1
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Glei DA, Weinstein M. Daily exposure to stressors, daily perceived severity of stress, and mortality risk among US adults. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0303266. [PMID: 38748692 PMCID: PMC11095670 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0303266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Prior studies of perceived stress and mortality have yielded mixed results, but most are based on one-time measurements of perceived stress. We use daily diary data from the Midlife in the United States study to measure exposure to stressors and perceived severity of stress and investigate their associations with mortality. We also explore whether the associations vary by age and assess whether the associations are stronger for extrinsic than intrinsic mortality, which is more likely to be aging-related. The analysis included 4,756 observations for 2,915 respondents aged 21-95 who participated in at least one of three waves (1996-97, 2004-09, 2017-19) of the National Study of Daily Experiences. Participants reported daily stressors and perceived severity on 8 consecutive evenings at each wave. Mortality was followed through December 31, 2021. In fully-adjusted models, daily exposure to stressors was associated with mortality, but only at younger ages (HR = 1.20 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 1.01‒1.42). The association was slightly stronger for extrinsic (HR = 1.31 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 1.01‒1.69) than for intrinsic mortality, which was not significant (HR = 1.24 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 0.98‒1.56). When we used an alternative measure of daily perceived severity of stress, the demographic-adjusted association appeared to be similar in magnitude, but after careful adjustment for potential confounding with health status, the association weakened and was no longer statistically significant (HR = 1.17 per SD at age 50, 95% CI: 0.99-1.37). Perceived severity was not significantly associated with either extrinsic or intrinsic mortality even at age 50. Most Americans die at older ages, where stress exposure does not appear to be significantly associated with mortality. Nonetheless, our results suggest that stress exposure is more strongly associated with midlife mortality, which has an undue influence on overall life expectancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana A. Glei
- Center for Population and Health, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Maxine Weinstein
- Center for Population and Health, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
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2
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Graham EL, Fernandez J, Gandhi S, Choudhry I, Kellam N, LaRocque JR. The impact of developmental stage, tissue type, and sex on DNA double-strand break repair in Drosophila melanogaster. PLoS Genet 2024; 20:e1011250. [PMID: 38683763 PMCID: PMC11057719 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1011250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Accurate repair of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) is essential for the maintenance of genome integrity, as failure to repair DSBs can result in cell death. The cell has evolved two main mechanisms for DSB repair: non-homologous end-joining (NHEJ) and homology-directed repair (HDR), which includes single-strand annealing (SSA) and homologous recombination (HR). While certain factors like age and state of the chromatin are known to influence DSB repair pathway choice, the roles of developmental stage, tissue type, and sex have yet to be elucidated in multicellular organisms. To examine the influence of these factors, DSB repair in various embryonic developmental stages, larva, and adult tissues in Drosophila melanogaster was analyzed through molecular analysis of the DR-white assay using Tracking across Indels by DEcomposition (TIDE). The proportion of HR repair was highest in tissues that maintain the canonical (G1/S/G2/M) cell cycle and suppressed in both terminally differentiated and polyploid tissues. To determine the impact of sex on repair pathway choice, repair in different tissues in both males and females was analyzed. When molecularly examining tissues containing mostly somatic cells, males and females demonstrated similar proportions of HR and NHEJ. However, when DSB repair was analyzed in male and female premeiotic germline cells utilizing phenotypic analysis of the DR-white assay, there was a significant decrease in HR in females compared to males. This study describes the impact of development, tissue-specific cycling profile, and, in some cases, sex on DSB repair outcomes, underscoring the complexity of repair in multicellular organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth L. Graham
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Joel Fernandez
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Shagun Gandhi
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Iqra Choudhry
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Natalia Kellam
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Jeannine R. LaRocque
- Department of Human Science, School of Health, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
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3
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Lynce F, Mainor C, Donahue RN, Geng X, Jones G, Schlam I, Wang H, Toney NJ, Jochems C, Schlom J, Zeck J, Gallagher C, Nanda R, Graham D, Stringer-Reasor EM, Denduluri N, Collins J, Chitalia A, Tiwari S, Nunes R, Kaltman R, Khoury K, Gatti-Mays M, Tarantino P, Tolaney SM, Swain SM, Pohlmann P, Parsons HA, Isaacs C. Adjuvant nivolumab, capecitabine or the combination in patients with residual triple-negative breast cancer: the OXEL randomized phase II study. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2691. [PMID: 38538574 PMCID: PMC10973408 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46961-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/15/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors have a role in the post-neoadjuvant setting in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the effects of nivolumab, a checkpoint inhibitor, capecitabine, or the combination in changing peripheral immunoscore (PIS) remains unclear. This open-label randomized phase II OXEL study (NCT03487666) aimed to assess the immunologic effects of nivolumab, capecitabine, or the combination in terms of the change in PIS (primary endpoint). Secondary endpoints included the presence of ctDNA, toxicity, clinical outcomes at 2-years and association of ctDNA and PIS with clinical outcomes. Forty-five women with TNBC and residual invasive disease after standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy were randomized to nivolumab, capecitabine, or the combination. Here we show that a combination of nivolumab plus capecitabine leads to a greater increase in PIS from baseline to week 6 (91%) compared with nivolumab (47%) or capecitabine (53%) alone (log-rank p = 0.08), meeting the pre-specified primary endpoint. In addition, the presence of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is associated with disease recurrence, with no new safety signals in the combination arm. Our results provide efficacy and safety data on this combination in TNBC and support further development of PIS and ctDNA analyses to identify patients at high risk of recurrence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Lynce
- Division of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA.
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA.
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Candace Mainor
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Renee N Donahue
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Xue Geng
- Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | - Ilana Schlam
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
- Tufts Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Nicole J Toney
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Caroline Jochems
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jeffrey Schlom
- Center for Immuno-Oncology, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Jay Zeck
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | | | | | - Deena Graham
- Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | | | | | - Julie Collins
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
- AstraZeneca, Arlington, VA, USA
| | - Ami Chitalia
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Shruti Tiwari
- MedStar Washington Hospital Center, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Raquel Nunes
- Johns Hopkins Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center, Baltimore, MD, USA
- AstraZeneca, Arlington, VA, USA
| | | | - Katia Khoury
- University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | | | - Paolo Tarantino
- Division of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sara M Tolaney
- Division of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Paula Pohlmann
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Heather A Parsons
- Division of Medical Oncology, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Boston, MA, USA
- Breast Oncology Program, Dana-Farber Brigham Cancer Center, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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4
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Hameed F, Maity A, Francis VS, Gavvalapalli N. Pyrazinacene conjugated polymers: a breakthrough in synthesis and unraveling the conjugation continuum. Chem Sci 2024; 15:4054-4067. [PMID: 38487242 PMCID: PMC10935667 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc06552a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Pyrazinacenes are next generation N-heteroacenes and represent a novel class of stable n-type materials capable of accepting more than one electron and displaying intriguing features, including prototropism, halochromism, and redox chromism. Astonishingly, despite a century since their discovery, there have been no reports on the conjugated polymers of pyrazinacenes due to unknown substrate scope and lack of pyrazinacene monomers that are conducive to condensation polymerization. Breaking through these challenges, in this work, we report the synthesis of previously undiscovered and highly coveted conjugated polymers of pyrazinacenes. In order to understand the intricacies of conjugation extension within the acene and along the polymer backbone, a series of electronically diverse four pyrazinacene conjugated polymers were synthesized. Polymers synthesis required optimizing a few synthetic steps along the 12-step synthetic pathway. The generated pyrazinacene monomers are not amenable to the popular condensation polymerizations involving Pd or Cu catalysts. Gratifyingly, Pd and Cu free dehydrohalogenation polymerization of the monomer with HgCl2 resulted in high molecular weight organometallic conjugated pyrazinacene polymers within a few minutes at room temperature. The dual role played by the Hg(ii) during the polymerization, combined with the self-coupling of the RHgCl (intermediate), is at the core of successful polymerization. Notably, the self-coupling of intermediates challenges the strict stoichiometric balance typically required for step-growth polymerization and offers a novel synthetic strategy to generate high molecular weight conjugated polymers even with imbalanced monomer stoichiometries. A combination of electrochemical studies and DFT-B3LYP simulations indicated that the presence of the reduced pyrazine ring promotes interacene π-conjugation through the metal center, in contrast to completely oxidized tetrazaazaanthracene. The extension of conjugation results in ca. 2 eV lower reduction potential for polymers compared to the monomer, placing the LUMO energy levels of these polymers on par with some of the best-known n-type polymers. Also, the presence of NH protons in the pyrazinacene polymers show ionochromism and red-shift UV-vis absorption maximum by ca. 100 nm. This work not only shows a way to realize highly desirable and elusive pyrazinacene conjugated polymers but also paves the way for a library of n-type conjugated polymers that can undergo multi-electron reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Hameed
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. 20057 USA
| | - Arindam Maity
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. 20057 USA
| | - Victor S Francis
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. 20057 USA
| | - Nagarjuna Gavvalapalli
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. 20057 USA
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5
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Sarfraz N, Shafik LK, Stickelman ZR, Shankar U, Moscoso E, Braselmann E. Evaluating Riboglow-FLIM probes for RNA sensing. RSC Chem Biol 2024; 5:109-116. [PMID: 38333191 PMCID: PMC10849122 DOI: 10.1039/d3cb00197k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
We recently developed Riboglow-FLIM, where we genetically tag and track RNA molecules in live cells through measuring the fluorescence lifetime of a small molecule probe that binds the RNA tag. Here, we systematically and quantitatively evaluated key elements of Riboglow-FLIM that may serve as the foundation for Riboglow-FLIM applications and further tool development efforts. Our investigation focused on measuring changes in fluorescence lifetime of representative Riboglow-FLIM probes with different linkers and fluorophores in different environments. In vitro measurements revealed distinct lifetime differences among the probe variants as a result of different linker designs and fluorophore selections. To expand on the platform's versatility, probes in a wide variety of mammalian cell types were examined using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM), and possible effects on cell physiology were evaluated by metabolomics. The results demonstrated that variations in lifetime were dependent on both probe and cell type. Interestingly, distinct differences in lifetime values were observed between cell lines, while no overall change in cell health was measured. These findings underscore the importance of probe selection and cellular environment when employing Riboglow-FLIM for RNA detection, serving as a foundation for future tool development and applications across diverse fields and biological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Sarfraz
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Luke K Shafik
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Zachary R Stickelman
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Uma Shankar
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Emilia Moscoso
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
| | - Esther Braselmann
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington District of Columbia USA
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6
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Abarca M, Parker AL, Larsen EA, Umbanhowar J, Earl C, Guralnick R, Kingsolver J, Ries L. How development and survival combine to determine the thermal sensitivity of insects. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0291393. [PMID: 38289939 PMCID: PMC10826953 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0291393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Thermal performance curves (TPCs) depict variation in vital rates in response to temperature and have been an important tool to understand ecological and evolutionary constraints on the thermal sensitivity of ectotherms. TPCs allow for the calculation of indicators of thermal tolerance, such as minimum, optimum, and maximum temperatures that allow for a given metabolic function. However, these indicators are computed using only responses from surviving individuals, which can lead to underestimation of deleterious effects of thermal stress, particularly at high temperatures. Here, we advocate for an integrative framework for assessing thermal sensitivity, which combines both vital rates and survival probabilities, and focuses on the temperature interval that allows for population persistence. Using a collated data set of Lepidopteran development rate and survival measured on the same individuals, we show that development rate is generally limiting at low temperatures, while survival is limiting at high temperatures. We also uncover differences between life stages and across latitudes, with extended survival at lower temperatures in temperate regions. Our combined performance metric demonstrates similar thermal breadth in temperate and tropical individuals, an effect that only emerges from integration of both development and survival trends. We discuss the benefits of using this framework in future predictive and management contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Abarca
- Department of Biological Sciences, Smith College, Northampton, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - Anna L. Parker
- Department of Biology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina United States of America
| | - Elise A. Larsen
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - James Umbanhowar
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Chandra Earl
- Department of Natural Sciences, Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, Honolulu, Hawaii, United States of America
| | - Robert Guralnick
- Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States of America
| | - Joel Kingsolver
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Leslie Ries
- Department of Biology, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States of America
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7
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Martin KC, Seydell-Greenwald A, Turkeltaub PE, Chambers CE, Giannetti M, Dromerick AW, Carpenter JL, Berl MM, Gaillard WD, Newport EL. One right can make a left: sentence processing in the right hemisphere after perinatal stroke. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:11257-11268. [PMID: 37859521 PMCID: PMC10690853 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhad362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023] Open
Abstract
When brain regions that are critical for a cognitive function in adulthood are irreversibly damaged at birth, what patterns of plasticity support the successful development of that function in an alternative location? Here we investigate the consistency of language organization in the right hemisphere (RH) after a left hemisphere (LH) perinatal stroke. We analyzed fMRI data collected during an auditory sentence comprehension task on 14 people with large cortical LH perinatal arterial ischemic strokes (left hemisphere perinatal stroke (LHPS) participants) and 11 healthy sibling controls using a "top voxel" approach that allowed us to compare the same number of active voxels across each participant and in each hemisphere for controls. We found (1) LHPS participants consistently recruited the same RH areas that were a mirror-image of typical LH areas, and (2) the RH areas recruited in LHPS participants aligned better with the strongly activated LH areas of the typically developed brains of control participants (when flipped images were compared) than the weakly activated RH areas. Our findings suggest that the successful development of language processing in the RH after a LH perinatal stroke may in part depend on recruiting an arrangement of frontotemporal areas reflective of the typical dominant LH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C Martin
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
| | - Anna Seydell-Greenwald
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Peter E Turkeltaub
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Catherine E Chambers
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Margot Giannetti
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Alexander W Dromerick
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Jessica L Carpenter
- Division of Pediatric Neurology, Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore MD 21201, United States
| | - Madison M Berl
- Children’s National Hospital and Center for Neuroscience, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - William D Gaillard
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- Children’s National Hospital and Center for Neuroscience, Washington, DC 20010, United States
| | - Elissa L Newport
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, United States
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC 20010, United States
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8
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Jarawan E, Boiangiu M, Zeng W. Strengthening provider accountability: A scoping review of accountability/monitoring frameworks for quality of RMNCH care. PLOS Glob Public Health 2023; 3:e0001968. [PMID: 37943720 PMCID: PMC10635430 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Increasing health providers' accountability is an important element in improving quality of care (QoC) for reproductive, maternal, neonatal, and child health (RMNCH), so as to improve health outcomes of the population in many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Implemented RMNCH monitoring initiatives vary in their settings, methods of data collection, and indicators selected for monitoring. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the monitoring/accountability frameworks used by key global monitoring initiatives and provide insights for countries to develop context-customized indicators for RMNCH monitoring and accountability in middle-income countries. The authors conducted a scoping review of key global monitoring initiatives on their monitoring/accountability framework and associated indicators. Data was extracted into a spreadsheet template for analysis. Monitoring/accountability frameworks corresponding to the selected global RMNCH initiatives were described, analyzed, and then categorized the monitoring indicators used by the initiatives according to the type of indicators, quality domains, monitoring levels, and type of services. The results showed that all frameworks regarded developing quality indicators and their monitoring as important elements of accountability and emphasized the role of health systems blocks as inputs for QoC. The researchers demonstrated the importance of measuring quality through both condition-specific and general health system indicators. However, given the different purposes of global monitoring initiatives, the indicators they used varied. We found a lack of indicators measuring QoC of reproductive health. In terms of quality domains, the timeliness and efficiency of RMNCH services were neglected, as few of these indicators were selected for monitoring. Global monitoring initiatives provide valuable frameworks for countries to understand which key indicators need to be tracked to achieve global objectives and develop the foundation for their own accountability/monitoring systems. Gaps in quality indicator design and use emphasize countries need to build on what the global initiatives have achieved to systematically examine quality concerns, develop a tailored and effective accountability/monitoring framework, and improve population health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eva Jarawan
- Department of Global Health, School of Health, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Mara Boiangiu
- Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Wu Zeng
- Department of Global Health, School of Health, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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9
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Mohanan M, Ahmad H, Ajayan P, Pandey PK, Calvert BM, Zhang X, Chen F, Kim SJ, Kundu S, Gavvalapalli N. Using molecular straps to engineer conjugated porous polymer growth, chemical doping, and conductivity. Chem Sci 2023; 14:5510-5518. [PMID: 37234908 PMCID: PMC10207893 DOI: 10.1039/d3sc00983a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Controlling network growth and architecture of 3D-conjugated porous polymers (CPPs) is challenging and therefore has limited the ability to systematically tune the network architecture and study its impact on doping efficiency and conductivity. We have proposed that π-face masking straps mask the π-face of the polymer backbone and therefore help to control π-π interchain interactions in higher dimensional π-conjugated materials unlike the conventional linear alkyl pendant solubilizing chains that are incapable of masking the π-face. Herein, we used cycloaraliphane-based π-face masking strapped monomers and show that the strapped repeat units, unlike the conventional monomers, help to overcome the strong interchain π-π interactions, extend network residence time, tune network growth, and increase chemical doping and conductivity in 3D-conjugated porous polymers. The straps doubled the network crosslinking density, which resulted in 18 times higher chemical doping efficiency compared to the control non-strapped-CPP. The straps also provided synthetic tunability and generated CPPs of varying network size, crosslinking density, dispersibility limit, and chemical doping efficiency by changing the knot to strut ratio. For the first time, we have shown that the processability issue of CPPs can be overcome by blending them with insulating commodity polymers. The blending of CPPs with poly(methylmethacrylate) (PMMA) has enabled them to be processed into thin films for conductivity measurements. The conductivity of strapped-CPPs is three orders of magnitude higher than that of the poly(phenyleneethynylene) porous network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manikandan Mohanan
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
| | - Humayun Ahmad
- Department of Physics, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
| | - Pooja Ajayan
- Dave C. Swalm School of Chemical Engineering, Mississippi State University Mississippi USA
| | | | - Benjamin M Calvert
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
| | - Xinran Zhang
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Riverside California USA
| | - Fu Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of Maryland College Park Maryland USA
| | - Sung J Kim
- Department of Chemistry, Howard University Washington D.C. USA
| | - Santanu Kundu
- Department of Physics, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
| | - Nagarjuna Gavvalapalli
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
- Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University Washington, D.C. USA
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10
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Hameed F, Mohanan M, Ibrahim N, Ochonma C, Rodríguez-López J, Gavvalapalli N. Controlling π-Conjugated Polymer-Acceptor Interactions by Designing Polymers with a Mixture of π-Face Strapped and Nonstrapped Monomers. Macromolecules 2023; 56:3421-3429. [PMID: 38510570 PMCID: PMC10950295 DOI: 10.1021/acs.macromol.3c00175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Revised: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 03/22/2024]
Abstract
Controlling π-conjugated polymer-acceptor complex interaction, including the interaction strength and location along the polymer backbone, is central to organic electronics and energy applications. Straps in the strapped π-conjugated polymers mask the π-face of the polymer backbone and hence are useful to control the interactions of the π-face of the polymer backbone with other polymer chains and small molecules compared to the conventional pendant solubilizing chains. Herein, we have synthesized a series of strapped π-conjugated copolymers containing a mixture of strapped and nonstrapped comonomers to control the polymer-acceptor interactions. Simulations confirmed that the acceptor is directed toward the nonstrapped repeat unit. More importantly, strapped copolymers overcome a major drawback of homopolymers and display higher photoinduced photoluminescence (PL) quenching, which is a measure of electron transfer from the polymer to acceptor, compared to that of both the strapped homopolymer and the conventional polymer with pendant solubilizing chains. We have also shown that this strategy applies not only to strapped polymers, but also to the conventional polymers with pendant solubilizing chains. The increase in PL quenching is attributed to the absence of a steric sheath around the comonomers and their random location along the polymer backbone, which enhances the probability of non-neighbor acceptor binding events along the polymer backbone. Thus, by mixing insulated and noninsulated monomers along the polymer backbone, the location of the acceptor along the polymer backbone, polymer-acceptor interaction strength, and the efficiency of photoinduced charge transfer are controllable compared to the homopolymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Hameed
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
- Institute
for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
| | - Manikandan Mohanan
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
- Institute
for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
| | - Nafisa Ibrahim
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Charles Ochonma
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
- Institute
for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
| | - Joaquín Rodríguez-López
- Department
of Chemistry, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois 61801, United States
| | - Nagarjuna Gavvalapalli
- Department
of Chemistry, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
- Institute
for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C. 20057, United States
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11
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Steen TY. William Jackson Schull and mutation studies on human cohorts. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1151861. [PMID: 37006580 PMCID: PMC10064002 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1151861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
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12
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Sharma S, Myers-Ward RL, Gaskill KD, Chatzakis I. Ultrafast hot-carrier cooling in quasi freestanding bilayer graphene with hydrogen intercalated atoms. Nanoscale Adv 2023; 5:485-492. [PMID: 36756263 PMCID: PMC9846464 DOI: 10.1039/d2na00678b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Femtosecond-THz optical pump probe spectroscopy is employed to investigate the cooling dynamics of hot carriers in quasi-free standing bilayer epitaxial graphene with hydrogen interacalation. We observe longer decay time constants, in the range of 2.6 to 6.4 ps, compared to previous studies on monolayer graphene, which increase nonlinearly with excitation intensity. The increased relaxation times are due to the decoupling of the graphene layer from the SiC substrate after hydrogen intercalation which increases the distance between graphene and substrate. Furthermore, our measurements show that the supercollision mechanism is not related to the cooling process of the hot carriers, which is ultimately achieved by electron optical phonon scattering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin Sharma
- Texas Tech University Department of Physics & Astronomy Lubbock Texas TX 79409 USA
| | | | - Kurt D Gaskill
- Institute for Research in Electronics and Applied Physics, University of Maryland College Park MD USA
| | - Ioannis Chatzakis
- Texas Tech University Department of Physics & Astronomy Lubbock Texas TX 79409 USA
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13
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Downey RM, Downey KB, Jacobs J, Korthas H, Melchor GS, Speidell A, Waguespack H, Mulroney SE, Myers AK. Learning design in science education: perspectives from designing a graduate-level course in evidence-based teaching of science. Adv Physiol Educ 2022; 46:651-657. [PMID: 36173341 PMCID: PMC9639774 DOI: 10.1152/advan.00069.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Graduate students intending to pursue an academic career in the sciences have much to gain by learning to teach science but often have limited training opportunities. In response to this need, we designed a one-semester course, Learning Design in Science Education (LDSE), in which students receive formal training in pedagogical theory with role model demonstration of current best practices in active learning. Building from previous descriptions of similar courses, we added a practical experience for the students to utilize their new skills to design and teach a mini science course at the end of the semester. Additionally, students developed a teaching portfolio, complete with a personal teaching statement, syllabus, course materials, and evaluations from peers and faculty. Overall, the course was well received by the students and there are early indications that students benefited from their participation in the course. In this manuscript, we present the design and outcomes of the course, faculty and student perceptions, and thoughts on improvements for future semesters and its potential for use by others.NEW & NOTEWORTHY The need for graduate students and other trainees to learn effective methods for teaching science is greater than ever. In this manuscript, we offer a model course for the training of graduate students in learning theory, curriculum design, and technology use in a biomedical sciences environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Downey
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Center for New Designs in Learning and Scholarship, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine, Cupecoy, Sint Maarten
| | - K Breana Downey
- Department of Pediatrics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jessica Jacobs
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Holly Korthas
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - George S Melchor
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Andrew Speidell
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Hannah Waguespack
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Susan E Mulroney
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Center for New Designs in Learning and Scholarship, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Adam K Myers
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia
- Center for New Designs in Learning and Scholarship, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
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14
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Cabling ML, Drago F, Turner J, Hurtado-de-Mendoza A, Sheppard VB. Revisiting agency and medical health technology: actor network theory and breast cancer survivors’ perspectives on an adherence tool. Health Technol 2022; 12:1071-1084. [PMID: 36406185 PMCID: PMC9660207 DOI: 10.1007/s12553-022-00707-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Optimal treatment adherence is critical in the management of breast cancer patients/survivors taking hormonal therapy. However, lack of adherence is common. Many technologies have been developed to encourage medication intake, such as reminders on phones or digital pills, with varying degrees of success. Methods To explore the role of technology in medical adherence requires a framework that considers all complexities of technology, from software to the end user’s beliefs. Actor Network Theory (ANT) defines technology based on its technical, social, and abstract components. We conducted three focus groups, which we analyzed using a thematic analysis to determine topics in breast cancer survivors’ discussions of these technologies. We also conducted a deductive content analysis using ANT concepts as codes. Results In discussing the use of technology to improve medical adherence, participants had an empowering view of technology (48.8%) a neutral one (41.5%) or a disempowering view (9.8%). When it comes to their medication adherence, breast cancer survivors taking hormonal therapy perceived technology as something on which they could assert agency while their own agency dictated their adherence behaviors. Conclusions In line with a non-technologically deterministic view of medical technologies, this finding shows that technology can be both constraining and enabling, depending on the specific context of human use. This networked understanding of technology in terms of social dynamics has relevant implications in designing interventions that use technology to improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark L. Cabling
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Ste. 4100, 20007 Washington DC, USA
| | - Fabrizio Drago
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, 683 Hoes Lane West, Piscataway, NJ 08854 USA
| | - Jeanine Turner
- Communication, Culture & Technology Program, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Georgetown University Car Barn, Suite 311, 3520 Prospect Street, Washington DC , N.W. 20057 USA
| | - Alejandra Hurtado-de-Mendoza
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, 3300 Whitehaven Street, NW, Ste. 4100, 20007 Washington DC, USA
| | - Vanessa B. Sheppard
- Massey Cancer Center, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, 401 College Street, Box 980037, Richmond, VA 23298-0037 USA
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15
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Hotait ZS, Lo Cascio JN, Choos END, Shepard BD. The sugar daddy: the role of the renal proximal tubule in glucose homeostasis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C791-C803. [PMID: 35912988 PMCID: PMC9448277 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00225.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Renal blood flow represents >20% of total cardiac output and with this comes the great responsibility of maintaining homeostasis through the intricate regulation of solute handling. Through the processes of filtration, reabsorption, and secretion, the kidneys ensure that solutes and other small molecules are either returned to circulation, catabolized within renal epithelial cells, or excreted through the process of urination. Although this occurs throughout the renal nephron, one segment is tasked with the bulk of solute reabsorption-the proximal tubule. Among others, the renal proximal tubule is entirely responsible for the reabsorption of glucose, a critical source of energy that fuels the body. In addition, it is the only other site of gluconeogenesis outside of the liver. When these processes go awry, pathophysiological conditions such as diabetes and acidosis result. In this review, we highlight the recent advances made in understanding these processes that occur within the renal proximal tubule. We focus on the physiological mechanisms at play regarding glucose reabsorption and glucose metabolism, emphasize the conditions that occur under diseased states, and explore the emerging class of therapeutics that are responsible for restoring homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahraa S Hotait
- Department of Human Science, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Julia N Lo Cascio
- Department of Human Science, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Elijah N D Choos
- Department of Human Science, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Blythe D Shepard
- Department of Human Science, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
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16
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Tiek DM, Erdogdu B, Razaghi R, Jin L, Sadowski N, Alamillo-Ferrer C, Hogg JR, Haddad BR, Drewry DH, Wells CI, Pickett JE, Song X, Goenka A, Hu B, Goldlust SA, Zuercher WJ, Pertea M, Timp W, Cheng SY, Riggins RB. Temozolomide-induced guanine mutations create exploitable vulnerabilities of guanine-rich DNA and RNA regions in drug-resistant gliomas. Sci Adv 2022; 8:eabn3471. [PMID: 35731869 PMCID: PMC9216507 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abn3471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Temozolomide (TMZ) is a chemotherapeutic agent that has been the first-line standard of care for the aggressive brain cancer glioblastoma (GBM) since 2005. Although initially beneficial, TMZ resistance is universal and second-line interventions are an unmet clinical need. Here, we took advantage of the known mechanism of action of TMZ to target guanines (G) and investigated G-rich G-quadruplex (G4) and splice site changes that occur upon TMZ resistance. We report that TMZ-resistant GBM has guanine mutations that disrupt the G-rich DNA G4s and splice sites that lead to deregulated alternative splicing. These alterations create vulnerabilities, which are selectively targeted by either the G4-stabilizing drug TMPyP4 or a novel splicing kinase inhibitor of cdc2-like kinase. Last, we show that the G4 and RNA binding protein EWSR1 aggregates in the cytoplasm in TMZ-resistant GBM cells and patient samples. Together, our findings provide insight into targetable vulnerabilities of TMZ-resistant GBM and present cytoplasmic EWSR1 as a putative biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deanna M. Tiek
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Beril Erdogdu
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Roham Razaghi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Lu Jin
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Norah Sadowski
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Carla Alamillo-Ferrer
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - J. Robert Hogg
- Biochemistry and Biophysics Center, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
| | - Bassem R. Haddad
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - David H. Drewry
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
- UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Carrow I. Wells
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Julie E. Pickett
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Xiao Song
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Anshika Goenka
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Bo Hu
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Samuel A. Goldlust
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- John Theurer Cancer Center, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ 07601, USA
| | - William J. Zuercher
- Structural Genomics Consortium, UNC Eshelman School of Pharmacy, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
| | - Mihaela Pertea
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Winston Timp
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Shi-Yuan Cheng
- The Ken and Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, and Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Rebecca B. Riggins
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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Jiang X, Dahmani S, Bronshteyn M, Yang FN, Ryan JP, Gallagher RC, Damera SR, Kumar PN, Moore DJ, Ellis RJ, Turkeltaub PE. Cingulate transcranial direct current stimulation in adults with HIV. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269491. [PMID: 35658059 PMCID: PMC9165807 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269491] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuronal dysfunction plays an important role in the high prevalence of HIV-associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND) in people with HIV (PWH). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)-with its capability to improve neuronal function-may have the potential to serve as an alternative therapeutic approach for HAND. Brain imaging and neurobehavioral studies provide converging evidence that injury to the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) is highly prevalent and contributes to HAND in PWH, suggesting that ACC may serve as a potential neuromodulation target for HAND. Here we conducted a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, partial crossover pilot study to test the safety, tolerability, and potential efficacy of anodal tDCS over cingulate cortex in adults with HIV, with a focus on the dorsal ACC (dACC). METHODS Eleven PWH (47-69 years old, 2 females, 100% African Americans, disease duration 16-36 years) participated in the study, which had two phases, Phase 1 and Phase 2. During Phase 1, participants were randomized to receive ten sessions of sham (n = 4) or cingulate tDCS (n = 7) over the course of 2-3 weeks. Treatment assignments were unknown to the participants and the technicians. Neuropsychology and MRI data were collected from four additional study visits to assess treatment effects, including one baseline visit (BL, prior to treatment) and three follow-up visits (FU1, FU2, and FU3, approximately 1 week, 3 weeks, and 3 months after treatment, respectively). Treatment assignment was unblinded after FU3. Participants in the sham group repeated the study with open-label cingulate tDCS during Phase 2. Statistical analysis was limited to data from Phase 1. RESULTS Compared to sham tDCS, cingulate tDCS led to a decrease in Perseverative Errors in Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST), but not Non-Perseverative Errors, as well as a decrease in the ratio score of Trail Making Test-Part B (TMT-B) to TMT-Part A (TMT-A). Seed-to-voxel analysis with resting state functional MRI data revealed an increase in functional connectivity between the bilateral dACC and a cluster in the right dorsal striatum after cingulate tDCS. There were no differences in self-reported discomfort ratings between sham and cingulate tDCS. CONCLUSIONS Cingulate tDCS is safe and well-tolerated in PWH, and may have the potential to improve cognitive performance and brain function. A future study with a larger sample is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiong Jiang
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Sophia Dahmani
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Margarita Bronshteyn
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Fan Nils Yang
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - John Paul Ryan
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - R. Craig Gallagher
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Srikanth R. Damera
- Department of Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Princy N. Kumar
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - David J. Moore
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Ronald J. Ellis
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States of America
- Department of Neurosciences, University of California, San Diego, CA, United States of America
| | - Peter E. Turkeltaub
- Department of Neurology and Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
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18
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Martin KC, Seydell-Greenwald A, Berl MM, Gaillard WD, Turkeltaub PE, Newport EL. A Weak Shadow of Early Life Language Processing Persists in the Right Hemisphere of the Mature Brain. Neurobiol Lang (Camb) 2022; 3:364-385. [PMID: 35686116 PMCID: PMC9169899 DOI: 10.1162/nol_a_00069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Studies of language organization show a striking change in cerebral dominance for language over development: We begin life with a left hemisphere (LH) bias for language processing, which is weaker than that in adults and which can be overcome if there is a LH injury. Over development this LH bias becomes stronger and can no longer be reversed. Prior work has shown that this change results from a significant reduction in the magnitude of language activation in right hemisphere (RH) regions in adults compared to children. Here we investigate whether the spatial distribution of language activation, albeit weaker in magnitude, still persists in homotopic RH regions of the mature brain. Children aged 4-13 (n = 39) and young adults (n = 14) completed an auditory sentence comprehension fMRI (functional magnetic resonance imaging) task. To equate neural activity across the hemispheres, we applied fixed cutoffs for the number of active voxels that would be included in each hemisphere for each participant. To evaluate homotopicity, we generated left-right flipped versions of each activation map, calculated spatial overlap between the LH and RH activity in frontal and temporal regions, and tested for mean differences in the spatial overlap values between the age groups. We found that, in children as well as in adults, there was indeed a spatially intact shadow of language activity in the right frontal and temporal regions homotopic to the LH language regions. After a LH stroke in adulthood, recovering early-life activation in these regions might assist in enhancing recovery of language abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly C. Martin
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
| | - Anna Seydell-Greenwald
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Madison M. Berl
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - William D. Gaillard
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- Children’s National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Peter E. Turkeltaub
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC
| | - Elissa L. Newport
- Center for Brain Plasticity and Recovery, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC
- MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital, Washington, DC
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19
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Nair S, Attal-Juncqua A, Reddy A, Sorrell EM, Standley CJ. Assessing barriers, opportunities and future directions in health information sharing in humanitarian contexts: a mixed-method study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e053042. [PMID: 35379617 PMCID: PMC8981313 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-053042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Health information sharing continues to play a crucial yet underappreciated role in humanitarian settings, to guide evidence-based disease prevention, detection and response. We conducted a mixed-methods study to investigate and analyse existing approaches and practices to health information sharing across humanitarian settings over the past 20 years. SETTING We sought to identify studies from any self-described humanitarian setting worldwide, and also targeted experts familiar with refugee settings, specifically long-term camps in Kenya, Jordan and Bangladesh, for key informant interviews. PARTICIPANTS The systematic review did not directly involve participants. The identified reports were largely retrospective and observational, and focused on populations affected by humanitarian crises worldwide. Participants in the key informant interviews were experts with either broad geographical expertise or direct experience in refugee camp settings. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Our study was qualitative, and both the systematic review and analysis of key informant interview responses focused on identifying themes related to barriers, tools and recommendations used between stakeholders to share health information, with a particular emphasis on infectious disease and surveillance data. RESULTS We identified logistical challenges, difficulties with data collection and a lack of health information sharing frameworks as the most significant barriers to health information sharing. The most important tools to health information sharing included the use of third-party technologies for data collection and standardisation, formalised health information sharing frameworks, establishment of multilevel coordination mechanisms and leadership initiatives which prioritised the sharing of health information. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that health information sharing can be strengthened in humanitarian settings with improvements to existing frameworks, coordination and leadership tools, in addition to promotion of health information communication. Furthermore, specific recommendations for improving health information sharing should be pursued according to the nature of the humanitarian setting and the efficacy of the health system present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuait Nair
- Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Aurelia Attal-Juncqua
- Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Aashna Reddy
- School of Nursing and Health Studies, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Erin M Sorrell
- Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
- Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Claire J Standley
- Center for Global Health Science and Security, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Steimle S, Gassman‐Pines A, Johnson AD, Hines CT, Ryan RM. Understanding patterns of food insecurity and family well-being amid the COVID-19 pandemic using daily surveys. Child Dev 2021; 92:e781-e797. [PMID: 34435668 PMCID: PMC8653334 DOI: 10.1111/cdev.13659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
This paper investigates economic and psychological hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic among a diverse sample (61% Latinx; 16% White; 9% Black; 14% mixed/other race) of socioeconomically disadvantaged parents (90% mothers; mean age = 35 years) and their elementary school-aged children (ages 4-11; 49% female) in rural Pennsylvania (N = 272). Families participating in a local food assistance program reported on food insecurity (FI) and parent and child mood and behavior daily from January to May 2020. Longitudinal models revealed that FI, negative parent and child mood, and child misbehavior significantly increased when schools closed; only FI and parent depression later decreased. FI decreased most among those who received the local food assistance program; Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program receipt uniquely predicted decreases in child FI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Steimle
- Department of PsychologyGeorgetown UniversityWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | | | - Anna D. Johnson
- Department of PsychologyGeorgetown UniversityWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Caitlin T. Hines
- Department of PsychologyGeorgetown UniversityWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
| | - Rebecca M. Ryan
- Department of PsychologyGeorgetown UniversityWashingtonDistrict of ColumbiaUSA
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21
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Jones D, Watts TA, Gavvalapalli N. Role of Aryl Amphiphile Hydrophobe Size on the Concentration and Stability of Graphene Nanoplatelet Dispersions. ACS Omega 2021; 6:20068-20075. [PMID: 34368591 PMCID: PMC8340392 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.1c03126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) are stable and relatively inexpensive compared to single-layer graphene sheets and carbon nanotubes and are useful in diverse electronic, optoelectronic, and mechanical applications. Solution-state processing of the active material is desired in most of the applications mentioned above, and thus, there is great interest in increasing the concentration and stability of GNP suspension. Herein, to elucidate the role of the stabilizer structural parameters on the concentration and stability of GNP dispersions, we synthesized and used a series of aryl amphiphiles (ArAs) of varying aryl hydrophobe sizes and geometries. The ArAs were found to generate GNP dispersions with concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.13 mg mL-1 depending on the size of the aryl hydrophobe. The ArAs' hydrophobe size played a key role in determining the concentration of GNP suspension, while ArAs' critical aggregation concentration and solubility limits had no impact on the GNP suspension concentration. Most of the studied ArAs work similar to methylcellulose, the previously reported best performing stabilizer . Moreover, the ArAs stabilized the GNP suspension better than methylcellulose and were able to form stable dispersions for up to 6 h. Raman studies indicate that the quality of the GNPs did not degrade during the dispersion process. These findings will aid in the development of design rules for next-generation stabilizers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorothy
K. Jones
- Department
of Chemistry and Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, 3700 Ost NW, Washington, D.C. 20057, United
States
| | - Taylor A. Watts
- Department
of Chemistry and Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, 3700 Ost NW, Washington, D.C. 20057, United
States
| | - Nagarjuna Gavvalapalli
- Department
of Chemistry and Institute for Soft Matter Synthesis and Metrology, Georgetown University, 3700 Ost NW, Washington, D.C. 20057, United
States
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22
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Jones JM, Korula R. A Mixed Methods Exploration of Factors That Influence Student Participation in Optional Formative Review Quizzes. Med Sci Educ 2021; 31:1401-1410. [PMID: 34055460 PMCID: PMC8143743 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-021-01321-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Weekly formative Review Quizzes are an integral feature of the Georgetown University School of Medicine assessment program. The Quizzes offer students an opportunity to test themselves in a low-stakes setting and then discuss their answers with peers in small groups; faculty are also present to help the groups with difficult problems. Methods We conducted a mixed methods study in which we monitored quiz attendance over the course of the first four curricular blocks, deployed a study specific survey, and held focus groups to determine the factors that influenced quiz participation and how students perceived that the quiz contributed to their learning. Results We observed that Quiz attendance, while initially robust, dropped steadily over the course of the year. Nearly all students reported that the practice questions along with faculty explanations contributed strongly to their learning. Fewer students felt that discussion with their peers was valuable, but those who valued peer discussion were significantly more likely to attend the quiz in person. The two things cited most often as barriers to quiz attendance were inconvenience and lack of adequate preparation. Many students reported that they saved questions and did not attempt to answer them until they had completed study of that subject. Discussion Our results indicate that while there is ample evidence that early review and discussion with peers can contribute to learning, learners do not always recognize the value in this practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica M. Jones
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Road, Washington DC, NW 20057 USA
| | - Rechna Korula
- Georgetown University School of Medicine, 3900 Reservoir Road, Washington DC, NW 20057 USA
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23
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Kolber AJ. The End of Liberty. Crim Law Philos 2021; 15:407-424. [PMID: 33995689 PMCID: PMC8113001 DOI: 10.1007/s11572-021-09568-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Theorists treat liberty as a great equalizer. We can't easily distribute equal welfare, but we can purport to distribute equal liberty. In fact, however, nothing about "equal liberty" is meaningfully equal. To demonstrate, I turn not to familiar cases of distributing positive goods but to the distribution of a negative good, namely carceral punishment. Many theorists believe we should impose proportional punishment by depriving offenders of liberty in proportion to their blameworthiness. In this manner, equally blameworthy offenders are said to receive equal punishment when incarcerated for the same period of time. Equal periods of incarceration do not yield equal punishments, however, because liberty cannot serve as the great equalizer theorists hope for. Pretending it can prevents us from justifying the full harms of punishment or leads to such counterintuitive results that it makes proportional punishment an unattractive goal.
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24
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O’Connell K, Berluti K, Rhoads SA, Marsh AA. Reduced social distancing early in the COVID-19 pandemic is associated with antisocial behaviors in an online United States sample. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0244974. [PMID: 33412567 PMCID: PMC7790541 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Antisocial behaviors cause harm, directly or indirectly, to others' welfare. The novel coronavirus pandemic has increased the urgency of understanding a specific form of antisociality: behaviors that increase risk of disease transmission. Because disease transmission-linked behaviors tend to be interpreted and responded to differently than other antisocial behaviors, it is unclear whether general indices of antisociality predict contamination-relevant behaviors. In a pre-registered study using an online U.S. sample, we found that individuals reporting high levels of antisociality engage in fewer social distancing measures: they report leaving their homes more frequently (p = .024) and standing closer to others while outside (p < .001). These relationships were observed after controlling for sociodemographic variables, illness risk, and use of protective equipment. Independently, higher education and leaving home for work were also associated with reduced distancing behavior. Antisociality was not significantly associated with level of worry about the coronavirus. These findings suggest that more antisocial individuals may pose health risks to themselves and their community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine O’Connell
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Kathryn Berluti
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Shawn A. Rhoads
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Abigail A. Marsh
- Department of Psychology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, United States of America
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25
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Fowler AJ, Hebron M, Balaraman K, Shi W, Missner AA, Greenzaid JD, Chiu TL, Ullman C, Weatherdon E, Duka V, Torres-Yaghi Y, Pagan FL, Liu X, Ressom H, Ahn J, Wolf C, Moussa C. Discoidin Domain Receptor 1 is a therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases. Hum Mol Genet 2020; 29:2882-2898. [PMID: 32776088 PMCID: PMC7566445 DOI: 10.1093/hmg/ddaa177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of Discoidin Domain Receptors (DDRs) is poorly understood in neurodegeneration. DDRs are upregulated in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease (PD), and DDRs knockdown reduces neurotoxic protein levels. Here we show that potent and preferential DDR1 inhibitors reduce neurotoxic protein levels in vitro and in vivo. Partial or complete deletion or inhibition of DDR1 in a mouse model challenged with α-synuclein increases autophagy and reduces inflammation and neurotoxic proteins. Significant changes of cerebrospinal fluid microRNAs that control inflammation, neuronal injury, autophagy and vesicular transport genes are observed in PD with and without dementia and Lewy body dementia, but these changes are attenuated or reversed after treatment with the DDR1 inhibitor, nilotinib. Collectively, these data demonstrate that DDR1 regulates autophagy and reduces neurotoxic proteins and inflammation and is a therapeutic target in neurodegeneration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan J Fowler
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Georgetown Howard Universities Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences, Translational Biomedical Sciences Program, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Michaeline Hebron
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Kaluvu Balaraman
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University and Medicinal Chemistry Shared Resource, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Wangke Shi
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Alexander A Missner
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Jonathan D Greenzaid
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Timothy L Chiu
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Clementina Ullman
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Ethan Weatherdon
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Val Duka
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Yasar Torres-Yaghi
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Fernando L Pagan
- MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Movement Disorders Clinic, Department of Neurology, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Xiaoguang Liu
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Habtom Ressom
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Jaeil Ahn
- Department of Bioinformatics, Biostatistics, and Biomathematics, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Christian Wolf
- Department of Chemistry, Georgetown University and Medicinal Chemistry Shared Resource, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
| | - Charbel Moussa
- Department of Neurology, Translational Neurotherapeutics Program, Laboratory for Dementia and Parkinsonism, Lewy Body Dementia Association, Research Center of Excellence, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
- Interdisciplinary Program in Neuroscience, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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26
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League A, Donato KM, Sheth N, Selden E, Patel S, Cooper LB, Mendenhall E. A Systematic Review of Medical-Legal Partnerships Serving Immigrant Communities in the United States. J Immigr Minor Health 2020; 23:163-174. [PMID: 32978741 PMCID: PMC7518399 DOI: 10.1007/s10903-020-01088-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The medical-legal partnership addresses social and political determinants of health. Yet, relatively little is known about best practices for these two service providers collaborating to deliver integrated services, particularly to im/migrant communities. To investigate evaluations of existing medical-legal partnerships in order to understand how they function together, what they provide, and how they define and deliver equitable, integrated care. We searched five databases (PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, HeinOnline, and Nexus Uni) using search terms related to “medical-legal partnerships”, “migrants”, and “United States”. We systematically evaluated ten themes related to how medical and legal teams interacted, were situated, organized, and who they served. Articles were published in English between 2010 and 2019; required discussion about a direct partnership between medical and legal professionals; and focused on providing clinical care and legal services to im/migrant populations. Eighteen articles met our inclusion criteria. The most common form of partnership was a model in which legal clinics make regular referrals to medical clinics, although the reverse was also common. Most services were not co-located. Partnerships often engaged in advocacy work, provided translation services, and referred clients to non-medical providers and legal services. This review demonstrates the benefits of a legal-medical partnership, such as enhancing documentation and care for im/migrants and facilitating a greater attention to political determinants of health. Yet, this review demonstrates that, despite the increasing salience of such partnership, few have written up their lessons learned and best practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery League
- Science, Technology, and International Affairs Program, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, 513 Intercultural Center, 37th and O Street, NW, Washington, D.C, 20057, USA
| | - Katharine M Donato
- Institute for the Study of International Migration, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Nima Sheth
- Department of Psychiatry, Georgetown University Medical Center, and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Elizabeth Selden
- Department of Medicine, Georgetown University Medical Center, and MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, D.C, USA
| | - Sheetal Patel
- Independent Psychology Practice, Washington, D.C, USA
| | | | - Emily Mendenhall
- Science, Technology, and International Affairs Program, Edmund A. Walsh School of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, 513 Intercultural Center, 37th and O Street, NW, Washington, D.C, 20057, USA.
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27
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Cameron D, Dromerick LJ, Ahn J, Dromerick AW. Executive/life coaching for first year medical students: a prospective study. BMC Med Educ 2019; 19:163. [PMID: 31118014 PMCID: PMC6530029 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-019-1564-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Student physicians are particularly prone to high rates of poor mental and physical quality of life, including depression, anxiety, and fatigue. We prospectively tested whether a structured, theory-based executive/life coaching program tailored to first year medical students in the United States was feasible, tolerable, and would be recommended by participants. Secondary goals included impact on coaching goals, resilience, and perceived stress. METHODS This single-arm intervention study evaluated a program of two group and two private coaching sessions during the first year, second semester of the Georgetown University School of Medicine Class of 2019. Survey data (global and tailored questions, Connor-Davidson resilience scale, Friedricksson-Larsson stress question) were collected from participants at baseline and post-intervention. RESULTS 37/40 students completed the intervention; 32 completed the pre-post surveys. Most (32/37) were willing to recommend the program (16/37 were very willing) and 29/37 recommended inclusion in the curriculum. Responses to tailored questions showed significant increases in self-efficacy regarding stress management (p < 0.001); increased awareness of thoughts about stress and management of those thoughts (p = 0.05). Reported improvements in time management (p = 0.10) and energy for relationships and school (p = 0.089) did not achieve significance. Global resilience rating was not different (p = 0.186), but significant changes were seen in control (p = 0.029) and spiritual influence (p = 0.005) factors. Although the Friedricksson-Larsson item was not significantly different (p = 0.242), 40.6% of participants reported decreased stress and 40.6% reported unchanged stress during this most challenging preclinical semester. Substantial ceiling effects were seen in study measures. CONCLUSIONS We showed that a tailored executive/life coaching program for first year medical students in the United States is feasible, tolerable, and safe; adherence was excellent. Global utility ratings and willingness to recommend coaching provide substantial support for efficacy. Better measures and larger-scale clinical trial designs are needed for formal proof.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna Cameron
- Department of Family Medicine, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007 USA
| | | | - Jaeil Ahn
- Department of Biostatistics, Bioinformatics & Biomathematics, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007 USA
| | - Alexander W. Dromerick
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, MedStar National Rehabilitation Network, Georgetown University, 102 Irving Street NW, Washington, DC 20010 USA
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28
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Maimouni S, Issa N, Cheng S, Ouaari C, Cheema A, Kumar D, Byers S. Tumor suppressor RARRES1- A novel regulator of fatty acid metabolism in epithelial cells. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0208756. [PMID: 30557378 PMCID: PMC6296515 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0208756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Retinoic acid receptor responder 1 (RARRES1) is silenced in many cancers and is differentially expressed in metabolism associated diseases, such as hepatic steatosis, hyperinsulinemia and obesity. Here we report a novel function of RARRES1 in metabolic reprogramming of epithelial cells. Using non-targeted LC-MS, we discovered that RARRES1 depletion in epithelial cells caused a global increase in lipid synthesis. RARRES1-depleted cells rewire glucose metabolism by switching from aerobic glycolysis to glucose-dependent de novo lipogenesis (DNL). Treatment with fatty acid synthase (FASN) inhibitor, C75, reversed the effects of RARRES1 depletion. The increased DNL in RARRES1-depleted normal breast and prostate epithelial cells proved advantageous to the cells during starvation, as the increase in fatty acid availability lead to more oxidized fatty acids (FAO), which were used for mitochondrial respiration. Expression of RARRES1 in several common solid tumors is also contextually correlated with expression of fatty acid metabolism genes and fatty acid-regulated transcription factors. Pathway enrichment analysis led us to determine that RARRES1 is regulated by peroxisome proliferating activated receptor (PPAR) signaling. These findings open up a new avenue for metabolic reprogramming and identify RARRES1 as a potential target for cancers and other diseases with impaired fatty acid metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Maimouni
- Department of Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Naiem Issa
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Selina Cheng
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Chokri Ouaari
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- University of the District of Columbia, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Amrita Cheema
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
| | - Deepak Kumar
- Julius L. Chambers Biomedical Biotechnology Research Institute, North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - Stephen Byers
- Department of Biochemical, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- Georgetown-Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
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29
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Hayoz S, Tiwari PB, Piszczek G, Üren A, Brelidze TI. Investigating cyclic nucleotide and cyclic dinucleotide binding to HCN channels by surface plasmon resonance. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185359. [PMID: 28950029 PMCID: PMC5614581 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 09/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Hyperpolarization-activated cyclic nucleotide-modulated (HCN) channels control cardiac and neuronal rhythmicity. HCN channels contain cyclic nucleotide-binding domain (CNBD) in their C-terminal region linked to the pore-forming transmembrane segment with a C-linker. The C-linker couples the conformational changes caused by the direct binding of cyclic nucleotides to the HCN pore opening. Recently, cyclic dinucleotides were shown to antagonize the effect of cyclic nucleotides in HCN4 but not in HCN2 channels. Based on the structural analysis and mutational studies it has been proposed that cyclic dinucleotides affect HCN4 channels by binding to the C-linker pocket (CLP). Here, we first show that surface plasmon resonance (SPR) can be used to accurately measure cyclic nucleotide binding affinity to the C-linker/CNBD of HCN2 and HCN4 channels. We then used SPR to investigate cyclic dinucleotide binding in HCN channels. To our surprise, we detected no binding of cyclic dinucleotides to the isolated monomeric C-linker/CNBDs of HCN4 channels with SPR. The binding of cyclic dinucleotides was further examined with isothermal calorimetry (ITC), which indicated no binding of cyclic dinucleotides to both monomeric and tetrameric C-linker/CNBDs of HCN4 channels. Taken together, our results suggest that interaction of the C-linker/CNBD with other parts of the channel is necessary for cyclic-dinucleotide binding in HCN4 channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastien Hayoz
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Purushottam B. Tiwari
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Grzegorz Piszczek
- Biophysics Core, National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States of America
| | - Aykut Üren
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
| | - Tinatin I. Brelidze
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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O’Connor B, Pollner F, Fugh-Berman A. Salespeople in the Surgical Suite: Relationships between Surgeons and Medical Device Representatives. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0158510. [PMID: 27486992 PMCID: PMC4972437 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Industry payments to surgeons have received public attention, but little is known about the relationships between surgeons and medical device representatives. Medical device representatives ("device reps") have become an integral part of operating room personnel. The effect of their presence on patient care deserves discussion. Study Design We conducted a qualitative, ethnographic study to explore relationships between surgeons and medical device representatives, and characterize industry involvement in the training of surgeons. We used group and individual open-ended interviews to gain insight into the beliefs, values, and perspectives of surgeons and device reps. We conducted two focus groups, one with ear, nose, and throat surgeons, and one with hospital-based attending orthopedic surgeons. We also conducted individual interviews with three former or current medical device representatives, a director of a surgical residency program at an academic medical center, and a medical assistant for a multi-physician orthopedic practice. Results While surgeons view themselves as indisputably in charge, device reps work hard to make themselves unobtrusively indispensable in order to establish and maintain influence, and to imbue the products they provide with personalized services that foster a surgeon's loyalty to the reps and their companies. Surgeons view industry-funded training opportunities as a necessary service. Device reps and some surgeons believe that reps benefit patient care, by increasing efficiency and mitigating deficiencies among operating room personnel (including the surgeons themselves). Conclusions Our study raises ethical questions about the reliance of surgeons on device reps and device companies for education and surgical assistance and practical concerns regarding existing levels of competence among OR personnel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie O’Connor
- Alpert School of Medicine, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, United States of America
| | - Fran Pollner
- Retired Journalist, Takoma Park, Maryland, United States of America
| | - Adriane Fugh-Berman
- Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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31
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Mallory HS, Howard AF, Weiss MR. Timing of Environmental Enrichment Affects Memory in the House Cricket, Acheta domesticus. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0152245. [PMID: 27058038 PMCID: PMC4825976 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0152245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Learning appears to be ubiquitous among animals, as it plays a key role in many behaviors including foraging and reproduction. Although there is some genetic basis for differences in learning ability and memory retention, environment also plays an important role, as it does for any other trait. For example, adult animals maintained in enriched housing conditions learn faster and remember tasks for longer than animals maintained in impoverished conditions. Such plasticity in adult learning ability has often been linked to plasticity in the brain, and studies aimed at understanding the mechanisms, stimuli, and consequences of adult behavioral and brain plasticity are numerous. However, the role of experiences during post-embryonic development in shaping plasticity in adult learning ability and memory retention remain relatively unexplored. Using the house cricket (Acheta domesticus) as a model organism, we developed a protocol to allow the odor preference of a large number of crickets to be tested in a short period of time. We then used this new protocol to examine how enrichment or impoverishment at two developmental stages (either the last nymphal instar or young adult) affected adult memory. Our results show that regardless of nymphal rearing conditions, crickets that experienced an enriched rearing condition as young adults performed better on a memory task than individuals that experienced an impoverished condition. Older adult crickets (more than 1 week post adult molt) did not demonstrate differences in memory of the odor task, regardless of rearing condition as a young adult. Our results suggest that environmentally-induced plasticity in memory may be restricted to the young adult stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather S. Mallory
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - Aaron F. Howard
- Department of Biology, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, Illinois, United States of America
| | - Martha R. Weiss
- Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, D. C., United States of America
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