bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exclusion of injection efficiency as the primary cause of efficiency droop in semipolar (202¯1¯) InGaN/GaN light-emitting diodes
Authors: Rashidi A. , Monavarian M. , Aragon A. , Feezell D.
Published: July 2018

We extract the injection efficiency as a function of current density in single-quantum-well semipolar (202¯1¯) InGaN/GaN light-emitting diodes (LEDs) using small-signal RF measurements and rate equation analysis of the dominant carrier mechanisms. The rate equations are used to derive a small-signal equivalent circuit that yields expressions for the modulation response and the input impedance of the LED. Simultaneous fitting of the modulation response and the input impedance of the circuit to the measured modulation response and the input impedance of the LED gives the differential carrier lifetime, the net differential carrier escape time from the active region, and the differential recombination lifetime in the cladding layers. The extracted lifetimes are used to calculate the injection efficiency of the LED at various current densities. Carrier leakage from the active region results in an injection efficiency below one at low current densities. At high current densities, the injection efficiency approaches one due to the higher recombination rate in the quantum well (QW) and the lower carrier leakage. Analysis of the lifetimes shows that the higher recombination rate in the QW results in a slower increase in the carrier population in the QW compared to that in the cladding layers. However, the recombination current in the QW is generally higher than that in the cladding, leading to high injection efficiency at high current densities. The data are consistent with a Coulomb-enhanced capture process. The high injection efficiency obtained at high current densities rules out injection-related mechanisms as the primary cause of efficiency droop in semipolar (202¯1¯) InGaN/GaN LEDs.
Post-CCSD(T) contributions to total atomization energies in multireference systems
Authors: Karton Amir
Published: July 2018

We examine the magnitude and the basis set convergence of post-coupled-cluster with single, double, and perturbative triple excitations (CCSD(T)) contributions (up to CCSDTQ567) for a wide and diverse set of 21 first- and second-row molecules with up to four non-hydrogen atoms. We focus on multireference systems for which post-CCSD(T) effects are particularly pronounced. The considered molecules are BN(1∑+), C2(1∑+), O2, FO, P2, S2, ClO, N2O, NO2, O3, FNO, FO2, F2O, S2O, S3, ClNO, ClOO, Cl2O, N2C2, P4, and S4. This set spans the gamut from molecules dominated by moderate nondynamical correlation (e.g., FO, ClO, NO2, S2O, N2C2, and P4) to systems dominated by strong nondynamical correlation (e.g., BN, C2, FO2, O3, ClOO, and S4). We examine the basis set convergence of the CCSDT, CCSDT(Q), CCSDTQ, CCSDTQ(5), CCSDTQ5, CCSDTQ5(6), CCSDTQ56, CCSDTQ56(7), and CCSDTQ567 methods. The largest basis sets employed in each category are cc-pV6Z (CCSDT(Q)), cc-pV5Z (CCSDTQ), cc-pVTZ (CCSDTQ5(6)), and cc-pVDZ (CCSDTQ567). Apart from examining the basis-set convergence of post-CCSD(T) contributions near the one-particle basis-set limit, this work explores cost-effective approaches for obtaining these contributions from fairly small basis sets. We consider both effective basis-set extrapolations and scaling factors. An important finding is that extrapolating the perturbative connected quadruples, (Q), from the cc-pVDZ(4s3p1d) and cc-pVTZ basis sets yields near basis-set limit results and represents a significant improvement relative to cc-pV{D,T}Z extrapolation at no additional computational cost (where cc-pVDZ(4s3p1d) is an extended version of the cc-pVDZ basis set). Combining the (Q)/cc-pV{D(4s3p1d),T}Z extrapolations with the fully iterative connected quadruples, Q–(Q), contribution calculated with the cc-pVDZ (or even the cc-pVDZ(3s2p)) basis set is a cost-effective way for obtaining the connected quadruples component close to the basis-set limit (where cc-pVDZ(3s2p) is a truncated version of the cc-pVDZ basis set). In addition, we show that the (5)/cc-pVDZ(3s2p) and (6)/cc-pVDZ(3s2p) components provide reasonable approximations for the connected quintuple and sextuple components close to the basis-set limit, respectively.
Cross sections for electron scattering from thiophene for a broad energy range
Authors: Loupas Alexandra , Lozano Ana. I. , Blanco Francisco , Gorfinkiel Jimena D. , García Gustavo
Published: July 2018

We present cross sections for elastic and inelastic electron scattering from thiophene calculated in the energy range 0.1-1000 eV. The R-matrix and independent atom representation-screening-corrected additivity rule (IAM-SCAR) methods were used for low-energy and intermediate and high scattering energies, respectively. The results provide a consistent picture of the scattering process in the whole energy range. The effect of including an interference term in the IAM-SCAR approach is considered. Agreement with prior theoretical results is also discussed.
Optoelectronic properties of calcium cobalt oxide misfit nanotubes
Authors: Lajaunie Luc , Ramasubramaniam Ashwin , Panchakarla Leela S. , Arenal Raul
Published: July 2018

We report on the optoelectronic properties of a recently discovered nanotubular phase of misfit-layered calcium cobalt oxide, CaCoO2–CoO2. Individual nanotubes are investigated by spatially resolved electron energy-loss spectroscopy experiments performed in a transmission electron microscope, and complementary first-principles, time-dependent hybrid density-functional theory calculations are performed to elucidate the electronic structure and optical spectra. We find that the band gap is independent of the geometry of the nanotubes, and experimental and calculated results independently confirm an optical gap of 1.9–2.1 eV for the CaCoO2–CoO2 nanotubes. The time-dependent hybrid density-functional theory calculations also suggest the existence of strongly bound intralayer excitons (up to 0.5 eV binding energy), which could allow for optoelectronic applications of these nanotubes at near-infrared to visible (∼1.5–2 eV) wavelengths.
New study reveals the real-time dynamical response of asymmetric tilt during epitaxial thin film growth
Authors: Zhang Zhengzheng
Published: July 2018

Scientists have observed the real-time strain relaxation response of asymmetric tilt boundaries at the Bi/GaAs (110) interface, which could improve the production of high-quality epitaxial thin films for modern electronic devices.
Platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase 1B3 (PAFAH1B3) is required for the formation of the meiotic spindle during in vitro oocyte maturation
Authors: Vandenberghe L. T. M. , Heindryckx B. , Smits K. , Szymanska K. , Ortiz-Escribano N. , Ferrer-Buitrago M. , Pavani K. , Peelman L. , Deforce D. , De Sutter P. , Van Soom A. , De Schauwer C.
Published: July 2018

Platelet-activating factor (PAF) is a well-described autocrine growth factor involved in several reproductive processes and is tightly regulated by its hydrolysing enzyme, PAF acetylhydrolase 1B (PAFAH1B). This intracellular enzyme consists of three subunits: one regulatory, 1B1, and two catalytic, 1B2 and 1B3. PAFAH1B3 has remained uncharacterised until now. Here, we report that PAFAH1B3 is present during the different stages of the first meiotic division in bovine, murine and human oocytes. In these species, the PAFAH1B3 subunit was clearly present in the germinal vesicle, while at metaphase I and II, it localised primarily at the meiotic spindle structure. In cattle, manipulation of the microtubules of the spindle by nocodazole, taxol or cryopreservation revealed a close association with PAFAH1B3. On the other hand, disruption of the enzyme activity either by P11, a selective inhibitor of PAFAH1B3, or by PAFAH1B3 antibody microinjection, caused arrest at the MI stage with defective spindle morphology and consequent failure of first polar body extrusion. In conclusion, our results show that one of the catalytic subunits of PAFAH1B, namely PAFAH1B3, is present in bovine, murine and human oocytes and that it plays a functional role in spindle formation and meiotic progression during bovine oocyte maturation.
Data-driven body–machine interface for the accurate control of drones
Authors: Miehlbradt Jenifer , Cherpillod Alexandre , Mintchev Stefano , Coscia Martina , Artoni Fiorenzo , Floreano Dario , Micera Silvestro
Published: July 2018

Significance

The teleoperation of nonhumanoid robots is often a demanding task, as most current control interfaces rely on mappings between the operator’s and the robot’s actions, which are determined by the design and characteristics of the interface, and may therefore be challenging to master. Here, we describe a structured methodology to identify common patterns in spontaneous interaction behaviors, to implement embodied user interfaces, and to select the appropriate sensor type and positioning. Using this method, we developed an intuitive, gesture-based control interface for real and simulated drones, which outperformed a standard joystick in terms of learning time and steering abilities. Implementing this procedure to identify body-machine patterns for specific applications could support the development of more intuitive and effective interfaces.
Spatially constrained tandem bromodomain inhibition bolsters sustained repression of BRD4 transcriptional activity for TNBC cell growth
Authors: Ren Chunyan , Zhang Guangtao , Han Fangbin , Fu Shibo , Cao Yingdi , Zhang Fan , Zhang Qiang , Meslamani Jamel , Xu Yaoyao , Ji Donglei , Cao Lingling , Zhou Qian , Cheung Ka-lung , Sharma Rajal , Babault Nicolas , Yi Zhengzi , Zhang Weijia , Walsh Martin J. , Zeng Lei , Zhou Ming-Ming
Published: July 2018

Significance

BRD4, a major BET family protein, regulates gene transcription through coordinated binding of its characteristic tandem bromodomains (BrDs) to lysine-acetylated histones and transcription factors. Studies show that BRD4 function in transcriptional regulation is likely context- and cell-type-dependent, consistent with the observation that pan-BET BrD inhibitors such as JQ1 are much less effective in solid tumors than in hematopoietic cancers. Here, we show that spatially constrained bivalent inhibition of BRD4 BrDs with our BET inhibitor MS645 results in a sustained repression of BRD4 transcriptional activity in solid-tumor cells including triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Our study offers a therapeutic strategy to maximally control BRD4 activity required for rapid cell proliferation of the devastating TNBC that lacks targeted therapy.
Phosphodiesterase 2 inhibition preferentially promotes NO/guanylyl cyclase/cGMP signaling to reverse the development of heart failure
Authors: Baliga Reshma S. , Preedy Michael E. J. , Dukinfield Matthew S. , Chu Sandy M. , Aubdool Aisah A. , Bubb Kristen J. , Moyes Amie J. , Tones Michael A. , Hobbs Adrian J.
Published: July 2018

Significance

The morbidity and mortality associated with heart failure (HF) are unacceptably high. Cyclic guanosine-3′,5′-monophosphate (cGMP) plays a key role in preserving cardiac structure and function, and therapeutically targeting cGMP in HF has shown promise in experimental models and patients. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) metabolize and curtail the actions of cGMP (and cAMP), and increased PDE activity is thought to contribute to HF pathogenesis. Herein, we show that inhibition of one specific isoform, PDE2, enhances the salutary effects of cGMP in the context of HF, and that this beneficial action facilitates a distinct pathway, driven by nitric oxide, that is impaired in this disorder. These observations validate PDE2 inhibitors as a demonstrable means of boosting cardiac cGMP and advancing HF therapy.
The impact of environmental change on the use of early pottery by East Asian hunter-gatherers
Authors: Lucquin Alexandre , Robson Harry K. , Eley Yvette , Shoda Shinya , Veltcheva Dessislava , Gibbs Kevin , Heron Carl P. , Isaksson Sven , Nishida Yastami , Taniguchi Yasuhiro , Nakajima Shōta , Kobayashi Kenichi , Jordan Peter , Kaner Simon , Craig Oliver E.
Published: July 2018

Significance

The motivations for the widespread adoption of pottery is a key theme in world prehistory and is often linked to climate warming at the start of the Holocene. Through organic residue analysis, we investigated the contents of >800 ceramic samples from across the Japanese archipelago, a unique assemblage that transcends the Pleistocene–Holocene boundary. Against our expectations, we found that pottery use did not fundamentally change in the Early Holocene. Instead, aquatic resources dominated in both periods regardless of the environmental setting. Nevertheless, we found that a broader range of aquatic foods was processed in Early Holocene vessels, corresponding to increased ceramic production, reduced mobility, intensified fishing, and the start of significant shellfish gathering at this time.
Pharmacological reactivation of inactive X-linked
Mecp2
in cerebral cortical neurons of living mice
Authors: Przanowski Piotr , Wasko Urszula , Zheng Zeming , Yu Jun , Sherman Robyn , Zhu Lihua Julie , McConnell Michael J. , Tushir-Singh Jogender , Green Michael R. , Bhatnagar Sanchita
Published: July 2018

Significance

Rett syndrome (RTT) is a devastating neurodevelopmental disorder with no cure. RTT typically affects females and is caused by mutations in one of the two copies of the X-linked gene
MECP2
. Due to X chromosome inactivation, the random silencing of one X chromosome, females with RTT have a mixture of cells that express either normal or mutant
MECP2
. Importantly, cells expressing mutant
MECP2
retain a normal copy of
MECP2
on the inactive X chromosome (Xi), the reactivation of which represents a potential therapeutic approach for RTT. Here we use small-molecule inhibitors to reactivate the Xi-linked
Mecp2
gene in brain neurons of living mice. Our results further establish the feasibility of Xi-linked
MECP2
reactivation-based therapeutics for treatment of RTT.
Electrometry by optical charge conversion of deep defects in 4H-SiC
Authors: Wolfowicz G. , Whiteley S. J. , Awschalom D. D.
Published: July 2018

Significance

Electric field sensing is an important tool in metrology and characterization applications. Here we show that photoluminescent defects in silicon carbide, such as divacancies and silicon vacancies, can provide local information of radio-frequency electric fields. Using all-optical excitation, the charge state of the defect is controlled, measured, and shown to be affected by this electric field. This sensing technique enables spatial 3D mapping as well as spectral resolution of the electric field. By taking advantage of the piezoelectricity in silicon carbide, the technique also provides similar information on local radio-frequency strain waves. This method is expected to be broadly applicable to other materials and of interest for high-power electronics and high-frequency microelectromechanical systems.
Amygdala lesions eliminate viewing preferences for faces in rhesus monkeys
Authors: Taubert Jessica , Flessert Molly , Wardle Susan G. , Basile Benjamin M. , Murphy Aidan P. , Murray Elisabeth A. , Ungerleider Leslie G.
Published: July 2018

Significance

The primate brain is specialized for social interaction, and a complex network of brain regions supports this important function. Face perception is central to social development, and both humans and nonhuman primates exhibit a spontaneous viewing preference for faces. This shared involuntary response underscores the importance of faces in the earliest stages of cognitive development, yet its neural basis is not well understood. Here we report that bilateral amygdala lesions in rhesus monkeys eliminate the robust viewing preference for both real faces and illusory faces. This demonstrates a fundamental role for the amygdala in guiding eye movements toward face stimuli, a critical behavior for normal social development and social interaction.
Essential nucleotide- and protein-dependent functions ofActb/β-actin
Authors: Patrinostro Xiaobai , Roy Pallabi , Lindsay Angus , Chamberlain Christopher M. , Sundby Lauren J. , Starker Colby G. , Voytas Daniel F. , Ervasti James M. , Perrin Benjamin J.
Published: July 2018

Significance

Actin is required for many general and specialized cellular functions. Two isoforms, β-actin and γ-actin, are ubiquitously expressed and 99% identical in amino acid sequence, yet previous studies indicated only β-actin is indispensable for life. The nucleotide sequence of each gene also varies, providing additional regulation that may make β-actin indispensable. To separate the effects of protein and nucleotide sequences, the β-actin gene was edited to encode γ-actin protein, while retaining any regulation contained in the nucleotide sequence. The mice, which lack β-actin protein, are viable and appear to be normal. However, they develop progressive hearing loss as auditory sensory cells degenerate. Together, these results show that β-actin function depends on both its nucleotide and protein sequence.
The competition between the present conditional and the prospective imperfect in French over the centuries: First results
Authors: Bres Jacques , Diwersy Sascha , Luxardo Giancarlo
Published: July 2018

While a significant number of works are known about the competition over the centuries between the synthetic future and the periphrastic prospective present, the parallel competition between the present conditional and the periphrastic construction with the prospective imperfect has received less attention. We focus here on the latter competition, limiting our study of the two forms to their temporal uses in discourse. We describe the uses for each form according to their order of appearance: imminence, subjective ulteriority and objective ulteriority. The two forms compete with each other in the expression of both subjective and objective ulteriority. We give an assessment of the diachronic evolution of the ratio present conditional / prospective imperfect in the expression of subjective ulteriority.
Evidentiality and epistemic modality in Old Catalan
Authors: Sentí Andreu
Published: July 2018

Epistemic modality and evidentiality are two categories that have not been clearly defined in the literature. In order to clarify the boundaries between them, I draw a detailed semantic map for Catalan modal verbs deure (‘must’), haver de (‘have to’) and poder (‘can/may’) in the Old period (11th–16th centuries). On the one hand, the modals deure and haver de develop an evidential reading (inferential process). On the other hand, an epistemic possibility value arises in the case of poder, which is not based on any explicit premise. I show that all these verbs are subjectively construed in different degrees and argue that a clear distinction between the subjective values and an evidential or epistemic interpretation is paramount.
‘I think’
Authors: Ranger Graham
Published: July 2018

This chapter focuses on the sequence ‘I think’ as a discourse marker, used in evidential or epistemic contexts. ‘I think’ is seen to assume a variety of different values, which Kaltenböck (2010), among others, identifies as “shielding”, “approximator”, “structural” or “booster” functions. I hypothesise that ‘I think’ is not inherently ambiguous, but that different values reflect specific configurations, which depend on identifiable contextual features. The present study explores this hypothesis, first with a corpus-based investigation of collocational affinities of the sequence, which reveals a number of characteristic environments. Secondly, I elaborate an enunciative description of ‘I think’ in terms of a basic schematic form, which undergoes certain controlled and calculable deformations to generate local “shapes” (Culioli 1990). I conclude that ‘I think’ in itself expresses neither evidentiality nor epistemic modality, but that these result from specific contextual configurations.
Designing digital texts for beginner readers
Authors: Walker Sue , Black Alison , Bessemans Ann , Bormans Kevin , Renckens Maarten , Barratt Mark
Published: July 2018

This chapter summarises issues that designers consider when they are producing reading materials for beginning and emerging readers, including the constraints imposed by technology. We suggest ways of engaging with users of e-books so that their needs can be considered. We conclude by summarising the typographic parameters that are likely to benefit children’s reading.
Cognitive processes and digital reading
Authors: Wylie Judith , Thomson Jenny , Leppänen Paavo H.T. , Ackerman Rakefet , Kanniainen Laura , Prieler Tanja
Published: July 2018

Regardless of the medium, reading is a complex skill involving the execution and coordination of many cognitive processes. Reading comprehension in skilled readers is the end-product of processes that are fast, efficient, interactive and strategic. These processes, some of which may be described as lower level (e.g. word recognition) and some as higher level (e.g. inference-making), rely on aspects of executive function including attention, working memory, executive control and metacognition. This chapter examines the involvement of these four aspects in both print and digital reading. We explore how on-screen reading of linear and non-linear text (hypertext) makes additional demands on executive function, potentially threatening comprehension and learning. We also consider how technology may confer processing advantages for readers with particular difficulties. Recommendations aimed at preventing shallow processing when engaging with digital text are presented. Having reviewed the literature, we speculate on how the potential of technology may be harnessed in order to encourage reading, to improve assessment, and to increase knowledge.
Emotional and motivational aspects of digital reading
Authors: Kaakinen Johanna K. , Papp-Zipernovszky Orsolya , Werlen Egon , Castells Nuria , Bergamin Per , Baccino Thierry , Jacobs Arthur M.
Published: July 2018

Emotions guide our actions and have a profound influence on how we approach, experience and later remember information. This chapter provides an overview of the role of emotions in reading and describes how emotional processes differ across digital and print texts. After introducing what emotions are and how they can be measured, we discuss the influence of text genre on inducing emotions. We further explore the effects of digital texts on the emotional experiences in narrative and expository text reading. We then consider the importance of the reader’s motivational orientation, as it may influence preferences for digital vs. print texts. Finally, we discuss the impact of the communicative and collaborative aspects of digital reading environments on the emotions emerging during reading. It is evident that little is known about the impact of digitalisation on emotional processes during reading, and more theory-based research is needed.
Literacy education in the digital age
Authors: Mifsud Charles L. , Petrová Zuzana
Published: July 2018

Beginning readers in the early 21st century have unprecedented access to digital books and reading materials that provide them, and the adults supporting them, with many opportunities as well as many challenges. In the present chapter, we consider children’s early literacy experiences in a digital world. We review research on the influence of digital texts on early reading and explore how digital technologies are being integrated into educational literacy practices, both in the preschool and school age years. The success of this integration necessitates attention to multiple parts of the educational ecosystem, from individual learners to educators, and through to local and national educational policy.
Task complexity effects on interaction during a collaborative persuasive writing task
Authors: Gomez-Laich Maria Pia , Taguchi Naoko
Published: July 2018

This study examined whether task complexity (Robinson, 2011a, b), induced through reasoning demands, affects L2 learners’ interaction patterns during a collaborative writing task that involved the pragmatic act of persuasion. We analyzed interaction of two pairs of students when they co-constructed a persuasive essay in English based on a prompt. One pair completed a ‘simple’ task, which provided explicit information about the arguments, macro-structure of the essay, and linguistic devices to use in a persuasive essay, while the other pair completed a ‘complex’ task in which such information was withheld, and thus they needed to use reasoning skills to figure out the structure of the persuasive essay. Using a conversation analysis-inspired approach, we examined how students co-constructed an essay. Results revealed differences between pairs completing a complex and simple task in terms of (1) pre-writing negotiation over the essay’s structure and (2) during-writing negotiation over sources of trouble. The complex task condition prompted participants to use more reasoning processes to accomplish the task goal, as shown in more extended negotiation sequences and turn taking, frequent pauses, and hesitant ways of speaking (e.g., use of rising intonation and epistemic markers).
Task modality effects on Spanish learners’ interlanguage pragmatic development
Authors: Reagan Derek , Payant Caroline
Published: July 2018

Within the field of second language acquisition (SLA), we have witnessed a rise in research on task-based language teaching (TBLT) and its effects on L2 development (Kim, 2015). However, few studies have examined how TBLT could facilitate the development of interlanguage pragmatics (Taguchi & Kim, 2015), an issue which this volume aims to address. Moreover, whether task modality (i.e., oral versus written tasks) mediates development has yet to be investigated. The current study with learners of Spanish focused on the effects of using pedagogical tasks and on the manipulation of task modality on learners’ L2 pragmatic competence through the production of Spanish requests and speech act modifications. Two intermediate classes (n = 25) of Spanish completed either an oral or written story completion task. Drawing on oral and written Discourse Completion Tests, we found that tasks positively impacted learners’ production of L2 requests. However, significant differences between modality groupings were not identified.
Developing pragmatic competence through tasks in EFL contexts
Authors: Levkina Mayya
Published: July 2018

Although task-based language teaching, on the one hand, and teaching pragmatics on the other, are not considered to be new trends anymore, there is still a gap in the research regarding how pragmatic features can be taught using a task-based approach. To fill the gap, the present study examines whether speech acts of apology, justification, and thanking are teachable through tasks in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) contexts. The study further investigates the role of L2 proficiency in the development of pragmatic awareness. The participants are 38 third-year university students in Spain who are enrolled in English for the Media course with two different levels of proficiency in English (B1 and C1 on the CEFR). The experiment consists of a pretest involving e-mail writing tasks and a posttest. Pretest/posttest tasks are analysed by rating the appropriateness of speech acts of apology, justification, and thanking on a six-point appropriateness scale and on grammar scales. Results display some positive effects of the task-based instruction on the learning of pragmatics in both proficiency groups. However, the results of the posttests for the grammar scales and the overall gains did not correlate with the proficiency scores, which suggests that L2 development of pragmatics cannot be fully attributed to L2 learners’ proficiency.
Pragmatics, tasks, and technology
Authors: González-Lloret Marta , Ortega Lourdes
Published: July 2018

This chapter explores the relationship among pragmatics, tasks, and technology when the goal is to support the development of pragmatics in a new language (L2). We view L2 pragmatic competence as culturally and situationally specific and inseparable from authentic communication, which encompasses both the face-to-face and digital worlds of people. Taking as a premise that optimal blends of tasks and new technologies can provide a programmatic framework for L2 instruction (González-Lloret & Ortega, 2014), including L2 pragmatics instruction, we first survey key existing task-based, technology-mediated approaches that incorporate a focus on the development of L2 pragmatics. We then choose two well-known areas of TBLT – cognitive task complexity (Robinson, 2011; Skehan, 2003) and needs analysis (González-Lloret, 2014) – to point at factors that can shape interactional pragmatics, and we show how they can be relevantly applied to technology-mediated tasks for the teaching and learning of L2 pragmatics. From a TBLT stance, we argue that the pragmatics-related demands of tasks might impact cognitive task complexity as an independent variable. From a technology-mediated TBLT stance, we propose that the systematic analysis of tasks in terms of pragmatics is necessary to carve a formal curricular place for L2 pragmatics instruction. We close the chapter by pointing at two fruitful future areas for investigating how the synergy among pragmatics, tasks, and technology can be optimized.
Pragmatics in task-based language assessment
Authors: Timpe-Laughlin Veronika
Published: July 2018

Several researchers have pointed out synergies between task-based language assessment (TBLA) and L2 pragmatics assessment, insofar as both domains are based on a concern for effective communication in context (Kim & Taguchi, 2015; Norris, 2016; Timpe-Laughlin, Wain, & Schmidgall, 2015). It is therefore surprising that very little research has been carried out on pragmatics in TBLA. Kim and Taguchi (2015), for example, highlighted that “[p]ragmatics has been a particularly underinvestigated area of task-based research” (p. 660), both in teaching and assessment – a paradox given that the task-based assessment paradigm provides a fitting framework for the assessment of L2 pragmatics. Bringing together the two lines of research – L2 pragmatics and TBLA – this chapter will highlight similarities between the basic tenets of both domains, while discussing opportunities and challenges for employing TBLA as a framework for designing assessments that measure L2 pragmatics. To that end, the chapter begins with a brief review of the fundamental concepts of task-based assessment, highlighting the role of the task as a basic unit of analysis in designing tests that include a focus on pragmatics. It discusses challenges related to generalizability, reliability, and validity as well as issues of task design and task difficulty. It then canvasses current uses of TBLA to assess L2 pragmatics, illustrating different types of task-based assessments that have included pragmatic phenomena, both in research and in operational testing. Ultimately, it argues that, as a foundation for assessing L2 pragmatics, tasks offer a number of benefits that, despite the challenges, are worth pursuing.
ACDtool: a web-server for the generic analysis of large data sets of counts
Authors: Claverie Jean-Michel , Ta Thi Ngan
Published: July 2018

Motivation

More than 20 years ago, our laboratory published an original statistical test [referred to as the Audic-Claverie (AC) test in the literature] to identify differentially expressed genes from the pairwise comparison of counts of ‘expressed sequence tags’ determined in different conditions. Despite its antiquity and the publications of more sophisticated packages, this original publication continued to gather more than 200 citations per year, indicating the persistent usefulness of the simple AC test for the community. This prompted us to propose a fully revamped version of the AC test with a user interface adapted to the diverse and much larger datasets produced by contemporary omics techniques.

Results

ACDtool is a freely accessible web-service proposing three types of analyses: (i) the pairwise comparison of individual counts, (ii) pairwise comparisons of arbitrary large lists of counts and (iii) the all-at-once pairwise comparisons of multiple datasets. Statistical computations are implemented using standard R functions and can accommodate all practical ranges of counts as generated by modern omic experiments. ACDtool is well suited for large datasets without replicates.

Availability and implementation

http://www.igs.cnrs-mrs.fr/acdtool/

Supplementary information

Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Effects on the bycatch of eulachon and juvenile groundfish by altering the level of artificial illumination along an ocean shrimp trawl fishing line
Authors: Lomeli Mark J M , Groth Scott D , Blume Matthew T O , Herrmann Bent , Wakefield W Waldo
Published: July 2018

We examined how catches of ocean shrimp (Pandalus jordani), eulachon (Thaleichthys pacificus), and juvenile groundfish could be affected by altering the level of artificial illumination along the fishing line of an ocean shrimp trawl. In the ocean shrimp trawl fishery, catches of eulachon are of special concern, as the species’ southern Distinct Population Segment is listed as “threatened” under the US Endangered Species Act. Using a double-rigged trawl vessel, with one trawl illuminated and the other unilluminated, we compared the catch efficiencies for ocean shrimp, eulachon, and juvenile groundfish between an unilluminated trawl and trawls illuminated with 5, 10, and 20 LED fishing lights along their fishing line. The addition of artificial illumination along the trawl fishing line significantly affected the average catch efficiency for eulachon, rockfish (Sebastes spp.), and flatfish, with the three LED configurations each catching significantly fewer individuals than the unilluminated trawl without impacting ocean shrimp catches. For Pacific hake (Merluccius productus), the ten LED-configured trawl caught significantly more fish than the unilluminated trawl. For the five and 20 LED configurations, mean Pacific hake catches did not differ from the unilluminated trawl. This study contributes new data on how artificial illumination can affect eulachon catches (and other fish) and contribute to their conservation.
Dissemination and Implementation of Evidence-Based Assessment
Authors: Jensen-Doss Amanda , Walsh Lucia M. , Ringle Vanesa Mora
Published: July 2018

Abstract: The goal of evidence-based practice in psychology (EBPP) is to improve public health through the application of research-supported assessment, case formulation, therapeutic relationship, and treatment approaches. Although EBPP is defined broadly, many efforts to improve practice have focused on treatment, with less attention paid to other aspects of practice. In this chapter, it is argued that significant work is needed to encourage the dissemination of information about evidence-based assessment (EBA) and its implementation in routine clinical practice. The chapter discusses how EBA differs from usual clinical assessment practices and describes efforts to increase the use of EBA. Finally, the chapter presents suggestions for steps that must be taken to advance the use of EBA in clinical settings.
Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Johnson Sheri L. , Miller Christopher , Eisner Lori
Published: July 2018

Abstract: Bipolar disorder, defined on the basis of manic symptoms, is one of the most severe psychiatric disorders. The disorder presents unique challenges to diagnosis, treatment, and prediction of outcome. Strong assessment tools can aid in making an appropriate diagnosis, identifying predictors of treatment response, and tracking the efficacy of treatment. This chapter focuses on the assessment of bipolar disorder in adults and youth. It begins with a review of the nature of the disorder, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing bipolar disorder in a clinically sensitive manner.
Specific Phobia and Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Rowa Karen , McCabe Randi E. , Antony Martin M.
Published: July 2018

Specific phobia and social anxiety disorder (SAD) share a number of features, but the focus of fear distinguishes between these anxiety disorders. In specific phobia, the excessive fear is focused on a particular situation or object, whereas in SAD, it is focused on one or more social and performance situations in which the individual fears acting in a way that will be embarrassing or lead to negative evaluation by others or revealing unbecoming personal attributes. The chapter focuses on the assessment of specific phobia and SAD in adults. It begins with a review of the nature of the disorders, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing these anxiety disorders in a clinically sensitive manner.
Sexual Dysfunction
Authors: Rosen Natalie O. , Glowacka Maria , Meana Marta , Binik Yitzchak M.
Published: July 2018

Abstract: Despite wide variation in prevalence rates for all sexual dysfunctions depending on the population and methodology in question, the numbers are staggering. With general prevalence figures for sexual problems reported to be as high as 40% in women and 28% in men, sexual difficulties seem close to normative. Once relegated strictly to sex therapists and sexologists, the assessment of sexual function is increasingly considered an integral part of an overall health assessment. This chapter focuses on the assessment of female and male sexual dysfunctions in adults. It begins with a review of the nature of the conditions, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing these conditions in a clinically sensitive manner.
Child and Adolescent Pain
Authors: McMurtry C. Meghan , McGrath Patrick J.
Published: July 2018

Pain is a complex, subjective state that has both sensory and emotional components. It is common throughout childhood. This chapter focuses on the assessment of pain and the effects of pain on the functioning of youth and their families across domains such as physical, emotional, and social role functioning, because the nature of pain requires assessment beyond simplistic pain intensity. It begins with a review of the nature of the condition, which is followed by a review of clinical assessment instruments designed for the assessment purposes of (a) diagnosis, (b) case conceptualization and treatment planning, and (c) treatment monitoring and evaluation. Recommendations are included for instruments with the greatest scientific support and for assessing pain in a clinically sensitive manner.
Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Depressed Preadolescents
Authors: Dietz Laura J. , Mufson Laura , Weinberg Rebecca B.
Published: July 2018

Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the rationale and basic principles for interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and for interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A), a developmental adaptation that is designed to treat adolescents, ages 12 to 18 years, with depression. The heart of this book introduces family-based interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed preadolescents (FB-IPT), a psychosocial treatment for preadolescent depression for children between 7 and 12 years. FB-IPT is conceptually rooted in an interpersonal model of depression and in developmental research on the antecedents of depression in youth. FB-IPT focuses on improving two domains of interpersonal impairment in depressed preadolescents—parent–child conflict and peer impairment—as a means to decrease preadolescents’ depressive symptoms. Stronger interpersonal skills and relationships buffer depressed preadolescents from stressors that arise during this important developmental period. Research shows that preadolescent depression is an important public health concern because it is often a gateway condition that increases the risk for recurrent depression in adolescence. Preteen depression not only interferes with normative social development at a formative period but also results in residual impairments in interpersonal functioning, which may increase risk for recurrent depression into adolescence and adulthood. Effective interventions for depression in the preadolescent period that target family and interpersonal risk factors may reduce risk for depression recurrence in adolescence. Chapters 5 through 17 of this Therapist Guide describe in detail the steps for conducting FB-IPT with depressed preadolescents and their parents.
Session 9: “Have a Few Solutions in Mind”
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 13 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the ninth session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT), in which the therapist introduces problem-solving strategies (“Have a Few Solutions in Mind”)with the preadolescent and the parent. The therapist revisits the depression circle to identify a problem to solve and presents techniques that encourage compromise (“Meet in the Middle”) and negotiation (“Let’s Make a Deal”). In working with the preadolescent to propose a solution to an identified problem, the therapist incorporates many of the communications skills presented in earlier sessions, such as “Give to Get” and “Make ‘I Feel’ Statements.” Dyadic role-plays focus on helping preadolescents and parents identify and communicate their wants and/or concerns about problematic issues, as well as possible solutions that can be implemented and revised.
Session 13: Identifying Early Warning Signs for Depression Recurrence
Authors: Dietz Laura J.
Published: July 2018

Chapter 16 of Family-based Interpersonal Psychotherapy (FB-IPT) for Depressed Preadolescents presents the thirteenth session of family-based interpersonal therapy (FB-IPT) in which the therapist helps the preadolescent identify potential stressors that may trigger another depressive episode, emphasizing the need to be aware of early warning signs (e.g., not sleeping well, loss of appetite) that may signal a relapse or recurrence. The preadolescent is also supported in talking about these stressors and early warning signs with her parent. With the therapist’s continued assistance, the preteen enlists the parent’s help to monitor her stress and changes in functioning to catch any future episodes of depression as early as possible.
A Case of Lassa Fever Diagnosed at a Community Hospital—Minnesota 2014
Authors: Choi Mary J , Worku Shewangizaw , Knust Barbara , Vang Arnold , Lynfield Ruth , Mount Mark R , Objio Tina , Brown Shelley , Griffith Jayne , Hulbert Deborah , Lippold Susan , Ervin Elizabeth , Ströher Ute , Holzbauer Stacy , Slattery Wendolyn , Washburn Faith , Harper Jane , Koeck Mackenzie , Uher Carol , Rollin Pierre , Nichol Stuart , Else Ryan , DeVries Aaron
Published: July 2018

Background

In April 2014, a 46-year-old returning traveler from Liberia was transported by emergency medical services to a community hospital in Minnesota with fever and altered mental status. Twenty-four hours later, he developed gingival bleeding. Blood samples tested positive for Lassa fever RNA by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

Methods

Blood and urine samples were obtained from the patient and tested for evidence of Lassa fever virus infection. Hospital infection control personnel and health department personnel reviewed infection control practices with health care personnel. In addition to standard precautions, infection control measures were upgraded to include contact, droplet, and airborne precautions. State and federal public health officials conducted contract tracing activities among family contacts, health care personnel, and fellow airline travelers.

Results

The patient was discharged from the hospital after 14 days. However, his recovery was complicated by the development of near complete bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Lassa virus RNA continued to be detected in his urine for several weeks after hospital discharge. State and federal public health authorities identified and monitored individuals who had contact with the patient while he was ill. No secondary cases of Lassa fever were identified among 75 contacts.

Conclusions

Given the nonspecific presentation of viral hemorrhagic fevers, isolation of ill travelers and consistent implementation of basic infection control measures are key to preventing secondary transmission. When consistently applied, these measures can prevent secondary transmission even if travel history information is not obtained, not immediately available, or the diagnosis of a viral hemorrhagic fever is delayed.
Infectious Complications of Multiple Sclerosis Therapies: Implications for Screening, Prophylaxis, and Management
Authors: Epstein David J , Dunn Jeffrey , Deresinski Stan
Published: July 2018

Multiple sclerosis therapies include interferons, glatiramer, and multiple immunosuppressive drugs. Discerning infectious risks of immunosuppressive drugs requires understanding their mechanisms of action and analyzing interventional studies and postmarketing observational data. Though identical immunosuppressive therapies are sometimes used in non-neurologic conditions, infectious risks may differ in this population. Screening for and treatment of latent tuberculosis (TB) infection should be prioritized for patients receiving alemtuzumab; ocrelizumab is likely not associated with an increased risk of TB. Hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation can be devastating for patients treated with ocrelizumab and alemtuzumab, whereas the small molecule oral agents do not likely pose substantial risk of HBV. Progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy is a particular concern with natalizumab. Alemtuzumab, and possibly natalizumab and fingolimod, risks herpes virus reactivation and may warrant prophylaxis. Unusual opportunistic infections have been described. Vaccination is an important tool in preventing infections, though vaccine timing and contraindications can be complex.
Chemosensory bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are activated by multiple antibiotics
Authors: Jaggupilli Appalaraju , Singh Nisha , De Jesus Vivianne Cruz , Gounni Mohamed Soussi , Dhanaraj Premnath , Chelikani Prashen
Published: July 2018

Many medications including antibiotics taste bitter. The potency of these antibiotics on the 25 bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) in humans remains poorly understood. Here we characterize by sensory and structure‐function analyses how antibiotics frequently used to treat airway infections in cystic fibrosis activate multiple human T2Rs. The potency of the broad‐spectrum antibiotics, tobramycin, levofloxacin, and azithromycin on the highly expressed T2Rs in airways, T2R4, T2R14, and T2R20 was pursued. The amino acids and structural features of T2R4, T2R14, and T2R20 important for antibiotic binding were characterized by mutational analysis in heterologous cell‐based assays. Strikingly, extracellular loop 2 in T2Rs performs a key function in binding to antibiotics with contribution from residues in transmembrane helices. Our results suggest that different antibiotics activate multiple T2Rs with different potencies. An understanding of the nonantibiotic and physiologic effects mediated through T2Rs on the host cells is much needed.—Jaggupilli, A., Singh, N., De Jesus, V. C., Gounni, M. S., Dhanaraj, P., Chelikani, P. Chemosensory bitter taste receptors (T2Rs) are activated by multiple antibiotics. FASEB J. 33, 501–517 (2019). www.fasebj.org