Proteomics in neurodegenerative diseases: Methods for obtaining a closer look at the neuronal proteome.

The analysis of brain function in normal aging and neurodegenerative, psychiatric, and neurological diseases has long been a subject of interest and has historically been investigated through descriptive analysis of macroscopic or microscopic observations. It is now possible to characterize brain cells, such as neurons and glial cells, or even their subcellular components, at the molecular level. This ability enables researchers to more closely examine brain cell specific molecular pathways to elucidate distinct brain functions.

Autoimmune profiling with protein microarrays in clinical applications.

In recent years, knowledge about immune-related disorders has substantially increased, especially in the field of central nervous system (CNS) disorders. Recent innovations in protein-related microarray technology have enabled the analysis of interactions between numerous samples and up to 20,000 targets. Antibodies directed against ion channels, receptors and other synaptic proteins have been identified, and their causative roles in different disorders have been identified.

Nursing considerations in brachytherapy-related erectile dysfunction.

Following definitive local treatment for early-stage prostate cancer, preservation of erectile function has been assumed to be most likely following brachytherapy. However, recent studies have demonstrated that brachytherapy-related erectile dysfunction (ED) is more common than initially reported. The exacerbation of brachytherapy-related ED is closely related to several clinical, treatment, and dosimetric parameters including pre-implant erectile function and radiation dose to the proximal penis.