bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Isoform-specific anti-MeCP2 antibodies confirm that expression of the e1 isoform strongly predominates in the brain
Authors: Kaddoum Lara , Panayotis Nicolas , Mazarguil Honoré , Giglia-Mari Giuseppina , Roux Jean Christophe , Joly Etienne 
Published: October 2013

Rett syndrome is a neurological disorder caused by mutations in the MECP2 gene. MeCP2 transcripts are alternatively spliced to generate two protein isoforms (MeCP2_e1 and MeCP2_e2) that differ at their N-termini. Whilst mRNAs for both forms are expressed ubiquitously, the one for MeCP2_e1 is more abundant than for MeCP2_e2 in the central nervous system. In transfected cells, both protein isoforms are nuclear and colocalize with densely methylated heterochromatic foci. With a view to understanding the physiological contribution of each isoform, and their respective roles in the pathogenesis of Rett syndrome, we set out to generate isoform-specific anti-MeCP2 antibodies. To this end, we immunized rabbits against the peptides corresponding to the short amino-terminal portions that are different between the two isoforms. The polyclonal antibodies thus obtained specifically detected their respective isoforms of MeCP2 in Neuro2a (N2A) cells transfected to express either form. Both antisera showed comparable sensitivities when used for Western blot or immunofluorescence, and were highly specific for their respective isoform. When those antibodies were used on mouse tissues, specific signals were easily detected for Mecp2_e1, whilst Mecp2_e2 was very difficult to detect by Western blot, and even more so by immunofluorescence. Our results thus suggest that brain cells express low amounts of the Mecp2-e2 isoform. Our findings are compatible with recent reports showing that MeCP2_e2 is dispensable for healthy brain function, and that it may be involved in the regulation of neuronal apoptosis and embryonic development.
False Biomarker Discovery due to Reactivity of a Commercial ELISA for CUZD1 with Cancer Antigen CA125
Authors: Prassas Ioannis , Brinc Davor , Farkona Sofia , Leung Felix , Dimitromanolakis Apostolos , Chrystoja Caitlin C , Brand Randall , Kulasingam Vathany , Blasutig Ivan M , Diamandis Eleftherios P 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

BACKGROUND
By using proteomics and bioinformatics, we have previously identified a group of highly pancreas-specific proteins as candidate pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) biomarkers. With the use of commercially available ELISAs, the performance of some of these candidates was initially evaluated in a relatively small serum cohort (n = 100 samples). This phase revealed that CUB and zona pellucida-like domains protein 1 (CUZD1) may represent a new, promising PDAC biomarker.

METHODS
We performed detailed experiments to investigate the specificity of the commercial CUZD1 ELISA assay. CUZD1 was expressed in house in both bacteria and yeast expression systems. Recombinant CUZD1 and biological samples containing CUZD1, as well as commercial CUZD1 ELISA standards, were analyzed by Western blot, size exclusion HPLC, and mass spectrometry (LC-MS Orbitrap).

RESULTS
We confirmed that instead of CUZD1, the commercial assay is recognizing a nonhomologous, known cancer antigen [cancer antigen 125 (CA125)].

CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that poor characterization of commercial ELISA assays is a factor that could lead to false biomarker discovery. To our knowledge, this is the first report documenting that a commercial ELISA marketed for one analyte (CUZD1) may, in fact, recognize a different, nonhomologous antigen (CA125).
Immunological screening for tumor cells in serous body fluids has added value with the CELL-DYN Sapphire
Authors: Keuren Jeffrey F.W. , Hoffmann Johannes J.M.L. , Leers Mathie P.G. 
Published: October 2013

AbstractConventional cytological examination has limited sensitivity for detecting tumor cells in serous body cavity effusions and therefore, adjuvant techniques are necessary for a reliable diagnosis. Flow cytometry has proven benefit in these circumstances. The aim of our study was to explore the feasibility of CELL-DYN Sapphire, an advanced hematology analyzer with flow cytometric capabilities, for detecting tumor cells in serous body fluids, using CD326 monoclonal antibodies, which are directed against the epithelial marker EpCAM.One hundred and five serous fluids (39 peritoneal and 66 pleural effusions) were analyzed by the CELL-DYN Sapphire using monoclonal antibody combinations CD3/CD19 and CD45/CD326. Of all samples a cytospin preparation was made and microscopically examined; the pathology findings served as a reference.Using a threshold of 1% CD326+ cells, CELL-DYN Sapphire identified nine out of 12 cases with tumor cells in the serous effusions (sensitivity 75%), whereas routine cytology found eight cases (sensitivity 67%). The combination of immunophenotyping and cytology identified all 12 cases with tumor cells in the effusion fluid (sensitivity 100%). The specificities were 92% and 100%, respectively.We demonstrated that it is feasible to run an immunophenotypic assay on CELL-DYN Sapphire for detecting tumor cells in serous body fluids. In addition, this study confirmed that a combination of conventional cytology and flow cytometry had a very high diagnostic yield in cases of carcinomatous effusions.
School-based intervention to promote healthy nutrition in Sousse, Tunisia
Authors: Kebaili Raoudha , Harrabi Imed , Maatoug Jihene , Ghammam Rim , Slim Slama , Ghannem Hassen 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Introduction: Obesity among children is a major risk factor for chronic diseases. School interventions programs can represent a mean to implement healthy nutrition attitudes at early ages. Our objective was to evaluate the effects of a school intervention program to promote healthy nutrition among adolescents, in terms of knowledge, behaviors and intention.
Methods: Quasi experimental study among urban students in Sousse, Tunisia with 2 groups, intervention and control. The intervention group had an interactive program integrated with school courses that promoted healthy nutrition habits. Both groups had a pre post evaluation.
Results: 2200 students aged from 12 to 16 participated to the pre post evaluation. In the intervention group, there were significant changes form pre to post test in knowledge, intentions, and behaviors. In the control group, almost no significant changes were observed.
Conclusion: School intervention programs can represent an interesting approach to promote healthy nutrition habits among adolescents.
Iranian university students’ perceived reproductive health needs
Authors: Shahhosseini Zohreh , Abedian Kobra 
Published: October 2013

Abstract

Aim: One proposed strategy to improve youth health is needs assessment, a process for determining and addressing the needs of individual groups. The aim of this study was to explore the attitudes and perceptions of Iranian university students toward reproductive health needs, in order to promote the provision of reproductive health services.

Methods: Using an anonymous self-administered questionnaire, a cross-sectional survey was conducted among 548 students who were randomly selected from eight universities in Sari City, Iran. Topics covered the participants’ attitudes towards reproductive health needs as well as their opinion about proper sources of information in this area, as measured using a 5-point Likert scale.

Results: The mean age of participants was 21.57 years, and 57.82% were female. The maximum score of perceived reproductive health needs was related to “Be informed about appropriate behavior with my spouse”, and the majority of students (82.82%) supported family-based reproductive health education with emphasis on the mothers’ role. Although 65.14% of the participants agreed that “When a young has been raped, it’s better that she/he counsel with her/his family”, 11.67% of them stated that she/he must hide the problem. Finally, we found that 60.40% of the students preferred someone in a health care center as the one to explain how to use any contraception that may be provided for them.

Conclusion: Taken as a whole, these findings support the critical importance of programming for university students as part of a comprehensive strategy to improve the health and development of young adults.
First molecular evidence for the presence of Crocidura pachyura (Mammalia, Soricidae) in Kabylie (Algeria)
Authors: Nicolas Violaine , Hamani Adel , Amrouche Lilya , Bensidhoum Messaoud , Boukhemza Mohamed , Doumandji Salaheddine , Denys Christiane 
Published: October 2013

AbstractTo date,
Inflammatory adipokines contribute to insulin resistance in active acromegaly and respond differently to different treatment modalities
Authors: Olarescu Nicoleta C , Ueland Thor , Godang Kristin , Lindberg-Larsen Rune , Jørgensen Jens Otto L , Bollerslev Jens 
Published: October 2013

BackgroundActive acromegaly is associated with insulin resistance, but it is uncertain whether inflammation in adipose tissue is a contributing factor.AimTo test if GH/IGF1 promotes inflammation in adipocytes, and if this is relevant for systemic insulin resistance in acromegaly. Furthermore, to investigate the effect of treatment modalities (transsphenoidal surgery (TS), somatostatin analogs (SAs), and pegvisomant (PGV)) on glucose metabolism and inflammatory biomarkers in acromegaly.MethodsThe in vitro effects of GH/IGF1 on gene expression of adipokines in human adipocytes were investigated. Body composition, glucose metabolism, and circulating adipokines (adiponectin (AD), high-molecular weight AD (HMWAD), leptin, vascular endothelial growth factor-A (VEGF-A), monocyte chemotactic protein 1 (MCP1), and thioredoxin (TRX)) were measured in 37 patients with active acromegaly before and after treatment.ResultsIn vitro GH, but not IGF1, increased VEGF and MCP1 in human adipocytes. In all treatment groups, body fat increased and IGF1 decreased to the same extent. Fasting glucose decreased in the TS (P=0.016) and PGV (P=0.042) groups, but tended to increase in the SA group (P=0.078). Insulin and HOMA-IR decreased in both TS and SA groups, while the PGV group showed no changes. Serum VEGF and MCP1 decreased significantly in the TS group only (P=0.010, P=0.002), while HMWAD increased with PGV treatment only (P=0.018). A multivariate analysis model identified the changes in GH and VEGF as predictors of improvement in HOMA-IR after treatment (R2=0.39, P=0.002).Conclusionsi) GH directly promotes inflammation of human adipocytes by increasing VEGF and MCP1 levels; ii) glucose metabolism and inflammation (VEGF and MCP1) improve to some extent after treatment, despite an increase in adipose tissue mass; and iii) the decrease in insulin resistance after therapy in acromegaly depends, to some extent, on treatment modalities.
No Correlations Between the Development of Specific IgA and IgM Antibodies Against Anti-TNF Blocking Agents, Disease Activity and Adverse Side Reactions in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Benucci Maurizio , Saviola Gianantonio , Meacci Francesca , Manfredi Mariangela , Infantino Maria , Campi Paolo , Severino Maurizio , Iorno Miriam , Sarzi-Puttini Piercarlo , Atzeni Fabiola 
Published: October 2013

The use of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antagonists (infliximab [IFN], etanercept [ETN], adalimumab [ADA]) has changed the course of many rheumatic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, some questions concerning their safety have emerged since their approval because they can trigger immunisation, induce rare type I and III hypersensitivity, and cause acute and delayed reactions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlations between hypersensitivity reactions to biological agents, disease activity and the development of class-specific IgA and IgM antibodies against the three anti-TNF agents in patients with RA.
This longitudinal observational study involved consecutive outpatients with active RA who started treatment with IFN (n=30), ETN (n=41) or ADA (n=28). Clinical data and systemic and local side effects were collected prospectively at baseline and after six months of anti-TNF treatment. Serum samples were taken at the same time points in order to measure antibodies against the TNF blockers, anti-nuclear (ANA) and anti-dsDNA antibodies. The IgA and IgM antibodies specific to all three anti-TNF-α agents were analysed using ImmunoCaP Phadia- Thermofisher especially developed in collaboration with the laboratory of Immunology and Allergy, San Giovanni di Dio, Florence.
The mean age of the 99 patients (86% females) was 54.6±12.4 years, and the median disease duration was 11.2±.3.2 years (range 3-14.3). The three treatment groups were comparable in terms of age, gender, rheumatoid factor and anti-citrullinated peptide (CCP) antibody positivity, and baseline C-reactive protein levels, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, 28-joint disease activity scores, and concomitant medications. Twelve patients treated with INF (40%) had anti-IFN IgM, and two (6%) anti-IFN IgA; 19 patients treated with ADA (68%) had anti-ADA IgM, and four (6%) anti-ADA IgA; and 27 patients treated with ETN (66%) had anti-ETN IgM, and 24 (58%) anti-ETN IgA. There were five systemic reactions in the IFN group, and seven adverse local reactions in both the ADA and the ETN group. There was no correlation between drug-specific IgA and IgM antibodies (p=0.65). There was also no correlation between the antibodies and disease activity after six months of treatment (r=0.189;p=0.32).
Our findings show that the development of antibodies against IFN, ADA or ETN of IgA and IgM class are not related to any decrease in efficacy or early discontinuation of anti-TNF treatment in RA patients, nor to systemic and local reactions. Further studies of larger series of RA patients are needed to confirm the relationships between the development of drug-specific antibodies, serum TNF blocker levels, and disease activity.
Psychopathological Organizations and Attachment Styles in Patients with Fear of Flying: A Case Study
Authors: Veronese Guido , Procaccia Rossella , Romaioli Diego , Barola Gianpiero , Castiglioni Marco 
Published: October 2013

Objectives:
The scope of the study is to identify the leading “organization of meaning” in patients affected by
aviophobia and the related attachment style. Specifically we hypothesized that participants with fear of flying would predominantly
display a phobic organization of meaning, associated with an anxious-ambivalent attachment style.

Methods:
150 adults, divided between an experimental group (FOF) and a control group (CON), completed three research
instruments: two self-report questionnaires assessing attachment style (AAQ and ASQ) and the self-characterization, a
qualitative constructivist tool.

Results:
The insecure attachment style prevailed in aviophobics rather than control group. Socio-economic and gender differences
were found. The vocabulary used by the group with flying phobia featured a system of meaning referring to
“freedom” family semantics.

Conclusions:
Attachment style appears to be a necessary but insufficient condition for predicting fear of flying. A greater
role in the disorder is played by the organization of patients' personality, as argued by socio-constructionist and constructivist
authors. Implication for clinical work and psychotherapy are discussed.
Bacteria-Derived DNA Fragment in Peritoneal Dialysis Effluent as a Predictor of Relapsing Peritonitis
Authors: Szeto Cheuk-Chun , Lai Ka-Bik , Kwan Bonnie Ching-Ha , Chow Kai-Ming , Leung Chi-Bon , Law Man-Ching , Yu Vincent , Li Philip Kam-Tao 
Published: October 2013

Summary

Background and objectives
Relapsing and recurrent peritonitis episodes are important causes of treatment failure in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD). This study explored whether the level of bacteria-derived DNA fragment in PD effluent predicts the development of relapsing or recurrent peritonitis.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements
The study included 143 patients with PD peritonitis in a dialysis unit between September 2010 and December 2011. Every 5 days until antibiotic treatment ended, PD effluent was collected to determine bacteria-derived DNA fragment level, which is represented by the number of PCR cycles at which bacterial DNA could be detected. Patients were followed for the development of relapsing or recurrent peritonitis.

Results
Thirty-nine patients were excluded because of immediate treatment failure or incorrect diagnosis. Of the other 104 patients, 15 (14.4%) developed relapsing peritonitis, 3 (2.9%) had recurrent peritonitis, and 5 (4.8%) had repeat episodes. Patients with relapsing or recurrent peritonitis episodes had significantly higher levels of bacterial DNA fragment in PD effluent than those without relapsing or recurrence, both 5 days before (31.9±3.4 versus 34.3±3.0 cycles; P=0.002) and on the day of (32.3±2.6 versus 34.1±1.7 cycles; P<0.001) completion of antibiotics. When bacterial DNA fragment detectable by 34 PCR cycles 5 days before the completion of antibiotics is used as the cutoff, it has a sensitivity of 88.9% and specificity of 60.5% for the prediction of relapsing or recurrent peritonitis.

Conclusions
Bacterial DNA fragment levels in PD effluent are significantly higher, both 5 days before and on the date of completion of antibiotics, among patients who subsequently develop relapsing or recurrent peritonitis than among those cured by antibiotics. Further studies are needed to validate these results and confirm the clinical utility of dialysate bacterial DNA fragment level.
Evaluation of risk factors associated with recurrent obstruction in cats treated medically for urethral obstruction
Authors: Eisenberg Beth W. , Waldrop Jennifer E. , Allen Sarah E. , Brisson Jennifer O. , Aloisio Kathryn M. , Horton Nicholas J. 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Objective—To determine risk factors for short-term recurrent urethral obstruction in cats after treatment by means of urinary catheterization and hospitalization.
Design—Prospective case series.
Animals—83 client-owned cats.
Procedures—Physical examination findings, laboratory abnormalities, treatment decisions, and environmental changes were evaluated as risk factors for recurrent urethral obstruction in the 30 days following hospital discharge.
Results—Of the 68 cats with completed follow-up surveys, 10 had an episode of recurrent urethral obstruction. Older cats were significantly more likely to have recurrent urethral obstruction. No specific laboratory abnormalities were associated with the risk of recurrent urethral obstruction. Longer duration of catheterization was significantly associated with a decreased risk of recurrent urethral obstruction. Duration of hospitalization and volume of IV fluids delivered were not significantly associated with recurrent urethral obstruction. Increasing water availability after discharge was associated with a decreased risk of recurrent urethral obstruction. There was no association between diet and recurrent urethral obstruction.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results of this study suggested that longer duration of catheterization may be associated with a lower probability of short-term recurrent urethral obstruction in male cats. Older cats were at higher risk for recurrent obstruction. Owners should be encouraged to increase water availability after discharge in cats treated for urethral obstruction to decrease the likelihood of recurrence.
Efficacy of two commercially available, low-magnesium, urine-acidifying dry foods for the dissolution of struvite uroliths in cats
Authors: Lulich Jody P. , Kruger John M. , MacLeay Jennifer M. , Merrills Jane M. , Paetau-Robinson Inke , Albasan Hasan , Osborne Carl A. 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Objective—To compare the efficacy and safety of using 2 commercially available, low-magnesium, urine-acidifying dry foods to dissolve sterile struvite uroliths in cats.
Design—Prospective, multicenter, randomized clinical trial
Sample—37 cats with presumed struvite uroliths.
Procedures—Cats were randomly assigned to be fed 1 of 2 low-magnesium, urine-acidifying dry foods (food A or B). For each cat, physical examination, urinalysis, and abdominal radiography were performed weekly to assess treatment response.
Results—32 cats had complete urolith dissolution. Mean ± SD times for a 50% reduction in urolith size (0.69 ± 0.1 weeks) and complete urolith dissolution (13.0 ± 2.6 days) were significantly shorter for cats fed food A, compared with those (1.75 ± 0.27 weeks and 27.0 ± 2.6 days, respectively) for cats fed food B. At study termination, mean ± SD urine pH (6.083 ± 0.105) for cats fed food A was lower than that (6.431 ± 0.109) for cats fed food B. In 5 cats, uroliths did not dissolve and were subsequently determined to be composed of 100% ammonium urate (n = 4) or 100% calcium oxalate (1). Adverse events associated with diet were not observed in any of the cats.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that dietary dissolution is safe and effective for eradication of sterile struvite uroliths in cats. Cats fed food A had faster urolith dissolution than did cats fed food B. Lack of a reduction in urolith size at 2 weeks after diet initiation was indicative of misdiagnosis or noncompliance.
Use of a hand-assisted laparoscopic surgical technique for closure of an extensive mesojejunal rent in a horse
Authors: Witte Thomas H. , Wilke Markus , Stahl Christina , Jandová Vendula , Haralambus Rhea , Straub Reto 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
Case Description—A 7-year-old 573-kg (1,261 -lb) Swiss Warmblood gelding was evaluated because of signs of acute abdominal pain.
Clinical Findings—Physical examination revealed a markedly distended abdomen with subjectively reduced borborygmi in all abdominal quadrants. A large, gas-distended viscus was present at the pelvic brim preventing complete palpation of the abdomen per rectum. Ultrasonographic evaluation could not be safely performed in the initial evaluation because of severe signs of abdominal pain.
Treatment and Outcome—Ventral midline celiotomy was performed, and right dorsal displacement of the ascending colon was corrected. Progressive signs of abdominal pain after surgery prompted repeat ventral midline celiotomy, and small intestinal incarceration in a large, radial mesojejunal rent was detected. The incarceration was reduced, but the defect was not fully accessible for repair via the celiotomy. Repair of the mesenteric defect was not attempted, and conservative management was planned after surgery; however, signs of colic returned. A standard laparoscopic approach was attempted from both flanks in the standing patient, but the small intestine could not be adequately mobilized for full evaluation of the rent. Hand-assisted laparoscopic surgery (HALS) allowed identification and reduction of jejunal incarceration and repair of the mesenteric rent. Although minor ventral midline incisional complications were encountered, the horse recovered fully.
Clinical Relevance—HALS techniques should be considered for repair of mesenteric rents in horses. In the horse of this report, HALS facilitated identification, evaluation, and repair of a large radial mesenteric rent that was not accessible from a ventral median celiotomy.
A class of exactly solvable models for the Schrödinger equation
Authors: Downing Charles 
Published: October 2013

Abstract
We present a class of confining potentials which allow one to reduce the one-dimensional Schrödinger equation to a named equation of mathematical physics, namely either Bessel’s or Whittaker’s differential equation. In all cases, we provide closed form expressions for both the symmetric and antisymmetric wavefunction solutions, each along with an associated transcendental equation for allowed eigenvalues. The class of potentials considered contains an example of both cusp-like single wells and a double-well.