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Wells I, Zemedikun DT, Simons G, Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Raza K, Falahee M. Predictors of the likelihood that patients with rheumatoid arthritis will communicate information about rheumatoid arthritis risk to relatives: A quantitative assessment. Patient Educ Couns 2023; 112:107713. [PMID: 37003160 DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2023.107713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
First-degree relatives (FDRs) of people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are increasingly recruited to prediction and prevention studies. Access to FDRs is usually via their proband with RA. Quantitative data on predictors of family risk communication are lacking. RA patients completed a questionnaire assessing likelihood of communicating RA risk information to their FDRs, demographic variables, disease impact, illness perceptions, autonomy preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test for RA, dispositional openness, family functioning, and attitudes towards predictive testing. Ordinal regression examined associations between patients' characteristics and their median likelihood of communicating RA risk to FDRs. Questionnaires were completed by 482 patients. The majority (75.1%) were likely/extremely likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs, especially their children. Decision-making preferences, interest in FDRs taking a predictive test, and beliefs that risk knowledge would increase people's empowerment over their health increased patients' odds of being likely to communicate RA risk information to FDRs. Beliefs that risk information would cause stress to their relatives decreased odds that patients would be likely to communicate RA risk. These findings will inform the development of resources to support family communication about RA risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Wells
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Dawit T Zemedikun
- Institute of Applied Health Research, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, David Weatherall Building, Keele University, Keele, United Kingdom
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom; Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom; MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom.
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Simons G, Ismail N, Sandhu K, Mallen CD, Stack RJ, Pontefract S, Raza K, Falahee M. The potential role of community pharmacy staff in reducing patient delay in consulting with symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: a qualitative study. BMC Rheumatol 2022; 6:50. [PMID: 35999571 PMCID: PMC9400304 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-022-00280-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory arthritis which can cause joint damage and reduced quality of life. Early treatment of RA within 3 months of symptom onset is associated with improved clinical outcomes. However, this window of opportunity is often missed. One important contributing factor is patients with symptoms of RA delaying consulting their general practitioner (GP). Previous research indicates that patients with inflammatory arthritis are likely to visit pharmacies for advice before consulting their GP. Therefore, pharmacists are well positioned to identify patients with symptoms of early inflammatory arthritis and signpost them appropriately. This research examines community pharmacy staff’s knowledge, perceptions, and approaches to management of patients presenting with symptoms of RA in order to identify training needs and other opportunities for intervention to enhance the role of pharmacy staff in the pathway to care. Methods Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 community pharmacy staff in the West Midlands (UK), during a 12-month period (2017–2018). The interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using thematic analysis facilitated by NVivo 12. Results There was considerable variation in knowledge and perceptions of RA and the need for early treatment amongst pharmacists and other pharmacy staff. The potential role of pharmacists and other pharmacy staff in reducing delay in help-seeking was also discussed. Four themes emerged from thematic analysis: (1) Variations in perceptions and knowledge about RA. (2) The role of the pharmacy in increasing public awareness about RA. (3) The role of the pharmacy staff in facilitating access to the GP. (4) Practical considerations for pharmacy-based interventions. Conclusion Variability in knowledge and perceptions of RA amongst pharmacists, and amongst other pharmacy staff will affect effective signposting of suspected RA cases. This study identifies opportunities for enhanced training of community pharmacists and other pharmacy staff in relation to inflammatory arthritis as well as other pharmacy-based interventions, such as public awareness campaigns about RA and other musculoskeletal conditions. Together with existing referral services and other pharmacy-based initiatives this could result in enhanced signposting to GP consultation or other appropriate NHS services for inflammatory symptoms and reduced treatment delay.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Nour Ismail
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medical and Dental Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karanbir Sandhu
- Medical School, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Science, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sarah Pontefract
- School of Pharmacy, College of Medical and Dental Science, Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing (IIA), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Wells I, Zemedikun DT, Simons G, Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Raza K, Falahee M. Predictors of interest in predictive testing for rheumatoid arthritis among first degree relatives of rheumatoid arthritis patients. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2022; 61:3223-3233. [PMID: 34850849 PMCID: PMC9348622 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keab890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There is increasing interest in prediction and prevention of RA. It is important to understand the views of those at risk to inform the development of effective approaches. First-degree relatives (FDRs) of RA patients are at increased risk of RA. This study assessed predictors of their interest in predictive testing for RA. METHODS Questionnaires were completed by RA patients (provided with their questionnaire by a healthcare professional) and their FDRs (provided with their questionnaire by their RA proband). FDR surveys assessed interest in taking a predictive test, demographic variables, perceived RA risk, attitudes about predictive testing, autonomy preferences, illness perceptions, avoidance coping and health anxiety. Patient surveys included demographic variables, disease impact, RA duration and treatment. Ordinal logistic regression examined the association between FDRs' characteristics and their interest in predictive testing. Generalized estimating equations assessed associations between patient characteristics and FDRs' interest in predictive testing. RESULTS Three hundred and ninety-six FDRs responded. Paired data from the RA proband were available for 292. The proportion of FDRs interested in predictive testing was 91.3%. Information-seeking preferences, beliefs that predictive testing can increase empowerment over health and positive attitudes about risk knowledge were associated with increased interest. Beliefs that predictive testing could cause psychological harm predicted lower interest. Patient characteristics of the proband were not associated with FDRs' interest. CONCLUSIONS FDRs' interest in predictive testing for RA was high, and factors associated with interest were identified. These findings will inform the development of predictive strategies and informational resources for those at risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Imogen Wells
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences
| | | | - Gwenda Simons
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Primary Care Centre Versus Arthritis, School of Medicine, Keele University, Keele
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences.,NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust.,MRC Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and the Research into Inflammatory Arthritis Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences
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Mosor E, Stoffer-Marx M, Steiner G, Raza K, Stack RJ, Simons G, Falahee M, Skingle D, Dobrin M, Schett G, Englbrecht M, Smolen JS, Kjeken I, Hueber AJ, Stamm TA. I Would Never Take Preventive Medication! Perspectives and Information Needs of People Who Underwent Predictive Tests for Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2020; 72:360-368. [PMID: 30710453 PMCID: PMC7064954 DOI: 10.1002/acr.23841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Little is known about the experiences, values, and needs of people without arthritis who undergo predictive biomarker testing for the development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Our study aimed to explore the perspectives of these individuals and describe their information needs. METHODS A qualitative, multicenter interview study with a thematic analysis was conducted in Austria, Germany and the UK. Individuals were interviewed who underwent predictive biomarker testing for RA and had a positive test result but no diagnosis of any inflammatory joint disease. Participants included patients with arthralgia and asymptomatic individuals. Information and education needs were developed from the qualitative codes and themes using the Arthritis Educational Needs Assessment Tool as a frame of reference. RESULTS Thematic saturation was reached in 34 individuals (76% female, 24 [71%] with arthralgia, and 10 [29%] asymptomatic individuals). Thirty-seven codes were summarized into 4 themes: 1) decision-making around whether to undergo initial predictive testing, 2) willingness to consider further predictive tests, and/or 3) preventive interventions, including medication, and 4) varying reactions after receiving a positive test result. Individuals with arthralgia were more likely to be willing to take preventive action, undergo further testing, and experience psychological distress than asymptomatic individuals. All participants expressed the need for tailored, patient-understandable information. CONCLUSION Individuals at risk of RA are currently the subjects of research aimed at developing better predictive strategies and preventive approaches. Their perceptions and needs should be addressed to inform the future development of interventions combined with education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Mosor
- Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Günter Steiner
- Medical University of Vienna and Ludwig Boltzmann Cluster Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | | | | | | | - Mircia Dobrin
- The Romanian League Against Rheumatism, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Georg Schett
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias Englbrecht
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | | | - Ingvild Kjeken
- Oslo Metropolitan University and Diakonhjemmet Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Axel J Hueber
- Friedrich-Alexander University Erlangen-Nuremberg and Universitätsklinikum Erlangen, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Medical University of Vienna and Ludwig Boltzmann Cluster Arthritis and Rehabilitation, Vienna, Austria
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Simons G, Mahoney G, Wyatt N, Stack RJ, Raza K, Falahee M. P205 The potential role of pharmacy staff in reducing patient delay in consulting with symptoms of RA. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2020. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keaa111.200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
It has been well documented that patients with symptoms of RA often wait for a long time before consulting their GP. This delay is one of the main reasons why only a minority of RA patients are treated within the 3-month therapeutic window of opportunity. In previous research we have shown that people often do not perceive the initial symptoms of RA to be serious or worthy of urgent medical attention. 40% of respondents to a large-scale survey said they would visit a pharmacy for advice before or instead of visiting a GP following the onset of RA symptoms. Therefore, pharmacy staff appear to be well placed to signpost patients with suspect symptoms towards GP consultation. The current research explores the knowledge and perceptions of RA in a range of pharmacy staff and their views on identifying patients with inflammatory symptoms who would benefit from a GP consultation. This information could identify training needs and opportunities for positive intervention.
Methods
We conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews (face to face or by telephone) with pharmacy staff. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed, and the data were analysed by thematic analysis facilitated by NVIVO.
Results
A total of 19 pharmacy staff (10 males, 9 females) aged between 22 and 56 were interviewed. Interviewees had a variety of roles within the pharmacy including pharmacist or preregistration pharmacist and pharmacy assistants. Interviewees worked at either a (small) chain pharmacy or an independent pharmacy. Accurate knowledge of RA, the seriousness of the disease and knowledge of the importance of early treatment varied greatly amongst staff impacting on their advice given to patients. Further, although many pharmacy staff said they would suggest a GP visit if someone presented with joint swelling, pain and stiffness, others would advise self-management first and only suggest a GP visit if symptoms did not improve. Pharmacy staff indicated that although they felt that they were ideally placed to signpost people to appropriate care, there was a need for additional training (e.g. on how to identify synovial swelling on inspection of the hand joints) in order for them to distinguish the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis from those of non-inflammatory conditions and suggest appropriate care.
Conclusion
These interviews suggest that although some pharmacy staff already play a role in accurately signposting people with RA towards a GP visit others need further training. This training should enable them to confidently recognise the symptoms signs of RA and other Musculoskeletal conditions and understand that RA is a serious condition that needs rapid disease modifying treatment initiation and consequently that people need to see their GP promptly.
Disclosures
G. Simons None. G. Mahoney None. N. Wyatt None. R.J. Stack None. K. Raza Grants/research support; KR has received speaker fees/ honoraria from Abbvie, Sanofi, Lilly, UCB, BMS, Pfizer, Janssen and research grant funding from Pfizer Inc. M. Falahee None.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Georgia Mahoney
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Nicholas Wyatt
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
| | - Marie Falahee
- University of Birmingham, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, Birmingham, UNITED KINGDOM
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Birch R, Simons G, Wähämaa H, McGrath CM, Johansson EC, Skingle D, Bayliss K, Starling B, Gerlag DM, Buckley CD, Stack RJ, Raza K, Falahee M. Development and formative evaluation of patient research partner involvement in a multi-disciplinary European translational research project. Res Involv Engagem 2020; 6:6. [PMID: 32099665 PMCID: PMC7031919 DOI: 10.1186/s40900-020-0178-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2020] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
PLAIN ENGLISH SUMMARY Patient and public involvement (PPI) improves the quality of health research and ensures that research is relevant to patients' needs. Though PPI is increasingly evident in clinical and health services research, there are few examples in the research literature of effective PPI in translational and laboratory-based research. In this paper, we describe the development and evaluation of PPI in a multi-centre European project (EuroTEAM - Towards Early biomarkers in Arthritis Management) that included both translational and laboratory-based and psychosocial research. We found that although most PPI in EuroTEAM was centred around the psychosocial research, there were examples of PPI in the laboratory studies. As the project evolved, researchers became better at accommodating PPI and identifying PPI opportunities. It was generally agreed that PPI had a positive impact on the project overall, particularly on public engagement with the research. We concluded that the inclusion of both psychosocial and laboratory-based research in the same project facilitated PPI across all aspects of the research. In future projects, we would try to specify individual PPI activities in more detail at the project-planning stage, and better accommodate patient partners who are not native speakers of English. ABSTRACT Background Patient and public involvement (PPI) enhances research quality and relevance and is central to contemporary health policy. The value of PPI has been recognised in rheumatology research, though there are limited examples of PPI in basic and translational science. The EU FP7 funded 'EuroTEAM' (Towards Early biomarkers in Arthritis Management) project was established to develop biomarker-based approaches to predict the future development of rheumatoid arthritis and incorporated psychosocial research to investigate the perceptions of 'at risk' individuals about predictive testing, and to develop informational resources about rheumatoid arthritis (RA) risk. Patient involvement was central to EuroTEAM from the inception of the project. The objective of this paper is to describe the development of PPI in EuroTEAM, formatively assess the impact of PPI from the perspectives of researchers and patient research partners (PRPs), reflect on successes and lessons learned, and formulate recommendations to guide future projects.Methods Two mixed-methods surveys (for PRPs and researchers) and a teleconference were undertaken to assess the impact of PPI on individual work packages and on EuroTEAM overall.Results There was consensus about the positive impact of PPI on the research and on the experiences of those involved. In particular, the positive impact of PPI on the personal development of researchers, and on effective public engagement with EuroTEAM research were highlighted. Researchers described adapting their practice in future projects to facilitate PPI. Spin-off projects and ongoing collaborations between PRPs and researchers reflected the value of PPI to participants. PPI was more frequently integrated in psychosocial research, though examples of PPI in laboratory/translational science were also described. PRPs asked for more opportunities to contribute meaningfully to basic scientific research and for more extensive feedback on their contributions.Conclusions The findings were used to formulate recommendations to guide effective involvement of patients in future similar projects, including identifying specific training requirements for PRPs and researchers, the identification of PRP focused tasks/deliverables at the project planning stage, and supporting access to involvement for all PRPs. Importantly, the distinctive multidisciplinary approach of EuroTEAM, incorporating both basic science and psychosocial research, facilitated patient involvement in the project overall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Birch
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Heidi Wähämaa
- Rheumatology Unit, Department of Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet, SE-171 76 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catherine M. McGrath
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
| | - Eva C. Johansson
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, Stockholm, Sweden
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, London, UK
| | - Diana Skingle
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, Stockholm, Sweden
- EuroTEAM Patient Research Partners, London, UK
| | - Kerin Bayliss
- Public Programmes Team, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Bella Starling
- Public Programmes Team, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Danielle M. Gerlag
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Rheumatology, Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Centre, Academic Medical Centre/University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- RxCelerate Ltd, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, CB22 3AT UK
| | - Christopher D. Buckley
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
- Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology, University of Oxford, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7FY UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J. Stack
- Division of Psychology, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, NG1 4BU UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, B18 7QH, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
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Kumar K, Stack RJ, Adebajo A, Adams J. Health-care professionals' perceptions of interacting with patients of South Asian origin attending early inflammatory arthritis clinics. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2019; 3:rkz042. [PMID: 31768498 PMCID: PMC6862933 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkz042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2019] [Revised: 10/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim was to explore the perceptions of rheumatology health-care professionals (HCPs) of interacting with patients of South Asian origin attending early inflammatory arthritis clinics. Methods We used face-to-face semi-structured interviews, designed in partnership with a clinician partner, to interview 10 HCPs involved in the running of early inflammatory arthritis clinics across seven centres in the UK. Data were recorded, transcribed by an independent company and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Three emerging themes were identified that characterized consulting experiences of HCPs: varied approaches were used in early inflammatory arthritis clinic; the challenges for rheumatology HCPs in managing and delivering information to patients of South Asian origin in early inflammatory arthritis clinics; and moving towards good practice, the views on managing future patients of South Asian origin in early inflammatory arthritis clinics. Overall, HCPs found that they required additional skills to support the engagement and management for patients of South Asian origin living with inflammatory arthritis. The HCPs felt that they were less effective in addressing self-management issues for this patient group, and they found it difficult to determine adherence to medication. In such consultations, HCPs perceived that their own limitation of inadequate training contributed towards poor consultations. Conclusion For the first time, our data demonstrate that the management of patients of South Asian origin in early inflammatory arthritis clinics is under-served. To address this, HCPs have identified training needs to improve knowledge and skills in engaging with and supporting patients of South Asian origin. These findings provide a good direction for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanta Kumar
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham
| | - Ade Adebajo
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield
| | - Jo Adams
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Kumar K, Reehal J, Stack RJ, Adebajo A, Adams J. Experiences of South Asian patients in early inflammatory arthritis clinic: a qualitative interview study. Rheumatol Adv Pract 2019; 3:rkz017. [PMID: 31528840 PMCID: PMC6735789 DOI: 10.1093/rap/rkz017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Revised: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective The aim was to explore how UK South Asian patients living with RA interact with health care professionals and experience receiving health information in an early inflammatory arthritis clinic. Methods A semi-structured interview schedule, designed in conjunction with a patient partner, was used for face-to-face interviews. South Asian participants with RA were recruited from Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust. Data were recorded and transcribed by an independent company. Data were analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Fifteen participants were interviewed. Three predominant themes emerged around participants’ experiences and interaction with health care professionals in early inflammatory arthritis clinic. First, ‘the personal experiences of RA and cultural link to early inflammatory arthritis clinic’, where participants described the impact of RA as individuals and their altered roles within their cultural setting. Second, ‘experiences of interacting and receiving information in the early inflammatory arthritis clinic’, where participants described their limited engagement with health care professionals and the quality of information discussed in the clinic. Third, ‘views on future content for early inflammatory arthritis clinics’, where participants highlighted new innovative ideas to build on current practice. Conclusion We believe this to be the first study to generate insight into the experiences of South Asian patients of interacting with health care professionals while attending an early inflammatory arthritis clinic. Policy directives aimed at improving access to services and delivery of information for ethnic minority groups in early inflammatory arthritis clinics should include consideration of the different roles of cultures. Professionals should be cognizant of the factors that drive health inequalities and focus on improving service delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanta Kumar
- Insitute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Joti Reehal
- Insitute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham
| | - Ade Adebajo
- Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health, University of Sheffield, Sheffield
| | - Jo Adams
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Environment and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Simons G, Stack RJ, Stoffer-Marx M, Englbrecht M, Mosor E, Buckley CD, Kumar K, Hansson M, Hueber A, Stamm T, Falahee M, Raza K. Perceptions of first-degree relatives of patients with rheumatoid arthritis about lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions to reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis development: a qualitative interview study. BMC Rheumatol 2018; 2:31. [PMID: 30886981 PMCID: PMC6390593 DOI: 10.1186/s41927-018-0038-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is increasing interest in the identification of people at risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to monitor the emergence of early symptoms (and thus allow early therapy), offer lifestyle advice to reduce the impact of environmental risk factors and potentially offer preventive pharmacological treatment for those at high risk. Close biological relatives of people with RA are at an increased risk of developing RA and are therefore potential candidates for research studies, screening initiatives and preventive interventions. To ensure the success of approaches of this kind, a greater understanding of the perceptions of this group relating to preventive measures is needed. METHODS Twenty-four first-degree relatives of patients with an existing diagnosis of RA from the UK, three from Germany and seven from Austria (age: 21-67 years) took part in semi-structured interviews exploring their perceptions of RA risk, preventive medicine and lifestyle changes to reduce RA risk. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Many first-degree relatives indicated that they anticipated being happy to make lifestyle changes such as losing weight or changing their diet to modify their risk of developing RA. Participants further indicated that in order to make any lifestyle changes it would be useful to know their personal risk of developing RA. Others implied they would not contemplate making lifestyle changes, including stopping smoking, unless this would significantly reduce or eliminate their risk of developing RA. Many first-degree relatives had more negative perceptions about taking preventive medication to reduce their risk of RA, and listed concerns about potential side effects as one of the reasons for not wanting to take preventive medicines. Others would be more willing to consider drug interventions although some indicated that they would wish to wait until symptoms developed. CONCLUSIONS Information targeted at those considered to be at risk of RA should contain information about RA, the extent to which risk can be quantified at an individual level and how risk levels may differ depending on whether early symptoms are present. The benefits (and risks) of lifestyle changes and pharmacological interventions as potential preventive measures should be clearly described.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Institute for Inflammation and Aging, Rheumatology Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Institute for Inflammation and Aging, Rheumatology Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare St, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ UK
| | - Michaela Stoffer-Marx
- Section for Outcomes Research, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, BT88/E 031090 Vienna, Austria
- University of Applied Sciences FH Campus Wien, Vienna, 1100 Austria
| | - Matthias Englbrecht
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Internistisches Zentrum (INZ), Ulmenweg 18, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Erika Mosor
- Section for Outcomes Research, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, BT88/E 031090 Vienna, Austria
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Christopher D Buckley
- Institute for Inflammation and Aging, Rheumatology Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Arthritis Research UK Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis Centre of Excellence, MRC Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- The Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL UK
| | - Mats Hansson
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Box 564, SE-751 22 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Axel Hueber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Internistisches Zentrum (INZ), Ulmenweg 18, 91054 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tanja Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics, and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Spitalgasse 23, BT88/E 031090 Vienna, Austria
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie Falahee
- Institute for Inflammation and Aging, Rheumatology Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute for Inflammation and Aging, Rheumatology Research Group, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Arthritis Research UK Rheumatoid Arthritis Pathogenesis Centre of Excellence, MRC Arthritis Research UK Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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10
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van Beers-Tas MH, Ter Wee MM, van Tuyl LH, Maat B, Hoogland W, Hensvold AH, Catrina AI, Mosor E, Stamm TA, Finckh A, Courvoisier DS, Filer A, Sahbudin I, Stack RJ, Raza K, van Schaardenburg D. Initial validation and results of the Symptoms in Persons At Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis (SPARRA) questionnaire: a EULAR project. RMD Open 2018; 4:e000641. [PMID: 29862044 PMCID: PMC5976102 DOI: 10.1136/rmdopen-2017-000641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2017] [Revised: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 04/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives To describe the development and assess the psychometric properties of the novel 'Symptoms in Persons At Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis' (SPARRA) questionnaire in individuals at risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to quantify their symptoms. Methods The questionnaire items were derived from a qualitative study in patients with seropositive arthralgia. The questionnaire was administered to 219 individuals at risk of RA on the basis of symptoms or autoantibody positivity: 74% rheumatoid factor and/or anticitrullinated protein antibodies positive, 26% seronegative. Validity, reliability and responsiveness were assessed. Eighteen first degree relatives (FDR) of patients with RA were used for comparison. Results Face and content validity were high. The test-retest showed good agreement and reliability (1 week and 6 months). Overall, construct validity was low to moderate, with higher values for concurrent validity, suggesting that some questions reflect symptom content not captured with regular Visual Analogue Scale pain/well-being. Responsiveness was low (small subgroup). Finally, the burden of symptoms in both seronegative and seropositive at risk individuals was high, with pain, stiffness and fatigue being the most common ones with a major impact on daily functioning. The FDR cohort (mostly healthy individuals) showed a lower burden of symptoms; however, the distribution of symptoms was similar. Conclusions The SPARRA questionnaire has good psychometric properties and can add information to currently available clinical measures in individuals at risk of RA. The studied group had a high burden and impact of symptoms. Future studies should evaluate whether SPARRA data can improve the prediction of RA in at risk individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marian H van Beers-Tas
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marieke M Ter Wee
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lilian H van Tuyl
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Bertha Maat
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wijnanda Hoogland
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Erika Mosor
- Section for Outcomes Research, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Tanja A Stamm
- Section for Outcomes Research, Center for Medical Statistics, Informatics and Intelligent Systems, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Axel Finckh
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Medical Specialties, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Delphine S Courvoisier
- Division of Rheumatology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland.,Department of Medical Specialties, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Andrew Filer
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ilfita Sahbudin
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK.,Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dirkjan van Schaardenburg
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Amsterdam Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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11
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Kumar K, Raizada SR, Mallen CD, Stack RJ. UK-South Asian patients' experiences of and satisfaction toward receiving information about biologics in rheumatoid arthritis. Patient Prefer Adherence 2018; 12:489-497. [PMID: 29670337 PMCID: PMC5894650 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s153741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes painful joint inflammation and is incurable, but treatments control RA. Drug regimens are complex, and patients often do not take their medication as expected. Poor medication adherence can lead to poorly controlled disease and worse patient outcomes. Biologics treatments are expensive and require full engagement from patients. We have previously shown that patients from Black ethnic minority backgrounds do not fully engage into treatment plan. This study explored the patients' experiences in and satisfaction toward receiving information about biologics and future support preferences in South Asian patients with RA. METHODS Twenty South Asian patients with RA from Royal Wolverhampton Hospitals NHS Trust and Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust participated in individual semistructured interviews. Interviews were transcribed and data were analyzed by using thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Four overarching themes describe the patients' experience in and satisfaction toward receiving information on biologics: 1) current provision of information regarding the "biologics journey" and understanding of RA: in this theme, non-English-speaking patients expressed heightened anxiety about stepping up to biologics; 2) experience and perceptions of biologics: many patients were positive about the biologic experience; however, there were patient-perceived delays in getting on to the biologics; 3) factors influencing willingness to try biologics: in this theme, a number of factors were identified including seeking advice from doctors abroad; and 4) recommendations on the desired information to fully understand the use of biologics: some patients valued group discussions, while others suggested receiving RA and biologic information through a video interaction. CONCLUSION This novel study provides insight into South Asian RA patients' experiences in and satisfaction toward receiving information about biologics. South Asian patients with RA reported a range of perceptions about biologics and support preferences, many of which may not be shared with the non-South Asian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanta Kumar
- Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Central Manchester University Hospitals Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
- Correspondence: Kanta Kumar, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Sciences, The University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PL, UK Email,
| | | | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Primary Care Sciences, Keele University, Staffordshire, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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12
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Stack RJ, Southworth S, Fisher BA, Barone F, Buckley CD, Rauz S, Bowman SJ. A qualitative exploration of physical, mental and ocular fatigue in patients with primary Sjögren's Syndrome. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0187272. [PMID: 29088284 PMCID: PMC5663496 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0187272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (pSS) affects exocrine glands such as those producing the tear film, leading to dry and painful eyes, but is also associated with fatigue. The experience of fatigue in pSS, and its relationship with sicca symptoms, is poorly understood. Methods Twenty people diagnosed with pSS were recruited to participate in a semi-structured qualitative interview about their symptoms experience. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. Results People with pSS described physical tiredness, mental fatigue and ocular fatigue. Mental fatigue was characterised by difficulties in attention, particularly, the ability to follow conversations and short-term memory problems. Participants linked their experience of fatigue to feeling of depression, frustration, irritation and anxiety, and therefore, fatigue was suggested to have had a large impact on their psychological well-being. People with pSS also described a range of ocular symptoms including pain, dryness, and itching, which were compounded by fatigue. For some, eye fatigue was pervasive, and daily activities involving the eyes such as reading, using the computer and driving were impaired. In some cases, the level of ocular discomfort was so severe it prevented sleep, which in turn impacted on general fatigue levels. Conclusions People with pSS experience fatigue in a range of ways; physical, mental and ocular fatigue were described. Fatigue was suggested to exacerbate other ocular symptoms, posed serious physical limitations and caused psychological distress. Further research into the nature of fatigue and ocular symptoms in pSS is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Sue Southworth
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin A. Fisher
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Francesca Barone
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher D. Buckley
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Saaeha Rauz
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Academic Unit of Ophthalmology, Birmingham and Midland Eye Centre, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Simon J. Bowman
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Rheumatology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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13
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Falahee M, Simons G, Buckley CD, Hansson M, Stack RJ, Raza K. Patients' Perceptions of Their Relatives' Risk of Developing Rheumatoid Arthritis and of the Potential for Risk Communication, Prediction, and Modulation. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2017; 69:1558-1565. [DOI: 10.1002/acr.23179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2016] [Revised: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/13/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Christopher D. Buckley
- University of Birmingham, and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust; Birmingham UK
| | | | - Rebecca J. Stack
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, and Trent University; Nottingham UK
| | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham, and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust; Birmingham UK
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14
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Simons G, Lumley S, Falahee M, Kumar K, Mallen CD, Stack RJ, Raza K. The pathway to consultation for rheumatoid arthritis: exploring anticipated actions between the onset of symptoms and face-to-face encounter with a healthcare professional. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2017; 18:258. [PMID: 28615051 PMCID: PMC5471998 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-017-1619-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background When people first experience symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) they often delay seeking medical attention resulting in delayed diagnosis and treatment. This research assesses behaviours people might engage in prior to, or instead of, seeking medical attention and compares these with behaviours related to illnesses which are better publicised. Methods Thirty-one qualitative interviews with members of the general public explored intended actions in relation to two hypothetical RA vignettes (with and without joint swelling) and two non-RA vignettes (bowel cancer and angina). The interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. Analysis focused on intended information gathering and other self-management behaviours in the interval between symptom onset and help-seeking. Results Participants were more likely to envision self-managing symptoms when confronted with the symptoms of RA compared to the other vignettes. Participants would look for information to share responsibility for decision making and get advice and reassurance. Others saw no need for information seeking, perceived the information available as untrustworthy or, particularly in the case of bowel cancer and angina, would not want to delay seeking medical attention. Participants further anticipated choosing not to self-manage the symptoms; actively monitoring the symptoms (angina/ bowel cancer) or engaging in self-treatment of symptom(s). Discussion These results help define targets for interventions to increase appropriate help-seeking behaviour for people experiencing the initial symptoms of RA, such as educational interventions directed at allied healthcare professionals from whom new patients may seek information on self-management techniques, or the development of authoritative and accessible informational resources for the general public.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenda Simons
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Sophie Lumley
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Falahee
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- College of Business Law & Social Sciences, School of Social Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK; Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, The University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK; Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals National Health Service (NHS) Trust, Birmingham, UK
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15
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Simons G, Belcher J, Morton C, Kumar K, Falahee M, Mallen CD, Stack RJ, Raza K. Symptom Recognition and Perceived Urgency of Help-Seeking for Rheumatoid Arthritis and Other Diseases in the General Public: A Mixed Method Approach. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2017; 69:633-641. [PMID: 27389847 DOI: 10.1002/acr.22979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2016] [Revised: 06/06/2016] [Accepted: 06/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Clinical outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are improved if the disease is treated early. However, treatment is often significantly delayed as a result of delayed help-seeking by patients who fail to recognize its symptoms or the need for rapid medical attention. Two studies were conducted to investigate the role of symptom recognition in help-seeking for the symptoms of RA, and compared this to symptom recognition and help-seeking in angina and bowel cancer. METHODS A qualitative interview study with 31 individuals and a survey of 1,088 members of the general public (all without RA) were conducted. Both studies used vignettes describing the symptoms of RA, bowel cancer, and angina. Participants made causal attributions and rated the perceived seriousness of the symptoms and the urgency with which they would seek medical help if confronted with these symptoms. RESULTS Only a small proportion of participants in both studies recognized the symptoms of RA, whereas the symptoms of bowel cancer and angina were readily recognized by many participants and considered to be more serious and to require more rapid medical attention (Z = 14.7-34.2, P < 0.001). CONCLUSION Accurate symptom attribution and the perception that symptoms are indicative of a serious underlying condition are both important drivers for rapid help-seeking. In the case of angina and bowel cancer, recent campaigns have promoted not only recognition of symptoms and their seriousness, but also emphasized the consequences of not seeking timely help. Our results suggest that these consequences should also be addressed in any public health campaign for RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kanta Kumar
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, and University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | | | - Rebecca J Stack
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, and Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham, and Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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16
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van Tuyl LHD, Stack RJ, Sloots M, van de Stadt LA, Hoogland W, Maat B, Raza K, van Schaardenburg D. Impact of Symptoms on Daily Life in People at Risk of Rheumatoid Arthritis. Musculoskeletal Care 2016; 14:169-173. [PMID: 26681409 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lilian H D van Tuyl
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
- Division of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Maurits Sloots
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade and Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Lotte A van de Stadt
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wijnanda Hoogland
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade and Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Bertha Maat
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade and Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Karim Raza
- Rheumatology Research Group, Institute of Inflammation and Ageing, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospital NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Dirkjan van Schaardenburg
- Amsterdam Rheumatology and Immunology Center, Reade and Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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17
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Stack RJ, Stoffer M, Englbrecht M, Mosor E, Falahee M, Simons G, Smolen J, Schett G, Buckley CD, Kumar K, Hansson M, Hueber A, Stamm T, Raza K. Perceptions of risk and predictive testing held by the first-degree relatives of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in England, Austria and Germany: a qualitative study. BMJ Open 2016; 6:e010555. [PMID: 27357193 PMCID: PMC4932277 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2015-010555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Revised: 02/18/2016] [Accepted: 04/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The family members of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are at increased risk of developing RA and are potential candidates for predictive testing. This study explored the perceptions of first-degree relatives of people with RA about being at risk of RA and engaging in predictive testing. METHODS 34 first-degree relatives (siblings and offspring) of patients with RA from the UK, Germany and Austria participated in semistructured interviews about their perceptions of RA risk and the prospect of predictive testing. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS First-degree relatives were aware of their susceptibility to RA, but were unsure of the extent of their risk. When considering their future risk, some relatives were concerned about the potential impact that RA would have on their lives. Relatives were concerned that knowing their actual risk would increase their anxiety and would affect decisions about their future. Also, relatives were concerned about the levels of uncertainty associated with predictive testing. Those in favour of knowing their future risk felt that they would need additional support to understand the risk information and cope with the emotional impact of this information. CONCLUSIONS Identifying individuals at risk of RA may allow targeted interventions to reduce the risk and consequence of future disease; however, relatives have concerns about predictive testing and risk information. The development of strategies to quantify and communicate risk needs to take these views into account and incorporate approaches to mitigate concerns and minimise the psychological impact of risk information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Institute for Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Division of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Michaela Stoffer
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
- University of Applied Sciences for Health Professionals, Upper Austria, Austria
| | - Mathias Englbrecht
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Erika Mosor
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marie Falahee
- Institute for Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Institute for Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Josef Smolen
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Georg Schett
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Chris D Buckley
- Institute for Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Division of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, School of Nursing, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Mats Hansson
- Centre for Research Ethics and Bioethics, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Axel Hueber
- Department of Internal Medicine 3, University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tanja Stamm
- Division of Rheumatology, Department of Internal Medicine III, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Karim Raza
- Institute for Inflammation and Ageing, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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18
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Simons G, Mason A, Falahee M, Kumar K, Mallen CD, Raza K, Stack RJ. Qualitative Exploration of Illness Perceptions of Rheumatoid Arthritis in the General Public. Musculoskeletal Care 2016; 15:13-22. [PMID: 26833593 PMCID: PMC4903170 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Treating patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) within three months of symptom onset leads to significantly improved outcomes. However, many people delay seeking medical attention. In order to understand the reasons for this delay, it is important to have a thorough understanding of public perceptions about RA. The current study investigated these perceptions using the Self‐Regulation Model (SRM) as a framework to explain how health behaviour is influenced by illness perceptions (prototypes) through qualitative interviews with 15 members of the public without RA. Interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed and analysed using framework analysis based on SRM illness perceptions. Both accurate and inaccurate perceptions about the identity, causes, consequences, controllability and timeline of RA were identified. This highlights opportunities to enhance public knowledge about RA. These findings further support the utility of exploring prototypical beliefs of illness, suggesting their potential role in influencing help‐seeking behaviours and identifying probable drivers/barriers to early presentation. © 2016 The Authors Musculoskeletal Care Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Mason
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Kanta Kumar
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK.,University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Karim Raza
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK
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19
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multisystem, inflammatory disorder associated with increased levels of morbidity and mortality. While much research into the condition is conducted in the secondary care setting, routinely collected primary care databases provide an important source of research data. This study aimed to update an algorithm to define RA that was previously developed and validated in the General Practice Research Database (GPRD). METHODS The original algorithm consisted of two criteria. Individuals meeting at least one were considered to have RA. Criterion 1: ≥ 1 RA Read code and a disease modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) without an alternative indication. Criterion 2: ≥ 2 RA Read codes, with at least one 'strong' code and no alternative diagnoses. Lists of codes for consultations and prescriptions were obtained from the authors of the original algorithm where these were available, or compiled based on the original description and clinical knowledge. 4161 people with a first Read code for RA between 1 January 2010 and 31 December 2012 were selected from the Clinical Practice Research Datalink (CPRD, successor to the GPRD), and the criteria applied. RESULTS Code lists were updated for the introduction of new Read codes and biological DMARDs. 3577/4161 (86%) of people met the updated algorithm for RA, compared to 61% in the original development study. 62.8% of people fulfilled both Criterion 1 and Criterion 2. CONCLUSIONS Those wishing to define RA in the CPRD, should consider using this updated algorithm, rather than a single RA code, if they wish to identify only those who are most likely to have RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Muller
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Samantha L Hider
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, School of Immunity and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, School of Immunity and Infection, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Richard A Hayward
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Institute for Primary Care & Health Sciences, Keele University, Keele, UK
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Tiwana R, Rowland J, Fincher M, Raza K, Stack RJ. Social interactions at the onset of rheumatoid arthritis and their influence on help-seeking behaviour: A qualitative exploration. Br J Health Psychol 2015; 20:648-61. [PMID: 25728224 DOI: 10.1111/bjhp.12134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2014] [Revised: 01/05/2015] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore how social interactions at the onset of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) influence help-seeking behaviour from the perspectives of those with RA and their significant others (family and friends). METHODS Nineteen semi-structured qualitative interviews were undertaken with people recently diagnosed with RA and their significant others. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Significant others' initial appraisals of symptoms led them to provide practical support with daily activities rather than advice to seek help. People with RA described difficulties in communicating the severity of their symptoms and often attempted to hide their symptoms from others. Significant others also reacted negatively, expressing disbelief and dismissing symptoms. On occasion, early symptoms were even described as the catalyst for the breakdown of relationships. On reflection, significant others expressed guilt about their initial reactions and wished that they had recognized the need for intervention earlier. When symptoms had advanced and were more obvious, significant others often strongly advised that help should be sought and, in some cases, physically escorted the patient to their medical appointment. In many instances, people with RA described significant others as the catalyst for eventually seeking help. CONCLUSIONS Significant others play an important role in influencing help-seeking behaviour; this has implications for theoretical models of help-seeking and the development of help-seeking interventions. A negative consequence of social interactions resulted from a lack of understanding and knowledge about RA among significant others, highlighting the need for greater public awareness about the early symptoms of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John Rowland
- Patient Research Partner, Birmingham Rheumatology Research Patient Partnership, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Marie Fincher
- Patient Research Partner, Birmingham Rheumatology Research Patient Partnership, University of Birmingham, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, UK.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rebecca J Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, UK.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Deighton C, Kiely P, Shaw KL, Booth A, Kumar K, Thomas S, Rowan I, Horne R, Nightingale P, Herron-Marx S, Jinks C, Raza K. The development and initial validation of a questionnaire to measure help-seeking behaviour in patients with new onset rheumatoid arthritis. Health Expect 2014; 18:2340-55. [PMID: 24889289 DOI: 10.1111/hex.12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is vital. However, people often delay in seeking help at symptom onset. An assessment of the reasons behind patient delay is necessary to develop interventions to promote rapid consultation. OBJECTIVE Using a mixed methods design, we aimed to develop and test a questionnaire to assess the barriers to help seeking at RA onset. DESIGN Questionnaire items were extracted from previous qualitative studies. Fifteen people with a lived experience of arthritis participated in focus groups to enhance the questionnaire's face validity. The questionnaire was also reviewed by groups of multidisciplinary health-care professionals. A test-retest survey of 41 patients with newly presenting RA or unclassified arthritis assessed the questionnaire items' intraclass correlations. RESULTS During focus groups, participants rephrased questions, added questions and deleted items not relevant to the questionnaire's aims. Participants organized items into themes: early symptom experience, initial reactions to symptoms, self-management behaviours, causal beliefs, involvement of significant others, pre-diagnosis knowledge about RA, direct barriers to seeking help and relationship with GP. The test-retest survey identified seven items (out of 79) with low intraclass correlations which were removed from the final questionnaire. CONCLUSION The involvement of people with a lived experience of arthritis and multidisciplinary health-care professionals in the preliminary validation of the DELAY (delays in evaluating arthritis early) questionnaire has enriched its development. Preliminary assessment established its reliability. The DELAY questionnaire provides a tool for researchers to evaluate individual, cultural and health service barriers to help-seeking behaviour at RA onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | | | - Chris Deighton
- Department of Rheumatology, Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Patrick Kiely
- Department of Rheumatology, St Georges Healthcare Trust, London, UK
| | - Karen L Shaw
- School of Health and Population Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alison Booth
- Department of Rheumatology, Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Susan Thomas
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Ian Rowan
- Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rob Horne
- School of Pharmacy, University of London, London, UK
| | - Peter Nightingale
- Wolfson Computer Laboratory, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Sandy Herron-Marx
- Faculty of Health and Social Care, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK
| | - Clare Jinks
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, Keele University, Staffs, UK
| | | | - Karim Raza
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, School of Infection and Immunity, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.,Department of Rheumatology, Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Stack RJ, van Tuyl LHD, Sloots M, van de Stadt LA, Hoogland W, Maat B, Mallen CD, Tiwana R, Raza K, van Schaardenburg D. Symptom complexes in patients with seropositive arthralgia and in patients newly diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis: a qualitative exploration of symptom development. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2014; 53:1646-53. [PMID: 24729397 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to explore symptoms and symptom development during the earliest phases of RA in patients with seropositive arthralgia and patients newly diagnosed with RA. METHODS Interviews were conducted with 15 seropositive patients (anti-CCP positive, and often with arthralgia) and 11 newly presenting RA patients [classified according to the 2010 ACR/European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) criteria]. Feedback procedures shared the experiences of seropositive arthralgia patients with early RA patients and vice versa. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS Symptoms common to both groups included joint pain, psychological distress, muscle cramps, abnormal skin sensations, stiffness, loss of motor control, weakness, fatigue and sleeping difficulties. Also, patterns of symptom evolution and the order of symptom development were described. Seropositive arthralgia patients described pain as annoying, while RA patients described how the severity of pain intensified before diagnosis, to the point where symptoms were psychologically distressing. Patients with seropositive arthralgia described reddening of the skin and burning sensations that they felt were indicative of the onset of swelling. Intense pain appeared to precede the onset of swelling for those with RA, which was often palindromic and travelled between joints until it later became persistent. CONCLUSION This study highlights the breadth of symptoms that constitute the earliest phases of RA. Further research is needed to develop measures of symptom patterns and clusters to allow the predictive utility of symptoms to be assessed and to allow the integration of aspects of the patient's history into evidence-based investigative and management algorithms for use in primary and secondary care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Lilian H D van Tuyl
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.
| | - Maurits Sloots
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Lotte A van de Stadt
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Wijnanda Hoogland
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Bertha Maat
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Rumandeep Tiwana
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Dirkjan van Schaardenburg
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK.Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK, Department of Rheumatology, VU University Medical Center, Jan van Breemen Research Institute
- Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands and Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Stoke-on-Trent, UK
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Stack RJ, Mallen CD, Jinks C, Nightingale P, Shaw K, Herron-Marx S, Horne R, Kiely P, Deighton C, Raza K. P1. Delays Between the Onset of Symptoms and First Rheumatology Consultation in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A National Survey. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu088.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
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Tiwana R, Raza K, Stack RJ. 158. Social Interactions at the Onset of Rheumatoid Arthritis and their Influence on Help-Seeking Behaviour: A Qualitative Exploration. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu106.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Gordon C, Stack RJ, Robinson M, Raza K, Awad I, Grindulis K, Bacon P. O25. The Impact of a Community Based Intervention for People with Arthritis on Quality of Life and Health Service Utilization. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu090.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Simons G, Mallen CD, Kumar K, Stack RJ, Raza K. 166. Drivers of and Barriers to Help Seeking in Individuals with the Symptoms of Early Rheumatoid Arthritis. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2014. [DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keu106.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Stack RJ, Llewellyn Z, Deighton C, Kiely P, Mallen CD, Raza K. General practitioners' perspectives on campaigns to promote rapid help-seeking behaviour at the onset of rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Prim Health Care 2014; 32:37-43. [PMID: 24635577 PMCID: PMC4137901 DOI: 10.3109/02813432.2014.900239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore general practitioners' (GPs') perspectives on public health campaigns to encourage people with the early symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) to seek medical help rapidly. DESIGN Nineteen GPs participated in four semi-structured focus groups. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using thematic analysis. RESULTS GPs recognised the need for the early treatment of RA and identified that facilitating appropriate access to care was important. However, not all held the view that a delay in help seeking was a clinically significant issue. Furthermore, many were concerned that the early symptoms of RA were often non-specific, and that current knowledge about the nature of symptoms at disease onset was inadequate to inform the content of a help-seeking campaign. They argued that a campaign might not be able to specifically target those who need to present urgently. Poorly designed campaigns were suggested to have a negative impact on GPs' workloads, and would "clog up" the referral pathway for genuine cases of RA. CONCLUSIONS GPs were supportive of strategies to improve access to Rheumatological care and increase public awareness of RA symptoms. However, they have identified important issues that need to be considered in developing a public health campaign that forms part of an overall strategy to reduce time to treatment for patients with new onset RA. This study highlights the value of gaining GPs' perspectives before launching health promotion campaigns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J. Stack
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Zara Llewellyn
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Chris Deighton
- Department of Rheumatology, Derby Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Derby, UK
| | - Patrick Kiely
- Department of Rheumatology, St Georges Healthcare Trust, London, UK
| | | | - Karim Raza
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Stack RJ, Sahni M, Mallen CD, Raza K. Symptom complexes at the earliest phases of rheumatoid arthritis: a synthesis of the qualitative literature. Arthritis Care Res (Hoboken) 2013; 65:1916-26. [PMID: 23926091 PMCID: PMC4030621 DOI: 10.1002/acr.22097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2013] [Accepted: 07/30/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Understanding the features and patterns of symptoms that characterize the earliest stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is of considerable importance if patients are to be identified and started on treatment early. However, little is known about the characteristics of symptoms at the onset of a disease that eventually progresses to RA. METHODS A systematic review of qualitative peer-reviewed publications was conducted to identify the earliest symptoms associated with the onset of RA. A total of 1,736 abstracts were searched to identify relevant publications. Twenty-six publications were identified, assessed for quality, and subjected to analysis informed by thematic and grounded theory frameworks. RESULTS Several interacting themes describing the early symptoms of RA were identified, including swelling, pain and tenderness, stiffness, fatigue and weakness, and the emotional impact of symptoms. For each symptom, different and evolving intensities were described; in some cases, patterns of symptom onset and symptom complexes at the onset of RA were highlighted. Importantly, this review has emphasized major deficiencies in the literature. None of the studies reviewed originally aimed to explore symptoms at RA onset (often discussions about symptom onset were secondary to the study's primary aim). Also, many of the articles identified sampled people diagnosed with RA many years previously, making their recollection of symptoms at onset less reliable. CONCLUSION In order for clinicians to fully understand the earliest phases of disease, the nature of symptoms at onset needs to be understood. The current work represents a useful starting point, but this area needs further qualitative investigation, followed by quantitative explorations of symptom clusters and their associated features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust and Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of BirminghamBirmingham, UK
| | - Melanie Sahni
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS TrustBirmingham, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of KeeleStoke-on-Trent, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust and Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of BirminghamBirmingham, UK
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Stack RJ, Simons G, Kumar K, Mallen CD, Raza K. Patient delays in seeking help at the onset of rheumatoid arthritis: the problem, its causes and potential solutions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.2217/ahe.13.42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease for which early treatment is vital to limit long-term joint damage. However, individuals often delay seeking medical help at the onset of RA symptoms. The early interpretation of symptoms and the process of making sense of symptoms impacts on both help-seeking decision-making and self-management. Furthermore, the general public’s perceptions and knowledge of RA may also affect the way that symptoms are interpreted. Examining the psychology behind early-symptom interpretation, the barriers to help-seeking behavior and investigating the public’s understanding of RA, can help us understand how decisions are made and guide us in developing interventions that encourage individuals to seek help promptly at the onset of RA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK.
| | - Gwenda Simons
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Kanta Kumar
- Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Christian D Mallen
- Arthritis Research UK Primary Care Centre, University of Keele, Keele, UK
| | - Karim Raza
- Sandwell & West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Translational Inflammation Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
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Stack RJ, Shaw K, Mallen C, Herron-Marx S, Horne R, Raza K. Delays in help seeking at the onset of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic synthesis of qualitative literature. Ann Rheum Dis 2011; 71:493-7. [DOI: 10.1136/ard.2011.155416] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
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Stack RJ, Bundy C, Elliott RA, New JP, Gibson JM, Noyce PR. Patient perceptions of treatment and illness when prescribed multiple medicines for co-morbid type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Metab Syndr Obes 2011; 4:127-35. [PMID: 21779144 PMCID: PMC3138144 DOI: 10.2147/dmso.s17444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Illness and treatment perceptions are vital for people self-managing co-morbid conditions with associated cardiovascular disease, such as type 2 diabetes (T2D). However, perceptions of a co-morbid condition and the use of multiple medicines have yet to be researched. This study investigated the illness and treatment perceptions of people with co-morbid T2D. The Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire (repeated for T2D, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia) and the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire Specific Concerns Scales (repeated for Oral hypoglycemic agents, anti-hypertensive medicines, and statins) were sent to 480 people managing co-morbid T2D. Data on the number of medicines prescribed were collected from medical records. Significantly different perceptions were found across the illnesses. The strongest effect was for personal control; the greatest control reported for T2D. Illness perceptions of T2D differed significantly from perceptions about hyperlipidemia. Furthermore, illness perceptions of T2D also differed from perceptions of hypertension with the exception of perceptions of illness severity. Hypertension and hyperlipidemia shared similar perceptions about comprehensibility, concerns, personal control, and timeline. Significant differences were found for beliefs about treatment necessity, but no difference was found for treatment concerns. When the number of medicines was taken as a between-subjects factor, only intentional non-adherence, treatment necessity beliefs, and perceptions of illness timeline were accounted for. Co-morbid illness and treatment perceptions are complex, often vary between illnesses, and can be influenced by the number of medicines prescribed. Further research should investigate relationships between co-morbid illness and treatment perception structures and self-management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Correspondence: Rebecca Stack, School of Immunity and Infection, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK, Tel +44 121 4146787, Fax +44 121 4146794, Email
| | - Chris Bundy
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - John P New
- Salford Royal Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | | | - Peter R Noyce
- School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester UK
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Abstract
Ruminococcus albus 8 was cultured with isolated alfalfa cell walls as the carbon source. The culture broth was assayed for muralytic enzyme activities. The effect, with respect to the production of such muralytic enzymes, of growing the microorganism on different carbon sources was also investigated. Also, the rates of solubilization and utilization by R. albus of individual alfalfa cell wall sugars during a 96-h growth period were examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- L C Greve
- Departments of Pomology and Bacteriology, University of California, Davis, California 95616
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Abstract
Phenylpropanoic acid accounted for part of the stimulatory effect of rumen fluid on the rate of growth and of cellulose digestion by cultures of Ruminococcus albus strain 8 grown on a chemically defined medium. As little as 3 muM concentration gave maximum response.
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Affiliation(s)
- R E Hungate
- Department of Bacteriology, University of California, Davis, California 95616
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Abstract
The morphology and cellulases of Ruminococcus albus 8 were markedly affected by the inclusion of 3-phenylpropanoic acid (PPA) in a defined growth medium. PPA-grown bacteria produced substantial quantities of cell-bound cellulase, as well as a very high-molecular-weight extracellular enzyme and lesser amounts of two low-molecular-weight enzymes. PPA-deprived bacteria produced greater total amounts of cellulase, but all of it exists in soluble, low-molecular-weight forms. Sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed that the availability of PPA did not affect the kinds of proteins produced, but the distribution of two major proteins between cells and supernatant was PPA dependent. These two proteins (85 and 102 kilodaltons) were primarily associated with the cells of PPA-grown bacteria but were found chiefly in the supernatants of PPA-deprived cultures. Examination of thin sections of PPA-grown R. albus 8 by transmission electron microscopy showed a lobed ruthenium red-staining capsule surrounding the cell wall, as well as small vesicular structures (diameter, 0.05 to 0.06 mum) which appeared to aggregate into larger spherical units (diameter, 0.2 to 0.3 mum). In contrast, thin sections of PPA-deprived cells were devoid of vesicles and showed little or no capsule surrounding the cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Stack
- Department of Bacteriology, University of California, Davis, California 95616
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Stack RJ, Bundy CE, Elliott RA, New JP, Gibson M, Noyce PR. Intentional and unintentional non-adherence in community dwelling people with type 2 diabetes: the effect of varying numbers of medicines. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1177/1474651409357034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
People with type 2 diabetes are often prescribed multi-medicines which can be difficult to manage. Non-adherence to medicines can be intentional (e.g. active decision) or unintentional (e.g. forgetting). The objective of this study was to measure intentional and unintentional non-adherence to differing numbers of medicines prescribed in type 2 diabetes. A cross-sectional survey using the Morisky medication adherence scale (with intentional and unintentional non-adherence subscales) was completed by 480 people prescribed oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs), antihypertensive agents and statins. A within-subject analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed that intentional non-adherence did not vary between OADs, anti-hypertensives and statins. Intentional non-adherence to statins significantly increased when the number of medicines prescribed was included as a between-subjects variable (p<0.05). Another within-subject ANOVA on unintentional non-adherence found a significant difference between OADs, anti-hypertensives and statins; unintentional non-adherence to OADs was significantly higher (p<0.05). When the number of medicines was added as a between-subject variable unintentional non-adherence was associated with higher numbers of medicines. This study shows the difference between intentional and unintentional non-adherence behaviours, and the effect that varying numbers of medicines can have on these behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Stack
- School of Social Work, Psychology and Public Health, Salford University, Salford, UK,
| | - Christine E Bundy
- NIHR School of Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - John P New
- Salford Royal Foundation Trust, Salford, UK
| | | | - Peter R Noyce
- School of Pharmacy, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Abstract
AIM Multiple medicines are typically prescribed for patients with Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and cardiovascular disease (CVD). Non-adherence to medicines can arise for those who self-manage the complex regimens typical of T2D and CVD. Perceptions about treatment and illness are probable drivers of adherence and self-management behaviours. However, few studies have explored perceptions about multiple medicines and none has examined the complexities of managing medicines used in T2D and CVD. We explored perceptions towards multiple medicines expressed by people managing co-morbid T2D and CVD. METHOD Nineteen adults managing multiple medicines for T2D and CVD participated in semi-structured interviews. The interviews were analysed using a modified grounded theory framework. RESULTS Participants were sceptical about the prescription of additional medicines, particularly CVD medicines. Often medicines for T2D management were thought to be more important than medicines prescribed for CVD management. Lifestyle change was thought to be a way of reducing CVD risk and this was related to the lower status given to CVD medication. Lipid-lowering medicines were often thought to be the least important CVD medication prescribed, with some participants considering cessation of medicines to test their necessity. CONCLUSIONS Despite evidence on the severity of macrovascular complications in T2D being available, participants in this study undervalued their CVD medications. Survey research is needed to assess how widely held these beliefs are and whether these beliefs influence non-adherence. Future research should explore how healthcare professionals can best address such beliefs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Stack
- Drug Usage and Pharmacy Practice Group, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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37
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Abstract
The structure of the Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strain CF3 capsular polysaccharide has been investigated mainly by sugar and methylation analyses, Smith degradation, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. The results indicate that the polysaccharide is composed of pentasaccharide repeating units having the following structure: -->4)-beta-L-Altp-(1-->4)-beta-D-Glcp-(1-->3)-4-O-[(R)-1-carboxyet hyl]-beta- D-Glcp-(1-->4)-6-O-[(R)-1-carboxyethyl]-alpha-D-Galp-(1--> 2 increases 1 beta-D-Glcp.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ferreira
- Cátedra de Farmacognosia y Productos Naturales, Facultad de Química, Montevideo, Uruguay
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38
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Lapierre F, Holme K, Lam L, Tressler RJ, Storm N, Wee J, Stack RJ, Castellot J, Tyrrell DJ. Chemical modifications of heparin that diminish its anticoagulant but preserve its heparanase-inhibitory, angiostatic, anti-tumor and anti-metastatic properties. Glycobiology 1996; 6:355-66. [PMID: 8724143 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/6.3.355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Structural features of heparin potentially important for heparanase-inhibitory activity were examined by measuring the ability of heparin derivatives to affect the degradation of [3H]acetylated heparan sulphate by tumor cell heparanases. IC50 values were determined using an assay which distinguished degraded from undegraded substrate by precipitation of the latter with cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC). Removal of heparin's 2-O-sulphate and 3-O-sulphate groups enhanced heparanase-inhibitory activity (50%). Removal of its carboxyl groups slightly lowered the activity (18%), while combining the treatments abolished the activity. At least one negative charge on the iduronic acid/idose moiety, therefore, is necessary for heparanase-inhibitory activity. Replacing heparin's N-sulphate groups with N-acetyl groups reduced its activity (37%). Comparing this heparin derivative with 2,3-O-desulphated heparin, the placement of sulphate groups appears important for activity since the two structures have similar nominal linear charge density. In addition, unsubstituted uronic acids are nonessential for inhibition since their modification (periodate-oxidation/borohydride-reduction) enhanced rather than reduced heparanase-inhibitory activity. The most effective heparanase inhibitors (2,3-O-desulphated heparin, and [periodate-oxidized, borohydride-reduced] heparin) were tested in the chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) bioassay for anti-angiogenic activity and found to be at least as efficacious as heparin. 2,3-O-desulphated heparin also significantly decreased the tumor growth of a subcutaneous human pancreatic (Ca-Pan-2) adenocarcinoma in nude mice and prolonged the survival times of C57BL/6N mice in a B16-F10 melanoma experimental lung metastasis assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Lapierre
- Glycomed Incorporated, Alameda, CA 94501, USA
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39
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Ferreira F, Andersson M, Kenne L, Cotta MA, Stack RJ. Structural studies of the extracellular polysaccharide from Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strain 49. Carbohydr Res 1995; 278:143-53. [PMID: 8536266 DOI: 10.1016/0008-6215(95)00234-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
The structure of Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strain 49 capsular polysaccharide has been investigated mainly by sugar and methylation analysis, partial chemical degradations, NMR spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry. The results suggest that the polysaccharide is composed of pentasaccharide repeating units having the following structure. [formula: see text] The polysaccharide contains O-acetyl groups, one of which is substituted to O-3 of the 4-substituted alpha-D-Galp residue, while others occur in non-stoichiometric amounts at other locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Ferreira
- Catedra de Farmacognosia y Productos Naturales, Facultad de Quimica, Montevideo, Uruguay
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40
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Zioncheck TF, Richardson L, Liu J, Chang L, King KL, Bennett GL, Fügedi P, Chamow SM, Schwall RH, Stack RJ. Sulfated oligosaccharides promote hepatocyte growth factor association and govern its mitogenic activity. J Biol Chem 1995; 270:16871-8. [PMID: 7622503 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.270.28.16871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 142] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is a potent mitogen, motogen, and morphogen for various epithelial cell types. The pleiotropic effects of HGF are mediated by its binding to a specific high affinity receptor, c-Met. In addition, HGF binds to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on cell surfaces and within the extracellular matrix. Incubation of HGF with 0.1, 1.0, and 10 micrograms/ml of heparin, heparan sulfate, or dextran sulfate resulted in a concentration-dependent increase in mitogenic potency in a primary rat hepatocyte bioassay, whereas sodium sulfate or fucoidan did not. Although co-incubation of HGF with sulfated compounds that enhanced HGF-dependent mitogenesis did not alter the binding isotherm of HGF for the c-Met receptor in a solid phase assay, an increase in autophosphorylation of the c-Met receptor in intact A549 cells was observed upon their addition. A series of chemically sulfated malto-oligosaccharides varying in unit size and charge was tested in the bioassay in order to provide additional insights into the nature of the HGF-heparin interaction. While sulfated di-, tri-, tetra-, and pentasaccharides did not significantly potentiate HGF-dependent mitogenesis, larger oligosaccharides such as the sulfated hexa-, hepta-, or a sulfated oligosaccharide mixture containing decasaccharides resulted in an approximate 2-, 4-, and 7-fold enhancement, respectively. We observed a correlation between the sulfated oligosaccharide preparations that enhanced mitogenic potency and those that promoted HGF oligomerization in vitro, as measured by gel filtration and analytical ultracentrifugation. These findings indicate that heparin-like molecules can stabilize HGF oligomers, which may facilitate c-Met receptor dimerization and activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T F Zioncheck
- Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California 94080-4990, USA
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41
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Xu X, Stack RJ, Rao N, Caulfield JP. Schistosoma mansoni: fractionation and characterization of the glycocalyx and glycogen-like material from cercariae. Exp Parasitol 1994; 79:399-409. [PMID: 7957759 DOI: 10.1006/expr.1994.1102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The glycocalyx (GCX) that covers schistosomal cercariae is a complex molecule that has immunomodulating properties. Here, we purified milligram amounts of GCX using Anguilla lectin which binds to the GCX covering the cercarial body and tail. Typically, 10 million cercariae were extracted with phenol, dialyzed, and chromatographed on a Sepharose 2B-CL column. An average of 39 mg of total carbohydrate eluted near the void volume from which 31 mg of glycogen-like material was further separated by lectin affinity chromatography. Its identity was established by compositional analysis, sensitivity to amylase digestion, and its nuclear magnetic resonance spectrum. The lectin-bound GCX was eluted with 0.1 M fucose with a final yield of 5.3 mg carbohydrate. Fucose composed 40% of the total GCX carbohydrate with lesser but approximately equal amounts of galactose, glucosamine, and galactosamine present. NMR data indicated that the amino sugars were N-acetylated. Glucose was also present but in varying amounts in different preparations of GCX. Oligosaccharides were released from GCX by hydrazinolysis and separated by electrophoresis after reductive amination to 8-aminonaphthalene-1,3,6-trisulfonic acid (ANTS). Bands comigrating with standards containing 11, 12, 16, and 17 sugar residues were detected. Thus, the GCX is a complex structure composed of oligosaccharides, probably linked to a peptide.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Xu
- Syntex Discovery Research, Palo Alto, California 94304
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42
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Ishihara M, Shaklee PN, Yang Z, Liang W, Wei Z, Stack RJ, Holme K. Structural features in heparin which modulate specific biological activities mediated by basic fibroblast growth factor. Glycobiology 1994; 4:451-8. [PMID: 7827407 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/4.4.451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The biological activity of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) is influenced greatly by direct binding to heparin and heparan sulphate (HS). Heparin-derived oligosaccharides have been utilized to determine the structural requirements present in the polymer that account for binding to bFGF. We had previously demonstrated that fragments > 6 mer can inhibit the interaction between cell surface heparan sulphate proteoglycan (HSPG) and bFGF, and bFGF-induced proliferation of adrenocortical endothelial (ACE) cells. In contrast, oligosaccharides > 10 mer can enhance the binding of bFGF to its high-affinity receptor or support bFGF-induced mitogenesis in ACE cells (Ishihara et al., J. Biol. Chem., 268, 4675-4683, 1993). We have extended these studies to size- and structure-defined oligosaccharides from heparin, 2-O-desulphated (2-O-DS-) heparin, 6-O-desulphated (6-O-DS-) heparin, carboxy-reduced (CR-) heparin and carboxy-amidomethylsulphonated (AMS-) heparin. Oligosaccharides from these polymers were fractionated on a bFGF-affinity column and were assessed as inhibitors or enhancers of specific bFGF-derived biological activities. The results of these studies indicate that both 2-O-sulphate and the negative charge of the carboxy group [L-iduronic acid (IdoA) residues] are required for specific interactions of heparin-derived oligosaccharides with bFGF and for modulation of bFGF mitogenic activity. In addition, the charge of the carboxy groups in uronic acids can be replaced by other functional groups with a negative charge, such as the amidomethyl sulphonate moiety described here.
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43
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Stults CL, Sullivan MT, Macher BA, Johnston RF, Stack RJ. Analysis of glycosphingolipid glycosyltransferase products on TLC plates by combined storage phosphor and immunostaining techniques. Anal Biochem 1994; 219:61-70. [PMID: 8059957 DOI: 10.1006/abio.1994.1232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Measurement of glycosyltransferase activity in whole cell extracts is often complicated by the fact that several enzymes in an homogenate are capable of using the same nucleotide sugar donor, thereby generating a range of products from both an exogenous and any endogenous acceptors. We report the use of a novel combination of techniques to simultaneously identify and quantify the products generated from a whole cell extract in a single experiment. Several radiolabeled glycosphingolipid products were generated by the addition of UDP-[14C]Gal to a reaction mixture containing an homogenate from a human leukemia cell line, THP-1. After the 14C-labeled products were separated on a TLC plate, storage phosphor technology and immunostaining (with carbohydrate sequence-specific monoclonal antibodies) were used sequentially on the same plate to simultaneously identify and quantify each of the glycosyltransferase products. This method allows product identification and quantification in the femtomole range. Thus, low levels of endogenous acceptors were easily detected. We have used a similar method with UDP-[3H]Gal to obtain glycosyltransferase product profiles from several human leukemia/lymphoma cell lines and subsequently identify two galactosyltransferase activities in these cell lines: UDP-Gal:Gal beta 1-4Glc beta 1-1Cer alpha 1,4galactosyltransferase; and UDP-Gal:GlcNAc beta 1--3Gal beta 1--4Glc beta 1--1Cer beta 1,4galactosyltransferase. In addition to product characterization, this method was used with reaction mixtures at different pH to demonstrate the usefulness of the method for characterizing multiple enzyme activities simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Stults
- San Francisco State University, California 94132
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44
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Andersson M, Ratnayake S, Kenne L, Ericsson L, Stack RJ. Structural studies of the extracellular polysaccharide from Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strain X6C61. Carbohydr Res 1993; 246:291-301. [PMID: 8370042 DOI: 10.1016/0008-6215(93)84041-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
The capsular polysaccharide from Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strain X6C61 has been investigated using NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, methylation analysis, and partial acid hydrolysis as the main methods. The polysaccharide is composed of hexasaccharide repeating units having the following structure. [formula: see text] The polysaccharide also contains O-acetyl groups, of which approximately 70% are substituted to O-3 of the beta-D-Glc pA residue.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Andersson
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Arrhenius Laboratory, Stockholm University, Sweden
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45
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Tyrrell DJ, Ishihara M, Rao N, Horne A, Kiefer MC, Stauber GB, Lam LH, Stack RJ. Structure and biological activities of a heparin-derived hexasaccharide with high affinity for basic fibroblast growth factor. J Biol Chem 1993; 268:4684-9. [PMID: 8444842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
We demonstrated previously that heparin-derived hexasaccharides are the smallest fragments of the polysaccharide with comparable basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF)-modulating activity in vitro (Ishihara, M., Tyrrell, D.J., Stauber, G.B., Brown, S., Cousens, L., and Stack, R.J. (1993) J. Biol. Chem. 268, 4675-4683. In this report, a specific hexasaccharide having high affinity for recombinant human bFGF was isolated and its structure deduced by analysis of its reduced disaccharide products after treatment with nitrous acid at pH 1.5, and by 1H NMR spectroscopy. The hexasaccharide has the structure [IdoA(2-OSO3)alpha 1-4GlcNSO3(6-OSO3)alpha 1-4]2IdoA(2-OSO3)alpha 1-4 AManR(6-OSO3). The hexasaccharide effectively inhibits the binding of syndecan-transfected RO-12 UC cells to bFGF-coated wells (Ishihara, M., Tyrrell, D.J., Kiefer, M.C., Barr, P.J., and Swiedler, S.J. (1992) Anal. Biochem. 202, 310-315), prevents the binding of 125I-bFGF to confluent monolayers of adrenocortical endothelial (ACE) cells, and inhibits the bFGF-dependent proliferation of ACE cells. Unlike the heparin from which it was derived, however, the hexasaccharide cannot promote the binding of 125I-bFGF to a recombinant high affinity bFGF receptor (flg) or restore the bFGF-dependent proliferative response to ACE cells grown in the presence of 5 mM sodium chlorate. Collectively, these data indicate that a hexasaccharide can be as effective as heparin as an antagonist of bFGF-mediated cell mitogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D J Tyrrell
- Glycomed Incorporated, Alameda, California 94501
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46
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Ishihara M, Tyrrell DJ, Stauber GB, Brown S, Cousens LS, Stack RJ. Preparation of affinity-fractionated, heparin-derived oligosaccharides and their effects on selected biological activities mediated by basic fibroblast growth factor. J Biol Chem 1993; 268:4675-83. [PMID: 8444841] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Homogeneously sized, heparin-derived oligosaccharides were prepared from heparin following partial depolymerization with nitrous acid, reduction with sodium borohydride, and fractionation by gel permeation chromatography. The resulting pools of di-, tetra-, hexa-, octa-, and decasaccharides were sequentially applied to an affinity column of human recombinant basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) covalently attached to Sepharose 4B and further fractionated into subpools based on their elution from this column in response to gradients of sodium chloride. In general, pools of smaller heparin-derived oligosaccharides required relatively lower salt concentration for complete elution, and pools of larger oligosaccharides required higher salt concentration. The homogeneously sized pools and affinity-fractionated subpools of heparin-derived oligosaccharides were quantitatively assessed as inhibitors or enhancers of specific bFGF-mediated biological activities in five separate assay systems as follows: assay 1, to compete with human lymphoblastoid cells expressing syndecan (RO-12 UC cells) for binding to bFGF-coated wells (Ishihara, M., Tyrrell, D.J., Kiefer, M.C., Barr, P.J., and Swiedler, S.J. (1992) Anal. Biochem. 202, 310-315); assay 2, to inhibit 125I-bFGF binding to "low affinity sites" of adrenocortical endothelial (ACE) cells; assay 3, to inhibit bFGF-induced proliferation of ACE cells; assay 4, to support mitogenic activity of bFGF in a growth stimulation assay of chlorate-treated ACE cells; and assay 5, to enhance the in vitro interaction between 125I-bFGF and the recombinant extra-cellular domain of FGF high affinity receptor. The data derived from the five assay systems demonstrated that heparin-derived hexa- and octasaccharides inhibited the interaction between cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycan and bFGF (assays 1 and 2) and bFGF-induced proliferation of ACE cells (assay 3) but were unable to enhance the binding of bFGF to its high affinity receptor in vitro (assay 5) or to support bFGF-induced mitogenesis in ACE cells (assay 4). These two activities required at least a decasaccharide with high affinity for bFGF.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ishihara
- Glycomed Incorporated, Alameda, California 94501
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47
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Stack RJ, Sullivan MT. Electrophoretic resolution and fluorescence detection of N-linked glycoprotein oligosaccharides after reductive amination with 8-aminonaphthalene-1,3,6-trisulphonic acid. Glycobiology 1992; 2:85-92. [PMID: 1372525 DOI: 10.1093/glycob/2.1.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The relative mobilities of various N-linked oligosaccharides reductively aminated to the charged fluorophore 8-amino-naphthalene-1,3,6-trisulphonic acid (ANTS) were determined by electrophoresis on high-density polyacrylamide slab gels. Each ANTS-derivatized oligosaccharide was assigned a relative migration index (RMI) expressed in terms of glucose equivalents, which was conveniently estimated by reference to a homologous series of ANTS--maltooligosaccharides run on each gel as oligosaccharide size standards. High-mannose-, complex- and hybrid-type structures were generally well resolved and easily visualized at picomole levels by simple UV light excitation. Application of these methods for the qualitative analysis of the oligosaccharides released from bovine fetuin and bovine asialofetuin by peptide-N-glycosidase F illustrates the usefulness of these techniques as fast, simple, and inexpensive tools for the characterization of N-linked oligosaccharides attached to glycoproteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Stack
- Glycomed, Incorporated, Alameda, CA 94501
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48
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Mannarelli BM, Ericsson LD, Lee D, Stack RJ. Taxonomic relationships among strains of the anaerobic bacterium Bacteroides ruminicola determined by DNA and extracellular polysaccharide analysis. Appl Environ Microbiol 1991; 57:2975-80. [PMID: 1746957 PMCID: PMC183907 DOI: 10.1128/aem.57.10.2975-2980.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA and extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) analyses were performed on 14 strains of Bacteroides ruminicola. The guanine-plus-cytosine (G+C) base contents, determined from the buoyant densities of chromosomal DNAs, showed a broad range of values, from 37.6 to 50.9 mol%. DNA hybridization showed generally low DNA relatedness among the strains. Seven strains formed two groups of closely related bacteria consisting of five (group 1) and two (group 2) strains, and another strain, E42g, showed moderate relatedness to group 1 strains. However, the remaining six strains were not related to any of the other strains. DNA reassociation indicates that the strains constitute a genetically diverse group representing as many as nine separate species. EPS analysis showed that the strains produced EPS with rather uniform sugar compositions, which did not correlate with strain relationships determined by DNA analysis. Four strains had EPS with acidic sugars or unknown compounds. The EPS of strain 20-63 contained the unusual acidic sugar 4-O-(1-carboxyethyl)-rhamnose. This monosaccharide has been shown to occur in nature in only one other bacterial species.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Mannarelli
- National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Peoria, Illinois 61604
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49
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Ha YW, Stack RJ, Hespell RB, Gordon SH, Bothast RJ. Some chemical and physical properties of extracellular polysaccharides produced by Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens strains. Appl Environ Microbiol 1991; 57:2016-20. [PMID: 1892390 PMCID: PMC183514 DOI: 10.1128/aem.57.7.2016-2020.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Most strains of Butyrivibrio fibrisolvens are known to produce extracellular polysaccharides (EPs). However, the rheological and functional properties of these EPs have not been determined. Initially, 26 strains of Butyrivibrio were screened for EP yield and apparent viscosities of cell-free supernatants. Yields ranged from less than 1.0 to 16.3 mg per 100 mg of glucose added to the culture. Viscosities ranged from 0.71 to 5.44 mPa.s. Five strains (CF2d, CF3, CF3a, CE51, and H10b) were chosen for further screening. The apparent viscosity of the EP from each of these strains decreased by only 50 to 60% when the shear rate was increased from 20 to 1,000 s-1. Strain CE51 produced the EP having the highest solution viscosity. A detailed comparison of shear dependency of the EP from strain CF3 with xanthan gum showed that this EP was less shear sensitive than xanthan gum and, at a shear rate of 1,000 s-1, more viscous. EPs from strains CF3 and H10b were soluble over a wide range of pH (1 to 13) in 80% (vol/vol) ethanol-water or in 1% (wt/vol) salt solutions. The pH of 1% EP solutions was between 4.5 and 5.5. Addition of acid increased solution viscosities, whereas addition of base decreased viscosity. EPs from strains CF3, CE51, and H10b displayed qualitatively similar infrared spectra. Calcium and sodium were the most abundant minerals in the three EPs. The amounts of magnesium, calcium, and iron varied considerably among the EPs, but the potassium contents remained relatively constant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y W Ha
- Fermentation Biochemistry Unit, National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Peoria, Illinois 61604
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50
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Abstract
Acute miliary tuberculosis of the skin is an extremely rare infection that occurs in immunocompromised persons. We report an intravenous drug abuser with human immunodeficiency virus infection in whom erythematous papules developed on the trunk and proximal aspect of the extremities. Visceral lesions of unsuspected miliary tuberculosis were discovered at autopsy, and the cutaneous papules were found to contain Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This is the first reported case of this cutaneous infection in a patient with the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Stack
- Department of Pathology, New Jersey Medical School, Newark
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