Dimethyl Sulfoxide Attenuates Acute Lung Injury Induced by Hemorrhagic Shock/Resuscitation in Rats.

Inflammation following hemorrhagic shock/resuscitation (HS/RES) induces acute lung injury (ALI). Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidative capacities. We sought to clarify whether DMSO could attenuate ALI induced by HS/RES.

Improving the Stability of Astaxanthin by Microencapsulation in Calcium Alginate Beads.

There has been considerable interest in the biological functions of astaxanthin and its potential applications in the nutraceutical, cosmetics, food, and feed industries in recent years. However, the unstable structure of astaxanthin considerably limits its application. Therefore, this study reports the encapsulation of astaxanthin in calcium alginate beads using the extrusion method to improve its stability.

Prophylactic mirtazapine reduces intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus.

Background: Activation of the serotonergic system is an important factor in the pathogenesis of intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus. Mirtazapine is a new antidepressant that selectively blocks 5-HT(2) and 5-HT(3) receptors. We therefore tested the hypothesis that preoperative mirtazapine would reduce the incidence of intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus.

Preoperative gabapentin prevents intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus after orthopedic surgery.

Background: Pruritus is the most common side effect of intrathecal morphine. Gabapentin is an anticonvulsant and had been reported to be effective in some chronic pruritus conditions. Its effect in intrathecal morphine-induced pruritus has not yet undergone an evaluation.