Pharmacokinetics and bioequivalence of tofacitinib 5 mg in healthy Korean male subjects

OBJECTIVE

Tofacitinib is an oral Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitor marketed as an immunomodulator that can effectively treat rheumatoid arthritis. This study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetics and evaluate the bioequivalence of tofacitinib free base (CKD-374) with those of tofacitinib citrate (Xeljanz).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized, open-label, single-dose, 2-sequence, 2-period crossover study was conducted in healthy Korean male subjects. A total of 36 subjects were randomized into two sequence groups. At each period, subjects were administered the test formulation (tofacitinib free base, 5 mg) or the reference formulation (tofacitinib citrate, 8.078 mg; as tofacitinib, 5 mg). The plasma samples were collected up to 12 hours post dose and analyzed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Pharmacokinetic parameters, including maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) and area under the plasma concentration vs. time curve from dosing to the last measurable concentration (AUC0-t), were determined by non-compartmental analysis. The 90% confidence intervals (CIs) of the geometric mean ratios for Cmax and AUC0-t were calculated to evaluate pharmacokinetic equivalence.

RESULTS

The 90% CIs of the geometric mean ratios of Cmax and AUC0-t for tofacitinib free base to tofacitinib citrate were 0.9144 - 1.1230 and 1.0245 - 1.0932, respectively. All reported adverse events were of mild intensity, and there were no serious adverse events.

CONCLUSION

In healthy Korean male adult subjects, the pharmacokinetic parameters of tofacitinib free base and tofacitinib citrate were evaluated and met the pharmacokinetic bioequivalent criteria. Both formulations were safe and well-tolerated.

The mechanical characteristics and performance evaluation of a newly developed silicone airway stent (GINA stent)

Central airway obstruction (CAO) can be attributed to several benign or malignant conditions. Although surgery is the preferred therapeutic option for the management of CAO, bronchoscopic treatment can be performed in scenarios where the surgical procedure is not possible. Recent years have witnessed several improvements in the field of bronchoscopic treatment, especially with regard to airway stents. Current research involves new attempts to overcome the existing shortcomings pertaining to the stents (migration, mucostasis, and granulation tissue formation). The authors have recently developed a new silicone airway stent (GINA stent) with an anti-migration design, dynamic structure that enables the reduction of stent cross-sectional area, and radio-opacity. The present study aimed to evaluate the mechanical characteristics and performance of the novel GINA stent using a porcine tracheal stenosis model. In the current study, all the tests involved the comparison of the GINA stent [outer diameter (OD, mm): 14; length (L, mm): 55] with the Dumon stent (OD: 14; L: 50). The mechanical tests were performed using a digital force gauge, in order to determine the anti-migration force, expansion force, and flexibility. The present study evaluated the short-term (3 weeks) performance of the two stents after implantation [GINA (n = 4) vs. Dumon (n = 3)] in the porcine tracheal stenosis model. The results pertaining to the comparison of the mechanical properties of the GINA and Dumon stents are stated as follows: anti-migration force (18.4 vs. 12.8 N, P = 0.008); expansion force (11.9 vs. 14.5 N, P = 0.008); and flexibility (3.1 vs. 4.5 N, P = 0.008). The results pertaining to the comparison of the short-term performance of the GINA and Dumon stents are stated as follows: mucus retention (0/4 vs. 0/3); granulation tissue formation (0/4 vs. 0/3); and migration (1/4 vs. 2/3). The GINA stent displayed better mechanical properties and comparable short-term performance, compared to the Dumon stent.

Nuclear F-actin Cytology in Oral Epithelial Dysplasia and Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Oral cavity cancer has a low 5-y survival rate, but outcomes improve when the disease is detected early. Cytology is a less invasive method to assess oral potentially malignant disorders relative to the gold-standard scalpel biopsy and histopathology. In this report, we aimed to determine the utility of cytological signatures, including nuclear F-actin cell phenotypes, for classifying the entire spectrum of oral epithelial dysplasia and oral squamous cell carcinoma. We enrolled subjects with oral potentially malignant disorders, subjects with previously diagnosed malignant lesions, and healthy volunteers without lesions and obtained brush cytology specimens and matched scalpel biopsies from 486 subjects. Histopathological assessment of the scalpel biopsy specimens classified lesions into 6 categories. Brush cytology specimens were analyzed by machine learning classifiers trained to identify relevant cytological features. Multimodal diagnostic models were developed using cytology results, lesion characteristics, and risk factors. Squamous cells with nuclear F-actin staining were associated with early disease (i.e., lower proportions in benign lesions than in more severe lesions), whereas small round parabasal-like cells and leukocytes were associated with late disease (i.e., higher proportions in severe dysplasia and carcinoma than in less severe lesions). Lesions with the impression of oral lichen planus were unlikely to be either dysplastic or malignant. Cytological features substantially improved upon lesion appearance and risk factors in predicting squamous cell carcinoma. Diagnostic models accurately discriminated early and late disease with AUCs (95% CI) of 0.82 (0.77 to 0.87) and 0.93 (0.88 to 0.97), respectively. The cytological features identified here have the potential to improve screening and surveillance of the entire spectrum of oral potentially malignant disorders in multiple care settings.

Planning considerations prior to laryngectomy for a patient infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 pre-operatively

BACKGROUND

Coronavirus disease 2019 was declared a pandemic on 11th March 2020. All non-urgent surgical procedures have been postponed indefinitely. The British Association of Head and Neck Oncology state that only those with treatable head and neck cancer unsuitable for alternative treatment should undergo surgery. This paper details our management of a patient who tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 days before curative surgery for laryngeal cancer.

CASE REPORT

By following British Association of Head and Neck Oncology guidance, a 49-year-old male scheduled for total laryngectomy and bilateral neck dissection for a T3 transglottic squamous cell cancer was pre-operatively identified as an asymptomatic carrier of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2. Following 14-day isolation and laboratory proven viral clearance, he underwent successful major surgery. He was managed throughout the peri- and post-operative phases without complications or adverse effects on staff.

CONCLUSION

With careful planning, previous coronavirus disease 2019 positive status should not prevent an individual from undergoing successful total laryngectomy and bilateral neck dissection in a safe and timely manner during the pandemic.

Constituents from Solidago virgaurea var. gigantea and their inhibitory effect on lipid accumulation

In this study, the anti-adipogenic activities of compounds isolated from Solidago viraurea var. gigantea (SG) extracts were investigated using Oil Red O staining in the 3T3-L1 cell line. Four known compounds including 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid (5), protocatechuic acid (6), chlorogenic acid (7), and kaempferol-3-O-rutinoside (8), and four undescribed compounds including (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-methyl 7-((cinnamoyloxy)methyl)-2,3-dihydroxy-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylate (1), (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-methyl 2,3-dihydroxy-7-((((Z)-3-phenylacryloyl)oxy)methyl)-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylate (2), (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-2,3-dihydroxy-7-((((Z)-3-phenylacryloyl)oxy)methyl)-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylic acid (3), and (1R,2S,3S,5R,7S)-7-((cinnamoyloxy)methyl)-2,3-dihydroxy-6,8-dioxabicyclo[3.2.1]octane-5-carboxylic acid (4) were isolated from S. viraurea var. gigantea. The structures of the compounds were first identified by comparing their ¹H NMR spectra with spectral data from the literature and a more detailed identification was then performed using 2D NMR (Correlated spectroscopy (COSY), heteronuclear single quantum correlation (HSQC), heteronuclear multiple bond correlation (HMBC), and nuclear overhauser spectroscopy (NOESY)), and X-ray crystallography analyses. The anti-adipogenic activities of all compounds were evaluated by MTT assay and Oil Red O staining in 3T3-L1 cells. 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid was found to inhibit lipid accumulation more potently than the other tested compounds.

Rescue of PB-resistant neonatal seizures with single-dose of small-molecule TrkB antagonist show long-term benefits

A recently characterized CD-1 mouse model of phenobarbital (PB)-resistant neonatal ischemic-seizures (i.e.; unilateral carotid ligation) was shown to be associated with age-dependent (P7 vs. P10) acute seizure severity and PB-efficacy (i.e.; PB-resistant vs. PB-responsive). ANA12, a novel small-molecule TrkB antagonist, rescued the PB-resistance at P7 in a dose-dependent manner and prevented the post-ischemic downregulation of KCC2, the chief Cl^- extruder in neurons. The long-term consequences of this novel rescue-intervention with ANA12 + PB in P7 and P10 ligated pups was investigated and compared to the standard first-line protocol of PB-alone loading dose. The mice underwent neurobehavioral testing, 24 h video-EEG-EMG monitoring, and immunohistochemistry in ipsi- and contralateral cortices as adults following the neonatal interventions. ANA12 + PB rescued the emergence of hyperactivity in post-ischemic P7, but not in P10 pups as adults. ANA12 + PB administration at neither P7 nor P10 significantly altered 24 h macro-sleep architecture in adults when compared to PB-alone. Behavioral state-dependent gamma (35-50 Hz) power homeostasis showed the most significant between-group differences that were age-dependent. ANA12 + PB treatment, but not PB-alone, rescued the loss of gamma power homeostasis present in P7 ligate-control but absent in P10 ligate group, highlighting the age-dependence. In contrast, PB-alone treatment, but not ANA12+PB, significantly reduced the elevated delta-AUC observed in P10 ligate-controls, when PB is efficacious by itself. These results indicate that the rescue of acute PB-resistant neonatal seizures using a novel intervention positively modulates the long-term outcomes at P7 when the seizures are refractory.

Crystal structure of bis[2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl-κN 3)aniline-κN]bis(nitrato-κO)cadmium(II)

The synthesis and crystal structure of the title 2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)aniline Cd^II complex is reported in which the Cd^II atom lies on a twofold rotation axis and is coordinated by four N atoms, provided by two bidentate 2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)aniline ligands, and two nitrato O atoms, forming a distorted octa­hedral geometry.

In the title compound, [Cd(NO₃)₂(C₁₃H₁₁N₃)₂], the Cd^II atom lies on a twofold rotation axis and is coordinated by four N atoms and two O atoms, provided by two bidentate 2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)aniline ligands, and two nitrato O atoms, forming a distorted octa­hedral geometry [range of bond angles around the Cd atom = 73.82 (2)–106.95 (8)°]. In the ligand, the dihedral angle between the aniline ring and the benzimidazole ring system is 30.43 (7)°. The discrete complex mol­ecule is stabilized by an intra­molecular N—H⋯O hydrogen bond. In the crystal, inter­molecular N—H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the mol­ecules, forming a three-dimensional network.

Sleep dysfunction following neonatal ischemic seizures are differential by neonatal age of insult as determined by qEEG in a mouse model

Neonatal seizures associated with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) pose a challenge in their acute clinical management and are often followed by long-term neurological consequences. We used a newly characterized CD-1 mouse model of neonatal ischemic seizures associated with age-dependent (P7 vs. P10) seizure severity and phenobarbital efficacy (i.e.; PB-resistant vs. PB-efficacious respectively) following unilateral carotid ligation. The long-term consequences following untreated neonatal seizures in P7 vs. P10 ligated pups were investigated using neurobehavioral testing, 24 h v- quantitative EEG -EMG (qEEG, qEMG), and western blot analyses in adult mice. Significant hyperactivity emerged in a small sub-set of mice in both age-groups associated with a failure to habituate during open-field (OF) testing. 24 h continuous qEEGs detected significantly altered sleep architecture due to long-wake cycles in both age-groups. Delta power (0.5-4 Hz) quantification during slow-wave-sleep (SWS) revealed significant SWS compensation in P10 ligates following periods of increased sleep pressure which the P7 ligate group failed to show. Theta/beta ratios deemed as negative correlation markers of attentional control were significantly higher only in the P10 ligates. These results indicate that neonatal age-dependent differences in the characteristics of ischemic neonatal seizures in CD-1 pups differentially modulate long-term outcomes, when evaluated with v-qEEG/EMG as adults.

Crystal structure of 2,3-bis-(4-methyl-phen-yl)benzo[g]quinoxaline

The title compound, C26H20N2, was obtained during a search for new π-extended ligands with the potential to generate efficient phosphors with iridium(III) for organic light-emitting devices (OLEDs). The benzoquinoxaline ring system is almost planar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.076 Å). A pseudo-twofold rotation axis runs through the midpoints of the C2-C3 and C9-C10 bonds. The two phenyl rings are twisted relative to the benzoquinoxaline ring system, making dihedral angles of 53.91 (4) and 36.86 (6)°. In the crystal, C-H⋯π (arene) inter-actions link the mol-ecules, but no π-π inter-actions between aromatic rings are observed.

Isolation, characterization, and in silico, in vitro and in vivo antiulcer studies of isoimperatorin crystallized from Ostericum koreanum

CONTEXT

Ostericum koreanum (Maxim.) Kitagawa (Apiaceae) roots are traditionally used as an analgesic and antiulcer agent. However, the antiulcer potential of isoimperatorin isolated from O. koreanum has not yet been explored.

AIM

To evaluate the antiulcer activity of isoimperatorin isolated from the roots of O. koreanum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Isoimperatorin was isolated as cubic crystals by repeated column chromatography of the ethyl acetate fraction and structure was verified with ¹H NMR, ¹³C NMR and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS-FAB). The crystals obtained were analyzed with the single crystal X-ray method. The MTT assay was used to determine its cytotoxicity against chondrocytes at different concentrations (0.0-737.74 μM, 24 h). The in vivo antiulcer activity of isoimperatorin (40 mg/kg) was determined against ethanol-, indomethacin- and pyloric ligation-induced ulcers in Sprague-Dawley rats. Furthermore, the effect of isoimperatorin (0.0-737.74 μM, 24 h) on the expression of type II collagen in chondrocytes was determined using western blot method. The in vitro urease inhibitory activity of isoimperatorin (0-80 μM) and molecular docking was also performed against urease.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Isoimperatorin demonstrated significant inhibitory activity (IC₅₀ 36.43 μM) against urease as compared to the standard drug thiourea (IC₅₀ 33.57 μM) without cytotoxic effects. It provided 70.9%, 67.65% and 54.25% protection in ulcer models induced by ethanol, indomethacin and pyloric ligation, respectively. Isoimperatorin showed the highest expression level of type II collagen at 368.87 μM. The docking results confirmed strong binding affinity with the target protein.

CONCLUSION

Isoimperatorin may be used to develop antiulcer drugs with decreased side effects.

Crystal structure of aqua-(1H-pyrazole-κN2)(pyridine-2,6-di-carboxyl-ato-κ3O2,N,O6)copper(II) dihydrate

In the title compound, [Cu(C7H3NO4)(C3H4N2)(H2O)]·2H2O, the CuII atom is coordinated by three O atoms and two N atoms, provided by a tridentate pyridine-2,6-di-carboxyl-ate (pdc), one pyrazole and one water ligand, forming a slightly distorted square-pyramidal geometry [range of O-Cu-O and O-Cu-N bond angles = 79.55 (8)-166.22 (10)°]. The water mol-ecule is positioned at the apical position. In the crystal, the complex mol-ecule and the two crystallographically independent non-coordinating water mol-ecules are linked into a supra-molecular layer structure parallel to the ab plane via O-H⋯O and N-H⋯O hydrogen bonds.

A multi-institutional analysis of intraoperative radiotherapy for early breast cancer: Does age matter?

BACKGROUND

Single-session intraoperative radiation therapy (IORT) minimizes treatment demands associated with traditional whole breast radiation therapy (WBRT) but outcomes on local disease control and morbidity among the elderly is limited.

METHODS

A multi-institutional retrospective registry was established from 19 centers utilizing IORT from 2007 to 2013. Patient, tumor, and treatment variables were analyzed for ages <70 and ≥70.

RESULTS

We evaluated 686 patients (<70 = 424; ≥70 = 262) who were margin and lymph node negative. Patients <70 were more likely to have longer operative time, oncoplastic closure, higher rates of IORT used as planned boost, and receive chemotherapy and post-operative WBRT. Wound complication rates were low and not significantly different between age groups. Median follow-up was 1.06 (range 0.51-1.9) years for < 70 and 1.01 (range 0.5-1.68) years for ≥ 70. There were 5 (0.73%) breast recurrences (4 in <70 and 1 ≥ 70, p = 0.65) and no axillary recurrences during follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

IORT was associated with a low rate of wound complication and local recurrence on short-term follow-up in this cohort.

Crystal structure of (3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrrol-2-yl)di-phenyl-phosphine oxide

The title compound, C18H18NOP, was obtained during a search for new P,N-containing ligands with the potential to generate precatalysts with chromium(III) for selective ethyl-ene oligomerization. In the crystal, mutual pairs of N-H⋯O=P hydrogen bonds link two mol-ecules into a dimer with individual mol-ecules related by a twofold rotation axis. The P=O bond length of 1.4740 (15) Å is not elongated although the O atom is involved in hydrogen bonding. The crystal structure is further stabilized by van der Waals inter-actions between the dimers, linking the mol-ecules into a three-dimensional network structure.

Impact of the Ratio of Visceral to Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue in Donor Nephrectomy Patients

OBJECTIVE

It was reported that a metabolic syndrome affected the remaining renal function after living donor nephrectomy. However, the measurement of waist circumference is unclear because it cannot distinguish between visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). We investigate the clinical correlation between body adipose tissue and renal function recovery after living donor nephrectomy.

METHODS

From July 2013 to February 2015, 75 living kidney donors were enrolled. The VAT and SAT were measured by preoperative computed tomography (CT) scan. Body mass index (BMI), VAT, SAT, and VAT-to-SAT ratio were analyzed according to a postoperative renal function recovery. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) was performed to predict estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m² at postoperative 6 months for BMI, VAT, SAT, and VAT-to-SAT ratio.

RESULTS

The lowest value of eGFR (57.52 ± 11.20 mL/min/1.73 m²) was measured at postoperative day 7. There was no statistically significant difference in eGFR between 1 month and 3 months. BMI, VAT, SAT, and VAT-to-SAT ratio showed a statistically significant correlation with each other (Pearson correlation, P < .05). Also, the recovery time of eGFR was correlated with VAT-to-SAT ratio; it was significant at postoperative 1, 3, and 6 months. VAT-to-SAT ratio (0.654, 95% confidence interval 0.525-0.783, P = .024) had higher predictive value in ROC.

CONCLUSION

We developed a new variable to predict the value of lower eGFR (less than 60 mL/min/1.73 m²) at a postoperative 6 months in living kidney donor. According to a CT scan, VAT-to-SAT ratio can predict renal function recovery.

Crystal structure of 2-(4-acetyl-anilino)-2-oxoethyl 3-(4-hy-droxy-phen-yl)propionate

In the title compound, C19H19NO5, the amide carbonyl O atom is positioned anti to the other two carbonyl O atoms. The 4-hy-droxy-hydro-cinnamate fragment is disordered over two positions with an occupancy ratio of 0.729 (12):0.271 (12). The N-(C=O)-C plane of the acetamide group and the acetate O-(C=O)-C plane are almost co-planar; the acetamide plane makes dihedral angles of 1.9 (6) and 16.0 (19)°, respectively, with the acetate planes of the major and minor occupancy components. In the crystal, N-H⋯O, O-H⋯O and C-H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the mol-ecules into a supra-molecular sheet structure parallel to (102).

Synthesis and crystal structures of the potential tyrosinase inhibitorsN-(4-acetylphenyl)-2-chloroacetamide and 2-(4-acetylanilino)-2-oxoethyl cinnamate

Substituted benzoic acid and cinnamic acid esters are of interest as tyrosinase inhibitors and the development of such inhibitors may help in diminishing many dermatological disorders. The tyrosinase enzyme has also been linked to Parkinson's disease. In view of hydroxylated compounds having ester and amide functionalities to potentially inhibit tyrosinase, we herein report the synthesis and crystal structures of two amide-based derivatives, namelyN-(4-acetylphenyl)-2-chloroacetamide, C10H10ClNO2, (I), and 2-(4-acetylanilino)-2-oxoethyl cinnamate, C19H17NO4, (II). In compound (I), the acetylphenyl ring and the N—(C=O)—C unit of the acetamide group are almost coplanar, with a dihedral angle of 7.39 (18)°. Instead of esterification, a cheaper and more efficient synthetic method has been developed for the preparation of compound (II). The molecular geometry of compound (II) is a V-shape. The acetamide and cinnamate groups are almost planar, with mean deviations of 0.088 and 0.046 Å, respectively; the dihedral angle between these groups is 77.39 (7)°. The carbonyl O atoms are positionedsynandantito the amide carbonyl O atom. In the crystals of (I) and (II), N—H...O, C—H...O and C—H...π interactions link the molecules into a three-dimensional network.

Body Temperature Monitoring Using Subcutaneously Implanted Thermo-loggers from Holstein Steers

Body temperature (BT) monitoring in cattle could be used to early detect fever from infectious disease or physiological events. Various ways to measure BT have been applied at different locations on cattle including rectum, reticulum, milk, subcutis and ear canal. In other to evaluate the temperature stability and reliability of subcutaneous temperature (ST) in highly fluctuating field conditions for continuous BT monitoring, long term ST profiles were collected and analyzed from cattle in autumn/winter and summer season by surgically implanted thermo-logger devices. Purposes of this study were to assess ST in the field condition as a reference BT and to determine any location effect of implantation on ST profile. In results, ST profile in cattle showed a clear circadian rhythm with daily lowest at 05:00 to 07:00 AM and highest around midnight and rather stable temperature readings (mean±standard deviation [SD], 37.1°C to 37.36°C±0.91°C to 1.02°C). STs are 1.39°C to 1.65°C lower than the rectal temperature and sometimes showed an irregular temperature drop below the normal physiologic one: 19.4% or 36.4% of 54,192 readings were below 36.5°C or 37°C, respectively. Thus, for BT monitoring purposes in a fever-alarming-system, a correction algorithm is necessary to remove the influences of ambient temperature and animal resting behavior especially in winter time. One way to do this is simply discard outlier readings below 36.5°C or 37°C resulting in a much improved mean±SD of 37.6°C±0.64°C or 37.8°C±0.55°C, respectively. For location the upper scapula region seems the most reliable and convenient site for implantation of a thermo-sensor tag in terms of relatively low influence by ambient temperature and easy insertion compared to lower scapula or lateral neck.

Acute TrkB inhibition rescues phenobarbital-resistant seizures in a mouse model of neonatal ischemia

Neonatal seizures are commonly associated with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. Phenobarbital (PB) resistance is common and poses a serious challenge in clinical management. Using a newly characterized neonatal mouse model of ischemic seizures, this study investigated a novel strategy for rescuing PB resistance. A small-molecule TrkB antagonist, ANA12, used to selectively and transiently block post-ischemic BDNF-TrkB signaling in vivo, determined whether rescuing TrkB-mediated post-ischemic degradation of the K(+)-Cl(-) co-transporter (KCC2) rescued PB-resistant seizures. The anti-seizure efficacy of ANA12 + PB was quantified by (i) electrographic seizure burden using acute continuous video-electroencephalograms and (ii) post-treatment expression levels of KCC2 and NKCC1 using Western blot analysis in postnatal day (P)7 and P10 CD1 pups with unilateral carotid ligation. ANA12 significantly rescued PB-resistant seizures at P7 and improved PB efficacy at P10. A single dose of ANA12 + PB prevented the post-ischemic degradation of KCC2 for up to 24 h. As anticipated, ANA12 by itself had no anti-seizure properties and was unable to prevent KCC2 degradation at 24 h without follow-on PB. This indicates that unsubdued seizures can independently lead to KCC2 degradation via non-TrkB-dependent pathways. This study, for the first time as a proof-of-concept, reports the potential therapeutic value of KCC2 modulation for the management of PB-resistant seizures in neonates. Future investigations are required to establish the mechanistic link between ANA12 and the prevention of KCC2 degradation.

Photoluminescence properties of a cationic trinuclear zinc(II) complex with the tetradentate Schiff base ligand 6-methyl-2-({[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]imino}methyl)phenolate

Metal complexes with Schiff base ligands have been suggested as potential phosphors in electroluminescent devices. In the title complex, tetrakis[6-methyl-2-({[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]imino}methyl)phenolato-1:2κ(8)N,N',O:O;3:2κ(8)N,N',O:O]trizinc(II) hexafluoridophosphate methanol monosolvate, [Zn3(C14H13N2O)4](PF6)2·CH3OH, the Zn(II) cations adopt both six- and four-coordinate geometries involving the N and O atoms of tetradentate 6-methyl-2-({[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]imino}methyl)phenolate ligands. Two terminal Zn(II) cations adopt distorted octahedral geometries and the central Zn(II) cation adopts a distorted tetrahedral geometry. The O atoms of the phenolate ligands bridge three Zn(II) cations, forming a dicationic trinuclear metal cluster. The title complex exhibits a strong emission at 469 nm with a quantum yield of 15.5%.

Crystal structure of bis-[2-(benzo-thia-zol-2-yl)phenolato-κ(2) N,O]copper(II)

In the title complex, [Cu(C₁₃H₈NOS)₂], the Cu^II atom is coordinated by two N atoms and two O atoms from two bidentate benzo­thia­zolphenolate ligands, forming a distorted tetra­hedral geometry [dihedral angle between two N—Cu—O planes: 45.1 (2)°]. The dihedral angles between the benzo­thia­zole ring systems and the phenol rings are 4.1 (4) and 5.8 (4)°, indicating an almost planar geometry. Weak intra- and inter­molecular C—H⋯O hydrogen bonds are observed. In the crystal, weak π–π inter­actions between aromatic and thia­zole rings [centroid–centroid distances = 3.626 (3) and 3.873 (3) Å] link the mol­ecules into a two-dimensional supra­molecular network along the bc plane.

Crystal structure of bis-[2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)aniline]silver(I) nitrate

In the cation of the title salt, [Ag(C13H11N3)2]NO3, the Ag(I) atom lies on a crystallographic inversion center and is coordinated by four N atoms from two bidentate 2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl)aniline ligands in a distorted square-planar geometry. The Ag-N(aniline) bond [2.729 (2) Å] is significantly longer than the Ag-N(imidazole) bond [2.165 (1) Å]. In the ligand, the aniline ring is twisted by 37.87 (6)° from the mean plane of the benzimidazole ring system. The nitrate anion lies on a crystallographic twofold rotation axis which passes through the N atom and one of the O atoms. In the crystal, N-H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the components, forming a layer parallel to the bc plane.

Crystal structure of 5-hy-droxy-methyl-2-meth-oxy-phenol

In the title compound, C8H10O3, the hy-droxy-methyl group is twisted by 74.51 (13)° from the plane of the benzene ring to which it is connected. By contrast, the benzene and meth-oxy groups are almost coplanar, making a dihedral angle of 4.0 (2)°. In the crystal, O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the mol-ecules into a three-dimensional network.

Crystal structure of 2-[bis(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)meth-yl]pyridine

The title compound, C12H11N5, was synthesized as a potential tridentate ligand to make catalytic metal complexes. The dihedral angle between the pyrazolyl rings is 67.9 (1)°. The most prominent feature in the crystal packing are C-H⋯N hydrogen-bonding inter-actions that link the mol-ecules into a supra-molecular tape along the b-axis direction.

Crystal structure of di-chlorido-{2,6-bis-[(3-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)meth-yl]pyridine}cobalt(II)

In the title complex, [CoCl₂(C₂₅H₂₁N₅)], the Co^II atom is coordinated by two Cl atoms and two N atoms, provided by a tridentate pyrazolylpyridyl ligand, forming a slightly distorted tetra­hedral geometry [range of angles: 96.51 (10) (chelate ring) to 118.60 (9)°]. The dihedral angle between Cl/Co/Cl and N/Co/N planes is 86.83 (7)°. The chelate ring has the conformation of a distorted boat. The dihedral angle between pyridyl ring and the coordinated pyrazolyl ring is 56.16 (12)°. The uncoordinated pyrazolyl ring is almost perpendicular to the pyridyl ring with the dihedral angle of 87.49 (10)°. In the crystal packing, inter­molecular phenyl-C—H ⋯π(pyrid­yl) inter­actions generate dimeric aggregates. These are connected into a zigzag supra­molecular chain along the c-axis direction via π–π inter­actions [inter-centroid distance between pyridyl and phenyl rings = 3.664 (2) Å].

Crystal structure of catena-poly[[silver(I)-{μ-2,6-bis-[(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)meth-yl]pyridine-κ(3) N (1),N (2):N (2')}] nitrate]

In the title complex, {[Ag(C₁₃H₁₃N₅)]NO₃}_n, the Ag^I atom is coordinated by three N atoms from two bidentate/monodentate pyrazolylpyridyl ligands to form a distorted trigonal–planar geometry [range of angles: 83.34 (6) (chelate ring) to 139.15 (7) °]. The chelate ring has a distorted boat conformation. The dihedral angle between the pyridyl ring and the coordinating pyrazolyl ring is 67.22 (6)°. The non-coordinating pyrazolyl ring is twisted by 62.97 (7)° from the pyridyl ring. In the crystal, the complex cations are arranged in polymeric chains along the c-axis direction, with the nitrate counter-anions situated in between. Weak C—H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the ions into a three-dimensional network.

Crystal structure of aqua-bis-[2-(1H-benzimidazol-2-yl-κN (3))aniline-κN]zinc dinitrate

The cation of the complex title salt, [Zn(C13H11N3)2(H2O)](NO3)2, lies about a twofold rotation axis, which passes through the Zn(II) atom and the O atom of the aqua ligand. The Zn(II) atom adopts a distorted trigonal-bipyramidal geometry defined by two N atoms in axial positions [angle = 166.24 (7)°], and two N and one O atom in the equatorial plane [range of angles: 115.17 (7)-122.42 (3)°]. The dihedral angle between the imidazole and aniline rings is 23.86 (5)°. In the crystal, N-H⋯O and O-H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the components into a three-dimensional network.

Highly active chromium(iii) complexes based on tridentate pyrazolyl pyridyl ligands for ethylene polymerization and oligomerization

A series of new chromium(iii) complexes bearing tridentate pyrazolyl pyridyl ligands were synthesized, characterized, and investigated as precatalysts for ethylene polymerization and oligomerization.

Role of resistin in the inflammatory response induced by nicotine plus lipopolysaccharide in human periodontal ligament cells in vitro

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Resistin was recently reported to play a role in inflammation-related diseases such as arthritis. However, the precise role of resistin in chronic inflammatory diseases, such as periodontal disease, remains unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the combined effects of nicotine and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on the expression of resistin and to assess whether resistin expression influences the levels of inflammatory cytokines, extracellular matrix (ECM) molecules and MMPs in human periodontal ligament cells (PDLCs) stimulated with both nicotine and LPS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

PDLCs were pretreated with isoproterenol or resistin-specific small interfering RNA (siRNA), stimulated with LPS plus nicotine for 24 h, and then monitored for the production of inflammatory mediators. The concentrations of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and nitric oxide (NO) were measured by radioimmunoassay and the Griess method, respectively. RT-PCR and western blot analysis were used to measure the levels of mRNA and protein, respectively. Western blot analysis was also used to assess the activation of various signal-transduction pathways.

RESULTS

Treatment with nicotine plus LPS up-regulated the expression of resistin mRNA and the production of resistin protein in PDLCs in a time- and concentration-dependent manner. Isoproterenol-mediated interference with the function of resistin, or siRNA-mediated knockdown of resistin expression, markedly attenuated the LPS plus nicotine-mediated stimulation of PGE2 and NO production, the production of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase proteins and the expression of proinflammatory cytokines [tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6 and IL-12] and MMPs (MMP-1, MMP-2 and MMP-9); however, these treatments restored the expression of ECM molecules. Furthermore, pretreatment with isoproterenol or resistin-specific siRNA blocked nicotine plus LPS-induced activation of phosphoinositide-3-kinase, glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta, β-catenin, p38, ERK, JNK and nuclear factor-κB.

CONCLUSION

This is the first study to show that the inhibition of resistin, by either a pharmacological or a genetic silencing approach, has anti-inflammatory effects. These effects include decreased levels of inflammatory cytokines and the prevention of ECM breakdown in a nicotine plus LPS-stimulated PDLC model.

TNF-α and LPS activate angiogenesis via VEGF and SIRT1 signalling in human dental pulp cells

AIM

To assess whether SIRT1 and VEGF are responsible for tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced angiogenesis and to examine the molecular mechanism(s) of action in human dental pulp cells (HDPCs).

METHODOLOGY

Immortalized HDPCs obtained from Prof. Takashi Takata (Hiroshima University, Japan) were treated with LPS (1 μg mL(-1) ) and TNF-α (10 ng mL(-1) ) for 24 h. mRNA and protein levels were examined by RT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Migration and tube formation were examined in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The data were analysed by one-way anova. Statistical analysis was performed at α = 0.05.

RESULTS

LPS and TNF-α upregulated VEGF and SIRT1 mRNA and protein levels. Inhibition of SIRT1 activity by sirtinol and SIRT1 siRNA or inhibition of the VEGF receptor by CBO-P11 significantly attenuated LPS + TNF-α-stimulated MMPs production in HDPCs, as well as migration and tube formation in HUVECs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, sirtinol, SIRT1 siRNA and CBO-P11 attenuated phosphorylation of Akt, extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), p38 and c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and the nuclear translocation of NF-κB p65. Pre-treatment with inhibitors of p38, ERK, JNK, PI3K and NF-κB decreased LPS + TNF-α-induced VEGF and SIRT1 expression, MMPs activity in HDPCs and angiogenesis (P < 0.05) in HUVECs.

CONCLUSIONS

TNF-α and LPS led to upregulation of VEGF and SIRT1, and subsequent upregulation of MMP-2 and MMP-9 production, and promote angiogenesis via pathways involving PI3K, p38, ERK, JNK and NF-κB. The results suggest that inhibition of SIRT1 and VEGF might attenuate pro-inflammatory mediator-induced pulpal disease.

Crystal structure of bis-(4-allyl-2-meth-oxy-phen-yl) terephthalate

The asymmetric unit of the title compound, C₂₈H₂₆O₆, contains one half-mol­ecule, with the complete molecule generated by a crystallographic inversion center. The central terephthalate and meth­oxy­benzene rings are approximately perpendicular, making a dihedral angle of 80.31 (5)°. No specific directional contacts are noted in the crystal packing. The terminal vinyl group is disordered over two orientations with an occupancy ratio of 0.796 (4):0.204 (4).

Crystal structure of 2,6-bis-[(1H-pyrazol-1-yl)meth-yl]pyridine

In the title compound, C₁₃H₁₃N₅, the planes of the pyrazolyl groups are nearly perpendicular to that of the central pyridine ring, making dihedral angles of 87.77 (8) and 85.73 (7)°. In the crystal, weak C—H⋯N hydrogen bonds link the mol­ecules into layers extending parallel to (10-1).

Crystal structure of phen-yl(pyridin-2-yl)methanol

In the title compound, C₁₂H₁₁NO, the pyridine and phenyl rings are inclined to each other by 71.42 (10)°. In the crystal, O—H⋯N hydrogen bonds link the mol­ecules into helical chains extending along the c-axis direction.

Crystal structure of a monoclinic polymorph of 5-amino-1,3,4-thia-diazol-2(3H)-one

The title compound, C2H3N3OS, is a monoclinic (P21/c) polymorph of the previously reported triclinic structure [Kang et al. (2012 ▶). Acta Cryst. E68, o1198]. The asymmetric unit contains two independent mol-ecules which are essentially planar, with r.m.s. deviations of 0.001 and 0.032 Å from the mean plane defined by the seven non-H atoms. In the crystal, N-H⋯N and N-H⋯O hydrogen bonds link the mol-ecules into a sheet parallel to (111).

Crystal structure of chlorido-penta-kis(dimethyl sulfoxide-κO)chromium(III) dichloride

In the complex cation of the title salt, [CrCl(C2H6OS)5]Cl2, the Cr(III) ion is coordinated by one chloride ligand and five O atoms from dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) ligands, leading to a slightly distorted octa-hedral coordination environment [O-Cr-O angles range from 86.69 (16) to 92.87 (16)°]. In the crystal, complex cations are arranged in hexa-gonally packed rows parallel to [010], with the chloride counter-anions situated in between. The inter-actions between cations and anions are mainly ionic in nature.

Performance of multidetector CT in the evaluation of the endometrium: Measurement of endometrial thickness and detection of disease

AIM

To evaluate the performance of multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in the measurement of endometrial thickness and assessment for endometrial disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Seventy-nine MDCT examinations, including sagittal reformats from isotropic data, were retrospectively evaluated for the presence of endometrial abnormality, endometrial thickness, and recommendation for transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) after CT. The endometrial thickness was measured on sagittal images using two different methods, between the inner-to-inner hypoattenuating stripe, and when visible, between the outer-to-outer hyperattenuating stripe. TVUS performed within 48 h of CT in premenopausal and 1 month in postmenopausal patients served as reference standard. Interobserver agreement for endometrial thickness and abnormalities was assessed using concordance correlation (CC) and kappa statistics.

RESULTS

Interobserver agreement for endometrial thickness on sagittal CT images was excellent (CC 0.98), and highly accurate using the inner-to-inner measurement. For determination of abnormal thickening, the positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 67-100% and 99.5-100%. For detection of any endometrial abnormality, the positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 79-90% and 84-95%, respectively. False-negative missed abnormalities included small volume hydrometra, a polyp, and endometrial distortion by a fibroid.

CONCLUSION

At MDCT, sagittal reformatted images provide reliable endometrial measurement using the inner-to-inner hypoattenuating stripe and are accurately categorized as normal or abnormal thickness using the same numerical criteria as at sonography.

Synthesis of mononuclear copper(II) complexes of acyclic Schiff's base ligands: spectral, structural, electrochemical, antibacterial, DNA binding and cleavage activity

The mononuclear copper(II) complexes (1&2) of ligands L(1) [N,N'-bis(2-hydroxy-5-methylbenzyl)-1,4-bis(3-iminopropyl)piperazine] or L(2) [N,N'-bis(2-hydroxy-5-bromobenzyl)-1,4-bis(3-iminopropyl) piperazine] have been synthesized and characterised. The single crystal X-ray study had shown that ligands L(1) and L(2) crystallize in a monoclinic crystal system with P21/c space group. The mononuclear copper(II) complexes show one quasireversible cyclic voltammetric response near cathodic region (-0.77 to -0.85 V) in DMF assignable to the Cu(II)/Cu(I) couple. Binding interaction of the complexes with calf thymus DNA (CT DNA) investigated by absorption studies and fluorescence spectral studies show good binding affinity to CT DNA, which imply both the copper(II) complexes can strongly interact with DNA efficiently. The copper(II) complexes showed efficient oxidative cleavage of plasmid pBR322 DNA in the presence of 3-mercaptopropionic acid as reducing agent through a mechanistic pathway involving formation of singlet oxygen as the reactive species. The Schiff bases and their Cu(II) complexes have been screened for antibacterial activities which indicates that the complexes exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than the free ligands.

(5-Methyl-pyrazine-2-carboxyl-ato-κ(2) N (1),O)bis-[2-(4-methyl-pyridin-2-yl-κN)-3,5-bis-(tri-fluoro-meth-yl)phenyl-κC (1)]iridium(III) chloro-form hemisolvate

In the title complex, [Ir(C₁₄H₈F₆N)₂(C₆H₅N₂O₂)]·0.5CHCl₃, the Ir^III atom adopts a distorted octa­hedral geometry, being coordinated by three N atoms (arranged meridionally), two C atoms and one O atom of three bidentate ligands. The complex mol­ecules pack with no specific inter­molecular inter­actions between them. The SQUEEZE procedure in PLATON [Spek (2009 ▶). Acta Cryst. D65, 148–155] was used to model a disordered chloro­form solvent mol­ecule; the calculated unit-cell data allow for the presence of half of this mol­ecule in the asymmetric unit.

Pre-Clinical Models of Acquired Neonatal Seizures: Differential Effects of Injury on Function of Chloride Co-Transporters

Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy [HIE] represents the most common acquired pathology associated with neonatal seizures. HIE-associated neonatal seizures are often difficult to control, due to their refractoriness to traditional anti-seizure agents. Developmentally regulated chloride gradients during early development make the neonatal brain more seizure-susceptible by depolarizing GABA_AR-mediated currents, and therefore hindering inhibition by conventional anti-seizure drugs such as phenobarbital [PB] and benzodiazepines. Pharmaco-modulation of chloride co-transporters has become a current field of research in treating refractory neonatal seizures, and the basis of two clinical trials [NCT01434225; NCT00380531]. However, the recent termination of NEMO study [NCT01434225] on bumetanide, an NKCC1 antagonist, suggests that clinical utilization of bumetanide as an adjunct to treat neonatal seizures with PB may not be a viable option. Hence, re-evaluation of bumetanide as an adjunct through pre-clinical studies is warranted. Additionally, the model-specific variability in the efficacy of bumetanide in the pre-clinical models of neonatal seizures highlights the differential consequences of insults used to induce seizures in each pre-clinical model as worth exploration. Injury itself can significantly alter the function of chloride co-transporters, and therefore the efficacy of anti-seizure agents that follow.