bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two-phase model of the basal ganglia: implications for discontinuous control of the motor system
Authors: Lisman John
Published: September 2014

In this article, I point out that simple one-phase models of the role of the basal ganglia in action selection have a problem. Furthermore, I suggest a solution with major implications for the organization of the action-selection and motor systems. In current models, the striatum evaluates multiple potential actions by adding biases based on previous conditioning. These biases may arise in both the direct (bias for) and indirect (bias against) pathways. Together, these biases influence which action is ultimately chosen. For efficient conditioning to occur, a positive outcome must selectively strengthen the striatal bias for the chosen action (via a dopaminergic mechanism). This is problematic, however, because all potential action choices have influenced firing patterns in striatal cells during the selection process; it is therefore unclear how the synapses that represent the chosen plan could be selectively strengthened. I suggest a simple solution in which the striatum has two functional phases. In the first phase, the basal ganglia provide biases for multiple potential actions (using both the direct and indirect pathways), leading to the choice of a single action in the cortex. In the second phase, an efference copy of the chosen action is sent to the striatum, where it contributes to the establishment of the eligibility trace for that action. This trace, when acted on by subsequent dopaminergic reinforcement, leads to specific strengthening of the bias only for the chosen action. Consistent with this model, recordings show post-choice imposition onto the striatum of signals corresponding to the chosen action. The existence of dual phases of basal ganglia function implies that decisions about action choice are sent to the motor system in a discontinuous manner. This would not be problematic if the motor system also operated discontinuously. I will review evidence suggesting that this is the case, notably that action is organized by approximately 10 Hz oscillations.
A continuous-time neural model for sequential action
Authors: Kachergis George , Wyatte Dean , O'Reilly Randall C. , de Kleijn Roy , Hommel Bernhard
Published: September 2014

Action selection, planning and execution are continuous processes that evolve over time, responding to perceptual feedback as well as evolving top-down constraints. Existing models of routine sequential action (e.g. coffee- or pancake-making) generally fall into one of two classes: hierarchical models that include hand-built task representations, or heterarchical models that must learn to represent hierarchy via temporal context, but thus far lack goal-orientedness. We present a biologically motivated model of the latter class that, because it is situated in the Leabra neural architecture, affords an opportunity to include both unsupervised and goal-directed learning mechanisms. Moreover, we embed this neurocomputational model in the theoretical framework of the theory of event coding (TEC), which posits that actions and perceptions share a common representation with bidirectional associations between the two. Thus, in this view, not only does perception select actions (along with task context), but actions are also used to generate perceptions (i.e. intended effects). We propose a neural model that implements TEC to carry out sequential action control in hierarchically structured tasks such as coffee-making. Unlike traditional feedforward discrete-time neural network models, which use static percepts to generate static outputs, our biological model accepts continuous-time inputs and likewise generates non-stationary outputs, making short-timescale dynamic predictions.
Hydrogen Sulfide Generated byl-Cysteine Desulfhydrase Acts Upstream of Nitric Oxide to Modulate Abscisic Acid-Dependent Stomatal Closure
Authors: Scuffi Denise , Álvarez Consolación , Laspina Natalia , Gotor Cecilia , Lamattina Lorenzo , García-Mata Carlos
Published: September 2014

Abscisic acid (ABA) is a well-studied regulator of stomatal movement. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a small signaling gas molecule involved in key physiological processes in mammals, has been recently reported as a new component of the ABA signaling network in stomatal guard cells. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), H2S is enzymatically produced in the cytosol through the activity of l-cysteine desulfhydrase (DES1). In this work, we used DES1 knockout Arabidopsis mutant plants (des1) to study the participation of DES1 in the cross talk between H2S and nitric oxide (NO) in the ABA-dependent signaling network in guard cells. The results show that ABA did not close the stomata in isolated epidermal strips of des1 mutants, an effect that was restored by the application of exogenous H2S. Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction analysis demonstrated that ABA induces DES1 expression in guard cell-enriched RNA extracts from wild-type Arabidopsis plants. Furthermore, stomata from isolated epidermal strips of Arabidopsis ABA receptor mutant pyrabactin-resistant1 (pyr1)/pyrabactin-like1 (pyl1)/pyl2/pyl4 close in response to exogenous H2S, suggesting that this gasotransmitter is acting downstream, although acting independently of the ABA receptor cannot be ruled out with this data. However, the Arabidopsis clade-A PROTEIN PHOSPHATASE2C mutant abscisic acid-insensitive1 (abi1-1) does not close the stomata when epidermal strips were treated with H2S, suggesting that H2S required a functional ABI1. Further studies to unravel the cross talk between H2S and NO indicate that (1) H2S promotes NO production, (2) DES1 is required for ABA-dependent NO production, and (3) NO is downstream of H2S in ABA-induced stomatal closure. Altogether, data indicate that DES1 is a unique component of ABA signaling in guard cells.
Crystal structure of 3,6-bis(2-chlorophenyl)-1,2,4,5-tetrazine: the acaricide clofentezine
Authors: Kang Gihaeng , Cho Seonghwa , Lee Sangjin , Kim Tae Ho
Published: September 2014

The whole molecule of the title compound, C14H8Cl2N4, is generated by inversion symmetry. The dihedral angle between the 2-chlorophenyl ring and the tetrazine ring is 47.65 (5)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked by slipped parallel π–π interactions [centroid–centroid distance = 3.8199 (5), normal distance = 3.3127 (8), slippage 1.902 Å] forming columns along thea-axis direction.
An unconventional method for measuring the TcL3-edge of technetium compounds
Authors: Blanchard Peter E. R. , Reynolds Emily , Kennedy Brendan J. , Ling Chris D. , Zhang Zhaoming , Thorogood Gordon , Cowie Bruce C. C. , Thomsen Lars
Published: September 2014

TcL3-edge XANES spectra have been collected on powder samples of SrTcO3(octahedral Tc4+) and NH4TcO4(tetrahedral Tc7+) immobilized in an epoxy resin. Features in the TcL3-edge XANES spectra are compared with the pre-edge feature of the TcK-edge as well as other 4dtransition metalL3-edges. Evidence of crystal field splitting is obvious in the TcL3-edge, which is sensitive to the coordination number and oxidation state of the Tc cation. The TcL3absorption edge energy difference between SrTcO3(Tc4+) and NH4TcO4(Tc7+) shows that the energy shift at the TcL3-edge is an effective tool for studying changes in the oxidation states of technetium compounds. The TcL3-edge spectra are compared with those obtained from Mo and Ru oxide standards with various oxidation states and coordination environments. Most importantly, fitting the TcL3-edge to component peaks can provide direct evidence of crystal field splitting that cannot be obtained from the TcK-edge.
Biological soft X-ray tomography on beamline 2.1 at the Advanced Light Source
Authors: Le Gros Mark A. , McDermott Gerry , Cinquin Bertrand P. , Smith Elizabeth A. , Do Myan , Chao Weilun L. , Naulleau Patrick P. , Larabell Carolyn A.
Published: September 2014

Beamline 2.1 (XM-2) is a transmission soft X-ray microscope in sector 2 of the Advanced Light Source at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. XM-2 was designed, built and is now operated by the National Center for X-ray Tomography as a National Institutes of Health Biomedical Technology Research Resource. XM-2 is equipped with a cryogenic rotation stage to enable tomographic data collection from cryo-preserved cells, including large mammalian cells. During data collection the specimen is illuminated with `water window' X-rays (284–543 eV). Illuminating photons are attenuated an order of magnitude more strongly by biomolecules than by water. Consequently, differences in molecular composition generate quantitative contrast in images of the specimen. Soft X-ray tomography is an information-rich three-dimensional imaging method that can be applied either as a standalone technique or as a component modality in correlative imaging studies.
Adsorption structure of dimethyl ether on silicalite-1 zeolite determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction
Authors: Fujiyama Shinjiro , Seino Shintaro , Kamiya Natsumi , Nishi Koji , Yokomori Yoshinobu
Published: September 2014

The adsorption structures of dimethyl ether (DME) on silicalite-1 zeolite (MFI-type) are determined using single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The structure of low-loaded DME-silicalite-1 indicates that all DME molecules are located in the sinusoidal channel, which is the most stable sorption site based on the van der Waals interaction between DME and the framework. The configuration of guest molecules (linear or bent) plays an important role in determining where the stable sorption site is in the pore system of MFI-type zeolites. Bent molecules favor the sinusoidal channel, while linear molecules favor the straight channel. The contribution of DME–DME interactions is considerable in the high-loaded DME-silicalite-1 structure.
Bond valence at mixed occupancy sites. I. Regular polyhedra
Authors: Bosi Ferdinando
Published: September 2014

Bond valence sum calculations at mixed occupancy sites show the occurrence of systematic errors leading to apparent violations of the Valence Sum Rule (bond valence theory) in regular and unstrained bonding environments. The systematic deviation of the bond valence from the expected value is observed in the long-range structure, and is discussed from geometric and algebraic viewpoints. In the valence–length diagram, such a deviation arises from discrepancies between the intersection points of the long-range bond valences and the theoretical bond valences with the valence–length curves of involved cations. Three factors cause systematic errors in the bond valences: difference in atomic valences, bond valence parametersRi(the length of a bond of unit valence) and bond valence parametersbi(the bond softness) between the involved cations over the same crystallographic site. One important consequence strictly related to the systematic errors is that they lead to erroneous bond strain values for mixed occupancy sites indicating underbonding or overbonding that actually does not exist.
Structure of a new chloroauric acid
Authors: Kubus Mariusz , Ströbele Markus , Meyer H.-Jürgen
Published: September 2014

The new tetrachloroaurate ethanol hydrate HAuCl4·0.65C2H5OH·1.35H2O was prepared from chloroauric acid trihydrate in ethanol. The compound crystallizes in the triclinic space group P \bar 1 (No. 2). The [AuCl4]−units in the structure have approximately square-planar symmetry, forming chains parallel to the crystallographicb-axis direction.
A drunken search in crystallization space
Authors: Fazio Vincent J. , Peat Thomas S. , Newman Janet
Published: September 2014

The REMARK280 field of the Protein Data Bank is the richest open source of successful crystallization information. The REMARK280 field is optional and currently uncurated, so significant effort needs to be applied to extract reliable data. There are well over 15 000 crystallization conditions available commercially from 12 different vendors. After putting the PDB crystallization information and the commercial cocktail data into a consistent format, these data are used to extract information about the overlap between the two sets of crystallization conditions. An estimation is made as to which commercially available conditions are most appropriate for producing well diffracting crystals by looking at which commercial conditions are found unchanged (or almost unchanged) in the PDB. Further analyses include which commercial kits are the most appropriate for shotgun or more traditional approaches to crystallization screening. This analysis suggests that almost 40% of the crystallization conditions found currently in the PDB are identical or very similar to a commercial condition.
An air-filled microgripper in microassembly system with coaxial alignment function
Authors: Ye Xin , Shao Chao , Zhang Zhijing , Gao Jun , Yu Yang
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to design a microgripper that can achieve nondestructive gripping of a miniaturized ultra-thin-walled cylindrical part.

Design/methodology/approach

– The microgripper is mainly made of an inflatable silica gel gasbag, which can minimize the damage to the part in the gripping process. This paper introduces the design principle of a flexible air-filled microgripper, which is applied in an in-house microassembly system with coaxial alignment function. Its parameters and performance specifications have been obtained by simulation, experiment demarcating. The results show that the microgripper is able to grasp an ultra-thin-walled part non-destructively.

Findings

– For the microgripper, finite element simulations and experiments were carried out, and both results indicate that the microgripper can achieve nondestructive gripping of a miniaturized ultra-thin-walled cylindrical part, with good stability, great grasping force and high repeat positioning accuracy.

Originality/value

– Gripping the ultra-thin-walled part may lead to deformation and destruction easily. It has been a big bottleneck hindering successful assembly. This article introduces a novel microgripper using an inflatable sac. The work is interesting from an industrial point of view for a specific category of assembly applications. It provides a theoretical guidance and technical support to design a microgripper for a miniaturized ultra-thin-walled part of different sizes.
Does job position moderate the relationship between gender and ethics?: a cross-cultural analysis
Authors: Chen Chung-wen
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between gender and ethics, the interaction of job position and gender on ethics, and the three-way interacting effects of cultural values, job position, and gender on ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

– The individual-level data were from the 2005-2008 wave of World Values Survey data set and the cultural values were from the GLOBE study. The research contained 26,639 subjects from 30 nations and used HLM to conduct data analysis.

Findings

– Results showed that men are more likely than women to justify ethically suspect behaviors. In addition, under high in-group collectivism, the ethical difference between genders tends to decrease at high job positions and under high performance orientation, the ethical difference between genders tends to increase at high job positions.

Research limitations/implications

– This research depends on secondary data; it is therefore impossible for the author to control the data collection process, which could be an issue for discussion. In addition, because of limited available studies to refer to, the formation of the individual-level moderator, job position, might cause some attention.

Practical implications

– Corporate education and training in regards to ethical issues becomes even more vital, especially for men, since the statistical results showed that men are more likely than women to be deviant. Meanwhile, organizations can help themselves by recruiting a greater number of females, as this study shows that females are seen to make more ethically sound decisions than males. Furthermore, under the contexts of high in-group collectivism and low performance orientation, both genders in higher job positions tend to be more unethical than people in lower positions. Since people in higher positions have the right and the power to set the ethical tone for the organization (Clinard, 1983; Posner and Schmidt, 1992), it becomes particularly essential for firms to pay close attention to ethical issues in higher job positions.

Originality/value

– The study proved that the relationship between gender and ethics is more complicated than expected; job position, and cultural values can jointly influence the individual-level relationship. In addition, since human behavior is complicated, employing multilevel method to investigate humane behaviors in the field of management becomes necessary in the future.
Deterministic mathematical morphology for CAD/CAM
Authors: Sarabia-Pérez Rubén , Jimeno-Morenilla Antonio , Molina-Carmona Rafael
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a new geometric model based on the mathematical morphology paradigm, specialized to provide determinism to the classic morphological operations. The determinism is needed to model dynamic processes that require an order of application, as is the case for designing and manufacturing objects in CAD/CAM environments.

Design/methodology/approach

– The basic trajectory-based operation is the basis of the proposed morphological specialization. This operation allows the definition of morphological operators that obtain sequentially ordered sets of points from the boundary of the target objects, inexistent determinism in the classical morphological paradigm. From this basic operation, the complete set of morphological operators is redefined, incorporating the concept of boundary and determinism: trajectory-based erosion and dilation, and other morphological filtering operations.

Findings

– This new morphological framework allows the definition of complex three-dimensional objects, providing arithmetical support to generating machining trajectories, one of the most complex problems currently occurring in CAD/CAM.

Originality/value

– The model proposes the integration of the processes of design and manufacture, so that it avoids the problems of accuracy and integrity that present other classic geometric models that divide these processes in two phases. Furthermore, the morphological operative is based on points sets, so the geometric data structures and the operations are intrinsically simple and efficient. Another important value that no excessive computational resources are needed, because only the points in the boundary are processed.
A comparative study on crack identification of structures from the changes in natural frequencies using GA and PSO
Authors: Mohan S.C. , Yadav Amit , Kumar Maiti Dipak , Maity Damodar
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The early detection of cracks, corrosion and structural failure in aging structures is one of the major challenges in the civil, mechanical and aircraft industries. Common inspection techniques are time consuming and hence can have strong economic implications due to downtime. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– As a result, during the past decade a number of methodologies have been proposed for detecting crack in structure based on variations in the structure's dynamic characteristics. This work showcases the efficacy of particle swarm optimization (PSO) and genetic algorithm (GA) in damage assessment of structures.

Findings

– Efficiency of these tools has been tested on structures like beam, plane and space truss. The results show the effectiveness of PSO in crack identification and the possibility of implementing it in a real-time structural health monitoring system for aircraft and civil structures.

Originality/value

– The methodology presented establishes the PSO as robust and competent tool over GA for crack identification using changes in natural frequencies.
A computational investigation for propagation of elasto-viscoplastic zones in the shock loaded circular plates
Authors: Zajkani Asghar , Darvizeh Abolfazl , Darvizeh Mansour
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to introduce a computational time dependent modeling to investigate propagation of elastic-viscoplastic zones in the shock wave loaded circular plates.

Design/methodology/approach

– Constitutive equations are implemented incrementally by the Von-Kármán finite deflection system which is coupled with a mixed strain hardening rule and physical-base viscoplastic models. Time integrations of the equations are done by the return mapping technique through the cutting-plane algorithm. An integrated solution is established by pseudo-spectral collocation methodology. The Chebyshev basis functions are utilized to evaluate the coefficients of displacement fields. Temporal terms are discretized by the Houbolt marching method. Spatial linearizations are accomplished by the quadratic extrapolation technique.

Findings

– Results of the center point deflections, effective plastic strain and stress (dynamic flow stress) and temperature rise are compared for three features of the Von-Kármán system. Identifying time history of resultant stresses, propagations of the viscoplastic plastic zones are illustrated for two circumstances; with considering strain rate and hardening effects, and without them. Some of modeling and computation aspects are discussed, carefully. When the results are compared with experimental data of shock wave loadings and finite element simulations, good agreements between them are observed.

Originality/value

– This computational approach makes coupling the structural equations with the physical descriptions of the high rate deformation through step-by-step spectral solution of the constitutive equations.
Mentoring up-cycled: creating a community-based intervention for sexually abused adolescents
Authors: Williams Javonda , Nelson-Gardell Debra
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to detail a project that created a community-based mentoring intervention for sexually abused children and adolescents. The project features the use of family and community strengths, trauma sensitivity, current research and ecological theory to develop a curriculum for training mentors.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study used Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) methods to create a community-based intervention designed for sexually abused children and adolescents. This model supports the building and maintenance of the often fluid and relationship-driven processes that are characteristic of CBPR. The stages included: identification of research questions; assessment of community strengths, assets and challenges; defining priorities; developing research and data collection methodologies; collecting and analysing data; interpretation of findings; dissemination of findings; and applying findings to address action.

Findings

– The results include a recommendation to include community members in interventions for sexually abused adolescents.

Research limitations/implications

– The results of this study include recommendations for a culturally relevant training curriculum for mentors of sexually abused children and adolescents. Hallmarks of the resulting curriculum included using a hybrid of natural and programme mentors and inclusion of trauma sensitivity in training the mentors. The results from the pilot study are not generalisable since the pilot only included a small number of mentors and the effectiveness of the intervention was not tested. Further research is needed to determine the effectiveness of the intervention.

Practical implications

– The paper includes implications for further development of a mentoring curriculum for sexually abused children and adolescents. This curriculum promotes several potential benefits, including: incorporation of families and communities in discussion and awareness of sexual abuse and trauma sensitivity; and formal training for individuals who have the potential to remain important in the life of the child or adolescent long after formal services have ceased.

Originality/value

– The literature shows a lack of community level interventions for sexually abused children and adolescents. The focus of this project was to expand the traditional ecological context of mentoring from a micro or individual level intervention to a community level intervention.
Good idea, bad prerequisite, zero result – the meaning of context in implementing aftercare for young people in secure unit care
Authors: Andersson Vogel Maria , Sallnäs Marie , Lundström Tommy
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to report results from a quasi-experimental study of outcomes of a leaving care project for youth placed in secure unit care and second, based on the (zero) results, to analyse and discuss the interplay between organisational boundaries, social work and the target group when implementing a project such as the one studied.

Design/methodology/approach

– The outcome study had a quasi-experimental design. The young people in the leaving care programme were compared with a matched reference group who did not get the special leaving care services. Data were collected (structured Adolescent Drug Abuse Diagnosis-interviews) when the young people entered secure units and on follow-up (registered crime and re-entry into care).

Findings

– The outcome study showed that the leaving care project had no effect on the young people's situation at follow-up regarding re-offending and re-entry into secure unit care. This is understood and discussed in relation to the poor implementation of the leaving care project along with an inbuilt conflict between state and local municipality that overshadowed the good intentions of the project.

Research limitations/implications

– The effect study has a quasi-experimental design, and hence differences between the project group and the comparison group at T1 cannot be fully precluded, although nothing is pointing in such a direction. The unclear content of the intervention makes it difficult to decode how the variation in the support given to the young people eventually impacted the results. The zero-results apply to group level, but that may not be valid for each and every one in the project.

Practical implications

– According to earlier research, a key person following young persons through different phases of the care trajectory may be of importance. Learning from the CoC project, one can conclude that such a key person should preferably take the role of advocate for the young person, and not be an administrator mainly concerned with coordinating other professionals. Further, when planning and financing is split between organisations, that split hinders efforts to actually mobilise support for young people leaving secure unit care.

Originality/value

– Few leaving care services are designed for youth with severe behavioural problems and hence, the research is scarce. This study contributes with important knowledge about leaving care interventions for the target group.
MEDIA PROTECT – a programme targeting parents to prevent children's problematic use of screen media
Authors: Bleckmann Paula , Rehbein Florian , Seidel Michael , Mößle Thomas
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe theoretical background, concepts and materials for MEDIA PROTECT, a new elementary-school parent counselling programme to reduce problematic and, in the long term, addictive use of screen media via slowing the increase in screen equipment in children's bedrooms and promoting screen-free leisure activities. The aim of the pilot phase of MEDIA PROTECT was the implementation at a project school with a process evaluation by parents as well as teachers as a basis for improvements prior to a subsequent randomised controlled trial phase.

Design/methodology/approach

– At t1 and t2, questionnaires were handed out to all 220 families to record media use routines and media-related parenting styles. Advice on media education, information on media effects, plus hands-on technical support for installing protection software were offered to meet the support needs of different parental target groups recorded at t1 (pre-intervention). At t2, parents and teachers assessed MEDIA PROTECT regarding organisation, facilitators, content and duration/length.

Findings

– In the pilot phase, 60 per cent of families attended the 45-minute face-to-face input, for which high overall satisfaction (53 per cent ‘very high’, 45 per cent ‘high’) was reported. The written material was also rated ‘good’ (59 per cent) or ‘very good’ (33 per cent). Parents reported moderate positive changes in media-related parenting style. Teachers voted for the inclusion of a mandatory half-day teacher training session in the programme.

Originality/value

– The primary prevention of problematic media use is a neglected issue. This is despite the fact that ever younger age groups spend increasing portions of their time with screen media, which impairs physical, socio-emotional and cognitive development of children, especially those who are already vulnerable and disadvantaged.
Luxury brand commitment: a study of Chinese consumers
Authors: Li Ning , Robson Andrew , Coates Nigel
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to assess brand commitment levels demonstrated by luxury brand consumers in China and seeks to identify the most significant combination of antecedents from brand affect, image, value and trust.

Design/methodology/approach

– A self-completion, researcher-supported questionnaire was disseminated within four Beijing shopping malls, generating 501 participants. The questionnaire comprised a range of scale sets covering brand affect, image, value, trust and commitment. The analysis comprised a summary overview of brand attainment followed by a substantive analysis involving confirmatory factor analysis and structural equations modelling to identify the most significant combination of antecedents relating to brand commitment.

Findings

– Regarding absolute consumer endorsement, brand affect was the most positive area, with image, trust and value representing relatively positive brand attributes. Declared commitment was relatively low, representing a potential commercial challenge. Value, represented by its social and symbolic components, and trust were identified as providing a significant and direct explanation of consumer commitment, represented by its affective and continuance dimensions. The role of value and trust must be central in marketing luxury brands given their direct and combined impact on consumer commitment.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings are transferable to other “Tier 1” locations in China, but take no account of either consumer behaviour outside of these wealthier conurbations, or segmentation of the associated markets.

Originality/value

– Geographic setting and consideration of a vast consumer group provides research value and contribution to marketing planning in the pursuit of higher levels of consumer commitment to their brands.
The impact of cultural sensitivity and information exchange on relationship quality
Authors: T.M. Nguyen Trang , Dinh Nguyen Tho
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the mediating roles of cultural sensitivity and information exchange in the impact of market orientation on relationship quality.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using a survey data set collected from a systematic sample of 297 Vietnamese exporters, the authors tested a model that depicts the direct and indirect effects of market orientation on relationship quality.

Findings

– The authors found that market orientation has both direct and indirect effects, mediated by cultural sensitivity and information exchange, on relationship quality.

Research limitations/implications

– A major limitation of this study is the investigation only one side of the dyad, the exporter. Future research should use data collected from two sides of the dyad, the exporter and the importer.

Practical implications

– The results of this study suggest that, exporters, who want to maintain high quality relationships with importers, should adopt a market-oriented strategy to enhance the degree of cultural sensitization to as well as the level of exchange of information with their importers.

Originality/value

– This study enhances the understanding of predictors of relationship quality in export markets by confirming the mediating role of cultural sensitivity and information exchange in the impact of market orientation on relationship quality.
Business process management and service delivery; a case of Uganda's public entities
Authors: Kamukama Nixon , Tumwine Sulait , Opiso Julius , Korutaro Nkundabanyanga Stephen
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to test empirically a variety of hypotheses related to business process management (BPM) and service delivery within public entities and contracting companies in Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

– A valid research instrument was utilized to conduct a survey on 20 government ministries, ten government departments and 13 service providers (contractors) who are representative of the 40 government entities and 25 service providers in Uganda. Correlation and regression analysis were conducted to ascertain the validity of the hypotheses.

Findings

– Statistical support was found for eight out of the nine hypotheses tested.

Research limitations/implications

– Only a single research methodological approach was employed, future research through interviews could be undertaken. Multiple respondents in public entities and service providers were studied, neglecting other key stakeholders like service users. Finally, BPM was studied and by the virtual of the results, there are other elements that contribute to service delivery that were not part of this study.

Practical implications

– There is need to intensify initiatives to encourage greater understanding and acceptance of BPM, employ a viable BPM strategy that includes risk management, building high-level innovation, strong human resource capacity, providers expertise in order to provide optimal service to both service buyers and users.

Originality/value

– This is the first paper in sub-Saharan Africa to tests empirically the relationship between BPM and service delivery in the Ugandan context of service buyers and providers and provides support for the relationship and process management.
Impacts of Privatization of Customary Land Rights in Zambia: A Comparative Study of Rural and Peri‐urban Locations
Authors: Ng'ombe Austine , Keivani Ramin , Mattingly Michael , Stubbs Michael
Published: September 2014

In its quest for development, Zambia is pursuing a land policy that facilitates privatization of customary land. This article investigates the effects of privatization in terms of how it shapes people's behaviour and perception of private tenure and related tenure dynamics. Findings have shown that the appetite to privatize land is growing stronger in peri‐urban areas as land becomes more scarce. Furthermore, privatization of land appears to be a threat to traditional political structures as allegiance and loyalty towards chiefs diminish and tension and struggles over land in peri‐urban areas increase. Similarly, privatization of land erodes people's faith in the role that cultural and ancestral beliefs play in traditional land management. Also, people in rural areas tend to favour private tenure more if ‘privatization of customary land’ means allocation of land to outsiders. If, by contrast, the phrase is taken to mean communities registering their own land, peri‐urban communities tend to have a stronger desire to register land. Furthermore, rural communities were found to be less informed about land policy and seemed less keen to be involved in land policy processes when compared to peri‐urban residents. However, rural people may have no reason to inform themselves about land policy until they realise that the policy is likely to affect them.
DEMONSTRATING THE VALIDITY OF TWIN RESEARCH IN CRIMINOLOGY
Authors: BARNES J. C. , WRIGHT JOHN PAUL , BOUTWELL BRIAN B. , SCHWARTZ JOSEPH A. , CONNOLLY ERIC J. , NEDELEC JOSEPH L. , BEAVER KEVIN M.
Published: September 2014

In a recent article published in Criminology, Burt and Simons () claimed that the statistical violations of the classical twin design render heritability studies useless. Claiming quantitative genetics is “fatally flawed” and describing the results generated from these models as “preposterous,” Burt and Simons took the unprecedented step to call for abandoning heritability studies and their constituent findings. We show that their call for an “end to heritability studies” was premature, misleading, and entirely without merit. Specifically, we trace the history of behavioral genetics and show that 1) the Burt and Simons critique dates back 40 years and has been subject to a broad array of empirical investigations, 2) the violation of assumptions in twin models does not invalidate their results, and 3) Burt and Simons created a distorted and highly misleading portrait of behavioral genetics and those who use quantitative genetic approaches.
Functional and structural diversity in GH62 α‐L‐arabinofuranosidases from the thermophilic fungus Scytalidium thermophilum
Authors: Kaur Amrit Pal , Nocek Boguslaw P. , Xu Xiaohui , Lowden Michael J. , Leyva Juan Francisco , Stogios Peter J. , Cui Hong , Di Leo Rosa , Powlowski Justin , Tsang Adrian , Savchenko Alexei
Published: September 2014

The genome of the thermophilic fungus Scytalidium thermophilum (strain CBS 625.91) harbours a wide range of genes involved in carbohydrate degradation, including three genes, abf62A, abf62B and abf62C, predicted to encode glycoside hydrolase family 62 (GH62) enzymes. Transcriptome analysis showed that only abf62A and abf62C are actively expressed during growth on diverse substrates including straws from barley, alfalfa, triticale and canola. The abf62A and abf62C genes were expressed in Escherichia coli and the resulting recombinant proteins were characterized. Calcium‐free crystal structures of Abf62C in apo and xylotriose bound forms were determined to 1.23 and 1.48 Å resolution respectively. Site‐directed mutagenesis confirmed Asp55, Asp171 and Glu230 as catalytic triad residues, and revealed the critical role of non‐catalytic residues Asp194, Trp229 and Tyr338 in positioning the scissile α‐L‐arabinofuranoside bond at the catalytic site. Further, the +2R substrate‐binding site residues Tyr168 and Asn339, as well as the +2NR residue Tyr226, are involved in accommodating long‐chain xylan polymers. Overall, our structural and functional analysis highlights characteristic differences between Abf62A and Abf62C, which represent divergent subgroups in the GH62 family.
Topical fentanyl stimulates healing of ischemic wounds in diabetic rats 局部芬太尼麻醉可以促进糖尿病大鼠缺血性伤口的愈合
Authors: Gupta Mihir , Poonawala Tasneem , Farooqui Mariya , Ericson Marna E , Gupta Kalpna
Published: September 2014

Background

Topically applied opioids promote angiogenesis and healing of ischemic wounds in rats. We examined if topical fentanyl stimulates wound healing in diabetic rats by stimulating growth‐promoting signaling, angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis and nerve regeneration.

Methods

We used Zucker diabetic fatty rats that develop obesity and diabetes on a high fat diet due to a mutation in the Leptin receptor. Fentanyl blended with hydrocream was applied topically on ischemic wounds twice daily, and wound closure was analyzed regularly. Wound histology was analyzed by hematoxylin and eosin staining. Angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, nerve fibers and phospho‐platelet derived growth factor receptor‐β (PDGFR‐β) were visualized by CD31‐, lymphatic vessel endothelium‐1, protein gene product 9.5‐ and anti‐phospho PDGFR‐β‐immunoreactivity, respectively. Nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and PDGFR‐β signaling were analyzed using Western immunoblotting.

Results

Fentanyl significantly promoted wound closure as compared to phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS). Histology scores were significantly higher in fentanyl‐treated wounds, indicative of increased granulation tissue formation, reduced edema and inflammation, and increased matrix deposition. Fentanyl treatment resulted in increased wound angiogenesis, lymphatic vasculature, nerve fibers, nitric oxide, NOS and PDGFR‐β signaling as compared to PBS. Phospho‐PDGFR‐β co‐localized with CD31 co‐staining for vasculature.

Conclusions

Topically applied fentanyl promotes closure of ischemic wounds in diabetic rats. Increased angiogenesis, lymphangiogenesis, peripheral nerve regeneration, NO and PDGFR‐β signaling are associated with fentanyl‐induced tissue remodeling and wound healing.
Evaluation of a novel breast reconstruction technique using the Braxon® acellular dermal matrix: a new muscle‐sparing breast reconstruction
Authors: Berna Giorgio , Cawthorn Simon J. , Papaccio Guido , Balestrieri Nicola
Published: September 2014

Background

Implant‐based breast reconstruction is becoming increasingly popular because of the widespread adoption of acellular dermal matrix (ADM), which allows surgeons to obtain good aesthetic results with fewer operations. To develop more conservative surgical techniques, a retrospective, three‐centre, proof‐of‐concept study was performed to study the effectiveness of a new, immediate, muscle‐sparing breast reconstruction technique using the patented Braxon® ADM, which enables subcutaneous positioning of the breast implant without detaching the pectoralis major.

Methods

Ethics committee of the study coordinating centre approved medical record review on 19 women who underwent muscle‐sparing breast reconstruction between November 2012 and January 2014. The first 10 implants were performed using 0.9‐mm‐thick porcine ADM, with preservatives. In the subsequent 15 implants, the product was changed to 0.6‐mm‐thick porcine dry ADM, without preservatives.

Results

Nineteen patients (25 implants) received six bilateral and 13 unilateral muscle‐sparing breast reconstructions. For the first type of ADM used (0.9‐mm‐thick with preservatives), the rate of implant loss was 12% (n = 3) because of seroma (8%, n = 2) and infection (4%, n = 1). Minor complications, such as seroma (8%, n = 2), occurred when using the 0.6‐mm‐thick Braxon® ADM and were treated by aspiration. Symmetrical and natural breasts with good shape, ptosis and softness to the touch were obtained. None of the patients reported experiencing pain.

Conclusions

The preliminary results are encouraging from aesthetic and clinical viewpoints. Further studies are planned to evaluate long‐term results.
4 Growth and Decline in Classic Maya Puuc Political Economies
Authors: Isendahl Christian , Dunning Nicholas P. , Sabloff Jeremy A.
Published: September 2014

The Classic period Puuc region presents Maya archaeologists with significant challenges. One challenge to interpretation lies in the fact that, despite a form of agro‐urban settlement that proved highly resilient in the Maya Lowlands overall, Puuc cities flourished relatively briefly, beginning on a grand scale in the sixth century C.E. and with a halt in major building construction and depopulation in the tenth century C.E. This chapter focuses on analyzing how the Puuc economy depended on sustained economic growth and ultimately suffered its consequences for long‐term agro‐ecological sustainability. We suggest that an important clue to understanding urban collapse in the Puuc is found by looking at transitions in the net energy gain of the agricultural economy over the long‐term. The boom‐and‐crash character of Puuc economic history follows a series of opportunities, challenges, and problem‐solving with varying efficacy for long‐ and short‐term sustainability and resilience. These factors include the highly fertile soils as the main resource; water scarcity as a limiting factor; effective water management as a key solution; and costly social complexity a driving force of agro‐economic growth. The diminishing returns on energy invested were consequences of a dependency on economic growth as the supply of the primary resource decreased. The elite segments of polities were unable to adjust to decreasing returns, which led to economic decline and, eventually, organizational collapse. The boom‐and‐crash character of Puuc settlement suggests a political economy that had locked into dependency on constant growth and failed to adapt to diminishing returns.
6 A Reassessment of Water and Soil Resources in the Flatlands of the Northern Maya Lowlands
Authors: Fedick Scott L.
Published: September 2014

Often characterized as a low, flat, limestone shelf with thin soils and restricted water resources, the northern lowlands are now proving to have supported high population levels and complex social development from the earliest Preclassic times through the Postclassic, though striking differences in developmental trajectories exist. The karstic plain of the north‐central portion of the Yucatán Peninsula is characterized by the presence of dry depressions or rejolladas with wells, cenotes, and caves with water. The spatial distribution of these hydrological features played a key role in the occupation of the region since the Late Preclassic period, while the archaeological data suggest population growth during the eighth and ninth centuries C.E., reaching its peak in the tenth and eleventh centuries. Various agricultural technologies provided adaptations to the resource base, while the general settlement history may be linked to the dynamics of water‐table fluctuations and resulting suitability of the wetlands for subsistence production.
11 Resilience and Vulnerability in the Maya Hinterlands
Authors: Iannone Gyles , Prufer Keith , Chase Diane Z.
Published: September 2014

Given their grand architecture, intricately carved monuments, and colorful histories, the largest Maya centers have long drawn the attention of archaeologists and non‐specialists alike. Early interest in the infamous Maya collapse was, in fact, initially inspired by the discovery of these “lost cities in the jungle.” This research focus was further stimulated by advances in deciphering the Maya hieroglyphic script, and the recognition that monument erection—or in other words, the written histories of most of the southern Lowland centers—came to a rather abrupt end in the 9th century C.E. IHOPE scholars are attempting to elucidate the conditions that lead to the decline of these impressive centers. In doing so, the trajectories of smaller communities, and or those located in hinterlands between the more prominent centers, have emerged as interesting counterpoints that provide unique, and no less significant, examples of resilience and vulnerability. The emerging data suggest that these communities had specific strengths and weaknesses, which in turn provided them with a particular set of challenges, as well as a specific range of coping mechanisms they could marshal when dealing with their ever‐changing environment circumstances (i.e., climate change, resource availability, landscape modifications), and the highly dynamic geopolitical landscape within which they were embedded. This chapter will discuss some of the key insights derived from our examination of hinterland communities, with particular attention being paid to the broader implications of the contrasting trajectories exhibited by these segments of ancient Maya society.