bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Bayesian Estimation of Performance Measures of Cervical Cancer Screening Tests in the Presence of Covariates and Absence of a Gold Standard
Authors: Martinez Edson Zangiacomi , Louzada-Neto Francisco , Derchain Sophie Françoise Mauricette , Achcar Jorge Alberto , Gontijo Renata Clementino , Sarian Luis Otávio Zanatta , Syrjänen Kari Juhani 
Published: October 2017

In this paper we develop a Bayesian analysis to estimate the disease prevalence, the sensitivity and specificity of three cervical cancer screening tests (cervical cytology, visual inspection with acetic acid and Hybrid Capture II) in the presence of a covariate and in the absence of a gold standard. We use Metropolis-Hastings algorithm to obtain the posterior summaries of interest. The estimated prevalence of cervical lesions was 6.4% (a 95% credible interval [95% CI] was 3.9, 9.3). The sensitivity of cervical cytology (with a result of ≥ ASC-US) was 53.6% (95% CI: 42.1, 65.0) compared with 52.9% (95% CI: 43.5, 62.5) for visual inspection with acetic acid and 90.3% (95% CI: 76.2, 98.7) for Hybrid Capture II (with result of >1 relative light units). The specificity of cervical cytology was 97.0% (95% CI: 95.5, 98.4) and the specificities for visual inspection with acetic acid and Hybrid Capture II were 93.0% (95% CI: 91.0, 94.7) and 88.7% (95% CI: 85.9, 91.4), respectively. The Bayesian model with covariates suggests that the sensitivity and the specificity of the visual inspection with acetic acid tend to increase as the age of the women increases.The Bayesian method proposed here is an useful alternative to estimate measures of performance of diagnostic tests in the presence of covariates and when a gold standard is not available. An advantage of the method is the fact that the number of parameters to be estimated is not limited by the number of observations, as it happens with several frequentist approaches. However, it is important to point out that the Bayesian analysis requires informative priors in order for the parameters to be identifiable. The method can be easily extended for the analysis of other medical data sets.
A Unified Discussion on the Concept of Score Functions Used in the Context of Nonparametric Linkage Analysis
Authors: Ängquist Lars 
Published: October 2017

In this article we try to discuss nonparametric linkage (NPL) score functions within a broad and quite general framework. The main focus of the paper is the structure, derivation principles and interpretations of the score function entity itself. We define and discuss several families of one-locus score function definitions, i.e. the implicit, explicit and optimal ones. Some generalizations and comments to the two-locus, unconditional and conditional, cases are included as well. Although this article mainly aims at serving as an overview, where the concept of score functions are put into a covering context, we generalize the noncentrality parameter (NCP) optimal score functions in Ängquist et al. (2007) to facilitate—through weighting—for incorporation of several plausible distinct genetic models. Since the genetic model itself most oftenly is to some extent unknown this facilitates weaker prior assumptions with respect to plausible true disease models without loosing the property of NCP-optimality.Moreover, we discuss general assumptions and properties of score functions in the above sense. For instance, the concept of identical by descent (IBD) sharing structures and score function equivalence are discussed in some detail.
Designing Toxicogenomics Studies that use DNA Array Technology
Authors: Delongchamp Robert R. , Velasco Cruz , Desai Varsha G. , Lee Taewon , Fuscoe James C. 
Published: October 2017

BackgroundBioassays are routinely used to evaluate the toxicity of test agents. Experimental designs for bioassays are largely encompassed by fixed effects linear models. In toxicogenomics studies where DNA arrays measure mRNA levels, the tissue samples are typically generated in a bioassay. These measurements introduce additional sources of variation, which must be properly managed to obtain valid tests of treatment effects.ResultsAn analysis of covariance model is developed which combines a fixed-effects linear model for the bioassay with important variance components associated with DNA array measurements. These models can accommodate the dominant characteristics of measurements from DNA arrays, and they account for technical variation associated with normalization, spots, dyes, and batches as well as the biological variation associated with the bioassay. An example illustrates how the model is used to identify valid designs and to compare competing designs.ConclusionsMany toxicogenomics studies are bioassays which measure gene expression using DNA arrays. These studies can be designed and analyzed using standard methods with a few modifications to account for characteristics of array measurements, such as multiple endpoints and normalization. As much as possible, technical variation associated with probes, dyes, and batches are managed by blocking treatments within these sources of variation. An example shows how some practical constraints can be accommodated by this modelling and how it allows one to objectively compare competing designs.
Effect of Androgen Deprivation Therapy on Bone Mineral Density in a Prostate Cancer Cohort in New Zealand: A Pilot Study
Authors: Wang Alice , Karunasinghe Nishi , Plank Lindsay , Zhu Shuotun , Osborne Sue , Bishop Karen , Brown Charis , Schwass Tiffany , Masters Jonathan , Holmes Michael , Huang Roger , Keven Christine , Ferguson Lynnette , Lawrenson Ross 
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Reduction in bone mineral density (BMD) is a common side effect of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT). We aimed to examine the cross-sectional and longitudinal variation in BMD and associated bone markers in patients with nonmetastatic prostate cancer (PCa) managed with and without ADT. Methods: Bone mineral density of the total body, lumbar spine, femoral neck, ultradistal forearm, and one-third distal radius was measured in 88 patients with PCa without bone metastases at baseline and at 6 months. Patients were categorized into 4 groups: (1) acute ADT (≤6 months), (2) chronic ADT (>6 months), (3) former ADT, and (4) no ADT (controls). Serum levels of bone metabolism markers, procollagen type I N-terminal propeptide (PINP) and C-terminal cross-linking telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX), were also measured. Results: In the cross-sectional analysis, men receiving chronic ADT had significantly lower total body BMD as compared with former ADT users and men with no ADT. In longitudinal analysis, a significant reduction in ultradistal forearm BMD was observed in both acute and chronic ADT users after 6 months (4.08% and 2.7%, P = .012 and .026, respectively). A significant reduction in total body BMD was observed in acute ADT users (2.99%, P = .032). Former ADT users had a significant increase in both lumbar spine and femoral neck BMD (2.84% and 1.59%, P = .008 and .002, respectively). The changes in BMD were not significantly different between acute and chronic ADT users. In the cross-sectional analysis, higher levels of PINP and CTX were observed in acute and chronic ADT users than former ADT users or PCa controls. In longitudinal analysis, the level of serum PINP and CTX did not change significantly from baseline to 6 months in acute, chronic, and former ADT users, or PCa controls, and the percentage change did not differ among the 4 groups. Conclusions: Men on acute ADT had a similar rate of bone loss to men on chronic ADT. Reversibility in ADT-induced bone loss was observed in those who discontinued ADT. Serum levels of PINP and CTX were higher in acute and chronic ADT users and levels returned to the range of PCa controls when treatment was withdrawn.
Differences in illness perception between children with cancer and other chronic diseases and their parents
Authors: Szentes Annamária , Kökönyei Gyöngyi , Békési Andrea , Bokrétás Ildikó , Török Szabolcs 
Published: October 2017

Background: The purpose of this study was to explore the differences in illness perception between children with cancer and other chronic diseases. A secondary aim was to examine the similarities and differences between the illness perception of these children and their parents. Methods: The Revised Illness Perception Questionnaire (IPQ-R) was used to measure the children’s and parents’ illness perceptions. In this study, 184 children (ages 8–18 years) and their caregivers completed the questionnaires. Results: This study shows that children with cancer feel that they have greater control over their treatment compared to the other two groups. The children’s parents have more pessimistic views of the illness than their children. Conclusion: Examinations of illness perceptions among paediatric cancer patients and their families are essential in designing psychosocial interventions for these families. The clinical value of our results can help better understand the cancer-specific features of illness perceptions.
Problematizing Authentic Leadership: A Collaborative Autoethnography of Immigrant Women of Color Leaders in Higher Education
Authors: Ngunjiri Faith Wambura , Hernandez Kathy-Ann C. 
Published: October 2017

The ProblemAuthentic leadership literature is often seen as acontextual and unproblematic—leaders merely need to “know thyself” and “to thine own self be true.” Even when scholars like Eagly argue authenticity is a relational concept, it remains uncontextualized for those whose social identities set them apart from the majority within organizations and society.The SolutionThrough this collaborative autoethnography, we aim to illustrate the complexity of enacting authentic leadership as immigrant women of color who are leaders within predominantly White institutional contexts.The StakeholdersOne audience for this article is other women of color with whom our experiences may resonate. A broader audience includes those in power within organizations who might use this article as fodder for crafting more inclusive spaces that support both the development of authentic leaders and the practice of relational authenticity.
The Discussion of Sexual Dysfunction Before and After Kidney Transplantation From the Perspective of the Renal Transplant Surgeon
Authors: van Ek Gaby F. , Krouwel Esmée M. , van der Veen Els , Nicolai Melianthe P. J. , Ringers Jan , Den Oudsten Brenda L. , Putter Hein , Pelger Rob C. M. , Elzevier Henk W. 
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Sexual dysfunction (SD) is a common problem in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and endures in 50% of patients after kidney transplantation (KTx), diminishing patients’ expectations of life after KTx. Unfortunately, SD is often ignored by renal care providers. Research questions as part of a research project among all renal care providers, transplant surgeons’ perspectives were obtained on sexual health care for KTx recipients, including their opinion on who should be accountable for this care. In addition, surgeons’ practice and knowledge regarding SD were evaluated. Design: A 39-item questionnaire was sent to all Dutch surgeons and residents specialized in KTx (n = 47). Results: Response was 63.8%. None of the respondents discussed SD with their patients, before or after surgery. Most important barrier was that surgeons do not feel accountable for it (73.9%); 91.7% thought this accountability should lie with the nephrologist. Another barrier was insufficient knowledge (39.1%). In 75% of the respondents, (almost) no knowledge regarding SD was present and 87.5% noticed education on SD was insufficient during residence training. Discussion: Dutch renal transplant surgeons rarely discuss SD with their patients with CKD, as they do not feel accountable for it; this accountability was appointed to the nephrologist. Knowledge and education regarding SD were found insufficient in enabling surgeons and for some it reflects in barriers toward discussing SD. Results emphasize that accountability for providing sexual health care to patients with CKD should lie elsewhere; however, surgeons could briefly provide information on sexual health after KTx, so unfulfilled expectations may be prevented.
An Assessment of the Burden on Polish Caregivers of Patients With Dementia: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Kowalska Joanna , Gorączko Agata , Jaworska Lilianna , Szczepańska-Gieracha Joanna 
Published: October 2017

Introduction: The aim of the study was to assess the level of burden of caregivers of persons with dementia and to analyze the factors related to the sense of burden. Methods: The study group consisted of 58 caregivers with an average age of 54.7 (± 12.6) and 45 (78%) were women. The Caregiver Burden Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), the Berlin Social Support Scale (BSSS), and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used. Results: In the study group, 93% could rely on help in caring for the patient, provided mainly by the family. Most caregivers demonstrated a medium level of burden (2.63 ± 0.61). A significant correlation was found between the level of caregiver burden and caregiving frequency, BSSS, BDI, and SWLS. Conclusions: A lot of factors influence the caregivers’ burden. It appears necessary to take into consideration the cultural, religious, and economic distinctiveness of the country in question.
The efficacy of cladribine tablets in CIS patients retrospectively assigned the diagnosis of MS using modern criteria: Results from the ORACLE-MS study
Authors: Freedman Mark S , Leist Thomas P , Comi Giancarlo , Cree Bruce AC , Coyle Patricia K , Hartung Hans-Peter , Vermersch Patrick , Damian Doris , Dangond Fernando 
Published: October 2017

Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnostic criteria have changed since the ORACLE-MS study was conducted; 223 of 616 patients (36.2%) would have met the diagnosis of MS vs clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) using the newer criteria. Objective The objective of this paper is to assess the effect of cladribine tablets in patients with a first clinical demyelinating attack fulfilling newer criteria (McDonald 2010) for MS vs CIS. Methods A post hoc analysis for subgroups of patients retrospectively classified as fulfilling or not fulfilling newer criteria at the first clinical demyelinating attack was conducted. Results Cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg ( n = 68) reduced the risk of next attack or three-month confirmed Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) worsening by 74% vs placebo ( n = 72); p = 0.0009 in patients meeting newer criteria for MS at baseline. Cladribine tablets 5.25 mg/kg ( n = 83) reduced the risk of next attack or three-month confirmed EDSS worsening by 37%, but nominal significance was not reached ( p = 0.14). In patients who were still CIS after applying newer criteria, cladribine tablets 3.5 mg/kg ( n = 138) reduced the risk of conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis (CDMS) by 63% vs placebo ( n = 134); p = 0.0003. Cladribine tablets 5.25 mg/kg ( n = 121) reduced the risk of conversion by 75% vs placebo ( n = 134); p < 0.0001. Conclusions Regardless of the criteria used to define CIS or MS, 3.5 mg/kg cladribine tablets are effective in patients with a first clinical demyelinating attack. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: The ORACLE-MS study (NCT00725985).
Prevalence of neutralising antibodies to interferon-beta and clinical response in Chinese patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis
Authors: Lau Alexander Y , Ip WK , Au Cheryl , Lau KK , Wong Winnie , Yip KK , Yeung Jonas , Li SH , Li Patrick , Lee Ryan , Siu Deyond , Abrigo Jill , Wong Adrian , Mok Vincent , Chan Eric 
Published: October 2017

Background There are no data on neutralising antibodies to interferon-beta and its clinical implications in Chinese patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). Objectives The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of neutralising antibodies among Chinese patients with relapsing MS receiving interferon-beta (1a or 1b) and to study the association between neutralising antibodies and the clinical-radiological response. Methods We performed a cross-sectional study on MS patients who received interferon-beta for 9 months or more, and evaluated the clinical response by relapses and magnetic resonance imaging lesions. Blood samples were evaluated for myxovirus resistance protein A (MxA) gene expression by polymerase chain reaction, anti-interferon-beta binding antibodies by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and neutralising antibodies by cell-based MxA protein induction and luciferase reporter gene assays. Assay performances were evaluated by receiver operating characteristic analysis. Results Among 78 subjects recruited, 61/77 (79%) had anti-interferon-beta binding antibodies, and 22/78 (28%) had neutralising antibodies by MxA protein induction assay. The presence of high-titre neutralising antibodies was associated with poor clinical outcome (odds ratio 6.1, 95% confidence interval 1.5–25.6, P = 0.013). The sensitivity and specificity for neutralising antibodies using MxA gene expression assay (cut-off 0.20) was 80% and 68%, respectively (area under the curve 0.71). Conclusions Neutralising antibodies are associated with poor clinical outcome in Chinese patients with relapsing MS. MxA gene expression and protein induction assays are complimentary assays for neutralising antibody detection.
Stock Market Volatility and Anomalies in India: A Behavioural Approach
Authors: Siddiqui Taufeeque Ahmad , Narula Isha 
Published: October 2017

Purpose: The major objective of this research is to investigate the existence of volatility-based anomalies in Indian stock market, which are the result of various behavioural biases. The nature of Indian stock market volatility is investigated employing various volatility models such as spillover effect profoundly acknowledged as herding, leverage effect prominently entitled as low volatility anomaly and persistence of long- and short-term volatility. Design/Methodology/Approach: The present study has employed various autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (ARCH) family models such as generalised autoregressive conditional heteroscedasticity (GARCH), exponential GARCH (EGARCH) and component GARCH (CGARCH) to appraise assorted nature of volatility patterns in Indian stock market. Findings: The results empirically validate that herding endures in both bullish and bearish trend, whereas herding has amplified for Nifty and Smallcap in bearish trend. Furthermore, the results divulge the existence of stock market inefficiency due to low volatility anomaly. The outcomes pragmatically verify the persistence of volatility in long and short run. The empirical evidences also assist in acknowledging the degree of subsistence of anomalies and biases in market uptrends and downtrends in order to comprehend the level of rationality of investors in diverse market situations. Practical Implications: Various GARCH models, employed in the study, alleviate a direction for forecasting as regards volatility to assemble optimum portfolio in diverse market situations. Originality/Value: The present study gives a distinctive insight on the existence of volatility-based anomalies using exclusive econometric models. It informs about the market anomalies and states about the most prominent bias.
PTEN Promoter Variants Are Not Associated With Common Cancers: Implications for Multigene Panel Testing
Authors: Black Mary Helen , Li Shuwei , Pesaran Tina , LaDuca Holly , Karam Rachid , Clifford Jacob , Smith Brandon , Pilarski Robert 
Published: October 2017

Purpose PTEN mutations are associated with breast, colon, endometrial, kidney, and thyroid cancers. Most PTEN promoter alterations, however, are characterized as variants of unknown significance, and their contribution to cancer risk is unclear. Materials and Methods Personal and family histories of 88,333 patients undergoing PTEN analysis as part of multigene panel testing (MGPT) were retrospectively reviewed. Cases (n = 59,784) were individuals with personal history of PTEN-related cancer. Controls (n = 28,549) had no personal history of cancer. Individuals were categorized as positive for one or more mutations (PATHO), without mutations but carrying one or more promoter variant (PROM), or negative for alterations (WT). Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess PTEN associations with phenotypes, adjusted for race/ethnicity, age, sex, and MGPT. Results Overall, 79 (0.09%) patients were PATHO and 791 (0.9%) were PROM carriers. Compared with WT, PATHOs were 2.30 (95% CI, 1.19 to 4.72) times as likely to have breast, 7.23 (95% CI, 2.74 to 19.14) times as likely to have bilateral/multiple primary breast, and 7.56 (95% CI, 1.97 to 23.98) times as likely to have uterine/endometrial cancer. PROMs were not significantly more likely than WT to have cancer (all 0.84 < odds ratio < 1.15; P > .05). Conclusion PTEN promoter variants were not associated with cancer. These results do not support the inclusion of PTEN promoter sequencing in MGPT.
The Role of GLP-1 in the Metabolic Success of Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Hutch Chelsea R , Sandoval Darleen 
Published: October 2017

Abstract
Two of the most popular bariatric procedures, vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) and Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB), are commonly considered metabolic surgeries because they are thought to affect metabolism in a weight loss–independent manner. In support of this classification, improvements in glucose homeostasis, insulin sensitivity, and even discontinuation of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) medication can occur before substantial postoperative weight loss. The mechanisms that underlie this effect are unknown. However, one of the common findings after VSG and RYGB in both animal models and humans is the sharp postprandial rise in several gut peptides, including the incretin and satiety peptide glucagonlike peptide-1 (GLP-1). The increase in endogenous GLP-1 signaling has been considered a primary pathway leading to postsurgical weight loss and improvements in glucose metabolism. However, the degree to which GLP-1 and other gut peptides are responsible for the metabolic successes after bariatric surgery is continually debated. In this review we discuss the mechanisms underlying the increase in GLP-1 and its potential role in the metabolic improvements after bariatric surgery, including remission of T2DM. Understanding the role of changes in gut peptides, or lack thereof, will be crucial in understanding the critical factors necessary for the metabolic success of bariatric surgery.
Rodent models in Down syndrome research: impact and future opportunities
Authors: Herault Yann , Delabar Jean M. , Fisher Elizabeth M. C. , Tybulewicz Victor L. J. , Yu Eugene , Brault Veronique 
Published: October 2017

ABSTRACT
Down syndrome is caused by trisomy of chromosome 21. To date, a multiplicity of mouse models with Down-syndrome-related features has been developed to understand this complex human chromosomal disorder. These mouse models have been important for determining genotype-phenotype relationships and identification of dosage-sensitive genes involved in the pathophysiology of the condition, and in exploring the impact of the additional chromosome on the whole genome. Mouse models of Down syndrome have also been used to test therapeutic strategies. Here, we provide an overview of research in the last 15 years dedicated to the development and application of rodent models for Down syndrome. We also speculate on possible and probable future directions of research in this fast-moving field. As our understanding of the syndrome improves and genome engineering technologies evolve, it is necessary to coordinate efforts to make all Down syndrome models available to the community, to test therapeutics in models that replicate the whole trisomy and design new animal models to promote further discovery of potential therapeutic targets.