1
|
Offiah C, Tierney S, Egan B, Collins RD, Ryan DJ, McCarthy AJ, Smith DR, Mahon J, Boyle E, Delaney H, O 'Donohoe R, Hurley A, Walsh RA, Murphy SM, Bogdanova-Mihaylova P, O 'Dowd S, Kelly MJ, Omer T, Coughlan T, O'Neill D, Martin M, Murphy SJX, McCabe DJH. Correction to: Frequency of inter‑specialty consensus decisions and adherence to advice following discussion at a weekly neurovascular multidisciplinary meeting. Ir J Med Sci 2024; 193:541. [PMID: 37269449 PMCID: PMC10808139 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03396-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Chika Offiah
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Tierney
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bridget Egan
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ronán D Collins
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age‑Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Ryan
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age‑Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Allan J McCarthy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre R Smith
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - James Mahon
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age‑Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emily Boyle
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Holly Delaney
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rory O 'Donohoe
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alison Hurley
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Richard A Walsh
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinead M Murphy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Petya Bogdanova-Mihaylova
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean O 'Dowd
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark J Kelly
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Taha Omer
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tara Coughlan
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age‑Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Desmond O'Neill
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age‑Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Martin
- Dept. of Geriatric and Stroke Medicine, Naas General Hospital, Naas, Ireland
| | - Stephen J X Murphy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dominick J H McCabe
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free Campus, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Present Address: Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, c/o Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital /AMNCH, Tallaght, Dublin 24, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Offiah C, Tierney S, Egan B, Collins RD, Ryan DJ, McCarthy AJ, Smith DR, Mahon J, Boyle E, Delaney H, O 'Donohoe R, Hurley A, Walsh RA, Murphy SM, Bogdanova-Mihaylova P, O 'Dowd S, Kelly MJ, Omer T, Coughlan T, O'Neill D, Martin M, Murphy SJX, McCabe DJH. Frequency of inter-specialty consensus decisions and adherence to advice following discussion at a weekly neurovascular multidisciplinary meeting. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:3051-3062. [PMID: 37081289 PMCID: PMC10119010 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-023-03319-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Data are limited on the frequency of 'consensus decisions' between sub-specialists attending a neurovascular multidisciplinary meeting (MDM) regarding management of patients with extracranial carotid/vertebral stenoses and post-MDM 'adherence' to such advice. METHODS This prospective audit/quality improvement project collated prospectively-recorded data from a weekly Neurovascular/Stroke Centre MDM documenting the proportion of extracranial carotid/vertebral stenosis patients in whom 'consensus management decisions' were reached by neurologists, vascular surgeons, stroke physicians-geriatricians and neuroradiologists. Adherence to MDM advice was analysed in asymptomatic carotid stenosis (ACS), symptomatic carotid stenosis (SCS), 'indeterminate symptomatic status stenosis' (ISS) and vertebral artery stenosis (VAS) patients, including intervals between index event to MDM + / - intervention. RESULTS One hundred fifteen patients were discussed: 108 with carotid stenosis and 7 with VAS. Consensus regarding management was noted in 96.5% (111/115): 100% with ACS and VAS, 96.2% with SCS and 92.9% with ISS. Adherence to MDM management advice was 96.4% (107/111): 100% in ACS, ISS and VAS patients; 92% (46/50) in SCS patients. The median interval from index symptoms to revascularisation in 50-99% SCS patients was 12.5 days (IQR: 9-18.3 days; N = 26), with a median interval from MDM to revascularisation of 5.5 days (IQR: 1-7 days). Thirty patients underwent revascularisation. Two out of twenty-nine patients (6.9%) with either SCS or ISS had a peri-procedural ipsilateral ischaemic stroke, with no further strokes/deaths during 3-months follow-up. CONCLUSIONS The high frequency of inter-specialty consensus regarding management and adherence to proposed treatment supports a collaborative/multidisciplinary model of care in patients with extracranial arterial stenoses. Service development should aim to shorten times between MDM discussion-intervention and optimise prevention of stroke/death.
Collapse
Grants
- Meath Foundation, Vascular Neurology Research Foundation,
- The Adelaide Health Foundation Ireland, Enterprise Ireland-Innovation Partnership Programme
- Trinity College Dublin Innovation Bursary, The Meath Foundation, Ireland, Joint Irish Institute of Clinical Neuroscience/Merck Serono Fellowship in Neuroscience Grant, The Vascular Neurology Research Foundation Ireland, Bayer HealthCare, Ireland and Verum
- The Meath Foundation, Ireland; The Adelaide Health Foundation, Ireland; The Vascular Neurology Research Foundation Ireland; the Enterprise Ireland-Innovation Partnership Programme (co-funded by the European Regional Development Fund); and by unrestricted e
- University of Dublin, Trinity College
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chika Offiah
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean Tierney
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bridget Egan
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Ronán D Collins
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Daniel J Ryan
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Allan J McCarthy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Deirdre R Smith
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - James Mahon
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Emily Boyle
- Dept. of Vascular Surgery, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Holly Delaney
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Rory O 'Donohoe
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alison Hurley
- Dept. of Radiology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Richard A Walsh
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sinead M Murphy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Petya Bogdanova-Mihaylova
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Sean O 'Dowd
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark J Kelly
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Taha Omer
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Tara Coughlan
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Desmond O'Neill
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Dept. of Age-Related Health Care, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mary Martin
- Dept. of Geriatric and Stroke Medicine, Naas General Hospital, Naas, Ireland
| | - Stephen J X Murphy
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland
| | - Dominick J H McCabe
- Dept. of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Stroke Service, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) / The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH), Dublin, Ireland.
- Dept. of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free Campus, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK.
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland.
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, c/o Department of Neurology, Tallaght University Hospital /AMNCH, Tallaght, Dublin, 24, Ireland.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Offiah C, Tierney S, Egan B, Collins DR, Ryan DJ, McCarthy AJ, Smith DR, Boyle E, Delaney H, McCabe DJH. 202 Frequency of inter-specialty consensus decisions and adherence to advice following a weekly neurovascular multidisciplinary meeting. J Neurol Psychiatry 2022. [DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2022-abn2.246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Background/AimsData are limited on the frequency of ‘consensus’ between sub-specialists attending a neurovascular multidisciplinary meeting (MDM) regarding management of patients with extracranial carotid/vertebral stenoses, and post-MDM ‘adherence’ to advice. This prospective audit/quality improve- ment project collated data at a Neurovascular/Stroke Centre.MethodsData from a weekly MDM were prospectively-recorded to document the proportion of extrac- ranial carotid/vertebral stenosis patients in whom ‘consensus management decisions’ were reached by Neurologists/Vascular Surgeons/Stroke Physicians-Geriatricians. Adherence to MDM advice was analysed in patients with asymptomatic, symptomatic and ‘indeterminate symptomatic status [ISS]’ stenoses, including intervals between symptom onset-MDM discussion +/- intervention.Results115 patients were discussed (September/2017-February/2020). Consensus regarding manage- ment was 96.5% (111/115) overall; 100% (29/29) with asymptomatic carotid stenosis [ACS], 96.5% (55/57) with symptomatic carotid stenosis [SCS], and 93.1% (27/29) with ISS. Overall adherence to MDM advice was 93% (107/115); 100% (29/29) with ACS, 89.5% (51/57) with SCS, 93.1% (27/29) with ISS. Median interval from index TIA/stroke to intervention was 12.5 days (IQR:9-18d), and MDM discussion-to-intervention was 5.5d (IQR:1-7d) in patients with 50-99% SCS.ConclusionsHigh-frequency inter-specialty consensus regarding management/adherence to proposed treatment supports a collaborative, multidisciplinary model-of-care in patients with extracranial arterial stenosis. Service development should shorten intervals between symptoms-MDT discussion-intervention to optimise secondary prevention.
Collapse
|
4
|
Murphy OC, Wrigley S, Walsh RA, Freir DB, McCarthy AJ, O'Dowd S, McCabe DJH. Assessment of the adequacy of counselling regarding reproductive-related issues in women of childbearing age on anti-epileptic drugs. QJM 2021; 114:233-237. [PMID: 32298454 DOI: 10.1093/qjmed/hcaa131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) in women of childbearing age (WCBA) necessitates careful counselling regarding reproductive-related issues. AIM (i) To compare documentation of appropriate counselling regarding reproductive-related issues in WCBA prescribed AEDs for non-epilepsy vs. epilepsy indications, and (ii) to examine whether the frequency of counselling improved after introduction of 'standardized typed advice'. DESIGN Retrospective audit and quality assessment and improvement programme. METHODS We analysed medical records of all WCBA prescribed gabapentin, pregabalin, topiramate, valproate or carbamazepine by a general neurology clinical service before (Study period A) and after (Study period B) introduction of standardized typed passages regarding potential teratogenicity ± interactions with hormonal contraception at a university teaching hospital. The χ2 test or the Fisher's exact test was employed, as appropriate. RESULTS In WCBA prescribed AEDs for non-epilepsy indications, documentation of appropriate counselling regarding potential teratogenicity improved from 49% (17/35 patients) in Period A to 79% (27/34 patients) in Period B (P = 0.008). The frequency of counselling regarding teratogenicity was higher in patients prescribed AEDs for epilepsy compared with non-epilepsy indications in Study period A (100% vs. 49%, P = 0.002), but was no longer significantly different in Study period B (86% vs. 79%, P = 0.64). Documentation of counselling regarding potential interaction of enzyme-inducing AEDs with hormonal contraception did not significantly change between study periods. CONCLUSION Significant improvements in documentation regarding potential teratogenicity of AEDs prescribed for non-epilepsy indications can be achieved by introducing standardized, typed passages copied to patients. Such a practice change is practical and widely applicable to neurological and non-neurological practice worldwide.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- O C Murphy
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Department of Neurology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N Wolfe St, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - S Wrigley
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
| | - R A Walsh
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - D B Freir
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
| | - A J McCarthy
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Stroke Service, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, D24 NR0A, Ireland
| | - S O'Dowd
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Stroke Service, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, D24 NR0A, Ireland
| | - D J H McCabe
- Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Academic Unit of Neurology, School of Medicine, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin 2, Ireland
- Stroke Service, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, D24 NR0A, Ireland
- Department of Clinical Neurosciences, Royal Free Campus, UCL Queen Square Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- Vascular Neurology Research Foundation, C/O Department of Neurology, The Adelaide and Meath Hospital, Dublin, incorporating the National Children's Hospital (AMNCH) / Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin D24 NR0A, Ireland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Kilburn C, Rooks DJ, McCarthy AJ, Murray RD. Antimicrobial Resistance in Some Gram-Negative Bacteria Isolated from the Bovine Ejaculate. Reprod Domest Anim 2013; 48:525-8. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Accepted: 10/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- C Kilburn
- Institute of Translational Medicine and School of Veterinary Science; University of Liverpool; Neston; UK
| | - DJ Rooks
- Microbiology Research Group; Institute of Integrative Biology; University of Liverpool; Liverpool; UK
| | - AJ McCarthy
- Microbiology Research Group; Institute of Integrative Biology; University of Liverpool; Liverpool; UK
| | - RD Murray
- Institute of Translational Medicine and School of Veterinary Science; University of Liverpool; Neston; UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Volponi G, Rooks DJ, Smith DL, Picozzi C, Allison HE, Vigentini I, Foschino R, McCarthy AJ. Short communication: Characterization of Shiga toxin 2-carrying bacteriophages induced from Shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli isolated from Italian dairy products. J Dairy Sci 2012; 95:6949-56. [PMID: 22999287 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2012-5831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2012] [Accepted: 08/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Forty samples of raw milk cheese and 25 samples of raw milk itself were subjected to enrichment culture for Shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli (STEC), and a single Shiga toxin 2- (Stx(2)) positive strain was obtained from one of the cheese samples. Thus, aged cheeses in which the curd is subsequently heat treated (48°C) cannot be presumed to be STEC free. Infective Stx(2) bacteriophages were induced from 3 STEC strains isolated elsewhere from raw milk and 1 STEC strain from aged cheese sourced in Italy. Data on E. coli host range, morphology, genome size, and genetic variation determined by restriction fragment length polymorphism and multi-locus genotyping are presented. Although all 4 bacteriophages were found to be short-tailed Podoviridae, they exhibited considerable variation in both genome size and content. This extended to the Stx(2) genes themselves, whose sequences contained several point mutations, but these did not translate to amino acid substitutions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G Volponi
- Dipartmento di Scienze e Tecnologie Alimentari e Microbiologiche, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abstract
The ad-8 gene of Neurospora crassa, in addition to being used for the study of purine biology, has been extensively studied as a model for gene structure, mutagenesis and intralocus recombination. Because of this there is an extensive collection of well-characterized N. crassa ad-8 mutants in the Fungal Genetics Stock Center collection. Among these are spontaneous mutants and mutants induced with X-ray, UV or chemical mutagens. The specific lesions in these mutants have been genetically mapped at high resolution. We have sequenced the ad-8 locus from 13 of these mutants and identified the molecular nature of the mutation in each strain. We compare the historical fine-structure map to the DNA and amino acid sequence of each allele. The placement of the individual lesions in the fine-structure map was more accurate at the 5' end of the gene and no mutants were identified in the 3' untranslated region of this gene. We additionally analysed ad-8(+) alleles in 18 N. crassa strains subjected to whole-genome sequence analysis and describe the variability among Neurospora strains and among fungi and other organisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Wiest
- Fungal Genetics Stock Center, University of Missouri Kansas City, School of Biological Sciences, 5007 Rockhill Road, Kansas City, MO 64113, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
8
|
Abstract
The sheep has worldwide agricultural importance, yet the genetic control of the immune responses underlying susceptibility or resistance to ovine disease is little understood. Here, we identify six novel polymorphisms in the ovine immune response genes interferon-γ (IFNG), tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF), interleukin-1β (IL1B) and interleukin-4 (IL4) in pedigree Charollais flocks. We confirm the presence of previously reported polymorphisms in IFNG and IL1B in Charollais. Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) genotyping assays have been developed for four polymorphisms, IFNGg.168C>T, IFNGg.285A>G, IL1Bg.689C>T and TNFg.3UTRA>G, and a Taqman genotyping assay has been developed for IL4g.485C>T. The previously described IL2g.647C>T polymorphism is adapted for RFLP analysis. Allele frequencies are described in Charollais, Lleyn and Suffolk cross sheep. Polymorphisms are typed in both Charollais ewes and lambs and analysed against abortion phenotypes. A subset of animals have also been analysed for the presence of Toxoplasma gondii, an abortion-causing protozoan. The IFNGg.168T allele is shown to be associated with increased risk of a ewe having an abortion, while the IFNGg.285G allele is associated with increased risk of a lamb being aborted. These assays provide tools for the investigation of the genetic basis of other phenotypes in sheep, including infectious disease susceptibility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R J Darlay
- Institute of Integrative and Comparative Biology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bachmann SL, McCarthy AJ. Purification and Cooperative Activity of Enzymes Constituting the Xylan-Degrading System of Thermomonospora fusca. Appl Environ Microbiol 2010; 57:2121-30. [PMID: 16348531 PMCID: PMC183538 DOI: 10.1128/aem.57.8.2121-2130.1991] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The thermophilic actinomycete Thermomonospora fusca produced endoxylanase, alpha-arabinofuranosidase, beta-xylosidase, and acetyl esterase activities maximally during growth on xylan. Growth yields on glucose, xylose, or arabinose were comparable, but production of endoxylanase and beta-xylosidase was not induced on these substrates. The crude xylanase activity was thermostable and relatively resistant to end product inhibition by xylobiose and xylan hydrolysis products. Six proteins with xylanase activity were identified by zymogram analysis of isoelectric focusing gels, but only a 32-kDa protein exhibiting three isomeric forms could be purified by fast protein liquid chromatography. Endoglucanases were also identified in carboxymethylcellulose-grown cultures, and their distinction from endoxylanases was confirmed. alpha-Arabinofuranosidase activity was due to a single dimeric protein of 92 kDa, which was particularly resistant to end product inhibition by arabinose. Three bands of acetyl esterase activity were detected by zymogram analysis, and there was evidence that these mainly consisted of an intracellular 80-kDa protein secreted to yield active 40-kDa subunits in the culture supernatant. The acetyl esterases were found to be responsible for acetyl xylan esterase activity in T. fusca, in contrast to the distinction proposed in some other systems. The addition of purified betaxylosidase to endoxylanase increased the hydrolysis of xylan, probably by relieving end product inhibition. The enhanced saccharification of wheat straw caused by the addition of purified alpha-arabinofuranosidase to T. fusca endoxylanase suggested a truly synergistic relationship, in agreement with proposals that arabinose side groups on the xylan chain participate in cross-linking within the plant cell wall structure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S L Bachmann
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, P.O. Box 147, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
A diverse collection of actinomycete strains were screened for production of extracellular peroxidase activity by adapting a chemiluminescence analysis system developed for horseradish peroxidase-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Extracellular peroxidase activity was found to be common but quantitatively variable, and this rapid and sensitive screening system permitted identification of a small group of high-producing strains. A range of spectrophotometric assays were compared for the measurement of peroxidase activity in concentrated culture supernatants of two selected thermophilic streptomycetes. Of these, the peroxide-dependent oxidation of 2,4-dichlorophenol was identified as the most robust and reproducible assay for quantitative studies.
Collapse
|
11
|
Jaspers CJ, Ewbank G, McCarthy AJ, Penninckx MJ. Successive rapid reductive dehalogenation and mineralization of pentachlorophenol by the indigenous microflora of farmyard manure compost. J Appl Microbiol 2002; 92:127-33. [PMID: 11849336 DOI: 10.1046/j.1365-2672.2002.01520.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To determine whether composting with animal manure can be used to effectively remediate soil from a pentachlorophenol (PCP)-contaminated site, and to establish the fate of the degraded xenobiotic. METHODS AND RESULTS Contaminated soil from a sawmill site was mixed with farm animal manure and composted in a 0.5 m3 silo under fully aerobic conditions. The disappearance and fate of PCP was monitored by gas chromatography (GC-ECD) and extensive mineralization confirmed in experiments with 14C-radiolabelled PCP. The disappearance of PCP was rapid and virtually complete within 6 days, prior to the onset of thermophilic conditions. Dechlorination of the PCP was found to be both reductive and sequential. CONCLUSIONS PCP removal from contaminated soil by aerobic composting with animal manure is efficient and proceeds via reductive dechlorination to virtually complete mineralization. This contrasts with other chlorophenol composting regimes in which mineralization is achieved but dechlorination intermediates do not accumulate to detectable levels. SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY The results of this study demonstrate that anaerobic reductive dechlorination can proceed in an aerobic composting environment and contribute to efficient pentachlorophenol removal. Farmyard manure composts may represent a rapid, low-cost, low-technology option for treatment of chlorophenol-contaminated soils.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C J Jaspers
- Section Interfacultaire d'Agronomie, Laboratoire de Physiologie et Ecologie Microbienne, Université Libre de Bruxelles, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Abstract
Primer sets specific for 16S rRNA genes were designed for four phylogenetic groups of clostridia known to contain mesophilic cellulolytic species. Specific amplification of these groups from landfill leachate DNA extracts demonstrated the widespread occurrence of clostridia from the Clostridium thermocellum and C. leptum groups. In contrast, the C. botulinum group was never detected, and the C. coccoides-C. lentocellum group was only occasionally detected. Amplification products were analyzed by temporal thermal gel electrophoresis to generate profiles of the clostridial groups and to identify dominant bands. Sequence analysis of 17 landfill clones confirmed that the primers were specific for the clostridial subgroups and that the cloned sequences had a close relationship with known cellulose-degrading clostridia. The primers have therefore been authenticated for use in the rapid identification of clostridia in anaerobic environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M I Van Dyke
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 7ZB, United Kingdom.
| | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
James CE, Stanley KN, Allison HE, Flint HJ, Stewart CS, Sharp RJ, Saunders JR, McCarthy AJ. Lytic and lysogenic infection of diverse Escherichia coli and Shigella strains with a verocytotoxigenic bacteriophage. Appl Environ Microbiol 2001; 67:4335-7. [PMID: 11526041 PMCID: PMC93165 DOI: 10.1128/aem.67.9.4335-4337.2001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
A verocytotoxigenic bacteriophage isolated from a strain of enterohemorrhagic Escherichia coli O157, into which a kanamycin resistance gene (aph3) had been inserted to inactivate the verocytotoxin gene (vt2), was used to infect Enterobacteriaceae strains. A number of Shigella and E. coli strains were susceptible to lysogenic infection, and a smooth E. coli isolate (O107) was also susceptible to lytic infection. The lysogenized strains included different smooth E. coli serotypes of both human and animal origin, indicating that this bacteriophage has a substantial capacity to disseminate verocytotoxin genes. A novel indirect plaque assay utilizing an E. coli recA441 mutant in which phage-infected cells can enter only the lytic cycle, enabling detection of all infective phage, was developed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C E James
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, United Kingdom
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Whitby CB, Saunders JR, Pickup RW, McCarthy AJ. A comparison of ammonia-oxidiser populations in eutrophic and oligotrophic basins of a large freshwater lake. Antonie Van Leeuwenhoek 2001; 79:179-88. [PMID: 11520004 DOI: 10.1023/a:1010202211368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
A combination of PCR amplification and oligonucleotide probing was used to investigate the populations of ammonia-oxidisers of the beta-Proteobacteria in the eutrophic and oligotrophic basins of Lake Windermere, a large temperate lake in the English Lake District. Numbers of ammonia-oxidisers (MPN) in the Windermere lakewater were low (< 100 cells ml(-1)) throughout the year with the exception of peaks in August, which coincided with stratification, and November in the South Basin where overturn may have introduced ammonia-oxidising bacteria into the water column. Sediment samples contained larger populations of ammonia oxidisers, usually ca. 10(4) per g. dry weight, which remained relatively constant throughout the seasonal cycle in both Basins. DNA was recovered from lakewater and sediment samples and Nitrosospira and N. europaea-eutropha lineage 16S rRNA genes amplified in a nested PCR reaction, with confirmation of identity by oligonucleotide hybridisation. Nitrosospira 16S rDNA was readily detected in all samples and therefore found to be ubiquitous. In contrast, nitrosomonad DNA of the N. europaea-eutropha lineage could only be detected in the oligotrophic North Basin. Enrichment cultures of lakewater samples only exhibited nitrification at low (0.67 mM) and medium (5 mM) ammonium concentrations, whilst sediment enrichments nitrified at all concentrations tested including high (12.5 mM) ammonium medium. These data suggest that ammonia-oxidiser populations may be physiologically distinguished between lakewater and sediment, and that species distribution in a single lake is non-uniform.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C B Whitby
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hastings RC, Butler C, Singleton I, Saunders JR, McCarthy AJ. Analysis of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria populations in acid forest soil during conditions of moisture limitation. Lett Appl Microbiol 2000; 30:14-8. [PMID: 10728553 DOI: 10.1046/j.1472-765x.2000.00630.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Ammonia-oxidizer numbers decreased under conditions of moisture limitation in litter, fermentation and humus layers of forest soil in the field, but the extent of regrowth after rehydration varied between layers. Nitrosospira 16S rRNA genes were amplified from all layers, regardless of moisture content or soil pH which varied between 4.1 and 5.2. Nitrosomonas spp. were detected less often, but appeared to exhibit more rapid recovery than the Nitrosospira spp. when drought conditions were relieved by rainfall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R C Hastings
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
McCarthy AJ, Kingman HM, Kelly C, Taylor GS, Caul EO, Grier D, Moppett J, Foot AB, Cornish JM, Oakhill A, Steward CG, Pamphilon DH, Marks DI. The outcome of 26 patients with respiratory syncytial virus infection following allogeneic stem cell transplantation. Bone Marrow Transplant 1999; 24:1315-22. [PMID: 10627641 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bmt.1702078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is known to cause acute lung injury in the immunocompromised host, especially recipients of bone marrow allografts. Specific prognostic factors for the development of severe life-threatening disease remain to be identified as does the optimum treatment of established disease. Over a 5-year period the incidence and outcome of RSV in BMT recipients was analysed retrospectively. Prognostic factors assessed included type of transplant, engraftment status at the time of infection, the presence of lower respiratory tract disease, viral genotype and treatment received. During the study period, 26 of 336 (6.3%) allogeneic stem-cell recipients were identified as having RSV. Five patients (19.2%) died as a direct result of RSV. One patient died secondary to an intracranial bleed with concomitant RSV. There were four patients with graft failure (two primary and two secondary) attributable to the presence of RSV, two of whom subsequently died of infections related to prolonged myelosuppression. The presence of lower respiratory tract infection and a poor overall outcome was the only statistically significant association. Unrelated donor transplants and AML as the underlying disease appeared to be associated with a poorer outcome. Engraftment status, viral genotype and RSV treatment received did not correlate with outcome. We conclude that future studies are required to identify early sensitive and reproducible prognostic factors of RSV in the immunocompromised host. The roles of intravenous and nebulised ribavirin need to be clarified by prospective controlled trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J McCarthy
- Bone Marrow Transplant Unit, Bristol Royal Hospital for Sick Children, United Bristol Healthcare Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND The treatment of relapsed and refractory leukemia in children remains a challenge. The morbidity of further chemotherapy is considerable, as most patients have already been exposed to intensive multiagent chemotherapy. The FLAG (fludarabine, high-dose cytarabine, and G-CSF) regimen is as intensive but less cardiotoxic because of the avoidance of anthracyclines. PROCEDURE Nineteen children were treated in two U.K. centers with the FLAG regimen for relapsed and refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). There were 13 males and 6 females, with an age range of 1.9 to 14.2 years. AML was the diagnosis in 12 children, ALL in 4, biphenotypic leukemia in 3. Eight patients had refractory disease, 11 were in relapse (5 in first relapse, 4 in second, and 2 in third). RESULTS Complete remission was obtained in 13 patients, partial remission was obtained in 4, and 2 patients were considered nonresponders. There were seven patients alive at 12 months (mean) posttherapy; one of these is awaiting bone marrow transplantation (BMT). All patients experienced grade 4 hematological toxicity; no patient died of infection. Thirteen patients received BMT as consolidation (seven unrelated donor; six sibling allografts). Six of these have died, four due to pneumonitis. CONCLUSIONS FLAG can be regarded as an effective protocol for inducing remission in a group of heavily pretreated children. Its toxicity is acceptable due to the avoidance of anthracyclines.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J McCarthy
- Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
McDonald IR, Riley PW, Sharp RJ, McCarthy AJ. Survival of Plasmid-Containing Bacillus subtilis Released into Mushroom Compost. Microb Ecol 1998; 36:51-59. [PMID: 9622564 DOI: 10.1007/s002489900092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- IR McDonald
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, Post Office Box 147, Liverpool, L69 3BX, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Rixon JE, Clarke JH, Hazlewood GP, Hoyland RW, McCarthy AJ, Gilbert HJ. Do the non-catalytic polysaccharide-binding domains and linker regions enhance the biobleaching properties of modular xylanases? Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 1996; 46:514-20. [PMID: 9008884 DOI: 10.1007/s002530050853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Xylanase A (XylA) from Pseudomonas fluorescens subsp. cellulosa consists of an N-terminal non-catalytic cellulose-binding domain joined to a functionally independent C-terminal catalytic domain by a sequence rich in serine residues. Xylanase D (XylD) from Cellulomonas fimi also exhibits a modular structure comprising an N-terminal catalytic domain linked to an internal non-catalytic xylan-binding domain and a C-terminal cellulose-binding domain. To determine the importance of the non-catalytic polysaccharide-binding domains and linker sequences of XylA and XylD in relation to their capacity to hydrolyse pulp xylan and enhance bleachability, purified full-length and modified derivatives of both enzymes were incubated with a hardwood kraft pulp. Deletion of the cellulose-binding domain or linker region from XylA decreased the activity of the enzyme against pulp xylan, but had no significant effect on the capacity of the enzyme to facilitate delignification and reduce pulp kappa number. While full-length and truncated forms of XylD, lacking either the cellulose-binding or the cellulose- and xylan-binding domains, were equally effective in hydrolysing pulp xylan, enzyme derivatives containing a polysaccharide-binding domain were marginally more efficient in reducing pulp kappa number. The reduction in kappa number elicited by full-length and isolated catalytic domains of XylA and XylD was reflected in an increase in the brightness of paper handsheets derived from pretreated pulps. Thus, the polysaccharide-binding domains of XylA and XylD did not appear to confer any advantage in terms of the ability of the enzymes to improve pulp bleachability. However, XylA and XylD, which belong to different glycosyl hydrolase families, differed in their ability to hydrolyse pulp xylan and facilitate the delignification of kraft pulp.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J E Rixon
- Department of Biological and Nutritional Sciences, University of Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
McCarthy AJ. What's in store for physicians who treat the elderly. Manag Care 1996; 5:21-4, 26-8. [PMID: 10160139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
|
21
|
|
22
|
Affiliation(s)
- A J McCarthy
- Department of Paediatric Oncology, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Camperdown, Sydney, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Hiorns WD, Hastings RC, Head IM, McCarthy AJ, Saunders JR, Pickup RW, Hall GH. Amplification of 16S ribosomal RNA genes of autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria demonstrates the ubiquity of nitrosospiras in the environment. Microbiology (Reading) 1995; 141 ( Pt 11):2793-800. [PMID: 8535507 DOI: 10.1099/13500872-141-11-2793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Oligonucleotide sequences selected from the 16S rRNA genes of various species of ammonia-oxidizing bacteria were evaluated as specific PCR amplification primers and probes. The specificities of primer pairs for eubacterial, Nitrosospira and Nitrosomonas rRNA genes were established with sequence databases, and the primer pairs were used to amplify DNA from laboratory cultures and environmental samples. Eubacterial rRNA genes amplified from samples of soil and activated sludge hybridized with an oligonucleotide probe specific for Nitrosospira spp., but not with a Nitrosomonas-specific probe. Lakewater and sediment samples were analysed using a nested PCR technique in which eubacterial rRNA genes were subjected to a secondary amplification with Nitrosomonas or Nitrosospira specific primers. Again, the presence of Nitrosospira DNA, but not Nitrosomonas DNA, was detected and this was confirmed by hybridization of the amplified DNA with an internal oligonucleotide probe. Enrichments of lakewater and sediment samples, incubated for two weeks in the presence of ammonium, produced nitrite and were found to contain DNA from both Nitrosospira and Nitrosomonas as determined by nested PCR amplification and probing of 16S rRNA genes. This demonstrates that Nitrosospira spp. are widespread in the environment. The implications of the detection of Nitrosomonas DNA only after enrichment culture are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W D Hiorns
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
Bacillus subtilis 168 trp- was found to be transformable with the tetracycline resistance plasmid pAB124 by electroporation of whole cells, inconsistently and at very low frequencies. Supplementation of the growth medium with glycine, or particularly DL-threonine, produced cells that could be electrotransformed much more efficiently at frequencies up to 2.5 x 10(3) transformants per microgram plasmid DNA. Transformation was optimal with cells grown in medium containing a racemic mixture of the D- and L-isomers of threonine, and no transformants were obtained when pure forms of the D- and L-threonine isomers were used. The cell walls of B. subtilis grown in the presence or absence of D-, L- and DL-threonine had a similar amino acid composition which did not include threonine. A more complex biochemical explanation of the enhancement of electroporation by growth in DL-threonine is likely, and this is discussed. Lysozyme treatments to weaken the cell wall and possibly mimic the effect of DL-threonine did not yield any transformants. The effects of buffer composition and culture incubation time were also determined and the electroporation protocol optimized accordingly. The response of a range of other B. subtilis strains to electroporation by the method produced was found to be variable. In all cases, transformation was verified by recovery of the plasmid DNA from putative transformants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I R McDonald
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Perito B, Hanhart E, Irdani T, Iqbal M, McCarthy AJ, Mastromei G. Characterization and sequence analysis of a Streptomyces rochei A2 endoglucanase-encoding gene. Gene 1994; 148:119-24. [PMID: 7523249 DOI: 10.1016/0378-1119(94)90244-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A 7-kb fragment of Streptomyces rochei A2 chromosomal DNA was cloned into pAT153 and shown to confer endoglucanase (EglS) activity on Escherichia coli cells. In E. coli clones, the EglS was secreted into the periplasm. Deletion analysis revealed that an 827-bp fragment was enough for the enzymatic activity. Sequence analysis showed that the 827-bp fragment codes for the catalytic domain of the enzyme. The complete sequence of the gene (eglS) is 1149-bp long. A signal peptide, a catalytic domain and a cellulose-binding domain were identified from the nucleotide sequence, and the EglS found to belong to the family H of cellulase catalytic domains. These conclusions were substantiated by determination of the N-terminal sequence of the purified protein and zymogram analysis, which revealed protein species with a molecular mass equal to that deduced from the nt sequence analysis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- B Perito
- Department of Animal Biology and Genetics Leo Pardi, University of Florence, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Head IM, Hiorns WD, Embley TM, McCarthy AJ, Saunders JR. The phylogeny of autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria as determined by analysis of 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences. J Gen Microbiol 1993; 139 Pt 6:1147-53. [PMID: 7689633 DOI: 10.1099/00221287-139-6-1147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 178] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Partial sequences of the 16S ribosomal RNA genes of eleven autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria were determined by PCR amplification from small amounts of heat-lysed biomass followed by direct sequencing of PCR products. The sequences were aligned with those of representative Proteobacteria and phylogenetic trees inferred using both parsimony and distance matrix methods. This confirmed that the autotrophic ammonia-oxidizers comprise two major lines of descent within the Proteobacteria. Nitrosomonas spp., Nitrosococcus mobilis, and strains of Nitrosovibrio, Nitrosospira and Nitrosolobus were located in the beta-subdivision. The recovery of Nitrosococcus oceanus strains as a deep branch in the gamma-subdivision supported the RNA catalogue data which had indicated that the genus Nitrosococcus is polyphyletic. The autotrophic ammonia-oxidizing bacteria of the beta-Proteobacteria formed a coherent group which is interpreted as representing a single family. Within this clade, the genera Nitrosovibrio, Nitrosospira and Nitrosolobus exhibited very high levels of homology in their 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequences and can be accommodated within a single genus. Separation of these genera is currently based entirely on gross morphological differences and these can now be considered more appropriate for the identification of species within this group. It is therefore proposed that Nitrosolobus, Nitrosovibrio and Nitrosospira strains be reclassified in a single genus for which the name Nitrosospira has priority.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I M Head
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
The diversity of form in the Actinomycetales is well-recognised, due to the sustained generation of environmental isolates for pharmaceutical screening. Actinomycetes isolated from soil and related substrates show primary biodegradative activity, secreting a range of extracellular enzymes and exhibiting the capacity to metabolise recalcitrant molecules. Composting is one process which relies heavily on such prolific actinomycete activity. Amongst actinomycetes in soil, there are examples of different strategies, from cycles of rapid proliferation and sporulation to the maintenance of populations by prolonged slow growth and scavenging, and the evidence for this is examined. The mechanisms of lignocellulose degradation by actinomycetes are discussed in relation to functional conservation within the group, and correlations with those described in other bacteria and fungi.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A J McCarthy
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
Survival of Bacillus subtilis strain 168 containing plasmid pAB224, which carries a gene for tetracycline resistance, was studied in mushroom compost under mesophilic and thermophilic conditions. Stable populations of B. subtilis were maintained as spores in both sterile and fresh mushroom compost incubated at 37 degrees C. At 65 degrees C, the introduced B. subtilis populations declined during incubation but spores were still detectable after 28 d. Survival at the higher temperature was greater in fresh than in sterile compost. There was no apparent loss of plasmid pAB224 or plasmid-determined phenotype from the introduced B. subtilis population at either incubation temperature. The frequency of tetracycline resistance in the indigenous Bacillus population was very low (10(-5), but some tetracycline-resistant isolates contained plasmid DNA. Four plasmid DNA profiles were found associated with five Bacillus phenotypes, and some evidence for homology with pAB224 was found. However, pAB224 was found to be a suitable marker for release studies because it was easily recovered, readily distinguished from indigenous plasmids on agarose gels, and was maintained in compost-grown B. subtilis 168 in the absence of any selective pressure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Amner
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, UK
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Abstract
Actinomycetes grown on wheat straw solubilized a lignocarbohydrate fraction which could be recovered by acid precipitation. Further characterization of this product (APPL) during growth of
Streptomyces
sp. strain EC1 revealed an increase in carboxylic acid and phenolic hydroxyl content, suggesting progressive modification. This was also observed in dioxane-extracted lignin fractions of degraded straw, and some similarity was further suggested by comparative infrared spectroscopy. However, the molecular weight profile of APPL was relatively constant during growth of
Streptomyces
sp. strain EC1 on straw, while analysis of the dioxane-extracted lignin fractions appeared to show fragmentation followed by repolymerization. Lignocarbohydrate solubilization could be monitored in all cultures by routine assay of APPL-associated protein, which accounted for up to 20% of the extracellular culture protein in some cases. Interestingly, this protein fraction was found to include active hydrolytic and oxidative enzymes involved in the degradation of lignocellulose, and specific enzyme activities were often increased in the acid-insoluble fractions of culture supernatants. This was particularly important for peroxidase and veratryl oxidase activities, which could be readily detected in the acid-precipitable lignocarbohydrate complex but were virtually undetectable in untreated culture supernatants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A S Ball
- Department of Genetics & Microbiology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom, and Unité de Physiologie et Ecologie Microbienne, Faculté des Sciences, Université Libre de Bruxelles, CERIA 1, B-1070 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Abstract
A new medium, which we propose to call R8, was developed for the isolation and enumeration of the thermophilic actinomycete, Saccharomonospora viridis. This organism has been implicated in a range of hypersensitivity pneumonitides, including farmer's lung, but is generally isolated in small numbers from contaminated environments. Recovery of S. viridis from moldy hay and mushroom compost on R8 medium was compared with recovery on conventional media. S. viridis was isolated from both substrates but in highest numbers and most consistently on the R8 medium. The selectivity of this medium was best observed when the sedimentation chamber method was used for hay samples. Here S. viridis accounted for up to 80% of the total number of actinomycetes recovered on R8 and could not be recovered on rifampin selective medium under the same conditions. R8 was also found to be an efficient recovery medium for a range of thermophilic actinomycetes from mushroom compost and for another allergenic species, Faenia rectivirgula, from moldy hay. Contamination of isolation plates by thermophilic bacilli was reduced on R8 compared with the activity on half-strength tryptone soy agar, supplemented with 0.2% casein hydrolysate, and this, together with specific improvements in S. viridis growth, accounts for the selective effect. It is possible that the occurrence of S. viridis and its role as a causative agent of hypersensitivity pnuemonitis have been underestimated by the use of suboptimal recovery protocols. It is hoped that use of R8 in conjunction with dilution plate techniques will generate information on the ecology of S. viridis and contribute to health risk assessment studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Amner
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Abstract
Evidence for activity against the lignin fraction of straw was produced for a range of actinomycete strains. Decolorization of the polymeric dye Poly R and oxidation of veratryl alcohol, indicators of ligninolytic activity in white rot fungi, and utilization of fractionated Kraft lignin and low-molecular-weight methoxylated aromatic compounds were the criteria used. The relationships between these activities and the solubilization of native lignin are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A S Ball
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, P.O. Box 147, Liverpool L69 3BX, England
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Amner W, McCarthy AJ, Edwards C. Quantitative Assessment of Factors Affecting the Recovery of Indigenous and Released Thermophilic Bacteria from Compost. Appl Environ Microbiol 1988; 54:3107-12. [PMID: 16347800 PMCID: PMC204434 DOI: 10.1128/aem.54.12.3107-3112.1988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Thermophilic actinomycetes and bacilli were recovered from mushroom compost by conventional dilution plating and sedimentation chamber-Andersen sampler methods. Excessive growth of thermophilic bacilli on dilution plates accounted for the poor recovery and limited diversity of actinomycete colonies, and this result was largely unaffected by the use of modified extraction procedures and diluents. Assessment of the actinomycete population was more successfully achieved by applying the sedimentation chamber method, by using selective media, or both. Background resistance of the compost microflora to selective agents (kanamycin, novobiocin, tetracycline, thiostrepton, and NaCl) was extremely varied, but both actinomycetes and bacilli were particularly sensitive to tetracycline. The selective isolation of
Thermoactinomyces
spp. and
Thermomonospora chromogena
by novobiocin and kanamycin, respectively, was shown to be reproducible, and the use of high concentrations of kanamycin resulted in the isolation of a novel group of unidentified thermophilic actinomycetes. Comparison of nonselective nutrient media demonstrated that the nutrient-rich protoplast regeneration medium R5 was surprisingly efficient for actinomycete recovery. This medium was found to be particularly appropriate for the recovery of
Saccharomonospora viridis
BD125, introduced as spores into both sterile and fresh samples of mushroom compost. This stable pigmented variant of the
S. viridis
strains indigenous to compost was released at concentrations of up to 10
7
spores g of compost
−1
in order to provide information for future experiments on the release and recovery of genetically manipulated strains. The detection limits for this strain were in the region of 10
2
g
−1
from sterilized compost but only 10
5
g
−1
from nonsterile compost. These figures correspond to mean recovery efficiencies of approximately 70% (sterilized compost) and 53% (fresh compost) of viable spores released. Further improvements in the detection and recovery of
S. viridis
strains released into compost should be achieved by the introduction of selectable markers developed from this information on the antibiotic resistance profile of the indigenous compost microflora.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W Amner
- Department of Genetics and Microbiology, University of Liverpool, P.O. Box 147, Liverpool L69 3BX, United Kingdom
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Jones MP, McCarthy AJ, Cross T. Taxonomic and serologic studies on Micropolyspora faeni and Micropolyspora strains from soil bearing the specific epithet rectivirgula. J Gen Microbiol 1979; 115:343-54. [PMID: 43355 DOI: 10.1099/00221287-115-2-343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The results of serological studies on six strains of Micropolyspora faeni from hay, sputum and plant debris, and five strains of Mip. rectivirgula from soil indicated no significant differences between the two species. Antisera raised in rabbits against purified antigens of the type strains were used to compare the 11 strains by immunoelectrophoresis. The detailed antigenic composition of the type strains was also determined by two-dimensional immunoelectrophoresis against specific rabbit antisera and pooled serum samples from patients suffering from farmer's lung. Cross-reacting antigens were identified by intermediate gel immunoelectrophoresis. The close similarity of the two species was confirmed by the results of 60 morphological physiological and biochemical tests applied to the 11 strains. We consider that the strains belong to a single species and propose that the specific epithet faeni be conserved for the taxon.
Collapse
|