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Patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and significant fibrosis (fibrosis stage≥2), known as Fibro-MASH, are at increased risk of liver-related outcomes and lower rates of spontaneous disease regression. The aim was to investigate three-dimensional MR elastography (3D-MRE) combining proton-density fat fraction (PDFF) as a means of identifying Fibro-MASH. Forty-eight New Zealand rabbits were fed a high-fat/cholesterol or standard diet to obtain different disease activity and fibrosis stages. Shear stiffness (SS) and Damping Ratio (DR) were derived from 3D-MRE, whereas PDFF was from a volumetric 3D imaging sequence. Steatosis grade, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease activity score (MAS), and fibrosis stage were diagnosed histologically. Serum markers of fibrosis and inflammation were also measured. Correlation and comparison analysis, Receiver operating characteristic curves (ROC), Delong test, logistic regression analysis, and Net reclassification improvement (NRI) were performed. PDFF correlated with steatosis grade (rho = 0.853). SS increased with developed liver fibrosis (rho = 0.837). DR correlated with MAS grade (rho = 0.678). The areas under the ROC (AUROCs) of SS for fibrosis grading were 0.961 and 0.953 for ≥F2, and ≥ F3, respectively. All the biochemical parameters were considered but excluded from the logistic regression analysis to identify Fibro-MASH. FF, SS, and DR were finally included in the further analysis. The three-parameter model combining PDFF, SS, and DR showed significant improvement in NRI over the model combining SS and PDFF (AUROC 0.973 vs. 0.906, P = 0.081; NRI 0.28, P < 0.05). 3D-MRE combining PDFF may characterize the state of fat content, disease activity and fibrosis, thus precisely identify Fibro-MASH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With critical lessons drawn from past major earthquakes, the engineering community is appealing for a fundamental shift in the existing design philosophy for structures in seismic zones. One strategy is to endow structures with self-centering (SC) capability. While the concept of SC structures is not new, many novel technologies have been recently emerging that are more efficient, compact, and cost-effective; on the other hand, growing controversy and dispute have also been appearing with deepening investigations. This paper presents a critical review of the evolution of SC technologies and systems for both researchers and practitioners, with an emphasis on post-tension (PT), high-performance spring, and shape memory alloy (SMA) strategies. These SC technologies, together with various energy dissipation options, form the basis of a large part of the newly proposed SC philosophies. This review also includes typical SC structural members such as beam-to-column connections, braces, dampers, shear walls, bridge piers, and isolation bearings, followed by a discussion on the dynamic behavior from a system-level point of view. Available design approaches for SC structures are also touched upon, and practical applications that have emerged over the past decades in several countries including Canada, China, New Zealand, and the US are presented. This paper concludes with an executive summary that covers technological advances, knowledge gaps, and future research directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fatigue performance of cementitious composites that affects the service life of structures is particularly sensitive to the initial defects in cementitious matrix and interfacial transition zone. Nano‐ZrO2 (NZ), characterized by high strength and toughness as well as good dispersibility, can improve the compactness of cementitious composites. This paper investigated the modifying effect and mechanisms of NZ on the compressive fatigue performance of cementitious composites, including fatigue life, strength, and deformation behaviors. The experimental results show that adding NZ extends the fatigue life of cementitious composites by an order of magnitude and increases the fatigue failure strain by 11.9%. The microstructural analysis verifies that NZ can deflect the fatigue micro‐cracks, fill the micro‐pores and reduce the growth space of CH crystal size. The modified microstructures potentially lead to fatigue of cementitious composites starting from generating more nano‐cracks in both cementitious matrix and interfacial transition zone, thereby improving the fatigue performance of the composites. Highlights: Nano‐ZrO2 (NZ) is added into concrete to improve compressive fatigue propertyThe fatigue life and failure strain of concrete are enhanced by the addition of NZThe morphology of fatigue fracture surface of concrete with/without NZ is observedThe fatigue equation of cementitious composites with/without NZ is developed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the stock return risk associated with the various types of dividend decisions announced by New Zealand firms during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. The sample includes a group of firms that initially announced cash dividends but a number of days later made announcements cancelling their payments. Using multinomial logistic regression analysis, we found that higher pre-pandemic payout policy significantly increased the likelihood of a cancellation, an omission or an increase decision. Higher growth and higher profitability reduced the probability of an omission and a reduction decision, respectively. Moreover, higher stock return volatility increased the likelihood of an omission, a reduction or an increase decision. Further event study analysis revealed that investors reacted more feverishly to the announcements of cancellation decisions than any other types of dividend decisions. Moreover, we report strong evidence of negative abnormal returns around the cancellation announcements followed by positive post-announcement price reversals, a pattern that is not observed for the omission announcements. This paper contributes to the literature by studying a cancellation sample and reveals, for the first time, significant shareholder risk associated with cancellation decisions, which was not observed for omission decisions. We alert managers to carefully weigh the costs and benefits of breaking a promise of dividend payout. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Public emergencies like global pandemics subject human rights to extraordinary vulnerability. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) permits States to restrict rights by enacting permissible limitations on them at any time and by derogating from their protection in emergencies. This article argues that States should rely on the ICCPR's permissible limitations provisions rather than lodge formal derogations in times of crisis, unlike what many States have done during the COVID-19 pandemic. It draws upon New Zealand's highly successful public health response to support this proposition. The article argues that the accountability machinery for compliance with States' rights obligations is stronger when permissible limitations are enacted. Where States do rely on the right to derogate, the article suggests some improvements to existing international accountability mechanisms. These include enhancing the analysis to be contained in notices of derogation and advance capacity-building to enable States to better decide if derogation is necessary in the first place. Ultimately, the article argues that keeping States within the international human rights system is ideal. This can be achieved through reliance on the flexibility built into the ICCPR via its permissible limitations provisions rather than its right of derogation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Hunga Tonga‐Hunga Ha'apai (hereafter HTHH) submarine volcano erupted at 04:14:45 UT on 15 January 2022, causing ionospheric disturbances. This paper uses carrier phase observations from GNSS tracking stations in New Zealand and Australia to calculate the vertical total electron content. At 06:10, the ground‐based GNSS tracking station in New Zealand observes a maximum amplitude of 2.26 TECU anomaly caused by a mesoscale traveling ionospheric disturbance (MSTID) with a wavelength of 200–250 km, a period of 6–13 min, and a maximum propagation velocity of 330 m/s. The anomaly developed with time along the north‐south island direction toward the south island and lasted for about three and a half hours, with the ionosphere returning to pre‐eruption levels after 09:50, indicating a correlation between ionospheric activity and volcanic eruption. An ionospheric anomaly caused by an MSTID was also observed off the east coast of Australia around 08:11, with a maximum amplitude of 3.17 TECU and a maximum propagation velocity of 356 m/s. The ionospheric anomaly in Australia spreads out in a plane. In the process of propagation, it continuously impacts the area it passes through, and the entire anomaly process lasts for more than 7 hr. Still, the anomalous propagation velocities are more significant than in New Zealand, indicating that the Lamb waves excited by the eruption of the HTHH submarine volcano are directional in propagation speed; westward travels faster than southward. This finding will provide more references for scholars to study the mechanism and characteristics of anomaly propagation. Plain Language Summary: This paper reports on the Hunga Tonga‐Hunga Ha'apai submarine volcanic eruption event at Tonga on 15 January 2022, which caused air pressure waves in the form of Lamb waves to propagate to ionospheric heights and caused traveling ionospheric disturbances. Analysis of the filtered total electron content in the ionosphere using dense GNSS tracking stations in Australia and New Zealand revealed large‐scale, intense ionospheric disturbances. The propagation of the anomaly is also directional, with the New Zealand ionospheric anomaly initially propagating from north to south in a ripple pattern with a maximum mesoscale traveling ionospheric disturbance (MSTID) propagation velocity of ∼330 m/s. The impact of Lamb waves on the ionosphere in Australia is more pronounced, with the disturbance unfolding in a faceted pattern from east to west for up to 7 hr, during which the maximum MSTID propagation velocity is ∼356 m/s. In addition, the anomaly is affected by small‐amplitude gravity waves and excites multiple ionospheric disturbance phenomena during its propagation in both locations. This result confirms the natural phenomenon of ionospheric disturbances induced by extreme natural hazards and shows that severe explosive events can have a lasting and far‐reaching impact on the ionosphere. Key Points: Evidence of widespread traveling ionospheric disturbances caused by volcanic eruptionsThe propagation of the anomaly is directional, propagating westward at a greater rate than southwardSmall‐scale gravity waves have caused multiple transient ionospheric disturbances in both New Zealand and Australia [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To observe the effect and mechanism of alpha-adrenergic receptor inhibitor phentolamine (PTL) in a rabbit model of acute pulmonary embolism (APE) combined with shock. Methods: Twenty-four New Zealand rabbits were randomly divided into sham operation group (S group, n = 8), model group (M group, n = 8) and PTL group (n = 8), the model of APE combined with shock was established. Mean pulmonary arterial pressure (MPAP), peripheral mean arterial pressure (MAP) and pulmonary circulation time were evaluated. The expression levels of α1 receptor, α2 receptor and their downstream molecules in pulmonary embolism (PE) and non-pulmonary embolism (non-PE) regions lung tissues were detected and compared, respectively. Results: In M group, α receptor-related signaling pathways were significantly activated in both PE and non-PE areas as expressed by up-regulated α1, α2 receptor and phospholipase C (PLC); the expression level of phosphorylated protein kinase A (p-PKA) was significantly down-regulated; myosin light chain kinase (MLCK) and α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) levels were up-regulated. PTL treatment significantly improved pulmonary as well as systemic circulation failure: decreased MPAP, restored blood flow in non-PE area, shortened pulmonary circulation time, increased MAP, and restored the circulation failure. PTL induced significantly down-regulated expression of α1 receptor and its downstream molecule PLC in both PE and non-PE area, the expression level of α2 receptor was also down-regulated, the expression level of p-PKA was significantly up-regulated. PTL treatment can inhibit both α1 and α2 receptor-related signaling pathways in whole lung tissues, and inhibit Ca2+ signaling pathways. The expression level of MLCK and α-SMA were significantly down-regulated. Compared with PE area, the changes of expression levels of α receptor and its downstream molecules were more significant in the non-PE region. Conclusion: In this model of APE combined with shock, the sympathetic nerve activity was enhanced in the whole lung, α1 and α2 receptor and their downstream signaling activation might mediate blood flow failure in the whole lung. PTL treatment can effectively restore pulmonary blood flow in non-PE area and improve pulmonary as well as systemic circulation failure possibly through down-regulating α1 and α2 receptor and their downstream signaling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this paper is to apply Cultural Lens Approach theory to data collected from third year nursing students related to an assignment undertaken during their month-long practicum placement in an aged residential care facility. We explore the extent to which a national vision of bi-culturalism and inclusivity is evident in students' quality improvement project topic selection and practice. Background: Aotearoa New Zealand is a nation of dual heritage, informed by the cultures of Māori as the indigenous tangata whenua (people of the land), and Pākehā, (European) settlers. All public sectors, including all higher education providers and the curricula they deliver, are required to incorporate and promote a contemporary, bi-cultural world-view. Methods: Stage one of the research reported in this paper involved a) document analysis of 93 students' quality improvement project reports; b) focus groups with 18 students; and c) an online questionnaire for 16 key stakeholders including aged care managers, clinical nurse leaders and student nurse educators. Stage two reviewed the above data through a five-step Cultural Lens Approach process to identify cultural biases and assumptions. Results: Qualitative analysis revealed students' increased professional confidence, improving communication and critical thinking skills. Responses as to development of cultural competence and cultural safety were mixed: a key barrier identified was that staff in the placement setting received minimal professional development to ensure appropriate tikanga (customary protocols and practice) for Māori residents was in place. Conclusion: Viewed through a cultural lens, a westernized concept of aged healthcare provision continues to prevail in most settings. Nursing students noted gaps between cultural learning and practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sarcoma is derived from mesenchymal neoplasms and has numerous subtypes, accounting for 1% of all adult malignancies and 15% of childhood malignancies. The prognosis of metastatic or recurrent sarcoma remains poor. The current study presents two cases of sarcoma enrolled in a phase I dose escalation trial for solid tumor, who had previously failed all standard therapies. These patients were treated with VG161, an immune-stimulating herpes simplex virus type 1 oncolytic virus with payloads of IL-12, IL-15 and IL-15 receptor α unit, and a programmed cell death 1 (PD-1)/PD-1 ligand 1 blocking peptide. Both cases demonstrated stable disease as the best response, accompanied by a noteworthy prolongation of progression-free survival (11.8 months for chondrosarcoma and 11.9 months for soft tissue sarcoma, respectively) at a dose of 2.5×108 PFU/cycle. In addition, the treatment led to the activation of anti-cancer immunity, as evident from cytokine, lymphocyte subset and related pathway analyses of peripheral blood and/or tumor biopsy samples. These promising results suggest that VG161 monotherapy holds promise as an effective treatment for sarcoma and warrants further investigation through clinical trials. The two reported patients were part of a phase I clinical trial conducted and registered on the Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry in Australia (registration no. ACTRN12620000244909; registration date, 26 February, 2020). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to investigate the buckling behavior of cold-formed steel built-up closed section members subjected to combined minor axis bending and compression. The channels were fabricated from zinc-coated steel sheets of grades G500 and G550 to compose built-up closed sections. A total of 30 beam-column specimens with nominal member lengths of 300, 900, and 1,500 mm as well as nominal plate thicknesses of 0.75 and 1.2 mm were eccentrically loaded under pin-ended boundary condition. The initial loading eccentricity was varied for the specimens in each test series to obtain the data evenly distributed in the axial load-moment interaction diagram. Experimental results including failure modes, loading capacities, and full-history responses of the test specimens were obtained. In addition, the experimental loading capacities were compared with nominal strengths to evaluate the suitability of the provisions as stipulated in the North American specification, Australian/New Zealand standard, European code, and American specification for the built-up section beam-columns. It is shown that the aforementioned design codes are overall unreliable and unconservative for strength predictions of the cold-formed steel built-up closed section members under combined minor axis bending and compression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To establish an animal model of adjacent intervertebral disc degeneration by performing spinal fixation and fusion after percutaneous needle puncture and removal of the intervertebral disc or percutaneous needling of the vertebral body without removal of the intervertebral disc. Methods: We established a model of adjacent intervertebral disc degeneration after spinal fixation and fusion of rabbits maintained in upright feeding cages. Twenty-five healthy New Zealand rabbits were used. In the experimental group, the L3-4 intervertebral disc was percutaneously punctured with an 18-G needle under fluoroscopic guidance. Once degeneration occurred, the L3-4 disc was excised, and interbody fusion was performed. The changes in the adjacent intervertebral discs were observed periodically via X-ray and MRI. In the control group, the L3 vertebral body was percutaneously needled with an 18-G needle under fluoroscopic guidance. The changes in the adjacent intervertebral discs were observed on X-ray and MRI at 4, 8, and 12 weeks after puncture in both groups. At 12 weeks postoperatively, the animals were euthanized, and the histopathologic changes of the adjacent intervertebral discs were assessed using hematoxylin-eosin and TdT-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining. The mRNA and protein expressions of aggrecanase-1 were measured by real-time quantitative PCR and Western blot analysis. The product of aggrecan degradation, Aggrecan ARGxx, was measured by Western blot analysis. Results: The degeneration of the intervertebral discs in the adjacent segments in the experimental group increased over time. The mRNA and protein expressions of aggrecanase-1 and the expression of Aggrecan ARGxx in the experimental group were significantly increased after puncture, fixation, and fusion (P<0.05). The adjacent intervertebral disc sections had a significantly lower cell density and significantly higher TUNEL-positive cell rate in the experimental group than the control group (P<0.05). Conclusion: The results suggest that the occurrence of intervertebral disc degeneration in adjacent segments may begin with the degeneration of the punctured intervertebral disc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that platelet-rich plasma has a strong role in promoting chondrocyte repair and proliferation. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in chondrocyte repair and synovial inflammation inhibition in osteoarthritis. METHODS: The blood samples were extracted from the central artery of the ear in 40 New Zealand white rabbits and platelet-rich plasma was prepared by the method of Hokugo. The platelet, platelet-derived growth factor, transfonning growth factor-~, vascular endothelial growth factor in the peripheral blood and platelet-rich plasma were detected simultaneously. Animal models were made by resection of anterior cruciate ligament and divided into experimental group and control group. In the experimental group, 0.3 ml of platelet-rich plasma was injected once a week for 1 O weeks; in the control group, 0.3 ml of sterile saline was injected once a week for 10 weeks. Gross observation and histological observation of knee joints were perfonned: articular cartilage type 11 collagen and matrix metalloproteinase 13 levels were measured: and Mankin score of the cartilage tissue was perfonned at 2, 4, 6, 8, and 1 O weeks after injection. The study protocol was approved by the Animal Experiment Ethics Committee of Chongqing Medical University. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: (1) The concentrations of platelet, platelet-derived growth factor, transforming growth factor-β. vascular endothelial growth factor in platelet-rich plasma were 5.5, 4.8, 7.7, and 6.2 times those of the peripheral blood, respectively. And there were significant differences between the platelet-rich plasma and peripheral blood (P < 0.05). (2) From the 6th week, the Mankin score of the experimental group was significantly lower than that of the control group (P < 0.05). (3) The expression of type II collagen protein in the experimental group was significantly higher than that in the control group at the 4th, 6th, 8th and 10th weeks after injection (P < 0.05). The expression of matrix metalloproteinase-13 was significantly lower than that in the control group at the 2nd, 4th, 6th, 8th and 10th week (P < 0.05). All these findings indicate that intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma can inhibit the development of osteoarthritis by alleviating synovial inflammation and delaying or blocking the damage of chondrocytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Relative search volume for losing weight progressively increased from 2004 to 2018. • The UK had the largest average increment speed for a search query of losing weight. • There is a seasonality of losing weight with a peak in the spring months. • A spike of relative search volume was observed in all countries in 2017. This study sought to examine the variation trends and seasonality of losing weight by using the data from Google Trends tool. According to the search term of [lose weight + weight loss], Google Trends data were obtained. Search activity was conducted within the USA, the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand from January 01, 2004, to December 31, 2018, utilizing the health category. Dynamic series analysis and the plot of seasonal decomposition of time series show that relative search volume of [lose weight + weight loss] increased from 2004 to 2018 at both national and hemispherical levels. Statistically significant seasonal variations in relative search volume for the term [lose weight + weight loss] were observed using cosinor analyses in the USA (p < 0.001), the UK (p < 0.001), Canada (p < 0.001), Ireland (p < 0.001), Australia (p < 0.001), and New Zealand (p < 0.001), peaking in the spring months and reaching the lowest level in the autumn months. The highest level in spring and the lowest level in autumn were reversed by 6 months in both hemisphere countries, consistent with a seasonal pattern. Our results indicate that Internet search queries for losing weight increased within the timeframe of 2004 to 2018, likely reflecting the rising global public interest. In addition, the present research provided preliminary evidence that there is a seasonality of losing weight with a peak in the spring months. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential use of computed tomography (CT) in assessing inhalation injuries at various levels by studying the changes in lung imaging of rabbits with severe inhalation injury.Methods: The sham, serious, critical, and extremely critical lung inhalation injury models were established by the New Zealand white rabbits' inhalation of steam for 0s, 0.25s, 0.50s, and 1.00s, respectively. Lung CT scans were performed at 1, 4, and 12h after the administration of steam and a radiologist's scores (RADS) were collected for each CT scan. Lung tissues were later collected to measure the lung wet/dry weight (W/D) ratio and to determine pathological scores. The correlation of the RADS with the lung-tissue pathological scores and W/D changes was investigated.Results: The RADS and lung-tissue pathological scores are dependent on the time after injury and the level of injury. W/D ratios are dependent on the level of injury. The W/D ratio showed an increasing trend from 1h to 4h for the 0.25s, 0.50s, and 1s inhalation injury groups, while the W/D ratio decreased from 4h to 12h for the 0.25s and 0.50s inhalation injury groups. Further analysis indicates that, at the same time point, the lung RADS positively correlates with both the lung pathological scores and W/D ratios.Conclusion: A lung CT scan is able to reflect the early-stage lung injuries of rabbits with different levels of severe inhalation injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil properties can vary spatially due to differences in topography, parent material, and land management practices. For site-specific management within the field, information on spatial variation of soil properties is essential. This case study was conducted to quantify the spatial variability of available plant nutrients and organic matter under arable cropping in New Zealand. Within a 10.4-ha paddock that had a long-term history of arable cropping, 91 samples (0–7.5 cm) were collected in a grid pattern for determination of mineral nitrogen (Min N), anaerobically mineralizable N (AMN), Olsen P, total carbon (TC), and total N (TN). The data were evaluated using geostatistical and classical statistical methods. Although the paddock had a flat topography and had been managed uniformly for many years, nutrient concentrations exhibited substantial variability. All measured variables except mineral N showed moderate positional dependence. Autocorrelation distances were 400 m for Olsen P, 293 m for AMN, and 347 m for TC. Soil C showed a strong, positive correlation with the amount of clay plus fine silt (<5 µm fraction) and a negative correlation with sand content. These results suggest that textural variation was a major factor influencing within-field variability in soil organic matter. Using the spatial data, zones with different plant nutrient requirements were identified (four for N; two for P). An application strategy that accounts for fertility differences between zones may improve fertilizer use efficiency and contribute to better environmental outcomes; P inputs could be reduced by 50% by avoiding application to the high Olsen P zone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Structural performance of cold-formed steel built-up section members under synchronous non-uniform bending and compression was investigated. • Thirty-five beam-column tests under unequal end moments were conducted to examine the effect of moment gradients. • Failure modes involving local, distortional and flexural buckling were found in the experiments. • Comparisons of experimental loading capacities with nominal strengths were performed to evaluate existing design rules. • Reliability analysis was performed to examine the appropriateness of current design codes. The experimental study presented in this paper aimed to examine the performance of cold-formed steel built-up section beam-columns experiencing non-uniform bending. The test program was performed on built-up open and closed sections that were manufactured from steel grades G500 and G550 zinc-coated sheets. The test specimens were assembled by connecting two identical channels with discrete connectors along the longitudinal direction. Two member lengths and two plate thicknesses were considered for the test specimens to investigate the stability of the newly designed thin-walled section beam-columns. In total, thirty-five beam-column tests were carried out under pinned supports. The test results including loading capacity, failure mode and axial load-lateral deflection response were obtained and are fully reported in this paper. Moreover, the comparison of experimental loading capacities with nominal strengths was conducted to evaluate the applicability of the interaction curves specified in the North American Specification AISI S100, the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4600, the European Code EN 1993–1-1 and the American Specification ANSI/AISC 360 with nominal bending and compression resistances calculated by direct strength method for the thin-walled section beam-column members under moment gradients. Overall, these design methods were conservative for strength predictions of the built-up open section beam-column members under unequal end moments. For the built-up closed section members experiencing synchronous non-uniform bending and compression, the aforementioned design methods generally offered slightly conservative strength predictions, except for the interactive formula in the European Code with bending and compression resistances determined by direct strength method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: To investigate the behavior of Li during low-grade metamorphism and fluid flux in an accretionary prism we measured the Li concentrations ([Li]) and isotopic compositions (δ7Li) of sub-greenschist and greenschist-facies Otago Schist composites, as well as cross-cutting quartz veins, which are interpreted to have precipitated from slab-derived fluids. The average [Li] of sub-greenschist facies composites (41±13μg/g, 2σ) is statistically distinct (97% confidence level, student t test) to that of greenschist facies composites (34±9μg/g, 2σ), which have experienced mass addition of silica in the form of quartz veins having [Li] between 0.4–2.3μg/g. A linear regression of the correlation between [Li] and calculated mass additions suggests that the depletion of [Li] in greenschist facies composites is due to both dilution from the addition of the quartz veins, as well as metamorphic dehydration. The [Li] of both groups of composites correlates with their CIA (Chemical Index of Alteration) values (50–58), which are low, consistent with the inferred graywacke protolith of the Otago Schist. The δ7Li of sub-greenschist and greenschist facies composites are remarkably constant, with an average δ7Li of 0.2±1.7 (2σ) and −0.5±1.9 (2σ), respectively, and comparable to that of the average upper continental crust. Thus, metamorphism has had no discernable effect on δ7Li in these samples. The Li isotopic signature of the schists is similar to that seen in pelitic sedimentary rocks and likely reflects the δ7Li of the protoliths. The surprisingly light δ7Li of the quartz veins (−2.8 to −1.4) likely records kinetic fractionation associated with Li ingress into the veins from surrounding wallrock. An isotopic equilibrium fluid flow model indicates that: 1) if the [Li] of slab-derived fluids is less than a few μg/g, the δ7Li of the overlying lithologies (i.e., the schists) is not significantly influenced by the fluid flux, regardless of the δ7Li of the fluids, 2) the slab-derived fluids will have heavy δ7Li of > +10 after reacting with the prism sediments during their ascent, and 3) the [Li] of the slab-derived fluids is likely in the range of 0<[Li]≤41(μg/g). Thus, isotopically heavy slab-derived fluids that traverse sediments in accretionary prisms may leave little trace in the rocks and their surface compositional characteristics will reflect the net result of their interaction with the sediments of the prism. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

New Zealand farmers are increasingly using improved management systems including moving animals out of paddocks to protect wet soils from damage during winter. The cows can be held for up to 20 h a day on specially constructed unroofed outdoor stand-off pads. A field study was undertaken to investigate excreta nitrogen (N) transformations, N and faecal bacterial transport to drainage, and denitrification N losses when Pinus radiata bark or sawdust were used as filling materials in stand-off pads. About 3 months after use only 4.0% of the N that was deposited on the bark or sawdust pad by cows had been transported to the drainage. Similarly, after the 3 months of use only 9.8% of the Escherichia coli bacteria that were deposited on the bark pad had been transported to the drainage and with even less, 0.3%, leached from the sawdust pad. The sawdust pad tended to retain more Campylobacter than the bark pad. About 6 months after use, gaseous N losses due to denitrification from the sawdust or bark pad accounted for about 4.5 and 1.7% of the deposited excreta N, respectively. Denitrification activity was limited by the available nitrate in the pad materials, and decreased after cows were moved out of the pads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The popularity of bagged salads sold in the market has increased due to their ease of transportation and convenience but there are food safety risks. In this study, we examined the prevalence of Listeria monocytogenes (L. monocytogenes) in 100 samples of ready-to-eat bagged and non-bagged lettuces sold in supermarkets in New Zealand. We found five samples tested positive for L. monocytogenes and two further bagged lettuce samples which tested positive for other Listeria species. None of the un-bagged lettuce samples were contaminated with Listeria. The results of this survey indicate a higher microbial risk associated with consumption of bagged salads. This underlines the need for the fresh produce industry to ensure efficient sanitization of their produce before bagging to reduce the risk of Listeria contamination. • The prevalence of Listeria in lettuces sold in supermarkets in a major city in NZ was found to be 7%. • Listeria contamination in bagged lettuce was higher than un-bagged lettuces sold in supermarkets. • The growing reports of Listeria in lettuce is supported by the results of this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endomyocardial biopsy (EMB) is the gold standard method for surveillance of acute cardiac allograft rejection (ACAR) despite its invasive nature. Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR)-based myocardial tissue characterization allows detection of myocarditis. The feasibility of CMR-based surveillance for ACAR-induced myocarditis in the first year after heart transplantation is currently undescribed.Methods: CMR-based multiparametric mapping was initially assessed in a prospective cross-sectional fashion to establish agreement between CMR- and EMB-based ACAR and to determine CMR cutoff values between rejection grades. A prospective randomized noninferiority pilot study was then undertaken in adult orthotopic heart transplant recipients who were randomized at 4 weeks after orthotopic heart transplantation to either CMR- or EMB-based rejection surveillance. Clinical end points were assessed at 52 weeks.Results: Four hundred one CMR studies and 354 EMB procedures were performed in 106 participants. Forty heart transplant recipients were randomized. CMR-based multiparametric assessment was highly reproducible and reliable at detecting ACAR (area under the curve, 0.92; sensitivity, 93%; specificity, 92%; negative predictive value, 99%) with greater specificity and negative predictive value than either T1 or T2 parametric CMR mapping alone. High-grade rejection occurred in similar numbers of patients in each randomized group (CMR, n=7; EMB, n=8; P=0.74). Despite similarities in immunosuppression requirements, kidney function, and mortality between groups, the rates of hospitalization (9 of 20 [45%] versus 18 of 20 [90%]; odds ratio, 0.091; P=0.006) and infection (7 of 20 [35%] versus 14 of 20 [70%]; odds ratio, 0.192; P=0,019) were lower in the CMR group. On 15 occasions (6%), patients who were randomized to the CMR arm underwent EMB for clarification or logistic reasons, representing a 94% reduction in the requirement for EMB-based surveillance.Conclusions: A noninvasive CMR-based surveillance strategy for ACAR in the first year after orthotopic heart transplantation is feasible compared with EMB-based surveillance.Registration: HREC/13/SVH/66 and HREC/17/SVH/80.Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12618000672257. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) produced by Th17 cells, contributes to the pathogenesis of various autoimmune diseases by stimulating the release of cytokines and chemokines and its regulation. Anti-IL-17A antibody which blocks the function of IL-17A has been proved to be an effective treatment of autoimmune disease. The aim of our study was to generate a potential humanized anti-IL-17A therapeutic monoclonal antibody (mAb) through a comprehensive panel of in vitro and in vivo biological activity studies, as well as physicochemical characterization. HZD37-5, a humanized monoclonal antibody specifically recognizing N78 loci of IL-17A, binds to human and rhesus monkeys, blocks IL-17 induced signal transduction and the release of IL-6, IL-8, CXCL-1 and G-GSF. In an in vivo efficacy mouse model, HZD37-5 significantly inhibited human IL-17A induced-keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC) secretion in a dose-dependent manner. The pharmacokinetics (PK) study result of HZD37-5 in rhesus monkeys indicated that HZD37-5 had favorable PK characteristics with limited distribution (78.0–78.8 ml/kg), slow elimination (5.00–6.45 ml/day/kg), long half-life (9.1–10.7 days) and high bioavailability (103%) following a single IV or SC dose at 1.5 mg/kg. These findings provided a comprehensive preclinical characterization of HZD37-5 and supported that it may be developed as a potential therapeutic for the treatment of autoimmune diseases, including psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis, etc. • Immunization and selection of candidate antibodies in New Zealand white rabbit. • Humanization of 37# rabbit antibody. • Affinity and neutralization activities of humanized antibodies HZD37-1 and HZD37-5. • HZD37-5 inhibited keratinocyte chemoattractant (KC) release induced by human IL-17A in mice. • Epitope mapping for HZD37-5 and pharmacokinetics (PK) of HZD37-5 in rhesus monkeys. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The distribution of slip during an earthquake and how it propagates among faults in the subduction system play a major role in seismic and tsunami hazards, yet they are poorly understood because offshore observations are often lacking. Here we derive the slip distribution and rupture evolution during the 2016 M w 7.9 Kaikōura (New Zealand) earthquake that reconcile the surface rupture, space geodetic measurements, seismological and tsunami waveform records. We use twelve fault segments, with eleven in the crust and one on the megathrust interface, to model the geodetic data and match the major features of the complex surface ruptures. Our modeling result indicates that a large portion of the moment is distributed on the subduction interface, making a significant contribution to the far field surface deformation and teleseismic body waves. The inclusion of local strong motion and teleseismic waveform data in the joint inversion reveals a unilateral rupture towards northeast with a relatively low averaged rupture speed of ∼1.5 km/s. The first 30 s of the rupture took place on the crustal faults with oblique slip motion and jumped between fault segments that have large differences in strike and dip. The peak moment release occurred at ∼65 s, corresponding to simultaneous rupture of both plate interface and the overlying splay faults with rake angle changes progressively from thrust to strike-slip. The slip on the Papatea fault produced more than 2 m of offshore uplift, making a major contribution to the tsunami at the Kaikōura station, while the northeastern end of the rupture can explain the main features at the Wellington station. Our inversions and simulations illuminate complex up-dip rupture behavior that should be taken into consideration in both seismic and tsunami hazard assessment. The extreme complex rupture behavior also brings new challenges to the earthquake dynamic simulations and understanding the physics of earthquakes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bio-absorbable Zn alloys have been attractive replacements for the traditionally permanent implants due to their reasonable mechanical strength and elongation, degradation rate, and biocompatibility. The hybridization addition of Mg and Ag elements could greatly improve the mechanical properties and antibacterial ability of Zn, respectively. In the present paper, in vivo biocompatibility for the Zn-0.05Mg-(0, 0.5, 1 wt%) Ag implants in New Zealand rabbit was qualitatively evaluated during the implantation periods of 4, 12, and 24 weeks. The blood serum biochemical parameters and in vivo integrity of the implants in the live rabbits were monitored by using clinical chemistry analyzing and X-ray radiographic imaging techniques during the implantation process, respectively. There is no great difference in the serum biochemical indicator between the implanted rabbits and the control group. Especially the levels of serum Zn and serum Mg normalize after implantation of 24 weeks. The interfacial adherence between the implants and newly formed bones, and the histopathological morphology of heart, liver, and kidney were observed morphologically under the microscope. The new bones formed and grew surrounding the implants after 12 weeks' post-operation, which were well joined with the original cortical bones after post-implantation of 24 weeks. The heart, liver and kidney were not negatively influenced as evidenced from the serum biochemical indicators and morphologies of the tissues. Zn-0.05Mg-(0, 0.5, 1 wt%) Ag alloys are proved to be in vivo biocompatible and potential candidates for the biodegradable medical implants. • In vivo biocompatibility of Zn-0.05Mg-(0, 0.5, 1 wt%) Ag implants was evaluated. • Addition of Ag into Zn Mg alloy is not toxic to visceral organs. • Zn-0.05Mg-(0, 0.5, 1 wt%) Ag alloys spur the formation of new bones. • Zn-0.05Mg-(0, 0.5, 1 wt%) Ag alloys showed good cohesion with bones. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A bioactive micro/nanostructured calcium phytate coating was successfully prepared on titanium surfaces by chemical conversion deposition, mainly through hydrothermal treatment of a mixed solution of phytic acid and saturated calcium hydroxide solution. Ultraviolet radiation was carried out to improve the adhesion of the coating to the titanium substrate. Pure titanium with a sandblasted/acid-etched surface was used as the control group. The topography and chemical composition of the modified surfaces were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and static water contact angle measurement. A pull-off test was performed to measure the coating-to-substrate adhesion strength. Bovine serum albumin was used as a model to study the protein adsorption effect. Cells were cultured on titanium surfaces for 7 days in osteogenic differentiation medium, then the osteoblast compatibility in vitro were explored by alkaline phosphatase and alizarin red staining. After 1, 2, 4 and 8 wks of immediate implantation of titanium implants into the mandibles of New Zealand white rabbits, biological effects in vivo were researched by microcomputed tomography analysis and histological evaluation. The results indicated that the roughness and hydrophilicity of the modified surfaces with micro/nanostructure remarkably increased compared to those of the control group. The pull-off test showed the average adhesion strength at the coating–substrate interface to be higher than 13.56 ± 1.71 MPa. In addition, approximately 4.41 mg/L calcium ion was released from the calcium phytate micro/nano coatings to the local environment after 48 h of immersion. More importantly, the micro/nanostructure titanium substrates significantly promoted cellular differentiation in vitro and in vivo. After 8 wks, the bone implant contact ratio (BIC, %) of the modified implants was higher than that of the control group, at 94.09 ± 0.55% and 86.18 ± 1.99% (p < 0.05). Overall, this study provided new insights into the factors promoting early osseointegration of titanium alloys, which had great potential not only for dental implants but also for various other biomaterial applications. Unlabelled Image • Micro/nanostructured coating was fabricated by chemical conversion deposition. • Titanium implant is gifted with a stable and superior hydrophilicity. • The calcium-decorated surface releases calcium ions rapidly. • Calcium phytate coating accelerates the osseointegration at an early stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]