Climate change, public health, and animal welfare: towards a One Health approach to reducing animal agriculture’s climate footprint

Animal agriculture contributes significantly to global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions—an estimated 12%-20% of total anthropogenic emissions. This has led both governmental and private actors to propose various ways to mitigate those climate impacts. This paper applies a One Health lens to the issue, arguing that the choice of solutions should not only consider the potential to reduce GHG emissions—which is not always a given—but also the implications for public health and animal welfare. With this perspective, we examine the potential public health and animal welfare impacts of three types of strategies that are often proposed: (1) “sustainable intensification” methods, aimed at maintaining or increasing production while limiting emissions and avoiding further land conversion; (2) “species shift” approaches, which focus on changing diets to consume meat from animals produced with lower GHG emissions instead of that of animals associated with higher emissions; and (3) “systemic dietary change” approaches that promote shifts towards whole plant-based foods or novel alternatives to conventional animal products. We discuss how some approaches—particularly those associated with sustainable intensification and species shift—could introduce new and significant risks to public health and animal welfare. Promoting systemic dietary change helps to overcome some of these challenges, but requires careful attention to equity to ensure that vulnerable populations still have access to the nutrients they need. We end with recommendations for a more holistic approach to reducing emissions from farmed animals that can help avoid trade-offs and increase synergies with other societal goals

Surviving rectal cancer at the cost of a colostomy: global survey of long-term health-related quality of life in 10 countries

Background Colorectal cancer management may require an ostomy formation; however, a stoma may negatively impact health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This study aimed to compare generic and stoma-specific HRQoL in patients with a permanent colostomy after rectal cancer across different countries. Method A cross-sectional cohorts of patients with a colostomy after rectal cancer in Denmark, Sweden, Spain, the Netherlands, China, Portugal, Australia, Lithuania, Egypt, and Israel were invited to complete questionnaires regarding demographic and socioeconomic factors along with the Colostomy Impact (CI) score, European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) Quality of Life Questionnaire (QLQ-C30) and five anchor questions assessing colostomy impact on HRQoL. The background characteristics of the cohorts from each country were compared and generic HRQoL was measured with the EORTC QLQ-C30 presented for the total cohort. Results were compared with normative data of reference European populations. The predictors of reduced HRQoL were investigated by multivariable logistic regression, including demographic and socioeconomic factors and stoma-related problems. Results A total of 2557 patients were included. Response rates varied between 51-93 per cent. Mean time from stoma creation was 2.5-6.2 (range 1.1-39.2) years. A total of 25.8 per cent of patients reported that their colostomy impairs their HRQoL 'some'/'a lot'. This group had significantly unfavourable scores across all EORTC subscales compared with patients reporting 'no'/'a little' impaired HRQoL. Generic HRQoL differed significantly between countries, but resembled the HRQoL of reference populations. Multivariable logistic regression showed that stoma dysfunction, including high CI score (OR 3.32), financial burden from the stoma (OR 1.98), unemployment (OR 2.74), being single/widowed (OR 1.35) and young age (OR 1.01 per year) predicted reduced stoma-related HRQoL. Conclusion Overall HRQoL is preserved in patients with a colostomy after rectal cancer, but a quarter of the patients interviewed reported impaired HRQoL. Differences among several countries were reported and socioeconomic factors correlated with reduced quality of life. In this global survey among 2557 individuals with a colostomy after rectal cancer, generic and stoma-specific HRQoL differed significantly between countries; however, it resembled that of country-specific population norms. The most important predictors of stoma-related reduced HRQoL were stoma dysfunction and being financially burdened by the colostomy

The pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents: A systematic review with network meta-analyses of randomised trials

BACKGROUND: Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed psychiatric disorders in childhood. A wide variety of treatments have been used for the management of ADHD. We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of pharmacological, psychological and complementary and alternative medicine interventions for the treatment of ADHD in children and adolescents. METHODS AND FINDINGS: We performed a systematic review with network meta-analyses. Randomised controlled trials (≥ 3 weeks follow-up) were identified from published and unpublished sources through searches in PubMed and the Cochrane Library (up to April 7, 2016). Interventions of interest were pharmacological (stimulants, non-stimulants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other unlicensed drugs), psychological (behavioural, cognitive training and neurofeedback) and complementary and alternative medicine (dietary therapy, fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, herbal therapy, homeopathy, and physical activity). The primary outcomes were efficacy (treatment response) and acceptability (all-cause discontinuation). Secondary outcomes included discontinuation due to adverse events (tolerability), as well as serious adverse events and specific adverse events. Random-effects Bayesian network meta-analyses were conducted to obtain estimates as odds ratios (ORs) with 95% credibility intervals. We analysed interventions by class and individually. 190 randomised trials (52 different interventions grouped in 32 therapeutic classes) that enrolled 26114 participants with ADHD were included in complex networks. At the class level, behavioural therapy (alone or in combination with stimulants), stimulants, and non-stimulant seemed significantly more efficacious than placebo. Behavioural therapy in combination with stimulants seemed superior to stimulants or non-stimulants. Stimulants seemed superior to behavioural therapy, cognitive training and non-stimulants. Behavioural therapy, stimulants and their combination showed the best profile of acceptability. Stimulants and non-stimulants seemed well tolerated. Among medications, methylphenidate, amphetamine, atomoxetine, guanfacine and clonidine seemed significantly more efficacious than placebo. Methylphenidate and amphetamine seemed more efficacious than atomoxetine and guanfacine. Methylphenidate and clonidine seemed better accepted than placebo and atomoxetine. Most of the efficacious pharmacological treatments were associated with harms (anorexia, weight loss and insomnia), but an increased risk of serious adverse events was not observed. There is lack of evidence for cognitive training, neurofeedback, antidepressants, antipsychotics, dietary therapy, fatty acids, and other complementary and alternative medicine. Overall findings were limited by the clinical and methodological heterogeneity, small sample sizes of trials, short-term follow-up, and the absence of high-quality evidence; consequently, results should be interpreted with caution. CONCLUSIONS: Clinical differences may exist between the pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment used for the management of ADHD. Uncertainties about therapies and the balance between benefits, costs and potential harms should be considered before starting treatment. There is an urgent need for high-quality randomised trials of the multiple treatments for ADHD in children and adolescents. PROSPERO, number CRD42014015008

Nutrition and the ageing brain: moving towards clinical applications

The global increases in life expectancy and population have resulted in a growing ageing population and with it a growing number of people living with age-related neurodegenerative conditions and dementia, shifting focus towards methods of prevention, with lifestyle approaches such as nutrition representing a promising avenue for further development. This overview summarises the main themes discussed during the 3 Symposium on "Nutrition for the Ageing Brain: Moving Towards Clinical Applications" held in Madrid in August 2018, enlarged with the current state of knowledge on how nutrition influences healthy ageing and gives recommendations regarding how the critical field of nutrition and neurodegeneration research should move forward into the future. Specific nutrients are discussed as well as the impact of multi-nutrient and whole diet approaches, showing particular promise to combatting the growing burden of age-related cognitive decline. The emergence of new avenues for exploring the role of diet in healthy ageing, such as the impact of the gut microbiome and development of new techniques (imaging measures of brain metabolism, metabolomics, biomarkers) are enabling researchers to approach finding answers to these questions. But the translation of these findings into clinical and public health contexts remains an obstacle due to significant shortcomings in nutrition research or pressure on the scientific community to communicate recommendations to the general public in a convincing and accessible way. Some promising programs exist but further investigation to improve our understanding of the mechanisms by which nutrition can improve brain health across the human lifespan is still required

An assessment of the adoption of seed and fertilizer packages and the role of credit in smallholder maize production in Kakamega and Vihiga Districts, Kenya [1998]

This study documents maize farmers' practices in Vihiga and Kakamega Districts of Kenya, which account for one-third of the maize area in the mandate region of the Regional Research Center-Kakamega. In both districts, farms are small and maize yields are very low. Primary data were obtained from farmers through direct interviews based on structured questionnaires. Surveys farmers were chosen through a multistage, purposive sampling procedure with simple random sampling selection. Survey data were used to identify socioeconomic and technical factors affecting the adoption of improved maize seed and fertilizer. Special attention was given to the role of credit in seed and fertilizer adoption. Farmers were grouped into adopters and nonadopters of improved maize, and the two groups were compared. Factors affecting the adoption of improved maize varieties and the use of fertilizer were analyzed using a logit model. The logit analysis showed that secondary education, cattle ownership, use of hired labor, the farmer's location (division), and access to extension all significantly influenced the adoption of improved maize varieties. Cattle ownership, use of hired labor and manure, the farmer's location (division), and membership in an organization were significant factors influencing the adoption of fertilizer

Sturende factoren voor verhoging van vet- en eiwit gehalten in biologische melk : een eerste verkenning

The fat content in organic dairy goat's milk is significantly lower than milk of regular dairy goats. The difference in protein content between organic and regular goat farms is minimal. Statistical analysis shows that the fat content in the organic goat milk fluctuates more in relation to protein. To increase the level of fat and protein content in goat's milk, this report will show aspects regarding nutrition and genetics. Looking at the nutritional aspects of different fat and protein supplements and their effect on fat and protein content in goat's milk, a literature study into different supplements that are tested for their ability to increase the levels was executed. In addition, practical experiences of dairy goat farmers were collected and if possible supported by literature. The dietary ingredients that are dealt with are oils, seeds and beans and fats that bypass the rumen. One of the main conclusions is that almost all plant based dietary fats which are fed to the goats have an effect on the fat content in the milk, while the protein level remains mostly unchanged. These dietary fats seem promising. However, it is important that these fats are not used extensively. A level of fat that is too high will have a negative effect on the intake and digestibility in the rumen. Dietary fats with hay as basic feed will give better results than maize silage. An interaction between the species and the dietary fat seems obvious. It is interesting to think about possible effects of dietary fats in combination with various basic feeds. Experiments with seeds, beans and cakes have various results. Literature has shown that research is executed regarding whole seeds or oils. A recommendation is to investigate the influence of supplementation of 'intermediate forms' on fat and protein levels in goat milk, such as crushed and ground seeds. Most studies regarding rumen protected feeds lead to very positive results, because the nutrients are resistant against microbial degradation in the rumen. Because chemically protected feeds are not permitted in organic farming, one has to look for possibilities to make those feeds resistant in an organic manner. The solution seems to lie within the toasting of foods such as soybean, lupine and barley. Most experiments in this field have been done in dairy cattle and the results were promising. The effect of toasted feed in order to increase the milk composition of dairy goats needs attention. The literature shows that supplementation of crude protein has little or no effect on increasing protein levels in goat milk. Genetic progress can be achieved in organic goat when one breeds on fat and protein content. Looking at the different influences that genetics may have on the fat and protein contents of goat milk, it becomes clear that protein content in milk is determined by the casein genes. Through DNA research, the genetic potential of an animal can be proven. A high protein content has positive effects on fat content, but may have a negative impact on milk production. Also, the taste of goat cheese is influenced by a high protein content. The environmental factors of regular dairy goat farms differ from organic dairy goat farms. It is uncertain whether breeding bucks from the regular production system will have the same performance when used in organic dairy farms. Further research into genotype by environment interaction, in particular food and medication, may give more insight into the use of breeding goats from regular dairy goat farms in organic goat farming. Artificial insemination (AI) offers an opportunity for fresh and better genetic material to enter into the current herd. For AI, oestrus ......

Sturende factoren voor verhoging van vet- en eiwit gehalten in biologische melk : een eerste verkenning

The fat content in organic dairy goat's milk is significantly lower than milk of regular dairy goats. The difference in protein content between organic and regular goat farms is minimal. Statistical analysis shows that the fat content in the organic goat milk fluctuates more in relation to protein. To increase the level of fat and protein content in goat's milk, this report will show aspects regarding nutrition and genetics. Looking at the nutritional aspects of different fat and protein supplements and their effect on fat and protein content in goat's milk, a literature study into different supplements that are tested for their ability to increase the levels was executed. In addition, practical experiences of dairy goat farmers were collected and if possible supported by literature. The dietary ingredients that are dealt with are oils, seeds and beans and fats that bypass the rumen. One of the main conclusions is that almost all plant based dietary fats which are fed to the goats have an effect on the fat content in the milk, while the protein level remains mostly unchanged. These dietary fats seem promising. However, it is important that these fats are not used extensively. A level of fat that is too high will have a negative effect on the intake and digestibility in the rumen. Dietary fats with hay as basic feed will give better results than maize silage. An interaction between the species and the dietary fat seems obvious. It is interesting to think about possible effects of dietary fats in combination with various basic feeds. Experiments with seeds, beans and cakes have various results. Literature has shown that research is executed regarding whole seeds or oils. A recommendation is to investigate the influence of supplementation of 'intermediate forms' on fat and protein levels in goat milk, such as crushed and ground seeds. Most studies regarding rumen protected feeds lead to very positive results, because the nutrients are resistant against microbial degradation in the rumen. Because chemically protected feeds are not permitted in organic farming, one has to look for possibilities to make those feeds resistant in an organic manner. The solution seems to lie within the toasting of foods such as soybean, lupine and barley. Most experiments in this field have been done in dairy cattle and the results were promising. The effect of toasted feed in order to increase the milk composition of dairy goats needs attention. The literature shows that supplementation of crude protein has little or no effect on increasing protein levels in goat milk. Genetic progress can be achieved in organic goat when one breeds on fat and protein content. Looking at the different influences that genetics may have on the fat and protein contents of goat milk, it becomes clear that protein content in milk is determined by the casein genes. Through DNA research, the genetic potential of an animal can be proven. A high protein content has positive effects on fat content, but may have a negative impact on milk production. Also, the taste of goat cheese is influenced by a high protein content. The environmental factors of regular dairy goat farms differ from organic dairy goat farms. It is uncertain whether breeding bucks from the regular production system will have the same performance when used in organic dairy farms. Further research into genotype by environment interaction, in particular food and medication, may give more insight into the use of breeding goats from regular dairy goat farms in organic goat farming. Artificial insemination (AI) offers an opportunity for fresh and better genetic material to enter into the current herd. For AI, oestrus ......

Metal ion complexation: A route to 2D templates?

The two-dimensional ordering of a number of 2,2'-bipyridine derivatives at the liquid/solid interface has been investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy. By appropriate functionalization of the bipyridine units, their intermolecular distance can be tuned, which has proved to be crucial for complexation with metal ions. The in situ addition of metal salts (Pd2+, Cu2+), leading to the formation of metal-bipyridine complexes, has a dramatic influence on the two-dimensional ordering of the molecules and suggests that these complexes could be used as templates