bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Greenstone in practice: Implementations of an open source digital library system
Authors: Zhang Allison B. , Witten Ian H. , Olson Tod A. , Sheble Laura
Published: October 2006

The Greenstone digital library software is a comprehensive, open‐source system for constructing, presenting, and maintaining digital collections. Greenstone is produced by the New Zealand Digital Library Project at the University of Waikato, and developed and distributed in cooperation with UNESCO and the Human Info NGO. It is widely used internationally, and collections exist in many of the world's languages. Greenstone runs under Unix, Windows and Mac (OS/X) and is issued under the GNU general public license.

Selecting and implementing Greenstone helped many digital library practitioners build comprehensive and flexible digital collections at relatively low cost, and allowed them to tailor the software for local environments and organizational needs.

The panel, consisting of Greenstone developer and implementers, will introduce Greenstone software and demonstrate installation and collection building, present customized Greenstone user interfaces, discuss technical and organizational aspects of Greenstone implementations at their organizations, report the results of the 2004 Greenstone User Survey, which focused on support mechanisms, as well as the characteristics of organizations implementing Greenstone, their audiences and system needs.
1H, 13C and 15N NMR coordination shifts in gold(III), cobalt(III), rhodium(III) chloride complexes with pyridine, 2,2′‐bipyridine and 1,10‐phenanthroline
Authors: Pazderski Leszek , Toušek Jaromír , Sitkowski Jerzy , Kozerski Lech , Marek Radek , Szłyk Edward
Published: October 2006

Au(III), Co(III) and Rh(III) chloride complexes with pyridine (py), 2,2′‐bipyridine (bpy) and 1,10‐phenanthroline (phen) of the general formulae [M1LCl3], trans‐[M2L4Cl2]+, mer‐[M2L3Cl3], [M1(LL)Cl2]+, cis‐[M2(LL)2Cl2]+, where M1 = Au; M2 = Co, Rh; L = py; LL = bpy, phen, were studied by 1H13C HMBC and 1H15N HMQC/HSQC. The 1H, 13C and 15N coordination shifts (the latter from ca − 78 to ca − 107 ppm) are discussed in relation to the type of metal, electron configuration, coordination sphere geometry and the type of ligand. The 13C and 15N chemical shifts were also calculated by quantum‐chemical NMR methods, which reproduced well the experimental tendencies concerning the coordination sphere geometry and the ligand type. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The hemolytic activity of deoxynivalenol and T‐2 toxin
Authors: Rizzo Aldo F. , Atroshi Faik , Hirvi Timo , Saloniemi Hannu
Published: October 2006

The hemolytic effects of deoxynivalenol (DON) and T‐2 toxin (T‐2) individually on rat erythrocytes were studied at different concentrations. Sodium azide was used as an enzyme inhibitor to prevent T‐2 toxin metabolism. The concentration of T‐2 was controlled by GC‐MS and no decrease of the toxin was found during the time of the experiment. In spite of the much higher toxicity of T‐2 toxin to eucaryotic cells, DON and T‐2 showed similar lytic activity toward erythrocytes at high and low concentrations. Neither of these toxins at a concentration of 130 μg/ml, produced significant hemolysis even after 11 hr incubation. This finding suggests that there is a threshold level for both T‐2 and DON, below which the lytic reaction does not occur. An additional hemolysis test was conducted in the presence of mannitol, glutathione, ascorbic acid, alfatocopherol, and histidine. The assay demonstrated that all the compounds inhibited to some extent the hemolytic reaction of the toxins. It is suggested that DON and T‐2 exert their toxicity on procaryotic cells in three different ways: by penetrating the phospholipid bilayer and acting at the subcellular level, by interacting with the cellular membranes, and by free radical mediated phospholipid peroxidation. Most probably, more than one mechanism operates at the same time. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibodies cross‐reactive with the scorpion‐toxin ii from Androctonus australis Hector elicited in mice by a synthetic peptide
Authors: Ait‐Amara Djamel , Chavez‐Olortegui Carlos , Romi Régine , Mery Jean , Brugidou Jean , Albericio Fernando , Devaux Christiane , Granier Claude
Published: October 2006

With the aim of developing active protection against the noxious effects provoked in humans by scorpion stings, the possibility of eliciting toxin reactive antibodies by immunization with a short peptide was assessed in mice. The amino acid sequence of residues 50 to 59 of Androctonus australis Hector toxin II was chosen, on the basis of previous results indicating that rabbit anti‐(50–59) antibodies neutralize the biological effects of the parent toxin. The peptide was prepared by solid‐phase synthesis procedures and used in different forms (free, linearly polymerized, coupled to KLH, coupled to a low‐molecular weight B‐lymphocyte activator) in order to immunize groups of non‐congenic NMRI or congenic C57BL/6 mice. The reactivities of each serum with the peptide and with the toxin were assessed in ELISA. Strong reactivities with both the peptide (mean titer over 1:52,600) and the toxin (mean titer 1:800) were observed in all mice from the group that received the KLH‐coupled peptide. However, mouse immune sera failed either to recognize the toxin in a liquid‐phase radioimmunoassay or to neutralize the lethal effects of the toxin. The requirements, in terms of affinity and recognition of native conformation, for anti‐peptide antibodies to display neutralizing properties are discussed. © 1992 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lonspray mass spectrometry of ciguatoxin‐1, maitotoxin‐2 and ‐3, and related marine polyether toxins
Authors: Lewis Richard J. , Holmes Michael J. , Alewood Paul F. , Jones Alun
Published: October 2006

A range of marine polyether toxins from dinoflagellates were analysed by ionspray mass spectrometry. Ciguatoxin‐1 ([M + H]+ m/z = 1,111.8) purified from several fish species yielded singly charged ions corresponding to the parent ion, sodium and H2O adducts and ions for the loss of up to five H2O molecules. Ciguatoxin‐1 was detected to 1 ng; however, interference from fish lipids precluded direct detection of ciguatoxin‐1 in crude extracts from fish flesh spiked with ciguatoxin‐1 at a level equivalent to 1.5 ng ciguatoxin‐1/g of extracted flesh. Maitotoxin‐2 yielded doubly and triply charged ions for sodium and potassium salts and likely possessed only one sulphate ester (Mr = 3,298 for the mono‐sodium salt). Maito‐toxin‐3, a recently isolated small maitotoxin, yielded singly charged ions including ions for the loss of one sulphate and up to four H2O molecules. Maitotoxin‐3 is proposed to be a polyether compound possessing two sulphate esters (Mr = 1,060.5 for the disodium salt). Brevetoxin‐A ([M + H]+ m/z = 867.5) and bre‐vetoxin‐B ([M + H]+ m/z = 895.5) yielded singly charged ions corresponding to the parent ion, Na+ adducts and the loss of up to four H2O molecules. Okadaic acid ([M + H]+ m/z = 805.5) yielded singly charged ions corresponding to the parent ion and ions for the loss of up to three H2O molecules. A signal for M + 18 Da species that may represent [M + NH4]+ was observed for ciguatoxin‐1, brevetoxin‐A and ‐B, and okadaic acid. For all polyethers examined, the orifice potential influenced the relative intensity of the ions detected in a predictable manner. lonspray mass spectrometry provides a simple, sensitive means of identifying a range of marine polyether toxins, with the potential to form the basis of confirmatory assays for such toxins. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro neutralization of T‐2 toxin toxicity by a monoclonal antibody
Authors: Minervini Fiorenza , Gyongyosi‐Horvath Agnes , Lucivero Giacomo , Visconti Angelo , Bama‐Vetro Lldiko , Solti Lazlo
Published: October 2006

A T‐2 toxin specific monoclonal antibody, IgGl K, with a low level of ELISA cross‐reactivity to Acetyl T‐2, HT‐2, and iso T‐2 toxins has been produced. The ability of this monoclonal antibocly to neutralize the cytotoxicity of T‐2 toxin in PHA stimulated cultures of human lymphocytes was determined by the MTT method. The complete neutralization of the toxic effect of 0.02 μM T‐2 toxin was obtained with 0.03 μM of MoAb, whereas the 50% neutralizing dose (ND50) was observed at 0.009 of MoAb. Partial neutralization was observed with Acetyl T‐2 toxin (ND, = 0.038 μM) and HT‐2 (ND50 = 0.94 μM). These results could represent a rational for clinical use of T‐2 toxin specific monoclonal antibody in prophylaxis and therapy of T‐2 toxemia. © 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cooked mussels contaminated by Dinophysis sp.: A source of okadaic acid
Authors: Vemoux J. P. , Bansard S. , Simon J. F. , Nwal‐Amang D. , Le‐Baut C. , Gleizes E. , Fremy J. M. , Lasne M. C.
Published: October 2006

A method was developed for fractionation and isolation of toxic components present in extracts prepared from Dinophsis‐contaminated mussels. The major toxin present in French mussels was identified as okadaic acid by its chromatographic properties and spectral data. Large amounts of mussel tissue (digestive glands and remaining meat) can be treated easily if they are cooked, or cooked and dried and are useful for isolating significant amounts of okadaic acid. copy 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of nitrogen concentration and cold temperature on DSP‐toxin concentrations in the dinoflagellateProrocentrum lima(prorocentrales, dinophyceae)
Authors: McLachlan J. L. , Marr J. C. , Conlon‐Keily A. , Adamson A.
Published: October 2006

The diarrhetic shellfish poisoning toxin‐producing dinoflagellate,Prorocentrum lima, isolated from Nova Scotian waters, contained both okadaic acid (OA) and dinophysistoxin‐1 (DTX‐1) throughout its growth cycle in culture; maximum concentrations of toxins and highest OA/DTX‐1 ratios occurred during the stationary phase. Cells ofP. limasurvived 0°C for 5 weeks and recovered when brought to a higher temperature. During the cold period, some cell damage probably occurred with concomitant losses of toxins to the medium. Nitrogen concentration in the medium was used to limit growth or stress the cells physiologically, and when growth was limited, increases in toxin associated with the cells were recorded. The relative amounts of okadaic acid were always greater than dinophysistoxin‐1, but the significance of these ratios remains to be determined. Published 1994 Wiley‐Liss, inc.
Investigation of derivatization reagents for the analysis of diarrhetic shellfish poisoning toxins by liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection
Authors: Marr Julie C. , McDowell Linda M. , Quilliam Michael A.
Published: October 2006

Several derivatization reagents for the conversion of okadaic acid and related DSP toxins to fluorescent derivatives for analysis by liquid chromatosraphy have been examined, viz: 9‐anthryldiazomethane (ADAM), 1‐pyrenyldiazomethane (PDAM), 4‐diazomethyl‐7‐methoxycoumarin (DMMC), 4‐bromomethyl‐7‐methoxycoumarin (BrMMC), 4‐bromomethyl‐7,8‐benzcoumarin (BrMBC), 4‐bromomethyl‐7‐acetoxycoumarin (BrMAC), and 4‐bromomethyl‐6,7‐dimethoxycoumarin (BrDMC). The ADAM reagent provides the greatest selectivity and sensitivity, but its application on a routine basis has been limited by its instability and cost Improvement of this method was achieved through the production of ADAM in situ from the stable 9‐anthraldehyde hydrazone. A detection limit of 30 ng/g hepatopancreas (equivalent to 6 ng/g whole tissue) was achieved. The other aryldiazomethane reagents were found to have insufficient reactivity. Of the bromomethylcoumarin reagents, BrDMC was found to have the greatest promise. The reagent is inexpensive and has excellent stability and purity. Quantitative derivatization may be achieved in a 2 hour reaction at 45°C with N,N‐diisopropylethylamine as a catalyst. Unfortunately, the lower reaction selectivity of BrDMC compared to that of ADAM limits its application to isolated toxins, plankton samples, and shellfish tissues with high levels of DSP toxins. The use of BrDMC for the determination of how toxin levels in shellfish tissues will require development of a more extensive clean‐up prior to derivatization. Successful application of the ADAM and coumarin derivatization methods to real‐world samples has been demonstrated. Published 1994 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Selection of cytotoxic responses to maitotoxin and okadaic acid and evaluation of toxicity of dinoflagellate extracts
Authors: Fessard V. , Diogène G. , Dubreuil A. , Quod J. P. , Durand‐Clément M. , Legay C. , Puiseux‐Dao S.
Published: October 2006

The cytotoxicity of maitotoxin (MTX) and okadaic acid (OA) was studied on three mammalian fibroblast cell lines. Neutral red uptake (NRU), which measures cell viability, and morphological alterations were selected as rapid suitable responses. NRU allowed a precise toxicity quantification while the observations of morphological damage revealed differences specific to MTX (cell blebbing) and OA (cell rounding). BHK21 C13 fibroblasts, although less sensitive to MTX than the other cell lines, were chosen since they gave stable information and a two‐stage morphological response with OA (“square”‐shaped cells, then round cells). When NRU and morphology alterations were studied with crude extracts of Gambierdiscus toxicus and Prorocentrum lima, responses were typical of the dominant toxins, MTX and OA or related toxins respectively. Applied to several dinoflagellate extracts, the two tests revealed no toxicity for Amphidinium carterae, Ostreopsis siamensis, O. ovata and Coolia monotis (from La Réunion) and toxicity for A. carterae and A. operculatum (from Saint Barthélémy). When toxic, A. carterae extracts showed blebbing similar to that caused by MTX. Morphology alterations caused by A. operculatum crude extracts, different from those corresponding to MTX or OA, were also observed. © 1994 wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reliable and sensitive method for determination of microcystins in complicated matrices by frit‐fast atom bombardment liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
Authors: Kondo Fumio , Ikai Yoshitomo , Oka Hisao , Matsumoto Hiroshi , Yamada Seiji , Ishikawa Naohisa , Tsuji Kiyomi , Harada Ken‐Ichi , Shimada Takayuki , Oshikata Motoji , Suzuki Makoto
Published: October 2006

A reliable and sensitive method for determination of hepatotoxic microcystins in complicated matrices by frit‐fast atom bombardment liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (Frit‐FAB LC/MS) is described. Immonium ions of constituent amino acids, which were obtained together with molecular ion species by FAB mass spectral analysis of standard microcystins RR, YR, LR, and [D‐Asp3] and [Dha7]microcystins LR using flow injection system composed of Frit‐FAB probe, showed potential for reliable identification of microcystins by Frit‐FAB LC/MS. Frit‐FAB LC/MS using a microbore column provided not only the baseline separation of standard microcystins RR, YR, and LR but 200‐fold higher sensitivity than that using conventional column. Furthermore, when a selected ion monitoring (SIM) technique was used, the detection limits of microcystins RR, YR, and LR were 300, 350, and 400 pg, respectively, at a signal‐to‐noise ratio of 5:1, and calibration curves of each microcystin showed a linear relationship from 2 ng to 50 ng. Finally, identification and quantitative analyses of microcystins in water samples were carried out. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vitro toxicological investigations of isoxazolinone amino acids of Lathyrus sativus
Authors: Riepe Matthias , Spencer Peter S. , Lambein Fernand , Ludolph Albert C. , Allen Charles N.
Published: October 2006

Two non‐protein amino acids of Lathyrus sativus, β‐(isoxazoline‐5‐on‐2‐yl)‐alanine (BIA) and its higher homologue α‐amino‐γ‐Cisoxazoline‐5‐on‐2‐yl)‐alanine (ACI) were tested for excitotoxic potential. BIA (0.5‐2.0 mM) but not ACI (2.0 mM) produced a concentration‐dependent neurodegeneration in mouse cortical explants. The neuronal damage was prevented by the prior and simultaneous application of 6‐cyano‐7‐nitroquinoxaline‐2,3‐dione (CNQX), indicating that it was mediated by non‐N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate type receptors. BIA (0,5‐2.0 mM) activated CNQX‐sensitive currents which were significantly smaller than those activated by 3‐N‐oxalyl‐L‐2,3‐diaminopropanoic acid (β‐ODAP) or α‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazole‐propionic acid (AMPA) in the majority of neurons. In a small number of cells, BIA (2 mM) produced currents which were similar in amplitude to those activated by β‐ODAP (50 μM). These results suggest that Lathyrus sativus plants engineered to block the synthesis of β‐ODAP may accumulate a neurotoxic precursor and therefore must be tested for the presence of both BIA and β‐ODAP. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Keeping the mycotoxins out: Experience gathered by an international food company
Authors: Pittet Alain
Published: October 2006

As early as the mid‐1960s the analysis of aflatoxins became an important part of Nestlé's quality control programme, especially since the Company's products include a wide variety of milk‐ and cereal‐based foods intended for infants and children. At that time, dealing with this problem was hampered by the lack of simple and reliable analytical methods, the absence of legal provisions in many countries, the widely different origin of the raw materials, and the fact that sources of contamination were often beyond the Company's control. However, over the years substantial progress has been made, mainly by setting up an inspection system including suitable methods of analysis that allow compliance with raw material specifications to be checked at source.

In spite of the fact that the problem of aflatoxins in milk, cereals, and oilseeds has now been largely tackled, it is increasingly necessary to step up our mycotoxin surveillance programme. Indeed, several other mycotoxins have now become a matter of concern, as witnessed by the recent fumonisin scare. Moreover, increasingly severe legislations put a heavy burden on the analysts responsible for the inspection of the raw materials, especially in European countries.

This article presents the Company's considerable efforts over a period of almost 30 years in trying to keep the mycotoxins out, or at least to limit their concentrations to the lowest possible levels. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Measurement of glucosinolates in rapeseeds
Authors: Wathelet Jean‐Paul , Marlier Michel , Severin Michel , Boenke Achim , Wagstaffe Peter John
Published: October 2006

Several ring tests have been organized by the International Organisation for Standardization (ISO) and the Measurement and Testing Programme (BCR) for improving glucosinolate methods. Finally, HPLC of desulphoglucosinolates is recommended by ISO, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN), and the European Commission (EC) as the official method. X‐ray fluorescence has also become particularly common for fast analysis.

After checking stabilityof intact glucosinolates in whole rapeseeds, the BCR has three reference materials (CRM 366, CRM 190, CRM 367) available, certified for their total glucosinolate and sulphur contents.

Currently, the Measurement and Testing Programme is supporting a research project concerning the stability of desulphoglucosinolates and intact glucosinolates extracts. At the present time, best results are observed with lyophilized extracts sealed in brown glass ampoules and stored at −18°C. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Making sense of meta‐analysis
Authors: Egger Matthias , Smith George Davey , Song Fujian , Sheldon Trevor A.
Published: October 2006

Meta‐analyses of clinical trials have become increasingly popular over the last decade. This technique pools data from different studies in order to provide an overview and obtain more precise estimates of treatment effects. Meta‐analyses may thus detect or exclude small but clinically relevant effects or side effects. A number of criteria have to be met for a reliable meta‐analysis of clinical trials. Only randomized trials analysed according to the intention‐to‐treat principle with complete follow‐up information and comparable, objective outcome assessments should generally be included. Treatments must be comparable from a clinical and pharmacological point of view and similarity of lengths of follow‐up is important when the effect of a treatment varies over time. In this review, the statistical models commonly used are discussed and an example of a well conducted meta‐analysis is given. Several unresolved problems pertinent to meta‐analysis are considered. It is difficult to ensure that all relevant trials have been identified. Selective inclusion of trials may distort results. Important differences in the quality of the studies are generally not taken into account in meta‐analyses. Statistical testing for heterogeneity and the use of random effects models cannot resolve the problems which arise when study results are highly variable. Finally, the clinical application of the results from meta‐analysis may be problematic, since the patients included in the constituent trials are often not representative of the range of patients seen in clinical practice. Meta‐analyses should be viewed as a powerful addition to traditional methods of reviewing medical evidence. In interpreting their results, however, care should be taken not to go beyond the available data.
Analysing psychiatric side‐effects of beta‐blockers using large computerized data bases
Authors: Isacson Dag , Bingefors Kerstin , Carlson Gunvar
Published: October 2006

Objective — To use a large computerized data base to evaluate the relationship between beta‐blockers and psychiatric side‐effects.

Design — The hybrid design included retrospective cohort and case‐control studies.

Setting — A Swedish municipality of around 20,000 inhabitants during 1980–1982.

Participants — All new users of beta‐blockers (N = 542) were identified. Unexposed individuals without previous use of cardiovascular drugs were assigned from the data base through category matching by age and sex.

Main outcome measure — Prescriptions of sedatives, hypnotics, and antidepressants filled in the 365 days preceding or following the index date.

Results — The case‐control analysis showed that previous use of sedatives, hypnotics or antidepressants was common among new users of beta‐blockers, demonstrating a history of psychiatric problems.

The cohort analysis showed that new users started using sedatives, hypnotics, or antidepressant drugs to a greater extent than those who were not exposed to beta‐blockers, after controlling for three confounding variables: previous use of sedatives, hypnotics, or antidepressants; heavy use of physician visits; and heavy use of prescription drugs. There were no statistically significant differences in psychotropic use between users of propranolol and users of other beta‐blockers.

Conclusions — In spite of the positive finding, we did not establish a causal relationship between beta‐blockers and psychiatric side‐effects. Our data base lacked information to control for confounders like personality, stress, life events, or working environment. Neither could we control for confounding by indication, which must be important, considering the strong relationship between prior use of psychotropics and new use of beta‐blockers. The methodological problems in this study illustrate some of the difficulties of using large computerized data bases for analysing adverse drug effects.
Patient self‐monitoring: A challenging approach to pharmacoepidemiology
Authors: Fisher Seymour
Published: October 2006

This paper reports the development over the past 10 years of an innovative patient self‐monitoring method of (1) signalling possible adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and unexpected beneficial drug reactions, and (2) providing incidence estimates and relative risks. The system's validity has been well documented in a series of published papers. There is no other existing postmarketing surveillance method that can obtain early reliable and accurate patient reports about possible side‐effects. We thought that, having successfully developed and validated the method, both the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the pharmaceutical industry would recognize the need to support its application as an important complementary approach to existing postmarketing surveillance methods. Despite our repeated requests, however, neither FDA nor industry has shown any interest in helping to sustain this research, in part because pharmacoepidemiologists tend to focus on the detection of serious ADRs as defined and diagnosed by physicians, but also because it has become patently clear that the US pharmaceutical industry does not want its new drugs to be monitored for possible ADRs. Thus there is virtually no systematic attention being paid to the possible importance of less serious ADRs as inferred from accurate patient reports of behavioural and subjective symptoms — which, especially with CNS‐acting drugs, may often be essential for obtaining reliable ADR profiles.
Ring‐opening polymerization of the cyclic dimer of poly(trimethylene terephthalate)
Authors: Pang Kyeong , Kotek Richard , Tonelli Alan
Published: October 2006

Poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) was prepared by the ring‐opening polymerization of its cyclic dimer. Antimony(III) oxide, titanium(IV) butoxide, dibutyltin oxide, and titanium(IV) isopropoxide were used as catalysts. Among the catalysts, titanium(IV) butoxide was the most effective for the same reaction conditions. A weight‐average molecular weight of 63,500 g/mol was obtained from ring‐opening poly merization at 265 °C for 2 h in the presence of 0.5 mol % titanium(IV) butoxide. The PTTs obtained from the polymerization catalyzed with increasing amounts of antimony(III) oxide showed increasing weight‐average molecular weights and reaction conversions. When 1 mol % antimony(III) oxide was used, the weight‐average molecular weight was 32,000 g/mol and the conversion was 82% after 1 h of polymerization at 265 °C. In the case of the polymer catalyzed by titanium(IV) butoxide under the same conditions, the weight‐average molecular weight and conversion were 40,000 g/mol and 77% when 0.25 mol % was used, whereas 0.5 mol % catalyst produced a weight‐average molecular weight of 27,000 g/mol and a conversion of 95%. To get an acceptable molecular weight and relatively high reaction conversion, a catalyst concentration of at least 0.5 mol % was found to be necessary, in contrast to conventional condensation polymerizations, which require only about one‐tenth of this amount of the catalyst. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 6801–6809, 2006
Jatropha curcas: Use as a traditional Tswana medicine and its role as a cause of acute poisoning
Authors: Mampane K. J. , Joubert P. H. , Hay I. T.
Published: October 2006

Jatropha curcas, although not indigenous to South Africa is found widely and has become incorporated into traditional Tswana medicine as a laxative. During the first 10 months of 1986, 50 cases out of a total of 442 admitted to Ga‐Rankuwa hospital with acute poisoning were due to accidental ingestion of the seeds. All cases were children. They presented with nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps and 10 needed intravenous fluid replacement. Out of 43 cases of acute poisoning with traditional medicines, 31 presented with a similar clinical picture. Interviews with traditional healers have indicated that the toxic effects of Jatropha curcas are known and that misuse appears to be uncommon. In the light of our findings an educational poster campaign is planned for 1987.
Recent advances in clinical studies of Chinese medicinal herbs 1. Drugs affecting the cardiovascular system
Authors: Peigen Xiao , Keji Chen
Published: October 2006

In this paper, recent advances concerning clinical studies of Chinese medicinal herbs, used for the treatment of cardiovascular disease, have been reviewed. These include plants and preparations found to be useful for the treatment of coronary heart diseases, thrombotic disease, hyperlipidemia and arrhythmia. The sources, structure of active principles and the results of clinical observations in patients are presented together with pharmacological and biochemical data where available.
Assay method for antihepatotoxic activity using macrophage‐mediated cytotoxicity in primary cultured hepatocytes
Authors: Kiso Yoshinobu , Kato Shinsuke , Kawakami Yutaka , Hikino Hiroshi
Published: October 2006

Conditions were examined to establish an in vitro assay method for antihepatotoxic activity using macrophage‐mediated cytotoxicity in primary cultured mouse liver cells. Satisfactory assay procedure was achieved utilizing 3 h preincubated mouse hepatocytes and 18 h lipopolysaccharide‐activated mouse peritoneal macrophages. Some natural products known to exert liver‐protective effects in experimental liver damages were screened for antihepatotoxic activity by this assay method to reveal that cynarin, desoxypodophyllotoxin and silybin showed significant antihepatotoxic activity but at high concentrations cytotoxic effects were observed in desoxypodophyllotoxin and silybin. The utility of this assay method is discussed.
Evaluation of the effects of environmental factors on molluscicidal properties of Aridan (Tetrapleura tetraptera), Lapalapa pupa (Jatropha gossypyfolia), Endod (Phytolacca dodecandra) and Bayluscide
Authors: Adewunmi C. O. , Marquis V. O.
Published: October 2006

Effects of environmental factors on the molluscicidal activities of Aridan (Tetrapleura tetraptera), Endod (Phytolacca dodecandra), Lapalapa pupa (Jatropha gossypyfolia) and Bayluscide have been determined in the laboratory and in the field. Organic materials such as river mud and weeds reduced the molluscicidal potency of all the molluscicides. Bayluscide has a good residual effect, a property which is not shown by any of the vegetable molluscicides assayed. Although the methanolic extract of the fruit of Jatropha gossypyfolia has shown some promise, its traditional use cannot be recommended from the results of these experiments.
Effects of gossypol on guinea pig airway responsiveness: in vitro and in vivo studies
Authors: Touvay Caroline , Vilain Béatrice , Mencia‐Huerta Jean Michel , Braquet Pierre
Published: October 2006

The actions of the naturally occurring polyphenol, gossypol, on guinea pig lung parenchymal strip preparations, bronchoconstriction in anaesthetized guinea pigs and platelet aggregation were examined. At concentrations between 0.2 and 20 μg/ml gossypol markedly inhibited contraction of lung parenchymal strips induced by LTB4 and LTD4, but was less effective against histamine‐induced contraction. Gossypol also inhibited contraction induced by platelet‐activating factor‐acether (PAF‐acether) but was not as effective as BN52021, a specific PAF‐acether antagonist. In addition, gossypol failed to antagonize PAF‐acether‐induced bronchoconstriction in anaesthetized guinea pigs or the histamine‐dependent bronchoconstriction response to ovalbumin in passively sensitized animals. Gossypol was minimally effective in inhibiting PAF‐acether‐induced platelet aggregation. This polyphenol displays a similar spectrum of effects to the radical scavenger NGDA, suggesting that, in common with other phenolic antioxidants, it may interfere with the formation of cyclo‐oxygenase products in the guinea pig lung.
Gastrointestinal actions of garlic oil
Authors: Joshi D. J. , Dikshit R. K. , Mansuri S. M.
Published: October 2006

The effect of garlic oil on gastrointestinal propulsion of charcoal meal and castor oil‐induced diarrhea in mice was studied. It was found to depress both these parameters significantly. It is concluded that garlic oil may act as a potent relaxant of the smooth muscle of the gastrointestinal tract and that it should be further evaluated in patients exhibiting hypermotile intestinal disorders.
Anti‐trypanosomal activity of Alchornia cordifolia
Authors: Agbe S. A. O. , Oguntimein B.
Published: October 2006

Extracts of the leaves and fruits of Alchornia cordifolia (ACL2 and ACF2) were found to inhibit the growth of Trypanosoma brucei brucei in rats. Purification of ACL2 and ACF2 yielded fractions ACL3, ACL4 and ACF3, ACF4, respectively, which were inactive. However fractions ACF3 and ACF4 were found to be toxic in rats. The trypanocidal activity of these extracts were compared to suramin.
Recent advances in clinical studies of Chinese medicinal herbs 2. Clinical trials of Chinese herbs in a number of chronic conditions
Authors: Peigen Xiao , Keji Chen
Published: October 2006

In Part 2 of recent advances in clinical studies of Chinese Medicinal Herbs, plant drugs used in a number of chronic diseases are discussed and the results of clinical trials reviewed. These include, plants used in the treatment of cancer and tumours, nervous diseases and senility, parasite infections including malaria, hepatitis and drugs which have demonstrated effects as hemostatic agents in immunoregulation as leukocyte proliferating agents.
Effect of short‐term administration of cocaine on select organs and the hemopoietic system of B6C3F1 mice
Authors: Valentine J. L. , Paulsen Robert , Faith Robert , Miller‐Hardy Dianne , Stephen P. M.
Published: October 2006

Cocaine was administered to B6C3F1 female mice at doses of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 mg/kg for 7 consecutive days. Body weight of the cocaine treated animals compared to saline controls demonstrated dose related decreases that were significant at higher doses. Comparison of relative organ weights demonstrated significant increases in liver weight at all dose levels whereas thymus and spleen weight decreased significantly at higher doses. No significant changes were found in adrenal weights. Pathological changes were consistently noted in livers with doses of 30 mg/kg or greater using light microscopy. Electron microscopy studies performed on animals receiving 50 and 60 mg/kg showed hepatocytes in various stages of degenerative vacuolization, which were restricted to centrilobular areas of livers. Numbers of hepatocytes with such changes were dose related. Significant changes in the hemopoietic system were noted at doses of 50 mg/kg for hematocrit, 60 mg/kg for RBCs, 50 and 60 mg/kg for mean corpuscular volume, 40, 50 and 60 mg/kg for hemoglobin, and dose independent changes for the ratio of segmented neutrophils to lymphocytes.
Investigations of the cytoprotective effect of the gut stimulating principle of Croton penduliflorus hutch. Seed oil in rats
Authors: Asuzu I. U. , Shetty S. N. , Anika S. M.
Published: October 2006

Indomethacin (10 mg/kg, p.o.) was used to induce gastric and duodenal ulcers of varying severity (scored as 1–9) in albino rats. Croton penduliflorus seed oil crystals (CP crystals) were administered to groups of rats at varying doses (6, 12, and 18mg/kg, p.o.). The ulcers observed in groups treated with indomethacin and CP crystals consisted mainly of the hyperemic conditions with one or two lesions (scored as 1–3) and medium sized lesions of moderate depth (scored as 4–6). Severe lesions with large diameter and depth (scored as 7–9 severity) observed in the control group treated with indomethacin only were absent in indomethacin and CP crystals treated groups. CP crystals offered significant (p < 0.05) protection against gastric ulcers when given at 12 mg/kg and against duodenal ulcers when given at 6, 12 and 18 mg/kg. The maximum cytoprotection against duodenal ulcers was observed in rats treated with 18 mg/kg of CP crystals.
Immunotherapeutic modification of experimental infections by Indian medicinal plants
Authors: Thattet U. M. , Dahanukar S. A.
Published: October 2006

Secondary infections are the most common cause of mortality in the immunocompromised host. A recent therapeutic approach has aimed at bolstering the host's defence mechanism to assist in eradication of infection, using naturally occurring and synthetic substances like BCG, C. parvum, muramyl dipeptide and glucans. Tinospora cordifolia (TC), Asparagus racemosus (AR) and Withania somnifera (WS) are plants prescribed in Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine, as agents to strengthen host defence mechanisms. The present article reviews the effects of TC, AR and WS in diverse experimental infections. TC, AR and WS protected rats against caecal ligation induced abdominal sepsis and mice against Escherichia coli peritonitis. This was associated with a faster bacteremia clearance. Myelosuppression induced by single and multiple doses of cyclophosphamide was reversed. Mortality due to Staphylococcus aureus sepsis in neutropenic and hemisplenectomized mice was reduced in treated animals. Candida albicans sepsis induced mortality was also reduced by the plants. The plants induced leucocytosis with predominant neutrophilia associated with stimulation of phagocytic and bactericidal capacity of neutrophils and macrophages. In view of their oral efficacy and relative lack of adverse effects, AR, TC and WS show promise as useful immunomodulators.
Comparative hypotensive and respiratory stimulation effects of ripe and unripe fruit mucilage of Cordia myxa and Cordia obliqua in guineapigs and rabbits
Authors: Abou‐Shaaban R. R. A. , Al‐Angari A. A. , El‐Tahir K. E. H. , Al‐Khamis K. I. , Mirghani O. M.
Published: October 2006

The comparative pharmacological activity of Cordia fruit mucilage at different stages of maturity was investigated to determine the stage at which active substances were present in high proportions. The fruit mucilage of ripe and unripe Cordia myxa (RCm and URCm) decreased rabbit arterial blood pressure in a dose dependent manner without affecting the respiratory rate. Mucilage from both ripe and unripe Cordia obliqua (RCo and URCo) decreased rabbit blood pressure and stimulated the respiratory rate. RCm is 12.37‐fold more potent as a hypotensive agent than RCo. However the respiratory stimulant effect of RCo is 7‐fold more than its own hypotensive effect. Investigation of the mode of action revealed that the hypotensive effect was more likely due to activation of parasympathetic ganglia and dilatation of peripheral blood vessels, whereas the respiratory stimulant effect may partly be due to activation of chemoreceptors in the aortic arch and carotid body. In addition, a subeffective dose of the ripe fruit mucilage specifically antagonized nicotine‐induced hypotensive effect on rabbit and nicotine ganglionic stimulant effect on the isolated guineapig ileum.
Effects of onion and garlic extracts on spontaneously hypertensive rats
Authors: Kivirantat Jari , Huovinen Keijo , Seppänen‐Laakso Tuulikki , Hiltunen Raimo , Karppanen Heikki , Kilpeläinen Mikko
Published: October 2006

The effects of ethanolic extracts of onion and garlic, on blood pressure and plasma fatty acid composition were studied in spontaneously hypertensive rats. Oral administration of the extracts for up to 7 weeks during a normal salt diet or during a high salt diet did not influence the blood pressure. The percentage of two fatty acids in platelet‐rich plasma changed following garlic supplementation. The increase in the relative amount of linoleic acid and the simultaneous decrease in arachidonic acid were statistically significant. In the case of onion only the decrease in arachidonic acid was statistically significant. The changes in lipid metabolism could be responsible for the apparent beneficial effects of onion and garlic on the inhibition of platelet aggregation.
Identification of antibacterial principles against Streptococcus mutans and inhibitory principles against glucosyltransferase from the seed of Areca catechu L
Authors: Hada L Sumitra , Kakiuchi Nobuko , Hattori Masao , Namba Tsuneo
Published: October 2006

During the course of our studies on dental caries prevention by traditional medicines, fatty acids (myristic and oleic acids etc.) and procyanidins from betel nuts (the seed of Areca catechu L.) were respectively revealed to be the major antibacterial principles against a primary cariogenic bacterium, Streptococcus mutans, and the major inhibitory principles against glucosyltransferase from S. mutans.
Antibacterial activities of the leaf extracts of Eugenia uniflora Linn. (Synonym Stenocalyx michelli Linn.) Myrtaceae
Authors: Fadeyit M. O. , Akpan U. E.
Published: October 2006

The aqueous, organic, and volatile oil extracts of leaves of Eugenia uniflora Linn. Family Myrtaceae were investigated for antibacterial properties using agar dilution techniques. The aqueous extract was the most active against the organisms compared to the organic and volatile oil extracts. The extracts were found to inhibit Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis and Gram negative Escherichia coli and Shigella dysentcriae. Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniac, and Salmonella typhi were not inhibited.
Comparative examination of two Zanthoxylum benzophenanthridine alkaloids for effects in rabbits
Authors: Addae‐Mensah Ivan , Munenge Rahab , Guantai Anastasia N.
Published: October 2006

Cardiovascular activities of nitidine chloride from Zanthoxylum chalybeum have been compared with those of 9‐methoxychelerythrine. Whereas nitidine chloride was found to show significant hypotensive activity in rabbits, 9‐methoxychelerythrine chloride showed no hypotensive activity. The effect of nitidine chloride on isolated rabbit heart was also compared with those of adrenaline and acetyicholine. 9‐Methoxychelerythrine, which has hitherto been regarded as an artefact formed by recrystallization of chelerythrine base from methanol, has been shown in this work to be a true natural constituent of Zanthoxylum chalybeum.
The medicinal uses of cannabis and its constituents
Authors: Formukong E. A. , Evans A. T. , Evans F. J.
Published: October 2006

Recent work contributing towards an understanding of the mechanism of action of cannabis and its constituents is described and the known therapeutic and pharmacological activities of these substances reviewed, together with synthetic drugs derived from tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ1‐THC). The medical uses discussed include the actions of cannabinoids in the treatment of glaucoma, asthma, emesis, hyperthermia, convulsion, muscle spasticity, anxiety, hypertension, pain and inflammation.
Zizyphus sativa fruits: Evaluation of some biological activities and toxicity
Authors: Shah Arif H. , Ai‐Bekairi Abdullah M. , Qureshi Shoeb , Ageel Abdulrehman M.
Published: October 2006

The ethanolic extract of Zizyphus sativa Gaertn (Syn. = Z. jujuba Mill.) fruit has been screened for anti‐inflammatory, analgesic, antipyretic, bronchodilator and antimicrobial activities. It has been found to produce significant inhibition of carrageenan‐induced paw oedema and cotton pellet‐induced granuloma pouch and a significant analgesic activity. It did not produce any significant effect on body temperature and isolated guinea pig tracheal chain. It inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtills. During acute toxiciry, test observations were made for 24 h while the animals were treated for 3 months in chronic treatment. External morphological changes, visceral toxiciry, haematological changes, spermatogenic dysfunction, besides effects on average body weight and vital organ weight were recorded. This crude drug was found to be devoid of any significant toxic effects.
Structure/activity analysis of resiniferatoxin analogs
Authors: Szallasi Arpad , Sharkey Nancy A. , Blumberg Peter M.
Published: October 2006

Resiniferatoxin (RTX), unlike the structurally related phorbol esters, acts as an ultrapotent analog of capsaicin, the pungent principle of the red pepper. A homovanillyl group is an essential structural feature of capsaicin and the most prominent feature distinguishing resiniferatoxin from typical phorbol‐related compounds. In this report, we examine the RTX‐like activity of two 20‐homovanillyl esters of diterpene derivatives with particular similarities to RTX. The potency of 12‐deoxyphorbol 13‐phenylacetate 20‐homovanillate (dPP‐HV) was comparable to RTX for local induction and desensitization of chemical pain but was 2–4 orders of magnitude less potent for the other RTX responses tested (stimulation and desensitization of neurogenic inflammation and hypothermia). Mezerein 20‐homovanillate (Mez‐HV) displayed very weak activity in pain induction and was inactive in the other assays. The parent derivatives ‐ resiniferonol orthophenylacetate, 12‐deoxyphorbol 13‐phenylacetate and mezerein ‐ were inactive in inducing RTX‐like effects. Reciprocally, the presence of the 20‐homovanillate ester reduced binding affinities to protein kinase C by 11‐, 130‐ and 690‐fold for RTX, dPP‐HV and Mez‐HV, respectively. Our findings provide further evidence for heterogeneity among capsaicin‐sensitive pathways. Most significantly, our results demonstrate that esterincation of phorbol‐related diterpenes with homovanillic acid can yield capsaicin analogs with unique activities.
The antimalarial activity of chromatographic fractions of Spathodea campanulata stem bark extracts against Plasmodium berghei berghei in mice
Authors: Makindet J. M. , Amusan O. O. G. , Adesogan E. K.
Published: October 2006

Extracts of the stem bark of Spathodea campanulata which showed blood schizontocidal action were purified by column chromatography. The action of the fractions was studied using Fink and Kretschmar and Rane tests with chloroquine as reference drug. Column chromatography was effective for isolating the fractions responsible for the antimalarial property of the crude extracts. Some chromatographic fractions demonstrated significant antimalarial activity which was higher than that observed with the crude extracts.
Effects of Echinacea purpurea extracts on fibroblast populated collagen lattice contraction
Authors: Zoutewelle Gerry , van Wijk Roeland
Published: October 2006

The fibroblast populated collagen lattice was used to study the influence of extracts from roots or herbal parts of Echinacea purpurea on the collagen contracting ability of C3H10T1/2 mouse fibroblasts. Collagen gel contraction was inhibited by herb and root extracts which were added at the time of preparation of the gel. Inhibition was dependent on the amount of extract, the initial cell density and the collagen concentration used for preparation of the gel. When cell density was increased or collagen concentration decreased, the resulting increase in contraction counteracts the inhibitory effect of root extracts strongly, and that of herb extracts to a much lesser extent. The addition of extracts 1 h after preparation of the gel could hardly prevent contraction. Echinacea extracts inhibited the cell morphological changes which are characteristic for fibroblasts contracting a collagen gel. The inhibition of morphological changes parallels the inhibition of collagen gel contraction in many respects. The significance of these observations is discussed in relation to the process of wound healing.
Gastric antisecretory, antiulcer and cytoprotective properties of ethanolic extract of Alpinia galanga willd in rats
Authors: Al‐Yahya M. A. , Rafatullah S. , Mossa J. S. , Ageel A. M. , Al‐Said M. S. , Tariq M.
Published: October 2006

The effect of Alpinia galanga extract has been studied on experimentally induced gastric ulcers in rats. The ethanolic extract of A. galanga at a dose of 500 mg/kg, significantly reduced the intensity of gastric mucosal damage induced by pyloric ligation and hypothermic restraint stress in rats. It produced a significant decrease in gastric secretion in pylorus ligated rats and a highly significant cytoprotective effect against 80% ethanol‐, 0.6 M HCI‐, 0.2 M NaOH‐ and 25% NaCl‐induced cytodestruction. Pretreatment with the extract significantly prevented hypothermic stress‐induced gastric wall mucus depletion. These findings suggest that a significant antisecretory and cytoprotective action of A. galanga may be responsible for its antiulcer activity.