bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alterations in macrophage polarization in injured murine vocal folds
Authors: Kaba Shinji , Nakamura Ryosuke , Yamashita Masaru , Katsuno Tatsuya , Suzuki Ryo , Tateya Ichiro , Kishimoto Yo , Omori Koichi
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Macrophages are prominent inflammatory cells in wounds, and their phenotypes are altered during wound healing. They are reported to contribute to not only inflammatory responses but also tissue remodeling. However, few studies in vocal fold biology have focused on the function of macrophages. The purpose of this study was to investigate macrophage polarization and distribution in injured murine vocal folds.

Study Design

Animal experiments with controls.

Method

Unilateral vocal fold stripping was performed on C57BL/6 mice, and larynges were harvested 1, 3, 5, 7, and 14 days postinjury. Immunohistochemical analysis of the vocal fold lamina propria was performed to detect the expression of classically activated (M1) and alternatively activated (M2) macrophage markers (inducible nitric oxide synthase [iNOS] and CD206, respectively) in F4/80+ macrophages.

Results

The proportion of F4/80+iNOS+ cells out of all F4/80+ cells tended to increase from day 1. F4/80+iNOS+ cell percentage tended to be high at days 1 through 7 and declined to close to a normal level by day 14. F4/80+CD206+ cell percentage tended to decrease at day 1 and then to increase the rest of the time. In the normal vocal fold, the majority of F4/80+ macrophages were only positive for CD206. F4/80+iNOS+CD206+ cells were observed at days 1 through 7.

Conclusion

The main population of injured sites gradually shifted from M1 to M2 marker‐positive macrophages in murine vocal folds. However, coexistence of M1 and M2 markers in the same macrophages was observed. Our results suggest that macrophage phenotypes are regulated by complex tissue‐derived signals and exhibit dynamic changes during wound healing.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 129:E135–E142, 2019
Multiple bioabsorbable corticosteroid‐eluting stent placement with associated skull base injury
Authors: Tang Dennis M. , Roxbury Christopher R. , Sindwani Raj , Kshettry Varun R. , Recinos Pablos , Woodard Troy D.
Published: December 2018

Bioabsorbable corticosteroid‐eluting sinus stents (BCES) are used to optimize healing after sinus surgery. We report a patient with BCES placed through a dural defect. A 70 year old underwent sinus surgery. Postoperatively, the patient developed mental status changes. The patient was taken to the operating room and eight BCES were identified, with one extending through the skull base. The stents were extracted and the defect was repaired. The patient recovered well. This is the first significant complication associated with BCES. Thorough review of preoperative imaging, understanding of skull base anatomy, and careful use of BCES are critical for safety.

Level of Evidence

NA

Laryngoscope, 129:1494–1496, 2019
Zooglider: An autonomous vehicle for optical and acoustic sensing of zooplankton
Authors: Ohman Mark D. , Davis Russ E. , Sherman Jeffrey T. , Grindley Kyle R. , Whitmore Benjamin M. , Nickels Catherine F. , Ellen Jeffrey S.
Published: December 2018

We present the design and preliminary results from ocean deployments of Zooglider, a new autonomous zooplankton‐sensing glider. Zooglider is a modified Spray glider that includes a low‐power camera (Zoocam) with telecentric lens and a custom dual frequency Zonar (200 and 1000 kHz). The Zoocam quantifies zooplankton and marine snow as they flow through a defined volume inside a sampling tunnel. Images are acquired on average every 5 cm from a maximum operating depth of ~ 400 m to the sea surface. Biofouling is mitigated using a dual approach: an ultraviolet light‐emitting diode and a mechanical wiper. The Zonar permits differentiation of large and small acoustic backscatterers in larger volumes than can be sampled optically. Other sensors include a pumped conductivity, temperature, and depth unit and chlorophyll a fluorometer. Zooglider enables fully autonomous in situ measurements of mesozooplankton distributions, together with the three‐dimensional orientation of organisms and marine snow in relation to other biotic and physical properties of the ocean water column. It is well suited to resolve thin layers and microscale ocean patchiness. Battery capacity supports 50 d of operations. Zooglider includes two‐way communications via Iridium, permitting near‐real–time transmission of data from each dive profile, as well as interactive instrument control from remote locations for adaptive sampling.
Mass spectrometry strategies to unveil modified aminophospholipids of biological interest
Authors: Colombo Simone , Domingues Pedro , Domingues M. Rosário
Published: December 2018

The biological functions of modified aminophospholipids (APL) have become a topic of interest during the last two decades, and distinct roles have been found for these biomolecules in both physiological and pathological contexts. Modifications of APL include oxidation, glycation, and adduction to electrophilic aldehydes, altogether contributing to a high structural variability of modified APL. An outstanding technique used in this challenging field is mass spectrometry (MS). MS has been widely used to unveil modified APL of biological interest, mainly when associated with soft ionization methods (electrospray and matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization) and coupled with separation techniques as liquid chromatography. This review summarizes the biological roles and the chemical mechanisms underlying APL modifications, and comprehensively reviews the current MS‐based knowledge that has been gathered until now for their analysis. The interpretation of the MS data obtained by in vitro‐identification studies is explained in detail. The perspective of an analytical detection of modified APL in clinical samples is explored, highlighting the fundamental role of MS in unveiling APL modifications and their relevance in pathophysiology.
The use of clade‐specific PCR assays to identify novel nitrilase genes from environmental isolates
Authors: Dooley‐Cullinane Tríona‐Marie , O'Reilly Catherine , Aslam Bilal , Weiner David P. , O'Neill David , Owens Erica , O'Meara Denise , Coffey Lee
Published: December 2018

Nitrilase enzymes (EC 3.5.5.1) are responsible for the direct hydration of nitriles to their corresponding carboxylic acids and ammonia. The utilization of nitrilase enzymes in biocatalysis toward bio‐pharmaceuticals and industrial applications facilitates the move towards green chemistry. The body of research presented describes a novel clade‐specific touchdown PCR protocol for the detection of novel nitrilase genes. The presented study identified partial sequences of 15 novel nitrilase genes across 7 genera, with partial DNA sequence homology (%) displayed across an additional 16 genera. This research will prove valuable in the screening of microorganisms for the identification of novel clade‐specific nitrilase genes, with predicted enantioselective profiles as determined by their clade characterizations.
Association of brain heptachlor epoxide and other organochlorine compounds with lewy pathology
Authors: Ross G. Webster , Abbott Robert D. , Petrovitch Helen , Duda John E. , Tanner Caroline M. , Zarow Chris , Uyehara‐Lock Jane H. , Masaki Kamal H. , Launer Lenore J. , Studabaker William B. , White Lon R.
Published: December 2018

Background

Organochlorine pesticides are associated with an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. A preliminary analysis from the Honolulu‐Asia Aging Study suggested that heptachlor epoxide, a metabolite from an organochlorine pesticide extensively used in Hawaii, may be especially important. This was a cross sectional analysis to evaluate the association of heptachlor epoxide and other organochlorine compounds with Lewy pathology in an expanded survey of brain organochlorine residues from the longitudinal Honolulu‐Asia Aging Study.

Methods

Organochlorines were measured in frozen occipital or temporal lobes in 705 brains using gas chromatography with mass spectrometry. Lewy pathology was identified using hematoxylin and eosin‐ and α‐synuclein immunochemistry‐stained sections from multiple brain regions.

Results

The prevalence of Lewy pathology was nearly doubled in the presence versus the absence of heptachlor epoxide (30.1% versus 16.3%, P < 0.001). Although associations with other compounds were weaker, hexachlorobenzene (P = 0.003) and α‐chlordane (P = 0.007) were also related to Lewy pathology. Most of the latter associations, however, were a result of confounding from heptachlor epoxide. Neither compound was significantly related to Lewy pathology after adjustment for heptachlor epoxide. In contrast, the association of heptachlor epoxide with Lewy pathology remained significant after adjustments for hexachlorobenzene (P = 0.013) or α‐chlordane (P = 0.005). Findings were unchanged after removal of cases of PD and adjustment for age and other characteristics.

Conclusions

Organochlorine pesticides are associated with the presence of Lewy pathology in the brain, even after exclusion of PD cases. Although most of the association is through heptachlor epoxide, the role of other organochlorine compounds is in need of clarification. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
LRRK2‐mediated Rab10 phosphorylation in immune cells from Parkinson's disease patients
Authors: Atashrazm Farzaneh , Hammond Deborah , Perera Gayathri , Bolliger Marc F. , Matar Elie , Halliday Glenda M. , Schüle Birgitt , Lewis Simon J.G. , Nichols R. Jeremy , Dzamko Nicolas
Published: December 2018

Background

Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 is a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of Parkinson's disease, and clinical trials of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 inhibitors are in development. The objective of this study was to evaluate phosphorylation of a new leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 substrate, Rab10, for potential use as a target engagement biomarker and/or patient enrichment biomarker for leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 inhibitor clinical trials.

Methods

Peripheral blood mononuclear cells and neutrophils were isolated from Parkinson's disease patients and matched controls, and treated ex vivo with a leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 inhibitor. Immunoblotting was used to measure levels of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 and Rab10 and their phosphorylation. Plasma inflammatory cytokines were measured by multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Mononuclear cells and neutrophils of both controls and Parkinson's disease patients responded the same to leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 inhibitor treatment. Leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 levels in mononuclear cells were the same in controls and Parkinson's disease patients, whereas leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 was significantly increased in Parkinson's disease neutrophils. Rab10 T73 phosphorylation levels were similar in controls and Parkinson's disease patients and did not correlate with leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 levels. Immune‐cell levels of leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 and Rab10 T73 phosphorylation were associated with plasma inflammatory cytokine levels.

Conclusions

Rab10 T73 phosphorylation appears to be a valid target engagement biomarker for potential use in leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 inhibitor clinical trials. However, a lack of association between leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 and Rab10 phosphorylation complicates the potential use of Rab10 phosphorylation as a patient enrichment biomarker. Although replication is required, increased leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 levels in neutrophils from Parkinson's disease patients may have the potential for patient stratification. leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 activity in peripheral immune cells may contribute to an inflammatory phenotype. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
Reproducible detection of nigral iron deposition in 2 Parkinson's disease cohorts
Authors: Langley Jason , He Naying , Huddleston Daniel E. , Chen Shengdi , Yan Fuhua , Crosson Bruce , Factor Stewart , Hu Xiaoping
Published: December 2018

Background

Previous studies investigating nigral iron accumulation used T2 or T2*‐weighted contrasts to define the regions of interest (ROIs) in the substantia nigra with mixed results. Because these contrasts are not sensitive to neuromelanin, ROIs may have inadvertently missed the SNpc. An approach sensitive to neuromelanin should yield consistent results. We examine iron deposition in ROIs derived from neuromelanin‐sensitive and T2*‐weighted contrasts, respectively.

Methods

T1‐weighted and multiecho gradient echo imaging data were obtained in 2 cohorts. Multiecho gradient echo imaging data were analyzed using neuromelanin‐sensitive SNpc ROIs as well as T2*‐weighted SNr ROIs.

Results

When compared with controls, significantly larger R2* values were seen in the SNpc of PD patients in both cohorts. Mean R2* values in the SNr of PD patients showed no consistency, with 1 cohort showing a small, statistically significant increase, whereas the other cohort exhibited no statistical difference.

Conclusion

Mean R2* in the SNpc defined by neuromelanin‐sensitive MRI is significantly increased in PD. © 2018 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society
A beam scanning continuous transverse stub array antenna for Ka‐band applications
Authors: Wang Weipeng , Huang Qiulin , Liu Zhenxing , Liu Hao , Shi Xiaowei
Published: December 2018

A hybrid structure continuous transverse stub (CTS) array antenna for Ka‐band is demonstrated in this article. The array comprises 16 radiating slots, the H‐plane horn antenna based on the substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) and is fed by a corporate‐feed network in parallel plate waveguide (PPW) technology. The scanning angle of the main beam of the antenna reaches ±40° through switching the horn feed. Measurement shows that the CTS antenna has an relative bandwidth of 17.2% from 26.5 to 31.5 GHz for the standards of |S11| < −10 dB. At the center frequency of 29 GHz, the antenna gain of 28 dBi is obtained, the H‐plane sidelobe level (SLL) is −28.5 dB, and the radiation efficiency reaches 90%. The measurements are in very good agreement with full‐wave simulation results. The proposed design is suitable for Satcom Ka‐band terminals in moving platforms, for example, ships and planes.
Prostate cancer classification with multiparametric MRI transfer learning model
Authors: Yuan Yixuan , Qin Wenjian , Buyyounouski Mark , Ibragimov Bulat , Hancock Steve , Han Bin , Xing Lei
Published: December 2018

Purpose

Prostate cancer classification has a significant impact on the prognosis and treatment planning of patients. Currently, this classification is based on the Gleason score analysis of biopsied tissues, which is neither accurate nor risk free. This study aims to learn discriminative features in prostate images and assist physicians in classifying prostate cancer automatically.

Methods

We develop a novel multiparametric magnetic resonance transfer learning (MPTL) method to automatically stage prostate cancer. We first establish a deep convolutional neural network with three branch architectures, which transfer pretrained model to compute features from multiparametric MRI images (mp‐MRI): T2w transaxial, T2w sagittal, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC). The learned features are concatenated to represent information of mp‐MRI sequences. A new image similarity constraint is then proposed to enable the distribution of the features within the same category in a narrow angle region. With the joint constraints of softmax loss and image similarity loss in the fine‐tuning process, the MPTL can provide descriptive features with intraclass compactness and interclass separability.

Results

Two cohorts: 132 cases from our institutional review board‐approved patient database and 112 cases from the PROSTATEx‐2 Challenge are utilized to evaluate the robustness and effectiveness of the proposed MPTL model. Our model achieved high accuracy of prostate cancer classification (accuracy of 86.92%). Moreover, the comparison results demonstrate that our method outperforms both hand‐crafted feature‐based methods and existing deep learning models in prostate cancer classification with higher accuracy.

Conclusion

The experiment results showed that the proposed method can learn discriminative features in prostate images and classify the cancer accurately. Our MPTL model could be further applied in the clinical practice to provide valuable information for cancer treatment and precision medicine.
Decrease in Operant Responding Under Obesogenic Diet Exposure is not Related to Deficits in Incentive or Hedonic Processes
Authors: Ducrocq Fabien , Hyde Alexia , Fanet Hortense , Oummadi Asma , Walle Roman , De Smedt‐Peyrusse Véronique , Layé Sophie , Ferreira Guillaume , Trifilieff Pierre , Vancassel Sylvie
Published: December 2018

Objective

A growing body of evidence suggests that obesity could result from alterations in reward processing. In rodent models, chronic exposure to an obesogenic diet leads to blunted dopamine signaling and related incentive responding. This study aimed to determine which reward‐related behavioral dimensions are actually impacted by obesogenic diet exposure.

Methods

Mice were chronically exposed to an obesogenic diet. Incentive and hedonic processes were tested through operant conditioning and licking microstructures, respectively. In parallel, mesolimbic dopamine transmission was assessed using microdialysis.

Results

Prolonged high‐fat (HF) diet exposure led to blunted mesolimbic dopamine release, paralleled by a decrease in operant responding in all schedules tested. HF‐fed and control animals similarly decreased their operant responding in an effort‐based choice task, and HF‐fed animals displayed an overall lower calorie intake in this task. Analysis of the licking microstructures during consumption of a freely accessible reward suggested a decrease in basal hunger and a potentiation of gastrointestinal inhibition in HF‐fed animals, without changes in hedonic reactivity.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the decrease in operant responding under prolonged HF diet exposure is mainly driven by decrease in hunger as well as stronger postingestive negative feedback mechanisms, rather than by a decrease in incentive or hedonic responses.
A facile strategy for preparing Gemini surfactant‐modified montmorillonite and its effect on the morphology and mechanical properties of polyethylene/polystyrene
Authors: Liu Zhitian , Ke Xianzhong , You Feng , Zhang Qi , Gao Xiang
Published: December 2018

A facile method was proposed to control the morphology and enhance the ultimate mechanical properties of polyethylene/polystyrene (PE/PS) by incorporating Gemini‐surfactant‐ organically modified montmorillonite (OMMT). OMMT was synthesized and incorporated into the immiscible PE/PS to fabricate composites. The effect of OMMT modified with a surfactant of different carbon chain length on the morphology and the final properties of the immiscible PE/PS polymer composites were investigated. FTIR and X‐ray diffraction characterizations revealed OMMT was successfully synthesized. Scanning electron microscopy observation revealed the morphologies of the PE/PS (70/30, w/w)/OMMT composites gradually transformed from “sea‐island” into the co‐continuous structure with the increase of the OMMT loading. The elongation at break of the PE/PS compatibilized with 1.5 wt% of Gemini C10‐MMT can reach as high as 700%. When compared with the PE/PS without OMMT, the flexural strength and modulus of the PE/PS/OMMT composites also have a remarkable enhancement with OMMT content. The flexural modulus of the PE/PS/OMMT composites with 1.5 wt% Gemini C10‐MMT was increased by 22%. POLYM. COMPOS., 40:3254–3263, 2019. © 2018 Society of Plastics Engineers
Influence of Polypharmacy on the Effectiveness and Safety of Rivaroxaban Versus Warfarin in Patients With Nonvalvular Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Martinez Brandon K. , Baker William L. , Sood Nitesh A. , Bunz Thomas J. , Meinecke Anna‐Katharina , Eriksson Daniel , Coleman Craig I.
Published: December 2018

Study Objective

Patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) often have multiple comorbidities requiring concomitant medications in addition to their oral anticoagulant (OAC). The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of polypharmacy on the effectiveness and safety of rivaroxaban versus warfarin in patients with NVAF managed in routine clinical practice.

Design

Retrospective claims analysis.

Data Source

United States Truven MarketScan database (November 2012–March 2017).

Patients

Adults who were OAC naïve during the 12 months before the day of the first qualifying rivaroxaban or warfarin dispensing (index date); had at least two International Classification of Diseases, Ninth or Tenth Revision diagnosis codes for atrial fibrillation without codes suggesting valvular heart disease; had at least 12 months of continuous insurance coverage prior to the qualifying OAC dispensing; and were experiencing polypharmacy (concomitant prescription claims for five or more unique chronic medication claims) were included. Patients who had concomitant prescription claims for ≥ 10 unique chronic medication claims constituted the substantial polypharmacy cohort used in the secondary analysis. Patients receiving rivaroxaban were propensity‐score matched in a 1:1 ratio to patients receiving warfarin (13,981 patients in each polypharmacy OAC group, and 1765 patients in each substantial polypharmacy OAC group).

Measurements and Main Results

Patients were followed until occurrence of an event (stroke or systemic embolism [SSE] combined [primary effectiveness outcome] or major bleeding [primary safety outcome]), OAC discontinuation or switch (30‐day permissible gap), insurance disenrollment, or end of follow‐up period. Rates of SSE, ischemic stroke, and major bleeding were compared by using Cox regression, reported as hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In patients with NVAF taking five or more chronic medications, rivaroxaban was associated with a 34% (95% CI 12–50) and 40% (95% CI 16–57) hazard reduction of SSE and ischemic stroke, respectively. Occurrence of major bleeding was similar between OAC cohorts (HR 1.08, 95% CI 0.92–1.28). A secondary analysis in patients with NVAF with substantial polypharmacy (taking ≥ 10 chronic medications) was also performed. Similar trends in SSE (HR 0.44), ischemic stroke alone (HR 0.62), and major bleeding (HR 1.07) were observed in patients with NVAF who had substantial polypharmacy, although 95% CIs crossed 1.0 for each outcome in this smaller study cohort.

Conclusion

This real‐world study suggests that in the setting of polypharmacy and NVAF, rivaroxaban is an effective and safe alternative to warfarin.
Why are the early elementary race/ethnicity test score gaps in science larger than those in reading or mathematics? National evidence on the importance of language and immigration context in explaining the gap‐in‐gaps
Authors: Curran F. Chris , Kitchin James
Published: December 2018

Recent work examining science test performance in the earliest grades of school has demonstrated that science test score gaps by race/ethnicity are apparent as early as kindergarten and that, in a number of cases, the racial/ethnic test score gaps in science are significantly larger than the corresponding gaps in reading or mathematics. This study explores the factors that explain the differences in the magnitudes of racial/ethnic disparities in performance on science standardized tests as compared to those in reading/mathematics. Drawing on nationally representative data from over 10,000 kindergartners in the 2010–2011 school year, this study employs regression models that examine the explanatory power of nine conceptual domains for explaining the “gap‐in‐gaps” or test score gap differences in science relative to mathematics or reading. Results indicate that the gap‐in‐gaps is relatively unchanged by the inclusion of many conceptual domains but that students' language and immigration contexts do explain substantial portions of the gap‐in‐gaps for Hispanic and Asian students. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Policy Recommendations for Africa
Authors: Park Jong-Dae
Published: December 2018

This section presents comprehensive policy recommendations for Africa. The overarching theme is ‘the need for drastic turnaround’. An important question asked here is: ‘What induces people to act?’ The mechanism of incentives and sanctions, and how they should be framed to make societies developmental, are elaborated upon. The chapter assesses the present structure of economic development in Africa and points out the essential principles or elements that are lacking. Out of this, a new development formula for Africa is deduced. The author also touches upon government reform and economic policies. In closing, he stresses the need for education in ethics and mindset change.
Review of Conventional Explanations
Authors: Park Jong-Dae
Published: December 2018

This chapter is aimed at objectively assessing various possible reasons for Africa’s poverty and underdevelopment. It reviews the conventional or popular explanations for Africa’s prolonged predicament, as well as other factors possibly negatively impacting Africa. The topics addressed are colonial legacies, ethnicism and neo-patrimonialism; institutions, governance and democracy, the role of government; natural conditions like climate and geography, and other factors including corruption and globalization. The author sizes up the existing views or discourses from critical perspective and, in the process, sheds new lights on what are commonly misunderstood.
Finding the Missing Links
Authors: Park Jong-Dae
Published: December 2018

This chapter takes a step further in the methodical ‘building-block’ approach aimed at deriving ultimate solutions for Sub-Saharan African countries’ development. At the outset, the nature of Africa’s underperformance, especially in comparison to Asian countries, is characterized as the question regarding ‘intent’ and ‘internalization’ of development. Then, the ‘missing links’ of Africa’s development, the basic but crucial elements for development that are generally weak or deficient in the Sub-Saharan African countries are introduced: a sense of nation or national identity; ‘development-mindedness’; and the strong role of the state. A key analytical concept highlighted and detailed here is ‘development-mindedness’ or ‘KPOP’, which stands for ‘knowledge’, ‘practising’, ‘owning’ and ‘passion’.
Korea’s Path of Development in Retrospect
Authors: Park Jong-Dae
Published: December 2018

Here, the case of Korea’s development is examined applying the same ‘building-block’ approach. This chapter scrutinizes Korea’s evolution in a time-linear and multi-dimensional fashion, taking us through its historical background, liberation and state-building, and its ‘economic miracle’ period and beyond. The author then recaps the overall achievements of South Korea and presents the ‘schematic itinerary of Korea’s development’ which epitomizes Korea’s path of economic and socio-political transformation. A key feature of Korea’s development is described in terms of compressed development both in the economic and socio-political realms.
Applicability of the Korean Development Model for Africa
Authors: Park Jong-Dae
Published: December 2018

This chapter and the ensuing chapters constitute a crucial part of this work where the Korean model of development is applied to Sub-Saharan Africa. The ideas discussed here form the integral part of the ‘building-bridge’ approach, which aims at linking Africa to Korea’s development model. At the outset, the lessons of the fundamentals of economics and industrialization are cited. This is followed by reflections on Korea’s past circumstances and Africa’s current situation. It concludes with an assessment on the relevance of the Korean developmental model for Sub-Saharan African nations.
A qualitative investigation of expected versus actual initial sexual experiences before age 16
Authors: Garceau Camille , Ronis Scott T.
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Individuals often develop expectations prior to their initial sexual experiences based on external messages from peers and the broader culture. According to sexual script theory (Simon & Gagnon, 1986), these expectations form schemas about how an initial sexual experience should occur. When reality deviates from these schemas, dissatisfaction can occur (McCormick, 1987). The current study examines the contrast between expectations and reported initial sexual experiences before age 16.

Methods

Forty young adult participants were recruited from four local Atlantic Canadian universities (77.5% women; M age = 20.20, SD = 1.31; 75% heterosexual; 77.5% Caucasian). Semi‐structured qualitative interviews on participants' actual initial sexual experiences, expectations of initial sexual experiences, and perceived consequences of initial sexual experiences were conducted. Thematic analysis of the interviews was conducted using a grounded theory framework.

Results

Findings indicated that respondents’ expectations were influenced by sources such as various media, peers, family, and religion. Initial sexual experiences reportedly met, surpassed, or failed to meet participants' expectations. The presence or absence of a discrepancy between expected and actual sexual experiences was perceived to shape subsequent sexual encounters. A theoretical model of development and adaptations of sexual experience expectations was developed in accordance with these results.

Conclusions

Comparisons between expected and actual initial sexual experiences can be perceived by youth as having consequences on their personal and interpersonal well‐being. Honest communication between parents, educators, and youth should therefore be prioritized in order to establish more realistic expectations of initial sexual experiences.
Scope and extent of healthcare-associated Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus transmission during two contemporaneous outbreaks in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, 2017
Authors: Alanazi Khalid H. , Killerby Marie E. , Biggs Holly M. , Abedi Glen R. , Jokhdar Hani , Alsharef Ali A. , Mohammed Mutaz , Abdalla Osman , Almari Aref , Bereagesh Samar , Tawfik Sameh , Alresheedi Husain , Alhakeem Raafat F. , Hakawi Ahmed , Alfalah Haitham , Amer Hala , Thornburg Natalie J. , Tamin Azaibi , Trivedi Suvang , Tong Suxiang , Lu Xiaoyan , Queen Krista , Li Yan , Sakthivel Senthilkumar K. , Tao Ying , Zhang Jing , Paden Clinton R. , Al-Abdely Hail M. , Assiri Abdullah M. , Gerber Susan I. , Watson John T.
Published: December 2018

Objective

To investigate a Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV) outbreak event involving multiple healthcare facilities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; to characterize transmission; and to explore infection control implications.

Design

Outbreak investigation.

Setting

Cases presented in 4 healthcare facilities in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: a tertiary-care hospital, a specialty pulmonary hospital, an outpatient clinic, and an outpatient dialysis unit.

Methods

Contact tracing and testing were performed following reports of cases at 2 hospitals. Laboratory results were confirmed by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR) and/or genome sequencing. We assessed exposures and determined seropositivity among available healthcare personnel (HCP) cases and HCP contacts of cases.

Results

In total, 48 cases were identified, involving patients, HCP, and family members across 2 hospitals, an outpatient clinic, and a dialysis clinic. At each hospital, transmission was linked to a unique index case. Moreover, 4 cases were associated with superspreading events (any interaction where a case patient transmitted to ≥5 subsequent case patients). All 4 of these patients were severely ill, were initially not recognized as MERS-CoV cases, and subsequently died. Genomic sequences clustered separately, suggesting 2 distinct outbreaks. Overall, 4 (24%) of 17 HCP cases and 3 (3%) of 114 HCP contacts of cases were seropositive.

Conclusions

We describe 2 distinct healthcare-associated outbreaks, each initiated by a unique index case and characterized by multiple superspreading events. Delays in recognition and in subsequent implementation of control measures contributed to secondary transmission. Prompt contact tracing, repeated testing, HCP furloughing, and implementation of recommended transmission-based precautions for suspected cases ultimately halted transmission.
“Evil Disposed Netherlanders”: The Dutch West India Company’s Opposition to Danish Activity on the Gold Coast, 1657–1662
Authors: Svensli Fredrik Hyrum
Published: December 2018

The aim of this article is to analyse the on-the-spot interaction between agents of the Dutch West India Company and Danish African Company and African rulers on the Gold Coast from 1657 to 1662. The region saw a surge in European activity and rivalry in this period. The Scandinavian trading companies have received less scholarly attention compared to the Dutch and the English. The Danish African Company was an undercover Dutch enterprise, and has traditionally been studied from a purely Dutch or Danish standpoint. However, by combining Dutch and Danish sources and focusing on Dutch opposition to “Danish” activity on the Gold Coast, which incorporated local rulers, the author has challenged nationalistic and Eurocentric approaches in the historiography. Moreover, by concentrating on the forgotten but nonetheless strategically important site of Akong, the author identifies how local dynamics influenced the evolution of the Dutch and Danish maritime empires.
Introduction & overview
Authors: Stamatopoulou Maria
Published: December 2018

This brief introduction presents the structure and contents of the current issue of Archaeology in Greece, linking the various contributions to events or very recent discoveries that were reported in the press in the period immediately before the completion of this issue. It also offers an overview (not meant to be exhaustive) of archaeological activity in Greece over the past 12 months, focusing on major exhibitions and new museum openings, important academic conferences and recent publications.
The work of the British School at Athens, 2017–2018
Authors: Bennet John
Published: December 2018

This article, based on an oral presentation by the author at its Annual General Meeting in February 2018, summarizes the activities of the British School at Athens with a focus on the calendar year 2017. It describes – selectively and concisely – research by award holders, BSA-sponsored fieldwork in 2017 at six locations (Olynthos, Koutroulou Magoula, Prosilio, Kythera, Dhaskalio-Keros and Knossos), research and events associated with the Fitch Laboratory and the Knossos Research Centre, plus other activities of the BSA in Greece and the UK, including seminars, conferences and workshops.
The basin of Ioannina in central Epirus, northwestern Greece, from the Early Iron Age to the Roman period
Authors: Pliakou Georgia
Published: December 2018

This article offers an overview of the habitation history of the basin of Ioannina Epirus, from the Early Iron Age to the Roman period. The numerous settlements in this region experienced continuous, often uninterrupted, habitation from the Late Bronze Age to the Hellenistic or even Roman Imperial period. The foundation of fortified settlements/acropoleis in the late fourth to early third century BC should no longer be interpreted as a result of a synoecism, since unfortified villages continued to flourish. From the Augustan period onwards, Romans seem to have settled in the area, although it is also possible that the local population adopted Roman habits.
Crisis, austerity measures and beyond: archaeology in Greece since the global financial crisis
Authors: Plantzos Dimitris
Published: December 2018

This article, covering the roughly decade-long ‘Greek crisis’ (2008–2018), uses official statistics in order to examine the effects the prolonged recession has had on archaeology in Greece. As the data show, although revenues from museums and archaeological sites have risen considerably (a side effect of ‘crisis tourism’, among other factors), state spending on archaeological research is insufficient. Furthermore, the steady collapse of the state apparatus during this long decade has seriously affected archaeology and the ways it is practised in the country, ultimately leading to the loss of an entire generation of Greek archaeologists.
How Accurately Should We Model Ice Shelf Melt Rates?
Authors: Goldberg D. N. , Gourmelen N. , Kimura S. , Millan R. , Snow K.
Published: December 2018

Assessment of ocean‐forced ice sheet loss requires that ocean models be able to represent sub‐ice shelf melt rates. However, spatial accuracy of modeled melt is not well investigated, and neither is the level of accuracy required to assess ice sheet loss. Focusing on a fast‐thinning region of West Antarctica, we calculate spatially resolved ice‐shelf melt from satellite altimetry and compare against results from an ocean model with varying representations of cavity geometry and ocean physics. Then, we use an ice‐flow model to assess the impact of the results on grounded ice. We find that a number of factors influence model‐data agreement of melt rates, with bathymetry being the leading factor; but this agreement is only important in isolated regions under the ice shelves, such as shear margins and grounding lines. To improve ice sheet forecasts, both modeling and observations of ice‐ocean interactions must be improved in these critical regions.
Impact of Lithospheric Strength Distribution on India‐Eurasia Deformation From 3‐D Geodynamic Models
Authors: Bischoff Sarah , Flesch Lucy
Published: December 2018

Models for continental lithospheric strength are not well resolved due to a lack of direct measurement; however, numerical simulations provide means for evaluating the physicality of endmember cases. We simulate the 3‐D dynamics of continental lithosphere within the India‐Eurasia collision zone and compare results to observed deformation. Three‐dimensional lithospheric deformation is approximated with creeping flow in a layered spherical cap. We partition strength with depth according to endmember models, using laterally varying estimates of vertically averaged effective viscosity to constrain the absolute values of 3‐D viscosity in the upper crustal and mantle layers. Comparisons between dynamic solutions and observed geophysical data indicate: (1) Deformation within the subducted Indian slab is required to simulate uplift along the entire Himalayan front with 1022 Pa·s representing an upper bound for slab strength. (2) Along‐strike variations in crustal strength are necessary to match surface observations. (3) Balance of gravitational forces acting on Tibetan lithosphere with a weak lower crust are able to replicate observed vertical deformation patterns. A west‐to‐east decrease in the lateral extent of the underthrust Indian slab is required for reproducing observed surface motions in Tibet. Geodynamic simulations yield subsidence in southern Qiangtang and Southeast Asia consistent with global positioning system‐derived dilatation. We note a trade‐off between upper crustal strength and surface velocity rotation around the Eastern Himalayan syntaxis. Simulations with stronger upper crust replicate velocities in western Tibet but not the east, while those with weaker upper crust produce observed rotation in eastern Tibet but overpredict magnitudes to the west.
Enhanced Resolution of the Subducting Plate Interface in Central Alaska From Autocorrelation of Local Earthquake Coda
Authors: Kim Doyeon , Keranen Katie M. , Abers Geoffrey A. , Brown Larry D.
Published: December 2018

Subducting plates below 10‐km depth are primarily imaged using phases from teleseismic earthquakes at frequencies dominantly below 1 Hz, resulting in low‐resolution images compared to fault zone thickness. Here we image the plate boundary zone in Alaska using scattered body wave arrivals in local earthquake coda to produce a higher‐resolution image of the slab. An autocorrelation method successfully extracts coherent arrivals from the local earthquake signals. Our autocorrelation results image interfaces associated with the subducting oceanic plate at higher resolution than our teleseismic receiver functions, with increased coherence and sharper boundaries. Our results provide one of the first coherent structural images of the seismogenic zone using scattered local body waves. Amplitudes suggest that seismic wave speed decreases with increasing depth within the low‐velocity zone, supporting lithologic rather than purely overpressure models for the zone in our region. Similar methodologies using dense stations could provide higher‐resolution images to characterize crustal and uppermost mantle boundaries globally.
SG formation relies on eIF4GI-G3BP interaction which is targeted by picornavirus stress antagonists
Authors: Yang Xiaodan , Hu Zhulong , Zhang Qiang , Fan Shanshan , Zhong Yi , Guo Dong , Qin Yali , Chen Mingzhou
Published: December 2018

Typical stress granules (tSGs) are stalled translation pre-initiation complex aggregations in the cytoplasm, and their formation is a common consequence of translation initiation inhibition under stress. We previously found that 2A protease of picornaviruses blocks tSG formation and induces atypical SG formation, but the molecular mechanism by which 2A inhibits tSG formation remains unclear. Here, we found that eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4 gamma1 (eIF4GI) is critical for tSG formation by interacting with Ras-GTPase-activating protein SH3-domain-binding protein (G3BP), and this interaction is mediated by aa 182–203 of eIF4GI and the RNA-binding domain of G3BP. Upon eIF4GI-G3BP interaction, eIF4GI can assemble into tSGs and rescue tSG formation. Finally, we found that 2A or L protein of picornaviruses blocks tSG formation by disrupting eIF4GI-G3BP interaction. Our findings provide the first evidence that eIF4GI-G3BP interaction is indispensable for tSG formation, and 2A or L protein of picornaviruses interferes eIF4GI-G3BP interaction, thereby blocking tSG formation.
Halogen-bonded cocrystallization with phosphorus, arsenic and antimony acceptors
Authors: Lisac Katarina , Topić Filip , Arhangelskis Mihails , Cepić Sara , Julien Patrick A. , Nickels Christopher W. , Morris Andrew J. , Friščić Tomislav , Cinčić Dominik
Published: December 2018

The formation of non-covalent directional interactions, such as hydrogen or halogen bonds, is a central concept of materials design, which hinges on using small compact atoms of the 2nd period, notably nitrogen and oxygen, as acceptors. Heavier atoms are much less prominent in that context, and mostly limited to sulfur. Here, we report the experimental observation and theoretical study of halogen bonds to phosphorus, arsenic and antimony in the solid state. Combining 1,3,5-trifluoro-2,4,6-triiodobenzene with triphenylphosphine, -arsine, and -stibine provides cocrystals based on I···P, I···As and I···Sb halogen bonds. The demonstration that increasingly metallic pnictogens form halogen bonds sufficiently strong to enable cocrystal formation is an advance in supramolecular chemistry which opens up opportunities in materials science, as shown by colossal thermal expansion of the cocrystal involving I···Sb halogen bonds.
Sub-stoichiometry-facilitated oxidation kinetics in a δ-TixC-doped Ti-based alloy
Authors: Wei Shaolou , Huang Lujun , Zhu Yuntong , Shi Zhe , Li Xinting , Geng Lin
Published: December 2018

Titanium carbide has been widely considered as a stabilizer to alleviate the serious chemical activity of Ti-based alloys at elevated temperatures. However, a reverse effect may also take place: we show the sub-stoichiometry characteristic of δ-TixC can facilitate the oxidation kinetics of a Ti-6Al-4V alloy to a significant extent. In particular, oxygen atoms tend to preferentially occupy the vacant carbon sites within the Ti2C phase, giving rise to a higher oxidation rate. The intrinsic mechanisms were understood with a combination of ab initio simulation and experimental validation.
Joule overheating poisons the fractional ac Josephson effect in topological Josephson junctions
Authors: Le Calvez Kévin , Veyrat Louis , Gay Frédéric , Plaindoux Philippe , Winkelmann Clemens B. , Courtois Hervé , Sacépé Benjamin
Published: December 2018

Topological Josephson junctions designed on the surface of a 3D-topological insulator harbor Majorana bound states among a continuum of conventional Andreev bound states. The distinct feature of these Majorana bound states lies in the 4π-periodicity of their energy-phase relation that yields a fractional ac Josephson effect and a suppression of odd Shapiro steps under radio-frequency irradiation. Yet, recent experiments showed that a few, or only the first, odd Shapiro steps are missing, casting doubts on the interpretation. Here we show that Josephson junctions tailored on the large bandgap 3D-topological insulator Bi2Se3 exhibit a fractional ac Josephson effect acting on the first Shapiro step only. With a modified resistively shunted junction model, we demonstrate that the resilience of higher order odd Shapiro steps can be accounted for by thermal poisoning driven by Joule overheating. Furthermore, we uncover a residual supercurrent at the nodes between Shapiro lobes, which provides a direct and novel signature of the current carried by the Majorana bound states. Our findings showcase the crucial role of thermal effects in topological Josephson junctions and lend support to the Majorana origin of the partial suppression of odd Shapiro steps.
An adapted method for analyzing 4H silicon carbide metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors
Authors: Hauck Martin , Lehmeyer Johannes , Pobegen Gregor , Weber Heiko B. , Krieger Michael
Published: December 2018

Silicon carbide (SiC) metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) are key devices for next-generation power electronics. However, accurate determination of device parameters from 3-terminal characteristics is hampered by the presence of interface traps. Here we present a method that, in contrast to previous evaluation schemes, explicitly considers those defects. A well-tractable parametrization of the SiC/SiO2-specific interface trap spectrum is introduced that reflects the body of known data. With this ingredient, we develop an analysis that targets for an accurate determination of device parameters from simple 3-terminal characteristics. For its validation, we investigate MOSFETs with significantly different defect densities. The resulting parameters – charge carrier density, mobility and threshold voltage – are in excellent agreement with Hall effect investigations on the very same devices, avoiding systematic errors inherent to conventional evaluation techniques. With this adapted scheme, 4H-SiC power MOSFETs, even packaged, can be meaningfully characterized, speeding up innovation cycles in energy-saving power electronics.
Enhanced trimethoxypyrimidine degradation by piezophotocatalysis of BaTiO3/Ag3PO4 using mechanical vibration and visible light simultaneously
Authors: Lan Shenyu , Zeng Xiangkang , Rather Rayees Ahmad , Lo Irene Man Chi
Published: December 2018

The piezophotocatalysis of BaTiO3/Ag3PO4 could enhance trimethoxypyrimidine degradation by promoting photo-generated electron–hole separation and utilizing ambient mechanical and light energies simultaneously.
Biomolecule-derived quantum dots for sustainable optoelectronics
Authors: Bhandari Satyapriya , Mondal Dibyendu , Nataraj S. K. , Balakrishna R. Geetha
Published: December 2018

The recent advances in sustainable optoelectronics applications of quantum dots derived from different biomolecules are documented in this review.
Protonation of Verkade bases: a theoretical study
Authors: Ullah Sabnam S. , Rohman Shahnaz S. , Kashyap Chayanika , Guha Ankur Kanti
Published: December 2018

The dilemma of favorable protonation at less basic phosphorus rather than more basic nitrogen in Verkade bases has been resolved.