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Evaluating The Carbon Sequestration Potential of Young Urban Trees in Toronto, Canada.
No full textPlanting and conserving urban trees are essential for mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. While Toronto aims to expand its urban forest for climate resilience, most research has focused on mature trees, leaving a gap in understanding the carbon sequestration of young trees as they mature. This knowledge is essential for planning effective urban tree planting programs, as these young trees will be key to future carbon storage. The research was conducted in collaboration with the City of Toronto's Urban Forestry Department and the University of Toronto's Institute of Forestry to evaluate the carbon sequestration levels of 48 tree species planted in Toronto. This included streets (and residential areas) and parks to estimate how much carbon is sequestered in 10 and 20 years. A stratified random sampling was used to select trees planted in Toronto's streets and parks in 2022 and 2023, focusing on species with populations between 100 and 5,000 individuals. Tree data from the City of Toronto was imported into ArcGIS, where spatial analysis identified each tree's location, soil type (sandy or clay), and proximity to high-traffic roads. This setup enabled targeted field monitoring and ensured diverse urban conditions were represented. Field data collection took place from June 3rd to August 31st, 2024, covering 1,715 trees, of which 583 were park trees and 1,132 were street trees. At each site, we documented species, tree height, canopy base height, and caliper diameter for growth assessments. Canopy density was measured from four directions (N, S, E, W) to evaluate shading capabilities and tree health, with additional notes on stress indicators like damaged branches or crown dieback to understand the adaptation of young urban trees to Toronto's environment. Data was analyzed using the EPA guidelines for urban and suburban settings.
The study showed that trees planted in 2022 are currently sequestering a total of 921.60 kg (streets) and 218.63 kg (parks) of carbon annually. By 2032 (10 years), these trees are projected to sequester 2,987.05 kg (streets) and 744.91 kg (parks) of carbon annually, with further growth leading to potential sequestration of 6,244.08 kg (streets) and 1,575.05 kg (parks) of carbon annually by 2042 (20 years). Furthermore, the trees planted in 2023 are currently sequestering a total of 478.59 kg (streets) and 403.27 kg (parks) of carbon annually. By 2033 (10 years), these trees are projected to sequester 2,133.47 kg (streets) and 1,808.05 kg (parks) of carbon annually, with further growth leading to potential sequestration of 4,669.60 kg (streets) and 3,811.86 kg (parks) of carbon annually by 2043 (20 years). This study recommends prioritizing fast-growing species for immediate carbon sequestration while incorporating slow-growing species for long-term benefits. Strategic planting should focus on street locations to enhance carbon capture. Regularly collecting data to monitor the CSP of the species in every five years may be essential for assessing tree health and carbon storage, alongside improved maintenance practices to optimize growth
Evaluating the Management of Benzodiazepine Withdrawal for CAMH Patients Using Contaminated Fentanyl and Prescribed Antiepileptic Drugs: A Retrospective Chart Review
No full textPharmacy residents have the opportunity to complete a research project during their residency training, which provides them with skills on how to conduct and manage a research project. Projects often represent an area of interest and need that has been recognized by the host institution’s pharmacy department. Projects are presented as a poster at an annual CSHP Ontario Branch Residency Research Night, and many eventually go on to be published in a peer-reviewed journal.Introduction: Benzodiazepines are known contaminants in Toronto’s unregulated fentanyl supply. Regular use of fentanyl may therefore lead to physical dependence on benzodiazepines. When fentanyl is abruptly stopped, individuals are at risk of experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal, including the risk of withdrawal seizures. No guidance is available regarding the management of potential benzodiazepine withdrawal among individuals using fentanyl. Antiepileptic drugs (AED), namely divalproex and levetiracetam, alongside benzodiazepines are used at CAMH’s Medical Withdrawal Service (MWS) to manage this risk.
Primary Objectives:
1. To determine patient characteristics and urine drug screen (UDS) results among individuals reporting fentanyl use and prescribed AEDs.
2. To describe the prescribing practices, responses and adverse effects of AEDs and benzodiazepines for benzodiazepine withdrawal management.
3. To describe patient characteristics and benzodiazepines protocols among individuals reporting fentanyl use and not prescribed AEDs.
Secondary Objectives:
1. To identify associations between AED prescribing and patient demographics, substance use history and benzodiazepine protocols
Methods: A retrospective chart review was completed for MWS patients reporting regular fentanyl use and prescribed divalproex or levetiracetam from January to December 2023. Outcomes collected include demographics, substance use history, UDS results, benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms, adverse effects and dosing protocols for AEDs and benzodiazepines. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data.
Results: Among individuals prescribed AEDs, fifty-two patients were included: 19 female patients prescribed levetiracetam and 33 male patients prescribed divalproex. Fourteen patients (27%) had a prior seizure history secondary to substance use and withdrawal. Benzodiazepines were found in 77% (40/52) of immunoassay UDS results compared to 56% (29/52) of mass spectrometry UDS. All AEDs were ordered before UDS results were known. During admission, AEDs were typically prescribed at therapeutic doses for an average of 9 days. Thirty-six patients (69%) were prescribed AEDs on discharge with a taper to discontinue. Forty-eight patients (92%) were co-prescribed benzodiazepines alongside AEDs. Benzodiazepine protocols varied widely. Specific benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms were documented in 50% of charts (26/52), with no seizures reported. Four patients were included in the analysis among individuals not prescribed AEDs, all of whom also reported no seizures during admission despite similar fentanyl use histories to those prescribed AEDs. Only one patient had a documented rationale for not prescribing an AED, owing to patient refusal. Secondary objectives were not completed due to the small sample size of individuals not prescribed AEDs.
Conclusions: Benzodiazepine contaminants are prevalent among people using fentanyl and therefore these patients may be susceptible to benzodiazepine withdrawal symptoms. Establishing the need for AEDs to mitigate seizure risk due to unknown benzodiazepine exposures in people using unregulated fentanyl remains a challenge. Further research is required to evaluate the necessity, timing and safety of benzodiazepine withdrawal pharmacotherapy in these patients
Impact of single and combined soil amendments on the growth and foliar nutrients of white spruce (Picea glauca) on a poorly regenerated logged site.
Full text linkRegeneration failure is occasionally encountered in the boreal mixed forest following clear-cutting, primarily due to competing vegetation and altered soil conditions. This study investigates the effects of applying several soil amendments to improve white spruce plantation growth on poorly regenerated forest sites. Biochar (2.6 Mg ha-1), wood ash (7 Mg ha-1), and manure (105 Mg ha-1) were used alone or in combination, with effects on foliar elements and seedling growth assessed after two growing seasons. While biochar and wood ash have been frequently used, combining them with manure has been limited in boreal forests. Using a randomized complete block design, we measured soil pH, incident light, seedling growth, specific leaf area, and foliar nutrition. Manure significantly increased seedling growth (+37%) compared to treatments without it. It also increased foliar nitrogen (+17%) and phosphorus (+14%). Wood ash increased foliar nitrogen (+7%), phosphorus (+15%), potassium (+19%) and calcium (+29%). Biochar, without wood ash, decreased foliar aluminum by 56%. We conclude that manure represented an important nitrogen and phosphorus source for seedling growth. This research highlights the potential of amendment combinations for improving growth and foliar nutrition of seedlings in poorly regenerated boreal forest ecosystems, for example where herbicide use is prohibited.The presentation of the authors' names and (or) special characters in the title of the pdf file of the accepted manuscript may differ slightly from what is displayed on the item page. The information in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript reflects the original submission by the author
Comprehensive Comparison and Validation of Forest Disturbance Monitoring Algorithms Based on Landsat Time Series in China
Full text linkAccurate long-term and high-resolution forest disturbance monitoring are pivotal for forest carbon modeling and forest management. Many algorithms have been developed for this purpose based on the Landsat time series, but their nationwide performance across different regions and disturbance types remains unexplored. Here, we conducted a comprehensive comparison and validation of six widely used forest disturbance- monitoring algorithms using 12,328 reference samples in China. The algorithms included three annual-scale (VCT, LandTrendr, mLandTrendr) and three daily-scale (BFAST, CCDC, COLD) algorithms. Results indicated that COLD achieved the highest accuracy, with F1 and F2 scores of 81.81% and 81.25%, respectively. Among annual-scale algorithms, mLandTrendr exhibited the best performance, with F1 and F2 scores of 73.04% and 72.71%, and even outperformed the daily-scale BFAST algorithm. Across China’s six regions, COLD consistently achieved the highest F1 and F2 scores, showcasing its robustness and adaptability. However, regional variations in accuracy were observed, with the northern region exhibiting the highest accuracy and the southwestern region the lowest. When considering different forest disturbance types, COLD achieved the highest accuracies for Fire, Harvest, and Other disturbances, while CCDC was most accurate for Forestation. These findings highlight the necessity of region-specific calibration and parameter optimization tailored to specific disturbance types to improve forest disturbance monitoring accuracy, and also provide a solid foundation for future studies on algorithm modifications and ensembles
Validation of an Automated High-Throughput Multiplex Real-Time PCR Assay for Detection of Enteric Protozoa
Full text linkBackground: Microscopy is the conventional method for the identification of gastrointestinal parasitic pathogens in fecal specimens; however, it presents numerous challenges, including high technical expertise burden, multiple staining procedures, and prolonged turnaround time. Molecular methods provide higher throughput and potentially higher sensitivity and specificity. Methods: We validated a commercial, automated DNA extraction platform and multiplex parasitic real-time PCR panel (Seegene AllplexTM GI-Parasite Assay) detecting six protozoal pathogens: Blastocystis hominis (Bh), Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis (Cc), Dientamoeba fragilis (Df), Entamoeba histolytica (Eh), and Giardia lamblia (Gl) in unpreserved fecal specimens submitted for diagnostic parasitology. Microscopy was the reference standard for all organisms, with stool ELISA as an additional reference assay for Eh. Results: Among 461 unpreserved fecal specimens, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive and negative predictive values of the enteric multiplex for fresh specimens were as follows: 93%, 98.3%, 85.1%, 99.3% for Bh; 100% for all measures in Cryptosporidium and Cc; 100%, 99.3%, 88.5%, 100% for Df; 33.3%, 100%, 100%, 99.6% for Eh; and 100%, 98.9%, 68.8%, 100% for Gl, respectively. With the addition of 17 frozen specimens, the sensitivity for Eh increased to 75%. On a per-batch basis, the molecular platform reduced pre-analytical and analytical testing turnaround time by 7 h. Conclusions: The enteric multiplex platform provides a useful diagnostic tool for clinically relevant enteric protozoa, including Cryptosporidium spp., Cyclospora cayetanensis, Dientamoeba fragilis, and Giardia lamblia. Further evaluation of the assay is required for Entamoeba histolytica prior to clinical use; however, given the widespread availability of confirmatory serology and stool antigen testing for E. histolytica, such performance limitations are of lesser concern
A Review of Ocular and Systemic Side Effects in Glaucoma Pharmacotherapy
Full text linkGlaucoma, the second leading cause of irreversible blindness globally, encompasses a heterogeneous group of ocular disorders characterized by the progressive degeneration of retinal ganglion cells. Pharmacotherapy remains the cornerstone of treatment, primarily aimed at reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) by decreasing aqueous humor production or enhancing its outflow. The therapeutic classes employed include carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, β-blockers, α-adrenergic agonists, prostaglandin analogs, parasympathomimetics, Rho kinase inhibitors, and hyperosmotic agents. Despite their efficacy, these medications are associated with a range of ocular and systemic side effects, influenced by their mechanisms of action, formulation, and dosage. Ocular adverse effects, such as irritation, dry eye, allergic reactions, and infections, are common, while systemic absorption may lead to more severe outcomes, including organ dysfunction, exacerbation of comorbid conditions, or life-threatening cardiovascular events. Given these potential risks, it is critical for clinicians to understand and monitor these adverse effects as they significantly affect patient adherence, quality of life, and treatment outcomes. Ongoing research is essential to develop novel therapeutic regimens, agents, or delivery methods that minimize side effects and improve compliance. Incorporating patient-reported outcomes in clinical practice may further enhance the assessment of treatment impact, facilitating more tailored and effective management of glaucoma
The Central Mindoro Fault: An Active Sinistral Fault Within the Translational Boundary Between the Palawan Microcontinental Block and the Philippine Mobile Belt
Full text linkThe NNW-trending Central Mindoro Fault (CMF) is an active oblique left-lateral strike-slip fault as determined from offset morphotectonic features such as spurs and streams. Mapping of the trace and determination of the sinistral strike-slip sense of motion of the CMF is essential not only to the assessment of hazards but also to providing a clearer perspective of its role in accommodating deformation resulting from the NW relative motion between the Philippine Sea Plate and the Sunda Plate. Its sense of motion is also kinematically congruent with the NW-SE translation along a transcurrent zone between the Philippine Mobile Belt and the Palawan Microcontinental Block on the western part of the Philippine archipelago. It is also consistent with the left-lateral motion of other structures within the zone, such as the Verde Passage Fault—another structure believed to be accommodating the NW-SE translation. Mapping of the CMF provides a key constraint in identifying the possible mechanism(s) involved in the dextral strike-slip motion of the 1994 Mindoro Earthquake ground rupture, which is subparallel to the CMF
Sex modifies the association between cardiorespiratory fitness and insulin resistance in adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease
Full text linkThis study examines whether sex modifies the association between cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and insulin resistance in adults at risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This study included n = 1,131 (791 females, 340 males; mean age 64.7 years) cognitively unimpaired, nondiabetic participants from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention, a longitudinal observational cohort study enriched with persons with parental history of AD dementia. CRF was estimated using a validated equation, and the Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) quantified insulin resistance from blood samples. Cross-sectional linear regression models were assembled in a moderation framework to test the interaction between CRF and sex on HOMA-IR scores. Finally, sex-stratified analyses were performed to test within-group associations of CRF and HOMA-IR. CRF was negatively associated with HOMA-IR (β = -0.504, SE = 0.21, p = 0.018) and the interaction of CRF and sex was likewise significant (β = -0.849, SE = 0.18, pThe presentation of the authors' names and (or) special characters in the title of the pdf file of the accepted manuscript may differ slightly from what is displayed on the item page. The information in the pdf file of the accepted manuscript reflects the original submission by the author
Untargeted Metabolomics and Targeted Phytohormone Profiling of Sweet Aloes (Euphorbia neriifolia) from Guyana: An Assessment of Asthma Therapy Potential in Leaf Extracts and Latex
Full text linkBackground/Objectives: Euphorbia neriifolia is a succulent plant from the therapeutically rich family of Euphorbia comprising 2000 species globally. E. neriifolia is used in Indigenous Guyanese asthma therapy. Methods: To investigate E. neriifolia’s therapeutic potential, traditionally heated leaf, simple leaf, and latex extracts were evaluated for phytohormones and therapeutic compounds. Full scan, data-dependent acquisition, and parallel reaction monitoring modes via liquid chromatography Orbitrap mass spectrometry were used for screening. Results: Pathway analysis of putative features from all extracts revealed a bias towards the phenylpropanoid, terpenoid, and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways. A total of 850 compounds were annotated using various bioinformatics tools, ranging from confidence levels 1 to 3. Lipids and lipid-like molecules (34.35%), benzenoids (10.24%), organic acids and derivatives (12%), organoheterocyclic compounds (12%), and phenylpropanoids and polyketides (10.35%) dominated the contribution of compounds among the 13 superclasses. Semi-targeted screening revealed 14 out of 16 literature-relevant therapeutic metabolites detected, with greater upregulation in traditional heated extracts. Targeted screening of 39 phytohormones resulted in 25 being detected and quantified. Simple leaf extract displayed 4.4 and 45 times greater phytohormone levels than traditional heated leaf and latex extracts, respectively. Simple leaf extracts had the greatest nucleotide and riboside cytokinin and acidic phytohormone levels. In contrast, traditional heated extracts exhibited the highest free base and glucoside cytokinin levels and uniquely contained methylthiolated and aromatic cytokinins while lacking acidic phytohormones. Latex samples had trace gibberellic acid levels, the lowest free base, riboside, and nucleotide levels, with absences of aromatic, glucoside, or methylthiolated cytokinin forms. Conclusions: In addition to metabolites with possible therapeutic value for asthma treatment, we present the first look at cytokinin phytohormones in the species and Euphorbia genus alongside metabolite screening to present a comprehensive assessment of heated leaf extract used in Indigenous Guyanese asthma therapy
Education and Training Needs of Health Care Professionals in the Philippines Encountering Patients with Lung Oligometastatic Cancers
Full text linkThis study aimed to examine the education and training needs of health care practitioners (HCPs) in the Philippines who encounter lung oligometastatic cancer patients. Lung oligometastatic disease is among the most common sites for cancer spread and has the most established practices for treating oligometastases. A modified version of the Hennessy–Hicks Training Needs Assessment Questionnaire was administered online to HCPs working in private and public centers in the Philippines. HCPs were recruited via purposive sampling. Twenty-seven HCPs completed the questionnaire (47% response rate). Respondents were mostly female (59%) and between the ages of 30 and 39 years (70%). Three-quarters (74%) were consultants, and most respondents were radiation oncologists (44%) or medical oncologists (30%). Medical oncologists rated Management/Supervisory Tasks (mean = 1.42) as their highest area of training need while radiation oncologists rated Clinical Tasks (mean = 1.30) as their highest training need. Pulmonologists (mean = 0.60) and other specialists (mean = 1.00) rated Administration tasks as their top area of training need. The clinical task-related category was rated the highest need among the continuing medical education topics. This study provides valuable insights for the implementation and advancement of a comprehensive curriculum in clinical oncology, specifically designed to enhance the administrative, clinical, and research capacities of oncologists who encounter oligometastatic lung disease in the Philippines