Medicine and Health Sciences Commons^™

The Medial Olivocochlear Efferent Pathway Potentiates Cochlear Amplification In Response To Hearing Loss, Patricia M Quiñones, Michelle Pei, Hemant Srivastava, Ariadna Cobo-Cuan, Marcela A Morán, Bong Jik Kim, Clayton B Walker, Michael J Serafino, Frank Macias-Escriva, Juemei Wang, James B Dewey, Brian E Applegate, Matthew J Mcginley, John S Oghalai

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

The mammalian cochlea receives efferent feedback from the brain. Many functions for this feedback have been hypothesized, including on short timescales, such as mediating attentional states, and long timescales, such as buffering acoustic trauma. Testing these hypotheses has been impeded by an inability to make direct measurements of efferent effects in awake animals. Here, we assessed the role of the medial olivocochlear (MOC) efferent nerve fibers on cochlear amplification by measuring organ of Corti vibratory responses to sound in both sexes of awake and anesthetized mice. We studied long-term effects by genetically ablating the efferents and/or afferents. Cochlear amplification increased …

An Unsupervised Map Of Excitatory Neuron Dendritic Morphology In The Mouse Visual Cortex, Marissa A Weis, Stelios Papadopoulos, Laura Hansel, Timo Lüddecke, Brendan Celii, Paul G Fahey, Eric Y Wang, J Alexander Bae, Agnes L Bodor, Derrick Brittain, Joann Buchanan, Daniel J Bumbarger, Manuel A Castro, Forrest Collman, Nuno Maçarico Da Costa, Sven Dorkenwald, Leila Elabbady, Akhilesh Halageri, Zhen Jia, Chris Jordan, Dan Kapner, Nico Kemnitz, Sam Kinn, Kisuk Lee, Kai Li, Ran Lu, Thomas Macrina, Gayathri Mahalingam, Eric Mitchell, Shanka Subhra Mondal, Shang Mu, Barak Nehoran, Sergiy Popovych, R Clay Reid, Casey M Schneider-Mizell, H Sebastian Seung, William Silversmith, Marc Takeno, Russel Torres, Nicholas L Turner, William Wong, Jingpeng Wu, Wenjing Yin, Szi-Chieh Yu, Jacob Reimer, Philipp Berens, Andreas S Tolias, Alexander S Ecker

Faculty, Staff and Students Publications

Neurons in the neocortex exhibit astonishing morphological diversity, which is critical for properly wiring neural circuits and giving neurons their functional properties. However, the organizational principles underlying this morphological diversity remain an open question. Here, we took a data-driven approach using graph-based machine learning methods to obtain a low-dimensional morphological "bar code" describing more than 30,000 excitatory neurons in mouse visual areas V1, AL, and RL that were reconstructed from the millimeter scale MICrONS serial-section electron microscopy volume. Contrary to previous classifications into discrete morphological types (m-types), our data-driven approach suggests that the morphological landscape of cortical excitatory neurons is …

Bioseq: A Molecular Intelligence Platform Based On Organism-On-Chip Technology For Bridging Data Gaps Between C. Elegans And Humans, Hunter Edwards, Adnan Qureshi, Mizanur Rahman, Tyler Chiriboga, Amar Chittiboyina, Ikhlas Khan, Siva Vanapalli

Oxford ICSB

The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, emphasizes the urgent need for New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to replace conventional animal testing in safety and efficacy assessments. NemaLife’s organism-on-chip platform, utilizing C. elegans, microfluidics and visual AI, provides a high throughput platform for in vivo screening. To enhance human relevance and reduce the inter-species gap between C. elegans and human, we developed BioSeq, a novel discovery workflow, based on high-throughput transcriptomics. Leveraging the 60-80% homology between C. elegans and human genomes, BioSeq translates worm gene expression data to human orthologs. This enables: (i) identification of differentially expressed human-relevant genes triggered by bioactive ingredients …

Current Regulatory And Enforcement Landscape Under Mocra, Diane Mcenroe

Oxford ICSB

The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) became effective December 29th, 2023 and is the most significant expansion of FDA’s authority to regulate cosmetics since the FD&C Act was enacted in 1938. MoCRA expands the FDA's authority over cosmetics and creates new compliance obligations for manufacturers. Diane McEnroe, an FDA regulatory lawyer at Sidley Austin, LLP, will provide an overview of the law and its implication for cosmetic manufacturers and marketers. The presentation will also provide an update on the current regulatory and enforcement landscape to date, including considerations about follow on litigation when there has been publicity …

Cosmetic Adverse Events And The Product Safety Landscape, Rick Kingston

Oxford ICSB

The Modernization of Cosmetics Regulation Act of 2022 (MoCRA) became effective December 29th, 2023 and is the most significant expansion of FDA’s authority to regulate cosmetics since the FD&C Act was enacted in 1938. MoCRA expands the FDA's rulemaking and enforcement authority over cosmetics and creates new compliance obligations for manufacturers. There are six key areas of the legislation including Facility Registration, Product & Ingredient Listing, Safety Substantiation, Cosmetics Labeling, and Adverse Event Reporting and Record Keeping. Each of these areas has significant implications for manufacturers and cosmetic ingredients. Given the ubiquitous presence of botanical and other naturally occurring substances …

Advancing Botanical Safety Through Collaborative Innovation: Updates From The Botanical Safety Consortium, Amy Roe

Oxford ICSB

The Botanical Safety Consortium (BSC) is a public-private partnership established in 2019 by the FDA, NIEHS, and HESI to address the unique challenges of botanical safety assessment. Botanicals, derived from plants, algae, and fungi, present inherent complexities due to their variable chemical compositions and the presence of hundreds of constituents. Traditional toxicity tests, designed for single chemical entities, fail to adequately assess these complex mixtures, necessitating the development of novel strategies. The BSC has made significant strides in advancing safety evaluations by employing New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) to address critical endpoints, including hepatotoxicity, genotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, neurotoxicity, dermal toxicity, and developmental …

Association Of Plant-Based Dietary Patterns With Female Reproductive Cancer Incidence And Mortality: A Systematic Review, Esther L. Farley, Scott Moore, Gary A. Giovino, Darryl Somayaji

Campus Research Month

Healthy plant-based eating, a health-related behavior that nurses may promote, has been associated with a decrease in multiple types of cancer. However, the association of a healthy plant-based dietary pattern with decreased female reproductive cancers has not yet been established.

This review of the literature followed PRISMA guidelines to search for the relationship between a healthy plant-based dietary pattern and incidence of and mortality from a breast or gynecological cancer diagnosis. Databases searched for this review included PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and Web of Science.

We identified 27 publications that met the qualifications for inclusion. Twelve studies covered mortality from breast, …

Herbal Medicine For The Management Of Asthma In Taiwan: Insights From Big Data, Laboratory Studies, And Clinical Research, Hung-Rong Yen, Chuan-Teng Liu, Ying-Chyi Song

Oxford ICSB

Introduction: Asthma affects individuals across all age groups and poses a significant public health challenge in Taiwan, with high morbidity rates and substantial healthcare burdens. Traditional medicine theory emphasizes restoring the yin-yang balance, achieved through methods such as herbal medicine. Real-world data from Taiwan highlight the growing reliance on complementary therapies due to recurrent exacerbations and the potential side effects of conventional asthma medications. Materials and Methods: First, we analyzed the National Health Insurance Research Database, encompassing a population of 23 million in Taiwan, to identify the most commonly prescribed Chinese herbal medicines. Subsequently, we conducted in vitro experiments and …

Intoxicating Cannabinoids And Impurities In Hemp-Derived Products In Us Markets, Mahmoud Elsohly

Oxford ICSB

This talk will examine the nature and source of a number of intoxicating cannabinoids and impurities, widely available in the US and marketed as “hemp-derived” and thus promoted as legal and safe products. The presentation will elaborate on the 2018 Farm Bill, the definition of Hemp and the consequences of the interpretation of the definition on the composition of products on the market. Of particular emphasis will be the prevalence of Delta-8 THC in these products and the incorporation of their intoxicating cannabinoids.

Innovation Meets Rigor: A Case Study Of Decentralized Clinical Trials In Consumer Health Research, Belinda Tan

Oxford ICSB

Direct-to-consumer decentralized clinical trials (DCTs) conducted with mobile digital technologies and at-home or local clinical testing are accelerating rigorous clinical studies by virtualizing study activities and collecting data from mobile devices and web-based systems. Through technology automations, decentralized study designs allow for high quality and compliance with objective and subjective data collection. The result is increased study efficiency, high rigor, and more diverse participation, while generating high quality data to meet regulatory standards. Using a proprietary clinical trial software application Chloe, we conducted a double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with optional open label extension investigating the impact of 2 doses of …

Cannabidiol And Other Minor Cannabinoids: Pharmacological Targets And Interactions With Thc., Larry Walker

Oxford ICSB

This talk will examine the pharmacology of minor phytocannabinoids, including cannabidiol (CBD) and its interactions with delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). Of particular interest is the impact – if any – of varying ratios of THC and CBD on THC responses, and potential mechanisms for the interplay. We will also consider the pharmacology and potential therapeutic impacts of other minor cannabinoids, including cannabigerol, tetrahydrocannabivarin, and cannabichromene.

Effects Of Caffeinated Green Tea Extract And Exercise In Obese Nzo/Hlltj Mice, Igor Koturbash

Oxford ICSB

Green tea extracts (GTEs) are common ingredients among dietary supplements marketed for weight loss and weight management. However, GTEs and their various catechin polyphenols have also been linked to a number of hepatotoxicity cases. The purpose of this study was to investigate, using the NZO/HlLtJ obese mouse model, the hepato- and cardiotoxic potential of a well-characterized GTE in combination with caffeine (CAF) moderate exercise (EX, 1 hour daily for the duration of 8 weeks) as well as its ability to promote weight loss. No evidence of hepato- or cardiotoxicity was noted when GTE was administered either alone or in combination …

Spatial Training For Children With Suspected Auditory Processing Disorder: A Random Control Trial, Taylor Delao

Student Research Symposium

Auditory Processing Disorder (APD), defined here as a deficit in the way sounds are analyzed by the brain, has remained a controversial topic within audiology for decades.

Awards And Recognition

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

School Of Dentistry Researcher Finds Passion In The Lab And On Foot, Garrison Higgins, Jacob Dougall

Virginia Dental Journal

The article highlights the passion and experiences of Janina Lewis, a researcher at VCU School of Dentistry, who balances her professional achievements with a love for running and fitness.

She Put A Smile In Your Heart, Richard F. Roadcap Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article is honoring Sister Bernadette Kenny, highlighting her contributions to healthcare and community service, particularly in dental care and maternal health.

This Is The Face Of A Survivor, Tara Quinn

Virginia Dental Journal

The article highlights the impact of the Virginia Dental Association Foundation's Donated Dental Services program, showcasing the transformative dental care provided to low-income individuals, particularly through the story of a cancer survivor named Pamela.

2025 Virginia Dental Showcase

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Smart Communication Strategies Every Practice Needs To Know, Ashli Klingaman

Virginia Dental Journal

The ARTICLE provides strategies for dental practices to enhance patient communication through consistent engagement, automation, and effective content planning to improve patient retention and appointment scheduling.

Wellness Resources For Members And Students

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Ace Your Audit, Dilaine Gloege, Michael Weitzner Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article provides guidance on dental audits, emphasizing the importance of accurate documentation, coding, and compliance to prevent claim denials and ensure proper management of dental plans.

Vda Member Perks Endorses Ddsmatch Practice Transitions, Karen Wood

Virginia Dental Journal

The ARTICLE announces the endorsement of DDSmatch by VDA MEMBER PERKS for practice transitions and highlights the benefits of this partnership for VDA members.

Tips For Discussing Fluoridation With Patients

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Navigating Misinformation And Building Trust Through Communication, Michaela Mishoe

Virginia Dental Journal

The article provides guidance for dental professionals on effectively communicating and addressing misinformation about fluoride and oral health, while building trust with patients and the media.

Dental Detective Series, Zaneta Hamlin Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

No abstract provided.

Through The Looking Glass, Sarah Glass

Virginia Dental Journal

This feature discusses various oral pathology cases and their diagnoses, including Pyogenic Granuloma, Squamous Cell Carcinoma, and Dens Invaginatus, presented by dental students.

The Game Is Changing … Will You Stay In The Game?, Bruce Hutchison Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article is a call to action for dentists in Virginia to contribute to the Virginia Dental Association Political Action Committee (VDA PAC) to maintain their influence in political matters affecting their profession.

2025 General Assembly Session Review, Tripp Perrin, Missy Wesolowski, Jennifer Walle Boyd

Virginia Dental Journal

The 2025 Virginia General Assembly introduced over 3,000 bills and passed nearly 1,900, including several impacting dentistry, healthcare access, and insurance practices. Key dental-related legislation addressed licensure for foreign graduates, expanded care for pregnant women, and provider fee transparency, with most awaiting gubernatorial action. Defensive efforts successfully blocked a malpractice cap increase for oral surgeons. Additional bills focused on telemedicine, prior authorization reforms, and medical debt protections.

Introducing The Fulcrum Podcast, Ryan Dunn, Paul Logan, Shannon Jacobs

Virginia Dental Journal

The feature introduces The Fulcrum Podcast, which discusses important topics affecting dental providers and patients, featuring insights from various contributors on workforce challenges, legislative issues, and best practices in dentistry and more.

Retired Dentists – An Untapped Pool Of Volunteers, Mayer G. Levy Dds

Virginia Dental Journal

The article advocates for retired dentists to volunteer by simplifying the process of obtaining a volunteer license, highlighting the untapped potential of this group to serve underserved populations.