23 results on '"Balogun, N"'
Search Results
2. EXPLORING THE PREVALENCE OF INTERNET CRIMES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN A NIGERIAN UNIVERSITY: A CASE STUDY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ILORIN.
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Balogun, N. A., Abdulrahaman, M. D., and Aka, K.
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COMPUTER crimes ,UNDERGRADUATES ,COLLEGE students ,COMPUTER systems ,ADULT education workshops - Abstract
Internet crime, also known as cybercrime, encompasses various illicit activities conducted through computer system and online platforms. It is a global menace that has become a pervasive issue in our contemporary society. This study delves into exploring the prevalence of internet crime among undergraduate students at the University of Ilorin with the view to examine the level of involvement of undergraduate students, identify the underlying factors, the perceived consequences, and potential control measures associated with undergraduates' involvement in internet crime. The study engaged a sample size of 400 undergraduate students, employing a stratified sample technique for comprehensive data collection using a structured questionnaire. The research revealed that the participants acknowledged the prominence of internet crime within their peer group. It uncovered the multifaceted factors contributing to the prevalence of internet crimes. The respondents acknowledged the perceived consequences of undergraduates' involvement in internet crime, encompassing financial mismanagement, expulsion from educational institutions, societal stigma, loss of personal integrity, legal consequences, and limited access to future opportunities. To mitigate this growing concern, respondents recommended various control and combative measures. These encompass the implementation of stringent rules within educational institutions, effective monitoring of students' financial activities, awareness campaigns against internet crime, provision of employment opportunities, engaging experts to address the issue, banning tools facilitating internet crime, and organizing training workshops to enhance legitimate ICT skills and wealth generation. This study sheds light on the pressing need for proactive interventions to curb internet crime among undergraduate students, emphasizing education, awareness, and policy implementation to foster a safer online environment and deter involvement in criminal activities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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3. DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF AN ONLINE TEACHING AND LEARNING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM
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Adedoyin, Adeyinka, primary, Enebe, F. O., additional, Oyekunle, R. A., additional, and Balogun, N. A., additional
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- 2023
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4. Time to diagnosis of Type I or II invasive epithelial ovarian cancers: a multicentre observational study using patient questionnaire and primary care records
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Lim, AWW, Mesher, D, Gentry-Maharaj, A, Balogun, N, Widschwendter, M, Jacobs, I, Sasieni, P, and Menon, U
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- 2016
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5. Isolation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Using Glycerol Density Gradient
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Aimola, I. A., Inuwa, H. M., Nok, A. J., Mamman, A. I., Habila, N., Muhammad, A., Ndidi, U. S., Ignatius, B., Jande, P. L., Oghor, R., Isaac, L. C., and Afolabi-Balogun, N. B.
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- 2014
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6. Optimization of micropropagation protocol for three cotton varieties regenerated from apical shoot
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Afolabi-Balogun N. B., H M Inuwa, P A Adebola, M. T. Bakare-Odunola, ON Ume, and A J Nok
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Sucrose ,Somatic embryogenesis ,food and beverages ,Biology ,Tissue culture ,Horticulture ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,chemistry ,Micropropagation ,Germination ,Shoot ,Botany ,Kinetin ,Cultivar - Abstract
The need for alternative strategies to obtain transgenic cotton via apical shoot was necessitated due to the recalcitrance of cotton regeneration from somatic embryogenesis, this has greatly slowed down the development of transgenic cottons. To this effect, an optimized regeneration system from apical shoot was developed for three varieties of cotton. Ninety-five percent seed surface sterility was observed in seed germination using a combination of hydrogen perioxide and Clorox as sterilizing medium. Highest shoot elongation rate was achieved on MS supplemented with 2.5 mg/L BAP + 0.1% (w/v) AC, rapid shoot growth occurred with kinetin supplemented media. Rooting efficiency of the three improved cultivars of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum), Samcot 9,11 and 13 were optimized using the optimum medium for rooting of difficult-to-root in vitro regenerated shoots of cotton which consist of MS basal salts and modified MS vitamins, supplemented with 3% sucrose, 0.2 mg/L IBA, without activated charcoal. In the end, an improved regeneration protocol with rooting efficiency up to 47% and regeneration rate up to 87% by combining rooting induction, indole acetic acid (IAA) shock and graft technique was developed. Key words: Allium sativum, cotton tissue culture, transgenic plant, optimized regeneration of cotton.
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- 2015
7. ADOPTABILITY OF ELECTRONIC DOCUMENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM IN ILORIN BUSINESSES.
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Balogun, N. A., Raheem, L. A., Abdulrahaman, M. D., and Balogun, U. O.
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DOCUMENT imaging systems ,JUDGMENT sampling ,WORKFLOW software ,INFORMATION modeling - Abstract
Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) is an automated solution that improves organization workflow and competitiveness. Despite the enormous benefits derived from its implementation, some organizations have not exploited the opportunities. This study examines the factors that affect adoption and non-adoption of EDMS. An interpretive research approach was employed through an in-depth interview of IT officers and record managers at some public and private organizations within Ilorin metropolis using purposive sampling technique. The result of the data analysis using deductive coding frame of Atlas revealed some themes that were crosstabulated or mapped with some information systems models. It was revealed that search functionality, reliability, accessibility, and security of EDMS, are the major reasons for adoption, while reasons for non-adoption include vulnerability to attack, high cost of implementation and digital illiteracy of staff members. It was recommended that open source development of the system be encouraged to ensure exclusive adoption by organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2019
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8. Cluster-randomised non-inferiority trial comparing DVD-assisted and traditional genetic counselling in systematic population testing for BRCA1/2 mutations.
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Manchanda, R, Burnell, M, Loggenberg, K, Desai, R, Wardle, J, Sanderson, SC, Gessler, S, Side, L, Balogun, N, Kumar, A, Dorkins, H, Wallis, Y, Chapman, C, Tomlinson, I, Taylor, R, Jacobs, C, Legood, R, Raikou, M, McGuire, A, Beller, U, Menon, U, Jacobs, I, Manchanda, R, Burnell, M, Loggenberg, K, Desai, R, Wardle, J, Sanderson, SC, Gessler, S, Side, L, Balogun, N, Kumar, A, Dorkins, H, Wallis, Y, Chapman, C, Tomlinson, I, Taylor, R, Jacobs, C, Legood, R, Raikou, M, McGuire, A, Beller, U, Menon, U, and Jacobs, I
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: Newer approaches to genetic counselling are required for population-based testing. We compare traditional face-to-face genetic counselling with a DVD-assisted approach for population-based BRCA1/2 testing. METHODS: A cluster-randomised non-inferiority trial in the London Ashkenazi Jewish population. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Ashkenazi Jewish men/women >18 years; exclusion criteria: (a) known BRCA1/2 mutation, (b) previous BRCA1/2 testing and (c) first-degree relative of BRCA1/2 carrier. Ashkenazi Jewish men/women underwent pre-test genetic counselling prior to BRCA1/2 testing in the Genetic Cancer Prediction through Population Screening trial (ISRCTN73338115). Genetic counselling clinics (clusters) were randomised to traditional counselling (TC) and DVD-based counselling (DVD-C) approaches. DVD-C involved a DVD presentation followed by shorter face-to-face genetic counselling. Outcome measures included genetic testing uptake, cancer risk perception, increase in knowledge, counselling time and satisfaction (Genetic Counselling Satisfaction Scale). Random-effects models adjusted for covariates compared outcomes between TC and DVD-C groups. One-sided 97.5% CI was used to determine non-inferiority. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: relevance, satisfaction, adequacy, emotional impact and improved understanding with the DVD; cost-minimisation analysis for TC and DVD-C approaches. RESULTS: 936 individuals (clusters=256, mean-size=3.6) were randomised to TC (n=527, clusters=134) and DVD-C (n=409, clusters=122) approaches. Groups were similar at baseline, mean age=53.9 (SD=15) years, women=66.8%, men=33.2%. DVD-C was non-inferior to TC for increase in knowledge (d=-0.07; lower 97.5% CI=-0.41), counselling satisfaction (d=-0.38, 97.5% CI=1.2) and risk perception (d=0.08; upper 97.5% CI=3.1). Group differences and CIs did not cross non-inferiority margins. DVD-C was equivalent to TC for uptake of genetic testing (d=-3%; lower/upper 97.5% CI -7.9%/1.7%) and superior for counselling tim
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- 2016
9. Plasmid profile of Staphylococcus aureus from orthopaedic patients in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital Zaria, Nigeria
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Obajuluwa, A F, primary, Olayinka, B O, additional, Adeshina, G O, additional, Onaolapo, J A, additional, and Afolabi Balogun, N B, additional
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- 2015
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10. Time to diagnosis of Type I or II invasive epithelial ovarian cancers: a multicentre observational study using patient questionnaire and primary care records
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Lim, AWW, primary, Mesher, D, additional, Gentry‐Maharaj, A, additional, Balogun, N, additional, Widschwendter, M, additional, Jacobs, I, additional, Sasieni, P, additional, and Menon, U, additional
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- 2015
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11. Isolation of Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Using Glycerol Density Gradient
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Aimola, I. A., primary, Inuwa, H. M., additional, Nok, A. J., additional, Mamman, A. I., additional, Habila, N., additional, Muhammad, A., additional, Ndidi, U. S., additional, Ignatius, B., additional, Jande, P. L., additional, Oghor, R., additional, Isaac, L. C., additional, and Afolabi-Balogun, N. B., additional
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- 2013
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12. Declined presentation
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Aimola, Idowu, primary, Inuwa, H., additional, Nok, A., additional, Mamman, A., additional, Habila, N., additional, Muhammad, A., additional, Ndidi, U., additional, Ignatius, B., additional, Jande, P., additional, Oghor, R., additional, and Afolabi-Balogun, N., additional
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- 2013
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13. Distorted chemosensory perception and female sex associate with persistent smell and/or taste loss in people with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies: a community based cohort study investigating clinical course and resolution of acute smell and/or taste loss in people with and without SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in London, UK.
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Makaronidis J, Firman C, Magee CG, Mok J, Balogun N, Lechner M, Carnemolla A, and Batterham RL
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- Adult, Cohort Studies, Female, Humans, Immunoglobulin M blood, London, Male, Middle Aged, Olfaction Disorders diagnosis, SARS-CoV-2, Sex Factors, Smell, Surveys and Questionnaires, Treatment Outcome, Ageusia etiology, Antibodies, Viral blood, COVID-19 complications, Olfaction Disorders etiology
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Background: Loss of smell and/or taste are cardinal symptoms of COVID-19. 'Long-COVID', persistence of symptoms, affects around one fifth of people. However, data regarding the clinical resolution of loss of smell and/or taste are lacking. In this study we assess smell and taste loss resolution at 4-6 week follow-up, aim to identify risk factors for persistent smell loss and describe smell loss as a feature of long-COVID in a community cohort in London with known SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM antibody status. We also compare subjective and objective smell assessments in a subset of participants., Methods: Four hundred sixty-seven participants with acute loss of smell and/or taste who had undergone SARS-CoV-2 IgG/IgM antibody testing 4-6 weeks earlier completed a follow-up questionnaire about resolution of their symptoms. A subsample of 50 participants completed an objective olfactory test and results were compared to subjective smell evaluations., Results: People with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies with an acute loss of sense of smell and taste were significantly less likely to recover their sense of smell/taste than people who were seronegative (smell recovery: 57.7% vs. 72.1%, p = 0.027. taste recovery 66.2% vs. 80.3%, p = 0.017). In SARS-CoV-2 positive participants, a higher percentage of male participants reported full resolution of smell loss (72.8% vs. 51.4%; p < 0.001) compared to female participants, who were almost 2.5-times more likely to have ongoing smell loss after 4-6 weeks (OR 2.46, 95%CI 1.47-4.13, p = 0.001). Female participants with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and unresolved smell loss and unresolved taste loss were significantly older (> 40 years) than those who reported full resolution. Participants who experienced parosmia reported lower smell recovery rates and participants with distorted taste perception lower taste recovery rates. Parosmia had a significant association to unresolved smell loss (OR 2.47, 95%CI 1.54-4.00, p < 0.001)., Conclusion: Although smell and/or taste loss are often transient manifestations of COVID-19, 42% of participants had ongoing loss of smell, 34% loss of taste and 36% loss of smell and taste at 4-6 weeks follow-up, which constitute symptoms of 'long-COVID'. Females (particularly > 40 years) and people with a distorted perception of their sense of smell/taste are likely to benefit from prioritised early therapeutic interventions., Trials Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04377815 Date of registration: 23/04/2020.
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- 2021
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14. Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in people with an acute loss in their sense of smell and/or taste in a community-based population in London, UK: An observational cohort study.
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Makaronidis J, Mok J, Balogun N, Magee CG, Omar RZ, Carnemolla A, and Batterham RL
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- Adult, Betacoronavirus, COVID-19, COVID-19 Testing, Clinical Laboratory Techniques, Coronavirus Infections diagnosis, Coronavirus Infections immunology, Female, Humans, Immunoglobulin G blood, Immunoglobulin M blood, London, Male, Middle Aged, Pandemics, Pneumonia, Viral immunology, Point-of-Care Testing, SARS-CoV-2, Seroconversion, Seroepidemiologic Studies, Text Messaging, Antibodies, Viral blood, Coronavirus Infections complications, Olfaction Disorders virology, Pneumonia, Viral complications, Taste Disorders virology
- Abstract
Background: Loss of smell and taste are commonly reported symptoms associated with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19); however, the seroprevalence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies in people with acute loss of smell and/or taste is unknown. The study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in a community-based population with acute loss of smell and/or taste and to compare the frequency of COVID-19 associated symptoms in participants with and without SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. It also evaluated whether smell or taste loss are indicative of COVID-19 infection., Methods and Findings: Text messages, sent via primary care centers in London, United Kingdom, invited people with loss of smell and/or taste in the preceding month, to participate. Recruitment took place between 23 April 2020 and 14 May 2020. A total of 590 participants enrolled via a web-based platform and responded to questions about loss of smell and taste and other COVID-19-related symptoms. Mean age was 39.4 years (SD ± 12.0) and 69.1% (n = 392) of participants were female. A total of 567 (96.1%) had a telemedicine consultation during which their COVID-19-related symptoms were verified and a lateral flow immunoassay test that detected SARS-CoV-2 immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies was undertaken under medical supervision. A total of 77.6% of 567 participants with acute smell and/or taste loss had SARS-CoV-2 antibodies; of these, 39.8% (n = 175) had neither cough nor fever. New loss of smell was more prevalent in participants with SARS-CoV-2 antibodies, compared with those without antibodies (93.4% versus 78.7%, p < 0.001), whereas taste loss was equally prevalent (90.2% versus 89.0%, p = 0.738). Seropositivity for SARS-CoV-2 was 3 times more likely in participants with smell loss (OR 2.86; 95% CI 1.27-6.36; p < 0.001) compared with those with taste loss. The limitations of this study are the lack of a general population control group, the self-reported nature of the smell and taste changes, and the fact our methodology does not take into account the possibility that a population subset may not seroconvert to develop SARS-CoV-2 antibodies post-COVID-19., Conclusions: Our findings suggest that recent loss of smell is a highly specific COVID-19 symptom and should be considered more generally in guiding case isolation, testing, and treatment of COVID-19., Trials Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04377815., Competing Interests: The authors have declared that no competing interests exist.
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- 2020
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15. Cluster-randomised non-inferiority trial comparing DVD-assisted and traditional genetic counselling in systematic population testing for BRCA1/2 mutations.
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Manchanda R, Burnell M, Loggenberg K, Desai R, Wardle J, Sanderson SC, Gessler S, Side L, Balogun N, Kumar A, Dorkins H, Wallis Y, Chapman C, Tomlinson I, Taylor R, Jacobs C, Legood R, Raikou M, McGuire A, Beller U, Menon U, and Jacobs I
- Subjects
- Female, Genetic Counseling methods, Genetic Testing methods, Humans, Jews genetics, Male, Middle Aged, Risk Assessment, Risk Factors, BRCA1 Protein genetics, BRCA2 Protein genetics, Mutation genetics
- Abstract
Background: Newer approaches to genetic counselling are required for population-based testing. We compare traditional face-to-face genetic counselling with a DVD-assisted approach for population-based BRCA1/2 testing., Methods: A cluster-randomised non-inferiority trial in the London Ashkenazi Jewish population., Inclusion Criteria: Ashkenazi Jewish men/women >18 years; exclusion criteria: (a) known BRCA1/2 mutation, (b) previous BRCA1/2 testing and (c) first-degree relative of BRCA1/2 carrier. Ashkenazi Jewish men/women underwent pre-test genetic counselling prior to BRCA1/2 testing in the Genetic Cancer Prediction through Population Screening trial (ISRCTN73338115). Genetic counselling clinics (clusters) were randomised to traditional counselling (TC) and DVD-based counselling (DVD-C) approaches. DVD-C involved a DVD presentation followed by shorter face-to-face genetic counselling. Outcome measures included genetic testing uptake, cancer risk perception, increase in knowledge, counselling time and satisfaction (Genetic Counselling Satisfaction Scale). Random-effects models adjusted for covariates compared outcomes between TC and DVD-C groups. One-sided 97.5% CI was used to determine non-inferiority., Secondary Outcomes: relevance, satisfaction, adequacy, emotional impact and improved understanding with the DVD; cost-minimisation analysis for TC and DVD-C approaches., Results: 936 individuals (clusters=256, mean-size=3.6) were randomised to TC (n=527, clusters=134) and DVD-C (n=409, clusters=122) approaches. Groups were similar at baseline, mean age=53.9 (SD=15) years, women=66.8%, men=33.2%. DVD-C was non-inferior to TC for increase in knowledge (d=-0.07; lower 97.5% CI=-0.41), counselling satisfaction (d=-0.38, 97.5% CI=1.2) and risk perception (d=0.08; upper 97.5% CI=3.1). Group differences and CIs did not cross non-inferiority margins. DVD-C was equivalent to TC for uptake of genetic testing (d=-3%; lower/upper 97.5% CI -7.9%/1.7%) and superior for counselling time (20.4 (CI 18.7 to 22.2) min reduction (p<0.005)). 98% people found the DVD length and information satisfactory. 85-89% felt it improved their understanding of risks/benefits/implications/purpose of genetic testing. 95% would recommend it to others. The cost of genetic counselling for DVD-C=£7787 and TC=£17 307. DVD-C resulted in cost savings=£9520 (£14/volunteer)., Conclusions: DVD-C is an effective, acceptable, non-inferior, time-saving and cost-efficient alternative to TC., Trial Registration Number: ISRCTN 73338115., (Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/)
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- 2016
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16. Time to diagnosis of Type I or II invasive epithelial ovarian cancers: a multicentre observational study using patient questionnaire and primary care records.
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Lim A, Mesher D, Gentry-Maharaj A, Balogun N, Widschwendter M, Jacobs I, Sasieni P, and Menon U
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- Aged, Aged, 80 and over, Carcinoma, Ovarian Epithelial, Delayed Diagnosis, Early Detection of Cancer, Female, Humans, Medical Records, Middle Aged, Neoplasm Grading, Neoplasm Staging, Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial diagnosis, Ovarian Neoplasms diagnosis, Retrospective Studies, Surveys and Questionnaires, Symptom Assessment, Time Factors, Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial pathology, Ovarian Neoplasms pathology, Primary Health Care, Referral and Consultation
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Objective: To compare time to diagnosis of the typically slow-growing Type I (low-grade serous, low-grade endometrioid, mucinous, clear cell) and the more aggressive Type II (high-grade serous, high-grade endometrioid, undifferentiated, carcinosarcoma) invasive epithelial ovarian cancer (iEOC)., Design: Multicentre observational study., Setting: Ten UK gynaecological oncology centres., Population: Women diagnosed with primary EOC between 2006 and 2008., Methods: Symptom data were collected before diagnosis using patient questionnaire and primary-care records. We estimated patient interval (first symptom to presentation) using questionnaire data and diagnostic interval (presentation to diagnosis) using primary-care records. We considered the impact of first symptom, referral and stage on intervals for Type I and Type II iEOC., Main Outcome Measures: Patient and diagnostic intervals., Results: In all, 78% of 60 Type I and 21% of 134 Type II iEOC were early-stage. Intervals were comparable and independent of stage [e.g. median patient interval for Type I: early-stage 0.3 months (interquartile range 0.3-3.0) versus late-stage 0.3 months (interquartile range 0.3-4.5), P = 0.8]. Twenty-seven percent of women with Type I and Type II had diagnostic intervals of at least 9 months. First symptom (questionnaire) was also similar, except for the infrequent abnormal bleeding (Type I 15% versus Type II 4%, P = 0.01). More women with Type I disease (57% versus 41%, P = 0.04) had been referred for suspected gynaecological cancer. Median time from referral to diagnosis was 1.4 months for women with iEOC referred via a 2-week cancer referral to any specialty compared with 2.6 months (interquartile range 2.0-3.7) for women who were referred routinely to gynaecology., Conclusion: Overall, shorter diagnostic delays were seen when a cancer was suspected, even if the primary tumour site was not recognised to be ovarian. Despite differences in carcinogenesis and stage for Type I and Type II iEOC, time to diagnosis and symptoms were similar. Referral patterns were different, implying subtle symptom differences. If symptom-based interventions are to impact on ovarian cancer survival, it is likely to be through reduced volume rather than stage-shift. Further research on histological subtypes is needed., Tweetable Abstract: No difference in time to diagnosis for Type I versus Type II invasive epithelial ovarian cancers., (© 2015 The Authors. BJOG An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.)
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- 2016
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17. Population testing for cancer predisposing BRCA1/BRCA2 mutations in the Ashkenazi-Jewish community: a randomized controlled trial.
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Manchanda R, Loggenberg K, Sanderson S, Burnell M, Wardle J, Gessler S, Side L, Balogun N, Desai R, Kumar A, Dorkins H, Wallis Y, Chapman C, Taylor R, Jacobs C, Tomlinson I, McGuire A, Beller U, Menon U, and Jacobs I
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- Adult, Aged, Anxiety etiology, Decision Support Techniques, Depression etiology, Female, Founder Effect, Genetic Predisposition to Disease, Humans, Male, Middle Aged, Risk Assessment, Risk Factors, Stress, Psychological etiology, Time Factors, BRCA1 Protein genetics, BRCA2 Protein genetics, Early Detection of Cancer methods, Genetic Counseling, Heterozygote, Jews genetics, Mass Screening methods, Mutation, Neoplasms genetics, Neoplasms psychology, Quality of Life
- Abstract
Background: Technological advances raise the possibility of systematic population-based genetic testing for cancer-predisposing mutations, but it is uncertain whether benefits outweigh disadvantages. We directly compared the psychological/quality-of-life consequences of such an approach to family history (FH)-based testing., Methods: In a randomized controlled trial of BRCA1/2 gene-mutation testing in the Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) population, we compared testing all participants in the population screening (PS) arm with testing those fulfilling standard FH-based clinical criteria (FH arm). Following a targeted community campaign, AJ participants older than 18 years were recruited by self-referral after pretest genetic counseling. The effects of BRCA1/2 genetic testing on acceptability, psychological impact, and quality-of-life measures were assessed by random effects regression analysis. All statistical tests were two-sided., Results: One thousand, one hundred sixty-eight AJ individuals were counseled, 1042 consented, 1034 were randomly assigned (691 women, 343 men), and 1017 were eligible for analysis. Mean age was 54.3 (SD = 14.66) years. Thirteen BRCA1/2 carriers were identified in the PS arm, nine in the FH arm. Five more carriers were detected among FH-negative FH-arm participants following study completion. There were no statistically significant differences between the FH and PS arms at seven days or three months on measures of anxiety, depression, health anxiety, distress, uncertainty, and quality-of-life. Contrast tests indicated that overall anxiety (P = .0001) and uncertainty (P = .005) associated with genetic testing decreased; positive experience scores increased (P = .0001); quality-of-life and health anxiety did not change with time. Overall, 56% of carriers did not fulfill clinical criteria for genetic testing, and the BRCA1/2 prevalence was 2.45%., Conclusion: Compared with FH-based testing, population-based genetic testing in Ashkenazi Jews doesn't adversely affect short-term psychological/quality-of-life outcomes and may detect 56% additional BRCA carriers., (© The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press.)
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- 2014
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18. Cost-effectiveness of population screening for BRCA mutations in Ashkenazi jewish women compared with family history-based testing.
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Manchanda R, Legood R, Burnell M, McGuire A, Raikou M, Loggenberg K, Wardle J, Sanderson S, Gessler S, Side L, Balogun N, Desai R, Kumar A, Dorkins H, Wallis Y, Chapman C, Taylor R, Jacobs C, Tomlinson I, Beller U, Menon U, and Jacobs I
- Subjects
- Adult, Aged, Breast Neoplasms genetics, Breast Neoplasms prevention & control, Cost-Benefit Analysis, Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Ovarian Neoplasms genetics, Ovarian Neoplasms prevention & control, Quality of Life, Quality-Adjusted Life Years, Sensitivity and Specificity, United Kingdom, BRCA1 Protein genetics, BRCA2 Protein genetics, Breast Neoplasms economics, Early Detection of Cancer economics, Early Detection of Cancer methods, Genetic Testing economics, Genetic Testing methods, Jews genetics, Mass Screening economics, Mass Screening methods, Mutation, Ovarian Neoplasms economics
- Abstract
Background: Population-based testing for BRCA1/2 mutations detects the high proportion of carriers not identified by cancer family history (FH)-based testing. We compared the cost-effectiveness of population-based BRCA testing with the standard FH-based approach in Ashkenazi Jewish (AJ) women., Methods: A decision-analytic model was developed to compare lifetime costs and effects amongst AJ women in the UK of BRCA founder-mutation testing amongst: 1) all women in the population age 30 years or older and 2) just those with a strong FH (≥10% mutation risk). The model assumes that BRCA carriers are offered risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy and annual MRI/mammography screening or risk-reducing mastectomy. Model probabilities utilize the Genetic Cancer Prediction through Population Screening trial/published literature to estimate total costs, effects in terms of quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs), cancer incidence, incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER), and population impact. Costs are reported at 2010 prices. Costs/outcomes were discounted at 3.5%. We used deterministic/probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) to evaluate model uncertainty., Results: Compared with FH-based testing, population-screening saved 0.090 more life-years and 0.101 more QALYs resulting in 33 days' gain in life expectancy. Population screening was found to be cost saving with a baseline-discounted ICER of -£2079/QALY. Population-based screening lowered ovarian and breast cancer incidence by 0.34% and 0.62%. Assuming 71% testing uptake, this leads to 276 fewer ovarian and 508 fewer breast cancer cases. Overall, reduction in treatment costs led to a discounted cost savings of £3.7 million. Deterministic sensitivity analysis and 94% of simulations on PSA (threshold £20000) indicated that population screening is cost-effective, compared with current NHS policy., Conclusion: Population-based screening for BRCA mutations is highly cost-effective compared with an FH-based approach in AJ women age 30 years and older., (© The Author 2014. Published by Oxford University Press.)
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- 2014
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19. Isolation and characterization of a mannose-binding insecticidal lectin gene from Allium sativum (garlic) and its putative role in insect resistance using bioinformatics tools.
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Afolabi-Balogun NB, Inuwa HM, Ishiyaku MF, Bakare-Odunoola MT, and Nok AJ
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- Amino Acid Sequence, Base Sequence, Computational Biology, Garlic immunology, Mannose-Binding Lectins chemistry, Mannose-Binding Lectins isolation & purification, Models, Molecular, Molecular Sequence Data, Phylogeny, Plant Diseases immunology, Plant Lectins chemistry, Plant Lectins isolation & purification, Protein Structure, Tertiary, Sequence Analysis, DNA, Sequence Homology, Amino Acid, Disease Resistance genetics, Garlic genetics, Mannose-Binding Lectins genetics, Plant Lectins genetics
- Abstract
Monocot mannose-binding lectins (MMBLs) or agglutinins are an extended superfamily of structurally and evolutionarily related proteins. They play important roles in plant defenses. Here we describe the synthesis of full-length cDNA of monocot mannose-binding insecticidal agglutinin isolated from Allium sativum, a traditional herb known to be of great applications in Africa, using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with specific primers designed based on the insecticidal sequence (NCBI primary accession no. AY866499.1). Sequence analysis revealed a 327bp open reading frame (ORF) encoding a putative 108-aa agglutinin precursor with a C-terminal domain. Multiple alignments of BLEC1 amino acids with those of eight other MMBLs revealed three highly conserved domains among them, indicating BLEC1 belongs to a member of the MMBL superfamily. Tertiary structure analysis showed that BLEC1 had three potential equal mannose-binding sites. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that 20 MMBLs including BLEC1 belonged to an extended superfamily. Gene ontology analyses indicate one biological process with GO ID: 0006952 representing defense response, with two secondary IDs GO: 0002217 GO: 0042829. The child terms has both negative and positive regulation some of which include GO: 0002242 defense response to parasitic plant and GO: 0002213 defense response to insect. The cloning and characterization of BLEC1 will enable us to study its potential use in plant genetic engineering in the development of insect resistance plant., (Copyright © 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2012
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20. Investigating the therapeutic potential of a heritage-object focused intervention: a qualitative study.
- Author
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Lanceley A, Noble G, Johnson M, Balogun N, Chatterjee H, and Menon U
- Subjects
- Adult, Attitude to Health, Culture, Female, Humans, Psychotherapy methods, Art, Genital Neoplasms, Female psychology, Object Attachment
- Abstract
This study explores the therapeutic potential of heritage-object handling in nurse-patient encounters with women facing cancer. Ten women participated in an object-focused conversation with a nurse specialist. Sessions were audio-tape recorded and transcribed. Kleinian theory framed the analysis to reveal the individual ways women 'used' the object in the session. Professionally observed heritage-object handling provides an aid to discussion with patients and has potential as an assessment platform for therapeutic work or as an intervention approach in its own right. Further longitudinal controlled trials are needed to evaluate such benefits, particularly given the depth of the talk revealed in this study.
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- 2012
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21. Noninvasive nutritional management of ovarian cancer patients: beyond intestinal obstruction.
- Author
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Balogun N, Forbes A, Widschwendter M, and Lanceley A
- Subjects
- Animals, Cachexia etiology, Cachexia prevention & control, Eating, Female, Humans, Ovarian Neoplasms immunology, Ovarian Neoplasms metabolism, Enteral Nutrition, Malnutrition etiology, Malnutrition therapy, Ovarian Neoplasms complications
- Abstract
Objective: Malnutrition, suffered by more than 50% of patients with ovarian cancer during the course of their disease, significantly compromises the effectiveness of treatment, causes distress, and increases morbidity and mortality. This review outlines the nutritional challenges faced by women with ovarian cancer and evaluates the evidence base for current practice and possible opportunities for intervention in clinical settings., Methods: PubMed and MetaLib databases were searched for literature on nutrition and cancer/ovarian cancer using terms and truncations covering cancer, cachexia, mouse models, malnutrition, and nutrition intervention. MEDLINE and Cochrane databases were separately searched for interventional studies and clinical and randomized controlled trials published in English (UK/United States) that involved oral nutrition and/or supplementation/intervention in ovarian cancer patients., Results: Malnutrition continues to be a significant challenge in ovarian cancer management despite significant improvement in treatment pathways and understanding of metabolic pathways and the role of inflammation. There is little evidence of studies designed to evaluate the impact of additional oral nutrients in this population. Seven studies found compared "early" versus "traditional" postoperative oral feeding after major gynecological/oncological surgery, and 1 study evaluated the impact of nutritional status on survival. The 7 studies found evidence of safety, tolerability, reduction in length of hospitalization, and rapid recovery after early feeding. There is no evidence of benefit of additional oral nutrients in this population., Conclusions: Current guidelines and protocols of nutritional management of ovarian cancer seem to be based on expert opinion. There is need for extensive collaborative evidence for nutritional management decisions made in the treatment of patients. Prospective cohort studies could help evaluate the impact of changes in nutritional status on health/nutritional outcomes, disease recurrence, quality of life, and survival. These would form a basis for well-designed, targeted, randomized controlled trials with specific and controlled nutrients/counseling aimed at preventing rather than treating nutritional complications.
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- 2012
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22. Predictive value of symptoms for ovarian cancer: comparison of symptoms reported by questionnaire, interview, and general practitioner notes.
- Author
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Lim AW, Mesher D, Gentry-Maharaj A, Balogun N, Jacobs I, Menon U, and Sasieni P
- Subjects
- Abdominal Pain etiology, Aged, Anorexia etiology, Carcinoma complications, Carcinoma pathology, Case-Control Studies, Confidence Intervals, Confounding Factors, Epidemiologic, Constipation etiology, Diarrhea etiology, Dyspepsia etiology, Fatigue etiology, Female, Humans, Interviews as Topic, Logistic Models, Low Back Pain etiology, Mass Screening, Middle Aged, Nausea etiology, Neoplasm Staging, Odds Ratio, Ovarian Neoplasms complications, Ovarian Neoplasms pathology, Predictive Value of Tests, Regression Analysis, Self Report, Sensitivity and Specificity, Telephone, Time Factors, Urinary Incontinence, Urge etiology, Uterine Hemorrhage etiology, Vomiting etiology, Weight Loss, Carcinoma diagnosis, Early Detection of Cancer, General Practitioners, Medical Records, Ovarian Neoplasms diagnosis, Surveys and Questionnaires
- Abstract
Background: Because of the poor survival outcomes associated with advanced ovarian cancer, early detection strategies are needed. Although several symptom indices have been described, their relationship with the potential lead time has been poorly documented., Methods: Women aged 50-79 years who had newly diagnosed ovarian cancer (n = 194) and control subjects (n = 268) who attended ovarian cancer screening clinics were included in the analysis. Symptoms and their onset dates were obtained from three sources: a questionnaire (191 case patients and 268 control subjects), telephone interview (111 case patients and 125 control subjects), and general practitioner (GP) notes (171 case patients and 227 control subjects). Data from questionnaires and GP notes were used to derive two new symptom indices (Index 1 and Index 2). Sensitivity and specificity for these new indices and the previously reported Goff index were calculated for the periods of 0-11 and 3-14 months before diagnosis for all three data sources., Results: For each data source and period, the two new symptom indices derived from questionnaire and GP notes were similar both qualitatively (symptoms included) and quantitatively (sensitivity and specificity) to the Goff index. When symptoms that started within 3 months before diagnosis were excluded, sensitivity was decreased for all indices and all data sources (eg, for telephone interviews, sensitivity for the period 0-11 vs 3-14 months before diagnosis: for Index 1 = 91.0% vs 69.4%, difference = 21.6%, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 13.6% to 29.7%; for Index 2 = 91.0% vs 60.4%, difference = 30.6%, 95% CI = 21.7% to 39.6%; and for the Goff index = 75.7% vs 51.4%, difference = 24.3%, 95% CI = 16.0% to 32.7%). Also, the specificity of all indices was consistently decreased for telephone interviews compared with questionnaires and GP notes (eg, 1 - specificity for the period of 3-14 months before diagnosis for telephone interviews vs questionnaires: for Index 1 = 19.2% vs 10.4%, difference = 8.8%, 95% CI = 1.0% to 16.6%; for Index 2 = 14.4% vs 6.7%, difference = 7.7%, 95% CI = 0.9% to 14.5%; and for the Goff Index = 7.2% vs 1.5%, difference = 5.7%, 95% CI = 0.9% to 10.5%)., Conclusions: Previous estimates of index performance have been overly optimistic because they did not take into account the time required to make a diagnosis on the basis of testing in response to symptoms. In addition, the specificity of a symptom index is lower when based on a telephone interview vs questionnaire or GP notes. Thus, the clinical utility of a symptom index depends on precisely how it is used and how index-positive women are managed.
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- 2012
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23. Recruitment of newly diagnosed ovarian cancer patients proved challenging in a multicentre biobanking study.
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Balogun N, Gentry-Maharaj A, Wozniak EL, Lim A, Ryan A, Ramus SJ, Ford J, Burnell M, Widschwendter M, Gessler SF, Gayther SA, Jacobs IJ, and Menon U
- Subjects
- Aged, Female, Humans, Middle Aged, Ovarian Neoplasms psychology, Quality of Life psychology, Registries, Surveys and Questionnaires, United Kingdom, Ovarian Neoplasms pathology, Patient Compliance statistics & numerical data, Patient Selection, Tissue Banks statistics & numerical data
- Abstract
Objective: To explore the challenges of recruiting ovarian cancer patients and healthy controls to a cancer biobanking study., Study Design and Setting: The study was set up in gynecological cancer centers in 10 National Health Service trusts across the United Kingdom. Women were approached if they were undergoing investigations/awaiting treatment for ovarian cancer, had a previous diagnosis of ovarian cancer, or were attending for annual screening in an ovarian cancer screening trial. Those who consented completed a detailed epidemiologic questionnaire, provided blood and tissue samples if appropriate., Results: The overall proportion of those recruited compared with the expected targets was 76.4% for healthy controls, 86.0% for old cases, and 46.9% for new cases. Only 4 of 10 (40%) centers recruited over 50% of their target for new cases. Unwillingness to participate was reported as primarily because of patients being too unwell, wanting to focus only on their treatment, or having insufficient time because of conflicting medical appointments. Concerns about use of personal data or tissue and blood samples for genetic research and lack of direct benefit were reported as significant challenges to recruitment., Conclusion: When setting recruitment targets for patients undergoing investigations or awaiting treatment for cancer (new cases), it is important to consider lower response rates because of various patient, logistical, and trial-specific challenges., (Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)
- Published
- 2011
- Full Text
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