A phage-encoded anti-activator inhibits quorum sensing in Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

The arms race between bacteria and phages has led to the evolution of diverse anti-phage defenses, several of which are controlled by quorum-sensing pathways. In this work, we characterize a quorum-sensing anti-activator protein, Aqs1, found in Pseudomonas phage DMS3. We show that Aqs1 inhibits LasR, the master regulator of quorum sensing, and present the crystal structure of the Aqs1-LasR complex.

Use of a simplified nomogram to individualize digoxin dosing versus standard dosing practices in patients with heart failure.

Study Objectives: To compare the frequency of achieving a therapeutic serum digoxin concentration (SDC), defined as 0.5-0.9 ng/ml, by using a simplified nomogram to individualize digoxin dosing with standard dosing practices in patients with heart failure, and to characterize the relationship between genetic polymorphisms of the ABCB1 gene and SDC.

Delirium in a patient with toxic flecainide plasma concentrations: the role of a pharmacokinetic drug interaction with paroxetine.

Objective: To describe a case of flecainide-induced delirium associated with a pharmacokinetic drug interaction with paroxetine.

Case Summary: A 69-year-old white female presented to the emergency department with a history of confusion and paranoia over the past several days. On admission the patient was taking carvedilol 12 mg twice daily, warfarin 2 mg/day, folic acid 1 mg/day, levothyroxine 100 microg/day, pantoprazole 40 mg/day, paroxetine 40 mg/day, and flecainide 100 mg twice daily.