Bayesian non-linear matching of pairwise microarray gene expressions

In this paper, we present a Bayesian non-linear model to analyze matching pairs of microarray expression data. This model generalizes, in terms of neural networks, standard linear matching models. As a practical application, we analyze data of patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and we find out the best neural net model that relates the expression levels of two types of cytogenetically different samples from them

Spatial matching of M configurations of points with a bioinformatics application

In this paper, we present a model to deal with the problem of matching M objects or configurations of points. This is a generalization of the model proposed by Green and Mardia (2006). We consider, as a direct and simple application, the case of three configurations with labelled and with unlabelled points. In both cases, we consider data from a microarray experiment of gorilla, bonobo and human cultured fibroblasts published by Karaman et al. (2003). We find out the matchings and the best affine transformation between the projections of genes in a two dimensional space, obtained by a Multidimensional Scaling technique

Flexible inflation targets, forex interventions and exchange rate volatility in emerging countries

Emerging economies with inflation targets (IT) face a dilemma between fulflling the theoretical conditions of "strict IT", which implies a fully flexible exchange rate, or applying a "flexible IT", which entails a de facto managed floating exchange rate with forex interventions to moderate exchange rate volatility. Using a panel data model for 37 countries we find that, although IT lead to higher exchange rate instability than alternative regimes, forex interventions in some IT countries have been more effective in reducing volatility than in non-IT countries, which may justify the use of "flexible IT" by policymakers.inflation targeting; exchange rate volatility; foreign exchange interventions; emerging economies

Spatial matching of M configurations of points with a bioinformatics application

In this paper, we present a model to deal with the problem of matching M objects or configurations of points. This is a generalization of the model proposed by Green and Mardia (2006). We consider, as a direct and simple application, the case of three configurations with labelled and with unlabelled points. In both cases, we consider data from a microarray experiment of gorilla, bonobo and human cultured fibroblasts published by Karaman et al. (2003). We find out the matchings and the best affine transformation between the projections of genes in a two dimensional space, obtained by a Multidimensional Scaling technique.

A new outcome measure for cost-utility analyses of screening programs

We show that, under some plausible assumptions, the gain in QALYs a screening program offers is a positive linear transformation of the program's sensitivity level. This result simplifies considerably the cost-utility analysis of mutually exclusive screening programs.

Opportunity analysis of newborn screening programs

There exist congenital diseases that reduce newborns' potential opportunities. This reduction is sometimes alleviated if the congenital disease is early detected thanks to a newborn screening program. We propose an outcome measurement of newborn screening programs based on the opportunity gains they offer. We show that, under plausible assumptions, the ranking of the available screening programs for a particular disease, according to this new outcome measurement, do not depend on the metric of opportunity. We also apply our model to the current debate about choosing between a selective or a universal newborn hearing screening program to detect congenital hearing impairment.opportunities, potential success, screening programs

Solution-processed organic devices developed by a novel cost-effective patterning technique based on electrical erosion

Application of arc erosion to the patterning of metallic contacts in organic devices is presented. A home-made systems and details of the working principles are described. Advantages and drawbacks of this novel technology are discussed

A NEW OUTCOME MEASURE FOR COST-UTILITY ANALYSES OF SCREENING PROGRAMS

In this paper we provide a new outcome measure for the cost-utility analyses of alternative screening programs of a particular disease. We show that for non-invasive screening programs satisfying plausible assumptions, QALYs can be replaced by a simpler outcome: the sensitivity of the program. In other words, the cost-utility analysis can be made without computing the utility each program offers. Consequently, results would be immune to two of the most controversial issues in the cost-utility analysis approach: the elicitation method to obtain quality weights of health profiles, and the discount rate for future health benefits. The assumptions are particularly suitable in the case of selecting between the universal and the selective implementation of a non-invasive screening program. Therefore, we apply our result to provide an additional viewpoint in the current debate about the implementation of a universal or selective newborn screening program to detect congenital hearing impairment.Cost-utility analysis, cost-sensitivity ratios, screening programs,