Publications by authors named "Margarida Braga"
Background: Clinical risk factors of deficient immune responses to COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in SARS-CoV-2 naive hemodialysis recipients (HDR) have already been identified. Clinical factors influencing hybrid immunity induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination in HDR have not been reported.
Methods: A comprehensive analysis of antibody (Ab) and T cell responses to two doses of BNT162b2 mRNA vaccination was performed in 103 HDR, including 75 SARS-CoV-2 naive and 28 experienced patients, and in 106 healthy controls (HC) not undergoing HD, including 40 SARS-CoV-2 naive and 66 experienced subjects.
Article Synopsis
- Comorbidities and immunosuppressive treatments decrease immune responses to COVID-19 mRNA vaccines in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), particularly in those who have never been infected with SARS-CoV-2 (naïve KTRs).
- A study of 82 KTRs showed that those previously infected with SARS-CoV-2 (experienced KTRs) had vaccine responses similar to healthy controls, while naïve KTRs had significantly lower responses linked to factors like age and type of immunosuppressive therapy.
- The findings suggest that hybrid immunity (prior infection plus vaccination) effectively counteracts immune suppression in KTRs, enhancing both antibody and cellular responses against
Physical activity (PA) in elders has been shown to have positive effects on a plethora of chronic diseases and to improve immunity, mental health, and cognition. Chronic stress has also been shown to have immuno-suppressive effects and to accelerate immunosenescence. Exercise could be a significant factor in ameliorating the deleterious effects of chronic stress, but variables such as the type, intensity, and frequency of exercise that should be performed in order to effectively reduce the stress burden need to be defined clearly.
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- The text discusses various research studies focusing on health topics, including health literacy in adolescents and the impact of walking programs on individuals with schizophrenia.
- It also covers innovative medical practices, safety culture in patient care, and the psychological effects experienced by emergency crews after disasters.
- Additionally, it highlights issues such as musculoskeletal disorders in midwives, negative childhood experiences affecting adolescent mental health, and studies on vaccination timing and assessments in elderly care.