bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Análisis de la capacidad de innovación escolar desde la perspectiva del profesorado de educación secundaria. La escuela como organización que aprende
Authors: Gil López Alfonso Jesús , Antelm Lanzat Ana María , Cacheiro González María Luz
Published: June 2018

Se ha señalado que la capacidad de innovación de una organización está relacionada con su cultura y con el clima de aprendizaje. Las organizaciones que aprenden gozan de un tipo de acción abierta al cambio y a la innovación. Por ello se ha indicado que estas se constituyen en modelos adecuados para los centros de enseñanza. Este trabajo tiene como objetivo analizar el impacto de la cultura y la estructura de aprendizaje —dos características clave de las organizaciones docentes— en la capacidad de innovación de los centros educativos. Se lleva a cabo un estudio cuantitativo. Se confecciona un cuestionario ad hoc a través del cual se recoge información sobre las características relacionadas con los procesos de innovación en una muestra de 221 profesores de educación secundaria y bachillerato de 17 centros educativos de la provincia de Valencia. Los resultados confirman las hipótesis de que la cultura y la estructura de aprendizaje inciden en la capacidad de innovación de los centros de enseñanza. Para el desarrollo de la capacidad de innovación se proponen organizaciones escolares con estructuras flexibles que permitan afrontar un currículo abierto y comprometido con el cambio.
Management: Designing a Meaningful Reference and Instruction Internship: The MLIS Student Perspective
Authors: Lewey Tanner D. , Moody-Goo Hannah
Published: June 2018

Many libraries offer graduate-student internships, and many librarians have written about them as the worthwhile opportunities they are. Less frequently do we hear about these valuable experiences from the perspective of interns themselves. In this column, interns Tanner Lewey and Hannah Moody-Goo share their insights about what makes for a solid reference and instruction internship. They recommend the inclusion of four straightforward components to make an internship experience meaningful, not only for the graduate student, but for all parties involved. Lewey and Moody-Goo also suggest that taking this approach can make for a lasting contribution to the LIS profession as a whole.—Editor
Library, Library, Make Me a Match: Impact of Form-Based Readers’ Advisory on Academic Library Use and Student Leisure Reading
Authors: Sievert Kaia , Fick Amber , Adamski Becky , Merrill Ashley , LeMay Danika
Published: June 2018

Staff from the Access and Information Services (AIS) department at the University of Minnesota Libraries developed several readers’ advisory services to promote student engagement. One project was a Book Matchmaking service, for which users completed a web form and were given reading suggestions owned by the libraries. A brief survey was distributed to users of the service during the fall of 2016 to assess impact. The resulting data made a strong argument for further readers’ advisory activities in academic libraries, as libraries and users benefit equally. Participating in the service encouraged positive engagement with the library and encouraged leisure reading.
Book Review: Teaching Information Literacy through Short Stories
Authors: Antell Karen
Published: June 2018

The ACRL Framework for Information Literacy for Higher Education, adopted in 2016, “encourages information literacy librarians to be imaginative and innovative in implementing the Framework in their institutions” (ACRL Framework, appendix 1). In this spirit, authors Brier and Lebbin have collected eighteen very short stories—typically one to three pages in length—whose themes raise questions concerning the nature of authority, the process of searching, and the creation and value of information. Following each story, the authors add discussion questions designed to initiate philosophical conversations among librarians, instructors, and students about significant topics in information literacy.
Book Review: The Definitive Shakespeare Companion: Overviews, Documents, and Analysis
Authors: Dettman Dave
Published: June 2018

This multivolume work is an updated version of The Greenwood Companion to Shakespeare: A Comprehensive Guide for Students (Greenwood, 2005), also edited by Rosenblum. Overviews and the History Plays (vol. 1), The Comedies (vol. 2), The Tragedies (vol. 3), and The Romances and Poetry (vol. 4) make up the set. At 1,987 pages, the updated version is 523 pages longer that its predecessor, with the number of contributors having grown from forty to sixty-two. Six new essays bring the total number to eighty-three. The additions include five- to ten-page overviews in each of the four volumes, a nineteen-page essay by Rosenblum titled “The Authorship Questions,” and a second six-page overview in volume 4 introducing the longer poems. The additional content in many entries reflects scholarship published between 2005 and the publication of the new set, but other books and articles not cited in 2005 but published before that date make up a portion of the newly consulted sources. A comparison of entries in the old and the new reveal major additions to some entries (the entry for Hamlet is considerably longer and cites twenty-six sources, while the 2005 entry cites eleven) and minor additions and changes in word choice in others.
(Dis)obedience in U.S. American young adults: A new way to describe authority relationships
Authors: Pozzi Maura , Quartiroli Alessandro , Alfieri Sara , Fattori Francesco , Pistoni Carlo
Published: June 2018

The present research aims to investigate the psychosocial phenomena of obedience and disobedience in young adults residing in the United States, as a replication of a previous study by Pozzi, Fattori, Bocchiaro, and Alfieri (2014). We utilize social representation theory as a means to better understand and define (dis)obedience, a behavioral dimension of the concept of authority. The analysis was conducted using a concurrent mixed methods design. One hundred and fifty-one participants completed a self-report online questionnaire. The results indicate that participants see both obedience and disobedience as related to an authority. Obedience was mostly perceived as an ability to be responsive to laws, social norms, or physical authorities, as well as a positive social object. Disobedience, instead, was defined as a failure of a negative line of conduct. These results differ from previous research, contributing meaningfully and pragmatically to the theoretical debate on (dis)obedience. Theoretical and practical implications of these findings are discussed.
WHY VETERINARIANS SHOULD UNDERSTAND ANIMAL BEHAVIOR
Authors: VUČINIĆ Marijana , NENADOVIĆ Katarina , KOVAČ Dunja , JANKOVIĆ Ljiljana
Published: June 2018

Behavior is the fastest way of animal adaptation to changes that occur in itsorganism or in its habitat. This is a visible feature of animals. Therefore, veterinarianscan use knowledge about animal behavior in many branches of veterinary practice andveterinary science. Knowledge of animal behavior can also be helpful in diagnosticsin veterinary practice. In addition, knowledge of animal behavior can be applied inall animal treatment procedures, as well as in their restraint, animal examination,animal learning and training, animal tracking, feeding, reproduction and many otheractivities. Accommodation systems and all kinds of enrichment of living conditionsare part of applied animal behavior science. Veterinarians must know how to preventbehavioral disorders and pathological forms of animal behavior, but also how totreat them. They also need to know how to apply knowledge about animal behaviorto protect animal welfare. Applied animal behavior science can be applied to controlgame animals and pests in a more humane way as well as in conservation of species.There are many other examples of application of animal behavioral knowledge inveterinary practice, as it is presented in this paper.
Active position of the country in the world market of agrarian products as an indicator of the underdevelopment level of its economy
Authors: Fedosieieva Hanna
Published: June 2018

The article examines the role of countries in the development of the world market of agrarian products. At the same time, the world production and exports of agrarian products are considered not only in terms of countries, but also in terms of the most consumed species. The main tendencies of international trade of agrarian products are described. At the same time, we discuss only those agrarian products which are raw materials or have undergone the primary processing. The author of the research wants to confirm or refute the existing opinion that the active position of the country in the world agrarian market is a kind of evidence of the underdevelopment level of its economy.
Rethinking the tools of the RNA world
Authors: Crisp Antony , Carell Thomas
Published: June 2018

An artificially evolved ribozyme can catalyse the synthesis of RNA by using trinucleotide triphosphates as building blocks.
Drinking water and rural schools in the Western Amazon: an environmental intervention study
Authors: Ribeiro Maura Regina , de Abreu Luiz Carlos , Laporta Gabriel Zorello
Published: June 2018

Background

Although water and sanitation are considered human rights, worldwide approximately three of 10 people (2.1 billion) do not have access to safe drinking water. In 2016, 5.6 million students were enrolled in the 34% of Brazilian schools located in rural areas, but only 72% had a public water supply network. The objective was to evaluate effectiveness of environmental intervention for water treatment in rural schools of the Western Amazonia, and determine the efficacy of water treatment using a simplified chlorinator on potability standards for turbidity, fecal coliforms and Escherichia coli.

Methods

A simplified chlorinator was installed for treatment of potable water in 20 public schools in the rural area of Rio Branco municipality, Acre state, Brazil.

Results

Before the intervention, 20% (n = 4), 100% (n = 20) and 70% (n = 14) of schools had water that failed to meet potability standards for turbidity, fecal coliforms and E. coli, respectively. However, after intervention, 70% (p = 0.68), 75% (p < 0.001) and 100% (p < 0.001) of schools complied with potability standards.

Discussion

This intervention considerably improved schools’ water quality, thus decreasing children’s health vulnerability due to inadequate water. Ancillary activities including training, educational lectures, installation of equipment, supply of materials and supplies (65% calcium hypochlorite and reagents) were considered fundamental to achieving success full outcomes. Installation of a simplified chlorinator in rural schools of the Western Amazon is therefore proposed as a social technology aiming at social inclusion, as well as economic and environmental sustainability.
Synergistic and antagonistic effects of immunomodulatory drugs on the action of antifungals againstCandida glabrataandSaccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Tome Miha , Zupan Jure , Tomičić Zorica , Matos Tadeja , Raspor Peter
Published: June 2018

Candidemia and other forms of invasive fungal infections caused byCandida glabrataand to a lesser extentSaccharomyces cerevisiaeare a serious health problem, especially if their steadily rising resistance to the limited range of antifungal drugs is taken into consideration. Various drug combinations are an attractive solution to the resistance problem, and some drug combinations are already common in the clinical environment due to the nature of diseases or therapies. We tested a few of the common antifungal-immunomodulatory drug combinations and evaluated their effect on selected strains ofC. glabrataandS. cerevisiae. The combinations were performed using the checkerboard microdilution assay and interpreted using the Loewe additivity model and a model based on the Bliss independence criterion. A synergistic interaction was confirmed between calcineurin inhibitors (Fk506 and cyclosporine A) and antifungals (fluconazole, itraconazole, and amphotericin B). A new antagonistic interaction between mycophenolic acid (MPA) and azole antifungals was discovered in non-resistant strains. A possible mechanism that explains this is induction of the Cdr1 efflux pump by MPA inC. glabrataATCC 2001. The Pdr1 regulatory cascade plays a role in overall resistance to fluconazole, but it is not essential for the antagonistic interaction. This was confirmed by the Cgpdr1Δ mutant still displaying the antagonistic interaction between the drugs, although at lower concentrations of fluconazole. This antagonism calls into question the use of simultaneous therapy with MPA and azoles in the clinical environment.
Epidemiology ofHaemophilus parasuisisolates from pigs in China using serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility, biofilm formation and ERIC-PCR genotyping
Authors: Zhao Yongda , Wang Qin , Li Jie , Lin Xiaohuan , Huang Xianhui , Fang Binghu
Published: June 2018

Background

Haemophilus parasuisis a commensal organism of the upper respiratory tract of healthy pigs and causes high morbidity and mortality in piglets. The aim of this study was to investigate the epidemiology ofH. parasuisin China from 2014 to 2017.

Methods

We characterized 143H. parasuisisolates by serotyping, antimicrobial susceptibility, biofilm formation and with enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus-polymerase chain reaction (ERIC-PCR) assays.

Results

Serotyping revealed serovar 5 as the most prevalent (26.6%) followed by serovars 4 (22.4%), 7 (9.1 %), 13 (6.3%), 12 (5.6 %), and non-typeable (8.4%). In a panel of 23 antimicrobials, the minimum inhibitory concentration 50% (MIC50) were in the range of 0.25–16 μg/mL and MIC90were 2–>512 μg/mL. A total of 99 isolates ofH. parasuis(69.2%) were able to form biofilms and 59.6% (59/99) performed weak biofilm-forming ability. ERIC-PCR revealed a very heterogeneous pattern with 87 clusters.

Discussion

TheseH. parasuisisolates showed a high serovar and genotypic lineage diversity, different abilities to form biofilms and a high degree of genetic diversity. Biofilm formation was related to antimicrobial susceptibility but there were no statistically significant associations between the antimicrobial susceptibility and either the serovars or the ERIC-PCR clusters. This study showed a high prevalence of high-MICH. parasuisstrains and suggests the need for a continuous surveillance of clinical isolates ofH. parasuis.
Transcriptional regulation of metabolism in disease: From transcription factors to epigenetics
Authors: Hawkins Liam J. , Al-attar Rasha , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: June 2018

Every cell in an individual has largely the same genomic sequence and yet cells in different tissues can present widely different phenotypes. This variation arises because each cell expresses a specific subset of genomic instructions. Control over which instructions, or genes, are expressed is largely controlled by transcriptional regulatory pathways. Each cell must assimilate a huge amount of environmental input, and thus it is of no surprise that transcription is regulated by many intertwining mechanisms. This large regulatory landscape means there are ample possibilities for problems to arise, which in a medical context means the development of disease states. Metabolism within the cell, and more broadly, affects and is affected by transcriptional regulation. Metabolism can therefore contribute to improper transcriptional programming, or pathogenic metabolism can be the result of transcriptional dysregulation. Here, we discuss the established and emerging mechanisms for controling transcription and how they affect metabolism in the context of pathogenesis. Cis- and trans-regulatory elements, microRNA and epigenetic mechanisms such as DNA and histone methylation, all have input into what genes are transcribed. Each has also been implicated in diseases such as metabolic syndrome, various forms of diabetes, and cancer. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of these areas and highlight some natural models that may inspire future therapeutics.
Polyacrylates
Authors: Penzel Erich , Ballard Nicholas , Asua José M.
Published: June 2018

The article contains sections titled:1.Introduction2.Properties2.1.Polymer Solutions and Dispersions2.1.1.Polymer Solutions2.1.2.Polymer Dispersions2.2.Properties of the Polymers3.Raw Materials4.Production4.1.Emulsion Polymerization4.1.1.Starting Materials4.1.2.Production Processes4.2.Solution Polymerization4.3.Elimination of Residual Monomers5.Uses5.1.Paints and Coatings5.2.Paper Industry5.3.Adhesives and Sealing Compounds5.4.Textile Industry5.5.Leather Industry5.6.Miscellaneous Uses6.Toxicology and Environmental Aspects
The fusion pore, 60 years after the first cartoon
Authors: Sharma Satyan , Lindau Manfred
Published: June 2018

Neurotransmitter release occurs in the form of quantal events by fusion of secretory vesicles with the plasma membrane, and begins with the formation of a fusion pore that has a conductance similar to that of a large ion channel or gap junction. In this review, we propose mechanisms of fusion pore formation and discuss their implications for fusion pore structure and function. Accumulating evidence indicates a direct role of soluble N‐ethylmaleimide‐sensitive‐factor attachment receptor proteins in the opening of fusion pores. Fusion pores are likely neither protein channels nor purely lipid, but are of proteolipidic composition. Future perspectives to gain better insight into the molecular structure of fusion pores are discussed.
Electrically Controllable Molecularization of Terahertz Meta‐Atoms
Authors: Jung Hyunseung , Koo Jaemok , Heo Eunah , Cho Boeun , In Chihun , Lee Wonwoo , Jo Hyunwoo , Cho Jeong Ho , Choi Hyunyong , Kang Moon Sung , Lee Hojin
Published: June 2018

Active control of metamaterial properties is critical for advanced terahertz (THz) applications. However, the tunability of THz properties, such as the resonance frequency and phase of the wave, remains challenging. Here, a new device design is provided for extensively tuning the resonance properties of THz metamaterials. Unlike previous approaches, the design is intended to control the electrical interconnections between the metallic unit structures of metamaterials. This strategy is referred to as the molecularization of the meta‐atoms and is accomplished by placing graphene bridges between the metallic unit structures whose conductivity is modulated by an electrolyte gating. Because of the scalable nature of the molecularization, the resonance frequency of the terahertz metamaterials can be tuned as a function of the number of meta‐atoms constituting a unit metamolecule. At the same time, the voltage‐controlled molecularization allows delicate control over the phase shift of the transmitted THz, without changing the high transmission of the materials significantly.
Microwave‐Assisted Ruthenium‐Catalysed ortho‐C−H Functionalization of N‐Benzoyl α‐Amino Ester Derivatives
Authors: Sharma Nandini , Bahadur Vijay , Sharma Upendra K. , Saha Debasmita , Li Zhenghua , Kumar Yogesh , Colaers Jona , Singh Brajendra K , Van der Eycken Erik V.
Published: June 2018

A microwave‐assisted highly efficient intermolecular C−H functionalization sequence has been developed to access substituted isoquinolones using α‐amino acid esters as a directing group. This methodology enables a wide range of N‐benzoyl α‐amino ester derivatives to react via a Ru‐catalysed C−H bond activation sequence, to form isoquinolones with moderate to excellent yields. As an additional advantage, our strategy proved to be widely applicable and also enabled the reaction of alkenes to provide access to alkenylated benzamides. The methodology was also extended towards the synthesis of isoquinoline alkaloids derivatives viz. oxyavicine and a dipeptide. The developed protocol is simple and cheap, avoids tedious workup procedures and works efficiently under MW irradiation.

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Metal‐Free Three‐Component Assembly of Fully Substituted 1,2,3‐Triazoles
Authors: Ahamad Shakir , Kumar Anuj , Kant Ruchir , Mohanan Kishor
Published: June 2018

A practical domino three‐component protocol involving aldehydes, amines, and α‐diazo‐β‐ketosulfones provides efficient access to fully substituted 1,2,3‐triazoles. The process proceeds through a tandem Schiff‐base formation and 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition to generate a key sulfonyltriazoline intermediate, which subsequently undergoes an oxidative aromatization with the aid of air or iodine. The three‐component protocol obviates the need of expensive metal catalysts, proceeds under mildly basic conditions, and tolerates a wide range of synthetically useful (hetero)aryl and aliphatic aldehydes, and functionalized amines.
Decreased Expression of Serine/Arginine‐Rich Splicing Factor 1 in T Cells From Patients With Active Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Accounts for Reduced Expression of RasGRP1 and DNA Methyltransferase 1
Authors: Kono Michihiro , Kurita Takashi , Yasuda Shinsuke , Kono Michihito , Fujieda Yuichiro , Bohgaki Toshiyuki , Katsuyama Takayuki , Tsokos George C. , Moulton Vaishali R. , Atsumi Tatsuya
Published: June 2018

Objective

T cells from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients have reduced protein levels of RasGRP1, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for Ras, and increased transcript of alternatively spliced (AS) forms lacking exon 11. Serine/arginine‐rich splicing factor 1 (SRSF1) binds pre–messenger RNA (pre‐mRNA) to regulate AS forms of several genes, including CD3ζ in SLE T cells. This study was undertaken to assess whether SRSF1 controls the expression of RasGRP1 in T cells from patients with SLE.

Methods

We studied T cells from 45 SLE patients and 18 healthy subjects. Expression levels of SRSF1, wild‐type (WT) RasGRP1, and DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT1) were assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Direct binding of SRSF1 to exon 11 of RasGRP1 mRNA was evaluated with an oligonucleotide–protein pulldown assay. Healthy T cells and SLE T cells were treated with SRSF1‐specific small interfering RNA or SRSF1 expression vector, respectively, and then evaluated for mRNA/protein expression.

Results

SRSF1 expression levels were significantly lower in T cells from SLE patients compared to those from healthy subjects, and correlated inversely with disease activity and positively with levels of RasGRP1‐WT and DNMT1. SRSF1 bound directly to exon 11 of RasGRP1 mRNA. Silencing of SRSF1 in human T cells led to increased ratios of RasGRP1‐AS to RasGRP1‐WT and decreased levels of RasGRP1 protein, whereas overexpression of SRSF1 in SLE T cells caused recovery of RasGRP1, which in turn induced DNMT1/interleukin‐2 expression.

Conclusion

SRSF1 controls the alternative splicing of RasGRP1 and subsequent protein expression. Our findings extend evidence that alternative splicing plays a central role in the aberrant T cell function in patients with SLE by controlling the expression of multiple genes.
On‐Surface Synthesis of Graphene Nanoribbons Catalyzed by Ni Atoms
Authors: Xing Shuya , Liu Bing , Wang Wenquan , Guo Jiandong , Wang Weihua
Published: June 2018

Nanometer‐wide graphene nanoribbons can be synthesized from halogen aromatics through multistep on‐surface reactions, but the catalytic role of extrinsic transition‐metal atoms in these reactions are still to be explored. Here by low‐temperature scanning tunneling microscopy, we investigated the on‐surface synthesis of graphene nanoribbons from 10,10′‐dibromo‐9,9′‐bianthryl precursors in the presence of Ni atoms. Ni atoms not only act as catalysts in debromination and lead to the formation of an organometallic intermediate at 300 K, but also prompt the fusion reaction between graphene nanoribbons at 673 K. Our work demonstrates a more efficient way to fabricate fused graphene nanoribbons.
Phase II study of carboplatin, pemetrexed, and bevacizumab in advanced nonsquamous non–small‐cell lung cancer
Authors: Laslett Nicole F. , Park SuJung , Masters Gregory A. , Biggs David D. , Schneider Charles J. , Misleh Jamal G. , Suppiah Kathir , Simpson Pamela S. , Grubbs Stephen , Wozniak Timothy F. , Guarino Michael
Published: June 2018

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death throughout the world. Despite new chemotherapeutic, immunomodulating and molecularly targeted agents, patients with locally advanced or metastatic disease still have a poor prognosis. This trial looked to combine antiangiogenic therapy with a first‐line cytotoxic chemotherapy doublet, hoping to extend median progression‐free survival (PFS) while minimizing toxicity in patients with advanced nonsquamous non–small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In this single institution, single‐arm study, 51 patients (age >18 yo) were followed from 2007 to 2012. Patients with stage IV nonsquamous NSCLC and patients with recurrent unresectable disease (nonradiation candidates) were eligible. Treatment consisted of carboplatin AUC 5 IV 30‐60 minutes, pemetrexed 500/mg2 IV 10 minutes, bevacizumab 15 mg/kg IV (90 minutes 1st dose, 60 minutes 2nd dose, 30 minutes subsequent doses). Treatment was administered every 21 days and planned for 6 cycles, in the absence of disease progression or unacceptable toxicities. Growth factor support was not permitted prophylactically but allowed for toxicities, as were dose reductions. Maintenance treatment for those with stable disease or better consisted of Bevacizumab 15 mg/kg every 3 weeks for up to 1 year. Between November 2007 and March 2012, 51 patients were followed in the phase II trial of carboplatin, pemetrexed, and bevacizumab. Patients were enrolled over a 24‐month period. After the end of treatment visits, subjects were followed at least every 3 months for survival data. The median follow‐up period was 49 weeks (6 weeks to 178), and the median number of treatment cycles was 6 (range, 1‐6). Among the 50 patients assessable for response, median overall survival was 49 weeks (95% CI, 0‐62.7) with median PFS of 28 weeks (95% CI, 0‐132.4). A complete or partial response was seen in 28 (59.5%) patients. Grade 3‐4 treatment‐related adverse events occurred in 9 (17.6%) of 51 patients; the most common were thrombocytopenia (4 [7.8%]) and neutropenia (3 [5.9%]). Three (5.8%) of 51 patients were discontinued because of treatment‐related adverse events (grade 3 diarrhea, thrombocytopenia, dehydration, fatigue, and grade 4 respiratory distress), and 1 patient (1.9%) was found to be ineligible due to anticoagulation use. A novel 3‐drug combination for advanced nonsquamous NSCLC shows promising efficacy with modest toxicity.
Electronic cigarette use patterns and reasons for use among smokers recently diagnosed with cancer
Authors: Kalkhoran Sara , Kruse Gina R. , Rigotti Nancy A. , Rabin Julia , Ostroff Jamie S. , Park Elyse R.
Published: June 2018

Many patients with cancer use electronic cigarettes (e‐cigarettes), yet little is known about patterns and reasons for use. Using cross‐sectional baseline data from a randomized controlled trial, we aimed to describe prevalence and correlates of e‐cigarette use, frequency of use, and reasons for use among smokers recently diagnosed with cancer. Participants (n = 302) included adults (age ≥18 years) recently diagnosed with varied cancer types who smoked ≥1 cigarette within the past 30‐d from two US academic medical centers. Participants reported ever and current e‐cigarette use, and current e‐cigarette users reported days of e‐cigarette use and the main reason for use. We compared current, former, and never e‐cigarette users by sociodemographics, cancer type, medical comorbidities, smoking behaviors, attitudes, and emotional symptoms, and described use among current e‐cigarette users. Of smokers recently diagnosed with cancer, 49% (n = 149) reported ever e‐cigarette use and 19% (n = 56) reported current use. Of current e‐cigarette users, 29% (n = 16) reported daily use. Current e‐cigarette users did not differ from former and never e‐cigarette users by cancer type, smoking behaviors, or emotional symptoms. Women were more likely to be current users than never users, and current e‐cigarette users had less education than former users. Most current e‐cigarette users reported using them to help quit smoking (75%). One in five smokers with cancer report current e‐cigarette use, but most are not using e‐cigarettes daily. The majority report using e‐cigarettes to quit smoking. E‐cigarette use by patients with cancer appears to reflect a desire to quit smoking.
Decreased oral Epstein‐Barr virus DNA loads in patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma in Southern China: A case‐control and a family‐based study
Authors: Xue Wen‐Qiong , He Yong‐Qiao , Liao Xiao‐Yu , Li Fang‐Fang , Xu Ya‐Fei , Xu Feng‐Hua , Li Xi‐Zhao , Feng Qi‐Sheng , Chen Li‐Zhen , Cao Su‐Mei , Liu Qing , Zeng Yi‐Xin , Jia Wei‐Hua
Published: June 2018

The link of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) has been established for decades. Although an abnormal high level of EBV sero‐antibody spectrum and cell‐free circulating EBV DNA loads were exhibited in NPC patients, oral EBV DNA loads, which are primarily responsible for the EBV transmission, has not been previously studied in NPC patients. We conducted an epidemiological study to measure the oral EBV loads, viral components, and the relationship with the serum antibody titers in a large case‐control population (968 cases and 1656 controls) and a family‐based population (91 cases and 165 unaffected family members). EBV DNA loads were detected by quantitative PCR approach targeting the BamHI‐W region. Although a large individualized variation existed, we still observed a decreased oral EBV DNA loads in the population of NPC patients compared to that of healthy controls (ORs were 1.00, 0.69, 0.62, 0.33 classified by the quartiles of viral loads, Ptrend < .001) and family members. In contrast, the elevated levels of oral EBV loads were present in asymptomatic males and elders, suggesting a different important source for EBV transmission. Notably, oral EBV loads were inversely associated with serum antibody titers of VCA‐IgA, EA‐IgA (All Ptrend < .001) in the cases but not in the controls. Our study provides the first epidemiological data of oral EBV loads and viral components in NPC patients and controls in the highest risk area of Southern China, indicating that NPC status is unlikely to be an important determinant of EBV transmission.
Increased risk of bone tumors after growth hormone treatment in childhood: A population‐based cohort study in France
Authors: Poidvin Amélie , Carel Jean‐Claude , Ecosse Emmanuel , Levy Dominique , Michon Jean , Coste Joël
Published: June 2018

The association between growth hormone (GH) treatment and cancer risk has not been thoroughly evaluated and there are questions about any increased risk of bone tumors. We examined cancer risk and especially bone tumor risk in a population‐based cohort study of 6874 patients treated with recombinant GH in France for isolated GH deficiency, short stature associated with low birth weight or length or idiopathic short stature. Adult mortality and morbidity data obtained from national databases and from questionnaires. Case ascertainment completeness was estimated with capture‐recapture methods. Standardized mortality and incidence ratios were calculated using national reference data. 111 875 person‐years of observation were analyzed and patients were followed for an average of 17.4 ± 5.3 years to a mean age of 28.4 ± 6.2 years. For cancer overall, mortality and incidence were not different from expected figures. Five patients developed bone tumors (chondrosarcoma, 1, Ewing sarcoma, 1, osteosarcoma, 3) of whom 3 died (Ewing sarcoma, 1, osteosarcoma, 2), whereas only 1.4 case and 0.6 deaths were expected: standardized mortality ratio, 5.0 and standardized incidence ratio from 3.5 to 3.8 accounting or not accounting for missed cases. Most patients received conventional doses of GH, although one patient with osteosarcoma had received high dose GH (60 μg/kg/d). This study confirms an increased risk of bone tumors but not overall cancer risk in subjects treated with GH in childhood for isolated GH deficiency or childhood short stature. Further work is needed to elucidate the mechanisms involved.
Enhanced Catalytic Activity of Oxygen‐Tethered IrIII NHC Complexes in Aqueous Transfer Hydrogenative Reductive Amination Reactions: Experimental Kinetic and Mechanistic Study
Authors: Özbozkurt İbrahim Kayahan , Gülcemal Derya , Günnaz Salih , Gökçe Aytaç Gürhan , Çetinkaya Bekir , Gülcemal Süleyman
Published: June 2018

The synthesis and characterization of seven new IrIII complexes containing o‐phenoxide or o‐naphthoxide chelated N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands is reported herein. The crystal structures of six of the complexes have been determined. These complexes efficiently catalyze the transfer hydrogenative reductive amination (RA) of carbonyls and amines in water. Amongst the complexes tested, the introduction of o‐naphthoxide on a nitrogen atom of imidazole based NHC ligand greatly increased the catalytic activity. The catalytic system has a broad substrate scope, which allows the synthesis of a variety of amines in excellent yields and with high turnover numbers up to 490 (for ketones) and 14800 (for aldehydes). The mechanism of aqueous RA reaction with an o‐aryloxide chelated NHC‐IrIII catalyst has been investigated by NMR spectroscopy and kinetic measurements. These studies suggest that the transfer hydrogenation (TH) is turnover‐limited by the hydride formation step. As a result of the 1H NMR studies, the higher catalytic activity of o‐naphthoxide chelated catalyst (3 g) over o‐phenoxide chelated one (3 b) can be attributed partly due to the faster formation of an iridium hydride, the key intermediate in the RA reactions.
Time Resolved in situ DXAFS Revealing Highly Active Species of PdO Nanoparticle Catalyst for CH4 Oxidation
Authors: Mahara Yuji , Murata Kazumasa , Ueda Kakuya , Ohyama Junya , Kato Kazuo , Satsuma Atsushi
Published: June 2018

The highly active species of Pd/Al2O3 catalysts for methane combustion was revealed by in situ time‐resolved dispersive X‐ray absorption fine structure (DXAFS) spectroscopy. By using CH4 as a reduction agent, PdO in Pd/Al2O3 is reduced in a 2‐step model involving Pd0 nucleation and growth of Pd0 domain in a PdO particle. Kinetic analysis of the 2‐step model reduction of PdO nanoparticles leads to a suggestion that partial formation of Pd0 in a PdO particle accelerates methane combustion.
Effect of Graphene Oxide Thin Film on Growth and Electrochemical Performance of Hierarchical Zinc Sulfide Nanoweb for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad F. , Mahmood‐Ul‐Hassan  , Razaq Aamir , Ashiq Muhammad N. , Kaneti Yusuf V. , Azhar Azhar A. , Yasmeen Farhat , Saleem Joya Khurrum , Abbass Shafqat
Published: June 2018

Surface morphology induced electrical conductivity and specific surface area of a material play a significant role to facilitate electrochemical behavior for supercapacitor application. Therefore, the synthesis step for controlling such parameters becomes very imperative and challenging. Herein, a ZnS nanoweb is deposited directly onto Ni foam with a pre‐deposited thin layer of hydrothermally prepared graphene oxide. The structure and surface morphology of the deposited ZnS is observed using XRD and SEM, respectively. The electrical conductivity of the graphene oxide supported ZnS nanoweb, determined using the four probes method, is 100.15 S cm−1. The specific surface area is 104.42 m2 g−1 as determined by BET measurements. Pseudocapacitive behavior is monitored by cyclic voltammetry, and the excellent specific capacity of 3052 Fg−1 has been found at a scan rate of 2 mV s−1, while it is 2400.30 Fg−1 according the galvanostatic charge‐discharge profile at a current density of 3 mA cm−2. Both values are significantly higher than those measured for bare GO or ZnS layers. The energy and power densities of GO supported ZnS nanoweb are determined in a three electrode setup, are 120 Wh Kg−1 at 3 mA cm−2 and 4407.73 Wkg−1, respectively. In a symmetric two electrode setup, an energy density of 20.29 Wh Kg−1 at 2 mA cm−2 is observed. Hence, both symmetric and asymmetric measurements suggest that GO supported ZnS nanoweb can be applied as a suitable electrode for supercapacitors.
Influence of phosphorus application and water deficit on the soil microbiota of N2‐fixing and non‐N‐fixing tree
Authors: Olatunji Olusanya A. , Luo Hongyan , Pan Kaiwen , Tariq Akash , Sun Xiaoming , Chen Wenkai , Wu Xiaogang , Zhang Lin , Xiong Qinli , Li Zilong , Song Dagang , Zhang Aiping , Sun Feng
Published: June 2018

Soil water content and phosphorus availability are important factors that are expected to shape soil microbiota. Although the impacts of water deficit (drought) on soil microbiota have been reasonably studied, microbial responses to P addition combined with soil water deficit have rarely been reported, especially in relation to the identity of aboveground tree species. This study was conducted to evaluate the main and interactive effects of drought and P addition on the soil protozoa, microbial communities as determined by phospholipids fatty acids (PLFAs) and enzyme activities in a soil vegetated with N2‐fixing or non‐N‐fixing tree species and in a non‐vegetated soil. The results indicated that the effects of drought, P addition, and their interaction on soil microbiota and chemical properties varied depending on the type of aboveground tree species. Drought significantly decreased the abundance of ciliates, amoebae, total protozoa, and most of the microbial community compared to the optimum water treatment, but the effect was more pronounced under non‐N‐fixers compared to N2‐fixers. P addition significantly increased the nitrate nitrogen (NO3−‐N) and dissolve organic nitrogen (DON) in drought treated soil as compared to the well‐watered counterpart, irrespective of the planting systems. The interaction of P with drought significantly increased the mean abundance of ciliates, flagellates, amoebae, and the total protozoa in soil vegetated with non‐N‐fixers and actinomycetesPLFAs, G+bacterialPLFAs, and total bacterialPLFAs in the soil vegetated with N2‐fixers. Our finding points to an essential role of P addition and N2‐fixing trees on soil microbiota under drought stress. This study suggests that the effects of P application depend on its interaction with drought and that drought had decreasing effects on the abundance of ciliates, flagellates, amoebae, total protozoa, and the soil microbial communities, but the extent of it effects varied with tree species.
Soils beneath different arctic shrubs have contrasting responses to a natural gradient in temperature
Authors: Zhao Qiong , Sundqvist Maja K. , Newman Gregory S. , Classen Aimée T.
Published: June 2018

Shrubs commonly form islands of fertility and are expanding their distribution and dominance in the arctic due to climate change, yet how soil properties may be influenced when different species of shrubs expand under warmer climates remains less explored. Important plant traits, such as their associated root community, are linked to functionally different and dominant shrub species in the arctic and these traits likely shape biogeochemical cycling in areas of shrub expansion. Using an elevational gradient as a proxy for warming, we explored how biochemical processes beneath two important arctic shrubs varied under warmer (low elevation) and cooler (high elevation) climates. Interestingly, the influence of elevation on biogeochemistry varied between the two shrubs. At the low elevation, Betula nana L., an ectomycorrhizal shrub, had high carbon (C) degrading enzyme activities, and relatively low potential net nitrogen (N) mineralization rates. Conversely, Empetrum nigrum ssp. hermaphroditum Hagerup, an ericoid mycorrhizal dwarf‐shrub, had higher enzyme activities and net N immobilization rates at the higher elevation. Further, E. nigrum ssp. hermpahroditum appeared to have a more closed C and nutrient cycle than B. nana—enzymes degrading C, N, and phosphorus were tightly correlated with each other and with total C and ammonium concentrations in the humus beneath E. nigrum ssp. hermaphroditum, but not beneath B. nana. Our results suggest differences in the warming responses of C and N cycling beneath shrub species across an arctic tundra landscape.
Content of phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, alophycocyanin and phycoerythrocyanin in some cyanobacterial strains: Applications
Authors: Basheva Diyana , Moten Dzhemal , Stoyanov Plamen , Belkinova Detelina , Mladenov Rumen , Teneva Ivanka
Published: June 2018

Cyanobacteria are unique prokaryotes, which are capable to perform oxygenic photosynthesis. Within these organisms, phycobilisomes (PBS) act as an antenna of the photosynthetic pigment apparatus. Phycobilisomes contain several phycobiliproteins (PBP): phycoerythrin (PE), phycocyanin (PC), allophycocyanin (APC) and phycoerythrocyanin (PEC). The application of phycobiliproteins in the biotechnology, food industry and medicine during the last years is rapidly increasing. The aim of our study was to assess the qualitative and quantitative content of phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, allophycocyanin and phycoerythrocyanin in 14 cyanobacterial strains kept in Plovdiv Algal Culture Collection (PACC) and 4 strains purchased from the Culture Collection of Autotrophic Organisms (CCALA). Our data demonstrated that three strains of Microcoleus autumnalis (PACC 5505, PACC 5522 and PACC 5527) have high potential to produce phycoerythrins (0.132, 0.201 and 0.136 mg/mL, respectively). Similarly, one Microcoleus autumnalis strain (PACC 5522) and one strain of Leptolyngbya boryana (CCALA 084) are suitable for biotechnological production of phycocyanins (0.051 and 0.264 mg/mL, respectively) as well as allophycocyanins (0.102 and 0.171 mg/mL, respectively). In addition, the data about the pigment content could be used as a biochemical marker for taxonomic purposes within the group.
Development of a novel in situ gelling skin dressing: Delivering high levels of dissolved oxygen at pH 5.5.
Authors: Moen Ingrid , Ugland Hege , Strömberg Niklas , Sjöström Eva , Karlson Anders , Ringstad Lovisa , Bysell Helena , Amiry‐Moghaddam Mahmood , Haglerød Camilla
Published: June 2018

Background and aims

Wound healing requires appropriate oxygen and pH levels. Oxygen therapy and pH‐modulating treatments have shown positive effects on wound healing. Thus, a dressing, which combines high levels of dissolved oxygen (DO) with the pH of intact skin, may improve wound healing. Our aims were to (1) formulate an in situ gelling dressing with high levels of DO and with the pH level of intact skin, (2) evaluate physical and chemical properties of the dressing, and (3) elucidate basic effects of elevated levels of DO on human skin cells in vitro.

Methods

A dressing was formulated with 15 to 16 wt% poloxamer 407, acetate buffer, and oxygenated water. Stability of pH and DO, rheology, and shelf life were analysed. Furthermore, in vitro studies of the effect of increased levels of DO were performed.

Results

An in situ gelling wound dressing, with a DO concentration ranging between 25 and 35 mg/L and a pH of 5.5, was formulated. The DO concentration was stable above 22 mg/L for at least 30 hours when applied on a surface at 35°C and covered for directed diffusion into the intended wound area. At storage, the dressing had stable pH for 3 months and stable DO concentration over 30 mg/L for 7 weeks. Increasing DO significantly enhanced intracellular ATP in human skin cells, without changing reactive oxygen species production, proliferation rate, or viability.

Conclusion

The developed dressing may facilitate wound healing by delivering controlled and stable oxygen levels, providing adjustable pH for optimized healing, and increasing intracellular ATP availability.
Association between high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion, age, and number and interval of smears in women in Araçatuba, Brazil
Authors: Xavier‐Júnior Jose Candido Caldeira , Camilo‐Júnior Deolino João , Gardini Ana Paula Hehnes Guedes do Amaral , D’ávilla Solange Correa Garcia Pires , Mattar Neivio José
Published: June 2018

More than half of patients were underscreened and the number of patients aged 20–24 years with high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesion was not irrelevant.

This article includes a Portuguese translation, available in the Supporting Information section.
Performance Curves And Evaluation
Authors: Price Benton C.
Published: June 2018

This article provides a simple and basic approach to the concept of pump curves. Pump terminology is explained. A pump curve is a graph showing the characteristics of a pump. The basic characteristics shown on the graph are capacity (flow rate), head, power (horsepower), and efficiency. It is important to show the interrelationship of these characteristics on the graph.
Floating Covers For Hydraulic Installations
Authors: Dial Howard S.
Published: June 2018

The use of weirs and charts are discussed as devices used for water measurement. Rectangular, trapezoidal, triangular and v‐notch weirs are discussed.
Reference Shelf
Authors: Geldreich E.E. , Taylor R.H. , Allen M.J.
Published: June 2018

This article was excerpted from AWWA 1974 WQTC papers. Discussed are AWWA standards for the disinfection of water mains and recommendations covering the areas of protection of new pipe sections at the construction site, restriction on the use of joint‐packing materials, preliminary flushing of pipe sections, pipe disinfection, and bacteriological testing for pipe disinfection.
Well Field Maintenance Avoids Crises
Authors: Eagon Herbert B.
Published: June 2018

Regular maintenance is essential to the operation of wells. Each well field management program should be tailored to its particular system and contain the following basic steps: establish a physical framework for the collection; organization and evaluation of important information; initiate a data collection and surveillance program; develop an operational control plan and develop long‐range plans; and finally, know the capabilities of your system and plan accordingly.
Cleaning Improves Capacity of Large Diameter Pipeline
Authors: Cooper R.E.
Published: June 2018

Problems of decreased water capacity were found in the Ontario Ministry of Environment's Lake Huron Water Supply System, which serves the city of London, Ontario. The pipe was installed in 1966 and by 1971 was operating at only 86% of capacity. Inspection of the exterior of the pipe showed no cause for this problem, so the interior of the pipe was inspected and a white slime‐like substance was found. Chemical analysis of the deposit showed that it possessed a high silica and alumina content. Now the problem was to remove the deposit, determine its cause, and prevent further build‐up. Several hypotheses were presented for the origin of the deposit, and several methods were tried to remove the substance from the pipe. The method which seemed to work was to redissolve the deposit by raising the pH of the water when temperatures exceeded 64 degrees F, a technique which was not economically feasible for a long period of time. The technique of “pigging” is now being used and further tests will be made to determine the effectiveness of this cleaning process.
Considerations When Purchasing New Meters
Authors: Harvat T.R.
Published: June 2018

When purchasing new meters there are several factors to consider before making a final decision. Get as many references as possible to help identify the best machine, consider repair costs, test sample meters for their resistance to freezing, and keep records of the problems of various meter manufacturers. Size and general appearance of the meter should be considered. Also check to see if there is any type of guarantee.
Valves — Part III The Selection of Butterfly Valves vs Gate Valves
Authors: Stravinski C.A.
Published: June 2018

When trying to select the correct valve to be used in a distribution system, a careful study must be made to determine the specific uses and locations for that valve so the correct type of valve will be installed. The pros and cons of butterfly and gate valves are presented.
Maintaining Telemetry Systems
Authors: Williams Lester
Published: June 2018

Guidelines to help minimize the cost of repair and down‐time of a telemetry system are presented.