Family Of Complexes Research Articles

Exploring the Emotional Well-being and School Experiences of Pupils in Child-Headed Households in Selected Secondary Schools of Kabwe District in Zambia

This qualitative study explores the emotional well-being and school experiences of pupils residing in child-headed households in secondary schools in Kabwe district, Zambia. Adopting a phenomenological approach, the research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the challenges and resilience exhibited by this vulnerable demographic. Through focus group discussions with participants from diverse backgrounds, the study delves into the factors influencing emotional well-being, the impact on academic performance, perceptions of school-based support, and the day-to-day challenges faced by pupils. The findings underscore the intricate relationship between emotional well-being and the secondary school context, emphasizing the need for tailored interventions and enhanced support systems. Recommendations include research and knowledge sharing, policy advocacy and implementation, mental health and well-being initiatives, and enhancing school-based support services. By shedding light on the lived experiences of pupils in child-headed households, this research contributes to the discourse on inclusive education and advocates for holistic support systems that empower and uplift students facing complex family dynamics.

Social networks and social support: Parents experiences in the management of thalassemia, a complex lifelong inherited blood disorder, in the indigenous context – A qualitative study

BackgroundThalassemia is the most serious and rare genetic blood disorder and requires regular blood transfusions and lifelong medical care. Indigenous people living in low –and middle-income countries have limited opportunities and support to access and receive services. AimThe present study aimed to uncover the social networks of affected indigenous families and their role in the treatment and management of the disease from the perspective of the parents of affected children. Materials and methodsParticipants included parents of children who provide care and support for their children to receive regular treatment. This qualitative study used a phenomenological approach and collected data through in-depth face-to-face interviews to understand the parent's lived experiences in an indigenous context. Participants' demographic data and network members were collected, and the network map was depicted using NodeXL software. Thematic analysis was used to extract important themes from the data. Themes extracted during analysis indicated that families with homogenous extended families, neighbors, and relatives received tangible social support such as blood donation, caring for the affected, and regular hospital visits. ResultsFamilies with heterogeneous peer families, non-governmental organizations (NGO), religious organizations, and tertiary care professionals availed of Government schemes and services and achieved permanent bone marrow transplantation cures. ConclusionThese findings are significant for developing a context-specific strategy to provide genetic treatment and service delivery, which is crucial for managing hereditary diseases.

ETHICAL CONSIDERATIONS UNDERLYING ACP FOR ACCOMPANIED OLDER ADULTS WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT

Abstract While clinicians understand the importance of ACP, it is difficult to overcome logistical and ethical challenges in the limited time providers have in primary clinic appointments with older adults with ADRD and other complex co-morbidities. Ethical/moral dilemmas faced by patients, families, and clinicians are reflected in the four principles of biomedical ethics including autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, and justice. While ethical challenges are recognized there is a lack of real-world evidence to guide clinicians or family caregivers in ACP for older adults with ADRD based on the reality of complex patient and family dynamics. Throughout the SHARE trial, facilitated ACP conversations with trained ACP facilitators, older adult patients with cognitive impairment, and their family caregiver were audio recorded and transcribed. The purpose of this presentation is to expand our understanding of best practices for facilitating ACP conversations among persons with ADRD and their family caregivers, guided by medical ethics and the Learning Health Care System Ethics Framework. We draw on the unique dataset of recorded ACP conversations involving older adults with severe cognitive impairment (N=92, average age=88 years), family caregivers, and trained ACP facilitators. We qualitatively coded transcripts for ethical considerations of ACP conversations and conducted the thematic analysis. We will present major themes related to ethical considerations in facilitating ACP conversations among persons with moderate to severe ADRD and their family caregivers. We will provide a discussion framed in balancing patient, family, and provider needs within a Learning Health Care System.

Reasons and Patterns of Self-Poisoning Among Adult Females in Bangladesh

Background: Suicide is a prevalent cause of unnatural death in Bangladesh and a long-standing social concern. Self-poisoning is a frequently observed method of suicide in this area. Domestic abuse, stalking, eve-teasing, physical and sexual assault, demands for dowry, failure in exams, and romantic disappointments were prominent reasons for suicide among Bangladeshi females. Aim of the Study: The purpose of the study was to assess the reasons and patterns of self-poisoning among adult females in Bangladesh. Method: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from January 2016 to June 2016 at the Department of Medicine, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh. This study relied on 100 adult female self-poisoning patients as study participants. MS Excel and the SPSS version 23.0 application were used to handle the research. Result: The participants' average age was 28.19±9.84 years. Most were from rural areas (62%), 75% were Muslims, 55% were from joint families, and the role of 'housewife' (30%) was the most common job. Family disharmony was the reported reason for self-poisoning in more than one-third (35%) of our participants, while romantic disappointment accounted for 27% of the cases, both notable ratios. Additionally, 8% cited education-related issues, 12% mentioned misunderstandings with parents, 9% attributed self-poisoning to poverty, 5% to chronic illness, and 4% to various other reasons. Conclusion: Among adult females in Bangladesh, family disharmony and romantic disappointment are the most common reasons for self-poisoning. Additionally, education-related issues, misunderstandings with parents, poverty, and chronic illness are also cited as contributing factors for incidents of self-poisoning.

Understanding leader–member exchange on job satisfaction: while work interfaces between home and life?

PurposeThis study is aimed at decoding the impact of supportive leadership behavior (leader–member exchange [LMX]) on job satisfaction (JS) through the mediating role of the work–nonwork interface (work-to-nonwork conflict [WNC] and work-to-nonwork enrichment [WNE]), within the work-from-home context in India.Design/methodology/approach Multiphased data collected from 232 full-time working Indian dual-working parents (with one or more children) were analyzed using structural equation modeling.FindingsOverall, the hypothesized model receives empirical support from the data. LMX positively influenced WNE and simultaneously negatively influenced WNC. WNE, in turn, positively impacted JS, and WNC negatively influenced JS. Results supported only the mediating role of WNE between LMX and JS but not WNC. Women reported greater JS than men, and respondents staying in a joint family reported decreased WNC.Research limitations/implications The current study takes a multiphased, multidomain approach to understand the underlying mechanisms of leadership’s impact while working from home.Practical implications By adopting a tailored approach, organizations can ensure better alignment between employee goals and the desired outcomes of the organization. This entails considering extended family requirements and designing HR interventions and strategies that accommodate the specific challenges faced by dual-working parents.Originality/value This study helps to shed light on the sparsely researched arena of the role of leadership in the work-from-home context, more so for Indian dual-working households. Hence, it makes significant contributions to theory and practice.

Effect of COVID-19 lockdown on health of women in Pakistan - Socioeconomic perspective.

This study investigates the dimensions of women's experiences during the COVID-19 lockdown in Pakistan, considering their historical vulnerability to natural disasters. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Pakistan from May to September 2020 at Services institute of medical Sciences, Lahore. An online survey collected socio-demographic data, household responsibilities, and access to medical services using a self-designed questionnaire. Women aged 18 years and above (n=1307) were included through convenience sampling. Data analysis utilized SPSS 20.0. Of the surveyed women, 10 (14.9%) experienced improved health outcomes, while 39 (58.27%) faced poor health outcomes. Proper access to medical services was reported by 29 (43.3%) participants, while 38 (57.1%) had no access. Two women (3.0%) conceived during the lockdown. 45 (67.2%) women lived in nuclear families, and 21 (31.3%) in joint family systems. Additionally, 46 (68.7%) women were significantly burdened with household chores, while 21 (31.3%) had a normal routine. Among COVID-19-positive respondents, 70% reported weight gain from increased screen time and sedentary lifestyle. Difficulties in managing children's online classes were reported by 34.6% of participants. Moreover, 84% had a monthly income below one hundred thousand PKR. Among women aged 23-28 years, 30.9% had adverse effect on their husband's income, and 4.7% experienced unemployment. Unfortunately, 16% of respondents lost a relative due to COVID-19. Even with access to health facilities. The COVID-19 lockdown in Pakistan led to adverse socioeconomic and health outcomes for women. These findings highlight the measures needed to address women's challenges amid pandemic impact.

Assessment of Farmers’ Knowledge on Integrated Farming System (IFS)

Majority of Indian farmers are either small or marginal. With the increase in population, the per capita availability of land is decreasing. Increasing population and decline in per capita availability of land in the country raises the issue of food security. Realizing the benefit of Integrated Farming System (IFS), in terms of food security, environmental sustainability the farmers are to be encouraged to go for adopting the IFS in their own. The present study was conducted to assess the knowledge of the respondents on IFS and explore the association between respondents’ knowledge and certain independent variables. Hence, three objectives was identified by the researcher for the following research and they are: To study the background information of the respondents. To assess the knowledge of the respondents on Integrated Farming System (IFS). To find out the association between respondents’ knowledge and independent variables. The present study, was conducted in Jorhat district of Assam. A total of 180 respondents were selected from three development Blocks of Jorhat district. The study revealed that 37.22% of the total respondents belonged to the age group 36-46 years and 43.33% attained education upto high school level. A large majority i.e., 90 per cent of the total respondents were married. The study depicted that 37.78% belonged to Other Backward Classes. Around 50.00 per cent of the respondents were from joint family system. Nearly 70 per cent of the total respondents stayed in semi pucca houses. Majority of the total respondents i.e., 85 per cent were in the range of Rs (50,000-1,00,000) in terms of their annual income. A higher percentage of the total respondents (95.00%) practice farming as their occupation for livelihood. A large majority (95.00%) of the respondents were marginal farmer. None of the respondents cultivate through IFS. In all three assessed blocks 98.89 % of respondents did not receive any trainings on IFS. All the respondents (100.00%) were interested in receiving trainings on Integrated Farming System. Knowledge of the respondents was significantly associated with educational qualifications of the respondents.

Changing Dynamic of Marriage and Family Urban in India: A Sociological Perspective in Dharwad District

Introduction: Introduce of this article paper on family and marriage in India also serve an effective function. Members provide love, affection and emotional support to each other. The family environment is one of bonding, intimacy and mutual trust. This provides happiness and mental peace to family members. Review of literature: According to Yogendra Singh argued that changes in "family and marriage in India" are taking place at different speeds in rural and urban areas. Urban families have progressed faster towards nuclearization, while rural families still retain more aspects of the joint family structure. Objectives of study: The Main purpose of this article is changing dynamic of marriage and family Urban in India is a sociological perspective in Dharwad district. Research methods: This article paper completed with the research methodology is the description, explanation and justification of various methods of conducting research. Area of Study: The present study is a changing dynamic of marriage and family Urban in India is a sociological perspective in Dharwad district. Universe and Sample: total numbers of women’s sample during 2022-23 in Dharwad district of Karnataka is 1385, out of women respondents select 140 respondents only. Tools and Techniques of Data Collection: Both primary and secondary sources of data collection were used in the present study. The primary source consisted of interview schedule from the women’s in Dharwad district. Secondary data were books, magazines, journals, newspapers, census reports and records of other concerned offices etc. Data Analysis: This article studies two types of data analysis on various aspects of Demographical respondents and changing dynamic of marriage and family Urban in India is a sociological perspective in Dharwad district. Conclusion: This article paper concludes on provide valuable insights into understanding the Indian family system in its complex socio-cultural context. Keywords: Changing Dynamic, Marriage and Family, Urban in India, Sociological Perspective

Family System and Gender as Predictors of Religious Coping in Pakistani Patients with Hepatitis C.

Pakistan has the second-largest number of HCV infections in the world with homogeneity across provinces and no evidence of decline over the past 30years (Mahmud et al. in BMC Infect Dis 19(1):1-11, 2019). Currently, one in every 20 Pakistanis is suffering from HCV (Haqqi et al. in Viral Immunol 32(9):402-413, 2019). The disease significantly interferes with the everyday life of the patient (Silberbogen et al. in Psychosomatics 50(2):114-122, 2009;Foster in Viral Hepat 16(9):605-611, 2009).The present research aimed to find the role of gender, family system, and social support in predicting coping in patients with hepatitis C (HCV). A sample of 100 HCV patients was taken using purposive sampling from different public and private hospitals in Lahore, Pakistan. For assessment, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support and Brief Cope Inventory were used. Results showed that male hepatitis C patients used a higher level of religious coping. Hepatitis C patients living in a joint family system used a higher level of religious coping. It also showed that there was no significant relationship between social support and coping. Patients suffering from hepatitis C for 2years or more adopted avoidant coping strategies as compared to the patients diagnosed for 1year or more. This research has important implications for psychologists, paramedical staff, doctors, social workers, caregivers, peers, and families of patients suffering from HCV. It would help in formulating effective therapeutic interventions. It would also add to the literature in the field of health psychology.

Prevalence of pre-operative anxiety and associated risk factors among patients awaiting elective surgery in a tertiary care hospital.

Patients undergoing surgery have a fear of anesthesia and surgical procedures that results in anxiety. The global incidence of pre-operative anxiety is estimated at 60-92%. Age, gender, education, marital status, type of family, type of anesthesia and surgery, and history of surgery are the contributing factors. High levels of anxiety during the pre-operative period has negative impacts on surgical outcomes. The main objective of this study was to find out the prevalence of pre-operative anxiety and associated risk factors in a hospital setting of a developing country. This was a single center, analytical, cross-sectional study conducted among the admitted patients scheduled for elective surgeries in a tertiary care hospital. Non-probability convenience sampling was adopted and a total of 205 cases were included. The researchers themselves collected the data on the day before surgery using questionnaires comprised of two parts: semi-structured questionnaires prepared via literature review and Amsterdam Pre-operative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS). Data were analyzed in SPSS version 23. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were performed appropriately. The prevalence of pre-operative anxiety was 25.85%. The median anaesthesia related, surgery related, and total anxiety scores were 4.00, 5.00 and 9.00 respectively. Likewise, the median score of information desired component scale was 5.00. Different anxiety scores were positively correlated with the information desire component score. The patients living in a nuclear family (adjusted OR, 2.480; 95% CI, 1.272-4.837, p = 0.008) and those without past history of surgery (adjusted OR, 2.451; 95% CI, 1.107-5.424, p = 0.027) had approximately 2.5 times higher risk of having pre-operative anxiety compared to those from a joint family and those having past history of surgery respectively. Those receiving spinal anesthesia had approximately two times lower risk of anxiety (adjusted OR, 0.511; 95% CI, 0.265-0.985, p = 0.045). One fourth of the patients had pre-operative anxiety. Type of family, type of anesthesia and past history of surgery were found to be the independent predictors of anxiety.

Cardiac PET Imaging of ATP Binding Cassette (ABC) Transporters: Opportunities and Challenges.

Adenosine triphosphate binding cassette (ABC) transporters are a broad family of membrane protein complexes that use energy to transport molecules across cells and/or intracellular organelle lipid membranes. Many drugs used to treat cardiac diseases have an affinity for these transporters. Among others, P-glycoprotein (P-gp) plays an essential role in regulating drug concentrations that reach cardiac tissue and therefore contribute to cardiotoxicity. As a molecular imaging modality, positron emission tomography (PET) has emerged as a viable technique to investigate the function of P-gp in organs and tissues. Using PET imaging to evaluate cardiac P-gp function provides new insights for drug development and improves the precise use of medications. Nevertheless, information in this field is limited. In this review, we aim to examine the current applications of ABC transporter PET imaging and its tracers in the heart, with a specific emphasis on P-gp. Furthermore, the opportunities and challenges in this novel field will be discussed.

Social Adjustment Patterns of Tribal Students: Exploring Family Dynamics

This research delves into the intricate aspects of social adjustment among Scheduled Tribe students within the secondary school environment. The study explored the influences of family related factors (family dynamics) such as gender, family type, number of siblings, father’s education and occupation, and familial monthly income on the social adjustment abilities of these students. Based on a cross-sectional survey conducted on randomly selected 310 bengali medium secondary school students from three subdivisions of Purba Medinipur District in West Bengal, the study revealed compelling insights. Bengali translated version of the Bell’s Adjustment Inventory (Social Adjustment Subscale) was used as research instrument. Data were analysed through independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA. The gender-based analysis highlights that female (Mean=7.64) students within the Scheduled Tribe community face more significant adjustment challenges and exhibit lower social adjustment compared to their male counterpart (Mean=6.20) (P=.000). The influence of family type is also substantial, with students from nuclear families (Mean=7.22) encountering higher adjustment difficulties and more downward social adjustment than those from joint families (Mean=5.86) (P=.000). The examination of family size indicated that students with two siblings (in comparison to students who are single child, having one sibling and having three or more siblings) experience heightened adjustment difficulties and lower social adjustment (P=.025). Furthermore, the study underscored the role of socio-economic factors, revealing significant relationships between the father’s occupation (P=.04) and educational qualifications (P=.05) with students’ social adjustment abilities. While overall differences in familial monthly income did not prove statistically significant (P=.134), selected pairwise comparisons were also showed variations. Collectively, these findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the factors shaping social adjustment among Scheduled Tribe students. The implications extend to the development of tailored interventions and support systems that address the unique needs of these students within the educational context.

Luminescence labeled surfaces mapping system dedicated for use in quality control of 3D prints produced by stereolithography 3D printing (SLA) and laser engraving

Compounds from the lanthanide complex family have been proposed as molecular luminescent sensors for marking and measuring objects. To select the sensor with optimal performance parameters, several series of Eu (III) complexes with diketone ligands were tested. This part of the work focuses primarily on examining the absorption and emission characteristics of the analyzed sensors in the UV-Vis range. Furthermore, the photostability of these sensors was tested during exposure to ultraviolet light. Based on the spectroscopic analysis, a compound showing high photostability, strong luminescence, and a wide absorption spectrum, reaching almost the range of visible light, was selected for marking 3D prints. Analysis of the obtained results of mapping the surface of luminescence-marked 3D inscriptions showed a strong impact of engraving parameters, such as laser power, laser beam collimator setting, space between symbols, and distance of the laser head from the print surface, on the quality of the obtained prints. The constructed measuring system allows accurate mapping of the surface of luminescence-labeled objects, particularly accurate mapping of the sample thickness in the direction normal to the camera lens, with micrometric resolution. One potential application of this apparatus is the quality control of prints produced using 3D printers based on photocurable resins or laser engraving. It is characterized by simple construction, low equipment cost, and short measurement time. Using an appropriate luminescent sensor to mark the tested objects, it is also possible to map the distribution of parameters such as temperature, pH, micro-viscosity, polarity, and oxygen concentration on its surface.

Patterns and Correlates of Living Arrangement Among the Elderly Population in India

There have been debates about the actual prevalence of joint families in India and the changes in family structure. The popular notion also seems to be that the joint family system is on the decline, and increasingly families are becoming nuclear. This article investigates the living arrangement patterns of the older population and their association with different household background characteristics. We analyse data from the 71st round of the National Sample Survey, which provides a detailed understanding of the living arrangements among the elderly. It reinforces the conventional perception that co-residing with children is still the most preferred option, with about 75% of elderly parents of either sex opting for the same arrangement in the household. In terms of socio-economic and demographic characteristics, the ‘oldest-old’ categories of the elderly were most likely to prefer staying at home with their children. It was found that 80% of the elderly who were physically disabled or confined stayed with their children because they needed support physically. The major reason why the elderly prefer to live with their children was to receive economic support, with over 50% of the elderly across the nation were found to be fully financially dependent. Further, older women were more likely to desire co-residence as a means of receiving financial support since more than 70% of them were dependent monetarily.

Abstract C013: Clinical biomarkers based on PK/PD modeling to guide the development for a first-in-class, highly selective SMARCA2 (BRM) degrader, PRT3789

Abstract Background: The SWI/SNF family of chromatin-remodeling complexes is frequently dysregulated in multiple tumor types, resulting in aberrant expression of genes. Damaging mutations resulting in loss of function of one of its core catalytic subunits SMARCA4 (BRG1) occur in multiple tumor types, including in 5-10% of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). SMARCA4-deleted cells become highly dependent on the other catalytic subunit, SMARCA2 (BRM), for their survival, therefore selective degradation of SMARCA2 has therapeutic potential in these cancer types. PRT3789 is a first-in-class, potent and selective SMARCA2 degrader that is currently under evaluation in a Phase 1 study in patients with advanced solid tumors with loss of SMARCA4 (NCT05639751). We deeply characterized the degradation kinetic parameters of PRT3789 based on preclinical PK/PD studies, which enabled dose-selection. Based on this modeling, we developed a suite of biomarker assays that can be used to assess target engagement in this Phase 1 study. Methods: A sensitive and quantitative plate-based immunoassay utilizing the MSD® platform was developed for the measurement of SMARCA2 protein in human PBMCs following treatment with PRT3789. A secondary, qPCR-based assay was developed for assessment of SMARCA2 transcriptional targets in peripheral blood that may be associated with response to SMARCA2 degradation by PRT3789. Additionally, an immunohistochemistry (IHC) assay for the assessment of SMARCA2 and SMARCA4 protein expression in tumor tissue was developed on the Leica BOND III platform using commercially available antibodies. Results: Detailed in vitro enzymology characterized the degradation kinetic parameters of PRT3789 and was successfully used to predict the PRT3789 effects observed in PK/PD and xenograft efficacy studies in mice. The MSD® assay demonstrated a wide dynamic range of detection for SMARCA2 with a lower level of quantification of 23 pg/mL, as well as exhibiting acceptable spike recovery and minimal cross-reactivity to SMARCA4. Based on the qPCR assay, we developed a differential gene expression (DGE) score based on expression of an 8-gene panel that correlates with SMARCA2 protein degradation in PBMCs. The IHC assay demonstrated discrete and robust nuclear tumor staining with a dynamic intensity range and limited cytoplasmic background for both SMARCA2 and SMARCA4. A panel of NSCLC tumor samples with known SMARCA4 mutations were further evaluated in this assay. Loss of SMARCA4 protein expression in tumor cells by IHC was associated with nonsense and frameshift mutations in the SMARCA4 gene. Conclusions: We demonstrate the sensitive assessment of SMARAC2 protein degradation and effects on downstream gene expression in PBMCs, which will be used to assess target engagement following treatment with PRT3789 in a Phase 1 clinical study. Citation Format: Min Wang, Andrew Moore, Alexander Grego, Miles Cowart, Joseph Rager, Gina Paris, Koichi Ito, Naveen Babbar, Sandy Geeganage, Peegy Scherle, Neha Bhagwat. Clinical biomarkers based on PK/PD modeling to guide the development for a first-in-class, highly selective SMARCA2 (BRM) degrader, PRT3789 [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC Virtual International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2023 Oct 11-15; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2023;22(12 Suppl):Abstract nr C013.

Abstract C016: Evaluating clinical biomarkers of FHD-286, a potent and selective inhibitor of BRG1/BRM, in metastatic uveal melanoma

Abstract The BRG/Brahma-associated factors (BAF) family of chromatin remodeling complexes (also referred to as the mSWI/SNF complex) regulates chromatin accessibility and gene expression through its ATP-dependent remodeling activity. FHD-286, a first-in-class compound that potently and selectively inhibits the ATPase components of the BAF complex, BRG1 and BRM, was evaluated in a Phase I dose escalation in subjects with metastatic uveal melanoma (mUM) (FHD-286-001). The pharmacodynamics of FHD-286 were assessed to demonstrate proof-of-mechanism and understand the downstream molecular and clinical impact of BRG1/BRM inhibition. In addition, circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) was evaluated as an early predictor of overall survival benefit. Seventy-three subjects were on a daily dosing regimen ranging from 2.5 to 10 mg or an intermittent regimen of 1-week on/1-week-off ranging from 10 to 22.5 mg. Tumor biopsies were collected at screening and either Cycle 3, or end of treatment. Biomarker changes in the tumor were observed by histological assessment, by IHC/IF biomarker assays, and RNA sequencing. Observations were suggestive of a differentiation effect by FHD-286 on the tumor cells, including a decrease in stemness genes and an increase in mature melanocytic markers. Evidence of necrosis and a trend of decreasing tumor cell density were also seen. In addition, ctDNA was measured in serial plasma samples using a targeted NGS panel. A reduction in ctDNA was shown in approximately 50% of subjects, which correlated with an increased overall survival benefit. Lastly, serial blood samples collected in Paxgene RNA tubes were analyzed by RNA sequencing. A robust dose-dependent gene signature was identified as a peripheral readout of target engagement at steady-state in both dosing regimens and across dose cohorts. In summary, we observed changes in the tumor cells at the biopsy site and ctDNA that suggest FHD-286 has a biological impact on uveal melanoma that may lead to clinical benefit. Given the limitations and challenges to obtain tumor biopsies from every subject and at a frequent rate, the identified PD gene signature in the blood is a valuable tool to measure target engagement in this study, and other potential solid tumor indications. Citation Format: Jessica Wan, Kim Horrigan, GiNell Elliott, Liv Johannessen, Mike Collins, Alexander J. Lazar, Dillon Corrigan, Caitlin Patriquin, Sam Agresta, Jessica Piel, Martin Hentemann. Evaluating clinical biomarkers of FHD-286, a potent and selective inhibitor of BRG1/BRM, in metastatic uveal melanoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR-NCI-EORTC Virtual International Conference on Molecular Targets and Cancer Therapeutics; 2023 Oct 11-15; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Mol Cancer Ther 2023;22(12 Suppl):Abstract nr C016.

Plasmodium Falciparum Rifins: Role in malaria pathogenesis

Malaria kills an estimated 600,000 people each year, especially children under five years who reside in sub-Saharan Africa. Malaria fatalities are associated with severe forms such as cerebral malaria, acute respiratory failure, severe anaemia, renal failure, hypoglycaemia, and pulmonary oedema. Although the underlying pathogenic mechanisms in immune responses and parasite immune evasion, cytoadherence of parasitized red blood cells, and rosetting are enumerated, the mechanisms are not fully understood. P. falciparum parasite-derived surface protein, repetitive interspersed family (RIFIN) genes are involved in rosetting, blocking microcirculation, and playing a role in malaria pathogenesis; it is unclear which RIFIN family genes are involved in the various pathogenic mechanisms in malaria. RIFINs are the extensive malaria family genes expressed throughout the malaria parasite stages, indicating their diverse roles. Malaria pathogenesis occurs in erythrocyte-stage infection, and the expression of RIFINs at this phase could play a diverse role in the various pathogenic mechanisms. They are involved in major phenomena such as cytoadherence, merozoite evasion, and immune evasion. RIFINs aid in the immune evasion of P. falciparum through various molecular interactions by binding to the inhibitory receptors LAIR1, LILRB1, and LILRB2. RIFINs in severe forms of malaria (such as cerebral malaria and severe anaemia) require a considerable understanding to target and control malaria severity and mortality. RIFINs are implicated in severe malaria and are discussed together with other variant surface antigens such as STEVORS or PfEMP1 in the specific pathophysiology of malaria. This review details the role of RIFINs in the various malaria pathophysiological mechanisms underlying severe malaria and mortality

Molluscan Genomes Reveal Extensive Differences in Photopigment Evolution Across the Phylum.

In animals, opsins and cryptochromes are major protein families that transduce light signals when bound to light-absorbing chromophores. Opsins are involved in various light-dependent processes, like vision, and have been co-opted for light-independent sensory modalities. Cryptochromes are important photoreceptors in animals, generally regulating circadian rhythm, they belong to a larger protein family with photolyases, which repair UV-induced DNA damage. Mollusks are great animals to explore questions about light sensing as eyes have evolved multiple times across, and within, taxonomic classes. We used molluscan genome assemblies from 80 species to predict protein sequences and examine gene family evolution using phylogenetic approaches. We found extensive opsin family expansion and contraction, particularly in bivalve xenopsins and gastropod Go-opsins, while other opsins, like retinochrome, rarely duplicate. Bivalve and gastropod lineages exhibit fluctuations in opsin repertoire, with cephalopods having the fewest number of opsins and loss of at least 2 major opsin types. Interestingly, opsin expansions are not limited to eyed species, and the highest opsin content was seen in eyeless bivalves. The dynamic nature of opsin evolution is quite contrary to the general lack of diversification in mollusk cryptochromes, though some taxa, including cephalopods and terrestrial gastropods, have reduced repertoires of both protein families. We also found complete loss of opsins and cryptochromes in multiple, but not all, deep-sea species. These results help set the stage for connecting genomic changes, including opsin family expansion and contraction, with differences in environmental, and biological features across Mollusca.

Abstract A067: Perceptions and experiences of Black women on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer genetic testing

Abstract Black women experience significant disparities in morbidity and mortality related to hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC). Early identification of women with HBOC is essential for proactive screening and timely diagnosis but evidence suggests that Black women receive genetic testing for HBOC at lower rates than their White counterparts. To understand Black women’s perspectives on HBOC genetic testing and potential factors influencing this decision, we conducted in-depth qualitative interviews with 107 Black women with a personal or family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Participants were recruited via the networks of patient support organizations and sororities as well as at a family medicine safety net clinic in Jacksonville, FL. Participants frequently expressed a lack of awareness about their family cancer history; many cancer patients stated that they only became aware of extensive family history upon their own diagnosis. Lack of family history sharing was attributed to a culture of silence around medical issues and a desire to protect family members from difficult information. However, most participants indicated a strong desire to understand their own risk of HBOC and were interested in genetic testing. Participants with a personal diagnosis were motivated to undergo HBOC genetic testing to reduce the risk for future generations. Clinical experiences with the offer of HBOC genetic testing were variable, with a few expressing that they had to make repeated inquiries from a provider to understand the relevance of the test to their own health. These findings suggest that investigation into alternative clinical modalities to collect family health history may be beneficial to identify Black women who meet NCCN Guidelines for HBOC testing. In contrast to the literature suggesting hesitancy for HBOC genetic testing, many participants perceived genetic results as having a positive impact for their medical decision-making and family's health. The development of patient materials and provider education on cultural and social factors that influence the uptake of HBOC genetic testing is also needed. Citation Format: Kirsten A. Riggan, Michele Halyard, Sarah E. James, Marion Kelly, Daphne Phillips, Megan A. Allyse. Perceptions and experiences of Black women on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer genetic testing [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 16th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2023 Sep 29-Oct 2;Orlando, FL. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2023;32(12 Suppl):Abstract nr A067.

A heavy weight, yet empowering: Grandparent Special Guardians’ lived experiences of the role and family dynamics - An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA)

Almost half of Special Guardians are grandparents, typically single grandmothers, who are required to facilitate and maintain relationships between parents and children if deemed in the child’s best interests. Current literature suggests that Special Guardians navigate complex family situations, support children with developmental trauma histories and receive scant support. Only limited research has examined the lived experiences of Special Guardians, especially using qualitative methods. Further exploration into such experiences may allow for better understanding and more specialised support for Special Guardians and the children they care for. The current research involved semi-structured interviews with six grandparent Special Guardians. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) five themes were constructed that highlighted some of the social, emotional, relational and financial difficulties they experienced from taking on the role. Compared to foster or adoptive carers, Special Guardians felt undervalued and abandoned by services. After a Special Guardianship Order (SGO) has been awarded, to encourage positive relationships Special Guardians may benefit from trauma training, peer and therapeutic support, as well as more whole family support.