Three Cluster O mycobacteriophages isolated in Philadelphia, PA.

We report here the discovery and characterization of three novel bacteriophages infecting . These siphoviruses were isolated from soil collected in urban areas around Saint Joseph's University in Philadelphia. Mycobacteriphages Idergollasper, FoulBall, and Schuy are assigned to actinobacteriophage cluster O based on gene content similarity, and have prolate capsids typical for this cluster.

The development, implementation, and evaluation of a pre-rotation quiz to improve resident preparedness for an abdominal wall reconstruction surgical rotation.

Introduction: Although hernia repair constitutes a significant portion of surgical training, education around more complex hernia concepts such as abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) or paraesophageal hernia repair may be lacking. We developed and implemented a pre-rotation quiz for residents on an AWR and minimally invasive surgery service. We also investigated the staff and resident perception of resident knowledge and experience of the rotation before and after quiz implementation.

Cases and Controversies in Spine Trauma.

Spinal fractures, spinal cord injuries, and nerve root injuries are commonly encountered entities for spine surgeon. While many cases have well-researched presentations, outcomes, and standards of care there are many patients for which the appropriate clinical management is less clear. Other patients present with injuries with clear treatment preferences that are impossible to implement based on comorbidities or preference.

A Critical Review of Endoscopic Spine Surgery.

This is a critical review of the data supporting current endoscopic surgical techniques for the spine, limitations, economic barriers to adoption, and the future of the field. Endoscopic spine approaches can be applied to all levels of the spine, with many robust trials supporting its clinical outcomes. Although financial limitations with starting an endoscopic program can be justified by its cost effectiveness and positive societal impact, challenges facing its widespread adoption are present and more endoscopic spine programs are needed.

Psilocin, the Psychoactive Metabolite of Psilocybin, Modulates Select Neuroimmune Functions of Microglial Cells in a 5-HT Receptor-Dependent Manner.

Neuroinflammation that is caused by microglia, the main immune cells of the brain, contributes to neurodegenerative diseases. Psychedelics, including psilocybin and lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), possess certain anti-inflammatory properties and, therefore, should be considered as drug candidates for treating neuroinflammatory pathologies. When ingested, psilocybin is rapidly dephosphorylated to yield psilocin, which crosses the blood-brain barrier and exerts psychotropic activity by interacting with the 5-hydroxytryptamine 2A receptors (5-HTRs) on neurons.