Characterization and subcellular localization of the dystrophin-protein 71 (Dp71) from brain

In the present study, monoclonal antibodies raised against the C-terminal domain of dystrophin were used to identify and characterize Dp71 from the central nervous system. It was observed that the expression of Dp71 gradually increases from the embryo stage until the adult. Subcellular distribution analysis indicates that Dp71 is mainly recovered in synaptic plasma membranes, microsomes and at a lesser extent in synaptic vesicles and mitochondria. The amino acid composition and N-terminal sequence of bovine brain Dp71 were determined. Moreover, we found that this protein is glycosylated.     

Investigation of the Drug–Drug Interaction Between α-Lipoic Acid and Valproate via Mitochondrial β-oxidation

Purpose  To investigate the potential drug–drug interaction (DDI) between lipoic acid (LA) and valproate (VA) via the mitochondrial β-oxidation pathway in rats. Methods   In vitro mitochondrial assays were performed to compare the biotransformation of VA to valproyl-CoA (VA-CoA), in the absence and presence of LA. In vitro microsomal and protein binding assays were performed to elucidate their potential DDI at the microsomal metabolism and distribution levels. A pharmacokinetic study was conducted in Lister Hooded rats to ascertain the in vivo DDI between LA and VA. Results  LA was shown to decrease significantly (p < 0.05) the in vitro formation of VA-CoA in a concentration-dependent manner. Our in vitro assay results confirmed that there was minimal interaction between LA and VA in microsomal metabolism and protein binding. Based on the pharmacokinetic data, the absolute bioavailability of VA was determined to be 1.3 in the presence of LA. Conclusions  Our study demonstrated for the first time that there is a potential DDI between LA and VA at the mitochondrial β-oxidation level. While further clinical study is essential, our preliminary finding suggested that medical practitioners need to be prudent when managing epileptic patients who are co-administered with both VA and LA.     

Group therapy in the treatment of diabetes

The psychological burden imposed by diabetes is large but is often ignored by health care professionals who concentrate on its technical aspects. In this article we review the need for psychosocial support in the treatment of diabetes. Group psychotherapy, although most widely used in psychiatry, was in fact started by a physician almost 80 yr ago and has been used as an adjunct to the management of many medical conditions. Limited experience of group psychotherapy among diabetic patients has given encouraging results. Issues remain, however, as to which groups of patients might benefit most, who should act as group leader, and how one can best assess outcome.     

The Use of Audio and Videotape Recordings of Therapy Sessions in the Supervision and Practice of Dynamic Psychotherapy

SUMMARY. The use of audio and videotape recordings in supervision of dynamic psychotherapy is controversial. Recordings give direct, factually correct access to the therapy session which cannot be matched by the common, indirect method in supervision of recollection. The arguments for and against taping are presented and the conclusion is reached that tapes are an essential aid in supervision. They facilitate the close examination of process and technique. Discrepancies between the recollected account and the record are highlighted, not with the purpose of showing up the deficiencies of the therapist but as phenomena that have meaning and significance. How the therapist deals with transference and emotionally-charged issues can be seen and discussed. Perhaps their greatest value is in private review by the therapist. The meaning of being taped needs to be carefully considered and monitored by the therapist. Taping should be used selectively and sensitively. Careful attention needs to be given to consent, confidentiality and the security of the tapes. Advice is given on how to make recordings. Tapes may also be used in teaching, research and clinical audit.     

Towards a conceptual framework of psychotherapy: a personal view.

A conceptual view of psychotherapy is put forward for discussion and debate. The view is a personal one based upon experience of life and the practice of psychotherapy over a 10 year period. Harmony between the therapist's personality, the process of therapy and the nature of good human relationships is important. Therapy is seen as a practical discipline and a creative art in which the focus should be upon the patient's existence now and what it could be tomorrow.