This article is an analysis of the work submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mento... more This article is an analysis of the work submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mentors who took part in the autism spectrum disorder participatory action research(ASD PAR) project. The key findings are grouped under four themes and highlight the value of: team work; positive attitudes; using participatory action research in real-lifesettings; and learning together as a team.
Permission to Use In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Post... more Permission to Use In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Postgraduate degree from the University of Saskatchewan, I agree that the Libraries of this University may make it freely available for inspection. I further agree that permission for copying of this thesis in any manner, in whole or in part, for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or professors who supervised my thesis work or, in their absence, by the Head of the Department or the Dean of the College in which my thesis work was done. It is understood that any copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be allowed without my written permission. It is also understood that due recognition shall be given to me and to the University of Saskatchewan in any scholarly use which may be made of any material in my thesis.
Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice, 2021
Purpose: Cultural differences and personal biases can affect the way a clinician provides care an... more Purpose: Cultural differences and personal biases can affect the way a clinician provides care and the way in which patients receive it. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) designates cultural competence as one of the professional practice expectations for physical therapy students, although no standardized blueprint exists for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. This case report will illustrate how reflection can be used to facilitate a student’s growth into becoming more prepared to practice in a culturally aware and effective way. In addition, this report seeks to provide a student’s perspective on her efficacy providing culturally competent care, given her training and education through her DPT program. Method: This case report will present the interactions between a student physical therapist (SPT) and a culturally and linguistically diverse patient throughout a physical therapy plan of care. Subsequently, the reflections by the SPT on t...
European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine, 2021
Background: The azygos venous system is an accessory venous pathway supplying an important collat... more Background: The azygos venous system is an accessory venous pathway supplying an important collateral circulation between the superior and inferior vena cava (IVC). Case summary: We report a case of complicated community-acquired pneumonia with interruption of the IVC with azygos continuation that was misdiagnosed as lung neoplasm. Discussion: The aim of this case report is to emphasize the importance of recognizing an enlarged azygos vein at the confluence with the superior vena cava and in the retrocrural space to avoid misdiagnosis as a right-sided para-tracheal mass. The angiographic features and clinical importance of this condition are discussed.
The parent-child interaction strongly influences the emotional, behavioural, and cognitive develo... more The parent-child interaction strongly influences the emotional, behavioural, and cognitive development of young children. The nature of parent-child interactions differs in families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but research still entails a lot of inconsistencies and there is no consensus as to how these interactions should be coded. The parent-child interaction between sixteen mothers and their child with ASD (M age = 68 months) and a younger sibling without ASD (M age = 48 months) in a within-family study were coded using both a global and frequency coding scheme. Global and frequency codes of the same sample were compared to explore the value of each coding method and how they could complement each other. In addition, each coding method's ability to detect group differences was evaluated. We found that mothers used an interaction style characterized by more support and structure, and clearer instructions in interaction with their children without ASD. In addition, global rating results suggested that within the ASD group, mothers may adapt their behaviour to the specific abilities of their child. Regarding the evaluation of coding method, results showed overlap between conceptually similar constructs included in both coding schemes. Although frequency coding clearly has its value, more qualitative aspects of the interaction were better captured by global rating scales and global rating was more time efficient. For this purpose, global ratings might be preferable over frequency coding.
The article addresses the various uses of expert knowledge during the controversy over shale gas ... more The article addresses the various uses of expert knowledge during the controversy over shale gas in France and in Quebec (Canada). Cross-fertilization between policy analysis and science and technology studies demonstrates that political uses of expertise better explained the policymaking process in focusing on two specific utilizations: strategic ignorance and politics of time. Using data from press analysis, interviews, reports and documentation analysis, the article shows that social movements can also use strategic ignorance to support their environmental claims and that mastering the pace of the controversy and the policy debates enabled actors to better support their policy claims. The French case illustrates those two arguments while the Quebec case provides a more tradition account of State/Industry's utilization of knowledge production to delay decision and divert opposition.
We present the case report of a 34-year-old Hispanic male who was found unresponsive in the carpo... more We present the case report of a 34-year-old Hispanic male who was found unresponsive in the carport of his residence. Surveillance video footage from a security camera showed that he collapsed as he was walking to his vehicle. The decedent had no medical history and no history of illicit drug use. Initial toxicology testing revealed no alcohol or illicit drugs. Autopsy findings indicated a need for additional toxicological analysis due to a lack of trauma and the paucity of pathophysiologically significant natural disease. Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry of postmortem blood revealed the presence of two large peaks corresponding to desmethyl carbodenafil, an unapproved sildenafil analogue and its hydroxy metabolite. Species that are probable desmethyl and hydroxydesmethyl metabolites of desmethyl carbodenafil were also found. The mass and retention time of the parent compound in the decedent's sample were matched to those of a commercial standard. Based on this preliminary match, a method was developed and validated to quantify desmethyl carbodenafil in human blood. This is the first known case of fatal intoxication by desmethyl carbodenafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor that is not approved for use in the United States. Over the past several years, retailers have issued voluntary recalls for dietary supplements marketed as sexual performance enhancers on the basis that these supplements may contain undeclared desmethyl carbodenafil.
Ethanol analysis is the most commonly carried out drug testing in a forensic toxicology laborator... more Ethanol analysis is the most commonly carried out drug testing in a forensic toxicology laboratory. Determination of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is needed in a multitude of situations, including in postmortem analysis, driving under the influence (DUI) and drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) cases, workplace drug monitoring, and probation investigations. These analyses are carried out by direct measurement of ethanol concentrations as well as of metabolic by-products, such as ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS). This review article will discuss pharmacokinetics, including absorption, distribution, and elimination of ethanol, methods for the detection of ethanol, the effect of ethanol on human performance, the role of alcohol in injuries and fatalities, and information regarding the interactions that may occur between alcohol and other drugs. Finally, an explanation will be given on how to interpret alcohol levels as well as the extrapolation and calculation of b...
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 1992
To determine in vivo functional roles for thrombin's structural domains, we have compared the... more To determine in vivo functional roles for thrombin's structural domains, we have compared the relative antithrombotic and antihemostatic effects of (i) catalytic-site antithrombin peptide, D-Phe-Pro-Arg; (ii) exosite antithrombin peptide, the C-terminal tyrosine-sulfated dodecapeptide of hirudin; and (iii) bifunctional antithrombin peptide, a 20-mer peptide combining catalytic-site antithrombin peptide and exosite antithrombin peptide with a polyglycyl linker. All three peptides inhibited thrombin-mediated platelet aggregation and fibrin formation in vitro. In vivo thrombus formation was measured in real time as 111In-labeled platelet deposition and 125I-labeled fibrin accumulation on thrombogenic segments incorporated into chronic exteriorized arteriovenous access shunts in baboons. Under low flow conditions, the continuous infusion of peptides reduced thrombus formation onto collagen-coated tubing by half at doses (ID50) and corresponding concentrations (IC50) of 800 nmol per ...
tissues, but at tenfold lower levels than in prostate. The only prostate cancer cell line that ex... more tissues, but at tenfold lower levels than in prostate. The only prostate cancer cell line that expresses 1B10 is an androgen-sensitive cell line, LNCaP, suggesting that the gene might be androgen-regulated. Cloning of the full-length cDNA has so far resulted in 4.6 kb of the transcript. The 3′ end of the coding region is significantly homologous to a prostate-specific transmembrane protein, STEAP, but the rest of the sequence does not show homology to any known gene. Cloning of the 5′ end of the cDNA and functional studies are now in progress.
Single-source molecular precursors were found to produce iron phosphide materials. In a surfactan... more Single-source molecular precursors were found to produce iron phosphide materials. In a surfactant system of trioctylamine and oleic acid, H2Fe3(CO)9PtBu reacted to form Fe4(CO)12(PtBu)2, which decomposed to give Fe2P nanorods and "bundles." Control of the morphology obtained was possible by varying the surfactant system; addition of increasing amounts of oleic acid resulted in crystal splitting, while the addition of microliter amounts of an alkane enhanced the crystal splitting to give sheaflike structures. The different morphologies seen were attributed to imperfect crystal growth mechanisms.
Abstract: This article is an analysis of the reports submitted to the Ministry of Education by te... more Abstract: This article is an analysis of the reports submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mentors who took part in the autism spectrum disorder participatory action research (ASD PAR) project. The key findings highlight the importance of: individualised ...
Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) analysis provides an expansive... more Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) analysis provides an expansive technique for identifying many known and unknown analytes. This study developed a screening method that utilizes automated solid-phase extraction to purify a wide array of analytes involving stimulants, benzodiazepines, opiates, muscle relaxants, hypnotics, antihistamines, antidepressants and newer synthetic "Spice/K2" cannabinoids and cathinone "bath salt" designer drugs. The extract was applied to LC-TOF-MS analysis, implementing a 13 min chromatography gradient with mobile phases of ammonium formate and methanol using positive mode electrospray. Several common drugs and metabolites can share the same mass and chemical formula among unrelated compounds, but they are structurally different. In this method, the LC-TOF-MS was able to resolve many isobaric compounds by accurate mass correlation within 15 ppm mass units and a narrow retention time interval of less than 10 s of separation. Drug recovery yields varied among spiked compounds, but resulted in overall robust area counts to deliver an average match score of 86 when compared to the retention time and mass of authentic standards. In summary, this method represents a rapid, enhanced screen for blood and urine specimens in postmortem, driving under the influence, and drug facilitated sexual assault forensic toxicology casework.
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be transmitted vertically from mother to infant, either la... more Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be transmitted vertically from mother to infant, either late in pregnancy or at delivery. Aims To determine the outcome of infants born to HCV infected women, to characterise epidemiology and to design an appropriate infant monitoring schedule. Methods Three hundred and fourteen infants, born to 296 HCV positive women between 1994 and 1999 were monitored for a median of 18 months (range 1-52). Results Forty per cent of infants were small for age and 46% had neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Of 173 infants of defined status, 11 were infected (vertical transmission rate [VTR] 6.4%, 95% Cl 2.8-10). Infected infants were diagnosed at a median of three months (range 0.5-10). Liver transaminases elevation was documented in 8% of uninfected infants. A negative HCV PCR test before one month of age did not exclude infection but all infected patients had detectable HCV RNA when next tested (range 2-10 months). Conclusions 94% of infants born to HCV antibody positive women are not HIV infected. Liver transaminase elevation in exposed infants is not always indicative of infection. A minimum monitoring schedule of testing (PCR and antibody) at six to eight weeks, six and 18 months allows early diagnosis while detecting late seroconversions.
Human liver is enriched with CD8 C T-and CD3 C CD56 C natural T (NT)-lymphocytes, important anti-... more Human liver is enriched with CD8 C T-and CD3 C CD56 C natural T (NT)-lymphocytes, important anti-tumour effectors, similar to murine NKTs. IL-12 promotes anti-tumour functions of NKTs. We quantified IL-12 and CD56 C /CD8 C T lymphocytes in normal and tumour bearing liver. We also examined the effect of IL-12 on the expansion/activation of peripheral blood cells in vitro. IL-12 was detected in normal (n ¼ 13, median 2032 pg/100 mg protein) and increased in tumour bearing liver (n ¼ 9, 3678 pg, p ! 0:01). Infiltrating monocytes appear to be the principal producers. Culture with IL-12 selectively expanded CD8 C T and CD3 C CD56 C NT cells and polarised their cytokine responses to Th1-type. However, there was no in vivo expansion of these cells in tumour bearing liver. Changes observed in culture required addition of IL-2. We therefore quantified IL-2 in hepatic tissue. IL-2 was detected in normal liver (median 4700 pg/100 mg protein). Surprisingly, there was no increase in tumour-infiltrated liver (4910 pg). The presence of IL-12 may create an environment in healthy liver that promotes the accumulation of CD8 C T and CD56 C NT cells. Therefore, the development of metastases in the presence of high levels of IL-12 may be due to an insufficient IL-12 response. Alternatively, lack of IL-2 rather than a defect in IL-12, may be responsible for insufficient expansion/activation of tumour specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
SUMMARY Interleukin 15 (IL-15) is critical for the development of human and murine natural killer... more SUMMARY Interleukin 15 (IL-15) is critical for the development of human and murine natural killer (NK) cells and hepatic-derived NK T cells (NKT) in mice, and for the homeostatic maintenance of NK/NKT and CD8+ memory T cells. The lymphocyte repertoire of an adult human liver includes significant populations of NK and NKT-like cells, which may arise locally from hepatic haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). We investigated hepatic IL-15 levels and the expression of IL-2/IL-15-receptor β-chain (IL-2/IL-15Rβ ; CD122) on mature hepatic lymphocytes and HSCs. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect secreted/intracellular IL-15 transcripts. IL-15 protein was localized using immunohistochemistry; levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay IL-2/IL-15Rβ expression by flow-cytometry. Normal hepatic IL-15 protein was detected at 0.43 ng/100 mg total protein (n = 11, range 0.10 ng−0.9 ng). There was a significant increase in HCV-infected tissue (1.7...
American Roentgen Ray Society Thirty-seven patients underwent MR imaging at 0.5 T within 7 days o... more American Roentgen Ray Society Thirty-seven patients underwent MR imaging at 0.5 T within 7 days of a CT-documented intracranial hemorrhage. A total of 57 hematomas were evaluated. Twelve patients underwent serial scanning and 12 patients had multiple hemorrhages into different intracranial compartments. The appearances of the hematomas on spin-echo (SE) images with a short repetition time (TR) of 500 msec and short echo time (TE) of 32 msec (SE 500/32), long TR/intermediate TE (SE 2000/60), and long TR/long TE (SE 2000/120) were carefully evaluated with specific attention to the precise time after ictus. Hematomas showed heterogeneous, complex, rapidly changing intensities. There was a significant amount of variation among patients, especially between the third and seventh days. Hematomas studied between 12 and 24 hr after hemorrhage were mildly ZIMMERMAN ET AL.
Nanoparticles composed of magnetic cores with continuous Au shell layers simultaneously possess b... more Nanoparticles composed of magnetic cores with continuous Au shell layers simultaneously possess both magnetic and plasmonic properties. Faceted and tetracubic nanocrystals consisting of wüstite with magnetite-rich corners and edges retain magnetic properties when coated with an Au shell layer, with the composite nanostructures showing ferrimagnetic behavior. The plasmonic properties are profoundly influenced by the high dielectric constant of the mixed-iron-oxide nanocrystalline core. A comprehensive theoretical analysis that examines the geometric plasmon tunability over a range of core permittivities enables us to identify the dielectric properties of the mixed-oxide magnetic core directly from the plasmonic behavior of the core-shell nanoparticle.
This research looks at the overall question of how planetary health impacts mental health and psy... more This research looks at the overall question of how planetary health impacts mental health and psychological welling. The central focus is eco-anxiety-mental distress caused by climate change and environmental degradation-and how it manifests in university students. In order to gather data for this research I collected 114 student survey responses, interviewed seven young adults (ages 20-25), and interviewed seven experts in the fields of psychology and environmental studies. They survey results show high levels of general stress and anxiety, high levels of stress and anxiety related to climate change and the state of the world, and a very high level of importance placed on nature connection in terms of mental health and psychological resilience. Most students also reported feeling that environmental studies classes psychologically prepare them poorly-moderately well for the information they receive. The young adults and experts interviewed comment on their own experiences with eco-anxiety, the important role media plays in influencing public opinion, their distrust of most mainstream media sources, their perceptions of how climate change is represented in academia (both what's working and what isn't), the psychology of climate denial, the process of empowering young adults, and the importance of both nature and community connection. They also provide recommendations for students, universities, organizations, and psychologists on how to best integrate a greater focus on mental health and wellbeing as we move forward with the fight against climate change.
This article is an analysis of the work submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mento... more This article is an analysis of the work submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mentors who took part in the autism spectrum disorder participatory action research(ASD PAR) project. The key findings are grouped under four themes and highlight the value of: team work; positive attitudes; using participatory action research in real-lifesettings; and learning together as a team.
Permission to Use In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Post... more Permission to Use In presenting this thesis in partial fulfillment of the requirements for a Postgraduate degree from the University of Saskatchewan, I agree that the Libraries of this University may make it freely available for inspection. I further agree that permission for copying of this thesis in any manner, in whole or in part, for scholarly purposes may be granted by the professor or professors who supervised my thesis work or, in their absence, by the Head of the Department or the Dean of the College in which my thesis work was done. It is understood that any copying or publication or use of this thesis or parts thereof for financial gain shall not be allowed without my written permission. It is also understood that due recognition shall be given to me and to the University of Saskatchewan in any scholarly use which may be made of any material in my thesis.
Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice, 2021
Purpose: Cultural differences and personal biases can affect the way a clinician provides care an... more Purpose: Cultural differences and personal biases can affect the way a clinician provides care and the way in which patients receive it. The Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) designates cultural competence as one of the professional practice expectations for physical therapy students, although no standardized blueprint exists for Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) programs. This case report will illustrate how reflection can be used to facilitate a student’s growth into becoming more prepared to practice in a culturally aware and effective way. In addition, this report seeks to provide a student’s perspective on her efficacy providing culturally competent care, given her training and education through her DPT program. Method: This case report will present the interactions between a student physical therapist (SPT) and a culturally and linguistically diverse patient throughout a physical therapy plan of care. Subsequently, the reflections by the SPT on t...
European Journal of Case Reports in Internal Medicine, 2021
Background: The azygos venous system is an accessory venous pathway supplying an important collat... more Background: The azygos venous system is an accessory venous pathway supplying an important collateral circulation between the superior and inferior vena cava (IVC). Case summary: We report a case of complicated community-acquired pneumonia with interruption of the IVC with azygos continuation that was misdiagnosed as lung neoplasm. Discussion: The aim of this case report is to emphasize the importance of recognizing an enlarged azygos vein at the confluence with the superior vena cava and in the retrocrural space to avoid misdiagnosis as a right-sided para-tracheal mass. The angiographic features and clinical importance of this condition are discussed.
The parent-child interaction strongly influences the emotional, behavioural, and cognitive develo... more The parent-child interaction strongly influences the emotional, behavioural, and cognitive development of young children. The nature of parent-child interactions differs in families with children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), but research still entails a lot of inconsistencies and there is no consensus as to how these interactions should be coded. The parent-child interaction between sixteen mothers and their child with ASD (M age = 68 months) and a younger sibling without ASD (M age = 48 months) in a within-family study were coded using both a global and frequency coding scheme. Global and frequency codes of the same sample were compared to explore the value of each coding method and how they could complement each other. In addition, each coding method's ability to detect group differences was evaluated. We found that mothers used an interaction style characterized by more support and structure, and clearer instructions in interaction with their children without ASD. In addition, global rating results suggested that within the ASD group, mothers may adapt their behaviour to the specific abilities of their child. Regarding the evaluation of coding method, results showed overlap between conceptually similar constructs included in both coding schemes. Although frequency coding clearly has its value, more qualitative aspects of the interaction were better captured by global rating scales and global rating was more time efficient. For this purpose, global ratings might be preferable over frequency coding.
The article addresses the various uses of expert knowledge during the controversy over shale gas ... more The article addresses the various uses of expert knowledge during the controversy over shale gas in France and in Quebec (Canada). Cross-fertilization between policy analysis and science and technology studies demonstrates that political uses of expertise better explained the policymaking process in focusing on two specific utilizations: strategic ignorance and politics of time. Using data from press analysis, interviews, reports and documentation analysis, the article shows that social movements can also use strategic ignorance to support their environmental claims and that mastering the pace of the controversy and the policy debates enabled actors to better support their policy claims. The French case illustrates those two arguments while the Quebec case provides a more tradition account of State/Industry's utilization of knowledge production to delay decision and divert opposition.
We present the case report of a 34-year-old Hispanic male who was found unresponsive in the carpo... more We present the case report of a 34-year-old Hispanic male who was found unresponsive in the carport of his residence. Surveillance video footage from a security camera showed that he collapsed as he was walking to his vehicle. The decedent had no medical history and no history of illicit drug use. Initial toxicology testing revealed no alcohol or illicit drugs. Autopsy findings indicated a need for additional toxicological analysis due to a lack of trauma and the paucity of pathophysiologically significant natural disease. Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry of postmortem blood revealed the presence of two large peaks corresponding to desmethyl carbodenafil, an unapproved sildenafil analogue and its hydroxy metabolite. Species that are probable desmethyl and hydroxydesmethyl metabolites of desmethyl carbodenafil were also found. The mass and retention time of the parent compound in the decedent's sample were matched to those of a commercial standard. Based on this preliminary match, a method was developed and validated to quantify desmethyl carbodenafil in human blood. This is the first known case of fatal intoxication by desmethyl carbodenafil, a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor that is not approved for use in the United States. Over the past several years, retailers have issued voluntary recalls for dietary supplements marketed as sexual performance enhancers on the basis that these supplements may contain undeclared desmethyl carbodenafil.
Ethanol analysis is the most commonly carried out drug testing in a forensic toxicology laborator... more Ethanol analysis is the most commonly carried out drug testing in a forensic toxicology laboratory. Determination of blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is needed in a multitude of situations, including in postmortem analysis, driving under the influence (DUI) and drug-facilitated sexual assault (DFSA) cases, workplace drug monitoring, and probation investigations. These analyses are carried out by direct measurement of ethanol concentrations as well as of metabolic by-products, such as ethyl glucuronide (EtG) and ethyl sulfate (EtS). This review article will discuss pharmacokinetics, including absorption, distribution, and elimination of ethanol, methods for the detection of ethanol, the effect of ethanol on human performance, the role of alcohol in injuries and fatalities, and information regarding the interactions that may occur between alcohol and other drugs. Finally, an explanation will be given on how to interpret alcohol levels as well as the extrapolation and calculation of b...
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 1992
To determine in vivo functional roles for thrombin's structural domains, we have compared the... more To determine in vivo functional roles for thrombin's structural domains, we have compared the relative antithrombotic and antihemostatic effects of (i) catalytic-site antithrombin peptide, D-Phe-Pro-Arg; (ii) exosite antithrombin peptide, the C-terminal tyrosine-sulfated dodecapeptide of hirudin; and (iii) bifunctional antithrombin peptide, a 20-mer peptide combining catalytic-site antithrombin peptide and exosite antithrombin peptide with a polyglycyl linker. All three peptides inhibited thrombin-mediated platelet aggregation and fibrin formation in vitro. In vivo thrombus formation was measured in real time as 111In-labeled platelet deposition and 125I-labeled fibrin accumulation on thrombogenic segments incorporated into chronic exteriorized arteriovenous access shunts in baboons. Under low flow conditions, the continuous infusion of peptides reduced thrombus formation onto collagen-coated tubing by half at doses (ID50) and corresponding concentrations (IC50) of 800 nmol per ...
tissues, but at tenfold lower levels than in prostate. The only prostate cancer cell line that ex... more tissues, but at tenfold lower levels than in prostate. The only prostate cancer cell line that expresses 1B10 is an androgen-sensitive cell line, LNCaP, suggesting that the gene might be androgen-regulated. Cloning of the full-length cDNA has so far resulted in 4.6 kb of the transcript. The 3′ end of the coding region is significantly homologous to a prostate-specific transmembrane protein, STEAP, but the rest of the sequence does not show homology to any known gene. Cloning of the 5′ end of the cDNA and functional studies are now in progress.
Single-source molecular precursors were found to produce iron phosphide materials. In a surfactan... more Single-source molecular precursors were found to produce iron phosphide materials. In a surfactant system of trioctylamine and oleic acid, H2Fe3(CO)9PtBu reacted to form Fe4(CO)12(PtBu)2, which decomposed to give Fe2P nanorods and "bundles." Control of the morphology obtained was possible by varying the surfactant system; addition of increasing amounts of oleic acid resulted in crystal splitting, while the addition of microliter amounts of an alkane enhanced the crystal splitting to give sheaflike structures. The different morphologies seen were attributed to imperfect crystal growth mechanisms.
Abstract: This article is an analysis of the reports submitted to the Ministry of Education by te... more Abstract: This article is an analysis of the reports submitted to the Ministry of Education by teams and mentors who took part in the autism spectrum disorder participatory action research (ASD PAR) project. The key findings highlight the importance of: individualised ...
Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) analysis provides an expansive... more Liquid chromatography time-of-flight mass spectrometry (LC-TOF-MS) analysis provides an expansive technique for identifying many known and unknown analytes. This study developed a screening method that utilizes automated solid-phase extraction to purify a wide array of analytes involving stimulants, benzodiazepines, opiates, muscle relaxants, hypnotics, antihistamines, antidepressants and newer synthetic "Spice/K2" cannabinoids and cathinone "bath salt" designer drugs. The extract was applied to LC-TOF-MS analysis, implementing a 13 min chromatography gradient with mobile phases of ammonium formate and methanol using positive mode electrospray. Several common drugs and metabolites can share the same mass and chemical formula among unrelated compounds, but they are structurally different. In this method, the LC-TOF-MS was able to resolve many isobaric compounds by accurate mass correlation within 15 ppm mass units and a narrow retention time interval of less than 10 s of separation. Drug recovery yields varied among spiked compounds, but resulted in overall robust area counts to deliver an average match score of 86 when compared to the retention time and mass of authentic standards. In summary, this method represents a rapid, enhanced screen for blood and urine specimens in postmortem, driving under the influence, and drug facilitated sexual assault forensic toxicology casework.
Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be transmitted vertically from mother to infant, either la... more Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be transmitted vertically from mother to infant, either late in pregnancy or at delivery. Aims To determine the outcome of infants born to HCV infected women, to characterise epidemiology and to design an appropriate infant monitoring schedule. Methods Three hundred and fourteen infants, born to 296 HCV positive women between 1994 and 1999 were monitored for a median of 18 months (range 1-52). Results Forty per cent of infants were small for age and 46% had neonatal abstinence syndrome (NAS). Of 173 infants of defined status, 11 were infected (vertical transmission rate [VTR] 6.4%, 95% Cl 2.8-10). Infected infants were diagnosed at a median of three months (range 0.5-10). Liver transaminases elevation was documented in 8% of uninfected infants. A negative HCV PCR test before one month of age did not exclude infection but all infected patients had detectable HCV RNA when next tested (range 2-10 months). Conclusions 94% of infants born to HCV antibody positive women are not HIV infected. Liver transaminase elevation in exposed infants is not always indicative of infection. A minimum monitoring schedule of testing (PCR and antibody) at six to eight weeks, six and 18 months allows early diagnosis while detecting late seroconversions.
Human liver is enriched with CD8 C T-and CD3 C CD56 C natural T (NT)-lymphocytes, important anti-... more Human liver is enriched with CD8 C T-and CD3 C CD56 C natural T (NT)-lymphocytes, important anti-tumour effectors, similar to murine NKTs. IL-12 promotes anti-tumour functions of NKTs. We quantified IL-12 and CD56 C /CD8 C T lymphocytes in normal and tumour bearing liver. We also examined the effect of IL-12 on the expansion/activation of peripheral blood cells in vitro. IL-12 was detected in normal (n ¼ 13, median 2032 pg/100 mg protein) and increased in tumour bearing liver (n ¼ 9, 3678 pg, p ! 0:01). Infiltrating monocytes appear to be the principal producers. Culture with IL-12 selectively expanded CD8 C T and CD3 C CD56 C NT cells and polarised their cytokine responses to Th1-type. However, there was no in vivo expansion of these cells in tumour bearing liver. Changes observed in culture required addition of IL-2. We therefore quantified IL-2 in hepatic tissue. IL-2 was detected in normal liver (median 4700 pg/100 mg protein). Surprisingly, there was no increase in tumour-infiltrated liver (4910 pg). The presence of IL-12 may create an environment in healthy liver that promotes the accumulation of CD8 C T and CD56 C NT cells. Therefore, the development of metastases in the presence of high levels of IL-12 may be due to an insufficient IL-12 response. Alternatively, lack of IL-2 rather than a defect in IL-12, may be responsible for insufficient expansion/activation of tumour specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes.
SUMMARY Interleukin 15 (IL-15) is critical for the development of human and murine natural killer... more SUMMARY Interleukin 15 (IL-15) is critical for the development of human and murine natural killer (NK) cells and hepatic-derived NK T cells (NKT) in mice, and for the homeostatic maintenance of NK/NKT and CD8+ memory T cells. The lymphocyte repertoire of an adult human liver includes significant populations of NK and NKT-like cells, which may arise locally from hepatic haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). We investigated hepatic IL-15 levels and the expression of IL-2/IL-15-receptor β-chain (IL-2/IL-15Rβ ; CD122) on mature hepatic lymphocytes and HSCs. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was used to detect secreted/intracellular IL-15 transcripts. IL-15 protein was localized using immunohistochemistry; levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay IL-2/IL-15Rβ expression by flow-cytometry. Normal hepatic IL-15 protein was detected at 0.43 ng/100 mg total protein (n = 11, range 0.10 ng−0.9 ng). There was a significant increase in HCV-infected tissue (1.7...
American Roentgen Ray Society Thirty-seven patients underwent MR imaging at 0.5 T within 7 days o... more American Roentgen Ray Society Thirty-seven patients underwent MR imaging at 0.5 T within 7 days of a CT-documented intracranial hemorrhage. A total of 57 hematomas were evaluated. Twelve patients underwent serial scanning and 12 patients had multiple hemorrhages into different intracranial compartments. The appearances of the hematomas on spin-echo (SE) images with a short repetition time (TR) of 500 msec and short echo time (TE) of 32 msec (SE 500/32), long TR/intermediate TE (SE 2000/60), and long TR/long TE (SE 2000/120) were carefully evaluated with specific attention to the precise time after ictus. Hematomas showed heterogeneous, complex, rapidly changing intensities. There was a significant amount of variation among patients, especially between the third and seventh days. Hematomas studied between 12 and 24 hr after hemorrhage were mildly ZIMMERMAN ET AL.
Nanoparticles composed of magnetic cores with continuous Au shell layers simultaneously possess b... more Nanoparticles composed of magnetic cores with continuous Au shell layers simultaneously possess both magnetic and plasmonic properties. Faceted and tetracubic nanocrystals consisting of wüstite with magnetite-rich corners and edges retain magnetic properties when coated with an Au shell layer, with the composite nanostructures showing ferrimagnetic behavior. The plasmonic properties are profoundly influenced by the high dielectric constant of the mixed-iron-oxide nanocrystalline core. A comprehensive theoretical analysis that examines the geometric plasmon tunability over a range of core permittivities enables us to identify the dielectric properties of the mixed-oxide magnetic core directly from the plasmonic behavior of the core-shell nanoparticle.
This research looks at the overall question of how planetary health impacts mental health and psy... more This research looks at the overall question of how planetary health impacts mental health and psychological welling. The central focus is eco-anxiety-mental distress caused by climate change and environmental degradation-and how it manifests in university students. In order to gather data for this research I collected 114 student survey responses, interviewed seven young adults (ages 20-25), and interviewed seven experts in the fields of psychology and environmental studies. They survey results show high levels of general stress and anxiety, high levels of stress and anxiety related to climate change and the state of the world, and a very high level of importance placed on nature connection in terms of mental health and psychological resilience. Most students also reported feeling that environmental studies classes psychologically prepare them poorly-moderately well for the information they receive. The young adults and experts interviewed comment on their own experiences with eco-anxiety, the important role media plays in influencing public opinion, their distrust of most mainstream media sources, their perceptions of how climate change is represented in academia (both what's working and what isn't), the psychology of climate denial, the process of empowering young adults, and the importance of both nature and community connection. They also provide recommendations for students, universities, organizations, and psychologists on how to best integrate a greater focus on mental health and wellbeing as we move forward with the fight against climate change.
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Papers by Anna Kelly