2024 |
Paul M, Barreda AP, Gregson A, Kahl R, King M, Hussein WM, et al., 'Regulation of 20a-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Expression in Term Pregnant Human Myometrium Ex Vivo.', Reprod Sci, 31 150-161 (2024) [C1]
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2023 |
Garcia-Esperon C, Ostman C, Walker FR, Chew BLA, Edwards S, Emery J, et al., 'The Hunter-8 Scale Prehospital Triage Workflow for Identification of Large Vessel Occlusion and Brain Haemorrhage', PREHOSPITAL EMERGENCY CARE, [C1]
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2023 |
Hinwood M, Ilicic M, Gyawali P, Coupland K, Kluge MG, Smith A, et al., 'Psychological Stress Management and Stress Reduction Strategies for Stroke Survivors: A Scoping Review', Annals of behavioral medicine : a publication of the Society of Behavioral Medicine, 57 111-130 (2023) [C1]
BACKGROUND: Stroke can be a life-changing event, with survivors frequently experiencing some level of disability, reduced independence, and an abrupt lifestyle change. Not surpris... [more]
BACKGROUND: Stroke can be a life-changing event, with survivors frequently experiencing some level of disability, reduced independence, and an abrupt lifestyle change. Not surprisingly, many stroke survivors report elevated levels of stress during the recovery process, which has been associated with worse outcomes. PURPOSE: Given the multiple roles of stress in the etiology of stroke recovery outcomes, we aimed to scope the existing literature on stress management interventions that have been trialed in stroke survivors. METHODS: We performed a database search for intervention studies conducted in stroke survivors which reported the effects on stress, resilience, or coping outcome. Medline (OVID), Embase (OVID), CINAHL (EBSCO), Cochrane Library, and PsycInfo (OVID) were searched from database inception until March 11, 2019, and updated on September 1, 2020. RESULTS: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria. There was significant variation in the range of trialed interventions, as well as the outcome measures used to assess stress. Overall, just over half (13/24) of the included studies reported a benefit in terms of stress reduction. Acceptability and feasibility were considered in 71% (17/24) and costs were considered in 17% (4/24) of studies. The management of stress was rarely linked to the prevention of symptoms of stress-related disorders. The overall evidence base of included studies is weak. However, an increase in the number of studies over time suggests a growing interest in this subject. CONCLUSIONS: Further research is required to identify optimum stress management interventions in stroke survivors, including whether the management of stress can ameliorate the negative impacts of stress on health.
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2023 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Kuhne C, Walker N, Bennett N, Aidman E, et al., 'Erratum: Correction: Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Platform to Train Stress Management Skills for a Defense Workforce: Multisite, Mixed Methods Feasibility Study (Journal of medical Internet research (2023) 25 (e46368))', Journal of medical Internet research, 25 e54504 (2023)
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.2196/46368.].... [more]
[This corrects the article DOI: 10.2196/46368.].
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2023 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Kuhne C, Evans DJR, Walker FR, 'Comparing approaches for selection, development, and deployment of extended reality (XR) teaching applications: A case study at The University of Newcastle Australia', EDUCATION AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, 28 4531-4562 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Hood RJ, Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Beard DJ, Rust R, Turner RJ, Stuckey SM, et al., 'Leakage beyond the primary lesion: A temporal analysis of cerebrovascular dysregulation at sites of hippocampal secondary neurodegeneration following cortical photothrombotic stroke', Journal of Neurochemistry, 167 733-752 (2023) [C1]
We have previously demonstrated that a cortical stroke causes persistent impairment of hippocampal-dependent cognitive tasks concomitant with secondary neurodegenerative processes... [more]
We have previously demonstrated that a cortical stroke causes persistent impairment of hippocampal-dependent cognitive tasks concomitant with secondary neurodegenerative processes such as amyloid-ß accumulation in the hippocampus, a region remote from the primary infarct. Interestingly, there is emerging evidence suggesting that deposition of amyloid-ß around cerebral vessels may lead to cerebrovascular structural changes, neurovascular dysfunction, and disruption of blood¿brain barrier integrity. However, there is limited knowledge about the temporal changes of hippocampal cerebrovasculature after cortical stroke. In the current study, we aimed to characterise the spatiotemporal cerebrovascular changes after cortical stroke. This was done using the photothrombotic stroke model targeting the motor and somatosensory cortices of mice. Cerebrovascular morphology as well as the co-localisation of amyloid-ß with vasculature and blood¿brain barrier integrity were assessed in the cortex and hippocampal regions at 7, 28 and 84 days post-stroke. Our findings showed transient cerebrovascular remodelling in the peri-infarct area up to 28 days post-stroke. Importantly, the cerebrovascular changes were extended beyond the peri-infarct region to the ipsilateral hippocampus and were sustained out to 84 days post-stroke. When investigating vessel diameter, we showed a decrease at 84 days in the peri-infarct and CA1 regions that were exacerbated in vessels with amyloid-ß deposition. Lastly, we showed sustained vascular leakage in the peri-infarct and ipsilateral hippocampus, indicative of a compromised blood¿brain-barrier. Our findings indicate that hippocampal vasculature may represent an important therapeutic target to mitigate the progression of post-stroke cognitive impairment.
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2023 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Kuhne C, Walker N, Bennett N, Aidman E, et al., 'Correction: Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Platform to Train Stress Management Skills for a Defense Workforce: Multisite, Mixed Methods Feasibility Study (Preprint) (2023)
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2023 |
Taylor P, Walker FR, Heathcote A, Aidman E, 'Effects of Multimodal Physical and Cognitive Fitness Training on Sustaining Mental Health and Job Readiness in a Military Cohort', Sustainability, 15 9016-9016 [C1]
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2023 |
Paul M, Paul JW, Hinwood M, Hood RJ, Martin K, Abdolhoseini M, et al., 'Clopidogrel Administration Impairs Post-Stroke Learning and Memory Recovery in Mice', International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 24 11706-11706 [C1]
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2023 |
Warren KE, Coupland KG, Hood RJ, Kang L, Walker FR, Spratt NJ, 'Movement of cerebrospinal fluid tracer into brain parenchyma and outflow to nasal mucosa is reduced at 24 h but not 2 weeks post-stroke in mice', Fluids and Barriers of the CNS, 20 (2023) [C1]
Background: Recent data indicates that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics are disturbed after stroke. Our lab has previously shown that intracranial pressure rises dramatically 24... [more]
Background: Recent data indicates that cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics are disturbed after stroke. Our lab has previously shown that intracranial pressure rises dramatically 24¿h after experimental stroke and that this reduces blood flow to ischaemic tissue. CSF outflow resistance is increased at this time point. We hypothesised that reduced transit of CSF through brain parenchyma and reduced outflow of CSF via the cribriform plate at 24¿h after stroke may contribute to the previously identified post-stroke intracranial pressure elevation. Methods: Using a photothrombotic permanent occlusion model of stroke in C57BL/6 adult male mice, we examined the movement of an intracisternally infused 0.5% Texas Red dextran throughout the brain and measured tracer efflux into the nasal mucosa via the cribriform plate at 24¿h or two weeks after stroke. Brain tissue and nasal mucosa were collected ex vivo and imaged using fluorescent microscopy to determine the change in CSF tracer intensity in these tissues. Results: At 24¿h after stroke, we found that CSF tracer load was significantly reduced in brain tissue from stroke animals in both the ipsilateral and contralateral hemispheres when compared to sham. CSF tracer load was also reduced in the lateral region of the ipsilateral hemisphere when compared to the contralateral hemisphere in stroke brains. In addition, we identified an 81% reduction in CSF tracer load in the nasal mucosa in stroke animals compared to sham. These alterations to the movement of CSF-borne tracer were not present at two weeks after stroke. Conclusions: Our data indicates that influx of CSF into the brain tissue and efflux via the cribriform plate are reduced 24¿h after stroke. This may contribute to reported increases in intracranial pressure at 24¿h after stroke and thus worsen stroke outcomes.
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2023 |
Paul M, Paul J, Hinwood M, Hood R, Martin K, Abdolhoseini M, et al., 'Clopidogrel Administration Impairs Post-Stroke Learning and Memory Recovery in Mice', International Journal of Molecular Sciences, (2023)
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2023 |
Ramanathan S, Lynch E, Bernhardt J, Nilsson M, Cadilhac DA, Carey L, et al., 'Impact assessment of the Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Brain Recovery.', Health research policy and systems, 21 30 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Paul M, Zakar T, Phung J, Gregson A, Barreda AP, Butler TA, et al., '20a-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Expression in the Human Myometrium at Term and Preterm Birth: Relationships to Fetal Sex and Maternal Body Mass Index.', Reprod Sci, 30 2512-2523 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Ditton E, Knott B, Hodyl N, Horton G, Oldmeadow C, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Evaluation of an App-Delivered Psychological Flexibility Skill Training Intervention for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Randomized Controlled Trial.', JMIR Ment Health, 10 e42566 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Kuhne C, Walker N, Bennett N, Aidman E, et al., 'Evaluation of a Virtual Reality Platform to Train Stress Management Skills for a Defense Workforce: Multisite, Mixed Methods Feasibility Study.', J Med Internet Res, 25 e46368 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Kuhne C, Kecelioglu ED, Maltby S, Hood RJ, Knott B, Ditton E, et al., 'Direct comparison of virtual reality and 2D delivery on sense of presence, emotional and physiological outcome measures', Frontiers in Virtual Reality, 4 (2023) [C1]
Introduction: Virtual-reality (VR) technology has, over the last decade, quickly expanded from gaming into other sectors including training, education, and wellness. One of the mo... [more]
Introduction: Virtual-reality (VR) technology has, over the last decade, quickly expanded from gaming into other sectors including training, education, and wellness. One of the most popular justifications for the use of VR over 2D is increased immersion and engagement. However, very little fundamental research has been produced evaluating the comparative impact of immersive VR on the user¿s cognitive, physiological, and emotional state. Methods: A within-subject cross-over study design was used to directly compare VR and 2D screen delivery of different subject matter content. Both physiological and self-report data were collected for scenes containing calming nature environments, aggressive social confrontations, and neutral content. Results: Compared to 2D, the VR delivery resulted in a higher sense of presence, higher ratings of engagement, fun, and privacy. Confrontational scenes were rated as more tense whilst calming scenes were rated as more relaxing when presented in VR compared to 2D. Physiological data indicated that the scenes promoted overall states of arousal and relaxation in accordance with the scene subject matter (both VR and 2D). However, heart rate (HR) and galvanic skin response (GSR) were consistently higher throughout the VR delivery condition compared to 2D, including responses during scenes of neutral and calming subject matter. Discussion: This discrepancy between emotional and physiological responses for calming and neutral content in VR suggest an elevated arousal response driven by VR immersion that is independent of the emotional and physiological responses to the subject matter itself. These findings have important implications for those looking to develop and utilize VR technology as a training and educational tool as they provide insights into the impact of immersion on the user.
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2023 |
Ditton E, Knott B, Hodyl N, Horton G, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Medical Student Experiences of Engaging in a Psychological Flexibility Skill Training App for Burnout and Well-being: Pilot Feasibility Study.', JMIR Form Res, 7 e43263 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Maltby S, Garcia-Esperon C, Jackson K, Butcher K, Evans JW, O'Brien W, et al., 'TACTICS VR Stroke Telehealth Virtual Reality Training for Health Care Professionals Involved in Stroke Management at Telestroke Spoke Hospitals: Module Design and Implementation Study.', JMIR Serious Games, 11 e43416 (2023) [C1]
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2023 |
Mithen LM, Weaver N, Walker FR, Inder KJ, 'Feasibility of biomarkers to measure stress, burnout and fatigue in emergency nurses: a cross-sectional study.', BMJ Open, 13 e072668 (2023) [C1]
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2022 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Keynes A, Nalivaiko E, Evans DJR, Walker FR, 'Current State and General Perceptions of the Use of Extended Reality (XR) Technology at the University of Newcastle: Interviews and Surveys From Staff and Students', SAGE OPEN, 12 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Hinwood M, Nyberg J, Leigh L, Gustavsson S, Attia J, Oldmeadow C, et al., 'Do P2Y12 receptor inhibitors prescribed poststroke modify the risk of cognitive disorder or dementia? Protocol for a target trial using multiple national Swedish registries', BMJ Open, (2022)
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2022 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Beard DJ, Hood RJ, Åberg ND, Crock P, Walker FR, et al., 'Growth Hormone Increases BDNF and mTOR Expression in Specific Brain Regions after Photothrombotic Stroke in Mice.', Neural plasticity, 2022 9983042 (2022) [C1]
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2022 |
Ryan A, Paul CL, Cox M, Whalen O, Bivard A, Attia J, et al., 'TACTICS-Trial of Advanced CT Imaging and Combined Education Support for Drip and Ship: evaluating the effectiveness of an 'implementation intervention' in providing better patient access to reperfusion therapies: protocol for a non-randomised controlled stepped wedge cluster trial in acute stroke', BMJ OPEN, 12 (2022)
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2022 |
Ditton E, Knott B, Hodyl N, Horton G, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Assessing the Efficacy of an Individualized Psychological Flexibility Skills Training Intervention App for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial', JMIR RESEARCH PROTOCOLS, 11 (2022)
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2022 |
Ditton E, Knott B, Hodyl N, Horton G, Walke FR, Nilsson M, 'Assessing the Efficacy of an Individualized Psychological Flexibility Skills Training Intervention App for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (vol 11, e32992, 2022)', JMIR RESEARCH PROTOCOLS, 11 (2022)
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2022 |
Maltby S, Garcia-Esperon C, Jackson K, Butcher K, Evans JW, O'Brien W, et al., 'TACTICS VR Stroke Telehealth Virtual Reality Training for Health Care Professionals Involved in Stroke Management at Telestroke Spoke Hospitals: Module Design and Implementation Study (Preprint) (2022)
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2022 |
Kashida YT, Lillicrap T, Walker R, Holliday E, Hasnain MG, Tomari S, et al., 'Transition in Incidence Rate of Hospitalised Stroke and Case Fatality Rate in the Hunter Region, Australia, 2001-2019: A Prospective Hospital-Based Study: 19-year trend of stroke hospitalisation in Australia', Journal of Stroke and Cerebrovascular Diseases, 31 (2022) [C1]
Introduction: Continuous surveillance of stroke admissions has been conducted in the Hunter region, Australia, over the past two decades. We aimed to describe the trends in incide... [more]
Introduction: Continuous surveillance of stroke admissions has been conducted in the Hunter region, Australia, over the past two decades. We aimed to describe the trends in incidence rates of hospitalised stroke and case-fatality rates in this region, 2001-2019. Methods: From a hospital-based stroke registry, data for admitted adult stroke patients residing in the Hunter region were collected using ICD-10 codes for ischemic and haemorrhagic stroke. Negative binomial regression and logistic regression analysis were used to analyse trends for age-standardised and age-specific incidence rates of hospitalised stroke and 28-day case-fatality rates. Results: A total of 14,662 hospitalisations for stroke in 13,242 individuals were registered. The age-standardised incidence rate declined from 123 per 100,000 population in the 2001-2005 epoch to 96 in the 2016-2019 epoch (mean annual change -2.0%, incidence rate ratio (IRR) = 0.980 [95%CI: 0.976-0.984]). Age-specific analyses identified significant reduction in the group aged 75-84 (1039 per 100,000 population in 2001-2005 to 633 in 2016-2019, annual change -3.5%, IRR= 0.965 [95%CI: 0.960-0.970]). The 28-day case-fatality rates fluctuated over time (18.5% in 2001-2005, 20.8% in 2010-2015, and 17.8% in 2016-2019). Projected population aging suggests annual volume of patients with new stroke will increase by 77% by 2041 if incidence rates remain unchanged at the 2016-2019 level. Conclusion: Although age-standardised hospitalised stroke incidence rates have declined in the Hunter region, the health system will face an increase in stroke hospitalisations related to the aging population.
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2022 |
Ditton E, Knott B, Hodyl N, Horton G, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Erratum: Assessing the Efficacy of an Individualized Psychological Flexibility Skills Training Intervention App for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial (JMIR Research Protocols (2022) 11:2 (e32992) DOI: 10.2196/32992)', JMIR Research Protocols, 11 (2022)
In ¿Assessing the Efficacy of an Individualized Psychological Flexibility Skills Training Intervention App for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Protocol for a Randomized Co... [more]
In ¿Assessing the Efficacy of an Individualized Psychological Flexibility Skills Training Intervention App for Medical Student Burnout and Well-being: Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial¿ (JMIR Res Protoc 2022;11(2):e32992), the authors made the following update. On March 17, 2022, the authors had published a corrigendum [1] to change the reported intervention duration from 5 weeks to 8 weeks. However, the intervention duration reported in the originally published article was correct. The current corrigendum restores the reported intervention duration to 5 weeks with the following changes: 1. In the Methods section of the Abstract, a statement appeared as follows: Participants in the individualized and nonindividualized intervention arms will have 8 weeks to access the app, which includes a PF concepts training session (stage 1) and access to short PF skill activities on demand (stage 2). This has been corrected as follows: Participants in the individualized and nonindividualized intervention arms will have 5 weeks to access the app, which includes a PF concepts training session (stage 1) and access to short PF skill activities on demand (stage 2). 2. In the Data Collection Tools and Procedures section of Methods, a statement appeared as follows: Data will be collected at two time points: T1 (baseline) and T2 (following the completion of the app-based intervention, commencing 8 weeks after baseline). This has been corrected as follows: Data will be collected at two time points: T1 (baseline) and T2 (following the completion of the app-based intervention, commencing 5 weeks after baseline). 3. In the Intervention Stages section of Methods, a statement appeared as follows: Participants who are allocated to the individualized and nonindividualized groups will have access to the 2-stage app for 8 weeks. This has been corrected as follows: Participants who are allocated to the individualized and nonindividualized groups will have access to the 2-stage app for 5 weeks. 4. In the Intervention Stages section of Methods, a statement appeared as follows: Participants may complete as many activities as they choose, but will be asked to complete at least four stage 2 skill activities during their 8-week period of access to the app. The correction will appear in the online version of the paper on the JMIR Publications website on July 11, 2022, together with the publication of this correction notice. Because this was made This has been corrected as follows: Participants may complete as many activities as they choose, but will be asked to complete at least four stage 2 skill activities during their 5-week period of access to the app. 5. Following the previous corrigendum [1], Figure 1 was altered to reflect the intervention duration of 8 weeks. The present corrigendum updated Figure 1 as follows: (Figure Presented) The correction will appear in the online version of the paper on the JMIR Publications website on July 11, 2022, together with the publication of this correction notice. Because this was made after submission to PubMed, PubMed Central, and other full-text repositories, the corrected article has also been resubmitted to those repositories.
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2022 |
John AR, Singh AK, Do T-TN, Eidels A, Nalivaiko E, Gavgani AM, et al., 'Unraveling the Physiological Correlates of Mental Workload Variations in Tracking and Collision Prediction Tasks', IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON NEURAL SYSTEMS AND REHABILITATION ENGINEERING, 30 770-781 (2022) [C1]
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2021 |
Zalewska K, Hood RJ, Pietrogrande G, Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Ong LK, Johnson SJ, et al., 'Corticosterone administration alters white matter tract structure and reduces gliosis in the sub-acute phase of experimental stroke', International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 22 (2021) [C1]
White matter tract (WMT) degeneration has been reported to occur following a stroke, and it is associated with post-stroke functional disturbances. White matter pathology has been... [more]
White matter tract (WMT) degeneration has been reported to occur following a stroke, and it is associated with post-stroke functional disturbances. White matter pathology has been suggested to be an independent predictor of post-stroke recovery. However, the factors that influence WMT remodeling are poorly understood. Cortisol is a steroid hormone released in response to prolonged stress, and elevated levels of cortisol have been reported to interfere with brain recovery. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of corticosterone (CORT; the rodent equivalent of cortisol) on WMT structure post-stroke. Photothrombotic stroke (or sham surgery) was induced in 8-week-old male C57BL/6 mice. At 72 h, mice were exposed to standard drinking water ± CORT (100 µg/mL). After two weeks of CORT administration, mice were euthanised and brain tissue collected for histological and biochemical analysis of WMT (particularly the corpus cal-losum and corticospinal tract). CORT administration was associated with increased tissue loss within the ipsilateral hemisphere, and modest and inconsistent WMT reorganization. Further, a structural and molecular analysis of the WMT components suggested that CORT exerted effects over axons and glial cells. Our findings highlight that CORT at stress-like levels can moderately influence the reorganization and microstructure of WMT post-stroke.
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2021 |
Hood RJ, Maltby S, Keynes A, Kluge MG, Nalivaiko E, Ryan A, et al., 'Development and Pilot Implementation of TACTICS VR: A Virtual Reality-Based Stroke Management Workflow Training Application and Training Framework', FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY, 12 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Cochrane JA, Flynn T, Wills A, Walker FR, Nilsson M, Johnson SJ, 'Clinical Decision Support Tools for Predicting Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Total Knee Arthroplasty: A Systematic Review', JOURNAL OF ARTHROPLASTY, 36 1832-+ (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Kluge MG, Maltby S, Walker N, Bennett N, Aidman E, Nalivaiko E, Walker FR, 'Development of a modular stress management platform (Performance Edge VR) and a pilot efficacy trial of a bio-feedback enhanced training module for controlled breathing', PLoS ONE, 16 (2021) [C1]
This paper describes the conceptual design of a virtual reality-based stress management training tool and evaluation of the initial prototype in a pilot efficacy study. Performanc... [more]
This paper describes the conceptual design of a virtual reality-based stress management training tool and evaluation of the initial prototype in a pilot efficacy study. Performance Edge virtual-reality (VR) was co-developed with the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to address the need for practical stress management training for ADF personnel. The VR application is biofeedback-enabled and contains key stress management techniques derived from acceptance and commitment and cognitive behavioural therapy in a modular framework. End-user-provided feedback on usability, design, and user experience was positive, and particularly complimentary of the respiratory biofeedback functionality. Training of controlled breathing delivered across 3 sessions increased participants¿ self-reported use of breath control in everyday life and progressively improved controlled breathing skills (objectively assessed as a reduction in breathing rate and variability). Thus the data show that a biofeedback-enabled controlled breathing protocol delivered through Performance Edge VR can produce both behaviour change and objective improvement in breathing metrics. These results confirm the validity of Performance Edge VR platform, and its Controlled Breathing module, as a novel approach to tailoring VR-based applications to train stress management skills in a workplace setting.
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2021 |
Baptista J, Blache D, Cox-Witton K, Craddock N, Dalziel T, de Graaff N, et al., 'Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Welfare of Animals in Australia', Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 7 (2021) [C1]
We report on the various responses in Australia during 2020 to minimize negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the welfare of animals. Most organizations and individuals wit... [more]
We report on the various responses in Australia during 2020 to minimize negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the welfare of animals. Most organizations and individuals with animals under their care had emergency preparedness plans in place for various scenarios; however, the restrictions on human movement to contain the spread of COVID-19, coupled with the economic impact and the health effects of COVID-19 on the skilled workforce, constituted a new threat to animal welfare for which there was no blueprint. The spontaneous formation of a national, multisectoral response group on animal welfare, consisting of more than 34 organizations with animals under their care, facilitated information flow during the crisis, which helped to mitigate some of the shocks to different organizations and to ensure continuity of care for animals during the pandemic. We conclude that animal welfare is a shared responsibility, and accordingly, a multisectoral approach to animal welfare during a crisis is required. Our experience demonstrates that to safeguard animal welfare during crises, nations should consider the following: a national risk assessment, clear communication channels, contingency plans for animal welfare, a crisis response group, and support systems for animal care providers. Our findings and recommendations from the Australian context may inform other countries to ensure that animal welfare is not compromised during the course of unpredictable events.
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2021 |
Afkhami R, Walker FR, Ramadan S, Wong R, Johnson SJ, 'Indexing cerebrovascular health using near-infrared spectroscopy', Scientific Reports, 11 (2021) [C1]
Near-infrared spectroscopy (NiRS) is a relatively new technology of brain imaging with its potential in the assessment of cerebrovascular health only recently discovered. Encourag... [more]
Near-infrared spectroscopy (NiRS) is a relatively new technology of brain imaging with its potential in the assessment of cerebrovascular health only recently discovered. Encouraging early results suggest that NiRS can be used as an inexpensive and portable cerebrovascular health tracking device using a recently proposed pulse relaxation function (PReFx). In this paper, we propose a new NiRS timing index, TI NiRS, of cerebrovascular health. TI NiRS is a novel use of the NiRS technology. TI NiRS is motivated by the previously proved relationship of the timing of the reflected wave with vascular resistance and compliance in the context of pressure waveforms. We correlated both TI NiRS and PReFx against age, a non-exercise cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) index, and two existing indices of cerebrovascular health, namely transcranial Doppler (TCD) augmentation index, AI TCD, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) blood flow pulsatility index, PI MRI. The TI NiRS correlations with Age, CRF, PI MRI and AI TCD all are significant, i.e., r= 0.53 (p= 0.002), r= - 0.44 (p= 0.011), r= 0.45 (p= 0.012) and r= 0.46 (p= 0.010), respectively. PReFx, however, did not have significant correlations with any of the vascular health factors. The proposed timing index is a reliable indicator of cerebrovascular aging factors in the NiRS waveform.
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2021 |
Weerasekara I, Baye J, Burke M, Crowfoot G, Mason G, Peak R, et al., 'What do stroke survivors' value about participating in research and what are the most important research problems related to stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA)? A survey', BMC MEDICAL RESEARCH METHODOLOGY, 21 (2021) [C1]
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2021 |
Lubans DR, Smith JJ, Eather N, Leahy AA, Morgan PJ, Lonsdale C, et al., 'Time-efficient intervention to improve older adolescents' cardiorespiratory fitness: Findings from the a Burn 2 Learn' cluster randomised controlled trial', British Journal of Sports Medicine, 55 751-758 (2021) [C1]
Background Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important marker of current and future health status. The primary aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of a time-efficient ... [more]
Background Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is an important marker of current and future health status. The primary aim of our study was to evaluate the impact of a time-efficient school-based intervention on older adolescents' CRF. Methods Two-arm cluster randomised controlled trial conducted in two cohorts (February 2018 to February 2019 and February 2019 to February 2020) in New South Wales, Australia. Participants (N=670, 44.6% women, 16.0±0.43 years) from 20 secondary schools: 10 schools (337 participants) were randomised to the Burn 2 Learn (B2L) intervention and 10 schools (333 participants) to the control. Teachers in schools allocated to the B2L intervention were provided with training, resources, and support to facilitate the delivery of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) activity breaks during curriculum time. Teachers and students in the control group continued their usual practice. The primary outcome was CRF (20 m multi-stage fitness test). Secondary outcomes were muscular fitness, physical activity, hair cortisol concentrations, mental health and cognitive function. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 6 months (primary end-point) and 12 months. Effects were estimated using mixed models accounting for clustering. Results We observed a group-by-time effect for CRF (difference=4.1 laps, 95% CI 1.8 to 6.4) at the primary end-point (6 months), but not at 12 months. At 6 months, group-by-time effects were found for muscular fitness, steps during school hours and cortisol. Conclusions Implementing HIIT during curricular time improved adolescents' CRF and several secondary outcomes. Our findings suggest B2L is unlikely to be an effective approach unless teachers embed sessions within the school day. Trial registration number Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12618000293268).
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2021 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Hood RJ, Collins-Praino LE, Turner RJ, Walker FR, Nilsson M, Ong LK, 'More than motor impairment: A spatiotemporal analysis of cognitive impairment and associated neuropathological changes following cortical photothrombotic stroke', Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism, 41 2439-2455 (2021) [C1]
There is emerging evidence suggesting that a cortical stroke can cause delayed and remote hippocampal dysregulation, leading to cognitive impairment. In this study, we aimed to in... [more]
There is emerging evidence suggesting that a cortical stroke can cause delayed and remote hippocampal dysregulation, leading to cognitive impairment. In this study, we aimed to investigate motor and cognitive outcomes after experimental stroke, and their association with secondary neurodegenerative processes. Specifically, we used a photothrombotic stroke model targeting the motor and somatosensory cortices of mice. Motor function was assessed using the cylinder and grid walk tasks. Changes in cognition were assessed using a mouse touchscreen platform. Neuronal loss, gliosis and amyloid-ß accumulation were investigated in the peri-infarct and ipsilateral hippocampal regions at 7, 28 and 84 days post-stroke. Our findings showed persistent impairment in cognitive function post-stroke, whilst there was a modest spontaneous motor recovery over the investigated period of 84 days. In the peri-infarct region, we detected a reduction in neuronal loss and decreased neuroinflammation over time post-stroke, which potentially explains the spontaneous motor recovery. Conversely, we observed persistent neuronal loss together with concomitant increased neuroinflammation and amyloid-ß accumulation in the hippocampus, which likely accounts for the persistent cognitive dysfunction. Our findings indicate that cortical stroke induces secondary neurodegenerative processes in the hippocampus, a region remote from the primary infarct, potentially contributing to the progression of post-stroke cognitive impairment.
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Nova |
2021 |
Zhao Z, Hood RJ, Ong LK, Pietrogrande G, Sanchez Bezanilla S, Warren KE, et al., 'Exploring How Low Oxygen Post Conditioning Improves Stroke-Induced Cognitive Impairment: A Consideration of Amyloid-Beta Loading and Other Mechanisms', FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY, 12 (2021) [C1]
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Nova |
2021 |
Afkhami R, Wong R, Ramadan S, Walker FR, Johnson S, 'Indexing Cerebrovascular Health Using Transcranial Doppler Ultrasound', Ultrasound in Medicine and Biology, 47 919-927 (2021) [C1]
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) blood flow velocity has been extensively used in biomedical research as it provides a cost-effective and relatively simple approach to assess changes in... [more]
Transcranial Doppler (TCD) blood flow velocity has been extensively used in biomedical research as it provides a cost-effective and relatively simple approach to assess changes in cerebral blood flow dynamics and track cerebrovascular health status. In this article we introduce a new TCD-based timing index, TITCD, as an indicator of vascular stiffening and vascular health. We investigate the correlations of the new index and the existing indices, namely the pulsatility index and the augmentation index, with age, cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) blood flow pulsatility index (PIMRI). Notably, the new index showed stronger correlations with CRF (r = -0.79) and PIMRI (r = 0.53) compared with the augmentation index (r = -0.65 with CRF and no significant correlation with PIMRI) and the pulsatility index (no significant correlations with CRF or PIMRI), and a similar correlation with age as the augmentation index. The clearer relationship of the proposed timing index with vascular aging factors underlines its utility as an early indicator of vascular stiffening.
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Nova |
2020 |
Moore Z, Mobilio F, Walker FR, Taylor JM, Crack PJ, 'Abrogation of type-I interferon signalling alters the microglial response to Aß
Neuroinflammation and accompanying microglial dysfunction are now appreciated to be involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Critical to the process of neuroinflamm... [more]
Neuroinflammation and accompanying microglial dysfunction are now appreciated to be involved in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. Critical to the process of neuroinflammation are the type-I interferon (IFN) family of cytokines. Efforts to phenotypically characterize microglia within AD identify distinct populations associated with type-I IFN signalling, yet how this affects underlying microglial function is yet to be fully elucidated. Here we demonstrate that Aß1-42 exposure increases bioactive levels of type-I IFN produced by primary microglia alongside increased expression of type-I IFN related genes. Primary microglia isolated from brains of APPswePS1¿E9 mice with ablated type-I IFN signalling show an increased phagocytic ability to uptake FITC-Aß1-42. Correlative assessment of plaque sizes in aged APPswePS1¿E9 mice with abrogated type-I IFN signalling show unchanged deposition levels. Microglia from these mice did however show alterations in morphology. This data further highlights the role of type-I IFN signalling within microglia and identifies a role in phagocytosis. As such, targeting both microglial and global type-I IFN signalling presents as a novel therapeutic strategy for AD management.
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Nova |
2020 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Aberg ND, Crock P, Walker FR, Nilsson M, Isgaard J, Ong LK, 'Growth Hormone Promotes Motor Function after Experimental Stroke and Enhances Recovery-Promoting Mechanisms within the Peri-Infarct Area', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES, 21 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Aberg ND, Crock P, Walker FR, Nilsson M, Isgaard J, Ong LK, 'Growth Hormone Treatment Promotes Remote Hippocampal Plasticity after Experimental Cortical Stroke', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES, 21 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Gyawali P, Hinwood M, Chow WZ, Kluge M, Ong LK, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Exploring the relationship between fatigue and circulating levels of the pro-inflammatory biomarkers interleukin-6 and C-reactive protein in the chronic stage of stroke recovery: A cross-sectional study', Brain, Behavior, & Immunity - Health, 9 (2020)
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Nova |
2020 |
Afkhami RG, Walker FR, Ramadan S, Johnson S, 'A Dynamic Model of Brain Hemodynamics in Near-Infrared Spectroscopy', IEEE Transactions on Biomedical Engineering, 67 2103-2109 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Chow WZ, Ong LK, Kluge MG, Gyawali P, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Similar cognitive deficits in mice and humans in the chronic phase post-stroke identified using the touchscreen-based paired-associate learning task', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 10 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Hinwood M, Ilicic M, Gyawali P, Kluge MG, Coupland K, Smith A, et al., 'Exploration of stress management interventions to address psychological stress in stroke survivors: a protocol for a scoping review', BMJ OPEN, 10 (2020)
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2020 |
Aberg ND, Gadd G, Aberg D, Hallgren P, Blomstrand C, Jood K, et al., 'Relationship between Levels of Pre-Stroke Physical Activity and Post-Stroke Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor I', BIOMEDICINES, 8 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Matta SM, Moore Z, Walker FR, Hill-Yardin EL, Crack PJ, 'An altered glial phenotype in the NL3
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Nova |
2020 |
Belaya I, Ivanova M, Sorvari A, Ilicic M, Loppi S, Koivisto H, et al., 'Astrocyte remodeling in the beneficial effects of long-term voluntary exercise in Alzheimer s disease', Journal of Neuroinflammation, 17 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Gyawali P, Chow WZ, Hinwood M, Kluge M, English C, Ong LK, et al., 'Opposing Associations of Stress and Resilience With Functional Outcomes in Stroke Survivors in the Chronic Phase of Stroke: A Cross-Sectional Study', FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY, 11 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2020 |
Ditton E, Johnson S, Hodyl N, Flynn T, Pollack M, Ribbons K, et al., 'Improving Patient Outcomes Following Total Knee Arthroplasty: Identifying Rehabilitation Pathways Based on Modifiable Psychological Risk and Resilience Factors', Frontiers in Psychology, 11 (2020) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Abdolhoseini M, Kluge MG, Walker FR, Johnson SJ, 'Segmentation, Tracing, and Quantification of Microglial Cells from 3D Image Stacks', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 9 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Fernandes J, Blache D, Maloney SK, Martin GB, Venus B, Walker FR, et al., 'Addressing Animal Welfare through Collaborative Stakeholder Networks', AGRICULTURE-BASEL, 9 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Hinwood M, Kluge MG, Ilicic M, Walker FR, 'Understanding microglial involvement in stress-induced mood disturbance: a modulator of vulnerability?', Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences, 28 98-104 (2019) [C1]
Evidence demonstrating that microglial mediated neuroimmune disturbances play a central role in the aetiology of mood pathology have transformed the landscape within psychiatric n... [more]
Evidence demonstrating that microglial mediated neuroimmune disturbances play a central role in the aetiology of mood pathology have transformed the landscape within psychiatric neuroscience. This article will place in context these recent developments and will place a particular focus on considering how microglia may contribute to shaping the operating environment of the CNS to foster susceptibility and resilience to psychopathology. Specifically, we will consider contributions from microglial priming, microglial modulation of synaptic plasticity, glial modulation of glutamatergic tone, and finally the role of neuroinflammatory disturbances in cerebrovascular integrity. Although much has been revealed about neuroimmune contributions to mood state and psychological health, our understanding of core mechanisms is still very much in a state of flux and it is likely that new insights will continue to shape our understanding well into the future.
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Nova |
2019 |
Abdolhoseini M, Kluge MG, Walker FR, Johnson SJ, 'Segmentation of Heavily Clustered Nuclei from Histopathological Images', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 9 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Walker FR, Thomson A, Pfingst K, Vlemincx E, Aidman E, Nalivaiko E, 'Habituation of the electrodermal response - A biological correlate of resilience?', PLOS ONE, 14 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Mayhew JA, Callister RJ, Walker FR, Smith DW, Graham BA, 'Aging alters signaling properties in the mouse spinal dorsal horn', MOLECULAR PAIN, 15 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, TeBay C, Nilsson M, Walker FR, Ong LK, 'Visual discrimination impairment after experimental stroke is associated with disturbances in the polarization of the astrocytic aquaporin-4 and increased accumulation of neurotoxic proteins', Experimental Neurology, 318 232-243 (2019) [C1]
Numerous clinical studies have documented the high incidence of cognitive impairment after stroke. However, there is only limited knowledge about the underlying mechanisms. Intere... [more]
Numerous clinical studies have documented the high incidence of cognitive impairment after stroke. However, there is only limited knowledge about the underlying mechanisms. Interestingly, there is emerging evidence suggesting that cognitive function after stroke may be affected due to reduced waste clearance and subsequent accumulation of neurotoxic proteins. To further explore this potential association, we utilised a model of experimental stroke in mice. Specifically, a photothrombotic vascular occlusion targeting motor and sensory parts of the cerebral cortex was induced in young adult mice, and changes in cognition were assessed using a touchscreen platform for pairwise visual discrimination. The results showed that the execution of the visual discrimination task was impaired in mice 10 to 14 days post-stroke compared to sham. Stroke also induced significant neuronal loss within the peri-infarct, thalamus and the CA1 sub-region of the hippocampus. Further, immunohistochemical and protein analyses of the selected brain regions revealed an increased accumulation and aggregation of both amyloid-ß and a-synuclein. These alterations were associated with significant disturbances in the aquaporin-4 protein expression and polarization at the astrocytic end-feet. The results suggest a link between the increased accumulation of neurotoxic proteins and the stroke-induced cognitive impairment. Given that the neurotoxic protein accumulation appeared alongside changes in astrocytic aquaporin-4 distribution, we suggest that the function of the waste clearance pathways in the brain post-stroke may represent a therapeutic target to improve brain recovery.
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Nova |
2019 |
Pietrogrande G, Zalewska K, Zhao Z, Abdolhoseini M, Chow WZ, Sanchez-Bezanilla S, et al., 'Low oxygen post conditioning prevents thalamic secondary neuronal loss caused by excitotoxicity after cortical stroke', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 9 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Mackie P, Crowfoot G, Janssen H, Dunstan DW, Bernhardt J, Walker FR, et al., 'Breaking up sitting time after stroke - How much less sitting is needed to improve blood pressure after stroke (BUST-BP-Dose): Protocol for a dose-finding study', CONTEMPORARY CLINICAL TRIALS COMMUNICATIONS, 13 (2019)
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2019 |
Sanchez-Bezanilla S, Nilsson M, Walker FR, Ong LK, 'Can We Use 2,3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium Chloride-Stained Brain Slices for Other Purposes? The Application of Western Blotting', FRONTIERS IN MOLECULAR NEUROSCIENCE, 12 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Pietrogrande G, Zalewska K, Zhao Z, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Low Oxygen Post Conditioning as an Efficient Non-pharmacological Strategy to Promote Motor Function After Stroke', Translational Stroke Research, 10 402-412 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Leahy AA, Eather N, Smith JJ, Hillman C, Morgan PJ, Nilsson M, et al., 'School-based physical activity intervention for older adolescents: rationale and study protocol for the Burn 2 Learn cluster randomised controlled trial', BMJ OPEN, 9 (2019)
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2019 |
Kluge MG, Abdolhoseini M, Zalewska K, Ong LK, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Spatiotemporal analysis of impaired microglia process movement at sites of secondary neurodegeneration post-stroke', JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM, 39 2456-2470 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2019 |
Yew WP, Djukic ND, Jayaseelan JSP, Walker FR, Roos KAA, Chataway TK, et al., 'Early treatment with minocycline following stroke in rats improves functional recovery and differentially modifies responses of peri-infarct microglia and astrocytes', JOURNAL OF NEUROINFLAMMATION, 16 (2019) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Mayhew J, Graham BA, Biber K, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Purinergic modulation of glutamate transmission: An expanding role in stress-linked neuropathology.', Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews, 93 26-37 (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Ramanathan S, Reeves P, Deeming S, Bernhardt J, Nilsson M, Cadilhac DA, et al., 'Implementing a protocol for a research impact assessment of the Centre for Research Excellence in Stroke Rehabilitation and Brain Recovery', HEALTH RESEARCH POLICY AND SYSTEMS, 16 (2018)
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2018 |
Lillicrap T, Garcia-Esperon C, Walker FR, Ong LK, Nilsson M, Spratt N, et al., 'Growth Hormone Deficiency Is Frequent After Recent Stroke', FRONTIERS IN NEUROLOGY, 9 (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Iseme RA, McEvoy M, Kelly B, Agnew L, Walker FR, Boyle M, Attia J, 'A cross-sectional study of the association between autoantibodies and qualitative ultrasound index of bone in an elderly sample without clinical autoimmune disease', Journal of Immunology Research, 2018 (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Pietrogrande G, Mabotuwana N, Zhao Z, Abdolhoseini M, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Chronic stress induced disturbances in Laminin: A significant contributor to modulating microglial pro-inflammatory tone?', BRAIN BEHAVIOR AND IMMUNITY, 68 23-33 (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Gavgani AM, Wong RHX, Howe PRC, Hodgson DM, Walker FR, Nalivaiko E, 'Cybersickness-related changes in brain hemodynamics: A pilot study comparing transcranial Doppler and near-infrared spectroscopy assessments during a virtual ride on a roller coaster.', Physiol Behav, 191 56-64 (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Jones KA, Maltby S, Plank MW, Kluge M, Nilsson M, Foster PS, Walker FR, 'Peripheral immune cells infiltrate into sites of secondary neurodegeneration after ischemic stroke', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 67 299-307 (2018) [C1]
Experimental stroke leads to microglia activation and progressive neuronal loss at sites of secondary neurodegeneration (SND). These lesions are remote from, but synaptically conn... [more]
Experimental stroke leads to microglia activation and progressive neuronal loss at sites of secondary neurodegeneration (SND). These lesions are remote from, but synaptically connected to, primary infarction sites. Previous studies have demonstrated that immune cells are present in sites of infarction in the first hours and days after stroke, and are associated with increased neurodegeneration in peri-infarct regions. However, it is not known whether immune cells are also present in more distal sites where SND occurs. Our study aimed to investigate whether immune cells are present in sites of SND and, if so, how these cell populations compare to those in the peri-infarct zone. Cells were isolated from the thalamus, the main site of SND, and remaining brain tissue 14 days post-stroke. Analysis was performed using flow cytometry to quantify microglia, myeloid cell and lymphocyte numbers. We identified a substantial infiltration of immune cells in the ipsilateral (stroked) compared to the contralateral (control) thalamus, with a significant increase in the percentage of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. This result was further quantified using immunofluorescent labelling of fixed tissue. In the remaining ipsilateral hemisphere tissue, there were significant increases in the frequency of CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes, B lymphocytes, Ly6G+ neutrophils and both Ly6G-Ly6CLO and Ly6G-Ly6CHI monocytes. Our results indicate that infiltrating immune cells persist in ischemic tissue after the acute ischemic phase, and are increased in sites of SND. Importantly, immune cells have been shown to play pivotal roles in both damage and repair processes after stroke. Our findings indicate that immune cells may also be involved in the pathogenesis of SND and further clinical studies are warranted to characterise the nature of inflammatory cell infiltrates in human disease.
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Nova |
2018 |
English C, Janssen H, Crowfoot G, Bourne J, Callister R, Dunn A, et al., 'Frequent, short bouts of light-intensity exercises while standing decreases systolic blood pressure: Breaking Up Sitting Time after Stroke (BUST-Stroke) trial', International Journal of Stroke, 13 932-940 (2018) [C1]
Background: Stroke survivors sit for long periods each day. Uninterrupted sitting is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Breaking up uninterrupted sitting wi... [more]
Background: Stroke survivors sit for long periods each day. Uninterrupted sitting is associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Breaking up uninterrupted sitting with frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity has an immediate positive effect on blood pressure and plasma clotting factors in healthy, overweight, and type 2 diabetic populations. Aim: We examined the effect of frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity on blood pressure and plasma fibrinogen in stroke survivors. Methods: Prespecified secondary analyses from a three-armed randomized, within-participant, crossover trial. Participants were 19 stroke survivors (nine female, aged 68 years old, 90% able to walk independently). The experimental conditions were sitting for 8 h uninterrupted, sitting with 3 min bouts of light-intensity exercise while standing every 30 min, or sitting with 3 min of walking every 30 min. Blood pressure was measured every 30 min over 8 h and plasma fibrinogen at the beginning, middle, and end of each day. Intention-to-treat analyses were performed using linear mixed models including fixed effects for condition, period, and order, and a random intercept for participant to account for repeated measures and missing data. Results: Sitting with 3 min bouts of light-intensity exercise while standing every 30 min decreased systolic blood pressure by 3.5 mmHg (95% CI 1.7¿5.4) compared with sitting for 8 h uninterrupted. For participants not taking antihypertensive medications, sitting with 3 min of walking every 30 min decreased systolic blood pressure by 5.0 mmHg (95% CI -7.9 to 2.0) and sitting with 3 min bouts light-intensity exercise while standing every 30 min decreased systolic blood pressure by 4.2 mmHg (95% CI -7.2 to -1.3) compared with sitting for 8 h uninterrupted. There was no effect of condition on diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.45) or plasma fibrinogen levels (p = 0.91). Conclusion: Frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity decreases systolic blood pressure in stroke survivors. However, before translation into clinical practice, the optimal duration and timing of physical activity bouts needs to be determined. Clinical trial registration: Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry http://www.anzctr.org.au ANZTR12615001189516.
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Nova |
2018 |
English C, Janssen H, Crowfoot G, Callister R, Dunn A, Mackie P, et al., 'Breaking up sitting time after stroke (BUST-stroke)', International Journal of Stroke, 13 921-931 (2018) [C1]
Objectives: People with stroke sit for long periods each day, which may compromise blood glucose control and increase risk of recurrent stroke. Studies in other populations have f... [more]
Objectives: People with stroke sit for long periods each day, which may compromise blood glucose control and increase risk of recurrent stroke. Studies in other populations have found regular activity breaks have a significant immediate (within-day) positive effect on glucose metabolism. We examined the effects of breaking up uninterrupted sitting with frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity in people with stroke on post-prandial plasma glucose and insulin. Methods: Randomized within-participant crossover trial. We included people between 3 months and 10 years post-stroke, ambulant with minimal assistance and not taking diabetic medication other than metformin. The three experimental conditions (completed in random order) were: sitting for 8 h uninterrupted, sitting with 3 min bouts of light-intensity exercise while standing every 30 min, or sitting with 3 min of walking every 30 min. Meals were standardized and bloods were collected half- to one-hourly via an intravenous cannula. Results: A total of 19 participants (9 female, mean [SD] age 68.2 [10.2]) completed the trial. The majority (n = 12, 63%) had mild stroke symptoms (National Institutes of Stroke Scale score 0¿13). There was no significant effect of experimental condition on glucose (mean [SD] positive incremental area [+iAUC] mmol·L·h-1 under the curve during sitting 42.3 [29.5], standing 47.4 [23.1], walking 44.6 [26.5], p = 0.563) or insulin (mean + iAUC pmol·L·h-1 sitting 14,161 [7,560], standing 14,043 [8,312], walking 14,008 [8,269], p = 0.987). Conclusion: Frequent, short bouts of light-intensity physical activity did not have a significant effect on post-prandial plasma glucose and insulin in this sample of people with stroke. Further studies are needed to identify strategies that improve inactivity-related glucose metabolism after stroke.
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Nova |
2018 |
Ong LK, Chow WZ, Tebay C, Kluge M, Pietrogrande G, Zalewska K, et al., 'Growth Hormone Improves Cognitive Function After Experimental Stroke', STROKE, 49 1257-+ (2018) [C1]
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Nova |
2018 |
Duchatel RJ, Meehan CL, Harms LR, Michie PT, Bigland MJ, Smith DW, et al., 'Late gestation immune activation increases IBA1-positive immunoreactivity levels in the corpus callosum of adult rat offspring', Psychiatry Research, 266 175-185 (2018) [C1]
Animal models of maternal immune activation study the effects of infection, an environmental risk factor for schizophrenia, on brain development. Microglia activation and cytokine... [more]
Animal models of maternal immune activation study the effects of infection, an environmental risk factor for schizophrenia, on brain development. Microglia activation and cytokine upregulation may have key roles in schizophrenia neuropathology. We hypothesised that maternal immune activation induces changes in microglia and cytokines in the brains of the adult offspring. Maternal immune activation was induced by injecting polyriboinosinic:polyribocytidylic acid into pregnant rats on gestational day (GD) 10 or GD19, with brain tissue collected from the offspring at adulthood. We observed no change in Iba1, Gfap, IL1-ß and TNF-a mRNA levels in the cingulate cortex (CC) in adult offspring exposed to maternal immune activation. Prenatal exposure to immune activation had a significant main effect on microglial IBA1-positive immunoreactive material (IBA1+IRM) in the corpus callosum; post-hoc analyses identified a significant increase in GD19 offspring, but not GD10. No change in was observed in the CC. In contrast, maternal immune activation had a significant main effect on GFAP+IRM in the CC at GD19 (not GD10); post-hoc analyses only identified a strong trend towards increased GFAP+IRM in the GD19 offspring, with no white matter changes. This suggests late gestation maternal immune activation causes subtle alterations to microglia and astrocytes in the adult offspring.
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Nova |
2018 |
Kluge MG, Jones K, Kooi Ong L, Gowing EK, Nilsson M, Clarkson AN, Walker FR, 'Age-dependent Disturbances of Neuronal and Glial Protein Expression Profiles in Areas of Secondary Neurodegeneration Post-stroke', Neuroscience, 393 185-195 (2018) [C1]
Despite the fact that approximately 80% of strokes occur in those aged over 60 years, many pre-clinical stroke studies have been conducted in younger adult rodents, raising debate... [more]
Despite the fact that approximately 80% of strokes occur in those aged over 60 years, many pre-clinical stroke studies have been conducted in younger adult rodents, raising debate about translation and generalizability of these results. We were interested in potential age differences in stroke-induced secondary neurodegeneration (SND). SND involves the death of neurons in areas remote from, but connected to, the site of infarction, as well as glial disturbances. Here we investigated potential differences in key parameters of SND in the thalamus, a major site of post-stroke SND. Protein expression profiles in young adult (2¿4 months) and aged (22¿23 months) mice were analyzed 28 days after a cortical stroke. Our results show that age reduced the expression of synaptic markers (PSD 95, Synapsin1) and increased Amyloid ß oligomer accumulation after stroke. Protein expression of several markers of glial activity remained relatively stable across age groups post-stroke. We have identified that age exacerbates the severity of SND after stroke. Our results, however, do not support a view that microglia or astrocytes are the main contributors to the enhanced severity of SND in aged mice.
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Nova |
2018 |
Zalewska K, Pietrogrande G, Ong LK, Abdolhoseini M, Kluge M, Johnson SJ, et al., 'Sustained administration of corticosterone at stress-like levels after stroke suppressed glial reactivity at sites of thalamic secondary neurodegeneration', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 69 210-222 (2018) [C1]
Secondary neurodegeneration (SND) is an insidious and progressive condition involving the death of neurons in regions of the brain that were connected to but undamaged by the init... [more]
Secondary neurodegeneration (SND) is an insidious and progressive condition involving the death of neurons in regions of the brain that were connected to but undamaged by the initial stroke. Our group have published compelling evidence that exposure to psychological stress can significantly exacerbate the severity SND, a finding that has considerable clinical implications given that stroke-survivors often report experiencing high and unremitting levels of psychological stress. It may be possible to use one or more targeted pharmacological approaches to limit the negative effects of stress on the recovery process but in order to move forward with this approach the most critical stress signals have to be identified. Accordingly, in the current study we have directed our attention to examining the potential effects of corticosterone, delivered orally at stress-like levels. Our interest is to determine how similar the effects of corticosterone are to stress on repair and remodelling that is known to occur after stroke. The study involved 4 groups, sham and stroke, either administered corticosterone or normal drinking water. The functional impact was assessed using the cylinder task for paw asymmetry, grid walk for sensorimotor function, inverted grid for muscle strength and coordination and open field for anxiety-like behaviour. Biochemically and histologically, we considered disturbances in main cellular elements of the neurovascular unit, including microglia, astrocytes, neurons and blood vessels using both immunohistochemistry and western blotting. In short, we identified that corticosterone delivery after stroke results in significant suppression of key microglial and astroglial markers. No changes were observed on the vasculature and in neuronal specific markers. No changes were identified for sensorimotor function or anxiety-like behaviour. We did, however, observe a significant change in motor function as assessed using the inverted grid walk test. Collectively, these results suggest that pharmacologically targeting corticosterone levels in the future may be warranted but that such an approach is unlikely to limit all the negative effects associated with exposure to chronic stress.
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Nova |
2018 |
Gavgani AM, Walker FR, Hodgson DM, Nalivaiko E, 'A comparative study of cybersickness during exposure to virtual reality and classic motion sickness: Are they different?', Journal of Applied Physiology, 125 1670-1680 (2018) [C1]
Existing evidence suggests that cybersickness may be clinically different from ¿classic,¿ motion-induced sickness; this evidence was, however, obtained in separate studies that fo... [more]
Existing evidence suggests that cybersickness may be clinically different from ¿classic,¿ motion-induced sickness; this evidence was, however, obtained in separate studies that focused on just one of the two conditions. Our aim was to bring clarity to this issue by directly comparing subjective symptoms and physiological effects of motion sickness induced by physical motion (Coriolis cross-coupling) and by immersion in virtual reality (ride on a roller coaster) in the same subjects. A cohort of 30 young, healthy volunteers was exposed to both stimulations in a counterbalanced order on 2 separate days =1 wk apart. Nausea scores were recorded during the exposure, and the Motion Sickness Assessment Questionnaire (MSAQ) was used to profile subjective symptoms postexperiment. Tonic and phasic forehead skin conductance level (SCL) was measured before and during exposure in both stimulation methods. We found that the nausea onset times were significantly correlated in both tests (r 0.40, P 0.03). Similarly, the maximum nausea ratings were significantly correlated during both provocations (r 0.58, P 0.0012). Symptom-profiling with the MSAQ revealed substantial and significant correlations between total symptom scores (r 0.69, P < 0.0001) between each of 4 symptom clusters and between 15/18 individual symptoms assessed in both conditions. Both virtual reality and Coriolis cross-coupling provocations caused an increase in tonic SCL associated with nausea [mean difference (mean diff) 5.1, confidence interval (CI) (2.59, 6.97), P 0.007 and mean diff 1.49, CI (0.47, 7.08), P 0.0001, respectively], with a close correlation between the conditions (r 0.48, P 0.04). This was accompanied by a significant increase in the amplitude of phasic skin conductance transients in both visual stimulation and Coriolis cross-coupling when participants reported maximum nausea compared with no nausea [mean diff 0.27, CI (0.091, 0.63), P < 0.001 and mean diff 0.235, CI (0.053, 0.851), P < 0.006, respectively]. We conclude that symptoms and physiological changes occurring during cybersickness and classic motion sickness are quite similar, at least during advanced stages of these malaises.
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Nova |
2018 |
Williams J, Jones D, Walker R, 'Consideration of using virtual reality for teaching neonatal resuscitation to midwifery students', Nurse Education in Practice, 31 126-129 (2018) [C1]
Within the last decade, there has been significant change in the way tertiary midwifery education has been delivered to students. The use of blended teaching methods and the intro... [more]
Within the last decade, there has been significant change in the way tertiary midwifery education has been delivered to students. The use of blended teaching methods and the introduction of simulated learning experiences has been observed in the literature to improve students¿ self-confidence, competence, clinical judgement and decision-making abilities. Simulation is seen to be particularly important when practising skills that may be infrequently encountered in practice, such as clinical emergencies. Neonatal resuscitation is the most common neonatal emergency encountered within midwifery today, with up to 15% of babies requiring some form of resuscitation at birth. Recent research describes the benefits of using a multi-modal approach to teaching neonatal resuscitation, utilising both theory and simulated learning methods. One emerging method of simulation is that of virtual reality (VR), which has been recognised for its enormous educational potential in risk-free clinical skills training. Currently, however, there is limited research looking at the use of VR in emergency skills training. This article examines the literature to highlight the potential benefits that VR simulation could provide for emergency skills training, as well as the potential challenges that should be acknowledged.
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Nova |
2017 |
Ong LK, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Is Stroke a Neurodegenerative Condition? A Critical Review of Secondary Neurodegeneration and Amyloid-beta Accumulation after Stroke', AIMS MEDICAL SCIENCE, 4 1-16 (2017) [C1]
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Nova |
2017 |
Morán J, Stokowska A, Walker FR, Mallard C, Hagberg H, Pekna M, 'Intranasal C3a treatment ameliorates cognitive impairment in a mouse model of neonatal hypoxic ischemic brain injury', Experimental Neurology, 290 74-84 (2017) [C1]
Perinatal asphyxia-induced brain injury is often associated with irreversible neurological complications such as intellectual disability and cerebral palsy but available therapies... [more]
Perinatal asphyxia-induced brain injury is often associated with irreversible neurological complications such as intellectual disability and cerebral palsy but available therapies are limited. Novel neuroprotective therapies as well as approaches stimulating neural plasticity mechanism that can compensate for cell death after hypoxia¿ischemia (HI) are urgently needed. We previously reported that single i.c.v. injection of complement-derived peptide C3a 1¿h after HI induction prevented HI-induced cognitive impairment when mice were tested as adults. Here, we tested the effects of intranasal treatment with C3a on HI-induced cognitive deficit. Using the object recognition test, we found that intranasal C3a treated mice were protected from HI-induced impairment of memory function assessed 6¿weeks after HI induction. C3a treatment ameliorated HI-induced reactive gliosis in the hippocampus, while it did not affect the extent of hippocampal tissue loss, neuronal cell density, expression of the pan-synaptic marker synapsin I or the expression of growth associated protein 43. In conclusion, our results reveal that brief pharmacological treatment with C3a using a clinically feasible non-invasive mode of administration ameliorates HI-induced cognitive impairment. Intranasal administration is a plausible route to deliver C3a into the brain of asphyxiated infants at high risk of developing hypoxic¿ischemic encephalopathy.
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Nova |
2017 |
Ong LK, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Authors' response re: "Reconsidering the role of glial cells in chronic stress-induced dopa-minergic neurons loss within the substantia nigra? Friend of foe?" by Ong et al. Brain Behavior and Immunity, 2016', BRAIN BEHAVIOR AND IMMUNITY, 60 384-384 (2017)
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2017 |
Ong LK, Zhao Z, Kluge M, Walker FR, Nilsson M, 'Chronic stress exposure following photothrombotic stroke is associated with increased levels of amyloid beta accumulation and altered oligomerisation at sites of thalamic secondary neurodegeneration in mice', Journal of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism, 37 1338-1348 (2017) [C1]
Exposure to severe stress following stroke is recognised to complicate the recovery process. We have identified that stress can exacerbate the severity of post-stroke secondary ne... [more]
Exposure to severe stress following stroke is recognised to complicate the recovery process. We have identified that stress can exacerbate the severity of post-stroke secondary neurodegeneration in the thalamus. In this study, we investigated whether exposure to stress could influence the accumulation of the neurotoxic protein Amyloid-b. Using an experimental model of focal cortical ischemia in adult mice combined with exposure to chronic restraint stress, we examined changes within the contra-and ipsilateral thalamus at six weeks post-stroke using Western blotting and immunohistochemical approaches. Western blotting analysis indicated that stroke was associated with a significant enhancement of the 25 and 50 kDa oligomers within the ipsilateral hemisphere and the 20 kDa oligomer within the contralateral hemisphere. Stroked animals exposed to stress exhibited an additional increase in multiple forms of Amyloid-beta oligomers. Immunohistochemistry analysis confirmed that stroke was associated with a significant accumulation of Amyloid-beta within the thalami of both hemispheres, an effect that was exacerbated in stroke animals exposed to stress. Given that Amyloid-beta oligomers, most notably the 30-40 and 50 kDa oligomers, are recognised to correlate with accelerated cognitive decline, our results suggest that monitoring stress levels in patients recovering from stroke may merit consideration in the future.
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Nova |
2017 |
Ong LK, Zhao Z, Kluge M, TeBay C, Zalewska K, Dickson PW, et al., 'Reconsidering the role of glial cells in chronic stress-induced dopaminergic neurons loss within the substantia nigra? Friend or foe?', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 60 117-125 (2017) [C1]
Exposure to psychological stress is known to seriously disrupt the operation of the substantia nigra (SN) and may in fact initiate the loss of dopaminergic neurons within the SN. ... [more]
Exposure to psychological stress is known to seriously disrupt the operation of the substantia nigra (SN) and may in fact initiate the loss of dopaminergic neurons within the SN. In this study, we aimed to investigate how chronic stress modified the SN in adult male mice. Using a paradigm of repeated restraint stress (an average of 20¿h per week for 6¿weeks), we examined changes within the SN using western blotting and immunohistochemistry. We demonstrated that chronic stress was associated with a clear loss of dopaminergic neurons within the SN. The loss of dopaminergic neurons was accompanied by higher levels of oxidative stress damage, indexed by levels of protein carbonylation and strong suppression of both microglial and astrocytic responses. In addition, we demonstrated for the first time, that chronic stress alone enhanced the aggregation of a-synuclein into the insoluble protein fraction. These results indicate that chronic stress triggered loss of dopaminergic neurons by increasing oxidative stress, suppressing glial neuroprotective functions and enhancing the aggregation of the neurotoxic protein, a-synuclein. Collectively, these results reinforce the negative effects of chronic stress on the viability of dopaminergic cells within the SN.
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Nova |
2017 |
Iseme RA, McEvoy M, Kelly B, Agnew L, Walker FR, Handley T, et al., 'A role for autoantibodies in atherogenesis', CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH, 113 1102-1112 (2017) [C1]
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Nova |
2017 |
Walker FR, Pfingst K, Carnevali L, Sgoifo A, Nalivaiko E, 'In the search for integrative biomarker of resilience to psychological stress', Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 74 310-320 (2017) [C1]
Psychological resilience can be defined as individual's ability to withstand and adapt to adverse and traumatic events. Resilience is traditionally assessed by subjective rep... [more]
Psychological resilience can be defined as individual's ability to withstand and adapt to adverse and traumatic events. Resilience is traditionally assessed by subjective reports, a method that is susceptible to self-report bias. An ideal solution to this challenge is the introduction of standardised and validated physiological and/or biological predictors of resilience. We provide a summary of the major concepts in the field of resilience followed by a detailed critical review of the literature around physiological, neurochemical and immune markers of resilience. We conclude that in future experimental protocols, biological markers of resilience should be assesses both during baseline and during laboratory stressors. In the former case the most promising candidates are represented by heart rate variability and by in vitro immune cells assay; in the latter case¿by startle responses (especially their habituation) during stress challenge and by cardiovascular recovery after stress, and by cortisol, DHEA and cytokine responses. Importantly, they should be used in combination to enhance predictive power.
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Nova |
2017 |
Zhao Z, Ong LK, Johnson S, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Chronic stress induced disruption of the peri-infarct neurovascular unit following experimentally induced photothrombotic stroke.', Journal of cerebral blood flow and metabolism : official journal of the International Society of Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolism, 37 3709-3724 (2017) [C1]
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Nova |
2017 |
Janssen H, Dunstan DW, Bernhardt J, Walker FR, Patterson A, Callister R, et al., 'Breaking up sitting time after stroke (BUST-Stroke)', INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF STROKE, 12 425-429 (2017)
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2017 |
Maclean FL, Wang Y, Walker R, Horne MK, Williams RJ, Nisbet DR, 'Reducing Astrocytic Scarring after Traumatic Brain Injury with a Multifaceted Anti-Inflammatory Hydrogel System', ACS Biomaterials Science and Engineering, 3 2542-2549 (2017) [C1]
Traumatic brain injury results in devastating long-term functional damage due to the growth inhibition of the inflammatory response, and in particular, the complex response of ast... [more]
Traumatic brain injury results in devastating long-term functional damage due to the growth inhibition of the inflammatory response, and in particular, the complex response of astrocytes. Sustained, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory approaches that can attenuate this response are of interest to improve therapeutic outcomes, particularly when combined with a tissue engineering construct that recapitulates the physiological microenvironment to facilitate functional repair. Here, we present a multifaceted, therapeutic extracellular-matrix mimic consisting of a coassembled scaffold with a laminin-inspired self-assembling peptide hydrogel, Fmoc-DIKVAV, and the anti-inflammatory macromolecule, fucoidan. At 7 days post-injury, our novel multicomponent hydrogel system presenting biologically relevant nanofibers and the anti-inflammatory fucoidan attenuated the primary glial scar to half that of a stab (control) injury. Further, the presentation of fucoidan increased the organization of astrocytes within the glial scar, while also significantly changing the morphology of astrocytes distal from the administered hydrogel and further into the parenchyma. This demonstrates that the anti-inflammatory fucoidan, present on the surface of the Fmoc-DIKVAV nanofibers, causes a change in astrocyte phenotype post-injury attenuating "reactive" astrocytosis. For the first time, we present a multicomponent tissue engineering construct to promote a growth-permissive environment in vivo and, thus, increase the potential for repair and regeneration after traumatic brain injury.
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Nova |
2017 |
Huuskonen MT, Tuo QZ, Loppi S, Dhungana H, Korhonen P, McInnes LE, et al., 'The Copper bis(thiosemicarbazone) Complex Cu
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Nova |
2017 |
Kelly B, Iseme R, Mcevoy M, Walker F, Attia B, 'Is osteoporosis an immune-mediated disorder', Bone Reports, 7 121-131 (2017) [C1]
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Nova |
2017 |
Turley JA, Zalewska K, Nilsson M, Walker FR, Johnson SJ, 'An analysis of signal processing algorithm performance for cortical intrinsic optical signal imaging and strategies for algorithm selection', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 7 (2017) [C1]
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Nova |
2017 |
Zalewska K, Ong LK, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Oral administration of corticosterone at stress-like levels drives microglial but not vascular disturbances post-stroke', Neuroscience, 352 30-38 (2017) [C1]
Exposure to chronic stress following stroke has been shown, both clinically and pre-clinically, to impact negatively on the recovery process. While this phenomenon is well establi... [more]
Exposure to chronic stress following stroke has been shown, both clinically and pre-clinically, to impact negatively on the recovery process. While this phenomenon is well established, the specific mechanisms involved have remained largely unexplored. One obvious signaling pathway through which chronic stress may impact on the recovery process is via corticosterone, and its effects on microglial activity and vascular remodeling. In the current study, we were interested in examining how orally delivered corticosterone at a stress-like concentration impacted on microglial activity and vascular remodeling after stroke. We identified that corticosterone administration for two weeks following stroke significantly increased tissue loss and decreased the weight of the spleen and thymus. We also identified that corticosterone administration significantly altered the expression of the key microglial complement receptor, CD11b after stroke. Corticosterone administration did not alter the expression of the vessel basement membrane protein, Collagen IV after stroke. Together, these results suggest that corticosterone is likely to represent only one of the major stress signals responsible for driving the negative impacts of chronic stress on recovery.
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Nova |
2017 |
Maclean FL, Lau CL, Ozergun S, O'Shea RD, Cederfur C, Wang J, et al., 'Galactose-functionalised PCL nanofibre scaffolds to attenuate inflammatory action of astrocytes in vitro and in vivo', Journal of Materials Chemistry B, 5 4073-4083 (2017) [C1]
Astrocytes represent an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of traumatic brain injury in the glial scar, which inhibits functional repair and recovery if persistent. M... [more]
Astrocytes represent an attractive therapeutic target for the treatment of traumatic brain injury in the glial scar, which inhibits functional repair and recovery if persistent. Many biomaterial systems have been investigated for neural tissue engineering applications, including electrospun nanofibres, which are a favourable biomaterial as they can mimic the fibrous architecture of the extracellular matrix, and are conveniently modified to present biologically relevant cues to aid in regeneration. Here, we synthesised a novel galactose-presenting polymer, poly(l-lysine)-lactobionic acid (PLL-LBA), for use in layer-by-layer (LbL) functionalisation of poly(¿-caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibres, to covalently attach galactose moieties to the nanofibre scaffold surface. We have assessed the use of this novel biomaterial system in vitro and in vivo, and have shown, for the first time, the ability of galactose to maintain an attenuated inflammatory profile of astrocytes in culture, and to increase the survival of neurons after traumatic injury, as compared to control PCL nanofibres. This study highlights the importance of galactose in controlling the astrocytic response, and provides a promising biomaterial system to deliver the essential morphological and biological cues to achieve functional repair after traumatic brain injury.
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Nova |
2017 |
Kluge MG, Kracht L, Abdolhoseini M, Ong LK, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Impaired microglia process dynamics post-stroke are specific to sites of secondary neurodegeneration', GLIA, 65 1885-1899 (2017) [C1]
Stroke induces tissue death both at the site of infarction and at secondary sites connected to the primary infarction. This latter process has been referred to as secondary neurod... [more]
Stroke induces tissue death both at the site of infarction and at secondary sites connected to the primary infarction. This latter process has been referred to as secondary neurodegeneration (SND). Using predominantly fixed tissue analyses, microglia have been implicated in regulating the initial response at both damage sites post-stroke. In this study, we used acute slice based multiphoton imaging, to investigate microglia dynamic process movement in mice 14 days after a photothrombotic stroke. We evaluated the baseline motility and process responses to locally induced laser damage in both the peri-infarct (PI) territory and the ipsilateral thalamus, a major site of post-stroke SND. Our findings show that microglia process extension toward laser damage within the thalamus is lost, yet remains robustly intact within the PI territory. However, microglia at both sites displayed an activated morphology and elevated levels of commonly used activation markers (CD68, CD11b), indicating that the standardly used fixed tissue metrics of microglial ¿activity¿ are not necessarily predictive of microglia function. Analysis of the purinergic P2Y12 receptor, a key regulator of microglia process extension, revealed an increased somal localization on nonresponsive microglia in the thalamus. To our knowledge, this is the first study to identify a non-responsive microglia phenotype specific to areas of SND post-stroke, which cannot be identified by the classical assessment of microglia activation but rather the localization of P2Y12 to the soma.
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Nova |
2016 |
Ji P, Schachtschneider KM, Schook LB, Walker FR, Johnson RW, 'Peripheral viral infection induced microglial sensome genes and enhanced microglial cell activity in the hippocampus of neonatal piglets', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 54 243-251 (2016) [C1]
Although poorly understood, early-life infection is predicted to affect brain microglial cells, making them hypersensitive to subsequent stimuli. To investigate this, we assessed ... [more]
Although poorly understood, early-life infection is predicted to affect brain microglial cells, making them hypersensitive to subsequent stimuli. To investigate this, we assessed gene expression in hippocampal tissue obtained from a previously published study reporting increased microglial cell activity and reduced hippocampal-dependent learning in neonatal piglets infected with porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV), a virus that induces interstitial pneumonia. Infection altered expression of 455 genes, of which 334 were up-regulated and 121 were down-regulated. Functional annotation revealed that immune function genes were enriched among the up-regulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs), whereas calcium binding and synaptic vesicle genes were enriched among the down-regulated DEGs. Twenty-six genes encoding part of the microglia sensory apparatus (i.e., the sensome) were up-regulated (e.g., IL1R1, TLR2, and TLR4), whereas 15 genes associated with the synaptosome and synaptic receptors (e.g., NPTX2, GABRA2, and SLC5A7) were down-regulated. As the sensome may foretell microglia reactivity, we next inoculated piglets with culture medium or PRRSV at PD 7 and assessed hippocampal microglia morphology and function at PD 28 when signs of infection were waning. Consistent with amplification of the sensome, microglia from PRRSV piglets had enhanced responsiveness to chemoattractants, increased phagocytic activity, and secreted more TNFa in response to lipopolysaccharide and Poly I:C. Immunohistochemical staining indicated PRRSV infection increased microglia soma length and length-to-width ratio. Bipolar rod-like microglia not evident in hippocampus of control piglets, were present in infected piglets. Collectively, this study suggests early-life infection alters the microglia sensome as well as microglial cell morphology and function.
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Nova |
2016 |
Hollins S, Walker F, cairns M, 'Small RNA regulation of neural gene expression in response to environmental exposure associated with neuropsychiatric syndromes', RNA & DISEASE, 3 (2016) [C1]
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Nova |
2016 |
Walker FR, Yirmiya R, 'Microglia, physiology and behavior: A brief commentary', BRAIN BEHAVIOR AND IMMUNITY, 55 1-5 (2016)
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2016 |
Muccigrosso MM, Ford J, Benner B, Moussa D, Burnsides C, Fenn AM, et al., 'Cognitive deficits develop 1 month after diffuse brain injury and are exaggerated by microglia-associated reactivity to peripheral immune challenge', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 54 95-109 (2016) [C1]
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) elicits immediate neuroinflammatory events that contribute to acute cognitive, motor, and affective disturbance. Despite resolution of these acute com... [more]
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) elicits immediate neuroinflammatory events that contribute to acute cognitive, motor, and affective disturbance. Despite resolution of these acute complications, significant neuropsychiatric and cognitive issues can develop and progress after TBI. We and others have provided novel evidence that these complications are potentiated by repeated injuries, immune challenges and stressors. A key component to this may be increased sensitization or priming of glia after TBI. Therefore, our objectives were to determine the degree to which cognitive deterioration occurred after diffuse TBI (moderate midline fluid percussion injury) and ascertain if glial reactivity induced by an acute immune challenge potentiated cognitive decline 30 days post injury (dpi). In post-recovery assessments, hippocampal-dependent learning and memory recall were normal 7 dpi, but anterograde learning was impaired by 30 dpi. Examination of mRNA and morphological profiles of glia 30 dpi indicated a low but persistent level of inflammation with elevated expression of GFAP and IL-1ß in astrocytes and MHCII and IL-1ß in microglia. Moreover, an acute immune challenge 30 dpi robustly interrupted memory consolidation specifically in TBI mice. These deficits were associated with exaggerated microglia-mediated inflammation with amplified (IL-1ß, CCL2, TNFa) and prolonged (TNFa) cytokine/chemokine expression, and a marked reactive morphological profile of microglia in the CA3 of the hippocampus. Collectively, these data indicate that microglia remain sensitized 30 dpi after moderate TBI and a secondary inflammatory challenge elicits robust microglial reactivity that augments cognitive decline. Statement of Significance: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major risk factor in development of neuropsychiatric problems long after injury, negatively affecting quality of life. Mounting evidence indicates that inflammatory processes worsen with time after a brain injury and are likely mediated by glia. Here, we show that primed microglia and astrocytes developed in mice 1 month following moderate diffuse TBI, coinciding with cognitive deficits that were not initially evident after injury. Additionally, TBI-induced glial priming may adversely affect the ability of glia to appropriately respond to immune challenges, which occur regularly across the lifespan. Indeed, we show that an acute immune challenge augmented microglial reactivity and cognitive deficits. This idea may provide new avenues of clinical assessments and treatments following TBI.
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Nova |
2016 |
Grace PM, Fabisiak TJ, Green-Fulgham SM, Anderson ND, Strand KA, Kwilasz AJ, et al., 'Prior voluntary wheel running attenuates neuropathic pain', Pain, 157 2012-2023 (2016) [C1]
Exercise is known to exert a systemic anti-inflammatory influence, but whether its effects are sufficient to protect against subsequent neuropathic pain is underinvestigated. We r... [more]
Exercise is known to exert a systemic anti-inflammatory influence, but whether its effects are sufficient to protect against subsequent neuropathic pain is underinvestigated. We report that 6 weeks of voluntary wheel running terminating before chronic constriction injury (CCI) prevented the full development of allodynia for the ~3-month duration of the injury. Neuroimmune signaling was assessed at 3 and 14 days after CCI. Prior exercise normalized ipsilateral dorsal spinal cord expression of neuroexcitatory interleukin (IL)-1ß production and the attendant glutamate transporter GLT-1 decrease, as well as expression of the disinhibitory P2X4R-BDNF axis. The expression of the macrophage marker Iba1 and the chemokine CCL2 (MCP-1), and a neuronal injury marker (activating transcription factor 3), was attenuated by prior running in the ipsilateral lumbar dorsal root ganglia. Prior exercise suppressed macrophage infiltration and/or injury site proliferation, given decreased presence of macrophage markers Iba1, iNOS (M1), and Arg-1 (M2; expression was time dependent). Chronic constriction injury-driven increases in serum proinflammatory chemokines were suppressed by prior running, whereas IL-10 was increased. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells were also stimulated with lipopolysaccharide ex vivo, wherein CCI-induced increases in IL-1ß, nitrite, and IL-10 were suppressed by prior exercise. Last, unrestricted voluntary wheel running, beginning either the day of, or 2 weeks after, CCI, progressively reversed neuropathic pain. This study is the first to investigate the behavioral and neuroimmune consequences of regular exercise terminating before nerve injury. This study suggests that chronic pain should be considered a component of "the diseasome of physical inactivity," and that an active lifestyle may prevent neuropathic pain.
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Nova |
2016 |
Reber SO, Siebler PH, Donner NC, Morton JT, Smith DG, Kopelman JM, et al., 'Immunization with a heat-killed preparation of the environmental bacterium Mycobacterium vaccae promotes stress resilience in mice', Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America, 113 E3130-E3139 (2016) [C1]
The prevalence of inflammatory diseases is increasing in modern urban societies. Inflammation increases risk of stress-related pathology; consequently, immunoregulatory or antiinf... [more]
The prevalence of inflammatory diseases is increasing in modern urban societies. Inflammation increases risk of stress-related pathology; consequently, immunoregulatory or antiinflammatory approaches may protect against negative stress-related outcomes. We show that stress disrupts the homeostatic relationship between the microbiota and the host, resulting in exaggerated inflammation. Repeated immunization with a heat-killed preparation of Mycobacterium vaccae, an immunoregulatory environmental microorganism, reduced subordinate, flight, and avoiding behavioral responses to a dominant aggressor in a murine model of chronic psychosocial stress when tested 1-2wk following the final immunization. Furthermore, immunization with M. vaccae prevented stress-induced spontaneous colitis and, in stressed mice, induced anxiolytic or fear-reducing effects as measured on the elevated plus-maze, despite stress-induced gut microbiota changes characteristic of gut infection and colitis. Immunization with M. vaccae also prevented stress-induced aggravation of colitis in a model of inflammatory bowel disease. Depletion of regulatory T cells negated protective effects of immunization with M. vaccae on stress-induced colitis and anxiety-like or fear behaviors. These data provide a framework for developing microbiome- and immunoregulation-based strategies for prevention of stress-related pathologies.
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Nova |
2016 |
Hollins SL, Zavitsanou K, Walker FR, Cairns MJ, 'Alteration of transcriptional networks in the entorhinal cortex after maternal immune activation and adolescent cannabinoid exposure', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 56 187-196 (2016) [C1]
Maternal immune activation (MIA) and adolescent cannabinoid exposure (ACE) have both been identified as major environmental risk factors for schizophrenia. We examined the effects... [more]
Maternal immune activation (MIA) and adolescent cannabinoid exposure (ACE) have both been identified as major environmental risk factors for schizophrenia. We examined the effects of these two risk factors alone, and in combination, on gene expression during late adolescence. Pregnant rats were exposed to the viral infection mimic polyriboinosinic-polyribocytidylic acid (poly I:C) on gestational day (GD) 15. Adolescent offspring received daily injections of the cannabinoid HU210 for 14 days starting on postnatal day (PND) 35. Gene expression was examined in the left entorhinal cortex (EC) using mRNA microarrays. We found prenatal treatment with poly I:C alone, or HU210 alone, produced relatively minor changes in gene expression. However, following combined treatments, offspring displayed significant changes in transcription. This dramatic and persistent alteration of transcriptional networks enriched with genes involved in neurotransmission, cellular signalling and schizophrenia, was associated with a corresponding perturbation in the expression of small non-coding microRNA (miRNA). These results suggest that a combination of environmental exposures during development leads to significant genomic remodeling that disrupts maturation of the EC and its associated circuitry with important implications as the potential antecedents of memory and learning deficits in schizophrenia and other neuropsychiatric disorders.
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Nova |
2016 |
Norden DM, Trojanowski PJ, Walker FR, Godbout JP, 'Insensitivity of astrocytes to interleukin 10 signaling following peripheral immune challenge results in prolonged microglial activation in the aged brain', Neurobiology of Aging, 44 22-41 (2016) [C1]
Immune-activated microglia from aged mice produce exaggerated levels of cytokines. Despite high levels of microglial interleukin (IL)-10 in the aged brain, neuroinflammation was p... [more]
Immune-activated microglia from aged mice produce exaggerated levels of cytokines. Despite high levels of microglial interleukin (IL)-10 in the aged brain, neuroinflammation was prolonged and associated with depressive-like deficits. Because astrocytes respond to IL-10 and, in turn, attenuate microglial activation, we investigated if astrocyte-mediated resolution of microglial activation was impaired with age. Here, aged astrocytes had a dysfunctional profile with higher glial fibrillary acidic protein, lower glutamate transporter expression, and significant cytoskeletal re-arrangement. Moreover, aged astrocytes had reduced expression of growth factors and IL-10 receptor-1 (IL-10R1). After in vivo lipopolysaccharide immune challenge, aged astrocytes had a molecular signature associated with reduced responsiveness to IL-10. This IL-10 insensitivity of aged astrocytes resulted in a failure to induce IL-10R1 and transforming growth factor ß and resolve microglial activation. In addition, adult astrocytes reduced microglial activation when co-cultured ex vivo, whereas aged astrocytes did not. Consistent with the aging studies, IL-10RKO astrocytes did not augment transforming growth factor ß after immune challenge and failed to resolve microglial activation. Collectively, a major cytokine-regulatory loop between activated microglia and astrocytes is impaired in the aged brain.
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Nova |
2015 |
Johnson SJ, Walker FR, 'Strategies to improve quantitative assessment of immunohistochemical and immunofluorescent labelling', SCIENTIFIC REPORTS, 5 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2015 |
Kongsui R, Johnson SJ, Graham BA, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'A combined cumulative threshold spectra and digital reconstruction analysis reveal structural alterations of microglia within the prefrontal cortex following low-dose LPS administration', Neuroscience, 310 629-640 (2015) [C1]
Sickness behaviors have become the focus of great interest in recent years as they represent a clear case of how peripheral disturbances in immune signaling can disrupt quite comp... [more]
Sickness behaviors have become the focus of great interest in recent years as they represent a clear case of how peripheral disturbances in immune signaling can disrupt quite complex behaviors. In the current study, we were interested in examining whether we could identify any significant morphological disturbances in microglia associated with these sickness-like behaviors in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. We chose lipopolysaccharide (LPS 100 µg/kg/i.p.), to induce sickness-like behaviors as it is the most well-validated approach to do so in rodents and humans. We were particularly interested in examining changes in microglia within the prefrontal cortex (PFC) as several recent neuroimaging studies have highlighted significant functional changes in this region following peripheral LPS administration. Paraformaldehyde-fixed tissue was collected from animals 24 h post LPS administration and labeled immunohistochemically with an antibody directed to bind to Iba-1, a protein known to be involved in the structural remodeling of microglia. To analyze changes, we have made use of two recently described image analysis procedures. The first is known as cumulative threshold spectra (CTS) analysis. The second involves the unsupervised digital reconstruction of microglia. We undertook these complementary analysis of microglial cells in the both the pre- and infralimbic divisions of the PFC. Our results indicated that microglial soma size was significantly enlarged, while cell processes had contracted slightly following LPS administration. To our knowledge this study is to first to definitely demonstrate substantial microglial disturbances within the PFC following LPS delivered at a dose that was sufficient to induce significant sickness-like behavior.
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Nova |
2015 |
Patience MJ, Zouikr I, Jones K, Clarkson AN, Isgaard J, Johnson SJ, et al., 'Photothrombotic Stroke Induces Persistent Ipsilateral and Contralateral Astrogliosis in Key Cognitive Control Nuclei', NEUROCHEMICAL RESEARCH, 40 362-371 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2015 |
Jones KA, Zouikr I, Patience M, Clarkson AN, Isgaard J, Johnson SJ, et al., 'Chronic stress exacerbates neuronal loss associated with secondary neurodegeneration and suppresses microglial-like cells following focal motor cortex ischemia in the mouse', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 48 57-67 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2015 |
Clarkson AN, Parker K, Nilsson M, Walker FR, Gowing EK, 'Combined ampakine and BDNF treatments enhance poststroke functional recovery in aged mice via AKT-CREB signaling.', J Cereb Blood Flow Metab, 35 1272-1279 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2015 |
Mayhew J, Beart PM, Walker FR, 'Astrocyte and microglial control of glutamatergic signalling: a primer on understanding the disruptive role of chronic stress.', J Neuroendocrinol, 27 498-506 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2015 |
Iseme RA, McEvoy M, Kelly B, Agnew L, Attia J, Walker FR, et al., 'Autoantibodies are not predictive markers for the development of depressive symptoms in a population-based cohort of older adults', European Psychiatry, 30 694-700 (2015) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Iseme RA, McEvoy M, Kelly B, Agnew L, Attia J, Walker FR, 'Autoantibodies and depression. Evidence for a causal link?', Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 40 62-79 (2014) [C1]
Depression is a leading contributor to the global burden of diseases. Despite advances in research, challenges still exist in managing this disorder. Sufferers of autoimmune disea... [more]
Depression is a leading contributor to the global burden of diseases. Despite advances in research, challenges still exist in managing this disorder. Sufferers of autoimmune diseases are often observed to suffer from depression more often than healthy individuals, an association that cannot be completely accounted for by the impact of the disease on the individual. An association between autoimmunity and depressive symptoms also appears to exist in populations with subclinical symptoms. Moreover, researchers have successfully developed murine models illustrating the ability of autoantibodies to induce depressive-like symptoms. This paper will provide an overview of the association between autoantibodies and occurrence of depressive symptoms. Though current evidence appears to support a role for autoantibodies in the pathogenesis of depression, the majority of studies have examined this relationship cross-sectionally, therefore failing to establish a temporal association. Nonetheless, this novel theory meshes with older and newer neurochemical theories of depression. A better understanding of the immuno-pathogenesis underlying depression presents opportunities for more targeted treatment approaches and more timely and appropriate measures of detection. © 2014 Elsevier Ltd.
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Nova |
2014 |
Walker FR, Jones KA, Patience MJ, Zhao Z, Nilsson M, 'Stress as necessary component of realistic recovery in animal models of experimental stroke', JOURNAL OF CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW AND METABOLISM, 34 208-214 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Radler ME, Wright BJ, Walker FR, Hale MW, Kent S, 'Calorie restriction increases lipopolysaccharide-induced neuropeptide Y immunolabeling and reduces microglial cell area in the arcuate hypothalamic nucleus.', Neuroscience, 285 236-247 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Walker FR, Beynon SB, Jones KA, Zhao Z, Kongsui R, Cairns M, Nilsson M, 'Dynamic structural remodelling of microglia in health and disease: A review of the models, the signals and the mechanisms', BRAIN BEHAVIOR AND IMMUNITY, 37 1-14 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Kongsui R, Beynon SB, Johnson SJ, Mayhew J, Kuter P, Nilsson M, Walker FR, 'Chronic stress induces prolonged suppression of the P2X7 receptor within multiple regions of the hippocampus: A cumulative threshold spectra analysis', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 42 69-80 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Hollins SL, Goldie BJ, Carroll AP, Mason EA, Walker FR, Eyles DW, Cairns MJ, 'Ontogeny of small RNA in the regulation of mammalian brain development', BMC GENOMICS, 15 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Hollins SL, Zavitsanou K, Walker FR, Cairns MJ, 'Alteration of imprinted Dlk1-Dio3 miRNA cluster expression in the entorhinal cortex induced by maternal immune activation and adolescent cannabinoid exposure.', Transl Psychiatry, 4 e452 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
James MH, Campbell EJ, Walker FR, Smith DW, Richardson HN, Hodgson DM, Dayas CV, 'Exercise reverses the effects of early life stress on orexin cell reactivity in male but not female rats', Frontiers in Behavioral Neuroscience, 8 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Kongsui R, Beynon SB, Johnson SJ, Walker FR, 'Quantitative assessment of microglial morphology and density reveals remarkable consistency in the distribution and morphology of cells within the healthy prefrontal cortex of the rat', JOURNAL OF NEUROINFLAMMATION, 11 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2014 |
Walker FR, James MH, Hickie IB, McGorry PD, 'Clinical staging: a necessary step in the development of improved animal models of mood disturbance?', Int J Neuropsychopharmacol, 17 491-495 (2014) [C1]
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Nova |
2013 |
Tynan RJ, Beynon SB, Hinwood M, Johnson SJ, Nilsson M, Woods JJ, Walker FR, 'Chronic stress-induced disruption of the astrocyte network is driven by structural atrophy and not loss of astrocytes', Acta Neuropathologica, 126 75-91 (2013) [C1]
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Nova |
2013 |
Walker FR, 'A critical review of the mechanism of action for the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors: Do these drugs possess anti-inflammatory properties and how relevant is this in the treatment of depression?', NEUROPHARMACOLOGY, 67 304-317 (2013) [C1]
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Nova |
2013 |
Bobrovskaya L, Beard D, Bondarenko E, Beig MI, Jobling P, Walker FR, et al., 'Does exposure to chronic stress influence blood pressure in rats?', AUTONOMIC NEUROSCIENCE-BASIC & CLINICAL, 177 217-223 (2013) [C1]
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Nova |
2013 |
Hinwood M, Tynan RJ, Charnley JL, Beynon SB, Day TA, Walker FR, 'Chronic Stress Induced Remodeling of the Prefrontal Cortex: Structural Re-Organization of Microglia and the Inhibitory Effect of Minocycline', CEREBRAL CORTEX, 23 1784-1797 (2013) [C1]
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Nova |
2013 |
Walker FR, Nilsson M, Jones K, 'Acute and Chronic Stress-Induced Disturbances of Microglial Plasticity, Phenotype and Function', Current Drug Targets, 14 1262-1276 (2013) [C1]
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Nova |
2012 |
Sominsky Bar L, Walker AK, Ong LK, Tynan R, Walker FR, Hodgson DM, 'Increased microglial activation in the rat brain following neonatal exposure to a bacterial mimetic', Behavioural Brain Research, 226 351-356 (2012) [C1]
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Nova |
2012 |
Beynon SB, Walker FR, 'Microglial activation in the injured and healthy brain: What are we really talking about? Practical and theoretical issues associated with the measurement of changes in microglial morphology', Neuroscience, 225 162-171 (2012) [C1]
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Nova |
2012 |
Tynan R, Weidenhofer JC, Hinwood M, Cairns MJ, Day TA, Walker FR, 'A comparative examination of the anti-inflammatory effects of SSRI and SNRI antidepressants on LPS stimulated microglia', Brain Behavior and Immunity, 26 469-479 (2012) [C1]
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Nova |
2012 |
Hinwood M, Morandini J, Day TA, Walker FR, 'Evidence that microglia mediate the neurobiological effects of chronic psychological stress on the medial prefrontal cortex', Cerebral Cortex, 22 1442-1454 (2012) [C1]
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Nova |
2012 |
Barreto RDA, Walker FR, Dunkley PR, Day TA, Smith DW, 'Fluoxetine prevents development of an early stress-related molecular signature in the rat infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex. Implications for depression?', BMC Neuroscience, 13 1-12 (2012) [C1]
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Nova |
2011 |
Beig MI, Callister R, Saint DA, Bondarenko E, Walker FR, Day TA, Nalivaiko E, 'Voluntary exercise does not affect stress-induced tachycardia, but improves resistance to cardiac arrhythmias in rats', Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology, 38 19-26 (2011) [C1]
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Nova |
2011 |
Carnevali L, Bondarenko E, Sgoifo A, Walker FR, Head GA, Lukoshkova EV, et al., 'Metyrapone and fluoxetine suppress enduring behavioral but not cardiac effects of subchronic stress in rats', American Journal of Physiology-Regulatory Integrative and Comparative Physiology, 301 R1123-R1131 (2011) [C1]
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Nova |
2011 |
Ong LK, Bobrovskaya L, Walker FR, Day TA, Dickson PW, Dunkley PR, 'The effect of social defeat on tyrosine hydroxylase phosphorylation in the rat brain and adrenal gland', Neurochemical Research, 36 27-33 (2011) [C1]
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Nova |
2011 |
Hinwood M, Tynan R, Day TA, Walker FR, 'Repeated social defeat selectively increases DeltaFosB expression and histone H3 acetylation in the infralimbic medial prefrontal cortex', Cerebral Cortex, 21 262-271 (2011) [C1]
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Nova |
2010 |
Hodyl NA, Walker FR, Krivanek K, Clifton VL, Hodgson DM, 'Prenatal endotoxin exposure alters behavioural pain responses to lipopolysaccharide in adult offspring', Physiology & Behavior, 100 143-147 (2010) [C1]
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Nova |
2010 |
Kabir MM, Beig MI, Baumert M, Trombini M, Mastorci F, Sgoifo A, et al., 'Respiratory pattern in awake rats: Effects of motor activity and of alerting stimuli', Physiology and Behavior, 101 22-31 (2010) [C1]
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Nova |
2010 |
Mackenzie LJ, Nalivaiko E, Beig MI, Day TA, Walker FR, 'Ability of predator odour exposure to elicit conditioned versus sensitised post traumatic stress disorder-like behaviours, and forebrain dFosB expression, in rats', Neuroscience, 169 733-742 (2010) [C1]
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Nova |
2010 |
Tynan R, Naicker S, Hinwood M, Nalivaiko E, Buller KM, Pow DV, et al., 'Chronic stress alters the density and morphology of microglia in a subset of stress-responsive brain regions', Brain Behavior and Immunity, 24 1058-1068 (2010) [C1]
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Nova |
2009 |
Walker FR, Hodyl NA, Hodgson DM, 'Neonatal bacterial endotoxin challenge interacts with stress in the adult male rat to modify KLH specific antibody production but not KLH stimulated ex vivo cytokine release', Journal of Neuroimmunology, 207 57-65 (2009) [C1]
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Nova |
2009 |
Walker FR, Masters LM, Dielenberg R, Day TA, 'Coping with defeat: Acute glucocorticoid and forebrain responses to social defeat vary with defeat episode behaviour', Neuroscience, 162 244-253 (2009) [C1]
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Nova |
2009 |
Beig MI, Baumert M, Walker FR, Day TA, Nalivaiko E, 'Blockade of 5-HT2A receptors suppresses hyperthermic but not cardiovascular responses to psychosocial stress in rats', Neuroscience, 159 1185-1191 (2009) [C1]
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Nova |
2009 |
Walker FR, Naicker S, Hinwood M, Dunn N, Day TA, 'Strain differences in coping behaviour, novelty seeking behaviour, and susceptibility to socially conditioned fear: A comparison between Wistar and Sprague Dawley rats', Stress: The International Journal on the Biology of Stress, 12 507-516 (2009) [C1]
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Nova |
2008 |
Walker FR, Knott BG, Hodgson DM, 'Neonatal endotoxin exposure modifies the acoustic startle response and circulating levels of corticosterone in the adult rat but only following acute stress', Journal of Psychiatric Research, 42 1094-1103 (2008) [C1]
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Nova |
2008 |
Walker FR, Hinwood M, Masters LM, Dielenberg R, Day TA, 'Individual differences predict susceptibility to conditioned fear arising from psychosocial trauma', Journal of Psychiatric Research, 42 371-383 (2008) [C1]
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Nova |
2007 |
Day TA, Walker FR, 'More appraisal please: A commentary on Pfaff et al. (2007) 'Relations between mechanisms of CNS arousal and mechanisms of stress'', Stress: The International Journal on the Biology of Stress, 10 311-313 (2007) [C1]
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2007 |
Hodyl NA, Walker FR, Krivanek K, Clifton VL, Hodgson DM, 'Modelling prenatal bacterial infection: Functional consequences of altered hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis development', Behavioral Brain Research, 178 108-114 (2007) [C1]
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2006 |
Walker FR, Owens J, Ali S, Hodgson DM, 'Individual differences in glucose homeostasis: Do our early life interactions with bacteria matter?', Brain Behavior and Immunity, 20 401-409 (2006) [C1]
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Nova |
2006 |
Walker FR, Hodyl NA, Krivanek K, Hodgson DM, 'Early life host-bacteria relations and development: Long-term individual differences in neuroimmune function following neonatal endotoxin challenge', Physiology & Behavior, 87 126-134 (2006) [C1]
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2004 |
Walker FR, Hodgson DM, 'Interactions between the newborn and the early life microbial environment alter the development of anxiety-like behaviour in the Fischer 344 Rat', Australian Journal of Psychology, 56 232 (2004) [C3]
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2004 |
Walker FR, Brogan AE, Smith R, Hodgson DM, 'A profile of the immediate endocrine, metabolic and behavioural responses following a dual exposure to endotoxin in early life', Physiology & Behavior, 83 495-504 (2004) [C1]
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Nova |
2004 |
Walker FR, March JR, Hodgson DM, 'Endotoxin exposure in early life alters the development of anxiety-like behaviour in the Fischer 344 rat', Behavioural Brain Research, 154 63-69 (2004) [C1]
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Nova |
2004 |
Walker FR, Hodyl NA, Hodgson DM, 'The effect of postnatal endotoxin exposure on nociception in adulthood: hyper-analgesia following immune challenge', Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 18 CD (2004) [C3]
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2004 |
Hodyl NA, Walker FR, Mears CEP, Hume KA, Hodgson DM, 'Prenatal exposure to endotoxin in the Fischer 344 rat: consequences for neuroendocrine and immune function, and nocieptive thresholds in the offspring', Brian, Behavior, and Immunity, 18 CD (2004) [C3]
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2003 |
Hodyl NA, Walker FR, Hodgson DM, 'Prenatal exposure to bacteria alters foetal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal development', Australian Journal of Psychology, 55 215 (2003) [C3]
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2001 |
Hodgson DM, Knott BG, Walker FR, 'Neonatal Endotoxin Exposure Influences HPA Responsivity and Impairs Tumour Immunity in Fischer 344 Rats in Adulthood', Pediatric Research, 50:6 750-755 (2001) [C1]
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Nova |