bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conflicting roles of cell geometry, microtubule deflection and orientation-dependent dynamic instability in cortical array organization
Authors: Tian Tim Y.Y. , Wasteneys Geoffrey O. , Macdonald Colin B. , Cytrynbaum Eric N.
Published: September 2024

The self-organization of cortical microtubule arrays within plant cells is an emergent phenomenon with important consequences for the synthesis of the cell wall, cell shape, and subsequently the structure of plants. Mathematical modelling and experiments have elucidated the underlying processes involved. There has been recent interest in the influence of geometric cues on array orientation, be it direct (cell shape) or indirect (tension in the membrane). However, the mechanical influence of membrane curvature on these elastic filaments has largely been ignored. A previous model was proposed to describe how the anchoring process may control the deflection of individual microtubules seeking to minimize bending on a cylindrical cell. We implement this process into a model of interacting microtubules and find the cell curvature influence should be significant: the array favours orientations parallel to the direction of elongation rather than the expected transverse direction. Even without elasticity, the geometry of large cells hinders robust microtubule organization. These results suggest the necessity of additional processes to overcome these factors. We propose a simple model of orientation-dependent catastrophe in the context of cellulose microfibrils impeding microtubule polymerization and find a moderate impedance to be sufficient to generate transverse arrays despite the geometric influences.
Investigation of risk factors associated withAncylostomaspp. infection and the benzimidazole F167Y resistance marker polymorphism in dogs from the United States
Authors: Jimenez Castro Pablo D. , Willcox Jennifer L. , Rochani Haresh , Richmond Holly L. , Martinez Heather E. , Lozoya Cecilia E. , Savard Christian , Leutenegger Christian M.
Published: September 2024

Ancylostoma caninumis the most significant intestinal nematode parasite of dogs. We acquired fecal surveillance data using molecular diagnostics in a large population of dogs in the United States (US). A diagnostic test using real-time PCR (qPCR) forAncylostomaspp. and allele-specific qPCR detecting the SNP F167Y was used in 885,424 canine fecal samples collected between March 2022 and December 2023. Overall,Ancylostomaspp. had a prevalence of 1.76% (15,537/885,424), with the highest observed in the South 3.73% (10,747/287,576), and the lowest in the West 0.45% (632/140,282). Within the subset ofAncylostomaspp.-detected dogs used for further analysis, the F167Y SNP had an overall prevalence of 14.2% with the highest in the West and the lowest in the Midwest (10.76%). The greyhound breed exhibited a higher prevalence ofAncylostomaspp. infections (17.03%) and a higher prevalence of the F167Y polymorphism (33.6%) compared to non-greyhound breeds (13.7% and 2.08%), respectively, but were not associated with the highest breed risk for the F167Y polymorphism. Sex did not influence hookworm infection nor F167Y polymorphism prevalence. Intact dogs had a prevalence of hookworm infection and F167Y polymorphism of 2.51% and 14.6%, respectively. Puppies showed increased prevalence of hookworms (3.70%) and the F167Y SNP (17.1%). Greyhounds, bluetick coonhounds, and boerboels had the highest relative risks (RR) for hookworm infection, while Cavalier King Charles spaniels, Havanese, and shiba inus had the lowest. The top and bottom three with the highest and lowest RR for the F167Y SNP were the old English sheepdog, American foxhound, and toy poodle Toy, and shih tzu, Maltese, and Australian cattle dogs, respectively. This study highlights the value of an accessible diagnostic qPCR test with fast turnaround times in unraveling the molecular epidemiology of hookworms and benzimidazole resistance, as well as explore potentially important risk factors associated with infection in medicalized dogs.

Highlights

- Greyhounds had the highest RR relative risk forAncylostomaspp., but only fourth for theA. caninumF167Y polymorphism.

- The highest prevalence ofAncylostomaspp. in the United States was in the South.

- The West had the lowest prevalence forAncylostomaspp., but the highest prevalence for theA. caninumF167Y SNP.

- Puppies had the highest prevalence and AOR forAncylostomaspp. and F167Y polymorphism.
Aging transitions of multimodal oscillators in multilayer networks
Authors: Barać Uroš , Perc Matjaž , Gosak Marko
Published: September 2024

When individual oscillators age and become inactive, the collective dynamics of coupled oscillators is often affected as well. Depending on the fraction of inactive oscillators or cascading failures that percolate from crucial information exchange points, the critical shift toward macroscopic inactivity in coupled oscillator networks is known as the aging transition. Here, we study this phenomenon in two overlayed square lattices that together constitute a multilayer network, whereby one layer is populated with slow Poincaré oscillators and the other with fast Rulkov neurons. Moreover, in this multimodal setup, the excitability of fast oscillators is influenced by the phase of slow oscillators that are gradually inactivated toward the aging transition in the fast layer. Through extensive numerical simulations, we find that the progressive inactivation of oscillators in the slow layer nontrivially affects the collective oscillatory activity and the aging transitions in the fast layer. Most counterintuitively, we show that it is possible for the intensity of oscillatory activity in the fast layer to progressively increase to up to 100%, even when up to 60% of units in the slow oscillatory layer are inactivated. We explain our results with a numerical analysis of collective behavior in individual layers, and we discuss their implications for biological systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Signatures of criticality in turning avalanches of schooling fish
Authors: Puy Andreu , Gimeno Elisabet , March-Pons David , Miguel M. Carmen , Pastor-Satorras Romualdo
Published: September 2024

Moving animal groups transmit information through propagating waves or behavioral cascades, exhibiting characteristics akin to systems near a critical point from statistical physics. Using data from freely swimming schooling fish in an experimental tank, we investigate spontaneous behavioral cascades involving turning avalanches, where large directional shifts propagate across the group. We analyze several avalanche metrics and provide a detailed picture of the dynamics associated with turning avalanches, employing tools from avalanche behavior in condensed-matter physics and seismology. Our results identify power-law distributions and robust scale-free behavior through data collapses and scaling relationships, confirming a necessary condition for criticality in fish schools. We explore the biological function of turning avalanches and link them to collective decision-making processes in selecting a new movement direction for the school. We report relevant boundary effects arising from interactions with the tank walls and influential roles of boundary individuals. Finally, spatial and temporal correlations in avalanches are explored using the concept of aftershocks from seismology, revealing clustering of avalanche events below a designated timescale and an Omori law with a faster decay rate than observed in earthquakes.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Navigating a double school-to-work transition: how do Chinese graduate students decide where to start their careers after studying abroad?
Authors: Dong Di , Akkermans Jos , Khapova Svetlana N.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This exploratory research aims to unravel how Chinese international students form their decisions regarding the school-to-work transition (sometimes also referred to as the university-to-work transition) when studying abroad.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the concepts of school-to-work transition and cultural approaches to investigate how Chinese graduate students make career decisions to navigate the school-to-work transition in the context of international mobility. The authors' empirical study is based on 30 semi-structured interviews conducted with Chinese graduate students studying in the Netherlands.

Findings

The authors discovered four patterns with two major subgroups among Chinese students studying in the universities in the Netherlands based on their initial intentions: return-return, open-return, open-stay and stay-stay. These patterns made sense when navigating the school-to-work transition: participants experienced varied international experiences, cultural perceptions and acknowledgment influences when enhancing employability and shaping their career decisions. Participants in the return-return and stay-stay groups indicated strong resilience and consistency in achieving their goals and strongly focused on long-term objectives. However, participants' open-return decision demonstrated a thoughtful alignment of personal goals and knowledge of the possible beneficial influence they may have in their home country. Open-stay participants utilized the overseas study opportunity to finalize their decisions and increase their employability in the local labor market, thereby creating a transition from university to work in the host country.

Originality/value

The authors highlight the way Chinese graduate students manage their international experience and provide novel insights into the role played by the cultural characteristics of their home country and host country.
Investigating the role of path architecture complexity in users’ movement patterns in hospital circulation systems: case studies in Golestan, Iran
Authors: Saeidi Maryam , Siyahkali Mahsa Delshad , Moradinasab Hossein , Naseri Gholamhossein
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how users’ movement is influenced by different hospital ward layouts, by using space syntax theory. This study also compared four circulation patterns to find the best one for the study goal.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used both qualitative and quantitative methods to study how users’ wayfinding in hospitals depends on various indicators and factors. The study used Depth Map software to do case studies and then analyzed the indicators from theoretical foundations and used the Pearson Test to check the correlation between indicators. This study also looked at Iran’s Ministry of Health standards for ward layouts. Finally, the results obtained from the research data were compared to achieve a suitable model based on the research objectives.

Findings

The linear-patterned plan was the best for easy wayfinding and accessibility among four patterns. The optimal hospital circulation patterns can improve wayfinding and reduce wayfinding problems and user movement.

Originality/value

By pioneering space syntax in hospital research, this study unveils the novel interaction between path architecture and user movement. It gives new insights into current trends, helping architects, administrators and policymakers improve health-care design, efficiency and patient experience.
Large-scale agile security practices in software engineering
Authors: Ascenção Cláudia , Teixeira Henrique , Gonçalves João , Almeida Fernando
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Security in large-scale agile is a crucial aspect that should be carefully addressed to ensure the protection of sensitive data, systems and user privacy. This study aims to identify and characterize the security practices that can be applied in managing large-scale agile projects.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study is carried out through 18 interviews with 6 software development companies based in Portugal. Professionals who play the roles of Product Owner, Scrum Master and Scrum Member were interviewed. A thematic analysis was applied to identify deductive and inductive security practices.

Findings

The findings identified a total of 15 security practices, of which 8 are deductive themes and 7 are inductive. Most common security practices in large-scale agile include penetration testing, sensitive data management, automated testing, threat modeling and the implementation of a DevSecOps approach.

Originality/value

The results of this study extend the knowledge about large-scale security practices and offer relevant practical contributions for organizations that are migrating to large-scale agile environments. By incorporating security practices at every stage of the agile development lifecycle and fostering a security-conscious culture, organizations can effectively address security challenges in large-scale agile environments.
Embracing the future of interactive marketing with contactless technology: evidence from tourism businesses
Authors: Ku Edward C.S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study explores how predictor variables (value congruence and customer–AI-assisted exchanges) lead tourism businesses to meet customer needs through contactless technology and enhance their willingness to pay more.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was designed from the perspective of consumer-brand relationships and acceptance of AI device use. This study collected and analyzed 647 valid questionnaires using the structural equation modeling (SEM) approach.

Findings

The findings indicate that value congruence and customer-AI-assisted exchanges (CAIX) affect intimacy. Intimacy affects satisfaction and the willingness to pay more for contactless technological services. Moreover, brand trust and sensory brand experience play a role in moderating contactless technological services.

Originality/value

Effective interactions between customers and AI-assisted services significantly contribute to overall satisfaction. When AI systems can understand and respond appropriately to customer queries, needs, and preferences, they enhance customer experience and satisfaction levels, increasing overall customer satisfaction with AI services.
Drivers of the use of digital platforms by Portuguese parishes – how small government entities struggle with the demand for transparency
Authors: Gomes Patrícia , Budding Tjerk , Fernandes Maria J.
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The provision of online information through the use of digital platforms (websites and social networks) can be helpful for public sector organisations to promote transparency and accountability, thereby bringing it closer to citizens, more accessible and with higher added value for society. Whereas the call for government transparency is manifest and seems to be equal for all parts of government, this paper investigates whether small government entities are able to cope with this demand. In addition, the drivers of digital platforms are investigated in the context of Portuguese parishes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows a quantitative research approach based on an original data set with more than 3,000 observations collected in two different time periods (2015 and 2020), which looks at the parishes’ use of website and Facebook.

Findings

Findings show that about half of Portuguese parishes, which are mostly small entities with on average fewer than 3,500 inhabitants, have an institutional website, whereas almost three out of four have Facebook. The empirical analyses reveal that a lack of organisational capacity of small entities can be an obstacle for the use of an institutional website and of Facebook. Furthermore, factors from the provider side (e.g. being part of a merger, participation in previous elections) and the user side (e.g. having access to broadband internet) are also found to have an influence on the adoption, use, and dropping of a digital platform.

Originality/value

The use of an original data set with more than 3,000 observations, and the research of the influence of size as a proxy of organisational capacity on the presence of parishes on the internet and Facebook, are innovative elements of this paper. In addition, this study adds to the knowledge about the influence of organisational, political, and socio-demographic characteristics on the use of digital platforms by small government entities.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/OIR-04-2023-0171
Parameters of sustainability: a systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis with respect to micro enterprises
Authors: Biswas Bappaditya , Gupta Rohan Prasad , Sharma Mantosh
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a thorough analysis of the literature on the parameters of sustainability of the micro-enterprises. It seeks to provide an organizing framework to identify research gaps and future directions. Using data from Web of Science and Scopus, the study offers insights into key trends, authorship and thematic shifts, informing future research design and positioning.

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers used a systematic review methodology, gathering data from Web of Science and Scopus databases. R Studio software facilitated bibliometric analysis. This study scrutinized research papers to construct an organizing framework and identify thematic trends in sustainability parameters for micro-enterprises.

Findings

The review presents a comprehensive overview of sustainability parameters in micro-enterprises, revealing significant research trends, key authors, countries and journals. It identifies gaps and suggests future research directions, aiding in the design and positioning of forthcoming studies in this domain.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations may include the scope of databases accessed and potential biases in the selected literature. Future studies could explore additional databases or incorporate qualitative analyses for deeper insights into sustainability parameters in micro-enterprises.

Practical implications

This study offers practical insights for policymakers, practitioners and researchers by highlighting key sustainability parameters in micro-enterprises. It informs decision-making processes concerning resource allocation, policy formulation and support mechanisms for sustainable development.

Social implications

Understanding sustainability parameters in micro-enterprises has significant social implications, particularly for vulnerable groups like craftsmen, women and young entrepreneurs. By addressing these parameters, interventions can enhance livelihoods and contribute to broader socio-economic development.

Originality/value

By providing a thorough analysis of sustainability factors in micro-enterprises and applying bibliometric analysis to shed light on research trends, this paper adds to the body of literature. Its organized framework identifies gaps and guides future research, offering value to scholars, policymakers and practitioners invested in sustainable development at the grassroots level.
Engaging healthcare teams to increase access to medications for opioid use disorder
Authors: Oberman Rebecca S. , Huynh Alexis K. , Cummings Kelsey , Resnick Adam , Taylor Stephanie L. , Bergman Alicia A. , Chang Evelyn T.
Published: September 2024

Objective

To assess the effectiveness of evidence‐based quality improvement (EBQI) as an implementation strategy to expand the use of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) within nonspecialty settings.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We studied eight facilities in one Veteran Health Administration (VHA) region from October 2015 to September 2022 using administrative data.

Study Design

Initially a pilot, we sequentially engaged seven of eight facilities from April 2018 to September 2022 using EBQI, consisting of multilevel stakeholder engagement, technical support, practice facilitation, and data feedback. We established facility‐level interdisciplinary quality improvement (QI) teams and a regional‐level cross‐facility collaborative. We used a nonrandomized stepped wedge design with repeated cross sections to accommodate the phased implementation. Using aggregate facility‐level data from October 2015 to September 2022, we analyzed changes in patients receiving MOUD using hierarchical multiple logistic regression.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Eligible patients had an opioid use disorder (OUD) diagnosis from an outpatient or inpatient visit in the previous year. Receiving MOUD was defined as having been prescribed an opioid agonist or antagonist treatment or a visit to an opioid substitution clinic.

Principal Findings

The probability of patients with OUD receiving MOUD improved significantly over time for all eight facilities (average marginal effect [AME]: 0.0057, 95% CI: 0.0044, 0.0070) due to ongoing VHA initiatives, with the probability of receiving MOUD increasing by 0.577 percentage points, on average, each quarter, totaling 16 percentage points during the evaluation period. The seven facilities engaging in EBQI experienced, on average, an additional 5.25 percentage point increase in the probability of receiving MOUD (AME: 0.0525, 95%CI: 0.0280, 0.0769). EBQI duration was not associated with changes.

Conclusions

EBQI was effective for expanding access to MOUD in nonspecialty settings, resulting in increases in patients receiving MOUD exceeding those associated with temporal trends. Additional research is needed due to recent MOUD expansion legislation.
Reliable technique for acromion density assessment on CT
Authors: Su Shu , Chen Xiao , Warby Sarah , Tate Julie , Brooke Penelope , Barwood Shane , Hoy Gregory , Soo Brendan , Dallalana Richard , Wright Warwick , Rotstein Andrew H
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Acromial stress fracture (ASF) is an uncommon but acknowledged complication of reverse total shoulder arthroplasty (RTSA). There is no standardised method to directly measure the bone mineral density of the acromion to allow a detailed analysis of the potential mechanism of ASF. The aim is to establish a reliable and reproducible technique for measurement of acromial density on computer tomography (CT).

Methods

A retrospective review on CT scans obtained for three groups of patients: those planned for RTSA (n = 26); age and gender‐matched non‐operative (n = 26); and young non‐operative patients (n = 28) were performed. Standardised axial images of 1 mm thickness at 1 mm increments were created following horizontal straightening on the coronal and sagittal views. To assess inter‐rater reliability, two senior CT radiographers performed density measurements using standard region of interest (ROI) tool on the CTs with the ROI placed on the mid (ROI 1) and posterior (ROI 2) acromion. ROIs were selected as the most common locations for acromion fracture post RTSA. Measurements were repeated at least 6 weeks apart. Intra‐class coefficients (ICC) were used to determine intra‐ and inter‐rater reliability.

Results

ICCs demonstrated good to high intra‐rater and inter‐rater reliability for both ROI 1 and ROI 2 across all three groups. The lower margin of 95% confidence intervals was more than 0 for all intra‐class coefficients.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a reliable method of measuring acromion density on CT. This method can be used to assess bone mineral density in the clinical setting and in future studies investigating ASF following RTSA.
Characterizing Spanish‐speaking patients’ patient‐centered care experiences in the emergency department
Authors: Schwei Rebecca J. , Geiger Gabriella , Mirrielees Jenn , Center Alexandra , Enemuoh Alyana , Portillo Recinos Ashley , Arias Franchesca , Lor Maichou , Shah Manish N. , Wiegmann Douglas , Pulia Michael S.
Published: September 2024

Background

Patient‐centered care (PCC) is an essential component of high‐quality health, yet patients with non–English language preferences (NELP) experience worse PCC outcomes. Additionally, there are likely unique aspects to PCC for patients with NELP in the emergency department (ED). To inform the development of strategies to improve PCC for NELP in the ED, we sought to understand how Spanish‐speaking ED patients experience care and the factors that influenced their perceptions of the patient‐centeredness of that care.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center qualitative study using semistructured interviews with adult, Spanish‐speaking patients who had been discharged home from the ED. Interviews were conducted using an interview guide, recorded, transcribed, and analyzed iteratively in Spanish using inductive and deductive thematic analysis.

Results

We conducted 19 interviews with participants from 24 to 72 years old. Participants were born in seven different Spanish‐speaking countries. Participants identified three domains of PCC: patient, medical team's skills, and system. Several of the identified themes such as shared decision making, open communication, compassionate care, and coordination of follow‐up care are often incorporated into PCC definitions. However, other themes, including uncertainty leading to fear, use of professional interpreters to promote understanding, receiving equitable care, technical proficiency, and efficiency of care expand upon existing domains in PCC definitions.

Conclusions

We now have a more nuanced understanding of how Spanish‐speaking patients with NELP experience PCC in the ED and what matters to them. Several of the themes identified in this analysis add details about what matters to patients within the domains of previous PCC definitions. This suggests that the conceptualization of PCC may vary based on the setting where care is provided and the population who is receiving this care. Future work should consider patient population and setting when conceptualizing PCC.
Running toward rankings: Ranked choice voting's impact on candidate entry and descriptive representation
Authors: Colner Jonathan
Published: September 2024

Does the implementation of a ranked choice voting (RCV) system increase the number, diversity, and quality of candidates competing in local elections? Using original data from 273 cities across three decades and employing a preregistered difference‐in‐differences design with matching, I find that the size of the candidate pool increases following implementation. However, this effect dissipates in later election cycles, indicating that RCV has no long‐term effect on candidate entry. Indeed, the short‐term increase in the candidate pool mostly reflects increased entry by low‐quality candidates with little chance of winning. Additionally, I find that RCV has no effect on the proportion of female and non‐white candidates running for office. These results call into question several purported benefits of RCV and suggest that RCV, by itself, might not be sufficient to influence candidate entry at the local level.
From Coercive to Carceral Conservation: Reframing Conservation through Abolition Ecologies
Authors: de Jong Marlotte , McCoy Ember , Butt Bilal
Published: September 2024

Critical social science research on conservation practice has long articulated the tactics that emerge out of a history of carcerality, environmental racism, colonialism, and violence against oppressed peoples. Despite these critiques, there has been little change in how conservation is conceptualised and implemented, resulting in the continuation of violence, racism, and injustice. Abolition ecologies offer a framework to see the world through a carceral lens and imagine an abolitionist future for conservation. Using Kenya as a case study, we outline the three ways that carcerality is apparent in and integral to contemporary conservation practices: legal/juridical, technoscience, and privatisation. Illuminating the carcerality of conservation practices, we posit, allows scholars and practitioners to begin to imagine and work towards a more just and liberatory conservation movement, one that minimises the perpetuation and reproduction of white supremacy, violence, and environmental injustice.
Induction prior to autologous haematopoietic cell transplantation in multiple myeloma
Authors: Mohty Mohamad , Malard Florent
Published: September 2024

Induction chemotherapy followed by autologous haematopoietic cell transplantation and post‐transplant therapy (including maintenance therapy with or without prior consolidation) is still considered as the standard of care for newly diagnosed young and fit multiple myeloma patients. Over the last years, superiority of quadruplet regimens for induction was established, with the addition of an anti‐CD38 monoclonal antibody to triplet regimen including a proteasome inhibitor, an IMiD (thalidomide or lenalidomide) or cyclophosphamide, and dexamethasone. Given quadruplet induction regimens are associated with deep response, including a high‐rate of sustained measurable residual disease negativity in a significant proportion of patients, they are now recommended for induction chemotherapy when available.
Sedimentology and structure of the Paleogene Nummulitic series of Corsica: Reconstruction of the southern termination of the western Alpine foreland basin
Authors: Van de Vyver Caroline , Carpentier Cédric , Ford Mary , Vergés Jaume , Melinte‐Dobrinescu Mihaela
Published: September 2024

Nummulitic Limestones deposits are preserved along the tectonic contact between the Variscan basement and Alpine units of Corsica. These marine carbonates, dated from the Late Palaeocene to the Middle Eocene, were deposited within a foreland flexural basin that is considered to be the southern continuation of the Alpine foreland basin of southeast (SE) France. However, in contrast with the Nummulitic Limestones of SE France, those of Corsica are far less documented. This field‐based study constrains the sedimentology, stratigraphy and structure of the Nummulitic Limestones of Corsica in three localities (Balagne, Corte and Sari‐Solenzara) to identify factors that controlled foreland basin development and to clarify its significance within the early alpine orogen. The microfacies, microfaunal assemblages and siliciclastic fractions are characterised throughout the succession at each locality. The results indicate the existence of an important Variscan basement relief to the west of the basin (West Corsican Massif) that supplied early alluvial fans found at the base of the foreland succession in the northernmost Balagne area. Continuous high clastic input strongly reduced the development and diversity of the overlying Nummulitic Limestones facies and fauna. Further south, limestones in the Corte and Sari‐Solenzara areas are thicker and contain richer fauna. Three depositional models corresponding to the carbonate ramp system are proposed for the Nummulitic Limestones and used to construct paleogeographic maps illustrating the transgressive evolution of the Corsican foreland basin from the Early to the Late Eocene. Based on our results and available regional tectonic data and LT thermochronological data, we propose that the Nummulitic marine transgression took place within a continuous foreland basin encompassing southern Corsica and SE France during the early development of the western alpine arc.
A review of commercial captive breeding of parrots as a supply‐side intervention to address unsustainable trade
Authors: Davies Alisa , D'Cruze Neil , Martin Rowan
Published: September 2024

The volume and scale of commercial captive breeding of parrots have grown dramatically in recent decades. Although it has been proposed, and is often assumed, that captive breeding can reduce pressure on wild populations, there has been little scrutiny of the scale, viability, or impacts of captive breeding to prevent overexploitation among parrots, compared with similar approaches in other threatened taxa, such as pangolins or tigers. We reviewed the primary and gray literature to quantitatively and qualitatively evaluate evidence concerning 5 criteria, established a priori, for commercial captive breeding of parrots as an effective supply‐side intervention. We focused on a sample of 16 threatened parrot species that are heavily traded or for which unsustainable trade has been a factor in the decline of wild populations, representing a range of taxonomic groups, life histories, and native regions. We identified multiple major gaps in knowledge of the extent to which these criteria are met, including a lack of quantitative data on breeding productivity under current commercial breeding practices, the scale and scope of commercial breeding practices in growing parrot markets, particularly in the Middle East and Asia, and the lack of financial viability of captive breeding under effective regulation to prevent laundering or use of wild‐sourced specimens as breeding stock. The capacity for captive breeding to displace demand for wild‐sourced parrots varied between species, and complex interactions between trade in different species and contexts sometimes made consequences of commercial production difficult to predict. Decision makers and regulatory authorities should approach commercial captive breeding of parrots with caution and take into account knowledge gaps and cross‐linkages between trade in different species to avoid unanticipated consequences from stimulating and facilitating unsustainable trade in wild‐sourced parrots.
Quantifying species biases among multidata sources on illegal wildlife trade and its implications for conservation
Authors: Hu Sifan , Liang Zhijian , Liang Dan , Liu Yang , Zhong Jia , Wei Qian , Lee Tien Ming
Published: September 2024

Unsustainable wildlife consumption and illegal wildlife trade (IWT) threaten biodiversity worldwide. Although publicly accessible data sets are increasingly used to generate insights into IWT, little is known about their potential bias. We compared three typical and temporally corresponding data sets (4204 court verdicts, 926 seizure news reports, and 219 bird market surveys) on traded birds native to China and evaluated their possible species biases. Specifically, we evaluated bias and completeness of sampling for species richness, phylogeny, conservation status, spatial distribution, and life‐history characteristics among the three data sets when determining patterns of illegal trade. Court verdicts contained the largest species richness. In bird market surveys and seizure news reports, phylogenetic clustering was greater than that in court verdicts, where songbird species (i.e., Passeriformes) were detected in higher proportions in market surveys. The seizure news data set contained the highest proportion of species of high conservation priority but the lowest species coverage. Across the country, all data sets consistently reported relatively high species richness in south and southwest regions, but markets revealed a northern geographic bias. The species composition in court verdicts and markets also exhibited distinct geographical patterns. There was significant ecological trait bias when we modeled whether a bird species is traded in the market. Our regression model suggested that species with small body masses, large geographical ranges, and a preference for anthropogenic habitats and those that are not nationally protected were more likely to be traded illegally. The species biases we found emphasize the need to know the constraints of each data set so that they can optimally inform strategies to combat IWT.
Effects of trade and poaching pressure on extinction risk for cacti in the Atacama Desert
Authors: Villalobo‐Lopez Angelica , Peña Carol M. , Varas‐Myrik Antonio , Pillet Michiel , Jahnsen Paulina , Pliscoff Patricio , Goettsch Bárbara , Guerrero Pablo C.
Published: September 2024

In this era of a global biodiversity crisis, vascular plants are facing unprecedented extinction rates. We conducted an assessment of the extinction risk of 32 species and 7 subspecies of Copiapoa, a genus endemic to Chile's fog‐dependent coastal Atacama Desert. We applied the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List Categories and Criteria enhanced by expert insights and knowledge. Our primary aim was to analyze the impact of trade and poaching on their extinction risk. We employed machine learning models, including multinomial logistic regression (MLR), decision tree (DT), and random forest (RF), to analyze the relationships between conservation status and various factors. These factors encompassed trade and poaching activities, landscape condition, human footprint, monthly cloud frequency, and biological traits such as evolutionary distinctiveness and maximum diameter. Seven taxa had an area of occupancy (AOO) of <10 km2, 10 additional taxa had an AOO of <20 km2, and 16 taxa had an AOO of ≤100 km2. This reassessment exposed a critical level of extinction risk for the genus; 92% of the taxa were classified as threatened, 41% as critically endangered, 41% as endangered, and 10% as vulnerable. MLR, DT, and RF exhibited accuracies of 0.784, 0.730, and 0.598, respectively, and identified trade and poaching pressure and landscape condition as the primary drivers of extinction risk. Our assessment of Copiapoa showed trade, poaching, habitat degradation, and their synergic impacts as the main drivers of the genus’ extinction risk. Our results highlight the urgent need for nations to develop and enforce strategies to monitor and control trade and poaching pressure because these factors are crucial for the long‐term persistence of desert plants.
Scale of unregulated international trade in Australian reptiles and amphibians
Authors: Chekunov Sebastian , Stringham Oliver , Toomes Adam , Prowse Thomas , Cassey Phillip
Published: September 2024

Reptiles and amphibians are popular in the exotic pet trade, where Australian species are valued for their rarity and uniqueness. Despite a near‐complete ban on the export of Australian wildlife, smuggling and subsequent international trade frequently occur in an unregulated and unmonitored manner. In 2022, Australia listed over 100 squamates in Appendix III of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) to better monitor this trade. We investigated current trade and assessed the value of this Australian CITES listing using web‐scraping methods to monitor the online pet trade in Australian reptiles and amphibians, with additional data from published papers, trade databases, and seizure records. Despite the export ban, we identified 170 endemic herpetofauna (reptile and amphibian) species in international trade, 33 of which were not recorded previously in the international market, including 6 newly recorded genera. Ninety‐two traded species were included in CITES appendices (59 added in 2022), but at least 78 other traded species remained unregulated. Among these, 5 of the 10 traded threatened species were unlisted, and we recommend they be considered for inclusion in CITES Appendix III. We also recommend the listing of all Diplodactylidae genera in Appendix III. Despite this family representing the greatest number of Australian species in trade, only one genus (of 7 traded) was included in the recent CITES amendments. Overall, a large number of Australian reptile and amphibian species are traded internationally and, although we acknowledge the value of Australia's recent CITES listing, we recommend the consideration of other taxa for similar inclusion in CITES.
Development of a core descriptor set for parastomal hernia repair
Authors: Blackwell Sue , Massey Lisa , Mehta Akash , Smart Neil , Sahnan Kapil , Lederhuber Hans , Lee Matthew J.
Published: September 2024

Aim

Parastomal hernia repair is a poorly evidenced area, with uncertainty around the optimum management. There is considerable heterogeneity within the patient cohort, and currently there is no standardization of patient descriptors in the reporting of parastomal hernia repair. The aim of this study was to develop a core descriptor set of key patient characteristics for patients undergoing surgical repair of a parastomal hernia for reporting in all parastomal hernia research.

Method

A longlist of descriptors was generated from a review of the existing literature. The longlist was discussed with patients with lived experience of parastomal hernia repair. Colorectal, general and hernia surgeons took part in a three‐round international modified Delphi process using a nine‐point Likert scale to rank the importance of descriptors. Items meeting predetermined thresholds were included in the final set and discussed and ratified at the consensus meeting.

Results

Seventy seven respondents completed round one, with 23 (29.8%) completing round three. Eighty six descriptors were rated across the three rounds, with 52 descriptors shortlisted. The consensus meeting ratified a final core descriptor set with 19 descriptors across eight domains: anatomy, contamination, disease, previous treatment, risk factors, symptoms, pathway and other hernia.

Conclusion

The core descriptor set reflects characteristics that are important to surgeons when reporting on parastomal hernia repair. The use of this agreed core descriptor set may aid the reporting of future studies.
Randomized, placebo‐controlled study on the effects of intravenous GSK3858279 (anti‐CCL17) on a battery of evoked pain tests in healthy participants
Authors: Boyle Yvonne , Hijma Hemme J. , Rees Jamie , Nijjar Jagtar , Panoilia Eirini , Alvarez Yolanda , Siederer Sarah , Greening Emma , Emery Edward , Abbott Banner Kathy , Groeneveld Geert Jan
Published: September 2024

C–C Motif Chemokine Ligand 17 (CCL17) is a chemokine that binds and signals through the G‐protein coupled CC‐chemokine receptor 4 and has been implicated in the development of inflammatory and arthritic pain. GSK3858279 is a high‐affinity, first‐in‐class, monoclonal antibody, binding specifically to CCL17 and inhibiting downstream signaling. In this phase I, randomized, single‐center, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, three‐period, incomplete‐block crossover study (NCT04114656), the analgesic effects and safety of intravenous GSK3858279 were assessed in a battery of evoked acute pain assessments on healthy, adult (aged ≥18 years), male participants. Participants were randomized 1:1 to receive either one placebo (0.9% w/v NaCl) dose followed by two GSK3858279 doses (PAA treatment sequence), or one GSK3858279 dose followed by two placebo doses (APP treatment sequence). The co‐primary end points were ultraviolet B heat pain detection threshold (°C), cold pressor time to pain tolerance threshold (PTT, sec), and electrical PTT (mA, single stimulus). Twenty‐one participants were enrolled (PAA = 11; APP = 10). Mean age (standard deviation) was 29.3 (7.9) years for PAA, 31.1 (7.7) years for APP. No significant differences were observed in the analgesic effect between GSK3858279 and placebo for any end point. Exposure to GSK3858279 was similar between Period 1 (APP sequence), and Periods 2 and 3 (PAA sequence), with some GSK3858279 carry‐over. Changes in serum CCL17 levels were consistent with the expected GSK3858279 activity. All drug‐related adverse events were mild in intensity and caused no discontinuations. The absence of an efficacy signal in this acute pain model does not preclude efficacy in chronic pain states.
Digital Active Learning Strategies in Blended Environments to Develop Students' Social and Emotional Learning Skills and Engagement in Higher Education
Authors: Mujallid Amjaad Tariq
Published: September 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has led to a shift towards online and blended learning; however, most students and faculty members still report more challenges in online courses regarding social interaction and engagement. This paper aimed to design an interactive blended course following Merrills' first principles of instruction model to develop students' social and emotional learning skills and engagement in higher education. A mixed‐method design, including questionnaires and interviews, was used with a sample population which consisted of 90 graduate students and divided into two groups, an experimental and a control group. The results showed that there were statistically significant differences between the experimental and control groups in‐terms of social–emotional learning skills and students' engagement due to the high perception of the experimental group. The findings also revealed that the most dominant social–emotional learning skills that appeared to be supported by applying these strategies from the students' point of view were self‐awareness and social awareness. The study also found that instructor presence, effective course design and appropriate use of technology significantly influenced students' engagement.
Creating insect neopolyploid lines to study animal polyploid evolution
Authors: Sivaprakasham Murugesan Saminathan , Beukeboom Leo W. , Verhulst Eveline C. , Leung Kelley
Published: September 2024

Whole‐genome duplication (polyploidy) poses many complications but is an important driver for eukaryotic evolution. To experimentally study how many challenges from the cellular (including gene expression) to the life history levels are overcome in polyploid evolution, a system in which polyploidy can be reliably induced and sustained over generations is crucial. Until now, this has not been possible with animals, as polyploidy notoriously causes first‐generation lethality. The parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis emerges as a stunningly well‐suited model. Polyploidy can be induced in this haplodiploid system through (1) silencing genes in the sex determination cascade and (2) by colchicine injection to induce meiotic segregation failure. Nasonia polyploids produce many generations in a short time, making them a powerful tool for experimental evolution studies. The strong variation observed in Nasonia polyploid phenotypes aids the identification of polyploid mechanisms that are the difference between evolutionary dead ends and successes. Polyploid evolution research benefits from decades of Nasonia research that produced extensive reference—omics data sets, facilitating the advanced studies of polyploid effects on the genome and transcriptome. It is also possible to create both inbred lines (to control for genetic background effects) and outbred lines (to conduct polyploid selection regimes). The option of interspecific crossing further allows to directly contrast autopolyploidy (intraspecific polyploidy) to allopolyploidy (hybrid polyploidy). Nasonia can also be used to investigate the nascent field of using polyploidy in biological control to improve field performance and lower ecological risk. In short, Nasonia polyploids are an exceptional tool for researching various biological paradigms.
Cystic echinococcosis due to Echinococcus equinus in a Swiss donkey
Authors: Piotrowski Isabelle L. , Fabian Rosalie , Ohlerth Stefanie M. , Grimm Felix , Wehrli Eser Meret E.
Published: September 2024

A 22‐year‐old donkey (Equus asinus) mare was presented for investigation of a 3‐day history of lethargy and anorexia. Serum biochemistry profile revealed severe increased liver‐derived enzymes. Abdominal ultrasound demonstrated several large round cysts in the liver. Broad‐spectrum antimicrobials and anti‐inflammatory therapy were started. However, exacerbation of the clinical signs occurred, and the donkey was euthanised. Necropsy and histopathological evaluation showed multiple hydatid cysts with protoscoleces from Echinocococcus spp. in the liver with replacement of parenchyma by fibrosis accompanied by liver atrophy, severe ascites and thorax effusion. The present report describes the first case of a molecularly confirmed Echinococcus equinus infection in a donkey in northern Switzerland.