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Targeting CRHR1 Signaling in Experimental Infantile Epileptic Spasms Syndrome: Evidence for Route-Dependent Efficacy
No full textBACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Infantile epileptic spasms syndrome (IESS) is a severe epilepsy of infancy. Corticotropin (ACTH) and vigabatrin are the only FDA-approved therapies. The efficacy of ACTH together with the strong convulsant effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) suggests that excess CRH, secondary to impaired ACTH feedback, may contribute to spasms. We therefore hypothesized that CRH receptor 1 (CRHR1) antagonists would suppress spasms in a route- and drug-dependent manner. METHODS: Using our validated rat model of IESS, in which prenatal priming with betamethasone was followed by postnatal triggering of spasms with N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA), we tested two CRHR1 antagonists, CP376395 and SN003, delivered intracranially (via intracerebroventricular or intraparenchymal infusion) or systemically. RESULTS: Intracerebroventricular infusion of both antagonists suppressed spasms, with CP376395 providing more consistent effects. Intraparenchymal administration into the hypothalamic arcuate nucleus also reduced spasms, whereas misses into the mammillary bodies were ineffective, highlighting site specificity. Systemic administration yielded divergent results: SN003 robustly suppressed spasms, whereas CP376395 unexpectedly exacerbated them. No sex differences were observed. CONCLUSIONS: These findings demonstrate that CRHR1 blockade modifies experimental spasms in a route- and drug-specific manner and implicates discrete hypothalamic circuits, particularly those including the arcuate nucleus, in spasm generation. The divergent systemic responses between CP376395 and SN003 likely reflect differences in CRHR1 engagement (competitive and non-competitive antagonism, respectively) as well as differences in binding properties that may include differential network interactions beyond local CRH signaling or duration of receptor occupancy. In conclusion, SN003 may be a better option than CP376395 for further development as a CRHR1-targeted therapy pending additional pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic studies. Further work should explore dosing paradigms of CP376395 to determine if a therapeutic range for CP376395 exists
Physiological Effects of Photobiomodulation Therapy in the Treatment of Multiple Concussions
No full textRepeated concussion traumatic brain injury (TBI) results in long-term brain damage and cognitive dysfunctions, leading to neurodegenerative diseases. The brain clearance system plays a crucial role in TBI recovery and neurodegenerative disease amelioration by draining waste macromolecules from the brain. Pharmacological therapeutics have failed to demonstrate benefits in human TBI. Photobiomodulation (PBM) has gained interest in neuroscience and has been shown to improve brain drainage. Here, we evaluated the efficiency of PBM in the treatment of multiple concussions in mice and the augmentation of the brain clearance system. Three consecutive closed-head concussive TBIs were induced with a 1-h interval to the left hemisphere in C57BL/6 male mice. A near-infrared irradiation (1270 nm, 10 mW/cm) was used for PBM 4 h after the last TBI and the following 3 days twice a day. Laser speckle contrast imaging was used to assess cerebral blood flow (rCBF). In vivo 2-photon laser scanning microscopy assessed PBM effects on cerebral microcirculation, tissue oxygen supply (NADH), and meningeal lymphatics clearance. Brain compliance was evaluated by intracranial pressure waveform analysis. Neurological severity scores were obtained at 0-3 days after TBI. Two-way ANOVA for multiple comparisons was used to test intergroup differences, with the statistical significance set at p \u3c 0.05. Multiple concussions progressively impaired rCBF, cortical microcirculation, tissue oxygen supply, and brain drainage function (p \u3c 0.05). Compared to the sham-treated group, PBM improved rCBF, microcirculation, tissue oxygenation, and the brain drainage system (p \u3c 0.05). Neurological function was more preserved in the PBMT group than in sham-treated mice (p \u3c 0.05). Our study demonstrated that PBMT can be used as an adjunct therapy even in the acute period of TBI
ACR-ARS Practice Parameter for the Performance of Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapy
No full textOBJECTIVES: This practice parameter was revised collaboratively by the American College of Radiology (ACR) and American Radium Society (ARS). Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) precisely delivers higher dose(s) of radiation in 5 of fewer fractions, compared with conventional radiation. Given the complexity and technical nature of this treatment technique, practice parameters are needed to provide guidance to physicians and physicists. METHODS: This practice parameter was developed according to the process described under the heading The Process for Developing ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards on the ACR website ( https://www.acr.org/Clinical-Resources/Practice-Parameters-and-Technical-Standards ) by the Committee on Practice Parameters-Radiation Oncology of the ACR Commission on Radiation Oncology in collaboration with the ARS. RESULTS: Workflow, qualifications/responsibilities of personnel, quality control, and treatment delivery/verification are reviewed. Notable elements of SBRT include image guidance, immobilization, and motion management, with the treatment planning goal of minimizing the volume of normal tissue exposed to medium and high dose levels and maximizing dose safely to the target. Specialized training is encouraged, as some technologies are not used in standard treatments. CONCLUSIONS: This practice parameter provides direction on key components recommended for SBRT and may be used as a guide to physicians and physicists wanting to provide this treatment to their patients
PathOToons: Open-Access Medical Illustrations for Systemic Pathology
No full text2026
PathOToons is an open educational resource designed to enhance medical student learning and long-term retention of pathological diseases through original, concept-driven cartoons. The project is an expanding compilation of visual learning tools that translate complex pathology content into memorable illustrations and animations aligned with medical school curricula and board examination preparation.
Each cartoon emphasizes high-yield disease mechanisms, diagnostic features, and clinically relevant associations using visual storytelling, symbolism, and humor. This approach is grounded in principles of visual learning and dual coding, aiming to reduce cognitive load and promote durable memory formation. The resource includes both animated content and downloadable illustrated materials to support varied learning preferences and self-directed study.
As a freely accessible and continuously growing platform, PathOToons is designed to evolve alongside learner needs and curricular demands, with the goal of ultimately encompassing pathology across all organ systems. This project demonstrates how creative, learner-centered visual resources can complement traditional medical education while promoting equity, accessibility, and engagement within an open-access framework.https://touroscholar.touro.edu/opentextbooks/1019/thumbnail.jp
Endocardial Fibroelastosis: A Comprehensive Review
No full textEndocardial fibroelastosis emerged as a challenging clinical phenomenon in the 1940s. It is characterized by an atypical proliferation of fibrous and elastic tissue within the heart and is primarily observed in childhood, occasionally displaying familial inheritance. While the precise cause remains elusive, various factors, including genetic, infectious, metabolic, autoimmune, oncologic, and medication-related influences, appear to play a role in its pathogenesis. The coexistence of endocardial fibroelastosis with multiple cardiac structural abnormalities manifests in symptoms of congestive heart failure and rhythm abnormalities. Despite its challenging diagnosis, various findings from ECG and imaging have proven beneficial in further evaluation of this condition. Finally, the treatment approach to endocardial fibroelastosis became complex due to addressing its concurrent cardiac abnormalities. Strategies for managing and preventing this condition are still under investigation. In this review, we intend to highlight the existing knowledge and illuminate future considerations regarding the etiology, diagnosis, and management of this disease
InTouch Week of January 12, 2026
No full textDepartment of Cell and Molecular Physiology Unites Three Disciplines Paul Arnaboldi, Ph.D., Receives More Than $500,000 NIH Grant to Support Respiratory Vaccine Development Action speaks louder than words in dealing with antisemitism and violence Celebrate the Publication of the 8th Edition Principles and Practice of Radiation Oncology Gabriel Project Mumbai, Welcomes Second Cohort of TCDM Students and Faculty Love at NYMC Student Spotlight: A Full-Circle Journeyhttps://touroscholar.touro.edu/in_touch/1386/thumbnail.jp
InTouch Week of February 2, 2026
No full textCampus Illumination and Panel Discussion Honors Holocaust Remembrance Day Where Experience Becomes Evidence: Advancing Transplant Education at NYMC D.P.T. Student Experience Love at NYMChttps://touroscholar.touro.edu/in_touch/1389/thumbnail.jp