Model Reduction on the Wnt Pathway Leads to Biological Adaptation

Complex systems are an unavoidable problem in the field of biology. One of the ways that scientists have tried to overcome this problem is by building mathematical models—manageable representations designed to look at specific physical phenomena. The Wnt Signaling Pathway is a complex system known to regulate cell-to-cell interactions, play a crucial role in Embryonic Development, and has been implicated in the study of cancer. Typically, the Wnt signal is observed through the behavior of a protein called beta-Catenin (β-Catenin). In 2003, Lee et al. built a model of the Wnt pathway which caused β-Catenin to increase over time. However, in 2010, Jensen et al. built a different model of the Wnt pathway which caused β-Catenin to oscillate over time. This project called for model reduction on the Jensen et al. model to identify the phenomenological parameter combinations that determined features of the Wnt oscillations. The method used to reduce the model is called the Manifold Boundary Approximation Method, which is a geometric, parameter-independent method of reducing the model one parameter at a time. Reduction of the model showed that there were 5 variables and 8 parameters which drove the oscillating behavior of the system. After comparing our results to the Lee et al. reduced model of the Wnt pathway done by student Dane Bjork, a minimal model was constructed which predicted a novel class behavior of the Wnt system: biological adaptation

A Virtual ‘experiential expert’ communities of practice in sharing evidence based prevention of novel psychoactive substance (NPS) use: The Portuguese experience

We present findings from a unique virtual community of practice piloted to support a programme of prevention evidence and knowledge sharing among professional prevention practitioners as ‘experiential experts’ around tackling novel psychoactive substances (NPS) use in Portugal. A mixed-methods approach that combined quantitative analysis of interactions and qualitative content analysis of debates about NPS, NPS users, patterns of use and best practices in prevention of this type of drug use was conducted. Results show low and irregular interactions between members of this virtual community, but very rich discussions around sharing of experiences and problematizing practices. We discuss the layers of interaction between members, and the shared learning around policy and practice implications. Such virtual and collaborative work practices are not yet integrated within the drug prevention field where instead individualistic approaches tend to prevail and preclude the sharing of alternative solutions that shape different experiences. Our virtual community of NPS prevention experts provides a flagship for ongoing collaboration between research, generation of evidence informing policy and practice, professional training, support and shared learning. It underscores the need for an innovative and multi-disciplinary approach to sharing perspectives in tackling emerging and harmful drug trends.info:eu-repo/semantics/acceptedVersio

Abuse of sulfonylureas: Is factitious hypoglycemia a cause for concern?

Several prescription and nonprescription drugs are liable for abuse. However, oral hypoglycemic agents are among the most benign and low-risk drugs in terms of abuse liability. This commentary intends to raise awareness regarding the abuse of a particular type of oral hypoglycemic agent, namely sulfonylurea drugs, used to experience mental-altering effects for its euphoric “hypoglycemic rush.” Information is available on discussion fora online where people exchange their experiences. Moreover, several case reports have been published and described the liability for abuse of sulfonylurea drugs. This article intends to shed the light on this phenomenon in light of the available literature, attempting to explain the possible scientific basis for it. In addition, it highlights the need for health professional awareness and vigilance for this form of drug diversion. © 2019, Springer Nature Switzerland AG

Best Practices and Innovations for Managing Codeine Misuse and Dependence.

PURPOSE: Promoting and ensuring safe use of codeine containing medicines remains a public health issue given the rise in reporting of misuse and dependence particularly in countries where available over-the-counter (OTC). The aim of this unique study was to identify best practices in management of opioid abuse and dependence, particularly codeine, and innovations to meet challenges surrounding safe and compliant use, patient awareness-raising, reducing health harms and enhancing successful treatment of dependence. METHODS: A mixed methods approach using three data points was used that included : (1) analysis of data from existing scoping reviews to identify potential areas for innovation (2) interviews with key national stakeholders from public health, pharmaceutical, regulatory, primary care and addiction practice in three distinct regulatory regimes (Ireland, United Kingdom and South Africa); and (3) a circular email request for information on potential innovations to members of the European Medicine's Agency European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCEPP). Data from these three sources were analysed to identify best practices and opportunities for innovation. RESULTS: Best practices and potential innovations were identified under the nine headings: (1) manufacture; (2) product information and public education; (3) responsible prescribing; (4) monitoring and surveillance; (5) dispensing, screening and brief interventions in community pharmacies; (6) safety in the workplace and on the road; (7) internet supply of codeine and online support; (8) treatment of codeine dependence; and (9) learning resources and training for health professionals. CONCLUSIONS: Challenges ensuring availability of codeine containing medicines for legitimate therapeutic use, while minimising misuse, dependence and related health harms warrant consideration of new innovations. Most promising innovative potential lies across the products' retail lifecycle from manufacture to prescriber and community pharmacy practitioner.This article is open to POST-PUBLICATION REVIEW. Registered readers (see "For Readers") may comment by clicking on ABSTRACT on the issue's contents page