. , Winch Peter J. , Ryan Leo J. , Bowie Janice , Kouletio Michelle , Swedberg Eric , LeBan Karen , Edison Jay , Welch Rikki , Pacqué Michel C. 
Published: March 2004

AbstractAn estimated 10.8 million children under 5 continue to die each year in developing countries from causes easily treatable or preventable. Non governmental organizations (NGOs) are frontline implementers of low‐cost and effective child health interventions, but their progress toward sustainable child health gains is a challenge to evaluate. This paper presents the Child Survival Sustainability Assessment (CSSA) methodology—a framework and process—to map progress towards sustainable child health from the community level and upward. The CSSA was developed with NGOs through a participatory process of research and dialogue.Commitment to sustainability requires a systematic and systemic consideration of human, social and organizational processes beyond a purely biomedical perspective. The CSSA is organized around three interrelated dimensions of evaluation: (1) health and health services; (2) capacity and viability of local organizations; (3) capacity of the community in its social ecological context. The CSSA uses a participatory, action‐planning process, engaging a ‘local system’ of stakeholders in the contextual definition of objectives and indicators. Improved conditions measured in the three dimensions correspond to progress toward a sustainable health situation for the population. This framework opens new opportunities for evaluation and research design and places sustainability at the center of primary health care programming. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The human perspective on health care reform: coping with diabetes in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Hopkinson Botagoz , Balabanova Dina , McKee Martin , Kutzin Joseph 
Published: March 2004

AbstractHealth systems world wide are confronted by the challenge of rising levels of chronic diseases. Yet existing approaches to health system analysis often fail to capture the complexity of the responses required to address this challenge. In this paper we describe the results of a pilot study using a rapid appraisal technique to assess the performance of the health care system in Kyrgyzstan, a former Soviet central Asian republic. The study focuses on diabetes, a condition whose effective management requires a coordinated response involving many components of the health care system. The study sets out a conceptual framework in which the system is seen from the perspectives of users, health professionals and policy‐makers. It sees the effective delivery of health care as dependent on appropriate investment in human, physical, intellectual and social resources. The study reveals important weaknesses in all of these areas, although it also notes that current policies, while constrained by the legacy of the past and by limited resources, are beginning to tackle them. This pilot study indicates that rapid appraisal, using a condition such as diabetes, where those affected can be easily identified, offers a means of gaining important insights into a health care system. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.