bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Urea co-inclusion compounds of 13 cis-retinoic acid for simultaneous improvement of dissolution profile, photostability and safe handling characteristics
Authors: Thakral Seema , Madan A K 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
13-cis Retinoic acid (cis-RA), a synthetic retinoid used in the treatment of severe acne, is known to exhibit extremely low aqueous solubility and high photosensitivity. In this study, urea, a well-known adductor for linear compounds, was successfully employed for the adduction of cis-RA — a substituted cyclic organic compound. Formation of urea inclusion compounds was confirmed by FTIR, DSC and XRD. A modified Zimmerschied calorimetric method was employed for the estimation of the minimum amount of rapidly adductible endocyte (RAE) required for adduction of cis-RA in urea. Urea–cis-RA-RAE inclusion compounds containing varying proportions of guests were prepared and their thermal behaviour studied by DSC. The inclusion compounds were found to have an improved dissolution profile as demonstrated by an overall increase in the dissolution efficiency. An accelerated photostability study, conducted as per Q1B ICH guidelines, revealed that co-inclusion of cis-RA in urea delayed photo-degradation of the drug when compared with that of the pure drug. The results suggest the possibility of exploiting co-inclusion of the drug in a urea host lattice for improved solubility, stability and reduced handling problems for cis-RA.
Synthesis and anti-melanogenic effects of lipoic acid-polyethylene glycol ester
Authors: Kim Jin-Hwa , Sim Gwan-Sub , Bae Jun-Tae , Oh Jung-Young , Lee Geun-Su , Lee Dong-Hwan , Lee Bum-Chun , Pyo Hyeong-Bae 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
To develop a new potent anti-melanogenic agent, we have conjugated lipoic acid (LA) to poly (ethylene) glycol (PEG) of molecular weight 2000 and examined the effects on inhibition of tyrosinase activity and melanin synthesis in B16F10 melanoma cells. The water-soluble LA-PEG 2000 was synthesized from LA and methylated PEG by an esterification reaction in the presence of 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl)-carbodiimide. Synthetic LA-PEG 2000 was confirmed by IR and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. The new conjugate is a highly water-soluble molecule, which has lower cell cytotoxicity than LA. Treatment with LA-PEG 2000 significantly suppressed the biosynthesis of melanin by up to 63% at 0.25 mm and reduced tyrosinase activity by up to 80% at 0.50 mm in B16F10 melanoma cells. Furthermore, Western blot and RT-PCR studies indicated that treatment with LA-PEG 2000 decreased the level of tyrosinase, which is a melanogenic enzyme. Taken together, these results suggest that LA-PEG 2000 may inhibit melanin biosynthesis by down-regulating levels and expression of tyrosinase activity. Therefore, LA-PEG 2000 can be used effectively as a new agent to inhibit mel-anogenesis, with lower cytotoxicity than LA (parent molecule) in B16F10 melanoma cells.
Activation of the Nrf2-antioxidant system by a novel cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor furan-2-yl-3-pyridin-2-yl-propenone: implication in anti-inflammatory function by Nrf2 activator
Authors: Manandhar Sarala , You Aram , Lee Eung-Seok , Kim Jung-Ae , Kwak Mi-Kyoung 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Furan-2-yl-3-pyridin-2-yl-propenone (FPP-3) is a novel synthetic compound and has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). It is widely accepted that reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by activated inflammatory cells can exacerbate inflammation. In this study, the potential antioxidative efficacy of FPP-3 has been investigated in murine cells. FPP-3 increased the expression of multiple antioxidative enzymes, including NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 (Nqo1), γ-glutamylcysteine ligase (GCL) and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), by facilitating the nuclear translocation of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-p45-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Inducibility of antioxidant proteins such as HO-1 were lost in nrf2-deficient murine fibroblasts. As a result of enhanced cellular antioxidative capacity, elevation of NF-κB-driven reporter gene expression by lipopolysaccharide was attenuated by FPP-3 treatment in murine fibroblasts. Furthermore, FPP-3 treatment inhibited UVA-mediated induction of COX-2 in murine keratinocytes. Our current study suggests that FPP-3, which has been developed as a novel COX-2 inhibitor, has antioxidative properties by activating the Nrf2-ARE pathway. The dual function of this compound may provide a better strategy to block/attenuate the inflammation process and to alleviate ROS-associated inflammatory complications.
Mechanisms underlying the biphasic effect of vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) on arterial blood pressure
Authors: Tirapelli Carlos R , Resstel Leonardo B M , de Oliveira Ana M , Corrêa Fernando M A 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Phylloquinone (vitamin K1, VK1) is widely used therapeutically and intravenous administration of this quinone can induce hypotension. We aimed to investigate the mechanisms underlying the effects induced by VK1 on arterial blood pressure. With this purpose a catheter was inserted into the abdominal aorta of male Wistar rats for blood pressure and heart rate recording. Bolus intravenous injection of VK1 (0.5–20 mgkg−1) produced a transient increase in blood pressure followed by a fall. Both the pressor and depressor response induced by VK1 were dose-dependent. On the other hand, intravenous injection of VK1 did not alter heart rate. The nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitor NG-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 and 20 mgkg−1) reduced both the increase and decrease in blood pressure induced by VK1 (5 mgkg−1). On the other hand, indometacin (10 mgkg−1), a non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitor, did not alter the increase in mean arterial pressure (MAP) induced by VK1. However, VK1-induced fall in MAP was significantly attenuated by indometacin. We concluded that VK1 induces a dose-dependent effect on blood pressure that consists of an acute increase followed by a more sustained decrease in MAP. The hypotension induced by VK1 involves the activation of the nitric oxide (NO) pathway and the release of vasodilator prostanoid(s).
Immunomodulatory effect of Schizonepeta tenuifolia water extract on mouse Th1/Th2 cytokine production in-vivo and in-vitro
Authors: Kang Hee , Oh Yoo-Joung , Choi Ho-Young , Ham In-Hye , Bae Hyun-Su , Kim Sung-Hoon , Ahn Kyoo-Seok 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Schizonepeta tenuifolia (ST) is a major herbal constituent included in treatments for the common cold with fever, ostitis media and other skin inflammations. The present study investigated the effect of ST water extract on the pattern of cytokine production from activated T cells in-vivo and in-vitro. When ST (200 mgkg−1) was given orally to mice for 7 days before i.v. injection of anti-CD3 antibody, it significantly decreased mRNA levels of interleukin (IL)-4, interferon (IFN)-γ and T-bet. Our flow cytometric analysis showed that ST administration significantly increased CD69 expression but showed little effect on the subsets of T cells. When we cultured mouse CD4 T cells under Th1/Th2 differentiation in the presence of ST, the suppressive activity of ST on IFN-γ involved T-bet, but the downregulation of IL-4 occurred independently of the Th2 transcription factors GATA binding protein 3 (GATA-3) and c-Maf. However, it increased IL-2 secretion during Th1/Th2 differentiation. Our study demonstrates that ST regulates inflammatory responses by reducing the release of Th1 and Th2 cytokines from T cells and prevents unprimed CD4 T cells from differentiating into Th1 and Th2 cells.
Eutigoside C inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE2, IL-6) by down-regulating NF-κB and MAP kinase activity in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells
Authors: Lee Hye-Ja , Oh Tae-Heon , Yoon Weon-Jong , Kang Gyeoung-Jin , Yang Eun-Jin , Park Sun-Soon , Lee Nam-Ho , Kang Hee-Kyoung , Yoo Eun-Sook 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Eutigoside C, a compound isolated from the leaves of Eurya emarginata, is thought to be an active anti-inflammatory compound which operates through an unknown mechanism. In the present study we investigated the molecular mechanisms of eutigoside C activity in lipopolysacchardide (LPS)-stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells. Treatment with eutigoside C inhibited LPS-stimulated production of nitric oxide (NO), prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). To further elucidate the mechanism of this inhibitory effect of eutigoside C, we studied LPS-induced nuclear factor (NF)-κB activation and mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase phosphorylation. Eutigoside C suppressed NF-κB DNA binding activity, interfering with nuclear translocation of NF-κB. Eutigoside C suppressed the phosphorylation of three MAP kinases (ERK1/2, JNK and p38). These results suggest that eutigoside C inhibits the production of inflammatory mediators (NO, PGE2 and interleukin-6) by suppressing the activation and translocation of NF-κB and the phosphorylation of MAP kinases (ERK1/2, JNK and p38) in LPS-stimulated murine macrophage RAW 264.7 cells.
Anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour effects of Abies georgei extracts
Authors: Yang Xian-Wen , Zeng Hua-Wu , Liu Xiao-Hua , Li Su-Mei , Xu Wen , Shen Yun-Heng , Zhang Chuan , Zhang Wei-Dong 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Chloroform (AGC), ethyl acetate (AGE) and n-butanol (AGB) extracts of Abies georgei were investigated for anti-tumour and anti-inflammatory activities in-vitro and in-vivo. AGC exhibited potent antiproliferative effects against A549, LOVO, QGY-7703 and 6T-CEM tumour cells, with EC50 values of 77.5, 7.8, 11.1 and 32.8 μgmL−1, respectively. It also inhibited the growth of S180 sarcoma implanted into mice; tumour growth inhibition ratios were 46.7, 53.1 and 31.0% of controls at doses of 100, 200 and 400 mgkg−1, respectively. AGE showed significant anti-inflammatory activities in the carrageenin-induced acute pedal oedema model in rats and dimethylbenzene-induced ear oedema in mice at doses of 140 mgkg−1 and 200 mgkg−1 p.o., respectively. Primary mechanism studies in-vitro showed that AGE inhibited platelet aggregation induced in rabbits by arachidonic acid (AA), with an IC50 of 14.4 μgmL−1. Its effect on AA metabolism was also studied in mouse peritoneal macrophages stimulated by A23187. Formation of prostaglandin E2, leukotriene B4 and 5S-hydroxy-6E,8Z,11Z,14Z-eicosatetraenoic acid (5-HETE) was significantly inhibited in a concentration-dependent manner. In addition, AGE inhibited lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide production in RAW246.7 macrophages and nuclear factor κB activation induced in 293 cells by tumour necrosis factor α.
Synthesis of Diketones and ω-Hydroxy Ketones from Methyl Ketones and α,ω-Diols by an [IrCl(cod)]2/PPh3/KOH System
Authors: Maeda Kensaku , Obora Yasushi , Sakaguchi Satoshi , Ishii Yasutaka 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
ω-Hydroxy ketones and diketones, which are important starting materials for the synthesis of cycloalkanones and heterocyclic compounds, were prepared by the one-step reaction of methyl ketones with α,ω-diols under the influence of an iridium complex and a base. The selectivity of ω-hydroxy ketones and diketones could be controlled by varying the starting ratio of methyl ketones to α,ω-diols. For example, reaction using acetophenone (5 equiv) with respect to 1,6-hexanediol (1 equiv) in the presence of [IrCl(cod)]2, PPh3, and KOH without solvent gave 1,10-diphenyl-1,10-decanedione in almost quantitative yield, while reaction using acetophenone (1 equiv) to 1,6-hexanediol (4 equiv) led to 8-hydroxy-1-phenyl-1-octanone in 92% yield. This methodology was successfully extended to the reaction of arylacetonitriles with α,ω-diols leading to diaryldinitriles.
State-of-the-Art of Serum Testosterone Measurement by Isotope Dilution–Liquid Chromatography– Tandem Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Thienpont Linda M , Van Uytfanghe Katleen , Blincko Stuart , Ramsay Carol S , Xie Hui , Doss Robert C , Keevil Brian G , Owen Laura J , Rockwood Alan L , Kushnir Mark M , Chun Kelly Y , Chandler Donald W , Field Helen P , Sluss Patrick M 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Background: The recent interest of clinical laboratories in developing serum testosterone assays based on isotope dilution–liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (ID-LC-MS/MS) stems from the lack of accuracy of direct immunoassays. In this study, we assessed the accuracy and state of standardization (traceability) of 4 published ID-LC-MS/MS procedures in a method comparison with an ID–gas chromatography (GC)–MS reference measurement procedure listed in the database of the Joint Committee for Traceability in Laboratory Medicine.
Methods: The study used 58 specimens from different patient categories. Each specimen was measured in triplicate (ID-LC-MS/MS) and quadruplicate (ID-GC-MS) in independent runs.
Results: The testosterone concentrations by ID-GC-MS were 0.2–4.4 nmol/L (women), 0.2–2.0 nmol/L (hypogonadal man), and 10.1–31.3 nmol/L (normogonadal men). For ID-GC-MS, the CV was nearly constant, with a median of 1.0%; for ID-LC-MS/MS, it was concentration-dependent, with a median of up to 8%. Weighted Deming regression gave mean slopes, intercepts, and correlation coefficients of 0.90–1.11, −0.055–0.013 nmol/L, and 0.993–0.997, respectively. The % difference plot showed between 7% and 26% of the results outside a total error limit of 14%, with median deviations from ID-GC-MS between −9.6 and 0.4%.
Conclusions: This study demonstrated fairly good accuracy and standardization of the tested ID-LC-MS/MS procedures. Performance differences between procedures were evident in some instances, due to improper calibration and between-run calibration control. This emphasizes the need for thorough validation, including traceability, of new ID-LC-MS/MS procedures.
Representations of restricted Lie algebras and families of associative ℒ-algebras
Authors: Premet Alexander , Skryabin Serge 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
Let ℒ be an n-dimensional restricted Lie algebra over an algebraically closed field K of characteristic p > 0. Given a linear function ξ on ℒ and a scalar λ ∈ K, we introduce an associative algebra Uξ,λ (ℒ) of dimension pn over K. The algebra Uξ,1 (ℒ) is isomorphic to the reduced enveloping algebra Uξ (ℒ), while the algebra Uξ,0 (ℒ) is nothing but the reduced symmetric algebra Sξ (ℒ). Deformation arguments (applied to this family of algebras) enable us to derive a number of results on dimensions of simple ℒ-modules. In particular, we give a new proof of the Kac-Weisfeiler conjecture (see [41], [35]) which uses neither support varieties nor the classification of nilpotent orbits, and compute the maximal dimension of simple ℒ-modules for all ℒ having a toral stabiliser of a linear function.
Projection constants of symmetric spaces and variants of Khintchine's inequality
Authors: König Hermann , Schütt Carsten , Tomczak-Jaegermann Nicole 
Published: June 2008

Abstract
The projection constants of the lpn-spaces for 1 ≦ p ≦ 2 satisfy with in the real case and in the complex case. Further, there is c < 1 such that the projection constant of any n-dimensional space Xn with 1-symmetric basis can be estimated by . The proofs of the results are based on averaging techniques over permutations and a variant of Khintchine's inequality which states that
Credibility, Hypothesis Testing and Regression Software
Authors: Taylor Greg 
Published: June 2008

It has been known since Zehnwirth (1977) that a scalar credibility coefficient is closely related to the F-statistic of an analysis of variance between and within risk clauses. The F-statistic may also be viewed as testing a certain regression structure, associated with credibility framework, against the null hypothesis of a simpler structure.This viewpoint is extended to multi-dimensional credibility frameworks in which the credibility coefficient is a matrix (Sections 3 and 4), and to hierarchical regression credibility frameworks (Section 6). In each case the credibility coefficient is expressed in terms of the F-statistic that tests the significance of a defined regression structure against a simpler one.Section 5 points out how the computation may be implemented in certain cases by means of regression software.
The potential of bio-methane as bio-fuel/bio-energy for reducing greenhouse gas emissions: a qualitative assessment for Europe in a life cycle perspective
Authors: Tilche Andrea , Galatola Michele 
Published: June 2008

Anaerobic digestion is a well known process that (while still capable of showing new features) has experienced several waves of technological development. It was “born” as a wastewater treatment system, in the 1970s showed promise as an alternative energy source (in particular from animal waste), in the 1980s and later it became a standard for treating organic-matter-rich industrial wastewater, and more recently returned to the market for its energy recovery potential, making use of different biomasses, including energy crops. With the growing concern around global warming, this paper looks at the potential of anaerobic digestion in terms of reduction of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
The potential contribution of anaerobic digestion to GHG reduction has been computed for the 27 EU countries on the basis of their 2005 Kyoto declarations and using life cycle data. The theoretical potential contribution of anaerobic digestion to Kyoto and EU post-Kyoto targets has been calculated. Two different possible biogas applications have been considered: electricity production from manure waste, and upgraded methane production for light goods vehicles (from landfill biogas and municipal and industrial wastewater treatment sludges). The useful heat that can be produced as by-product from biogas conversion into electricity has not been taken into consideration, as its real exploitation depends on local conditions. Moreover the amount of biogas already produced via dedicated anaerobic digestion processes has also not been included in the calculations. Therefore the overall gains achievable would be even higher than those reported here.
This exercise shows that biogas may considerably contribute to GHG emission reductions in particular if used as a biofuel. Results also show that its use as a biofuel may allow for true negative GHG emissions, showing a net advantage with respect to other biofuels. Considering also energy crops that will become available in the next few years as a result of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reform, this study shows that biogas has the potential of covering almost 50% of the 2020 biofuel target of 10% of all automotive transport fuels, without implying a change in land use. Moreover, considering the achievable GHG reductions, a very large carbon emission trading “value” could support the investment needs.
However, those results were obtained through a “qualitative” assessment. In order to produce robust data for decision makers, a quantitative sustainability assessment should be carried out, integrating different methodologies within a life cycle framework. The identification of the most appropriate policy for promoting the best set of options is then discussed.
Establishing the case for CT angiography in the preoperative imaging of abdominal wall perforators
Authors: Rozen W. M. , Ashton M. W. , Grinsell D. , Stella D. L. , Phillips T. J. , Taylor G. I. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractPreoperative imaging of the donor site vasculature for deep inferior epigastric artery (DIEA) perforator flaps and other abdominal wall reconstructive flaps has become more commonplace. Abdominal wall computed tomography angiography (CTA) has been described as the most accurate and reproducible modality available for demonstrating the location, size, and course of individual perforators. We drew on our experience of 75 consecutive patients planned for DIEA‐based flap surgery undertaking CTA at a single institution. Seven of these cases have been reported to highlight the utility of CTA for preoperative planning, emphasizing the unique information supplied by CTA that may influence operative outcome. Among all cases that underwent preoperative imaging with CTA, there was 100% flap survival, with no partial or complete flap necrosis. We found that in three of the cases described, the choice of operation was necessarily selected based on CTA findings (DIEA perforator flap, transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap, and superficial superior epigastric artery flap). In addition, three cases demonstrate that CTA findings may dictate the decision to operate at all, and one case demonstrates the utility of CTA for evaluating the entire abdominal contents for comorbid conditions. Our experience with CTA for abdominal wall perforator mapping has been highly beneficial. CTA may guide operative technique and improve perforator selection in uncomplicated cases, and in difficult cases it can guide the most appropriate operation or indeed if an operation is appropriate at all. This is particularly the case in the setting of comorbidities or previous abdominal surgery. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Harvesting of forearm perforator flaps based on intraoperative vascular exploration: Clinical experiences and literature review
Authors: Matei Ileana , Georgescu Alexandru , Chiroiu Bogdan , Capota Irina , Ardelean Filip 
Published: June 2008

AbstractThe use of perforator flaps all over the body, as free microsurgical transfers, as well as pedicled or transposition flaps gained more and more importance in the surgery of tissue defects. When we consider harvesting such flaps at trunk level, in repeatedly traumatized areas, after previous surgery or when we plan to use the perforator flap as a free flap, it is very important to perform preoperative investigations aimed to precisely localize the perforator or perforators able to sustain such a flap. But, at limb level and, especially, at forearm level, the preoperative investigations cannot always have a complete justification. After a short review of the main preoperative investigations used in flap surgery and considering our color Doppler study, we will present in this article our technique of performing such flaps in the forearm, without any preoperative perforator vessel detection. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.
Invited Discussion: Harvesting of forearm perforator flaps based on intraoperative vascular exploration: Clinical experiences and literature review
Authors: Lee Gordon K. 
Published: June 2008

AbstractAdvancements in microsurgery and a better understanding of vascular anatomy has allowed for expanding indications for perforators flaps in reconstructive surgery. The use of perforator flaps in the forearm has not become widespread, yet the benefit of sparing a major peripheral artery such as the ulnar or radial is certainly worth considering. The authors present their experience with perforator flaps in the forearm. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2008.