bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Histology and Histometric Anatomy of the Male Reproductive System of Bat (Eidolon helvum)
Authors: Danmaigoro A. , Onu J. E. , Sonfada M. L. , Umaru M. A. , Oyelowo F. O.
Published: April 2014

The male reproductive system of fruit bat (Eidolon helvum) was studied histologically using light microscope. Thirty males (17 adults and 13 juveniles) were captured using net, weighed, aged using relative ossification of the wing bone, and dissected and reproductive tissue was processed for histomorphometry. On the basis of histological sections, the structures of a pair of testis containing the seminiferous tubules of adults were compacted in organization with spermatogenic cells. The epididymis has a thinner muscular region than the vas deferens with longitudinal folds on the mucosal lining. Two portions were observed in the prostate gland, while seminal vesicle has numerous trabeculae and bulbourethral gland was observed to have multiacini. There was increase in thickness of muscular region, epithelial height, and luminal diameter of epididymis and vas deferens between adults and juveniles. This work has documented the histology of the male reproductive system in bats, and ultrastructure and histochemistry are recommended for further insight into the reproductive biology.
Determining Transmission Coefficient of Propagating Solitary Wave over Trapezoidal Breakwater and Parametric Studies on Different Influential Factors
Authors: Rahimzadeh Amin , Ghadimi Parviz , Feizi Chekab Mohammad A. , Jabbari Mohammad H.
Published: April 2014

The objective of this study is to numerically investigate transmission coefficient of submerged trapezoidal breakwater of various configurations subjected to solitary waves. Boussinesq equations of Madsen and Sorensen are applied as governing equations for simulation purposes. Discretization of governing equations is accomplished using Galerkin finite element method and Adams-Bashforth-Moulton predictor-corrector method is considered for time integration. In order to obtain transmission coefficients, two gauges are considered before and after the submerged breakwater to record initial and transmitted wave heights, respectively. To examine the effect of configuration of breakwaters on their transmission coefficients, submergence ratio and crest width ratio are defined and analyzed. Different submergence ratios and various crest width ratios are considered. Computed results indicate how transmission coefficient decreases with the increase over different ranges of crest width ratio, for all values of submergence ratio. Furthermore, keeping crest width and submergence ratios constant, solitary waves with higher initial heights are simulated. Results of simulation indicate that transmission coefficient becomes higher for the same breakwater characteristics. Finally, a parametric study is conducted on the effect of side slopes of breakwaters. It is shown that side slopes have strong effect on wave transmission.
Terahertz Performance of a GaN‐Based Planar Nanochannel Device
Authors: Xu K. Y. , Wang Y. N. , Zheng C. J. , Xiong J. W. , Wang G.
Published: April 2014

Using a combined two‐dimensional‐three‐dimensional (2D‐3D) ensemble Monte Carlo (EMC) model, the performance of a planar nanochannel device is studied at the terahertz (THz) region. The device is based on a GaN/AlGaN heterostructure in which a two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) forms at the interface. Simulation results reveal that, at low working frequencies, the performance of the device is almost frequency independent. However, when the working frequency is higher than 0.5 THz, obvious enhancements in the device performance have been observed. The enhancements are characterized by two resonant peaks at frequencies of about 4 THz and 8 THz. Also, the frequency‐dependent performance exhibits nonmonotonicity. Further studies show that the performance enhancements can be attributed to the excitations of 2D plasma waves in the device, with the emergence of the above resonant peaks corresponding to the formation of standing plasma waves. Moreover, simulation results show that the device performance increases monotonically with signal amplitude, when the device is unbiased. However, when a DC bias is applied, the performance remains almost unchanged for large signals but is significantly enhanced for small signals. Therefore, the device performance shows a strong nonmonotonic dependence on signal amplitude, and its minimal value occurs when the signal amplitude is only about times the DC bias.
Palm Print Edge Extraction Using Fractional Differential Algorithm
Authors: Chi Chunmei , Gao Feng
Published: April 2014

Algorithm based on fractional difference was used for the edge extraction of thenar palm print image. Based on fractional order difference function which was deduced from classical fractional differential G-L definition, three filter templates were constructed to extract thenar palm print edge. The experiment results showed that this algorithm can reduce noise and detect rich edge details and has higher SNR than traditional methods.
Diagnosis of Asthma in Primary Health Care: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ringsberg Karin C. , Bjärneman Paula , Larsson Ronny , Wallström Elisabeth , Löwhagen Olle
Published: April 2014

Some patients with an asthma diagnosis have a poor controlled asthma. One explanation may be an incorrect diagnosis. Aim. The aim of the study was to diagnose and classify patients with non-infectious lower respiratory tract problems in primary health care using internationally applied diagnostic criteria and diagnostic tests. Patients and Methods. New adult patients visiting a primary health care centre due to lower airway problems were included. The diagnostic tests included FEV1, FVC, PEF, two questionnaires, methacholine test, and skin prick test. Results. The patients (n=43) could be divided into four groups: asthma (28%), asthma-like disorder (44%), idiopathic cough (12%), and a nonreversible bronchial obstructive group (16%). The asthma and asthma-like groups showed similar patterns of airway symptoms and trigger factors, not significantly separated by a special questionnaire. Phlegm, heavy breathing, chest pressure/pain, cough, and wheezing were the most common symptoms. Physical exercise and scents were the dominating trigger factors. Conclusions. Nonobstructive asthma-like symptoms seem to be as common as bronchial asthma in primary health care. Due to the similarities in symptoms and trigger factors the study supports the hypothesis that asthma and nonobstructive asthma-like disorders are integrated in the same “asthma syndrome,” including different mechanisms, not only bronchial obstruction.
Use of Adjuvant Sorafenib in Liver Transplant Recipients with High-Risk Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Shetty Kirti , Dash Chiranjeev , Laurin Jacqueline
Published: April 2014

The efficacy of liver transplantation (LT) for hepatocellular (HCC) is limited by tumor recurrence rates of 10–15%. We undertook this pilot study to examine the use of sorafenib as adjuvant therapy in high-risk LT recipients.Methods. We prospectively enrolled patients transplanted for HCC into a treatment protocol utilizing sorafenib if their explant examination showed evidence of viable tumor exceeding Milan criteria. We utilized as historical controls patients transplanted previously, whose explant tumor characteristics exceeded Milan criteria, but who were not “preemptively” treated with sorafenib. Wilcoxon two-sample test and Fisher’s exact test were used to compare survival and recurrence rates between the two groups.Results. Seven patients were treated with sorafenib and compared to 12 historical “controls.” Two of 7 treated patients suffered from HCC recurrence. Of the comparison group, 9 experienced HCC recurrence and all succumbed to disease. Dose reduction improved tolerance of drug. The overall rate of HCC recurrence was decreased in the adjuvant therapy group compared to historical controls (29% versus 75%,P=0.07). Disease free 1-year survival for the treated versus untreated group was 100% versus 66%, respectively.Conclusion. Adjuvant use of sorafenib is safe and decreases risk of HCC recurrence in high-risk LT recipients.
Compressive Sensing Based Bayesian Sparse Channel Estimation for OFDM Communication Systems: High Performance and Low Complexity
Authors: Gui Guan , Xu Li , Shan Lin , Adachi Fumiyuki
Published: April 2014

In orthogonal frequency division modulation (OFDM) communication systems, channel state information (CSI) is required at receiver due to the fact that frequency-selective fading channel leads to disgusting intersymbol interference (ISI) over data transmission. Broadband channel model is often described by very few dominant channel taps and they can be probed by compressive sensing based sparse channel estimation (SCE) methods, for example, orthogonal matching pursuit algorithm, which can take the advantage of sparse structure effectively in the channel as for prior information. However, these developed methods are vulnerable to both noise interference and column coherence of training signal matrix. In other words, the primary objective of these conventional methods is to catch the dominant channel taps without a report of posterior channel uncertainty. To improve the estimation performance, we proposed a compressive sensing based Bayesian sparse channel estimation (BSCE) method which cannot only exploit the channel sparsity but also mitigate the unexpected channel uncertainty without scarifying any computational complexity. The proposed method can reveal potential ambiguity among multiple channel estimators that are ambiguous due to observation noise or correlation interference among columns in the training matrix. Computer simulations show that proposed method can improve the estimation performance when comparing with conventional SCE methods.
Broadcasting Algorithms of Three-Dimensional Petersen-Torus Network
Authors: Kim Jong-Seok , Lee Hyeong-Ok , Kim Mihye , Kim Sung Won
Published: April 2014

The three-dimensional Petersen-torus network 3PT is based on the Petersen graph and has recently been proposed as an interconnection network. 3PT is better than the well-known 3D torus and 3D honeycomb mesh in terms of diameter and network cost. In this paper, we propose one-to-all and all-to-all broadcasting algorithms for 3PT(l;m;n) under SLA (single-link available) and MLA (multiple-link available) models.
Tool Wear and Formation Mechanism of White Layer When Hard Milling H13 Steel under Different Cooling/Lubrication Conditions
Authors: Zhang Song , Li Jianfeng , Lv Honggang
Published: April 2014

The present work aims at revealing the formation mechanism of white layer and understanding the effects of tool wear and cooling/lubrication condition on white layer when hard milling H13 steel with coated cutting tools. Hard milling experiments were carried out, and tool wear and its effect on formation of white layer were investigated. Compared to dry cutting condition, CMQL (cryogenic minimum quantity lubrication) technique can obviously reduce tool wear and prolong tool life owing to its good cooling and lubrication properties. The optical images of the subsurface materials indicate that the formation of white layer is related to tool wear; moreover, the thickness of white layer increases with the increase of tool wear. SEM (scanning electron microscope) images and XRD (X-ray diffraction) analysis confirm that the formation of white layer is mainly due to the mechanical effect rather than the thermal effect. It also proves that white layer is partly decreased or can be totally eliminated by optimizing process parameters under CMQL cutting condition. CMQL technique has the potential to be used for achieving prolonged tool life and enhanced surface integrity.
Usability Analysis of Collision Avoidance System in Vehicle-to-Vehicle Communication Environment
Authors: Cho Hong , Kim Gyoung-Eun , Kim Byeong-Woo
Published: April 2014

Conventional intelligent vehicles have performance limitations owing to the short road and obstacle detection range of the installed sensors. In this study, to overcome this limitation, we tested the usability of a new conceptual autonomous emergency braking (AEB) system that employs vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication technology in the existing AEB system. To this end, a radar sensor and a driving and communication environment constituting the AEB system were simulated; the simulation was then linked by applying vehicle dynamics and control logic. The simulation results show that the collision avoidance relaxation rate of V2V communication-based AEB system was reduced compared with that of existing vehicle-mounted-sensor-based system. Thus, a method that can lower the collision risk of the existing AEB system, which uses only a sensor cluster installed on the vehicle, is realized.
Distinct Functions of Specialized Dendritic Cell Subsets in Atherosclerosis and the Road Ahead
Authors: Zernecke Alma
Published: April 2014

Atherosclerotic vascular disease is modulated by immune mechanisms. Dendritic cells (DCs) and T cells are present within atherosclerotic lesions and function as central players in the initiation and modulation of adaptive immune responses. In previous years, we have studied the functional contribution of distinct DC subsets in disease development, namely, that of CCL17-expressing DCs as well as that of plasmacytoid DCs that play specialized roles in disease development. This review focuses on important findings gathered in these studies and dissects the multifaceted contribution of CCL17-expressing DCs and pDCs to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, an outlook on future challenges faced when studying DCs in this detrimental disease are provided, and hurdles that will need to be overcome in order to enable a better understanding of the contribution of DCs to atherogenesis are discussed, a prerequisite for their therapeutic targeting in atherosclerosis.
Synchronized Dual Pulse Gastric Electrical Stimulation Induces Activation of Enteric Glial Cells in Rats with Diabetic Gastroparesis
Authors: Yang Wei , Wang Nian , Shi Xue , Chen Jie
Published: April 2014

Objective.The aims of this study were to investigate the effects of synchronized dual pulse gastric electrical stimulation (SGES) on gastric motility in different periods for diabetic rats and try to explore the possible mechanisms of the effects.Methods.Forty-six rats were used in the study. Gastric slow waves were recorded at baseline, 7–14-day diabetes and 56–63-day diabetes before and after stimulation and the age-matched control groups. SGES-60 mins and SGES-7 days (60 mins/day) were performed to test the effects on gastric motility and to evaluate glial marker S100B expression in stomach.Results.(1) Gastric emptying was accelerated in 7–14-day diabetes and delayed in 56–63-day diabetes. (2) The S100B expression in 56–63-day diabetes decreased and the ultrastructure changed. (3) The age-associated loss of EGC was observed in 56–63-day control group. (4) SGES was able to not only accelerate gastric emptying but also normalize gastric slow waves. (5) The S100B expression increased after SGES and the ultrastructure of EGC was partially restored. The effect of SGES-7 days was superior to SGES-60 mins.Conclusions.Delayed gastric emptying due to the growth of age may be related to the EGC inactivation. The effects of the SGES on gastric motility may be associated with EGC activation.
Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate Decline as a Predictor of Dialysis in Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: McCaughan Jennifer A. , Courtney Aisling E. , Maxwell Alexander P.
Published: April 2014

Background: It is now common for individuals to require dialysis following the failure of a kidney transplant. Management of complications and preparation for dialysis are suboptimal in this group. To aid planning, it is desirable to estimate the time to dialysis requirement. The rate of decline in the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) may be used to this end. Methods: This study compared the rate of eGFR decline prior to dialysis commencement between individuals with failing transplants and transplant-naïve patients. The rate of eGFR decline was also compared between transplant recipients with and without graft failure. eGFR was calculated using the four-variable MDRD equation with rate of decline calculated by least squares linear regression. Results: The annual rate of eGFR decline in incident dialysis patients with graft failure exceeded that of the transplant-naïve incident dialysis patients. In the transplant cohort, the mean annual rate of eGFR decline prior to graft failure was 7.3 ml/min/1.73 m2 compared to 4.8 ml/min/1.73 m2 in the transplant-naïve group (p < 0.001) and 0.35 ml/min/1.73 m2 in recipients without graft failure (p < 0.001). Factors associated with eGFR decline were recipient age, decade of transplantation, HLA mismatch and histological evidence of chronic immunological injury. Conclusions: Individuals with graft failure have a rapid decline in eGFR prior to dialysis commencement. To improve outcomes, dialysis planning and management of chronic kidney disease complications should be initiated earlier than in the transplant-naïve population.
An Interstitial 4q31.21q31.22 Microdeletion Associated with Developmental Delay: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Vlaikou Angeliki-Maria , Manolakos Emmanouil , Noutsopoulos Dimitrios , Markopoulos Georgios , Liehr Thomas , Vetro Annalisa , Ziegler Monika , Weise Anja , Kreskowski Katharina , Papoulidis Ioannis , Thomaidis Loretta , Syrrou Maria
Published: April 2014

The 4q deletion syndrome phenotype consists of growth failure and developmental delay, minor craniofacial dysmorphism, digital anomalies, and cardiac and skeletal defects. We have identified an inversion (inv(1)(q25.2q31.1)) and an interstitial deletion in a boy with developmental delay using array-comparative genomic hybridization. This de novo deletion is located at 4q31.21q31.22 (145,963,820- 147,044,764), its size is 0.9-1.1 Mb, and it contains 7 genes (ABCE1, OTUD4, SMAD1, MMAA, C4orf51, ZNF827, and ANAPC10) as well as 5 retrotransposon-derived pseudogenes. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that while small copy number variations seem to have no impact on the phenotype, larger deletions or duplications in the deleted region are associated with developmental delay. Additionally, we found a higher coverage in transposable element sequences in the 4q31.21q31.22 region compared to that of the expected repeat density when regarding any random genome region. Transposable elements might have contributed to the reshaping of the genome architecture and, most importantly, we identified 3 L1PA family members in the breakpoint regions, suggesting their possible contribution in the mechanism underlying the appearance of this deletion. In conclusion, this is one of the smallest deletions reported associated with developmental delay, and we discuss the possible role of genomic features having an impact on the phenotype.
Delayed Macular Hole Closure
Authors: Distelmaier Peter , Meyer Linda M. , Fischer Marie T. , Philipp Sebastian , Paquet Patrick , Mammen Antje , Haller Katharina , Schönfeld Carl-Ludwig
Published: April 2014

Purpose: The presented case raises questions regarding the favorable scheduling of planned postoperative care and the ideal observation interval to decide for reoperations in macular hole surgery. Furthermore a discussion about the use of short- and long-acting gas tamponades in macular hole surgery is encouraged. Methods: We present an interventional case report and a short review of the pertinent literature. Results: We report a case of spontaneous delayed macular hole closure after vitreoretinal surgery had been performed initially without the expected success. A 73-year-old male Caucasian patient presented at our clinic with a stage 2 macular hole in his left eye. He underwent 23-gauge pars plana vitrectomy and internal limiting membrane peeling with a 20% C2F6-gas tamponade. Sixteen days after the procedure, an OCT scan revealed a persistent stage 2 macular hole, and the patient was scheduled for reoperation. Surprisingly, at the date of planned surgery, which was another 11 days later, the macular hole had resolved spontaneously without any further intervention. Conclusions: So far no common opinion exists regarding the use of short- or long-acting gas in macular hole surgery. Our case of delayed macular hole closure after complete resorption of the gas tamponade raises questions about the need and duration of strict prone positioning after surgery. Furthermore short-acting gas might be as efficient as long-acting gas. We suggest to wait with a second intervention at least 4 weeks after the initial surgery, since a delayed macular hole closure is possible.
Transferring from clopidogrel loading dose to prasugrel loading dose in acute coronary syndrome patients
Authors: Saucedo Jorge F. , Cardillo Tracy E. , Jakubowski Joseph A. , Henneges Carsten , Effron Mark B. , Lipkin Fred R. , Walker Joseph R. , Duvvuru Suman , Sundseth Scott S. , Fisher Harold N. , Angiolillo Dominick J. , Diodati Jean G.
Published: April 2014

High on-treatment platelet reactivity (HPR) has been identified as an independent risk factor for ischaemic events. The randomised, doubleblind, TRIPLET trial included a pre-defined comparison of HPR in acute coronary syndrome (ACS) patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) following a placebo/600-mg clopidogrel loading dose (LD) immediately before a subsequent prasugrel 60-mg or 30-mg LD. Platelet reactivity was assessed using the VerifyNow® P2Y12 assay (P2Y12 Reaction Units, PRU) within 24 hours (h) following the placebo/clopidogrel LD (immediately prior to prasugrel LD), and at 2, 6, 24, 72 h following prasugrel LDs. The impact of CYP2C19 predicted metaboliser phenotype (extensive metaboliser [EM] and reduced metabolisers [RM]) on HPR status was also assessed. HPR (PRU ≥240) following the clopidogrel LD (prior to the prasugrel LD) was 58.5% in the combined clopidogrel LD groups. No significant difference was noted when stratified by time between the clopidogrel and prasugrel LDs (≤6 hs vs >6 h). At 6 h following the 2nd loading dose in the combined prasugrel LD groups, HPR was 7.1%, with 0% HPR by 72 h. There was no significant effect of CYP2C19 genotype on pharmacodynamic (PD) response following either prasugrel LD treatments at any time point, regardless of whether it was preceded by a clopidogrel 600-mg LD. In conclusion, in this study, patients with ACS intended for PCI showed a high prevalence of HPR after clopidogrel 600-mg LD regardless of metaboliser status. When prasugrel LD was added, HPR decreased substantially by 6 h, and was not seen by 72 h.
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells for Post–Myocardial Infarction Repair
Authors: Lalit Pratik A. , Hei Derek J. , Raval Amish N. , Kamp Timothy J.
Published: April 2014

Coronary artery disease with associated myocardial infarction continues to be a major cause of death and morbidity around the world, despite significant advances in therapy. Patients who have large myocardial infarctions are at highest risk for progressive heart failure and death, and cell-based therapies offer new hope for these patients. A recently discovered cell source for cardiac repair has emerged as a result of a breakthrough reprogramming somatic cells to induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The iPSCs can proliferate indefinitely in culture and can differentiate into cardiac lineages, including cardiomyocytes, smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, and cardiac progenitors. Thus, large quantities of desired cell products can be generated without being limited by cellular senescence. The iPSCs can be obtained from patients to allow autologous therapy or, alternatively, banks of human leukocyte antigen diverse iPSCs are possible for allogeneic therapy. Preclinical animal studies using a variety of cell preparations generated from iPSCs have shown evidence of cardiac repair. Methodology for the production of clinical grade products from human iPSCs is in place. Ongoing studies for the safety of various iPSC preparations with regard to the risk of tumor formation, immune rejection, induction of arrhythmias, and formation of stable cardiac grafts are needed as the field advances toward the first-in-man trials of iPSCs after myocardial infarction.
Role of RyR2 Phosphorylation in Heart Failure and Arrhythmias
Authors: Dobrev Dobromir , Wehrens Xander H.T.
Published: April 2014

Cardiac ryanodine receptor type 2 plays a key role in excitation–contraction coupling. The ryanodine receptor type 2 channel protein is modulated by various post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation by protein kinase A and Ca
2+
/calmodulin protein kinase II. Despite extensive research in this area, the functional effects of ryanodine receptor type 2 phosphorylation remain disputed. In particular, the potential involvement of increased ryanodine receptor type 2 phosphorylation in the pathogenesis of heart failure and arrhythmias remains a controversial area, which is discussed in this review article.
Role of RyR2 Phosphorylation in Heart Failure and Arrhythmias
Authors: Houser Steven R.
Published: April 2014

This Controversies in Research article discusses the hypothesis that protein kinase A (PKA)-mediated phosphorylation of the Ryanodine Receptor (RyR) at a single serine (RyRS2808) is essential for normal sympathetic regulation of cardiac myocyte contractility and is responsible for the disturbed Ca
2+
regulation that underlies depressed contractility in heart failure. Studies supporting this hypothesis have associated hyperphosphorylation of RyRS2808 and heart failure progression in animals and humans and have shown that a phosphorylation defective RyR mutant mouse (RyRS2808A) does not respond normally to sympathetic agonists and does not exhibit heart failure symptoms after myocardial infarction. Studies to confirm and extend these ideas have failed to support the original data. Experiments from many different laboratories have convincingly shown that PKA-mediated RyRS2808 phosphorylation does not play any significant role in the normal sympathetic regulation of sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ release or cardiac contractility. Hearts and myocytes from RyRS2808A mice have been shown to respond normally to sympathetic agonists, and to increase Ca
2+
influx, Ca
2+
transients, and Ca
2+
efflux. Although the RyR is involved in heart failure–related Ca
2+
disturbances, this results from Ca
2+
-calmodulin kinase II and reactive oxygen species–mediated regulation rather than by RyR2808 phosphorylation. Also, a new study has shown that RyRS2808A mice are not protected from myocardial infarction. Collectively, there is now a clear consensus in the published literature showing that dysregulated RyRs contribute to the altered Ca
2+
regulatory phenotype of the failing heart, but PKA-mediated phosphorylation of RyRS2808 has little or no role in these alterations.
New Perspectives on Factor Markets and Ancient Middle Eastern Economies: A Survey
Authors: van Bavel Bas
Published: April 2014

Abstract

The conventional view of markets for land, labour, and capital as a modern, Western phenomenon is questionable. Factor markets did indeed exist in Iraq, and even thrived, in various parts of its pre-modern history, including the period around 2000bce, the “long” sixth century (c. 620-480bce), and the eighth and ninth centuriesce. By employing the long-term approach used in this issue ofjeshoand by placing the organization of these markets in their wider social-political context, we can understand better how these markets developed, how they functioned, and why they rose and declined again.
Factor Markets in Hellenistic and Parthian Babylonia (331 BCE-224 CE)
Authors: van der Spek Robartus J.
Published: April 2014

Abstract

Because the evidence is meagre, this article takes a qualitative rather than a quantitative approach to the markets of land, labour, and capital in Hellenistic and Parthian Babylonia. The evidence consists of administrative documents from Babylon and Uruk (Babylonian clay tablets in cuneiform script), from Dura Europos on parchment or papyrus (in Greek and Aramaic), and from Avroman in (Greek and Pahlavi). These texts suggest that the land market was restricted by the legal rights of king and temple. There is little information on wage labour. Slave labour existed, but neither its role in the economy nor the importance of the slave trade has been adequately assessed. The use of credit, interest, cheques, and other financial instruments is attested, but its significance is small, not least because of the prevalence of iconic interest rates of 20%, set by tradition rather than by market forces. As far as the evidence goes, the markets for land, labour, and capital were restricted by tradition and by the claims of king and temples on land, while the commodity markets were much more market-oriented.
Factor Markets in Early Islamic Iraq, c. 600-1100 AD
Authors: van Bavel Bas , Campopiano Michele , Dijkman Jessica
Published: April 2014

Abstract

This paper reconstructs the organization and development of factor markets in early medieval Iraq. It shows that from the late Sasanian period on, and accelerating in the early Islamic period, there was a relatively unrestricted functioning of markets for goods, labour, and capital. This stimulated market exchange, associated with growing monetization of the economy, especially in the towns, but also in the countryside, even though coercion remained more pronounced there. We hypothesize that these developments brought economic dynamism but simultaneously increased inequality and furthered the rise of new, powerful elite groups, causing the decline of the same markets.
Portrait d’un « romaniste » hors du commun : Jean Acher (1880–1915)
Authors: Lefebvre-Teillard Anne
Published: April 2014

Portrait of a not so common ‘Romanist’: Jean Acher (1880–1915) – Jean Acher, known to only a few specialists in Medieval Roman law, was an unusual scholar of Roman law. He was born in Lodz (Poland) in 1880. He studied first at St Petersburg, then in Berlin, where he attended B. Kübler’s teaching, and continued his studies at Montpellier, where he was awarded a law degree. He obtained a licence in law in 1904. At the same time, Acher also studied Romanic languages and literature. Legal and Romanic studies were the subjects of the many articles and reviews he then started publishing in several distinguished journals. In 1906, he settled in Paris. Acher became involved in the (at the time, highly controversial) issues around the methods of legal teaching, appearing as a harsh critic of the then prevailing approach to Roman law teaching. A great admirer of H.H. Fitting, he criticised specifically the exclusive focus on classical Roman law. In turn, Acher was the target of criticism by V. Arangio Ruiz and Ch.L. Appleton, which led to a confrontation with legal scholars. J. Bédier, professor at the Collège de France, supported him and, as a result, Acher devoted his work almost exclusively to the study of Romanic philology and literature. He obtained French citizenship in September 1914 and died the following year as a soldier on the frontline.
Byzantine and the Medieval West Roman tradition
Authors: de Jong Hylkje
Published: April 2014

The term consumpta pecunia, money used, in D. 12,1 is interpreted differently in the legal tradition of East and West, when it came to explain why a condictio was granted to recover money, lent by an unauthorised person. In Byzantine law, the sixth-century antecessor Stephanus interprets this condictio as an enrichment action, namely ὁ ἀπὸ καλοῦ δαπανήματος κονδικτίκιος (condictio de bene depensis). For Stephanus money, once used, causes ownership to pass by commixture. He considers the condictio in the Digest as a unitary doctrine and views the titles D. 12,2 and D. 12,3, which deal with other matters, as a parenthesis. In the Glossa Ordinaria, this condictio has been interpreted as a contractual condictio, namely as a condictio ex numeratione or condictio ex consumptione. In the Glossa ordinaria consumpta pecunia causes ownership to pass by the validation of the contract. D. 12,1 is considered to be an independent title. The condictio in D. 12,1 is a contractual condictio; the condictiones discussed in the other titles are different, they arise ex bono et aequo.
Populism in Bulgaria
Authors: Cholova Blagovesta , De Waele Jean-Michel
Published: April 2014

This article explores the success of populist parties in Bulgaria during the last decade. The first section focuses on the definition of populism and identifies the main populist parties in this country. The second part presents the development of these parties and their specific characteristic as well as the evolution of the “three waves” of populism in Bulgaria. The last section addresses the reasons for the success of these parties both in terms of supply side (the electorate) and the demand side (the strategy of the parties). The main conclusion is that this country is a fertile ground for populist movements due to the attitude of the electorate and the niche on the right-side of the political spectrum and that newly created parties use this opportunity of win elections but they remain short-lived because they cannot continue to mobilize populist rhetoric when they are in office and often face rapid decline.
The Europeanization of National Constitutions in South East Europe
Authors: Keil Soeren , Nikolić Dragana
Published: April 2014

The Europeanization of the Western Balkans requires changes of national constitutions to adjust the countries’ supreme laws in accordance with “European Standards.” This article examines the causes, dynamics, and models of these changes in Croatia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina based on the experiences of other EU Member States. This comparative analysis reveals not only similarities and differences in democratic transition between former and future Member States, but it also sheds light on the constitutional dimension of the EU Member State Building process. While the EU does not condition membership upon constitutional changes that go beyond the Copenhagen Criteria, it can be witnessed that the implementation of the Acquis Communautaire will lead to far-reaching changes in the political, social and economic systems of future Member States. Consequently, the European Union becomes an active counselor and participant in the process of constitutional evolution in the region.
Globalization-Driven Innovation: The Investor as a Partial Subject in Public International Law
Authors: Braun Tillmann Rudolf
Published: April 2014

Given the current state of development of international investment law, it is surprising that, to date, neither the actual nature of the investor’s rights resulting from investment treaties, nor the possible consequences which arise for the investor, the states and international law, have been sufficiently defined. This is all the more astounding as the intrinsic nature and the possible limits of the investor’s rights are not only of theoretical interest, they are also decisive for the resolution of many substantial practical problems as well as for the positioning of international investment law within public international law. Furthermore, recent arbitration rulings concerning the fundamental question of whether the investor’s rights are of a direct, a derivative or a contingent nature, Archer Daniels (2007), Corn Products (2008) and Cargill (2009), demonstrate diametrically differing approaches. In this article, the author shows that neither the procedural nor material rights of the investor are simply derived from the home state but are – in clear contrast to the model of diplomatic protection – in fact to be understood as individual direct rights. The investor is elevated to the status of a (partial) subject in international law. Of course, the states are, and remain, the ‘masters of the treaties’ and can correct or even revoke them at any time with prospective effect. However, as long as investment treaties confer distinct rights on the investor, arbitral tribunals and states have to recognize these direct rights and the states must also accept that they can also be applied against them. The direct rights paradigm has varied and remarkable consequences for the investor, the states and modern public international law.
A Squall-Line-Like Principal Rainband in Typhoon Hagupit (2008) Observed by Airborne Doppler Radar
Authors: Tang Xiaowen , Lee Wen-Chau , Bell Michael
Published: April 2014

This study examines the structure and dynamics of Typhoon Hagupit’s (2008) principal rainband using airborne radar and dropsonde observations. The convection in Hagupit’s principal rainband was organized into a well-defined line with trailing stratiform precipitation on the inner side. Individual convective cells had intense updrafts and downdrafts and were aligned in a wavelike pattern along the line. The line-averaged vertical cross section possessed a slightly inward-tilting convective core and two branches of low-level inflow feeding the convection. The result of a thermodynamic retrieval showed a pronounced cold pool behind the convective line. The horizontal and vertical structures of this principal rainband show characteristics that are different than the existing conceptual model and are more similar to squall lines and outer rainbands.

The unique convective structure of Hagupit’s principal rainband was associated with veering low-level vertical wind shear and large convective instability in the environment. A quantitative assessment of the cold pool strength showed that it was quasi balanced with that of the low-level vertical wind shear. The balanced state and the structural characteristics of convection in Hagupit’s principal rainband were dynamically consistent with the theory of cold pool dynamics widely applied to strong and long-lived squall lines. The analyses suggest that cold pool dynamics played a role in determining the principal rainband structure in addition to storm-scale vortex dynamics.
Evaluating Skill of Seasonal Precipitation and Temperature Predictions of NCEP CFSv2 Forecasts over 17 Hydroclimatic Regions in China
Authors: Lang Yang , Ye Aizhong , Gong Wei , Miao Chiyuan , Di Zhenhua , Xu Jing , Liu Yu , Luo Lifeng , Duan Qingyun
Published: April 2014

Seasonal predictions of precipitation and surface air temperature from the Climate Forecast System, version 2 (CFSv2), are evaluated against gridded daily observations from 1982 to 2007 over 17 hydroclimatic regions in China. The seasonal predictive skill is quantified with skill scores including correlation coefficient, RMSE, and mean bias for spatially averaged seasonal precipitation and temperature forecasts for each region. The evaluation focuses on identifying regions and seasons where significant skill exists, thus potentially contributing to skill in hydrological prediction. The authors find that the predictive skill of CFSv2 precipitation and temperature forecasts has a stronger dependence on seasons and regions than on lead times. Both temperature and precipitation forecasts show higher skill from late summer [July–September (JAS)] to late autumn [October–December (OND)] and from winter [December–February (DJF)] to spring [March–May (MAM)]. The skill of CFSv2 precipitation forecasts is low during summer [June–August (JJA)] and winter (DJF) over all of China because of low potential predictability of the East Asian summer monsoon and the East Asian winter monsoon for China. As expected, temperature predictive skill is much higher than precipitation predictive skill in all regions. As observed precipitation shows significant correlation with the Oceanic Niño index over western, southwestern, and central China, the authors found that CFSv2 precipitation forecasts generally show similar correlation pattern, suggesting that CFSv2 precipitation forecasts can capture ENSO signals. This evaluation suggests that using CFSv2 forecasts for seasonal hydrological prediction over China is promising and challenging.
Correcting laboratory results for the effects of interferences: an approach incorporating uncertainty of measurement
Authors: Jones Graham RD , Hawkins Robert C
Published: April 2014

Background

Results of numerical pathology tests may be subject to interference and many laboratories identify such interferences and withhold results or issue warnings if clinically erroneous results may be issued. Some laboratories choose to correct for the effect of interferences, with the uncertainty of the correction noted as a limitation in this process. We investigate the effect of correcting for the effect of interferences on the ability to release results within defined error goals using the effect of in-vitro haemolysis on serum potassium measurement as an example.

Methods

A model was developed to determine the uncertainty of a result corrected for the effect of an interferent with a linear relationship between concentration and effect. The model was used to assess the effect of correction on the results which could be released within specified accuracy criteria.

Results

Using the effects of haemolysis on potassium results as an example, the maximum amount of haemolysis in a sample that would change the result by > 0.5 mmol/L, with a frequency of 5%, was increased from approximately 1100 mg/L (no correction) to 8000 mg/L (with correction).

Conclusions

With modelling of the factors related to the uncertainties of results in the presence of interferences, it is possible to release results in the presence of significantly higher concentrations of interferences after correction than without correction. Correction of a result for a known bias and allowance for the uncertainty of the correction can be considered consistent with the guide to the expression of uncertainty in measurement (GUM).
Effect of the formulation of starch-based foam cushions on the morphology and mechanical properties
Authors: Abinader Georges , Lacoste Catherine , Baillif Marie Le , Erre Damien , Copinet Alain
Published: April 2014

Cushion foam sheets, made from different blends of wheat starch, were developed with a co-rotating twin-screw extruder machine and compared to commercial plastic foam cushions. An experimental study was developed to identify the effect of three ingredients: glycerol, gluten, and sodium bicarbonate on the bulk expansion, the cellular structure and the mechanical properties of the resulted foams. The experiments showed that the properties of the resulted foams were affected by the formulation. Foams with high level of glycerol and gluten content had lower densities and higher expansion ratio, cell size area, and cell wall thickness than blends with high level of sodium bicarbonate, which had better mechanical strength but less elasticity and shock absorption. The extruded materials had shown their suitability for cushioning use by having comparable physical properties with the commercial plastic foams. The dynamic cushion curve test indicated that the starch-based foam sheets provided good shock absorption properties. They had lower and larger deceleration peak than the expandable polyethylene foams we tested.
How is dilated cardiomyopathy investigated in Scotland? A contemporary survey
Authors: Weir Robin AP , Simpson Joanne , Petrie Colin J
Published: April 2014

Background and aims

Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a common cause of heart failure. The underlying aetiology remains poorly characterised, with ca. 50% labelled ‘idiopathic’. We assessed the extent to which the aetiology of DCM is investigated in Scotland, in comparison to European Society of Cardiology (ESC) recommendations.

Methods and results

Questionnaires regarding the use of coronary angiography, use and availability of cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and blood/urine panels to investigate the causes of DCM were sent to the heart failure lead in each of the 23 hospitals across Scotland with an established cardiology department; responses were obtained from 21/23 (91.3%). ESC guidelines regarding coronary angiography were adopted in only 8/21 (38.1%). Only 7/21 (33.3%) had easy access to CMR although 14/21 (66.7%) felt it would be a useful test in DCM. The ESC-recommended blood profile was checked routinely in 7/21 (33.3%). Additional blood tests, many of which not currently recommended, were performed in selected centres.

Conclusions

DCM patients in Scotland are in general unlikely to undergo current ESC-recommended investigation into the underlying aetiology. There is a need for prospective studies to determine the success rate and influence on management and outcome of such multifaceted approaches to investigating the cause of DCM.
A multi-agent-based simulator for a transmission control protocol/internet protocol network
Authors: Ahmed Lubaid , Abhari Abdolreza
Published: April 2014

The main goal of this paper is building a novel transmission control protocol/internet protocol (TCP/IP) network simulator engine for simulation of distributed applications for which capturing both higher and lower layer network parameters are important. There are not many comprehensive simulators available in industry and academia to simulate distributed applications while reporting the parameters of all the layers of the TCP/IP network active in such simulations. The major problem in building a comprehensive simulation scenario for applications residing on the higher layers of a network by using currently available simulators is that a core simulator for lower layers of the network should be used together with add-ons or other programs simulating higher network layers to be able to simulate the whole TCP/IP network. This paper presents a novel idea for network simulation that has not been implemented before, which is using agents to simulate all layers of the network. In this simulator, each TCP/IP layer is simulated separately by using a separate agent and its behavior. It is an integrated environment based on agent systems capable of simulating all layers of a TCP/IP network, including application and lower layers. The final goal is other agent systems simulating a complex higher level web-based distributed application being easily used together with these agents, which are simulating the core TCP/IP network. For evaluation and testing purposes, a simple distributed application consisting of several remote procedure calls is simulated. For the validation of the conducted simulations, the achieved results are compared with the results of two non-agent-based simulators. For the verification of each individual agent function, a report is generated that shows the information flow between agents. The communication routes between agents are checked manually to make sure the route selection is based on the expected behavior of each agent. The scalability of the proposed multi-agent-based simulator is tested for the given distributed application.
Processing, Evaluation, Knowledge
Authors: Squires Lauren
Published: April 2014

This article explores US English speakers’ perception of subject–verb agreement variation by using self-paced reading and mouse tracking. Two experiments exposed participants to standard, nonstandard, and uncommon subject–verb combinations. Experiment 1 measures participants’ reading times, and experiment 2 measures their social judgments. The standard forms are [singular+ doesn’t] and [plural+ don’t]. The nonstandard form is [singular+ don’t], which is attested widely across English varieties; the “uncommon” form was [plural+ doesn’t]. Experiment 1 was a self-paced reading experiment, wherein participants read sentences word by word at their own pace. Reading times were slowed the most for uncommon agreement, and nonstandard agreement was also processed more slowly than standard agreement, showing that processing is sensitive to sociolinguistic variation. Experiment 2 was a mouse-tracking experiment, wherein participants read sentences and then chose between two photographs to indicate whether a high- or low-status speaker was more likely to say the sentence. Sentences with the nonstandard and uncommon patterns were more likely to be assigned to low-status speakers than were standard sentences. However, participants’ mouse movements showed that the decision-making processes for uncommon sentences were more like those of standard sentences. Implications for the understanding of sociolinguistic knowledge are discussed.