bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Neurodiversity Paradigm in Psychiatry
Authors: Aftab Awais , Chapman Robert
Published: September 2024

Robert Chapman, PhD, (they/them), is a philosopher in the UK, an Assistant Professor in Critical Neurodiversity Studies at the Institute for Medical Humanities at Durham University in the United Kingdom, and the author of Empire of Normality (Pluto Press, 2023). They have published widely on issues in philosophy of disability, the ethics of autism, and critical neurodiversity studies. The neurodiversity perspective and sister movements such as Mad Pride centre the voices of mad and neurodivergent individuals and facilitate a dialogue that enables collective self-reflection on the relational nature of dysfunction and disability. Chapman talks about the origins and history of the neurodiversity movement, its relationship to psychiatry, how the movement forces us to rethink long-standing medical assumptions and criticisms directed at the ideas, and why the neurodiversity perspective is in opposition to Szaszian critiques of psychiatry.
Psychiatric Disorders as an Imperfect Community
Authors: Aftab Awais , Zachar Peter
Published: September 2024

Peter Zachar, PhD, is an Ida Belle Young Research Professor of Psychology at Auburn University Montgomery, Montgomery, AL. He was President of the Association for the Advancement of Philosophy and Psychiatry from 2016 to 2020. He is the author of Psychological Concepts and Biological Psychiatry: A Philosophical Analysis (John Benjamins, 2000) and A Metaphysics of Psychopathology (MIT Press, 2014). Zachar challenges the conceptualization of psychiatric disorders as ‘natural kinds’: entities existing in nature that can be defined in terms of essences, that is, unique and intrinsic properties that are necessary and sufficient. Instead, he argues for the notion of ‘practical kinds’: stable patterns of phenomena that we can identify and classify in light of our scientific goals and interests. This interview explores the notion of scientifically inspired pragmatism and its application to psychiatric classification, critique of essentialist thinking in psychiatry, and the notion of the ‘imperfect community’.
Beyond Pragmatism in Psychiatry
Authors: Aftab Awais , Ghaemi S. Nassir
Published: September 2024

S. Nassir Ghaemi, MD, MPH, is a psychiatrist with expertise in mood illnesses and training in philosophy and public health. He is Professor of Psychiatry at Tufts University and Lecturer in Psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, and also has worked in clinical drug discovery research in psychiatry at Novartis Institutes for Biomedical Research in Cambridge, MA. He is the author of multiple books including Clinical Psychopharmacology (Oxford University Press, 2019), The Concepts of Psychiatry (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2003), The Rise and Fall of the Biopsychosocial Model (Johns Hopkins University Press, 2009), and A First-Rate Madness (Penguin, 2011). This interview explores his views on depression, antidepressants, the biopsychosocial model, DSM, diagnostic validity, and many other conceptual issues of concern to the field. A common refrain in his work is that psychiatry has lost its way by pursuing a putatively atheoretical nosology for understanding mental illness in the form of DSM and by prioritizing pragmatic considerations over scientific evidence.
Psychiatry and the Long View
Authors: Aftab Awais , Summergrad Paul
Published: September 2024

Paul Summergrad, MD, is Dr Frances S. Arkin Professor and Chairman of the Department of Psychiatry, Professor of Psychiatry and Medicine at Tufts University School of Medicine, and Psychiatrist-in-Chief at Tufts Medical Center. Summergrad served as the 141st president of the American Psychiatric Association from 2014 to 2015. He is the lead editor of the Textbook of Medical Psychiatry (American Psychiatric Association Publishing, 2020). Summergrad possesses an in-depth knowledge of psychiatry’s history, an appreciation of its pluralistic roots in medicine as well as psychoanalysis, and a preference for taking the long view of psychiatry’s development as a field. This interview explores his intellectual development, his views on psychiatry’s identity, and the challenges facing the medical model and psychiatric classification.
Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Disease Burden
Authors: Schillerstrom Jason E. , Benavente Kimberly S. , Velazquez-Negron Ivelisse M.
Published: September 2024

The World Health Organization estimates there are 55 million people living with dementia, with 10 million new cases every year. Population growth and increased longevity, coupled with persisting poor education systems and poverty, are driving this pandemic. Non-modifiable risk factors for dementia include age, sex, and genetics, of which age is the strongest. The incidence of dementia doubles every 5 years from age 65, regardless of world region or severity. Wealthier countries will benefit from advanced medical care, preventing and treating depression, hearing loss, and cardiovascular disease, which are the leading modifiable risk factors for dementia. Until a cure is found, the costs will be high. Caregivers will suffer and global costs will exceed $1.3 trillion.
Neurologic Exam
Authors: Anil Sethulakshmi Sreevalsam , Ratnakaran Badr
Published: September 2024

A neurological examination is essential in the assessment of patients with neurocognitive disorders. The neurological examination can help identify neurological signs related to specific neurological diseases and consider differential diagnosis for the presenting neurological signs and symptoms. Various neurological signs can point to the diagnosis of different types of dementia. Understanding the severity of neurological deficits can help understand the disabilities faced by the patients and the impact on their quality of life. Identifying treatable neurological deficits, like hearing loss, can help with reducing the burden of the deficits. It is also necessary to understand neurological deficits related to normal aging so that unnecessary interventions are not undertaken.
Pharmacological Treatment
Authors: Fernandes Deanna C. , Cheong Josepha A.
Published: September 2024

A vast array of literature exists on the subject of therapeutic options used to treat neurocognitive disorders such as dementia. Further published updates are necessary to keep pace within this expanding field being treated worldwide. In this chapter, 5 of the most up-to-date medication classes will be summarized with background analyses of this body of literature. Other coexisting medical conditions and factors that may complicate therapeutic selections will also be discussed. Current dosing recommendations, adverse events, and pharmacokinetic profiles will also be provided for reference with the purpose of providing a broad guidance for prescribing practices among the older adult population.
The Declaration of Geneva
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: The Declaration of Geneva is a pledge taken by healthcare professionals at many healthcare school graduations. It emphasizes the importance of serving humanity, putting the patient’s health and well-being first, respecting patient autonomy and dignity, maintaining respect for human life, and maintaining professional confidentiality. The Declaration also requires practitioners to maintain good healthcare practice, respect colleagues and students, share healthcare knowledge, and not violate human rights and civil liberties. The pledge is made freely and solemnly in the healthcare professional’s honor. The Declaration serves as a reminder of the values and principles that underpin the healthcare profession, inspiring generations of practitioners to provide compassionate, patient-centered care while respecting human rights and civil liberties.
Confidentiality
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Confidentiality has been a central principle of the healthcare profession since before the Hippocratic Oath. Patients need to trust that their healthcare information will be kept confidential to be willing to seek care and communicate with their practitioner. This information, known as privileged communication and protected health information, should only be disclosed with the patient’s or proxy’s explicit consent or as required by law. The beneficence (do good) principle is exemplified through confidentiality, allowing for better care. The principle of nonmaleficence (do no harm) is also exemplified, as failing to keep confidentiality could harm the patient and the healthcare profession. The principle of justice (be fair) is demonstrated through laws such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 that protect privacy and healthcare record confidentiality. There are exceptions to confidentiality, such as when it would cause harm or is required by law.
Contraception
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: In 1977, the U.S. Supreme Court established the constitutional right for all citizens, including minors, to use contraceptives based on the due process clause of the 14th Amendment. Patient autonomy is a fundamental right, and minors have the right to choose contraception without parental consent. Practitioners are obligated to respect the minor’s choice and provide contraception per the principles of beneficence (do good) and nonmaleficence (do no harm). Not providing access to contraception would violate the principle of nonmaleficence. Although it is healthcare best practice to communicate with the minor’s parent(s) about contraceptives, the principle of justice requires a fair distribution of benefits and burdens, and denying minors access to contraception would be an unfair burden. Therefore, the correct response for a practitioner regarding contraception or prenatal care of a minor is to provide access and encourage the minor to discuss the matter with their parent(s).
Financial Disclosures
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Abstract: Financial disclosures of conflicts of interest are crucial in the healthcare field because they can influence a practitioner’s clinical judgment, potentially compromising patient trust and the process of informed consent. The failure to provide such disclosures undermines the patient–practitioner relationship and violates the principles of beneficence (do good), nonmaleficence (do no harm), and justice (be fair). Legal, institutional, and professional mandates require financial and conflict of interest disclosures for publications in healthcare journals, as well as for lifelong learning. This includes but is not limited to continuing healthcare education credits, continuing nursing education credits, continuing pharmacy education credits, continuing dental education credits, continuing education units, maintenance of certification points, performance improvement continuing healthcare education, continuing professional development points, and quality improvement points. Practitioners and healthcare providers must consistently disclose any financial conflict of interest, thereby maintaining transparency and trust.
Research and Clinical Equipoise
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

Clinical equipoise exists when there is no empirical evidence for the superiority of one treatment arm over the others in a therapeutic randomized clinical trial. However, some claim that the null hypothesis rarely exists, and the threshold of empirical proof for establishing the superiority of one treatment arm over the other is rarely defined. Clinical equipoise and the null hypothesis are not part of the Belmont Report, Common Rule 45CFR46, or the institutional review board criteria for human subject protection. The four principles of bioethics, as outlined in the Belmont Report, are respect for persons with the need for informed consent, beneficence with the need to promote the patient’s best interests and minimize exposing the subject to the risk of harm, and justice with the need for fair subject selection. Practitioners must understand these principles to minimize risk and protect human subjects in healthcare research.
Withholding and Withdrawing Treatment
Authors: Bulger Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2024

The right of patients to withhold and withdraw from healthcare treatment is based on the principle of autonomy and the moral obligation of practitioners to pursue the patient’s best interests and “first do no harm.” The patient’s autonomy is protected through informed consent, living wills, durable power of attorney for healthcare, and surrogate decision-making by next of kin. In the event of disagreement among surrogates, an ethics consultation can be sought to reach a consensus. Legally, in the United States, common law recognizes the patient’s right to withhold and withdraw from healthcare treatment, but there may be controversy regarding the evidence accepted as proof. The right to withhold and withdraw from healthcare treatment is essential to maintaining the patient’s autonomy, interests, and well-being, and practitioners should support patients and surrogates in these decisions.
Suicide and religion: A comparative analysis of a complex relationship to inform practice
Authors: Gearing Robin Edward , Alonza Dana , Savani Shahnaz , Burr Sean , Arora Anil , Khudododova Sangina
Published: September 2024

Despite decades of examination, the nature and degree to which religion exerts influence on suicidal behaviour is often misunderstood. What is clear, however, is that in order to accurately assess for risk of suicide, consideration of an individual’s religiosity is essential. This chapter examines the complex relationship between suicide and religion across five dominant world religious groups, including Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Islam, and atheism/agnosticism. It is important to acknowledge these groups are not homogenous, but rather reflect various sects, each carrying distinct interpretations of doctrine and unique religious customs. Nevertheless, there are central tenets of each group that can be considered shared characteristics and that are the focus of this chapter. The role of religious doctrine, degree of affiliation, and level of participation will be explored for their association with suicidal ideation and behaviour to clarify the current state of evidence and inform suicide prevention and intervention efforts.
The preoperative visit
Authors: Watson Andrew
Published: September 2024

There is a solid body of literature demonstrating that effective preoperative communication can improve patient comfort and satisfaction with their anaesthetic experience and postoperative recovery. This is particularly evident with outcomes such as pain, medication use, and mobility. Traditionally the emphasis in the literature has been on gathering information, optimizing physiology, and obtaining informed consent. Less emphasis has been placed on the gains to be made in the way we communicate with patients in clinic, on the ward, or in the anaesthetic room. This chapter demonstrates how two simple, practical templates; ‘LAURS’ and ‘GREAT’ can be applied in the preoperative setting to help maximize the benefits that can arrive through optimizing communication between the patients and their treating anaesthetist.
Children
Authors: Olweny Catherine
Published: September 2024

Communicating with children and involving them in decisions about their health respects their autonomy, builds resilience for future medical encounters, and improves parental and child satisfaction. Communication needs to occur at multiple levels to meet the different needs and concerns of patients and family members. Developmental considerations are important in recognizing the emerging autonomy of the child in order to build rapport and trust in the short term and build resilience in the long term. The ‘GREAT’ template can be used effectively with children in the preoperative visit and perioperatively. Practical techniques for induction of anaesthesia in children in challenging interactions can be addressed using effective communication strategies such as lived-in imagination and double-binds and indirect suggestion.
Intraoperative awareness
Authors: Bejenke Christel J. , Tan Suyin G.M.
Published: September 2024

Intraoperative awareness may occur in any patient during general anaesthesia. Optimal analgesia should always be provided and, where possible, complete muscle relaxation avoided. Signs of awareness should be looked for. The theatre team should be educated regarding awareness, being mindful of conversations in the operating theatre and encouraged where possible to treat patients during the intraoperative period as if they were awake. The patient can also be educated preoperatively that ‘safe’ anaesthesia does not necessarily mean or require profound unconsciousness at all times. Reassuring verbal and non-verbal communications to the patient pre- and intraoperatively may mitigate adverse effects of awareness. Many patients who have experienced awareness report anxiety, sleep disturbances, nightmares, and fear of future anaesthetics. After an event, the patient needs to be believed and early referral for psychological counselling may be appropriate. If awareness with pain and/or emotional distress has occurred, the principles of listening and acceptance are key.
On the implausible physical implications of a claimed lensed neutral hydrogen detection at redshift z = 1.3
Authors: Deane Roger P , Blecher Tariq , Obreschkow Danail , Heywood Ian
Published: September 2024

The Square Kilometre Array mid-frequency array will enable high-redshift detections of neutral hydrogen (H i) emission in galaxies, providing important constraints on the evolution of cold gas in galaxies over cosmic time. Strong gravitational lensing will push back the H i emission frontier towards cosmic noon ($z\sim 2$), as has been done for all prominent spectral lines in the interstellar medium of galaxies. Chakraborty & Roy report a $z=1.3$H i emission detection towards the well-modelled, galaxy-scale gravitational lens, SDSS J0826+5630. We carry out H i source modelling of the system and find that their claimed H i magnification, $\mu _{\rm H\, {\small I}} = 29 \pm 6$, requires an H i disc radius of $\lesssim\!\! 1.5$ kpc, which implies an implausible mean H i surface mass density in excess of $\Sigma _{\rm H\, {\small I}} > 2000 \ \rm{ M}_\odot \, \rm{pc}^{-2}$. This is several orders of magnitude above the highest measured peak values ($\Sigma _{\rm H\, {\small I}} \sim 10~{\rm M}_\odot \, {\rm pc}^{-2}$), above which H i is converted into molecular hydrogen. Our re-analysis requires this to be the highest H i mass galaxy known ($M_{\rm H\, {\small I}} \sim 10^{11} \ \mathrm{ M}_\odot$), as well as strongly lensed, the latter having a typical probability of the order of 1 in 103–104. We conclude that the claimed detection is spurious.
Bridging healthcare gaps: a scoping review on the role of artificial intelligence, deep learning, and large language models in alleviating problems in medical deserts
Authors: Strika Zdeslav , Petkovic Karlo , Likic Robert , Batenburg Ronald
Published: September 2024

“Medical deserts” are areas with low healthcare service levels, challenging the access, quality, and sustainability of care. This qualitative narrative review examines how artificial intelligence (AI), particularly large language models (LLMs), can address these challenges by integrating with e-Health and the Internet of Medical Things to enhance services in under-resourced areas. It explores AI-driven telehealth platforms that overcome language and cultural barriers, increasing accessibility. The utility of LLMs in providing diagnostic assistance where specialist deficits exist is highlighted, demonstrating AI’s role in supplementing medical expertise and improving outcomes. Additionally, the development of AI chatbots offers preliminary medical advice, serving as initial contact points in remote areas. The review also discusses AI’s role in enhancing medical education and training, supporting the professional development of healthcare workers in these regions. It assesses AI’s strategic use in data analysis for effective resource allocation, identifying healthcare provision gaps. AI, especially LLMs, is seen as a promising solution for bridging healthcare gaps in “medical deserts,” improving service accessibility, quality, and distribution. However, continued research and development are essential to fully realize AI’s potential in addressing the challenges of medical deserts.
Vitamin D receptor alleviates lipid peroxidation in diabetic nephropathy by regulating ACLY/Nrf2/Keap1 pathway
Authors: Zhou Yueyi , Liao Qin , Li Dan , Chen Li , Zhang Hao , Yi Bin
Published: September 2024

The membrane lipid damage caused by reactive oxygen species(ROS) and various peroxides, namely lipid peroxidation, plays an important role in the progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN).We previously reported that vitamin D receptor(VDR) plays an active role in DN mice by modulating autophagy disorders. However, it is unclear whether the ATP‐citrate lyase (ACLY)/NF‐E2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2)/Kelch‐like ECH‐associated protein 1 (Keap1) pathway is associated with the reduction of lipid peroxidation by VDR in the DN model. We found that in the DN mouse model, VDR knockout significantly aggravated mitochondrial morphological damage caused by DN, increased the expression of ACLY, promoted the accumulation of ROS, lipid peroxidation products Malondialdehyde(MDA) and 4‐hydroxy‐2‐nonenal (4‐HNE),consumed the Nrf2/Keap1 system, thus increasing lipid peroxidation. However, the overexpression of VDR and intervention with the VDR agonist paricalcitol (Pari) can reduce the above damage. On the other hand, cellular experiments have shown that Pari can significantly reduce the elevated expression of ACLY and ROS induced by advanced glycation end products (AGE). However, ACLY overexpression partially eliminated the positive effects of the VDR agonist. Next, we verified the transcriptional regulation of ACLY by VDR through chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)‐qPCR and dual luciferase experiments. Moreover, in AGE models, knockdown of ACLY decreased lipid peroxidation and ROS production, while intervention with Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 partially weakened the protective effect of ACLY downregulation. In summary, VDR negatively regulates the expression of ACLY through transcription, thereby affecting the state of Nrf2/Keap1 system and regulating lipid peroxidation, thereby inhibiting kidney injury induced by DN.
Multidisciplinary Clinic Associated with Improved Outcomes in Patients with COPD
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: September 2024

According to this study:
OTC Hearing Aids Perform Well in People with Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss
Authors: Rosenberg Karen
Published: September 2024

According to this study:
Effect of an Enteral Formula Enriched With ω-3 Fatty Acids, Carnitine, and Vitamin D on Body Weight, Heart Weight, and Blood Biochemical Parameters in a Dahl Rat Heart Failure Model
Authors: Ryuno Yoshikazu , Kobayashi Jun-ichi , Fujimoto Yudai , Dotare Taishi , Matsue Yuya , Iwanami Yoshihito
Published: September 2024

Malnutrition is known to worsen the prognosis of chronic heart failure (HF). To gain information that may be helpful in establishing appropriate nutritional interventions for chronic HF, this study was performed to investigate the efficacy of nutritional management with 2 enteral formulas, EH, with a standard nutritional composition, and ER, fortified with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and carnitine. Experiments were performed in a Dahl rat HF model. After being fed a standard rodent feed (MF) containing 8% NaCl (high salt-MF [HS-MF]) from 6 to 11 weeks of age, rats were assigned to freeze-dried EH or ER diets with an NaCl concentration of 8% (HS-ER or HS-EH) until 18 weeks of age. Serum albumin was significantly higher at 14 and 17 weeks of age in rats fed the HS-ER and HS-EH diets compared with those remaining on the HS-MF diet. Body weight was also significantly higher at 14 and 17 weeks of age in animals fed the HS-ER diet, showing that nutritional deterioration was prevented. In addition, heart weight was significantly lower at 18 weeks of age in the HS-ER group than that in the HS-MF group, suggesting that cardiac hypertrophy was prevented. This study demonstrated improved nutritional status in a HF model in Dahl rats presumably owing to differences in nutritional composition in the diets. Future studies are needed to explore optimal nutritional management with enteral formulas in patients with chronic HF.
MACULAR VOLUME SCAN AS A MARKER OF ANGIOGRAPHIC UVEITIC RETINAL VASCULITIS
Authors: Alapati Akhila , Kherani Saleema , Begaj Tedi , Janetos Timothy M. , Zhang Kevin , Koreishi Anjum , Goldstein Debra A.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To determine whether optical coherence tomography thickness values from macular volume scans can be used to detect uveitic retinal vasculitis.

Methods:

Retrospective study of patients with noninfectious retinal vasculitis. Fluorescein angiogram and 61-line optical coherence tomography macular volume scans with an overlying Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy study grid were obtained. Correlation between 1 mm and 6 mm Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy study ring values and posterior pole vasculitis was analyzed. A linear longitudinal model was used to assess the relationship between global retinal vasculitis scores and optical coherence tomography macular thickness parameters.

Results:

Ninety-nine eyes of 54 patients were included. A total of 460 optical coherence tomography and fluorescein angiogram pairs were analyzed. Central (1 mm) macular thickness was weakly correlated with posterior pole vasculitis (correlation coefficient [rho] = 0.09, P = 0.06). Both the mean 6 mm ring (rho = 0.11, P = 0.018) and the average of the superior and inferior (S/I) 6 mm ring values (rho = 0.13, P = 0.006) were strongly correlated with posterior pole leakage. The longitudinal model showed that S/I 6 mm ring values are associated with vasculitis in the posterior pole, mid, and far periphery (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Optical coherence tomography–based macular volume thickness can detect uveitic retinal vasculitis and aid in monitoring disease activity.
Dual Kv7.2/3-TRPV1 modulators inhibit nociceptor hyperexcitability and alleviate pain without target-related side effects
Authors: Raveh Adi , Pen Yefim , Silberman Alon , Peretz Asher , Attali Bernard , Maile Laura , Davidson Steve , Brown Alan D. , Kennedy Jeffrey D. , Belinson Haim
Published: September 2024

Persistent or chronic pain is the primary reason people seek medical care, yet current therapies are either limited in efficacy or cause intolerable side effects. Diverse mechanisms contribute to the basic phenomena of nociceptor hyperexcitability that initiates and maintains pain. Two prominent players in the modulation of nociceptor hyperexcitability are the transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) ligand-gated ion channel and the voltage-gated potassium channel, Kv7.2/3, that reciprocally regulate neuronal excitability. Across many drug development programs targeting either TRPV1 or Kv7.2/3, significant evidence has been accumulated to support these as highly relevant targets; however, side effects that are poorly separated from efficacy have limited the successful clinical translation of numerous Kv7.2/3 and TRPV1 drug development programs. We report here the pharmacological profile of 3 structurally related small molecule analogues that demonstrate a novel mechanism of action (MOA) of dual modulation of Kv7.2/3 and TRPV1. Specifically, these compounds simultaneously activate Kv7.2/3 and enable unexpected specific and potent inhibition of TRPV1. This in vitro potency translated to significant analgesia in vivo in several animal models of acute and chronic pain. Importantly, this specific MOA is not associated with any previously described Kv7.2/3 or TRPV1 class-specific side effects. We suggest that the therapeutic potential of this MOA is derived from the selective and specific targeting of a subpopulation of nociceptors found in rodents and humans. This efficacy and safety profile supports the advancement of dual TRPV1-Kv7.2/3 modulating compounds into preclinical and clinical development for the treatment of chronic pain.
COVID-19 Risk Assessment Among Vulnerable Small Business Owners in El Paso County, Texas
Authors: Conway Sadie H. , Vasquez Denise , Mena Kristina D. , Brown Louis D. , Kwon Soyoung , Rios Janelle
Published: September 2024

Background

Our objective was to deliver actionable, worksite-specific COVID-19 risk assessments and mitigation strategies tailored to vulnerable workers in one of the highest-risk areas in the US.

Methods

Four trained, bilingual (English/Spanish) community health workers (CHWs) recruited small businesses (ie, ≤20 employees) across various industries and executed novel on-site infectious disease risk assessment surveys of at least one employer and one employee.

Results

Of 102 participating businesses (95% Hispanic-owned), 96% were characterized as “high risk” or “very high risk” for disease transmission. All businesses reported implementing at least one practice to reduce disease transmission; however, almost half of businesses lacked at least 13 of the 17 controls identified to mitigate risk.

Conclusions

Tailored, culturally sensitive outreach led by CHWs identified and educated businesses on critical hazards, and these methods may be transferable to similar communities.
Depiction of Homemade Infant Formula and Formula Hacks on Pinterest
Authors: McAdams Rebecca J. , Roberts Kristin J. , Keim Sarah A. , McKenzie Lara B.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

To examine Pinterest pins to discern the content, messaging and claims, and engagement with pins regarding formula hacking and homemade formula.

Background:

The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention discourage formula hacking (ie, preparing formula not according to directions to extend its use) and making homemade infant formula due to its associated health risks. Yet, caregivers are using social media platforms to find information on these topics.

Methods:

This study conducted a content analysis of Pinterest pins related to formula hacking and homemade infant formula identified from the platform in January 2023 by using 14 search terms.

Results:

A total of 63 pins were included in the sample. The topic of all (100.0%) pins was homemade formula. More than one-half (56.0%) of the 25 pins that provided a recipe included an unsafe ingredient, such as raw milk. The most frequently provided reasons to use homemade infant formula were in an emergency (38.2%) and when breastfeeding was not possible (38.2%). The most common claim was that homemade infant formula was healthy (59.6%). The total number of followers for the 63 pins was 861 636.

Conclusions:

Pinterest is widely used by caregivers to find feeding information for their infants. Credible organizations should utilize Pinterest to disseminate safe infant feeding practices supported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Implications:

The results will help nurses advocate for safe infant feeding and help them guide caregivers away from unsafe formula practices found on social media.
The Effects of Laughter Therapy on Perceived Stress and Quality of Life in Women With Breast Cancer Receiving Chemotherapy
Authors: Karakas Hacer , Zorba Bahceli Pinar , Akyol Murat
Published: September 2024

Background

Women with breast cancer experience various symptoms secondary to chemotherapy that reduce their quality of life and increase their stress levels.

Objective

To evaluate the effects of laughter therapy on perceived stress levels and quality of life in women with breast cancer receiving chemotherapy using a parallel-group randomized controlled pilot trial.

Methods

Forty-two women were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups. The intervention group received 40 minutes of laughter therapy twice a week for 8 weeks. The control group received routine treatment. The women in both groups completed the Perceived Stress Scale and SF-12 Health Survey at baseline, week 5, and week 9 after randomization.

Results

There was a significant decrease in the mean Perceived Stress Scale scores in the intervention group compared with those in the control group at weeks 5 and 9 compared with baseline, and the difference between groups by measurement week was significant (P < .001). Women in the intervention group had higher Physical Component Summary-12 and Mental Component Summary-12 scores in weeks 5 and 9 compared with those in the control group, and there was a significant difference between groups in terms of change in the Physical Component Summary-12 and Mental Component Summary-12 mean scores over time (P < .001).

Conclusion

Laughter therapy is possible to use as a nursing intervention to reduce the perceived stress levels and increase the quality of life of women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer.

Implications for Practice

Nurses can apply laughter therapy in the symptom management of women receiving chemotherapy.
Does the palpebral morphology influence the tear meniscus height between Caucasian and Asian eyes?
Authors: Guinel Maëlys , Bitton Etty
Published: September 2024

SIGNIFICANCE

The tear meniscus height (TMH) along the lid margin is a clinical measure in the evaluation of patients with dry eyes and contact lens wearers. The morphology of the eyelid may differ among ethnic groups, potentially impacting the meniscus height, which can be useful for clinicians to optimize patient care.

PURPOSE

The central lower TMH is used as a clinical measure of tear volume in the assessment of contact lens candidates and patients with dry eyes. Ethnic differences in eyelid morphology may influence the measurement of the TMH. Furthermore, with the advent of larger contact lenses, such as scleral lenses, it would be of clinical value to assess the TMH centrally and peripherally. The purpose of this study was to evaluate and compare the TMH at different positions along the palpebral margin between Caucasian and Asian eyes.

METHODS

This prospective study evaluated the lower TMH in five positions (central, temporal and nasal limbus and temporal and nasal periphery) of the right eye using the Keratograph 5M (Oculus) instrument in Caucasian and Asian participants between 10 am and 12 pm. The TMH at each position was taken three times and averaged and analyzed using a 5 × 2 repeated-measures analysis of variance.

RESULTS

Central TMH did not differ significantly (F = 0.02, p=0.88) in Caucasians (n = 20, aged 24.45 [2.30] years, TMH 0.320 [0.052] mm) and Asians (n = 20, aged 22.25 [3.43] years, TMH 0.325 [0.048] mm). A difference was noted with respect to TMH positions along the lid margin (F = 64.17, p<0.001), independent of ethnicity (F = 2.15, p=0.15). A post hoc analysis revealed a significantly higher TMH temporally when compared with centrally or nasally (p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated the similarity of the central TMH and the differences in the peripheral TMH within Caucasian and Asian eyes. This may be clinically relevant when using the Tear Film & Ocular Surface Society Dry Eye Workshop II diagnostic algorithm for dry eyes and when fitting scleral contact lenses. Future studies need to consider that ethnic differences may exist for certain tests in order to personalize the care and management of each patient.
CD4+/CD8+ improvement after switch from a second-generation integrase inhibitor regimen to long-acting cabotegravir and rilpivirine
Authors: Muccini Camilla , Gianotti Nicola , Lolatto Riccardo , Nozza Silvia , Diotallevi Sara , Castagna Antonella
Published: September 2024

Our study assessed the CD4+/CD8+ ratio in people with HIV (PWH) switching from a second-generation integrase inhibitor regimen to long-acting cabotegravir (CAB) and rilpivirine (RPV). Over one year, we observed a significant improvement in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio; In addition, our data showed that time spent in CAB+RPV was significantly associated with an increased CD4+/CD8+ ratio. These findings suggest that long-acting therapy may enhance immune recovery, also in treatment-experienced PWH.
18F-FDG PET Metabolic Parameters for the Prediction of Histological Response to Induction Chemotherapy in Osteosarcoma and Ewing Sarcoma
Authors: Yadgarov Mikhail , Berikashvili Levan , Rakova Elena , Likar Yury
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to evaluate the ability of 18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters to predict the histological response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.

Patients and Methods

This systematic review and network meta-analysis adhered to the PRISMA-NMA and Cochrane guidelines. Electronic databases were searched from January 2008 to January 2024; this search was supplemented by snowballing methods. The risk of bias was evaluated with QUADAS-2, and evidence certainty was assessed using the GRADE approach. The prognostic value of 18F-FDG PET/CT parameters, including pretreatment and posttreatment SUVs (SUV1, SUV2 and the SUV2/SUV1 ratio), metabolic tumor volume (MTV1, MTV2, ΔMTV), and total lesion glycolysis (TLG1, TLG2, ΔTLG), was examined.

Results

The meta-analysis of 18 studies (714 patients) identified the ΔTLG, ΔMTV, and SUVratio as superior predictors of histological response. The changes in metabolic activity, as indicated by these parameters, provided a robust indication of treatment effectiveness. Baseline parameters showed limited predictive value compared with posttreatment assessments. The study’s robustness was confirmed through meta-regression, which revealed that the predictive value of the SUV2 and SUVratio was consistent across various cutoff thresholds.

Conclusions

18F-FDG PET/CT metabolic parameters, particularly those measuring changes posttherapy, are effective in predicting the histological response in patients with osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma. These findings underscore the potential of 18F-FDG PET/CT in guiding early treatment decisions, thereby enhancing personalized therapeutic approaches.
A shift between r and K strategies in the life cycle of a unicellular microalga
Authors: Liu Lu , Tang Si , Liu Yaqing , Zhang Boya , Zhong Yanlin , Liu Dai , Zhou Jin , Cai Zhonghua
Published: September 2024

r (high reproductivity but stress-sensitive offspring) and K (low reproductivity but high stress-resistant offspring) strategies are two classical life history theories. Contrary to the belief that one species only has a single strategy (i.e., either r or K), we present experimental evidence for the coexistence of both strategies in the isogenic microalgaHaematococcus lacustris. Under standard conditions, swimming vegetative cells (SVC) normally grew and divided via binary fission (r strategy) and gradually shifted into non-swimming cysts (NSC) over time. Intriguingly, unlike the prevailing notion that NSC cannot propagate under stress, they were found to reproduce via multiple fission at a barely detectable growth rate, resulting in stress-resistant, non-mobile daughter cells and demonstrating a complete life history (K strategy). Collectively, our findings indicate thatH. lacustrisadopts both r and K strategies throughout its life history. This research enhances the understanding of the adaptation and survival of microbial populations in changing environments.
Tau condensation on DNA and localization on centromeres: A potential link to cell division
Authors: Park Celine , Jung Jaehun , Hong Yuri , Lee-Eom Chaelin , Rah Sang-Hyun , Yang Keunsang , Shin Jaehyeon , Jeong Ayoung , Hong Seokyun , Lee Jong-Bong , Hwang Dong Soo , Shon Min Ju
Published: September 2024

Tau protein, traditionally recognized for stabilizing microtubules and forming pathological aggregates, has recently been observed to form condensates in various contexts. While its condensation with RNA has been well studied, the interaction between tau and DNA, along with its biological significance, remains less explored. Here, using single-molecule experiments, we found that tau binds stably to naked DNA at nanomolar concentrations, leading to the local co- condensation of tau and DNA. These tau condensates on DNA can also interface with microtubules, leveraging tau’s known role in promoting microtubule growth and organization. The dynamic nature of these condensates facilitates the remodeling of the DNA–microtubule assembly. Interestingly, two phosphomimetic tau mutants, T231D/S235D and S262D, retained their affinity for DNA but differed in their ability to link microtubules to DNA. Furthermore, imaging of HEK-293 and SH-SY5Y cells in early mitosis revealed that tau localizes on centromeres, poised to capture nascent mitotic spindles. Building on these observations, we speculate that tau may play a novel role in mitosis, where tau clusters facilitate the early registration of mitotic spindles to chromosomes before kinetochore-mediated attachment. We also discuss the potential implications of this model in conditions where abnormal cell cycle re-entry and tau activity may disrupt cell division.
A scalable, high-throughput neural development platform identifies shared impact of ASD genes on cell fate and differentiation
Authors: Wang Xuran , Lalli Matthew , Thopte Urvashi , Buxbaum Joseph D.
Published: September 2024

Background

Deleterious mutations in hundreds of genes confer high risk for neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs), posing significant challenges for therapeutic development. Identifying convergent pathways shared across NDD genes could reveal high-impact therapeutic targets.

Methods

To identity convergent pathways in NDD genes, we optimized Perturb-seq, a method combining CRISPR perturbation with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq), and applied structural topic modeling (STM) to simultaneously assess impact on cell fate and developmental stage. We then studied a subset of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) genes implicated in regulation of gene expression using these improved molecular and analytical approaches.

Results

Results from targeting 60 high-confidence ASD risk genes revealed significant effects on neural development. As expected, ASD risk genes impacted both progenitor fate and/or neuronal differentiation. Using STM, we could identify latent topics jointly capturing cell types, cell fate, and differentiation stages. Repression of ASD risk genes led to changes in topic proportions and effects of four genes (DEAF1,KMT2A,MED13L, andMYT1L)were validated in an independent dataset.

Conclusions

Our optimized Perturb-seq method, combined with a novel analytical approach, provides a powerful, cost-effective framework for uncovering convergent mechanisms among genes involved in complex neurodevelopmental processes. Application of these methods advanced understanding of the impact of ASD mutations on multiple dimensions of neural development, and provides a framework for a broader examination of the function of NDD risk genes.
The dimerization domain of SARS CoV 2 Nucleocapsid protein is partially disordered as a monomer and forms a high affinity dynamic complex
Authors: Cubuk Jasmine , Jeremias Incicco J. , Hall Kathleen B. , Holehouse Alex S. , Stuchell-Brereton Melissa D. , Soranno Andrea
Published: September 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid (N) is a 419 amino acids protein that drives the compaction and packaging of the viral genome. This compaction is aided not only by protein-RNA interactions, but also by protein-protein interactions that contribute to increasing the valence of the nucleocapsid protein. Here, we focused on quantifying the mechanisms that control dimer formation. Single-molecule Förster Resonance Energy Transfer enabled us to investigate the conformations of the dimerization domain in the context of the full-length protein as well as the energetics associated with dimerization. Under monomeric conditions, we observed significantly expanded configurations of the dimerization domain (compared to the folded dimer structure), which are consistent with a dynamic conformational ensemble. The addition of unlabeled protein stabilizes a folded dimer configuration with a high mean transfer efficiency, in agreement with predictions based on known structures. Dimerization is characterized by a dissociation constant of ∼ 12 nM at 23OC and is driven by strong enthalpic interactions between the two protein subunits, which originate from the coupled folding and binding. Interestingly, the dimer structure retains some of the conformational heterogeneity of the monomeric units, and the addition of denaturant reveals that the dimer domain can significantly expand before being completely destabilized. Our findings suggest that the inherent flexibility of the monomer form is required to adopt the specific fold of the dimer domain, where the two subunits interlock with one another. We proposed that the retained flexibility of the dimer form may favor the capture and interactions with RNA, and that the temperature dependence of dimerization may explain some of the previous observations regarding the phase separation propensity of the N protein.
An Effective Surface Passivation Assay for Single-Molecule Studies of Chromatin and Topoisomerase II
Authors: Le Tung T. , Gao Xiang , Park Seong Ha , Lee Jaeyoon , Inman James T. , Wang Michelle D.
Published: September 2024

For single-molecule studies requiring surface anchoring of biomolecules, a poorly passivated surface can result in alterations of biomolecule structure and function that can result in artifacts. This protocol describes surface passivation and sample chamber preparation for mechanical manipulation of chromatin fibers and characterization of topoisomerase II activity in physiological buffer conditions. The method employs enhanced surface hydrophobicity and purified blocking proteins to reduce non-specific surface adsorption. This method is accessible, cost-effective, and potentially widely applicable to other biomolecules.

For a complete list of publications that employ this protocol, see the paper references.

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GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT