Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by infection with the enveloped RNA betacoronavirus, SARS-CoV-2, led to a global pandemic involving over 7 million deaths. Macrophage inflammatory responses impact COVID-19 severity; however, it is unclear whether macrophages are infected by SARS-CoV-2. We sought to identify mechanisms regulating macrophage expression of ACE2, the primary receptor for SARS-CoV-2, and to determine if macrophages are susceptible to productive infection.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFOsteochondral lesions of the talus involve injury to the articular cartilage and underlying subchondral bone. These lesions are difficult to treat because of the poor blood supply and poor regenerative capacity of the talar articular cartilage. It is important to provide a comprehensive overview of the clinical presentation, diagnostic tools, and nonsurgical and surgical treatment strategies for osteochondral lesions of the talus.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFObjectives: To describe a rapid, community-based assessment, referral and management system for acute symptomatic LDH. To identify and describe specific local anaesthetic and corticosteroid patterns of pain intensity change during the first week post-epidural injection.
Setting: Private practice, specialist physiotherapy clinic, community-based radiology facility.
Multiple open and endoscopic techniques have been described for recalcitrant cases of plantar fasciitis. Compared with open techniques, endoscopic plantar fasciotomy has been shown to be safe and effective with decreased postoperative pain and quicker recovery, as well as decreased risk of soft tissue and neurovascular injury, while retaining the ability to provide direct visualization of the plantar fascia to facilitate proper release. Single-portal endoscopic techniques may offer additional advantages including less portal site and postoperative pain, earlier return to activities, and cost-effectiveness and higher patient satisfaction when performed in the office setting.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFIntroduction The integration of pharmacists into general practice settings is increasingly common internationally. Within Aotearoa New Zealand, the role has evolved variably in different regions. Recent health policy and professional guidance support further development.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF