Philip Doble

Characterisation of matrix-based polyatomic interference formation in laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry using dried micro-droplet ablation and its relevance for bioimaging

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1039/C6AY02545E

Abstract: Dried micro-droplets were used to characterise the formation of polyatomic interferences by LA-ICP-MS.

A qualitative exploration of fear of cancer recurrence in caregivers

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 08-05-2023

DOI: 10.1002/PON.6149

Abstract: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is one of the most common unmet needs for cancer patients and caregivers. Yet little is known about the potentially unique nature of caregiver FCR. Our research aimed to address this gap by qualitatively exploring the features and impact of caregiver FCR. Eighteen semi‐structured telephone interviews with cancer caregivers were conducted to explore the content and impact of caregiver fears and worries about cancer recurrence or progression. Data analysis used a Framework Approach. Qualitative analysis identified three themes (1) fear of the patient suffering, (2) the need to protect the patient from a recurrence and/or cancer‐related distress, and (3) caregiver's sense of unpreparedness and uncertainty. Underpinning these themes was an overarching sense of personal responsibility for the life of the patient. This overarching theme was identified as a key driver of caregivers' personal and patient‐centred fears. Our findings confirm the conceptual differences between patient and caregiver FCR. Future research must therefore acknowledge the unique experiences of caregivers and prioritise the development of empirically driven theoretical models, instruments, and interventions for caregiver FCR.

Three-dimensional atlas of iron, copper, and zinc in the mouse cerebrum and brainstem

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 10-04-2012

DOI: 10.1021/AC300374X

Abstract: Atlases depicting molecular and functional features of the brain are becoming an integral part of modern neuroscience. In this study we used laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) to quantitatively measure iron (Fe), copper (Cu), and zinc (Zn) levels in a serially sectioned C57BL/6 mouse brain (cerebrum and brainstem). Forty-six sections were analyzed in a single experiment of approximately 158 h in duration. We constructed a 46-plate reference atlas by aligning quantified images of metal distribution with corresponding coronal sections from the Allen Mouse Brain Reference Atlas. The 46 plates were also used to construct three-dimensional models of Fe, Cu, and Zn distribution. This atlas represents the first reconstruction of quantitative trace metal distribution through the brain by LA-ICPMS and will facilitate the study of trace metals in the brain and help to elucidate their role in neurobiology.

Age modulates the injury-induced metallomic profile in the brain

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1039/C6MT00260A

Abstract: The biological transition metals iron (Fe), copper (Cu) and zinc (Zn) are thought to contribute to the neuronal pathologies that occur following traumatic brain injury (TBI), and indeed our previously published work in young (3 month-old) mice clearly demonstrates a significant spatiotemporal modulation of metals following TBI. Of note, however, is the literature observation that there is both an apparent detrimental effect of aging on TBI outcomes and an alteration in metals and their various transporters with normal advancing age. Therefore, to determine whether there was an interaction between aging, metals and TBI, we have utilised laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry to examine the spatial and temporal distribution of Fe, Zn and Cu following an acute controlled cortical impact brain injury in aged (24 months) rodents. The relative abundance of metals in corresponding regions within the ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres as well as the hippoc us was assessed. Substantial region and time point specific alterations in Fe, Zn and Cu were identified immediately and up to 28 days post-TBI. The data from this follow-up study has also been compared to our previous data from young animals, and aged mice exhibit an appreciably enhanced and persistent elevation of all metals in every region surveyed, with in idual metal disparities at various time points observed post-injury. This may potentially contribute to the acceleration in the onset of cognitive decline and neurological disease that has been observed in the aged population following head trauma.

Age-related accumulation of toxic metals in the human locus ceruleus

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 19-09-2018

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0203627

Barium distributions in teeth reveal early-life dietary transitions in primates

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 22-05-2013

DOI: 10.1038/NATURE12169

Health literacy and cancer care coordination in Chinese migrant patients and their carers: A cross‐sectional survey

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-03-2019

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5050

Abstract: This study aimed to describe the levels of health literacy and experience of care coordination among Chinese migrant patients with cancer and their carers in Australia, and to examine factors associated with these. Patients' self-reported data were collected using the Health Literacy and Cancer Care Coordination questionnaires. We conducted multivariate linear regression analyses to investigate predictors of patients' health literacy and their care experience. Canonical correlation analysis was used to examine the relationship between patients' health literacy and their care experience. A total of 68 patients and eight carers participated in the survey. Patients and carers reported similar levels of health literacy, with the lowest scores being in the "Having sufficient information to manage health" and "Navigating the health system" subscales. Gender (P = 0.026, partial η Our findings reveal the health literacy and care coordination needs of Chinese migrant patients with cancer in Australia, especially those with lower educational attainment. Future efforts are necessary to enhance Chinese migrants' health literacy and establish an accessible and easy-to-navigate care environment.

Access to psychosocial support for people with brain tumor and family members: Healthcare professional perspectives

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-04-2023

DOI: 10.1002/PON.6142

Abstract: Ongoing access to psychosocial support is important to maintain the well‐being of people with brain tumor (PwBT) and their families yet, there is limited knowledge of psychosocial care access. This qualitative study aimed to develop an understanding of psychosocial support pathways specific to PwBT from the perspectives of Australian healthcare professionals. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 21 healthcare professionals working in hospital and community services supporting PwBT and their family members. Transcribed interviews were coded and analyzed thematically. The three major themes identified were: (1) Challenges in fitting people into the care system within existing pathways (2) Benefits of longer‐term care coordination and interdisciplinary connections and (3) Brain tumor affects the whole family. Despite established psychosocial care pathways, service access varied and lacked continuity for in iduals with lower‐grade glioma and benign tumors across the illness trajectory. Healthcare professionals recognize the need for improved access to care coordination and multidisciplinary psychosocial care tailored to the varying needs of PwBT and their families.

Failure to remove true sentinel nodes can cause failure of the sentinel node biopsy technique: Evidence from antimony concentrations in false-negative sentinel nodes from melanoma patients

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 03-2004

DOI: 10.1245/ASO.2004.11.912

Visualising mouse neuroanatomy and function by metal distribution using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry imaging

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5SC02231B

Abstract: Studying the neuroanatomy of the mouse brain using imaging mass spectrometry and chemometric analysis.

Optimization of chemometric approaches for the extraction of isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside from Calendula officinalis L.

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 06-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.JPBA.2016.04.017

Abstract: The application of Design of Experiments (DoE) to the determination of optimum conditions for an extraction process relies on the correct selection of mathematical models. The linear model is the one typically used however, in some cases it does not always have superior performance, ignoring the real nature of the data and its appropriate descriptive model. In order to evaluate the extraction efficiency of isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside from flowers of Calendula officinalis L. a multivariate factorial analysis was used. Simulations were conducted using linear, quadratic, full cubic and special cubic models. A Simplex-Centroid design was chosen as it delivered greater precision with only minor errors versus other models tested. Analyses were performed by capillary zone electrophoresis using sodium tetraborate buffer (40mmolL(-1), pH 9.4) containing 10% methanol. The detection was linear over a range of 8.0-50.0mgL(-1) (r(2)=0.996), and the limits of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) for isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside were 3.44mgL(-1) and 11.47mgL(-1), respectively. The full cubic model showed the best extraction results, with an error of 3.40% compared to analysis of variance, and a determination coefficient of 0.974. The difference between the responses at the reference point, calculated by the model, and the experimental response, varies around 2.72% for full cubic model. Comparison of the four models showed the full cubic model was the most appropriate one, allowing greater efficiency in the extraction of isorhamnetin-3-O-rutinoside. Selection of the model made it possible to obtain a 60% increase in sensitivity compared to the linear model.

Analysis of Ecstasy Tablets Using Capillary Electrophoresis with Capacitively Coupled Contactless Conductivity Detection

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 21-07-2014

DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12573

Abstract: A method for the identification of 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine (MDMA) and meta-chlorophenylpiperazine (mCPP) was developed employing capillary electrophoresis (CE) with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C(4) D). S le extraction, separation, and detection of "Ecstasy" tablets were performed in <10 min without s le derivatization. The separation electrolyte was 20 mm TAPS/Lithium, pH 8.7. Average minimal detectable amounts for MDMA and mCPP were 0.04 mg/tablet, several orders of magnitude lower than the minimum amount encountered in a tablet. Seven different Ecstasy tablets seized in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, were analyzed by CE-C(4) D and compared against routine gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The CE method demonstrated sufficient selectivity to discriminate the two target drugs, MDMA and mCPP, from the other drugs present in seizures, namely hepramone, fenproporex, caffeine, lidocaine, and cocaine. Separation was performed in <90 sec. The advantages of using C(4) D instead of traditional CE-UV methods for in-field analysis are also discussed.

Separation of niobium(V) and tantalum(V) as ternary complexes with citrate and metallochromic ligands by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2001

DOI: 10.1016/S0003-2670(01)00833-9

The development of a stabbing machine for forensic textile damage analysis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2017.02.013

Abstract: This article describes the development of a horizontal stabbing machine with an interchangeable knife holder to simulate stab events. The machine consists of a motorised arm with a pneumatic system designed to deliver 60 unique stabbing positions. The mechanics were robust and the positioning system highly reproducible with standard deviations of less than 1.0mm in the x-axis and 2.3mm in the y-axis for a given stab position. The force of the instrument may be varied by the operator to a maximum of approximately 221N. The suitability of the instrument for simulating stab events was evaluated by measuring the severance length and textile damage from stab delivered from four different knives and nine penetrating angles.

Tractography dissection variability: What happens when 42 groups dissect 14 white matter bundles on the same dataset?

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 11-2021

DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUROIMAGE.2021.118502

Calibration and Field Application of Chemcatcher® Passive Samplers for Detecting Amitrole Residues in Agricultural Drain Waters

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-03-2013

DOI: 10.1007/S00128-013-0983-X

Abstract: A passive s ler device suitable for monitoring of residues of the hydrophilic ionic herbicide amitrole in irrigation waterways was developed. Uptake of amitrole on styrene inylbenzene-reverse phase sulfonated Empore™ disks was linear and proportional to its water concentration over the range of 1-10 μg/L with a s ling rate of 23.1 mL/day under laboratory flow-through conditions. Performance of the s ler was evaluated by deployment in an agricultural irrigation drain for 10 days. The amount of amitrole adsorbed by the passive s lers compared well with the cumulative mean water concentrations calculated from daily spot s lings of the drain water.

A research agenda for fear of cancer recurrence: A Delphi study conducted in Australia

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-03-2019

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5048

Abstract: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is common, debilitating, and costly to the health system. While there has been a rising trajectory in FCR-related research, there remain many unanswered questions. A research agenda is required to clarify priorities and ensure that research dollars and effort are expended wisely. This study aimed to elicit research topics and priorities from clinical and academic experts in FCR. Phase 1 consisted of elicitation by survey of prioritised FCR research topics from 20 members of the Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Research Group (PoCoG) FCR special interest group, followed by a focus group discussion with 28 clinicians, researchers, and cancer survivors, at which survey results were presented and further reflection was encouraged. This resulted in 28 research topics that were then subjected to a Delphi process to establish consensus (phase 2). Thirty-one participants completed round 1 of the Delphi process and 23 round 2, after which satisfactory consensus was reached. Five broad areas of research were identified as priorities. In rank order, they were (1) intervention models (2) definition, predictors, and outcomes of FCR (3) detection and screening (4) training for health professionals and (5) reaching specific populations. It is hoped that the current findings will guide FCR researchers towards clinically relevant, significant research that will move the field forward. Experts nominated intervention research as the top priority, specifically exploring optimal formats of delivery including stepped care and blended models incorporating online or phone elements to increase accessibility.

Elemental bio-imaging of trace elements in teeth using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.JDENT.2011.03.004

Abstract: In this study we present the application of a novel laboratory method that employs laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) to construct two-dimensional maps of trace elements in teeth. Teeth were sectioned longitudinally, embedded in resin and polished to a smooth surface. Data were generated by laser ablating the entire sectioned tooth surface. Elemental images were constructed using custom-built software. Quantified images of (66)Zn, (88)Sr, (111)Cd and (208)Pb, with a spatial resolution of 30 μm(2), were generated from three teeth. Concentrations were determined by single-point calibration against NIST SRM 1486 (bone meal). Zn and Sr concentrations were determined in the μg g(-1) range and Cd and Pb in the ng g(-1) range. Concentrations of Pb, Zn and Cd were higher in dentine particularly in regions adjacent the pulp. Elemental bio-imaging employing LA-ICP-MS is a novel method for constructing μm-scale maps of trace elements in teeth. This simple imaging method displays the heterogeneity of trace elements throughout the tooth structure that correspond to specific structural and developmental features of teeth. As a preliminary study, this work demonstrates the capabilities of LA-ICP-MS imaging in dental research.

A Delphi‐based approach to developing the contents of an online resource, Care Assist, for male caregivers of women with breast cancer

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 23-05-2022

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5962

Abstract: Informal male caregivers of women with breast cancer (BC) have significant psychological, emotional, and social burdens that are inadequately addressed by current face‐to‐face interventions. Online interventions overcome barriers that limit engagement with face‐to‐face interventions. This study aimed to develop the contents of Care Assist , an online supportive care resource for male caregivers of BC patients, through expert consensus. A Delphi study comprising two survey rounds and an expert consultation was conducted. In Round 1, experts in BC care rated the importance of 25 content items. In Round 2, they re‐rated content items that failed to reach consensus (i.e. 80% agreement) in Round 1 or were newly developed. Free‐text responses were also collected. During expert consultation, the resource was reviewed and revised for clarity. Iterative refinement followed all rounds. Quantitative data was analysed descriptively, and qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. Twenty‐two experts participated and reached consensus on 96% of items, with 217 comments provided on: (a) the perceived benefits of Care Assist to caregivers and care recipients, (b) recommendations of newly suggested content items, wording, and use of external links, and (c) concerns regarding information overload and need for tailoring. The expert consultation comments focused on clarifying scope, wording, and information tailoring. The rigorous Delphi process resulted in the content for a comprehensive online supportive care intervention for male caregivers. Information overload can be minimised through self‐identification of needs and utilisation of eHealth to personalise the resource for the heterogeneous male caregiver population.

Elemental imaging of leaves from the metal hyperaccumulating plant Noccaea caerulescens shows different spatial distribution of Ni, Zn and Cd

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5RA23953B

Abstract: Elemental imaging using laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was performed on whole leaves of the hyperaccumulating plant Noccaea caerulescens after treatments with either Ni, Zn or Cd.

Evaluation of the validity and screening performance of a revised single-item fear of cancer recurrence screening measure (FCR-1r)

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 30-04-2023

DOI: 10.1002/PON.6139

Abstract: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is highly prevalent among cancer survivors, but irregularly identified in practice. Single‐item FCR measures suitable for integration into broader psychosocial screening are needed. This study evaluated the validity of a revised version of the original FCR‐1 (FCR‐1r) and screening performance alongside the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System – Revised (ESAS‐r) anxiety item. The FCR‐1r was adapted from the FCR‐1 and modelled on the ESAS‐r. Associations between FCR‐1r and FCR Inventory‐Short Form (FCRI‐SF) scores determined concurrent validity. Relationships of FCR‐1r scores with variables related (e.g., anxiety, intrusive thoughts) and unrelated (e.g., employment/marital status) to FCR determined convergent and ergent validity respectively. A Receiver‐Operating Characteristic analysis examined screening performance and cut‐offs for the FCR‐1r and ESAS‐r anxiety item. 107 participants were recruited in two studies (Study 1, July‐October 2021, n = 54 Study 2: November 2021‐May 2022, n = 53). The FCR‐1r demonstrated concurrent validity against the FCRI‐SF ( r = 0.83, p 0.0001) and convergent validity versus the Generalised Anxiety Disorder‐7 ( r = 0.63, p 0.0001) and Impact of Event Scale‐Revised Intrusion subscale ( r = 0.55, p 0.0001). It did not correlate with unrelated variables (e.g., employment/marital status), indicating ergent validity. An FCR‐1r cut‐off ≥5/10 had 95% sensitivity and 77% specificity for detecting clinical FCR (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.91, 95% CI 0.85–0.97, p 0.0001) ESAS‐r anxiety cut‐off ≥4 had 91% sensitivity and 82% specificity (AUC = 0.87, 95% CI 0.77–0.98, p 0.0001). The FCR‐1r is a valid and accurate tool for FCR screening. Further evaluation of the screening performance of the FCR‐1r versus the ESAS‐r anxiety item in routine care is needed.

Design of background electrolytes for indirect detection of anions by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2000

DOI: 10.1016/S0165-9936(99)00181-8

A rapid and sensitive method for the identification of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol in oral fluid by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2011.01.045

Abstract: A fast and sensitive method was developed for detecting delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in oral fluid by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). The method is suitable for s les of small volume and low concentration. For method development and validation, neat oral fluid (200 μL) spiked with THC and d(3)-THC (internal standard) was extracted via liquid-liquid extraction (LLE). The LLE method had an extraction efficiency of 75% with no significant matrix effects observed in either diluted or neat oral fluid s les. LC was performed on a Zorbax Eclipse XDB-C18 Rapid Resolution HT column (2.1 mm × 50 mm, 1.8 μm particle size) with positive electrospray ionisation and selected reaction monitoring. The total run time was an efficient 3.5 min in isocratic elution mode. The limit of quantification was 1 ng/mL and the analysis was linear over the range of 1-500 ng/mL with a correlation coefficient of 0.9998. The imprecision (RSD) of the method was 13% and inaccuracy (MRE) was 4%. The method was subsequently applied to two neat oral fluid s les taken from a chronic cannabis smoker. It was also applied to buffer diluted residual oral fluid s les (n=48) collected using the Cozart RapiScan(®) system through the Roadside Drug Testing Program (RDTP) in NSW, Australia. A stability study was performed that revealed freezing or refrigerating resulted in comparable decreases in THC recovery from neat oral fluid at the end of two weeks of storage. Storage at room temperature even for one day invoked significant losses and is not recommended.

Barriers and facilitators to community‐based psycho‐oncology services: A qualitative study of health professionals’ attitudes to the feasibility and acceptability of a shared care model

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-07-2019

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5165

Abstract: Psychological therapies combined with medication are effective treatments for depression and anxiety in patients with cancer. However, the psycho-oncology workforce is insufficient to meet patient need and is hard to access outside of the major cities. To bridge this gap, innovative models of care are required. Implementation of a new model of care requires attention to the facilitators and barriers. The aim of this study was to explore stakeholders' attitudes to the feasibility and acceptability of a community-based, shared care model for the treatment of depression and anxiety. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with community-based clinical psychologists (n = 10), general practitioners (n = 6), and hospital-based psychologists working in psycho-oncology (n = 9). Framework analysis was conducted to identify key themes. All stakeholders perceived the model as feasible and acceptable. Potential barriers/facilitators to implementation were summarised under six key themes: (a) initiative, ownership, and autonomy (b) resources (c) pathway establishment (d) support (e) skill acquisition and (f) patient engagement. Facilitators included quality communication between health professionals across primary and tertiary care and appropriate education and support for community-based clinicians. This in-depth exploration of Australian health professionals' perceptions of the feasibility and acceptability of a community-based model of psycho-oncology care revealed that most clinicians were willing to adopt the proposed changes into practice. An RCT of a shared care intervention for depressed patients with cancer is needed.

Chiral analysis of methadone and its major metabolites (EDDP and EMDP) by liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 25-01-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.JCHROMB.2004.10.053

Abstract: Racemic methadone (MET) is administered to heroin users undergoing methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) in Australia. The enantiomers of methadone possess different pharmacological effects, and the enantioselective metabolism of methadone to its two major metabolites, 2-ethylidene-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) and 2-ethyl-5-methyl-3,3-diphenyl-1-pyrroline (EMDP) has been demonstrated. Therefore, a stereoselective method capable of quantifying methadone, EDDP and EMDP in biological s les could be of benefit in the monitoring of MMT patients. In particular, the analysis of hair s les would provide a means by which long-term monitoring of MMT patients could be achieved. To date, no HPLC method has been published for the simultaneous separation of the six enantiomers. A liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the chiral analysis of methadone, EDDP and EMDP was developed using an alpha-glycoprotein (AGP) stationary phase. The method development involved the utilisation of factorial analysis experimental designs and the application of artificial neural networks (ANNs) to model the chromatographic response surfaces. The optimal conditions were determined to be 20mM acetic acid: isopropanol (93:7, pH 7.4), with a flow rate of 0.9mL/min. The method was validated and subsequently applied to the analysis of 20 hair s les collected from MMT patients.

Elemental Bio-imaging of Thorium, Uranium, and Plutonium in Tissues from Occupationally Exposed Former Nuclear Workers

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 10-03-2010

DOI: 10.1021/AC902650W

Abstract: Internal exposure from naturally occurring radionuclides (including the inhaled long-lived actinides (232)Th and (238)U) is a component of the ubiquitous background radiation dose (National Council on Radiation Protection and Measurements. Ionizing radiation exposure of the population of the United States NCRP Report No. 160 NCRP: Bethesda, MD, 2009). It is of interest to compare the concentration distribution of these natural alpha-emitters in the lungs and respiratory lymph nodes with those resulting from occupational exposure, including exposure to anthropogenic plutonium and depleted and enriched uranium. This study examines the application of laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS) to quantifying and visualizing the mass distribution of uranium and thorium isotopes from both occupational and natural background exposure in human respiratory tissues and, for the first time, extends this application to the direct imaging of plutonium isotopes. Sections of lymphatic and lung tissues taken from deceased former nuclear workers with a known history of occupational exposure to specific actinide elements (uranium, plutonium, or americium) were analyzed by LA-ICPMS. Using a previously developed LA-ICPMS protocol for elemental bio-imaging of trace elements in human tissue and a new software tool, we generated images of thorium ((232)Th), uranium ((235)U and (238)U), and plutonium ((239)Pu and (240)Pu) mass distributions in sections of tissue. We used a laboratory-produced matrix-matched standard to quantify the (232)Th, (235)U, and (238)U concentrations. The plutonium isotopes (239)Pu and (240)Pu were detected by LA-ICPMS in 65 mum diameter localized regions of both a paratracheal lymph node and a s le of lung tissue from a person who was occupationally exposed to refractory plutonium (plutonium dioxide). The average (overall) (239)Pu concentration in the lymph node was 39.2 ng/g, measured by high purity germanium (HPGe) gamma-spectrometry (Lynch, T. P. Tolmachev, S. Y. James, A. C. Radiat. Prot. Dosim. 2009, 134, 94-101). Localized mass concentrations of thorium ((232)Th) and uranium ((238)U) in lymph node tissue from a person not occupationally exposed to these elements (chronic natural background inhalation exposure) ranged up to 400 and 375 ng/g, respectively. In lung s les of occupationally nonexposed to thorium and uranium workers, (232)Th and (238)U concentrations ranged up to 200 and 170 ng/g, respectively. In a person occupationally exposed to air-oxidized uranium metal (Adley, F. E. Gill, W. E. Scott, R. H. Study of atmospheric contaminiation in the melt plant buiding. HW-23352(Rev.) United States Atomic Energy Commission: Oakridge, TN, 1952, p 1-97), the maximum (235)U and (238)U isotopic mass concentrations in a lymph node, measured at higher resolution (with a 30 mum laser spot diameter), were 70 and 8500 ng/g, respectively. The ratio of these simultaneously measured mass concentrations signifies natural uranium. The current technique was not sufficiently sensitive, even with a 65 mum laser spot diameter, to detect (241)Am (at an overall tissue concentration of 0.024 ng/g, i.e., 3 Bq/g).

Optimisation of HPLC gradient separations using artificial neural networks (ANNs): Application to benzodiazepines in post-mortem samples

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2009

DOI: 10.1016/J.JCHROMB.2009.01.012

Abstract: Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were used in conjunction with an experimental design to optimise a gradient HPLC separation of nine benzodiazepines. Using the best performing ANN, the optimum conditions predicted were 25 mM formate buffer (pH 2.8), 10% MeOH, acetonitrile (ACN) gradient 0-15 min, 6.5-48.5%. The error associated with the prediction of retention times and peak widths under these conditions was less than 5% for six of the nine analytes. The optimised method, with limits of detection (LODs) in the range of 0.0057-0.023 microg/mL and recoveries between 58% and 92%, was successfully applied to authentic post-mortem s les. This method represents a more flexible and convenient means for optimising gradient elution separations using ANNs than has been previously reported.

Buffered Chromate Electrolytes for Separation and Indirect Absorbance Detection of Inorganic Anions in Capillary Electrophoresis

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 1997

DOI: 10.1039/A706001G

Chiral separation of methadone, 2‐ethylidene‐ 1,5‐dimethyl‐3,3‐diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) and 2‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐3,3‐diphenyl‐1‐pyrroline (EMDP) by capillary electrophoresis using cyclodextrin derivativ

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 07-2003

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.200305418

Abstract: A stereoselective method was developed for the simultaneous determination of methadone and its two major metabolites, 2‐ethylidene‐1,5‐dimethyl‐3,3‐diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) and 2‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐3,3‐diphenyl‐1‐pyrroline (EMDP) by capillary electrophoresis. Five β‐cyclodextrin (βCD) background electrolyte (BGE) additives were evaluated for resolution efficiency. The conditions for baseline resolution of each of the three enantiomer pairs was determined to be 1 m M heptakis‐(2,6‐di‐ O‐ methyl)‐β‐cyclodextrin (DMβCD) in 100 m M phosphate at pH 2.6. This method represents the first successful method for the resolution of the six enantiomers associated with the metabolism of methadone. The utilisation of doubly coated capillaries in conjunction with βCD derivatives for a faster separation of the methadone‐related enantiomers is also reported. The coated capillaries were prepared using a polycation of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) (PDDAC) and a polyanion of dextran sulfate. Baseline resolution of the methadone enantiomers was achieved with a BGE of 8 m M (2‐hydroxy)propyl‐β‐cyclodextrin (HPβCD) in 100 m M phosphate at pH 2.6. The migration times for the stereoselective methadone separation were approximately 4 min, which represented a reduction by a factor of approximately three, compared to that attained using analogous conditions with the uncoated capillary.

High‐voltage power supplies to capillary and microchip electrophoresis

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-2012

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.201100490

Abstract: Over the past years, the development of capillary electrophoresis (CE) and microchip electrophoresis (ME) systems has grown due to instrumental simplicity and wide application. In both CE and ME, the application of a high voltage (HV) is a crucial step in the electrokinetic (EK) injection and separation processes. Particularly on ME devices, EK injection is often performed with three different modes: gated, pinched, and unpinched. In all these cases, different potential values may be applied to one or multiple channels to control the injection of small s le volumes as well as the separation process. For this reason, the construction of reliable HV power supplies (HVPS) is required. This review covers the advances of the development of commercial and laboratory-built HVPS for CE and ME. Moreover, it intends to be a guide for new developers of electrophoresis instrumentation.

LA-ICP-MS/MS improves limits of detection in elemental bioimaging of gadolinium deposition originating from MRI contrast agents in skin and brain tissues

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.JTEMB.2018.10.021

Abstract: A novel analytical method to detect the retention of gadolinium from contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in tissue s les of patients is presented. It is based on laser ablation - inductively coupled plasma - triple quadrupole - mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS/MS). Both Gd and P were monitored with a mass shift of +16, corresponding to mono-oxygenated species, as well as Zn, Ca, and Fe on-mass. This method resulted in a significantly reduced background and improved limits of detection not only for phosphorus, but also for gadolinium. These improvements were essential to perform elemental bioimaging with improved resolution of 5 μm x 5 μm, allowing the detection of small Gd deposits in fibrotic skin and brain tumour tissue with diameters of approximately 50 μm. Detailed analyses of these regions revealed that most Gd was accompanied with P and Ca, indicating co-precipitation.

Elemental bio-imaging using laser ablation-triple quadrupole-ICP-MS

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2016

DOI: 10.1039/C5JA00293A

Abstract: Elemental bio-imaging using the technological advances of ICP-QQQ-MS.

Metallobiology of 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine neurotoxicity

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1039/C2MT20164J

Abstract: 1-Methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) is a potent toxin used to selectively destroy dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and induce parkinsonism. MPTP is metabolised to the 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP(+)) in glia, after which it enters the neuron via the dopamine transporter and results in elevated levels of oxidative stress. The mechanism through which MPP(+) causes cell death is thought to involve redox-active metals, particularly iron (Fe). This review will examine how cellular metal metabolism is altered following MPTP insult, and how this relates to metal dyshomeostasis in idiopathic Parkinson's disease. This includes both cell damage arising from increased metal concentration, and how metal-binding proteins respond to MPTP-induced neurotoxicity. Implications for using MPTP as a model for human Parkinson's disease will be discussed in terms of cell metallobiology.

Pew2: Open-Source Imaging Software for Laser Ablation–Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectrometry

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 20-07-2021

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.1C02138

Screening of gunshot residues using desorption electrospray ionisation-mass spectrometry (DESI-MS)

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2012

DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2011.10.030

Abstract: Several studies have indicated that there are potential environmental sources of particles resembling inorganic primer found in gunshot residues (GSR) as a consequence examiners are reluctant to unambiguously assign the origin of inorganic particles. If organic gunshot residues (OGSR) were found in combination with inorganic particles, the possibility of environmental sources could be potentially eliminated, thereby significantly enhancing the strength of the evidence. Methods have been previously described whereby GSR specimens can be analysed for the presence of OGSR or inorganic GRS (IGSR). However, no methods have been reported that allow the analysis of both OGSR and IGSR on the same specimen. Described in this article is a direct method using desorption electrospray ionisation-mass spectrometry (DESI-MS) for the detection of methyl centralite (MC), ethyl centralite (EC) and diphenylamine (DPA) on adhesive tape GSR stubs typically used for scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray (SEM-EDX) analysis. The optimisation of numerous parameters was conducted using an experimental design. The results indicate that direct analysis of these organic components of GSR is possible although some limitations were also identified. This initial investigation has also indicated that subjecting stubs to DESI analysis does not interfere with subsequent SEM-EDX analysis of primer residues therefore the technique described herein allows a comprehensive examination of GSR that would be highly probative in the event that both OGSR and IGSR are detected in the same specimen.

Characterising the spatial and temporal brain metal profile in a mouse model of tauopathy

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 24-12-2020

DOI: 10.1039/C9MT00267G

Abstract: A dysregulation in the homeostasis of metals such as copper, iron and zinc is speculated to be involved in the pathogenesis of tauopathies, which includes Alzheimer's disease (AD). In particular, there is a growing body of evidence to support a role for iron in facilitating the hyperphosphorylation and aggregation of the tau protein into neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) – a primary neuropathological hallmark of tauopathies. Therefore, the aim of this study was to characterize the spatial and temporal brain metallomic profile in a mouse model of tauopathy (rTg(tauP301L)4510), so as to provide some insight into the potential interaction between tau pathology and iron. Using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS), our results revealed an age-dependent increase in brain iron levels in both WT and rTg(tauP301L)4510 mice. In addition, size exclusion chromatography-ICP-MS (SEC-ICP-MS) revealed significant age-related changes in iron bound to metalloproteins such as ferritin. The outcomes from this study may provide valuable insight into the inter-relationship between iron and tau in ageing and neurodegeneration.

Elemental bio-imaging of calcium phosphate crystal deposits in knee samples from arthritic patients

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1039/B901310P

Super-Resolution Reconstruction for Two- and Three-Dimensional LA-ICP-MS Bioimaging

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 23-10-2019

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.9B02380

Imaging Metals in the Brain by Laser Ablation–Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry

Publisher: Springer New York

Date: 2017

DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-6918-0_3

Practical Considerations for the Design and Implementation of High‐Voltage Power Supplies for Capillary and Microchip Capillary Electrophoresis

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 26-02-2013

DOI: 10.1002/9781118530009.CH4

Low background mould-prepared gelatine standards for reproducible quantification in elemental bio-imaging

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1039/C9AN01580A

Abstract: Raw intensities obtained from the ablation of mould-prepared gelatine.

The application of portable microchip electrophoresis for the screening and comparative analysis of synthetic cathinone seizures

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2014.06.013

Abstract: Variation in the chemical composition of illicit tablets and powders is common among s les within a given drug seizure. Using microchip electrophoresis (ME), multiple tablets can be screened in a cost-effective and timely manner. This method could be used in conjunction with reporting methods that focus solely on statistical s ling to infer homogeneity or otherwise of a larger subset of tablets. Some frequently observed synthetic cathinones, often present in illicit tablets seized in New Zealand, were chosen for analysis. An ME device (Agilent Bioanalyzer 2100) was used to electrophoretically separate synthetic cathinones. The background electrolyte was composed of a 50 mM sodium tetraborate buffer with 50 mM sodium dodecyl sulphate at pH 9.66. Analytes were derivatised prior to analysis for 3 min at 90°C, employing fluorescein isothiocyanate isomer I (FITC). A characteristic fluorescent profile was obtained for each tablet, in terms of the number of constituents, relative peak height ratios and migration times. The repeatability of the developed method was assessed for a wide range of tablets and relative standard deviations of 0.4-5.2% and 1.6-5.5% were calculated for migration times and peak height ratios, respectively. The use of microchip tablet profiles in the forensic case comparison of illicit drug seizure s les in realistic scenarios is discussed.

Factors affecting internal standard selection for quantitative elemental bio-imaging of soft tissues by LA-ICP-MS

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1039/C0JA00267D

Quantification method for elemental bio-imaging by LA-ICP-MS using metal spiked PMMA films

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1039/B911316A

Optimization of the Separation of Amino Acids by Capillary Electrophoresis Using Artificial Neural Networks

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-11-2009

DOI: 10.1002/9780470530191.CH7

Long-Term Intermittent Hypoxia Elevates Cobalt Levels in the Brain and Injures White Matter in Adult Mice

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 10-2013

DOI: 10.5665/SLEEP.3038

Development of a UHPLC method for the detection of organic gunshot residues using artificial neural networks

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5AY00306G

Abstract: A UHPLC method was developed for a broad range of OGSR compounds using ANNs and evaluated using simulated case s les.

Capillary-driven microfluidic paper-based analytical devices for lab on a chip screening of explosive residues in soil

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHROMA.2016.01.054

Abstract: A novel microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD) was designed to filter, extract, and pre-concentrate explosives from soil for direct analysis by a lab on a chip (LOC) device. The explosives were extracted via immersion of wax-printed μPADs directly into methanol soil suspensions for 10min, whereby dissolved explosives travelled upwards into the μPAD circular s ling reservoir. A chad was punched from the s ling reservoir and inserted into a LOC well containing the separation buffer for direct analysis, avoiding any further extraction step. Eight target explosives were separated and identified by fluorescence quenching. The minimum detectable amounts for all eight explosives were between 1.4 and 5.6ng with recoveries ranging from 53-82% from the paper chad, and 12-40% from soil. This method provides a robust and simple extraction method for rapid identification of explosives in complex soil s les.

Comparative Study of Metal Quantification in Neurological Tissue Using Laser Ablation-Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry Imaging and X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-06-2015

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.5B01454

Abstract: Redox-active metals in the brain mediate numerous biochemical processes and are also implicated in a number of neurodegenerative diseases. A number of different approaches are available for quantitatively measuring the spatial distribution of biometals at an image resolution approaching the subcellular level. Measured biometal levels obtained using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICPMS spatial resolution 15 μm × 15 μm) were within the range of those obtained using X-ray fluorescence microscopy (XFM spatial resolution 2 μm × 7 μm) and regional changes in metal concentration across discrete brain regions were replicated to the same degree. Both techniques are well suited to profiling changes in regional biometal distribution between healthy and diseased brain tissues, but absolute quantitation of metal levels varied significantly between methods, depending on the metal of interest. Where all possible variables affect metal levels, independent of a treatment henotype are controlled, either method is suitable for examining differences between experimental groups, though, as with any method for imaging post mortem brain tissue, care should be taken when interpreting the total metal levels with regard to physiological concentrations.

Use of Electrolytes Containing Multiple Co-Anions in the Analysis of Anions by Capillary Electrophoresis Using Indirect Absorbance Detection

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 03-12-1998

DOI: 10.1021/AC9711955

Abstract: Background electrolytes (BGEs) containing more than one UV-absorbing probe co-anion were investigated as possible means to control peak symmetries and improve the sensitivity of indirect detection in the separation of a mixture of inorganic and organic anions having a range of electrophoretic mobilities. In initial experiments, chloride and propanoate, which do not absorb at the detection wavelength, were added in idually to a BGE containing phthalate as the UV-absorbing probe co-anion. The response ratios (i.e., the detector response for an analyte obtained with the BGE containing the probe and added co-anion ided by the response of the BGE containing the probe alone) were found to be dependent on the relative mobilities of the analyte, probe, and co-anion. In general, it was found that the analyte mainly displaced the BGE component to which its mobility was closest and exclusively displaced any BGE component having the same mobility. This behavior was utilized to design BGEs containing multiple probes to improve peak shapes by matching the mobilities of the BGE components with those of the analytes. A BGE comprising chromate and phthalate as probes was used to demonstrate the improvement in peak shapes when such an approach was used. This was further extended to a BGE containing three probes, namely, chromate, phthalate, and benzoate. System peaks were observed for each multiple-component BGE and for n BGE co-anions n - 1 system peaks were induced. A simple linear function relating the mobility of the system peak for a two-co-anion BGE to the mobilities and relative concentrations of each of the co-anions was derived empirically. Finally, a series of probes was investigated to determine the optimum multiple BGE composition giving the best peak shapes and sensitivity in the separation of a mixture of 15 analytes. The best combination was a two-probe BGE consisting of chromate and 4-hydroxybenzenesulfonic acid.

Analysis of amphetamine‐type substances by capillary zone electrophoresis using capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 23-07-2010

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.201000128

Abstract: CE with capacitively coupled contactless conductivity detection (C(4)D) was employed for the separation and detection of seven hetamine analogues as well as hetamine, dextro hetamine, meth hetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine. The separation electrolyte was 30 mM hydroxypropyl-beta-cyclodextrin (HPbetaCD) in a 75 mM acetic acid+25 mM sodium acetate buffer adjusted to pH 4.55. Conductivity detection was compared with UV detection using this same electrolyte. Average detection limits for C(4)D and UV were 1.3 and 1.0 ppm, respectively. The effects of HPbetaCD concentration and BGE composition on the selectivity of the separation were also investigated. An illicit, street-grade s le of 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine (Ecstasy) and a prescription dextro hetamine tablet were also analysed.

Determination and prediction of transfer ratios for anions in capillary zone electrophoresis with indirect UV detection

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-1997

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(96)01022-9

Trehalose elevates brain zinc levels following controlled cortical impact in a mouse model of traumatic brain injury

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/C8MT00068A

Abstract: Zinc (Zn) deficiency is a clinical consequence of brain injury that can result in neuropathological outcomes that are exacerbated with age.

A rapid CZE method for the analysis of benzodiazepines in spiked beverages

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-2007

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.200700110

Abstract: A rapid CZE method was developed for the simultaneous determination of nine benzodiazepines in spiked beverages (nitrazepam oxazepam, alprazolam, flunitrazepam, temazepam, diazepam, 7-aminoflunitrazepam, 7-aminonitrazepam and 7-aminoclonazepam). The method employed a double-coated capillary coated with poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) and then dextran sulphate. The BGE conditions were 100 mM ammonium phosphate buffer, pH 2.5, which gave baseline resolution between consecutive peaks and a run time of less than 6.5 min. This method offers improvements in both resolution and run time, compared to those attained under analogous conditions with an uncoated capillary. The validated method was successfully applied to beverages that had been spiked with benzodiazepines at concentrations simulating prescription tablets. No s le pretreatment was required to quantify five benzodiazepines in Coca-Cola, orange juice, beer, bourbon and Bacardi. The exception was white wine, where the complex s le matrix did not enable the accurate quantification of nitrazepam.

Experiences and perspectives of cancer stakeholders regarding COVID‐19 vaccination

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 18-07-2023

DOI: 10.1111/AJCO.13808

Abstract: The risk of dying from COVID‐19 is higher for those who are older, immune‐compromised, or chronically ill. Vaccines are an effective strategy in reducing mortality and morbidity from COVID‐19. However, for COVID‐19 vaccination programs to reach full potential, vaccines must be taken up by those at greatest risk, such as cancer patients. Understanding the perspectives of all stakeholders involved in cancer patient COVID‐19 vaccine uptake will be critical to ensuring appropriate support, and information is provided to facilitate vaccination. The aim of this research was to explore the longitudinal views of cancer stakeholders regarding COVID‐19 vaccination. Semistructured interviews were conducted with cancer patients ( n = 23), family members ( n = 10), cancer health professionals ( n = 19), and representatives of cancer nongovernment organizations ( n = 7) across Australia 6 and 12 months postrecruitment. Transcripts were thematically analyzed, using an inductive approach. All stakeholder groups expressed mostly positive attitudes toward COVID‐19 vaccination, with the following key themes identified: (1) high motivation—vaccination perceived as offering health protection and hope (2) hesitancy—concern about vaccine hesitancy among the general population, with a minority hesitant themselves (3) confusion and frustration—regarding the vaccine rollout and patient eligibility (4) uncertainty—about vaccination in the context of cancer (5) access to vaccination and (6) desire for expert in idualized advice—on vaccine interaction with cancer treatments. These findings highlight the COVID‐19 vaccine concerns and information needs of cancer stakeholders. Policymakers need to provide clear tailored information regarding vaccine eligibility, accessibility, benefits, and risks to facilitate vaccine uptake.

Is early-life iron exposure critical in neurodegeneration?

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 23-06-2015

DOI: 10.1038/NRNEUROL.2015.100

Abstract: The effects of iron deficiency are well documented, but relatively little is known about the long-term implications of iron overload during development. High levels of redox-active iron in the brain have been associated with neurodegenerative disorders, most notably Parkinson disease, yet a gradual increase in brain iron seems to be a feature of normal ageing. Increased brain iron levels might result from intake of infant formula that is excessively fortified with iron, thereby altering the trajectory of brain iron uptake and lifying the risk of iron-associated neurodegeneration in later life. In this Perspectives article, we discuss the potential long-term implications of excessive iron intake in early life, propose the analysis of iron deposits in teeth as a method for retrospective determination of iron exposure during critical developmental windows, and call for evidence-based optimization of the chemical composition of infant dietary supplements.

Profiling the iron, copper and zinc content in primary neuron and astrocyte cultures by rapid online quantitative size exclusion chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1039/C3MT00227F

Abstract: Metals often determine the chemical reactivity of the proteins to which they are bound. Each cell in the body tightly maintains a unique metalloproteomic profile, mostly dependent on function. This paper describes an analytical online flow injection quantitative size exclusion chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SEC-ICP-MS) method, which was applied to profiling the metal-binding proteins found in primary cultures of neurons and astrocytes. This method can be conducted using similar amounts of s le to those used for Western blotting (20-150 μg protein), and has a turnaround time of <15 minutes. Metalloprotein standards for Fe (as ferritin), Cu and Zn (as superoxide dismutase-1) were used to construct multi-point calibration curves for online quantification of metalloproteins by SEC-ICP-MS. Homogenates of primary neuron and astrocyte cultures were analysed by SEC-ICP-MS. Online quantification by external calibration with metalloprotein standards determined the mass of metal eluting from the column relative to time (as pg s(-1)). Total on-column Fe, Cu and Zn detection limits ranged from 0.825 ± 0.005 ng to 13.6 ± 0.7 pg. Neurons and astrocytes exhibited distinct metalloprotein profiles, featuring both ubiquitous and unique metalloprotein species. Separation and detection by SEC-ICP-MS allows appraisal of these metalloproteins in their native state, and online quantification was achieved using this relatively simple external calibration process.

Calibration of a passive sampling device for time‐integrated sampling of hydrophilic herbicides in aquatic environments

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1897/06-401R.1

Abstract: Two types of solid-phase materials, a styrene inylbenzene copolymer sorbent (embedded in a SDB-XC Empore disk) and a styrene inylbenzene copolymer sorbent modified with sulfonic acid functional groups (embedded in a SDB-RPS Empore disk), were compared as a receiving phase in a passive s ling device for monitoring polar pesticides. The SDB-XC Empore disk was selected for further evaluation, overlayed with either a polysulfone or a polyethersulfone diffusion membrane. The target herbicides included five nonionized herbicides (simazine, atrazine, diuron, clomazone, and metolachlor) and four phenoxy acid herbicides (dicamba, (2,4-dichlorophenoxy)acetic acid [2,4-D], (4-chloro-2-methylphenoxy)acetic acid [MCPA], and triclopyr) with log octanol/water partition coefficient (log K(OW)) values of less than three in water. Uptake of these herbicides generally was higher into a device constructed of a SDB-XC Empore disk as a receiving phase covered with a polyethersulfone membrane compared to a similar device covered with a polysulfone membrane. Using the device with a SDB-XC Empore disk covered with a polyethersulfone membrane, linear uptake of simazine, atrazine, diuron, clomazone, and metolachlor was observed for up to 21 d, and daily s ling rates of the herbicides from water in a laboratory flow-through system were determined. The uptake rate of each nonionized herbicide by the Empore disk-based passive s ler was linearly proportional to its concentration in the water, and the s ling rate was independent of the water concentrations over the 21-d period. Uptake of the phenoxy acid herbicides (2,4-D, MCPA, and triclopyr) obeyed first-order kinetics and rapidly reached equilibrium in the passive s ler after approximately 12 d of exposure. The Empore disk-based passive s ler displayed isotropic kinetics, with a release half-life for triclopyr of approximately 6 d.

Oral Treatment with CuII(atsm) Increases Mutant SOD1 In Vivo but Protects Motor Neurons and Improves the Phenotype of a Transgenic Mouse Model of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Publisher: Society for Neuroscience

Date: 04-06-2014

DOI: 10.1523/JNEUROSCI.4196-13.2014

Promise unfulfilled

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 22-02-2022

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5900

Abstract: Web‐based mental health interventions (e‐MhIs) show promise for increasing accessibility and acceptability of therapy for cancer patients. This study aimed to elicit health professionals' (HPs) views on optimal models for including e‐MhIs within standard cancer care. Cancer HPs who worked in a service where an e‐MhI was available to patients, and multi‐disciplinary HPs interested in supportive care, were invited to participate via email. In semi‐structured phone interviews, participants' views on e‐MhIs were elicited. They were then presented with five model vignettes varying in local and centralised staff input, and asked to indicate their preference and views on each. A thematic analysis was applied to the data. Twelve nurses, nine psychologists, seven social workers, and three oncologists participated. Four key themes were identified: looking after patients, relationships and multidisciplinary care, trust, and feasibility, all contributing to a meta‐theme of tension. Participants were motivated to ensure optimal patient outcomes and thus needed to trust the intervention content and process. They believed personal relationships increased patient engagement while affording greater work satisfaction for HPs. Most participants preferred a fully integrated model of care involving local HP assessment and design of a tailored therapy incorporating some e‐MhI components where appropriate, but recognised this gold standard was likely not feasible given current resources. Co‐design with local staff of optimal models of care for the content and process of implementing e‐MhIs is required, with due consideration of the patient group, staffing levels, local workflows and HP preferences, to ensure sustainability and optimal patient outcomes. The ADAPT Cluster RCT is registered with the ANZCTR Registration number: ACTRN12617000411347.

Retention behaviour of strong acid anions in ion-exclusion chromatography on sulfonate and carboxylate stationary phases

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2000

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(99)01312-6

Abstract: Some factors influencing the retention of strong-acid anions on ion-exclusion columns were investigated using columns with sulfonate and carboxylate functional groups. The nature of the functional group on the resin, the eluent pH and the eluent ionic strength all significantly affected the retention and separation of these analytes. Retention was observed for all strong-acid anions over the eluent pH range 2.2-5.7 and increased with both decreasing eluent pH and increasing eluent ionic strength. Some separation of strong-acid anions was possible when using a resin with carboxylate functional groups. It has also been demonstrated that strong-acid anions are poor markers of column void volume for ion-exclusion chromatography. A more accurate value was obtained using the neutral polymeric material dextran blue. When using eluents of low ionic strength, poor or fronted peak shapes were observed. A mechanism for these observations is proposed that relates the shape to ionic strength changes across the peak. A system peak was encountered under most experimental conditions. The properties of this peak are discussed and a cause for the system peak postulated.

Chemical profiling and classification of illicit heroin by principal component analysis, calculation of inter sample correlation and artificial neural networks

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 15-08-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2005.03.041

Abstract: Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were utilised to validate illicit drug classification in the profiling method used at "Institut de Police Scientifique" of the University of Lausanne (IPS). This method established links between s les using a combination of principal component analysis (PCA) and calculation of a correlation value between s les. Heroin seizures sent to the IPS laboratory were analysed using gas chromatography (GC) to separate the major alkaloids present in illicit heroin. Statistical analysis was then performed on 3371 s les. Initially, PCA was performed as a preliminary screen to identify s les of a similar chemical profile. A correlation value was then calculated for each s le previously identified with PCA. This correlation value was used to determine links between drug s les. These links were then recorded in an Ibase((R)) database. From this database the notion of "chemical class" arises, where s les with similar chemical profiles are grouped together. Currently, about 20 "chemical classes" have been identified. The normalised peak areas of six target compounds were then used to train an ANN to classify each s le into its appropriate class. Four hundred and sixty-eight s les were used as a training data set. Sixty s les were treated as blinds and 370 as non-linked s les. The results show that in 96% of cases the neural network attributed the seizure to the right "chemical class". The application of a neural network was found to be a useful tool to validate the classification of new drug seizures in existing chemical classes. This tool should be increasingly used in such situations involving profile comparisons and classifications.

Australian oncology health professionals’ knowledge, perceptions, and clinical practice related to cancer-related cognitive impairment and utility of a factsheet

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-02-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-022-06868-Z

Abstract: Cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI) can have debilitating effects on cancer survivors’ quality of life. Despite this, patients often report a lack of information provided by health professionals (HPs) to assist with understanding and managing cognitive changes. This study aimed to explore Australian oncology HPs’ understanding of and clinical practice related to CRCI including the use of a Cancer Council Australia CRCI factsheet. Australian oncology HPs (medical oncologists, cancer nurses, and clinical psychologists) completed a questionnaire that assessed CRCI knowledge, prior to receiving the factsheet. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore their perceptions of CRCI and the factsheet. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using framework analysis to identify key themes. Questionnaires were completed by twenty-nine HPs. Most HPs had moderate to high knowledge of CRCI, yet low knowledge of the relationship between CRCI and cancer. Twenty-six (response rate 90%) HPs medical oncologists ( n = 7), cancer nurses ( n = 12), and clinical psychologists ( n = 7), consented to be interviewed. Three main themes were identified: (1) Is CRCI impact real or over-rated? (2) If it is important, they will tell me: identifying and responding to CRCI in clinical practice and (3) Using a factsheet in clinical practice. This study’s multi-disciplinary exploration of Australian oncology HPs’ perceptions of CRCI highlighted that health professional perceptions drive CRCI discussions with patients. Further education to support clinicians to discuss CRCI is required. Consideration of the barriers and facilitators within healthcare settings is important for successful integration of the factsheet into routine care.

Physical evidence in drug intelligence, Part 2: Discrimination of packaging tapes by colour

Publisher: Informa UK Limited

Date: 06-2008

DOI: 10.1080/00450610802047598

Determination of gadolinium MRI contrast agents in fresh and oceanic waters of Australia employing micro-solid phase extraction, HILIC-ICP-MS and bandpass mass filtering

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D0JA00493F

Abstract: Speciation analysis of Gd-based MRI contrast agents in fresh and oceanic waters employing an automatised micro-solid phase extraction method and HILIC-ICP-MS detection operating an increased mass bandpass.

Indirect photometric detection of anions in capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-1999

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(98)00787-0

A fast CE method for the achiral separation of methadone and its major metabolites, 2‐ethylidene‐1,5‐dimethyl‐3,3‐diphenylpyrrolidine and 2‐ethyl‐5‐methyl‐3,3‐diphenyl‐1‐pyrroline

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 10-2007

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.200700090

Abstract: The utilization of dynamic doubly coated capillaries for a fast separation of methadone and its two major metabolites, 2-ethylidene-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP) and 2-ethyl-5-methyl-3,3-diphenyl-1-pyrroline (EMDP) was investigated. The coated capillaries were prepared using a polycation of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride) and a polyanion of dextran sulfate. A fast achiral separation was developed using the coated capillaries with a BGE of 100 mM phosphate buffer at pH 2.6. Complete achiral separation of methadone, EDDP and EMDP was achieved, with migration times of approximately 4 min. The method offers considerable advantages with respect to BGE simplicity and analysis time compared to previously published CE methods for methadone and its related analytes.

Classification of premium and regular gasoline by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, principal component analysis and artificial neural networks

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2003

DOI: 10.1016/S0379-0738(03)00002-1

Abstract: Detection and correct classification of gasoline is important for both arson and fuel spill investigation. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to classify premium and regular gasolines from gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) spectral data obtained from gasoline sold in Canada over one calendar year. Depending upon the dataset used for training and tests, around 80-93% of the s les were correctly classified as either premium or regular gasoline using the Mahalanobis distances calculated from the principal components scores. Only 48-62% of the s les were correctly classified when the premium and regular gasoline s les were ided further into their winter/summer sub-groups. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were trained to recognise premium and regular gasolines from the same GC-MS data. The best-performing ANN correctly identified all s les as either a premium or regular grade. Approximately 97% of the premium and regular s les were correctly classified according to their winter or summer sub-group.

Implementing Web-Based Therapy in Routine Mental Health Care: Systematic Review of Health Professionals’ Perspectives (Preprint)

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 10-12-2019

DOI: 10.2196/PREPRINTS.17362

Abstract: eb-based therapies hold great promise to increase accessibility and reduce costs of delivering mental health care however, uptake in routine settings has been low. ur objective in this review was to summarize what is known about health care professionals’ perceptions of the barriers to and facilitators of the implementation of web-based psychological treatments in routine care of adults in health care settings. e searched 5 major databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library) for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods studies exploring health professionals’ views on computer- or internet-based psychological treatment programs. We coded included articles for risk of bias and extracted data using a prepiloted extraction sheet. e identified 29 eligible articles: 14 qualitative, 11 quantitative, and 4 mixed methods. We identified the following themes: patient factors, health professional factors, the therapeutic relationship, therapy factors, organizational and system factors, and models of care. Health professionals supported web-based therapies only for patients with relatively straightforward, low-risk diagnoses, strong motivation and engagement, high computer literacy and access, and low need for tailored content. They perceived flexibility with timing and location as advantages of web-based therapy, but preferred blended therapy to facilitate rapport and allow active monitoring and follow-up of patients. They emphasized the need for targeted training and organizational support to manage changed workflows. Health professionals were concerned about the confidentiality and security of client data for web-based programs, suggesting that clear and transparent protocols need to be in place to reassure health professionals before they will be willing to refer. ithout health professionals’ support, many people will not access web-based therapies. To increase uptake, it is important to ensure that health professionals receive education, familiarization, and training to support them in incorporating web-based therapies into their practice, and to design systems that support health professionals in this new way of working with patients and addressing their concerns. ROSPERO CRD42018100869 5vaoqsk

Forensic analysis of condom and personal lubricants by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 15-08-2005

DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2005.03.040

Abstract: Condoms may offer sexual assailants a simple and relatively effective means by which they may remove and dispose of the biological evidence of their contact with the victim. Without this valuable probative evidence, the investigator may need to turn to such alternative forms of physical evidence, such as the residue remaining from the condom lubricant, and any other additional lubricating substances, which may have been used by the assailant. In this study, 68 different condom and personal lubricant s les were analysed using micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MEKC) with ultraviolet absorbance detection. The electropherograms were processed by principal component analysis (PCA) and classified with linear discriminant analysis. This classified 233 s les out of 263 into their correct s le group. An alternative method of classification in which the s le electropherograms were converted to vectors and a correlation was determined by the cosine of the angles between these vectors. This correctly classified 172 s les of the 296. Results indicate that the combination of CE with chemometric data treatment offers the potential of being a rapid and efficient means by which condom and personal lubricant s les may be differentiated. Although this analytical method at present lacks the sensitivity required for sexual assault swab analysis, it is hoped that future developments in instrumentation detection capabilities will permit its use one day as a routine casework tool.

Antimony by ICP-MS as a marker for sentinel lymph nodes in melanoma patients

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 26-02-2003

DOI: 10.1039/B300527E

Abstract: A sensitive, accurate and specific method for the analysis of antimony by ICP-MS is presented as a marker of the sentinel lymph node in melanoma patients.

Investigating the Association Between Self-Reported Comorbid Anxiety and Depression and Health Service Use in Cancer Survivors

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 05-04-2021

DOI: 10.1007/S40273-021-01016-7

Impact of Individual, Organizational, and Technological Factors on the Implementation of an Online Portal to Support a Clinical Pathway Addressing Psycho-Oncology Care: Mixed Methods Study

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 14-04-2021

DOI: 10.2196/26390

Abstract: Clinical pathways (CPs) can improve patient outcomes but can be complex to implement. Technologies, such as clinical decision support (CDS) tools, can facilitate their use, but require end-user testing in clinical settings. This study applied the Technology Acceptance Model to evaluate the in idual, organizational, and technological contexts impacting application of a portal to facilitate a CP for anxiety and depression (the ADAPT Portal) in a metropolitan cancer service. The ADAPT Portal triggers patient screening on patient reported outcomes, alerts staff to high scores, recommends evidence-based management, and triggers review and rescreening at set intervals. Quantitative and qualitative data on portal activity, data accuracy, and health service staff perspectives were collected. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. Overall, 15 (100% of those invited) health service staff agreed to be interviewed. During the pilot, 73 users (36 health service staff members and 37 patients) were registered on the ADAPT Portal. Of the 37 patients registered, 16 (43%) completed screening at least once, with seven screening positive and triaged appropriately. In total, 34 support requests were lodged, resulting in 17 portal enhancements (technical issues). Health service staff considered the ADAPT Portal easy to use and useful however, some deemed it unnecessary or burdensome (in idual issues), particularly in a busy cancer service (organizational issues). User testing of a CDS to facilitate screening and assessment of anxiety and depression in cancer patients highlighted some technological issues in implementing the ADAPT CDS, resulting in 17 enhancements. Our results highlight the importance of obtaining health service staff feedback when piloting specialized CDS tools and addressing contextual factors when implementing them.

Implementing a web-based system of screening for symptoms and needs using patient-reported outcomes in people with cancer

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 21-12-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-022-07547-9

A review of the content and psychometric properties of cancer-related fatigue (CRF) measures used to assess fatigue in intervention studies

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 24-08-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-022-07305-X

Abstract: Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common and debilitating consequence of cancer and its treatment. Numerous supportive care interventions have been developed to alleviate CRF however, the ersity of outcome measures used to assess CRF limits comparability of findings. We aimed to evaluate the content and psychometric properties of measures used to assess CRF in interventions targeting fatigue, to inform the selection of suitable measures in future research. Included measures were identified from a systematic review of interventions targeting CRF. General characteristics of each measure were extracted, and item content was assessed against domains specified by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) definition of CRF. Psychometric properties were evaluated against COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of heath Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) criteria. Of 54 measures identified, 25 met inclusion criteria. Seventeen were fatigue-specific and eight a fatigue subscale or single item within a broader measure. Only 14 (56%) were specifically developed for cancer populations. Content coverage according to the NCCN CRF definition ranged from 0 to 75%. Evidence for fulfilment of COSMIN criteria in cancer populations ranged from 0 to 93%, with only five measures meeting 70% of the COSMIN criteria. The Piper Fatigue Scale-Revised had good content coverage, but did not comprehensively address COSMIN criteria. The EORTC-FA12 and FACIT/FACT-F had excellent psychometric properties, with each capturing different aspects of fatigue. Ultimately, the choice of CRF measure should be guided by the research question and the CRF domains most relevant to the particular research context.

Patterns of floral nectar standing crops allow plants to manipulate their pollinators

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 03-02-2020

DOI: 10.1038/S41598-020-58102-7

Abstract: ‘Pollination syndromes’ involving floral nectar have eluded satisfactory evolutionary explanation. For ex le, floral nectars for vertebrate-pollinated plants average low sugar concentrations, while such animals prefer high concentrations, perplexing pollination biologists and arousing recent controversy. Such relationships should result from evolutionary games, with plants and pollinators adopting Evolutionarily Stable Strategies, and nectar manipulating rather than attracting pollinators. Plant potential to manipulate pollinators depends on relationships between neighbouring flowers within plants, for all nectar attributes, but this has not been investigated. We measured nectar volume, concentration and sugar composition for open flowers on naturally-growing Blandfordia grandiflora plants, presenting classic bird-pollinated plant syndrome. To evaluate potential pollinator manipulation through nectar, we analysed relationships between neighbouring flowers for nectar volume, concentration, proportion sucrose, log(fructose/glucose), and sugar weight. To evaluate potential attraction of repeat-visits to flowers or plants through nectar, we compared attributes between successive days. Nearby flowers were positively correlated for all attributes, except log(fructose/glucose) as fructose≈glucose. Most relationships between nectar attributes for flowers and plants on successive days were non-significant. Nectar-feeding pollinators should therefore decide whether to visit another flower on a plant, based on all attributes of nectar just-obtained, enabling plants to manipulate pollinators through adjusting nectar. Plants are unlikely to attract repeat pollinator-visits through nectar production. Floral nectar evolution is conceptually straightforward but empirically challenging. A mutant plant deviating from the population in attributes of nectar-production per flower would manipulate, rather than attract, nectar-feeding pollinators, altering pollen transfer, hence reproduction. However, links between floral nectar and plant fitness present empirical difficulties.

MMP-11 as a biomarker for metastatic breast cancer by immunohistochemical-assisted imaging mass spectrometry

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 15-09-2018

DOI: 10.1007/S00216-018-1365-3

Abstract: MMP-11 is a member of the matrix metalloproteinase family (MMPs) which are overexpressed in cancer cells, stromal cells and the adjacent microenvironment. The MMP protein family encompasses zinc-dependent endopeptidases that degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM), facilitating the breakdown of the basal membrane and matrix connective tissues. This function is believed to be important in cancer development and metastasis. This paper investigated a gold nanoparticle-based immunohistochemical assay to visualise the distribution of MMP-11 in human breast cancer tissues from eight patients with and without metastases by employing laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS). The expression of MMP-11 was increased and more heterogeneous in metastatic specimens compared to non-metastatic tumour s les. These findings demonstrate that imaging breast tumours by LA-ICP-MS may be a useful tool to aid the prognosis and treatment of breast cancer. As an ex le, s les of two patients are presented who were diagnosed with matching characteristics and grades of breast cancer. Although both patients had a similar prognosis and treatment, only one developed metastases.

Determination of vitamin B12 in equine urine by liquid chromatography – inductively coupled plasma – mass spectrometry

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 12-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.JTEMB.2018.05.005

Abstract: Regulating authorities in the racing industry have restricted the administration of potentially performance enhancing cobalt salts to horses. There are severe penalties for trainers presenting horses with elevated urine cobalt concentrations, and compliance is ensured via analysis of total urinary cobalt at thresholds of 100 μg/L. When cobalt is present as part of the cobalamin molecule it is not considered performance enhancing. This paper demonstrates that a horse can excrete a significant proportion of a commercially available vitamin B12 injection in urine without metabolic modification. A liquid chromatography - inductively coupled plasma - mass spectrometry (LC-ICP-MS) method is presented for urinary cobalt speciation. Given the serious nature surrounding performance enhancing drug offences, we conclude that presumptive positives identified by urine total cobalt measurements require further analysis to differentiate inorganic cobalt from vitamin B12.

Detection of gunshot residues using mass spectrometry

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1155/2014/965403

Abstract: In recent years, forensic scientists have become increasingly interested in the detection and interpretation of organic gunshot residues (OGSR) due to the increasing use of lead- and heavy metal-free ammunition. This has also been prompted by the identification of gunshot residue- (GSR-) like particles in environmental and occupational s les. Various techniques have been investigated for their ability to detect OGSR. Mass spectrometry (MS) coupled to a chromatographic system is a powerful tool due to its high selectivity and sensitivity. Further, modern MS instruments can detect and identify a number of explosives and additives which may require different ionization techniques. Finally, MS has been applied to the analysis of both OGSR and inorganic gunshot residue (IGSR), although the “gold standard” for analysis is scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray microscopy (SEM-EDX). This review presents an overview of the technical attributes of currently available MS and ionization techniques and their reported applications to GSR analysis.

Quantitative imaging of translocated silver following nanoparticle exposure by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/C7AY02294H

Abstract: We demonstrate the use of LA-ICP-MS for determining the location and quantification of silver in a rat spleen following nanoparticle exposure.

Cancer-related cognitive impairment: a mixed methods evaluation of a standard factsheet

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 06-11-2021

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-021-06666-Z

Abstract: To understand the impact of cancer survivors accessing a standard factsheet regarding cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), publicly available to the Australian public via Cancer Council Australia's websites. Twenty-three cancer survivors completed a questionnaire assessing pre-factsheet knowledge of CRCI. Semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore participants' experiences of CRCI and perceptions of the factsheet. Interviews were analysed via thematic analysis using a framework approach. Finally, participants completed another questionnaire assessing post-factsheet change in knowledge of CRCI. Pre- and post-factsheet questionnaire change scores indicated increased knowledge and greater confidence about CRCI. Interview data resulted in five themes: generally positive perceptions of the factsheet's layout and wording survivors, regardless of treatments received, experienced CRCI symptoms, with some having strong negative emotional responses to their symptoms perceptions of the factsheet's strategies to manage CRCI ranged from relevant and useful, to impractical or unrealistic if symptoms were too severe interactions with healthcare system influenced survivors' perceptions of help-seeking, with negative healthcare experiences a major barrier and generally positive impacts of the factsheet, with survivors praising the factsheet's ability to validate the CRCI experience, increase CRCI knowledge, influence health beliefs, and prompt help-seeking. The factsheet presentation and wording were acceptable to participants. Its ability to normalise and raise awareness for CRCI validated participants' symptoms. The factsheet's potential as a first-line intervention in a stepped-care approach was identified, with participants finding the suggested self-management strategies practical. The factsheet may overcome barriers to self-reporting by encouraging patients to talk with HCPs about CRCI.

Indirect spectrophotometric detection of inorganic anions in ion-exchange capillary electrochromatography

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 09-2000

DOI: 10.1002/1522-2683(20000901)21:15<3073::AID-ELPS3073>3.0.CO;2-H

Metal chaperones prevent zinc-mediated cognitive decline

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-2015

DOI: 10.1016/J.NBD.2014.12.012

Abstract: Zinc transporter-3 (ZnT3) protein is responsible for loading zinc into presynaptic vesicles and consequently controls the availability of zinc at the glutamatergic synapse. ZnT3 has been shown to decline with age and in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and is crucially involved in learning and memory. In this study, we utilised whole animal behavioural analyses in the ZnT3 KO mouse line, together with electrophysiological analysis of long-term potentiation in brain slices from ZnT3 KO mice, to show that metal chaperones (clioquinol, 30 mg/kg/day for 6weeks) can prevent the age-dependent cognitive phenotype that characterises these animals. This likely occurs as a result of a homeostatic restoration of synaptic protein expression, as clioquinol significantly restored levels of various pre- and postsynaptic proteins that are critical for normal cognition, including PSD-95 AMPAR and NMDAR2b. We hypothesised that this clioquinol-mediated restoration of synaptic health resulted from a selective increase in synaptic zinc content within the hippoc us. While we demonstrated a small regional increase in hippoc al zinc content using synchrotron x-ray fluorescence microscopy, further sub-region analyses are required to determine whether this effect is seen in other regions of the hippoc al formation that are more closely linked to the synaptic plasticity effects observed in this study. These data support our recent report on the use of a different metal chaperone (PBT2) to prevent normal age-related cognitive decline and demonstrate that metal chaperones are efficacious in preventing the zinc-mediated cognitive decline that characterises ageing and disease.

False negative sentinel lymph node biopsies in melanoma may result from deficiencies in nuclear medicine, surgery, or pathology

Publisher: Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health)

Date: 06-2008

DOI: 10.1097/SLA.0B013E3181724F5E

Impact of Individual, Organizational, and Technological Factors on the Implementation of an Online Portal to Support a Clinical Pathway Addressing Psycho-Oncology Care: Mixed Methods Study (Preprint)

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 10-12-2020

DOI: 10.2196/PREPRINTS.26390

Abstract: linical pathways (CPs) can improve patient outcomes but can be complex to implement. Technologies, such as clinical decision support (CDS) tools, can facilitate their use, but require end-user testing in clinical settings. his study applied the Technology Acceptance Model to evaluate the in idual, organizational, and technological contexts impacting application of a portal to facilitate a CP for anxiety and depression (the ADAPT Portal) in a metropolitan cancer service. The ADAPT Portal triggers patient screening on patient reported outcomes, alerts staff to high scores, recommends evidence-based management, and triggers review and rescreening at set intervals. uantitative and qualitative data on portal activity, data accuracy, and health service staff perspectives were collected. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and thematic analysis was applied to qualitative data. verall, 15 (100% of those invited) health service staff agreed to be interviewed. During the pilot, 73 users (36 health service staff members and 37 patients) were registered on the ADAPT Portal. Of the 37 patients registered, 16 (43%) completed screening at least once, with seven screening positive and triaged appropriately. In total, 34 support requests were lodged, resulting in 17 portal enhancements (technical issues). Health service staff considered the ADAPT Portal easy to use and useful however, some deemed it unnecessary or burdensome (in idual issues), particularly in a busy cancer service (organizational issues). ser testing of a CDS to facilitate screening and assessment of anxiety and depression in cancer patients highlighted some technological issues in implementing the ADAPT CDS, resulting in 17 enhancements. Our results highlight the importance of obtaining health service staff feedback when piloting specialized CDS tools and addressing contextual factors when implementing them.

The Iceman’s Last Meal Consisted of Fat, Wild Meat, and Cereals

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.CUB.2018.05.067

Laser Ablation–Inductively Coupled Plasma–Mass Spectrometry Imaging in Biology

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 21-05-2021

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.CHEMREV.0C01219

Abstract: Elemental imaging gives insight into the fundamental chemical makeup of living organisms. Every cell on Earth is comprised of a complex and dynamic mixture of the chemical elements that define structure and function. Many disease states feature a disturbance in elemental homeostasis, and understanding how, and most importantly where, has driven the development of laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) as the principal elemental imaging technique for biologists. This review provides an outline of ICP-MS technology, laser ablation cell designs, imaging workflows, and methods of quantification. Detailed ex les of imaging applications including analyses of cancers, elemental uptake and accumulation, plant bioimaging, nanomaterials in the environment, and exposure science and neuroscience are presented and discussed. Recent incorporation of immunohistochemical workflows for imaging biomolecules, complementary and multimodal imaging techniques, and image processing methods is also reviewed.

Cobalt accumulation in horses following repeated administration of cobalt chloride

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-08-2019

DOI: 10.1111/AVJ.12872

Abstract: To monitor cobalt concentrations in urine, red blood cells and plasma after chronic parenteral administration of cobalt chloride evaluate these results against the current International Federation of Horseracing Authorities thresholds for detecting cobalt misuse. Eight mares were randomly assigned to four treatment groups, with two mares in each group: Group 1 - control group, Group 2 - 25 milligrams cobalt intravenously as CoCl Urine creatinine measurements to assess horse hydration status were performed by the Jaffe reaction method. Cobalt determinations in plasma, blood and urine were by inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Haematocrit concentrations, used to calculate red cell cobalt levels, were performed using a microhematocrit centrifuge. Statistical analyses were conducted in Genstat (v17, VSNi). Marked cobalt accumulation was evident with increasing cobalt concentrations for all s le matrices in specimens collected immediately prior to cobalt administration. Correlation between the s le matrices improved when urine cobalt concentration was adjusted for creatinine level. Red cell cobalt levels remained elevated for at least 12 weeks after cessation of administration, consistent with the lifespan of the red cell. There was no significant change in haematocrit concentrations for the duration of the study. The current urine cobalt threshold was only effective at detecting acute cobalt exposure while the plasma cobalt threshold was able to consistently identify chronic high-level cobalt exposure and potential cobalt misuse. The threshold values legislated for urine cobalt do not correlate with those set for plasma. The acute nature of urinary cobalt excretion provides a relatively small window through which cobalt administration is detected. Plasma and red cell cobalt concentrations can provide a clearer picture of potential cobalt misuse.

Use of dyes as indirect detection probes for the high-sensitivity determination of anions by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-1998

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(98)00025-9

Beyond the transect: An alternative microchemical imaging method for fine scale analysis of trace elements in fish otoliths during early life

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2014

DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2014.05.115

Abstract: Microchemical analysis of otolith (calcified 'ear stones' used for balance and orientation) of fishes is an important tool for studying their environmental history and management. However, the spatial resolution achieved is often too coarse to examine short-term events occurring in early life. Current methods rely on single points or transects across the otolith surface, which may provide a limited view of elemental distributions, a matter that has not previously been investigated. Imaging by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) permits microchemical analyses of short-term events in early life with high ( 97% was achieved using a multi-point non matrix-matched calibration of National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) 610 and 612 (trace elements in glass) using Longerich's calculation method against the matrix-matched standard FEBS-1 (powdered red snapper [Lutjanus c echanus] otolith). The spatial resolution achieved in the otolith corresponded to a time period of 2 ± 1 days during the larval phase, and 4 ± 1 days during the post-settlement juvenile phase. This method has the potential to improve interpretations of early life-history events at scales corresponding to specific events. While the images showed gradients in Sr and Ba across the larval settlement zone more clearly than single transects, the method proved s le homogeneity throughout the structure demonstrating that 2D scanning has no significant advantage over line scans.

Elemental bio-imaging of melanoma in lymph node biopsies

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1039/B812745J

Abstract: The spatial distribution of trace elements in human lymph nodes partially infiltrated by melanoma cells was determined by elemental bio-imaging. Imaging of (31)P within the nodal capsule and normal lymph node tissue showed a clear demarcation of the tumour boundary, with a significant decrease in relative (31)P concentration within the tumour. The location of the tumour boundary was confirmed by haematoxylin and eosin staining of serial sections and observation by light microscopy. Further enhancement of the tumour boundary was achieved by imaging the (31)P/(34)S ratio. (31)P/(66)Zn ratio images showed a decreasing ratio beyond the tumour boundary that extended into peritumour normal lymph node tissue.

Quantification strategies for elemental imaging of biological samples using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C2AN15792F

Abstract: This review provides analysts with critical insights of current approaches for quantification by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry in the field of elemental imaging. This encompasses both calibration strategies that have been used with success in imaging biological s les, as well as those with potential to improve analytical accuracy and precision if applied to imaging. Methods reviewed include the use of CRMs, laboratory prepared matrix matched standards, internal standardisation, online standard addition and a variety of novel approaches that makes elemental imaging accessible to a wider base of analysts. The importance of quantification and factors affecting its use in imaging will also be considered.

A Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry Method for Toxicological Analysis of MDA, MDEA and MDMA in Vitreous Humor Samples from Victims of Car Accidents

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 18-09-2018

DOI: 10.1093/JAT/BKY044

Abstract: Vitreous humor (VH) shows excellent potential as a matrix of choice for postmortem analytical toxicology due to the ease of s ling and low metabolic activity. This study demonstrates a simple and rapid analytical method to identify and quantify 3,4-methylenedioxy hetamine, 3,4-methylenedioxymeth hetamine and 3,4-methylenedioxy-ethyl hetamine in VH. S les were collected with a simple eye puncture procedure, followed by liquid-liquid extraction and derivatization with heptafluorobutyric anhydride and analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The accuracy of the method ranged 97-103%, intra-assay precision was between 4.54 and 9.14% relative standard deviation (RSD) and interassay precision ranged from 6.92 to 10.59% RSD. Limits of detection and quantification ranged from 1.0 to 2.5 ng/mL and 10 ng/mL, respectively. The validated method was successfully applied to detect methylenedioxy hetamine derivatives in VH s les collected from victims of fatal car crashes.

Quantitative elemental bio-imaging of Mn, Fe, Cu and Zn in 6-hydroxydopamine induced Parkinsonism mouse models

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2009

DOI: 10.1039/B816188G

Uptake of an online psychological therapy program (iCanADAPT-Early) when implemented within a clinical pathway in cancer care centres.

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 14-09-2022

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5808

Abstract: Providing access to an online psychological therapy program in cancer care did not result in significant uptake and engagement by patients, or referrals by cancer care professionals Despite many opportunities for referral by cancer care professionals, only 2% resulted in a referral to the program. None of these referrals were taken up Twenty five patients self‐referred, however only seven (28%) matched the recommended criteria for the program of mild to moderate psychological distress Patient engagement in the program was low, with 11/25 (44%) patients completing at least one lesson Cancer care professionals reported numerous barriers to use including patient barriers such as fatigue, and personal barriers such as forgetting to refer

An iron–dopamine index predicts risk of parkinsonian neurodegeneration in the substantia nigra pars compacta

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1039/C3SC53461H

Abstract: Imaging of iron and dopamine by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry reveals a risk index for parkinsonian neurodegeneration

Blended psychological therapy for the treatment of psychological disorders in adult patients: Systematic Review (Preprint)

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 05-06-2023

DOI: 10.2196/PREPRINTS.49660

Abstract: lending online with face-to-face psychological interventions (blended therapy) provides an opportunity to increase access to treatment, improve therapy uptake and adherence due to added flexibility for patients resulting in better therapy outcomes. However, research is scarce regarding structure, content and ratio of blended therapy components to inform future blended therapy models. his systematic review synthesises the blended therapy intervention literature to identify and assess the structure, content and ratio of face to face and online sessions presented in blended therapy models for treatment of psychological disorders in adult patients. The review also assessed intervention outcomes. sycINFO CINAHL EMBASE ProQuest MEDLINE databases were searched using keywords and MeSH terms related to blended therapy (e.g. ‘blended’ ‘face-to-face’ ‘online’ ‘psychological distress or disorder’). Review eligibility included articles published in English to March 2023 which described digital and face-to-face elements as part of one intervention plan for treating psychological disorders in adult patients. Quantitative data was analysed using narrative synthesis. A coding framework was developed to characterise the structure and content of blended therapy interventions. Qualitative data related to barriers and facilitators to blended therapy intervention implementation was thematically analysed. The review was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021258977) and followed the PRISMA guidelines. atabase searches identified 8436 articles and data was extracted from 29 studies. Structure and content distribution of blended therapy interventions were analysed and classified according to: i) mode of interaction between digital/face-to-face components (integrated vs sequential) ii) role of the components in the treatment (core vs supplementary) iii) mode of component delivery (alternate vs case-by-case) and iv) digital materials assignment mode (standardised vs personalised). Our findings suggest that a blended intervention presenting integrated alternate core and standardised design provides an optimal balance between effectiveness and engagement. Most studies (n=24) reported data for blended therapy interventions based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy approaches for treatment of anxiety and/or depression. Blended therapy was reported to be more effective or non-inferior to face-to-face treatment, with high working alliance high patient satisfaction high uptake and adherence rates. his review confirmed blended therapy models with face to face and online components integrated into treatment and delivered in an alternating presentation are both feasible to deliver and result in higher patient adherence to treatment. Future studies assessing outcomes across different psychological disorders and therapeutic approaches are required.

Factors influencing the choice of buffer in background electrolytes for indirect detection of fast anions by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 09-1998

DOI: 10.1002/ELPS.1150191235

Abstract: The suitability of relatively slow (low absolute value of mobility) coanionic buffers in background electrolytes (BGEs) for indirect photometric detection of anions by capillary electrophoresis was investigated. As a model system, 2-(cyclohexylamino)ethanesulfonic acid (CHES) was used to buffer the indirect detection electrolyte of sodium chromate. CHES (PKa 9.55) is a zwitterionic molecule carrying a net negative charge depending on the pH (effective charge -0.5 at pH = pKa). Within its useful pH buffering range CHES acted as a competing probe coanion. System peaks were induced which had deleterious effects on the detection sensitivity of slow to medium mobility anions. The mobility of the system peak was determined by the effective mobility of CHES, both of which increased with increasing pH. The peaks of analytes that migrated near or on the system peak were distorted and lost all quantitative properties. Analytes that migrated after the system peak either were not detected or reversed their responses. Analytes that migrated well before the system peak were unaffected. Consequently, the suitability of slow coanionic buffers is limited either to (i) fast anions or, (ii) a pH range much below the PKa, where the buffering capacity is not optimal.

Improving acquisition times of elemental bio-imaging for quadrupole-based LA-ICP-MS

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2012

DOI: 10.1039/C1JA10301F

A portable explosive detector based on fluorescence quenching of pyrene deposited on coloured wax-printed μPADs

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1039/C3LC50609F

Abstract: A new technique for the detection of explosives has been developed based on fluorescence quenching of pyrene on paper-based analytical devices (μPADs). Wax barriers were generated (150 °C, 5 min) using ten different colours. Magenta was found as the most suitable wax colour for the generation of the hydrophobic barriers with a nominal width of 120 μm resulting in fully functioning hydrophobic barriers. One microliter of 0.5 mg mL(-1) pyrene dissolved in an 80:20 methanol-water solution was deposited on the hydrophobic circle (5 mm diameter) to produce the active microchip device. Under ultra-violet (UV) illumination, ten different organic explosives were detected using the μPAD, with limits of detection ranging from 100-600 ppm. A prototype of a portable battery operated instrument using a 3 W power UV light-emitting-diode (LED) (365 nm) and a photodiode sensor was also built and evaluated for the successful automatic detection of explosives and potential application for field-based screening.

Optimisation of the separation of herbicides by linear gradient high performance liquid chromatography utilising artificial neural networks

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 02-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.TALANTA.2006.06.031

Abstract: An artificial neural network (ANN) was employed to model the chromatographic response surface for the linear gradient separation of 10 herbicides that are commonly detected in storm run-off water in agricultural catchments. The herbicides (dicamba, simazine, 2,4-D, MCPA, triclopyr, atrazine, diuron, clomazone, bensulfuron-methyl and metolachlor) were separated using reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography and detected with a photodiode array detector. The ANN was trained using the pH of the mobile phase and the slope of the acetonitrile/water gradient as input variables. A total of nine experiments were required to generate sufficient data to train the ANN to accurately describe the retention times of each of the herbicides within a defined experimental space of mobile phase pH range 3.0-4.8 and linear gradient slope 1-4% acetonitrile/min. The modelled chromatographic response surface was then used to determine the optimum separation within the experimental space. This approach allowed the rapid determination of experimental conditions for baseline resolution of all 10 herbicides. Illustrative ex les of determination of these components in Milli-Q water, Sydney mains water and natural water s les spiked at 0.5-1mug/L are shown. Recoveries were over 70% for solid-phase extraction using Waters Oasis((R)) HLB 6cm(3) cartridges.

Caregiver fear of cancer recurrence: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of quantitative studies

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 11-06-2023

DOI: 10.1002/PON.6176

Abstract: Fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) is reported by both cancer survivors and caregivers however less is known about caregiver FCR. This study aimed to (a) conduct a meta‐analysis to compare survivor and caregiver FCR levels (b) examine the relationship between caregiver FCR and depression, and anxiety (c) evaluate psychometric properties of caregiver FCR measures. CINAHL, Embase, PsychINFO and PubMed were searched for quantitative research examining caregiver FCR. Eligibility criteria included caregivers caring for a survivor with any type of cancer, reporting on caregiver FCR and/or measurement, published in English‐language, peer‐review journals between 1997 and November 2022. The COnsensus‐based Standards for the selection of health status Measurement INstruments (COSMIN) taxonomy was used to evaluate content and psychometric properties. The review was pre‐registered (PROSPERO ID: CRD42020201906). Of 4297 records screened, 45 met criteria for inclusion. Meta‐analysis revealed that caregivers reported FCR levels as high as FCR amongst survivors, with around 48% of caregivers reporting clinically significant FCR levels. There was a strong correlation between anxiety and depression and medium correlation with survivor FCR. Twelve different instruments were used to measure caregiver FCR. Assessments using the COSMIN taxonomy revealed few instruments had undergone appropriate development and psychometric testing. Only one instrument met 50% or more of the criteria, indicating substantial development or validation components were missing in most. Results suggest FCR is as often a problem for caregivers as it is for survivors. As in survivors, caregiver FCR is associated with more severe depression and anxiety. Caregiver FCR measurement has predominately relied on survivor conceptualisations and unvalidated measures. More caregiver‐specific research is urgently needed.

High-Resolution Elemental Bioimaging of Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, and Zn Employing LA-ICP-MS and Hydrogen Reaction Gas

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 09-07-2012

DOI: 10.1021/AC301156F

Abstract: Imaging of trace metal distribution in tissue sections by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) is typically performed using spatial resolutions of 30 μm(2) and above. Higher resolution imaging is desirable for many biological applications in order to approach the dimensions of a single cell. The limiting factor for increasing resolution is sensitivity, where signal-to-noise ratios are poor due to inherent background spectral interferences and reduced s le volume with decreasing laser beam diameter. Several prominent spectral interferences are present for a number of biologically relevant isotopes, including the (40)Ar(16)O(+) spectral interference on (56)Fe(+). We examined if H(2) as a reaction gas could improve the analytical performance of imaging experiments for a range of masses with spectral interferences. At low (<1 mL min(-1)) H(2) flow rates, greater spectral interference due to H(+) adducts was observed for (55)Mn, (57)Fe, and (59)Co. At higher flow rates of up to 3 mL H(2) per minute, the spectral interferences were reduced leading to improvement in limits of analysis for masses with O- and N-based polyatomic interferences. Enhanced sensitivity with the reaction cell allowed construction of high resolution (6 μm(2)) imaging of (56)Fe in the mouse brain that approached the dimensions of single cells.

Are psychological interventions effective on anxiety in cancer patients? A systematic review and meta‐analyses

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 16-07-2018

DOI: 10.1002/PON.4794

Abstract: The aims of this meta-analysis were to estimate the overall effect size (ES) of psychological interventions on anxiety in patients with cancer and extract s le and intervention characteristics that influence effectiveness. PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Embase, Medline, and CINAHL were searched using Medical Subject Heading keywords 'cancer' AND 'anxiety' AND 'psychological intervention' AND 'counselling' AND 'psycho*' AND 'psychotherapy' AND 'psychosocial' AND 'therapy' between January 1993 and June 2017. Seventy-one studies were eligible for the systematic review among them, 51 studies were included in the meta-analysis calculations. The overall ES was -0.21 (95% confidence interval -0.30 to -0.13) in favour of the intervention. From subgroup analyses, studies conducted in Asia, enrolling inpatients, focussing on relaxation, of <6-week intervention duration, <30-minute intervention dose per session, and <4 hours of total time of intervention showed moderate ESs ranging from -0.40 to -0.55. Only 2 studies restricted enrolment to prescreened patients with clinically elevated level of anxiety and showed moderate ES of -0.58. Low psychological distress at baseline and nonevidence-based interventions were the main factors identified for low effectiveness. Screening and assessment to determine clinical levels of anxiety in patients with cancer should be considered in future trials as an inclusion criterion before providing psychological interventions. Systematic review registration: PROSPERO: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: CRD42017056132.

Magnetic resonance imaging of the pancreas in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats: Gadofluorine P and Gd-DOTA

Publisher: Baishideng Publishing Group Inc.

Date: 21-05-2015

DOI: 10.3748/WJG.V21.I19.5831

Developments in sample preparation and separation techniques for the determination of inorganic ions by ion chromatography and capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 09-1999

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(99)00431-8

Abstract: A review is presented of s le preparation and separation techniques for the determination of inorganic ions by ion chromatography (IC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE). Emphasis has been placed on those s le treatment methods which are specific to inorganic analysis, and the developments in separation methods which are discussed are those which enhance the capabilities of IC and CE to handle complex s le matrices. Topics discussed include solid-phase extraction for s le clean-up and preconcentration, dialytic methods, combustion methods, matrix-elimination IC, electrostatic IC, electrically polarised ion-exchange resins, electromigration s le preparation in CE, chromatographic s le preparation for CE, use of high-ionic strength background electrolytes, buffering of background electrolytes in CE, use of capillary electrochromatography for inorganic determinations, and methods for the manipulation of separation selectivity in both IC and CE. Finally, some possible future trends are discussed.

Quantitative multiplexed analysis of MMP-11 and CD45 in metastatic breast cancer tissues by immunohistochemistry-assisted LA–ICP–MS

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1093/MTOMCS/MFAC052

Abstract: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in woman and tremendous efforts are undertaken to limit its dissemination and to provide effective treatment. Various histopathological parameters are routinely assessed in breast cancer biopsies to provide valuable diagnostic and prognostic information. MMP-11 and CD45 are tumor-associated antigens and potentially valuable biomarkers for grading aggressiveness and metastatic probability. This paper presents methods for quantitative and multiplexed imaging of MMP-11 and CD45 in breast cancer tissues and investigates their potential for improved cancer characterization and patient stratification. An immunohistochemistry-assisted laser ablation–inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry (LA–ICP–MS) method was successfully developed and optimized using lanthanide-tagged monoclonal antibodies as proxies to determine spatial distributions and concentrations of the two breast cancer biomarkers. The labeling degree of antibodies was determined via size exclusion–ICP–tandem mass spectrometry (SEC–ICP–MS/MS) employing online calibration via post-column isotope dilution analysis (IDA). The calibration of spatial distributions of labeled lanthanides in tissues was performed by ablating mold-prepared gelatin standards spiked with element standards. Knowledge of labeling degrees enabled the translation of lanthanide concentrations into biomarkers concentrations. The k-means clustering was used to select tissue areas for statistical analysis and mean concentrations were compared for sets of metastatic, non-metastatic and healthy s les. MMP-11 was expressed in stroma surrounding tumor areas, while CD45 was predominantly found inside tumor areas with high cell density. There was no significant correlation between CD45 and metastasis (P = 0.70) however, MMP-11 was significantly up-regulated (202%) in metastatic s les compared to non-metastatic (P = 0.0077) and healthy tissues (P = 0.0087).

On-line reverse isotope dilution analysis for spatial quantification of elemental labels used in immunohistochemical assisted imaging mass spectrometry via LA-ICP-MS

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2019

DOI: 10.1039/C8JA00324F

Abstract: We present a novel on-line isotope dilution analysis (IDA) approach for the quantification of isotopically enriched metal labels used in immunohistochemical assisted imaging mass spectrometry.

A rapid method for the in-field analysis of amphetamines employing the Agilent Bioanalyzer

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2011

DOI: 10.1039/C1AY05078H

Measuring female breast cancer survivors’ concerns about late effects of treatment: initial development of the Concerns about Late Effects in Oncology Questionnaire (CLEO)

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 13-01-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-021-06740-6

Abstract: While an increasing number of women are surviving breast cancer, survivors remain at risk of developing late effects. Late effects are long-term side effects which may emerge months to years after completing active treatment. Survivors may experience chronic worry and concern about the unpredictable and debilitating nature of late effects. This qualitative study aimed to explore the content validity of items included in the first patient-reported outcome measure (PROM) to quantify survivors' concerns about late effects: the Concerns about Late Effects in Oncology Questionnaire (CLEO). Items included in the CLEO were informed by a literature review and consultation with expert stakeholders. Breast cancer survivors completed "think aloud" interviews to explore the perceived acceptability, relevance, clarity, and feasibility of the CLEO. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using framework analysis. Twenty-eight participants were interviewed. Participants indicated the CLEO was acceptable, relevant to women's experiences of late effects, and easy to use and understand. Of the 55 proposed items, participants endorsed 33 items across six domains and suggested to include one additional item. These findings suggest the CLEO captured concerns relevant to breast cancer survivors and provides initial validation of items for inclusion in the CLEO. The CLEO may improve communication about late effects in clinical settings and prompt future research into evidence-based interventions for survivors. Future research should assess the relevance of the CLEO items to other cancer populations. The psychometric properties of the CLEO will be evaluated in future stages of questionnaire development.

Elemental Analysis of Aging Human Pituitary Glands Implicates Mercury as a Contributor to the Somatopause.

Publisher: Frontiers Media SA

Date: 26-06-2019

DOI: 10.3389/FENDO.2019.00419

Decreased Plasma Iron in Alzheimer’s Disease Is Due to Transferrin Desaturation

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 23-01-2015

DOI: 10.1021/CN5003557

Abstract: Plasma iron levels are decreased in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and associated with an idiopathic anemia. We examined iron-binding plasma proteins from AD patients and healthy controls from the Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AIBL) Flagship Study of Ageing using size exclusion chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Peak area corresponding to transferrin (Tf) saturation was directly compared to routine pathological testing. We found a significant decrease in transferrin-associated iron in AD that was missed by routine pathological tests of transferrin saturation, and that was able to discriminate between AD and controls. The AD cases showed no significant difference in transferrin concentration, only a decrease in total transferrin-bound iron. These findings support that a previously identified decrease in plasma iron levels in AD patients within the AIBL study is attributable to decreased loading of iron into transferrin, and that this subtle but discriminatory change is not observed through routine pathological testing.

An integrated mass spectrometry imaging and digital pathology workflow for objective detection of colorectal tumours by unique atomic signatures

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2021

DOI: 10.1039/D1SC02237G

Abstract: Digital pathology and laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) imaging reveals a unique elemental signature of colorectal cancer.

Microfluidic high performance liquid chromatography-chip hyphenation to inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2017

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHROMA.2017.03.025

Abstract: The Agilent Chip Cube Interface is a microfluidic chip-based technology originally designed for nanospray molecular mass spectrometry in which the s le enrichment, nano-column, tubing, connectors and spray tip were integrated into a single biocompatible chip. Here we describe the hyphenation of the Chip Cube Interface to ICP-MS via modification of the standard HPLC chip design and a new total consumption nebuliser suitable for flow rates as low as 300nLmin

Separation and determination of niobium(V) and tantalum(V) as 2-(5-bromo-2-pyridylazo)-5-[N-propyl-N-(3-sulfopropyl)amino]phenol citrate ternary complexes in geological samples using ion interaction h

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2000

DOI: 10.1016/S0003-2670(99)00815-6

The novel compound PBT434 prevents iron mediated neurodegeneration and alpha-synuclein toxicity in multiple models of Parkinson’s disease

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 28-06-2017

DOI: 10.1186/S40478-017-0456-2

Abstract: Elevated iron in the SNpc may play a key role in Parkinson’s disease (PD) neurodegeneration since drug candidates with high iron affinity rescue PD animal models, and one candidate, deferirpone, has shown efficacy recently in a phase two clinical trial. However, strong iron chelators may perturb essential iron metabolism, and it is not yet known whether the damage associated with iron is mediated by a tightly bound (eg ferritin) or lower-affinity, labile, iron pool. Here we report the preclinical characterization of PBT434, a novel quinazolinone compound bearing a moderate affinity metal-binding motif, which is in development for Parkinsonian conditions. In vitro, PBT434 was far less potent than deferiprone or deferoxamine at lowering cellular iron levels, yet was found to inhibit iron-mediated redox activity and iron-mediated aggregation of α-synuclein, a protein that aggregates in the neuropathology . In vivo, PBT434 did not deplete tissue iron stores in normal rodents, yet prevented loss of substantia nigra pars compacta neurons (SNpc), lowered nigral α-synuclein accumulation, and rescued motor performance in mice exposed to the Parkinsonian toxins 6-OHDA and MPTP, and in a transgenic animal model (hA53T α-synuclein) of PD. These improvements were associated with reduced markers of oxidative damage, and increased levels of ferroportin (an iron exporter) and DJ-1. We conclude that compounds designed to target a pool of pathological iron that is not held in high-affinity complexes in the tissue can maintain the survival of SNpc neurons and could be disease-modifying in PD.

Lab-on-a-chip screening of methamphetamine and pseudoephedrine in samples from clandestine laboratories

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 05-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.FORSCIINT.2013.01.036

Abstract: The clandestine manufacture of meth hetamine in New Zealand predominantly involves the reduction of pseudoephedrine, extracted from pharmaceutical preparations, using hydrogen iodide. This method of illicit manufacture leaves a variety of materials at the scene that are a rich source of information. Efficient processing and preliminary identification of extraction and reaction mixtures, precursors and products is essential to minimise exposure to potential hazardous materials and to provide investigative and intelligence information. In this study, we employed a portable lab-on-a-chip instrument for the rapid and cost effective screening of meth hetamine, pseudoephedrine and ephedrine in a variety of s le types found in typical clandestine laboratory scenarios.

Determination of selenium in serum in the presence of gadolinium with ICP-QQQ-MS

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C4AN02283A

Abstract: Triple–quadrupole ICP-MS using O 2 mass-shift technology is superior for removing gadolinium interference on selenium in serum.

Trace elemental imaging of coralline hydroxyapatite by laser-ablation inductively coupled plasma-mass spectroscopy

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 08-2012

DOI: 10.1002/TERM.1544

Abstract: The determination of trace element concentrations, as well as their distribution in different biomaterials aimed for clinical applications, is a challenging task in both the areas of biological and materials research. In this research, LA-ICP-MS was employed for image mapping of the trace element distribution in a hydrothermally converted coralline hydroxyapatite material aimed for tissue-scaffolding applications. Quantification using synthetic matrix-matched standards was successfully applied for the determination and distribution of elements of interest, Sr and Mg, that influences the mechanical and biological properties of hydroxyapatite-based bone graft materials. The results showed that the instrument can successfully analyse trace elements and a relatively good image can be produced that identifies their distribution. The LA-ICP-MS method can provide an easy and effective tool, in the field of biomaterials with respect to distribution of trace elements, to better understand tissue-implant interactions, and will open up a new window for in vitro and in vivo analysis and imaging of different tissues and structures.

What information is communicated by radiation therapists to patients during education sessions on the first day of treatment?

Publisher: Hindawi Limited

Date: 11-09-2019

DOI: 10.1111/ECC.12911

Abstract: This study examined the content covered by radiation therapists (RTs) during education sessions the frequency and types of questions asked by patients and the relationship between patient characteristics and the number of questions asked. Fifty-eight education sessions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A coding scheme was developed to examine the frequency of topics covered. It comprised 16 topics under four themes: (a) treatment schedule, (b) procedural information, (c) treatment-related side effects and (d) who will be involved in treatment provision. All education sessions covered information about the treatment plan (n = 58, 100%), and the majority described procedural information about what happens in the treatment room (n = 56, 97%). Least information was given about who will be providing treatment. On average, patients asked a mean of 6 questions (SD = 4.95 range = 0-28). Most frequently asked questions concerned the general treatment (logistics, schedule), accounting for 67% of all questions asked. The least common types of questions were related to the impact of treatment (6%). There were no statistically significant differences in the total number of questions and patient demographics. Patients are provided with most, but not all, of the recommended information. Tailoring of information by RTs was enabled in response to questions asked.

Exploring chip-capillary electrophoresis-laser-induced fluorescence field-deployable platform flexibility: Separations of fluorescent dyes by chip-based non-aqueous capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 04-2013

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHROMA.2013.02.060

Abstract: Microfluidic chip electrophoresis (chip-CE) is a separation method that is compatible with portable and on-site analysis, however, only few commercial chip-CE systems with laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and light emitting diode (LED) fluorescence detection are available. They are established for several application tailored methods limited to specific biopolymers (DNA, RNA and proteins), and correspondingly the range of their applications has been limited. In this work we address the lack of commercially available research-type flexible chip-CE platforms by exploring the limits of using an application-tailored system equipped with chips and methods designed for DNA separations as a generic chip-CE platform - this is a very significant issue that has not been widely studied. In the investigated Agilent Bioanalyzer chip-CE system, the fixed components are the Agilent chips and the detection (LIF at 635 nm and LEDIF at 470 nm), while the chemistry (electrolyte) and the programming of all the high voltages are flexible. Using standard DNA chips, we show that a generic CE function of the system is easily possible and we demonstrate an extension of the applicability to non-aqueous CE (NACE). We studied the chip compatibility with organic solvents (i.e. MeOH, ACN, DMF and DMSO) and demonstrated the chip compatibility with DMSO as a non-volatile and non-hazardous solvent with satisfactory stability of migration times over 50h. The generic CE capability is illustrated with separations of fluorescent basic blue dyes methylene blue (MB), toluidine blue (TB), nile blue (NB) and brilliant cresyl blue (BC). Further, the effects of the composition of the background electrolyte (BGE) on the separation were studied, including the contents of water (0-30%) and buffer composition. In background electrolytes containing typically 80 mmol/L ammonium acetate and 870 mmol/L acetic acid in 100% DMSO baseline separation of the dyes were achieved in 40s. Linearity was documented in the range of 5-28 μmol/L, 10-100 μmol/L, 1.56-50 nmol/L and 5-75 nmol/L (r(2) values in the range 0.974-0.999), and limit of detection (LOD) values were 90 nmol/L, 1 μmol/L 1.4 nmol/L, and 2 nmol/L for MB, TB, NB and BC, respectively.

Applications of liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry in the biosciences: A tutorial review and recent developments

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2018

DOI: 10.1016/J.TRAC.2017.09.017

On-line preconcentration of niobium(V) and tantalum(V) as 4-(2-pyridylazo) resorcinol–citrate ternary complexes in geological samples by ion interaction high-performance liquid chromatography

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 07-2000

DOI: 10.1016/S0021-9673(99)01159-0

Abstract: 4-(2-Pyridylazo) resorcinol (PAR) and citrate were used as pre-column complexing agents for the determination of Nb(V) and Ta(V) as ternary complexes in geological s les. Aliquots of 2 ml of the standard and s le solutions containing the Nb(V) and Ta(V) complexes were loaded onto a concentrator column (C18, 0.4 cm x 4.6 mm) with a carrier mobile phase comprising 20% (v/v) methanol and containing 5 mM acetic acid, 5 mM citric acid and 10 mM tetrabutylammonium bromide (TBABr), pH 6.5 at 2 ml/min for 2 min, with the effluent being directed to waste. An automatic switching valve was then switched to flush both complexes from the concentrator column onto a C18 analytical column using a mobile phase comprising 32% (v/v) methanol and containing 5 mM acetic acid, 5 mM citric acid and 3 mM TBABr, pH 6.5 for 2.5 min. The switching valve was then switched back to the original position, and cleaned with methanol for 7 min to eliminate unwanted species still adsorbed to the concentrator column. This procedure prevented later eluting compounds from reaching the analytical column, which reduced the overall run time. The detection limits of Nb(V) and Ta(V) (determined at a signal-to-noise ratio of 3, detection wavelength of 540 nm and a 2-ml s le volume) were 0.012 and 0.039 ppb for Nb(V) and Ta(V), respectively. Recoveries of Nb(V) and Ta(V) were 99.4 and 96.2%, respectively. The HPLC results obtained from the reference granite and basalt s les agreed well with inductively coupled plasma MS and certified values, but the HPLC method yielded slightly low values of the Nb/Ta ratio.

Imaging metals in brain tissue by laser ablation - Inductively coupled plasma - Mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS)

Publisher: MyJove Corporation

Date: 22-01-2017

DOI: 10.3791/55042

A guide to integrating immunohistochemistry and chemical imaging

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/C7CS00610A

Abstract: A ‘how-to’ guide for designing chemical imaging experiments using antibodies and immunohistochemistry.

Laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry imaging of white and gray matter iron distribution in Alzheimer's disease frontal cortex

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 08-2016

DOI: 10.1016/J.NEUROIMAGE.2016.05.057

Abstract: Iron deposition in the brain is a feature of normal aging, though in several neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, the rate of iron accumulation is more advanced than in age-matched controls. Using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry imaging we present here a pilot study that quantitatively assessed the iron content of white and gray matter in paraffin-embedded sections from the frontal cortex of Alzheimer's and control subjects. Using the phosphorus image as a confirmed proxy for the white/gray matter boundary, we found that increased intrusion of iron into gray matter occurs in the Alzheimer's brain compared to controls, which may be indicative of either a loss of iron homeostasis in this vulnerable brain region, or provide evidence of increased inflammatory processes as a response to chronic neurodegeneration. We also observed a trend of increasing iron within the white matter of the frontal cortex, potentially indicative of disrupted iron metabolism preceding loss of myelin integrity. Considering the known potential toxicity of excessive iron in the brain, our results provide supporting evidence for the continuous development of novel magnetic resonance imaging approaches for assessing white and gray matter iron accumulation in Alzheimer's disease.

The untold story of late effects: a qualitative analysis of breast cancer survivors’ emotional responses to late effects

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 10-07-2022

DOI: 10.1007/S00520-021-06402-7

SEC-ICP-MS and on-line isotope dilution analysis for characterisation and quantification of immunochemical assays.

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 27-04-2019

DOI: 10.1007/S00216-019-01836-9

Abstract: This study presents a novel size exclusion chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (SEC-ICP-MS) method for the characterisation and quantification of immunoassays with lanthanide-labelled antibodies. SEC-ICP-MS in combination with a double isotope dilution approach enabled facile validation of the antibodies' integrity, the determination of the batch to batch labelling efficiency, monitoring of each labelling step, and quantification of the immunocomplexes after incubation with the target protein. The addition of oxygen into the dynamic reaction cell improved the detection of sulphur as a marker for the antibodies and target protein via mass-shifting (LOD = 3.7 ng/mL), whilst maintaining sufficient sensitivity for the analysis of the lanthanides. Ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) SEC ensured a rapid chromatographic method with separation times under 7 min of the labelled and unlabelled antibodies, the immunocomplexes, and the unconjugated polymer used to lanthanide-label the antibodies. SEC calibration estimated the molecular weights of all peaks and provided valuable insights in immunochemical reactions and the stoichiometry of the reactants and products. A novel on-line isotope dilution analysis (IDA) enabled absolute quantification of sulphur and lanthanide signals and the protein of interest. The chromatographic separation of immunocomplexes and labelled antibodies allowed the simultaneous determination of the antibody/metal stoichiometry and target protein concentration from a single mass flow chromatogram. An immunoglobulin protein was quantified after incubation with an

The effect of paraformaldehyde fixation and sucrose cryoprotection on metal concentration in murine neurological tissue

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2014

DOI: 10.1039/C3JA50281C

Malignant Glioma: MR Imaging by Using 5-Aminolevulinic Acid in an Animal Model

Publisher: Radiological Society of North America (RSNA)

Date: 09-2014

DOI: 10.1148/RADIOL.14131459

Abstract: To evaluate the use of 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) for the noninvasive detection of malignant gliomas by using in vivo magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in a mouse brain tumor model. The experiments were animal care committee approved. U-87 glioblastoma cells were exposed to 5-ALA (500 µmol/L) for 6 hours, cells were harvested, and intracellular concentrations of iron, heme, protoporphyrin IX, and ferrochelatase were measured (six in each group). BALB/c nude mice (n = 10) were inoculated with U-87 glioma cells to produce orthotopic brain tumors. T2-weighted imaging was performed 3 weeks after inoculation, and T2* maps were created with a 7-T MR imager before and 24 hours after oral administration of 5-ALA (0.1 mg/g of body weight n = 6) or normal saline (n = 4). Intratumoral iron concentrations were measured with laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. For in vitro experiments, differences in the measured data were assessed by using the Mann-Whitney U test with Bonferroni correction. For the in vivo studies, differences in T2* values and iron concentrations of the tumors in the 5-ALA and control groups were assessed by using the Mann-Whitney U test. The intracellular concentration of heme and iron was increased at both 24 and 48 hours after 5-ALA exposure (P = .004). 5-ALA promoted expression of ferrochelatase in glioblastoma cells at both 24 and 48 hours after 5-ALA exposure compared with that at 1 hour (P = .004). In vivo MR imaging revealed a lower median T2* value in glioblastomas treated with 5-ALA compared with those in control mice (14.0 msec [interquartile range, 13.0-14.5 msec] vs 21.9 msec [interquartile range, 19.6-23.2 msec] P = .011), and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry revealed that iron concentrations were increased in glioblastomas from the 5-ALA group. Administration of 5-ALA increased the intracellular iron concentration of glioblastomas by promoting the synthesis of heme, which is the metabolite of 5-ALA. Because intracellular iron can be detected at MR imaging, 5-ALA may aid in the identification of high-grade foci in gliomas.

Randomised controlled trial of internet-delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for clinical depression and/or anxiety in cancer survivors (iCanADAPT Early)

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 12-11-2019

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5267

Abstract: To evaluate internet-delivered cognitive behavioural therapy (iCBT) on clinical depression and/or anxiety, distress, fear of cancer recurrence, and quality of life in cancer survivors. Random assignation of 114 participants to iCBT or treatment-as-usual (TAU). The clinician-supervised iCBT program (iCanADAPT Early) consisted of eight lessons over 16 weeks. Self-report questionnaires occurred at baseline, midpoint, and posttreatment for both groups with 3-month follow-up for iCBT participants. A mixed modelling approach to compare groups occurred. iCBT was superior to TAU on all outcome measures at posttreatment. Compared with TAU, the iCBT group showed a significant decrease over time in anxiety and depression symptoms (primary outcome, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Hedges g = 1.51). Additionally the iCBT group had significantly lower general distress (Kessler-10, g = 1.56), fear of cancer recurrence (Fear of Cancer Recurrence Inventory, g = 0.39), and significantly higher quality of life (Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy-General, g = 0.74) at posttreatment compared with the TAU group. High adherence and satisfaction were found for iCBT with low clinician time. Clinician-supervised iCBT has significant benefits for cancer survivors with clinical depression and anxiety disorders.

Separation of intact proteins by capillary electrophoresis

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2022

DOI: 10.1039/D2AN00474G

Abstract: This work introduces novel and universal workflows for the analysis of intact proteins by capillary electrophoresis and presents guidelines for the targeted selection of appropriate background electrolytes (BGEs) by consideration of the target proteins' isoelectric point (pI). The suitability of neutral dimethyl polysiloxane (PDMS) capillaries with dynamic coatings of cationic cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) or anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), and bare fused silica (BFS) capillaries were systematically evaluated for the analysis of histidine and seven model proteins in six BGEs with pH values between 3.0 and 9.6. Multiple capillary and BGE combinations were suitable for the analysis of all proteins with molecular weights ranging from 13.7-150 kDa, and pIs between 4.7 and 9.6. The CTAB-PDMS capillary was best suited for low pH BGEs, while the SDS-PDMS and BFS capillary were superior for high pH BGEs. These combinations consistently resulted in sharp peak shapes and rapid migration times. pH values of BGEs closer to the proteins' pI produced poorer peak shapes and decreased effective mobilities due to suppressed ionisation. Plots of mobility

Spatial distribution of manganese in enamel and coronal dentine of human primary teeth

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2011

DOI: 10.1016/J.SCITOTENV.2010.12.018

Abstract: Emerging evidence indicates that excessive exposure to manganese (Mn) during the prenatal period and early childhood may result in neurodevelopmental deficits. However, accurate exposure biomarkers are not well established, limiting our understanding of exposure-response relationships over these susceptible periods of development. Naturally shed deciduous teeth are potentially a useful biomarker of environmental exposure to Mn. However, the uptake and distribution of Mn in human teeth has not been studied in detail. Mn distribution was measured at high resolution (~20 μm) in eight human primary teeth using laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. A bio-imaging methodology was applied to construct detailed elemental maps of three incisors, and bone meal (NIST SRM 1486) was used to validate the analyses. The distribution of Mn in enamel and coronal dentine showed a distinct and reproducible pattern. In enamel, the ⁵⁵Mn:⁴³Ca ratio was highest at the outer edge of enamel (range=0.57 to 4.74) for approximately 20-40 μm but was substantially lower in deeper layers (range=0.005 to 0.013). The highest levels of Mn were observed in dentine immediately adjacent the pulpal margin (⁵⁵Mn:⁴³Ca range=2.27 to 6.95). Importantly, a clearly demarcated high Mn zone was observed in dentine at the incisal end of the teeth. Using confocal laser scanning microscopy to visualize the neonatal line, this region was identified as being in the prenatally formed dentine. The high-resolution map of the spatial distribution of Mn in human primary teeth highlighted specific reproducible patterns of Mn distribution in enamel and coronal dentine.

Coupling Paper-Based Microfluidics and Lab on a Chip Technologies for Confirmatory Analysis of Trinitro Aromatic Explosives

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 05-05-2014

DOI: 10.1021/AC403062Y

Abstract: A new microfluidic paper-based analytical device (μPAD) in conjunction with confirmation by a lab on chip analysis was developed for detection of three trinitro aromatic explosives. Potassium hydroxide was deposited on the μPADs (0.5 μL, 1.5 M), creating a color change reaction when explosives are present, with detection limits of approximately 7.5 ± 1.0 ng for TNB, 12.5 ± 2.0 ng for TNT and 15.0 ± 2.0 ng for tetryl. For confirmatory analysis, positive μPADs were s led using a 5 mm hole-punch, followed by extraction of explosives from the punched chad in 30 s using 20 μL borate/SDS buffer. The extractions had efficiencies of 96.5 ± 1.7%. The extracted explosives were then analyzed with the Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer lab on a chip device with minimum detectable amounts of 3.8 ± 0.1 ng for TNB, 7.0 ± 0.9 ng for TNT, and 4.7 ± 0.2 ng for tetryl. A simulated in-field scenario demonstrated the feasibility of coupling the μPAD technique with the lab on a chip device to detect and identify 1 μg of explosives distributed on a surface of 100 cm(2).

Implementing Web-Based Therapy in Routine Mental Health Care: Systematic Review of Health Professionals’ Perspectives

Publisher: JMIR Publications Inc.

Date: 23-07-2020

DOI: 10.2196/17362

Abstract: Web-based therapies hold great promise to increase accessibility and reduce costs of delivering mental health care however, uptake in routine settings has been low. Our objective in this review was to summarize what is known about health care professionals’ perceptions of the barriers to and facilitators of the implementation of web-based psychological treatments in routine care of adults in health care settings. We searched 5 major databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Library) for qualitative, quantitative, or mixed-methods studies exploring health professionals’ views on computer- or internet-based psychological treatment programs. We coded included articles for risk of bias and extracted data using a prepiloted extraction sheet. We identified 29 eligible articles: 14 qualitative, 11 quantitative, and 4 mixed methods. We identified the following themes: patient factors, health professional factors, the therapeutic relationship, therapy factors, organizational and system factors, and models of care. Health professionals supported web-based therapies only for patients with relatively straightforward, low-risk diagnoses, strong motivation and engagement, high computer literacy and access, and low need for tailored content. They perceived flexibility with timing and location as advantages of web-based therapy, but preferred blended therapy to facilitate rapport and allow active monitoring and follow-up of patients. They emphasized the need for targeted training and organizational support to manage changed workflows. Health professionals were concerned about the confidentiality and security of client data for web-based programs, suggesting that clear and transparent protocols need to be in place to reassure health professionals before they will be willing to refer. Without health professionals’ support, many people will not access web-based therapies. To increase uptake, it is important to ensure that health professionals receive education, familiarization, and training to support them in incorporating web-based therapies into their practice, and to design systems that support health professionals in this new way of working with patients and addressing their concerns. PROSPERO CRD42018100869 5vaoqsk

Thin films of ruthenium phthalocyanine complexes

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 09-2009

DOI: 10.1007/S12274-009-9071-2

Matching sensitivity to abundance: high resolution immuno-mass spectrometry imaging of lanthanide labels and endogenous elements in the murine brain

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2020

DOI: 10.1039/C9JA00405J

Abstract: This work introduces a new method for immuno-mass spectrometry imaging via quadrupole-based laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry instruments that is matched to the abundance of elements in biological tissues.

Micro solid-phase extraction for the analysis of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in environmental waters

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2019

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHROMA.2019.460495

Abstract: Growing concern over the environmental and health impacts of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) has led to the development of increasingly stringent regulatory guidelines. To meet these guidelines for the determination of PFASs in surface-water, solid-phase extraction (SPE) is commonly implemented for clean-up and pre-concentration of s les. In this paper a micro-SPE method for the clean-up and pre-concentration of PFASs from surface-water was developed. A micro-SPE packing phase was created to retain 13 long and short chain PFAS after examining combinations of four 3 µm particle size sorbents, with the optimal phase consisting of a 50:50 mixture of C18 and aminopropyl silica. Micro-SPE achieved similar results to conventional SPE methods while reducing s le preparation time to 5 min and using only 2 mL of s le. The method was validated using spiked recoveries (100 ng L

Confirmation of sentinel lymph node identity by analysis of fine-needle biopsy samples using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 03-01-2008

DOI: 10.1245/S10434-007-9693-0

Determination of commonly used polar herbicides in agricultural drainage waters in Australia by HPLC

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 03-2007

DOI: 10.1016/J.CHEMOSPHERE.2006.11.002

Abstract: The present study describes the application of different extraction techniques for the preconcentration of ten commonly found acidic and non-acidic polar herbicides (2,4-D, atrazine, bensulfuron-methyl, clomazone, dicamba, diuron, MCPA, metolachlor, simazine and triclopyr) in the aqueous environment. Liquid-liquid extraction (LLE) with dichloromethane, solid-phase extraction (SPE) using Oasis HLB cartridges or SBD-XC Empore disks were compared for extraction efficiency of these herbicides in different matrices, especially water s les from contaminated agricultural drainage water containing high concentrations of particulate matter. Herbicides were separated and quantified by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with an ultraviolet detector. SPE using SDB-XC Empore disks was applied to determine target herbicides in the Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area (NSW, Australia) during a two-week survey from October 2005 to November 2005. The daily aqueous concentrations of herbicides from 24-h composite s les detected at two sites increased after run-off from a storm event and were in the range of: 0.1-17.8 microg l(-1), < 0.1-0.9 microg l(-1) and 0.2-17.8 microg l(-1) at site 1 < 0.1-3.5 microg l(-1), < 0.1-0.2 microg l(-1) and < 0.2-3.2 microg l(-1) at site 2 for simazine, atrazine and diuron, respectively.

A novel approach to rapidly prevent age-related cognitive decline

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 04-12-2014

DOI: 10.1111/ACEL.12178

Speciation and quantification of organotin compounds in sediment and drinking water by isotope dilution liquid chromatography-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2015

DOI: 10.1039/C5AY00555H

Abstract: A rapid, simple isotope dilution method for detecting organotins in sediment s les.

Formulation of Biologically-Inspired Silk-Based Drug Carriers for Pulmonary Delivery Targeted for Lung Cancer

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 03-08-2015

DOI: 10.1038/SREP11878

Abstract: The benefits of using silk fibroin, a major protein in silk, are widely established in many biomedical applications including tissue regeneration, bioactive coating and in vitro tissue models. The properties of silk such as biocompatibility and controlled degradation are utilized in this study to formulate for the first time as carriers for pulmonary drug delivery. Silk fibroin particles are spray dried or spray-freeze-dried to enable the delivery to the airways via dry powder inhalers. The addition of excipients such as mannitol is optimized for both the stabilization of protein during the spray-freezing process as well as for efficient dispersion using an in vitro aerosolisation impactor. Cisplatin is incorporated into the silk-based formulations with or without cross-linking, which show different release profiles. The particles show high aerosolisation performance through the measurement of in vitro lung deposition, which is at the level of commercially available dry powder inhalers. The silk-based particles are shown to be cytocompatible with A549 human lung epithelial cell line. The cytotoxicity of cisplatin is demonstrated to be enhanced when delivered using the cross-linked silk-based particles. These novel inhalable silk-based drug carriers have the potential to be used as anti-cancer drug delivery systems targeted for the lungs.

Three-dimensional elemental bio-imaging of Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn and P in a 6-hydroxydopamine lesioned mouse brain

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2010

DOI: 10.1039/C0MT00039F

Abstract: Three dimensional maps of iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn) and phosphorous (P) in a 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) lesioned mouse brain were constructed employing a novel quantitative laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) imaging method known as elemental bio-imaging. The 3D maps were produced by ablating serial consecutive sections taken from the same animal. Each section was quantified against tissue standards resulting in a three dimensional map that represents the variation of trace element concentrations of the mouse brain in the area surrounding the substantia nigra (SN). Damage caused by the needle or the toxin did not alter the distribution of Zn, and Cu but significantly altered Fe in and around the SN and both Mn and Fe around the needle track. A 20% increase in nigral Fe concentration was observed within the lesioned hemisphere. This technique clearly shows the natural heterogeneous distributions of these elements throughout the brain and the perturbations that occur following trauma or intoxication. The method may applied to three-dimensional modelling of trace elements in a wide range of tissue s les.

Barriers and enablers to implementing telehealth consultations in psycho‐oncology

Publisher: Wiley

Date: 27-04-2022

DOI: 10.1002/PON.5939

Abstract: In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, use of telehealth to deliver care was recommended across the Australian health system. This study aims to explore the barriers and enablers to delivery of psycho‐oncology services via telehealth and attitudes to use of telehealth in psycho‐oncology. Twenty‐one psycho‐oncology clinicians participated in semi‐structured telephone interviews. Transcribed interviews were thematically analysed using the framework method. Three key themes were identified which described the overall experience of delivering psycho‐oncology services via telehealth: (1) Context Matters‐for whom is telehealth effective, when is it less effective (2) Therapy content and telehealth implementation (3) Recommendations for Sustainability. These insights into the barriers and enablers to delivering psycho‐oncology services via telehealth inform future research and clinical practice. While there is support for the continued use of telehealth in psycho‐oncology, there are significant improvements needed to ensure effective implementation and continued benefit.

Characterization of Upconversion Nanoparticles by Single-Particle ICP-MS Employing a Quadrupole Mass Filter with Increased Bandpass

Publisher: American Chemical Society (ACS)

Date: 02-11-2020

DOI: 10.1021/ACS.ANALCHEM.0C02925

Protocol for production of matrix-matched brain tissue standards for imaging by laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry

Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC)

Date: 2013

DOI: 10.1039/C3AY26248K

Is care really shared? A systematic review of collaborative care (shared care) interventions for adult cancer patients with depression

Publisher: Springer Science and Business Media LLC

Date: 14-02-2019

DOI: 10.1186/S12913-019-3946-Z

High Inorganic Phosphate Intake Promotes Tumorigenesis at Early Stages in a Mouse Model of Lung Cancer

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 18-08-2015

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PONE.0135582

Distributions of manganese in diverse human cancers provide insights into tumour radioresistance

Publisher: Oxford University Press (OUP)

Date: 2018

DOI: 10.1039/C8MT00110C

Abstract: We show that measuring manganese levels in tumours of cancer patients is predictive for their radiation treatment.

Antimony concentrations in nodal tissue can confirm sentinel node identity

Publisher: Elsevier BV

Date: 10-2004

DOI: 10.1038/MODPATHOL.3800202

Tractography dissection variability: what happens when 42 groups dissect 14 white matter bundles on the same dataset?

Publisher: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Date: 08-10-2020

DOI: 10.1101/2020.10.07.321083

Abstract: White matter bundle segmentation using diffusion MRI fiber tractography has become the method of choice to identify white matter fiber pathways in vivo in human brains. However, like other analyses of complex data, there is considerable variability in segmentation protocols and techniques. This can result in different reconstructions of the same intended white matter pathways, which directly affects tractography results, quantification, and interpretation. In this study, we aim to evaluate and quantify the variability that arises from different protocols for bundle segmentation. Through an open call to users of fiber tractography, including anatomists, clinicians, and algorithm developers, 42 independent teams were given processed sets of human whole-brain streamlines and asked to segment 14 white matter fascicles on six subjects. In total, we received 57 different bundle segmentation protocols, which enabled detailed volume-based and streamline-based analyses of agreement and disagreement among protocols for each fiber pathway. Results show that even when given the exact same sets of underlying streamlines, the variability across protocols for bundle segmentation is greater than all other sources of variability in the virtual dissection process, including variability within protocols and variability across subjects. In order to foster the use of tractography bundle dissection in routine clinical settings, and as a fundamental analytical tool, future endeavors must aim to resolve and reduce this heterogeneity. Although external validation is needed to verify the anatomical accuracy of bundle dissections, reducing heterogeneity is a step towards reproducible research and may be achieved through the use of standard nomenclature and definitions of white matter bundles and well-chosen constraints and decisions in the dissection process.

Dietary zinc and the control of Streptococcus pneumoniae infection

Publisher: Public Library of Science (PLoS)

Date: 22-08-2019

DOI: 10.1371/JOURNAL.PPAT.1007957

Consejo Nacional De Ciencia Y Tecnología

Location: Mexico

View Organisation

Centro De Investigacion En Matemáticas

Location: Mexico

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Observatoire Astronomique De Strasbourg

Location: France

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University Of Technology Sydney

Location: Australia

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Aptamer Imaging Mass Spectrometry For Biomarker Quantification

Start Date: 2019

End Date: 2021

Funder: Australian Research Council

New Technology To Fight Crime And Terrorism: Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometer Facilities (LA-ICP-MS)

Start Date: 2004

End Date: 2004

Funder: Australian Research Council

New South Wales Molecular Analysis Platform: Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometer And CHN&S Analyser

Start Date: 2018

End Date: 2018

Funder: Australian Research Council

Metal-mediated Mechanisms And Therapeutic Approaches For Treating Brain Injury Across Age

Start Date: 2018

End Date: 2020

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council

Chip Liquid Chromatography-inductively Coupled Plasma-mass Spectrometry: A New Hyphenated Microfluidic Instrument For Metallomics

Start Date: 2013

End Date: 2016

Funder: Australian Research Council

The Atlas Of Trace Metals In The Mouse Brain: A New Tool For Neuroscientists

Start Date: 2013

End Date: 2016

Funder: Australian Research Council

Three Dimensional Lymph Node Imaging: Improving Detection Of Sentinel Nodes To Reduce False Negatives

Start Date: 2011

End Date: 2011

Funder: Cancer Institute NSW

Defining The Role Of Zinc At The Host-pneumococcal Interface

Start Date: 2017

End Date: 2019

Funder: National Health and Medical Research Council

Multiplexed Bio-imaging Mass Spectrometry

Start Date: 2017

End Date: 2019

Funder: Australian Research Council

Single Cell Imaging Of Trace Elements By Laser Ablation - Inductively Coupled Plasma - Mass Spectrometry

Start Date: 2010

End Date: 2013

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP120200081

Start Date: 06-2013

End Date: 12-2017

Amount: $259,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP120200079

Start Date: 05-2013

End Date: 12-2017

Amount: $210,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP190102361

Start Date: 2019

End Date: 12-2022

Amount: $340,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE0454207

Start Date: 02-2005

End Date: 12-2006

Amount: $311,381.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Infrastructure, Equipment And Facilities - Grant ID: LE180100050

Start Date: 2018

End Date: 04-2019

Amount: $744,100.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Discovery Projects - Grant ID: DP170100036

Start Date: 2017

End Date: 07-2020

Amount: $416,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council

Linkage Projects - Grant ID: LP100200254

Start Date: 11-2011

End Date: 12-2014

Amount: $343,000.00

Funder: Australian Research Council