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Meyer NF, Erickson GE, Klopfenstein TJ, Greenquist MA, Luebbe MK, Williams P, Engstrom MA. Effect of essential oils, tylosin, and monensin on finishing steer performance, carcass characteristics, liver abscesses, ruminal fermentation, and digestibility1. J Anim Sci 2009; 87:2346-54. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2008-1493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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El-Shanawany T, Jolles S, Unsworth DJ, Williams P. A recipient of immunoglobulin from a donor who developed vCJD. Vox Sang 2009; 96:270. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1423-0410.2008.01148.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Harper NJN, Dixon T, Dugué P, Edgar DM, Fay A, Gooi HC, Herriot R, Hopkins P, Hunter JM, Mirakian R, Pumphrey RSH, Seneviratne SL, Walls AF, Williams P, Wildsmith JA, Wood P, Nasser AS, Powell RK, Mirakhur R, Soar J. Suspected anaphylactic reactions associated with anaesthesia. Anaesthesia 2009; 64:199-211. [PMID: 19143700 PMCID: PMC3082210 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2044.2008.05733.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
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Kung L, Williams P, Schmidt RJ, Hu W. A blend of essential plant oils used as an additive to alter silage fermentation or used as a feed additive for lactating dairy cows. J Dairy Sci 2009; 91:4793-800. [PMID: 19038954 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2008-1402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A blend of essential plant oils was evaluated for its effects on silage fermentation and animal performance. In the first experiment, the blend of essential oils was mixed with freshly chopped whole-plant corn to achieve a concentration of 0, 40, or 80 mg of active product per kilogram of fresh forage weight. Whole-plant corn was also mixed with a buffered propionic acid-based product at 0.2% of fresh forage weight. The blend of essential oils did not affect the populations of yeasts, molds, lactic acid bacteria, or enterobacteria; the fermentation end products; or the aerobic stability of the corn silage. Addition of the buffered propionic acid additive moderately reduced the production of acids during fermentation and resulted in a small reduction in the numbers of yeasts after ensiling, but did not affect aerobic stability. In a second experiment, 30 Holstein cows (4 primiparous and 26 multiparous) averaging 118 +/- 70 d in milk and producing 38 +/- 16 kg of milk/d were fed a total mixed ration, once daily, that consisted of (on a DM basis) 25% corn silage, 15% alfalfa silage, 10% alfalfa hay, and 50% concentrate. One-half of the cows were fed a blend of essential oils that was mixed directly into their total mixed ration to provide 1.2 g/cow per d for 9 wk. Cows fed the essential oils ate 1.9 kg more dry matter/d and produced 2.7 kg more 3.5% fat-corrected milk/d than did cows fed the control diet. The percentages of milk fat and protein, the somatic cell count numbers, and the concentrations of milk urea nitrogen were unaffected by treatment. Feed efficiency, change in body weight, and change in body condition scoring were also similar between treatments. After 12 h of incubation, the addition of a moderate dose and a high dose of essential oils to in vitro ruminal fermentations had no effect on the concentration of total VFA compared with the control treatment. However, they decreased the molar proportions of acetic, butyric, and valeric acids and increased the proportion of propionic acid. The blend of essential oils evaluated in this study altered in vitro ruminal fermentation and improved animal performance when fed directly to cows, but it did not affect the fermentation or aerobic stability of corn silage.
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Evans P, Hawkins K, Morris R, Thirumalai N, Munro R, Wakeman L, Lawrence M, Beddal A, Williams P. Gel point and fractal microstructure of incipient blood clots are significant new markers of haemostasis. Crit Care 2009. [PMCID: PMC4084322 DOI: 10.1186/cc7600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
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amoudi AA, Wright C, Williams P, Lovitt R, Hobiab AA. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) analysis of cleaned and fouled nanofiltration membranes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2009. [DOI: 10.1504/ijnbm.2009.027700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Noorani S, Richter A, Fenn M, Read G, Huissoon A, Williams P, Williams A, Krishna MT. Immediate hypersensitivity to latex in the absence of demonstrable specific immunoglobulin E. J Investig Allergol Clin Immunol 2009; 19:419-420. [PMID: 19862947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
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Soni N, Williams P. Positive pressure ventilation: what is the real cost? Br J Anaesth 2008; 101:446-57. [PMID: 18782885 DOI: 10.1093/bja/aen240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Positive pressure ventilation is a radical departure from the physiology of breathing spontaneously. The immediate physiological consequences of positive pressure ventilation such as haemodynamic changes are recognized, studied, and understood. There are other significant physiological interactions which are less obvious, more insidious, and may only produce complications if ventilation is prolonged. The interaction of positive pressure with airway resistance and alveolar compliance affects distribution of gas flow within the lung. The result is a wide range of ventilation efficacy throughout different areas of the lung, but the pressure differentials between alveolus and interstitium also influence capillary perfusion. The hydrostatic forces across the capillaries associated with the effects of raised venous pressures compound these changes resulting in interstitial fluid sequestration. This is increased by impaired lymphatic drainage which is secondary to raised intrathoracic pressure but also influenced by raised central venous pressure. Ventilation and PEEP promulgate further physiological derangement. In theory, avoiding these physiological disturbances in a rested lung may be better for the lung and other organs. An alternative to positive pressure ventilation might be to investigate oxygen supplementation of a physiologically neutral and rested lung. Abandoning heroic ventilation would be a massive departure from current practice but might be a more rationale approach to future practice.
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Karavolos MH, Spencer H, Bulmer DM, Thompson A, Winzer K, Williams P, Hinton JCD, Khan CMA. Adrenaline modulates the global transcriptional profile of Salmonella revealing a role in the antimicrobial peptide and oxidative stress resistance responses. BMC Genomics 2008; 9:458. [PMID: 18837991 PMCID: PMC2576261 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-9-458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2008] [Accepted: 10/06/2008] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The successful interaction of bacterial pathogens with host tissues requires the sensing of specific chemical and physical cues. The human gut contains a huge number of neurons involved in the secretion and sensing of a class of neuroendocrine hormones called catecholamines. Recently, in Escherichia coli O157:H7, the catecholamines adrenaline and noradrenaline were shown to act synergistically with a bacterial quorum sensing molecule, autoinducer 3 (AI-3), to affect bacterial virulence and motility. We wished to investigate the impact of adrenaline on the biology of Salmonella spp. Results We have determined the effect of adrenaline on the transcriptome of the gut pathogen Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. Addition of adrenaline led to an induction of key metal transport systems within 30 minutes of treatment. The oxidative stress responses employing manganese internalisation were also elicited. Cells lacking the key oxidative stress regulator OxyR showed reduced survival in the presence of adrenaline and complete restoration of growth upon addition of manganese. A significant reduction in the expression of the pmrHFIJKLM antimicrobial peptide resistance operon reduced the ability of Salmonella to survive polymyxin B following addition of adrenaline. Notably, both phenotypes were reversed by the addition of the β-adrenergic blocker propranolol. Our data suggest that the BasSR two component signal transduction system is the likely adrenaline sensor mediating the antimicrobial peptide response. Conclusion Salmonella are able to sense adrenaline and downregulate the antimicrobial peptide resistance pmr locus through the BasSR two component signalling system. Through iron transport, adrenaline may affect the oxidative stress balance of the cell requiring OxyR for normal growth. Both adrenaline effects can be inhibited by the addition of the β-adrenergic blocker propranolol. Adrenaline sensing may provide an environmental cue for the induction of the Salmonella stress response in anticipation of imminent host-derived oxidative stress. However, adrenaline may also serve in favour of the host defences by lowering antimicrobial peptide resistance and hence documenting for the first time such a function for a hormone.
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Williams P, Sewell WAC, Bunn C, Pumphrey R, Read G, Jolles S. Clinical immunology review series: an approach to the use of the immunology laboratory in the diagnosis of clinical allergy. Clin Exp Immunol 2008; 153:10-8. [PMID: 18577028 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03695.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last 10 years UK immunology laboratories have seen a dramatic increase in the number and range of allergy tests performed. The reasons for this have been an increase in the incidence of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic disease set against a background of greater public awareness and more referrals for assessment. Laboratory testing forms an integral part of a comprehensive allergy service and physicians treating patients with allergic disease need to have an up-to-date knowledge of the range of tests available, their performance parameters and interpretation as well as the accreditation status of the laboratory to which tests are being sent. The aim of this review is to describe the role of the immunology laboratory in the assessment of patients with IgE-mediated allergic disease and provide an up-to-date summary of the tests currently available, their sensitivity, specificity, interpretation and areas of future development.
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Fader M, Cottenden A, Getliffe K, Gage H, Clarke-O'Neill S, Jamieson K, Green N, Williams P, Brooks R, Malone-Lee J. Absorbent products for urinary/faecal incontinence: a comparative evaluation of key product designs. Health Technol Assess 2008; 12:iii-iv, ix-185. [DOI: 10.3310/hta12290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Cifelli P, Lewis S, Erskine P, Holland E, Williams P, Camara M, Knox A, Smyth A. An RCT of macerated garlic oil in patients with CF & chronic Pseudomonas aeruginosa. J Cyst Fibros 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/s1569-1993(08)60261-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Davies SJ, Lopez EG, Woodrow G, Donovan K, Plum J, Williams P, Johansson AC, Bosselmann HP, Heimburger O, Simonsen O, Davenport A, Lindholm B, Tranaeus A, Filho JCD. Longitudinal relationships between fluid status, inflammation, urine volume and plasma metabolites of icodextrin in patients randomized to glucose or icodextrin for the long exchange. Nephrol Dial Transplant 2008; 23:2982-8. [DOI: 10.1093/ndt/gfn176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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Molina JM, Cordes C, Ive P, Vibhagool A, Vanveggel S, Williams P, Boven K. Efficacy and safety of TMC278 in treatment-naïve, HIV-infected patients: week 96 data from TMC278-C204. J Int AIDS Soc 2008. [DOI: 10.1186/1758-2652-11-s1-p2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
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Gnanalingham MG, Williams P, Wilson V, Bispham J, Hyatt MA, Pellicano A, Budge H, Stephenson T, Symonds ME. Nutritional manipulation between early to mid-gestation: effects on uncoupling protein-2, glucocorticoid sensitivity, IGF-I receptor and cell proliferation but not apoptosis in the ovine placenta. Reproduction 2007; 134:615-23. [PMID: 17890297 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0369] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In sheep, modest maternal nutrient restriction (NR) over the period of rapid placental growth restricts placentome growth and results in offspring in which glucocorticoid action is enhanced. Therefore, this study investigated the placental effects of early to mid-gestational NR on glucocorticoid receptor (GR), 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11βHSD2), uncoupling protein-2 (UCP2), and IGF type-I receptor (IGF-IR) mRNA abundance together with cell proliferation and apoptosis as determined histologically, and the mitochondrial proteins voltage-dependent anion channel and cytochromecthat are involved in apoptosis. Placenta was sampled at 80 and 140 days gestation (dGA; term ~147 dGA). NR was imposed between 28 and 80 days gestation when control and nutrient-restricted groups consumed 150 or 60% respectively of their total metabolizable energy requirements. All mothers were then fed to requirements up to term. Total fetal placentome weights were decreased by NR at 80 dGA but were heavier at 140 dGA following 60 days of nutritional rehabilitation. GR and UCP2 mRNA abundance increased whilst 11βHSD2 mRNA decreased with gestational age. NR persistently up-regulated GR and UCP2 mRNA abundance. 11βHSD2 mRNA was reduced by NR at 80 dGA but increased near to term. IGF-IRmRNA abundance was only decreased at 80 dGA. Placental apoptosis and mitochondrial protein abundance were unaffected by NR, whereas cell proliferation was markedly reduced. In conclusion, placental UCP2 and local glucocorticoid action are affected by the gestational nutritional status and may result in the offspring showing enhanced glucocorticoid sensitivity, thereby predisposing them to disease in later life.
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Duke PJ, Williams P, Horn N, Iverson J, Leonhart V, Kong J, Montufar-Solis D. Studies of craniofacial development in rotating bioreactors. JOURNAL OF GRAVITATIONAL PHYSIOLOGY : A JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR GRAVITATIONAL PHYSIOLOGY 2007; 14:P123-P124. [PMID: 18372730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Several studies in our laboratory assessed the effect of 3-D culture in various rotating bioreactors on craniofacial development. Initially, mouse first branchial arches were cultured. Molar and incisor development occurred in both upper and lower jaws, but maxilla development was deficient because no brain was present. In a second study using excised whole heads, the oral epithelia fused and teeth did not develop. External structure of the face was obliterated, although internally, eye development was excellent. To preserve both internal spaces and external face structure, subsequent experiments used heads encapsulated in alginate. Teeth developed in these heads, though some interior components were necrotic. Additional experiments used older embryos, with already initiated structures, and less concentrated alginate. Orientation and unreserved identification of structures remain unresolved issues. Future studies will identify structures of interest using transcription factors unique to these structures at particular stages of fetal development.
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Duffy A, Capanu M, Abou-Alfa GK, Huitzel D, Williams P, Jarnagin W, Fong Y, Kelsen DP, O’Reilly EM. Gallbladder cancer (GBC): 10-year experience at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre (MSKCC). J Clin Oncol 2007. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2007.25.18_suppl.4648] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
4648 Background: The incidence of GBC in the US is 1.2/ 100,000. Given the dearth of phase III data on the use of adjuvant therapy, institutional review can provide a justification for future studies. This report examines the patterns of presentation, treatment and survival of a large cohort of patients with GBC evaluated at MSKCC over a 10-year period. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients referred to MSKCC with a diagnosis of GBC between 1/1995 and 12/ 2005 was performed. Patients were identified from the MSKCC cancer registry. Information extracted included, demographics, stage, surgical management, pathology, adjuvant and palliative therapy, date of relapse, death or last follow-up. Date of diagnosis was defined as date of surgery or biopsy. Univariate analysis of survival times and log rank test were employed. Results: 435 GBC cases were identified. 285 (65.5%) females,150 (34.5%) males. Median age 67 years (range 28–100). Pathology: 88% adeno, 4% squamous, 3% neuroendocrine, 2% sarcoma. 36.6% presented as AJCC Stage IV. 47% were discovered incidentally at laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC). 136 of these were re-explored, of whom 100 (73.5%) had residual disease. Of those who underwent curative resections, 8 received adjuvant chemotherapy, 2 adjuvant radiotherapy and 17 combined chemoradiation. Median OS for the cohort was 9.11 months(m). The median survival(MS) for those presenting with stage IV disease was 4.5 m (95% CI 3.8–6.1) compared to 12.9 m (95% CI 11.7–15.8 m) for those with stage IA-III disease. MS was better for those discovered incidentally at LC (15.7 m,p<.001). For those who underwent re-exploration, MS was 13.9 m if residual disease was present, and 68 m if no residual disease. The MS for those who received adjuvant therapy was 23.4 m. Conclusions: GBC is commonly diagnosed incidentally (47%) at LC. Re- exploration reveals a high incidence of residual disesase (74%). MS is better for patients diagnosed incidentally and those without evidence of disease on re-exploration. Overall prognosis is poor. Although the number of patients was small, adjuvant therapy appeared to confer a survival benefit. Prospective randomized trials of adjuvant therapy are needed in this disease. No significant financial relationships to disclose.
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Williams M, Clarke T, Williams P, Barton EN. The mean levels of adherence and factors contributing to non-adherence in patients on Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy. W INDIAN MED J 2007; 56:270-4. [DOI: 10.1590/s0043-31442007000300016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Boulet J, Williams P, Doco T. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study of wine polysaccharides. Carbohydr Polym 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.carbpol.2006.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Nyannor EKD, Williams P, Bedford MR, Adeola O. Corn expressing an Escherichia coli-derived phytase gene: a proof-of-concept nutritional study in pigs. J Anim Sci 2007; 85:1946-52. [PMID: 17468432 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2007-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Two experiments were conducted to investigate the concept that the addition of corn expressing an Escherichia coli-derived gene (corn-based phytase; CBP) to a P-deficient diet would improve growth performance and P utilization in pigs. An E. coli-derived microbial phytase (expressed in Pichia pastoris) sprayed onto a wheat carrier (Quantum) was included for comparison. In Exp. 1, forty-eight 10-kg pigs were blocked by BW into 6 blocks and allotted to 8 dietary treatments such that the BW among dietary treatments was similar and given free access to feed for 28 d. The dietary treatments were a negative control (NC) with no inorganic P supplementation; NC + 2, 4, or 6 g of monosodium phosphate/kg; NC + 16,500, 33,000, or 49,500 phytase units (FTU) of CBP/kg; and NC + 16,500 FTU of Quantum/kg. In Exp. 2, twenty-four 13-kg barrows were assigned to the NC, NC + 16,500 or 33,000 FTU of CBP/kg, or NC + 16,500 FTU of Quantum/kg, in a nutrient- and energy-balance study consisting of 5 d of adjustment and 5-d collection periods. The total collection method was used to determine nutrient and energy balance. Addition of CBP to the low-P NC diet linearly increased (P < 0.01) ADG, G:F, and plasma P concentration of pigs during the 28-d study. There was no difference in ADG, G:F, or plasma P concentration between pigs fed the CBP or Quantum phytase at 16,500 FTU/kg. Weight gain, G:F, and plasma P concentration of pigs increased (P < 0.01) with monosodium phosphate supplementation, confirming P deficiency of the NC diet. Linear improvements (P < 0.05) in DM digestibility and energy retention were observed with CBP supplementation of the NC diet. Although there were linear (P < 0.01) and quadratic (P < 0.05) increases in N digestibility, N retention was unaffected by CBP supplementation of the NC diet in growing pigs. Phosphorus and Ca digestibilities and retentions improved linearly and quadratically (P < 0.01) with the addition of CBP to the NC diet. There was no difference in digestive utilization of P or Ca between pigs fed CBP and Quantum phytase at 16,500 FTU/kg. The data showed that the addition of a corn expressing an E. coli-derived gene to a P-deficient diet improved growth performance and indices of P utilization in pigs, and corn expressing phytase was as efficacious as Quantum phytase when supplemented in P-deficient diets for weanling pigs.
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Williams P. Mile high CPD. Br Dent J 2007; 202:237. [PMID: 17351564 DOI: 10.1038/bdj.2007.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Lewis AC, Evans MJ, Methven J, Watson N, Lee JD, Hopkins JR, Purvis RM, Arnold SR, McQuaid JB, Whalley LK, Pilling MJ, Heard DE, Monks PS, Parker AE, Reeves CE, Oram DE, Mills G, Bandy BJ, Stewart D, Coe H, Williams P, Crosier J. Chemical composition observed over the mid-Atlantic and the detection of pollution signatures far from source regions. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.1029/2006jd007584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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Banks MK, Schwab AP, Cofield N, Alleman JE, Switzenbaum M, Shalabi J, Williams P. Biosolids-amended soils: Part I. Effect of biosolids application on soil quality and ecotoxicity. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2006; 78:2217-30. [PMID: 17120441 DOI: 10.2175/106143005x86637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Investigations of potential risk from biosolids generally indicate that land application does not threaten human or ecosystem health, but questions continue to arise concerning the environmental effects of this practice. This research project was initiated to evaluate ecotoxicity resulting from the amendment of soils with biosolids from municipal wastewater treatment plants. Toxicity was evaluated using standard tests, including earthworm mortality, growth, and reproduction; seedling germination and root elongation; microbial respiration; and nematode mortality and reproduction. Nineteen municipal wastewater treatment plants were identified to participate in an initial screening of toxicity, and five were chosen for a more detailed evaluation. In addition, two soils with historically high applications of high-metal biosolids were evaluated. Contaminants examined were zinc, copper, nickel, chromium, arsenic, cadmium, lead, and coplanar polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Single applications had no effect on soil metal concentrations. Coplanar PCBs were not detectable in any of the soils or biosolids. All target organisms were sensitive to reference toxicants. Limited toxicity was observed in a small number of the amended soils, but no patterns emerged. Approximately one-half of the negative effects of biosolids on bioindicators could be attributed to routine properties, such as slight depression of pH and/or elevated salinity. None of the accumulated metal concentrations were excessive, and most would not be considered elevated. These observations suggest that current regulations for application of biosolids to soils are providing adequate ecosystem protection.
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Dawson M, Williams P, Long M, Watson TR. Synthesis and purification of [4′-3H]-mebendazole. J Labelled Comp Radiopharm 2006. [DOI: 10.1002/jlcr.2580220710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
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Sunderman FW, Williams P. Some limitations of the Carius digestion for the measurement of chloride in biological material. Biochem J 2006; 27:1578-80. [PMID: 16745273 PMCID: PMC1253069 DOI: 10.1042/bj0271578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Sunderman FW, Austin JH, Williams P. STUDIES OF SERUM ELECTROLYTES: VIII. The Concentration of Electrolytes and Non-Electrolytes in the Serum Following Insulin Administration in Diabetic Patients. J Clin Invest 2006; 11:1261-71. [PMID: 16694100 PMCID: PMC435877 DOI: 10.1172/jci100475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Tran NH, Dennis GR, Milev AS, Kannangara GSK, Williams P, Wilson MA, Lamb RN. Dispersion of organically modified clays within n-alcohols. J Colloid Interface Sci 2006; 297:541-5. [PMID: 16343522 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcis.2005.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2005] [Revised: 11/02/2005] [Accepted: 11/03/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
A method for formation of polymer-clay nanocomposites involves dispersion of the nanometer silicate layers of clays into a solvent, followed by dispersion into polymers. The dispersion of layered silicates within solvents affects the structure and properties of the nanocomposites. We report the dispersion of organically modified clays, used for formation of nanocomposites with organic polymers, within a range of alcohol solvents. Experiments involved stirring a mixture containing approximately 1 wt% of alkylammonium-modified clays in n-alcohols with general molecular structure RnOH, where n represents the number of carbons of alkyl chains, varying from 2 to 8. The clays precipitated from the dispersion when RnOH solvents with n<5 were used, however, they formed gels for solvents with n5. The increased dispersion was related to the decrease of polarity and hydrogen bonding force within solvents. X-ray diffraction for the dispersed clays indicated that the interlayer spaces (1.8 nm), formed by regular stacking of the silicate layers, expanded to a maximum of 3.0 nm after treatment with RnOH with n5. The interlayer expansion was due to the intercalation of n-alcohol molecules within the interlayer spaces. It is suggested that the alkyl chains of n-alcohols remain parallel to the silicate surface in the intercalate. Preliminary experiments on the influence of these alcohol solvents on the intercalation of polyol (polyether) are also reported.
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Williams P. Red wine mouthwash. Br Dent J 2006; 200:477. [PMID: 16703064 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.4813578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Williams P. No more infected sockets? Br Dent J 2006; 200:124. [PMID: 16474321 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bdj.4813242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Hallai N, Thompson I, Williams P, Anstey AVA. Folliculitis spinulosa decalvans: failure to respond to oral isotretinoin. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2006; 20:223-4. [PMID: 16441642 DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2005.01367.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Baird RE, Trigiano RN, Windham G, Williams P, Kelley R, Abbas HK, Moulton JK, Scruggs ML. Comparison of Aflatoxigenic and Nonaflatoxigenic Isolates of Aspergillus flavus using DNA Amplification Fingerprinting Techniques. Mycopathologia 2006; 161:93-9. [PMID: 16463092 DOI: 10.1007/s11046-005-0121-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2005] [Accepted: 10/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Aspergillus flavus is a filamentous fungus that produces mycotoxins in many food and feed crops, such as maize (Zea mays L.). Isolates were analyzed for toxin production by nucleic acid profiles in an attempt to differentiate aflatoxigenic from nonaflatoxigenic isolates. A total of 41 aflatoxigenic and 34 nonalfatoxigenic isolates were included in the study. The isolates were evaluated initially using DNA amplification fingerprinting (DAF) without clear resolution of the groups. A weak association of aflatoxigenic isolates was observed, as evidenced by their clustering in 18 of 81 trees recovered from maximum parsimony analysis of binary characters derived from arbitrary signatures from amplification profiles (ASAP) data; nonaflatoxigenic isolates exhibited a pattern of paraphyletic laddering. Up to five markers unambiguously supported the aflatoxigenic isolate grouping, but the presence of alternative conflicting topologies in equally parsimonious trees precluded the observation of meaningful statistical support. With additional markers for genome of A. flavus, this method could be used to resolve toxigenic from nontoxigenic strains. This additional work could resolve aflatoxigenic isolates of A. flavus present on maize plants using ASAP, which would reduce labor intense costs and potentially lead to faster determination of resistant cultivars in breeding efforts.
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Jones D, Franklin C, Butler BT, Williams P, Wells KB, Rodríguez MA. The Building Wellness project: a case history of partnership, power sharing, and compromise. Ethn Dis 2006; 16:S54-66. [PMID: 16681129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Institute of Medicine has recommended development of community-focused strategies to alleviate the disproportionate burden of illness on minorities, including depression. So far, limited data exist on the process of developing such partnerships within diverse racial/ethnic environments as they strive to develop community-driven, evidence-based action plans to improve the quality of outreach services. We describe such an effort around depression in south Los Angeles and explore the issues of the process in the hopes of informing future partnership development. METHODS Community meetings, presentations, feedback, discussion groups, and consensus-based action items were implemented over an 18-month period. A writing subcommittee was designated to develop a description of the group's work and process, as well as the diverse perspectives in the partnership. Data sources included meeting minutes, materials for members and community feedback presentations, scribe notes, and the reflections of the authors. RESULTS Development was seen on the formal group level, in the process, and on the realization of three categories of action plans. Designed to assist social service caseworkers in the recognition of and referral for depression, the action plans included developing a website, a tool kit (modified Delphi process), and a one-page depression "fact sheet" with region-specific referrals. CONCLUSION Through the process of developing a means to combat depression in a racially/ ethnically diverse population, the community is not only better informed about depression but has become a true partner with the academic element in adapting these programs for local service providers, resulting in improved understanding of the partnership process.
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Richardson HA, Clarke IC, Williams P, Donaldson T, Oonishi H. Precision and Accuracy in Ceramic-on-Ceramic Wear Analyses: Influence of Simulator Test Duration. Proc Inst Mech Eng H 2005; 219:401-5. [PMID: 16312099 DOI: 10.1243/095441105x34428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
In this, the first report of precision and accuracy in simulator studies, ceramic-ceramic implants with ultra-low wear trends represented a relevant wear model. The effect of test durations was examined in a standard simulator test mode on the quality of the linear regression trends, the average wear estimates, and the amount of noise in the data. Three sets of diametral tolerances were compared in 28 mm diameter alumina implants. The authors' hypothesis was that wear data would be significantly improved with increased test durations. The average wear rates varied little with test duration, the biggest change amounting to only 30 and 15 per cent decreases in the wear estimate by 10 and 14 million cycles respectively. The most satisfactory improvement in the study was the decrease in variance (noise) with increasing duration, ±200 per cent at 5 million cycles reduced to ±55 per cent at 14 million cycles. The quality of the linear regression coefficients improved 150 per cent by 10 million cycles and 250 per cent by 14 million cycles. Overall the ceramic implants with highest diametral tolerances showed the least wear (15 per cent less, but not statistically significant). However, given such low wear rates for alumina liners, it was unlikely that any differences owing to diametral tolerances would be clinically significant in the typical patient.
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Abstract
Autologous "blood patching" has been used successfully for the treatment of persistent air leak in patients with spontaneous secondary pneumothorax. The case history is presented of a 19 year old woman with cystic fibrosis who developed tension pneumothorax following this procedure, with rapid clinical deterioration until the obstruction was cleared. To avoid this potentially fatal complication we recommend that "blood patch" pleurodesis be performed only through large bore intercostal catheters, that blood is rapidly transferred into the catheter tubing, a sterile saline flush and full resuscitation equipment is available, and the operator is skilled in the management of tension pneumothorax.
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Oviedo-Rondón E, Clemente-Hernández S, Williams P, Losa R. Responses of Coccidia-Vaccinated Broilers to Essential Oil Blends Supplementation up to Forty-Nine Days of Age. J APPL POULTRY RES 2005. [DOI: 10.1093/japr/14.4.657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Franzreb K, Hrušák J, Alikhani ME, Lörinčík J, Sobers RC, Williams P. Erratum: Gas-phase diatomic trications of Se23+, Te23+, and LaF3+ [J. Chem. Phys. 121, 12293 (2004)]. J Chem Phys 2005. [DOI: 10.1063/1.2135774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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O'Riordan J, Williams P, Donnellan J. HCV and HIV-1 donor screening using nucleic acid amplification technique (NAT). Vox Sang 2005; 89:266. [PMID: 16262763 DOI: 10.1111/j.1423-0410.2005.00695.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Pritchard DI, Todd I, Brown A, Bycroft BW, Chhabra SR, Williams P, Wood P. Alleviation of insulitis and moderation of diabetes in NOD mice following treatment with a synthetic Pseudomonas aeruginosa signal molecule, N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone. Acta Diabetol 2005; 42:119-22. [PMID: 16258734 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-005-0190-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2004] [Accepted: 07/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Quorum sensing signal molecules (QSSMs) from the bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa control bacterial population density and the expression of virulence determinants. Coincidentally, and possibly to allow this pathogen to gain a foothold in the human body, certain signal molecules also downregulate immunological responses in an apparently T-helper 1-selective manner, which would suggest their application as therapeutics to some autoimmune diseases. In the present paper, experiments are described that indicate that one particular signal molecule, a synthetic N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone, can be used to alleviate insulitis and diabetes in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, suggesting that bacterial signal molecules may represent a novel source of immune modulatory compounds for the treatment of type 1 diabetes, which afflicts more than 2 million individuals in Europe and North America.
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Ueno NT, Rondon G, Williams P, Champlin RE, Murray JL, Cristofanilli M, Royce M, Walter RB, Theriault RL, Hortobagyi GN, Valero V. Trastuzumab plus GM-CSF for patients with trastuzumab-resistant, HER2-overexpressing metastatic breast cancer: Pilot study. J Clin Oncol 2005. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.23.16_suppl.803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Farmer IP, Johnson LF, Gupta D, Grutsch JF, Granick J, Williams P, Wodek T, Lis CG. Is there a need for multiple measures in assessing quality of life in oncology? J Clin Oncol 2005. [DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.23.16_suppl.8098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
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Brealey SD, King DG, Hahn S, Crowe M, Williams P, Rutter P, Crane S. Radiographers and radiologists reporting plain radiograph requests from accident and emergency and general practice. Clin Radiol 2005; 60:710-7. [PMID: 16038699 DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2004.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2004] [Revised: 11/19/2004] [Accepted: 11/24/2004] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
AIM To assess selectively trained radiographers and consultant radiologists reporting plain radiographs for the Accident and Emergency Department (A&E) and general practitioners (GPs) within a typical hospital setting. METHODS Two radiographers, a group of eight consultant radiologists, and a reference standard radiologist independently reported under controlled conditions a retrospectively selected, random, stratified sample of 400 A&E and 400 GP plain radiographs. An independent consultant radiologist judged whether the radiographer and radiologist reports agreed with the reference standard report. Clinicians then assessed whether radiographer and radiologist incorrect reports affected confidence in their diagnosis and treatment plans, and patient outcome. RESULTS For A&E and GP plain radiographs, respectively, there was a 1% (95% confidence interval (CI) -2 to 5) and 4% (95% CI -1 to 8) difference in reporting accuracy between the two professional groups. For both A&E and GP cases there was an 8% difference in the clinicians' confidence in their diagnosis based on radiographer or radiologist incorrect reports. For A&E and GP cases, respectively, there was a 2% and 8% difference in the clinicians' confidence in their management plans based on radiographer or radiologist incorrect reports. For A&E and GP cases, respectively, there was a 1% and 11% difference in effect on patient outcome of radiographer or radiologist incorrect reports. CONCLUSION There is the potential to extend the reporting role of selectively trained radiographers to include plain radiographs for all A&E and GP patients. Further research conducted during clinical practice at a number of sites is recommended.
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Ferrari MD, Goadsby PJ, Lipton RB, Dodick DW, Cutrer FM, McCrory D, Williams P. The use of multiattribute decision models in evaluating triptan treatment options in migraine. J Neurol 2005; 252:1026-32. [PMID: 15761676 DOI: 10.1007/s00415-005-0769-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2003] [Revised: 03/23/2004] [Accepted: 11/12/2004] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The physician treating patients with migraine is now able to choose from among seven triptans-almotriptan, eletriptan, frovatriptan, naratriptan, rizatriptan, sumatriptan and zolmitriptan. These differ, to greater or lesser degrees, on a range of clinical attributes important for treatment selection. OBJECTIVE To outline the basic principles of Multiattribute Decision Making (MADM) and describe how one such method-TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution)-can be applied to evaluate the currently available triptans. METHODS In an example application, summary data from a recent meta-analysis of 53 published and unpublished placebo-controlled trials of the oral triptans were combined in TOPSIS models with computer-generated attribute importance weights representing the entire range of possible values, That is, the relative performance of the triptans was explored across all logically possible combinations of relative importance of the treatment attributes available from the meta-analysis, and uncertainty was assessed based on the confidence intervals from the meta-analysis. RESULTS When compared across the entire range of values for relative attribute importance, almotriptan, eletriptan and rizatriptan were more similar to a hypothetical ideal triptan and were more likely to appear in the top three closest to the hypothetical ideal, than were naratriptan, sumatriptan, and zolmitriptan. CONCLUSION Using the TOPSIS model, almotriptan, eletriptan and rizatriptan were more likely to appear in the top three closest to the hypothetical ideal triptan.
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Lipton RB, Cutrer FM, Goadsby PJ, Ferrari MD, Dodick DW, McCrory D, Liberman JN, Williams P. How treatment priorities influence triptan preferences in clinical practice: perspectives of migraine sufferers, neurologists, and primary care physicians. Curr Med Res Opin 2005; 21:413-24. [PMID: 15811210 DOI: 10.1185/030079905x36387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In treating migraine sufferers, physicians can choose from among seven triptans with different attributes. OBJECTIVE To develop a system for selecting an oral triptan based on treatment priorities of migraine sufferers, neurologists, and primary care physicians (PCPs) in the United States, and evidence-based performance of triptans in clinical trials. METHODS The TRIPSTAR project combines data on the treatment preferences of migraineurs and physicians with results from a meta-analysis of individual triptans, which evaluated their effectiveness on various clinical endpoints. Telephone interviews with migraine sufferers, neurol ogists, and PCPs were conducted to elicit individual views on the relative importance of a prespecified set of acute treatment outcomes. Four hundred and fifteen migraine sufferers, both triptan-experienced and triptan-naive, were interviewed. Also, 200 board-certified neurologists and 200 PCPs provided information on migraine patients from their clinical practice. A multiattribute decision model for selecting an oral triptan was constructed using attribute importance weights collected at telephone interview and the meta-analysis data, which were drawn from 53 clinical trials of 6 oral triptans. RESULTS Efficacy attributes were rated significantly more important than tolerability or consistency in selecting an oral triptan, according to migraine sufferers and physicians. Freedom from cardiovascular adverse events was the most important tolerability attribute, according to migraine sufferers and physicians alike. Pain free at 1 h was the most important lower-level efficacy attribute for migraine sufferers, while sustained pain free was most important for physicians. When weighted treatment attributes were combined with meta-analysis data in a multi-attribute decision model, almotriptan 12.5 mg, eletriptan 80 mg, and rizatriptan 10 mg were significantly closer to the hypothetical ideal triptan than was suma triptan 100 mg. Triptans selected by the model were generally closer to the patient-specific ideal triptan than were the triptans prescribed by physicians. CONCLUSIONS Almotriptan, eletriptan, and rizatriptan were the three triptans closest to the ideal, from the perspectives of migraine sufferers, PCPs, and neurologists alike. The TRIPSTAR model may be a potentially useful decision-support tool to help physicians select the triptan most likely to produce a successful outcome in migraine sufferers.
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Szeinbach S, Williams P, Kucukarslan S. Evaluation of allergic rhinitis by patient care group: relationship between testing, symptoms, activities, quality of life, and productivity. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2005. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2004.12.1020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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McLaurin EY, Holliday SL, Williams P, Brey RL. Predictors of cognitive dysfunction in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Neurology 2005; 64:297-303. [PMID: 15668428 DOI: 10.1212/01.wnl.0000149640.78684.ea] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate predictors of cognitive dysfunction in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS The authors evaluated 123 patients enrolled in the San Antonio Lupus Study of Neuropsychiatric Disease (SALUD) who had completed at least 3 years of follow-up. Study visits occurred every 4 months and included a standard medical history, physical examination, and cognitive testing. Blood was obtained at each study visit for autoantibody testing. RESULTS There were 116 (94.3%) women and 7 (5.7%) men (mean age = 41.5 [+/-12.0] years). Patients had the following vascular risk factors: hypercholesterolemia (17.1%), diabetes (21.1%), and hypertension (48.0%). Consistent medication use included aspirin (21.1%), prednisone (65.0%), nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (42.3%), and hydroxychloroquine (58.5%). The numbers of patients with consistently positive autoantibody levels were as follows: antiphospholipid, 54%; anti-beta-2-glycoprotein 1, 73%; and anti-ribosomal P, 17%. Factors significantly associated with declining cognitive function were consistently positive antiphospholipid antibodies, consistent prednisone use, diabetes, higher depression scores, and less education. The association of prednisone and poorer cognitive function was seen primarily in the middle age group and could not be totally explained by SLE-associated disease activity. Consistent aspirin use was associated with improved cognitive function, primarily in the oldest age group, especially if diabetes was also present. CONCLUSIONS Regular aspirin use is associated with improved cognitive function in older patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) in conjunction with the presence of other vascular risk factors. Regular prednisone use is associated with decreased cognitive functioning in middle-aged patients with SLE. Although this prednisone effect was independent of measures of SLE-associated disease activity, the authors cannot exclude the possibility that consistent prednisone use is a surrogate for more severe disease.
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Brown SS, Kawanabe K, Manaka M, Williams P, Good V, Clarke IC. Discerning alumina ball wear from confounding metal transfer artifact. J Biomed Mater Res B Appl Biomater 2005; 75:400-4. [PMID: 16037941 DOI: 10.1002/jbm.b.30327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
On dismounting a ceramic femoral ball from its metal trunnion, there is usually a range of gray metallic bands transferred to the trunnion bore inside the ball. This creates an artifact that may compromise detection by weight of the exceedingly low wear rates of ceramic balls. The objective of this study was to compare the weight trending of the metal trunnions and their ceramic balls during conditioning studies. Our hypothesis was that a pretest conditioning protocol would eliminate or greatly reduce the metal transfer artifact. The balls and tapers were placed on a hip simulator under 300-600 load cycles but with no articulation. The balls were then dismounted from the trunnions, and both were cleaned and weighed. This was repeated 6-23 times. We developed a novel hydraulic method for dismounting balls from trunnions that proved to be safe and efficient. There was significant weight loss in the trunnions after the ball removal, but there was no corresponding weight gain in the alumina balls. The weight effect of the metal transfer appeared to have been removed from the balls with our standard cleaning procedures. Therefore, wear rates for alumina balls may be gravimetrically determined without compensating for the metal transfer from trunnion to ball.
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Archer HL, Gupta S, Enoch S, Thompson P, Rowbottom A, Chua I, Warren S, Johnson D, Ledbetter DH, Lese-Martin C, Williams P, Pilz DT. Distinct phenotype associated with a cryptic subtelomeric deletion of 19p13.3-pter. Am J Med Genet A 2005; 136:38-44. [PMID: 15937949 DOI: 10.1002/ajmg.a.30774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Telomeres are gene rich regions with a high recombination rate. Cryptic subtelomeric rearrangements are estimated to account for 5% of mental retardation/malformation syndromes. Here we present the first patient with a deletion of 19p13.3, identified by subtelomeric FISH analysis. His features included a distinctive facial appearance, cleft palate, hearing impairment, congenital heart malformation, keloid scarring, immune dysregulation, and mild learning difficulties. Subtelomeric FISH analysis identified a deletion of 19p13.3-pter. The deletion size was determined to be 1.2 Mb by FISH analysis. It extended from within the chromosomal region covered by BAC RP11-50C6 to 19pter. The deleted area encompassed approximately 60 genes. Fifteen possible candidate genes were considered with respect to the phenotype, including follistatin-related precursor 3 (FSTL3) and serine-threonine kinase 11 (STK-11).
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Koerber AJ, King JR, Williams P. Deterministic and stochastic modelling of endosome escape by Staphylococcus aureus: ?quorum? sensing by a single bacterium. J Math Biol 2004; 50:440-88. [PMID: 15549313 DOI: 10.1007/s00285-004-0296-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2004] [Revised: 08/26/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Deterministic and stochastic models describing quorum sensing by Staphylococcus aureus within an endosome, and the subsequent escape via the production of virulence factors, are developed and analysed. Particular attention is given to a biologically-relevant asymptotic limit of the problem, for which the solutions, including the endosome escape time, can be explicitly characterised in terms of the model parameters.
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Anguige K, King JR, Ward JP, Williams P. Mathematical modelling of therapies targeted at bacterial quorum sensing. Math Biosci 2004; 192:39-83. [PMID: 15494175 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2004.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2003] [Revised: 05/20/2004] [Accepted: 06/09/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Bacteria commonly use diffusible signal molecules to synchronise their behaviour by facilitating population dependent co-ordination. This cell-to-cell signalling mechanism is known as quorum sensing (QS) and provides a way of ensuring that certain genes are 'switched on' only when a certain signal concentration (typically corresponding to a large population density) has been reached. In this paper we focus on the QS system of the human pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which employs a complex hierarchy of QS signalling systems, which regulate the formation of multiple exoproducts, swarming and biofilm differentiation. In P. aeruginosa, the signal molecules are N-acylated homoserine lactones (AHLs; e.g., N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-homoserine lactone [3-oxo-C12-HSL]), which bind to transcriptional regulator proteins (LasR in the case of 3-oxo-C12-HSL) to activate the expression of target genes including lasI, which codes for the 3-oxo-C12-HSL synthase. Since the virulence of P. aeruginosa is controlled by QS, agents (QSBs) designed to block this cell-to-cell communication have potential as novel antibacterials. By drawing on existing models for the reaction kinetics of this system, we model a growing population subject to treatment with two kinds of QSB, together with a conventional antibiotic. The first kind of QSB is assumed to act by diffusing through the cell membrane and then destabilising/sequestering LasR, while the second kind remains outside the cell and degrades the AHL signal molecule itself. Numerical and mathematical analysis of the resulting systems of ordinary differential equations reveals in particular that, while a sufficiently high dose of QSB is, in all cases considered, able to reduce the AHL concentration (and hence virulence) to a negligible level, the qualitative response to treatment is sensitive to parameter values.
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Ward JP, King JR, Koerber AJ, Croft JM, Sockett RE, Williams P. Cell-signalling repression in bacterial quorum sensing. MATHEMATICAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY-A JOURNAL OF THE IMA 2004; 21:169-204. [PMID: 15471245 DOI: 10.1093/imammb/21.3.169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
In this paper we expand on two mathematical models for investigating the role of three distinct repression mechanisms within the so-called quorum sensing (QS) cell-signalling process of bacterial colonies growing (1) in liquid cultures and (2) in biofilms. The repression mechanisms studied are (i) reduction of cell signalling molecule (QSM) production by a constitutively produced agent degrading the messenger RNA of a crucial enzyme (QSE), (ii) lower QSM production rate due to a negative feedback process and (iii) loss of QSMs by binding directly to a constitutively produced agent; the first two mechanisms are known to be employed by the pathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the last is relevant to the plant pathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The modelling approach assumes that the bacterial colony consists of two sub-populations, namely down- and up-regulated cells, that differ in the rates at which they produce QSMs, while QSM concentration governs the switching between sub-populations. Parameter estimates are obtained by curve-fitting experimental data (involving P. aeruginosa growth in liquid culture, obtained as part of this study) to solutions of model (1). Asymptotic analysis of the model (1) shows that mechanism (i) is necessary, but not sufficient, to predict the observed saturation of QSM levels in an exponentially growing colony; either mechanism (ii) or (iii) also needs to be incorporated to obtain saturation. Consequently, only a fraction of the population will become up-regulated. Furthermore, only mechanisms (i) and (iii) affect the main timescales for up-regulation. Repression was found to play a less significant role in a biofilms, but mechanisms (i)-(iii) were nevertheless found to reduce the ultimate up-regulated cell fraction and mechanisms (i) and (iii) to increase the timescale for substantial up-regulation and to decrease the wave speed of an expanding front of QS activity.
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