bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced safety and immunogenicity of a pneumococcal surface antigen A mutant whole‐cell inactivated pneumococcal vaccine
Authors: David Shannon C , Laan Zoe , Minhas Vikrant , Chen Austen Y , Davies Justin , Hirst Timothy R , McColl Shaun R , Alsharifi Mohammed , Paton James C
Published: May 2019

Existing capsular polysaccharide‐based vaccines against pneumococcal disease are highly effective against vaccine‐included serotypes, but they are unable to combat serotype replacement. We have developed a novel pneumococcal vaccine that confers serotype‐independent protection, and could therefore constitute a “universal” vaccine formulation. This preparation is comprised of whole un‐encapsulated pneumococci inactivated with gamma irradiation (γ‐PN), and we have previously reported induction of cross‐reactive immunity after nonadjuvanted intranasal vaccination. To further enhance vaccine immunogenicity and safety, we modified the pneumococcal vaccine strain to induce a stressed state during growth. Specifically, the substrate binding component of the psaBCA operon for manganese import was mutated to create a pneumococcal surface antigen A (psaA) defective vaccine strain. psaA mutation severely attenuated the growth of the vaccine strain in vitro without negatively affecting pneumococcal morphology, thereby enhancing vaccine safety. In addition, antibodies raised against vaccine preparations based on the modified strain [γ‐PN(ΔPsaA)] showed more diversified reactivity to wild‐type pneumococcal challenge strains compared to those induced by the original formulation. The modified vaccine also induced comparable protective TH17 responses in the lung, and conferred greater protection against lethal heterologous pneumococcal challenge. Overall, the current study demonstrates successful refinement of a serotype‐independent pneumococcal vaccine candidate to enhance safety and immunogenicity.
Tunable white light and energy transfer of Eu2+‐Tb3+‐Eu3+ tri‐activated glasses synthesized in air
Authors: Guo Hai , Teng Liming , Wei Rongfei
Published: May 2019

An ever increasing demand for white light‐emitting diodes (W‐LEDs) results in the gradual growth of research on functionalized luminescent glasses. In this paper, single‐composition tunable white‐emitting Eu2+‐Tb3+‐Eu3+ tri‐activated glasses were synthesized by melt quenching method without additional reducing atmosphere. The coexistence of Eu2+ and Eu3+ was confirmed by ultraviolet‐visible transmission spectra, photoluminescent spectra, fluorescence decay curves, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Tb3+ can act as bridge to connect Eu2+‐Eu3+ luminescent centers by energy transfer. Tone‐tunable white light can be achieved by coupling the emission centered at 412, 541, and 612 nm contributed from Eu2+, Tb3+, and Eu3+, respectively. By adjusting the relative content of Eu2+/Tb3+/Eu3+, ideal chromaticity coordinates of (0.33, 0.33) can be achieved under excitation of ultraviolet light. High thermal stability and tiny chromaticity shift were exhibited in samples. These results suggest that Eu2+‐Tb3+‐Eu3+ tri‐activated glasses have great potential application in ultraviolet‐driven W‐LEDs.
Desperate Journeys
Authors: Adams Jeff
Published: May 2019

At a time of endemic xenophobia some artists have attempted to resist this trend by depicting its damaging consequences, revealing the inequalities that fuel its disfigurement of human relations and result in mass human displacement. Paul Dash's recent paintings of refugees attempting dangerous and degrading sea crossings are the main subject of this article, and these works are discussed in the context of his negative educational experiences as a child, and his salvation through painting in the sanctuary of his school's art room. This school experience and the trajectory of his artistic career are contextualised by the current marginalisation of the arts in the curriculum and the increasing scarcity of critical and creative approaches to education.
How does spatial resolution affect model performance? A case for ensemble approaches for marine benthic mesophotic communities
Authors: Turner Joseph A. , Babcock Russell C. , Kendrick Gary A. , Hovey Renae K.
Published: May 2019

Aim

To investigate how changing grid size can alter model predictions of the distribution of mesophotic taxa and how it affects different modelling methods.

Location

Ningaloo Marine Park, Western Australia.

Taxon

Benthic mesophotic taxa: corals, macroalgae and sponges.

Methods

We determined the distributions of the major benthic taxonomic groups: corals, macroalgae and sponges, using a number of modelling techniques and an ensemble using the ‘sdm’ R package. A range of grid sizes were used (10, 50, 100 and 250 m) to identify how model predictions were altered. Models were evaluated using the area under the curve of a receiver operator characteristic plot (AUC) and the true skill statistic (TSS) using a spatially independent dataset.

Results

Grid size had a large effect on model performance across the taxonomic groups. Model outputs were compared to null surfaces and 88.8% of models performed significantly better than null. Distribution of corals was best predicted using the finest grid size (10 m) regardless of modelling method, although a model ensemble produced the best results (AUC = 0.80, TSS = 0.52). Macroalgae and sponges were better predicted at coaster grids sizes (250 m). Again, ensembles performed well for both macroalgae (AUC = 0.83, TSS = 0.63) and sponges (AUC = 0.88, TSS = 0.66). Model ensembles maintained high accuracy across grid sizes and were consistently the best, or second‐best, performing method.

Main conclusions

This study has shown how grid size should be considered when producing distribution models. Identifying the most relevant grid size and being aware of the influence it may have will provide more accurate predictions of the distributions of taxa. Ensemble methods maintained good performance across scenarios and thus provide a useful tool for conservation and management especially where single modelling methods showed high levels of variability.
Initial experience with transcatheter pacemaker implantation for adults with congenital heart disease
Authors: Russell Matthew R , Galloti Roberto , Moore Jeremy P
Published: May 2019

Background

Transvenous pacemaker systems have significant advantages over epicardial systems in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). Frequently though, unique anatomic challenges preclude the use of transvenous leads. Although originally developed for patient with normal anatomy, leadless pacemaker systems have enormous potential in the CHD population.

Objective

To describe an initial experience with leadless pacemaker implantation in adult patients with CHD who were not the candidates for traditional transvenous pacing.

Methods

This was a retrospective review of the experience with Micra Transcatheter Pacing System implantation in adult patients with CHD. Patient demographics, clinical history, pacing indications, procedural details, clinical outcomes, and pacing characteristics at follow‐up are reported.

Results

Three patients with intracardiac shunts or tricuspid valve disorders who underwent leadless pacemaker placement are described. Pacing indications included sinus node dysfunction in two and permanent atrial fibrillation with atrioventricular (AV) block in one. There were no procedural or thromboembolic complications over the follow‐up period. Pacing characteristics were acceptable and ventricular pacing burden remained low except for the single patient with AV block.

Conclusions

Leadless pacemaker systems are a viable pacing option for appropriately selected adult patients with CHD when transvenous pacing is not a suitable option.
Clinical feasibility of pulmonary vein orifice pacing for the prediction of phrenic nerve injury during cryoballoon ablation of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Sano Makoto , Urushida Tsuyoshi , Matsukura Gaku , Sakakibara Tomoaki , Suwa Kenichiro , Naruse Yoshihisa , Ohtani Hayato , Saotome Masao , Maekawa Yuichiro
Published: May 2019

Introduction

Phrenic nerve (PN) injury is a well‐known complication of cryoballoon ablation (CBA) for pulmonary vein (PV) isolation in patients with atrial fibrillation. However, it is still insufficient to practically predict phrenic nerve injury (PNI) before freezing. We hypothesized that phrenic nerve capture (PNC) with phrenic nerve orifice pacing (PVOP) might be a surrogate sign of the close proximity of the PN, and that might predict PNI and changes in the compound motor action potential (CMAP) amplitude.

Methods

Seventy patients (60 ± 12 years, male 80%, paroxysmal 56%) underwent PVOP with a 20‐electrode ring catheter before the CBA. The clinical outcome was the occurrence of transient and persistent PNI. In addition, the PV position and pacing threshold during PNC with PVOP, and changes in the CMAP amplitude were recorded. We compared these measurements between patients with and without PNC (PNC/non‐PNC group) with PVOP.

Results

PNC with PVOP occurred in 39 (56%) patients and was localized only to the right superior PV. Transient PNI occurred in seven (10%) patients and permanent in none. The CMAP amplitude decreased significantly more in the PNC group (PNC 33% vs non‐PNC 16%, P = .027). PNC group had a higher risk of the composite outcome of transient PNI or ≥30% decrease in the CMAP amplitude (PNC 54% vs non‐PNC 13%; P < .001).

Conclusions

This PVOP technique could be feasible and contribute to predicting transient PNI and CMAP amplitude reductions before cryoapplications. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the additional efficacy of PVOP over CMAP monitoring alone.
Assessing phenotypic and polygenic models of ADHD to identify mechanisms of risk for longitudinal trajectories of externalizing behaviors
Authors: Li James J.
Published: May 2019

Background

Children with ADHD frequently engage in higher rates of externalizing behaviors in adulthood relative to children without. However, externalizing behaviors vary across development. Little is known about how this risk unfolds across development. Phenotypic and polygenic models of childhood ADHD were used to predict individual differences in adult externalizing trajectories. Supportive parenting, school connectedness, and peer closeness were then examined as causal mechanisms.

Methods

Data were from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (N = 7,674). Externalizing behavior was measured using data from age 18 to 32 and modeled using latent class growth analysis. Child ADHD was measured using retrospective self‐report (phenotypic model) and genome‐wide polygenic risk scores (polygenic model). Multiple mediation models examined the direct and indirect effects of the phenotypic and polygenic models (separately) on externalizing trajectories through the effects of adolescent supportive parenting, school connectedness, and peer closeness.

Results

Phenotypic and polygenic models of ADHD were associated with being in the High Decreasing (3.2% of sample) and Moderate (16.1%) adult externalizing trajectories, but not the severe Low Increasing trajectory (2.6%), relative to the Normal trajectory (78.2%). Associations between both models of ADHD on the High Decreasing and Moderate trajectories were partially mediated through the effects of school connectedness, but not supportive parenting or peer closeness.

Conclusions

Findings shed light on how childhood ADHD affects downstream psychosocial processes that then predict specific externalizing outcomes in adulthood. They also reinforce the importance of fostering a strong school environment for adolescents with (and without) ADHD, as this context plays a critical role in shaping the development of externalizing behaviors in adulthood.
Salmon cells SHK‐1 internalize infectious pancreatic necrosis virus by macropinocytosis
Authors: Levicán‐Asenjo Jorge , Soto‐Rifo Ricardo , Aguayo Francisco , Gaggero Aldo , Leon Oscar
Published: May 2019

We have previously shown that infectious pancreatic necrosis virus (IPNV) enters the embryo cell line CHSE‐214 by macropinocytosis. In this study, we have extended our investigation into SHK‐1 cells, a macrophage‐like cell line derived from the head kidney of Atlantic salmon, the most economically important host of IPNV. We show that IPNV infection stimulated fluid uptake in SHK‐1 cells above the constitutive macropinocytosis level. In addition, upon infection of SHK‐1 cells, IPNV produced several changes in actin dynamics, such as protrusions and ruffles, which are important features of macropinocytosis. We also observed that the Na+/H+ pump inhibitor EIPA blocked IPNV infection. On the other hand, IPNV entry was independent of clathrin, a possibility that could not be ruled out in CHSE 214 cells. In order to determine the possible role of accessory factors on the macropinocytic process, we tested several inhibitors that affect components of transduction pathways. While pharmacological intervention of PKI3, PAK‐1 and Rac1 did not affect IPNV infection, inhibition of Ras and Rho GTPases as well as Cdc42 resulted in a partial decrease in IPNV infection. Further studies will be required to determine the signalling pathway involved in the macropinocytosis‐mediated entry of IPNV into its target cells.
Polyostotic cortical hyperostosis in an 8‐week‐old cat with a 3‐year follow‐up
Authors: Allevi G. , Serafini F.
Published: May 2019

A 2 month‐old female cat, mixed breed, was referred for difficulty moving and severe enlargement of the mandible and limbs. Polyostotic cortical hyperostosis was diagnosed based on diagnostic imaging and histopathological changes of the mandible and limbs. Marked cortical bone thickening was detected on radiographs and CT scan images. The diaphyses of both radii and ulnae, together with the mandibular rami and bodies, were most severely affected. The many similarities shared with the human condition, Caffey's disease, are discussed.
Drivers of plant richness patterns of Mediterranean riparian forests at local and regional scales have bottom‐up and top‐down effects
Authors: Leo María , Calleja Juan A. , Lara Francisco , Garilleti Ricardo , Medina Nagore G.
Published: May 2019

Questions

It has been long recognized that community species richness depends on factors operating at different spatial scales. Most frequently, across‐scale studies have focused on the impact of regional factors on local richness (top‐down effects) while few have analyzed the importance of local factors on regional richness (bottom‐up) and even fewer have tried to integrate effects on both directions. Our objectives were to reveal the key factors shaping plant species richness of Mediterranean riparian forests and to test whether empirical models based on top‐down or bottom‐up relationships are able to explain the spatial scaling of richness.

Location

Southern half of Spain, SW Europe.

Methods

We designed two structural equation models integrating relationships between biotic and abiotic variables at two spatial scales, local and regional. Our models incorporated observed richness of 689 riparian woody communities.

Results

Local‐scale richness depended mostly on local climate, lithology and sediment textures. Regional species richness was driven by climate, lithology and water regime. In the top‐down model, regional to local effects were driven mostly by the influence of regional richness on local richness. However, we also detected several bottom‐up effects linking local climate, abiotic habitat and vegetation structure with the regional richness. In the bottom‐up model, results were very similar, adding an effect of regional climate on local richness.

Conclusions

Local, regional and across‐scales factors are crucial for understanding species richness of Mediterranean riparian forests. Some factors are inherent to riparian habitats whereas others are already known as relevant for upland habitats. We provide support for the top‐down models relying on the concepts of species pool and environmental filtering. However, we also stress that local‐scale processes influence regional species richness. Bottom‐up effects should not be underestimated when studying the spatial scaling of biodiversity.
Geo‐sociocultural influences on empathy
Authors: Kelly James , Easton Graham
Published: May 2019

Kelly and Easton reflect upon Ponnamperuma et al.'s investigation of the potential for regional variation in reports of empathy change during medical training.
Autologous Transplantation of Press‐fit Bone Cylinders in the Treatment of Pelvic Nonunion
Authors: Herath Steven C , Braun Benedikt J , Rollmann Mika F , Mörsdorf Philipp , Holstein Jörg H , Pohlemann Tim
Published: May 2019

The present study describes method for autologous bone transplantation to an area of nonunion at the pelvic ring in a way that ensures the best possible bone‐to‐bone interface (“press‐fit”) and provides optimal preconditions for the ingrowth of the bone graft. We modified a technique that has been used to transplant press‐fit bone‐baseplate‐cartilage cylinders for the repair of joint cartilage defects. The technique allows for precise harvesting of bone cylinders with a diamond‐coated and fluid‐cooled instrument. At the site where the graft shall be inserted, a cylindrical hole is created with a corresponding hollow diamond‐coated trephine. This ensures an optimal press‐fit implantation of the graft. The new surgical technique has been applied in four patients with nonunion of the pelvic ring. No intraoperative or postoperative complications occurred. In three patients, the procedure led to a reduction of pain and a higher level of mobility as well as a timely radiographic union (imaging not available for another patient). Our technique offers a valuable new treatment option for pelvic nonunion. The current article serves as a proof of concept. Future comparative studies will have to determine its value in detail.
Premature battery depletion due to compromised low‐voltage capacitor in a family of defibrillators
Authors: Montgomery Jay A. , Sensing Janice Y. , Saunders Sandra D. , Clair Walter K. , Abraham Robert L. , Kanagasundram Arvindh N. , Ellis Christopher R. , Crossley George H. , Shoemaker Moore Benjamin , Saavedra Pablo
Published: May 2019

Background

Boston Scientific (Marlborough, MA, USA) implantable cardioverter‐defibrillators (ICDs) and cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillators (CRT‐Ds) manufactured between 2008 and 2014 are potentially subject to premature battery depletion through a low‐voltage capacitor malfunction occurring as a result of hydrogen buildup within the device. Although some of these devices are currently under advisory, other devices manufactured during this timeframe carry a lower risk of the same malfunction. These same devices are known to have superior longevity in general, and the overall mean lifespan of the devices remains long.

Methods

All patients implanted or followed at our two centers who experienced premature battery depletion and had a Boston Scientific ICD or CRT‐D potentially at risk for low‐voltage capacitor malfunction were studied retrospectively.

Results

Nineteen out of 838 patients (2.3%) with devices potentially at risk have had premature battery depletion: 5.7% of those under advisory and 1.1% of those not under advisory. None of our patients had compromised therapy, and all had >27 days of projected battery longevity remaining.

Conclusions

Undetected premature battery depletion in this population of ICDs has the potential to expose a patient to an interval of time where the device is unable to provide therapy. However, with enrollment in remote monitoring, regular follow‐up, and attention to audible alerts, the risk of therapy loss due to low‐voltage state can be effectively mitigated. For these reasons, prophylactic generator replacement is not recommended.
Influence of Clinical, Psychological, and Psychophysical Variables on Long‐term Treatment Outcomes in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Evidence From a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Fernández‐de‐las‐Peñas César , de‐la‐Llave‐Rincón Ana I. , Cescon Corrado , Barbero Marco , Arias‐Buría José L. , Falla Deborah
Published: May 2019

Objective

To assess the influence of clinical, psychological, and psychophysical variables on long‐term clinical outcomes after the application of either physical therapy or surgery in women presenting with carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS).

Methods

A secondary analysis of a randomized trial investigating the efficacy of manual therapy including desensitization maneuvers of the central nervous system against surgery in 120 women with CTS was performed. Clinical outcomes including pain intensity, function, or symptom severity were assessed at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention. Participants completed at baseline several clinical (pain intensity, function, and symptom severity), psychological (depression), and psychophysical (pressure pain thresholds and pain extent) variables, which were included as predictors. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to assess the relationship between baseline variables and clinical outcomes at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention.

Results

The regression models indicated that higher scores of each clinical outcome (ie, intensity of pain or symptom severity) at baseline predicted better outcomes at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention (from 15% to 65% of variance) in both groups. Lower pressure pain thresholds over the carpal tunnel at baseline predicted poorer clinical outcomes at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention (from 5% to 20% of variance) in the physical therapy group, whereas higher depressive symptoms at baseline contributed to poorer outcomes at 6 and 12 months post‐intervention (from 5% to 15% of the variance) within the surgery group.

Conclusion

This study found that baseline localized pressure pain sensitivity and depression were predictive of long‐term clinical outcomes in women with CTS following physical therapy or surgery, respectively.
Trust and Risk Perception: A Critical Review of the Literature
Authors: Siegrist Michael
Published: May 2019

Many studies in the field of risk perception and acceptance of hazards include trust as an explanatory variable. Despite this, the importance of trust has often been questioned. The relevant issue is not only whether trust is crucial but also the form of trust that people rely on in a given situation. In this review, I discuss various trust models and the relationship between trust and affect heuristics. I conclude that the importance of trust varies by hazard and respondent group. Most of the studies use surveys that provide limited information about causality. Future research should focus more on experiments that test whether trust is a consequence of people's attitudes or influences their attitudes toward a technology. Furthermore, there is a need for a better understanding about the factors that determine which heuristics people rely on when evaluating hazards.
The effect of gender on survival for hemodialysis patients: Why don't women live longer than men?
Authors: Vongsanim Surachet , Davenport Andrew
Published: May 2019

Women in the general population have a survival advantage over men, but this advantage is not sustained in end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD) patients treated by hemodialysis. To understand why gender may affect survival we need to understand confounders which may affect dialysis practices. The current paradigm is to prescribe hemodialysis to achieve a target dialyzer urea clearance adjusted to total body water volume (Kt/Vurea). Estimated glomerular filtration calculated from serum creatinine is often used to determine when patients start dialysis; as creatinine generation rates are lower in women, this may potentially result in a lead time bias with male patients starting dialysis earlier than females. When hemodialysis dose is scaled to total body water (Kt/Vurea) women receive shorter dialysis session times. Scaling dialysis for body surface area may be more appropriate since urea generation (a surrogate for uremic toxin production) depends upon resting energy expenditure (ie, cellular metabolism) which reflects internal organ sizes. Resting energy expenditure is proportionally greater for smaller people. Women are generally smaller than men and as such have smaller sized internal organs. However, when comparing individuals, then internal organ size is best adjusted for using body surface area, not body water. The shorter, resultant dialysis session also results in lower middle molecule clearances, increases fluid removal rates and the risk of intra‐dialytic hypotension; the latter potentially results in earlier loss of residual renal function. Observational studies report that the association between survival and dialyzer Kt/Vurea is improved after adjustment for body surface area, or energy expenditure. These studies also demonstrated that the conventional prescription of hemodialysis based on current Kt/Vurea targets leads to less treatment delivered to women. These multiple consequences of the generally smaller size of women compared with men may account for the unexpectedly higher relative mortality for women. As such, prospective studies investigating alternative scaling parameters are required to confirm that increasing dialysis treatments for women improves survival.
Concurrent training performed with and without repetitions to failure in older men: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Teodoro Juliana L. , da Silva Larissa X. Neves , Fritsch Carolina G. , Baroni Bruno M. , Grazioli Rafael , Boeno Francesco P. , Lopez Pedro , Gentil Paulo , Bottaro Martim , Pinto Ronei S. , Izquierdo Mikel , Cadore Eduardo L.
Published: May 2019

This study compared the effects of 20 weeks of concurrent training with and without repetitions to failure on neuromuscular and functional adaptations in older men.

Methods

Thirty‐six older men (67.1 ± 5.1 years) were randomized into three groups: one performing repetitions to failure (RFG, n = 13), another performing repetitions not to failure and 50% of the repetitions of the RFG (NFG, n = 12), and a third performing repetitions not to failure with equal training volume of the RFG (ENFG, n = 11). Training was performed twice a week for 20 weeks at intensities ranging from 65% to 80% of maximal strength. In each session, the individuals started with strengthening exercises and then performed aerobic exercise on a treadmill. Before and after the intervention, individuals were assessed for their one repetition maximum (1RM) for leg press (LP) and knee extension (KE) exercises, knee extensors’ isometric peak torque (PTiso), and rate of torque development (RTD) at 50 ms, 100 ms, and 250 ms, muscle thickness of the quadriceps, as well as functional performance on sit‐to‐stand, and timed up and go tests.

Results

After training, there were significant (P < 0.001) increases in the LP and KE 1RM, PTiso, and RTD outcomes in all groups. Also, there were significant increases in muscle thickness of the quadriceps and in the sit‐to‐stand test (P < 0.05) in all groups. No significant differences were observed between groups in any outcome.

Conclusion

Concurrent training using repetitions to concentric failure did not promote additional benefits for neuromuscular function, muscle thickness, or functional capacity of older individuals.
Resilience, Adaptation, and Inertia: Lessons from Disaster Recovery in a Time of Climate Change
Authors: Plein Christopher
Published: May 2019

Objectives

To examine and assess sociocultural or socioeconomic inertia as an impediment to effective climate change policy response and practice.

Methods

Two core concepts to climate change policy response, “resilience” and “adaptation,” are seen as critical in disaster recovery strategies and practice. As ideal types, these concepts are coalescing in theory and gaining acceptance in the professional community, but not necessarily in practice. These concepts are explored through a study of disaster recovery efforts following the West Virginia floods of 2016.

Results

Disaster recovery strategies based on ideal forms of resilience and adaptation face significant barriers to adoption and practice. Disjunction between theory and practice constitutes one form of inertia. Other contributing factors include individual and collective behavior that resists change through social justification and insular forms of social capital. Institutional drag, in the form of waning political will and limited administrative capacity, also impedes adoption and use.

Conclusion

Sociocultural and socioeconomic inertia challenge the development of effective policies and practices to address climate change; social science can contribute to our understanding of these sources of constraint.
Modeling of Abraded Surface Roughness and Wear Resistance of Aluminum Matrix Composites
Authors: Sardar Santanu , Pradhan Susanta Kumar , Karmakar Santanu Kumar , Das Debdulal
Published: May 2019

Tribological characterizations of composites are primarily focused on the evaluation of wear resistance (WR) and/or the coefficient of friction, although roughness of abraded surfaces (RASs) is one of the key factors that also determines tribo-performances. This study is aimed at modeling RAS in conjunction with WR considering experimental results of Al-matrix/alumina composites performed under two-body abrasion following the central composite design method. Influences of different in situ and ex situ parameters on tribo-responses were analyzed and modeled using analysis of variance, the response surface method, and multi-response optimization. The WR of the selected system was maximized at around 15 wt% alumina at which RAS was also the highest. The positive role of reinforcement on WR and its adverse effect on RAS were explained by micro-mechanisms of abrasion.
Passive ocean acoustic tomography in shallow water
Authors: Li Fenghua , Yang Xishan , Zhang Yanjun , Luo Wenyu , Gan Weiming
Published: May 2019

It has been demonstrated that an estimate of an empirical Green's function (EGF) can be extracted from the ocean ambient noise cross-correlation functions, which can provide an alternative method for ocean acoustic tomography. However, the requirement for a long recording time to obtain EGFs with a high signal-to-noise ratio limits the application. This article focuses on using array signal processing to accelerate the convergence rate of EGFs between two horizontally separated arrays. With the extracted EGFs and data assimilation, ocean sound speed profiles (SSPs) can be inverted every 2 h in shallow water. The experimental results indicate that the variation in ocean SSPs can be reconstructed with reasonable agreement using an average variance of 1.14 m/s over three months.
A three-dimensional underwater sound propagation model for offshore wind farm noise prediction
Authors: Lin Ying-Tsong , Newhall Arthur E. , Miller James H. , Potty Gopu R. , Vigness-Raposa Kathleen J.
Published: May 2019

A three-dimensional underwater sound propagation model with realistic ocean environmental conditions has been created for assessing the impacts of noise from offshore wind farm construction and operation. This model utilizes an existing accurate numerical solution scheme to solve the three-dimensional Helmholtz wave equation, and it is compared and validated with acoustic transmission data between 750 and 1250 Hz collected during the development of the Block Island Wind Farm (BIWF), Rhode Island. The variability of underwater sound propagation conditions has been investigated in the BIWF area on a temporal scale of months and a spatial scale of kilometers. This study suggests that future offshore wind farm developments can exploit the seasonal variability of underwater sound propagation for mitigating noise impact by scheduling wind farm construction during periods of high acoustic transmission loss. Discussions on other applications of soundscape prediction, planning, and management are provided.
Ice-stream demise dynamically conditioned by trough shape and bed strength
Authors: Bradwell Tom , Small David , Fabel Derek , Smedley Rachel K. , Clark Chris D. , Saher Margot H. , Callard S. Louise , Chiverrell Richard C. , Dove Dayton , Moreton Steven G. , Roberts David H. , Duller Geoff A. T. , Ó Cofaigh Colm
Published: May 2019

We show how the shape and strength of an ice stream’s bed can drive step changes in retreat rate and hasten ice loss to the ocean.
Adaptive introgression enables evolutionary rescue from extreme environmental pollution
Authors: Oziolor Elias M. , Reid Noah M. , Yair Sivan , Lee Kristin M. , Guberman VerPloeg Sarah , Bruns Peter C. , Shaw Joseph R. , Whitehead Andrew , Matson Cole W.
Published: May 2019

An unexpected advantage

Human activities are altering Earth's environment in many ways. Will other species be able to adapt in the face of rapid change? Adaptation requires genomic variability, but declining populations lose diversity, which casts doubt on adaptation as a survival mechanism in today's world. Oziolor
et al.
report a case of rapid adaptation to pollution in killifish, apparently enabled by introduction of a non-native congener within the last 30 generations (see the Perspective by Pfennig). This related species, possibly carried in ship ballast water, appears to have provided advantageous genetic variability that has allowed the native fish to adapt to its increasingly polluted environment.

Science
, this issue p.
455
; see also p.
433
Ultrafast optical pulse shaping using dielectric metasurfaces
Authors: Divitt Shawn , Zhu Wenqi , Zhang Cheng , Lezec Henri J. , Agrawal Amit
Published: May 2019

Metasurfaces get ultrafast pulses into shape

Nanostructured metasurfaces have been designed to function as many passive optical elements. Now, Divitt
et al.
demonstrate that metasurfaces can also be operated as time-dependent active optical elements. They used an array of dielectric metasurfaces to demonstrate pulse shaping of ultrashort (femtosecond) pulses in the near-infrared by manipulating the phase and amplitude of the frequency components. 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.
890
Multivascular networks and functional intravascular topologies within biocompatible hydrogels
Authors: Grigoryan Bagrat , Paulsen Samantha J. , Corbett Daniel C. , Sazer Daniel W. , Fortin Chelsea L. , Zaita Alexander J. , Greenfield Paul T. , Calafat Nicholas J. , Gounley John P. , Ta Anderson H. , Johansson Fredrik , Randles Amanda , Rosenkrantz Jessica E. , Louis-Rosenberg Jesse D. , Galie Peter A. , Stevens Kelly R. , Miller Jordan S.
Published: May 2019

Routes to independent vessel networks

In air-breathing vertebrates, the circulatory and pulmonary systems contain separate networks of channels that intertwine but do not intersect with each other. Recreating such structures within cell-compatible materials has been a major challenge; even a single vasculature system can be a burden to create. Grigoryan
et al.
show that natural and synthetic food dyes can be used as photoabsorbers that enable stereolithographic production of hydrogels containing intricate and functional vascular architectures. Using this approach, they demonstrate functional vascular topologies for studies of fluid mixers, valves, intervascular transport, nutrient delivery, and host engraftment.

Science
, this issue p.
458
Distinct immunocyte-promoting and adipocyte-generating stromal components coordinate adipose tissue immune and metabolic tenors
Authors: Spallanzani Raul German , Zemmour David , Xiao Tianli , Jayewickreme Teshika , Li Chaoran , Bryce Paul J. , Benoist Christophe , Mathis Diane
Published: May 2019

Adipose tissue T
regs
dynamically dialogue with stromal cells via the ST2:IL-33 axis in homeostasis and disease.
Changes in landscape evolution patterns in the northern Swiss Alpine Foreland during the mid-Pleistocene revolution
Authors: Claude Anne , Akçar Naki , Ivy-Ochs Susan , Schlunegger Fritz , Kubik Peter W. , Christl Marcus , Vockenhuber Christof , Kuhlemann Joachim , Rahn Meinert , Schlüchter Christian
Published: May 2019

The northern Swiss Alpine Foreland exemplifies a highly transient landscape characterized by multiple knickzones along the trunk valleys and distinct bedrock straths at their junction with tributary valleys. This landscape has evolved as a result of fast base level changes in response to repeated glaciations during the Quaternary. As the archives related to the evolution of this transient landscape are scarce, available quantitative information is limited, especially for the early and middle Pleistocene. In order to track the pace of the landscape evolution in the northern Swiss Alpine Foreland during the Pleistocene, in this study, we focus on the Deckenschotter sequences, the oldest Quaternary terrestrial sedimentary archives on the northern margin of the Central European Alps. These deposits have been morphostratigraphically divided into two: Höhere (Higher; HDS) and Tiefere (Lower; TDS) Deckenschotter. We analyzed seven different sites extending from Basel in the west to Schaffhausen in the east of Switzerland for the provenance signal, and we dated these archives by depth-profile and isochron-burial dating techniques with 10Be, 26Al, and 36Cl. Investigations on the petrographic compositions of the deposits revealed distinct provenances for the HDS and TDS deposits. During HDS time, the Alpine Rhine drained through Lake Constance and into the Danube River. Rerouting of the river toward the west and into the Upper Rhine Valley occurred between the end of HDS and the beginning of TDS accumulation. The results of the depth-profile and isochron-burial dating suggest that the HDS deposits accumulated at around 2 Ma as a result of a first widespread Alpine glaciation, whereas the TDS was deposited at around 1 Ma. Based on the provenance and the chronological information, we propose a scenario where the Rhine River captured the Alpine sources of the Danube and thus increased its runoff and enhanced its baseline lowering. Consequently, the landscape evolution has been accelerated possibly in response not only to the larger runoff but also to the climate change associated with the mid-Pleistocene revolution.
Rapid cooling history of a Neotethyan ophiolite: Evidence for contemporaneous subduction initiation and metamorphic sole formation
Authors: Parlak Osman , Dunkl István , Karaoğlan Fatih , Kusky Timothy M. , Zhang Chao , Wang Lu , Koepke Jürgen , Billor Zeki , Hames Willis E. , Şimşek Emrah , Şimşek Gökçe , Şimşek Tuğçe , Öztürk Selena Ezgi
Published: May 2019

The Beyşehir-Hoyran Nappes, including Mesozoic carbonate platform rocks, deep-sea sediments, and ophiolite-related units, crop out extensively on the western limb of the Isparta Angle in the Central Taurides, Turkey. The ophiolite-related rocks are represented by variably serpentinized harzburgitic mantle tectonites, tectonically underlain by a subophiolitic metamorphic sole and mélange. The harzburgitic mantle tectonites and metamorphic sole are intruded by undeformed isolated dikes. Protoliths of the metamorphic sole are similar to within-plate alkali basalts and associated sediments. The isolated dikes were geochemically derived mainly from tholeiitic magma and, to a lesser extent, from alkaline magma. Five isolated dike samples yielded U-Pb ages ranging from 90.8 ± 1.6 Ma to 87.6 ± 2.1 Ma (zircon) and from 102.3 ± 7.4 Ma to 87.5 ± 7.9 Ma (titanite). Seven amphibolite samples yielded U-Pb age ranges of 91.1 ± 2.1–88.85 ± 1.0 Ma (zircon) and 94.0 ± 4.8–90.0 ± 9.4 Ma (titanite) and a 40Ar-39Ar age range of 93.7 ± 0.3–91.4 ± 0.4 Ma (hornblende). U-Pb and 40Ar-39Ar ages of mineral phases with different closure temperatures (∼900–500 °C) from the isolated dikes and metamorphic sole rocks are almost identical and overlapping within 1σ, suggesting that both the magmatic growth of oceanic crust and formation of metamorphic sole were contemporaneous and cooled very rapidly. Hence, all the data should be interpreted as the crystallization ages of the ophiolite and metamorphic sole pair. Genesis of suprasubduction zone–type oceanic crust, genesis and exhumation of the metamorphic sole, and postmetamorphic dike emplacement within the Inner Tauride Ocean can be best explained by subduction initiation and rollback processes during the Late Cretaceous based on petrological and geochronological data obtained from the ophiolitic rocks of the Beyşehir-Hoyran Nappes.
Prevalence and relationship between burnout and depression in our future doctors: a cross-sectional study in a cohort of preclinical and clinical medical students in Ireland
Authors: Fitzpatrick Orla , Biesma Regien , Conroy Ronán M , McGarvey Alice
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This cross-sectional study was designed to measure burnout and its impact on risk of depression in a medical student population, comparing the preclinical and clinical years.

Design

We conducted a survey of 269 medical school students in both preclinical and clinical years at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, using the Beck Depression Inventory-Fast Screen (BDI-FS), the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Student Survey and items assessing willingness to use mental health services. Burnout scores were calibrated to probability of depression caseness and classified as low risk (<25%), intermediate (25%–50%) and high risk (>50%) of depression.

Results

There was a 39% (95% CI 33% to 45%) prevalence of depressive caseness based on a score of ≥6 on the BDI-FS. Prevalence did not vary significantly between clinical and preclinical years. The rate of burnout varied significantly between years (p=0.032), with 35% in the high-burnout category in clinical years compared with 26% in preclinical years. Those in the low burnout category had a 13% overall prevalence of depressive symptoms, those in the intermediate category had a 38% prevalence and those in the high category had a 66% prevalence of depressive symptoms. Increasing emotional exhaustion (OR for one—tertile increase in score 2.0, p=0.011) and decreasing academic efficacy (OR 2.1, p=0.007) increased the odds of being unwilling to seek help for mental health problems (11%).

Conclusion

While previous studies have reported significant levels of burnout and depression, our method of calibrating burnout against depression allows burnout scores to be interpreted in terms of their impact on mental health. The high prevalences, in line with previous research, point to an urgent need to rethink the psychological pressures of health professions education.
Anaesthesia-related complications and side-effects in TAVI: a retrospective study in Germany
Authors: Goldfuss Sophia , Wittmann Sigrid , Würschinger Fabian , Bitzinger Diane , Seyfried Timo , Holzamer Andreas , Fischer Marcus , Camboni Daniele , Sinner Barbara , Zausig York Alexander
Published: May 2019

Objectives

This study was performed to analyse anaesthesia-related complications and side effects in patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) under general anaesthesia.

Design

Retrospective study.

Setting

The study was performed as a single-centre study in a hospital of tertiary care in Germany.

Participants

All 853 patients, who underwent TAVI at the Universitätsklinikum Regensburg between January 2009 and July 2015, were included. 52.5% were female patients.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

We gathered information, such as recent illness, vital parameters and medication administered during the intervention and postoperatively for 12 hours. We analysed all anaesthesia-related complications and anaesthesia-related side effects that occurred during the intervention and entire hospital stay.

Results

We analysed all 853 TAVI procedures. The mean patient age was 79 ± 6 years. In 99.5% of cases, we used volatile-based anaesthesia. 2.8% (n=24; transfemoral (TF): n=19 [3.8%]; transapical (TA): n=5 [1.4%]) of all cases suffered from anaesthesia-related complications. 819 (TF: n=447; TA: n=372) anaesthesia-related side effects occurred in 586 (68.7%, TF: n=325 [64.2%], TA: n=261 [75.2%]) patients. Neither the complications nor the side effects had any serious consequences. Intraoperative hypothermia in 44% of cases (TF: n=202 [39.9%]; TA: n=173 [49.9%]) and postoperative nausea and vomiting in 27% (n=232; TF: n=131 [25.9%], TA: n=101 [29.1%]) of cases were the most common anaesthesia-related side effects.

Conclusion

In this study, serious anaesthesia-related complications were rarely seen, and non-critical anaesthesia-related side effects could have been avoided through consistent prophylaxis and management. Therefore, despite their high anaesthetic risk, general anaesthesia is justifiable in patients who underwent TAVI.
In vitro cytokine synthesis in unstimulated and mitogen-stimulated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from individuals with schizophrenia
Authors: Kozłowska Elżbieta , Żelechowska Paulina , Wysokiński Adam , Rasmus Paweł , Łucka Anna , Brzezińska-Błaszczyk Ewa
Published: May 2019

Increasing evidence has shown that the immune system is involved in the schizophrenia development, with alterations in immune cell reactivity being one possible factor contributing to its pathogenesis. The purpose of the study was to evaluate in vitro the capability of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from subjects with schizophrenia and controls to engage in spontaneous and phytohemagglutinin (PHA)-stimulated cytokine production. The concentrations of various cytokines (interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-17A, tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon (IFN)-γ and IL-10) in supernatants from cultured PBMCs were measured using the cytometric bead array. No significant differences in the spontaneous production of IL-1β, IL-17A, IFN-γ and IL-10 by PBMCs were detected between individuals with schizophrenia and controls. TNF synthesis by PBMCs was found to be lower among those with schizophrenia. In all subjects and controls, greater cytokine generation was associated with PBMCs treated with PHA compared with those that were not. The PBMCs from people with schizophrenia displayed considerably higher sensitivity to mitogen stimulation, as the production of IL-17A, TNF and IFN-γ was at least threefold of that observed in healthy subjects, which may be driven by antipsychotics taken by patients with schizophrenia. Correlation was observed between spontaneous production of IFN-γ and Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale G subscore (which measures the general symptoms of schizophrenia) and between PHA-stimulated synthesis of IL–17A and G subscore. Our data confirm that the immune system dysregulation may underlie schizophrenia pathophysiology. There is a potential possibility that immunological tests could be used as a diagnostic, therapeutic and side-effects biomarker for schizophrenia, but further studies are needed.