APPLIED ORGANOMETALLIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 12 2009
Serpil Demir
Abstract The reaction of 1-alkylbenzimidazole derivatives with o -/p -di(chloromethyl)benzene results in the formation of the new o -/p -xylyl-linked bis(benzimidazolium) salts, 1 and 2, respectively. The salts were characterized by NMR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The in situ prepared complexes derived from Pd(OAc)2,1 and 2 exhibit catalytic activity (61,98%), to give the Heck coupling products of aryl bromides and styrene. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

DNA polymorphism of Pvu II site in the lipoprotein lipase gene in patients with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus

CELL BIOCHEMISTRY AND FUNCTION, Issue 6 2005
Belgin Süsleyici Duman
Abstract We studied the effect of variation at the lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene locus on the susceptibility of individuals with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) in a population of 110 NIDDM patients and 91 controls. Our objective was to study the relationship between the LPL,Pvu II polymorphism and NIDDM and lipid metabolism. PCR-RFLP was used to determine the DNA polymorphism of the sixth intron of the LPL gene. The frequencies of the genotypes in case and control groups were 29.1 and 30.8% for P+/P+; 45.5 and 36.3% for P+/P,; 25.5 and 33% for P,/P, respectively. There was no significant difference in frequencies of genotypes between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis revealed that triacylglycerol (TAG) and apolipoprotein E levels were associated with NIDDM, whereas Pvu II genotypes were not found as independent risk factors for the disease. Overall this study demonstrates the role of the Pvu II polymorphism in the LPL gene in modulating plasma lipid/lipoprotein levels in patients with NIDDM. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Pd0 -Mediated Rapid Coupling between Methyl Iodide and Heteroarylstannanes: An Efficient and General Method for the Incorporation of a Positron-Emitting 11C Radionuclide into Heteroaromatic Frameworks,

CHEMISTRY - A EUROPEAN JOURNAL, Issue 45 2009
Masaaki Suzuki Prof.
Abstract The Pd0 -mediated rapid trapping of methyl iodide with an excess amount of a heteroaryl-substituted tributylstannane has been investigated with the aim of incorporating a short-lived 11C-labelled methyl group into the heteroaromatic carbon frameworks of important organic compounds, such as drugs with various heteroaromatic structures, in order to execute a positron emission tomography (PET) study of vital systems. The reaction was first performed by using our previously developed CH3I/stannane/[Pd2(dba)3]/P(o -CH3C6H4)3/CuCl/K2CO3 (1:40:0.5:2:2:2) system in DMF at 60,°C for 5,min (conditions A), however, the reaction gave low yields for various heteroaromatic compounds. Increasing the amount of phosphine ligand (conditions B) led to a significant improvement in the yield, but the conditions were still not suitable for a range of basic heteroaromatic structures. Use of the CuBr/CsF system (conditions C) also provided a result similar to that obtained under conditions B with an increased amount of the phosphine. Thus, pyridine and related heteroaromatic compounds remained less reactive substrates. The problem was overcome by replacing the DMF solvent with N -methyl-2-pyrolidinone (NMP). The reaction in NMP at 60,100,°C for 5,min using a CH3I/stannane/[Pd2(dba)3]/P(o -CH3C6H4)3/CuBr/CsF (1:40:0.5:16:2:5) combination (conditions D) gave the methylated products in yields of more than 80,% (based on the reaction of CH3I) for all of the heteroaromatic compounds listed in this study. Thus, the combined use of NMP and an increased amount of phosphine is important for promoting the reaction efficiently. The use of this general approach to rapid methylation has been well demonstrated by the synthesis of the PET tracers 2- and 3-[11C]methylpyridines by using [Pd2(dba)3]/P(o -CH3C6H4)3/CuBr/CsF (1:16:2:5) in NMP at 60,°C for 5,min, which gives the desired products in HPLC analytical yields of 88 and 91,%, respectively. [source]

Exploiting a Dual-Fluorescence Process in Fluorene,Dibenzothiophene- S,S -dioxideCo-Polymers to Give Efficient Single Polymer LEDs with Broadened Emission

ADVANCED FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS, Issue 4 2009
Simon M. King
Abstract A description of the synthesis of random (9,9-dioctylfluorene-2,7-diyl),(dibenzothiophene- S,S -dioxide-3,7-diyl) co-polymers (p(F-S)x) by palladium-catalyzed Suzuki cross-coupling polymerization where the feed ratio of the latter is varied from 2 to 30,mol % (i.e., x,=,2,30) is given. Polymer light emitting devices are fabricated with the configuration indium tin oxide/poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid)/p(F,S)x/Ba/Al. The device external quantum efficiency increased as the ratio of the S co-monomer was increased, up to a maximum of 1.3% at 100,mA cm,2 for p(F-S)30 and a brightness of 3 770,cd m,2 (at 10,V). The S units impart improved electron injection, more balanced mobilities, and markedly improved device performance compared to poly(9,9-dioctylfluorene) under similar conditions. These co-polymers display broad emission, observed as greenish-white light, which arises from dual fluorescence, viz. both local excited states and charge transfer states. Utilizing dual emission can reduce problems associated with Förster energy transfer from high-energy to-low energy excited states. [source]

Gas-phase-assisted surface polymerization of methyl methacrylate with Fe(0)/TsCl initiator system

JOURNAL OF APPLIED POLYMER SCIENCE, Issue 3 2007
Yoshito Andou
Abstract To obtain a high polymer coated Fe(0) surface, gas-phase-assisted surface polymerization (GASP) of methyl methacrylate (MMA) was investigated using a zero-valent iron (Fe(0))/p -toluene sulfonylchloride (TsCl) initiator system, resulting in successful high polymer production on the solid surface. GASP was found to be initiated by radical species that might have been generated via redox reactions with Fe(0), Fe(II), Fe(III), and TsCl. From 1H-NMR analysis, the p -toluene sulfonyl group was found at one end of the polymer chain. The molecular weight of obtained PMMA drastically decreased with increase in the composition ratio of Fe(0) in the initiator system, and increased with increase in polymer yield. From the results, it was assumed that the physically controlled polymerization of MMA proceeded by immobilized active species at gas,solid interfaces. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 103: 1879,1886, 2007 [source]

Power concavity on nonlinear parabolic flows

COMMUNICATIONS ON PURE & APPLIED MATHEMATICS, Issue 11 2005
Ki-Ahm Lee
Our object in this paper is to show that the concavity of the power of a solution is preserved in the parabolic p -Laplace equation, called power concavity, and that the power is determined by the homogeneity of the parabolic operator. In the parabolic p -Laplace equation for the density u, the concavity of u(p,2)/p is considered, which indicates why the log-concavity has been considered in heat flow, p = 2. In addition, the long time existence of the classical solution of the parabolic p -Laplacian equation can be obtained if the initial smooth data has -concavity and a nondegenerate gradient along the initial boundary. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]

Long-term effects of rapid weight gain in children, adolescents and young adults with appropriate birth weight for gestational age: the kiel obesity prevention study

ACTA PAEDIATRICA, Issue 2 2010
B Hitze
Abstract Aim:, This study investigates the effect of rapid weight gain in term children, adolescents and young adults born appropriate for gestational age. Methods:, In all, 173 girls and 178 boys aged 6.1,19.9 (12.5 ± 3.1)years participated. Rapid weight gain (group 1) was defined as a change in weight-SDS (standard deviation score) from birth till two years >0.67, ,no change' as ,,0.67 and ,0.67 (group 2) vs ,slow weight gain' as <,0.67 (group 3). BMI-SDS, waist circumference (WC) z-score, fat mass (FM)/fat free mass (FFM; Air-Displacement-Plethysmography), resting energy expenditure (REE; ventilated hood system), cardio-metabolic risk factors, serum leptin and adiponectin were assessed. >90th age-/sex-specific BMI-percentile was defined as overweight. Parental BMI, socio-economic status and lifestyle were assessed as confounders. Results:, A total of 22.8% gained weight rapidly, and 15.7% was overweight. Group 1 compared with group 2 and 3 subjects was taller, heavier and had a higher prevalence of overweight (girls/boys: 26.2%/28.9% vs 11.6%/19.0% vs 2.8%/5.0%; p < 0.01/p < 0.05). Concomitantly, a higher WC, %FM and FFM were observed. Rapid weight gain was positively associated with REE (adjusted for FFM) in boys (r = 0.26; p < 0.01), but not with cardio-metabolic risk factors. Conclusion:, Rapid weight gain was related to increases in height, weight, a higher prevalence of overweight and central fat distribution. In addition, rapid weight gain was related to a higher REE in boys, but not to cardio-metabolic risk factors. [source]

Characterization of novel sugarcane expressed sequence tag microsatellites and their comparison with genomic SSRs

PLANT BREEDING, Issue 4 2006
L. R. Pinto
Abstract Microsatellites or simple sequence repeats (SSRs) are one of the most suitable markers for genome analysis as they have great potential to aid breeders to develop new improved sugarcane varieties. The development of SSR derived from expressed sequence tags (EST) opens new opportunities for genetic investigations at a functional level. In the present work, the polymorphism obtained with a subset of 51 EST,SSRs derived from sucest was compared with those generated by 50 genomic SSRs (gSSR) in terms of number of alleles, polymorphism information content, discrimination power and their ability to establish genetic relationships among 18 sugarcane clones including three Saccharum species (S. officinarum, S. barberi, S. sinense). The majority of EST,SSRs loci had four to six alleles in contrast to the seven to nine observed for the gSSRs loci. Approximately, 35% of the gSSRs had PIC values around 0.90 in contrast to 15% of the EST,SSRs. However, the mean discrimination power of the two types of SSR did not differ significantly as much as the average genetic similarity (GS) based on Dice coefficient. The correlation between GS of the two types of SSRs was high (r = 0.71/P = 0.99) and significant. Although differences were observed between dendrograms obtained with each SSR type, both were in good agreement with pedigree information. The S. officinarum clone IJ76-314 was grouped apart from the other clones evaluated. The results here demonstrate that EST,SSRs can be successfully used for genetic relationship analysis, extending the knowledge of genetic diversity of sugarcane to a functional level. [source]

Differential in vitro CD4+/CD8+ T-cell response to live vs. killed Leishmania major

PARASITE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2010
M. NATEGHI ROSTAMI
Summary Clinical trials of killed Leishmania vaccines showed a limited efficacy compared with leishmanization (LZ). The reason for this difference in protection against cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is not known and in vivo studies on T-cell function may provide valuable information. Nevertheless, there are limited studies on the nature of the stimulatory effects of live vs. killed parasites on human T cells in vitro. A total of nine Leishmanin Skin Test+ volunteers with a history of self-healing CL (HCL) and seven healthy volunteers were included in this study. 5,6-carboxyfluroescein diacetate succinimidyl ester-labelled CD4+/CD8+ lymphocytes were cultured with killed Leishmania Lysate (Killed LL) or live Leishmania major (Live LM) and analysed for proliferation using flow cytometry. Culture supernatants were used for cytokine titration. In HCL volunteers, upon stimulation with killed LL, the number of proliferated CD4+/CD8+ cells was significantly more than that of unstimulated (P < 0·001) or live LM stimulated (P < 0·05) cells, or cells from controls (CD4+/CD8+: P < 0·05/P < 0·001). Stimulation of CD4+ cells with Live LM (P < 0·001) or Killed LL (P < 0·05) induced a significantly higher IFN-, production compared with that of controls, but Live LM induced significantly (P < 0·05) more IFN-, than Killed LL. A significantly (P < 0·05) higher IFN-, production was observed when CD8+ cells were stimulated with Live LM. Cells from HCL volunteers showed significantly more IL-10 production to Live LM stimulation compared with that of controls (CD4+: P < 0·05 /CD8+: P < 0·001) or cells stimulated with Killed LL (CD4+/CD8+: P < 0·001/P < 0·0005). Whereas Killed LL induced more proliferation response in purified T cells, Live LM induced cytokine production without significant induction of proliferation. The results from healed CL volunteers in this study could be implicated in further studies on T-cell response in vaccinated individuals. [source]

Elliptic operators with general Wentzell boundary conditions, analytic semigroups and the angle concavity theorem

MATHEMATISCHE NACHRICHTEN, Issue 4 2010
Angelo Favini
Abstract We prove a very general form of the Angle Concavity Theorem, which says that if (T (t)) defines a one parameter semigroup acting over various Lp spaces (over a fixed measure space), which is analytic in a sector of opening angle ,p, then the maximal choice for ,p is a concave function of 1 , 1/p. This and related results are applied to give improved estimates on the optimal Lp angle of ellipticity for a parabolic equation of the form ,u /,t = Au, where A is a uniformly elliptic second order partial differential operator with Wentzell or dynamic boundary conditions. Similar results are obtained for the higher order equation ,u /,t = (,1)m +lAmu, for all positive integers m. [source]

On Clarkson's inequality in the real case

MATHEMATISCHE NACHRICHTEN, Issue 12 2007
Lech Maligranda
Abstract The best constant in a generalized complex Clarkson inequality is Cp,q(,) = max {21,1/p, 21/q, 21/q ,1/p +1/2} which differs moderately from the best constant in the real case Cp,q(,) = max {21,1/p, 21/q,Bp,q}, where . For 1 < q < 2 < p < , the constant Cp,q(,) is equal to Bp,q and these numbers are difficult to calculate in general. As applications of the generalized Clarkson inequalities the (p, q)-Clarkson inequalities in Lebesgue spaces, in mixed norm spaces and in normed spaces are presented. (© 2007 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]

On the boundedness of some potential-type operators with oscillating kernels

MATHEMATISCHE NACHRICHTEN, Issue 5 2005
Denis N. Karasev
Abstract We consider a class of multidimensional potential-type operators with kernels that have singularities at the origin and on the unit sphere and that are oscillating at infinity. We describe some convex sets in the (1/p, 1/q)-plane for which these operators are bounded from Lp into Lq and indicate domains where they are not bounded. We also reveal some effects which show that oscillation and singularities of the kernels may strongly influence on the picture of boundedness of the operators under consideration. (© 2005 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]

Image analysis using p -Laplacian and geometrical PDEs

PROCEEDINGS IN APPLIED MATHEMATICS & MECHANICS, Issue 1 2007
A. KuijperArticle first published online: 29 FEB 200
Minimizing the integral ,,1/p |,L |pd , for an image L under suitable boundary conditions gives PDEs that are well-known for p = 1, 2, namely Total Variation evolution and Laplacian diffusion (also known as Gaussian scale space and heat equation), respectively. Without fixing p, one obtains a framework related to the p -Laplace equation. The partial differential equation describing the evolution can be simplified using gauge coordinates (directional derivatives), yielding an expression in the two second order gauge derivatives and the norm of the gradient. Ignoring the latter, one obtains a series of PDEs that form a weighted average of the second order derivatives, with Mean Curvature Motion as a specific case. Both methods have the Gaussian scale space in common. Using singularity theory, one can use properties of the heat equation (namely. the role of scale) in the full L (x, t) space and obtain a framework for topological image segmentation. In order to be able to extend image analysis aspects of Gaussian scale space in future work, relations between these methods are investigated, and general numerical schemes are developed. (© 2008 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim) [source]

Morphology, chemical structure and diffusion processes of root surface after Er:YAG and Nd:YAG laser irradiation

JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PERIODONTOLOGY, Issue 6 2001
B. Ga
Abstract Objectives: The aim of this in vitro study was to evaluate the effects of Er:YAG and Nd:YAG lasers on morphology, chemical structure and diffusion processes of the root surface. Material and methods: 60 root samples were irradiated for 1 min each either with 60 mJ/p, 80mJ/p and 100mJ/p using Er:YAG laser or with 0.5W, 1.0W and 1.5W using Nd:YAG laser. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to determine the morphology, infrared (IR) spectroscopy to assess the alterations in chemical structure and one dimensional electron paramagnetic resonance imaging (1-D EPRI) was used to estimate the diffusion coefficients in dental root samples. Results: Er:YAG laser treatment resulted in deep crater formation with exposed dentin. Morphological alterations of root surface after Nd:YAG laser irradiation included cracks, crater formation, meltdown of the root mineral and resolidified porous globules formation. Er:YAG laser failed to alter the intensity of Amide peaks I, II or III. In contrast, treatment with Nd:YAG laser, using the highest power setting of 1.5W, reduced the intensity of Amide peak II and III in comparison to the control. The diffusion coefficients were increased significantly in all Er:YAG and Nd:YAG treated root samples. Conclusion: This study demonstrated that Er:YAG laser influences only on morphology and diffusion processes of root surfaces, while Nd:YAG laser also alters the chemical structure of root proteins. Zusammenfassung Ziele: Das Ziel dieser in vitro Studie war es, die Wirkung von Er:YAG- und Nd:YAG-Laser auf die Morphologie, chemische Struktur und die Diffusionsprozesse zu evaluieren. Material und Methoden: 60 Proben von Wurzeln wurden für eine Minute entweder mit einem Er:YAG-Laser und 60 mJ/p, 80 mJ/p und 100 mJ/p oder einem Nd:YAGLaser und 0.5 W, 1.0 W und 1.5 W bestrahlt. Die Rasterelektronenmikroskopie (REM) wurde verwendet um die Morphologie zu bestimmen, Infrarotspektroskopie (IR) zur Messung der Veränderung in der chemischen Struktur und die eindimensionale paramagnetische Elektronenresonanz-Bildgebung (1-D EPRI) wurde verwendet um die Diffusions-Koeffizienten in den dentalen Wurzelproben abzuschätzen. Ergebnisse: Die Behandlung mit dem Er: YAG-Laser resultierte in der Ausbildung tiefer Krater mit exponiertem Dentin. Die morphologischen Veränderungen der Wurzeloberfläche nach Bestrahlung mit dem Nd: YAG-Laser waren Brüche, Kraterbildung, Aufschmelzen des Wurzelminerals und Bildung wiederverfestigter poröser Globuli. Mit dem Er:YAG-Laser gelang es nicht die Intensität der Amid-peaks I, II oder III zu verändern. Im Gegensatz dazu reduzierte die Behandlung mit dem Nd:YAG-Laser im Vergleich mit der Kontrolle bei der höchsten Leistungseinstellung von 1.5 W die Intensität der Amid-Peaks II und III. In allen mit Er: YAG und Nd:YAG behandelten Wurzelproben waren die Wurzeldiffusionskoeffizienten signifikant erhöht. Schlussfolgerung: Diese Studie demonstrierte, dass der Er:YAG-Laser nur die Morphologie und die Diffusionsprozesse der Wurzeloberfläche beeinflusst, während der Nd: YAG-Laser auch die chemische Struktur der Wurzelproteine verändert. Résumé Morphologie, structure chimique et processus de diffusion de surfaces radiculaires après irradiation au lasers Er:YAG et Nd:YAG But: Le but de cette étude in vitro était d'évaluer les effets des lasers Er:YAG et Nd:YAG sur la morphologie, la structure chimique et les processus de diffusion des surfaces radiculaires. Matériaux et méthodes: 60 échantillons de racines furent irradiés pendant 1 min chacun par 60 mJ/p, 80 mJ/p et 100 mJ/p avec le laser Er:YAG ou par 0.5 W, 1.0 W et 1.5 W avec le laser Nd:YAG. La microscopie électronique à balayage (SEM) a été utilisée pour déterminer la morphologie, la spectroscopie infra rouge pour mettre en évidence les altérations de la structure chimique et l'imagerie en une dimension par résonnance magnétique électronique (1-DEPRI) fut utilisée pour estimer les coefficients de diffusion dans les échantillons de racines dentaires. Résultats: Le traitement au laser Er:YAG entrainait la formation de cratères profonds avec de la detine exposée. Les altérations morphologiques de la surface radiculaire après irradiation au laser Nd:YAG prenaient la forme de félures, de cratères, fusion du minéral radiculaire et formation de globules poreux resolidifiés. Le laser Er:YAG n'arrivait pas à altérer l'intensité des pics Amide I, II our III. Au contraire, le traitement au laser Nd:YAG, en utilisant la plus haute puissance de 1.5 W, réduisait l'intensité des pics Amide II et III, par rapport au contrôle. Les coefficients de diffusion étaient significativement augmentés pour toutes les racines traitées par les lasers Er:YAG et Nd:YAG. Conclusions: Cette étude démontre que le laser Er:YAG a une influence sur seulement la morphologie et les processus de diffusion des surfaces radiculaires alors que le laser Nd:YAG modifie également la structure chinique des protéines radiculaires. [source]

Scope and Limitations of Pd2(dba)3/P (i-BuNCH2CH2)3N-Catalyzed Buchwald,Hartwig Amination Reactions of Aryl Chlorides.

CHEMINFORM, Issue 20 2005
Sameer Urgaonkar
Abstract For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text. [source]

Morphology, chemical structure and diffusion processes of root surface after Er:YAG and Nd:YAG laser irradiation

Anterior,posterior patterning of neural differentiated embryonic stem cells by canonical Wnts, Fgfs, Bmp4 and their respective antagonists

DEVELOPMENT GROWTH & DIFFERENTIATION, Issue 8 2009
Marijke Hendrickx
Embryonic stem (ES) cells are pluripotent and can differentiate into every cell type of the body. Next to their potential in regenerative medicine, they are excellent tools to study embryonic development. In this work the processes of neural induction and neural patterning along the antero-posterior (A/P) body axis are studied and evidence suggests a two step mechanism for these events. First, neural induction occurs by default in the primitive ectoderm, forming anterior neural tissue and thereafter, a series of factors can posteriorize this anterior neurectoderm. In a gain-of-function/loss-of-function approach using mouse ES cells, we show that Fgf2 has the strongest caudalizing potential of all Fgfs tested. Furthermore, Bmp4 and Wnt3a, but not Wnt1, can caudalize the neurectodermal cells. The effect of the antagonists of these factors was also examined and though Dkk1 and Noggin clearly have an effect that opposes that of Wnt3a and Bmp4 respectively, they fail to anteriorize the neurectoderm. The patterning effect of SU5402, an Fgf receptor inhibitor, was rather limited. These data confirm that in the mouse, two steps are involved in neural patterning and we show that while Fgf4, Fgf8 and Wnt1 have no strong patterning effect, Fgf2, Wnt3a and Bmp4 are strong posteriorizing factors. [source]

Effects of hay intake and feeding sequence on variables in faeces and faecal water (dry matter, pH value, organic acids, ammonia, buffering capacity) of horses

JOURNAL OF ANIMAL PHYSIOLOGY AND NUTRITION, Issue 1-2 2004
A. Zeyner
Summary To investigate effects of hay intake and feeding sequence on indicators of the microbial activity within the hindgut, six horses were fed 1.00 kg oats plus 0.50, 0.67, 0.83 or 1.00 kg hay/100 kg body weight (BW) × day, each for 14 days. Oats was offered either 30 min prior to hay (OA) or in the reversed sequence (HA) in a 2 × 8-week crossover design. Because typically exercised horses should be subjected to the study, faeces was used as substrate. Faecal dry matter (DM), the faecal waters' short-chain fatty acids (SCFA, in mmol/l) and molar percentages (mol%) of propionate and iso-butyrate were highest with OA (p < 0.01). Acetate mol%, acetate,propionate quotient (A/P) and buffering capacities 1 and 2 (BC1: current pH to pH 6; BC2: pH 6 to 5) of the faecal water were highest with HA (p < 0.01). While the hay intake rose, faecal pH, acetate mol%, A/P, BC1 and BC2 (the latter with HA only) increased (p < 0.05), but DM, SCFA and propionate mol% declined (p < 0.05). The hay-induced rise in A/P and BC1 was much higher with HA than with OA. l -Lactate and ammonia were unaffected by the feeding sequence and hay intake. In conclusion, hay intake and feeding sequence influence the microbial activity within the hindgut, although the concentrate level remains consistent. In horse rations with 1.00 kg oats/100 kg BW × day amounts of at least 0.83 kg hay/100 kg BW × day and offering the hay first seem to have the potency to protect the hindgut content from acidification. Behavioural abnormality was not observed any longer first with 1.00 kg hay/100 kg BW × day. [source]

Estimation of the relative antiinflammatory efficacies of six commercial preparations of Harpagophytum procumbens (Devil's Claw)

PHYTOTHERAPY RESEARCH, Issue 3 2010
Nassima Abdelouahab Ouitas
Abstract The current work compared the relative efficacies of six commercial formulations of H. procumbens. Each formulation was assayed for the content of harpagoside (1), harpagide (2), verbascoside (3) and 8- O-p -coumaroyl harpagide (4) and, based on the recommended dosages, the total daily amounts were determined and used to establish anti-/proinflammatory (A/P) factors. The formulations were compared using ex vivo porcine skin for their activities towards COX-2 by Western blotting. The results showed great variation in the amounts of compounds 1,4 within the six formulations examined. The relative proportions of 1,4 also varied widely between the products and this inconsistency was reflected in the A/P factors, which correlated with the COX-2 expression (R2 = 0.9496). Although the data support the beneficial antiinflammatory effects from the use of some of the brands tested, others would appear potentially to exacerbate inflammation. To conclude, a ratio based upon the amount and relative proportions of anti- and proinflammatory compounds can be used to predict relative antiinflammatory properties. Also, with access to a diversity of ostensibly similar commercial products, the patient may experience varying therapeutic responses. Finally, current pharmacopoeia monographs, which are generally concerned with a minimum harpagoside content, are inadequate for ensuring the quality of products based on H. procumbens. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Quantifying Mental Foramen Position in Extant Hominoids and Australopithecus: Implications for its Use in Studies of Human Evolution

THE ANATOMICAL RECORD : ADVANCES IN INTEGRATIVE ANATOMY AND EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY, Issue 8 2010
Chris A. Robinson
Abstract The location of the mental foramen on the mandibular corpus has figured prominently in debates concerning the taxonomy of fossil hominins and Gorilla gorilla. In this study we quantify the antero/posterior (A/P) position of the mental foramen across great apes, modern humans and Australopithecus. Contrary to most qualitative assessments, we find significant differences between some extant hominoid species in mental foramen A/P position supporting its potential usefulness as a character for taxonomic and phylogenetic analyses of fossil hominoids. Gorilla gorilla, particularly the eastern subspecies, with a comparatively longer dental arcade and fossil and extant hominins with reduced canines and incisors tend to exhibit more anteriorly positioned mental foramina. Conversely, Pan troglodytes exhibits more posteriorly positioned mental foramina. Variation in this character among Gorilla gorilla subspecies supports recent taxonomic assessments that separate eastern and western populations. In all taxa other than Pan troglodytes the A/P position of the mental foramen is positively allometric with respect to dental arcade length. Thus, within each of these species, specimens with longer dental arcades tend to have more posteriorly positioned mental foramina. Those species with greater sexual dimorphism in canine size and dental arcade length (i.e., Gorilla gorilla and Pongo pygmaeus) exhibit more extreme differences between smaller and larger individuals. Moreover, among great apes those individuals with greater anterior convergence of the dental arcade tend to exhibit more posteriorly positioned mental foramina. Dental arcade length, canine crown area and anterior convergence are all significantly associated with mental foramen A/P position, suggesting that these traits may influence taxonomic variation in the A/P position of the mental foramen. Anat Rec 293:1337,1349, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Distribution of ifosfamide and metabolites between plasma and erythrocytes

BIOPHARMACEUTICS AND DRUG DISPOSITION, Issue 3 2001
T. Kerbusch
Abstract The distribution of ifosfamide (IF) and its metabolites 2-dechloroethylifosfamide (2DCE), 3-dechloroethylifosfamide (3DCE), 4-hydroxyifosfamide (4OHIF) and ifosforamide mustard (IFM) between plasma and erythrocytes was examined in vitro and in vivo. In vitro distribution was investigated by incubating blood with various concentrations of IF and its metabolites. In vivo distribution of IF, 2DCE, 3DCE and 4OHIF was determined in 7 patients receiving 9 g/m2/72 h intravenous continuous IF infusion. In vitro distribution equilibrium between erythrocytes and plasma was obtained quickly after drug addition. Mean (±sem) in vitro and in vivo erythrocyte (e),plasma (p) partition coefficients (Pe/p) were 0.75±0.01 and 0.81±0.03, 0.62±0.09 and 0.73±0.05, 0.76±0.10 and 0.93±0.05 and 1.38±0.04 and 0.98±0.09 for IF, 2DCE, 3DCE and 4OHIF, respectively. These ratios were independent of concentration and unaltered with time. The ratios of the area under the erythrocyte and plasma concentration--time curves (AUCe/p) were 0.96±0.03, 0.87±0.07, 0.98±0.06 and 1.34±0.39, respectively. A time- and concentration-dependent distribution--equilibrium phenomenon was observed with the relative hydrophilic IFM. It is concluded that IF and metabolites rapidly reach distribution equilibrium between erythrocytes and plasma; the process is slower for IFM. Drug distribution to the erythrocyte fraction ranged from about 38% for 2DCE to 58% for 4OHIF, and was stable over a wide range of clinically relevant concentrations. A strong parallelism in the erythrocyte and plasma concentration profiles was observed for all compounds. Thus, pharmacokinetic assessment using only plasma sampling yields direct and accurate insights into the whole blood kinetics of IF and metabolites and may be used for pharmacokinetic,pharmacodynamic studies. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Investigation of the potential pharmacokinetic and pharmaco-dynamic drug interaction between AHN 1-055, a potent benztropine analog used for cocaine abuse, and cocaine after dosing in rats using intracerebral microdialysis

BIOPHARMACEUTICS AND DRUG DISPOSITION, Issue 5 2006
Sangeeta Raje
Abstract Purpose. AHN 1-055, a benztropine (BZT) analog, binds with high affinity to the dopamine transporter (DAT), possesses behavioral, pharmacokinetic (PK) and brain microdialysate dopamine (DA) profiles distinct from cocaine. Accordingly, the objectives of this study were to evaluate the pharmacokinetics and dopamine release of AHN 1-055, in the presence of cocaine. Methods. Male Sprague Dawley rats (,300 g) were administered 5 mg/kg of AHN 1-055 and cocaine i.v. and blood and brain samples were collected over 36 h. In addition, dialysis probes were stereotaxically implanted into the nucleus accumbens and extracellular fluid (ECF) DA levels were measured. PK and PD models were used to describe the relationship between the AHN 1-055, cocaine and DA levels. Results. No significant (p<0.05) differences were found in the PK parameters of AHN 1-055 alone (Vdss=18.7 l/kg, Cl=1.8 l/h/kg and t1/2=7.69 h) or AHN 1-055 with cocaine (Vdss=17.4 l/kg, Cl=1.9 l/h/kg and t1/2=6.82 h). The brain-to-plasma (B/P) ratios (B/PAHN 1,055=4.8 vs B/Pwith cocaine=4.4) and half-lives (t1/2(AHN 1,055)=6.2 h vs t1/2(cocaine)=5.6 h for AHN 1-055 alone and with cocaine were comparable. AHN 1-055 DA profiles were significantly different after co-administration with cocaine. There were no differences in the IC50 for AHN 1-055, with cocaine, however, the IC50 for cocaine was significantly reduced with AHN 1-055. Conclusions. The PK parameters of AHN 1-055 were not changed, however, the effect on DA levels was affected when cocaine was administered with AHNDA profile is affected when dosed with cocaine. This latter effect is a desirable attribute in the development of a medication as a potential substitute therapeutic medication for the treatment of cocaine abuse. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

Effect of dose and input rate on the brain penetration of BMS-204352 following intravenous administration to rats

BIOPHARMACEUTICS AND DRUG DISPOSITION, Issue 6 2002
Rajesh Krishna
Abstract BMS-204352 is a novel maxi-K channel opener that is being developed for the treatment for stroke. The current study was designed to evaluate the plasma and brain pharmacokinetics of BMS-204352 in rats, in particular, assessing the effect of dose and input rate on brain penetration of BMS-204352. Rats (3 animals/group/time point) received a single intravenous dose of BMS-204352 as 5 mg/kg bolus, 5 mg/kg 30 min infusion, 5 mg/kg 60 min infusion, and 10 mg/kg bolus dose, into the jugular vein. Terminal blood (for plasma) and brain samples were collected for up to 9 h post-dose and samples were analyzed for the concentrations of intact BMS-204352 using a validated liquid chromatographic tandem mass spectrometric method (LC/MS/MS). As dose increased from 5 to 10 mg/kg, both BMS-204352 Cmax and AUC values increased in plasma and brain, somewhat greater in proportion to the increment in dose. Whereas the peak concentrations of BMS-204352 were affected by infusion time, overall AUCs were comparable across the bolus and infusion groups. Terminal disposition (T -half ranged from 1.6 to 2.7 h) of BMS-204352 was unaltered as a function of input rate. BMS-204352 crossed the blood,brain barrier with brain-to-plasma (B/P) ratios of approximately 7,11. Brain-to-plasma ratios appeared to be independent of dose and infusions produced somewhat higher brain penetration (B/P of ca. 11) as compared to bolus (B/P of ca. 7,8) dose. The decline of BMS-204352 in the brain paralleled that of plasma independent of the input rate and dose. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source]

The Ratios of Carbon, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus in a Wetland Coastal Ecosystem of Southern India

INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF HYDROBIOLOGY, Issue 2 2003
Lizen Mathews
Abstract The fertility of the coastal and estuarine waters is of great concern because of its influence on the productivity of these waters. Seasonal variations in the distribution of organic carbon, total nitrogen and total phosphorus in the sediments of Kuttanad Waters, a part of the tropical Cochin Estuary on the south west coast of India, are examined to identify the contribution of sediments to the fertility of the aquatic systems. The adjoining region has considerable agricultural activity. The fresh water zones had higher quantities of silt and clay whereas the estuarine zone was more sandy. Organic carbon, total phosphorus and total nitrogen were higher in the fresh water zones and lower in the estuarine zones. Total phosphorus and organic carbon showed the lowest values during monsoon periods. No significant trends were observed in the seasonal distributions of total nitrogen. Ratios of C/N, C/P and N/P, and the phosphorus and nitrogen content indicate significant modification in the character of the organic matter. Substantial amounts of the organic matter can contribute to reducing conditions and modify diagenetic processes. [source]

Noise exposures aboard catcher/processor fishing vessels

AMERICAN JOURNAL OF INDUSTRIAL MEDICINE, Issue 8 2006
Richard L. Neitzel MS
Abstract Background Commercial fishing workers have extended work shifts and potential for 24 hr exposures to high noise. However, exposures in this industry have not been adequately characterized. Methods Noise exposures aboard two catcher/processors (C/P) were assessed using dosimetry, sound-level mapping, and self-reported activities and hearing protection device (HPD) use. These data were combined to estimate work shift, non-work, and 24 hr overall exposure levels using several metrics. The length of time during which HPDs were worn was also used to calculate the effective protection received by crew members. Results Nearly all workers had work shift and 24 hr noise levels that exceeded the relevant limits. After HPD use was accounted for, half of the 24 hr exposures remained above relevant limits. Non-work-shift noise contributed nothing to 24 hr exposure levels. HPDs reduced the average exposure by about 10 dBA, but not all workers wore them consistently. Conclusions The primary risk of hearing loss aboard the monitored vessels comes from work shift noise. Smaller vessels or vessels with different layouts may present more risk of hearing damage from non-work periods. Additional efforts are needed to increase use of HPDs or implement noise controls. Am. J. Ind. Med. 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Differential parental transmission of markers in RUNX2 among cleft case-parent trios from four populations

GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 6 2008
Jae Woong Sull
Abstract Isolated cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is among the most common human birth defects, with a prevalence around 1 in 700 live births. The Runt-related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2) gene has been suggested as a candidate gene for CL/P based largely on mouse models; however, no human studies have focused on RUNX2 as a risk factor for CL/P. This study examines the association between markers in RUNX2 and isolated, nonsyndromic CL/P using a case-parent trio design, while considering parent-of-origin effects. Case-parent trios from four populations (77 from Maryland, 146 from Taiwan, 35 from Singapore, and 40 from Korea) were genotyped for 24 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the RUNX2 gene. We performed the transmission disequilibrium test on individual SNPs. Parent-of-origin effects were assessed using the transmission asymmetry test and the parent-of-origin likelihood ratio test (PO-LRT). When all trios were combined, the transmission asymmetry test revealed a block of 11 SNPs showing excess maternal transmission significant at the P<0.01 level, plus one SNP (rs1934328) showing excess paternal transmission (P=0.002). For the 11 SNPs showing excess maternal transmission, odds ratios of being transmitted to the case from the mother ranged between 3.00 and 4.00. The parent-of-origin likelihood ratio tests for equality of maternal and paternal transmission were significant for three individual SNPs (rs910586, rs2819861, and rs1934328). Thus, RUNX2 appears to influence risk of CL/P through a parent-of-origin effect with excess maternal transmission. Genet. Epidemiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Genetic variants in IRF6 and the risk of facial clefts: single-marker and haplotype-based analyses in a population-based case-control study of facial clefts in Norway

GENETIC EPIDEMIOLOGY, Issue 5 2008
Astanand Jugessur
Abstract Mutations in the gene encoding interferon regulatory factor 6 (IRF6) underlie a common form of syndromic clefting known as Van der Woude syndrome. Lip pits and missing teeth are the only additional features distinguishing the syndrome from isolated clefts. Van der Woude syndrome, therefore, provides an excellent model for studying the isolated forms of clefting. From a population-based case-control study of facial clefts in Norway (1996,2001), we selected 377 cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P), 196 cleft palate only (CPO), and 763 control infant-parent triads for analysis. We genotyped six single nucleotide polymorphisms within the IRF6 locus and estimated the relative risks (RR) conferred on the child by alleles and haplotypes of the child and of the mother. On the whole, there were strong statistical associations with CL/P but not CPO in our data. In single-marker analyses, mothers with a double-dose of the ,a'-allele at rs4844880 had an increased risk of having a child with CL/P (RR=1.85, 95% confidence interval: 1.04,3.25; P=0.036). An RR of 0.38 (95% confidence interval: 0.16,0.92; P=0.031) was obtained when the child carried a single-dose of the ,a'-allele at rs2235371 (the p.V274I polymorphism). The P -value for the overall test was <0.001. In haplotype analyses, several of the fetal and maternal haplotype relative risks were statistically significant individually but were not strong enough to show up on the overall test (P=0.113). Taken together, these findings further support a role for IRF6 variants in clefting of the lip and provide specific risk estimates in a Norwegian population. Genet. Epidemiol. 2008. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Study of four genes belonging to the folate pathway: transcobalamin 2 is involved in the onset of non-syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate,,

HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 3 2006
Marcella Martinelli
Abstract Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is the most common inborn craniofacial anomaly. Affected individuals require extensive medical and psychosocial support. Although CL/P has a complex and poorly understood etiology, increasing evidence of folate pathway involvement has been collected. So far, only the MTHFR gene has been extensively investigated as a risk factor for CL/P, while little has been done to test genetic variations in the folate biosynthetic pathways that may influence the infant's susceptibility to these birth defects. To date, this paper presents the first attempt to verify the involvement of four genes belonging to the folate pathway in nonsyndromic cleft onset. We used a case-parent triad design to test for linkage disequilibrium in the case of seven SNPs mapping on four different genes: transcobalamin 1 and 2 (TCN1 and TCN2), methionine synthase (MTR), and MTR reductase (MTRR). Our finding suggests that TCN2 is involved in causing CL/P. Indeed, significant overtransmission of the C allele was observed at the polymorphism c.776C>G (p.Pro259Arg) to the affected offspring (P=0.01). Results obtained with additional TCN2 polymorphisms suggest that c.776C>G may be functionally related to CL/P. However, because conflicting data exist with regard to the effect of the polymorphism in transcobalamin 2 function or in perturbing plasma levels of key molecules in the folate pathway, further investigation is warranted to confirm our data. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Maternal MTHFR variant forms increase the risk in offspring of isolated nonsyndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate,,

HUMAN MUTATION, Issue 1 2004
F. Pezzetti
Abstract The pathogenesis of cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is complex; its onset could be due to the interaction of various genetic and environmental factors. Recently MTHFR functional polymorphisms were found to increase the risk of this common malformation; however, this finding is still debated. We investigated 110 sporadic CL/P patients, their parents and 289 unrelated controls for c.665C>T (commonly known as 677C>T; p.Ala222Val) and c.1286A>C (known as 1298A>C; p.Glu429Ala) polymorphism in the MTHFR gene. Transmission disequilibrium test (TDT) showed no distortion in allele transmission. Nevertheless, association studies revealed significant differences in allele frequencies between mothers of CL/P patients and controls. This work supports the hypothesis that a lower MTHFR enzyme activity in pregnant women, mostly related to the c.665C>T variant form, is responsible for a higher risk of having CL/P affected offspring. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source]

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate and dermatoglyphic asymmetry: evaluation of a Chinese population

ORTHODONTICS & CRANIOFACIAL RESEARCH, Issue 3 2002
K Neiswanger
Structured Abstract Authors , Neiswanger K, Cooper ME, Weinberg SM, Flodman P, Bundens Keglovits A, Liu Y, Hu D-N, Melnick M, Spence MA, Marazita ML Objective , To determine if Chinese individuals with non syndromic cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) display more dermatoglyphic asymmetry than unaffected relatives or controls. Design , Case , control study with two control groups (genetically related and unrelated). Setting and Sample Population , A total of 500 CL/P probands from Shanghai, China, 421 unaffected relatives, and 66 controls of Chinese heritage. Methods , Finger and palm prints were collected, and pattern frequencies, total ridge counts (TRC), and atd angles were calculated. Asymmetry scores between right and left hands were defined for each of the three dermatoglyphic measures. Probands' asymmetry scores were compared statistically with the scores of unaffected relatives and controls. Results , In general, the probands' asymmetry scores for TRC and atd angle did not differ significantly from the scores of either unaffected relatives or controls. However, probands with a positive family history of clefting showed significantly more asymmetry in their pattern types than either probands without a family history, unaffected relatives or controls. Conclusion , These results suggest that a unique genetic mechanism of developmental instability may obtain in CL/P individuals with a positive family history of clefting. [source]