The cartilaginous endplates (CEPs) are thin layers of hyaline cartilage found adjacent to intervertebral discs (IVDs).In addition to providing structural support, CEPs regulate nutrient and metabolic exchange in the disc.In IVD pathogenesis, CEP undergoes degeneration and calcification, compromising nutrient availability and disc cell metabolism.Th
Abstract Background Although HIV counseling and testing (HCT) is widely considered an integral component of HIV prevention and treatment strategies, few studies have examined HCT behavior among youth in sub-Saharan Africa-a group at substantial risk for HIV infection.In this paper we examine: the correlates of HIV testing, including whether associa
Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) is an ongoing worldwide public health concern.Genetic factors contribute to multiple OUD-related Glitter Coffee Mug phenotypes, such as opioid-induced analgesia, initiation of opioid use, and opioid dependence.Here, we present findings from a behavioral phenotyping protocol using male and female rats from 15 genetically di
Abstract We review existing information on the epidemiology of American Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (ACL) in Panama, with emphasis on the bionomics of anthropophilic Lutzomyia sand fly species.Evidence from Panamanian studies suggests that there are six anthropophilic species in the country: Lutzomyia trapidoi, Lu.panamensis, Lu.gomezi, Lu.ylephiletor,