Publications by authors named "D K Stevens"
Significance: Neuronal dendritic spines are central elements for memory and learning. Their morphology correlates with synaptic strength and is a proxy for function. Classic light microscopy cannot resolve spine morphology well, and techniques with higher resolution (electron microscopy and super-resolution light microscopy) typically do not provide spine data in large fields of view, e.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThe development of highly potent and selective μ opioid receptor (MOR) modulators with favorable drug-like properties has always been a focus in the opioid domain. Our previous efforts led to the discovery of a lead compound designated as NAT, a potent centrally acting MOR modulator. However, the fact that NAT precipitated considerable withdrawal effects at higher doses largely impaired its further development.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFFlower, a highly conserved protein, crucial for endocytosis and cellular fitness, has been implicated in cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) killing efficiency through its role in cytotoxic granule (CG) endocytosis at the immune synapse (IS). This study explores the molecular cues that govern Flower-mediated CG endocytosis by analyzing uptake of Synaptobrevin2, a protein specific to CG in mouse CTL. Using immunogold electron microscopy and total internal fluorescence microscopy, we found that Flower translocates in a stimulus-dependent manner from small vesicles to the IS, thereby ensuring specificity in CG membrane protein recycling.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFEvaluating the Antibacterial Potential of Distinct Size Populations of Stabilized Zinc Nanoparticles.
ACS Appl Mater Interfaces
December 2024
Article Synopsis
- Engineered nanoparticles are tailored for specific uses in environmental, biomedical, and agricultural fields, leveraging their small size and increased surface area.
- In this study, polyvinylpyrrolidone stabilized zinc nanoparticles (ZnNP) were synthesized using water as a solvent to maintain sustainable practices and tested for antibacterial properties against relevant bacteria.
- Results showed that smaller ZnNP populations effectively inhibit bacterial growth, with enhanced antibacterial activity and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production at higher incubation temperatures, suggesting their potential in improving agricultural health.
Purpose: To translate two prominent sleep questionnaires, the Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire 10 (FOSQ-10) and the Sleep Hygiene Index (SHI), into Arabic.
Methods: The translations adhered to the established international criteria and underwent subsequent validation among 130 Arabic-speaking athletes from Jordan and Qatar. The validation process involved comparison against existing Arabic sleep questionnaires to ensure linguistic and cultural appropriateness.