bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weak mixing angle in the Thomson limit
Authors: Erler Jens , Ferro-Hernández Rodolfo
Published: April 2018

Abstract

We present a calculation of the weak mixing angle in the

$$ \overline{\mathrm{MS}} $$

M
S

¯

renormalization scheme which is relevant for experiments performed at very low energies or momentum transfers. We include higher orders in the perturbative QCD expansion, as well as updated phenomenological and theoretical input, and obtain the result

$$ { \sin}^2{\widehat{\theta}}_W(0)=0.23868(5)(2) $$

sin
2

θ
^

W

0

=
0.23868

5

2

for the reference values

$$ {\widehat{\alpha}}_s\left({M}_Z\right)=0.1182 $$

α
^

s

M
Z

=
0.1182

and

$$ {\widehat{m}}_c\left({\widehat{m}}_c\right)=1.272\ \mathrm{GeV} $$

m
^

c

m
^

c

=
1.272

GeV

. The first quoted error is from the current Standard Model evaluation of the mixing angle at the Z boson mass scale. The second error represents the theoretical and parametric uncertainties induced by the evolution to the Thomson limit and is discussed in detail.
Neutrino non-standard interactions and dark matter searches with multi-ton scale detectors
Authors: Sierra D. Aristizabal , Rojas N. , Tytgat M. H. G.
Published: April 2018

Abstract

Future dark matter (DM) direct detection searches will be subject to irreducible neutrino backgrounds that will challenge the identification of an actual WIMP signal in experiments without directionality sensitivity. We study the impact of neutrino-quark non-standard interactions (NSI) on this background, assuming the constraints from neutrino oscillations and the recent COHERENT experiment data, which are relevant for NSI mediated by light mediators,

$$ {m}_{\mathrm{med}}\lesssim \mathcal{O}\left(\mathrm{GeV}\right) $$

m

m
e
d

≲
O

GeV

. We calculate the expected number of neutrino-nucleus elastic scattering events in a Xe-based ton-size dark matter detector, including solar neutrino fluxes from the pp chain and CNO cycle as well as sub-GeV atmospheric fluxes and taking into account NSI effects in both propagation and detection. We find that sizable deviations from the standard model expectation are possible, but are more pronounced for flavor-diagonal couplings, in particular for electron neutrinos. We show that neutrino NSI can enhance or deplete the neutrino-nucleus event rate, which may impact DM searches in multi-ton detectors.
Nonlinear Predictive Models for Multiple Mediation Analysis: With an Application to Explore Ethnic Disparities in Anxiety and Depression Among Cancer Survivors
Authors: Yu Qingzhao , Medeiros Kaelen L. , Wu Xiaocheng , Jensen Roxanne E.
Published: April 2018

Mediation analysis allows the examination of effects of a third variable (mediator/confounder) in the causal pathway between an exposure and an outcome. The general multiple mediation analysis method (MMA), proposed by Yu et al., improves traditional methods (e.g., estimation of natural and controlled direct effects) to enable consideration of multiple mediators/confounders simultaneously and the use of linear and nonlinear predictive models for estimating mediation/confounding effects. Previous studies find that compared with non-Hispanic cancer survivors, Hispanic survivors are more likely to endure anxiety and depression after cancer diagnoses. In this paper, we applied MMA on MY-Health study to identify mediators/confounders and quantify the indirect effect of each identified mediator/confounder in explaining ethnic disparities in anxiety and depression among cancer survivors who enrolled in the study. We considered a number of socio-demographic variables, tumor characteristics, and treatment factors as potential mediators/confounders and found that most of the ethnic differences in anxiety or depression between Hispanic and non-Hispanic white cancer survivors were explained by younger diagnosis age, lower education level, lower proportions of employment, less likely of being born in the USA, less insurance, and less social support among Hispanic patients.
C.elegans-based screen identifies lysosome-damaging alkaloids that induce STAT3-dependent lysosomal cell death
Authors: Li Yang , Zhang Yu , Gan Qiwen , Xu Meng , Ding Xiao , Tang Guihua , Liang Jingjing , Liu Kai , Liu Xuezhao , Wang Xin , Guo Lingli , Gao Zhiyang , Hao Xiaojiang , Yang Chonglin
Published: April 2018

Lysosomes are degradation and signaling centers within the cell, and their dysfunction impairs a wide variety of cellular processes. To understand the cellular effect of lysosome damage, we screened natural small-molecule compounds that induce lysosomal abnormality using Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans) as a model system. A group of vobasinyl-ibogan type bisindole alkaloids (ervachinines A–D) were identified that caused lysosome enlargement in C. elegans macrophage-like cells. Intriguingly, these compounds triggered cell death in the germ line independently of the canonical apoptosis pathway. In mammalian cells, ervachinines A–D induced lysosomal enlargement and damage, leading to leakage of cathepsin proteases, inhibition of autophagosome degradation and necrotic cell death. Further analysis revealed that this ervachinine-induced lysosome damage and lysosomal cell death depended on STAT3 signaling, but not RIP1 or RIP3 signaling. These findings suggest that lysosome-damaging compounds are promising reagents for dissecting signaling mechanisms underlying lysosome homeostasis and lysosome-related human disorders.
Osmoflo's technology helps mitigate water shortage in Cape Town
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: April 2018

Containerised water treatment plants from global desalination company Osmoflo are helping to mitigate the shortage of potable water in Cape Town, South Africa, as this brief article reveals.
NIROBOX deployment continues to gain momentum worldwide
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: April 2018

Building on recent successes, Fluence Corp Ltd's smart packaged NIROBOX desalination system is now helping a company on an island located off the east coast of Africa to provide a quick and environment-friendly way of addressing water scarcity. In other news, the US-based provider of water and wastewater treatment systems reports that the global reach of this desalination technology continues to expand.
inge showcases major projects worldwide that rely on its ultrafiltration technology
Authors: Atkinson Simon
Published: April 2018

Here, inge GmbH, the German ultrafiltration technology company that is part of BASF SE, provides multiple examples of large-scale projects around the world that rely on its membrane technology. The summaries of the reference projects that are presented in this article are just a selection of the company's recent achievements.
Correlation of Hand Hygiene Compliance Measured by Direct Observation with Estimates Obtained from Product Usage
Authors: Branch-Elliman Westyn , Snyder Graham M. , King Aleah D. , Baldini Linda M. , Dooley Kaitlyn M. , Yassa David S. , Wright Sharon B.
Published: April 2018

Improving compliance with hand hygiene is a cornerstone of infection prevention. However, data regarding practical methods for monitoring compliance are limited. We found that product use metrics have a moderate correlation with direct observation in ward settings and limited correlation in intensive care units.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2018;39:746–749
THE NEW GENEALOGY OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM
Authors: Decosimo David
Published: April 2018

This article pursues an immanent critique of a scholarly movement and mood that I call “the new genealogy of religious freedom” and sketches an alternative proposal. The new genealogy of religious freedom claims that religious freedom is incoherent, systemically biased, oppressive, ideological—and necessarily so. Its critique deploys a methodology inherited from Nietzsche and targets a vision of religious freedom associated with “foundationalists” like Kant and Rawls. This article calls both the methodology and the vision into question. The version of genealogy that this movement promotes proves self-destructive and incoherent, veering toward nihilism and unable to account for its own status ascritique. Its attack on foundationalist religious freedom is effective, but it presupposes—and targets—conceptions of freedom, neutrality, and power that we need not endorse. For foundationalists and genealogists alike, these assumptions define religious freedom. This article rejects those assumptions and that vision of religious freedom. It sketches a pragmatist, dialectical vision of religious freedom rooted in alternate conceptions of power, freedom, and neutrality and a corresponding strategy for legally defining “religion,” inheriting the strengths of genealogy and foundationalism while avoiding their weaknesses.
The Role of the Subjective Importance of Smoking (SIMS) in Cessation and Abstinence
Authors: Rodriguez Daniel , Goulazian Tiffanie , Strasser Andrew A. , O'Loughlin Jennifer , Dugas Erika N. , Kuoiloi Chol , Hitsman Brian L. , Schnoll Robert
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Each year about two thirds of U.S. smokers make a quit attempt. Yet, less than 5% remain abstinent three months post-quit date. One factor that may affect abstinence is negative feelings about the self-associated with being a smoker (disequilibrium), particularly if smoking is important to the sense of self and one is trying to quit.

Aims: We evaluated a multivariate structural equation model proposing that smoking's subjective importance to a smoker would influence carbon monoxide verified smoking abstinence at 24 weeks (post-quit date). Further, we assessed whether the relation would be moderated by the smoker's experience of disequilibrium.

Methods: Participants were 440 regular smokers taking part in a clinical trial assessing the effectiveness of different durations of nicotine replacement therapy use. Participants completed the subjective importance of smoking survey at baseline and were assessed for carbon monoxide verified seven-day point prevalence abstinence at 24 weeks

Results: Using exploratory structural equation modelling, the subjective importance of smoking was associated with point prevalence abstinence at 24 weeks, but only for smokers with high disequilibrium.

Conclusions: The results of this study suggest that experiencing negative feelings about being a smoker could motivate smokers to remain abstinent, despite the importance of smoking to the smoker's sense of self.
Hardy-Type Inequalities for Fractional Powers of the Dunkl–Hermite Operator
Authors: Ciaurri Óscar , Roncal Luz , Thangavelu Sundaram
Published: April 2018

We prove Hardy-type inequalities for a fractional Dunkl–Hermite operator, which incidentally gives Hardy inequalities for the fractional harmonic oscillator as well. The idea is to useh-harmonic expansions to reduce the problem in the Dunkl–Hermite context to the Laguerre setting. Then, we push forward a technique based on a non-local ground representation, initially developed by Franket al. [‘Hardy–Lieb–Thirring inequalities for fractional Schrödinger operators,J. Amer. Math. Soc.21(2008), 925–950’] in the Euclidean setting, to obtain a Hardy inequality for the fractional-type Laguerre operator. The above-mentioned method is shown to be adaptable to an abstract setting, whenever there is a ‘good’ spectral theorem and an integral representation for the fractional operators involved.
Globalizing the Supply Chain: Firm and Industrial Support for US Trade Agreements
Authors: Osgood Iain
Published: April 2018

From 1960 to 2000, manufacturing supply chains became global. To what extent has this growth in offshore outsourcing and foreign direct investment affected industrial attitudes toward trade liberalization? Using data on public positions of US firms and trade associations on all free trade agreements since 1990, I show that foreign direct investment (FDI) and input sourcing are theprimarydrivers of support for trade liberalization. Direct import competition and export opportunities play a secondary role in shaping support for free trade agreements. This work therefore adds to the literature on the politics of globalization by providing systematic evidence of a link between global supply chains and industrial preferences, and by developing a new model of the determinants of industrial attitudes toward trade.
Molecular identification of zoonotic hookworm species in dog faeces from Tanzania
Authors: Merino-Tejedor A. , Nejsum P. , Mkupasi E.M. , Johansen M.V. , Olsen Annette
Published: April 2018

The presence and distribution of various species of canine hookworms in Africa are poorly known. The main objective of this study, therefore, was to identify the hookworm species present in canine faecal samples from Morogoro, Tanzania, using molecular techniques. Faecal samples from 160 local dogs were collected and hookworm positive samples processed to recover larvae for further molecular characterization. DNA was extracted from pools of larvae from individual samples (n = 66), which were analysed subsequently using two different molecular approaches, polymerase chain reaction-linked restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and species-specific PCR coupled with Sanger sequencing. The PCR-RFLP technique detected only the presence of the ubiquitousAncylostoma caninumin the 66 samples. However, by species-specific PCR coupled with Sanger sequencing we identified ten samples withA. braziliense, two withUncinaria stenocephalaand five withA. ceylanicum. Thus, all four known species of canine hookworms were identified in Morogoro, Tanzania. To our knowledge this is the first report of the detection of the presence ofU. stenocephalaandA. ceylanicumin Africa using molecular techniques. In addition to their veterinary importance, canine hookworms have zoonotic potential and are of public health concern.
Co-infection with filarial nematodes inSapajus macrocephalusandCebus albifrons(Primates: Cebidae) from the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Conga D.F. , Mayor P. , Furtado A.P. , Giese E.G. , Santos J.N.
Published: April 2018

Dipetalonema caudispina(Molin, 1858) andD. gracile(Rudolphi, 1809) (Filarioidea: Onchocercidae) are two of six known species of filarial nematodes that parasitize Neotropical non-human primates. Adult filariae were collected from the thoracic and abdominal cavities of 38 of 44 specimens ofSapajus macrocephalus(Spix, 1823) and nine of ten specimens ofCebus albifrons(Humboldt, 1812) (Primates: Cebidae), distributed in the Yavarí-Mirín river basin and used locally for human consumption. Co-occurrence ofD. caudispinaandD. gracileis reported for the first time, with a prevalence of 18.5% (10 of 54 hosts examined). Our finding ofD. caudispinaandD. gracilein cebids from the Peruvian Amazon constitutes a new geographical record for both filariae, two new host records forD. caudispina,and the first report ofD. gracileinS. macrocephalus. In addition, we provide morphometric data forD. caudispina, complementing the original description, as well as scanning electron microscopy details on the structure of the area rugosa and number of caudal papillae in males.
Development ofPhasmarhabditis hermaphrodita(and members of thePhasmarhabditisgenus) as new genetic model nematodes to study the genetic basis of parasitism
Authors: Andrus P. , Rae R.
Published: April 2018

The genetic mechanisms of how free-living nematodes evolved into parasites are unknown. Current genetic model nematodes (e.g.Caenorhabditis elegans) are not well suited to provide the answer, and mammalian parasites are expensive and logistically difficult to maintain. Here we propose the terrestrial gastropod parasitePhasmarhabditis hermaphroditaas a new alternative to study the evolution of parasitism, and outline the methodology of how to keepP. hermaphroditain the lab for genetic experiments. We show thatP. hermaphrodita(and several otherPhasmarhabditisspecies) are easy to isolate and identify from slugs and snails from around the UK. We outline how to make isogenic lines using ‘semi-natural’ conditions to reduce in-lab evolution, and how to optimize growth using nematode growth media (NGM) agar and naturally isolated bacteria. We show thatP. hermaphroditais amenable to forward genetics and thatuncandsmamutants can be generated using formaldehyde mutagenesis. We also detail the procedures needed to carry out genetic crosses. Furthermore, we show natural variation within ourPhasmarhabditiscollection, with isolates displaying differences in survival when exposed to high temperatures and pH, which facilitates micro and macro evolutionary studies. In summary, we believe that this genetically amenable parasite that shares many attributes withC. elegansas well as being in Clade 5, which contains many animal, plant and arthropod parasites, could be an excellent model to understand the genetic basis of parasitism in the Nematoda.
Nutritional strategies to prevent gastrointestinal toxicity during pelvic radiotherapy
Authors: Wedlake Linda J.
Published: April 2018

Radiotherapy-induced damage to non-cancerous gastrointestinal mucosa has effects on secretory and absorptive functions and can interfere with normal gastrointestinal physiology. Nutrient absorption and digestion may be compromised. Dietary manipulation is an attractive option with sound rationale for intervention. The aim of this review was to synthesise published evidence for the use of elemental formulae, low or modified fat diets, fibre, lactose restriction and probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics to protect the bowel from gastrointestinal side effects during long-course, radical pelvic radiotherapy. Thirty original studies (recruitingn3197 patients) were identified comprising twenty-four randomised controlled trials, four cohort studies and two comparator trials. Endpoints varied and included symptom scales (Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire, Common Technology Criteria for Adverse Events, Radiation Therapy Oncology Group) and Bristol Stool Scale. Dietary and supplement interventions were employed with many studies using a combination of interventions. Evidence from RCT was weak for elemental, low or modified fat and low-lactose interventions and modestly positive for the manipulation of fibre during radiotherapy. Evidence for probiotics as prophylactic interventional agents was more promising with a number of trials reporting positive results but strength and strains of interventions vary, as do methodologies and endpoints making it difficult to arrive at firm conclusions with several studies lacking statistical power. This consolidated review concludes that there is insufficient high-grade evidence to recommend nutritional intervention during pelvic radiotherapy. Total replacement of diet with elemental formula could be effective in severe toxicity but this is unproven. Probiotics offer promise but cannot be introduced into clinical practice without rigorous safety analysis, not least in immunocompromised patients.
The participatory dimension of individual responsibility
Authors: Bonicalzi Sofia , Gallotti Mattia
Published: April 2018

Collaborativism is the view that moral reasoning is better when it is socially embedded. We propose that, when people take part in dialogic exchanges, they align in ways that open up novel avenues for sharing values and rationality criteria and, therefore, for exercising responsible agency. The hypothesis that collaborative interactions unfold through the alignment of minds and bodies helps articulate Doris's participatory approach to morality.
Predicting sign learning in hearing adults: The role of perceptual-motor (and phonological?) processes
Authors: MARTINEZ DAVID , SINGLETON JENNY L.
Published: April 2018

The present study aimed to identify predictors of one aspect of sign language acquisition, sign learning, in hearing nonsigners. Candidate predictors were selected based on the theory that the observed relationship between phonological short-term memory and L2 lexical learning is due in part to common perceptual-motor processes. Hearing nonsigning adults completed a sign learning task, three assessments of short-term memory for movements (movement STM; two of which used sign-like stimuli), and two visuospatial STM tasks. The final sample included 103 adults, ranging between 18 and 33 years of age. All predictors were moderately to strongly correlated with the sign learning task and to each other. A series of regression analyses revealed that both movement and visuospatial STM uniquely contributed to the prediction of sign learning. These results suggest that perceptual-motor processes play a significant role in sign learning and raise questions about the role of phonological processing.
Accuracy of composite diagnostic standards for pneumococcal pneumonia in vaccine trials
Authors: Suzuki M. , Katoh S. , Miyahara R. , Ariyoshi K. , Morimoto K.
Published: April 2018

Because of a lack of gold standard diagnostics, a combination of multiple diagnostic tests, or composite diagnostic standard, has been used to measure pneumococcal pneumonia (PP) in pneumococcal vaccine trials. We estimated the accuracy of composite diagnostic standards for PP used in previous randomised controlled trials by simple formulas. A systematic literature review identified five eligible trials and all trials had used different combinations of diagnostic tests for PP. The estimated values of sensitivity and minimum specificity of composite diagnostic standards varied substantially between trials: 48.4% to 98.1% and 71.0% to 97.3%, respectively. Without standardizing the outcome measurements, pneumococcal vaccine efficacy estimates against PP are not comparable between trials and their pooled estimates are biased.
Unconscious Pleasures and Pains: A Problem for Attitudinal Theories?
Authors: FELDMAN FRED
Published: April 2018

Ben Bramble, Dan Haybron and others have endorsed the idea that there are unconscious, or unfelt, pleasures and pains. These would be sensory experiences that are genuine pleasures or pains, but experiences of which the subject is unaware. The idea that there are such things is worthy of attention in its own right; but I am interested in this alleged phenomenon for a further reason. I am attracted to an attitudinal theory of sensory pleasure and pain. Bramble has claimed that the existence of unconscious pleasures and pains reveals that attitudinal theories cannot be true. Chris Heathwood has offered a reply on behalf of attitudinalism. I think a better reply can be provided. In this article I explain why an attitudinal theory of pleasure and pain is consistent with whatever is plausible in the ‘unconscious pleasure and pain’ phenomenon.
Developing a neurobehavioral animal model of poverty: Drawing cross-species connections between environments of scarcity-adversity, parenting quality, and infant outcome
Authors: Perry Rosemarie E. , Finegood Eric D. , Braren Stephen H. , Dejoseph Meriah L. , Putrino David F. , Wilson Donald A. , Sullivan Regina M. , Raver C. Cybele , Blair Clancy ,   Family Life Project Key Investigators
Published: April 2018

Children reared in impoverished environments are at risk for enduring psychological and physical health problems. Mechanisms by which poverty affects development, however, remain unclear. To explore one potential mechanism of poverty's impact on social–emotional and cognitive development, an experimental examination of a rodent model of scarcity-adversity was conducted and compared to results from a longitudinal study of human infants and families followed from birth (N = 1,292) who faced high levels of poverty-related scarcity-adversity. Cross-species results supported the hypothesis that altered caregiving is one pathway by which poverty adversely impacts development. Rodent mothers assigned to the scarcity-adversity condition exhibited decreased sensitive parenting and increased negative parenting relative to mothers assigned to the control condition. Furthermore, scarcity-adversity reared pups exhibited decreased developmental competence as indicated by disrupted nipple attachment, distress vocalization when in physical contact with an anesthetized mother, and reduced preference for maternal odor with corresponding changes in brain activation. Human results indicated that scarcity-adversity was inversely correlated with sensitive parenting and positively correlated with negative parenting, and that parenting fully mediated the association of poverty-related risk with infant indicators of developmental competence. Findings are discussed from the perspective of the usefulness of bidirectional–translational research to inform interventions for at-risk families.
Enduring effect of childhood maltreatment on cortisol and heart rate responses to stress: The moderating role of severity of experiences
Authors: Ouellet-Morin Isabelle , Robitaille Marie-Pier , Langevin Stéphanie , Cantave Christina , Brendgen Mara , Lupien Sonia J.
Published: April 2018

There is a relative consensus about the detrimental impact of childhood maltreatment on later mental health problems and behavioral difficulties. Prior research suggests that neurophysiological stress mechanisms may partly mediate this association. However, inconsistent findings regarding hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathetic responses to stress complicate this investigation. Furthermore, the concordance in these two stress systems is not well understood. We tested whether the severity of maltreatment affected the association between maltreatment and cortisol and heart rate (HR) stress responses and the symmetry of these responses. Participants were 155 males (56 maltreated and 99 controls) aged 18 to 35 years. Cortisol and HR were measured in response to the Trier Social Stress Test. Childhood maltreatment, sociodemographic factors, and health-related factors were measured using self-reported questionnaires. Maltreated participants had higher cortisol responses to stress in comparison to controls. However, a shift from moderate to lower to higher cortisol responses was noted as the severity of the experiences increased. Participants exposed to more experiences of maltreatment also showed a greater symmetry between cortisol and HR stress responses. Our findings provide further support for persistent dysregulation of the HPA axis following childhood maltreatment, of which the expression and symmetry with the sympathetic system may change according to the severity of experiences.
The relationship between seasonal water level fluctuation and habitat availability for wintering waterbirds at Shengjin Lake, China
Authors: LI CHUNLIN , YANG YANG , WANG ZHEN , YANG LING , ZHANG DONGMEI , ZHOU LIZHI
Published: April 2018

Conservation plans for waterbirds in periodically flooded wetlands should be based on a deep understanding of the relationship between habitat availability and the hydrological regime. Using waterbird surveys and remotely sensed images, we investigated how habitat availability for wintering waterbirds was regulated by seasonal water level fluctuation at Shengjin Lake in the lower Yangtze River floodplain, which is an important wintering area along the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. We recorded 52 waterbird species during three field surveys, and categorised them into four groups based on their foraging preferences: grassland, mudflats, shallow water, or deep water. Habitat availability for the four groups was significantly influenced by fluctuations in water level. Habitat for deep-water feeders dominated the lake throughout the year, despite contracting during the wintering season. Water recession during winter exposed more diverse riparian habitats that showed high spatial heterogeneity at the landscape level, with the Upper Lake providing the most suitable habitats for the most diverse and abundant waterbirds. It is worth noting that the water level was regulated highly for aquaculture during the early wintering period, impeding access to suitable habitats for the early-arriving waterbirds that foraged in the riparian mudflats and grassland. Furthermore, rapid water recession from the opening of a sluice gate allowed the exposed moist mudflats to dry up quickly, reducing its suitability for shorebirds and cranes. For effective wintering waterbird conservation in the ephemeral lacustrine wetlands in the Yangtze River floodplain, we suggest stepwise water recession plans, together with the recovery of the aquatic vegetation community and reduction in high-density aquaculture, to synchronise the exposure of foraging habitats with the migration phenology of different waterbird species.
AN INFRASPECIFIC TAXONOMIC REVISION OF BEGONIA MICRANTHERA (BEGONIACEAE)
Authors: Tebbitt M. C. , Andrada A. R. , Bulacio E. , Parada G. A. , Ayarde H.
Published: April 2018

Two new infraspecific taxa of Begonia micranthera Griseb. are described. Begonia micranthera subsp. albonervia Tebbitt is described and illustrated as a new subspecies native to the Andes of southern Bolivia (Chuquisaca, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz Departments). Begonia micranthera subsp. micranthera var. flava Andrada & Bulacio is newly described from Argentina's Jujuy Province. Begonia micranthera var. rhacophylla Irmsch. is raised to subspecies and newly recorded from Bolivia. Begonia micranthera var. hieronymi (Lindau) L.B.Sm. & B.G.Schub. is recognised as B. micranthera subsp. rhacophylla var. hieronymi (Lindau) L.B.Sm. & B.G.Schub. The type collection of Begonia micranthera var. foliosa L.B.Sm. & B.G.Schub. is newly recognised as a hybrid between B. micranthera Griseb. subsp. micranthera and B. micranthera subsp. rhacophylla (Irmsch.) Tebbitt. Begonia micranthera var. fimbriata L.B.Sm. & B.G.Schub. is newly synonymised with B. cinnabarina Hook. Begonia cinnabarina is newly recognised from Argentina and is lectotypified. Begonia micranthera subsp. micranthera var. nana L.B.Sm. & B.G.Schub. is also lectotypified. A key, diagnoses and illustrations are provided for all the recognised infraspecific taxa of Begonia micranthera.
Intakes of magnesium, calcium and risk of fatty liver disease and prediabetes
Authors: Li Wenshuai , Zhu Xiangzhu , Song Yiqing , Fan Lei , Wu Lijun , Kabagambe Edmond K , Hou Lifang , Shrubsole Martha J , Liu Jie , Dai Qi
Published: April 2018

Objective

Obesity and insulin resistance play important roles in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Mg intake is linked to a reduced risk of metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance; people with NAFLD or alcoholic liver disease are at high risk of Mg deficiency. The present study aimed to investigate whether Mg and Ca intakes were associated with risk of fatty liver disease and prediabetes by alcohol drinking status.

Design

We analysed the association between Ca or Mg intake and fatty liver disease, prediabetes or both prediabetes and fatty liver disease in cross-sectional analyses.

Setting

Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) follow-up cohort of US adults.

Subjects

Nationally representative sample of US adults in NHANES (n 13 489).

Results

After adjusting for potential confounders, Mg intake was associated with approximately 30 % reduced odds of fatty liver disease and prediabetes, comparing the highest intake quartile v. the lowest. Mg intake may only be related to reduced odds of fatty liver disease and prediabetes in those whose Ca intake is less than 1200 mg/d. Mg intake may also only be associated with reduced odds of fatty liver disease among alcohol drinkers.

Conclusions

The study suggests that high intake of Mg may be associated with reduced risks of fatty liver disease and prediabetes. Further large studies, particularly prospective cohort studies, are warranted to confirm the findings.
Widening socio-economic disparities in early childhood obesity in Los Angeles County after the Great Recession
Authors: Nobari Tabashir Z , Whaley Shannon E , Crespi Catherine M , Prelip Michael L , Wang May C
Published: April 2018

Objective

While economic crises can increase socio-economic disparities in health, little is known about the impact of the 2008–09 Great Recession on obesity prevalence among children, especially low-income children. The present study examined whether socio-economic disparities in obesity among children of pre-school age participating in a federal nutrition assistance programme have changed since the recession.

Design

A pre–post observational study using administrative data of pre-school-aged programme participants from 2003 to 2014. Logistic regression was used to examine whether the relationship between obesity prevalence (BMI≥95th percentile of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s growth charts) and three measures of socio-economic status (household income, household educational attainment, neighbourhood-level median household income) changed after the recession by examining the interaction between each socio-economic status measure and a 5-year time-period variable (2003–07 v. 2010–14), stratified by child’s age and adjusted for child’s sociodemographic characteristics.

Setting

Los Angeles County, California, USA.

Subjects

Children aged 2–4 years (n 1 637 788) participating in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

Results

The magnitude of the association of household income and household education with obesity increased after 2008–09 among 3- and 4-year-olds and 2- and 3-year-olds, respectively. However, the magnitude of the association of neighbourhood-level median household income with obesity did not change after 2008–09.

Conclusions

Disparities in obesity by household-level socio-economic status widened after the recession, while disparities by neighbourhood-level socio-economic status remained the same. The widening household-level socio-economic disparities suggest that obesity prevention efforts should target the most vulnerable low-income children.
Rare earth indates (RE: La–Yb): influence of the synthesis route and heat treatment on the crystal structure
Authors: Shukla Rakesh , Grover Vinita , Srinivasu Kancharlapalli , Paul Barnita , Roy Anushree , Gupta Ruma , Tyagi Avesh Kumar
Published: April 2018

The study stresses the profound dependence of crystalline phase in REInO3 on the synthesis route and temperature of annealing. Highlight of the study is isolation of SmInO3 in both orthorhombic and hexagonal polymorphs.
Systematic assessment of surface functionality on nanoscale patterns for topographic contact guidance of cells
Authors: Li Binbin , Agarwal Vipul , Ho Dominic , Vede Jean-Pierre , Iyer K. Swaminathan
Published: April 2018

The ability of surface topography to influence cellular response has been widely accepted, leading the way towards the development of potential neural prosthetics.
GO-guided direct growth of highly oriented metal–organic framework nanosheet membranes for H2/CO2 separation
Authors: Li Yujia , Liu Haiou , Wang Huanting , Qiu Jieshan , Zhang Xiongfu
Published: April 2018

A highly oriented 2D nanosheet metal–organic framework membrane is fabricated by a direct growth strategy.
Modified nucleoside triphosphates exist in mammals
Authors: Jiang Han-Peng , Xiong Jun , Liu Fei-Long , Ma Cheng-Jie , Tang Xing-Lin , Yuan Bi-Feng , Feng Yu-Qi
Published: April 2018

By establishing a chemical labeling method in combination with liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis, we reported the widespread existence of various modified nucleoside triphosphates in eukaryotes.
Yb3+ can be much better than Dy3+: SMM properties and controllable self-assembly of novel lanthanide 3,5-dinitrobenzoate-acetylacetonate complexes
Authors: Gavrikov Andrey V. , Efimov Nikolay N. , Ilyukhin Andrey B. , Dobrokhotova Zhanna V. , Novotortsev Vladimir M.
Published: April 2018

Novel Ln 3,5-dinitrobenzoates were studied; the Δeff value of the Yb derivative is the highest known one for binuclear complexes of this Ln.
Two photochromic iodoargentate hybrids with adjustable photoresponsive mechanism
Authors: Li Xia , Hao Pengfei , Shen Junju , Fu Yunlong
Published: April 2018

Two photochromic hybrid iodoargentates with adjustable photoresponsive mechanism have been synthesized and exhibit fast response and wide color range.
The facile synthesis of a single atom-dispersed silver-modified ultrathin g-C3N4 hybrid for the enhanced visible-light photocatalytic degradation of sulfamethazine with peroxymonosulfate
Authors: Wang Fengliang , Wang Yingfei , Li Yanyan , Cui Xuhui , Zhang Qianxin , Xie Zhijie , Liu Haijin , Feng Yiping , Lv Wenying , Liu Guoguang
Published: April 2018

A single-atom dispersed Ag loaded ultrathin g-C3N4 hybrid was prepared and used as a visible light-driven photocatalyst for SMT degradation in the presence of PMS.
Positively charged residues at the channel mouth boost single-file water flow
Authors: Horner Andreas , Siligan Christine , Cornean Alex , Pohl Peter
Published: April 2018

Positively charged residues in the vicinity of the channel entrance or exit accelerate single-file water flow.
Cu(ii)-Based binuclear compound for the application of photosensitive electronic devices
Authors: Dutta Basudeb , Dey Arka , Naskar Kaushik , Ahmed Faruk , Purkait Rakesh , Islam Sakhiul , Ghosh Soumen , Sinha Chittaranjan , Ray Partha Pratim , Mir Mohammad Hedayetullah
Published: April 2018

Binuclear Cu(ii)-acetylenedicarboxylate assembled through extensive hydrogen bonding and C–H⋯π interactions to make 3D supramolecular aggregate behaves as light sensing electronic device.
Aggregation behaviour of biocompatible choline carboxylate ionic liquids and their interactions with biomolecules through experimental and theoretical investigations
Authors: Panda Somenath , Kundu Kaushik , Basaiahgari Anusha , Singh Akhil Pratap , Senapati Sanjib , Gardas Ramesh L.
Published: April 2018

The self-assembly of long-chain choline carboxylates accompanied by their interaction with BSA protein were investigated with focus on environmental sustainability.
Mesoporous polymeric microspheres with high affinity for phosphorylated biomolecules
Authors: Shinde Sudhirkumar , Selvalatchmanan Jayashree , Incel Anil , Akhoundian Maedeh , Bendt Anne K. , Torta Federico
Published: April 2018

Bis-imidazolium functionalized mesoporous microspheres selectively extract phosphorylated peptides/lipids from biofluids.
Influence of the nanofiber chemistry and orientation of biodegradable poly(butylene succinate)-based scaffolds on osteoblast differentiation for bone tissue regeneration
Authors: Cristofaro Francesco , Gigli Matteo , Bloise Nora , Chen Honglin , Bruni Giovanna , Munari Andrea , Moroni Lorenzo , Lotti Nadia , Visai Livia
Published: April 2018

Ether-linkages present in copolymer macromolecular chains and nanofiber topography exert a synergistic effect in improving osteoblast adhesion and differentiation.
A refractory metamaterial absorber for ultra-broadband, omnidirectional and polarization-independent absorption in the UV-NIR spectrum
Authors: Huang Yijia , Liu Ling , Pu Mingbo , Li Xiong , Ma Xiaoliang , Luo Xiangang
Published: April 2018

In this paper, efficient ultra-broadband absorption from ultraviolet (UV) to near infrared (NIR) is achieved using a metamaterial perfect absorber (MPA) with refractory constituents.
New Y2LuCaAl2SiO12:Ln (Ln = Ce3+, Eu3+, and Tb3+) phosphors for white LED applications
Authors: Hakeem D. A. , Pi J. W. , Kim S. W. , Park K.
Published: April 2018

New garnet structure Y2−xLuCaGaAl2SiO12:xLn (Ln = Ce3+, Eu3+, and Tb3+) phosphors were explored for white light-emitting diode and solid-state lighting applications.
Metal–organic framework nanoparticles for magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Peller Michael , Böll Konstantin , Zimpel Andreas , Wuttke Stefan
Published: April 2018

This review aims to integrate the state-of-the-art of MOF nanoparticles and their use in MRI. It gives an overview of the work done so far, focusing especially on the clinical applicability. Furthermore, it summarises the different factors for MR signal formation mechanisms important for the development of MR active nanoparticles and provides suggestions for a better comparison between different studies.
Ultrathin palladium nanosheets with selectively controlled surface facets
Authors: Xu Dongdong , Liu Xiaoli , Lv Hao , Liu Ying , Zhao Shulin , Han Min , Bao Jianchun , He Jie , Liu Ben
Published: April 2018

Ultrathin two-dimensional palladium nanosheets with selectively exposed surface facets were controllably synthesized by designed functional surfactants.
The vertical force in the solar neighbourhood using red clump stars in TGAS and RAVE
Authors: Hagen Jorrit H. J. , Helmi Amina
Published: April 2018

Aims. We investigate the kinematics of red clump (RC) stars in the solar neighbourhood by combining data from Tycho-Gaia Astrometric Solution (TGAS) and Radial Velocity Experiment (RAVE) to constrain the local dark matter density.

Methods. After calibrating the absolute magnitude of RC stars, we characterized their velocity distribution over a radial distance range of 6−10 kpc and up to 1.5 kpc away from the Galactic plane. We then applied the axisymmetric Jeans equations on subsets representing the thin and thick disks to determine the (local) distribution of mass near the disk of our Galaxy.

Results. Our kinematic maps are well behaved, permitting a straightforward local determination of the vertical force, which we find to be Kzthin = − 2454 ± 619 (km s−1)2 kpc−1 and Kzthick = − 2141 ± 774 (km s−1)2 kpc−1 at 1.5 kpc away from the Galactic plane for the thin and thick disk samples and for thin and thick disk scale heights of 0.28 kpc and 1.12 kpc, respectively. These measurements can be translated into a local dark matter density ρDM ~ 0.018 ± 0.002 M⊙ pc−3. The systematic error on this estimate is much larger than the quoted statistical error, since even a 10% difference in the scale height of the thin disk leads to a 30% change in the value of ρDM and a nearly equally good fit to the data.
Does Knowing Someone with Breast Cancer Influence the Prevalence of Adherence to Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening?
Authors: Brum Igor Vilela , Rodrigues Tamara Cristina Gomes Ferraz , Laporte Estela Gelain Junges , Aarestrup Fernando Monteiro , Vitral Geraldo Sergio Farinazzo , Laporte Bruno Eduardo Pereira
Published: April 2018

Objective To evaluate the prevalence of adherence to screening methods for breast and cervical cancer in patients attended at a university hospital and to investigate whether knowing someone with breast cancer, moreover belonging to the patient's family, affects the adherence to the screening recommendations.

Methods This was a cross-sectional and quantitative study. A structured interview was applied to a sample of 820 women, between 20 and 69 years old, who attended a university hospital in the city of Juiz de for a, MG, Brazil. For the analysis, the chi-square test was used to assess possible associations between the variables, and the significance level was set at p-value ≤ 0.05 for a confidence interval (CI) of 95%.

Results More than 95.0% of the sample performed mammography and cervical cytology exam; 62.9% reported knowing someone who has or had breast cancer, and this group was more likely to perform breast self-examination (64.9%; odds ratio [OR] 1.5; 95% CI 1.12–2.00), clinical breast examination (91.5%; OR 2.11; 95% CI 1.37–3.36), breast ultrasound (32.9%; OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.30–2.51), and to have had an appointment with a breast specialist (28.5%; OR 1.98, 95% CI 1.38–2.82). Women with family history of breast cancer showed higher propensity to perform breast self-examination (71.0%; OR 1.53 95% CI 1.04–2.26).

Conclusion There was high adherence to the recommended screening practices; knowing someone with breast cancer might make women more sensitive to this issue as they were more likely to undergo methods which are not recommended for the screening of the general population, such as breast ultrasound and specialist consultation; family history is possibly an additional cause of concern.
Surgical Treatment of Posterior Circulation Aneurysms – Anatomical Study and Surgical Technique
Authors: Yamaki Vitor , Paschoal Eric , Teixeira Manoel , Figueiredo Eberval
Published: April 2018

Posterior circulation aneurysms represent 10–15% of intracranial aneurysms. The diagnosis is usually secondary to subarachnoid hemorrhage due to its initial asymptomatic presentation and higher risk of rupture compared with aneurysms in the anterior circulation. The surgical treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms is complex and challenging for neurosurgeons because of the particular anatomy of the posterior circulation with its close relation to the brainstem and cranial nerves and also because of the depth and narrowness of the surgical approach. Aneurysms from different locations have specific anatomical relationships and surgical approaches for better visualization and dissection. Therefore, a detailed anatomy knowledge of the posterior circulation is mandatory for an individualized preoperative planning and good neurological and angiographic outcomes. We selected the main aneurysm sites on the posterior circulation, such as: posterior inferior cerebellar artery, basilar trunk, basilar bifurcation, posterior cerebral artery (PCA) and superior cerebellar artery for a detailed description of the relevant anatomy related to aneurysm, and the main surgical approaches for its surgical treatment. Furthermore, we performed a literature review with the most recent outcomes regarding to the surgical treatment of posterior circulation aneurysms.
Prospective Randomized Controlled Pilot Study on Orbital Blowout Fracture
Authors: Alinasab Babak , Borstedt Karl-Johan , Rudström Rebecka , Ryott Michael , Qureshi Abdul Rashid , Stjärne Pär
Published: April 2018

To clarify the conflicting recommendations for care of blowout fracture (BOF), a prospective randomized study is required. Here, we present a prospective randomized pilot study on BOF. This article aimed to evaluate which computed tomography (CT) findings predict late functional and/or cosmetic symptoms in BOF patients with ≥ 1.0 mL herniation of orbital content into maxillary and/or ethmoidal sinuses. It also aimed to evaluate which patients with BOF would benefit from surgical treatment or observational follow-up. Twenty-six patients with BOF ≥ 1.0 mL herniation were randomized to observational ( n = 10) or surgical treatments ( n = 16) and were followed up for functional and cosmetic symptoms for at least 1 year. The results from CT scan measurements were correlated to the patients’ symptoms and clinical findings which we report in this pilot study. Of the 10 patients randomized to observation, five had an inferomedial BOF with a herniation of ≥ 1.3 mL and all patients developed cosmetic deformities and required surgery. The remaining five patients in the observational group had inferior BOF and one of them had a distance of 3.3 cm from the inferior orbital rim to the posterior edge of the fracture and developed a cosmetic deformity but was unwilling to proceed to surgical treatment, and four patients had a median distance of 2.9 cm from the inferior orbital rim to the posterior edge of the fracture and did not develop cosmetic deformities. The median time from injury to surgery was 13 (3–17) days for the surgical group and 37 (17–170) days for the patients who underwent surgery in the observational group. The surgical results were similar for all the operated patients at the final control. Diplopia decreased and remained partly in one patient in the surgical group and in two patients in the observational group. Hypoesthesia of the infraorbital nerve decreased in nonsurgically treated patients, but surgery seemed to induce hypoesthesia. In this prospective randomized controlled pilot study on BOF, all patients in the observational group with inferomedial fractures developed visible deformity. Diplopia in BOF, without ocular motility limitation, is believed to be due to edema. Diplopia is not an indication for surgery as long as it reduces over time.