Olfactomedin-like 2 A and B (OLFML2A and OLFML2B) profile expression in the retina of spotted gar (Lepisosteus oculatus) and bioinformatics mining.

Olfactomedin-like (OLFML) proteins are members of the olfactomedin domain-containing secreted glycoprotein (OLF) family. OLFML2A and OLFML2B are representative molecules of these glycoproteins. Olfactomedins are critical for the development and functional organization of the nervous system and retina, which is a highly conserved structure in vertebrates, having almost identical anatomical and physiological characteristics in multiple taxa. Spotted gar, a member of the Lepisosteidae family, is a freshwater fish that inhabits rivers, bayous, swamps, and brackish waters. Recently, the complete genome has been sequenced, providing a unique bridge between fish medical models to human biology, making it an excellent animal model. This study was aimed to understanding the evolution OLFML2A and OLFML2B in the retina of spotted gar through looking for the expression of these genes. Spotted gar retina was analyzed with hematoxylin-eosin staining assays to provide an overall view of the retina structure and an immunofluorescence assay to identify OLFML2A and OLFML2B protein expression. A phylogenetic tree was created using the neighbor-joining method. Forces that direct the evolution of the fish genes were tested. Spotted gar retina, as in other vertebrates, is made of several layers. OLFML2A and OLFML2B proteins were detected in the rod and cone photoreceptor layer (PRL), outer nuclear layer (ONL), and inner nuclear layer (INL). Phylogenetic tree analysis confirms the orthology within the OLFML2A gene. Purifying selection is the evolutionary force that directs the OLFML2A genes. OLFML2A genes have a well-conserved function over time and species.

Reducing clinical errors in cancer education: interpreter training.

Over 22 million US residents are limited English proficient. Hospitals often call upon untrained persons to interpret. There is a dearth of information on errors in medical interpreting and their impact upon cancer education. We conducted an experimental study of standardized medical interpreting training on interpreting errors in the cancer encounter, by comparing trained and untrained interpreters, using identical content. Nine interpreted cancer encounters with identical scripts were recorded and transcribed. Using an "Error Analysis Tool," a bilingual linguist and two bilingual medical providers scored the transcripts for interpreting errors made, including their potential clinical severity. Trained interpreters were 70% less likely to have clinical errors than untrained ones. The likelihood of medical error increased with the length of the concept and decreased with the precision of vocabulary. It is important to train medical interpreters and to ensure their availability in cancer education encounters to minimize the risk for errors.

Meaning-Centered Psychotherapy for Latino Patients with Advanced Cancer: Cultural Adaptation Process.

Background: Latino patients with advanced cancer need culturally responsive, effective psychotherapeutic interventions that can assist them in coping with their diagnosis and improve spiritual and existential well-being and psychological adjustment. Objective: This study describes the cultural and linguistic adaptation of individual meaning-centered psychotherapy for Latinos with advanced cancer. Design: A mixed-methods, concurrent integrative approach was used for this study, using the ecological validity and cultural adaptation process models as frameworks for cultural adaptation. Setting/Subjects and Measurements: Quantitative and qualitative data were collected through (1) a survey of mental health professionals (n = 70) who offer services to Latino cancer patients; (2) a questionnaire for Latino patients with advanced cancer (n = 54), measuring relevant intervention concepts; and (3) in-depth interviews with 24 Latino patients. Results: Quantitative findings showed that most of the goals and concepts were highly acceptable for patients and providers. The qualitative findings supported adaptations to include using more simple definitions; changing phrases that are challenging to translate and comprehend; using words that are common to all Latino cultures, providing more than one option if needed; simplifying the questions/reflections, as needed; changing the metaphors to be culturally congruent; and modifying content to make it responsive to Latino cultural values and norms. Conclusions: Findings demonstrate the need for adaptation to achieve the aims of the intervention, accounting for both linguistic and cultural considerations, emphasizing issues related to literacy, cultural and linguistic diversity, cultural values, and culturally congruent content. The mixed-methods approach is described to provide recommendations for clinicians, researchers, and program developers.