Blast-induced temporal alterations in blood-brain barrier properties in a rodent model.

The consequences of blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI) on the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and components of the neurovascular unit are an area of active research. In this study we assessed the time course of BBB integrity in anesthetized rats exposed to a single blast overpressure of 130 kPa (18.9 PSI).

Repeated Low-Level Blast Acutely Alters Brain Cytokines, Neurovascular Proteins, Mechanotransduction, and Neurodegenerative Markers in a Rat Model.

Exposure to the repeated low-level blast overpressure (BOP) periodically experienced by military personnel in operational and training environments can lead to deficits in behavior and cognition. While these low-intensity blasts do not cause overt changes acutely, repeated exposures may lead to cumulative effects in the brain that include acute inflammation, vascular disruption, and other molecular changes, which may eventually contribute to neurodegenerative processes. To identify these acute changes in the brain following repeated BOP, an advanced blast simulator was used to expose rats to 8.

Behavioural laterality in foraging bottlenose dolphins ().

Lateralized behaviour is found in humans and a wide variety of other species. At a population level, lateralization of behaviour suggests hemispheric specialization may underlie this behaviour. As in other cetaceans, dolphins exhibit a strong right-side bias in foraging behaviour.

Repeated Low-Level Blast Overpressure Leads to Endovascular Disruption and Alterations in TDP-43 and Piezo2 in a Rat Model of Blast TBI.

Recent evidence linking repeated low-level blast overpressure exposure in operational and training environments with neurocognitive decline, neuroinflammation, and neurodegenerative processes has prompted concern over the cumulative deleterious effects of repeated blast exposure on the brains of service members. Repetitive exposure to low-level primary blast may cause symptoms (subclinical) similar to those seen in mild traumatic brain injury (TBI), with progressive vascular and cellular changes, which could contribute to neurodegeneration. At the cellular level, the mechanical force associated with blast exposure can cause cellular perturbations in the brain, leading to secondary injury.

Exposure to Blast Overpressure Impairs Cerebral Microvascular Responses and Alters Vascular and Astrocytic Structure.

Exposure to blast overpressure may result in cerebrovascular impairment, including cerebral vasospasm. The mechanisms contributing to this vascular response are unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between blast and functional alterations of the cerebral microcirculation and to investigate potential underlying changes in vascular microstructure.

Early Exposure to Underserved Patients and Its Impact on Initial Employment Decisions Regarding Physician Assistants.

Purpose: This study explored the impact of early, repetitive, and required participation in a homeless shelter-based, student-run free clinic (SRC) on career choice in primary care, underserved medicine, and future volunteerism in physician assistants (PAs). The investigators hypothesized that students required to participate in the SRC would be more likely to select a career in primary care, be providers to underserved populations, and to volunteer.

Methods: A 30-question online survey, which included open- and closed-ended questions, was administered to alumni of the DeSales University PA program from January 2015 to April 2015.

Implementation of Technology-based Patient Engagement Strategies within Practice-based Research Networks.

Background: Technology-based patient engagement strategies (such as patient portals) are increasingly available, yet little is known about current use and barriers within practice-based research networks (PBRNs). PBRN directors have unique opportunities to inform the implementation of patient-facing technology and to translate these findings into practice.

Methods: PBRN directors were queried regarding technology-based patient engagement strategies as part of the 2015 CAFM Educational Research Alliance (CERA) survey of PBRN directors.

Clinician-Reported Barriers to Group Visit Implementation.

Background: Group visits have been shown to improve disease-oriented outcomes and satisfaction, yet many clinicians have not incorporated them into practice. We aimed to identify clinician-reported barriers that preclude clinicians from implementing group visits.

Methods: Primary care physicians from one practice-based research network were surveyed regarding their experience with and barriers to group visits.