Infiltration Events Research Articles

A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Slowing Myopia Progression

Significance. Results of this randomized, double-masked clinical trial demonstrate the effectiveness of the MiSight soft contact lens in slowing myopia progression over multiple years.Purpose. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effectiveness of MiSight daily disposable soft contact lens in slowing the progression of juvenile-onset myopia.Methods. Myopic children (spherical equivalent refraction, −0.75 to −4.00 D; astigmatism, < 1.00 D) aged 8 to 12 years with no prior contact lens experience were enrolled in a 3-year, double-masked, randomized clinical trial at four investigational sites in four countries. Subjects in each group were matched for age, sex, and ethnicity and were randomized to either a MiSight®1 day contact lens (test) or Proclear®1 day (control; omafilcon A) and worn on a daily disposable basis. Primary outcome measures were the change in cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction and axial length.Results. Of the subjects enrolled, 75.5% (109/144) completed the clinical trial (53 test, 56 control). Unadjusted change in spherical equivalent refraction was −0.73 D (59%) less in the test group than in the control group (−0.51 ± 0.64 vs. –1.24 ± 0.61 D, P < 0.001). Mean change in axial length was 0.32 mm (52%) less in the test group than in the control group (0.30 ± 0.27 vs. 0.62 ± 0.30 mm, P < 0.001). Changes in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length were highly correlated (r = −0.90, P < .001). Over the course of the study, there were no cases of serious ocular adverse events reported. Four asymptomatic corneal infiltrative (one test, three control) events were observed at scheduled study visits.Conclusions. Results of this clinical trial demonstrate the effectiveness of the MiSight daily disposable soft contact lens in slowing change in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length.

Biochar Selection for Escherichia coli Removal in Stormwater Biofilters

Biochar’s capacity to remove pathogens from stormwater can vary by orders of magnitude, which makes it challenging for stormwater managers to select specific biochar from suppliers. In this study, the removal of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in model biofilters packed with sand and biochar from four suppliers was tested and correlation equations were developed that link short-term and long-term bacterial removal capacities of biochar with its commonly reported properties: surface area, carbon content, ash content, and volatile organic carbon content. The E. coli removal capacity of biochar was positively correlated with its surface area and carbon content and negatively correlated with ash content and volatile organic matter. Despite the presence of nutrients in stormwater, E. coli in pore water in biofilter did not grow between infiltration events, indicating biochar may continue to remove pathogens after rainfall. Overall, the results could help the selection of biochar from suppliers for the treatment of stormwater and inform the suppliers to tailor biochar production conditions to enrich specific biochar properties.

Event-driven dynamics of the total mobile inventory in undisturbed soil account for significant fluxes of particulate organic carbon

Considerable portions of the total mobile inventory of soil seepage are the diverse colloidal and larger suspended materials that essentially contribute to pedogenesis, soil functioning, and nutritional supply of subsurface ecosystems. However, the size- and material-spectra of the total mobile inventory, and field-scale factors controlling its long-term seasonal and episodic dynamics in undisturbed soil, are scarcely investigated so far. In a 4.5-year field-scale study, we utilized automated tension-controlled lysimeters optimized for in situ-sampling of total mobile inventory. Covering different land uses in a low-mountain groundwater recharge area in central Germany, seepage of top- and subsoil was collected at least biweekly and analyzed by hydrochemical and spectromicroscopic techniques (SEM/EDX, nanoparticle tracking analysis). In undisturbed soil, diverse mineral-, mineral-organic, organic, and bioparticles (microbial cells, biotic detritus) up to 75 μm was mobile. Atmospheric forcing was the major factor that governed transport of the total mobile inventory, causing considerable seasonality in seepage pH and certain solutes (e.g. sulphate), as well as episodic fluctuation of particulates. Especially episodic high-flow events, like those following snow melts and lasting rainstorms, primarily contributed to the export of inorganic/organic matter beyond the subsoil-regolith boundary. Individual infiltration events during winter accounted for up to 80% of annual fluxes of particulate organic carbon. On average, a significant proportion of 21% of the mobile organic carbon belonged to the >0.45 μm fraction. The pedological setting and land use mostly impacted the solute signature but were of minor importance for the particle load. Our ongoing monitoring provides evidence of significant episodic nutrient fluxes and unveiled pronounced temporal patterns of field-scale pH fluctuations. We conclude that dynamics of the total mobile inventory, including particulates >0.45 μm must be considered in approaches that budget carbon and elemental fluxes, but also in concepts and models on nutrient cycles and subsurface ecosystem functioning.

Structural stability and hydraulic characteristics of soils irrigated for two decades with waters having residual alkalinity and its neutralization with gypsum and sulfuric acid

Degradation of soils due to sodification is now widespread in arid and semiarid areas irrigated with groundwater having residual alkalinity. We monitored the changes in soil physical, chemical, and hydraulic characteristics of a sandy loam soil irrigated for the last two decades with two types of alkali waters (AW1, AW2) having similar salts (total electrolyte concentration, TEC=30 me L−1) and sodium adsorption ratio (SARiw 10 mmol L−1) but varying in residual sodium carbonate, RSC (5 me L−1 in AW1 and 10 me L−1 in AW2), and when latter irrigation water (AW2) was ameliorated to neutralize RSC equivalent to 5 me L−1 with either sulfuric acid (AW2 +SA) or gypsum (AW2 +GYP). Deterioration of overall soil quality was evidenced by increased bulk density and penetration resistance, decreased aggregate stability, increased soil pH and sodicity, and decline in accumulation of soil organic carbon, especially with AW2. Exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) build up ranged between 2.1 and 3.3 times SARiw. The steady infiltration rate (IR) in soil irrigated with good quality water, GQW (Electrical conductivity, ECiw=0.52dSm−1; RSC=1.2 me L−1), was 5.4 mm h−1 (IR-GQW) while it reduced to 2.2, 1.0, 1.7, and 1.8 mm h−1 with AW1, AW2, AW2 +SA, and AW2 +GYP, respectively. The adverse effects of soil sodification exacerbated with rainwater (RW; simulated with deionized water, EC <0.03dSm−1) infiltration, further reducing the IR to 1.1, 0.7, 1.4, and 1.0 mm h−1 for AW1, AW2, AW2 +SA, and AW2 +GYP, respectively. The recovery of IR was only a little (2–11%) when RW was replaced with respective irrigation waters, even when the surface 5 cm was tilled to break soil crusts (ST). This indicates permanent damage to soil structure and water transmission characteristics through the development of sub-soil throttles with moved-in clays. Power functions described the surface soil ESP to control IR (R2 =0.53–0.83 **), and the ESP values for 0.25 IR-GQW were 24.5, 15.8, 17.4, 14.5 and 14.4 for IW (respective irrigation waters), RW, IW-RW, RW-IW, and RW-IW-ST-IW sequences of infiltration events, respectively. There were considerable reductions in post-infiltration water storage in the soil profile, and a slowed down redistribution of infiltrated water were also observed. The neutralization of RSC with either sulfuric acid or gypsum improved the hydro-physical properties; the impact of gypsum being slightly better especially in improving soil stability characteristics.

Safety and Efficacy of Scleral Lenses for Keratoconus.

SIGNIFICANCEThis study affirms the long-term safety and efficacy of scleral contact lens use in patients with keratoconus.PURPOSEThis study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of contemporary scleral contact lenses in the visual rehabilitation of the keratoconic population.METHODSA retrospective study of keratoconic subjects examined between 2013 and 2018 was conducted. Subjects were included regardless of age, sex, pre-existing morbidity, or scleral lens design. Only eyes fit successfully with scleral contact lenses for ≥1 year were included. Exclusion criteria were prior corneal surgery, dystrophy, degeneration, and trauma.RESULTSA total of 157 eyes of 86 subjects met the study criteria. The mean Keratoconus Severity Score at initial fitting was 3.6 ± 1.0. Lenses were gas-permeable and nonfenestrated, with a mean overall diameter of 15.8 ± 0.6 mm and 70.1% toric scleral periphery. Physiological adverse events occurred in 9.6% of eyes, including microbial keratitis (0.6%), phlyctenulosis (0.6%), corneal abrasion (1.3%), contact lens–induced acute red eye (1.3%), corneal infiltrative events (1.3%), pingueculitis (1.3%), and hydrops (3.2%). Lens-related adverse events were documented in 55.4% of eyes. Adverse events related to surface issues included poor wetting in 1.9%, handling in 3.8%, reservoir fogging in 7.0%, lens intolerance in 7.6%, deposit in 8.9%, and broken lenses in 26.1% of eyes. The most common management strategies involved refits (54.0% of interventions), patient reeducation (29.5%), medical treatment (5.5%), surgical referral (6.8%), adjustment to wear time (2.5%), surface treatment (1.2%), and lens replacement (0.6%). Best-corrected distance logMAR visual acuity improved significantly from a mean of 0.50 in spectacles to a mean of 0.08 in scleral lenses (P < .0001). During the study period, 14.6% of eyes lost best-corrected scleral lens visual acuity, all from keratoconus progression.CONCLUSIONSConsistent with other groups, our study demonstrates excellent safety and efficacy of scleral contact lenses in subjects with keratoconus.

Soft contact lens wearers’ compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic

AimContact lens wearers need to maintain optimal hygiene practices during the COVID-19 pandemic to minimise contact-lens complications including microbial keratitis and corneal infiltrative events. This online survey (UK and Ireland) explored contact lens wearers’ compliance behaviours, attitudes and concerns during the pandemic. MethodThe 60-item anonymous online survey was distributed during a 1-month period via Qualtrics (starting on 14/04/20). The survey captured: a) demographic information, b) type of lenses worn and compliance with lens wear and care procedures, c) adherence to recommendations and d) concerns associated with contact lens wear during the pandemic. ResultsTwo hundred and forty seven responses were received (34.3 ± 11.7 years old, 79% female). Seventy nine percent of participants reported that they were self-isolating or rigorously following social distance advice. Fifty-six percent of participants reported using their lenses less during the pandemic. Eighty-seven percent of respondents reported following the recommended 20-second rule most times/every time and 96% used soap and water during handwashing. Eleven percent of respondents admitted not following recommendations regarding disposal of lenses and 18% would not consider ceasing lens wear if unwell (with flu/cold) during the pandemic. ConclusionRespondents reported wearing their contact lenses less than usual. Good compliance with handwashing was observed but soft reusable lens wearers showed a statistically significant lower compliance with lens wear and care compared to daily disposable lens wearers (p=<0.001).

Li isotope zoning in garnet from Franciscan eclogite and amphibolite: The role of subduction-related fluids

Fluids released within subduction zones affect many fundamental Earth processes, but very little is understood about processes of fluid transport within subduction zones and the chemistry of the fluids. Centimeter-scale variations in bulk-rock Li isotope compositions in subduction-related metamorphic rocks are observed associated with fluid-related features. The small spatial scales of these variations suggest very short duration fluid infiltration events – on the order of months to centuries. However, bulk-rock measurements record a time-integrated record, while in situ measurements in metamorphic porphyroblasts such as garnet have the potential to record individual events experienced by the rock. In this study, traverses across garnet in Franciscan eclogite and amphibolite were analyzed for Li isotopes in situ using SIMS to determine the potential for inferring the duration of metamorphic fluid flow and for deciphering fluid chemistry. The Li concentrations of these garnet crystals are very low, ∼5 µg/g. The measured range of δ7Li within some Franciscan garnets is 19‰, which falls well outside the uncertainty of the measurement (<∼4‰ 2σ). Observed variations in δ7Li occur within crystals over a scale of a few hundred microns, with crystal core-to-rim traverses exhibiting troughs of very low δ7Li measurements in the mantle region of the garnet crystals, surrounded by higher values in the garnet crystal rims and cores. Garnet crystal rims have lower δ18O values, which have previously been interpreted as a product of the infiltration of serpentinite-derived fluids. These results suggest a role for fluids fluxing through the slab to create the observed variability, and the unusual trough pattern suggests a role for intracrystalline diffusion. The low δ7Li troughs are observed only in garnet from one of two Franciscan localities. Nevertheless, garnets are similar in composition from the two localities. This contrast suggests that some aspect of the chemistry of the fluids may be responsible for the differences between the two localities; likely candidates are either pH or Eh of the fluid.

Revised Horton model for event and continuous simulations of infiltration

The Horton equation has been widely used to simulate infiltration under ponding conditions and many efforts have been made to expand the applicability of this method to non-ponding conditions. However, because of the absence of appropriate drainage controls, most existing modified Horton methods cannot be used for continuous rainfall-runoff simulations with long dry time periods. The objective of this study is to develop a modified Horton infiltration model (MHI) for both event and continuous simulations with soil moisture threshold controls. Unlike other modified Horton methods, nonlinear and linear equations are used in this new method to quantify the relationships between infiltration capacity and soil water storage respectively for wet and dry soil moisture conditions (wet: gravity-driven free drainage stage; dry: capillarity-dominated non-drainage stage). Two tests of the MHI model were conducted to evaluate its performance in both event and continuous simulations. Fourteen modeling scenarios were considered in the event modeling test of MHI, which involved three soil types of different initial water contents under various rainfall conditions. The simulation results of MHI were compared with those simulated by a modified Green-Ampt model and the reference data from Mein and Larson (1971). Furthermore, MHI was applied to a field site in Grand Forks, North Dakota for continuous modeling and compared against the observed data, which demonstrated its capability in the modeling of infiltration and soil moisture variations.

Moisture content, pore-water pressure and wetting front in granite residual soil during collapsing erosion with varying slope angle

Collapsing erosion is very severe in subtropical regions that are covered extensively by granite residual soil. However, detailed information about hydraulic responses during collapsing erosion, especially for different slope angles, remains unclear. Therefore, to control collapsing erosion, it is important to attain a more comprehensive understanding of the complex hydraulic responses due to rainfall. In this study, an artificial rainfall simulator and an experimental device were used to evaluate the collapsing erosion process, with particular consideration of the influence of slope angle. Flume experiments using three slope angles (0, 10, and 20°) were performed under artificial rainfall. This study explored the evolutions and hydraulic responses of collapsing erosion of granite residual soil by simultaneously monitoring moisture content, pore-water pressure, and wetting front during heavy rainfall. The results showed that collapsing erosion occurred faster with steeper slope angle. Collapse occurred in an upslope direction, when the corresponding moisture content of the soil was between 30% and 40%. Pore-water pressure increased until the development of collapsing erosion but was released when the soil mass collapsed. The descending process of the wetting front on a gentle slope and a steep slope can be divided into two stages and three stages, respectively. This study presents an improved characterization of collapsing erosion and provides valuable evidence for slope-angle impacts on infiltration events during collapsing erosion under heavy rainfall.

Assessing the potential of soil moisture measurements for regional landslide early warning

In mountainous terrain, rainfall-induced landslides pose a serious risk to people and infrastructure. Regional landslide early warning systems (LEWS) have proven to be a cost-efficient tool to inform the public about the imminent landslide danger. While most operational LEWS are based on rainfall exceedance thresholds only, recent studies have demonstrated an improvement of the forecast quality after the inclusion of soil hydrological information. In this study, the potential of in situ soil moisture measurements for regional landslide early warning is assessed. For the first time, a comprehensive soil moisture measurement database was compiled for Switzerland and compared with a national landslide database (Swiss flood and landslide damage database, WSL). The time series were homogenized and normalized to represent saturation values. From ensembles of sensors, the mean and standard deviation saturation were calculated and infiltration events were delimited, characterized, and classified as landslide-triggering or non-triggering based on the occurrence of landslides within a specified forecast distance. A logistic regression function was applied to model the landslide activity based on the infiltration event characteristics and several models were analysed and compared with receiver operating characteristics (ROC). A strong distance dependence becomes apparent showing a forecast goodness decrease with increasing distance between water content measurement site and landslide, and a better forecast goodness for long-lasting as opposed to short-duration precipitation events. While most variability can be explained by the two event properties antecedent saturation and change of saturation during an infiltration event, event properties that describe antecedent conditions are more important for long-lasting as opposed to short-duration precipitation events that can be better explained by properties describing event dynamics. Overall, the analysis demonstrated that in situ soil moisture data effectively contains specific information useful for landslide early warning.

Benchmarking evaluation of five PHMB-based multi-purpose solutions and a silicone hydrogel contact lens

AIM: To evaluate and compare the clinical performance of 5 kinds of polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) based multi-purpose solutions (MPS) manufactured in China when used with a commercially available silicone hydrogel contact lens in terms of solution-induced corneal staining (SICS), ocular response (corneal staining and ocular hyperemia), corneal infiltrative event (CIEs) and ocular comfort. METHODS: This was a prospective, open label, randomized, parallel group clinical trial. Totally 162 participants (Pxs) who were at least 18y were enrolled and randomized into 5 groups of PHMB-based MPS made in China: Complete® MPS, Hydron® Aqua-shining moist, Baoshining™, Weicon® Fresh, Weicon® 2000 MPS (abbreviated as C, H, B, W, and W2). All participants wore balafilcon A contact lenses with monthly disposal (Bausch &amp; Lomb Purevision®) in conjunction with the designated MPS on a daily wear for 3mo. Clinical visits were at baseline, 2wk, 1mo and 3mo. SICS and CIE were reported as first event incidence per 100 Px-months. Ocular response was graded on 0-4 scale in 0.5 steps (0=none, 4=severe) and ocular comfort was assessed via a numeric rating scale (1-10 in 1-point steps, 1=poor, 10=excellent). Ocular comfort and ocular response variables were analysed using linear mixed model. CIE and SICS were analysed using Fisher’s exact test and logistic regression. RESULTS: There were 36 (22%) Pxs who dropped out. SICS incidence for each MPS were: H (26.3%), B (20.8%), W (19.4%), W2 (13.4%), C (12.8%). The SICS rate of H was significantly different to W2 (P=0.012) and C (P=0.005). There were no significant differences in ocular response, CIE incidence and ocular comfort between different MPSs (P&gt;0.05). Pxs with SICS had significantly lower comfort during the day and at the end of than those who did not have SICS. CONCLUSION: Differences in SICS incidence are found between MPSs but not for CIE incidence, ocular response or ocular comfort. SICS in PHMB-based MPS is found to be associated with ocular discomfort. More MPS/lens combinations should be studied in the future.

Comparison of perioperative analgesia using the infiltration of the surgical site with ropivacaine alone and in combination with meloxicam in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy

BackgroundInfiltration of the surgical site with local anesthetics combined with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may play an important role in improving perioperative pain control. This prospective, randomized, blinded, controlled clinical trial aimed to evaluate intraoperative isoflurane requirements, postoperative analgesia, and adverse events of infiltration of the surgical site with ropivacaine alone and combined with meloxicam in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Forty-five cats premedicated with acepromazine/meperidine and anesthetized with propofol/isoflurane were randomly distributed into three treatments (n = 15 per group): physiological saline (group S), ropivacaine alone (1 mg/kg, group R) or combined with meloxicam (0.2 mg/kg, group RM) infiltrated at the surgical site (incision line, ovarian pedicles and uterus). End-tidal isoflurane concentration (FE’ISO), recorded at specific time points during surgery, was adjusted to inhibit autonomic responses to surgical stimulation. Pain was assessed using an Interactive Visual Analog Scale (IVAS), UNESP-Botucatu Multidimensional Composite Pain Scale (MCPS), and mechanical nociceptive thresholds (MNT) up to 24 h post-extubation. Rescue analgesia was provided with intramuscular morphine (0.1 mg/kg) when MCPS was ≥6.ResultsArea under the curve (AUC) of FE’ISO was significantly lower (P < 0.0001) in the RM (17.8 ± 3.1) compared to S (23.1 ± 2.2) and R groups (22.8 ± 1.1). Hypertension (systolic arterial pressure > 160 mmHg) coinciding with surgical manipulation was observed only in cats treated with S and R (4/15 cats, P = 0.08). The number of cats receiving rescue analgesia (4 cats in the S group and 1 cat in the R and RM groups) did not differ among groups (P = 0.17). The AUC of IVAS, MCPS and MNT did not differ among groups (P = 0.56, 0.64, and 0.18, respectively). Significantly lower IVAS pain scores were recorded at 1 h in the RM compared to the R and S groups (P = 0.021–0.018). There were no significant adverse effects during the study period.ConclusionsLocal infiltration with RM decreased intraoperative isoflurane requirements and resulted in some evidence of improved analgesia during the early postoperative period. Neither R nor RM infiltration appeared to result in long term analgesia in cats undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

Faro Waste Rock Project: Characterizing Variably Saturated Flow Behavior Through Full‐Scale Waste‐Rock Dumps in the Continental Subarctic Region of Northern Canada Using Field Measurements and Stable Isotopes of Water

AbstractUnderstanding water flow through variably saturated waste‐rock dumps is important for determining the extent of sulfide‐mineral oxidation, contaminant loadings, and impacts of waste‐rock effluent on groundwater and surface‐water quality. To better understand water flow within full‐scale waste‐rock dumps in the continental subarctic region of Northern Canada, a field experiment was undertaken at the Main and Intermediate Dumps at the Faro Mine Complex, Yukon Territory. Here we present results from an investigation of the hydrological behavior and quantification of the factors controlling water flow through unsaturated waste‐rock dumps and the impacts on long‐term drainage water quality. The results suggest that flow through the fine matrix materials was the dominant flow mechanism, with possible preferential flow through macropores and ponding/runoff during intense infiltration events (i.e., snowmelt and intense rainfall). Cross δ18O‐δ2H plots of pore water collected from near‐surface waste‐rock samples suggested that evaporation at the surface of the dumps occurred during precipitation‐free periods in the summer. Depth profiles of δ18O and δ2H of pore water extracted from core samples provided indications of internal evaporation within the waste‐rock dumps and pore‐water displacement mainly in response to summer rainfall events (rather than snowmelt). Mixing calculations using δ18O and δ2H show that 76–95% of pore water present in the waste‐rock matrix was derived from summer rainfall, leading to lower concentrations of dissolved constituents in the summer effluent, and vice versa in winter. The results will inform cover design and remediation options for the waste‐rock dumps at the Faro Mine Complex.

Abstract WP414: Transcranial Photobiomodulation of Clearance of Blood Products From the Neonatal Brain via the Meningeal Lymphatics

In human data we observed the presence of products of degraded blood (the iron/hemosiderin) in the meningeal lymphatic vessels (MLVs) and in the deep cervical lymph node (dcLN) in newborns who died after intracranial hemorrhages. Here we demonstrate novel data related to transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) of clearance of blood products (the iron/hemosiderin) from the brain via MLVs in newborn rats after stress-induced intracranial hemorrhages (SIH). Experiments were carried out in 73 newborn rats (5 g) with SIH. All procedures were performed in accordance with the “Position of the American Heart Association on Research Animal Use” (Circulation 1985; 71:849A). The new generation laser 1268 nm (30 nm, 7 min) was used for tPBM of lymphatic clearance of blood products that was analyzed in vivo (two-photon, fluorescent, optical coherent tomography imaging) and ex vivo (immunohistochemical, confocal data) using markers of cerebral and lymphatic endothelium (CD31, LYVE-1/LYVE-1 conjugated with Alexa 488 and Prox-1). The results clearly demonstrated that 30 min after SIH the iron/hemosiderin (detected by atomic absorption spectroscopy and histological method) accumulated in the dcLN and observed in the MLVs. The tPBM caused stimulation of lymphatic drainage function that was accompanied by decrease in the iron/hemosiderin level in the brain tissues with an appropriate increase of their level in the dcLN. The tPBM (one time a day) during one week contributed a better recovery after SIH vs. the control group (without tPBM) that was confirmed by analysis of inflammatory factors (C-reactive protein, IL-6 and lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2, immunoassay analysis), macrophages infiltration (confocal imaging), edema, necrotic and ischemic events (histological data). In sum, our results suggest that tPBM by stimulation of endogenous processes of cerebral lymphatic drainage and clearing function might be a novel non-invasive approach for brain recovery after neonatal intracranial hemorrhages. The research was supported by grant of Russian Science Foundation No 18-75-10033.

Metasomatic Vein Formation by Stationary Fluids in Carbonate Xenoliths at the Eastern Margin of the Bergell Intrusion, Val Sissone, Italy

AbstractFluid flow is an important mechanism associated with heat and mass transport within the Earth’s crust. The study of veins, which represent channelling of fluids, can thus be key in understanding these fluid movements, unravelling fluid composition and origin, paleo stress regimes, and the history of the host-rock. New stable isotope data on carbonates and silicates have been combined with phase petrology, mass balance, and field observations to evaluate the formation mechanism of metasomatic reaction veins in dolomitic xenoliths in the Bergell tonalites (Val Sissone, Italy). Multiple generations of extensional veins can be followed from the contact zone between the dolomites and the intrusion to a few meters within either the tonalites (with the epidote–quartz veins), or within the dolomites, where they terminate. Each type of vein contains a central zone, which is formed by open fracture crystallization. This central fracture is framed by relatively symmetric replacement zones, where the original dolomite reacted to form either forsterite, diopside, tremolite or talc, all accompanied by calcite in either a succession of reaction zones or in simpler bi-mineral (silicate + calcite) veins. The δ18O and δ13C values across the veins allow temperatures to be estimated from different mineral pairs (silicate + calcite), and which confirm vein formation along a retrograde cooling path of the intrusion. At least four different fluid infiltration events are required, the first one around 555 °C to form the forsterite–calcite veins, followed by the epidote–quartz veins at temperatures around 430 °C, then the tremolite–calcite veins at around 390 °C, and finally the talc–calcite veins at around 140 °C. The shape of the δ18O and δ13C profiles, which are flat across the central part and the replacement zones of the veins (buffered by the intrusion), change substantially over short distances. Both of these isotope profiles overlap with the equally sharp mineralogical front between the veins and the unreacted dolomites. These profiles are interpreted to be the result of an isotopic exchange mechanism driven by dissolution and re-precipitation reactions. All veins are oriented perpendicular to the contact with the intrusive body, except for the late talc veins. Elevated fluid pressures, above the confining pressures caused by the regional and intrusion emplacement stress field, are suggested to be responsible for the initial fracturing of the carbonates and intrusive rocks. The contact zones between the tonalites and carbonates likely served as fluid conduits, where fluids accumulated and the pressure built up until hydrofracturing occurred. We propose that the veins formed through episodic pulses of highly reactive fluids that remained stationary during reaction, rather than a system where fluids flushed through the veins. Based on the XCO2-constrained mass balance, the formation of the veins would only require a relatively small amount of fluid, which could potentially originate from the intrusive rocks in vicinity of the xenoliths. Veining is not ubiquitous around the Bergell intrusion, suggesting that it only may have been a localized event and thus there is no need to involve a larger convective hydrothermal system for their formation.

The susceptibility of bacterial isolate from corneal infiltrative events of Melimine Antimicrobial Contact Lens (MACL) wear clinical trial

Purpose The Melimine Antimicrobial Contact Lens (MACL) clinical trial was conducted to assess its efficacy in reducing corneal infiltrative events (CIEs) during extended wear. The current study investigated the susceptibility of bacteria isolated from contact lenses (CL) of subjects with CIEs during the trial to the Mel4 (Melimine) antimicrobial peptide and the impact of Mel4 on bacterial adhesion to CLs in vitro.

Safety of soft contact lenses in children: retrospective review of six randomized controlled trials of myopia control.

To examine the rate and types of ocular adverse events among children wearing soft contact lenses. This study is a retrospective review of ocular adverse event data from six randomized controlled trials among a total of 581 myopic children (aged 7-15years at baseline) administered daily disposable hydrogel contact lenses (etafilcon A). During 816 patient years of contact lens wear, no significant or serious ocular adverse events were reported. A total of 86 non-significant ocular adverse events occurred in 53 children. The crude rate of ocular adverse events was 10.6 per 100 patient years with the estimated pooled incidence being 8.9 per 100 patient years (95% CI: 4.5-17.4). Two asymptomatic corneal infiltrative events were reported (both non-significant), which is an incidence of 0.3 (95% CI: 0.1-0.9) per 100 patient years. The most common ocular adverse events (n) were slit-lamp findings of Grade 2 or less requiring treatment (26), unspecified conjunctivitis (14), and allergic conjunctivitis (13). No cases of microbial keratitis were observed. Of the 86 adverse events, 37 were classified as highly likely or possibly lens-related, giving a crude incidence of 4.5 per 100 patient years for contact lens-related events. The crude incidence of ocular adverse events among spectacle wearers was 1.8 per 100 patient years. These data suggest that daily disposable soft contact lenses can be safely worn by children. Additional studies will be needed to precisely quantify the adverse event rate of soft contact lenses in normal clinical practice.

Biofilters as effective pathogen barriers for greywater reuse

Greywater is an alternative water resource, having many favourable characteristics over stormwater or wastewater. In particular, it can be supplied consistently and generated close to desirable end-use applications. Although greywater is considered to contain a low level of contamination, treatment is still required before the end-use, and passive filtration such as biofiltration became a popular option due to its low maintenance and low energy consumption. To this end, a laboratory experiment was conducted with synthetic greywater over 12 months to test the influence of operational characteristics and design factors on pathogen removal from greywater. The role of plants types, saturated zone, and the absence/inclusion of antimicrobial material were tested in a total of 80 biofilter columns. The results showed that the biofilters obtained a median E. coli logarithmic removal of 3.0 across the tested configurations and produced quality of water that meets indoor non-potable use standard (NRMMC, 2006). Further, the infiltration rate and event size were found to significantly influence E. coli removal in greywater biofilters (ANOVA, p < 0.05). The presence of antimicrobial media also significantly improved E. coli removal (up to 1.4 log) compared to non-amended media (ANOVA, p < 0.05). Vegetation also played a significant role in removing E. coli (ANOVA < 0.05). This study successfully suggested the great potential for the application of biofilters to greywater treatment and identified key design factors for consideration prior to implementation.

A 3-year Randomized Clinical Trial of MiSight Lenses for Myopia Control.

Results of this randomized, double-masked clinical trial demonstrate the effectiveness of the MiSight soft contact lens in slowing myopia progression over multiple years. The purpose of this study was to quantify the effectiveness of MiSight daily disposable soft contact lens in slowing the progression of juvenile-onset myopia. Myopic children (spherical equivalent refraction, -0.75 to -4.00 D; astigmatism, <1.00 D) aged 8 to 12 years with no prior contact lens experience were enrolled in a 3-year, double-masked, randomized clinical trial at four investigational sites in four countries. Subjects in each group were matched for age, sex, and ethnicity and were randomized to either a MiSight 1-day contact lens (test) or Proclear 1-day (control; omafilcon A) and worn on a daily disposable basis. Primary outcome measures were the change in cycloplegic spherical equivalent refraction and axial length. Of the subjects enrolled, 75.5% (109/144) completed the clinical trial (53 test, 56 control). Unadjusted change in spherical equivalent refraction was -0.73 D (59%) less in the test group than in the control group (-0.51 ± 0.64 vs. -1.24 ± 0.61 D, P < .001). Mean change in axial length was 0.32 mm (52%) less in the test group than in the control group (0.30 ± 0.27 vs. 0.62 ± 0.30 mm, P < .001). Changes in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length were highly correlated (r = -0.90, P < .001). Over the course of the study, there were no cases of serious ocular adverse events reported. Four asymptomatic corneal infiltrative (one test, three control) events were observed at scheduled study visits. Results of this clinical trial demonstrate the effectiveness of the MiSight daily disposable soft contact lens in slowing change in spherical equivalent refraction and axial length.

Insights Into Permafrost and Seasonal Active‐Layer Dynamics From Ambient Seismic Noise Monitoring

AbstractWidespread permafrost thaw in response to changing climate conditions has the potential to dramatically impact ecosystems, infrastructure, and the global carbon budget. Ambient seismic noise techniques allow passive subsurface monitoring that could provide new insights into permafrost vulnerability and active‐layer processes. Using nearly 2 years of continuous seismic data recorded near Fairbanks, Alaska, we measured relative velocity variations that showed a clear seasonal cycle reflecting active‐layer freeze and thaw. Relative to January 2014, velocities increased up to 3% through late spring, decreased to −8% by late August, and then gradually returned to the initial values by the following winter. Velocities responded rapidly (over ~2 to 7 days) to discrete hydrologic events and temperature forcing and indicated that spring snowmelt and infiltration events from summer rainfall were particularly influential in propagating thaw across the site. Velocity increases during the fall zero‐curtain captured the refreezing process and incremental ice formation. Looking across multiple frequency bands (3–30 Hz), negative relative velocities began at higher frequencies earlier in the summer and then shifted lower when active‐layer thaw deepened, suggesting a potential relationship between frequency and thaw depth; however, this response was dependent on interstation distance. Bayesian tomography returned 2‐D time‐lapse images identifying zones of greatest velocity reduction concentrated in the western side of the array, providing insight into the spatial variability of thaw progression, soil moisture, and drainage. This study demonstrates the potential of passive seismic monitoring as a new tool for studying site‐scale active‐layer and permafrost thaw processes at high temporal and spatial resolution.