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Abstract Microsatellite instability high (MSI-H) and mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) tumor status have been demonstrated to predict patient response to immunotherapies. We developed and validated a next-generation sequencing (NGS)-based companion diagnostic (CDx) to detect MSI-H solid tumors via a comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) assay, FoundationOne®CDx (F1CDx). To determine MSI status, F1CDx calculates the fraction of unstable microsatellite loci across >2000 loci using a fraction-based (FB) analysis. Across solid tumor types, F1CDx demonstrated a high analytical concordance with both PCR (n = 264) and IHC (n = 279) with an overall percent agreement (OPA) of 97.7% and 97.8%, respectively. As part of a retrospective bridging clinical study from KEYNOTE-158 Cohort K and KEYNOTE-164, patients with MSI-H tumors as determined by F1CDx demonstrated an objective response rate (ORR) of 43.0% to pembrolizumab. In real-world cancer patients from a deidentified clinicogenomic database, F1CDx was at least equivalent in assessing clinical outcome following immunotherapy compared with MMR IHC. Demonstrated analytical and clinical performance of F1CDx led to the pan-tumor FDA approval in 2022 of F1CDx to identify MSI-H solid tumor patients for treatment with pembrolizumab. F1CDx is an accurate, reliable, and FDA-approved method for the identification of MSI-H tumors for treatment with pembrolizumab.

Abstract Gut microbiota members from the Bacteroidota phylum play a pivotal role in mammalian health and metabolism. They thrive in this diverse ecosystem due to their notable ability to cope with distinct recalcitrant dietary glycans via polysaccharide utilization loci (PULs). Our study reveals that a PUL from an herbivore gut bacterium belonging to the Bacteroidota phylum, with a gene composition similar to that in the human gut, exhibits extended functionality. While the human gut PUL targets mixed-linkage β-glucans specifically, the herbivore gut PUL also efficiently processes linear and substituted β-1,3-glucans. This gain of function emerges from molecular adaptations in recognition proteins and carbohydrate-active enzymes, including a β-glucosidase specialized for β(1,6)-glucosyl linkages, a typical substitution in β(1,3)-glucans. These findings broaden the existing model for non-cellulosic β-glucans utilization by gut bacteria, revealing an additional layer of functional and evolutionary complexity within the gut microbiota, beyond conventional gene insertions/deletions to intricate biochemical interactions.

Abstract Background Although significant advances have been made in the conceptualization of sustainability, having pragmatic, psychometrically valid tools remains a need within the field. Our previous work has developed frameworks and tools to assess both program sustainability and clinical sustainability capacity. This work presents new, psychometrically tested short versions of the Program Sustainability Assessment Tool (PSAT) and the Clinical Sustainability Assessment Tool (CSAT). Methods These methods were conducted in identical, parallel processes for the CSAT and PSAT. Previously collected data for these instruments was obtained across a variety of settings, contexts, and participants. We first conducted testing to determine cronbach’s alpha of shortened domains (3 items each) and then conducted Confirmatory Factor Analysis to ensure that the domains were still appropriate for the tool. After, the team met to review the results and determine the final versions of the short PSAT and short CSAT. Results The short PSAT retained cronbach’s alpha’s of 0.82 – 0.91 for each domain of the tool, with which maintains excellent reliability for the tool. Confirmatory factor analysis highlights that the short PSAT retains conceptual distinction across the 8 domains, with CFI scores greater than 0.90, RMSEA scores below 0.6, and SRMR scores less than 0.08. The short CSAT had cronbach’s alpha of 0.84 – 0.92 for each of the domains of the tool, also suggesting excellent reliability of the domains within the measure after dropping two items/domain. Confirmatory factor analysis of the short CSAT meets the same specifications as above, again highlighting conceptual distinction across the domains. Conclusion Each tool was able to be shortened to three items per domain while maintaining strong psychometric properties. This results in a tool that takes less time to complete, meeting one of the key calls for pragmatic measures within implementation science. This advances our abilities to measure and test sustainability within implementation science.

Abstract Background Phlebotomus papatasi is considered the primary vector of Leishmania major parasites that cause zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis (ZCL) in the Middle East and North Africa. Phlebotomus papatasi populations have been studied extensively, revealing the existence of different genetic populations and subpopulations over its large distribution range. Genetic diversity and population structure analysis using transcriptome microsatellite markers is important to uncover the vector distribution dynamics, essential for controlling ZCL in endemic areas. Methods In this study, we investigated the level of genetic variation using expressed sequence tag-derived simple sequence repeats (EST-SSRs) among field and colony P. papatasi samples collected from 25 different locations in 11 countries. A total of 302 P. papatasi sand fly individuals were analyzed, including at least 10 flies from each region. Results The analysis revealed a high-level population structure expressed by five distinct populations A through E, with moderate genetic differentiation among all populations. These genetic differences in expressed genes may enable P. papatasi to adapt to different environmental conditions along its distribution range and likely affect dispersal. Conclusions Elucidating the population structuring of P. papatasi is essential to L. major containment efforts in endemic countries. Moreover, the level of genetic variation among these populations may improve our understanding of Leishmania–sand fly interactions and contribute to the efforts of vaccine development based on P. papatasi salivary proteins. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Lignin, a major plant cell wall component, has an important role in plant-defense mechanisms against pathogens and is a promising renewable carbon source to produce bio-based chemicals. However, our understanding of microbial metabolism is incomplete regarding certain lignin-related compounds like p-coumaryl and sinapyl alcohols. Here, we reveal peripheral pathways for the catabolism of the three main lignin precursors (p-coumaryl, coniferyl, and sinapyl alcohols) in the plant pathogen Xanthomonas citri. Our study demonstrates all the necessary enzymatic steps for funneling these monolignols into the tricarboxylic acid cycle, concurrently uncovering aryl aldehyde reductases that likely protect the pathogen from aldehydes toxicity. It also shows that lignin-related aromatic compounds activate transcriptional responses related to chemotaxis and flagellar-dependent motility, which might play an important role during plant infection. Together our findings provide foundational knowledge to support biotechnological advances for both plant diseases treatments and conversion of lignin-derived compounds into bio-based chemicals.

Abstract Dams commonly restrict fish movements in large rivers but can also help curtail the spread of invasive species, such as invasive bigheaded carps (Hypophthalmichthys spp). To determine how dams in the upper Mississippi River (UMR) affect large-scale invasive and native fish migrations, we tracked American paddlefish (Polyodon spathula) and bigheaded carp across > 600 river km (rkm) and 16 navigation locks and dams (LD) of the UMR during 2 years with contrasting water levels. In 2022, a low-water year, both native paddlefish and invasive bigheaded carp had low passage rates (4% and 0.6% respectively) through LD15, a movement bottleneck being studied for invasive carp control. In contrast, flooding in 2023 led to open-river conditions across multiple dams simultaneously, allowing 53% of paddlefish and 46% of bigheaded carp detected in Pool 16 to move upstream through LD15. Bigheaded carp passed upstream through LD15 rapidly (μ = 32 rkm per day) a maximum of 381 rkm, whereas paddlefish moved an average of 9 upstream rkm per day (maximum of 337 rkm). Our results can inform managers examining trade-offs between actions that enhance native fish passage or deter movements of invasive species. This understanding is critical because current climate change models project increases in flooding events like that observed during 2023.

The purpose of the article is to develop a better comprehension of the actions that posgraduate academics from a Mexican university use to supervise the integrity of their research work. A qualitative inquiry was carried out with 291 professors and researchers of that level, who answered the question: In your academic work, how is integrity in research supervised? The analysis was developed by the procedures of the Grounded Theory. The results were organized in two categories: “Supervision of research integrity based in collective work”, that involves the participation of diverse subjects, and “Epistemological vigilance in the supervision of research integrity”, associated with an attitude of caution throughout the development of the projects. The conclusion highlights the relevance that they gave to basic aspects of ethics in the generation of knowledge and in training processes.

Abstract Single-cell omics technologies can measure millions of cells for up to thousands of biomolecular features, enabling data-driven studies of complex biological networks. However, these high-throughput experimental techniques often cannot track individual cells over time, thus complicating the understanding of dynamics such as time trajectories of cell states. These “dynamical phenotypes” are key to understanding biological phenomena such as differentiation fates. We show by mathematical analysis that, in spite of high dimensionality and lack of individual cell traces, three time-points of single-cell omics data are theoretically necessary and sufficient to uniquely determine the network interaction matrix and associated dynamics. Moreover, we show through numerical simulations that an interaction matrix can be accurately determined with three or more time-points even in the presence of sampling and measurement noise typical of single-cell omics. Our results can guide the design of single-cell omics time-course experiments, and provide a tool for data-driven phase-space analysis.

Abstract Human metabolism is complex, and is impacted by genetics, cohabitation, diet, health, and environmental inputs. As such, we applied untargeted LC-MS metabolomics to 1425 saliva samples from a diverse group of elementary school-aged children and their caregivers collected during the Family Life Project, of which 1344 were paired into caregiver/child dyads. We compared metabolomes within and between homes, performed population-wide “metabotype” analyses, and measured associations between metabolites and salivary biomeasures of inflammation, antioxidant potential, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure, metabolic regulation, and heavy metals. Children and caregivers had similar salivary metabolomes, and dyad explained most metabolomic variation. Our data clustered into two groups, indicating that “metabotypes” exist across large populations. Lastly, several metabolites—putative oxidative damage-associated or pathological markers—were correlated with the above-mentioned salivary biomeasures and heavy metals. Implications of the family environment’s effects on metabolomic variation at population, dyadic, and individual levels for human health are discussed.

Abstract The diagnosis of prostate cancer using histopathology is reliant on the accurate interpretation of prostate tissue sections. Current standards rely on the assessment of Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining, which can be difficult to interpret and introduce inter-observer variability. Here, we present a digital pathology atlas and online resource of prostate cancer tissue micrographs for both H&E and the reinterpretation of samples using a novel set of three biomarkers as an interactive tool, where clinicians and scientists can explore high resolution histopathology from various case studies. The digital pathology prostate cancer atlas when used in conjunction with the biomarkers, will assist pathologists to accurately grade prostate cancer tissue samples.

Abstract Preclinical studies suggest that simultaneous HER2/VEGF blockade may have cooperative effects in gastroesophageal adenocarcinomas. In a single-arm investigator initiated clinical trial for patients with untreated advanced HER2+ gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma, bevacizumab was added to standard of care capecitabine, oxaliplatin, and trastuzumab in 36 patients (NCT01191697). Primary endpoint was objective response rate and secondary endpoints included safety, duration of response, progression free survival, and overall survival. The study met its primary endpoint with an objective response rate of 81% (95% CI 65–92%). Median progression free and overall survival were 14.0 (95% CI, 11.3–36.4) and 23.2 months (95% CI, 16.6–36.4), respectively. The median duration of response was 14.9 months. The regimen was well tolerated without unexpected or severe toxicities. In post-hoc ctDNA analysis, baseline ctDNA features were prognostic: Higher tumor fraction and alternative MAPK drivers portended worse outcomes. ctDNA at resistance identified oncogenic mutations and these were detectable 2–8 cycles prior to radiographic progression. Capecitabine, oxaliplatin, trastuzumab and bevacizumab shows robust clinical activity in HER2+ gastroesophageal adenocarcinoma. Combination of VEGF inhibitors with chemoimmunotherapy and anti-PD1 regimens is warranted.

Abstract Background Cigar use among adults in the United States has remained relatively stable in the past decade and occupies a growing part of the tobacco marketplace as cigarette use has declined. While studies have established the detrimental respiratory health effects of cigarette use, the effects of cigar use need further characterization. In this study, we evaluate the prospective association between cigar use, with or without cigarettes, and asthma exacerbation. Methods We used data from Waves 1–5 (2013–2019) of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study to run generalized estimating equation models examining the association between time-varying, one-wave-lagged cigarette and cigar use and self-reported asthma exacerbation among US adults (18+). We defined our exposure as non-established (reference), former, exclusive cigarette, exclusive cigar, and dual use. We defined an asthma exacerbation event as a reported asthma attack in the past 12 months necessitating oral or injected steroid medication or asthma symptoms disrupting sleep at least once a week in the past 30 days. We adjusted for age, sex, race and ethnicity, household income, health insurance, established electronic nicotine delivery systems use, cigarette pack-years, secondhand smoke exposure, obesity, and baseline asthma exacerbation. Results Exclusive cigarette use (incidence rate ratio (IRR): 1.26, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03–1.54) and dual use (IRR: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.08–1.85) were associated with a higher rate of asthma exacerbation compared to non-established use, while former use (IRR: 1.01, 95% CI: 0.80–1.28) and exclusive cigar use (IRR: 0.70, 95% CI: 0.42–1.17) were not. Conclusion We found no association between exclusive cigar use and self-reported asthma exacerbation. However, exclusive cigarette use and dual cigarette and cigar use were associated with higher incidence rates of self-reported asthma exacerbation compared to non-established use. Studies should evaluate strategies to improve cigarette and cigar smoking cessation among adults with asthma who continue to smoke.

Abstract Background The health consequences of polytobacco use are not well understood. We evaluated prospective associations between exclusive, dual, and polytobacco use and diagnosed bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic cough among US youth. Methods Data came from Waves 1–5 of the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health Study. We categorized time-varying past 30-day tobacco use into seven categories: (1) non-current use; exclusive use of 2) cigarettes, 3) e-cigarettes, and 4) other combustible products (OC; pipes, hookah, and cigars); dual use of 5) e-cigarettes + cigarettes or e-cigarettes + OC, and 6) cigarettes + OC; and 7) polyuse of all three products. The outcome was parent-reported diagnosis of bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic cough among youth. We conducted weighted multilevel Poisson models (person n = 17,517, 43,290 observations) to examine the longitudinal exposure-outcome relationship, adjusting for covariates: sex, age, race and ethnicity, parental education, body mass index, secondhand smoke exposure, and household use of combustible products. Results Compared to nonuse, exclusive cigarette use (Risk Ratio (RR) = 1.83, 95% CI 1.25–2.68), exclusive e-cigarette use (RR = 1.53, 95% CI 1.08–2.15), combustible product + e-cigarette dual use (RR = 1.90, 95% CI 1.18–3.04), cigarettes + OC dual use (RR = 1.96, 95% CI 1.11–3.48), and polytobacco use (RR = 3.06 95% CI 1.67–5.63) were associated with a higher risk of bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic cough. In additional analyses, we found that the risk ratio for polytobacco use was higher compared to exclusive e-cigarette use (RR 2.01 CI 95% 1.02–3.95), but not higher compared to exclusive cigarette use (RR 1.67 CI 95% 0.85–3.28). Conclusion We found that exclusive, dual, and poly tobacco use were all associated with higher risk of bronchitis, pneumonia, or chronic cough compared to non-current use.

Neste trabalho se investigou a produção de biochar (biocarvão) oriundo do processo de pirólise dos caroços de açaí (Euterpe oleracea), utilizando as temperaturas de 400°C e 450°C. Observou-se que a temperatura do processo influencia o rendimento de biochar. Os resultados mostraram que, com o aumento de temperatura o rendimento do biochar diminui, enquanto o do bio-óleo aumenta. A temperatura de pirólise alterou a morfologia do biochar, sendo reduzido a pó depois dela. Assim, foram realizados testes de adsorção nas amostras de 400°C e 450°C e em amostras impregnadas com uma solução de 2 mol.L-1 de ácido clorídrico (HCl). Os dados de equilíbrio foram analisados com base nas isotermas de Langmuir e Freundlich. A cinética foi avaliada de acordo com a variação de tempo para a concentração de 1% v/v de ácido acético (CH3COOH), conforme os modelos cinéticos obtidos. Desse modo, conclui-se que o biochar dos caroços de açaí é um adsorvente de baixo custo com capacidade satisfatória para remediação do solo. A partir dos resultados dos ensaios de adsorção foi constatado que a ativação com ácido clorídrico não foi eficaz devido à redução da capacidade de adsorção em relação aos adsorventes não impregnados.

Abstract Glutaminase (GLS) is directly related to cell growth and tumor progression, making it a target for cancer treatment. The RNA-binding protein HuR (encoded by the ELAVL1 gene) influences mRNA stability and alternative splicing. Overexpression of ELAVL1 is common in several cancers, including breast cancer. Here we show that HuR regulates GLS mRNA alternative splicing and isoform translation/stability in breast cancer. Elevated ELAVL1 expression correlates with high levels of the glutaminase isoforms C (GAC) and kidney-type (KGA), which are associated with poor patient prognosis. Knocking down ELAVL1 reduces KGA and increases GAC levels, enhances glutamine anaplerosis into the TCA cycle, and drives cells towards glutamine dependence. Furthermore, we show that combining chemical inhibition of GLS with ELAVL1 silencing synergistically decreases breast cancer cell growth and invasion. These findings suggest that dual inhibition of GLS and HuR offers a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment.

Abstract Background Age > 65 years is a key risk factor for poor outcomes after human influenza infection. Specifically, in addition to respiratory disease, non-neurotropic influenza A virus (IAV) causes neuro-cognitive complications, e.g. new onset depression and increases the risk of dementia after hospitalization. This study aimed to identify potential mechanisms of these effects by determining differences between young and old mice in brain gene expression in a mouse model of non-neurotropic IAV infection. Methods Young (12 weeks) and old (70 weeks) C57Bl/6J mice were inoculated intranasally with 200 PFU H1N1 A/PR/34/8 (PR8) or sterile PBS (mock). Gene expression in lung and brain was measured by qRT-PCR and normalized to β-actin. Findings were confirmed using the nCounter Mouse Neuroinflammation Array (NanoString) and analyzed with nSolver 4.0 and Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA, Qiagen). Results IAV PR8 did not invade the central nervous system. Young and old mice differed significantly in brain gene expression at baseline and during non-neurotropic IAV infection. Expression of brain Ifnl, Irf7, and Tnf mRNAs was upregulated over baseline control at 3 days post-infection (p.i.) only in young mice, but old mice expressed more Ifnl than young mice 7 days p.i. Gene arrays showed down-regulation of the Epigenetic Regulation, Insulin Signaling, and Neurons and Neurotransmission pathways in old mice 3 days p.i. while young mice demonstrated no change or induction of these pathways at the same time point. IPA revealed marked baseline differences between old and young mice. Gene expression related to Cognitive Impairment, Memory Deficits and Learning worsened in old mice relative to young mice during IAV infection. Aged mice demonstrate more severe changes in gene expression related to memory loss and cognitive dysfunction by IPA. Conclusions These data suggest the genes and pathways related to learning and cognitive performance that were worse at baseline in old mice were further worsened by IAV infection, similar to old patients. Early events in the brain triggered by IAV infection portend downstream neurocognitive pathology in old adults.

Abstract Background Sugammadex is a pharmacologic agent that provides rapid reversal of neuromuscular blockade via encapsulation of the neuromuscular blocking agent (NMBA). The sugammadex-NMBA complex is primarily cleared through glomerular filtration from the kidney, raising the possibility that alterations in renal function could affect its elimination. In pediatric patients, the benefits of sugammadex have led to widespread utilization; however, there is limited information on its application in pediatric renal impairment. This study examined sugammadex use and postoperative outcomes in pediatric patients with severe chronic renal impairment at our quaternary pediatric referral hospital. Methods After IRB approval, we performed a retrospective analysis in pediatric patients with stage IV and V chronic kidney disease who received sugammadex from January 2017 to March 2022. Postoperative outcomes studied included new or increased respiratory requirement, unplanned intensive care unit (ICU) admission, postoperative pneumonia, anaphylaxis, and death within 48 h postoperatively, unplanned deferral of intraoperative extubation, and repeat administrations of NMBA reversal after leaving the operating room. Results The final cohort included 17 patients ranging from 8 months to 16 years old. One patient required new postoperative noninvasive ventilation on postoperative day 2, which was credited to hypervolemia. Another patient had bronchospasm intraoperatively resolving with medication, which could not definitively be associated sugammadex administration. There were no instances of deferred extubation, unplanned ICU or need for supplemental oxygen after tracheal extubation identified. Conclusion No adverse effects directly attributable to sugammadex in pediatric patients with severe renal impairment were detected. There may be a role for utilization of sugammadex for neuromuscular reversal in this population.

No intuito de buscar produtos alternativos na indução da brotação da videira, o presente trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o efeito de indutores de brotação na videira ‘Bordô’ cultivada na região do Planalto Norte Catarinense. O experimento foi conduzido durante a safra 2020/2021, em vinhedo situado no município de Canoinhas, SC. Os tratamentos consistiram na pulverização dos seguintes indutores de brotação: Testemunha (aplicação de água), Nitrato de Cálcio (6% i.a), Bluprins® (7% p.c) + Nitrato de Cálcio (6% i.a), Bluprins® (7% p.c.), Extrato de Alho (5% i.a) e Dormex® (3,5% p.c). Foram avaliadas brotação, variáveis produtivas, arquitetura de cachos e maturação tecnológica. As variáveis foram submetidas à análise de variância (ANOVA) e as com efeito significativo de tratamento, procedeu-se o teste a comparação de médias pelo Teste Tukey a 5% de probabilidade de erro. A aplicação de indutores de brotação na videira ‘Bordô’ resultam aumento do percentual de brotação, aumento da produção e produtividade, além de resultar em aumento da massa de cachos e número de bagas cacho-1. No entanto, em função do aumento da produção planta-1, a maturação foi mais tardia em plantas submetidas a aplicação de indutores de brotação. Conclui-se que a videira ‘Bordô’ cultivada no Planalto Norte Catarinense deve-se realizar a indução de brotação, recomendando-se a aplicação de Dormex® (3,5%) e Extrato de Alho (5%).

Abstract Background Solo medical practices in primary healthcare delivery have been abandoned in favor of interdisciplinary teamwork in most Western countries. Dynamics in interdisciplinary teams might however be particularly difficult when two or more autonomous health professionals develop similar roles at the practice level. This is the case of family physicians (FPs) and nurse practitioners (NPs), due to the fact that the latter might accomplish not only the traditional role proper to a nurse, but also several medical activities such as requesting diagnostic exams and prescribing medical treatments. The tensions that this overlap might generate and their implications in regard of the development of professional identities, and consequently of the quality of health care delivered, have been suggested, but rarely examined empirically. The goal of this study is to examine identity work, i.e., the processes of (re)construction of professional identities, of NPs and FPs working together in primary care interdisciplinary teams. Methods A longitudinal, interpretive, and comparative multiple (n = 2) case study is proposed. Identity work theory in organizations is adopted as theoretical perspective. Cases are urban primary care multidisciplinary teams from two different Canadian provinces: Quebec and Ontario. Participants are NPs, FPs, managers, and patients. Data gathering involves audio-diaries, individual semi-structured and focus group interviews, observations, and archival material. Narrative and metaphor techniques are adopted for analyzing data collected. Within- and cross-case analysis will be performed. Discussion For practice, the results of this investigation will: (a) be instrumental for clinicians, primary care managers, and policy decision-makers responsible for the implementation of interdisciplinary teamwork in primary healthcare delivery to improve decision-making processes and primary care team performance over time; (b) inform continuing interdisciplinary professional development educational initiatives that support competency in health professionals’ identity construction in interdisciplinary primary care organizations. For research, the project will contribute to enriching theory about identity construction dynamics in health professions, both in the fields of health services and primary care education research.

Hypostomus khimaera Tencatt, Zawadzki & Fröehlich, 2014 is a species native to the rio Paraguay basin, but it is recorded here from the upper rio Paraná basin for the first time. Our new record was made in the córrego Mimoso, a tributary of the rio Anhanduí, approximately 180 km from the closest previously reported locality. We are unsure whether the occurrence of this species in the upper rio Paraná basin is a consequence of natural phenomena, such as headwater connection during floods or stream capture, or an artificial introduction. Together with the invasive H. cochliodon Kner, 1854, H. khimaera is the second species of the H. cochliodon group recorded in the upper rio Paraná basin. Here, we provide an updated diagnosis of H. khimaera and highlight the differences in opercle exposition as the easiest way to differentiate it from the syntopic and morphologically similar H. cochliodon.

Abstract Background Complex social determinants of health may not be easily recognized by health care providers and pose a unique challenge in the vulnerable pediatric population where patients may not be able to advocate for themselves. The goal of this study was to examine the acceptability and feasibility of health care providers using an integrated brief pediatric screening tool in primary care and hospital settings. Methods The framework of the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) and Pediatric Intermed tools was used to inform the selection of items for the 9-item Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths-Pediatric Complexity Indicator (CANS-PCI). The tool consisted of three domains: biological, psychological, and social. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with health care providers in pediatric medical facilities in Ottawa, Canada. A low inference and iterative thematic synthesis approach was used to analyze the qualitative interview data specific to acceptability and feasibility. Results Thirteen health care providers participated in interviews. Six overarching themes were identified: acceptability, logistics, feasibility, pros/cons, risk, and privacy. Overall, participants agreed that a routine, trained provider-led pediatric tool for the screening of social determinants of health is important (n = 10, 76.9%), acceptable (n = 11; 84.6%), and feasible (n = 7, 53.8%). Interpretation Though the importance of social determinants of health are widely recognized, there are limited systematic methods of assessing, describing, and communicating amongst health care providers about the biomedical and psychosocial complexities of pediatric patients. Based on this study’s findings, implementation of a brief provider-led screening tool into pediatric care practices may contribute to this gap.

IntroductionChildren with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) participated in a randomized clinical trial comparing animal-assisted intervention (AAI) to psychosocial treatment as usual (TAU). This brief report describes effects of AAI on acute HPA axis reactivity and regulation. Saliva was collected before, during, and after psychosocial intervention sessions with and without therapy dogs and later assayed for cortisol (ug/dL).MethodologyThirty-nine participants (n = 39) with ADHD, aged 7-9 years (79% male) provided saliva at 3 points during 90-minute sessions; (i) upon arrival, (ii) +20 minutes, and (iii) 15 minutes prior to departure, on 3 occasions across an 8-week intervention (weeks 1, 4, and 8). Cortisol slopes calculated within each session were compared across the intervention weeks to determine within subject and between group effect sizes. Spearman’s correlations between baseline individual neurodevelopmental symptoms and in-session acute cortisol responses were also evaluated.ResultsNo significant between group differences were observed in cortisol responsiveness at week-1. By week-4, in-session changes in cortisol were evident, with significantly greater decreases in the AAI group (Cohen’s d = -.40). This pattern was also observed at week-8, with an even stronger effect-size (d = -0.60). Concurrent symptoms of autism were associated with the in-session acute cortisol response. Specifically, higher parent-reported symptom scores were associated with steeper decreases in cortisol across the session at week 1 (r = -0.42, p

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito do aumento da carga de gemas sobre a qualidade físico-química dos vinhos elaborados com uvas 'Cabernet Franc' cultivadas na região de altitude de Santa Catarina. O presente trabalho foi conduzido durante a safra 2016/2017, em um vinhedo comercial, localizado no município de São Joaquim. Os tratamentos consistiram em quatro níveis de poda: 15, 30, 50 e 75 gemas planta. Após seis meses do processo de elaboração, as amostras de vinho foram comprovadas em triplicata quanto a acidez total (g L -1 ), açúcares redutores (g L -1 ), teor alcoólico (%), densidade relativa, extrato seco (g L -1 ), teor alcoólico (%) -1 ), cinzas (g L -1 ), pH, glicerol (g L -1 ), índice de polifenóis totais (IPT), antocianinas (mg L -1 ), intensidade de cor (420 + 520 + 620 nm) e tonalidade de cor (420/520nm). O aumento da carga de gemas testadas em vinhos com maiores teores de glicerol, acidez total, e pH. As cargas de 30 e 50 gemas plantadas resultaram em valores superiores de cinzas e extrato seco. O aumento da carga de gemas, acima de 50 gemas plantadas, foi calculado em redução do índice de polifenóis totais dos vinhos. Os valores de intensidade de cor e maiores variações de cor foram distribuídos em cargas de 30 e 50 gemas planta.

A realização de análises físico-químicas é necessária para se ter avaliação dos padrões adequados dos vinhos. Nesse contexto, tem-se como objetivo desse trabalho realizar a caracterização físico-química de amostras de Vinhos de Mesa Rosé elaborados no Planalto Norte Catarinense. O presente trabalho foi realizado com vinhos elaborados na safra 2022, no Laboratório de Fruticultura do Instituto Federal de Santa Catarina – Campus Canoinhas, sendo realizada a caracterização físico-química. Ao todo coletou-se oito amostras de vinhos dessa categoria, provenientes dos municípios de Itaiópolis, Canoinhas, Papanduva e São Bento do Sul. Avaliou-se: acidez total, pH, densidade relativa, sólidos solúveis, intensidade de cor e tonalidade de cor. Os dados foram digitados, tabulados e com auxílio do software Excel 2010 realizou-se a elaboração das tabelas para a realização de uma análise descritiva dos dados obtidos nas amostras avaliadas. Os dados referentes à caracterização do perfil físico-químico de Vinhos de Mesa Rosé, demonstram o potencial do Planalto Norte Catarinense para a elaboração de vinhos. Os valores observados estão em acordo com a legislação vigente, contudo, faz-se necessário aperfeiçoar métodos de elaboração, especialmente relacionado a intensidade e tonalidade de cor dos vinhos, que no presente estudo apresentaram uma elevada desuniformidade entre as amostras.

Polymerase β (POLB), with dual functionality as a lyase and polymerase, plays a critical role in the base excision repair (BER) pathway to maintain genomic stability. POLB knockout and rescue studies in BRCA1/2-mutant cancer cell lines revealed that inhibition of lyase and polymerase activity is required for the synthetic lethal interaction observed with PARP inhibitors, highlighting POLB as a valuable therapeutic target. Traditional biochemical assays to screen for enzyme inhibitors focus on a single substrate to product relationship and limit the comprehensive analysis of enzymes such as POLB that utilize multiple substrates or catalyze a multi-step reaction. This report describes the first high-throughput mass spectrometry-based screen to measure the two distinct biochemical activities of POLB in a single assay using a duplexed self-assembled monolayer desorption ionization (SAMDI) mass spectrometry methodology. A multiplexed assay for POLB dual enzymatic activities was developed optimizing for kinetically balanced conditions and a collection of 200,000 diverse small molecules was screened in the duplexed format. Small molecule modulators identified in the screen were confirmed in a traditional fluorescence-based polymerase strand-displacement assay and an orthogonal label-free binding assay using SAMDI affinity selection mass spectrometry (ASMS). This work demonstrates the flexibility of high-throughput mass spectrometry approaches in drug discovery and highlights a novel application of SAMDI technology that opens new avenues for multiplexed high-throughput screening.

Na videira, o balanço entre a carga de frutas e a área foliar adequadamente iluminada influência na quantidade e na qualidade da produção, sendo necessário em alguns casos, a realização do manejo do dossel vegetativo. Nesse contexto, objetiva-se com este trabalho avaliar a influência do manejo do dossel vegetativo na qualidade da videira ‘Bordô’, através dos seguintes tratamentos: T1 - sem manejo de desfolha e sem desponte; T2 - sem manejo da desfolha e com desponte; T3 - com manejo da desfolha e sem desponte; T4 - com manejo da desfolha e com desponte. O trabalho foi realizado no munício de Canoinhas - SC, durante o ciclo 2022/2023, em um delineamento de blocos ao acaso, com quatro repetições e dez plantas por parcela. As bagas provenientes do T1 apresentaram, em média, o menor teor de sólidos solúveis (12,9 °Brix), maior valor para acidez titulável (133,1 meq/L) e menor valor para pH (3,23), porém não diferiram do T4 em nenhuma das variáveis. A ausência de poda verde e o manejo da desfolha e desponte não favoreceram as variáveis relacionadas à maturação. As bagas oriundas do T2 apresentaram teor de sólidos solúveis (14,2 °Brix) superior aos T1 e T4, acidez menor que T1 e T4 (116,3 meq/L) e pH 3,30, portanto o desponte favoreceu a qualidade das uvas, em comparação com a testemunha e o tratamento com desponte e desfolha. Os melhores resultados foram constatados no T3, com 15,2 °Brix, 108,9 meq/L de acidez e pH de 3,39. Conclui-se que a prática da desfolha no estádio fenológico de grão chumbinho favorece a maturação e qualidade das uvas.

IMPORTANCE:. A time-limited trial (TLT) is a collaborative plan among clinicians, patients, and families to use life-sustaining therapy for a defined duration, after which the patient’s response informs whether to continue care directed toward recovery or shift the focus toward comfort. TLTs are a promising approach to help navigate uncertainty in critical illness, yet little is known about their current use. OBJECTIVES:. To characterize TLT use in patients with acute respiratory failure (ARF). DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS:. Prospective 12-month observational cohort study at an U.S. academic medical center of adult ICU patients with ARF receiving invasive mechanical ventilation for greater than or equal to 48 hours. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES:. Primary exposure was TLT participation, identified by patients’ ICU physician. Patient characteristics, care delivery elements, and hospital outcomes were extracted from the electronic medical record. RESULTS:. Among 176 eligible patients, 36 (20.5%) participated in a TLT. Among 18 ICU attending physicians, nine (50%) participated in greater than or equal to 1 TLT (frequency 0–39% of patients cared for). Median TLT duration was 3.0 days (interquartile range [IQR], 3.0–4.5 d). TLT patients had a higher mean age (67.4 yr [sd, 12.0 yr] vs. 60.0 yr [sd, 16.0 yr]; p < 0.01), higher Charlson Comorbidity Index (5.1 [sd, 2.2] vs. 3.8 [sd, 2.6]; p < 0.01), and similar Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score (9.6 [sd, 3.3] vs. 9.5 [sd, 3.7]; p = 0.93), compared with non-TLT patients. TLT patients were more likely to die or be discharged to hospice (80.6% vs. 42.1%; p < 0.05) and had shorter ICU length of stay (median, 5.7 d [IQR, 4.0–9.0 d] vs. 10.3 d [IQR, 5.5–14.5 d]; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE:. In this study, approximately one in five patients with ARF participated in a TLT. Our findings suggest TLTs are used primarily in patients near end of life but with substantial physician variation, highlighting a need for evidence to guide optimal use.

Current surgical treatments for segmental bone loss do not reliably result in healing, typically necessitate multiple surgeries, and may result in amputation. Although we have demonstrated that polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) scaffolds can regenerate large critical size bone defects, the material is non-resorbable and may lead to problems including acting as a nidus for infection. New strategies have emerged that use resorbable polymers, ceramics, and composite materials to produce patient specific scaffolds that stimulate rapid bone formation without retention of foreign material. This work describes the production of a composite polymer ceramic material composed of polylactic acid (PLA) and tricalcium phosphate (TCP) that can be used with additive manufacturing techniques to rapidly produce scaffolds with custom geometries. The technique we describe can be used to produce composite materials with a ratio of up to 50-50 PLA-TCP that is suitable for fused deposition modeling and does not necessitate the use of solvents. In this study the properties of PBT, PLA, 75-25 PLA-TCP, and 50-50 PLA-TCP materials are compared. PLA and PLA-TCP materials had a higher compressive elastic modulus compared to PBT, while composite PLA-TCP materials had a higher tensile elastic modulus compared to PLA and PBT. Cell culture experiments demonstrated that all materials were non-toxic to cells. Optimal printing parameters are provided for using pure polymer and composite materials for fused deposition modeling. The results of this study demonstrate that resorbable polymer ceramic materials with a high ceramic composition can be produced for additive manufacturing without necessitating solvents.

Despite the rapid growth in online and distance learning in Canada, there does not appear to be much interest on the part of teacher education programs to evolve to meet the needs of future generations of teacher candidates. While understanding the notion that systemic change in tertiary education takes time, the steady growth of online and blended learning in Canada–and globally–combined with raised awareness of distance learning stoked by the COVID-19 pandemic should make educators and policymakers worry about failing to respond to a rapidly changing educational landscape. This paper highlights the status of distance and online field experiences provided by Canadian teacher education programs. In addition, we review program offerings to support in-service teachers, such as graduate certificate, degree, and diploma programs, as well as MOOCs offering free professional development. This study, a replication of a mixed-method study originally conducted in the United States and published as a technical report by Archibald et al. (2020)[1], found that a minority of teacher education programs offered online or blended field experiences. Further, we found that programs were slow to change these deficiencies due to institutional lack of resources, limited knowledge base, perceived lack of usefulness for their teachers’ future careers, and regulatory bodies discouraging online field experiences. This study highlights the dramatic need for programming in distance and online education. [1] This article is original, with some exceptions in the “Results” section.

ABSTRACT Molecular biology, broadly defined as the investigation of complex biomolecules in the laboratory, is a rapidly advancing field and as such the technologies available to investigators are constantly evolving. This constant advancement has obvious advantages because it allows students and researchers to perform more complex experiments in shorter periods of time. One challenge with such a rapidly advancing field is that techniques that had been vital for students to learn how to perform are now not essential for a laboratory scientist. For example, while cloning a gene in the past could have led to a publication and form the bulk of a PhD thesis project, technology has now made this process only a step toward one of these larger goals and can, in many cases, be performed by a company or core facility. As teachers and mentors, it is imperative that we understand that the technologies we teach in the lab and classroom must also evolve to match these advancements. In this perspective, we discuss how the rapid advances in gene synthesis technologies are affecting curriculum and how our classrooms should evolve to ensure our lessons prepare students for the world in which they will do science.

This publication provides blueberry growers strategies for choosing and applying fungicides and insecticides during bloom so as to minimize harm to pollinators. Insect pollinators, particularly wild and managed bees, are necessary to achieve adequate fruit set in blueberries. Without insect pollinators, berries may form, but they will be significantly smaller and misshapen and will take longer to ripen than bee-pollinated berries. Managed bees, wild bees, and other insect pollinators are susceptible to pesticides, especially when applied during bloom when pollinators are foraging in blueberry fields. Growers thus must balance disease and pest protection with pollinator protection. This publication provides information on the toxicity to pollinators and residual activity of insecticides and fungicides used during blueberry bloom, and strategies for minimizing pollinator exposure.

O artigo apresenta o aplicativo que está sendo construído junto às Organizações de Catadoras/es de Materiais Recicláveis (OCMR) do Alto Pantanal Mato-Grossense. O objetivo é analisar dados de campo, identificando os desafios pelo método da pesquisa-ação suportada pela técnica bibliográfica, descritiva, diagnóstico socioeconômico e entrevistas junto aos sujeitos da pesquisa. Espera-se que o aplicativo aprimore processos de comercialização direta entre as OCMR e as indústrias que adquirem os materiais recicláveis fortalecendo o poder de barganha das OCMR. Palavras-chave: Aplicativo; Associação; Cooperativa; Resíduos Sólidos.

Abstract Cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS) is an essential metabolic enzyme across all domains of life for the production of glutathione, cysteine, and hydrogen sulfide. Appended to the conserved catalytic domain of human CBS is a regulatory domain that modulates activity by S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) and promotes oligomerisation. Here we show using cryo-electron microscopy that full-length human CBS in the basal and SAM-bound activated states polymerises as filaments mediated by a conserved regulatory domain loop. In the basal state, CBS regulatory domains sterically block the catalytic domain active site, resulting in a low-activity filament with three CBS dimers per turn. This steric block is removed when in the activated state, one SAM molecule binds to the regulatory domain, forming a high-activity filament with two CBS dimers per turn. These large conformational changes result in a central filament of SAM-stabilised regulatory domains at the core, decorated with highly flexible catalytic domains. Polymerisation stabilises CBS and reduces thermal denaturation. In PC-3 cells, we observed nutrient-responsive CBS filamentation that disassembles when methionine is depleted and reversed in the presence of SAM. Together our findings extend our understanding of CBS enzyme regulation, and open new avenues for investigating the pathogenic mechanism and therapeutic opportunities for CBS-associated disorders.

Abstract A regulated stress response is essential for healthy child growth and development trajectories. We conducted a cluster-randomized trial in rural Bangladesh (funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT01590095) to assess the effects of an integrated nutritional, water, sanitation, and handwashing intervention on child health. We previously reported on the primary outcomes of the trial, linear growth and caregiver-reported diarrhea. Here, we assessed additional prespecified outcomes: physiological stress response, oxidative stress, and DNA methylation (N = 759, ages 1–2 years). Eight neighboring pregnant women were grouped into a study cluster. Eight geographically adjacent clusters were block-randomized into the control or the combined nutrition, water, sanitation, and handwashing (N + WSH) intervention group (receiving nutritional counseling and lipid-based nutrient supplements, chlorinated drinking water, upgraded sanitation, and handwashing with soap). Participants and data collectors were not masked, but analyses were masked. There were 358 children (68 clusters) in the control group and 401 children (63 clusters) in the intervention group. We measured four F2-isoprostanes isomers (iPF(2α)-III; 2,3-dinor-iPF(2α)-III; iPF(2α)-VI; 8,12-iso-iPF(2α)-VI), salivary alpha-amylase and cortisol, and methylation of the glucocorticoid receptor (NR3C1) exon 1F promoter including the NGFI-A binding site. Compared with control, the N + WSH group had lower concentrations of F2-isoprostanes isomers (differences ranging from −0.16 to −0.19 log ng/mg of creatinine, P

Abstract The epidermal growth factor receptor, EGFR, is frequently activated in lung cancer and glioblastoma by genomic alterations including missense mutations. The different mutation spectra in these diseases are reflected in divergent responses to EGFR inhibition: significant patient benefit in lung cancer, but limited in glioblastoma. Here, we report a comprehensive mutational analysis of EGFR function. We perform saturation mutagenesis of EGFR and assess function of ~22,500 variants in a human EGFR-dependent lung cancer cell line. This approach reveals enrichment of erlotinib-insensitive variants of known and unknown significance in the dimerization, transmembrane, and kinase domains. Multiple EGFR extracellular domain variants, not associated with approved targeted therapies, are sensitive to afatinib and dacomitinib in vitro. Two glioblastoma patients with somatic EGFR G598V dimerization domain mutations show responses to dacomitinib treatment followed by within-pathway resistance mutation in one case. In summary, this comprehensive screen expands the landscape of functional EGFR variants and suggests broader clinical investigation of EGFR inhibition for cancers harboring extracellular domain mutations.

This commentary provides a detailed overview of the extensive stakeholder engagement efforts critical to the development of the Future of Cancer Impact (FOCI) in Alberta report. The overarching aim of the FOCI report was to support informed and strategic discussions and actions that will help key stakeholders in the province prepare for a future with increasing cancer incidence and survival. Employing a comprehensive approach and a diverse range of engagement activities, insights from a wide spectrum of stakeholders were gathered and subsequently used to shape the content of the report. This inclusive process ensured broad representation of perspectives, contributing to a deeper understanding of the complexities in cancer care. The outcome is a robust, consensus-driven report with recommendations set to drive significant transformations within the healthcare system. These efforts highlight the critical role of extensive, inclusive, and collaborative engagement in shaping healthcare initiatives and advancing discussions crucial for the future of cancer care in Alberta.

Abstract Introduction In the phase 3 TACKLE study, outpatient treatment with AZD7442 (tixagevimab/cilgavimab) was well tolerated and significantly reduced progression to severe disease or death through day 29 in adults with mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) at the primary analysis. Here, we report data from the final analysis of the TACKLE study, performed after approximately 15 months’ follow-up. Methods Eligible participants were randomized 1:1 and dosed within 7 days of symptom onset with 600 mg intramuscular AZD7442 (n = 456; 300 mg tixagevimab/300 mg cilgavimab) or placebo (n = 454). Results Severe COVID-19 or death through day 29 occurred in 4.4% and 8.8% of participants who received AZD7442 or placebo, a relative risk reduction (RRR) of 50.4% [95% confidence interval (CI) 14.4, 71.3; p = 0.0096]; among participants dosed within 5 days of symptom onset, the RRR was 66.9% (95% CI 31.1, 84.1; p = 0.002). Death from any cause or hospitalization for COVID-19 complications or sequelae through day 169 occurred in 5.0% of participants receiving AZD7442 versus 9.7% receiving placebo, an RRR of 49.2% (95% CI 14.7, 69.8; p = 0.009). Adverse events occurred in 55.5% and 55.9% of participants who received AZD7442 or placebo, respectively, and were mostly mild or moderate in severity. Serious adverse events occurred in 10.2% and 14.4% of participants who received AZD7442 or placebo, respectively, and deaths occurred in 1.8% of participants in both groups. Serum concentration–time profiles recorded over 457 days were similar for AZD7442, tixagevimab, and cilgavimab, and were consistent with the extended half-life reported for AZD7442 (approx. 90 days). Conclusions AZD7442 reduced the risk of progression to severe COVID-19, hospitalization, and death, was well tolerated through 15 months, and exhibited predictable pharmacokinetics in outpatients with mild-to-moderate COVID-19. These data support the long-term safety of using long-acting monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID-19. Trial Registration Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04723394. ( https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT04723394 .

In soils, pH stands as the main factor modulating bacterial communities’ composition. However, most studies address its effects in bulk soils in natural systems, with few focusing on its effects in the rhizosphere of plants. Predicting pH effects in the rhizosphere is an important step towards successful microbiome manipulation, aiming to increase crop production. Here, we modulated an acidic soil’s pH to four different ranges (4.7, 5.2, 7.5 and 8.2), while correcting for fertility differences among ranges, thus isolating pH effects from other physicochemical characteristics. Then, two crops with distinct metabolisms (maize and bean) were cultivated in a greenhouse experiment and the effects of pH and cover crops on the rhizosphere bacteriome after 90 days explored through 16S rRNA gene sequencing, aiming to characterize pH effects on the rhizosphere of two different plants across this gradient. Alpha diversity indexes (OTU richness and Shannon index) were statistically different with pH but not crop species, with an interaction among factors. For beta diversity, both pH and crop species were significant modulators of community composition, without an interaction, but pH effects were 2.5 times bigger than those of plant species. Additionally, strong and significant positive correlations were observed between pH and Bacteroidetes and Deltaproteobacteria, while Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes and Acidobacteria were negatively correlated with pH. Regarding OTUs, 27 and 46 were correlated with pH in maize and bean’s rhizosphere, respectively, while 11 were shared between them. Altogether, these results provide valuable information on the isolated effect of pH in the rhizosphere of important crop plants, aiding future microbiome manipulation studies.

Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) offers the promise of being able to provide additional insight into complex hydrological problems. As the “new kid on the block”, these methods are embraced enthusiastically and often viewed as offering something radically new and different. However, upon closer inspection, many XAI approaches are very similar to more “traditional” methods of “interrogating” existing models, such as sensitivity or break-even analysis. In fact, the approach of developing data-driven models to obtain a better understanding of hydrological processes to inform the development of more physics-based models is as old as hydrology itself. Consequently, rather than being considered a new approach, XAI should be viewed as part of a long-standing tradition, and XAI methods part of an ever-expanding hydrological modelling toolkit, rather than a silver bullet. Critically, there needs to be shift from focusing on how to best eXplain what AI models have learnt (i.e., the X component of XAI) to developing models that are able to capture relationships that are contained within the data in a robust and reliable fashion (i.e., the AI component of XAI), as there is little value in explaining AI-derived relationships if these do not reflect underlying hydrological processes. However, this is often not the case due to a focus on maximising the predictive ability of AI models “at all costs”, not uncommonly resulting in large models that often have thousands or even millions of parameters that are not well defined. Consequently, these models generally do not capture underlying hydrological processes in a robust and reliable fashion. Finally, there is also a need to stop thinking about XAI as a purely technical approach, but a socio-technical approach that views XAI as a process that can assist with solving problems that are situated within broader social and political contexts.

AbstractWithin the context of globalization, social workers need to ensure that international-level professional knowledge and practice do not lead to the oppression of the local people that the profession seeks to serve. One of the challenges for social workers is how to negotiate the sometimes-competing definitions and demands of local and cultural norms versus global and international laws. In this study, we used qualitative methods to explore those instances that bring to the fore the contentions between cultural and legal rights in child welfare cases in Ghana. Evidence from the study revealed that these social workers were faced with three main instances where conflict usually arose when navigating between the law and the culture of the people: (a) child custody disputes, (b) child paternity tests, and (c) child marriage. One of the key findings is that social workers adopt a benefit-emphasis approach to sensitise families and communities about the benefits of the legal requirements that guide and protect children. In doing so, they try to avoid any form of condemnation or attack on the norms and values of the people. The importance of this approach lies in its tact to de-emphasize the need to label right or wrong and emphasize the benefits of, for instance, educating the girl child for the family. We argue that using the benefit-emphasis approach is a key strategy for negotiating cultural and legal demands in child protection cases in Ghana.

Abstract Springtails (Collembola) inhabit soils from the Arctic to the Antarctic and comprise an estimated ~32% of all terrestrial arthropods on Earth. Here, we present a global, spatially-explicit database on springtail communities that includes 249,912 occurrences from 44,999 samples and 2,990 sites. These data are mainly raw sample-level records at the species level collected predominantly from private archives of the authors that were quality-controlled and taxonomically-standardised. Despite covering all continents, most of the sample-level data come from the European continent (82.5% of all samples) and represent four habitats: woodlands (57.4%), grasslands (14.0%), agrosystems (13.7%) and scrublands (9.0%). We included sampling by soil layers, and across seasons and years, representing temporal and spatial within-site variation in springtail communities. We also provided data use and sharing guidelines and R code to facilitate the use of the database by other researchers. This data paper describes a static version of the database at the publication date, but the database will be further expanded to include underrepresented regions and linked with trait data.

Objetivo: Describir los hallazgos imagenológicos en radiografías de tórax y ecografías pulmonares de pacientes con síndrome post-COVID-19. Métodos: estudio descriptivo, prospectivo y transversal que incluyó pacientes con síndrome post-COVID-19, sometidos a radiografías de tórax y ecografías pulmonares en el Servicio de Neumonología Clínica del Hospital Dr. José Ignacio Baldo, entre enero y octubre de 2022, con la finalidad de establecer su evolución imagenológica pulmonar. Se utilizó estadística descriptiva, chi-cuadrado de Pearson y prueba kappa de concordancia, considerando significativo un valor de p < 0,05. Resultados: La muestra consistió en 58 pacientes con una edad media de 55 ± 13 años, predominando el sexo femenino (58,6%). El 60,3% mostró alteraciones en la radiografía de tórax; un 74,3% con patrón intersticial bilateral y un 25,7% con patrón intersticial unilateral. La ecografía reveló patrón intersticial en el 43,1% de los casos y se observaron dos microconsolidaciones subpleurales. Conclusiones: Las radiografías de tórax y las ecografías pulmonares son herramientas imagenológicas eficaces, accesibles y económicas para detectar alteraciones en pacientes con síndrome post-COVID-19.

Abstract Long‐term experiments are critical for understanding ecological processes, but their management comes with unique challenges. As time passes, projects may encounter unavoidable changes due to external factors, like availability of materials, affecting aspects of their research methodology. At the Kellogg Biological Station Long‐Term Ecological Research Site, one of the many National Science Foundation‐funded long‐term research stations, a three‐decade project recently experienced a supply‐chain‐induced change in insect sampling methodology in their lady beetle observation study. Since 1989, lady beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) have been sampled weekly over the growing season using yellow sticky cards. In 2021, the original sticky traps were discontinued by the manufacturer and replaced with a similar, but not identical trap. We conducted a 3‐year study while the new traps were phased in to examine how the trap change would impact the observed biodiversity patterns at the site. We examined community metrics and individual taxa captures to examine within‐year and between‐year differences in performance between the card types. Overall, we noted several small but statistically detectable differences in capture patterns between the two trap types. After accounting for other sources of variation, we observed a difference in Shannon diversity of insects captured on the two card types, but not richness or abundance, for the overall insect community. Yet, these differences were dwarfed by the magnitude of difference observed between years within card types. For individual taxa, similar patterns held: between trap differences could be detected statistically, but the number of differences in capture rate between trap types was less than the number of differences observed for the same trap, between years. Thus, we conclude that while subtle changes in methodology could impact data produced in long‐term experiments; in this case, the magnitude of this change is smaller than other factors such as time and plant treatment. However, if sustained changes in the capture rates of focal taxa are observed, future data users may use our observations to specifically quantify and correct for these shifting patterns related to the protocol change.

Abstract Despite presenting several advantages in relation to the mortar coating performed by hand labor traditionally carried out in Brazil, there is little knowledge available about mortar pumping systems. Thus, selecting a mortar pump system is not a trivial procedure, and there are no significative studies published in the specialized literature to fully understand the decision criteria applying to this equipment selection. Therefore, the present study aimed to identify the relevant criteria and quantify their importance in the selection of this equipment, by developing a framework combining both mortar pump specialists expertise and fuzzy analytic hierarchy process method to aid this decision making process. Results showed that acquisition cost and quality are the most relevant criteria, representing togheter around 2/3 of the decision weight, while technical and operational aspects account for aproximatelly 1/10 of relevance in the equipment selection.

Abstract A taxonomic review of Triportheus from the Paraná-Paraguai basin was conducted, with four valid species recognized: two natives, one introduced in the upper rio Paraná basin, and one new species described herein. Redescriptions, including osteological characters and detailed coloration patterns, are presented for all recognized species. An update on the distribution of Triportheus species in the Paraná-Paraguai basin is provided, along with discussions regarding introductions in the upper rio Paraná basin and hypothesis of occurrences. In this context, a key for the identification of Triportheus species from the rios Paraná-Paraguai basin is also provided.

ABSTRACT Piperaquine (PPQ) is widely used in combination with dihydroartemisinin as a first-line treatment against malaria. Multiple genetic drivers of PPQ resistance have been reported, including mutations in the Plasmodium falciparum chloroquine resistance transporter (pfcrt) and increased copies of plasmepsin II/III (pm2/3). We generated a cross between a Cambodia-derived multidrug-resistant KEL1/PLA1 lineage isolate (KH004) and a drug-susceptible Malawian parasite (Mal31). Mal31 harbors a wild-type (3D7-like) pfcrt allele and a single copy of pm2/3, while KH004 has a chloroquine-resistant (Dd2-like) pfcrt allele with an additional G367C substitution and multiple copies of pm2/3. We recovered 104 unique recombinant parasites and examined a targeted set of progeny representing all possible combinations of variants at pfcrt and pm2/3. We performed a detailed analysis of competitive fitness and a range of PPQ susceptibility phenotypes with these progenies, including PPQ survival assay, area under the dose response curve, and a limited point IC50. We find that inheritance of the KH004 pfcrt allele is required for reduced PPQ sensitivity, whereas copy number variation in pm2/3 further decreases susceptibility but does not confer resistance in the absence of additional mutations in pfcrt. A deep investigation of genotype-phenotype relationships demonstrates that progeny clones from experimental crosses can be used to understand the relative contributions of pfcrt, pm2/3, and parasite genetic background to a range of PPQ-related traits. Additionally, we find that the resistance phenotype associated with parasites inheriting the G367C substitution in pfcrt is consistent with previously validated PPQ resistance mutations in this transporter.IMPORTANCEResistance to piperaquine, used in combination with dihydroartemisinin, has emerged in Cambodia and threatens to spread to other malaria-endemic regions. Understanding the causal mutations of drug resistance and their impact on parasite fitness is critical for surveillance and intervention and can also reveal new avenues to limiting the evolution and spread of drug resistance. An experimental genetic cross is a powerful tool for pinpointing the genetic determinants of key drug resistance and fitness phenotypes and has the distinct advantage of quantifying the effects of naturally evolved genetic variation. Our study was strengthened since the full range of copies of KH004 pm2/3 was inherited among the progeny clones, allowing us to directly test the role of the pm2/3 copy number on resistance-related phenotypes in the context of a unique pfcrt allele. Our multigene model suggests an important role for both loci in the evolution of this multidrug-resistant parasite lineage.

Abstract The firn layer covers 98% of Antarctica's ice sheets, protecting underlying glacial ice from the external environment. Accurate measurement of firn properties is essential for assessing cryosphere mass balance and climate change impacts. Characterizing firn structure through core sampling is expensive and logistically challenging. Seismic surveys, which translate seismic velocities into firn densities, offer an efficient alternative. This study employs Distributed Acoustic Sensing technology to transform an existing fiber‐optic cable near the South Pole into a multichannel, low‐maintenance, continuously interrogated seismic array. The data resolve 16 seismic wave propagation modes at frequencies up to 100 Hz that constrain P and S wave velocities as functions of depth. Using co‐located geophones for ambient noise interferometry, we resolve very weak radial anisotropy. Leveraging nearby SPICEcore firn density data, we find prior empirical density‐velocity relationships underestimate firn air content by over 15%. We present a new empirical relationship for the South Pole region.

Several federal, state, and local government offices and agencies offer assistance and resources to Florida blueberry growers. These include the University of Florida and IFAS Extension, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), and various Florida water management districts. This publication summarizes some of the resources and assistance available from each of these agencies, along with website links as a starting point for growers to use in learning more about and accessing that assistance.

José Raimundo Barreto Trindade, Coordenador do Observatório Paraense do Mercado de Trabalho (OPAMET), docente do Programa de Pós-Graduação e da Faculdade de Economia da Universidade Federal do Pará, é o autor do livro “A Disputa das Ideias na Atual Conjuntura: Neoliberalismo, Resistência e Redes Sociais”. O livro possui um acervo de artigos publicados em sites de concepções da esquerda democrática, durante os anos de 2019 a 2021, que contribuíram para o arcabouço necessário à construção da percepção analisada pelo título do livro, a conjuntura atual. Os textos refletem uma projeção otimista orientada à execução de um plano nacional e sustentação da civilização dos próximos anos, com uma perspectiva analítica e ativa socialmente.