Publications by authors named "Michael Prowse"

A case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) occurring on low dose immunosuppression for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjogren's syndrome (SS) is presented. Neurologic changes in patients with SLE or SS should not be assumed to be a disease manifestation. Importantly, serious opportunistic infections such as PML can occur in minimally immunosuppressed rheumatic patients.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

The insect microsporidian Anncaliia algerae was first described in 2004 as a cause of fatal myositis in an immunosuppressed person from Pennsylvania, USA. Two cases were subsequently reported, and we detail 2 additional cases, including the only nonfatal case. We reviewed all 5 case histories with respect to clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and management and summarized organism life cycle and epidemiology.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Geckos owe their remarkable stickiness to millions of dry setae on their toes, and the mechanism of adhesion in gecko setae has been the topic of scientific scrutiny for over two centuries. Previously, we demonstrated that van der Waals forces are sufficient for strong adhesion and friction in gecko setae, and that water-based capillary adhesion is not required. However, recent studies demonstrated that adhesion increases with relative humidity (RH) and proposed that surface hydration and capillary water bridge formation is important or even necessary.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF
Article Synopsis
  • The study tested how increased relative humidity (RH) affects the mechanical properties of keratin in gecko foot hairs (setae).
  • Results showed that higher RH significantly reduced the stiffness and increased the strain to failure of the setae, indicating a transition to more viscous deformation.
  • The findings suggest that softer setal keratin due to higher humidity enhances the gecko's ability to adhere and grip surfaces.
View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Understanding the common childhood epilepsy syndromes is valuable when approaching the diagnosis and management of a child presenting with seizures.

Objective: This article discusses the common epilepsy syndromes in children and provides a guide to appropriate investigation and management of these syndromes.

Discussion: A careful history and examination, supported by an electroencephalogram, are the cornerstones of epilepsy syndrome diagnosis.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF