bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interventions for Supporting and Assessing Science Writing Communication: Cases of Asian English Language Learners
Authors: Smith-Keiling Beverly L. , Swanson Lidia K. , Dehnbostel Joanne M.
Published: June 2018

In seeking to support diversity, one challenge lies in adequately supporting and assessing science cognitions in a writing-intensive Biochemistry laboratory course when highly engaged Asian English language learners (Asian ELLs) struggle to communicate and make novice errors in English. Because they may understand advanced science concepts, but are not being adequately assessed for their deeper scientific understanding, we sought and examined interventions. We hypothesized that inquiry strategies, scaffolded learning through peer evaluation, and individualized tools that build writing communication skills would increase confidence. To assess scientific thinking, Linguistic Inquiry Word Count (LIWC) software measured underlying analytic and cognitive features of writing despite grammatical errors. To determine whether interventions improved student experience or learning outcomes, we investigated a cross-sectional sample of cases within experimental groups (n= 19) using a mixed-methods approach. Overall trends of paired t-tests from Asian ELLs’ pre/post surveys showed gains in six measures of writing confidence, with some statistically significant gains in confidence in writing skill (p=0.025) and in theory (p≤0.05). LIWC scores for Asian ELL and native-English-speaking students were comparable except for increased cognitive scores for Asian ELLs and detectable individual differences. An increase in Asian ELLs’ cognitive scores in spring/summer over fall was observed (p= 0.04), likely as a result of greater cognitive processes with language use, inquiry-related interventions, and peer evaluation. Individual cases further elucidated challenges faced by Asian ELL students. LIWC scores of student writing may be useful in determining underlying understanding. Interventions designed to provide support and strengthen the writing of Asian ELL students may also improve their confidence in writing, even if improvement is gradual.
Incidence and clinical characteristics of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction
Authors: Sathiamoorthi Saraniya , Frank Ryan D , Mohney Brian G
Published: June 2018

Background/aims

The literature on the prevalence and demographics of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction (CNLDO) is 30–70 years old and largely comprises small sample sizes. This study provides epidemiological findings of this common disorder from the largest cohort reported to date.

Methods

The medical records of all children (<5 years of age) residing in Olmsted County, Minnesota, when diagnosed with CNLDO from 1 January 1995 through 31 December 2004, were reviewed.

Results

Of 17 713 newborns born during the 10-year study period, 1998 were diagnosed with CNLDO, yielding a birth prevalence of one in nine live births. The diagnosis was made in approximately 90% by a primary care physician, at a median age of 5 weeks, with no gender predilection. Compared with the reference population, CNLDO was associated with premature birth (p=0.005) and was more prevalent among Caucasians (p<0.001). Two-thirds of patients initially presented with discharge alone, 18% with tearing alone and 15% with both discharge and tearing.

Conclusions

In this large population-based cohort, CNLDO occurred in one in nine live births with no gender predilection. Prematurity and Caucasian race were associated with the development of CNLDO. Mucopurulent discharge was a much more common feature than tearing at initial presentation.
Characteristics and outcomes of adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and atrial fibrillation
Authors: Durheim Michael T , Holmes DaJuanicia N , Blanco Rosalia G , Allen Larry A , Chan Paul S , Freeman James V , Fonarow Gregg C , Go Alan S , Hylek Elaine M , Mahaffey Kenneth W , Pokorney Sean D , Reiffel James A , Singer Daniel E , Peterson Eric D , Piccini Jonathan P
Published: June 2018

Objective

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is associated with the development of atrial fibrillation (AF), and may complicate treatment of AF. We examined the association between COPD and symptoms, quality of life (QoL), treatment and outcomes among patients with AF.

Methods

We compared patients with and without a diagnosis of COPD in the Outcomes Registry for Better Informed Treatment of Atrial Fibrillation, a prospective registry that enrolled outpatients with AF not secondary to reversible causes, from both academic and community settings.

Results

Among 9749 patients with AF, 1605 (16%) had COPD. Relative to patients without COPD, those with COPD were more likely to be older, current/former smokers (73% vs 43%), have heart failure (54% vs 29%) and coronary artery disease (49% vs 34%). Oral anticoagulant and beta blocker use were similar, whereas digoxin use was more common among patients with COPD. Symptom burden was generally higher, and QoL worse, among patients with COPD (median Atrial Fibrillation Effect on QualiTy-of-Life score 76 vs 83). Patients with COPD had higher risk of all-cause mortality (adjusted HR 1.52 (95% CI 1.32 to 1.74)), cardiovascular mortality (adjusted HR 1.51 (95% CI 1.24 to 1.84)) and cardiovascular hospitalisation (adjusted HR 1.15 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.26)). Patients with COPD also had higher risk of major bleeding events (adjusted HR 1.25 (95% CI 1.05 to 1.50)). There did not appear to be associations between COPD and AF progression, ischaemic events or new-onset heart failure.

Conclusions

Among patients with AF, COPD is associated with higher symptom burden, worse QoL, and worse cardiovascular and bleeding outcomes. These associations were not fully explained by cardiovascular risk factors, AF treatment or smoking history.

Clinical registration number

NCT01165710
Validity of inducible ischaemia as a surrogate for adverse outcomes in stable coronary artery disease
Authors: Timmis Adam , Raharja Antony , Archbold R Andrew , Mathur Anthony
Published: June 2018

Regional myocardial ischaemia is commonly expressed as exertional angina in patients with stable coronary artery disease (CAD). It also associates with prognosis, risk tending to increase with the severity of ischaemia. The validity of myocardial ischaemia as a surrogate for adverse clinical outcomes, however, has not been well established. Thus, in cohort studies, ischaemia testing has failed to influence rates of myocardial infarction and coronary death. Moreover, in clinical studies, pharmacological and interventional treatments that are effective in correcting ischaemia have rarely been shown to reduce cardiovascular (CV) risk. This contrasts with statins and other anti-inflammatory drugs that have no direct effect on ischaemia but improve CV outcomes by modifying the atherothrombotic disease process. Despite this, and with little evidence of patient benefit, stress testing is commonly used during the follow-up of patients with stable CAD when the demonstration of ischaemic change may be seen as a target for treatment, independently of symptomatic status. Substitution of a symptom-driven management strategy has the potential to reduce rates of non-invasive stress testing, unnecessary downstream revascularisation procedures and use of valuable resources in patients with stable CAD without adverse consequences for CV risk.
Work-unit social capital and long-term sickness absence: a prospective cohort study of 32 053 hospital employees
Authors: Török Eszter , Clark Alice Jessie , Jensen Johan Høy , Lange Theis , Bonde Jens Peter , Bjorner Jakob Bue , Rugulies Reiner , Hvidtfeldt Ulla Arthur , Hansen Åse Marie , Ersbøll Annette Kjær , Rod Naja Hulvej
Published: June 2018

Objective

There is a lack of studies investigating social capital at the workplace level in small and relatively homogeneous work-units. The aim of the study was to investigate whether work-unit social capital predicts a lower risk of individual long-term sickness absence among Danish hospital employees followed prospectively for 1 year.

Methods

This study is based on the Well-being in HospitAL Employees cohort. The study sample consisted of 32 053 individuals nested within 2182 work-units in the Capital Region of Denmark. Work-unit social capital was measured with an eight-item scale covering elements of trust, justice and collaboration between employees and leaders. Social capital at the work-unit level was computed as the aggregated mean of individual-level social capital within each work-unit. Data on long-term sickness absence were retrieved from the employers’ payroll system and were operationalised as ≥29 consecutive days of sickness absence. We used a 12-point difference in social capital as the metric in our analyses and conducted two-level hierarchical logistic regression analysis. Adjustments were made for sex, age, seniority, occupational group and part-time work at the individual level, and work-unit size, the proportion of female employees and the proportion of part-time work at the work-unit level.

Results

The OR for long-term sickness absence associated with a 12-point higher work-unit social capital was 0.73 (95% CI 0.68 to 0.78). Further, we found an association between higher work-unit social capital and lower long-term sickness absence across quartiles of social capital: compared with the lowest quartile, the OR for long-term sickness absence in the highest quartile was 0.51 (95% CI 0.44 to 0.60).

Conclusion

Our study provides support for work-unit social capital being a protective factor for individual long-term sickness absence among hospital employees in the Capital Region of Denmark.
Cerebral vasoconstriction after carotid endarterectomy
Authors: Fitas Diogo , Carvalho Marta , Castro Pedro , Abreu Pedro , Moreira Goreti , Santos Rosa , Azevedo Elsa
Published: June 2018

Carotid endarterectomy carries the risk of several complications. We report a 55-year-old woman with recurrent cerebral vasoconstriction postoperatively. She had bilateral high-grade internal carotid artery stenosis and underwent right endarterectomy because of transient left-sided sensory symptoms. She developed a reperfusion syndrome with severe right-sided headache, right frontotemporal oedema and increased velocities in transcranial Doppler ultrasound. Given her gradual increase of velocities and Lindegaard index, together with fixed left sensory and motor deficits, we performed CT angiography, which suggested cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. A subsequent left carotid endarterectomy triggered a similar cerebrovascular response. We highlight the need for continuous monitoring of cerebral haemodynamics following carotid endarterectomy.
Intestinal damage following short-duration exercise at the same relative intensity is similar in temperate and hot environments
Authors: Sheahen Brodie L. , Fell James W. , Zadow Emma K. , Hartley Thomas F. , Kitic Cecilia M.
Published: June 2018

Increasing temperature and exercise disrupt tight junctions of the gastrointestinal tract although the contribution of environmental temperature to intestinal damage when exercising is unknown. This study investigated the effect of 2 different environmental temperatures on intestinal damage when exercising at the same relative intensity. Twelve men (mean ± SD; body mass, 81.98 ± 7.95 kg; height, 182.6 ± 7.4 cm) completed randomised cycling trials (45 min, 70% maximal oxygen uptake) in 30 °C/40% relative humidity (RH) and 20 °C/40%RH. A subset of participants (n = 5) also completed a seated passive trial (30 °C/40%RH). Rectal temperature and thermal sensation (TSS) were recorded during each trial and venous blood samples collected at pre- and post-trial for the analysis of intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (I-FABP) level as a marker of intestinal damage. Oxygen uptake was similar between 30 °C and 20 °C exercise trials, as intended (p = 0.94). I-FABP increased after exercise at 30 °C (pre-exercise: 585 ± 188 pg·mL−1; postexercise: 954 ± 411 pg·mL−1) and 20 °C (pre-exercise: 571 ± 175 pg·mL−1; postexercise: 852 ± 317 pg·mL−1) (p < 0.0001) but the magnitude of damage was similar between temperatures (p = 0.58). There was no significant increase in I-FABP concentration following passive heat exposure (p = 0.59). Rectal temperature increased during exercise trials (p < 0.001), but not the passive trial (p = 0.084). TSS increased more when exercising in 30 °C compared with 20 °C (p < 0.001). There was an increase in TSS during the passive heat trial (p = 0.03). Intestinal damage, as measured by I-FABP, following exercise in the heat was similar to when exercising in a cooler environment at the same relative intensity. Passive heat exposure did not increase I-FABP. It is suggested that when exercising in conditions of compensable heat stress, the increase in intestinal damage is predominantly attributable to the exercise component, rather than environmental conditions.
Apparent metabolizable energy values ofn-6 andn-3 rich lipid sources for laying hens
Authors: Araujo Robert Guaracy Aparecido Cardoso , do Valle Polycarpo Gustavo , Laurentiz Antonio Carlos , Amaral Victor Hugo Alderenike , Giacomini Polyana Vellone , de Lima Gabrieli Andressa , da Silva Barbosa Barbara Fernanda , Ventura Gabriela , Cruz-Polycarpo Valquíria Cação
Published: June 2018

The objective of this research was to evaluate the nitrogen-corrected apparent metabolizable energy (AMEn) balance of the following lipid sources: soybean oil, sunflower oil, linseed oil, and fish oil. Two hundred eighty 24-wk-old laying hens of the Hysex White were used. The experimental diets consisted of a basal diet (reference group), basal diet + 10% soybean oil addition (group 1), basal diet + 10% sunflower oil addition (group 2), basal diet + 10% linseed oil addition (group 3), and basal diet + 10% fish oil addition (group 4), distributed in a completely randomized design with seven replicates and eight birds per experimental unit. The metabolic assay was performed by the total excreta collection method. The AMEn values found in the natural material were 9 334 kcal kg−1for soybean oil, 10 533 kcal kg−1for sunflower oil, 10 928 kcal kg−1for linseed oil, and 9 005 kcal kg−1for fish oil. The AMEn were different among the lipid sources. Sunflower oil and linseed oil had higher AMEn compared with soybean oil and fish oil (P < 0.05). The AMEn of the lipid sources of plant origin had higher values than the gross energy. The fatty acid profile of each lipid source was presented in this work. Thus, it is important to have individual nutritional information for each type of oil for laying hens, making it possible to formulate more appropriate and accurate feed.
Antifungal activities of cytochalasins produced byDiaporthe miriciae, an endophytic fungus associated with tropical medicinal plants
Authors: Carvalho C.R. de , Ferreira-D’Silva A. , Wedge D.E. , Cantrell C.L. , Rosa L.H.
Published: June 2018

In the present study, we evaluated the antifungal potential of cytochalasins produced by Diaporthe taxa against phytopathogenic fungi. Using molecular methods, seven endophytic fungal strains from the medicinal plants Copaifera pubiflora and Melocactus ernestii were identified as Diaporthe miriciae, while two isolates were identified to the genus level (Diaporthe sp.). All crude extracts of Diaporthe species produced via solid-state fermentation were evaluated by1H NMR analyses. Crude extracts of the isolates D. miriciae UFMGCB 6350, 7719, 7646, 7653, 7701, 7772, and 7770 and Diaporthe sp. UFMGCB 7696 and 7720 were demonstrated to produce highly functionalized compounds. The extracts of D. miriciae UFMGCB 7719 and 6350 were selected as representative Diaporthe samples and subjected to bioassay-directed fractionation to isolate cytochalasins H and J. Cytochalasins H and J were evaluated for activities against the fungal plant pathogens Colletotrichum fragariae, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Colletotrichum acutatum, Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, Phomopsis obscurans, and Phomopsis viticola using microdilution broth assays. Cytochalasins H and J exhibited the most potent activities against the Phomopsis species tested. Our results showed that Diaporthe species were potential producers of different cytochalasins, which exhibit potential for controlling fungal diseases in planta and (or) maintaining antagonism.
Thermal Light Longitudinal Correlated Imaging with Random Orthogonal Matching Pursuit Algorithm
Authors: Gao Lu , Xiao Ke , Song Hanquan , Qi Xiaoman
Published: June 2018

A thermal light correlated longitudinal imaging experiment is proposed. The quasi-thermal light beam is split into two beams, a test beam and a reference beam, respectively. The light in the test beam is scattered by two amplitude objects with a specific longitudinal distance between them, while the light of the reference beam travels uninterrupted. At the end of the test and reference beams, two charge-coupled detectors (CCDs) are used to measure the intensity of the optical field. Through intensity correlation measurement the images of the two detected objects can be achieved simultaneously, only if the distance between the objects is less than the longitudinal coherent length. The theoretical analysis shows that the longitudinal coherent length is determined by both the transverse size of the incoherent thermal light source and the length of the optical path. The quality of the correlated images of the two objects is improved greatly by making use of the orthogonal matching pursuit (OMP) and the proposed variant random orthogonal matching pursuit (Random-OMP) algorithms. The experimental results show that the Random-OMP algorithm is more effective than the OMP algorithm for increasing both the visibility and continuity of the images. The experimental scenario can mimic an optical tomography imaging system, and the two objects with longitudinal distance can be taken as the two transverse layers of a three-dimensional object. The proposed Random-OMP algorithm is effective for improving the quality of the tomography image and has potential value in optical tomography imaging technology using incoherent light sources.
A New Asymmetric and Cascaded Switched Diode Multilevel Inverter Topology for Reduced Switches, DC Source and Blocked Voltage on Switches
Authors: Ahamed Ibrahim S. A. , Anbalagan P. , Jagabar Sathik M. A.
Published: June 2018

In this paper, a new asymmetric switched diode (ASD) multilevel inverter is presented for medium-voltage and high-power applications. The proposed converter consists of series connection basic unit with full-bridge inverter. In addition to this, a cascaded switched diode (CSD) structure is recommended to generate the higher number of voltage levels. Seven different algorithms are presented to determine the magnitudes of DC sources in CSD topology. To prove the advantages of proposed multilevel converter over recent multilevel converters in terms of blocking voltage, numbers of IGBTs and on-state switches are presented. To show the authority of the proposed multilevel inverter, it is simulated using MATLAB/Simulink and is experimentally tested using prototype model for 13-level inverter. Finally, various output voltage and current waveforms are shown to prove the dynamic behavior of proposed inverter.
Diffusive behavior of ergodic sums over rotations
Authors: Conze Jean-Pierre , Isola Stefano , Le Borgne Stéphane
Published: June 2018

For a rotation by an irrational [Formula: see text] on the circle and a BV function [Formula: see text], we study the variance of the ergodic sums [Formula: see text]. When [Formula: see text] is not of constant type, we construct sequences [Formula: see text] such that, at some scale, the ergodic sums [Formula: see text] satisfy an ASIP. Explicit non-degenerate examples are given with an application to the rectangular periodic billiard in the plane.
Photophysical properties and photodynamic anti-tumor activity of corrole-coumarin dyads
Authors: Cheng Fan , Wang Hua-Hua , Ali Atif , Kandhadi Jaipal , Wang Hui , Wang Xiang-Li , Liu Hai-Yang
Published: June 2018

A new non-conjugated corrole-coumarin dyad and its gallium complex has been synthesized. Photophysical properties of the dyads were tested in two solvents, exhibiting strong solvent effect on the absorption and fluorescence spectra. Absorption spectra of the dyads are a linear combination of the spectra of their corresponding monomers, demonstrating a negligible electronic communication between coumarin and corrole moiety. However, fluorescence emission of coumarin entity in all dyads were quenched significantly as compared to pristine coumarin; this was attributed to intramolecular energy transfer from coumarin to the corrole. Photodynamic anti-tumor tests revealed that gallium corrole-coumarin dyads (2-Ga) exhibited good PDT activity towards SiHa cells. After PDT treatment, 2-Ga could induce apoptosis in SiHa cells, which was associated to cell S phase arrest, collapse of the mitochondrial membrane potential and increase of the intracellular ROS level.
Ab initio study of C20 nanocluster effects on electrochemical properties of tetraphenylporphyrin
Authors: Ekrami Saeid , Shamlouei Hamid Reza
Published: June 2018

The Density Functional Theory (DFT) method was employed to study the properties of the C[Formula: see text] complex with tetraphenylporphyrin (TPP). Calculations were performed in vacuum and in the presence of different solvents. Strong interaction between the C[Formula: see text] cluster and TPP molecule was observed. To understand the effect of C[Formula: see text] on electrochemical properties of TPP, electron transfers from and toward the porphyrin and C[Formula: see text]-TPP complex were studied. It was shown that the presence of C[Formula: see text] influences the electron transfer reaction toward the porphyrin molecule and causes transfer of one and two electrons to C[Formula: see text]-porphyrin, which is more favorable compared with porphyrin alone. However, C[Formula: see text] has slight effect on electron transfer from porphyrin and on positive ion formation. The effect of solvent type on electron transfer energy was studied for these reactions, and it was shown that solvents with higher permittivity have lower electron transfer reaction energy, which may be predicted from ionic character of the products.
Nanotechnology in Generation and Biomedical Application of Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
Authors: Tang Hailing , Rui Mengjie , Yu Chuang , Chu Tao , Li Chao , Zhan Zhenzhen , Cao Hao , Li Hangwen , Liu Zhongmin , Shen Haifa
Published: June 2018

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) have a tremendous potential in biomedical applications. Nanotechnology has played an essential role on reprogramming iPSCs. In the current review, we will summarize recent progress on application of nanoparticles and other nanotechnology-based platforms in iPSC generation and in study of iPSC biology. We will also highlight the importance of nanotechnology on biomedical application of iPSCs.
Analysis of triple-band binary metamaterial absorber based on low-permittivity all-dielectric resonance surface
Authors: Wang Qiang , Wang Yan , Tang Xiu-Zhi , Huang Xiaozhong , Xiong Yijun , Zhang Fen
Published: June 2018

Different from the conventional metamaterial absorbers (MAs), which used metal resonance surface and ternary structure (metal–dielectric-backplane), as an alternative route, the all-dielectric resonance surface (ADRS) made of single low-permittivity dielectric is proposed to design binary (dielectric backplane) metamaterial absorber (BMA). As an illustration, a triple-band BMA composed of ADRS with a metallic backplane is designed and fabricated, where the ADRS incorporates two dielectric layers with different hole-array structures. The absorbing mechanisms of this kind of absorber are analyzed via analyzing configurations of power loss density, electric field and magnetic field, as well as investigating dependences of absorbing properties on structure dimensions. The study indicates that the structural design of ADRS leads to reverse magnetic field rings distributed inside the dielectric, forming the strong couplings at the resonance frequencies. The proposed BMA relies on low-permittivity ADRS, with the rapid preparation and low cost greatly simplifying the design of MAs. The current concept is also suitable to design multi-band and broadband MAs worked at other bands, by changing the structural design of ADRS.
Development of a palaeovalley complex on a Late Ordovician glaciated margin in NW Saudi Arabia
Authors: Tofaif S. , Le Heron D. P. , Melvin J.
Published: June 2018

Late Ordovician glacial deposits are of great importance in North Africa and the Middle East as a result of their significance as reservoirs for hydrocarbons and groundwater. The sedimentary record of this glaciation in NW Saudi Arabia (the Sarah Formation) is generally preserved in meridionally oriented palaeovalleys cut beneath northward-flowing ice sheets. In the Tabuk region of NW Saudi Arabia, an apparently intersecting complex of north–south- and east–west-oriented palaeovalleys occurs in the Alwizam area. Field relationships show two generations of palaeovalley incision, suggesting that the north–south-oriented palaeovalley was cut subglacially, filled, subsequently deformed and then cross-cut by the east–west-oriented palaeovalley. Abundant facetted and striated quartzite clasts occur at the base of each palaeovalley, testifying to a subglacial origin. Detailed examination of the north–south-oriented palaeovalley shows it to be well-defined with symmetrical sides. Its fill is composed of nine lithofacies grouped into four facies associations. About 80% of the fill consists of three sandstone facies: a parallel-bedded massive sandstone, a stacked scoured sandstone and a massive sandstone. Centimetre-scale extensional faults developed in soft sediments are commonly found throughout the stratigraphy, along with a glacially striated surface seen mid-way through the succession. These features provide evidence for direct ice contact, synglacial fill, and consequent reworking, cannibalization and deformation by the fluctuating ice margin.
Dynamical Evolution of the Early Solar System
Authors: Nesvorný David
Published: June 2018

Several properties of the Solar System, including the wide radial spacing of the giant planets, can be explained if planets radially migrated by exchanging orbital energy and momentum with outer disk planetesimals. Neptune's planetesimal-driven migration, in particular, has a strong advocate in the dynamical structure of the Kuiper belt. A dynamical instability is thought to have occurred during the early stages with Jupiter having close encounters with a Neptune-class planet. As a result of the encounters, Jupiter acquired its current orbital eccentricity and jumped inward by a fraction of an astronomical unit, as required for the survival of the terrestrial planets and from asteroid belt constraints. Planetary encounters also contributed to capture of Jupiter Trojans and irregular satellites of the giant planets. Here we discuss the dynamical evolution of the early Solar System with an eye to determining how models of planetary migration/instability can be constrained from its present architecture. Specifically, we review arguments suggesting that the Solar System may have originally contained a third ice giant on a resonant orbit between Saturn and Uranus. This hypothesized planet was presumably ejected into interstellar space during the instability. The Kuiper belt kernel and other dynamical structures in the trans-Neptunian region may provide evidence for the ejected planet. We favor the early version of the instability where Neptune migrated into the outer planetesimal disk within a few tens of millions of years after the dispersal of the protosolar nebula. If so, the planetary migration/instability was not the cause of the Late Heavy Bombardment. Mercury's orbit may have been excited during the instability.
The Ecology and Evolution of Alien Plants
Authors: van Kleunen Mark , Bossdorf Oliver , Dawson Wayne
Published: June 2018

We review the state of the art of alien plant research with emphasis on conceptual advances and knowledge gains on general patterns and drivers, biotic interactions, and evolution. Major advances include the identification of different invasion stages and invasiveness dimensions (geographic range, habitat specificity, local abundance) and the identification of appropriate comparators while accounting for propagule pressure and year of introduction. Developments in phylogenetic and functional trait research bear great promise for better understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Global patterns are emerging with propagule pressure, disturbance, increased resource availability, and climate matching as major invasion drivers, but species characteristics also play a role. Biotic interactions with resident communities shape invasion outcomes, with major roles for species diversity, enemies, novel weapons, and mutualists. Mounting evidence has been found for rapid evolution of invasive aliens and evolutionary responses of natives, but a mechanistic understanding requires tighter integration of molecular and phenotypic approaches. We hope the open questions identified in this review will stimulate further research on the ecology and evolution of alien plants.
Macroeconomic Nowcasting and Forecasting with Big Data
Authors: Bok Brandyn , Caratelli Daniele , Giannone Domenico , Sbordone Argia M. , Tambalotti Andrea
Published: June 2018

Data, data, data…. Economists know their importance well, especially when it comes to monitoring macroeconomic conditions—the basis for making informed economic and policy decisions. Handling large and complex data sets was a challenge that macroeconomists engaged in real-time analysis faced long before so-called big data became pervasive in other disciplines. We review how methods for tracking economic conditions using big data have evolved over time and explain how econometric techniques have advanced to mimic and automate best practices of forecasters on trading desks, at central banks, and in other market-monitoring roles. We present in detail the methodology underlying the New York Fed Staff Nowcast, which employs these innovative techniques to produce early estimates of GDP growth, synthesizing a wide range of macroeconomic data as they become available.
ZO-1 protein is required for hydrogen peroxide to increase MDCK cell paracellular permeability in an ERK 1/2-dependent manner
Authors: Bilal Sahar , Jaggi Shirin , Janosevic Danielle , Shah Nikita , Teymour Shereen , Voronina Angelina , Watari Jessica , Axis Josephine , Amsler Kurt
Published: June 2018

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) increases paracellular permeability of Madin-Darby canine kidney (MDCK) cells, but the mechanism mediating this effect remains unclear. Treatment of MDCK cells with H2O2 activated ERK 1/2. Inhibition of ERK 1/2 activation blocked the ability of H2O2 to increase paracellular permeability. Knockdown of zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) protein but not occludin eliminated the ability of H2O2 to increase paracellular permeability. H2O2 treatment did not, however, affect the total cell content or contents of the Triton X-100-soluble and -insoluble fractions for occludin, ZO-1, or ZO-2. H2O2 treatment decreased the number of F-actin stress fibers in the basal portion of the cells. Similar to wild-type MDCK cells, H2O2 increased ERK 1/2 activation in ZO-1 knockdown and occludin knockdown cells. Inhibition of ERK 1/2 activation blocked the increase in paracellular permeability in occludin knockdown cells. ZO-1 knockdown cell paracellular permeability was regulated by PP1, an src inhibitor, indicating that the loss of response to H2O2 was not a general loss of the ability to regulate the paracellular barrier. Inhibition of myosin ATPase activity with blebbistatin increased paracellular permeability in ZO-1 knockdown cells but not in wild-type MDCK cells. H2O2 treatment sensitized wild-type MDCK cells to inhibition of myosin ATPase. Knockdown of TOCA-1 protein, which promotes formation of local branched actin networks, reproduced the effects of ZO-1 protein knockdown. These results demonstrate that H2O2 increases MDCK cell paracellular permeability through activation of ERK 1/2. This H2O2 action requires ZO-1 protein and TOCA-1 protein, suggesting involvement of the actin cytoskeleton.
Mouse retinal pigment epithelial cells exhibit a thiocyanate-selective conductance
Authors: Cao Xu , Pattnaik Bikash R. , Hughes Bret A.
Published: June 2018

The basolateral membrane anion conductance of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a key component of the transepithelial Cl− transport pathway. Although multiple Cl− channels have been found to be expressed in the RPE, the components of the resting Cl− conductance have not been identified. In this study, we used the patch-clamp method to characterize the ion selectivity of the anion conductance in isolated mouse RPE cells and in excised patches of RPE basolateral and apical membranes. Relative permeabilities ( PA/ PCl) calculated from reversal potentials measured in intact cells under bi-ionic conditions were as follows: SCN− >> ClO4− > [Formula: see text] > I− > Br− > Cl− >> gluconate. Relative conductances ( GA/ GCl) followed a similar trend of SCN− >> ClO4− > [Formula: see text] > I− > Br− ≈Cl− >> gluconate. Whole cell currents were highly time-dependent in 10 mM external SCN−, reflecting collapse of the electrochemical potential gradient due to SCN− accumulation or depletion intracellularly. When the membrane potential was held at −120 mV to minimize SCN− accumulation in cells exposed to 10 mM SCN−, the instantaneous current reversed at −90 mV, revealing that PSCN/ PCl is approximately 500. Macroscopic current recordings from outside-out patches demonstrated that both the basolateral and apical membranes exhibit SCN− conductances, with the basolateral membrane having a larger SCN− current density and higher relative permeability for SCN−. Our results suggest that the RPE basolateral and apical membranes contain previously unappreciated anion channels or electrogenic transporters that may mediate the transmembrane fluxes of SCN− and Cl−.
Activation of catecholamine neurons in the ventral medulla reduces CCK-induced hypophagia and c-Fos activation in dorsal medullary catecholamine neurons
Authors: Li Ai-Jun , Wang Qing , Ritter Sue
Published: June 2018

Catecholamine (CA) neurons within the A1 and C1 cell groups in the ventrolateral medulla (VLM) potently increase food intake when activated by glucose deficit. In contrast, CA neurons in the A2 cell group of the dorsomedial medulla are required for reduction of food intake by cholecystokinin (CCK), a peptide that promotes satiation. Thus dorsal and ventral medullary CA neurons are activated by divergent metabolic conditions and mediate opposing behavioral responses. Acute glucose deficit is a life-threatening condition, and increased feeding is a key response that facilitates survival of this emergency. Thus, during glucose deficit, responses to satiation signals, like CCK, must be suppressed to ensure glucorestoration. Here we test the hypothesis that activation of VLM CA neurons inhibits dorsomedial CA neurons that participate in satiation. We found that glucose deficit produced by the antiglycolytic glucose analog, 2-deoxy-d-glucose, attenuated reduction of food intake by CCK. Moreover, glucose deficit increased c-Fos expression by A1 and C1 neurons while reducing CCK-induced c-Fos expression in A2 neurons. We also selectively activated A1/C1 neurons in TH-Cre+ transgenic rats in which A1/C1 neurons were transfected with a Cre-dependent designer receptor exclusively activated by a designer drug (DREADD). Selective activation of A1/C1 neurons using the DREADD agonist, clozapine- N-oxide, attenuated reduction of food intake by CCK and prevented CCK-induced c-Fos expression in A2 CA neurons, even under normoglycemic conditions. Results support the hypothesis that activation of ventral CA neurons attenuates satiety by inhibiting dorsal medullary A2 CA neurons. This mechanism may ensure that satiation does not terminate feeding before restoration of normoglycemia.
Sodium intake but not renal nerves attenuates renal venous pressure-induced changes in renal hemodynamics in rats
Authors: Huang Xiaohua , Hamza Shereen M. , Zhuang Wenqing , Cupples William A. , Braam Branko
Published: June 2018

Increased central venous pressure and renal venous pressure (RVP) are associated with worsening of renal function in acute exacerbation of congestive heart failure. We tested whether an acute isolated elevation of RVP in one kidney leads to ipsilateral renal vasoconstriction and decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and whether this depends on dietary salt intake or activation of renal nerves. Male Lewis rats received a normal (1% NaCl, NS) or high-salt (6% NaCl) diet for ≥14 days before the acute experiment. Rats were then randomized into the following three groups: time control and RVP elevation to either 10 or 20 mmHg to assess heart rate, renal blood flow (RBF), and GFR. To increase RVP, the left renal vein was partially occluded for 120 min. To determine the role of renal nerves, surgical denervation was conducted in rats on both diets. Renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) was additionally recorded in a separate group of rats. Increasing RVP to 20 mmHg decreased ipsilateral RBF (7.5 ± 0.4 to 4.1 ± 0.7 ml/min, P < 0.001), renal vascular conductance (0.082 ± 0.006 to 0.060 ± 0.011 ml·min−1·mmHg−1, P < 0.05), and GFR (1.28 ± 0.08 to 0.40 ± 0.13 ml/min, P < 0.05) in NS rats. The reduction was abolished by high-salt diet but not by renal denervation. Furthermore, a major increase of RVP (1.6 ± 0.8 to 24.7 ± 1.2 mmHg) immediately suppressed RSNA and decreased heart rate ( P < 0.05), which points to suppression of both local and systemic sympathetic activity. Taken together, acute elevated RVP induces renal vasoconstriction and decreased GFR, which is more likely to be mediated via the renin-angiotensin system than via renal nerves.
Adiponectin attenuates kidney injury and fibrosis in deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt and angiotensin II-induced CKD mice
Authors: Tian Mi , Tang Li , Wu Yuanyuan , Beddhu Srinivasan , Huang Yufeng
Published: June 2018

Adiponectin (ApN) is a multifunctional adipokine. However, high, rather than low, concentrations of ApN are unexpectedly found in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) via an as yet unknown mechanism, and the role of ApN in CKD is unclear. Herein, we investigated the effect of ApN overexpression on progressive renal injury resulting from deoxycorticosterone acetate-salt (DOCA) and angiotensin II (ANG II) infusion using a transgenic, inducible ApN-overexpressing mouse model. Three groups of mice [wild type receiving no infusion (WT) and WT and cytochrome P450 1a1 (cyp1a1)-ApN transgenic mice (ApN-Tg) receiving DOCA+ANG II infusion (WT/DOCA+ANG II and ApN-Tg/DOCA+ANG II)] were assigned to receive normal food containing 0.15% of the transgene inducer indole-3-carbinol (I3C) for 3 wk. In the I3C-induced ApN-Tg/DOCA+ANG II mice, not the WT or WT/DOCA+ANG II mice, overexpression of ApN in liver resulted in 3.15-fold increases in circulating ApN compared with nontransgenic controls. Of note, the transgenic mice receiving DOCA+ANG II infusion were still hypertensive but had much less albuminuria and glomerular and tubulointerstitial fibrosis, which were associated with ameliorated podocyte injury determined by ameliorated podocyte loss and foot process effacement, and alleviated tubular injury determined by ameliorated mRNA overexpression of kidney injury molecule-1 and neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and mRNA decreases of cubilin and megalin in tubular cells, compared with WT/DOCA+ANG II mice. In addition, renal production of NF-κB-p65, NAPDH oxidase 2, and p47phoxand MAPK-related cellular proliferation, which were induced in WT/DOCA+ANG II mice, were markedly reduced in ApN-Tg/DOCA+ANG II mice. These results indicate that elevated ApN in the CKD mouse model is renal protective. Enhancing ApN production or signaling may have therapeutic potential for CKD.
Stability of hand force production. II. Ascending and descending synergies
Authors: Reschechtko Sasha , Latash Mark L.
Published: June 2018

We combined the theory of neural control of movement with referent coordinates and the uncontrolled manifold hypothesis to investigate multifinger coordination. We tested hypotheses related to stabilization of performance by covarying control variables, translated into apparent stiffness and referent coordinate, at different levels of an assumed hierarchy of control. Subjects produced an accurate combination of total force and total moment of force with the four fingers under visual feedback on both variables and after feedback was partly or completely removed. The “inverse piano” device was used to estimate control variables. We observed strong synergies in the space of hypothetical control variables that stabilized total force and moment of force, as well as weaker synergies stabilizing individual finger forces; whereas the former were attenuated by alteration of visual feedback, the latter were much less affected. In addition, we investigated the organization of “ascending synergies” stabilizing task-level control variables by covaried adjustments of finger-level control variables. We observed intertrial covariation of individual fingers’ referent coordinates that stabilized hand-level referent coordinate, but we observed no such covariation for apparent stiffness. The observations suggest the existence of both descending and ascending synergies in a hierarchical control system. They confirm a trade-off between synergies at different levels of control and corroborate the hypothesis on specialization of different fingers for the control of force and moment. The results provide strong evidence for the importance of central back-coupling loops in ensuring stability of action.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We expand analysis of action in the space of hypothetical control variables to hierarchically organized multieffector systems. We also introduce the novel concept of ascending synergies, which reflect covariation of control variables to individual effectors (fingers) that stabilize task-specific control variables at a hierarchically higher, task-specific level (hand).
Effects of nidopallium caudolaterale inactivation on serial-order behavior in pigeons (Columba livia)
Authors: Johnston Melissa , Clarkson Andrew N. , Gowing Emma K. , Scarf Damian , Colombo Michael
Published: June 2018

Serial-order behavior is the ability to complete a sequence of responses in a predetermined order to achieve a reward. In birds, serial-order behavior is thought to be impaired by damage to the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL). In the current study, we examined the role of the NCL in serial-order behavior by training pigeons on a 4-item serial-order task and a go/no-go discrimination task. Following training, pigeons received infusions of 1 μl of either tetrodotoxin (TTX) or saline. Saline infusions had no impact on serial-order behavior, whereas TTX infusions resulted in a significant decrease in performance. The serial-order impairments, however, were not the result of any specific error at any specific list item. With respect to the go/no-go discrimination task, saline infusions also had no impact on performance, whereas TTX infusions impaired pigeons’ discrimination abilities. Given the impairments on the go/no-go discrimination task, which does not require processing of serial-order information, we tentatively conclude that damage to the NCL does not impair serial-order behavior per se, but rather results in a more generalized impairment that may impact performance across a range of tasks.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY We examined the role of the nidopallium caudolaterale (NCL) in serial-order behavior by training pigeons on a 4-item serial-order task and selectively inhibiting the region with TTX. Although TTX infusions did impair serial-order behavior, the pattern of the deficit, plus the fact that TTX also impaired performance on a task without a serial-order component, indicates that inactivation of NCL causes impairments in reward processing or inhibition rather than serial-order behavior.
Predictive encoding of motor behavior in the supplementary motor area is disrupted in parkinsonism
Authors: Hendrix Claudia M. , Campbell Brett A. , Tittle Benjamin J. , Johnson Luke A. , Baker Kenneth B. , Johnson Matthew D. , Molnar Gregory F. , Vitek Jerrold L.
Published: June 2018

Many studies suggest that Parkinson’s disease (PD) is associated with changes in neuronal activity patterns throughout the basal ganglia-thalamocortical motor circuit. There are limited electrophysiological data, however, describing how parkinsonism impacts the presupplementary motor area (pre-SMA) and SMA proper (SMAp), cortical areas known to be involved in movement planning and motor control. In this study, local field potentials (LFPs) were recorded in the pre-SMA/SMAp of a nonhuman primate during a visually cued reaching task. Recordings were made in the same subject in both the naive and parkinsonian state using the 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine model of parkinsonism. We found that in the naive animal, well before a go-cue providing instruction of reach onset and direction was given, LFP activity was dynamically modulated in both high (20–30 Hz) and low beta (10–20 Hz) bands, and the magnitude of this modulation (e.g., decrease/increase in beta amplitude for each band, respectively) correlated linearly with reaction time (RT) on a trial-to-trial basis, suggesting it may predictively encode for RT. Consistent with this hypothesis, we observed that this activity was more prominent within the pre-SMA compared with SMAp. In the parkinsonian state, however, pre-SMA/SMAp beta band modulation was disrupted, particularly in the high beta band, such that the predictive encoding of RT was significantly diminished. In addition, the predictive encoding of RT preferentially within pre-SMA over SMAp was lost. These findings add to our understanding of the role of pre-SMA/SMAp in motor behavior and suggest a fundamental role of these cortical areas in early preparatory and premovement processes that are altered in parkinsonism.

NEW & NOTEWORTHY Goal-directed movements, such as reaching for an object, necessitate temporal preparation and organization of information processing within the basal ganglia-thalamocortical motor network. Impaired movement in parkinsonism is thought to be the result of pathophysiological activity disrupting information flow within this network. This work provides neurophysiological evidence linking altered motor preplanning processes encoded in pre-SMA/SMAp beta band modulation to the pathogenesis of motor disturbances in parkinsonism.