Publications by authors named "Brandon Black"

In a continuing effort to understand reaction mechanisms of terpene synthases catalyzing initial anti-Markovnikov cyclization reactions, we solved the X-ray crystal structure of (+)-caryolan-1-ol synthase (CS) from , with and without an inactive analog of the farnesyl diphosphate (FPP) substrate, 2-fluorofarnesyl diphosphate (2FFPP), bound in the active site of the enzyme. The CS-2FFPP structure was solved to 2.65 Å resolution and showed the ligand in an elongated orientation, incapable of undergoing the initial cyclization event to form a C1-C11 bond.

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In a continuing effort to understand reaction mechanisms of terpene synthases catalyzing initial anti-Markovnikov cyclization reactions, we solved the X-ray crystal structure of (+)-caryolan-1-ol synthase (CS) from , with and without an inactive analog of the FPP substrate, 2-fluorofarnesyl diphosphate (2FFPP), bound in the active site of the enzyme. The CS-2FFPP complex was solved to 2.65 Å resolution and showed the ligand in a linear, elongated orientation, incapable of undergoing the initial cyclization event to form a bond between carbons C1 and C11.

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Overexpression of vesicular stomatitis virus G protein (VSV-G) elevates the secretion of EVs known as gectosomes, which contain VSV-G. Such vesicles can be engineered to deliver therapeutic macromolecules. We investigated viral glycoproteins from several viruses for their potential in gectosome production and intracellular cargo delivery.

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Jumbo acetabular cups are commonly used in revision total hip arthroplasty (THA). A straightforward reaming technique is used which is similar to primary THA. However, jumbo cups may also be associated with hip center elevation, limited screw fixation options, and anterior soft tissue impingement.

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Background: Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears have been implicated in the development of osteoarthritis. Limited data exist on longitudinal follow-up of isolated ACL injury.

Hypotheses: All isolated ACL tears are associated with some degree of cartilage injury that will deteriorate over time.

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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) using cartilage-sensitive sequences has been shown to be an accurate, noninvasive method by which to detect articular cartilage injury and early degeneration. These are important management considerations in an athletic population. The advantages of MRI include the lack of ionizing radiation, direct multiplanar capabilities and high-contrast resolution of articular soft tissue structures.

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Standardized magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) pulse sequences provide an accurate, reproducible assessment of cartilage morphology. Three-dimensional (3D) modeling techniques enable semiautomated models of the joint surface and thickness measurements, which may eventually prove essential in templating before partial or total joint resurfacing as well as focal cartilage repair. Quantitative MRI techniques, such as T2 mapping, T1 rho, and delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage (dGEMRIC), provide noninvasive information about cartilage and repair tissue biochemistry.

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Article Synopsis
  • Intracranial abscesses are serious medical emergencies caused by pus buildup in the brain, and delays in diagnosis can lead to severe health issues or death.
  • Imaging techniques like computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are crucial for diagnosing these abscesses, but their typical appearance can be confused with conditions like necrotic tumors.
  • This paper explores recent advancements in CT and MRI technology for detecting brain abscesses, focusing on techniques such as CT perfusion and various MRI sequences.
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