Normalization of spiroperidol binding in the denervated rat striatum by homologous grafts of substantia nigra

Transplantation of embryonic substantia nigra into the adult rat brain decreases the motor asymmetry that is produced by dopamine receptor supersensitivity after a unilateral lesion of the substantia nigra. The authors report that this effect of transplantation is specific to grafts of substantia nigra. They also report that, in conjunction with the decrease in motor asymmetry, these grafts cause postsynaptic dopaminergic binding sites to return to normal density as measured by tritiated spiroperidol autoradiography. Thus, in animals with brain lesions, grafts of substantia nigra produce a long-term alteration in the functional status of host brain cell receptors that is associated with a reduction in the behavioral deficit.     

Mentoring within the veterinary medical profession: veterinarians' experiences as proteges in mentoring relationships

Veterinary medicine professionals have recognized the importance of enhancing mentoring of students, as recruitment and retention of students have become prominent concerns. The purpose of the present study was to examine the form and degree of mentoring experienced by practicing veterinarians, as well as to seek to understand the factors that influence effective mentoring relationships. Data concerning their own experiences with mentoring relationships were gathered from practicing veterinarians. Results suggest that most practicing veterinarians had mentors and that the most frequent and effective mentors were initial employers, followed by teachers and advisors. Behaviors aimed at career development and socio-emotional support correlated highly with the perceived effectiveness of the relationship. Perceived similarity between the protege and the mentor also predicted effectiveness. These results are discussed as they relate to veterinary education.