Kumamoto University

About: Kumamoto University is a education organization based out in Kumamoto, Kumamoto, Japan. It is known for research contribution in the topics: Population & Cancer. The organization has 19602 authors who have published 35513 publications receiving 901260 citations. The organization is also known as: Kumamoto Daigaku.

Role of MAP kinase in neurons

Abstract: Extracellular stimuli such as neurotransmitters, neurotrophins, and growth factors in the brain regulate critical cellular events, including synaptic transmission, neuronal plasticity, morphological differentiation and survival Although many such stimuli trigger Ser/Thr-kinase and tyrosine-kinase cascades, the extracellular signal-regulated kinases, ERK1 and ERK2, prototypic members of the mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinase family, are most attractive candidates among protein kinases that mediate morphological differentiation and promote survival in neurons ERK1 and ERK2 are abundant in the central nervous system (CNS) and are activated during various physiological and pathological events such as brain ischemia and epilepsy In cultured hippocampal neurons, simulation of glutamate receptors can activate ERK signaling, for which elevation of intracellular Ca2+ is required In addition, brain-derived neurotrophic factor and growth factors also induce the ERK signaling and here, receptor-coupled tyrosine kinase activation has an association We describe herein intracellular cascades of ERK signaling through neurotransmitters and neurotrophic factors Putative functional implications of ERK and other MAP-kinase family members in the central nervous system are give attention

Efficacy and Safety of Adjusted-Dose Prasugrel Compared With Clopidogrel in Japanese Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome:– The PRASFIT-ACS Study –

Abstract: Background: Prasugrel is an antiplatelet agent that shows more prompt, potent, and consistent platelet inhibition than clopidogrel. The objective of this study was to confirm the efficacy and safety of prasugrel at loading/maintenance doses of 20/3.75mg. Methods and Results: Japanese patients (n=1,363) with acute coronary syndrome undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention were randomized to either prasugrel (20/3.75mg) or clopidogrel (300/75mg), both in combination with aspirin (81–330mg for the first dose and 81–100mg/day thereafter), for 24–48 weeks. The primary efficacy endpoint was the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) at 24 weeks, defined as a composite of cardiovascular death, nonfatal myocardial infarction, and nonfatal ischemic stroke. We compared the incidence of MACE between the 2 groups using point estimates. Safety outcomes included the incidence of bleeding events until 2 weeks after the last dose. The incidence of MACE at 24 weeks was 9.4% in the prasugrel group and 11.8% in the clopidogrel group (risk reduction 23%, hazard ratio 0.77, 95% confidence interval 0.56–1.07). The incidence of non-coronary artery bypass graft-related major bleeding was similar in both groups (1.9% vs. 2.2%). Conclusions: Prasugrel 20/3.75mg was associated with a low incidence of ischemic events, similar to the results of TRITON-TIMI 38, and with a low risk of clinically serious bleeding in Japanese ACS patients. (Circ J 2014; 78: 1684–1692)

Shared and distinct functions of RAGS and ELF‐1 in guiding retinal axons

Abstract: Two ligands for Eph-related receptor tyrosine kinases, RAGS and ELF-1, have been implicated in the control of development of the retinotectal projection. Both molecules are expressed in overlapping gradients in the tectum, the target area of retinal ganglion cell axons. In two in vitro assays ELF-1 is shown to have a repellent axon guidance function for temporal, but apparently not for nasal axons. RAGS on the other hand is repellent for both types of axons, though to different degrees. Thus, RAGS and ELF-1 share some and differ in other properties. The biological activities of these molecules correlate with the strength of interaction with their receptors expressed on RGC axons. The meaning of these findings for guidance of retinal axons in the tectum is discussed.

A critical analysis of extraction techniques used for botanicals: Trends, priorities, industrial uses and optimization strategies

Abstract: Plant extracts have been long used by the traditional healers for providing health benefits and are nowadays suitable ingredient for the production of formulated health products and nutraceuticals. Traditional methods of extraction such as maceration, percolation, digestion, and preparation of decoctions and infusions are now been replaced by advanced extraction methods for increased extraction efficiency and selectivity of bioactive compounds to meet up the increasing market demand. Advanced techniques use different ways for extraction such as microwaves, ultrasound waves, supercritical fluids, enzymes, pressurized liquids, electric field, etc. These innovative extraction techniques, afford final extracts selectively rich in compounds of interest without formation of artifacts, and are often simple, fast, environment friendly and fully automated compared to existing extraction method. The present review is focused on the recent trends on the extraction of different bioactive chemical constituents depending on the nature of sample matrices and their chemical classes including anthocyanins, flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, oils, etc. In addition, we review the strategies for designing extraction, selection of most suitable extraction methods, and trends of extraction methods for botanicals. Recent progress on the research based on these advanced methods of extractions and their industrial importance are also discussed in detail.