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Dawson SJ, Evans MRW, Willby D, Bardwell J, Chamberlain N, Lewis DA. Listeria outbreak associated with sandwich consumption from a hospital retail shop, United Kingdom. Euro Surveill 2006; 11:89-91. [PMID: 16801694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
An outbreak of listeriosis occurred in the Swindon area of the UK in autumn 2003. Five cases were detected in pregnant women. Four of these women were thought to have eaten prepacked sandwiches from a retail outlet in one particular hospital. Sampling at the supplier detected Listeria monocytogenes, which was indistinguishable on molecular testing from the patients isolates. Recent changes in UK food legislation should help diminish the risk of further outbreaks/cases such as ours occurring.
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Lewis DA, Pound ML, Ortel TL. The reactivity of paired plasma and serum samples are comparable in the anticardiolipin and anti-beta2-glycoprotein-1 ELISAs. J Thromb Haemost 2006; 4:265-7. [PMID: 16409482 DOI: 10.1111/j.1538-7836.2005.01721.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Konopaske GT, Sweet RA, Wu Q, Sampson A, Lewis DA. Regional specificity of chandelier neuron axon terminal alterations in schizophrenia. Neuroscience 2005; 138:189-96. [PMID: 16337746 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2005.10.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2005] [Revised: 10/21/2005] [Accepted: 10/26/2005] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The axon terminals of GABAergic chandelier cells form linear arrays, termed cartridges, that synapse on the axon initial segment of neocortical pyramidal cells. These cartridges are immunoreactive for the GABA membrane transporter-1, and the density of GABA membrane transporter-1-immunoreactive cartridges in the prefrontal cortex has been reported to be reduced in schizophrenia. The goal of this study was to determine if reductions in the density of GABA membrane transporter-1-immunoreactive cartridges in schizophrenia are restricted to the prefrontal cortex. METHODS Relative GABA membrane transporter-1-immunoreactive cartridge density was determined in auditory association area 42, a region previously implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia, in 14 matched pairs of subjects with schizophrenia and normal comparison subjects. The results were compared with similar data from prefrontal area 46 in the same subjects. RESULTS Mean GABA membrane transporter-1-immunoreactive cartridge density in area 42 was decreased by 9.8% in layers II-IIIa, and by 11.9% in layer VI in subjects with schizophrenia, although these differences did not achieve statistical significance. However, the magnitude of the reductions in the density of GABA membrane transporter-1-immunoreactive cartridges in area 42 of the subjects with schizophrenia was not significantly smaller than those in area 46. CONCLUSIONS In subjects with schizophrenia, alterations in chandelier neuron axon cartridges appear to be more marked in the prefrontal cortex than in another cortical region implicated in the illness, although such changes might not be restricted to the prefrontal cortex.
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Gonzalez-Burgos G, Kroener S, Seamans JK, Lewis DA, Barrionuevo G. Dopaminergic Modulation of Short-Term Synaptic Plasticity in Fast-Spiking Interneurons of Primate Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex. J Neurophysiol 2005; 94:4168-77. [PMID: 16148267 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00698.2005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dopaminergic regulation of primate dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (PFC) activity is essential for cognitive functions such as working memory. However, the cellular mechanisms of dopamine neuromodulation in PFC are not well understood. We have studied the effects of dopamine receptor activation during persistent stimulation of excitatory inputs onto fast-spiking GABAergic interneurons in monkey PFC. Stimulation at 20 Hz induced short-term excitatory postsynaptic potential (EPSP) depression. The D1 receptor agonist SKF81297 (5 μM) significantly reduced the amplitude of the first EPSP but not of subsequent responses in EPSP trains, which still displayed significant depression. Dopamine (DA; 10 μM) effects were similar to those of SKF81297 and were abolished by the D1 antagonist SCH23390 (5 μM), indicating a D1 receptor-mediated effect. DA did not alter miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents, suggesting that its effects were activity dependent and presynaptic action potential dependent. In contrast to previous findings in pyramidal neurons, in fast-spiking cells, contribution of N-methyl-d-aspartate receptors to EPSPs at subthreshold potentials was not significant and fast-spiking cell depolarization decreased EPSP duration. In addition, DA had no significant effects on temporal summation. The selective decrease in the amplitude of the first EPSP in trains delivered every 10 s suggests that in fast-spiking neurons, DA reduces the amplitude of EPSPs evoked at low frequency but not of EPSPs evoked by repetitive stimulation. DA may therefore improve detection of EPSP bursts above background synaptic activity. EPSP bursts displaying short-term depression may transmit spike-timing-dependent temporal codes contained in presynaptic spike trains. Thus DA neuromodulation may increase the signal-to-noise ratio at fast-spiking cell inputs.
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Chuang TY, Lewis DA, Spandau DF. Decreased incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus using insulin: a pilot study. Br J Dermatol 2005; 153:552-7. [PMID: 16120142 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2133.2005.06738.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to prevent the propagation of genetic mutations, human keratinocytes irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) B light in vitro undergo premature stress-induced senescence or apoptosis. This response to UVB irradiation is dependent on the functional activation of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R). Based on this in vitro functional data, we hypothesized that the increased serum levels of insulin in patients with type 2 diabetes may activate the IGF-1R in skin and lead to a decreased frequency of skin cancer in these patients. OBJECTIVES To determine whether the use of insulin by patients with type 2 diabetes correlated with a change in the incidence in nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC). METHODS A historical cohort study identifying the incidence of NMSC following the use of two different pharmacological therapies. The patient population was restricted to caucasians who were at least 50 years old when they began the indicated pharmacological therapy. The first group consisted of 1440 patients who used insulin therapy to treat type 2 diabetes and the second group comprised 4135 patients who used cimetidine to treat their gastrointestinal ailments. An additional group of 6131 patients with diabetes who used noninsulin antidiabetics was added to examine the effect of noninsulin therapies. All patients had regular follow-up visits at the Regenstrief Clinics during the study period between 1980 and 1999. The Regenstrief Clinics is an outpatient facility which serves the general population in Metro-Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A. RESULTS The incidence of NMSC in patients using insulin was significantly lower than in patients using cimetidine (1.25% vs. 2.35%, P < 0.02). The decrease in NMSC in patients with type 2 diabetes correlated specifically with the use of insulin (NMSC incidence insulin-only patients with diabetes: 1.40% vs. those with diabetes using noninsulin therapies: 2.35%, P = 0.11). CONCLUSIONS Patients using exogenous insulin had a lower risk of developing NMSC and the protective effect of insulin use becomes more distinct with increasing age.
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Cohen GA, Lewis DA, Berger S. Reproducibility of head-up tilt-table testing in pediatric patients with neurocardiogenic syncope. Pediatr Cardiol 2005; 26:772-4. [PMID: 16132274 DOI: 10.1007/s00246-005-0979-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess the reproducibility of a head-up tilt-table test protocol so it may be used to more accurately evaluate the effectiveness of a treatment protocol. Children between the ages of 10 and 18 years presenting to the cardiology department at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin with a diagnosis of neurocardiogenic syncope were eligible for the study. The patients were tilted to 70 degrees for 30 minutes or until a positive test occurred. Patients with a positive test were retilted using the same protocol. Parameters measured included heart rate, blood pressure, and the presence or absence of syncope or presyncope. Twenty-two patients were enrolled in the study. Seventeen patients had a positive test on first tilt. Fifteen had a positive tilt test on the second tilt. There were no significant differences between the two tilts with regard to mean differences of baseline heart rate, systolic blood pressure, or mean arterial pressure. There were no significant differences between the two tilts with regard to mean differences in time until symptoms, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, or mean arterial blood pressure at time of symptoms. This study shows that the head-up tilt-table test protocol used is reproducible in adolescents with the diagnosis of neurocardiogenic syncope.
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Lewis DA, Ganderton D, Meakin BJ, Brambilla G. Modulite: a simple solution to a difficult problem. Respiration 2005; 72 Suppl 1:3-5. [PMID: 15915006 DOI: 10.1159/000083686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of HFA-based pMDIs has proved difficult due to differences in the physico-chemical properties of CFC and HFA propellants. However, the development of solution formulations instead of suspensions has provided a way to formulate products whose cloud characteristics can be modulated in a controlled manner by permitting different formulation and device hardware variables. The new approach has proved successful in formulating several different drugs including steroids and has now been applied to developing a formoterol Modulite solution formulation characterized by good chemical stability, delivery performance, and clinical results.
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Weant KA, Smith KM, Lewis DA. Assessment of Prescriber Compliance with Established Heart Failure Guidelines at a Major Medical Center. Hosp Pharm 2005. [DOI: 10.1177/001857870504000807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Treatment guidelines for systolic heart failure (HF), therapy for which largely relies on the combination of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) agents and beta-blockers, focus on decreasing morbidity and mortality, and increasing quality of life. The objective of this study is to assess prescriber compliance with these guidelines in designing patient medication regimens prior to hospital admission, at discharge, and at readmission if within 30 days at a 473-bed tertiary university hospital. Methods Of 162 patients with a primary diagnosis of HF, 62 were selected for a retrospective data collection utilizing a random number table. Ten with an ejection fraction greater than or equal to 50% were excluded. Regimens were classified as suboptimal (absence of RAAS agent or beta-blocker), optimal, or optimal at target doses. Results Prior to admission (N = 52), 81% were prescribed diuretics, 54% were prescribed beta-blockers (8% target dose), and 50% were prescribed RAAS agents (11% target dose). Overall, 36% were optimal regimens; 2% were optimal and at optimal doses. Upon discharge, these values were 58% and 2%, respectively. Discharge medications included diuretics (92%), beta-blockers (79%; 10% target dose), and RAAS agents (75%; 11% target dose). Of the nine (17%) readmitted within 30 days, 67% were receiving suboptimal therapy; none were at target doses. Conclusions Optimal HF regimens were less common upon admission (36%) and improved upon discharge (58%). Most patients readmitted within 30 days of discharge were receiving suboptimal therapy. Clinical pharmacists are in a position to provide continuing prescriber education regarding proven HF therapies and target titration end points, both in ambulatory and acute care arenas.
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Povysheva NV, Gonzalez-Burgos G, Zaitsev AV, Kröner S, Barrionuevo G, Lewis DA, Krimer LS. Properties of excitatory synaptic responses in fast-spiking interneurons and pyramidal cells from monkey and rat prefrontal cortex. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 16:541-52. [PMID: 16033926 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhj002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the prefrontal cortex (PFC) during working memory tasks fast-spiking (FS) interneurons might shape the spatial selectivity of pyramidal cell firing. In order to provide time control of pyramidal cell activity, incoming excitatory inputs should excite FS interneurons more vigorously than pyramidal cells. This can be achieved if subthreshold excitatory responses of interneurons are considerably stronger and faster than those in pyramidal neurons. Here we compared the functional properties of excitatory post-synaptic potentials (EPSPs) between pyramidal cells and FS interneurons in slices from monkey dorsolateral PFC and rat prelimbic cortex. Miniature, unitary (in connected pairs or by minimal stimulation) and compound (evoked by electrical stimulation of the white matter) EPSPs were recorded in whole cell mode. We found that EPSPs were significantly larger and faster in FS interneurons than those recorded from pyramidal cells, consistent with the idea of more efficient recruitment of FS interneurons compared to pyramidal neurons. Similar results were obtained in monkey and rat PFC, suggesting a stable role of FS interneurons in this circuitry across species.
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Prasad KMR, Chowdari KV, Nimgaonkar VL, Talkowski ME, Lewis DA, Keshavan MS. Genetic polymorphisms of the RGS4 and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex morphometry among first episode schizophrenia patients. Mol Psychiatry 2005; 10:213-9. [PMID: 15381923 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms of the gene encoding the regulator of G-protein signaling subtype 4 (RGS4) may confer risk for schizophrenia.(1) DNA microarray studies of postmortem brain samples have shown RGS4 underexpression in the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC, area 9), motor and visual cortices in schizophrenia patients relative to control subjects.(2) Underexpression of RGS4 in DLPFC is pathophysiologically significant because DLPFC pathology in schizophrenia has been supported by neurocognitive,(3,4) structural(5) and functional(6,7) imaging, postmortem,(8) cellular(9,10) and molecular(11) pathological studies. For these reasons, we examined the association of DLPFC gray matter volume with RGS4 polymorphisms in a series of antipsychotic-naive first-episode schizophrenia patients and control subjects. We hypothesized that volumetric alterations of the DLPFC would be associated with RGS4 polymorphisms and that these differences would be more pronounced in patients than in controls. We observed robust volumetric differences across the genotypes in the pooled sample of patients and control subjects; when separately analyzed, we observed differences within the patient group (n = 30) but not in control subject (n = 27) group. The findings suggest that RGS4 polymorphisms may contribute to structural alterations in the DLPFC.
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Melchitzky DS, Eggan SM, Lewis DA. Synaptic targets of calretinin-containing axon terminals in macaque monkey prefrontal cortex. Neuroscience 2005; 130:185-95. [PMID: 15561434 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.08.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/18/2004] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The coordinated activity of specific populations of pyramidal cells and GABA-containing, local circuit neurons in the primate prefrontal cortex (PFC) appears to be critical for working memory. Different subclasses of GABA-containing neurons can be distinguished by their content of the calcium-binding proteins parvalbumin (PV) and calretinin (CR). The postsynaptic targets of PV-containing cells have been well characterized in the primate PFC, but the postsynaptic targets of CR-containing neurons in this cortical region remain unknown. In the present study, we used immuno-electron microscopy to examine the synaptic type and postsynaptic targets of CR-immunoreactive (IR) axon terminals in the superficial and deep layers of macaque monkey PFC. Labeled axon terminals formed both symmetric and asymmetric synapses. Within the superficial layers, 93% of the synapses formed by CR-IR were symmetric, whereas in the deep layers the labeled axon terminals forming synapses were more evenly divided between symmetric (57%) and asymmetric (43%). The primary postsynaptic target of these two populations of CR-IR axon terminals also differed; unlabeled dendritic shafts were the predominant target of the symmetric synapses, whereas dendritic spines were the most common target of the asymmetric synapses. In addition, the mean cross-sectional area of the terminals forming asymmetric synapses was significantly larger than that of the terminals forming symmetric synapses. The presence of CR-IR asymmetric synapses suggested that they might arise from neurons that do not utilize GABA; indeed, dual-label fluorescent immunocytochemistry revealed that a subpopulation (23%) of CR-containing neurons in monkey PFC were not GABA-IR. These findings indicate that the synaptology of CR-containing neurons is more heterogeneous than that of PV-containing cells and suggests that the contributions of CR-containing neurons to cognitive processes mediated by the PFC may be more diverse.
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Lewis DA, McDonald A, Thompson G, Bingham JS. The 374 clinic: an outreach sexual health clinic for young men. Sex Transm Infect 2004; 80:480-3. [PMID: 15572619 PMCID: PMC1744936 DOI: 10.1136/sti.2004.012138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the establishment of a community based walk-in outreach genitourinary medicine clinic, the "374 clinic," in south London to target young men under 25 in an area with high rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs). METHODS The outreach clinic was set up within a Brook advisory centre, which already had gained the trust of local young people. Epidemiological, clinical, and laboratory data were obtained retrospectively for the first 24 weeks of the service. RESULTS 134 attendances were recorded, including 94 new and 10 rebook events. The age range of the young men seen was 12-27 years (mean 18.2 years), the patients were mainly from black and ethnic minority groups, and all but one were heterosexual. Most men had heard about the clinic by "word of mouth," recommendation by Brook staff or through clinic promotional material. Condoms were used more frequently with non-regular sexual partners than with regular partners. The uptake of screening for gonococcal and chlamydial infections, mostly by urine based molecular techniques, was 98%. The uptake for HIV testing in men aged 16 or more was 72%. An overall STI prevalence rate of 26% was detected in the clinic population, which consisted almost equally of asymptomatic and symptomatic patients. The most prevalent STI was chlamydial infection (12%). CONCLUSIONS The young men who attended the outreach clinic were happy to undergo both non-invasive urine based testing for gonorrhoea and chlamydia as well as phlebotomy to test for HIV and syphilis. The 374 clinic approach may prove to be a useful model for further outreach services to combat poor sexual health of young men in inner city areas.
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Zaitsev AV, Gonzalez-Burgos G, Povysheva NV, Kröner S, Lewis DA, Krimer LS. Localization of calcium-binding proteins in physiologically and morphologically characterized interneurons of monkey dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 15:1178-86. [PMID: 15590911 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhh218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 132] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
In the primate neocortex, little is known about the possible associations between functional subclasses of GABA neurons, their morphological properties and calcium-binding protein (CaBP) content. We used whole-cell current clamp recordings, combined with intracellular labeling and fluorescence immunohistochemistry, to determine these relationships for interneurons in layers 2-3 of monkey prefrontal cortex (PFC). Eighty-one interneurons were included in the analysis. Thirty-eight of these cells showed immunoreactivity for one of the three CaBPs tested. Co-localization of more than one CaBP was not observed in any of the interneurons examined. Interneurons with different CaBPs formed distinct populations with specific physiological membrane properties and morphological features. Parvalbumin (PV)-positive cells had the physiological properties characteristic of fast-spiking interneurons (FS) and the morphology of basket or chandelier neurons. Most calretinin (CR)-containing cells had the physiological properties ascribed to non-fast-spiking cells (non-FS) and a vertically oriented axonal morphology, similar to that of double bouquet cells. Calbindin (CB)-positive interneurons also had non-FS properties and included cells with double bouquet morphology or with a characteristic dense web of axonal collaterals in layer 1. Classification of the interneurons based on cluster analysis of multiple electrophysiological properties suggested the existence of at least two distinct groups of interneurons. The first group contained mainly PV-positive FS cells and the second group consisted predominantly of CR- and CB-positive non-FS interneurons. These findings may help to illuminate the functional roles of different groups of interneurons in primate PFC circuitry.
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Park JW, Scott PM, Lau BPY, Lewis DA. Analysis of heat-processed corn foods for fumonisins and bound fumonisins. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 21:1168-78. [PMID: 15799562 DOI: 10.1080/02652030400021873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Thirty retail samples of heat-processed corn foods, i.e. corn flakes, corn-based breakfast cereals, tortilla chips and corn chips, were analysed for fumonisins--fumonisin B1 (FB1), fumonisin B2 (FB2) and hydrolysed FB1 (HFB1)--as well as for protein- and total-bound FB1. Bound (hidden) fumonisins cannot be detected by conventional analysis. Improved methods for the determination of bound FB1 were developed. The protein-bound FB1 was extracted with 1% sodium dodecylsulfate (SDS) solution. The SDS, which interfered with high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis, was then separated from protein-bound FB1 by complexing with methylene blue followed by solvent extraction and hydrolysis with 2 N KOH. To measure total-bound FB1, the sample itself was hydrolysed with KOH. In both cases, clean-up was accomplished on an OASIS polymeric solid-phase extraction column and the bound fumonisins were determined by HPLC measurement of HFB1. Fourteen of 15 samples of corn flakes and other corn-based breakfast cereals analysed contained detectable levels of FB1 with a mean in positive samples of 67ng g(-1) (13-237 ng g(-1)). Two samples also had detectable levels of FB2 (21-23ng g(-1)). Bound FB1 was found in all samples; the mean protein-bound FB1 measured was 58 ng g(-1) (22-176 ng g(-1)) and the mean total-bound FB1 measured was 106 ng g(-1) (28-418 ng g(-1)), reported as FB1 equivalents after correction for recoveries of HFB1. There was an average of about 1.3 times more FB1 in the bound form compared with extractable FB1, and this was about twice as much as protein-bound FB1. Seven of the 15 samples of alkali-processed corn-based foods, such as tortilla chips and corn chips, contained FB1 and three contained HFB1 with means in measurable positive samples of 78 (48-134) and 29 (13-47) ng g(-1), respectively. Five of these alkali-processed corn foods contained bound FB1; the mean measurable protein-bound FB1 was 42 ng g(-1) (39-46 ng g(-1)) and the mean measurable total-bound FB1 was 100 ng g(-1) (54-209 ng g(-1)). HFB1 derived from bound FB1 in selected samples was confirmed by HPLC with mass spectrometry (MS).
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Passos MRL, Barreto NA, Varella RQ, Rodrigues GHS, Lewis DA. Penile myiasis: a case report. Sex Transm Infect 2004; 80:183-4. [PMID: 15169999 PMCID: PMC1744837 DOI: 10.1136/sti.2003.008235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of penile myiasis in a Brazilian man caused by the larva of Dermatobia hominis. Myiasis is a parasitic disease of humans and other vertebrates caused by larvae of several fly species. Although urinary myiasis is well recognised, infestation of the genital tissue is a rare occurrence. Once the diagnosis has been made, the treatment is usually straightforward and uncomplicated.
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Freeman DA, Lewis DA, Kauffman AS, Blum RM, Dark J. Reduced leptin concentrations are permissive for display of torpor in Siberian hamsters. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2004; 287:R97-R103. [PMID: 15191926 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00716.2003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
A photoperiod with a short photophase induces a winterlike phenotype in Siberian hamsters that includes a progressive decrease in food intake and body mass and reproductive organ regression, as well as reversible hypothermia in the form of short-duration torpor. Torpor substantially reduces energy utilization and is not initiated until body mass, fat stores, and serum leptin concentrations are at their nadir. Because photoperiod-dependent torpor is delayed until fat reserves are lowest, leptin concentrations may be a permissive factor for torpor onset. This conjecture was tested by implanting osmotic minipumps into Siberian hamsters manifesting spontaneous torpor; the animals received a constant release of leptin or vehicle for 14 days. Exogenous leptin treatment eliminated torpor in a significant proportion of treated hamsters, whereas treatment with the vehicle did not. Similarly, endogenous serum leptin concentrations were markedly reduced in all animals undergoing daily torpor. Although simply reducing leptin concentrations below a threshold value is not sufficient for torpor initiation, reduced leptin concentrations nevertheless appear necessary for its occurrence. It is proposed that drastically reduced leptin concentrations provide a “starvation signal” to an as yet unidentified central mechanism mediating torpor initiation.
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Bell IR, Lewis DA, Lewis SE, Brooks AJ, Schwartz GE, Baldwin CM. Strength of vital force in classical homeopathy: bio-psycho-social-spiritual correlates within a complex systems context. J Altern Complement Med 2004; 10:123-31. [PMID: 15025886 DOI: 10.1089/107555304322849048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore associations between a global rating for the classical homeopathic construct of vital force and clinician and patient ratings on previously validated bio-psycho-social-spiritual questionnaires. METHODS Sixty-two (62) community-recruited patients with fibromyalgia (FM) were assessed at baseline prior to a clinical trial of individualized homeopathy. Two homeopaths jointly performed case-taking interviews. A conventional medical provider independently evaluated patients with a standardized history and physical examination. Homeopaths rated each patient's vital force (five-point Likert scale, with 1 = very weak to 5 = very strong). Homeopaths and the conventional medical provider rated their Clinical Global Impression (CGI) of the severity of illness (1 = normal; 7 = among the most extremely ill). Patients completed self-rating scales on pain, global health, mood, quality of life, coping style, health locus of control, multidimensional well-being, spirituality, sense of coherence, positive states of mind, and social desirability. RESULTS Greater vital force ratings (mean 2.9 standard deviation [SD] 0.6) correlated moderately (p < or = 0.005) with less severe CGI illness ratings by the homeopaths (r =-0.59), decreased patient-rated mental confusion (r =-0.43), higher vigor (r = 0.38), and greater positive states of mind (r = 0.36). Vital force also showed correlations (p < 0.05) with lower CGI ratings by the conventional medical provider (r =-0.32), better selfrated quality of life (r = 0.33), lesser fatigue (r =-0.31), better global health (r = 0.29), greater sense of coherence (r = 0.28), powerful-others health locus of control (r = 0.27), increased emotional well-being (r = 0.27), and higher social desirability (r = 0.27), but not with age, pain, or illness duration. CONCLUSION Homeopathic vital force ratings reflect better perceived mental function, energy, and positive dimensions of the individual, beyond absence of disease.
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Schwartz GE, Swanick S, Sibert W, Lewis DA, Lewis SE, Nelson L, Jain S, Mallory L, Foust L, Moore K, Tussing D, Bell IR. Biofield detection: role of bioenergy awareness training and individual differences in absorption. J Altern Complement Med 2004; 10:167-9. [PMID: 15025891 DOI: 10.1089/107555304322849093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To measure health care providers' capacity to detect biofields before and after bioenergy awareness training in relation to individual differences in the personality trait of absorption. METHODS Twenty-seven (27) physicians, psychologists, and nurses participated in a 5-day intensive bioenergy healing training course with Rev. Rosalyn Bruyere. The course was part of the Associate Fellows Program in the Program in Integrative Medicine at the University of Arizona. Blindfolded participants received a 24-trial hand biofield detection test (HBDT) pretraining and post-training. The experimenter placed his or her dominant hand a few inches above the participant's left or right hand for 30-second trials. After each trial, the participant guessed which hand was being tested. Blocks contained two right- and two left-hand trials in different orders. Participants filled out Tellegen's Absorption Scale, a measure of the capacity to focus attention in tasks. RESULTS Percent HBDT accuracy for the entire sample was 50.8% (standard deviation [SD] = 12.24) at pretraining (50% is chance); accuracy increased to 55.5% (SD = 12.38) at post-training (t = p = 2.08, p < 0.05). Pretraining absorption (mean = 23.9; SD = 5.52) was significantly correlated with degree of detection accuracy increase (r = 0.42, n = 22, p < 0.05). High absorption (mean = 28.2 n = 11) participants increased to 58.3% compared to 52.7% for low absorption (mean = 19.2 n = 11) participants. CONCLUSION The findings support claims of energy healers that (1) training can improve bioenergy awareness, and (2) there are substantial individual differences in response to training.
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Bell IR, Lewis DA, Schwartz GE, Lewis SE, Caspi O, Scott A, Brooks AJ, Baldwin CM. Electroencephalographic Cordance Patterns Distinguish Exceptional Clinical Responders with Fibromyalgia to Individualized Homeopathic Medicines. J Altern Complement Med 2004; 10:285-99. [PMID: 15165409 DOI: 10.1089/107555304323062275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To characterize initial central nervous system responses to olfactory administration of homeopathic remedies as biomarkers for subsequently exceptional, simillimum-like clinical outcomes at a systemic level (i.e., both locally and globally). DESIGN Double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial. SETTING A private homeopathic clinic in Phoenix, AZ, and a university laboratory in Tucson, AZ. PATIENTS Sixty-two (62) persons with physician-confirmed fibromyalgia (FM) (mean age, 49 years; 94% women) enrolled; 53 completed the 3-month assessment visit. Exceptional responders (n = 6, 23% of active treatment group; none on placebo) were those with improvements in the top one-third for both tender point pain and global health ratings after 3 months. INTERVENTION Patients took daily oral doses of treatment solution in LM (1/50,000 dilution) potency (active group received individualized remedy; placebo group received plain solvent). Dependent measures: Baseline and 3-month difference scores for initial prefrontal electroencephalographic alpha frequency cordance (EEG-C, a correlate of functional brain activity) during 16 pairs of randomized, double-blinded bottle sniffs (treatment minus control solutions). RESULTS Exceptional responders versus other patients exhibited significantly more negative initial EEG-C difference scores at prefrontal sites. Right prefrontal cordance findings correlated with subsequently reduced pain (r = 0.85, p = 0.03), better global health (r =-0.73, p = 0.10), and trait absorption (genetically determined ability to focus attention selectively and fully) (r = 0.91, p = 0.012). CONCLUSIONS These observations suggest prefrontal EEG-C as an early biomarker of individualized homeopathic medicine effects in patients with FM who later exhibit exceptional outcomes. Prefrontal cortex controls executive function, including ability to redirect attention. Interactions between executive function, absorption, and the simillimum remedy could facilitate exceptional responses.
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Bell IR, Lewis DA, Brooks AJ, Schwartz GE, Lewis SE, Caspi O, Cunningham V, Baldwin CM. Individual Differences in Response to Randomly Assigned Active Individualized Homeopathic and Placebo Treatment in Fibromyalgia: Implications of a Double-Blinded Optional Crossover Design. J Altern Complement Med 2004; 10:269-83. [PMID: 15165408 DOI: 10.1089/107555304323062266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess individual difference characteristics of subgroups of patients with fibromyalgia (FM) patients with respect to the decision to stay in or switch from randomly-assigned verum or placebo treatment during an optional crossover phase of a double-blinded homeopathy study. DESIGN Double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled, optional crossover clinical trial. PARTICIPANTS Fifty-three (53) community-recruited patients with FM entered the optional crossover phase. INTERVENTION Two homeopaths jointly selected an individualized homeopathic remedy for all patients. The pharmacy dispensed either verum LM remedy or indistinguishable placebo in accord with randomized assignment for 4 months and the patient's optional crossover decision for an additional 2 months. OUTCOME MEASURES Patients completed a battery of baseline state/trait questionnaires, including mood, childhood neglect and abuse, and trait absorption. They rated global health (whole person-centered) and tender point pain on physical examination (disease-specific) at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months. RESULTS Rates of optional crossover from verum to placebo or placebo to verum were comparable (p = 0.6; 31%, and 41%, respectively). The switch subgroups had greater baseline psychologic issues (emotional neglect in placebo-switch; depression and anger in verum-switch). The verum-stay subgroup scored highest on treatment helpfulness and included all six exceptional responders who fell, prior to crossover, into the top terciles for improvement in both global health and pain. Patients staying in their randomly assigned groups, active or placebo (n = 34), scored significantly higher in trait absorption than did those who switched groups (n = 19). CONCLUSION Individual difference factors may predict better and poorer responders with FM to specific and nonspecific effects of homeopathic and placebo treatment.
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Bell IR, Lewis DA, Brooks AJ, Schwartz GE, Lewis SE, Walsh BT, Baldwin CM. Improved clinical status in fibromyalgia patients treated with individualized homeopathic remedies versus placebo. Rheumatology (Oxford) 2004; 43:577-82. [PMID: 14734789 DOI: 10.1093/rheumatology/keh111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the efficacy of individualized classical homeopathy in the treatment of fibromyalgia. METHODS This study was a double-blind, randomized, parallel-group, placebo-controlled trial of homeopathy. Community-recruited persons (N = 62) with physician-confirmed fibromyalgia (mean age 49 yr, s.d. 10 yr, 94% women) were treated in a homeopathic private practice setting. Participants were randomized to receive oral daily liquid LM (1/50,000) potencies with an individually chosen homeopathic remedy or an indistinguishable placebo. Homeopathic visits involved joint interviews and concurrence on remedy selection by two experienced homeopaths, at baseline, 2 months and 4 months (prior to a subsequent optional crossover phase of the study which is reported elsewhere). Tender point count and tender point pain on examination by a medical assessor uninvolved in providing care, self-rating scales on fibromyalgia-related quality of life, pain, mood and global health at baseline and 3 months, were the primary clinical outcome measures for this report. RESULTS Fifty-three people completed the treatment protocol. Participants on active treatment showed significantly greater improvements in tender point count and tender point pain, quality of life, global health and a trend toward less depression compared with those on placebo. CONCLUSIONS This study replicates and extends a previous 1-month placebo-controlled crossover study in fibromyalgia that pre-screened for only one homeopathic remedy. Using a broad selection of remedies and the flexible LM dose (1/50,000 dilution factor) series, the present study demonstrated that individualized homeopathy is significantly better than placebo in lessening tender point pain and improving the quality of life and global health of persons with fibromyalgia.
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Erickson SL, Melchitzky DS, Lewis DA. Subcortical afferents to the lateral mediodorsal thalamus in cynomolgus monkeys. Neuroscience 2004; 129:675-90. [PMID: 15541889 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2004.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/13/2004] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The mediodorsal (MD) nucleus of the thalamus has long been known to provide the principal source of subcortical input to the primate prefrontal cortex, as well as to other areas of the frontal lobe that are thought to contribute to higher-order cognitive functions. In this study, we used injections of retrograde tracers in the lateral portion of the monkey MD to assess the locations of labeled cells in subcortical structures. Three main patterns were identified in the distribution of subcortical connections. We found that the claustrum, superior colliculus and ventral midbrain regions were heavily labeled in the cases with injections in caudoventral MD. In these cases, labeled cells were also found in either the periaqueductal gray or zona incerta, depending on the specific case. In one case with an injection in anterodorsal MD, labeled cells were most numerous in the structures of the ventral midbrain, especially the ventral tegmental area. Finally, the claustrum and superior colliculus contained the largest percentage of labeled subcortical cells in cases with injections in ventrolateral MD. These three patterns of subcortical label corresponded to three equally distinctive trends in the distribution of MD connections with the cortex in these same cases [J Comp Neurol 473 (2004) 107]. Very few labeled cells were found in other areas such as the amygdala, globus pallidus and deep cerebellar nuclei, suggesting that pathways leading from these structures to dorsolateral and dorsomedial frontal cortices are not likely to include the lateral divisions of MD. In concert, these findings show that particular locales within lateral MD receive distinct profiles of subcortical afferents, and project into specific neocortical domains, suggesting that these different sites within lateral MD may participate in functionally distinct circuits of information processing.
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Mirnics ZK, Mirnics K, Terrano D, Lewis DA, Sisodia SS, Schor NF. DNA microarray profiling of developing PS1-deficient mouse brain reveals complex and coregulated expression changes. Mol Psychiatry 2003; 8:863-78. [PMID: 14515137 DOI: 10.1038/sj.mp.4001389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Presenilin 1 (PS1) plays a critical role in the nervous system development and PS1 mutations have been associated with familial Alzheimer's disease. PS1-deficient mice exhibit alterations in neural and vascular development and die in late embryogenesis. The present study was aimed at uncovering transcript networks that depend on intact PS1 function in the developing brain. To achieve this, we analyzed the brains of PS1-deficient and control animals at embryonic ages E12.5 and E14.5 using MG_U74Av2 oligonucleotide microarrays by Affymetrix. Based on the microarray data, overall molecular brain development appeared to be comparable between the E12.5 and E14.5 PS1-deficient and control embryos. However, in brains of PS1-deficient mice, we observed significant differences in the expression of genes encoding molecules that are associated with neural differentiation, extracellular matrix, vascular development, Notch-related signaling and lipid metabolism. Many of the expression differences between wild-type and PS1-deficient animals were present at both E12.5 and E14.5, whereas other transcript alterations were characteristic of only one developmental stage. The results suggest that the role of PS1 in development includes influences on a highly co-regulated transcript network; some of the genes participating in this expression network may contribute to the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease.
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Lewis DA, Gurram NR, Abraham WT, Akers WS. Effect of nesiritide versus milrinone in the treatment of acute decompensated heart failure. Am J Health Syst Pharm 2003; 60 Suppl 4:S16-20. [PMID: 12966902 DOI: 10.1093/ajhp/60.suppl_4.s16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of nesiritide in the improvement of patient hemodynamics, decreased length of stay (LOS), and rehospitalization is discussed. Nesiritide is a useful agent for the treatment of the acutely decompensated heart failure patient. Previous trials suggest that the use of nesiritide results in improved outcomes as compared with other agents. To date, there are no data comparing nesiritide to milrinone in the treatment of the acutely decompensated heart failure patient. Fifty-five patients admitted to the heart failure service were identified retrospectively; 29 received nesiritide and 26 received milrinone. Baseline characteristics, hemodynamic data, and LOS data were collected. Primary outcomes were the overall LOS, intensive care LOS, and readmission within 30 days of discharge. Other outcomes included duration of vasoactive agents used, overall diuresis, and total cost of therapy. Baseline hemodynamic data were similar between groups. Patients in the milrinone group had an overall LOS of 8.2 days compared to 7 days in the nesiritide group (p = NS). LOS in the intensive care unit was 5.9 days in the milrinone group compared with 3.9 days in the nesiritide group (p = 0.007). Readmission at 30 days was 28% in the milrinone group compared with 16% in the nesiritide group (p = NS). Infusion time was shorter in the nesiritide group, 50 versus 117 hours (p = 0.001). Cost of therapy (cost of bed, supplies, and drug) was $398 less per patient receiving nesiritide. The use of nesiritide led to improvement in patient hemodynamics and resulted in a trend toward decreases in LOS and rehospitalization. Total cost of therapy was lower in the nesiritide group as compared to those patients treated with milrinone.
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