Complex Program Research Articles

Process evaluation of an urban piped water supply infrastructure improvement programme in Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Major investments in water supply infrastructure will be required to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6. Safely managed water services are also central to global cholera and diarrhoeal diseases prevention strategies. However, evidence remains scarce on how to efficiently improve piped water services in complex settings where infrastructure investments are most needed. We conducted a process evaluation of a large-scale water supply infrastructure improvement programme in Uvira, Democratic Republic of the Congo, in parallel to a pragmatic trial. Considering three evaluation domains–context, implementation, and population response–, we assessed the validity of the programme’s theory of change and underlying assumptions. Information sources included construction works documentation, operational and billing records from the water utility, and household surveys. The evaluation covers the period 2014–2021. Trial results are not within the scope of this manuscript. The programme did not achieve expected improvements in the water supply service during the evaluation period. Out of 16 assumptions underlying the theory of change, six remained valid, seven partially valid, and three turned out to be invalid. Contextual challenges included extreme flooding in 2020 and the Covid-19 pandemic, which disrupted construction works. Issues related to electricity supply and the rise of Lake Tanganyika emphasise the need for cross-sectoral approaches and consideration of climate change in the planning of water supply infrastructure. Implementation challenges underlined the importance of capacity strengthening alongside infrastructure improvements. Population response elements suggest that affordability and informal practices such as tap sharing should be taken into account. The programme was a good example of early engagement with researchers and provides unique insights into the implementation of large-scale infrastructure improvements in a complex, low-income setting. Pragmatic evaluation approaches should be adopted for the generation of scientific evidence from complex programmes in order to optimise future infrastructure investments contributing to progress towards SDG6.

Motif mapping during chickpea germination reveals a complex sequential activation of different proteolytic activities.

Despite the importance of grains and legumes in the human diet, little is known regarding peptide release and the temporal changes of protease activities during seed germination. LC/MS-MS peptidomic analysis of two cultivars of germinating chickpea followed by computational analyses indicated cleavage dominated by proteases with a single position preference (mainly before (P1) or after cleavage (P1'): L at P2 (cysEP-like); R or K at P1 (vignain-like), N or Q at P1 (legumain-like); and previously unidentified K, R, A and S at P1'; A at P2'). While P1 N cleavages were relatively constant, P1' K/R preferences were high in soaked garbanzo (kabuli) seeds, declined by four days, and returned at six days, but were much rarer in the brown (desi) cultivar. Late Embryogenesis Associated (LEA) peptides were markedly released during early germination. Vicilin peptides rich in glutamic acid near their N-termini markedly increased with germination, consistent with strong proteolytic resistance, even to human digestion, as indicated by analyses of separate datasets. Thus, this first peptidomics study of seed germination proteolytic profiles unveils a complex cultivar-specific programme of sequential activation and inactivation of a series of proteases, associated with the differential release of peptides from different protein groups.

Linear Programming-Based Sparse Kernel Regression with L1-Norm Minimization for Nonlinear System Modeling

This paper integrates L1-norm structural risk minimization with L1-norm approximation error to develop a new optimization framework for solving the parameters of sparse kernel regression models, addressing the challenges posed by complex model structures, over-fitting, and limited modeling accuracy in traditional nonlinear system modeling. The first L1-norm regulates the complexity of the model structure to maintain its sparsity, while another L1-norm is essential for ensuring modeling accuracy. In the optimization of support vector regression (SVR), the L2-norm structural risk is converted to an L1-norm framework through the condition of non-negative Lagrange multipliers. Furthermore, L1-norm optimization for modeling accuracy is attained by minimizing the maximum approximation error. The integrated L1-norm of structural risk and approximation errors creates a new, simplified optimization problem that is solved using linear programming (LP) instead of the more complex quadratic programming (QP). The proposed sparse kernel regression model has the following notable features: (1) it is solved through relatively simple LP; (2) it effectively balances the trade-off between model complexity and modeling accuracy; and (3) the solution is globally optimal rather than just locally optimal. In our three experiments, the sparsity metrics of SVs% were 2.67%, 1.40%, and 0.8%, with test RMSE values of 0.0667, 0.0701, 0.0614 (sinusoidal signal), and 0.0431 (step signal), respectively. This demonstrates the balance between sparsity and modeling accuracy.

COUNTERING DISINFORMATION POLICY: CHALLENGES FOR UKRAINE’S NATIONAL SECURITY

he article examines the problems of combating disinformation in the conditions of a modern full-scale war and overcoming the challenges facing the national security of Ukraine. The concept of disinformation, its impact on public consciousness and the key mechanisms of the spread of false information are outlined. The main directions of the policy of combating disinformation aimed at ensuring information security and resistance to information attacks have been studied. The importance of the development of media literacy among the population as one of the main tools for countering disinformation campaigns through educational programs and social interaction is revealed. The experience of combating disinformation in the developed countries of the world, the USA and the countries of the European Union, is analyzed. The role of state and international initiatives, the cooperation of governments with technology companies, as well as the implementation of legislative mechanisms are highlighted. The main tools aimed at regulating the spread of false information in the information space are revealed. The study emphasizes the importance of active cooperation with international partners to ensure an effective fight against disinformation at the global level. Special attention is paid to the role of international organizations in the formation of a unified strategy for countering disinformation attacks. Prospects for attracting international support for the development of national information protection systems and Ukraine's participation in global information security initiatives are being considered. Proposed means of an effective policy of combating disinformation, which combine legislative, technical and educational measures. The methods of ensuring resistance to external information threats are characterized. Particular attention is paid to media literacy programs, which have become important elements of national strategies in the fight against fakes and disinformation attacks. The article considers the possibilities of implementing international experience in Ukraine with the aim of strengthening national information security. The expediency of developing complex programs, including the strengthening of modern means of monitoring the information space and raising the level of critical thinking among the population, is analyzed. Emphasis is placed on the need to create a national security strategy for combating disinformation, which will allow effective response to new threats and ensure information security in the conditions of modern warfare.

23 Probing bias: Understanding the experiences of Black, Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) caregivers for children with developmental disabilities and their involvement with child protection

Abstract Background In Canada and abroad, a disproportionate number of Black Indigenous and Persons of Colour (BIPOC) experience referral to child protective services (CPS). Children with developmental disabilities, including Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) and intellectual disabilities (IDD), are also disproportionately CPS-involved. Recent Canadian research has suggested that almost a quarter of children from a complex care paediatric program are CPS-involved, however there is no known research for ASD/IDD populations seen in a general paediatric clinic. Further, intersections of race/ethnicity and ASD/IDD and CPS involvement have not been examined. Objectives We are conducting a mixed methods study to explore the intersections of race, developmental disabilities and involvement with CPS for our paediatric population. Design/Methods Phase 1: We completed a retrospective cohort study of 349 patients (0-18 years of age) who were seen by a paediatrician and social worker at a large, hospital-based paediatric clinic in Toronto, Canada in 2019. Electronic medical record data was reviewed and the following binary variables (yes/no) coded CPS-involved or referral made, 1+ caregiver identify as BIPOC, and primary language of caregiver(s) not English. Results Preliminary analyses indicate that 11.7% of our sample is CPS-involved. Contrary to over-representation of BIPOC families in the general CPS population, we found that the proportion of families involved with CPS was lower for BIPOC than non-BIPOC families. A similar pattern was observed for primary language, with a trend towards caregivers who reported English as a second language being less likely to be CPS-involved. In our presentation, we will present analyses regarding the type and intensity of CPS involvement and include other demographic characteristics of the family. These findings will be interpreted with findings from Phase 2 (currently underway), which explores lived experiences of 40 caregivers involved with CPS drawn from Phase 1. Conclusion Within an ASD/IDD patient sample, BIPOC families were less likely to be involved with CPS than non-BIPOC families. This finding is in stark contrast to provincial rates that suggest a 2.2 times greater likelihood of CPS-involvement for Black youth. While these results on the surface suggest equity, they may still reflect bias. It is possible that the concerns of BIPOC families are being downplayed in comparison to non-BIPOC families, reducing their access to supportive services.

A FMRFamide-like neuropeptide FLP-12 signaling regulates head locomotive behaviors in C. elegans

Neuropeptides play a critical role in regulating behaviors across organisms, but the precise mechanisms by which neuropeptides orchestrate complex behavioral programs are not fully understood. Here, we show that the FMRFamide-like neuropeptide FLP-12 signaling from the SMB head motor neurons, modulates head locomotive behaviors, including stomatal oscillation in C. elegans. lim-4 mutants, in which the SMB neurons are not properly specified, exhibited various head and body locomotive defects, including stomatal oscillation. Chronic activation or inhibition of neuropeptidergic signaling in the SMB motor neurons resulted in a decrease or increase in stomatal oscillation, respectively. The flp-12 neuropeptide gene is expressed and acts in the SMB neurons to regulate head and body locomotion, including stomatal oscillation. Moreover, the frpr-8 GPCR and gpa-7 Gα genes are expressed in the AVD command interneurons to relay the FLP-12 signal to mediate stomatal oscillation. Finally, heterologous expression of FRPR-8 either Xenopus oocytes or HEK293T cells conferred FLP-12 induced responses. Taken together, these results indicate that the C. elegans FMRFamide neuropeptide FLP-12 acts as a modulator of stomatal oscillation via the FRPR-8 GPCR and the GPA-7 G-protein.

Opportunities to rehabilitation of multimorbid patients with asthma and obesity

BACKGROUND: The challenges of rehabilitation and achieving asthma control in patients with multimorbid conditions remain relevant despite advances in asthma treatment. Improving therapeutic approaches requires not only the development of new drugs, but also the creation of comprehensive individualized rehabilitation programs. AIM: To develop complex rehabilitation programs for patients with asthma and multimorbid diseases (obesity, osteoarthritis) and assess their impact on asthma and comorbid conditions. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 70 patients with asthma and obesity were divided into two groups: a rehabilitation group and a control group. The study evaluated external respiration functions, quality of life using Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (standardized), asthma control with Asthma Control Questionnaire-5 (ACQ-5), multimorbid pathology with Cumulative Illness Rating Scale (CIRS), Lequesne index, exercise capacity via 6-minute walk test, physical activity using questionnaire ODA23+, and levels of interleukin-6, interleukin-4, tumor necrosis factor alpha, leptin. RESULTS: Both groups were comparable across all assessed parameters, with most participants presenting moderate to severe asthma. Physical activity levels were low to moderate. The CIRS index was 10.0 ± 1.1 in group 1 and 9.2 ± 1.1 in group 2 (p 0.05), while the Lequesne index was 9.70 ± 1.47 and 8.80 ± 1 (p = 0.3900), respectively. After rehabilitation program, the Lequesne index in the group 1 decreased by 2.37 ± 0.60 (р 0,05), which correlated with improved exercise tolerance (6-minute walk test) and increased physical activity by 6.57 ± 2.00 (р 0.05), and increased asthma control (with ACQ-5 decreasing by 0.74 ± 0.20 points; р 0.05) and quality of life with Asthma Quality of Life Questionnaire (standardized) 3.8 ± 0.4 to 4.5 ± 0.3 (р 0.05). In group 2, no significant changes were observed in the Lequesne index, physical activity, asthma control, or quality of life (p 0.05). Proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and leptin, decreased significantly in group 1, while the control group showed no significant changes. CONCLUSIONS: Multicomponent rehabilitation programs tailored to the individual characteristics of patients with multimorbid conditions contribute to better management of both asthma and comorbidities. Rehabilitation improves asthma control, quality of life, and exercise tolerance. It also helps to reduce pain syndrome, increase physical activity, and decrease proinflammatory cytokines and leptin levels.

Motion capture and AR based programming by demonstration for industrial robots using handheld teaching device

In the industrial robots field, efficient and convenient programming methods have been a hot research topic. In recent years, immersive simulation technology has been developing rapidly in many fields, which provides new horizons for the development of industrial robots. This paper presents a HTC VIVE laser scan motion capture and Holohens augmented reality (AR) based interactive Programming by Demonstration (PbD) system for industrial robot. A portable Handheld Teaching Device (HTD) and its calibration algorithm are designed in the system. The portable HTD which is tracked by a laser motion capture system can be viewed as an AR robot end-effector to teach paths. Meanwhile, the AR robot can be simulated in real time during programing. In addition, the robot reproducing the operator’s actions at the same position in space is the focus of programming. So, Multi-system registration methods are proposed to determine the relationship between robot systems, motion capture systems and virtual robot systems. Meanwhile, a path planning algorithm is proposed to convert the captured raw path points into robot-executable code. For unskilled operators, they can easily perform complex programming using the HTD. For skilled senior workers, their skills can be quickly learned by robots using the system.

Enhancing Accessibility and Engagement in Computer Science Education for Diverse Learners

This study investigates strategies to transform perceptions of computer science, with the primary objective of identifying educational interventions that can effectively reduce barriers faced by underrepresented groups in computer science education. Historically, this field has been perceived as dominated by complex mathematics and programming, which, reinforced by societal stereotypes, deters many from pursuing careers in technology. Using a mixed-methods approach that includes surveys, interviews, and case studies, the research identifies key barriers, such as gender disparities and misconceptions, while evaluating the effectiveness of various pedagogical approaches and outreach initiatives. Findings reveal that students often struggle with foundational courses, particularly in mathematics and programming concepts. Specific challenges include difficulties in grasping abstract concepts and a lack of confidence in technical skills. However, interventions like interactive teaching methods, mentorship programs, and the incorporation of real-world applications significantly enhance student engagement and academic performance. Active learning strategies and gender-sensitive curricula not only foster more inclusive environments but also enable all students to thrive. The research emphasizes practical recommendations for educators and policymakers, highlighting the need for systemic changes to promote inclusivity in computer science education. Ultimately, these findings contribute to fostering a more diverse and inclusive tech industry, underscoring the broader significance of creating equitable opportunities for all learners in the field.

A-198 ESG Opportunities Harnessed During Pathology Transformation

Abstract Background Synnovis (a SYNLAB business) is in the process of delivering one of the largest Pathology transformation programmes in the UK, moving to a seven-site hub and spoke model from 89 laboratories over a dispersed geography. This remit also presented an opportunity for SYNLAB to deliver on its Environmental Social Governance (ESG) ambitions, by embedding ESG principles into programme delivery. There are several examples within each ESG pillar that demonstrate the benefits to be leveraged during transformation. Methods SYNLAB’s vision is to deliver sustainable diagnostic services. The integration of ESG into both the decision-making process and transformation structure ties these ambitions into programme benefits realisation. As well as setting performance level targets, the delivery of ESG benefits provide measures of success throughout the transformation journey, motivating stakeholders and building confidence along the way. Results Environment: The efficient use of space and LEAN principle design has consolidated the fragmented laboratory services spanning 15,000m2 into a bespoke, cutting-edge Pathology Hub with 6 spokes (hospital based services). The new hub building was designed to achieve BREEAM Excellent standards which measure performance against criteria such as energy management and efficiency, sustainable design and materials. The hub’s energy is from renewable-backed sources, and we will achieve a 47% reduction in CO2 equivalent (CO2e) emissions by unifying a significant proportion of its legacy footprint in this way. Further energy savings will be achieved through the associated analytical equipment consolidation, including a decrease from 50 to 14 microtomes, a decrease of 29 to 15 ventilated benches and a reduction of over 200 fridges and freezers across the service. In addition, substantial CO2e emissions savings are also being delivered by moving to a greener logistics provider, utilising electric vehicles and bikes. 2023 saw such emissions fall by 60% across Synnovis, helping to keep London’s air cleaner. Social: The transformation programme enables the hand back of over 6,000m2 of real estate to Synnovis’ NHS partners to use for critical hospital services (the equivalent of over 150 operating theatres). Governance Both internally and externally, ESG is integrated within the Synnovis organisational culture. For example, internally it applies mandatory sustainability metrics to its solution selection processes. These influenced the selection of Abbott’s Indexor solution to support the transformation of Blood Sciences, delivering a saving of over 2.8 million plastic sample bags every year. Externally, SYNLAB works with its partners to manage this substantial and complex transformation programme. Risk management is assured through transparency, securing confidence in the good use of public funds, ensuring responsiveness to customer and partner feedback, and ensuring accountability for and the delivery of targeted healthcare outcomes. Conclusions The integration of SYNLAB’s ESG strategy within the transformation programme is delivering tangible benefits across all ESG pillars. It has highlighted that in addition to the core outcome of services transformation, there are many more opportunities that can be realised as a result of making ESG an integral part of the pathology transformation programme.

Neural circuit mechanisms underlying context-specific halting in Drosophila

Walking is a complex motor programme involving coordinated and distributed activity across the brain and the spinal cord. Halting appropriately at the correct time is a critical component of walking control. Despite progress in identifying neurons driving halting1–6, the underlying neural circuit mechanisms responsible for overruling the competing walking state remain unclear. Here, using connectome-informed models7–9 and functional studies, we explain two fundamental mechanisms by which Drosophila implement context-appropriate halting. The first mechanism (‘walk-OFF’) relies on GABAergic neurons that inhibit specific descending walking commands in the brain, whereas the second mechanism (‘brake’) relies on excitatory cholinergic neurons in the nerve cord that lead to an active arrest of stepping movements. We show that two neurons that deploy the walk-OFF mechanism inhibit distinct populations of walking-promotion neurons, leading to differential halting of forward walking or turning. The brake neurons, by constrast, override all walking commands by simultaneously inhibiting descending walking-promotion neurons and increasing the resistance at the leg joints. We characterized two behavioural contexts in which the distinct halting mechanisms were used by the animal in a mutually exclusive manner: the walk-OFF mechanism was engaged for halting during feeding and the brake mechanism was engaged for halting and stability during grooming.

Complex sporulation-specific expression of transcription termination factor Rho highlights its involvement in Bacillus subtilis cell differentiation

Termination factor Rho, responsible for the main factor-dependent pathway of transcription termination and the major inhibitor of antisense transcription, is an emerging regulator of various physiological processes in microorganisms. In Gram-positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis, Rho is involved in the control of cell adaptation to starvation and, in particular, in the control of sporulation, a complex differentiation program leading to formation of a highly resistant dormant spore. While the initiation of sporulation requires a decrease in Rho protein levels during the transition to stationary phase, the mechanisms regulating the expression of rho gene throughout the cell cycle remain largely unknown. Here we show that a drop in the activity of the vegetative SigA-dependent rho promoter causes the inhibition of rho expression in stationary phase. However, after the initiation of sporulation, rho gene is specifically reactivated in two compartments of the sporulating cell using distinct mechanisms. In the mother cell, rho expression occurs by read-through transcription initiated at the SigH-dependent promoter of the distal spo0F gene. In the forespore, rho gene is transcribed from the intrinsic promoter recognized by the alternative sigma factor SigF. These regulatory elements ensure the activity of Rho during sporulation, which appears important for the proper formation of spores. We provide experimental evidence that disruption of the spatiotemporal expression of rho during sporulation affects the resistance properties of spores, their morphology, and the ability to return to vegetative growth under favorable growth conditions.

Vul-LMGNNs: Fusing language models and online-distilled graph neural networks for code vulnerability detection

Code Language Models (codeLMs) and Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) are widely used in code vulnerability detection. However, a critical yet often overlooked issue is that GNNs primarily rely on aggregating information from adjacent nodes, limiting structural information transfer to single-layer updates. In code graphs, nodes and relationships typically require cross-layer information propagation to fully capture complex program logic and potential vulnerability patterns. Furthermore, while some studies utilize codeLMs to supplement GNNs with code semantic information, existing integration methods have not fully explored the potential of their collaborative effects.To address these challenges, we introduce Vul-LMGNNs that integrates pre-trained CodeLMs with GNNs, leveraging knowledge distillation to facilitate cross-layer propagation of both code semantic knowledge and structural information. Specifically, Vul-LMGNNs utilizes Code Property Graphs (CPGs) to incorporate code syntax, control flow, and data dependencies, while employing gated GNNs to extract structural information in the CPG. To achieve cross-layer information transmission, we implement an online knowledge distillation (KD) program that enables a single student GNN to acquire structural information extracted from a simultaneously trained counterpart through an alternating training procedure. Additionally, we leverage pre-trained CodeLMs to extract semantic features from code sequences. Finally, we propose an ”implicit-explicit” joint training framework to better leverage the strengths of both CodeLMs and GNNs. In the implicit phase, we utilize CodeLMs to initialize the node embeddings of each student GNN. Through online knowledge distillation, we facilitate the propagation of both code semantics and structural information across layers. In the explicit phase, we perform linear interpolation between the CodeLM and the distilled GNN to learn a late fusion model. The proposed method, evaluated across four real-world vulnerability datasets, demonstrated superior performance compared to 17 state-of-the-art approaches. Our source code can be accessed via GitHub: https://github.com/Vul-LMGNN/vul-LMGGNN.

Transitioning an implementation research intervention to a sustained clinical service: Telehealth primary care mental health integration implementation in Veterans Health Administration.

Often in implementation science efforts, an intervention originated by research funding does not continue in clinical practice after funding ends, or if it does, the process by which it was sustained remains known only to the implementation research or clinical teams. From 2018 to 2020, we implemented a complex telehealth interdisciplinary behavioral health program supported by research funding. The intervention was Primary Care Mental Health Integration (PCMHI) delivered via televideo from a large parent medical facility to rural satellite clinics (tele-PCMHI) within the Veterans Health Administration. Two implementation facilitators worked closely with clinical leaders and staff to plan, launch, and sustain tele-PCMHI across four sites. The intervention is still maintained by the clinical service and has spread to eight sites. Based on ethnographic and qualitative data collected weekly over 2 years, we categorized sustainment strategies across distinct time periods for this complex program, theoretically grounded in the Dynamic Sustainability Framework, emphasizing changes to adapt intervention fit to rapidly changing context. To contextualize, we identified barriers and strengths, such as difficulty training staff to use new equipment, restructuring clinic workflow, and determining suicide risk management remotely. New barriers arose, and, thus, new strategies were needed to continue implementing at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Different strategies at different stages of implementation allowed sustainment to be a dynamic and evolving process. Plus, proactive and persistent planning for sustainment early in the effort, along with alignment with performance metrics and national policy, supported continued delivery in real-world organized care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).

Multifaceted profile of PTH excess-related secondary osteoporosis: customized therapy and rehabilitation approach

Many causes of secondary osteoporosis have been identified; endocrine types (such as those linked to male hypogonadism, Cushing’s syndrome, acromegaly, thyrotoxicosis, primary hyperparathyroidism, etc.) represent one of the most challenging ailments since a personalized approach of the endocrine disease is simultaneous required. We aimed to introduce the case of a senior lady who was diagnosed with secondary osteoporosis that was associated with primary hyperparathyroidism and a conservative approach was decided, from anti-osteoporosis drug and calcium lowering agents to the physical rehabilitation and lifestyle recommendations. She also presented double unilateral adrenal incidentaloma and a pituitary incidentaloma as well as a suspected ovarian cyst that she further declined to investigate. Mitigating the non-surgical management in primary hyperparathyroidism showcase (in addition to the zoledronic acid for both osteoporosis and hypercalcemia) a complex program of rehabilitation that included a diet intervention in terms of an adequate hydration and a personalized nutrition for kidney stones primary and secondary prevention, mild physical exercise, avoidance of calcium supplements and keeping a daily chole-calciferol replacement.

Exploring the transcriptional cooperation between RUNX2 and its associated elncRNA RAIN

Recent insights into the mechanisms controlling gene expression identified enhancer-associated long non-coding RNAs (elncRNAs) as master players of transcription in cancers. RUNX2, a mammalian RUNT-related transcription factor, is increasingly recognized in cancer biology for its role in supporting survival and progression also in thyroid cancer (TC). We recently identified, within the RUNX2 locus, a novel elncRNA that we named RAIN (RUNX2 associated intergenic lncRNA). We showed that RAIN and RUNX2 expression correlate in TC, both in vitro and in vivo, and that RAIN promotes RUNX2 expression by interacting with and affecting the activity of the RUNX2 P2 promoter through two distinct mechanisms. Here, we took forward these observations to explore the genome-wide transcriptional function of RAIN and its contribution to the RUNX2-dependent gene expression program in TC. By combining multiple omics data, we demonstrated that RAIN functionally cooperates with RUNX2 to the regulation of a subset of functionally related genes involved in promoting matrix remodeling, migration, and loss of differentiation. We showed that RAIN interacts with RUNX2 and its expression is required for the efficient recruitment of this TF to its target regulatory regions. In addition, our data revealed that besides RUNX2, RAIN governs a hierarchically organized complex transcriptional program by controlling a core of cancer-associated TFs that, in turn, orchestrate the expression of downstream genes. This evidence indicates that the functional cooperation observed between RAIN and RUNX2 can be a diffuse work mechanism for this elncRNA.

Plant Immunity Modulation in Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Its Impact on Pathogens and Pests

Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) symbiosis is the oldest and most widespread mutualistic association on Earth and involves plants and soil fungi belonging to Glomeromycotina. A complex molecular, cellular, and genetic developmental program enables partner recognition, fungal accommodation in plant tissues, and activation of symbiotic functions such as transfer of phosphorus in exchange for carbohydrates and lipids. AM fungi, as ancient obligate biotrophs, have evolved strategies to circumvent plant defense responses to guarantee an intimate and long-lasting mutualism. They are among those root-associated microorganisms able to boost plants’ ability to cope with biotic stresses leading to mycorrhiza-induced resistance (MIR), which can be effective across diverse hosts and against different attackers. Here, we examine the molecular mechanisms underlying the modulation of plant immunity during colonization by AM fungi and at the onset and display of MIR against belowground and aboveground pests and pathogens. Understanding the MIR efficiency spectrum and its regulation is of great importance to optimizing the biotechnological application of these beneficial microbes for sustainable crop protection.

Uncovering the key working mechanisms of a complex community-based obesity prevention programme in the Netherlands using ripple effects mapping

BackgroundMuch remains unknown about how complex community-based programmes can successfully achieve long-term impact. More insight is needed to understand the key mechanisms through which these programmes work. Therefore, we conducted an in-depth study in five communities that implemented the Healthy Youth, Healthy Future (JOGG) approach, a Dutch community-based obesity prevention programme. We aimed to identify perceived outcomes and long-term impacts among local stakeholders and explore potential causal pathways and working mechanisms.MethodsWe used ripple effects mapping (REM), a qualitative participatory method to map outcomes and identify causal pathways, in five communities. We involved 26 stakeholders, professionals and policy-makers affiliated with the local JOGG approach, spread over eight REM sessions and conducted individual interviews with 24 additional stakeholders. To uncover working mechanisms, we compared outcomes and causal pathways across communities.ResultsOver 5–9 years of implementation, participants perceived that JOGG had improved ownership of local stakeholders, health policies, intersectoral collaboration and social norms towards promoting healthy lifestyles. Causal pathways comprised small initial outcomes that created the preconditions to enable the achievement of long-term impact. Although exact JOGG actions varied widely between communities, we identified five common working mechanisms through which the JOGG approach contributed to causal pathways: (1) creating a positive connotation with JOGG, (2) mobilizing stakeholders to participate in the JOGG approach, (3) facilitating projects to promote knowledge and awareness among stakeholders while creating successful experiences with promoting healthy lifestyles, (4) connecting stakeholders, thereby stimulating intersectoral collaboration and (5) sharing stakeholder successes that promote healthy lifestyles, which gradually created a social norm of participation.ConclusionsThe JOGG approach seems to work through activating initial stakeholder participation and bolstering the process towards ownership, policy change, and intersectoral collaboration to promote healthy lifestyles. Key working mechanisms can inform further development of JOGG as well as other complex community-based prevention programmes.

Using technology to reduce learning costs and improve program comprehension: Lessons from a survey experiment on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

AbstractThe Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides food assistance to those in need, and while the program reaches many who are eligible, program participation falls short of reaching all who are eligible. One factor contributing to this gap in participation is difficulty understanding program eligibility, a common challenge with means‐tested benefit programs. Governments have attempted to improve public understanding of these complex programs using a range of tools to reduce learning costs, yet we know little about the extent to which these tools work and why. This preregistered survey experiment tests three commonly used methods of communicating SNAP program information, including a flyer, screening tool, and video. Cumulatively, our findings demonstrate that efforts to reduce SNAP learning costs are generally effective at improving comprehension recall and that the type of intervention matters, with the video increasing comprehension scores more than the flyer and screening tool. However, the impact of the intervention does not vary substantially according to household income.

AI chatbots in programming education: Students’ use in a scientific computing course and consequences for learning

Teaching and learning in higher education require adaptation following students' inevitable use of AI chatbots. This study contributes to the empirical literature on students' use of AI chatbots and how they influence learning. The aim of this study is to identify how to adapt programming education in higher engineering education. A mixed-methods case study was conducted of a scientific computing course in a Mechanical Engineering Master's program at a Eindhoven University of Technology in the Netherlands. Data consisted of 29 student questionnaires, a semi-structured group interview with three students, a semi-structured interview with the teacher, and 29 students' grades. Results show that students used ChatGPT for error checking and debugging of code, increasing conceptual understanding, generating, and optimizing solution code, explaining code, and solving mathematical problems. While students reported advantages of using ChatGPT, the teacher expressed concerns over declining code quality and student learning. Furthermore, both students and teacher perceived a negative influence from ChatGPT usage on pair programming, and consequently on student collaboration. The findings suggest that learning objectives should be formulated in more detail, to highlight essential programming skills, and be expanded to include the use of AI tools. Complex programming assignments remain appropriate in programming education, but pair programming as a didactic approach should be reconsidered in light of the growing use of AI Chatbots.