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Sex differences and antidepressant use are not systematically accounted for in studies measuring physiological dysregulations associated with chronic stress and allostatic load (AL) in neuropsychiatry. Critically, assessing commonly prescribed antidepressant medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) could help monitor potential iatrogenic effects on AL and health that are associated with prolonged antidepressant use. The objective of this exploratory analysis was to investigate how male and female psychiatric outpatients using either SSRIs or SNRIs differ in their AL indices. To achieve this, we used data from a larger project collecting administrative, medical, and biological data among psychiatric outpatients of the Anjou Clinic for Mood and Anxiety Disorders, based in Montreal, Canada (n = 116). Sociodemographic variables included age and birth-assigned sex. We calculated AL using 10 biomarkers reflecting cardiovascular (systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse) and metabolic (glucose, creatinine, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL), total cholesterol/HDL ratio, triglycerides, body mass index) functioning. Psychiatric medications were classified using the Anatomical and Therapeutic Classification system. We found that relative to female outpatients, male outpatients showed significantly higher AL levels. In addition, relative to SSRI users, SNRI users had significantly higher AL levels. However, there were no interactions effects between birth-assigned sex and antidepressant types on AL. We discuss the potential clinical implications of our findings, as well as directions for future studies that aim to investigate AL among male and female patients using antidepressants. • Allostatic load (AL) is a physiological measure of the wear and tear of chronic stress. • Sex differences and antidepressant use are inconsistently reported in studies of AL/psychiatry. • Different antidepressants may have distinct effects on AL biomarkers of psychiatric patients. • Male outpatients had higher allostatic load compared to female outpatients. • SNRI users had higher allostatic load indices relative to SSRI users. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Candida species is the most common cause of invasive fungal infection in the critically ill population admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU). Numerous risk factors for developing invasive candidiasis (IC) have been identified, and some, like the breach of protective barriers, abound within the ICU. Given that IC carries a significant mortality, morbidity, and healthcare cost burden, early diagnosis and treatment have become an essential topic of discussion. Several expert panels and task forces have been established to provide clear guidance on the management of IC. Unfortunately, IC remains a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge attributable to the changing fungal ecology of Candida species and the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains. This narrative review will focus on the following: (1) the incidence, outcomes, and changing epidemiology of IC globally; (2) the risk factors for developing IC; (3) IC risk stratification tools and their appropriate use; (4) diagnosis of IC; and (5) therapeutic agents and regimens. Plain Language Summary Title: A review of severe Candida infection in patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit Plain Language Summary: Candida infections are the most common type of serious fungal infections that affect patients in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). There are many known risk factors for developing these infections, especially in ICU patients who often experience situations like damage to protective barriers in the body. Since these infections can lead to death, serious illness, and higher healthcare costs, it’s important to diagnose and treat them as early as possible. However, diagnosing and treating invasive Candida infections is still very difficult. This is because the types of Candida fungi are changing, and some strains are becoming resistant to multiple antifungal medications. The goal of this review is to help improve understanding and management of these serious infections in ICU settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this manuscript a review of the prevalence of trauma among students in the United States and its impact on child development and the educational environment is conducted. Case vignettes are used to highlight the impact of trauma present in schools and a framework for implementing trauma-informed care (TIC) in special education is explored. The Missouri Model for Trauma Informed Schools, an existing trauma-informed schools model, is used as a guide throughout the manuscript to highlight principles of TIC and explore the collaborative partnerships needed for TIC, particularly those between special education teachers and school counselors. Finally, indicators for TIC and resources for school personnel are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This essay is an extended review of, and engagement with, James Crossley and Robert J. Myles's Jesus: A Life in Class Conflict (2023). The review particularly commends them for a work which addresses the difficult question of whether one is able to recover an 'historical' figure from tradition, and notes that effort, in many ways, becomes a compelling form of reception criticism. It notes, as well, some key places for future consideration (e.g., the implications of their work for masculinity studies). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This mixed methods study examined the impacts of an intensive play therapy workshop that included a micro-practicum for 18 practicing school counselors. This study also explored school counselors' experiences regarding their training for addressing mental health issues in schools and their experiences following the intensive play therapy workshop. Participants ranged in age from 28 years to 66 years. Fifteen (n = 15) participants identified as female while three (n = 3) identified male. Varying levels of clinical play therapy experience were represented in this study with 44.4% (n = 8) participants reporting having no prior clinical experience in play therapy, 33.3% (n = 6) reporting having under 1 year of clinical experience in play therapy, 5.6% (n = 1) reporting having 2 years of clinical play therapy experience, 5.6% (n = 1) reporting having 3 years of clinical play therapy experience, and 11.1% (n = 2) reporting having more than 3 years of clinical experience in play therapy. Results indicated that an intensive play therapy workshop with micro-practicum positively affects school counselors' scores on the Play Therapy Attitude Knowledge and Skills Survey and School Counselor Self-efficacy scales. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Eating disorders (EDs) have long been considered conditions exclusively affecting women, and studies in the ED field regularly exclude men. Research efforts are needed to better understand the role of gender and sex in EDs. This review describes the role of gender and sex in the development of EDs from a biopsychosocial perspective. Methods: The primary hypothesis of this narrative review is that gender and sex interact to influence ED risk. The literature review was conducted using the PubMed database. Results: This review first presents the general characteristics and prevalence of EDs according to gender and sex. Next, neurodevelopmental processes, neurobiology, gender roles, body image, and the minority stress model are addressed. Lastly, research perspectives to better include gender and sex in the field of EDs are discussed (e.g., representation of gender and sex diversities, development of appropriate assessment tools, and increasing awareness). Conclusion: Although substantial knowledge gaps remain, there is a growing recognition of the importance of integrating gender and sex in ED research that holds promise for further development in the field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Informed by minority stress and intersectionality frameworks, we examined 1) associations of sexual identity and race/ethnicity with probable diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD-PD) among sexual minority women (SMW; e.g. lesbian, bisexual) and 2) potential additive and interactive associations of minority stressors (discrimination, stigma consciousness and internalised homonegativity) and potentially traumatic childhood and adulthood events (PTEs) with PTSD-PD. The data come from a large and diverse community sample in the United States of SMW (N=662; age range: 18–82; M=40.0, SD=14.0). The sample included 35.8% Black, 23.4% Latinx and 37.2% White participants. More than one-third of SMW (37.2%) had PTSD-PD with significantly higher prevalence among bisexual, particularly White bisexual women, than lesbian women. Discrimination, stigma consciousness and internalised homonegativity were each associated with higher odds of PTSD-PD, but only internalised homonegativity was additively associated with PTSD-PD above and beyond effects of PTEs. We found no evidence for interactive effects between PTEs and minority stressors. PTSD was strongly associated with childhood PTEs and with minority stressors above and beyond associations with adulthood PTEs and stressors. Our findings suggest a strong need to address effects of marginalization in treatment for PTSD, as minority stressors likely maintain and exacerbate effects of past traumas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sexual minority women (SMW) are at high risk of experiencing stigma, mental health problems, and being victims of intimate partner violence (IPV). This vulnerability can be explained by the sexual and gender minority stress model, stating that sexual and gender minority people suffer from specific stress factors added to general stressors, leading to more mental health and relationships problems. OBJECTIVE: The main goal of this study was to assess the impact of minority stress factors and former IPV victimization on the current mental health of Canadian SMW, as a function of their sexual and gender identity. METHOD: In total, 209 individuals identifying as women (M age = 33.9), living in Canada and who lived in a past violent relationship with a woman responded to an online survey. Well-validated questionnaires assessed sexual orientation and gender identity, former IPV behaviors, minority stress factors, depression, and anxiety. RESULTS: Hierarchical regressions showed that past psychological aggression was positively associated with anxiety symptoms and past sexual coercion with depressive symptoms. Not being monosexual was also associated more severe symptoms of depression and age was negatively associated with the severity of anxiety symptoms. After controlling for age, race/ethnicity, sexual and gender identity and former IPV victimization, having negative feelings about being a SMW was strongly associated with both depression and anxiety symptoms. CONCLUSION: These results provide new information on the interconnected associations between former IPV, minority stress and SMW's mental health. Findings highlight the need to adapt clinical interventions to help buffer against victimization faced by IPV victims who identify as sexual and gender minorities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sessile marine invertebrates usually follow a distinct pattern of living in dense aggregations or as solitary individuals. However, at least some serpulins, including Spirobranchus cariniferus, seem to be able to settle aggregative or solitary. To understand how living solitary or in aggregation is beneficial, it is essential to understand the advantages and disadvantages of both settlement strategies for sessile invertebrates. Benefits of living in aggregations include securing suitable habitat, improving the probability of survival by mitigating physical stress and increasing reproductive success. However, living in patches also comes with some disadvantages for the individual, such as higher intra- and interspecific competition for food, space and oxygen. Increased physiological stress can lead to increased mortality and decreased reproductive success, whereas solitary individuals could produce more gametes because of a lack of competition for food and space. On the other hand, predators would have easier access to them, and the possibility of fertilisation success may be lower because of a lack of synchronisation and a greater distance between individuals of different sexes. These issues have not been sufficiently addressed, particularly for serpulids. Individuals of the New Zealand endemic polychaete Spirobranchus cariniferus can be found solitary and aggregative in the same habitat. Therefore, this study is the first on serpulids comparing the growth and mortality of individuals living alone or in aggregations. Hence, bi-monthly observation of mortality and growth measurements were conducted on tagged individuals in the field, and weekly observations were conducted in a laboratory-based study on individuals of both settlement configurations. A final comparison of body metrics to tube dimensions was made by removing an individual from their tube. My findings revealed that while solitary and aggregative individuals elongate their tubes at a similar rate, further correlations of the body to tube sizes lead to the conclusion that solitary worms focus more of their energy on tube growth rather than body size increment than aggregative conspecifics. Mortality is highly variable and seems not to differ between both configurations. However, individuals living in a patch can better recover from damage to their tubes. Here presented observations hopefully initiated further studies into the effects of aggregation size and density on individual growth. Results of this and subsequent studies can inform the management efforts for reefs of serpulins, bivalves and other invertebrates. • Uniform Growth Rate: Solitary and aggregative individuals of Spirobranchus cariniferus exhibit the same tube growth rate. • Energy Allocation : Solitary worms prioritize tube over somatic growth; they may be older than aggregative worms. • Tube Damage: Solitary worms experience greater adverse effects from tube damage than their aggregative counterparts. • Mortality and Settlement : Mortality rates of S. cariniferus show no correlation with their settlement strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unless parents have a family member at home who can provide care, most will need childcare to work and achieve career mobility. Existing policies to help families with child-care costs in the United States include means-tested subsidies and nonrefundable tax credits. Many low-income families are eligible for the means-tested benefits, yet receipt rates are low. These families are generally excluded from the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC) because it is nonrefundable. We analyze two approaches to reduce child-care expenses for low-income working families: (1) making the CDCTC fully refundable and increasing its generosity and (2) providing subsidies to ensure families spend no more than the Department of Health and Human Services affordability guidelines suggest. We evaluate how much such policies would alleviate child poverty through reducing child-care costs and through increasing earnings by enabling parents to work more. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on gun control proponents considering evidence for the side. Topics include contests at arms, robust hardihood, and "martial virtues" being lost where civilization stagnating and eventually decline; preserving an aggressive, normatively heterosexual, and domineering construction of masculinity; and empowerment variables combining to perpetuate a shared semiotics and gun culture.

The article presents the discussion on gun control proponents considering evidence for the side. Topics include military training and contests at arms, robust hardihood and "martial virtues" being lost where civilization stagnating and eventually decline; preserving an aggressive, nor-matively heterosexual, and domineering construction of masculinity; and exploring the subterranean and occluded motives for wanting own firearms.

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ+) individuals encounter persistent structural inequalities and discrimination that can lead to detrimental psychological and physiological health outcomes. Amid evolving legal landscapes, little attention has been directed toward understanding the physiological health effects of societal shifts on these communities. This study aims to explore the impact of a national marriage equality vote and associated debates on psychological and biological stress among LGBTIQ+ individuals and cisgender, heterosexual, endosex individuals (termed cis-heterosexual) in Switzerland. We gathered longitudinal survey and biological data collected in hair samples among LGBTIQ+ and cis-heterosexual individuals before, during, and after the 2021 national vote (survey data: NT1T2 = 954; NT2T3 = 880; biological data: NT1T2 = 393; NT2T3 = 354). Preregistered analyses reveal a notable increase in biological stress levels (i.e., cortisol and cortisone levels), but not perceived stress, among both LGBTIQ+ as well as cis-heterosexual individuals who were close to them during the campaign. Results further point out the negative impacts of the campaign against marriage equality (i.e., no-campaign) on LGBTIQ+ individuals' biological stress levels as well as on those of their allies. These effects were, however, moderated by exposure to the campaign for marriage equality (i.e., yes-campaign), indicating the powerful buffering effects of the yes-campaign on the impact of discrimination on individuals' health. However, these positive effects appear to come at a cost, potentially impacting the well-being of individuals engaged in advocating for the yes-campaign. This research underscores the lasting impact of political campaigns on individuals' health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Following a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), the most prevalent and profoundly debilitating occurrence is the emergence of an acute and persistent post-traumatic headache (PTH), for which there are presently no approved treatments. A crucial gap in knowledge exists regarding the consequences of an mTBI, which could serve as a foundation for the development of therapeutic approaches. The activation of trigeminal sensory nerve terminals that innervate the calvarial periosteum (CP)—a densely innervated tissue layer covering the calvarial skull—has been implicated in both migraines and PTHs. We have previously shown that trigeminal oxytocin receptors (OTRs) may provide a therapeutic target for PTHs. This study examined the expression of oxytocin receptors on trigeminal nerves innervating the periosteum and whether these receptors might serve as a therapeutic target for PTHs using a direct application of oxytocin to the periosteum in a rodent model of PTH. Methods: We used retrograde tracing and immunohistochemistry to determine if trigeminal ganglion (TG) neurons innervating the periosteum expressed OTRs and/or CGRPs. To model the impact of local inflammation that occurs following an mTBI, we applied chemical inflammatory mediators directly to the CP and assessed for changes in immediate-early gene expression as an indication of neuronal activation. We also determined whether mTBI would lead to expression changes to OTR levels. To determine whether these OTRs could be a viable therapeutic target, we assessed the impact of oxytocin injections into the CP in a mouse model of PTH-induced periorbital allodynia. Results: The results of these experiments demonstrate the following: (1) the cell bodies of CP afferents reside in the TG and express both OTRs and CGRPs; (2) inflammatory chemical stimulation of the periosteum leads to rapid activation of TG neurons (phospho-ERK (p-ERK) expression), (3) mTBI-induced inflammation increased OTR expression compared to the sham group; and (4) administration of oxytocin into the periosteum on day 2 and day 40 blocked cutaneous allodynia for up to one hour post-administration for both acute and persistence phases in the PTH model—an effect that was preventable by the administration of an OTR antagonist. Conclusion: Taken together, our observations suggest that periosteal trigeminal afferents contribute to post-TBI craniofacial pain, and that periosteum tissue can be used as a potential local target for therapeutics such as oxytocin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Exposure to workplace violence puts child protection workers at risk for adverse occupational outcomes. While previous studies have identified protective and risk factors, individual differences in gender roles have yet to be explored. Moving beyond sex, the present study aims to examine the ways in which gender roles influence exposure to workplace violence, professional quality of life, and wellbeing at work among child protection workers. A randomized sample stratified by sex of 301 Canadian child protection workers (male: 15.6%, female: 84.4%) completed validated questionnaires of gender roles, professional quality of life, and wellbeing at work. We assessed mean differences using analyses of covariances controlling for clinical experience and type of work. We then assessed the moderating effect of gender roles on other variables through hierarchical multiple linear regressions. Androgyny (high masculinity and high femininity) was associated with higher scores on positive indicators of professional quality of life and wellbeing at work. However, gender roles showed no significant moderating effect on the relationship between exposure to violence, professional quality of life, and wellbeing at work. Results suggest that androgyny could be related to potential psychosocial benefits for child protection workers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three sulfonato-calix[6]arene derivatives, namely para-sulfonato-calix[6]arene, calix[6]arene-O-propyl-3-sulphonate and para-sulfonato-calix[6]arene-O-propyl-3-sulphonate have been used as capping agents for silver nanoparticles. The sulfonato-calix[6]arene derivatives were demonstrated to stabilise the nanoparticles, and to act as ligands for molecular recognition at the surface of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were characterised by UV-visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential and scanning electron microscopy. The localised surface plasmon resonance of the nanoparticles was shown to be highly sensitive to the local environment, and was used to evaluate molecular interactions with four active pharmaceutical ingredients: streptomycin, gentamycin, D-penicillamine and chloramphenicol. Changes in spectral intensity and wavelength have shown that the interactions are dependent on both the nature of the active pharmaceutical ingredient and that of the calix[6]arene receptor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objectives: Anxiety and depression are prevalent psychopathologies that affect twice as many women than men. Although the role of biological factors has been investigated, it has been argued that gender roles – defined by the feminine and masculine characteristics that society attributes to men and women – should also be considered. Gender roles are dynamic and shaped by life experiences. To date, most studies investigating the impact of gender roles on depressive and anxiety symptoms have recruited students. Here, we examined the impact of gender roles on depression and anxiety in healthy students and workers. Methods: Pooled data combining the Bem Sex-Role Inventory, State and Trait Anxiety Inventory and Beck Depression Inventory-II from 108 students (50 men) and 151 workers (75 men) aged 18–65 years old were analyzed. Gender roles were operationalized using continuous and categorical methods. Results: Higher masculinity predicted lower anxiety and depressive symptoms. The relationship between masculinity and anxiety was however only present for students. Higher feminity was associated with higher anxiety and lower depressive symptoms, and these relationships were not moderated by the student/worker status. Conclusion: Gender roles may relate to mental health differently according to the student/worker status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent findings suggest that tree mortality and post‐drought recovery of gas exchange can be predicted from loss of function within the water transport system. Understanding the susceptibility of plants to hydraulic damage requires knowledge about the vulnerability of different plant organs to stress‐induced hydraulic dysfunction. This is particularly important in the context of vulnerability segmentation between plant tissues which is believed to protect more energetically 'costly' tissues, such as woody stems, by sacrificing 'cheaper' leaves early under drought conditions.Differences in vulnerability segmentation between co‐occurring plant species could explain divergent behaviours during drought, yet there are few studies considering how this characteristic may vary within a plant community. Here we investigated community‐wide vulnerability segmentation by comparing leaf/shoot and stem vulnerability in all coexistent dominant canopy and understory woody species in a diverse dry sclerophyll woodland community, including multiple angiosperms and one gymnosperm.Previously published terminal leaf/shoot vulnerability to loss of water transport capacity was compared with stem xylem vulnerability to embolism measured on the same species at the same site. We calculated hydraulic safety margins for stems to determine variation in the risk of hydraulic failure during drought among species.The xylem of all species was found to be highly resistant to hydraulic dysfunction, with only two of the eight species exhibiting significantly different vulnerability to the overall mean. No evidence of vulnerability segmentation between shoots/leaves and stems was found in seven of the eight species.Phylogenetically diverse canopy and understory species in this evergreen sclerophyll woodland appear to have evolved similar strategies of drought resistance, including low xylem vulnerability to embolism and general lack of vulnerability segmentation. This convergence in hydraulic safety indicates a lack of hydraulic niche partitioning in this woodland community. A free plain language summary can be found within the Supporting Information of this article. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, nickel (Ni) deficiency symptoms has been observed in commercial pecan [Carya illinoinensis (Wangenh.) K. Koch.] orchards in New Mexico. Nickel deficiency can cause a reduction in lignin formation, which could affect the risk for breakage on pecan tree shoots. Ni deficiency might furthermore disrupt ureide catabolism in pecan and, therefore, could negatively affect nitrogen (N) nutrition in the plant. The objective of this study was to identify the effects of Ni and N fertilizer applications, at two rates, on net photosynthesis (Pn), leaf greenness (SPAD), and branch lignin concentration in New Mexico's nonbearing pecan trees. Sixty trees for year 2012 (Pawnee and Western cultivars) and 40 trees for year 2013 (Pawnee cultivar) were used at two New Mexico locations (Artesia and LasCruces) to evaluate the effects of Ni and N on tree measures. Treatments were as follows: (1) High N plus Ni (+Ni); (2) Low N no Ni (-Ni); (3) High N-Ni; and (4) Low N +Ni. In 2012 and 2013, there was an increase in leaf greenness for each location and cultivar (tree group) through time (June to September). Photosynthesis measures in 2012 differed between tree group, time in the season, and N and Ni treatments. In 2013, Pn was influenced by tree group and time (P < 0.0001), but N and Ni interaction did not present a significant effect related to Ni benefits. Photosynthesis varied over time in 2012 and 2013, with an inconsistent pattern. In this study, Ni application at the high N rate had a negative effect on 'Pawnee' Pn early in the season at the Artesia site, but this application had a positive effect for 'Western' from Artesia at the low N level, also early in the season. Lignin content varied between tree groups only. The application of N and Ni did not affect lignin in pecan shoots. The results show an inconsistent pattern regarding the benefits of Ni on nonbearing pecan orchards for leaf greenness, Pn, and lignin content during the 2-year study. Future studies on Ni should focus on pecan trees exhibiting leaf Ni deficiency symptoms or on soils with less than 0.14 mg⋅kg-1 of DTPA extractable Ni, as well as the long-term effect of Ni on pecan growth and development to optimize the addition of Ni into an efficient fertilization program. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on paradox arising for many working class, poor, and vulnerable whites rewarding the punishing Republicans at the ballot box. Topics include Wealthy Republicans in Congress and Red state legislatures seeking for depriving vulnerable Americans of health care, educational benefits, and unemployment insurance; and having cognitive linguistics and the cognitive neurosciences illuminating political behavior.

Stigma may strain the heart health of lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals. To date, however, LGB-related differences in cardiovascular diagnosis, risk factors, and basal biomarkers are inconsistently reported. Using a laboratory-based stress paradigm, the current study assessed whether cardiovascular stress reactivity differs as a function of sexual orientation and disclosure status ("coming out") in a sample of healthy young LGB and heterosexual adults. Eighty-seven participants aged 18–45 (M = 24.61 ± 0.61 SE) identifying as LGB and heterosexual (47%) were exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test, a well-validated laboratory stressor involving public speaking and mental arithmetic. Throughout a two-hour session, ambulatory recordings for heart rate and blood pressure were collected. Self-report questionnaires were also administered to assess psychosocial and demographic variables. Gay/bisexual men showed higher heart rate and lesbian/bisexual women showed marginally higher mean arterial blood pressure in response to a stressor, compared to sex- and age-matched heterosexuals. No significant differences emerged when comparing LGB individuals who had completely disclosed and those that had not completely disclosed their sexual orientation to family and friends. Compared to heterosexuals, heart rate is higher among gay/bisexual men and blood pressure is marginally higher among lesbian/bisexual women when exposed to a laboratory-based stressor. These preliminary findings contribute to small literature on sexual orientation differences in stress reactive biomarkers that requires further exploration. In response to stress exposure in a laboratory, gay/bisexual men showed higher heart rate than heterosexual men. By contrast, lesbian/bisexual showed a non-significant tendency towards higher blood pressure than heterosexual women. These preliminary findings suggest that the heart health of LGB individuals might be strained by stigma exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the origins of the melancholy of Huckleberry Finn, a fictional character created by Mark Twain who first appeared in the book "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and the protagonist and narrator of its sequel, "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn." Topics covered include Twain's admission that he based the character on the son of a drunkard named Tom Blankenship and the sad and depressing childhood experiences of Twain.

Objective: To assess the relationship between the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry (SCIP) score and illness severity, subjective cognition and functioning in a cohort of major depressive disorder (MDD) patients. Methods: Patients (n=40) diagnosed with MDD (DSM-IV-TR) completed the SCIP, a brief neuropsychological test, and a battery of self-administered questionnaires evaluating functioning (GAF, SDS, WHODAS 2.0, EDEC, PDQ-D5). Disease severity was evaluated with the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS) and the Clinical Global Impression (CGI). Results: Age and sex were associated with performance in the SCIP. The SCIP-Global index score was associated with disease severity (r=-0.316, p<.05), the SDS, a patient self-assessment of daily functioning (r=-0.368, p<.05), and the EDEC subscales of patient-reported cognitive deficits (r=-0.388, p<.05) and their functional impacts (r=-0.335, p<.05). Multivariate analysis adjusted for age and sex confirmed these tests are independent predictors of performance in the SCIP (CGI-S, F[3,34]=4.478, p=.009; SDS, F[3,34]=3.365, p=.030; EDEC-perceived cognitive deficits, F[3,34]=5.216, p=.005; EDEC-perceived impacts of functional impairment, F[3,34]=5.154, p=.005). Conclusions: This study confirms that the SCIP can be used during routine clinical evaluation of MDD, and that cognitive deficits objectively assessed in the SCIP are associated with disease severity and selfreported cognitive dysfunction and impairment in daily life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Allostatic load algorithms have provided a comprehensive way to assess the causes and consequences of chronic stress. In general, allostatic load is calculated using a count-based index representing the number of biomarkers attaining cut-offs. These cut-offs are traditionally derived from the sample's biomarker distributions that can create challenges for researchers trying to select the most appropriate algorithm. Using different datasets, we explore various configurations of allostatic load algorithms based on (1) group-based distributions without consideration of any other variables, (2) clinically-based distributions derived from population norms, (3) comparison-based anchoring distributions on a separate control sample, and (4) sex- and gender-based considerations. These different allostatic load formulations are next tested in association with various social determinants of health as well as psychiatric symptoms with a statistical concentration on effect magnitudes. While the traditional count-based approach of calculating allostatic load is the most common approach in the literature and the simplest, it does correlate as strongly with social determinants of health as do alternative allostatic load formulations. Moreover, associations with psychiatric symptoms were stronger when using cut-offs based on clinical norms or comparison groups. Lastly, sex- and gender-specific profiles of psychiatric symptoms align better with allostatic load formulations that are calculated disaggregated by birth-assigned sex or gender identity. To date, there is no consensus on the best way to calculate a "standard" allostatic load index. We contribute to this debate by showing the importance of modifying allostatic load calculations based on your sample and your research questions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Individuals requiring psychiatric emergency services are often highly distressed and intoxicated. To provide an objective and comprehensive measure of their stress-related physiological dysregulations, we indexed allostatic load with 14 biomarkers collected within 24 h of patients' admission to the largest psychiatric hospital in the Canadian province of Quebec.Methods: This study (N = 278) combines data for emergency patients (n = 76; 65.8% women; M age = 44.97, SE = 1.6) and hospital workers who served as sex- and age-matched controls (n = 202; 70.8% women; M age = 40.10, SE = 0.83). Sex-specific allostatic load indices summarized neuroendocrine (cortisol), immune (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-6, c-reactive protein), metabolic (insulin, glycosylated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, low-density lipoprotein, triglycerides, body mass index), and cardiovascular (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure) functioning. Well-validated questionnaires assessed substance (ab)use.Results: Individuals presenting at psychiatric emergency showed elevated allostatic load, drug abuse, and tobacco use compared to controls. Elevated allostatic load in emergency patients was driven by elevated cortisol, interleukin-6, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate; however, allostatic load was not explained by substance (ab)use or demographic variables. Sub-group analyses revealed that emergency patients primarily diagnosed with bipolar, depressive, or anxiety disorders showed higher allostatic load than those diagnosed with personality disorder(s).Conclusions: This study demonstrates that individuals presenting at psychiatric emergency services show physiological dysregulations associated with chronic stress. Future research should explore the clinical utility of allostatic load in predicting comorbidities among psychiatric patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although recent findings suggest that xylem embolism represents a significant, drought-induced damaging process in land plants, substantial debate surrounds the capacity of long-vesseled, ring-porous species to resist embolism. We investigated whether recent methodological developments could help resolve this controversy within Quercus, a long-vesseled, ring-porous temperate angiosperm genus, and shed further light on the importance of xylem vulnerability to embolism as an indicator of drought tolerance. We used the optical technique to quantify leaf and stem xylem vulnerability to embolism of eight Quercus species from the Mediterranean-type climate region of California to examine absolute measures of resistance to embolism as well as any potential hydraulic segmentation between tissue types. We demonstrated that our optical assessment reflected flow impairment for a subset of our sample species by quantifying changes in leaf hydraulic conductance in dehydrating branches. Air-entry water potential varied 2-fold in leaves, ranging from -1.7 ± 0.25 MPa to -3.74 ± 0.23 MPa, and 4-fold in stems, ranging from -1.17 ± 0.04 MPa to -4.91 ± 0.3 MPa. Embolism occurred earlier in leaves than in stems in only one out of eight sample species, and plants always lost turgor before experiencing stem embolism. Our results show that long-vesseled North American Quercus species are more resistant to embolism than previously thought and support the hypothesis that avoiding stem embolism is a critical component of drought tolerance in woody trees. Accurately quantifying xylem vulnerability to embolism is essential for understanding species distributions along aridity gradients and predicting plant mortality during drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the last five decades, science has managed to delineate the mechanisms by which stress hormones can impact on the human brain. Receptors for glucocorticoids are found in the hippocampus, amygdala and frontal cortex, three brain regions involved in memory processing and emotional regulation. Studies have shown that chronic exposure to stress is associated with reduced volume of the hippocampus and that chronic stress can modulate volumes of both the amygdala and frontal cortex, suggesting neurotoxic effects of stress hormones on the brain. Yet, other studies report that exposure to early adversity and/or familial/social stressors can increase vulnerability to stress in adulthood. Models have been recently developed to describe the roles that neurotoxic and vulnerability effects can have on the developing brain. These models suggest that developing early stress interventions could potentially counteract the effects of chronic stress on the brain and results going along with this hypothesis are summarized. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death among transgender women and people with HIV. Exogenous estrogen and psychosocial stressors are known risk factors for CVD. Yet, few studies have used biomarkers to examine the role of stress in CVD risk among transgender women with HIV (TWHIV). This analysis examined whether stress moderates relationships between gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) duration and CVD risk among TWHIV. This cross-sectional analysis of baseline data from an observational cohort of 108 Black and Latina TWHIV in Boston, New York, and Washington, DC, enrolled December 2020 to June 2022, measured sociodemographics, medical diagnoses, medications, smoking history, and perceived stress via interviewer-administered surveys. Physiological stress was measured with 14 biomarkers to calculate allostatic load indices (ALI). Forty participants provided saliva samples used to calculate cortisol awakening response and cortisol daily decline. The 2018 American College of Cardiology Revised Pooled Cohort Equation estimated 10-year CVD risk. Data were analyzed in 2024. GAHT duration was positively associated with CVD risk scores in bivariate regression. In multivariable linear regression models (adjusting for age, income, education), only age and ALI remained significantly associated with CVD risk scores (β 1.13, CI: 1.05, 1.21). No stress measure significantly interacted with GAHT duration to affect CVD risk scores. In visual plots, GAHT duration increased CVD risk scores only for TWHIV experiencing the highest ALI. Stress plays an important role in CVD in TWHIV. More research is needed on non-GAHT factors, which influence CVD health among transgender women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Much of the extant scientific research examining hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA)-axis functioning is conducted among White heterosexuals. Very little research examines HPA-axis functioning between different minority groups. Individuals who identify as both sexual and racial minorities may experience increased stigma and discrimination that can affect HPA-axis functioning. In the current study, we examined diurnal cortisol rhythm in young White gay men (WGM) compared to young Black gay men (BGM). The sample consisted of 70 healthy gay men (mean [SD] age = 22.9 [3.2]: 68% White and 38% Black) who collected four saliva samples daily for five days. Repeated measures analysis of covariance and post-hoc tests revealed that BGM had higher cortisol levels than WGM in the evening. Secondary analyses revealed no significant group differences for the cortisol awakening response or systemic output throughout the day. However, BGM compared to WGM had a lower drop from peak (morning) to lowest (evening) cortisol concentrations. Taken together, these findings reveal a flatter diurnal cortisol rhythm among BGM compared to WGB. The functional significance of these preliminary findings must be explored further with assessment of psychosocial factors among sexual minorities at the intersection of multiple identities. In summary, we expand health disparities research aimed at delineating sexual minority and race/ethnic variation in stress physiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study assessed sexual orientation and psychobiological stress indices in relation to salivary sex hormones as part of a well-validated laboratory-based stress paradigm. Participants included 87 healthy adults that were on average 25 years old who self-identified as lesbian/bisexual women ( n = 20), heterosexual women ( n = 21), gay/bisexual men ( n = 26), and heterosexual men ( n = 20). Two saliva samples were collected fifteen minutes before and fifteen minutes after exposure to a modified Trier Social Stress Test to determine testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone concentrations via enzyme-immune assaying. Mean sex hormones were further tested in association to stress indices related to cortisol systemic output (area under the curve with respect to ground) based on ten measures throughout the two-hour visit, allostatic load indexed using 21 biomarkers, and perceived stress assessed using a well-validated questionnaire. Results revealed that lesbian/bisexual women had higher overall testosterone and progesterone concentrations than heterosexual women, while no differences were found among gay/bisexual men in comparison to heterosexual men. Lesbian/bisexual women and heterosexual men showed positive associations between mean estradiol concentrations and allostatic load, while gay/bisexual men and heterosexual women showed positive associations between mean testosterone and cortisol systemic output. In summary, sex hormone variations appear to vary according to sexual orientation among women, but also as a function of cortisol systemic output, allostatic load, and perceived stress for both sexes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The United States is now relying on Reaper and Predator drone strikes as its primary strategy in the continuing "war on terrorism." This paper argues for the rational scrutiny drone warfare has not yet received. Rather than a Just War critique, my focus is on the rhetoric used to justify drone warfare as the technologically most efficient and militarily appropriate response to terrorist threats. This rationalizing rhetoric evokes mythical claims about American exceptionalism. Myths in turn trigger linguistic frames that have the effect of subverting rational thinking about the ethical uses of technology and the best ways of defending America from terrorists. I conclude by noting the seriousness of this investigation for the present debate over armed drone warfare, for--given the reasons 1 present--rather than a long-term reduction in the likelihood of terrorists strikes, the U.S.'s reliance on armed drones strikes threatens to institutionalize terrorism as the status quo for the foreseeable future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Salivary alpha-amylase (sAA) is a stress-sensitive biomarker the shows promise as an indirect proxy of sympathetic-adrenal-medullary axis activities that are otherwise difficult to discern non-invasively. This comprehensive study investigated diurnal sAA in association with numerous psychosocial characteristics related to mental health, work stress, and non-work stress. Participants included 395 workers (56.1% women, age: M = 41.3, SD = 10.81) from across 34 distinct workplaces. Diurnal sAA was sampled over two non-consecutive work days at awakening, 30 min after awakening, 14h00, 16h00, and bedtime. Well-validated psychometrics and survey items were used to measure mental health (psychological distress, depression, burnout, work characteristics) (task design, demands, social relations, gratifications), and non-work characteristics (marital/parental status, economic statuses, marital and parental stress, work-family conflicts). Preliminary results revealed that men showed occasionally higher sAA concentrations than women. Multilevel regressions were used to analyze sAA concentrations nested according to levels (i) for each time-point, (ii) between workers, and (iii) across workplaces while covarying for time of awakening, sex, age, cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, regular physical activity, psychotropic drug use, and body mass index. Main results revealed that psychological demands, support from colleagues, interpersonal conflicts, job recognition and job insecurity appear to be associated with diurnal sAA, while non-work factors did not. Our findings showing a distinct diurnal profile for sAA replicate and expand those of Nater et al. (2007, Psychoneuroendocrinology 32, 392–401) , providing further evidence that sAA is associated to subjective psychosocial factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lesbian, gay men, and bisexual individuals (LGBs) often experience distress related to the recognition, self-acceptance, and disclosure of their sexual orientation.Objectives and Design: Retrospectively reported coping strategies enacted during sexual identity formation among LGBs were assessed in relation to current stress indices measured using environmental (frequency of perceived daily hassles), psychological (perceived distress), and biological (allostatic load [AL] levels representing physiological dysregulations) perspectives.Methods: Forty-six healthy LGBs between the ages of 18 and 45 (M = 23.91, SE = .80) participated. Questionnaires included the Ways of Coping Checklist adapted to disclosure milestones, Daily Hassles Inventory, and Perceived Stress Scale. AL was calculated using 21 biomarkers of neuroendocrine, immune, cardiovascular, and metabolic functioning.Results: Avoidance coping during sexual identity formation was positively associated with frequency of daily hassles (β = .598, p < .001), perceived stress (β = .361, p = .015), and AL (β = .405, p = .006). By contrast, seeking social support was negatively associated with perceived stress (β = -.598, p = .048).Conclusions: Emotion-focused coping strategies during LGB sexual identity development are associated with current indices of biopsychosocial stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chronic psychosocial stress increases disease risk and mortality, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely unclear. Here we outline an energy-based model for the transduction of chronic stress into disease over time. The energetic model of allostatic load (EMAL) emphasizes the energetic cost of allostasis and allostatic load, where the "load" is the additional energetic burden required to support allostasis and stress-induced energy needs. Living organisms have a limited capacity to consume energy. Overconsumption of energy by allostatic brain-body processes leads to hypermetabolism , defined as excess energy expenditure above the organism's optimum. In turn, hypermetabolism accelerates physiological decline in cells, laboratory animals, and humans, and may drive biological aging. Therefore, we propose that the transition from adaptive allostasis to maladaptive allostatic states, allostatic load, and allostatic overload arises when the added energetic cost of stress competes with longevity-promoting growth, maintenance, and repair. Mechanistically, the energetic restriction of growth, maintenance and repair processes leads to the progressive wear-and-tear of molecular and organ systems. The proposed model makes testable predictions around the physiological, cellular, and sub-cellular energetic mechanisms that transduce chronic stress into disease risk and mortality. We also highlight new avenues to quantify allostatic load and its link to health across the lifespan, via the integration of systemic and cellular energy expenditure measurements together with classic allostatic load biomarkers. • Allostasis and allostatic load cost energy • The organism's energy consumption capacity is biologically limited • The transition from allostasis to allostatic load is defined by an energetic tradeoff where allostasis and stress-related energy costs compete with growth, maintenance, and repair • The energetic model of allostatic load (EMAL) makes testable predictions requiring further research [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondria transform the oxygen we breathe and the food we eat to power all brain–body or mind–body processes that produce human experiences. Experimental studies in animals with mitochondrial defects show that mitochondria influence the perception of stressors and/or the resulting psychobiological responses relevant to resilience and aging. Different individuals exhibit qualitative and quantitative differences in their affective, neural, and physiological stress responses; these may in part be explained by interindividual differences in mitochondrial biology, a question not previously examined in humans. The Mitochondrial Stress, Brain Imaging, and Epigenetics (MiSBIE) study includes participants with rare genetic mitochondrial lesions, plus psychobiological stress-response paradigms to examine the mind–mitochondria connection with as much specificity as possible in humans. The MiSBIE dataset and biobank include deep, multivariate phenotyping covering the hallmarks of psychobiology, detailed in the supplemental information online for this article, and data can be requested by the scientific community from the MiSBIE team. Health emerges from coordinated psychobiological processes powered by mitochondrial energy transformation. But how do mitochondria regulate the multisystem responses that shape resilience and disease risk across the lifespan? The Mitochondrial Stress, Brain Imaging, and Epigenetics (MiSBIE) study was established to address this question and determine how mitochondria influence the interconnected neuroendocrine, immune, metabolic, cardiovascular, cognitive, and emotional systems among individuals spanning the spectrum of mitochondrial energy transformation capacity, including participants with rare mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) lesions causing mitochondrial diseases (MitoDs). This interdisciplinary effort is expected to generate new insights into the pathophysiology of MitoDs, provide a foundation to develop novel biomarkers of human health, and integrate our fragmented knowledge of bioenergetic, brain–body, and mind–mitochondria processes relevant to medicine and public health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex differences in stress hormone functions are presumed to depend on sex hormones. And yet, surprisingly few psychoneuroendocrine studies actually assess within-sex variations of testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone when investigating sex-specific activities of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis. In this methodological study of 204 healthy adults (60 men), we assessed whether cortisol profiles would differ between the sexes when unadjusted or adjusted for basal sex hormones among both sexes. Reactive cortisol was sampled using 6 saliva samples measured every 10-min as part of the Trier Social Stress Test that generally activates cortisol among men more than women. Diurnal cortisol was sampled over two days at (1) awakening, (2) 30-min thereafter, (3) 1400 h, (4) 1600 h, and (5) bedtime. Sex hormones were collected at baseline before the psychosocial stressor and on two occasions during diurnal cortisol assessment. Repeated-measures analysis of covariance controlled for key covariates in analyses unadjusted or adjusted for sex hormones. Results revealed that men had higher reactive cortisol than women in unadjusted analysis, but this sex difference was attenuated when adjusting for sex hormones. While diurnal cortisol showed no sex differences in unadjusted models, adjusting for sex hormones revealed that women have higher morning cortisol. Correlations using area under the curve formulae revealed intriguing sex-specific associations with progesterone in men and testosterone in women that we propose have implications for social and affective neuroscience. In summary, our results reveal that adjusting for sex hormones alters “sex-specific” reactive and diurnal cortisol profiles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Mental health, well-being, and social life are intimately related as is evident from the higher incidence of psychiatric illness in individuals exposed to social stress and adversity. Several biological pathways linking social adversity to health outcomes are heavily investigated in the aims of facilitating early identification and prevention of adverse health outcomes. We provide a practice-orientated overview of the allostatic load model and how it relates to metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidity in psychiatric disorders.Conclusions: Allostatic load brings together a set of neuroendocrine, metabolic, immune and cardiovascular biomarkers that are elevated in individuals with adverse early life experiences and are predictive of cardiovascular and metabolic risk in psychiatric illness of critical importance for Indigenous Australians. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Perceptions of past, present, and future events may be related to stress pathophysiology. We assessed whether Time Perspective (TP) is associated with cortisol dynamics among healthy adults ( N = 61, Ages = 18–35, M = 22.9, SD = 4.1) exposed to the Trier Social Stress Test (TSST). TP was measured according to two profiles: maladaptive Deviation from Balanced TP (DBTP) and adaptive Deviation from Negative TP (DNTP). Eight salivary cortisol samples were analyzed using area under the curve with respect to ground (AUCg) and to increase (AUCi). Statistic analyses involved partial correlations controlling for depressive symptoms. Results for both sexes showed that higher DBTP scores were associated with lower cortisol AUCg scores, while higher DNTP scores were associated with higher cortisol AUCg scores. These novel findings suggest that maladaptive TP profiles influence hypocortisolism, whereas adaptive TP profiles influence hypercortisolism. Thus, TP profiles may impact conditions characterized by altered cortisol concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Biological sex differences and sociocultural gender diversity influence endocrine stress reactivity. Although numerous studies have shown that men typically activate stronger stress responses than women when exposed to laboratory-based psychosocial stressors, it is unclear whether sexual orientation further modulates stress reactivity. Given that lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals frequently report heightened distress secondary to stigma-related stressors, we investigated whether cortisol stress reactivity differs between LGB individuals and heterosexual individuals in response to a well-validated psychosocial stressor. Methods: The study population comprised 87 healthy adults (mean age, 25 years) who were grouped according to their biological sex and their gendered sexual orientation: lesbian/bisexual women (n = 20), heterosexual women (n = 21), gay/bisexual men (n = 26), and heterosexual men (n = 20). Investigators collected 10 salivary cortisol samples throughout a 2-hour afternoon visit involving exposure to the Trier Social Stress Test modified to maximize between-sex differences. Results: Relative to heterosexual women, lesbian/bisexual women showed higher cortisol stress reactivity 40 min after exposure to the stressor. In contrast, gay/bisexual men displayed lower overall cortisol concentrations throughout testing compared with heterosexual men. Main findings were significant while adjusting for sex hormones (estradiol-to-progesterone ratio in women and testosterone in men), age, self-esteem, and disclosure status (whether LGB participants had completed their "coming out"). Conclusions: Our results provide novel evidence for gender-based modulation of cortisol stress reactivity based on sexual orientation that goes beyond well-established between-sex differences. This study raises several important avenues for future research related to the physiologic functioning of LGB populations and gender diversity more broadly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While the genome for a given organism stores the information necessary for the organism to function and flourish it is the proteins that are encoded by the genome that perhaps more than anything else characterize the phenotype for that organism. It is therefore not surprising that one of the many approaches to understanding and predicting protein folding and properties has come from genomics and more specifically from multiple sequence alignments. In this work I explore ways in which data derived from sequence alignment data can be used to investigate in a predictive way three different aspects of protein structure: secondary structures, inter-residue contacts and the dynamics of switching between different states of the protein. In particular the use of Kolmogorov complexity has identified a novel pathway towards achieving these goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nationalism in Western art music has long been a source of intense controversy. Scholars have struggled to provide an adequate definition of the phenomenon with varying degrees of success; principally because it has always been assumed that the national in music must include purely musical elements in its definition. This assumption has led to often grossly inadequate ideas about how nationalism in music is created by a composer and perceived by a listener. A brief review and reassessment of traditional attempts to define nationalism in music may shed new light on the aesthetic realties of the national in music. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Transgender and gender diverse people face significant stigma that can adversely affect their physical and mental health. However, the psychobiological link between lived experience and health has been underexplored in this population. We thus examine perceived distress, mental health, and physiological 'wear and tear' by indexing allostatic load (AL) and assess associations with a range of contextual and experiential factors from transmasculine people living in the United States. Sixty-five people who identified as transgender men or along a transmasculine spectrum, living in Massachusetts, Vermont, and Rhode Island participated in The Transition Experience Study (age: M = 31.8, range 18–55), which examines lived experience of social and medical transition and embodied gender minority/marginalization stress among a sample of transmasculine people. Based on in-depth in-person interview and survey data and inspired by an ecological systems model, we created indices representing (1) perceived progressive geopolitical climate; (2) socio-demographic advantage; (3) social support and resources; (4) gender minority and marginalization stressors; and (5) health behaviors. The Perceived Stress Scale and psychological symptoms (depression, anxiety, insomnia) were also assessed. AL indexed 10 neuroendocrine, immune, cardiovascular, and metabolic biomarkers. Regressions revealed that perceived stress and psychological symptoms were negatively correlated with progressive geopolitical climate (respectively B = −1.47, p = 0.19; B = −.77, p <.001) and positively correlated with gender minority and marginalization stressors (respectively B = 1.51, p <.001; B =.38, p =.005). AL was negatively associated with perceived progressive geopolitical climate (B = −.55, p =.007) and socio-demographic advantage (B = −3.2, p =.001). These findings underline the importance of assessing geopolitical context and indexing lived experiences and life domains along with biomarker sampling. Together, these enable the identification of psychobiological pathways to better nuance multi-level contributors to health and well-being and understand embodied inequalities. These analyses of embodied stigma inclusive of AL biomarkers thus provide a model to further research centering transgender people's health from youth through old age. • First mixed-methods study assessing allostatic load among transgender and gender diverse people. • Allostatic load was negatively associated with perceived progressive geopolitical climate and socio-demographic advantage. • Mental health symptoms correlated negatively with progressive geopolitical climate and positively with gender minority stressors. • Demonstrated utility of indexing lived experience to nuance multi-level factors impacting health among transgender people. • Provides a model for collecting biomarker samples and assessing allostatic load among transgender people. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lignins and their cross-linking to hemicelluloses detrimentally affect the cellulose-to-ethanol conversion of grass lignocelluloses. Screening appropriate grass cell walls and their compositional changes during the various steps of the process calls for a high-throughput analytical technique. Such a performance can be fulfilled by Fourier transform mid-infrared (FT-MIR) spectroscopy. In the present paper, a set of maize cell walls from mature stems were selected, including brown midrib samples. Lignin fractions were isolated by mild acidolysis to obtain a set of purified maize lignin standards. The lignin content and the percentage of lignin-derived p-hydroxyphenyl (H), guaiacyl (G), and syringyl (S) thioacidolysis monomers were determined. In addition, the composition of cell wall polysaccharides, as well as the amount of ester-linked p-coumaric (CA) and ferulic (FA) acids, was measured by wet chemistry. Partial least square (PLS) analyses were applied to infrared and chemical data of cell walls. The resulting models showed a good predictive ability with regard to the lignin content, to the frequency of S (or G) thioacidolysis monomers, and to the level of ester-linked CA of maize cell walls. The loading plots and regression coefficients revealed relevant infrared absorption bands. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The link between chronic psychosocial and metabolic stress and the pathogenesis of disease has been extensively documented. Nevertheless, the cellular mechanisms by which stressful life experiences and their associated primary neuroendocrine mediators cause biological damage and increase disease risk remain poorly understood. The allostatic load model of chronic stress focuses on glucocorticoid dysregulation. In this Perspectives, we expand upon the metabolic aspects of this model-particularly glucose imbalance-and propose that mitochondrial dysfunction constitutes an early, modifiable target of chronic stress and stress-related health behaviours. Central to this process is mitochondrial regulation of energy metabolism and cellular signalling. Chronically elevated glucose levels damage both mitochondria and mitochondrial DNA, generating toxic products that can promote systemic inflammation, alter gene expression and hasten cell ageing. Consequently, the concept of 'mitochondrial allostatic load' defines the deleterious structural and functional changes that mitochondria undergo in response to elevated glucose levels and stress-related pathophysiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]