bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of formoterol and salmeterol on cytokine release from monocyte-derived macrophages
Authors: Donnelly L.E. , Tudhope S.J. , Fenwick P.S. , Barnes P.J. 
Published: November 2009

Pulmonary macrophages are a target for inhaled therapies. Combinations of long-acting β2-agonists (LABA) and glucocorticosteroids have been developed for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study examined two LABA, salmeterol and formoterol, and the glucocorticosteroid, budesonide, on cytokine release from monocyte-derived macrophages (MDM) to determine whether anti-inflammatory effects observed in patients are due to inhibition of macrophages.MDM were incubated in the absence or presence of LABA or budesonide prior to stimulation with lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, granulocyte macrophage-colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and CXC chemokine ligand (CXCL)8 were measured by ELISA.Formoterol and salmeterol inhibited LPS-stimulated release of TNF-α (mean effective concentration (EC50) 2.4±1.8 and 3.5±2.7 nM, respectively; n = 11–16), GM-CSF (EC5024.6±2.1 and 52.4±40.8 nM, respectively, n = 11–12) but not CXCL8 from LPS-stimulated MDM. Budesonide inhibited release of all three cytokines (EC50TNF-α: 1.2±0.4 nM; GM-CSF: 0.4±0.2 nM; CXCL8: 0.4±0.1 nM; n = 3–4). Formoterol but not salmeterol elevated cAMP in these cells. These effects were attenuated by β-adrenoceptor antagonists, propranolol and ICI118551. Salmeterol (10−7M) also inhibited formoterol-induced cAMP and formoterol-mediated attenuation of cytokine release. Combining budesonide (0.3 nM) with formoterol, inhibited TNF-α release additively.LABA may inhibit inflammatory cytokine release from macrophages in a cAMP-independent manner and act additively with budesonide.
Topical recombinant thrombin at a concentration of 1000 IU/mL reliably shortens in vivo TTH and delivers durable hemostasis in the presence of heparin anticoagulation and clopidogrel platelet inhibition in a rabbit model of vascular bleeding
Authors: Hughes Steven D , Bishop Paul D , Garcia Richard , Zhang Tracy , Alexander W Allan 
Published: November 2009

AbstractBackgroundThis study was designed to evaluate the effect of recombinant human thrombin (rThrombin) concentration on time to hemostasis (TTH), clot durability, and clot strength in settings that replicate the heparinization and platelet inhibition often found in surgical populations.MethodsA modified, anticoagulated rabbit arteriovenous shunt preparation was selected to model vascular anastomotic bleeding. Rabbits were treated with heparin or heparin + clopidogrel and TTH was measured after applying a range of topical rThrombin concentrations or placebo, in combination with absorbable gelatin sponge, USP. Treatments (placebo, rThrombin) were randomly assigned and the investigator was blinded to treatment. TTH was evaluated with the Kaplan-Meier method. After hemostasis was achieved, clot burst assessment was performed for heparin + clopidogrel treated animals. Clot viscoelastic strength and kinetics were measured in ex-vivo samples using thromboelastography (TEG) methods.ResultsTTH decreased with increasing concentrations of rThrombin in heparin-treated animals and was shorter after treatment with 1000 IU/mL rThrombin (73 seconds) than with 125 IU/mL rThrombin (78 seconds; p = 0.007). TTH also decreased with increasing concentrations of rThrombin in heparin + clopidogrel treated animals; again it was significantly shorter after treatment with 1000 IU/mL rThrombin (71 seconds) than with 125 IU/mL rThrombin (177 seconds; p < 0.001). Variability in TTH was significantly smaller after treatment with 1000 IU/mL rThrombin than after 125 IU/mL rThrombin, indicating greater reliability of clot formation (p < 0.001 for heparin or heparin + clopidogrel treatments). Clot durability was examined in heparin + clopidogrel treated animals. Clots formed in the presence of 1000 IU/mL rThrombin were significantly less likely to rupture during clot burst assessment than those formed in the presence of 125 IU/mL rThrombin (0% versus 79%, p < 0.001). In vitro clot strength and clot kinetics, as determined by TEG in heparin + clopidogrel samples, were positively associated with the amount of rThrombin activity added for clot initiation.ConclusionIn an animal model designed to replicate the anti-coagulation regimens encountered in clinical settings, topical rThrombin at 1000 IU/mL more reliably controlled the pharmacological effects of heparin or heparin + clopidogrel on hemostasis than rThrombin at 125 IU/mL. Results from in vitro assessments confirmed a positive relationship between the amount of rThrombin activity and both the rate of clot formation and clot strength.
CBP/p300 is a cell type-specific modulator of CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription
Authors: Hosoda Hiroshi , kato Kenichi , Asano Hidenori , Ito Motonori , Kato Haruno , Iwamoto Taku , Suzuki Akinobu , Masushige Shoichi , Kida Satoshi 
Published: November 2009

Abstract

Background
Previous studies have demonstrated tissue-specific regulation of the rhythm of circadian transcription, suggesting that transcription factor complex CLOCK/BMAL1, essential for maintaining circadian rhythm, regulates transcription in a tissue-specific manner. To further elucidate the mechanism of the cell type-specific regulation of transcription by CLOCK/BMAL1 at the molecular level, we investigated roles of CBP/p300 and tissue-specific cofactors in CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription.

Results
As shown previously, CBP/p300 stimulates CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription in COS-1 cells. However, CBP/p300 repressed CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription in NIH3T3 cells and knockdown of CBP or p300 expression by siRNA enhanced this transcription. Studies using GAL4-fusion proteins suggested that CBP represses CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription by targeting CLOCK. We further investigated mechanisms of this cell type-specific modulation of CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription by CBP by examining roles of co-repressor HDAC3 and co-activator pCAF, which are highly expressed in NIH3T3 and COS cells, respectively. CBP repressed CLOCK/BMAL1-mediated transcription in COS-1 cells when HDAC3 was overexpressed, but activated it in NIH3T3 cells when pCAF was overexpressed. CBP forms a complex with CLOCK by interacting with HDAC3 or pCAF; however, direct interaction of CBP with CLOCK was not observed.

Conclusion
Our findings indicate possible mechanisms by which CBP/p300 tissue-specifically acts cooperatively with pCAF and HDAC3 either as a co-activator or co-repressor, respectively, for CLOCK/BMAL1.
Abnormalities in brain structure and behavior in GSK-3alpha mutant mice
Authors: Kaidanovich-Beilin Oksana , Lipina Tatiana V , Takao Keizo , van Eede Matthijs , Hattori Satoko , Laliberté Christine , Khan Mustafa , Okamoto Kenichi , Chambers John W , Fletcher Paul J , MacAulay Katrina , Doble Bradley W , Henkelman Mark , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi , Roder John , Woodgett James R 
Published: November 2009

AbstractBackgroundGlycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) is a widely expressed and highly conserved serine/threonine protein kinase encoded by two genes that generate two related proteins: GSK-3α and GSK-3β. Mice lacking a functional GSK-3α gene were engineered in our laboratory; they are viable and display insulin sensitivity. In this study, we have characterized brain functions of GSK-3α KO mice by using a well-established battery of behavioral tests together with neurochemical and neuroanatomical analysis.ResultsSimilar to the previously described behaviours of GSK-3β+/-mice, GSK-3α mutants display decreased exploratory activity, decreased immobility time and reduced aggressive behavior. However, genetic inactivation of the GSK-3α gene was associated with: decreased locomotion and impaired motor coordination, increased grooming activity, loss of social motivation and novelty; enhanced sensorimotor gating and impaired associated memory and coordination. GSK-3α KO mice exhibited a deficit in fear conditioning, however memory formation as assessed by a passive avoidance test was normal, suggesting that the animals are sensitized for active avoidance of a highly aversive stimulus in the fear-conditioning paradigm. Changes in cerebellar structure and function were observed in mutant mice along with a significant decrease of the number and size of Purkinje cells.ConclusionTaken together, these data support a role for the GSK-3α gene in CNS functioning and possible involvement in the development of psychiatric disorders.
The modified two-by-one fixed orthodontic appliance for bodily movement of canine: a case report
Authors: Tsui Vicky WK , Alkhal Hessa A , Hou Huie M , Wong Ricky WK , Rabie A Bakr M 
Published: November 2009

Abstract

Background
Orthodontic management of an ectopically erupted canine requires substantial amount of bodily movement which is difficult to perform and often results in root resorption.

Case presentation
A 9 year old girl presented with Class I malocclusion with crowding and ectopically positioned upper left canine (23). Treatment involved extraction of all first premolars. The alignment of the upper left canine was achieved by the modified 2 by 1 appliance.

Conclusion
The design of this modified 2 by 1 appliance allows individualized bodily tooth movement of canine, it provides light and continuous force for physiological orthodontic movement with minimal root resorption.
The antioxidant properties of carnitine in vitro
Authors: Solarska Katarzyna , Lewińska Anna , Karowicz-Bilińska Agata , Bartosz Grzegorz 
Published: November 2009

AbstractMany of the effects of carnitine are ascribed to its antioxidant properties. The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant properties of carnitine in vitro. Carnitine was found to decolorize ABTS•+, and to protect fluorescein against bleaching induced by AAPH-derived peroxyl radicals and peroxynitrite, thiol groups against oxidation induced by hydrogen peroxide, peroxyl radicals, hypochlorite and peroxynitrite, and erythrocytes against hemolysis induced by peroxyl radicals and hypochlorite. These results show that carnitine has a direct antioxidant action against physiologically relevant oxidants.
The interaction of PVP complexes of gossypol and its derivatives with an artificial membrane lipid matrix
Authors: Ionov Maksim , Tukfatullina Ilnora , Salakhutdinov Bakhtiyar , Baram Nina , Bryszewska Maria , Aripov Takhir 
Published: November 2009

AbstractIn this paper, we present the results of a study on the membrane-active properties of gossypol, its derivatives and their polyvinylpyrrolidone complexes as assessed by differential scanning calorimetry and by the fluorescent probe method. The latter revealed the change in polarization of the incident radiation caused by the action of the polyphenol on the artificial membrane lipid matrix.
Novice and Experienced Physical Therapist Clinicians: A Comparison of How Reflection Is Used to Inform the Clinical Decision-Making Process
Authors: Wainwright Susan Flannery , Shepard Katherine F. , Harman Laurinda B. , Stephens James 
Published: November 2009

Background
Prior experience informs clinical decision making and shapes how reflection is used by novice and experienced physical therapist clinicians.

Objectives
The aims of this research were: (1) to determine the types and extent of reflection that informs the clinical decision-making process and (2) to compare the use of reflection to direct and assess clinical decisions made by novice and experienced physical therapists.

Design
Qualitative research methods using grounded theory were used to gain insight into how physical therapists use reflection to inform clinical decision making.

Methods
Three participant pairs (each pair consisting of one novice and one experienced physical therapist) were purposively selected from 3 inpatient rehabilitation settings. Case summaries of each participant provided the basis for within- and across-case analysis. Credibility of these results was established through member check of the case summaries, presentation of low-inference data, and triangulation across multiple data sources and within and across the participant groups.

Results
Although all participants engaged in reflection-on-action, the experienced participants did so with greater frequency. The experienced participants were distinguished by their use of reflection-in-action and self-assessment during therapist-patient interactions. An intermediate effect beyond novice practice was observed.

Conclusions
The results of this study may be used by educators and employers to develop and structure learning experiences and mentoring opportunities to facilitate clinical decision-making abilities and the development of the skills necessary for reflection in students and novice practitioners.
Proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Takeuchi Hiroaki , Hashimoto Norichika , Kitai Ryuhei , Kubota Toshihiko , Kikuta Ken-ichiro 
Published: November 2009

Object
Glioblastomas multiforme (GBM) contain a higher number of α-smooth muscle actin (SMA)–positive vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) than those in the respective normal neuronal tissue. The role of VSMCs during angiogenesis is unclear, and it is also uncertain whether and to what extent angiogenic factors might be involved in GBM VSMCs. In GBMs, the contribution of VSMCs in angiogenesis accompanying endothelial proliferation and the correlation of VSMC proliferation with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) expression were examined using an immunohistochemical method.

Methods
The examined material, including surrounding brain tissue, came from 12 cases (6 men and 6 women) with classic GBM. Microvessel densities (MVDs) of CD31-immunoreactive vessels (CD31-MVD) and SMA-immunoreactive vessels (SMA-MVD) were obtained in areas selected from white matter, boundary, tumor (concentrated area of tumor cells), and perinecrosis. Subsequently, the SMA-MVD/CD31-MVD (SMA/CD31) rate, representing the percentage of vessels with VSMCs in the region, was calculated in each area. The VEGF immunoreactivity of tumor cells was examined, and cases were divided into 2 groups: < 30% VEGF expression of tumor cells (low VEGF group) and > 30% VEGF expression of tumor cells (high VEGF group).

Results
The SMA/CD31 rate of the boundary was significantly lower than that of the tumor (p < 0.005) and perinecrosis (p < 0.001). The SMA/CD31 rate of the high VEGF group was significantly higher than that of the low VEGF group (p < 0.05) in the tumor.

Conclusions
In GBMs, the transformation and proliferation of VSMCs may accompany neovascularization and may also be induced by angiogenic factors.
Variations in Hole Injection due to Fast and Slow Interfacial Traps in Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes with Interlayers
Authors: Harding M. James , Poplavskyy Dmitry , Choong Vi‐En , So Franky , Campbell Alasdair J. 
Published: November 2009

AbstractDetailed studies on the effect of placing a thin (10 nm) solution‐processable interlayer between a light‐emitting polymer (LEP) layer and a poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)/poly(styrenesulfonic)‐acid‐coated indium tin oxide anode is reported; particular attention is directed at the effects on the hole injection into three different LEPs. All three different interlayer polymers have low ionization potentials, which are similar to those of the LEPs, so the observed changes in hole injection are not due to variations in injection barrier height. It is instead shown that changes are due to variations in hole trapping at the injecting interface, which is responsible for varying the hole current by up to two orders of magnitude. Transient measurements show the presence of very fast interfacial traps, which fill the moment charge is injected from the anode. These can be considered as injection pathway dead‐ends, effectively reducing the active contact surface area. This is followed by slower interfacial traps, which fill on timescales longer than the carrier transit time across the device, further reducing the total current. The interlayers may increase or decrease the trap densities depending on the particular LEP involved, indicating the dominant role of interfacial chain morphology in injection. Penetration of the interlayer into the LEP layer can also occur, resulting in additional changes in the bulk LEP transport properties.
Photochromic Polymers Based on the Photoinduced Opening and Thermal Closing of [1,3]Oxazine Rings
Authors: Tomasulo Massimiliano , Deniz Erhan , Benelli Tiziana , Sortino Salvatore , Raymo Françisco M. 
Published: November 2009

AbstractTwo macromolecular constructs incorporating a single polymer backbone with multiple photochromic side chains are developed. Both systems are prepared from preformed photochromic [1,3]oxazines after the ring‐opening polymerization of their norbornene appendages. In solution, UV illumination of these polymers opens the [1,3]oxazine rings in their side chains in less than 6 ns and with a quantum yield of 0.09 in both instances. The photogenerated species incorporate a 4‐nitrophenolate chromophore, and hence, their formation is accompanied by the appearance of an intense band in the visible region of the absorption spectrum. The photoproducts revert spontaneously to the original state with first‐order kinetics in microseconds. Furthermore, both photochromic polymers tolerate hundreds of switching cycles with no sign of degradation, even in the presence of molecular oxygen. Thus, this design logic and choice of functional building blocks can translate into the realization of innovative photoresponsive materials with excellent photochromic performance.
Designer Biomaterials for Nanomedicine
Authors: Doshi Nishit , Mitragotri Samir 
Published: November 2009

AbstractNanotechnology has had tremendous impact on medical science and has resulted in phenomenal progress in the field of drug delivery and diagnostics. A wide spectrum of novel nanomaterials including polymeric particles, liposomes, quantum dots, and iron oxide particles have been developed for applications in therapeutic delivery and diagnostics. This has resulted in control over the rate and period of delivery and targeting of drugs to specific organs in the human body. This feature article focuses on the delivery of drugs using polymeric particles. The size, choice of polymer, surface chemistry, shape, and mechanical properties of the particles are parameters that critically affect particle function. Numerous biomaterials and fabrication techniques have been developed in the last decade that focus on novel design parameters, such as shape and mechanical properties and the interplay of these parameters with the size and surface chemistry of particles. Recent advances with particular focus on the importance of particle shape are highlighted, and the challenges that are yet to be fulfilled are underscored.
Red‐Emitting Polyfluorenes Grafted with Quinoline‐Based Iridium Complex: “Simple Polymeric Chain, Unexpected High Efficiency”
Authors: Ma Zhihua , Ding Junqiao , Zhang Baohua , Mei Chongyu , Cheng Yanxiang , Xie Zhiyuan , Wang Lixiang , Jing Xiabin , Wang Fosong 
Published: November 2009

AbstractA series of red‐light emitting electrophosphorescent polyfluorenes (PFs) with varying content of a quinoline‐based iridium complex, (PPQ)2Ir(acac) (bis(2,4‐diphenylquinolyl‐N,C2′) iridium(acetylacetonate)), in the side chain are synthesized by Suzuki polycondensation. Because of the efficient Förster energy transfer from the PF main chain to (PPQ)2Ir(acac) and direct charge trapping on the complex, the electroluminescent emission from PF is nearly completely quenched, even though the amount of iridium complex incorporated into the polymers is as low as 1 mol %. Based on a single‐layer device configuration, a luminous efficiency of up to 5.0 cd A−1 with a luminance of 2000 cd m−2 and Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinates of (0.63, 0.35) (x, y) is realized, which is far superior to that of previously reported red‐light emitting PFs containing benzothiazole‐ and isoquinoline‐based iridium complexes. This result is beyond expectations, especially when considering that the simple polymeric chain involved has no additional charge‐transporting moieties. Noticeably, the device efficiency remains as high as 4.2 cd A−1 with a luminance of 4000 cd m−2 even at current densities of 100 mA cm−2. Further optimization of the device configuration by incorporating an additional electron‐injection layer leads to improved efficiencies of 8.3 and 7.5 cd A−1 at luminances of 100 and 1000 cd m−2, respectively. This state‐of‐the‐art performance indicates that covalently attaching quinoline‐based iridium complexes to a PF backbone is a simple and effective strategy to develop high‐efficiency red‐light emitting electrophosphorescent polymers.
Barrier and mechanical properties of nanocomposites based on polymer blends and organoclays
Authors: Ophir A. , Dotan A. , Belinsky I. , Kenig S. 
Published: November 2009

AbstractNanoclays (NCs) impart highly effective barrier properties to polymers due to their platelet structure, provided that the NCs are exfoliated and form a parallel array relative to the product surface. High barrier films with enhanced mechanical properties were developed and studied using blends of polyamide (PA) or ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) with polyethylene (PE) and compatibilizing copolymer, and with incorporated NC. Permeability measurements indicated that by increasing the active polymers concentration up to 30%, however, reducing the barrier layer thickness comprising the active polymers (PA or EVOH), resulting in reduction of the oxygen transmission rate (OTR) by more than 7‐ to 8‐folds. When NC was incorporated in the concentrated active polymer layer, the barrier to oxygen was further increased. This resulting in equal or even better barrier properties compared to the case where the active polymers are at 95% concentration. The increase in barrier properties was attributed to the laminar structure of the incompatible active polymer in addition to the orientation of the NC with its additional effects due to nucleation and enhancement of the amorphous phase barrier. The mechanical properties of the concentrated active layer (CAL) films were better or comparable with respect to the high barrier reference films. Furthermore, a nucleation effect, leading to increased crystallinity, was identified in the cases where PA compositions contained NC, whereas selective nucleation was obtained in the case where EVOH compositions contained NC. These observations, on oxygen barrier and mechanical properties, were further supported by the results obtained from thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry [DSC]), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging studies carried out on the hybrid films. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2010