Spironolactone Depletes the XPB Protein and Inhibits DNA Damage Responses in UVB-Irradiated Human Skin.

UVB wavelengths of light induce the formation of photoproducts in genomic DNA that are potentially mutagenic and detrimental to epidermal cell function. The mineralocorticoid and androgen receptor antagonist spironolactone (SP) was recently identified as an inhibitor of UV photoproduct removal in human cancer cells in vitro via its ability to promote the rapid proteolytic degradation of the DNA repair protein XPB. Using normal human keratinocytes in vitro and skin explants ex vivo, we found that SP rapidly depleted XPB protein in both systems and abrogated two major responses to UVB-induced DNA damage, including the removal of UV photoproducts from genomic DNA and the activation of ATR/ATM DNA damage kinase signaling.

Acute Shoulder Monoarthritis in a Patient With Acute Myelomonocytic Leukemia With Novel Translocation t(5;13).

We present the case of a patient with acute myelomonocytic leukemia with trisomy 8 and novel translocation t(5;13). In addition to acute leukemia she had debilitating left shoulder arthritis due to granulocytic sarcoma formation in the joint space. Her shoulder pain did not improve during induction chemotherapy but she experienced rapid relief of symptoms with use of local radiation.

Use of alternatives to air-fluidized support surfaces in the care of complex wounds in postflap and postgraft patients.

Air-fluidized support surface therapy has many drawbacks, such as dehydration, in an already difficult recovery for those wound patients who have undergone flap and graft surgery. In addition, patient care and handling are also problematic. Patients complain of discomfort, and the instability of the surface interferes with patient stability in side lying and semi-Fowler's positions.

Wound closure and the reconstructive ladder in plastic surgery.

Wound closure requires deep understanding of wound physiology, anatomy, and the healing phase of the wound. The basic principles of wound closure, diabetes control, normal nutrition status, infection control, mechanical stress avoidance, and nursing care are all important elements in achieving healing of acute and chronic wounds. This goal is achievable only through the interdisciplinary approach to wound healing.

A quick way to identify compatible drugs.

This RN developed a way for staff nurses in her hospital to determine which commonly used drugs could be administered safely in combination with each other. Here's how she did it, and how you can create a similar brochure specific to your unit.