Thursday, March 27, 2008

Serological patterns and temporal trends of HTLV-1/2 infection in high-risk populations attending Public Health Units in São Paulo, Brazil.

J Clin Virol. 2008 Mar 16;
Jacob F, Santos-Fortuna E, Azevedo RS, Caterino-de-Araujo A

BACKGROUND: HTLV-1/2 diagnosis in high-risk populations from São Paulo, Brazil has been problematic due a high proportion of seroindeterminate results. OBJECTIVES: To confirm and extend previous findings regarding HTLV-1/2 diagnosis in this geographic area. STUDY DESIGN: Sera from 2312 patients were tested for HTLV-1/2 antibodies using enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and Western blot (WB) analysis. Patients were from AIDS Reference Centers (Group I; 1393 patients) and HTLV out-patient clinics (Group II; 919 patients). Results were analyzed according to patients' age, gender, and clinic type. RESULTS: HTLV-1 and HTLV-2 were detected in both groups. Among seropositive females, HTLV-2 was slightly more common in Group I (54.5%), while HTLV-1 prevailed in Group II (73.9%). Males from Group II had a higher percentage of HTLV-seroindeterminate results. No correlation between HTLV serological results and age was detected. Temporal analyses disclosed a high number of HTLV-seroindeterminate samples, and a large spectrum of indeterminate WB profiles. GD21 and/or rgp46-II bands were detected in 34.6% of sera from Group I, and a p24 or p19 band was detected in 35.3% of sera from Group II. CONCLUSIONS: High rates of HTLV-indeterminate serological patterns during temporal analyses were confirmed in high-risk populations from São Paulo, Brazil.

Kid Friendly in Montana

Kid Friendly in Montana by Cyd

To help kids understand what Montana offers, Travel Montana's Publications Program has put together a brochure called 'Kid Friendly Montana.' This colorful, cartoon- bordered piece provides basic facts about Montana---its geography, economy, state symbols, etc.---along with color photos and text on Montana's numerous family-oriented attractions.

So what makes Montana such a special place for young people to visit? The possibilities are endless. Here's a short list of popular kid-tested diversions:

1. Mountain wildlife at Glacier National Park,

2. Active dinosaur dig sites open to the public,

3. Horses to ride across Montana's landscape,

4. Indian powwows where tribal members celebrate the old ways,

5. Crystal clear rivers, lakes, and streams offering water adventures. The Whitehall area offers fabulous fishing?so many rivers and lakes, so little time.

6. Winter snows creating mountain playgrounds with x-country skiing and sleigh riding outside our door

7. Since The Fish Creek House is but 20 miles from Butte, we suggest the World Mining Museu Located at Montana Tech University in Butte, MT, this museum is incredible and is literally known worldwide in the mining industry. When we visited we found people from all over the country and the guest book, which had entries from 131 countries they said. Wow. The entire city of Butte, MT is literally a museum in itself, we recommend you go and check it out and learn a little about how we became the greatest country in the world through our early efforts in heavy industry.

A trip to Montana wouldnt be complete without visiting Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Enroute to Yellowstone,from Glacier, stop off and visit the Fish Creek House B&B, both kid and pet friendly

Sound like the same things that attract adults to Montana?

Montana's annual calendar is full of festivals, events, and celebrations. For additional information regarding camping and outdoor recreation, lodging, attractions, and special events contact Travel Montana.

Cid Bus has been an executive in the Hospitality Industry for 15 years. Also a graduate of the NY Restaurant school, and co-owner of a catering company, you are invited to make Montana Memories at Fish Creek House Bed and Breakfast Acompetitive long distance trail runner and x-country skiier, they can be tracked down at their bed and breakfast Fish Creek House in Southwest Montana

Article Directory: Article Dashboard

What Are Some Natural Hypoglycemia Treatments?

What Are Some Natural Hypoglycemia Treatments? by Gray Rollins -

Hypoglycemia is a condition where there is low blood sugar. Symptoms of this include anxiety, trembling, heart palpitations, sweating, and dilated pupils. Many symptoms can occur or become more severe after eating. It is important to consult a physician if these symptoms are present to rule out more serious complications. However, there are many natural ways to reduce effects and control the condition.

A healthy diet is essential in treating hypoglycemia. Eliminating sugar from the diet, or greatly reducing it proves to have positive results. This includes candy, cookies, pastries and other types of sweets commonly eaten. Care should also be taken to reduce the amount of alcohol and caffeine intake. Choose foods high in complex carbohydrates and high in fiber. It is also important to eat regularly at the same time each day. Do not skip meals or delay meals unnecessarily. Foods with artificial sweeteners can also prove damaging, and reducing the amount of this type of food will benefit greatly. Get in the habit of reading the labels on food products to avoid hidden ingredients.

Use of nutritional supplements will also alleviate symptoms of hypoglycemia. Chromium, fish oil and magnesium have been proven good dietary supplements. Chromium is especially recommended as a diet supplement. Also, selenium and N-acetyl cysteine are recommended. Vitamin additions to the diet may be helpful. The most common vitamin recommendation is niacinamide. Alternately, add the use of a multivitamin.

There are psychological conditions that may cause the onset of hypoglycemia and it is important to reduce those factors. Ensure a full night?s sleep is attained as sleeplessness can aggravate symptoms. Learning relaxation techniques will also help. Try meditation or other calming exercises to reduce stress levels. Learn to control the rhythm of breathing in case of distress. This calming ability will help offset any ill effects.

Being active and exercising is a valuable health benefit. Not only does it keep the body healthy and reduce possible effects of hypoglycemia, it also is a relaxation technique. Do not overdo it, however. Exercise at a comfortable level several times per week, employing aerobic fitness such as walking, using a treadmill or bicycling.

Hypoglycemia is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. The numbers are rising steadily with more people eating foods high in sugar. This condition is easily controlled, though, with the use of proper diet, exercise and supplements. Small changes in lifestyle can greatly reduce the ill effects of hypoglycemia symptoms.

Gray Rollins is a featured writer for HypoglycemiaInfo.com. To learn more about the symptoms of hypoglycemia and low blood sugar, visit us.

Article Directory: Article Dashboard