bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching student teachers
Authors: Humenberger Hans , Reichel Hans-Christian
Published: November 2015

In this paper we summarize various aspects of teacher training and teaching student teachers (mainly concerning teachers of upper secondary school and High school). We stress several hints and recommendations to better achieve the obviously important aim: they should learn doing, understanding and teaching mathematics!
Of course, our view is particularly influenced by European traditions, but we think most of them equally apply to teacher training and teaching student teachers elsewhere. Neither is the paper meant to give an all sided overview about the problem field of teacher education as a whole, nor does it contain provocative, completely new ideas. We just want to describe our view of some aspects, based primarily on our personal experience in the mentioned field.
Gaussian iteration of mean values and the existence of 2^(1/2)
Authors: Daróczy Zoltán
Published: November 2015

We propose a method for proving the existence of √2 and finding its approximate value in secondary education.
Using the computer to visualise graph-oriented problems
Authors: Gyöngyösi Erika
Published: November 2015

The computer, if used more effectively, could bring advances that would improve mathematical education dramatically, not least with its ability to calculate quickly and display moving graphics. There is a gap between research results of the enthusiastic innovators in the field of information technology and the current weak integration of the use of computers into mathematics teaching.
This paper examines what exactly the real potentials of using some mathematics computer software are to support mathematics teaching and learning in graph-oriented problems, more specifically we try to estimate the value added impact of computer use in the mathematics learning process.
While electronic computation has been used by mathematicians for five decades, it has been in the hands of teachers and learners for at most three decades but the real breakthrough of decentralised and personalised micro-computer-based computing has been widely available for less than two decades. And it is the latter facility that has brought the greatest promise for computers in mathematics education. That computational aids overall do a better job of holding students' mathematical interest and challenging them to use their intellectual power to mathematical achievement than do traditional static media is unquestionable. The real question needing investigation concerns the circumstances where each is appropriate.
A case study enabled a specification of advantages and obstacles of using computers in graph-oriented questions. Individual students' interviews revealed two less able students' reactions, difficulties and misinterpretations while using computers in mathematics learning.
Among research outcomes is that the mathematical achievement of the two students observed improved and this makes teaching with computers an overriding priority for each defined teaching method.
This paper may not have been realised without the valuable help of the Hungarian Eötvös State Grant.
Metadata formats and the new markup language from library field
Authors: Salgáné Medveczki Marianna
Published: November 2015

Using new communication technologies libraries must face continuously new questions, possibilities and expectations. This study discusses some library-related aspects of our electronic era and how computer-related data formats affect bibliographic dataprocessing to give a survey of the most important results.
Altough library systems have been supporting the creation and maintenance of MARC records for decades, the need to create other forms of metadata is relatively new. In higher education it is important that students get acquainted with these new aspects of bibliographic description and bibliographic dataprocessing.
In our department I launched the BDML development project in order to standardize bibliographic description (based on Hungarian standard 3424/1) with the help of XML. The development aims at the creation of a set of standards that provides information about the structure of bibliographic description in XML form. In the second part of the paper I give a brief presentation and summary of BDML.
An evaluating tool for programming contests
Authors: Kósa Márk , Pánovics János , Gunda Lénárd
Published: November 2015

Students of the University of Debrecen majoring in informatics have been participating in regional ACM international collegiate programming contests since 1995. In earlier times arrangement of the local rounds was difficult because we had to check the contestants' submissions by hand. Beyond the discomfort, this hindered the efficient work of the jury and involved a number of possibilities of making mistakes.
The Programming Contest Result Manager (PCRM) program developed in the past two years provides a solution to the above problems. The program automates the evaluation of submissions and provides both the jury and the contestants with a user interface. This application can help the jury not only in ACM type but also in other kinds of practical programming contests.
The Project Method and investigation in school mathematics
Authors: Ujháziová Renáta , Kopka Ján , Šveda Dušan , Frobisher Leonard
Published: November 2015

The Project Method (PM) is becoming more common in the teaching of mathematics. Most of the time, Project Method means solving open and relatively wide formulated problems for the application of particular mathematical topics and the solving of everyday life problems.
At present many experts in the theory of teaching mathematics advocate teaching activities as the characteristic for most mathematical work in the classroom. Thus, there is a question: whether it is possible or eventual desirable to use the PM for solving genuine mathematical problems. This paper deals with this question and discusses the connection between the PM and investigation of new mathematical knowledge for students. Our experience has shown that the PM in connection with investigations can be a useful and effective approach to teaching mathematics.
Proof without words
Authors: Plaza Ángel
Published: November 2015

Theorem. Let O, P and Q be three points on a line, with P lying between O and Q. Semicircles are drawn on the same side of the line with diameters OP, PQ and OQ. An arbelos is the figure bounded by these three semicircles. Draw the perpendicular…
Fuzzy Datalog with background knowledge
Authors: Achs Ágnes
Published: November 2015

In this paper we give a possible model for handling uncertain information. The concept of fuzzy knowledge-base will be defined as a triplet of a background knowledge defined by the similarity of predicates and terms; a deduction mechanism: a fuzzy Datalog program, and a decoding set of the program, which help us to determine the uncertainty level of the results.
Report on "Problem Solving in Mathematics Education"
Authors: Kántor Tünde
Published: November 2015

The sixth ProMath Conference was organized at the University of Debrecen (Hungary) in the year 2005. There were 12 presentations. After a short historical introduction we present the 12 abstracts written by the authors.
An Evaluation of the Participatory Learning and Action (PLA) Training Workshop
Authors: Ibnouf Mahmoad H. , Sheqwarah Maen N. , Sultan Kamel I.
Published: November 2015

The main objective of this study was to evaluate the perception of the trainees regarding the participatory learning and action training workshop which was held at Edamer Local Implementation Unit during the period of July 17-25/2011. The participants of the training workshop were selected individuals and groups. Twenty four trainees attended the training workshop. The questionnaire was developed by the researchers and covered selected statements related to perceptions of the trainees regarding overall activities of the training program. The data was collected from the trainees at the end of the training program. Information obtained from the questionnaires analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), means and standard deviation were used as statistical methods to determine the perceptions level of the trainees.

The results of the study indicated that the trainees as a group agreed that the training program was very useful and interesting. They also indicated that the trainer was very friendly, helpful and used a variety of teaching methods and field work techniques. The results also indicated that the training program covered required technical and professional competencies in participatory learning and action approach. The study produced some recommendations and strategies for improving the present and future program.
Wood Ash Improved Soil Properties and Crop Yield for Nine Years and Saved Fertilizer
Authors: Gill Kabal S. , Malhi Sukhdev S. , Lupwayi Newton Z.
Published: November 2015

Wood ash may be used to mitigate soil acidity and improve crop production. We compared effects of wood ash and recommended fertilizers on soil properties of a Gray Luivsol, crop yields and contribution margins in southeast Peace, Alberta, Canada. The CHK (no fertilizer, inoculation or wood ash), FRT (recommended fertilizers or inoculation), ASH (wood ash rate to supply amounts of phosphorus equivalent to the FRT treatment); and ASH+N (same as ASH + N fertilizer or inoculation) treatments were applied in 2006 and 2007. Their effects were studied from 2006 to 2014. Wood ash had all the essential plant nutrients, except nitrogen. Soil samples collected in 2007, 2008 and 2013 had or tended to have higher pH, P, K, Ca, Ca:Mg ratio, S, Cu, Zn and B levels for the ASH and ASH+N treatments than the CHK and FRT treatments. In the 2006 and 2007, the seed yields were ASH+N > FRT > ASH > CHK. The seed yields in 2008, 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014 were greater from both the wood ash treatments than other treatments. Extra contribution margin from the ASH+N over the FRT treatment was $751/ha, i.e. $97 Mg-1 of applied wood ash. Overall, wood ash reduced fertilizer expenditure and improved seed yield, contribution margin and soil properties, with residual effects observed up to seven years and likely for few more years.
De regisserende zaaksrechter: de regierol van de rechter volgens KEI
Authors: den Tonkelaar J.D.A.
Published: November 2015

De regisserende zaaksrechter: de regierol van de rechter volgens KEI

Wat wetsvoorstel 34059 bedoelt met de regierol van de rechter werkt door bij het opstellen van procesreglementen en het doordenken van werkprocessen zoals dat nu in het project KEI gebeurt. De opvatting over de regierol die het wetsvoorstel uitdraagt, plaatst de zaaksrechter, die zo vroeg als mogelijk is bij de behandeling van de zaak wordt betrokken, op de voorgrond. Dit eist een andere aanpak van zaken dan tot nu toe bij veel gerechten gebruikelijk is.
Het EVRM, Unierecht en de nationale rechter
Authors: Silvis J.
Published: November 2015

Het EVRM, Unierecht en de nationale rechter

In dit artikel wordt ingegaan op de dialoog tussen nationale gerechten en het EHRM en op die tussen het EHRM en het Hof van Justitie. Voor de dialoog tussen de hoogste nationale gerechten en het EHRM is het optioneel Protocol 16 bij het EVRM van grote betekenis. De toetreding van de EU tot de mensenrechtenconventie staat onder druk, aangezien het Hof van Justitie in opinie 2/13 een reeks zwaarwegende problemen heeft gesignaleerd en negatief heeft geadviseerd op een concept-toetredingsakkoord.
De hoogste nationale rechter en de Europese hoven
Authors: Loth M.A.
Published: November 2015

De hoogste nationale rechter en de Europese hoven. Naar een systeem van checks-and-balances tússen gerechten?

Deze bijdrage is gewijd aan de verhoudingen tussen de hoogste nationale rechters, het HvJ EU en het EHRM. Enerzijds behouden diverse hoogste nationale rechters zich de mogelijkheid van het laatste woord voor, zonder daarvan daadwerkelijk gebruik te maken. Anderzijds heeft het HvJ EU de mogelijkheid erkend van lidstaataansprakelijkheid voor een gekwalificeerde schending van het Unierecht als een afbakening van het speelveld, niet als een remedie voor rechtszoekenden. Ook de verhouding tussen het HvJ EU en het EHRM is nog niet uitgekristalliseerd. De gesignaleerde verschuivingen kunnen het beste worden begrepen als onderdeel van een systeem van checks-and-balances tússen de betrokken gerechten.
Predictive Relationship between Depression and Quality of Life among Patients with Type II Diabetes in Karachi-Pakistan
Authors: Umara Rauf  , Uzma Ali
Published: November 2015

The aim of the present study was to explore the relationship between depression and quality of life among individuals with type II diabetes. On the basis of literature review it was hypothesized that a) depression will predict quality of life among patients with diabetes b) there will be negative relationship between depression and quality of life among patients with diabetes. A purposive sample of 96 people with diabetes type II diagnosed by physicians was selected from different hospitals and different organizations of Karachi, Pakistan. Their age range was between 25 to 75 years (mean age = 41.2, SD = 12.3) and they belonged to three major socioeconomic status i.e. low, middle and high. To measure the depression Salma Siddiqui Depression Scale was used and quality of life was assessed through WHO Quality of life BREF-Urdu Version. Descriptive statistics and linear regression were applied for the analysis of data. Findings revealed that there was moderately significant negative relationship between Depression and Quality of Life (p
L’accommodation des valeurs professionnelles aux valeurs culturelles chez les bibliothécaires universitaires sénégalais
Authors: Dione Bernard
Published: November 2015

Cette recherche explore et décrit l’accommodation des valeurs professionnelles au sein du système de valeurs culturelles par les bibliothécaires universitaires sénégalais. Elle commence par décrire le système de valeurs culturelles et le système de valeurs professionnelles des bibliothécaires universitaires sénégalais avant d’explorer la manière dont ces derniers accommodent leurs valeurs professionnelles à leurs valeurs culturelles. Par accommoder les valeurs professionnelles aux valeurs culturelles, nous entendons la manière dont les bibliothécaires universitaires adaptent, concilient et mettent en cohérence valeurs professionnelles et valeurs culturelles.
Le processus de réflexion éthique chez des enseignants de l’ordre collégial
Authors: Gohier Christiane , Jutras France , Desautels Luc , Chaubet Philippe
Published: November 2015

Cet article porte sur le processus de réflexion éthique chez des enseignants de l’ordre collégial dans le cadre d’une recherche collaborative conduite auprès de deux groupes d’enseignants. Les résultats de la recherche sont exposés en décrivant les différentes catégories émergeant de l’analyse du processus, celles qui portent sur la dynamique du processus ainsi que sur les types et les référents ou objets des énoncés. Outre les éléments décrivant la dynamique des interactions vécues dans la discussion entre les participants, les moments clés de cette dynamique et de l’évolution de la réflexion éthique sont mis au jour.
Analyse de besoins sur l’utilisation des outils Web 2.0 : éléments essentiels pour la communication dans les équipes de recherche universitaire
Authors: Lepage Mario , Sauvé Louise , Plante Patrick , Renaud Lise
Published: November 2015

Les outils Web 2.0 peuvent répondre aux besoins des équipes de recherche voulant maximiser la circulation de l’information et la collaboration. Cet article présente les résultats de l’analyse de besoins, première étape de cette étude de recherche et développement. Après avoir cerné un corpus d’outils Web 2.0, un questionnaire a été envoyé auprès d’un échantillon de 172 sujets. Nous constatons que la distinction entre les différents segments des répondants est faible et qu’ils utilisent plusieurs des outils de communication, de gestion et de réseautage – mais beaucoup moins les outils d’organisation/structuration de la formation et/ou de l’information – et les outils de captation. Les sujets souhaitent recevoir de l’information sur les outils Web 2.0 et préfèrent une formation en ligne de type autonome.
Finite-difference time-domain analysis of electromagnetic wave propagation in corrugated waveguide: Effect of miter bend/polarizer miter bend
Authors: Fujita Yoshihisa , Ikuno Soichiro , Kubo Shin , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: November 2015

The effect of the polarizer miter bend (PMB) reflector on polarization is numerically investigated by using the finite-difference time-domain (FDTD) method. The Drude model is implemented to take into account the fact that the waveguide wall is prepared from a dispersive medium. In electron cyclotron resonance heating (ECRH), the corrugated waveguide and miter bend are adopted for transmitting millimeter electromagnetic waves. In addition, PMB is employed to improve the plasma heating efficiency. The results of computations show that modes other than the input mode are also generated owing to the reflection at the miter bend mirror/PMB reflector. Moreover, it is found that elliptical polarization is observed after the linear polarization passes through PMB.
Chemotaxis and degradation of organophosphate compound by a novel moderately thermo-halo tolerantPseudomonassp. strain BUR11: evidence for possible existence of two pathways for degradation
Authors: Pailan Santanu , Saha Pradipta
Published: November 2015

An organophosphate (OP) degrading chemotactic bacterial strain BUR11 isolated from an agricultural field was identified as a member ofPseudomonasgenus on the basis of its 16S rRNA gene sequence. The strain could utilize parathion, chlorpyrifos and their major hydrolytic intermediates as sole source of carbon for its growth and exhibited positive chemotactic response towards most of them. Optimum concentration of parathion for its growth was recorded to be 200 ppm and 62% of which was degraded within 96 h at 37 °C. Growth studies indicated the strain to be moderately thermo-halo tolerant in nature. Investigation based on identification of intermediates of parathion degradation by thin layer chromatography (TLC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC) and liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) provided evidence for possible existence of two pathways. The first pathway proceeds via 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) while the second proceeds through formation of 4-aminoparathion (4-APar), 4-aminophenol (4-AP) and parabenzoquinone (PBQ). This is the first report of chemotaxis towards organophosphate compound by a thermo-halo tolerant bacterium.
Current nutrition promotion, beliefs and barriers among cancer nurses in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Puhringer Petra G. , Olsen Alicia , Climstein Mike , Sargeant Sally , Jones Lynnette M. , Keogh Justin W.L.
Published: November 2015

Rationale.Many cancer patients and survivors do not meet nutritional and physical activity guidelines, thus healthier eating and greater levels of physical activity could have considerable benefits for these individuals. While research has investigated cancer survivors’ perspective on their challenges in meeting the nutrition and physical guidelines, little research has examined how health professionals may assist their patients meet these guidelines. Cancer nurses are ideally placed to promote healthy behaviours to their patients, especially if access to dieticians or dietary resources is limited. However, little is known about cancer nurses’ healthy eating promotion practices to their patients. The primary aim of this study was to examine current healthy eating promotion practices, beliefs and barriers of cancer nurses in Australia and New Zealand. A secondary aim was to gain insight into whether these practices, beliefs and barriers were influenced by the nurses’ hospital or years of work experience.

Patients and Methods.An online questionnaire was used to obtain data. Sub-group cancer nurse comparisons were performed on hospital location (metropolitan vs regional and rural) and years of experience (<25 or ≥25 years) using ANOVA and chi square analysis for continuous and categorical data respectively.

Results.A total of 123 Australasian cancer nurses responded to the survey. Cancer nurses believed they were often the major provider of nutritional advice to their cancer patients (32.5%), a value marginally less than dieticians (35.9%) but substantially higher than oncologists (3.3%). The majority promoted healthy eating prior (62.6%), during (74.8%) and post treatment (64.2%). Most cancer nurses felt that healthy eating had positive effects on the cancer patients’ quality of life (85.4%), weight management (82.9%), mental health (80.5%), activities of daily living (79.7%) and risk of other chronic diseases (79.7%), although only 75.5% agreed or strongly agreed that this is due to a strong evidence base. Lack of time (25.8%), adequate support structures (17.3%) nutrition expertise (12.2%) were cited by the cancer nurses as the most common barriers to promoting healthy eating to their patients. Comparisons based on their hospital location and years of experience, revealed very few significant differences, indicating that cancer nurses’ healthy eating promotion practices, beliefs and barriers were largely unaffected by hospital location or years of experience.

Conclusion.Australasian cancer nurses have favourable attitudes towards promoting healthy eating to their cancer patients across multiple treatment stages and believe that healthy eating has many benefits for their patients. Unfortunately, several barriers to healthy eating promotion were reported. If these barriers can be overcome, nurses may be able to work more effectively with dieticians to improve the outcomes for cancer patients.
Marine biological production from in situ oxygen measurements on a profiling float in the subarctic Pacific Ocean
Authors: Bushinsky Seth M. , Emerson Steven
Published: November 2015

Evaluating the organic carbon flux from the surface ocean to the interior (the marine biological pump) is essential for predictions of ocean carbon cycle feedback to climate change. One approach for determining these fluxes is to measure the concentration of oxygen in the upper ocean over a seasonal cycle, calculate the net O2 flux using an upper ocean model, and then use a stoichiometric relationship between oxygen evolved and organic carbon produced. Applying this tracer in a variety of ocean areas over seasonal cycles requires accurate O2 measurements on autonomous vehicles. Here we demonstrate this approach using an O2 sensor on a profiling float that is periodically calibrated against atmospheric pO2. Using accurate data and a model that includes all physical and biological processes influencing oxygen, we determine an annual net community production of 0.7 ± 0.5 mol C m−2 yr−1 in the northeast Pacific Ocean (50°N, 145°W) from June 2012 to June 2013. There is a strong seasonal cycle in net biological oxygen production with wintertime fluxes caused by bubble processes critical to determining the annual flux. Approximately 50% of net autotrophic production during summer months is consumed by net respiration during the winter. The result is a biological pump in the subarctic Pacific Ocean that is less than that determined by similar methods in the subtropics to the south. This estimate is significantly lower than that predicted by satellite remote sensing and global circulation models.
A direct link between chorus emissions and pulsating aurora on timescales from milliseconds to minutes: A case study at subauroral latitudes
Authors: Ozaki Mitsunori , Yagitani Satoshi , Sawai Kaoru , Shiokawa Kazuo , Miyoshi Yoshizumi , Kataoka Ryuho , Ieda Akimasa , Ebihara Yusuke , Connors Martin , Schofield Ian , Katoh Yuto , Otsuka Yuichi , Sunagawa Naoki , Jordanova Vania K.
Published: November 2015

A correlation was observed between chorus emissions and pulsating aurora (PA) from observations at Athabasca (L≈4.3) in Canada at 9:00–9:20 UT on 7 February 2013, using an electron multiplying charge‐coupled device camera and a VLF loop antenna with sampling rates of 110 Hz and 100 kHz, respectively. Pulsating aurora having a quasiperiodic variation in luminosity and a few hertz modulation was observed together with chorus emissions consisting of a group of successive rising‐tone elements. The repetition period and modulation frequency of the PA are in good agreement with those of the modulated chorus. After 9:11 UT, the temporal features of the aurora became aperiodic PA of indistinct modulation. Simultaneously, the rising‐tone chorus turned into chorus emissions consisting of numerous rising‐tone elements. The equatorial geomagnetic field inhomogeneity calculated using the Tsyganenko 2002 model shows a decreasing trend during the period. This result is consistent with nonlinear wave growth theory having a small geomagnetic field inhomogeneity, which contributes to a decrease in the threshold amplitude to trigger discrete chorus elements. These observations show a close connection between chorus emissions and PA on timescales from milliseconds for generation of discrete chorus elements on the microphysics of wave‐particle interaction to minutes for the variations of the geomagnetic field inhomogeneity related with the substorm activity.
Application of Slepian theory for improving the accuracy of SH‐based global ionosphere models in the Arctic region
Authors: Etemadfard Hossein , Mashhadi Hossainali Masoud
Published: November 2015

Due to significant energy resources in polar regions, they have emerged as strategic parts of the world. Consequently, various researches have been funded in order to study these areas in further details. This research intends to improve the accuracy of spherical harmonic (SH)‐based Global Ionospheric Models (GIMs) by reconstructing a new map of ionosphere in the Arctic region. For this purpose, the spatiospectral concentration is applied to optimize the base functions. It is carried out using the Slepian theory which was developed by Simons. Here the new base functions and the corresponding coefficients are derived from the SH models for the polar regions. Then, VTEC (vertical total electron content) is reconstructed using Slepian functions and the new coefficients. Reconstructed VTECs and the VTECs derived from SH models are compared to the estimates of this parameter, which are directly derived from dual‐frequency GPS measurements. Three International Global Navigation Satellite Systems Service stations located in the northern polar region have been used for this purpose. The starting and ending day of year of adopted GPS data are 69 and 83, respectively, (totally 15 successive days) of the year 2013. According to the obtained results, on average, application of Slepian theory can improve accuracy of the GIM by 1 to 2 total electron content unit (TECU) (1 TECU = 1016 el m−2) in the Arctic region.
Doppler effects on periodicities in Saturn's magnetosphere
Authors: Carbary J. F.
Published: November 2015

The magnetosphere of Saturn exhibits a wide variety of periodic phenomena in magnetic fields, charged particles, and radio emissions. The periodicities are observed from a moving spacecraft, so an issue arises about the periodicities being influenced by the Doppler effects. Doppler effects can be investigated using models of the periodicities and then flying the spacecraft through the model, effectively measuring any Doppler phenomena with the simulation. Using 200 days of typical elliptical orbits from the Cassini mission at Saturn, three models were tested: an azimuthal wave (or “searchlight”) model, a radial wave (or “pond ripple”) model, and a model of an outwardly traveling spiral wave. The azimuthal wave model produced virtually no Doppler effects in the periodicities because its wave vector is nearly perpendicular to the spacecraft trajectory. The radial wave model generated strong Doppler effects of an upshifted and a downshifted signal (a dual period) on either side of the true period, because the wave vector is either parallel or antiparallel to the spacecraft trajectory. Being intermediate to the searchlight and radial waves, the spiral wave produced Doppler effects but only for low wave speeds (<10 RS/h). For higher wave speeds the Doppler effects were not as clear. The Doppler effects can be mitigated by employing only observations beyond ~15 RS where the spacecraft speed is low compared to the wave speed. The observed periodicities over the same 200 day interval do not show evidence of Doppler effects but generally display a single feature at the expected ~10.7 h period.
Link Between Foot Pain Severity and Prevalence of Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Awale Arunima , Dufour Alyssa B. , Katz Patricia , Menz Hylton B. , Hannan Marian T.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Associations between pain and depression are well known, yet foot pain, common in populations, has been understudied. This cross‐sectional study examined foot pain and severity of foot pain with depressive symptoms in adults.

Methods

Framingham Foot Study (2002–2008) participants completed questionnaires that included questions about foot pain (yes/no; none, mild, moderate, or severe pain) and the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (scores ≥16 indicated depressive symptoms). Age and body mass index (BMI) were also assessed. Sex‐specific logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for associations of foot pain with depressive symptoms, adjusting for age and BMI. In a subset, further models adjusted for leg pain, back pain, or other joint pain.

Results

Of 1,464 men and 1,857 women, the mean ± SD age was 66 ± 10 years. Depressive symptoms were reported in 21% of men and 27% of women. Compared to those with no foot pain and independent of age and BMI, both men and women with moderate foot pain had approximately a 2‐fold increased odds of depressive symptoms (men with severe foot pain OR of 4 [95% CI 2.26–8.48], women with severe foot pain OR of 3 [95% CI 2.02–4.68]). Considering other pain regions attenuated ORs, but the pattern of results remained unchanged.

Conclusion

Even after we adjusted for age, BMI, and other regions of pain, those reporting worse foot pain were more likely to report depressive symptoms. These findings suggest that foot pain may be a part of a broader pain spectrum, with an impact beyond localized pain and discomfort.
Safety of Abatacept in Rheumatoid Arthritis With Serologic Evidence of Past or Present Hepatitis B Virus Infection
Authors: Padovan Melissa , Filippini Matteo , Tincani Angela , Lanciano Elisabetta , Bruschi Eleonora , Epis Oscar , Garau Pietro , Mathieu Alessandro , Celletti Eleonora , Giani Leopoldo , Tomietto Paola , Atzeni Fabiola , Sarzi Puttini Piercarlo , Zuliani Francesca , De Vita Salvatore , Trotta Francesco , Grilli Anastasio , Puoti Massimo , Govoni Marcello
Published: November 2015

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with concomitant hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection represents a therapeutic challenge due to the risk of HBV reactivation under immunosuppressive treatment. To date there are few data coming from anecdotal case reports that concern HBV reactivation following treatment with abatacept. This observational retrospective study was aimed to assess the safety profile of abatacept in this particular clinical setting.

Methods

Eleven Italian rheumatologic centers provided data from patients with RA and positive HBV serology treated with intravenous abatacept. HBV markers and clinical and laboratory data were checked at followup visits every 3 months.

Results

In total, 72 patients were included in the study: 47 inactive carriers, 21 occult carriers, and 4 chronic active carriers for HBV. At baseline all of the patients had normal liver function tests and low or undetectable HBV DNA levels, except for those with chronic active hepatitis. Thirteen patients received prophylaxis with lamivudine, and 4 received treatment with adefovir or tenofovir. At the end of the 24‐month followup period, 49 patients were being treated. Data from 316 followup visits showed that abatacept was safe. No patients experienced reactivation of hepatitis B. Treatment withdrawals (23 patients) were due to lack of efficacy, subject decision/lost at followup, or adverse events not related to HBV infection.

Conclusion

Our study provides reassuring data about the safety profile of abatacept in RA with concomitant HBV infection without universal antiviral prophylaxis. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results.
Structure of the Dioxygenase AsqJ: Mechanistic Insights into a One‐Pot Multistep Quinolone Antibiotic Biosynthesis
Authors: Bräuer Alois , Beck Philipp , Hintermann Lukas , Groll Michael
Published: November 2015

Multienzymatic cascades are responsible for the biosynthesis of natural products and represent a source of inspiration for synthetic chemists. The FeII/α‐ketoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase AsqJ from Aspergillus nidulans is outstanding because it stereoselectively catalyzes both a ferryl‐induced desaturation reaction and epoxidation on a benzodiazepinedione. Interestingly, the enzymatically formed spiro epoxide spring‐loads the 6,7‐bicyclic skeleton for non‐enzymatic rearrangement into the 6,6‐bicyclic scaffold of the quinolone alkaloid 4′‐methoxyviridicatin. Herein, we report different crystal structures of the protein in the absence and presence of synthesized substrates, surrogates, and intermediates that mimic the various stages of the reaction cycle of this exceptional dioxygenase.
Production of RANKL by Memory B Cells: A Link Between B Cells and Bone Erosion in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Meednu Nida , Zhang Hengwei , Owen Teresa , Sun Wen , Wang Victor , Cistrone Christopher , Rangel‐Moreno Javier , Xing Lianping , Anolik Jennifer H.
Published: November 2015

Objective

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease that often leads to joint damage. The mechanisms of bone damage in RA are complex, involving activation of bone‐resorbing osteoclasts (OCs) by synoviocytes and Th17 cells. This study was undertaken to investigate whether B cells play a direct role in osteoclastogenesis through the production of RANKL, the essential cytokine for OC development.

Methods

RANKL production by total B cells or sorted B cell subpopulations in the peripheral blood and synovial tissue from healthy donors or anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide–positive patients with RA was examined by flow cytometry, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and immunohistochemical analysis. To define direct effects on osteoclastogenesis, B cells were cocultured with CD14+ monocytes, and OCs were enumerated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining.

Results

Healthy donor peripheral blood B cells were capable of expressing RANKL upon stimulation, with switched memory B cells (CD27+IgD−) having the highest propensity for RANKL production. Notably, switched memory B cells in the peripheral blood from RA patients expressed significantly more RANKL compared to healthy controls. In RA synovial fluid and tissue, memory B cells were enriched and spontaneously expressed RANKL, with some of these cells visualized adjacent to RANK+ OC precursors. Critically, B cells supported OC differentiation in vitro in a RANKL‐dependent manner, and the number of OCs was higher in cultures with RA B cells than in those derived from healthy controls.

Conclusion

These findings reveal the critical importance of B cells in bone homeostasis and their likely contribution to joint destruction in RA.
Antibodies to Porphyromonas gingivalis Indicate Interaction Between Oral Infection, Smoking, and Risk Genes in Rheumatoid Arthritis Etiology
Authors: Kharlamova Nastya , Jiang Xia , Sherina Natalia , Potempa Barbara , Israelsson Lena , Quirke Anne‐Marie , Eriksson Kaja , Yucel‐Lindberg Tülay , Venables Patrick J. , Potempa Jan , Alfredsson Lars , Lundberg Karin
Published: November 2015

Objective

To investigate the role of the periodontal pathogen Porphyromonas gingivalis in the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by analyzing the antibody response to the P gingivalis virulence factor arginine gingipain type B (RgpB) in relation to anti–citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPAs), smoking, and HLA–DRB1 shared epitope (SE) alleles in patients with periodontitis, patients with RA, and controls.

Methods

Anti‐RgpB IgG was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 65 periodontitis patients and 59 controls without periodontitis, and in 1,974 RA patients and 377 controls without RA from the Swedish population‐based case–control Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatoid Arthritis (EIRA) study. Autoantibody status, smoking habits, and genetic data were retrieved from the EIRA database. Differences in antibody levels were examined using the Mann‐Whitney U test. Unconditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for the association of anti‐RgpB IgG with different subsets of RA patients.

Results

Anti‐RgpB antibody levels were significantly elevated in periodontitis patients compared to controls without periodontitis, in RA patients compared to controls without RA, and in ACPA‐positive RA patients compared to ACPA‐negative RA patients. There was a significant association between anti‐RgpB IgG and RA (OR 2.96 [95% CI 2.00, 4.37]), which was even stronger than the association between smoking and RA (OR 1.37 [95% CI 1.07, 1.74]), and in ACPA‐positive RA there were interactions between anti‐RgpB antibodies and both smoking and the HLA–DRB1 SE.

Conclusion

Our study suggests that the previously reported link between periodontitis and RA could be accounted for by P gingivalis infection, and we conclude that P gingivalis is a credible candidate for triggering and/or driving autoimmunity and autoimmune disease in a subset of RA patients.
Solving Fixed Final Time Fractional Optimal Control Problems Using the Parametric Optimization Method
Authors: Idiri Ghania , Djennoune Saïd , Bettayeb Maamar
Published: November 2015

In this paper, the parametric optimization method is used to find optimal control laws for fractional systems. The proposed approach is based on the use for the fractional variational iteration method to convert the original optimal control problem into a nonlinear optimization one. The control variable is parameterized by unknown parameters to be determined, then its expression is substituted into the system state‐space model. The resulting fractional ordinary differential equations are solved by the fractional variational iteration method, which provides an approximate analytical expression of the closed‐form solution of the state equations. This solution is a function of time and the unknown parameters of the control law. By substituting this solution into the performance index, the original fractional optimal control problem reduces to a nonlinear optimization problem where the unknown parameters, introduced in the parameterization procedure, are the optimization variables. To solve the nonlinear optimization problem and find the optimal values of the control parameters, the Alienor global optimization method is used to achieve the global optimal values of the control law parameters. The proposed approach is illustrated by two application examples taken from the literature.
Pairwise likelihood inference for multivariate ordinal responses with applications to customer satisfaction
Authors: Kenne Pagui Euloge Clovis , Canale Antonio
Published: November 2015

A common practice in customer satisfaction analysis is to administer surveys where subjects are asked to express opinions on a number of statements, or satisfaction scales, by use of ordered categorical responses. Motivated by this application, we propose a pseudo‐likelihood approach to estimate the dependence structure among multivariate categorical variables. As it is commonly carried out in this area, we assume that the responses are related to latent continuous variables that are truncated to induce categorical responses. A Gaussian likelihood is assumed for the latent variables leading to the so‐called ordered probit model. Because the calculation of the exact likelihood is computationally demanding, we adopt an approximate solution based on pairwise likelihood. To asses the performance of the approach, simulation studies are conducted comparing the proposed method with standard likelihood methods. A parametric bootstrap approach to evaluate the variance of the maximum pairwise likelihood estimator is proposed and discussed. An application to customer satisfaction survey is performed showing the effectiveness of the approach in the presence of covariates and under other generalizations of the model. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Everybody Will Win, and All Must Be Hired: Comparing Additivity Neglect with the Nonselective Superiority Bias
Authors: Riege Anine H. , Teigen Karl Halvor
Published: November 2015

Two streams of research looking at referent‐dependent judgments from slightly different angles are subadditivity research and research on the nonselective superiority bias. Both biases violate basic formal constraints: the probabilities of a set of exclusive events cannot add up to more than 100%, and a set of attractive candidates cannot all be rated as superior to the group mean. We examine in three experiments how these two biases are related, by asking the same participants to perform both kinds of tasks on the same material. Both biases appear to be widespread, even for sets where all alternatives are presented together, but they differ in the way they are affected by response format and experimental setup. Thus, presenting participants with an unbiased set of ratings will reduce but not normalize their probability estimates of the same alternatives; while presenting them with an unbiased (additive) set of probabilities will make most alternatives appear inferior to the group mean, inverting the superiority bias. Self‐reports reveal that additivity neglect and the nonselective superiority bias can be based on two main response‐strategies: (i) considering each alternative independently or (ii) comparing alternatives, while neglecting their complementarity. In both cases, assessments will be the outcome of a compromise between the perceived “absolute” merits of each alternative, its standing relative to referents, and properties of the response scale. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Construction of photodynamic‐effect immunofluorescence probes by a complex of quantum dots, immunoglobulin G and chlorin e6 and their application in HepG2 cell killing
Authors: Yan Zheng‐Yu , Wang Li‐Li , Fei Meng‐Ying , Liu Xin‐Ying , Su Yi‐Long , Du Qing‐Qing , Wu Sheng‐Mei
Published: November 2015

In this study, tri‐functional immunofluorescent probes (Ce6–IgG–QDs) based on covalent combinations of quantum dots (QDs), immunoglobulin G (IgG) and chlorin e6 (Ce6) were developed and their photodynamic ability to induce the death of cancer cells was demonstrated. Strategically, one type of second‐generation photosensitizer, Ce6, was first coupled with anti‐IgG antibody using the EDC/NHS cross‐linking method to construct the photosensitive immunoconjugate Ce6–IgG. Then, a complex of Ce6–IgG–QDs immunofluorescent probes was obtained in succession by covalently coupling Ce6–IgG to water soluble CdTe QDs. The as‐manufactured Ce6–IgG–QDs maintained the bio‐activities of both the antigen–antibody‐based tumour targeting effects of IgG and the photodynamic‐related anticancer activities of Ce6. By way of polyclonal antibody interaction with rabbit anti‐human epidermal growth factor receptor (anti‐EGFR antibody, N‐terminus), Ce6–IgG–QDs were labelled indirectly onto the surface of human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells in cell recognition and killing experiments. The results indicated that the Ce6–IgG–QDs probes have excellent tumour cell selectivity and higher photosensitivity in photodynamic therapy (PDT) compared with Ce6 alone, due to their antibody‐based specific recognition and location of HepG2 cells and the photodynamic effects of Ce6 killed cells based on efficient fluorescence resonance energy transfer between QDs and Ce6. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
ChemInform Abstract: Discovery of Novel Delafossite‐Type Compounds Composed of Copper(I) Lithium Titanium with Photocatalytic Activity for H2 Evolution under Visible Light.
Authors: Kato Hideki , Fujisawa Tsuyoshi , Kobayashi Makoto , Kakihana Masato
Published: November 2015

New delafossite‐type 3R‐ and 2H‐Cu(Li1/3Ti2/3)O2 are prepared by heat treatment of mixtures of Cu2O and Li4Ti5O12 in the presence of CuCl as a flux (quartz ampule, 873—973 K, 5—40 h).
ChemInform Abstract: An Oxofluoride Catalyst Comprised of Transition Metals and a Metalloid for Application in Water Oxidation.
Authors: Svengren Henrik , Hu Shichao , Athanassiadis Ioannis , Laine Tanja M. , Johnsson Mats
Published: November 2015

Both single crystals and ground powder of the solid solution (CoxNi1‐x) 3Sb4O6F6 exhibit catalytic activity for water oxidation, chemical resistance to wear after repeated in situ tests, and a mechanical hardness of 2.86 GPa using Vickers indentation test on single crystals.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Haloetherifications Catalyzed by 1,1′‐Bi‐2‐naphthol (BINOL) Phosphates: From Symmetrical Alkenediols to Simple Alkenols.
Authors: Mueller Christian H. , Roesner Christian , Hennecke Ulrich
Published: November 2015

Optimized conditions are developed to permit the haloetherification of symmetrical (Z)‐ and (E)‐alkenediols using N‐halopyrrolidinones or NBS as halogen source and BINOL‐derived phosphates as catalyst.
ChemInform Abstract: Asymmetric Dearomatization of 1‐Aminonaphthalene Derivatives Through C—C Bond Formation with Electron‐Rich Heterocycles as Nucleophiles.
Authors: Baba Takafumi , Oka Junko , Noguchi Keiichi , Tanaka Ken
Published: November 2015

The gold catalyzed asymmetric intramolecular C—C bond forming reaction of 1‐aminonaphthalene derivatives provides access to pentacyclic heterocycles with low to moderate enantioselectivities.
ChemInform Abstract: Enantioselective Hydroalkynylation of Non‐Polar Carbon—Carbon Double Bonds: Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Addition Reaction of Terminal Alkyne C—H Bonds to Substituted Norbornadienes.
Authors: Yang Qingjing , Choy Pui Ying , Fan Baomin , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: November 2015

The hydroalkynylation of azanorbornadienes catalyzed by an iridium system is reported for the first time.
ChemInform Abstract: Alkylation of Amines with Alcohols and Amines by a Single Catalyst under Mild Conditions.
Authors: Zou Qingzhu , Wang Chao , Smith Jen , Xue Dong , Xiao Jianliang
Published: November 2015

Aryl amines and aryldiamines as well as primary and secondary acyclic and cyclic amines are N‐alkylated with benzylic, primary and secondary alkyl alcohols including methanol.
ChemInform Abstract: Palladium(II)‐Catalyzed meta‐C—H Olefination: Constructing Multisubstituted Arenes Through Homo‐Diolefination and Sequential Hetero‐Diolefination.
Authors: Bera Milan , Maji Arun , Sahoo Santosh K. , Maiti Debabrata
Published: November 2015

Using an o‐cyanophenoxy group as directing group benzylsulfonic acid esters are olefinated in meta‐position by terminal and internal olefins.
ChemInform Abstract: A Safe and Scalable Synthesis of 2‐Hydroxy‐3‐alkoxypropionates by Epoxide Ring Opening.
Authors: Waring Michael J. , Bennett Stuart N. L. , Campbell Leonie , Hallam Stephen , Martin Nathaniel G. , Tickner Christopher
Published: November 2015

Primary, secondary, and tertiary alcohol nucleophiles are employed in the magnesium triflate catalyzed ring‐opening of epoxide (I) to form the title products in moderate yields.
ChemInform Abstract: A General Direct Arylation of Polyfluoroarenes with Heteroaryl and Aryl Chlorides Catalyzed by Palladium Indolylphosphine Complexes
Authors: Yuen On Ying , Charoensak Mueangkaew , So Chau Ming , Kuhakarn Chutima , Kwong Fuk Yee
Published: November 2015

under mild reaction conditions and a catalyst loading down to 1 mol% Pd
ChemInform Abstract: Copper‐Catalyzed C‐2 Arylation or Vinylation of Indole Derivatives with Iodonium Salts.
Authors: Liu Chuan , Zhang Wei , Dai Li‐Xin , You Shu‐Li
Published: November 2015

Diaryliodonium salts are described as efficient reagents for the copper catalyzed 3‐arylation of 3‐functionalized indoles.