bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ginsenoside Re and Notoginsenoside R1: Immunologic Adjuvants with Low Haemolytic Effect
Authors: Sun Hong‐Xiang , Chen Yuehua , Ye Yiping
Published: July 2006

The further purification of the total saponins from the roots of Panax notoginseng (Burk.) F. H. Chen by ordinary and reversed‐phase silica‐gel, as well as Sephadex LH‐20 chromatography afforded two adjuvant active dammarane‐type saponins, ginsenoside Re (1) and notoginsenoside R1 (2). These two saponins were evaluated for haemolytic activities and adjuvant potentials on the cellular and humoral immune responses of ICR mice against ovalbumin (OVA). The concentrations inducing 50% of the maximum haemolysis (HD50), using 0.5% red blood cell suspensions, were 469.6±16.9 and 420.4±22.9 μg/ml for 1 and 2, respectively. Compounds 1 and 2 significantly increased the concanavalin A (Con A)‐, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐, and OVA‐induced splenocyte proliferation in the OVA‐immunized mice (P<0.05, P<0.01, or P<0.001). The OVA‐specific IgG, IgG1, and IgG2b antibody titres in serum were also significantly enhanced by 1 and 2 compared with OVA control group (P<0.05, P<0.01, or P<0.001). The results indicate that 1 and 2 showed a slight haemolytic activity and significant adjuvant effect on specific antibody and cellular immune response against OVA in mice, and that the type of the terminal sugar of the sugar chain at C(6) of protopanaxatriol could not only affect their haemolytic activities and adjuvant potentials, but have significant effects on the nature of the immune responses. The information about this structurefunction relationship might be useful for developing semisynthetic dammarane‐type saponin derivatives with immunological adjuvant activity.
Nine New Dammarane Saponins from Gynostemma pentaphyllum
Authors: Yin Feng , Zhang Yi‐Nan , Yang Zheng‐Yi , Hu Li‐Hong
Published: July 2006

Nine new dammarane saponins, 1–9, were isolated from the MeOH extract of the aerial part of Gynostemma pentaphyllum, an edible plant of the Cucurbitaceae family, that grows wildly in China. Their structures were elucidated by 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR analysis, as well as by chemical degradation. Aglycons 21,24‐cyclopentyldammar‐25‐ene of 6 and 7, and 21,24‐cyclopentyldammarane of 8 and 9, were novel. Compounds 1, 4, and 8 showed moderate antitumor activities against stomach cancer cells SGC‐7901 and liver cancer cells BEL‐7402.
Iridoid Glucosides and Flavones from the Aerial Parts of Avicennia marina
Authors: Feng Yan , Li Xiao‐Ming , Duan Xiao‐Juan , Wang Bin‐Gui
Published: July 2006

Two new iridoid glucosides, namely, 2′‐O‐[(2E,4E)‐5‐phenylpenta‐2,4‐dienoyl]mussaenosidic acid (1; mussaenosidic acid=[1S‐(1α,4aα,7α,7aα)]‐1‐(β‐D‐glucopyranosyloxy)‐1,4a,5,6,7,7a‐hexahydro‐7‐hydroxy‐7‐methylcyclopenta[c]pyran‐4‐carboxylic acid) and 2′‐O‐(4‐methoxycinnamoyl)mussaenosidic acid (2), were isolated from the aerial parts of the mangrove plant Avicennia marina. Beside that, one known iridoid glucoside, 2′‐O‐coumaroylmussaenosidic acid (3) and four known flavones (flavone=2‐phenyl‐4H‐1‐benzopyran‐4‐one) including 4′,5‐dihydroxy‐3′,7‐dimethoxyflavone (4), 4′,5‐dihydroxy‐3′,5′,7‐trimethoxyflavone (5), 4′,5,7‐trihydroxyflavone (6), and 3′,4′,5‐trihydroxy‐7‐methoxyflavone (7) were also isolated and identified. The structures of these compounds were elucidated by NMR spectroscopy and by low‐ and high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The chemotaxonomic significance of these findings was discussed. In addition, each isolated compound was evaluated for the ability of α,α‐diphenyl‐β‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical‐scavenging activity.
Highly Potent Vitamin D Receptor Antagonists: Design, Synthesis, and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Saito Nozomi , Kittaka Atsushi
Published: July 2006

Vitamin D receptor (VDR) antagonists have attracted significant levels of interest because of their potential utility in the treatment of Paget's disease, which is known as the most flagrant example of disordered bone remodeling and the second most common bone disease after osteoporosis in Anglo‐Saxons. Recent studies on Paget's disease suggested a specific increase in osteoclasts' sensitivity to the differentiation activity of active vitamin D3 as the principal mechanism for abnormal bone formation. We set out to conduct a structure–activity relationship study on the first VDR antagonists, TEI‐9647 and TEI‐9648 (25‐dehydro‐1α‐hydroxyvitamin D3‐26,23‐lactone), with the goal of improved VDR antagonistic activity. Given that both potent agonists and antagonists must have high affinity for the VDR, we hoped that our accumulated knowledge in the field of VDR agonists would help us identify potent antagonists. First 2α‐modified TEI‐9647 analogues were synthesized, and then 24‐substitution to stabilize the lactone structure under physiological conditions was investigated. Finally, 2α‐modified 24‐methyl‐, 24,24‐dimethyl‐, and 24,24‐ethano‐25‐dehydro‐1α‐hydroxyvitamin D3‐26,23‐lactone analogues were synthesized. The synthesis of the 24,24‐ethano‐TEI lactone was accomplished through Ru‐catalyzed intermolecular enyne metathesis of the alkynone CD‐ring side chain with ethylene to give a dienone, followed by regioselective cyclopropanation. It was found that 2α,24,24‐trimethyl‐TEI‐9647 (39) possessed an antagonistic activity (IC50=0.093 nM) approximately 90 times that of the original TEI‐9647 (IC50=8.3 nM).
A Targeted Protease Substrate for a Quantitative Determination of Protease Activities in the Endolysosomal Pathway
Authors: Fischer Rainer , Bächle Daniel , Fotin‐Mleczek Mariola , Jung Günther , Kalbacher Hubert , Brock Roland
Published: July 2006

Inside the cell, proteases act in concert in the degradation of proteins and peptides. In order to understand the significance of an individual proteolytic activity within an ensemble of proteases, protocols and probes are required that enable a quantitative determination of the contribution of a protease to the break‐down of a given substrate. Here we present a fluorescence resonance energy transfer‐based probe and protocols for a quantitative determination of proteolytic activities inside the endolysosomal compartment. A peptide substrate that is readily cleaved by different cathepsins is flanked by fluorescein and tetramethylrhodamine‐labeled lysine residues. Efficient endolysosomal targeting of the substrate is achieved by N‐terminal elongation with the cell‐penetrating peptide nona‐arginine. The proteasome inhibitor lactacystin has a small, but significant effect on the break‐down of the substrate, thus demonstrating that only a minor fraction of the peptide reaches the cytoplasm in its intact form. Nona‐arginine therefore constitutes a highly efficient low‐molecular‐weight moiety for targeting the endolysosomal compartment.
Metal‐Particle‐Induced, Highly Localized Site‐Specific Etching of Si and Formation of Single‐Crystalline Si Nanowires in Aqueous Fluoride Solution
Authors: Peng Kuiqing , Fang Hui , Hu Juejun , Wu Yin , Zhu Jing , Yan Yunjie , Lee ShuitTong
Published: July 2006

A straightforward metal‐particle‐induced, highly localized site‐specific corrosion‐like mechanism was proposed for the formation of aligned silicon‐nanowire arrays on silicon in aqueous HF/AgNO3 solution on the basis of convincing experimental results. The etching process features weak dependence on the doping of the silicon wafers and, thus, provides an efficient method to prepare silicon nanowires with desirable doping characteristics. The novel electrochemical properties between silicon and active noble metals should be useful for preparing novel silicon nanostructures and also new optoelectronic devices.
Microwave Synthesis of Hybrid Inorganic–Organic Porous Materials: Phase‐Selective and Rapid Crystallization
Authors: Jhung Sung Hwa , Lee Jin‐Ho , Forster Paul M. , Férey Gérard , Cheetham Anthony K. , Chang Jong‐San
Published: July 2006

Microwave synthesis of two porous nickel glutarates was compared with conventional hydrothermal synthesis. The cubic nickel glutarate, [Ni20(C5H6O4)20(H2O)8]⋅40 H2O (1), was synthesized by conventional electrical heating in several hours or days, depending on synthesis temperature. Crystallization was greatly accelerated by microwave irradiation, in which more stable, tetragonal nickel glutarate, [Ni22(C5H6O4)20(OH)4(H2O)10]⋅38 H2O (2), was formed within a few minutes, suggesting the efficiency of the microwave technique in the synthesis of porous hybrid materials. The cubic phase 1 is formed preferentially at low pH, low temperature, and especially under conventional electrical heating. In contrast, the tetragonal phase 2 is obtained favorably at high pH, high temperature, and especially with microwave irradiation. This work demonstrates that the microwave method provides not only the very fast synthesis of a hybrid material, but also the possibility to discover a new porous hybrid material not yet identified by conventional hydrothermal synthesis. The hydrothermal formation of metal–organic hybrid materials in a matter of minutes is an important step towards developing commercially viable routes for producing this valuable class of materials.
Molecular Mobility of Interlocked Structures Exploiting New Functions of Advanced Biomaterials
Authors: Yui Nobuhiko , Ooya Tooru
Published: July 2006

Cyclic compounds can rotate and/or slide along a polymeric chain in a polyrotaxane structure, and the mobility of the ligands linked by the cyclic compounds is closely related to enhancing the multivalent interaction with binding sites on the receptor proteins. This concept is being exploited in more practical applications in the biomedical and pharmaceutical fields, such as a non‐viral gene carriers.
Ligand Topology Effects on Olefin Oxidations by Bio‐Inspired [FeII(N2Py2)] Catalysts
Authors: Mas‐Ballesté Rubén , Costas Miquel , van den Berg Tieme , Que Lawrence
Published: July 2006

Linear tetradentate N2Py2 ligands can coordinate to an octahedral FeII center in three possible topologies (cis‐α, cis‐β, and trans). While for the N,N′‐bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,2‐diaminoethane (bpmen) complex, only the cis‐α topology has been observed, for N,N′‐bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,2‐diaminocyclohexane (bpmcn) both cis‐α and cis‐β isomers have been reported. To date, no facile interconversion between cis‐α and cis‐β topologies has been observed for iron(II) complexes even at high temperatures. However, this work provides evidence for facile interconversion in solution of cis‐α, cis‐β, and trans topologies for [Fe(bpmpn)X2] (bpmpn=N,N′‐bis(2‐pyridylmethyl)‐1,3‐diaminopropane; X=triflate, CH3CN) complexes. As reported previously, the catalytic behavior of cis‐α and cis‐β isomers of [Fe(bpmcn)(OTf)2] with respect to olefin oxidation depends dramatically on the geometry adopted by the iron complex. To establish a general pattern of the catalysis/topology dependence, this work presents an extended comparison of the catalytic behavior for oxidation of olefins of a family of [Fe(N2py2)] complexes that present different topologies. 18O labeling experiments provide evidence for a complex mechanistic landscape in which several pathways should be considered. Complexes with a trans topology catalyze only non‐water‐assisted epoxidation. In contrast, complexes with a cis‐α topology, such as [Fe(bpmen)X2] and [Fe(α‐bpmcn)(OTf)2], can catalyze both epoxidation and cis‐dihydroxylation through a water‐assisted mechanism. Surprisingly, [Fe(bpmpn)X2] and [Fe(β‐bpmcn)(OTf)2] catalyze epoxidation via a water‐assisted pathway and cis‐dihydroxylation via a non‐water‐assisted mechanism, a result that requires two independent and distinct oxidants.
Dopaminergic innervation of the mouse inner ear: Evidence for a separate cytochemical group of cochlear efferent fibers
Authors: Darrow Keith N. , Simons Emmanuel J. , Dodds Leslie , Liberman M. Charles
Published: July 2006

Immunostaining mouse cochleas for tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and dopamine β‐hydroxylase suggests that there is a rich adrenergic innervation throughout the auditory nerve trunk and a small dopaminergic innervation of the sensory cell areas. Surgical cuts in the brainstem confirm these dopaminergic fibers as part of the olivocochlear efferent bundle. Within the sensory epithelium, TH‐positive terminals are seen only in the inner hair cell area, where they intermingle with other olivocochlear terminals expressing cholinergic markers (vesicular acetylcholine transporter; VAT). Double immunostaining suggests little colocalization of TH and VAT; quantification of terminal volumes suggests that TH‐positive fibers constitute only 10–20% of the efferent innervation of the inner hair cell area. Immunostaining of mouse brainstem revealed a small population of TH‐positive cells in and around the lateral superior olive. Consistent with cochlear projections, double staining for the cholinergic marker acetylcholinesterase suggested that TH‐positive somata are not cholinergic and vice versa. All observations are consistent with the view that a small dopaminergic subgroup of lateral olivocochlear neurons 1) projects to the inner hair cell area, 2) is distinct from the larger cholinergic group projecting there, and 3) may correspond to lateral olivocochlear “shell” neurons described by others (Warr et al. [1997] Hear. Res 108:89–111). J. Comp. Neurol. 498:403–414, 2006. © 2006 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Überarbeitung der EU‐Bauproduktenrichtlinie – Erfahrungen aus Deutschland aus der Sicht des DIBt
Authors: Jasch Erich , Springborn Matthias
Published: July 2006

1. Einführung

2. Anforderungen an eine überarbeitete Bauproduktenrichtlinie aus Sicht des DIBt

2.1. Verbindlichkeit der CE‐Kennzeichnung

2.2. Übergangsfristen

2.3. In‐Verkehr‐Bringen

2.4. Umgang mit unzureichenden harmonisierten Normen

2.5. Abgrenzung der Kompetenzen zwischen den Organen der Europäischen Gemeinschaft und den Mitgliedstaaten

3. Ausblick
On the Utilization of Boron Doped Diamond Electrode as a Sensor for Parathion and as an Anode for Electrochemical Combustion Of Parathion
Authors: Pedrosa Valber A. , Miwa Douglas , Machado Sergio A. S. , Avaca Luis A.
Published: July 2006

This work proposes the utilization of a boron doped diamond (BDD) electrode as a sensor for pesticides and as well as an anode for electrochemical combustion of Parathion in spiked, pure and natural waters. The square‐wave voltammetry was selected as the electroanalytical technique and the Britton–Robinson buffer as the electrolyte. The electrochemical reduction responses of Parathion were analyzed and compared with those previously obtained using a hanging mercury electrode (HMDE). The detection and quantification limits were calculated from the analytical curves both for BDD and HMDE in Milli‐Q water (2.4 and 7.9 μg L−1 and 3.9 and 12.8 μg L−1 respectively) showing only a slight improvement when used BDD. However, if the application involves polluted natural waters the improvement is accentuated due to the very low adsorption characteristics of BDD, which prevent the fouling of electrode surface by organic pollutants. The BDD was also used as anode for electrochemical remediation of Parathion contamination. In this case, electrolysis was carried out in high positive potential (3.0 V) and lead the electrochemical combustion of Parathion to CO2 and H2O, as measured by the diminishing of total organic carbon in the electrolyte.
Upregulation of calpastatin in regenerating and developing rat liver: Role in resistance against hepatotoxicity
Authors: Limaye Pallavi B. , Bhave Vishakha S. , Palkar Prajakta S. , Apte Udayan M. , Sawant Sharmilee P. , Yu Songtao , Latendresse John R. , Reddy Janardan K. , Mehendale Harihara M.
Published: July 2006

Acute liver failure induced by hepatotoxic drugs results from rapid progression of injury. Substantial research has shown that timely liver regeneration can prevent progression of injury leading to a favorable prognosis. However, the mechanism by which compensatory regeneration prevents progression of injury is not known. We have recently reported that calpain released from necrotic hepatocytes mediates progression of liver injury even after the hepatotoxic drug is cleared from the body. By examining expression of calpastatin (CAST), an endogenous inhibitor of calpain in three liver cell division models known to be resistant to hepatotoxicity, we tested the hypothesis that increased CAST in the dividing hepatocytes affords resistance against progression of injury. Liver regeneration that follows CCl4-induced liver injury, 70% partial hepatectomy, and postnatal liver development were used. In all three models, CAST was upregulated in the dividing/newly divided hepatocytes and declined to normal levels with the cessation of cell proliferation. To test whether CAST overexpression confers resistance against hepatotoxicity, CAST was overexpressed in the livers of normal SW mice using adenovirus before challenging them with acetaminophen (APAP) overdose. These mice exhibited markedly attenuated progression of liver injury and 57% survival. Whereas APAP-bioactivating enzymes and covalent binding of the APAP-derived reactive metabolites remained unaffected, degradation of calpain specific target substrates such as fodrin was significantly reduced in these mice.

In conclusion

, CAST overexpression could be used as a therapeutic strategy to prevent progression of liver injury where liver regeneration is severely hampered.
Relationship of cosmetic procedures and drug use to hepatitis C and hepatitis B virus infections in a low-risk population
Authors: Hwang Lu-Yu , Kramer Jennifer R. , Troisi Catherine , Bull Lara , Grimes Carolyn Z. , Lyerla Rob , Alter Miriam J.
Published: July 2006

We conducted an anonymous cross-sectional seroprevalence study of a population with a low frequency of injection drug use to determine whether persons with a history of cosmetic procedures, such as tattooing and body piercing, or intranasal drug use were at increased risk for hepatitis C virus (HCV) or hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Students 18 years and older from eight college campuses in Houston, Texas, were invited to participate in the study. Of the 7,960 who completed a self-administered questionnaire and provided a blood sample, 5,282 U.S.- or Canadian-born participants were analyzed. Their median age was 21, 62% were female, 42% were white, 26% black, 22% Hispanic, and 10% Asian or other. Two percent reported injection drug use, 13.7% intranasal drug use, 21.2% body piercings, and 25.2% tattoos. The overall prevalence of HCV infection was 0.9% and of HBV infection was 5.2%. Higher HCV prevalence was independently associated with increasing age (odds ratio [OR] per year = 1.11; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08-1.14), history of injection drug use (OR = 18.24; 95% CI = 7.74-42.92), blood transfusion before 1991 (OR = 3.21; 95% CI = 1.02-10.12), and incarceration (OR = 3.48; 95% CI = 1.45-8.37). Among 5,066 students who denied injecting drugs, HCV prevalence was 0.8% in those who reported intranasal drug use and 0.6% each in those who reported tattoos and those who reported body piercing. Increased HBV prevalence was associated with high-risk sexual behaviors and black or Asian race.

In conclusion

, there was no increased risk for HCV or HBV infection in low-risk adults based solely on history of cosmetic procedures or snorting drugs. However, proper infection control practices for cosmetic procedures should be followed, illegal drug use discouraged, and hepatitis B vaccination provided to adolescents and sexually active adults.
Mechanisms of endotoxin-induced NO, IL-6, and TNF-α production in activated rat hepatic stellate cells: Role of p38 MAPK
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu Chinnasamy , Watkins Simon C. , Gandhi Chandrashekhar R.
Published: July 2006

Compelling experimental evidence indicates that the interactions between endotoxin and hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) can play a significant role in the pathogenesis of liver disease. Endotoxin-induced release of a multifunctional mediator NO (via inducible NO synthase) and the proinflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL)-6 by HSCs could be an important mechanism of pathological changes in the liver. However, the signaling mechanisms of these effects are poorly understood. In this study, we found that endotoxin causes activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) (extracellular signal-regulated protein kinase [ERK] 1 and 2, p38, and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase [JNK]) and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) and production of H2O2 in culture-activated HSCs. However, only p38 and NF-κB were found to be responsible for the synthesis of NO, IL-6, and TNF-α. Exogenous H2O2 caused modest stimulation of TNF-α synthesis, did not affect the synthesis of NO or IL-6, and did not activate NF-κB or MAPKs. Inhibition of p38 and NF-κB activation by SB203580 and pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate, respectively, blocked endotoxin-induced H2O2, NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 synthesis. Inhibition of ERK1/2 and JNK phosphorylation did not alter these effects of endotoxin. Whereas SB203580 inhibited endotoxin-induced NF-κB activation, pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate did not affect p38 phosphorylation in endotoxin-stimulated cells.

In conclusion

, endotoxin-induced synthesis of NO, TNF-α, and IL-6 in HSCs is mediated by p38 and NF-κB, with involvement of H2O2 in TNF-α production.

Supplementary material for this article can be found on the HEPATOLOGY website
(http://interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0270-9139/suppmat/index.html).
Probiotics: Application of “healthy” bacteria to liver transplant recipients
Authors: Levitsky Josh
Published: July 2006

Bacterial infections frequently occur early after liver transplantation. We recently reported significant progress with a synbiotic composition, consisting of one lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and one fiber, which reduced the infection rate from 48% (with selective bowel decontamination) to 13%. Now, our aim is to study if a combination of different LAB and fibers would further improve outcome. A prospective randomized double-blind trial was undertaken in 66 liver transplant recipients. All patients received enteral nutrition immediately post-operatively. Comparison was made between one group (A) receiving a composition of four LAB and four fibers and another group (B) receiving the fibers only. The treatment started the day before surgery and continued for 14 days. Thirty-day infection rate, length of hospital stay, duration of antibiotic therapy, non-infectious complications and side effects of enteral nutrition were recorded. The incidence of post-operative bacterial infections was significantly reduced; being 48% with only fibers and 3% with LAB and fibers. In addition, the duration of antibiotic therapy was significantly shorter in the latter group. In both groups, mainly mild or moderate infections occurred. Fibers and LAB were well tolerated. Early enteral nutrition supplemented with a mixture of LAB and fibers reduces bacterial infection rates following liver transplantation. Treatment with only fibers led to a low incidence of severe infections.
Expression of non-signaling membrane-anchored death receptors protects murine livers in different models of hepatitis
Authors: Descamps Delphyne , Vigant Frédéric , Esselin Stéphanie , Connault Elisabeth , Opolon Paule , Perricaudet Michel , Benihoud Karim
Published: July 2006

Fas and tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 (TNFR1) are death receptors involved in various diseases such as hepatitis, sepsis, or graft rejection. Neutralizing antibodies to death ligands or soluble death receptors can inhibit cell death; however, they induce side effects because of their systemic actions. To specifically block death signaling to target cells, we created death domain–deficient (ΔDD) membrane-anchored receptors, delivered to the liver by either recombinant adenovirus or hydrodynamic pressure of nonviral recombinant plasmids. In anti-Fas antibody-induced fulminant hepatitis, mice expressing recombinant Fas-decoy receptors (FasΔDD) in their livers were completely protected against apoptosis and survived fulminant hepatitis. In T-cell–dependent concanavalin A–induced autoimmune hepatitis, FasΔDD antagonist expression prevented hepatocyte damage and mouse death. Finally, TNFR1ΔDD effectively protected mice against LPS-induced septic shock.

In conclusion

, such ΔDD-decoy receptors act as dominant-negative receptors exerting local inhibition, while avoiding systemic neutralization of apoptosis ligands, and might have therapeutic potential in hepatitis.
NAFLD in children: A prospective clinical-pathological study and effect of lifestyle advice
Authors: Nobili Valerio , Marcellini Matilde , Devito Rita , Ciampalini Paolo , Piemonte Fiorella , Comparcola Donatella , Sartorelli Maria Rita , Angulo Paul
Published: July 2006

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a common cause of chronic liver disease in adults, is incompletely characterized in children. We conducted a prospective study to better characterize the clinical presentation of NAFLD in children and to determine the effect of lifestyle advice in the management of pediatric NAFLD. From June 2001 to April 2003, 84 children (age 3-18.8 yr) who had elevated aminotransferases and the diagnosis of NAFLD confirmed via liver biopsy underwent a 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test and a 12-month program of lifestyle advice consisting of diet and physical exercise. Thirty-four (40.5%) patients were obese (body mass index [BMI] >97th percentile), and 43 (51.2%) were overweight (BMI 85th-97th percentile). Ten (12%) had abnormal glucose tolerance; 10 (12%) had elevated triglycerides, cholesterol, or both; and all had normal blood pressure. Most children (67/84, 80%) were insulin-resistant, including the 7 children with normal BMI (<85th percentile). Increased liver fibrosis was present in 49 (58.1%) patients and was independently associated with obesity (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.2-6.2) and age (1-year increase; OR 1.2, 95% CI 1.04-1.5). A 12-month program with diet and physical exercise resulted in a significant decrease in BMI, and levels of fasting glucose, insulin, lipids, and liver enzymes, as well as liver echogenicity on ultrasonography.

In conclusion

, children with NAFLD are almost always insulin-resistant regardless of BMI. Obesity and older age are independently associated with increased liver fibrosis. A simple lifestyle advice program significantly improves insulin resistance, and the liver disease in pediatric NAFLD.
HCV RNA detection by TMA during the hepatitis C antiviral long-term treatment against cirrhosis (Halt-C) trial
Authors: Morishima Chihiro , Morgan Timothy R. , Everhart James E. , Wright Elizabeth C. , Shiffman Mitchell L. , Everson Gregory T. , Lindsay Karen L. , Lok Anna S. F. , Bonkovsky Herbert L. , Di Bisceglie Adrian M. , Lee William M. , Dienstag Jules L. , Ghany Marc G. , Gretch David R.
Published: July 2006

For making treatment decisions related to chronic hepatitis C, the utility of HCV RNA tests with increased sensitivity has not been defined. Prior interferon nonresponders with advanced fibrosis (n = 1,145) were retreated with peginterferon alpha-2a and ribavirin. Patients who were HCV RNA-negative by a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based assay (Roche COBAS Amplicor™ HCV Test, v. 2.0; lower limit of detection [LOD] 100 IU/mL) at week 20 (W20) received treatment for 48 weeks. Stored specimens were tested using the Bayer VERSANT® HCV RNA Qualitative (TMA) Assay (LOD 9.6 IU/mL) and compared to PCR results for the ability to predict sustained virological response (SVR; defined as undetectable HCV RNA by PCR at W72). Nearly all PCR-positive samples (1006/1007, 99.9%) were positive as assessed by TMA. Among 1,294 PCR-negative samples, 22% were TMA-positive. Negative TMA results were more predictive of SVR than were negative PCR results at W12 (82% vs. 64%,

P

< .001) and at W20 (66% vs. 52%,

P

= 0.001). SVR was more likely the earlier TMA had become negative during treatment (82% at W12, 44% at W20, 20% at W24). Among 45 patients who were TMA-positive but were PCR-negative at W20 and W24, none achieved SVR (95% CI: 0%-8%). Approximately 10% of patients with a single positive TMA result at the end of treatment still achieved SVR.

In conclusion

, negative TMA results at or after W12 were superior to negative PCR results for predicting SVR. In patients with negative PCR results during treatment, a single positive TMA test did not exclude SVR, although persistently positive tests did.
Global transcriptional response to interferon is a determinant of HCV treatment outcome and is modified by race
Authors: He Xiao-Song , Ji Xuhuai , Hale Matthew B. , Cheung Ramsey , Ahmed Aijaz , Guo Yaqian , Nolan Garry P. , Pfeffer Lawrence M. , Wright Teresa L. , Risch Neil , Tibshirani Robert , Greenberg Harry B.
Published: July 2006

Interferon (IFN)-α–based therapy for chronic hepatitis C is effective in fewer than 50% of all treated patients, with a substantially lower response rate in black patients. The goal of this study was to investigate the underlying host transcriptional response associated with interferon treatment outcomes. We collected peripheral blood mononuclear cells from chronic hepatitis C patients before initiation of IFN-α therapy and incubated the cells with or without IFN-α for 6 hours, followed by microarray assay to identify IFN-induced gene transcription. The microarray datasets were analyzed statistically according to the patients' race and virological responses to subsequent IFN-α treatment. The global induction of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs) was significantly greater in sustained virological responders compared with nonresponders and in white patients compared with black patients. In addition, a significantly greater global induction of ISGs was observed in sustained virological responders compared with nonresponders within the group of white patients. The level of IFN-induced signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) 1 activation, a key component of the Janus kinase (JAK)-STAT signaling pathway, correlated with the global induction of ISGs and was significantly higher in white patients than in black patients.

In conclusion

, both treatment outcome and race are associated with different transcriptional responses to IFN-α. Because this difference is evident in the global induction of ISGs rather than a selective effect on a subset of such genes, key factors affecting the outcome of IFN-α therapy are likely to act at the JAK-STAT pathway that controls transcription of downstream ISGs.

Supplementary material for this article can be found on the HEPATOLOGY website
(http://interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0270-9139/suppmat/index.html).
Pattern recognition receptors: A contemporary view on liver diseases
Authors: Szabo Gyongyi , Dolganiuc Angela , Mandrekar Pranoti
Published: July 2006

Pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) function as sensors of microbial danger signals enabling the vertebrate host to initiate an immune response. PRRs are present not only in immune cells but also in liver parenchymal cells and the complexity of the cell populations provide unique aspects to pathogen recognition and tissue damage in the liver. This review discusses the role of different PRRs in pathogen recognition in the liver, and focuses on the role of PRRs in hepatic inflammation, cholestasis, ischemia, repair and fibrosis. PRRs as novel therapeutic targets are evaluated.
Suitability of Molluscs as Bioindicators for Meadow‐ and Flood‐Channels of the Elbe‐Floodplains
Authors: Foeckler Francis , Deichner Oskar , Schmidt Hans , Castella Emmanuel
Published: July 2006

The goals of the subproject “molluscs” within the inter‐disciplinary research project “Indicator systems for the characterisation and prediction of ecological changes in floodplain systems” were:

– develop further existing mollusc‐based indicator systems of site quality and to test their transferability,

– characterise grassland sites within the recent floodplains of three study areas along the Elbe River,

– analyse the relationships between indicator species‐/groups and abiotic parameters,

– compile and use selected species traits in the analytical process.

The results clearly show several characteristic species groups related to the hydrology of the sites (i.e. inundation and desiccation regime) and on to the degree of agricultural use. These dependencies can be interpreted by the simultaneous analysis of the species traits.

“Models” are proposed, that are applicable to nature protection measures at the landscape scale. (© 2006 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Orally administered, colon‐specific mucoadhesive azopolymer particles for the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease: An in vivo study
Authors: Roldo Marta , Barbu Eugen , Brown James F. , Laight David W. , Smart John D. , Tsibouklis John
Published: July 2006

Radiolabeled congeners of a series of azopolymers have been synthesized and characterized. The in vivo (rat) gastrointestinal transit profile of millimeter‐sized particles of these azopolymers has been determined and used to facilitate the selection of a candidate material for therapeutic applications. The efficacy of the selected material as a protective coating for the colonic mucosa has been tested in a hapten‐reactivated, in vivo model of inflammatory bowel disease: 7 days after reactivation of the condition, the myeloperoxidase activity of animals that had received doses of the selected azopolymer was determined to be at the same level as that of healthy animals or that of the negative control group, highlighting the therapeutic promise of this material. © 2006 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res, 2006
Resistance of Vigna unguiculata (cowpea) seeds to Callosobruchus maculatus is restricted to cotyledonary tissues
Authors: Domingues Sarah JS , Melo Francislete R , Aguiar Juliana M , Affonso Adriana G , Giuli Jucélia SA , Rose Juliana L , Sales Maurício P , Machado Lara F , Azevedo Cassiana R , da Cunha Patrícia C , Uchoa Adriana Ferreira , de Oliveira Antônia Elenir Amâncio , Xavier‐Filho José , Fernandes Kátia VS
Published: July 2006

We have investigated the survival of Callosobruchus maculatus larvae when reared on resistant IT81D 1045 Vigna unguiculata seeds, whose resistance has been associated with variant forms of vicilins. Here, we present data which show that larvae of C. maculatus feeding on embryonic axis of resistant cowpea reach a mass of around 28 times higher than those feeding on cotyledonary tissues. Additionally, incorporation of 5–10% of embryonic axis flour on artificial seeds made of resistant flour restores toxicity of seeds to the bruchid. Vicilins purified from both susceptible and resistant embryonic axis had no deleterious effects either on insect development or on insect survival until a level of 4% of incorporation. In contrast, vicilins from resistant cotyledons show an LD50 (50% lethal dose) and WD50 (half weight dose) of 2%. Total vicilin contents of embryonic axes were around two times lower than in cotyledonary tissues, while proteolytic activities of all four proteinase classes were always higher in the former tissues. By 2D‐PAGE we visualized eight protein spots, which seem to be exclusively found on resistant cotyledons. Copyright © 2006 Society of Chemical Industry
Development and performance advantages of industrial, automotive and aviation synthetic lubricants
Authors: Law D. A. , Lohuis J. R. , Breau J. Y. , Harlow A. J. , Rochette M.
Published: July 2006

The study and use of some types of syntbetic lubricants can be traced back 50 years.1 Within the past twenty years, rapid advances in technology have resulted in syntbetic lubricants that can operate satisfactorily over temperature extremes well beyond the capabilities of conventional petroleum‐based oils. Current emphasis is on the ability of some types of synthetic lubricants to allow more efficient system operation, with concomitant energy savings and extended equipment and oil life. Several definitions have been proposed for synthetic lubricants. In this paper, the authors define a synthetic lubricant as a product which consists of base fluids manufactured by chemical synthesis and containing necessary performance additives. Thus the base fluids are tailored, through specific chemical reactions, to meet predetermined physical and chemical quality targets. In this paper, discussion will be limited to (a) a review of the types of chemicals which have been studied for use in synthetic lubricants and (b) selected application data which dramatise some of the advantages gained through use of the synthetic lubricant.
Lubrication of gears with synthetic lubricants
Authors: Laukotka E. M.
Published: July 2006

This paper looks at the gear types and operating conditions to which synthetic lubricants are most suited, in terms of both economy and technical benefits. In examining the characteristics of, particularly, worm and non‐positive (friction wheel) gears, data is presented for operating temperature, boundary torque, traction coefficient and friction coefficient, showing the relative advantages in extreme conditions of polyglycols, and other synthetics.
Chemical, physical and technological properties of polyethers as synthetic lubricants
Authors: Kussi S.
Published: July 2006

An extensive range of base fluids has been considered for the formulation of partially and fully synthetic lubricants. In this paper, polyethers are discussed in relation to their tribological properties and chemical structure. Physical properties are reviewed, including water solubility, viscosity‐pressure and thermal stability. Oxidation stability is discussed, and tribological examination shows significant advantages of polyethers, with various additives, in friction, gear and other tests, compared with mineral oils.
Behaviour of synthetic oils in aero engines
Authors: Maier K.
Published: July 2006

Within the framework of the high safety requirement imposed on aero engines, it is understandable that the oil for these engines should also be subject to high quality requirements. These have risen over the years alongside engine performances up to supersonic flight, where mineral oils could no longer meet the demands imposed by such high‐performance engines. They have been superseded by synthetic ester oils, especially because of their more suitable viscosity‐temperature behaviour. This paper deals with the behaviour of these synthetic oils in aero engines and concentrates on the thermo‐oxidative strength and the effects on the engine oil and the engine itself.
Scoring tests of aircraft transmission lubricants at high speeds and high tem peratures
Authors: Winter H. , Michaelis K.
Published: July 2006

Aircraft engines contain gears that have to be lubricated under conditions of high speeds and extremely high temperatures, In this field of application scoring damage can occur. In Europe and partly also in the USA the scoring load capacity of gear oils is expressed in terms of FZG Scoring Load Stage; the FZG Gear Test Rig is described. The normal test procedure A/8.3/90 as standardised in DIN 51 354 using A‐type gears at a pitch line velocity of v = 8.3 m/s and a starting oil temperature of 90°C is presented. A modified procedure at double speed and increased oil temperature A/16.6/140 is discussed. The scoring load capacity of aircraft transmission lubricants is expressed worldwide in Ryder Gear Test results. Because of the high costs and problems with the availability of test gears a modified FZG Ryder Test was developed. The method is presented and comparative results of typical aircraft engine oils in the FZG, the FZG‐Ryder and the original Ryder Gear Test are shown. From this experience it becomes obvious that alternative test methods for the evaluation of scoring load capacity of aircraft transmission lubricants can be available in the near future.
Fate of amine antioxidants during thermal oxidative ageing of neopentylpolyol ester oils: Part 1
Authors: Zeman A. , Römer R. , Von Roenne V.
Published: July 2006

The thermal‐oxidative degradation of PAN/OPAN in the primary stage in a pentaerythritol ester at 200°C was characterised by the recombination of aminyl radicals giving the corresponding dimers. Primary transformation products such as quinone imines, anils and benzophenoxazone derivatives were also found in small concentrations. A major contribution by the nitroxyl radical is not evident, and the supposed combination of an aminyl radical with the fatty acid chain of the ester was not detected.
Wear and fatigue problems in connection with water‐based hydraulic fluids
Authors: Spikes H. A.
Published: July 2006

Water‐containing fluids are widely used in hydraulic applications where there is a significant risk of fire, as in underground mining and metal working applications. Although primarily intended as power transmitting media, hydraulic fluids need to possess a modicum of lubricating ability to limit wear, seizure and contact fatigue of pumps and other rubbing parts. Unfortunately water‐based hydraulic fluids generally show significantly poorer wear and rolling‐contact fatigue performance than mineral or synthetic oil‐based fluids of similar viscosity and this means that pumping equipment usually has to be derated when used with water‐based fluids. This paper examines the poor wear and fatigue performance of water‐based fluids and discusses, in some detail, the origins of this poor performance and the ways it can be mitigated.
Synthetic base stocks for low viscosity motor oils
Authors: Willschke A. , Humbert D. , Rossi A.
Published: July 2006

Various oil formulations were studied in order to ascertain their suitability for use in automobile engine applications. They are characterised according to viscosity, VI, pourpoint and Noack volatility, and the results presented for elastomer compatibility, oxidation resistance and Cu/Pb bearing corrosion, wear, groove filling and viscosity increase in engine tests. The paper concludes that a blend of PAO and polyolesters is a useful component of a SAE 10W‐30 semi‐synthetic motor oil.
Synthetic lubricants in precision mechanisms — an overview
Authors: Tillwich Maria
Published: July 2006

This paper looks at the speciality application field of precision mechanisms, the tribological regime under which they operate, and the consequent requirements for precision lubricants. These include low evaporation rate, good drop cohesion, high ageing stability, resistance against contamination, and particularly an inertness in relation to polymers and lacquers.

The range of lubricants available today is reviewed in relation to these requirements and to the materials likely to be used in precision instruments and mechanisms, and it is concluded that since no one lubricant can solve all the problems encountered in specific mechanisms, the selected lubricant is a compromise.
Synthetic and HVI compressor lubricants
Authors: Miller J. W.
Published: July 2006

This paper reviews the optimum synthetic and semi‐synthetic lubricants for various types of compressors and gases being compressed. Several applications are given involving centrifugal, rotary, and reciprocating compressors. Gases include air, refrigerant, natural and other hydrocarbons, chemical processing and industrial. Included also are food grade air compressor applications. In addition, microlube systems for once‐through cylinder lubrication of large reciprocating compressors designed to minimize gas contamination are also described.
Correlations between the structure, physical and rheological properties in the class of neopentylpolyol esters used as lubricating oils
Authors: Nutui R. , Maties M. , Nutui M.
Published: July 2006

This paper examines the correlation between the physical and rheological properties of neopentypolyol ester used as a base oil for synthetic lubricants and the alkyl clash of the carboxylic acid used in preparation of the esters. Kinematic viscosity, viscosity index, flash point and freezing point were examined for fluids prepared by the authors, and their relationships to length and nature of the chains. The resulting data are presented.
EPR study of antioxidant action of P,p'‐dioctyldiphenyl amine
Authors: Kozakowski G. , Kolodziejski W.
Published: July 2006

This paper reports the use of Electron Parametric Resonance (EPR) for preliminary investigation of radicals formed from P,p'‐dioctyldiphenylamine (‘Irganox’, an antioxidant) during heating in a synthetic aviation lubricant base oil di‐2‐ethylhexylsebacate. Relative concentrations of radicals were found to be dependent on temperature. The results seem generally to support the concept that the antioxidant concerned is an effective scavenger of certain reactive peroxide radicals.
Tailor‐making polyalphaolefins
Authors: Shubkin R. L. , Kerkemeyer M. E.
Published: July 2006

The production of polyalphaolefins (PAOs), an important class of synthetic functional fluids, can be better controlled to form materials with given sets of desired properties than can the production of analogous petroleum based fluids. Until now, commercial PAOs have been based almost exclusively on 1‐decene as the starting material. Furthermore, they have been sold on the basis of the viscosity at 100 °C. Work at the authors' company has shown the need to focus attention on other physical properties for various alternative applications. Important properties may or may not include low temperature viscosity, pour point, volatility, high temperature stability, flash and fire point, and oxidative stability. The current work shows how the physical properties of the PAO product can be controlled by the judicious choice of starting olefin, reaction catalyst and co‐catalyst, reaction temperature, reaction time, and other pertinent reaction parameters. Comparisons are made between PAOs and hydrocracked mineral oils.
Wear characteristics of some internally lubricated and reinforced engineering polymer composites
Authors: Tewari U. S. , Bijwe J. , Logai C. M.
Published: July 2006

An interesting characteristic of abrasion is the dependence of the wear rate on the particle size of the abrasive grits used to lubricate the abrasive papers. Three types of polymers, PTFE, PA, PI, several of their composites, and three metals were selected for studying the effect of particle size on wear rate. The pins were abraded against Sic abrasive papers of various mesh sizes under constant loading in multi‐pass conditions. For some of the polymers and their composites (PA and PEI) the size effect on wear rate was similar to that for the metals. Beyond a critical particle size, no increase in wear was found with increasing particle size. On the other hand, PTFE, PI, and their composites showed the opposite effect. SEM and EDAX were used to investigate the related mechanisms.
The shear stress properties of ester lubricants in elastohydrodynamic contacts
Authors: Chang H.‐S. , Spikes H. A. , Bunemann T. F.
Published: July 2006

This paper describes a systematic study into the influence of molecular structure on lubricant shear stress in elastohydrodynamic (EHD) contacts. An infrared emission technique has been employed to measure surface temperatures in an EHD contact and thence to determine the shear stress profile of lubricant films therein. The effect of structure on shear stress has been investigated by comparing the behaviour of a range of well‐characterised, closely related, ester base fluids. Considerable variations in shear stress response to EHD conditions have been observed, depending upon the type and structure of the ester.
Tris(2‐octyldodecyl)cyclopentane, a low volatility, wide liquid range, hydrocarbon fluid
Authors: Veier C. G. , Casserly E. W. , Gunsel S.
Published: July 2006

Tris(2–octyldodecyl)cyclopentane, prepared by the hydrogenation of the product of alkylation of cyclopentadiene by 2–octyldodecanol, is a wide liquid range hydrocarbon fluid (pour point, −57°C; vapour pressure at 20 °C, 1 × 10−12). This new fluid compares favourably with other hydrocarbons and per fluoropolyethers (PFPAEs) in properties useful for vacuum applications in which low temperature fluidity and low volatility are important properties. It is half the density of PFPAE and exhibits inhibitable oxidation properties similar to other hydrocarbons. The pressure‐viscosity coefficient is similar to those of PAOs and PFPAEs.