bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wonderful and Dangerous Entanglements Between Youth Culture, Contemporary Art and Present Pedagogics
Authors: Boysen Mikkel Snorre Wilms , Sørensen Pernille Welent , Hauer Hanne , Frost Vibeke
Published: October 2024

The article aims to describe and discuss how a particular affinity can be identified between contemporary art, trends in children’s and young people’s culture, and present pedagogical approaches found in afterschool clubs, gymnasium and Social Education in a Danish context. Methodologically, inspiration is drawn from self-study research, involving several analytical sessions in which the authors of this article engaged in collaborative analysis of empirical cases chosen from their own practice. The selected cases are discussed through three thematic lenses: creativity, reflection, and time. Theoretically, the article refers to distributed aspects of creativity, the role of craftsmanship, and the apparent acceleration of society. The article concludes that pedagogical methods derived from contemporary art meet young people’s need for participation, inclusion, and influence but also contend with conditions in present society, such as limited time for immersion, a general acceleration of society, academization of our educational institutions, and a general downgrading of manual techniques.
The main stages of artistic cultural exchange between Beijing and Moscow from the 1950s to the present
Authors: Li Pingan
Published: October 2024

The subject of the study is the totality of the main stages of artistic cultural exchange between Beijing and Moscow from the 1950s to the present. The object of the study is the historical process of artistic and cultural exchange between Beijing and Moscow from the 1950s to the present. The article examines the period of educational activity of the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing, where special attention is paid to the contribution of Konstantin Methodievich Maksimov to the development of art in China in the 1950s. Topical issues of cultural policy and mutual understanding in the field of art between the two countries are discussed, as well as the impact of these events on strengthening relations. The author focuses on the importance of the "Festivals of Art and Culture" held in Moscow and Beijing after the reform and opening of China, which became an important catalyst for dialogue between artists and cultural institutions. The research methodology is presented by publications of Russian and Chinese scientists, which were analyzed for theoretical material relevant to the topic of this article. The article opens up new perspectives for further study of the periodization of artistic cultural exchange between Beijing and Moscow. The author believes that China's initiatives on reform and openness policy have proved to be a driving force for deepening cultural interaction, which has reached new heights. As part of this process, many events and festivals have been organized aimed at cultural rapprochement between the two States. The consequence of these events was the fact that the 2024-2025s. They have been declared the Years of Culture of Russia and China, which, undoubtedly, must be taken into account in order to further continue the description of the periods of artistic exchange.
A general approach to modal topological structures illustrated by intuitionistic fuzzy objects
Authors:   Institute of Biophysics and Biomedical Engineerings, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Atanassov Krassimir
Published: October 2024

A new, general approach to introducing of the concept of a Modal Topological Structure (MTS) is given. The basic properties of the MTS are studied. The MTSs are illustrated by intuitionistic fuzzy objects - intuitionistic fuzzy sets, operations, relations and operators. So, 38 different intuitionistic fuzzy MTSs are described.
PUFA stabilizes a conductive state of the selectivity filter in IKs channels
Authors: Golluscio Alessia , Eldstrom Jodene , Jowais Jessica J , Perez Marta Elena , Cunningham Kevin Peter , De La Cruz Alicia , Wu Xiaoan , Corradi Valentina , Tieleman D Peter , Fedida David , Larsson H Peter
Published: October 2024

In cardiomyocytes, the KCNQ1/KCNE1 channel complex mediates the slow delayed-rectifier current (IKs), pivotal during the repolarization phase of the ventricular action potential. Mutations in IKs cause long QT syndrome (LQTS), a syndrome with a prolonged QT interval on the ECG, which increases the risk of ventricular arrhythmia and sudden cardiac death. One potential therapeutical intervention for LQTS is based on targeting IKs channels to restore channel function and/or the physiological QT interval. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are potent activators of KCNQ1 channels and activate IKs channels by binding to two different sites, one in the voltage sensor domain – which shifts the voltage dependence to more negative voltages – and the other in the pore domain – which increases the maximal conductance of the channels (Gmax). However, the mechanism by which PUFAs increase the Gmax of the IKs channels is still poorly understood. In addition, it is unclear why IKs channels have a very small single-channel conductance and a low open probability or whether PUFAs affect any of these properties of IKs channels. Our results suggest that the selectivity filter in KCNQ1 is normally unstable, contributing to the low open probability, and that the PUFA-induced increase in Gmax is caused by a stabilization of the selectivity filter in an open-conductive state.
Metaheuristic optimized complex-valued dilated recurrent neural network for attack detection in internet of vehicular communications
Authors: Balaji Prasanalakshmi , Cengiz Korhan , Babu Sangita , Alqahtani Omar , Akleylek Sedat
Published: October 2024

The Internet of Vehicles (IoV) is a specialized iteration of the Internet of Things (IoT) tailored to facilitate communication and connectivity among vehicles and their environment. It harnesses the power of advanced technologies such as cloud computing, wireless communication, and data analytics to seamlessly exchange real-time data among vehicles, road-side infrastructure, traffic management systems, and other entities. The primary objectives of this real-time data exchange include enhancing road safety, reducing traffic congestion, boosting traffic flow efficiency, and enriching the driving experience. Through the IoV, vehicles can share information about traffic conditions, weather forecasts, road hazards, and other relevant data, fostering smarter, safer, and more efficient transportation networks. Developing, implementing and maintaining sophisticated techniques for detecting attacks present significant challenges and costs, which might limit their deployment, especially in smaller settings or those with constrained resources. To overcome these drawbacks, this article outlines developing an innovative attack detection model for the IoV using advanced deep learning techniques. The model aims to enhance security in vehicular networks by efficiently identifying attacks. Initially, data is collected from online databases and subjected to an optimal feature extraction process. During this phase, the Enhanced Exploitation in Hybrid Leader-based Optimization (EEHLO) method is employed to select the optimal features. These features are utilized by a Complex-Valued Dilated Recurrent Neural Network (CV-DRNN) to detect attacks within vehicle networks accurately. The performance of this novel attack detection model is rigorously evaluated and compared with that of traditional models using a variety of metrics.
A framework for generating recommendations based on trust in an informal e-learning environment
Authors: Rehman Amjad , Ahmed Adeel , Alahmadi Tahani Jaser , Mirdad Abeer Rashad , Al Ghofaily Bayan , Saleem Khalid
Published: October 2024

Rapid advancement in information technology promotes the growth of new online learning communities in an e-learning environment that overloads information and data sharing. When a new learner asks a question, how a system recommends the answer is the problem of the learner’s cold start. In this article, our contributions are: (i) We proposed a Trust-aware Deep Neural Recommendation (TDNR) framework that addresses learner cold-start issues in informal e-learning by modeling complex nonlinear relationships. (ii) We utilized latent Dirichlet allocation for tag modeling, assigning tag categories to newly posted questions and ranking experts related to specific tags for active questioners based on hub and authority scores. (iii) We enhanced recommendation accuracy in the TDNR model by introducing a degree of trust between questioners and responders. (iv) We incorporated the questioner-responder relational graph, derived from structural preference information, into our proposed model. We evaluated the proposed model on the Stack Overflow dataset using mean absolute precision (MAP), root mean squared error (RMSE), and F-measure metrics. Our significant findings are that TDNR is a hybrid approach that provides more accurate recommendations compared to rating-based and social-trust-based approaches, the proposed model can facilitate the formation of informal e-learning communities, and experiments show that TDNR outperforms the competing methods by an improved margin. The model’s robustness, demonstrated by superior MAE, RMSE, and F-measure metrics, makes it a reliable solution for addressing information overload and user sparsity in Stack Overflow. By accurately modeling complex relationships and incorporating trust degrees, TDNR provides more relevant and personalized recommendations, even in cold-start scenarios. This enhances user experience by facilitating the formation of supportive learning communities and ensuring new learners receive accurate recommendations.
Multimodal biometric identification: leveraging convolutional neural network (CNN) architectures and fusion techniques with fingerprint and finger vein data
Authors: Alshardan Amal , Kumar Arun , Alghamdi Mohammed , Maashi Mashael , Alahmari Saad , Alharbi Abeer A. K. , Almukadi Wafa , Alzahrani Yazeed
Published: October 2024

Advancements in multimodal biometrics, which integrate multiple biometric traits, promise to enhance the accuracy and robustness of identification systems. This study focuses on improving multimodal biometric identification by using fingerprint and finger vein images as the primary traits. We utilized the “NUPT-FPV” dataset, which contains a substantial number of finger vein and fingerprint images, which significantly aided our research. Convolutional neural networks (CNNs), renowned for their efficacy in computer vision tasks, are used in our model to extract distinct discriminative features. Specifically, we incorporate three popular CNN architectures: ResNet, VGGNet, and DenseNet. We explore three fusion strategies used in security applications: early fusion, late fusion, and score-level fusion. Early fusion integrates raw images at the input layer of a single CNN, combining information at the initial stages. Late fusion, in contrast, merges features after individual learning from each CNN model. Score-level fusion employs weighted aggregation to combine scores from each modality, leveraging the complementary information they provide. We also use contrast limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE) to enhance fingerprint contrast and vein pattern features, improving feature visibility and extraction. Our evaluation metrics include accuracy, equal error rate (EER), and ROC curves. The fusion of CNN architectures and enhancement methods shows promising performance in identifying multimodal biometrics, aiming to increase identification accuracy. The proposed model offers a reliable authentication system using multiple biometrics to verify identity.
Use of intravenous immunoglobulin in antiphospholipid antibody positive patients with high risk of miscarriage: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yuan Xin , Zhang Wei , Wang Tong , Jiang Peng , Wang Zong-kui , Li Chang-qing
Published: October 2024

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate whether intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) increases live birth rates and improves neonatal results in patients with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) at high-risk for miscarriage.

Background

Positivity of aPL in pregnant women is a high-risk factor for miscarriage, and IVIG treatment has emerged as a potential intervention.

Methods

The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline was employed to search multiple electronic databases for articles published until August 20, 2023, including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus and Medline. The inclusion criteria encompassed studies assessing the efficacy of IVIG in aPL-positive patients with a high risk of miscarriage. Relevant articles were assessed for the quality and data were extracted for analysis. Two independent reviewers performed study selection, data extraction, and quality assessments. The risk of bias was evaluated according to the Cochrane risk of bias tool. All analyses were conducted using Review Manager 5.3.

Results

This systematic review included nine randomized controlled trials, with 366 aPL-positive women at high risk of miscarriage. These studies included in this review were randomized controlled trials. The primary outcome measures were successful pregnancy outcomes and live birth rates. The secondary outcomes included obstetric complications, and neonatal outcomes (such as birth weight and live-birth rate). The comparison between the intervention and control groups revealed no significant differences in terms of obstetric complications and neonatal outcomes. The group receiving IVIG treatment had a higher prevalence of preterm deliveries than controls (OR = 2.05, I2 = 46%, 95% CI [0.58–5.24]), but also exhibited a partial improvement in live birth rates (OR = 2.86, I2 = 52%, 95% CI [1.04–7.90]), because it reduced the number of miscarriages (OR = 0.35, I2 = 52%, 95% CI [0.13–0.96]).

Conclusion

Based on the available evidence, IVIG intervention appears to be a potentially effective approach for managing of aPL-positive pregnant women with high risk of miscarriage. While IVIG shows significant potential in tripling the chances of having a live-born child, further large-scale randomized controlled trials are necessary, preferably comparing IVIG with hydroxychloroquine or lifestyle and dietary interventions, to refine treatment protocols and ensure the most effective application.
Consideraciones sobre la familia en Th. W. Adorno y M. Horkheimer: Autoridad, individuo y totalidad social capitalista
Authors: Gallego Cristina Catalina
Published: October 2024

El artículo expone las consideraciones de Adorno y Horkheimer sobre la familia burguesa y su crisis en el capitalismo avanzado en relación con la existencia de tendencias autoritarias en las sociedades occidentales. La familia burguesa contenía una tensión dialéctica como instancia de mediación entre el individuo y la totalidad social: al mismo tiempo que facilitaba la interiorización de la dominación social, contenía elementos contrarios a la racionalidad instrumental que posibilitan la individualidad. Las condiciones del capitalismo avanzado quiebran las bases de esta tensión, basada en la combinación de la autoridad patriarcal con el amor materno, reforzando el proceso de debilitación del yo y el auge de disposiciones autoritarias. 207-239
Hacia una poética de la animación Colombiana
Authors: Guzmán Ramírez Jesús Alejandro
Published: October 2024

Este artículo revisa textos académicos y producciones relacionadas con la idea de ​​construir el concepto de poética en torno a la animación colombiana, tratando de vincular las dinámicas artísticas, culturales y tecnológicas que han llevado a acciones comerciales y políticas nacionales que buscan consolidar un sector. Para ello, el concepto de "artefactura" se presenta como una nueva propuesta en torno a las interacciones, procesos y agentes dentro de una producción animada, estructurada a partir de los diferentes debates generados sobre la definición de poética, artefacto y particularmente lo que significa "hacer movimiento". En este sentido, la revisión de la literatura abarca los aspectos fundamentales en la reconstrucción histórica de la animación en Colombia, así como las reflexiones y discusiones críticas que se encontraron a nivel nacional, incluyendo influencias y producciones destacadas desarrolladas en Colombia. El objetivo ha sido localizar elementos que den cuenta de las bases que existen en la animación en el contexto particular de Colombia y la evolución que ha tenido hasta ahora.
Marine reptiles in the callovian of European Russia
Authors: Zverkov N. G.
Published: October 2024

The study of the remains of marine reptiles from the Callovian (Middle Jurassic) deposits of European Russia highlights the similarity of the herpetofauna of the Middle Russian Sea with the famous fauna of the Oxford Clay Formation of England. The Middle Russian Sea was inhabited by the pliosaurids Liopleurodon and Simolestes ; the cryptoclidid plesiosaurs Cryptoclidus , Muraenosaurus and Tricleidus , the crocodylomorphs Thalattosuchus and Tyrannoneustes , and the ichthyosaurs Ophthalmosaurus . Finds from Russia indicate the uniformity of the herpetofaunas of Western and Eastern European epicontinental seas in the Callovian Age.
Techno-Economic Analysis of Hybrid Pv-Battery-Diesel Power System for Rural Electrification: A Case Study of Ibudo Ora, Ogbomoso
Authors: Okelola Muniru , Ibe Dennis , Adebiyi Oluwaseyi
Published: October 2024

Fossil-fueled generators and electrical grid extensions are the most popular energy sources for supplying electricity to rural areas.  However, the high cost of running and maintenance, noise pollution, and a need for decarbonization necessitate the hybridization of different energy sources as a viable solution.  Using the conventional technique for the optimal design of a Hybrid Power System (HPS), such as the Hybrid of Multiple Energy Resources (HOMER), is inefficient regarding electricity cost and carbon emission reduction.  Hence, this research conducted a technical and economic analysis of an optimal photovoltaic (PV), battery, and diesel generator-based power system to electrify Ibudo Ora, a rural community in Ogbomoso. A feasibility study on electricity demand was conducted on the Ibudo Ora community by conducting an onsite survey, and the community load profile was estimated.  Mathematical modeling of the HPS component was formulated.  A multi-objective function was developed to minimize the Net Present Cost (NPC), Levelized Cost of Electricity (LCOE), and Total Carbon Emission (TCE) and maximize the System Reliability (SR) of the proposed HPS and optimized using the Energy Valley Optimizer (EVO).  MATLAB R2021a was used to simulate the developed model.  The performance of the developed EVO-based HPS was evaluated using NPC, LCOE, TCE, and SR as metrics and compared with HOMER, which was used for the same purpose. The NPC of the developed EVO-based HPS and HOMER-based HPS were $998702.87 and $1011984.27, respectively, while the LCOE were $0.4889 and $0.4954.  The loss of power supply probabilities of the developed EVO-based and HOMER-based HPS was zero, while in terms of TCE, EVO-based HPS and HOMER-based HPS had 775958.15 kg and 832912.49 kg, respectively. The results showed an appreciable reduction in the NPC, LCOE, and TCE using EVO compared with HOMER for an optimized HPS.  This research will assist the government, investors, and policymakers in making decisions on rural electrification using HPS.
Spatial Variation of Slip Behavior Beneath the Alaska Peninsula Along Alaska‐Aleutian Subduction Zone
Authors: Li Shanshan , Freymueller Jeffrey T.
Published: April 2018

We resurveyed preexisting campaign Global Positioning System (GPS) sites and estimated a highly precise GPS velocity field for the Alaska Peninsula. We use the TDEFNODE software to model the slip deficit distribution using the new GPS velocities. We find systematic misfits to the vertical velocities from the optimal model that fits the horizontal velocities well, which cannot be explained by altering the slip distribution, so we use only the horizontal velocities in the study. Locations of three boundaries that mark significant along‐strike change in the locking distribution are identified. The Kodiak segment is strongly locked, the Semidi segment is intermediate, the Shumagin segment is weakly locked, and the Sanak segment is dominantly creeping. We suggest that a change in preexisting plate fabric orientation on the downgoing plate has an important control on the along‐strike variation in the megathrust locking distribution and subduction seismicity.
Wind, Circulation, and Topographic Effects on Alongshore Phytoplankton Variability in the California Current
Authors: Fiechter Jerome , Edwards Christopher A. , Moore Andrew M.
Published: April 2018

A physical‐biogeochemical model is used to produce a retrospective analysis at 3‐km resolution of alongshore phytoplankton variability in the California Current during 1988–2010. The simulation benefits from downscaling a regional circulation reanalysis, which provides improved physical ocean state estimates in the high‐resolution domain. The emerging pattern is one of local upwelling intensification in response to increased alongshore wind stress in the lee of capes, modulated by alongshore meanders in the geostrophic circulation. While stronger upwelling occurs near most major topographic features, substantial increases in phytoplankton biomass only ensue where local circulation patterns are conducive to on‐shelf retention of upwelled nutrients. Locations of peak nutrient delivery and chlorophyll accumulation also exhibit interannual variability and trends noticeably larger than the surrounding shelf regions, thereby suggesting that long‐term planktonic ecosystem response in the California Current exhibits a significant local scale (O(100 km)) alongshore component.
Assessing Land Deformation and Sea Encroachment in the Nile Delta: A Radar Interferometric and Inundation Modeling Approach
Authors: Gebremichael Esayas , Sultan Mohamed , Becker Richard , El Bastawesy Mohamed , Cherif Omar , Emil Mustafa
Published: April 2018

Persistent scatterer interferometric analyses were conducted on a stack of 84 Environmental Satellite's Advanced Synthetic Aperture Radar scenes spanning 7 years (2004 to 2010) over the entire Nile Delta of Egypt and surroundings (area: 40,416 km2) to monitor the ongoing spatial and temporal land deformation, identify the factors controlling the deformation, and model the interplay between sea level rise and land subsidence to identify areas and populations threatened by sea encroachment by the end of the 21st century. Findings include the following: (1) general patterns of subsidence (average rate: −2.4 mm/year) in the northern delta, near‐steady to slight subsidence in the southern delta (average rate: 0.4 mm/year), separated by a previously mapped flexure zone (minimum width: 20–40 km) undergoing uplift (average rate: 2.5 mm/year); (2) high subsidence rates (up to −8.9 mm/year) over the north central and northeastern delta (area: ~4,815 km2), possibly due to compaction of recent (<3,500 years old), thick (>5 m) silt and clay‐rich Holocene sediments; (3) high subsidence rates (up to −9.7 mm/year) in areas where the highest groundwater extraction rates were reported in southern delta (Menoufia governorate) and in reclaimed desert land in the western delta (Beheira governorate); (4) high subsidence rates (up to −9.7 mm/year) over onshore gas fields, notably the Abu Madi gas field, where high gas extraction rates have been recorded; and (5) using extracted deformation rates, high‐resolution TanDEM‐X digital elevation model, a eustatic sea level rise of 0.44 m, and applying a bathtub inundation model, an estimated 2,660 km2 in northern delta will be inundated by year 2100.
Controls on Cyclic Formation of Quaternary Early Diagenetic Dolomite
Authors: McCormack J. , Bontognali T. R. R. , Immenhauser A. , Kwiecien O.
Published: April 2018

The origin of sedimentary dolomite and the factors that control its formation within the geological record remain speculative. In most models, dolomite formation is linked to evaporative conditions, high water temperature, increasing Mg/Ca ratio, increasing alkalinity, and high amounts of biomass. Here we challenge these archetypal views, by documenting a case example of Quaternary dolomite which formed in Lake Van at constantly low temperature (<4°C) and without direct control of the latter conditions. Dolomite occurs within highstand sediments related to suborbital climate variability (Dansgaard‐Oeschger cycles). We propose that dolomite precipitation is a product of a microbially influenced process, triggered by ecological stress, resulting from reventilation of the water‐sediment interface. Independently from the validity of this hypothesis, our results call for a reevaluation of the paleoenvironmental conditions often invoked for early diagenetic dolomite‐rich intervals within sedimentary sequences and for caution when interpreting time series of subrecent lacustrine carbonates.
Formation of Aldehydes and Ketones by Oxidation
Authors: Larock Richard C. , Dubrovskiy Anton V. , Markina Nataliya A.
Published: April 2018

Alkanes

Alkenes

Enamines

Alkenylphosphonates

Dienes and Polyenes

Alkynes

Halides, Nitrites, Nitrates, and Sulfonates

Amines and Derivatives

Nitro Compounds

Diazo Compounds

Azides

Phosphorus Ylids

Ethers

Sulfides

Sulfoxides

Sulfones and Sultams

Phenols and Derivatives

Alcohols

Allylic Alcohols

Homoallylic Alcohols

Propargylic Alcohols

Homopropargylic Alcohols

Diols and Derivatives

Halohydrins

α‐Hydroxyketones

Hydroxyacids and Derivatives

Aldehydes

Ketones

Acetals

Carboxylic Acids and Derivatives

Acid Halides

Esters and Lactones

Amides

Nitriles and Acyl Cyanides

Furans

Organometallics
Formation of Aldehydes and Ketones by Electrophilic Acylation
Authors: Larock Richard C. , Dubrovskiy Anton V. , Markina Nataliya A.
Published: April 2018

Synthesis of Aldehydes

Synthesis of Ketones

Friedel–Crafts and Related Reactions
Formation of Nitriles, Carboxylic Acids, and Derivatives by Rearrangements
Authors: Larock Richard C. , Rozhkov Roman
Published: April 2018

Willgerodt and Related Reactions

Baeyer–Villager

Beckmann and Related Reactions

Schmidt

Curtius

Oxaziridine→Amide

Favorski and Related Reactions

Benzilic Acid

Arndt–Eistert and Wolff

Cope

Aza–Cope

Claisen

Aza‐Claisen and Related Rearrangements

Allylic Selenides

Imidate Esters

2,3‐Sigmatropic Rearrangement

Ene Reaction‐Oxidation

Ring Opening

Ring Expansion

Decarboxylation–Allylation

Other Reactions
Progranulin levels in blood in Alzheimer's disease and mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Cooper Yonatan A. , Nachun Daniel , Dokuru Deepika , Yang Zhongan , Karydas Anna M. , Serrero Ginette , Yue Binbin ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Boxer Adam L. , Miller Bruce L. , Coppola Giovanni
Published: April 2018

Objective

Changes in progranulin (GRN) expression have been hypothesized to alter risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). We investigated the relationship between GRN expression in peripheral blood and clinical diagnosis of AD and mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Peripheral blood progranulin gene expression was measured, using microarrays from Alzheimer's (n = 186), MCI (n = 118), and control (n = 204) subjects from the University of California San Francisco Memory and Aging Center (UCSF‐MAC) and two independent published series (AddNeuroMed and ADNI). GRN gene expression was correlated with clinical, demographic, and genetic data, including APOE haplotype and the GRN rs5848 single‐nucleotide polymorphism. Finally, we assessed progranulin protein levels, using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and methylation status using methylation microarrays.

Results

We observed an increase in blood progranulin gene expression and a decrease in GRN promoter methylation in males (P = 0.007). Progranulin expression was 13% higher in AD and MCI patients compared with controls in the UCSF‐MAC cohort (F2,505 = 10.41, P = 3.72*10−5). This finding was replicated in the AddNeuroMed (F2,271 = 17.9, P = 4.83*10−8) but not the ADNI series. The rs5848 SNP (T‐allele) predicted decreased blood progranulin gene expression (P = 0.03). The APOE4 haplotype was positively associated with progranulin expression independent of diagnosis (P = 0.04). Finally, we did not identify differences in plasma progranulin protein levels or gene methylation between diagnostic categories.

Interpretation

Progranulin mRNA is elevated in peripheral blood of patients with AD and MCI and its expression is associated with numerous genetic and demographic factors. These data suggest a role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative dementias besides frontotemporal dementia.
Identification from CCTV: Assessing police super‐recogniser ability to spot faces in a crowd and susceptibility to change blindness
Authors: Davis Josh P. , Forrest Charlotte , Treml Felicia , Jansari Ashok
Published: April 2018

Police worldwide regularly review closed‐circuit television (CCTV) evidence in investigations. This research found that London police experts who work in a full‐time “Super‐Recogniser Unit” and front line police identifiers regularly making suspect identifications from CCTV possessed superior unfamiliar face recognition ability and, with higher levels of confidence, outperformed controls at locating actors in a bespoke Spot the Face in a Crowd Test. Police were also less susceptible to change blindness errors and possessed higher levels of conscientiousness and lower levels of neuroticism and openness. Controls who took part in Spot the Face in a Crowd Test actor familiarisation training outperformed untrained controls, suggesting this exercise might enhance identification of persons of interest in real investigations. This research supports an accumulating body of evidence demonstrating that international police forces may benefit from deploying officers with superior face recognition ability to roles such as CCTV review, as these officers may be the most likely to identify persons of interest.
The Impact of Illness Perceptions and Coping on the Association Between Back Pain and Health Outcomes in Patients Suspected of Having Axial Spondyloarthritis: Data From the SPondyloArthritis Caught Early Cohort
Authors: van Lunteren Miranda , Scharloo Margreet , Ez‐Zaitouni Zineb , de Koning Anoek , Landewé Robert , Fongen Camilla , Ramonda Roberta , Kaptein Ad A. , van Gaalen Floris A. , van der Heijde Désirée
Published: April 2018

Objective

To investigate whether illness perceptions and coping influence the relationship between back pain and health outcomes in patients suspected of having axial spondyloarthritis (SpA).

Methods

In the SPondyloArthritis Caught Early cohort, regression models were computed at baseline, with back pain intensity (range 0–10) as the determinant and health‐related quality of life, the physical component summary score (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) of the Short Form 36 (SF‐36) health survey, or work productivity loss as outcomes. Subsequently, using Leventhal's Common‐Sense Model of Self‐Regulation, illness perceptions and, thereafter, coping were added to the models. Analyses were repeated for patients diagnosed and classified as having axial SpA according to the Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society axial SpA criteria (ASAS axial SpA), patients only diagnosed with axial SpA (axial SpA–diagnosed only), and those with chronic back pain.

Results

A total of 424 patients (145 with ASAS axial SpA, 81 with only a diagnosis of axial SpA, and 198 with chronic back pain); 64% of the total group were female, the mean ± SD age was 30.9 ± 8.1 years, and the mean ± SD symptom duration was 13.3 ± 7.1 months) were studied. In all patients, the strength of the associations between back pain and the PCS, back pain and the MCS score, and back pain and loss of work productivity were decreased by adding illness perceptions to the model, but explained variance improved. Adding coping to these models did not change the results. Comparable results were observed in all subgroups.

Conclusion

Illness perception, but not coping, is important in the relationship between back pain and HRQoL and work productivity loss in patients suspected of having axial SpA, irrespective of subgroup. This finding suggests that targeting illness perceptions could improve health outcomes in patients suspected of having axial SpA.
Cost‐Utility Analysis of Routine Anxiety and Depression Screening in Patients Consulting for Osteoarthritis: Results From a Clinical, Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kigozi Jesse , Jowett Sue , Nicholl Barbara I. , Lewis Martyn , Bartlam Bernadette , Green Daniel , Belcher John , Clarkson Kris , Lingard Zoe , Pope Christopher , Chew‐Graham Carolyn A. , Croft Peter , Hay Elaine M. , Peat George , Mallen Christian D.
Published: April 2018

Objective

To investigate the cost‐effectiveness (cost‐utility) of introducing general practitioner screening for anxiety and depression in patients consulting for osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

A cluster‐randomized trial‐based economic evaluation to assess general practitioners screening for anxiety and depression symptoms in patients consulting for OA compared to usual care (screening for pain intensity) was undertaken over a 12‐month period from a UK National Health Service and societal perspective. Patient‐level mean costs and mean quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were estimated, and cost‐effectiveness acceptability curves controlling for cluster‐level data were constructed. The base‐case analysis used the net benefit regressions approach. The 2‐stage nonparametric sampling technique was explored in a sensitivity analysis.

Results

The base‐case analysis demonstrated that the intervention was as costly as, and less effective than, the control (QALY differential −0.029 [95% confidence interval −0.062, 0.003]). In the base‐case analyses, general practitioner screening for anxiety and depression was unlikely to be a cost‐effective option (probability <5% at £20,000/QALY). Similar results were observed in all sensitivity analyses.

Conclusion

Prompting general practitioners to routinely screen and manage comorbid anxiety and depression in patients presenting with OA is unlikely to be cost‐effective. Further research is needed to explore clinically effective and cost‐effective models of managing anxiety and depression in patients presenting with clinical OA.
Does Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Care Provided in a Lupus Clinic Result in Higher Quality of Care Than That Provided in a General Rheumatology Clinic?
Authors: Arora Shilpa , Nika Ailda , Trupin Laura , Abraham Hrudya , Block Joel , Sequeira Winston , Yazdany Jinoos , Jolly Meenakshi
Published: April 2018

Objective

To compare the quality of care received by patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in 2 settings within the academic institution (a dedicated lupus clinic and a general rheumatology clinic) using validated SLE quality measures.

Methods

One hundred fifty consenting, consecutive SLE patients receiving longitudinal care at the Rush University general rheumatology clinic (n = 73) or the subspecialty lupus clinic (n = 77) were recruited. An updated quality measure survey and retrospective medical chart review were used to evaluate each quality measure (n = 20). The overall and individual quality measure performance was calculated and compared between the 2 groups. Data on the number of SLE patients seen by each rheumatologist were collected to assess the relationship between SLE patient volume and quality measures.

Results

Overall quality measure performance was significantly better in SLE patients receiving care at the lupus clinic (85.8% versus 70.2% of patients receiving care at the general rheumatology clinic; P = 0.001). Differences between the 2 groups were observed for sunscreen counseling (98.7% and 83.6%, respectively; P = 0.001), antiphospholipid antibody testing (71.4% and 37%, respectively; P < 0.001), pneumococcal vaccination (84.8% and 48.8%, respectively; P < 0.001), bone mineral density testing (94.2% and 54.5%, respectively; P < 0.001), drug counseling (92.2% and 80.8%, respectively; P = 0.04), use of a steroid‐sparing agent (100% and 82%, respectively; P < 0.007), use of an angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (94.4% and 58.3%, respectively; P = 0.03), and cardiovascular disease risk assessment (40.3% and 15.1%, respectively; P = 0.01). There was a moderate correlation between physician volume and quality measure performance (ρ = 0.48, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Compared with the general rheumatology clinic, the dedicated lupus clinic had better quality measure performance in this cross‐sectional single‐center study. In our health care system, we also observed indicators suggesting that rheumatologists with a higher volume of SLE patients provide higher quality of care.
Aerobic Exercise and Fatigue in Rheumatoid Arthritis Participants: A Meta‐Analysis Using the Minimal Important Difference Approach
Authors: Kelley George A. , Kelley Kristi S. , Callahan Leigh F.
Published: April 2018

Objective

To use the minimal important difference (MID) versus the standardized mean difference (SMD) approach in order to provide more robust and clinically relevant information regarding the association between land‐based aerobic exercise and changes in self‐reported fatigue among adults with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

Data from a previous meta‐analysis of 5 randomized controlled trials that represented up to 298 participants per study were utilized to calculate 9 effect sizes, using the MID approach. Data used to obtain the MID were derived from previously reported anchor‐based values specific to each fatigue instrument in adults with RA. Results were pooled using a random‐effects model.

Results

Aerobic exercise resulted in statistically significant reductions in self‐reported fatigue (MID effect size −0.34 [95% confidence interval (95% CI) −0.58, −0.10]; P = 0.006). Results were similar when effect sizes were collapsed so that only 1 effect size represented each study (MID effect size −0.39 [95% CI −0.76, −0.03]; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Land‐based aerobic exercise is associated with statistically significant reductions in fatigue; however, based on previous cut points, it may be unlikely that a substantial number of participants with RA could obtain clinically relevant reductions in fatigue. Additional studies are needed, especially in those individuals with RA who have elevated levels of fatigue.
Qualitative Evaluation of Evidence‐Based Online Decision Aid and Resources for Osteoarthritis Management: Understanding Patient Perspectives
Authors: Jeon Yun‐Hee , Flaherty Ian , Urban Hema , Wortley Sally , Dickson Chris , Salkeld Glenn , Hunter David J.
Published: April 2018

Objective

To qualitatively examine the experiences with, and impact of, evidence‐based online resources in self‐management among Australians with osteoarthritis.

Methods

Telephone interviews were conducted with 36 users of a novel osteoarthritis resource, the Osteoarthritis Awareness Hub. Rogers’ 5 attributes of innovation (relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability, and observability) and outcomes guided the semistructured interview and analysis. Maximum variation sampling was used, and data saturation occurred after 33 interviews. A coding scheme was agreed upon and all interview data were entered into NVivo for qualitative content analysis.

Results

Study participants had high levels of literacy and health literacy. For adoption and implementation of an innovation, the participants’ narratives confirmed and underscored the fact that it was important that it come from an authoritative and trusting voice and that its perceived benefits align with participants’ values and existing practices (relative advantage and compatibility). The participants also valued seeing the practical benefits of the innovation, such as its capacity to impart quality and balanced new insights and information, and to maintain and monitor their personal progress. Notably, many participants spoke about the mental and physical health benefits that they derived from engagement with the online resources.

Conclusion

Our study findings confirm that web‐based tools can be a useful adjunct to patients adopting self‐management strategies. Rogers’ theory provides a framework for a deeper appreciation of the how, why, and what questions concerning the adoption and implementation processes, especially among people with good technology and health literacy.
Higher ploidy is associated with reduced range breadth in the Potentilleae tribe
Authors: Brittingham Hayley A. , Koski Matthew H. , Ashman Tia‐Lynn
Published: April 2018

Premise of the Study

Polyploids are predicted to have greater niche breadth and larger ranges than diploids because of higher ecological tolerances, self‐compatibility, and increased genetic variation. However, empirical support for this prediction is mixed, and most studies compare diploids and polyploids, rather than accounting for quantitative variation in ploidy. We test the prediction that species of higher ploidy have greater range breadth and abiotic breadth than those of lower ploidy.

Methods

We estimate range breadth (latitudinal range, altitudinal range, and range size) and abiotic breadth (range in temperature, precipitation, and ultraviolet‐B irradiance) for 109 species in the Potentilleae tribe of Rosaceae. We assess the contribution of ploidy to variation in range breadth, while accounting for shared evolutionary history and time of species divergence using phylogenetic comparative methods.

Key Results

Ploidy varied widely among species from 2× to 12×. Phylogenetic relatedness explained little of the variation in ploidy, range breadth, and abiotic breadth. Transitions to higher ploidy were associated with reduced latitudinal and altitudinal ranges, smaller overall range size, and reduced abiotic breadth for temperature and UV‐B.

Conclusions

In contrast to predictions, this study shows that transitions to higher ploidy are associated with reduced range size and abiotic breadth. It also highlights the importance of considering continuous variation in ploidy when evaluating ecological correlates with ploidy. We discuss how genome duplication may contribute to the observed negative relationship between ploidy and range breadth.
Recovering missing mesothelioma deaths in death certificates using hospital records
Authors: Santana Vilma S. , Algranti Eduardo , Campos Felipe , Cavalcante Franciana , Salvi Leonardo , Santos Simone A. , Inamine Rosemeire N. , Souza William , Consonni Dario
Published: April 2018

Background

In Brazil, underreporting of mesothelioma and cancer of the pleura (MCP) is suspected to be high. Records from death certificates (SIM) and hospital registers (SIH‐SUS) can be combined to recover missing data but only anonymous databases are available. This study shows how common data can be used for linkage and as an assessment of accuracy.

Methods

Mesothelioma (all sites, ICD‐10 codes C45.0‐C45.9) and cancer of the pleura (C38.4) were retrieved from both information systems and combined using a linkage algorithm. Accuracy was examined with non‐anonymous databases, limited to the state of São Paulo.

Results

We found 775 cases in death certificates and 283 in hospital registers. The linkage matched 57 cases, all accurately paired. Three cases, 0.4% in SIM and 1.3% in SIH‐SUS, could not be matched because of data inconsistencies.

Conclusions

A computer linkage can recover MCP cases from hospital records not found in death certificates in Brazil.
Analytische Chemie – aktuelle Trends im Vergleich zu den historischen Anfängen
Authors: Nießner Reinhard
Published: April 2018

Ausgewählte aktuelle Trends der analytischen Chemie werden vergleichend zu methodischen Ansätzen im gleichen Arbeitsfeld, die aber bereits im 19. Jahrhundert publiziert wurden, diskutiert. So ist etwa die mikrogravimetrische Massenbestimmung zu einer nachweisstarken Sensortechnologie weiterentwickelt worden. In der Spektroskopie ist ein zunehmender Wechsel zur Raman‐Spektroskopie beobachtbar. Eine Renaissance erleben papierbasierte tüpfelanalytische Verfahren mit visueller Auslesung, etwa bei Wegwerf‐Teststreifen in der Medizin. Die Abtrennung störender Komponenten wird durch die zunehmenden nachhaltigen Technologien, bedingt durch natürliche Verunreinigungen, ein Muss sein. Die angestrebte unterbrechungslose Rund‐um‐die‐Uhr‐Produktion wird auf Techniken zur kontinuierlichen Trennung zurückgreifen müssen. Generell ist die Bereitstellung hochselektiver Rezeptoren eine Notwendigkeit für die analytische Chemie geworden. Mikro‐ und nanostrukturierte Nachweistechniken benötigen Rezeptoren, die nach Strukturaufklärung der hochaffinen Ligand‐Rezeptor‐Komplexe in Massenproduktion und mit definierter Qualität hergestellt werden können.
Atomically Precise Nanocluster Assemblies Encapsulating Plasmonic Gold Nanorods
Authors: Chakraborty Amrita , Fernandez Ann Candice , Som Anirban , Mondal Biswajit , Natarajan Ganapati , Paramasivam Ganesan , Lahtinen Tanja , Häkkinen Hannu , Nonappa  , Pradeep Thalappil
Published: April 2018

The self‐assembled structures of atomically precise, ligand‐protected noble metal nanoclusters leading to encapsulation of plasmonic gold nanorods (GNRs) is presented. Unlike highly sophisticated DNA nanotechnology, this strategically simple hydrogen bonding‐directed self‐assembly of nanoclusters leads to octahedral nanocrystals encapsulating GNRs. Specifically, the p‐mercaptobenzoic acid (pMBA)‐protected atomically precise silver nanocluster, Na4[Ag44(pMBA)30], and pMBA‐functionalized GNRs were used. High‐resolution transmission and scanning transmission electron tomographic reconstructions suggest that the geometry of the GNR surface is responsible for directing the assembly of silver nanoclusters via H‐bonding, leading to octahedral symmetry. The use of water‐dispersible gold nanoclusters, Au≈250(pMBA)n and Au102(pMBA)44, also formed layered shells encapsulating GNRs. Such cluster assemblies on colloidal particles are a new category of precision hybrids with diverse possibilities.
The Role of Bi3+ in Promoting and Stabilizing Iron Oxo Clusters in Strong Acid
Authors: Sadeghi Omid , Amiri Mehran , Reinheimer Eric W. , Nyman May
Published: April 2018

Metal oxo clusters and metal oxides assemble and precipitate from water in processes that depend on pH, temperature, and concentration. Other parameters that influence the structure, composition, and nuclearity of “molecular” and bulk metal oxides are poorly understood, and have thus not been exploited. Herein, we show that Bi3+ drives the formation of aqueous Fe3+ clusters, usurping the role of pH. We isolated and structurally characterized a Bi/Fe cluster, Fe3BiO2(CCl3COO)8(THF)(H2O)2, and demonstrated its conversion into an iron Keggin ion capped by six Bi3+ irons (Bi6Fe13). The reaction pathway was documented by X‐ray scattering and mass spectrometry. Opposing the expected trend, increased cluster nuclearity required a pH decrease instead of a pH increase. We attribute this anomalous behavior of Bi/Fe(aq) solutions to Bi3+, which drives hydrolysis and condensation. Likewise, Bi3+ stabilizes metal oxo clusters and metal oxides in strongly acidic conditions, which is important in applications such as water oxidation for energy storage.
Analytical Chemistry: Current Trends in Light of the Historic Beginnings
Authors: Niessner Reinhard
Published: April 2018

Selected current trends in analytical chemistry are discussed and traced back to original work published more than a hundred years ago in the same field. Gravimetric microanalysis has been transformed into a mass‐sensitive sensor technology. New developments in molecular spectroscopy are seen in Raman spectroscopy. In the area of chemical sensors, paper‐based devices with visual readout (dipsticks, microfluidic pads) celebrate a revival. In “green” applications, the separation of analytes from complicated matrices is often the key to successful analysis. Continuous separation techniques are essential for the 24/7 production of goods with certified quality. Finally, micro‐ and nanoscale techniques rely on highly selective receptors, and their development is based on detailed understanding of the structure of ligand–receptor complexes.