bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Anti-inflammatory Activity of Herbal Medicines: Inhibition of Nitric Oxide Production and Tumor Necrosis Factor-α Secretion in an Activated Macrophage-like Cell Line
Authors: Park Eunkyue , Kum Susan , Wang Chuanhua , Park Seung Yong , Kim Bo Sook , Schuller-Levis Georgia 
Published: June 2005

Houttuynia cordata Thunb. (HC), Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fischer (GU), Forsythia suspense (Thunb.) Vahl (FS), and Lonicera japonica Thunb. (LJ) are Chinese herbs known to possess anti-inflammatory properties. The effects of aqueous extracts of these herbs on the production of the pro-inflammatory mediators, nitric oxide (NO) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) were examined in an activated macrophage-like cell line, RAW 264.7 cells.Aqueous extracts from FS at 0.0625–2.0 mg/ml inhibited in vitro production of NO and secretion of TNF-α in a dose-dependent manner. FS at 1.0–2.0 mg/ml and 0.125–2.0 mg/ml significantly inhibited NO production and TNF-α, respectively. An extract of LJ demonstrated potent inhibition of both NO production and TNF-α secretion in a dose-dependent manner. An aqueous extract from HC inhibited NO production in a dose-dependent manner, but minimally (approximately 30%) inhibited TNF-α secretion at 0.0625 and 0.125 mg/ml. In contrast, an aqueous extract of GU had a minimal effect on both the production of NO and the secretion of TNF-α. Viability of cells at all concentrations studied was unaffected as determined by MTT cytotoxicity assay and trypan blue dye exclusion. These results suggest that aqueous extracts from FS, LJ and HC have anti-inflammatory actions as measured by inhibition of NO production and/or TNF-α secretion.
Rapid Assessment of Annual Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon Using MODIS Data
Authors: Morton Douglas C. , DeFries Ruth S. , Shimabukuro Yosio E. , Anderson Liana O. , Del Bon Espírito-Santo Fernando , Hansen Matthew , Carroll Mark 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
The Brazilian government annually assesses the extent of deforestation in the Legal Amazon for a variety of scientific and policy applications. Currently, the assessment requires the processing and storing of large volumes of Landsat satellite data. The potential for efficient, accurate, and less data-intensive assessment of annual deforestation using data from NASA’s Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) at 250-m resolution is evaluated. Landsat-derived deforestation estimates are compared to MODIS-derived estimates for six Landsat scenes with five change-detection algorithms and a variety of input data—Surface Reflectance (MOD09), Vegetation Indices (MOD13), fraction images derived from a linear mixing model, Vegetation Cover Conversion (MOD44A), and percent tree cover from the Vegetation Continuous Fields (MOD44B) product. Several algorithms generated consistently low commission errors (positive predictive value near 90%) and identified more than 80% of deforestation polygons larger than 3 ha. All methods accurately identified polygons larger than 20 ha. However, no method consistently detected a high percent of Landsat-derived deforestation area across all six scenes. Field validation in central Mato Grosso confirmed that all MODIS-derived deforestation clusters larger than three 250-m pixels were true deforestation. Application of this field-validated method to the state of Mato Grosso for 2001–04 highlighted a change in deforestation dynamics; the number of large clusters (&gt;10 MODIS pixels) that were detected doubled, from 750 between August 2001 and August 2002 to over 1500 between August 2003 and August 2004. These analyses demonstrate that MODIS data are appropriate for rapid identification of the location of deforestation areas and trends in deforestation dynamics with greatly reduced storage and processing requirements compared to Landsat-derived assessments. However, the MODIS-based analyses evaluated in this study are not a replacement for high-resolution analyses that estimate the total area of deforestation and identify small clearings.
Sustained response and long-term safety of eculizumab in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Hill Anita , Hillmen Peter , Richards Stephen J. , Elebute Dupe , Marsh Judith C. , Chan Jason , Mojcik Christopher F. , Rother Russell P. 
Published: June 2005

AbstractParoxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is a hematologic disorder characterized by clonal expansion of red blood cells (RBCs) lacking the ability to inhibit complement-mediated hemolysis. Eculizumab, a humanized monoclonal antibody that binds the C5 complement protein, blocks serum hemolytic activity. This study evaluated the long-term safety and efficacy of eculizumab in 11 patients with PNH during an open-label extension trial. After completion of an initial 12-week study, all patients chose to participate in the 52-week extension study. Eculizumab, administered at 900 mg every 12 to 14 days, was sufficient to completely and consistently block complement activity in all patients. A dramatic reduction in hemolysis was maintained throughout the study, with a decrease in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels from 3110.7 IU/L before treatment to 622.4 IU/L (P = .002). The proportion of PNH type III RBCs increased from 36.7% at baseline to 58.4% (P = .005). The paroxysm rate of days with gross evidence of hemoglobinuria per patient each month decreased from 3.0 during screening to 0.2 (P &lt; .001) during treatment. The median transfusion rate decreased from 1.8 U per patient each month before eculizumab treatment to 0.3 U per patient each month (P = .001) during treatment. Statistically significant improvements in quality-of-life measures were also maintained during the extension study. Eculizumab continued to be safe and well tolerated, and all patients completed the study. The close relationship between sustained terminal complement inhibition, hemolysis, and symptoms was demonstrated. (Blood. 2005; 106:2559-2565)
The effects of intrinsic pathway protease deficiencies on plasminogen-deficient mice
Authors: Cheng Qiufang , Zhao Yong , Lawson William E. , Polosukhin Vasiliy V. , Johnson Joyce E. , Blackwell Timothy S. , Gailani David 
Published: June 2005

AbstractPlasminogen (Plg)–deficient mice experience wasting and have decreased longevity due to disseminated fibrin deposition. We generated mice with combined deficiencies of Plg and coagulation factor IX (fIX) or XI (fXI) to determine the effects on the Plg null phenotype. Mice lacking Plg and fIX (Plg–/–/fIX–/–) have lower mortality at age 6 months than Plg–/–/fIX+/+ mice (15% and 67%, respectively) and less severe wasting, consistent with the importance of fIX in fibrin formation. In contrast, combined Plg and fXI deficiency (Plg–/–/fXI–/–) reduces life span (more than 90% mortality at 6 months) and is associated with leukocyte infiltration of the lungs and pulmonary fibrosis. These abnormalities are not seen in Plg–/– or Plg–/–/fIX–/– animals. Activated fXI is thought to function primarily as a fIX activator; however, our observation suggests that fXI may have functions in regulation of inflammation or tissue repair distinct from its role in coagulation.
Morphogenesis of the anterior segment in the zebrafish eye
Authors: Soules Kelly A , Link Brian A 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
The ocular anterior segment is critical for focusing incoming light onto the neural retina and for regulating intraocular pressure. It is comprised of the cornea, lens, iris, ciliary body, and highly specialized tissue at the iridocorneal angle. During development, cells from diverse embryonic lineages interact to form the anterior segment. Abnormal migration, proliferation, differentiation, or survival of these cells contribute to diseases of the anterior segment such as corneal dystrophy, lens cataract, and glaucoma. Zebrafish represent a powerful model organism for investigating the genetics and cell biology of development and disease. To lay the foundation for genetic studies of anterior segment development, we have described the morphogenesis of this structure in zebrafish.

Results
As in other vertebrates, the zebrafish anterior segment derives from diverse origins including surface ectoderm, periocular mesenchyme, and neuroepithelium. Similarly, the relative timing of tissue differentiation in the anterior segment is also conserved with other vertebrates. However, several morphogenic features of the zebrafish anterior segment differ with those of higher vertebrates. These include lens delamination as opposed to invagination, lack of iris muscles and ciliary folds, and altered organization in the iridocorneal angle. In addition, substantial dorsal-ventral differences exist within the zebrafish anterior segment.

Conclusion
Cumulatively, our anatomical findings provide a reference point to utilize zebrafish for genetic studies into the mechanisms of development and maintenance of the anterior segment.
The quality of antimalarials available in Yemen
Authors: Abdo-Rabbo Ahmed , Bassili Amal , Atta Hoda 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Malaria has always been a major public health problem in Yemen. Several studies in developing countries have demonstrated ineffective and poor quality drugs including antimalarials. Therefore, quality assessment of antimalarial drugs is of crucial importance. This study aimed to assess the quality of antimalarials (chloroquine and sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine) available in Yemen and to determine whether the quality of these products was related to the level of the distribution chain at which the samples were collected or related to the manufacturers.

Methods
Four samples from each antimalarial product were collected from each of the various levels of the distribution chain. One sample was kept with the research team. Two were tested at Sana'a and Aden Drug Quality Control Laboratories. The fourth was sent to the Centre for Quality Assurance of Medicines in Potchefstroom, South Africa, for analysis. Quality indicators measured were the content of the active ingredient and dissolution rate (for tablets only) in comparison to standard specifications for these products in the relevant pharmacopoeia.

Results
The results identified several problems of sub-standard products within the drug distribution chain. They included high and low failures in ingredient content for chloroquine tablets and chloroquine syrup. There was some dissolution failure for chloroquine tablets, and high sulfadoxine/pyrimethamine tablets dissolution failures. Failures with the dissolution of the pyrimethamine were found at most of the collection points. No clear relationship neither between the quality products and the level of the distribution chain, nor between locally manufactured and imported products was observed.

Conclusion
There are sub-standard antimalarial products circulating within the drug distribution chains in the country, which will have serious implications on the reduced therapeutic effectiveness and on the development of drug resistance. This appears to be due to non-compliance with Good Manufacturing Practice guidelines by manufacturers in the production of the antimalarials.
Comparative effects of the herbal constituent parthenolide (Feverfew) on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory gene expression in murine spleen and liver
Authors: Smolinski Alexa T , Pestka James J 
Published: June 2005

AbstractBackgroundParthenolide, a major sesquiterpene lactone present in extracts of the herb Feverfew, has been investigated for its inhibitory effects on mediators of inflammation, including the proinflammatory cytokines. Although parthenolide's anti-inflammatory effects have been investigated in vitro, little in vivo data are available. Moreover, the molecular mechanisms for these inhibitory effects are not fully understood. The objective of this study was to test the hypothesis that parthenolide suppresses lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced serum (interleukin) IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, IL-1β and cyclooxygenase (COX)-2 expression in mice as indicated by reduced splenic and liver mRNA levels.MethodsMice were co-treated i.p. with LPS (1 mg/kg bw) and parthenolide (5 mg/kg bw) and blood, spleen and liver collected. Serum was analyzed for IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β by ELISA. Total RNA was extracted from spleen and liver, and real-time RT-PCR was used to determine relative mRNA expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and COX-2.ResultsLPS induced increases in serum IL-6 and TNF-α concentrations with only IL-6 being suppressed in parthenolide-treated mice. Induction of IL-6 mRNA was reduced, TNF-α and COX-2 mRNAs unchanged, and IL-1β mRNA increased in spleens of parthenolide plus LPS co-treated animals compared to LPS-only. No significant differences were observed in inflammatory gene expression between these two groups in liver samples. Overall, mRNA expression of each proinflammatory gene was much higher in spleen when compared to liver.ConclusionIn summary, only one gene, IL-6, was modestly suppressed by parthenolide co-exposure which contrasts with many in vitro studies suggesting anti-inflammatory effects of this compound. Also, LPS evoked greater effects in spleen than liver on expression of proinflammatory genes. Further study of the effects of parthenolide and other herbal constituents on inflammatory gene expression using model animal systems as described here are critical to evaluating efficacy of such supplements as well as elucidating their mechanisms of action.
Chemically synthesized zinc finger molecules as nano-addressable probes for double-stranded DNAs
Authors: von Nickisch-Rosenegk Markus , Ehrentreich-Forster Eva , Strehlow Rothin , Christmann Alexander , Bier Frank F 
Published: June 2005

Abstract
Our experiments describe an alternative method of dsDNA recognition using zinc finger (ZF) molecules which bind DNA specifically and with high affinity. Our aim was to develop zinc finger probes which are able to bind to dsDNA molecules at predetermined sites. In our basic approach we used pairs of complementary oligonucleotides to form dsDNAs, containing one of the three SP1-transcription factor motifs as a zinc finger recognition site. Two zinc finger probes of the SP1 motif were chemically synthesized and modified with a Dy-633 fluorophore. The SP1 peptides were folded into functional zinc fingers using zinc chloride. The addressable dsDNAs were immobilized on optical fibres, and the kinetics and binding rates of the artificial zinc finger probes were measured by a fluorescence detecting device (photomultiplying tube). The two zinc fingers and their corresponding DNA recognition sites served as specific probes and controls for the matching site and vice versa. Our experiments showed that a variety of dsDNA-binding probes may be created by modification of the amino acid sequence of natural zinc finger proteins. Our findings offer an alternative approach of addressing dsDNA molecules, for example for use in a nanoarray device.
Sentinel node biopsy as an adjunct to limb salvage surgery for epithelioid sarcoma of the hand
Authors: Seal Alex , Tse Raymond , Wehrli Bret , Hammond Alex , Temple Claire LF 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Epithelioid sarcomas of the hand are rare, high-grade tumors with a propensity for regional lymphatic spread approaching 40%.

Case presentation
A 54-year-old male with an epithelioid sarcoma of the palm was treated with neoadjuvant radiation, wide excision, and two-stage reconstruction. Sentinel lymph node biopsy was used to stage the patient's axilla. Sentinel node biopsy results were negative. The patient has remained free of local, regional and distant disease for the follow-up time of 16 months.

Conclusion
The rarity of this tumor makes definitive conclusions difficult but SLN biopsy appears to be a useful adjunct in the treatment of these sarcomas.
Shape based assignment tests suggest transgressive phenotypes in natural sculpin hybrids (Teleostei, Scorpaeniformes, Cottidae)
Authors: Nolte Arne W , Sheets H David 
Published: June 2005

AbstractBackgroundHybridization receives attention because of the potential role that it may play in generating evolutionary novelty. An explanation for the emergence of novel phenotypes is given by transgressive segregation, which, if frequent, would imply an important evolutionary role for hybridization. This process is still rarely studied in natural populations as samples of recent hybrids and their parental populations are needed. Further, the detection of transgressive segregation requires phenotypes that can be easily quantified and analysed. We analyse variability in body shape of divergent populations of European sculpins (Cottus gobiocomplex) as well as natural hybrids among them.ResultsA distance-based method is developed to assign unknown specimens to known groups based on morphometric data. Apparently, body shape represents a highly informative set of characters that parallels the discriminatory power of microsatellite markers in our study system. Populations of sculpins are distinct and "unknown" specimens can be correctly assigned to their source population based on body shape. Recent hybrids are intermediate along the axes separating their parental groups but display additional differentiation that is unique and coupled with the hybrid genetic background.ConclusionThere is a specific hybrid shape component in natural sculpin hybrids that can be best explained by transgressive segregation. This inference of how hybrids differ from their ancestors provides basic information for future evolutionary studies. Furthermore, our approach may serve to assign candidate specimens to their source populations based on morphometric data and help in the interpretation of population differentiation.
The male genital system of the cellar spider Pholcus phalangioides (Fuesslin, 1775) (Pholcidae, Araneae): development of spermatozoa and seminal secretion
Authors: Michalik Peter , Uhl Gabriele 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
Most arthropods pass through several molting stages (instars) before reaching sexual maturity. In spiders, very little is known about the male genital system, its development and seminal secretions. For example, it is unknown whether spermatozoa exist prior to-, or only after the final molt. Likewise, it is unclear whether sperm are produced throughout male adulthood or only once in a lifetime, as is whether seminal secretions contain factors capable of manipulating female behavior. In order to shed light on these aspects of the reproductive biology of spiders, we investigated the male genital system of the common cellar spider Pholcus phalangioides, with special emphasis on its development and seminal secretions.

Results
Testes already display all stages of spermatogenesis in subadult males (about four weeks before the final molt). Their vasa deferentia possess proximally a very voluminous lumen containing dense seminal fluid and few spermatozoa, whereas the distal part is seemingly devoid of contents. Spermatoza of P. phalangioides are typical cleistospermia with individual secretion sheaths. In male stages approximately two weeks prior to the final molt, the lumina of the testes are wider and filled with a dense secretion. The wide, proximal portion of the vasa deferentia is filled with secretion and a large number of spermatozoa, and the narrow distal part also contains secretion. In adult males, the wide lumina of the testes are packed with spermatozoa and secretions. The latter are produced by the somatic cells that bear microvilli and contain many vesicles. The lumina of the vasa deferentia are narrow and filled with spermatozoa and secretions. We could identify a dense matrix of secretion consisting of mucosubstances and at least three types of secretion droplets, likely consisting of proteinaceous substances.

Conclusion
This study reveals that spermatogenesis begins weeks before maturity and takes place continuously in the long-lived males of P. phalangioides. Possible functions of the various types of secretion in the seminal fluid and previously investigated female secretions are discussed in the light of sexual selection.
Prospective assessment of Y-chromosome microdeletions and reproductive outcomes among infertile couples of Japanese and African origin
Authors: Kihaile Paul E , Yasui Atsushi , Shuto Yoshihiro 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background

To compare the frequency of Y-chromosome microdeletions in Japanese and African azoospermic and oligozoospermic men and describe embryo characteristics and reproductive outcome following in vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Methods

Our study was performed prospectively at two centers, a private IVF clinic and a university hospital. Japanese and African (Tanzanian) men with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA) and oligozoospermia (concentration < 5 × 106 /ml) were evaluated for Y-chromosome microdeletions (n = 162). Of the 47 men with NOA, 26 were Japanese and 21 were Africans. Of the 115 men with oligozoospermia, 87 were Japanese and 28 were Africans. Reproductive outcomes of patients with Y-chromosome microdeletions were then compared with those of 19 IVF+ICSI cycles performed on couples with Y-chromosome intact males/tubal factor infertility which served as a control group.

Results

Seven azoospermic and oligozoospermic patients had Y-chromosome deletions; the total number of deletions in the AZFc region was five. There was only one deletion in the AZFa region and one complete deletion involving all three regions (AZFa, b, and c) within AZF. In our study population, microdeletion frequency among Japanese men was 6.2% (95% CI, 4.25% – 14.45%), whereas no deletions were identified in the African group (95% CI, 0.0% – 7.27%). The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant, however. Embryos derived from ICSI utilizing sperm with Y-chromosome microdeletion showed reduced rates of fertilization, blastocyst development, implantation, and pregnancy compared to the Y-chromosome intact group, although these observed differences were not statistically significant.

Conclusion

The observed frequency of Y-chromosome microdeletion was 6.2% among Japanese azoospermic and oligozoospermic males; no microdeletions were identified among our African study patients. In this population of couples undergoing IVF+ICSI, there was no statistically significant difference in embryo characteristics or pregnancy outcome between patients with Y-chromosome microdeletion and those with an intact Y-chromosome.
Actively replicating West Nile virus is resistant to cytoplasmic delivery of siRNA
Authors: Geiss Brian J , Pierson Theodore C , Diamond Michael S 
Published: June 2005

Abstract

Background
West Nile virus is an emerging human pathogen for which specific antiviral therapy has not been developed. Recent studies have suggested that RNA interference (RNAi) has therapeutic potential as a sequence specific inhibitor of viral infection. Here, we examine the ability of exogenous small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) to block the replication of West Nile virus in human cells.

Results
WNV replication and infection was greatly reduced when siRNA were introduced by cytoplasmic-targeted transfection prior to but not after the establishment of viral replication. WNV appeared to evade rather than actively block the RNAi machinery, as sequence-specific reduction in protein expression of a heterologous transgene was still observed in WNV-infected cells. However, sequence-specific decreases in WNV RNA were observed in cells undergoing active viral replication when siRNA was transfected by an alternate method, electroporation.

Conclusion
Our results suggest that actively replicating WNV RNA may not be exposed to the cytoplasmic RNAi machinery. Thus, conventional lipid-based siRNA delivery systems may not be adequate for therapy against enveloped RNA viruses that replicate in specialized membrane compartments.