Publications by authors named "M C WILLCOX"

Antimicrobial resistance is a critical global challenge in the 21st century, validating Sir Alexander Fleming's warning about the misuse of antibiotics leading to resistant microbes. With a dwindling arsenal of effective antibiotics, it is imperative to concentrate on alternative antimicrobial strategies. Previous studies have not comprehensively discussed the advantages and limitations of various strategies, including bacteriophage therapy, probiotics, immunotherapies, photodynamic therapy, essential oils, nanoparticles and antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) within a single review.

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Purpose: To assess the repeatability of lipid layer thickness (LLT) measurement using the LipiView® interferometer after daily disposable contact lens (CL) wear and correlation with ocular comfort in soft contact lens wearers.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted over two consecutive months, wherein CL wearers (n = 20) wore either Somofilcon A or Verofilcon A daily disposable CLs in a crossover design, switching lenses after 1 month. The pre-corneal tear film LLT was measured at the end of each month after CLs had been worn for at least 6 h.

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Article Synopsis
  • The study focused on analyzing multidrug-resistant (MDR) isolates for their ability to form biofilms and the presence of associated genes at a hospital in Nepal.
  • A significant majority of the isolates were found to be strong biofilm producers, with 195 out of 200 being MDR and 192 capable of biofilm formation.
  • Cinnamaldehyde was the most effective compound in inhibiting biofilm formation, with essential oils and Tween 80 also showing high efficacy, providing insights for potential treatment options against these resistant strains.
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Aim: Previous studies have demonstrated that contact lenses coated with the antimicrobial cationic peptide Mel4, a derivative of melimine, can reduce the occurrence of keratitis. However, the antimicrobial activity of Mel4 weakened over time due to its susceptibility to proteolytic degradation. Oligo-N-substituted glycine peptoids such as TM5 and TM18 possess antimicrobial properties and are resistant to proteolytic breakdown.

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Article Synopsis
  • In Uganda, many women want to postpone future pregnancies, but the use of postpartum family planning (PPFP) is low, particularly regarding postpartum long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).
  • A qualitative study involving interviews and discussions with postpartum women, partners, and health workers was conducted to investigate the behavioral factors influencing LARC usage in Eastern Uganda.
  • Key findings revealed issues such as women’s lack of knowledge and misconceptions about LARCs, limited health worker capabilities, men's reluctance to engage in family planning decisions, and the need for improved education and support to boost PPFP uptake.
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