bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SHORTENING OF TELOMERE LENGTH MAY BE ASSOCIATED WITH INFLAMMATORY CYTOKINES IN PATIENTS WITH BIPOLAR DISORDER
Authors: Wang *Tzu-Yun , Wang Shao-Ming , Chang Yun-Hsuan , Lu Ru-Band , Chang Hui Hua
Published: February 2025

Background

Bipolar disorder (BD) is hypothesized to be associated with accelerated biological aging. Telomere length (TL) is a biomarker of aging, and although TL reduces with each cell division, the shortening rate may be affected by allostatic load and inflammation. We hypothesized that BD patients may have TL shortening and levels of inflammatory markers may be associated with TL.

Aims & Objectives

We aimed to investigate whether there is a shortening of TL in BD patients and the association between TL shortening and inflammatory markers.

Method

BD patients and healthy controls (HC) were recruited. The leukocyte TL and plasma levels of cytokines [tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-8, IL-6, IL-10, transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1] and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was assessed.

Results

One hundred thirty-seven BD patients and 118 HC were enrolled. The TL was not significantly different between BD and HC after covarying for potential confounding factors (P =0.79). The TL was significantly negatively associated with age (β= -0.006, P<0.001). In addition, the log TNF-α levels were significantly negatively associated with the TL (β=-0.42, P=0.009), whether in BD (β=-1.59, P=0.02) or in HC (β=-0.34, P=0.05).

Discussion & Conclusion

We found a significant association between TNF-α levels and TL shortening in both BD patients and HC participants. However, TL shortening was not found in BD patients. Further enlargement of the sample size and controlling for the heterogeneity of BD participants will be needed.
SOCIAL INTERACTION SUPPRESSES COCAINE RELAPSE BY REGULATING DAERGIC ENGRAM INPUT OF VENTRAL TEGMENTAL AREA
Authors: Zheng *Wei , Lu Tangsheng , Xue Yanxue , Lu Lin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Addiction is a chronic relapsing brain disease, characterized by a high susceptibility to relapse once returns to the original living environment even after an extended period of abstinence. Positive social interactions are believed to have therapeutic potential in managing drug addiction by shifting the drug reward back onto social reward. However, the neural mechanisms underlying social interaction’ s therapeutic effects against relapse are poorly understood. The dopamine (DA) activity of Ventral tegmental area (VTA) mediates both the reinforcing properties of social reward and drugs of abuse. Therefore, we hypothesized that distinct subpopulations of DAergic neurons in the VTA may play different roles in the process of social anti-relapse.

Methods

We employed the cocaine self- administration as a relapse model in rats, and combined Targeted Recombination in Active Populations (TRAP), immunofluorescence, fiber photometry recording, and chemical genetics to explore the involvement of subpopulations of DAergic neurons during social interaction-mediated relapse prevention.

Results

We found that social interaction significantly inhibited the spontaneous recovery of cocaine seeking after cocaine self-administration extinction training in rats. While both social interaction and relapse of cocaine seeking reliably elicited obvious Ca2+ level increase in the TH neurons of VTA and induced DA relapse in nucleus accumbens (NAc), both the increase of Ca2+ level in the TH neurons of VTA and DA release in NAc induced by active cocaine relapse were significantly reduced after social interaction. Furthermore, the subpopulations of DAergic neurons in the VTA which encoded social interaction and relapse were distinct and anatomically segregated. Lastly, capturing and reactivating the specific subpopulation of DAergic neurons in the VTA encoding social interaction significantly inhibited cocaine relapse.

Conclusion

This study provided the evidence that distinct subpopulations of DAergic neurons in the VTA are involved in social interaction and relapse, and selective activation of the memory engram of social interaction in the VTA effectively inhibited drug relapse. Future studies will explore the input of DAergic neurons engram in the process of social interaction’ s therapeutic effects against cocaine relapse by combining mini scope, cross-synaptic engram tracer, brain patch clamp, and optogenetic, and reveal the circuitry mechanism of natural reward and drug reward interaction.
MEMORY CONSOLIDATION DRIVES THE ENHANCEMENT OF REMOTE COCAINE MEMORY VIA PREFRONTAL CIRCUIT
Authors: Xiaoxing *Liu , Tangsheng Lu , Ying Han , Lin Lu
Published: February 2025

Background

Forming memories are essential for survival, guiding our behaviors based on past experience. The expression of most these memories typically gradually weakens over time as an adaptive process of forgetting. Whereas, in some types of maladaptive memories, such as the drug-cue associated memories which account for the risk of drug relapse, their expression is progressively enhanced from recent memory to remote during prolonged time.

Aims & Objectives

To investigate the neural circuit underpinnings of the enhancement of remote cocaine-cue associated memory during abstinence.

Method

We used cocaine self-administration model in rats, together with Ca2+ imaging, immunofluorence, chemogenetic interventions, circuit tracing, and three-dimensional reconstruction of dendritic spine morphologies.

Results

We found a progressive increase in the response of prelimbic cortex (PrL) CaMKⅡ neurons to cues during 30-day abstinence. Dendritic spine maturation in the PrL relied on the basolateral amygdala (BLA) input during the early period of consolidation, and chronic inhibition of BLA-PrL circuit during abstinence day 1 to 14 could prevent cocaine seeking on day 30.

Discussion & Conclusion

These findings indicate that memory consolidation drives the enhancement of remote cocaine memory through a time-dependently increase in activity and maturation of PrL CaMKⅡ neurons receiving a sustained BLA input. We propose that the BLA may function as a cache that integrates the strong association between cocaine and related cues, and during system consolidation BLA can convey this information to PrL for long-term storage. Remarkably, during the early period post- training, more mature and stable dendritic spine plasticity which occurred in PrL neurons receiving BLA input possibly makes the association information abnormally consolidated, inducing stronger response when cue exposure at remote time and leading to enhancement of remote cocaine memory.
PRAMIPEXOLE AS A TARGETED ADJUNCTIVE TREATMENT FOR ANHEDONIA IN DEPRESSION: RESULTS FROM AN EXPLORATORY PILOT STUDY
Authors: Lindahl *Jesper Henrik , Ventorp Filip , Van Westen Danielle , Jensen Jimmy , Björkstrand Johannes , Lindqvist Daniel
Published: February 2025

Background

Anhedonia is a common persisting state among depressed patients, associated with treatment resistance and increased loss of function. There are currently no specific and effective treatments for anhedonia. Previous trials have indicated that dopamine agonist pramipexole is efficacious for treating depression, but more data is needed for clinical implementation. Given its mechanism of action, pramipexole might be efficacious for a depression subtype characterized by significant anhedonia and lack of motivation, symptoms associated with dopaminergic hypofunction.

Aims and Objectives

The objective was to investigate feasibility and target engagement of high dose, add on pramipexole treatment in anhedonic depression, as well as exploring biomarkers as predictors of treatment response, using a transdiagnostic design and several indicators of treatment efficacy.

Method

Twelve patients with unipolar or bipolar, moderate to severe depression, and significant anhedonia were included in this open label pilot study. All patients were on a stable dose of antidepressants and or mood stabilizers and received ten weeks of adjunctive pramipexole titrated to a maximum dose of 4,5 mg salt per day. Patients were rated with the Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale, the Montgomery Asberg Depression Rating and the Snaith Hamilton Pleasure Scale. Pre and post treatment analyses of high sensitivity C reactive protein were performed. Related Samples Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to investigate changes in symptom severity and hsCRP. Eight patients underwent fMRI pre and post treatment, and the monetary incentive delay task was used to investigate the effect on striatal activity during reward anticipation.

Results

DARS, MADRS and SHAPS scores all improved significantly over ten weeks of pramipexole treatment, p under 0,01. Mean levels of hs CRP decreased significantly over the course of treatment from mean 3,56 mg per litre at baseline to 2,61 mg per litre at endpoint, p under 0,01. There were significant treatment associated increases in reward related activity in several brain areas including the right lateral putamen, anterior left caudate, left posterior putamen, right dorsal caudate, left anterior putamen, and the right nucleus accumbens.

Discussion and Conclusion

This is the first study to suggest efficacy and target engagement of pramipexole in anhedonic depression and these preliminary findings could help inform future large-scale randomized controlled trials to test predictors of treatment response, advancing the field of precision psychiatry.

References

1.Howland 2008

2.Argyropoulos and Nutt 2013

3.Pelizza and Ferrari A 2009

4.Uher et al 2012

5.Barone et al 2010

6.Tundo et al 2019

7.Fawcett et al 2016

8.Treadway et al 2019
FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH LONGITUDINAL DECREASE IN DOSES OF BENZODIAZEPINE HYPNOTICS IN PATIENTS WITH DEPRESSIVE DISORDERS
Authors: Sakai *Yoshiyuki , Ishii Junpei , Kodaka Fumitoshi , Mori Keisuke , Kobayashi Tamayo , Kameyama Hiroshi , Yamadera Wataru , Shigeta Masahiro
Published: February 2025

Background

The development of orexin receptor antagonists (ORAs) has become an alternative choice of pharmacotherapy for patients with sleep disorders. A previous prescription database (JP4DR) survey of patients who visited the Department of Psychiatry, The Jikei University Hospital in 2018 and 2020 showed a significant decrease in the diazepam equivalent dose of benzodiazepine (BZ) hypnotics in patients with psychiatric disorders. However, the factors associated with the decrease in patients with depressive disorders remain unclear. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Jikei University School of Medicine.

Aims and Objectives

In the present study, we investigated the factors associated with the decrease in the dose of BZ hypnotics in patients with depressive disorders.

Method

We selected patients from the prescription database who visited the outpatient section of Department of Psychiatry, Jikei University Hospital from December 1 to 31, 2018 and from December 1 to 31, 2021. These patients were diagnosed with ICD-10 codes F32 (depressive episode) and F33 (recurrent depressive disorder). We compare doses of diazepam equivalents of BZ hypnotics, imipramine equivalent doses of antidepressants, and the doses of ORAs in 2018 and 2021. A multiple regression analysis was performed to examine the association of longitudinal changes in diazepam equivalent doses of BZ hypnotics between 2018 and 2021 with changes in the equivalent dose of imipramine, the dose of suvorexant, and the dose of lemborexant. The significance level was set at 5%.

Results

877 patients with psychiatric disorders had visit the Department of Psychiatry, Jikei University Hospital on both December 1-31, 2018 and 2021. Of those, 246 patients with F32 (depressive episode) and F33 (recurrent depressive disorder) were included in the analysis. The diazepam equivalent doses of BZ hypnotics decreased significantly between 2018 and 2021 (p = 0.01). Multiple regression analysis showed that a decrease in imipramine equivalents of antidepressants was associated with a decrease in BZ hypnotics (p<0.01).

Discussion and Conclusion

The decrease in the diazepam equivalent dose of BZ hypnotics was significantly associated with the decrease in the imipramine equivalent dose of antidepressants. It is suggested that improvement in depressive symptoms and comorbid insomnia led to the decrease in antidepressant medication.
TREATMENT FOR ATTENTION-DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD) DRUG NORMALIZES AIS LENGTH ABNORMALITY ALONG WITH HYPERACTIVITY IN PITUITARY ADENYLATE CYCLASE-ACTIVATING POLYPEPTIDE (PACAP)-DEFICIENT MICE
Authors: Iwahashi *Misaki , Yoshimura Takeshi , Harigai Wakana , Takuma Kazuhiro , Hashimoto Hitoshi , Katayama Taiichi , Hayata-Takano Atsuko
Published: February 2025

Background

Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder (NDD) with three characteristics: hyperactivity, inattention, and impulsivity. Although the number of patients with ADHD has increased in recent years, its pathology remains unclear. The axon initial segment (AIS) is a region of the proximal axon, which is responsible for information output by generating action potentials. Recent studies have shown that the structure of AIS can be altered based on the input to the neuronal circuit, and the alteration can impact neural activity. We have previously observed an abnormality of AIS length in rodent models of ADHD and autism spectrum disorder. However, the relationship between AIS length abnormality and pathology of NDDs is still unknown.

Aims & Objectives

In this study, we examined whether PACAP-deficient (PACAP–/–) mice, which display ADHD-like behaviors show AIS length abnormalities. Further, we examined the effects of atomoxetine (ATX), an ADHD drug, on the AIS length in PACAP–/– mice.

Method

Brain sections were prepared from both PACAP–/– and wild-type mice and immunohistochemically stained with anti-Ankyrin-G antibody to stain AIS, and then the three-dimensional length of each AIS was traced and measured using Imaris software. We administered ATX dose or saline to both mice for 2 weeks. After that, we conducted the open field test, and then by immunohistochemical staining of mouse brain sections with anti-Ankyrin-G antibody to stain the AIS.

Results & Discussion

PACAP–/– mice exhibited abnormal Ankyrin-G-stained AIS lengths in layer 2/3 neurons of the S1BF. In addition, repeated ATX treatment effectively normalized abnormal AIS length in PACAP–/– mice along with improvement of hyperactivity. These results suggest that AIS abnormalities are one of the phenotypes of ADHD. This study is the first piece of evidence to indicate drug-mediated improvement in AIS length in the brains of ADHD animal models. Our findings provide novel insight into the potential contribution of the AIS to the pathology of NDDs.

References

1)Iwahashi et al., (2023) J Pharmacol Sci. 153(3):175-182.
RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN SCHIZOPHRENIA SEVERITY AND INFLAMMATORY BIOMARKER: NEUTROPHIL/LYMPHOCYTE RATIO, MONOCYTE/LYMPHOCYTE RATIO, PLATELET/LYMPHOCYTE RATIO
Authors: Kim *Ho Chan , Kim Seong Hwan
Published: February 2025

Background

Neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte/lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR) are inflammatory biomarkers. Potential of these inflammatory biomarkers as state marker of schizophrenia severity is controversial.

Aims & Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and schizophrenia severity.

Method

From January 2010 to June 2020, the medical records of schizophrenia patients admitted to Kosin University Gospel Hospital were retrospectively examined and 91 patients who met the inclusion criteria were selected as the subjects of the study. The Korean version of the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS-KV) was used to assess schizophrenia symptom severity and divided into PANSS- KV total score (PANSS-T), PANSS-KV positive syndrome subscale (PANSS-P), PANSS-KV negative syndrome subscale (PANSS-N), PANSS-KV general psychopathology subscale (PANSS-G).

Results

In 91 subjects, 40 were men and 51 were women. We found no significant relationship between sex, age, number of hospitalization and NLR, MLR, PLR. Patients with higher NLR, MLR, PLR had higher PANSS-T scores. Positive correlation between NLR, MLR, PLR and PANSS-N, PANSS-G was demonstrated. There was no significant correlation between NLR, MLR, PLR and PANSS-P.

Discussion & Conclusion

We investigate the possibility of inflammatory biomarkers as state markers of schizophrenia symptom severity. A well-designed prospective study involving a larger cohort is needed in the future.
EFFECT OF SUB-CHRONIC INTERLEUKIN-17A ADMINISTRATION FOR MICE ON PREPULSE INHIBITION TEST USING ACOUSTIC STARTLE STIMULI
Authors: Wakabayashi *Chisato , Kunugi Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Background

It is well known that proinflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and IL-17A concentration is increased in the plasma of schizophrenic patients. These cytokines have been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia which often shows sensorimotor gating abnormalities. However, the mechanisms underlying the involvement of these cytokines have not yet well been studied.

Aims & Objectives

The aim of this study is to examine whether IL-17A induces sensorimotor gating deficits in mice. We also examined whether IL-17A administration affected GSK3α/β protein level or phosphorylation in mouse striatum.

Method

Recombinant mouse IL-17A (low-dose: 0.5 ng/mL and high-dose: 50 ng/mL with 10 μ L/g mouse body weight, respectively) or vehicle was intraperitoneally administered into C57BL/6 male mice 10 times in 3 weeks (sub-chronic administration). Prepulse inhibition (PPI) test using acoustic startle stimulus was conducted 4 weeks after the final IL-17A administration. We evaluated the effect of IL-17A administration on protein level or phosphorylation of GSK3α/β in the striatum by Western blot analysis.

Results

Sub-chronic IL-17Administration induced significant PPI deficits even at 4 weeks later. The deterioration of PPI was observed with dose dependent. Low-dose of IL-17A administration significantly decreased both GSK3α (Ser21) and GSK3β (Ser9) phosphorylation in mouse striatum. There was no significant alteration of GSK3α/β protein levels except for GSK3α in low-dose IL-17A administration group. High-dose of IL-17A, however, did not any alteration of GSK3α/β phosphorylation or protein level in striatum.

Discussion & Conclusion

We demonstrated for the first time that sub-chronic IL-17A administration induced PPI disruption. This result means that the previous exposure to IL-17A may well induce subsequent PPI reduction in the future. The confusing result was that high- and low-dose of IL-17A showed different effect in phosphorylation or protein level of GSK3α/β at the striatum. We considered the existence of other molecules that might be selectively affected in a high doses IL-17 environment. Further analysis including other brain regions will be needed.

This study was accepted for publication in the Neuropsychopharmacology Reports journal this year.

References

Wakabayashi C, Kunugi H. Possible involvement of Interleukin-17A in the deterioration of prepulse inhibition on acoustic startle response in mice. Neuropsychopharmacol Rep, 43(3):365–372 (2023)
BREXPIPRAZOLE AS ADJUNCTIVE THERAPY FOR BORDERLINE PERSONALITY DISORDER : A CASE REPORT
Authors: Danasasmita *Febrianti Santiardi
Published: February 2025

Background

Borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a severe, difficult-to-treat psychiatric disorder that causes significant emotional distress as well as a significant financial burden on health-care systems.

BPD is distinguished by a pervasive pattern of affective instability, difficulty with impulse control, and aggressive outbursts. Although psychotherapy has been shown to reduce BPD symptoms, not all patients can tolerate it. Medication research is ongoing, but no drug has been approved by FDA for the treatment of BPD. 1-2Brexpiprazole is a novel serotonin-dopamine activity modulator with partial agonist activity at 5-HT1A and D2/D3 receptors and strong antagonist activity at 5-HT2A, a1B, and a2C adrenergic receptors. Furthermore, given the low rates of side effects reported in clinical trials for other disorders to date, brexpiprazole should be well tolerated in people with BPD. 2-3

Aims & Objectives

The case report discusses the use of brexpiprazole as new generation antipsychotic in reducing BPD’ s symptom.

Method

Miss Z, 20 years old female, university student, reported that she was drunk alcohol excessively to cope with her anxiety. Moreover, she had self-harm behaviour to overcome her negative thought. She felt emptiness and difficult to describe her emotion chronically. She reported low motivation to go to school, unable to enjoy her activity, difficulty of sleep. Furthermore, she reported low self-esteem and perceived burdensomeness. She was afraid of abandoned by her boyfriend. Although her boyfriend had cheated on her, she tried to be with him. That made her self-esteem became worse. Besides her activity as a student, she had a part-time job as a model. She took great care of her weight and appearance. She was given escitalopram 10 mg once daily and brexpiprazole 1 mg half a day. After taking the medication for 8-weeks, her emotion improves. She had good quality of sleep, reduction of self-harm behaviour and came back to school.

Results

Brexpiprazole appears to have some effect on the symptoms of BPD.

Discussion and Conclusion

Although the neurobiology of BPD is not fully understood, it appears to involve dysfunctions in the serotoninergic and dopaminergic systems. Brexpiprazole is partial agonist activity at 5-HT1A and D2/D3 receptors. As a result, they may be uniquely positioned to help with both mood symptoms and reward processing in BPD.

References

1.Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders : DSM-5-TR / American Psychiatric Association. Copyright © 2022 American Psychiatric Association

2.Grant JE, Valle S, Chesivoir E, Ehsan D, Chamberlain SR. A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Brexpiprazole in the Treatment of Borderline Personality Disorder. Br J Psychiatry. 2022 February ; 220(2): 58–63. doi:10.1192/bjp.2021.159.

3.Del Casale A, Bonanni L, Bargagna P, Novelli F, Fiasche F, Paolini M. et al., Current Clinical Psychopharmacology in Borderline Personality Disorder. Curr Neuropharmacol.2021 Oct 18; 19(10): 1760–1779.
COMMENSAL GUT MICROBE MODULATES STRESS-INDUCED GUT DYSMOTILITY THROUGH GUT-DERIVED METABOLITES AND SYMPATHETIC NERVOUS SYSTEM
Authors: Tsai *Yu-Hsuan , Wu Wei-Li
Published: February 2025

Backgroud

Stress is a pivotal environmental risk factor for the development of mental disorders. While the impact of stress can vary among individuals, gut dysmotility is a common characteristic in response to acute stress. Mounting evidence suggests that the commensal microbiota residing in the gut plays a crucial role in modulating gut motility. Recent investigations have highlighted the ability of gut microbiota to influence tryptophan metabolism, thereby impacting gut motility. Moreover, studies investigating the gut-brain axis have revealed that the absence of gut microbiota leads to activation of gut-innervated sympathetic neurons. Intriguingly, our previous research demonstrated that colonization of specific commensal gut bacteria, Enterococcus (E.) faecalis, in microbiome-depleted mice can suppress the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, thereby regulating the release of the stress hormone corticosterone. This pathway exhibits a close association with stress, which has been shown to significantly affect gut motility.

Aims & Objectives

Despite the recognition of the gut microbiota as a crucial regulator of the gut-brain axis, the precise mechanisms through which specific microbes in the intestine remotely influence the HPA axis remain unclear. In this study, we hypothesize that commensal gut microbe modulates stress-induced gut dysmotility via colonic tryptophan metabolism and the sympathetic nervous system.

Method

To investigate this hypothesis, we established an experimental model of acute stress exposure in mice colonized with specific commensal microbes and evaluated their stress response by assessing gut motility.

Results

Our findings indicate that E. faecalis selectively restores gut dysmotility and corticosterone levels following stress exposure, both of which are profoundly disrupted by gut microbiota depletion. Furthermore, metabolomic profiling of serum after microbiota depletion and E. faecalis colonization revealed alterations in metabolites involved in tryptophan and tyrosine metabolisms, accompanied by changes in the expression of key rate-limiting enzymes associated with these pathways. Immunostaining of c-Fos demonstrated that colonization of E. faecalis diminishes neural activity in brain regions implicated in the HPA axis and autonomic nervous system following acute stress exposure, including the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), area postrema (AP), and lateral paragigantocellular reticular nucleus/rostral ventrolateral medulla (LPGi/RVLM). Lastly, administration of E. faecalis to mice with complete microbiome effectively restores stress-induced gut dysmotility.

Discussion & Conclusion

Collectively, our findings provide valuable insights into the intricate mechanisms by which intestinal bacteria influence the host through the gut-brain axis and strongly suggest a novel mechanism through which intestinal commensal bacteria regulate the host's stress response and its subsequent consequences.
A STUDY ON THE REGULATORY STATUS OF PSYCHEDELICS IN KOREA AND THEIR ADMISSIBILITY AS THERAPEUTIC AGENTS
Authors: Sohn *Inki , Jeong Jong-Hyun
Published: February 2025

Background

Korea has strict controls on narcotics. Nonetheless, as the impact of research on the therapeutic use of marijuana, psychedelics, etc. discussions on their medical use are beginning in Korea.

Aims & Objects

The author intends to consider the possibility and necessary steps for allowing the medical use of psychedelics through a comparison of major countries' medical narcotic designation principles and a historical review of the legalization of medical use of marijuana in Korea.

Method

Governance of regulatory agencies for narcotics in Korea was reviewed. Literature related to drug designation criteria in major countries was reviewed. Reviewed the legalization process for medical use of marijuana in South Korea

Results

Compared to major countries, Korea has the strictest drug designation standards. In particular, foreign regulatory cases are the main reference standard. This is similar to the process of determining approval for pharmaceuticals in the Korean Food and Drug Administration. It can be said that the conservative regulatory authority's stance that allows medical use only when all are certified in each country is reflected in the designation of narcotics for medical use. Governance for medical narcotics in Korea is under the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety's drug safety officer and Drug Safety Bureau. Each has an independent decision-making process. Distribution of medical narcotics, which are different from treatment purposes, is the main route of abuse/dependence. In Korea, there is a nationwide surveillance system (patient medication history confirmation system and big data-based surveillance system) for prescribed narcotics drugs, which is a protective factor for abuse/dependence. Through the historical review of the process of legalization and acceptance of medical use of marijuana, which has been designated as a narcotic, but is partially permitted for medical use, prospects for the acceptance process of medical use of psychedelics have been made.

Discussion & Conclusion

Regulatory practices and socio-political conservative tendencies regarding the acceptance of drugs for human use are barriers to the acceptance of psychedelics for medical use. For the relaxation of this regulation, permitting the medical use of hallucinogens in major countries is a prerequisite. However, a national monitoring system for medical narcotic drug use is an advantageous condition for persuading regulatory authorities for the clinical use of psychedelics as therapeutics.
Digital health equity frameworks and key concepts: a scoping review
Authors: Kim Katherine K , Backonja Uba
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Digital health equity, the opportunity for all to engage with digital health tools to support good health outcomes, is an emerging priority across the world. The field of digital health equity would benefit from a comprehensive and systematic understanding of digital health, digital equity, and health equity, with a focus on real-world applications. We conducted a scoping review to identify and describe published frameworks and concepts relevant to digital health equity interventions.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a scoping review of published peer-reviewed literature guided by the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews. We searched 5 databases for frameworks related to or applied to digital health or equity interventions. Using deductive and inductive approaches, we analyzed frameworks and concepts based on the socio-ecological model.

Results

Of the 910 publications initially identified, we included 44 (4.8%) publications in our review that described 42 frameworks that sought to explain the ecosystem of digital and/or health equity, but none were comprehensive. From the frameworks we identified 243 concepts grouped into 43 categories including characteristics of individuals, communities, and organizations; societal context; perceived value of the intervention by and impacts on individuals, community members, and the organization; partnerships; and access to digital health services, in-person services, digital services, and data and information, among others.

Discussion

We suggest a consolidated definition of digital health equity, highlight illustrative frameworks, and suggest concepts that may be needed to enhance digital health equity intervention development and evaluation.

Conclusion

The expanded understanding of frameworks and relevant concepts resulting from this study may inform communities and stakeholders who seek to achieve digital inclusion and digital health equity.
Public health informatics specialists in state and local public health workforce: insights from public health workforce interests and needs survey
Authors: Rajamani Sripriya , Leider Jonathon P , Gunashekar Divya Rupini , Dixon Brian E
Published: February 2025

Objective

Modernizing and strengthening the US public health data and information infrastructure requires a strong public health informatics (PHI) workforce. The study objectives were to characterize existing PHI specialists and assess informatics-related training needs.

Materials and Methods

To examine the PHI workforce, the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey (PH WINS), a nationally representative survey with 44 732 governmental public health (PH) respondents was analyzed. The survey included data from 47 state health agencies-central office, 29 large local health departments (Big Cities Health Coalition members), and 259 other local/regional health departments. Analysis focused on “public health informatics specialist” (PHI), “information system manager/information technology specialist” (IT/IS), “public health science” (PHS), and “clinical and laboratory” (CL) roles.

Results

PHI specialists account for less than 2% of the governmental PH workforce. A majority were female (68%), White (55%), and close to half in 31-50 age category (49%). Most (74%) were in non-supervisory roles and <1% in managerial/executive roles, with less than one-third (29%) earning >$75 000 salary. Skill gaps on informatics-related tasks included: identify appropriate data/information sources; collect valid data for decision making; participate in quality improvement processes; identify evidence-based approaches. The PHI specialists reported lower skill gaps in data/informatics areas when compared to other public health roles (PHS and CL), and this was consistent across state/local settings.

Discussion

Given the scale of work needed for modernization of information systems, PH agencies need more individuals in informatics roles. To attract PHI specialists, better salaries, clear PHI job classifications and permanent PHI workers are needed, which requires sustained investments from federal and state governments.

Conclusion

Efforts to train PHI specialists, recruit and retain them in the governmental public health workforce, and address hiring issues in public health agencies are essential next steps to transform the US public health enterprise.
Increased arterial stiffness and left ventricular remodelling as markers of masked hypertension: findings from the PAMELA population
Authors: Cuspidi Cesare , Facchetti Rita , Gherbesi Elisa , Quarti-Trevano Fosca , Vanoli Jennifer , Mancia Giuseppe , Grassi Guido
Published: February 2025

Background:

The value of the association of arterial stiffness with left ventricular concentric remodelling/left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) assessed by echocardiography, for prediction of masked hypertension defined by office and ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in the general population is largely undefined. We investigated this topic in the participants to the Pressioni Monitorate E Loro Associazioni (PAMELA) study.

Methods:

The study included 272 participants (153 normotensives and 119 with masked hypertension) who attended the second and third survey of the PAMELA study performed after 10 and 25 years from the initial evaluation. Data collection included medical history, physical examination, blood tests, office, ABPM, echocardiographic and Cardio-Ankle Vascular Index (CAVI) measurements.

Results:

Compared to normotensive individuals, participants with masked hypertension were younger, had significantly higher office, home, mean 24-h, day-time, night-time SBP/DBP and heart rate. The likelihood of having masked hypertension, was approximately more than two-fold higher [odds ratio (OR) = 2.29, confidence interval (CI): 1.01–5.31, P = 0.04] in participants with increased CAVI and left ventricular remodelling/LVH compared to their counterparts without organ damage. This association showed a unique value in identifying masked hypertension compared to both isolated markers of organ damage (OR = 1.69, P = 0.15 for increased CAVI and OR = 0.82, P = 0.80 for left ventricular remodelling/LVH), after adjusting for age, sex, office SBP/DBP, antihypertensive treatment and diabetes.

Conclusion:

The present study offers a new piece of evidence of the key value of looking for both vascular and cardiac organ damage to unmask MH and improve its clinical management in the general population.
Three decades of pediatric intoxication trends in Taiwan: A retrospective cohort analysis (1985–2020)
Authors: Lin Chih-Wei , Chen Wei-Yu , Lin Yu-Jia , Tsao Pei-Chen , Lee Yu-Sheng , Juan Chien-Chang , Yang Chen-Chang , Jeng Mei-Jy
Published: February 2025

Background:

Pediatric drug intoxication is a significant public health issue worldwide. The present study aimed to delineate the epidemiology, exposure-related conditions, and outcome severity of pediatric drug intoxication cases in Taiwan for over a 36-year period.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study analyzed pediatric drug intoxication cases registered in Taiwan’s National Poison Control Center (PCC) database between 1985 and 2020. Data on patient demographics, toxic substances, exposure-related conditions, and outcome severity were extracted and analyzed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the findings.

Results:

Altogether, 19,893 pediatric drug intoxication cases were reported. The majority of cases involved boys (54.7%) and the highest percentage of cases occurred in children aged0–2 years (56.4%), but there is a second, relatively lower peak in adolescents, where female cases outnumbered the male cases. Pharmaceuticals were the predominant toxic substances (70.3%), with most drug intoxication cases being acute (97.2%) and occurring at home (88.8%). Witnesses were present in 62.8% of the cases. The outcomes were mostly asymptomatic (51.0%) or involved mild discomfort (34.1%), with severe complications and mortality occurring in 0.76% and in 0.37% of the cases, respectively. Unintentional poisoning accounted for 85.4% of the cases, whereas intentional poisoning was noted in 12.1% of the cases, with the highest rate seen in adolescents aged 15–17 years. Intentional cases mainly involved suicide attempts (68.4%) and predominantly occurred in girls (70.7%).

Conclusion:

This analysis of data obtained from Taiwan’s National PCC database for over 36 years reveals bimodal trends in pediatric drug intoxication, showing high rates in young children due to unintentional exposures and peaks in intentional poisoning among adolescent girls. Pharmaceuticals were the predominant toxic agents. Future efforts should focus on age- and sex-targeted preventions, public education on medication safety, and age-specific interventions.
Work-related factors of low back pain among Indonesian manufacturing workers in Taiwan
Authors: Riyandani Edo , Deng Jou-Fan , Chen Ruey-Yu , Yang Chen-Chang
Published: February 2025

Background:

The manufacturing industry, one of the largest employers of migrant workers in Taiwan, reports a high incidence of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly low back pain (LBP), among its workforce overall. Understanding the prevalence and risk factors of LBP among Indonesian migrant workers, who make up a substantial portion of this workforce, is essential for developing effective preventive programs.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study surveyed Indonesian migrant workers in the manufacturing sector. The Indonesian version of the Oswestry Disability Index was used to assess LBP prevalence and disability levels. The chi-square test was used to evaluate the association between work-related factors and LBP outcomes. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the independent factors associated with LBP, adjusted for other variables.

Results:

According to the LBP disability index, 63.14% of the participants had minimal disability, 29.80% had moderate disability, and 7.05% had severe disability. Mild trunk flexion was associated with a lower risk of LBP disability compared with neutral trunk flexion (OR [95% CI] 0.11 [0.03–0.31], p = 0.01). Among women, lifting less than 25 kg was associated with a lower risk of severe LBP compared with lifting more than 25 kg (OR [95% CI] 0.01 [0.01–0.61], p = 0.03). In men, whole-body vibration was associated with a lower risk of severe LBP compared with no vibration exposure (OR [95% CI] 0.41 [0.19–0.88], p = 0.02).

Conclusion:

Trunk flexion, lifting, and whole-body vibration consistently emerged as significant determinants of LBP disability. More detailed assessments of these factors are necessary to clarify their associations.
Laryngeal mucinous adenocarcinoma in a 45 year old woman: a case report
Authors: Mercado Gabrielle Angela Go , Fang Tuan-Jen , Lee Li-Yu , Santos Marissa Krizelda D.
Published: February 2025

Introduction and importance:

This paper emphasizes on an infrequent case of primary laryngeal mucinous adenocarcinoma. Despite partial laryngectomies being a traditional surgical technique, it is not frequently used in the treatment of laryngeal lesions. We would like to highlight the efficacy of open partial laryngectomy as a viable treatment option in cases of nonsquamous cell carcinoma of the larynx. The use of traditional and modern surgical techniques can aid in the preservation of voice and swallowing functions. This case report has been reported in line with the SCARE Criteria [Sohrabi C, Mathew G, Maria N, Kerwan A, Franchi T, Agha RA. The SCARE 2023 guideline: updating consensus Surgical CAse REport (SCARE) guidelines. Int J Surg Lond Engl. 2023;109(5):1136]

Presentation of the Case:

This paper focuses on a 45 year old female who consulted at a tertiary private hospital. She had no known medical comorbidities or family history of cancer who complained on persistent globus sensation and frequent throat clearing. Her symptoms subjectively were similar to acid reflux but on flexible endoscopy a laryngeal lesion was seen. The initial impression with the additional information gathered from a neck CT scan was that of a cystic lesion. During surgery, no cystic component was seen; tissue samples were sent for biopsy. The biopsy results were signed out as a case of mucinous adenocarcinoma. Given the age and medical status of the patient, an organ preservation surgery was done. Post operatively the patient was able to maintain all swallowing and phonatory capabilities.

Clinical Discussion:

There are currently two reported cases of primary laryngeal mucinous adenocarcinoma. Both cases were located in the supraglottic region presenting with dysphonia and dysphagia. Due to the limited number of cases, there is currently no standardized surgical or medical treatment for the management primary laryngeal mucinous adenocarcinomas.

Conclusion:

Mucinous adenocarcinoma of the larynx is a rare disease usually found as distant metastatic lesions. Primary laryngeal mucinous adenocarcinoma is even more uncommon. To balance the oncological outcomes and life quality is important. We reported a primary laryngeal mucinous laryngeal adenocarcinoma after combined transoral transcervical partial laryngectomy that with good functional and oncological outcomes.
Brunner’s gland hamartoma masquerading as duodenal stricture: a case report
Authors: Adhikari Prabesh , Khanal Bishes , Maharjan Prabir
Published: February 2025

Introduction and importance:

Brunner’s gland hamartoma is an infrequent benign lesion(0.008% incidence) that originates in the submucosa of the duodenum. The increased clinical attention to frequently addressed pathologies such as malignancies, peptic ulcer disease, and adhesions in stricture causation often overshadows such uncommon underlying lesions.

Case Presentation:

56 years-old male presented with a history of progressively worsening symptoms of gastric outlet obstruction, including upper abdominal pain and projectile vomiting for two weeks. The patient had a history of peptic ulcer. Imaging through Contrast Enhanced Computed Tomography scan and endoscopic observations unveiled duodenal stricture. Antrectomy followed by Billroth type-II gastrojejunostomy was performed. Finally, Brunner’s gland hamartoma without dysplasia or malignancy was identified through histopathological evaluation. The patient recovered gradually and was discharged on postoperative day 5 in stable condition.

Clinical Discussion:

Most asymptomatic patients are managed conservatively, whereas a small subset of symptomatic patients with obstruction or bleeding is indicated for surgical or endoscopic resection. Though useful, the utility of advanced imaging techniques and endoscopy often yields inconclusive or benign conclusions. Consistent with our case findings, a definitive diagnosis relies exclusively on tissue biopsy analysis.

Conclusion:

Rare presentation, non-specific clinical manifestations, and unclear etiology makes Brunner’s gland hamartoma an incidental diagnostic finding, often missed during routine investigations.
Food deprivation is associated with telomere elongation during hibernation in a primate
Authors: Blanco Marina B. , Smith Dana L. , Greene Lydia K. , Lin Jue , Klopfer Peter H.
Published: February 2025

Telomeres, the protective ends of chromosomes, progressively shorten due to incomplete mitotic replication and oxidative stress. In some organisms, transient telomere elongation may occur, for example, when individuals have an energy surplus to counter stress-induced life events or when elongating telomeres is a last chance to increase fitness. Mammalian hibernators are good models to test telomere dynamics, as they cycle between prolonged bouts of metabolic depression (torpor) punctuated by short surges to euthermia (arousals). We studied captive fat-tailed dwarf lemurs (
Cheirogaleus medius
), strepsirrhine primate hibernators, that were food-deprived (
n
= 8) or fed daily (
n
= 7) during hibernation (4.5 months). We compared telomere lengths, assayed via qPCR from oral swabs, at five strategic time points that span a full year. Food-deprived subjects underwent multi-day torpor/arousal cycles, lost considerable body mass and elongated telomeres during hibernation but shortened them upon emergence. In contrast, food-provisioned subjects ate daily, lost body mass more slowly, underwent shallower and shorter torpor bouts and experienced little change in telomere lengths during the same periods. Our results highlight a complex relationship between telomere dynamics, energy balance and torpor expression. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the regulation of protective mechanisms in these primate hibernators.
An abundant mutualist can protect corals from multiple stressors
Authors: Renzi Julianna J. , Morton Joseph P. , Bergman Jessica L. , Rowell Devin , Iversen Jr. Edwin S. , Gaskins Leo C. , Hoehne-Diana Juliana , Silliman Brian R.
Published: February 2025

Mutualisms can increase the ability of foundation species to resist individual stressors, but it remains unclear whether mutualisms can also ameliorate co-occurring stressors for habitat-forming species. To examine whether a suspected mutualist could improve foundation species’ resistance to multiple stressors, we tested how a common coral-dwelling crab affected corals exposed to macroalgal contact and physical wounding during a widespread heat stress event using flow-through tanks supplied with seawater from a nearby reef flat. High temperatures on the reef flat, which raised the temperature in our tanks, appeared to trigger rapid tissue loss in experimental corals, but the amount of tissue lost by corals was strongly determined by treatment. Macroalgal contact increased, while the presence of a crab decreased, the amount of tissue lost. Although the effect of wounding was not strong in isolation, when wounding occurred in the presence of a crab, coral tissue loss unexpectedly decreased below that of all other treatments. We propose that wounding increased coral resistance to stress by attracting crabs—a result that appeared supported in a field experiment. These results highlight that mutualisms can interact with stressors in unexpected ways, buffering the effects of both local and global stressors on foundation species.
Touch inhibits cold: non-contact cooling suggests a thermotactile gating mechanism
Authors: Ezquerra Romano Ivan , Chowdhury Maansib , Haggard Patrick
Published: February 2025

Skin stimuli reach the brain via multiple neural channels specific for different stimulus types. These channels interact in the spinal cord, typically through inhibition. Inter-channel interactions can be investigated by selectively stimulating one channel and comparing the sensations that result when another sensory channel is or is not concurrently stimulated. Applying this logic to thermal–mechanical interactions proves difficult, because most existing thermal stimulators involve skin contact. We used a novel non-tactile stimulator for focal cooling (9 mm
2
) by using thermal imaging of skin temperature as a feedback signal to regulate exposure to a dry-ice source. We could then investigate how touch modulates cold sensation by delivering cooling to the human hand dorsum in either the presence or absence of light touch. Across three signal detection experiments, we found that sensitivity to cooling was significantly reduced by touch. This reduction was specific to touch, as it did not occur when presenting auditory signals instead of the tactile input, making explanations based on distraction or attention unlikely. Our findings suggest that touch inhibits cold perception, recalling interactions of touch and pain previously described by Pain Gate Theory.