bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complications following Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy and Immediate Acellular Dermal Matrix Implant-based Breast Reconstruction—A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Heidemann Lene Nyhøj , Gunnarsson Gudjon L. , Salzberg C. Andrew , Sørensen Jens Ahm , Thomsen Jørn Bo
Published: January 2018

Background:

Acellular dermal matrix was introduced in breast reconstruction in 2001 and is gradually becoming a standard component for immediate breast reconstruction and nipple-sparing mastectomy. The reconstructive technique allows for improved aesthetic outcomes. However, there seems to be uncertainty regarding complication rates. The aim of this review was to systematically evaluate complication rates related to this method.

Methods:

This systematic review was conducted according to the recommendations outlined in the Cochrane Handbook for reviews and reported in line with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement. Relevant databases were searched for in the literature concerning the use of acellular dermal matrix in implant-based nipple-sparing mastectomy and immediate breast reconstruction. All studies underwent detailed quality assessment. Summarized outcome rates were computed using meta-analysis.

Results:

Nine of 1,039 studies were eligible for inclusion yielding 778 procedures. The quality was acceptable for all included studies. The meta-analysis found the rate of skin necrosis to be 11%, nipple necrosis 5%, infection in 12%, hematoma in 1%, treated seroma in 5%, explantation 4%, and unplanned return to the operating room in 9%.

Conclusion:

The use of acellular dermal matrix in nipple-sparing mastectomy and implant-based breast reconstruction can be done with acceptable complication rates in selected patients. We recommend future studies to include specific definitions when reporting complication rates. Furthermore, future studies should elaborate on demographic characteristics of the included study samples and include predictor analysis to enhance knowledge of high risk patients.
Reexploring the Anatomy of the Distal Humerus for its Role in Providing Vascularized Bone
Authors: Carr Logan W. , Brooke Sebastian M. , Johnson T. Shane , Michelotti Brett F.
Published: January 2018

Background:

The lateral arm flap is used for composite defects in need of vascularized soft tissue, skin, and bone. From its original description, the distal humeral metaphysis can be included with the flap, supplied by the periosteal extensions of the posterior branch of the radial collateral artery. We sought to reexplore the anatomy of the lateral arm to determine its utility as a donor site for vascularized bone.

Methods:

Twelve fresh, silicone-injected cadaver dissections were performed. Arteriovenous anatomy, pedicle length and diameter, and anatomic variability as well as photo documentation was recorded.

Results:

The distal extent of the deltoid, lateral intermuscular septum and lateral humeral epicondyle were identified before the dissection. A septocutaneous perforator was consistently located 10 cm proximal to the lateral humeral epicondyle, which could be used for a skin paddle to monitor. Harvest of a 1.5 cm × 2 cm corticocancellous bone graft was performed. Average pedicle length was 9.1 ± 1.1 cm, and average pedicle diameter was 1.74 ± 0.52 mm. The inferior lateral cutaneous nerve of the arm and the posterior cutaneous nerve of the forearm were consistently identified and preserved.

Conclusion:

The predictable anatomy of the lateral distal humerus make it an ideal donor site for small segments of vascularized bone.
Molecular Detection of Human Astrovirus in Children With Gastroenteritis, Northern Italy
Authors: Bergallo Massimiliano , Galliano Ilaria , Daprà Valentina , Rassu Marco , Montanari Paola , Tovo Pier-Angelo
Published: January 2018

Background:

Human astroviruses have increasingly been identified and are important agents of diarrheal disease, especially in infants and young children. This article presents the real-time polymerase chain reaction TaqMan assay for the detection and quantification of human astrovirus for clinical fecal samples collected from hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis in Piedmont (northern Italy) from December 2014 to November 2015.

Methods:

A total of 159 fecal specimens from hospitalized children with acute gastroenteritis, previously screened for rotavirus, adenovirus, norovirus, human parechovirus, salivirus and sapovirus, were tested for human astrovirus.

Results:

The most commonly detected virus was norovirus GII (33.8%), followed by rotavirus (21.3%), sapovirus (10.9%), human parechovirus (8%), norovirus GI (6.7%), adenovirus (1%) and salivirus (0.52%). A total of 30 of 159 (18.87%) episodes of acute gastroenteritis were associated with human astrovirus genomic detection.

Conclusions:

Our data showed that the detection rate of astrovirus in diarrheal children (18.87%) was higher than observed in other countries, where they were reported in diarrheal children in 10.3%–0.8% of patients and a mean incidence worldwide of 11%. Our data showed that the detection rate of astrovirus in pediatric gastroenteritis was greater than previously reported in Italy.
Predictors of Success Following Müller’s Muscle-Conjunctival Resection
Authors: Dan Joshua , Sinha Kunal R. , Rootman Daniel B.
Published: January 2018

Purpose:

This study aims to describe Müller’s muscle-conjunctival resection surgery in terms of outcomes and potential factors that may predict final positions.

Methods:

This cross-sectional cohort study included patients undergoing Müller’s muscle-conjunctival resection surgery for involutional ptosis over a 15-year period. Success was defined in 2 ways: 1) final marginal reflex distance 1 (MRD1) ≥2.5 mm (MRD1 success) and 2) final difference in MRD1 ≤1 mm between eyelids (symmetry success). Percentages of patients achieving both outcomes were calculated. Predictors of outcome were assessed using bivariate analysis and multivariate models.

Results:

The final sample included 315 eyes in 192 patients. The mean age (standard deviation) was 67.9 (11.9) years, and 60.0% were female. MRD1 ≥2.5 mm was achieved in 65.7% of the sample. Symmetry within 1 mm was achieved in 82.9% of the sample. Significant (p < 0.05) predictors of MRD1 success were female sex, concurrent lower eyelid blepharoplasty, and higher preoperative MRD1 in bivariate analysis; preoperative MRD1 and female sex in the multivariate model; and preoperative MRD1 in the a priori model. Significant (p < 0.05) predictors of symmetry success were female sex, previous lower eyelid blepharoplasty, concurrent lateral canthoplasty, preoperative symmetry, and older age in bivariate analysis; only female sex in the multivariate model.

Discussion:

Müller’s muscle-conjunctival resection is effective for elevating the eyelid in ptosis and may be more effective for achieving symmetry than absolute elevation over 2.5 mm. The results remain difficult to predict based clinical, surgical, or demographic factors.
Themes in Literature Related to Incidence, Risk, and Prevention of Cancer in Solid-Organ Transplantation Recipients on Immunosuppressive Therapy
Authors: Rashti Stefanie L.
Published: January 2018

Background

Solid-organ transplants provide a second chance to thousands of critically ill patients with end-organ failure each year. Immunosuppressants are administered to patients to prevent graft rejection of a transplanted organ, such as a heart, kidney, or liver, while placing the recipient at greater risk for infection and cancer.

Objective

The literature provides evidence of various cancers that have been found to develop in patients’ posttransplantation. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to investigate the incidence, risk, and prevention of cancer in solid-organ transplantation recipients on immunosuppressive therapy.

Methods

Google Scholar, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Ovid databases were searched to identify research articles in peer-reviewed journals from 2011 to 2016. Variables under examination included cancer risk, cancer type, incidence, demographic characteristics, prevention, screening modalities, and education tools.

Results

Six articles met the inclusion criteria. Results indicate that malignancy is a prominent postoperative finding in at least 4% to 5% of solid-organ transplant recipients, with evidence of various cancer types. Risk factors include male sex, increased age, number of years posttransplant, fair skin, white race, and UV exposure. Screening intervals and educational tools have been found to increase awareness and target those at greater risk.

Conclusion

Skin cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma were the most commonly diagnosed cancers in transplant recipients.

Implications for Practice

Practitioners may find utility in screening tools, self-examination education for patients, and follow-up protocols to prevent further complications in this patient population. Early detection of cancer and those at risk may help decrease morbidity and mortality rates in organ recipients.
Cheek Volumization and the Nasolabial Fold
Authors: Mowlds Donalds S. , Lambros Val
Published: January 2018

Background:

The impression that cheek filling results in longitudinal shortening (“lift”) of the skin and elevation of the nasolabial crease or nasolabial fold has become common within the facial injection community but remains unsubstantiated.

Methods:

In this study, 77 patients were evaluated before and after injection of the cheeks with a hyaluronic acid filler using a three-dimensional camera system.

Results:

A constant pattern of skin expansion away from the center of the injection and perpendicular to the surface of the skin was observed. A subgroup of 37 patients without differences in their preinjection and postinjection facial expression were analyzed by direct comparison and failed to demonstrate lateral traction (or “pull”) on the intervening skin from the cheek injection site to the nasolabial crease. Furthermore, there was no photographic difference in the nasolabial fold or nasolabial crease. The only patients who demonstrated photographic improvement of the medial face were those who had filler placed directly in the transition between the lateral nasolabial fold and cheek (nasojugal crease).

Conclusions:

Filling the cheek with 3 cc of volume does not create traction forces or move the skin between the site of injection and the nasolabial crease. It is likely that expanding the nasojugal crease is the direct visual cue that leads to perceived improvement in the nasolabial fold.
Assessment of prehospital hemorrhage and airway care using a simulation model
Authors: Skube Mariya E. , Witthuhn Seth , Mulier Kristine , Boucher Bonnie , Lusczek Elizabeth , Beilman Greg J.
Published: January 2018

BACKGROUND

The quality of prehospital care impacts patient outcomes. Military efforts have focused on training revision and the creation of high-fidelity simulation models to address potentially survivable injuries. We sought to investigate the applicability of models emphasizing hemorrhage control and airway management to a civilian population.

METHODS

Prehospital health care providers (PHPs) undergoing their annual training were enrolled. A trauma scenario was simulated with two modules: hemorrhage control and airway management. Experienced raters used a validated tool to assess performance. Pearson correlation, logistic regression, and χ2 tests were used for analysis.

RESULTS

Ninety-five PHPs participated with a mean experience of 15.9 ± 8.3 years, and 7.4% reported past military training. The PHPs' overall execution rate of the six hemorrhage control measures varied from 38.9% to 88.4%. The median blood loss was 1,700 mL (interquartile range, 1,043–2,000), and the mean global rater score was 25.0 ± 7.4 (scale, 5–40). There was a significant relationship between PHP profession and past military experience to their consideration of blood transfusion and tranexamic acid. An inverse relationship between blood loss and global rater score was found (r = −0.59, n = 88, p = 1.93 × 10−9). After simulated direct laryngoscope failure in the airway module, 58% of PHPs selected video laryngoscopy over placement of a supraglottic airway. Eighty-six percent of participants achieved bilateral chest rise in the manikin regardless of management method. Participants reported improved comfort with skills after simulation.

CONCLUSION

Our data reveal marginal performance in hemorrhage control regardless of the PHP’s prior experience. The majority of PHPs were able to secure an advanced airway if direct laryngoscope was unavailable with a predisposition for video laryngoscopy over supraglottic airway. Our findings support the need for continued training for PHPs highlighting hemorrhage control maneuvers and increased familiarity with airway management options. Improved participant confidence posttraining gives credence to simulation training.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic/epidemiological study, level III.
The 2017 plague outbreak in Madagascar: data descriptions and epidemic modelling
Authors: Nguyen Van Kinh , Parra-Rojas Cesar , Hernandez-Vargas Esteban A.
Published: January 2018

From August to November 2017, Madagascar endured an outbreak of plague. A total of 2417 cases of plague were confirmed, causing a death toll of 209. Public health intervention efforts were introduced and successfully stopped the epidemic at the end of November. The plague, however, is endemic in the region and occurs annually, posing the risk of future outbreaks. To understand on the plague transmission, we collected real-time data from official reports, described the outbreak’s characteristics, and estimated transmission parameters using statistical and mathematical models. The pneumonic plague epidemic curve exhibited multiple peaks, coinciding with sporadic introductions of new bubonic cases. Optimal climate conditions for rat flea to flourish were observed during the epidemic. Estimate of the plague basic reproduction number during the large wave of the epidemic was high, ranging from 5–7 depending on model assumptions. The incubation and infection period for bubonic and pneumonic plague were 4.3 and 3.4 days and 3.8 and 2.9, respectively. Parameter estimation suggested that even with a small fraction of the population exposed to infected rat fleas (1/10000) and a small probability of transition from a bubonic case to a secondary pneumonic case (3%), the high human-to-human transmission rate can still generate a large outbreak. Controlling rodent and fleas can prevent new index cases, but managing human-to-human transmission is key to prevent large-scale outbreaks.
ZFP36 RNA-binding proteins restrain T-cell activation and anti-viral immunity
Authors: Moore Michael J. , Blachere Nathalie E. , Fak John J. , Park Christopher Y. , Sawicka Kirsty , Parveen Salina , Zucker-Scharff Ilana , Moltedo Bruno , Rudensky Alexander Y. , Darnell Robert B.
Published: January 2018

Dynamic post-transcriptional control of RNA expression by RNA-binding proteins (RBPs) is critical during immune response. ZFP36 RBPs are prominent inflammatory regulators linked to autoimmunity and cancer, but functions in adaptive immunity are less clear. We used HITS-CLIP to define ZFP36 targets in T-cells, which revealed unanticipated actions in regulating T-cell activation, proliferation, and effector functions. Transcriptome and ribosome profiling showed that ZFP36 represses mRNA target abundance and translation, notably through a novel class of AU-rich sites in coding sequence. Functional studies revealed that ZFP36 regulates early T-cell activation kinetics in a cell autonomous manner, by attenuating activation marker expression, limiting T-cell expansion, and promoting apoptosis. Strikingly, loss of ZFP36 in vivo accelerated T-cell responses to acute viral infection, and enhanced anti-viral immunity. These findings uncover a critical role for ZFP36 RBPs in restraining T-cell expansion and effector functions, and suggest ZFP36 inhibition as a novel strategy to enhance immune-based therapies.
Deconvolution of instrument and Kα2 contributions from X-ray powder diffraction patterns using nonlinear least squares with penalties
Authors: Coelho Alan A.
Published: January 2018

A new deconvolution method, tolerant of noise and independent of knowing the number of Bragg peaks present, has been developed to deconvolute instrument and emission profile distortions from laboratory X-ray powder diffraction patterns. Removing these distortions produces higher-resolution patterns from which the existence of peaks and their shapes can be better determined. Deconvolution typically comprises the use of the convolution theorem to generate a single aberration from instrument and emission profile aberrations and then the Stokes method to deconvolute the resulting aberration from the measured data. These Fourier techniques become difficult when the instrument function changes with diffraction angle and when the signal-to-noise ratio is low. Instead of Fourier techniques, the present approach uses nonlinear least squares incorporating penalty functions, as implemented in the computer program TOPAS-Academic. Specifically, diffraction peaks are laid down at each data point with peak shapes corresponding to either expected peak shapes or peak shapes narrower than expected; a background function is included. Peak intensities and background parameters are then adjusted to obtain the best fit to the diffraction pattern. Rietveld refinement of the deconvoluted pattern results in background parameters that are near identical to those obtained from Rietveld refinement of the original pattern. Critical to the success of the deconvolution procedure are two penalty functions, one a function of the background parameters and the other a function of the peak intensities. Also of importance is the use of a conjugate gradient solution method for solving the matrix equation A
x = b.
Reconstructing three-dimensional protein crystal intensities from sparse unoriented two-axis X-ray diffraction patterns. Corrigendum
Authors: Lan Ti-Yen , Wierman Jennifer L. , Tate Mark W. , Philipp Hugh T. , Elser Veit , Gruner Sol M.
Published: January 2018

A figure in the article by Lan, Wierman, Tate, Philipp, Elser & Gruner [J. Appl. Cryst. (2017), 50, 985–993] is corrected.
TOPAS and TOPAS-Academic: an optimization program integrating computer algebra and crystallographic objects written in C++
Authors: Coelho Alan A.
Published: January 2018

TOPAS and its academic variant TOPAS-Academic are nonlinear least-squares optimization programs written in the C++ programming language. This paper describes their functionality and architecture. The latter is of benefit to developers seeking to reduce development time. TOPAS allows linear and nonlinear constraints through the use of computer algebra, with parameter dependencies, required for parameter derivatives, automatically determined. In addition, the objective function can include restraints and penalties, which again are defined using computer algebra. Of importance is a conjugate gradient solution routine with bounding constraints which guide refinements to convergence. Much of the functionality of TOPAS is achieved through the use of generic functionality; for example, flexible peak-shape generation allows neutron time-of-flight (TOF) peak shapes to be described using generic functions. The kernel of TOPAS can be run from the command line for batch mode operation or from a closely integrated graphical user interface. The functionality of TOPAS includes peak fitting, Pawley and Le Bail refinement, Rietveld refinement, single-crystal refinement, pair distribution function refinement, magnetic structures, constant wavelength neutron refinement, TOF refinement, stacking-fault analysis, Laue refinement, indexing, charge flipping, and structure solution through simulated annealing.
Does corporate governance structures promote shareholders or stakeholders value maximization? Evidence from African banks
Authors: Kusi Baah Aye , Gyeke-Dako Agyapomaa , Agbloyor Elikplimi Komla , Darku Alexander Bilson
Published: January 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between corporate governance structures and stakeholder and shareholder value maximization perspectives in 267 African banks from 2006 to 2011.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used the Prais–Winsten ordinary least squares and random effect regression models to explore this relationship to ensure consistency and efficiency in results. The data for this study were collected from Bankscope.

Findings

The results of this study show that corporate governance structures such as CEO duality, nonexecutive members and extreme large board size lead to a reduction in both shareholder and stakeholder value maximization. However, audit independence and board size also promote both shareholder and stakeholder value maximization. Although gender diversity promotes profit maximization, it was not significant in any of the models estimated. The results further suggest that the same corporate governance structures promote and detract shareholder and stakeholder value maximization in Africa although the effect of corporate governance structures was weightier on shareholder value maximization confirming the agency theory.

Practical implications

From these findings, bank management must pursue the institution of good corporate governance structures and avoid weak corporate governance structures to promote shareholder and stakeholder value maximization. Also equity holders may have to pay particular attention to corporate governance structures because they benefit the most from the institution of good corporate governance structures.

Originality/value

This study explores and compares how corporate governance structures promote shareholder and stakeholder value maximization separately in African banks. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first of such studies.
Exploring trust transfer between internet enterprises and their affiliated internet-only banks
Authors: Zhang Yun , Chen Xiaogang , Liu Xinhui , Zhu Nan
Published: January 2018

Purpose

With the development of information technology, there is a growing trend for internet enterprises in China to launch internet-only banks. This paper aims to explore how the brand trust in an internet enterprise is transferred to the initial trust in its affiliated internet-only bank and how such transfer affects adoption behavior of potential internet-only banking users.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were obtained from online questionnaires via a well-known Chinese survey website and a popular Chinese social platform, which yielded 486 usable responses for the analysis. Partial least squares was used for testing hypotheses.

Findings

The results show that brand trust in the internet enterprise increases initial trust in its affiliated internet-only bank. This, in turn, enhances the adoption of internet-only banking. More importantly, these results show that brand trust in the internet enterprise transfers to initial trust in internet-only banking through performance expectancy and perceived risk. Further, the need for interaction moderates the relationship between brand trust and performance expectancy as well as the relationship between brand trust and perceived risk.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the mechanism by which trust is transferred between two affiliated business entities. The results of the study suggest several useful managerial implications for managing the internet-only banks.
Mechanism analysis of microvia filling based on multiphysics coupling
Authors: Ji Linxian , Su Shidong , Nie Hexian , Wang Shouxu , He Wei , Ai Kehua , Li Qinghua
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Copper electrodeposition acts as a crucial step in the manufacture of high-density interconnect board. The stability of plating solution and the uniformity of copper electrodeposit are the hotspot and difficulty for the research of electrodeposition. Because a large number of factors are included in electrodeposition, experimentally determining all parameters and electrodeposition conditions becomes unmanageable. Therefore, a multiphysics coupling technology was introduced to investigate microvia filling process, and the mechanism of copper electrodeposition was analyzed. The results provide a strong theoretical basis and technical guidance for the actual electroplating experiments. The purpose of this paper is to provide an excellent tool for quickly and cheaply studying the process behavior of copper electrodeposition without actually needing to execute time-consuming and costly experiments.

Design/methodology/approach

The interactions among additives used in acidic copper plating solution for microvia filling and the effect on the copper deposition potential were characterized through galvanostatic measurement (GM). The adsorption behavior and surface coverage of additives with various concentrations under different rotating speeds of working electrode were investigated using cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. Further, a microvia filling model was constructed using multiphysics coupling technology based on the finite element method.

Findings

GM tests showed that accelerator, inhibitor and leveler affected the potential of copper electrodeposition, and bis(3-sulfopropyl) disulfide (SPS), ethylene oxide-propylene oxide (EO/PO) co-polymer, and self-made leveler were the effective additives in acidic copper plating solution. CV tests showed that EO/PO–Cu+-Cl−complex was adsorbed on the electrode surface by intermolecular forces, thus inhibiting copper electrodeposition. Numerical simulation indicated that the process of microvia filling included initial growth period, the outbreak period and the stable growth period, and modeling result was compared with the measured data, and a good agreement was observed.

Research limitations/implications

The research is still in progress with the development of high-performance computers.

Practical implications

A multiphysics coupling platform is an excellent tool for quickly and cheaply studying the electrodeposited process behaviors under a variety of operating conditions.

Social implications

The numerical simulation method has laid the foundation for mechanism of copper electrodeposition.

Originality/value

By using multiphysics coupling technology, the authors built a bridge between theoretical and experimental study for microvia filling. This method can help explain the mechanism of copper electrodeposition.
Networking: a male dominated game
Authors: Socratous Maria
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Using primary data from an online survey in addition to 29 semi-structured interviews among chartered accountants and academics in Cyprus, originally collected for the purposes of a PhD research, this paper aims to investigate the importance of networking with regards to women’s progression in the workplace, as well as the barriers women are faced with in their attempt to “play” the networking game in according to the male rules.

Design/methodology/approach

The use of an inductive approach was considered appropriate since there is little existing research on gender issues in Cypriot organisations. For the purposes of the study, a two-step qualitative approach was taken. Step 1 was an online survey with both closed and open-ended questions delivered to employed Cypriot men and women. Step 2 of the study comprised semi-structured, in-depth interviews. The interviews were conducted with specific, preselected employees, both men and women, comprising chartered accountants from the BIG Four companies in Cyprus and academics working at the University of Cyprus.

Findings

The research reported in this paper suggests that while there is the perception that men and women share the same opportunities within the workplace and women do not progress by choice, there appear to be various structural and cultural influences at play. It is clear that women are restricted from networking opportunities either intentionally or due to cultural and societal norms and this results in minimising their chances of breaking the glass ceiling and progressing to the top of the organisational ladder.

Originality/value

The research focuses on the impediments women in Cyprus are faced with in their attempt to network. There is no previous research on this subject in Cyprus.
Participation of student authors in reports on sustainability
Authors: Schoeps Andreas , Hemmer Ingrid
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Since 2012, the University of Eichstaett-Ingolstadt has been publishing an annual report on sustainability as part of its whole institution approach (WIA). This study aims to examine the participation in writing this report as it is experienced by the student stakeholders involved. The overall goal is to gain expertise concerning further improvement of students’ participation in sustainability-related aspects as part of WIAs.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on an explorative, qualitative study conducted at the Roman Catholic University of Eichstaett-Ingolstadt. Students who have been involved in writing the university’s report on sustainability were interviewed, using in-depth, semi-structured interviews.

Findings

Various categories relevant for a successful participation have been found. Foremost, there are no general barriers seen which are hindering students from participating in writing the reports. Specific students’ motivation can be gained from work-related experiences and sustainability-related university classes. Students perceived the effects of their work as mostly restricted to the university. Their intellectual contribution was regarded as limited owing to structures given and their student worker status. Positive effects included an increased awareness of sustainability-related activities at the university and increased competences regarding research and writing. Suggestions for improvement comprised the instalment of databanks, special sustainability report-writing classes and motivational measures.

Originality/value

Very few studies have addressed the issue of student participation within the WIAs towards sustainable universities. Students’ involvement in writing university reports on sustainability has so far been neglected. Given this, the study presented provides insight into students’ participation and reveals fields needing further development to ensure successful WIAs.
Archiving the archives
Authors: Beard Fred
Published: January 2018

Purpose

When advertising historians began searching for substantial collections and archives of historical advertisements and marketing ephemera in the 1970s, some reported such holdings were rare. This paper aims to report the findings of the first systematic attempt to assess the scope and research value of the world’s archives and collections devoted to advertising and marketing ephemera.

Design/methodology/approach

Searches conducted online of the holdings of museums, libraries and the internet led to the identification and description of 179 archives and collections of historical significance for historians of marketing and advertising, as well as researchers interested in many other topics and disciplines.

Findings

The lists of archives and collections resulting from the research reported in this article represent the most complete collection of such sources available. Identified are the world’s oldest and largest collections of advertising and ephemera. Also identified are quite extraordinary collections of historically unique records and artifacts.

Research limitations/implications

The online searches continued until a point of redundancy was reached and no new archives or collections meeting the search criteria emerged. There remains the likelihood, however, that other archives and collections exist, especially in non-Western countries.

Originality/value

The findings make valuable contributions to the work of historians and other scholars by encouraging more global and cross-cultural research and historical analyses of trends and themes in professional practices in marketing and advertising and their consequences over a longer period than previously studied.
Bundling strategies for complementary products in a horizontal supply chain
Authors: Xu Qingyun , Xu Bing , Wang Ping , He Yi
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to address the following problems: What are the firms’ optimal pricing and quality policies under three scenarios (no bundling, pure bundling and mixed bundling)? In what condition will one bundling strategy dominate the others? How does the degree of complementarity affect the firms’ decision?

Design/methodology/approach

Using the game theory, this study first establishes three models of bundling strategies: no bundling, pure bundling and mixed bundling and then obtains the optimal prices and quality decisions. This study uses numerical analysis to explore the relationships between the prices (demands and profits) and some key parameters and to obtain some valuable management complications.

Findings

Some interesting and valuable management implications are established: regardless of the degree of complementarity, adopting a pure bundling or mixed bundling strategy is better than separately selling an individual product; a high degree of complementarity leads to reduced profit in the no bundling and mixed bundling scenarios, whereas the condition in the pure bundling strategy is the opposite; and when the degree of complementarity is adequately large, choosing pure bundling strategy is more profitable.

Research limitations/implications

On the one hand, this study does not calculate the profit sharing ratio, and hence, the equilibrium profit sharing ratio can be explored in future work. On the other hand, marketing efforts (e.g. advertising and promotion) can be included in the study.

Practical implications

This study derives the necessary conditions for the most effective bundling strategy that maximizes firm’s profits, and these conclusions can provide a decision reference to the bundling decisions of firms.

Originality/value

First, the optimal bundling strategies in a horizontal supply chain consisting of two firms is considered. Under the pure and mixed bundling strategies, the two firms sell the bundled product by building a cooperative program. Second, both the pricing policies and quality decisions of supply chain members under the different bundling strategies are studied.
A system-cybernetic approach to the study of political power. Introductory remarks
Authors: Kasianiuk Krzysztof
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to provide introductory conceptual tools for studying political power in a complex multi-level environment. In particular, it is intended to answer the question of how concepts provided by cybernetics and general systems theory (GST) could serve to foster the study of political power.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective is realized through a reconsideration of a set of the basic concepts of cybernetics, GST and political science. Two system identification models – black box and white box – along with Marian Mazur’s concept of steering are used to deconstruct the classic definition of power formulated by Max Weber. Next, a two-phase procedure for empirical power analysis is proposed. Rudimentary in its scope, the article shows a path of more comprehensive and transformative analyses of key notions.

Findings

It seems that system identification models help uncover structural and functional aspects of political power, which aids the process of analysis of different mechanisms of political power.

Originality/value

The article supports the argument for a conceptual isomorphism between cybernetics and political science. The value of the proposed approach is derived from the combination of two features. First, two aspects of system operation – functional and structural – help to focus research attention on different problems of political power analysis. Second, the interrelation and interdependence of both aspects of systems operation serve as a practical means in the analysis of communication and behavior of actors in the political power processes.
Cluster approach integrating weighted geometric aggregation operator to appraise industrial robot
Authors: Sahu Nitin Kumar , Sahu Atul Kumar , Sahu Anoop Kumar
Published: January 2018

Purpose

Robot appraisement under various dimensions and directions is a crucial issue in real-time manufacturing scenario. Logistic robots are programable-independent movable devices capable of transporting stuffs in a logistic cycle. The purpose of this paper is to opt for the most economical robot under chains of criteria, which is always considered as a sizzling issue in an industrial domain.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors proposed a cluster approach, i.e. ratio analysis, reference point analysis and full mutification form, embedded type-2 fuzzy sets with weighted geometric aggregation operator (WGAO) to tackle the elected problem of industrial robot. The motive to use WGAO coupled with type-2 fuzzy sets is to effectively undertake the uncertainty associated with comprehensive information of professionals against defined dimensions. Furthermore, the cluster approach is used to carry out the comparative analysis for evaluating robust scores against candidate robot’s manufacturing firms, considering 59 crucial beneficial and non-beneficial dimensions. A case research study is carried out to demonstrate the validity of the proposed approach.

Findings

The most challenging task in real-time manufacturing scenario is robot selection for a particular industrial application. This problem has become more complex in recent years because of advanced features and facilities that are continuously being incorporated into the robots by different manufacturers. In the past decade, robots have been selected in accordance with cost criteria excluding other beneficial criteria, which results in declined product quality, customer’s expectation, ill productivity, higher deliver time, etc. The proposed research incorporates the aforesaid issues and provides the various important attributes needed to be considered for the optimum evaluation and selection of industrial robots.

Research limitations/implications

The need for changes in the technological dimensions (speed, productivity, navigation, upgraded product demands, etc.) of robot was encountered as a hardship work for managers to take wise decision dealing with a wide range of availability of robot types and models with distinct features in the manufacturing firms. The presented work aids the managers in taking their decisions effectively while dealing with the aforesaid circumstances.

Originality/value

The proposed work suggests chains of dimensions (59 crucial beneficial and non-beneficial dimensions) that can be used by managers to measure the economic worth of robot to carry out logistic activities in updated manufacturing environment. The proposed work evolves as an effective cluster approach-embedded type-2 fuzzy sets with WGAO to assess manufacturing firms under availability of low information.
Optimising pin-in-paste technology using gradient boosted decision trees
Authors: Martinek Péter , Krammer Oliver
Published: January 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to present a robust prediction method for estimating the quality of electronic products assembled with pin-in-paste soldering technology. A specific board quality factor was also defined which describes the expected yield of the board assembly.

Design/methodology/approach

Experiments were performed to obtain the required input data for developing a prediction method based on decision tree learning techniques. A Type 4 lead-free solder paste (particle size 20–38 µm) was deposited by stencil printing with different printing speeds (from 20 mm/s to 70 mm/s) into the through-holes (0.8 mm, 1 mm, 1.1 mm, 1.4 mm) of an FR4 board. Hole-filling was investigated with X-ray analyses. Three test cases were evaluated.

Findings

The optimal parameters of the algorithm were determined as: subsample is 0.5, learning rate is 0.001, maximum tree depth is 6 and boosting iteration is 10,000. The mean absolute error, root mean square error and mean absolute percentage error resulted in 0.024, 0.03 and 3.5, respectively, on average for the prediction of the hole-filling value, based on the printing speed and hole-diameter after optimisation. Our method is able to predict the hole-filling in pin-in-paste technology for different through-hole diameters.

Originality/value

No research works are available in current literature regarding machine learning techniques for pin-in-paste technology. Therefore, we decided to develop a method using decision tree learning techniques for supporting the design of the stencil printing process for through-hole components and pin-in-paste technology. The first pass yield of the assembly can be enhanced, and the reflow soldering failures of pin-in-paste technology can be significantly reduced.
Fine line screen printed silver electrodes for copper electrodeposition
Authors: Drabczyk Kazimierz
Published: January 2018

Purpose

In this paper, results of the studies on the copper deposition on screen-printed fine-line front electrode of the solar cell were presented. The silver consumption is an important problem according to growing silver prices. The proposed solution of those problems might be printing of a very thin silver seed layer and subsequent copper plating. This process can be an alternative for typically used screen printing. The purpose of this study was the optimization of the finger path fabrication process to obtain required geometric of fingers for copper deposition.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, double-step metallization process was analyzed. The first step of an electrode formation is screen printing, the second one is copper electrodeposition. Presented investigations were focused on the optimization of the finger path fabrication process to obtain required geometric dimensions and sharp border of fingers. The morphology of the electrodes was characterized by scanning electron microscope before and after copper deposition. The X-ray analysis of elemental arrangement and cross-section profiles of fingers were made using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometer.

Findings

Presented investigations were focused on the optimization of the finger path fabrication process to obtain required geometric dimensions and sharp border of fingers without any silver particles. The main problem of non-uniform silver paste distribution close to the border of printed finger paths was eliminated by selection of appropriate paste and printing parameters. The obtained coatings were soft, ductile and bright.

Originality/value

The novelty of the presented approach is modification of the printing parameters, especially for copper deposition. In this paper, the reasons of the widening of electrodes during the copper deposition process is analyzed.
Linking biological soil crust attributes to the multifunctionality of vegetated patches and interspaces in a semiarid shrubland
Authors: Garibotti Irene A. , Gonzalez Polo Marina , Tabeni Solana
Published: January 2018

Understanding the importance of biotic community structure on ecosystem functioning, and whether communities inhabiting different microhabitats in highly heterogeneous areas provide different ecological functions is a challenge in ecological research in the face of biodiversity and habitat loss. Biological soil crusts (BSCs) have been largely treated as unique entities, and have been mostly examined in interspaces between perennial plants, limiting current understanding of their role as drivers of ecosystem functioning and their relative contribution in comparison to vascular plants.

We assessed the role ofBSCs on ecosystem functioning in vegetated patches and interspaces, and how individual soil functions and ecosystem multifunctionality are related to changes inBSCspecies‐ and community‐level attributes. We contemplated nine ecosystem functions associated with soil water dynamics, nutrient cycling and erosion potential.

We found that vegetated patches improve infiltration rates, soil stability and net potential nitrogen (N) mineralization compared to interspaces, and thus dominate multifunctionality. However, well‐developedBSCs improve soil moisture and N pool in both microsites, and are multifunctional stabilizing soils and regulating soil moisture and infiltration in the interspaces.BSCsurface microstructure, including changes in total cover, species richness, morphological functional groups and surface discontinuities, has significant effects on soil moisture. Differences in soil N and phosphorous are mostly related to the presence ofBSC‐lichens. The effect ofBSCs on multifunctionality varies in dependence of the particular set of functions that are sought to simultaneously maximize.

Our results suggest that vascular plants andBSCs have idiosyncratic effects on different key ecosystem functions and multifunction, andBSCs substitute vascular plants in stabilizing soils and regulating water dynamics in the interspaces.BSCs greatly contribute to small‐scale heterogeneity in the functioning of vegetated patches and interspaces, hence consideration ofBSCs in different microsites is essential for enhancing our understanding of their functional relevance at a regional scale. In addition, quantification ofBSCmicrostructure is crucial, owing to the contrasting effects ofBSCspecies‐ and community‐level attributes on different functions and multifunction.

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Forecasting tillage and soil warming effects on earthworm populations
Authors: Johnston Alice S. A. , Sibly Richard M. , Thorbek Pernille
Published: January 2018

Healthy soils are crucial for sustainable food production, but tillage limits the biological regulation of essential ecosystem services. Better understanding of the mechanisms driving management effects on soil ecosystem engineers is needed to support sustainable management under environmental change.

This paper presents the Energy–Environment–Earthworm (EEEworm) model, a mechanistic individual‐based model of Lumbricus terrestris populations. Lumbricus terrestris is a dominant earthworm species in undisturbed habitats and is closely associated with numerous ecosystem services such as water flow regulation, soil structure and crop production. In reduced tillage agriculture, a decline in mechanical disturbance allows for L. terrestris proliferation, whilst the activities of L. terrestris can replace many of the soil functions provided by tillage.

Extensive EEEworm validation with eight published studies (average R2 = .84) demonstrates a mechanistic approach which can extrapolate between diverse soil, management and weather conditions. EEEworm simulation experiments elucidate that a combination of direct and indirect tillage effects leads to population declines in tilled fields, with litter removal from the soil surface being the main driver.

We investigate the effects of different tillage intensities under historical and projected soil warming conditions and find that future warmer and drier soils in our simulation exacerbate the effects of deep ploughing on L. terrestris population declines. These effects result from warmer and drier soil conditions increasing individual metabolic rates and tillage reducing food availability to meet energy demands.

Synthesis and applications. Pre‐emptive strategies to mitigate climate change impacts on soil health in agroecosystems should focus on decreasing tillage intensity and retention of crop residues following tillage. Energy–Environment–Earthworm (EEEworm) has the potential to benefit land managers, policy makers, risk assessors and regulators by providing a tool to forecast how soil systems respond to combinations of land management and environmental change. To allow better cost–benefit analysis of contrasting land management systems, a future aim of mechanistic models like EEEworm is to incorporate the links between earthworm populations, soil functions and ecosystem services.