bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Building Structures Atom by Atom via Electron Beam Manipulation
Authors: Dyck Ondrej , Kim Songkil , Jimenez‐Izal Elisa , Alexandrova Anastassia N. , Kalinin Sergei V. , Jesse Stephen 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBuilding materials from the atom up is the pinnacle of materials fabrication. Until recently the only platform that offered single‐atom manipulation was scanning tunneling microscopy. Here controlled manipulation and assembly of a few atom structures are demonstrated by bringing together single atoms using a scanning transmission electron microscope. An atomically focused electron beam is used to introduce Si substitutional defects and defect clusters in graphene with spatial control of a few nanometers and enable controlled motion of Si atoms. The Si substitutional defects are then further manipulated to form dimers, trimers, and more complex structures. The dynamics of a beam‐induced atomic‐scale chemical process is captured in a time‐series of images at atomic resolution. These studies suggest that control of the e‐beam‐induced local processes offers the next step toward atom‐by‐atom nanofabrication, providing an enabling tool for the study of atomic‐scale chemistry in 2D materials and fabrication of predefined structures and defects with atomic specificity.
Self‐Assembly of Immune Signals Improves Codelivery to Antigen Presenting Cells and Accelerates Signal Internalization, Processing Kinetics, and Immune Activation
Authors: Bookstaver Michelle L. , Hess Krystina L. , Jewell Christopher M. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractVaccines and immunotherapies that elicit specific types of immune responses offer transformative potential to tackle disease. The mechanisms governing the processing of immune signals—events that determine the type of response generated—are incredibly complex. Understanding these processes would inform more rational vaccine design by linking carrier properties, processing mechanisms, and relevant timescales to specific impacts on immune response. This goal is pursued using nanostructured materials—termed immune polyelectrolyte multilayers—built entirely from antigens and stimulatory toll‐like receptors agonists (TLRas). This simplicity allows isolation and quantification of the rates and mechanisms of intracellular signal processing, and the link to activation of distinct immune pathways. Each vaccine component is internalized in a colocalized manner through energy‐dependent caveolae‐mediated endocytosis. This process results in trafficking through endosome/lysosome pathways and stimulation of TLRs expressed on endosomes/lysosomes. The maximum rates for these events occur within 4 h, but are detectable in minutes, ultimately driving downstream proimmune functions. Interestingly, these uptake, processing, and activation kinetics are significantly faster for TLRas in particulate form compared with free TLRa. Our findings provide insight into specific mechanisms by which particulate vaccines enhance initiation of immune response, and highlight quantitative strategies to assess other carrier technologies.
Zr‐Metal‐Organic Framework Catalysts for Oxidative Desulfurization and Their Improvement by Postsynthetic Ligand Exchange
Authors: Fu Guangxia , Bueken Bart , De Vos Dirk 
Published: August 2018

AbstractTwo types of Zr6‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOF), {Zr6O4(OH)4(C6H3(COO)3)2(HCOO)6} (MOF‐808) and {Zr6O4(OH)4(C24H15(COO)3)2(HCOO)6} (UMCM‐309) are investigated as heterogeneous catalysts in oxidative desulfurization reactions. Postsynthetic approaches targeting the removal of the coordinating formate ligands are applied to further improve the MOFs’ catalytic activity, resulting in the formation of additional ZrIV open sites. Thus, three modified MOFs, namely MOF‐808‐M, UMCM‐309‐M1, and UMCM‐309‐M2, are synthesized with larger numbers of open sites, as shown by CD3CN chemisorption monitored by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), leading to higher catalytic activity. Even at low catalyst loading, MOF‐808‐M exhibits high catalytic activity in the oxidation of sulfur compounds as well as high selectivity and reusability.
Influence of Salt Concentration on the Properties of Sodium‐Based Electrolytes
Authors: Geng Chenxi , Buchholz Daniel , Kim Guk‐Tae , Carvalho Diogo Vieira , Zhang Huang , Chagas Luciana Gomes , Passerini Stefano 
Published: August 2018

AbstractElectrolytes based on organic carbonates are widely used for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to several advantages such as high ionic conductivity, wide liquidus range, and high electrochemical stability. In this work, this class of electrolyte is investigated focusing on two conductive salts, namely NaPF6 (sodium hexafluorophosphate) and NaTFSI (sodium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)imide), using PC (propylene carbonate) as solvent. The investigation of different salt concentrations, from rather diluted to highly concentrated (i.e., 0.1, 1, and 3 m), extends from their glass transition temperature to viscosity, ionic conductivity, electrochemical stability window, and electrochemical stability toward Al. Raman spectroscopy discloses the salt–solvent coordination and its possible modification due to changes in temperature, proving that the viscosity played a major role in influencing ionic conductivity rather than ions and molecules' coordination. Finally, the electrochemical performance of half‐cells employing Na
x
Ni0.22Co0.11Mn0.66O2 as the cathode material with the various electrolytes is also reported, and cells containing electrolyte with 1 m salt concentration outperform the other in terms of delivered capacity and rate performance.
Sex differences in the peripheral and central immune responses following lipopolysaccharide treatment in pubertal and adult CD‐1 mice
Authors: Sharma Rupali , Rooke Jasmine , Kolmogorova Daria , Melanson Brett , Mallet Jean‐François , Matar Chantal , Schwarz Jaclyn , Ismail Nafissa 
Published: August 2018

AbstractPuberty is a critical developmental period that is characterized by significant brain development. Exposure to stress during this time can alter brain functioning setting the stage for long‐lasting behavioural outcomes. The objective of this study was to investigate age and sex differences in the peripheral and central immune responses, along with sickness behaviour, following immune stress. The results showed that LPS treatment increased serum cytokine levels and sickness symptoms in all mice. Pubertal males displayed increased IL‐1β concentrations at 2 h and increased IL‐6 concentrations at 8 h post‐treatment whereas increased concentrations of TNFα, IL‐10, IL‐12, IL‐1β, IFNγ, and IL‐6 persisted at 8 and 24 h in adult females. Consistent with peripheral cytokines, pubertal males displayed greater IL‐1β, TNFα, and IL‐6 mRNA expression in the prefrontal cortex at 2 h, whereas adult males expressed more of the aforementioned cytokines at 8 h compared to saline controls. Adult males also displayed greater IL‐1β mRNA expression compared to their female counterparts, and adult females displayed greater TNFα mRNA expression compared to their male counterparts. These results not only provide a better understanding of the age and sex differences in acute immune response, but also show important region‐ and time‐specific differences in the response to an immune challenge, and that the peripheral immune response differs from the central response. This highlights the need to examine immune markers in both the periphery and the central nervous system for an accurate depiction of acute immune response following an immune challenge.
What factors impact the treatment outcomes of laparoscopic adrenalectomy in patients with functioning adrenal gland tumors?
Authors: Jenwitheesuk Kriangsak , Jenwitheesuk Kamonwan , Punchai Suriya , Wittayapairoch Jakrapan , Sawanyawisuth Kittisak 
Published: August 2018

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Laparoscopic adrenalectomy is currently considered a standard treatment for both functional and non-hormonal benign adrenal tumors. However, further studies are required to evaluate the factors that predict treatment outcomes in cases in which laparoscopic adrenalectomy is performed.

Materials and methods:
This was a cross-sectional study conducted between 2011 and 2017. The inclusion criteria were a diagnosis of functioning adrenal gland tumors and having undergone transperitoneal laparoscopic adrenalectomy. Important factors affecting the outcomes of treatment were analyzed.

Results:
There were 68 patients enrolled in this study. Participants were divided into two groups based on whether they had cured or uncured hypertension. The median ages in the cured and uncured groups were 41.0 and 54.0 years, respectively (p-value 0.001). The mean tumor size was 20 mm in the cured group and 15 mm in the uncured group. Patients in the cured group experienced a median of 20 ml of blood loss in both groups. Average operating times were 95 and 85 min, respectively. Only two factors were independently associated with uncured hypertension: age and preoperative systolic blood pressure, with adjusted odds ratios (95% confidence interval) of 1.11 (1.03, 1.17) and 1.03 (1.01, 1.07), respectively.

Conclusion:
Predictors for unsuccessful of treatment in patients who underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy were older age at the time of the operation and preoperative systemic blood pressure.

Highlights:
The role of fathers in overweight prevention: an analysis of a Caribbean cohort
Authors: Smith J. A. , Rocke K. D. , Charles S. M. , Chang S. M. , Wright A. S. , Walker S. P. , Taveras E. M. , Tulloch-Reid M. K. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractBackgroundFamily-based strategies to reduce the risk of overweight in childhood are needed in the Caribbean.AimTo investigate the associations between parental characteristics and risk of overweight and explore possible mechanisms.MethodsData from a parenting intervention were analysed. Parental characteristics were obtained by questionnaire at enrolment. At 18 months, 501 infants (82.9% of cohort) had weight and length measured using standardized methods. The association of parents’ characteristics with risk of infant overweight was assessed using random-effects logistic regression. Four focus groups among mothers in Jamaica were conducted to explore mechanisms.ResultsOverall, 20.6% of infants were ‘at risk of overweight’. Fathers were present in 52% of households. Fathers’ presence [OR (95% CI) 0.60 (0.37–0.96)] was associated with reduced risk of overweight independent of socioeconomic status. Mothers reported that fathers encouraged healthier practices.ConclusionFathers may be important agents of change in intervention strategies to prevent childhood overweight.
Comparison of nylon-flocked swab and cellulose sponge methods for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae and gram-negative organism recovery from high-touch surfaces in patient rooms
Authors: Rock Clare , Anderson Michael , Lewis Shawna , Scheeler Verna , Nowakowski Elaine , Hsu Yea-Jen , Milstone Aaron M. , Carroll Karen C. , Maragakis Lisa L. , Simner Patricia J. ,   for the CDC Prevention Epicenters Program
Published: August 2018

AbstractThe ideal sampling method and benefit of qualitative versus quantitative culture for carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) recovery in hospitalized patient rooms and bathrooms is unknown. Although the use of nylon-flocked swabs improved overall gram-negative organism recovery compared with cellulose sponges, they were similar for CRE recovery. Quantitative culture was inferior and unrevealing beyond the qualitative results.
Evidence of the inheritance of firm routines through accounting information: An empirical study of the Taiwanese group firms
Authors: Lei Han-Sheng , Chang Keng-wei , Chen Chih-Chang , Chen Yu-Ju , Chang Ke-Chiun 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThe accounting information of a firm is analogous to the characteristics of an organism that contain biological information that influences decisions; such characteristics result from organizational routines (genes). Organizational routines result from organizational learning, and learning from an associated company is an efficient approach for a new venture to establish routines. The study results revealed that the subsidiaries inherited routines from the parent companies related to financial ratios, so we suggest that people should judge the adequacy of a firm’s financial situation by not only referring to the standard of its industry but also to its parent company.
Calabi–Yau Double Coverings of Fano–Enriques Threefolds
Authors: Lee Nam-Hoon 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThis note is a report on the observation that the Fano–Enriques threefolds with terminal cyclic quotient singularities admit Calabi–Yau threefolds as their double coverings. We calculate the invariants of those Calabi–Yau threefolds when the Picard number is one. It turns out that all of them are new examples.
CARBON AND NUTRIENT LOSSES THROUGH BIOMASS BURNING, AND LINKS WITH SOIL FERTILITY AND YAM (DIOSCOREA ALATA) PRODUCTION
Authors: N'DRI AYA B. , KONE ARMAND W. , LOUKOU SEBASTIEN K. K. , BAROT SEBASTIEN , GIGNOUX JACQUES 
Published: August 2018

SUMMARYBiomass burning has links with a number of global concerns including soil health, food security and climate change. In central Côte d'Ivoire (West Africa), we conducted a field study to compare nutrient losses, soil fertility and yam yield in slash-and-burn versus slash-and-mulch agriculture. Trials involved five sites established in the dominantChromolaena odoratafallows of the region, each consisting of paired plots: slash and burnt biomass (SB) versus slashed and unburnt biomass, but left to serve as mulch (SM). Carbon and five elemental nutrients were assessed in the aboveground biomass prior to burning and in ash after fires; losses were assessed by subtraction. The greatest proportions of loss occurred with C (95%), N (95%) and K (74%), corresponding to losses into the atmosphere of 3532 ± 408, 200 ± 36, 132 ± 36 kg ha−1. Six weeks after the fire, soil properties were assessed: soil organic C, total N and Mg2+were higher in SM than in SB sites. At final harvest, yam tuber yield was twice as large in SM as in SB (18 ± 4 vs. 9 ± 2 Mg ha−1) with soil C, total N and K+as the main influential soil parameters. The key finding was that the elements lost in greatest proportion during burning were those mostly influencing yam yields. Because a clear negative relationship between biomass burning and yam production has been established the promotion of the more productive, alternate slash-and-mulch system compared to slash-and-burn system, is warranted. The findings of our research can be used in support of developing a sustainable yam production system in the region and in West Africa more generally.
Mercury evidence from the Sino-Korean block for Emeishan volcanism during the Capitanian mass extinction
Authors: KWON HYOSANG , KIM MUN GI , LEE YONG IL 
Published: August 2018

AbstractA prominent large negative δ13Corg excursion and a coeval notable spike in mercury (Hg)/total organic carbon ratio are observed in the middle–upper Permian Gohan Formation in central Korea, located in the eastern Sino-Korean block (SKB), which may represent the Capitanian mass extinction event. The SKB was separated from the South China block by the eastern Palaeo-Tethys Ocean. This finding from the SKB supports the widespread Hg loading to the environment emitted from the Emeishan volcanic eruptions in SW China. This study demonstrates that the Hg cycle was globally perturbed in association with global carbon cycle perturbation that occurred during the Capitanian Extinction.
THE ‘PARRY REPORT’ (1965) AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF LATIN AMERICAN STUDIES IN THE UNITED KINGDOM
Authors: PAQUETTE GABRIEL 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThis article examines the origins of the ‘Parry Report’ (1965), the implementation of which led to the massive expansion of Latin American Studies in the United Kingdom. Drawing on material from several archives, the article argues that the Report was the product of a peculiar geopolitical conjuncture – decolonization, the 1959 Cuban Revolution, Britain's rejection from the European Economic Community – that prompted the Foreign Office to convene a group of academics (and selected others) from institutions then in the process of formalizing links with US-based private foundations. It seeks to show how extramural and intramural factors, geopolitics and academic politics, combined to generate an interdisciplinary area study that survived long after the conditions that had given rise to its genesis had disappeared.
Factor Structure in Commodity Futures Return and Volatility
Authors: Christoffersen Peter , Lunde Asger , Olesen Kasper V. 
Published: August 2018

We uncover stylized facts of commodity futures’ price and volatility dynamics in the post-financialization period and find a factor structure in daily commodity volatility that is much stronger than the factor structure in returns. The common factor in commodity volatility relates to stock market volatility as well as to the business cycle. Model-free realized commodity betas with the stock market were high during 2008–2010 but have since returned to the pre-crisis level, close to 0. While commodity markets appear segmented from the equity market when considering only returns, commodity volatility indicates a nontrivial degree of market integration.
Virtue and Asceticism
Authors: Besong Brian 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAlthough one can find a robust philosophical tradition supporting asceticism in the West, from ancient Greece to at least early modernity, very little attention has been paid to what motivated this broad support. Instead, following criticism from figures such as Hume, Voltaire, Bentham, and Nietzsche, asceticism has been largely disregarded as either eccentric or uniquely religious. In this paper, I provide what I take to be the core moral argument that motivated many philosophical ascetics. In brief, acts of deliberate self-denial are practice in an important part of acting ethically and are thus practically rational as a means to acquiring virtue. And if this argument has been a core motivation for asceticism in the West then arguably philosophical ascetics have been on to something, especially given contemporary empirical research on self-control.
Understanding the educational and support needs of informal care-givers of people with dementia attending an outpatient geriatric assessment clinic
Authors: Ringer Thom J. , Wong-Pack Matthew , Miller Patricia , Patterson Christopher , Marr Sharon , Misiaszek Brian , Woo Tricia , Sztramko Richard , Vastis Peter George , Papaioannou Alexandra 
Published: August 2018

AbstractInformal (unpaid) care-givers of older people with dementia experience stress and isolation, causing physical and psychiatric morbidity. Comprehensive geriatric assessment clinics represent an important geriatrician-led model of dementia care. Our qualitative study examined the educational and support needs of care-givers of people diagnosed with dementia at a geriatric assessment clinic, resources used to address those needs and challenges experienced in doing so. We conducted structured thematic analysis of interviews with 18 informal care-givers. Participants’ narratives reflected four themes. First, care-givers sought information from varied sources, including the Alzheimer Society, the internet and clinic staff. Responsive behaviours, the expected progression of dementia and system navigation were topics of particular interest. Second, care-givers obtained assistance from public, for-profit and voluntary sources. Third, care-givers received little assistance. Two-thirds received fewer than four hours of help weekly from all sources combined, and none more than 15. Several received no assistance whatsoever. Publicly funded support workers’ tasks, and their timing, were often unhelpful. Finally, while numerous care-givers felt physical and emotional strain, and worried about how poor health impaired their care-giving, many hesitated to seek help. The needs of this unique population of informal care-givers can be met by improved home-care service flexibility, and access to trustworthy information about the expected progression of dementia and skills for managing behavioural and psychological symptoms.
Modeling multidisciplinary design with multiagent learning
Authors: Hulse Daniel , Tumer Kagan , Hoyle Christopher , Tumer Irem 
Published: August 2018

AbstractComplex engineered systems design is a collaborative activity. To design a system, experts from the relevant disciplines must work together to create the best overall system from their individual components. This situation is analogous to a multiagent system in which agents solve individual parts of a larger problem in a coordinated way. Current multiagent models of design teams, however, do not capture this distributed aspect of design teams – instead either representing designers as agents which control all variables, measuring organizational outcomes instead of design outcomes, or representing different aspects of distributed design, such as negotiation. This paper presents a new model which captures the distributed nature of complex systems design by decomposing the ability to control design variables to individual computational designers acting on a problem with shared constraints. These designers are represented as a multiagent learning system which is shown to perform similarly to a centralized optimization algorithm on the same domain. When used as a model, this multiagent system is shown to perform better when the level of designer exploration is not decayed but is instead controlled based on the increase of design knowledge, suggesting that designers in multidisciplinary teams should not simply reduce the scope of design exploration over time, but should adapt based on changes in their collective knowledge of the design space. This multiagent system is further shown to produce better-performing designs when computational designers design collaboratively as opposed to independently, confirming the importance of collaboration in complex systems design.