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Williams RJ, Brintz BJ, Ribeiro Dos Santos G, Huang AT, Buddhari D, Kaewhiran S, Iamsirithaworn S, Rothman AL, Thomas S, Farmer A, Fernandez S, Cummings DAT, Anderson KB, Salje H, Leung DT. Integration of population-level data sources into an individual-level clinical prediction model for dengue virus test positivity. Sci Adv 2024; 10:eadj9786. [PMID: 38363842 PMCID: PMC10871531 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adj9786] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
The differentiation of dengue virus (DENV) infection, a major cause of acute febrile illness in tropical regions, from other etiologies, may help prioritize laboratory testing and limit the inappropriate use of antibiotics. While traditional clinical prediction models focus on individual patient-level parameters, we hypothesize that for infectious diseases, population-level data sources may improve predictive ability. To create a clinical prediction model that integrates patient-extrinsic data for identifying DENV among febrile patients presenting to a hospital in Thailand, we fit random forest classifiers combining clinical data with climate and population-level epidemiologic data. In cross-validation, compared to a parsimonious model with the top clinical predictors, a model with the addition of climate data, reconstructed susceptibility estimates, force of infection estimates, and a recent case clustering metric significantly improved model performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Ben J. Brintz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | | | - Angkana T. Huang
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Darunee Buddhari
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Alan L. Rothman
- Institute for Immunology and Informatics and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Stephen Thomas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Aaron Farmer
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Stefan Fernandez
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Derek A. T. Cummings
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kathryn B. Anderson
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY, USA
| | - Henrik Salje
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Daniel T. Leung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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Snaychuk LA, Ashley AM, McGrath DS, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Kim HS. Demographic, gambling, and psychological characteristics of sports bettors in a stratified sample of adults who gamble regularly. Psychol Addict Behav 2023; 37:1089-1100. [PMID: 38108803 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000971] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sports betting accounts for the greatest proportion of online gambling behavior globally and has been linked to various harms. Few studies have examined the average sports bettor profile using stratified samples of adults who gamble regularly. The present study builds upon existing research on the demographic variables of sports bettors and provides an in-depth examination of the clinical and gambling-related factors associated with sports betting. METHOD Participants (N = 10,039; 53.6% female) consisted of a stratified sample of Canadian adults who endorsed participating in gambling at least once per month in the past year. Participants completed standardized measures assessing demographics, gambling behavior, problem gambling severity, gambling-related harms, gambling motives, and psychological characteristics (e.g., substance use, mental health). RESULTS About 1,816 participants (18.1%) reported engaging in sports betting in the past year. Sports bettors tended to be younger, male, and employed full-time compared to nonsports bettors. Sports bettors endorsed different patterns of clinical comorbidities and greater substance use. Sports betting was also associated with unique gambling motives and greater time and money spent on gambling. Among participants who endorsed problem gambling, sports betting was associated with greater impulsivity and likelihood of using illicit substances while gambling. CONCLUSIONS The results highlight the characteristics of individuals who bet on sports, as well as the characteristics of sports bettors with problem gambling which may help to inform the development of targeted prevention and intervention efforts to mitigate the potential harms of sports betting. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Hyoun S Kim
- Department of Psychology, Toronto Metropolitan University
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3
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Siddiqui A, Faraoni D, Williams RJ, Eytan D, Levin D, Mazwi M, Ng VL, Sayed BA, Laussen P, Steinberg BE. Development and validation of a multivariable prediction model in pediatric liver transplant patients for predicting intensive care unit length of stay. Paediatr Anaesth 2023; 33:938-945. [PMID: 37555370 DOI: 10.1111/pan.14736] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 08/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation is the life-saving treatment for many end-stage pediatric liver diseases. The perioperative course, including surgical and anesthetic factors, have an important influence on the trajectory of this high-risk population. Given the complexity and variability of the immediate postoperative course, there would be utility in identifying risk factors that allow prediction of adverse outcomes and intensive care unit trajectories. AIMS The aim of this study was to develop and validate a risk prediction model of prolonged intensive care unit length of stay in the pediatric liver transplant population. METHODS This is a retrospective analysis of consecutive pediatric isolated liver transplant recipients at a single institution between April 1, 2013 and April 30, 2020. All patients under the age of 18 years receiving a liver transplant were included in the study (n = 186). The primary outcome was intensive care unit length of stay greater than 7 days. RESULTS Recipient and donor characteristics were used to develop a multivariable logistic regression model. A total of 186 patients were included in the study. Using multivariable logistic regression, we found that age < 12 months (odds ratio 4.02, 95% confidence interval 1.20-13.51, p = .024), metabolic or cholestatic disease (odds ratio 2.66, 95% confidence interval 1.01-7.07, p = .049), 30-day pretransplant hospital admission (odds ratio 8.59, 95% confidence interval 2.27-32.54, p = .002), intraoperative red blood cells transfusion >40 mL/kg (odds ratio 3.32, 95% confidence interval 1.12-9.81, p = .030), posttransplant return to the operating room (odds ratio 11.45, 95% confidence interval 3.04-43.16, p = .004), and major postoperative respiratory event (odds ratio 32.14, 95% confidence interval 3.00-343.90, p < .001) were associated with prolonged intensive care unit length of stay. The model demonstrates a good discriminative ability with an area under the receiver operative curve of 0.888 (95% confidence interval, 0.824-0.951). CONCLUSIONS We develop and validate a model to predict prolonged intensive care unit length of stay in pediatric liver transplant patients using risk factors from all phases of the perioperative period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asad Siddiqui
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - David Faraoni
- Arthur S. Keats Division of Pediatric Cardiovascular Anesthesia, Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Texas Children's Hospital, Houston, Texas, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - R J Williams
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Danny Eytan
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Rambam Medical Centre, Haifa, Israel
| | - David Levin
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mjaye Mazwi
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Vicky L Ng
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Blayne A Sayed
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Peter Laussen
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, USA
| | - Benjamin E Steinberg
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- University of Toronto, Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Allami Y, Williams RJ, Hodgins DC, Stevens R, Shaw CA, El-Guebaly N, Christensen DR, McGrath DS, Belanger YD. Predictors of problem gambling remission in adults: A Canadian longitudinal study. Psychol Addict Behav 2023:2024-16867-001. [PMID: 37843520 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Remission from problem gambling (PG) continues to be a priority of clinicians and researchers. Data from cross-sectional studies indicate that some correlates are more predictive of PG, and existing longitudinal studies have exclusively examined risk factors that predict emergence of PG. This study's objective is to fill in the remaining pieces of the puzzle by identifying factors that might facilitate remission from PG. METHOD A stratified sample of 10,199 Canadian adult gamblers were recruited from an online panel. Respondents who screened positively for PG at baseline and completed a follow-up assessment 1 year later (n = 468) were assessed on a series of modifiable gambling, psychosocial, mental health, and substance use variables. A forward stepwise logistic regression was conducted to identify the strongest predictors of remission from PG at follow-up. A Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression was also conducted to confirm the most relevant predictors. RESULTS Out of 75 candidate variables, 10 were retained by the regression model. Two were related to cessation of specific gambling activities, two were related to gambling motivations, two were psychosocial in nature, two were related to substance use while gambling, and one was related to remission from a mental health disorder. The final and strongest predictor was PG severity at baseline. CONCLUSIONS Although PG remission predictors were mostly gambling-related, psychosocial aspects may also be targeted by stakeholders aiming to reduce PG. Ceasing to use tobacco while gambling and diversifying leisure activities may be promising targets. Other mental health and substance use predictors may still possibly be relevant, but only for a subset of people with PG. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).
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Williams RJ, Brintz BJ, Santos GRD, Huang A, Buddhari D, Kaewhiran S, Iamsirithaworn S, Rothman AL, Thomas S, Farmer A, Fernandez S, Cummings DAT, Anderson KB, Salje H, Leung DT. Integration of population-level data sources into an individual-level clinical prediction model for dengue virus test positivity. medRxiv 2023:2023.08.08.23293840. [PMID: 37609267 PMCID: PMC10441499 DOI: 10.1101/2023.08.08.23293840] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/24/2023]
Abstract
The differentiation of dengue virus (DENV) infection, a major cause of acute febrile illness in tropical regions, from other etiologies, may help prioritize laboratory testing and limit the inappropriate use of antibiotics. While traditional clinical prediction models focus on individual patient-level parameters, we hypothesize that for infectious diseases, population-level data sources may improve predictive ability. To create a clinical prediction model that integrates patient-extrinsic data for identifying DENV among febrile patients presenting to a hospital in Thailand, we fit random forest classifiers combining clinical data with climate and population-level epidemiologic data. In cross validation, compared to a parsimonious model with the top clinical predictors, a model with the addition of climate data, reconstructed susceptibility estimates, force of infection estimates, and a recent case clustering metric, significantly improved model performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- RJ Williams
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Ben J. Brintz
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | | | - Angkana Huang
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Darunee Buddhari
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | | | - Alan L. Rothman
- Institute for Immunology and Informatics and Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, University of Rhode Island, Providence, USA
| | - Stephen Thomas
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Aaron Farmer
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Stefan Fernandez
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Derek A T Cummings
- Department of Biology, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
- Emerging Pathogens Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, USA
| | - Kathryn B Anderson
- Department of Virology, Armed Forces Research Institute of Medical Sciences, Bangkok, Thailand
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, SUNY Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, USA
| | - Henrik Salje
- Department of Genetics, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel T. Leung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Division of Microbiology and Immunology, Department of Pathology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
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Gooding NB, Williams RJ. Are There Riskier Types of Gambling? J Gambl Stud 2023:10.1007/s10899-023-10231-0. [PMID: 37355524 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-023-10231-0] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2023]
Abstract
Gambling-related harm is a public health issue requiring market regulation and efforts aimed at prevention and treatment. An important consideration for the regulation of gambling is whether certain types of gambling are intrinsically more harmful than others. The present study was a comprehensive investigation of this issue in a nationwide sample of 10,199 Canadian adult gamblers that included 1346 individuals with problem gambling. We investigated (a) the univariate cross-sectional association between individual types of gambling and problem gambling; (b) the cross-sectional association between individual gambling types and problem gambling when controlling for breadth of gambling involvement; (c) the prospective/lagged relationship between participation in different gambling types and future problem gambling; and (d) the self-reports of people with gambling problems concerning the types and modalities they consider to be most problematic. Our collective results indicate that breadth of gambling involvement is a stronger predictor of gambling problems than involvement in any particular type, but that involvement in certain types (electronic gambling machines in particular, and casino table games and online gambling to a lesser extent) does confer additional risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolan B Gooding
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive W, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 3M4, Canada.
| | - Robert J Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive W, Lethbridge, AB, T1K 3M4, Canada
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8
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Mackey-Simpkin S, Williams RJ, Shaw CA, Russell GE. Prevalence and predictors of illegal gambling in Canada. International Gambling Studies 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2022.2149833] [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: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sean Mackey-Simpkin
- Department of Psychology, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | - Carrie A. Shaw
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar
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DiBattista JD, Shalders TC, Reader S, Hay A, Parkinson K, Williams RJ, Stuart-Smith J, McGrouther M. A comprehensive analysis of all known fishes from Sydney Harbour. Mar Pollut Bull 2022; 185:114239. [PMID: 36274563 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Revised: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 10/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Fishes represent an important natural resource and yet their diversity and function in dynamic estuaries with relatively high levels of human pressure such as Sydney Harbour have rarely been quantified. Further, Eastern Australia supports the survival and persistence of an increasing number of tropical species found within temperate estuaries owing to increasing average ocean temperatures. A re-valuation of the number of fish species known from Sydney Harbour is therefore needed. In this study, we generated an up-to-date and annotated checklist of fishes recorded from Sydney Harbour based on verified natural history records as well as newly available citizen science records based on opportunistic observations and structured surveys. We explored the spatial and temporal distribution of these records. In addition, we quantified the function, conservation status, and commercial importance of the identified fishes. The number of fish species recorded from Sydney Harbour now stands at 675, an increase of 89 species (15 %) when compared to the most recent evaluation in 2013. We attribute this increase in fish diversity over a relatively short time to the contribution of newer citizen science programs as well as the influx and survival of fishes in the Harbour with preferences for warmer waters. Some fish families were also overrepresented in the more urbanized and polluted sections of the Harbour. In forecasting further environmental impacts on the fishes of Sydney Harbour, we recommend increased integration of collaborative citizen science programs and natural history collections as a means to track these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph D DiBattista
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Tanika C Shalders
- National Marine Science Centre, Southern Cross University, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Australia
| | - Sally Reader
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Amanda Hay
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Kerryn Parkinson
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
| | - Robert J Williams
- New South Wales Department of Primary Industries - Fisheries, Australia
| | - Jemina Stuart-Smith
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Hobart 7001, Australia.
| | - Mark McGrouther
- Australian Museum Research Institute, Australian Museum, Sydney, NSW 2010, Australia.
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Christensen DR, Nicoll F, Williams RJ, Shaw CA, Belanger YD, El-Guebaly N, Hodgins DC, McGrath DS, Smith GJ, Stevens RMG. Harm Minimization Training, Knowledge, and Behaviour of Canadian Casino Employees. J Gambl Stud 2022:10.1007/s10899-022-10128-4. [PMID: 36445607 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10128-4] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2022] [Accepted: 04/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Casino employees regularly interact with problem and at-risk gamblers and thus have considerable potential to both prevent and reduce gambling-related harm. While harm minimization (HM) and responsible gambling (RG) are routinely espoused by the casino industry, the actual level of employee HM/RG training, knowledge, and behaviour is unknown. The present study investigated this issue in the Canadian context by examining employee surveys collected by the RG Check accreditation program (8,262 surveys from 78 Canadian casinos/racinos collected between 2011 and 2020). These surveys revealed that almost all casino employees receive HM/RG training, but the amount of training tends to be quite limited (one hour) except for supervisors, managers, and security personnel. Basic HM/RG knowledge among all employees appears adequate, although their understanding of probability is incomplete. The most important consideration is whether this training and knowledge translates into meaningful HM/RG behaviour towards patrons. The large majority of employees (83.1%) report engaging in at least one HM/RG interaction with a patron at some point during the course of their employment (median length of 4 to 9 years), with security personnel reporting the highest rates. However, the frequency, nature, and impact of these interactions is unknown.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fiona Nicoll
- Political Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | | | - Carrie A Shaw
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar, United Kingdom
| | - Yale D Belanger
- Political Science, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
| | | | | | | | - Garry J Smith
- Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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Coelho SG, Tabri N, Kerman N, Lefebvre T, Longpre S, Williams RJ, Kim HS. The Perceived Causes of Problems with Substance Use, Gambling, and Other Behavioural Addictions from the Perspective of People with Lived Experience: a Mixed-Methods Investigation. Int J Ment Health Addict 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/s11469-022-00900-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
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Williams RJ, Shaw CA, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, El-Guebaly N, Hodgins DC, McGrath DS, Stevens RMG. Etiology of problem gambling in Canada. Psychol Addict Behav 2022; 37:483-498. [PMID: 35787101 DOI: 10.1037/adb0000843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To conduct a large-scale national cohort study to identify the current etiological risk factors for problem gambling in Canada. METHOD A cohort of 10,119 Canadian gamblers completed a comprehensive self-administered online questionnaire in 2018 and were reassessed in 2019. At baseline, the sample contained 1,388 at-risk gamblers, 1,346 problem gamblers, and 2,710 with a major DSM-5 mental health disorder. A total of 108 independent variables (IVs) were available for analysis, as well as the self-report of perceived causes of gambling-related problems for 1,261 individuals. RESULTS The strongest multivariate predictors of current and future problem gambling were "gambling-related" variables (i.e., current and past problem gambling, intensive gambling involvement, playing electronic gambling machines (EGMs), gambling fallacies, socializing with other people having gambling-related problems, and family history of having gambling-related problems). Beyond gambling-related variables, greater impulsivity and lower household income were robustly predictive. Thirteen additional variables were either concurrently or prospectively predictive, but not both. In contrast to the many different quantitative predictors, self-reported causes tended to be singular and psychologically oriented (i.e., desire to win money, boredom, stress, poor self-control). CONCLUSIONS The predictors of problematic gambling in the present study are very similar to the predictors identified in prior international longitudinal and cross-sectional research. This implies core cross-cultural risk factors, with gambling-related variables and impulsivity being most important, and comorbidities and demographic variables having more modest contributions. The additional value of the present results is that they comprehensively identify the relative importance of all known etiologically relevant variables within a current Canadian context. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Pavlaki I, Shapiro M, Pisignano G, Jones SME, Telenius J, Muñoz-Descalzo S, Williams RJ, Hughes JR, Vance KW. Chromatin interaction maps identify Wnt responsive cis-regulatory elements coordinating Paupar-Pax6 expression in neuronal cells. PLoS Genet 2022; 18:e1010230. [PMID: 35709096 PMCID: PMC9202886 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1010230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system-expressed long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are often located in the genome close to protein coding genes involved in transcriptional control. Such lncRNA-protein coding gene pairs are frequently temporally and spatially co-expressed in the nervous system and are predicted to act together to regulate neuronal development and function. Although some of these lncRNAs also bind and modulate the activity of the encoded transcription factors, the regulatory mechanisms controlling co-expression of neighbouring lncRNA-protein coding genes remain unclear. Here, we used high resolution NG Capture-C to map the cis-regulatory interaction landscape of the key neuro-developmental Paupar-Pax6 lncRNA-mRNA locus. The results define chromatin architecture changes associated with high Paupar-Pax6 expression in neurons and identify both promoter selective as well as shared cis-regulatory-promoter interactions involved in regulating Paupar-Pax6 co-expression. We discovered that the TCF7L2 transcription factor, a regulator of chromatin architecture and major effector of the Wnt signalling pathway, binds to a subset of these candidate cis-regulatory elements to coordinate Paupar and Pax6 co-expression. We describe distinct roles for Paupar in Pax6 expression control and show that the Paupar DNA locus contains a TCF7L2 bound transcriptional silencer whilst the Paupar transcript can act as an activator of Pax6. Our work provides important insights into the chromatin interactions, signalling pathways and transcription factors controlling co-expression of adjacent lncRNAs and protein coding genes in the brain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioanna Pavlaki
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Shapiro
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- The Francis Crick Institute, London, United Kingdom
| | - Giuseppina Pisignano
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jelena Telenius
- MRC Molecular Haematology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Silvia Muñoz-Descalzo
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Instituto Universitario de Investigaciones Biomédicas y Sanitarias, Universidad Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Jim R. Hughes
- MRC Molecular Haematology Unit, Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Keith W. Vance
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Abstract
Parkinson's Disease (PD) is characterized by the accumulation of Lewy bodies in dopaminergic neurons. The main protein component of Lewy bodies, α-synuclein (αS), is also firmly linked to PD through the identification of a number of single point mutations that are autosomal dominant for early-onset disease. Consequently, the misfolding and subsequent aggregation of αS is thought to be a key stage in the development and progression of PD. Therefore, modulating the aggregation pathway of αS is an attractive therapeutic target. Owing to the fact that all but one of the familial mutations is located in the preNAC 45-54 region of αS, we previously designed a semi-rational library using this sequence as a design scaffold. The 45-54 peptide library was screened using a protein-fragment complementation assay approach, leading to the identification of the 4554W peptide. The peptide was subsequently found to be effective in inhibiting primary nucleation of αS, the earliest stage of the aggregation pathway. Here, we build upon this previous work by screening the same 45-54 library against five of the known αS single-point mutants that are associated with early-onset PD (A30P, E46K, H50Q, G51D, and A53T). These point mutations lead to a rapid acceleration of PD pathology by altering either the rate or type of aggregates formed. All ultimately lead to earlier disease onset and were therefore used to enforce increased assay stringency during the library screening process. The ultimate aim was to identify a peptide that is effective against not only the familial αS variant from which it has been selected but that is also effective against WT αS. Screening resulted in five peptides that shared common residues at some positions, while deviating at others. All reduced aggregation of the respective target, with several also identified to be effective at reducing aggregation when incubated with other variants. In addition, our results demonstrate that a previously optimized peptide, 4554W(N6A), is highly effective against not only WT αS but also several of the single-point mutant forms and hence is a suitable baseline for further work toward a PD therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn J. C. Watt
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Richard M. Meade
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Jody M. Mason
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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15
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Dawson JC, Munro A, Macleod K, Muir M, Timpson P, Williams RJ, Frame M, Brunton VG, Carragher NO. Pathway profiling of a novel SRC inhibitor, AZD0424, in combination with MEK inhibitors for cancer treatment. Mol Oncol 2022; 16:1072-1090. [PMID: 34856074 PMCID: PMC8895456 DOI: 10.1002/1878-0261.13151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
A more comprehensive understanding of how cells respond to drug intervention, the likely immediate signalling responses and how resistance may develop within different microenvironments will help inform treatment regimes. The nonreceptor tyrosine kinase SRC regulates many cellular signalling processes, and pharmacological inhibition has long been a target of cancer drug discovery projects. Here, we describe the in vitro and in vivo characterisation of the small-molecule SRC inhibitor AZD0424. We show that AZD0424 potently inhibits the phosphorylation of tyrosine-419 of SRC (IC50 ~ 100 nm) in many cancer cell lines; however, inhibition of cell viability, via a G1 cell cycle arrest, was observed only in a subset of cancer cell lines in the low (on target) micromolar range. We profiled the changes in intracellular pathway signalling in cancer cells following exposure to AZD0424 and other targeted therapies using reverse-phase protein array (RPPA) analysis. We demonstrate that SRC is activated in response to treatment of KRAS-mutant colorectal cell lines with MEK inhibitors (trametinib or AZD6244) and that AZD0424 abrogates this. Cell lines treated with trametinib or AZD6244 in combination with AZD0424 had reduced EGFR, FAK and SRC compensatory activation, and cell viability was synergistically inhibited. In vivo, trametinib treatment of mice-bearing HCT116 tumours increased phosphorylation of SRC on Tyr419, and, when combined with AZD0424, inhibition of tumour growth was greater than with trametinib alone. We also demonstrate that drug-induced resistance to trametinib is not re-sensitised by AZD0424 treatment in vitro, likely as a result of multiple compensatory signalling mechanisms; however, inhibition of SRC remains an effective way to block invasion of trametinib-resistant tumour cells. These data imply that SRC inhibition may offer a useful addition to MEK inhibitor combination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John C. Dawson
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Alison Munro
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Kenneth Macleod
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Morwenna Muir
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Paul Timpson
- Cancer ThemeThe Kinghorn Cancer CentreGarvan Institute of Medical ResearchSydneyAustralia
| | | | - Margaret Frame
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Valerie G. Brunton
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
| | - Neil O. Carragher
- Cancer Research UK Edinburgh CentreInstitute of Genetics and CancerUniversity of EdinburghEdinburghUK
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16
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Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, El-Guebaly N, McGrath DS, Nicoll F, Shaw CA, Stevens RMG. Making Change: Attempts to Reduce or Stop Gambling in a General Population Sample of People Who Gamble. Front Psychiatry 2022; 13:892238. [PMID: 36061299 PMCID: PMC9428338 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.892238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study examined past year attempts to reduce or quit gambling among people who gamble generally and those with gambling problems specifically. METHODS Regular gamblers recruited from an online panel (N = 10,054) completed a survey of gambling, mental health and substance use comorbidity and attempts to reduce or quit gambling. The sample was weighted to match the gambling and demographic profile for the same subsample (i.e., past month gamblers) in a recent Canadian national survey. RESULTS 5.7% reported that they tried to cutback or stop gambling in the past year. As predicted, individuals making a change attempt had greater levels of problem gambling severity and were more likely to have a gambling problem. Of individuals with problem gambling, 59.8% made a change attempt. Of those, 90.2% indicated that they did this primarily on their own, and 7.7% accessed formal or informal treatment. Most people attempting self- change indicated that this was a personal preference (55%) but about a third reported feeling too ashamed to seek help. Over a third (31%) reported that their attempt was successful. Of the small group of people accessing treatment, 39% described it as helpful. CONCLUSIONS Whereas gambling treatment-seeking rates are low, rates of self-change attempts are high. The public health challenge is to promote self-change efforts among people beginning to experience gambling problems, facilitate success at self-change by providing accessible support for use of successful strategies, and provide seamless bridges to a range of other treatments when desired or required.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Robert J Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Yale D Belanger
- Department of Political Science, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | | | - Nady El-Guebaly
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Daniel S McGrath
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Fiona Nicoll
- Department of Political Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Carrie A Shaw
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada.,Centre for Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Gibraltar
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17
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Shaw CA, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, el-Guebaly N, McGrath DS, Nicoll F, Smith GJ, Stevens RMG. Gambling in Canada During the COVID Lockdown: Prospective National Survey. J Gambl Stud 2022; 38:371-396. [PMID: 34545513 PMCID: PMC8451724 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10073-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The current study investigated the impact of the COVID pandemic lockdown on gambling and problem gambling in Canada. The AGRI National Project's online panel participants (N = 3449) provided baseline gambling data 6 months prior to the pandemic. Re-surveying this sample during the lockdown provided an opportunity to make quantitative comparisons of the changes. Nearly one-third of gamblers reported ceasing gambling altogether during the lockdown. For the continuing gamblers, quantitative data indicated significant decreases in gambling frequency, time spent in gambling sessions, money spent, and the number of game types played. Qualitative perceptions of changes in gambling were examined and the accuracy of these reports were not closely aligned with actual changes in gambling. Gambling platform was the only gambling engagement metric where increases were found with ~ 17% of the gambling sample migrating to online gambling during the lockdown. Although problem gambling within the sample generally declined, consistent with previous literature, it was also found that gambling online-among other biopsychosocial factors-was a significant predictor for classification as a problem gambler during the lockdown. COVID-specific influences on health, employment, leisure time and social isolation were moderately associated with problem gambling scores but were not independent predictors of changes in gambling engagement during lockdown. Future studies are required to assess if the pandemic related changes in gambling evidenced in this study remain stable, or if engagement reverts to pre-pandemic levels when the pandemic response allows for the re-opening of land-based gambling venues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carrie A. Shaw
- Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, University of Gibraltar, Europa Point Campus, Gibraltar, GX11 1AA Gibraltar ,University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
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18
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Matava C, So J, Williams RJ, Kelley S. Design and Implementation of a novel Weekend Elective Paediatric Surgery Program to Reduce COVID-19 Related Backlog: Operating Room Ramp-Up After COVID-19 Lockdown Ends - Extra Lists (ORRACLE-Xtra). JMIR Perioper Med 2021; 5:e35584. [PMID: 34887242 PMCID: PMC8929408 DOI: 10.2196/35584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic caused by the SARS-COV-2 virus has resulted in unprecedented challenges for the health care system. A decrease of surgical services led to substantial backlogs for time-sensitive scheduled pediatric patients. We designed and implemented a novel pilot weekend surgical quality improvement project called Operating Room Ramp-Up After COVID Lockdown Ends—Extra Lists (ORRACLE-Xtra). Objective Our overall goals are to increase patient access to surgery (and reduce the wait list), improve operating room efficiencies, and optimize parent and staff experience. Methods Using the DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve, control) framework, we implemented ORRACLE-Xtra in a tertiary care academic pediatric hospital during a quiescent period of the COVID-19 pandemic. We defined process and outcome measures based on provincial targets of out-of-window cases. Parental and staff satisfaction was tracked by surveys. Results ORRACLE-Xtra led to 247 patients receiving surgery during the pilot period, resulting in a 5% decrease in the total number of patients on our wait list with Paediatric Canadian Access Targets for Surgery IV (147/247, 59.5%), with 38.1% (94/247) out-of-window of provincial targets. Most of the process and outcome measures were met or exceeded. Overall parental satisfaction was at 95.8% (110/121), with 79% (64/81) of staff reporting satisfaction with working weekends. Conclusions Through the ORRACLE-Xtra pilot program, we have shown that hospitals impacted by COVID-19 can reduce the surgical backlog using innovative models of service delivery in a Canadian context. Sustained funding is critical to achieving more meaningful reductions in wait times for scheduled surgeries over the longer term and needs to be balanced with staff well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clyde Matava
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, 555 University Ave, Toronto, CA
| | - Jeannette So
- Perioperative Services, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Toronto, CA
| | - R J Williams
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Toronto, CA
| | - Simon Kelley
- Division of Orthopedic Surgery, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto, Toronto, CA
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19
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Meade RM, Watt KJC, Williams RJ, Mason JM. A Downsized and Optimised Intracellular Library-Derived Peptide Prevents Alpha-Synuclein Primary Nucleation and Toxicity Without Impacting Upon Lipid Binding. J Mol Biol 2021; 433:167323. [PMID: 34695381 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2021.167323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Misfolding and aggregation of alpha-synuclein (αS) within dopaminergic neurons is a key factor in the development and progression of a group of age-related neurodegenerative diseases, termed synucleinopathies, that include Parkinson's disease (PD). We previously derived a peptide inhibitor from a 209,952-member intracellular library screen by employing the preNAC region (45-54) as a design template. At least six single-point mutations firmly linked to early-onset Parkinson's disease (E46K, H50Q, G51D, A53T/E/V) are located within this region, strongly implicating a pathogenic role within αS that leads to increased cytotoxicity. A library-derived ten residue peptide, 4554W, was consequently shown to block αS aggregation at the point of primary nucleation via lipid induction, inhibiting its conversion into downstream cytotoxic species. Here we couple truncation with a full alanine scan analysis, to establish the effect upon the αS aggregation pathway relative to 4554W. This revealed the precise residues responsible for eliciting inhibitory interaction and function, as well as those potentially amenable to modification or functionalisation. We find that modification N6A combined with N-terminal truncation results in a peptide of significantly increased efficacy. Importantly, our data demonstrate that the peptide does not directly disrupt αS lipid-binding, a desirable trait since antagonists of αS aggregation and toxicity should not impede association with small synaptic neurotransmitter vesicles, and thus not disrupt dopaminergic vesicle fusion and recycling. This work paves the way toward the major aim of deriving a highly potent peptide antagonist of αS pathogenicity without impacting on native αS function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Meade
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J C Watt
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Jody M Mason
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
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20
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Christensen DR, Nicoll F, Williams RJ, Shaw CA, El-Guebaly N, Hodgins DC, McGrath DC, Smith GJ, Belanger YD, Stevens RMG. Responsible Gambling in Canada: An Analysis of the RG Check Patron Surveys. J Gambl Stud 2021; 38:905-915. [PMID: 34420137 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-021-10052-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study analyzed the Responsible Gambling Check patron survey data from Canadian casinos and racinos collected from 2011-2019 (18,580 patrons and 75 venues). The results indicated increasing awareness and use over time of harm minimization tools among more frequent patrons. Despite these promising trends, it is concerning that a substantial percentage of gamblers are still unaware of the harm minimization tools available. Further, the actual impact of this awareness on responsible gambling behaviour is largely unknown. We suggest greater efforts are needed nation-wide to promote the awareness, utilization, and evaluation of these harm minimization tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darren R Christensen
- University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada. .,University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.
| | | | - Robert J Williams
- University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada
| | - Carrie A Shaw
- University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Yale D Belanger
- University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada
| | - Rhys M G Stevens
- University of Lethbridge, 4401 University Drive, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada
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21
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Williams RJ, Mohanakumar KP, Beart PM. Neuro-nutraceuticals: Natural products nourish the brain but be aware of contrary effects. Neurochem Int 2021; 150:105159. [PMID: 34400236 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2021.105159] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
In this Special Issue on "Nutraceuticals: Molecular and Functional Insights into how Natural Products Nourish the Brain", the editors bring together contributions from experts in nutraceutical research to provide a contemporary overview of how select chemically identified molecules from natural products can beneficially affect brain function at the molecular level. Other contributions address the holistic benefit of herbal medicines and their multi-targeted actions, which improve brain function in diverse cellular and animal models of brain injury. Not only are new targets for nutraceuticals reported, but their benefits on neurobehavioural problems are elucidated in conditions as diverse as obesity and menopause. Inflammation in neuropathologies, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), remains a huge focus and diverse nutraceuticals demonstrate therapeutic applicability via glial-mediated actions. While contrary actions should be borne in mind in the search for novel neurotherapeutics, the great promise offered by herbal medicines and their newly identified active principles offers unique options for the management of diverse neurological and psychiatric conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, Bath, BA2 7AY, UK
| | - Kochupurackal P Mohanakumar
- Inter University Centre for Biomedical Research & Super Speciality Hospital, Mahatma Gandhi University, Thalappady Campus, Rubber Board P.O., Kottayam, Kerala, 686 009, India
| | - Philip M Beart
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3051, Australia; Department of Biochemistry and Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, 3010, Australia.
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22
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Hole KL, Staniaszek LE, Menon Balan G, Mason JM, Brown JT, Williams RJ. Oral (-)-Epicatechin Inhibits Progressive Tau Pathology in rTg4510 Mice Independent of Direct Actions at GSK3β. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:697319. [PMID: 34220446 PMCID: PMC8244787 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.697319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aggregation of the microtubule-associated protein tau into paired helical filaments (PHFs) and neurofibrillary tangles is a defining characteristic of Alzheimer’s Disease. Various plant polyphenols disrupt tau aggregation in vitro but display poor bioavailability and low potency, challenging their therapeutic translation. We previously reported that oral administration of the flavonoid (−)-epicatechin (EC) reduced Amyloid-β (Aβ) plaque pathology in APP/PS1 transgenic mice. Here, we investigated whether EC impacts on tau pathology, independent of actions on Aβ, using rTg4510 mice expressing P301L mutant tau. 4 and 6.5 months old rTg4510 mice received EC (∼18 mg/day) or vehicle (ethanol) via drinking water for 21 days and the levels of total and phosphorylated tau were assessed. At 4 months, tau appeared as two bands of ∼55 kDa, phosphorylated at Ser262 and Ser396 and was unaffected by exposure to EC. At 6.5 months an additional higher molecular weight form of tau was detected at ∼64 kDa which was phosphorylated at Ser262, Ser396 and additionally at the AT8 sites, indicative of the presence of PHFs. EC consumption reduced the levels of the ∼64 kDa tau species and inhibited phosphorylation at Ser262 and AT8 phosphoepitopes. Regulation of the key tau kinase glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β) by phosphorylation at Ser9 was not altered by exposure to EC in mice or primary neurons. Furthermore, EC did not significantly inhibit GSK3β activity at physiologically-relevant concentrations in a cell free assay. Therefore, a 21-day intervention with EC inhibits or reverses the development of tau pathology in rTg4510 mice independently of direct inhibition of GSK3β.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katriona L Hole
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Lydia E Staniaszek
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Gayathri Menon Balan
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Jody M Mason
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Jon T Brown
- Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Exeter Medical School, Exeter, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
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23
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Li E, Briley DA, Dixon MJ, Williams RJ. Cross-Cultural Studies Into Gambling Consumption Behavior: Eyeing Eye-Tracking Measures. Front Psychol 2021; 12:646007. [PMID: 34177700 PMCID: PMC8222542 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.646007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- En Li
- School of Business and Law, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD, Australia
| | - Donnel A Briley
- The University of Sydney Business School, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mike J Dixon
- Department of Psychology, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Robert J Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
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24
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Williams RJ, Leonard CA, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, El-Guebaly N, Hodgins DC, McGrath DS, Nicoll F, Smith GJ, Stevens RMG. Predictors of gambling and problem gambling in Canada. Can J Public Health 2021; 112:521-529. [PMID: 33439477 PMCID: PMC8076356 DOI: 10.17269/s41997-020-00443-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study is to provide an updated profile of gamblers and problem gamblers in Canada and to identify characteristics most strongly associated with problem gambling. METHODS An assessment of gambling participation and problem gambling was included in the 2018 Canadian Community Health Survey and administered to 23,952 individuals 18 years and older. Descriptive statistics provided a demographic profile for each type of gambling involvement as well as category of gambler (non-gambler, non-problem gambler, at-risk gambler, problem gambler). A logistic regression identified characteristics that best distinguished problem from non-problem gamblers. RESULTS Gambling participation and problem gambling both varied as a function of gender, income, educational attainment, and race/ethnicity. However, multivariate analysis identified electronic gambling machine (EGM) participation to be the primary predictor of problem gambling status, with race/ethnicity, presence of a mood disorder, male gender, casino table game participation, older age, a greater level of smoking, participation in speculative financial activity, instant lottery participation, lower household income, and lottery or raffle ticket participation providing additional predictive power. Provincial EGM density and EGM participation rates are also very strong predictors of provincial rates of at-risk and problem gambling. CONCLUSION Problem gambling has a biopsychosocial etiology, determined by personal vulnerability factors combined with the presence of riskier types of gambling such as EGMs. Effective prevention requires a multifaceted approach, but constraints on the availability and operation of EGMs would likely have the greatest single public health benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada.
| | | | - Yale D Belanger
- Political Science, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
| | - Darren R Christensen
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K3M4, Canada
| | - Nady El-Guebaly
- Division of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | | | | | - Fiona Nicoll
- Political Science, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Garry J Smith
- Physical Education and Recreation, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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25
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Williams RJ, Leonard CA, Belanger YD, Christensen DR, El-Guebaly N, Hodgins DC, McGrath DS, Nicoll F, Stevens RMG. Gambling and Problem Gambling in Canada in 2018: Prevalence and Changes Since 2002. Can J Psychiatry 2021; 66:485-494. [PMID: 33353387 PMCID: PMC8107954 DOI: 10.1177/0706743720980080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to provide an updated profile of gambling and problem gambling in Canada and to examine how the rates and pattern of participation compare to 2002. METHOD An assessment of gambling and problem gambling was included in the 2018 Canadian Community Health Survey and administered to 24,982 individuals aged 15 and older. The present analyses selected for adults (18+). RESULTS A total of 66.2% of people reported engaging in some type of gambling in 2018, primarily lottery and/or raffle tickets, the only type in which the majority of Canadians participate. There are some significant interprovincial differences, with perhaps the most important one being the higher rate of electronic gambling machine (EGM) participation in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. The overall pattern of gambling in 2018 is very similar to 2002, although participation is generally much lower in 2018, particularly for EGMs and bingo. Only 0.6% of the population were identified as problem gamblers in 2018, with an additional 2.7% being at-risk gamblers. There is no significant interprovincial variation in problem gambling rates. The interprovincial pattern of problem gambling in 2018 is also very similar to what was found in 2002 with the main difference being a 45% decrease in the overall prevalence of problem gambling. CONCLUSIONS Gambling and problem gambling have both decreased in Canada from 2002 to 2018 although the provincial patterns are quite similar between the 2 time periods. Several mechanisms have likely collectively contributed to these declines. Decreases have also been reported in several other Western countries in recent years and have occurred despite the expansion of legal gambling opportunities, suggesting a degree of inoculation or adaptation in large parts of the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, 4512University of Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Yale D Belanger
- Department of Political Science, 4512University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Canada
| | | | - Nady El-Guebaly
- Division of Addiction, Department of Psychiatry, 2129University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, 2129University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Daniel S McGrath
- Department of Psychology, 2129University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Fiona Nicoll
- Political Science, 3158University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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26
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Williams
- School of Social Sciences and Liberal Studies, Charles Sturt University
| | - Karen Standen
- School of Social Sciences and Liberal Studies, Charles Sturt University
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Williams RJ, Dunn AM, Mendes da Costa L, Hassall C. Climate and habitat configuration limit range expansion and patterns of dispersal in a non-native lizard. Ecol Evol 2021; 11:3332-3346. [PMID: 33841787 PMCID: PMC8019037 DOI: 10.1002/ece3.7284] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2020] [Revised: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Invasive species are one of the main causes of biodiversity loss worldwide. As introduced, populations increase in abundance and geographical range, so does the potential for negative impacts on native communities. As such, there is a need to better understand the processes driving range expansion as species become established in recipient landscapes. Through an investigation into capacity for population growth and range expansion of introduced populations of a non-native lizard (Podarcis muralis), we aimed to demonstrate how multi-scale factors influence spatial spread, population growth, and invasion potential in introduced species. We collated location records of P. muralis presence in England, UK through data collected from field surveys and a citizen science campaign. We used these data as input for presence-background models to predict areas of climate suitability at a national-scale (5 km resolution), and fine-scale habitat suitability at the local scale (2 m resolution). We then integrated local models into an individual-based modeling platform to simulate population dynamics and forecast range expansion for 10 populations in heterogeneous landscapes. National-scale models indicated climate suitability has restricted the species to the southern parts of the UK, primarily by a latitudinal cline in overwintering conditions. Patterns of population growth and range expansion were related to differences in local landscape configuration and heterogeneity. Growth curves suggest populations could be in the early stages of exponential growth. However, annual rates of range expansion are predicted to be low (5-16 m). We conclude that extensive nationwide range expansion through secondary introduction is likely to be restricted by currently unsuitable climate beyond southern regions of the UK. However, exponential growth of local populations in habitats providing transport pathways is likely to increase opportunities for regional expansion. The broad habitat niche of P. muralis, coupled with configuration of habitat patches in the landscape, allows populations to increase locally with minimal dispersal.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Biological SciencesSchool of BiologyUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Alison M. Dunn
- Faculty of Biological SciencesSchool of BiologyUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Lily Mendes da Costa
- Faculty of Biological SciencesSchool of BiologyUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
| | - Christopher Hassall
- Faculty of Biological SciencesSchool of BiologyUniversity of LeedsLeedsLS2 9JTUK
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Abstract
Objective: The relationship between the level of gambling fallacy endorsement and type of gambler (nongambler, recreational gambler, at-risk gambler, and problem/pathological gambler) was assessed both concurrently and prospectively in a large national cohort of Canadian adults. Method: This cohort (n = 10,199 at baseline; 18-24 years, n = 481, 43% female; 25-34 years, n = 1,335, 62% female; 35-44 years, n = 1,543, 55% female, 45-54 years, n = 1,985, 58% female; 55-64 years, n = 2,459, 55% female; 65-74 years, n = 1,865, 44% female, 75+ years, n = 531, 43% female) was recruited from LEO, Leger Opinion's registered online panelists. The follow-up survey was completed by 55.9% of the cohort, 1 year after baseline. The full survey can be viewed at https://www.ucalgary.ca/research/national-gambling-study/. For the current study, scores on the Gambling Fallacies Measure, the Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure, Gambling Participation Instrument, and Impulsivity were analyzed. Results: There were three main findings. The first is that gambling fallacies are common in all categories of gamblers but somewhat more prevalent in problem and pathological gamblers. Second, the multivariate analysis determined that gambling fallacies are significant concurrent and prospective predictors of the problem/pathological gambling category, but not strong predictors relative to other variables. Third, problem gambling and heavier gambling involvement are also predictors of a future higher level of gambling fallacies. Conclusions: Collectively, these results show that gambling fallacies have some etiological relationship to problem gambling but are not the main cause of problem gambling and should not be the exclusive focus of problem gambling treatment. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).
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Abstract
Attempts to develop a disease modifying intervention for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) through targeting amyloid β (Aβ) have so far been unsuccessful. There is, therefore, a need for novel therapeutics against alternative targets coupled with approaches which may be suitable for early and sustained use likely required for AD prevention. Numerous in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that flavonoids can act within processes and pathways relevant to AD, such as Aβ and tau pathology, increases in BDNF, inflammation, oxidative stress and neurogenesis. However, the therapeutic development of flavonoids has been hindered by an ongoing lack of clear mechanistic data that fully takes into consideration metabolism and bioavailability of flavonoids in vivo. With a focus on studies that incorporate these considerations into their experimental design, this review will evaluate the evidence for developing specific flavonoids as therapeutics for AD. Given the current lack of success of anti-Aβ targeting therapeutics, particular attention will be given to flavonoid-mediated regulation of tau phosphorylation and aggregation, where there is a comparable lack of study. Reflecting on this evidence, the obstacles that prevent therapeutic development of flavonoids will be examined. Finally, the significance of recent advances in flavonoid metabolomics, modifications and influence of the microbiome on the therapeutic capacity of flavonoids in AD are explored. By highlighting the potential of flavonoids to target multiple aspects of AD pathology, as well as considering the hurdles, this review aims to promote the efficient and effective identification of flavonoid-based approaches that have potential as therapeutic interventions for AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katriona L Hole
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, UK
| | - Robert J Williams
- Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, UK
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Kazemi P, Lau F, Simpao AF, Williams RJ, Matava C. The state of adoption of anesthesia information management systems in Canadian academic anesthesia departments: a survey. Can J Anaesth 2021; 68:693-705. [PMID: 33512661 DOI: 10.1007/s12630-021-01924-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Anesthesia information management systems (AIMS) are gradually replacing paper documentation of anesthesia care. This study sought to determine the current status of AIMS adoption and the level of health informatics expertise in Canadian academic anesthesia departments. METHODS Department heads or their designates of Canadian academic anesthesia departments were invited by e-mail to complete an online survey between September 2019 and February 2020. The survey elicited information on current AIMS or future plans for an AIMS installation, the number of department members dedicated to clinical informatics issues, the gross level of health informatics expertise at each department, perceived advantages of AIMS, and perceived disadvantages of and barriers to implementation of AIMS. RESULTS Of the 64 departments invited to participate, 63 (98.4%) completed the survey. Only 21 (33.3%) of the departments had AIMS. Of the 42 departments still charting on paper, 23 (54.8%) reported planning to install an AIMS within the next five years. Forty-six departments (73%) had at least one anesthesiologist tasked with dealing with AIMS or electronic health record issues. Most reported having no department members with extensive knowledge or formal training in health informatics. The top three perceived barriers and disadvantages to an AIMS installation were its initial cost, lack of funding, and a lack of technical support dedicated specifically to AIMS. The top three advantages departments wished to prioritize with AIMS were accurate clinical documentation, better data for quality improvement initiatives, and better data for research. CONCLUSIONS A majority of Canadian academic anesthesia departments are still using paper records, but this trend is expected to reverse in the next five years as more departments install an AIMS. Health informatics expertise is lacking in most of the departments, with a minority planning to support the training of future anesthesia informaticians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooya Kazemi
- South Island Department of Anesthesia, Victoria, BC, Canada
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- School of Health Information Science, University of Victoria, Victoria, BC, Canada
| | - Francis Lau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Allan F Simpao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - R J Williams
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada
| | - Clyde Matava
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, 555 University Avenue, Toronto, ON, M5G 1X8, Canada.
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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Currie SR, Hodgins DC, Williams RJ, Fiest K. Predicting future harm from gambling over a five-year period in a general population sample: a survival analysis. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:15. [PMID: 33413234 PMCID: PMC7792302 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-020-03016-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is little longitudinal evidence on the cumulative risk of harm from gambling associated with excess spending and frequency of play. The present study sought to assess the risk of gambling problems over a five-year period in adults who exceed previously derived low-risk gambling limits compared to those who remain within the limits after controlling for other modifiable risk factors. METHODS Participants were adults (N = 4212) drawn from two independent Canadian longitudinal cohort studies who reported gambling in the past year and were free of problem gambling at time 1. Multivariate Cox regression was employed to assess the impact over time of gambling above low-risk gambling thresholds (frequency ≥ 8 times per month; expenditure ≥75CAD per month; percent of household income spent on gambling ≥1.7%) on developing moderate harm and problem gambling. Covariates included presence of a DSM5 addiction or mental health disorder at time 1, irrational gambling beliefs, number of stressful life events in past 12 months, number of game types played each year, and playing electronic gaming machines or casino games. RESULTS In both samples, exceeding the low-risk gambling limits at time 1 significantly increased the risk of moderate harm (defined as ≥2 consequences on the Problem Gambling Severity Index [PGSI]) within 5 years after controlling for other modifiable risk factors. Other significant predictors of harm were presence of a mental disorder at time 1, cognitive distortions about gambling, stressful life events, and playing electronic gaming machines or casino games. In one sample, the five-year cumulative survival rate for moderate harm among individuals who stayed below all the low-risk limits was 95% compared to 83% among gamblers who exceeded all limits. Each additional low-risk limit exceeded increased the cumulative probability of harm by 30%. Similar results were found in models when the outcome was problem gambling. CONCLUSIONS Level of gambling involvement represents a highly modifiable risk factor for later harm. Staying below empirically derived safe gambling thresholds reduces the risk of harm over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shawn R Currie
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada.
- Alberta Health Services - Calgary Zone, 10101 Southport Rd SW, Calgary, AB, T2W 3N2, Canada.
| | - David C Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, 2500 University Dr. N.W., Calgary, AB, T2N 1N4, Canada
| | - Robert J Williams
- University of Lethbridge Faculty of Health Sciences, 4401 University Drive, Lethbridge, Alberta, T1K 3M4, Canada
| | - Kirsten Fiest
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, 3330 Hospital Drive NW, Calgary, Alberta, T2N 4N1, Canada
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Meade RM, Morris KJ, Watt KJC, Williams RJ, Mason JM. The Library Derived 4554W Peptide Inhibits Primary Nucleation of α-Synuclein. J Mol Biol 2020; 432:166706. [PMID: 33186583 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmb.2020.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Revised: 11/02/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Aggregation of α-Synuclein (αS) is widely regarded as a key factor in neuronal cell death, leading to a wide range of synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's Disease. Development of therapeutics has therefore focused on inhibiting aggregation of αS into toxic forms. One such inhibitor, based on the preNAC region αS45-54 (4554W), was identified using an intracellular peptide library screen, and subsequently shown to both inhibit formation of αS aggregates while simultaneously lowering toxicity. Subsequent efforts have sought to determine the mode of 4554W action. In particular, and consistent with the fact that both target and peptide are co-produced during library screening, we find that the peptide inhibits primary nucleation of αS, but does not modulate downstream elongation or secondary nucleation events. These findings hold significant promise towards mechanistic understanding and development of molecules that can module the first steps in αS aggregation towards novel treatments for Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Meade
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Kimberley J Morris
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Kathryn J C Watt
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J Williams
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Jody M Mason
- Depart of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Claverton Down, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
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33
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Russell GE, Sanders JL, Williams RJ. Implicit memory associations and video gaming. Addict Behav 2020; 108:106444. [PMID: 32335397 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The aim of this study was to develop measures to assess implicit memory associations for video gaming and to examine the relationship between implicit memory associations, video gaming involvement, and problem video gaming. METHODS A survey of online panelists from across Canada was conducted that included 166 problem video gamers who were recruited for participation in a larger study examining the relationship between gambling, video gaming, and collectible card play. Memory associations were assessed using a 10-item measures of word associations and behaviour associations. Video gaming involvement was assessed via self-report of time and frequency of play, and problem video gaming was assessed using the Behavioral Addiction Measure for Video Gaming (BAM-VG). RESULTS Significant Kendall tau-b correlations ranging from 0.297 to 0.405 were found between measures of memory associations and both level of video gaming involvement and problem video gaming. CONCLUSIONS There is a robust relationship between memory associations for video gaming with level of video gaming involvement and problem video gaming. The results suggest that implicit associations may have utility in the assessment of problem video gaming.
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34
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Green TRF, Ortiz JB, Wonnacott S, Williams RJ, Rowe RK. The Bidirectional Relationship Between Sleep and Inflammation Links Traumatic Brain Injury and Alzheimer's Disease. Front Neurosci 2020; 14:894. [PMID: 32982677 PMCID: PMC7479838 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2020.00894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are diseases during which the fine-tuned autoregulation of the brain is lost. Despite the stark contrast in their causal mechanisms, both TBI and AD are conditions which elicit a neuroinflammatory response that is coupled with physical, cognitive, and affective symptoms. One commonly reported symptom in both TBI and AD patients is disturbed sleep. Sleep is regulated by circadian and homeostatic processes such that pathological inflammation may disrupt the chemical signaling required to maintain a healthy sleep profile. In this way, immune system activation can influence sleep physiology. Conversely, sleep disturbances can exacerbate symptoms or increase the risk of inflammatory/neurodegenerative diseases. Both TBI and AD are worsened by a chronic pro-inflammatory microenvironment which exacerbates symptoms and worsens clinical outcome. Herein, a positive feedback loop of chronic inflammation and sleep disturbances is initiated. In this review, the bidirectional relationship between sleep disturbances and inflammation is discussed, where chronic inflammation associated with TBI and AD can lead to sleep disturbances and exacerbated neuropathology. The role of microglia and cytokines in sleep disturbances associated with these diseases is highlighted. The proposed sleep and inflammation-mediated link between TBI and AD presents an opportunity for a multifaceted approach to clinical intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tabitha R. F. Green
- BARROW Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - J. Bryce Ortiz
- BARROW Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, United States
| | - Sue Wonnacott
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel K. Rowe
- BARROW Neurological Institute at Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Department of Child Health, University of Arizona College of Medicine – Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ, United States
- Phoenix Veteran Affairs Health Care System, Phoenix, AZ, United States
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35
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Williams RJ, Horrocks JA, Pernetta AP. Habitat use by an endemic and a non-native gecko: natural habitat provides a last refuge for the Barbados Leaf-Toed gecko. Neotropical Biodiversity 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/23766808.2020.1804750] [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: 10/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Williams
- School of Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Conservation and Zoonosis Research and Enterprise Group, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Julia A. Horrocks
- Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences, University of the West Indies, Barbados, West Indies
| | - Angelo P. Pernetta
- Conservation and Zoonosis Research and Enterprise Group, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
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Hilbrecht M, Baxter D, Abbott M, Binde P, Clark L, Hodgins DC, Manitowabi D, Quilty L, SpÅngberg J, Volberg R, Walker D, Williams RJ. The Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling: A revised framework for understanding gambling harm. J Behav Addict 2020; 9:190-205. [PMID: 32554839 PMCID: PMC8939413 DOI: 10.1556/2006.2020.00024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS The Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling moves beyond a symptoms-based view of harm and addresses a broad set of factors related to the risks and effects of gambling harmfully at the individual, family, and community levels. Coauthored by international research experts and informed by multiple stakeholders, Gambling Research Exchange (GREO) facilitated the framework development in 2013 and retains responsibility for regular updates and mobilization. This review article presents information about the revised version of the Conceptual Framework of Harmful Gambling completed in late 2018. METHODS We describe eight interrelated factors depicted in the framework that represent major themes in gambling ranging from the specific (gambling environment, exposure, gambling types, and treatment resources) to the general (cultural, social, psychological, and biological influences). After outlining the framework development and collaborative process, we highlight new topics for the recent update that reflect changes in the gambling landscape and prominent discourses in the scientific community. Some of these topics include social and economic impacts of gambling, and a new model of understanding gambling related harm. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS We address the relevance of the CFHG to the gambling and behavioral addictions research community. Harm-based frameworks have been undertaken in other areas of addiction that can both inform and be informed by a model dedicated to harmful gambling. Further, the framework brings a multi-disciplinary perspective to bear on antecedents and factors that co-occur with harmful gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margo Hilbrecht
- Gambling Research Exchange, Guelph, ON, Canada,Deptartment of Recreation & Leisure Studies, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada,Corresponding author. Gambling Research Exchange, 55 Wyndham St. N., Suite 204A, Guelph, ON, N1H 7T8, Canada E-mail: . Tel.: +1 519 763 8049, x101
| | | | - Max Abbott
- Faculty of Health and Environmental Sciences, Auckland University of Technology, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Per Binde
- School of Global Studies, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Luke Clark
- Centre for Gambling Research at UBC, Department of Psychology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - David C. Hodgins
- Department of Psychology, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada
| | - Darrel Manitowabi
- School of Northern and Community Studies, Laurentian University, Sudbury, ON, Canada
| | - Lena Quilty
- Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON, Canada,Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Rachel Volberg
- School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA, USA
| | - Douglas Walker
- Department of Economics, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC, USA
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
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Antipov S, Williams RJ, Sabella A, Kitzler O, Berhane A, Spence DJ, Mildren RP. Analysis of a thermal lens in a diamond Raman laser operating at 1.1 kW output power. Opt Express 2020; 28:15232-15239. [PMID: 32403554 DOI: 10.1364/oe.388794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
We report experimental observations of thermal lens effects in a diamond Raman laser operating up to 1.1 kW output power in a quasi- steady-state regime. Measured changes in the output beam parameters as a function of output power, including beam quality factor and beam divergence after a fixed focusing lens, are compared to modelling enabling us to track the development of a thermal lens up to 16 diopters at maximum output power. Analysis shows that good agreement between model and experiment is obtained by considering the power deposition profile and the spatial overlap with the laser mode. The results clarify previous work that raised questions about thermal lens effects in the diamond gain medium and provides increased confidence in thermal models for determining the power limits for the current design.
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Hoyle HW, Smith LA, Williams RJ, Przyborski SA. Applications of novel bioreactor technology to enhance the viability and function of cultured cells and tissues. Interface Focus 2020; 10:20190090. [PMID: 32194933 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2019.0090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
As the field of tissue engineering continues to advance rapidly, so too does the complexity of cell culture techniques used to generate in vitro tissue constructs, with the overall aim of mimicking the in vivo microenvironment. This complexity typically comes at a cost with regards to the size of the equipment required and associated expenses. We have developed a small, low-cost bioreactor system which overcomes some of the issues of typical bioreactor systems while retaining a suitable scale for the formation of complex tissues. Herein, we have tested this system with three cell populations/tissues: the culture of hepatocellular carcinoma cells, where an improved structure and basic metabolic function is seen; the culture of human pluripotent stem cells, in which the cultures can form more heterogeneous tissues resembling the in vivo teratoma and ex vivo liver tissue slices, in which improved maintenance of cellular viability is seen over the 3 days tested. This system has the flexibility to be used for a variety of further uses and has the potential to provide a more accessible alternative to current bioreactor technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- H W Hoyle
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - L A Smith
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - R J Williams
- Department of Engineering, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK
| | - S A Przyborski
- Department of Biosciences, Durham University, South Road, Durham DH1 3LE, UK.,Reprocell Europe Ltd, NETPark Incubator, Thomas Wright Way, Sedgefield TS21 3FD, UK
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Williams RJ, Morton MN, Daltry JC, Toussaint A. The distribution of non-native Anolis lizards on Saint Lucia, Lesser Antilles. CARIBB J SCI 2019. [DOI: 10.18475/cjos.v49i2.a15] [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: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Williams
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, La Profonde Rue, Trinity, Jersey JE3 5BP, British Channel Islands
| | - Matthew N. Morton
- Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust, Les Augrès Manor, La Profonde Rue, Trinity, Jersey JE3 5BP, British Channel Islands
| | - Jennifer C Daltry
- Fauna & Flora International, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QZ, United Kingdom
| | - Adams Toussaint
- Fauna & Flora International, The David Attenborough Building, Pembroke Street, Cambridge CB2 3QZ, United Kingdom
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40
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Parke J, Williams RJ, Schofield P. Exploring psychological need satisfaction from gambling participation and the moderating influence of game preferences. International Gambling Studies 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/14459795.2019.1633381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Parke
- Salford Business School, University of Salford, Salford, UK
- Sophro Ltd, Newark Beacon, Newark-on-Trent, UK
| | - Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, AB, Canada
| | - Peter Schofield
- Department of Service Sector Management, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
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41
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Antipov S, Sabella A, Williams RJ, Kitzler O, Spence DJ, Mildren RP. 1.2 kW quasi-steady-state diamond Raman laser pumped by an M 2 = 15 beam. Opt Lett 2019; 44:2506-2509. [PMID: 31090718 DOI: 10.1364/ol.44.002506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/10/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
An external cavity diamond Raman laser with 1.2 kW output power is demonstrated for durations 7 times longer than the thermal lens time constant. An 83% slope efficiency and a 53% optical-to-optical efficiency were obtained for conversion from a 1.06 μm pump to the 1.24 μm first Stokes. The pump had an M2 of 15, demonstrating that efficiency is maintained at the highest levels even when using exceptionally poor quality pumps. We show that a measured decrease in the output beam quality factor from M2=2.95 to M2=1.25 as power increased is evidence for thermal lens development in the diamond. The results foreshadow development of continuous-wave kilowatt-class lasers or amplifiers based on single diamond elements and pumped efficiently by lasers having poor spatial coherence such as line-narrowed diode laser arrays.
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42
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Russell GE, Williams RJ, Sanders JL. The relationship between memory associations, gambling involvement, and problem gambling. Addict Behav 2019; 92:47-52. [PMID: 30579883 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Revised: 12/10/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The current study aimed to examine the relationship between implicit memory associations, gambling involvement, and problem gambling in a large representative group of Canadian adults. The sample consisted of 3078 (48.1% males, mean age 43.93, SD = 15.82) adult online panelists from across Canada that included 388 problem and pathological gamblers. Memory associations were assessed using a 10-item measure of word associations and a 10-item measure of behavioural associations. Gambling involvement was assessed via self-report of involvement, and problem gambling was assessed using the Problem and Pathological Gambling Measure (PPGM). Significant associations were found between measures of memory associations and both level of gambling involvement and problem gambling, with the magnitude of the correlations ranging from 0.262 to 0.388. Behavioural associations tended to have a stronger relationship with gambling involvement and problem gambling than word associations. The results of this study suggest that implicit associations may have utility in the assessment of problem gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joel Mader
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada
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44
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Williams RJ, Dunn AM, Quinn CH, Hassall C. Stakeholder discourse and opinion towards a charismatic non‐native lizard species: Potential invasive problem or a welcome addition? People Nat 2019. [DOI: 10.1002/pan3.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J. Williams
- Faculty of Biological Sciences School of Biology University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Alison M. Dunn
- Faculty of Biological Sciences School of Biology University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Claire H. Quinn
- Faculty of Environment School of Earth and Environment University of Leeds Leeds UK
| | - Christopher Hassall
- Faculty of Biological Sciences School of Biology University of Leeds Leeds UK
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45
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Ngan CGY, O’Connell CD, Blanchard R, Boyd-Moss M, Williams RJ, Bourke J, Quigley A, McKelvie P, Kapsa RMI, Choong PFM. Optimising the biocompatibility of 3D printed photopolymer constructs
in vitro
and
in vivo. Biomed Mater 2019; 14:035007. [DOI: 10.1088/1748-605x/ab09c4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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46
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Gulácsy CE, Meade R, Catici DAM, Soeller C, Pantos GD, Jones DD, Alibhai D, Jepson M, Valev VK, Mason JM, Williams RJ, Pudney CR. Excitation-Energy-Dependent Molecular Beacon Detects Early Stage Neurotoxic Aβ Aggregates in the Presence of Cortical Neurons. ACS Chem Neurosci 2019; 10:1240-1250. [PMID: 30346718 DOI: 10.1021/acschemneuro.8b00322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is now crucial medical importance placed on understanding the role of early stage, subvisible protein aggregation, particularly in neurodegenerative disease. While there are strategies for detecting such aggregates in vitro, there is no approach at present that can detect these toxic species associated with cells and specific subcellular compartments. We have exploited excitation-energy-dependent fluorescence edge-shift of recombinant protein labeled with a molecular beacon, to provide a sensitive read out for the presence of subvisible protein aggregates. To demonstrate the potential utility of the approach, we examine the major peptide associated with the initiation of Alzheimer's disease, amyloid β-protein (Aβ) at a patho-physiologically relevant concentration in mouse cortical neurons. Using our approach, we find preliminary evidence that subvisible Aβ aggregates are detected at specific subcellular regions and that neurons drive the formation of specific Aβ aggregate conformations. These findings therefore demonstrate the potential of a novel fluorescence-based approach for detecting and imaging protein aggregates in a cellular context, which can be used to sensitively probe the association of early stage toxic protein aggregates within subcellular compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Christian Soeller
- Biomedical Physics, University of Exeter, Exeter EX4 4QD, United Kingdom
| | | | - D. Dafydd Jones
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF10 3TL, United Kingdom
| | - Dominic Alibhai
- Wolfson Bioimaging Facility, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TS, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Jepson
- Wolfson Bioimaging Facility, University of Bristol, Bristol BS8 1TS, United Kingdom
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47
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Williams RJ, Karpuzoglu E, Connell H, Hurley DJ, Holladay SD, Gogal RM. Lead alters intracellular protein signaling and suppresses pro-inflammatory activation in TLR4 and IFNR-stimulated murine RAW 264.7 cells, in vitro. J Toxicol Environ Health A 2019; 82:279-298. [PMID: 30890031 DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2019.1591315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Lead (Pb) is a persistent environmental pollutant that has a structure and charge similar to many ions, such as calcium, that are essential for normal cellular function. Pb may compete with calcium for protein binding sites and inhibit signaling pathways within the cell affecting many organ systems including the immune system. The aim of the current study was to assess whether the calcium/calmodulin pathway is a principal target of environmentally relevant Pb during pro-inflammatory activation in a RAW 264.7 macrophage cell line. RAW 264.7 cells were cultured with 5 μM Pb(NO3)2, LPS, rIFNγ, or LPS+rIFNγ for 12, 24, or 48 hr. Intracellular protein signaling and multiple functional endpoints were investigated to determine Pb-mediated effects on macrophage function. Western blot analysis revealed that Pb initially modulated nuclear localization of NFκB p65 and cytoplasmic phosphorylation of CaMKIV accompanied by increased phosphorylation of STAT1β at 24 hr. Macrophage proliferation was significantly decreased at 12 hr in the presence of Pb, while nitric oxide (NO) was significantly reduced at 12 and 24 hr. Cells cultured with Pb for 12, 24, or 48 hr exhibited altered cytokine levels after specific stimuli activation. Our findings are in agreement with previous reports suggesting that macrophage pro-inflammatory responses are significantly modulated by Pb. Further, Pb-induced phosphorylation of CaMKIV (pCaMKIV), observed in the present study, may be a contributing factor in metal-induced autophagy noted in our previous study with this same cell line.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Williams
- a Department of Veterinary Biosciences & Diagnostic Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - E Karpuzoglu
- a Department of Veterinary Biosciences & Diagnostic Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - H Connell
- b Department of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Pharmacy South , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - D J Hurley
- c Department of Population Health, College of Veterinary Medicine , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - S D Holladay
- a Department of Veterinary Biosciences & Diagnostic Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
| | - R M Gogal
- a Department of Veterinary Biosciences & Diagnostic Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine , University of Georgia , Athens , GA , USA
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48
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Yang X, Kitzler O, Spence DJ, Williams RJ, Bai Z, Sarang S, Zhang L, Feng Y, Mildren RP. Single-frequency 620 nm diamond laser at high power, stabilized via harmonic self-suppression and spatial-hole-burning-free gain. Opt Lett 2019; 44:839-842. [PMID: 30768000 DOI: 10.1364/ol.44.000839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Single longitudinal mode (SLM) operation of a 620 nm diamond Raman laser is demonstrated in a standing-wave cavity that includes a second-harmonic generation element. Mode competition provided by the harmonic mixing is shown to greatly increase mode stability, in addition to the benefits of the spatial-hole-burning-free gain medium. Using a multi-longitudinal mode 1064 nm Nd:YAG pump laser of power 321 W and linewidth 3.3 GHz, SLM powers of 38 W at 620 nm and 11.8 W at 1240 nm were obtained. The results indicate that simple standing-wave oscillators pumped by multimode Yb or Nd pumps compose a promising practical route towards the generation of high-power SLM beams in the yellow-red part of the spectrum.
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49
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Law BM, Guest AL, Pullen MWJ, Perkinton MS, Williams RJ. Increased Foxo3a Nuclear Translocation and Activity is an Early Neuronal Response to βγ-Secretase-Mediated Processing of the Amyloid-β Protein Precursor: Utility of an AβPP-GAL4 Reporter Assay. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 61:673-688. [PMID: 29254083 DOI: 10.3233/jad-170393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Sequential cleavage of the amyloid-β protein precursor (AβPP) by BACE1 (β-secretase) followed by theγ-secretase complex, is strongly implicated in Alzheimer's disease (AD) but the initial cellular responses to these cleavage events are not fully defined. β-secretase-mediated AβPP processing yields an extracellular domain (sAβPPβ) and a C-terminal fragment of AβPP of 99 amino acids (C99). Subsequent cleavage by γ-secretase produces amyloid-β (Aβ) and an AβPP intracellular domain (AICD). A cellular screen based on the generation of AICD from an AβPP-Gal4 fusion protein was adapted by introducing familial AD (FAD) mutations into the AβPP sequence and linking the assay to Gal4-UAS driven luciferase and GFP expression, to identify responses immediately downstream of AβPP processing in neurons with a focus on the transcription factor Foxo3a which has been implicated in neurodegeneration. The K670N/M671L, E682K, E693G, and V717I FAD mutations and the A673T protective mutation, were introduced into the AβPP sequence by site directed mutagenesis. When expressed in mouse cortical neurons, AβPP-Gal4-UAS driven luciferase and GFP expression was substantially reduced by γ-secretase inhibitors, lowered by β-secretase inhibitors, and enhanced by α-secretase inhibitors suggesting that AICD is a product of the βγ-secretase pathway. AβPP-Gal4-UAS driven GFP expression was exploited to identify individual neurons undergoing amyloidogenic AβPP processing, revealing increased nuclear localization of Foxo3a and enhanced Foxo3a-mediated transcription downstream of AICD production. Foxo3a translocation was not driven by AICD directly but correlated with reduced Akt phosphorylation. Collectively this suggests that βγ-secretase-mediated AβPP processing couples to Foxo3a which could be an early neuronal signaling response in AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard M Law
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Amy L Guest
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | | | | | - Robert J Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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50
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Pereira Morais MP, Kassaar O, Flower SE, Williams RJ, James TD, van den Elsen JMH. Analysis of Protein Glycation Using Phenylboronate Acrylamide Gel Electrophoresis. Methods Mol Biol 2019; 1855:161-175. [PMID: 30426417 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4939-8793-1_16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [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] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Carbohydrate modification of proteins adds complexity and diversity to the proteome. However, undesired carbohydrate modifications also occur in the form of glycation, which have been implicated in diseases such as diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, autoimmune diseases, and cancer. The analysis of glycated proteins is challenging due to their complexity and variability. Numerous analytical techniques have been developed that require expensive specialized equipment and complex data analysis. In this chapter, we describe two easy-to-use electrophoresis-based methods that will enable researchers to detect, identify, and analyze these posttranslational modifications. This new cost-effective methodology will aid the detection of unwanted glycation products in processed foods and may lead to new diagnostics and therapeutics for age-related chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Omar Kassaar
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | | | - Robert J Williams
- Department of Biology and Biochemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
| | - Tony D James
- Department of Chemistry, University of Bath, Bath, UK
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