bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ProFlow nano‐liquid chromatography with a graphene oxide‐functionalized monolithic nano‐column for the simultaneous determination of chloramphenicol and chloramphenicol glucuronide in foods
Authors: Demir Nurullah , Aydoğan Cemil
Published: March 2022

Chloramphenicol (CAP) is an effective antibiotic with broad spectrum against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria, while it is used to treat various infections in animals. Although CAP is banned for usage in the livestock products including, milk, honey, seafood, and royal jelly, CAP is still often detected in foods of animal origin, posing a threat to consumer health. The use of CAP is restricted in many countries due to its side effect in human metabolic process according to the Expert Committee on Food Additives (ECFA) recommendation. Chloramphenicol glucuronide (CAPG) is also a metabolic product of CAP, which may be a hazardous chemical for human health. Therefore, the development of sensitive separation and quantification method is an important issue, especially for food safety. Herein, we reported the preparation and application of a monolithic nano‐column for CAP and CAPG analyses in foods by ProFlow Nano liquid chromatography (ProFlow Nano LC). The monolithic nano‐column was prepared by an in situ polymerization using 3‐chloro‐2‐hydroxypropylmethacrylate (HPMA‐Cl) and ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA) and followed graphene oxide (GO) modification. After characterization, the monolithic nano‐column was used for the analysis of CAP and CAPG in honey and milk samples by ProFlow Nano LC. The whole method was validated in terms of linearity, sensitivity, precision, recovery, and repeatability, while it led to obtain high sensitivity with limit of quantification was found as 0.02 µg/kg for CAP. Limit of quantification for CAPG was found as 0.08 µg/kg. The developed method with monolithic nano‐column was optimized to achieve very sensitive analyses of CAP and CAPG in the food samples. The applicability of the nano‐column was successfully demonstrated by the analysis of CAP and CAPG in milk and honey samples.

Practical Application

This article describes the preparation and application of a monolithic nano‐column for the separation and determination of chloramphenicol and chloramphenicol glucuronide in food samples by ProFlow Nano LC. The use of new and advanced techniques is a crucial issue in the food science and technology. In this sense, this study demonstrated a new food analysis method using advanced instrumental technique with a homemade monolithic nano‐column.
A Hybrid of Copula Prediction and Time Series Computation to Estimate Stream Discharge Based on Precipitation Data
Authors: Ouyang Ying
Published: March 2022

Stream discharge is a key hydrological factor for water supply planning, wetland loss investigation, ecological service assessment, and climate change impact estimation. Conceptually, stream discharge is expected to be highly and positively related to precipitation. In reality, however, such a relationship may be weaker because precipitation characteristics are affected by local climate of watersheds. For many watersheds around the world, a vast amount of precipitation data are readily available but the stream discharge data are very limited or unavailable. It would be time‐saving and cost‐effective to predict stream discharge based on precipitation data. Unfortunately, this task is very difficult to achieve using the traditional methods. Although the copula method is able to establish a good relationship (or a good dependence structure) between discharges and precipitations, this relationship does not include the time series process, and thus is impractical for applications. Therefore, a hybrid of copula prediciton and time series computation was developed (with detailed procedures) here to estimate stream discharge based on precipitation data. The method was validated using the measured daily discharges with the good statistical measures, that is, the Kandell’s τ (0.42–0.44), normalized root mean square error (2.19–2.28 m3/s), and R2 (0.66–0.84). This study suggests that the hybrid method is a useful tool to predict stream discharges based on precipitation data.
Effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of face‐to‐face and electronic brief interventions versus screening alone to reduce alcohol consumption among high‐risk adolescents presenting to emergency departments: three‐arm pragmatic randomized trial (SIPS Junior high risk trial)
Authors: Deluca Paolo , Coulton Simon , Alam Mohammed Fasihul , Boniface Sadie , Donoghue Kim , Gilvarry Eilish , Kaner Eileen , Lynch Ellen , Maconochie Ian , McArdle Paul , McGovern Ruth , Newbury‐Birch Dorothy , Patton Robert , Pellat‐Higgins Tracy , Phillips Ceri , Phillips Thomas , Pockett Rhys D. , Russell Ian T. , Strang John , Drummond Colin
Published: March 2022

Background and aims

Alcohol use increases throughout adolescence. Emergency department (ED) attendance is an opportunity for alcohol screening and brief intervention (ASBI), which is effective for adults. This trial evaluated the effectiveness and cost‐effectiveness of ASBI compared with screening alone (SA) in high‐risk adolescents.

Design, Setting and Participants

Multi‐centre, three‐group, single‐blind, individually randomized trial with follow‐ups after 6 and 12 months in 10 ED settings in England. From October 2014 to May 2015 we screened 3327 adolescents aged 14 to 18 years, of whom 756 (22.7%) scored at least 3 on the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test: consumption (AUDIT‐C) and consented to participate in this trial. Mean age was 16.1 years; 50.2% were female and 84.9% were white.

Interventions

Interventions were personalized feedback and brief advice (PFBA), personalized feedback plus electronic brief intervention (eBI) and SA.

Measures

The primary outcome was the weekly alcohol consumed in standard UK units (8 g ethanol) at 12 months post‐randomization, derived from extended AUDIT‐C. Economic outcomes included quality of life and service use, from perspectives of both the National Health Service and personal social services (NHS&PSS) and society.

Findings

At 12 months, mean weekly consumption was 2.99 [95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.38–3.70] standard units for the SA group, 3.56 (95% CI = 2.90, 4.32) for PFBA and 3.18 (95% CI = 2.50, 3.97) for eBI, showing no significant differences. The PFBA group consumed mean 0.57 (−0.36, 1.70) units more than SA; and eBIs consumed 0.19 (−0.71, 1.30) more. Bayes factors suggested lack of effectiveness explained non‐significance. From the NHS&PSS perspective, economic analysis showed that PFBA and eBI were not cost‐effective compared with SA: PFBA yielded incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of £6213 (−£736 843, £812 884), with the intervention having 54% probability of being cost‐effective compared with SA at the £20 000 WTP threshold.

Conclusions

In emergency departments in England, neither personalized feedback and brief advice nor personalized feedback plus electronic brief intervention showed evidence of being effective or cost‐effective when compared with screening alone in reducing alcohol consumption among adolescents.
Topical ophthalmic beta‐blockers are associated with ocular pseudopemphigoid: A pharmacovigilance study of antiglaucoma medications utilising the FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Jedlowski Patrick Michael , Jedlowski Mahdieh Fazel
Published: March 2022

Background/objective

The association between antiglaucoma medications and the development of ocular pseudopemphigoid (OPP) has been described; however, the independent risk of each medication has not been quantified.

Methods

Case/non‐case analyses were performed in the FDA Adverse Events Reporting System (FAERS) using data from 2010–2020 to examine the reporting odds ratio (ROR) signal for OPP for all classes of antiglaucoma medications under multiple conditions: (i) comparison to all other drugs in FAERs, (ii) comparison to other antiglaucoma medications, (iii) comparison to vehicle/hydrating eye drops with cases of OPP and (iv) comparison to vehicle/hydrating eyedrops with and without cases of OPP to control for topical irritant and preservative effects.

Results

A statistically significant ROR for OPP was found for aggregate antiglaucoma medications under the first condition but not the third or fourth (i.96.97 (95% CI 52.54–178.98). The largest signal for OPP when compared to other glaucoma drugs and eye drops was seen with unoprostone (ii.68.96 (95% CI 8.35–569.50, iii.39.85 (95% CI 4.14–383.33), iv.581.67 (95% CI 49.38–6851.57) followed by carteolol (ii.32.51(95% CI 9.02–117.67), iii.10.67 (95% CI 1.77–64.13), iv.77.84 (95% CI 12.95–467.78) and betaxolol (ii.23.38 (95% CI 7.28–74.46), iii.6.94 (95% CI 1.27–38.01), iv.50.67 (95% CI 9.26–277.25). A statistically significant ROR was noted only for the beta‐blockers class aggregate under conditions ii and iv.

Conclusions

Our findings support an association between OPP and antiglaucoma medications; under the most stringent control for topical irritant/preservative effect by of comparison to topical eye drops, unoprostone, carteolol, betaxolol and timolol all had a significant ROR for OPP.
Endoscopic vaporization of benign prostatic hyperplasia using a contact 980 nm diode laser under antithrombotic therapy: A prospective survey
Authors: Sanjo Tansei , Tanaka Nobuyuki , Shinojima Toshiaki , Yasumizu Yota , Takeda Toshikazu , Matsumoto Kazuhiro , Morita Shinya , Kosaka Takeo , Mizuno Ryuichi , Asanuma Hiroshi , Oya Mototsugu
Published: March 2022

Introduction

To prospectively clarify whether endoscopic contact laser vaporization of the prostate (CVP) can be safely performed even in patients undergoing antithrombotic therapy.

Methods

Fifty‐five patients treated with CVP were enrolled. Patients were assigned to: (i) the antithrombotic therapy group (n = 21, 38%); or (ii) control group without antithrombotic therapy (n = 34, 62%). All patients in the antithrombotic therapy group continued all antithrombotic agents during the perioperative period and thereafter.

Results

No difference was noted in patient background between the two groups. In primary endpoints, decreases in the postoperative hemoglobin level were remarkable in the antithrombotic therapy group, while no serious effects were noted in either group. The control and antithrombotic therapy groups did not show a significant difference in the occurrence of catheter obstruction due to blood clots or serious hematuria following catheter removal. During follow‐up, transurethral coagulation for hemostasis was needed only in the antithrombotic therapy group, with a frequency of transurethral coagulation of up to 14%. In secondary endpoints, no difference in the occurrence of perioperative or late‐onset complications after surgery was noted between the two groups. Finally, no difference was noted in improvements in the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), IPSS quality of life score, overactive bladder symptom score, maximum flow rate, or post‐voiding residual urine volume between the two groups throughout the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

CVP can be performed safely and effectively in patients undergoing continuous antithrombotic therapy. However, the possibility of secondary bleeding after discharge in a subset of patients, such as those undergoing antithrombotic therapy, may be noted.
Overexpression of Tetraspanin31 contributes to malignant potential and poor outcomes in gastric cancer
Authors: Takashima Yusuke , Komatsu Shuhei , Ohashi Takuma , Kiuchi Jun , Kamiya Hajime , Shimizu Hiroki , Arita Tomohiro , Konishi Hirotaka , Shiozaki Atsushi , Kubota Takeshi , Okamoto Kazuma , Fujiwara Hitoshi , Tsuda Hitoshi , Otsuji Eigo
Published: March 2022

Tetraspanin has important functions in many cancers by aggregating with various proteins that interact with intracellular signaling proteins. The molecular function of Tetraspanin31 (TSPAN31), located in the 12q14 amplified region in various cancers, remains unclear in gastric cancer (GC). We tested whether TSPAN31 acts as a cancer‐promoting gene through its activation or overexpression in GC. We analyzed seven GC cell lines and 189 primary tumors, which were curatively resected in our hospital between 2011 and 2013. Overexpression of the TSPAN31 protein was frequently detected in three GC cell lines (42.9%) and 62 primary GC specimens (32.8%). Overexpression of TSPAN31 was significantly correlated with lymphatic invasion, venous invasion, more advanced pT and pN stages, and a higher recurrence rate. Moreover, TSPAN31 positivity was an independent factor predicting worse patient outcomes (p = 0.0283, hazard ratio 3.97). Ectopic overexpression of TSPAN31 facilitated cell proliferation of GC cells, and knockdown of TSPAN31 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition of GC cells through the PI3K‐Akt pathway and increased cell apoptosis in a TP53 mutation‐independent manner. In vivo analysis also revealed knockdown of TSPAN31 suppressed tumor progression. In addition, knockdown of TSPAN31 improved chemosensitivity to cisplatin through the suppression of ABCC2. These findings suggest that TSPAN31 plays a crucial role in tumor‐malignant potential through overexpression, highlighting its utility as a prognostic factor and a potential therapeutic target in GC.
Semisynthetic triterpenes led to the generation of selective antitrypanosomal lead compounds
Authors: Guilhon‐Simplicio Fernanda , Serrão Carlos Klinger Rodrigues , Pinto Ana Cristina da Silva , Pacheco Paulo Anastácio Furtado , Faria Robson Xavier , da Rocha David Rodrigues , Ferreira Vitor Francisco , Pereira‐Junior Raimundo Carlos , Matheeussen An , Baán Adrienn , Kiekens Filip , de Meneses Pereira Maria , Lima Emerson Silva , Winter Hans De , Cos Paul
Published: March 2022

Triterpenes α,β‐amyrin are naturally occurring molecules that can serve as building blocks for synthesizing new chemical entities. This study synthesized acyl, carboxyesther, NSAID, and nitrogenous derivatives and evaluated their antimicrobial activity. A cyclodextrin complexation method was developed to improve the solubility of the derivatives. Of the 17 derivatives tested, five exhibited activity against Trypanosoma cruzi, T. brucei, Leishmania infantum, Candida albicans, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. The 9a/9b mixture showed weak activity against the parasites (IC50 24.45–40.32 μM). However, it showed no activity for the other microorganisms. Derivatives 14a/14b exhibited potent activity against T. cruzi (IC50 2.0 nM) in this tested concentration did not show activity to the other microorganisms and were not cytotoxic. Derivatives 15a/15b and 16a/16b demonstrated relevant activity against the parasites (IC50 2.24–5.44 μM), but were also cytotoxic. Derivatives 17a/17b showed low activity against the tested parasites (IC50 21.70–22.79 μM), but they were selective since they did not show activity against other microorganisms. In docking studies, in general, all derivatives showed complementarity with the CYP51 binding site of the trypanosomatid mainly by hydrophobic interactions; thus, it is not conclusive that the molecules act by inhibiting this enzyme. Our results showed that triterpenes derivatives with antitrypanosomal activity could be synthesized by an inexpensive and rapid method.
Dental implant failure rates in patients with self‐reported allergy to penicillin
Authors: Zahra Bagheri , Nicholas Barrese , Geoffrey Rubinshtein , Dina Zahedi , Janal Malvin N. , Stuart Froum
Published: March 2022

Background

In a number of previous studies, patients with reported penicillin allergies have been documented to experience higher rates of dental implant failure than those who had not reported this allergy. The authors of this study aimed to determine whether an increased risk of implant failure is associated with patient‐reported penicillin allergy and which antibiotic was administered.

Methods and Materials

A retrospective study was conducted through chart review of patients who received dental implants at the New York University College of Dentistry. Participants were eligible if they received one or more dental implants at the College and provided at least 1 year of follow‐up data.

Results

The overall implant failure rate was 12.9%. The failure rate in patients who reported no allergy to penicillin and took amoxicillin was 8.4%, while the failure rate in the allergy‐reporting group was 17.1% (adjusted OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.44–3.44). The failure rate in allergy‐reporting patients who took Clindamycin was also higher than in those who took amoxicillin (19.9%; adjusted OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.77–4.47) or any antibiotic other than amoxicillin (20.9%; adjusted OR = 2.77, 95% CI = 1.77–4.32).

Conclusions

Significant findings included a lower implant failure rate in patients taking amoxicillin than in patients taking other antibiotics. There was a significant increase in early implant failure in allergy reporting patients.
Role of hydrogen sulfide in subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Lu Dengfeng , Wang Lingling , Liu Guangjie , Wang Shixin , Wang Yi , Wu Yu , Wang Jing , Sun Xiaoou
Published: March 2022

Subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a common acute and severe disease worldwide, which imposes a heavy burden on families and society. However, the current therapeutic strategies for SAH are unsatisfactory. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), as the third gas signaling molecule after carbon monoxide and nitric oxide, has been widely studied recently. There is growing evidence that H2S has a promising future in the treatment of central nervous system diseases. In this review, we focus on the effects of H2S in experimental SAH and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. We demonstrate that H2S has neuroprotective effects and significantly reduces secondary damage caused by SAH via antioxidant, antiinflammatory, and antiapoptosis mechanisms, and by alleviating cerebral edema and vasospasm. Based on these findings, we believe that H2S has great potential in the treatment of SAH and warrants further study to promote its early clinical application.
Computer‐aided diagnosis of cataract severity using retinal fundus images and deep learning
Authors: Yadav Jay Kant Pratap Singh , Yadav Sunita
Published: March 2022

Cataracts are lenticular opacities that can appear in different parts of the lens in the eye and are a leading cause of blindness globally. Accurate detection and early‐stage diagnosis can prevent the cataract and improve the quality of life for cataract patients. However, clinical cataract detection and grading require the expertise of trained eye specialists, which may impede everyone's early intervention due to the underlying expenses. This article proposed a computer aid diagnosis method for cataract detection, which also grades the severity of cataracts from fundus retinal images such as normal, mild, moderate, and severe. The proposed method uses a hybrid approach in which various pre‐trained convolutional neural networks (AlexNet, VGGNet, ResNet) with transfer learning are used to extract features. These feature vectors of each network individually and in the fused form are applied on the support vector machine classifiers for 4‐stage cataract classification. This architecture also takes advantage of ensemble learning by applying a majority voting scheme on the predictions of these SVM classifiers. The fundus cataract images are obtained from several open‐access datasets and arranged into 4‐classes with the assistance of an eye specialist. Since all the collected images are not suitable for diagnosis, an image quality selection module is included with this method to determine the quality of fundus images. The proposed method achieved 96.25% 4‐class classification accuracy. According to the experimental results, the proposed method is effective for cataract classification and outperforms conventional methods.
The importance of including phenology when modelling species ecological niche
Authors: Ponti Raquel , Sannolo Marco
Published: March 2022

Species distribution models have grown in complexity by incorporating fine‐scale variables, including data on microclimate, physiology and species interactions. Recent studies have acknowledged the importance of the spatial scale by including higher resolution maps and more complex climatic variables. However, models rarely consider the consequences of including data related to time. Indeed, species phenology – and potential shifts in phenology due, for example, to climate change – is potentially one of the most neglected aspects of ecological modelling. We present a literature review of relevant phenological aspects at different temporal scales and across several taxa. Such elements should be considered to define better the environmental niche and project present, future and past distribution models. We considered the available studies on plants, insects, reptiles, birds and mammals to evaluate how they dealt with the phenology of the investigated species, as well as the phenology of other resources and interacting species, to infer present, past and future projections. Here we focus on four main phenological aspects that, if not considered, may easily bias any projection, namely: 1) phenology can be accompanied by a shift in distribution within the year (e.g. migratory species); 2) activity may be restricted to a portion of the year (e.g. most ectotherms from temperate climates); 3) survival and reproduction success may depend on the synchrony with other species phenology (e.g. plants–pollinators interactions); 4) changes in climatic conditions can lead to shifts in phenology (e.g. anticipated or delayed blooms or changes in migration timing). In this review, we show how neglecting such factors may quickly lead to project a biased distribution. Finally, we provide a guide on evaluating whether the case study may be affected by such factors and what actions may improve the models.
A recent update on small‐molecule kinase inhibitors for targeted cancer therapy and their therapeutic insights from mass spectrometry‐based proteomic analysis
Authors: Lee Pey Yee , Yeoh Yeelon , Low Teck Yew
Published: March 2022

Kinases are key regulatory signalling proteins governing numerous essential biological processes and cellular functions. Dysregulation of many protein kinases is associated with cancer initiation and progression. Given their crucial roles, there has been increasing interest in harnessing kinases as prospective drug targets for cancer. In recent decades, numerous small‐molecule kinase inhibitors have been developed and revolutionized the cancer treatment landscape. Despite their great potential, challenges remain in developing highly selective and effective kinase inhibitors, with toxicity and resistance issues frequently arising. In this review, we first provide an overview of the role of kinases in carcinogenesis and describe the current progress with small‐molecule kinase inhibitors that have been approved for clinical use. We then discuss the application of mass spectrometry (MS)‐based proteomics strategies to help in the design of kinase inhibitors. Finally, we discuss the challenges and outlook concerning MS‐based proteomics techniques for kinase drug research.
A comparative study of N‐hydroxylating flavoprotein monooxygenases reveals differences in kinetics and cofactor binding
Authors: Ernst Simon , Mährlein Almuth , Ritzmann Niklas H. , Drees Steffen L. , Fetzner Susanne
Published: March 2022

Many natural products comprise N‐O containing functional groups with crucial roles for biological activity. Their enzymatic formation is predominantly achieved by oxidation of an amine to form a hydroxylamine, which enables further functionalization. N‐hydroxylation by flavin‐dependent enzymes has so far been attributed to a distinct group of flavoprotein monooxygenases (FPMOs) containing two dinucleotide binding domains. Here, we present three flavoprotein N‐hydroxylases that exhibit a glutathione reductase 2 (GR2)‐type topology with only one nucleotide binding domain, which belong to a distinct phylogenetic branch within the GR2‐fold FPMOs. In addition to PqsL of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which catalyses the N‐hydroxylation of a primary aromatic amine during biosynthesis of 2‐alkyl‐4‐hydroxyquinoline N‐oxide respiratory chain inhibitors, we analysed isofunctional orthologs from Burkholderia thailandensis (HmqL) and Chryseobacterium nematophagum (PqsLCn). Pre‐steady‐state kinetics revealed that the oxidative half‐reaction of all three enzymes is highly efficient despite the soft nucleophile substrate. Ligand binding studies indicated that HmqL and PqsLCn show displacement of the oxidized flavin cofactor from the active site by the organic substrate, which likely abolishes the substrate inhibition observed in PqsL. Despite mechanistic heterogeneity, the investigated monooxygenases in principle follow the catalytic mechanism of GR2‐fold FPMOs and thus differ from previously described N‐hydroxylating enzymes. The discovery of this yet unrecognized family of flavoprotein N‐hydroxylases expands the current knowledge on the catalytic repertoire of GR2‐type FPMOs and provides a basis for the discovery of other nitrogen functionalizing reactions.
Bridge to the future: Important lessons from 20 years of ecosystem observations made by the OzFlux network
Authors: Beringer Jason , Moore Caitlin E. , Cleverly Jamie , Campbell David I. , Cleugh Helen , De Kauwe Martin G. , Kirschbaum Miko U. F. , Griebel Anne , Grover Sam , Huete Alfredo , Hutley Lindsay B. , Laubach Johannes , Van Niel Tom , Arndt Stefan K. , Bennett Alison C. , Cernusak Lucas A. , Eamus Derek , Ewenz Cacilia M. , Goodrich Jordan P. , Jiang Mingkai , Hinko‐Najera Nina , Isaac Peter , Hobeichi Sanaa , Knauer Jürgen , Koerber Georgia R. , Liddell Michael , Ma Xuanlong , Macfarlane Craig , McHugh Ian D. , Medlyn Belinda E. , Meyer Wayne S. , Norton Alexander J. , Owens Jyoteshna , Pitman Andy , Pendall Elise , Prober Suzanne M. , Ray Ram L. , Restrepo‐Coupe Natalia , Rifai Sami W. , Rowlings David , Schipper Louis , Silberstein Richard P. , Teckentrup Lina , Thompson Sally E. , Ukkola Anna M. , Wall Aaron , Wang Ying‐Ping , Wardlaw Tim J. , Woodgate William
Published: March 2022

In 2020, the Australian and New Zealand flux research and monitoring network, OzFlux, celebrated its 20th anniversary by reflecting on the lessons learned through two decades of ecosystem studies on global change biology. OzFlux is a network not only for ecosystem researchers, but also for those ‘next users’ of the knowledge, information and data that such networks provide. Here, we focus on eight lessons across topics of climate change and variability, disturbance and resilience, drought and heat stress and synergies with remote sensing and modelling. In distilling the key lessons learned, we also identify where further research is needed to fill knowledge gaps and improve the utility and relevance of the outputs from OzFlux. Extreme climate variability across Australia and New Zealand (droughts and flooding rains) provides a natural laboratory for a global understanding of ecosystems in this time of accelerating climate change. As evidence of worsening global fire risk emerges, the natural ability of these ecosystems to recover from disturbances, such as fire and cyclones, provides lessons on adaptation and resilience to disturbance. Drought and heatwaves are common occurrences across large parts of the region and can tip an ecosystem's carbon budget from a net CO2 sink to a net CO2 source. Despite such responses to stress, ecosystems at OzFlux sites show their resilience to climate variability by rapidly pivoting back to a strong carbon sink upon the return of favourable conditions. Located in under‐represented areas, OzFlux data have the potential for reducing uncertainties in global remote sensing products, and these data provide several opportunities to develop new theories and improve our ecosystem models. The accumulated impacts of these lessons over the last 20 years highlights the value of long‐term flux observations for natural and managed systems. A future vision for OzFlux includes ongoing and newly developed synergies with ecophysiologists, ecologists, geologists, remote sensors and modellers.
Chemical and Isotopic Evaluation of a Microsampling Method using Laser Ablation and Membrane Filter
Authors: Masuda Yuki , Yokoyama Tetsuya , Okabayashi Satoki , Ishikawa Akira , Iwamori Hikaru
Published: March 2022

Microscale isotopic measurements in geological materials are becoming of significant importance in geochemistry. This study evaluated the potential of a new microsampling method called laser ablation coupled with filter (LAF) for precise isotopic measurements of small‐sized geological materials, compared with conventional micromilling techniques. We optimised the system to maximise the sample collection rate and minimise the extent of the contamination. Isotope ratios (87Sr/86Sr, 142Nd/144Nd, 143Nd/144Nd, 206Pb/204Pb, 207Pb/204Pb and 208Pb/204Pb) of the glass reference material NIST SRM 610 collected using LAF were measured by thermal ionisation mass spectrometry, and no isotopic fractionation or blank effect was observed. This indicates that LAF can be applied for high‐precision isotope ratio measurement of these elements. Considering the total procedural blanks in LAF sampling, the minimum amounts required for high‐precision isotope measurement were 50, 2 and 20 ng for Sr, Nd and Pb, respectively. The LAF method has advantages over the conventional method. It also causes less damage in the test sample’s depth direction and can be applied to samples with complex shapes. It is expected therefore that the LAF sampling method will be applied to geology and other research fields that require microsampling.
Cluster headache pathophysiology: What we have learned from advanced neuroimaging
Authors: Silvestro Marcello , Tessitore Alessandro , Orologio Ilaria , Battista Giorgia , Siciliano Mattia , Tedeschi Gioacchino , Russo Antonio
Published: March 2022

Background

Although remarkable progress has been achieved in understanding cluster headache (CH) pathophysiology, there are still several gaps about the mechanisms through which independent subcortical and cortical brain structures interact with each other. These gaps could be partially elucidated by structural and functional advanced neuroimaging investigations.

Objective

Although we are aware that substantial achievements have come from preclinical, neurophysiological, and biochemical experiments, the present narrative review aims to summarize the most significant findings from structural, microstructural, and functional neuroimaging investigations, as well as the consequent progresses in understanding CH pathophysiological mechanisms, to achieve a comprehensive and unifying model.

Results

Advanced neuroimaging techniques have contributed to overcoming the peripheral hypothesis that CH is of cavernous sinus pathology, in transitioning from the pure vascular hypothesis to a more comprehensive trigeminovascular model, and, above all, in clarifying the role of the hypothalamus and its connections in the genesis of CH.

Conclusion

Altogether, neuroimaging findings strongly suggest that, beyond the theoretical model of the “pain matrix,” the model of the “neurolimbic pain network” that is accepted in migraine research could also be extended to CH. Indeed, although the hypothalamus’ role is undeniable, the genesis of CH attacks is complex and seems to not be just the result of a single “generator.” Cortical‐hypothalamic‐brainstem functional interconnections that can switch between out‐of‐bout and in‐bout periods, igniting the trigeminovascular system (probably by means of top‐down mechanisms) and the consensual trigeminal autonomic reflexes, may represent the “neuronal background” of CH.
Commandment, commencement and restorative justice
Authors: Pavlich George
Published: March 2022

Early restorative justice archives challenged state criminalisation through three basic pledges – diversion, social transformation, and decolonisation – thereby inaugurating a movement against repressive state criminalisation and announcing a new paradigm of justice. Returning to that movement's beginning, this article shows how its global successes were secured through intimate ties with state justice that diluted its early pledges. Highlighting oft‐overlooked insights from legal pluralism, it calls for new articulations between semi‐autonomous justice fields to revitalise, and not simply recover, restorative foundations. Forging links with diverse social fields, and engaging a politics of accusation, restorative justice could recraft lenses that bring harm‐producing social assemblies into focus.
Improving room temperature negative thermal expansion performance of Fe2‐xScx(MoO4)3
Authors: Zhang Zhiping , Wang Yang , Wang Wei , Liu Hongfei
Published: March 2022

Negative thermal expansion (NTE) performance of Fe2(MoO4)3 is only found in a high‐temperature range due to its monoclinic‐to‐orthorhombic (M‐O) phase transformation temperature (PTT) at 503.5°C. To stabilize the orthorhombic phase of Fe2(MoO4)3 at room temperature, a series of Fe2‐xScx(MoO4)3 (0≤x≤1.5) (abbreviated as F2‐xSxM) were fabricated via solid‐state reaction. Results indicate that the M‐O PTT of Fe2(MoO4)3 is successfully reduced from 503.5°C to 34.5°C by A‐site cation substitution of Sc3+. The regulation mechanism is considered to be the decrease in electronegativity of (Fe2‐xScx)6+ in F2‐xSxM. Both variable temperature X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and thermal mechanical analysis (TMA) analysis results indicate that F0.5S1.5 M exhibits anisotropic NTE in 100–700°C. The results indicate that it can effectively improve the densification of Sc‐substituted F0.5S1.5 M ceramics by two‐step calcination process. Furthermore, higher second‐step calcination temperature is beneficial for the formation of single‐phased orthorhombic F0.5S1.5 M. The NTE response temperature range of F0.5S1.5 M ceramics second‐step sintered at 1000°C is broadened to 30–600°C, and the corresponding coefficient of thermal expansion is ‐5.74 × 10−6°C−1. The ease in the proposed design and preparation method makes NTE F0.5S1.5 M potential for a wide range of applications in precision mechanical, electronic, optical, and communication instruments.
Urban governance of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan: An Urban political sociological approach to the case of Osaka
Authors: Maruyama Masao
Published: March 2022

In this article, we first review current Japanese urban and regional sociological literature on the COVID‐19 pandemic. Some empirical studies of the current conditions, challenges, and difficulties faced by urban communities with the pandemic have loomed large. Although urban governance of infectious disease control has been generally an important research topic in urban studies, there is limited research on this aspect, particularly in Japan. Then, we briefly examine the urban governance of the pandemic in Japan, with a focus on the case of Osaka. Specifically, by analyzing the meeting minutes of Osaka Prefectural Government's countermeasure headquarters, we shed light on what issues were mainly dealt with and what main organizational actors were involved. The results indicate that, in addition to the administrative and political collaboration between central, prefectural, and municipal governments, the involvement of industrial and professional organizations (e.g., medical and economic associations) is particularly salient. This is because the governmental sector in Japan lacks a strong legal framework and a policy implementation capacity for infectious disease control. Consequently, it has requested (through intermediary associations) that residents, businesses, and hospitals cooperate with the government to control the spread of the virus. With regard to the characteristics of the Japanese urban governance of the pandemic, more comparative research between cities and regions in the country and those in other countries will be one of the important issues for future Japanese urban and regional sociology.
Output fluctuations and portfolio flows to emerging economies: The role of monetary uncertainty
Authors: Trung Nguyen Ba
Published: March 2022

This paper examines the role of monetary‐policy uncertainty (MPU) in driving business cycles in emerging economies. We employ a Bayesian vector autoregression model with stochastic volatility as the mean for different emerging economies. We find that MPU works as a crucial driver of business cycles in emerging economies. First, we show that an MPU shock can trigger instability in emerging economies by provoking risk/volatility in both financial and exchange‐rate markets. Second, an MPU shock can lead to a decline in both output growth and capital inflows in emerging economies. Our empirical results suggest that the central banks of emerging economies should attempt to improve transparency in their monetary policy‐making by increasing the effectiveness of public communication and forward guidance.
Gelling behavior of MgAl2O4 slurries with a common dispersant
Authors: Liu Mengwei , Zhao Jin , Shimai Shunzo , Han Dan , Zhang Jian , Wang Shiwei
Published: March 2022

MgAl2O4 transparent ceramics were shaped by a commonly used polyacrylic acid (PAA), which acted as both dispersant and gelling agent. The spinel slurries were prepared by ball‐milling MgAl2O4 powder, PAA, and water in an attrition mill. The gelling of slurries happened at room temperature in air atmosphere without any other organic additive. The gelling mechanism was the formation of chelates between Mg2+ and carboxyl groups (‐COO−) of PAA. The frequency‐based testing method was applied to investigate the gelling process of the as‐prepared slurry. In addition, a novel in situ characterization method based on a modified indentation testing was invented to better understand the strengthening of the wet green body with time and to guide when demolding could be carried out. After sintering, transparent MgAl2O4 ceramics with high in‐line transmittance were resulted.
Multi‐level predictors of depression symptoms in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) study
Authors: Ho Tiffany C. , Shah Rutvik , Mishra Jyoti , May April C. , Tapert Susan F.
Published: March 2022

Background

While identifying risk factors for adolescent depression is critical for early prevention and intervention, most studies have sought to understand the role of isolated factors rather than across a broad set of factors. Here, we sought to examine multi‐level factors that maximize the prediction of depression symptoms in US children participating in the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development (ABCD) study.

Methods

A total of 7,995 participants from ABCD (version 3.0 release) provided complete data at baseline and 1‐year follow‐up data. Depression symptoms were measured with the Child Behavior Checklist. Predictive features included child demographic, environmental, and structural and resting‐state fMRI variables, parental depression history and demographic characteristics. We used linear (elastic net regression, EN) and non‐linear (gradient‐boosted trees, GBT) predictive models to identify which set of features maximized prediction of depression symptoms at baseline and, separately, at 1‐year follow‐up.

Results

Both linear and non‐linear models achieved comparable results for predicting baseline (EN: MAE = 3.757; R2 = 0.156; GBT: MAE = 3.761; R2 = 0.147) and 1‐year follow‐up (EN: MAE = 4.255; R2 = 0.103; GBT: MAE = 4.262; R2 = 0.089) depression. Parental history of depression, greater family conflict, and shorter child sleep duration were among the top predictors of concurrent and future child depression symptoms across both models. Although resting‐state fMRI features were relatively weaker predictors, functional connectivity of the caudate was consistently the strongest neural feature associated with depression symptoms at both timepoints.

Conclusions

Consistent with prior research, parental mental health, family environment, and child sleep quality are important risk factors for youth depression. Functional connectivity of the caudate is a relatively weaker predictor of depression symptoms but may represent a biomarker for depression risk.
In vitro characterization and clinical evaluation of skin hydration by two formulations mimicking the skin’s natural components
Authors: Jacques C. , Rattier S. , Bianchi P. , Angerer T.B. , Frache G. , Cattuzzato L. , Perrin L. , Villaret A. , Duran V. , Noharet J. , Rouquier A. , Bessou‐Touya S. , Bidan C. , Duplan H.
Published: March 2022

Background

We have developed innovative base formulations that were designed to mimic the skin with respect to its components and galenic structure. Components include water, proteins, lipids, sugars and minerals.

Objectives

We characterized formulations and their skin penetration using in vitro methods and evaluated their impact on skin hydration in a clinical trial.

Methods

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging and X‐ray diffraction were used to analyse formulations as well as formulation impact on the stratum corneum (SC) structure. Mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) was used to compare formulation ingredients with SC components and to detect their distribution in the skin. Clinical studies were performed to confirm effects on skin hydration and investigate potential adverse skin effects (irritation and sensitization).

Results

SEM and X‐ray diffraction of the formulations showed that lipids were organized in sheets similar to SC lipids. MSI demonstrated similarities between formulation components and skin constituents, as well as a good penetration into the skin. The formulations did not modify the lamellar organization of the SC lipids, but they increased the relative proportion of the crystallized lipids and some of the amorphous lipids. In in vivo studies, a high level of hydration was maintained over 24 h after application with an intense and ‘very good hydration’. Both formulations were shown to be non‐(photo)sensitizers with excellent tolerance. Sensorial evaluation indicated the formulations were not oily or sticky and maintained the skin's suppleness over time. Formulations had a ‘nude skin’ touch and created a natural protective film.

Conclusions

The two formulations were well‐tolerated and increased skin hydration in clinical subjects, an effect that could contribute to the alleviation of sensitive skin. The formulations were shown to resemble the lipid organization of the stratum corneum, as well as penetrate the skin without disrupting the lipid lamella organization.
Natural component plumbagin as a potential antibacterial agent againstStreptococcus agalactiaeinfection
Authors: Huang Ai‐Guo , Su Lin‐Jun , He Wei‐Hao , Zhang Fa‐Li , Wei Chao‐Shuai , Wang Ying‐Hui
Published: March 2022

Streptococcus agalactiae, also known as Group B Streptococcus (GBS), can infect humans, terrestrial animals and fish. The emergence of bacterial resistance ofS. agalactiaeto antibiotics leads to an urgent need of exploration of new antimicrobial agents. In the study, the antibacterial activity of natural component plumbagin (PLB) againstS. agalactiaewas investigated in vitro and in vivo. The results showed that the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of PLB againstS. agalactiaewas 8 mg/L. The growth curve assay revealed that PLB could inhibit the growth ofS. agalactiae. In addition, the time‐killing curve showed thatS. agalactiaewas killed almost completely by 2‐fold MIC of PLB within 12 h. Transmission electron microscopy results showed obvious severe morphological destruction and abnormal cells ofS. agalactiaeafter treated with PLB. The pathogenicity ofS. agalactiaeto zebrafish was significantly decreased after preincubation with PLB for 2 h in vitro, further indicating the bactericidal activity of PLB. Interestingly, PLB could killS. agalactiaewithout inducing resistance development. Furthermore, pretreatment and post‐treatment assays suggested that PLB also exhibited the antibacterial activity againstS. agalactiaeinfection in vivo by effectively reducing the bacterial load and improving the survival rate ofS. agalactiae‐infected zebrafish. In summary, PLB had potent antibacterial activity againstS. agalactiaein vitro and in vivo, and it could be an excellent antimicrobial candidate to prevent and controlS. agalactiaeinfection.
Storm surge contributions to flood hazards on Canada's Atlantic Coast
Authors: Provan Mitchel , Ferguson Sean , Murphy Enda
Published: March 2022

A numerical hydrodynamic model was used to simulate the generation and evolution of storm surges in Atlantic Canada in response to synoptic‐scale surface wind and atmospheric pressure fields. The modelling was conducted as part of a broader initiative to support community‐scale inundation modelling and coastal flood risk assessment for communities located in the Acadian Peninsula region of New Brunswick. The 44 largest storm surge events on record at a tide gauge proximate to the region of interest were simulated using the numerical model. Initially, a comparison between simulated storm surges and peak non‐tidal residuals from tide gauge records showed relatively poor agreement, producing an R2 value of 0.403. Model skill was improved by incorporating the influence of sea ice cover on air‐sea momentum transfer in the hydrodynamic model, and improved correlation with measured residuals was obtained by adding estimates of wave set‐up to the predicted storm surges, ultimately resulting in an R2 value of 0.803. The results of the simulations provided a basis for identifying distinct regional factors affecting storm surges and water level residuals and demonstrated conditions where wave set‐up and sea ice cover play an important role in contributing to extreme high water levels.
Geospatial analysis of Helicobacter pylori infection in South Australia: Should location influence eradication therapy?
Authors: Schubert Jonathon P , Woodman Richard J , Mangoni Arduino A , Rayner Christopher K , Warner Morgyn S , Roberts‐Thomson Ian C , Costello Samuel P , Bryant Robert V
Published: March 2022

Background and Aim

Rates of antimicrobial‐resistant Helicobacter pylori infection are rising globally; however, geospatial location and its interaction with risk factors for infection have not been closely examined.

Methods

Gastric biopsy specimens were collected to detect H. pylori infection at multiple centers in Adelaide, South Australia, between 1998 and 2017. The geospatial distribution of antibiotic‐resistant H. pylori in the Greater Adelaide region was plotted using choropleth maps. Moran's I was used to assess geospatial correlation, and multivariate linear regression (MLR) was used to examine associations between migration status, socioeconomic status, age, gender, and rates of H. pylori positivity and antibiotic resistance. Geographically weighted regression (GWR) was used to determine the extent to which the associations varied according to geospatial location.

Results

Of 20 108 biopsies across 136 postcodes within the Greater Adelaide region, 1901 (9.45%) were H. pylori positive. Of these, 797 (41.9%) displayed clarithromycin, tetracycline, metronidazole, or amoxicillin resistance. In MLR, migration status was associated with the rate of H. pylori positivity (β = 3.85% per 10% increase in a postcode's migrant population; P < 0.001). H. pylori positivity and resistance to any antibiotic were geospatially clustered (Moran's I = 0.571 and 0.280, respectively; P < 0.001 for both). In GWR, there was significant geospatial variation in the strength of the migrant association for both H. pylori positivity and antibiotic resistance.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the heterogeneous geospatial distribution of H. pylori positivity and antibiotic resistance, as well as its interaction with migrant status. Geographic location and migrant status are important factors to consider for H. pylori eradication therapy.
The time to benefit from intensive hypertensive control is now
Authors: Supiano Mark A.
Published: March 2022

This editorial comments on the article by Ho et al. in this issue.