bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. (white turmeric): a review of its chemical, pharmacological and ethnomedicinal properties
Authors: Lobo Richard , Prabhu Kirti S , Shirwaikar Annie , Shirwaikar Arun 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Objectives
Curcuma zedoaria Rosc is a perennial herb found in tropical countries, such as India, Japan and Thailand. Various parts of this plant are used in Ayurveda and other folk medicines for the treatment of different ailments such as diarrhoea, cancer, flatulence and dyspepsia. This study is an attempt to compile an up-to-date and comprehensive review of C. zedoaria that covers its traditional and folk medicinal uses, phytochemistry and pharmacology.

Key findings
Research carried out using different in-vitro and in-vivo techniques of biological evaluation supports most of the claims.

Summary
This review presents the botany, chemistry, traditional uses and pharmacological data of the plant.
Anticoagulant and antithrombotic activity of a new peptide pENW (pGlu-Asn-Trp)
Authors: Xiong Jing , Fang Wei , Fang Weirong , Bai Li , Huo Jianli , Kong Yi , Yunman Li 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Objectives
The aim was to test a newly discovered oligopeptide, pENW (pGlu-Asn-Trp), for its anticoagulant and antithrombotic activity in vivo, and try to investigate its underlying mechanisms.

Methods
We measured coagulation time by the glass slide method and bleeding time by cutting of mice tails. The thrombosis models employed here included an arterio-venous shunt model and inferior vena ligation model. An ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) was used to analyse t-PA/PAI (tissue-type plasminogen activator/plasminogen activator inhibitor) in the blood drawn from the rats with thrombosis. The ultrastructural changes of the endothelium in the vessels developing thrombosis were observed under a transmission electron microscope.

Key findings
We found that pENW-treated mice exhibited a prolonged coagulation time in a dose-dependent manner, but not an extended haemorrhage time. On the other hand, pENW significantly inhibited thrombus formation in both arterio-venous shunt models and inferior vena ligation models. Plasma t-PA/PAI was significantly higher as measured by ELISA. Transmission electron microscope photos of pENW-treated groups also displayed a better condition than model controls, with less erythrocytes in the vascular lumens. In addition, pENW concentration-dependently inhibited aggregation of platelets induced by ADP (adenosine 5′-diphosphate sodium salt) in rabbit platelet-rich plasma.

Conclusions
These findings support the suggestion that pENW possesses antithrombotic activity and could be a promising drug in the prevention and treatment of unwanted clot formation.
Effect of traditional Chinese herbal Bu-Wang-San on synaptic plasticity in ovariectomised rats
Authors: Li Hui , Li Shu-Ling , Wu Zhi-Hong , Gong Li , Wang Jiu-Ling , Li Yu-Zhu 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Objectives
The neuroprotective effects of Bu-Wang-San (BWS) and its effects on spine synapse plasticity were investigated in ovariectomised rats.

Methods
Thirty-six ovariectomised rats were divided into three groups: untreated controls, treatment with 17β-estradiol or with BWS. After 3 months, spatial acquisition and spatial retention were measured using the Morris water maze. Swim time, swim distance, swim speed, quadrant time and platform crossing were recorded. Spine synapse density in the hippocampus was examined by transmission electron microscopy. The expression of synaptophysin P38 (P38) mRNA was examined by real-time PCR and the protein expression of P38 was examined by Western blot.

Key findings
In spatial acquisition and spatial retention, the BWS group functioned significantly better than the control group. Ultrastructural observation of the hippocampus showed that BWS significantly increased spine synapse density compared with the ovariectomised group. In addition, BWS significantly increased P38 mRNA and protein expression in the hippocampus. Thus, the positive effect of BWS on learning and memory in rats was associated with increased spinal synapse density and increased P38 mRNA and protein expression in the hippocampus following menopause-induced injury.

Conclusions
These results suggest that BWS could improve cognitive ability following menopause-induced impairment of learning and memory.
In-vitro sulfation of piceatannol by human liver cytosol and recombinant sulfotransferases
Authors: Miksits Michaela , Sulyok Michael , Schuhmacher Rainer , Szekeres Thomas , Jäger Walter 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate the concentration-dependent sulfation of piceatannol, a dietary polyphenol present in grapes and wine and known for its promising anticancer and anti-inflammatory activity.

Methods
Sulfation of piceatannol was investigated in human liver cytosol as well as using a panel of recombinant sulfotransferase isoforms. Furthermore, the chemical structures of novel sulfates were identified by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS).

Key findings
In the presence of 3′-phosphoadenosine-5′-phosphosulfate, three metabolites could be detected whose structures were identified by LC/MS/MS as piceatannol disulfate (M1) and two monosulfates (M2, M3). The kinetics of M1 formation exhibited a pattern of substrate inhibition with a Ki of 21.8 ± 11.3 μM and a Vmax/Km of 7.63 ± 1.80 μl/mg protein per min. Formation of M2 and M3 showed sigmoidal kinetics with apparent Km and Vmax values of 27.1 ± 2.90 μM and 118.4 ± 4.38 pmol/mg protein per min, respectively, for M2; and 35.7 ± 2.70 μM and 81.8 ± 2.77 pmol/mg protein per min, respectively, for M3. Incubation in the presence of human recombinant sulfotransferases (SULTs) demonstrated that M1 was formed equally by SULT1A1*1 and SULT1B1 and to a lesser extent by SULT1A1*2. M2 was preferentially catalysed by SULT1A1*2, 1A3 and 1E1. The formation of M3, however, was mainly catalysed by SULT1A2*1 and SULT1A3.

Conclusions
Our results elucidate the importance of piceatannol sulfation in human liver, which must be taken into account in humans after dietary intake of piceatannol.
Distribution of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) within model excisional wounds following topical application
Authors: Braund Rhiannon , Hook Sarah M , Greenhill Nicholas , Medlicott Natalie J 
Published: June 2009

Abstract

Objective
To characterise the magnitude and distribution of fibroblast growth factor-2 (FGF-2) following topical application in hypromellose gel and film formulations or a solution in an animal wound model, in order to assess the potential of this route for treatment of chronic wounds.

Method
Topical formulations of FGF-2 were applied to punch biopsy wounds, and FGF-2 levels within the wound measured. Each 12 mm diameter wound received 0.3 μg FGF-2 in solution, a 7% (w/w) hypromellose gel, a dried hypromellose film on Melolin-backing or a saline control. After 2, 5 or 8 h the wounds were horizontally dissected into four sections (surface granulation, subcutaneous fat, superficial muscle and deep muscle) which were then analysed for FGF-2 concentration using ELISA. Confocal microscopy was used to evaluate the distribution of FGF-2 within the wound.

Key findings
There were significant differences in the mean FGF-2 levels with respect to formulation and time following application (P &lt; 0.05). FGF-2 penetrated faster into tissue when formulated as a solution than as a gel or a film. There did not appear to be a significant difference between the gel and the film with respect to total concentrations achieved in the tissue, although confocal microscopy showed differences in FGF-2 distribution within the wound.

Conclusions
Delivery of FGF-2 to wounds in a solution gave the greatest increase in tissue FGF-2 concentration when measured by ELISA and visualised using confocal microscopy. Gel and film formulations prolonged the release of FGF-2 into the wound, although FGF-2 levels were not significantly different from controls when measured by ELISA. Confocal microscopy highlighted the differences in the penetration and distribution of the FGF-2 within the wound when released from different formulations.
A New Method to Study the Effect of Cooling Rate on the Decomposition of Austenite in Advanced High Strength Sheet Steels
Authors: Cho K. , Garcia C. I. , Hua M. , Lee J. , Ahn Y. S. , DeArdo A. J. 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
A new modified Jominy holder and specimen were developed to study the effect of chemical composition, intercritical annealing temperature, and cooling rates on the transformation behavior of a series of dual-phase sheet steels. Correlations between temperature, time, and the distance from the water quenched end were developed using a laboratory view data acquisition program. In addition, the hardness and microstructure along the length of the sheet steel sample were determined as a function of cooling rate from the intercritical annealing temperature. Special chemical regents were used to reveal new ferrite, bainite, and other microstructural components, which were also evaluated by optical, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy. Critical cooling rate equations, based on steel composition, volume fraction of austenite and intercritical annealing temperatures, were developed to avoid or minimize the formation of new ferrite and bainite. The results of this work show that the modified Jominy test is an effective and efficient way to evaluate the hardenability of sheet steels.
Influence Treatment in Laboratory of Stone Surface on the Surface Roughness
Authors: van Lent D. Q. , Molenaar A. A. A. , van de Ven M. F. C. 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Adhesion properties of asphalt mixtures are very important. Especially for porous asphalt adhesion problems are immediately a possible cause of low durability. At Delft University of Technology, research on the adhesive zone between the bituminous mortar and the stone is in progress. Small test specimens were produced and the aggregates received all kinds of treatments (sawing, coring, sandblasting, etc). An important question is if these test specimens are representative for the actual surfaces of the aggregates in the mixture. In this paper the possible influence on bitumen-aggregate adhesion of different stone surface characteristics is discussed. For this purpose, roughness tests are conducted on treated aggregate surfaces for columns used in the laboratory tests and the real stone particles as used in mixtures. Roughness (stereo-, confocal, and electron microscope), specific surface area (stereo- and confocal microscope), and surface free energy (sessile drop) are determined. It is concluded that sawing and sandblasting influence the roughness strongly compared to the aggregate surface. Also, the specific surface area of 4/8 aggregate is much larger than of the treated specimens. It is important to take this in consideration when using test results.
Is Normal Distribution the Most Appropriate Statistical Distribution for Volumetric Properties in Asphalt Mixtures?
Authors: Yiqiu Tan , Huining Xu , Xiaomin Li 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Volumetric properties are essential for a better understanding of how to design the mixtures. Due to the irregularity of aggregate shape, these properties vary randomly with the same gradation. In this paper, the volumetric properties [bulk specific gravity (γf), air voids (VV), voids in mineral aggregate (VMA), and voids filled with asphalt (VFA)] were determined on two mixtures types, namely, A and B. These mixtures were statistically analyzed using different distribution methods. Seventy-two samples of Mixture A and 52 of Mixture B were fabricated using the Marshall design method. Results of the study showed that the Weibull distribution could reflect the probability distribution law of the volumetric properties of the mixtures. The two-parameter Weibull distribution function appears to be more appropriate or use with γf and VFA, whereas the three-parameter Weibull distribution function was most appropriate for VV and VMA. The analysis of test results also revealed that there are significant differences in the volumetric properties of the two mixtures tested at the same confidence level. The confidence interval decreases with a decrease in reliability.
Deletion in a Quantitative Trait Gene qPE9-1 Associated With Panicle Erectness Improves Plant Architecture During Rice Domestication
Authors: Zhou Yong , Zhu Jinyan , Li Zhengyi , Yi Chuandeng , Liu Jun , Zhang Honggen , Tang Shuzhu , Gu Minghong , Liang Guohua 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Rice plant architecture is an important agronomic trait and a major determinant in high productivity. Panicle erectness is the preferred plant architecture in japonica rice, but the molecular mechanism underlying domestication of the erect panicle remains elusive. Here we report the map-based cloning of a major quantitative trait locus, qPE9-1, which plays an integral role in regulation of rice plant architecture including panicle erectness. The R6547 qPE9-1 gene encodes a 426-amino-acid protein, homologous to the keratin-associated protein 5-4 family. The gene is composed of three Von Willebrand factor type C domains, one transmembrane domain, and one 4-disulfide-core domain. Phenotypic comparisons of a set of near-isogenic lines and transgenic lines reveal that the functional allele (qPE9-1) results in drooping panicles, and the loss-of-function mutation (qpe9-1) leads to more erect panicles. In addition, the qPE9-1 locus regulates panicle and grain length, grain weight, and consequently grain yield. We propose that the panicle erectness trait resulted from a natural random loss-of-function mutation for the qPE9-1 gene and has subsequently been the target of artificial selection during japonica rice breeding.
A Role for Nonessential Domain II of Initiator Protein, DnaA, in Replication Control
Authors: Molt Kathryn L , Sutera Vincent A , Moore Kathryn K , Lovett Susan T 
Published: June 2009

AbstractThe initiation of replication in bacteria is regulated via the initiator protein DnaA. ATP-bound DnaA binds to multiple sequences at the origin of replication, oriC, unwinding the DNA and promoting the binding of DnaB helicase. From an Escherichia coli mutant highly perturbed for replication control, obgE∷Tn5-EZ seqAΔ, we isolated multiple spontaneous suppressor mutants with enhanced growth and viability. These suppressors suppressed the replication control defects of mutants in seqA alone and genetically mapped to the essential dnaA replication initiator gene. DNA sequence analysis of four independent isolates revealed an identical deletion of the DnaA-coding region at a repeated hexanucleotide sequence, causing a loss of 25 amino acids in domain II of the DnaA protein. Previous work has established no function for this region of protein, and deletions in the region, unlike other domains of the DnaA protein, do not produce lethality. Flow cytometric analysis established that this allele, dnaAΔ96-120, ameliorated the over-replication phenotype of seqA mutants and reduced the DNA content of wild-type strains; virtually identical effects were produced by loss of the DnaA-positive regulatory protein DiaA. DiaA binds to multiple DnaA subunits and is thought to promote cooperative DnaA binding to weak affinity DNA sites through interactions with DnaA in domains I and/or II. The dnaAΔ96-120 mutation did not affect DiaA binding in pull-down assays, and we propose that domain II, like DiaA, is required to promote optimal DnaB recruitment to oriC.
GC Content and Recombination: Reassessing the Causal Effects for the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Genome
Authors: Marsolier-Kergoat Marie-Claude , Yeramian Edouard 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
Recombination plays a crucial role in the evolution of genomes. Among many chromosomal features, GC content is one of the most prominent variables that appear to be highly correlated with recombination. However, it is not yet clear (1) whether recombination drives GC content (as proposed, for example, in the biased gene conversion model) or the converse and (2) what are the length scales for mutual influences between GC content and recombination. Here we have reassessed these questions for the model genome Saccharomyces cerevisiae, for which the most refined recombination data are available. First, we confirmed a strong correlation between recombination rate and GC content at local scales (a few kilobases). Second, on the basis of alignments between S. cerevisiae, S. paradoxus, and S. mikatae sequences, we showed that the inferred AT/GC substitution patterns are not correlated with recombination, indicating that GC content is not driven by recombination in yeast. These results thus suggest that, in S. cerevisiae, recombination is determined either by the GC content or by a third parameter, also affecting the GC content. Third, we observed long-range correlations between GC and recombination for chromosome III (for which such correlations were reported experimentally and were the model for many structural studies). However, similar correlations were not detected in the other chromosomes, restraining thus the generality of the phenomenon. These results pave the way for further analyses aimed at the detailed untangling of drives involved in the evolutionary shaping of the yeast genome.
Mutations in theSaccharomyces cerevisiaeKinase Cbk1p Lead to a Fertility Defect That Can Be Suppressed by the Absence of Brr1p or Mpt5p (Puf5p), Proteins Involved in RNA Metabolism
Authors: Bourens Myriam , Panozzo Cristina , Nowacka Aleksandra , Imbeaud Sandrine , Mucchielli Marie-Hélène , Herbert Christopher J 
Published: June 2009

AbstractIn Saccharomyces cerevisiae the protein kinase Cbk1p is a member of the regulation of Ace2p and cellular morphogenesis (RAM) network that is involved in cell separation after cytokinesis, cell integrity, and cell polarity. In cell separation, the RAM network promotes the daughter cell-specific localization of the transcription factor Ace2p, resulting in the asymmetric transcription of genes whose products are necessary to digest the septum joining the mother and the daughter cell. RAM and SSD1 play a role in the maintenance of cell integrity. In the presence of a wild-type SSD1 gene, deletion of any RAM component causes cell lysis. We show here that some mutations of CBK1 also lead to a reduced fertility and a reduced expression of some of the mating type-specific genes. As polarized growth is an integral part of the mating process, we have isolated suppressors of the fertility defect. Among these, mutations in BRR1 or MPT5 lead to a restoration of fertility and a more-or-less pronounced restoration of polarity; they also show genetic interactions with SSD1. Our experiments reveal a multilayered system controlling aspects of cell separation, cell integrity, mating, and polarized growth.
A conceptual selenium management model
Authors: Chapman Peter M , McDonald Blair G , Ohlendorf Harry M , Jones Ron 
Published: June 2009

Abstract
We describe herein a conceptual selenium (Se) management model, directed toward coal mining in western Canada, but which can be applied to other coal mines and, with appropriate modification, to other industrial sources of Se to aquatic and terrestrial environments. This conceptual model provides a transparent means to integrate and synthesize existing information that can be used to provide an adaptive approach for managing ecological exposures and associated risk. It is particularly useful for visualizing and subsequently developing management interventions for Se control and risk reduction. The model provides a structured process by which critical information needs can be identified and addressed. It effectively provides the foundation for making management decisions related to Se discharges to aquatic and terrestrial environments by showing interrelationships of the various media and receptors as well as primary sources, release mechanisms, secondary sources, and exposure pathways.
Bioaccumulation Assessment Using Predictive Approaches
Authors: Nichols John W , Bonnell Mark , Dimitrov Sabcho D , Escher Beate I , Han Xing , Kramer Nynke I 
Published: June 2009

AbstractMandated efforts to assess chemicals for their potential to bioaccumulate within the environment are increasingly moving into the realm of data inadequacy. Consequently, there is an increasing reliance on predictive tools to complete regulatory requirements in a timely and cost-effective manner. The kinetic processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and elimination (ADME) determine the extent to which chemicals accumulate in fish and other biota. Current mathematical models of bioaccumulation implicitly or explicitly consider these ADME processes, but there is a lack of data needed to specify critical model input parameters. This is particularly true for compounds that are metabolized, exhibit restricted diffusion across biological membranes, or do not partition simply to tissue lipid. Here we discuss the potential of in vitro test systems to provide needed data for bioaccumulation modeling efforts. Recent studies demonstrate the utility of these systems and provide a “proof of concept” for the prediction models. Computational methods that predict ADME processes from an evaluation of chemical structure are also described. Most regulatory agencies perform bioaccumulation assessments using a weight-of-evidence approach. A strategy is presented for incorporating predictive methods into this approach. To implement this strategy it is important to understand the “domain of applicability” of both in vitro and structure-based approaches, and the context in which they are applied.
Laboratory Study of Miscible Carbon Dioxide Flooding of UAE Carbonate Oil Reservoirs
Authors: Almehaideb Reyadh , Shedid Shedid A. , Zekri Abdulrazaq Y. 
Published: June 2009

ABSTRACT
This laboratory study describes the technical feasibility of applying CO2 miscible flooding in a major field in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The field section considered is a low permeability carbonate that had so far poorly responded to water flooding.
The study had two major aspects, phase behavior and core flooding. In phase behavior, the field's petroleum was studied with its minimum miscibility pressure with CO2 determined. Also, asphaltene precipitation due to CO2 injection was measured and included in the phase behavior model. In core flooding, detailed rock characterization was carried out using SEM, EDS, and ICP. Thereafter, core floods were carried out to evaluate the additional recovery from miscible CO2 injection and the optimum CO2 slug sizes. Core floods were also used to evaluate recoveries from different initial saturations, for less than miscible conditions, and for side effects such as asphaltene precipitation, sulfur deposition, and effect of CO2 on the limestone rock.