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Advances In Mechanical Circulatory Support (Mcs): Literature Review, Jasmine K. Dugal, Arpinder S. Malhi, Yuvraj Singh, Rooz Razmi, Joshua Vance, Divyansh Sharma

Department of Internal Medicine Faculty Research

Heart failure is a heterogeneous disorder that can lead to cardiogenic shock. Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) devices can replace the cardiac function in an attempt to bridge patients to transplant or they can serve as destination therapy to improve overall patient functionality and in turn quality of life. Currently utilized MCS devices include devices such as Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs), Biventricular Assist Devices (BiVADs), Impella, Total Artificial Hearts (TAHs), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). This literature review examines a range of studies, case reports, and meta-analyses to present current approaches to mechanical circulatory support (MCS), along with the challenges …

Chemical And Physical Characterization Of Verbenaceae Essential Oils Using Modern Analytical Methods And Chemometrics, Aleksandra N. Hilliard

Master's Theses

Essential oils have been used for generations to treat various health issues, including mitigating insomnia, reducing stress, inflammation, and preserving foods, to mention a few. Essential oils have complex chemistry, which defines the essence of the host plant. Recently, increased commercial uses of essential oils have prompted attention at the governmental level to monitor the chemical, physical, or biological activity of essential oils. This study is an attempt to add new information for consumers to the understanding of the composition of essential oils.

Modern analytical techniques including FTIR-ATR, GC-MS, LC-MS-MS, multivariate analysis statistics, and physio-chemical techniques (electrochemistry, DPPH, TRC, and …

Stability And Dna Methyltransferase Activity Of Dnmt3a Are Maintained By Ubiquitin-Specific Peptidase 11 (Usp11) And Sumoylation Countering Degradation, Taishi Yonezawa, Justine C Rutter, Raghav Ramabadran, Venkatasubramaniam Sundaramurthy, Gandhar Datar, Mikolaj Slabicki, Margaret A Goodell

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

DNA methyltransferase 3A (DNMT3A) plays crucial roles in mammalian development and hematopoiesis. DNMT3A protein instability is associated with blood diseases such as myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), acute myeloid leukemia (AML), as well as Tatton-Brown-Rahman syndrome, an overgrowth disorder. We found that certain unstable DNMT3A mutations cause DNMT3A localization changes, resulting in loss of function. This mislocalization is partially rescued by E1 enzyme inhibition or stable USP11 expression, as DNMT3A stability is maintained by deubiquitinating enzyme USP11 countering degradation by CUL4-DCAF8 E3 ligase. We also found that USP11 enhances DNMT3A SUMOylation by promoting the interaction between DNMT3A and SUMO E3 ligases. DNMT3A …

Il-7 Armed Binary Car T Cell Strategy To Augment Potency Against Solid Tumors, Alejandro G Torres Chavez, Mary K Mckenna, Anmol Gupta, Neha Daga, Juan Vera, Ann M Leen, Pradip Bajgain

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Clinical studies of T cells engineered with chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) targeting CD19 in B-cell malignancies have demonstrated that relapse due to target antigen (CD19) loss or limited CAR T cell persistence is a common occurrence. The possibility of such events is greater in solid tumors, which typically display more heterogeneous antigen expression patterns and are known to directly suppress effector cell proliferation and persistence. T cell engineering strategies to overcome these barriers are being explored. However, strategies to simultaneously address both antigen heterogeneity and T cell longevity, while localizing anti-tumor effects at disease sites, remain limited. In this study …

Evaluation Of Antimicrobial And Wound Healing Activities Of Jatropha Podagrica Extracts, Reawfang Sriyom, Arunporn Itharat, Onmanee Prajuabjinda, Sumalee Panthong, Pakakrong Thongdeeying, Metar Siriwattanasathorn, Maneewan Panthong, Neal M. Davies

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Jatropha podagrica has been traditionally used to treat skin infections and promote wound healing. However, there is currently no scientific research validating its antimicrobial or wound-healing properties.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and wound-healing activities of various extracts from all parts of J. podagrica, using different solvents. In addition, the chemical composition of the most effective extract was analyzed by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS).

Materials and Methods: The leaves, stem, and root of J. podagrica were extracted using hexane, 95% ethanol, ethanol-soluble hexane residue, and aqueous decoction. The antimicrobial effects of the extracts were assessed …

The Use Of Health And Herbal Products For Covid-19 Self-Prevention And Its Affecting Factors According To Theory Of Planned Behavior, Suppachai Insuk, Supanida Kittirattanasak, Mullika Sirithongkaset, Daranee Chiewchantanakit

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Introduction: Despite the World Health Organization’s recent declaration of the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, the lessons learned from the outbreak remain crucial for future public health responses. In Thailand, the pandemic’s impact led individuals to explore self-protection methods, including potentially ineffective health products. This study examined the prevalence of health and herbal products used for COVID-19 self-prevention, to identify the types of these products in use and to identify factors influencing their utilization.

Methods: A cross-sectional study surveyed 400 Thai participants aged 25–60 who had never contracted COVID-19. The study employed convenience sampling and self-administered online questionnaires based on …

Mechanistic Insights And Clinical Benefits Of Omega-3 Fatty Acids In Cardiovascular, Inflammatory, And Neurological Health, Anosh Tahir, Afshan Siddiq

The Thai Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Background: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 PUFAs), particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) are attributed with the capacity to prevent cardiovascular diseases (CVD), chronic inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases. Their bioactive contribution consists on interfering with lipid metabolism, decreasing inflammation, and increasing neuroprotection. Still, the findings imply that there is a considerable need for greater clarification of their mechanisms and their application to clinical care.

Objectives: This narrative review is intended to discuss the potential target(s) of action, uses, and efficacy of ω-3 PUFAs in the context of CVD, inflammation, and neurodegenerative diseases.

Materials and Methods: This narrative review …

Usefulness Of Homoeopathic Medicine Lachesis Mutus In Treating Cervical Dystonia: A Case Report, Kamlesh P. Kakde, Vinaya Ganesan Iyer

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Cervical dystonia is a neurological disorder characterised by painful, involuntary muscular spasms affecting the neck and head. It is commonly of idiopathic origin and associated with a poor prognosis. Conventional management typically includes botulinum toxin administration or surgical interventions, which provide only partial relief and are often accompanied by symptom recurrence. Emerging evidence suggests that individualised homoeopathic treatment may offer superior efficacy in such cases. Case Summary: A 40-year-old male came to the clinic with pre-diagnosed condition of cervical dystonia for four years. Complete Repertory was utilised for remedy analysis and confirmation, which led to the prescription of …

Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment Of Paranoid Schizophrenia With Potentised Phosphorus – A Case Report, R. Bhuvaneswari, Vaiyapuri Sakthivel

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Background: Paranoid schizophrenia is a severe mental disorder that affects approximately one percent of the world population, with devastating consequences for affected individuals and their families. Homoeopathy could be an effective alternative mode of treatment and can minimise the consequences of it. This case report aimed to highlight the significance of using only individualised homoeopathic medicines in the treatment of paranoid schizophrenia without conventional medicine. Case Summary: A 30-year-old male complained of someone controlling his mind, someone talking about him. He was suspicious of the food he was served, talked and laughed to himself and slept insufficiently. The case …

Effectiveness Of 5% Channa Striata Extract Gel In Wound Healing: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial, Yulia Farida Yahya, Yuli Kurniawati, Erial Bahar, Theresia Lumban Toruan, Soenarto Kartowigno, Muhammad Izazi Hari Purwoko, Tiar Marina Octyvani

Journal of General - Procedural Dermatology and Venereology Indonesia

Background: Snakehead fish (Channa striata, CS) has traditionally been used in Indonesia as a nutrient to promote wound healing. It contains protein highly similar to human protein, which may be involved in wound healing via biological pathways. We aim to determine the effectiveness of the topical 5% CS extract gel in promoting wound healing.

Methods: A double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial was conducted from June to August 2022 at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology, and Aesthetics of Dr. Mohammad Hoesin Hospital. We allocated 32 post-skin surgery participants with grade I acute superficial wounds on the face, neck, …

Dietary Organic Selenium Supplementation Improved Some Gross Morphological Parameters And Biochemical Characteristics Of Testes In Young Male Kids, Nadia Rahim, Moolchand Malhi, Asma Babar, Muhammad Awais Soomro, Shazia Rahim

Journal of Bioresource Management

Selenium (Se) plays a vital role in improving reproductive health in ruminants. This study evaluated the impact of Se supplementation on testicular health in young male goats. Twenty goats (2–3 months old, 8.5–10 kg) were randomly assigned to two groups: Control (C, n=10) receiving a basal diet (0.037 mg Se/kg) and Se-Yeast (SY, n=10) supplemented with 0.3 mg Se/kg diet. The trial lasted eight weeks. Results showed that testis weight was significantly higher in the SY group (26.8 ± 2.5 g) compared to C (22.4 ± 2.1 g, p < 0.05). Testis length, width, and circumference also increased significantly in SY goats (4.5 ± 0.3 cm, 2.9 ± 0.2 cm, and 7.4 ± 0.4 cm, respectively) compared to control (3.9 ± 0.4 cm, 2.5 ± 0.3 cm, and 6.7 ± 0.5 cm; p < 0.05). Serum cholesterol was higher in SY (135.27 ± 2.34 mg/dl) than in C (121.15 ± 8.74 mg/dl, p = 0.02), while triglycerides were lower (95.99 ± 1.37 vs. 114.38 ± 1.84 mg/dl, p = 0.0003). HDL increased (51.97 ± 2.10 vs. 45.02 ± 1.32 mg/dl, p = 0.03), and LDL decreased (54.23 ± 1.81 vs. 61.27 ± 1.56 mg/dl, p = 0.02) in SY group. Total serum protein rose significantly (8.14 ± 0.79 vs. 5.25 ± 0.06 mg/dl, p = 0.03), as did testosterone levels (1.95 ± 0.08 vs. 1.43 ± 0.06 ng/ml, p = 0.002). In conclusion, selenium supplementation significantly improved testicular morphology, lipid profile, protein levels, and testosterone, indicating enhanced reproductive health in goats.

Role Of Individualised Homoeopathic Treatment In A Case Of Secondary Infertility With Uterine Fibroid Treated Through Psychosomatic Approach: A Case Report, Neha Swarup, Mahesh Gupta, Maneesh Mishra, Sanjay Gupta

Indian Journal of Research in Homoeopathy

Introduction: Infertility is the inability of a couple to conceive even after being sexually active for a period of one year. It is a fact that the inability to have one’s own child is a grave concern worldwide. Infertility is a globally prevalent condition, with 8–12% of the world population suffering from it. Infertility in females can be due to several causes, one of them is a uterine anomaly like uterine fibroid. Uterine fibroids are generally considered a structural pathology and mostly managed as a surgical condition. A vast literature review emphasises the importance of psychological factors which can lead …

Comparing Sodium Fusidate And Petrolatum For Electrosurgery-Related Wound Healing: A Double-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial, Firman Parrol, Larisa Paramitha Wibawa, Irma Bernadette Simbolon Sitohang, Siti Rizny Fitriana Saldi

Journal of General - Procedural Dermatology and Venereology Indonesia

Background: Electrosurgery is a common surgical technique used to treat skin tumors. This procedure produces necrotic skin, which might impair the wound healing process, prompting physicians to prescribe topical antibiotics to prevent infection. This study aims to analyze the efficacy of sodium fusidate ointment compared to petrolatum for wound healing after electrosurgery.

Methods: We conducted a double-blind, randomized, controlled study with a within-person design. The inclusion criteria were adult subjects with seborrheic keratosis or acrochordon with a size of 4 mm to 10 mm on the face and neck, with a minimum of 2 lesions. Electrodessication was performed on the …

Mis-Splicing-Derived Neoantigens And Cognate Tcrs In Splicing Factor Mutant Leukemias, Won Jun Kim, Edie I Crosse, Emma De Neef, Inaki Etxeberria, Erich Y Sabio, Eric Wang, Jan Philipp Bewersdorf, Kuan-Ting Lin, Sydney X Lu, Andrea Belleville, Nina Fox, Cynthia Castro, Pu Zhang, Takeshi Fujino, Jennifer Lewis, Jahan Rahman, Beatrice Zhang, Jacob H Winick, Alexander M Lewis, Robert F Stanley, Susan Dewolf, Brigita Meškauskaitė Urben, Meril Takizawa, Tobias Krause, Henrik Molina, Ronan Chaligne, Priya Koppikar, Jeffrey Molldrem, Mathieu Gigoux, Taha Merghoub, Anthony Daniyan, Smita S Chandran, Benjamin D Greenbaum, Christopher A Klebanoff, Robert K Bradley, Omar Abdel-Wahab

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Mutations in RNA splicing factors are prevalent across cancers and generate recurrently mis-spliced mRNA isoforms. Here we identified a series of bona fide neoantigens translated from highly stereotyped splicing alterations promoted by neomorphic, leukemia-associated somatic splicing machinery mutations. We utilized feature-barcoded peptide-MHC dextramers to isolate neoantigen-reactive T cell receptors (TCRs) from healthy donors, patients with active myeloid malignancy, and following curative allogeneic stem cell transplant. Neoantigen-reactive CD8+ T cells were present in the blood of patients with active cancer and had a distinct phenotype from virus-reactive T cells with evidence of impaired cytotoxic function. T cells engineered with TCRs recognizing …

Moving A Maxillary Incisor Across The Midline For Substitution Of Contralateral Missing Incisor In A Multiple Anterior Teeth Missing Patient, Ling-Yu Huang, Chun-Liang Kuo, Chun-Hsiu Yang, Ting-Wei Liu

Taiwanese Journal of Orthodontics

Loss of permanent maxillary incisor causes a significant esthetic problem, and there are various treatment options for rehabilitation. Moving the contralateral tooth across the facial midline for substitution of missing tooth is a possible treatment alternative for closing the maxillary anterior space.

This report presents an unusual treatment for a bimaxillary protrusion patient who typically requires premolar extraction to improve the convex profile. However, due to multiple missing anterior teeth, the left maxillary central incisor was moved across the facial midline to substitute the absent contralateral tooth, resulting in an improved profile after treatment.

The case was an 18-year-old female …

Organ Of Corti Macrophages: A Distinct Group Of Cochlear Macrophages With Potential Roles In Supporting Cell Degeneration And Survival, Mengxiao Ye, Celia Zhang, Dalian Ding, Guang-Di Chen, Henry J. Adler, Rania Sharaf, Bo Hua Hu

Pacific Faculty Work

Macrophages are the primary immune cells in the cochlea, essential for maintaining cochlear homeostasis and orchestrating inflammatory responses to pathological events. Although these cells have been found in various parts of the cochlea, their presence in the organ of Corti, a critical structure for acoustic sensing, remains poorly understood. The present study was designed to examine macrophage responses to ototoxic drug-induced cochlear damage and age-related cochlear degeneration, with a particular focus on the pathological conditions that trigger macrophage recruitment into the organ of Corti. We used a model of ototoxicity induced by cyclodextrin, a cyclic oligosaccharide known for its ability …

Pulse: Full Issue Download

Quill & Scope

Dear Readers,

I am the soothing beat you hear when your head hits the pillow at night.
I am louder in the silence when you want to be alone with your thoughts.
I am not just a measurement made up of red pixels on a screen.
I keep you alive.
Steady. Persistent.
Who am I?

Pulse. It is one of the first things we check for life. It’s the subtle thrill beneath the surface that reminds us we are here, and we are moving forward. In medicine, the pulse is not just a vital sign; it’s a symbol of …

Why Gen Z Is More Anxious Than Ever? Turning To Social Chats For Answers, Yi Luo, Jin-A Choi, Bond Benton

College of Communication and Media Scholarship and Creative Works

As social media has evolved into a prominent part of Gen Z’s social interaction, this study attempted to enrich our current understanding of Gen Z’s mental health struggles through their conversations surrounding anxiety on social media. Highlights of the findings included the following. First, the overwhelming presence of fear (83%) illustrates that anxiety is an emotionally draining experience for many Gen Z users. The use of emotionally charged language to publicly share their struggles with anxiety reflect increasing self-awareness and a cultural shift toward normalizing mental health conversations. Second, the open, candid conversations on anxiety indicate that anxiety is experienced …

Pharmaceutical Innovation Through Computational Drug Design: A Comprehensive Exploration, Manasa Chandramouli, Madhusudhan Heggadadevanakote Surendra

Makara Journal of Science

Chemical biology and computer-aided drug design (CADD) are crucial for identifying and optimizing lead molecules in drug development. Chemical biology is employed to determine the biological function of the target and the mode of action of a chemical modulator. At the same time, in CADD, promising candidate medications are identified based on the structure of the target or known bioactive ligands. Structure-based and ligand-based drug designs should be used in tandem, and their integration with experimental methods can considerably accelerate drug design. Furthermore, the use of CADD along with conventional experimental approaches increases the efficiency and accuracy of the discovery …

Synthesis Of Carboxymethyl Cellulose From Nypa Fruticans For Coating Metformin On Zn-Based Metal-Organic Framework Nanohybrid As A Bionanocomposite Drug Delivery System, Delviani Delviani, Viola Giary Rizkillah Maharani, Putri Nur Shadrina, Tri Warni, Regina Wan Azizah, Indra Lasmana Tarigan, Madyawati Latief

Makara Journal of Science

Diabetes is a common and rapidly spreading disease that affects 6.6% of the world’s population. Metformin hydrochloride (HCl) is an effective oral pharmacological treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients because of its capability to reduce glucose levels and the risk of hypoglycaemia. However, gastrointestinal sensitivities to this drug can cause diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting and stomach ache. An alternative is controlled release technology by coating metformin with carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and zinc-metal-organic framework (Zn-MOF) through the encapsulation method. Therefore, this study aimed to coat metformin formulations using CMC in a Zn-MOF to control release into the body and minimise …

Anti-Transforming Growth Factor-Β Treatment Shows Increased Bone Mass And Strength In A Novel Mouse Model For Osteogenesis Imperfecta Type I, Ellen Busschers, Yuqing Chen-Everson, Mary Adeyeye, I-Wen Song, Emily Busse, Alexis Castellon, Oscar Ruiz, Nicole Meyers, Yangjin Bae, Catherine Ambrose, Brendan Lee

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Anti-transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) is a promising approach for the treatment of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI). To date, preclinical and clinical studies for the use of anti-TGF-β therapy have focused on moderate to severe OI caused by qualitative defects in collagen. However, the majority of OI patients are represented by type I OI. Mutations resulting in the haploinsufficiency of type I collagen is the cause of OI type I in the majority of patients. To study the effect of anti-TGF-β therapy in type I OI, we generated a novel mouse model for OI type I. CMV-CRE mice were crossed to …

Determination Of The Anti-Inflammatory Activity Of The Methanolic Leaf Extract Of Strelitzia Reginae (Strelitziaceae), Lyannah Deign Hearty Delantar Hinol, Miflor De La Cerna, Decethree Gocela, Aymah Macalonto, Junnin Gay Garay

Pacific Journal of Health

Inflammation is a biological response that, if unregulated, can contribute to various health disorders. The search for new anti-inflammatory agents has led researchers to explore the medicinal potential of Strelitzia reginae, commonly known as the Bird of Paradise. This study aimed to determine the phytochemical composition and anti-inflammatory activity of the methanolic leaf extract of S. reginae. Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenols, saponins, and steroids, while tannins were absent. The Croton Oil-Induced Ear Edema Assay in Swiss albino mice was used to assess anti-inflammatory activity, with Indomethacin as a positive control. Acute oral …

Macular Thinning And Microvasculature Abnormalities In Children With Sickle Cell Disease: A Longitudinal Analysis, Sally S. Ong, Ann Nampomba, Sara Rahman, Loka Thangamathesvaran, Grace Reilly, Jianqiao Ma, Jay Vaidya, Sophie Lanzkron, Adrienne W. Scott

Cardeza Foundation for Hematologic Research

PURPOSE: To assess longitudinal changes in retinal thickness and vessel density (VD) in pediatric sickle cell disease (SCD).

DESIGN: A prospective cohort study.

PARTICIPANTS: Children (< 18 years old) with HbSS and HbS variant (HbSC and HbS thalassemia) genotypes were enrolled from a university-based retina subspecialty clinic from 2017 to 2019 and followed for ≥2 years.

METHODS: Participants received 3 × 3 and 6 × 6 mm OCT and OCT angiography scans at baseline and at each follow-up visit.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Retinal thickness, superficial capillary plexus (SCP), and deep capillary plexus (DCP) VD were compared over time.

RESULTS: Children with HbSS (n = 14) and HbS variant (n = 14) genotypes with ≥1 follow-up were included in the study (total 56 eyes). For HbSS, rates of retinal thinning per …

Cholesterol Metabolism Regulated By Camkk2-Creb Signaling Promotes Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer, Chenchu Lin, Thomas L Pulliam, Jenny J Han, Jiaqian Xu, Carlos Vera Recio, Sandi R Wilkenfeld, Yan Shi, Manoj Kushwaha, Sarah Bench, Eduardo Ruiz, Sanjanaa Senthilkumar, Jayasurya Dileep, Peter D A Shepherd, Nora M Navone, Albert R Klekers, Elizabeth M Whitley, Michael M Ittmann, Livia S Eberlin, Wenyi Wang, Daniel E Frigo

Faculty, Staff and Student Publications

Castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) remains an incurable disease in need of improved treatments. CAMKK2 is an emerging therapeutic target whose oncogenic effects in prostate cancer have, to date, been largely attributed to its activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Here, we demonstrate that CAMKK2 promotes prostate cancer growth through an alternative downstream pathway involving CAMKI and CREB. Unbiased transcriptomics identify CREB-mediated transcription as a CAMKK2-regulated process, findings that we validate using diverse molecular, genetic, and pharmacological approaches in vitro and in vivo. CAMKK2 promotes CREB phosphorylation/activation through CAMKIα independently of AMPK, CAMKIV, or other CAMKI isoforms. Functionally, the CREB family …

Safety And Efficacy Of Repurposed Smallpox Vaccines Against Mpox: A Critical Review Of Acam2000, Jynneos, And Lc16, Mohd Wahid, Raju K. Mandal, Mohammed Sikander, Mohammad Rashid Khan, Shafiul Haque, Nachiket Nagda, Faraz Ahmad, Alfonso J. Rodriguez-Morales

School of Medicine Publications

Since 2022, outbreaks of monkeypox (Mpox), which is caused by the monkeypox virus (MPXV), have been documented in more than 116 nations, making it a serious danger to world health. Despite being self-limiting in most cases, Mpox can lead to severe illness and even death, especially among high-risk populations like the LGBTQI + community. Hence, there is an urgent need for effective prevention and treatment strategies, with vaccination playing a crucial role. This paper explores the safety and efficacy of three key vaccines; ACAM2000, JYNNEOS, and LC16 that are repurposed from smallpox vaccines to combat Mpox. ACAM2000, a replication-competent vaccinia …

Quality Improvement Project Reducing Pediatric Anesthesia In Magnetic Resonance Imaging: The Role Of Preparedness And Education, Rachel Turner

Doctor of Nursing Practice Projects

Pediatric hematology-oncology patients undergo general anesthesia (GA) for various medical procedures, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans. Overexposure to GA increases the potential for long-term neurocognitive effects in pediatric patients. Despite the growing research literature on GA-related neurotoxicity and the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) warnings, advanced practice providers (APP) often lack the knowledge to advocate for and support reductions in pediatric GA use. The Doctor of Nurse Practice (DNP) quality improvement (QI) project aimed to reduce unnecessary GA in pediatric hematology-oncology patients undergoing MRI scans by addressing the primary clinic APPs' knowledge deficits through interprofessional education (IPE). Structured in …

Apolipoprotein M Attenuates Age-Related Macular Degeneration Phenotypes Via Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Signaling And Lysosomal Lipid Catabolism, Tae Jun Lee, Andrea Santeford, Kristen M Pitts, Carla Valenzuela Ripoll, Ryo Terao, Zhen Guo, Mualla Ozcan, Dagmar Kratky, Christina Christoffersen, Ali Javaheri, Rajendra S Apte

2020-Current year OA Pubs

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is a leading cause of blindness in people over 50. AMD and cardiovascular disease share risk factors including age, impaired lipid metabolism, and extracellular lipid deposition. Because of its importance in age-related diseases, we hypothesize that apolipoprotein M (ApoM), a lipocalin that binds sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), might restore lipid homeostasis and retinal function in AMD. In support, we find that human patients with AMD demonstrate significantly reduced ApoM compared to controls. In mice with impaired retinal cholesterol efflux, ApoM improves retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) function and lipotoxicity in an S1P- and S1P receptor 3-dependent manner. Ultrastructural evidence …

Modeling Reemergence Of Vaccine-Eliminated Infectious Diseases Under Declining Vaccination In The Us, Mathew V Kiang, Kate M Bubar, Yvonne Maldonado, Peter J Hotez, Nathan C Lo

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Importance: Widespread childhood vaccination has eliminated many infectious diseases in the US. However, vaccination rates are declining, and there are ongoing policy debates to reduce the childhood vaccine schedule, which may risk reemergence of previously eliminated infectious diseases.

Objective: To estimate the number of cases and complications in the US under scenarios of declining childhood vaccination for measles, rubella, poliomyelitis, and diphtheria.

Design, setting, and participants: A simulation model was used to assess the importation and dynamic spread of vaccine-preventable infectious diseases across 50 US states and the District of Columbia. The model was parameterized with data on area-specific estimates …

A Retrospective Descriptive Study Of Maternal Morbidity Based On Mississippi Poison Control Center Data, Laura Lee S. Beneke, Zariad Saran, Mallory Pullman, Jenna Davis, David Vearrier

Journal of Public Health in the Deep South

Maternal morbidity and mortality remain significant public health concerns in the United States, but particularly in Mississippi, which has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the country. This study analyzes data from the Mississippi Poison Control Center (MPCC) from January 2020 through December 2024 to assess trends in exposures among pregnant women. A total of 168 cases were identified. Exposures were categorized as unintentional, intentional, adverse reactions, or unknown, with unintentional exposures (47.6%) being the most common, often due to medication misuse. Intentional exposures, often linked to suspected self harm (31.5% of cases), represented 39.9% of the total. …

Human Alveolar Macrophage Response To Mycobacterium Tuberculosis: Immune Characteristics Underlying Large Inter-Individual Variability, Wolfgang Sadee, Ian H. Cheeseman, Audrey Papp, Maciej Pietrzak, Michal Seweryn, Xiaofei Zhou, Shili Lin, Hao Zhang, Blanca I. Restrepo, Yufeng Wang

School of Medicine Publications

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (M.tb) infection infects human alveolar macrophages (HAMs). In freshly isolated HAMs from 28 healthy adults, we observe large inter-individual differences in bacterial uptake and growth, with tenfold variation in M.tb load by 72 h. While M.tb infection triggers expression changes of numerous host mRNAs, we examined which genes are most variably expressed (VE genes) between donors, as potential biomarkers of individual tuberculosis (TB) risk. The HAM RNA transcriptome following infection revealed thousands of differentially expressed (DE) genes and differential secretion of 25/27 proteins. Yet only 324 DE genes represent VE genes detected exclusively among DE genes in …