bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RAPID CHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF OBSIDIAN ARTIFACTS BY ELECTRON MICROPROBE ANALYSIS
Authors: MERRICK H. V. , BROWN F. H.
Published: August 2007

The potential of the electron microprobe to analyse chemically obsidian artifacts for source provenance studies is demonstrated using artifacts from four archaeological sites in Kenya.
EVALUATION OF THE MANGANESE ESR METHOD OF MARBLE CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: LLOYD R. V. , SMITH P. W. , HASKELL H. W.
Published: August 2007

Results suggest that ESR studies of Mn+2 in marble can provide an excellent discriminator for the determination of marble provenance. In comparison with other methods of quantitative analysis for manganese such as AA or NAA, the ESR method determines only Mn+2 rather than total Mn, is inexpensive and rapid with no chemical preparation required, and does not consume the sample.
LEAD ISOTOPE APPROACH TO THE UNDERSTANDING OF EARLY JAPANESE BRONZE CULTURE
Authors: MABUCHI H. , HIRAO Y. , NISHIDA M.
Published: August 2007

For several years, the authors have used lead isotope analysis to investigate extensively the provenance of ancient bronze or copper artifacts which had been excavated mainly from Japanese archaeological sites. The results have been published item by item in several relevant Japanese journals. This review is intended to give an account which will review the whole work relating early Japanese bronze culture to Chinese and Korean cultures through lead isotope study.
LOCAL POTTERY PROVENIENCE STUDIES: A ROLE FOR CLAY ANALYSIS
Authors: ADAN‐BAYEWITZ D. , PERLMAN I.
Published: August 2007

This article deals with a problem of pottery provenience in which Neutron Activation Analysis was employed to establish chemical ‘fingerprints’. Because of the special nature of the problem, it was necessary to collect clays systematically to reveal the compositions of pottery that would have been made in the vicinity. By so doing, it was possible to ascertain the local provenience of a range of common household wares. Large numbers of vessels were analysed, making possible a meaningful application of statistics in the evaluation of the data.
MEDIEVAL COPPER ALLOY PRODUCTION AND WEST AFRICAN BRONZE ANALYSES ‐ PART II
Authors: CRADDOCK P. T. , PICTON J.
Published: August 2007

The first part of this work (Craddock 1985) critically examined the uses to which analyses of West African metalwork have been put and suggested other possible significance against the background of increased knowledge of the smelting technology and alloys used in Europe and the Middle East during the last 1500 years. The second part is devoted to the composition and metalworking techniques of some of the bronzes and brasses from Nigeria and the implications for their art history.
PETROGRAPHIC MODAL ANALYSIS ‐ A NECESSARY COMPLEMENT TO CHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF CERAMIC COARSE WARE
Authors: SCHUBERT P.
Published: August 2007

Bulk chemical analysis is shown to be insufficient for the archaeometric interpretation of coarse ware pottery. Accompanied by quantitative petrographic analysis of the temper much more conclusive information can be obtained at little more expense. Three small groups of prehistoric pottery from Switzerland have been examined with both techniques, showing that expensive chemical bulk analyses may be obsolete or even misleading, and in any case need further confirmation and interpretation by petrographical means. Assuming a rigorous sampling strategy, the number of analyses necessary for valid statements can be substantially reduced relative to those necessary for the statistical interpretation of bulk analyses only.
PALAEOMAGNETIC AND MINERAL MAGNETIC STUDIES OF SEDIMENTS FROM PETRALONA CAVE, GREECE
Authors: PAPAMARINOPOULOS S. , READMAN P. W. , MANIATIS Y. , SIMOPOULOS A.
Published: August 2007

Palaeomagnetic measurements on sediments from Petralona cave. Greece indicate a stable, single component remanence of normal polarity. Redeposition experiments established the ability of the sediments to acquire the direction of the geomagnetic field. Magnetic properties and Mössbauer spectra of sediments and magnetic concentrates show that magnetite, which is slightly non‐stoichiometric, and haematite are present in the sediments from the cave. The magnetite dominates the magnetic properties and exhibits pseudosingle domain behaviour.

Using rstimated deposition rates for the sediments in the cave. and the fact that U Th and ESR dates which can be stratigraphically correlated to the palaeomagnetic section range from 200 to 750 ka. implies that the section represents a time span of about 150 180 ka within the Brunhes epoch. From this. the age of a human cranium found in the cave 25 years ago is estimated to be not older than 620 ka.
ABSOLUTE DATING OF THE AEGEAN LATE BRONZE AGE
Authors: WARREN P. M.
Published: August 2007

A recent argument for raising the absolute date of the beginning of the Aegean Late Bronze (LB) Age to about 1700 B.C. is critically examined. It is argued here that: (1) the alabaster lid from Knossos did have the strati‐graphical context assigned to it by Evans, in all probability Middle Minoan IIIA, c. 1650 B.C.; (2) the attempt to date the alabastron found in an early Eighteenth Dynasty context at Aniba to Late Minoan IIIA:1 is open to objections; (3) radiocarbon dates from Aegean LB I contexts are too wide in their calibrated ranges and too inconsistent both within and between site sets to offer any reliable grounds at present for raising Aegean LB I absolute chronology to 1700 B.C. Other evidence, however, suggests this period began about 1600 B.C., i.e. some fifty years earlier than the conventional date of 1550 B.C.
DATING THE AEGEAN LATE BRONZE AGE WITH RADIOCARBON: ADDENDUM
Authors: BETANCOURT P. P. , MICHAEL H. N.
Published: August 2007

Additional comment on the new high‐precision calibration curves and tables published after this article (Archaeometry 29 (1), 1987, 45–49) was in press.
ANALYSIS OF BONE FROM THE BRONZE AGE SITE BOVENKARSPEL‐HET VALKJE, THE NETHERLANDS: A PRELIMINARY REPORT
Authors: RUNIA L. T.
Published: August 2007

Bones from a Bronze Age settlement in a low‐lying area in The Netherlands were analysed for their content of strontium and certain other elements. Low strontium concentrations in the human bones indicate that part of the diet consisted of animal products. Milk and dairy products were probably also incorporated in the diet. This would have had a marked effect on the Sr/Ca ratio of the total diet and on the strontium content of human bones. Anomalous mean strontium concentrations for the animal species are tentatively explained in relation to the specific environment of the settlement. Different pasturing practices for cattle and sheep/goat respectively are possibly reflected by the strontium content of their bones.
TECHNOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION OF THE COATINGS ON SOME ‘HAEMATITE‐COATED’ POTTERY FROM SOUTHERN ENGLAND
Authors: MIDDLETON A. P.
Published: August 2007

The nature of the coatings on a selection of ‘haematite‐coated’ sherds from Late Bronze Age/Early Iron Age contexts in southern England has been investigated using X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis. It has been found that the term ‘haematite‐coated’ is somewhat misleading. The study indicates that at least three distinct techniques (with local variations) were used to produce the red finishes which characterise these wares. In some instances visual examination and X‐ray diffraction can provide a reliable indication of the type of red finish, but the use of a scanning electron microscope has been found to provide a more precise characterisation of the finishes and their relationship to the underlying sherd bodies.
A TEST OF THE USE OF NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS FOR CLAY SOURCE CHARACTERIZATION
Authors: TOPPING P. G. , MACKENZIE A. B.
Published: August 2007

A description is provided of the analytical and statistical methods used in a study of the later prehistoric pottery of the Western Isles of Scotland. The accuracy and precision of the methods used are discussed and results are presented for the analysis of a set of clay samples from known locations. The study indicates that the methods employed provide an adequate means of characterizing clays from the various sources used. In addition the use of ratios of element concentrations to the scandium concentration for individual samples provides a better classification than does the use of concentrations rather than ratios.
SOURCES OF THE QUARTZITE OF SOME ANCIENT EGYPTIAN SCULPTURES
Authors: STROSS F. H. , HAY R. L. , ASARO F. , BOWMAN H. R. , MICHEL H. V.
Published: August 2007

This article reports the results of analysis of samples collected from some Egyptian quartzite artifacts. such as statuary, dating from the New Kingdom. Most of the artifacts are located in Upper Egypt, but the results of analysis suggest that, until the middle of the fourteenth century B.C., the quartzite came from a more distant quarry near Cairo rather than from the quartzite quarries located near Aswan in Upper Egypt.
CHEMICAL AND LEAD ISOTOPE ANALYSES OF GREEK LATE NEOLITHIC AND EARLY BRONZE AGE METALS
Authors: McGEEHAN‐LIRITZIS V. , GALE N. H.
Published: August 2007

Results of a combined archaeological and analytical project of Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age copper, bronze and lead artefacts from four distinct areas of mainland Greece are presented. The aim of the study is to understand better the stages of technological development of each region, their possible ore sources and also to assess any external contribution to or internal evolution of their metallurgy. Interesting results which could challenge the established view of Late Neolithic/Early Bronze Age metallurgy in the Greek mainland are presented.
LES VERRES ANCIENS: LA QUESTION DE LA DATABILITÉ PAR THERMOLUMINESCENCE
Authors: MÜLLER P. , SCHVOERER M.
Published: August 2007

La plupart des échantillons de verres archéologiques ne sont pas datables par thermoluminescence. Une analyse des causes limitant l'extension de la datation par thermoluminescence aux verres anciens montre que celles‐ci sont directement issues de caracteristiques de l'etat vitreux. Toutefois. dans certains cas particuliers, la datation est possible.

Most archaeological glass samples cannot be dated using thermoluminescence (TL). An analysis of the causes which limit the extension of the TL dating method to ancient glass shows that these causes come from the vitreous state characteristics. Nevertheless in some cases, dating is still possible.
RADIOCARBON DATES FROM THE OXFORD AMS SYSTEM: ARCHAEOMETRY DATELIST 11
Authors: HEDGES R. E. M. , HOUSLEY R. A. , BRONK C. R. , VAN KLINKEN G. J.
Published: August 2007

The eleLenth list of dates from the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator.
MICROCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BUILDING STONE FROM SEVILLE CATHEDRAL, SPAIN
Authors: BELLO M. A. , MARTÍN A.
Published: August 2007

Enrichment diagrams for trace elements have been proposed as a useful and straightforward procedure to identify ores and stones. The identification of the diverse stone of the exterior of the Cathedral of Seville has been achieved by this means. Fourteen trace elements have been analysed, from both quarry and building material samples, using atomic absorption and flame emission spectrometry in order to apply enrichment diagrams for identification purposes.
THE PROVENANCE AND COAL RANK OF JET BY CARBON‐13 NUCLEAR MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY
Authors: LAMBERT J. B. , FRYE J. S. , JURKIEWICZ A.
Published: August 2007

The carbon‐13 nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of jet samples from England and Spain resemble those of carbonaceous materials from lignitic and sub‐bituminous ranks. This characterization is based on the aromatic/aliphatic ratio of resonances and on the pattern of fine structure. Particularly characteristic of jet is the well‐defined fine structure in the aromatic region that may be attributed to phenolic functionalities. This fine structure is found in all English and Spanish samples. Resonances from rapidly moving methyl groups are found in English but not in Spanish samples and may provide a means of distinguishing provenance.
ANALYSIS OF THE FATTY DEBRIS FROM THE WRECK OF A BASQUE WHALING SHIP AT RED BAY, LABRADOR
Authors: MORGAN E. D. , EDWARDS C. , PEPPER S. A.
Published: August 2007

Analysis of fatty material from barrels in a submerged wreck of a whaler in Labrador water showed it to contain free fatty acids, including some higher fatty acid, consistent with whale oil and certainly of marine origin. Conversion to adipocere was extensive but not complete.
CATHODOLUMINESCENCE OF WHITE MARBLES: AN OVERVIEW*
Authors: BARBIN V. , RAMSEYER K. , DECROUEZ D. , BURNS S. J. , CHAMAY J. , MAIER J. L.
Published: August 2007

Identifying the source area of white marbles has long been a problem in archaeology. To address this problem, about 1000 samples from known Classical quarrying areas in Greece, Italy and Turkey were analysed using cathodoluminescence. Twenty‐one cathodomicrofacies were recognized, each of which generally characterizes a given area. In cases where the cathodomicrofacies is common to more than one area, δ13C and δ18O signatures provide an effective complementary dataset which allows additional distinctions. Determination keys for the 21 cathodomicrofacies observed are proposed based upon their principal cathodoluminescence colour, and their stable isotopic signature.
ANCIENT EGYPTIAN LIMESTONE QUARRIES: A PETROLOGICAL SURVEY*
Authors: HARRELL J. A.
Published: August 2007

Ancient Egyptian limestone quarries in the Nile Valley occur in six geological formations of Palaeogene age. Samples were collected from 23 of the 48 known quarries, and analysed by thin‐section petrography and X‐ray fluorescence spectrometry. Results of the analyses show that the geological formations can be identified from rock texture and allochem types, and a plot of SiO2/Al2O3versus CaO/[CaO + MgO]. The application of these petrographic and geochemical parameters make it possible to determine the geographic provenance of limestone used in ancient Egyptian sculptures and monuments.
GREENSTONE AXES FROM EASTERN CENTRAL SWEDEN: A TECHNOLOGICAL‐PETROLOGICAL APPROACH*
Authors: KARS E. A. K. , KARS H. , McDONNELL R. D.
Published: August 2007

Thin‐section study of Mesolithic‐Neolithic axes from five sites in eastern central Sweden and of dolerites occurring in the vicinity showed that the axes were almost definitely produced from local material. Knapping experiments were carried out on blanks from two of these local dolerite varieties and on control material from Delaware, New Jersey, to produce thin‐butted axes. These showed that the unconventional shape of the Swedish preforms is mainly, if not completely, determined by the intrinsic properties of the rock and not by local or regional cultural differences or bad craftsmanship. A number of features were observed in thin‐section, such as a relatively coarse grain size, veining and small cracks, which may lead to the inferior knapping qualities of the Swedish dolerites.
A NEW METHOD TO DATE PETROGLYPHS
Authors: BEDNARIK R. G.
Published: August 2007

A new calibrated method based on erosion phenomena is presented for the dating of petroglyphs (rock carvings and engravings) and geomorphic surfaces. In contrast to previous methods of petroglyph dating, which sought to determine the age of various mineral and organic deposits coating the art, microerosion analysis attempts to ascertain the time of mark production itself, by creating a geomorphologically based time frame. The method involves the establishment of calibration curves for the crucial variables to be considered. These are the rock type and climate of a particular region, microerosional indices and age. The theory, practical application, and prerequisites of the method are considered, and the paper concludes by defining the disadvantages and advantages of the method.
MAGNETIC SUSCEPTIBILITY USED IN NON‐DESTRUCTIVE PROVENANCING OF ROMAN GRANITE COLUMNS
Authors: WILLIAMS‐THORPE O. , THORPE R. S.
Published: August 2007

Magnetic susceptibility provides a rapid, cheap and non‐destructive method of in situ characterization of archaeological artefacts containing magnetic minerals, and can be used as an aid to geological provenancing. Three hundred and sixty‐three Roman granite columns were measured by this method and results show clear groupings and similarities with potential granite sources in Italy, Turkey and Egypt. Magnetic susceptibility measurements must be made on representative, unweathered surfaces of rocks and artefacts, and corrected for object size and surface relief according to manufacturers’recommendations. In addition, corrections for column curvature have been derived for use with measurements made on columns.
SCIENTIFIC ANALYSIS OF ROMAN GLASS FROM AUGUSTA PRAETORIA
Authors: MIRTI P. , CASOLI A. , APPOLONIA L.
Published: August 2007

Fifty‐five fragments of Roman glass from Augusta Praetoria (Aosta, Italy) were analysed by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy determining 15 elements (Si, Na, Ca, Al, Fe, Mg, Mn, Ti, Sr, Ba, Cr, Ni, Cu, Co and Pb) on dissolved samples; in addition, potassium was determined by flame atomic absorption spectroscopy. The analytical results indicate that all the fragments, with one exception, are silica‐soda‐lime glasses; (he exception is a potash glass. Cluster analysis was performed on the analytical data by accounting for either 14 (all the elements searched for but Ni and Pb) or eight elements (after further removal of Si, Fe, Mn, Cr, Cu and Co from the data set). The results obtained indicate that, once colouring and decolouring agents are removed, the classification of the glasses seems to be mainly determined by chronology; separate groups within coeval fragments may indicate different provenances.
FACTORS AFFECTING THE VIABILITY OF THERMOLUMINESCENCE DATING OF GLASS
Authors: MÜLLER P. , SCHVOERER M.
Published: August 2007

The aim of this study is to achieve a better understanding of some of the factors that limit the thermoluminescence (TL) dating of glass. Using a‘model system’(lithium‐disilicate samples having different levels of crystallinity from 0 to 100%), we show, first, that the TL of glass is reproducible only if the glass is not heated above its temperature glass transition and second, that there is a clear connection between the TL sensitivity and the degree of crvstallinity of the sample. We conclude that thermoluminescence is not a general dating method for archaeological glass, but it can be applied to particular glass samples that haue specified characteristics.
A GROUND RADAR SURVEY OF MEDIEVAL KILN SITES IN SUZU CITY, WESTERN JAPAN*
Authors: GOODMAN D. , NISHIMURA Y. , UNO T. , YAMAMOTO T.
Published: August 2007

A ground‐penetrating radar study of medieval kiln sites located near Suzu city, on the Noto peninsula, was conducted prior to excavation. Archaeological site plans estimated from time slices of the closely‐spaced parallel radar profiles are compared with excavations and a proton magnetometer survey. The results indicate that non‐destructive remote sensing with radar can help to determine effectively the presence and general structural features of intact kiln floors.
THE DESIGN OF EVALUATION OF ASSAYS OF TRACE ELEMENTS IN A FOSSIL BONE*
Authors: TAUFER I. , TAUFEROVÁ J.
Published: August 2007

The flame atomic absorption spectroscopy method of analysis of trace elements (Mn, Sr, and Cu) in a mammoth's bone and the method of estimation of the data using regression analysis are described. The concentration fields of the single elements in a cross‐section through the bone are well described by a fourth degree polynomial. The minimum values and their coordinates have been determined. A method of determination of the original concentrations of trace elements in fossil bones is described further. The approximating features of the regression exponential equations and of the diffusion functions of various shapes were determined and a method for calculating the concentrations and diffusion properties of the bones once deposited in the soil is suggested. The original trace element concentration can be estimated by extrapolation of a suitable exponential or diffusion function.
THE BAYESIAN APPROACH TO THE INTERPRETATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL DATA
Authors: LITTON C. D. , BUCK C. E.
Published: August 2007

Archaeologists are increasingly becoming aware of an approach to data investigation known as Bayesian statistics. In this paper we outline both the philosophical and statistical background to the approach. We show that it provides a logical and coherent framework in which to make inferences on the basis of both data and a priori expert knowledge. We note that adoption of the Bayesian framework is particularly timely since there have been recent dramatic developments in numerical methods which mean that a number of previous implementation problems have now been solved. As a result, many questions of archaeological interest, which require the use of complex statistical models, are being investigated using this methodology. We use a variety of recently published examples from a range of archaeological areas to illustrate the type of questions that can be answered and the nature of the methodologies used, and we make comparisons with the results obtained using more traditional statistical techniques.
EVIDENCE FOR THE MIXING OF FATS AND WAXES IN ARCHAEOLOGICAL CERAMICS
Authors: CHARTERS S. , EVERSHED R. P. , BLINKHORN P. W. , DENHAM V.
Published: August 2007

Lipid residues from two Late Saxon/early medieval ceramic vessels recovered from excavations at West Cotton, Raunds, Northamptonshire, U.K., have been investigated by high‐temperature gas chromatography (GC) and GC/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The solvent extracts of sherds sampled from different points on each vessel (i.e., base, body and rim) were analysed quantitatively and qualitatively and compounds were identified which were characteristic of beeswax and animal fat. Furthermore, by determining the sites of accumulation of the specific lipid types and their concentrations in different parts of the vessels it can be inferred that the beeswax was added to the vessels prior to the addition of the fat. It was concluded that the two vessels performed different functions in antiquity.
CRITERIA FOR THE PETROGRAPHIC CHARACTERIZATION OF STONEPASTE CERAMICS
Authors: MASON R. B.
Published: August 2007

The application of petrographic analysis to the problems of provenance attribution of ceramics made in the Islamic world is complicated by the presence of the highly quartzose ‘stonepaste’body. To facilitate the differentiation of different stonepaste groups, it has been necessary to develop specific criteria for distinguishing the characteristics of each centre, including the assessment of the degree of cloudiness of the quartz as rendered by fluid inclusions. This has enabled the successful application of petrographic analysis, and the solution of a number of provenance problems.
MAGNETIC SUSCEPTIBILITY VARIATIONS AT MONS CLAUDIANUS AND IN ROMAN COLUMNS: A METHOD OF PROVENANCING TO WITHIN A SINGLE QUARRY
Authors: WILLIAMS‐THORPE O. , JONES M. C. , TINDLE A. G. , THORPE R. S.
Published: August 2007

Mons Claudianus in the Eastern Desert of Egypt was an important source of granodiorite for Roman columns. Computer contouring of 1119 magnetic susceptibility measurements at the quarry shows systematic variations, with low readings in the west of the quarry area and higher readings in the east. One hundred and seventy measurements on 62 columns of Mons Claudianus type in Rome and its environs were compared with the quarry readings, using a t‐test based procedure. Some columns with distinctively low or high magnetic susceptibility could be provenanced very precisely to areas of about 700 × 700m within the 9km2of Mons Claudianus. Columns with susceptibility in the middle of the Mons Claudianus range could not be provenanced precisely. Results indicate early (first century AD) use of both west and east parts of Mons Claudianus, and contemporaneous use of several parts of the quarry, rather than systematic or sequential opening of the area. Columns found in third‐century AD monuments, provenanced to the same parts of Mons Claudianus as earlier material, may indicate reuse of columns in some monuments. Magnetic susceptibility constitutes a portable and non‐destructive method capable of provenancing not only to a quarry, but to specific areas within a single quarry.
NEUTRON ACTIVATION ANALYSIS OF ROMAN AFRICAN RED SLIP WARE KILNS
Authors: TAYLOR R. J. , ROBINSON V. J.
Published: August 2007

Roman African Red Slip ware (ARS) sherds from four ARS kiln sites in modern‐day Tunisia (El Mahrine, El Ala, Oudna and Pheradi Maius) have been analysed using instrumental neutron activation analysis. Multivariate statistical methods (including cluster analysis and Manhattan City Block distances), with a dilution correction applied to the data, were used to interpret the concentration data. Reference groups for each of the four kiln sites were established. Both El Mahrine and Oudna were described by two dilution‐related groups. These kiln groups were all shown to be compositionally distinct from each other and suitable for use in provenance studies.
MULTICOIN: A TOOL FOR CLASSIFYING COINS IN A MULTIMEDIA ENVIRONMENT
Authors: FISCHETTI E. , GISOLFI A. , PEDUTO P.
Published: August 2007

Classifying coins found during excavation is a challenging task for the archaeologist. This paper describes a multimedia system designed to assist the archaeologist by enabling him either to classify coins based on a pre‐existing catalogue or to draw up his own catalogue for specific purposes. The system can also be used to train novices in the field: following an initial screening, the archaeologist only has to examine coins specifically requiring his expertise. A case study uses coins minted in Salerno 800–1200 AD, but the system has been designed to classify any set of coins by simply changing the underlying knowledge base. Very little training is required to operate the user‐friendly system, which runs on multimedia PCs, as it is written using the C++ language and makes full use of the advanced features of Windows 3.11.
EARLY BRONZE AGE TIN PROCESSING AT KESTEL/GÖLTEPE, ANATOLIA
Authors: EARL B. , ÖZBAL H.
Published: August 2007

Chemical analysis of statistically significant numbers of samples including minerals, sediments, soil, host rock as well as powdered materials, crucible accretions and metal artefacts revealed information about the distribution of cassiterite at Kestel and the tin smelting processes that took place at Göltepe c. 2600 BC. Using the ancient technique of vanning for the isolation of tin ore (cassiterite), followed by assaying by blowpipe/charcoal block, as well as crucible smelting with a blowpipe, good tin metal suitable for alloying with copper to make bronze was obtained. There is every indication that tin was mined and smelted in the Early Bronze Age at the Kestel/Göltepe sites.
TECHNICAL STUDY OF A CEREMONIAL SICAN TUMI FIGURINE
Authors: SCOTT D. A.
Published: August 2007

Examination of a Sican ceremonial tumi, dated to the Middle Sican, c. AD 850–1050, showed that it was made in a silver‐copper alloy of approximate composition 93% silver, 6% copper. Many separate pieces are used in the construction, joined together by both mechanical methods and by solder. The principal figure has been made from 18 separate silver sheets, with 169 separate parts identified in the head‐dress, totalling 187 design elements. Metallographic examination of a fragment of repoussé decorated sheet from the figure surmounting the tumi surprisingly showed that the silver‐copper alloy has a cast morphology; this demonstrates that Sican metalsmiths were pre‐casting silver‐copper sheet into the dimensions required for making the tumi, rather than carrying out the expected process of making the idol from hammered silver‐copper sheet, shaped by extensive cycles of working and annealing, thus contradicting the usual assumptions about the manufacture of sheet‐metalwork made in such cases.
THE USE OF IMAGE ANALYSIS TO DETERMINE YARN TWIST LEVEL IN ARCHAEOLOGICAL TEXTILES
Authors: CORK C. R. , COOKE W. D. , WILD J. P.
Published: August 2007

An analysis of the structure of archaeological textiles can give an insight into different traditions, geographic origins or technologies associated with the textile production. An important parameter in this context is the level and direction of yarn twist. In this paper a new quantitative method of yarn twist measurement is described. Using image analysis techniques a measure of the mean twist level and the variation in twist can be determined. The technique is applied to a selection of woven woollen textiles from the first‐century Roman fort at Vindolanda in northern England.
AN APPRAISAL OF THE PROBLEMS INVOLVED IN THREE‐DIMENSIONAL GROUND PENETRATING RADAR IMAGING OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL FEATURES
Authors: MEATS C.
Published: August 2007

There are a number of problems that are due to the physics involved in the ground penetrating radar (GPR) technique which result in the recorded data giving a distorted representation of the true subsurface structure. Many of these problems are reduced by the experience of the person interpreting the data. This paper is an attempt to remove some of the subjectivity from this process by considering how the distortion in the data could be reduced by applying a migration routine. The amount of data, and the time needed to collect it, place a restriction on the use of the migration process to two dimensions only and result in a compromise approach to the use of GPR. This compromise may, however, result in better integration of GPR with the other geophysical techniques available.
One‐Period Model of Individual Consumption, Life Insurance, and Investment Decisions
Authors: Zhu Yanyun
Published: August 2007

Abstract

This article studies individuals' optimal decisions on consumption, life insurance, and stock purchases in a one‐period framework. With exponential utility functions, individuals' life insurance and stock purchases are independent of each other; life insurance purchases are affected only by individuals' future income, bequest intensity, risk attitude, survival probability, and the insurance risk premium; stock purchases are affected only by individuals' risk attitude, the risk‐free rate of return, the stock return, and stock volatility. With power utility functions, life insurance and stock purchases are positively related with each other and are affected by all the factors.
The Demand for Life Insurance in OECD Countries
Authors: Li Donghui , Moshirian Fariborz , Nguyen Pascal , Wee Timothy
Published: August 2007

Abstract

This article examines the determinants of life insurance consumption in OECD countries. Consistent with previous results, we find a significant positive income elasticity of life insurance demand. Demand also increases with the number of dependents and level of education, and decreases with life expectancy and social security expenditure. The country's level of financial development and its insurance market's degree of competition appear to stimulate life insurance sales, whereas high inflation and real interest rates tend to decrease consumption. Overall, life insurance demand is better explained when the product market and socioeconomic factors are jointly considered. In addition, the use of GMM estimates helps reconcile our findings with previous puzzling results based on inconsistent OLS estimates given heteroscedasticity problems in the data.
Capital and Risk Revisited: A Structural Equation Model Approach for Life Insurers
Authors: Baranoff Etti G. , Papadopoulos Savas , Sager Thomas W.
Published: August 2007

Abstract

The role of risk in the capital structure decision of firms is a vast topic in finance. Commonly, models of the interrelationship between risk and capital enumerate as many risk factors as possible by appropriate proxies, with the goal of detailing their individual effects. In this study of the life insurance industry for 1994 through 2000, we take a broader, holistic view of enterprise risk, identifying two groups of insurer risk factors that arise from the major activities of life insurers: investing and underwriting. We call the group of risk factors associated with investing asset risk, and the group associated with underwriting product risk. After specifying other important determinants of capital structure as controls, we allow all other risk factors to find expression in residual error. Within this framework, our focus is to compare two candidate measures for the role of proxy for asset‐related risks. One measure, called regulatory asset risk (RAR), derives from the regulatory tradition of concern with solvency and is related to the C‐1 component of risk‐based capital. The other measure, called opportunity asset risk (OAR), is motivated by traditional finance concerns with market risk and reflects volatility of returns. Product‐related risks are proxied by underwriting exposures in different product lines. We employ structural equation modeling (SEM), which uses longitudinal factor analysis. SEM is an innovative technique for such studies, in dealing effectively with multiple structural equations, autocorrelated panel data, unobserved underlying factors, and other issues that are not simultaneously addressed in other methodologies. We find that RAR and OAR are not equivalent proxies for asset risks. Although overlapping to some extent, each illuminates different aspects of the asset risk–capital interrelationship. In particular, RAR does not seem to affect the capital structure decision of small firms, although OAR does. We interpret this to suggest that small firms as a whole are not as sensitive in their capital decisions to the proxy of regulatory concerns as to the proxy of market opportunity. This contrasts with large insurers, for whom both RAR and OAR have significant effects on capital that comport with the finite risk hypothesis. More detailed analysis suggests that the lack of effect of RAR for small insurers may result from RAR's proxying some factors that induce finite risk for part of the small insurer sample, and other factors that favor the excessive risk hypothesis.
Left Ventricular Volume Reduction: New Dawn or False Horizon? Basic Science and Clinical Doubts
Authors: Lim Kelvin H.H. , Griffiths Elinor J. , Pryn Stephen J. , Callaway Mark , Angelini Gianni D.
Published: August 2007

Abstract Left ventricular volume reduction surgery (LVVR) for end‐stage dilated cardiomyopa‐thy is a surgical option used selectively but with unclear long‐term results. Increasing numbers of reports are appearing in the literature. These should be pooled into an international registry through collaborative efforts that allow for more effective analysis. Furthermore, high priority must be given to identify subgroups of patients who will potentially gain most benefit from LVVR. Basic science may add invaluable data and in this article we describe how intraoperative myocardial biopsies from patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy were utilized to isolate myocytes in an effort to determine differential physiological characteristics at the cellular level. The result showed various degrees of contractile anomalies in response to electrical stimulation associated with defective calcium handling as reflected by measurements of calcium transients. It is hoped that this approach may be extended to preoperative catheter biopsy to gain information that will facilitate patient selection to avoid unnecessary surgical failures.
Surgical Treatment of Vascular Ring Including Right Cervical Aortic Arch
Authors: van Son Jacques A. M. , Bossert Torsten , Mohr Friedrich W.
Published: August 2007

Abstract Cervical aortic arch is a developmental entity consisting of persistence of the right or left third branchial arch and regression of the fourth branchial arches. In most cases, the aorta is redundant and crosses behind the esophagus to the opposite side. In the presence of an aberrant subclavian artery contralateral to the side of the aortic arch and a ligamentum arteriosum, a vascular ring is formed around the trachea and esophagus. Two young patients with right‐sided cervical aortic arch, aberrant left subclavian artery, and ligamentum arteriosum presented with dys‐phagia and exertional dyspnea. In one patient, through a left thoracotomy, the ligamentum arteriosum was divided, and the trachea and esophagus were dissected thoroughly above and below the level of the ring. In addition, the aberrant left subclavian artery was divided at its origin from a large diverticulum and implanted into the left common carotid artery; the aortic di‐verticulum was resected. In the other patient, who had associated 22q11 chromosomal deletion, in addition to left‐sided compression of the trachea and esophagus, there was additional marked compression of the right anterolateral trachea by the redundant ascending aorta. Through a median sternotomy, the ligamentum arteriosum was divided, and the trachea and esophagus were widely mobilized; an additional aortopexy of the ascending aorta to the right of the sternum resulted in the absence of tracheal compression. The cases of the two reported patients illustrate the clinical variability of vascular ring, including a right cervical aortic arch and the consequently versatile surgical approach that is needed to successfully address this combination of vascular anomalies.
Endoscopic Saphenous Vein Harvest Decreases Leg Wound Complication in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Patients
Authors: Kan Chung‐Dann , Luo Chwan‐Yau , Yang Yu‐Jen
Published: August 2007

Abstract Background: Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is the most common procedure performed in adult cardiovascular surgery. The most frequently used conduit is the greater saphenous vein. Using traditional methods, the complication rate of the leg is relatively high (up to 24%). To decrease the complication rate, we used the Endo‐Path to harvest the greater saphenous vein. Methods and Results: From May 1997 through March 1999, a total of 135 patients received the CABG operation. We excluded the patients who died immediately postoperatively or had concomitant surgical procedures. Sixty patients received the endoscopic saphenous vein harvest procedure (group A), while another 59 patients (group B) did not. No important differences were noted between the two groups in respect to the number of distal anastomoses, length of harvested vein, total surgical time, and length of ICU stay. However, the leg wound complication rate decreased from 20.3% to 5.0% (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Although the long‐term patency rate needs time to be proven, the endoscopic greater saphenous vein harvest method is an attractive and effective method.
Proximal Aortic Perfusion with Passive Cerebral Flow: A Method to Prevent Cerebral Embolism in the Arch and Descending Aortic Operation
Authors: Katsumata Takahiro , Westaby Stephen
Published: August 2007

Abstract Antegrade aortic perfusion is preferable in arch and descending aortic operations. We describe a left lateral approach using an ascending aortic cannula, temporarily relocated within the distal aorta to maintain hypothermic cardiopulmonary bypass of the lower torso. This modification provides continual antegrade systemic perfusion and passive retrograde cerebral flow during arch repair. It minimizes the risk of embolization into the brachiocephalic arteries of debris and malperfusion of the dissected aorta.
Intermediate‐term Results of Partial Left Ventriculectomy
Authors: Dowling Robert D. , Koenig Steven , Laureano Mary Ann , Gray Laman A.
Published: August 2007

Abstract Partial left ventriculectomy (PLV) has been introduced as an option for patients with end‐stage dilated cardiomyopathy. We report the result of a prospective trial of PLV in patients with idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy, left ventricular end‐diastolic diameter (LVEDD) > 7 cm, refractory New York Heart Association (NYHA) Class IV symptoms, and depressed exercise oxygen consumption studies. Sixteen patients underwent a PLV with a mean follow‐up of 13 months. Fourteen patients were male. Mean age was 49.6 ± 10.5 years (range 30 to 67 years). Left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improved after surgery from 13.9 ± 5.6 to 21.0 ± 8.4, and this improvement persisted for up to 12 months after operation. LVEDD and NYHA Class also were significantly improved after surgery and for up to 12 months of follow‐up. Operative mortality was 6.25%. Twelve‐month survival was 86% by Kaplan‐Meier analysis. Four (25%) of 16 patients that had initial improvement after PLV developed recurrent heart failure and were listed for transplantation. Freedom from need for listing for heart transplantation was 65% at 12 months. Freedom from death or the need for relisting at 12 months was 56%. PLV can be performed with acceptable early and 12‐month mortality. Significant improvements in LVEF, LVEDD, and NYHA Class are seen at up to 12 months of follow‐up. Some patients will develop recurrent heart failure and require relisting for heart transplantation.
Complications of Port‐Access Cardiac Surgery
Authors: Wimmer‐Greinecker Gerhard , Matheis Georg , Dogan Selami , Aybek Tayfun , Kessler Paul , Westphal Klaus , Moritz Anton
Published: August 2007

Abstract Port‐Access cardiac surgery is a recent technology that is undergoing rapid development. The learning curve associated with this technique is a challenge even for the skilled and experienced cardiac surgeon. Mainly because of femoral cannulation, the use of guidewires, and working through small incisions, Port‐Access cardiac surgery contains certain pitfalls that are clearly associated with the technology involved. These pitfalls currently require troubleshooting, but as the technology progresses, this may become less of an issue. Communicating these pitfalls to others is important to help others to avoid or better manage complications and to contribute to improving the technology of Port‐Access techniques. (J Card Surg 1999; 14:240–245)
Doppler Echocardiography Assessment of Prosthetic Heart Valves
Authors: GRIGG LEEANNE , FULOP JOHN , DANIEL LORRETTA , WEISEL RICHARD , RAKOWSKI HARRY
Published: August 2007

Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography is an accurate noninvasive method for the evaluation of prosthetic valve function. The flow characteristics and pressure gradients of normally functioning mechanical and bioprosthetic valves have been, in general established. Normal functioning mitral valve prostheses have a valve area > 1.8 cm2 with the St. Jude valve having the largest effective valve area and normally functioning aortic prosthetic valves have a peak instantaneous gradient of < 45 mmHg, with the Starr‐Edwards valves (Starr‐Edwards, Irvine CA) showing the highest gradients. The incidence of minimal or mild regurgitation is approximately 15% to 30% in the mitral position and 25% to 50% in the aortic position, with the higher incidence of regurgitation seen with mechanical compared to bioprosthetic valves. Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography can accurately detect patients with prosthetic valvular stenosis. The presence of prosthetic aortic regurgitation can also generally be accurately assessed, except in the presence of both prosthetic aortic and mitral valves. Assessment of prosthetic mitral regurgitation remains limited due to significant attenuation of the ultrasound beam by the prosthesis and the frequent underestimation of severity of regurgitation. Other limitations of transthoracic studies include assessment of leaflet morphology, detection of vegetations and valve abscesses, and differentiation between valvular and paravalvular regurgitation.
Left Ventricular Outflow Tract Obstruction Following Mitral Valve Replacement with Carpentier‐Edwards Prosthesis
Authors: JACOBS LARRY E. , KOTLER MORRIS N. , IOLI ALFRED
Published: August 2007

Left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction is a rare complication of mitral valve replacement. In this article, we describe three patients in whom left ventricular outflow tract obstruction occurred following Carpentier‐Edwards porcine mitral valve replacement. All three patients presented with symptomatic mitral regurgitation (angiographic grade 3–4) requiring mitral valve replacement. Preoperatively there was no evidence of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy by physical exam, echocardiography, or by cardiac catheterization. At the time of surgery all three were shown to have severe mitral valve prolapse. The native anterior mitral leaflet was left intact and pledgeted to the mitral annulus. Following surgery a new systolic murmur was appreciated. Echocardiographic exam visualized obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract by the prosthetic strut in two cases and by a flail anterior leaflet in one case. Continuous‐wave Doppler measured a calculated peak gradient of 72 to 81 mmHg across the left ventricular outflow tract. In one case simultaneous Doppler and cardiac catheterization confirmed the diagnosis and severity of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Mechanisms of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction following Carpentier‐Edwards porcine mitral valve replacement are discussed. These three cases highlight the importance of echo‐Doppler techniques in understanding the mechanism of newly detected systolic murmurs following mitral valve replacement.
Intraoperative Assessment of Myocardial Perfusion Using Contrast Echocardiography
Authors: SPOTNITZ WILLIAM D. , KAUL SANJIV
Published: August 2007

Myocardial contrast echocardiography is a new technique capable of assessing regional myocardial perfusion in vivo in real time. This article reviews the background, principles, experimental validation, and clinical uses of intraoperative myocardial contrast echocardiography. Data can be derived both for online visual and computer analyses. The technique can be useful in determining the sequence of bypass graft placement and the success of graft anastamoses. Anastamoses can be revised immediately if needed. It is hoped that this technique will improve intraoperative myocardial preservation and will diminish the rate of perioperative myocardial infarction.
Intraoperative Echocardiography and Doppler Color Flow Mapping in Freehand Allograft Aortic Valve and Root Replacement
Authors: BOLGER ANN F. , BARTZOKIS THOMAS , MILLER D. CRAIG
Published: August 2007

Intraoperative epicardial echocardiography and color flow Doppler were performed before and after cardiopulmonary bypass in 17 consecutive patients undergoing 20 freehand allograft aortic valve replacements. Native aortic valves were replaced in 12, and prostheses in 8 patients. Precardiopulmonary bypass echocardiography estimates of annular diameter guided allograft selection and predicted length of allograft aortic root required, defined coronary situs, and revealed other cardiac abnormalities. These included unanticipated severe mitral regurgitation (which precluded allograft aortic valve replacements in one patient), left‐to‐right shunts in the membranous septum, ascending aortic dissection, and aortic root pathology requiring coronary reimplantation or bypass. Postcardiopulmonary bypass echocardiography demonstrated acceptable competency of 18/19 allograft valves (mild or no aortic insufficiency), and successful repair of 3/4 shunts. Mild mitral regurgitation was detected more often at postcardiopulmonary bypass than precardiopulmonary bypass (15 vs 11 cases) and postcardiopulmonary bypass estimates of mitral regurgitation severity corollated well with subsequent postoperative follow‐up. IOE allows selection and thawing of the allograft valves prior to aortic cross clamping, minimizing cross‐clamp time. It detects important concomitant cardiac abnormalities, and predicts postoperative allograft valve and mitral competency. Intraoperative echocardiography Doppler, is therefore, a useful adjunct for allograft aortic valve replacements or aortic root replacement.