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Background: Maximal lower-body strength can be assessed both dynamically and isometrically; however, the relationship between the changes in these 2 forms of strength following resistance training is not well understood. Purpose: To systematically review and analyze the effects of resistance training on changes in maximal dynamic (1-repetition-maximum back squat, deadlift, and power clean) and position-matched isometric strength (isometric midthigh pull and the isometric squat). In addition, individual-level data were used to quantify the agreement and relationship between changes in dynamic and isometric strength. Methods: Databases were systematically searched to identify eligible articles, and meta-analysis procedures were performed on the extracted data. The raw results from 4 studies were acquired, enabling bias and absolute reliability measures to be calculated using Bland–Altman test of agreement. Results: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, which resulted in 29 isometric–dynamic change comparisons. The overall pooled effect was 0.13 in favor of dynamic testing; however, the prediction interval ranged from g = −0.49 to 0.75. There was no evidence of bias (P =.825) between isometric and dynamic tests; however, the reliability coefficient was estimated to be 16%, and the coefficient of variation (%) was 109.27. Conclusions: As a range of future effects can be expected when comparing isometric to dynamic strength changes following resistance training, and limited proportionality exists between changes in these 2 strength qualities, there is strong evidence that isometric and dynamic strength represent separate neuromuscular domains. These findings can be used to inform strength-assessment models in athlete populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-5, with its revised criteria for diagnosis, highlights the dynamics between the presence of other conditions and the severity of symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), along with atypical cognitive profiles. This theoretical review intends to explore various facets of adopting Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety in ASD, exploring the existing literature. Recent trends are inching toward exploring efficacious interventions, including CBT for anxiety in ASD. Clinical trials point towards favourable outcomes of CBT for anxiety in ASD Level 1. Engaging adaptations and customizations to CBT well within the conceptual confines to compensate for the gaps and framing ASD-specific outcome measures are crucial to addressing the symptom diversity in ASD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food caching and haying can help species to survive extreme environmental conditions and cope with seasonal fluctuations in resource availability. We documented the food caching/haying behavior of the Ladakh Pika (Ochotona ladacensis) and the Nubra Pika (O. nubrica) from the cold desert of the Changthang biotic province, Ladakh, India, and contrasted their haying strategies under differing conditions of sociality and niche occupation. We found that the more social and larger species, O. ladacensis —which lives in open microhabitats—built larger and more conspicuous haypiles compared to O. nubrica —which built smaller, concealed haypiles in less open microhabitats. Ochotona ladacensis collected a different set of plants with greater overall richness than O. nubrica. Both species collected distasteful, toxic plants that are known to discourage herbivory. Ochotona nubrica placed haypiles closer to burrows in comparison to O. ladacensis. Haypiles in O. ladacensis colonies were clumped rather than uniformly distributed, not meeting predictions of the theory of cache defensibility associated with theft by conspecifics. The present study provides insights into haypile characteristics and associated behavioral responses of high-elevation pikas to variation in the availability of resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this interview, Sean Michael Wilson delves into his multifaceted career as a graphic novel writer, revealing the intricacies of his creative process, the challenges of adapting complex subjects into visual narratives, and the evolving role of graphic novels in cultural discourse. With over 40 projects under his belt, Wilson shares his approach to beginning new works, whether they stem from original ideas or are adaptations of historical events and existing literature. He discusses the balance between authenticity and readability, the importance of research, and the collaborative dynamic between writer and artist in bringing graphic novels to life. Wilson also touches on the broader implications of graphic novels in education and social commentary, the economic realities of the industry, and the impact of digital platforms on publishing. His experiences across different cultures, particularly between the West and Japan, provide insight into the global reception of his work. Throughout the interview, Wilson emphasises the power of graphic novels as a medium for storytelling, education, and political engagement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article scrutinizes the use of the silent gaze and its surrounding context in Costa Rican director Hilda Hidalgo's film adaptation (2009) of Gabriel García Márquez's Del amor y otros demonios ['Of Love and Other Demons'] (1994). Despite similarities in plot from novel to film, Hidalgo's frequent employment of the silent gaze among the female characters draws from the source text's lack of dialogue and occasional loose details to create a space for the voices and concerns of Latin American and Caribbean women not present in the novel. In this way, the technique reveals a richly feminist commentary that underscores women's unconscious desire for feminine influences, bonding experiences, unity and personal agency through the act of observing one another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cervical cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally. The condition is both preventable and treatable yet remains a leading cause of cancer death in Ghana. This study aims to explore the unique experiences of women living with cervical cancer with a focus on the challenges and coping strategies. Methods: The study employed a qualitative approach with an exploratory, descriptive design. This study was conducted among women with cervical cancer aged 18 years and above who have been diagnosed with the disease for at least 3 months. A total of 16 participants were purposively sampled based on the eligibility criteria and individually interviewed using a semi-structured guide. The six-step technique for qualitative analysis by Braun and Clarke guided data analysis. Results: Most participants resorted to self-medication, over-the-counter drugs and herbal preparations as a first line of defense against the disease. The presence of cervical cancer affected participants' physical and mental well-being. Other challenges included financial burden and frequent equipment breakdowns which affected patients' treatment. Participants adopted different coping strategies such as taking blood tonic, increased rest and sleep, spiritual prayers and recreational activities. Family members, friends, the church and health workers provided support in the area of finance, advice, meal preparation and house chores, prayers and counseling to participants. Conclusions: Cervical cancer affects the quality of life of many women and their significant others. The condition puts a lot of financial burden on its victims and there is the need for a system to reduce the burden on patients. It is recommended that the treatment of cervical cancer should be covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme to ease the financial burden on patients. There is a need for expansion of access to cervical cancer treatment across the country to reduce patients' burden and relieve the pressure on the few pieces of equipment at the current treatment centres. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Aims Design Methods Results Conclusion Implications for the Profession Impact Reporting Method Patient/Public Contribution To co‐identify adaptations with key stakeholders needed to optimise elements of a video‐based intervention (i.e., PREEMIE PROGRESS [PP]), which trains parents in evidence‐based family management skills to care for their very preterm infant in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).Descriptive qualitative study oriented with a pragmatic philosophy, informed by the reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, maintenance (RE‐AIM) framework and the framework for reporting adaptations and modifications‐expanded (FRAME).Semistructured interviews to identify potential adaptations with key stakeholders: family management researchers (n = 5), clinicians (n = 9), technology experts (n = 5) and parents of preterm infants (n = 17). Weekly design team meetings to select and implement high‐priority adaptations necessary for the next research phase. Monthly NICU parent partnership meetings to review adaptations and make recommendations for potential adaptations with conflicting data.Stakeholders (N = 36) suggested 98 potential adaptations: 32 (33.0%) were completed, 8 (8.2%) were abandoned, 5 (5.2%) have work that is ongoing and 52 (53.6%) were tabled for future research phases. Content adaptations (70, 71.4%) were the most frequently suggested adaptation type. Potential adaptations mostly addressed RE‐AIM dimensions of effectiveness (43, 43.9%), and implementation (46, 46.9%) and were directed at the parent (i.e., intervention recipient) level (79, 81.4%).Use of the RE‐AIM framework ensured we systematically identified needed adaptations with key stakeholders across a range of dimensions that would improve PP for parents now and in future phases of this research.Co‐identifying potential adaptations with key stakeholders, paired with FRAME documentation, can help nurses prioritise adaptations most appropriate for each phase of implementation.Our paper highlights for nurse clinicians and researchers how FRAME documentation of potential adaptations can support stakeholder engagement and a systematic approach to incorporating adaptations throughout all phases of the research process, thereby shortening the evidence to practice gap.COREQ guidelines for qualitative reporting.The research team was supported by members of the NICU's Parent Partnership Council (PPC), whose mission is to promote family‐centred care improvement projects and research within the NICU. This committee is comprised of nursing, physician, allied health leadership and parents of infants previously hospitalised in the NICU. The NICU PPC met monthly to review conflicting data on potential adaptations and provide recommendations on adaptation decisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The COVID‐19 pandemic led to an unprecedented global moment when the core needs of children and young people (rights for education, food, play and leisure) were not adequately addressed, recognised from a policy perspective and to varying extents, ignored. This paper, by bringing scholarship and grey literature together, provides an integrative, international, comprehensive review and analysis of how the pandemic affected children's core needs (and rights) simultaneously. It also reviews and compares adaptations—often local, informal and/or community‐led—that attempted to respond to the shortcomings and negative impacts of more formal policy measures, including lockdowns themselves. By doing so, it engages with the question of resilience and calls for children and young people's needs and voices to be heard in the future, particularly considering future forms of crisis‐preparedness that can better account for children and young people's needs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two hundred ninety-eight primary teachers (88% female) from across all Australian states and territories reported on the frequency with which they implemented instructional adaptations for struggling writers in their classrooms. They also rated their preparation and self-efficacy for teaching writing. The majority of participating teachers indicated they provided additional instruction on spelling, capitalization and punctuation, and sentence construction at least once a week or more often. Teachers further reported implementing additional minilessons and reteaching strategies and skills, as well as extra instruction on grammar, handwriting, text structure, revising, and planning on a monthly basis or more often. The majority of teachers reported never or only once a year using adaptations to support digital writing. The frequency with which teachers provided extra instruction on spelling, handwriting, text structure, revising, and computer use differed by grade. Only teachers' perceived efficacy to teach writing made a unique and statistically significant contribution to predicting the use of instructional adaptations for writing and adaptations to support digital writing after controlling for teacher and classroom variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)-5, with its revised criteria for diagnosis, highlights the dynamics between the presence of other conditions and the severity of symptoms in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), along with atypical cognitive profiles. This theoretical review intends to explore various facets of adopting Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety in ASD, exploring the existing literature. Recent trends are inching toward exploring efficacious interventions, including CBT for anxiety in ASD. Clinical trials point towards favourable outcomes of CBT for anxiety in ASD Level 1. Engaging adaptations and customizations to CBT well within the conceptual confines to compensate for the gaps and framing ASD-specific outcome measures are crucial to addressing the symptom diversity in ASD.

Abstract Background Cervical cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women globally. The condition is both preventable and treatable yet remains a leading cause of cancer death in Ghana. This study aims to explore the unique experiences of women living with cervical cancer with a focus on the challenges and coping strategies. Methods The study employed a qualitative approach with an exploratory, descriptive design. This study was conducted among women with cervical cancer aged 18 years and above who have been diagnosed with the disease for at least 3 months. A total of 16 participants were purposively sampled based on the eligibility criteria and individually interviewed using a semi-structured guide. The six-step technique for qualitative analysis by Braun and Clarke guided data analysis. Results Most participants resorted to self-medication, over-the-counter drugs and herbal preparations as a first line of defense against the disease. The presence of cervical cancer affected participants’ physical and mental well-being. Other challenges included financial burden and frequent equipment breakdowns which affected patients’ treatment. Participants adopted different coping strategies such as taking blood tonic, increased rest and sleep, spiritual prayers and recreational activities. Family members, friends, the church and health workers provided support in the area of finance, advice, meal preparation and house chores, prayers and counseling to participants. Conclusions Cervical cancer affects the quality of life of many women and their significant others. The condition puts a lot of financial burden on its victims and there is the need for a system to reduce the burden on patients. It is recommended that the treatment of cervical cancer should be covered by the National Health Insurance Scheme to ease the financial burden on patients. There is a need for expansion of access to cervical cancer treatment across the country to reduce patients’ burden and relieve the pressure on the few pieces of equipment at the current treatment centres.

Background. By now, Helianthus L. spp. have spread out to many parts of the world as cultivated or adventive plants. Herbarium collections, published sources, and our own data were used to study the emergence, distribution, environmental patterns, and adaptation of 6 species and 1 subspecies of Helianthus L. in the Russian Far East and in East Asia.Materials and methods. Field studies in the Russian Far East were carried out using the route-based method from 2001 through 2022 over Amur Province, and Khabarovsk and Primorsky Territories. The data for the entire area of studies were retrieved from published sources and official web databases. Maps with Helianthus growing sites were made using the MapInfo software. Results and conclusions. Changes in environmental conditions contributed to the expansion of the range of H. annuus L. and H. tuberosus L. Actively cultivated in the Russian Far East and in East Asia, these two species are obviously quite localized to areas with a mild, warm and humid climate. Other Helianthus spp. are distributed to a much lesser extent, being in most cases poorly adapted to uncultivated growth in the Russian Far East or East Asia. Increased occurrence of H. annuus subsp. lenticularis (Douglas ex Lindl.) Cockerell in agrocenoses of Amur Province is probably associated with underpurified soybean material. Higher distribution of H. strumosus L. across ruderal communities in Japan, contrary to the other studied areas, is likely to have been induced by specific climate conditions. On the whole, the physical geography, the pace and degree of anthropogenic pressure, and the climate change impacts in East Asia and the Russian Far East favored successful naturalization, albeit uneven distribution, of H. annuus and H. tuberosus in various disturbed communities, in contrast to H. rigidus (Cass.) Desf., H. laetiflorus Pers., or H. petiolaris Nutt.

Abstract Background Non-pharmacological interventions have proven effective at alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms in older adults. Methodological refinement and testing of these interventions in new contexts are needed on a small scale before their effectiveness and implementation can be evaluated. The purpose of this pilot study is to assess the feasibility of a future large-scale trial comparing an adapted mental health multi-component evidence-based intervention (VIDACTIVA) versus standard care for older adults experiencing depression symptoms in urban, resource-limited settings in Lima, Peru. Furthermore, this study will explore the acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity of implementing the intervention. Methods We will conduct an open-label, mixed methods pilot feasibility study with two parallel groups. A total of 64 older adults, stratified by sex, will be randomized at a 1:1 ratio to either the “intervention” or “control.” Participants will be followed for 22 weeks after enrollment. Those in the intervention group will receive eight VIDACTIVA sessions administered by community health workers (CHWs) over 14 weeks, with an additional eight weeks of follow-up. Participants in the control group will receive two psychoeducation sessions from a study fieldworker and will be directed to health care centers. Standard care does not involve CHWs. We will evaluate screening rates, recruitment strategies, retention rates, the acceptability of randomization, and assessments. Additionally, we will assess preliminary implementation outcomes—acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity—from the perspectives of CHWs (interventionists), older adults (main participants), older adults’ relatives, and healthcare professionals. Discussion If the findings from this feasibility trial are favorable, a fully powered randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate `both the effectiveness and implementation of the intervention. This research will make a substantial contribution to the field of mental health in older adults, particularly by emphasizing a meticulous examination and documentation of the implementation process. By doing so, this study will offer valuable methodologies and metrics for adapting and assessing mental health interventions tailored to the unique needs of older adults in resource-constrained contexts and diverse cultural settings. Trial registration The current trial registration number is NCT06065020, which was registered on 26th September 2023.

Abstract Background Learning Health Systems (LHS) – characterised by cycles of evidence generation and application – are increasingly recognised for their potential to improve public health interventions and optimise health impacts; however there is little evidence of their application in the context of public health practice. Here, we describe how an Australian public health unit applied a LHS approach to successfully improve a model of support for implementation of a school-based physical activity policy. Methods This body of work was undertaken in the context of a strong research-practice partnership. Core LHS capabilities included: i) partnerships and stakeholder engagement; ii) workforce development and learning health communities; iii) multi-disciplinary scientific expertise; iv) practice data collection and management system; v) evidence surveillance and synthesis; and vi) governance and organisational processes of decision making. Three cycles of data generation and application were used. Within each cycle, randomised controlled trials conducted in NSW primary schools were used to generate data on the support model’s effectiveness for improving schools’ implementation of a government physical activity policy, its delivery costs, and process measures such as adoption and acceptability. Each type of data were analysed independently, synthesised, and then presented to a multi-disciplinary team of researchers and practitioners, in consult with stakeholders, leading to collaborative decisions for incremental improvements to the support model. Results Cycle 1 tested the first version of the support model (composed of five implementation strategies targeting identified barriers of policy implementation) and showed the model’s feasibility and efficacy for improving schools’ policy implementation. Data-informed changes were made to enhance impact, including the addition of three implementation strategies to address outstanding barriers. Cycle 2 (now, testing a package of eight implementation strategies) established the model’s effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for improving school's policy implementation. Data-informed changes were made to reduce delivery costs, specifically adapting the costliest strategies to reduce in-person contact from external support personnel. Cycle 3 showed that the adaptations minimised the relative cost of delivery without adversely impacting on the effect. Conclusions Through this process, we identified an effective, cost-effective, acceptable and scalable policy implementation support model for service delivery. This provides important information to inform or support LHS approaches for other agencies seeking to optimise the health impact of evidence-based interventions.

The current research aimed to investigate the adaptations in eye morphology and the structure of retinal photoreceptors in amphibious fish (Alticus kirkii) and nonamphibious fish (Gambusia affinis) to understand the visual adaptations of A. kirkii upon being out of water. The morphological and histological features of the eyes of both species were adressed. Results showed that A. kirkii exhibits several visual adaptations for seeing in air. Morphologically, the eyes of A. kirkii are bulging and positioned on retractable stalks at the top of the head, unlike those of G. affinis. The ratio of axial length to head length is greater in A. kirkii than in G. affinis. Histologically, the cornea of A. kirkii is more curved than that of G. affinis, with a crooked internal layer that is more curled in A. kirkii and reduced in G. affinis. The lens is larger, slightly flattened, and more stable in A. kirkii compared to G. affinis. The retina is thicker in A. kirkii and consists of 10 layers. In A. kirkii, the external layer of pigmented epithelium is densely packed in the peripheral region of the photoreceptor layer, whereas in G. affinis, it is composed of epithelial cells in the peripheral region but is less thick. The visual cell layer includes simple and double cones; A. kirkii has a greater abundance and larger size of cones compared to G. affinis. The outer nuclear layer, which contains the visual cell bodies, is thicker in A. kirkii than in G. affinis. The outer plexiform layer is narrower in A. kirkii, with higher densities of both bipolar and horizontal cells compared to G. affinis. The inner nuclear layer shows a heterogeneous cell composition and is more crowded in A. kirkii than in G. affinis. Additionally, disparities in the thickness of the inner limiting membrane and nerve fiber layer affect the transmission of signals from the retina to the brain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High Andean lizards in the Andes face numerous challenges in high‐altitude environments characterized by significant temperature, spatial and temporal variations. These factors greatly influence their thermal characteristics and adaptive strategies for coping with temperature fluctuations. This study aims were to investigate the thermal biology of high mountain lizards (>2000 m) inhabiting the Andes Mountain range, using information from existing literature, and to identify the potential impacts of the original climate change scenarios developed in this study. Within the Andes, high‐altitude species are primarily found in families like Liolaemidae, Gymnophthalmidae, Tropiduridae, Anolidae and Leiourisauridae. Notably, we found in the literature that the higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures in southern species compared to those closer to the tropics. Typically, diurnal and seasonal temperature variations have a significant impact on the body temperature of these high‐altitude lizards, but their adaptive behaviours and physiological mechanisms enhance their resistance to extreme temperatures. Populations situated below the equator often exhibit higher body temperatures and maximum critical temperatures, largely due to their exposure to higher ambient temperatures during summer. With all global warming scenarios indicating temperature increases in latitudinal regions, tropical high‐altitude lizards, historically less thermally adaptable, may be particularly susceptible to these temperature rises. It is crucial to consider that additional factors, such as species activity patterns, thermal resource availability and diminishing suitable thermal habitats, will also play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these lizard species, making the situation even more complex and challenging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since 1994, the South African government has committed itself to transforming its entire education system with global initiatives related to inclusive education. One of these changes has seen increased support for deaf students in inclusive education settings, as deaf students are increasingly being educated in mainstream classrooms along with their hearing peers. Establishing learning environments that address the unique needs of deaf students is essential for their success but to date little research has included their voices. The aim of this study was to investigate the experiences of four deaf students, educated in mainstream secondary schools in one South African province, to understand the unique features of their learning needs. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews focused on the generation of information regarding the students' beliefs, knowledge and feelings about their educational experiences. Participants' responses are presented in terms of how mainstream teachers might adapt their teaching strategies, teaching materials and assessment tasks, not to dilute educational standards but to give deaf students equal opportunities to demonstrate their knowledge. Our work offers insights into how teachers and schools could implement classroom-level changes, that could perhaps contribute to systems-wide transformation in South African mainstream schools. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Interventions for obesity-related cancers that combine nutrition and physical activity for weight loss exist; however, their application to survivors of endometrial cancer is unknown. Furthermore, little is known about pre-implementation perceptions of existing programs from a variety of interested persons (physicians, researchers) who may be part of the implementation team. Adapting an existing intervention rather than developing a new intervention may speed the translational lag time as long as intervention characteristics and fit within the delivery system are considered during the planning phase. To describe the process of determining the core elements of obesity-related interventions for cancer survivors and determine which one might be best delivered by an urban healthcare system that predominantly serves individuals who live in rural areas of Virginia and West Virginia. A pragmatic review of the literature was conducted via PubMed and Google Scholar with broad search terms of cancer survivor AND weight loss AND health intervention. Identified interventions were scored related to the Practical, Robust Implementation and Sustainability Model—which is an extension of RE-AIM framework to guide the understanding of who, what, where, when, and how the intervention was conducted. Intervention characteristics are reported. In addition, ratings from three independent reviewers on the validated 5-point Likert scale of an intervention's acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility in the intended delivery system were collected and summarized. Twelve interventions were identified with an average sample size of 241(±195) and a range of 48–683 participants. Target populations included survivors of colorectal, breast, and endometrial cancers as well as general cancer survivors and included both men and women or only women. Most participants (74%) identified as white/Caucasian and average age ranged from 47.1 to 65.9 years. Program duration ranged from 4 weeks to 18 months, with an average duration of 32 weeks. Intervention dosage ranged from three times a week to once a month. Intervention acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility had average and standard deviation ratings of 3.52(±0.46), 3.41(±0.45), and 3.21(±0.46), respectively, out of 5. The four interventions with the highest combined acceptable, appropriate, and feasible scores are being considered for potential use as an obesity-related intervention for survivors of endometrial cancer. Future work is needed to determine relevant adaptations and efficacy among survivors of endometrial cancer with obesity. Our approach may be beneficial for other interventionists aiming to speed intervention development and implementation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Issue Addressed Methods Results Conclusions So What? The Get Outside, Get Active (GOGA) program is a randomised controlled trial which tested the impact of a multi‐component implementation strategy to support early childhood education and care (ECEC) services to replace indoor‐only free play with indoor–outdoor‐free play. This cross‐sectional study aims to describe the extent and nature of modifications made to implementation strategies and Behaviour Change Techniques (BCTs) using the Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence‐based Implementation Strategies (FRAME‐IS) and to describe the fidelity of BCT delivery throughout GOGA.An audit of records was undertaken throughout the intervention delivery period in the intervention arm. GOGA included 14 standard BCTs within six implementation strategies. Modifications and BCT delivery were recorded by Health Promotion Officers via project records. Modifications were categorised according to the FRAME‐IS. BCT delivery was recorded using a checklist.Forty‐four ECEC services received the GOGA program. Overall, 60 modifications were recorded. According to FRAME‐IS categories, most modifications related to: content; format; pragmatic or practical considerations; tailoring/tweaking/refining in nature; fidelity was inconsistent; the goal was to increase the acceptability, appropriateness, or feasibility of the implementation effort; the rationale was at the practitioner level; and were unplanned/reactive. Overall, 96.4% of standard BCTs were delivered as intended.GOGA was delivered with high fidelity to protocol as indicated by the level of BCT delivery. This article details a thorough approach to documenting modifications and provides guidance for future studies.This article contributes to the emerging evidence regarding documentation of adaptations and modifications to public health implementation interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Non-pharmacological interventions have proven effective at alleviating depression and anxiety symptoms in older adults. Methodological refinement and testing of these interventions in new contexts are needed on a small scale before their effectiveness and implementation can be evaluated. The purpose of this pilot study is to assess the feasibility of a future large-scale trial comparing an adapted mental health multi-component evidence-based intervention (VIDACTIVA) versus standard care for older adults experiencing depression symptoms in urban, resource-limited settings in Lima, Peru. Furthermore, this study will explore the acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity of implementing the intervention. Methods: We will conduct an open-label, mixed methods pilot feasibility study with two parallel groups. A total of 64 older adults, stratified by sex, will be randomized at a 1:1 ratio to either the "intervention" or "control." Participants will be followed for 22 weeks after enrollment. Those in the intervention group will receive eight VIDACTIVA sessions administered by community health workers (CHWs) over 14 weeks, with an additional eight weeks of follow-up. Participants in the control group will receive two psychoeducation sessions from a study fieldworker and will be directed to health care centers. Standard care does not involve CHWs. We will evaluate screening rates, recruitment strategies, retention rates, the acceptability of randomization, and assessments. Additionally, we will assess preliminary implementation outcomes—acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity—from the perspectives of CHWs (interventionists), older adults (main participants), older adults' relatives, and healthcare professionals. Discussion: If the findings from this feasibility trial are favorable, a fully powered randomized controlled trial will be conducted to evaluate 'both the effectiveness and implementation of the intervention. This research will make a substantial contribution to the field of mental health in older adults, particularly by emphasizing a meticulous examination and documentation of the implementation process. By doing so, this study will offer valuable methodologies and metrics for adapting and assessing mental health interventions tailored to the unique needs of older adults in resource-constrained contexts and diverse cultural settings. Trial registration: The current trial registration number is NCT06065020, which was registered on 26th September 2023. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hypoxia occurs when oxygen levels fall below the levels required for mitochondria to support respiration. Regulated hypoxia is associated with quiescence, particularly in storage organs (seeds) and stem cell niches. In contrast, environmentally induced hypoxia poses significant challenges for metabolically active cells that are adapted to aerobic respiration. The perception of oxygen availability through cysteine oxidases, which function as oxygen-sensing enzymes in plants that control the N-degron pathway, and the regulation of hypoxia-responsive genes and processes is essential to survival. Functioning together with reactive oxygen species (ROS), particularly hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS), such as nitric oxide (·NO), nitrogen dioxide (·NO2), S- nitrosothiols (SNOs), and peroxynitrite (ONOO–), hypoxia signaling pathways trigger anatomical adaptations such as formation of aerenchyma, mobilization of sugar reserves for anaerobic germination, formation of aerial adventitious roots, and the hyponastic response. NO and H2O2 participate in local and systemic signaling pathways that facilitate acclimation to changing energetic requirements, controlling glycolytic fermentation, the γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) shunt, and amino acid synthesis. NO enhances antioxidant capacity and contributes to the recycling of redox equivalents in energy metabolism through the phytoglobin (Pgb)–NO cycle. Here, we summarize current knowledge of the central role of NO and redox regulation in adaptive responses that prevent hypoxia-induced death in challenging conditions such as flooding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary school educators in South Africa often experience difficulties in applying recommended adaptive assessment methods in large multilingual classes, with these challenges being exacerbated when teaching and assessing English as First Additional Language (EFAL). In this article, we report on a study that explored Grade 6 educators' knowledge and use of adaptive assessment methods when teaching EFAL. The national Policy on Screening, Identification, Assessment and Support ([SIAS] Department of Basic Education [DBE], Republic of South Africa [RSA], 2014) underpins our study as a theoretical framework. We followed a qualitative research approach to examine the knowledge as well as the classroom practices of 6 purposively selected educators who taught EFAL. The study was grounded in the interpretivist paradigm and investigated educators' lived experiences integrating adaptive assessment procedures into the teaching of EFAL in Grade 6 inclusive classrooms. We relied on semi-structured interviews, observation, and document analysis to collect data and performed thematic analysis to identify, analyse and report repeated patterns. The findings from our study indicate that the participating educators perceived their training in inclusive education and their use of adaptive assessment methods as inadequate, especially in the context of large, under-resourced classrooms. As a result, we recommend that educators should receive the necessary support from the school-based support teams and the district-based support teams to use adaptive assessment methods when teaching EFAL. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic traits are argued to favor the establishment of invasive alien plants and to evolve during the invasion process, so that invasions may be favored by both plasticity and evolutionary changes in plasticity. Despite this aspect being pivotal to understanding invasion processes, no information is available about the effect of residence time on the evolution of phenotypic plasticity of aliens to produce locally adapted phenotypes. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate changes in the morpho-functional traits of the invasive alien Ambrosia trifida L. over time. Specifically, we grew A. trifida plants under laboratory (at different temperatures: 10 °C, 20 °C and 25 °C) and field conditions by using seeds collected from 2011 to 2020 from an Eastern European population. Data about seedling emergence, vegetative (laboratory and field) and reproductive (field) traits were collected, e.g., maximum plant height (cm), total dry biomass (g), number of flowers (n) and number of new seeds (n). Analysis of variance (ANOVA), linear regressions and a plasticity index were applied to assess differences in plant performances when grown from seeds of different ages. An auto-regressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) model was applied to predict future trends of some key plant traits (maximum height, total dry biomass and number of new seeds). Overall, the time of seedling emergence was not statistically different among seeds of different age, and regression analyses exhibited a positive relationship between residence time (seed age) and vegetative and reproductive parameters of A. trifida. Only male flower production exhibited a negative trend over time. At all temperatures (especially at 25 °C), the vegetative parameters increased with the decrease in residence time. The plasticity index of the measured traits tended to decrease over time for most traits both in the field and in the laboratory trials. The ARIMA model predicted that plant traits will continue to increase in size over time by 2030, suggesting further plastic adaptation of A. trifida. The results highlighted that residence time influences the evolution of phenotypic plasticity of A. trifida, which has strengthened its adaptability to the new conditions over a decade, also demonstrating a great adaptive and invasion potential for the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses research that analyzes the adaptation strategies of farmers to climate change effects on agriculture based on evidences from field survey and using binary regression technique. The study examines the determining factors of farmers' choice of adaptation tactics including farming experience, size of family or households, size of operational land holdings, education level and proximity to the nearest town.

The hair coat and hair microstructure of an adult male Hydropotes inermis from the Primorsky Krai of Russia were studied for the first time by light and scanning electron microscopy. Lack of abundant underfur, sparse hair, and a weak layering are characteristic of the species, which inhabits the temperate monsoon and tropical zones and does not need an efficient thermal protection. An alveolar and lattice medulla of the hair is similar to that of other deer, is well developed, and increases the heat-protective properties of the hair because seasonal and daily fluctuations in temperature and humidity can be significant. The cuticle pattern is similar to that of the deer tribes Alceini and Capreolini. The hair thickness and length are substantial on the back, sides, and thighs, and the coat thus provides reliable protection from mechanical damage when the water deer moves through thickets of bushes and grasses along riverbanks and swamps in its habitats. A knotty nature of hairs protects the skin from sharp outgrowths of aquatic and marsh plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Learning Health Systems (LHS) – characterised by cycles of evidence generation and application – are increasingly recognised for their potential to improve public health interventions and optimise health impacts; however there is little evidence of their application in the context of public health practice. Here, we describe how an Australian public health unit applied a LHS approach to successfully improve a model of support for implementation of a school-based physical activity policy. Methods: This body of work was undertaken in the context of a strong research-practice partnership. Core LHS capabilities included: i) partnerships and stakeholder engagement; ii) workforce development and learning health communities; iii) multi-disciplinary scientific expertise; iv) practice data collection and management system; v) evidence surveillance and synthesis; and vi) governance and organisational processes of decision making. Three cycles of data generation and application were used. Within each cycle, randomised controlled trials conducted in NSW primary schools were used to generate data on the support model's effectiveness for improving schools' implementation of a government physical activity policy, its delivery costs, and process measures such as adoption and acceptability. Each type of data were analysed independently, synthesised, and then presented to a multi-disciplinary team of researchers and practitioners, in consult with stakeholders, leading to collaborative decisions for incremental improvements to the support model. Results: Cycle 1 tested the first version of the support model (composed of five implementation strategies targeting identified barriers of policy implementation) and showed the model's feasibility and efficacy for improving schools' policy implementation. Data-informed changes were made to enhance impact, including the addition of three implementation strategies to address outstanding barriers. Cycle 2 (now, testing a package of eight implementation strategies) established the model's effectiveness and cost-effectiveness for improving school's policy implementation. Data-informed changes were made to reduce delivery costs, specifically adapting the costliest strategies to reduce in-person contact from external support personnel. Cycle 3 showed that the adaptations minimised the relative cost of delivery without adversely impacting on the effect. Conclusions: Through this process, we identified an effective, cost-effective, acceptable and scalable policy implementation support model for service delivery. This provides important information to inform or support LHS approaches for other agencies seeking to optimise the health impact of evidence-based interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autistic children and young people (CYP) experience mental health difficulties but face many barriers to accessing and benefiting from mental health care. There is a need to explore strategies in mental health care for autistic CYP to guide clinical practice and future research and support their mental health needs. Our aim was to identify strategies used to improve mental health care for autistic CYP and examine evidence on their acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness. A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out. All study designs reporting acceptability/feasibility outcomes and empirical quantitative studies reporting effectiveness outcomes for strategies tested within mental health care were eligible. We conducted a narrative synthesis and separate meta-analyses by informant (self, parent, and clinician). Fifty-seven papers were included, with most investigating cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)-based interventions for anxiety and several exploring service-level strategies, such as autism screening tools, clinician training, and adaptations regarding organization of services. Most papers described caregiver involvement in therapy and reported adaptations to communication and intervention content; a few reported environmental adjustments. In the meta-analyses, parent- and clinician-reported outcomes, but not self-reported outcomes, showed with moderate certainty that CBT for anxiety was an effective treatment compared to any comparison condition in reducing anxiety symptoms in autistic individuals. The certainty of evidence for effectiveness, synthesized narratively, ranged from low to moderate. Evidence for feasibility and acceptability tended to be positive. Many identified strategies are simple, reasonable adjustments that can be implemented in services to enhance mental health care for autistic individuals. Notable research gaps persist, however. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Elodea nuttallii represents non-native and highly invasive species in Europe that significantly influence freshwater plant communities by decreasing the diversity of native species. This study aimed to determine whether the morphological and anatomical features of Potamogeton gramineus, a native species in Vlasina Lake, differ between sites where it coexists with E. nuttallii and those where E. nuttallii is not present. Environmental variables such as water depth, temperature, pH, conductivity, saturation, and O2 concentration were included in the analysis. Analyses were conducted on 32 morphological and anatomical features of P. gramineus collected from six sites within Vlasina Lake, comprising three sites where E. nuttallii was present and three sites where it was absent. The datasets containing morphometric and environmental variables underwent analysis using standard univariate techniques (Descriptive, ANOVA), Tukey's Honest Significant Difference (HSD) test, Student's t-test, and the Mann–Whitney U test, as well as multivariate statistical methods such as Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CDA). The results show the presence of morphological differentiation among P. gramineus individuals across the analyzed sites. These findings suggest that morphological and anatomical features, such as epidermis, mesophyll, palisade, and aerenchyma tissue thickness in floating leaves, number, length, width, and the surface area of stomata, as well as the width of submersed leaves and stem aerenchyma tissue thickness, effectively differentiate individuals that coexist with E. nuttallii and individuals that growth without its presence. Moreover, they indicate that P. gramineus exhibits a notable ability to modify its morphological traits in response to invasion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autistic adults experience high rates of metal health difficulties and face significant barriers to accessing appropriate mental health care. Empirical research and recent professional guidelines emphasise the importance of modifying standard mental health interventions to best meet the needs of autistic adults. This systematic review explored mental health professionals' experiences of adapting mental health interventions for autistic adults. A systematic search was conducted on CINAHL, PsychINFO, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in July 2022. The findings from 13 identified studies were synthesised using thematic synthesis. Three major analytical themes were generated, the unique experience of adapting interventions for autistic clients, factors which facilitate successful adaptations, and challenges to adapting interventions. Each theme contained a number of subsequent sub-themes. Professionals view the process of adapting interventions to be a highly individualised process. A range of personal traits, professional experiences, and systemic, service-based issues were identified in facilitating or challenging this individualised process. Further research regarding adaptations with different intervention models and increased supportive resources are required to enable professionals to successfully adapt interventions for autistic adult clients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Álabe is the property of Alabe and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

A closed season policy has emerged as an ocean governance strategy aimed at protecting and conserving fish stocks across countries and coastal areas. Its implementation has produced traces of vulnerabilities, and forms of livelihood adaptations and alternative livelihood opportunities. However, little is known about how these occur among gender groups. This paper therefore focuses on the gender dimensions of vulnerabilities, adaptations and alternative livelihoods during the closed season in Elmina, Ghana, within the feminist political ecology framework. It employed Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) from purposively selected fishermen and fish processors. The study found significant differences in the vulnerability patterns among the gender groups, albeit some similarities. We further observed more fluid roles among the women than the men because the women were ready to undertake alternative livelihood options that were traditionally male-based during the closed season. Based on these results, we contend that political decisions toward environmental sustainability may create vulnerability and fluid adaptation patterns which may vary among gender groups in the light of their differential patterns of access, control and positionalities within the fishing industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A broad set of tools, frameworks, and guidance documents are available for water resources project planning, design, evaluation, and implementation in an ever-evolving world. The principles underlying most of these resources aim to advance the practice of water systems engineering under uncertainty, preserve and enhance project benefits, and achieve investment goals. Approaches to financial and economic evaluation under climate uncertainty in civil infrastructure investments, in particular, are currently being reviewed by academics and practitioners in the field to assess their ability to deliver resilience, sustainability, and equity. In climate-sensitive projects, adaptation measures that help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and preserve project benefits are required, and stakeholder willingness-to-pay (WTP) for these must be assessed. Typically, stakeholders and decision-makers utilize the outcomes of economic assessment methods such as cost–benefit analysis (CBA) to justify large capital investments. Synthesizing previous advancements in water resources planning and evaluation, this study illustrates how a CBA framework can be augmented by applying a Climate-informed Robustness Index (CRI). The analytics underpinning the CRI, as well as the summary metric itself, help characterize project climate vulnerability, while conducting CBA with and without potential adaptation measures can be used to estimate WTP of investors for adaptation to the identified climate vulnerabilities. The case study of a planned irrigated agriculture project in Lesotho highlights critical climate conditions for which adaptation measures such as integrated catchment management (ICM) plans can be introduced to safeguard project robustness.

Community engagement is increasingly considered a key component of intervention development, as it can leverage community members’ knowledge, experiences, and insights to create a nuanced intervention which meets the needs, preferences, and realities of the population of interest. Community engagement exists along a spectrum from outreach to the community to partnership with community members and organizations, and all levels of community engagement can benefit from systematic documentation of community feedback and decision-making processes. This paper demonstrates how we utilized the “Framework for Reporting Adaptations and Modifications to Evidence-based Interventions” (FRAME; Wiltsey Stirman et al., 2019) model to track and report adaptations to our dementia end-of-life care planning intervention based on community engagement via a project-specific Community Advisory Board (CAB). Using FRAME, we generated a comprehensive report of the iterative changes made to our pilot intervention, including whether the change was planned, who made the decision to modify the intervention, the nature of the change, its relationship to intervention fidelity, and the reason for the change. This process ensured that we effectively integrated feedback and assistance from our CAB, increased the appropriateness of our intervention for our population of interest, established criteria to monitor intervention fidelity, and prepared our team to run a rigorous clinical trial of the revised intervention. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT05909189.

The article considers different imitative approaches to Charles Dickens’ novella “The Cricket on the Hearth” (1845). Our focus is on two groups of adaptations of Dickens’ work: (1) the “plot (non-stylistic) adaptations” and (2) imitations with elements of stylization. Adaptations appear as re-readings of the novella, which undergo literary simplification (cf. digest). Among such, we consider creative rehashings (including those for children) and scripts, which might be fleshed out with the help of theatrical and cinematic art. A separate group consists of stylistic imitations with occasional allusions to Dickensian narrative; however, they do not closely follow original storylines. The article pays attention to opinions expressed by Stanislavsky and Eisenstein regarding Cricket’s adjustment to the medium of theater and film. It also discusses some specifics of the Dickensian metaphor reflected in stylistic imitations and disregarded by non-stylistic adaptations.

BACKGROUND: While depression is a leading cause of poor health, less than half of older adults receive adequate care. Inequities in both access and outcomes are even more pronounced for socially disadvantaged older adults. The collaborative care model (CCM) has potential to reduce this burden through community-based organizations (CBOs) who serve these populations. However, CCM has been understudied in diverse cultural and resource-constrained contexts. We evaluated the implementation and effectiveness of PEARLS, a home-based CCM adapted with and for community health workers/promotores (CHWs/Ps). METHODS: We used an instrumental case study design. Our case definition is a community-academic partnership to build CHW/P capacity for evidence-based depression care for older U.S. Latino adults in the Inland Empire region of California (2017-2020). We aimed to understand adaptations to fit local context; acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity; clinical effectiveness; and contextual determinants of implementation success or failure. Data sources included quantitative and qualitative administrative and evaluation data from participants and providers. We used descriptive statistics and paired t-tests to characterize care delivery and evaluate effectiveness post-intervention, and deductive thematic analysis to answer other aims. FINDINGS: This case study included 152 PEARLS participants and nine data sources (N = 67 documents). The CBO including their CHWs/Ps partnered with the external implementation team made adaptations to PEARLS content, context, and implementation strategies to support CHWs/Ps and older adults. PEARLS was acceptable, feasible and delivered with fidelity. Participants showed significant reductions in depression severity at 5 months (98% clinical response rate [mean (SD), 13.7 (3.9) drop in pre/post PHQ-9; p < 0.001] and received support for 2.6 social needs on average. PEARLS delivery was facilitated by its relative advantage, adaptability, and trialability; the teams collective efficacy, buy-in, alignment with organization mission, and ongoing reflection and evaluation during implementation. Delivery was challenged by weak partnerships with clinics for participant referral, engagement, reimbursement, and sustainability post-grant funding. DISCUSSION: This case study used existing data to learn how home-based CCM was adapted by and for CHWs/Ps to reduce health inequities in late-life depression and depression care among older Latino immigrants. The CBOs and CHWs/Ps strong trust and rapport, addressing social and health needs alongside depression care, and regular internal and external coaching and consultation, appeared to drive successful implementation and effectiveness.

IntroductionPlant functional traits (FTs) are important for understanding plant ecological strategies (e.g., drought avoidance), especially in the nutrient-poor soils of serpentine ecosystems. In the Mediterranean areas, such ecosystems are characterized by climatic factors (e.g., summer drought) that exert a filtering effect.Material and methodsIn our study, we analyzed 24 species with varying serpentine affinity, from strictly serpentine plants to generalist plants, from two ultramafic shrublands in southern Spain, considering four FTs: plant height (H), leaf area (LA), specific leaf area (SLA), and stem specific density (SSD). Additionally, we also identified the species' dominant strategies to avoid drought and those strategies' relationship to serpentine affinity. We used principal component analysis to identify combinations of FTs, and cluster analysis to define Functional Groups (FGs).Results and discussionWe defined eight FGs, which suggests that such Mediterranean serpentine shrublands are composed of species with wide-ranging of FTs. Indicator traits explained 67-72% of the variability based on four strategies: (1) lower H than in other Mediterranean ecosystems; (2) middling SSD; (3) low LA; and (4) low SLA due to thick and/or dense leaves, which contribute to long leaf survival, nutrient retention, and protection from desiccation and herbivory. Generalist plants had higher SLA than obligate serpentine plants, whereas the obligate serpentine plants showed more drought avoidance mechanisms than the generalists. Although most plant species inhabiting Mediterranean serpentine ecosystems have shown similar ecological adaptations in response to the Mediterranean environment, our results suggest that serpentine obligate plant species could present greater resilience to climate change. Given greater number and more pronounced drought avoidance mechanisms in these species compared with generalists, and the high number of FGs identified, the serpentine plants have shown adaptation to severe drought.

This paper focuses on the perceptions of Irish primary teachers about Lesson Study as a professional development model. To further our understanding of the characteristics of Lesson Study and its compatibility with the Irish educational context, the opinions of primary teachers are fundamental. Within this study, 19 primary teachers across eight urban schools engaged in Lesson Study for the first time, working within four grade-level Lesson Study groups. The findings suggest that while primary teachers were newcomers to Lesson Study, they were eager to engage and welcomed many of its characteristics. Notably, they valued the focus on collaboration and particular Lesson Study practices. Teachers' engagement was hampered by the barrier of time. The paper explores additional adaptations to the Lesson Study approach that participants perceived would develop a more realistic and sustainable Lesson Study model within their particular educational context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seasonal acclimatization is known to result in adaptations that can improve heat tolerance. Staff who operate on burn injuries are exposed to thermally stressful conditions and seasonal acclimatization may improve their thermoeffector responses during surgery. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the physiological and perceptual responses of staff who operate on burn injuries during summer and winter, to determine whether they become acclimatized to the heated operating theater. Eight staff members had physiological and perceptual responses compared during burn surgeries conducted in thermoneutral (CON: 24.1 ± 1.2°C, 45 ± 7% relative humidity [RH]) and heated (HOT: 31.3 ± 1.6°C, 44 ± 7% RH) operating theaters, in summer and winter. Physiological parameters that were assessed included core temperature, heart rate, total sweat loss, sweat rate, and urinary specific gravity. Perceptual responses included ratings of thermal sensation and comfort. In summer, CON compared to winter CON, baseline (85 ± 15 bpm VS 94 ± 18 bpm), mean (84 ± 16 bpm VS 93 ± 18 bpm), and peak HR (94 ± 17 bpm VS 105 ± 19 bpm) were lower (p < 0.05), whereas core temperature was not different between seasons in either condition (p > 0.05). In HOT, ratings of discomfort were higher in summer (15 ± 3) than winter (13 ± 3; p > 0.05), but ratings of thermal sensation and sweat rate were similar between seasons (p > 0.05). The surgical team in burns in Western Australia can obtain some of the physiological adaptations that result from seasonal acclimatization, but not all. That is most likely due to a lower than required amount of outdoor heat exposure in summer, to induce all physiological and perceptual adaptations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Lilloa is the property of Fundacion Miguel Lillo and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)