bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
How Are We Evaluating the Cost-Effectiveness of Companion Biomarkers for Targeted Cancer Therapies? A Systematic Review
Authors: Seo Mikyung Kelly , Cairns John 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background Despite the increasing economic assessment of biomarker-guided therapies, no clear agreement exists whether existing methods are sufficient or whether different methods might produce different cost-effectiveness results. This study aims to examine current practices of modeling companion biomarkers when assessing the cost-effectiveness of targeted cancer therapies. It highlights the challenges in methods and data requirements faced in the evaluation of biomarker tests which do not necessarily arise with the evaluation of pharmaceutical drugs.Methods A literature search was performed using Medline, Embase, EconLit, Cochrane library. Articles published from 2014 to 2018 were searched. Economic evaluations on biomarker-guided therapies with companion diagnostics in cancer were searched. Preferred Reporting Items of Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines followed. Studies were selected by pre-specified eligibility criteria using PICO framework. To make studies more comparable, data were synthesized under ten categories of key areas of methods where consensus deemed lacking.Results Eighteen papers were included in this review. Three out of eighteen studies found to be of good quality regarding incorporating the characteristics of companion biomarkers in economic evaluations. However, many evaluations focused on a pre-selected patient group with a specific biomarker status instead of including all patients with a disease regardless of their biomarker status. Companion biomarker characteristics captured in evaluations were often limited to the cost or the accuracy of the test. Often, only the costs of biomarker testing were modelled. Clinical outcomes or utilities were often difficult to include due to the limited data generated by clinical trials. We found that no consistency and consensus existed to the methods of existing economic evaluations of companion cancer biomarkers for targeted therapies. It was also shown that conflicting cost-effectiveness results were likely depending on what comparator arm was chosen and what comparison structure was designed in the model.Conclusion We found that there was no consistent approach applied in assessing the value of biomarkers and including the characteristics of biomarkers in an economic evaluation of targeted oncology therapies. Currently, many EEs fail to capture the full value of companion biomarkers beyond sensitivity/specificity and cost related to biomarker testing.
Construction of a High-density Genetic Map and Identification of Candidate Genes for Resistance to Fusarium Wilt based on the Resequencing of Recombinant Inbred Line Population in Gossypium Barbadense
Authors: Han Wanli , Zhao Jieyin , Deng Xiaojuan , Gu Aixing , Li Duolu , Wang Yuxiang , Lu Xiaoshuang , Zu Qianli , Chen Qin , Chen Quanjia , Qu Yanying 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Resistance to Fusarium wilt (FW) is of great significance for increasing the yield of Gossypium barbadense. Most published genetic studies on G. barbadense focus on yield and fiber quality traits, while there are few reports on resistance to FW. Results: To understand the genetic basis of cotton resistance to FW, this study used 110 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) of G. barbadense obtained from the parental materials Xinhai 14 and 06-146, and Nannong was used to construct a high-density genetic linkage map. The high-density genetic map was based on the resequencing of 933,845 single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers, and 3627 bins covering 2483.17 cM were finally obtained. The collinearity matched the physical map. A total of 9 QTLs for FW resistance were identified, each QTL explained 4.27-14.92% of the observed phenotypic variation, and qFW-Dt3-1 was identified in at least two environments. According to gene annotation information from multiple databases, promoter homeopathic elements and transcriptome data, 10 candidate genes were screened in a stable QTL interval. qRT-PCR analysis showed that the GOBAR_DD06292 gene was differentially expressed in the roots of the two parents under FW stress and exhibited the same expression trend in the G. barbadense resource materials.Conclusions: These results indicate the importance of the GOBAR_DD06292 gene in FW resistance in G. barbadense and lay a molecular foundation for the analysis of the molecular mechanism of FW in G. barbadense.
Assessment of an Electronic Patient Record System on Discharge Prescribing Errors in a Tertiary University Hospital
Authors: O'Shea Michael , Kennedy Cormac , Relihan Eileen , Harkin Kieran , Hennessy Martina , Barry Michael 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
BackgroundPrescribing error represent a significant source of preventable harm to patients. Prescribing error at discharge, including omission of pre-admission medications (PAM), are particularly harmful as they frequently propagate following discharge. This study assesses the impact of an educational intervention and introduction of an Electronic Patient Record (EPR) in the same centre on omission of PAM at discharge using a pragmatic design. A survey of newly qualified doctors is used to contextualise findings.Methods Discharge prescriptions and discharge summaries were reviewed at discharge, and compared to admission medicine reconciliation, using a paper-based chart system. Discrepancies were noted, using Health Information and Quality Authority guidelines for discharge prescribing. An educational intervention was conducted. Further review of discharge prescriptions and discharge summaries took place. Hospital-wide introduction of an EPR took place. Subsequently, review of discharge summaries and discharge prescriptions was repeated. A survey was administered to qualified doctors, and analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results Omission of PAM as prescribed or discontinued items at discharge occurs frequently. An educational intervention did not significantly change prescribing error rates. EPR introduction did significantly reduce omission of PAM on discharge prescribing, however there was also a reduction in the rate of deliberate discontinuation of PAM at discharge. Survey results demonstrated that multiple sources are required to develop a discharge prescription. Time pressure, access to documentation and lack of admission medicine reconciliation are frequently cited causes of discharge prescribing error.ConclusionThis study verified passive educational interventions alone do not improve discharge prescribing. Introduction of EPR improved discharge prescribing, but negatively impacted deliberate discontinuation of PAM at discharge. This is attributable to reduced access to key sources of information used in formulating discharge prescriptions, and separation of the discontinuation function from the prescribing function on the EPR discharge application.
Softer but tougher: The impact of alloying on defect-free nanoparticles
Authors: Bisht Anuj , koju Raj , Qi Yuanshen , Hickman James , Mishin Yuri , Rabkin Eugen 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
The classic paradigm of physical metallurgy is that the addition of alloying elements to metals increases their strength. It is less known if the solution-hardening can occur in nano-scale objects, and it is totally unknown how alloying can impact the strength of defect-free faceted nanoparticles. Purely metallic defect-free nanoparticles exhibit an ultra-high strength approaching the theoretical limit. Tested in compression, they deform elastically until the nucleation of the first dislocation, after which they collapse into a pancake shape. Here, we show by experiments and atomistic simulations that the alloying of Ni nanoparticles with Co reduces their ultimate strength. This counter-intuitive solution-softening effect is explained by solute-induced local spatial variations of the resolved shear stress, causing premature dislocation nucleation. At the same time, the subsequent deformation of the particle requires more work, making it tougher. The emerging compromise between strength and toughness can make alloy nanoparticles promising candidates for applications.
Adequate Animal Protein Intake Maintains Normal Thyroid Antibody Levels in Pregnant Women With Mild Iodine Deficiency
Authors: Wang Zhengyuan , Shen Jiaying , Song Qi , Cui Xueying , Shi Zehuan , Guo Changyi , Su Jin , Zang Jiajie 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Both of the iodine and animal protein may affect thyroid function. We explored the association between animal protein intake and thyroid antibody status in pregnant women after universal salt iodization.Method: Pregnant women were enrolled by using a multistage, stratified random sampling method. 4,646 eligible participants were interviewed in person with questionnaires physical examination and thyroid antibody test. Results: Only thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TR-Ab) positive rates were different among different animal protein intake groups. The median of urinary iodine concentration (UIC) in thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab) positive groups was higher than the negative group. The median of total protein intake, animal protein intake and UIC in TR-Ab positive group was higher than the negative group. The medians of total protein intake and UIC in TPO-Ab/TG-Ab/TR-Ab positive group were higher than the negative group. The above differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The multivariable logistic regression results showed that insufficient iodine had a negative correlation with TPO-Ab positive and TR-Ab positive (P < 0.05). The middle third and top third animal protein intakes served as protective factors for TR-Ab (coefficient = 0.559, 95% CI = 0.415–0.752; coefficient = 0.0.406, 95% CI = 0.266–0.621) and positive TPO-Ab/TR-Ab/TG-Ab (coefficient = 0.817, 95% CI = 0.687–0.971; coefficient = 0.805, 95% CI= 0.672–0.964). Conclusions: Adequate animal protein intake protects against elevated anti-thyroid antibody levels in pregnant women with mild iodine deficiency.
The Dutch Version of the Oxford Knee Score – Activity and Participation Questionnaire: A Validation Study
Authors: Molder Malou te , Vriezekolk Johanna , Bénard Menno , Heesterbeek Petra 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) tend to be younger and tend to receive TKA at an earlier stage compared to 20 years ago. The Oxford Knee Score – Activity and Participation (OKS-APQ) questionnaire evaluates higher levels of activity and participation, reflecting activity patterns of younger or more active people. The purpose of this study was to translate a Dutch-language version of the OKS-APQ questionnaire, and to validate it in pre- an postoperative TKA patients. Methods: We evaluated the Dutch translation of the OKS-APQ for reliability and validity. Internal consistency, test-retest reliability, factor analysis, construct validity and, floor and ceiling effects were evaluated using quality criteria. The OKS-APQ, the Oxford Knee Score (OKS), the Short Form-36 (SF-36), a Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) for pain and the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS) were assessed in 131 patients, and the OKS-APQ was administered twice in 50 patients after an interval of minimal 2 weeks.Results: Internal consistency (Cronbach α‘s from 0.81 to 0.95) and test-retest reliability (Intraclass Correlation Coefficients (ICCs) from 0.63 – 0.88) were satisfactory to good. The standard Error of Measurements (SEMs) ranged from 8.5 – 12.2 and the Smallest Detectable Changes in individuals (SDCind) ranged from 23.5 – 34.0 (on a scale from 0 to 100). Confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) indices indicated a satisfactory fit of a 1-factor model (Comparative Fit Index (CFI): 0.97, Tucker-Lewis Index (TLI): 0.96, Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA): 0.1, Standardized Root Mean Square Residual (SRMSR): 0.03). Construct validity was supported as >75% of the hypotheses were confirmed and floor effects were observed in preoperative patients. Conclusions: The Dutch translation of the OKS-APQ showed good reliability and validity in the Dutch population, and can be used alongside the OKS in clinical research and clinical practice to discriminate among levels of activity and participation in postoperative patients.
Serum ROBO4 and CLEC14A: Preliminary Evaluation as Diagnostic and Progression Biomarkers in Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Pietrzyk Łukasz , Torres Kamil 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is an important global burden, and the discovery of biomarkers for screening and monitoring is a current challenge. The present study aimed to determine the serum concentration of ROBO4 and CLEC14A in CRC patients and assess the clinical value of these diagnostic and progression biomarkers in CRC. The ROBO4 and CLEC14A levels were measured using ELISA tests. Blood sera were tested in 32 CRC patients and 16 controls at two time points (before and after surgery). The serum concentrations of ROBO4 and CLEC14A were significantly higher in CRC patients than non-cancer controls; the concentrations were already higher in TNM stage I+II CRC patients. The sensitivitiy and specificity of ROBO4 and CLEC14A in distiguishing cancer patients form controls ranged from 71.9% to 100% and from 84.5% to 100%, respectively. The serum ROBO4 concentration was associated with the TNM stage, depth of invasion, and lymph node and distant metastases. No significant relationship was observed between the CLEC14A concentration and the tumor site or the N and M stages. The level of ROBO4 was statistically lower 3 months after the surgery, compared to the level noted prior to the operation. The concentration of CLEC14A decreased in the postoperative period, compared to preoperative one; however, the decline was not statistically significant. Our preliminary study has provided evidence that ROOB4 and CLEC14A seem to be suitable biomarkers for clinical diagnostic purposes. However, ROOB4 appears to be more appropriate for assessment of CRC progression.
Effects of Long-term Nonylphenol Exposure on Myocardial Fibrosis and Cardiac Function in Rats
Authors: Liu Chao , Ni Chengyu , Liu Weichu , Yang Xiaolian , Zhang Renyi , Zhang Jianling , Luo Man , Xu Jie , Yu Jie 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Myocardial fibrosis is a critical pathological basis for the poor prognosis of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have found that myocardial fibrosis is closely associated with exposure to environmental estrogens such as nonylphenol (NP), as a representative of environmental estrogens. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of NP chronic exposure on myocardial fibrosis as well as cardiac structure and function. Forty Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 10): control group (C), low NP dose (0.4 mg/kg, L), medium NP dose (4 mg/kg, M), and high NP dose (40 mg/kg, H) groups. The NP dose groups were gavaged with NP for 180 days. Results: The NP level in the heart of the NP groups was significantly higher than those in the control group (F = 43.658, P < 0.001). Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), creatine kinase (CK), creatine kinase isozyme (CK-MB), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and α-hydroxybutyrate dehydrogenase (α-HBDH) significantly increased in the NP groups compared with the control group (). Histopathological examination of the heart biopsy illustrates that in the medium and high NP groups, the fibrous connective tissue had a disordered and loose gridding shape, muscle fibers had fractured, and muscle fibers were loose with a widened gap. Extensive inflammatory cell infiltration and fibroblast proliferation in the myocardial interstitium were also found. With increasing NP dose, the degree of muscle fiber loosing and disorder became more significant in the NP treatment groups, and the collagen volume fraction (CVF) was higher than that in the control group (P < 0.01). Compared with the control group, the expression of collagen I and collagen III increased significantly in the medium and high NP groups (P < 0.05). The values of the systolic thickness of the left ventricular anterior wall (LVAWs), the diastolic thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall (LVPWd), the systolic thickness of the left ventricular posterior wall (LVPWs), and the left ventricular anterior wall (LVAWd) in the NP groups are were slightly lower than those in of the control group. The values of left ventricular end systolic dimensions (LVIDs) in the NP groups increased compared with the control group. Conclusions: Long-term NP exposure could lead to fibrosis in the rat myocardium, which is characterized by increased expressions of myocardial collagen I and collagen III, as well as elevated cardiac enzymes. In addition, the cardiac structure was affected and changes were observed in the thinner ventricular wall and as an enlarged ventricular cavity.
Acceptance and Image Quality of High-Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography of the Metacarpophalangeal Joints in Rheumatoid Arthritis.
Authors: Jensen Rasmus Klose , Keller Kresten Krarup , Langdahl Bente , Hauge Ellen-Margrethe 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Objective: To investigate the acceptance of the high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The second objective was to investigate the motion artefacts of the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints with two different custom-made positioning devices. Methods: Fifty patients with established RA had their MCP joints scanned by HR-pQCT with two different custom-made positioning devices and examined by conventional X-ray. Afterwards, the patients answered a questionnaire of imaging experience. The comparability of the erosion measures was investigated between the two different custom-made positioning devices by Bland-Altman plot, and intrareader repeatability by intraclass correlation coefficient. The motion artefacts were graded for each acquisition, and intrareader repeatability was investigated by Cohen's kappa coefficient.Results: Forty percent of the patients preferred HR-pQCT imaging, only 6% preferred conventional X-ray. Seventy-four percent found it difficult to keep their fingers steady during the scan. Fifty percent of the patients reported the inflatable immobilization device helped to keep their fingers steady while only 6% reported that it impaired their ability to do so. However, this difference was not reflected in the visual grading, as motion artefacts were sparse, and no clinically relevant difference could be observed. The intrareader repeatability and comparability for the erosion measures were excellent.Conclusion: The high acceptance among patients adds to the feasibility of HR-pQCT imaging of MCP joints in patients with RA. The inflatable immobilization device did not reduce motion-induced image degradation, as the overall visual grading for motion artefacts was low for imaging of the MCP joints in both acquisitions.
Association of Women’s Empowerment With Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (Wash) Services in Ethiopia: A Cross-sectional Analysis
Authors: Bogale Daniel 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background: Access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services is vital for human health and well-being. In Ethiopia, lack of improved WASH services has existed as a health problem for many years. Empowering women is among the most important factors for improving WASH services, but research-based evidence is lacking in this regard. The present study was designed to analyse the association between women’s empowerment and WASH services in Ethiopia.Methods: This analysis is based on the 2016 Ethiopian Demographic and Health Survey (EDHS). The survey-based Women’s emPowERment (SWPER) index approach is used to develop women’s empowerment indices. The three empowerment domains used by the SWPER authors include attitude to violence, social independence, and decision-making. Multilevel logistic regression was used to assess the association between these domains of women’s empowerment and WASH services. Estimates were presented as odds ratio (OR) and expressed per one standard deviation (SD) with significance levels set at the 5% level. Results: Overall, 90.9%, 78.4%, and 50.3% of the households included in this analysis had no basic handwashing facility, improved sanitation facility, and improved water source, respectively. A one SD increase in the social independence domain was associated with 16% higher odds of having basic handwashing facility (AOR: 1.16; 95%CI: 1.02, 1.33). As women’s attitude to violence increased by one SD, the odds of having improved sanitation facility is increased by 22% (AOR: 1.22; 95%CI: 1.05, 1.42). Also, a SD increase in social independence domain was associated with 18% higher odds of having improved sanitation facility (AOR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.04, 1.34). There was no statistically significant association between domains of women’s empowerment and source of water.Conclusions: This study has shown that most of the households in Ethiopia had no access to improved WASH services. Multiple regression analyses revealed that empowering women had association with having basic handwashing and improved sanitation facility. The findings of this study have suggestive evidence that empowering women could improve WASH cervices.
Developing an Interventional and Educational Program Based on Social Marketing Approach to Increase Regular Physical Activity in Girl Students: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Moeini Babak , Rezapur-Shahkolai Forouzan , Heidarimoghadam Rashid , Tapak Leili , Geravandi Azam 
Published: January 2021

Abstract
Background : Physical activity is one of the key factors in children and teenagers’ health. The present paper follows a qualitative approach to identify subjects’ viewpoints about regular physical activity and determine approaches to promote it based on social marketing mix. Methods: The study was carried out as a qualitative content analysis study in 2020 in Kermanshah city, Iran . Totally, 23 students as the main participants along with five parents and four physical trainers were selected through purposive sampling. After data analysis and extraction of primary codes, four categories emerged based on the elements of social marketing mix (product, price, place, and promotion) along with subcategories.Results: The majority of participants emphasized on the advantages namely prevention of chronic diseases, physical fitness, increased concentration, better learning performance, and a decrease in depression. They noted that they preferred a happy and friendly environment for doing physical activity. The teenagers listed fitness clubs, the media, and social media as preferred places to receive educational messages. Conclusion: The results showed that physical activity in teenagers was affected by personal, environmental, and social obstacles. The results gave an insight and a deeper knowledge about values and motivations in teenagers that affect their decision to do regular physical activity.