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Introduction Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a common sexually transmitted infection often associated with cancer development. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of HPV in women receiving care at the AUNA healthcare network in Peru. Methods We conducted an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional, retrospective study. A de-identified database of HPV-positive women who underwent the BD Onclarity™ HPV Assay between December 2018 and December 2021 at Auna clinics was analyzed. The database contained information regarding age, city, and HPV type. High-risk HPV types were analyzed individually (16, 18, 31, 45, 51, 52) and pooled [P1 (33, 58), P2 (56,59,66), and P3 (35,39,68)]. The study was approved by an independent research ethics committee in Peru. Results Of 68,714 women included in the study, the HPV prevalence was 14.21% (N = 9765, 95%CI:13.95%–14.47%). The highest prevalence was detected in Piura (16.85%, 95%CI:15.40%–18.38%), where HPV-51, HPV-52, HPV-P1, HPV-P2, and HPV-P3 were most common compared to other Peruvian cities included in the study. In Arequipa, the prevalence was the lowest (13.58%, 95%CI:12.38%–14.85%), but the percentage prevalence of HPV-16 was the highest compared to other cities. The prevalence of multiple HPV infections was 2.88% (N = 1981, 95%CI:2.76%–3.01%), with most of them co-presenting two types of HPV (N = 1522). The most frequent co-occurrences were P2 and P3, P2 and 52, and P2 and 16. Among HPV-positive women, the mean age was 41.31 years (±9.48) and 25.29% were in the 31–35 years group. HPV-P2 was the most frequent in all age groups except in the 65–72 years group, where HPV-P3 was the most common. Conclusion HPV prevalence was shown to be highest in Piura, with the most prevalent types being HPV-16, HPV-52, and HPV-P2 (HPV-56, -59, -66). HPV infection was found to be more frequent among women in the 31–35 years age group.

Abstract The genomic characteristics of Peruvian patients with gastric adenocarcinoma from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds were examined in consideration of the possibility that patients from different socioeconomic backgrounds may be exposed to different risk factors. We conducted a prospective pilot study in two Peruvian cities (Lima and Ica). This study enrolled 15 patients from low socioeconomic status (LSES) and 15 patients from medium/high socioeconomic status (MHSES). The genomic profiling of gastric adenocarcinoma samples was done through the FoundationOne CDx platform. We compared the genomic characteristics and the need for targeted therapy and immunotherapy between LSES and MHSES. The genes with higher rates of alterations were TP53 (73.3% vs. 50.0%, P = 0.2635); CDH1 (26.7% vs. 28.6%, P = 1); CDKN2A (20.0% vs. 28.6%, P = 1); KRAS (33.3% vs. 7.1%, P = 0.1686); ARID1A (20.0% vs. 14.3%, P = 1); MLL2 (13.3% vs. 21.4%, P = 1) and SOX9 (33.3% vs. 0.0%, P = 0.0421) in LSES versus HMSES, respectively. There was no significant difference in tumor mutational burden (P = 0.377) or microsatellite status (P = 1). The LSES group had a higher need for targeted therapy or immunotherapy according to gene involvement and alterations. A significant genomic difference exists among patients with gastric adenocarcinoma of different socioeconomic status, which may result in a different need for targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

Abstract Under European Union legislation (Article 32, Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), the European Food Safety Authority provides an annual report assessing the pesticide residue levels in foods on the European market. In 2022, 96.3% of the overall 110,829 samples analysed fell below the maximum residue level (MRL), 3.7% exceeded this level, of which 2.2% were non‐compliant, i.e. results in a given sample exceeded the MRL after taking into account the measurement uncertainty. For the EU‐coordinated multiannual control programme subset, 11,727 samples were analysed of which 0.9% were non‐compliant. To assess acute and chronic risk to consumer health, dietary exposure to pesticide residues was estimated and compared with available health‐based guidance values (HBGV). Continuation of the probabilistic assessment methodology was consolidated to all pesticides listed in the 2022 EU Regulation providing the probability of a consumer being exposed to an exceedance of the HBGV. Overall, the assessed risk to EU consumer's health is low. Recommendations to risk managers are given to increase the effectiveness of European control systems and to ensure a high level of consumer protection throughout the EU.

Power output from wind turbines is influenced by wind speed, but the traditional theoretical power curve approach introduces uncertainty into wind energy forecasting models. This is because it assumes a consistent power output for a given wind speed. To address this issue, a new nonparametric method has been proposed. It uses K-means clustering to estimate wind speed intervals, applies kernel density estimation (KDE) to establish the probability density function (PDF) for each interval and employs Monte Carlo simulation to predict power output based on the PDF. The method was tested using data from the MERRA-2 database, covering five wind farms in Brazil. The results showed that the new method outperformed the conventional estimation technique, improving estimates by an average of 47 to 49%. This study contributes by (i) proposing a new nonparametric method for modeling the relationship between wind speed and power; (ii) emphasizing the superiority of probabilistic modeling in capturing the natural variability in wind generation; (iii) demonstrating the benefits of temporally segregating data; (iv) highlighting how different wind farms within the same region can have distinct generation profiles due to environmental and technical factors; and (v) underscoring the significance and reliability of the data provided by the MERRA-2 database.

Abstract Aiming at accelerating the implementation of cumulative risk assessment to pesticide residues, this report describes a two‐step prioritisation analysis, on individual pesticides and on target organ systems, that allows to identify (i) low‐priority substances expected to have a marginal contribution to cumulative risk, and (ii) high priority organ systems to be addressed in future cumulative risk assessments. The analysis encompassed 350 substances and 36 raw primary commodities of plant origin surveyed in the monitoring cycle 2019–2021, carried out in 30 population groups, covering 3 age classes, and 17 EU countries. Probabilistic exposure calculations, for chronic and acute effects, were executed on the occurrence and consumption data by a two‐dimensional procedure, modelling variability and uncertainty. In the first step, the prioritisation method adopted allowed to reduce the number of substances by about 80%. These substances were in turn grouped based on their capacity to cause toxicological effects on common organ systems and, as second step, probabilistic combined exposure calculations were carried out for 16 target organ systems. This step allowed to identify the organ systems that need further assessment, reducing their initial number by about 70%. The organ systems would need to be prioritised as follows: reproductive and developmental toxicity, liver, kidney, male reproductive system, and haematopoietic system and haematology. The sources of uncertainty stemming from the modelling procedure and from methodological assumptions were discussed and their impact qualitatively assessed. Overall, it was concluded that the risk estimates for the different organ systems were more likely to be overestimated than underestimated.

Abstract Under European Union legislation (Article 32, Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), EFSA is to provide an annual report assessing the pesticide residue levels in foods on the European market. In 2021, 96.1% of the overall 87,863 samples analysed fell below the maximum residue level (MRL), 3.9% exceeded this level, of which 2.5% were non‐compliant, i.e. samples exceeding the MRL after accounting for the measurement uncertainty. For the EU‐coordinated multiannual control programme subset, 13,845 samples were analysed of which 2.1% exceeded the MRL and 1.3% were non‐compliant. To assess acute and chronic risk to consumer health, dietary exposure to pesticide residues was estimated and compared with available health‐based guidance values (HBGVs). A new pilot methodology based on probabilistic assessment was introduced to provide the probability of subjects being expose to an exceedance of the HBGV. Recommendations to risk manager are given to increase the effectiveness of European control systems and to ensure a high level of consumer protection throughout the EU.

Abstract Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have attracted interest due to their ability to provide diagnostic information from liquid biopsies. Cells constantly release vesicles divers in size, content and features depending on the biogenesis, origin and function. This heterogeneity adds a layer of complexity when attempting to isolate and characterize EVs resulting in various protocols. Their high abundance in all bodily fluids and their stable source of origin dependent biomarkers make EVs a powerful tool in biomarker discovery and diagnostics. However, applications are limited by the quality of samples definition. Here, we compared frequently used isolation techniques: ultracentrifugation, density gradient centrifugation, ultrafiltration and size exclusion chromatography. Then, we aimed for a tissue-specific isolation of prostate-derived EVs from cell culture supernatants with immunomagnetic beads. Quality and quantity of EVs were confirmed by nanoparticle tracking analysis, western blot and electron microscopy. Additionally, a spotted antibody microarray was developed to characterize EV sub-populations. Current analysis of 16 samples on one microarray for 6 different EV surface markers in triplicate could be easily extended allowing a faster and more economical method to characterize samples.

Abstract Under European Union legislation (Article 32, Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), the EFSA provides an annual report which examines pesticide residue levels in foods on the European market. This report is based on data from the official national control activities carried out by EU Member States, Iceland and Norway and includes a subset of data from the EU‐coordinated control programme, which uses a randomised sampling strategy. For 2020, 94.9% of the overall 88,141 samples analysed fell below the maximum residue level (MRL), 5.1% exceeded this level, of which 3.6% were non‐compliant, i.e. samples exceeding the MRL after taking the measurement uncertainty into account. For the subset of 12,077 samples analysed as part of the EU‐coordinated multiannual control programme, 1.7% exceeded the MRL and 0.9% were non‐compliant. To assess acute and chronic risk to consumer health, dietary exposure to pesticide residues was estimated and compared with health‐based guidance values. Dietary exposure to pesticides for which health‐based guidance values were available is unlikely to pose a risk to EU consumer health. In the rare cases where dietary exposure for a specific pesticide/product combination was calculated to exceed the health‐based guidance value, and for those pesticides for which no health‐based guidance value could be established, the competent authorities took appropriate and proportionate corrective measures to address potential risks to consumers. Recommendations are proposed to increase the effectiveness of European control systems, thereby continuing to ensure a high level of consumer protection throughout the EU.

Abstract Under European Union legislation (Article 32, Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), the EFSA provides an annual report which examines pesticide residue levels in foods on the European market. This report is based on data from the official national control activities carried out by EU Member States, Iceland and Norway and includes a subset of data from the EU‐coordinated control programme which uses a randomised sampling strategy. For 2019, 96.1% of the overall 96,302 samples analysed fell below the maximum residue level (MRL), 3.9% exceeded this level, of which 2.3% were non‐compliant, i.e. samples exceeding the MRL after taking the measurement uncertainty into account. For the subset of 12,579 samples analysed as part of the EU‐coordinated control programme, 2.0% exceeded the MRL and 1.0% were non‐compliant. To assess acute and chronic risk to consumer health, dietary exposure to pesticide residues was estimated and compared with health‐based guidance values. The findings suggest that the residue levels for the food commodities analysed are unlikely to pose any concern for consumer health. However, a number of recommendations are proposed to increase the effectiveness of European control systems, thereby continuing to ensure a high level of consumer protection throughout the EU.

El artículo analiza el tema de la salud penitenciaria desde una perspectiva del “rule of law”. Indaga si la realidad del sistema de salud penitenciario permite afirmar que las normas no son relevantes para la atención que el Estado brinda a las personas privadas de libertad y si ha surgido un sistema de salud penitenciario caracterizado por una distribución de cargas y beneficios al margen del sistema formalmente válido. El estudio es relevante en cuanto muestra cómo el Ministerio de Salud ha dejado de cumplir con su función de diseñar una política pública en materia penitenciaria. A su vez, revela la falta de una fiscalización real de la salud penitenciaria. La investigación realizada es de tipo mixto, jurídica normativa y empírica, cuantitativa y cualitativa, llevada a cabo a partir de fuentes primarias y secundarias. Los resultados indican que el Estado, amparado en la ideología de la subsidiariedad, es indiferente ante los estándares normativos internacionales que regulan el derecho a la salud de las personas privadas de libertad y permite que exista un sistema alterno, diferente al que acceden los ciudadanos en general, carente de orientaciones legales, y que resulta insuficiente para garantizar el derecho a la salud.

Abstract Under EU legislation (Article 32, Regulation (EC) No 396/2005), EFSA provides an annual report which analyses pesticide residue levels in foods on the European market. The analysis is based on data from the official national control activities carried out by EU Member States, Iceland and Norway and includes a subset of data from the EU‐coordinated control programme which uses a randomised sampling strategy. For 2018, 95.5% of the overall 91,015 samples analysed fell below the maximum residue level (MRL), 4.5% exceeded this level, of which 2.7% were non‐compliant, i.e. samples exceeding the MRL after taking into account the measurement uncertainty. For the subset of 11,679 samples analysed as part of the EU‐coordinated control programme, 1.4% exceeded the MRL and 0.9% were non‐compliant. Table grapes and sweet peppers/bell peppers were among the food products that most frequently exceeded the MRLs. To assess acute and chronic risk to consumer health, dietary exposure to pesticide residues was estimated and compared with health‐based guidance values. The findings suggest that the assessed levels for the food commodities analysed are unlikely to pose concern for consumer health. However, a number of recommendations are proposed to increase the efficiency of European control systems (e.g. optimising traceability), thereby continuing to ensure a high level of consumer protection.

Through a feminist and intersectional reading of the “post-conflict”/post-agreement context, this study analyses: i) the violence against women as an instrumental and displayed power in war contexts; ii) the impact of violences against afrodescendant women during the armed conflict, drawn from Official Victims’ Registries as well as from their own narratives; iii) the multiple overlapped violences that afrodescendant women suffer, as part of a continuum, understanding war as the setting where the violences are embodied and become more lethal publicly; iv) the transitional justice as contested arena, specially with the signing of the Peace Agreements. For that purpose, the work focuses in the narratives of afrodescendant women as political and active subjects in the transitional justice process, in order to provide truth, reparation and guarantees of non-repetition to victims. In this regard, it reads through the victim qua victim, assuming a constructivist approach to understand this category –as well as we try to overcome essentialist and patronizing perspectives. Finally, this research proposes the resignification of agency ability of these women to redefine and dispute over the State’s control of justice, truth, reparation, and memory processes

Abstract Background Spermatogenesis is a complex process characterized by the activation and/or repression of a number of genes in a spatio-temporal manner. Pubertal development in males starts with the onset of the first spermatogenesis and implies the division of primary spermatogonia and their subsequent entry into meiosis. This study is aimed at the characterization of genes involved in the onset of puberty in European sea bass, and constitutes the first transcriptomic approach focused on meiosis in this species. Results European sea bass testes collected at the onset of puberty (first successful reproduction) were grouped in stage I (resting stage), and stage II (proliferative stage). Transition from stage I to stage II was marked by an increase of 11ketotestosterone (11KT), the main fish androgen, whereas the transcriptomic study resulted in 315 genes differentially expressed between the two stages. The onset of puberty induced 1) an up-regulation of genes involved in cell proliferation, cell cycle and meiosis progression, 2) changes in genes related with reproduction and growth, and 3) a down-regulation of genes included in the retinoic acid (RA) signalling pathway. The analysis of GO-terms and biological pathways showed that cell cycle, cell division, cellular metabolic processes, and reproduction were affected, consistent with the early events that occur during the onset of puberty. Furthermore, changes in the expression of three RA nuclear receptors point at the importance of the RA-signalling pathway during this period, in agreement with its role in meiosis. Conclusion The results contribute to boost our knowledge of the early molecular and endocrine events that trigger pubertal development and the onset of spermatogenesis in fish. These include an increase in 11KT plasma levels and changes in the expression of several genes involved in cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, meiosis or RA-signalling pathway. Moreover, the results can be applied to study meiosis in this economically important fish species for Mediterranean countries, and may help to develop tools for its sustainable aquaculture.

The conclusions of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State Italy for the pesticide active substance lavandulylsenecioateare reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council.The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses evaluated as a pheromone comprising manual applications to control Planococcusficus (vine mealybug) populations by mating disruption in table grape, wine grape, raisins and any other crops where P. ficus may be a pest in Southern Europe. The reliable endpoints,appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessmentare presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed.Concerns are identified.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Syngenta France SAS submitted a request to the competent national authority in France to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance acibenzolar‐S‐methyl in hazelnuts. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive an MRL proposal for hazelnuts/cobnuts. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control residues of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl in the plant matrix under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of acibenzolar‐S‐methyl according to the reported agricultural practice is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract The applicant BASF SE submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for bentazone in the framework of the maximum residue level (MRL) review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. To address the data gaps, a new livestock feeding study and storage stability data for bentazone and 6‐hydroxy bentazone in animal matrices were submitted. To address the data gap for potatoes, adjusted less critical good agricultural practices (GAPs) were reported and supporting residue data were provided. The data gap related to analytical methods in fat and herbal infusions were addressed in the framework of the peer review. The data gap for residue trials on leek has not been addressed. Further confirmation from the applicant/Member States are needed for the clarification of the GAP for herbal infusions. Based on the information submitted in support of the confirmatory data request, the existing EU MRLs for bentazone need to be modified for potato and leek, for swine fat and kidney and for bovine, equine, goat and sheep fat, liver and milk. The consumer risk assessment performed in the MRL review was updated, using new toxicological reference values derived by the peer review. No consumer intake concerns were identified.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Belgium Federal Public Service for Health, Food chain safety and Environment (Belgium FPS Health) submitted a request to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance fludioxonil in Florence fennels. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive an MRL proposal of 1.5 mg/kg for Florence fennels. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of fludioxonil on the commodity under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of fludioxonil according to the reported agricultural practice is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract According to Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 on maximum residue levels of pesticides in or on food and feed, Member States have to monitor pesticide residue levels in food samples and submit the monitoring results to EFSA and the European Commission. The Standard Sample Description (SSD, version 1) is the data model used for reporting the data on analytical measurements of chemical substances occurring in food, feed and water to EFSA. This document is a consolidated version of the past four years’ guidance defining the appropriate SSD codes to describe the samples and the analytical results and it gives directions for the reporting of the pesticide residues monitoring data starting with the data generated in 2018 onwards. These provisions take into account the experience of both the previous reporting seasons and the new legislation applicable in 2018. This EFSA Guidance will not be applicable for the 2019 data collection provided to EFSA in 2020. In 2020, all data on annual monitoring will be transmitted in SSD2 format only.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Bayer Hellas AG submitted a request to the competent national authority in Greece to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance fluopyram in broccoli. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for broccoli. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of fluopyram on the commodity under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of fluopyram according to the reported agricultural practice for broccoli will not result in consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference values and therefore are unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract The conclusions of EFSA following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State the United Kingdom and co‐rapporteur Member State Germany for the pesticide active substance thiacloprid are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses of thiacloprid as an insecticide on oilseed rape foliar use and maize seed treatment. The peer review also provided conclusions on whether exposure of humans to thiacoprid can be considered negligible, taking into account the European Commission's draft guidance on this topic. Confirmatory data following the review of existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) according to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 were also assessed in this conclusion. The reliable end points, appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment are presented. An evaluation of data concerning the necessity of thiacloprid as an insecticide to control a serious danger to plant health which cannot be contained by other available means, including non‐chemical methods is presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed. Concerns are identified.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the FPS Health, Food chain safety and Environment of Belgium, submitted an application to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance cyprodinil in Florence fennel to accommodate the intended use in the northern Europe. The submitted data were found sufficient to derive an MRL proposal of 4 mg/kg for cyprodinil in Florence fennel. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of cyprodinil in the plant matrix under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the long‐term intake of residues resulting from the authorised uses of cyprodinil and the intended use on Florence fennel is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health. An indicative acute exposure assessment was performed, considering the acute reference dose (ARfD) proposed by the rapporteur Member State (RMS) in the framework of the currently ongoing renewal of the approval of cyprodinil; no acute health concerns were identified with regard to cyprodinil residues in Florence fennel. As the peer review on the renewal of the approval of cyprodinil in accordance with Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 is currently ongoing, the conclusions reported in this reasoned opinion may need to be reconsidered in the light of the outcome of the peer review.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Nissan Chemical Europe S.A.S. submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance pyridaben in tomatoes and aubergines. An MRL proposal of 0.15 mg/kg was derived for tomatoes and aubergines which reflects the intended use of the plant protection product containing pyridaben. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of pyridaben in plant matrices at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concludes that the proposed use of pyridaben on tomatoes and aubergines will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the toxicological reference values and therefore it is unlikely to pose a risk to consumers’ health.

Retinoic Acid (RA) is a vitamin A derivative present in many biological processes including embryogenesis, organ development and cell differentiation. The RA signaling pathway is essential for the onset of meiosis in tetrapods, although its role in fish reproduction needs further evidence. This study reports the expression profiles of several genes involved in this pathway during sex differentiation and the first reproductive season in European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) gonads. The assessed genes are representative of several steps of the pathway including retinol transport, RA synthesis, nuclear receptors, RA transport and degradation. The study includes a synteny analysis of stra8, a tetrapod meiosis gatekeeper, in several taxa. The results show that, these genes were overexpressed during early gonad development and their expression decreased during meiosis progression in males and during vitellogenesis in females. Specifically, a decrease of cyp26a1, involved in RA degradation, together with an increase of aldh1a2 and aldh1a3, in charge of RA-synthesis, might ensure the availability of high RA levels at the time of meiosis in males and females. Moreover, the absence of stra8 in the European sea bass genome, as well as the conserved genomic neighbourhood found in other taxa, suggest a stra8 independent signaling for RA during meiosis. Taken together, our results might help to better understand the role of RA signaling in teleost gonad development.

Abstract The applicant Nihon Nohyaku Co. Ltd. submitted a request to the competent national authority in Finland to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for flutolanil in the framework of the maximum residue level (MRL) review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. The data gaps related to new residue trials for globe artichokes and beans with pods and for storage stability data in products of animal origin were addressed. Further risk management consideration is required regarding the tentative MRL on peppers and on certain products of animal origin, since the data gaps identified in the MRL review were not addressed or only partially addressed. A new metabolism study on ruminants was provided which will be assessed in the framework of the renewal of the active substance flutolanil; formally, this data gap is considered to be addressed. EFSA updated the most recent consumer risk assessment for flutolanil and concluded that the long‐term dietary intake is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health. The conclusion reported in this reasoned opinion may need to be reconsidered in light of the outcome of the EU pesticides peer review.

Abstract The applicant BASF SE submitted a request to the competent national authority in France to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for imazamox in the framework of the maximum residue level (MRL) review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. To address the data gaps, the applicant submitted new residue trials on rice. Since the number of trials was not sufficient, the data gap was considered only partially addressed. The remaining data gaps related to metabolism studies and analytical enforcement methods have been addressed in the framework of the renewal of the approval for imazamox. New enforcement and risk assessment residue definitions for plant commodities were derived and the toxicological reference values for imazamox were revised. The previous consumer risk assessment was updated using the residue data submitted on rice and the new revised toxicological reference values. No consumer intake concerns were identified. The current reasoned opinion is intended to give risk managers the necessary information to take a decision on the amendment of the tentative MRLs established in the EU MRL legislation. Furthermore, EFSA recommends to review all existing EU MRLs for imazamox, considering the new residue definitions derived in the framework of the peer review.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicants Syngenta Crop Protection B.V. and Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board (AHDB) submitted, respectively, a request to the competent national authorities in the Netherlands and United Kingdom to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance mandipropamid in various crops. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for beetroots, radishes, cauliflowers, Brussels sprouts, witloofs/Belgian endives, peas (without pods) and globe artichokes. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of mandipropamid in plant matrices under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the intake of residues resulting from the use of mandipropamid according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract The applicant Dow AgroSciences Ltd submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for spinosad in the framework of the maximum residue level (MRL) review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. The data gaps related to residue trials on globe artichokes, flowering brassica and the nature of residues in processed commodities were satisfactorily addressed. A new feeding study on poultry has been submitted as requested, but the information is not sufficient to derive conversion factors (CF) for risk assessment for poultry liver and eggs to replace the tentative conversion factors obtained from the metabolism study. The new information provided justifies the lowering of the MRLs for flowering brassica and products of poultry origin. The consumer risk assessment performed for spinosad was updated taking into account the acute reference dose (ARfD) which was recently derived by EFSA. Since for spinach a potential consumer intake concern was identified, the lowering of the existing MRL is recommended. For the remaining commodities assessed under this application (globe artichokes, flowering brassica, products derived from poultry), a consumer intake concern was not identified. For a number of commodities for which MRLs have been established previously but which are not subject of the current assessment, EFSA recommends a review of the MRLs because of potential short‐term intake concerns.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance triazoxide. To assess the occurrence of triazoxide residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EC) No 33/2008, as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States. Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. All information required by the regulatory framework was present and a risk to consumers was not identified.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Isagro S.p.A submitted a request to the competent national authority in Italy to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance tetraconazole in various crops and animal commodities. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for tetraconazole in kaki/Japanese persimmon, linseeds and poppy seeds. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control MRL compliance for parent compound tetraconazole on the commodities under consideration and in animal products. The proposed use of tetraconazole on crops under assessment will not result in a dietary exposure to residues of parent tetraconazole exceeding the toxicological reference values for tetraconazole. For triazole derivative metabolites (TDMs), only an indicative exposure assessment was performed considering only the crops under assessment; the results showed that the expected exposure to TDMs in the three assessed commodities is well below the toxicological reference values derived for the TDMs. The proposed use of tetraconazole on crops under assessment is therefore unlikely to pose a risk to consumers’ health. TDMs may be generated by several pesticides belonging to the group of triazole fungicides, a comprehensive risk assessment has thus to be performed that covers all existing EU uses and import tolerances for all pesticides belonging to the class of triazole fungicides. EFSA recommended to elaborate together with risk managers a strategy to ensure that the required data are made available to finalise the overall risk assessment for triazole fungicides.

Abstract The conclusions of EFSA following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State Greece and co‐rapporteur Member State Cyprus for the pesticide active substance fenamiphos are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses of fenamiphos as a nematicide in fruiting vegetables (i.e. tomato, aubergine, cucumber, pepper and courgette), herbaceous ornamentals and in nursery stock (both perennial and herbaceous species). The reliable end points, appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment are presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed. Concerns are identified.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Dow AgroSciences Denmark submitted a request to the competent national authority in the United Kingdom to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance aminopyralid in cereals. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for barley, rye, sorghum, millet and oats. A modification of the existing MRL of aminopyralid in wheat has been considered unnecessary. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of aminopyralid and its conjugates in plant matrices and on the commodities under assessment at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of aminopyralid according to the intended agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the competent national authority in Belgium prepared a request to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for the active substance spirotetramat in Florence fennels and rhubarbs. Furthermore, in accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Bayer SAS submitted a request to the competent national authority in Austria to modify the existing MRLs for spirotetramat in the group of other small fruits and berries, kiwi fruits and garlic. The data submitted in support to both requests were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for all the crops under consideration. Adequate analytical methods are available to enforce the proposed MRLs. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of spirotetramat according to the intended agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance chromafenozide. Considering the information provided by Member States, neither EU uses nor import tolerances are currently authorised for chromafenozide within the EU. Furthermore, no MRLs are established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission (codex maximum residue limits) for this active substance. Therefore, residues of chromafenozide are not expected to occur in any plant or animal commodity and therefore a consumer risk assessment is not required. Nevertheless, the available information allowed EFSA to propose a marker residue definition and a limit of quantification (LOQ) for enforcement against potential illegal uses.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance sedaxane. To assess the occurrence of sedaxane residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EU) No 188/2011, the MRLs established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out.

Abstract The conclusions of EFSA following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authorities of the rapporteur Member State Sweden and co‐rapporteur Member State the Netherlands for the pesticide active substance Verticillium albo‐atrum strain WCS850 are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Commission Implementing Regulation (EU) No 844/2012. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative use of Verticillium albo‐atrum strain WCS850 as a fungicide on elm trees. The reliable end points, appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment, are presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Syngenta Crop Protection AG submitted a request to the competent national authority in Greece to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRLs) for lambda‐cyhalothrin in celeries, fennel and rice. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive tentative MRL proposals for the concerned crops. They are tentative as formally the general data gap identified in the MRL review for further investigations of the toxicological properties of the compounds formed under sterilisation conditions has not yet been addressed. Adequate analytical enforcement methods are available to control the residues of lambda‐cyhalothrin in the commodities under consideration. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the uses of lambda‐cyhalothrin according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health. The consumer risk assessment presented might need to be reconsidered in the light of the confirmatory data requested following the renewal of the approval and the review of the existing MRLs.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Bayer Hellas AG submitted a request to the competent national authority in Greece to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance trifloxystrobin in broccoli. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive an MRL proposal for broccoli. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of trifloxystrobin on the commodity under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. EFSA performed a tentative risk assessment in which the calculated exposure to residues of trifloxystrobin and one of its metabolites CGA 321113 did not exceed the toxicological reference values derived for trifloxystrobin. The risk assessment is tentative since the toxicological properties of certain metabolites identified in some metabolism studies are not fully elucidated and data on the occurrence of metabolites CGA 357262, CGA 357261, CGA 331409 in crops for which MRLs were established in the past are not available.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance metam. To assess the occurrence of metam residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EC) No 33/2008C as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. Although no apparent risk to consumers was identified, some information required by the regulatory framework was missing. Hence, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only and some MRL proposals derived by EFSA still require further consideration by risk managers.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance dazomet. To assess the occurrence of dazomet residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Directive 91/414/EEC as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. Although no apparent risk to consumers was identified, some information required by the regulatory framework was missing. Hence, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only and some MRL proposals derived by EFSA still require further consideration by risk managers.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant Bayer CropScience submitted a request to the competent national authority in Greece to set an import tolerance for the active substance spiromesifen in coffee beans. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive a maximum residue level (MRL) proposal for coffee beans. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of spiromesifen and spiromesifen‐enol (M01) on the commodity under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg for each compound. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of spiromesifen according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance hexythiazox. To assess the occurrence of hexythiazox residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EC) No 33/2008, the MRLs established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission as well as the import tolerances and European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. Although no apparent risk to consumers was identified, some information required by the regulatory framework was missing. Hence, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only and some MRL proposals derived by EFSA still require further consideration by risk managers.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance fluometuron. To assess the occurrence of fluometuron residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EC) No 33/2008 as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, an MRL proposal was derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. All information required by the regulatory framework was present and a risk to consumers was not identified. In addition, EFSA identified some data gaps which are not expected to impact on the validity of the MRL derived but which might have an impact on national authorisations.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance imidacloprid. To assess the occurrence of imidacloprid residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Directive 91/414/EEC, the MRLs established by the Codex Alimentarius Commission as well as the import tolerances and/or European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. Some information required by the regulatory framework was missing and a possible chronic/acute risk to consumers was identified. Hence, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only, some MRL proposals derived by EFSA still require further consideration by risk managers and measures for reduction of the consumer exposure should also be considered.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicants Landesanstalt für Landwirtschaft und Gartenbau Sachsen‐Anhalt (LSA) and Dienstleistungszentrum Ländlicher Raum Rheinpfalz (DLR), respectively, submitted a request to the competent national authority in Germany to modify the existing maximum residue levels (MRL) for the active substance aclonifen in chives, parsley, celery leaves/dill leaves, thyme/savoury and in celeriacs/turnip‐rooted celery. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposals for all crops under consideration. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of aclonifen in high water commodities under consideration at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg. Based on the risk assessment results, EFSA concluded that the exposure to residues resulting from the use of aclonifen according to the reported agricultural practices is unlikely to present a risk to consumer health.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the Belgian Federal Public Service (FPS) for Health, Food chain safety and Environment, submitted an application as the competent national authority in Belgium to modify the existing maximum residue level (MRL) for the active substance captan in cranberries. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be sufficient to derive MRL proposal for cranberries. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of captan in plant matrices at the validated limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.01 mg/kg for each analyte in the crops assessed. Based on the exposure calculation, EFSA concluded that the short‐term and long‐term intake of residues resulting from the use of captan according to the reported agricultural practice will not result in a consumer exposure exceeding the existing toxicological reference values.

Abstract In accordance with Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, the applicant ADAMA Agriculture BV on behalf of ADAMA Makhteshim Ltd. submitted a request to the competent national authority in the Netherlands to modify the existing maximum residue level for the active substance captan in hops. The data submitted in support of the request were found to be insufficient to conclude whether the existing residue definitions are appropriate for hops. Although the number of residue trials is sufficient to derive a tentative maximum residue level (MRL) for hops according to the residue definitions derived for fruits and fruiting vegetables, EFSA did not recommend this MRL for being implemented in the MRL legislation because due to the lack of a reliable residue definition for risk assessment. Adequate analytical methods for enforcement are available to control the residues of captan in hops.

Abstract The conclusions of EFSA following the peer review of the initial risk assessment carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State France for the pesticide active substance bromoxynil are reported. The European Commission requested EFSA to conduct a peer review and provide its conclusions on whether exposure of humans to bromoxynil can be considered negligible, taking into account the European Commission's draft guidance on this topic. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative uses of bromoxynil as a herbicide on maize and straw cereals. The reliable endpoints, derived from the studies and the literature data presented in the dossier and considered appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment, are presented.

Abstract According to Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005, EFSA has reviewed the maximum residue levels (MRLs) currently established at European level for the pesticide active substance pencycuron. To assess the occurrence of pencycuron residues in plants, processed commodities, rotational crops and livestock, EFSA considered the conclusions derived in the framework of Commission Regulation (EC) No 33/2008 as well as the European authorisations reported by Member States (including the supporting residues data). Based on the assessment of the available data, MRL proposals were derived and a consumer risk assessment was carried out. Some information required by the regulatory framework was missing and a possible risk to consumers was identified. Hence, the consumer risk assessment is considered indicative only and no MRL proposals were derived by EFSA. Further consideration by risk managers are needed and measures for reduction of the consumer exposure should also be considered.

Abstract The conclusions of EFSA following the peer review of the initial risk assessments carried out by the competent authority of the rapporteur Member State Italy for the pesticide active substance propanil and the assessment of applications for maximum residue levels (MRLs) are reported. The context of the peer review was that required by Regulation (EC) No 1107/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The conclusions were reached on the basis of the evaluation of the representative use of propanil as a herbicide on rice. MRLs were assessed in rice. The reliable endpoints, appropriate for use in regulatory risk assessment and the proposed MRLs, are presented. Missing information identified as being required by the regulatory framework is listed. Concerns are identified.

Abstract The applicant BASF SE submitted a request to the competent national authority in Germany to evaluate the confirmatory data that were identified for pyraclostrobin in the framework of the MRL review under Article 12 of Regulation (EC) No 396/2005 as not available. To address the data gaps, residues trials supporting the existing use of pyraclostrobin on table grapes authorised in southern EU Member States and an analytical method for analysing residues of pyraclostrobin in coffee beans were submitted. The data gap for coffee beans was considered satisfactorily addressed. The new residue trials in table grapes give an indication that the existing MRL for table grapes should be raised. However, since a potential acute consumer health risk for table grapes could not be excluded, EFSA recommend the lowering of the existing MRL.