bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive analysis of gene expression patterns of hedgehog-related genes
Authors: Hao Limin , Johnsen Robert , Lauter Gilbert , Baillie David , Bürglin Thomas R 
Published: October 2006

AbstractBackgroundTheCaenorhabditis elegansgenome encodes ten proteins that share sequence similarity with the Hedgehog signaling molecule through their C-terminal autoprocessing Hint/Hog domain. These proteins contain novel N-terminal domains, andC. elegansencodes dozens of additional proteins containing only these N-terminal domains. These gene families are calledwarthog,groundhog,ground-likeandquahog, collectively calledhedgehog(hh)-related genes. Previously, the expression pattern of seventeen genes was examined, which showed that they are primarily expressed in the ectoderm.ResultsWith the completion of theC. elegansgenome sequence in November 2002, we reexamined and identified 61hh-related ORFs. Further, we identified 49hh-related ORFs inC. briggsae. ORF analysis revealed that 30% of the genes still had errors in their predictions and we improved these predictions here. We performed a comprehensive expression analysis using GFP fusions of the putative intergenic regulatory sequence with one or two transgenic lines for most genes. Thehh-related genes are expressed in one or a few of the following tissues: hypodermis, seam cells, excretory duct and pore cells, vulval epithelial cells, rectal epithelial cells, pharyngeal muscle or marginal cells, arcade cells, support cells of sensory organs, and neuronal cells. Using time-lapse recordings, we discovered that somehh-related genes are expressed in a cyclical fashion in phase with molting during larval development. We also generated several translational GFP fusions, but they did not show any subcellular localization. In addition, we also studied the expression patterns of two genes with similarity to Drosophilafrizzled, T23D8.1 and F27E11.3A, and the ortholog of the Drosophila genedally-like,gpn-1, which is a heparan sulfate proteoglycan. The twofrizzledhomologs are expressed in a few neurons in the head, andgpn-1is expressed in the pharynx. Finally, we compare the efficacy of our GFP expression effort with EST, OST and SAGE data.ConclusionNo bona-fide Hh signaling pathway is present inC. elegans. Given that thehh-related gene products have a predicted signal peptide for secretion, it is possible that they constitute components of the extracellular matrix (ECM). They might be associated with the cuticle or be present in soluble form in the body cavity. They might interact with the Patched or the Patched-related proteins in a manner similar to the interaction of Hedgehog with its receptor Patched.
Synaptic proteins as multi-sensor devices of neurotransmission
Authors: Brachya Guy , Yanay Chava , Linial Michal 
Published: October 2006

Abstract
Neuronal communication is tightly regulated in time and space. Following neuronal activation, an electrical signal triggers neurotransmitter (NT) release at the active zone. The process starts by the signal reaching the synapse followed by a fusion of the synaptic vesicle (SV) and diffusion of the released NT in the synaptic cleft. The NT then binds to the appropriate receptor and induces a membrane potential change at the target cell membrane. The entire process is controlled by a fairly small set of synaptic proteins, collectively called SYCONs. The biochemical features of SYCONs underlie the properties of NT release.
SYCONs are characterized by their ability to detect and respond to changes in environmental signals. For example, consider synaptotagmin I (Syt1), a prototype of a protein family with over 20 gene and variants in mammals. Syt1 is a specific example of a multi-sensor device with a large repertoire of discrete states. Several of these states are stimulated by a local concentration of signaling molecules such as Ca2+. The ability of this protein to sense signaling molecules and to adopt multiple biochemical states is shared by other SYCONs such as the synapsins (Syns). Specific biochemical states of Syns determine the accessibility of SV for NT release. Each of these states is defined by a specific alternative spliced variant with a unique profile of phosphorylation modified sites.
The plasticity of the synapse is a direct reflection of SYCON's multiple biochemical states. State transitions occurs in a wide range of time scales, and therefore these molecules need to cope with events that last milliseconds (i.e., exocytosis in fast responding synapses) and with events that can carry on for many minutes (i.e., organization of SV pools). We suggest that SYCONs are optimized throughout evolution as multi-sensor devices. A full repertoire of the switches leading to alternation of protein states and a detailed characterization of protein-protein network within the synapse is critical for the development of a dynamic model of synaptic transmission.
Radiological, pathological and DNA remission in recurrent metastatic nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Chan Stephen L , Hui Edwin P , Leung Sing F , Chan Anthony TC , Ma Brigette BY 
Published: October 2006

Abstract

Background
Circulating plasma Epstein Barr Virus DNA (EBV-DNA) is a sensitive and specific marker of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The mainstay of treatment of metastatic NPC is systemic chemotherapy and resection for solitary metastasis. Despite high response rate to chemotherapy, complete remission is uncommonly seen.

Case Presentation
We report a case of recurrent metastatic NPC in a 43-year-old man, who achieved complete remission three times with chemotherapy and surgery. Serial plasma EBV-DNA levels were measured during the course of disease. The patient had three episodes of recurrences of NPC manifested as distant metastasis. Both time, rise in the plasma EBV-DNA level preceded detection of recurrences by imaging. Following systemic chemotherapy, he achieved complete remission each time, of which was confirmed by 18-flourodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography and hepatectomy pathology. The plasma EBV-DNA level dropped to zero copy/ml at the time of each remission.

Conclusion
This case highlights the high chemosensitivity of NPC by illustrating a rare occurrence of complete response of metastatic NPC to chemotherapy. This case also underscores the usefulness of EBV-DNA as a useful tool in monitoring NPC by its ability to detect early recurrence and excellent correlation with treatment response.
Health-related quality of life in diabetic patients and controls without diabetes in refugee camps in the Gaza strip: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Eljedi Ashraf , Mikolajczyk Rafael T , Kraemer Alexander , Laaser Ulrich 
Published: October 2006

Abstract

Background
Prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing in developed and developing countries. Diabetes is known to strongly affect the health-related quality of life (HRQOL). HRQOL is also influenced by living conditions. We analysed the effects of having diabetes on HRQOL under the living conditions in refugee camps in the Gaza strip.

Methods
We studied a sample of 197 diabetic patients who were recruited from three refugee camps in the Gaza strip and 197 age- and sex-matched controls living in the same camps. To assess HRQOL, we used the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire (WHOQOL-BREF) including four domains (physical health, psychological, social relations and environment). Domain scores were compared for cases (diabetic patients) and controls (persons without diabetes) and the impact of socio-economic factors was evaluated in both groups.

Results
All domains were strongly reduced in diabetic patients as compared to controls, with stronger effects in physical health (36.7 vs. 75.9 points of the 0–100 score) and psychological domains (34.8 vs. 70.0) and weaker effects in social relationships (52.4 vs. 71.4) and environment domains (23.4 vs. 36.2). The impact of diabetes on HRQOL was especially severe among females and older subjects (above 50 years). Low socioeconomic status had a strong negative impact on HRQOL in the younger age group (<50 years).

Conclusion
HRQOL is strongly reduced in diabetic patients living in refugee camps in the Gaza strip. Women and older patients are especially affected.
Morphologic and immunophenotypic evidence of in-situ Kaposi's sarcoma
Authors: Konstantinopoulos Panagiotis A , Dezube Bruce J , Pantanowitz Liron 
Published: October 2006

Abstract

Background
The spectrum of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS) has been expanded to include pre-KS lesions.

Case Presentation
We report, for the first time, a case providing direct histological evidence of the development of early (in-situ) KS from mediastinal lymphatic vessels in the setting of chronic lymphedema in an HIV-positive patient. Spindle-shaped and endothelial cells in these early KS-appearing lesions were immunoreactive for HHV8, D2-40 and CD34.

Conclusion
Our findings suggest that HHV8-infected spindle-shaped cells associated with lymphangiogenesis that evolve into KS lesions, acquire from the outset an aberrant mixed vascular and lymphatic endothelial cell phenotype.
An improved and highly sensitive microfluorimetric method for assessing susceptibility of Plasmodium falciparum to antimalarial drugs in vitro
Authors: Quashie Neils B , de Koning Harry P , Ranford-Cartwright Lisa C 
Published: October 2006

Abstract

Background
The standard in vitro protocol currently in use for drug testing against Plasmodium falciparum, based on the incorporation of the purine [3H]-hypoxanthine, has two serious drawbacks. Firstly it is unsuitable for the testing of drugs that directly or indirectly impact on purine salvage or metabolism. Secondly, it relies on the use of expensive radiolabelled material, with added issues concerning detection, storage and waste disposal that make it unsuitable for use in many disease-endemic areas. Recently, the use of fluorochromes has been suggested as an alternative, but quenching of the fluorescence signal by the haemoglobin present in cultures of Plasmodium falciparum-infected erythrocytes severely limits the usefulness of this approach.

Methods
In order to resolve this problem, a new PicoGreen®-based procedure has been developed which incorporates additional steps to remove the interfering haemoglobin. The 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of chloroquine and pyrimethamine against P. falciparum laboratory lines 3D7 and K1 were determined using the new protocol.

Results
The IC50 values of chloroquine and pyrimethamine against P. falciparum laboratory lines 3D7 and K1 determined with the new fluorescence-based protocol were statistically identical to those obtained using the traditional 3H-hypoxanthine incorporation method, and consistent with literature values.

Conclusion
The new method proved to be accurate, reproducible and sensitive, and has the advantage of being non-radioactive. The improved PicoGreen® method has the potential to replace traditional in vitro drug resistance assay techniques.
Inorganic phosphate nanorods are a novel fluorescent label in cell biology
Authors: Patra Chitta Ranjan , Bhattacharya Resham , Patra Sujata , Basu Sujit , Mukherjee Priyabrata , Mukhopadhyay Debabrata 
Published: October 2006

Abstract
We report the first use of inorganic fluorescent lanthanide (europium and terbium) ortho phosphate [LnPO4·H2O, Ln = Eu and Tb] nanorods as a novel fluorescent label in cell biology. These nanorods, synthesized by the microwave technique, retain their fluorescent properties after internalization into human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC), 786-O cells, or renal carcinoma cells (RCC). The cellular internalization of these nanorods and their fluorescence properties were characterized by fluorescence spectroscopy (FS), differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy, confocal microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). At concentrations up to 50 μg/ml, the use of [3H]-thymidine incorporation assays, apoptosis assays (TUNEL), and trypan blue exclusion illustrated the non-toxic nature of these nanorods, a major advantage over traditional organic dyes
Predicting a local recurrence after breast-conserving therapy by gene expression profiling
Authors: Nuyten Dimitry SA , Kreike Bas , Hart Augustinus AM , Chi Jen-Tsan Ashley , Sneddon Julie B , Wessels Lodewyk FA , Peterse Hans J , Bartelink Harry , Brown Patrick O , Chang Howard Y , van de Vijver Marc J 
Published: October 2006

Abstract
Introduction
To tailor local treatment in breast cancer patients there is a need for predicting ipsilateral recurrences after breast-conserving therapy. After adequate treatment (excision with free margins and radiotherapy), young age and incompletely excised extensive intraductal component are predictors for local recurrence, but many local recurrences can still not be predicted. Here we have used gene expression profiling by microarray analysis to identify gene expression profiles that can help to predict local recurrence in individual patients.

Methods
By using previously established gene expression profiles with proven value in predicting metastasis-free and overall survival (wound-response signature, 70-gene prognosis profile and hypoxia-induced profile) and training towards an optimal prediction of local recurrences in a training series, we establish a classifier for local recurrence after breast-conserving therapy.

Results
Validation of the different gene lists shows that the wound-response signature is able to separate patients with a high (29%) or low (5%) risk of a local recurrence at 10 years (sensitivity 87.5%, specificity 75%). In multivariable analysis the classifier is an independent predictor for local recurrence.

Conclusion
Our findings indicate that gene expression profiling can identify subgroups of patients at increased risk of developing a local recurrence after breast-conserving therapy.
Auditing the care programme approach for people with learning disability: a 4-year audit cycle
Authors: Ali Afia , Hall Ian , Taylor Claire , Attard Stephen , Hassiotis Angela 
Published: October 2006

Aims and MethodAnnual audits of the enhanced care programme approach (CPA) were conducted from 2002 to 2005 to evaluate and improve the implementation of CPA in two inner-London community learning disability services. The CPA standards included those stipulated by the Department of Health. The notes of all patients on enhanced CPA were analysed using a structured data collection form.ResultsThere was a gradual improvement in the attainment of targets by both services. Areas of strength included allocating a date for the next CPA review, crisis plans and documentation of service users' comments. Areas of weakness included completion and review of risk assessments and the availability of a care plan for the previous 6 months.Clinical ImplicationsCompleting the audit cycle and reauditing improves attainment of targets and encourages service development, but further progress is required.
Posterior table fractures of the frontal sinus: I. an experimental study
Authors: Hybels Roger L. , Newman M. Haskell 
Published: October 2006

AbstractExperiments using cats were performed to examine the natural history of posterior table fractures of the frontal sinus and the methods available for treatment. Elevation of depressed fractures and obliteration by either fat or osteoneogenesis and fibrosis were the modalities of treatment used. Comparisons were made with untreated controls. Fascia reinforcement of the dura and plugging of the nasofrontal duct were variables.The nasofrontal duct is critical in the natural history of these injuries. All fractures of the posterior table heal if drainage into the nose is maintained. Fractures which are elevated heal by bony union with associated mucosal and dural healing. Loose fragments of the posterior table heal if left in place. Mucoceles form if the nasofrontal duct is obstructed, if mu‐cosa is inadequately removed during obliteration and, in some instances, where islands of mucosa are isolated by mucosal laceration. Viable adipose tissue in the sinus prevents significant ingrowth of mucosa from the nasofrontal duct. Growth of mucosa into fracture lines was not a problem. Both adipose transplants and intrasinus fascia reinforcement appeared to contribute to well defined posterior table healing.
Tympanic membrane keratoma (cholesteatoma) in children with no prior otologic surgery
Authors: Smith Ray , Moran Willard B. 
Published: October 2006

AbstractThree children whose eardrums appeared normal upon previous examinations, one with the otomicroscope, apparently developed tympanic membrane cholesteatomas that penetrated the fibrous layer of the pars tensa. Their histories all included episodes of acute otitis media, but no otorrhea. No otologic surgical procedures, including myringotomy, had been performed. These cases are thought to provide clinical support for the basal epithelial migration theory of cholesteatoma genesis.Rüedi's experiments suggest that cholesteatomas resulting from basal epithelial migration may not be visible for 18 to 30 days; thus, follow‐up evaluations after acute otitis media should probably include examinations one and two months after the infection. Pediatricians and family physicians should be urged to seek otologic consultation for patients with even minor eardrum abnormalities, particularly those following infection.
Sublabial mucosal flap: Repair of septal perforations
Authors: Tardy M. Eugene 
Published: October 2006

AbstractThe majority of perforations of the nasal septum, regardless of etiology, create little more than an annoyance to the patient. Perf orations commonly may be totally asymptomatic, discovered only on careful nasal examination. It is reasonable to assume, therefore, that only those septal defects creating important symptoms are deserving of repair and correction. Heavy crusting, recalcitrant bleeding and impending or actual loss of dorsal support are justifications for perforation closure.Textbooks and journals abound with suggested varieties of techniques of repair, testifying to the non‐effectiveness of any one suitable approach. Local mucosal flaps, turbinate flaps, pedicle skin flaps, and free grafts of skin, dermis, perichondrium, cartilage, and fascia have all been employed with variable results. An inadequate blood supply and unfavorable scarred host bed commonly lead to failure of the above reconstruction methods.In the past five years a horizontal mucosal flap derived from the under‐surface of the upper lip has proved reliable and expedient in septal perforation re‐epithelialization and closure. The reconstructive procedure is not technically difficult and leads to minimal patient discomfort.
Mycotic infections of the inner ear
Authors: Meyerhoff William L. , Paparella Michael M. , Oda Makoto , Shea Donald 
Published: October 2006

AbstractMycotic infections of the inner ear have only rarely been reported. In each reported case, involvement of the inner ear appeared to be secondary to overwhelming central nervous system disease. A review of specimens from the University of Minnesota temporal bone collection has identified three distinct routes of inner ear involvement by fungi suggesting the potential pathogenesis for this disease to be similar to that identified for bacterial labyrinthitis (tympanogenic, meningogenic, hematogenic).The first case, a 48‐year‐old white male with leukemia, died of mucor meningoencephalitis. Temporal bone study revealed Mucor sp. in the arterioles of the temporal bone as well as fungal involvement of the perilymphatic space secondary to round window invasion, oval window invasion, and invasion through the internal auditory canal. The second case was a 69‐year‐old white male, diabetic, who died of Klebsiella septicemia. Post mortem temporal bone study revealed a focus of Candida sp. in the vestibule under the stapedial footplate without apparent involvement of the internal auditory canal. Case 3 was a 16‐year‐old male with lymphosarcoma who died of septicemia and candida meningoencephalitis. Candida sp. could be seen in the scala tympani adjacent to Rosenthal's canals presumably secondary to spread from the central nervous system. The fourth case, that of a 28‐year‐old white female with systemic candidiasis, had sequential ante mortem audiograms demonstrating progressive bilateral sensorineural hearing loss. Post mortem histologic examination of the temporal bones identified candida involvement of the inner ear which appeared to be hematogenic in origin.These four cases demonstrate conclusive examples of inner ear involvement of fungal disease by the tympanogenic, meningogenic, and hematogenic routes.
Surgical management of brain tissue herniation into the middle ear and mastoid
Authors: Glasscock Michael E. , Dickins John R. E. , Jackson C. Gary , Wiet Richard J. , Feenstra Loow 
Published: October 2006

AbstractIn the well pneumatized temporal bone, the temporal lobe of the brain is separated from the middle ear and mastoid process by a thin layer of bone known as the tegmen. Congenital defects, infection, and trauma can alter this structure in such a way that cerebral tissue herniates into the ear. This unusual condition may precipitate numerous otologic problems such as hearing loss, trapped squamous epithelium, and the potential for meningitis or encephalitis.The purpose of this paper is to define the problem as well as discuss the diagnosis and surgical management. The authors feel this should be a team effort, in many cases employing the assistance of a neurosurgeon, as the repair must often be intradural. Case histories and an extensive review of the literature are to be included.
Middle ear ventilation in conjunction with adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Leek Joseph H. 
Published: October 2006

AbstractThis report continues the evaluation of the use of a ventilation tube in the middle ear at the time of adenotonsillectomy. This series of 72 cases has been followed for 1 to 3 years. Each patient had bilaterally similar middle ear effusions. A myringotomy was performed in both ears. In one of the ears a ventilation tube was inserted, the other ear acting as a control.In 3 out of 4 of the patients in this study, adenotonsillectomy and evacuation of the middle ear fluid were sufficient to clear the middle ear indefinitely, and the use of the ventilation tube was redundant.
Human laryngeal reinnervation: The Northwestern experience
Authors: Applebaum Edward L. , Allen George W. , Sisson George A. 
Published: October 2006

AbstractRecent publications have reported impressive success with laryngeal reinnervation utilizing a nerve‐muscle pedicle. This innovative surgical procedure is claimed to be useful for unilateral and bilateral vocal cord paralysis. Although the surgical results reported by Tucker have been good, they have lacked corroboration from other centers. We have performed six laryngeal reinnervation procedures at Northwestern University Medical School. Four patients presented with bilateral vocal cord paralysis and two patients with unilateral paralysis. All six operations were successful in restoring vocal cord function. The technique, problems, and results are discussed. Our experience supports the initial reports of success with this new operation.
Fibrous histiocytoma of the parotid gland
Authors: Shapshay Stanley M. , Wingert Richard H. , Davis J. Scott 
Published: October 2006

AbstractFibrous histiocytomas are not uncommonly found in the head and neck region. These tumors, arising from the tissue histiocyte, generally behave in a benign fashion. An unusual case of a fibrous histiocytoma arising in the parotid gland is presented. The histopathology of these lesions as well as parotid neoplasms in children is reviewed. Wide local excision without sacrifice of important structures is the treatment of choice.