University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences

About: University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences is a education organization based out in Little Rock, Arkansas, United States. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Health care. The organization has 14077 authors who have published 26012 publications receiving 973592 citations. The organization is also known as: UAMS.

Phospholipase A 2 s in Cell Injury and Death

Abstract: Phospholipase A(2)s (PLA(2)s) represent a family of esterases that hydrolyze the sn-2 ester bond in phospholipids, releasing free fatty acids and lysophospholipids. PLA(2)s are important in the signaling of several cellular processes and are known to play a significant role in inflammation. Studies also show that PLA(2)s are modulators of drug-, chemical-, and ischemia/reperfusion-induced cellular injury. The role of PLA(2)s in apoptosis and oncosis depends upon the PLA(2) isoform, the cell type, and the stimulus of injury. The purpose of this review is to discuss the functions of iPLA(2), cPLA(2) and sPLA(2) isoforms in oncosis and apoptosis, including oxidant-induced and receptor-mediated cell death. In addition, the measurement and modulation of PLA(2) is discussed.

Weight Loss of Black, White, and Hispanic Men and Women in the Diabetes Prevention Program

Abstract: Objective: To provide the specific weight loss outcomes for African-American, Hispanic, and white men and women in the lifestyle and metformin treatment arms of the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) by race-gender group to facilitate researchers translating similar interventions to minority populations, as well as provide realistic weight loss expectations for clinicians. Methods and Procedures: Secondary analyses of weight loss of 2,921 overweight participants (22% black; 17% Hispanic; 61% white; and 68% women) with impaired glucose tolerance randomized in the DPP to intensive lifestyle modification, metformin or placebo. Data over a 30-month period are examined for comparability across treatment arms by race and gender. Results: Within lifestyle treatment, all race-gender groups lost comparable amounts of weight with the exception of black women who exhibited significantly smaller weight losses (P < 0.01). For example, at 12 months, weight losses for white men (−8.4%), white women (−8.1%), Hispanic men (−7.8%), Hispanic women (−7.1%), and black men (−7.1%) were similar and significantly higher than black women (−4.5%). In contrast, within metformin treatment, all race-gender groups including black women lost similar amounts of weight. Race-gender specific mean weight loss data are provided by treatment arm for each follow-up period. Discussion: Diminished weight losses were apparent among black women in comparison with other race-gender groups in a lifestyle intervention but not metformin, underscoring the critical nature of examining sociocultural and environmental contributors to successful lifestyle intervention for black women.

Well‐being in an academic environment

Abstract: Purpose Due to the high volume and acuity of mental health issues presented by graduate and professional students nationwide, this study explored specific mental health needs in students in order to identify credible areas for intervention. Methods An assessment tool was created for this project, which identified satisfaction with current services, stress, coping, sleeping, eating, exercise, high risk sexual behaviours, social support, depression and substance use. Students at top ranking academic medical centres within the USA received a copy of the instrument on 2 separate occasions. Results Results indicated that graduate and professional students reported alarming symptoms of depression, stress and substance use. Increased symptoms of depression were associated with high levels of stress and low social support. Conclusion Given the high rates of depression symptoms in this setting, along with inadequate services and long waiting lists, interventions must be found to address need. Need assessment is a proactive method of exploring need in specific populations in order to provide preventive and clinical services efficiently. Based on the relationship between stress, social support and symptoms of depression, forming groups aimed at preventing depression may be the best method of reducing the severity and frequency of symptoms in students.