#priority pathogen

[covid-safer-hotties]

The next pandemic is inevitable. Australia isn’t ready - Published Sept 23, 2024

(Before you Americans yell at me, It's already the 23rd in Australia. This is very late-breaking)

I thought this was a really good breakdown of the current situation given the government-approved covid denial we live in. Long, but worth a read.

By Kate Aubusson and Mary Ward

Top infectious disease and public health veterans at the nerve centre of the state’s war against COVID-19 are sounding the alarm.

NSW is less prepared today to fend off a deadly pandemic despite the lessons of COVID-19, say top infectious disease and public health veterans at the nerve centre of the state’s war against the virus.

And we won’t have another hundred years to wait.

NSW’s gold standard Test-Trace-Isolate-Quarantine and vaccination strategies will be useless if a distrusting population rejects directives, refuses to give up its freedoms again, and the goodwill of shell-shocked public health workers dries up.

A panel of experts convened by The Sydney Morning Herald called for a pandemic combat agency akin to the armed forces or fire brigades to commit to greater transparency or risk being caught off guard by the next virulent pathogen and misinformation with the potential to spread faster than any virus.

“It’s inevitable,” says Professor Eddie Holmes of the next pandemic. A world-leading authority on the emergence of infectious diseases at the University of Sydney, Holmes predicts: “We’ll have less than 100 years [before the next pandemic].

“We’re seeing a lot of new coronaviruses that are spilling over into animals that humans are interacting with,” said Holmes, the first person to publish the coronavirus genome sequence for the world to see.

“People are exposed all the time, and each time we are rolling the dice.”

The independent review of NSW Health’s response to COVID-19 opened with the same warning: “No health system or community will have the luxury of 100 years of downtime.”

Pandemic preparedness needs to be a “permanent priority”, wrote the report’s author, Robyn Kruk, a former NSW Health secretary, “rather than following the path of those that have adopted a ‘panic and forget strategy,’ allowing system preparedness to wane”.

Why we don’t have 100 years to wait for the next pandemic The World Health Organisation has declared seven public health emergencies of international concern since 2014, including the current mpox outbreak.

Climate change is turbocharging the factors that coalesce to create the perfect breeding ground for a pandemic-causing virus, including population increases, bigger cities, and better-connected global markets and migration.

“Animals will be forced into more constrained environments, and humans that rely on those environments will be again constrained in the same environments. There will be more wet markets, more live animal trade that will just increase exposure,” Holmes said.

“It was clear that we weren’t ready [for COVID],” said Jennie Musto, who, after seven years working for the World Health Organisation overseas, became NSW Health’s operations manager for the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, the team responsible for NSW’s COVID-19 contact tracing and containment.

“Everyone had preparedness plans gathering dust on a shelf, but no one was actually ready to respond, and so everyone was on the back foot,” Musto said. “Perhaps none of us really thought this was going to happen. We were waiting 500 years.”

Who would willingly become the next doomed whistleblower? Eddie Holmes, known for his repeated assertion that SARS-CoV-2 did not come from a lab, is deeply concerned that when the next pandemic-causing virus emerges, chances are it will be covered up.

“My worry is that if the virus appeared in a small population, say, somewhere in Southeast Asia, the people involved wouldn’t blow the whistle now, given the fact that you would get blamed,” he said.

Li Wenliang, the Wuhan doctor who tried to raise the alarm about a virulent new virus, was reportedly reprimanded by police for spreading rumours and later died of COVID-19.

The global blame game, culminating in a deep distrust of China and accusations that the virus was grown in a Wuhan lab, is why Holmes believes “we’re in no better place than we were before COVID started, if not worse”.

“I work with a lot of people in China trying to keep the lines of communication open, and they’re scared, I think, or nervous about saying things that are perceived to counter national interest.”

From a vaccine perspective, our defences look strong. There have been monumental advancements in vaccine development globally, driven by mRNA technology. In Sydney this month, construction began on an RNA vaccine research and manufacturing facility.

“But the way I see it is that nothing has been done in terms of animal surveillance of outbreaks or data sharing. The [global] politics has got much, much worse,” Holmes said.

Combat force Conjoint Associate Professor Craig Dalton, a leading public health physician and clinical epidemiologist, called for a dramatic expansion of the public health workforce and the establishment of a pandemic combat force that would routinely run real-time pandemic simulations during “peacetime”.

“No one is upset with fire brigades spending most of the time not fighting fires. They train. A lot. And that’s probably how we need to move,” he said.

“We need exercise training units so that every major player in pandemic response is involved in a real-time, three to four-day pandemic response every three to five years at national, state and local [levels].”

The federal Department of Health and Aged Care recently ran a health emergency exercise focused on governance arrangements involving chief health officers and senior health emergency management officials, a spokeswoman for Health Minister Mark Butler said. The outcomes of this exercise will be tested later this year.

Dalton said desktop simulations and high-level exercises involving a handful of chiefs didn’t cut it, considering the thousands of people working across regions and states. He instead suggested an intensive training program run in the Hunter New England region before the 2009 H1N1 pandemic provided a good model.

“We were ringing people, actors were getting injections, just like a real pandemic,” said Dalton, who once ordered a burrito in a last-ditch effort to contact a restaurant exposed to COVID-19.

Our heroes have had it The expert panel was emphatic that our pandemic response cannot once again rely on the goodwill of the public health and healthcare workforce.

According to the Kruk review, what began as an emergency response ultimately morphed from a sprint into an ultra marathon and “an admirable (yet unsustainable) ‘whatever it takes’ mindset”.

They were hailed as heroes, but the toll of COVID-19 on healthcare workers was brutal. Workloads were untenable, the risk of transmission was constant, and the risk of violence and aggression (for simply wearing their scrubs on public transport in some cases) was terrifying.

“We got through this pandemic through a lot of people working ridiculous hours,” Dalton said.

“You talk to a lot of people who did that and say they could not do it again.”

Tellingly, several expert personnel who worked at the front lines or in the control centre of NSW’s pandemic defences were invited to join the Herald’s forum but declined. Revisiting this period of intense public scrutiny, culminating in online attacks and physical threats, was just too painful.

So long, solidarity Arguably, the biggest threat to our pandemic defences will be the absence of our greatest strength during COVID: the population’s solidarity and willingness to follow public health orders even when it meant forfeiting fundamental freedoms.

The public largely complied with statewide public health orders, including the stay-at-home directive that became the 107-day Delta lockdown, and other severe restrictions prevented many from being at the bedside of their dying loved ones, visiting relatives in aged care homes and attending funerals.

“My worry is that next time around when those sorts of rules come out, people may say, ‘Well, don’t worry about it.’ They relax it in the future. Why don’t we just not stick to the rules?” said Professor Nicholas Wood, associate director of clinical research and services at the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance.

“I’m not sure we quite understand whether people [will be] happy with those rules again,” he said.

Dalton was more strident.

“I tend to agree with Michael Osterholm … an eminent US epidemiologist [who] recently said the US is probably less prepared for a pandemic now than it was in 2019, mostly because the learnings by health departments in the COVID pandemic may not make a material difference if faced with a community that distrusts its public health agencies,” he said.

“If H1N1 or something else were to spill over in the next couple of years, things like masks, social distancing and lockdowns would not be acceptable. Vaccination would be rejected by a huge part of the population, and politicians might be shy about putting mandates in.”

As for the total shutdown of major industries, people will struggle to accept it unless the next pandemic poses a greater threat than COVID, said UNSW applied mathematician Professor James Wood.

The risk of the virus to individuals and their families will be weighed against the negative effects of restrictions, which are much better understood today, said Wood, whose modelling of the impact of cases and vaccination rates was used by NSW Health.

“Something like school closure would be a much tougher argument with a similar pathogen,” he said.

A previous panel of education experts convened by the Herald to interrogate pandemic decision-making in that sector was highly critical of the decision to close schools for months during NSW’s Delta lockdown.

Greg Dore, professor of infectious diseases and epidemiology at the Kirby Institute, said the public’s reluctance to adhere to restrictions again may, in part, be appropriate.

“Some of the restrictions on people leaving the country were a bit feudal and too punitive,” he said. “Other restrictions were plain stupid, [for instance] limitations on time exercising outside.”

Meanwhile, the delays to publicly recognise the benefits of face masks and the threat of airborne transmission “ate away at trust”, Dalton said.

“We shouldn’t make those mistakes again,” he said.

Transparent transgressions Uncertainty is not something politicians are adept at communicating, but uncertainty is the only constant during a pandemic of a novel virus.

Vaccines that offered potent protection against early iterations of the COVID virus were less effective against Omicron variants.

“[The public], unfortunately, got hit by a rapid sequence of changes of what was ‘true’ in the pandemic,” James Wood said.

Political distrust can be deadly if governments give the public reason to suspect they are obfuscating.

The expert panel urged NSW’s political leaders to be far more transparent about the public health advice they were given before unilaterally enforcing restrictions.

There was a clear line between public health advice and political decision-making in Victoria. The Victorian chief health officer’s written advice was routinely published online.

In NSW, that line was blurred as Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant stood beside political leaders, most notably former premier Gladys Berejiklian, at the daily press conferences.

Public health experts said that they looked for subtle cues to determine the distinction between the expert advice and the political messaging during press conferences, paying attention to body language, who spoke when and who stayed silent.

“It is fine for public health personnel to have a different view to politicians. They have different jobs. What is not OK is to have politicians saying they are acting on public health advice [when they are not],” he said.

The ‘whys’ behind the decisions being made were missing from the daily press conferences, which created “a vacuum for misinformation”, said social scientist and public health expert Professor Julie Leask at the University of Sydney.

“The communication about what you need to do came out, and it was pretty good … but the ‘why we’re doing this’ and ‘what trade-offs we’ve considered’ and ‘what dilemmas we’ve faced in making this decision’; that was not shared,” Leask said.

The infodemic In the absence of transparency, misinformation and disinformation fill the vacuum.

“We had an ‘infodemic’ during the pandemic,” said Dr Jocelyne Basseal, who worked on the COVID-19 response for WHO in the Western Pacific and leads strategic development at the Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney.

“The public has been so confused. Where do we go for trusted information [when] everyone can now write absolutely anything, whether on Twitter [now called X] or [elsewhere] on the web?” Basseal said.

A systematic review conducted by WHO found misinformation on social media accounted for up to 51 per cent of posts about vaccines, 29 per cent of posts about COVID-19 and 60 per cent of posts about pandemics.

Basseal’s teenage children recently asked whether they were going into lockdown after TikTok videos about the mpox outbreak.

“There is a lot of work to be done now, in ‘peacetime’ … to get ahead of misinformation,” Basseal said, including fortifying relationships with community groups and teaching scientists – trusted and credible sources of information – how to work with media.

In addition to the Kruk review’s six recommendations to improve its pandemic preparedness, NSW Health undertook a second inquiry into its public health response to COVID-19, which made 104 recommendations.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said: “We are working hard to ensure the findings and recommendations from those reports are being implemented as quickly as possible.”

The expert panellists spoke in their capacity as academics and not on behalf of NSW Health or WHO.

The ‘As One System’ review into NSW Health’s COVID-19 response made six recommendations 1. Make governance and decision-making structures clearer, inclusive, and more widely understood 2. Strengthen co-ordination, communication, engagement, and collaboration 3. Enhance the speed, transparency, accuracy, and practicality of data and information sharing 4. Prioritise the needs of vulnerable people and communities most at risk, impacted and in need from day one 5. Put communities at the centre of emergency governance, planning, preparedness, and response 6. Recognise, develop and sustain workforce health, wellbeing, capability and agility.

[ki-kink]

So in all these years of the were teen virus, has there ever been a cure or do the transformers enjoy it too much to care? Looks like they all have fun.

Bro, I had to grind a bit and stumbled on some stuff in a med book. It’s a real mission to read, man:

Seasonal Pubertal Regression (Regressio Pubertatis Temporalis): A Novel Syndrome

Abstract

Seasonal Pubertal Regression (SPR), also known colloquially as "Werteenager Syndrome," is an unusual, episodic condition characterized by the sudden reversion of adult patients to a hypersexualized, pubertal state during weekends. The condition exhibits a consistent temporal pattern, is suspected to have a viral etiology, and has profound physiological and behavioral implications. This paper outlines the clinical features, transmission mechanisms, potential pathophysiology, and observed complications of this emerging syndrome.

Clinical Features

SPR manifests as a dramatic transformation occurring primarily in adults with no prior history of endocrinological disorders. The onset of symptoms begins Friday morning with subtle prodromal signs, including excessive axillary hair growth and pronounced morning erections in male patients. By Friday evening, approximately one hour before sunset, the transformation is complete. During this period, patients exhibit:

Physiological Changes:

Rapid development of body hair, particularly on the chest and axillary regions.

Increased androgen levels, inferred from the heightened libido and secondary sexual characteristics.

Behavioral Changes:

Regression to adolescent-like language and interests, often mirroring the cognitive and emotional behavior of high school students with low academic performance.

Predominantly homosexual behavior, with a smaller subset displaying bisexual tendencies.

Compulsive sexual activity, often with multiple partners.

The transformation reverts spontaneously by Sunday evening, approximately one hour after sunset. However, in rare cases, a permanent adolescent state, termed Persistent Pubertal Regression (PPR), has been observed.

Transmission

SPR is presumed to be an infectious disease, transmitted through:

Sexual Contact: The primary route of infection, as evidenced by the sexual hyperactivity of patients during symptomatic episodes.

Body Fluids: Saliva, blood, and other bodily secretions are likely vectors.

Droplet Transmission: Close contact during symptomatic periods is hypothesized to contribute to the spread.

Epidemiological studies reveal a clustering of cases in densely populated areas with high rates of casual sexual encounters.

Pathophysiology

The precise mechanism remains unclear. However, the following factors are hypothesized:

Solar Influence: The timing of transformations suggests a strong correlation with circadian rhythms and solar positioning. This aligns with the hypothesis of a photoresponsive trigger.

Hormonal Dysregulation: An abrupt surge in androgenic and possibly estrogenic activity drives the secondary sexual characteristics and behavioral changes.

Neurological Impact: The regression in cognitive and linguistic abilities points to temporary, reversible alterations in neurochemical pathways.

Complications

One documented case of PPR provides insight into the potential severity of SPR. A pair of patients engaged in reciprocal oral-genital contact ("69" position) during the Sunday evening transition period. Both individuals retained their adolescent state indefinitely. This rare complication underscores the need for further study into the temporal dynamics of SPR.

Management and Future Directions

No effective treatments for SPR currently exist. Research priorities include:

Identification of the Pathogen: Advanced virological studies are needed to isolate the causative agent.

Therapeutic Interventions: Hormonal modulation and phototherapy are potential avenues for investigation.

Behavioral Support: Counseling and harm reduction strategies should be implemented to mitigate the social and psychological impacts on patients and their contacts.

Conclusion

SPR represents a unique intersection of infectious disease, endocrinology, and behavioral science. Its distinct clinical presentation, temporal predictability, and social implications warrant immediate scientific attention. Understanding this condition could provide novel insights into human physiology and the interplay between environment and health.

Dude, so I did some digging and found out about these two bros who were, like, getting down in the 69 position. One dude was this 42-year-old McDonald's branch manager, kind of hefty. Bet he caught it from a weekend warrior coworker. The other guy's a 56-year-old trucker who picked up a hitchhiker with the bad vibes. Now they're both chilling as juniors at a sports college in Minnesota.

Got booted from the Olympic swim team 'cause they wouldn’t shave their chest hair. But no sweat, they’re still legends at the local pool, doing lifeguard duty.

[mindblowingscience]

Researchers have identified an entirely new class of antibiotic that can kill bacteria that are resistant to most current drugs. Zosurabalpin is highly effective against the bacterium carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (Crab), which is classified as a "priority 1" pathogen by the World Health Organization due to its growing presence in hospitals.

Continue Reading.

[beanjang-draws]

Plague Ponies - Research

CONTENT WARNINGS: no gore

Masterpost | Previous | Next

Summary:

Twilight doesn’t want to admit it, but things in Equestria haven’t been in tip-top shape recently. It looks like even Princess Celestia has judged that the news cycle has been too grim as of late, as she’s instructed Twilight not to make a public statement about the number of ponies who fell ill after the Everfree attack.

With the help of her number one assistant, Twilight tries to figure out how exactly to quietly prep for an epidemic when they both remember: Granny Smith is super old! She must know what to do? Wait, Pinkie? What are you doing here?!

Twilight and Pinkie end up going to Sweet Apple Acres together, where Twilight is given a book that just might contain the answers she needs. Now to decide her next course of action…should she go back to the orchard and head home now, or should she indulge for just a second in Apple Bloom’s request to check on her project?

Transcript below:

Twilight Sparkle: Thank you for understanding, Doctor. I’ll send word immediately if anything changes.

Greymare: Of course, Princess. We appreciate your generosity. Everything should be ready within the week.

Twilight: Of course. If you’re in need of any more funds, tell the distributors to contact me.

Doctor Greymare bids his farewells to Princess Twilight and takes his leave. Twilight heads back inside the library, where Spike is looking on with concern.

Spike: Twilight…are you sure we shouldn’t tell everypony now? If everypony in Ponyville really is infected, shouldn’t they all know?

Twilight Sparkle: I don’t like delaying things either, Spike, but you read Princess Celestia’s letter out yourself. Our priority is to avoid panic until we know we can answer their inevitable questions.

Spike: I guess that makes sense…hearing about another disaster after the last string of disasters would make everypony totally freak out!

Twilight Sparkle: Spike!

Spike: What? Im agreeing with you! It’s a bad idea to tell everypony about an epidemic after a discord came back, got better, accidentally caused the princesses’ kidnappings, delayed the Summer Sun Celebration—

Twilight Sparkle: SPIKE

Spike lets up after Twilight’s outburst, looking amused as she takes a breath to collect herself.

Twilight Sparkle: Maybe things haven’t been the most…stable, lately, but the princesses have everything under control. Plus, I’ve been reading up on epidemiology and it’s normal for new pathogens to crop up every few decades. We just have to be prepared for them!

Spike: Oh, perfect! You’re the most prepared pony I know!

Twilight loses her composure entirely.

Twilight Sparkle: BUT I’M NOT PREPARED! I’M THE ONE WHO’S SUPPOSED TO TAKE CARE OF PONYVILLE NOW, BUT I CAN’T EVEN KEEP IT SAFE. ALL I’VE DONE IS LEARN TO FLY AND MEMORIZE PRINCESS ETIQUETTE. THAT’S NOT GOING TO HELP ANYPONY!

Spike: Hey, you’ve been busy saving all of Equestria! You didn’t prepare for that either, but it went fine in the end because of your friends.

Twilight Sparkle: I guess so…

Spike: If these diseases pop up every now and then, Ponyville must have had some experience with this sort of thing before. You just finished talking to Doctor Greymare, right? Maybe he could help.

Twilight Sparkle: That’s just the thing, Spike. He said he hasn’t heard of anything like this before, at least not while he’s been running the hospital.

Spike: Is there anypony who might know what happened before him?

Twilight Sparkle: You would have to be ancient to remember anything further back than that. You’d have to be…

The cogs in Twilight’s head begin to turn, and she and Spike come to the same conclusion simultaneously.

Twilight Sparkle and Spike: Somepony old like Granny Smith!

Twilight Sparkle: Spike, you’re a genius!

Spike: Bah, this is just a run of the mill performance from your number one assistant.

Twilight Sparkle: We should head to Sweet Apple Acres right now—

Suddenly, Pinkie Pie bursts in out of nowhere.

Pinkie Pie: TWILIGHT!!!! SOMETHING BIG IS COMING!!!!!!! THE FATE OF PONYVILLE DEPENDS ON IT

Spike: Pinkie, could you bring down the volume a little? My ears have been sensitive lately…

Pinkie Pie: Oh, sorry, Spike! The fate of Ponyville depends on it!

Spike: Thanks

Twilight Sparkle: Is it your Pinkie sense? Can you feel something bad coming?

Pinkie Pie: Yes! It’s big! Huge! Even bigger and huger than the time you believed in my Pinkie sense!

Spike: Wow, that IS big.

Twilight Sparkle: Well, if it’s so serious, we should tell everypony to stay indoors for the time being.

Pinkie Pie: Waaay ahead of you, Twilight! I already warned everypony not to take any unnecessary journeys on the way here.

Twilight Sparkle: Thank you Pinkie, you’ve saved us a lot of time. Now we can—

Pinkie Pie: —consult Granny Smith for her firsthoof account on Ponyville’s history of health and safety protocols?

Twilight Sparkle: …I won’t even ask. Yes, Pinkie, we’re doing just that.

Pinkie Pie: That’s a great idea, Twilight! Lead the way :3

Twilight Sparkle: Alright, let’s get to Sweet Apple Acres.

Pinkie Pie and Twilight Sparkle begin to clear out to head to the farm. Twilight notices Spike hasn’t made moves to join them, so she sticks her head back inside to check on him.

Twilight Sparkle: Spike, aren’t you coming?

Spike: You know, Twilight, if staying indoors is so important, I think I’d better stay here and…make sure Owlowicious doesn’t go wandering around while you’re gone.

Twilight Sparkle: Alright, number one assistant! I’m leaving the library under your watch. We shouldn’t be gone too long.

It looks like most Ponyville Residents have caught wind of Pinkie’s warnings! Twilight and Pinkie only see a few ponies out and about on their way to Sweet Apple Acres. this far out, the news hasn’t yet reached the Apples, who are occupied with a busy apple bucking season.

Applejack: Howdy y’all! What brings you down to the farm?

Pinkie Pie: My Pinkie sense has been going off all morning! Im not sure what this one means!

Twilight Sparkle: But I think I could figure it out. AJ, could I talk to Granny Smith?

Applejack: Sure thing! She shouldn’t have hunkered down for her afternoon nap just yet.

Twilight Sparkle: Alright, girls, I’ll be right back.

Pinkie Pie: I’ll stay with Applejack and lend a hoof with the apples!

Applejack: You know what, that’d be mighty helpful of you, Pinkie! Big Mac’s been sick, so I’ve been buckin’ these trees all on my own!

Twilight goes off to see Granny Smith on her own.

Twilight Sparkle: Hello, Granny Smith! Sorry to barge in on you like this..

Granny Smith: Not at all, dearie. In fact, you ought to visit more often! I hear so much about you from Apple Bloom, you really should stay for supper one of these days and tell us about your lessons yourself!

Twilight Sparkle: Thank you, Granny. I’ll make sure to visit more often. Unfortunately, I didn’t come by just to say hi today. I actually did have a few questions for you.

Granny Smith: Of course! Ask away, dear, I’m all ears.

Twilight Sparkle: Have there ever been any emergency health and safety protocols in Ponyville?

Granny Smith: Emergency what now?

Twilight Sparkle: Have there been any outbreaks of sickness in Ponyville in the past? Did the town have a way of dealing with them?

Granny Smith: Oh! You just mean the plague ponies. Hold on dear, I know I’ve got a book back here somewhere…it’s been sitting collecting dust! A sign of better times, I reckon…now if only I could find it…

Granny Smith begins rummaging around the house looking for the aforementioned book.

Twilight Sparkle: I think this might be just the thing I need! I haven’t heard of plague ponies before. None of my books mention them at all.

Granny Smith: Oh, your fancy city books wouldn’t have anything on this.

Granny Smith returns with a beat up looking book on hoof.

Granny Smith: I knew I still had one laying around!

Twilight Sparkle: Thank you, Granny. Um, what it is?

Granny Smith: It’s a home remedy book! Back when the town was first settling, we had all sorts of sicknesses popping up. Prob’ly from all the different ponies coming together. Without much of a way to reach Canterlot yet, we couldn’t get aid from the big city for any fancy doctor magic.

Twilight Sparkle: Oh…I had no idea that happened.

Granny Smith: Heh-heh…I’m not surprised they didn’t teach you this in your Canterlot history classes…What city pony aid we lacked, we made up for in home remedies. We each of us came together and pooled our knowledge in books like these. Here, you take this. This one’s got some of my own notes in it. Maybe you could add your own!

Twilight Sparkle: I couldn’t possibly take this from you! It’s a part of your history…

Granny Smith: It’s yours, too. And it’s doing nopony any good collecting dust with me. Just promise me to read every bit of it.

Twilight Sparkle: …Thank you, Granny. I will.

Granny Smith: Alright, now I’m off to hit the hay. Apple Bloom, you should show Twilight your plant project in the barn!

Granny Smith turns to go and take her afternoon nap. Apple Bloom appears, eager to get her turn talking to Twilight.

Twilight Sparkle: Ooh, have you figured out how to get your subjects to multiply?

Apple Bloom: I sure did!! I made the adjustments you told me to and added a little something of my own! You’ve gotta come and see it!!

POLL: Should Twilight go see Apple Bloom’s Project?

RESULT: Yes

End transcript

[rebeccathenaturalist]

California agencies working to protect critically endangered condors are on high alert after 20 recent deaths in northern Arizona, wildlife officials said last week.

A highly pathogenic avian influenza that has infected domestic and wild birds across the country has been confirmed as the cause of death for California condors in in the Arizona-Utah flock. By April 17, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reported 20 condors had died. So far, tests confirmed 10 of those birds were positive for the avian flu.

The virus had not been detected in condor populations in Ventura County or other parts of California and Baja as of late this week. But agencies monitoring those flocks were preparing emergency actions in case that changes, said Ashleigh Blackford, the federal agency’s California condor coordinator.

“Our concern is definitely heightened in California,” Blackford said.

More populations, more protection

Agencies have worked for decades to help the species recover. The largest flying land bird in North America — known for its bald head and black feathers — had all but disappeared in the wild by the early 1980s. 

The population dropped to just 22 birds in the wild in 1982. Five years later, all remaining wild condors were placed in a captive breeding program to save the species from extinction.

By the end of last year, 347 condors lived in the wild – 183 in California and 116 in the Arizona-Utah region. 

Supporting separate populations in different areas was part of the plan to help the species overcome any single event such as a virus outbreak or wildfire. The more populations and the more birds increases the odds of survival, Blackford said.

The condors also continue to rely on captive-bred birds being released into the wild.

Virus can be fatal

The avian influenza can spread quickly and appears to be almost 100% fatal for some species. But scientists didn’t know until the recent outbreak how infected condors would fare.

“Now, we know that answer, and it is an unfortunate answer," Blackford said.

But some condors do appear to be recovering. Eight sick condors were captured in Arizona and brought to a facility for treatment. Of those, four died and four others are still receiving care and showing signs of improvement, wildlife officials said.

A setback for Arizona flock

The 20 recent deaths account for around 17% of the Arizona-Utah flock. That's four times the number of deaths in the region last year.

"That’s a substantial setback for this flock," Blackford said. "But it is not insurmountable."

In all of last year, the agency reported 20 condor deaths, most of them in California. Lead poisoning is consistently the leading the cause of death and continues to be the biggest concern for agencies working to protect the species.

The birds feed on carcasses containing bullet fragments, so trying to get folks to use other types of ammunition continues to be a priority, wildlife officials said. Lead poisoning not only can be fatal but also can suppress the immune system, increasing the condors risk from other illnesses.

"If we were not losing birds to lead, then our population would be stronger," Blackford said. "It would be more robust, and we would have healthier birds."

How to help

While the risk to the public's health is low, officials said human infections can happen and the general public should avoid handling wild birds. State and federal agencies recommended the following tips.

Report dead birds using the state's mortality reporting system to help officials monitor the outbreak at wildlife.ca.gov/Living-with-Wildlife.

If you see condors, observe from a distance. Stress can be harmful to birds exhibiting symptoms of illness.

Keep your family, including pets, a safe distance away from wildlife. Do not feed, handle or approach sick or dead animals or their droppings.

Prevent contact of domestic or captive birds with wild birds. 

Find more information about the avian influenza: cdfa.ca.gov/ahfss/Animal_Health/Avian_Influenza.html, aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information.

[noneedtofearorhope]

Closer than ever: It is now 89 seconds to midnight

In 2024, humanity edged ever closer to catastrophe. Trends that have deeply concerned the Science and Security Board continued, and despite unmistakable signs of danger, national leaders and their societies have failed to do what is needed to change course. Consequently, we now move the Doomsday Clock from 90 seconds to 89 seconds to midnight—the closest it has ever been to catastrophe. Our fervent hope is that leaders will recognize the world’s existential predicament and take bold action to reduce the threats posed by nuclear weapons, climate change, and the potential misuse of biological science and a variety of emerging technologies.

In setting the Clock one second closer to midnight, we send a stark signal: Because the world is already perilously close to the precipice, a move of even a single second should be taken as an indication of extreme danger and an unmistakable warning that every second of delay in reversing course increases the probability of global disaster.

In regard to nuclear risk, the war in Ukraine, now in its third year, looms over the world; the conflict could become nuclear at any moment because of a rash decision or through accident or miscalculation. Conflict in the Middle East threatens to spiral out of control into a wider war without warning. The countries that possess nuclear weapons are increasing the size and role of their arsenals, investing hundreds of billions of dollars in weapons that can destroy civilization. The nuclear arms control process is collapsing, and high-level contacts among nuclear powers are totally inadequate given the danger at hand. Alarmingly, it is no longer unusual for countries without nuclear weapons to consider developing arsenals of their own—actions that would undermine longstanding nonproliferation efforts and increase the ways in which nuclear war could start.

The impacts of climate change increased in the last year as myriad indicators, including sea-level rise and global surface temperature, surpassed previous records. The global greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change continued to rise. Extreme weather and other climate change-influenced events—floods, tropical cyclones, heat waves, drought, and wildfires—affected every continent. The long-term prognosis for the world’s attempts to deal with climate change remains poor, as most governments fail to enact the financing and policy initiatives necessary to halt global warming. Growth in solar and wind energy has been impressive but remains insufficient to stabilize the climate. Judging from recent electoral campaigns, climate change is viewed as a low priority in the United States and many other countries.

In the biological arena, emerging and re-emerging diseases continue to threaten the economy, society, and security of the world. The off-season appearance and in-season continuance of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), its spread to farm animals and dairy products, and the occurrence of human cases have combined to create the possibility of a devastating human pandemic. Supposedly high-containment biological laboratories continue to be built throughout the world, but oversight regimes for them are not keeping pace, increasing the possibility that pathogens with pandemic potential may escape. Rapid advances in artificial intelligence have increased the risk that terrorists or countries may attain the capability of designing biological weapons for which countermeasures do not exist.

An array of other disruptive technologies advanced last year in ways that make the world more dangerous. Systems that incorporate artificial intelligence in military targeting have been used in Ukraine and the Middle East, and several countries are moving to integrate artificial intelligence into their militaries. Such efforts raise questions about the extent to which machines will be allowed to make military decisions—even decisions that could kill on a vast scale, including those related to the use of nuclear weapons. Tensions among the major powers are increasingly reflected in competition in space, where China and Russia are actively developing anti-satellite capabilities; the United States has alleged that Russia has tested a satellite with a dummy warhead on it, suggesting plans to place nuclear weapons in orbit.

The dangers we have just listed are greatly exacerbated by a potent threat multiplier: the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and conspiracy theories that degrade the communication ecosystem and increasingly blur the line between truth and falsehood. Advances in AI are making it easier to spread false or inauthentic information across the internet—and harder to detect it. At the same time, nations are engaging in cross-border efforts to use disinformation and other forms of propaganda to subvert elections, while some technology, media, and political leaders aid the spread of lies and conspiracy theories. This corruption of the information ecosystem undermines the public discourse and honest debate upon which democracy depends. The battered information landscape is also producing leaders who discount science and endeavor to suppress free speech and human rights, compromising the fact-based public discussions that are required to combat the enormous threats facing the world.

Blindly continuing on the current path is a form of madness. The United States, China, and Russia have the collective power to destroy civilization. These three countries have the prime responsibility to pull the world back from the brink, and they can do so if their leaders seriously commence good-faith discussions about the global threats outlined here. Despite their profound disagreements, they should take that first step without delay. The world depends on immediate action.

It is 89 seconds to midnight.

[dailyanarchistposts]

It doesn’t take a health food nut to see that modern society has a dysfunctional relationship with food. As in almost every other arena of life, our priorities are elsewhere — if not in wage slavery and staying out of debt, then in escapist entertainment or selfnumbing addictions. Even among radicals and anarchists, healthy and mindful dietary practices are often considered a luxury reserved for that mythical post-revolutionary era that we are supposedly laying the groundwork for, when our children’s children, or their children, can enjoy safe, pure, nutritious food. Sounds like a plan. Except for a few things...

While time frames are questionable, there is no denying that the current food production system is a recipe for disaster. Soils are becoming sterile, salinated and toxic, eroding into streams and poisoning irrigation and drinking waters. As is a basic natural inclination, “weeds”, insects, viruses, fungi, and bacteria are adapting to each new, stranger dose of pesticide and herbicide with a vengeance/developing resistances that rival that of the pathogens resisting antibiotic drugs in medicine. The health crises resulting from the malnutrition of the industrialized west — and those outside the west who have been force fed our diets for a century or more — multiply and deepen faster than the pharmaceutical industry can develop their quick fixes.

More fundamental problems like global warming, species extinctions, and polluted waters, all of which affect agriculture and health profoundly, complicate the crisis. So when passing off the job of steering our food systems back on a path of ecological and social sanity, just what is it we are asking future generations to inherit?

[darkmaga-returns]

Africa has become a focal point of interest for the US government.

They views the region as an unlimited natural reservoir of dangerous pathogens and a testing ground for experimental medical treatments, according to the Russian military.

The defense ministry in Moscow claims that the US is significantly expanding its military-biological presence in Africa, raising concerns about sovereignty and healthcare dependencies among participating nations,

Reporting about US biolab activities was one of the main priorities of Lieutenant General Igor Kirillov who was murdered in Moscow last week. He was the Russian military’s top official on the hazards posed by weapons of mass destruction.

RT reports: The Russian Ministry of Defense continues to scrutinize the military-biological activities of the US in Ukraine and other regions worldwide. Previously, attention was drawn to the transfer of unfinished Ukrainian projects to post-Soviet states and Southeast Asia.

According to Major General Aleksey Rtishchev, the deputy chief of the Radiation, Chemical and Biological Defense Troops, Washington’s system for managing biological risks in other countries was tested in Ukraine and Georgia, and is now actively employed in Africa.

In a briefing on Tuesday, Rtishchev said the US views Africa as a limitless natural reservoir for dangerous infectious agents and a testing ground for experimental medical products. The activities of this system are directed towards acquiring pathogens in endemic areas and natural focal points, he explained, as well as monitoring and managing the biological situation to serve US interests.

[theramseyloft]

Do I need to vaccinate my indoor rescue pigeon?

How necessary is giving birds their vaccines?

Do only breeders need to do it?

What is PMV and Paratyphoid?

Whether or not to vaccinate your birds mostly depends on how frequently they will be exposed to other birds.

Breeders bring in new birds or take their own to compete in shows with birds that may or may not have been vaccinated or exposed to pathogens they could carry.

Rescues bring in birds that are injured or actively sick.

Ferals live in constant exposure to a wide range of diseases that pet birds lack the immunity to that they have developed.

So, for breeders, showers, rescues, and pet owners whose birds enjoy going out in public, better safe than sorry.

But if your birds don't like going out, new birds don't come in, and you don't habitually go to other lofts or attend shows, then you should be fine.

PMV is the abbreviation for Paramyxovirus.

Which is a virus type that attacks the nervous system of a bird directly. It isn't always fatal, but morbidity is very high, and survivors are often left with permanent neurological damage.

Newcastle is a Paramyxovirus. It and the one for pigeons are two different species. Pigeons can't catch newcastle, but I am not sure what if any crossover there is between pigeon PMV and chickens.

Paratyphoid is a salmonella bacteria that is more specialized to birds, and attacks all of their organs at once instead of just the digestive tract.

Those are the two scary pathogens a breeder or rescue might lose an entire flock to, so those were the highest priority for the development of vaccines.

[cogsandgadgetry]

The Doctor would immediately recognize the serious threat Earth's pathogens pose to Nyssa and Adric. Given their alien physiology, even a common cold could be life-threatening, let alone more severe diseases like influenza or measles. Their immune systems simply wouldn't be equipped to handle the bacteria and viruses that humans encounter every day. Vaccinations would be a top priority for the Doctor to ensure their survival, but it wouldn't be a simple process.

The first stop for Nyssa and Adric would be UNIT, where they'd be immediately placed under quarantine. As a scientist, Nyssa might have dreaded this part of the journey, fully aware of the risks Earth’s pathogens pose and the need for vaccinations. Despite understanding the necessity, she would likely feel uneasy about the process, knowing that any misstep could have serious consequences for both of them.

[covid-safer-hotties]

Study Reveals How COVID-19 Infection Can Cause or Worsen Diabetes - Published Sept 13, 2024

Researchers from Weill Cornell Medicine have used a cutting-edge model system to uncover the mechanism by which SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, induces new cases of diabetes, and worsens complications in people who already have it. The team found that viral exposure activates immune cells that in turn destroy beta (β) cells, the pancreatic cells that produce insulin. The study was published Sept. 2 in Cell Stem Cell.

“There has long been a hypothesis in the field that certain viral infections may trigger type 1 diabetes," said co-corresponding author Dr. Shuibing Chen, director of the Center for Genomic Health, the Kilts Family Professor of Surgery and a member of the Hartman Institute for Therapeutic Organ Regeneration at Weill Cornell Medicine. “But we were able to show how this happens in the context of COVID-19 infection.”

“When someone has severe COVID-19, of course the first priority is to treat the life-threatening symptoms,” said co-corresponding author Dr. Robert Schwartz, an associate professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine and a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at NewYork-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. “But moving forward, there may be a way to develop clinical therapeutics that help avoid later injury to organs like the pancreas.”

Dr. Liuliu Yang and Dr. Yuling Han, who were postdoctoral fellows in the Department of Surgery, and Dr. Tuo Zhang, an instructor in microbiology and immunology at Weill Cornell Medicine, were co-first authors of the paper.

From the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, doctors caring for sick patients observed that the virus affected a number of organ systems, including not only the lungs, but also the heart, liver, colon and pancreas. For the current work, the researchers started with samples of pancreatic tissue from autopsies of people who had died of COVID-19. They observed that the pancreatic islets, the parts of the pancreas that generate the insulin to regulate blood sugar, were damaged.

They then used an analysis technique called GeoMx to study the samples in more detail. This revealed the presence of immune cells called proinflammatory macrophages in the tissues. The job of these macrophages is to kill off pathogens, but they sometimes cause collateral damage to healthy tissues.

To learn more about this activity, the team used a model system developed in the Chen Lab that had never been used before; pancreatic islet organoids (mini organs) that included both a vascular system and immune cells. “If we want to use organoids to study how a disease progresses, it’s important to be able to include components of the immune system in these models,” said Dr. Chen. In this case, after infecting the organoids with SARS-CoV-2, they found the macrophages appeared to be killing off the β cells through a type of cell death called pyroptosis.

The team also used the organoids to study how the pancreas responds to infection with another infectious virus — coxsackievirus B4, which has been implicated in the onset of type 1 diabetes. They found a similar macrophage response. “Moving forward, this organoid system is going to be useful for looking at other viruses as well,” Dr. Schwartz said.

Further research on the signaling molecules that activate the macrophages also suggested potential interventions for protecting β cells from damage in patients with severe infections. Although it is too early to begin testing any treatments, this is something that may be possible in the future. This work could also help shed light on the underlying causes of long COVID, a condition that is believed to affect more than 15 million people in the United States.

Many Weill Cornell Medicine physicians and scientists maintain relationships and collaborate with external organizations to foster scientific innovation and provide expert guidance. The institution makes these disclosures public to ensure transparency. For this information, see profiles for Dr. Shuibing Chen and Dr. Robert Schwartz.

The research reported in this story was supported by the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, part of the National Institutes of Health, through grant numbers R01DK137517, R01DK124463, R01DK130454, R01DK121072. The study also used data acquired from the Human Pancreas Analysis Program (HPAP-RRID:SCR_016202) Database), a Human Islet Research Network consortium (UC4-DK-112217, U01-DK-123594, UC4-DK-112232, and U01-DK-123716); and the Integrated Islet Isolation and Distribution Program (IIDP), NIH grant UC4DK098085.

The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of the National Institutes of Health.

Study Link: www.cell.com/cell-stem-cell/fulltext/S1934-5909(24)00293-5

[realjaysumlin]

Vaginal Odor: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

A smelly pussy might be a sign of a serious health issue. The three most overlooked hygienes on the human body are the ears, mouth and nose. These parts of the body often get overlooked and not taken seriously even though these organs are closer to the human brain.

The first thing pathogens try to reach is the brain because the chemicals are enriched inside of our brains. Brain health is crucial and should always be given high priority.

The brain controls everything and we should be very protective of what goes into it. A smelly pussy is a good indicator along with the anus. Please pay attention to them both, it might save your life.

[sahib-ansari]

Is vinyl flooring the right choice for Hospital?

Vinyl flooring consistently ranks as a top choice for hospital settings, thanks to its combination of durability, hygiene, and cost-effectiveness. Here’s why vinyl is often preferred for hospital flooring: 1. Durability and Longevity Hospitals are high-traffic areas where flooring must withstand constant use. Vinyl flooring is incredibly durable, resisting wear and tear from heavy foot traffic, gurneys, and wheelchairs. Its longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a practical choice for busy healthcare facilities.

2. Easy Maintenance and Cleaning Hygiene is a top priority in hospitals. Vinyl’s non-porous surface makes it resistant to stains and easy to clean, which is essential for maintaining a sterile environment. Regular mopping and periodic deep cleaning keep vinyl floors in pristine condition, helping to prevent the spread of infections.

3. Hygienic and Antimicrobial Properties Vinyl flooring can be treated with antimicrobial coatings that inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, a crucial feature in healthcare settings. Additionally, the seamless installation of vinyl reduces seams where dirt and pathogens can accumulate, further enhancing cleanliness.

Read more...............: Vinyl flooring

[mwolf0epsilon]

The Umbaran Pathogen - Day 28: Oxygen Deprivation

Summary: A trap is set but Tup is not so easily fooled...

Warning: This chapter very briefly mentions the topic of incest for shock value.

It's not acted upon, just mentioned because of the way the infection process usually works (it's even specified that because the parasites infected the clones, that they had to adapt to the fact they are infecting brothers and thus have to alter the way the pair bond between the Queen/Hive Leader and Drones works so as to not cause a visceral negative and stressful reaction to their host body), there is no actual instance of this sort of gross behavior.

The author in no way condones incest nor does she support cl*necest/cl*ne-shipping.

With that said, if you are uncomfortable by just the slightest mention of this topic, feel free to skip this chapter! I will fully understand and support the decision to do so if it is triggering for my readers!

Twitch belongs to @gaeasun Pitch belongs to @lost-on-kamino

Here's what Tup and Dogma currently look like!

Prev / Next

[In which the events on Umbara are worsened by an unknown pathogen taking hold of both the 501st and 212th. These series of drabbles will follow a non-linear timeline based on the AI-less Whumptober prompt list for 2023.]

THIS STORY IS ALSO ON AO3

---

Despite the current situation with the cooling system, with Dogma back to his senses perhaps there was a chance to bring Tup in without as much of a fuss as they originally thought.

After calming down from his (very understandable) earlier outburst, the sergeant had regained enough of his composure to explain to them what little he'd figured out while under the parasite's control. That his heavily mutated twin's greatest priority had, in a twisted sort of way, been that of the safety of the vode. Of keeping them protected within the hive that Dogma had been instructed to construct.

Something which the medics had inadvertently disrupted, after they'd gone and taken all of the cocoons that had been stored. Further aggravating the situation by then extracting the not yet transformed clones from their chrysalides. Painting a massive target on their backs by making themselves out to be a threat, much like Krell had done with his clear disregard of clone life.

It definitely shone a new light as to why Tup had not only orchestrated such a brutal ambush on them, as well as doubled down on viciousness since Dogma's capture. Why, instead of retreating, he had begun to circle around the building more actively. Awaiting their next move while looking for any exploitable weaknesses that he could use against them.

Such as the utility sheds that housed the actual cooling system that kept the medical facility too frigid for the infected to invade.

"He still loves us... He just..." Dogma looked away sadly. Still far too ashamed of his previous actions to meet any of their gazes. Ashamed of how they had ultimately affected the medics that he had attacked while under the parasite's spell. "He just can't see that what he's doing is wrong..."

To be fair, he had more than good reason to be so hesitant. Especially considering Pitch, Coric and Sponge looked so incredibly afraid of him, now that they were awake and alert and in the same room as their attacker.

To be fair to Dogma (which they were trying, but it was just hard to separate him from the events he'd been temporarily complicit to), they all knew he didn't really want to hurt anyone. Hadn't wanted to do any of the things he'd done to them. So they sat and listened even if they couldn't help the tremor of their hands and knees.

"That's what the parasite wants." Twitch blinked tiredly, trying to shake the fog of sleep that still clung to him like a leech. He'd woken up not 5 minutes ago and still looked very much asleep on his feet, but at least he'd gotten a much needed nap.

Not enough, but just about. The needed amount to at least respond a little more quickly to the attack that was no doubt coming soon. With the cooling system disabled, the temperature in the medical facility was slowly and steadily increasing, which meant Tup would be prowling the halls in search of them.

Ready to strike them down for what he perceived as crimes against his kin. And, considering the transformation he'd undergone (which Twitch had informed them was actually much less impressive than what it would have been, had Tup not been pushed into a proverbial corner and forced himself to change so quickly in accordance to the threat), he would have no trouble killing all of them with minimal effort.

"The one advantage we have is that he doesn't know where in the facility we are..." Pitch offered. He was seated on a hoverchair, since he currently couldn't walk. "And there's enough floors in this facility that we could keep him turned around if we had a way to track him..."

"That won't work for long." Dogma shook his head, dismissing the idea completely. "His sense of smell is... Really strong."

"I take it yours is the same?" Kix asked, noting how the sergeant's antennae kept twitching and he'd occasionally pause to sniff the air like a massiff. He hadn't voiced his curiosity on the matter beforehand, but now felt like a good time.

"I uh... I can kind of smell what you're all... Feeling?" Dogma looked down at his clawed feet in embarrassment. His four hands linking together nervously as he tried to focus on anything but the group before him. "Its uh... It's hard to explain. But I can smell Tup a lot more than I can smell you...If that makes sense? It uh... It makes me feel a little weird..."

"That would be the pheromones..." Twitch shook his head. "Without the parasite controlling you, they don't have as strong an effect that they did before. But your body will still react to them... You uh, might feel a little compelled to go to him since your caste role is essentially tending to the queen..."

"So, Tup can still have affect on him? Even without the parasite?" Fives sounded a little concerned as he asked this. Which was, honestly, quite valid of the ARC. They needed to know what they'd be up against.

"He won't turn on us, if that's what you're worried about." Twitch held up a hand to reassure them all. "But the pheromones will either uh... I don't know how to explain it. They'll slow him down? Like uh, like he's been sedated. And he might feel compelled to get closer."

"I've had a look at the notes myself." Kix sighed "The pair bond between the queen and the drones is usually of uh, another nature completely. But since the parasites attached themselves to two brothers, they had to adapt to the situation accordingly. Which means the signals are all a little mixed up, but still strong."

"Oh... Oh....OH." Fives made a somewhat disgusted sound at the thought, which Dogma more than understood. If the way he shuddered and visibly gagged was anything to go by. "At least uh... Ewugh..."

"The parasites use the intellect of their hosts. The smarter the host species, the better for it to succeed..." Kix tried not to delve deeper onto the subject, which was inciting some very visceral and rightful reactions of disgust at the mere thought of that. "Which means they understand social concepts like what is and isn't taboo, and try to adhere to some of those conventions to avoid stressing the host..."

"The only thing they don't balk at is cannibalism..." Dogma sighed, feeling even sicker as he recalled what Coric tasted like.

Knowing the other might need to amputate his arm after he'd bitten off a chunk of his shoulder, made his heart more than ache. He didn't want to be the cause behind a vod's disability. Unfortunately that might very well be the case...

It was one of the things he'd done that, despite it not being his fault, he'd never forgive himself for.

"Cannibalism is ok, but I guess they draw the line at in--"

"Lets not talk about this anymore!" Rex exclaimed, putting an end to the topic altogether so that no one ended up losing their lunch. "We need a plan..."

"Working on it." Pitch grumbled as he seemed to be struggling to wrack his brain for what to do. They were steadily running out of time too, since they could now safely remove their helmets and loosen their grip on their blankets.

Tup would soon be coming to claim his kills...

"What if we use Dogma as bait?" Sponge finally spoke up, their speech slightly slurred and their voice having become incredibly nasally from their nose being broken.

"Uh?" Dogma looked towards them, blinking his two original eyes which still had eyelids (and even developed a third eyelid as well).

"Eusocial insects like ants and bees are heavily reliant on pheromones to communicate." Sponge pointed out, for once remembering a great portion of Canivete's infodumping and feeling grateful for it. "You're both eusocial insectoids right now, so even if his pheromones have an affect on you, yours surely have an affect on him as well..."

"....Hm." Twitch tapped his chin in thought. "In theory, it could work..."

"But... But I have no idea how to do that!" Dogma cried out. "How to uh, to use those..."

"It's a natural occurring thing, and not something you activate on a whim." Sponge reassured. "Just... Try to calm down and try to show you're calm. He'll be able to smell it on you."

"And then he'd be lured into a false sense of security..." Pitch realized, grinning at Sponge. "That's brilliant! If he's too busy focusing on Dogma, he won't notice us flanking and tagging him with a sedative!"

"You're uh, forgetting the part where I'm a bit of a nervous wreck right now..." Dogma pointed out, motioning to himself as he did so for further emphasis. "There's no way I'll be able to trick Tup... I've never been good at lying to him! He always figures it out!"

"We just need him to believe it for a few seconds." Coric insisted on the matter. "Nothing a few breathing exercises can't sort out... Your body will do the rest for you. You don't even have to talk..."

Clones were infamous for being naturally predisposed to be awful liars. It was something the Kaminoans and Trainers had instilled in them early on. But, sometimes, one out of 25 troopers would come out a natural born deceiver. Which came in handy on occasion, even if it did cause some infighting.

In this case, Dogma was the classical gods awful liar. But if they could get him into a state of calmness, their trap would be set and ready to be sprung. His new alien body just had to believe the lie.

"I.... I'll try..." Dogma relented.

Now all they had to do was find a place where they could easily go unnoticed while having a full visual on both Dogma and Tup. Luckily, there was one such area in this medical facility...

-

When the temperature had gotten sufficiently warm, Tup had wasted no time in entering the building that currently housed both his little brother and his prey. Stalked the halls and climbed the stairs with ears trained on any noise that was not ambient, while sniffing the air on occasion to try to pinpoint the exact location of his targets.

He was seething mad with a rage unknown to sentient kind. Blood boiling with the fury of having his twin taken from him once more, when he'd been sound asleep. His twin who was hurt and needed to be protected now more than ever.

This wicked deed would not go unpunished. Not as long as he had a say in the matter, which he did.

Tup growled as he used both his pincers and all four of his legs to clumsily climb upwards. The steps were too small and the corners too sharp for him to be anything but a graceless bantha in a china shop. His body too altered to move about in tight spaces designed for regular humanoid body-shapes.

Were he not so upset, he might find some humor in the situation. But right now the troublesome ascent was only irritating him further. Especially when his hips would bump into the railing of the stairs. At least he wasn't boxed in, in a much too tiny lift...

Pausing for a moment, head tilted back as he sampled the air for the scents he was tracking, Tup hummed in thought. This was the right floor. He just had to fumble with the door handle and then he'd be free of these infernally uncomfortable stairs.

And fumble with it he did, as he no longer had opposable thumbs to make this particular task easy for him.

He really wished Dogma were here... Except he was. Just not by his side. Once he'd been rescued he'd happily open doors for him, just as he'd happily finish building their Hive with Cody's aid. Hopefully by now the other Drone had collected all the remaining stragglers...

No one was in sight yet. As he passed the first threshold he knew his prey were hidden away. Somewhere in this... Was it an operating theater of some kind? He assumed so, since the floor plan was a little peculiar. With one big room full of equipment, and a large observation area surrounding it. He could see in through the huge glass windows which he assumed were one way.

Dogma was laying on a table. Bound and prepped for surgery.

The first thing to hit him was rage at the idea that they had been preparing to open up his little brother. His loyal Drone. The second was that it felt odd that they'd taken so long to do so... But then, Dogma was right there... And he smelled...

Shaking his head, Tup stalked forward. Trying to find a way in so that he could have a proper look (and sniff) of his brother. What he could smell from here was a sweet calmness that spurred him forward. His little brother was just there, so easily at his reach, unguarded and in no danger.

Finding a door, Tup cautiously stood between thresholds. Staring. Scrutinizing.

Dogma was awake and aware. Staring back at him. Face neutral as it should be.

But his sweet scent was slowly souring in a very familiar way that made Tup's own expression harden, and his mandibles click together as he snarled.

Dogma was afraid of Tup. This was a trap.

SCREEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!!!!!

Turning suddenly, Tup took hold of the foolish medic that had thought he'd had the upper-hand. Taking great delight in the disgustingly sour surge of terror that he could smell coming off of him, as Tup's pincers easily pinned him against the wall.

Arms and legs trapped in each one of Tup's upper limbs.

In fact, he was so delighted by Kix's mistake, that he made sure to flash a sharp grin as two of his hidden tendrils pushed out of his sides and began to wrap around his pathetic little neck.

Cutting off his air supply.

"I̵d̶i̸o̵t̶.̵.̴.̴" He hissed, tail wagging excitedly as he watched Kix's face begin to change color. He was going to enjoy watching the life leave his eyes.

"Tup! Don't!" He looked back, startled by Dogma suddenly calling out to him. "Put him down! Please!"

Rather than do as asked, Tup began to squeeze harder. The flames of his rage rekindled.

"W̷h̷a̴t̶ ̵d̴i̸d̵ ̶y̷o̶u̷ ̵d̸o̵ ̴t̸o̴ ̴m̸y̶ ̴D̴r̸o̵n̵e̶,̵ ̶y̶o̶u̵ ̴d̴i̶s̷g̴u̸s̵t̶i̵n̵g̷ ̴w̶e̷a̵k̷l̵i̴n̵g̷?̵!̴" He'd make them all pay. One by one! They'd all suffer great--

"I̷ ̶S̵A̷I̶D̴ ̴S̸T̴O̷P̸!̵" without warning, something tackled him from the back, causing Tup to drop his prey and stumble and stagger.

Looking back again, to his horror, Dogma had been the one to attack him. His brother... Turned against him...

Now much more upset than before, Tup couldn't help the roar that escaped him as he charged forward. Bad Drones deserved to be taught a lesson. A very violent bloody lesson.

Even if it hurt him to cause harm to his twin...

His... He wanted to... He wanted to hurt Dogma? He wanted to kill him? That wasn't... That couldn't be right... He'd never... He... He...

K̷i̷l̶l̷.̸ ̸K̷i̷l̷l̷ ̷t̵h̵e̸ ̶b̵a̸d̷ ̴D̵r̶o̶n̸e̵.̴ ̸K̴i̶l̶l̷ ̵t̸h̵e̴m̷ ̸a̸l̶l̴.̶ ̷K̶I̵L̵L̴!̷!̷!̴

Roaring in rage, fear and confusion, Tup grappled with Dogma. The two insectoids fighting ferociously against one another, while the others watched on in horror at the unexpected turn of events.

On the floor, Kix tried to regain his breath while massaging his achingly sore throat. The grip Tup had had on him so strong he'd thought the mutated rookie was going to snap his neck. Fortunately Dogma had intervened. And was still intervening.

There was no time to sit around and recuperate. Kix had to administer the sedative otherwise they'd all be dead. Especially now that Tup looked to be completely lost to some kind of uncontrollable frenzy. One where even Dogma was a target.

Pushing himself back onto his feet, Kix waited for the right opportunity to strike.

Then, when he saw his chance, he rushed forward and leapt up onto the specialist's back. He grabbed on for dear life as the other bucked wildly and tried to throw him off, keeping a firm grip ever as he moved closer to his little brother's neck.

It was surprisingly easy to stab the needle into his neck, all things considered...

[botanical-journal]

Alternative Disease Control in Organic Agriculture

The text discusses the growing concern within society regarding the environmental impacts of agriculture, particularly related to the use of pesticides and contamination of the food chain. This concern has led to significant changes in the agricultural landscape. In recent years, market segments have begun to demand differentiated products, such as those cultivated without pesticides or those that carry certification seals ensuring sustainable practices. This societal pressure has resulted in the development of more sustainable farming systems that aim to reduce reliance on chemical products

The concept of sustainable agriculture is highlighted as promoting responsible management of natural resources, meeting the needs of present and future generations without degrading the environment. This approach shifts the priorities of traditional agricultural systems, seeking a balance between food production and environmental preservation. It encourages the use of biological processes and a reduction in the consumption of energy inputs. Alternative agricultural systems are presented as a viable option to conventional methods, focusing on natural interactions. They emphasize the management of biological relationships, such as the interactions between pests and their predators, as well as natural processes like biological nitrogen fixation, rather than relying solely on chemical products. The goal is to strengthen the essential biological interactions for agricultural production instead of simplifying them. The text also mentions one of the main challenges of sustainable agriculture: the control of diseases, pests, and invasive plants.

Many techniques used to minimize phytosanitary damage can, paradoxically, lead to environmental contamination or generate changes that compromise the sustainability of the agroecosystem, highlighting the complexity and challenges involved in transitioning to more sustainable practices.

- Alternative Products Produced or Obtained in the Brazilian Market.

Initially, before the widespread availability of pesticides, farmers used natural products sourced from their surroundings or extracted from their own land. These traditional methods, which include more natural and localized techniques, have been almost completely abandoned with the popularization of pesticides, which became the norm for pest and disease control.

Today, with the growing awareness of the negative effects of pesticides on the environment and health, society is demanding a reduction in their use. This has encouraged research into more sustainable alternatives, many of which are methods that farmers employed decades ago. The text provides examples of products and techniques that can be used as alternatives to pesticides, such as:

Raw milk - for controlling powdery mildew (a fungal disease).

Biofertilizers - to prevent plant diseases.

Salts - for controlling powdery mildew.

Soil solarization - which uses solar heat to eliminate soil pathogens.

Solar collectors - for disinfecting substrates used in seedling production.

These practices aim to recover and value agricultural methods that are less harmful to the environment, reflecting a shift toward more sustainable agriculture.

- Alternative Products: Future Adoption!

Despite the existence of environmental legislation focused on eco-development, there are still significant limitations in promoting alternative and ecologically sustainable agricultural practices. Although there are many technical and scientific contributions on methods such as biological pest control, crop rotation, use of crop residues, genetic improvement, intercropping, physical control, and the use of natural products, government support to encourage these practices remains insufficient. Initiatives are considered limited, which restricts the adoption of more sustainable approaches.

Additionally, the text mentions that the increased use of alternative techniques, including pesticides, which have been part of the modernization of Brazilian agriculture since the 1960s, depends on effective public policies that promote these more sustainable practices. In summary, the author criticizes the lack of a robust agricultural policy that genuinely encourages the transition to more sustainable agricultural practices.

The text highlights that, in many situations, farmers do not apply the true philosophy of IPM (Integrated Pest Management), which advocates for the combination of different control methods (such as biological, cultural, and physical). Research on IPM began in the 1970s in Brazil, resulting in promising discoveries. However, despite these advances, IPM is still not widely adopted by farmers. In some cases, alternative practices are used to control certain pests and diseases, but not in a consistent or integrated manner. Instead, many still opt to use various types of pesticides, which goes against the principle of an integrated and sustainable approach. This suggests a resistance or difficulty in transitioning to practices that truly integrate different management strategies.

The text explains why the adoption of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and alternative methods is limited among farmers. Three main factors are highlighted:

Cultural Practices of Farmers: Many farmers predominantly use pesticides due to their ease of use and effectiveness, combined with a lack of efficient public assistance for implementing IPM.

Training of Agricultural Technicians: The training of agricultural extension technicians often focuses on recommending pesticides as solutions, rather than addressing the underlying causes of pest and disease outbreaks or exploring existing alternatives.

Influence of the Pesticide Industry: The pesticide industry plays a significant role in providing technical assistance to farmers who adopt modern agricultural practices. Their representatives often promote pesticide use rather than integrated methods, reinforcing a culture of dependency on chemical products.

These factors collectively hinder the widespread implementation of IPM and sustainable practices in agriculture.

In the end, the text discusses the responsibility of research institutions and funding agencies in the low adoption of alternative techniques for controlling phytosanitary problems. A survey of articles published in the journals Summa Phytopathologica and Fitopatologia Brasileira revealed that alternative control practices, such as biological, physical, and cultural methods, represent only 9% and 5% of the articles, respectively. These figures, which consider 28 volumes of the first journal and 27 of the second, indicate that there is still a very small number of plant pathologists in Brazil focusing on alternative control.

The author argues that it is necessary to increase the number of specialists in this area so that plant pathology can make a more significant contribution to the environmental and social sustainability of agriculture in Brazil. The text also emphasizes that simply replacing fungicides with alternatives is not enough to ensure more sustainable agriculture. It is essential to understand the structure and functioning of the agroecosystem as a whole and to redesign production systems to make them truly sustainable. The author notes that various examples of sustainable practices have been presented to the agricultural community, suggesting that education and awareness are key to promoting effective changes.az