Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Periodontitis and Rheumatoid Arthritis in sub-Saharan Africa, gaps and way forward: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background This review identified papers that described periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis in sub-Saharan Africa. Only English language publications from January 2010 to December 2017 describing original research in sub-Saharan Africa on the association between periodontitis and rheumatoid arthritis were considered for this study. Methods Published databases: PubMed, Science direct and Google scholar, were searched using terms "periodontitis", "rheumatoid arthritis" and "Sub-Saharan Africa" to generate a set of putative studies. Articles with data on both rheumatoid arthritis and periodontitis compared to controls were selected. Studies on the association of periodontitis with cardiovascular disease, arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis alone were excluded. Data were extracted, critically appraised, and analyzed using a random-effect Mantel-Haenszel meta-analysis on plaque index, gingival index, pocket depth and clinical attachment loss. Results Three publications were selected for the systematic review and 2 for the meta-analysis. Two studies were from Sudan, and one was from Burina Faso. There was a significant increase in pocket depth (mean difference: 0.31; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.41; N= 274; (p ≤ 0.001) and clinical attachment loss (mean difference: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.75; N= 274; (p ≤ 0.001) in participants with rheumatoid arthritis compared to normal controls. Conclusion Findings from these combined studies show a significant relationship between periodontal disease and rheumatoid arthritis with increased periodontal pocket depth and clinical attachment loss. They also highlight the need for additional work especially in the area of associating rheumatoid arthritis with P. gingivalis, the oral microbiome and treating periodontal diseases to help in the management of rheumatoid arthritis.
A colorimetric detection of microRNA-148a in gastric cancer by gold nanoparticle–RNA conjugates

For the early diagnosis of gastric cancer, microRNA-148a (miRNA-148a) as a promising biomarker is measured by a simple colorimetric biosensor due to its unique surface plasmon resonance (SPR) absorption of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). In the assay system, the sensing probes are facilitated by the conjugation of AuNPs with RNA probes (RNAP) via Au–S bonds, which align in a tail-to-tail fashion onto the target RNA. When miRNA-148a is introduced, a sandwich hybridization reaction is triggered between the AuNP–RNAP conjugates and targets, resulting in changes in the SPR absorption band, microscopic distribution and macroscopic color of the AuNP solution. Following this principle, this colorimetric method is able to quantitatively detect miRNA-148a at nanomolar level with a limit of ∼1.9 nM, and exhibits high sensitivity and selectivity by a low-cost UV–vis spectrometer or even the naked eye. Moreover, the AuNP network materials with a characteristic sharp ‘melting transition’ provide significant guidance for the reusability of DNA or RNA biosensors.
Association between ACE A240T polymorphism and cancer risk: a meta-analysis

Objectives The relationship between the A240T polymorphism in the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene and cancer risk remains controversial. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of relevant studies from the published literature. Methods We comprehensively searched available databases to identify eligible studies on the relationship of ACE A240T polymorphism with cancer risk. We calculated pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) and then evaluated heterogeneity and publication bias. Results Eight case-control studies were identified from five articles. Results showed that the ACE A240T polymorphism was related to cancer risk (AT vs AA: OR 2.14, 95% CI: 1.51–3.04; TT vs AA: OR 1.07, 95% CI: 0.90–1.27; recessive model: OR 0.48, 95% CI: 0.31–0.77; dominant model: OR 2.13, 95% CI: 1.54–2.97). The same conclusion was made for subgroup analysis by race or cancer type. In the subgroup analysis by quality score assessment, the ACE A240T polymorphism contributed to cancer risk in high-quality studies but not in low-quality studies. Conclusion The A240T polymorphism in the ACE gene might be related to the risk of cancer. Nevertheless, large-scale studies should be performed to obtain convincing evidence on the roles of ACE A240T polymorphism on cancer risk.
Reporting Quality Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials in Journal of Neurosurgical Anesthesiology: A Methodological Assessment.

BACKGROUND Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are considered to provide high levels of evidence to optimize decision-making for patient care, although there can be a risk bias in their design, conduct, and analysis. Quality assessment of RCTs is necessary to assess whether they provide reliable results with little bias. MATERIALS AND METHODS We assessed the reporting quality of RCTs published in the Journal of Neurosurgical Anesthesiology (JNA) between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2017 using the Jadad scale, van Tulder scale, and Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias Tool (CCRBT). RESULTS We identified 130 RCTs and 570 original articles. Among the 130 RCTs, 92 (70.8%) presented an appropriate blinding method, and 70 (53.8%) described an appropriate allocation method. For the entire period, the percentages of high-quality reporting articles were 71.5%, 73.1%, and 13.8% in the Jadad scale, van Tulder scale, and CCRBT assessments, respectively. There was an improvement in the van Tulder scale over time (coefficients [95% confidence interval {CI}]=0.08 [0.01-0.15]; P=0.02). Appropriate reporting of allocation in the Jadad scale (coefficients [95% CI]=1.68 [1.28-2.07]; P<0.001) and van Tulder scale (coefficients [95% CI]=2.34 [1.97-2.70]; P<0.001), and reporting of blinding in the Jadad (coefficients [95% CI]=1.09 [0.66-1.52]; P<0.001) and van Tulder scores (coefficients [95% CI]=1.85 [1.45- 2.25]; P<0.001), were associated with high-quality reporting. CONCLUSIONS The ratio of high-quality reporting RCTs in JNA was consistently high compared with other journals. Thorough consideration of allocation concealment during the peer review process can further improve the reporting quality of RCTs in JNA.
The Role of UAE Health Professionals in Maternal and Child Health Policy

The Role of UAE Health Professionals in Maternal and Child Health Policy by Immanuel Azaad Moonesar MQM, University of Wollongong, 2010 Post-Graduate Dip, University of West Indies, 2008 BSc, University of West Indies, 2007 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Services Walden University November 2015 Abstract Maternal and child health (MCH) mortality is a formidable challenge for health systems around the world according to the World Health Organization. Health professionals and practitioners within the United Arab Emirates were studied to determine the extent they were involved in the policy-making process, and the potential impact that analysis may have on new or revised MCH policies. Research on MCH policy-making andMaternal and child health (MCH) mortality is a formidable challenge for health systems around the world according to the World Health Organization. Health professionals and practitioners within the United Arab Emirates were studied to determine the extent they were involved in the policy-making process, and the potential impact that analysis may have on new or revised MCH policies. Research on MCH policy-making and development processes are limited. The Andersen model of healthcare services utilization provides an appropriate framework for this research, enabling the analysis that influences the policy-making process in the area of MCH. Independent variables included nationality, education, work experience, and organizational support, and the dependent variable included policy-making process. The quantitative methodology included the data collection from a sample of 380 health professionals and practitioners. The results of the study revealed statistical correlations where the most significant predictor of policymaking was organizational support, which explained the 42% variation in policy-making. This predictor was followed by nationality and education. The research adds value for decision-makers when considering and evaluating the extent of MCH policy, laws and regulations, current challenges, and strategies. The research findings could positively influence decision makers’ action plan in formulating new guidelines, public policies, and strategies for the development of maternal and child health across the UAE region. Future research should aim to include other factors that may have an influence on the policy-making process. The Role of UAE Health Professionals in Maternal and Child Health Policy by Immanuel Azaad Moonesar MQM, University of Wollongong, 2010 Post-Graduate Dip, University of West Indies, 2008 BSc, University of West Indies, 2007 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Health Services
Proteogenomic approach to UTR peptides identification.

Recent sequencing technologies have highlighted translation of untranslated regions (UTRs) in genomes although it remains unknown whether the translated products persist in a cell. Here we propose a proteogenomic approach to UTR identification at the proteome level, which has been challenging due to the lack of corresponding sequences required for peptide-spectrum matching. We address the challenge with constructing tUTR (translated UTR) database, consisting of all hypothetical sequences that can be translated from UTR by assuming non-AUG initiation at near-cognate start codons and stop codon readthrough. In the analysis of H1299 cell line MS/MS dataset, the tUTR DB-based proteogenomic approach enabled the detection of 52 5'-UTR and 9 3'-UTR peptides from 45 and 9 genes, respectively. The identified UTR peptides were validated via high spectral similarity with their synthetic peptides. The 5'-UTR peptides pointed out alternative initiation sites with non-AUG start codons, which exactly conformed to Kozak contexts of annotated initiation sites. It is also noteworthy that our approach can detect translated amino acid sequences as well as the evidence for UTR translation, while ribosome profiling provides only the translation evidence. For previously reported stop codon readthrough in MDH1 gene, we could confirm the amino acid inserted during the readthrough.
Meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials on vitamin D supplement and cancer incidence and mortality

Abstract Objectives: We aimed to meta-analyze the results of published randomized controlled trials to test the hypothesis that low vitamin D supplement is associated with an increased risk of cancer incidence and mortality. Methods: Randomized controlled trials that explored the association between vitamin D supplement and cancer incidence or mortality as primary outcomes were identified through searching the PubMed and EMBASE. Literature search and data extraction were performed independently and in duplicate. Results: Ten randomized controlled trials pooled in 81362 participants. The incidence rate of cancer was 9.16% (3716 cases) and 9.29% (3799 cases) in vitamin D intervention group and placebo group, respectively, resulting in a nonsignificant relative risk (RR) (95% confidence interval (95% CI)) of 0.99 (0.94–1.03) (P=0.532). The mortality rate of cancer was 2.11% (821 cases) and 2.43% (942 cases) in vitamin D intervention group and placebo group, respectively, resulting in a significant reduction in risk (RR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79–0.95, P=0.003). There was no observable heterogeneity or publication bias. Subgroup analyses revealed that history of cancer, extra use of vitamin D and calcium supplement were potential sources of heterogeneity. Conclusions: Our findings support a beneficial effect of vitamin D supplement on lowering cancer mortality, especially in subpopulations with no history of cancer, extra use of vitamin D, or calcium supplement.
Halogenating Enzymes for Active Agent Synthesis: First Steps Are Done and Many Have to Follow

Halogens can be very important for active agents as vital parts of their binding mode, on the one hand, but are on the other hand instrumental in the synthesis of most active agents. However, the primary halogenating compound is molecular chlorine which has two major drawbacks, high energy consumption and hazardous handling. Nature bypassed molecular halogens and evolved at least six halogenating enzymes: Three kind of haloperoxidases, flavin-dependent halogenases as well as α-ketoglutarate and S-adenosylmethionine (SAM)-dependent halogenases. This review shows what is known today on these enzymes in terms of biocatalytic usage. The reader may understand this review as a plea for the usage of halogenating enzymes for fine chemical syntheses, but there are many steps to take until halogenating enzymes are reliable, flexible, and sustainable catalysts for halogenation.
Prevalence of risk factors of non-communicable diseases in Kerala, India: results of a cross-sectional study

Objective To estimate the prevalence of non-communicable disease (NCD) risk factors in Kerala. Design A community-based, cross-sectional survey. Participants In 2016–2017 a multistage, cluster sample of 12 012 (aged 18–69 years) participants from all 14 districts of Kerala were studied. Main outcome measures NCD risk factors as stipulated in the WHO’s approach to NCD risk factors surveillance were studied. Parameters that were studied included physical activity score, anthropometry, blood pressure (BP), and fasting blood glucose (FBG) and morning urine sample to estimate dietary intake of salt. Results The mean age was 42.5 years (SD=14.8). Abdominal obesity was higher in women (72.6%; 95% CI 70.7 to 74.5) compared with men (39.1%; 95% CI 36.6 to 41.7), and also higher among urban (67.4%; 95% CI 65.0 to 69.7) compared with rural (58.6%; 95% CI 56.6 to 60.5) residents. Current use of tobacco and alcohol in men was 20.3% (95% CI 18.6 to 22.1) and 28.9% (95% CI 26.5 to 31.4), respectively. The estimated daily salt intake was 6.7 g/day. The overall prevalence of raised BP was 30.4% (95% CI 29.1 to 31.7) and raised FBG was 19.2% (95% CI 18.1 to 20.3). Raised BP was higher in men (34.6%; 95% CI 32.6 to 36.7) compared with women (28%; 95% CI 26.4 to 29.4), but was not different between urban (33.1%; 95% CI 31.3 to 34.9) and rural (29.8%; 95% CI 28.3 to 31.3) residents. Only 12.4% of individuals with hypertension and 15.3% of individuals with diabetes were found to have these conditions under control. Only 13.8% of urban and 18.4% of rural residents did not have any of the seven NCD risk factors studied. Conclusion Majority of the participants had more than one NCD risk factor. There was no rural–urban difference in terms of raised BP or raised FBG prevalence in Kerala. The higher rates of NCD risk factors and lower rates of hypertension and diabetes control call for concerted primary and secondary prevention strategies to address the future burden of NCDs.
A Study of Genomic Prediction of 12 Important Traits in the Domesticated Yak (Bos grunniens)

Simple Summary The domesticated yak is among the most important livestock species on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Breeders have the task of developing varieties that provide growth performance and disease resistance. Traditional breeding processes rely on complete family pedigree information and large numbers of data records. However, there are inevitably records that are missing, including incomplete pedigrees and long-term data tracking, resulting in prolonged breeding cycles, reduced breeding efficiency, and the lack of economic benefit. Genome selection (GS), also known as whole genomic selection (WGS), can significantly reduce the selection cycle of quantitative traits and accelerate genetic progression while displaying appropriate prediction accuracy (PA). It combines a reference population and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci rather than pedigrees to estimate the effect of all SNPs. Then breeding values of target traits are predicted. The key for GS is genomic prediction (GP) and an assessment of PA. Abstract The aim of this study was to explore the possibility of applying GP to important economic traits in the domesticated yak, thus providing theoretical support for its molecular breeding. A reference population was constructed consisting of 354 polled yaks, measuring four growth traits and eight hematological traits related to resistance to disease (involved in immune response and phagocytosis). The Illumina bovine HD 770k chip was used to obtain SNP information of all the individuals. With these genotypes and phenotypes, GBLUP, Bayes B and Bayes Cπ methods were used to predict genomic estimated breeding values (GEBV) and assess prediction capability. The correlation coefficient of the association of GEBV with estimated breeding value (EBV) was used as PA for each trait. The prediction accuracy varied from 0.043 to 0.281 for different traits. Each trait displayed similar PAs when using the three methods. Lymphocyte counts (LYM) exhibited the highest predictive accuracy (0.319) during all GP, while chest girth (CG) provided the lowest predictive accuracy (0.043). Our results showed moderate PA in most traits such as body length (0.212) and hematocrit (0.23). Those traits with lower PA could be improved by using SNP chips designed specifically for yak, a better optimized reference group structure, and more efficient statistical algorithms and tools.
Cross-platform Compilers for Functional Languages

Modern software is often designed to run on a virtual machine, such as the JVM or . NET’s CLR. Increasingly, even the web browser is considered a target platform with the Javascript engine as its virtual machine. The choice of programming language for a project is therefore restricted to the languages which target the desired platform. As a result, an important consideration for a programming language designer is the platform to be targetted. For a language to be truly cross-platform, it must not only support different operating systems (e.g. Windows, OSX and Linux) but it must also target different virtual machine environments such as JVM, . NET, Javascript and others. In this paper, I describe how this problem is addressed in the Idris programming language. The overall compilation process involves a number of intermediate representations and Idris exposes an interface to each of these representations, allowing back ends for different target platforms to decide which is most appropriate. I show how to use these representations to retarget Idris for multiple platforms, and further show how to build a generic foreign function interface supporting multiple platforms.
Spatial and Temporal Pattern of Ischemia and Abnormal Vascular Function Following Traumatic Brain Injury

Key Points Question How does 15oxygen positron emission tomography characterization of cerebral physiology after traumatic brain injury inform clinical practice? Findings In this single-center observational cohort study of 68 patients and 27 control participants, early ischemia was common in patients, but hyperemia coexisted in different brain regions. Cerebral blood volume was consistently increased, despite low cerebral blood flow. Meaning Per this analysis, pathophysiologic heterogeneity indicates that bedside physiological monitoring with devices that measure global (jugular venous saturation) or focal (tissue oximetry) brain oxygenation should be interpreted with caution.
Dissemination Strategies: How do they Influence the Uptake of New three Rs Methods across Laboratories and Other Boundaries?

The European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA; 1) organised a workshop in October 2007, to review whether dissemination plays a role in the successful uptake of new Three Rs methods. The main conclusions from the workshop are summarised in this report. There is probably sufficient awareness about the need for the Three Rs, due to societal and legislative pressure and industry requirements. Also, there are many opportunities for gaining funding for research, and an abundance of organisations to provide information on the Three Rs, although these tend to work in isolation. The EPAA workshop identified a gap. This was the absence of a process and/or organisation/institution supporting the postvalidation and implementation of new methods that would help ensure the rapid and widespread uptake of new alternative methods. The case studies presented at the workshop have clearly illustrated that what has been achieved so far is mainly due to the resource and perseverance of personal champions. This is not a very efficient way forward for the future. Since dissemination plays an important role during the post-validation/implementation phase and for regulatory acceptance, the EPAA will see whether the synergy between the dissemination and validation and acceptance work strands can be improved, and will ensure that the regulatory authorities are consulted.
A Qualitative Study on Home Modification of Rural Caregivers for People with Dementia

ABSTRACT This study asserts that in order to enhance functionality of home modification, caregivers need specific training by professionals before environmental changes create confusion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the beliefs and attitudes of caregivers regarding the effects of environments on the independence of a family member with dementia living in the home. Using a phenomenological approach to gather narrative information about caregiving and the home environment, semi-structured interview questions were conducted with six caregivers in a rural Midwestern county. Two main themes emerged from the caregiver perceptions regarding attitudes about the physical environment: (a) change within the home creates confusion in the care recipient; and (b) there are few changes in the home that will increase the independence of a person with dementia. The findings of the study resulted in a deeper understanding of caregivers’ attitudes about the physical environment and their resistance to environmental changes.
Failure mechanisms and ground support applications at Coleman mine, Sudbury Basin

The primary ground control challenges at Coleman mine in the Sudbury Basin are those associated with high stress conditions. The combination of a competent and strong host rock, a relatively weak ore unit and a high horizontal stress regime, produces a wide variety of ground conditions. Depending on mining geometry, observed ground conditions range from highly confined and high stress, to yielded and unconfined. Rockbursting and falls-of-ground have been a significant challenge at Coleman; however, recent design improvements, mining strategies, and ground support practices have significantly reduced incidences and led to improved mining efficiencies. These improvements have strongly relied on seismic monitoring which gives valuable insight to where rock failure is occurring. This paper will highlight conditions observed and ground support strategies utilised at Coleman mine. The interaction between geology, seismicity, mine design, ground support and field observations will be discussed.