bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
HOXB13 G84E Mutation in Finland: Population-Based Analysis of Prostate, Breast, and Colorectal Cancer Risk
Authors: Laitinen Virpi H. , Wahlfors Tiina , Saaristo Leena , Rantapero Tommi , Pelttari Liisa M. , Kilpivaara Outi , Laasanen Satu-Leena , Kallioniemi Anne , Nevanlinna Heli , Aaltonen Lauri , Vessella Robert L. , Auvinen Anssi , Visakorpi Tapio , Tammela Teuvo L.J. , Schleutker Johanna 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Background: A recently identified germline mutation G84E in HOXB13 was shown to increase the risk of prostate cancer. In a family-based analysis by The International Consortium for Prostate Cancer Genetics (ICPCG), the G84E mutation was most prevalent in families from the Nordic countries of Finland (22.4%) and Sweden (8.2%).
Methods: To further investigate the importance of G84E in the Finns, we determined its frequency in more than 4,000 prostate cancer cases and 5,000 controls. In addition, 986 breast cancer and 442 colorectal cancer (CRC) cases were studied. Genotyping was conducted using TaqMan, MassARRAY iPLEX, and sequencing. Statistical analyses were conducted using Fisher exact test, and overall survival was analyzed using Cox modeling.
Results: The frequency of the G84E mutation was significantly higher among patients with prostate cancer and highest among patients with a family history of the disease, hereditary prostate cancer [8.4% vs. 1.0% in controls; OR 8.8; 95% confidence interval (CI), 4.9–15.7]. The mutation contributed significantly to younger age (≤55 years) at onset and high prostate-specific antigen (PSA; ≥20 ng/mL) at diagnosis. An association with increased prostate cancer risk in patients with prior benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) diagnosis was also revealed. No statistically significant evidence for a contribution in CRC risk was detected, but a suggestive role for the mutation was observed in familial BRCA1/2-negative breast cancer.
Conclusions: These findings confirm an increased cancer risk associated with the G84E mutation in the Finnish population, particularly for early-onset prostate cancer and cases with substantially elevated PSA.
Impact: This study confirms the overall importance of the HOXB13 G84E mutation in prostate cancer susceptibility. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(3); 452–60. ©2012 AACR.
A Comparison of the Polytomous Logistic Regression and Joint Cox Proportional Hazards Models for Evaluating Multiple Disease Subtypes in Prospective Cohort Studies
Authors: Xue Xiaonan , Kim Mimi Y. , Gaudet Mia M. , Park Yikyung , Heo Moonseong , Hollenbeck Albert R. , Strickler Howard D. , Gunter Marc J. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackground: Polytomous logistic regression models are commonly used in case–control studies of cancer to directly compare the risks associated with an exposure variable across multiple cancer subtypes. However, the validity, accuracy, and efficiency of this approach for prospective cohort studies have not been formally evaluated.Methods: We investigated the performance of the polytomous logistic regression model and compared it with an alternative approach based on a joint Cox proportional hazards model using simulation studies. We then applied both methods to a prospective cohort study to assess whether the association of breast cancer with body size differs according to estrogen and progesterone receptor–defined subtypes.Results: Our simulations showed that the polytomous logistic regression model but not the joint Cox regression model yielded biased results in comparing exposure and disease subtype associations when the baseline hazards for different disease subtypes are nonproportional. For this reason, an analysis of a real data set was based on the joint Cox proportional hazards model and showed that body size has a significantly greater association with estrogen- and progesterone-positive breast cancer than with other subtypes.Conclusions: Because of the limitations of the polytomous logistic regression model for the comparison of exposure–disease associations across disease subtypes, the joint Cox proportional hazards model is recommended over the polytomous logistic regression model in prospective cohort studies.Impact: The article will promote the use of the joint Cox model in a prospective cohort study. Examples of SAS and S-plus programming codes are provided to facilitate use by nonstatisticians. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(2); 275–85. ©2013 AACR.
No Association between Ovarian Cancer Susceptibility Variants and Breast Cancer Risk among Chinese Women
Authors: Ma Xiangyu , Cai Qiuyin , Delahanty Ryan J. , Shu Xiao-Ou , Zhang Ben , Lu Wei , Gao Yu-Tang , Zheng Wei , Long Jirong , Beeghly-Fadiel Alicia 
Published: January 2013

Abstract
Background: As breast and ovarian cancers may have similar etiologies, this study aimed to evaluate the hypothesis that breast cancer shares common genetic susceptibility variants with ovarian cancer.
Methods: Ten genetic variants in nine loci were previously identified to be associated with ovarian cancer risk among Caucasian women; an additional 353 variants in high-linkage disequilibrium (r2 ≥ 0.6) among Han Chinese were identified. Data were available from the Affymetrix Genome-Wide Array (6.0) or MACH imputation for 25 and 78 common genetic variants [minor allele frequency (MAF) ≥0.05], respectively. Associations with breast cancer risk were evaluated by additive logistic regression models among 2,918 breast cancer cases and 2,324 controls.
Results: No associations with breast cancer risk were evident for 103 ovarian cancer susceptibility variants in five loci. Four loci were not evaluated, as they included only rare variants (MAF &lt; 0.05).
Conclusions: Ovarian cancer susceptibility variants identified in Caucasian women were not associated with breast cancer risk among 5,242 Chinese women.
Impact: These findings suggest that breast and ovarian cancer may not share common susceptibility variants among Chinese women. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(3); 467–9. ©2013 AACR.
Relationship of quality of life with coping and burden in primary caregivers of patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Kate Natasha , Grover Sandeep , Kulhara Parmanand , Nehra Ritu 
Published: January 2013

Background: Very few studies have evaluated the quality of life (QOL) of caregivers of schizophrenia patients. The aim of this paper is to study the QOL, including the spirituality, religiousness and personal beliefs (SRPB) facets, of primary caregivers of patients with schizophrenia using the WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-SRPB scales. Additionally an attempt was made to study the relationship between QOL with coping and burden in caregivers. Method: One hundred primary caregivers of patients with schizophrenia completed the WHOQOL-BREF and WHOQOL-SRPB scales. They were also assessed on the Family Burden Interview Schedule and Coping Checklist. Results: There were no significant associations of clinical variables and perceived burden with any of the WHOQOL-BREF domains and various WHOQOL-SRPB facets. There was a significant positive correlation between WHOQOL-BREF and various facets of WHOQOL-SRPB. There was a significant negative correlation between coercion as a coping strategy and the spiritual strength facet of WHOQOL-SRPB. Seeking social support as a coping strategy had a negative correlation with all domains of WHOQOL-BREF, whereas avoidance and use of problem-focused coping had no correlation with any of the domains of WHOQOL-BREF. Collusion as a coping skill had a negative correlation with the domains of physical health, social relationships and environment and the total WHOQOL-BREF score. Coercion as a coping strategy had a negative correlation with the general health and environment domains of WHOQOL-BREF. Conclusions: Findings of the present study suggest that there is a positive correlation between WHOQOL-BREF domains and WHOQOL-SRPB facets, which indicates that SRPB forms an integral component of the concept of QOL. Further, the QOL of caregivers is influenced by the coping skills used to deal with stress arising due to a patient’s illness.
Empirical approach to main drain system design and solid transportation performance in buildings
Authors: Cheng CL , Liao WJ , He KC , Hsieh CH , Liu YC 
Published: January 2013

Water-saving facilities were constructed in response to the sustainability and global issues all over the world. However, the performance of drainage systems must be ensured as the volume of flush water is reduced. Otherwise, it might cause sanitary problems to indoor environments and interrupt building functions. According to the methodology of investigation and observation, this paper categorized parameters that dominate the solid transportation performance of main drains. An empirical experiment was executed to clarify the quantitative influence of these parameters. A calculation model for estimating the boundary condition of main drain design is conducted. Furthermore, an estimation interface is validated and proposed as an assessment tool for practical application. Practical implication: This paper offers an evaluation tool by statistic methodology to ensure solid transportation performance. An estimating model and regulation proposal of solid transportation in main drains of buildings that can guide the designer and engineer to confirm the performance of drainage system is validated and proved to be practicable. Furthermore, this research conducted an estimation interface to validate the solid transportation performance, which can offer an assessment tool for practical application. The results can contribute to building code guidelines and lead to new technical development of building drainage systems.
Social Isolation and Cognitive Function in Appalachian Older Adults
Authors: DiNapoli Elizabeth A. , Wu Bei , Scogin Forrest 
Published: January 2013

Objective: Investigating the relation between social isolation and cognitive function will allow us to identify components to incorporate into cognitive interventions. Method: Data were collected from 267 Appalachian older adults ( M = 78.5, range 70–94 years). Overall cognitive functioning and specific cognitive domains were assessed from data of a self-assembled neuropsychological battery of frequently used tasks. Social isolation, social disconnectedness, and perceived isolation were measured from the Lubben Social Network scale-6. Results: Results indicated a significant positive association between all predictor variables (e.g., social isolation, social disconnectedness, and perceived isolation) and outcome variables (e.g., overall cognitive function, memory, executive functioning, attention, and language abilities). Perceived isolation accounted for nearly double the amount of variance in overall cognitive functioning than social disconnectedness (10.2% vs. 5.7%). Discussion: Findings suggest that social isolation is associated with poorer overall cognitive functioning and this remains true across varied cognitive domains.
Bonus Wages
Authors: Cipolla Francisco Paulo 
Published: January 2013

This paper argues that bonus wages, understood as lump sum payments contingent upon the achievement of a firm’s production goals, are superior to piece wages from the point of view of capital. While bonus wages reproduce the main traits of piece wages they also generate a higher degree of cohesion on the shop floor due to self-interest and mutual surveillance among workers. It is suggested that bonus wages are better analyzed within a Marxian framework for they are a manifestation of the capitalist need for control both of the labor process and the process of valorization, a double aspect that is not considered either in wage efficiency theories or in radical theories of cost of job loss. It is argued further that bonus wages cannot be understood on the basis of reciprocity or fairness theories for they are the result of conflict rather than the outcome of mutual comprehension and a taste for equity. It concludes that the separate goals of discipline and incentive are collapsed together because the use of bonus wages for incentive in the form of a bonus acts as an instrument of discipline. Jel Classification: B 51; J33
The effects of dietary boron compounds in supplemented diet on hormonal activity and some biochemical parameters in rats
Authors: Kucukkurt Ismail , Akbel Erten , Karabag Funda , Ince Sinan 
Published: January 2013

The aims of this study were to clarify the effects of dietary boric acid or borax, as a boron (B) source, on hormonal status (leptin, insulin, triiodothyronine (T3), and thyroxine) and some biochemical parameter levels as glucose, carnitine, nonesterified fatty acids, and betahydroxybutyric acid in rats. A total of 30 Sprague-Dawley male rats were divided into three equal groups: the animals in the first group (control) were fed with a standard rodent diet containing 6.4 mg B/kg, and the animals in the experimental group were fed with a standard rodent diet added with boric acid and borax (100 mg B/kg) throughout the experimental period of 28 days. The B compounds especially borax decreased leptin, insulin, and glucose levels, whereas increased T3 and carnitine levels in plasma. In addition, body weight of rats was found to be low in the boric acid group at the end of 4 weeks. Consequently, our results demonstrate that B supplementation (100 mg/kg) in diet decreases body weight, leptin, and insulin, whereas increases T3 levels in plasma, so enhances the metabolic activity of rats. Between the B compounds used in this study, it was found that borax had a greater effect on hormonal status than boric acid.
Effects of trona on the redox status of cellular system of male rats
Authors: Ajiboye Taofeek O , Komolafe Yesirat O , Yakubu Musa T , Ogunbode Simiat M 
Published: January 2013

The effects of trona ( Kaun), a food additive, on the redox status of the liver and kidney of male Wistar rats were investigated. A total of 60 male rats (145 ± 2.52 g) were grouped into four: A, B, C and D, where group A (the control) received 1 mL of distilled water orally while those in groups B, C and D (test groups) received orally, same volume of trona preparation corresponding to 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg body weight, respectively, for 28 days. Administration of trona significantly reduced ( p < 0.05) alkaline phosphatase activity in the liver and kidney with corresponding increases in the serum enzyme. Acid phosphatase activity increased significantly ( p < 0.05) in the liver and kidney with no significant change ( p > 0.05) in the activity of the serum enzyme. The activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and the levels of reduced glutathione, vitamins C and E in the liver and kidney of the animals decreased significantly ( p < 0.05). In contrast, malondialdehyde and lipid hydroperoxide of trona-treated animals increased significantly ( p < 0.05) in liver and kidney. Overall, data from this study revealed that trona exhibited its toxic effect by suppressing or depleting the antioxidant systems and increasing the risk of attack by oxidants generated either from its metabolites or from other in vivo means on the rat cellular system.
Impact of temozolomide on gonadal function in patients with primary malignant brain tumors
Authors: Strowd RE , Blackwood R , Brown M , Harmon M , Lovato J , Yalcinkaya T , Lesser G 
Published: January 2013

Background Cumulative exposure to alkylating agents may produce impaired reproductive function. Temozolomide is an alkylating agent approved for treating malignant gliomas. Objective A pilot study was undertaken to investigate the effects of temozolomide on semen integrity in men with newly diagnosed or recurrent malignant gliomas. Methods Eligible patients had no known fertility problems or impotence. Comprehensive semen analysis and serum sex hormones were obtained at baseline and following 3 and at least 6 months of temozolomide. Results Thirteen men were recruited. Mean age was 42 years (28–58). Three had recurrent and 10 newly diagnosed malignant glioma. Four were unable to ejaculate or were azoospermic at baseline. Four provided samples at baseline and after at least 6 months of temozolomide. Five were unable to complete the study. Two of four patients with paired baseline and 6-month samples received 6 months of standard monthly temozolomide. Two patients received standard radiation and concurrent temozolomide followed by adjuvant temozolomide. At 6 months, three of these four patients demonstrated low sperm motility (two low at baseline); three had abnormally low percent normal forms (one abnormal at baseline); two developed abnormally low sperm density. Sex hormone values were normal in all four patients at all time points. Conclusion Changes in semen analysis parameters following 6 months of temozolomide were observed. The small sample size precludes any firm conclusions regarding the importance and duration of these findings and their relation to temozolomide exposure. With validation in a larger study, these results may have important implications for counseling prior to initiation of temozolomide therapy in these patients.
Carfilzomib: A new proteasome inhibitor for relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma
Authors: Steele Jason M 
Published: January 2013

Purpose The pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical trials, adverse effects, dosage recommendations, and economic considerations of carfilzomib are reviewed. Summary Multiple myeloma accounts for approximately 10–15% of all hematologic malignancies and 20% of blood‐related cancer deaths. Despite recent advances in the treatment of multiple myeloma, most patients will eventually relapse, requiring further treatment. Carfilzomib is a new proteasome inhibitor that primarily targets the chymotrypsin‐like activity of the 20S proteasome. The safety and efficacy of carfilzomib was demonstrated in the PX‐171‐003‐A1 trial, a prospective phase II trial in patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who had received at least 2 prior therapies including a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent. Common adverse effects included fatigue (55.5%), anemia (46.8%), nausea (44.9%), and thrombocytopenia (36.3%). The recommended dose of carfilzomib for the first cycle is 20 mg/m2 on 2 consecutive days each week for 3 weeks in a 4‐week cycle escalating to 27 mg/m2 for subsequent cycles. It is recommended that patients receive premedication with dexamethasone during cycle 1 and cycle 2 to minimize risk of infusion reactions. Conclusion Carfilzomib provides a clinical benefit to patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma who have been previously treated with a proteasome inhibitor and an immunomodulatory agent.
A literature-based intervention for older people living with dementia
Authors: Billington Josie , Carroll Janine , Davis Philip , Healey Christine , Kinderman Peter 
Published: January 2013

Background: While several studies have explored the impact of literature and reading on mental health, there has been relatively little work done on how a literature-based intervention might impact on the behaviours of those living with dementia. The present report addresses the effect that a specific literature-based intervention – Get into Reading, designed and practised by national charity The Reader Organisation – might have on the health and well-being of people living with dementia. Aims: This present study arises out of a service evaluation that specifically assessed to what extent the shared-reading intervention impacted upon behaviours symptomatic of dementia. Its aims were: (1) to understand the influence that reading has on older adults with dementia in different health-care environments; (2) to identify staff perceptions of the influence that engagement in a reading group has on older adults living with dementia; and (3) to investigate any changes in dementia symptoms of older adults participating in a reading group. Methods: The study employed a mixed-method design conducted within three health-care environments: three care homes, two hospital wards and one day centre. The Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q) assessed staff views of any changes in dementia symptom severity for participants in reading groups conducted in the care homes. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were then conducted with staff who attended the reading groups and/or had extensive knowledge of service users involved in all of the health-care settings. Responses to questions were recorded verbatim and then subject to thematic analysis. Results: 61 service users and 20 staff members took part in the overall project. The NPI-Q results indicate that symptom scores were lower during the reading group period than at baseline. These findings were supported by the qualitative interviews, which suggested that three themes were perceived to be important to effective engagement with the reading groups: (1) the components of the reading group intervention; (2) enjoyment, authenticity, meaningfulness and renewed sense of personal identity; and (3) enhancement of listening, memory and attention. Conclusions: In light of quantifiable data of limited but indicative status, together with strongly corroborative qualitative evidence, engagement in reading-group activity appeared to produce a significant reduction in dementia symptom severity. Staff interviews indicated the contribution of reading groups to well-being.
Osteochondrosis of the Medial Cuneiform Bone in a Child
Authors: Atbasi Zafer , Ege Tolga , Kose Ozkan , Egerci Omer Faruk , Demiralp Bahtiyar 
Published: January 2013

Although, osteochondrosis of tarsal and metatarsal bones are frequent in children, involvement of the cuneiform bone is rare. Because of its rarity, the relevant literature is composed of small case series and case reports. Here, we report the case of a 6-year-old boy with bilateral osteochondrosis of the medial cuneiform bone. Activity modification and analgesia were sufficient for the relief of symptoms during follow-up. We discuss the demographic and clinical characteristics, radiographic findings, and treatment of this rare entity with a review of literature. Level of evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV, Case study
Extensile Decompression of the Proximal and Distal Tarsal Tunnel Combined With Partial Plantar Fascia Release in the Treatment of Chronic Plantar Heel Pain
Authors: Mook William R. , Gay Tenaja , Parekh Selene G. 
Published: January 2013

Background. Chronic heel pain that is recalcitrant to nonoperative measures is a rare but disabling condition. There are no reports in the literature of extensile proximal and distal tarsal tunnel release combined with partial plantar fasciotomy in the treatment of chronic heel pain. We present our results. Methods. A retrospective chart review was conducted, and charts were assessed for details of their presenting complaints, physical exam, diagnostic studies, medical history, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scores for pain, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle-hindfoot scores, and complications. Results. The mean AOFAS ankle-hindfoot score was 86 ± 12.9 (range = 69-100). Of 15 heels, 10 (67%) had an excellent or good rating at the time of the last follow-up visit. One of 15 (7%) reported a poor outcome. The mean VAS pain score changed from 6.3 ± 3.1 to 1.4 ± 1.8 (P = .001). There were no wound complications or infections. Conclusion. This technique offers another operative option for chronic heel pain that is associated with satisfactory outcomes and rest pain relief. Despite reducing pain at rest in all patients, the majority of patients may be left with mild to moderate residual symptoms with activity that is similar to the outcomes of previously reported procedures. Level of Evidence: Therapeutic, Level IV, Retrospective case series