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Biomedical subjects

F Anthony

Publications and source records attributed to F Anthony.

At least 19 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed2006

Antibiotic use and overuse for appendicectomy in Antigua and Barbuda.

The use of antibiotics for appendicectomy in Antigua and Barbuda, from January 1998 to December 1999, was examined with respect to current Surgical Infection Society guidelines from developed countries. There were 143 cases of appendicectomy performed at Holberton Hospital. The mean patient age and standard deviation (SD) was 28.1 +/- 15.8 years, 57% female. Pathology showed inflammed appendix only in 56%, peri-appendiceal abscess/perforation in 17%, "fibrosed" appendix in 10% and normal appendix in 17%. Postoperative infection (wound infection, fever > three days) was seen in 7/24 (29%) of cases with peri-appendiceal abscess/perforation and 2/119 (1.7%) of the other cases. A subset of 88 cases had antibiotic use reviewed: 3/88 (3.4%) were given no antibiotics, 7/88 (8%) were given one antibiotic, 5/88 (5.7%) were given two antibiotics, 72/88 (81.8%) were given three antibiotics and 1/88 (1.1%) was given four antibiotics. Parenteral antibiotics were given a mean and SD of 5.39 +/- 1.94 days followed by oral antibiotics in 18/88 (20.5%) cases. Those with appendiceal abscess/perforation were treated parenterally for mean and SD of 6.56 +/- 2.35 days, not significantly different from others. Most frequent antibiotics used were gentamicin, metronidazole and ampicillin/penicillin/cloxacillin/cephradine (81.8%). The Surgical Infection Society recommends starting prophylactic antibiotics before surgery, using appropriate spectrum agents for less than 24 hours if not contaminated and less than five days if infected. It may be possible to safely reduce antibiotic use for appendicectomy in Antigua and Barbuda.

Adolescent↗
PubMed2003

Impact of the Coffea canephora gene introgression on beverage quality of C. arabica.

Lines of Coffea arabica derived from the Timor Hybrid (hybrid between C. arabica and C. canephora) are resistant to coffee leaf rust (Hemileia vastatrix) and to the nematode Meloidogyne exigua. The introgression of C. canephora resistance genes is suspected of causing a drop in beverage quality. Coffee samples from pure lines, compared in a Trial 1, and from F1 hybrids and parental lines from a half-diallel trial in a Trial 2, were studied for beverage quality, chemical composition and amount of introgressed genetic material. Chemical analyses (caffeine, chlorogenic acids, fat, trigonelline, sucrose) were carried out with near-infrared spectrometry by reflectance of green coffee. The number of amplified fragment length polymorphic (AFLP) markers introgressed from the Timor Hybrid varied from 1 to 37 for the lines studied. There were significant differences between lines for all of the biochemical compounds analysed and for the acidity and the overall standard of the beverage. Two lines (T17927, T17924) were significantly poorer than the controls for sucrose and beverage acidity. T17924 also had more chlorogenic acids and was poorer for the overall standard. However, two highly introgressed lines, T17934 and T17931 (25 and 30 AFLP markers, respectively), did not differ from the non-introgressed controls. There were no correlations between the number of AFLP markers and the chemical contents or beverage attributes. Significant correlations were found between the performance of the parents and their general combining ability for beverage quality. It was concluded that it should be possible to find lines with both the desired resistance genes and good beverage quality. Selection can avoid accompanying the introgression of resistance genes with a drop in beverage quality.

Coffea↗
PubMed2001

Origin, diversity and evolution of NBS-type disease-resistance gene homologues in coffee trees (Coffea L.).

The majority of plant disease-resistance genes (R-genes) isolated so far encode a predicted nucleotide-binding site (NBS) domain. NBS domains related to R-genes show a highly conserved backbone of amino acid motifs, which makes it possible to isolate resistance gene analogues (RGAs) by PCR with degenerate primers. Multiple combinations of primers with low degeneracy, designed from two conserved motifs in the NBS regions of R-genes of various plants, were used on genomic DNA from coffee trees, an important perennial tropical crop. Nine distinct classes of RGAs of the NBS-like type, representing a highly diverse sample, were isolated from Coffea arabica and C. canephora species. The analysis of one coffee RGA family suggested point mutations as the primary source of diversity. With one exception, coffee RGA families appeared to be closely related in sequence to at least one cloned R-gene. In addition, deduced amino acid sequences of coffee RGAs were identified that showed strong sequence similarity to almost all known non-TIR (Toll/Interleukin 1 Receptor)-type R-genes. The high degree of similarity between particular coffee RGAs and R-genes isolated from other angiosperm species, such as Arabidopsis, tomato and rice, indicates an ancestral relationship and the existence of common ancestors. The data obtained from coffee species suggests that the evolution of NBS-encoding sequences involves the gradual accumulation of mutations and slow rates of divergence within distinct R-gene families, rather than being a rapid process. Functional inferences drawn from the suggested pattern of evolution of NBS-type R-genes is also discussed.

Amino Acid Sequence↗
PubMed2001

Maternal plasma vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in normal and hypertensive pregnancies and their relationship to peripheral vascular resistance.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to measure maternal plasma vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations during normal and hypertensive pregnancies and examine their relationship with maternal total peripheral resistance values. STUDY DESIGN: Plasma concentrations of total immunoreactive vascular endothelial growth factor and total peripheral resistances were measured serially throughout pregnancy in 20 women with preeclampsia, 24 women with gestational hypertension, and 26 normotensive control women. One-way analysis of variance and a regression model were used to analyze the vascular endothelial growth factor levels in the groups and the relationship between vascular endothelial growth factor concentration and total peripheral resistance. RESULTS: At 10 to 14 weeks' gestation plasma vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in all subjects were 4 to 5 times greater than the levels measured post partum (P <.0001). Mean vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations were similar in the control and gestational hypertension groups; in both groups levels remained stable until 34 to 36 weeks' gestation, when levels increased a further 1.3-fold (P <.01). In comparison, vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations in subjects in the preeclampsia group were greater at 28 to 32 weeks' gestation (P =.002) and at 34 to 36 weeks' gestation (P <.001). Vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations were also increased during the 4 weeks that preceded the diagnosis of preeclampsia (P <.05). Vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations were associated with the elevated total peripheral resistance observed during the clinical disorder in the preeclampsia group but not in the other groups. CONCLUSION: Maternal plasma vascular endothelial growth factor concentrations increased before the clinical onset of preeclampsia and were further elevated during the vasoconstricted state observed in this disorder. We speculate that the hyperdynamic circulation that characterizes the latent phase of preeclampsia causes vascular shear stress, which in turn increases the levels of circulating vascular endothelial growth factor. Because vascular endothelial growth factor normally acts as a vasodilator, its increase may represent an unsuccessful vascular rescue response.

Adult↗
PubMed2001

Antimicrobial resistance: harmonisation of national antimicrobial resistance monitoring and surveillance programmes in animals and in animal-derived food.

A guideline on the harmonisation of national antimicrobial resistance monitoring and surveillance programmes in animals and animal-derived foods has been developed by the Ad hoc Group of experts on antimicrobial resistance of the Office International des Epizooties. The objective of the guideline is to allow the generation of comparable data from various national surveillance and monitoring systems in order to compare the situations in different regions or countries and to consolidate results at the national, regional and international level. Definitions of surveillance and monitoring are provided. National systems should be able to detect the emergence of resistance, and to determine the prevalence of resistant bacteria. The resulting data should be used in the assessment of risks to public health and should contribute to the establishment of a risk management policy. Specific factors identified for harmonisation include the animal species, food commodities, sampling plans, bacterial species, antimicrobials to be tested, laboratory methods, data reporting, database structure and the structure of reports.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

Antimicrobial resistance: standardisation and harmonisation of laboratory methodologies for the detection and quantification of antimicrobial resistance.

The Ad hoc Group of experts on antimicrobial resistance of the Office International des Epizooties has developed a guideline on the standardisation and harmonisation of laboratory methodologies used for the detection and quantification of antimicrobial resistance. The existing methods (disk diffusion [including concentration gradient strips], agar dilution and broth dilution) are reviewed, including a comparison of their advantages and disadvantages. The definitions of resistance characteristics of bacteria (susceptible, intermediate and resistant) are addressed and the criteria for the establishment of breakpoints are discussed. Due consideration has to be given to these aspects in the interpretation and comparison of resistance monitoring or surveillance data. The use of validated laboratory methods and the establishment of quality assurance (internal and external) for microbiological laboratory work and the reporting of quantitative test results is recommended. Equivalence of different methods and laboratory test results is also recommended to be established by external proficiency testing, which should be achieved by the means of a reference laboratory system. This approach allows the comparison of test results obtained using different methods generated by laboratories in different countries.

Animals↗
PubMed2001

Antimicrobial resistance: monitoring the quantities of antimicrobials used in animal husbandry.

This guideline, developed by the Office International des Epizooties for the monitoring of the quantities of antimicrobials used in animal husbandry, provides the methodology required to assess the amounts of antimicrobials used, to supply data to be used for risk analysis and to improve guidance on the appropriate use of antimicrobials. Information may be gathered from a number of sources, such as the competent authorities, industry and users. The usefulness of different types of information is discussed and recommendations are given on how to collect detailed information, each year, on the antimicrobial quantities used per class and active substance. Information should also be collected on the route of administration (oral and parenteral) and the animal species.

Animal Husbandry↗
PubMed2001

Antimicrobial resistance: responsible and prudent use of antimicrobial agents in veterinary medicine.

A guideline on the responsible and prudent use of antimicrobials in animal husbandry has been developed by the Ad hoc Group of experts on antimicrobial resistance, created by the Office International des Epizooties. The objectives of responsible use are to maintain antibiotic efficacy, to avoid the dissemination of resistant bacteria or resistance determinants and to avoid the exposure of humans to resistance through food. The guideline attributes a central role to the competent authorities responsible for granting marketing authorizations for antimicrobial substances. Requirements before and after granting of marketing authorizations are defined. Important aspects include the control of the pharmaceutical product quality and the therapeutic efficacy, the assessment of the selection pressure, the protection of the environment, specific and non-specific antimicrobial resistance surveillance. The guideline is also addressed to the veterinary pharmaceutical industry, veterinary practitioners, dispensing pharmacists and farmers. The respective roles and responsibilities of these groups are defined.

Animal Husbandry↗
PubMed2001

Antimicrobial resistance: risk analysis methodology for the potential impact on public health of antimicrobial resistant bacteria of animal origin.

The Ad hoc Group of experts on antimicrobial resistance, appointed by the Office International des Epizooties, has developed an objective, transparent and defensible risk analysis process, providing a valid basis for risk management decisions in respect to antimicrobial resistance. The components of risk analysis and of different possible approaches in risk assessment (qualitative, semiquantitative and quantitative) are defined. The Ad hoc Group recommended the following: an independent risk assessment based on scientific data; an iterative risk analysis process; a qualitative risk assessment systematically undertaken before considering a quantitative approach; the establishment of a risk assessment policy; and the availability of technical assistance for developing countries.

Animals↗
PubMed2000

Head injury, dissociation and the Ganser syndrome.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical characteristics and psychiatric correlates of the Ganser syndrome following mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). METHOD: A retrospective chart review of patients with mild TBI assessed in a tertiary care outpatient clinic. RESULTS: Of 513 patients reviewed in a 1 year period, four subjects with a diagnosis of Ganser syndrome, with the hallmark syndrome of approximate answers ('vorbeigehen') were identified. In three of these patients, symptoms of Acute Stress Disorder (ASD) and/or Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) were found. Only one patient was pursuing litigation. CONCLUSIONS: While no epidemiologic conclusions can be drawn from the data, clinicians should, nevertheless, be alert to the possibility of patients presenting with Ganser syndrome following TBI. The findings are discussed in the light of data linking the syndrome to dissociative and post-traumatic stress related disorders.

Adult↗
PubMed1999

Molecular characterisation and origin of the Coffea arabica L. genome.

Restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) markers were used in combination with genomic in situ hybridisation (GISH) to investigate the origin of the allotetraploid species Coffea arabica (2n = 44). By comparing the RFLP patterns of potential diploid progenitor species with those of C. arabica, the sources of the two sets of chromosomes, or genomes, combined in C. arabica were identified. The genome organisation of C. arabica was confirmed by GISH using simultaneously labelled total genomic DNA from the two putative genome donor species as probes. These results clearly suggest that C. arabica is an amphidiploid formed by hybridisation between C. eugenioides and C. canephora, or ecotypes related to these diploid species. Our results also indicate low divergence between the two constituent genomes of C. arabica and those of its progenitor species, suggesting that the speciation of C. arabica took place relatively recently. Precise localisation in Central Africa of the site of the speciation of C. arabica, based on the present distribution of the coffee species, appears difficult, since the constitution and extent of tropical forest has varied considerably during the late Quaternary period.

Alleles↗
PubMed1998

Phylogenetic analysis of chloroplast DNA variation in Coffea L.

The trnL-trnF intergenic spacer of cpDNA has been sequenced from 38 tree samples representing 23 Coffea taxa and the related genus Psilanthus. These sequences were used for phylogenetic reconstruction using parsimony analyses. The results suggest a radial mode of speciation and a recent origin in Africa for the genus Coffea. Phylogenetic relationships inferred from the cpDNA analysis suggest several major clades, which present a strong geographical correspondence (i.e., west Africa, central Africa, east Africa, and Madagascar). The overall results agree well with the phylogeny previously inferred from nuclear genome data. However, several inconsistencies are observed among taxa endemic to west Africa, suggesting the occurrence of introgressive hybridization. Evidence is also obtained for the genetic origin of the allotetraploid species C. arabica.

Base Sequence↗
PubMed1997

Maternal serum vascular endothelial growth factor during early pregnancy.

1. The objectives of the study were: (i) to investigate the serum concentrations of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in pregnant and non-pregnant women; and (ii) to study the relationship between the levels of maternal serum VEGF and the serum concentrations of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) and progesterone during the first trimester. 2. Total immunoreactive VEGF was measured by competitive RIA using recombinant human VEGF165 and a polyclonal antiserum. Serum VEGF was measured in 60 non-pregnant women of childbearing age. These data were compared with serum VEGF measured in 363 women between 41 and 91 days of gestation. 3. The median serum VEGF concentration was 1.10 micrograms/l (interquartile range 0.91-1.30) in the nonpregnant women and 2.13 micrograms/l (interquartile range 1.62-2.77) in the pregnant women. Serum levels of VEGF were significantly higher among the pregnant cohort (P < 0.0001). Serum VEGF concentration was positively correlated with gestational age, increasing until ten completed weeks of pregnancy. Serum VEGF was negatively correlated with maternal height and weight, and positively correlated with serum hCG and serum progesterone (P < or = 0.0001 in all cases). Serum VEGF was lower in the pregnant women who smoked (P = 0.06). 4. Our data show a positive and highly significant correlation between maternal serum levels of VEGF and hormones reflecting placental function (hCG, progesterone). We speculate that VEGF production is increased by progesterone and hCG, and that VEGF has a positive influence on trophoblast development. VEGF may also be involved in the initiation of the maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy.

Adult↗
PubMed1995

Relationships between the uterine environment and maternal plasma concentrations of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 and placental protein 14 in early pregnancy.

Blood was obtained from 218 women between 6 and 13 weeks of gestation. Measurements of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) and placental protein 14 (PP14) concentrations were compared with maternal weight and height, maternal smoking habit, indices of maternal haematological status and two placental hormones [human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) and human placental lactogen (HPL)]. IGFBP-1 concentration was negatively correlated with maternal weight (P < 0.001) and body mass index (P < 0.001); PP14 concentration was not correlated with these measurements. PP14 concentration was negatively correlated with maternal haemoglobin concentration (P = 0.010), mean corpuscular volume (P = 0.003) and serum ferritin concentration (P = 0.016). The concentrations of PP14 were significantly less among smokers (P < 0.001); IGFBP-1 concentrations were uninfluenced by smoking. IGFBP-1 concentration was positively correlated with maternal serum HCG (P = 0.003) and maternal serum HPL (P = 0.002). PP14 concentration was positively correlated with maternal serum HCG (P < 0.0001) but not with HPL. These findings demonstrate that the maternal environment has an early influence on both endometrial and placental function.

Body Mass Index↗
PubMed1994

Relation between maternal haemoglobin and placental hormone concentrations in early pregnancy.

Environmental factors that influence placental development are of particular interest because of the reported association between adult hypertension, low birthweight, and large placental size. Maternal anaemia is one environmental factor that is associated with an increase in placental size at birth. We have examined the relation between haematological status and plasma concentrations of chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and placental lactogen (hPL) in 175 women at about 10 weeks of pregnancy. There were significant negative correlations between maternal haemoglobin concentration and the levels of hCG (p = 0.03) and hPL (p = 0.02). Although 21% of women had low iron stores (ferritin < 13 micrograms/L), no relation was found between serum ferritin and the two placental hormones. There was no association between plasma volume (calculated from maternal weight and height) and hCG or hPL concentrations. We conclude that our observations reflect an influence of the maternal environment on the placenta. The fact that negative correlations with placental hormone concentrations exist across the normal haemoglobin range suggest that they reflect a normal aspect of placental development. We speculate that placental growth is, in part, determined by maternal factors that prevail before conception. One possibility is that these factors modify angiogenesis within the trophoblastic villi.

Adolescent↗