bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
D1 receptor antagonist-induced long-term depression in the medial prefrontal cortex of rat, in vivo: an animal model of psychiatric hypofrontality
Authors: Coppa-Hopman RD , Galle J , Pimkine D
Published: July 2008

Abstract

The objective of the following experiment was to induce a pathogenic hypofrontal condition by administering a dopamine-1 receptor (D1R) antagonist to rats. The pathophysiological effect of this manipulation upon glutamate-based long-term potentiation (LTP) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) was examined in vivo. Subjects were surgically implanted with stimulating electrodes into the corpus callosum and recording electrodes into the mPFC. High-frequency stimulation (HFS) was combined with the administration of the selective D1R family agonist A68930 hydrochloride (0.4 mg/kg/mL) and the selective D1R family antagonist SKF 83566 (0.15 mg/kg/mL). The administration of SKF 83566 hydrobromide prevented mPFC LTP, and resulted in HFS-induced long-term depression. This indicates that D1R activation is necessary for the induction of mPFC glutamate-based LTP. This is supported by our finding that the administration of A68930 hydrochloride combined with HFS induced LTP comparable with saline control levels, suggesting that D1R activation is necessary for the induction of baseline levels of mPFC LTP. Given that the mPFC governs executive behaviours that are subserved by LTP, such as working memory, these findings are relevant for the study of psychopathological conditions in which hypodopaminergic conditions exist in the mPFC and are correlated with psychiatric symptomotology, such as drug addiction and schizophrenia.
Human pharmacology of intravenous lisdexamfetamine dimesylate: abuse liability in adult stimulant abusers
Authors: Jasinski DR , Krishnan S
Published: July 2008

Abstract

The objective of this study is to determine the safety, tolerability and abuse liability of single intravenous (i.v.) doses of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX) and immediate-release d-amphetamine sulphate in adult stimulant abusers compared with placebo. Adult substance abusers were enrolled in this phase I, randomized, single-centre, double-blind study. An initial cohort of three subjects was enrolled to assess safety followed by a primary cohort that consisted of nine subjects. Single i.v. doses of LDX (25 or 50 mg), immediate-release d-amphetamine sulphate (10 or 20 mg) or placebo were administered at a minimum of 48-h intervals in a single-dose, three-way crossover design. 20 mg of d-amphetamine showed significantly increased abuse-related liking scores compared with placebo ( P < 0.05), whereas the liking effects of 50 mg LDX did not significantly differ from placebo. The mean Cmax of d-amphetamine was 38.9 ± 8.1 and 105 ± 91.4 ng/ml after the administration of 50 mg LDX and 20 mg d-amphetamine respectively. The mean Tmax of d-amphetamine was 2.51 h after the administration of 50 mg LDX and 0.82 h after the administration of 20 mg d-amphetamine. LDX was well tolerated in this population. In contrast to d-amphetamine, LDX administered intravenously did not produce significant subjective abuse-related liking scores at assessed doses.
The potential relationship between QTc interval prolongation and ziprasidone treatment: three cases
Authors: Eker SS , Sarandol A. , Akkaya C. , Sivrioglu EY , Kirli S.
Published: July 2008

QTc interval prolongation may appear as a consequence of both typical and atypical antipsychotic treatments. Ziprasidone, which is effective in treating schizophrenia, is associated with QTc prolongation. Although the prolongation of QTc with ziprasidone treatment is often pronounced, there is a scarce number of cases reported about the relationship between ziprasidone and QTc prolongation. Of the three cases presented in this case series, two cases showed values exceeding 0.50 s with ziprasidone treatment.
Positive interference of the analgesic nefopam in the urine immunoassay for benzodiazepines in a secure setting
Authors: Reid KS
Published: July 2008

An inpatient on a secure unit with a history of bipolar affective disorder and physical complaints including pain was prescribed carbamazepine, quetiapine, dihydrocodeine, nefopam, paracetamol and various aperients. A benzodiazepine urine test by immunoassay was positive. Initial literature searches did not suggest a candidate drug for positive interference. Other explanations were excluded. Positive results continued, despite room searches and other disruptive security measures. Further literature searches revealed one experimental series demonstrating positive interference of nefopam in the relevant assay. Benzodiazepine assays were negative after cessation of nefopam. This is the first such clinical case to our knowledge.
Incidence of craving for and abuse of gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) in different populations of treated alcoholics: an open comparative study
Authors: Caputo F. , Francini S. , Stoppo M. , Lorenzini F. , Vignoli T. , Del Re A. , Comaschi C. , Leggio L. , Addolorato G. , Zoli G. , Bernardi M.
Published: July 2008

Gamma-hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) is a drug currently used for the treatment of alcohol dependence. The aim of our study was to investigate the incidence of craving for and abuse of GHB in 47 patients enrolled and divided into four groups: group A (pure alcoholics), group B (alcoholics with a sustained full remission from cocaine dependence), group C (alcoholics with a sustained full remission from heroin dependence) and group D (alcoholics in a methadone maintenance treatment [MMT] programme). All patients were treated with an oral dose of GHB (50 mg/kg of body weight t.i.d.) for three months. Craving for GHB was statistically significant higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.001), C (P = 0.01) and D (P < 0.001), and in group C than in group D (P < 0.05). Abuse of GHB proved to be statistically significant higher in group B than in group A (P < 0.001) and D (P < 0.01), and in group C than in group A (P = 0.01) and D (P < 0.05). Thus, the administration of GHB in alcoholics with a sustained full remission from heroin or cocaine dependence is not recommended; however, this should not discourage physicians from using GHB for the treatment of pure alcoholics or alcohol dependents following a MMT.
The Impact of the CEO Pay Gap on Firm Competitive Behavior
Authors: Gnyawali Devi R. , Offstein Evan H. , Lau Rebecca S.
Published: July 2008

The authors investigate how pay differences between the CEO and the rest of the members of the top management team influence a firm's competitive behavior as reflected in the observable and purposeful competitive moves launched by the firm. Using data from the U.S. pharmaceutical industry, the authors found a positive relationship between the CEO pay gap and the volume and complexity dimensions of firm competitive behavior. The authors discuss both theoretical and managerial implications of these findings as they relate to important topics such as competitive strategy, corporate governance, and executive compensation.
Political Strategy and Cross-Cultural Variation in Games
Authors: Peregrine Peter N.
Published: July 2008

The author hypothesizes that games of strategy will be more prevalent in societies where political power is based on a “network strategy.” In such societies, political leaders manipulate social relations and symbols to aggrandize themselves. The author hypothesizes that such activities will promote the importance of obedience, and will foster the emergence and perpetuation of games of strategy. The author tests this hypothesis using data from a random sample of 26 societies, and finds strong support.
Efficacy of Atorvastatin for Achieving Cholesterol Targets After LDL-Cholesterol Based Dose Selection in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Ferrer-García Juan Carlos , Sanchez-Ballester Eva , Albalat-Galera Raquel , Berzosa-Sanchez Miguel , Herrera-Ballester Agustín
Published: July 2008

We analyzed the feasibility of an intensive lipid-lowering strategy based on a starting dose of atorvastatin according to baseline and target low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level (<2.6 mmol/L) in 202 statin-naïve patients with type 2 diabetes within 24 weeks. They were assigned to receive a daily dosage of atorvastatin based on their initial LDL-C levels. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving the LDL-C goal after 24 weeks of treatment. No changes were made in prescribed atorvastatin dosage. At the study end, 66.5% of the 188 patients completing the trial reached the LDL-C target (75%, 67%, 58% and 59% with 10, 20, 40 and 80 mg per day of atorvastatin, respectively) reached LDL-C target. Atorvastatin reduced the levels of total cholesterol, LDL-C, high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and tryglicerides by 29%, 35%, 3% and 22%, respectively, and all statin doses were well tolerated. Thus, individualizing the starting dose of atorvastatin according to baseline and target LDL-C levels, allowed a high proportion of type 2 diabetic patients to achieve the target within 24 weeks.
Survey of Toxicologic Testing Practices for a Violent Death Surveillance System
Authors: Larsen Gitte Y. , Barber Catherine , Kosegarten David , Olson Lenora M.
Published: July 2008

To explore the comparability of postmortem forensic toxicologic testing across jurisdictions, the authors administered a survey to 11 laboratories serving pilot sites for a violent death reporting system. With few exceptions, all sites tested for the same substances but did not use the same methodology. Limit of detection thresholds for drugs of abuse and psychoactive medications varied up to 30-fold, limiting the comparability of cross-jurisdictional toxicologic data.
Suicides and Suicide Attempts Following Homicide
Authors: Barber Catherine W. , Azrael Deborah , Hemenway David , Olson Lenora M. , Nie Carrie , Schaechter Judy , Walsh Sabrina
Published: July 2008

This study used linked, official data for population-based surveillance of homicides, suicides, and homicide–suicides in four U.S. states and four counties. Among 1,503 homicide incidents, less than 5% ( n = 74) were followed by the perpetrator's suicide and 1% ( n = 18) by a nonfatal suicide attempt. However, among men who killed their female intimate partner with a firearm, 59% also took their own life. Homicide–suicide perpetrators did not test positive for an antidepressant more often than other male suicide decedents (15% vs. 19%). Most (54%) perpetrators of nonfirearm homicides who attempted suicide lived; nearly all (93%) firearm perpetrators who attempted suicide died. Among men who killed their female intimate partner with a firearm, homicide–suicide was the norm. Better enforcement of existing laws designed to protect abuse victims by removing firearms from domestic abusers may also prevent abusers' suicides.
Leader-Member Exchange and Job Satisfaction Bond and Predicted Employee Turnover
Authors: Mardanov Ismatilla T. , Heischmidt Kenneth , Henson Amy
Published: July 2008

Results of hypotheses testing using the Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) scale and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) indicate that 7 out of 12 LMX measures (explaining 98% of the variance) and 6 out of 20 MSQ measures (explaining 71%-79% of the variance) were positive and significant. Satisfaction with supervision had a significant impact on job satisfaction, explaining 80.7% of the variance. In the near future, employee job satisfaction is predicted to be lower than satisfaction with supervision, due to absence of strong intrinsic motivation. Testing hypotheses on these scales also helped predict future employee turnover in the banking industry.
Selective accumulation of virus-specific CD8+ T cells with unique homing phenotype within the human bone marrow
Authors: Palendira Umaimainthan , Chinn Rosanna , Raza Wajid , Piper Karen , Pratt Guy , Machado Lee , Bell Andrew , Khan Naeem , Hislop Andrew D. , Steyn Richard , Rickinson Alan B. , Buckley Christopher D. , Moss Paul
Published: July 2008

The bone marrow plays a unique role within the immune system. We compared the phenotype and function of virus-specific CD8+ T cells from matched samples of human peripheral blood and bone marrow. Analysis of virus-specific memory CD8+ T cells showed widely divergent partition of antigen-specific populations between blood and bone marrow. T cells specific for Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) lytic antigens were enriched 3-fold in marrow compared with blood, whereas the response to EBV latent epitopes was equivalent between the 2 compartments. No difference in EBV viral load or expression of the EBV lytic protein was observed between blood and bone marrow. In direct contrast, although cytomegalo-virus (CMV)–specific T cells were the largest virus-specific population within peripheral blood, they were reduced by 60% within marrow. Bone marrow T cells were found to exhibit a unique CCR5+CXCR6+CXCR3− homing phenotype which has not been observed on T cells from other secondary lymphoid organs or peripheral organs. Expression of CCR5 and CXCR6 was higher on EBV-specific T cells within peripheral blood compared with CMV-specific populations. These observations identify a novel bone marrow homing phenotype for CD8+ memory T cells, which necessitates a reevaluation of the magnitude of antigen-specific populations within the lymphoid system.
SpliceCenter: A suite of web-based bioinformatic applications for evaluating the impact of alternative splicing on RT-PCR, RNAi, microarray, and peptide-based studies
Authors: Ryan Michael C , Zeeberg Barry R , Caplen Natasha J , Cleland James A , Kahn Ari B , Liu Hongfang , Weinstein John N
Published: July 2008

Background

Over 60% of protein-coding genes in vertebrates express mRNAs that undergo alternative splicing. The resulting collection of transcript isoforms poses significant challenges for contemporary biological assays. For example, RT-PCR validation of gene expression microarray results may be unsuccessful if the two technologies target different splice variants. Effective use of sequence-based technologies requires knowledge of the specific splice variant(s) that are targeted. In addition, the critical roles of alternative splice forms in biological function and in disease suggest that assay results may be more informative if analyzed in the context of the targeted splice variant.

Results

A number of contemporary technologies are used for analyzing transcripts or proteins. To enable investigation of the impact of splice variation on the interpretation of data derived from those technologies, we have developed SpliceCenter. SpliceCenter is a suite of user-friendly, web-based applications that includes programs for analysis of RT-PCR primer/probe sets, effectors of RNAi, microarrays, and protein-targeting technologies. Both interactive and high-throughput implementations of the tools are provided. The interactive versions of SpliceCenter tools provide visualizations of a gene's alternative transcripts and probe target positions, enabling the user to identify which splice variants are or are not targeted. The high-throughput batch versions accept user query files and provide results in tabular form. When, for example, we used SpliceCenter's batch siRNA-Check to process the Cancer Genome Anatomy Project's large-scale shRNA library, we found that only 59% of the 50,766 shRNAs in the library target all known splice variants of the target gene, 32% target some but not all, and 9% do not target any currently annotated transcript.

Conclusion

SpliceCenter http://discover.nci.nih.gov/splicecenter provides unique, user-friendly applications for assessing the impact of transcript variation on the design and interpretation of RT-PCR, RNAi, gene expression microarrays, antibody-based detection, and mass spectrometry proteomics. The tools are intended for use by bench biologists as well as bioinformaticists.
Analysis of variants in DNA damage signalling genes in bladder cancer
Authors: Choudhury Ananya , Elliott Faye , Iles Mark M , Churchman Michael , Bristow Robert G , Bishop D Timothy , Kiltie Anne E
Published: July 2008

Background

Chemicals from occupational exposure and components of cigarette smoke can cause DNA damage in bladder urothelium. Failure to repair DNA damage by DNA repair proteins may result in mutations leading to genetic instability and the development of bladder cancer. Immunohistochemistry studies have shown DNA damage signal activation in precancerous bladder lesions which is lost on progression, suggesting that the damage signalling mechanism acts as a brake to further tumorigenesis. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in DSB signalling genes may alter protein function. We hypothesized that SNPs in DSB signalling genes may modulate predisposition to bladder cancer and influence the effects of environmental exposures.

Methods

We recruited 771 cases and 800 controls (573 hospital-based and 227 population-based from a previous case-control study) and interviewed them regarding their smoking habits and occupational history. DNA was extracted from a peripheral blood sample and genotyping of 24 SNPs in MRE11, NBS1, RAD50, H2AX and ATM was undertaken using an allelic discrimination method (Taqman).

Results

Smoking and occupational dye exposure were strongly associated with bladder cancer risk. Using logistic regression adjusting for age, sex, smoking and occupational dye exposure, there was a marginal increase in risk of bladder cancer for an MRE11 3'UTR SNP (rs2155209, adjusted odds ratio 1.54 95% CI (1.13–2.08, p = 0.01) for individuals homozygous for the rare allele compared to those carrying the common homozygous or heterozygous genotype). However, in the hospital-based controls, the genotype distribution for this SNP deviated from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. None of the other SNPs showed an association with bladder cancer and we did not find any significant interaction between any of these polymorphisms and exposure to smoking or dye exposure.

Conclusion

Apart from a possible effect for one MRE11 3'UTR SNP, our study does not support the hypothesis that SNPs in DSB signaling genes modulate predisposition to bladder cancer.
Rift Valley fever virus structural proteins: expression, characterization and assembly of recombinant proteins
Authors: Liu Li , Celma Cristina CP , Roy Polly
Published: July 2008

Background

Studies on Rift Valley Fever Virus (RVFV) infection process and morphogenesis have been hampered due to the biosafety conditions required to handle this virus, making alternative systems such as recombinant virus-like particles, that may facilitate understanding of these processes are highly desirable. In this report we present the expression and characterization of RVFV structural proteins N, Gn and Gc and demonstrate the efficient generation of RVFV virus-like particles (VLPs) using a baculovirus expression system.

Results

A recombinant baculovirus, expressing nucleocapsid (N) protein of RVFV at high level under the control of the polyhedrin promoter was generated. Gel filtration analysis indicated that expressed N protein could form complex multimers. Further, N protein complex when visualized by electron microscopy (EM) exhibited particulate, nucleocapsid like-particles (NLPs). Subsequently, a single recombinant virus was generated that expressed the RVFV glycoproteins (Gn/Gc) together with the N protein using a dual baculovirus vector. Both the Gn and Gc glycoproteins were detected not only in the cytoplasm but also on the cell surface of infected cells. Moreover, expression of the Gn/Gc in insect cells was able to induce cell-cell fusion after a low pH shift indicating the retention of their functional characteristics. In addition, assembly of these three structural proteins into VLPs was identified by purification of cells' supernatant through potassium tartrate-glycerol gradient centrifugation followed by EM analysis. The purified particles exhibited enveloped structures that were similar to the structures of the wild-type RVFV virion particle. In parallel, a second recombinant virus was constructed that expressed only Gc protein together with N protein. This dual recombinant virus also generated VLPs with clear spiky structures, but appeared to be more pleomorphic than the VLPs with both glycoproteins, suggesting that Gc and probably also Gn interacts with N protein complex independent of each other.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that baculovirus expression system has enormous potential to produce large amount of VLPs that may be used both for fundamental and applied research of RVFV.
A survey of the luminance distribution in the nocturnal environment in Shanghai urban areas and the control of luminance of floodlit buildings
Authors: Li QiFeng , Yang GongXia , Yu LiHua , Zhang Haicong
Published: July 2008

A survey of the luminance distribution of the nocturnal environment in Shanghai urban areas, which included 11 locations and 16 buildings, was made. The 11 locations could be categorized as commercial, administration, leisure or residential. The average environmental luminance of these was recorded. The authors identified the effects of excessive exterior lighting. The luminance was measured and subjective appraisals made of 16 buildings. The writers have developed an empirical formula for arriving at the brightness level rating for floodlit buildings and recommended corresponding working ranges of luminance.
Lighting quality and office work: two field simulation experiments
Authors: Boyce P R , Veitch J A , Newsham G R , Jones C C , Heerwagen J , Myer M , Hunter C M
Published: July 2008

This paper describes two experiments concerning the effects of variations in lighting quality on office worker performance, health, and well-being. Experiment 1 had four experimental conditions: a regular array of fully direct recessed parabolic luminaires; direct/indirect luminaires with no control; direct/indirect luminaires with a switchable desk lamp; and, workstation-specific direct/indirect luminaires with control over the direct portion. Experiment 2 contrasted two conditions with no individual lighting control: a regular array of recessed prismatic lensed luminaires, and suspended direct/indirect luminaires. Participants considered the direct/indirect systems to be more comfortable than the direct-only systems, with a further increase in comfort associated with individual control in Experiment 1. There were no simple main effects of lighting quality on the performance of any task, although the expected changes in performance associated with task visibility, practice, and fatigue were found. Interactions between lighting quality and time suggested that having a degree of individual control of lighting tended to maintain motivation and vigilance over the day.
Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal Axis Activity of Newborn Mice Rapidly Desensitizes to Repeated Maternal Absence but Becomes Highly Responsive to Novelty
Authors: Enthoven L. , Oitzl M. S. , Koning N. , van der Mark M. , de Kloet E. R.
Published: July 2008

In CD1 mice we investigated the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis response to maternal separation for 8 h daily from postnatal d 3 to 5. At d 3 a slow separation-induced corticosterone response developed that peaked after 8 h, and the pups became responsive to stressors. On the second and third day, the response to 8 h separation rapidly attenuated, whereas the response to novelty did not, a pattern reflected by the hypothalamic c-fos mRNA response. If maternal separation and exposure to novelty were combined, then after the third such daily exposure, the sensitivity to the stressor was further enhanced. Meanwhile, basal corticosterone and ACTH levels were persistently suppressed 16 h after pups were reunited with their mothers. To explain the HPA axis desensitization after repeated separation, we found that circulating ghrelin levels increased and glucose levels decreased after all periods of maternal separation, ruling out a role of altered metabolism. Glucocorticoid feedback was not involved either because a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist amplified the corticosterone response after the first but became ineffective after the third separation. In contrast, a mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist decreased and increased corticosterone levels after the first and third period of separation, respectively. In conclusion, the newborn’s HPA axis readily desensitizes to repeated daily maternal separation, but continues to respond to novelty in a manner influenced by a central mineralocorticoid receptor- rather than glucocorticoid receptor-mediated mechanism.
Cell-type-specific transcription ofprosperois controlled by combinatorial signaling in theDrosophilaeye
Authors: Hayashi Takashi , Xu Chunyan , Carthew Richard W.
Published: July 2008

In Drosophila, Notch and Egfr signaling regulate the determination of many cell types, and yet how these common signals generate cell-specific transcription is not well understood. In the compound eye, prospero(pros) is transcribed specifically in R7 photoreceptors and cone cells. We show that the transcription of pros is activated by two visual-specific transcription selectors, Glass and Sine Oculis, that bind to an enhancer and promote its activation. Together with the pre-patterning transcription factor Lozenge, these factors work in a highly combinatorial manner, such that cells missing any one factor transcribe pros only weakly, if at all. However, the factors are not sufficient to activate the enhancer because of an additional requirement for both Notch and Egfr signals. The loss of Notch signaling produces a `salt and pepper' effect, with some cells expressing near-normal levels and others expressing no detectable pros at all; thus, the signaling loss does not produce a uniformly reduced level of transcription activity in cells. This suggests a probabilistic mechanism, in which Notch signals influence the likelihood that the enhancer is inactive or fully active in any given cell. The activity level, therefore, is dictated by the proper combination of highly cooperative selector and pre-pattern factors present in the cell.
Womb Mates: A Modern Guide to Fertility and TwinningGary Steinman and Christina Verni. New York: Baffin Books Publishing, 124pp. US$19.95, ISBN 978 0 9665 1051 5
Authors: Lambalk Nils
Published: July 2008

Womb Matesis dedicated to the ever-intriguing phenomenon of twinning. The book is intended for a general audience, in particular for those who are parents-to-be, pregnant couples and families with multiples.
Rigid occipitocervical fusion
Authors: Vale Fernando L. , Oliver Mark , Cahill David W.
Published: July 2008

For more than 50 years occipitocervical fusion has been performed for the management of craniocervical instability. Despite advances in technology, craniocervical fixation continues to be a technical challenge to the spine surgeon. The complex anatomy of the region and the frequent need for anterior and/or posterior decompressive procedures represent a mechanical disadvantage and are associated with a high failure rate. Numerous methods for spinal fixation have been developed, but none has gained widespread popularity. The use of plates and screws to obtain rigid fixation of the craniocervical junction is desirable because it allows correction of deformity, provides immediate stability, and precludes cranial settling. The technique is demanding and sometimes fraught with complications. Since 1992, the senior author (D.W.C.) has used a rigid plating technique to treat patients with craniocervical instability. This procedure proved more difficult than expected, and the operative procedure has evolved as experience has been gained.

The authors present a series of 24 patients and describe a technique that, in their experience, decreased the complication rate and improved the fusion rate. The technique involves a custom-designed "T-plate" that is attached to the midline occipital bone and to the cervical spine with lateral mass plates.
Inflammatory bowel disease and the craniocervical junction
Authors: Ryken Timothy , Menezes Arnold
Published: July 2008

Rheumatological complications have been described in up to 30% of patients being followed for inflammatory bowel disease. The majority of these complications occur as spondylitic changes in the lumbar spine. Erosive arthritic disease associated with inflammatory bowel disease occurs less frequently, but it can result in ligamentous laxity and joint instability. To highlight the potential significance of the process at the craniocervical junction, the authors describe the long-term follow-up care of a complicated case. A 56-year-old woman, with a long history of ulcerative colitis, presented with atlantoaxial instability and underwent a C1-3 fusion; however, the presence of significant occipitoatlantal instability was not recognized. This resulted in high cervicomedullary quadriplegia, requiring traction reduction and a combined anterior transoral decompressive-posterior occipitocervical fusion. The patient's neurological deficit completely resolved postoperatively.
Extracellular Proteins as Enterobacterial Thermometers
Authors: Rowbury Robin J.
Published: July 2008

Biological thermometers are cellular components or structures which sense increasing temperatures, interaction of the thermometer and the thermal stress bringing about the switching-on of inducible responses, with gradually enhanced levels of response induction following gradually increasing temperatures. In enterobacteria, for studies of such thermometers, generally induction of heat shock protein (HSP) synthesis has been examined, with experimental studies aiming to establish (often indirectly) how the temperature changes which initiate HSP synthesis are sensed; numerous other processes and responses show graded induction as temperature is increased, and how the temperature changes which induce these are sensed is also of interest. Several classes of intracellular component and structure have been proposed as enterobacterial thermometers, with the ribosome and the DnaK chaperone being the most favoured, although for many of the proposed intracellular thermometers, most of the evidence for their functioning in this way is indirect. In contrast to the above, the studies reviewed here firmly establish that for four distinct stress responses, which are switched-on gradually as temperature increases, temperature changes are sensed by extracellular components (extracellular sensing components, ESCs) i.e. there is firm and direct evidence for the occurrence of extracellular thermometers. All four thermometers described here are proteins, which appear to be distinct and different from each other, and on sensing thermal stress are activated by it to four distinct extracellular induction components (EICs), which interact with receptors on the surface of organisms to induce the appropriate responses. It is predicted that many other temperature-induced processes, including the synthesis of HSPs, will be switched-on following the activation of similar extracellular thermometers by thermal stimuli.
Adhesions of small intestine and urinary bladder to fracture callus within the pelvic canal in two dogs
Authors: Yudelevitch S.
Published: July 2008

In this case report, we report on two cases of pelvic fractures with uncommon complications that resulted from adhesions of the small intestine to the fracture callus in dogs. The most likely cause of the clinical signs in the first case was adhesions between a segment of the jejunum and a coccygeal callus which resulted in luminal narrowing. This was further complicated by small obstructing trichobezoars. In case 2, which was admitted with incontinence, adhesions were found between fractured pubic bone callus and both the urinary bladder and a segment of the jejunum.
Uterine Fibroids
Authors: Marsh Erica E. , Wegienka Ganesa , Williams David R.
Published: April 2024

This JAMA Insights in the Women’s Health series discusses the incidence, diagnosis, and treatment of uterine fibroids.
Onychomycosis
Authors: Rubin Adam I.
Published: April 2024

This Patient Page describes the risk factors, clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of onychomycosis.
Keratoacanthoma and Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma With PD-1 and PD-L1 Inhibitor Use
Authors: Aggarwal Pushkar , Clark Denise , Shah Aatman , Rismiller Kyle , Neltner Scott A.
Published: April 2024

This cross-sectional study assesses risk of dermatological immune-related adverse events associated with immunotherapy for cancer.
Assessing Time of Onset for Interstitial Lung Disease in Anti-MDA5 Antibody-Positive Dermatomyositis
Authors: Lin Rachel R. , Warp Peyton V. , Maderal Andrea D. , Elman Scott A.
Published: April 2024

This cohort study seeks to describe the time interval between interstitial lung disease and anti–melanoma differentiation-associated gene 5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis diagnoses.
Essentials of Informed Consent to Psychedelic Medicine
Authors: Marks Mason , Brendel Rebecca W. , Shachar Carmel , Cohen I. Glenn
Published: April 2024

Importance

Interest in administering psychedelic agents as mental health treatment is growing rapidly. As drugmakers invest in developing psychedelic medicines for several psychiatric indications, lawmakers are enacting legal reforms to speed access globally, and health agencies are preparing to approve these treatments. Meanwhile, US states, such as Oregon and Colorado, are making psychedelics available for supervised use outside the conventional health care system.

Observations

Despite legal change and potentially imminent regulatory approval in some countries, standards for integrating psychedelics into health care have lagged, including norms for designing and implementing informed consent processes. Informed consent is complicated by the unique features of psychedelics and their means of administration. Because no governments have approved any classic psychedelics for general medical or psychiatric use, only clinical researchers have obtained informed consent from trial participants. Accordingly, there is an unmet need for informed consent processes tailored to the challenges of administering psychedelics in nonresearch settings.

Conclusions and Relevance

Analysis of the challenges of designing and implementing psychedelic informed consent practices revealed 7 essential components, including the possibility of short- and long-term perceptual disturbances, potential personality changes and altered metaphysical beliefs, the limited role of reassuring physical touch, the potential for patient abuse or coercion, the role and risks of data collection, relevant practitioner disclosures, and interactive patient education and comprehension assessment. Because publicly available informed consent documents for psychedelic clinical trials often overlook or underemphasize these essential elements, sample language and procedures to fill the gap are proposed.
Operating Room Organization and Methodology of Surgical Activity Regulation
Authors: Mathon Bertrand , Kletz Frédéric
Published: April 2024

This article discusses the implementation of surgical activity regulation methodology in the operating room to reduce organizational dysfunction, improve quality of work life of the surgical staff, and decrease staff overtime.
Traumatic Brain Injuries After Falls From Height vs Falls at the US-Mexico Border Wall
Authors: Tenorio Alexander , Brandel Michael G. , McCann Carson P. , Doucet Jay J. , Costantini Todd W. , Khalessi Alexander A. , Ciacci Joseph D.
Published: April 2024

This cohort study examines the incidence, severity, and mortality of fall-related injuries among migrants at the US-Mexico border in San Diego, California.
The business of news in the AI economy
Authors: Sjøvaag Helle
Published: April 2024

This article considers the impact of AI on the economy and financing of journalism organizations. AI has structural implications on the news media beyond the practice of journalism and the management of news as a process. AI also shifts the premises of competition, competitive advantage, mergers and acquisitions, and IT capabilities in the news industries. Not least, it fundamentally challenges journalism's traditional business model. Considered hereunder is the two‐sided market model, journalism's traditional platform function, its network effects, and its public good characteristics. The aim of the article is, thus, to reconceptualize core economic features of the news industries in the context of AI to provide a vocabulary with which to assess the economic future of journalism in a data‐driven platform economy.
Progress in The Research of Lactate Metabolism Disruption And Astrocyte‐Neuron Lactate Shuttle Impairment in Schizophrenia: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Zhang Yingying , Tong Liang , Ma Li , Ye Hong , Zeng Shue , Zhang Shaochuan , Ding Yu , Wang Weiwei , Bao Tianhao
Published: April 2024

Schizophrenia (SCZ) is a complex neuropsychiatric disorder widely recognized for its impaired bioenergy utilization. The astrocyte‐neuron lactate shuttle (ANLS) plays a critical role in brain energy supply. Recent studies have revealed abnormal lactate metabolism in SCZ, which is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, tissue hypoxia, gastric acid retention, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, abnormal brain iron metabolism, cerebral white matter hypermetabolic activity, and genetic susceptibility. Furthermore, astrocytes, neurons, and glutamate abnormalities are prevalent in SCZ with abnormal lactate metabolism, which are essential components for maintaining ANLS in the brain. Therefore, an in‐depth study of the pathophysiological mechanisms of ANLS in SCZ with abnormal lactate metabolism will contribute to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of SCZ and provide new ideas and approaches for the diagnosis and treatment of SCZ.
Creating Anti‐Biofouling Surfaces by Degradable Main‐chain Polyphosphoester Polymer Brushes
Authors: Pérez Maria Brió , Resendiz‐Lara Diego A. , Matsushita Yuma , Kakinoki Sachiro , Iwasaki Yasuhiko , Hempenius Mark A. , de Beer Sissi , Wurm Frederik R.
Published: April 2024

The implementation of polymer brush coatings has proven crucial in biomedical and biotechnological applications for controlling biological interactions. Despite the extensive research and use of synthetic polymer coatings, concerns regarding their long‐term non‐biodegradability have arisen. This issue is significant as non‐degradable polymers can lead to complications such as inflammatory responses and bioaccumulation, highlighting the need for polymers that degrade in a controlled manner. To address this, polyphosphonate brushes are synthesized as anti‐biofouling coatings on silicon surfaces via controlled surface‐initiated organocatalytic ring‐opening polymerization (SI‐ROP) of cyclic phospholanes. 2‐Ethyl‐2‐oxo‐1,3,2‐dioxaphospholane and 2‐hexyl‐2‐oxo‐1,3,2‐dioxaphospholane are chosen as the monomers to prepare hydrophilic and hydrophobic brushes with thicknesses up to 55 nm, with a proven degradability in aqueous media. In addition, protein adsorption, bacterial adhesion, and biofilm formation are investigated as a function of the polyphosphonate side chain. Compared to non‐coated surfaces and polyester brushes, hydrophilic poly(2‐ethyl‐2‐oxo‐1,3,2‐dioxaphospholane) brushes have an enhanced resistance toward fouling of albumin, fibrinogen, and diluted human serum proteins, as well as toward Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. The stability and anti‐biofouling performance of hydrophilic polyphosphonate brushes position them as an attractive option as degradable materials for anti‐biofouling matrices on medical devices and/or lubricious coatings for artificial implant technologies.
An Efficient and Stable Inverted Structure Organic Solar Cell Using ZnO Modified by 2D ZrSe2 as a Composite Electron Transport Layer
Authors: Li Hongye , Yu Bo , Yu Huangzhong
Published: April 2024

As an electron transport layer (ETL) widely used in organic solar cells (OSCs), ZnO has problems with energy level mismatch with the active layer and excessive defects on the ZnO surface, which can reduce the efficiency of OSCs. Here, ZnO/ZrSe2 composite is fabricated by modifying ZnO with 2D ZrSe2. The XPS and first‐principles calculation (FPC) show that ZnO obtains electrons from ZrSe2 and forms interfacial dipoles toward the active layer, which decreases the work function of ZnO, thus reducing the interface barrier and favoring the collection of electrons in OSCs. At the same time, after ZrSe2 modification, the oxygen vacancy density on the ZnO surface decreases, thus improving the conductivity of ZnO. More importantly, the femtosecond transient absorption (Fs‐TA) shows that ZrSe2 selectively traps holes from the active layer, which prevents the holes from entering the ZnO, thereby reducing the probability of electron recombination. Finally, ZnO/ZrSe2 composite is used as a novel ETL in OSCs with PBDB‐T: ITIC, PM6:Y6 and PM6: L8‐BO as active layers, and obtaining 12.09%, 16.34%, and 18.24% efficiency, respectively. This study provides a method for the interface modification of ZnO, and further investigates the role of 2D nanosheets in the interface modification.
Engineering Microorganisms for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Liu Dingkang , Yu Lichao , Rong Haibo , Liu Lubin , Yin Jun
Published: April 2024

Cancer immunotherapy presents a promising approach to fight against cancer by utilizing the immune system. Recently, engineered microorganisms have emerged as a potential strategy in cancer immunotherapy. These microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, can be designed and modified using synthetic biology and genetic engineering techniques to target cancer cells and modulate the immune system. This review delves into various microorganism‐based therapies for cancer immunotherapy, encompassing strategies for enhancing efficacy while ensuring safety and ethical considerations. The development of these therapies holds immense potential in offering innovative personalized treatments for cancer.
Spatiotemporal Concurrent PARP Inhibitor Sensitization Based on Radiation‐Responsive Nanovesicles for Lung Cancer Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Kang Fei , Niu Meng , Zhou Zijian , Zhang Mingru , Xiong Hehe , Zeng Fantian , Wang Jing , Chen Xiaoyuan
Published: April 2024

The implementation of chemoradiation combinations has gained great momentum in clinical practices. However, the full utility of this paradigm is often restricted by the discordant tempos of action of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Here, a gold nanoparticle‐based radiation‐responsive nanovesicle system loaded with cisplatin and veliparib, denoted as CV‐Au NVs, is developed to augment the concurrent chemoradiation effect in a spatiotemporally controllable manner of drug release. Upon irradiation, the in situ generation of •OH induces the oxidation of polyphenylene sulfide from being hydrophobic to hydrophilic, resulting in the disintegration of the nanovesicles and the rapid release of the entrapped cisplatin and veliparib (the poly ADP‐ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor). Cisplatin‐induced DNA damage and the impairment of the DNA repair mechanism mediated by veliparib synergistically elicit potent pro‐apoptotic effects. In vivo studies suggest that one‐dose injection of the CV‐Au NVs and one‐time X‐ray irradiation paradigm effectively inhibit tumor growth in the A549 lung cancer model. This study provides new insight into designing nanomedicine platforms in chemoradiation therapy from a vantage point of synergizing both chemotherapy and radiation therapy in a spatiotemporally concurrent manner.
Living Artificial Skin: Photosensitizer and Cell Sandwiched Bacterial Cellulose for Chronic Wound Healing
Authors: Liu Xingang , Wang Meng , Cao Lei , Zhuang Jiahao , Wang Dandan , Wu Min , Liu Bin
Published: April 2024

Chronic wounds pose a significant global public health challenge due to their suboptimal treatment efficacy caused by bacterial infections and microcirculatory disturbances. Inspired by the biofunctionality of natural skin, an artificial skin (HV@BC@TBG) is bioengineered with bacterial cellulose (BC) sandwiched between photosensitizers (PS) and functionalized living cells. Glucose‐modified PS (TBG) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐functionalized living cells (HV) are successively modified on each side of BC through biological metabolism and bio‐orthogonal reaction. As the outermost layer, the TBG layer can generate reactive oxygen species (ROS) upon light illumination to efficiently combat bacterial infections. The HV layer is the inner layer near the diabetic wound, which servs as a living factory to continuously secrete VEGF to accelerate wound repair by promoting fibroblast proliferation and angiogenesis. The sandwiched structural artificial skin HV@BC@TBG is nontoxic, biocompatible, and demonstrated its ability to significantly accelerate the healing process of infected diabetic wounds, rendering it a promising next‐generation medical therapy for chronic wound management.
Base‐Promoted Selective Synthesis of Alkynyl Sulfides via C−S Bond Cleavage of Alkynyl Sulfonium Salts
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Su Mengke , Xu Hanmiao , Zhou Junqi , Wen Jian
Published: April 2024

An effective one‐pot approach has been devised for the selective synthesis of alkynyl sulfides through the cleavage of C−S bonds in alkynyl sulfonium salts. This method involves a base‐promoted nucleophilic ring‐opening and desulfurization pathway, enabling the efficient preparation of diverse alkynyl sulfide compounds. The reaction demonstrates excellent tolerance to various functional groups and proves applicable to the late‐stage functionalization of bioactive molecules and pharmaceuticals. Moreover, the practicality of this method has been underscored through scale‐up reaction and modification of alkynyl sulfide products.
The misuse of permanganate as a quantitative measure of soil organic carbon
Authors: Margenot Andrew J. , Wade Jordon , Woodings Finnleigh S.
Published: April 2024

In the last two decades, permanganate has been used to define what is assumed to be a labile or “active” soil carbon (C) pool, commonly referred to as “permanganate‐oxidizable carbon” (POXC). However, uncertainties in the reduction reaction (Mn7+ → Mn4+/Mn2+) and even greater uncertainties in the oxidation reaction (C? → C?) as well as the reaction of non‐C reductants in the soil sample preclude the calculation of milligram C per kilogram of soil oxidized. Combined variation in the reduction–oxidation reactions can entail up to fivefold variation in how much soil organic C is oxidized per unit permanganate reduced. Without determining final reduction state of Mn and the initial and final oxidation states of C, the amount of C oxidized cannot be calculated. Unless a concrete understanding of the reduction and oxidation half‐reactions is achieved, an alternative expression of permanganate reactivity of a soil sample (i.e., not mg C kg−1 soil) is needed.
Effect of the Post‐Annealing Temperature on the Interfacial Reaction Between a High TC Superconductor and Topological Insulator
Authors: Lee Woo‐Jung , Hwang Tae‐Ha , Cho Dae‐Hyung , Jeong Kwangsik , Lim Soyoung , Kim Rina , Chung Yong‐Duck
Published: April 2024

This work reports the formation of a heterojunction composed of Tl2Ba2CaCu2O8 (Tl‐2212) and Bi2Se3 as the high critical temperature superconductor and topological insulator, respectively. The Bi2Se3 film is deposited on the Tl‐2212 by a chemical mechanical polishing process. Due to the rough surface of Tl‐2212, the treated Tl‐2212 is then subjected to post‐annealing at various temperatures. This temperature does not affect the formation of the interfacial layer at the heterojunction; however, an improved layered crystal structure of the Bi2Se3 film is observed at 500 °C. The in‐depth profile of the relative atomic concentration indicates the diffusion of Cu and Tl into the Bi2Se3 film with the Ba diffusion being closer to the interfacial layer. At 500 °C, Cu atoms are more actively diffused into the Bi2Se3 film, thus blocking Tl diffusion, and improving the layered crystal structure of the film. The density functional theory calculations reveal that the lowest formation energy of the Cu vacancy is when Bi2Se3 is in contact with Tl‐2212, which results in the diffusion of Cu atoms from Tl‐2212, thus transforming the interstitial Cu atoms into the film. These atoms have an n‐type doping effect and prefer intercalating at a vdW gap deep inside the layered Bi2Se3.