Functional non-parametric mixed effects models for cytotoxicity assessment and clustering.

A multitude of natural and synthetic chemicals are present in our environment.Through the study of a compound's cytotoxicity, researchers can carefully set regulations regarding how much of a certain chemical in the ambient environment is tolerable. In the past, research has focused on point measurements such as the LD50. Instead, we consider entire time-dependent cellular response curves through the application of functional mixed effects models. We identify differences in such curves corresponding to the chemical's mode of action-i.e. how the compound attacks human cells. Through such analysis, we identify curve features to be used for cluster analysis via application of both k-means and self organizing maps. The data is analyzed by making use of functional principal components as a data driven basis and separately by considering B-splines for identifying local-time features. Our analysis can be used to drastically speed up future cytotoxicity research.

The prevention of child and adolescent anxiety: a meta-analytic review.

The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive review of the effectiveness of child and adolescent anxiety prevention programs. Mean weighted effect sizes were calculated, and studies were encoded for potential moderator variables. A statistically significant effect size of .18 was obtained at post-intervention, which is consistent with effect sizes reported in reviews of depression, eating disorder, and substance abuse prevention programs. However, the effect sizes obtained at follow-up yielded mixed results. Significant moderators of program effectiveness were found including provider type (professional versus lay provider) and the use of the FRIENDS program. In contrast, program duration, participant age, gender, and program type (universal versus targeted) were not found to moderate program effectiveness. Clinical implications and directions for future research are discussed, including the need for more long-term follow-up, early prevention programs, and studies that systematically examine the impact of parent involvement on program effectiveness.

The Association between KIF6 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism rs20455 and Serum Lipids in Filipino-American Women.

The Trp719Arg allele of KIF6 rs20455, a putative risk factor for CHD especially in those with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), was investigated in Filipino-American women (FAW, n = 235) participating in health screenings in four cities. The rs20455 genotype of each subject was determined by a multiplex assay using a Luminex-OLA procedure. The risk allele Trp719Arg was present in 77% of the subjects. The genotype distribution was 23% Trp/Trp, 51% Arg/Trp, and 26% Arg/Arg. Genotype did not predict the presence of CHD risk factors. Moreover, LDL-C, HDL-C, and triglycerides mean values did not vary as a function of genotype. However, those with the Arg/Arg genotype on statin medication exhibited a significantly higher mean triglycerides level (P < 0.01). Approximately 60% of participants regardless of genotype exhibited LDL-C levels ≥100 mg/dL but were not taking medication. Approximately 43% of those with the Trp719Arg risk allele on statins exhibited elevated LDL-C levels. Our study suggests that the Trp719Arg allele of KIF 6 rs20455 is common among Filipino-American women; thus, even with borderline LDL-C levels would benefit from statin treatment. Secondly, many participants did not exhibit guideline recommended LDL-C levels including many who were on statin drugs.