bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multistage Fragmentation of Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry System and Pseudo-MS3of Triple Quadrupole Mass Spectrometry Characterize Certain (E)-3-(Dimethylamino)-1-arylprop-2-en-1-ones: A Comparative Study
Authors: Abdelhameed Ali S. , Kadi Adnan A. , Abdel-Aziz Hatem A. , Angawi Rihab F. , Attwa Mohamed W. , Al-Rashood Khalid A.
Published: February 2014

A new approach was recently introduced to improve the structure elucidation power of tandem mass spectrometry simulating the MS3of ion trap mass spectrometry system overcoming the different drawbacks of the latter. The fact that collision induced dissociation in the triple quadrupole mass spectrometer system provides richer fragment ions compared to those achieved in the ion trap mass spectrometer system utilizing resonance excitation. Moreover, extracting comprehensive spectra in the ion trap needs multistage fragmentation, whereas similar fragment ions may be acquired from one stage product ion scan using the triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The new strategy was proven to enhance the qualitative performance of tandem mass spectrometry for structural elucidation of different chemical entities. In the current study we are endeavoring to prove our hypothesis of the efficiency of the new pseudo-MS3technique via its comparison with the MS3mode of ion trap mass spectrometry system. Ten pharmacologically and synthetically important (E)-3-(dimethylamino)-1-arylprop-2-en-1-ones (enaminones4a–j) were chosen as model compounds for this study. This strategy permitted rigorous identification of all fragment ions using triple quadrupole mass spectrometer with sufficient specificity. It can be used to elucidate structures of different unknown components. The data presented in this paper provide clear evidence that our new pseudo-MS3may simulate the MS3of ion trap spectrometry system.
An Optimal Portfolio and Capital Management Strategy for Basel III Compliant Commercial Banks
Authors: Muller Grant E. , Witbooi Peter J.
Published: February 2014

We model a Basel III compliant commercial bank that operates in a financial market consisting of a treasury security, a marketable security, and a loan and we regard the interest rate in the market as being stochastic. We find the investment strategy that maximizes an expected utility of the bank’s asset portfolio at a future date. This entails obtaining formulas for the optimal amounts of bank capital invested in different assets. Based on the optimal investment strategy, we derive a model for the Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), which the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) introduced as a measure against banks’ susceptibility to failure. Furthermore, we consider the optimal investment strategy subject to a constant CAR at the minimum prescribed level. We derive a formula for the bank’s asset portfolio at constant (minimum) CAR value and present numerical simulations on different scenarios. Under the optimal investment strategy, the CAR is above the minimum prescribed level. The value of the asset portfolio is improved if the CAR is at its (constant) minimum value.
Neuroprotective Potential of Peroxisome Proliferator Activated Receptor-αAgonist in Cognitive Impairment in Parkinson’s Disease: Behavioral, Biochemical, and PBPK Profile
Authors: Uppalapati Dedeepya , Das Nihar R. , Gangwal Rahul P. , Damre Mangesh V. , Sangamwar Abhay T. , Sharma Shyam S.
Published: February 2014

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder affecting 1% of the population by the age of 65 years and 4-5% of the population by the age of 85 years. PD affects functional capabilities of the patient by producing motor symptoms and nonmotor symptoms. Apart from this, it is also associated with a higher risk of cognitive impairment that may lead to memory loss, confusion, and decreased attention span. In this study, we have investigated the effect of fenofibrate, a PPAR-αagonist in cognitive impairment model in PD. Bilateral intranigral administration of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) (100 µg/1 µL/side) produced significant cognitive dysfunctions. Fenofibrate treatment at 10, 30, and 100 mg/kg for twenty-five days was found to be neuroprotective and improved cognitive impairment in MPTP-induced PD model as evident from behavioral, biochemical (MDA, GSH, TNF-α, and IL-6), immunohistochemistry (TH), and DNA fragmentation (TUNEL positive cells) studies. Further, physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) modeling study was performed using GastroPlus to characterize the kinetics of fenofibric acid in the brain. A good agreement was found between pharmacokinetic parameters obtained from the actual and simulated plasma concentration-time profiles of fenofibric acid. Results of this study suggest that PPAR-αagonist (fenofibrate) is neuroprotective in PD-induced cognitive impairment.
Molecular Imaging in Stem Cell Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Song Fahuan , Tian Mei , Zhang Hong
Published: February 2014

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious disease of the center nervous system (CNS). It is a devastating injury with sudden loss of motor, sensory, and autonomic function distal to the level of trauma and produces great personal and societal costs. Currently, there are no remarkable effective therapies for the treatment of SCI. Compared to traditional treatment methods, stem cell transplantation therapy holds potential for repair and functional plasticity after SCI. However, the mechanism of stem cell therapy for SCI remains largely unknown and obscure partly due to the lack of efficient stem cell trafficking methods. Molecular imaging technology including positron emission tomography (PET), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), optical imaging (i.e., bioluminescence imaging (BLI)) gives the hope to complete the knowledge concerning basic stem cell biology survival, migration, differentiation, and integration in real time when transplanted into damaged spinal cord. In this paper, we mainly review the molecular imaging technology in stem cell therapy for SCI.
Current State of Topical Antimicrobial Therapy in Management of Early Childhood Caries
Authors: Jayabal JayaBaarathi , Mahesh Ramakrishnan
Published: February 2014

The treatment of early childhood caries can have a significant economical burden and treatment relapses are frequent. Effective intervention by means of topical antimicrobial agents can reduce the burden of early childhood caries. The main aim in prevention and treatment should focus on inhibition of the growth of oral bacteria. This is a comprehensive review of the literature on the various antimicrobial agents which are proven to be effective in management of this carious progression. The review identified that there is a significant data to suggest use of antimicrobial agents in management of early childhood caries. Antimicrobial agents aid in better management of patients with early carious lesion. The relapse rates are less, when the treatment is combined with the use of antimicrobial agent.
Kinetics of Thermolysis of Nickel(II) Perchlorate Complex with n-Propylamine
Authors: Singh Chandra Prakash , Singh Abhishek
Published: February 2014

Complex of nickel perchlorate with n-propylamine has been synthesised with molecular formula [Ni(n-pa)3(ClO4)(H2O)]ClO4. It has been characterised by elemental analysis, thermogravimetry, UV-VIS, and IR spectroscopic data. Thermal properties have been investigated by thermogravimetry (TG) in static air and by simultaneous thermogravimetry-derivative thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis (TG-DTG-DTA) in flowing nitrogen atmosphere. Kinetics of thermolysis has been analysed applying model-fitting and model-free isoconversional method on isothermal TG data recorded at five different temperatures. To observe the response of complex towards fast heating, explosion delay time has been recorded at various temperatures and kinetics of explosion has been studied using these data.
Lenalidomide and Dexamethasone for a Patient of POEMS Syndrome Presenting with Massive Ascites
Authors: Ueda Shuji , Yonemoto Sayoko , Oka Kazumasa , Fujii Naohiko , Nakata Keiichi , Matsunaga Hitomi , Kataoka Seiko , Iwama Yuki , Narahara Hiroyuki , Yasunaga Yuichi , Inui Yoshiaki , Kawata Sumio
Published: February 2014

POEMS syndrome is a multisystem disorder characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal gammopathy, and skin changes. POEMS syndrome is a rare cause of refractory ascites. We report the case of a patient with POEMS syndrome presenting with massive ascites who was treated with very-low-dose lenalidomide and dexamethasone. A 57-year-old Japanese man was admitted to our hospital with pleural effusion, massive ascites, and leg edema. The diagnosis of POEMS syndrome was made based on the combination of the following findings: peripheral neuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, serum monoclonal protein elevation, skin changes, plasma VEGF elevation, and evidence of extravascular volume overload. Renal dysfunction induced by biopsy-proven renal involvement of POEMS syndrome was observed. Massive ascites of the patient dramatically diminished with long-time treatment of very-low-dose lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Lenalidomide seems to be a very promising therapy for POEMS syndrome presenting with extravascular volume overload such as edema, pleural effusion, and ascites. Very-low-dose lenalidomide might be effective especially for the patients with POEMS-related nephropathy.
Surgical Management of a Completely Avulsed Adductor Longus Muscle in a Professional Equestrian Rider
Authors: Quah Conal , Cottam Andrew , Hutchinson James
Published: February 2014

Avulsion injuries of the adductor longus muscle tendon are rare and a challenge to manage especially in athletes. There has been little published literature on the outcome of conservative and operative treatment for these injuries. We report the first case of an acute adductor longus avulsion injury which was surgically repaired in a professional equestrian rider. Return to full preinjury function was achieved at 3 months with surgical repair using 3 suture anchors.
Homoclinic Solutions for a Class of Second Order Nonautonomous Singular Hamiltonian Systems
Authors: Zhang Ziheng , Liao Fang-Fang , Wong Patricia J. Y.
Published: February 2014

We are concerned with the existence of homoclinic solutions for the following second order nonautonomous singular Hamiltonian systemsu¨+atWuu=0, (HS) where-∞<t<+∞,u=u1,u2, …,uN∈ℝNN≥3,a:ℝ→ℝis a continuous bounded function, and the potentialW:ℝN∖{ξ}→ℝhas a singularity at0≠ξ∈ℝN, andWuuis the gradient ofWatu. The novelty of this paper is that, for the case thatN≥3and (HS) is nonautonomous (neither periodic nor almost periodic), we show that (HS) possesses at least one nontrivial homoclinic solution. Our main hypotheses are the strong force condition of Gordon and the uniqueness of a global maximum ofW. Different from the cases that (HS) is autonomousat≡1or (HS) is periodic or almost periodic, as far as we know, this is the first result concerning the case that (HS) is nonautonomous andN≥3. Besides the usual conditions onW, we need the assumption thata′t<0for allt∈ℝto guarantee the existence of homoclinic solution. Recent results in the literature are generalized and significantly improved.
Polymorphic Uncertain Linear Programming for Generalized Production Planning Problems
Authors: Zhang Xinbo , Zhang Feng , Chen Xiaohong , Wan Zhong
Published: February 2014

A polymorphic uncertain linear programming (PULP) model is constructed to formulate a class of generalized production planning problems. In accordance with the practical environment, some factors such as the consumption of raw material, the limitation of resource and the demand of product are incorporated into the model as parameters of interval and fuzzy subsets, respectively. Based on the theory of fuzzy interval program and the modified possibility degree for the order of interval numbers, a deterministic equivalent formulation for this model is derived such that a robust solution for the uncertain optimization problem is obtained. Case study indicates that the constructed model and the proposed solution are useful to search for an optimal production plan for the polymorphic uncertain generalized production planning problems.
Dynamical Analysis in a Delayed Predator-Prey System with Stage-Structure for Both the Predator and the Prey
Authors: Zhang Zizhen , Yang Huizhong
Published: February 2014

A predator-prey system with two delays and stage-structure for both the predator and the prey is considered. Sufficient conditions for the local stability and the existence of periodic solutions via Hopf bifurcation with respect to both delays are obtained by analyzing the distribution of the roots of the associated characteristic equation. Specially, the direction of the Hopf bifurcation and the stability of the periodic solutions bifurcating from the Hopf bifurcation are determined by applying the normal form theory and center manifold argument. Some numerical simulations for justifying the theoretical analysis are also provided.
Unique Presentation of Giant Metastatic Microcystic Serous Adenocarcinoma of the Pancreas
Authors: Philips Cyriac Abby , Kalal Chetan Ramesh , Bihari Chhagan , Sahney Amrish , Kumar KN Chandan , Rastogi Archana
Published: February 2014

Tumors of the pancreas that contain substantial cystic components include mainly mucinous cystic neoplasm, intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm, solid pseudopapillary tumor, and cystadenomas (which encompass microcystic, macrocystic/oligocystic, and rare solid serous adenomas). Microcystic adenoma of the pancreas is a tumor that is benign in nature. Malignant transformation in the tumor with metastases is rare and only about 26 cases have been reported so far. Here we present a giant microcystic adenoma of the pancreas, possibly the largest ever malignant type in this group ever reported in the literature with extensive metastases to the liver and causing extensive compression and encasement on surrounding structures.
A Data‐Driven Control Design Approach for Freeway Traffic Ramp Metering with Virtual Reference Feedback Tuning
Authors: Jin Shangtai , Hou Zhongsheng , Chi Ronghu , Hao Jiangen
Published: February 2014

ALINEA is a simple, efficient, and easily implemented ramp metering strategy. Virtual reference feedback tuning (VRFT) is most suitable for many practical systems since it is a “one‐shot” data‐driven control design methodology. This paper presents an application of VRFT to a ramp metering problem of freeway traffic system. When there is not enough prior knowledge of the controlled system to select a proper parameter of ALINEA, the VRFT approach is used to optimize the ALINEA′s parameter by only using a batch of input and output data collected from the freeway traffic system. The extensive simulations are built on both the macroscopic MATLAB platform and the microscopic PARAMICS platform to show the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed data‐driven controller tuning approach.
Ovarian Aging-Like Phenotype in the Hyperandrogenism-Induced Murine Model of Polycystic Ovary
Authors: Rezvanfar Mohammad Amin , Shojaei Saadi Habib A. , Gooshe Maziar , Abdolghaffari Amir Hosein , Baeeri Maryam , Abdollahi Mohammad
Published: February 2014

There are prominently similar symptoms, effectors, and commonalities in the majority of characteristics between ovarian aging and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Despite the approved role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of PCOS and aging, to our knowledge, the link between the PCO(S) and aging has not been investigated yet. In this study we investigated the possible exhibition of ovarian aging phenotype in murine model of PCO induced by daily oral administration of letrozole (1 mg/kg body weight) for 21 consecutive days in the female Wistar rats. Hyperandrogenization showed irregular cycles and histopathological characteristics of PCO which was associated with a significant increase in lipid peroxidation (LPO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) and decrease in total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in serum and ovary. Moreover, serum testosterone, insulin and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) levels, and ovarian matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) were increased in PCO rats compared with healthy controls, while estradiol and progesterone diminished. Almost all of these findings are interestingly found to be common with the characteristics identified with (ovarian) aging showing that hyperandrogenism-induced PCO in rat is associated with ovarian aging-like phenotypes. To our knowledge, this is the first report that provides evidence regarding the phenomenon of aging in PCO.
Combining First-Person Video and Gaze-Tracking in Medical Simulation: A Technical Feasibility Study
Authors: Szulewski Adam , Howes Daniel
Published: February 2014

Crisis decision-making is an important responsibility of the resuscitation team leader but a difficult process to study. The purpose of this pilot study was to explore the potential of gaze-tracking technology to study decision-making and leadership behaviours in simulated medical emergencies. We studied five physicians with a broad range of experience in a simulated medical emergency using gaze-tracking glasses. Subjects were interviewed immediately after the scenario while viewing a first-person recording of their performance with a superimposed gaze indicator. The recordings were then studied independently by two reviewers, and rated for quality and their observations collated. Portable gaze-tracking devices were found to be useful and effective tools for studying information gathering and decision-making behaviours in simulated medical emergencies. The data obtained in this study provided information about the discrepancy between what each participant looked at compared to what each participant consciously noted. Analysis of the data also identified a number of recurrent gaze patterns performed by team leaders that could be used as end-points in future research. Gaze-tracking in resuscitation medicine is a new and promising field of study. The potential to study crisis decision-making behaviours, and cognitive load, as well as differences between novice and expert team leaders is substantial.
Improving the Efficacy of Chemoradiation with Targeted Agents
Authors: Morgan Meredith A. , Parsels Leslie A. , Maybaum Jonathan , Lawrence Theodore S.
Published: February 2014

Chemoradiation is the standard therapy for the majority of inoperable, locally advanced cancers. Although there is a need to improve chemoradiation efficacy, normal-tissue toxicity limits our ability to give additional chemotherapy or higher doses of radiation. Thus, there is excitement about the addition of molecularly targeted agents, which tend to be less toxic than chemotherapy, to chemoradiation regimens. Unfortunately, initial empiric attempts have not been successful. This review will focus on the evidence that supports rational combinations of targeted agents with chemoradiation, with an emphasis on agents that target the DNA damage response and radiation-induced membrane signaling.

Significance: Too often, clinical trials are designed without comprehensive preclinical investigation. To design more rational trials of targeted agents with chemoradiation, it is necessary to understand the complex biology underlying the interactions between the targeted agent and chemoradiation. Thorough preclinical studies to evaluate key issues such as mechanisms of interaction, scheduling, selection of the appropriate patients through the use of biomarkers, and normal-tissue toxicity will lead to improved clinical trial designs and patient outcomes. Cancer Discov; 4(3); 280–91. ©2014 AACR.
Stimulation of Suicidal Erythrocyte Death by Increased Extracellular Phosphate Concentrations
Authors: Voelkl Jakob , Alzoubi Kousi , Mamar Abdel-Karim , Ahmed Mohamed Siyabeldin E. , Abed Majed , Lang Florian
Published: February 2014

Background/Aim: Anemia in renal insufficiency results in part from impaired erythrocyte formation due to erythropoietin and iron deficiency. Beyond that, renal insufficiency enhances eryptosis, the suicidal erythrocyte death characterized by phosphatidylserine-exposure at the erythrocyte surface. Eryptosis may be stimulated by increase of cytosolic Ca2+-activity ([Ca2+]i). Several uremic toxins have previously been shown to stimulate eryptosis. Renal insufficiency is further paralleled by increase of plasma phosphate concentration. The present study thus explored the effect of phosphate on erythrocyte death. Methods: Cell volume was estimated from forward scatter, phosphatidylserine-exposure from annexin V binding, and [Ca2+]i from Fluo3-fluorescence. Results: Following a 48 hours incubation, the percentage of phosphatidylserine exposing erythrocytes markedly increased as a function of extracellular phosphate concentration (from 0-5 mM). The exposure to 2 mM or 5 mM phosphate was followed by slight but significant hemolysis. [Ca2+]i did not change significantly up to 2 mM phosphate but significantly decreased at 5 mM phosphate. The effect of 2 mM phosphate on phosphatidylserine exposure was significantly augmented by increase of extracellular Ca2+ to 1.7 mM, and significantly blunted by nominal absence of extracellular Ca2+, by additional presence of pyrophosphate as well as by presence of p38 inhibitor SB203580. Conclusion: Increasing phosphate concentration stimulates erythrocyte membrane scrambling, an effect depending on extracellular but not intracellular Ca2+ concentration. It is hypothesized that suicidal erythrocyte death is triggered by complexed CaHPO4.
DNA Methylation of the TNF-α Promoter Region in Peripheral Blood Monocytes and the Cortex of Human Alzheimer's Disease Patients
Authors: Kaut Oliver , Ramirez Alfredo , Pieper Heike , Schmitt Ina , Jessen Frank , Wüllner Ullrich
Published: February 2014

Background: The cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is elevated in the blood of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients. Epigenetic DNA modifications of the TNF-α promoter may account for the observed upregulation. Methods: We analyzed blood samples of 50 AD patients and 55 controls plus 4 AD and 4 control cortex samples using bisulfite sequencing PCR. Results: A significant hypomethylation of the TNF-α promoter was found in AD patients' brains but not in their blood. Cortical TNF-α promoter DNA was higher methylated than blood-derived DNA, both in AD patients and controls. Conclusion: In AD patients, epigenetic mechanisms of TNF-α gene regulation, like aberrant DNA methylation, are not relevant in blood.
Interleukin-13-Mediated Paneth Cell Degranulation and Antimicrobial Peptide Release
Authors: Stockinger Silvia , Albers Thorben , Duerr Claudia U. , Ménard Sandrine , Pütsep Katrin , Andersson Mats , Hornef Mathias W.
Published: February 2014

Paneth cell-derived enteric antimicrobial peptides significantly contribute to antibacterial host defense and host-microbial homeostasis. Regulation occurs by enzymatic processing and release into the small intestinal lumen, but the stimuli involved are incompletely understood. Here, the capacity of various microbial and immune stimuli to induce antimicrobial peptide release from small intestinal tissue was systematically evaluated using antibacterial activity testing, immunostaining for Paneth cell granules and mass spectrometry. We confirmed the stimulatory activity of the muscarinic receptor agonist carbachol and the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain ligand muramyl dipeptide. In contrast, no release of antibacterial activity was noted after treatment with the Toll-like receptor ligands poly(I:C), lipopolysaccharide or CpG, and the cytokines interleukin (IL)-15, IL-22, IL-28 and interferon-γ. Rapid Paneth cell degranulation and antimicrobial activity release, however, was observed after stimulation with the endogenous mediators IL-4 and IL-13. This process required phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase and was associated with protein kinase B phosphorylation in Paneth cells. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed expression of the IL-13 receptor α1 on isolated Paneth cells. Our findings identify a novel role of IL-13 as inducer of Paneth cell degranulation and enteric antimicrobial peptide release. IL-13 may thus contribute to mucosal antimicrobial host defense and host microbial homeostasis.
Efficacy of XELOX plus Bevacizumab in Brain Metastasis from Rectal Cancer
Authors: Yoshida Yoichiro , Hoshino Seiichiro , Aisu Naoya , Naito Masayasu , Tanimura Syu , Sasaki Takamitsu , Takeno Shinsuke , Yamashita Yuichi
Published: February 2014

Brain metastasis (BM) is rare in colorectal cancer (CRC) patients. Although BM from CRC is a late-stage phenomenon with an extremely poor prognosis, some subsets of patients would benefit from a multidisciplinary management strategy. The prognosis of patients with BM from CRC was associated with the curability of the therapy for BM and the number of metastatic organs. Metastatic brain tumors are generally treated with radiotherapy because many anticancer drugs cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. Here, we present a case treated with XELOX (capecitabine and oxaliplatin) plus bevacizumab for BM from rectal cancer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a patient who was successfully treated for BM from CRC without radiotherapy. The findings could lead to a paradigm shift in the use of chemotherapy for BM from CRC.
Unilateral Intracranial Arteriopathy in Pediatric Stroke
Authors: Yeon Je Young , Shin Hyung Jin , Seol Ho Jun , Kim Jong-Soo , Hong Seung-Chyul
Published: February 2014

Background and Purpose—

The nonprogressive, often reversible, unilateral arteriopathy known as transient (focal) cerebral arteriopathy has become a leading cause of childhood arterial ischemic stroke. However, it is not a well-recognized arteriopathy in East Asian countries where moyamoya disease is prevalent.

Methods—

We retrospectively reviewed 74 children and adolescents (<18 years) with arterial ischemic stroke and intracranial arteriopathy to identify 29 patients with unilateral large-artery arteriopathy mainly in the anterior circulation. Among them, 25 patients who fulfilled the following inclusion criteria were analyzed to determine the angiographic course and outcome: (1) repeated vascular imaging at least twice and (2) absence of thrombotic disorders or cardiac diseases.

Results—

The course of unilateral arteriopathy was classified as reversible in 17 patients (68%), progressive in 5 (20%), and stable in 3 (12%). Nine of the 17 patients with reversible arteriopathy exhibited initial worsening of the arteriopathy mostly within 1 month, but the worsened arteriopathy began to improve within 3 months and continued to improve even after a few years. Two of these 9 patients experienced stroke progression at 6 days. Of the variables analyzed, infarction involving the basal ganglia (15 of 17) and arterial beading on angiography performed within 2 weeks (10 of 12) were associated with reversible arteriopathy. Involvement of the ipsilateral posterior cerebral artery was rare (1 of 17).

Conclusions—

The possibility of reversible arteriopathy should be suspected in children and adolescents presenting with arterial ischemic stroke and unilateral arteriopathy.
Jewish Court Physicians in the Mamluk Sultanate during the First Half of the 8th/14th Century
Authors: Mazor Amir
Published: February 2014

Abstract

It is usually accepted among modern scholars that the Mamluk period marked a drastic decline in the position of non-Muslims. Jews and Christians were exposed to increasing persecutions and, inter alia, could not serve as great physicians unless they converted to Islam. Against these assumptions, the article discusses new data regarding three Jewish court physicians from the first half of the 8th/14th century. Despite being under a strong pressure to convert, these doctors gained honorable positions and a high social status in the Mamluk sultanate. As erudite physicians and skillful practitioners, they were integrated with the highest circles of the political, military and especially intellectual Muslim elite of their time.
Implementation of the Directive 2011/24/eu in the Czech Republic
Authors: Prudil Lukáš
Published: February 2014

Abstract

The article describes implementation of the Directive 2011/24/eu in the Czech Republic, its consequences with individual patient’s rights and financing of healthcare for citizens of the European Union.
Cross-border Healthcare in Spain and the Implementation of the Directive 2011/24/eu on the Application of Patient’s Rights in Cross-border Healthcare
Authors: Requejo M.ª Teresa
Published: February 2014

Abstract

This work describes and assesses the implementation of the Cross-border Healthcare Directive in Spain. Although implementation has not yet taken place, the Government has already adopted a draft implementing regulation, on which this article is based. In addition, this article deals with a number of other rules that have been adopted in Spain, which are not strictly aimed at the implementation of the Directive but which are expected to facilitate its implementation and to help cement its effectiveness.
Implementation of the Patients’ Rights in Cross-border Healthcare Directive in Latvia
Authors: Olsena Solvita
Published: February 2014

Abstract

Latvia, being one of the eu Member States, has an obligation to implement the rules stated by the Directive 2011/24/eu on Patients’ Rights in Cross-border Healthcare (hereinafter — the Directive) before 25 October 2013 in existing national legislation and practice. Implementation was carried out under pressured circumstances. A National Contact Point has been established, information is provided for patients in Latvian and to some extent in English, the Medical Treatment Risk Fund will start operations to provide compensation for harm, and the restrictions and procedure for prior authorisation have been stated. The need to secure quality of care and patient safety and well as privacy protection are the most challenging tasks for Latvia. It can be concluded that some progress in patients’ rights can be achieved, but it is doubtful if patients’ mobility will be stimulated.
New combinations in Aeridinae (Orchidaceae)
Authors: Kocyan Alexander , Schuiteman André
Published: February 2014

New combinations are made in the genera Arachnis, Brachypeza, Dimorphorchis, Grosourdya, Phalaenopsis, Renanthera, Robiquetia, Taeniophyllum, Thrixspermum, Trachoma and Trichoglottis. Two new subgenera are established in Phalaenopsis (subgen. Ornithochilus and Hygrochilus). These changes are proposed to begin aligning the genera recognized in subtribe Aeridinae with results of recent DNA analyses (published elsewhere).
Three new Nannastacidae (Crustacea: Cumacea) species from a Caribbean mesophotic ecosystem
Authors: PETRESCU IORGU , CHATTERJEE TAPAS , SCHIZAS NIKOLAOS V.
Published: February 2014

Examination of substrata from the mesophotic reefs of Mona Island, Puerto Rico yielded 3 new species of cumaceans, all from the family Nannastacidae: Cumella achimae sp. nov., C. victoriae sp. nov. and Nannastacus craciuni sp. nov. The 3 new species bring the total of new cumacean taxa described from the mesophotic reefs of US Caribbean to 9, highlighting the potential of mesophotic reefs as a biodiversity hotspot. For the first time we report the genus Nannastacus from the Caribbean Sea.
Three new species of the genus Paederus Fabricius (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae: Paederinae) from China
Authors: LI XIAO-YAN , SOLODOVNIKOV ALEXEY , ZHOU HONG-ZHANG
Published: February 2014

Three new species of the genus Paederus Fabricius from China are described: Paederus bilobus sp. nov. from Hainan, P. lateralis sp. nov. from Yunnan, and P. brunneolus sp. nov. from Xinjiang.
First record of genus Nabicerus Kwon (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae: Idiocerinae) from China, with descriptions of two new species
Authors: XUE QINGQUAN , ZHANG YALIN
Published: February 2014

Nabicerus Kwon is reported from China for the first time based on two new species, N. dentimus and N. baculatus spp. nov., and a new Chinese record of N. fuscescens (Anufriev, 1971). Species of this genus are described and illustrated. A redescription of the genus is provided together with a checklist and key to species for the separation of males.
The male of Sauris mouliniei (Legrand, 1971) comb. n. (Lepidoptera: Geometridae: Larentiinae: Trichopterygini), an endemic Inner Seychelles moth
Authors: BOLOTOV IVAN N. , FROLOV ARTEM A. , KOLOSOVA YULIA S. , KONDAKOV ALEXANDER V.
Published: February 2014

The history of lepidopteran studies of the Inner Seychelles is about one hundred years old, and the data have been summarized recently in a comprehensive monograph (Gerlach & Matyot 2006). The largest granitic islands contain the greatest number of species—345 for Mahé and 288 for Silhouette—but the second largest, Praslin, has only 42 recorded species. A total of 17 Geometridae species occur in the granitic Seychelles. Among them are six species of Larentiinae with two endemics, including Episteira mouliniei Legrand, 1971, a unique Trichopterygini for these islands (Gerlach & Matyot 2006). This species was described based on a single female specimen in the genus Episteira Warren, 1899. The previously unknown male of the taxon is described herein.
Performance of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers in Spanish-Speaking Patients
Authors: Kimple Kelly S. , Bartelt Erica A. , Wysocki Karen L. , Steiner Michael J.
Published: February 2014

Objective. To compare abnormal screening rates of 2 different Spanish versions of the Modified Checklist for Autism in Toddlers (M-CHAT) in US Spanish-speaking patients. Method. Quasi-experimental design was used with historical and English language controls. Abnormal screening rates were compared between Spain and Western-hemisphere Spanish versions, as well as to English controls during the same time periods using chi square analysis. Results. M-CHAT questionnaires were scored from 589 subjects (English n = 415, Spanish n = 174). There was little difference between Spanish versions. Overall, the Spanish abnormal screening rate was double that of English (23.6% vs 11.3%, P < .001). Conclusions. Spanish M-CHAT questionnaires are abnormal more often than those in English even after changing to appropriate translation, despite lower prevalence of autism in Latinos. Issues with translation, interpretation, or cultural understanding of behaviors may contribute. Given abnormal screening rates for Latinos, the use of the M-CHAT follow-up interview in Spanish-speaking patients is beneficial but may be more time-consuming.
A Model of Academic Self-Concept
Authors: Wilson Hope E. , Siegle Del , McCoach D. Betsy , Little Catherine A. , Reis Sally M.
Published: February 2014

Academic self-concept predicts students’ future goals and is affected by a student’s relative success compared with his or her peer group. This exploratory study used structural equation modeling to examine the contributions of the perceived level of difficulty of the curriculum, in addition to the contributions of social comparison and achievement in schoolwork, to academic self-concept among students enrolled in advanced coursework. Along with school achievement, perceived difficulty and social comparison also predicted academic self-concept. The final model indicated that students differentiate between learner self-concept, which is how students perceived their ability to understand new ideas or knowledge, and student self-concept, which is how they perceived their abilities to succeed in school-related tasks. Of these two constructs, student self-concept was a better predictor of future goals; however, the overall effect was small.
Using Scanpaths as a Learning Method for a Conflict Detection Task of Multiple Target Tracking
Authors: Kang Ziho , Landry Steven J.
Published: February 2014

Objective:

The objective was to determine whether the scanpaths of air traffic controllers (ATCs) could be used to improve the performance of novices in a conflict detection task.

Background:

Studies in other domains show that novice performance can be improved by exposure to experts’ scanpaths. Whether this effect can be found for an aircraft conflict detection task is unknown.

Method:

Scanpaths of 25 professional ATCs (“experts”) were recorded using a medium-fidelity air traffic control simulation with realistic scripted traffic that included aircraft pairs that would lose separation. A total of 20 novices were exposed to experts’ scanpaths (“treatment”), and their performance (for both loss of separation detection rates and false alarm rates) was compared to that of 20 novices given no treatment or instructions (“control”) and 20 novices who were verbally instructed to attend to altitude (“instruction-only”). Interviews were held about the helpfulness of the exposure. The scanpaths were analyzed to find pattern differences among the three groups.

Results:

Chi-square tests showed significant differences for false alarm rates across the three groups ( p = .001). Pairwise Mann–Whitney tests showed that the number of false alarms for the treatment group was significantly lower than that for the control group ( p = .005), and trended lower than the instruction-only group ( p = .08). Treatment group participants responded that experts’ scanpaths helped. Analysis of scanpaths showed an increased tendency of the scanpath treatment group to follow the experts’ scanpath.

Conclusion:

The scanpath training intervention improved novice performance by reducing false alarms.

Application:

Implementing experts’ scanpaths into novices’ active learning process shows promise in enhancing training effectiveness and reducing training time.
A visual interactive simulation application for minimizing risk and improving outbound logistical efficiency in time-sensitive attended home deliveries and services
Authors: Herrel Keith
Published: February 2014

Outbound logistic initiatives for business-to-consumer attended home deliveries have conventionally been fraught with uncertainties due to random customer demand and the exorbitant operational costs of servicing individual residences. Exacerbating this uncertainty is the inability to adequately visualize order capture, vehicle dispatch, deliveries, and vehicle return with interactive simulation applications that permit intuitive and interactive sensitivity analyses by incorporating variables such as profitability, friction of transportation distance, and varying customer populations per regions. This research introduces and displays a visual simulation application that incorporates the above factors into an animated user interface while generating various data-intensive reports in real time. The fully functional application is planned to be implemented as a web service for enterprises either considering home-delivery initiatives, or as an in-house enterprise supply-chain optimization engine for firms looking to streamline their existing outbound “last-mile” logistic strategies.
Big Data: Methodological Challenges and Approaches for Sociological Analysis
Authors: Tinati Ramine , Halford Susan , Carr Leslie , Pope Catherine
Published: February 2014

The emergence of Big Data is both promising and challenging for social research. This article suggests that realising this promise has been restricted by the methods applied in social science research, which undermine our potential to apprehend the qualities that make Big Data so appealing, not least in relation to the sociology of networks and flows. With specific reference to the micro-blogging website Twitter, the article outlines a set of methodological principles for approaching these data that stand in contrast to previous research; and introduces a new tool for harvesting and analysing Twitter built on these principles. We work our argument through an analysis of Twitter data linked to political protest over UK university fees. Our approach transcends earlier methodological limitations to offer original insights into the flow of information and the actors and networks that emerge in this flow.
Book Review: Articulate While Black: Barack Obama, Language, and Race in the U.S.
Authors: Ruef Jennifer L.
Published: February 2014

This review highlights the ways in which race is heard and played to advantage or disadvantage. From Barack Obama’s redefinition of presidential—through his deft linguistic style-shifting—to the ways race is read in the speech of students and the general public, Articulate While Black (AWB) challenges the notion of a postracial United States and persuades the reader that who decides the power of racialized English is an open question. Furthermore, it is a call to action for teachers to change the ways race is heard, leveraged, and celebrated in classrooms dedicated to equity and social justice.
Are We Segregated and Satisfied? Segregation and Inequality in Southern California Schools
Authors: Kucsera John V. , Siegel-Hawley Genevieve , Orfield Gary
Published: February 2014

Southern California is facing a demographic transformation that will become characteristic of the nation as a whole in coming decades. In this research, we present a historical review of the region’s attempt to address school inequity, recent enrollment and segregation trends, and an investigation of whether segregation still matters. Our results indicate that school segregation has increased, with inequitable access to learning opportunities and resources enduring. Policies advocating integration by some combination of socioeconomic status, race, and/or linguistic background are legal, offer real possibilities, and should be used in Southern California and other similar regions across the nation.
Crisis and resilience in a finance-led city: Effects of the global financial crisis in Leeds
Authors: Gonzalez Sara , Oosterlynck Stijn
Published: February 2014

This paper looks at the impacts of the 2008 global financial crisis on Leeds, a medium sized city in northern England, which in the last decades has specialised in finance-related economic activities. Our aim is to understand if the largely neoliberal pre-crisis urban growth model pursued in Leeds, based significantly on real estate speculation, retail and finance, was put at risk by the crisis and whether a collective reflection by local leaders took place about the need to change direction. To do that we have conducted interviews with experts in the city and analysed policy documents in detail. We focus, in particular, on how the crisis was constructed as affecting Leeds and more specifically if the socio-economic development trajectory and associated urban governance model have changed. We conclude that there has been little reflection and questioning of the underlying principles of the urban growth and governance model in Leeds.
National Tourism Policy and Spatial Patterns of Domestic Tourism in South Korea
Authors: Kang Sanghoon , Kim Jinwon , Nicholls Sarah
Published: February 2014

The implementation of national tourism policy is manifested in the development of destinations and in patterns of tourism activity. Based on Brenner’s notions of spatial rescaling and spatial selectivity, this study assesses the changing distribution of domestic tourism in South Korea between 1989 and 2011, and relates these changes to the national tourism policies put in place during those years. Spatial statistical techniques including Moran’s global I statistic and local indicators of spatial association are employed. Findings suggest that while domestic tourism activity became less concentrated at the macro level during the study period, at a finer scale it is clear that this deconcentration is nevertheless occurring in a clustered manner. Thus, while the traditional emphasis on Seoul and the southeast appears to have declined, the distribution of tourism’s benefits is still uneven. Observations with regards to future tourism policy and concomitant spatial patterns of development and activity are provided.
How Does Emotional Solidarity Factor into Visitor Spending among Birders in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of Texas?
Authors: Woosnam Kyle M. , Dudensing Rebekka M. , Walker Jamie Rae
Published: February 2014

While most work focusing on emotional solidarity has examined its antecedents, this work highlights outcomes of the construct in the form of visitor expenditures among nature tourists. During the peak tourist season for birders and other outdoor enthusiasts in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, on-site survey data were collected from individuals visiting key nature tourist attractions. In examining the relationship between emotional solidarity and visitor expenditures, results revealed that five of the eight multiple regression models were significant. Of the three Emotional Solidarity Scale (ESS) factors used to predict expenditures, feeling welcomed explained the most variance. This work provides continued support for extending Durkheim’s model of emotional solidarity by including expenditures as an outcome of the construct.
Criterion-related and construct validity of the Problem Gambling Severity Index in a sample of South African gamblers
Authors: Dellis Andrew , Sharp Carla , Hofmeyr Andre , Schwardmann Peter M , Spurrett David , Rousseau Jacques , Ross Don
Published: February 2014

The Problem Gambling Severity Index, the scored module of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, is a population-based survey instrument that is becoming the preferred epidemiological tool for estimating the prevalence of disordered gambling. While some validation evidence for the Problem Gambling Severity Index is available, very little is known about its psychometric characteristics in developing countries or in countries the populations of which are not highly Westernised. The aim of this study was to investigate the validity of the Problem Gambling Severity Index with a specific focus on its criterion-related and construct (concurrent) validity in a community sample of gamblers in South Africa ( n = 127). To this end, the Problem Gambling Severity Index was administered alongside the Diagnostic Interview for Gambling Severity and measures known to associate with gambling severity (impulsivity, current debt, social problems, financial loss, race, sex). Results showed that the Problem Gambling Severity Index was predictive of Diagnostic Interview for Gambling Severity diagnosis from both a categorical and dimensional point of view and demonstrated high discrimination accuracy for subjects with problem gambling. Analysis of sensitivity and specificity at different cut-points suggests that a slightly lower Problem Gambling Severity Index score may be used as a screening cut-off for problem gambling among South African gamblers. The Problem Gambling Severity Index also showed significant correlations with the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale, a widely known measure of impulsivity, and with some of the predicted behavioural variables of interest (gambling activities, money lost to gambling, current debt, interpersonal conflict). This article therefore demonstrates initial criterion and concurrent validity for the Problem Gambling Severity Index for use in South African samples.
It’s About Time! Gender, Parenthood, and Household Divisions of Labor Under Different Welfare Regimes
Authors: Neilson Jeffrey , Stanfors Maria
Published: February 2014

Having young children generally intensifies gendered patterns of time use. During the 1990s, this pattern changed in several Nordic countries, where welfare state arrangements support gender equality and work–family balance more comprehensively than elsewhere. We investigate the impact of parenthood on men’s and women’s time use across welfare state regimes, performing ordinary least squares regressions using data from the Multinational Time Use Study for Germany, Italy, and Canada ( N = 57,367 weekdays/53,292 weekends). We find convergence of men’s and women’s time use over the 1990s but uncover no strong evidence of the Nordic pattern emerging elsewhere. Instead, in countries with less comprehensive family policies and less support for gender equality, parenthood continued to reinforce traditional patterns of behavior on weekdays. There is evidence of change on weekends in Germany and Canada, where fathers became more involved domestically, but not in Italy, suggesting certain welfare state regimes may preserve gendered behavior more than others.