bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assay for Measurement of Intact B-Type Natriuretic Peptide Prohormone in Blood
Authors: Giuliani Isabelle , Rieunier François , Larue Catherine , Delagneau Jean-François , Granier Claude , Pau Bernard , Ferrière Marc , Saussine Max , Cristol Jean-Paul , Dupuy Anne-Marie , Merigeon Emmanuel , Merle Delphine , Villard Sylvie 
Published: March 2006

AbstractBackground: B-Type natriuretic peptide (BNP1–32) as well as the N-terminal fragment of the prohormone containing residues 1–76 (NT-proBNP1–76), both cleavage products of the precursor proBNP1–108, are reported to be powerful markers for prognosis and risk stratification of heart failure. However, the intact precursor also circulates in the bloodstream. Assays for the detection of these cleavage products have been developed, but most of these assays may overestimate the concentrations of the cleavage products because they also measure the precursor form. It is therefore important to develop an immunoassay that specifically measures solely proBNP1–108 in plasma.Methods: After carefully designing the peptide used to immunize mice, we selected a specific monoclonal antibody (mAb Hinge76) that recognizes the cleavage site of proBNP1–108, an epitope present only in the precursor form. mAb Hinge76 recognizes recombinant proBNP1–108 in a dose-dependent manner, without any significant cross-reactivity with either recombinant NT-proBNP1–76 or synthetic BNP1–32. By combining mAb Hinge76 with a polyclonal antibody directed against BNP1–32, we were able to set up a proBNP1–108-specific sandwich immunoassay able to confirm the presence of proBNP1–108 in blood samples.Results: From a cohort of 50 healthy persons and 170 patients with congestive heart failure (CHF), our assay was able to differentiate healthy individuals from CHF patients (P &lt;0.005). Interestingly, plasma proBNP1–108 concentrations were correlated with New York Heart Association classification. Moreover, a close relationship between proBNP1–108 and BNP1–32 concentrations may exist, as a good correlation (r2 = 0.89) was obtained when their respective concentrations were compared.Conclusion: mAb Hinge76 is the first proBNP1–108-specific mAb produced that allows accurate estimation of proBNP1–108 concentrations in plasma.
Frequency of Thrombophilia-Related Genetic Variations in Patients with Idiopathic Pulmonary Embolism in an Urban Emergency Department
Authors: Kruse Lori , Mitchell Alice M , Camargo Carlos A , Hernandez Jackeline , Kline Jeffrey A 
Published: March 2006

Abstract
Background: The frequency of the thrombophilic genetic variants factor V Leiden (FVL) G1691A, prothrombin G20210A, and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T in acutely symptomatic ambulatory patients with idiopathic pulmonary embolism (PE) has not been measured.
Methods: This prospective case–control study included patients presenting to urban emergency departments (EDs) with chest pain or shortness of breath. Cases were classified as idiopathic PE (49 patients with PE, but without overt risk factors for thrombosis). Control groups included (a) patients with nonidiopathic PE (152 patients with PE and risk factors); (b) patients in whom PE was excluded (91 patients who had PE ruled out with a structured protocol, including follow-up); and (c) patients in whom PE was not suspected (193 patients without a workup for PE, who were free of PE on follow-up). Blood DNA extracts were analyzed by PCR and restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis for the FVL, prothrombin, and MTHFR sequence variations.
Results: Either the FVL or prothrombin variant was found in 10% (95% confidence interval, 3%–22%) of patients with idiopathic PE compared with 13% (8%–20%) of nonidiopathic PE, 2% (5%–14%) of PE excluded, and 9% (5%–14%) of PE not suspected patients. Patients with idiopathic PE tended to have a higher frequency of homozygous MTHFR sequence variants, but mean (SD) plasma homocysteine concentrations were not increased [15.6 (5.4) μmol/L vs 12.8 (4.6) μmol/L for homozygous, and wild-type, respectively; P = 0.40].
Conclusions: The frequency of either the FVL or prothrombin sequence variant was not increased in idiopathic PE patients compared with nonidiopathic PE patients or patients who had PE excluded. These data suggest that genotyping to detect idiopathic PE would have limited clinical utility in the urban ED setting.
Peptide Nucleic Acid–Based In Situ Hybridization Assay for Detection of Parvovirus B19 Nucleic Acids
Authors: Bonvicini Francesca , Filippone Claudia , Manaresi Elisabetta , Gentilomi Giovanna Angela , Zerbini Marialuisa , Musiani Monica , Gallinella Giorgio 
Published: March 2006

Abstract
Background: Peptide nucleic acid (PNA) molecules are known to bind complementary nucleic acid sequences with a much stronger affinity and with more stable binding than DNA or RNA molecules. We chose parvovirus B19, which is diagnosed by detection of nucleic acids by in situ hybridization assay (ISH) and/or PCR, as an experimental model to develop an ISH assay that uses biotinylated PNA probes to detect viral genome in clinical specimens.
Methods: We first optimized the PNA-ISH assay on B19-infected and mock-infected UT-7/EpoS1 cells and then tested the assay on archival B19 specimens and on consecutive specimens. All data were compared with data obtained with a standardized DNA-based ISH assay and confirmed by a PCR-ELISA.
Results: PNA-ISH detected B19 genome in a higher number of B19-infected UT-7/EpoS1 cells and with a more defined localization of viral nucleic acids than the standardized DNA-ISH assay. Moreover, PNA-ISH was able to detect B19 genome in all positive archival samples, whereas DNA-ISH failed in 5 samples. PNA-ISH detected more positive samples than DNA-ISH when consecutive specimens were analyzed, and a close agreement was found with PCR-ELISA results.
Conclusions: The PNA-ISH assay had sensitivity and specificity comparable to a PCR assay and was more practical and quicker to perform than standard hybridization assays. The assay may be a suitable diagnostic test for the detection of viral nucleic acids in clinical specimens.
HPLC Method for 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Measurement: Comparison with Contemporary Assays
Authors: Lensmeyer Gary L , Wiebe Donald A , Binkley Neil , Drezner Marc K 
Published: March 2006

Abstract
Background: The concentration of 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in serum has been designated the functional indicator of vitamin D (VitD) nutritional status. Unfortunately, variability among 25(OH)D assays limits clinician ability to monitor VitD status, supplementation, and toxicity.
Methods: We developed an HPLC method that selectively measures 25-hydroxyvitamin D2 [25(OH)D2] and D3 [25(OH)D3] and compared this assay with a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method, a competitive protein-binding assay (CPBA) on the Nichols Advantage™ platform, and an RIA from Diasorin.
Results: For the new HPLC assay, between-run CVs were 2.6%–4.9% for 25(OH)D3 and 3.2%–13% for 25(OH)D2; recoveries were 95%–102%; and the assay was linear from 5 μg/L to at least 200 μg/L. Comparison data were as follows: for HPLC vs LC-MS/MS, y = 1.01x − 4.82 μg/L (Sy|x = 4.93 μg/L; r = 0.996) for 25(OH)D3, and y = 0.902x − 0.566 μg/L (Sy|x = 2.56 μg/L; r = 0.9965 for 25(OH)D2; for HPLC vs Diasorin RIA, y = 0.709x − 5.86 μg/L (Sy|x = 7.35 μg/L; r = 0.7509); and for HPLC vs Nichols Advantage CPBA, y = 1.00x − 3.60 μg/L (Sy|x = 32.7 μg/L; r = 0.6823).
Conclusions: The new HPLC method is reliable, robust, and has advantages compared with the Nichols Advantage CPBA and the Diasorin RIA. The Nichols Advantage CPBA overestimated or underestimated 25(OH)D concentrations predicated on the prevailing metabolite present in patients’ sera.
Butyrylcholinesterase: Association with the Metabolic Syndrome and Identification of 2 Gene Loci Affecting Activity
Authors: Valle Anne , O’Connor Daniel T , Taylor Palmer , Zhu Gu , Montgomery Grant W , Slagboom P Eline , Martin Nicholas G , Whitfield John B 
Published: March 2006

AbstractBackground: Plasma cholinesterase activity is known to be correlated with plasma triglycerides, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol, and other features of the metabolic syndrome. A role in triglyceride metabolism has been proposed. Genetic variants that decrease activity have been studied extensively, but the factors contributing to overall variation in the population are poorly understood. We studied plasma cholinesterase activity in a sample of 2200 adult twins to assess covariation with cardiovascular risk factors and components of the metabolic syndrome, to determine the degree of genetic effects on enzyme activity, and to search for quantitative trait loci affecting activity.Methods and Results: Cholinesterase activity was lower in women than in men before the age of 50, but increased to activity values similar to those in males after that age. There were highly significant correlations with variables associated with the metabolic syndrome: plasma triglyceride, HDL- and LDL-cholesterol, apolipoprotein B and E, urate, and insulin concentrations; γ-glutamyltransferase and aspartate and alanine aminotransferase activities; body mass index; and blood pressure. The heritability of plasma cholinesterase activity was 65%. Linkage analysis with data from the dizygotic twin pairs showed suggestive linkage on chromosome 3 at the location of the cholinesterase (BCHE) gene and also on chromosome 5.Conclusions: Our results confirm and extend the connection between cholinesterase, cardiovascular risk factors, and metabolic syndrome. They establish a substantial heritability for plasma cholinesterase activity that might be attributable to variation near the structural gene and at an independent locus.
Quantitative Analysis of SRNPN Gene Methylation by Pyrosequencing as a Diagnostic Test for Prader–Willi Syndrome and Angelman Syndrome
Authors: White Helen E , Durston Victoria J , Harvey John F , Cross Nicholas CP 
Published: March 2006

Abstract
Background: Angelman syndrome (AS) and Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) are 2 distinct neurodevelopmental disorders caused primarily by deficiency of specific parental contributions at an imprinted domain within the chromosomal region 15q11.2-13. In most cases, lack of paternal contribution leads to PWS either by paternal deletion (∼70%) or maternal uniparental disomy (UPD; ∼30%). Most cases of AS result from the lack of a maternal contribution from this same region by maternal deletion (∼70%) or by paternal UPD (∼5%). Analysis of allelic methylation differences at the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N (SNRPN) locus can differentiate the maternally and paternally inherited chromosome 15 and can be used as a diagnostic test for AS and PWS.
Methods: Sodium bisulfite–treated genomic DNA was PCR-amplified for the SNRPN gene. We used pyrosequencing to individually quantify the resulting artificial C/T sequence variation at CpG sites. Anonymized DNA samples from PWS patients (n = 40), AS patients (n = 31), and controls (n = 81) were analyzed in a blinded fashion with 2 PCR and 3 pyrosequencing reactions. We compared results from the pyrosequencing assays with those obtained with a commonly used methylation-specific PCR (MS-PCR) diagnostic protocol.
Results: The pyrosequencing assays had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and provided quantification of methylation at 12 CpG sites within the SNRPN locus. The resulting diagnoses were 100% concordant with those obtained from the MS-PCR protocol.
Conclusions: Pyrosequencing is a rapid and robust method for quantitative methylation analysis of the SNRPN locus and can be used as a diagnostic test for PWS and AS.
Quantification of Fragments of Human Serum Inter-α-Trypsin Inhibitor Heavy Chain 4 by a Surface-Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization-Based Immunoassay
Authors: Song Jin , Patel Manisha , Rosenzweig C Nicole , Chan-Li Yee , Sokoll Lori J , Fung Eric T , Choi-Miura Nam-Ho , Goggins Michael , Chan Daniel W , Zhang Zhen 
Published: March 2006

AbstractBackground: Several proteolytically derived fragments from the proline-rich region (PRR) of human inter-α-trypsin inhibitor heavy chain 4 (ITIH4) have been identified by surface-enhanced or matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (SELDI-TOF-MS or MALDI-TOF-MS) as potential disease markers.Methods: Previously, we developed a SELDI-based immunoassay that can simultaneously distinguish and quantify multiple isoforms/variants of a protein/peptide of interest. In this study, we used this high-throughput approach to quantify and characterize the extensive fragmentation within the PRR of human serum ITIH4 and determined its association with different disease conditions. The ITIH4-related fragments were first immunocaptured by use of beads coupled with peptide-specific antibodies. The eluates were then studied by SELDI-TOF-MS. In addition, freshly collected and immediately processed serum and plasma samples were used to analyze the ex vivo stability of these ITIH4 fragments.Results: Human serum ITIH4 was shown to be extensively proteolytically processed within the PRR, and its fragmentation patterns were closely associated with different disease conditions. Fragmentation patterns were generally consistent with cleavages by endoprotease followed by exoprotease actions. Observed fragments changed little under different assay conditions or blood collection and processing procedures.Conclusions: The fragmentation patterns within the PRR of human serum ITIH4 are associated with different disease conditions and may hold important diagnostic information. These fragmentation patterns could be useful as potential biomarkers for detection and classification of cancer.
Outsourcing and Digitized Work Spaces: Some Implications of the Intersections of Globalization, Development, and Work Practices
Authors: Smith Beatrice Quarshie 
Published: March 2006

Drawing on an ongoing project examining the literacies prevalent at an outsourcing site, this article explores the changing nature of workplace practices enabled by new information and communication technologies. It also examines the complex geopolitical dynamics of these practices, the discourses of development, and globalization. The author identifies the tensions and contradictions that the demands for “new” work and new work practices create for communities as they seek access to the benefits of globalization.The key arguments of the article are that
Cyber work and its practices in these new locations have social, cultural, and political implications
Workplace studies must move beyond studies of how technologies are shaping work in industrialized economies if we are going to understand work in the 21st century
Research and advocacy offers communities possibilities for creating work spaces that are helpful to sustainable development but which also mitigate some of the consequences of globalization
Rationale for Systematic Vocabulary Development: Antidote for State Mandates
Authors: Manzo Anthony V. , Manzo Ula C. , Thomas Matthew M. 
Published: March 2006

The authors assert that vocabulary development is one of the most important things teachers can promote for students—cognitively, culturally, socially, and in preparation for standardized tests. A broad‐based review of the literature reveals solid reasons for using systematic vocabulary instruction, which is especially helpful with youngsters from second‐language or disenfranchised backgrounds. Yet, in U.S. schools, systematic instruction in vocabulary has been cyclical rather than sustained.The authors note that learners from Latin‐language backgrounds likely have an unappreciated advantage in learning difficult words. The specialized, Latin‐derivative terms that occur infrequently in common usage tend to occur frequently on standardized tests.Several research‐supported ways to improve vocabulary acquisition are highlighted, including one that uses a variation on signing. The authors offer a “community of language” approach and show how wide reading can be amplified by intentional, frequent, day‐to‐day use of specific terms by school faculty and staff.
Dialogic narratives of literacy, teaching, and schooling: Preparing literacy teachers for diverse settings
Authors: ROGERS THERESA , MARSHALL ELIZABETH , TYSON CYNTHIA A. 
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACTSIn this study, we focus on the “dialogic narratives” (Bakhtin, 1981, 1986) of selected preservice teachers within an innovative teacher education program in the Midwestern U.S. that included community‐based internships. In particular, we examine how these students author their identities as literacy teachers within the context of a mediated seminar setting. Drawing on Bakhtin's theory of discourse, we analyzed students' dialogic narratives as a way to understand the construction of their professional identities within particular discursive moments. Our analyses illustrate how the students negotiated authoritative and internally persuasive discourses as they authored their own narratives, revealing the complexity of preparing teachers to become flexible cultural practitioners in diverse settings. We argue that immersing students in community based environments and providing spaces for dialogue offer promising strategies for complicating and deepening preservice teachers' understandings of, and approaches to, language and literacy education in relation to issues of cultural diversity and social justice.[This article features supplementary online‐only material, including commentaries from Marilyn Cochran‐Smith and Allan Luke and Tara Goldstein, an annotated bibliography, and extensive data samples. See http:www.reading.orgLibraryRetrieve.cfmD10.1598RRQ.41.2.3&FRRQ‐41‐2‐Rogers‐supp_1.html.]
Rethinking the meaning of difference: Contemporary challenges for researchers and practitioners in literacy and language education
Authors: ECKERT LISA SCHADE , TURNER JENNIFER D. , ALSUP JANET , KNOELLER CHRISTIAN 
Published: March 2006

Book reviewed in this article:Handbook of Language and Literacy: Development and Disorders. Edited by C. Addison Stone, Elaine R. Silliman, Barbara J. Ehren, & Kenn Apel. 2004.
Oral Reading Fluency Norms: A Valuable Assessment Tool for Reading Teachers
Authors: Hasbrouck Jan , Tindal Gerald A. 
Published: March 2006

In 1992, the authors collaborated to develop a set of norms for oral reading fluency for grades 2–5. Since then, interest in and awareness of fluency has greatly increased, and Hasbrouck and Tindal have collaborated further to compile an updated and expanded set of norms for grades 1–8.This article discusses the application of these norms to three important assessment activities related to improving students' reading achievement:
Screening students for possible reading problems
Diagnosing deficits in students' fluency
Monitoring the progress of students receiving supplementary instruction or intensive intervention in reading
An overview of the history and purpose for developing measures of oral reading fluency is also presented.
Building Literacy Skills Across the Curriculum: Forging Connections With the Past Through Artifacts
Authors: Fuhler Carol J. , Farris Pamela J. , Nelson Pamela A. 
Published: March 2006

A historical artifact has stories to tell. Using artifacts, from primary documents to objects that can be held in the hand, is a motivational strategy that brings a period of history to life. Motivated learners think critically, write, collaborate, develop research skills, and deepen knowledge about another time and place. In addition, they apply cognitive skills in using content area texts more effectively and efficiently.Supported by a strong theory base, this approach of using artifacts makes wise use of classroom time. Both students and teachers will find that artifacts contribute to integrating and learning across the curriculum. Fiction and nonfiction titles along with relevant websites are tied to several accessible historical artifacts to model options for using this motivational approach in the classroom.
Associations among Listeria monocytogenes genotypes and distinct clinical manifestations of listeriosis in cattle
Authors: Pohl Mary Ann , Wiedmann Martin , Nightingale Kendra K. 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Objective—To determine whether specific strains of Listeria monocytogenes, as determined by genetic characteristics and virulence phenotypes, were associated with distinct clinical manifestations of listeriosis in cattle and thus may potentially have tissue specificity.
Animals—32 cattle.
Procedure—DNA sequence data for the virulence genes actAand inlAwere used to infer the phylogeny of L monocytogenes and to test for positive selection. Isolates were screened for the presence or absence of internalin genes and assigned an internalin profile. Plaquing assays were performed to determine the relative cytopathogenicity of each isolate. Categorical data analyses were performed to describe associations among L monocytogenes genotypes, virulence phenotypes, and clinical manifestations of listeriosis.
Results—Results confirmed that L monocytogenes represents 2 deeply separated evolutionary lineages. Genes actA and inlA contained amino acid sites under positive selection, and specific residues at some sites were associated with lineage and manifestation of listeriosis. Whereas lineage I was clonal and predominantly composed of isolates from cases of encephalitis, lineage II was more genetically diverse and equally represented by isolates from cases of encephalitis versus septicemia and fetal infection. Lineage I isolates also had greater cytopathogenicity in vitro, compared with lineage II isolates.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results indicated that L monocytogenes virulence genes underwent positive selection that is consistent with the diversification of 2 evolutionary lineages: lineage I is clonal and associated with encephalitis, and lineage II is more genetically diverse and equally likely to cause both major forms of listeriosis in cattle.
Endotoxin-neutralizing activity of polymyxin B in blood after IV administration in horses
Authors: Morresey Peter R. , MacKay Robert J. 
Published: April 2006

Abstract
Objectives—To measure serum polymyxin B concentration after single and repeated IV infusions in horses.
Animals—5 healthy horses.
Procedures—In study 1, 1 mg (6,000 U) of polymyxin B/kg was given IV and blood samples were collected for 24 hours. In study 2, 1 mg of polymyxin B/kg was given IV every 8 hours for 5 treatments and blood samples were collected until 24 hours after the last dose. Polymyxin B concentration was measured as the ability to suppress nitrite production by murine macrophages stimulated with lipopolysaccharide and interferon-α. Urine was collected prior to the first drug infusion and 24 hours after the fifth drug infusion for determination of urinary γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT)to-creatinine ratios.
Results—In study 1, mean ± SEM maximal serum polymyxin B concentration was 2.93 ± 0.38 μg/mL. Polymyxin B was undetectable 18 hours after infusion. In study 2, maximal polymyxin B concentrations after the first and fifth doses were 2.98 ± 0.81 μg/mL and 1.91 ± 0.50 μg/mL, respectively. Mean trough concentration for all doses was 0.22 ± 0.01 μg/mL. A significant effect of repeated administration on peak and trough serum concentration was not detected. Urine GGT-to-creatinine ratios were not affected by polymyxin B administration.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Polymyxin B given as multiple infusions to healthy horses by use of this protocol did not accumulate in the vascular compartment and appeared safe. Results support repeated IV use of 1 mg of polymyxin B/kg at 8-hour intervals as treatment for endotoxemia.