1
|
Abstract
Loss of ankle movement is a complication of severe tibial fractures. This can be exacerbated if the foot is allowed to drop into equinus, particularly when an external fixator is employed. The range of ankle motion following external fixation of tibial fractures as compared to the opposite normal ankle was studied in 40 of 55 patients treated over a ten-year period. Nine were excluded due to other causes of ankle stiffness, leaving 31 cases for analysis. The mean follow up was 2 years 7 months (range 1 year to 8 years 3 months), and union had occurred by a mean of 35 weeks (range 9–100 weeks). The mean loss of ankle movement was 8° of plantar-flexion and 12° of dorsiflexion (overall loss 20°), the difference between the two being highly significant (P> 0.001, t test). Loss of ankle motion closely paralleled the degree of soft tissue trauma, being 6° for closed fractures and 22° for open fractures (0.05 > P> 0.02). Ankle function is therefore at risk when a severe tibial fracture is treated by external fixation, and appropriate measures should be taken to preserve movement and prevent an equinus contracture.
Collapse
|
2
|
Jansen JC, Andrews-Hanna JC, Li Y, Lucey PG, Taylor GJ, Goossens S, Lemoine FG, Mazarico E, Head JW, Milbury C, Kiefer WS, Soderblom JM, Zuber MT. Small-scale density variations in the lunar crust revealed by GRAIL. ICARUS 2016; 291:107-123. [PMID: 32908319 PMCID: PMC7477950 DOI: 10.1016/j.icarus.2017.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Data from the Gravity Recovery and Interior Laboratory (GRAIL) mission have revealed that ~98% of the power of the gravity signal of the Moon at high spherical harmonic degrees correlates with the topography. The remaining 2% of the signal, which cannot be explained by topography, contains information about density variations within the crust. These high-degree Bouguer gravity anomalies are likely caused by small-scale (10's of km) shallow density variations. Here we use gravity inversions to model the small-scale three-dimensional variations in the density of the lunar crust. Inversion results from three non-descript areas yield shallow density variations in the range of 100-200 kg/m3. Three end-member scenarios of variations in porosity, intrusions into the crust, and variations in bulk crustal composition were tested as possible sources of the density variations. We find that the density anomalies can be caused entirely by changes in porosity. Characteristics of density anomalies in the South Pole-Aitken basin also support porosity as a primary source of these variations. Mafic intrusions into the crust could explain many, but not all of the anomalies. Additionally, variations in crustal composition revealed by spectral data could only explain a small fraction of the density anomalies. Nevertheless, all three sources of density variations likely contribute. Collectively, results from this study of GRAIL gravity data, combined with other studies of remote sensing data and lunar samples, show that the lunar crust exhibits variations in density by ±10% over scales ranging from centimeters to 100's of kilometers.
Collapse
|
3
|
Aujla RS, Bryson DJ, Gulihar A, Taylor GJ. Trends in orthopaedic antimicrobial prophylaxis in the UK between 2005 and 2011. Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2013; 95:495-502. [PMID: 24112496 DOI: 10.1308/003588413x13629960047038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Antimicrobial prophylaxis remains the most powerful tool used to reduce infection rates in orthopaedics but the choice of antibiotic is complex. The aim of this study was to examine trends in antimicrobial prophylaxis in orthopaedic surgery involving the insertion of metalwork between 2005 and 2011. METHODS Two questionnaires (one in 2008 and one in 2011) were sent to all National Health Service trusts in the UK using the Freedom of Information Act. RESULTS In total, 87% of trusts that perform orthopaedic surgery responded. The use of cefuroxime more than halved between 2005 and 2011 from 80% to 36% and 78% to 26% in elective surgery and trauma surgery respectively. Combination therapy with flucloxacillin and gentamicin rose from 1% to 32% in elective and 1% to 34% in trauma surgery. Other increasingly popular regimes include teicoplanin and gentamicin (1% to 10% in elective, 1% to 6% in trauma) and co-amoxiclav (3% to 8% in elective, 4% to 14% in trauma). The majority of changes occurred between 2008 and 2010. Over half (56%) of the trusts stated that Clostridium difficile was the main reason for changing regimes. CONCLUSIONS In 2008 a systematic review involving 11,343 participants failed to show a difference in surgical site infections when comparing different antimicrobial prophylaxis regimes in orthopaedic surgery. Concerns over C difficile and methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus have influenced antimicrobial regimes in both trauma and elective surgery. Teicoplanin would be an appropriate choice for antimicrobial prophylaxis in both trauma and elective units but this is not reflected in its current level of popularity.
Collapse
|
4
|
Wiebe K, Harris NS, Faris JD, Clarke JM, Knox RE, Taylor GJ, Pozniak CJ. Targeted mapping of Cdu1, a major locus regulating grain cadmium concentration in durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var durum). TAG. THEORETICAL AND APPLIED GENETICS. THEORETISCHE UND ANGEWANDTE GENETIK 2010; 121:1047-58. [PMID: 20559817 DOI: 10.1007/s00122-010-1370-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2010] [Accepted: 05/21/2010] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Some durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. var durum) cultivars have the genetic propensity to accumulate cadmium (Cd) in the grain. A major gene controlling grain Cd concentration designated as Cdu1 has been reported on 5B, but the genetic factor(s) conferring the low Cd phenotype are currently unknown. The objectives of this study were to saturate the chromosomal region harboring Cdu1 with newly developed PCR-based markers and to investigate the colinearity of this wheat chromosomal region with rice (Oryza sativa L.) and Brachypodium distachyon genomes. Genetic mapping of markers linked to Cdu1 in a population of recombinant inbred substitution lines revealed that the gene(s) associated with variation in Cd concentration resides in wheat bin 5BL9 between fraction breakpoints 0.76 and 0.79. Genetic mapping and quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of grain Cd concentration was performed in 155 doubled haploid lines from the cross W9262-260D3 (low Cd) by Kofa (high Cd) revealed two expressed sequence tag markers (ESMs) and one sequence tagged site (STS) marker that co-segregated with Cdu1 and explained >80% of the phenotypic variation in grain Cd concentration. A second, minor QTL for grain Cd concentration was also identified on 5B, 67 cM proximal to Cdu1. The Cdu1 interval spans 286 kbp of rice chromosome 3 and 282 kbp of Brachypodium chromosome 1. The markers and rice and Brachypodium colinearity described here represent tools that will assist in the positional cloning of Cdu1 and can be used to select for low Cd accumulation in durum wheat breeding programs targeting this trait. The isolation of Cdu1 will further our knowledge of Cd accumulation in cereals as well as metal accumulation in general.
Collapse
|
5
|
Fox FE, Taylor GJ, Harris MF, Rodham KJ, Sutton J, Scott J, Robinson B. "It's crucial they're treated as patients": ethical guidance and empirical evidence regarding treating doctor-patients. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2010; 36:7-11. [PMID: 20026686 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2008.029066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Ethical guidance from the British Medical Association (BMA) about treating doctor-patients is compared and contrasted with evidence from a qualitative study of general practitioners (GPs) who have been patients. Semistructured interviews were conducted with 17 GPs who had experienced a significant illness. Their experiences were discussed and issues about both being and treating doctor-patients were revealed. Interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to evaluate the data. In this article data extracts are used to illustrate and discuss three key points that summarise the BMA ethical guidance, in order to develop a picture of how far experiences map onto guidance. The data illustrate and extend the complexities of the issues outlined by the BMA document. In particular, differences between experienced GPs and those who have recently completed their training are identified. This analysis will be useful for medical professionals both when they themselves are unwell and when they treat doctor-patients. It will also inform recommendations for professionals who educate medical students or trainees.
Collapse
|
6
|
Greyling JPC, Taylor GJ. The effect of the anabolic agent, nandrolone laurate, on certain production and reproduction parameters in ram lambs, under intensive and extensibe feeding regimes. S AFR J ANIM SCI 2009. [DOI: 10.4314/sajas.v29i3.44199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
7
|
Taylor GJ, Swanepoel FJC, Webb EC, Stroebel A. Effect of heifer frame size on their subsequent reproductive performance and preweaning performance of their calves. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1071/ea08060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The effects of heifer frame size on subsequent performance and the preweaning growth of calves were evaluated using records collected from the Waterburg Estates at Otjiwarongo, Namibia. Based on hip height at 18 months of age, heifers were assigned to three different frame size groups: small (<124 cm), medium (124 to 135 cm), or large (>135 cm). Calving rate (CR), calving date (CD), postnatal calf survival rate (CSR), reproductive efficiency (Sandex), weaning rate (WR), birthweight (BW), weaning weight (WT) and preweaning average daily gain (ADG) were collected from first (n = 830), second (n = 623) and third and greater parity (n = 571) cows. Frame size of heifers significantly influenced (P < 0.001) CR in second and third and greater parity. The postnatal CSR was similar for all frame size and parity groups. WR of large frame size, second-parity cows was less (P < 0.001) than that of small and medium frame size animals. Birthweights of calves born to large frame size animals were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than the small and medium frame size animals. Small frame size animals, as first parity cows, had calves with lower (P < 0.05) WT than those weaned by medium and larger frame size animals. In first parity cows, calves of large frame size had greater ADG (P < 0.05), but in second parity cows the calves from medium frame size (P < 0.05) out performed those of small and large frame size, while calves from third and greater parity cows of medium and larger frame size had greater (P < 0.05) ADG than cows with a small frame size. Male calves were heavier (P < 0.05) at birth, at weaning and grew faster (ADG) than their female counterparts. Due to the later calving dates (P < 0.05), the reproductive efficiency (Sandex) of large frame size at second and third and greater parity groups was lower (P < 0.001). Therefore, selecting cattle for the extensive hot and dry climatic regions of Southern Africa, the recommended cow frame size should be a medium frame.
Collapse
|
8
|
Swanepoel FJC, Taylor GJ, Webb EC, Stroebel A. Effect of nutrition on testicular traits of tropically adapted yearling beef bulls. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2008. [DOI: 10.1071/ea08059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The effects of different management practices on testicular development of young Bonsmara bulls fed a high energy (HE), medium energy (ME) and low energy (LE) diet after weaning were determined. Testicular histology and seminal traits were examined together with scrotal circumference (SC) development over an 84-day performance test trial period. The SC differed significantly (P < 0.001) between HE-, ME- and LE-fed bulls. Seminal traits, such as semen concentration were significantly (P < 0.001) lower in bulls fed the HE diet (1.3 ± 0.134) compared with those fed the ME diet (2.4 ± 0.18) and LE diet (2.6 ± 0.16). Similarly, linear movement of sperm was also affected by diet and movement was slower (P < 0.05) in bulls fed the HE diet (1.7 ± 0.30) compared with bulls fed the ME diet (2.2 ± 0.31) and LE diet (3.1 ± 0.23). The percentage total major (P < 0.001) and total minor (P < 0.05) sperm defects were also greater in the HE-fed bulls (27.1 ± 6.82 and 7.4 ± 0.91) compared with the ME-fed bulls (9.7 ± 1.45 and 5.5 ± 0.87) and for the LE-fed bulls (5.4 ± 1.26 and 3.9 ± 0.58). Dietary energy level (P < 0.05) influenced the percentage inactive seminiferous tubuli, with bulls fed the HE diet having 35% more seminiferous tubules classified as inactive compared with those bulls fed ME and LE diets. Scrotal fat deposits were higher (P < 0.05) in bulls fed the HE diet (243.4 ± 21.59 g) compared with those fed the ME (110.0 ± 12.1 g) and LE (88.4 ± 9.65 g) diets. Feeding HE diets to young bulls probably reduces their reproductive potential.
Collapse
|
9
|
Boynton WV, Taylor GJ, Evans LG, Reedy RC, Starr R, Janes DM, Kerry KE, Drake DM, Kim KJ, Williams RMS, Crombie MK, Dohm JM, Baker V, Metzger AE, Karunatillake S, Keller JM, Newsom HE, Arnold JR, Brückner J, Englert PAJ, Gasnault O, Sprague AL, Mitrofanov I, Squyres SW, Trombka JI, d'Uston L, Wänke H, Hamara DK. Concentration of H, Si, Cl, K, Fe, and Th in the low- and mid-latitude regions of Mars. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1029/2007je002887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 234] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
10
|
Nixon MF, Ibrahim T, Johari Y, Eltayef S, Hariharan D, Taylor GJ. Managing osteoporosis in patients with fragility fractures: did the British Orthopaedic Association guidelines have any impact? Ann R Coll Surg Engl 2007; 89:504-9. [PMID: 17688724 PMCID: PMC2048599 DOI: 10.1308/003588407x187630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The incidence of fragility fractures could double in the next 50 years. Effective treatments for osteoporosis exist and the British Orthopaedic Association (BOA) has guidelines governing how to manage underlying osteoporosis in patients with fragility fractures. This study assessed how well two trauma units treat underlying osteoporosis and whether the BOA guidelines made any impact. PATIENTS AND METHODS Case notes of patients with a fracture of their proximal femur admitted during January and February in 2003, 2004 and 2005 were reviewed. The results were analysed for differences between site and year. RESULTS A total of 602 case notes were reviewed. There was a significant difference in the number of patients discharged on osteoporosis medication between the two sites (27% at LRI, 8% at KGH; P < 0.001), but not between 2003 and 2005 (22% and 16%; P = 0.16). Of the patients started on treatment, 83% were started on calcium and/or vitamin D(3) supplements. CONCLUSIONS The number of patients who had their underlying osteoporosis addressed was low and the type of treatment sub-optimal. This suggests the BOA guidelines have not made an impact and further work is required to improve the management of these patients.
Collapse
|
11
|
Keller JM, Boynton WV, Karunatillake S, Baker VR, Dohm JM, Evans LG, Finch MJ, Hahn BC, Hamara DK, Janes DM, Kerry KE, Newsom HE, Reedy RC, Sprague AL, Squyres SW, Starr RD, Taylor GJ, Williams RMS. Equatorial and midlatitude distribution of chlorine measured by Mars Odyssey GRS. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.1029/2006je002679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
|
12
|
El-Wakeel H, Taylor GJ, Tate JJT. What do patients really want to know in an informed consent procedure? A questionnaire-based survey of patients in the Bath area, UK. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ETHICS 2006; 32:612-6. [PMID: 17012508 PMCID: PMC2563305 DOI: 10.1136/jme.2005.013334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Medical decision making is based on patient autonomy and informed consent, which is an integral part of medical ethics, risk management and clinical governance. Consent to treatment has been extensively discussed, but the viewpoint of patients is not well represented. A new consent form was introduced by the Department of Health in 2001. AIMS To determine the information most important to patients, to facilitate evidence-based guidelines and to provide a valid and reliable consent-procedure-satisfaction questionnaire. METHODS An anonymous quantitative survey was carried out, asking 100 patients 15 questions regarding procedures they may need to undergo, using a Visual Analogue Scale to test the importance of each question. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION In total there were 77 respondents and the mean age was 48.8 (SD 17.63, range 20-82) years. There were 52% women and 48% men. Major complications, such as not undergoing the procedure, future management and long-term effect on work, all scored a median of 95%. Least concerns were related to technical details of the procedure and minor complications (median 64% and 63%, respectively). All other questions were still considered important (median 79-93%). No significant differences were observed between sex, age and professional groups, but a significant difference was observed between the education groups. Qualifications of the doctor did not correlate to any other question. CONCLUSIONS This questionnaire is proposed as a basis for informed consent guidelines to health workers and for measures of satisfaction with the consent procedure.
Collapse
|
13
|
Abstract
Open label extension studies allow continued prescribing of unlicensed drugs after a randomised trial, but it is unclear whether patients or drug companies are benefiting the most
Collapse
|
14
|
Lawrence JM, Reid J, Taylor GJ, Stirling C, Reckless JPD. The effect of high dose atorvastatin therapy on lipids and lipoprotein subfractions in overweight patients with type 2 diabetes. Atherosclerosis 2004; 174:141-9. [PMID: 15135263 DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2004.01.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2003] [Revised: 12/15/2003] [Accepted: 01/21/2004] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Few data are available on the effects of high dose statin therapy on lipoprotein subfractions in type 2 diabetes. In a double blind randomised placebo-controlled trial we have studied the effects of 80 mg atorvastatin over 8 weeks on LDL, VLDL and HDL subfractions in 40 overweight type 2 diabetes patients. VLDL and LDL subfractions were prepared by density gradient ultracentrifugation. Triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein and phospholipids were measured and mass of subfractions calculated. HDL subfractions were prepared by precipitation. Atorvastatin 80 mg produced significant falls in LDL subfractions (LDL(1) 66.2 mg/dl:36.6 mg/dl, LDL(2) 118:56.6 mg/dl, LDL(3) 36.9:19.9 mg/dl all P < 0.01 relative to placebo) and VLDL subfractions (VLDL(1) 55:22.1 mg/dl, VLDL(2) 40.1:19.1 mg/dl, VLDL(3) 52.6:30 mg/dl all P < 0.01 relative to placebo). There was no change in the proportion of LDL present as LDL(3). There was a reduction in the proportion of VLDL as VLDL(1) and a reciprocal increase in the proportion as VLDL(3). Changes in VLDL subfractions were associated with changes in lipid composition, particularly a reduction in cholesterol ester and a reduction in the cholesterol ester/triglyceride ratio. Effects on HDL subfractions were largely neutral. High dose atorvastatin produces favourable effects on lipoprotein subfractions in type 2 diabetes which may enhance antiatherogenic potential.
Collapse
|
15
|
Basu U, Southron JL, Stephens JL, Taylor GJ. Reverse genetic analysis of the glutathione metabolic pathway suggests a novel role of PHGPX and URE2 genes in aluminum resistance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Mol Genet Genomics 2004; 271:627-37. [PMID: 15133656 DOI: 10.1007/s00438-004-1015-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2003] [Accepted: 04/14/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
We have taken a systematic genetic approach to study the potential role of glutathione metabolism in aluminum (Al) toxicity and resistance, using disruption mutants available in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Yeast disruption mutants defective in phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidases (PHGPX; phgpx1 Delta, phgpx2 Delta, and phgpx3Delta), were tested for their sensitivity to Al. The triple mutant, phgpx1 Delta/2Delta/3Delta, was more sensitive to Al (55% reduction in growth at 300 microM Al) than any single phgpx mutant, indicating that the PHGPX genes may collectively contribute to Al resistance. The hypersensitivity of phgpx3Delta to Al was overcome by complementation with PHGPX3, and all PHGPX genes showed increased expression in response to Al in the wild-type strain (YPH250), with maximum induction of approximately 2.5-fold for PHGPX3. Both phgpx3Delta and phgpx1Delta/2Delta/3Delta mutants were sensitive to oxidative stress (exposure to H(2)O(2) or diamide). Lipid peroxidation was also increased in the phgpx1Delta/2Delta/3Delta mutant compared to the parental strain. Disruption mutants defective in genes for glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) (gtt1Delta and gtt2Delta), glutathione biosynthesis (gsh1Delta and gsh2Delta), glutathione reductase (glr1Delta) and a glutathione transporter (opt1Delta) did not show hypersensitivity to Al relative to the parental strain BY4741. Interestingly, a strain deleted for URE2, a gene which encodes a prion precursor with homology to GSTs, also showed hypersensitivity to Al. The hypersensitivity of the ure2Delta mutant could be overcome by complementation with URE2. Expression of URE2 in the parental strain increased approximately 2-fold in response to exposure to 100 microM Al. Intracellular oxidation levels in the ure2Delta mutant showed a 2-fold (non-stressed) and 3-fold (when exposed-to 2 mM H(2)O(2)) increase compared to BY4741; however, the ure2Delta mutant showed no change in lipid peroxidation compared to the control. The phgpx1Delta/2Delta/3Delta and ure2Delta mutants both showed increased accumulation of Al. These findings suggest the involvement of PHGPX genes and a novel role of URE2 in Al toxicity/resistance in S. cerevisiae.
Collapse
|
16
|
Klocke R, Cockcroft JR, Taylor GJ, Hall IR, Blake DR. Arterial stiffness and central blood pressure, as determined by pulse wave analysis, in rheumatoid arthritis. Ann Rheum Dis 2003; 62:414-8. [PMID: 12695151 PMCID: PMC1754549 DOI: 10.1136/ard.62.5.414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality for reasons which are insufficiently understood. Chronic inflammation may impair vascular function and lead to an increase of arterial stiffness, an important determinant of cardiovascular risk. OBJECTIVE To investigate the augmentation index (AIx) as a measure of arterial stiffness in patients with RA, free of cardiovascular disease or risk factors, by means of a matched cohort pilot study. METHOD Patients with a diagnosis of RA, aged 50 years or younger, were screened for the absence of clinical cardiovascular disease and risk factors, such as smoking, hypercholesterolaemia, hypertension, and excessive systemic steroid use. Suitable subjects were assessed by non-invasive radial pulse wave analysis to determine their AIx. These data were compared with those from healthy controls, matched closely for sex, age, mean peripheral blood pressure, heart rate, and height. RESULTS 14 suitable patients (11 female; mean (SD) age 42 (6) years, mean RA duration 11 (6) years; mean C reactive protein 19 (15) mg/l, no clinical systemic rheumatoid vasculitis) and matched controls were identified. The RA group had a higher mean (SD) AIx and mean (SD) central blood pressure (BP) than the control group: AIx 26.2 (6.7) v 18.9 (10.8)%, p=0.028; mean central BP 91.3 (7.8) v 88.2 (8.9) mm Hg, p<0.0001, by two tailed, paired t test. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary study suggests that RA is associated with increased arterial stiffness and central BP, independently of clinically manifest cardiovascular disease or risk factors. This may contribute to the increased cardiovascular mortality in RA.
Collapse
|
17
|
Boynton WV, Feldman WC, Squyres SW, Prettyman TH, Bruckner J, Evans LG, Reedy RC, Starr R, Arnold JR, Drake DM, Englert PAJ, Metzger AE, Mitrofanov I, Trombka JI, D'Uston C, Wanke H, Gasnault O, Hamara DK, Janes DM, Marcialis RL, Maurice S, Mikheeva I, Taylor GJ, Tokar R, Shinohara C. Distribution of hydrogen in the near surface of Mars: evidence for subsurface ice deposits. Science 2002; 297:81-5. [PMID: 12040090 DOI: 10.1126/science.1073722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 753] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Using the Gamma-Ray Spectrometer on the Mars Odyssey, we have identified two regions near the poles that are enriched in hydrogen. The data indicate the presence of a subsurface layer enriched in hydrogen overlain by a hydrogen-poor layer. The thickness of the upper layer decreases with decreasing distance to the pole, ranging from a column density of about 150 grams per square centimeter at -42 degrees latitude to about 40 grams per square centimeter at -77 degrees. The hydrogen-rich regions correlate with regions of predicted ice stability. We suggest that the host of the hydrogen in the subsurface layer is ice, which constitutes 35 +/- 15% of the layer by weight.
Collapse
|
18
|
Castelhano AL, Pliura DH, Taylor GJ, Hsieh KC, Krantz A. Allenic suicide substrates. New inhibitors of vitamin B6 linked decarboxylases. J Am Chem Soc 2002. [DOI: 10.1021/ja00321a062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
19
|
Dickey JB, Towne EB, Bloom MS, Taylor GJ, Hill HM, Corbitt RA, McCall MA, Moore WH. N-Fluoroalkylanilines and Their N-Hydroxyalkyl Derivatives. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1021/ie50538a058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
20
|
Dickey JB, Towne EB, Bloom MS, Taylor GJ, Hill HM, Corbitt RA, McCall MA, Moore WH, Hedberg DG. Effect of Fluorine Substitution on Color and Fastness of Monoazo Dyes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.1021/ie50524a037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
21
|
Hamilton CA, Good AG, Taylor GJ. Vacuolar H+-ATPase, but not mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase, is required for aluminum resistance in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. FEMS Microbiol Lett 2001; 205:231-6. [PMID: 11750808 DOI: 10.1111/j.1574-6968.2001.tb10953.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
It was recently shown that vacuolar ATPase and mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase activities are induced by aluminum (Al) in an Al-resistant cultivar of wheat, suggesting that induction of these enzymes could be an adaptive trait involved in Al resistance. To test this hypothesis, we used the Saccharomyces cerevisiae model system. In yeast, unlike wheat, the activity, transcript and protein levels of mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase, but not vacuolar ATPase, are induced by Al, while plasma membrane P-ATPase activity is inhibited. However, yeast vacuolar ATPase mutant strains are hypersensitive to Al, while F1F0-ATPase mutant strains exhibit wild-type growth. These data suggest that vacuolar ATPase activity is involved in Al resistance, with ATP required for this activity supplied by mitochondrial F1F0-ATPase or fermentation.
Collapse
|
22
|
Wood DE, Taylor GJ. The risk of sudden cardiac death after myocardial infarction with chronic coronary artery disease. JOURNAL OF THE SOUTH CAROLINA MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (1975) 2001; 97:428-30. [PMID: 11688313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
|
23
|
Weaver SA, Stacey BS, Hayward SJ, Taylor GJ, Rooney NI, Robertson DA. Endoscopic palliation and survival in malignant biliary obstruction. Dig Dis Sci 2001; 46:2147-53. [PMID: 11680589 DOI: 10.1023/a:1011950612554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Malignant biliary obstruction is a common problem that is regarded as having a poor prognosis and is usually managed with palliation. Our aim was to investigate the survival of 182 consecutive subjects with malignant biliary obstruction where management was palliative with an [corrected] endoscopically placed biliary stent. We undertook a retrospective longitudinal study with date of death or confirmed survival of at least 23 months, as the primary end point. Diagnosis and blood indices from the 24 hr prior to first ERCP were obtained from hospital records. Of the 182 eligible subjects follow-up of date of death or confirmed survival of at least 23 months was obtained in 181 (99.5%). Of these 181 patients, 37 (20.4%) survived for more than one year. Histological confirmation was obtained in 47 of 182 subjects (25.8%). Increased age at first ERCP predicted increased survival (P < 0.05). In conclusion, in patients with malignant biliary obstruction, where management was endoscopic and palliative, 20.4% survived for more than one year with increased age at diagnosis being the only significant predictive marker.
Collapse
|
24
|
Luminet O, Bagby RM, Taylor GJ. An evaluation of the absolute and relative stability of alexithymia in patients with major depression. PSYCHOTHERAPY AND PSYCHOSOMATICS 2001; 70:254-60. [PMID: 11509895 DOI: 10.1159/000056263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 187] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previous studies demonstrating an association between alexithymia and depression have led to the proposal that alexithymia may be a state-dependent phenomenon rather than a stable and enduring personality trait. Several longitudinal studies have provided support for a trait view of alexithymia, but most of these studies evaluated absolute stability only (i.e., the extent to which alexithymia scores change over time) and did not examine the relative stability of alexithymia (i.e., the extent to which relative differences among individuals remain the same over time) in the context of changes in illness symptomatology. The present study evaluated both absolute stability and relative stability of alexithymia in depressed patients who experienced a marked reduction in the severity of depressive symptoms. METHODS Forty-six psychiatric outpatients with major depression were assessed for alexithymia and depression with the 20-item Toronto Alexithymia Scale and the Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression at the start of treatment (baseline) and after 14 weeks of treatment (follow-up) with antidepressant medication. Paired t tests and correlational analyses were performed to evaluate absolute stability and relative stability in alexithymia. Hierarchical regression analyses were then used to assess the degree to which the relative stability in alexithymia scores was related to the severity of depressive symptoms, and the degree to which changes in alexithymia scores could be attributed to changes in depression scores. RESULTS Alexithymia scores changed significantly from baseline to follow-up, indicating a general lack of absolute stability. There was, however, strong evidence of relative stability, as alexithymia scores at baseline correlated significantly with alexithymia scores at follow-up and were also a significant predictor of follow-up alexithymia scores, after partialling the effects of depression severity. CONCLUSIONS Although alexithymia scores may change in the presence of large changes in the severity of depressive symptoms, the finding of relative stability of alexithymia supports the view that this construct is a stable personality trait rather a state-dependent phenomenon.
Collapse
|
25
|
Kiely DG, Ansari S, Davey WA, Mahadevan V, Taylor GJ, Seaton D. Bedside tracer gas technique accurately predicts outcome in aspiration of spontaneous pneumothorax. Thorax 2001; 56:617-21. [PMID: 11462064 PMCID: PMC1746118 DOI: 10.1136/thorax.56.8.617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is no technique in general use that reliably predicts the outcome of manual aspiration of spontaneous pneumothorax. We have hypothesised that the absence of a pleural leak at the time of aspiration will identify a group of patients in whom immediate discharge is unlikely to be complicated by early lung re-collapse and have tested this hypothesis by using a simple bedside tracer gas technique. METHODS Eighty four episodes of primary spontaneous pneumothorax and 35 episodes of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax were studied prospectively. Patients breathed air containing a tracer (propellant gas from a pressurised metered dose inhaler) while the pneumothorax was aspirated percutaneously. Tracer gas in the aspirate was detected at the bedside using a portable flame ioniser and episodes were categorised as tracer gas positive (>1 part per million of tracer gas) or negative. The presence of tracer gas was taken to imply a persistent pleural leak. Failure of manual aspiration and the need for a further intervention was based on chest radiographic appearances showing either failure of the lung to re-expand or re-collapse following initial re-expansion. RESULTS A negative tracer gas test alone implied that manual aspiration would be successful in the treatment of 93% of episodes of primary spontaneous pneumothorax (p<0.001) and in 86% of episodes of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax (p=0.01). A positive test implied that manual aspiration would either fail to re-expand the lung or that early re-collapse would occur despite initial re-expansion in 66% of episodes of primary spontaneous pneumothorax and 71% of episodes of secondary spontaneous pneumothorax. Lung re-inflation on the chest radiograph taken immediately after aspiration was a poor predictor of successful aspiration, with lung re-collapse occurring in 34% of episodes by the following day such that a further intervention was required. CONCLUSIONS National guidelines currently recommend immediate discharge of patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax based primarily on the outcome of the post-aspiration chest radiograph which we have shown to be a poor predictor of early lung re-collapse. Using a simple bedside test in combination with the post-aspiration chest radiograph, we can predict with high accuracy the success of aspiration in achieving sustained lung re-inflation, thereby identifying patients with primary spontaneous pneumothorax who can be safely and immediately discharged home and those who should be observed overnight because of a significant risk of re-collapse, with an estimated re-admission rate of 1%.
Collapse
|