Cluster environments influence galaxy evolution by curtailing star formation activity, notably through ram-pressure stripping (RPS). This process can leave observable signatures – such as gas tails and truncated gas discs – that are crucial for understanding how RPS affects galaxies. In this study, using spatially resolved spectroscopic data from the SAMI Galaxy Survey, we identify galaxies undergoing or recently affected by RPS in eight nearby clusters (${0.029\lt z\lt 0.058}$), through a visual classification scheme based on the ionised gas (H$\alpha$+[NII]$\lambda$6584) morphologies, split into ‘unperturbed’, ‘asymmetric’, and ‘truncated’. Alongside, we measure non-parametric structural parameters (concentration, asymmetry, and offset between gas and stars) to quantify the ionised gas morphologies. We find that combinations of parameters such as concentration, shape asymmetry, and stellar-ionised gas centre offsets are useful in categorising the degree of RPS in line with their ionised gas morphologies. The projected phase-space analysis shows that asymmetric galaxies are found in a narrow region in cluster-centric distance (${0.1\lt R/R_{200}\lt 0.6}$, where ${R}_{200}$ is the characteristic cluster radius) and have a larger dispersion in line-of-sight velocity ($\sigma(|v_{\text{pec}}|)_\mathrm{Asym} = 0.71^{+0.09}_{-0.07}\ \sigma_{200}$, with $\sigma_{200}$ being the cluster velocity dispersion within ${R}_{200}$), compared to the truncated and unperturbed samples that are more broadly distributed and predominantly located at larger cluster-centric distances. This suggests that asymmetric galaxies are likely recent infallers – having crossed within 0.5 $R{_{200}}$ in the past $\sim$1 Gyr. In terms of star formation, RPS candidates (asymmetric and truncated) yield a much steeper resolved star-forming main sequence (rSFMS; $\Sigma_\mathrm{SFR} - \Sigma_\ast$) relation compared to the unperturbed counterparts, primarily emerging from having lower $\Sigma_\mathrm{SFR}$ values for the low mass density regime (i.e. $\mathrm{log} \ \Sigma_\ast \lesssim 8 \ \mathrm{M}_\odot \ \mathrm{kpc^{-2}}$), with the steepest gradient deriving from the truncated sample. Moreover, radial specific star formation rate profiles introduce different trends for unperturbed and RPS candidates. Star formation in RPS candidates is suppressed in the outskirts relative to unperturbed galaxies and is more prominent for the truncated sample compared to the asymmetric counterparts. In contrast, central (i.e. ${r/r_{\text{eff}}} \lt 0.5$) star formation activity in RPS candidates is comparable with that in their unperturbed and field counterparts, suggesting no elevated activity. Taken together, this suggests an evolutionary trend linked to the RPS stage, where unperturbed galaxies likely represent recently accreted systems (pre-RPS), while asymmetric and truncated galaxies may correspond to populations undergoing RPS and post-RPS phases, respectively, favouring outside-in quenching.

This study investigated the hypothesis that a natural biopolymer system could simultaneously mitigate and detect aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) contamination in milk. AFM₁, the hydroxylated metabolite of aflatoxin B₁, is a potent carcinogen that remains stable during milk processing and continues to pose significant food safety concerns. The research therefore aimed to determine the prevalence of moulds and AFM1 in raw buffalo and cow milk from Giza Governorate, Egypt, and to evaluate the performance of a novel natural biopolymer complex composed of chitosan, β-cyclodextrin, AFM₁-specific antibodies and anthocyanins, designed for dual functionality in AFM₁ adsorption and diagnostic signal enhancement. Total mould counts were assessed following the ISO protocol, while milk composition and somatic cell count (SCC) were determined by Bentley 150 scan. AFM1 detection was initially performed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC) and subsequently quantified by a validated reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method. The HPLC method exhibited excellent performance with linearity (R2 = 0.99999), sensitivity (LOD 0.002 µg/L, LOQ 0.007 µg/L) and precision (RSD ≤ 1.5%). The lowering in milk compositional quality was statistically significant (P < 0.05) with elevated SCC in AFM₁-positive samples. Screening revealed AFM1 contamination in 28% of buffalo and 56% of cow milk samples, with mean concentrations of 0.084 µg/L and 0.188 µg/L, respectively. Application of the natural biopolymer achieved AFM1 reductions of 65–73% in buffalo milk and 83–90% in cow milk, while anthocyanins within the polymer provided concentration-dependent diagnostic signals. Sensory evaluation indicated that treated milk maintained acceptable organoleptic properties without adverse effects on compositional quality. These findings emphasise the prospective use of natural biopolymers as dual-function analytical and mitigation tools for AFM1 in milk, offering a reliable approach for routine milk safety monitoring.

Polarimetric multi-offset radio-echo sounding offers improved constraints on englacial thermal conditions, basal properties and ice crystal orientation compared to standard monostatic observations. Nevertheless, such surveys are uncommon in glaciology and are typically limited in offset due to cable losses. In the 2023–24 austral summer, we deployed two radar systems on Eastwind Glacier and the McMurdo Ice Shelf in Antarctica, collecting five polarimetric common-midpoint (CMP) surveys. Using an Autonomous phase-sensitive Radio-Echo Sounder (ApRES), modified with off-the-shelf radio frequency-over-fiber (RFoF) hardware and a low-loss fiber optic link, we detect bed reflections at offsets up to the equivalent of four ice thicknesses, well beyond the theoretical point of total internal reflection. A second, cable-less system built around a software-defined radio (SDR) was deployed simultaneously as an unsynchronized receiver recording the same ApRES transmitter. These co-located datasets demonstrate the potential for cabled radar systems with integrated RFoF technology for extending maximum offsets by overcoming attenuation losses inherent to coaxial cables. Furthermore, we perform polarimetric amplitude-vs-offset analysis to probe glacier dielectric structure. Finally, we present data from deployment of the fiber optic system on Thwaites Glacier, where we detect bed reflections at an offset of 4 km, demonstrating operation on thick ice (~2.2 km).

As the global population ages, the prevalence of cognitive decline is rising, creating urgent demand for proactive strategies that support brain health and healthy ageing. Ergothioneine, a unique dietary amino-thione absorbed via the OCTN1 transporter, has recently gained attention for its potential as a neuroprotective, longevity-promoting compound. This review synthesizes growing evidence from observational, interventional and mechanistic studies. Observational data consistently associate low blood ergothioneine levels with cognitive impairment, neurodegenerative diseases, cardiovascular disorders, frailty and mortality. Interventional trials in older adults suggest that ergothioneine supplementation may improve cognition, memory, sleep quality and stabilize neurodegeneration biomarkers, with no safety concerns at doses up to 25 mg/day. Mechanistic studies reveal that ergothioneine acts through multiple pathways: mitigating oxidative stress, reducing neuroinflammation, preserving mitochondrial function and potentially modulating neurogenesis and NAD+ metabolism, although some mechanisms require further investigation. Beyond cognition, ergothioneine shows promise in supporting other physiological systems relevant to ageing, including cardiovascular, metabolic, gut, eye, auditory, liver, kidney, immune, skin and lung health. Together, current evidence positions ergothioneine as a promising nutritional intervention for promoting cognitive resilience and systemic health in ageing, although larger, long-term interventional trials are needed to confirm causality and optimize use.

Parachute science is the problematic and extractive practice of non-local researchers taking data, knowledge and information from communities of which they are not members, failing to engage the local community and local scientists, marginalizing them in most aspects of the research, and using the results to their own benefit. Perpetuated by colonialism and unequal access to resources such as funding, education and data, it is harmful to local scientists and undervalues the contributions of the community as a whole. Ultimately, it erodes trust within the scientific community and, more broadly, builds dependence on foreign researchers and makes science less global and collaborative. Increasing international and cross-cultural collaborations while being careful to avoid parachute science can help minimize these impacts. Here, we offer our perspectives on parachute science and suggestions on how to avoid it, based on our experiences conducting research internationally with diverse scientists and communities, including both academics and non-academics. Instead of a parachute, we suggest opening the scientific “umbrella” to incorporate diverse perspectives and local contributions in generating relevant and impactful scientific insight.

Current clinical guidelines for people at risk of heart disease in Australia recommend nutrition intervention in conjunction with pharmacotherapy(1). However, Australians living in rural and remote regions have less access to medical nutritional therapy (MNT) provided by Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) than their urban counterparts(2). The aim of the HealthyRHearts study was to trial the delivery of MNT by APDs using telehealth to eligible patients of General Practitioners (GPs) located in small to large rural towns in the Hunter New England region(3) of New South Wales, Australia. The study design was a 12-month pragmatic randomised controlled trial. The key outcome was reduced total cholesterol. The study was place-based, meaning many of the research team and APDs were based rurally, to ensure the context of the GPs and patients was already known. Eligible participants were those assessed as moderate-to-high risk of CVD by their GP. People in the intervention group received five MNT consults (totalling two hours) delivered via telehealth by APDs, and also answered a personalised nutrition questionnaire to guide their priorities and to support personalised dietary behaviour change during the counselling. Both intervention and control groups received usual care from their GP and were provided access to the Australian Eating Survey (Heart version), a 242-item online food frequency questionnaire with technology-supported personalised nutrition reports that evaluated intake relative to heart healthy eating principles. Of the 192 people who consented to participate, 132 were eligible due to their moderate-to-high risk. Pre-post participant medication use with a registered indication(4) for hypercholesterolemia, hypertension and glycemic control were documented according to class and strength (defined daily dose: DDD)(5). Nine GP practices (with 91 participants recruited) were randomised to the intervention group and seven practices (41 participants) were randomised to control. Intervention participants attended 4.3 ± 1.4 out of 5 dietetic consultations offered. Of the132 people with baseline clinical chemistry, 103 also provided a 12-month sample. Mean total cholesterol at baseline was 4.97 ± 1.13 mmol/L for both groups, with 12-m reduction of 0.26 ± 0.77 for intervention and 0.28 ± 0.79 for control (p = 0.90, unadjusted value). Median (IQR) number of medications for the intervention group was 2 (1–3) at both baseline and 12 months (p = 0.78) with 2 (1–3) and 3 (2–3) for the control group respectively. Combined DDD of all medications was 2.1 (0.5–3.8) and 2.5 (0.75–4.4) at baseline and 12 months (p = 0.77) for the intervention group and 2.7 (1.5–4.0) and 3.0 (2.0–4.5) for the control group (p = 0.30). Results suggest that medications were a significant contributor to the management of total cholesterol. Further analysis is required to evaluate changes in total cholesterol attributable to medication prescription relative to the MNT counselling received by the intervention group.

Paediatric ventricular assist device patients, including those with single ventricle anatomy, are increasingly managed outside of the ICU. We used retrospective chart review of our single centre experience to quantify adverse event rates and ICU readmissions for 22 complex paediatric patients on ventricular assist device support (15 two ventricles, 7 single ventricle) after floor transfer. The median age was 1.65 years. The majority utilised the Berlin EXCOR (17, 77.3%). There were 9 ICU readmissions with median length of stay of 2 days. Adverse events were noted in 9 patients (41%), with infection being most common (1.8 events per patient year). There were no deaths. Single ventricle patients had a higher proportion of ICU readmission and adverse events. ICU readmission rates were low, and adverse event rates were comparable to published rates suggesting ventricular assist device patients can be safely managed on the floor.

The authors report on ancient DNA data from two human skeletons buried within the chancel of the 1608–1616 church at the North American colonial settlement of Jamestown, Virginia. Available archaeological, osteological and documentary evidence suggest that these individuals are Sir Ferdinando Wenman and Captain William West, kinsmen of the colony's first Governor, Thomas West, Third Baron De La Warr. Genomic analyses of the skeletons identify unexpected maternal relatedness as both carried the mitochondrial haplogroup H10e. In this unusual case, aDNA prompted further historical research that led to the discovery of illegitimacy in the West family, an aspect of identity omitted, likely intentionally, from genealogical records.

Glauconite from the oxidized and reduced zones of soil-geologic columns at two Coastal Plain sites, one in Maryland and one in New Jersey, was examined by Mössbauer spectroscopy. The data indicate that glauconite in the reduced zones had a higher proportion of its structural iron in the ferrous, as opposed to the ferric state. The Fe2+/Fe3+ ratio ranged from 0 to 0.2 for the glauconite from the oxidized zone and was about 0.35 for the glauconite in the reduced zones. Despite the presence of pyrite in the reduced zone, which might be expected to make ferric iron unstable because of the presence of sulfide S, about 75% of the Fe in the glauconite in the reduced zone was in the ferric state. Thin section analysis showed some glauconite in the reduced zones to be intimately associated with pyrite and some aggregates of fine pyrite crystals were locally present in cracks in glauconite pellets. In the oxidized zones, pyrite was absent and the glauconite was more yellow under plane-polarized light, as opposed to more green for the glauconite in the reduced zones. These data indicate that reports of studies of glauconite should stipulate whether samples are from the oxidized or reduced zone of soil-geologic columns.

The microbiology of cardiac implantable electronic device (CIED) infections in Calgary, Alberta was described, identifying 50 infections from 2013 to 2019. The majority were Staphylococcus aureus (40.0%). There is significant economic burden, mostly related to inpatient costs, associated with CIED infections. However, there were no significant differences in costs stratified by organism.

In conflict-affected settings, prevalence of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) can be high. However, limited practical information exists on AUD management in low-income settings. Using a theory of change (ToC) approach, we aimed to identify pathways influencing the implementation and maintenance of a new transdiagnostic psychological intervention (“CHANGE”), targeting both psychological distress and AUDs in humanitarian settings. Three half-day workshops in Uganda engaged 41 stakeholders to develop a ToC map. ToC is a participatory program theory approach aiming to create a visual representation of how and why an intervention leads to specific outcomes. Additionally, five semi-structured interviews were conducted to explore experiences of stakeholders that participated in the ToC workshops. Two necessary pathways influencing the implementation and maintenance of CHANGE were identified: policy impact, and mental health service delivery. Barriers identified included policy gaps, limited recognition of social determinants and the need for integrated follow-up care. Interviewed participants valued ToC’s participatory approach and expressed concerns about its adaptability in continuously changing contexts (e.g., humanitarian settings). Our study underscores ToC’s value in delineating context-specific outcomes and identifies areas requiring further attention. It emphasizes the importance of early planning and stakeholder engagement for sustainable implementation of psychological interventions in humanitarian settings.

The optimal management of bacteriuria/pyuria of clinically undetermined significance (BPCUS) is unknown. Among 220 emergency department patients prescribed antibiotics for BPCUS, we found frequent readmissions, which were mitigated by outpatient follow-up visits. Observation and follow-up for an unknown diagnosis should be emphasized over antibiotics due to high likelihood of readmissions.

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Although gut fungi have been implicated in the immunopathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease, the fungal microbiome has not been deeply explored across endo-histologic activity and treatment-exposure in ulcerative colitis. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: Our retrospective cohort was derived from the Study of a Prospective Adult Research Cohort with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. We evaluated the fungal composition of fecal samples from 98 ulcerative colitis patients across endoscopic activity (n=43), endo-histologic activity (n=41), and biologic-exposure (n=98). Across all subgroups, we assessed fungal diversity and differential abundance of specific taxonomic groups. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: We identified 504 unique fungal amplicon sequence variants across the cohort of 98 patients, dominated by phylum Ascomycota. Compared to endoscopic remission, patients with endoscopic activity had an increased global fungus load (p DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Endoscopic inflammation in ulcerative colitis is associated with altered fungal diversity driven by expansion of Saccharomyces and Candida compared to remission. The role of these fungal taxa as potential biomarkers and targets for personalized approaches to therapeutics in ulcerative colitis should be evaluated.