786 results on '"Telfer P"'
Search Results
2. ECERS-3: Identifying Gaps and Equity Challenges Focus Group Themes
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, FPG Child Development Institute, Telfer, N. A., Kaplan, R., Yazejian, N., and Iruka, I.
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This report summarizes themes that emerged from six listening sessions held in April 2022 with Black and Latine Pre-K teachers, directors, and technical assistance providers. The purpose of the listening sessions was to understand participants' perceptions of the Early Childhood Environment Rating Scale (ECERS-3) and to gauge the extent to which the tool is culturally grounded.
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- 2022
3. ZOom Delivered Intervention Against Cognitive decline (ZODIAC) COVID-19 pandemic adaptations to the Post-Ischaemic Stroke Cardiovascular Exercise Study (PISCES): protocol for a randomised controlled trial of remotely delivered fitness training for brain health
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Brodtmann, Amy, Billett, Alex, Telfer, Rachael, Adkins, Kim, White, Laura, McCambridge, Laura J. E., Burrell, Louise M., Thijs, Vincent, Kramer, Sharon, Werden, Emilio, Cardoso, Barbara R., Pase, Matthew, Hung, Stanley Hughwa, Churilov, Leonid, Bernhardt, Julie, Hayward, Kathryn, and Johnson, Liam
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- 2024
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4. Global arthropod beta-diversity is spatially and temporally structured by latitude
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Seymour, Mathew, Roslin, Tomas, deWaard, Jeremy R., Perez, Kate H. J., D’Souza, Michelle L., Ratnasingham, Sujeevan, Ashfaq, Muhammad, Levesque-Beaudin, Valerie, Blagoev, Gergin A., Bukowski, Belén, Cale, Peter, Crosbie, Denise, Decaëns, Thibaud, deWaard, Stephanie L., Ekrem, Torbjørn, El-Ansary, Hosam O., Evouna Ondo, Fidèle, Fraser, David, Geiger, Matthias F., Hajibabaei, Mehrdad, Hallwachs, Winnie, Hanisch, Priscila E., Hausmann, Axel, Heath, Mark, Hogg, Ian D., Janzen, Daniel H., Kinnaird, Margaret, Kohn, Joshua R., Larrivée, Maxim, Lees, David C., León-Règagnon, Virginia, Liddell, Michael, Lijtmaer, Darío A., Lipinskaya, Tatsiana, Locke, Sean A., Manjunath, Ramya, Martins, Dino J., Martins, Marlúcia B., Mazumdar, Santosh, McKeown, Jaclyn T. A., Anderson-Teixeria, Kristina, Miller, Scott E., Milton, Megan A., Miskie, Renee, Morinière, Jérôme, Mutanen, Marko, Naik, Suresh, Nichols, Becky, Noguera, Felipe A., Novotny, Vojtech, Penev, Lyubomir, Pentinsaari, Mikko, Quinn, Jenna, Ramsay, Leah, Rochefort, Regina, Schmidt, Stefan, Smith, M. Alex, Sobel, Crystal N., Somervuo, Panu, Sones, Jayme E., Staude, Hermann S., St. Jaques, Brianne, Stur, Elisabeth, Telfer, Angela C., Tubaro, Pablo L., Wardlaw, Tim J., Worcester, Robyn, Yang, Zhaofu, Young, Monica R., Zemlak, Tyler, Zakharov, Evgeny V., Zlotnick, Bradley, Ovaskainen, Otso, and Hebert, Paul D. N.
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- 2024
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5. Cancer diagnosis after emergency presentations in people with mental health and substance use conditions: a national cohort study
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Cunningham, Ruth, Stanley, James, Imlach, Fiona, Haitana, Tracy, Lockett, Helen, Every-Palmer, Susanna, Clark, Mau Te Rangimarie, Lacey, Cameron, Telfer, Kendra, and Peterson, Debbie
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- 2024
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6. The bii4africa dataset of faunal and floral population intactness estimates across Africa’s major land uses
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Clements, Hayley S., Do Linh San, Emmanuel, Hempson, Gareth, Linden, Birthe, Maritz, Bryan, Monadjem, Ara, Reynolds, Chevonne, Siebert, Frances, Stevens, Nicola, Biggs, Reinette, De Vos, Alta, Blanchard, Ryan, Child, Matthew, Esler, Karen J., Hamann, Maike, Loft, Ty, Reyers, Belinda, Selomane, Odirilwe, Skowno, Andrew L., Tshoke, Tshegofatso, Abdoulaye, Diarrassouba, Aebischer, Thierry, Aguirre-Gutiérrez, Jesús, Alexander, Graham J., Ali, Abdullahi H., Allan, David G., Amoako, Esther E., Angedakin, Samuel, Aruna, Edward, Avenant, Nico L., Badjedjea, Gabriel, Bakayoko, Adama, Bamba-kaya, Abraham, Bates, Michael F., Bates, Paul J. J., Belmain, Steven R., Bennitt, Emily, Bradley, James, Brewster, Chris A., Brown, Michael B., Brown, Michelle, Bryja, Josef, Butynski, Thomas M., Carvalho, Filipe, Channing, Alan, Chapman, Colin A., Cohen, Callan, Cords, Marina, Cramer, Jennifer D., Cronk, Nadine, Cunneyworth, Pamela M. K., Dalerum, Fredrik, Danquah, Emmanuel, Davies-Mostert, Harriet T., de Blocq, Andrew D., De Jong, Yvonne A., Demos, Terrence C., Denys, Christiane, Djagoun, Chabi A. M. S., Doherty-Bone, Thomas M., Drouilly, Marine, du Toit, Johan T., Ehlers Smith, David A., Ehlers Smith, Yvette C., Eiseb, Seth J., Fashing, Peter J., Ferguson, Adam W., Fernández-García, José M., Finckh, Manfred, Fischer, Claude, Gandiwa, Edson, Gaubert, Philippe, Gaugris, Jerome Y., Gibbs, Dalton J., Gilchrist, Jason S., Gil-Sánchez, Jose M., Githitho, Anthony N., Goodman, Peter S., Granjon, Laurent, Grobler, J. Paul, Gumbi, Bonginkosi C., Gvozdik, Vaclav, Harvey, James, Hauptfleisch, Morgan, Hayder, Firas, Hema, Emmanuel M., Herbst, Marna, Houngbédji, Mariano, Huntley, Brian J., Hutterer, Rainer, Ivande, Samuel T., Jackson, Kate, Jongsma, Gregory F. M., Juste, Javier, Kadjo, Blaise, Kaleme, Prince K., Kamugisha, Edwin, Kaplin, Beth A., Kato, Humphrey N., Kiffner, Christian, Kimuyu, Duncan M., Kityo, Robert M., Kouamé, N’goran G., Kouete T, Marcel, le Roux, Aliza, Lee, Alan T. K., Lötter, Mervyn C., Lykke, Anne Mette, MacFadyen, Duncan N., Macharia, Gacheru P., Madikiza, Zimkitha J. K., Mahlaba, Themb’alilahlwa A. M., Mallon, David, Mamba, Mnqobi L., Mande, Claude, Marchant, Rob A., Maritz, Robin A., Markotter, Wanda, McIntyre, Trevor, Measey, John, Mekonnen, Addisu, Meller, Paulina, Melville, Haemish I., Mganga, Kevin Z., Mills, Michael G. L., Minnie, Liaan, Missoup, Alain Didier, Mohammad, Abubakr, Moinde, Nancy N., Moise, Bakwo Fils E., Monterroso, Pedro, Moore, Jennifer F., Musila, Simon, Nago, Sedjro Gilles A., Namoto, Maganizo W., Niang, Fatimata, Nicolas, Violaine, Nkenku, Jerry B., Nkrumah, Evans E., Nono, Gonwouo L., Norbert, Mulavwa M., Nowak, Katarzyna, Obitte, Benneth C., Okoni-Williams, Arnold D., Onongo, Jonathan, O’Riain, M. Justin, Osinubi, Samuel T., Parker, Daniel M., Parrini, Francesca, Peel, Mike J. S., Penner, Johannes, Pietersen, Darren W., Plumptre, Andrew J., Ponsonby, Damian W., Porembski, Stefan, Power, R. John, Radloff, Frans G. T., Rambau, Ramugondo V., Ramesh, Tharmalingam, Richards, Leigh R., Rödel, Mark-Oliver, Rollinson, Dominic P., Rovero, Francesco, Saleh, Mostafa A., Schmiedel, Ute, Schoeman, M. Corrie, Scholte, Paul, Serfass, Thomas L., Shapiro, Julie Teresa, Shema, Sidney, Siebert, Stefan J., Slingsby, Jasper A., Sliwa, Alexander, Smit-Robinson, Hanneline A., Sogbohossou, Etotepe A., Somers, Michael J., Spawls, Stephen, Streicher, Jarryd P., Swanepoel, Lourens, Tanshi, Iroro, Taylor, Peter J., Taylor, William A., te Beest, Mariska, Telfer, Paul T., Thompson, Dave I., Tobi, Elie, Tolley, Krystal A., Turner, Andrew A., Twine, Wayne, Van Cakenberghe, Victor, Van de Perre, Frederik, van der Merwe, Helga, van Niekerk, Chris J. G., van Wyk, Pieter C. V., Venter, Jan A., Verburgt, Luke, Veron, Geraldine, Vetter, Susanne, Vorontsova, Maria S., Wagner, Thomas C., Webala, Paul W., Weber, Natalie, Weier, Sina M., White, Paula A., Whitecross, Melissa A., Wigley, Benjamin J., Willems, Frank J., Winterbach, Christiaan W., and Woodhouse, Galena M.
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- 2024
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7. Canadians’ knowledge of cancer risk factors and belief in cancer myths
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E, Rydz, J, Telfer, EK, Quinn, SS, Fazel, E, Holmes, G, Pennycook, and CE, Peters
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- 2024
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8. ZOom Delivered Intervention Against Cognitive decline (ZODIAC) COVID-19 pandemic adaptations to the Post-Ischaemic Stroke Cardiovascular Exercise Study (PISCES): protocol for a randomised controlled trial of remotely delivered fitness training for brain health
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Amy Brodtmann, Alex Billett, Rachael Telfer, Kim Adkins, Laura White, Laura J. E. McCambridge, Louise M. Burrell, Vincent Thijs, Sharon Kramer, Emilio Werden, Barbara R. Cardoso, Matthew Pase, Stanley Hughwa Hung, Leonid Churilov, Julie Bernhardt, Kathryn Hayward, and Liam Johnson
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Ischaemic stroke ,Dementia ,Cognition ,Exercise training ,Physical activity ,Telerehabilitation ,Medicine (General) ,R5-920 - Abstract
Abstract Background Stroke increases subsequent dementia risk yet there are no specific post-stroke therapies to protect cognition. Cardiorespiratory exercise is recommended for secondary prevention of stroke and may be neuroprotective. The Post Ischaemic Stroke Cardiovascular Exercise Study (PISCES) aims to reduce post-stroke secondary neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. During the pandemic, we pivoted to a ZOom Delivered Intervention Against Cognitive decline (ZODIAC) protocol, reducing pandemic-amplified barriers to exercise. Methods We present pandemic adaptions for a multicentre phase IIb assessor-blinded randomised controlled trial of ischaemic stroke survivors testing the efficacy and feasibility of an 8-week home-based exercise intervention delivered at 2 months post-stroke. We compare cardiorespiratory exercise (intervention arm) versus balance and stretching (active control arm). Participants are assessed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), fitness, blood, microbiome, and neuropsychological tests at three study visits: before and after the exercise intervention and at 12 months. Modifications to the original protocol include pre-exercise safety home visits, commercial delivery of exercise equipment to facilitate assessor blinding, and reconsideration of statistical plan to allow pooling of the studies. We have reduced in-person study visits from 27 to 3. Primary outcome remains between-group (intervention versus control) difference in brain volume change; secondary outcome is between-group difference in global cognitive ability to allow remote administration of a validated cognitive scale. Discussion Remotely delivered exercise interventions reduce participant burden and may reduce barriers to recruitment. A decrease in the number of in-person study visits can be supported by greater information capture via self-reported questionnaires and phone surveys. Trial registration Prospectively ACTRN12616000942459. Registered on July 2016.
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- 2024
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9. Global arthropod beta-diversity is spatially and temporally structured by latitude
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Mathew Seymour, Tomas Roslin, Jeremy R. deWaard, Kate H. J. Perez, Michelle L. D’Souza, Sujeevan Ratnasingham, Muhammad Ashfaq, Valerie Levesque-Beaudin, Gergin A. Blagoev, Belén Bukowski, Peter Cale, Denise Crosbie, Thibaud Decaëns, Stephanie L. deWaard, Torbjørn Ekrem, Hosam O. El-Ansary, Fidèle Evouna Ondo, David Fraser, Matthias F. Geiger, Mehrdad Hajibabaei, Winnie Hallwachs, Priscila E. Hanisch, Axel Hausmann, Mark Heath, Ian D. Hogg, Daniel H. Janzen, Margaret Kinnaird, Joshua R. Kohn, Maxim Larrivée, David C. Lees, Virginia León-Règagnon, Michael Liddell, Darío A. Lijtmaer, Tatsiana Lipinskaya, Sean A. Locke, Ramya Manjunath, Dino J. Martins, Marlúcia B. Martins, Santosh Mazumdar, Jaclyn T. A. McKeown, Kristina Anderson-Teixeria, Scott E. Miller, Megan A. Milton, Renee Miskie, Jérôme Morinière, Marko Mutanen, Suresh Naik, Becky Nichols, Felipe A. Noguera, Vojtech Novotny, Lyubomir Penev, Mikko Pentinsaari, Jenna Quinn, Leah Ramsay, Regina Rochefort, Stefan Schmidt, M. Alex Smith, Crystal N. Sobel, Panu Somervuo, Jayme E. Sones, Hermann S. Staude, Brianne St. Jaques, Elisabeth Stur, Angela C. Telfer, Pablo L. Tubaro, Tim J. Wardlaw, Robyn Worcester, Zhaofu Yang, Monica R. Young, Tyler Zemlak, Evgeny V. Zakharov, Bradley Zlotnick, Otso Ovaskainen, and Paul D. N. Hebert
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Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 - Abstract
Abstract Global biodiversity gradients are generally expected to reflect greater species replacement closer to the equator. However, empirical validation of global biodiversity gradients largely relies on vertebrates, plants, and other less diverse taxa. Here we assess the temporal and spatial dynamics of global arthropod biodiversity dynamics using a beta-diversity framework. Sampling includes 129 sampling sites whereby malaise traps are deployed to monitor temporal changes in arthropod communities. Overall, we encountered more than 150,000 unique barcode index numbers (BINs) (i.e. species proxies). We assess between site differences in community diversity using beta-diversity and the partitioned components of species replacement and richness difference. Global total beta-diversity (dissimilarity) increases with decreasing latitude, greater spatial distance and greater temporal distance. Species replacement and richness difference patterns vary across biogeographic regions. Our findings support long-standing, general expectations of global biodiversity patterns. However, we also show that the underlying processes driving patterns may be regionally linked.
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- 2024
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10. Cancer diagnosis after emergency presentations in people with mental health and substance use conditions: a national cohort study
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Ruth Cunningham, James Stanley, Fiona Imlach, Tracy Haitana, Helen Lockett, Susanna Every-Palmer, Mau Te Rangimarie Clark, Cameron Lacey, Kendra Telfer, and Debbie Peterson
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Cancer ,Mental health and substance use disorders ,Emergency presentation ,Health disparities ,Lung neoplasms ,Colorectal neoplasms ,Neoplasms. Tumors. Oncology. Including cancer and carcinogens ,RC254-282 - Abstract
Abstract Background Cancer survival and mortality outcomes for people with mental health and substance use conditions (MHSUC) are worse than for people without MHSUC, which may be partly explained by poorer access to timely and appropriate healthcare, from screening and diagnosis through to treatment and follow-up. Access and quality of healthcare can be evaluated by comparing the proportion of people who receive a cancer diagnosis following an acute or emergency hospital admission (emergency presentation) across different population groups: those diagnosed with cancer following an emergency presentation have lower survival. Methods National mental health service use datasets (2002–2018) were linked to national cancer registry and hospitalisation data (2006–2018), to create a study population of people aged 15 years and older with one of four cancer diagnoses: lung, prostate, breast and colorectal. The exposure group included people with a history of mental health/addiction service contact within the five years before cancer diagnosis, with a subgroup of people with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or psychotic disorders. Marginal standardised rates were used to compare emergency presentations (hospital admission within 30 days of cancer diagnosis) in the exposure and comparison groups, adjusted for age, gender (for lung and colorectal cancers), ethnicity, area deprivation and stage at diagnosis. Results For all four cancers, the rates of emergency presentation in the fully adjusted models were significantly higher in people with a history of mental health/addiction service use than people without (lung cancer, RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.13, 1.24; prostate cancer RR 1.69, 95% CI 1.44, 1.93; breast cancer RR 1.42, 95% CI 1.14, 1.69; colorectal cancer 1.31, 95% CI 1.22, 1.39). Rates were substantially higher in those with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders. Conclusions Implementing pathways for earlier detection and diagnosis of cancers in people with MHSUC could reduce the rates of emergency presentation, with improved cancer survival outcomes. All health services, including cancer screening programmes, primary and secondary care, have a responsibility to ensure equitable access to healthcare for people with MHSUC.
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- 2024
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11. Generating evidence to inform responsive and effective actions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescent health and well-being: a mix method protocol for evidence integration ‘the Roadmap Project’
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Alex Brown, Peter Azzopardi, Jaameeta Kurji, Karla Canuto, Rachel Reilly, Seth Westhead, Odette Pearson, Daniel McDonough, Salenna Elliott, India Shackleford, Brittney Andrews, Felicity Andrews, Sally Cooke, Mahlia Garay, Thomas Harrington, Corey Kennedy, Jaeda Lenoy, Monique Maclaine, Hannah McCleary, Lorraine Randall, Hamish Rose, Daniel Rosendale, Jakirah Telfer, Tina Brodie, and James Charles
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Medicine - Abstract
Background Australia does not have a national strategy for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescent health and as a result, policy and programming actions are fragmented and may not be responsive to needs. Efforts to date have also rarely engaged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in co-designing solutions. The Roadmap Project aims to work in partnership with young people to define priority areas of health and well-being need and establish the corresponding developmentally appropriate, evidence-based actions.Methods and analysis All aspects of this project are governed by a group of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people. Needs, determinants and corresponding responses will be explored with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescents (aged 10–24 years) across Australia through an online qualitative survey, interviews and focus group discussions. Parents, service providers and policy makers (stakeholders) will share their perspectives on needs and support required through interviews. Data generated will be co-analysed with the governance group and integrated with population health data, policy frameworks and evidence of effective programmes (established through reviews) to define responsive and effective actions for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adolescent health and well-being.Ethics and dissemination Ethical approval for this study has been obtained from the Aboriginal Health Council of South Australia (Ref: 04-21-956), the Aboriginal Health and Medical Research Council of New South Wales (Ref: 1918/22), the Western Australian Aboriginal Health Ethics Committee (Ref: HREC1147), the Northern Territory Health and Menzies School of Health Research (Ref: 2022–4371), ACT Health Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref: 2022.ETH.00133), the St. Vincent’s Hospital, Victoria (Ref: HREC 129/22), University of Tasmania (Ref: 28020), Far North Queensland Human Research Ethics Committee (Ref: HREC/2023/QCH/89911) and Griffith University (Ref: 2023/135). Prospective adolescent participants will provide their own consent for the online survey (aged 13–24 years) and, interviews or focus group discussions (aged 15–24 years); with parental consent and adolescent assent required for younger adolescents (aged 10–14 years) participating in interviews.Study findings (priority needs and evidence-based responses) will be presented at a series of co-design workshops with adolescents and stakeholders from relevant sectors. We will also communicate findings through reports, multimedia clips and peer-reviewed publications as directed by the governance group.
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- 2024
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12. Response to ′Is the Displacement of People from Parks only ′Purported′ or is it Real?′ (Schmidt-Soltau 2009)
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Curran Bryan, Sunderland Terry, Maisels Fiona, Asaha Stella, Balinga Michael, Defo Louis, Dunn Andrew, Loebenstein Karin, Oates John, Roth Philipp, Telfer Paul, and Usongo Leonard
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Ecology ,QH540-549.5 - Published
- 2010
13. Are Central Africa′s Protected Areas Displacing Hundreds of Thousands of Rural Poor?
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Curran Bryan, Sunderland Terry, Maisels Fiona, Oates John, Asaha Stella, Balinga Michael, Defo Louis, Dunn Andrew, Telfer Paul, Usongo Leonard, Loebenstein Karin, and Roth Philipp
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biodiversity conservation ,Central Africa ,displacement ,protected areas ,Ecology ,QH540-549.5 - Abstract
An ongoing debate over the impacts of protected areas on rural communities in central Africa has become increasingly polarized in recent years, even as definitions of displacement have shifted from outright expulsion to economic dislocation precipitated by lost access to natural resources. Although forcible removal of communities to make way for the creation of National Parks has certainly occurred in the past in some parts of the world, we contend that not a single individual has been physically removed from any of the protected areas created in central Africa over the past decade, despite claims to the contrary of hundreds of thousands of "conservation refugees." Furthermore, we recognize that a scarcity of data precludes impartial evaluation of the potential impacts of economic displacement of local communities living adjacent to protected areas, and we call for a concerted effort by conservationists and the social scientists who criticize conservation efforts, in order to measure the effects of protected areas on livelihoods, and to work towards a more socially responsible conservation paradigm.
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- 2009
14. Hetero-interpenetrated metal–organic frameworks
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Perl, David, Lee, Seok J., Ferguson, Alan, Jameson, Geoffrey B., and Telfer, Shane G.
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- 2023
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15. Clinical pregnancy in Turner syndrome following re-implantation of cryopreserved ovarian cortex
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Dunlop, CE, Jack, SA, Telfer, EE, Zahra, S., and Anderson, RA
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- 2023
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16. Evolution of the ToxB Gene in Pyrenophora tritici-repentis and Related Species
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Mohamed Hafez, Ryan Gourlie, Megan McDonald, Melissa Telfer, Marcelo A. Carmona, Francisco J. Sautua, Caroline S. Moffat, Paula M. Moolhuijzen, Pao Theen See, and Reem Aboukhaddour
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haplotypes ,host-selective toxins ,necrotrophic fungal pathogens ,retrotransposons ,tan spot ,toxb homolog ,Microbiology ,QR1-502 ,Botany ,QK1-989 - Abstract
Pyrenophora tritici-repentis (tan spot) is a destructive foliar pathogen of wheat with global impact. This ascomycete fungus possesses a highly plastic open pangenome shaped by the gain and loss of effector genes. This study investigated the allelic variations in the chlorosis-encoding gene ToxB across 422 isolates representing all identified pathotypes and worldwide origins. To gain better insights into ToxB evolution, we examined its presence and variability in other Pyrenophora spp. A ToxB haplotype network was constructed, revealing the evolutionary relationships of this gene (20 haplotypes) across four Pyrenophora species. Notably, toxb, the homolog of ToxB, was detected for the first time in the barley pathogen Pyrenophora teres. The ToxB/toxb genes display evidence of selection that is characterized by loss of function, duplication, and diverse mutations. Within the ToxB/toxb open reading frame, 72 mutations were identified, including 14 synonymous, 55 nonsynonymous, and 3 indel mutations. Remarkably, a, ∼5.6-kb Copia-like retrotransposon, named Copia-1_Ptr, was found inserted in the toxb gene of a race 3 isolate. This insert disrupted the ToxB gene's function, a first case of effector gene disruption by a transposable element in P. tritici-repentis. Additionally, a microsatellite with 25 nucleotide repeats (0 to 10) in the upstream region of ToxB suggested a potential mechanism influencing ToxB expression and regulation. Exploring ToxB-like protein distribution in other ascomycetes revealed the presence of ToxB-like proteins in 19 additional species, including the Leotiomycetes class for the first time. The presence/absence pattern of ToxB-like proteins defied species relatedness compared with a phylogenetic tree, suggesting a past horizontal gene transfer event during the evolution of the ToxB gene. [Graphic: see text] Copyright © 2024 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food. This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license.
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- 2024
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17. The bii4africa dataset of faunal and floral population intactness estimates across Africa’s major land uses
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Hayley S. Clements, Emmanuel Do Linh San, Gareth Hempson, Birthe Linden, Bryan Maritz, Ara Monadjem, Chevonne Reynolds, Frances Siebert, Nicola Stevens, Reinette Biggs, Alta De Vos, Ryan Blanchard, Matthew Child, Karen J. Esler, Maike Hamann, Ty Loft, Belinda Reyers, Odirilwe Selomane, Andrew L. Skowno, Tshegofatso Tshoke, Diarrassouba Abdoulaye, Thierry Aebischer, Jesús Aguirre-Gutiérrez, Graham J. Alexander, Abdullahi H. Ali, David G. Allan, Esther E. Amoako, Samuel Angedakin, Edward Aruna, Nico L. Avenant, Gabriel Badjedjea, Adama Bakayoko, Abraham Bamba-kaya, Michael F. Bates, Paul J. J. Bates, Steven R. Belmain, Emily Bennitt, James Bradley, Chris A. Brewster, Michael B. Brown, Michelle Brown, Josef Bryja, Thomas M. Butynski, Filipe Carvalho, Alan Channing, Colin A. Chapman, Callan Cohen, Marina Cords, Jennifer D. Cramer, Nadine Cronk, Pamela M. K. Cunneyworth, Fredrik Dalerum, Emmanuel Danquah, Harriet T. Davies-Mostert, Andrew D. de Blocq, Yvonne A. De Jong, Terrence C. Demos, Christiane Denys, Chabi A. M. S. Djagoun, Thomas M. Doherty-Bone, Marine Drouilly, Johan T. du Toit, David A. Ehlers Smith, Yvette C. Ehlers Smith, Seth J. Eiseb, Peter J. Fashing, Adam W. Ferguson, José M. Fernández-García, Manfred Finckh, Claude Fischer, Edson Gandiwa, Philippe Gaubert, Jerome Y. Gaugris, Dalton J. Gibbs, Jason S. Gilchrist, Jose M. Gil-Sánchez, Anthony N. Githitho, Peter S. Goodman, Laurent Granjon, J. Paul Grobler, Bonginkosi C. Gumbi, Vaclav Gvozdik, James Harvey, Morgan Hauptfleisch, Firas Hayder, Emmanuel M. Hema, Marna Herbst, Mariano Houngbédji, Brian J. Huntley, Rainer Hutterer, Samuel T. Ivande, Kate Jackson, Gregory F. M. Jongsma, Javier Juste, Blaise Kadjo, Prince K. Kaleme, Edwin Kamugisha, Beth A. Kaplin, Humphrey N. Kato, Christian Kiffner, Duncan M. Kimuyu, Robert M. Kityo, N’goran G. Kouamé, Marcel Kouete T, Aliza le Roux, Alan T. K. Lee, Mervyn C. Lötter, Anne Mette Lykke, Duncan N. MacFadyen, Gacheru P. Macharia, Zimkitha J. K. Madikiza, Themb’alilahlwa A. M. Mahlaba, David Mallon, Mnqobi L. Mamba, Claude Mande, Rob A. Marchant, Robin A. Maritz, Wanda Markotter, Trevor McIntyre, John Measey, Addisu Mekonnen, Paulina Meller, Haemish I. Melville, Kevin Z. Mganga, Michael G. L. Mills, Liaan Minnie, Alain Didier Missoup, Abubakr Mohammad, Nancy N. Moinde, Bakwo Fils E. Moise, Pedro Monterroso, Jennifer F. Moore, Simon Musila, Sedjro Gilles A. Nago, Maganizo W. Namoto, Fatimata Niang, Violaine Nicolas, Jerry B. Nkenku, Evans E. Nkrumah, Gonwouo L. Nono, Mulavwa M. Norbert, Katarzyna Nowak, Benneth C. Obitte, Arnold D. Okoni-Williams, Jonathan Onongo, M. Justin O’Riain, Samuel T. Osinubi, Daniel M. Parker, Francesca Parrini, Mike J. S. Peel, Johannes Penner, Darren W. Pietersen, Andrew J. Plumptre, Damian W. Ponsonby, Stefan Porembski, R. John Power, Frans G. T. Radloff, Ramugondo V. Rambau, Tharmalingam Ramesh, Leigh R. Richards, Mark-Oliver Rödel, Dominic P. Rollinson, Francesco Rovero, Mostafa A. Saleh, Ute Schmiedel, M. Corrie Schoeman, Paul Scholte, Thomas L. Serfass, Julie Teresa Shapiro, Sidney Shema, Stefan J. Siebert, Jasper A. Slingsby, Alexander Sliwa, Hanneline A. Smit-Robinson, Etotepe A. Sogbohossou, Michael J. Somers, Stephen Spawls, Jarryd P. Streicher, Lourens Swanepoel, Iroro Tanshi, Peter J. Taylor, William A. Taylor, Mariska te Beest, Paul T. Telfer, Dave I. Thompson, Elie Tobi, Krystal A. Tolley, Andrew A. Turner, Wayne Twine, Victor Van Cakenberghe, Frederik Van de Perre, Helga van der Merwe, Chris J. G. van Niekerk, Pieter C. V. van Wyk, Jan A. Venter, Luke Verburgt, Geraldine Veron, Susanne Vetter, Maria S. Vorontsova, Thomas C. Wagner, Paul W. Webala, Natalie Weber, Sina M. Weier, Paula A. White, Melissa A. Whitecross, Benjamin J. Wigley, Frank J. Willems, Christiaan W. Winterbach, and Galena M. Woodhouse
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Science - Abstract
Abstract Sub-Saharan Africa is under-represented in global biodiversity datasets, particularly regarding the impact of land use on species’ population abundances. Drawing on recent advances in expert elicitation to ensure data consistency, 200 experts were convened using a modified-Delphi process to estimate ‘intactness scores’: the remaining proportion of an ‘intact’ reference population of a species group in a particular land use, on a scale from 0 (no remaining individuals) to 1 (same abundance as the reference) and, in rare cases, to 2 (populations that thrive in human-modified landscapes). The resulting bii4africa dataset contains intactness scores representing terrestrial vertebrates (tetrapods: ±5,400 amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals) and vascular plants (±45,000 forbs, graminoids, trees, shrubs) in sub-Saharan Africa across the region’s major land uses (urban, cropland, rangeland, plantation, protected, etc.) and intensities (e.g., large-scale vs smallholder cropland). This dataset was co-produced as part of the Biodiversity Intactness Index for Africa Project. Additional uses include assessing ecosystem condition; rectifying geographic/taxonomic biases in global biodiversity indicators and maps; and informing the Red List of Ecosystems.
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- 2024
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18. Canadians’ knowledge of cancer risk factors and belief in cancer myths
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Rydz E, Telfer J, Quinn EK, Fazel SS, Holmes E, Pennycook G, and Peters CE
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Cancer ,Cancer beliefs ,Cancer myths ,Cancer misinformation ,Awareness ,Thinking disposition ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Many untrue statements about cancer prevention and risks are circulating. The objective of this study was to assess Canadians’ awareness of known cancer risk factors and cancer myths (untruths or statements that are not completely true), and to explore how awareness may vary by sociodemographic and cognitive factors. Methods Cancer myths were identified by conducting scans of published, grey literature, and social media. Intuitive-analytic thinking disposition scores included were actively open- and close-minded thinking, as well as preference for intuitive and effortful thinking. A survey was administered online to participants aged 18 years and older through Prolific. Results were summarized descriptively and analyzed using chi-square tests, as well as Spearman rank and Pearson correlations. Results Responses from 734 Canadians were received. Participants were better at identifying known cancer risk factors (70% of known risks) compared to cancer myths (49%). Bivariate analyses showed differential awareness of known cancer risk factors (p 90% correctly identified), but recognition of other known risk factors was poor (as low as 23% for low vegetable and fruit intake). Mythical cancer risk factors with high support were consuming additives (61%), feeling stressed (52%), and consuming artificial sweeteners (49%). High uncertainty of causation was observed for glyphosate (66% neither agreed or disagreed). For factors that reduce cancer risk, reasonable awareness was observed for HPV vaccination (60%), but there was a high prevalence in cancer myths, particularly that consuming antioxidants (65%) and organic foods (45%) are protective, and some uncertainty whether drinking red wine (41%), consuming vitamins (32%), and smoking cannabis (30%) reduces cancer risk. Conclusions While Canadians were able to identify tobacco-related cancer risk factors, many myths were believed and numerous risk factors were not recognized. Cancer myths can be harmful in themselves and can detract the public’s attention from and action on established risk factors.
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- 2024
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19. Feedback and focus: Exploring post-secondary students’ perceptions of feedback, mindfulness, and stress
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Cecilia S. Dong, Erin Isings, Samantha M. Jones, Hugh Samson, Lisa McCorquodale, Thomas G. W. Telfer, Tracey Ropp, and Christine E. Bell
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Feedback ,mindfulness ,stress ,learning ,post-secondary students ,Stephen Darwin, Universidad Alberto Hurtado, Chile ,Education (General) ,L7-991 - Abstract
AbstractAddressing feedback-associated stress as a barrier to learning is increasingly relevant to student success and well-being. Mindfulness practices support stress management for students during the academic feedback process. Even if students receive high-quality feedback, the receiving end of feedback can be stressful, perhaps raising feelings of anxiety, confusion, or inadequacy. Feedback literacy and mindfulness practices complement one another. Mindfulness can potentially support feedback literacy by focusing one’s attention on the tasks needed to address feedback, instead of being distracted by emotions triggered by feedback. This study, comprised of an online survey (n = 237) and focus groups (n = 6), assesses post-secondary students’ perceptions concerning feedback literacy, mindfulness, and stress, and their thoughts about digital mindfulness tools intended to support students experiencing feedback-associated stress. Recruitment of students was from courses in Health Sciences, Medical Sciences, Media Studies, and Law. The survey data demonstrate that students with greater mindfulness have significantly greater feedback literacy as well as lower stress. Focus group data shows that a broad range of affective and behavioral responses are shaped by students’ perceptions of their abilities, circumstances, and feedback itself. Although students expressed familiarity with mindfulness practices, few considered explicitly linking mindfulness to their feedback process. Nevertheless, students expressed interest regarding the development of digital mindfulness tools to alleviate feedback-associated stress and offered recommendations for implementation.
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- 2024
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20. Heavy metal contamination of the sea cucumber Holothuria poli cultured in integrated multi-trophic aquaculture in a multi-use coastal area
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Karl Cutajar, Lynne Falconer, and Trevor C. Telfer
- Subjects
Sea cucumber ,IMTA ,Heavy metals, contaminant transfer ,Bioaccumulation ,Aquaculture. Fisheries. Angling ,SH1-691 - Abstract
The accumulation of heavy metals in the edible tissue of the white spot sea cucumber, Holothuria poli, revealed the transfer of metal contaminants to sea cucumbers when produced below fish cages in a Mediterranean port area. Sea cucumbers were cultured on the seafloor directly below a fish cage at 0 m, then at 10 m and at 25 m away from the cage, as part of an open-water integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) system, and then at a reference site over 1 km from the fish farm, over a one-year period. At the end of the study, sea cucumbers and seafloor sediments were sampled from the IMTA sites near the fish cages, except at 0 m due to mass sea cucumber mortalities within the first month of the study, and again at the reference site. The concentrations of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), chromium (Cr), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn) were significantly higher in sediments near fish cages than the reference site. Localised enrichment from marine aquaculture could explain the significant concentration of metals in sediments below fish cages that are typically ascribed to their use in aquaculture. Arsenic (As), lead (Pb) and mercury (Hg), which are not associated with commercial fish diets, did not vary between sites. Concentrations of iron (Fe), which is available in commercial diets, were similar near fish cages and at the reference site. The body wall/muscle tissue of the sea cucumber. H. poli revealed high concentrations of the essential metals Fe and Zn near fish cages and in natural sediments at the reference site. H. poli can regulate these essential metals that characterised the edible tissue of the sea cucumbers. Non-essential metals like Hg and Cd had the lowest concentrations of all analysed metals in the sea cucumber tissue. However, the bioaccumulation of toxic metals, Hg and As, reveal the bioavailability of these contaminants in sediments and the propensity of bottom-dwelling sea cucumbers to bioconcentrate these metals, when cultured under a commercial fish cage in IMTA and elsewhere in natural sediments in this industrial environment. Holothuria poli did not exhibit bioaccumulation of Cu, Cr, Fe, Ni, Pb and Zn in its body wall/muscle tissue. The bioaccumulation of Hg and As reveal the need to account for the potential effects of farm-level variability throughout longer production cycles and bay-wide dynamics on sediment contamination and bioaccumulation in sea cucumbers until harvest. Site-specific dynamics in ports, whether natural or anthropogenic, can be expected to influence bioaccumulation of metal contaminants and therefore require long-term and fine resolution monitoring for better representation in open-water IMTA production.
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- 2024
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21. Exploring alternative education: a comparison on 3 levels—Waldorf charters, non-Waldorf charters, and local public schools, as measured by the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress
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Kimberly Telfer-Radzat
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Waldorf education ,CAASPP ,charter schools ,testing outcomes ,holistic education ,Education (General) ,L7-991 - Abstract
As the number of students enrolled in charter schools grows across the country, so do questions about their impact on academic outcomes (National Center for Educational Statistics). Given the importance of student test scores as evidence of success at the state, school, classroom, and teacher levels, understanding the effect of these charter schools' pedagogies on student outcomes is critical. Waldorf-inspired charter schools are one such growing alternative pedagogy. This study answers the question: Is there any significant difference between the levels of achievement for students in English Language Arts and math who are enrolled in Waldorf-inspired charter schools vs. those in either local public school classrooms or other charter classrooms that do not use the Waldorf pedagogy? Using OLS multiple linear regression this study examined the significance of the levels of achievement in English Language Arts (ELA) and math among students in 16 Waldorf-inspired charter schools and other charter and non-charter schools in California, using the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) scores. The research revealed that there are significantly higher percentages of eighth-grade students in Waldorf-inspired charter schools meeting or exceeding state standards in ELA and math as compared to their non-Waldorf charter school comparison groups, even when controlling for the size of the school, socioeconomic status, and district-level fixed effects (p < 0.01). This is despite the significantly smaller percentage of students in these schools meeting state standards in grades three through five. The results of this study suggest that Waldorf's developmental approach to education can result in strong academic outcomes despite a slower, low-stakes approach to teaching.
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- 2024
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22. The genome sequence of a false flower beetle, Anaspis maculata (Geoffroy in Fourcroy, 1785) [version 1; peer review: 2 approved, 1 approved with reservations]
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Mark G. Telfer, Dominic Phillips, and Maxwell V. L. Barclay
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Anaspis maculata ,false flower beetle ,genome sequence ,chromosomal ,Coleoptera ,eng ,Medicine ,Science - Abstract
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Anaspis maculata (false flower beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Scraptiidae). The genome sequence is 757.8 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 8 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.31 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 21,965 protein coding genes.
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- 2024
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23. pressuRe: an R package for analyzing and visualizing biomechanical pressure distribution data
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Scott Telfer and Ellen Y. Li
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Medicine ,Science - Abstract
Abstract In many biomechanical analyses, the forces acting on a body during dynamic and static activities are often simplified as point loads. However, it is usually more accurate to characterize these forces as distributed loads, varying in magnitude and direction, over a given contact area. Evaluating these pressure distributions while they are applied to different parts of the body can provide effective insights for clinicians and researchers when studying health and disease conditions, for example when investigating the biomechanical factors that may lead to plantar ulceration in diabetic foot disease. At present, most processing and analysis for pressure data is performed using proprietary software, limiting reproducibility, transparency, and consistency across different studies. This paper describes an open-source software package, ‘pressuRe’, which is built in the freely available R statistical computing environment and is designed to process, analyze, and visualize pressure data collected on a range of different hardware systems in a standardized manner. We demonstrate the use of the package on pressure dataset from patients with diabetic foot disease, comparing pressure variables between those with longer and shorter durations of the disease. The results matched closely with those from commercially available software, and individuals with longer duration of diabetes were found to have higher forefoot pressures than those with shorter duration. By utilizing R’s powerful and openly available tools for statistical analysis and user customization, this package may be a useful tool for researchers and clinicians studying plantar pressures and other pressure sensor array based biomechanical measurements. With regular updates intended, this package allows for continued improvement and we welcome feedback and future contributions to extend its scope. In this article, we detail the package’s features and functionality.
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- 2023
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24. PARP14 inhibition restores PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor response following IFNγ-driven acquired resistance in preclinical cancer models
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Wong, Chun Wai, Evangelou, Christos, Sefton, Kieran N., Leshem, Rotem, Zhang, Wei, Gopalan, Vishaka, Chattrakarn, Sorayut, Fernandez Carro, Macarena Lucia, Uzuner, Erez, Mole, Holly, Wilcock, Daniel J., Smith, Michael P., Sergiou, Kleita, Telfer, Brian A., Isaac, Dervla T., Liu, Chang, Perl, Nicholas R., Marie, Kerrie, Lorigan, Paul, Williams, Kaye J., Rao, Patricia E., Nagaraju, Raghavendar T., Niepel, Mario, and Hurlstone, Adam F. L.
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- 2023
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25. pressuRe: an R package for analyzing and visualizing biomechanical pressure distribution data
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Telfer, Scott and Li, Ellen Y.
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- 2023
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26. Development, acceptability and feasibility of a personalised, behavioural intervention to prevent bacterial skin and soft tissue infections among people who inject drugs: a mixed-methods Person-Based Approach study
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Kesten, Joanna, Hussey, Deborah, Lord, Catherine, Roberts, Leonie, Bayliss, James, Erswell, Helen, Preston, Andrew, Telfer, Maggie, Scott, Jenny, Harris, Magdalena, Mellon, Dominic, Hickman, Matthew, MacArthur, Georgie, and Fisher, Harriet
- Published
- 2023
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27. Direct correction of haemoglobin E β-thalassaemia using base editors
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Badat, Mohsin, Ejaz, Ayesha, Hua, Peng, Rice, Siobhan, Zhang, Weijiao, Hentges, Lance D., Fisher, Christopher A., Denny, Nicholas, Schwessinger, Ron, Yasara, Nirmani, Roy, Noemi B. A., Issa, Fadi, Roy, Andi, Telfer, Paul, Hughes, Jim, Mettananda, Sachith, Higgs, Douglas R., and Davies, James O. J.
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- 2023
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28. The genome sequence of the hawthorn leaf beetle, Lochmaea crataegi (Forster, 1771) [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]
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Mark G. Telfer, Hermes E. Escalona, and Liam M. Crowley
- Subjects
Lochmaea crataegi ,hawthorn leaf beetle ,genome sequence ,chromosomal ,Coleoptera ,eng ,Medicine ,Science - Abstract
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Lochmaea crataegi (the hawthorn leaf beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Chrysomelidae). The genome sequence is 891.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 16 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X and Y sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 18.32 kilobases in length.
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- 2024
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29. The genome sequence of a metallic wood-boring beetle, Agrilus cyanescens (Ratzeburg, 1837) [version 1; peer review: 2 approved, 1 not approved]
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Mark G. Telfer and Dominic Phillips
- Subjects
Agrilus cyanescens ,metallic wood-boring beetle ,genome sequence ,chromosomal ,Coleoptera ,eng ,Medicine ,Science - Abstract
We present a genome assembly from an individual female Agrilus cyanescens (metallic wood-boring beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Buprestidae). The genome sequence is 292.3 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into 10 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.91 kilobases in length.
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- 2024
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30. Real-world waste dispersion modelling for benthic integrated multi-trophic aquaculture.
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Karl Cutajar, Lynne Falconer, Angus Sharman, and Trevor C Telfer
- Subjects
Medicine ,Science - Abstract
In real-world situations, marine fish farms accommodate multiple fish species and cohorts within the farm, leading to diverse farm layouts influenced by cage dimensions, configurations, and intricate arrangements. These cage management practices are essential to meet production demands, however, farm-level complexities can impact model predictions of waste deposition and benthic impact near fish cages. This is of particular importance when the cages are used for integrated multi-trophic aquaculture (IMTA) with benthic feeders, where this waste not only affects environmental conditions but also provides a potential food source. The Cage Aquaculture Particulate Output and Transport (CAPOT) model incorporated multiple species, cohorts, and cage arrangements to estimate waste distribution from a commercial fish farm in the Mediterranean between October 2018 and July 2019. This spreadsheet model estimated dispersion for individual fish cages using a grid resolution of 5 m x 5 m. The study categorized discrete production periods for each fish cage every month, aligning with intermittent changes in biomass and food inputs due to different cage management practices throughout production. This approach facilitated the use of detailed input data and enhanced model representativeness by considering variations in cage biomass, food types, settling velocities, and configurations. Model outputs, represented in contour plots, indicated higher deposition directly below fish cages that varied monthly throughout fish production cycles. Deposition footprints reflected changes in cage biomass, food inputs, and farm-level practices reflecting this real-world scenario where aquaculture does not follow a production continuum. Moreover, cohort dynamics and cage movements associated with the cage management practices of the fish farm influenced the quantity and fate of wastes distributed around fish cages, revealing variability in deposition footprints. Clearly, these findings have important implications for the design of benthic IMTA systems, with species such as sea cucumber and polychaetes. Variability in waste deposition creates challenges in identifying where the benthic organisms should be placed to allow optimal uptake of waste to meet their food requirements and increase survivability. Evidently, models have an important role to play and this study emphasizes the need for representative input data to describe actual food inputs, cage biomass changes, and management practices for more representative farm-scale modelling and essentially to improve particulate waste management. To effectively mitigate benthic impacts through IMTA, models must quantify and resolve particulate waste distribution and impact around fish farms to maintain a balanced system with net removal of wastes. Resolving farm-level complexities provides vital information about the variability of food availability and quality for extractive organisms that helps improve recycling of organic wastes in integrated systems, demanding a more representative modelling approach.
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- 2024
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31. P541: Development of a provincial genetics program in Ontario
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Kathleen Bell, Raymond Kim, Aaron Pollett, Wilson Yu, Syed Ahmed, Muna Aden, Rae Brager, June Carroll, Melissa Carter, Dervla Connaughton, James Dowling, Angela Du, Hanna Faghfoury, Harriet Feilotter, Elaine Goh, Andrea Guerin, Jennifer Hart, Ivy Haw, Rachel Healey, Richard Kim, Goran Klaric, Kaitlyn Lemay, Jerom Nguyen, Luis Peña, Erin Redwood, Julie Richer, Mary Schmitz, Julia Su, and Frank Telfer
- Subjects
Genetics ,QH426-470 ,Medicine - Published
- 2024
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32. P544: Developing a health human resource funding and clinical oversight model for genetic services: The Ontario approach
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Frank Telfer, Rachel Healey, Kathleen Bell, Kaitlyn Lamay, Wilson Yu, Huma Tariq, Julia Monakova, and Judith Wong
- Subjects
Genetics ,QH426-470 ,Medicine - Published
- 2024
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33. Effect of second booster vaccinations and prior infection against SARS-CoV-2 in the UK SIREN healthcare worker cohortResearch in context
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Peter D. Kirwan, Victoria J. Hall, Sarah Foulkes, Ashley D. Otter, Katie Munro, Dominic Sparkes, Anna Howells, Naomi Platt, Jonathan Broad, David Crossman, Chris Norman, Diane Corrigan, Christopher H. Jackson, Michelle Cole, Colin S. Brown, Ana Atti, Jasmin Islam, Anne M. Presanis, Andre Charlett, Daniela De Angelis, Susan Hopkins, Tracy Lewis, Steve Bain, Rebeccah Thomas, John Geen, Carla Pothecary, Sean Cutler, John Northfield, Cathy Price, Johanne Tomlinson, Sarah Knight, Emily Macnaughton, Ekaterina Watson, Rajeka Lazarus, Aaran Sinclair, Joanne Galliford, Bridgett Masunda, Tabitha Mahungu, Alison Rodger, Esther Hanison, Simon Warren, Swati Jain, Mariyam Mirfenderesky, Natasha Mahabir, Rowan Pritchard-Jones, Diane Wycherley, Claire Gabriel, Elijah Matovu, Philippa Bakker, Simantee Guha, S. Gormley, James Pethick, Georgina Butt, Stacey Pepper, Luke Bedford, Paul Ridley, Jane Democratis, Manjula Meda, Anu Chawla, Fran Westwell, Nagesh Kalakonda, Sheena Khanduri, Allison Doel, Sumita Pai, Christian Hacon, Davis Nwaka, Veronica Mendez Moro, A. Moody, Cressida Auckland, Stephanie Prince, Thushan de Silva, Helen Shulver, A. Shah, C. Jones, Banerjee Subhro-Osuji, Angela Houston, Tim Planche, Martin Booth, Christopher Duff, Jonnie Aeron-Thomas, Ray Chaudhuri, David Hilton, Hannah Jory, Zehra'a Al-Khafaji, Philippa Kemsley, Ruth Longfellow, David Boss, Simon Brake, Louise Coke, Ngozi Elumogo, Scott Latham, Chinari Subudhi, Ina Hoad, Claire Thomas, Nihil Chitalia, Tracy Edmunds, Helen Ashby, John Elliott, Beverley Wilkinson, Abby Rand, Catherine Thompson, K. Agwuh, Anna Grice, Kelly Moran, Vijayendra Waykar, Yvonne Lester, Lauren Sach, Kathryn Court, Nikki White, Clair Favager, Kyra Holliday, Jayne Harwood, Brendan Payne, Karen Burns, Lynda Fothergill, Alejandro Arenas-Pinto, Abigail Severn, Kerryanne Brown, Katherine Gray, Jane Dare, Qi Zheng, Kathryn Hollinshead, Robert Shorten, Alun Roebuck, Christopher Holmes, Martin Wiselka, Barzo Faris, Liane Marsh, Clare McAdam, Lisa Ditchfield, Zaman Qazzafi, G. Boyd, N. Wong, Sarah Brand, Jack Squires, John Ashcroft, Ismaelette Del Rosario, Joanne Howard, Emma Ward, Gemma Harrison, Joely Morgan, Claire Corless, Ruth Penn, Nick Wong, Manny Bagary, Nadezda Starkova, Mandy Beekes, Mandy Carnahan, Shivani Khan, Shekoo Mackay, Keneisha Lewis, Graham Pickard, Joy Dawson, Lauren Finlayson, Euan Cameron, Anne Todd, Sebastien Fagegaltier, Sally Mavin, Alexandra Cochrane, Andrew Gibson, Sam Donaldson, Kate Templeton, Martin Malcolm, Beth Smith, Devesh Dhasmana, Susan Fowler, Antonia Ho, Michael Murphy, Claire Beith, Manish Patel, Elizabeth Boyd, Val Irvine, Alison Grant, Rebecca Temple-Purcell, Clodagh Loughrey, Elinor Hanna, Frances Johnston, Angel Boulos, Fiona Thompson, Yuri Protaschik, Susan Regan, Tracy Donaghy, Maurice O'Kane, Omolola Akinbami, Paola Barbero, Tim Brooks, Meera Chand, Ferdinando Insalata, Palak Joshi, Anne-Marie O'Connell, Mary Ramsay, Ayoub Saei, Maria Zambon, Ezra Linley, Simon Tonge, Enemona Adaji, Omoyeni Adebiyi, Nick Andrews, Joanna Conneely, Paul Conneely, Angela Dunne, Simone Dyer, Hannah Emmett, Nipunadi Hettiarachchi, Nishanthan Kapirial, Jameel Khawam, Edward Monk, Sophie Russell, Andrew Taylor-Kerr, Jean Timeyin, Silvia D'Arcangelo, Cathy Rowe, Amanda Semper, Eileen Gallagher, Robert Kyffin, Lisa Cromey, Desmond Areghan, Jennifer Bishop, Melanie Dembinsky, Laura Dobbie, Josie Evans, David Goldberg, Lynne Haahr, Annelysse Jorgenson, Ayodeji Matuluko, Laura Naismith, Desy Nuryunarsih, Alexander Olaoye, Caitlin Plank, Lesley Price, Nicole Sergenson, Sally Stewart, Andrew Telfer, Jennifer Weir, Ellen De Lacy, Yvette Ellis, Susannah Froude, Guy Stevens, Linda Tyson, Susanna Dunachie, Paul Klenerman, Chris Duncan, Rebecca Payne, Lance Turtle, Alex Richter, Thushan De Silva, Eleanor Barnes, Daniel Wootton, Oliver Galgut, Jonathan Heeney, Helen Baxendale, Javier Castillo-Olivares, Rupert Beale, Edward Carr, Wendy Barclay, Maya Moshe, Massimo Palmarini, Brian Willett, John Kenneth Baillie, Jennie Evans, and Erika Aquino
- Subjects
SARS-CoV-2 ,Vaccine effectiveness ,Asymptomatic ,Symptomatic ,Healthcare worker ,Cohort study ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Summary: Background: The protection of fourth dose mRNA vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 is relevant to current global policy decisions regarding ongoing booster roll-out. We aimed to estimate the effect of fourth dose vaccination, prior infection, and duration of PCR positivity in a highly-vaccinated and largely prior-COVID-19 infected cohort of UK healthcare workers. Methods: Participants underwent fortnightly PCR and regular antibody testing for SARS-CoV-2 and completed symptoms questionnaires. A multi-state model was used to estimate vaccine effectiveness (VE) against infection from a fourth dose compared to a waned third dose, with protection from prior infection and duration of PCR positivity jointly estimated. Findings: 1298 infections were detected among 9560 individuals under active follow-up between September 2022 and March 2023. Compared to a waned third dose, fourth dose VE was 13.1% (95% CI 0.9 to 23.8) overall; 24.0% (95% CI 8.5 to 36.8) in the first 2 months post-vaccination, reducing to 10.3% (95% CI −11.4 to 27.8) and 1.7% (95% CI −17.0 to 17.4) at 2–4 and 4–6 months, respectively. Relative to an infection >2 years ago and controlling for vaccination, 63.6% (95% CI 46.9 to 75.0) and 29.1% (95% CI 3.8 to 43.1) greater protection against infection was estimated for an infection within the past 0–6, and 6–12 months, respectively. A fourth dose was associated with greater protection against asymptomatic infection than symptomatic infection, whilst prior infection independently provided more protection against symptomatic infection, particularly if the infection had occurred within the previous 6 months. Duration of PCR positivity was significantly lower for asymptomatic compared to symptomatic infection. Interpretation: Despite rapid waning of protection, vaccine boosters remain an important tool in responding to the dynamic COVID-19 landscape; boosting population immunity in advance of periods of anticipated pressure, such as surging infection rates or emerging variants of concern. Funding: UK Health Security Agency, Medical Research Council, NIHR HPRU Oxford, Bristol, and others.
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- 2024
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34. PARP14 inhibition restores PD-1 immune checkpoint inhibitor response following IFNγ-driven acquired resistance in preclinical cancer models
- Author
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Chun Wai Wong, Christos Evangelou, Kieran N. Sefton, Rotem Leshem, Wei Zhang, Vishaka Gopalan, Sorayut Chattrakarn, Macarena Lucia Fernandez Carro, Erez Uzuner, Holly Mole, Daniel J. Wilcock, Michael P. Smith, Kleita Sergiou, Brian A. Telfer, Dervla T. Isaac, Chang Liu, Nicholas R. Perl, Kerrie Marie, Paul Lorigan, Kaye J. Williams, Patricia E. Rao, Raghavendar T. Nagaraju, Mario Niepel, and Adam F. L. Hurlstone
- Subjects
Science - Abstract
Abstract Resistance mechanisms to immune checkpoint blockade therapy (ICBT) limit its response duration and magnitude. Paradoxically, Interferon γ (IFNγ), a key cytokine for cellular immunity, can promote ICBT resistance. Using syngeneic mouse tumour models, we confirm that chronic IFNγ exposure confers resistance to immunotherapy targeting PD-1 (α-PD-1) in immunocompetent female mice. We observe upregulation of poly-ADP ribosyl polymerase 14 (PARP14) in chronic IFNγ-treated cancer cell models, in patient melanoma with elevated IFNG expression, and in melanoma cell cultures from ICBT-progressing lesions characterised by elevated IFNγ signalling. Effector T cell infiltration is enhanced in tumours derived from cells pre-treated with IFNγ in immunocompetent female mice when PARP14 is pharmacologically inhibited or knocked down, while the presence of regulatory T cells is decreased, leading to restoration of α-PD-1 sensitivity. Finally, we determine that tumours which spontaneously relapse in immunocompetent female mice following α-PD-1 therapy upregulate IFNγ signalling and can also be re-sensitised upon receiving PARP14 inhibitor treatment, establishing PARP14 as an actionable target to reverse IFNγ-driven ICBT resistance.
- Published
- 2023
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35. Patterns and drivers of vector-borne microparasites in a classic metapopulation
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Laura S. Mackenzie, Xavier Lambin, Emma Bryce, Claire L. Davies, Richard Hassall, Ali A. M. Shati, Chris Sutherland, and Sandra E. Telfer
- Subjects
classic metapopulation ,connectivity ,dispersal ,distance-dependent ,host ,life-history ,vector ,vector-borne ,Biochemistry ,QD415-436 ,Infectious and parasitic diseases ,RC109-216 ,Microbiology ,QR1-502 - Abstract
Many organisms live in fragmented populations, which has profound consequences on the dynamics of associated parasites. Metapopulation theory offers a canonical framework for predicting the effects of fragmentation on spatiotemporal host–parasite dynamics. However, empirical studies of parasites in classical metapopulations remain rare, particularly for vector-borne parasites. Here, we quantify spatiotemporal patterns and possible drivers of infection probability for several ectoparasites (fleas, Ixodes trianguliceps and Ixodes ricinus) and vector-borne microparasites (Babesia microti, Bartonella spp., Hepatozoon spp.) in a classically functioning metapopulation of water vole hosts. Results suggest that the relative importance of vector or host dynamics on microparasite infection probabilities is related to parasite life-histories. Bartonella, a microparasite with a fast life-history, was positively associated with both host and vector abundances at several spatial and temporal scales. In contrast, B. microti, a tick-borne parasite with a slow life-history, was only associated with vector dynamics. Further, we provide evidence that life-history shaped parasite dynamics, including occupancy and colonization rates, in the metapopulation. Lastly, our findings were consistent with the hypothesis that landscape connectivity was determined by distance-based dispersal of the focal hosts. We provide essential empirical evidence that contributes to the development of a comprehensive theory of metapopulation processes of vector-borne parasites.
- Published
- 2023
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36. Collecting Contingency: Soviet Samizdat and Printing by Other Means
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Telfer, Michaela
- Subjects
Information science ,fugitivity ,piracy ,printing ,samizdat ,Soviet ,the book - Abstract
Collecting Contingency argues that the means of samizdat production during the classic Soviet samizdat period (1950s-1980s) introduced a different ontological understanding of print, publication, and the book than did official forms of printing in the same era. This alternative ontology resulted in a return to the ambiguous status of print in the early European print era and established forms of authorization, printing, and publication based in collaborative circulation and creative piracy. However, the standards that organize libraries and archives are built on the values of the official printing industry and cannot adequately contextualize the fugitive samizdat text. Due to this shortcoming, samizdat texts are delegitimized and misrepresented by current Western library and archival standards of authorization, description, provenance, and fixity. Failing to adapt standards to take fugitivity into account does not just reify narrow, hegemonic standards of print and knowledge organization, but also risks significant cultural loss.
- Published
- 2024
37. Development, acceptability and feasibility of a personalised, behavioural intervention to prevent bacterial skin and soft tissue infections among people who inject drugs: a mixed-methods Person-Based Approach study
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Joanna Kesten, Deborah Hussey, Catherine Lord, Leonie Roberts, James Bayliss, Helen Erswell, Andrew Preston, Maggie Telfer, Jenny Scott, Magdalena Harris, Dominic Mellon, Matthew Hickman, Georgie MacArthur, and Harriet Fisher
- Subjects
People who inject drugs ,Skin and soft tissue infections ,Co-production ,Person-Based Approach ,Intervention development ,Acceptability ,Public aspects of medicine ,RA1-1270 - Abstract
Abstract Background Skin and soft tissue infections (SSTI) among people who inject drugs (PWID) are a public health concern. This study aimed to co-produce and assess the acceptability and feasibility of a behavioural intervention to prevent SSTI. Methods The Person-Based Approach (PBA) was followed which involves: (i) collating and analysing evidence; (ii) developing guiding principles; (iii) a behavioural analysis; (iv) logic model development; and (v) designing and refining intervention materials. Co-production activities with target group representatives and key collaborators obtained feedback on the intervention which was used to refine its design and content. The intervention, harm reduction advice cards to support conversation between service provider and PWID and resources to support safer injecting practice, was piloted with 13 PWID by four service providers in Bristol and evaluated using a mixed-methods approach. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 PWID and four service providers. Questionnaires completed by all PWID recorded demographic characteristics, SSTI, drug use and treatment history. Interviews were analysed thematically and questionnaires were analysed descriptively. Results Published literature highlighted structural barriers to safer injecting practices, such as access to hygienic injecting environments and injecting practices associated with SSTI included: limited handwashing/injection-site swabbing and use of too much acidifier to dissolve drugs. Co-production activities and the literature indicated vein care and minimisation of pain as PWID priorities. The importance of service provider–client relationships and non-stigmatising delivery was highlighted through the co-production work. Providing practical resources was identified as important to address environmental constraints to safer injecting practices. Most participants receiving the intervention were White British, male, had a history of SSTI and on average were 43.6 years old and had injected for 22.7 years. The intervention was well-received by PWID and service providers. Intervention content and materials given out to support harm reduction were viewed positively. The intervention appeared to support reflections on and intentions to change injecting behaviours, though barriers to safer injecting practice remained prominent. Conclusions The PBA ensured the intervention aligned to the priorities of PWID. It was viewed as acceptable and mostly feasible to PWID and service providers and has transferability promise. Further implementation alongside broader harm reduction interventions is needed.
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- 2023
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38. Lines under the eyes: a large prospective case series of linear basal cell carcinomas
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Rutkowski, D., Collier, N. J., Telfer, N., and Ghura, V.
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- 2023
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39. Fuel Drivers of Fire Behaviour in Coastal Mallee Shrublands
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Simeon Telfer, Karin Reinke, Simon Jones, and James Hilton
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shrubland ,fuel metrics ,fuel assessment ,fuel classification ,fire behaviour ,fire modelling ,Physics ,QC1-999 - Abstract
Coastal mallee shrubland wildfires present challenges for accurately predicting fire spread sustainability and rate of spread. In this study, we assess the fuel drivers contributing to coastal mallee shrubland fires. A review of shrubland fire behaviour models and fuel metrics was conducted to determine the current practice of assessing shrubland fuels. This was followed by workshops designed to elicit which fuel structural metrics are key drivers of fire behaviour in coastal mallee shrublands. We found that height is the most commonly used fuel metric in shrubland fire models due to the ease of collection in situ or as a surrogate for more complex fuel structures. Expert workshop results suggest that cover and connectivity metrics are key to modelling fire behaviour in coastal mallee shrublands. While height and cover are frequently used in fire models, we conclude that connectivity metrics would offer additional insights into fuel drivers in mallee shrublands. Future research into coastal mallee fire behaviour should include the measurements of fuel height, cover, and horizontal and vertical connectivity.
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- 2024
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40. The ovaries of transgender men indicate effects of high dose testosterone on the primordial and early growing follicle pool
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Emily Bailie, Mila Maidarti, Robert Hawthorn, Stuart Jack, Neale Watson, Evelyn E Telfer, and Richard A Anderson
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transgender ,testosterone ,non-growing ovarian follicles ,primordial follicles ,effect ,impact ,Reproduction ,QH471-489 ,Gynecology and obstetrics ,RG1-991 - Abstract
Androgens are essential in normal ovarian function and follicle health, but hyperandrogenism, as seen in polycystic ovary syndrome, is associated with disordered follicle development. There are few data on the effect of long-term exposure to high levels of testosterone as found in transgender men receiving gender-affirming endocrine therapy. In this study, we investigate the effect of testosterone on the development, morphological health and DNA damage and repair capacity of human ovarian follicles in vivo and their survival in vitro. Whole ovaries were obtained from transgender men (mean age: 27.6 ± 1.7 years; range: 20–34 years, n = 8) at oophorectomy taking pre-operative testosterone therapy. This was compared to cortical biopsies from age-matched healthy women obtained at caesarean section (mean age: 31.8 ± 1.5 years; range: 25–35 years, n = 8). Cortical tissues were dissected into fragments and either immediately fixed for histological analysis or cultured for 6 days and subsequently fixed. Follicle classification and morphological health were evaluated from histological sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin and expression of γH2AX as a marker of DNA damage by immunohistochemistry (IHC). In uncultured tissue, testosterone exposure was associated with reduced follicle growth activation, poor follicle health and increased DNA damage. After 6 days of culture, there was enhanced follicle activation compared to the control with further deterioration in morphological health and increased DNA damage. These data indicate that high circulating concentrations of testosterone have effects on the primordial and small-growing follicles of the ovary. These results may have implications for transgender men receiving gender-affirming therapy prior to considering pregnancy or fertility preservation measures.
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- 2023
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41. Direct correction of haemoglobin E β-thalassaemia using base editors
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Mohsin Badat, Ayesha Ejaz, Peng Hua, Siobhan Rice, Weijiao Zhang, Lance D. Hentges, Christopher A. Fisher, Nicholas Denny, Ron Schwessinger, Nirmani Yasara, Noemi B. A. Roy, Fadi Issa, Andi Roy, Paul Telfer, Jim Hughes, Sachith Mettananda, Douglas R. Higgs, and James O. J. Davies
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Science - Abstract
Abstract Haemoglobin E (HbE) β-thalassaemia causes approximately 50% of all severe thalassaemia worldwide; equating to around 30,000 births per year. HbE β-thalassaemia is due to a point mutation in codon 26 of the human HBB gene on one allele (GAG; glutamatic acid → AAG; lysine, E26K), and any mutation causing severe β-thalassaemia on the other. When inherited together in compound heterozygosity these mutations can cause a severe thalassaemic phenotype. However, if only one allele is mutated individuals are carriers for the respective mutation and have an asymptomatic phenotype (β-thalassaemia trait). Here we describe a base editing strategy which corrects the HbE mutation either to wildtype (WT) or a normal variant haemoglobin (E26G) known as Hb Aubenas and thereby recreates the asymptomatic trait phenotype. We have achieved editing efficiencies in excess of 90% in primary human CD34 + cells. We demonstrate editing of long-term repopulating haematopoietic stem cells (LT-HSCs) using serial xenotransplantation in NSG mice. We have profiled the off-target effects using a combination of circularization for in vitro reporting of cleavage effects by sequencing (CIRCLE-seq) and deep targeted capture and have developed machine-learning based methods to predict functional effects of candidate off-target mutations.
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- 2023
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42. Living with rodent pests: Unifying stakeholder interests to prioritise pest management in rural Madagascar
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Kathryn Scobie, Xavier Lambin, Sandra Telfer, Mendrika Fenohasina Rasahivelo, Rova Nandrianina Raheliarison, Minoarisoa Rajerison, and Juliette Young
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stakeholder engagement ,community‐based intervention ,Madagascar ,agriculture ,rodent control ,public health ,Human ecology. Anthropogeography ,GF1-900 ,Ecology ,QH540-549.5 - Abstract
Abstract Rodent pests can have major social, economic, and environmental impacts. Their management, therefore, represents a complex socio‐ecological problem involving a network of stakeholders from across different sectors, with diverging and sometimes competing interests. Failure to incorporate stakeholder interests can result in ineffective or unsustainable management programmes, with unintended negative consequences for people and nature. Participatory approaches to decision‐making have been proposed as suitable strategies to tackle complex problems, yet, these processes are often considered too difficult, costly, or time‐consuming to implement. To facilitate a participatory approach to rodent control in Madagascar, we identified and mapped key stakeholders and developed a multisector framework for guiding rodent management programmes based on current literature and expert recommendations. We then carried out interviews and focus groups with stakeholders and end‐users to validate the final framework. The final framework unifies stakeholder interests around the dimensions of People, Resources, Knowledge and Power. Combined application of the stakeholder map and framework provides decision‐makers with the tools to identify stakeholder interests; to explore areas of conflict, as well as areas of agreement; and to ensure that these are addressed within the design of control programmes. As an assessment tool, the framework can also be used to evaluate the responsiveness of programmes to the needs of different stakeholders and assess whether objectives are being reached. We recommend the application of the stakeholder map and framework to encourage and strengthen participatory approaches aimed at rodent pest control. Due to the inclusive and interdisciplinary nature of the framework, it can be applied to address numerous complex social, environmental, and economic issues across scales, sectors, and systems. Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
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- 2023
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43. Does Suture Type or Configuration Matter in Percutaneous Achilles Tendon Repairs?
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Nathan Benner MD, Grant Branam DO, Kenneth Chin MD, Scott Telfer, and Hana Keller
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Orthopedic surgery ,RD701-811 - Abstract
Category: Trauma; Sports Introduction/Purpose: The human Achilles tendon is functionally important for dynamic activities and is a common site of injury, resulting in pain, weakness, and removal from sport. While treatment options vary and the opinions regarding optimal management are not uniform, percutaneous repair through commercially available guides is one option that has been used in the United States. The purpose of this study was to test the mechanical properties of four suture permutations. Methods: This biomechanical study included Porcine toe flexor tendons as an analogue for the human Achilles tendon. Simulated rupture was performed and tendons repaired using a percutaneous guide. Technique was uniform with pre-determined allotment into one of four groups based on suture configuration (single or double locked) and type (round or flat) with a total of 10 specimens in each group. Specimen then underwent static creep test, a dynamic load creep test, and finally load to failure test. An analysis of variance test was performed, followed by pairwise comparisons using independent t-tests to assess inter-group differences if significant effects were found, adjusted for multiple comparisons. Results: No significant differences were seen between conditions for the creep tests. The suture configuration used was determined to have a significant effect on the maximum load to failure of the constructs (p = 0.018) and maximum stress in the construct during the load to failure test (p = 0.019). Double Tape had a significantly greater load to failure than the Single Round (66N (0.021, [25, 107]) and Single Tape (72N (0.037, [18, 126]) conditions, and reached greater stresses before failure (0.1N/mm^2 (0.04, [0.03, 0.17] and 0.1N/mm^2 (0.04, [0.02, 0.18], respectively). No significant differences were found between the double tape and double round techniques, nor the Double Round and either of the Single techniques for any of the load to failure variables. Conclusion: Currently, there is no compelling data to support surgical over non-surgical management of Achilles tendon ruptures. However, by patient or surgeon preference, many patients undergo operative intervention, and percutaneous repair through a guide is a popular modality. The results of this study, using a porcine model to simulate a minimally invasive technique for Achilles tendon repairs, suggest that the use of a double locked tape suture configuration leads to a stronger overall construct. The clinical implications of these findings will be the subject of future work.
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- 2023
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44. Psychometric properties of the mock interview rating scale for autistic transition-age youth
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Matthew J. Smith, Kari L. Sherwood, Helen M. Genova, Brittany Ross, Leann Smith DaWalt, Lauren Bishop, David Telfer, Cheryl Brown, Barbara Sanchez, and Michael A. Kallen
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autism ,job interview skills assessment ,psychometric properties ,employment ,transition-age youth ,Psychiatry ,RC435-571 - Abstract
BackgroundEmployment is a major contributor to quality of life. However, autistic people are often unemployed and underemployed. One potential barrier to employment is the job interview. However, the availability of psychometrically-evaluated assessments of job interviewing skills is limited for autism services providers and researchers.ObjectiveWe analyzed the psychometric properties of the Mock Interview Rating Scale that was adapted for research with autistic transition-age youth (A-MIRS; a comprehensive assessment of video-recorded job interview role-play scenarios using anchor-based ratings for 14 scripted job scenarios).MethodsEighty-five transition-age youth with autism completed one of two randomized controlled trials to test the effectiveness of two interventions focused on job interview skills. All participants completed a single job interview role-play at pre-test that was scored by raters using the A-MIRS. We analyzed the structure of the A-MIRS using classical test theory, which involved conducting both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyzes, Rasch model analysis and calibration techniques. We then assessed internal consistency, inter-rater reliability, and test–retest reliability. Pearson correlations were used to assess the A-MIRS’ construct, convergent, divergent, criterion, and predictive validities by comparing it to demographic, clinical, cognitive, work history measures, and employment outcomes.ResultsResults revealed an 11-item unidimensional construct with strong internal consistency, inter-rater reliability, and test–retest reliability. Construct [pragmatic social skills (r = 0.61, p
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- 2023
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45. Waldorf Education: Investigations into the Development of Executive Function
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Telfer-Radzat, Kimberly
- Abstract
Despite a 100-year-old history and the existence of schools in nearly every country in the world, Waldorf education is a little known and poorly understood educational model that was developed in Europe by Austrian philosopher Rudolph Steiner. For many years it existed in the United States in the form of private schools. Few of their teachers or administrators were interested in the opinions of others regarding the effectiveness of their pedagogy. As Waldorf-inspired charter schools have grown across the U.S., there is a greater need to understand the system. The Waldorf curriculum was created by Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner who was a contemporary of John Dewey and Maria Montessori, and who shared their belief in the advantages of active learning. Yet Steiner was unique among his contemporaries in his focus on an artistic approach to learning. Using interviews, observations, and student work, I identify the beliefs that Waldorf teachers hold around the idea of what it means to be a teacher and then describe the ways in which their beliefs influence the integration of the arts in the literacy curriculum. Interviews confirmed previous research asserting that the Waldorf pedagogy is understood by its teachers in a consistent way across wholly independent schools. All three teachers shared a common understanding of child development, as well as a wholistic view of teaching and learning. Their beliefs centered around three ideas: first, that each child develops at their own pace, second, that academic achievement is not superior to physical, social, or behavioral achievement, and third, that focusing on foundational skills in grades one through three was one of the most important ways they could affect academic achievement. The teachers saw it as their role to a) be a guide and authority who b) strove to "see" the students in front of them, and c) worked reflectively to improve themselves as teachers. Their beliefs in the wholistic nature of learning led them to approach teaching with an eye towards active experiences that focused strongly on the use of imagination to strengthen each child's connection to the academic content. Their learning of the letter B, for example, was not a simple explanation of its formation and sound. The students were introduced to a story that included 'B'utterflies and 'b'oots, which they drew into their books before proceeding to discover all the words that had a similar sound and practicing the writing of the letters. Individual growth is showcased through student work as it changed over time. The second study looked more deeply at the practices of the same teachers during a time of their teaching called "morning rhythmical work." Using mixed-methods design, I attempt to compare the executive function development of students in these private schools to other private schools in California. Specifically, I examine how the pedagogical practices that focus on movement, song, and playful teaching in these private schools might impact executive function development, as compared with other private schools throughout the United States. Using observations and interviews, I describe the ways in which Waldorf teachers integrate movement and games into their school day. Then I used data from the ECLS-K to compare the development of the private school Waldorf students to other matched students in private schools. Although there was much evidence to suggest that the activities the teachers are engaging in with their students do require executive function skill, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there was no evidence found in the second part of study two. Finally, study three used a quantitative, longitudinal, causal-comparative study design to examine the effectiveness of Waldorf education using annual state assessment scores for Waldorf-inspired charter school classrooms. This study addresses a gap in the literature as it relates to achievement among public school students in Waldorf-inspired classrooms, as compared to other non-Waldorf classrooms in grades three through eight. I found that by eighth grade students in Waldorf-inspired charter schools are performing similarly or better in ELA and math as compared to their non-Waldorf charter school and local public school comparison groups. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
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- 2022
46. An Intersectional Approach to Parental Ethnic/Racial Socialization Practices and Adolescent Academic Outcomes
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Telfer, Nicole A. and Else-Quest, Nicole M.
- Abstract
Amid ethnic/racial stratification and oppression, parents' engagement in ethnic/racial socialization (ERS) practices foster resilience and positive outcomes in youth. Research has found inconsistent effects of ERS practices on adolescent academic outcomes and has neglected the intersectionality of race/ethnicity and gender. Using an intersectional approach and longitudinal design, we explored how N = 358 parents' ERS practices (cultural socialization, preparation for bias, and promotion of mistrust) predicted academic outcomes among male and female Black/African American, Asian American, Latinx, and White/European American high schoolers 1 year later. Ethnic/racial group differences in ERS practices were consistent across youth gender. Our intersectional approach revealed that cultural socialization predicted Asian American boys' academic achievement and that preparation for bias predicted Black/African American boys' academic achievement. Future studies should continue to explore the gendered construction of ERS messages and how they shape academic outcomes differently across diverse samples.
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- 2022
47. Two distinct variants of simian foamy virus in naturally infected mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) and cross-species transmission to humans
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Marx Preston, Telfer Paul, Saib Ali, Renault Noemie, Sallé Bettina, Makuwa Maria, Caron Mélanie, Betsem Edouard, Mouinga-Ondémé Augustin, Gessain Antoine, and Kazanji Mirdad
- Subjects
Immunologic diseases. Allergy ,RC581-607 - Abstract
Abstract Background Each of the pathogenic human retroviruses (HIV-1/2 and HTLV-1) has a nonhuman primate counterpart, and the presence of these retroviruses in humans results from interspecies transmission. The passage of another simian retrovirus, simian foamy virus (SFV), from apes or monkeys to humans has been reported. Mandrillus sphinx, a monkey species living in central Africa, is naturally infected with SFV. We evaluated the natural history of the virus in a free-ranging colony of mandrills and investigated possible transmission of mandrill SFV to humans. Results We studied 84 semi-free-ranging captive mandrills at the Primate Centre of the Centre International de Recherches Médicales de Franceville (Gabon) and 15 wild mandrills caught in various areas of the country. The presence of SFV was also evaluated in 20 people who worked closely with mandrills and other nonhuman primates. SFV infection was determined by specific serological (Western blot) and molecular (nested PCR of the integrase region in the polymerase gene) assays. Seropositivity for SFV was found in 70/84 (83%) captive and 9/15 (60%) wild-caught mandrills and in 2/20 (10%) humans. The 425-bp SFV integrase fragment was detected in peripheral blood DNA from 53 captive and 8 wild-caught mandrills and in two personnel. Sequence and phylogenetic studies demonstrated the presence of two distinct strains of mandrill SFV, one clade including SFVs from mandrills living in the northern part of Gabon and the second consisting of SFV from animals living in the south. One man who had been bitten 10 years earlier by a mandrill and another bitten 22 years earlier by a macaque were found to be SFV infected, both at the Primate Centre. The second man had a sequence close to SFVmac sequences. Comparative sequence analysis of the virus from the first man and from the mandrill showed nearly identical sequences, indicating genetic stability of SFV over time. Conclusion Our results show a high prevalence of SFV infection in a semi-free-ranging colony of mandrills, with the presence of two different strains. We also showed transmission of SFV from a mandrill and a macaque to humans.
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- 2010
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48. Microplastics Scoping Review of Environmental and Human Exposure Data
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Gaston Casillas, Brian Charles Hubbard, Jana Telfer, Max Zarate-Bermudez, Custodio Muianga, Gregory M. Zarus, Yulia Carroll, April Ellis, and Candis M. Hunter
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scoping review ,microplastics ,environmental concentration ,literature review ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Microbiology ,QR1-502 ,Biochemistry ,QD415-436 - Abstract
Scientific studies of microplastics have expanded since 2015, propelling the topic to the forefront of scientific inquiry. Microplastics are ubiquitous in the environment and pose a potential risk to human health. The purpose of this review is to organize microplastics literature into areas of scientific research, summarize the state of the literature and identify the current data gaps in knowledge to promote a better understanding of human exposure to microplastics and their potential health effects. We searched for published literature from eight databases. Our search focused on three categories: (1) microplastics in the environment, (2) adsorption and absorption of chemicals to microplastics, and (3) human exposure to microplastics in the environment. We screened all abstracts to select articles that focused on microplastics. We then screened the remaining articles using criteria outlined in a questionnaire to identify and assign articles to the three scoping review categories. After screening abstracts, we selected 1186 articles (19%) to thoroughly assess their appropriateness for inclusion in the final review. Of the 1186 articles, 903 (76.1%) belonged to the environmental category, 268 (22.6%) to the adsorption and absorption category, and 16 (1.3%) to the human exposure category. Water was the most frequently studied environmental medium (440 articles). Our assessment resulted in 572 articles selected for the final review. Of the 572 publications, 268 (48.2%) included a geographic component and 110 (19.2%) were the product of literature reviews. We also show that relatively few publications have investigated human health effects associated with exposures to microplastics.
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- 2023
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49. μ-1,6-Dioxo-1,6-diphenylhexane-3,4-diolato-bis[(2,2′-bipyridine)chloridocopper(II)] dihydrate
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Luke Nye, Shane G. Telfer, and Mark M. Turnbull
- Subjects
cuii ,hydrate ,hydrogen-bonding ,tetronedioate ,crystal structure ,Crystallography ,QD901-999 - Abstract
The reaction of CuCl2 with 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5,6-hexanetetrone and 2,2′-bipyridine (bipy) in ethanol gave crystals of the corresponding bimetallic complex, [Cu2(C18H12O4)Cl2(C10H8N2)2]·2H2O. The molecule is centrosymmetric with each CuII ion coordinated to two oxygen atoms from the tetronediate, two nitrogen atoms from a bipy ligand and one coordinated chloride ion. A water molecule of crystallization forms hydrogen bonds to the chloride ions, linking the molecules into a chain parallel to the bc-face diagonal.
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- 2023
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50. P1428: PREDICTORS OF VOC RATE DURING LONG-TERM FOLLOW-UP OF PATIENTS WITH HBSS IN A NEWBORN COHORT STUDY
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Muriel Ramalli, Cynthia Sangarappillai, Banu Kaya, Filipa Barrosso, Sarah Bennett, David Kafuko, Jonathan W Bestwick, and Paul Telfer
- Subjects
Diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs ,RC633-647.5 - Published
- 2023
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