Your browser doesn't support javascript.
loading
Mostrar: 20 | 50 | 100
Resultados 1 - 20 de 446
Filtrar
1.
Mediators Inflamm ; 2020: 6245798, 2020.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32189995

RESUMO

Rheumatoid arthritis is characterised by a chronic inflammatory response resulting in destruction of the joint and significant pain. Although a range of treatments are available to control disease activity in RA, bone destruction and joint pain exist despite suppression of inflammation. This study is aimed at assessing the effects of parthenolide (PAR) on paw inflammation, bone destruction, and pain-like behaviour in a mild collagen antibody-induced arthritis (CAIA) mouse model. CAIA was induced in BALB/c mice and treated daily with 1 mg/kg or 4 mg/kg PAR. Clinical paw inflammation was scored daily, and mechanical hypersensitivity was assessed on alternate days. At end point, bone volume and swelling in the paws were assessed using micro-CT. Paw tissue sections were assessed for inflammation and pre-/osteoclast-like cells. The lumbar spinal cord and the periaqueductal grey (PAG) and rostral ventromedulla (RVM) regions of the brain were stained for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and ionised calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1) to assess for glial reactivity. Paw scores increased in CAIA mice from days 5-10 and were reduced with 1 mg/kg and 4 mg/kg PAR on days 8-10. Osteoclast-like cells on the bone surface of the radiocarpal joint and within the soft tissue of the hind paw were significantly lower following PAR treatment (p < 0.005). GFAP- and IBA1-positive cells in the PAG and RVM were significantly lower following treatment with 1 mg/kg (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0004, respectively) and 4 mg/kg PAR (p < 0.0001 and p = 0.001, respectively). In the lumbar spinal cord, IBA1-positive cells were significantly lower in CAIA mice treated with 4 mg/kg PAR (p = 0.001). The findings indicate a suppressive effect of both low- and moderate-dose PAR on paw inflammation, osteoclast presence, and glial cell reactivity in a mild CAIA mouse model.


Assuntos
Artrite Experimental/tratamento farmacológico , Inflamação/tratamento farmacológico , Sesquiterpenos/uso terapêutico , Animais , Artrite Experimental/imunologia , Artrite Experimental/metabolismo , Artrite Reumatoide/tratamento farmacológico , Artrite Reumatoide/imunologia , Artrite Reumatoide/metabolismo , Modelos Animais de Doenças , Feminino , Inflamação/imunologia , Inflamação/metabolismo , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos BALB C , Neuroglia/efeitos dos fármacos , Neuroglia/metabolismo , Microtomografia por Raio-X
2.
Eur Spine J ; 29(5): 1087-1091, 2020 05.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31901999

RESUMO

PURPOSE: CT myelography has been used since 1976 to diagnose neural compression in the axial skeleton. With the advent of routine MRI, its role in accurately diagnosing neural compression has been questioned as its normal appearances are not defined in the study. In this study, we examine a series of CT myelograms to define the normal appearances of the neural elements of the spine. METHODS: The CT myelograms of patients with unilateral symptoms were examined by four independent physicians. The lateral extent of contrast was examined and recorded. Concordance between the recorded extents was assessed using kappa scores. RESULTS: Thirty-six scans were reviewed. Kappa analysis shows that there is a fair agreement in the lateral extent of contrast at L1, L3 and L4. At L2 and L5, agreement is slight. CONCLUSION: The interpretation of CT myelography shows significant interobserver variability. As a result, the usefulness of this diagnostic tool can be questioned, and if misinterpreted, it could lead to questionable diagnoses and inadvertently erroneous management if used in isolation. These slides can be retrieved under Electronic Supplementary Material.


Assuntos
Mielografia , Estenose Espinal , Humanos , Vértebras Lombares , Imageamento por Ressonância Magnética , Tomografia Computadorizada por Raios X
3.
Res Nurs Health ; 42(4): 284-295, 2019 08.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-31087366

RESUMO

Experts and professional organizations in the U.S. have issued recommendations that health care providers (HCPs) should screen women for intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence (SV). Despite the high rates of IPV and SV experienced by female college students, investigators have found that providers are not screening for IPV and SV in college health centers. In this study, a cross-sectional survey design was utilized to: (a) examine college HCPs' reports of IPV/SV screening behaviors and (b) identify the individual-level and organization-level structure and process characteristics that promote or inhibit IPV/SV screening. A total of 773 college HCPs (physicians, nurse practitioners, and registered nurses) were invited to participate in the study using two separate sampling frames. The final sample included 210 college HCPs. Providers reported low rates of IPV/SV screening (median = 20%). Screening rates varied by provider type with nurse practitioners reporting the highest screening rates. Urban location was associated with a three and one-half times greater likelihood of IPV/SV screening. Use of an electronic health record that included a prompt to screen was associated with a three-fold increase in the likelihood that HCPs would screen for IPV/SV. Further study is needed to better understand how organizational factors influence providers' screening behaviors in college health centers and how these influences are mediated. Future studies should include larger and more diverse samples of colleges and examine geographical variations in screening practices.


Assuntos
Pessoal de Saúde/psicologia , Violência por Parceiro Íntimo/estatística & dados numéricos , Programas de Rastreamento/organização & administração , Programas de Rastreamento/psicologia , Delitos Sexuais/estatística & dados numéricos , Estudantes/estatística & dados numéricos , Universidades/estatística & dados numéricos , Adulto , Atitude do Pessoal de Saúde , Estudos Transversais , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Inquéritos e Questionários , Estados Unidos , Adulto Jovem
4.
Appl Nurs Res ; 39: 217-219, 2018 02.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-29422162

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: Female college students experience higher rates of intimate partner violence (IPV) and sexual violence (SV) compared to men of all ages, older women and young women who are not attending college. Experts and medical organizations have issued recommendations that health care providers should routinely screen women for IPV and SV. However, most female college students report they are not being screened for IPV and SV at college health centers. AIM: This exploratory study sought to examine the IPV and SV screening practices of college health care providers and identify individual and organizational influences using a cross-sectional, quantitative survey design. METHODS: Sixty-four health care providers (physicians, nurse practitioners and registered nurses) from five colleges and universities in the northeastern U.S. were invited to participate in an anonymous, web-based survey about their IPV/SV-related screening practices and beliefs, and organizational characteristics of their college health centers. RESULTS: Twenty-six health care providers completed surveys (56% response rate). The median reported IPV/SV screening rate was 15%. More IPV/SV screening was reported by nurse practitioners, providers at state colleges, and by those in health centers that prioritized IPV/SV screening and had greater organizational capacity for change. CONCLUSIONS: College health centers represent unique, yet often missed, opportunities to screen for IPV/SV in a high-risk population. Provider- and organization-level influences should be incorporated into future interventions to improve IPV/SV screening in college health centers. Future studies with larger numbers of colleges and providers are needed to better understand organizational influences and identify mediators and moderators of effects.


Assuntos
Pessoal de Saúde/estatística & dados numéricos , Violência por Parceiro Íntimo/estatística & dados numéricos , Programas de Rastreamento/estatística & dados numéricos , Delitos Sexuais/estatística & dados numéricos , Serviços de Saúde para Estudantes/estatística & dados numéricos , Adulto , Estudos Transversais , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , New England , Reprodutibilidade dos Testes , Inquéritos e Questionários , Adulto Jovem
5.
Eur J Neurol ; 24(1): 73-81, 2017 01.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-27647704

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: Adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia presents with a number of phenotypes. Reported prevalence rates vary considerably; well-characterized cohorts are important to our understanding of this disorder. AIM: To perform a nationwide epidemiological study of adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia in the Republic of Ireland. METHODS: Patients with adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia were recruited from multiple sources. Diagnosis was based on assessment by a neurologist with an expertise in movement disorders. When consent was obtained, a number of clinical features including family history were assessed. RESULTS: On the prevalence date there were 592 individuals in Ireland with adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia, a point prevalence of 17.8 per 100 000 (95% confidence interval 16.4-19.2). Phenotype numbers were cervical dystonia 410 (69.2%), blepharospasm 102 (17.2%), focal hand dystonia 39 (6.6%), spasmodic dysphonia 18 (3.0%), musician's dystonia 17 (2.9%) and oromandibular dystonia six (1.0%). Sixty-two (16.5%) of 375 consenting index cases had a relative with clinically confirmed adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia (18 multiplex and 24 duplex families). Marked variations in the proportions of patients with tremor, segmental spread, sensory tricks, pain and psychiatric symptoms by phenotype were documented. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of adult onset idiopathic isolated focal dystonia in Ireland is higher than that recorded in many similar service-based epidemiological studies but is still likely to be an underestimate. The low proportion of individuals with blepharospasm may reflect reduced environmental exposure to sunlight in Ireland. This study will serve as a resource for international comparative studies of environmental and genetic factors in the pathogenesis of the disorder.


Assuntos
Distúrbios Distônicos/epidemiologia , Distúrbios Distônicos/genética , Adulto , Fatores Etários , Idade de Início , Idoso , Idoso de 80 Anos ou mais , Blefarospasmo/epidemiologia , Blefarospasmo/etiologia , Progressão da Doença , Distúrbios Distônicos/complicações , Meio Ambiente , Feminino , Humanos , Irlanda/epidemiologia , Masculino , Transtornos Mentais/etiologia , Transtornos Mentais/psicologia , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Prevalência , Fatores Sexuais , Luz Solar , Tremor/etiologia , Tremor/fisiopatologia , Adulto Jovem
6.
Mol Psychiatry ; 20(12): 1525-37, 2015 Dec.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25644383

RESUMO

The initial reinforcing properties of drugs of abuse, such as cocaine, are largely attributed to their ability to activate the mesolimbic dopamine system. Resulting increases in extracellular dopamine in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) are traditionally thought to result from cocaine's ability to block dopamine transporters (DATs). Here we demonstrate that cocaine also interacts with the immunosurveillance receptor complex, Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), on microglial cells to initiate central innate immune signaling. Disruption of cocaine signaling at TLR4 suppresses cocaine-induced extracellular dopamine in the NAc, as well as cocaine conditioned place preference and cocaine self-administration. These results provide a novel understanding of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying cocaine reward/reinforcement that includes a critical role for central immune signaling, and offer a new target for medication development for cocaine abuse treatment.


Assuntos
Cocaína/farmacologia , Transdução de Sinais/efeitos dos fármacos , Receptor 4 Toll-Like/metabolismo , Animais , Células Cultivadas , Cocaína/administração & dosagem , Proteínas da Membrana Plasmática de Transporte de Dopamina/metabolismo , Interleucina-1beta/genética , Masculino , Camundongos , Camundongos Endogâmicos C3H , Mutação , Naloxona/farmacologia , Antagonistas de Entorpecentes/farmacologia , Neuroglia/efeitos dos fármacos , Neuroglia/metabolismo , RNA Mensageiro/metabolismo , Ratos , Ratos Sprague-Dawley , Reforço Psicológico , Recompensa , Autoadministração , Receptor 4 Toll-Like/genética , Área Tegmentar Ventral/efeitos dos fármacos , Área Tegmentar Ventral/metabolismo
7.
Mult Scler ; 22(4): 533-43, 2016 Apr.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26362898

RESUMO

OBJECTIVES: To explore long-term effects of treatment and prognostic relevance of variables assessed at baseline and during the European secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) trial of interferon beta 1b (IFNB-1b). METHODS: We assessed 362 patients (60% female; median age 41 years; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS): 5.5; 51% randomized to IFNB-1b) for their EDSS and treatment history after 10 years. Non-parametric analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) and multivariate linear regression models were applied. RESULTS: Median EDSS was 6.0 at the end of the randomized controlled trial (RCT), in the IFNB-1b and placebo groups, and 7.0 in long-term follow-up patients (those receiving IFNB-1b in the RCT were 6.5 and those receiving placebo in the RCT were 7.0; p = 0.086). 24 patients (6.6%) were deceased. The EDSS at baseline and the EDSS change during the RCT were the most important predictors of the EDSS 10 years later (partial R(2): 0.47). The ability to predict changes in EDSS 10 years after the RCT was limited (R(2): 0.12). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures remained in the predictive models, but explained < 5% of the variability. CONCLUSIONS: The results from this analysis did not provide convincing evidence to support a favorable long-term outcome in those patients allocated IFNB-1b during the RCT, in our SPMS cohort. The progressive stage of the disease remains largely unpredictable by clinical and conventional MRI measures, so better prognostic markers are needed.


Assuntos
Fatores Imunológicos/uso terapêutico , Interferon beta-1b/uso terapêutico , Esclerose Múltipla Crônica Progressiva/tratamento farmacológico , Adulto , Avaliação da Deficiência , Progressão da Doença , Método Duplo-Cego , Europa (Continente) , Feminino , Seguimentos , Humanos , Fatores Imunológicos/efeitos adversos , Interferon beta-1b/efeitos adversos , Modelos Lineares , Imageamento por Ressonância Magnética , Masculino , Esclerose Múltipla Crônica Progressiva/diagnóstico , Esclerose Múltipla Crônica Progressiva/mortalidade , Análise Multivariada , Fatores de Tempo , Resultado do Tratamento
8.
Horm Metab Res ; 48(1): 27-34, 2016 Jan.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25702786

RESUMO

The main aim of the study was to determine the influence of genetic factors on the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D response to vitamin D supplementation. The main outcome measure was an increase in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D after vitamin D supplementation. The patients are part of a randomized controlled trial in individuals with prediabetes assigned to 20 000 IU of vitamin D3 per week or placebo for 12 months. A total of 484 subjects were included in the analyses and genotyped for single nucleotide polymorphisms in the DBP, DHCR7, CYP2R1, and CYP24A1 genes. Single nucleotide polymorphisms from all 4 selected genes were significantly related to baseline serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations with differences between major and minor homozygote genotypes ranging from 4.4 to 19.2 nmol/l. In the subjects given vitamin D, those with genotypes with the highest baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration also had the highest 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration after 12 months, and the increase (delta) in 25-hydroxyvitamin D was significantly related to 3 of the single nucleotide polymorphisms. The increase in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D was also higher in lean vs. obese subjects, and higher in those with low baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations. When combining these 3 factors in a linear regression model, the predicted (and observed) difference in 25-hydroxyvitamin D increase between high and low responders to the supplementation was approximately 60 nmol/l. In conclusion, due to genetic, body mass, and baseline 25-hydroxyvitamin D differences, there are huge individual variations in the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D response to vitamin D supplementation that could be of clinical importance.


Assuntos
Índice de Massa Corporal , Suplementos Nutricionais , Genótipo , Vitamina D/análogos & derivados , Fatores Etários , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Placebos , Polimorfismo de Nucleotídeo Único/genética , Caracteres Sexuais , Vitamina D/sangue
9.
Eur J Neurol ; 23(4): 772-9, 2016 Apr.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26826067

RESUMO

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Dystonia is difficult to recognize due to its large phenomenological complexity. Thus, the use of experts in dystonia is essential for better recognition and management of dystonia syndromes (DS). Our aim was to document managing strategies, facilities and expertise available in various European countries in order to identify which measures should be implemented to improve the management of DS. METHODS: A survey was conducted, funded by the Cooperation in Science and Technology, via the management committee of the European network for the study of DS, which is formed from representatives of the 24 countries involved. RESULTS: Lack of specific training in dystonia by general neurologists, general practitioners as well as other allied health professionals was universal in all countries surveyed. Genetic testing for rare dystonia mutations is not readily available in a significant number of countries and neurophysiological studies are difficult to perform due to a lack of experts in this field of movement disorders. Tetrabenazine is only readily available for treatment of dystonia in half of the surveyed countries. Deep brain stimulation is available in three-quarters of the countries, but other surgical procedures are only available in one-quarter of countries. CONCLUSIONS: Internationally, collaboration in training, advanced diagnosis, treatment and research of DS and, locally, in each country the creation of multidisciplinary teams for the management of dystonia patients could provide the basis for improving all aspects of dystonia management across Europe.


Assuntos
Distúrbios Distônicos/terapia , União Europeia/estatística & dados numéricos , Clínicos Gerais/estatística & dados numéricos , Neurologia/estatística & dados numéricos , Distúrbios Distônicos/tratamento farmacológico , Clínicos Gerais/educação , Pesquisas sobre Atenção à Saúde/estatística & dados numéricos , Humanos , Neurologia/educação
10.
J Nurs Scholarsh ; 48(2): 210-8, 2016 Mar.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26836035

RESUMO

PURPOSE: By 2050, the number of international migrants is expected to double from 214 million people. Of these, Asian immigrants are projected to comprise the largest foreign-born population in the United States by the year 2065. Asian American immigrants experience numerous health disparities, but remain under-represented in health research. The purpose of this article is to examine the experiences and lessons learned in applying community-based participatory research (CBPR) principles to access and recruit a sample of Asian American research participants. APPROACH: This article reviews unique barriers to research participation among Asian Americans, describes the principles of CBPR, and provides examples of how these principles were employed to bridge recruitment challenges within a qualitative study. FINDINGS AND CONCLUSIONS: CBPR facilitated greater research participation among a group of immigrant Asian Americans. Researchers must be additionally mindful of the importance of building trusting relationships with their community partners, understanding the significance of shared experiences, considering fears around immigration status, and considering ongoing challenges in identifying and reaching hidden populations. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Clinicians and researchers can employ CBPR principles to guide their work with Asian immigrant communities and other under-represented groups to facilitate access to the population, improve participant recruitment, and foster engagement and collaboration.


Assuntos
Asiático/psicologia , Pesquisa Participativa Baseada na Comunidade/organização & administração , Emigrantes e Imigrantes/psicologia , Seleção de Pacientes , Asiático/estatística & dados numéricos , Emigrantes e Imigrantes/estatística & dados numéricos , Humanos , Pesquisa Qualitativa , Confiança/psicologia , Imigrantes Indocumentados/psicologia , Imigrantes Indocumentados/estatística & dados numéricos , Estados Unidos
11.
J Fam Issues ; 37(2): 155-176, 2016 Jan 01.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26900198

RESUMO

Family relationships influence children's beliefs and behaviors. This work examined qualities associated with communication about alcohol among 176 mothers and the influence of this communication on daughters' alcohol use. Path analyses by maternal HIV status indicated significant differences. Relationship satisfaction was associated with self-efficacy for both HIV-positive (ß = 0.545, p < .001) and HIV-negative (ß = 0.557, p < .001) mothers. Maternal self-efficacy was associated with communication for both HIV-positive (ß = 0.364, p < .01) and HIV-negative (ß = 0.310, p < .05) mothers; maternal attitudes toward alcohol use were associated with communication among HIV-negative mothers (ß = 0.20, p < .05). Relationship satisfaction was indirectly related to daughter's alcohol use in HIV-positive dyads (ß = 0.153, p < .05). In families with interfamilial and environmental stressors, investing in the mother-daughter relationship, in part by discussing issues related to alcohol use, is protective in nature.

12.
Eur J Neurol ; 22(3): 570-7, 2015 Mar.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-25511792

RESUMO

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Impaired ambulation is a prominent disabling symptom of multiple sclerosis and can lead to reduced quality of life. Whether natalizumab, a monoclonal antibody shown to reduce disease activity in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis, could impact ambulation performance was examined. METHODS: A prospective open-label study, TIMER, was conducted in natalizumab-naive patients (n = 215). The timed 25-foot walk (T25FW) and timed 100-m walk (T100MW) were assessed at baseline and at weeks 24 and 48 of natalizumab therapy, together with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores. The effects of natalizumab on T25FW performance were also examined in a retrospective analysis of natalizumab-treated patients (n = 627) and placebo control patients (n = 315) from the AFFIRM study. RESULTS: In TIMER, a significant increase from baseline in T25FW speed was seen at week 24 (P = 0.0074) and in T100MW speed at weeks 24 and 48 (both P < 0.001). A greater proportion of patients showed clinically meaningful increases (≥20%) in walking speed on the T100MW (25%) than on the T25FW (13%) at week 48 (P = 0.032). In AFFIRM, natalizumab increased the proportion of patients with ≥20% confirmed improvement in T25FW speed at year 2 by 78% versus placebo (P = 0.0133). CONCLUSIONS: Natalizumab increased walking speed in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. The T100MW may be more sensitive to changes in ambulation capacity than the T25FW, and both tests appear to detect clinically meaningful improvements in ambulatory function.


Assuntos
Fatores Imunológicos/farmacologia , Esclerose Múltipla Recidivante-Remitente/tratamento farmacológico , Natalizumab/farmacologia , Avaliação de Resultados em Cuidados de Saúde , Caminhada/fisiologia , Adulto , Teste de Esforço , Feminino , Humanos , Fatores Imunológicos/administração & dosagem , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Limitação da Mobilidade , Natalizumab/administração & dosagem , Estudos Prospectivos , Estudos Retrospectivos , Índice de Gravidade de Doença
14.
J Med Entomol ; 52(6): 1260-9, 2015 Nov.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26336271

RESUMO

Although Pennsylvania has recently reported the greatest number of Lyme disease cases in the United States, with the largest increase for PA occurring in its western region, the population biology of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis Say) has not been adequately characterized in western PA. We studied the seasonal activity of host-seeking I. scapularis larvae, nymphs, and adults in mid-western PA over the course of a year, including a severe winter, and determined their absolute densities and collection efficiencies using replicated mark-release-recapture or removal methods. Our results are compared to those from similar studies conducted in the highly Lyme disease endemic Hudson Valley region of southeastern New York State. The seasonal activity of I. scapularis was intermediate between patterns observed in the coastal northeastern and upper Midwestern United States. Only one peak of larval activity was observed, which was later than the major peak in the Midwest, but earlier than in the northeast. Seasonal synchrony of larvae and nymphs was similar to the northeast, but the activity peaks were much closer together, although not completely overlapping as in the Midwest. Pre- and postwinter relative densities of questing adult I. scapularis were not significantly different from one another. The absolute densities and collection efficiencies of larvae, nymphs, and adults were comparable to results from classic research conducted at the Louis Calder Center in Westchester County, NY. We conclude that the population biology of I. scapularis in mid-western PA is similar to southeastern NYS contributing to a high acarological Lyme disease risk.


Assuntos
Ixodes , Animais , Geografia , Pennsylvania , Densidade Demográfica , Estações do Ano
15.
J Med Entomol ; 52(4): 693-8, 2015 Jul.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26335476

RESUMO

The etiological agents responsible for Lyme disease (Borrelia burgdorferi), human granulocytic anaplasmosis (Anaplasma phagocytophilum), and babesiosis (Babesia microti) are primarily transmitted by the blacklegged tick, Ixodes scapularis Say. Despite Pennsylvania having in recent years reported the highest number of Lyme disease cases in the United States, relatively little is known regarding the geographic distribution of the vector and its pathogens in the state. Previous attempts at climate-based predictive modeling of I. scapularis occurrence have not coincided with the high human incidence rates in parts of the state. To elucidate the distribution and pathogen infection rates of I. scapularis, we collected and tested 1,855 adult ticks statewide from 2012 to 2014. The presence of I. scapularis and B. burgdorferi was confirmed from all 67 Pennsylvania counties. Analyses were performed on 1,363 ticks collected in the fall of 2013 to avoid temporal bias across years. Infection rates were highest for B. burgdorferi (47.4%), followed by Ba. microti (3.5%) and A. phagocytophilum (3.3%). Coinfections included B. burgdorferi+Ba. microti (2.0%), B. burgdorferi+A. phagocytophilum (1.5%) and one tick positive for A. phagocytophilum+Ba. microti. Infection rates for B. burgdorferi were lower in the western region of the state. Our findings substantiate that Lyme disease risk is high throughout Pennsylvania.


Assuntos
Anaplasma phagocytophilum , Vetores Aracnídeos/microbiologia , Babesia microti , Borrelia burgdorferi , Ixodes/microbiologia , Doenças Transmitidas por Carrapatos , Animais , Feminino , Humanos , Masculino , Pennsylvania/epidemiologia , Prevalência , Doenças Transmitidas por Carrapatos/epidemiologia , Doenças Transmitidas por Carrapatos/microbiologia , Doenças Transmitidas por Carrapatos/transmissão
16.
Intern Med J ; 45(11): 1141-6, 2015 Nov.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-26256544

RESUMO

BACKGROUND: Adrenal vein sampling (AVS) is useful for distinguishing unilateral versus bilateral hypersecretion in primary aldosteronism (PA), but is technically challenging. Furthermore, the use of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulation in AVS is controversial. We implemented a Monash Health-specific AVS protocol in 2010. AIM: The audit aimed to: (i) examine the impact of a dedicated protocol on success rates of AVS at a tertiary referral centre; (ii) evaluate the impact of AVS on sub-typing of PA; and (iii) assess the utility of ACTH stimulation in AVS. METHODS: AVS was performed on patients with PA confirmed by positive saline suppression testing (aldosterone level >140 pmol/L post-saline infusion), with sequential sampling of adrenal and peripheral veins, pre- and post-ACTH infusion. Patients with unilateral aldosterone-producing adenoma diagnosed on successful AVS were referred for adrenalectomy. RESULTS: Between 2010 and 2014 inclusive, a total of 28 AVS procedures was performed, with complete pre- and post-ACTH data for 19 procedures. Bilateral successful cannulation rates improved post-implementation of our protocol (61% vs 41%). Of the patients, 32% had discordant imaging and AVS results: four patients with unilateral adenomas did not lateralise on AVS and were managed medically; four patients with bilateral or no adenomas on imaging, lateralised on AVS and had surgery. Overall, use of ACTH did not increase successful cannulation and tended to mask lateralisation. CONCLUSION: AVS is crucial in subtype classification of PA and should be performed by a dedicated radiologist with a standardised protocol. AVS outcomes were not improved with the use of ACTH stimulation.


Assuntos
Glândulas Suprarrenais/irrigação sanguínea , Glândulas Suprarrenais/metabolismo , Atenção à Saúde/métodos , Hiperaldosteronismo/sangue , Hiperaldosteronismo/diagnóstico , Glândulas Suprarrenais/efeitos dos fármacos , Hormônio Adrenocorticotrópico/administração & dosagem , Adulto , Idoso , Aldosterona/sangue , Aldosterona/metabolismo , Austrália/epidemiologia , Feminino , Humanos , Hiperaldosteronismo/epidemiologia , Masculino , Pessoa de Meia-Idade , Veias/efeitos dos fármacos , Veias/metabolismo
17.
Heredity (Edinb) ; 113(1): 52-63, 2014 Jul.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-24642886

RESUMO

Species tree methods have provided improvements for estimating species relationships and the timing of diversification in recent radiations by allowing for gene tree discordance. Although gene tree discordance is often observed, most discordance is attributed to incomplete lineage sorting rather than other biological phenomena, and the causes of discordance are rarely investigated. We use species trees from multi-locus data to estimate the species relationships, evolutionary history and timing of diversification among Australian Gehyra-a group renowned for taxonomic uncertainty and showing a large degree of gene tree discordance. We find support for a recent Asian origin and two major clades: a tropically adapted clade and an arid adapted clade, with some exceptions, but no support for allopatric speciation driven by chromosomal rearrangement in the group. Bayesian concordance analysis revealed high gene tree discordance and comparisons of Robinson-Foulds distances showed that discordance between gene trees was significantly higher than that generated by topological uncertainty within each gene. Analysis of gene tree discordance and incomplete taxon sampling revealed that gene tree discordance was high whether terminal taxon or gene sampling was maximized, indicating discordance is due to biological processes, which may be important in contributing to gene tree discordance in many recently diversified organisms.


Assuntos
Adaptação Biológica/genética , Distribuição Animal , Evolução Biológica , Lagartos/genética , Filogenia , Animais , Sequência de Bases , Teorema de Bayes , Biologia Computacional , Evolução Molecular , Funções Verossimilhança , Modelos Genéticos , Dados de Sequência Molecular , Análise de Sequência de DNA , Especificidade da Espécie
18.
Neurosci Biobehav Rev ; 158: 105568, 2024 Mar.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38309496

RESUMO

Affective state encompasses emotional responses to our physiology and influences how we perceive and respond within our environment. In affective disorders such as depression, cognitive adaptability is challenged, and structural and functional brain changes have been identified. However, an incomplete understanding persists of the molecular and cellular mechanisms at play in affective state. An exciting area of newly appreciated importance is perineuronal nets (PNNs); a specialised component of extracellular matrix playing a critical role in neuroprotection and synaptic plasticity. A scoping review found 24 studies demonstrating that PNNs are still a developing field of research with a promising general trend for stress in adulthood to increase the intensity of PNNs, whereas stress in adolescence reduced (potentially developmentally delayed) PNN numbers and intensity, while antidepressants correlated with reduced PNN numbers. Despite promising trends, limited research underscores the need for further exploration, emphasizing behavioral outcomes for validating affective states. Understanding PNNs' role may offer therapeutic insights for depression and inform biomarker development, advancing precision medicine and enhancing well-being.


Assuntos
Encéfalo , Matriz Extracelular , Humanos , Matriz Extracelular/fisiologia , Emoções
19.
Health Equity ; 8(1): 226-234, 2024.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38559842

RESUMO

Introduction: Student health services are associated with improved health outcomes and academic success, particularly among under-resourced college populations. This study compared student health services at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs) and identified factors associated with the availability of comprehensive health services (CHS). Methods: We conducted a secondary analysis of 2022 data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), the Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) Directory, and the websites of HBCUs and PBIs (n=167). Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were undertaken to identify institutional variables associated with providing CHS. Institutional variables included college type (public vs. private), MSI category (HBCU vs. PBI), undergraduate enrollment, location, and proportion of Pell grant recipients. Results: Approximately 13% of HBCUs and 26% of PBIs offered no student health services; 65% of HBCUs and 39% of PBIs offered on-campus CHS with prescribing providers. Four-year HBCUs were five times more likely than 4-year PBIs to have CHS (p=0.014). Institutions with more Pell Grant recipients were less likely to offer CHS. Conclusions: Access to health care is an important social determinant of health, academic persistence, and achievement for college students. HBCUs were significantly more likely than PBIs to offer CHS. HBCUs are more likely than PBIs to have resources from federal funding, donors, and endowments that may support the development of student health centers and services. Increased funding for PBI health centers could improve access and promote health equity among the most vulnerable student populations.

20.
J Am Coll Health ; : 1-8, 2024 Jun 21.
Artigo em Inglês | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-38905516

RESUMO

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine the routine screening of female students in college health centers for six priority health-related behaviors and experiences (tobacco use, alcohol use, eating disorders [EDs], obesity, anxiety and depression, intimate partner violence/sexual violence [IPV/SV]), and to identify variations in practice. Participants: A nationally representative sample of 1,221 healthcare providers (HCPs), including nurse practitioners, physicians, and physician assistants, from 471 U.S. college health centers. Methods: HCPs completed surveys (on-line or paper) and reported on routine screening of female college students. Results: HCPs reported consistently high rates (75-85%) of screening for tobacco use, alcohol use, and anxiety/depression. Rates of screening for IPV/SV, obesity and EDs were much lower. Nurse practitioners reported the highest IPV/SV screening rates. Conclusions: College health centers present unique opportunities for screening, case-finding and intervening to reduce long-term sequelae. Providers are well-positioned to lead initiatives to improve screening practices.

SELEÇÃO DE REFERÊNCIAS
DETALHE DA PESQUISA