bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictors of freedom from atrial arrhythmia recurrence after cryoballoon ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation: A multicenter study
Authors: Reissmann Bruno , Plenge Tobias , Heeger Christian‐Hendrik , Schlüter Michael , Wohlmuth Peter , Fink Thomas , Rottner Laura , Tilz Roland Richard , Mathew Shibu , Lemeš Christine , Maurer Tilman , Lüker Jakob , Sultan Arian , Bellmann Barbara , Goldmann Britta , Ouyang Feifan , Kuck Karl‐Heinz , Metzner Andreas , Steven Daniel , Rillig Andreas
Published: June 2019

Aims

We sought to assess (1) clinical outcomes of second‐generation cryoballoon (CB) ablation for persistent atrial fibrillation (AF), and (2) the association of baseline and procedural covariates with atrial arrhythmia recurrence (AAR) after ablation.

Methods

A total of 135 patients (63 ± 11 years, 96 men [71%]) with persistent AF underwent CB ablation at three experienced electrophysiology centers. Freedom from AAR was estimated with the Kaplan‐Meier method. A Cox proportional‐hazards model was used to estimate the effects of baseline and procedural covariates on the likelihood of AAR.

Results

Freedom from AAR at 6, 12, and 18 months was estimated at 91% (95% confidence interval [CI] 86%‐96%), 75% (95% CI, 67%‐83%), and 53% (95% CI, 43%‐65%), respectively. The presence of an implantable cardiac device (Hazard ratio [HR] 3.09; 95% CI, 1.37‐7.00; P = .007), a left atrial (LA) diameter > 50 mm (HR 1.69; 95% CI, 1.02‐2.79; P = .043), and absence of antiarrhythmic drug (AAD) therapy before the ablation procedure (HR 3.12; 95% CI, 1.72‐5.64; P < .001) were associated with AAR. A trend toward an increased risk of AAR was revealed for women (HR 1.73; 95% CI, 0.96‐3.11; P = .069).

Conclusions

CB ablation for persistent AF resulted in freedom from AAR about that reported for RF ablation. The presence of an implantable cardiac device, LA size, and absence of AAD therapy at baseline were associated with the risk of AAR.
Use of a novel bipolar sealer device in pocket infections: A case series
Authors: Schaller Robert D. , Santangeli Pasquale , Tomczuk Liza , Frankel David S.
Published: June 2019

Background

Cardiac implantable electronic device pocket infections require complete system removal. However, postoperative bleeding and hematoma can occur after extensive debridement and an optimal management strategy has yet to be defined.

Methods

Following system removal and debridement, all pockets were treated with the Aquamantys bipolar sealer until hemostasis of the underlying tissue was achieved. Clinical characteristics, sealer application time, and postoperative outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Thirteen consecutive patients were included with an average age of 61.6 years and 8/13 were male. One patient had both pocket infection and systemic bacteremia. Explanted devices included three pacemakers, nine transvenous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICD), and one subcutaneous ICD. The average number of leads extracted was 2.08 ± 1.04 with a median lead dwell time of 75 months (range, 1‐265). Pocket tissue culture yielded Streptococcus anginosus (1), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (2), Staphylococcus epidermidis (1), Staphylococcus aureus (1), and no growth (8). Average time using the Aquamantys was 5.6 ± 2.75 minutes per patient. Twelve out of thirteen pockets were closed by primary intention with one pocket packed and left to heal via secondary intention. A Jackson‐Pratt drain was used in three patients and removed within 3 days. There were no hematomas noted during the acute hospitalization or during follow up and all of the wounds healed completely.

Conclusions

Use of a novel bipolar sealing device in lieu of traditional electrocautery provided rapid and durable hemostasis with the ability to close almost all of the pockets via primary intention.
Supra‐alveolar attachment gain in the treatment of combined intra‐suprabony periodontal defects by non‐incised papillae surgical approach
Authors: Moreno Rodríguez Jose A. , Ortiz Ruiz Antonio J. , Caffesse Raúl G.
Published: June 2019

Aim

To assess the effectiveness of non‐incised papillae surgical approach (NIPSA) in periodontal reconstructive surgery of combined intra‐suprabony defects.

Materials and Methods

Patients with deep periodontal defects treated with NIPSA (n = 20) were analysed. Defects were treated with enamel matrix derivative plus xenograft. Clinical outcomes were assessed before surgery and at 12 months. Wound closure was assessed one week post‐surgery. Supra‐alveolar attachment gain (SUPRA‐AG) was recorded at 12 months post‐surgery.

Results

Non‐incised papillae surgical approach showed significant improvements in clinical attachment gain (5.9 ± 2.38 mm; p < 0.001), recession reduction (0.25 ± 0.44; p < 0.05) and tip of the papillae coronal displacement (0.4 ± 0.5; p < 0.05). It also showed complete wound closure of the apical mucosal incision in the 85% of the cases, with no interproximal tissue necrosis. SUPRA‐AG (1.9 ± 1.74) showed a positive tendency, associated with complete intrabony defect resolution.

Conclusions

Non‐incised papillae surgical approach promoted primary intention healing, wound stability and space provision for optimal periodontal reconstruction, preserving supra‐alveolar soft tissue integrity.
Effects of electronic medical records on patient safety culture: The perspective of nurses
Authors: Özer Özlem , Şantaş Fatih
Published: June 2019

Objectives

This study investigates the effects of nurses' views regarding electronic medical records on patient safety culture.

Methods

The implementation part of the study was conducted with nurses working in seven state hospitals in the Burdur province of Turkey. The data were collected between 15 March and 20 April 2018. Correlation and multiple regression analyses were performed to evaluate the relationships among the variables in the study. In addition, descriptive analyses (mean, standard deviation) and Cronbach α coefficients of reliability of the scales were also used.

Results

The results of the analyses revealed that control variables (gender, educational level, age, etc) and all dimensions of electronic medical records affected all three dimensions of patient safety culture. The control variables and all dimensions of electronic medical records explained 41% of the total variance in perceptions of process, 42.5% of the total variance in management support for patient safety, and 27.9% of the total variance in perceptions of safety.

Discussion

This study provides insight concerning the effects of nurses' views of electronic medical records on patient safety culture. The results of the study reveal that nurses' views of electronic medical records affect the perception of patient safety culture positively.

Conclusions

It is recommended that further studies be conducted on topics such as the use of medical records and the development of patient safety. Health care managers should encourage nurses to undergo training and educational efforts on electronic medical records and patient safety.
Fish photobacteriosis—The importance of rapid and accurate identification of Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida
Authors: Pečur Kazazić Snježana , Topić Popović Natalija , Strunjak‐Perović Ivančica , Florio Daniela , Fioravanti Maria , Babić Sanja , Čož‐Rakovac Rozelindra
Published: June 2019

MALDI‐TOF MS was tested for the identification of Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida on isolates grown on two media, cultured at three incubation times and applied on the target plate by the direct sample spotting (DS), by the on‐target extraction (OTE) and by the full extraction (FE) method, in triplicates. The identification of samples grown on blood agar (BA) outperformed identification on tryptic soya agar (TSA) by 0.64% for DS and OTE. The OTE gave the highest scores in both culture media, all incubation times and replicates. Reliable 24‐hr species identification was 61.54%, 84.61% and 53.85% for samples grown on TSA and identified by DS, OTE and FE, respectively. For isolates grown on BA, they were 76.92%, 96.15% and 30.77%, respectively. When identified by OTE, the 48‐hr identification was 93.58%, but for 72 hr declined to 71.79%. The reliable identification with the highest score from the first measurement was 100% only for OTE from BA (24 hr), whereas OTE from TSA gave 84.61% (24 hr), 76.92% (48 hr) and 84.61% (72 hr). The reliable MALDI‐TOF MS identification of Ph. damselae subsp. piscicida is incubation time, media, target plate preparation and replicate‐dependent.
From the urban metabolism to the urban immune system
Authors: Bristow David N. , Mohareb Eugene A.
Published: June 2019

Urban areas face mounting risks from many sources. Cities pursue myriad tactics to resist, recover from and adapt to shocks and stresses, but little is known about how these approaches relate across the scales of a city nor how cities compare in their abilities. Part of the challenge in addressing these gaps is that the risk to cities is typically studied with an emphasis on one or a few hazards or through the lens of a singular sector. This paper proposes a framework, dubbed the Urban Immune System (UIS) to coalesce and expand industrial ecology research on urban risk management. In the same way that Urban Metabolism (UM) is a unifying framework for urban environmental sustainability, UIS can be a unifying framework for urban resilience, especially related to climate change. Herein, UIS is defined, its many capabilities are dissected and linked to disparate studies; and opportunities for application of the concept are provided. The paper concludes by examining the relationship between UIS and climate change and by identifying those attributes of the UIS that are expected to be of increasing importance under climate change.
Cardiac autonomic dynamics during sleep are lost in patients with TIA and stroke
Authors: Tobaldini Eleonora , Proserpio Paola , Oppo Valentina , Figorilli Michela , Fiorelli Elisa M. , Manconi Mauro , Agostoni Elio C. , Nobili Lino , Montano Nicola , Horvath Thomas , Bassetti Claudio L.
Published: June 2019

Ischaemic stroke is accompanied by important alterations of cardiac autonomic control, which have an impact on stroke outcome. In sleep, cardiac autonomic control oscillates with a predominant sympathetic modulation during REM sleep. We aimed to assess cardiac autonomic control in different sleep stages in patients with ischaemic stroke. Forty‐five patients enrolled in the prospective, multicentre SAS‐CARE study but without significant sleep‐disordered breathing (apnea–hypopnea index < 15/hr) and without atrial fibrillation were included in this analysis. The mean age was 56 years, 68% were male, 76% had a stroke (n = 34, mean National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale [NIHSS] score of 5, 11 involving the insula) and 24% (n = 11) had a transitory ischaemic attack. Cardiac autonomic control was evaluated using three different tools (spectral, symbolic and entropy analysis) according to sleep stages on short segments of 250 beats in all patients. Polysomnographic studies were performed within 7 days and 3 months after the ischaemic event. No significant differences in cardiac autonomic control between sleep stages were observed in the acute phase and after 3 months. Predominant vagal modulation and decreased sympathetic modulation were observed across all sleep stages in ischaemic stroke involving the insula. Patients with ischaemic stroke and transitory ischaemic attack present a loss of cardiac autonomic dynamics during sleep in the first 3 months after the ischaemic event. This change could represent an adaptive phenomenon, protecting the cardiovascular system from the instabilities of autonomic control, or a risk factor for stroke, which precedes the ischaemic event.
Understanding the effect of repeated administration of meloxicam on feline renal cortex and medulla: A lipidomics and metabolomics approach
Authors: Rivera‐Velez Sol M. , Broughton‐Neiswanger Liam E. , Suarez Martin A. , Slovak Jennifer E. , Hwang Julianne K. , Navas Jinna , Leung Amy W. S. , Piñeyro Pablo E. , Villarino Nicolas F.
Published: June 2019

Repeated administration of meloxicam can cause kidney damage in cats by mechanisms that remain unclear. Metabolomics and lipidomics are powerful, noninvasive approaches used to investigate tissue response to drug exposure. Thus, the objective of this study was to assess the effects of meloxicam on the feline kidney using untargeted metabolomics and lipidomics approaches. Female young‐adult purpose‐breed cats were allocated into the control (n = 4) and meloxicam (n = 4) groups. Cats in the control and meloxicam groups were treated daily with saline and meloxicam at 0.3 mg/kg subcutaneously for 17 days, respectively. Renal cortices and medullas were collected at the end of the treatment period. Random forest and metabolic pathway analyses were used to identify metabolites that discriminate meloxicam‐treated from saline‐treated cats and to identify disturbed metabolic pathways in renal tissue. Our results revealed that the repeated administration of meloxicam to cats altered the kidney metabolome and lipidome and suggest that at least 40 metabolic pathways were altered in the renal cortex and medulla. These metabolic pathways included lipid, amino acid, carbohydrate, nucleotide and energy metabolisms, and metabolism of cofactors and vitamins. This is the first study using a pharmacometabonomics approach for studying the molecular effects of meloxicam on feline kidneys.
U‐Pb SIMS ages of Apollo 14 zircon: Identifying distinct magmatic episodes
Authors: Thiessen F. , Nemchin A. A. , Snape J. F. , Whitehouse M. J.
Published: June 2019

U‐Pb ages of zircon in four different Apollo 14 breccias (14305, 14306, 14314, and 14321) were obtained by secondary ion mass spectrometry. Some of the analyzed grains occur as cogenetic, poikilitic zircon grains in lithic clasts, revealing magmatic events at ~4286 Ma, ~4200–4220 Ma, and ~4150 Ma. The age distribution of the crystal clasts in the breccias exhibits a minor peak at ~4210 Ma, which can be attributed to a magmatic event, as recorded in zircon grains located in noritic clasts. An age peak at ~4335 Ma is present in all four breccias, as well as zircon grains from different Apollo landing sites, enhancing the confidence that these grains recorded a global zircon‐forming event. The overall age distribution among the four breccias exhibits minor differences between the breccias collected farther away from the Cone Crater and the ones collected within the continuous ejecta blanket of the Cone Crater. A granular zircon grain yielded a 207Pb/206Pb age of 3936 ± 8 Ma, which is interpreted as an impact event. A similar age of 3941 ± 5 Ma (n = 17, MSWD = 0.89, P = 0.58) was obtained for a large zircon grain (~430 × 340 μm in size). This grain might have crystallized in the same impact melt sheet which formed the granular zircon or the age is representative of the final extrusion of KREEP magma. The majority of zircon grains, however, occur as isolated crystal clasts within the matrix and their ages cannot be correlated with any real events (impact or magmatic) nor can the possibility be excluded that these ages represent partial resetting of the U‐Pb system.
Are there sex differences in visceral sensitivity in young healthy men and women?
Authors: Icenhour Adriane , Labrenz Franziska , Roderigo Till , Siebert Carsten , Elsenbruch Sigrid , Benson Sven
Published: June 2019

Background

Visceral hypersensitivity plays a key role in the pathophysiology of chronic visceral pain like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), which is significantly more prevalent in women. Possible sex differences in visceral sensitivity remain poorly studied. We assessed sex differences in visceral sensitivity and their association with subclinical symptoms, trait anxiety, and chronic stress in a large sample of healthy men and women.

Methods

In 280 young healthy volunteers (50% female), visceral sensory and pain thresholds were determined using rectal balloon distensions. Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, chronic stress, and trait anxiety as IBS‐related risk factors were assessed with questionnaires. Men and women were compared regarding visceral sensitivity and multiple regression analyses were conducted to evaluate the predictive value of sex and risk factors for visceral sensitivity. Subgroups with high, intermediate, and low sensitivity were compared regarding psychological and biological characteristics.

Key Results

Men and women did not differ in sensory or pain thresholds or in IBS‐related risk factors. In multiple regression analyses, no predictor of visceral sensitivity could be identified. While sensitivity subgroups differed in sensory and pain thresholds, the proportions of men and women were comparable, and groups did not differ in IBS‐related risk factors.

Conclusions and Inferences

Despite the large sample size, we found no evidence supporting sex differences in visceral sensitivity. At least in healthy young volunteers, our findings suggest that sex, GI symptoms, anxiety, or chronic stress do not contribute to altered visceral sensitivity.
Varieties of regional integration, international trade networks and risk
Authors: Seno‐Alday Sandra
Published: June 2019

This paper explores the relationship between regional integration models and trade network structures. The paper further investigates the implications of these trade relationship configurations on risk. The exploratory study models the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations as networks: countries in each region are nodes connected by lines representing commodity trade flows. The study compares the evolution of the two regional networks over a 25‐year period (1990–2014). The results confirm that different regional integration models lead to differently structured economic relationships. The findings show that loosely coupled networks are vulnerable to the failure of a few connected nodes (concentrated vulnerability), but that tightly coupled regional networks are vulnerable to the failure of any of its nodes (random vulnerability). These unique differences in vulnerability have critical implications for managing economic risk.
Reporting results with (Un)certainty
Authors: Moore A Russell , Freeman Kathleen
Published: June 2019

Background

A degree of uncertainty occurs with every measured laboratory result due to both analytical and biological variation. The tools of Total Observed error (TEO) and dispersion based on biological variation have helped veterinary labs quantify the causes of variation that lead to measurement uncertainty (MU). International organizations recommend that the amount of MU in veterinary laboratory results be identified and communicated. The expanded measurement uncertainty (EMU), dispersion, and reporting interval adjustment have been recommended as tools to allow communication of MU to laboratory data users but are not commonly discussed in the veterinary literature.

Objective

Using the vocabulary of Total Observed error and biological variation and examples from veterinary medicine, a review of the theory and application of the EMU, dispersion, and the methods for deriving an appropriate reporting interval recommended by Hawkins and Badrick, is presented.

Conclusions

By addressing the way that MU is communicated to users of laboratory results, the laboratory enables users to better understand the potential uncertainty associated with reported results, helps to prevent over and under‐interpretation of data, and improves diagnostic accuracy and patient care.
Integrated Wheelchair-Compatible Support System for Sit-To-Stand Movements Support
Authors: Shiraishi Ryoichiro , Kawamoto Hiroaki , Sankai Yoshiyuki
Published: June 2019

This study proposes a novel integrated wheelchair-compatible support system for wheelchair users with partial or complete paralysis. This system not only provides sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit (STS) learning support for stroke and spinal cord injury patients but also enhances the independence of wheelchair users. It integrates a lower limb movement support unit with a wheelchair and supports STS movement by moving the seat up and down linearly. It also measures the ground reaction force (GRF) on both sides of the body and supports proper STS movement to allow users to improve their movements and postures. Individual experiments were conducted to evaluate the system-provided STS movement support for two patients with partial paralysis and one patient with complete paralysis. Patients with partial paralysis, both hemiplegic and quadriplegic, were able to operate the system and perform the STS movement learning with visual biofeedback. Moreover, using our system, a wheelchair user with complete paraplegia was able to perform tasks at an elevated position independently. Therefore, this system will help wheelchair users achieve the self-motor-learning of STS movement and enhance their quality of life independently.
Three Novel Symmetric Waldron–Bricard Metamorphic and Reconfigurable Mechanisms and Their Isomerization
Authors: Chai Xuheng , Dai Jian S.
Published: June 2019

This paper explores a class of metamorphic and reconfigurable linkages belonging to both Waldron's double-Bennett hybrid linkage and Bricard linkages, which include three novel symmetric Waldron–Bricard metamorphic and reconfigurable mechanisms, and further presents their three extended isomeric metamorphic linkages. The three novel Waldron–Bricard metamorphic and reconfigurable linkages are distinguished by line-symmetric, plane-symmetric, and line-plane-symmetric characteristics. The novel line-symmetric Waldron–Bricard metamorphic linkage with one Waldron motion branch and two general and three special line-symmetric Bricard motion branches is obtained by integrating two identical general Bennett loops. The novel plane-symmetric Waldron–Bricard reconfigurable linkage with two plane-symmetric motion branches is obtained by coalescing two equilateral Bennett loops. The novel line-plane-symmetric Waldron–Bricard metamorphic linkage with six motion branches is obtained by blending two identical equilateral Bennett loops, including the plane-symmetric Waldron motion branch, the line-plane-symmetric Bricard motion branch, the spherical 4R motion branch, and three special line-symmetric Bricard motion branches. With the isomerization that changes a mechanism structure but keeps all links and joints, each of the three novel Waldron–Bricard linkages results in an extended isomeric metamorphic linkage. This further evolves into the study of the three isomeric mechanisms. The study of these three novel metamorphic and reconfigurable mechanisms and their isomerization are carried out to demonstrate the characteristics of bifurcation and to reveal motion-branch transformation. Furthermore, by exploring the intersection of given motion branches and using the method of isomerization, more metamorphic and reconfigurable linkages can be discovered to usefully deal with transitions among possible submotions.
A Generalized Magneto-Thermoviscoelastic Problem of a Single-Layer Plate for Vibration Control Considering Memory-Dependent Heat Transfer and Nonlocal Effect
Authors: Xu Yeshou , Xu Zhao-Dong , Guo Ying-Qing , Dong Yaorong , Huang Xinghuai
Published: June 2019

Viscoelastic materials are a kind of representative passive vibration control materials with many applications in civil engineering for earthquake mitigation in building structures, and these materials often serve in a thermo-elastic coupling environment. In this work, a one-dimensional magneto-thermoviscoelastic problem of a single-layer viscoelastic plate is investigated with memory-dependent derivative and nonlocal effect in the context of generalized thermo-elasticity. The plate is placed in a magnetic field, and the upper surface is subjected to a thermal shock. The governing equations for the single-layer plate are formulated considering the time delay and the kernel function of the memory-dependent derivative, nonlocal effect, temperature-dependent properties, and magnetic field. The Laplace transform and its numerical inversion are employed to solve this problem. The nondimensional temperature, displacement, and stress are calculated and presented graphically. Based on the numerical results, the influence of time delay and kernel function of the memory-dependent derivative, nonlocal effect parameters, temperature-dependent properties, and magnetic field parameters on the distributions of the nondimensional temperature, displacement, and stress are discussed.
Measurements of Temperature and Emissivity Distributions on a High-Temperature Surface Using an Auxiliary Light Source Method
Authors: Fu Tairan , Xiong Yehan , Liu Jiangfan , Shi Congling
Published: June 2019

A method to simultaneously measure two-dimensional temperature and emissivity distributions on high-temperature diffuse surfaces is developed using an auxiliary light source. The high-temperature diffuse surface is irradiated from the hemispherical space with the auxiliary light source switched “on” or “off.” Two images of the effective radiation intensity are obtained in quick succession for the two states to determine the temperature and emissivity distributions. The measurement method and uncertainty models show that the effect of the unknown emissivity on the accuracy of the temperature field measurement can be eliminated. The optical pyrometer is a color charge coupled device (CCD) sensor with a quartz lamp array used as the auxiliary light source to illustrate the measurement method. An oxidized W–Ni–Fe alloy sample is heated at high temperatures of 600–1000 °C by a 700 W induction-heating device. The distributions of the effective radiation intensities from the sample surface during the “on” and “off” states of the lamp array are measured in the three color channels (R, G, and B channels) to calculate the temperature and emissivity distributions. The temperature measurement uncertainties are less than 4 °C for a temperature range of 600–900 °C. The temperature measurements are experimentally validated by the thermocouple method only with a small temperature difference. The emissivities calculated from the three color channels are very close with a range of 0.855–0.957. The relative uncertainties in the emissivities for channels R and G are less than 2.0%, while the relative uncertainty for channel B data was higher at 2.8% and 7.5% due to lower measurement signals in channel B. This analysis may provide a useful method for measuring the temperatures of high-temperature diffuse surfaces by successfully compensating for the effects of unknown or changing emissivities.
Multiscale Modeling of Turbine Engine Component Under Manufacturing Uncertainty
Authors: McKeand Austin M. , Gorguluarslan Recep M. , Brown Jeff , Choi Seung-Kyum
Published: June 2019

Efficient modeling of uncertainty introduced by the manufacturing process is critical in the design of turbine engine components. In this study, a stochastic multiscale modeling framework is developed to efficiently account for the geometric uncertainty associated with the manufacturing process to accurately predict the performance of engine components. Multiple efficient statistic tools are integrated into the proposed framework. Specifically, a semivariogram analysis procedure is proposed to quantify spatial variability of the uncertain geometric parameters based on a set of manufactured specimens. Karhunen–Loeve expansion is utilized to create a set of correlated random variables from the uncertainty data obtained by variogram analysis. A detailed finite element model of the component is created that accounts for the uncertainties quantified by these correlated random variables. A stochastic upscaling method is then developed to form a simplified model that can represent this detailed model with high accuracy under uncertainties. Specifically, a parametric model generation process is developed to represent the detailed model using Bezier curves and the uncertainties are upscaled to the parameters of this parametric representation. The results of the simulations are then validated with real experimental results. The application results show that the proposed framework effectively captures the geometric uncertainties introduced by manufacturing while providing accurate predictions under uncertainties.
Kidney stone, by near-ambient pressure XPS
Authors: Roychowdhury Tuhin , Bahr Stephan , Dietrich Paul , Meyer Michael , Thißen Andreas , Linford Matthew R.
Published: June 2019

Near-ambient pressure X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (NAP-XPS) is a less traditional form of XPS that allows samples to be analyzed at relatively high pressures, i.e., greater than 2500 Pa. With NAP-XPS, XPS can be used to probe moderately volatile liquids, biological samples, porous materials, and/or polymeric materials that outgas significantly. In this submission, we show O 1s, C 1s, and Ca 2p narrow scans and a survey NAP-XPS spectrum from a human urolith, i.e., a kidney stone, which is a biomaterial that could not be analyzed at moderate pressures by conventional approaches.
Trump clamps down on fetal tissue research
Authors: Wadman Meredith , Kaiser Jocelyn
Published: June 2019

Controversial policy could entangle funding proposals in lengthy new ethical reviews.
X-ray telescope keeps Russia's space science hopes alive
Authors: Clery Daniel
Published: June 2019

Spektr-RG, designed to study the effect of mysterious dark energy on galaxies, will be nation's only space observatory.
Cassini-Huygens’ exploration of the Saturn system: 13 years of discovery
Authors: Spilker Linda
Published: June 2019

Cassini's last look at Saturn's rings

During the final stages of the Cassini mission, the spacecraft flew between the planet and its rings, providing a new view on this spectacular system (see the Perspective by Ida). Setting the scene, Spilker reviews the numerous discoveries made using Cassini during the 13 years it spent orbiting Saturn. Iess
et al.
measured the gravitational pull on Cassini, separating the contributions from the planet and the rings. This allowed them to determine the interior structure of Saturn and the mass of its rings. Buratti
et al.
present observations of five small moons located in and around the rings. The moons each have distinctive shapes and compositions, owing to accretion of ring material. Tiscareno
et al.
observed the rings directly at close range, finding complex features sculpted by the gravitational interactions between moons and ring particles. Together, these results show that Saturn's rings are substantially younger than the planet itself and constrain models of their origin.

Science
, this issue p.
1046
, p.
eaat2965
, p.
eaat2349
, p.
eaau1017
; see also p.
1028
Metastable ferroelectricity in optically strained SrTiO
3
Authors: Nova T. F. , Disa A. S. , Fechner M. , Cavalleri A.
Published: June 2019

Driving strontium titanate ferroelectric

Hidden phases are metastable collective states of matter that are typically not accessible on equilibrium phase diagrams. Nova
et al.
used infrared pulses to excite higher-frequency lattice modes that drive the crystal into a metastable ferroelectric phase, a phase that can persist for many hours. X. Li
et al.
used terahertz fields to drive the soft mode that moves the ions in the crystal into the positions they occupy in the new phase. The ferroelectric phase in this case was transient, lasting on the order of 10 picoseconds. Because these hidden phases can host exotic properties in otherwise conventional materials, the accessibility to and control of such hidden phases may broaden potential functionality and applications.

Science
, this issue p.
1075
, p.
1079
A microbial factory for defensive kahalalides in a tripartite marine symbiosis
Authors: Zan Jindong , Li Zhiyuan , Tianero Ma. Diarey , Davis Jeanette , Hill Russell T. , Donia Mohamed S.
Published: June 2019

A little help from a friend

The Hawaiian sea slug
Elysia rufescens
grazes on an alga called
Bryopsis
sp. The alga defends itself from predators using peptide toxins decorated with fatty acids, called kahalalides. Zan
et al.
wondered if a third party was involved in toxin production (see the Perspective by Mascuch and Kubanek). Within the alga, a species of bacterium with a very reduced genome was discovered to be a factory for the nonribosomal assembly of a family of kahalalides. The authors elucidated the pathways for generating this chemical diversity. It seems that the sea slug not only tolerates the toxins but, to protect itself from being eaten by fish, grazes on the alga to accumulate kahalalide.

Science
, this issue p.
eaaw6732
; see also p.
1034
Phase-only transmissive spatial light modulator based on tunable dielectric metasurface
Authors: Li Shi-Qiang , Xu Xuewu , Maruthiyodan Veetil Rasna , Valuckas Vytautas , Paniagua-Domínguez Ramón , Kuznetsov Arseniy I.
Published: June 2019

Dynamic metasurfaces

Nanostructured metasurfaces can function as many passive optical elements. Now, S.-Q. Li
et al.
demonstrate that metasurfaces can be combined with liquid crystals to provide active control over light beams. With a view toward developing near-eye augmented reality display technology, they combined a dielectric metasurface with a liquid crystal layer to produce a tiny spatial light modulator. The results present a path for the development of dynamic metasurfaces as a platform for miniaturized optical technology with advanced time-dependent functionality.

Science
, this issue p.
1087
Comment on “Global pattern of nest predation is disrupted by climate change in shorebirds”
Authors: Bulla Martin , Reneerkens Jeroen , Weiser Emily L. , Sokolov Aleksandr , Taylor Audrey R. , Sittler Benoît , McCaffery Brian J. , Ruthrauff Dan R. , Catlin Daniel H. , Payer David C. , Ward David H. , Solovyeva Diana V. , Santos Eduardo S. A. , Rakhimberdiev Eldar , Nol Erica , Kwon Eunbi , Brown Glen S. , Hevia Glenda D. , Gates H. River , Johnson James A. , van Gils Jan A. , Hansen Jannik , Lamarre Jean-François , Rausch Jennie , Conklin Jesse R. , Liebezeit Joe , Bêty Joël , Lang Johannes , Alves José A. , Fernández-Elipe Juan , Exo Klaus-Michael , Bollache Loïc , Bertellotti Marcelo , Giroux Marie-Andrée , van de Pol Martijn , Johnson Matthew , Boldenow Megan L. , Valcu Mihai , Soloviev Mikhail , Sokolova Natalya , Senner Nathan R. , Lecomte Nicolas , Meyer Nicolas , Schmidt Niels Martin , Gilg Olivier , Smith Paul A. , Machín Paula , McGuire Rebecca L. , Cerboncini Ricardo A. S. , Ottvall Richard , van Bemmelen Rob S. A. , Swift Rose J. , Saalfeld Sarah T. , Jamieson Sarah E. , Brown Stephen , Piersma Theunis , Albrecht Tomas , D’Amico Verónica , Lanctot Richard B. , Kempenaers Bart
Published: June 2019

Kubelka
et al
. (Reports, 9 November 2018, p. 680) claim that climate change has disrupted patterns of nest predation in shorebirds. They report that predation rates have increased since the 1950s, especially in the Arctic. We describe methodological problems with their analyses and argue that there is no solid statistical support for their claims.
Long-duration hippocampal sharp wave ripples improve memory
Authors: Fernández-Ruiz Antonio , Oliva Azahara , Fermino de Oliveira Eliezyer , Rocha-Almeida Florbela , Tingley David , Buzsáki György
Published: June 2019

Longer ripples make better memories

Sharp wave ripples in the hippocampus are thought to play a role in memory formation and action planning. Fernández-Ruiz
et al.
used multisite electrophysiological recordings combined with optogenetic activation of hippocampal pyramidal neurons in rats performing learning tasks. Learning and correct recall in spatial memory tasks were associated with extended sharp wave ripples. Artificially prolonging these ripples improved working memory performance, whereas aborting the late part of ripples decreased performance.

Science
, this issue p.
1082
Antibiotic-Resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
Is Susceptible to the Novel Iron-Sequestering Anti-infective DIBI
In Vitro
and in Experimental Pneumonia in Mice
Authors: Parquet Maria del Carmen , Savage Kimberley A. , Allan David S. , Ang M. Trisha C. , Chen Wangxue , Logan Susan M. , Holbein Bruce E.
Published: June 2019

Acinetobacter baumannii
is a major cause of nosocomial infections especially hospital-acquired pneumonia. This bacterium readily acquires antibiotic resistance traits and therefore, new treatment alternatives are urgently needed. The virulence of
A. baumannii
linked to iron acquisition suggests a potential for new anti-infectives that target its iron acquisition. DIBI, a 3-hydroxypyridin-4-one chelator, is a purpose-designed, iron-sequestering antimicrobial that has shown promise for treating microbial infection.
HIV Diversity and Genetic Compartmentalization in Blood and Testes during Suppressive Antiretroviral Therapy
Authors: Miller Rachel L. , Ponte Rosalie , Jones Bradley R. , Kinloch Natalie N. , Omondi Fredrick H. , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali , Dupuy Franck P. , Fromentin Remi , Brassard Pierre , Mehraj Vikram , Chomont Nicolas , Poon Art F. Y. , Joy Jeffrey B. , Brumme Zabrina L. , Routy Jean-Pierre
Published: June 2019

Two key questions in HIV reservoir biology are whether immune-privileged tissues, such as the testes, harbor distinctive proviral populations during suppressive therapy and, if so, by what mechanism. While our results indicated that blood-testis HIV genetic compartmentalization was reasonably common (60%), it was always attributable to differential frequencies of identical HIV sequences between sites. No blood-tissue data set retained evidence of compartmentalization when only unique HIV sequences per site were considered; moreover, HIV immune escape mutation burdens were highly concordant between sites. We conclude that the principal mechanism by which blood and testis reservoirs differ is not via seeding of divergent HIV sequences therein but, rather, via differential clonal expansion of latently infected cells. Thus, while viral diversity and escape-related barriers to HIV eradication are of a broadly similar magnitude across the blood and testes, clonal expansion represents a challenge. The results support individualized analysis of within-host reservoir diversity to inform curative approaches.
Variation in the management of Kawasaki disease
Authors: Dionne Audrey , Burgner David , De Ferranti Sarah , Singh-Grewal Davinder , Newburger Jane , Dahdah Nagib
Published: June 2019

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) reduces coronary aneurysms in patients with Kawasaki disease (KD), but additional management options remain challenging, with no generalisable evidence-based recommendations. We performed a survey of 724 physicians from 73 countries to assess variation in practice. IVIG was the preferred initial treatment by 659 (91%) of respondents. Criteria for adjunctive primary treatment varied considerably and definitions of IVIG resistance varied markedly by geographical continent, Human Development Index tiers and medical specialty. A second dose of IVIG was used most often for patients with coronary aneurysm non-responsive to initial treatment (572, 79%), but corticosteroids (379, 52%) and tumour necrosis factor alpha inhibitors (208, 29%) were also frequently used. Our findings highlight the need for international collaborative efforts to optimise management of patients with KD worldwide.
Smoking and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk in young men: the Korean Life Course Health Study
Authors: Jee Yongho , Jung Keum Ji , Lee Sunmi , Back Joung Hwan , Jee Sun Ha , Cho Sung-il
Published: June 2019

Objective

To examine the effect of smoking on risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) in Korean young men and to examine whether serum total cholesterol levels could modify the effect of smoking on ASCVD.

Design

A prospective cohort study within a national insurance system.

Setting

Health screenings provided by national insurance in 1992 and 1994.

Participants

A total of 118 531 young men between 20 and 29 years of age and were followed up for an average of 23 years.

Outcome measure

To assess the independent effects of smoking on the risk of ischaemic heart disease (IHD), stroke and ASCVD, Cox proportional hazards regression models were used, controlling for age, hypertension, diabetes, hypercholesterolaemia and alcohol drinking.

Results

The total number of current smokers was 78 455 (66.2%), and 94 113 (79.7%) of the sample recorded a total cholesterol level <200 mg/dL measured at baseline. Between 1993 and 2015, 2786 cases of IHD (53/100 000 person year), 2368 cases of stroke (45.4/100 000 person year) and 6368 ASCVD (122.7/100 000 person year) occurred. The risk of IHD, stroke and total ASCVD events was found to increase for current smokers, with a HR with 95% CI of 1.5 (95% CI 1.3 to 1.6), 1.4 (95% CI 1.2 to 1.6) and 1.4 (95% CI 1.3 to 1.5), respectively. Furthermore, the risks above were also found throughout the range of serum levels of cholesterol.

Conclusions

Smoking among Korean young adult men was independently associated with increased risk of IHD, stroke and ASCVD. The concentration of cholesterol in Korean men did not modify the effect of smoking on ASCVD.
Three contaminated sites in southern Italy. The Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes cohort: protocol for a longitudinal birth cohort study
Authors: Ruggieri Silvia , Drago Gaspare , Colombo Paolo , Alesci Alessio , Augello Pasquale , Bisbano Alessandro , Bucolo Antonino , Dattoli Patrizia , De Sole Raffaella , La Runa Valentina , Lopez Angela , Lo Presti Lucia , Magliarditi Bruno , Paravati Francesco , Pirillo Giuseppe , Ziino Colanino Antonino , Cibella Fabio
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Exposure to environmental contaminants during pregnancy is one of the determinants of child’s future health outcomes. The effect of environmental pollution on pregnant women living in heavily polluted areas is of special interest and, in this context, the Neonatal Environment and Health Outcomes (NEHO) cohort will focus on the investigation of (1) toxicants transferred from the environment to the mother and from the mother to the developing fetus and (2) the influence of toxicants on pregnancy outcomes, fetal development and health status during infancy. Because the human placenta is positioned at the interface between the maternal/external environment and the embryo, it can be considered a highly informative matrix regarding many key pregnancy events that can shape infant’s future health.

Methods and analysis

The NEHO cohort will enrol an estimated total of 800 pregnant women in three selected National Priority Contaminated Sites in southern Italy. Epidemiological data, concerning maternal health status, lifestyle and pregnancy, are obtained through questionnaires provided to the mother starting from the last 2 months of pregnancy. At delivery, maternal blood, umbilical cord blood and placenta tissue are collected to assess contaminant levels and to clarify how toxicants interact with the placental domain. Furthermore, placental transcriptome is studied in order to explore the interferences of toxicants on the role of the placenta in maternal/fetal interplay. Regular follow-up is planned at 6, 12 and 24 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by all the Ethics Committees of the three National Priority Contaminated Sites involved: the Ethics Committee of the University Hospitals of Messina (18 September 2017, n. 9/2017); the Ethics Committee ‘Catania 2’ (11 July 2017, n. 38/2017/CECT2); the Ethics Committee of the Region of Calabria (20 July 2017, n. 173). Findings will be disseminated in the scientific community and on a regional basis for appropriate policy actions.
ANCD thrombectomy device: in vitro evaluation
Authors: Sanchez Sonia , Cortiñas Ignacio , Villanova Helena , Rios Anna , Galve Iñaki , Andersson Tommy , Nogueira Raul , Jovin Tudor , Ribo Marc
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Endovascular treatment of stroke, although highly effective, may fail to reach complete recanalization in around 20% of cases. The Advanced Thrombectomy System (ANCD) is a novel stroke thrombectomy device designed to reduce clot fragmentation and facilitate retrieval by inducing local flow arrest and allowing distal aspiration in combination with a stent retriever. We aimed to assess the preclinical efficacy of ANCD.

Methods

Soft red blood cell (RBC)-rich (n=20/group) and sticky fibrin-rich (n=30/group) clots were used to create middle cerebral artery (MCA) occlusions in two vascular phantoms. Three different treatment strategies were tested: (1) balloon guide catheter + Solitaire (BGC+SR); (2) distal access catheter + SR (DAC+SR); and (3) ANCD+SR, until complete recanalization was achieved or to a maximum of three passes. The recanalization rate was determined after each pass.

Results

After one pass, ANCD+SR resulted in an increased recanalization rate (94%) for all clots together compared with BGC+SR (66%; p<0.01) or DAC+SR (80%; p=0.04). After the final pass the recanalization rate increased in all three groups but remained higher with ANCD+SR (100%) than with BGC+SR (74%; p<0.01) or DAC+SR (90%; p=0.02). The mean number of passes was lower with ANCD+SR (1.06) than with BGC+SR (1.46) or DAC+SR (1.25) (p=0.01). A logistic regression model adjusted for treatment arm, clot type, and model used showed that both RBC-rich clots (OR 8.1, 95% CI 1.6 to 13.5) and ANCD+SR (OR 3.9, 95% CI 1.01 to 15.8) were independent predictors of first-pass recanalization.

Conclusion

In in vitro three-dimensional models replicating MCA-M1 occlusion, ANCD+SR showed significantly better recanalization rates in fewer passes than other commonly used combinations of devices.
Long-term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter and liver enzymes in adults: a cross-sectional study in Taiwan
Authors: Zhang Zilong , Guo Cui , Chang Ly-yun , Bo Yacong , Lin Changqing , Tam Tony , Hoek Gerard , Wong Martin CS , Chan Ta-Chien , Lau Alexis KH , Lao Xiang Qian
Published: June 2019

Objectives

Animal experiments indicate that exposure to particulate matter (PM) can induce hepatotoxic effects but epidemiological evidence is scarce. We aimed to investigate the associations between long-term exposure to PM air pollution and liver enzymes, which are biomarkers widely used for liver function assessment.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed among 351 852 adult participants (mean age: 40.1 years) who participated in a standard medical screening programme in Taiwan. Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT) levels were measured. A satellite-based spatio-temporal model was used to estimate the concentrations of ambient fine particles (PM with an aerodynamic diameter ≤2.5 µm, PM2.5) at each participant’s address. Linear and logistic regression models were used to investigate the associations between PM2.5 and the liver enzymes with adjustment for a wide range of potential confounders.

Results

After adjustment for confounders, every 10 µg/m3 increment in 2-year average PM2.5 concentration was associated with 0.02%(95% CI: −0.04% to 0.08%), 0.61% (95% CI: 0.51% to 0.70%) and 1.60% (95% CI: 1.50% to 1.70%) increases in AST, ALT and GGT levels, respectively. Consistently, the odds ratios of having elevated liver enzymes (>40 IU/L) per 10 µg/m3 PM2.5 increment were 1.06 (95% CI: 1.04 to 1.09), 1.09 (95% CI: 1.07 to 1.10) and 1.09 (95% CI: 1.07 to 1.11) for AST, ALT and GGT, respectively.

Conclusions

Long-term exposure to PM2.5 was associated with increased levels of liver enzymes, especially ALT and GGT. More studies are needed to confirm our findings and to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.