bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Powder‐free DNA Extraction Workflow for Skeletal Samples
Authors: Harrel Michelle , Hughes‐Stamm Sheree
Published: October 2019

The processing of skeletal material poses several challenges for forensic laboratories. Current methods can be laborious, time‐consuming, require dedicated equipment, and are vulnerable to contamination. In this study, various sample mass (1 × 50 mg, 3 × 50 mg, and 1 × 150 mg chip(s)) and incubation times (2, 4, and 16 h) were tested using the PrepFiler® BTA™ Forensic DNA Extraction Kit to digest whole bone chips in lieu of powdering. The most effective method was then applied to bones and tooth fragments collected from contemporary human cadavers exposed to various environmental conditions using an automated platform. Over a third of the samples tested generated full DNA profiles without having to powder the bone/tooth fragment or further alter the manufacturer's protocol. However, for most samples resulting in incomplete STR profiles due to low amounts of DNA, slightly better results were achieved with powdered tissue. Overall, this work demonstrates the potential use of a faster, nonpowdering DNA extraction method for processing skeletal samples as an effective first‐pass screening tool.
Determining the Effectiveness of Noncontact Three‐Dimensional Surface Scanning for the Assessment of Open Injuries
Authors: Shamata Awatif , Thompson Tim
Published: October 2019

Noncontact three‐dimensional (3D) surface scanning methods are used within forensic medicine to record traumas and other related findings. A structured light scanning technique is one of these methods and the most suitable for the forensic field. An assessment of the efficiency of different structured light scanners with forensic injuries is essential to validate this technique for wound documentation. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the capability of the HP structured light scanner Pro S3 for digitizing open injuries having complicated areas and depths. Fifteen simulated injuries on mannequins were scanned and assessed. Comparisons between 3D and direct wound measurements were made. The results showed that the technique was able to create detailed 3D results of the extensive injuries. Statistical significance tests revealed no difference between the two measurement methods. Because the scanner is applicable for routine work, it should be considered to confirm the same results on real cadavers and actual wounds.
A cross‐sectional study on factors associated with poor work outcomes in patients with axial spondyloarthritis in Singapore
Authors: Goh Yihui , Kwan Yu Heng , Leung Ying Ying , Fong Warren , Cheung Peter P.
Published: October 2019

Aim

Axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) affects patients in the prime of their economic productivity. We aim to identify factors associated with poor work productivity in patients with axSpA in Singapore.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed in two tertiary centers in Singapore. Consecutive adult patients ≥21 years fulfilling Assessment in Spondyloarthritis International Society (ASAS) 2009 criteria for axSpA were recruited. Data on social demographics, clinical, treatment modalities and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) were collected. Work productivity was assessed by the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment scale (WPAI:SpA). Factors associated with presenteeism, absenteeism, work productivity loss and activity impairment were evaluated.

Results

A total of 156 patients with axSpA were included: 72.4% employed, 80.1% male, 86.5% Chinese, median (Q1:Q3) age and duration of illness 36.7 (28.7:47.9) years, and 6.3 (1.6:12.2) years respectively. The mean (SD) activity impairment was 28.2% (24.3%). Among employed patients, mean (SD) absenteeism, presenteeism and work productivity loss was 4.5% (13.7%), 24.9% (19.9%) and 27.6% (23.2%), respectively. In multivariable analysis, absenteeism was associated with disease duration (P = .02) and EuroQol‐5D (EQ‐5D) (P = .04). Presenteeism was associated with Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) ≥4 (P = .04), Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index (BASFI) (P < .01) and EQ‐5D (P = .02). Work productivity loss was associated with BASFI (P = .02) and EQ‐5D (P < .01). Activity impairment was associated with age (P = .04), BASDAI ≥ 4 (P < .01), BASFI (P < .01), EQ‐5D (P < .01).

Conclusion

Active disease, reduced physical function and poorer quality of life are associated with reduced work productivity in patients with axSpA in Singapore. Addressing these factors can potentially improve work productivity in patients with axSpA.
Gene expression modulation by the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton complex contributes to proteostasis
Authors: Levine Amir , Grushko Danielle , Cohen Ehud
Published: October 2019

Cellular mechanisms that act in concert to maintain protein homeostasis (proteostasis) are vital for organismal functionality and survival. Nevertheless, subsets of aggregation‐prone proteins form toxic aggregates (proteotoxicity) that in some cases, underlie the development of neurodegenerative diseases. Proteotoxic aggregates are often deposited in the vicinity of the nucleus, a process that is cytoskeleton‐dependent. Accordingly, cytoskeletal dysfunction contributes to pathological hallmarks of various neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we asked whether the linker of nucleoskeleton and cytoskeleton (LINC) complex, which bridges these filaments across the nuclear envelope, is needed for the maintenance of proteostasis. Employing model nematodes, we discovered that knocking down LINC components impairs the ability of the worm to cope with proteotoxicity. Knocking down anc‐1, which encodes a key component of the LINC complex, modulates the expression of transcription factors and E3 ubiquitin ligases, thereby affecting the rates of protein ubiquitination and impairing proteasome‐mediated protein degradation. Our results establish a link between the LINC complex, protein degradation, and neurodegeneration‐associated proteotoxicity.
Codeine use and harms in Australia: evaluating the effects of re‐scheduling
Authors: Cairns Rose , Schaffer Andrea L. , Brown Jared A. , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Buckley Nicholas A.
Published: October 2019

Background and aims

Globally, codeine is the most‐used opioid. In December 2016, Australia announced that low‐strength codeine (≤ 15 mg) would be re‐scheduled and no longer available for purchase over‐the‐counter; this was implemented in February 2018. We aimed to evaluate the effect of this scheduling change on codeine misuse and use and misuse of other opioids.

Design and setting

Interrupted time–series analysis of monthly opioid exposure calls to New South Wales Poisons Information Centre (NSWPIC, captures 50% of Australia's poisoning calls), January 2015– January 2019 and monthly national codeine sales, March 2015–March 2019. We incorporated a washout period (January 2017 – January 2018) between the announcement and implementation, when prescriber/consumer behaviour may have been influenced.

Participants

Intentional opioid overdoses resulting in a call to NSWPIC.

Measurements

We used linear segmented regression to identify abrupt changes in level and slope of fitted lines. Codeine poisonings and sales were stratified into high strength (> 15 mg per dose unit) and low strength (≤ 15 mg). Only low‐strength formulations were re‐scheduled.

Findings

We observed an abrupt −50.8 percentage [95% confidence interval (CI) = −79.0 to −22.6%] level change in monthly codeine‐related poisonings and no change in slope in the 12 months after February 2018. There was no increase in calls to the NSWPIC for high‐strength products, level change: –37.2% (95% CI = −82.3 to 8%) or non‐codeine opioids, level change: –4.4% (95% CI = −33.3 to 24.4%). Overall, the re‐scheduling resulted in a level change in opioid calls of −35.8% calls/month (95% CI = −51.2 to −20.4%). Low‐strength codeine sales decreased by 87.3% (95% CI = −88.5 to −85.9%), with no increase in high‐strength codeine sales in the 14 months following re‐scheduling, −4.0% (95% CI = −19.6 to 14.6%).

Conclusions

Codeine re‐scheduling in Australia appears to have reduced codeine misuse and sales.
Cannabis and Cannabinoids in Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Impact on Illness Onset and Course, and Assessment of Therapeutic Potential
Authors: Botsford Sabrina L. , Yang Sharon , George Tony P.
Published: October 2019

Background and Objectives

Cannabis use is common in people with and mood and anxiety disorders (ADs), and rates of problematic use are higher than in the general population. Given recent policy changes in favor of cannabis legalization, it is important to understand how cannabis and cannabinoids may impact people with these disorders. We aimed to assess the effects of cannabis on the onset and course of depression, bipolar disorder, ADs, and post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and also to explore the therapeutic potential of cannabis and cannabinoids for these disorders.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was completed. The PubMed® database from January 1990 to May 2018 was searched. We included longitudinal cohort studies, and also all studies using cannabis or a cannabinoid as an active intervention, regardless of the study design.

Results

Forty‐seven studies were included: 32 reported on illness onset, nine on illness course, and six on cannabinoid therapeutics. Cohort studies varied significantly in design and quality. The literature suggests that cannabis use is linked to the onset and poorer clinical course in bipolar disorder and PTSD, but this finding is not as clear in depression and anxiety disorders (ADs). There have been few high‐quality studies of cannabinoid pharmaceuticals in clinical settings.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

These conclusions are limited by a lack of well‐controlled longitudinal studies. We suggest that future research be directed toward high‐quality, prospective studies of cannabis in clinical populations with mood and ADs, in addition to controlled studies of cannabinoid constituents and pharmaceuticals in these populations. (Am J Addict 2019;00:00–00)
Development and implementation of an enhanced recovery after surgery protocol for renal transplantation
Authors: Dias Brendan H. , Rana Abdul Ahad Muhammad , Olakkengil Santosh A. , Russell Christine H. , Coates Patrick T. H. , Clayton Philip A. , Bhattacharjya Shantanu
Published: October 2019

Background

Successful implementation of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) in kidney transplantation requires multidisciplinary consultation, education and attention to protocol. This study discusses the process implementation pathway of the ERAS protocol and its outcome.

Methods

A standardized ERAS protocol was designed for the renal transplant recipient and implemented in July 2017. Data collected prospectively of recipients transplanted from July 2017 to December 2018 were compared to prospectively collected data of recipients who were transplanted prior to ERAS implementation from January 2016 to July 2017 from our renal database. The parameters of interest included length of stay, incidence of delayed graft function and readmission rate.

Results

There was no difference in the demographics and the incidence of delayed graft function across both groups, although subgroup analysis suggested a significantly lower incidence of delayed graft function with kidneys donated after circulatory death in the cohort that were managed by the ERAS protocol. The median length of stay for patients on the ERAS protocol was 5 days (range 3–16 days). This was 2 days shorter than the median length of stay for patients not on the ERAS protocol (7 days; range 5–14, P < 0.001). This statistically significant difference in length of stay was consistent across all donor subgroups (living donor, donor after cardiac death and donation after brainstem death). Seventy‐nine percent of the patients on the ERAS protocol were discharged on post‐operative day 4.

Conclusion

An ERAS protocol for renal transplant patients is feasible. Our data show that successful implementation of ERAS in kidney transplantation is possible and results in significant cost savings due to shorter length of stay.
Perinatal biomarkers implying ‘Developmental Origins of Health and Disease’ consequences in intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Briana Despina D. , Malamitsi‐Puchner Ariadne
Published: October 2019

The intrauterine‐growth‐restricted (IUGR) state, particularly the asymmetric one, has been associated with ‘Developmental Origins of Health and Disease’ (DOHaD) consequences later in life. Several environmental factors, acting during the phase of foetal developmental plasticity interact with genotypic variation, ‘programme’ tissue function and change the capacity of the organism to cope with its environment. They may be responsible for chronic illness risk in adulthood. Detection of possible future DOHaD consequences at a very early age, by applying relevant biomarkers, is of utmost importance. This review focuses on biomarkers possibly predicting consequences from bone, psychoneural system and lung. Although no concrete biomarker has been identified for bone disorders in adulthood, reduced brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) concentrations in cord blood and BDNF DNA methylation might predict schizophrenia and possibly depression, bipolar disorder and autism. High surfactant protein D (SP‐D) concentrations in cord blood of IUGR foetuses/neonates could point to structural lung immaturity, resulting to asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in adult life.
On justifying arguments of species membership
Authors: Rothhaar Markus
Published: October 2019

In the debate about the moral status of human beings at the margins of life, arguments of species membership are often considered to be the least plausible ones. Against this backdrop, this article explores two possible ways to formulate feasible arguments of species membership. The first is an (in the broadest sense of the word) Aristotelian or neo‐Aristotelian argument; the second is an argument from the intrinsic logic of human rights, which Robert Spaemann refers toas a ‘transcendental‐pragmatic’ argument. On these grounds, the article proposes a philosophical justification for an at least moderate speciesism.
Multibiologism: An anthropological and bioethical framework for moving beyond medicalization
Authors: Wolf‐Meyer Matthew
Published: October 2019

Recent approaches in the medical and social sciences have begun to lay stress on “plasticity” as a key feature of human physiological experiences. Plasticity helps to account for significant differences within and between populations, particularly in relation to variations in basic physiological processes, such as brain development, and, in the context of this article, daily sleep needs. This article proposes a novel basis for the redevelopment of institutions in accordance with growing awareness of human variation in physiological needs, and articulates a theory of multibiologism. This approach seeks to expand the range of “normal” physiological experiences to respond to human plasticity, but also to move beyond critiques of medical practice that see medicine as simply responding to capitalist demands through the medicalization of “natural” processes. Instead, by focusing on how the institutions of U.S. everyday life—work, family, and school—structure the lives of individuals and produce certain forms of sleep as pathological, this article proposes that minor alterations in institutions could result in less pathologization for individuals and communities. Multibiologism provides a foundation for shared priorities in the social sciences, in bioethics, and in medical practice, and may lay the groundwork for emergent collaborations in institutional reform.
Reductions in emergency department presentations associated with opioid agonist treatment vary by geographic location: A retrospective study in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Jones Nicola R. , Shanahan Marian , Dobbins Timothy , Degenhardt Louisa , Montebello Mark , Gisev Natasa , Larney Sarah
Published: October 2019

Introduction and Aims

It is not known if the reduction in ED use during periods of OAT occurs across urgent and low acuity presentations. We aimed to compare the incidence and costs of urgent and low acuity ED presentations of people with opioid use disorder (OUD) in and out of opioid agonist treatment (OAT).

Design and Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study (N=24,875), using linked administrative health data from New South Wales (NSW), Australia. Urgent and low acuity ED incidence and associated costs were calculated for periods in and out of OAT. GEE models estimated the adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) for ED presentations. Average costs per person‐day were calculated with bootstrap confidence intervals.

Results

Incidence of urgent presentations was lower in OAT compared to out of OAT [IRR (95%CI): 0.65 (0.61‐0.69)]. In major cities, low acuity presentations were lower during OAT compared to timeout of OAT [IRR (95%CI): 0.82 (0.70‐0.96)], in regional/remote areas, low acuity presentations were higher during OAT [IRR (95%CI): 2.65 (1.66‐4.21)]. In major cities, average costs for low acuity presentations in OAT were 28% lower atA$0.50 (95%CI: A$0.48‐A$0.52) and A$0.69 (95%CI: A$0.66‐A$0.71) out of OAT, but 103% higher in regional/remote NSW, at A$2.12 (95%CI: A$1.91‐A$2.34) in OAT and A$1.04 (95%CI: A$0.91‐A$1.16) out of OAT.

Discussion and Conclusions

OAT was associated with reductions in urgent ED presentations and associated costs among people with OUD. Geographical variation was evident for low acuity ED presentations, highlighting the need to increase access to OAT in regional/remote areas.
The lived experience of Australian opioid replacement therapy recipients in a community‐based program in regional Victoria
Authors: Patil Vishwanath Tejaswini , Cash Penelope , Cant Robyn , Mummery Jane , Penney Wendy
Published: October 2019

Introduction and Aims

Treatment of opioid dependence through opioid replacement therapy is widely recognised as effective. Nonetheless, while there has been a community‐based program in the state of Victoria for over two decades, consumer experiences have received little attention. This study aimed to describe the experiences of opioid replacement therapy consumers living in rural and regional areas of the state.

Design and Methods

A qualitative design employed an interpretative phenomenological approach. Sixteen consumers were interviewed. Thematic analysis was conducted by the researchers to examine the phenomena of consumers′ experiences and findings were verified by a stakeholder group.

Results

Findings centred on themes of consumers′ experience of becoming recipients; consumer perceptions of pharmacists and pharmacy settings and psychosocial impacts on consumers. A majority of participants believed opioid replacement therapy brought increased normality to their life, however systemic and psychosocial barriers impacted on well‐being. The pharmacy setting itself as a public dosing space commonly provoked feelings of stigma and discrimination among consumers. Other barriers prominently reported were restrictions on number of takeaways, cost of dispensing and lack of access to medical practitioners and allied supports.

Discussion and Conclusions

There were psychosocial impacts on opioid replacement therapy consumers relating to financial and social burdens, stigma and discrimination. Access to medical care and a choice of pharmacy appeared to be restricted in rural regions. The findings suggest a need to address, in particular, the financial and dispensing point burdens experienced by consumers to facilitate program retention.
Operationalising the quality of life construct in studies of alcohol and drug residential rehabilitation programme clients: A systematic review
Authors: Fischer Jane A. , Roche Ann M. , Kostadinov Victoria
Published: October 2019

Introduction and Aims

Quality of life (QOL) is increasingly recognised as an important treatment indicator in the alcohol and other drug (AOD) sector, particularly in treatment modalities providing ‘whole of life programmes’, such as residential rehabilitation. However, it is currently unclear how studies conducted in AOD residential rehabilitation settings have operationally defined and measured QOL. This study therefore aimed to determine current practices in defining and measuring the QOL of residential rehabilitation clients.

Design and Methods

A systematic review of studies examining the QOL of AOD residential rehabilitation clients was conducted. Potential studies published in English between 1990 and 2018 were identified through a search of electronic databases (e.g. PsycINFO and PubMed), search engines (Google Scholar) and article reference lists.

Results

The search identified a total of 1267 records, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. Less than half of the included studies provided an operational definition of QOL. QOL was generally understood to be a subjective, multidimensional, client assessment construct. Twelve different instruments were used to assess QOL, of which two enabled clients to identify QOL dimensions important to themselves.

Discussion and Conclusions

QOL has been inconsistently measured in studies of AOD residential rehabilitation clients. As a result, the comparability and validity of research in this field may be weakened. There is a need to develop a consensual operational definition of QOL, including a core set of domains relevant to and endorsed by residential rehabilitation clients. Appropriate tools to measure client QOL need to be identified and disseminated.
Contrasting patterns of population structure at large and fine geographical scales in a migratory avian disturbance specialist of braided river ecosystems
Authors: Schlesselmann Ann‐Kathrin V. , Dussex Nicolas , Cooper Jamie , Monks Joanne M. , O'Donnell Colin F. J. , Robertson Bruce C.
Published: October 2019

Aim

To understand the population structure and its potential drivers at different spatial scales in a migratory bird, the black‐fronted tern (Chlidonias albostriatus), a specialist of the spatially and temporally dynamic environments of braided rivers.

Location

New Zealand.

Methods

We used a three‐pronged approach based on 17 microsatellites, two mitochondrial loci (cytochrome b/control region) and phenotypic data (head‐bill length, bill depth, wing length, weight). We determined large‐scale genetic structure throughout the whole breeding range (approx. 150,000 km2), calculated genetic divergence of breeding colonies and tested for isolation‐by‐distance between colonies. We investigated the level of fine‐scale genetic structure based on spatial autocorrelation analyses and assessed the presence of a body size cline based on phenotypic data. Lastly, we compared phenotypic divergence (PST) and the level of divergence by genetic drift (FST) among breeding colonies to test for underlying mechanisms of population differentiation.

Results

Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA showed that across their range black‐fronted terns were effectively panmictic, with low genetic divergence between breeding colonies overall and no isolation‐by‐distance. However, at fine geographical scales black‐fronted terns accrued significant genetic structure for distances up to 75 km, primarily driven by males, indicating more frequent female dispersal. Furthermore, a phenotypic cline in accordance with Bergmann's rule was evident. PST exceeded FST in three traits, suggestive of local adaptation.

Main conclusions

Significant fine‐scale structure can be present in highly mobile, specialist species while not affecting spatial structures at larger scales. Hence, methodologies applied to both whole landscapes and local scales are important to appropriately estimate connectivity in dynamic metapopulations and investigate the processes behind connectivity. Conservation management will need to include protecting currently uninhabited patches to facilitate natural colonization of suitable habitat. For black‐fronted terns, managing whole catchments throughout the entire breeding range would be preferable to managing single patches.
Cochrane Rehabilitation and the future of systematic reviews in developmental rehabilitation
Authors: Negrini Stefano , Arienti Chiara , Kiekens Carlotte
Published: October 2019

Video Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRNK_NtNEQk&t=112s
A Validity Argument in Support of the Use of College Admissions Test Scores for Federal Accountability
Authors: Camara Wayne J. , Mattern Krista , Croft Michelle , Vispoel Sara , Nichols Paul
Published: October 2019

In 2018, 26 states administered a college admissions test to all public school juniors. Nearly half of those states proposed to use those scores as their academic achievement indicators for federal accountability under the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA); many others are planning to use those scores for other accountability purposes. Accountability encompasses a number of different uses and subsumes a variety of claims. For states proposing to use summative tests for accountability, a validity argument needs to be developed, which entails delineating each specific use of test scores associated with accountability, identifying appropriate evidence, and offering a rebuttal to counterclaims. The aim of this article is to support states in developing a validity argument for use of college admission test scores for accountability by identifying claims that are applicable across states, along with summarizing existing evidence as it relates to each of these claims. As outlined by The Standards for Educational and Psychological Testing, multiple sources of evidence are used to address each claim. A series of threats to the validity argument, including weaker alignment with content standards and potential influences in narrowing teaching, are reviewed. Finally, the article contrasts validity evidence, primarily from research on the ACT, with regulatory requirements from ESSA. The Standards and guidance addressing the use of a “nationally recognized high school academic assessment” (Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), Negotiated Rulemaking Committee; Department of Education) are the primary sources for the organization of validity evidence.
Commensal association of the common kingfisher with foraging Eurasian otters
Authors: Mougeot François , Rodríguez Ramiro Jonathan
Published: October 2019

Positive interactions between birds and mammals are a fascinating aspect of animal behaviour. Feeding associations may consist of local enhancement or facilitation, and in the latter case, of commensalism or mutualism depending on the benefits received by the facilitator. We report here on a previously undescribed feeding association between piscivorous birds and Eurasian otters Lutra lutra. In Spain, common kingfisher Alcedo atthis and grey heron Ardea cinerea were observed closely following foraging otters and benefited from feeding opportunities provided by these. Behavioural observations of otters in central Spain (28.4 hr; 19 days) revealed that an association with kingfishers occurred in 33% of otter foraging events (n = 92). Simultaneous observations in northern Spain (14.2 hr; 16 days) showed an association between otters and kingfishers or grey herons in 41.6% and 11.7% of otter foraging events (n = 77), respectively. The association probability between kingfishers and otters increased significantly when otters foraged closer to the shore and on small fish rather than other prey (crayfish or large fish). Birds fed on prey remain left by the feeding otters, on small fish captured by otters when these were satiated and playing, or on prey displaced by otters. Our observations are consistent with facilitation and commensalism: piscivorous birds gained feeding opportunities provided by the otters, with no apparent costs or benefits to the latter. Similar feeding associations have been described between other species of otters and piscivorous birds (kingfishers, herons, egrets, storks) in Asia, South America and Southern Africa, but had not yet been described in Europe. The occurrence of piscivorous bird–otter associations in different species and regions suggests that this commensalism may be often overlooked but widespread. We have shown that the association can be frequent and is context‐dependent, with benefits for associating birds depending on otters´ behaviour and targeted prey.
Size‐dependent mating preference of the male fiddler crab Austruca perplexa
Authors: Tina Fahmida Wazed , Muramatsu Daisuke
Published: October 2019

In many animals, females prefer large males to small males, which allow large males to be choosier than small males when selecting a mate. We investigated the courtship intensity of small‐ and large‐sized male fiddler crabs (Austruca perplexa) by examining their claw‐waving rates (waves/min) towards small‐ and large‐sized females. We found that large males showed a greater preference for large females by producing more waves/min towards them, whereas small males did not show any apparent preference for either large or small females. Moreover, the waving rate of large males was positively correlated with female size, but there was no correlation between waving rate and female size in small males. These results indicate that large males in a population become choosier and show strong mate choice, which is most likely due to their greater preference among females.
The second warning to humanity—Why ethology matters?
Authors: Goymann Wolfgang , Küblbeck Martin
Published: October 2019

In 2017, more than 15,000 scientists signed a second warning to humanity to halt human‐made destruction of our planet. The authors of that study encouraged further contributions highlighting specific subjects. With this perspectives article, we follow their call and explore why and how behavioural studies can matter for a better stewardship of the planet. The second warning article suggested 13 effective steps humanity needs to take to transition to a sustainable life. Here, we first provide some examples of how concepts and tools of behavioural biology can aid understanding and solving real‐world conservation problems relating to some of the effective sustainability steps suggested by Ripple et al., (Bioscience, 67, 2017, 1026). Then, we outline how ethological research can contribute to sustainability beyond its contributions to conserving species. Finally, we turn to the second warning and the behaviour of scientists themselves. Science has provided unequivocal evidence that we are destroying the very basis of the existence of millions of species including ourselves. To convince humanity about the urgent necessity to halt and change our behaviour, science organizations, funding bodies and scientists themselves need to become role models for sustainability.
The instrumental power of transnational private governance: Interest representation and lobbying by private rule‐makers
Authors: Renckens Stefan
Published: October 2019

While scholars have researched transnational private governance for over two decades, we still know little about some of the specific political activities in which private rulemaking schemes engage. This article addresses this topic by bringing together hitherto separate literatures on private governance and interest groups. I argue that examining private governance's instrumental power, and interest representation and lobbying specifically, complements the literature's dominant focus on the structural and discursive power of private governance. The article makes three contributions. First, it conceptualizes private governance schemes as interest organizations by analyzing similarities and differences with traditional interest groups. Second, the article examines instrumental power empirically by assessing the participation of 48 transnational private governance schemes in the European Union's lobby register and variation among private governance schemes in this respect. Finally, the article contributes to developing a new research agenda to continue bridging the gap between the private governance and interest group literatures.
Effects of replacing commercial material with apple pomace on the fermentation quality of total mixed ration silage and its digestibility, nitrogen balance and rumen fermentation in wethers
Authors: Fang Jiachen , Xia Guangjun , Cao Yang
Published: October 2019

In this study, we evaluated the fermentation quality, digestibility and rumen fermentation of total mixed ration silage (TMRS) prepared with varying proportions of apple pomace, using four wethers in a 4 × 4 Latin square study design. A control diet was prepared using corn, wheat bran, timothy hay, alfalfa hay and a vitamin–mineral supplement. In the experimental treatments, apple pomace supplemented with soybean meal was used to replace corn and wheat bran at levels of 5%, 10% and 20% on a dry matter (DM) basis; treatment levels are indicated by these replacement levels. The moisture content of all diets was adjusted to 550 g/kg and the diets were then ensiled for 60 days. All diets were well fermented, with low pH and ammonia nitrogen (N) content. In treatments including apple pomace, lactic acid content decreased as acetic acid increased compared with the control (p < .05). Ethanol was generated in the 5%, 10% and 20% treatments. Following the addition of apple pomace, ammonia N content increased, and was highest in the 5% treatment (p < .05). N retention and digestibility of DM, organic matter, crude protein and ether extract decreased significantly (p < .05) in the 10% and 20% treatments. The rumen molar proportion of acetic acid increased, but those of propionic acid and ammonia N content decreased as the proportion of apple pomace in the diets increased (p < .05). The results of this study suggest that the proportion of apple pomace in TMRS should not exceed that of the 5% TMRS treatment, which was 44 g/kg of diet DM.
High levels of serum glycans monovalent IgG immune complexes detected by dissociative ELISA in experimental visceral leishmaniasis
Authors: de Carvalho Camila Aparecida , Ferrão Thiago Fidelis , de Freitas Flávia Regina Novais , de Andrade Heitor Franco
Published: October 2019

Visceral leishmaniasis (VL) is epidemic in Brazil with an increasing incidence of human cases and canine reservoirs, with host hypergammaglobulinemia. Conventional enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (cELISA) based on several parasitic antigens is the main method for diagnosis and indication of treatment. Dissociative ELISA (dELISA) uses acidic treatment to free immunoglobulin G (IgG) from immune complexes, and its use revealed a significant positive fraction of suspected cases with negative serology. Looking for small molecules or haptens that block IgG antibodies, we purified by molecular exclusion chromatography, 1000–3000 MW molecules from promastigote soluble extract, mostly oligosaccharides comprising 6–13 sugar residues using MALDI‐TOF analysis. Glycan‐BSA complex (GBC) was constructed by conjugating promastigote glycans to BSA molecules, allowing their use in the solid support in cELISA or dELISA. Sera from experimentally infected hamsters showed higher levels of blocked monomeric IgG during infection, mostly against GBC, which was also present in lower concentrations in the promastigote soluble extract dELISA. Those data show that most of the specific monomeric IgG in serum are blocked by haptens composed by glycans produced by the parasite, better detected in the high dilution of sera in the dELISA assays. dELISA is a useful technique for detecting blocked monomeric antibodies that could have difficult clearance from blood, which could result in hypergammaglobulinemia.
The experience of patients and family caregivers in managing pneumoconiosis in the family context: A study protocol
Authors: Li Polly W. C. , Yu Doris S. F. , Tam Samuel Y. S.
Published: October 2019

Aim

This study aims to explore the illness experience and needs of patients with pneumoconiosis and the caregiving experience of their respective family caregivers.

Design

This is an exploratory qualitative study.

Methods

Participants will be recruited during the annual patient interview with purposive sampling. Those with a confirmed diagnosis of pneumoconiosis for at least 1 year will be eligible. Patients with different levels of physical dependency will be recruited. The respective family caregivers of these patients, who are ≥21 years of age, assuming the role as primary caregivers of a pneumoconiosis patient will also be invited to join. In‐depth interviews will be conducted in patients’ home separately for patients and their caregivers and a home environment assessment will also be undertaken. The interview data will be transcribed verbatim, managed with the software NVivo 11 and analysed with content analysis. The ethical approval has obtained, and this study is supported by a research grant from the Pneumoconiosis Compensation Fund Board of Hong Kong on 14 August 2018.

Discussion

This study will advance the knowledge on how pneumoconiosis patients and their family caregivers manage the disease in the family context. The findings of this study can inform the development of a family‐oriented care model to support the pneumoconiosis patients and their family caregivers to manage this condition better.

Impact Statement

Pneumoconiosis is the most common type of occupational lung disease in the Chinese population. These patients require long‐term comprehensive services and support to assist their disease self‐management. However, little is known about how these patients and their family caregivers manage the disease in the family context. The current study addresses this gap by exploring patients’ illness experience and their family members’ caregiving experience, which is timely to inform the design of family‐oriented model of care to support this clinical cohort.

Clinical Trial Registration

This study has been registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04022902).
Mammals and long‐distance over‐water colonization: The case for rafting dispersal; the case against phantom causeways
Authors: Ali Jason R. , Vences Miguel
Published: October 2019

In the absence of evidence suggesting former ice or land bridges, the colonization of remote landmasses by non‐aquatic, non‐flying vertebrates is thought to result from long‐distance over‐water rafting (LDOR). However, Mazza et al. (2019) challenge the notion that mammals can make such journeys citing their perceived physiological inadequacies. They claim that lengthy transits combined with lack of food and water plus the stresses imposed by temperature, humidity and salinity render such passages impossible. We, though, contend that this reasoning is wrong. The few cases where LDOR has been invoked for mammal colonization have all involved small‐bodied animals, several of which are able to drastically reduce their metabolic rates through torpor/hibernation when food and water are scarce. Furthermore, there may be sustenance. Crucially, LDOR obviates the need for miraculous short‐lived causeways and the attendant issue of unrecognized large‐scale bidirectional invasions being made by other organisms that had access to the conduits.
SIVcpz cross‐species transmission and viral evolution toward HIV‐1 in a humanized mouse model
Authors: Curlin James , Schmitt Kimberly , Remling‐Mulder Leila , Moriarty Ryan , Stenglein Mark , O'Connor Shelby , Marx Preston , Akkina Ramesh
Published: October 2019

HIV‐1 evolved from its progenitor SIV strains, but details are lacking on its adaptation to the human host. We followed the evolution of SIVcpz in humanized mice to mimic cross‐species transmission. Increasing viral loads, CD4+ T‐cell decline, and non‐synonymous mutations were seen in the entire genome reflecting viral adaptation.
Uncertainty over implications of placental histopathological findings: A survey of Australian and New Zealand neonatologists
Authors: Lieschke Anna , Dahlstrom Jane E , Kent Alison L , Sethna Farah
Published: October 2019

Aim

Placental examination is known to provide useful information following an adverse pregnancy outcome. Despite existing literature and guidelines for placental examination; current workplace practices, attitudes towards the value of placental examination and the knowledge of perinatal clinicians regarding placental lesions of significance are unknown. The aim of the study is to explore the current knowledge of neonatologists and maternal fetal medicine specialists on placental histopathological findings and clinical management based on placental pathology.

Methods

A total of 280 specialists working in perinatal centres across Australia and New Zealand were invited to complete a 20‐question online multiple‐choice‐based survey addressing work‐place placental examination practices, and participant beliefs regarding the utility of histopathological findings and follow‐up practices.

Results

A total of 74 neonatologists participated in the survey (28.2% response rate). Maternal fetal medicine specialists were excluded due to low response rate (2%). A total of 100% of respondents believed placental examination provided useful information regarding recent pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. They reported being aware of the presence of protocols for macroscopic examination of, and indications for histopathological examination of the placenta (55.4 and 54.1%, respectively). Nine neonatologists reported a system for actioning abnormal placental reports. There was no consensus amongst neonatologists as to which specific placental lesions held implications for future pregnancy or neonatal outcomes, and how these findings should be followed.

Conclusions

Our findings show placental examination is valued amongst neonatologists in Australia and New Zealand, but highlights the need for better education regarding the significance and utility of the results and what would be best practice for following up reports.
Morphological and masticatory performance variation of mouth behavior groups
Authors: Franks Erin M. , Jeltema Melissa , Luck Paige J. , Beckley Jacqueline , Foegeding E. Allen , Vinyard Christopher J.
Published: October 2019

Food texture preference and product acceptance are hypothesized to be influenced by mouth behavior. Recent work identified four mouth behavior (MB) groups that describe most consumers in the United States: Chewers, Crunchers, Smooshers, and Suckers. While these behavioral preferences are thought to play a significant role in food selection and purchasing decisions, it is unknown how closely they relate to body and oral cavity measures as well as masticatory apparatus performance. Our objectives were twofold: to determine whether MB groups are related to (a) morphological variation in body, head, and oral cavity size and (b) masticatory apparatus performance (i.e., maximum jaw gape, maximum bite forces at the incisors and first molar). Measurements were collected following an online MB assessment (JBMB Mouth Behavior Typing Tool) where participants self‐identified as one of the four types of consumers. As expected, univariate associations were observed between masticatory performance and overall body as well as oral cavity size. These relationships did not persist when assessed with multivariate methods. MB groups did not differ by body, head, or oral cavity measurements; maximum gape; or maximum bite force. Because of small sample sizes for Smooshers and Suckers—a reflection of their limited prevalence in the U.S. population—we interpret the results for these groups with caution. We can more confidently conclude based on our sample that Chewers and Crunchers do not differ in size, bite force, or maximum gape, suggesting other factors primarily drive food texture choice and preference in these individuals.
Rheopheresis: A new therapeutic approach in severe calciphylaxis
Authors: Robert Thomas , Lionet Arnaud , Bataille Stanislas , Seret Guillaume
Published: October 2019

Aim

Uremic calciphylaxis, also called calcific uraemic arteriolopathy (CUA), is a rare disease with a poor prognosis (mortality between 45% and 80%). Treatment is currently not standardized, and is based mainly on risk factor control, often with administration of sodium thiosulfate. We report the use of rheopheresis, a double filtration apheresis technique, specifically designed to improve blood rheology and tissue perfusion, as adjunctive therapy in eight patients with severe CUA.

Methods

We retrospectively analysed eight cases of severe CUA treated by rheopheresis after failure of conventional measures, including administration of sodium thiosulfate and discontinuation of vitamin K antagonists.

Results

Of the patients, there were 5 (63%) women, the median age was 69 (63.9‐73) years. Four (50%) patients had biopsy‐proven CUA. At diagnosis, the median dialysis vintage was 35 (3.9‐42) months; five (63%) patients were anuric. Weekly median dialysis duration and dose were 12 (12‐12.75) hours and 1.19 (1.13‐1.48) Kt/V per dialysis session, respectively. Median time from CUA onset to first rheopheresis therapy was 26 (3.2‐68) days. Patients started with 2‐3 weekly sessions, coupled with haemodialysis. Complete remission was obtained in five patients (66%) after 25 (19‐39) sessions over a duration of 119 (114‐196) days. Three patients died, two of which resulted from an infectious complication related to CUA.

Conclusion

Rheopheresis is a promising approach, with a good safety profile, for the treatment of CUA. A prospective study with a larger population, would clarify its place in the therapeutic armamentarium.
How bright is gold: is there a photosynthetic advantage to the golden angle?
Authors: Sicard Adrien
Published: October 2019

This article is a Commentary on Strauss et al. (2020), 225: 499–510.
Two pediatric cases of influenza B‐induced rash and mucositis: Stevens‐Johnson syndrome or expansion of the Mycoplasma pneumoniae‐induced rash with mucositis (MIRM) spectrum?
Authors: Goyal Amrita , Hook Kristen
Published: October 2019

We present two pediatric cases of recurrent mucositis associated with influenza B infection, both in patients with prior episodes of Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) due to Mycoplasma. Influenza B is an uncommon cause of both rash and mucosistis and SJS.
HLA‐A*33:03:01:06 allele identified in an individual from the Kashmiri Brahmin population of North India
Authors: Sharma Akanksha , Tyagi Shweta , Gautam Shashi K. , Abid Mohd , Kanga Uma
Published: October 2019

HLA‐A*33:03:01:06 differs from HLA‐A*33:03:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution (T‐ > C) in intron 3.
Evaluation of the AllType kit for HLA typing using the Ion Torrent S5 XL platform
Authors: Cargou Marine , Ralazamahaleo Mamy , Blouin Laura , Top Isabelle , Elsermans Vincent , Andreani Marco , Guidicelli Gwendaline , Visentin Jonathan
Published: October 2019

HLA genotyping by next‐generation sequencing is now widely performed. We aimed at evaluating the performance of the One Lambda AllType kit using Thermo Fisher Scientific reagents on the Ion S5 XL platform. Reads were analyzed using the TypeStream Visual software. We performed 15 runs between April and September 2018 to type DNA at the HLA‐A/B/C/DRB1/3/4/5/DQA1/DQB1/DPA1/DPB1 loci from 340 samples and 15 positive controls. We observed only seven (0.1%) critical mistakes among the 6009 alleles typed, corresponding to two allele dropouts, one false heterozygous typing assignment, and four phasing abnormalities. Among the 1793 presumably new alleles detected by the analysis software, 11 displayed exon mismatches, of which nine were confirmed as new alleles and two had been described previously. Intron mismatches were observed among the remaining presumably new alleles, of which 371 were considered as probably new, and 1411 were rejected for at least one sequence feature such as homopolymers (n = 1206), nucleotide doublet repeats (n = 26), low read depth (<200 reads, n = 93), high background (>20%, n = 79), or phasing abnormalities (n = 7). A comparison of the AllType results with those obtained using other methods at the second‐field resolution level showed 99.5% (1497/1504) concordance for the HLA‐A/B/C/DRB1/DQB1/DPB1 loci. Similar agreement was observed between the HLA‐C or HLA‐DRB3/4/5 results and common linkage disequilibrium, with 96.6% (657/680) and 97.2% (530/545) concordance, respectively. Therefore, the AllType kit used with the Ion S5 XL platform displayed satisfactory performance for HLA typing in current clinical practice.