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Neil AL, Pryor A, Kneebone J, Flies EJ. Outdoor mental healthcare: What, who, why and where to? Australas Psychiatry 2023; 31:798-805. [PMID: 37970826 DOI: 10.1177/10398562231211110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Objective: Outdoor mental healthcare can increase the breadth of multidisciplinary interventions available to people with a therapeutic need. The aim of this article is to educate readers about the field of outdoor mental healthcare through the exploration of a series of basic questions.Conclusions: Outdoor mental healthcare spans a range of therapies that apply a variety of theoretical approaches and treatments across a multiplicity of settings, patient groups and desired outcomes unified by key evidence-informed practice elements. Through use of a predominantly non-mainstream workforce working in non-conventional clinical settings outdoor mental healthcare may contribute to treatment accessibility and acceptability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Neil
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- The ALIVE National Centre for Mental Health Research Translation, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Anita Pryor
- Adventure Works Australia, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Outdoor Health Policy Unit, Australian Association for Bush Adventure Therapy, Templestowe, VIC, Australia; and
- Australian Association of Family Therapy Inc., Tasmanian Branch
| | - Jessica Kneebone
- Tasmanian Aboriginal Corporation, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
- School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia; and
- Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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2
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Flies AS, Flies EJ, Fountain-Jones NM, Musgrove RE, Hamede RK, Philips A, Perrott MRF, Dunowska M. Wildlife nidoviruses: biology, epidemiology, and disease associations of selected nidoviruses of mammals and reptiles. mBio 2023; 14:e0071523. [PMID: 37439571 PMCID: PMC10470586 DOI: 10.1128/mbio.00715-23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Wildlife is the source of many emerging infectious diseases. Several viruses from the order Nidovirales have recently emerged in wildlife, sometimes with severe consequences for endangered species. The order Nidovirales is currently classified into eight suborders, three of which contain viruses of vertebrates. Vertebrate coronaviruses (suborder Cornidovirineae) have been extensively studied, yet the other major suborders have received less attention. The aim of this minireview was to summarize the key findings from the published literature on nidoviruses of vertebrate wildlife from two suborders: Arnidovirineae and Tornidovirineae. These viruses were identified either during investigations of disease outbreaks or through molecular surveys of wildlife viromes, and include pathogens of reptiles and mammals. The available data on key biological features, disease associations, and pathology are presented, in addition to data on the frequency of infections among various host populations, and putative routes of transmission. While nidoviruses discussed here appear to have a restricted in vivo host range, little is known about their natural life cycle. Observational field-based studies outside of the mortality events are needed to facilitate an understanding of the virus-host-environment interactions that lead to the outbreaks. Laboratory-based studies are needed to understand the pathogenesis of diseases caused by novel nidoviruses and their evolutionary histories. Barriers preventing research progress include limited funding and the unavailability of virus- and host-specific reagents. To reduce mortalities in wildlife and further population declines, proactive development of expertise, technologies, and networks should be developed. These steps would enable effective management of future outbreaks and support wildlife conservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S. Flies
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
- Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | | | - Ruth E. Musgrove
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Rodrigo K. Hamede
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Annie Philips
- Natural Resources and Environment Tasmania, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | | | - Magdalena Dunowska
- School of Veterinary Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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3
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Grierson J, Flies EJ, Bissett A, Ammitzboll H, Jones P. Which soil microbiome? Bacteria, fungi, and protozoa communities show different relationships with urban green space type and use-intensity. Sci Total Environ 2023; 863:160468. [PMID: 36464041 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to diverse microbial communities early in life can help support healthy human immune function. Soil microbiomes in public and private urban green spaces are potentially important sources of contact with diverse microbiomes for much of the global population. However, we lack understanding of how soil microbial communities vary across and within urban green spaces, and whether these patterns vary across microbial kingdoms; closing this knowledge gap may help us optimise green spaces' capacities to provide this ecosystem service. Here we explore the diversity and community compositions of soil microbiomes across urban green space types in Tasmania, Australia. Specifically, we analysed soil bacterial, fungal, and protozoan diversity and composition across private backyards and public parks. Within parks, we conducted separate sampling for areas of high and low intensity use. We found that: (i) bacteria, fungi, and protozoa showed different patterns of variation, (ii) bacterial alpha-diversity was lowest in low-intensity use areas of parks, (iii) there was relatively little variation in the community composition across backyards, and high and low intensity-use park areas and (iv) neither human-associated bacteria, nor potential microbial community function of bacteria and fungi differed significantly across green space types. To our knowledge, this is the first urban soil microbiome analysis which analyses these three soil microbial kingdoms simultaneously across public and private green space types and within public spaces according to intensity of use. These findings demonstrate how green space type and use intensity may impact on soil microbial diversity and composition, and thus may influence our opportunity to gain healthy exposure to diverse environmental microbiomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Grierson
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia; Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia.
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia; Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia
| | - Andrew Bissett
- Oceans and Atmosphere, CSIRO, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Hans Ammitzboll
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia
| | - Penelope Jones
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia; School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia; Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia
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Flies EJ, Lim JNW, Douglas I. Editorial: Urban ecology and human health. Front Ecol Evol 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2022.1032022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Nash KL, van Putten I, Alexander KA, Bettiol S, Cvitanovic C, Farmery AK, Flies EJ, Ison S, Kelly R, Mackay M, Murray L, Norris K, Robinson LM, Scott J, Ward D, Vince J. Oceans and society: feedbacks between ocean and human health. Rev Fish Biol Fish 2022. [PMID: 34366579 DOI: 10.22541/au.160166568.89566317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The concentration of human population along coastlines has far-reaching effects on ocean and societal health. The oceans provide benefits to humans such as food, coastal protection and improved mental well-being, but can also impact negatively via natural disasters. At the same time, humans influence ocean health, for example, via coastal development or through environmental stewardship. Given the strong feedbacks between ocean and human health there is a need to promote desirable interactions, while minimising undesirable interactions. To this end, we articulate two scenarios for 2030. First, Business-as-Usual, named 'Command and (out of) Control', focuses on the anticipated future based on our current trajectory. Second, a more sustainable scenario called 'Living and Connecting', emphasises the development of interactions between oceans and society consistent with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We describe a potential pathway to achieving the 'Living and Connecting' scenario, centred on improving marine citizenship, achieving a more equitable distribution of power among stakeholders, and more equitable access to resources and opportunities. The constituent actions of this pathway can be categorised into four groups: (i) improved approaches to science and health communication that account for society's diverse values, beliefs and worldviews, (ii) a shift towards more trusted relationships among stakeholders to enable two-way knowledge exchange, (iii) economic incentives that encourage behavioural changes necessary for achieving desired sustainability outcomes, and (iv) stronger regulations that simultaneously focus on ocean and human health. We contend that these changes will provide improved outcomes for both oceans and society over the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty L Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Ingrid van Putten
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Karen A Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anna K Farmery
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Mary Mackay
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, 6140 New Zealand
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Lucy M Robinson
- Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Crawley, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Delphi Ward
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Joanna Vince
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1340, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
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6
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Nash KL, van Putten I, Alexander KA, Bettiol S, Cvitanovic C, Farmery AK, Flies EJ, Ison S, Kelly R, Mackay M, Murray L, Norris K, Robinson LM, Scott J, Ward D, Vince J. Oceans and society: feedbacks between ocean and human health. Rev Fish Biol Fish 2022; 32:161-187. [PMID: 34366579 PMCID: PMC8335471 DOI: 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED The concentration of human population along coastlines has far-reaching effects on ocean and societal health. The oceans provide benefits to humans such as food, coastal protection and improved mental well-being, but can also impact negatively via natural disasters. At the same time, humans influence ocean health, for example, via coastal development or through environmental stewardship. Given the strong feedbacks between ocean and human health there is a need to promote desirable interactions, while minimising undesirable interactions. To this end, we articulate two scenarios for 2030. First, Business-as-Usual, named 'Command and (out of) Control', focuses on the anticipated future based on our current trajectory. Second, a more sustainable scenario called 'Living and Connecting', emphasises the development of interactions between oceans and society consistent with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. We describe a potential pathway to achieving the 'Living and Connecting' scenario, centred on improving marine citizenship, achieving a more equitable distribution of power among stakeholders, and more equitable access to resources and opportunities. The constituent actions of this pathway can be categorised into four groups: (i) improved approaches to science and health communication that account for society's diverse values, beliefs and worldviews, (ii) a shift towards more trusted relationships among stakeholders to enable two-way knowledge exchange, (iii) economic incentives that encourage behavioural changes necessary for achieving desired sustainability outcomes, and (iv) stronger regulations that simultaneously focus on ocean and human health. We contend that these changes will provide improved outcomes for both oceans and society over the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s11160-021-09669-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty L. Nash
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Ingrid van Putten
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Karen A. Alexander
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Silvana Bettiol
- Tasmanian School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, 17 Liverpool Street, Hobart, TAS 7000 Australia
| | - Christopher Cvitanovic
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for the Public Awareness of Science, Australian National University, Canberra, Australia
| | - Anna K. Farmery
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
| | - Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Sierra Ison
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Rachel Kelly
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Mary Mackay
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- CSIRO, Oceans and Atmosphere, Castray Esplanade, Battery Point, TAS 7004 Australia
| | - Linda Murray
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health, Massey University, Wellington, 6140 New Zealand
| | - Kimberley Norris
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Lucy M. Robinson
- Oceans Institute, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- Oceans Graduate School, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009 Australia
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Crawley, WA 6009 Australia
| | - Jennifer Scott
- School of Psychological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 30, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Delphi Ward
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
| | - Joanna Vince
- Centre for Marine Socioecology, Private Bag 129, Hobart, TAS 7001 Australia
- School of Social Sciences, University of Tasmania, Locked Bag 1340, Launceston, TAS 7250 Australia
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Williams CR, Burnell SM, Rogers M, Flies EJ, Baldock KL. Nature-Based Citizen Science as a Mechanism to Improve Human Health in Urban Areas. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 19:68. [PMID: 35010326 PMCID: PMC8751081 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Revised: 12/12/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The world is becoming increasingly urbanised, impacting human interactions with natural environments (NEs). NEs take a number of forms, ranging from pristine, modified, to built NEs, which are common in many urban areas. NEs may include nature-based solutions, such as introducing nature elements and biological processes into cities that are used to solve problems created by urbanisation. Whilst urbanisation has negative impacts on human health, impacting mental and physical wellbeing through a number of mechanisms, exposure to NEs may improve human health and wellbeing. Here, we review the mechanisms by which health can be improved by exposure to NEs, as explained by Stress Reduction Theory, Attention Restoration Theory, and the 'Old Friends'/biodiversity hypothesis. Such exposures may have physiological and immunological benefits, mediated through endocrine pathways and altered microbiota. Citizen Science, which often causes exposure to NEs and social activity, is being increasingly used to not only collect scientific data but also to engage individuals and communities. Despite being a named component of scientific and environmental strategies of governments, to our knowledge, the intrinsic health benefits of Citizen Science in NEs do not form part of public health policy. We contend that Citizen Science programs that facilitate exposure to NEs in urban areas may represent an important public health policy advance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Craig R. Williams
- UniSA Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (S.M.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Sophie M. Burnell
- UniSA Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (S.M.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Michelle Rogers
- UniSA Clinical and Health Science, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia; (S.M.B.); (M.R.)
| | - Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart, TAS 7001, Australia;
| | - Katherine L. Baldock
- UniSA Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, GPO Box 2471, Adelaide, SA 5001, Australia;
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Jayasinghe S, Flies EJ, Soward R, Kendal D, Kilpatrick M, Holloway TP, Patterson KAE, Ahuja KDK, Hughes R, Byrne NM, Hills AP. A Spatial Analysis of Access to Physical Activity Infrastructure and Healthy Food in Regional Tasmania. Front Public Health 2021; 9:773609. [PMID: 34926390 PMCID: PMC8671161 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.773609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Prevalence of physical inactivity and obesity continues to increase in regional areas such as North-West (NW) Tasmania and show no signs of abating. It is possible that limited access to physical activity infrastructure (PAI) and healthier food options are exacerbating the low levels of habitual physical activity and obesity prevalence in these communities. Despite a burgeoning research base, concomitant exploration of both physical activity and food environments in rural and regional areas remain scarce. This research evaluated access (i.e., coverage, variety, density, and proximity) to physical activity resources and food outlets in relation to socioeconomic status (SES) in three NW Tasmanian communities. In all three study areas, the PAI and food outlets were largely concentrated in the main urban areas with most recreational tracks and natural amenities located along the coastline or river areas. Circular Head had the lowest total number of PAI (n = 43) but a greater proportion (30%) of free-to-access outdoor amenities. There was marked variation in accessibility to infrastructure across different areas of disadvantage within and between sites. For a considerable proportion of the population, free-to-access natural amenities/green spaces and recreational tracks (73 and 57%, respectively) were beyond 800 m from their households. In relation to food accessibility, only a small proportion of the food outlets across the region sells predominantly healthy (i.e., Tier 1) foods (~6, 13, and 10% in Burnie, Circular Head and Devonport, respectively). Similarly, only a small proportion of the residents are within a reasonable walking distance (i.e., 5–10 min walk) from outlets. In contrast, a much larger proportion of residents lived close to food outlets selling predominantly energy-dense, highly processed food (i.e., Tier 2 outlets). Circular Head had at least twice as many Tier 1 food stores per capita than Devonport and Burnie (0.23 vs. 0.10 and 0.06; respectively) despite recording the highest average distance (4.35 and 5.66 km to Tier 2/Tier 1 stores) to a food outlet. As such, it is possible that both food and physical activity environment layouts in each site are contributing to the obesogenic nature of each community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sisitha Jayasinghe
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.,Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Robert Soward
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Dave Kendal
- Healthy Landscapes Research Group, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia.,School of Geography, Planning and Spatial Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Michelle Kilpatrick
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Timothy P Holloway
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Kira A E Patterson
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Kiran D K Ahuja
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Roger Hughes
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Nuala M Byrne
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - Andrew P Hills
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
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Bradby K, Wallace KJ, Cross AT, Flies EJ, Witehira C, Keesing A, Dudley T, Breed MF, Howling G, Weinstein P, Aronson J. Four Islands
EcoHealth
Network: an Australasian initiative building synergies between the restoration of ecosystems and human health. Restor Ecol 2021. [DOI: 10.1111/rec.13382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Kiri J. Wallace
- People, Cities and Nature University of Waikato Hillcrest Hamilton 3216 New Zealand
| | - Adam T. Cross
- EcoHealth Network 1330 Beacon Street, Suite 355a Brookline MA 02446 U.S.A
- School of Molecular and Life Sciences Curtin University GPO Box U1987 Bentley WA 6102 Australia
| | - Emily J. Flies
- Healthy Landscapes Group, School of Natural Sciences University of Tasmania Churchill Avenue Hobart TAS 7005 Australia
| | - Celia Witehira
- Reconnecting Northland PO Box 5019 Whangārei Aotearoa New Zealand
| | | | - Todd Dudley
- North East Bioregional Network 24751 Tasman Highway St. Marys TAS 7215 Australia
| | - Martin F. Breed
- College of Science and Engineering Flinders University Bedford Park SA 5042 Australia
| | - Gary Howling
- Great Eastern Ranges Initiative P.O. Box 528 Pyrmont NSW 2009 Australia
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Public Health University of Adelaide Adelaide SA 5001 Australia
| | - James Aronson
- EcoHealth Network 1330 Beacon Street, Suite 355a Brookline MA 02446 U.S.A
- Center for Conservation and Sustainable Development Missouri Botanical Garden 4344 Shaw Boulevard St. Louis MO 63166‐0299 U.S.A
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Nguyen HKD, Jones PJ, Kendal D, Flies EJ. Disentangling the Environment in Wildlife Microbiome-Behaviour Interactions: Response to Davidson et al. Trends Ecol Evol 2020; 36:277-278. [PMID: 33293194 DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2020.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Hanh K D Nguyen
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, TAS 7005, Australia.
| | - Penelope J Jones
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia
| | - Dave Kendal
- School of Technology, Environments and Design, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, TAS 7005, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, TAS 7005, Australia
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11
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Flies EJ, Jones P, Buettel JC, Brook BW. Compromised Ecosystem Services From Urban Aerial Microbiomes: A Review of Impacts on Human Immune Function. Front Ecol Evol 2020. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2020.568902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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12
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Flies EJ, Clarke LJ, Brook BW, Jones P. Urbanisation reduces the abundance and diversity of airborne microbes - but what does that mean for our health? A systematic review. Sci Total Environ 2020; 738:140337. [PMID: 32806360 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.140337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Over half of people live in cities and while urban environments offer myriad social, cultural and economic benefits, they alter the microbial communities to which people are exposed: with potentially important but underexplored health impacts. In particular, higher rates of asthma and allergies in urban areas have been linked to urban-altered microbial communities - including aerial microbial communities. To date, however, there has been no synthesis of the disparate literature on the impacts of urbanisation on aerial microbial communities, making it difficult to ascertain potential health impacts. We fill this knowledge gap by systematically examining studies that compare the characteristics (e.g. microbial abundance/diversity) and/or health effects of airborne fungal and bacterial communities (hereafter referred to as 'aerobiomes') across urban and rural locations. We included 19 studies, with 31 distinct urban-rural comparisons, in our analysis. We found that rural aerobiomes more often have a greater abundance of microbes (57% of studies). Aerobiome diversity was under-reported but when comparisons were made, rural aerobiome diversity was often higher (67%). Only two studies experimentally examined the impact of urban and rural aerobiomes on human health outcomes; both found rural aerobiomes shifted immune function away from allergic (Th2-type) responses. Overall, we conclude that significant gaps remain in our understanding of how urbanisation impacts aerobiomes and the health implications of those changes. We highlight the need to standardise methods and make aerobiome data open access to facilitate cross-study comparisons. Further mechanistic studies are urgently needed to examine the impact of aerobiome composition on immune function to demonstrate how urban-driven changes to the aerobiome impact human health - ultimately facilitating the development of healthier cities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Laurence J Clarke
- Antarctic Climate & Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre, University of Tasmania, Australia; Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Australia
| | - Barry W Brook
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), Australia
| | - Penelope Jones
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Australia
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Clarke LJ, Jones PJ, Ammitzboll H, Barmuta LA, Breed MF, Chariton A, Charleston M, Dakwa V, Dewi F, Eri R, Fountain-Jones NM, Freeman J, Kendal D, McDougal R, Raes EJ, Sow SLS, Staples T, Sutcliffe B, Vemuri R, Weyrich LS, Flies EJ. Mainstreaming Microbes across Biomes. Bioscience 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biaa057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in the environment (i.e., environmental microbiomes) provide vital ecosystem services and affect human health. Despite their importance, public awareness of environmental microbiomes has lagged behind that of human microbiomes. A key problem has been a scarcity of research demonstrating the microbial connections across environmental biomes (e.g., marine, soil) and between environmental and human microbiomes. We show in the present article, through analyses of almost 10,000 microbiome papers and three global data sets, that there are significant taxonomic similarities in microbial communities across biomes, but very little cross-biome research exists. This disconnect may be hindering advances in microbiome knowledge and translation. In this article, we highlight current and potential applications of environmental microbiome research and the benefits of an interdisciplinary, cross-biome approach. Microbiome scientists need to engage with each other, government, industry, and the public to ensure that research and applications proceed ethically, maximizing the potential benefits to society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence J Clarke
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, and LJC is also affiliated with the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre, University of Tasmania, in Hobart, Australia
| | - Penelope J Jones
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Hans Ammitzboll
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
- ARC Training Centre for Forest Value, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Leon A Barmuta
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Martin F Breed
- College of Scienceand Engineering, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia, and with the Healthy Urban Microbiome Initiative (www.HUMIglobal.org) in the United Kingdom
| | - Anthony Chariton
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | | | - Vongai Dakwa
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Fera Dewi
- Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | | | - Jules Freeman
- Scion, part of the New Zealand Forest Research Institute Ltd., Rotorua, New Zealand
| | - Dave Kendal
- Research Centre for Marine and Fisheries Product Processing and Biotechnology, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Jakarta, Indonesia
- School of Technology, Environments, and Design, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Rebecca McDougal
- Scion, part of the New Zealand Forest Research Institute Ltd., Rotorua, New Zealand
| | - Eric J Raes
- Oceans and Atmosphere, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Hobart, Australia
| | - Swan Li San Sow
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, and LJC is also affiliated with the Antarctic Climate and Ecosystems Cooperative Research Centre, University of Tasmania, in Hobart, Australia
- Oceans and Atmosphere, Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, Hobart, Australia
| | - Timothy Staples
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia, and with the School of Biological Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia. RV is also affiliated with the Department of Comparative Medicine, in the School of Medicine, at Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Brodie Sutcliffe
- Department of Biological Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ravichandra Vemuri
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Launceston, Australia
| | - Laura S Weyrich
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia, and with the Department of Anthropology at The Pennsylvania State University, in University Park, Pennsylvania
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Flies AS, Flies EJ, Fox S, Gilbert A, Johnson SR, Liu GS, Lyons AB, Patchett AL, Pemberton D, Pye RJ. An oral bait vaccination approach for the Tasmanian devil facial tumor diseases. Expert Rev Vaccines 2020; 19:1-10. [PMID: 31971036 DOI: 10.1080/14760584.2020.1711058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: The Tasmanian devil (Sarcophilus harrisii) is the largest extant carnivorous marsupial. Since 1996, its population has declined by 77% primarily due to a clonal transmissible tumor, known as devil facial tumor (DFT1) disease. In 2014, a second transmissible devil facial tumor (DFT2) was discovered. DFT1 and DFT2 are nearly 100% fatal.Areas covered: We review DFT control approaches and propose a rabies-style oral bait vaccine (OBV) platform for DFTs. This approach has an extensive safety record and was a primary tool in large-scale rabies virus elimination from wild carnivores across diverse landscapes. Like rabies virus, DFTs are transmitted by oral contact, so immunizing the oral cavity and stimulating resident memory cells could be advantageous. Additionally, exposing infected devils that already have tumors to OBVs could serve as an oncolytic virus immunotherapy. The primary challenges may be identifying appropriate DFT-specific antigens and optimization of field delivery methods.Expert opinion: DFT2 is currently found on a peninsula in southern Tasmania, so an OBV that could eliminate DFT2 should be the priority for this vaccine approach. Translation of an OBV approach to control DFTs will be challenging, but the approach is feasible for combatting ongoing and future disease threats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Flies
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Sciences and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Australia
| | - Samantha Fox
- Save the Tasmanian Devil Program, DPIPWE, Hobart, Australia.,Toledo Zoo, Toledo, OH, USA
| | - Amy Gilbert
- National Wildlife Research Center, USDA, APHIS, Wildlife Services, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Shylo R Johnson
- National Wildlife Research Center, USDA, APHIS, Wildlife Services, Fort Collins, CO, USA
| | - Guei-Sheung Liu
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.,Ophthalmology, Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, East Melbourne, Australia
| | - A Bruce Lyons
- School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Amanda L Patchett
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | | | - Ruth J Pye
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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Flies EJ, Mavoa S, Zosky GR, Mantzioris E, Williams C, Eri R, Brook BW, Buettel JC. Urban-associated diseases: Candidate diseases, environmental risk factors, and a path forward. Environ Int 2019; 133:105187. [PMID: 31648161 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.105187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 09/13/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cities are home to over half the global population; that proportion is expected to rise to 70% by mid-century. The urban environment differs greatly from that in which humans evolved, with potentially important consequences for health. Rates for allergic, inflammatory and auto-immune diseases appear to rise with urbanization and be higher in the more urbanized nations of the world which has led some to suggest that cities promote the occurrence of these diseases. However, there are no syntheses outlining what urban-associated diseases are and what characteristics of cities promote their occurrence. OBJECTIVES To synthesize the current understanding of "urban-associated diseases", and discover the common, potentially modifiable features of cities that may be driving these associations. METHODS We focus on any diseases that have been associated with cities or are particularly prominent in today's urban societies. We draw on expertise across diverse health fields to examine the evidence for urban connections and drivers. DISCUSSION We found evidence for urban associations across allergic, auto-immune, inflammatory, lifestyle and infectious disease categories. Some conditions (e.g. obesity and diabetes) have complex relationships with cities that have been insufficiently explored. Other conditions (e.g. allergies and asthma) have more evidence demonstrating their relationship with cities and the mechanisms driving that association. Unsurprisingly, air pollution was the characteristic of cities most frequently associated with disease. Other identified urban risk factors are not as widely known: altered microbial exposure and a disconnect from environmental microbiomes, vitamin D deficiency, noise and light pollution, and a transient, over-crowded, impoverished population. However, many complexities and caveats to these relationships beg clarification; we highlight the current knowledge gaps and outline ways to fill those gaps. Identifying urban-associated diseases and their drivers will allow us to prepare for the urban-disease burden of the future and create healthy cities that mitigate that disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.
| | - Suzanne Mavoa
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Graeme R Zosky
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia; School of Medicine, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Evangeline Mantzioris
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences & Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition and Activity (ARENA), University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Craig Williams
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rajaraman Eri
- School of Health Sciences, College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Barry W Brook
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Jessie C Buettel
- School of Natural Sciences, College of Science and Engineering, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
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16
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Flies EJ, Skelly C, Lovell R, Breed MF, Phillips D, Weinstein P. Cities, biodiversity and health: we need healthy urban microbiome initiatives. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/23748834.2018.1546641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J. Flies
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
| | - Chris Skelly
- Public Health Dorset, Dorset County Council, Dorchester, UK
| | - Rebecca Lovell
- European Centre for Environment and Human Health, University of Exeter Medical School, Truro, UK
| | - Martin F. Breed
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - David Phillips
- Public Health Dorset, Dorset County Council, Dorchester, UK
| | - Philip Weinstein
- School of Biological Sciences and the Environment Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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17
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Buettel JC, Brook BW, Cole A, Dickey J, Flies EJ. Astro-ecology? Shifting the interdisciplinary collaboration paradigm. Ecol Evol 2018; 8:9586-9589. [PMID: 30386558 PMCID: PMC6202704 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.4455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
We present a case study whereby ecological research on fallen trees in forest plots was advanced by a collaboration with astronomers working on the vector fields of stars and gas, and we propose a framework by which such novel collaborations can progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessie C Buettel
- School of Biological Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage Sandy Bay Tasmania
| | - Barry W Brook
- School of Biological Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage Sandy Bay Tasmania
| | - Andrew Cole
- School of Physical Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania
| | - John Dickey
- School of Physical Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Biological Sciences University of Tasmania Hobart Tasmania
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18
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Flies EJ, Brook BW, Blomqvist L, Buettel JC. Forecasting future global food demand: A systematic review and meta-analysis of model complexity. Environ Int 2018; 120:93-103. [PMID: 30075374 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2018.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2018] [Revised: 07/09/2018] [Accepted: 07/11/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Predicting future food demand is a critical step for formulating the agricultural, economic and conservation policies required to feed over 9 billion people by 2050 while doing minimal harm to the environment. However, published future food demand estimates range substantially, making it difficult to determine optimal policies. Here we present a systematic review of the food demand literature-including a meta-analysis of papers reporting average global food demand predictions-and test the effect of model complexity on predictions. We show that while estimates of future global kilocalorie demand have a broad range, they are not consistently dependent on model complexity or form. Indeed, time-series and simple income-based models often make similar predictions to integrated assessments (e.g., with expert opinions, future prices or climate influencing forecasts), despite having different underlying assumptions and mechanisms. However, reporting of model accuracy and uncertainty was uncommon, leading to difficulties in making evidence-based decisions about which forecasts to trust. We argue for improved model reporting and transparency to reduce this problem and improve the pace of development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart 7001, Australia.
| | - Barry W Brook
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart 7001, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), Australia
| | | | - Jessie C Buettel
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Tasmania, Private Bag 55, Hobart 7001, Australia; ARC Centre of Excellence for Australian Biodiversity and Heritage (CABAH), Australia
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19
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Flies EJ, Lau CL, Carver S, Weinstein P. Another Emerging Mosquito-Borne Disease? Endemic Ross River Virus Transmission in the Absence of Marsupial Reservoirs. Bioscience 2018. [DOI: 10.1093/biosci/biy011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- University of Adelaide, in Australia
- University of Tasmania, in Australia
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20
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Flies EJ, Weinstein P, Anderson SJ, Koolhof I, Foufopoulos J, Williams CR. Ross River Virus and the Necessity of Multiscale, Eco-epidemiological Analyses. J Infect Dis 2017; 217:807-815. [DOI: 10.1093/infdis/jix615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Flies EJ, Toi C, Weinstein P, Doggett SL, Williams CR. Converting Mosquito Surveillance to Arbovirus Surveillance with Honey-Baited Nucleic Acid Preservation Cards. Vector Borne Zoonotic Dis 2017; 15:397-403. [PMID: 26186511 DOI: 10.1089/vbz.2014.1759] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Spatially and temporally accurate information about infectious mosquito distribution allows for pre-emptive public health interventions that can reduce the burden of mosquito-borne infections on human populations. However, the labile nature of arboviruses, the low prevalence of infection in mosquitoes, the expensive labor costs for mosquito identification and sorting, and the specialized equipment required for arbovirus testing can obstruct arbovirus surveillance efforts. The recently developed techniques of testing mosquito expectorate using honey-baited nucleic acid preservation cards or sugar bait stations allows a sensitive method of testing for infectious, rather than infected, mosquito vectors. Here we report the results from the first large-scale incorporation of honey-baited cards into an existing mosquito surveillance program. During 4 months of the peak virus season (January-April, 2014) for a total of 577 trap nights, we set CO2-baited encephalitis vector survey (EVS) light traps at 88 locations in South Australia. The collection container for the EVS trap was modified to allow for the placement of a honey-baited nucleic acid preservation card (FTA™ card) inside. After collection, mosquitoes were maintained in a humid environment and allowed access to the cards for 1 week. Cards were then analyzed for common endemic Australian arboviruses using a nested RT-PCR. Eighteen virus detections, including 11 Ross River virus, four Barmah Forest virus, and three Stratford virus (not previously reported from South Australia) were obtained. Our findings suggest that adding FTA cards to an existing mosquito surveillance program is a rapid and efficient way of detecting infectious mosquitoes with high spatial resolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- 1 Sansom Institute for Health Research, and School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Cheryl Toi
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Disease Microbiological Laboratory Services, Pathology West-ICPMR, Westmead Hospital , Westmead, Australia
| | - Philip Weinstein
- 3 School of Biological Sciences, University of Adelaide, and School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia , Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephen L Doggett
- 2 Department of Medical Entomology, Centre for Infectious Disease Microbiological Laboratory Services, Pathology West-ICPMR, Westmead Hospital , Westmead, Australia
| | - Craig R Williams
- 1 Sansom Institute for Health Research, and School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia , Adelaide, Australia
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Flies EJ, Flies AS, Fricker SR, Weinstein P, Williams CR. Regional Comparison of Mosquito Bloodmeals in South Australia: Implications for Ross River Virus Ecology. J Med Entomol 2016; 53:902-910. [PMID: 27113100 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjw035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2015] [Accepted: 03/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Ross River virus (RRV) is responsible for the most notifications of human arboviral infection in Australia. Seroprevalence and experimental infection studies have implicated macropods (e.g., kangaroos) as the major reservoir hosts. However, transmission ecology varies spatially, and infections in urban areas have prompted the question of what animals serve as reservoirs in regions where macropods are scarce. In South Australia (SA), human infection rates for RRV vary greatly by region as do vector and reservoir abundance. We hypothesized that mosquito abundance and feeding patterns would vary among ecoregions of SA and could help explain divergent human case rates. To test our hypothesis, we amplified and sequenced a 457 base pair region of the cytochrome B segment of mitochondrial DNA from blood fed mosquitoes collected in three main ecoregions of SA and identified sequences using a BLAST search in NCBI. Domestic livestock made up the vast majority of bloodmeals from the region with the highest human infection rate. Livestock are generally not considered to be important reservoir hosts for RRV, but our results suggest they may have a role in transmission ecology in some places. Surprisingly, none of the 199 bloodmeal samples were identified as macropod in origin. In the context of these findings, we consider the possible RRV vectors and reservoir hosts in these regions and propose that diverse spatial and temporal transmission ecologies occur in SA, depending on vector and reservoir availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily J Flies
- University of South Australia, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, GPO Box 2471 Adelaide SA 5001, Australia (; ; ; ),
| | - Andrew S Flies
- University of South Australia, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, GPO Box 2471 Adelaide SA 5001, Australia (; ; ; )
- University of Tasmania, Menzies Institute for Medical Research, 17 Liverpool St., Hobart TAS 7000, Australia, and
| | - Stephen R Fricker
- University of South Australia, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, GPO Box 2471 Adelaide SA 5001, Australia (; ; ; )
| | - Philip Weinstein
- Adelaide University, School of Biological Sciences, Molecular Life Sciences Ground Level, North Terrace, Adelaide SA 5005, Australia
| | - Craig R Williams
- University of South Australia, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, GPO Box 2471 Adelaide SA 5001, Australia (; ; ; )
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Abstract
Social rank can profoundly affect many aspects of mammalian reproduction and stress physiology, but little is known about how immune function is affected by rank and other socio-ecological factors in free-living animals.In this study we examine the effects of sex, social rank, and reproductive status on immune function in long-lived carnivores that are routinely exposed to a plethora of pathogens, yet rarely show signs of disease.Here we show that two types of immune defenses, complement-mediated bacterial killing capacity (BKC) and total IgM, are positively correlated with social rank in wild hyenas, but that a third type, total IgG, does not vary with rank.Female spotted hyenas, which are socially dominant to males in this species, have higher BKC, and higher IgG and IgM concentrations, than do males.Immune defenses are lower in lactating than pregnant females, suggesting the immune defenses may be energetically costly.Serum cortisol and testosterone concentrations are not reliable predictors of basic immune defenses in wild female spotted hyenas.These results suggest that immune defenses are costly and multiple socioecological variables are important determinants of basic immune defenses among wild hyenas. Effects of these variables should be accounted for when attempting to understand disease ecology and immune function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew S Flies
- Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, 7000, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia; Department of Zoology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, U.S.A; Interdisciplinary program in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Linda S Mansfield
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Emily J Flies
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, SA, 5000, Australia
| | - Chris K Grant
- Custom Monoclonals International Corp, West Sacramento, CA 95691, USA
| | - Kay E Holekamp
- Department of Zoology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, U.S.A; Interdisciplinary program in Ecology, Evolutionary Biology and Behavior, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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