scholarly journals Enrichment of Clinically Relevant Organisms in Spontaneous Preterm-Delivered Placentas and Reagent Contamination across All Clinical Groups in a Large Pregnancy Cohort in the United Kingdom

2018 ◽  
Vol 84 (14) ◽  
Author(s):  
Lydia J. Leon ◽  
Ronan Doyle ◽  
Ernest Diez-Benavente ◽  
Taane G. Clark ◽  
Nigel Klein ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Preterm Birth ◽  
Preterm Births ◽  
Convincing Evidence ◽  
Rrna Gene ◽  
Spontaneous Preterm Birth ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Pregnancy Cohort ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Adverse Pregnancy

ABSTRACT In this study, differences in the placental microbiota from term and preterm deliveries in a large pregnancy cohort in the United Kingdom were studied by using 16S-targeted amplicon sequencing. The impacts of contamination from DNA extraction, PCR reagents, and the delivery itself were also examined. A total of 400 placental samples from 256 singleton pregnancies were analyzed, and differences between spontaneous preterm-, nonspontaneous preterm-, and term-delivered placentas were investigated. DNA from recently delivered placentas was extracted, and screening for bacterial DNA was carried out by using targeted sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene on the Illumina MiSeq platform. Sequenced reads were analyzed for the presence of contaminating operational taxonomic units (OTUs) identified via sequencing of negative extraction and PCR-blank samples. Differential abundances and between-sample (beta) diversity metrics were then compared. A large proportion of the reads sequenced from the extracted placental samples mapped to OTUs that were also found for negative extractions. Striking differences in the compositions of samples were also observed, according to whether the placenta was delivered abdominally or vaginally, providing strong circumstantial evidence for delivery contamination as an important contributor to observed microbial profiles. When OTU- and genus-level abundances were compared between the groups of interest, a number of organisms were enriched in the spontaneous preterm-delivery cohort, including organisms that have been associated previously with adverse pregnancy outcomes, specifically Mycoplasma spp. and Ureaplasma spp. However, analyses of the overall community structure did not reveal convincing evidence for the existence of a reproducible “preterm placental microbiome.” IMPORTANCE Preterm birth is associated with both psychological and physical disabilities and is the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality worldwide. Infection is known to be an important cause of spontaneous preterm birth, and recent research has implicated variation in the “placental microbiome” in the risk of preterm birth. Consistent with data from previous studies, the abundances of certain clinically relevant species differed between spontaneous preterm- and nonspontaneous preterm- or term-delivered placentas. These results support the view that a proportion of spontaneous preterm births have an intrauterine-infection component. However, an additional observation from this study was that a substantial proportion of sequenced reads were contaminating reads rather than DNA from endogenous, clinically relevant species. This observation warrants caution in the interpretation of sequencing outputs from low-biomass samples such as the placenta.

scholarly journals Clinical Validation of a Proteomic Biomarker Threshold for Increased Risk of Spontaneous Preterm Birth and Associated Clinical Outcomes: A Replication Study

2021 ◽  
Vol 10 (21) ◽  
pp. 5088
Author(s):  
Julja Burchard ◽  
Ashoka D. Polpitiya ◽  
Angela C. Fox ◽  
Todd L. Randolph ◽  
Tracey C. Fleischer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Preterm Birth ◽  
Preterm Births ◽  
Neonatal Morbidity ◽  
Fold Increase ◽  
The United States ◽  
Independent Study ◽  
Adverse Outcomes ◽  
Spontaneous Preterm Birth ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Adverse Pregnancy

Preterm births are the leading cause of neonatal death in the United States. Previously, a spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) predictor based on the ratio of two proteins, IBP4/SHBG, was validated as a predictor of sPTB in the Proteomic Assessment of Preterm Risk (PAPR) study. In particular, a proteomic biomarker threshold of −1.37, corresponding to a ~two-fold increase or ~15% risk of sPTB, significantly stratified earlier deliveries. Guidelines for molecular tests advise replication in a second independent study. Here we tested whether the significant association between proteomic biomarker scores above the threshold and sPTB, and associated adverse outcomes, was replicated in a second independent study, the Multicenter Assessment of a Spontaneous Preterm Birth Risk Predictor (TREETOP). The threshold significantly stratified subjects in PAPR and TREETOP for sPTB (p = 0.041, p = 0.041, respectively). Application of the threshold in a Kaplan–Meier analysis demonstrated significant stratification in each study, respectively, for gestational age at birth (p < 001, p = 0.0016) and rate of hospital discharge for both neonate (p < 0.001, p = 0.005) and mother (p < 0.001, p < 0.001). Above the threshold, severe neonatal morbidity/mortality and mortality alone were 2.2 (p = 0.0083,) and 7.4-fold higher (p = 0.018), respectively, in both studies combined. Thus, higher predictor scores were associated with multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes.

scholarly journals Pseudomonas kirkiae sp. nov., a novel species isolated from oak in the United Kingdom, and phylogenetic considerations of the genera Pseudomonas, Azotobacter and Azomonas

2020 ◽  
Vol 70 (4) ◽  
pp. 2426-2434 ◽  
Author(s):  
Victoria Bueno-Gonzalez ◽  
Carrie Brady ◽  
Sandra Denman ◽  
Joël Allainguillaume ◽  
Dawn Arnold
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Type Species ◽  
Novel Species ◽  
Phylogenetic Analyses ◽  
16S Rrna Gene Sequencing ◽  
Rrna Gene ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Link Type ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Species Comparisons

As the current episode of Acute Oak Decline (AOD) continues to affect native British oak in the United Kingdom, ongoing isolations from symptomatic and healthy oak have yielded a large Pseudomonas species population. These strains could be divided into taxa representing three potential novel species. Recently, two of these taxa were described as novel Pseudomonas species in the Pseudomonas fluorescens lineage. Here, we demonstrate using a polyphasic approach that the third taxon represents another novel Pseudomonas species. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing assigned the strains to the Pseudomonas aeruginosa lineage, while multilocus sequence analysis (based on partial gyrB, rpoB and rpoD sequences) placed the 13 strains in a single cluster on the border of the Pseudomonas stutzeri group. Whole genome intra-species comparisons (based on average nucleotide identity and in silico DNA–DNA hybridization) confirmed that the strains belong to a single taxon, while the inter-species comparisons with closest phylogenetic relatives yielded similarity values below the accepted species threshold. Therefore, we propose these strains as a novel species, namely Pseudomonas kirkiae sp. nov., with the type strain FRB 229T (P4CT=LMG 31089T=NCPPB 4674T). The phylogenetic analyses performed in this study highlighted the difficulties in assigning novel species to the genus Pseudomonas due to its polyphyletic nature and close relationship to the genus Azotobacter . We further propose that a thorough taxonomic re-evaluation of the genus Pseudomonas is essential and should be performed in the near future.

scholarly journals Spontaneous Preterm Birth: Is Prevention with Aspirin Possible?

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Richard Berger ◽  
Ioannis Kyvernitakis ◽  
Holger Maul
Keyword(s):  
Preterm Birth ◽  
Low Dose ◽  
Randomized Study ◽  
Preterm Births ◽  
Spontaneous Preterm Birth ◽  
Dose Aspirin ◽  
Nulliparous Women ◽  
Low Dose Aspirin ◽  
Secondary Analyses ◽  
Double Blinded

Abstract Background The rate of preterm births in Germany is 8.6%, which is very high compared to other European countries. As preterm birth contributes significantly to perinatal morbidity and mortality rates, the existing prevention strategies need to be optimized and expanded further. About ⅔ of all women with preterm birth have preterm labor or premature rupture of membranes. They are bracketed together under the term “spontaneous preterm birth” as opposed to iatrogenic preterm birth, for example as a consequence of preeclampsia or fetal growth retardation. Recent studies suggest that low-dose aspirin does not just reduce the rate of iatrogenic preterm births but can also further reduce the rate of spontaneous preterm births. This review article presents the current state of knowledge. Method A selective literature search up until April 2020 was done in PubMed, using the terms “randomized trial”, “randomized study”, “spontaneous preterm birth”, and “aspirin”. Results Secondary analyses of prospective randomized studies on the prevention of preeclampsia with low-dose aspirin show that this intervention also significantly reduced the rate of spontaneous preterm births in both high-risk and low-risk patient populations. The results of the ASPIRIN trial, a prospective, randomized, double-blinded multicenter study carried out in six developing countries, also point in this direction, with the figures showing that the daily administration of 81 mg aspirin starting before 14 weeks of gestation lowered the preterm birth rate of nulliparous women without prior medical conditions by around 11% (11.6 vs. 13.1%; RR 0.89; 95% CI: 0.81 – 0.98, p = 0.012). Conclusion Further studies on this issue are urgently needed. If these confirm the currently available results, then it would be worth discussing whether general aspirin prophylaxis for all pregnant women starting at the latest in 12 weeks of gestation is indicated.

scholarly journals Magnitude of spontaneous preterm birth and its associated factors among preterm birth in NICU wards in Asella Teaching and Referral Hospital, Asella, Oromia, Ethiopia

2021 ◽  
Vol 49 (8) ◽  
pp. 030006052110346
Author(s):  
Techane Sisay Tuji ◽  
Addisu Dabi Wake ◽  
Gezahegn Badeg Adere ◽  
Aselefu Beka Wedajo ◽  
Batu Dekeba Obole ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Risk Factors ◽  
Preterm Birth ◽  
Healthcare Providers ◽  
Preterm Births ◽  
Cross Sectional Study ◽  
Spontaneous Preterm Birth ◽  
Related Factors ◽  
Cross Sectional ◽  
Bivariate Logistic Regression ◽  
Associated Risk Factors

Objective To assess the prevalence of spontaneous preterm births and to identify the associated risk factors. Methods This single-centre cross-sectional study enrolled women that experienced a preterm birth as registered on the neonatal log-book between 30 December 2019 and 30 December 2020. A pre-tested structured checklist was used to collect data (sociodemographic characteristics; obstetric-related factors; medical history; and pregnancy-related factors). Bivariate logistic regression analyses were applied to identify factors associated with spontaneous preterm birth. A multivariate model identified significant independent risk factors. Results A total of 310 patients participated in the study. The prevalence of spontaneous preterm birth in this population was 67.1% (208 of 310; 95% confidence interval [CI] 61.5, 71.9). Patients without a partner (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.470, 95% CI 1.23, 4.42), patients residing in a rural area (AOR = 2.51, 95% CI 1.123, 5.513) and those with a history of PIH during their current pregnancy (AOR = 0.104, 95% CI 0.053, 0.014) were significantly more likely to have a spontaneous preterm birth. Conclusion The prevalence of spontaneous preterm birth in in this study was high. Healthcare providers and all stakeholders should focus on screening pregnant women at the risk of spontaneous preterm birth.

Consumers' preferences for intrinsic and extrinsic product attributes of plant-based eggs: an exploratory study in the United Kingdom and Italy

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Agnese Rondoni ◽  
Elena Millan ◽  
Daniele Asioli
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Product Attributes ◽  
Product Failure ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Analysis Of Results ◽  
Method Of Production ◽  
Practical Implications

PurposePlant-based eggs have recently been developed to provide consumers with a healthier, animal-friendlier and more sustainable alternative to conventional eggs. The purpose of this paper is to investigate intrinsic and extrinsic attribute preferences for three prototypes of plant-based egg, namely the liquid, powder and egg-shaped.Design/methodology/approachNine focus groups in the United Kingdom and nine in Italy were conducted, with a total of 180 participants. A thematic analysis of results was conducted.FindingsIn terms of intrinsic product attributes, consumers' preferences for colour, shape, taste, ingredients, nutrients, method of production and shelf-life for plant-based eggs were revealed. Regarding the extrinsic attributes, preferences for price, packaging, country of origin and product naming emerged. Similarities and differences between consumers from the two countries are also discussed. Differences in preferences also emerged between vegan and non-vegan consumers.Research limitations/implicationsThis study adds to the existing knowledge on consumers' preferences for new plant-based food alternatives and identifies future quantitative approaches based on qualitative findings.Practical implicationsResults from this study can assist plant-based egg manufacturers in improving their products in line with consumers' expectations, which may help reducing risk of product failure.Originality/valueThis study is the first to investigate consumers' preferences, expectations and needs for new food products like plant-based eggs and provides information that can be practically applied by manufacturers, as well as suggestions for future research.

London will deepen engagement with South-east Asia

2021 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
East Asia ◽  
South East Asia ◽  
Aircraft Carrier ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Defence Cooperation

Significance The United Kingdom eyes a strategic tilt to the Indo-Pacific, with South-east Asia a key focus because of its economic dynamism and the convening power of ASEAN. The aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth will deploy to the Indo-Pacific for six months later this year. Impacts The United Kingdom’s view of China as a systemic challenger makes a trade pact between the two countries unlikely. UK efforts to conclude a trade deal with India will be frustrated by Delhi’s protectionist approach. London will pursue closer defence cooperation with Tokyo.

Europe’s strategic focus on the Indo-Pacific will grow

2021 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Arms Sales ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Eu Countries ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Strategic Focus ◽  
Middle Powers

Significance All three countries are united by the objective to mitigate US-China rivalry by promoting multilateralism and engagement among middle powers, while at the same time using these to contain China’s behaviour and ambitions in the region. Impacts Engaging with like-minded middle powers in the Indo-Pacific will help Europe distance itself from Washington’s tougher policy on China. The Indo-Pacific vision will result in deepening defence partnerships with India, plus Australia and Japan, such as through arms sales. The Indo-Pacific will be an area of potential future collaboration and cooperation between the United Kingdom and EU countries.

EU signals flexibility over Northern Ireland protocol

2021 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
United Kingdom ◽  
Northern Ireland ◽  
European Commission ◽  
Legal Action ◽  
Content Type ◽  
High Profile ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Notable Change ◽  
The Uk

Significance However, there has been a notable change in the EU’s tone. In July, the European Commission unexpectedly paused legal action against the United Kingdom for an alleged breach of the NIP, and when London announced on September 6 that it was suspending key elements indefinitely, the EU’s response was muted. Impacts France is so deeply aggrieved over AUKUS that any further UK breaches of the Withdrawal Agreement could prompt a bad-tempered response. The possibility of an early assembly election in Northern Ireland would complicate EU-UK attempts to resolve the NIP issue. The exclusion of high profile, pro-EU politicians in the UK cabinet reshuffle shows how important the Brexit agenda remains for London.

A cross-national analysis of PhD models

2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (3) ◽  
pp. 233-245
Author(s):  
Yasmine Dominguez-Whitehead ◽  
Felix Maringe
Keyword(s):  
United States ◽  
South Africa ◽  
United Kingdom ◽  
The United States ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The United Kingdom ◽  
Supervision Models ◽  
Phd Supervision ◽  
National Analysis ◽  
Cross National

PurposeThis paper provides a cross-national analysis of PhD supervision models, milestones and examination procedures in order to compare PhD programs and their practices.Design/methodology/approachA comparative approach is employed, which systematically interrogates PhD supervision models, milestones and examination procedures in the United Kingdom, South Africa and the United States via a comprehensive review of the practices and literature.FindingsThe findings indicate the ramifications of the different approaches and highlight the benefits and drawbacks associated with the different models.Originality/valueBy making explicit the dominant supervision models, milestones and examination procedures that exist in the United Kingdom, South Africa and the United States, the authors shed light on the somewhat obscure path to earning a PhD degree.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document