Cadmium, zinc and iron interactions in the tissues of bank vole Clethrionomys glareolus after exposure to low and high doses of cadmium chloride

In present study, bank voles Clethrionomys glareolus were peritioneally injected with different doses of cadmium, 0, 1.5, 3.0 mg Cd/kg body mass. Animals were sacrificed on the 21st day after cadmium exposure and the liver and kidney were obtained for cadmium, zinc and iron analysis using atomic absorption spectrometry. Results showed that cadmium had accumulated in the tissues according to dosage and sex. Cadmium affected the survival and body masses of dosed females. Cadmium decreased the iron concentrations in the liver of voles, whereas zinc concentrations increased in both the kidney and liver

Open Science principles for accelerating trait-based science across the Tree of Life

Synthesizing trait observations and knowledge across the Tree of Life remains a grand challenge for biodiversity science. Species traits are widely used in ecological and evolutionary science, and new data and methods have proliferated rapidly. Yet accessing and integrating disparate data sources remains a considerable challenge, slowing progress toward a global synthesis to integrate trait data across organisms. Trait science needs a vision for achieving global integration across all organisms. Here, we outline how the adoption of key Open Science principles-open data, open source and open methods-is transforming trait science, increasing transparency, democratizing access and accelerating global synthesis. To enhance widespread adoption of these principles, we introduce the Open Traits Network (OTN), a global, decentralized community welcoming all researchers and institutions pursuing the collaborative goal of standardizing and integrating trait data across organisms. We demonstrate how adherence to Open Science principles is key to the OTN community and outline five activities that can accelerate the synthesis of trait data across the Tree of Life, thereby facilitating rapid advances to address scientific inquiries and environmental issues. Lessons learned along the path to a global synthesis of trait data will provide a framework for addressing similarly complex data science and informatics challenges

Chemo Brain': Research findings indicate the need for caution

The article sets insights provided by haematology patients who have been through chemotherapy treatments on their attitudes, beliefs and experiences with regards to the notion of ‘chemo brain’ within the context of the available research literature on the topic. The qualitative methodology for the study involved open-ended exploration through in-depth interviews and a focus group. The data was audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, coded and thematically analysed. The findings highlight the need for caution with regards to asserting the conclusiveness of the notion of ‘chemo brain’ to haematology patients. This conclusion is reinforced by the evidence of confusion, inconclusiveness and lack of understanding of both the concept and causation presently noted in the literature. Honesty in information giving about the present doubts and inconsistencies with regards the notion of ‘chemo brain’ that are recognised in the literature can ensure that the term does not unnecessarily increase the anxieties of patients. Such informed discussion can be accompanied by a compassionate response to those experiencing cognitive difficulties that affirms, normalises and provides referrals to expert psychological assistance

Returning to work after treatment for haematological cancer : findings from Australia

Purpose: Despite the personal and economic importance of the issue of returning to work after cancer treatment, there are major limitations in the research literature on the topic. Indeed, in relation to the focus of the present article, the experience of return to work for Australian haematology patients, there is little research available.Methods The return-to-work findings are a sub-set from a study examining survivorship issues conducted through indepth, qualitative interviews with a state-wide sample (n=50) of individuals who were at least 1 year post-treatment for haematological malignancy.Results: There were three groups identified in relation to employment: (1) those who were retired and work was not an issue, (2) those who had successfully re-entered the workforce and (3) those who wanted to work but were finding the process of return-to-work difficult. It is the third group that is the major focus for this paper.Conclusions: The clear indications are that group 3 requiresassistance with return-to-work and were vulnerable to a range of psychosocial distress caused by inability to return to employment. Supportive care strategies to assist return to employment are provided.Relevance of manuscript to inform research, policies and/or programs: Current improvements in cancer treatments have not only increased the number of cancer survivors but also peoples’ ability to work during and following treatment. Maximising opportunities for cancer patients to return to work is a significant concern not only for individuals and employers but also economically for society. The findingsreported in this article explored the individual story of arange of individuals with haematological malignancies in relation to their desire and efforts to return to work. Importantly, the findings not only provide insights on the work re-entry challenges faced by such individuals but also posit supportive care service delivery solutions to assist those who are vulnerable and frustrated in their efforts to find employment