PubMed Health⌕ Search

Biomedical subjects

M Cooper

Publications and source records attributed to M Cooper.

At least 127 records · Page 7Linked to original sources
PubMed1997

Visual speech aids: a British survey of use and evaluation by speech and language therapists.

One hundred and eighty speech and language therapists throughout the UK completed a postal questionnaire which asked for ratings of visual speech aids (VSAs) on a number of dimensions together with information regarding frequency of use of such aids, comments on the range of applicability of each type of aid and other demographic data relating to the diversity of client groups covered in case loads. The results (using analysis of variance) revealed a main effect of VSA type. There was also a main effect of question type; all VSAs scored poorly on some dimensions as compared with others. Furthermore there was a significant interaction between type of VSA and dimension type. This suggests that VSAs not only tend to be built for particular client groups, but that the makers tend to focus on some specific design criteria to the detriment of others. These results are discussed with respect to the future design of VSAs, and with respect to their testing and future evaluation.

Analysis of Variance↗
PubMed1997

Specialist speech and language therapists' use and evaluation of visual speech aids.

Sixty speech and language therapy service managers and 233 specialist speech and language therapists (SLTs) throughout the UK completed a postal questionnaire which asked for caseload data, patterns of use of visual speech aids (VSAs) and ratings of VSAs on a number of dimensions (in a follow-up to the survey carried out by Coventry, Clibbens, Cooper and Rood, 1997). Information was also elicited about frequency of use of VSAs together with comments relating to the range of applicability of each type of aid. The results revealed that no VSA scored better than average ratings and, in particular, 'Portability' and 'Affordability' scored lowest overall. In addition, no differences were found in ratings of particular VSAs between specialist types. The caseload data reported also confirmed the need to take baserate into account when purchasing and designing VSAs.

Adult↗
PubMed1997

Primary immunodeficiency diseases at Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the spectrum of primary immunodeficiency diseases (PIDs) diagnosed at Red Cross War Memorial Children's Hospital. DESIGN: Retrospective, descriptive study. SETTING: Tertiary, referral hospital. PATIENTS: All patients investigated by the immunology service because of suspected PIDs, between January 1983 and December 1996. METHODS: Review of immunology service database and hospital case records. RESULTS: During the 14-year review period, 515 patients were investigated, a mean of 36.8 new patients per annum. Ninety-three patients with PIDs were diagnosed, a mean of 6.6 new patients per annum. The spectrum of PIDs was similar to that reported in developed countries. As in other series, antibody deficiencies predominated, accounting for 56% (52/93) of diagnoses. The male/female ratio was 1.5:1; 73% (62/85) came from the Western Cape, the remaining 27% (23/85) resided in five other provinces. Eighty per cent (70/87) presented with recurrent or atypical infection, with or without failure to thrive. Sinopulmonary infections (80%), diarrhoeal disease (19%) and candidiasis (18%) were the most common preceding infections. By the age of 5 years, only 60% had been diagnosed, compared with about 80% in developed countries. During the study period, 20% (19/93) were known to have died. CONCLUSIONS: The results show a pattern of PIDs incidence similar to that in developed countries. Diagnosis was delayed in many patients, which probably contributed to morbidity. To facilitate earlier diagnosis and to improve outcome, children should be considered for an immunological assessment if they exhibit increased susceptibility to infection.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1996

Synthesis and characterization of 4-iodophenylboronic acid: a new enhancer for the horseradish peroxidase-catalyzed chemiluminescent oxidation of luminol.

4-Iodophenylboronic acid has been synthesized and shown to be a potent enhancer of the chemiluminescent horseradish peroxidase (Type VI-A)-catalyzed oxidation of luminol and isoluminol. The enhancer was effective (>100-fold enhancement) in the concentration range 10-1500 microM. Light emission in the presence of the enhancer peaked at 5-10 min after initiation of the reaction and then decayed very slowly. 4-Iodophenylboronic acid also enhanced reactions catalyzed by horseradish peroxidase Type IX. The detection limit for Type VI-A horseradish peroxidase was 509 amol, and optimum signal enhancement was obtained at 769 microM compared to 154 microM for 4-iodophenol under the same conditions.

Blotting, Western↗
PubMed1996

The Candida albicans PKC1 gene encodes a protein kinase C homolog necessary for cellular integrity but not dimorphism.

Using a DNA fragment derived from the Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein kinase C gene (PKC1) as a probe to screen an ordered array library of genomic DNA from the dimorphic pathogenic fungus Candida albicans, the C. albicans PKC1 gene (CaPKC1) was isolated. The CaPKC1 gene is predicted to encode a protein of 1079 amino acids with 51% sequence identity over the entire length with the S. cerevisiae Pkc1 protein and is capable of functionally complementing the growth defects of a S. cerevisiae pkc1 delta mutant strain on hypo-osmotic medium. Deletion of both endogenous copies of the CaPKC1 gene in diploid C. albicans cells resulted in an osmotically remedial cell lysis defect of both the budding and the hyphal growth form and morphologically aberrant cells of the budding form. Despite these abnormalities, the transition between the two growth forms of C. albicans occurred normally in pkc1/pkc1 double disruptants. Capkc1p was modified at its C-terminus with two repeats of the Staphylococcus aureus protein A IgG-binding fragment (ZZ-sequence tag) and partially purified by chromatography on DEAE-Sepharose and IgG-Sepharose. In vitro, Capkc1p preferably phosphorylated the S. cerevisiae Pkc1p pseudosubstrate peptide and myelin basic protein, but not histones, protamine or dephosphorylated casein, and failed to respond to cofactors known to activate several mammalian PKC isozymes.

Amino Acid Sequence↗
PubMed1996

18F-desmethoxyfallypride: a fluorine-18 labeled radiotracer with properties similar to carbon-11 raclopride for PET imaging studies of dopamine D2 receptors.

We have developed (S)-N-[(1-allyl-2-pyrrolidinyl)methyl]-5-(3-18F-fluoropropyl)-2- methoxybenzamide (18F-desmethoxyfallypride) as a fluorine-18 radiotracer with properties analogous to that of 11C-raclopride. In vitro experiments in rat brain homogenates showed an association rate constant of 2.16 x 10(8) M(-1)min(-1) and a dissociation rate constant of 0.073 min(-1). High striatal uptake (up to 0.08% injected dose/cc) of 18F-desmethoxyfallypride in rhesus monkeys was observed in PET experiments. The radiotracer cleared from the striata with a dissociation rate of 1.80 x 10(-2) min(-1). Striatum to cerebellum ratios peaked at 3.0 in 30 min after which they decreased steadily. Intravenously administered haloperidol displaced specifically bound 18F-desmethoxyfallypride with a koff of 0.058 min(-1). Synaptic dopamine released by the treatment of the monkeys with d-amphetamine increased the dissociation rate of 18F-desmethoxyfallypride to 0.83 min(-1) thus reducing specifically bound 18F-desmethoxyfallypride by 56% over a period of 42 mins compared to a reduction of only 20% in controls during this time period. The sensitivity of 18F-desmethoxyfallypride towards competition with dopamine should make this radiotracer useful in PET studies to evaluate in vivo pharmacological effects of various agents that alter levels of endogenous dopamine.

Animals↗
PubMed1996

Implications of the emerging home systems technologies for rehabilitation.

This paper gives a review of the current and anticipated developments in Integrated Home Systems and raises the implications these have in the field of rehabilitation. Firstly, the systems under consideration are defined and their development world-wide outlined. An overview of the European Home Systems Specification is given. The implications of this technology for rehabilitation are then raised considering: environmental control in the home; how people with degenerative conditions may be more readily able to remain in their homes as condition progresses; and remote health monitoring. The expectation that the initial impact will be in the area of environment control is stated, and a closer look at this field is made comparing current with anticipated systems. An outline is given of the TIDE Project HS-ADEPT (Home Systems--Access for Disabled and Elderly People to this Technology). The key findings of the survey of users made at the outset of the project, relevant to this paper, are given. The ongoing work of the project is described in brief. The continuing developments in Integrated Home Systems and in particular the issue of standards are noted. Concluding comments are offered in the hope of stimulating the necessary interdisciplinary discussion if this technology is to realize its full potential in the field of rehabilitation.

Electronics, Medical↗
PubMed1996

Surgical management of brachioaxillary-subclavian vein occlusion.

OBJECTIVE: The possibility of using RING PTFE graft as venous bypass to preserve arteriovenous graft function and reduce upper extremity swelling. METHODS: Twenty-two patients with stenosis/occlusion of the brachial-axillary-subclavian vein segment in haemodialysis patients (n = 19) and patients with penetration injury (n = 3) who were not candidates for balloon angioplasty were treated with ring PTFE venous bypass in renal patients and jugular to axillary vein transposition for trauma patients and followed for 10-87 months (mean 31) using venography, Doppler analysis and Duplex scanning. RESULTS: There was no death or neurologic deficit resulting from the venous bypass. Resolution of swelling occurred in 8-48 h. 19/22 (86%) of the bypasses and 3/3 transpositions remained patent after a mean follow-up of 31 months (10-87) months. The attrition was due to AV graft occlusion (n = 2) and infection requiring graft removal (n = 1). CONCLUSIONS: Ring PTFE graft is an acceptable venous bypass for brachial-axillary-subclavian stenosis/occlusion to reduce arm swelling and preserve the function of AV grafts in patients with lesions not amendable with balloon angioplasty or thrombolytic therapy. Jugular-axillary transposition is inappropriate for renal patients.

Adult↗
PubMed1996

Obsessive-compulsive disorder: effects on family members.

A study of 225 family members of individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder explored the greatest concerns of family members, examining the extent to which they found different kinds of OCD-linked behavior disturbing, and various resources helpful. Services to enhance family functioning are discussed.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1996

Predictors of the progression of renal insufficiency in patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and overt diabetic nephropathy. The Collaborative Study Group.

We designed a prospective, double-blind controlled trial to determine predictors of loss of renal function in patients with insulin dependent diabetes and established nephropathy. A total of 409 insulin-dependent diabetic patients with established nephropathy enrolled in a trial on the effect of Captopril on the rate of progression of renal disease. Baseline demographic, clinical (history and physical) and laboratory parameters were analyzed as risk factors for time to progression. Dichotomous characteristics were compared by Fisher's exact test and continuous characteristics with the Wilcoxon rank-sum test. Univariate proportional hazards regression analysis was used to estimate relative risk of nephropathy progression, and bivariate proportional hazard regression to identify interactions with the treatment group assignment. Multivariate proportional hazard regression was employed to determine which characteristics were independent risk factors. We found that a number of demographic and clinical characteristics were significantly associated with nephropathy progression even after adjustment for treatment group. However, after multivariate analysis, the risk factors that independently predicted progression were onset of IDDM later in life, parental diagnosis of IDDM, the presence of edema, increased mean arterial pressure, and an abnormal electrocardiogram. Likewise, a number of laboratory characteristics were also predictive of nephropathy progression. A low hematocrit, high blood sugar, and higher protein excretion predicted nephropathy progression as did a higher serum creatinine, particularly in the face of a normal serum albumin. In conclusion, this study identifies a number of clinical and laboratory risk factors that can predict which patients with insulin-dependent diabetes with established nephropathy are more likely to sustain a clinically important decrease in renal function over a median follow-up of three years.

Adolescent↗
PubMed1996

Growth of short children during and after discontinuation of growth hormone therapy.

We have attempted to evaluate the relationship between spontaneous growth hormone (GH) secretion and the response to GH therapy as well as the effect of discontinuation of GH therapy on further growth. The 24-h integrated concentration of GH (ICGH) was determined in 150 short children (< 2 SD for age) with a GH response to clonidine stimulation of more than 10 mcg/L. The patients were treated with GH for 4 yr and were observed for 1 yr following cessation of GH treatment. Twenty-two out of 52 patients who had an ICGH of less than 3.2 mcg/L (group LICGH) and 28 out of 60 patients who had an ICGH of more than 3.2 mcg/L (group NICGH) were followed without GH therapy. Only patients who remained prepubertal throughout the study were included in the analysis. The growth response of the LICGH to GH was better than that of the NICGH children. Patients regained normal growth velocity 6-12 months after discontinuation of GH therapy. Three children of the LICGH subsequently developed classic GH deficiency. These studies demonstrate that short-term GH therapy can improve the growth channel. Children with a low ICGH grow better on GH than children with a normal ICGH. Children with a low ICGH need continued observation and retesting when growth velocity is low.

Body Height↗
PubMed1996

Disposition and bioavailability of ceftazidime after intraperitoneal administration in patients receiving continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis.

This study investigated the disposition and bioavailability of ceftazidime when it was given intraperitoneally. Seven patients were given 1 gm of ceftazidime intravenously, and 1 wk later, the same dose was given intraperitoneally. After both intravenous and intraperitoneal dosing, serum and peritoneal dialysate samples were obtained at set time intervals over a 24-h period. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to determine the ceftazidime concentrations in the serum and dialysate samples. Inspection of the concentration versus time data after intraperitoneal dosing demonstrated that serum ceftazidime concentrations reached therapeutic (> 8 micrograms/mL) levels within 30 min and remained in the therapeutic range for the entire 24-h period. Simulation of a variety of ceftazidime dosing regimens using the mean pharmacokinetic parameters from this population of patients suggests that a regimen of 1.5 gm administered intraperitoneally every 24 h produces trough serum drug concentrations (approximately 40 micrograms/mL) similar to those achieved with a standard regimen of 1.0 gm given intravenously every 24 h in patients undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis. It was concluded that the intraperitoneal dosing of ceftazidime in these patients is an equally effective and a more convenient alternative to its administration.

Aged↗
PubMed1996

Organ specificity of antihypertensive therapy on ocular albumin vascular clearance and albuminuria in the hypertensive diabetic rat.

PURPOSE: The contributions of hypertension and diabetes to microvascular dysfunction in the kidney and eye were investigated. Two indices of microvascular dysfunction, urinary albumin excretion rate (AER) and albumin vascular clearance (AVC) in the eye, were studied in control and streptozocin diabetic Wistar Kyoto (WKY) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR). METHODS: Studies were performed on four groups of untreated rats--nondiabetic and diabetic WKY and nondiabetic and diabetic SHR--and on three groups of diabetic SHR treated with a converting enzyme inhibitor (perindopril), a calcium-channel blocker (lacidipine), or triple therapy (hydrochlorothiazide, reserpine, and hydralazine). In all rats, AER and AVC were measured at 16 weeks. RESULTS: There was a progressive increase in both parameters in the order WKY, diabetic WKY, SHR, and diabetic SHR. When compared with nondiabetic WKY, diabetic SHR showed an approximately 30-fold increase in AER and an approximately threefold increase in AVC. Treatment of diabetic SHR with perindopril or triple therapy normalized AER compared to an equihypotensive dose of lacidipine, which had no effect. By contrast, the three antihypertensive regimens showed a different order of efficacy in preventing increases in ocular AVC. In diabetic SHR, the increase in retinal AVC was prevented largely by lacidipine, whereas the other two antihypertensive regimens showed lesser effects [AVC expressed as percentage nondiabetic WKY: untreated diabetic SHR 278% +/- 47%, lacidipine 93% +/- 10% (P < 0.001), triple therapy 132% +/- 37% (P < 0.05), and perindopril 167% +/- 9% (P < 0.05)]. Lacidipine also prevented the increase in AVC of the anterior and posterior uvea. By contrast, increases in AVC observed in the diabetic SHR were not prevented by perindopril in the posterior uvea or by triple therapy in the anterior uvea. Thus, hypertension and diabetes increased ocular AVC and AER, and effective antihypertensive therapy substantially prevented changes in both parameters. However, despite equivalent levels of blood pressure control for each regimen, discordant effects were noted on AVC and AER. Perindopril was associated with significantly lower AER than lacidipine, whereas lacidipine was more potent in preventing increases in ocular AVC. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study suggest that different antihypertensive regimens in the diabetic rat may exert organ-specific effects on the retina and kidney despite equivalent effects on systemic blood pressure. These data also raise the possibility that retinal microvascular dysfunction in diabetes is ameliorated more readily by calcium-channel blockade than by converting-enzyme inhibition, whereas the reverse applies to renal microvascular dysfunction, as reflected by albuminuria.

Albuminuria↗
PubMed1996

Cardiovascular-radical outcome method is effective in complex congenital cardiac lesions.

BACKGROUND: The cardiovascular-radical outcome method is a proactive process of patient care that uses standard critical pathway methodology to reduce negative variation while encouraging positive variation to accelerate recovery. Its effectiveness in patients with complex congenital heart disease is explored. METHODS: Two hundred fourteen consecutive patients with congenital heart disease were cared for using the cardiovascular radical outcome method. Age ranged from 2 days to 19 years (median age, 3 years). Cardiovascular radical outcome method data were compared with the pathway plan data for each patient. RESULTS: Survival was 99% (211 patients) with an overall reduction in stay of 156 days (0.74 day/patient) (p < 0.0001). Only 10 patients (5%) exceeded the pathway plan; 201 (95%) reached the planned length of stay (critical pathway method), and 127 patients (60%) had a shorter length of stay than expected by the critical pathway method. One hundred forty-eight patients (70%), including 95 (64%) with more complex conditions, had a length of stay of 3 days and 18% achieved a 2-day length of stay, the maximal response. The process was most effective in the most complex groups, although preoperative comorbidities influenced outcomes. Outcome assessment demonstrated minimal morbidity and excellent family satisfaction. CONCLUSIONS: The radical outcome method is effective in reducing the length of stay of patients with complex congenital heart disease. The power is in the process rather than the plan, and the method provides optimal patient care and family satisfaction.

Adolescent↗