bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Apparent Alveolar Bronchiolar Tumors Arising in the Mediastinum of F344 Rats
Authors: Howroyd Paul , Allison Neil , Foley Julie F. , Hardisty Jerry
Published: April 2009

Rare tumors were observed in chronic studies in F-344 rats that were purely or largely free in the mediastinal cavity, yet had the histological architecture of alveolar bronchiolar tumors. They had originally been diagnosed as either pulmonary alveolar bronchiolar tumors, mediastinal mesotheliomas, or thymomas. The authors described these tumors, estimated the fraction of thoracic tumors that they represented, and carried out a preliminary immunohistochemical investigation of whether they were of pulmonary or mesothelial origin. Sections of 715 thoracic tumors originally diagnosed as alveolar bronchiolar tumors, mesotheliomas, or thymomas from control or treated F-344 rats in NTP two-year studies were reviewed. Thirty (4%) were found to be purely or largely mediastinal, yet to have an alveolar bronchiolar histological pattern. A subset of these tumors and some typical intrapulmonary alveolar bronchiolar carcinomas and pleural mesotheliomas were immunostained for Clara cell secretory protein (CCSP), β-tubulin IV, and Wilm’s tumor 1 susceptibility gene products (WT1). The tumors with the histological architecture of alveolar bronchiolar tumors immunostained positive for CCSP and negative for WT1, implying they might have been of alveolar bronchiolar origin, despite their predominantly mediastinal location, although more certain identification would require the use of a larger panel of antibodies.
Eosinophilic Inclusions in Rat Clara Cells and the Effect of an Inhaled Corticosteroid
Authors: Kambara Takahito , McKevitt Tom P. , Francis Ian , Woodfine Jennie A. , McCawley Sean J. , Jones Stewart A. , Pilling Andrew M. , Lewis David J. , Williams Tom C.
Published: April 2009

Large eosinophilic cytoplasmic inclusions (ECIs) are occasionally seen in untreated rat Clara cells. Following inhalation exposure to a corticosteroid, the number of ECIs was increased. This is the first histopathological description of rat ECIs and attempted characterization by immunohistochemistry, in situ hybridization, and electron microscopy. ECIs were strongly positive for surfactant protein D (SP-D) and weakly positive for Clara cell specific protein (CCSP). Clara cell cytoplasm was positive for CCSP mRNA regardless of ECIs, but not within ECIs. Corticosteroid treatment and ECI presence did not affect the immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization staining intensities. Electron microscopy revealed large intracytoplasmic granules with an irregular limiting membrane. The ECI number was microscopically quantified in rats from three-, six-, and twenty-four-month studies. The mean ECI counts in treated rats increased from three- to fifty-four-fold with a positive dose-related trend, when compared with vehicle controls. Although the mechanism is unclear, SP-D and to a lesser extent CCSP accumulate in the ECIs. As human bronchial epithelium does not appear to contain structures analogous to the ECI, it is suggested that the observation of an increased number of ECIs in the treated rats is not likely to be relevant for human clinical risk assessment.
Strain-related Differences in Urine Composition of Male Rats of Potential Relevance to Urolithiasis
Authors: Tannehill-Gregg Sarah H. , Dominick Mark A. , Reisinger Amy J. , Moehlenkamp Jeffrey D. , Waites C. Robbie , Stock David A. , Sanderson Thomas P. , Cohen Samuel M. , Arnold Lora L. , Schilling Beth E.
Published: April 2009

In carcinogenicity studies with PPAR γ and α/γ agonists, urinary bladder tumors have been reported in Harlan Sprague-Dawley (HSD) and Charles River Sprague-Dawley (SD) but not Wistar (WI) rats, with urolithiasis purported to be the inciting event. In two 3-month studies, the authors investigated strain-related differences in urine composition by sampling urine multiple times daily. Urine pH, electrolytes, creatinine, protein, citrate and oxalate levels, and serum citrate were assessed; urine sediment was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray spectroscopy. HSD rats had significantly higher urine calcium than SD or WI rats, primarily as calcium phosphate-containing precipitate. When compared to SD rats, HSD rats had lower urine volume, higher urine protein, and a comparable (week 4) to lower (week 13) burden of MgNH4PO4 aggregates. Relative to WI rats, HSD rats had higher urine protein and magnesium and lower serum and urine citrate. Overall, the susceptibility to urolithiasis in male rats was HSD > SD > WI; this was likely due to strain-related differences in the amount of urine protein (a nidus for crystal formation), lithogenic ions, citrate (an inhibitor of lithogenesis), and/or volume. Strain-related differences in urine composition need to be considered when interpreting the outcome of studies with compounds that alter urine composition.
Canine Cardiac Rhabdomyoma
Authors: Radi Zaher A. , Metz Alan
Published: April 2009

A well-circumscribed, expansile, and nonencapsulated cardiac rhabdomyoma composed of tightly arranged, large, variably sized, ovoid to irregular, swollen myocytes with deeply eosinophilic cytoplasm and varying degrees of cytoplasmic vacuolation was detected in an eight- to nine-month-old female beagle dog in a routine toxicology study. By histochemistry, the neoplasm was periodic acid-Schiff positive. By immunohistochemistry (IHC), neoplastic cells were positive for desmin and myoglobin and negative for vimentin and smooth muscle actin. Spontaneous lesions in the heart of young beagle dogs are rare in drug safety studies. On the basis of histopathology, histochemistry, and IHC findings, a diagnosis of cardiac rhabdomyoma was made. Cardiac rhabdomyoma is one of the most frequently occuring primary tumors of the heart and, by far, the most common neoplasm in human infants and children. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the canine cardiac rhabdomyoma.
Discovery of Metabolomics Biomarkers for Early Detection of Nephrotoxicity
Authors: Boudonck Kurt J. , Mitchell Matthew W. , Német László , Keresztes Lilla , Nyska Abraham , Shinar Doron , Rosenstock Moti
Published: April 2009

Drug-induced nephrotoxicity is a major concern, since many pharmacological compounds are filtered through the kidneys for excretion into urine. To discover biochemical biomarkers useful for early identification of nephrotoxicity, metabolomic experiments were performed on Sprague-Dawley Crl:CD (SD) rats treated with the nephrotoxins gentamicin, cisplatin, or tobramycin. Using a combination of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS), a global, nontargeted metabolomics analysis was performed on urine and kidney samples collected after one, five, and twenty-eight dosing days. Increases in polyamines and amino acids were observed in urine from drug-treated rats after a single dose, and prior to observable histological kidney damage and conventional clinical chemistry indications of nephrotoxicity. Thus, these metabolites are potential biomarkers for the early detection of drug-induced nephrotoxicity. Upon prolonged dosing, nephrotoxin-induced changes included a progressive loss of amino acids in urine, concomitant with a decrease in amino acids and nucleosides in kidney tissue. A nephrotoxicity prediction model, based on the levels of branched-chain amino acids in urine, distinguished nephrotoxin-treated samples from vehicle-control samples, with 100%, 93%, and 70% accuracy at day 28, day 5, and day 1, respectively. Thus, this panel of biomarkers may provide a noninvasive method to detect kidney injury long before the onset of histopathological kidney damage.
Spontaneous Ganglioneuroma Possibly Originating from the Trigeminal Ganglion in a B6C3F1 Mouse
Authors: Yasui Yuzo , Ohta Yasufumi , Ueda Yoshihide , Hasegawa Kazushige , Kihara Tohru , Hosoi Masayo , Miyajima Rumiko , Shiga Atsushi , Imai Kiyoshi , Toyoda Kazuhiro
Published: April 2009

In a carcinogenicity study, a neuronal tumor in the cranial cavity was observed in a 110-week-old female B6C3F1 mouse. At necropsy, the tumor was seen at the site of the pituitary gland. Histologically, the tumor consisted of well-differentiated ganglion cells, nerve fiber/neuropil-like elements and ganglion-like cells. The tumor was composed mainly of ganglion-like cells, which were arranged in solid sheets interspersed with thin fibrovascular stroma. Nissl substance was detected at the margin in the cytoplasm of well-differentiated ganglion cells, and nerve fibers were identified by the Kluever-Barrera method. Immunohistochemically, the well-differentiated ganglion cells were positive for S-100, neurofilament protein (NF), neuron-specific enolase (NSE), synaptophysin, and chromogranin A. The nerve fiber/neuropil-like elements were positive for S-100, NF, NSE, and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and the ganglion-like cells were strongly positive only for NSE and synaptophysin. On the other hand, there were no pituitary cells, such as prolactin-positive or adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-positive cells in the tumor tissue. Detailed histopathological examination suggested that the tumor might be a ganglioneuroma arising from the trigeminal ganglion. This report provides additional histopathological evidence of peripheral nerve neoplasms in mice.
Preparation and properties of polyimide-polysiloxane hybrid materials by the sol-gel process
Authors: Iyoku Yoshitake , Kakimoto Masa-aki , Imai Yoshio
Published: April 2009

Polyimide-poly(methylsiloxane) hybrid films were successfully prepared by the sol-gel process with methyltriethoxysilane (MTES) and/or dimethyldiethoxysilane (DMDES) in the polymer solution. Two methods were used for making hybrid films. First, MTES and/or DMDES were dissolved in the N,N-dimethylacetamide (DMAc) solution of the polyamic acid (polyimide precursor) prepared from 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl ether (ODA) and pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA). During the heating process at 300°C the polyamic acid was converted to polyimide and the sol-gel reaction, which consists of hydrolysis and condensation of MTES and/or DMDES, proceeded simultaneously. Second, methanol was used as the solvent to make the hybrid films by using the triethylamine salt of polyamic acid. The IR spectra proved that the sol-gel reactions started from MTES and DMDES readily proceeded in the polymer matrix. The hybrid films prepared in methanol were more transparent than those prepared in DMAc. Measurement by dynamic mechanical analysis indicated that the polystloxane was dispersed homogeneously in the polyimide matrix even after the heat treatment at 300°C, in the case of both DMAc and methanol solution methods. With respect to the tensile properties, the tensile strength and the elongation at break of the hybrid films prepared by the methanol solution method were higher than those by the DMAc solution method. The modulus of the obtained hybrid films decreasing with increasing DMDES ratio in the silicone unit in both cases.
Whiskers 9. Synthesis of whisker-like crystals of poly(6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid)
Authors: Kricheldorf Hans R , Adebahr Thorsten
Published: April 2009

Poly(6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid), poly(2,6-HNA), was synthesized by three different methods: polycondensation of 6-acetoxy-2-naphthoic acid, or its trimethylsilyl ester, and polycondensation of free 6-hydroxy-2-naphthoic acid with acetic arnhydride in an 'one-pot procedure'. The last method gave whiskers only when a monomer of high purity was used. Different temperatures (350 or 400C) and reaction media tMarlotherm-S, Marlotherm-SCB or Santotherm) were applied. Furthermore, the reaction time and monomer concentration were varied. 6-Acetoxy-2-naphthoic acid yielded whiskers only at concentrations < 0.1 mol I1', whereas its trimethylsilyl ester gave whiskers even at a concentration of 0.4 mol 11. The crystal growth of whisker-like crystals proved to be sensitive to the presence of radical scavengers or acidic transesterification catalysts.
Preparation and properties of polyaramides derived from aromatic diamine-terminated oligo(tetrafiuoroethene)s
Authors: Steinhauser N , Mülhaupt R
Published: April 2009

Two families of polyaramides containing well defined oligo(tetrafluoroethene) segments were prepared from novel N,N'-bis(m-and p-aminophenyl)-perfluoroalkane-cwdicarboxamides in a solution polycondensation processes. The influence of the fluorine content, the substitution pattern of the aromatic rings and the oligo(tetrafluoroethene) segment lengths on solubilities, thermal degradation and phase transition temperatures was investigated.
4,4',5,5'-Dioxydiphthalic dianhydride, a new polyimide monomer
Authors: Schwartz Willis T , Cocoman Mary K , Stults Jeffrey S , Dinan Frank J
Published: April 2009

4,4',5,5'-Dioxydiphthalic dianhydride (DODA), a new monomer for the synthesis of polyimide resins, has been prepared by the action of a base on a 4,5-dihalophthalic anhydride in a polar aprotic solvent. Both potassium carbonate and a combination of potassium fluoride and water have afforded DODA in a high-yielding single-step reaction. The product was purified by crystallization of its di-n-butyl ester. A variety of polyimides and copolyimides incorporating DODA were prepared, and afforded creasable films having good physical properties.
Development of silicone matrix-based advanced composites for thermal protection
Authors: Wilson Doug , Beckley Don , Koo Joseph H
Published: April 2009

A new class of silicone matrix-based composites has been developed, particularly for use in the thermal protection of missile launch structures. In this application. screening tests have shown that these materials, coded SM8000, offer three-fold performance improvement over conventional phenolic-based composites. Initial investigations designed to identify commercial opportunities for the material have also met with some success. Promising applications as diverse as commercial jet-engine fire shields and high-temperature automotive gaskets have illustrated the potential widespread use of this type of material. This paper will examine the development, properties and applications of these silicone matrix composites.
Gaps Between Patients, Media, and Academic Medicine in Discourses on Gender and Depression: A Metasynthesis
Authors: Johansson Eva E. , Bengs Carita , Danielsson Ulla , Lehti Arja , Hammarström Anne
Published: April 2009

For reasons that are not yet fully understood, depression affects women twice as often as men. In this article we describe an investigation of how depression is understood in relation to men and women by the patients themselves, the media, and the medical research establishment. We do this by undertaking a metasynthesis of data from three different sources: interviews with depressed patients, media portrayals of depressed individuals in Sweden, and international medical articles about depression. The findings reveal that there are differences in (a) the recognition of depression, (b) the understanding of the reasons for depression, and (c) the contextualization of depression. Although women and men describe different symptoms and reasons for falling ill, these gendered expressions are not acknowledged in articles coming from Western medical settings. We discuss the implications of these findings and conclude that an integrated model for understanding biological, gender, and cultural aspects of depression has yet to be developed.
Cultural Changes in ICU Sedation Management
Authors: Egerod Ingrid
Published: April 2009

The aim of this study was to explore physicians' views and perceptions of sedation, and offer a new approach to the understanding of issues of sedation. I used a qualitative, descriptive, and explorative multicenter design. Data were generated by seven key-informant interviews using a semistructured interview guide. One experienced doctor was selected at each of the seven largest intensive care units in Denmark. Interpretational analysis was performed by comprehensive overview, individual case analysis, cross-case analysis, and integrated thematic analysis and identification of emerging themes. The following themes emerged: a paradigm shift from sedated to more awake and comfortable patients, cultural changes toward intracollegial openness, increased interdisciplinary and staff/patient/family collaboration, patient and environmental normalization, and humanization. The study findings provide an understanding of contextual issues of sedation, safety, and comfort, and suggest that a cultural change in sedation strategies might reduce the duration of sedation and mechanical ventilation while containing cost and improving the well-being of the patients.
How Adolescents Experience Smoking Cessation
Authors: McVea Kristine L. S. P. , Miller Dana L. , Creswell John W. , McEntarrfer Rob , Coleman Marta J.
Published: April 2009

In this study we develop a model of how youth experience smoking cessation attempts. We followed 15 adolescent smokers twice monthly over three months. Through six semistructured interviews, we explored participants' subjective experiences of making a “quit” attempt. We analyzed transcript data using grounded theory procedures, beginning with open coding, axial coding, construction of matrices, and development of a preliminary theory or model of this phenomenon. We found that only emotionally compelling and inescapable quit reasons were truly motivating. Few parents actively supported their child during quit attempts; smoking friends and other peers undermined them. All successful quitters established new, nonsmoking friends and completely redefined themselves. The quit experience was physically uncomfortable, emotionally distressful, and socially isolating. Greater motivation, mature problem-solving skills, and a willingness to supplant their smoking friends characterized successful quitters. Further research is needed to test this model's efficacy in the adolescent population.
Rethinking Recovery From Eating Disorders: Spiritual and Political Dimensions
Authors: Matusek Jill Anne , Knudson Roger M.
Published: April 2009

In this article, we portray women's experiences of long-term recovery from anorexia and compulsive overeating. Semistructured interviewing and an interpretive biographical method were used to coconstruct accounts of each participant's transition to wellness. Thick descriptions of self-identified turning points on the path to recovery are framed in terms of the concept of personal positioning in relation to cultural master narratives. The narratives suggest that long-term recovery involves spiritual or political commitment and purposeful engagement with communities larger than the self.
Breast Cancer Patients' Experience of External-Beam Radiotherapy
Authors: Schnur Julie B. , Ouellette Suzanne C. , Bovbjerg Dana H. , Montgomery Guy H.
Published: April 2009

Radiotherapy is a critical component of treatment for the majority of women with breast cancer, particularly those who receive breast conserving surgery. Although medically beneficial, radiotherapy can take a physical and psychological toll on patients. However, little is known about the specific thoughts and feelings experienced by women undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy. Therefore, the study aim was to use qualitative research methods to develop an understanding of these thoughts and feelings based on 180 diary entries completed during radiotherapy by 15 women with stage 0 to stage III breast cancer. Thematic analysis identified four primary participant concerns: (a) a preoccupation with time, (b) fantasies (both optimistic and pessimistic) about life following radiotherapy, (c) the toll their side-effect experience takes on their self-esteem, and (d) feeling mystified by radiotherapy. These themes are consistent with previous literature on illness and identity. These findings have implications for the treatment and care of women undergoing breast cancer radiotherapy.
The Role of the Media in Influencing Children's Nutritional Perceptions
Authors: Dorey Enid , McCool Judith
Published: April 2009

Recently the mass media environment of children, in particular food advertising, has come under scrutiny as a contributing factor in the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity. Focus groups were used to explore how children's appraisals of various forms of media inform their health-related perceptions about eating and nutrition. Ninety participants aged 10 to 12 years were recruited from schools throughout Auckland, New Zealand. Schools were randomly selected from among those rated with low, medium, and high socioeconomic status. Results show that the media is a key factor shaping how young people conceptualize healthy eating and healthy bodies. Mass media food messages were not seen as a credible source of health information; rather, they assist in constructing and reinforcing dominant misconceptions about food, healthy eating, and nutrition. Nutritional messages embedded in both health promotion and advertising were perceived to be conflicting and ambiguous, and might serve to undermine the trustworthiness of health promotion initiatives.
Exploring Resources for Physical Activity in Hispanic Women, Using Photo Elicitation
Authors: Fleury Julie , Keller Colleen , Perez Adriana
Published: April 2009

Addressing cultural, social, and contextual resources to promote physical activity behavior among Hispanic women is necessary to establish effective intervention approaches. With this research we intended to (a) explore cultural, social, and contextual resources for physical activity among Hispanic women; and (b) evaluate the acceptability of visual methods as an innovative, formative method to enhance intervention relevance. A qualitative descriptive methodological design incorporating photo elicitation was used with 7 Hispanic women, aged 23 to 60 ( X = 44.2). Results were varied, and themes captured cultural, social, and contextual resources. Culture provided an overarching perspective, guiding identification and choice of physical activity resources, support, and setting. Themes included being active as a way of life, acknowledging tradition, moving with me, creating place, and building resources. Photo elicitation was evaluated as an acceptable method. Data provide an initial step toward generating a more complete understanding of perceived resources for physical activity in Hispanic women, and support the acceptability of photo elicitation.
Short-chain fatty acid–mediated effects on erythropoiesis in primary definitive erythroid cells
Authors: Bhatia Himanshu , Hallock Jennifer L. , Dutta Amrita , Karkashon Shay , Sterner Lauren S. , Miyazaki Toru , Dean Ann , Little Jane A.
Published: April 2009

Short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs; butyrate and propionate) up-regulate embryonic/fetal globin gene expression through unclear mechanisms. In a murine model of definitive erythropoiesis, SCFAs increased embryonic β-type globin gene expression in primary erythroid fetal liver cells (eFLCs) after 72 hours in culture, from 1.7% (± 1.2%) of total β-globin gene expression at day 0 to 4.9% (± 2.2%) in propionate and 5.4% (± 3.4%) in butyrate; this effect was greater in butyrate plus insulin/erythropoietin (BIE), at 19.5% (± 8.3%) compared with 0.1% (± 0.1%) in ins/EPO alone (P < .05). Fetal γ-globin gene expression was increased in human transgene-containing eFLCs, to 35.9% (± 7.0%) in BIE compared with 4.4% (± 4.2%) in ins/EPO only (P < .05). Embryonic globin gene expression was detectable in 11 of 15 single eFLCs treated with BIE, but in0 of 15 ins/EPO-only treated cells. Butyrate-treated [65.5% (± 9.9%)] and 77.5% (± 4.0%) propionate-treated eFLCs were highly differentiated in culture, compared with 21.5% (± 3.5%) in ins/EPO (P < .005). Importantly, signaling intermediaries, previously implicated in induced embryonic/fetal globin gene expression (STAT5, p42/44, and p38), were not differentially activated by SCFAs in eFLCs; but increased bulk histone (H3) acetylation was seen in SCFA-treated eFLCs. SCFAs induce embryonic globin gene expression in eFLCS, which are a useful short-term and physiologic primary cell model of embryonic/fetal globin gene induction during definitive erythropoiesis.
IL-7 administration drives T cell–cycle entry and expansion in HIV-1 infection
Authors: Sereti Irini , Dunham Richard M. , Spritzler John , Aga Evgenia , Proschan Michael A. , Medvik Kathy , Battaglia Catherine A. , Landay Alan L. , Pahwa Savita , Fischl Margaret A. , Asmuth David M. , Tenorio Allan R. , Altman John D. , Fox Lawrence , Moir Susan , Malaspina Angela , Morre Michel , Buffet Renaud , Silvestri Guido , Lederman Michael M.
Published: April 2009

Interleukin 7 (IL-7) is a common gamma chain receptor cytokine implicated in thymopoiesis and in peripheral expansion and survival of T lymphocytes. The safety and activity of recombinant human IL-7 (rhIL-7) administration were therefore examined in HIV-infected persons. In this prospective randomized placebo-controlled study, a single subcutaneous dose of rhIL-7 was well tolerated with biologic activity demonstrable at 3 μg/kg and a maximum tolerated dose of 30 μg/kg. Injection site reactions and transient elevations of liver function tests were the most notable side effects. Transient increases in plasma HIV-RNA levels were observed in 6 of 11 IL-7–treated patients. Recombinant hIL-7 induced CD4 and CD8 T cells to enter cell cycle; cell-cycle entry was also confirmed in antigen-specific CD8 T cells. Administration of rhIL-7 led to transient down-regulation of the IL-7 receptor alpha chain (CD127) in both CD4+ and CD8+ T cells. Single-dose rhIL-7 increased the numbers of circulating CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, predominantly of central memory phenotype. The frequency of CD4+ T cells with a regulatory T-cell phenotype (CD25high CD127low) did not change after rhIL-7 administration. Thus, rhIL-7 has a biologic and toxicity profile suggesting a potential for therapeutic trials in HIV infection and other settings of lymphopenia. This clinical trial has been registered at http://www.clinicaltrials.gov under NCT0099671.
CHK1 inhibition as a strategy for targeting fanconi anemia (FA) DNA repair pathway deficient tumors
Authors: Chen Clark C , Kennedy Richard D , Sidi Samuel , Look A Thomas , D'Andrea Alan
Published: April 2009

Background

DNA repair deficient tumor cells have been shown to accumulate high levels of DNA damage. Consequently, these cells become hyper-dependent on DNA damage response pathways, including the CHK1-kinase-mediated response. These observations suggest that DNA repair deficient tumors should exhibit increased sensitivity to CHK1 inhibition. Here we offer experimental evidence in support of this hypothesis.

Results

Using isogenic pairs of cell lines differing only in the Fanconi Anemia (FA) DNA repair pathway, we showed that FA deficient cell lines were hypersensitive toCHK1silencing by independent siRNAs as well as CHK1 pharmacologic inhibition by Gö6976 and UCN-01. In parallel, an siRNA screen designed to identify gene silencings synthetically lethal with CHK1 inhibition identified genes required for FA pathway function. To confirm these findingsin vivo, we demonstrated that whole zebrafish embryos, depleted forFANCD2by a morpholino approach, were hypersensitive to Gö6976. Silencing of FA genes led to hyper-activation of CHK1 and vice versa. Furthermore, inactivation of CHK1 in FA deficient cell lines caused increased accumulation of DNA strand and chromosomal breakages. These results suggest that the functions subserved by CHK1 and the FA pathway mutually compensate in maintaining genome integrity. As CHK1 inhibition has been under clinical trial in combination with cisplatin, we showed that the FA specific tumoricidal effect of CHK1 inhibition and cisplatin was synergistic.

Conclusion

Taken together, these results suggest CHK1 inhibition as a strategy for targeting FA deficient tumors.
Role of noggin as an upstream signal in the lack of neuronal derivatives found in the avian caudal-most neural crest
Authors: Osório Liliana , Teillet Marie-Aimée , Catala Martin
Published: April 2009

Neural crest cells (NCCs) arising from trunk neural tube (NT) during primary and secondary neurulation give rise to melanocytes, glia and neurons,except for those in the caudal-most region during secondary neurulation(somites 47 to 53 in the chick embryo), from which no neurons are formed,either in vivo or in vitro. To elucidate this discrepancy, we have specifically analyzed caudal-most NCC ontogeny. In this region, NCCs emerge at E5/HH26, one day after full cavitation of the NT and differentiation of flanking somites. The absence of neurons does not seem to result from a defect in NCC specification as all the usual markers, with the exception of Msx1, are expressed in the dorsal caudal-most NT as early as E4/HH24. However, Bmp4-Wnt1 signaling, which triggers trunk NCC delamination, is impaired in this region due to persistence of noggin (Nog)expression. Concomitantly, a spectacular pattern of apoptosis occurs in the NT dorsal moiety. Rostral transplantation of either the caudal-most somites or caudal-most NT reveals that the observed features of caudal-most NCCs relate to properties intrinsic to these cells. Furthermore, by forced Nogexpression in the trunk NT, we can reproduce most of these particular features. Conversely, increased Bmp4-Wnt1 signaling through Noginhibition in the caudal-most NT at E4/HH24 induces proneurogenic markers in migratory NCCs, suggesting that noggin plays a role in the lack of neurogenic potential characterizing the caudal-most NCCs.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of the First Two-dimensional Inorganic/Organic Composite Solid of Iron(III) Molybdate
Authors: Zhao Junwei , Liu Jiangping , Wang Jingping , Niu Jingyang
Published: April 2009

A novel two-dimensional inorganic–organic composite solid material of iron(III) molybdate [enH2][Fe2(MoO4)4] (1) (en = ethylenediamine) has been hydrothermally synthesized and structurally characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectra, and X-ray diffraction analysis. The sheet structure is constructed by binuclear {FeO6} octahedra and bridging {MoO4} tetrahedra. The two iron octahedra are edge-shared, and all of the oxygen atoms in iron coordination spheres are provided from the {MoO4} tetrahedral units which interconnect the diiron core through the corner sharing, leading to a novel two-dimensional framework.
Effects of Organosilica-derived Microporous Coverage of Carbon-supported Pt Catalysts on Dehydrogenation of Cyclohexane
Authors: Nakagawa Keizo , Tanimoto Yusuke , Sotowa Ken-Ichiro , Sugiyama Shigeru , Takenaka Sakae , Kishida Masahiro
Published: April 2009

Pt catalysts covered with an organosilica layer containing phenyl and/or methyl groups showed higher conversion in the dehydrogenation of cyclohexane, compared with Pt catalysts covered with a silica layer containing no functional groups. Micropores formed in the organosilica layer owing to the decomposition of functional groups by heat treatment resulted in this increase in catalytic activity which is dependent on the functional groups contained in the organosilica layer.
One-step Direct Conversion of Heterocyclic Aldehydes to Esters
Authors: Goswami Shyamaprosad , Hazra Anita
Published: April 2009

One-step direct conversion of a series of heterocyclic aldehydes to heterocyclic esters is reported here by the use of thiamine hydrochloride as a catalyst in the absence of nitrogen atmosphere in a reasonably high yield. This method exclusively produces heterocyclic esters in most cases (specially with more electron-withdrawing heterocyclic aldehydes) without the formation of side products like heteroin. Thus the method developed looks promising and general for the synthesis of electron-withdrawing heterocyclic esters from the corresponding aldehydes.
Generation and Reactions of α-Silyloxiranyllithium in a Microreactor
Authors: Nagaki Aiichiro , Takizawa Eiji , Yoshida Jun-ichi
Published: April 2009

α-Triphenylsilyloxiranyllithium was effectively generated by the reaction of epoxyethyltriphenylsilane with n-BuLi in a microflow reactor at 0 °C, though it is well known that an over reaction cannot be avoided even at lower temperatures in a conventional macrobatch reactor. Subsequent reactions with various electrophiles in the microflow reactor gave the corresponding α-substituted epoxysilanes.
Multistep Coloring and Bleaching of Viologens Monomolecularly Incorporated in DNA
Authors: Kakibe Takeshi , Kurihara Ryo , Ohno Hiroyuki
Published: April 2009

Two different viologens have been incorporated into double-strand DNA on ITO glass electrodes. Thus prepared DNA/viologen complex film showed reversible two-step color change by potential control.
Synthesis of Helical Polymers with a Pentasilane Core
Authors: Morisaki Yasuhiro , Otaka Hiromichi , Nagai Atsushi , Naka Kensuke , Chujo Yoshiki
Published: April 2009

The asymmetric anionic polymerization of N-(4-methylphenyl)-N-phenylacrylamide was carried out using a new pentasilyl dianion initiator prepared by the reaction of decaphenylcyclopentasilane with lithium. The optically active higher-ordered structure of the pentasilane chain was induced by the helical poly[N-(4-methylphenyl)-N-phenylacrylamide] segments.
Preparation and Structure Characterization of β-BaB2O4 Nanowires
Authors: Zhang Jiang , Liang Shaojun , He Guiping
Published: April 2009

A cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB)-assisted hydrothermal method was applied to prepare β-BaB2O4 nanowires using Ba(NO3)2 and NaBH4 as reactants. After subsequent annealing in air at 700 °C, β-BaB2O4 nanowires with a diameter of 10–20 nm and a length up to several micrometers were obtained. The characterization results indicate that β-BaB2O4 nanowires are single crystalline with the preferential growth direction along [113].
Charakteristische Aspekte des Zorns in seiner Darstellung durch Philosophen des Mittelalters
Authors: Brungs Alexander
Published: April 2009

The first part of this essay discusses certain aspects of current research dealing with historical theories of emotions as well as with historical (fictional and non-fictional) descriptions of emotions; trends in medieval philology that apply a vague concept of social constructionism to emotions are criticised. The second part attempts to provide some historical background in regard to the question of the location of anger within medieval faculty-based psychology. The third and fourth parts focus on the medieval conception of anger as a specifically “moral” – and therefore human – emotion straddling the border between the animal and spiritual world.
Der Zorn der Heroen. Heldenepische Formen der Wut im ‚Nibelungenlied‘
Authors: Gephart Irmgard
Published: April 2009

Rage in the ‘Nibelungenlied’ is a positive, aboriginal energy. The more easily the hero can access this energetic source, the more powerful he becomes. Marshal charisma is essentially associated with the primary emotion of rage – a fact supremely exemplified by Siegfried. However, charismatic army commanders are quite different from political leaders. The position of the ruler is characterized by a high degree of self-control. Yet the disciplined king depends on his warriors, since the buttressing of his own cognitive distance is accompanied by a weakening of his physical power. Representatives of this position are Gunther in the first part, and in the second, Etzel and his vassal Dietrich. Suspense in the ‘Nibelungenlied’ is thus built around the ambivalent qualities associated with anger. As a basic affect, anger's power stems from the sheer power of life itself; it helps those who admire the hero to identify with him and even feel a sense of delight in doing so. But whilst wrathful devotion is largely celebrated, it emerges elsewhere as the ugly face of general social impotence. The ecstasy of battle, which suggests narcissistic invulnerability, leads to deeply felt mourning amongst the survivors. Thus in the ‘Nibelungenlied’, anger is celebrated and unmasked simultaneously and in equal measure.
Überlegungen zu einer Codierung der Emotion „Zorn“ im ‚Willehalm‘ Wolframs von Eschenbach
Authors: Blaas Valentin
Published: April 2009

In my presentation I understand anger as an emotion that, in addition to its relationship to time, is also subject to cultural rules and is therefore related to probability and predictability. With the use of selected references from the theory of emotions (ranging from antiquity to the present day) I identify several consistent fundamental assumptions about this emotion and reconstruct a discourse of “just” anger. Viewed from the perspective of such extra-literary concepts of anger (particularly Thomas Aquinas' ‘De passionibus animae’) Willehalm's outbursts of anger at the French court can be seen not only as an “illegitimate”, universally condemned act, through which the margrave unnecessarily puts at risk his legitimate claim to the king's support; equally, the very forbearance and expressions of solidarity which he is successively shown after his intemperate behaviour in Munleun can also be reinterpreted in light of the Aristotelian-Thomistic model of anger.
Christusähnlicher Karl. Die Darstellung von Zorn und Trauer des Herrschers in der ‚Chanson de Roland‘ und im ‚Rolandslied‘
Authors: Heisler Evamaria
Published: April 2009

Many scholars working on the Old French ‘Song of Roland’ (from about 1100) and its Middle High German adaptation (from about 1170) have commented on the inconsistencies of the main character, the emperor Charlemagne. On the one hand, he is strong and active; on the other, he sinks into passivity and weakness. In this context, the ruler's emotions have often been seen as signs of his helplessness and, therefore, his humanity. By analyzing Charlemagne's grief and anger more closely, this article aims to elaborate a different interpretation. Firstly, it shows that the contradictory depiction of the ruler's emotions is part of a strategy which brings Charlemagne into line with Christ. Thus, Charlemagne's emotions – even those apparently underlining his weakness – ultimately legitimize his position as a ruler. Secondly, there is another significant finding: Charlemagne's emotions do not simply represent the “human” part of his character, as has been suggested, but are themselves important means of power.
Persönliche Erfahrung und theologische Reflexion: „Zorn“, „Wut“, „Empörung“ in der sogenannten ‚Historia Calamitatum‘ des Petrus Abaelardus (1079–1142)1
Authors: Klitzsch Ingo
Published: April 2009

Basing his arguments on Abelard's ‘Historia Calamitatum’ the author questions whether the category “negative emotions” is indeed the central and adequate category for describing medieval texts broadly attributable to amonastic context. Instead he stresses categories that are inherent to the text and its world. The first part contains a survey of those episodes of the ‘Historia Calamitatum’ in which negative emotions are mentioned. In a second part, attention turns to the patterns behind these descriptions and their purpose. By considering various aspects of the ‘Historia Calamitatum’ – its theological-monastic background, literary genre, and implicit public dimension, as well as contemporary testimonies – a calculated and varied ascription of negative emotions can be revealed within the work.
The Love Which Dare Not Speak its Name: An Examination of Pagan Symbolism and Morality in Fin de siecle Decadent Fiction
Authors: Reid Kelly Anne
Published: April 2009

This essay considers the Pagan symbolism which was so crucial to the decadents of the fin-de-siecle. It focuses on the novel 'The Picture of Dorian Gray' by Oscar Wilde, the novella 'Death in Venice' by Thomas Mann and some of the iconic sketches by Aubrey Beardsley and seeks to understand the Pagan and homoerotic motifs of the genre. It draws the conclusion that the decadents saw Paganism and homosexuality as inextricable and used elements of society.
Landscape Archaeology, Paganism, and the Interpretation of Megaliths
Authors: Beck Jess , Chrisomalis Stephen
Published: April 2009

Many varieties of contemporary Paganism share common methodologies and interests with the academic subfield of landscape archaeology, in particular with regard to their interpretation of megalithic architecture. While there are differences in the range of evidence considered, and the relative value placed on certain methodologies, there are more parallels than dissimilarities. In particular, reliance on intuition as a source of knowledge and a concern with reconstructing the sensory conditions of prehistoric built environments are shared. Space and place in many varieties of archaeology are viewed through a phenomenological perspective that is individual and not necessarily inter subjective. Despite the tensions between archaeologists and Pagans over access to and proper custodianship of megalithic architectural sites in Britain and elsewhere, opportunities exist for fruitful intellectual and social exchange between the two vocations.
The Goddess and the Virgin: Materiality in Western Europe
Authors: Whitehead Amy
Published: April 2009

Materiality has had the tendency to cause disruptions in Western discourses and for the most part has been relegated to being representational instead of sensual, embodied or tangible. Relationally situated around two forms of the Divine Feminine, this article forms part of a greater work in progress and discusses two ethnographic accounts that highlight the role materiality plays in contemporary Western Europe. An object based discourse is used to examine the economy, performances, aesthetics and possible subjectivity of religious objects and offerings, and provides a basis upon which to explore ideas and possibilities that occur when objects and their agents are taken seriously. Through examining the relational status of objects among us in the West, this article examines the possibility of allowing not only for ontologies, but for clearing up the relegating binary opposites that are symptomatic of modernist thought.
The Prevailing Circumstances: The Pagan Philosophers of Athens in a Time of Stress
Authors: Kutash Emilie F.
Published: April 2009

The phrase, “prevailing circumstances” (tois Parousin oikeian) is one that can be found in the work of Damascius, Proclus, Simplicius and Olympiodorus, all Neoplatonic philosophers of the Athenian School during Late Antiquity. The fact that Proclus and his successors employed veiled expressions regarding the Christian threat documents their ongoing struggle with Christian authority. The brief reign of Julian the Apostate (360-363) was a crucial juncture for pagan political survival. The Academy in Athens founded by Plutarch and organized by Proclus and his followers was an institution with little continuity with Plato’s original academy. Proclus and his followers incorporated the oriental gods, theurgic practices and promoted Platonic theology much as did Julian with a new resoluteness. There are direct links which connect the Athenian school and its prominent teachers to Julian’s followers This paper documents the ongoing pagan-Christian struggle in the Athenian School , their continued allegiance to Julian and raises the question whether they were more actively politically subversive than their writings let on..
Re-crafting the Past: The Complex Relationship between Myth and Ritual in the Contemporary Pagan Reshaping of Eleusis
Authors: Bittarello Maria Beatrice
Published: April 2009

Modern Pagans belonging to different traditions re-craft the Eleusinian mysteries and the myth of Demeter and Persephone on the Web. The author suggests that there may exist, in contemporary Paganism, a close, nuanced, and complex relationship between mythical narrative and rituals— in other words, between symbolic system (myth, gods, symbols), and embodied knowledge (gained through ritual and personal life experience). In the paper, such close relationship is uncovered by exploring how the myth of Demeter and the initiation at Eleusis are presented by the ancient sources, how recent academic and literary studies have reshaped them, and how the myth and the ritual are re-told and talked about on contemporary Pagan websites.
Hirsutism in young women
Authors: Swingler Rebecca , Awala Alero , Gordon Uma
Published: April 2009

Hirsutism is a distressing condition affecting 5–15% of women.

It is usually associated with an underlying endocrine disorder: in 70–80% of women with hirsutism this is polycystic ovary syndrome.

Management depends upon the cause but combines lifestyle changes and cosmetic, physical and medical treatments.

It takes 9–12 months for hormonal treatments to take their maximum effect.

Learning objectives:

To learn how to assess women with hirsutism.

To understand common and less common aetiologies.

To be able to take a sensitive and sensible approach to management.

Ethical issues:

To what extent should drugs not yet approved for use in women with hirsutism be used as a treatment for this condition?

What is the role of the gynaecologist in ensuring women on drugs such as finasteride are using effective contraception?

Please cite this article as: Swingler R, Awala A, Gordon U. Hirsutism in young women. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2009;11:101–107.
@ TOG
Authors: Barnfield Sonia , Edey Katharine , Keay Stephen
Published: April 2009

In this issue of @TOG we review media websites. The internet is generally the first port of call for doctors and patients when they are looking for up‐to‐date information. Recent, high‐profile articles are often reviewed by the media.
The Use of Generalized Additive Models for Forecasting the Abundance of Queets River Coho Salmon
Authors: Wang Shizhen , Morishima Gary , Sharma Rishi , Gilbertson Larry
Published: April 2009

We examined three types of models for preseason forecasting of the abundance of Queets River coho salmon Oncorhynchus kisutch: (1) a simple model in which estimates of smolt production are multiplied by projected marine survival rates, (2) a Ricker spawner–recruitment model, and (3) a regression model relating log-transformed adult recruitment to smolt production. Each type of model was formulated with and without environmental variables that influence production and survival. We attempted to use a nonparametric generalized additive model (GAM) to guide the selection of the environmental variables and the form of the regression model. The GAM model was derived through a stepwise selection strategy based on the Akaike information criterion. Parametric approximate models were developed for each selected GAM model, and their performance was compared with postseason estimates of abundance using three criteria: the mean absolute percentage error, the largest absolute percentage error, and the probability of being included in the 90% prediction interval. This paper shows that the GAM approach is useful in constructing forecasting models by identifying promising relationships with predictor variables and improving abundance forecasts through the incorporation of environmental variables.