bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predicting prescribing costs: A model of northern Ireland general practices
Authors: Wilson‐Davis Keith , Stevenson William G.
Published: October 2006

Prescription costs are large and rising yet previous studies attempting to explain the variation in them have not been very successful.

We analysed the prescribing costs for all GPs in Northern Ireland for the month of November 1990.

Using a simple linear regression model we can explain 91.9% of the total variation in Northern Ireland GPs' monthly prescribing costs using only the two variables of the number of children aged under 5 and the number of elderly aged 60 years and over on a GP's list, all other age‐groups did not add anything substantial to the model or explained variation in costs. Inclusion of ‘deprived patients’ (as measured by the Jarman Index) adds only £0.15 per patient to a GPs monthly prescribing cost total.

The model requires further testing but has a large potential for GP audit and peer review in the area of prescribing costs.
Patient compliance with beta‐blocker medication in general practice
Authors: Petri H. , Urquhart J.
Published: October 2006

We measured compliance with beta‐blocking drugs in a group of 105 patients with uncomplicated hypertension, and without coronary heart disease or other major concomitant disease. We measured compliance with an electronic monitor (MEMS®) that records time and date of each opening of the container in which the patient's regularly prescribed beta blocker was dispensed. This measurement was compared with their physicians' estimates of their compliance with the prescribed beta blocker regimen. Patients were followed during a period of 2–6 months, for a total of 15,274 days of observation. In 820 (5.4 per cent) of observation days dosing was incorrect; in 619 days, one or more tablets were omitted, and in 201 days one or more extra doses were taken. In 64 of the 105 patients, we observed drug holidays: days without evidence of beta blocker dosing. Concordance was low between the physicians' estimates and MEMS‐measured compliance, with a tendency toward physician overestimation of compliance. The study enrolled only patients long treated for uncomplicated disease, with no other serious concomitant illness; this special selection probably accounts for the relatively good compliance found.
Long term health effects of breast augmentation: A review
Authors: Berkel J. , Filius P. M. G. , Dik E. , De Boer A.
Published: October 2006

In this paper we have reviewed the existing scientific evidence with regard to long term health effects of breast implants. Two areas of concern have been voiced in the literature. Firstly the fear of an increased risk of cancer, specifically breast cancer, after cosmetic augmentation and secondly the potential relationship with the development of connective tissue disorders.

In regard to the potential increased risk of breast cancer we conclude that no scientific evidence exists for a cause‐effect relationship between silicone‐gel filled implants and breast cancer. In fact all epidemiologic studies have found lower than expected risk estimates. Although some early studies have suggested that the presence of implants cause a delay in diagnosis and thus lead to a worse survival and prognosis, the evidence for this is unconvincing. In the large scale cohort studies no detrimental effect on survival was found. Data on the possible risk difference for other cancers are too scarce to permit a firm conclusion.

With respect to connective tissue disorders, we conclude that the epidemiologic studies reported to date do not support a cause‐effect relationship between silicone implants and connective tissue disorders. Some circumstantial evidence, such as the presence of autoimmune phenomena, granuloma formation and a distinct HLA phenotype in women with dermatomyositis after implantation, is available indicating that a plausible biologic mechanism could exist. Overall, however, the evidence does not permit the conclusion that silicone‐gel filled implants cause connective tissue disorders.
Utilization of antibiotics in caesarean section: A multicentre study
Authors: Th‐Akib Husniah Rubiana , Bapna Jawahar Singh , Uppal Roma , Jinghua Cheng , Xia Yan Bao , Kafle Kumar Kumud
Published: October 2006

This is a prospective multicentre study on patients undergoing Caesarean section, to compare the use of antibiotics in surgery, in four selected countries. Patients admitted within a 6‐month period in each centre were included. Study days were 6 days a month and were taken randomly from all working days in a month. Antibiotic use was recorded pre‐ and post‐operatively. The most commonly used antibiotic in all countries was ampicillin, except in China. Mode of the number of antibiotics used as prophylactic was 1 in India and Nepal, 2 in China and 3 in Indonesia. Duration of antibiotic(s) use was 7–8 days in all countries. Antibiotic prophylaxis for Caesarean section was used improperly, especially in respect to the number, duration and kind of antibiotic given.
Novel blue‐greenish electroluminescent poly(fluorenevinylene‐alt‐dibenzothiophenevinylene)s and their model compounds
Authors: Mikroyannidis John A. , Moshopoulou Helen A. , Anastasopoulos John A. , Stylianakis Minas M. , Fenenko Larysa , Adachi Chihaya
Published: October 2006

Poly(9,9‐dihexylfluorene‐2,7‐vinylene‐alt‐dibenzothiophene‐2,8‐vinylene) (PS) and poly(9,9‐dihexylfluorene‐2,7‐vinylene‐alt‐dibenzothiophene‐5,5‐dioxide‐2,8‐ vinylene) (PSO) as well as corresponding model compounds were synthesized by Heck coupling. Both the polymers and model compounds were readily soluble in common organic solvents such as tetrahydrofuran, dichloromethane, chloroform, and toluene. The polymers showed a decomposition temperature at ∼430 °C and a char yield of about 65% at 800 °C in N2. The glass‐transition temperatures of the polymers were almost identical (75–77 °C) and higher than those of the model compounds (26–45 °C). All samples absorbed around 390 nm, and their optical band gaps were 2.69–2.85 eV. They behaved as blue‐greenish light emitting materials in both solutions and thin films, with photoluminescence emission maxima at 450–483 nm and photoluminescence quantum yields of 0.52–0.72 in solution. Organic light‐emitting diodes with an indium tin oxide/poly(ethylene dioxythiophene):poly(styrene sulfonic acid)/polymer/Mg:Ag/Ag configuration with polymers PS and PSO as emitting layers showed green electroluminescence with maxima at 530 and 540 nm, respectively. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 44: 6790–6800, 2006
Antitumor promoting activity of (−)‐epigallocatechin gallate, the main constituent of “Tannin” in green tea
Authors: Yoshizawa Shigeru , Horiuchi Takahiko , Fujiki Hirota , Yoshida Takashi , Okuda Takuo , Sugimura Takashi
Published: October 2006

(−)‐Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the main polyphenolic constituent of extracts of green tea. EGCG slightly inhibited specific binding of [3H] 12‐0‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate ([3H]TPA) to a particulate fraction of mouse skin, and caused a prompt decrease in the phorbol ester receptor number in mouse skin. It also inhibited the activation of protein kinase C by teleocidin. In week 25 of a two‐stage carcinogenesis experiment in mouse skin, tumors were found in 53% of the mice treated with 7,12‐dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) plus teleocidin, but in only 13% of those treated with DMBA plus teleocidin and EGCG. The average number of tumors per mouse in these groups was 2.1 and 0.1, respectively. No tumors were found in other groups treated with DMBA alone or teleocidin and EGCG alone. Thus EGCG inhibited tumor promotion by teleocidin.
Age‐ and individual‐related specificities in the effects of standardized ginseng extract on learning and memory (experiments on rats)
Authors: Petkov V. D. , Mosharrof A. H.
Published: October 2006

Using a two‐way active avoidance with punishment (electric shock) reinforcement (shuttle box) we investigated the effects of Panax ginseng extract, standardized according to the content of ginsenosides on learning and memory in 2‐, 10‐, and 22‐month old Wistar rats and in rats of the same age (5‐month old) which, after a preliminary training with the same method, had been classified as ‘good’, ‘poor’ and ‘satisfactory’ learners. In experiments on rats of different ages G115 was administered orally daily for 10 consecutive days before training at increasing doses of 3, 10, 30 and 100 mg/kg body weight. The animals were trained for 5 days and the retention test was given 14 days after the last administration of G115 (10 days after the last training session). In experiments on rats with different learning capabilities G115 was administered orally at a dose of 10 mg/kg for 10 days after shuttle box training. The retention test was performed on the day following the last treatment with G115. It was found that G115 exerted the most favourable effects on learning and memory when these processes were decayed as a result either of senescence or of individual specificities.
Natural 2,5‐bisaryltetrahydrofuran lignans: Platelet‐activating factor antagonists
Authors: Biftu Tesfaye , Stevenson Robert
Published: October 2006

Lignans are a class of naturally occurring compounds characterized by bonding of two aryl propanoids at the 2‐position. Recently, an increasing significance of the biological activities of these compounds has been recognized. Members of 2,5‐bisaryltetrahydrofuran class of lignans are antagonists of the potent bioactive phospholipid, platelet activating factor (PAF). In this review, a survey of the occurrence, physical properties of all known bisaryltetrahydrofurans and reported biological activities as PAF antagonists is given.
Evaluation of the healing activity of hydrocotyle tincture in the treatment of wounds
Authors: Morisset R. , Côté N. G. , Panisset J. C. , Jemni L. , Camirand P. , Brodeur A.
Published: October 2006

The object of this study was to evaluate the healing activity of CothylineTM, a new formulation comprising asiaticoside as the main ingredient in combination with antiseptic adjuvants. The study has two parts: (1) a clinical phase involving the observation of patients afflicted with soiled wounds and chronic or recurrent atony which was resistant to the usual treatment, and (2) an experimental phase in which the healing action of Cothyline was evaluated by light and electron microscopic observation of the morphological changes that occurred in scarified guinea pig skin. Treatment of patients with Cothyline completely healed (64%) or improved (16%) the lesions under study. In the animal study, it was shown that changes occurred in the shape and size of the keratohyaline granules, a phenomenon observed during accelerated healing. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the healing action of Cothyline has been demonstrated in an objective and controlled manner. Cothyline has the unique advantage of simultaneously acting as an antiseptic and a cicatrizant; moreover, it affects all four phases of healing. This drug constitutes a new and advantageous approach in the treatment of wounds.
Dose–response effects of one subfraction of Desmodium adscendens aqueous extract on antigen‐ and arachidonic acid‐induced contractions of guinea‐pig airways
Authors: Addy Marian E. , Burka John F.
Published: October 2006

Desmodium adscendens is used in Ghana for the management of asthma. The first fraction (F1), isolated from an aqueous extract of the plant material by flash chromatography, was evaluated for its anti‐allergic properties using ovalbumin (OA)‐ and arachidonic acid (AA)‐induced contractions of tracheal spirals and lung parenchymal strips from guinea pigs. F1 inhibited OA‐ and AA‐induced contractions in both tissues dose‐dependently. In the AA‐induced contractions, F1 was more effective on the tracheal spirals than on the lung parenchymal strip. On the OA‐induced contractions of tracheal spirals, there was enhancement of the early phase of the contraction in the absence of indomethacin. This effect, which was biphasic, was not seen when the tissues were pretreated with indomethacin. Higher concentrations of F1 were required to effect the same inhibition in the absence of indomethacin than in its presence. F1 inhibited all phases of OA‐induced contractions of lung parenchymal strips by >80% at the highest concentration used (0.9 mg/mL). The results suggest that F1 inhibits both the cyclo‐oxygenase and the lipoxygenase pathways of AA metabolism. F1 also appears to inhibit the release of arachidonic acid.
Effect of Khaya grandifoliola extract on Plasmodium berghei berghei in mice
Authors: Makinde J. M. , Awe S. O. , Agbedahunsi J. M.
Published: October 2006

Khaya grandifoliola stem bark extract was tested for antimalarial action against Plasmodium berghei berghei in mice. The schizontocidal activity of the extract was assessed on early and established infections using chloroquine as a standard drug. The repository activity was also investigated and pyrimethamine was used as the standard. In the early infection test (like the chloroquine group), K. grandifoliola extract was effective in suppressing the malaria infection. However, on the established infection, the extract failed to effectively suppress the infection. The extract also demonstrated residual activity.
CNS depressant effects, anti‐inflammatory activity and anti‐cholinergic actions of Santolina chamaecyparissus extracts
Authors: Giner R. M. , Ríos J. L. , Villar A.
Published: October 2006

The pharmacological activity of several extracts together with the lyophilized infusion of S. chamaecyparissus ssp. squarrosa were investigated. The lethal dose 50% (LD50), effect on animal metabolism, mechanical and thermic analgesia and spontaneous, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐ulcer activity have been determined. Studies on isolated organs (rat duodenum and rat uterus) were also carried out. The hexanic and chloroformic extracts were potent antagonists of the thermic analgesia test; the former extract was also active in the mechanical analgesia test. The chloroformic extract and, to a lesser extent, the ethyl acetate extract and lyophilized infusion demonstrated noteworthy activity as anti‐inflammatory agents. No extract produced an ulcerogenic effect. The hexanic extract had the highest inhibitory effect on ACh induced contraction of rat duodenum and the ethyl acetate extract of oxytocin induced contraction of rat uterus.
Partial purification and some properties of an antibacterial compound from Aloe vera
Authors: Levin Hadassa , Hazenfratz R. , Friedman J. , Palevitch D. , Perl M.
Published: October 2006

Aqueous or ethanolic extracts of Aloe leaves were examined for antibacterial properties. The crude extrudes strongly stimulated bacterial growth. Separation of various fractions by thin layer chromatography (TLC) resulted in a fraction which inhibited the growth of Bacillus subtilis. A concomitant examination of protein and nucleic acid synthesis in B. subtilis in the presence of the inhibitory compound indicated that the plant extract inhibits primarily nucleic acid synthesis, after which protein synthesis is also inhibited. The inhibitor seemed to be present in all examined Aloe species but at different concentrations. On a dry weight basis, the inhibitory effect was equally distributed between the skin and the gel fraction.
The utility of P388 leukemia compared to B16 melanoma and colon carcinoma 38 for in vivo screening of plant extracts
Authors: Suffness Matthew , Abbott Betty , Statz Duwayne , Wonilowicz Edmund , Spjut Richard
Published: October 2006

We compared the value of using two in vivo solid tumor murine screening models, the B16 Melanoma and Colon 38 carcinoma, to the use of in vivo P388 leukemia in the detection of active extracts and in the prioritization of weak P388 active extracts. We found that, among a diverse group of 82 cytotoxc plant extracts negative in the P388 assay in vivo, only one had activity in B16 melanoma or Colon 38 and, among a group of 99 botanically diverse P388‐active extracts, none were active in either the B16 or Colon 38 models. We therefore conclude that the B16 and Colon 38 models in vivo are not useful for screening of crude extract and that, while the P388 leukemia may over‐predict useful leads due to its high sensitivity, its use as a first screen for crude extracts does not appear to result in missing solid tumor actives.
Evaluation of pharmacological activity of a crude hydroalcoholic extract from Jatropha elliptica
Authors: Trebien Herbert A. , Neves Paulo C. A. , Yunes Rosendo A. , Calixto João B.
Published: October 2006

The pharmacological effect of the hydroalcoholic extract of Jatropha elliptica was analysed in in vivo and in vitro models. When given orally in mice, the extract showed a low acute toxicity (LD50 5 g/kg). In a dose of 0.5 or 1 g/kg p.o. the extract did not interfere with diuresis in the rat, but was found to be effective in blocking rat paw oedema induced by carrageenan and partially, serotonin‐induced oedema. In the same dose, the extract failed to inhibit rat paw oedema induced by dextran and the increase of rat cutaneous vascular permeability caused by Bothrops Jararaca venom, dextran, histamine, PAF‐acether and serotonin. Pre‐incubation of the isolated rat uterus and guinea‐pig ileum with the extract (0.2–0.8 mg/mL), produced a concentration‐related and non‐competitive inhibition of contractions induced by acetylcholine and bradykinin. However, the extract was about 2‐fold more potent in inhibiting the contraction of both agonists in guinea‐pig ileum than in rat uterine muscle. In rat aorta, the extract (50–100 μg/mL) caused a concentration‐dependent inhibition of noradrenaline‐evoked contractions, being about 5‐fold more potent when compared to the IC50 values obtained in rat uterus.
Ulceroprotective activity of the flavonoids of Genista rumelica Vel
Authors: Rainova L. , Nakov N. , Bogdanova S. , Minkov E. , Staneva‐Stoytcheva D.
Published: October 2006

Ulceroprotective action of several flavonoid compounds isolated from Genista rumelica Vel. (total flavonoid mixture, luteoline‐7‐glycoside, genistine) was established on five models of gastric ulcer in rats, genistine being the most active. Comparison was made against several standard antiulcer durgs (Succus Liquiritiae, Caved S, Almagel). A combined drug Flavogastrol, containing total flavonoid mixture, Semmen Lini gel and antacid compounds, was prepared and demonstrated ulceroprotective activity and low toxicity.
Pharmacological evaluation of Verbesina encelioides
Authors: Jain Satish C. , Purohit M. , Sharma R.
Published: October 2006

Various fractions of Verbesina encelioides have demonstrated significant antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antitumor, hypoglycaemic and anti‐implantation activities.
Hypotensive activity of Thymus orospedanus alcoholic extract
Authors: Jimenez J. , Zarzuelo A. , Crespo M. E.
Published: October 2006

The hypotensive effects of the alcoholic extract of Thymus orospedanus were investigated in both in vivo and in vitro assays. Our results indicate that the extract reduced rat blood pressure and modified the dose–response curve to epinephrine in the rat vas deferens and the rabbit artery, indicative of a competitive antagonism.
Antipyretic and analgesic studies of the ethanalic extract of Teclea nobilis delile
Authors: Mascolo Nicola , Pinto Aldo , Capasso Francesco , Yenesew Abiy , Dagne Ermias
Published: October 2006

The crude ethanol extract of the leaves of an African medicinal plant Teclea nobilis has been studied for its antipyretic, analgesic and anti‐inflammatory activities. The extract exhibited marked antipyretic and analgesic activities while it was found to be weakly active against carrageenin oedema.
Studies on the constituents of dwarf ginseng
Authors: Lee Taikwang M. , Der Marderosian Ara H.
Published: October 2006

Phytochemical study of the leaves of Panax trifolius L. resulted in the isolation of two flavonoids and four ginsenosides. The two flavonoids were found to be kaempferol‐3,7‐dirhamnoside and kaempferol‐3‐gluco‐7‐rhamnoside. The four ginsenosides were identified as ginsenoside —Rd, —Rc, —Rb3 and notoginsenoside‐Fe. The common aglycones of these flavonoids and ginsenosides were shown to be kaempferol and (20S)‐protopanaxadiol, respectively.
Inflammatory effects of acute and chronic capsaicin treatment on rat paw
Authors: De Amit Krishna , Ghosh Jagat Jiban
Published: October 2006

Capsaicin extracted from natural sources (Capsicum frutescens) and standard capsaicin (Sigma Chemicals) were used in this study. On acute treatment capsaicin produced a dose‐related inflammatory response in rat paw as measured by the volume displacement method. This response was found to be synergestic when injected with carrageenan. Preliminary experiments showed that pretreatment with diphenhydramine‐HCl produced a significant inhibition of this acute capsaicin induced paw oedema, whereas indomethacin and methysergide were ineffective in blocking paw oedema. On the other hand, chronically capsaicin treated rats (for 10 days) showed a significant inhibition of paw oedema when treated with either carregeenan or a single high dose of capsaicin. Both the extracted and the standard capsaicin showed a similar type of response in all experiments.
Glaucium flavum Crantz. part v: Hypoglycemic activity of the aqueous extract
Authors: Cabo J. , Cabo P. , Jimenez J. , Zarzuelo A.
Published: October 2006

The hypoglycemic activity of various root, stem, leaf and fruit preparations of Glaucium flavum Crantz, was studied in normoglycemic experimental animals. Having found that the leaf decoction was the most potent preparation, its hypoglycemic activity was further studied in hyperglycemic and alloxan‐diabetic animals. Although the leaf decoction was an effective agonist in glucose‐induced hyperglycemia, it was almost inactive in alloxan‐induced diabetes.
In vivo hypotensive activity of Pistacia lentiscus L
Authors: Sanz M. J. , Terencio M. C. , Paya M.
Published: October 2006

The present studies were undertaken to explain the mechanism of action of the hypothesive effect of Pistacia lentiscus L. aqueous extract. The potassium, calcium and magnesium content of the aqueous extract was determined and synthetic mixtures of salts evaluated in rats. The urinary excretion volume and the sodium and potassium concentrations in urine were also determined. In an effort to explain the effects of the extract, in vivo pharmacological experiments were conducted.
Preliminary in vitro studies on the antagonistic effects of an ethanolic extract from Diodia scandens on Echis carinatus venom‐induced changes in the clotting of human blood
Authors: Onuaguluchi G. , Okeke P. C.
Published: October 2006

The water soluble fraction of an ethanolic extract from Diodia scandens was found to have no effect on the in vitro clotting time of normal human blood. However, it increased to 2.8 min the in vitro blood clotting time previously reduced from 4.7 min to 1.8 min following treatment with Echis carinatus venom. The plant extract was shown to possess definite anti‐thromboplastin activity against brain thromboplastin and venom thromboplastin activity. The extract did not significantly inhibit the thrombin‐like activity of the venom. It is suggested that the antagonistic effect of the extract on venom‐induced coagulation is due to inhibition of thromboplastin/Factor VII activation of Factor X.
Mechanisms of hypoglycemic activity of panaxans A and B, glycans of Panax ginseng roots: Effects on the key enzymes of glucose metabolism in the liver of mice
Authors: Suzuki Yutaka , Hikino Hiroshi
Published: October 2006

Panaxan A did not affect the activities of hepatic glucokinase and hexokinase but decreased glucose‐6‐phosphatase activity. Although panaxan B did not influence the activities of these enzymes, it showed a tendency to reduce hepatic glycogen synthetase activity, and panaxans A and B elevated the phosphorylase activity. Panaxan B lowered the glycogen content in the liver. Panaxans A and B significantly increased the activities of glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase and phosphofructokinase in the liver.
The antiinflammatory activity of the fractions from Eryngium billardieri in mice
Authors: Yesilada Erdem , Tanaka Shigeo , Tabata Mamoru , Sezik Ekrem
Published: October 2006

Eryngium billardieri Delar., used as a folk medicine in Turkey for the treatment of inflammatory diseases, was investigated for its antiinflammatory activity by various methods. Fractions obtained from the aerial parts and roots of E. billardieri were tested in mice for their effects on increased vascular permeability induced by acetic acid intraperitoneally, and serotonin, bradykinin, and carrageenan‐induced edemas. A significant antiinflammatory activity was observed only in the precipitated part of the butanol extract of the roots, which contains saponins.
Effects of Thymus species extracts on rat duodenum isolated smooth muscle contraction
Authors: Blázquez M. A. , Zafra‐Polo M. C. , Villar A.
Published: October 2006

The diethylether, ethylacetate and butanolic extracts from Thymus webbianus and Thymus leptophyllus were tested for spasmolytic activity. Pre‐incubation of the isolated rat duodenum with these extracts for 10 min produced a concentration‐dependent inhibition of acetylcholine‐induced contractions. This effect was at least ten times greater with the apolar extracts than with the polar extracts.
Prevention of liver damage by aged garlic extract and its components in mice
Authors: Nakagawat Shizutoshi , Kasuga Shigeo , Matsuura Hiromichi
Published: October 2006

The hepato‐protective effects of aged garlic extract (GE), S‐allyl cysteine (SAC) and S‐allylmercapto cysteine (SAMC) were evaluated, using mice with acute hepatitis, induced by hepatotoxins. These substances reduced the rise of serum enzyme levels and liver necrosis caused by paracetamol or carbon tetrachloride. It was found that the protective effect of SAMC upon the liver cells were far superior than that of SAC and the other chemicals tested.
The effect of alismol isolated from alismatis rhizoma on experimental hypertensive models in rats
Authors: Yamahara Johji , Kobayashi Goro , Iwamoto Masatsugu , Matsuda Hisashi , Fujimura Hajime
Published: October 2006

The antihypertensive action of alismol, a sesquiterpenoid isolated from Alismatis Rhizoma, the rhizome of Alisma orientale Juzepczuk (Alismataceae), was examined in various experimental hypertensive models in rats and the effect of alismol on the activation of plasma renin, angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) and the level of aldosterone were examined in 2‐kidney, 1‐clip hypertensive model. Alismol caused a sustained, though weak, antihypertensive action in all the experimental models, but did not significantly affect the plasma renin activity, ACE activity and the level of aldosterone.
Effect of alismol isolated from Alismatis Rhizoma on working heart perfusion in rat
Authors: Yamahara Johji , Matsuda Hisashi , Kobayashi Goro , Katayama Taiichi , Fujimura Hajime
Published: October 2006

The effect of alismol (Oshima et al., 1983), a sesquiterpenoid isolated from Alismatis Rhizoma which is used as a Chinese crude drug, was studied on rat isolated heart using the working heart perfusion technique. Alismol decreased cardiac output, heart rate and left ventricular pressure, but it increased coronary flow. The drug has been used for the prevention of anginal attacks and our results provide a pharmacological basis for one of the traditional medicinal effects of Alismatis Rhizoma.
Antiinflammatory effects of the fruit juice of Ecballium elaterium on edemas in mice
Authors: Yesilada Erdem , Tanaka Shigeo , Tabata Mamoru , Sezik Ekrem
Published: October 2006

The anti‐inflammatory activities of the fruit juice of Ecballium elaterium (Cucurbitaceae) and its triterpenoid constituent, cucurbitacin B, were tested in mice against serotonin‐ and bradykinin‐induced edemas. Both showed a dose‐dependent and significant inhibition of edema. Cucurbitacin B content of fruit juice was determined to 2.48% by HPLC.
Effect of Desmodium adscendens fraction F1 (DAF1) on tone and agonist‐induced contractions of guinea pig airway smooth muscle
Authors: Addy Marian E. , Burka John F.
Published: October 2006

Cumulative concentration‐response curves (CCRC) of histamine, carbachol and leukotriene D, (LTD4), and relaxation curves were used to evaluate the nature of the modulation of allergic airway smooth muscle contraction of Desmodium adrcendens fraction F1 (DAF1). DAM significantly increased the maximal contractions (Emax) of tracheal spirals for all three agonists, and significantly increased the pD, values for histamine and carbachol, but decreased that for LTD4. On lung parenchymal strips DAM had no significant effect on the shape of the CCRC, the pD, value or Emax for histamine and carbachol. A significant decrease in the pD, value for LTD4, was observed at DAM concentrations of 0.3 and 0.9mg/mL. At the higher concentration, the decrease was accompanied by an equally significant decrease in the Emax. DAF1 per se, caused relaxation of tracheal spirals. The results indicate that DAF1's effect includes a reduction in sensitivity and responsiveness to LTD4‐induced contractions.
Prophylactic aromatherapy for supervening infections in patients with chronic bronchitis. Statistical evaluation conducted in clinics against a placebo
Authors: Ferley J. P. , Poutignat N. , Zmirou D. , Azzopardi Y. , Balducci F.
Published: October 2006

A controlled clinical trial was conducted during the winter 1985–1986 with 182 patients with chronic bronchitis living in institutions to evaluate the effectiveness of ‘Gouttes aux Essences’ (Essence Drops), a well known mixture in aromatherapy to prevent supervening bronchial infections. Although the overall number of supervening infections and their characteristics were not modified by the treatment, the frequency of relapse at least appears to have been significantly lowered in the group receiving treatment compared to the group receiving placebo.
Millettia thonningii molluscicide: A rapid knockdown cercaricide for schistosome cercariae
Authors: Squire Barbara J. , Whitfield Philip J.
Published: October 2006

Suspensions of ground seed material from the West African legume, Millettia thonningii, have previously been shown to be molluscicidal to schistosome‐transmitting snails and thus potentially useful as a control agent for schistosomiasis. It is demonstrated here that Millettia seed suspensions, in addition to their molluscicidal action, show considerable toxicity towards the infective cercarial stage of Schistosoma mansoni, a causative agent of human intestinal schistosomiasis. This toxicity consists of a rapid knockdown effect on the cercariae, producing unresponsive immobility in times from 11 to 42 min in a concentration range from 500 to 100 parts per million. Filtering reduced the speed of this effect. Cercaricidal activity of the suspensions is also demonstrated in a range of unfiltered suspension concentrations, with 100% mortality occurring from 120 to 310 min after exposure. This potent action will add to the potential effectiveness of a Millettia molluscicide preparation when used as a control agent for schistosomiasis.
A review of some antimicrobial compounds isolated from medicinal plants reported in the literature 1978–1988
Authors: Redo M. C. , Rios J. L. , Villar A.
Published: October 2006

This paper reviews the literature on recent antimicrobial plant products (1978–1988) and medicinal plants used for the treatment of infectious diseases. The review includes accounts of extracts, essential oils and other active principles isolated from plants that have been used in folk medicine as antimicrobial agents. The name and part of the plants studied, the spectrum of activity, type of active compounds and methods used are discussed, as are their mechanisms of action.
Effect of tormentic acid on insulin secretion in isolated rat islets of langerhans
Authors: Ivorra M. D. , Paya M. , Villar A.
Published: October 2006

Tonnentic acid was isolated as the hypoglycemic agent of Poterium ancistroides Desf. The present study reports effects of this compound on isolated islets of Langerhans. We demonstrate that tormentic acid in the presence of 1.66 mM glucose initiates insulin secretion by isolated rat islets of Langerhans in a dose‐dependent fashion at concentrations ranging from 0.05 to 0.5 mM. However, the compound has no effect on the insulin‐releasing capacity of 16.6 mM glucose. Similar results were obtained with the sulfonylurea glibenclamide (0.01 mM) used as a reference. These results suggest that the hypoglycemic effect of tormentic acid is due to a diect effect of the compound in vitro.
Anti‐inflammatory activity of Orbignia phalerata in rats
Authors: Maia M. B. S. , Rao V. S.
Published: October 2006

The chloroformic extract of the dried fruits of Orbignia phalerata exhibited potent anti‐inflammatory properties as shown by the inhibition of carrageenannduced acute inflammation, cotton pellet granuloma and formalin‐induced arthritis in rats. It did not show any CNS sedative, narcotic or antipyretic effects. A mild analgesic effect which may be of peripheral origin was noticed in the acetic‐induced writhing test in mice. The extract, unlike phenylbutazone, neither influenced leucocyte migration into carrageenan‐impregnated polyester‐sponges nor enhanced the bleeding time in the mesenteric vein micropuncture study. It did not provoke gastric lesions on continuous medication for a consecutive period of 21 days in rats. These results provide a scientific validation of its traditional use in arthritic conditions, and suggest that the drug may be a useful alternative to anti‐inflammatory drugs presently available with a different spectrum of activity.
Screening of some Somalian medicinal plants for antidiarrhoeal effects in mice
Authors: Claeson Per , Samuelsson Gunnar
Published: October 2006

Aqueous extracts of 10 plants, used in Somalian traditional medicine for treatment of diarrhoeal diseases, have been screened for effects against cholera toxin‐induced intestinal hypersecretion in mice. Two extracts inhibited the hypersecretion more than 50% (compared to a control group, receiving saline). For two extracts the effect did not differ significantly from the controls. The rest of the extracts showed inhibiting activities ranging from 25% to 43%.
Isolation and identification of an antiinflammatory principle from santolina chamaecyparissus
Authors: Ríos J. L. , Giner R. M. , Villar A.
Published: October 2006

The chloroform extract from Santolina chamaecyparissus squarrosa exhibited a potent anti‐inflammatory effect on carrageenan‐induced oedema in the rat hind paw. β‐Sytosteryl 3‐β‐D‐glucoside, isolated by fractionating this extract, was anti‐inflammatory in the above test, with intraperitoneal and oral ED50 values of 70 and 146 mg/kg, respectively.
Antimalarial activity of Tiliacora triandra diels against Plasmodium falciparum in vitro
Authors: Pavanand Katchrinnee , Webster H. Kyle , Yongvanitchit Kosol , Dechatiwongse Thaweephol
Published: October 2006

Preparations from the roots of the Thai medicinal plant, Tiliacora triandra Diels, were found to have antimalarial activity against Plasmodium fakiparum in vitro. Methanol extraction yielded two alkaloidal components (water‐soluble and water‐insoluble). Only the water‐insoluble alkaloidal component showed an increase in antimalarial activity. From this component, five different alkaloids of the bisbenzyl‐isoquinoline group were isolated and identified as tiliacorine, tiliacorinine, nor‐tiliacorinine A, and two uncharacterized alkaloids G and H. Alkaloid G was found to be the most active in vitro schizontocide (ID50, 344 ng/mL) followed by nor‐tiliacorinine A and tiliacorine (ID50, 558 and 675 ng/mL, respectively).
Antispasmodic activity on rat smooth muscle of polyphenol compounds caffeic and protocathechic acids
Authors: Ortiz Urbina J. J. De , Martin M. L. , Sevilla M. A. , Montero M. J. , Carron R. , Roman L. San
Published: October 2006

Caffeic and protocatechic acids demonstrated a non‐specific antispasmodic action on smooth muscle in several isolated organs of the rat. This action appeared to be related to calcium concentration. At certain doses, the test compounds enhanced the noradrenergic response in a manner similar to that of cocaine.
Antimicrobial activity of essential oils of Brazilian plants
Authors: Lemos T. L. G. , Matos F. J. A. , Alencar J. W. , Craveiro A. A. , Clark A. M. , McChesney J. D.
Published: October 2006

Among ten essential oils submitted to antimicrobial evaluation, the oil from Lippia sidoides exhibited the highest and broadest activity against fungi and bacteria. Lippia oil was active against all test bacteria, including moderate activity against the Gram‐negative bacteria Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli, and all test fungi, including yeasts, a dermatophyte, and filamentous fungi.
Wogonin, 5,7‐dihydroxy‐8‐methoxyflavone as oestrogenic and anti‐implantational agent in the rat
Authors: Singh Pahup , Jain Sunita , Bhala Manju , Goyal Ravi Bala , Jayaprakash D. , Lohiya Nirmal K.
Published: October 2006

Wogonin, 5,7‐dihydroxy‐8‐methoxyflavone, extracted from Holmskioldia sanguinea Retz. has been tested for oestrogenic and anti‐implantational activities in the rat. Wogonin displayed mild oestrogenic but effective anti‐implantational activities. In the three days uterotrophic bioassay, at a dose level of 10 mg/kg body weight per day, intramuscularly, the wet uterine and vaginal weights increased significantly. Wogonin at the same dose level when given intramuscularly from days 1–3, 4–6, 1–7 post coitum and orally from days 1–7 post coitum effectively inhibited implantation. However, when the drug was administered from days 7–9 post coitum, it did not affect the implantation, but interfered with normal development of the embryos which resulted in the resorption of foetuses. Wogonin, a mild oestrogenic compound, exhibited interceptory activity at all the stages of pregnancy.
Eugenol a valuable compound for in vitro experimental research and worthwhile for further in vivo investigation
Authors: Laekeman G. M. , van Hoof L. , Haemers A. , Berghe D. A. Vanden , Herman A. G. , Vlietinck A. J.
Published: October 2006

Eugenol and isoeugenol are responsible for several pharmacological activities exhibited by nutmeg preparations. We studied their antimicrobial and antiaggregation activity in vitro and their influence on platelet function ex vivo. At the same time biogenetically or metabolically related derivatives were tested. Eugenol and isoeugenol (1 mg/mL) showed pronounced antibacterial properties: growth inhibition of 6 out of 10 Gram + and Gram – microorganisms was comparable with neomycin (500 μg/mL). Growth inhibition was even more pronounced for Candida species in comparison with nystatin (5000 U/mL). Eugenol and some of its analogues inhibited growth of Aspergillus and Trichophyton species at concentrations of 100 μg/mL. However, cytotoxicity of the compounds will limit their systemical use. The IC50, of eugenol (3.0 × 10−7 M) and isoeugenol (7.2 × 10−7 M), were comparable with indomethacin (2.2 × 10−7 M) on platelet aggregation. Their free hydroxy group was necessary for pharmacological activity. Ex vivo results revealed a dose‐dependent blocking effect on the thromboxane biosynthesis by rat blood platelets: 66% inhibition by 50 mg/kg to 96% inhibition by 400 mg/kg. Eugenol and acetyleugenol given orally to rabbits had mean biological half‐lives of 95 and 60 min respectively. Eugenol might be an interesting basic structure for drug design.
Determination of photoanethole from a stored essential oil of anise fruits as 4,4′‐dimethoxystilbene by high performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet coupling
Authors: Miething Holger , Seger Volkmar , Hänsel Rudolf
Published: October 2006

The identification in made of the so‐called photoanethole from a stored essential oil of anise fruits as 4,4′‐dimethoxystilbene using high performance liquid chromatography with photodiode‐array detection.
Seasonal variation of hypolaetin 8‐glucoside in Sideritis mugronensis borja
Authors: Máñez Salvador , Jiménez Adela , Villar Angel
Published: October 2006

A quantitative analysis of the antiinflammatory flavonoid hypolaetin 8‐glucoside from Sideritis mugronensis during an annual growth cycle was carried out. After an irregular increase in spring, the maximum levels were reached and maintained in early summer samples.
Study of antihepatotoxicity of Eupatorium cannabinum L. in mice. An adequate method of screening in vivo antihepatotoxic natural principles
Authors: Lexa A. , Fleurentin J. , Younos C. , Mortiert F.
Published: October 2006

An adequate model to test in vivo antihepatotoxic properties of aqueous extract of E. cannabinum and, in extension, of other natural compounds, is presented using mice. The aqueous extract was administered before and after CCI4 intoxication: it decreased the ALAT plasmatic level in pretreatment but it is not efficient in post‐treatment. Eupatoriopicrin, the major sesquiterpenic lactone of the plant was not antihepatoxic at the dose contained in the extract.
Antifilarial activity of Argyria speciosa against Setaria cervi in vitro
Authors: Parveen Nazneen , Khan Nizam U. , Singhal K. C.
Published: October 2006

The effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of Argyria speciosa on the spontaneous movements of both the whole worm and a nerve/muscle preparation of Setaria cervi, and on the survival of microfilariae in vitro, was studied. Both extracts caused the inhibition of spontaneous movements of the whole worm and the nerve/muscle preparation of S. cervi, characterized by decrease in tone, amplitude and rate of contractions. The concentration required to inhibit the movements of the whole worm preparation was 150 μg/mL for the aqueous, and 75 μg/mL for the alcoholic extract. The concentration of A. speciosa extract required to produce an equivalent effect on the nerve/muscle preparation was 25 μg/mL for aqueous, and 50 ng/mL for the alcoholic extract.
Hypoglycemic effect of Opuntia ficus indica in non insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus patients
Authors: Frati Alberto C. , Jiménez Ernesto , Ariza C. Raúl
Published: October 2006

To assess whether Opuntia ficus indica stems, or their crude preparations have hypoglycemic effects, 8 patients with non insulin‐dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) were studied. Four different tests were carried out on each patient following the oral intake of 500 g of O. ficus indica. These were either: entire broiled; blended broiled; blended crude or blended crude and heated at 60°C. A control test was performed in each patient as well. Serum glucose levels were measured at 0, 30, 60, 120 and 180 min. Glycemia decreased in all the patients following ingestion of O. ficus indica, and reached statistically significant levels after 120 and 180 min (p < 0.01). The major hypoglycemic effect shown after O. ficus indica administration ranged from 23.3 ± 4.4 to 25.4 ± 14.3 mg/dL (mean ± SD) below the glucose levels at 0 min. No statistical differences in the hypoglycemic effects were observed between the Opuntia ficus indica preparations. Opuntia ficus indica exerts hypoglycemic effects in NIDDM patients independent of its heating or blending during preparation.
In vitro and in vivo studies on capsaicin and membrane bound calcium interactions in the rat lung using chlorotetracycline (CTC) as a fluorescence probe
Authors: De Amit Krishna , Ghosh Jagat Jiban
Published: October 2006

Chlorotetracycline calcium fluorescence studies have been carried out on acute and chronic capsaicin treated rat lung mitochondria and microsome membrane fractions in the presence of different concentrations of capsaicin (1–100 nM) under in vivo conditions. Results indicate, that acute capsaicin treated rat lung membrane fractions are quite different from those that are chronically treated, with respect to capsaicin mediated calcium permeability, measured in terms of calcium induced CTC fluorescence alterations. It seems that the reported ‘activation’ phenomena of acute capsaicin treatment may be associated with calcium influx across the membrane. On the other hand, the reported ‘desensitization’ phenomena of chronic capsaicin treatment may be due to inhibition of capsaicin mediated calcium influx.
Comparative antiarrhythmic and anti‐ischaemic activity of some flavones in the guinea‐pig and rat
Authors: Occhiuto F. , Busa G. , Ragusa S. , de Pasquale A.
Published: October 2006

A comparative study of 16 flavones was carried out using 4 experimental models: 1, hyperkinetic ventricular arrhythmias induced by reperfusion in rat isolated heart; 2, arrhythmias following coronary artery ligation‐reperfusion in anaesthetized guinea‐pig; 3, pytressine arrhythmias by coronary spasm in anaesthetized guinea‐pig; and 4, anti‐ischaemic activity using an ex vivo perfusion heart technique after coronary occlusion in guinea‐pig. The structure effect relationships of flavone, 3‐hydroxyflavone, 6‐hydroxyflavone, 7‐hydroxyflavone, 6,7‐dihydroxyflavone, 7,8‐dihydroxyflavone, apigenin, apiin, diosmin, 5‐hydroxyflavone, luteolin, luteolin glycoside, orientin, pratol, rhoifolin, vitexin, tested as antiarrhythmic and anti‐ischaemic agents were compared to lidocaine and verapamil at equimolar doses. The results obtained demonstrated that most of these compounds exerted a protective effect against coronary‐spasm and coronary‐ligation induced ischaemic crisis, and against the ischaemic and the post‐ischaemic arrhythmias. The potencies were found to be structurally dependent for the flavones tested.
Withania somnifera extract. Its effect on arterial blood pressure in anaesthetized dogs
Authors: Ahumada F. , Aspee F. , Wikman G. , Hancke J.
Published: October 2006

The effect of Withania somnifera extract on arterial blood pressure in ‘normotensive’ pentobarbital anaesthetized dogs was studied. Also a possible effect of Withania somnifera on blood pressure in dogs administered either with adrenaline and acetylcholine was investigated. Thirty mongrel dogs of both sexes were distributed randomly in three series of ten animals each. Each animal was adminstered at intervals of 4 min with either a neurotransmitter, saline or the extract until a cycle of 32 minutes was completed. It is concluded that the Withania somnifera extract induced a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the arterial and diastolic blood pressure in ‘normotensive’ pentobarbital anaesthetized dogs. Withania also significantly prevented the hypotensive effect of acetyltholine and increased the hypertensive effect of adrenaline.
Inhibitory effects of the sesquiterpene T‐cadinol on contractile responses in the isolated guinea‐pig ileum
Authors: Zygmunt Peter , Claeson Per
Published: October 2006

The smooth muscle relaxing effect of the sesquiterpene T‐cadinol, isolated from scented myrrh (resin of Commiphora guidottii Chiov., Burseraceae), was investigated. The compound inhibited the contractile responses in the isolated guinea‐pig ileum to histamine, carbachol, Ba2+ and K+ in a concentration dependent and reversible manner. The antagonism of the receptor‐mediated contractions induced by histamine and carbachol was not of a competitive type. The contractions induced by Ba2+‐ and K+ were somewhat more sensitive to the action of T‐cadinol than the receptor mediated contractions. It is suggested that the compound may interfere with a step of the contraction sequence common to all four spasmogens.
Antimicrobial effects of Allium sativum L. (garlic), Allium ampeloprasum L. (elephant garlic), and Allium cepa L. (onion), garlic compounds and commercial garlic supplement products
Authors: Hughes Bronwyn G. , Lawson Larry D.
Published: October 2006

Diallyl thiosulphinate (allicin), methyl allyl thiosulphinate, and allyl methyl thiosulphinate found in aqueous garlic clove and powder homogenates showed in vitro antibacterial and antifungal activities while garlic polar compounds, including alliin, did not. E/Z‐ajoene, a minor but water‐soluble transformation product of allicin found in vegetable oil‐macerates of garlic, demonstrated anticandidal activity. Garlic showed greater antibacterial and antifungal activities than a number of onion types. Garlic and elephant garlic clove homogenates demonstrated similar activity. The anticandidal activities of commercially available garlic supplement products corresponded in general to the activities known for the chemical compounds found in the products.