bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Electromagnetism-Like Algorithm with Tabu Search to Scheduling
Authors: Behnamian J.
Published: February 2015

Most research in production scheduling is concerned with the optimization of a single criterion. However, the analysis of the performance of a schedule often involves more than one aspect and therefore requires a multi-objective treatment. Therefore, in this research, the author makes use of one of the multiple objective decision-making methods, the min-max technique, to develop a new hybrid metaheuristic for solving sequence-dependent setup time hybrid flowshop scheduling problems with consideration of two performance measures, namely the makespan and the sum of the earliness and tardiness, simultaneously. In formulation of min-max type, the decision maker can have the flexibility of mixed use of weights and distance parameter in expressing desired improvement on produced Pareto optimal solutions. The proposed hybrid approach comprises two components: an electromagnetism-like algorithm and a tabu search to improve it. An extensive computational experience is carried out in order to analyze the different parameters of the combined algorithm. The comparison in the chapter shows the proposal to be very efficient for different structure instances.
A Hybrid GA-GSA Algorithm for Optimizing the Performance of an Industrial System by Utilizing Uncertain Data
Authors: Garg Harish
Published: February 2015

The main objective of this chapter is to present a novel hybrid GA-GSA algorithm to permit the reliability analyst to increase the performance of the system by utilizing the uncertain data. Since the analysis based on the collected data mostly contains a lot of uncertainties, the corresponding results obtained do not tell the exact nature of the system. Therefore, to handle this issue, the proposed algorithm maximizes the Reliability, Availability, and Maintainability (RAM) parameters simultaneously for increasing the performance and productivity of the system. The conflicts between the objectives are resolved with the help of intuitionistic fuzzy set theory. The optimal design parameters corresponding to each component of the system are evaluated by solving a nonlinear optimization problem and compared their results with other methods. The stability of these optimal parameters is justified by means of pooled t-test statistics. Based on these optimal design parameters, an investigation has been done for finding the most critical component of the system for saving money, manpower, and time, as well as increasing the performance of the system. Finally, to illustrate the methodology, a numerical example is studied.
Convergence towards Excellence Diversity
Authors: Ochôa Paula , Pinto Leonor Gaspar
Published: February 2015

This chapter extends current discussions about excellence and proposes a look beyond the dominant line of e-resources research where transition cycles in information management, knowledge management, competences management, and performance management are the multi-contextual value creators for individuals and organizations. This is done by an extensive review of European policies (single information market, agenda for culture) in two steps: first, excellence triggers are analyzed, discussing digital agenda and consumer culture. Next, an integrated model of e-resources excellence management is presented. It locates the argument for the importance of convergence in excellence diversity where e-resources values are uniquely and contextually interpreted, requiring understanding, and assesses customer consumption processes as an experiential, social, and cultural phenomenon. A variety of informational behaviors, skills, and activities is the measure of the complexity of personal values possibilities and of excellence framework development, maturity, and sustainability.
The Role of Brand Loyalty on CRM Performance
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: February 2015

This chapter introduces the framework and causal model of customer value, customer satisfaction, brand loyalty, and customer relationship management performance in terms of the innovative manufacturing and marketing solutions. It argues that dimensions of customer value, customer satisfaction, and brand loyalty have mediated positive effect on customer relationship management performance. Furthermore, brand loyalty positively mediates the relationships between customer value and customer relationship management performance and between customer satisfaction and customer relationship management performance. Customer value is positively correlated with customer satisfaction. Understanding the theoretical learning is beneficial for organizations aiming to increase customer relationship management performance and achieve business goals.
How Customer Knowledge Management Is Becoming a Dominant Industry Trait
Authors: Ahmad A. F. Wazir , Akbar Mohammad Muzahid
Published: February 2015

Customer Knowledge Management (CKM) has evolved from Collaborative Knowledge Management Practices (CKMP). The last two decades of twentieth century were marked by efficiency in management that created a global awareness regarding efficient use of resources and cost minimization. This awareness was influenced by Japanese concepts like Kan Ban and Kaizen; later on, these ideas were appreciated and adopted by their American counterparts both in academia as well as in industries. Presumably, CKM movement will heavily influence the business world as the focus shifts to utmost use of intangible assets instead of the optimal use of tangible resources (which used to be the motto of the business world in the last century). CKM is often regarded as “an integrated knowledge management practice” and operates by incorporating principles of Knowledge Management (KM) and Customer Relationship Management (CRM), but it moves far beyond to ensure a higher level of mutual (customer-producer) value creation.
How Consumer Mindset Response and Long-Term Marketing Effectiveness Differ in Emerging vs. Mature Markets
Authors: Erguncu Selin , Yildirim Gokhan
Published: February 2015

This chapter develops a conceptual framework based on different dynamics in consumer attitudes. Empirical analysis seeks to illustrate this framework with emerging and mature market data for the same brands over the same time period. The results generate important implications, especially for brand management in emerging markets. First, the emotional brand connection, judged so important in mature markets, is substantially less important than securing the brand's spot in the consumers' consideration set. Second, emerging market consumers are more willing to seek out distribution channels for their brands, reducing the “compromised choice” due to less-than-perfect distribution coverage. Third, price is a double-edged sword in emerging markets: a high price benefits sales through consideration but hurts sales through liking. The net impact of these influences shapes the long-run sales effects of marketing. In particular, long-run advertising and price elasticity is higher, while long-run distribution elasticity is lower in emerging markets compared to mature markets.
Anatomy of Green Marketing
Authors: Okan Elif Yolbulan , Yalman Neva
Published: February 2015

There has been much discussion since the late 1980s concerning “green” issues. Society is becoming increasingly concerned with the rapid depletion of the world's resources and the increasing rate that the environment is being polluted by our activities. Since environmental improvement and competitiveness are defined as the new paradigm for the world economy, green marketing has been one of the most popular topics in the business arena. This chapter aims to examine this concept from several different perspectives. The first section summarizes the evolution of the green marketing concept with the help of theoretical underpinnings. The criticisms regarding green marketing are also discussed. The second section investigates green consumer behavior. In order to position green product offerings, companies need to understand the characteristics and buying patterns of different segments of the green consumer. This section helps to identify the Turkish green consumer. The language and appeals used in environmental communication are very important in changing attitudes. Thus, the third section focuses on the effectiveness of green messages. In the last part of the chapter, the Gezi Park protests from Turkey are examined as an important case with political, economic, social and international impacts as well as its triggering effect of leading to mindful consumption. This chapter explores existing literature on an interest provoking subject--green marketing--as well as integrating theoretical concepts with a recent social event from an emerging market with a case study approach.
A Rhetoric on Diversity and Marketing Theory
Authors: El-Bassiouny Noha
Published: February 2015

The purpose of this chapter is to present a highlight of how Islam, and thereby Islamic marketing as an emerging research domain, fits within mainstream marketing thought given the marginalization of some ethnic groups and the calls for diversity therein. The chapter argues that the Islamic paradigm can integrate within marketing theory in light of the critical marketing discourse, whilst creating a “theistic science” that links to Islamic civilization and builds a bridge to the future of this science.
Exploring Marketing Theories to Model Business Web Service Procurement Behavior
Authors: Strang Kenneth David
Published: February 2015

This chapter provides literature-grounded definitions of contemporary Web services and marketing theories, which can model business demand through procurement decision-making behavior. First, the literature was reviewed to identify contemporary Web 2.0 and Web service ontology alongside marketing theories, which can describe individual decision making in an organizational or personal context. The Web services included cloud computing, social networking, data storage, security, and hosted applications. Then selected models for assessing procurement decision-making behavior were discussed in more detail. The constructed grounded theory method was applied by interviewing Chief Information Officers (CIO) at large organizations across four industries in the USA: healthcare, higher education, energy creation, and banking. The purpose was to determine which marketing theories could effectively model their Web service procurement behavior. An empirical procurement decision-making model was developed and fitted with data collected from the participants. The results indicated that Web service procurement decision-making behavior in businesses could easily be modeled, and this was ratified by the CIOs. The chapter proposes a state-of-the-art ontology and model for continued empirical research about organizational procurement decision-making behavior for Web services or other products.
Superfluous or Moderation?
Authors: Zakaria Norhayati , Wan-Ismail Wan-Nurisma Ayu , Abdul-Talib Asmat-Nizam
Published: February 2015

In this chapter, the authors focus on the aspects of religious belief that may affect consumption behavior. Previous studies have clearly stated that the study of religion's influence on consumer behavior is still under-researched (Lindridge, 2005; Mokhlis, 2009, 2010). The premise lies in the view that culture is a way of life, and thus, the authors explore whether or not that suggests the same for religion, and if it is, how does religion predict the conspicuous behavior of people towards the purchase of luxury goods? In specific, the authors are interested in exploring the level and intensity of religiosity on conspicuous consumption. Therefore, it is significant to study “religiosity” as one of the predictive factors of a consumerism culture that may help explain why people engage in conspicuous consumption. The chapter provides a concluding remark by highlighting the practical aspects on domestic or international marketers who wish to market their luxury products in Malaysia.
Re-Conceptualizing Relational Integrated Marketing Communications from the Perspective of Social CRM
Authors: Yoon Kanghyun , Sims Jeanetta D.
Published: February 2015

As a new emerging trend, social Customer Relationship Management (social CRM) can be defined as the business practice of promoting voluntary customer engagement activities driven by social media into the value creation process in order to build long-term co-beneficial relationships with target customers as the ultimate end-goal of customer relationship management. Following the spirit of social CRM, this chapter is intended to propose conceptual guidelines for the design of effective relational integrated marketing communications strategies, including message and media strategies, with particular focus on the promotion of opinion leaders' voluntary engaged efforts with others in a typical social network setting. By implanting the power of social media in relational integrated marketing communications strategies, marketers are able to put the “relationship” back into CRM in order to restore its true meaning – building better long-term relationships with customers.
Emerging Technologies for Neuro-Rehabilitation after Stroke
Authors: Olaya Andrés F. Ruiz , Delis Alberto López
Published: February 2015

Rehabilitation of motor function has been linked to motor learning that occurs during repetitive, frequent, and intensive training. Neuro-rehabilitation is based on the assumption that motor learning principles can be applied to motor recovery after injury, and that training can lead to permanent improvements in motor function in patients with motor deficits. The emergent research field of Rehabilitation Engineering may provide promised technologies for neuro-rehabilitation therapies, exploiting the motor learning and neural plasticity concepts. Among those promising technologies are robotic exoskeletons and active FES-assisted systems, which could provide repetitive training-based therapies and have been developed to aid or control the upper and lower limb movements in response to user's intentionality. This chapter describes those emerging technologies to enhance the neuro-rehabilitation processes of motor-disabled people at upper limb level and presents how a natural control to command above external devices from Electromyography could be implemented.
Assistive Systems for the Workplace
Authors: Korn Oliver , Funk Markus , Schmidt Albrecht
Published: February 2015

Recent advances in motion recognition allow the development of Context-Aware Assistive Systems (CAAS) for industrial workplaces that go far beyond the state of the art: they can capture a user's movement in real-time and provide adequate feedback. Thus, CAAS can address important questions, like Which part is assembled next? Where do I fasten it? Did an error occur? Did I process the part in time? These new CAAS can also make use of projectors to display the feedback within the corresponding area on the workspace (in-situ). Furthermore, the real-time analysis of work processes allows the implementation of motivating elements (gamification) into the repetitive work routines that are common in manual production. In this chapter, the authors first describe the relevant backgrounds from industry, computer science, and psychology. They then briefly introduce a precedent implementation of CAAS and its inherent problems. The authors then provide a generic model of CAAS and finally present a revised and improved implementation.
A Review for Unobtrusive COTS EEG-Based Assistive Technology
Authors: Lau Sian Lun , Ahmed Afzal , Ruslan Zhunussov
Published: February 2015

People with movement disabilities will not be able to move around as conveniently and easily as other people. One of the solutions that can help them is assistive technology based on Electroencephalography (EEG) signals. Brain Computer Interface (BCI) systems record EEG signals and perform interpretations that can capture the “thoughts” of their users. Two possible application domains are mobility and emotion detection. Besides this, it is also essential to develop these assistive technologies to be unobtrusive and intuitive to use. Therefore, the authors envision the use of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf (COTS) EEG devices as a feasible and affordable solution. In this chapter, recent work, which utilises COTS EGG-based devices to provide solutions for the two selected application domains, is presented and discussed.
Activation of Human γδ T Cells by Cytosolic Interactions of BTN3A1 with Soluble Phosphoantigens and the Cytoskeletal Adaptor Periplakin
Authors: Rhodes David A. , Chen Hung-Chang , Price Amanda J. , Keeble Anthony H. , Davey Martin S. , James Leo C. , Eberl Matthias , Trowsdale John
Published: January 2015

The three butyrophilin BTN3A molecules, BTN3A1, BTN3A2, and BTN3A3, are members of the B7/butyrophilin-like group of Ig superfamily receptors, which modulate the function of T cells. BTN3A1 controls activation of human Vγ9/Vδ2 T cells by direct or indirect presentation of self and nonself phosphoantigens (pAg). We show that the microbial metabolite (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate binds to the intracellular B30.2 domain of BTN3A1 with an affinity of 1.1 μM, whereas the endogenous pAg isopentenyl pyrophosphate binds with an affinity of 627 μM. Coculture experiments using knockdown cell lines showed that in addition to BTN3A1, BTN3A2 and BTN3A3 transmit activation signals to human γδ T cells in response to (E)-4-hydroxy-3-methyl-but-2-enyl pyrophosphate and the aminobisphosphonate drug zoledronate that causes intracellular accumulation of isopentenyl pyrophosphate. The plakin family member periplakin, identified in yeast two-hybrid assays, interacted with a membrane-proximal di-leucine motif, located proximal to the B30.2 domain in the BTN3A1 cytoplasmic tail. Periplakin did not interact with BTN3A2 or BTN3A3, which do not contain the di-leucine motif. Re-expression into a BTN3A1 knockdown line of wild-type BTN3A1, but not of a variant lacking the periplakin binding motif, BTN3A1Δexon5, restored γδ T cell responses, demonstrating a functional role for periplakin interaction. These data, together with the widespread expression in epithelial cells, tumor tissues, and macrophages detected using BTN3A antiserum, are consistent with complex functions for BTN3A molecules in tissue immune surveillance and infection, linking the cell cytoskeleton to γδ T cell activation by indirectly presenting pAg to the Vγ9/Vδ2 TCR.
CD40 Is Required for Protective Immunity against Liver Stage Plasmodium Infection
Authors: Murray Sara A. , Mohar Isaac , Miller Jessica L. , Brempelis Katherine J. , Vaughan Ashley M. , Kappe Stefan H. I. , Crispe Ian N.
Published: February 2015

The costimulatory molecule CD40 enhances immunity through several distinct roles in T cell activation and T cell interaction with other immune cells. In a mouse model of immunity to liver stage Plasmodium infection, CD40 was critical for the full maturation of liver dendritic cells, accumulation of CD8+ T cells in the liver, and protective immunity induced by immunization with the Plasmodium yoelii fabb/f− genetically attenuated parasite. Using mixed adoptive transfers of polyclonal wild-type and CD40-deficient CD8+ T cells into wild-type and CD40-deficient hosts, we evaluated the contributions to CD8+ T cell immunity of CD40 expressed on host tissues including APC, compared with CD40 expressed on the CD8+ T cells themselves. Most of the effects of CD40 could be accounted for by expression in the T cells’ environment, including the accumulation of large numbers of CD8+ T cells in the livers of immunized mice. Thus, protective immunity generated during immunization with fabb/f− was largely dependent on effective APC licensing via CD40 signaling.
IFN-β Treatment Requires B Cells for Efficacy in Neuroautoimmunity
Authors: Schubert Ryan D. , Hu Yang , Kumar Gaurav , Szeto Spencer , Abraham Peter , Winderl Johannes , Guthridge Joel M. , Pardo Gabriel , Dunn Jeffrey , Steinman Lawrence , Axtell Robert C.
Published: February 2015

IFN-β remains the most widely prescribed treatment for relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. Despite widespread use of IFN-β, the therapeutic mechanism is still partially understood. Particularly, the clinical relevance of increased B cell activity during IFN-β treatment is unclear. In this article, we show that IFN-β pushes some B cells into a transitional, regulatory population that is a critical mechanism for therapy. IFN-β treatment increases the absolute number of regulatory CD19+CD24++CD38++ transitional B cells in peripheral blood relative to treatment-naive and Copaxone-treated patients. In addition, we found that transitional B cells from both healthy controls and IFN-β–treated MS patients are potent producers of IL-10, and that the capability of IFN-β to induce IL-10 is amplified when B cells are stimulated. Similar changes are seen in mice with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis. IFN-β treatment increases transitional and regulatory B cell populations, as well as IL-10 secretion in the spleen. Furthermore, we found that IFN-β increases autoantibody production, implicating humoral immune activation in B cell regulatory responses. Finally, we demonstrate that IFN-β therapy requires immune-regulatory B cells by showing that B cell–deficient mice do not benefit clinically or histopathologically from IFN-β treatment. These results have significant implications for the diagnosis and treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis.
Study of Processing Conditions on the Forming of Ribbed Features Using Randomly Oriented Strands Thermoplastic Composites
Authors: LeBlanc Dominic , Landry Benoit , Levy Arthur , Hubert Pascal , Roy Steven , Yousefpour Ali , Quinlan Erin
Published: January 2015

Compression molding of randomly oriented strands (ROS) composites offers the possibility to manufacture complex parts with a fast processing cycle. In this paper, effects of pressure, strand size, temperature, and material placement in the mold cavity on the quality of a T-shape part
were studied experimentally with carbon/polyether ether ketone ROS composites. Minimum filling pressure was obtained for the consolidation of a 25-mm deep cavity. Parts processed at filling pressure showed a void content no greater than 1.2%. Increasing pressure to 70 bar resulted in decreased
void content as low as 0.03%. Mechanical testing of the T-shape showed similar strengths for parts processed at filling pressure and higher (70 bar). At the component level, initial strand placement greatly affected mechanical performance as the presence of a knit line was responsible for
a reduction of 60% in tensile strength. The main findings show that processing a complex feature at filling pressure Pfill was sufficient to reach nominal mechanical properties. This suggested that moderate porosity was not detrimental to the mechanical performance for the given
tests where fatigue performance was not evaluated.
Randomized controlled trial of comparison of the adequacy, and diagnostic yield of endoscopic ultrasound guided fine needle aspiration with and without a stylet in Indian patients: A prospective single blind study
Authors: Nijhawan Sandeep , Singh Bir , Kumar Amritesh , Ramrakhiani Dilip , Mathur Amit , Gupta Gaurav
Published: February 2015

Background: Endoscopic ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration (EUS-FNA) is done using EUS-FNA needle with an internal stylet by most of the endosonographers. There is no data to suggest that it improves the quality of cytology specimen, and it is tedious and time-consuming. Aim: To compare EUS-FNA specimens obtained with stylet and without stylet for adequacy of the specimen, amount of blood on the slide, number of passes and diagnostic yield. Materials and Methods: Patients undergoing EUS-FNA of solid lesions by one experienced endosonographer at an Indian tertiary center from October 2013 to July 2014 were included. Totally, 115 consecutive patients with 128 lesions were randomized to undergo EUS-FNA with or without stylet. Cytology slides were evaluated by a single pathologist blinded to FNA technique. Results: EUS-FNA was done with stylet in 66 lesions (Group 1) and without stylet in 62 lesions (Group 2). Site of lesion was lymph node in 67 (52.3%), pancreas in 43 (33.6%), liver in 8 (6.2%), gastrointestinal subepithelial lesion in 4 (3.1%) and others in 6 (4.9%). The average size of the lesion was 23.7 ± 14.8. When outcomes of two groups were compared, there was no statistically significant difference in adequacy of smears (P = 1.00), amount of blood on slides (P = 0.92), number of passes (P = 0.49) and diagnostic yield (P = 0.86). Conclusions: There was no significant difference in adequacy of the specimen, amount of blood on the slide, number of passes and diagnostic yield between with and without a stylet groups. The use of a stylet does not confer any advantage during EUS-FNA.
Calibration of Baroreflex Equilibrium Diagram Based on Exogenous Pressor Agents in Chronic Heart Failure Rats
Authors: Kawada Toru , Li Meihua , Sata Yusuke , Zheng Can , Turner Michael J. , Shimizu Shuji , Sugimachi Masaru
Published: February 2015

A baroreflex equilibrium diagram describes the relation between input pressure and sympathetic nerve activity (SNA) and that between SNA and arterial pressure (AP). To calibrate the SNA axis (abscissa) of the baroreflex equilibrium diagram, the AP response to intravenous bolus injections of phenylephrine (0.2-50 μg/kg) or norepinephrine (NE, 0.02-5 μg/kg) was examined in normal control rats (NC, n = 9) and rats with chronic heart failure (CHF, n = 6). The maximum slope of the dose–effect curve was significantly smaller in the CHF group than in the NC group (57.3 ± 5.2 vs 80.9 ± 6.3 mmHg/decade for phenylephrine, 60.2 ± 7.8 vs 80.4 ± 5.9 mmHg/decade for NE; P < 0.01). The CHF/NC ratio of the maximum slope was used to calibrate SNA. While the calibrated baroreflex equilibrium diagram showed increased maximum SNA and operating-point SNA in CHF rats compared with NC rats, the magnitude of increase was smaller than that expected from the excess plasma NE concentration in CHF rats. Plasma NE concentration in the CHF group could be disproportionally high relative to SNA.
Cohomogeneity One Randers Metrics
Authors: Li Jifu , Hu Zhiguang , Deng Shaoqiang
Published: February 2015

An action of a Lie groupGon a smooth manifoldMis called cohomogeneity one if the orbit spaceM/Gis of dimension 1. A Finsler metricFonMis called invariant ifFis invariant under the action ofG. In this paper, we study invariant Randers metrics on cohomogeneity one manifolds. We first give a sufficient and necessary condition for the existence of invariant Randers metrics on cohomogeneity one manifolds. Then we obtain some results on invariant Killing vector fields on the cohomogeneity one manifolds and use them to deduce some sufficient and necessary conditions for a cohomogeneity one Randers metric to be Einstein.
On the Relation of Real and Complex Lie Supergroups
Authors: Kalus Matthias
Published: February 2015

A complex Lie supergroup can be described as a real Lie supergroup with integrable almost complex structure. The necessary and sufficient conditions on an almost complex structure on a real Lie supergroup for defining a complex Lie supergroup are deduced. The classification of real Lie supergroups with such almost complex structures yields a new approach to the known classification of complex Lie supergroups by complexHarish-Chandra superpairs. A universal complexi ûcation of a real Lie supergroup is constructed
High Prevalence of Antimicrobial Resistance Among Common Bacterial Isolates in a Tertiary Healthcare Facility in Rwanda
Authors: Ntirenganya Cyprien , Manzi Olivier , Muvunyi Claude Mambo , Ogbuagu Onyema
Published: February 2015

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious public health threat in both developed and developing countries. Many developing countries, including Rwanda, lack adequate surveillance systems, and therefore, the prevalence of AMR is not well-known. We conducted a prospective observational study to assess the prevalence of AMR among common bacterial isolates from clinical specimens obtained from patients on the medical wards of Kigali University Teaching Hospital (KUTH). We evaluated the antibiotic sensitivity patterns of bacterial pathogens cultured from urine, blood, sputum, and wound swab specimens obtained over a 6-month period (July 1 to December 30, 2013). There were 154 positive cultures from specimens obtained from 141 unique patients over the study period. Urine, blood, wound swab, and sputum cultures comprised 55.2%, 25.3%, 16.2%, and 3.3% of the total specimens evaluated; 31.4% and 58.7% of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella isolates, respectively, were resistant to at least one of the third generation cephalosporins. Eight percent of E. coli isolates were resistant to imipenem; 82% and 6% of Staphylococcus aureus strains were oxacillin- and vancomycin-resistant respectively. Antimicrobial resistance rates are high in Rwanda and pose a serious therapeutic challenge to the management of common infections.
Collaborative Approach for Sustainable Auditing of Global Supply Chains
Authors: Appolloni Andrea , Risso Mario , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2015

Over the last years, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has become an important component of business activities for many companies in the world. Much attention has been devoted considering also supply chain perspective. Multinational corporations are not only responsible for sound environmental and social practices within their own premises, but increasingly also for sustainable performance of their suppliers, and ultimately for the entire supply chain which they lead as channel leaders. That is why, large buyers have recently come under pressure to increase monitoring of  suppliers' behaviours to bolster CSR compliance. This paper aims to present  a conceptual framework for analyzing the Sustainable Procurement practices  in global supply chains. An important aspect of implementing such supply chain CSR initiatives involves achieving supplier compliance. It also seeks to demonstrate how a specific consortium of Large European Telecommunications Companies, implements and manages together CSR practices, integrating social and environmental aspects at its suppliers based in Asia. This cooperation is an opportunity for members to collectively work on issues of common concern to find industry-wide solutions, aimed at jointly  auditing suppliers in developing countries on sustainable sourcing. The information collected and conclusions reached offer strategies for advancing CSR beyond the superficial and often ineffectual 'code of conduct' stage.
International Offshoring, Local Effects: an Inquiry on Italian Firms
Authors: Corò Giancarlo , Schenkel Marina , Volpe Mario
Published: February 2015

Does offshoring affect industrial productivity at local level? In order to reply to this question a set of equation have been estimated on a panel of Italian provinces in the period 1999-2010, using DOLS (Dynamic Ordinary Least Square) methodology for panel data. The main results of the empirical analysis are: 1) offshoring has not damaged manufacturing employment: 2) offshoring has increased employment in services. The proposed explanation is that offshoring is associated with productivity growth, an indirect proof that the process was not pursued simply as a cost-reduction seeking strategy. However short and long run effects may differ, and data shows that the process is still in its initial stage
A new airborne laser-induced fluorescence instrument for in situ detection of formaldehyde throughout the troposphere and lower stratosphere
Authors: Cazorla M. , Wolfe G. M. , Bailey S. A. , Swanson A. K. , Arkinson H. L. , Hanisco T. F.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. The NASA In Situ Airborne Formaldehyde (ISAF) instrument is a high-performance laser-based detector for gas-phase formaldehyde (HCHO). ISAF uses rotational-state specific laser excitation at 353 nm for laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) detection of HCHO. A number of features make ISAF ideal for airborne deployment, including (1) a compact, low-maintenance fiber laser, (2) a single-pass design for stable signal response, (3) a straightforward inlet design, and (4) a stand-alone data acquisition system. A full description of the instrument design is given, along with detailed performance characteristics. The accuracy of reported mixing ratios is ±10% based on calibration against IR and UV absorption of a primary HCHO standard. Precision at 1 Hz is typically better than 20% above 100 pptv, with uncertainty in the signal background contributing most to variability at low mixing ratios. The 1 Hz detection limit for a signal / noise ratio of 2 is 36 pptv for 10 mW of laser power, and the e fold time response at typical sample flow rates is 0.19 s. ISAF has already flown on several field missions and platforms with excellent results.
Relationship between N : P : Si ratio and phytoplankton community composition in a tropical estuarine mangrove ecosystem
Authors: Choudhury A. K. , Bhadury P.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. The present work aims at understanding the importance of Brzezinski–Redfield ratio (modified Redfield ratio) as a determinant of natural phytoplankton community composition in a mangrove ecosystem. Even though this ecoregion has been reported to be mostly eutrophic, localised and anthropogenic influences often result in habitat variability especially with regard to nutrient concentrations at different parts of this ecosystem. Phytoplankton, an important sentinel in aquatic ecosystems may respond differently to such alterations in habitat thereby bringing about significant changes in the community composition. Results show that even though habitat variability does exist at our study area and varied on a spatial and temporal scale, the nutrient concentrations were intricately balanced that never became limited and complemented well with the concept of modified Redfield ratio. However, an integrative approach to study phytoplankton community involving microscopy and rbcL clone library and sequencing approach revealed that it was the functional traits of individual phytoplankton taxa that determined the phytoplankton community composition rather than the nutrient concentrations of the study area. Hence we conclude that the recent concept of functional traits and elemental stoichiometry does not remain restricted to controlled environment of experimental studies only but occur in natural mangrove habitat.
Atmospheric transport and chemistry of trace gases in LMDz5B: evaluation and implications for inverse modelling
Authors: Locatelli R. , Bousquet P. , Hourdin F. , Saunois M. , Cozic A. , Couvreux F. , Grandpeix J.-Y. , Lefebvre M.-P. , Rio C. , Bergamaschi P. , Chambers S. D. , Karstens U. , Kazan V. , van der Laan S. , Meijer H. A. J. , Moncrieff J. , Ramonet M. , Scheeren H. A. , Schlosser C. , Schmidt M. , Vermeulen A. , Williams A. G.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. Representation of atmospheric transport is a major source of error in the estimation of greenhouse gas sources and sinks by inverse modelling. Here we assess the impact on trace gas mole fractions of the new physical parameterizations recently implemented in the atmospheric global climate model LMDz to improve vertical diffusion, mesoscale mixing by thermal plumes in the planetary boundary layer (PBL), and deep convection in the troposphere. At the same time, the horizontal and vertical resolution of the model used in the inverse system has been increased. The aim of this paper is to evaluate the impact of these developments on the representation of trace gas transport and chemistry, and to anticipate the implications for inversions of greenhouse gas emissions using such an updated model. Comparison of a one-dimensional version of LMDz with large eddy simulations shows that the thermal scheme simulates shallow convective tracer transport in the PBL over land very efficiently, and much better than previous versions of the model. This result is confirmed in three-dimensional simulations, by a much improved reproduction of the radon-222 diurnal cycle. However, the enhanced dynamics of tracer concentrations induces a stronger sensitivity of the new LMDz configuration to external meteorological forcings. At larger scales, the inter-hemispheric exchange is slightly slower when using the new version of the model, bringing them closer to observations. The increase in the vertical resolution (from 19 to 39 layers) significantly improves the representation of stratosphere/troposphere exchange. Furthermore, changes in atmospheric thermodynamic variables, such as temperature, due to changes in the PBL mixing modify chemical reaction rates, which perturb chemical equilibriums of reactive trace gases. One implication of LMDz model developments for future inversions of greenhouse gas emissions is the ability of the updated system to assimilate a larger amount of high-frequency data sampled at high-variability stations. Others implications are discussed at the end of the paper.
Development of prognostic aerosol–cloud interactions combining a chemistry transport model and a regional climate model
Authors: Thomas M. A. , Kahnert M. , Andersson C. , Kokkola H. , Hansson U. , Jones C. , Langner J. , Devasthale A.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. To reduce uncertainties and hence, to obtain a better estimate of aerosol (direct and indirect) radiative forcing, next generation climate models aim for a tighter coupling between chemistry transport models and regional climate models and a better representation of aerosol–cloud interactions. In this study, this coupling is done by first forcing the Rossby Center regional climate model, RCA4 by ERA-Interim lateral boundaries (LBCs) and SST using the standard CDNC (cloud droplet number concentration) formulation (hereafter, referred to as the "stand-alone RCA4 version" or "CTRL" simulation). In this simulation, the CDNCs are assigned fixed numbers based on if the underlying surface is land or oceanic. The meteorology from this simulation is then used to drive the chemistry transport model, MATCH which is coupled online with the aerosol dynamics model, SALSA. CDNC fields obtained from MATCH-SALSA are then fed back into a new RCA4 simulation. In this new simulation (referred to as "MOD" simulation), all parameters remain the same as in the first run except for the CDNCs provided by MATCH-SALSA. Simulations are carried out with this model set up for the period 2005–2012 over Europe and the differences in cloud microphysical properties and radiative fluxes as a result of local CDNC changes and possible model responses are analyzed. Our study shows substantial improvements in the cloud microphysical properties with the input of the MATCH-SALSA derived 3-D CDNCs compared to the stand-alone RCA4 version. This model set up improves the spatial, seasonal and vertical distribution of CDNCs with higher concentration observed over central Europe during summer half of the year and over Eastern Europe and Russia during the winter half of the year. Realistic cloud droplet radii (CD radii) values have been simulated with the maxima reaching 13 μm whereas in the stand-alone version, the values reached only 5 μm. A substantial improvement in the distribution of cloud liquid water path was observed when compared to the satellite retrievals from MODIS for the boreal summer months. The median and SD values from the "MOD" simulation are closer to observations than those obtained using the stand-alone RCA4 version. These changes resulted in a significant decrease in the total annual mean net fluxes at the top of the atmosphere (TOA) by −5 W m−2 over the domain selected in the study. The TOA net fluxes from the "MOD" simulation show a better agreement with the retrievals from CERES instrument. The aerosol indirect effects are evaluated based on 1900 emissions. Our simulations estimated the domain averaged annual mean total radiative forcing of −0.64 W m−2 with larger contribution from the first indirect aerosol effect than from the second indirect aerosol effect.
Protecting environmental flows through enhanced water licensing and water markets
Authors: Erfani T. , Binions O. , Harou J. J.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. To enable economically efficient future adaptation to water scarcity some countries are revising water management institutions such as water rights or licensing systems to more effectively protect ecosystems and their services. However, allocating more flow to the environment can mean less abstraction for economic production, or the inability to accommodate new entrants (diverters). Modern licensing arrangements should simultaneously enhance environmental flows and protect water abstractors who depend on water. Making new licensing regimes compatible with tradable water rights is an important component of water allocation reform. Regulated water markets can help decrease the societal cost of water scarcity whilst enforcing environmental and/or social protections. In this article we simulate water markets under a regime of fixed volumetric water abstraction licenses with fixed minimum flows or under a scalable water license regime (using water "shares") with dynamic environmental minimum flows. Shares allow adapting allocations to available water and dynamic environmental minimum flows vary as a function of ecological requirements. We investigate how a short-term spot market manifests within each licensing regime. We use a river-basin-scale hydroeconomic agent model that represents individual abstractors and can simulate a spot market under both licensing regimes. We apply this model to the Great Ouse River basin in eastern England with public water supply, agricultural, energy and industrial water-using agents. Results show the proposed shares with dynamic environmental flow licensing system protects river flows more effectively than the current static minimum flow requirements during a dry historical year, but that the total opportunity cost to water abstractors of the environmental gains is a 10–15% loss in economic benefits.
Estimation of flow velocity for a debris flow via the two-phase fluid model
Authors: Guo S. , Xu P. , Zheng Z. , Gao Y.
Published: February 2015

Abstract. The two-phase fluid model is applied in this study to calculate the steady velocity of a debris flow along a channel bed. By using the momentum equations of the solid and liquid phases in the debris flow together with an empirical formula to describe the interaction between two phases, the steady velocities of the solid and liquid phases are obtained theoretically. The comparison of those velocities obtained by the proposed method with the observed velocities of two real-world debris flows shows that the proposed method can estimate the velocity for a debris flow.
The Dose-Effect Safety Profile of Skeletal Muscle Precursor Cell Therapy in a Dog Model of Intrinsic Urinary Sphincter Deficiency
Authors: Williams J. Koudy , Eckman Delrae , Dean Ashley , Moradi Mahmoudreza , Allickson Julie , Cline J. Mark , Yoo James J. , Atala Anthony
Published: January 2015

Locally injected skeletal muscle precursor cells (skMPCs) integrate into and restore the muscle layers, innervation, vasculature, and function of the sphincter complex in animal models of intrinsic urinary sphincter deficiency (ISD). The goal of the present study was to test the dose-effect safety profile of skMPC therapy in a dog model of ISD. Sphincter deficiency was created in 20 adult female dogs by surgically removing the skeletal muscle layer of the urinary sphincter complex. skMPCs isolated from the hind leg were expanded in culture and injected 4 weeks later into the sphincter complex at a dose of 25 million cells (n = 5), 50 million cells (n = 5), or 100 million cells (n = 5) per milliliter in a 2-ml volume. Five dogs received no sphincter injection. The measures of maximal sphincter pressure, complete blood count, and blood chemistry were performed monthly until their sacrifice at 9 months. At that point, full necropsy was performed to assess the safety of the skMPC injections. Injection of different doses of cells had no effects on the body weight, blood cell count, or kidney or liver function test results (p > .05 among the skMPC doses). Some incidental pathologic features were found in the lower urinary tract in all groups and were most likely associated with repeat catheterization. The maximal urinary sphincter pressure was higher in the 50 million cells per milliliter treatment group than in the other experimental groups (p < .05). The findings of the present study have confirmed that urinary sphincter injection of skMPCs results in no significant local or systemic pathologic features within the dose range that improves sphincter pressures.
Proceedings: Moving Toward Cell-Based Therapies for Liver Disease
Authors: Kadyk Lisa C. , Collins Lila R. , Littman Neil J. , Millan Maria T.
Published: January 2015

Despite available medical therapy and organ transplantation, a significant unmet medical need remains for the treatment of liver failure, end-stage liver disease, and liver-based inborn errors of metabolism. Liver cell transplantation has the potential to address this need; however, the field is in search of a suitable cell therapeutic. The ability to reproducibly generate a well-characterized source of engraftable and functional liver cells has continued to be a challenge. Recent progress with tissue-derived stem/progenitor cells and pluripotent stem cell-derived cells now offers the field the opportunity to address this challenge.
Mucosal effects of tenofovir 1% gel
Authors: Hladik Florian , Burgener Adam , Ballweber Lamar , Gottardo Raphael , Vojtech Lucia , Fourati Slim , Dai James Y , Cameron Mark J , Strobl Johanna , Hughes Sean M , Hoesley Craig , Andrew Philip , Johnson Sherri , Piper Jeanna , Friend David R , Ball T Blake , Cranston Ross D , Mayer Kenneth H , McElrath M Juliana , McGowan Ian
Published: February 2015

Tenofovir gel is being evaluated for vaginal and rectal pre-exposure prophylaxis against HIV transmission. Because this is a new prevention strategy, we broadly assessed its effects on the mucosa. In MTN-007, a phase-1, randomized, double-blinded rectal microbicide trial, we used systems genomics/proteomics to determine the effect of tenofovir 1% gel, nonoxynol-9 2% gel, placebo gel or no treatment on rectal biopsies (15 subjects/arm). We also treated primary vaginal epithelial cells from four healthy women with tenofovir in vitro. After seven days of administration, tenofovir 1% gel had broad-ranging effects on the rectal mucosa, which were more pronounced than, but different from, those of the detergent nonoxynol-9. Tenofovir suppressed anti-inflammatory mediators, increased T cell densities, caused mitochondrial dysfunction, altered regulatory pathways of cell differentiation and survival, and stimulated epithelial cell proliferation. The breadth of mucosal changes induced by tenofovir indicates that its safety over longer-term topical use should be carefully monitored.

Clinical trial registration: NCT01232803.
Slow stick slip of antigorite serpentinite under hydrothermal conditions as a possible mechanism for slow earthquakes
Authors: Okazaki Keishi , Katayama Ikuo
Published: January 2015

Slow earthquakes, characterized by a different scaling law to regular earthquakes, have been detected at the hydrated plate interface in the subduction zones, but the generating mechanism of them remains almost unexplored. Frictional experiments on antigorite serpentinite under hydrothermal conditions are conducted to assess the distinct scaling law of slow earthquakes. Slow stick‐slip was observed at temperatures that were close to the dehydration temperature of antigorite, which is resulted by the localized dehydration of serpentine in the shear zone. The occurrence of slow stick‐slip is consistent with the temperature range found in the corner of the mantle wedge in SW Japan and Cascadia, where slow earthquakes occur. The laboratory slow stick‐slip shows a similar scaling law of slow earthquakes, but distinct from that of regular earthquakes. We propose that the shear‐induced dehydration of the serpentine play an important role for the generation of slow earthquakes.