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1.
Dementia (London) ; : 14713012241283189, 2024 Sep 14.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-39277785

RESUMEN

Background: People from South Asian communities are under-represented at all levels of dementia services. Consequently, there is pressure for the statutory sector to deliver services in partnership with Voluntary, Community, Faith and Social Enterprises (VCFSEs). This study set out to explore the constraints to effective partnership working which prevent dementia care from being delivered in an equitable way.Methods: Data collection consisted of two phases. First, we interviewed seven people with experience of partnership working and developed three fictional vignettes that were representative of the challenges they faced. We then used these vignettes to stimulate discussion in focus groups and interviews with 13 VCFSE and 16 statutory sector participants. Data was analysed using deductive thematic analysis.Findings: Three themes were developed during the analysis. First, White British-centric services focused on the challenges for statutory services in meeting the needs of South Asians, developing flexible, responsive services and making inclusive partnership working truly meaningful. Second, VCFSE participants (but not statutory service participants) associated a failure to deliver effective partnership working with unconscious bias operating within systems, leading to the devaluing of their expertise and to their views being ignored. Finally, participants emphasised the need to prioritise relationships if they were to meet the challenges of developing partnership working.Conclusion: We identified three constraints acting to prevent effective partnership working. First, the different meanings that statutory and VCFSE participants attach to challenges threatens their ability to develop a shared understanding of the needs of communities. Second, a reluctance to explicitly address service deficiencies can mean that stereotypes remain unaddressed. Finally, while both parties lacked power to change the fundamentals of service delivery, power and resources were also unbalanced with VCSFE services being more reliant on the statutory sector.

2.
J Nutr Health Aging ; 24(3): 305-311, 2020.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-32115612

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVES: Malnutrition is a common and significant public health problem, especially for older adults, as the consequences are costly. National guidelines (NICE CG32/QS24) highlight the need to identify and manage malnutrition, the implementation of which was deemed "high impact to produce cost savings". The 'Malnutrition Pathway', endorsed by NICE and other professional bodies, is a practical evidence-based guide to help community healthcare professionals (HCP) to implement guidance on malnutrition management. Published evaluations of its use are needed. DESIGN: This service evaluation in older adults assessed the impact of implementing the 'Malnutrition Pathway' on health care use and costs, as well as the acceptability of the management strategies and effect on malnutrition risk. SETTING: 5 GP surgeries in Gloucestershire. PARTICIPANTS: 163 older adults (80±9 years) with a range of primary diagnoses, living in their own home, were screened using the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool ('MUST') (n50 low risk (LR); n41 medium risk (MR); n72 high risk (HR)). All patients were managed according to risk (LR: no further management; MR: dietary advice (DA); and HR: DA plus two oral nutritional supplements (ONS) (1 serve 300kcal, 18g protein; 125ml). MEASUREMENTS: At each review (6weeks, 3 and 6 months), 'MUST' score, compliance and satisfaction to their management plan were recorded. Healthcare use was collected from GP records 6 months before and after implementation of the pathway. A simple cost analysis was completed. RESULTS: Implementing appropriate management of malnutrition led to significant reductions in hospital admissions (p=0.028), length of hospital stay (p=0.05), GP visits (p=0.007) and antibiotic prescriptions (p=0.05). Over 6 months, the costs to manage malnutrition (HCP time, ONS) were more than offset by the savings associated with these reductions in health care use (per patient savings of -£395.64 MR+HR; -£997.02 HR). The proportion of individuals at risk of malnutrition reduced over time, and patients reported being satisfied with the DA (97%) and ONS (96%), consuming 90% of their ONS prescription. CONCLUSION: Managing malnutrition significantly reduces healthcare use, with a positive budget impact, in older malnourished patients in primary care. This represents an opportunity to improve patient care with benefit on health care spend.


Asunto(s)
Desnutrición/diagnóstico , Desnutrición/economía , Tamizaje Masivo/métodos , Evaluación Nutricional , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Femenino , Medicina General , Humanos , Masculino
3.
Mar Pollut Bull ; 64(12): 2790-806, 2012 Dec.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-23079701

RESUMEN

We used a comparative approach to investigate the impact of the disposal of gold mine tailings into the ocean near the Lihir mine (Niolam Island, Papua New Guinea). We found abundance and diversity of zooplankton, micronekton and pelagic fish to be similar or higher in the mine region compared to the reference site. We also found relatively high trace metal concentrations in lower trophic level groups, especially zooplankton, near the mine discharge, but few differences in tissue concentrations of micronekton, baitfish and pelagic fish between the two regions. Biomagnification of some trace metals by micronekton, and of mercury by fish was evident in both regions. We conclude that ocean mine waste disposal at Niolam Island has a local impact on the smaller and less mobile pelagic communities in terms of trace metal concentrations, but has little effect on the abundance and biodiversity of the local food web.


Asunto(s)
Ecosistema , Oro , Minería , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua/análisis , Zooplancton/clasificación , Animales , Biodiversidad , Monitoreo del Ambiente , Peces/metabolismo , Cadena Alimentaria , Mercurio/análisis , Mercurio/metabolismo , Metales/análisis , Metales/metabolismo , Papúa Nueva Guinea , Eliminación de Residuos , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua/metabolismo , Zooplancton/crecimiento & desarrollo , Zooplancton/metabolismo
4.
Mar Pollut Bull ; 54(3): 309-21, 2007 Mar.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-17173938

RESUMEN

Little is known about the impacts of mine waste disposal, including deep-sea tailings, on tropical marine environments and this study presents the first account of this impact on deepwater fish communities. The Lihir gold mine in Papua New Guinea has deposited both excavated overburden and processed tailings slurry into the coastal environment since 1997. The abundances of fish species and trace metal concentrations in their tissues were compared between sites adjacent to and away from the mine. In this study (1999-2002), 975 fish of 98 species were caught. Significantly fewer fish were caught close to the mine than in neighbouring regions; the highest numbers were in regions distant from the mine. The catch rates of nine of the 17 most abundant species were lowest, and in three species were highest, close to the mine. There appears to be limited contamination in fish tissues caused by trace metals disposed as mine waste. Although arsenic (several species) and mercury (one species) were found in concentrations above Australian food standards. However, as in the baseline (pre-mine) sampling, it appears they are accumulating these metals mostly from naturally-occurring sources rather than the mine waste.


Asunto(s)
Peces , Oro , Minería , Eliminación de Residuos , Clima Tropical , Animales , Hígado/química , Biología Marina , Metales/análisis , Músculos/química , Océano Pacífico , Papúa Nueva Guinea , Densidad de Población , Factores de Tiempo , Contaminantes Químicos del Agua/análisis
5.
J Anat ; 208(3): 381-7, 2006 Mar.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-16533320

RESUMEN

The lymphoid tissues of the red-tailed phascogale (Phascogale calura) were examined using histological and immunohistochemical techniques. The distribution of immune cells in the tissue beds was documented using antibodies to surface markers CD3 and an MHC Class II antigen (equivalent to HLA DRII). Spleen, gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT), lung, bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) and liver were examined. The spleen had defined areas of red and white pulp, with follicles containing tingible-bodied macrophages. Anti-CD3 and anti-HLA DRII antibodies revealed the presence of T cells in areas of white pulp and around the peri-arterial lymphatic sheaths. GALT and BALT were detected and appeared as scattered areas of lymphocytes in the tissues beds. This is the first study to report on the lymphoid tissues of this endangered species of marsupial and the first report of the capacity of anti-human antibodies to a surface MHC molecule to react with Dasyurid cells.


Asunto(s)
Sistema Inmunológico/anatomía & histología , Marsupiales/inmunología , Animales , Intestinos/inmunología , Hígado/irrigación sanguínea , Hígado/inmunología , Pulmón/inmunología , Marsupiales/anatomía & histología , Bazo/inmunología , Conservación de Tejido
6.
Malar J ; 3: 5, 2004 Mar 08.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-15003128

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Plasmodium vivax is the second most common species among malaria patients diagnosed in Europe, but epidemiological and clinical data on imported P. vivax malaria are limited. The TropNetEurop surveillance network has monitored the importation of vivax malaria into Europe since 1999. OBJECTIVES: To present epidemiological and clinical data on imported P. vivax malaria collected at European level. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data of primary cases of P. vivax malaria reported between January 1999 and September 2003 were analysed, focusing on disease frequency, patient characteristics, place of infection, course of disease, treatment and differences between network-member countries. RESULTS: Within the surveillance period 4,801 cases of imported malaria were reported. 618 (12.9%) were attributed to P. vivax. European travellers and immigrants were the largest patient groups, but their proportion varied among the reporting countries. The main regions of infection in descending order were the Indian subcontinent, Indonesia, South America and Western and Eastern Africa, as a group accounting for more than 60% of the cases. Regular use of malaria chemoprophylaxis was reported by 118 patients. With 86 (inter-quartile range 41-158) versus 31 days (inter-quartile range 4-133) the median symptom onset was significantly delayed in patients with chemoprophylaxis (p < 0.0001). Common complaints were fever, headache, fatigue, and musculo-skeletal symptoms. All patients survived and severe clinical complications were rare. Hospitalization was provided for 60% and primaquine treatment administered to 83.8% of the patients, but frequencies varied strongly among reporting countries. CONCLUSIONS: TropNetEurop data can contribute to the harmonization of European treatment policies.


Asunto(s)
Malaria Vivax/epidemiología , Malaria Vivax/patología , Plasmodium vivax/aislamiento & purificación , Vigilancia de Guardia , Adulto , Animales , Europa (Continente) , Femenino , Humanos , Masculino , Viaje
7.
J Travel Med ; 10(3): 164-9, 2003.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-12757691

RESUMEN

BACKGROUND: Schistosomiasis is a major parasitic disease, increasingly imported into temperate climates by immigrants from and travelers to endemic areas. METHOD: To generate valid data on imported infectious diseases to Europe and to recognize trends over time, the European Network on Imported Infectious Diseases Surveillance (TropNetEurop) was founded in 1999. Three hundred and thirty-three reports of schistosomiasis were analyzed for epidemiologic and clinical features. RESULTS: Male patients accounted for 64% of all cases. The average age of all patients was 29.5 years. The majority of patients were of European origin (53%). Europeans traveled predominantly for tourism (52%). Main reasons for travel for people from endemic areas were immigration and refuge (51%) and visits to relatives and friends (28%). The majority of infections were acquired in Africa; 92 infections were clearly attributable to Schistosoma haematobium, 130 to Schistosoma mansoni, and 4 to Schistosoma intercalatum. Praziquantel was the only treatment used. No deaths were recorded. CONCLUSION: TropNetEurop sentinel provides valuable epidemiologic and clinical data on imported schistosomiasis to Europe.


Asunto(s)
Esquistosomiasis/epidemiología , Vigilancia de Guardia , Viaje/estadística & datos numéricos , Adolescente , Adulto , África , Anciano , Animales , Antihelmínticos/uso terapéutico , Niño , Preescolar , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Femenino , Humanos , Lactante , Recién Nacido , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Praziquantel/uso terapéutico , Schistosoma/aislamiento & purificación , Esquistosomiasis/diagnóstico , Esquistosomiasis/tratamiento farmacológico , Esquistosomiasis/microbiología
8.
Clin Infect Dis ; 36(8): 990-5, 2003 Apr 15.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-12684911

RESUMEN

Previous studies have indicated that age is a risk factor for severe falciparum malaria in nonimmune patients. The objectives of this study were to reevaluate previous findings with a larger sample and to find out how strongly clinical outcomes for elderly patients differ from those for younger patients. Results of adjusted analyses indicated that the risks of death due to falciparum malaria, of experiencing cerebral or severe disease in general, and of hospitalization increased significantly with each decade of life. The case-fatality rate was almost 6 times greater among elderly patients than among younger patients, and cerebral complications occurred 3 times more often among elderly patients. Antimalarial chemoprophylaxis was significantly associated with a lower case-fatality rate and a lower frequency of cerebral complications. Women were more susceptible to cerebral complications than were men. Our study provides evidence that falciparum malaria is more serious in older patients and demonstrates that clinical surveillance networks are capable of providing quality data for investigation of rare events or diseases.


Asunto(s)
Malaria Falciparum/mortalidad , Factores de Riesgo , Factores de Edad , Anciano , Animales , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Resultado Fatal , Femenino , Humanos , Malaria Falciparum/epidemiología , Masculino
9.
Clin Infect Dis ; 35(9): 1047-52, 2002 Nov 01.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-12384837

RESUMEN

Travelers have the potential both to acquire and to spread dengue virus infection. The incidence of dengue fever (DF) among European travelers certainly is underestimated, because few centers use standardized diagnostic procedures for febrile patients. In addition, DF is currently not reported in most European public health systems. Surveillance has commenced within the framework of a European Network on Imported Infectious Disease Surveillance (TropNetEurop) to gain information on the quantity and severity of cases of dengue imported into Europe. Descriptions of 294 patients with DF were analyzed for epidemiological information and clinical features. By far the most infections were imported from Asia, which suggests a high risk of DF for travelers to that region. Dengue hemorrhagic fever occurred in 7 patients (2.4%) all of whom recovered. Data reported by member sites of the TropNetEurop can contribute to understanding the epidemiology and clinical characteristics of imported DF.


Asunto(s)
Virus del Dengue , Dengue/epidemiología , Vigilancia de Guardia , Adolescente , Adulto , Anciano , Asia/epidemiología , Niño , Preescolar , Dengue/fisiopatología , Dengue/transmisión , Emigración e Inmigración , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Femenino , Humanos , Lactante , Internet , Masculino , Persona de Mediana Edad , Factores de Riesgo , Viaje
10.
Anim Reprod Sci ; 70(3-4): 261-6, 2002 Apr 15.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-11943495

RESUMEN

We report a possible case of extended gestation in the koala, Phascolarctos cinereus. Birth of a pouch young was first observed 127 days after the removal of the male from a multi-female colony at Taronga Zoo. No other males were present at that time or had access to the facility. Head measurements and other growth data collected at the time of detection and over the period of pouch life indicates the time from removal of the male and the date of birth to be between 50 and 77 days. DNA fingerprinting using microsatellite loci unambiguously assigned paternity of the pouch young to this male. These observations suggest either an extended period of gestation of at least 50 days, or activation of a dormant blastocyst from the previous breeding season, as the female entered the period of seasonal oestrus.


Asunto(s)
Edad Gestacional , Marsupiales/fisiología , Animales , Blastocisto/fisiología , Cruzamiento , Desarrollo Embrionario y Fetal , Femenino , Genotipo , Masculino , Marsupiales/embriología , Marsupiales/genética , Repeticiones de Microsatélite , Embarazo , Estaciones del Año , Factores de Tiempo
11.
Clin Infect Dis ; 34(5): 572-6, 2002 Mar 01.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-11803507

RESUMEN

Malaria continues to have a high morbidity rate associated among European travelers. Thorough recording of epidemiological and clinical aspects of imported malaria has been helpful in the detection of new outbreaks and areas of developing drug resistance. Sentinel surveillance of data collected prospectively since 1999 has begun within TropNetEurop, a European network focusing on imported infectious diseases. TropNetEurop appears to cover approximately 10% of all patients with malaria seen in Europe. Reports of 1659 immigrants and European patients with Plasmodium falciparum malaria were analyzed for epidemiological information and data on clinical features. Regional data were quite diverse, reflecting local patterns of immigration and international travel. By far, the most infections were imported from West Africa. Europeans had more clinical complications; consequently, all deaths occurred in this group. Compared with European standards, the mortality rate was low (0.6% in Europeans). Data from TropNetEurop member sites can contribute to our understanding of the epidemiological and clinical findings regarding imported falciparum malaria.


Asunto(s)
Malaria Falciparum/epidemiología , Vigilancia de Guardia , Adolescente , Adulto , África/epidemiología , Anciano , Anciano de 80 o más Años , Niño , Preescolar , Enfermedades Transmisibles/epidemiología , Enfermedades Transmisibles/transmisión , Europa (Continente)/epidemiología , Humanos , Lactante , Malaria Falciparum/mortalidad , Malaria Falciparum/transmisión , Persona de Mediana Edad , Morbilidad , Viaje
12.
Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol ; 21(11): 1809-15, 2001 Nov.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-11701470

RESUMEN

Transgenic mice with macrophage-specific expression of human (hu) lipoprotein lipase (LPL) were generated to determine the contribution of macrophage LPL to atherogenesis. Macrophage specificity was accomplished with the scavenger receptor A promoter. Complete characterization demonstrated that macrophages from these mice expressed huLPL mRNA and secreted enzymatically active huLPL protein. Expression of huLPL was macrophage specific, because total RNA isolated from heart, thymus, lung, liver, muscle, and adipose tissues was devoid of huLPL mRNA. Macrophage-specific expression of huLPL did not exacerbate lesions in aortas of C57BL/6 mice even after 32 weeks on an atherosclerotic diet. However, when expressed in apolipoprotein E knockout background, the extent of occlusion in the aortic sinus region of male huLPL+ mice increased 51% (n=9 to 11, P<0.002) compared with huLPL- mice after they had been fed a Western diet for 8 weeks. The proatherogenic effect of macrophage LPL was confirmed in serial sections of the aorta obtained after mice had been fed a Western diet for 3 weeks. By immunohistochemical analysis, huLPL protein was detected in the lesions of huLPL+ mice but not in huLPL- mice. Our results establish that macrophage LPL accelerates atherosclerosis in male apolipoprotein E knockout mice.


Asunto(s)
Apolipoproteínas E/genética , Arteriosclerosis/etiología , Lipoproteína Lipasa/biosíntesis , Macrófagos/metabolismo , Transcripción Genética , Animales , Arteriosclerosis/metabolismo , Arteriosclerosis/patología , Células Cultivadas , Femenino , Humanos , Lípidos/sangre , Lipoproteína Lipasa/genética , Lipoproteína Lipasa/fisiología , Masculino , Ratones , Ratones Endogámicos C57BL , Ratones Noqueados , Ratones Transgénicos , ARN Mensajero/biosíntesis , Distribución Tisular
13.
J Lipid Res ; 41(11): 1858-71, 2000 Nov.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-11060356

RESUMEN

Apolipoprotein E (apoE) is the primary recognition signal on triglyceride-rich lipoproteins responsible for interacting with low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptors and LDL receptor-related protein (LRP). It has been shown that lipoprotein lipase (LPL) and hepatic triglyceride lipase (HTGL) promote receptor-mediated uptake and degradation of very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) and remnant particles, possibly by directly binding to lipoprotein receptors. In this study we have investigated the requirement for apoE in lipase-stimulated VLDL degradation. We compared binding and degradation of normal and apoE-depleted human VLDL and apoE knockout mouse VLDL in human foreskin fibroblasts. Surface binding at 37 degrees C of apoE knockout VLDL was greater than that of normal VLDL by 3- and 40-fold, respectively, in the presence of LPL and HTGL. In spite of the greater stimulation of surface binding, lipase-stimulated degradation of apoE knockout mouse VLDL was significantly lower than that of normal VLDL (30, 30, and 80%, respectively, for control, LPL, and HTGL treatments). In the presence of LPL and HTGL, surface binding of apoE-depleted human VLDL was, respectively, 40 and 200% of normal VLDL whereas degradation was, respectively, 25 and 50% of normal VLDL. LPL and HTGL stimulated degradation of normal VLDL in a dose-dependent manner and by a LDL receptor-mediated pathway. Maximum stimulation (4-fold) was seen in the presence LPL (1 microgram/ml) or HTGL (3 microgram/ml) in lovastatin-treated cells. On the other hand, degradation of apoE-depleted VLDL was not significantly increased by the presence of lipases even in lovastatin-treated cells. Surface binding of apoE-depleted VLDL to metabolically inactive cells at 4 degrees C was higher in control and HTGL-treated cells, but unchanged in the presence of LPL. Degradation of prebound apoE-depleted VLDL was only 35% as efficient as that of normal VLDL. Surface binding of apoE knockout or apoE-depleted VLDL was to heparin sulfate proteoglycans because it was completely abolished by heparinase treatment. However, apoE appears to be a primary determinant for receptor-mediated VLDL degradation. Our studies suggest that overexpression of LPL or HTGL may not protect against lipoprotein accumulation seen in apoE deficiency.


Asunto(s)
Apolipoproteínas E/fisiología , Lipasa/metabolismo , Lipoproteína Lipasa/metabolismo , Lipoproteínas VLDL/metabolismo , Animales , Apolipoproteínas E/deficiencia , Apolipoproteínas E/genética , Bovinos , Emulsiones , Emulsiones Grasas Intravenosas/metabolismo , Fibroblastos/metabolismo , Humanos , Lipoproteínas HDL/metabolismo , Lipoproteínas LDL/metabolismo , Lipoproteínas VLDL/sangre , Lipoproteínas VLDL/química , Hígado/enzimología , Proteína 1 Relacionada con Receptor de Lipoproteína de Baja Densidad , Ratones , Ratones Noqueados , Receptores Inmunológicos/metabolismo , Receptores de LDL/metabolismo , Triglicéridos/metabolismo
14.
J Lipid Res ; 40(7): 1263-75, 1999 Jul.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-10393211

RESUMEN

We demonstrate here that hepatic triglyceride lipase (HTGL) enhances VLDL degradation in cultured cells by a LDL receptor-mediated mechanism. VLDL binding at 4 degrees C and degradation at 37 degrees C by normal fibroblasts was stimulated by HTGL in a dose-dependent manner. A maximum increase of up to 7-fold was seen at 10 microg/ml HTGL. Both VLDL binding and degradation were significantly increased (4-fold) when LDL receptors were up-regulated by treatment with lovastatin. HTGL also stimulated VLDL degradation by LDL receptor-deficient FH fibroblasts but the level of maximal degradation was 40-fold lower than in lovastatin-treated normal fibroblasts. A prominent role for LDL receptors was confirmed by demonstration of similar HTGL-promoted VLDL degradation by normal and LRP-deficient murine embryonic fibroblasts. HTGL enhanced binding and internalization of apoprotein-free triglyceride emulsions, however, this was LDL receptor-independent. HTGL-stimulated binding and internalization of apoprotein-free emulsions was totally abolished by heparinase indicating that it was mediated by HSPG. In a cell-free assay HTGL competitively inhibited the binding of VLDL to immobilized LDL receptors at 4 degrees C suggesting that it may directly bind to LDL receptors but may not bind VLDL particles at the same time. We conclude that the ability of HTGL to enhance VLDL degradation is due to its ability to concentrate lipoprotein particles on HSPG sites on the cell surface leading to LDL receptor-mediated endocytosis and degradation.


Asunto(s)
Lipasa/metabolismo , Lipoproteínas VLDL/metabolismo , Hígado/enzimología , Receptores de LDL/metabolismo , Animales , Línea Celular , Fibroblastos/metabolismo , Liasa de Heparina/metabolismo , Humanos , Proteína 1 Relacionada con Receptor de Lipoproteína de Baja Densidad , Ratones , Receptores Inmunológicos/metabolismo , alfa-Macroglobulinas/metabolismo
15.
Am J Physiol ; 274(6): H1885-94, 1998 06.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-9841516

RESUMEN

We tested the hypothesis that increased endothelial cell adenosine 3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) decreases microvascular permeability in vivo. The effects of cAMP-specific phosphodiesterase type IV inhibition and adenylate cyclase activation on microvascular hydraulic conductivity (Lp) were investigated in intact individual capillaries and postcapillary venules in mesentery of pithed frogs (Rana pipiens). Treatment with rolipram (10 microM) and forskolin (5 microM) for 25 min decreased Lp to 37% of control. Rolipram alone also significantly decreased Lp. Isoproterenol (10 microM) decreased Lp to 27% of control within 20 min. A subgroup of eight vessels treated with rolipram and forskolin, in which mean Lp fell to 25% of control, was examined with transmission electron microscopy. The mean number of tight junctions in the treated vessels was 2.2 per cleft (303 clefts), significantly higher than in a matched control group (192 clefts), which was 1.7 per cleft. The results indicate that microvascular Lp can be modulated by intracellular cAMP and that one of the structural end points of stimulated cAMP levels is an increase in the mean number of tight-junction strands between endothelial cells.


Asunto(s)
Permeabilidad Capilar/fisiología , AMP Cíclico/fisiología , Sistema Linfático/fisiología , Uniones Estrechas/fisiología , Agonistas Adrenérgicos beta/farmacología , Animales , Permeabilidad Capilar/efectos de los fármacos , Colforsina/farmacología , Hemorreología , Isoproterenol/farmacología , Sistema Linfático/efectos de los fármacos , Masculino , Pirrolidinonas/farmacología , Rana pipiens , Rolipram , Uniones Estrechas/efectos de los fármacos
16.
J Neurophysiol ; 78(2): 992-1002, 1997 Aug.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-9307129

RESUMEN

Temporal summation of sensory intensity was investigated in normal subjects using novel methods of thermal stimulation. A Peltier thermode was heated and then applied in a series of brief (700 ms) contacts to different sites on the glabrous skin of either hand. Repetitive contacts on the thenar or hypothenar eminence, at interstimulus intervals (ISIs) of 3 s, progressively increased the perceived intensity of a thermal sensation that followed each contact at an onset latency > 2 s. Temporal summation of these delayed (late) sensations was proportional to thermode temperature over a range of 45-53 degrees C, progressing from a nonpainful level (warmth) to painful sensations that could be rated as very strong after 10 contacts. Short-latency pain sensations rarely were evoked by such stimuli and never attained levels substantially above pain threshold for the sequences and temperatures presented. Temporal summation produced by brief contacts was greater in rate and amount than increases in sensory intensity resulting from repetitive ramping to the same temperature by a thermode in constant contact with the skin. Variation of the interval between contacts revealed a dependence of sensory intensity on interstimulus interval that is similar to physiological demonstrations of windup, where increasing frequencies of spike train activity are evoked from spinal neurons by repetitive activation of unmyelinated nociceptors. However, substantial summation at repetition rates of > or = 0.33 Hz was observed for temperatures that produced only late sensations of warmth when presented at frequencies < 0.16 Hz. Measurements of subepidermal skin temperature from anesthetized monkeys revealed different time courses for storage and dissipation of heat by the skin than for temporal summation and decay of sensory intensity for the human subjects. For example, negligible heat loss occurred during a 6-s interval between two trials of 10 contacts at 0.33 Hz, but ratings of sensory magnitude decreased from very strong levels of pain to sensations of warmth during the same interval. Evidence that temporal summation of sensory intensity during series of brief contacts relies on central integration, rather than a sensitization of peripheral receptors, was obtained using two approaches. In the first, a moderate degree of temporal summation was observed during alternating stimulation of adjacent but nonoverlapping skin sites at 0.33 Hz. Second, temporal summation was significantly attenuated by prior administration of dextromethorphan, a N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist.


Asunto(s)
Calor , Dolor/fisiopatología , Sensación/fisiología , Temperatura Cutánea/fisiología , Adulto , Humanos , Persona de Mediana Edad , Dimensión del Dolor/métodos , Potenciometría , Tiempo de Reacción/fisiología , Factores de Tiempo
18.
Arthritis Rheum ; 40(4): 683-93, 1997 Apr.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-9125250

RESUMEN

OBJECTIVE: To study eluates of intravenous gamma globulin (IVGG) prepared from affinity columns of human cationic IgG myeloma proteins bearing anti-DNA idiotype (Id) markers 16/6, F4, 3I, and 8.12 for possible anti-Id (combining site) blocking activity. METHODS: Anti-DNA idiotypic antibody activity was studied in 3 preparations of IVGG containing high, medium, and low levels of IgG anti-F(ab')2, and in 4 other commercial IVGG preparations. Affinity-purified IgG anti-DNA (APAD) from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients was biotinylated, and binding to DNA coated on enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay plates was used to measure anti-DNA antibody activity. IVGG was adsorbed to Sepharose 4B affinity columns linked to a panel of cationic human IgG myeloma proteins positive for anti-DNA Id markers 16/6, F4, 3I, and 8.12. Material adsorbing to such columns was eluted at low pH (2.5) and after neutralization, tested for its ability to inhibit biotinylated APAD reacting with DNA. RESULTS: Only 0.05-0.9% of IVGGs bound firmly to Id affinity columns. These IVGGs were then eluted, using pH 2.5 glycine-saline and eluates neutralized to pH 7.4. Column flowthrough and eluate fractions were compared for their ability to block SLE APAD reacting with DNA. Significant inhibition of SLE APAD combining sites was observed with eluates from anti-DNA Id affinity columns; however, no correlation between IVGG anti-F(ab')2 activity and true anti-Id blocking of APAD was apparent. No residual anti-Id activity remained in column flowthrough fractions. No anti-Id blocking activity was recorded for IVGG eluates from human cationic myeloma columns devoid of the 4 anti-DNA Id markers. DNase treatment of IVGG or Id column eluates did not affect anti-Id blocking activity. Thus, all detectable anti-DNA idiotypic antibody capable of blocking SLE anti-DNA combining sites bound to Id+ affinity columns. Column eluates also showed some relative concentration of IgG anti-DNA activity, which was of lower affinity for DNA than antibodies also present in eluates which blocked anti-DNA combining sites. CONCLUSION: The presence of both anti-DNA and antiidiotypic (anti-combining site) activity in human anti-DNA Id column eluates indicates that epibodies from IVGG are relatively concentrated when this strategy is used. This approach may lead to a new strategy for treatment of SLE nephritis.


Asunto(s)
Anticuerpos Antinucleares/metabolismo , Cromatografía de Afinidad , ADN/inmunología , Idiotipos de Inmunoglobulinas/metabolismo , Inmunoglobulinas Intravenosas/metabolismo , Proteínas de Mieloma/metabolismo , Adsorción , Sitios de Unión , Humanos , Inmunoglobulina G/metabolismo , Lupus Eritematoso Sistémico/inmunología
19.
J Biol Chem ; 271(29): 17073-80, 1996 Jul 19.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-8663292

RESUMEN

Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), the major enzyme responsible for the hydrolysis of plasma triglycerides, promotes binding and catabolism of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins by various cultured cells. Recent studies demonstrate that LPL binds to three members of the low density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor family, including the LDL receptor-related protein (LRP), GP330/LRP-2, and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) receptors and induces receptor-mediated lipoprotein catabolism. We show here that LDL receptors also bind LPL and mediate LPL-dependent catabolism of large VLDL with Sf 100-400. Up-regulation of LDL receptors by lovastatin treatment of normal human foreskin fibroblasts (FSF cells) resulted in an increase in LPL-induced VLDL binding and catabolism to a level that was 10-15-fold greater than in LDL receptor-negative fibroblasts, despite similar LRP activity in both cell lines. This indicates that the contribution of LRP to LPL-dependent degradation of VLDL is small when LDL receptors are maximally up-regulated. Furthermore studies in LRP-deficient murine embryonic fibroblasts showed that the level of LPL-dependent degradation of VLDL was similar to that in normal murine embryonic fibroblasts. LPL also promoted the internalization of protein-free triglyceride emulsions; lovastatin-treatment resulted in 2-fold higher uptake in FSF cells, indicating that LPL itself could bind to LDL receptors. However, the lower induction of emulsion catabolism as compared with native VLDL suggests that LPL-induced catabolism via LDL receptors is only partially dependent on receptor binding by LPL and instead is primarily due to activation of apolipoproteins such as apoE. A fusion protein between glutathione S-transferase and the catalytically inactive carboxyl-terminal domain of LPL (GST-LPLC) also induced binding and catabolism of VLDL. However GST-LPLC was not as active as native LPL, indicating that lipolysis is required for a maximal LPL effect. Mutations of critical tryptophan residues in GST-LPLC that abolished binding to VLDL converted the protein to an inhibitor of lipoprotein binding to LDL receptors. In solid-phase assays using immobilized receptors, LDL receptors bound to LPL in a dose-dependent manner. Both LPL and GST-LPLC promoted binding of VLDL to LDL receptor-coated wells. These results indicate that LPL binds to LDL receptors and suggest that the carboxyl-terminal domain of LPL contributes to this interaction.


Asunto(s)
Lipoproteína Lipasa/metabolismo , Lipoproteínas VLDL/metabolismo , Receptores de LDL/metabolismo , Alanina , Sitios de Unión , Catálisis , Células Cultivadas , Emulsiones , Emulsiones Grasas Intravenosas/metabolismo , Fibroblastos , Glutatión Transferasa , Humanos , Cinética , Lipoproteínas VLDL/aislamiento & purificación , Masculino , Mutagénesis Sitio-Dirigida , Mutación Puntual , Proteínas Recombinantes de Fusión/metabolismo , Piel/metabolismo , Triptófano
20.
J Am Optom Assoc ; 67(7): 430-3, 1996 Jul.
Artículo en Inglés | MEDLINE | ID: mdl-8888869

RESUMEN

I believe that optometry has gained tremendously from its involvement in the standards process. It enables us to reach out and become involved with other disciplines with which we might not otherwise develop relationships. We learn from the process and from these other disciplines, and what we learn is brought into our professional database through the educational process. It is important that we contribute our knowledge and skills to the development of standards because it is a way in which we can show others what we know and also provide meaningful leadership. I have every reason to believe that our participation in standards will be as satisfying in the future as it has been in the past.


Asunto(s)
Oftalmología/normas , Optometría/historia , Historia del Siglo XX , Humanos , Optometría/normas , Estados Unidos
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