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  • Integrating human and wildlife dynamics in co‐occurrence modelling

    Rolle, Francesca; Boiani, Maria V.; Fardone, Luca; Gaydou, Francesca; Macario, M.; Parentela, Filippo; Ruco, Valentina; Sigaudo, D.; Marucco, Francesca; University of Torino; University of Chester; Ente di Gestione delle Aree Protette delle Alpi Marittime (Wiley, 2025-02-17)
    In shared environments, where different species interact depending on overlapping resources, complex interspecific interactions emerge, with human activities impacting these dynamics and influencing wildlife abundance and distribution. In the Alps, the presence of multiple species of ungulates, such as roe deer and red deer, and a predator, the wolf, creates a web of spatial and behavioral interactions in an area where farming, hunting and tourism have persisted over time, with tourism recently experiencing a substantial growth. Accounting for these multiple interactions, we modelled the co‐occurrence probabilities of roe deer, red deer and wolves in an area of the Maritime Alps using data derived from 60 camera traps. We applied multi‐species occupancy models to investigate (i) the role of species co‐occurrences in explaining the occupancy of model species across the landscape, (ii) the role of human presence and activities on species occupancy and (iii) the potential effect of the hunting season on the species detection probabilities. Among the identified species, roe deer reported the highest frequency of recorded events and were the most widespread species. We provided important evidence of interspecific dependence, revealing that pairwise interactions among species had a greater impact than only considering individual environmental effects. We documented that the setting of cameras on trails increased the likelihood of detecting wolves but decreased the likelihood of detecting ungulates. Most importantly, the hunting season significantly reduced the likelihood of capturing roe deer, while having no effect on either red deer or wolves. Our results confirmed the relevance of including prey, predators, and human dynamics as a whole. Since the sharing of habitat makes human activities significantly important in defining predator–prey mechanisms, our insights are particularly relevant for defining solutions to optimize human‐wildlife coexistence, especially in a highly anthropogenic system such as Europe.
  • Isolation and characterisation of acid soluble collagens and pepsin soluble collagens from Eel (Anguilla japonica Temminck et Schlegel) skin and bone

    Zhang, Ningning; Guo, Shaoli; Zheng, Yuting; Li, Weili; University of Chester; Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University (MDPI, 2025-02-05)
    Eel (Anguilla japonica) is an important and valuable food fish in East Asia and its by-products have been reported to include bioactive and profitable components. This study aimed to extract, characterise, and compare the structure and properties of acid-soluble collagens (ASCs) and pepsin-soluble collagens (PSCs) from the skin and bone of eel (Anguilla japonica), providing insights into their composition, structure, and properties for various applications. The yields of ASC-S (from skin), PSC-S (from skin), ASC-B (from bone), and PSC-B (from bone) were 12.16%, 15.54%, 0.79%, and 1.34% on a dry weight basis, respectively. Glycine, the dominant amino acid, accounted for 16.66% to 22.67% of total amino acids in all samples. SDS-PAGE and FTIR analyses showed the typical triple-helical structure of type I collagen with slight variations in molecular order in extract and intermolecular cross-linking between skin and bone collagens. The denaturation temperature (Tmax1) measured by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) is 81.39 °C and 74.34 °C, respectively, for ASC-B and ASC-S. Bone collagen has higher thermal resistance than skin collagen. Surface morphology imaged using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) showed that the bone collagen had a denser network structure, whilst the skin collagen was more fibrous and porous. The findings suggest that eel-derived collagens from skin and bone can serve as potential alternatives in the food, cosmetic, and healthcare industries.
  • FTO rs17817449 variant increases the risk of severe obesity in a Brazilian cohort: A case-control study

    Salum, Kaio C. R.; da Silva Assis, Izadora Sthephanie; de Almeida Kopke, Úrsula; Palhinha, Lohanna; de Medeiros Abreu, Gabriella; Gouvêa, Laura W.; Teixeira, Myrela R.; Mattos, Fernanda C. C.; Nogueira Neto, José F.; de Freitas Martins Felício, Rafaela; et al. (Dove PressTaylor & Francis, 2025-01-31)
    PURPOSE: Obesity is a complex disease caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and epigenetic factors, and is associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases. The leptin-melanocortin pathway integrates peripheral signals about the body's energy stores with a central neuronal circuit in the hypothalamus. This pathway has been extensively studied over the years, as genetic variations in genes related to it may play a crucial role in determining an individual's susceptibility to obesity. Therefore, we analyzed the association between obesity and specific polymorphisms in leptin-melanocortin-related genes such as LEPR rs1137101, POMC rs1042571, LEP rs7799039, BDNF rs6265, FTO rs17817449, CART rs121909065, and NPY rs16147/rs5574. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study enrolled 501 participants from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, with obesity class II or greater (BMI ≥ 35 kg/m2) and normal weight controls (18.5≤ BMI ≤24.9 kg/m2). We collected demographic, body composition, biochemical, and genotyping data by real-time PCR, and performed logistic and linear regression analyses to investigate the association of polymorphisms with severe obesity status and obesity-related quantitative parameters. RESULTS: Individuals with severe obesity had significantly higher anthropometric measures, blood pressure, and biochemical levels. The FTO rs17817449 TT genotype was associated with a significantly higher risk of developing severe obesity, and distinct cytokine expression was observed across the FTO rs17817449 genotypes. The BDNF rs6265 dominant-model and NPY rs16147 CC genotypes were associated with triglyceride levels and childhood obesity, respectively. Finally, individuals with obesity were more likely to carry a greater number of risk alleles than those without obesity. CONCLUSION: Our study observed an important association between FTO rs17817449 polymorphism with obesity and obesity-related traits. Additionally, BDNF rs6265 dominant-model was associated with triglyceride serum levels, and NPY rs16147 may have a role in obesity onset.
  • Anti-inflammatory effects of Phyllanthus amarus extracts against Benzene-induced Leukemia in rats

    Anyiam, Arinze F.; Muhibi, Musa A.; Iyare, Godfrey I.; Omosigho, Pius O.; Olaniyan, Matthew F.; Obi, Ejeatuluchukwu; Arinze-Anyiam, Onyinye C.; Emmanuel, Fagbile O.; Rachel, Oyinloye O.; Obeagu, Emmanuel I.; et al. (Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, 2024-12-31)
    BACKGROUND: The present study examined the protective effects of extracts from Phyllanthus amarus on benzene-induced leukemia in Wistar rats. Benzene is a carcinogen linked to increased leukemia risk. OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to assess the impact of P. amarus extracts, prepared via different drying methods, on immunological, biochemical, and histopathological parameters. METHODS: Aqueous, methanolic, and ethanolic extracts were prepared from P. amarus using room drying, oven drying, and sun drying. The rats were treated with benzene and the extracts. For the immunological parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-8 (IL-8), transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and IL-10 were measured using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. For biochemical parameters, microalbumin, urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were assessed using spectrophotometry. At the same time, for histopathological examination, liver and bone marrow tissues were stained using hematoxylin and eosin and analyzed for morphological changes. RESULTS: Research findings showed no significant difference in CRP among the groups (P=0.197), indicating no significant inflammation or tissue damage. TGF-β levels were significantly lower in treatment groups compared to the positive control group (P=0.015), suggesting anti-inflammatory or immunosuppressive effects. No significant differences were found in IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-10 levels. The aqueous extract prepared by room drying significantly decreased microalbumin levels (P=0.016), representing potential protective effects on kidney function. The methanolic extract prepared by sun drying significantly reduced creatinine (P=0.032) and ALT (P=0.048) levels, implying beneficial effects on liver function. Histopathological examinations revealed that the extracts modulated bone marrow and liver morphologies, reducing inflammation while improving cellularity and morphology. CONCLUSION: P. amarus extracts demonstrated potential anti-inflammatory effects in benzene-induced leukemia by significantly reducing TGF-β levels without inducing inflammation, as evidenced by stable CRP, IL-8, and TNF-α levels. These findings suggest that the extracts may help mitigate inflammation associated with benzene exposure, highlighting their potential as adjunctive therapies in leukemia treatment. More studies are needed to understand these protective processes completely and investigate their clinical uses.
  • LinkedIn as a research participant recruitment tool: reflections from the football industry

    Griffiths, Jacob; Bloyce, Daniel; Law, Graeme; University Campus of Football Business Ltd, Manchester; University of Chester; York St John University (Emerald, 2025-02-04)
    PURPOSE: The article explores the process of using LinkedIn to recruit hard-to-reach groups, reflecting on our experience of the football industry. We propose LinkedIn as a viable option to mitigate recruitment challenges, particularly in employment-focussed research. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH: We examine how LinkedIn was used to recruit 43 football backroom staff for a sociological research study. It outlines the process of using LinkedIn to contact participants, the ethical considerations made throughout the research process and reflects on why LinkedIn was effective for a primarily employment-focussed study. FINDINGS: We discuss the importance of insider knowledge for identifying LinkedIn as a potentially fruitful recruitment tool and how the functionality of the platform can be beneficial for a targeted recruitment method. We also explore the ethical and practical considerations of using social media for recruitment. ORIGINALITY/VALUE: Previous research discusses social media as if they are indistinguishable and interchangeable with one another and we argue that this neglects the importance of a platform’s functionality. We discuss how the decision to use a particular social media platform to recruit should be grounded in the researcher’s familiarity with the site, the functionality the platform offers and the sample recruited. This article explicitly explores the considerations taken when using LinkedIn to help overcome recruitment challenges.
  • The double-bind of competitive funding: Exploring the consequences of state-funded bidding processes in a locally managed cycling infrastructure project

    White, Chris; Bloyce, Daniel; Thurston, Miranda; University of Chester; Inland Norway University of Applied Sciences (TU Delft OPEN Publishing, 2020-10-28)
    In an era of sustained budget cuts, England’s local authorities are increasingly forced to ‘apply’ for infrastructure funding via competitive bidding processes. However, we currently know little about how this method of funding impacts implementation. Accordingly, we consider the consequences of competitive funding by exploring the constraints associated with implementing infrastructure under the state-funded Cycling Demonstration Towns programme. This was achieved via a case study in Chester, a city that was unable to deliver the ambitions of their bid. This study was informed by figurational sociology in order to focus on relational processes. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with personnel involved in the planning and implementation of the project. The key findings were: (1) participants considered the bidding process to be akin to a ‘beauty contest’ where authorities were consciously making fantasy-laden promises in order to ‘impress’ the awards panel; (2) those involved in the bid did not consult key delivery parties, many of whom held car-centric predispositions, until funding was secured, and this led to complications in the delivery process; (3) during project implementation as the chains of interdependency of those involved widened, several unintended outcomes emerged which contributed to the two ‘flagship’ infrastructure proposals being halted; (4) this led to an intervention package that was heavily weighted towards promotional, or ‘soft’, interventions. Theoretical insight from this study suggests that competitive funding is likely to encourage authorities to present bids that are largely detached from the realities of implementing infrastructure, thus leading to difficulties once funding has been awarded.
  • Elasmobranchs and the Inshore Reefs of Southern Mozambique

    Oliver, Simon; Murie, Calum James George (University of Chester, 2024-04)
    The coastal waters off southern Mozambique host a diverse community of elasmobranchs. The complexity of studying sharks and rays in remote locations means that limited research attention focusses on its marine environment. As the region is famed for its coastal reefs and the diversity of its elasmobranch species, a novel opportunity was presented to study elasmobranch species that have become rare in most other regions. This thesis aims to investigate the relationship between elasmobranch species and coastal reef habitat in southern Mozambique. This aim is addressed by investigating the frequency with which elasmobranch species visit reef systems and by comparing this with the environmental and biological conditions on the reefs. A reef camera trap was deployed 60 times on four reefs to record elasmobranch visits and to estimate the relative abundance of each reef’s fish and coral communities. SCUBA-based transects (n = 738) were conducted on 18 reefs in the same region to count elasmobranchs and measure environmental parameters that influence the presence of elasmobranchs on the reefs. Two large Carcharhinus sharks were observed in low numbers during video and SCUBA observations. To monitor their interactions with regional reefs, 18 acoustic tags were fitted to Carcharhinus limbatus and Carcharhinus leucas individuals. The sharks were tracked on 13 omnidirectional acoustic receivers positioned on reefs throughout the Inhambane province of southern Mozambique. The community composition of reef fishes appeared to influence the species of elasmobranch that frequented each survey area. Sharks visited reefs with the most abundant piscivorous fish life, which we determined to be linked to foraging opportunities. Small-bodied stingrays were only observed visiting shallow reefs near intertidal sand flats. Pelagic rays (e.g. Mobula spp.) were most often observed while cleaning on reefs that were proximate to their foraging grounds.Elasmobranch abundance on reefs was found to vary across several spatiotemporal and environmental parameters, resulting in patterns of reef use across various temporal scales. Most elasmobranch species became abundant on reefs during the summer, and tide, water temperature, and moon illumination were found to be strong predictors of their presence and abundance. Closely related species were similar in their responses to the measured environmental and spatiotemporal parameters and these species visited the same reefs with specific biological characteristics. Reducing pressures on the reefs that elasmobranch species rely on, and eliminating the extraction of elasmobranchs around these reefs, could benefit the populations of vulnerable elasmobranchs off the coast of southern Mozambique.
  • SP3 protocol optimised for foodcrust protein extraction from archaeological cooking vessels

    Harvey, Virginia L; Hendy, Jessica; University of Chester; University of York (Springer Nature, 2025-01-30)
    A SP3-based protocol developed for the extraction of proteins from charred organic residues (foodcrust) found on cooking vessels. This protocol is to prepare samples for MALDI-ToF MS and LC-MS/MS analysis. We recommend starting with a batch size of 2-10 samples, and including flanking negative controls (blanks) to test for any downstream contamination.
  • Validating the underpinnings of water corticosterone measurement for aquatic amphibians

    Smith, Tessa E; Holmes, Andrew M; Emmans, Christopher J; Coleman, Robert; Hosie, Charlotte A; University of Chester (Taylor and Francis, 2025-01-09)
    BACKGROUND: Good animal welfare is important ethically but also to ensure animals provide valid scientific models. Despite thousands of amphibians in research laboratories there is minimal quantitative evidence pertaining to their management and welfare. This study validated methods to non-invasively measure corticosterone, the amphibian ‘stress’ hormone, from tank water to provide a robust and reliable welfare assessment tool. METHODS: We report experiments (A) that evaluate parameters linked to the performance of our biochemical extraction methods for waterborne corticosterone and, importantly, associated sampling procedures. We evaluate appropriate sampling water type, sampling vessel, filtration methods, potential degradation of waterborne corticosterone over time and the impact of sampling procedures on animal corticosterone levels. We wanted to determine sampling parameters that yielded the least background corticosterone and had minimum negative impact on the animals. The second series of experiments (B) evaluated parameters linked to the biology of Xenopus, including the influence of circadian rhythm, sex and snout-vent length on waterborne corticosterone levels, since fundamental knowledge of a species’ biology is essential for designing robust experiments and in the interpretation of the results. RESULTS: We propose collecting corticosterone samples in deionised water in either plastic or glass containers. The filtering process does not impact the amount of corticosterone measured in the water sample. Levels of corticosterone collected in the water change over a 48-hr period so we advocate standardising time from hormone collection to storage at - 20 °C. Repeated transfer of frogs to sampling containers does not increase corticosterone, suggesting our methods are not cumulatively stressful. Corticosterone levels were not impacted by circadian phase, sex or snout-vent length. CONCLUSION: We have developed and validated robust methods to quantify waterborne corticosterone. We hope they provide a template for researchers wishing to develop methods to measure waterborne corticosterone in aquatic amphibians.
  • Pain in mammals: physiology, management and assessment

    McLennan, Krista; Chapman, Stella; University of Chester; Cambridge University (Elsevier, 2024-12-27)
    Pain is a sensory and emotional experience that has significant consequences on an animal’s welfare. To improve animal welfare, there is a need to prevent as well as manage pain, but we cannot manage what we cannot measure. In this chapter we highlight pains complexity, with the experience affected by multiple factors, including age, sex, personality and previous experience and remains a critical issue in veterinary care. We provide details on the physiological mechanism of pain and show how with this knowledge we can provide appropriate treatment to manage pain effectively. We acknowledge that many animals are however still experiencing pain. Even with the acceptance of animal sentience, recognizing, assessing and evaluating pain in animals is difficult. We briefly detail physiological indicators of pain such as heart rate and cortisol but acknowledge that there are difficulties in their use within veterinary clinics, for example. Behavioral indicators of pain can range from change in eating behavior to aggression. We discuss that there are many tools currently available to identify and assess pain, but that many require extensive training, are time consuming to carry out, and tend to measure the long-term impact on general biological functioning rather than pain per se. We highlight the more recent increase of the use of facial expression scales as an alternate tool that can accurately recognize and assess pain in a variety of species and can indicate what an animal is feeling at that moment in time. We also briefly touch on the use of technology such as Artificial Intelligence and Computer Vision as a novel tool to assess pain, providing a much more objective assessment. There is an urgent need for tools that can effectively and directly detect and measure pain in animals and further research in the use of computer-based modelling will be key for the future.
  • A standardised comparison of chest and percutaneous drainage catheters to evaluate the applicability of the ‘French’ sizing units

    Daga, Karan; Milward, Graham D.; Pintos dos Santos, Daniel; Edwards, Derek W.; Laasch, Hans-Ulrich; Guy’s and St. Thomas’ Hospital; Minnova Medical Foundation; University Köln; University of Chester (Nature Research, 2025-01-10)
    A variety of medical specialities undertake percutaneous drainage but understanding of device performance outside radiology is often limited. Furthermore, the current catheter sizing using the “French” measurement of outer diameter is unhelpful; it does not reflect the internal diameter and gives no information on flow rate. To illustrate this and to improve catheter selection, notably for chest drainage, we assessed the variation of drain performance under standardised conditions. Internal diameter and flow rates of 6Fr.-12Fr. drainage catheters from 8 manufacturers were tested to ISO 10555-1 standard: Internal diameters were measured with Meyer calibrated pin-gauges. Flow rates were calculated over a period of 30s after achieving steady state. Evaluation demonstrated a wide range of internal diameters for the 6Fr., 8Fr., 10Fr. and 12Fr. catheters. Mean measurements were 1.49 mm (SD:0.07), 1.90 mm (SD:0.10), 2.43 mm (SD:0.11) and 2.64 mm (SD:0.03) respectively. Mean flow rates were 128 mL/min (SD:37.6), 207 mL/min (SD: 55.1), 291 mL/min (SD:36.7) and 303 mL/min (SD:20.2) respectively. There was such variance that there was overlap between catheters of different size: thin-walled 10Fr. drains performed better than 12Fr. “Seldinger” chest drains. Better understanding of drain characteristics and better declaration of performance data by manufacturers are required to allow optimum drain choice for individual patients and optimum outcomes.
  • Early years practitioners' and public health consultants' perspectives on the use of interactive electronic devices in young children: A qualitative study

    Azevedo, Liane B.; Downes, Megan; Eastburn, Sara; Covell, Jane; Bissell, Paul; Sheffield Hallam University; University of Huddersfield; Kirklees Council; University of Chester (Wiley, 2025-01-12)
    Background: Interactive electronic devices (IEDs) are ubiquitous in young children's lives. However, research on their impact on learning and development is still limited. The aim of this study was to understand the perspectives of early years practitioners (EYPs) and public health consultants (PHCs) on the use of IEDs in children aged 3–5. Methods: Using purposive sampling techniques, we recruited four EYPs and two PHCs from children's nurseries and a government organisation in the northwest of England. Semi‐structured interviews were used to collect data, which were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim and anonymised. Data were analysed using reflective thematic analysis. Results: EYPs and PHCs noted that although IEDs could negatively impact child development and behaviour, they could also aid in learning. EYPs expressed concerns about the impact of parents' own IED habits on children's communication and social skills. On the other hand, PHCs stressed that substituting outdoor play with the use of these devices could affect children's social and physical skills and reduce physical activity levels, which are crucial for development. Finally, both EYPs and PHCs agreed that there was a need to improve parents' and EYP's knowledge and to develop interactive interventions to promote an understanding of how IEDs should be used with young children. Conclusion: EYPs and PHCs acknowledge the potential advantages of using IEDs as a teaching tool for children. However, they have concerns about the long‐term effects on communication, social and physical skills and how children are impacted by their parents' use of these devices. To support policy statements, future research should offer further evidence of the benefits and harms of IED use.
  • An examination of interspecific competition using observations in behaviour and physiology: A case study of Guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and domestic sheep (Ovis aries) in Chilean Patagonia

    Smith, Tessa; Geary, Matt; McLennan, Krista; Lancaster, Alex T. (University of Chester, 2024-02)
    The introduction of a new species to ecosystems can result in competition between native species and the introduced, with adaptations that may allow coexistence, through resource facilitation or partitioning, unable to evolve, given the short co-evolutionary time period. Consequently, in cases where livestock species have been introduced to a new system, competitive interactions between native and domestic species have been directly instigated, with interspecific competition between sympatric, free living ungulates and domestic livestock becoming an increasing concern for conservationists. Understanding the specific ways and mechanisms in which this competition manifests is critical for informing conservation management, both of wild species, and domestic livestock. Throughout this thesis, I examine the case study of wild guanaco (Lama guanicoe) and domestic sheep (Ovis aries), in the Patagonian Steppe ecosystem of Southern Chile, a system in which competition has been demonstrated as highly probable. Two key elements in guanaco-sheep competition were investigated, to determine whether competitive effects manifest in (1) foraging behaviour, by examining the effects of sheep presence on the behavioural changes in guanaco, and (2) physiology, by examining the effects of sheep presence on guanaco separately for cortisol and testosterone. (1) Guanaco bite rates generally increased with vegetation biomass availability. However, when sheep were present in high densities, the pattern reversed, with guanaco bite rates decreasing with vegetation abundance. Additionally, the probability of guanaco feeding occurring at any one time was shown to be higher in areas shared with domestic sheep than in national parks, where sheep are absent. Both results suggest guanaco prioritise feeding behaviours at the expense of other behaviours, where sheep are present. (2) Sheep presence did not predict either the cortisol or testosterone profiles of guanaco. Instead, cortisol concentrations were influenced by the group number and composition (number of adults and juveniles). Conversely, testosterone content was influenced mainly by the specific Age-Sex Class (social group) of the individual.
  • Essential information about nanotechnology in cardiology

    Elendu, Chukwuka; Amaechi, Dependable C.; Elendu, Tochi C.; Amaechi, Emmanuel C.; Elendu, Ijeoma D.; Omeludike, Janet C.; Omeludike, Eunice K.; Onubogu, Nwamaka C.; Ogelle, Emmanuel C.; Meduoye, Oluwatobi O. M.; et al. (Wolters Kluwer Health, 2024-12-19)
    Cardiology, as a medical specialty, addresses cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), a leading cause of global mortality. Nanomaterials offer transformative potential across key areas such as drug delivery, stem cell therapy, imaging, and gene delivery. Nanomaterials improve solubility, bioavailability, and targeted delivery in drug delivery, reducing systemic side effects. Examples include gas microbubbles, liposomal preparations, and paramagnetic nanoparticles, which show promise in treating atherosclerosis. Stem cell therapy benefits from nanotechnology through enhanced cell culture conditions and three-dimensional scaffolds that support cardiomyocyte growth and survival. Gold nanoparticles and PLGA-derived microparticles further improve stem cell viability. In imaging, nanomaterials enable advanced visualization techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with direct labeling and optical tracking via dye-conjugated nanoparticles. In gene delivery, polymeric nanocarriers like polyethyleneimine, dendrimers, and graphene-based materials offer efficient, non-viral alternatives, with magnetic nanoparticles showing promise in targeted applications. Ongoing research highlights the potential of nanomaterials to revolutionize CVD management by improving therapeutic outcomes and enabling precision medicine. These advancements position nanotechnology as a cornerstone of modern cardiology.
  • In vitro erythropoiesis: The emerging potential of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)

    Chukwuemeka, Chidera G.; Ndubueze, Chizaram W.; Kolawole, Adeola V.; Joseph, Joshua N.; Oladipo, Ifeoluwa H.; Ofoezie, Ezichi F.; Annor-Yeboah, Samuel A.; Bello, Abdur-Rahman Eneye; Ganiyu, Sodiq O.; University of Chester; Massey University; AgResearch Limited; Confluence University of Science and Technology (Wolters Kluwer Health, 2024-12-26)
    Due to global blood shortages and restricted donor blood storage, the focus has switched to the in vitro synthesis of red blood cells (RBCs) from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) as a potential solution. Many processes are required to synthesize RBCs from iPSCs, including the production of iPSCs from human or animal cells, differentiation of iPSCs into hematopoietic stem cells, culturing, and maturation of the hematopoietic stem cells (HSC) to make functional erythrocytes. Previous investigations on the in vitro production of erythrocytes have shown conflicting results. Some studies have demonstrated substantial yields of functional erythrocytes, whereas others have observed low yields of enucleated cells. Before large-scale in vitro RBC production can be achieved, several challenges which have limited its application in the clinic must be overcome. These issues include optimizing differentiation techniques to manufacture vast amounts of functional RBCs, upscaling the manufacturing process, cost-effectiveness, and assuring the production of RBCs with good manufacturing practices (GMP) before they can be used for therapeutic purposes.
  • A new double observer‐based census framework to improve abundance estimations in mountain ungulates and other gregarious species with a reduced effort

    Panaccio, Matteo; Brambilla, Alice; Bassano, Bruno; Smith, Tessa; von Hardenberg, Achaz; University of Chester; Alpine Wildlife Research Centre, Gran Paradiso National Park; University of Zurich; University of Pavia (WileyBritish Ecological Society, 2024-12-17)
    Estimating animal abundance has a key role to play in ecology and conservation, but survey methods are always challenged by imperfect detection. Among the techniques applied to deal with this issue, Double Observer (DO) is increasing in popularity due to its cost‐effectiveness. However, the effort of using DO for surveying large territories can be significant. A DO‐based survey method that allows accurate abundance estimations with reduced effort would increase the applicability of the method. This would have positive effects on the conservation of species which are challenging to survey such as mountain ungulates. We used computer simulations based on real data and a field test to assess the reliability of the DO and of a new proposed survey procedure, the Double Observer Adjusted Survey (DOAS). DOAS is based on total block counts adjusted with some DO surveys conducted in a proportion of the total area only. Such DO surveys are then used to estimate detection probability with a mark‐recapture‐derived approach. We found that full DO is much more accurate than simple block counts for abundance estimations. DOAS is a less demanding alternative to full DO and can produce comparable abundance estimates, at the cost of a slightly lower precision. However, in the DOAS overall detectability has to be estimated within a sufficient number of sites (around a quarter of the total) to obtain a higher precision and avoid large overestimations. Practical implications. DO methods could increase the reliability of abundance estimations in mountain ungulates and other gregarious species. Full DO in particular could allow researchers to obtain unbiased estimations with high precision and its usage is therefore suggested instead of block counts in wildlife monitoring. Given the high costs of full DO, the DOAS procedure could be a viable and cost‐effective survey strategy to improve abundance estimates when resources are scarce.
  • Brief observation of symptoms of autism (BOSA): an alternative or replacement to autism diagnostic observation schedule (ADOS)

    Kour, Sanjeet; Wee, Chris; Jones, Steven; Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board; Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust; University of Chester (Mental Health Nurses Association, 2024-12-15)
    The COVID-19 pandemic has led to significant changes in many areas
of healthcare, such as a shift to telehealth models. This has created challenges for families with children awaiting autistic spectrum disorder evaluations. The Brief Observation of Symptoms of Autism (BOSA) was developed as a novel method to ensure that service users referred to services could still take part in structured observations during autism assessments in the pandemic. A service user was offered a BOSA when a clinician could not administer the Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule–Second Edition (ADOS-2) due to COVID-19 precautions. The designers of the ADOS-2 felt that it was not designed to be used for video assessments and that its sensitivity would be significantly affected in face-to-face assessments with face covers. This paper aims to highlight some advantages and disadvantages of BOSA. Four cases were studied in a BOSA clinic, half of whom met the threshold of autism spectrum disorder based on scoring of ADOS-2 after BOSA assessment. It was found that BOSA, just like ADOS-2, allows health professionals to observe indicators of autism reliably while maintaining social distance. It is a time-efficient measure, as unlike ADOS-2, which takes about 45 minutes to be administered, it takes much less time (around 15 minutes). While the sample size is low, the issues identified may be taken forward in future studies.
  • Maternal obesity and metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease in pregnancy: a comprehensive narrative review

    Leca, Bianca M.; Lagojda, Lukasz; Kite, Chris; Karteris, Emmanouil; Kassi, Eva; Randeva, Harpal S.; Kyrou, Ioannis; University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust; University of Warwick; University of Wolverhampton; Coventry University; University of Chester; Brunel University London; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens; Aston University; University of Derby; Agricultural University of Athens (Taylor & Francis, 2024-06-11)
    Introduction: Obesity and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) during pregnancy constitute significant problems for routine antenatal care, with increasing prevalence globally. Similar to obesity, MAFLD is associated with a higher risk for maternal complications (e.g. pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes) and long-term adverse health outcomes for the offspring. However, MAFLD during pregnancy is often under-recognized, with limited management/treatment options. Areas covered: PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus were searched based on a search strategy for obesity and/or MAFLD in pregnancy to identify relevant papers up to 2024. This review summarizes the pertinent evidence on the relationship between maternal obesity and MAFLD during pregnancy. Key mechanisms implicated in the underlying pathophysiology linking obesity and MAFLD during pregnancy (e.g. insulin resistance and dysregulated adipokine secretion) are highlighted. Moreover, a diagnostic approach for MAFLD diagnosis during pregnancy and its complications are presented. Finally, promising relevant areas for future research are covered. Expert opinion: Research progress regarding maternal obesity, MAFLD, and their impact on maternal and fetal/offspring health is expected to improve the relevant diagnostic methods and lead to novel treatments. Thus, routine practice could apply more personalized management strategies, incorporating individualized algorithms with genetic and/or multi-biomarker profiling to guide prevention, early diagnosis, and treatment.
  • The thermal physiology of Lysathia sp. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a biocontrol agent of parrot’s feather in South Africa, supports its success

    Goddard, Matthew; Owen, Candice A.; Martin, Grant; Coetzee, Julie A.; Rhodes University; University of the Free State; University of Chester (Taylor & Francis, 2022-03-25)
    The establishment success of biocontrol agents originating from tropical regions is often limited by climate when introduced in temperate regions. However, the flea beetle, Lysathia sp. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a biocontrol agent of Myriophyllum aquaticum (Vell.) Verdc. (Haloragaceae) in South Africa, is an effective agent in regions where other biocontrol agents of tropical aquatic weeds have failed due to winter-induced mortality. The development (degree-day model) and thermal tolerance (critical thermal minimum/maximum [CTmin/max] and lower/upper lethal limits [LLT/ULT50]) of Lysathia sp. were investigated to explain this success. The model predicted that Lysathia sp. could complete 6 to 12 generations per year in the colder regions of the country. The lower threshold for development (t0) was 13.0 °C and thermal constant (K) was 222.4 days, which is considerably lower than the K values of other biocontrol agents of aquatic weeds in South Africa. This suggests that above the temperature threshold, Lysathia sp. can develop faster than those other species and complete multiple life cycles in the cooler winter months, allowing for rapid population growth and thus improving M. aquaticum control. Furthermore, the CTmin of Lysathia sp. was 2.3 ± 0.2 °C and the CTmax was 49.0 ± 0.5 °C. The LLT50 was calculated as ∼ −7.0 °C and the ULT50 as ∼ 43.0 °C. These wide tolerance ranges and survival below freezing show why Lysathia sp. has established at cool sites and suggest that it may be a suitable agent for other cold countries invaded by M. aquaticum.
  • Advances in preparation of acellular human dermis for tissue banking and transplantation

    Stern, Irit; Barrera, Valentina; Randles, Michael; Rooney, Paul; NHS Blood and Transplant; University of Chester (Springer, 2024-12-10)
    Non-healing wounds cost the National Health Service over £5.6 billion annually in wound management. Skin allografts are used to treat non-healing wounds, ulcers and burns, offering the best protection against infection. In order to allow host cells to repopulate and to avoid immunogenicity, cell components are removed through decellularisation. Decellularisation of human dermis has so far been performed in NHS Blood and Transplant using a combination of two enzymes (RNase T1 and the recombinant human DNase Pulmozyme)®. This study aims at validating a new method to remove DNA from donated dermis via the use of a single enzyme, Benzonase, known for its effectiveness of DNA digestion. Skin samples were decellularised by removing the epidermis, lysing of dermal cells, removal of cellular fragments by a detergent wash and removal of nucleic acids by a nuclease incubation with either Benzonase or Pulmozyme + RNase T1. DNA quantification with PicoGreen, as well as histology on wax-embedded biopsies, stained with DAPI and haemotoxylin and eosin, were performed. In vitro toxicity test on human osteosarcoma immortalised cells and skin fibroblasts, and biomechanical (tensile) testing, were also performed. The effectiveness of DNA digestion with the new methodology was comparable to previous procedure. Mean DNA removal percentage following decellularisation with Pulmozyme + RNase was 99.9% (3.83 ng/mg). Mean DNA removal percentage with Benzonase was 99.8% (9.97 ng/mg). Histology staining showed complete decellularisation following either method. Benzonase was proven to be non-toxic to both cell lines used, and a one-way Anova test showed no significant difference in neither stress nor strain between acellular dermal matrix decellularised with either Benzonase or Pulmozyme + RNase T1. Benzonase was able to effectively decellularise dermis after prior removal of epidermis. It performed just as well as the combination of Pulmozyme + RNase T1, but represents significant advantages in terms of cost effectiveness, procurement and storage; Benzonase has been successfully used in the decellularisation of other tissues, thus would be better for Tissue Banking use. Switching to this combined DNase/RNase can have far-reaching consequences in the production of acellular human dermal matrix by NHSBT and in the treatment of patients requiring it.

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