Comparison of two methodologies for calibrating satellite instruments in the visible and near-infrared.

Traditionally, satellite instruments that measure Earth-reflected solar radiation in the visible and near infrared wavelength regions have been calibrated for radiance responsivity in a two-step method. In the first step, the relative spectral response (RSR) of the instrument is determined using a nearly monochromatic light source such as a lamp-illuminated monochromator. These sources do not typically fill the field of view of the instrument nor act as calibrated sources of light.

In vitro and in vivo techniques used in drug development for evaluation of dose delivery of inhaled corticosteroids.

Oral inhaled corticosteroids are important in the treatment of asthma since their delivery is targeted directly to the lung, which is the site of action. Triamcinolone acetonide (TAA) is an effective and safe corticosteroid that is marketed as a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with an integrated spacer (Azmacort) for the treatment of asthma. Due to the phasing out of chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) propellants, Azmacort has been reformulated with a non-CFC propellant.

Degradation pathways of salmon calcitonin in aqueous solution.

Salmon calcitonin (sCT), a 32-amino-acid peptide, is the active component in many pharmaceuticals used for the management of bone diseases. The degradation pathways of sCT were determined, and the structures of the major degradation products were identified. Aqueous solutions of sCT at pH values of 3, 4, 5, and 6 were degraded, and the major degradation products were detected using reversed phase and size-exclusion high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).

Stability and purity profile of gonadorelin acetate: a high-purity gonadotropin-releasing hormone.

Recently, several reports of adverse reactions after pulsatile GnRH (gonadorelin hydrochloride) infusion therapy have appeared in the medical literature. Although the cause of these reactions has been associated with GnRH itself, the contributions of impurities and degradation products in the administered drug have not been determined, suggesting that the use of high-purity material may be advantageous in controlling unwanted side effects. This study evaluates the purity and long-term stability of a new GnRH product, gonadorelin acetate (Lutrepulse, Ortho Pharmaceutical Corporation).

Determination of the molecular size distribution of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in intravenous IgG-albumin formulations by high-performance liquid chromatography.

Recent reports have expressed concern about the safety of intravenous human immunoglobulin G (IgG) preparations. Evidence seems to indicate that aggregates in these formulations are responsible for several adverse reactions in some patients, including anaphylaxis and dyspnea. Therefore, monitoring the molecular size distribution of IgG in these products is essential for ensuring their safety.