Expansion of stereotactic work envelope using transformation matrices and geometric algebra for neurosurgery.

Stereotactic systems have traditionally used Cartesian coordinate combined with linear algebraic mathematical models to navigate the brain. Previously, the development of a novel stereotactic system allowed for improved patient comfort, reduced size, and carried through a simplified interface for surgeons. The system was designed with a work envelope and trajectory range optimized for deep brain stimulation applications only.

Ventral tegmental area deep brain stimulation reverses ethanol-induced dopamine increase in the rat nucleus accumbens.

The neurophysiology of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is complex, but a major contributor to addictive phenotypes is the tendency for drugs of abuse to increase tonic extracellular dopamine (DA) levels in the nucleus accumbens (NAc). Repeated exposure to substances of abuse such as ethanol results in the overstimulation of the mesolimbic pathway, causing an excessive release of DA from the ventral tegmental area (VTA) to target regions such as the NAc. This heightened DA signaling is associated with the reinforcing effects of substances, leading to a strong desire for continued use.

Toward Precise Modeling of Dopamine Release Kinetics: Comparison and Validation of Kinetic Models Using Voltammetry.

Dopamine (DA) is a neurotransmitter present within the animal brain that is responsible for a wide range of physiologic functions, including motivation, reward, and movement control. Changes or dysfunction in the dynamics of DA release are thought to play a pivotal role in regulating various physiological and behavioral processes, as well as leading to neuropsychiatric diseases. Therefore, it is of fundamental interest to neuroscientists to understand and accurately model the kinetics that govern dopaminergic neurotransmission.

Does a single oral administration of amiloride affect spontaneous arterial baroreflex sensitivity and blood pressure variability in healthy young adults?

Preclinical models indicate that amiloride (AMD) reduces baroreflex sensitivity and perturbs homeostatic blood pressure (BP) regulation. However, it remains unclear whether these findings translate to humans. This study investigated whether oral administration of AMD reduces spontaneous cardiac and sympathetic baroreflex sensitivity and perturbs BP regulation in healthy young humans.

Effects of acute hyperoxia on autonomic function and coronary tone in patients with peripheral artery disease.

Numerous studies have shown that oxidative stress plays an important role in peripheral artery disease (PAD). Prior reports suggested autonomic dysfunction in PAD. We hypothesized that responses of the autonomic nervous system and coronary tone would be impaired in patients with PAD during exposure to acute hyperoxia, an oxidative stressor.