bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Brachial artery endothelial function is unchanged after acute sprint interval exercise in sedentary men and women
Authors: Shenouda Ninette , Skelly Lauren E. , Gibala Martin J. , MacDonald Maureen J.
Published: May 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the acute brachial artery endothelial function response to sprint interval exercise and are there sex‐based differences?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Brachial artery endothelial function did not change in either men or women following an acute session of SIT consisting of 3 × 20 s ‘all‐out’ cycling sprints. Our findings suggest this low‐volume protocol may not be sufficient to induce functional changes in the brachial artery of sedentary, but otherwise healthy adults.

Sprint interval training (SIT) is a potent metabolic stimulus, but studies examining its acute effects on brachial artery endothelial function are limited. The influence of oestradiol on the acute arterial response to this type of exercise is also unknown. We investigated the brachial artery endothelial function response to a single session of SIT in sedentary healthy men (n = 8; 22 ± 4 years) and premenopausal women tested in the mid‐follicular phase of the menstrual cycle (n = 8; 21 ± 3 years). Participants performed 3 × 20 s ‘all‐out’ cycling sprints interspersed with 2 min of active recovery. Brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) and haemodynamic parameters were measured before and 1 and 24 h post‐exercise. Despite attenuations in some haemodynamic parameters at 1 h post‐exercise, there were no changes in absolute (P = 0.23), relative (P = 0.23) or allometrically scaled FMD (P = 0.38) following a single session of SIT. Resting and peak dilatory diameters did not change in men or women (P > 0.05 for all) and there were no interactions between time and sex for any measure (P > 0.05). Oestradiol was not correlated with relative FMD at baseline (r = −0.22, P = 0.42) or with the change in relative FMD from baseline to 1 h post‐exercise (r = 0.24, P = 0.40). Overall, brachial artery FMD appears to be unchanged in men and women following an acute session of SIT, and the higher oestradiol concentrations in women do not augment the baseline or post‐exercise FMD response. The 3 × 20 s model of low‐volume sprint interval exercise may not be sufficient to alter brachial artery endothelial function in healthy men and women.
High‐precision voluntary movements are largely independent of preceding vertex potentials elicited by sudden sensory events
Authors: Kilintari M. , Bufacchi R. J. , Novembre G. , Guo Y. , Haggard P. , Iannetti G. D.
Published: May 2018

Key points

Salient and sudden sensory events generate a remarkably large response in the human brain, the vertex wave (VW).

The VW is coupled with a modulation of a voluntarily‐applied isometric force.

In the present study, we tested whether the VW is also related to executing high‐precision movements.

The execution of a voluntary high‐precision movement remains relatively independent of the brain activity reflected by the preceding VW.

The apparent relationship between the positive VW and movement onset time is explained by goal‐related but stimulus‐independent neural activities.

These results highlight the need to consider such goal‐related but stimulus‐independent neural activities when attempting to relate event‐related potential amplitude with perceptual and behavioural performance.

Salient and fast‐rising sensory events generate a large biphasic vertex wave (VW) in the human electroencephalogram (EEG). We recently reported that the VW is coupled with a modulation of concomitantly‐applied isometric force. In the present study, in five experiments, we tested whether the VW is also related to high‐precision visuomotor control. We obtained three results. First, the saliency‐induced increase in VW amplitude was paralleled by a modulation in two of the five extracted movement parameters: a reduction in the onset time of the voluntary movement (P < 0.005) and an increase in movement accuracy (P < 0.005). Second, spontaneous trial‐by‐trial variability in vertex wave amplitude, for a given level of stimulus saliency, was positively correlated with movement onset time (P < 0.001 in four out of five experiments). Third, this latter trial‐by‐trial correlation was explained by a widespread EEG negativity independent of the occurrence of the positive VW, although overlapping in time with it. These results indicate that (i) the execution of a voluntary high‐precision movement remains relatively independent of the neural processing reflected by the preceding VW, with (ii) the exception of movement onset time, for which saliency‐based contextual effects are dissociated from trial‐by‐trial effects. These results also indicate that (iii) attentional effects can produce spurious correlations between event‐related potentials (ERPs) and behavioural measures. Although sudden salient stimuli trigger characteristic EEG responses coupled with distinct reactive components within an ongoing isometric task, the results of the present study indicate that the execution of a subsequent voluntary movement appears largely protected from such saliency‐based modulation, with the exception of movement onset time.
Robust and accurate decoding of motoneuron behaviour and prediction of the resulting force output
Authors: Thompson Christopher K. , Negro Francesco , Johnson Michael D. , Holmes Matthew R. , McPherson Laura Miller , Powers Randall K. , Farina Dario , Heckman Charles J.
Published: May 2018

Key points

The spinal alpha motoneuron is the only cell in the human CNS whose discharge can be routinely recorded in humans.

We have reengineered motor unit collection and decomposition approaches, originally developed in humans, to measure the neural drive to muscle and estimate muscle force generation in the in vivo cat model.

Experimental, computational, and predictive approaches are used to demonstrate the validity of this approach across a wide range of modes to activate the motor pool.

The utility of this approach is shown through the ability to track individual motor units across trials, allowing for better predictions of muscle force than the electromyography signal, and providing insights in to the stereotypical discharge characteristics in response to synaptic activation of the motor pool.

This approach now allows for a direct link between the intracellular data of single motoneurons, the discharge properties of motoneuron populations, and muscle force generation in the same preparation.

The discharge of a spinal alpha motoneuron and the resulting contraction of its muscle fibres represents the functional quantum of the motor system. Recent advances in the recording and decomposition of the electromyographic signal allow for the identification of several tens of concurrently active motor units. These detailed population data provide the potential to achieve deep insights into the synaptic organization of motor commands. Yet most of our understanding of the synaptic input to motoneurons is derived from intracellular recordings in animal preparations. Thus, it is necessary to extend the new electrode and decomposition methods to recording of motor unit populations in these same preparations. To achieve this goal, we use high‐density electrode arrays and decomposition techniques, analogous to those developed for humans, to record and decompose the activity of tens of concurrently active motor units in a hindlimb muscle in the in vivo cat. Our results showed that the decomposition method in this animal preparation was highly accurate, with conventional two‐source validation providing rates of agreement equal to or superior to those found in humans. Multidimensional reconstruction of the motor unit action potential provides the ability to accurately track the same motor unit across multiple contractions. Additionally, correlational analyses demonstrate that the composite spike train provides better estimates of whole muscle force than conventional estimates obtained from the electromyographic signal. Lastly, stark differences are observed between the modes of activation, in particular tendon vibration produced quantal interspike intervals at integer multiples of the vibration period.
A question of time – or academic subjectivity?
Authors: Kallio Kirsi Pauliina , Hyvärinen Pieta
Published: May 2018

N/A
Modeling and experimental demonstration of high-throughput flow-through spatial atomic layer deposition of Al2O3 coatings on textiles at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Mousa Moataz Bellah M. , Ovental Jennifer S. , Brozena Alexandra H. , Oldham Christopher J. , Parsons Gregory N.
Published: May 2018

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) shows promise for forming thin films on temperature-sensitive materials, such as polymers, for applications in filtration, sensing, etc. However, traditional batch ALD generally proceeds slowly and requires controlled, low-pressure equipment. One approach to combat this limitation is spatial ALD, which uses moving substrates through zones of reactant exposure. To date, studies of spatial ALD have primarily explored growth on planar and nonporous substrates. Here, the authors demonstrate a proof-of-concept atmospheric pressure flow-through spatial ALD reactor specifically designed for through-porous substrates, such as fiber webs. This paper describes detailed gas flow modeling and experimental analysis of their prototype reactor. Model results identify precursor gas flow rates, channel spacing, and the distance between the substrate and reactor surfaces as key factors to achieve uniform deposition. Using a previously developed surface wetting protocol, the authors experimentally verify operating conditions for uniform ALD alumina on polypropylene as a model fiber substrate. Under good ALD conditions, the spatial ALD reactor can complete ∼60 cycles/min over a large substrate area, which is 60 times faster than batch ALD. The authors quantify growth saturation conditions and find that under reduced gas flow rates or slow fiber translation speeds, a transition from ALD to chemical vapor deposition-like growth can be induced. Additionally, the authors demonstrate that fiber mat properties such as mat density and air permeability play important roles in the penetration depth of the precursors and, therefore, the conditions needed to achieve ALD. Overall, this work demonstrates a proof-of-concept reactor for high throughput ALD on porous substrates, and identifies important design challenges and considerations for future high-throughput ALD.
Vapor-deposited octadecanethiol masking layer on copper to enable area selective Hf3N4 atomic layer deposition on dielectrics studied by in situ spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Lecordier Laurent , Herregods Sebastiaan , Armini Silvia
Published: May 2018

Area-selective atomic layer deposition (AS-ALD) has attracted a great deal of attention in recent years for self-aligned accurate pattern placement with subnanometer thickness control. The authors demonstrate a methodology to achieve AS-ALD by using undecanethiol and octadecanethiol masking layers deposited selectively in vapor phase on copper versus low-κ. Their approach has been demonstrated in combination with an in situ Hf3N4 ALD. In situ spectroscopic ellipsometer was performed to investigate the blocking ability of the thiols on the copper surface against ALD nucleation. A considerable growth inhibition up to 480 cycles for Hf3N4 deposited at 170 °C has been observed on the copper surface, while the same functionalization did not inhibit the nucleation on the dielectric surfaces.
Rayleigh wave harmonic generation in materials with depth-dependent non-linear properties
Authors: Mora Pierric , Spies Martin
Published: May 2018

Non-linear Rayleigh waves are investigated theoretically in materials having inhomogeneous third order and homogeneous second order elastic properties. Compared to the complete homogeneous case, the constants coupling the harmonics turn out to depend on frequency. The sensitivity and selectivity to the three Murnaghan's constants is discussed considering mono- and bi-chromatic inputs in the mark of the quasi-linear approximation. Numerical examples are given for depth profiles characteristic of dislocation densities in shot-peened metals. The predicted low-frequency scales are consistent with observation recently reported.
Ultrafast frequency-agile terahertz devices using methylammonium lead halide perovskites
Authors: Chanana Ashish , Liu Xiaojie , Zhang Chuang , Vardeny Zeev Valy , Nahata Ajay
Published: May 2018

We demonstrate new capabilities for frequency-agile terahertz devices using perovskites.
Natamycin and Azithromycin Are Synergistic
In Vitro
against Ocular Pathogenic Aspergillus flavus Species Complex and Fusarium solani Species Complex Isolates
Authors: Guo Haoyi , Zhou Lutan , He Yi , Gao Chuanwen , Han Lei , Xu Yan
Published: May 2018

The interaction of natamycin-azithromycin combination against 60 ocular fungal isolates was tested
in vitro
. The combination produced 100% synergistic interactions when natamycin was added to azithromycin 20, 40, and 50 μg/ml against
Aspergillus flavus
species complex (AFSC) isolates and to azithromycin 50 μg/ml against
Fusarium solani
species complex isolates. Addition of 50 μg/ml azithromycin enhanced natamycin's effect against AFSC isolates by reducing natamycin MIC
90
from 64 to 0.031 μg/ml. No antagonism was observed.
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation in Experimental Ulcerative Colitis Reveals Associated Gut Microbial and Host Metabolic Reprogramming
Authors: Yan Zhi-Xiang , Gao Xue-Jiao , Li Ting , Wei Bin , Wang Pan-Pan , Yang Ying , Yan Ru
Published: May 2018

Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is gaining attention for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). Data from individual case studies have suggested that FMT may be beneficial for UC, but the detailed microbial and molecular basis remains unknown. Here, we employ 16S rRNA gene sequencing and metabolomics to investigate the influence of FMT on gut microbial community composition and host metabolism in the dextran sulfate sodium-induced UC rat model. The findings from this pilot study suggest that FMT from normal donors to UC recipients could alleviate UC symptoms without close resemblance of donor's gut microbial and metabolic pattern. Meanwhile, FMT from UC donors to normal recipient rats triggered UC symptoms, UC-prone microbial shift, and host metabolic adaption. Gut microbiota under normal conditions could maintain stable species richness and diversity upon FMT intervention, but the disturbed gut microbiota under UC conditions could not maintain such homeostasis. Significant correlations between altered bacterial composition and host metabolism could be assigned to the pathological effects of UC (accounting for 8.0 to 16.2% of total variance) and/or the FMT intervention effects (3.9 to 7.0% of total variance). Overall, our study reveals diverse gut microbial shifts in UC related FMT and their association with host metabolic reprogramming.

IMPORTANCE
This study combined clinical symptoms measurement, 16S rRNA gene microbial profiling and metabolomics to comprehensively investigate the gut bacterial and host metabolic association and reprogramming in FMT-treated experimental UC. These data can advance our understanding of the effect of FMT on UC and the involvement of gut microbial dysbiosis in the development of UC.
Detrital zircon U–Pb dating of Late Triassic Wenbinshan Formation in southwestern Fujian, South China, and its geological significance
Authors: Xu Zhongjie , Lan Yizhi , Kong Jintao , Cheng Rihui , Wang Liaoliang
Published: May 2018

Based on research of the petrology, geochemistry, and zircon U–Pb dating of detrital rocks in the Late Triassic Wenbinshan Formation in southwestern Fujian, and comparing the detrital zircon ages of Wenbinshan Formation with those of Late Paleozoic – Early Mesozoic main basins in South China, the sedimentary provenance of the Late Triassic in southwestern Fujian and its implications for changes in basin properties are discussed. The research results demonstrate that there is a major age peak at 222 Ma, two subordinate age peaks at 275 Ma and 1851 Ma, and two minor age peaks at 413 Ma and 2447 Ma in the detrital zircon age spectra of the upper samples (YGP–6) of the Wenbinshan Formation, whereas there are two major age peaks at 229 Ma and 1817 Ma and other minor age peaks 265 Ma 309 Ma, 415 Ma, 1968 Ma, and 2435 Ma in the detrital zircon age spectra of the lower samples (YGP–26) of the Wenbinshan Formation. The upper samples contain fewer old detrital zircons than the lower samples, but the upper and lower samples of Wenbinshan Formation are similar in major age composition, which indicates the main provenances of the upper and lower sediments are very similar. The source rocks are mainly sedimentary rocks and their provenances are derived from a source area of recycled orogenic belt and volcanic arc orogenic belt (acidic island arc). The detrital zircon composition of the Wenbinshan Formation is mainly composed of Paleoproterozoic zircon and Late Paleozoic – Early Mesozoic zircon. In the Paleoproterozoic, sedimentary provenances were mainly derived from the Wuyi Massif and partly from northwestern Fujian-southwestern Zhejiang. As for the period of Late Paleozoic – Early Mesozoic, the provenances of the Wenbinshan Formation were derived from magmatic active belts of the Early Indosinian Epoch of northern South China, eastern South China, and the Indosinian Period of northern South China and coastal areas of eastern South China. The similarities and differences between detrital zircon age peaks of the Wenbinshan Formation in southwestern Fujian and that of the main basins in South China during the period of Late Paleozoic – Early Mesozoic indicate that from eastern coastal areas of South China to the north and interior of South China, the age composition of basin sediments has changed from simple to relatively complex, and from young sediments to older sediments. There are similarities and differences in the detrital zircon compositions of the different basins, which can indicate differences in the nature of the basins.
Cysteinyl leukotriene receptor antagonists induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation of human glioblastoma cells by downregulating B-cell lymphoma 2 and inducing cell cycle arrest
Authors: Piromkraipak Pannaree , Parakaw Tipparat , Phuagkhaopong Suttinee , Srihirun Sirada , Chongthammakun Sukumal , Chaithirayanon Kulathida , Vivithanaporn Pornpun
Published: May 2018

Glioblastoma is the most aggressive type of brain cancer with the highest proliferation, invasion, and migration. Montelukast and zafirlukast, 2 widely used leukotriene receptor antagonists (LTRAs) for asthma treatment, inhibited invasion and migration of glioblastoma cell lines. Montelukast induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation of various cancer cells. Herein, apoptotic and antiproliferative effects of montelukast and zafirlukast were investigated in 2 glioblastoma cell lines, A172 and U-87 MG. Both LTRAs induced apoptosis and inhibited cell proliferation of glioblastoma cells in a concentration-dependent manner. Montelukast was more cytotoxic and induced higher levels of apoptosis than zafirlukast in A172 cells, but not in U-87 MG cells. Both drugs decreased expression of B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) protein without affecting Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) levels. LTRAs also reduced the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2). In contrast, zafirlukast showed a greater antiproliferative effect than montelukast and induced G0/G1 cell cycle arrest by upregulating p53 and p21 expression. These results suggested the therapeutic potential of LTRAs in glioblastoma.
The Einstein–Hilbert gravitation with minimum length
Authors: Louzada H. L. C.
Published: May 2018

We study the Einstein–Hilbert gravitation with the deformed Heisenberg algebra leading to the minimum length, with the intention to find and estimate the corrections in this theory, clarifying whether or not it is possible to obtain, by means of the minimum length, a theory, in D[Formula: see text]=[Formula: see text]4, which is causal, unitary and provides a massive graviton. Therefore, we will calculate and analyze the dispersion relationships of the considered theory.
Design and operation of a bio-inspired micropump based on blood-sucking mechanism of mosquitoes
Authors: Leu Tzong-Shyng , Kao Ruei-Hung
Published: May 2018

The study is to develop a novel bionic micropump, mimicking blood-suck mechanism of mosquitos with a similar efficiency of 36%. The micropump is produced by using micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) technology, PDMS (polydimethylsiloxane) to fabricate the microchannel, and an actuator membrane made by Fe-PDMS. It employs an Nd-FeB permanent magnet and PZT to actuate the Fe-PDMS membrane for generating flow rate. A lumped model theory and the Taguchi method are used for numerical simulation of pulsating flow in the micropump. Also focused is to change the size of mosquito mouth for identifying the best waveform for the transient flow processes. Based on computational results of channel size and the Taguchi method, an optimization actuation waveform is identified. The maximum pumping flow rate is 23.5 [Formula: see text]L/min and the efficiency is 86%. The power density of micropump is about 8 times of that produced by mosquito’s suction. In addition to using theoretical design of the channel size, also combine with Taguchi method and asymmetric actuation to find the optimization actuation waveform, the experimental result shows the maximum pumping flowrate is 23.5 [Formula: see text]L/min and efficiency is 86%, moreover, the power density of micropump is 8 times higher than mosquito’s.
Extreme concentration fluctuations due to local reversibility of mixing in turbulent flows
Authors: Xia Hua , Francois Nicolas , Punzmann Horst , Szewc Kamil , Shats Michael
Published: May 2018

Mixing of a passive scalar in a fluid (e.g. a radioactive spill in the ocean) is the irreversible process towards homogeneous distribution of a substance. In a moving fluid, due to the chaotic advection [H. Aref, J. Fluid Mech. 143 (1984) 1; J. M. Ottino, The Kinematics of Mixing: Stretching,Chaos and Transport (Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, 1989)] mixing is much faster than if driven by molecular diffusion only. Turbulence is known as the most efficient mixing flow [B. I. Shraiman and E. D. Siggia, Nature 405 (2000) 639]. We show that in contrast to spatially periodic flows, two-dimensional turbulence exhibits local reversibility in mixing, which leads to the generation of unpredictable strong fluctuations in the scalar concentration. These fluctuations can also be detected from the analysis of the fluid particle trajectories of the underlying flow.
Stochastic Bifurcations in a Birhythmic Biological Model with Time-Delayed Feedbacks
Authors: Guo Qin , Sun Zhongkui , Xu Wei
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a study on stochastic bifurcations in a time-delayed birhythmic oscillator possessing a bistability mode with coexistence of two stable limit cycles in the deterministic case. Relying on the approximate methods, the stationary probability density function (PDF) of amplitude and joint PDF of displacement and velocity have been exhibited to characterize the qualitative properties of the system. The investigations indicate that the birhythmic region increases firstly and then decreases when time delay is monotonically varied. Further, system parameters and noise level can induce the appearance of stochastic P-bifurcation. Similar bifurcations can be induced by changing the strength of time delay and delayed feedbacks in displacement and velocity. Interestingly, joint PDF will reflect a more complex regime. And the role of the strength of the delayed velocity feedback on stochastic bifurcation is sensitive to the value of time delay. Numerical simulations are carried out for prototype models, which show basic agreement with our theoretical predictions.
Solitary Waves, Periodic Peakons and Pseudo-Peakons of the Nonlinear Acoustic Wave Model in Rotating Magnetized Plasma
Authors: Li Jibin
Published: May 2018

The dynamical model of the nonlinear acoustic wave in rotating magnetized plasma is governed by a partial differential equation system. Its traveling system is a singular traveling wave system of first class depending on two parameters. By using the bifurcation theory and method of dynamical systems and the theory of singular traveling wave systems, in this paper, we show that there exist parameter groups such that this singular system has pseudo-peakons, periodic peakons and compactons as well as different solitary wave solutions.
MAPPING BUSINESS MODEL RISK FACTORS
Authors: BRILLINGER ANNE-SOPHIE
Published: May 2018

Drivers like competitive pressure and technological change push organisations to innovate their business model (BM). However, this complex form of innovation not only offers many chances but also involves several risks. Value creation in complex and dynamic value networks with a multitude of different actors leads to a higher level of uncertainty and a larger number of risks. To build profitable and sustainable BMs, the relevant risk factors need to be identified, analysed, and managed. By applying and adapting the value network analysis (VNA), this work creates a methodology for identifying BM risk factors within the value network of a BM and unveils a set of general BM risk factors within the value network. Results are based on a detailed literature review and the use of the Action Design Research (ADR).
Ultra-high-precision reflectors - design concepts, structural optimization and zero-expansion composites
Authors: Wei Juanfang , Zhang Cheng , Qi Xueliang , Ma Xiaofei , Li Yanyong
Published: May 2018

The developing of satellite remote sensing technology demands high precision reflectors. This paper is devoted to the development of an ultra-high precision reflector, including the structural design and optimization, and even a kind of zero-expansion composite. A novel parabolic reflector without the traditional back surface is designed, simulated and analyzed. The relationships of some key parameters(surface error and weight) with other structural parameters are obtained. As the Kevlar fabric has negative CTE (Coefficient of Thermal Expansion) and CFRP has positive CTE, a Kevlar fabric-assisted carbon fiber composite is suggested. This composite exhibits the advantage of zero-expansion in 2D plane. Further, this zero-expansion laminate has been successfully manufactured. Finally, based on the design and analysis of the zero-expansion composite with CFRP and Kevlar fabric, an ultrahigh-precision reflector is successfully designed. The results of finite element method (FEM) show that the thermal distortion of the reflector meets the requirements of remote satellite, whose working radio frequency (RF) is 600[Formula: see text]GHz.
Convective Wave Equation and Time Reversal Process for Source Refocusing
Authors: Kahana Adar , Turkel Eli , Givoli Dan
Published: May 2018

The convective wave equation deals with wave propagation in a moving media. We focus on the underwater acoustic wave equation where the convective element is the flow of water inside a river, along its length. The main thrust of this paper is the ill-posed “refocusing” problem. The initial condition simulates an explosion in a small compact region and the response is recorded over time at several microphones. Having only partial and noisy information we expect that small perturbations will destroy the ability to recover the complete initial data. We use the time reversal (TR) technique to determine the location of the original explosion, given limited spatial observations. We test the effectiveness of this scheme under conditions including dissipation, dispersion, etc. We use finite differences and implement absorbing boundary conditions to simulate an unbounded region.
Stratigraphy, structure and petroleum exploration play types of the Rioni Basin, Georgia
Authors: Tari G. , Vakhania D. , Tatishvili G. , Mikeladze V. , Gogritchiani K. , Vacharadze S. , Mayer J. , Sheya C. , Siedl W. , Banon J. J. M. , Trigo Sanchez J. L.
Published: May 2018

The Rioni Basin is an underexplored petroliferous basin located at the Georgian margin of the Black Sea flanked by two folded belts (the Greater Caucasus and the Achara–Trialet Belt). Whereas the stratigraphy of the northern onshore Rioni Basin has elements which are common with that of the offshore Shatsky Ridge, the southern onshore Rioni Basin segment is both stratigraphically and structurally akin to the offshore Gurian folded belt in the eastern Black Sea. In the northern basin segment, the existing oil fields (East and West Chaladidi) and an undeveloped oil discovery (Okumi) are related to either post-salt or pre-salt antiformal traps in detachment folds or in poorly understood stratigraphic pinchouts beneath a regional Upper Jurassic evaporite sequence. In the southern Rioni Basin, the oil in existing fields has either anticlinal four-way closures (Supsa) or a subthrust trap (Shromisubani) related to the leading edge of the north-vergent Achara–Trialet folded belt. Despite the long history of petroleum exploration in the Rioni Basin, these proven plays are not fully understood and systematically explored using modern technology. The existence of an Upper Jurassic regional evaporite seal highlights the possibility of pre-salt plays in the northern part of the basin.
Measuring Global Value Chains
Authors: Johnson Robert C.
Published: May 2018

Recent decades have seen the emergence of global value chains (GVCs), in which production stages for individual goods are broken apart and scattered across countries. Stimulated by these developments, there has been rapid progress in data and methods for measuring GVC linkages. The macro approach to measuring GVCs connects national input–output tables across borders by using bilateral trade data to construct global input–output tables. These tables have been applied to measure trade in value added, the length of and location of producers in GVCs, and price linkages across countries. The micro approach uses firm-level data to document firms’ input sourcing decisions, how import and export participation are linked, and how multinational firms organize their production networks. In this review, I evaluate progress in these two approaches, highlighting points of contact between them and areas that demand further work. I argue that further convergence between these approaches can strengthen both, yielding a more complete empirical portrait of GVCs.
What Does (Formal) Health Insurance Do, and for Whom?
Authors: Finkelstein Amy , Mahoney Neale , Notowidigdo Matthew J.
Published: May 2018

Health insurance confers benefits to the previously uninsured, including improvements in health, reductions in out-of-pocket spending, and reduced medical debt. However, because the nominally uninsured pay only a small share of their medical expenses, health insurance also provides substantial transfers to nonrecipient parties who would otherwise bear the costs of providing uncompensated care to the uninsured. The prevalence of uncompensated care helps explain the limited take-up of heavily subsidized public health insurance and the evidence that many recipients value formal health insurance at substantially less than the cost to insurers of providing that coverage. The distributional implications of public subsidies for health insurance depend critically on the ultimate economic incidence of the transfers that they deliver to providers of uncompensated care.
Single-Cell (Multi)omics Technologies
Authors: Chappell Lia , Russell Andrew J.C. , Voet Thierry
Published: May 2018

Single-cell multiomics technologies typically measure multiple types of molecule from the same individual cell, enabling more profound biological insight than can be inferred by analyzing each molecular layer from separate cells. These single-cell multiomics technologies can reveal cellular heterogeneity at multiple molecular layers within a population of cells and reveal how this variation is coupled or uncoupled between the captured omic layers. The data sets generated by these techniques have the potential to enable a deeper understanding of the key biological processes and mechanisms driving cellular heterogeneity and how they are linked with normal development and aging as well as disease etiology. This review details both established and novel single-cell mono- and multiomics technologies and considers their limitations, applications, and likely future developments.
The Obesity Paradox in Cancer: How Important Is Muscle?
Authors: Cespedes Feliciano Elizabeth M. , Kroenke Candyce H. , Caan Bette J.
Published: May 2018

Although higher body mass index (BMI) increases the incidence of many cancers, BMI can also exhibit a null or U-shaped relationship with survival among patients with existing disease; this association of higher BMI with improved survival is termed the obesity paradox. This review discusses possible explanations for the obesity paradox, the prevalence and consequences of low muscle mass in cancer patients, and future research directions. It is unlikely that methodological biases, such as reverse causality or confounding, fully explain the obesity paradox. Rather, up to a point, higher BMI may truly be associated with longer survival in cancer patients. This is due, in part, to the limitations of BMI, which scales weight to height without delineating adipose tissue distribution or distinguishing between adipose and muscle tissue. Thus, cancer patients with higher BMIs often have higher levels of protective muscle. We assert that more precise measures of body composition are required to clarify the relationship of body size to cancer outcomes, inform clinical decision-making, and help tailor lifestyle interventions.
Determination of single embryo sex in Macaca mulatta and Mus musculus RNA-Seq transcriptome profiles
Authors: Midic Uros , VandeVoort Catherine A. , Latham Keith E.
Published: May 2018

To account for sex as a biological variable, it is sometimes necessary to identify the sex of an embryo or embryonic cell that was used to generate libraries for RNA sequencing, without the sex being known a priori. The preferred approach for this would take advantage of the mRNA data, rather than relying on other methods that require separation and analysis of genomic DNA or diversion of limiting RNA for other assays. We describe here a method that has been optimized for this purpose in samples of rhesus monkey and mouse embryos. This method is broadly applicable to any species for which a sufficiently well characterized genome and knowledge of polymorphisms are available, and for embryos that are transcriptionally active and expressing their genome.
Safety and Efficacy of a Progressively Prolonged Maintenance Interval of Venom Immunotherapy
Authors: Kontou-Fili Kalliopi , Pitsios Constantinos , Kompoti Evangelia , Giannakopoulos Dionysios , Kouridakis Spyros
Published: May 2018

Background: The long-term protection provided by venom immunotherapy (VIT) is related to the dose administered and to its long duration; the latter, however, becomes inconvenient for patients in countries like Greece, with many islanders or inhabitants of distant mountainous areas. Maintenance interval prolongation reduces the number of office visits – saving time and money – and as a consequence contributes to the patients’ compliance. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VIT on a progressively prolonged maintenance interval (PPMI). Method: 450 venom-allergic patients were reviewed for participation in our study; all of them were initially treated with a modified rush or an ultrarush protocol using freshly reconstituted, pure venoms. Upon reaching the maintenance dose, the VIT interval was scheduled to be gradually prolonged – by 1 week each time – aiming at a maximal interval of 26 weeks. Results: 267/450 patients consented to participate in our VIT PPMI protocol: 98 were treated with vespid(s) venom, 142 with honeybee venom, and 27 with both. The mean duration of patient follow-up was 9.1 ± 4.2 years. The majority of systemic reactions due to VIT injections occurred up to the 8-weeks PPMI; few additional reactions were documented in a small fraction (2.9%) of our patient population beyond 9 weeks and up to 16 weeks; all were caused by honeybee VIT. No reactions were observed during VIT administration at the 26-week interval. Ninety-six patients reported 204 field sting occurrences by the culprit insect. Ten systemic reactions (8 mild and 2 moderate in severity) were registered between the 9- and 18-week PPMI; the honeybee was the culprit insect in all cases. 108 field stings by the offending insect were sustained beyond the 20- and up to the 26-week PPMI; there were no reactions at all. Conclusions: Progressively prolonging the VIT maintenance interval up to 26 weeks appears to be safe and efficacious.
Anomalous Self-Experiences: Markers of Schizophrenia Vulnerability or Symptoms of Depersonalization Disorder? A Phenomenological Investigation of Two Cases
Authors: Værnes Tor Gunnar , Røssberg Jan Ivar , Møller Paul
Published: May 2018

Background: Basic self-disturbance (BSD) is proposed to constitute the clinical core of schizophrenia spectrum disorders, including prodromal states and schizotypy. Anomalous self-experiences (ASEs) are suggested as phenotypic variants of BSD, representing markers of schizophrenia vulnerability. However, ASEs are not restricted to the schizophrenia spectrum, but may also occur in non-psychotic states like depersonalization disorder (DPD). It is unclear to what extent the prevalence and nature of ASEs are differing between the two conditions. The main aim of this paper is to assess and compare ASEs in both conditions, based on literature and two illustrating cases. This might expand the understanding of these phenomena, and strengthen the basis for clinical differentiation. Methods: One patient with schizotypal personality disorder (SPD) and one with DPD were selected from an ongoing clinical high-risk (CHR) for psychosis study. ASEs were assessed with the Examination of Anomalous Self-Experience (EASE) and analyzed according to the two central dimensions of BSD: diminished self-affection and hyperreflexivity, as well as according to prototypical aspects of depersonalization. The cases were also analyzed and compared with respect to chronology, other symptomatology, and psychopathological pathways. Results: Both cases revealed ASEs reflecting the central dimensions of BSD as well as prototypical aspects of depersonalization. Only the SPD case however, linked ASEs to psychotic-like ideas of external influence and control. The symptoms had an insidious early childhood onset with no obvious triggers in the SPD case, and an abrupt adolescence onset triggered by second-time cannabis use and panic anxiety in the DPD case. Conclusions: The similarities and differences in ASEs, symptomatology and developmental pathways of the two cases might be accounted for by an updated model of self-disorders. The model proposes that schizophrenia manifests as a result of a combination of early “primary”-onset ASEs, reflecting dis­turbances in early neurodevelopment, and later occurring, “secondary” ASEs of a more defensive-protective character. In line with this, the DPD case may be characterized only by secondary ASEs and thus better protected against psychotic decompensation than the SPD case, tentatively affected by a combination of primary and secondary ASEs.
Tumor Suppressive Role of ARHGAP17 in Colon Cancer Through Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling
Authors: Pan Shengli , Deng Yingying , Fu Jun , Zhang Yuhao , Zhang Zhijin , Ru Xiaokun , Qin Xianju
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: A few Rho GTPase activating proteins (RhoGAPs) have been identified as tumor suppressors in a variety of human cancers. ARHGAP17, a member of RhoGAPs, has been reported to be involved in the maintenance of tight junction and epithelial barrier. The present study aimed to explore its expression in colon cancer and the possible function in colonic carcinogenesis. Methods: The mRNA and protein expression was assessed by realtime PCR and immunoblotting, respectively. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and Transwell assays were performed to evaluate cell proliferation and invasion, respectively. Results: We found that ARHGAP17 expression was obviously lower in colon cancer specimens than in normal colonic mucosa. ARHGAP17 expression was associated with tumor stage, size and differentiation. In vitro analysis demonstrated that ARHGAP17 overexpression inhibited cell growth and invasion of HCT-8 and HCT-116 cells. In addition, an in vivo experimental metastasis model showed that ARHGAP17 overexpression restricted cancer metastasis to the lung. Mechanically, we found that Wnt signaling contributed to the functions of ARHGAP17 in colon cancer cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) in The Cancer Genome Atlas dataset showed that the Wnt signaling pathway was negatively associated with ARHGAP17 expression. The mRNA expression of β-catenin (an important signaling transducer of canonical Wnt signaling) gene (CTNNB1) was negatively correlated with ARHGAP17 expression. Immunoblot analysis of downstream effectors of β-catenin (c-Myc/p27 and MMP7) in ARHGAP17 overexpressing colon cancer cells and metastatic tumors within the lung also validated the GSEA result. ARHGAP17 overexpression increased the phosphorylation of glycogen synthetase kinase 3β, and decreased β-catenin nuclear localization and transcriptional activity. Furthermore, inhibition of Wnt signaling by Wnt Inhibitor Factor-1 (WIF-1) in HIEC cells with ARHGAP17 knockdown significantly attenuated the promotion effects of ARHGAP17 knockdown on cell proliferation, invasion and the activation of β-catenin. Conclusion: these results suggest that ARHGAP17 might serve as a tumor suppressor in colon cancer progression and metastasis through Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
MiR-433-3p Inhibits Proliferation and Invasion of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma by Targeting GRB2
Authors: Shi Qizhong , Wang Yongling , Mu Yonghui , Wang Xin , Fan Qingxia
Published: May 2018

Background/Aims: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are non-coding single stranded RNAs of 17-25 nucleotides in size, and their altered expression has been observed in various cancers. Previous studies have confirmed that miR-433-3p has effects on cancer cell proliferation, invasion, and migration, and its expression also correlates with sensitivity to chemotherapy. However, to date, there have been no studies on the biological functions of miR-433-3p in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Methods: The Cell Counting Kit-8, transwell, and matrigel assays were used to test the effects of miR-433-3p and its predicted target, growth factor receptor-bound protein 2 (GRB2), on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of Eca109 and KYSE30 cells, two types of esophageal cancer cell lines. The miR-433-3p binding site in the 3′ untranslated region (UTR) region of GRB2 was predicted and verified using miRNA target site prediction software and structuring correct mutant examination. Western blotting and fluorescent quantitative PCR (FQ-PCR) techniques were employed to evaluate GRB2 expression. The inhibitory effects of miR-433-3p on tumor growth were investigated using a tumor xenograft model. Results: The binding site of miR-433-3p was identified in the 3′UTR region of GRB2. Western blotting and FQ-PCR showed that miR-433-3p inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of GRB2. Overexpression of GRB2 inhibited tumorigenesis in nude mice. MiR-433-3p overexpression inhibited the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells by suppressing GRB2 gene expression. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that targeting miR-433-3p may have therapeutic benefits in ESCC.
O conceito de hegemonia no percurso dos meios às mediações
Authors: Moraes Gláucia Da Silva Mendes
Published: May 2018

The theoretical-methodological shift from the media to mediations, proposed by Jesús Martín-Barbero, implies the adoption of a perspective in which communication is associated with political-cultural processes. In this approach, the concept of hegemony occupies a central position. This article aims to show how this theoretical contribution helped to develop an original approach to mass communication in Latin America. In order to do so, it begins with an explanation about the origin of the term and its appropriation by communication and culture studies. Next, it locates historically Martín-Barbero’s researches that introduced the concept in the continent, allowing the understanding of its singularities in the book From the media to mediations.
Sobre como ver com os outros em uma era globalizada e intercultural
Authors: Pereira Tissiana
Published: May 2018

This text is a critical review of the recent book published by Jesús Martín-Barbero and Sarah Corona Berkin Ver con los otros: comunicación intercultural which the authors discuss how the knowledge is constructed dialectically between theory and practice, paying attention to the dialogue between a researcher and their informant (the other) who end up asking each other to draw this path together. Martín-Barbero and Berkin are interested in the socio-cultural thickness of the visuals and the ways of seeing the other in the current context in which we live globalization.
Mutações bastardas da comunicação
Authors: Rincón Omar
Published: May 2018

The discourses and agendas of the twentieth century are no longer useful in explaining the changes of our time. It is difficult to explain this zombie society – of living dead people in consumption, far from politics and humanism; with media disconnected from the people and converted into political actors; a capitalism that rewards social injustice and cynicism; a system of justice that is increasingly right-wing and follows the god of capital. For this new world, we need to raise different discourses and concepts. This is what the article is about: finding ways from which communication has been thought in Latin America, looking again at Martín-Barbero’s nighttime maps, developing ideas about the mutation of communication.
Estudos culturais latino-americanos e Jesús Martín-Barbero: mais afinidades do que disputas
Authors: Escosteguy Ana Carolina Damboriarena
Published: May 2018

Although Martín-Barbero claims that “we had done cultural studies long before this label appeared”, this article sustains that, without De los medios a las mediaciones (From the Media to Mediations), Latin American cultural studies would not have developed, especially those linked to communication studies. The argument highlights the kinship between cultural studies, especially in the version associated with the Birmingham School, and the premises of the research program proposed by the Spanish-Colombian author. To trace these affinities, the combination of methodological programmatic and ethnographic approaches was adopted.