Perceptions That Influence Acupuncture Use in Hospice Settings: Results of a State-Wide Survey Study.

Acupuncture is an effective and low-risk therapy for a wide spectrum of medical conditions. In the hospice setting, where comfort is the top priority, acupuncture could play a vital role in reducing symptom burden at the end of life. This state-wide survey study explored perceived barriers to acupuncture use in the hospice setting from acupuncturist and hospice staff perspectives.

Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs): In Vitro Mechanism of Estrogenic Activation and Differential Effects on ER Target Genes.

Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) influence the activity of estrogen receptors (ERs) and alter the function of the endocrine system. However, the diversity of EDC effects and mechanisms of action are poorly understood.

Objectives: We examined the agonistic activity of EDCs through ERα and ERβ.

Differential estrogenic actions of endocrine-disrupting chemicals bisphenol A, bisphenol AF, and zearalenone through estrogen receptor α and β in vitro.

Background: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are widely found in the environment. Estrogen-like activity is attributed to EDCs, such as bisphenol A (BPA), bisphenol AF (BPAF), and zearalenone (Zea), but mechanisms of action and diversity of effects are poorly understood.

Objectives: We used in vitro models to evaluate the mechanistic actions of BPA, BPAF, and Zea on estrogen receptor (ER) α and ERβ.