bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in motoric, exploratory and emotional behaviours and neuronal acetylcholine content and 5‐HT turnover in histidine decarboxylase‐KO mice
Authors: Dere E. , De Souza‐Silva M. A. , Spieler R. E. , Lin J. S. , Ohtsu H. , Haas H. L. , Huston J. P. 
Published: August 2004

AbstractHistamine has been implicated, inter alia, in mechanisms underlying arousal, exploratory behaviour and emotionality. Here, we investigated behavioural and neurochemical parameters related to these concepts, including open‐field activity, rotarod performance and anxiety, as well as brain acetylcholine and 5‐HT concentrations of mice deficient for the histidine decarboxylase (HDC) gene. These mice are unable to synthesize histamine from its precursor histidine. The HDC‐knockout mice showed reduced exploratory activity in an open‐field, but normal habituation to a novel environment. They behaved more anxious than the controls, as assessed by the height–fear task and the graded anxiety test, a modified elevated plus‐maze. Furthermore, motor coordination on the rotarod was superior to controls. Biochemical assessments revealed that the HDC‐knockout mice had higher acetylcholine concentrations and a significantly higher 5‐HT turnover in the frontal cortex, but reduced acetylcholine levels in the neostriatum. These results are suggestive of important interactions between neuronal histamine and these site‐specific neurotransmitters, which may be related to the behavioural changes found in the HDC‐deficient animals.
Differential expression of voltage‐activated calcium channels in III and XII motoneurones during development in the rat
Authors: Miles Gareth B. , Lipski Janusz , Lorier Amanda R. , Laslo Peter , Funk Gregory D. 
Published: August 2004

AbstractTo further our understanding of the role that voltage‐activated Ca2+ channels play in the development, physiology and pathophysiology of motoneurones (MNs), we used whole‐cell patch‐clamp recording to compare voltage‐activated Ca2+ currents in oculomotor (III) and hypoglossal (XII) MNs of neonatal [postnatal day (P)1–5] and juvenile (P14–19) rats. In contrast to III MNs that innervate extraocular muscles, XII MNs that innervate tongue muscles mature more rapidly, fire bursts of low frequency action potentials and are vulnerable to degeneration in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. In neonates, low voltage‐activated (LVA) Ca2+ current densities are similar in XII and III MNs but high voltage‐activated (HVA) Ca2+ current densities are twofold higher in XII MNs. The HVA Ca2+ channel antagonists (nimodipine and nifedipine for L‐type, ω‐agatoxin‐TK for P/Q‐type and ω‐conotoxin‐GVIA for N‐type) revealed that, while N‐ and P/Q‐type HVA Ca2+ channels are present in both MN pools, a 3.5‐fold greater P/Q‐type Ca2+ current in XII MNs accounts for their greater HVA Ca2+ currents. Developmentally, LVA and HVA Ca2+ current densities decrease in III MNs but remain unchanged in XII MNs. Thus, the differences between these MN pools increase developmentally so that, in juveniles, the LVA Ca2+ current density is twofold greater and the HVA Ca2+ current density is threefold greater in XII compared with III MNs. We propose that this differential expression of LVA and HVA Ca2+ channels in XII and III MNs during development contributes to their distinct physiology and may also be a factor contributing to the greater susceptibility of XII MNs to degeneration as seen in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
TNF‐α accounts for short‐term persistence of oxidative status in rat brain after two weeks of repeated stress
Authors: Munhoz Carolina , Madrigal José L. M. , García‐Bueno Borja , Pradillo Jesús M. , Moro María A. , Lizasoain Ignacio , Lorenzo Pedro , Scavone Cristoforo , Leza Juan C. 
Published: August 2004

AbstractInducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS‐2) accounts for the accumulation of oxidative and nitrosative mediators in brain after stress. To determine whether and when repeated exposure to immobilization stress leads to persistent oxidative status in rat brain, male Wistar rats were immobilized for 6 h/day for 7 or 14 days (S7, S14). Cerebral cortices were obtained immediately after the last session of stress or 1 day later. Stress increased NOS‐2 activity after S7 or S14. This enzymatic activity returned to basal values 1 day after S7, but not 1 day after S14. Stress increased malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation in cortex after S7 and S14. MDA levels returned to basal values 1 day after S7 but not 1 day after S14. In order to elucidate the possible mechanisms involved in this short‐term persistence of oxidative status, brain levels of the cytokine tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) were determined. TNF‐α levels did not increase after S7 or 1 day after S7, but increased after S14 and 1 day after S14. This was paralleled by an increase in TNF‐α converting enzyme (TACE) activity in brain. When the increase in TNF‐α at S14 was blocked by BB1101, an inhibitor of TACE, or its effects were blocked with anti‐TNF‐α, the accumulation of MDA and NOS‐2 activity 1 day after S14 did not take place. These findings indicate that TACE and TNF‐α account for stress‐induced short‐term persistence of NOS‐2 activity and MDA accumulation after 14 days of repeated exposure and support a possible neuroprotective role for specific blockers of TNF‐α in this situation.
Quantifying the accessibility of the metagenome by random expression cloning techniques
Authors: Gabor Esther M. , Alkema Wynand B. L. , Janssen Dick B. 
Published: August 2004

SummaryThe exploitation of the metagenome for novel biocatalysts by functional screening is determined by the ability to express the respective genes in a surrogate host. The probability of recovering a certain gene thereby depends on its abundance in the environmental DNA used for library construction, the chosen insert size, the length of the target gene, and the presence of expression signals that are functional in the host organism. In this paper, we present a set of formulas that describe the chance of isolating a gene by random expression cloning, taking into account the three different modes of heterologous gene expression: independent expression, expression as a transcriptional fusion and expression as a translational fusion. Genes of the last category are shown to be virtually inaccessible by shotgun cloning because of the low frequency of functional constructs. To evaluate which part of the metagenome might in this way evade exploitation, 32 complete genome sequences of prokaryotic organisms were analysed for the presence of expression signals functional in E. coli hosts, using bioinformatics tools. Our study reveals significant differences in the predicted expression modes between distinct taxonomic groups of organisms and suggests that about 40% of the enzymatic activities may be readily recovered by random cloning in E. coli.
Phylogeny–function analysis of (meta)genomic libraries: screening for expression of ribosomal RNA genes by large‐insert library fluorescent in situ hybridization (LIL‐FISH)
Authors: Leveau Johan H. J. , Gerards Saskia , De Boer Wietse , Van Veen Johannes A. 
Published: August 2004

SummaryWe assessed the utility of fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) in the screening of clone libraries of (meta)genomic or environmental DNA for the presence and expression of bacterial ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes. To establish proof‐of‐principle, we constructed a fosmid‐based library in Escherichia coli of large‐sized genomic DNA fragments of the mycophagous soil bacterium Collimonas fungivorans, and hybridized 768 library clones with the Collimonas‐specific fluorescent probe CTE998‐1015. Critical to the success of this approach (which we refer to as large‐insert library FISH or LIL‐FISH) was the ability to induce fosmid copy number, the exponential growth status of library clones in the FISH assay and the use of a simple pooling strategy to reduce the number of hybridizations. Twelve out of 768 E. coli clones were suspected to harbour and express Collimonas 16S rRNA genes based on their hybridization to CTE998‐1015. This was confirmed by the finding that all 12 clones were also identified in an independent polymerase chain reaction‐based screening of the same 768 clones using a primer set for the specific detection of Collimonas 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA). Fosmids isolated from these clones were grouped by restriction analysis into two distinct contigs, confirming that C. fungivorans harbours at least two 16S rRNA genes. For one contig, representing 1–2% of the genome, the nucleotide sequence was determined, providing us with a narrow but informative view of Collimonas genome structure and content.
Can't get to the library? Then we’ll come to you. A survey of library services to people in their own homes in the United Kingdom
Authors: Ryder Julie 
Published: August 2004

Abstract Aims:  To determine the current level of library service to people in their own homes in the United Kingdom and to compare it with results from previous surveys. It is many years since a similar survey has been undertaken or guidelines produced and it is hoped that this work will help fill the gap.Methods:  A questionnaire was sent in January 2004 to all public library authorities in the UK, a total of 208; 72% (149) were returned in the timescale allowed. The questionnaire covered the criteria for eligibility to receive a home library service; service structure and delivery: who delivers the service (specialist librarians or specialist non‐professional staff, branch library staff or volunteers); training; range of material and services provided; reading aids; materials for reminiscence; information provision; transporting people to the library; services to people in residential homes, sheltered accommodation, nursing homes and day centres; reader development; lifelong learning; and publicity and promotion. The focus of the survey was on quality issues and good practice wherever possible.Results:  The number of customers receiving a service to ‘housebound’ readers in the UK in 2001/2 was 123 407. In 1984 it was 43 807 people in England. This still bears little relation to the number of people who should be receiving the service. The majority used paid staff (88%). Volunteers supported 52% of the services, with most having links with staff. There were opportunities to improve and develop services under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995. The service was publicized and promoted by only 62% of the respondents. Of those that use paid staff and that answered this question, 73% provide disability equality training for staff. Only 21% provide disability equality training for volunteers. Only 36% are involved in reader development or lifelong learning and only 23% provide a newsletter in print, 11% on tape and 3% in Braille; 12% take laptops into people's homes.Conclusions:  Many authorities were still providing a tokenistic service and were reluctant to publicize for fear of not coping with demand, which makes them vulnerable legally under the DDA. However, there were some excellent examples of good practice where the full range of services are provided to a high standard.
Linear fuzzy gene network models obtained from microarray data by exhaustive search
Authors: Sokhansanj Bahrad A , Fitch Patrick J , Quong Judy N , Quong Andrew A 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Recent technological advances in high-throughput data collection allow for experimental study of increasingly complex systems on the scale of the whole cellular genome and proteome. Gene network models are needed to interpret the resulting large and complex data sets. Rationally designed perturbations (e.g., gene knock-outs) can be used to iteratively refine hypothetical models, suggesting an approach for high-throughput biological system analysis. We introduce an approach to gene network modeling based on a scalable linear variant of fuzzy logic: a framework with greater resolution than Boolean logic models, but which, while still semi-quantitative, does not require the precise parameter measurement needed for chemical kinetics-based modeling.

Results
We demonstrated our approach with exhaustive search for fuzzy gene interaction models that best fit transcription measurements by microarray of twelve selected genes regulating the yeast cell cycle. Applying an efficient, universally applicable data normalization and fuzzification scheme, the search converged to a small number of models that individually predict experimental data within an error tolerance. Because only gene transcription levels are used to develop the models, they include both direct and indirect regulation of genes.

Conclusion
Biological relationships in the best-fitting fuzzy gene network models successfully recover direct and indirect interactions predicted from previous knowledge to result in transcriptional correlation. Fuzzy models fit on one yeast cell cycle data set robustly predict another experimental data set for the same system. Linear fuzzy gene networks and exhaustive rule search are the first steps towards a framework for an integrated modeling and experiment approach to high-throughput "reverse engineering" of complex biological systems.
MPSS profiling of human embryonic stem cells
Authors: Brandenberger Ralph , Khrebtukova Irina , Thies R Scott , Miura Takumi , Jingli Cai , Puri Raj , Vasicek Tom , Lebkowski Jane , Rao Mahendra 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Pooled human embryonic stem cells (hESC) cell lines were profiled to obtain a comprehensive list of genes common to undifferentiated human embryonic stem cells.

Results
Pooled hESC lines were profiled to obtain a comprehensive list of genes common to human ES cells. Massively parallel signature sequencing (MPSS) of approximately three million signature tags (signatures) identified close to eleven thousand unique transcripts, of which approximately 25% were uncharacterised or novel genes. Expression of previously identified ES cell markers was confirmed and multiple genes not known to be expressed by ES cells were identified by comparing with public SAGE databases, EST libraries and parallel analysis by microarray and RT-PCR. Chromosomal mapping of expressed genes failed to identify major hotspots and confirmed expression of genes that map to the X and Y chromosome. Comparison with published data sets confirmed the validity of the analysis and the depth and power of MPSS.

Conclusions
Overall, our analysis provides a molecular signature of genes expressed by undifferentiated ES cells that can be used to monitor the state of ES cells isolated by different laboratories using independent methods and maintained under differing culture conditions
From biomedicine to natural history research: EST resources for ambystomatid salamanders
Authors: Putta Srikrishna , Smith Jeramiah J , Walker John A , Rondet Mathieu , Weisrock David W , Monaghan James , Samuels Amy K , Kump Kevin , King David C , Maness Nicholas J , Habermann Bianca , Tanaka Elly , Bryant Susan V , Gardiner David M , Parichy David M , Voss S Randal 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Establishing genomic resources for closely related species will provide comparative insights that are crucial for understanding diversity and variability at multiple levels of biological organization. We developed ESTs for Mexican axolotl (Ambystoma mexicanum) and Eastern tiger salamander (A. tigrinum tigrinum), species with deep and diverse research histories.

Results
Approximately 40,000 quality cDNA sequences were isolated for these species from various tissues, including regenerating limb and tail. These sequences and an existing set of 16,030 cDNA sequences for A. mexicanum were processed to yield 35,413 and 20,599 high quality ESTs for A. mexicanum and A. t. tigrinum, respectively. Because the A. t. tigrinum ESTs were obtained primarily from a normalized library, an approximately equal number of contigs were obtained for each species, with 21,091 unique contigs identified overall. The 10,592 contigs that showed significant similarity to sequences from the human RefSeq database reflected a diverse array of molecular functions and biological processes, with many corresponding to genes expressed during spinal cord injury in rat and fin regeneration in zebrafish. To demonstrate the utility of these EST resources, we searched databases to identify probes for regeneration research, characterized intra- and interspecific nucleotide polymorphism, saturated a human – Ambystoma synteny group with marker loci, and extended PCR primer sets designed for A. mexicanum / A. t. tigrinum orthologues to a related tiger salamander species.

Conclusions
Our study highlights the value of developing resources in traditional model systems where the likelihood of information transfer to multiple, closely related taxa is high, thus simultaneously enabling both laboratory and natural history research.
Explaining computation of predictive values: 2 × 2 table versus frequency tree. A randomized controlled trial [ISRCTN74278823]
Authors: Steckelberg Anke , Balgenorth Andrea , Berger Jürgen , Mühlhauser Ingrid 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Involving patients in decision making on diagnostic procedures requires a basic level of statistical thinking. However, innumeracy is prevalent even among physicians. In medical teaching the 2 × 2 table is widely used as a visual help for computations whereas in psychology the frequency tree is favoured. We assumed that the 2 × 2 table is more suitable to support computations of predictive values.

Methods
184 students without prior statistical training were randomised either to a step-by-step self-learning tutorial using the 2 × 2 table (n = 94) or the frequency tree (n = 90). During the training session students were instructed by two sample tasks and a total of five positive predictive values had to be computed. During a follow-up session 4 weeks later participants had to compute 5 different tasks of comparable degree of difficulty without having the tutorial instructions at their disposal. The primary outcome was the correct solution of the tasks.

Results
There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups. About 58% achieved correct solutions in 4–5 tasks following the training session and 26% in the follow-up examination.

Conclusions
These findings do not support the hypothesis that the 2 × 2 table is more valuable to facilitate the calculation of positive predictive values than the frequency tree.
Electroconvulsive therapy and determination of cerebral dominance
Authors: Dragovic Milan , Allet Lindsay , Janca Aleksandar 
Published: August 2004

AbstractElectroconvulsive therapy (ECT) often results in a number of short- and long-time side effects including memory impairment for past and current events, which can last for several months after ECT treatment. It has been suggested that unilateral ECT (uECT) with electrodes placed over the non-dominant (typically right) hemisphere significantly reduces side effects, especially memory disturbances. It is important to note that cerebral dominance equates to speech dominance and avoiding this area of the brain also reduces speech dysfunction after ECT. Traditionally, the routine clinical determination of cerebral dominance has been through the assessment of hand, foot and eye dominance, which is an easy and inexpensive approach that, however, does not ensure accuracy. This review of literature on different methods and techniques for determination of cerebral dominance and provides evidence that functional transcranial Doppler sonography (fTCD) represents a valid and safe alternative to invasive techniques for identifying speech lateralisation. It can be concluded that fTCD, notwithstanding its costs, could be used as a standard procedure prior to uECT treatment to determine cerebral dominance, thereby further reducing cognitive side-effects of ECT and possibly making it more acceptable to both patients and clinicians.
The new reconstruction technique in the treatment of the skin cancers located on the eyelid: Posterior temporalis fascia composite graft
Authors: Copcu Eray , Sivrioglu Nazan 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Difficulty of reconstruction of the eyelids arises from the need to reconstruct different supporting and covering structures in a single operation. Defects in the anterior lamella of the eyelids can be readily repaired with skin grafts or flaps but posterior lamellar reconstruction needs more complex applications.

Methods
We performed posterior lamellar eyelid reconstruction with posterior parts of the temporalis fascia, since their anatomical and histological features are very similar to the defects. Nine patients with skin tumors located on the periorbital region were treated with local skin flaps and deep layer of the temporalis fascia.

Results
Grafts were harvested very easily. There was no complication related with graft or donor site. Biopsy was performed in three cases and normal conjunctival elements were seen. Functional and acceptable aesthetically results were achieved in all patients.

Conclusion
Ideal reconstructive material for replacement of the posterior lamina is still lacking. Tarsal reconstruction can be made with deep temporalis fascia with success since the thickness of the both tissues are very similar and also since the loose areolar layer of the temporalis fascia is very thin and highly vascularized, this layer can be used in reconstruction of the conjunctiva. According to our knowledge this is the first report of using of the posterior part of temporalis fascia as a composite graft in the literature.
Hürthle cell carcinoma: diagnostic and therapeutic implications
Authors: Hanief Mohamed R , Igali Laszlo , Grama Dimitrie 
Published: August 2004

Abstract
Background
Hürthle cell carcinoma is a variant of follicular cell carcinoma of thyroid. It may present as a low-grade tumour or as a more aggressive type. Prognosis depends upon the age of the patient, tumour size, extent of invasion and initial nodal or distant metastasis.

Patient and methods
The case of Hürthle cell carcinoma is reported in a 79-year-old man who presented with a rapidly increasing lump on the left side of his neck, having had a right hemithyroidectomy for colloid goitre 24-years-ago. Fine needle aspiration cytology confirmed the presence of Hürthle cells, raising the possibility of a Hürthle cell neoplasm. The patient underwent staging and surgery. Histology showed Hürthle cell carcinoma and the patient underwent adjuvant therapy. The literature on Hürthle cell neoplasms is reviewed.

Conclusions
Fine needle aspiration cytology may recognise Hürthle cell lesion but final diagnosis of carcinoma depends upon histological confirmation of vascular or capsular invasion. Staging and surgery in Hürthle cell carcinoma are similar to follicular carcinoma of thyroid with favourable outcome despite the controversy regarding the histological classification and adjuvant therapy. Elderly patients with Hürthle cell carcinoma need to be made aware of their poorer prognosis and should be offered more radical treatment.