bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reinforcing supply chain security through organizational and cultural tools within the intermodal rail and road industry
Authors: Cigolini Roberto , Pero Margherita , Sianesi Andrea
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the role of organizational and cultural tools to increase supply chain security within the intermodal rail and road industry. Three main research questions are set, regarding: what organizational and cultural tools are used by companies within the intermodal rail and road industry; how these tools impact on security performance; and what environmental factors trigger the use of each tool.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 13 companies within the intermodal rail and road industry have been studied in detail through in-depth case studies.

Findings

Results suggest that organizational and cultural tools impact positively on supply chain security, by reducing collusion and both operative and planning mistakes. In particular, such tools mitigate the effect of lack of cooperation and communication between partners and of inadequate partners.

Practical implications

Results point out that the ability of organizational and cultural tools to increase supply chain security has not been fully exploited yet. Tools to mitigate the negative effects on security of inadequacy of partners are not popular or they are not considered as powerful enough, despite it has been highlighted as the most relevant causal factor of lack of security.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a thorough overview of the effects of cultural and organizational tools on supply chain security and a detailed study of these tools in the area of intermodal rail-and-road transport.
Productivity, quality and business performance: an empirical study
Authors: Prakash Anand , Jha Sanjay Kumar , Prasad Kapil Deo , Singh Abhishek Kumar
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically investigate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance in home-based brassware units in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study involved action research of home-based brassware units applying procedures for three-stage least-squares (3SLS) regression analysis, with data obtained through questionnaire survey based on convenience sampling.

Findings

This study has supported the established belief that quality leads to productivity, and subsequently productivity leads to better business performance for home-based brassware units in India. The consistent and logical result of this study using 3SLS regression analysis has provided empirical understanding of the appropriate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study has limitations of findings, as it studied the home-based brassware units in the Indian context only.

Practical implications

This study implies that marketable home-based brassware products are to be produced by taking into account boundaries of production within the framework of goals and value created by motivation and dependability for monitoring the business performance. Identifying an appropriate linkage among productivity, quality, and business performance may project a holistic evaluation of the policy development related to home-based brassware units.

Originality/value

This is an original study to test empirical linkages among productivity, quality, and business performance using 3SLS regression analysis particularly for home-based brassware units in India.
The role of collaboration and technology diffusion on business performance
Authors: Al-Hakim Latif , Lu Wu
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically test the joint impact of trust, technology diffusion and organisational capacity on collaboration and investigate the effect of the interaction among them on business performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is formulated to achieve the study’s purpose. The research employs quantitative methodology to test the validity of the model. Pilot interviews were used to select applicable attribute for each of the model’s constructs and to revise the survey questionnaire. The survey is addressed to CEOs and senior managers of 500 electrical product manufacturers in Wenzhou province, China. The questionnaire covers 20 attributes of the model’s constructs, which are measured on a seven-point scale. A structured equation modelling software known as AMOS is used to analyse data.

Findings

Results indicate that trust is an antecedent factor for successful collaboration, but not as a factor directly affecting business performance. However, the research shows that collaboration plays a full mediator between trust and business performance. The empirical evidence from this research implied that technology diffusion do not translate properly into collaboration and the organisations do not give adequate attention to the process performance in making collaboration with partners. In addition, the electrical Chinese organisations do not consider that the commitments of their partners exceed the expectations.

Research limitations/implications

This research limits investigation in China only and considers one type of industry, that is, the manufacturers of small products.

Practical implications

The conceptual model can be used as an audit tool for evaluating the effect of collaboration on business performance. Thus, managers could recognise weak attributes and plan for improvement.

Originality/value

This study provides new measurement instrument for evaluating the joint impact of collaboration, technology diffusion, trust and organisational capacity on business performance.
Independent and cumulative effect of diet and exercise on reduction of adiposity measures among obese people
Authors: Kamalasundari Somasundaram , Hemalatha Ganapathysamy , Raghavan Premalatha Mundankandath
Published: April 2017

Purpose

The epidemic of obesity is escalating worldwide. This paper aims to focus on feasible and affordable measures to reduce obesity among sedentary persons aged 30 to 50 years, to provide suitable intervention to overcome excess body weight and to prevent further weight gain. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine such effects in India.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 288 sedentary office going people were motivated to reduce weight and on the basis of their being obese and willingness to participate in the study, 144 of them were selected for the intervention study. They were randomly divided into four groups. Subjects of Group I formed the control, Group II were given a high fiber and low glycemic diet mix, Group III participated in an exercise program and Group IV followed both. Anthropometric measurements were measured initially and at 30 days of interval up to 120 days, and biochemical tests were done before and after the intervention.

Findings

The subjects in Groups II, III and IV had 5 per cent reduction in anthropometric measurements. The biochemical tests revealed that the rate of decrease of mean total cholesterol and low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol were greatest in Group II. In Group IV, there was maximum decrease of mean total cholesterol and high density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio, mean LDL and HDL ratio, mean fasting blood glucose and also a favorable increase of HDL cholesterol. In Group III, there was maximum increase of hemoglobin. All the central obesity measures, except body mass index, are highly and positively correlated with the biochemical parameters.

Research limitations/implications

It was observed that, in some individuals, the weight loss was 8 to 10 kg, and for a few, the weight loss was less in the range of 1 to 2 kg. This indicated that the same kind of diet and exercise brought about weight reduction to different extents due to individual response. Because of the individual differences, there is a need to highlight the response of the intervention by examining the individual variability referring to age and gender rather than pooling the mean data.

Originality/value

It was observed that the inclusion of high fiber and low glycemic diet in the intervention had a profound influence in the reduction of weight. Exercise alone may not be very effective when opted as a single measure for reducing obesity, and it can only act as a complementary program along with diet for any weight reduction program.
Changes in glucose levels and fecal excretion of lipids due to consumption of yacon flour
Authors: Pereira Juciane de Abreu Ribeiro , Barcelos Maria de Fátima Piccolo , Ferreira Eric Batista , Pereira Rafaela Corrêa , de Angelis-Pereira Michel Cardoso
Published: April 2017

Purpose

As studies investigating the effects of fructan sources, such as yacon, on glucose and lipid metabolism showed different results, additional research is required to establish a clear relationship between them. Thus, this paper aims to evaluate possible effects of the consumption of the yacon pulp flour (YPF) on biological and metabolic parameters such as food consumption, weight gain, serum glucose levels and fecal lipid excretion of rats, as well as determine the role of glycemic index (GI) of the diets added of this ingredient on those parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, 24 male albino Wistar rats were divided into four groups, which received the following treatments for 17 days: Group 1 (G1) (Control) – American Institute of Nutrition (AIN)-M; Group 2 (G2) – AIN-M added 5 per cent YPF; Group 3 (G3) – AIN-M added 10 per cent YPF and Group 4 (G4) – AIN-M added 15 per cent YPF. Analysis of fasting and postprandial glycemia was conducted for elaboration of the glycemic curve and calculation of the GI of the diets. Lipids loss was measured by quantification of crude fat in feces after consumption of the diet.

Findings

YPF, regarding the concentration in the diets, did not elevate the fasting glucose among the groups. The postprandial glucose of the animals declined in different postprandial glucose peaks of the groups ingesting YPF in relation to the control one, especially in group treated with 15 per cent YPF, between 30 and 60 min (p<0,05), confirming the influence of the dietary fiber on the absorption of the glucose. The ingestion of YPF increased dragging of lipids to the animal feces, proportional to the amounts of YPF added to the diets. According to the regression analysis, followed by regression testing to 5 per cent, there was a significant difference between the experimental groups, being that the elevation of the percentage of YPF added to the diet caused a proportional increase in the lipid levels in the animal feces.

Originality/value

YPF could be an alimentary source of interest, mainly when the focus is on disease risk prevention such as diabetes, obesity and dyslipidemias.
Information requirements to create public value: sharing and opening data to address urban blight
Authors: De Tuya Manuel , Cook Meghan , Sutherland Megan K. , Luna-Reyes Luis Felipe
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Blighted and vacant properties represent a persistent and costly problem for cities and local governments throughout the USA. The purpose of this paper is to identify data needs and requirements for value creation in the context of urban blight. The main assumption is that sharing and opening data through a robust and effective code enforcement program will facilitate more informed management, mitigation and remediation of blighted and vacant properties. Code enforcement programs must be grounded on organizational and technical infrastructures that enable data sharing and value creation for the city and the communities that share its space.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the information needs and realities of a city’s code enforcement environment are described, based on data gathered through a series of workshops and focus groups with a range of stakeholders, which included city government departments, police, fire, bank representatives, realtors and community groups.

Findings

The analysis reveals key data elements that could potentially help to build a code enforcement program to better manage the cycles and costs of urban blight. Although some of these data elements already exist, and are public, they are not easily accessible to key stakeholders. The paper ends with sets of short-term and long-term recommendations for establishing an information-sharing infrastructure, which would serve as the main conduit for exchanging code enforcement data among a number of city government departments and the public that may play a role in managing urban blight and its consequences.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors are connecting extant literature on sharing and opening data with literature on the creation of public value. They argue that sharing and opening government data constitute effective ways of managing the costs and cycles of urban blight while creating value. As a result of an initial assessment of data and information requirements, the authors also point to specific data and its potential value from stakeholder perspective.
Stable isotopes in tropical tree rings: theory, methods and applications
Authors: van der Sleen Peter , Zuidema Pieter A. , Pons Thijs L.
Published: April 2017

The notion that many tropical tree species form annual growth rings has triggered research on their growth and its environmental drivers over long periods of time. Even more recently, a large number of studies have also analysed the natural abundance of stable isotopes in tropical tree rings. The rapid developments in this young field call for a review. Here, we focus on stable isotopes of carbon (13C), oxygen (18O) and nitrogen (15N).

We start by explaining how environmental and physiological effects define the isotopic composition of wood in tropical trees. Abundance of 13C is mainly driven by water, light and nutrient availability. Here 18O values are chiefly determined by those of rainwater and additionally by rooting depth and factors determining leaf water evaporation. The 15N levels are determined by the 15N signature of nitrogen uptake, which in turn depends in complex ways on various processes in the nitrogen cycle.

We then discuss methodological aspects of isotopes studies in tropical tree rings. An important requirement is that rings are reliably dated. Furthermore, a key methodological concern is that temporal changes in isotopic values can be confounded by tree‐size driven changes, which can be avoided by sampling from a fixed diameter range or accounted for statistically.

Next, 50 studies are reviewed that measured stable isotopes of C, O, and/or N in tree rings of a total of 85 tropical tree species. Temporal variation in both δ13C and δ18O was correlated with precipitation and El Niño Southern Oscillation variability. Seasonality in δ13C and δ18O was successfully used for delimiting visually non‐distinct annual rings. Tropical tree responses to increasing atmospheric [CO2] were effectively quantified, using δ13C as a measure of intrinsic water use efficiency. And finally, anthropogenic changes in the nitrogen cycle in tropical forests have been inferred from δ15N.

We conclude with methodological and ecophysiological recommendations for isotope studies in tropical tree rings. Future perspectives include the analysis of intramolecular isotopic distributions of isotopes in glucose that can advance our understanding of environmental effects on tropical tree physiology. Finally, we recommend that tropical tree ring isotope data are deposited in open access databases.

A lay summary is available for this article.
We're sorry but it's not our fault: Organizational apologies in ambiguous crisis situations
Authors: Bentley Joshua M. , Oostman Kimberly R. , Shah Sayyed Fawad Ali
Published: April 2017

Crisis management theories encourage organizations to use different response strategies depending on how much responsibility for the crisis stakeholders attribute to organizations. However, theory has not fully addressed what organizations ought to say when responsibility for the crisis is ambiguous, as in a data breach crisis. This study uses a content analysis to (i) examine what organizations say in response to data breaches and (ii) compare what organizations say after data breaches with what organizations say when they are clearly responsible. The findings suggest that organizations are more likely to acknowledge responsibility and show empathy when they are clearly to blame, but are more likely to invite contact and advise stakeholders how to protect themselves in data breach situations.
Outsourcing transitions and the employment relationship implications
Authors: Mitchell Ivan , James Phil
Published: April 2017

Drawing on three longitudinal case studies involving the outsourcing of public leisure services, we explore the work transitions of staff as they transfer from one organisation to another using a three‐phase analytical framework. The findings confirm the idea that outsourcing can be a difficult transition to go through, with losses occurring in relation to terms and conditions of employment. However, they also show how such changes can occur alongside the development of seemingly positive employment relationships with the new employer that challenge the view that the employment effects of public service outsourcing are invariably perceived in a negative light by employees. In doing so, the study's findings are seen to point towards the value of exploring outsourcing‐related work transitions longitudinally and through the lens of the adopted analytical framework. They are also seen to have implications for how such transitions are theorised and managed, including how we might understand the nature of the employment relationship and the role of line managers.
The use of an occlusion perfusion catheter to deliver paclitaxel to the arterial wall
Authors: Atigh Marzieh K. , Turner Emily , Christians Uwe , Yazdani Saami K.
Published: April 2017

Aim

Nonstent drug delivery platforms have recently emerged as an alternative treatment of peripheral arterial disease. Perfusion catheters have the potential to directly deliver antiproliferative agents to the medial arterial layer to prevent restenosis. The purpose of this study was to therefore determine the effectiveness of a perfusion catheter to deliver paclitaxel, a proven antiproliferative agent, to combat restenosis.

Methods

A benchtop model was utilized to determine the varying parameters of a novel occlusion perfusion catheter to maximize paclitaxel delivery using pharmacokinetic evaluation and fluorescent microscopy. Parameters tested included concentration of paclitaxel, delivery pressure, duration of delivery, and the use of an excipient. In addition, bilateral rabbit iliac arteries were treated with the perfusion catheter and pharmacokinetic evaluation performed at 1 hour, 1 day and 3 days.

Results

Benchtop testing demonstrated uniform and circumferential penetration of paclitaxel within the treated arteries. The results of the ex vivo test identified two groups with and without an excipient with similar loading conditions (with excipient: 15.4±8.6 ng/mg vs without excipient: 8.9±6.9 ng/mg, P=.77). The in vivo pharmacokinetic analysis of these two groups demonstrated the use of contrast agent increased arterial paclitaxel levels and maintained initial paclitaxel dosing up to 3 days (With excipient: 1 hour: 107±62 ng vs 3 days: 40±23 ng, P=.824; No excipient: 1 hour: 247±120 ng vs 3 days: 2.92±2.9 ng, P=.009).

Conclusions

These results demonstrate the feasibility to deliver paclitaxel directly to the medial layer of an artery via a perfusion catheter.
Syn‐collision Biotite Hornblende Granodiorite from the Zedong Area, Tibet: Zircon U–Pb Isotope Chronology, Petro‐geochemistry, and Geodynamic Significance
Authors: ZHU Feilin , SHI Zeming , XIONG Fuhao , NI Shijun , BAI Mei
Published: April 2017

Cu–Au mineralization is rare in the Jurassic–Early Tertiary batholiths related to the India–Asia collision. Geochemical analysis and U–Pb isotope chronology was carried out on Shuangbujiere biotite hornblende granodiorite from the Zedong area. Zircon grains of the biotite hornblende granodiorite show oscillatory growth zonation and have high Th/U ratios of 1.08–2.39, indicating a magmatic origin for the zircons. Geochrological test yielded a LA‐ICP‐MS U‐Pb age of 51.5±1.0 Ma, suggesting that the emplacement age of the biotite hornblende granodiorite is Early Eocene. The Shuangbujiere biotite hornblende granodiorites have geochemical features characteristic of adakite and are associated with a calc–alkaline metaluminous I‐type granite enriched in Sr, high in Mg# (49.6–54.9) and Sr/Y, and depleted in Y and Yb. These results indicate that this intrusion formation may have been associated with crustal thickening caused by the early collision of the Indian and Eurasian Plates. As the process of crustal thickening continued, the heating of the underplated basaltic magma caused the thickened lower crust amphibolite to dehydrate the melt and form a high‐K calc–alkaline adakitic melt at about 848°C. Meanwhile, magma mixing of the underplated basaltic melt and high‐K calc–alkaline adakitic melt formed a high‐Mg# adakite representative of the sys‐collisional tectonic setting.
Geology, Geochemistry and Zircon U‐Pb Geochronology of Porphyries in the Dabate Mo‐Cu Deposit, Western Tianshan, China: Petrogenesis and Tectonic Implications
Authors: DUAN Shigang , ZHANG Zuoheng , WANG Dachuan , LI Fengming
Published: April 2017

The Dabate Mo‐Cu deposit is a medium‐sized porphyry‐type deposit in the Sailimu Lake region, western Tianshan, China. We present the geology, geochemistry and zircon U‐Pb geochronology of granite porphyries from the Dabate district with the intent to constrain their tectonic setting and petrogenesis. Porphyries in the Dabate district include granite porphyry I (gray white color with large phenocrysts), granite porphyry II (pink color with small phenocrysts) and quartz porphyry. Granite porphyry II is the Cu and Mo ore‐bearing granitoid in the Dabate deposit. LA‐ICPMS zircon U‐Pb analyses indicate that granite porphyry II was emplaced at 284.2±1.8 Ma. Granite porphyry I and II have similar geochemical features and are both highly fractionated granites: (1) They have high SiO2 content (70.93–80.18 wt% and 72.14–72.64 wt%, respectively), total alkali (7.58–8.95 wt% and 9.35–9.68 wt%, respectively), mafic index (0.95–0.98 and 0.93–0.94, respectively) and felsic index (0.79–0.94 and 0.89–0.91, respectively); (2) They are characterized by pronounced negative Eu anomaly, “seagull‐style” chondrite‐normalized REE patterns and “tetrad effect” of REE; (3) They are rich in Rb, K, Th, Ta, Zr, Hf, Y and REE, but depleted in Sr, P, Ti and Nb. The magma of granite porphyries in Dabate can be interpreted to have been generated by partial melting of the upper crust due to mantle‐derived magma underplating in a post‐collisional extensional setting.
Petrogenesis and Tectonics of the Naruo Porphyry Cu(Au) Deposit Related Intrusion in the Duolong Area, Central Tibet
Authors: DING Shuai , CHEN Yuchuan , TANG Juxing , ZHENG Wenbao , LIN Bin , YANG Chao
Published: April 2017

The Duolong area is the most important part of the Western Bangong‐Nujiang Suture Zone porphyry Cu(Au) metallogenic belt, in Tibet, China. Here new detailed data are presented from LA‐ICP‐MS zircon U‐Pb, whole‐rock geochemical, and in‐situ zircon Hf isotope analyses for igneous rocks in the large Naruo deposit (2.51 Mt of Cu and 82 t of Au) which is located ∼2 km NE of the Duolong (Duobuza and Bolong) super‐large gold‐rich porphyry copper deposit. We integrated our results with previous research of other porphyry deposits in the Duolong area and have identified the timing, geodynamic setting, and petrogenesis of the mineralization‐associated magmatic events. Based on the measurements, the Duolong area porphyry Cu(Au) deposit formations are associated with Early Cretaceous intermediate‐felsic magmatism, which is consistent with U‐Pb zircon ages of 120 Ma. All the main intrusive rocks in the ore‐concentrated area have similar lithogeochemical characteristics; they show a relative enrichment in both light rare earth elements (LREEs) and large‐ion lithophile elements (LILEs: Rb, Ba, K, etc.) and relative depletion in both heavy rare earth elements (HREEs) and high field strength elements (HFSEs: Nb, Ta, Zr, Hf, etc.). Moreover, the granite porphyry shows positive εHf(t) values between 1.38–7.37 suggesting that magmas were potentially derived from the partial melting of a depleted mantle wedge that had been metasomatized by subducted slab‐derived fluids or melts. This paper points out that the formation of the porphyry‐epithermal Cu(Au) deposit in the Duolong area was dominated by northward subduction of the Bangongco Tethys Plate beneath the Qiangtang block in the Early Cretaceous (124–114 Ma), when the subducted oceanic crust reached 50–70 km underground and generated different degrees of phase transformation, which lead to a melt produced by dehydration of amphibole minerals, a metasomatized mantle wedge, and induced mantle partial melting that produced the magma. Those deposits occurred in a continental arc tectonic setting, which is similar to the continental margin arc environment of the ocean‐continent subduction setting of the Andes metallogenic belt in South America.
Three‐Dimensional In Situ Stress‐Field Simulations of Shale Gas Formations: A Case Study of the 5th Member of the Xujiahe Formation in the Xinchang Gas Field, West Sichuan Depression
Authors: LÜ Jing , ZHOU Wen , XIE Runcheng , SHAN Yuming , ZHANG Chong , XU Hao
Published: April 2017

This work established a geological model for the 5th member of the Xujiahe Formation (X5 member) in the Xinchang gas field of the West Sichuan Depression based on the lithological, structural and depositional properties, as well as logging and well completion data and drill‐core observations. Rock mechanical parameters were calculated according to rock mechanic experiments and rock mechanic interpretations from logging data. We also calculated the magnitudes and orientations of the in situ stresses based on acoustic emission tests, differential strain tests, fracturing behaviour and logging interpretations as well as anisotropy logging tests, borehole‐breakout measurements and well‐log data. Additionally, the present stress field of the X5 member was simulated using finite element numerical (FEM) simulation methods. The numerical simulation results indicate that the distributions of lithology and fractures are key factors that influence the present stress field. The stress field in the study area is discontinuous as a result of fractures and faults in the central and eastern areas. Stress is concentrated at the end sections and bends of faults, but dissipates with distance away from both sides of the faults. A longitudinal profile clearly demonstrates the zonality and continuity of the stress field and an increase with depth. The differential stress distribution is relatively uniform; however, large deviations occur in fracture zones.
Animal exploitation at ed‐Dur (Umm al‐Qaiwain, United Arab Emirates)
Authors: Van Neer Wim , Gautier Achilles , Haerinck Ernie , Wouters Wim , Kaptijn Eva
Published: April 2017

Faunal remains are described from a series of contexts excavated in the coastal site of ed‐Dur, dated between the second and fourth century AD. The more than 19,000 identified animal bones allowed a diachronic and spatial analysis. Subsistence relied heavily on domestic animals, in particular sheep and goat, and on fishing. Whereas the exploitation of terrestrial resources seems to have been quite constant throughout the period considered, the aquatic fauna shows changes through time. A shift, possibly linked to overexploitation, is seen both in the proportions of the targeted fish species and in their sizes. The deposition of some of the mammals encountered in burials is also dealt with; dog and ovicaprid can probably be added to the list of mammals used in ritual context in the region. Spatial analysis did not reveal particular concentrations or activity areas. In general the finds fit nicely in the archaeozoological record of the wider region.
Recent archaeological research at Saruq al‐Hadid, Dubai, UAE
Authors: Weeks Lloyd , Cable Charlotte , Franke Kristina , Newton Claire , Karacic Steven , Roberts James , Stepanov Ivan , David‐Cuny Hélène , Price David , Bukhash Rashad Mohammed , Radwan Mansour Boraik , Zein Hassan
Published: April 2017

In September 2014, the University of New England (UNE), Australia, began a three‐year programme of archaeological fieldwork and post‐excavation analyses focused on the site of Saruq al‐Hadid. In this paper, we present the initial results of our current field and laboratory research particularly related to site stratigraphy and formation processes, relative and absolute chronology, and the preliminary results of various programmes of post‐excavation analyses including archaeobotanical, zooarchaeological, ceramic and archaeometallurgical studies. These studies provide new data to build into the archaeological understanding of Saruq al‐Hadid that has, to date, focused largely on intensive excavation.
Neolithic nomadism in south‐east Arabia — strontium and oxygen isotope ratios in human tooth enamel from al‐Buhais 18 and Umm al‐Quwain 2 in the Emirates of Sharjah and Umm al‐Quwain (UAE)
Authors: Kutterer Adelina , Uerpmann Hans‐Peter
Published: April 2017

Human skeletal remains from the Neolithic sites BHS18 in the interior of the Sharjah Emirate and the Neolithic shell midden UAQ2 (Umm al‐Quwain) on the coast of the Persian Gulf (United Arab Emirates, UAE) were analysed for their isotope ratios of strontium (87Sr/86Sr) and oxygen (18O/16O). The results are not in agreement with earlier assumptions about a Neolithic nomadism between inland regions and the south‐eastern coast of the Persian Gulf. Existing evidence of nomadic movements of the people from BHS18 most possibly refers to transhumance within the mountains in the hinterland. The strontium isotope measurements on human skeletons from UAQ2 on the contrary indicate uninterrupted residence of this population on the coast. Nevertheless, evidence was found of individual mobility between inland regions and the coast.
Examination and Analysis of Etruscan Wall Paintings at Caere, Italy
Authors: Klempan B. , Helwig K. , Colivicchi F.
Published: April 2017

In 1983, the excavation of the ancient city of Caere near Rome, which became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, led to the unearthing of an underground sanctuary dating from the early third century bc. Known as the ‘Hypogaeum of Clepsina’, it consists of an underground room decorated with frescoes, drawings and inscriptions. The initiation of a new excavation campaign at Caere in 2012 provided the opportunity to study this rare example of Etruscan wall paintings of a non‐sepulchral nature from the Hellenistic era. The paintings were documented, photographed and samples were removed for analysis using a combination of scientific techniques. The observation that at least some of the painting was done on wet plaster supports the conclusion that the frescos are contemporaneous to the plastering of the walls in the hypogaeum in approximately 273 bc. The plaster is lime‐based and aggregate materials include potassium feldspar, clinopyroxene, quartz, hematite and magnetite. No organic binding medium was identified in the paint, suggesting a lime water binder. Paint materials identified are Egyptian blue, red iron oxide (hematite), yellow iron oxide (goethite), charcoal black, quartz, silicates and calcite. All the paint samples show a mineral accretion layer at the upper surface, caused by recrystallization of salts.
The Contribution of Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) to Understanding Pre‐Columbian Goldwork Technology
Authors: Vindel E. , García J. , Gumiel C. , López‐Acevedo V. , Hernando M.
Published: April 2017

This paper highlights the contribution of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) when combined with scanning electron microscopy and energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis (SEM/XEDS) to characterize objects in archaeology. The application of TEM in archaeology is not yet a common tool, but it may provide data that are significant to understanding pre‐Columbian gold metallurgy, specifically the gilding and silvering methods. Two gilded rods were studied using a combination of TEM and SEM/XEDS techniques. The objects were found at the Atacames archaeological site, in the Esmeraldas region, Ecuador, which was occupied betweenad750 and 1526 by the Atacames culture. The microchemical and structural results of the inner and the external gilded part of the artefacts support the hypothesis of a gold diffusion to the surface enhanced by chemical treatment with chloride‐rich solutions, heating and successive annealing processes. The present study reveals that microstructural investigation by TEM provides useful information with which to investigate the techniques used to modify the chemical surface composition of pre‐Columbian artefacts.
How Does Path Dependence Facilitate Reform? The Case of the Mega‐Ministry Reform in Shunde District, Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Liang Yuqing , Ma Weihong
Published: April 2017

The traditional view of path dependence is typically focused on the restriction imposed by the past path on future change. Recently, scholars have noted that past paths can also be productive, yielding creativity. These new developments in path dependence illuminate the study of reform. We argue that reforms can form a type of path, with past reforms facilitating future reforms through path dependence. The 1992 administrative reform and the mega‐ministry administrative reform implemented in 2009 in Shunde District, Guangdong Province, China, exhibit this type of change. The 1992 reform significantly influenced the 2009 reform process. The changes that unfolded in Shunde were focused on utilizing this established path to propel further changes. Previous reforms and their outcomes, which constitute a major component of established paths, provide momentum to change by embedding such change as an element of established behavioral patterns and customs; and provide advantageous reform resources for future reforms.
Transurethral removal of a cystic urolith in a mare using a laparoscopic specimen pouch
Authors: Williamson AJ , McKinnon AO
Published: April 2017

Case report

Cystic urolithiasis is the most common form of urolithiasis reported in horses. In contrast to the gelding or stallion, clinical disease is less common in the mare and manual removal techniques are possible because of their shorter, wider urethral anatomy. However, these manual removal techniques can be traumatic and are limited by the size of the urolith. This report describes the use of a commercial laparoscopic specimen pouch to remove a cystic urolith in a mare.

Conclusion

This approach may allow the extraction of larger uroliths per urethra in the mare, while affording some protection to the mucosa of the bladder neck and urethra.
Benefits of rituximab as a second‐line treatment for autoimmune haemolytic anaemia in children: a prospective French cohort study
Authors: Ducassou Stéphane , Leverger Guy , Fernandes Helder , Chambost Hervé , Bertrand Yves , Armari‐Alla Corinne , Nelken Brigitte , Monpoux Fabrice , Guitton Corinne , Leblanc Thierry , Fisher Alain , Lejars Odile , Jeziorski Eric , Fouissac Fanny , Lutz Patrick , Pasquet Marlène , Pellier Isabelle , Piguet Christophe , Vic Philippe , Bayart Sophie , Marie‐Cardine Aude , Michel Marc , Perel Yves , Aladjidi Nathalie
Published: April 2017

Childhood autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) requires second‐line immunosuppressive therapy in 30–50% of cases. It appears that rituximab is indicated in such circumstances. This prospective national study reports the practice, efficacy and tolerance of rituximab in children with isolated AIHA and AIHA in the setting of Evans syndrome (ES). Sixty‐one children were given rituximab between 2000 and 2014. The median interval from diagnosis to rituximab was 9·9 [interquartile range (IQR) 1·6–28·5] months. Forty‐six patients responded (75%) and the 6‐year relapse‐free survival (RFS) was 48%. Twenty patients relapsed at a median interval of 10·8 (IQR 3·9–18·7) months, rituximab allowed steroid withdrawal in 44/61 (72%) of children. In isolated AIHA, complete response and 6‐year RFS were significantly higher than in ES (P < 0·05). Ten out of 61 patients were infants, seven of who responded with a 6‐year RFS of 71%. Among patients without immunoglobulin substitution before rituximab, 4 are still receiving substitutions. Five patients died, including one potentially attributable to rituximab. This large observational series of childhood AIHA established the rituximab benefit‐risk ratio, allowing steroid withdrawal, with 37% of long‐term responders, mainly in isolated AIHA. All subgroups of patients drew benefit. Our long‐term results indicate the baseline to be challenged by new treatment approaches.
Agreement between finger plethysmography‐ and brachial oscillometry‐derived blood pressure measurements
Authors: Allan Philip D. , O'Donnell Terrence , Tzeng Yu‐Chieh
Published: April 2017

Purpose

Blood pressure (BP) is commonly assessed by brachial oscillometry in clinical practice, whereas in physiological studies, finger plethysmography is often employed. This study assessed the limits of agreement between BP metrics obtained from each device.

Methods

In 96 participants, we simultaneously recorded BP by brachial oscillometry (BP+; Uscom, Sydney, NSW, Australia) and finger plethysmography (Finometer MIDI, MLE1054‐V; Finapres Medical Systems B.V., Amsterdam, the Netherlands). Agreement between the two devices was assessed by correlation and Bland–Altman analysis. We assessed average BP differences between the two devices using the criteria of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instruments (AAMI), which require systolic and diastolic BP differences to be within ≤5 ± 8 (mean ± SD).

Results

Bland–Altman analysis showed wide limits of agreement (±~17 mmHg or greater) between finger‐derived brachial and oscillometric BP. Both systolic and mean BP exhibited positive proportional biases (both P<0·05). Systolic BP differed significantly between devices (7·4 ± 17·7 mmHg, P<0·001), which did not meet the AAMI criteria. No mean bias was observed for diastolic BP (−1·5 ± 8·6 mmHg, P = 0·097), and the SD of ±8·6 mmHg is potentially acceptable given the finger signal may be expected to capture biological variability in BP. Mean BP showed poor concordance (3·7 ± 10·5 mmHg, P<0·001).

Conclusions

These findings indicate that systolic and mean BP measurements made by brachial oscillometry do not agree with those from finger plethysmography. In contrast, diastolic BP values show acceptable agreement.
Hydration status influences the measurement of arterial stiffness
Authors: Caldwell Aaron R. , Tucker Matthew A. , Burchfield Jenna , Moyen Nicole E. , Satterfield Alf Z. , Six Ashley , McDermott Brendon P. , Mulvenon Sean W. , Ganio Matthew S.
Published: April 2017

Consensus guidelines have attempted to standardize the measurement and interpretation of pulse wave velocity (PWV); however, guidelines have not addressed whether hydration status affects PWV. Moreover, multiple studies have utilized heat stress to reduce arterial stiffness which may lead to dehydration. This study utilized two experiments to investigate the effects of dehydration on PWV at rest and during passive heat stress. In experiment 1, subjects (n = 19) completed two trials, one in which they arrived euhydrated and one dehydrated (1·2[1·0]% body mass loss). In experiment 2, subjects (n = 11) began two trials euhydrated and in one trial did not receive water during heat stress, thus becoming dehydrated (1·6[0·6]% body mass loss); the other trial subjects remained euhydrated. Using Doppler ultrasound, carotid‐to‐femoral (central) and carotid‐to‐radial (peripheral) PWVs were measured. PWV was obtained at a normothermic baseline, and at a 0·5°C and 1°C elevation in rectal temperature (via passive heating). In experiment 1, baseline central PWV was significantly higher when euhydrated compared to dehydrated (628[95] versus 572[91] cm s−1, respectively; P<0·05), but peripheral PWV was unaffected (861[117] versus 825[149] cm s−1; P>0·05). However, starting euhydrated and becoming dehydrated during heating in experiment 2 did not affect PWV measures (P>0·05), and independent of hydration status peripheral PWV was reduced when rectal temperature was elevated 0·5°C (−74[45] cm s−1; P<0·05) and 1·0°C (−70[48] cm s−1; P<0·05). Overall, these data suggest that hydration status affects measurements of central PWV in normothermic, resting conditions. Therefore, future guidelines should suggest that investigators ensure adequate hydration status prior to measures of PWV.
Finger pressure adjustments to various object configurations during precision grip in humans and monkeys
Authors: Viaro Riccardo , Tia Banty , Coudé Gino , Canto Rosario , Oliynyk Andriy , Salmas Paola , Masia Lorenzo , Sandini Giulio , Fadiga Luciano
Published: April 2017

In this study, we recorded the pressure exerted onto an object by the index finger and the thumb of the preferred hand of 18 human subjects and either hand of two macaque monkeys during a precision grasping task. The to‐be‐grasped object was a custom‐made device composed by two plates which could be variably oriented by a motorized system while keeping constant the size and thus grip dimension. The to‐be‐grasped plates were covered by an array of capacitive sensors to measure specific features of finger adaptation, namely pressure intensity and centroid location and displacement. Kinematic measurements demonstrated that for human subjects and for monkeys, different plate configurations did not affect wrist velocity and grip aperture during the reaching phase. Consistently, at the instant of fingers‐plates contact, pressure centroids were clustered around the same point for all handle configurations. However, small pressure centroid displacements were specifically adopted for each configuration, indicating that both humans and monkeys can display finger adaptation during precision grip. Moreover, humans applied stronger thumb pressure intensity, performed less centroid displacement and required reduced adjustment time, as compared to monkeys. These pressure patterns remain similar when different load forces were required to pull the handle, as ascertained by additional measurements in humans. The present findings indicate that, although humans and monkeys share common features in motor control of grasping, they differ in the adjustment of fingertip pressure, probably because of skill and/or morphology divergences. Such a precision grip device may form the groundwork for future studies on prehension mechanisms.
Analysis of organic components in resin‐modified pulp capping materials: critical considerations
Authors: Nilsen Bo W. , Jensen Einar , Örtengren Ulf , Michelsen Vibeke B.
Published: April 2017

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the organic composition and eluates of three resin‐based pulp‐capping materials in relation to their indications and safety data sheets. Uncured samples of Theracal LC, Ultra‐Blend Plus, and Calcimol LC were investigated using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC‐MS) and ultra‐performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (UPLC‐MS). Identification/quantification of 7‐d leachables of cured samples was performed using GC‐MS for 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), 2‐(dimethylamino)ethyl methacrylate (DMAEMA), camphorquinone (CQ), ethylene glycol dimethacrylate (EGDMA), ethyl‐4‐(dimethylamino)benzoate (DMABEE), and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA). A similar organic composition was found for Ultra‐Blend and Calcimol; however, only Ultra‐Blend is indicated for direct pulp‐capping. In contrast to the other materials analysed, Theracal contained substances of high molecular weight. The safety data sheets of all materials were incomplete. We detected HEMA, CQ, and TEGDMA in eluates from Ultra‐Blend and Calcimol, and it was considered that HEMA might have originated from decomposition of diurethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) in the GC‐injector. For Theracal, additives associated with light curing (DMABEE and CQ) were detected in higher amounts (4.11 and 19.95 μg mm−2) than in the other materials. Pores were quantified in all samples by micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) analysis, which could influence leaching. The organic substances in the investigated materials might affect their clinical suitability as capping agents, especially for direct capping procedures.
Reduced community viral load does not coincide with a reduction in the rate of new HIV diagnoses and recent infections: data from a region of southern Italy
Authors: Monno L , Saracino A , Scudeller L , Santoro C , Brindicci G , Punzi G , Lagioia A , Lo Caputo S , Angarano G
Published: April 2017

Objectives

We assessed whether changes in community viral load (CVL) over time were associated with the rate of new HIV diagnoses (NDs).

Methods

HIV‐1‐positive individuals referred to our institute and permanently residing in our province were considered for inclusion in the study. A total of 861 HIV‐infected adults with at least one HIV RNA measurement (12 530 measurements in total) between 2008 and 2014 were included. Viraemia copy‐years were calculated from all HIV RNA values for each patient using the trapezoidal rule; multiple CVL indicators were considered. Total NDs and recent infections (< 1 year) were analysed separately. The association between NDs and CVL was tested by means of mixed Poisson models, with CVL as a fixed effect and year as a random effect.

Results

The incidence of NDs was 2.28 per 100 000 residents in 2008 and 2.52 per 100 000 residents in 2014. Total numbers of NDs and recent infections did not vary significantly over time (P for trend 0.879 and 0.39, respectively). Mean HIV RNA decreased from 31 095.8 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL in 2008 to 21 231.5 copies/mL in 2014 (P < 0.001); a downward trend was always observed regardless of the CVL indicator considered. Depending on the indicator, there were some differences in CVL by patient characteristics. The most substantial contributors to CVL appeared to be male individuals, men who have sex with men (MSM), non‐Italians, and untreated subjects (all P < 0.05). The relative risk of ND increased among Italians and MSM with an increasing proportion of subjects having an undetectable HIV RNA, and decreased in the same population with increasing levels of CVL.

Conclusions

In our setting, CVL represented a good marker of access to care and treatment; however, reduced CVL did not coincide with a reduction in the rate of NDs.