Progress in medical defense against nerve agents

Article Abstract:

Nerve agents have been a serious threat for almost 50 years, stimulating efforts to develop medical countermeasures. Recent developments in pharmacologic defenses against nerve agents include methods to bind and inactivate nerve agents. The four best-known agents are organophosphate compounds similar in chemical structure to organophosphate insecticides. They act by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, resulting in acetylcholine excess and disrupting cholinergic neurotransmission. Current therapy includes treatment with atropine and oximes, pretreatment with pyridostigmine bromide, and anticonvulsant therapy. Current research on substances which bind to nerve agents may further reduce the threat of such agents.

Author: Dunn, Michael A., Sidell, Frederick R.
Health aspects, Analysis, Complications and side effects, Biological weapons, Insecticides, Organophosphorus compounds, Organic phosphorus compounds, Nerve gas, Nerve agents

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Neural Mechanisms of Anhedonia in Schizophrenia: A PET Study of Response to Unpleasant and Pleasant Odors

Article Abstract:

An abnormality in the brain may be responsible for the inability of schizophrenic patients to experience pleasure. According to a study of 18 schizophrenic patients and 16 healthy volunteers, the abnormality appears to be centered in the limbic and paralimbic regions, specifically the insular cortex, nucleus accumbens, and parahippocampal gyrus.

Author: Crespo-Facorro, Benedicto, Paradiso, Sergio, Andreasen, Nancy C., O'Leary, Daniel S., Watkins, G. Leonard, Ponto, Laura L. B., Hichwa, Richard D.
Physiological aspects, Anhedonia

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Influential Ideas and Experimental Progress in Schizophrenia Genetics Research

Article Abstract:

Data from the Human Genome Project should help researchers who are seeking the genetic basis for schizophrenia. A century of research has shown that schizophrenia has both a genetic and environmental component.

Author: Sanders, Alan R., Gejman, Pablo V.
Genetic aspects

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Subjects list: Research, Schizophrenia
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