bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Acute effects of meditation training on the waking and sleeping brain: Is it all about homeostasis?
Authors: Dentico Daniela , Bachhuber David , Riedner Brady A. , Ferrarelli Fabio , Tononi Giulio , Davidson Richard J. , Lutz Antoine 
Published: August 2018

AbstractOur recent finding of a meditation‐related increase in low‐frequency NREM sleep EEG oscillatory activities peaking in the theta‐alpha range (4–12 Hz) was not predicted. From a consolidated body of research on sleep homeostasis, we would expect a change peaking in slow wave activity (1–4 Hz) following an intense meditation session. Here we compared these changes in sleep with the post‐meditation changes in waking rest scalp power to further characterize their functional significance. High‐density EEG recordings were acquired from 27 long‐term meditators (LTM) on three separate days at baseline and following two 8‐hr sessions of either mindfulness or compassion‐and‐loving‐kindness meditation. Thirty‐one meditation‐naïve participants (MNP) were recorded at the same time points. As a common effect of meditation practice, we found increases in low and fast waking EEG oscillations for LTM only, peaking at eight and 15 Hz respectively, over prefrontal, and left centro‐parietal electrodes. Paralleling our previous findings in sleep, there was no significant difference between meditation styles in LTM as well as no difference between matched sessions in MNP. Meditation‐related changes in wakefulness and NREM sleep were correlated across space and frequency. A significant correlation was found in the EEG low frequencies (<12 Hz). Since the peak of coupling was observed in the theta‐alpha oscillatory range, sleep homeostatic response to meditation practice is not sufficient to explain our findings. Another likely phenomenon into play is a reverberation of meditation‐related processes during subsequent sleep. Future studies should ascertain the interplay between these processes in promoting the beneficial effects of meditation practice.
Techniques for placement of stereotactic electroencephalographic depth electrodes: Comparison of implantation and tracking accuracies in a cadaveric human study
Authors: Jones Jaes C. , Alomar Soha , McGovern Robert A. , Firl Daniel , Fitzgerald Zachary , Gale John , Gonzalez‐Martinez Jorge A. 
Published: August 2018

SummaryObjectiveStereotactic electroencephalography (SEEG) is used for the evaluation and identification of the epileptogenic zone (EZ) in patients suffering from medically refractory seizures and relies upon the accurate implantation of depth electrodes. Accurate implantation is critical for identification of the EZ. Multiple electrodes and implantation systems exist, but these have not previously been systematically evaluated for implantation accuracy. This study compares the accuracy of two SEEG electrode implantation methods.MethodsThirteen “technique 1” electrodes (applying guiding bolts and external stylets) and 13 “technique 2” electrodes (without guiding bolts and external stylets) were implanted into four cadaver heads (52 total of each) according to each product's instructions for use using a stereotactic robot. Postimplantation computed tomography scans were compared to preimplantation computed tomography scans and to the previously defined targets. Electrode entry and final depth location were measured by Euclidean coordinates. The mean errors of each technique were compared using linear mixed effects models.ResultsPrimary analysis revealed that the mean error difference of the technique 1 and 2 electrodes at entry and target favored the technique 1 electrode implantation accuracy (P < 0.001). Secondary analysis demonstrated that orthogonal implantation trajectories were more accurate than oblique trajectories at entry for technique 1 electrodes (P = 0.002). Furthermore, deep implantations were significantly less accurate than shallow implantations for technique 2 electrodes (P = 0.005), but not for technique 1 electrodes (P = 0.50).SignificanceTechnique 1 displays greater accuracy following SEEG electrode implantation into human cadaver heads. Increased implantation accuracy may lead to increased success in identifying the EZ and increased seizure freedom rates following surgery.
A validity argument to support the ACTFL Assessment of Performance Toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL)
Authors: Cox Troy L. , Malone Margaret E. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThis article presents evidence for a validity argument on the ACTFL Assessment of Performance Toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL) tests (Interpersonal Listening/Speaking, Presentational Writing, Interpretive Listening, and Interpretive Reading) by summarizing an analysis of the 2014 test data from examinations administered in three languages (Chinese, French, and Spanish) to more than 10,000 students in grades 5 to 12. The specific stages the authors evaluated included the following: (1) the design of the instrument, (2) the effectiveness of the rating scale, (3) the reliability of the instrument, and (4) the extent to which ACTFL proficiency levels were generalizable across languages. As a complete test battery, there is validity evidence that the Assessment of Performance Toward Proficiency can be used to measure the performance of upper elementary, middle, and high school students as they develop increasingly sophisticated language proficiency. The strengths of the examinations are the productive skill areas, whereas the receptive skill areas have been targeted for continuing development.
Characterization of phenology, physiology, morphology and biomass traits across a broad Euro‐Mediterranean ecotypic panel of the lignocellulosic feedstock Arundo donax
Authors: Fabbrini Francesco , Ludovisi Riccardo , Alasia Omar , Flexas Jaume , Douthe Cyril , Ribas Carbó Miquel , Robson Paul , Taylor Gail , Scarascia‐Mugnozza Giuseppe , Keurentjes Joost J. B. , Harfouche Antoine 
Published: August 2018

AbstractGiant reed (Arundo donax L.) is a perennial rhizomatous grass, which has attracted great attention as a potential lignocellulosic feedstock for bioethanol production due to high biomass yield in marginal land areas, high polysaccharide content and low inhibitor levels in microbial fermentations. However, little is known about the trait variation that is available across a broad ecotypic panel of A. donax nor the traits that contribute most significantly to yield and growth in drought prone environments. A collection of 82 ecotypes of A. donax sampled across the Mediterranean basin was planted in a common garden experimental field in Savigliano, Italy. We analysed the collection using 367 clumps representing replicate plantings of 82 ecotypes for variation in 21 traits important for biomass accumulation and to identify the particular set of ecotypes with the most promising potential for biomass production. We measured morpho‐physiological, phenological and biomass traits and analysed causal relationships between traits and productivity characteristics assessed at leaf and canopy levels. The results identified differences among the 82 ecotypes for all studied traits: those showing the highest level of variability included stomatal resistance, stem density (StN), stem dry mass (StDM) and total biomass production (TotDM). Multiple regression analysis revealed that leaf area index, StDM, StN, number of nodes per stem, stem height and diameter were the most significant predictors of TotDM and the most important early selection criteria for bioenergy production from A. donax. These traits were used in a hierarchical cluster analysis to identify groups of similar ecotypes, and a selection was made of promising ecotypes for multiyear and multisite testing for biomass production. Heritability estimates were significant for all traits. The potential of this ecotype collection as a resource for studies of germplasm diversity and for the analysis of traits underpinning high productivity of A. donax is highlighted.
Body size shifts influence effects of increasing temperatures on ectotherm metabolism
Authors: Riemer Kristina , Anderson‐Teixeira Kristina J. , Smith Felisa A. , Harris David J. , Ernest S. K. Morgan 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimWarmer temperatures directly increase metabolic rates of ectotherms, but temperature also indirectly affects metabolic rates. Higher temperatures result in smaller body sizes and associated decreases in metabolic rates, and it remains unknown whether this indirect effect of temperature increase could mitigate the direct positive effect of temperature on metabolic rate. Here, we assess whether temperature‐induced shifts in body size are likely to offset the direct influence of temperature on metabolic rate.LocationGlobal.Time period1940–2011.Major taxa studiedEctotherms.MethodsWe compiled literature‐derived data on mass and temperature for 109 ectotherm species raised at various constant temperatures. Using an allometric equation to estimate metabolic rate from size and temperature, we determined the body masses necessary for species to maintain constant metabolic rates under increased temperatures. We also calculated and compared (a) change in metabolic rate attributable to increased temperature where body size does not change with (b) change in metabolic rate including empirical size change.ResultsWarmer temperatures resulted in increased metabolic rate estimates, but this was partly offset by decreased body sizes for the majority of species. For most species, observed decreases in body size at higher temperatures were insufficient to avoid metabolic rate increases.Main conclusionsAlthough the indirect effect of temperature on metabolic rate via body size is not sufficient to counterbalance the direct effect, it limits the magnitude of the increase in metabolic rate. Thus, in a warming climate, ectotherms are likely to experience increases in energy use that are smaller than anticipated. Given that metabolic rates have substantial, diverse impacts on individuals, populations, and ecosystems, these indirect effects of temperature change will have complex cascading effects on ecological communities, but the impacts of increases in metabolic rate of these varying magnitudes are unknown.
Global drivers of population density in terrestrial vertebrates
Authors: Santini Luca , Isaac Nick J. B. , Maiorano Luigi , Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Huijbregts Mark A. J. , Carbone Chris , Thuiller Wilfried 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimAlthough the effects of life history traits on population density have been investigated widely, how spatial environmental variation influences population density for a large range of organisms and at a broad spatial scale is poorly known. Filling this knowledge gap is crucial for global species management and conservation planning and to understand the potential impact of environmental changes on multiple species.LocationGlobal.Time periodPresent.Major taxa studiedTerrestrial amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals.MethodsWe collected population density estimates for a range of terrestrial vertebrates, including 364 estimates for amphibians, 850 for reptiles, 5,667 for birds and 7,651 for mammals. We contrasted the importance of life history traits and environmental predictors using mixed models and tested different hypotheses to explain the variation in population density for the four groups. We assessed the predictive accuracy of models through cross‐validation and mapped the partial response of vertebrate population density to environmental variables globally.ResultsAmphibians were more abundant in wet areas with high productivity levels, whereas reptiles showed relatively higher densities in arid areas with low productivity and stable temperatures. The density of birds and mammals was typically high in temperate wet areas with intermediate levels of productivity. The models showed good predictive abilities, with pseudo‐R2ranging between 0.68 (birds) and 0.83 (reptiles).Main conclusionsTraits determine most of the variation in population density across species, whereas environmental conditions explain the intraspecific variation across populations. Species traits, resource availability and climatic stability have a different influence on the population density of the four groups. These models can be used to predict the average species population density over large areas and be used to explore macroecological patterns and inform conservation analyses.
Congruence across taxa and spatial scales: Are we asking too much of species data?
Authors: Burrascano S. , de Andrade R. B. , Paillet Y. , Ódor P. , Antonini G. , Bouget C. , Campagnaro T. , Gosselin F. , Janssen P. , Persiani A. M. , Nascimbene J. , Sabatini F. M. , Sitzia T. , Blasi C. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractAimBiodiversity monitoring and conservation are extremely complex, and surrogate taxa may represent proxies to test methods and solutions. However, cross‐taxon correlations in species diversity (i.e., cross‐taxon congruence) may vary widely with spatial scale. Our goal is to assess how cross‐taxon congruence varies with spatial scale in European temperate forests. We expect that congruence in species diversity increases when shifting from fine to coarse spatial scales, with differences between species richness and composition, and across pairs of taxonomic groups.LocationEuropean temperate forests.Time periodPresent.Major taxa studiedVascular plants, bryophytes, birds, epiphytic lichens, saproxylic beetles and wood‐inhabiting fungi.MethodsWe used field data (354 plots across 23 sites) encompassing Italy, France and Hungary, with species information for six taxonomic groups. We accounted separately for spatial grain (the size of elementary sampling unit) and extent (the geographical area included in the survey) and evaluated the relationships within all the possible pairs of taxa.ResultsAlthough no pair of taxa had its species richness consistently correlated across scales, we found no changes in the direction of correlations when analysing species composition. However, when increasing grain and extent, we did find a general increase in the magnitude of correlations in species composition and partial changes in significance, with plants having the highest number of significant correlations.Main conclusionsSpecies richness congruence among taxa is strongly scale dependent owing to differences in the relative contribution of large‐ and small‐scale processes across taxa. Cross‐taxon congruence in species composition is scale dependent only for its magnitude, because life‐history traits of individual species make responses to environmental factors similar across scales. Forest monitoring should consider multi‐taxon sampling and limit the use of surrogates at specific spatial scales, especially for species richness. Sampling plant species composition in scattered plots across different sites may effectively summarize the whole community composition.
Response of guinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus) genotypes to intercropping with forage legumes under varying nitrogen management options
Authors: Choudhary Mukesh , Prabhu Govindasamy , Palsaniya Dana Ram 
Published: August 2018

AbstractGuinea grass (Megathyrsus maximus) is an important source of forage in India but it remains dormant during the winter season. The space between rows of grass can be utilized by incorporating forage legumes. This 3‐year study evaluated two genotypes of guinea grass in monocropping and intercropping with cowpea and Egyptian clover under different N management options. Guinea grass genotype BG‐2 produced higher dry‐matter yields than BG‐1, both in monocropping and in intercropping. However, dry‐matter yield of forage legumes was higher under BG‐1. The yield advantage in terms of land equivalent ratio was higher in BG‐1 (1.69) than BG‐2 (1.60). BG‐1 was more dominant than BG‐2 in intercropping. Soil properties such as dehydrogenase activity, microbial biomass carbon and available N were improved under grass–legume intercropping compared with grass alone. Higher crude protein and N uptake were also observed in BG‐2. Net returns of grass–legumes intercropping were 30%–40% higher compared with monocropping of guinea grass. Among N management options, higher growth, crude protein content and forage yield were achieved with application of 40 kg N/ha after each cut of guinea grass in double split. Therefore, guinea grass + cowpea–Egyptian clover intercropping with 40 kg N/ha after each grass cut in double split can be suggested for higher forage productivity, profitability and soil properties.
Immune signalling by supramolecular assemblies
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Jain Shweta 
Published: August 2018

SummaryFormation of supramolecular assemblies appears to be a general mechanism in immune signalling pathways. These supramolecular assemblies appear to form through a nucleated polymerization mechanism. This review examines selected immune signalling pathways that involve supramolecular assemblies, describes the concepts of protein polymerization, and discusses how those concepts of protein polymerization implicate new elegant ways for signal amplification, setting threshold and noise reduction in these pathways.
γδ T cells modulate humoral immunity against Plasmodium berghei infection
Authors: Inoue Shin‐Ichi , Niikura Mamoru , Asahi Hiroko , Kawakami Yasushi , Kobayashi Fumie 
Published: August 2018

SummaryIt is unclear whether γδ T cells are involved in humoral immunity against Plasmodium infection. Here, we show that B‐cell‐immunodeficient mice and γδ T‐cell‐deficient mice were incapable of protecting against Plasmodium berghei XAT parasites. γδ T‐cell‐deficient mice developed reduced levels of antigen‐specific antibodies during the late phase of infection. The numbers of follicular helper T cells and germinal centre B cells in γδ T‐cell‐deficient mice were lower than in wild‐type mice during the late phase of infection. Expression profiling of humoral immunity‐related cytokines in γδ T cells showed that interleukin‐21 (IL‐21) and interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) are increased during the early stage of infection. Furthermore, blockade of IL‐21 and IFN‐γ signalling during the early stage of infection led to reduction in follicular helper T cells and germinal centre B cells. γδ T‐cell production of IL‐21 and IFN‐γ is crucial for the development and maintenance of follicular helper T cells and germinal centre B cells during the late phase of infection. Our data suggest that γδ T cells modulate humoral immunity against Plasmodium infection.
Financial Statement Comparability and Idiosyncratic Return Volatility
Authors: Habib Ahsan , Hasan Mostafa Monzur , Al‐Hadi Ahmed 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThis study examines the association between financial statement comparability and idiosyncratic return volatility (IRV). A greater degree of comparability lowers information acquisition costs, reduces the uncertainties associated with performance evaluation, and increases the overall quantity and quality of information available to corporate outsiders, which, in turn, helps investors to understand and evaluate the cash flow and performance of firms more accurately. Therefore, we hypothesize a negative association between financial statement comparability and IRV. Using a large US sample from 1981 to 2013, we show that financial statement comparability is associated with lower level of IRV significantly. We also find this association to be more pronounced in a poor information environment. This study contributes to the emerging research that stresses the benefits of financial statement comparability.
Differences in surface failure modes of soda lime silica glass under normal indentation versus tangential shear: A comparative study on Na+/K+‐ion exchange effects
Authors: Luo Jiawei , Grisales William , Rabii Matthew , Pantano Carlo G. , Kim Seong H. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThe effects of exchanging Na+with K+on the mechanical and mechanochemical properties of a soda lime silica (SLS) glass were investigated. It is known that replacing smaller modifier ions with bigger ions in the silicate glass network, at temperatures below the glass transition (Tg), produces a compressive stress in the subsurface region that enhances resistance to mechanical damages. This study found that when Na+ions inSLSare exchanged with K+ions at 400°C, the hardness, indentation fracture toughness, and crack initiation load of the surface are increased, which is consistent with the chemical strengthening effect. However, the resistance to mechanochemical wear in a near‐saturation humidity condition (relative humidityRH = 90%) is deteriorated. When K+ions are exchanged back with Na+ions at 350°C, the wear resistance in high humidity conditions is recovered. These results indicate that the improvement of mechanical properties under indentation normal to the surface is irrelevant with the resistance to mechanochemical wear under tangential shear at the surface. Based on the analysis of the surface chemical composition, silicate network structure, and hydrogen‐bonding interactions of hydrous species in the subsurface region, it is proposed that the leachable Na+associated with non‐bridging oxygen and subsurface hydrous species in the silicate network play more important roles in the mechanochemical wear ofSLSat highRH.
Facebook as a learning environment for language teaching and learning: A critical analysis of the literature from 2010 to 2017
Authors: Barrot Jessie S. 
Published: August 2018

AbstractThe increasing popularity of Facebook has prompted scholars and educators to explore its potentials as a learning environment for various fields of education. Along this line, several reviews of literature have been written about the educational use of Facebook; however, none of them have focused on a specific field of interest such as language pedagogy. Thus, this paper defines the contour of scholarly literature on Facebook as a technology‐enhanced learning environment in language teaching and learning. Using Scopus database as a source, 41 scholarly documents were retrieved and analysed. The demographics of the selected studies show that most of the published research came from Asia and were conducted in the higher education context. In terms of foci of interest, most of the studies focused on developing students' general language proficiency and productive skills. Although a great majority of the studies relied on self‐report data and preexperimental research, the current literature suggests the viability of integrating Facebook into language pedagogy. Suggestions for future studies are discussed.