scholarly journals Density of the Waterborne Parasite Ceratomyxa shasta and Its Biological Effects on Salmon

2012 ◽  
Vol 78 (10) ◽  
pp. 3724-3731 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sascha L. Hallett ◽  
R. Adam Ray ◽  
Charlene N. Hurst ◽  
Richard A. Holt ◽  
Gerri R. Buckles ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Parasite Density ◽  
Water Samples ◽  
Oncorhynchus Tshawytscha ◽  
Biological Effects ◽  
Monitoring Program ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Degree Days ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Klamath River ◽  
Specific Parasite

ABSTRACTThe myxozoan parasiteCeratomyxa shastais a significant pathogen of juvenile salmonids in the Pacific Northwest of North America and is limiting recovery of Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) and coho (O. kisutch) salmon populations in the Klamath River. We conducted a 5-year monitoring program that comprised concurrent sentinel fish exposures and water sampling across 212 river kilometers of the Klamath River. We used percent mortality and degree-days to death to measure disease severity in fish. We analyzed water samples using quantitative PCR and Sanger sequencing, to determine total parasite density and relative abundance ofC. shastagenotypes, which differ in their pathogenicity to salmonids. We detected the parasite throughout the study zone, but parasite density and genetic composition fluctuated spatially and temporally. Chinook and coho mortality increased with density of their specific parasite genotype, but mortality-density thresholds and time to death differed. A lethality threshold of 40% mortality was reached with 10 spores liter−1for Chinook but only 5 spores liter−1for coho. Parasite density did not affect degree-days to death for Chinook but was negatively correlated for coho, and there was wider variation among coho individuals. These differences likely reflect the different life histories and genetic heterogeneity of the salmon populations. Direct quantification of the density of host-specific parasite genotypes in water samples offers a management tool for predicting host population-level impacts.

SmartWoW – constructing a tool for knowledge work performance analysis

2015 ◽  
Vol 64 (4) ◽  
pp. 479-498 ◽  
Author(s):  
Miikka Palvalin ◽  
Maiju Vuolle ◽  
Aki Jääskeläinen ◽  
Harri Laihonen ◽  
Antti Lönnqvist
Keyword(s):  
Work Performance ◽  
Knowledge Work ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Work Practices ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Individual Level ◽  
New Ways Of Working ◽  
Novel Approach

Purpose – New Ways of Working (NewWoW) refers to a novel approach for improving the performance of knowledge work. The purpose of this paper is to seek innovative solutions concerning facilities, information technology tools and work practices in order to be able to “work smarter, not harder.” In order to develop work practices toward the NewWoW mode there is a need for an analytical management tool that would help assess the status of the organization’s current work practices and demonstrate the impacts of development initiatives. This paper introduces such a tool. Design/methodology/approach – Constructive research approach was chosen to guide the development of the Smart ways of working (SmartWoW) tool. The tool was designed on the basis of previous knowledge work performance literature as well as on interviews in two knowledge-intensive organizations. The usefulness of the tool was verified by applying it in four organizations. Findings – SmartWoW is a compact questionnaire tool for analyzing and measuring knowledge work at the individual level. The questionnaire consists of four areas: work environment, personal work practices, well-being at work and productivity. As SmartWoW is a standardized tool its results are comparable between organizations. Research limitations/implications – SmartWoW was designed a pragmatic managerial tool. It is considered possible that it can be valuable as a research instrument as well but the current limited amount of collected data does not yet facilitate determining its usefulness from that perspective. Originality/value – This paper makes a contribution to the existing literature on knowledge work measurement and management by introducing an analytical tool which takes into account the NewWoW perspective.

Social appreciation for the improvement of tourism management of 20th-century heritage: a methodological proposal

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Gema Ramírez-Guerrero ◽  
Javier García-Onetti ◽  
Juan Adolfo Chica-Ruiz ◽  
Manuel Arcíla-Garrido
Keyword(s):  
20Th Century ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Analysis Tool ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Cultural Assets ◽  
Current State ◽  
The Social ◽  
Depth Analysis ◽  
The Creation

Purpose This paper attempts to fill the gap that exists in research regarding 20th-century heritage and its social appreciation. The purpose of this paper is to explore different ways of evaluating the heritage value and tourism potential and to propose an innovative model validated in the Zarzuela Hippodrome as an example of cultural asset from 20th century with important economic, social, cultural, aesthetic and architectural aspects. Design/methodology/approach This study opted for an interpretation of heritage from an ecosystem, integrating and global paradigm, understanding the asset as a set of resources that interact with each other, generating a common and enriched tourist experience among all the elements that make it up. From this perspective, it is conceived that by modifying one of the elements, the whole (tourist) ecosystem will be equally influenced. On the other side, it was incorporated non-parametric techniques based on the implementation of surveys for the validation of the tool to the case study of the Zarzuela hippodrome. Findings The results suggest that the hippodrome's internal values have been evaluated very positively, while its external values are low. Through this study, the paper has identified several weaknesses that impede its functioning as a viable “tourist product.” The distance from the city center, the lack of available information and the scarce diffusion and tourism promotion are its main weaknesses. The proposed analysis tool reveals the importance of the active participation of visitors to evaluate cultural assets through the combination of aspects related to the conservation of cultural assets and, in turn, elements that encourage their commodification as tourist products, break down barriers between these two disciplines. Research limitations/implications The management tool proposed in this study can be used to underpin the creation of tourism experiences in cultural or heritage assets by diagnosing the current state of its tourist potential, quantifying its value in relation to the visitors’ perception and making visible those problematic aspects to develop actions to solve them. Although the present study is support for future research, as well as for improving the marketing of heritage in tourist settings, an in-depth analysis of the technical elements of heritage, as well as of its intervention (if applicable), will be necessary for the managers who want to use the tool. Social implications One of the most differentiating characteristics between the construction typology of 20th-century historical buildings is perhaps the scarcity of decorative ornamentation, with exposed concrete being the main surface coating. Many of these constructions have an important cultural and historical relevance, however, the social perception, as regards its consideration as architectural and artistic heritage seems to reflect discordant aspects. This study provides support as a decision-making tool to determine the existing valuation of a building and how to enhance it. Originality/value This study takes steps toward the creation of a model that supports decision-makers and owners of cultural assets through a measurement system that makes it possible to quantify and determine the current state of tourism use through the social evaluation of heritage criteria. It defines which are the elements that favor the resilience of the property or, on the contrary, which are those that undermine its enhancement.

Modern nanobiotechnologies for efficient detection and remediation of mercury

Sensor Review ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mulayam Singh Gaur ◽  
Rajni Yadav ◽  
Mamta Kushwah ◽  
Anna Nikolaevna Berlina
Keyword(s):  
Heavy Metals ◽  
Water Samples ◽  
Low Cost ◽  
High Sensitivity ◽  
Environmental Water ◽  
Mercury Ions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Efficient Detection ◽  
Sensitivity And Selectivity ◽  
Selection Of

Purpose This information will be useful in the selection of materials and technology for the detection and removal of mercury ions at a low cost and with high sensitivity and selectivity. The purpose of this study is to provide the useful information for selection of materials and technology to detect and remove the mercury ions from water with high sensitivity and selectivity. The purpose of this study is to provide the useful information for selection of materials and technology to detect and remove the mercury ions from water with high sensitivity and selectivity. Design/methodology/approach Different nano- and bio-materials allowed for the development of a variety of biosensors – colorimetric, chemiluminescent, electrochemical, whole-cell and aptasensors – are described. The materials used for their development also make it possible to use them in removing heavy metals, which are toxic contaminants, from environmental water samples. Findings This review focuses on different technologies, tools and materials for mercury (heavy metals) detection and remediation to environmental samples. Originality/value This review gives up-to-date and systemic information on modern nanotechnology methods for heavy metal detection. Different recognition molecules and nanomaterials have been discussed for remediation to water samples. The present review may provide valuable information to researchers regarding novel mercury ions detection sensors and encourage them for further research/development.

Backcasting as a strategic management tool for meeting VUCA challenges

2019 ◽  
Vol 12 (2) ◽  
pp. 298-312 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kent Thorén ◽  
Martin Vendel
Keyword(s):  
Strategic Management ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Strategy Development ◽  
Strategy Formation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Major Transitions ◽  
Strategy Process ◽  
Feasible Path ◽  
Core Idea ◽  
Interactive Workshop

Purpose Backcasting helps managers involve and align the organization throughout a strategy process. Its core idea is creating a logical path from a depicted future back to the present, to share, analyze and manage strategic challenges. Still its use in strategic management is under-researched. The purpose of this paper is to verify the relevance and validity of backcasting as a strategic management tool. It also analyzes and structures knowledge about backcasting and its practical application in strategic management. Design/methodology/approach This paper employs desktop research method to outline the benefits and limitations of backcasting for strategy formation under VUCA conditions. Findings Backcasting can help organizations overcome cognitive barriers and broaden the scope of options when analyzing future positions. The research provides insights regarding the potential and limitations of backcasting when addressing uncertainty and its drivers. For instance, it helps managers to assess and align visions; increase the understanding and clarity regarding complex dependencies; as well as improve strategic agility. Practical implications Backcasting is exceptionally useful for investigating possible futures and alternative paths to it. Backcasting is an interactive workshop-based method that challenges prevailing mindsets by assuming we are in the future, looking back towards today to find a feasible path when major transitions are necessary. With it, managers can deal with even the most uncertain decisions in a structured manner. Originality/value Backcasting for many reasons has a great potential as a tool for strategy development. It has been successfully applied in other fields but only to a limited extent in business. This paper formally examines its applicability in this context and demonstrates its relevance for dealing with VUCA challenges.

scholarly journals Job satisfaction and work–family policies through work-family enrichment

2018 ◽  
Vol 33 (4/5) ◽  
pp. 386-402 ◽  
Author(s):  
Angel Martinez-Sanchez ◽  
Manuela Perez-Perez ◽  
Maria-Jose Vela-Jimenez ◽  
Silvia Abella-Garces
Keyword(s):  
Job Satisfaction ◽  
Organizational Commitment ◽  
Work And Family ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Family Policies ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Different Dimensions ◽  
Work Family ◽  
Work Family Enrichment ◽  
Family Enrichment

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyze the effect of a bundle of work–family policies on employee’s job satisfaction and (affective) organizational commitment, by using work–family enrichment and conflict as explanatory.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical study is conducted with a sample of 322 employees from 30 Spanish firms that have been granted with the “Flexible Firm Award” or have been certified as “Family Responsible Firms.” Structural equation modeling is used to test hypotheses.FindingsThe results show that the higher the use of work–family policies the more positive effects on work–family enrichment and conflict, and that job satisfaction is positively related to (effective) organizational commitment.Research limitations/implicationsThis is a cross-sectional study which may limit the establishment of causal relationships.Practical implicationsWork–family policies may constitute a relevant management tool to balance work and family life by making employees more interested in their jobs, enhancing their well-being and reducing the conflicts between work and family domains. The positive role of work–family enrichment contributes to enhance employees’ job satisfaction and, at the same time, to increase their organizational commitment. Managers should pay attention at how work–family policies are justified because they may influence differently on their outcomes on satisfaction and commitment.Originality/valueThere are two main original contributions of the paper. First, the authors study the joint effect of work–family policies on different dimensions of enrichment and conflict. Second, the authors analyze the relationship between different dimensions of enrichment and conflict on job satisfaction and organizational commitment.

scholarly journals Global Spread of Mutant PfCRT and Its Pleiotropic Impact on Plasmodium falciparum Multidrug Resistance and Fitness

mBio ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 10 (2) ◽  
Author(s):  
Satish K. Dhingra ◽  
Stanislaw J. Gabryszewski ◽  
Jennifer L. Small-Saunders ◽  
Tomas Yeo ◽  
Philipp P. Henrich ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Plasmodium Falciparum ◽  
Multidrug Resistance ◽  
Treatment Options ◽  
Specific Treatment ◽  
Whole Genome Sequence ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Allelic Distribution ◽  
Population Structures ◽  
Allele Specific ◽  
Specific Parasite

Our study defines the allelic distribution of pfcrt, an important mediator of multidrug resistance in Plasmodium falciparum, in Africa and Asia. We leveraged whole-genome sequence analysis and gene editing to demonstrate how current drug combinations can select different allelic variants of this gene and shape region-specific parasite population structures. We document the ability of PfCRT mutations to modulate parasite susceptibility to current antimalarials in dissimilar, pfcrt allele-specific ways. This study underscores the importance of actively monitoring pfcrt genotypes to identify emerging patterns of multidrug resistance and help guide region-specific treatment options.

Factors influencing Midwestern grain farmers’ use of risk management tools

2019 ◽  
Vol 79 (2) ◽  
pp. 192-203
Author(s):  
Brian K. Coffey ◽  
Ted C. Schroeder
Keyword(s):  
Risk Management ◽  
Management Practices ◽  
Mail Survey ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Farm Size ◽  
Management Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Multinomial Logit Regression ◽  
Decision Choices ◽  
Grain Farmers

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify the relationships between grain farm and farmer profiles and their respective choices to use forward pricing techniques and revenue protection crop insurance to manage risk.Design/methodology/approachAn e-mail survey of Midwestern grain farmers elicited farmer demographic information, farm profile, risk attitudes and farmer use of forward pricing and revenue protection insurance. Responses regarding use of risk management tools were compiled as choices to use possible bundles of tools to account for simultaneous nature of the decision. Choices to use bundles of tools were used as the independent variable categories in a multinomial logit regression. Regressors were relevant data collected from the survey.FindingsFarm size, using a market advisory service, and being a technology adopter are the most important factors in predicting risk management tool use by grain farmers. Farmers tend to use forward pricing and revenue protection insurance in combination. Large farms are more likely to use forward pricing tools.Practical implicationsResults provide researchers, extension professionals and risk management specialists with a current understanding of how farm and farmer characteristics relate to use of risk management tools. The authors also elaborate on findings to provide guidance for future risk management research.Originality/valueThe survey covered 9 Midwestern states and 648 grain farmers. The survey results update understanding of grain farmers’ risk management practices. The empirical approach treats risk management decisions to use available tools as simultaneous, which recent literature suggests is more appropriate than earlier approaches.

Using enterprise social networks as a knowledge management tool in higher education

2017 ◽  
Vol 47 (4) ◽  
pp. 555-570 ◽  
Author(s):  
Niall Corcoran ◽  
Aidan Duane
Keyword(s):  
Higher Education ◽  
Social Networks ◽  
Social Media ◽  
Knowledge Sharing ◽  
Conceptual Model ◽  
Higher Education Institutions ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Enterprise Social Networks ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The management of organisational knowledge and the promotion of staff knowledge sharing are largely neglected in higher education institutions. The purpose of this study is to examine how enterprise social networks can enable staff knowledge sharing in communities of practice in that context. Design/methodology/approach The study is framed as an Action Research project, covering three cycles over a 12-month period. During the Diagnosing phase, a conceptual model was developed for empirical testing. Data were collected through 30 semi-structured interviews and a number of focus groups. This was supplemented by content analysis and reflective journaling. Findings The findings support the conceptual model and provide insight into the antecedents necessary for the creation of an enterprise social network-enabled knowledge-sharing environment, the motivators for and barriers to participation, and the perceived organisational and individual benefits of increased staff knowledge-sharing activity. Research limitations/implications As the study has a higher education focus, all of the findings may not be generalizable to other types of organisation. Further development of the conceptual model and testing in other contextual settings will yield greater generalizability. Practical implications A number of findings have practical implications for the management of higher education institutions, such as the evidence of a divide between faculty and other staff. In general, the study findings provide an opportunity for educationalists to better understand the scope and impact of employing social media platforms for knowledge sharing. Originality/value This paper adds to the growing body of work on organisational implementations of social media, and should be of interest to practitioners and researchers undertaking similar projects.

scholarly journals A real option approach for the valuation of switching output flexibility in residential property investment

2018 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 133-151 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kwabena Mintah ◽  
David Higgins ◽  
Judith Callanan
Keyword(s):  
Real Options ◽  
Real Option ◽  
Economic Value ◽  
Management Tool ◽  
Residential Property ◽  
Option Valuation ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Real Option Analysis ◽  
Real Option Valuation ◽  
Mixed Use

Purpose Uncertainties in residential property investment performance require that real estate assets are designed in a flexible manner to respond to impacts of market dynamics. Though estimating the cost of flexibility is straightforward, assessing the economic value of flexibility is not. The purpose of this study is to explore the potential practical application of real option analysis to determine the economic value of a switching output flexibility embedded in a residential property investment in Australia. The study involves the exploration of an optimal strategy for investment in a residential development through real option analysis and valuation of a mixed use investment. Design/methodology/approach The real option valuation model developed by McDonald and Siegel (1986) is adopted for the evaluation because the switching output flexibility is likened to a perpetual American call option with dividend payout. Findings Through real option analysis, the economic value of switching output flexibility of the mixed use building was determined to be higher than the initial upfront costs. Moreover, a payoff of about $4million was determined to be the value of the switching output flexibility, therefore justifying upfront investments in flexibility as an uncertainty and risk management tool. Practical implications This application is an important demonstration of the practical use of options pricing techniques (real options analysis) and delivers further evidence needed to support the adoption of real option valuation in practice. Flexibility can also enhance risks and uncertainty management in residential property investment better than the adjustment of discount rates. Originality/value There is limited evidence on the use of real options techniques for the valuation of switching output flexibility in practice, and this comes as an original application; both the case study and data are all initial applications of switching flexibility in the Australian property market.

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