Point mutations confer loss of ATP-induced human P2X7 receptor function

AbstractResidues considered essential for ATP binding to the human P2X7 receptor (hP2X7R) were investigated. HEK293 cells or Xenopus oocytes were transfected with wild-type or site-directed mutants of hP2X7R constructs and channel/pore activity measured in the presence of ATP or 2′,3′-O-(4-benzoylbenzoyl)-ATP (BzATP). Barium uptake and ethidium influx into HEK293 cells were abolished in cells expressing K193A and K311A mutants, and were partially reduced in cells expressing mutant P210A. K193A and K311A mutations also completely abolished responses to ATP and BzATP in Xenopus oocytes as measured by electrophysiology. These results indicate that K193 and K311 are essential residues in ATP binding in the hP2X7R

Post-Socialist Self-Censorship:Russia, Hungary and Latvia

This article argues that today in Central and Eastern Europe self-censorship, journalistic freedom and autonomy are just as severely affected by economic constraints, oligarchic influences and new authoritarianism as they are by their Communist pasts. Either way, journalists know exactly what to report, what to omit and how to advance their careers. This is reminiscent of adekvatnost’; a distinct strategy employed by Russian journalists, who regard this skill as an expression of professionalism. It implies having a ‘feel for the game’ and the ‘right instinct’, which allows them to enjoy a certain level of freedom in their work and express their creativity. The authors’ interviews with Latvian and Hungarian journalists, editors and producers examined the extent to which adekvatnost’ might be a feature of journalism beyond Russia, in particular when a media system faces rising populism and authoritarianism, paired with oligarch-dominated ownership. As such, knowledge gained about journalistic practices in the countries under investigation might also be useful in understanding media development beyond the post-Communist space, including Western Europe

A report from the pediatric formulations task force: Perspectives on the state of child-friendly oral dosage forms

Despite the fact that a significant percentage of the population is unable to swallow tablets and capsules, these dosage forms continue to be the default standard. These oral formulations fail many patients, especially children, because of large tablet or capsule size, poor palatability, and lack of correct dosage strength. The clinical result is often lack of adherence and therapeutic failure. The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists formed a Pediatric Formulations Task Force, consisting of members with various areas of expertise including pediatrics, formulation development, clinical pharmacology, and regulatory science, in order to identify pediatric, manufacturing, and regulatory issues and areas of needed research and regulatory guidance. Dosage form and palatability standards for all pediatric ages, relative bioavailability requirements, and small batch manufacturing capabilities and creation of a viable economic model were identified as particular needs. This assessment is considered an important first step for a task force seeking creative approaches to providing more appropriate oral formulations for children. © 2013 American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists

Endowed chairs in accounting worldwide

Colleges and universities worldwide have benefited from the growth of the stock market of the 1990s. Many universities have seen marginal increases in their endowments. Accounting programmes have been among the beneficiaries of endowment growth and a concurrent increase in the number of endowed chairs. The primary purposes of this study are to: (1) examine the nature and status of endowments in accounting programmes worldwide; (2) determine objectives, criteria, benefits, and challenges of establishing endowed chairs; and (3) establish benchmarks for universities worldwide for assessing the credentials and qualifications necessary to obtain endowed chair positions. Findings indicate that: (1) the primary purpose of the endowed chair is to enhance the reputation and provide better recognition for the college or university; (2) research is considered the most important objective; (3) although excellence in teaching is considered important, this is not always reflected in the time spent on professional activities; (4) professional and college service is considered an important part of the duties of the chaired professor; and (5) the amount of time spent on teaching activities is less than that spent on research and service. The results of this study should help accounting programmes worldwide in both assessing existing endowed chairs and in establishing new chaired professorships.endowed chairs, colleges and universities, accounting education,

Surveillance of Rodent Pests for SARS-CoV-2 and Other Coronaviruses, Hong Kong

We report surveillance conducted in 217 pestiferous rodents in Hong Kong for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). We did not detect SARS-CoV-2 RNA but identified 1 seropositive rodent, suggesting exposure to a virus antigenically similar to SARS-CoV-2. Potential exposure of urban rodents to SARS-CoV-2 cannot be ruled out