bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ELECTROWEAKLY INTERACTING SCALAR AND GAUGE BOSONS, AND LEPTONS, FROM FIELD EQUATIONS ON SPIN (5+1)-DIMENSIONAL SPACE
Authors: BESPROSVANY J.
Published: February 2005

Unification ideas motivate the formulation of field equations on an extended matrix-spin space. Demanding that the Poincaré symmetry be maintained, one derives scalar symmetries that are associated with flavor and gauge groups. Boson and fermion solutions are obtained with a fixed representation. A field theory can be equivalently written and interpreted in terms of elements of such a space and is similarly constrained. At 5+1 dimensions, one obtains isospin and hypercharge SU (2)L× U (1) symmetries, their vector carriers, two-flavor charged and chargeless leptons, and scalar particles. Mass terms produce breaking of the symmetry to an electromagnetic U (1), a Weinberg's angle with sin 2(θW)=0.25, and additional information on the respective coupling constants. The particles' underlying spin symmetry gives information on their masses; one reproduces the Standard Model ratio MZ/MW, and predicts possible Higgs masses of MH≈114 and MH≈161 GeV, at tree level.
$B^0_{d,s}-\bar{B}^0_{d,s}$ MIXING IN THE MODEL III 2HDM
Authors: HUANG CHAO-SHANG , LI JIAN-TAO
Published: February 2005

In the model III 2HDM there are new CP violating phases which would affect the [Formula: see text] mixing. In this paper, we calculate the new physics contributions to the neutral B meson mass splitting ΔMBq (q=d,s) at the next-to-leading order (NLO) level. Using the high accuracy data and other relevant data, we draw the constraints on the parameter space of the model III 2HDM. Moreover, we calculate the new physics corrections to the ratio q/p. It is found that the phase of (q/p)n for Bd which is due to the new contributions is very small and consequently in agreement with the measurements of the time dependent CP asymmetry SJ/ψK in B→J/ψKS. On the contrary, the phase of (q/p)n for Bs is large enough to give significant effects on CP violation in the neutral Bs system.
ACCELERATING COSMOLOGIES AND INFLATION FROM M/SUPERSTRING THEORIES
Authors: OHTA NOBUYOSHI
Published: February 2005

We review the recent developments in obtaining accelerating cosmologies and/or inflation from higher-dimensional gravitational theories, in particular superstring theories in ten dimensions and M-theory in 11 dimensions. We first discuss why it is difficult to obtain inflationary behavior in the effective low-energy theories of superstring/M-theory, i.e. supergravity theories. We then summarize interesting solutions including S-branes that give rise to accelerating cosmologies and inflationary solutions in M-theory with higher order corrections. Other approaches to inflation in the string context are also briefly discussed.
ON THE NATURE OF DARK MATTER
Authors: MATOS TONATIUH , UREÑA-LÓPEZ L. ARTURO
Published: February 2005

Dark matter in the universe seems to be one of the most important puzzles science has to face in this moment. In this essay, we point out that dark matter could be a spin-0 fundamental interaction of Nature rather than a simple particle. From this hypothesis follows that dark matter behaves just as standard cold dark matter at cosmological level while still in good agreement with observations at galactic scales. This new interaction could be one of the scalar fields predicted by higher-dimensional theories.
GRAVITY AS ELASTICITY OF SPACETIME: A PARADIGM TO UNDERSTAND HORIZON THERMODYNAMICS AND COSMOLOGICAL CONSTANT
Authors: PADMANABHAN T.
Published: February 2005

It is very likely that the quantum description of spacetime is quite different from what we perceive at large scales, l≫(Gℏ/c3)1/2. The long wavelength description of spacetime, based on Einstein's equations, is similar to the description of a continuum solid made of a large number of microscopic degrees of freedom. This paradigm provides a novel interpretation of coordinate transformations as deformations of "spacetime solid" and allows one to obtain Einstein's equations as a consistency condition in the long wavelength limit. The entropy contributed by the microscopic degrees of freedom reduces to a pure surface contribution when Einstein's equations are satisfied. The horizons arises as "defects" in the "spacetime solid" (in the sense of well-defined singular points) and contributes an entropy which is one quarter of the horizon area. Finally, the response of the microstructure to vacuum energy leads to a near cancellation of the cosmological constant, leaving behind a tiny fluctuation which matches with the observed value.
TOWARDS A BACKGROUND INDEPENDENT QUANTUM THEORY OF GRAVITY
Authors: JEJJALA VISHNU , MINIC DJORDJE , TZE CHIA-HSIUNG
Published: February 2005

Any canonical quantum theory can be understood to arise from the compatibility of the statistical geometry of distinguishable observations with the canonical Poisson structure of Hamiltonian dynamics. This geometric perspective offers a novel, background independent non-perturbative formulation of quantum gravity. We invoke a quantum version of the equivalence principle, which requires both the statistical and symplectic geometries of canonical quantum theory to be fully dynamical quantities. Our approach sheds new light on such basic issues of quantum gravity as the nature of observables, the problem of time, and the physics of the vacuum. In particular, the observed numerical smallness of the cosmological constant can be rationalized in this approach.
GRAVITATION AND THE SECOND LAW OF THERMODYNAMICS
Authors: CHAMBLIN ANDREW , ERLICH JOSHUA
Published: February 2005

Just as gravitons can carry energy, they can also be used to transmit information. It follows that an entropy should be associated with gravitational degrees of freedom, independent of the presence or absence of black holes. In this essay, we discuss how one might count gravitational entropy given a classical gravitational field. Our suggestion is motivated by a derivation of the covariant entropy bound in which a gravitational term appears naturally.
A GLIMPSE AT THE FLAT-SPACETIME LIMIT OF QUANTUM GRAVITY USING THE BEKENSTEIN ARGUMENT IN REVERSE
Authors: AMELINO-CAMELIA GIOVANNI , PROCACCINI ANDREA , ARZANO MICHELE
Published: February 2005

An insightful argument for a linear relation between the entropy and the area of a black hole was given by Bekenstein using only the energy–momentum dispersion relation, the uncertainty principle, and some properties of classical black holes. Recent analyses within String Theory and Loop Quantum Gravity describe black-hole entropy in terms of a dominant contribution, which indeed depends linearly on the area, and a leading log-area correction. We argue that, by reversing the Bekenstein argument, the log-area correction can provide insight on the energy–momentum dispersion relation and the uncertainty principle of a quantum-gravity theory. As examples, we consider the energy–momentum dispersion relations that recently emerged in the Loop Quantum Gravity literature and the Generalized Uncertainty Principle that is expected to hold in String Theory.
SN 1987A — HISTORICAL VIEW ABOUT REGISTRATION OF THE NEUTRINO SIGNAL WITH BAKSAN, KAMIOKANDE II AND IMB DETECTORS
Authors: KRIVOSHEINA I. V.
Published: February 2005

The detection of neutrinos from SN 1987A opened a new era in neutrino astrophysics in the last century. We present a historical view about registration of the neutrino signal from supernova SN 1987A in the Large Magellanic Cloud by the BAKSAN liquid scintillator detector and by the two water Cherenkov detectors — Kamiokande-II and IMB. All three detectors observed a total neutrino signal of 24 events at 7:35 UT 23 February, 1987. I will concentrate mostly about the BAKSAN supernova group analysis of the neutrino signal, which was already done in the years 1987 and 1988. The results of this analysis (determination of average properties of the neutrino signal: the total energy of neutrino emission, the effective neutrino temperature, the total luminosity of the neutrino signal, duration of the neutrino burst) are presented. The common analysis of all three detectors shows that these 'parameters' have good agreement with the general theoretical description of explosions of supernovae. The analysis shows that the inclusion of the BAKSAN data is very important for the understanding of the SN87A event. The latest results of 20 years of observation of our Galaxy by the BAKSAN scintillation telescope show that the upper limit of the mean frequency of gravitational collapses is <0.13 yr-1 at a 90% confidence level.
DARK MATTER PARTICLES IN THE GALACTIC HALO: RESULTS AND IMPLICATIONS FROM DAMA/NaI
Authors: BERNABEI R. , BELLI P. , CAPPELLA F. , CERULLI R. , MONTECCHIA F. , NOZZOLI F. , INCICCHITTI A. , PROSPERI D. , DAI C. J. , KUANG H. H. , MA J. M. , YE Z. P.
Published: February 2005

The DAMA/NaI experiment (≃100 kg highly radiopure NaI(Tl)) was proposed, designed and realized to effectively investigate in a model-independent way the presence of a Dark Matter particle component in the galactic halo by exploiting the annual modulation signature. With a total exposure of 107731 kg · day, collected over seven annual cycles deep underground at the Gran Sasso National Laboratory of the I.N.F.N., it has pointed out — at 6.3σC.L. — an effect which satisfies all the peculiarities of the signature and neither systematic effects nor side reactions able to mimic the signature were found. Moreover, several (but still few with respect to the possibilities) corollary model dependent quests for the candidate particle have been carried out. In this paper the obtained results are summarized and some perspectives are discussed at some extent.
GENERALIZED QUANTUM RELATIVISTIC KINEMATICS: A STABILITY POINT OF VIEW
Authors: CHRYSSOMALAKOS C. , OKON E.
Published: February 2005

We apply Lie algebra deformation theory to the problem of identifying the stable form of the quantum relativistic kinematical algebra. As a warm up, given Galileo's conception of spacetime as input, some modest computer code we wrote zeroes in on the Poincaré-plus-Heisenberg algebra in about a minute. Further ahead, along the same path, lies a three-dimensional deformation space, with an instability double cone through its origin. We give physical as well as geometrical arguments supporting our view that moment, rather than position operators, should enter as generators in the Lie algebra. With this identification, the deformation parameters give rise to invariant length and mass scales. Moreover, standard quantum relativistic kinematics of massive, spinless particles corresponds to non-commuting moment operators, a purely quantum effect that bears no relation to spacetime non-commutativity, in sharp contrast to earlier interpretations.
CONSISTENCY IN VALUES
Authors: OWEN GUILLERMO
Published: February 2005

Given an n-person game (N, v), a reduced game (T, vT) is the game obtained if some subset T of the players assumes reasonable behavior on the part of the remaining players and uses that as a given so as to bargain within T. This "reasonable" behavior on the part of N-T must be defined in terms of some solution concept, ϕ, and so the reduced game depends on ϕ. Then, the solution concept ϕ is said to be consistent if it gives the same result to the reduced games as it does to the original game.

It turns out that, given a symmetry condition on two-person games, the Shapley value is the only consistent solution on the space of TU games. Modification of some definitions will instead give the prekernel, the prenucleolus, or the weighted Shapley values.

A generalization to NTU games is given. This works well for the class of hyperplane games, but not quite so well for general games.
A SOBOLEV SPACE APPROACH TO BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS ON THE HALF-LINE
Authors: RABIER PATRICK J. , STUART CHARLES A.
Published: February 2005

This paper addresses the existence of solutions u ∈ H1(ℝ+;ℝN) of ODE systems [Formula: see text], with boundary condition u1(0) = ξ, where u1is a (vector) component of u. Under general conditions, the problem corresponds to a functional equation involving a Fredholm operator with calculable index, which is proper on the closed bounded subsets of H1(ℝ+;ℝN). When the index is 0 and the solutions are bounded a priori, the existence follows from an available degree theory for such operators. Specific conditions are given that guarantee the existence of a priori bounds and second order equations with Dirichlet, Neumann or initial value conditions are discussed as applications.
NOD-LRR PROTEINS: Role in Host-Microbial Interactions and Inflammatory Disease
Authors: Inohara Naohiro , Chamaillard Mathias , McDonald Christine , Nuñez Gabriel
Published: February 2005

▪ Abstract  Nods are cytosolic proteins that contain a nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain (NOD). These proteins include key regulators of apoptosis and pathogen resistance in mammals and plants. A large number of Nods contain leucine-rich repeats (LRRs), hence referred to as NOD-LRR proteins. Genetic variation in several NOD-LRR proteins, including human Nod2, Cryopyrin, and CIITA, as well as mouse Naip5, is associated with inflammatory disease or increased susceptibility to microbial infections. Nod1, Nod2, Cryopyrin, and Ipaf have been implicated in protective immune responses against pathogens. Together with Toll-like receptors, Nod1 and Nod2 appear to play important roles in innate and acquired immunity as sensors of bacterial components. Specifically, Nod1 and Nod2 participate in the signaling events triggered by host recognition of specific motifs in bacterial peptidoglycan and, upon activation, induce the production of proinflammatory mediators. Naip5 is involved in host resistance to Legionella pneumophila through cell autonomous mechanisms, whereas CIITA plays a critical role in antigen presentation and development of antigen-specific T lymphocytes. Thus, NOD-LRR proteins appear to be involved in a diverse array of processes required for host immune reactions against pathogens.
Selective permeability barrier to urea in shark rectal gland
Authors: Zeidel Joshua D. , Mathai John C. , Campbell John D. , Ruiz Wily G. , Apodaca Gerard L. , Riordan John , Zeidel Mark L.
Published: February 2005

Elasmobranchs such as the dogfish shark Squalus acanthius achieve osmotic homeostasis by maintaining urea concentrations in the 300- to 400-mM range, thus offsetting to some degree ambient marine osmolalities of 900–1,000 mosmol/kgH2O. These creatures also maintain salt balance without losing urea by secreting a NaCl-rich (500 mM) and urea-poor (18 mM) fluid from the rectal gland that is isotonic with the plasma. The composition of the rectal gland fluid suggests that its epithelial cells are permeable to water and not to urea. Because previous work showed that lipid bilayers that permit water flux do not block flux of urea, we reasoned that the plasma membranes of rectal gland epithelial cells must either have aquaporin water channels or must have some selective barrier to urea flux. We therefore isolated apical and basolateral membranes from shark rectal glands and determined their permeabilities to water and urea. Apical membrane fractions were markedly enriched for Na-K-2Cl cotransporter, whereas basolateral membrane fractions were enriched for Na-K-ATPase. Basolateral membrane osmotic water permeability (Pf) averaged 4.3 ± 1.3 × 10−3 cm/s, whereas urea permeability averaged 4.2 ± 0.8 × 10−7 cm/s. The activation energy for water flow averaged 16.4 kcal/mol. Apical membrane Pf averaged 7.5 ± 1.6 × 10−4 cm/s, and urea permeability averaged 2.2 ± 0.4 × 10−7 cm/s, with an average activation energy for water flow of 18.6 kcal/mol. The relatively low water permeabilities and high activation energies argue strongly against water flux via aquaporins. Comparison of membrane water and urea permeabilities with those of artificial liposomes and other isolated biological membranes indicates that the basolateral membrane urea permeability is fivefold lower than would be anticipated for its water permeability. These results indicate that the rectal gland maintains a selective barrier to urea in its basolateral membranes.
Microarray analysis reveals pivotal divergent mRNA expression profiles early in the development of either compensated ventricular hypertrophy or heart failure
Authors: Buermans Henk P. J. , Redout Everaldo M. , Schiel Anja E. , Musters René J. P. , Zuidwijk Marian , Eijk Paul P. , van Hardeveld Cornelis , Kasanmoentalib Soemini , Visser Frans C. , Ylstra Bauke , Simonides Warner S.
Published: February 2005

Myocardial right ventricular (RV) hypertrophy due to pulmonary hypertension is aimed at normalizing ventricular wall stress. Depending on the degree of pressure overload, RV hypertrophy may progress to a state of impaired contractile function and heart failure, but this cannot be discerned during the early stages of ventricular remodeling. We tested whether critical differences in gene expression profiles exist between ventricles before the ultimate development of either a compensated or decompensated hypertrophic phenotype. Both phenotypes were selectively induced in Wistar rats by a single subcutaneous injection of either a low or a high dose of the pyrrolizidine alkaloid monocrotaline (MCT). Spotted oligonucleotide microarrays were used to investigate pressure-dependent cardiac gene expression profiles at 2 wk after the MCT injections, between control rats and rats that would ultimately develop either compensated or decompensated hypertrophy. Clustering of significantly regulated genes revealed specific expression profiles for each group, although the degree of hypertrophy was still similar in both. The ventricles destined to progress to failure showed activation of pro-apoptotic pathways, particularly related to mitochondria, whereas the group developing compensated hypertrophy showed blocked pro-death effector signaling via p38-MAPK, through upregulation of MAPK phosphatase-1. In summary, we show that, already at an early time point, pivotal differences in gene expression exist between ventricles that will ultimately develop either a compensated or a decompensated phenotype, depending on the degree of pressure overload. These data reveal genes that may provide markers for the early prediction of clinical outcome as well as potential targets for early intervention.
RALGA (Diacnéal®) Decreases Melanin Content in a Human Skin Model
Authors: Boisnic Sylvie , Branchet-Gumila Marie-Christine , Nocera Thérèse , Verrière François
Published: February 2005

Background: Retinaldehyde and glycolic acid RALGA (Diacnéal®) are both effective in the topical treatment of acne. A decrease in the postinflammatory pigmentation has been observed after application of Diacnéal during 3 months. Aim: To verify the effect of this association on pigmentation using an original model of surviving human skin. Methods: Human skin explants were maintained alive in organ culture for 14 days. Diacnéal® was applied every day. Pigmentation of skin, depending on the transfer of melanosomes from melanocytes to keratinocytes, was visualized histologically by Fontana-Masson staining. The number of melanocytes was determined after the DOPA reaction. Results: A decrease in melanin content was shown after application of Diacnéal. The number of melanocytes was not modified. Conclusion: These results suggest that RALGA (Diacnéal®) may be of interest to prevent the postinflammatory pigmentation of acne.
Salt in the Wound: A Possible Role of Na+ Gradient in Chlamydial Infection
Authors: Dibrov Pavel , Dibrov Elena , Pierce Grant N. , Galperin Michael Y.
Published: February 2005

Genome analysis has revealed the presence of key components of the Na+ chemiosmotic cycle, including the primary Na+ pump (Na+-translocating NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase), in the cytoplasmic membrane of two ubiquitous human pathogens, Chlamydia trachomatis and Chlamydiophyla pneumoniae. This observation seemed paradoxical in the case of obligatory intracellular parasites because the Na+ cycle is thought to be primarily a mechanism that enhances the adaptive potential in free-living bacteria that are often facing drastic changes in the salinity and pH of the environment. We present a model suggesting that operation of the Na+ cycle may play an important role in the course of chlamydial infection, when the Na+ and H+ homeostasis of the host cell become severely impaired. This introduces the intriguing possibility of the application of drugs targeting Na+-transporting enzymes to chlamydial infections, which are notoriously difficult to treat.
Membrane Targeting of a Bacterial Virulence Factor Harbouring an Extended Signal Peptide
Authors: Chevalier Nina , Moser Michael , Koch Hans-Georg , Schimz Karl-Ludwig , Willery Eve , Locht Camille , Jacob-Dubuisson Françoise , Müller Matthias
Published: February 2005

Filamentous haemagglutinin (FHA) is the major adhesin of Bordetella pertussis, the whooping cough agent. FHA is synthesized as a 367-kDa precursor harbouring a remarkably long signal peptide with an N-terminal extension that is conserved among related virulence proteins. FHA is secreted via the two-partner secretion pathway that involves transport across the outer membrane by a cognate transporter protein. Here we have analyzed the mechanism by which FHA is targeted to, and translocated across, the inner membrane. Studies were performed both in vitro using Escherichia coli inside-out inner membrane vesicles and in vivo by pulse-chase labelling of Bordetella pertussis cells. The data collectively indicate that like classical periplasmic and outer membrane proteins, FHA requires SecA and SecB for its export through the SecYEG translocon in the inner membrane. Although short nascent chains of FHA were found to cross-link to signal recognition particle (SRP), we did not obtain indication for an SRP-dependent, co-translational membrane targeting provoked by the FHA signal sequence. Our results rule out that the extended signal peptide of FHA determines a specific mode of membrane targeting but rather suggest that it might influence the export rate at the inner membrane.
How Tyrosine Phosphorylation Affects the UDP-Glucose Dehydrogenase Activity of Bacillus subtilis YwqF
Authors: Mijakovic Ivan , Petranovic Dina , Deutscher Josef
Published: February 2005

The UDP-glucose dehydrogenase activity of Bacillus subtilis YwqF is regulated by reversible phosphorylation on a tyrosine residue. This reaction, which is catalyzed by the protein-tyrosine kinase YwqD, activates the enzyme, while dephosphorylation of phosphotyrosine-YwqF by the phosphotyrosine-protein phosphatase YwqE reduces its enzyme activity. Our kinetic data indicate that the phosphorylated and unphosphorylated forms of YwqF differ in binding the substrates. The UDP-glucose dehydrogenase reaction catalyzed by YwqF is inhibited by one of its substrates, UDP-glucose, and the extent of this inhibition seems to be reduced upon YwqF phosphorylation. We propose that this effect could at least partly account for the observed activation of YwqF induced by tyrosine phosphorylation. Potential physiological implications of this finding are discussed.
Identification of Mimotopes of the Japanese Encephalitis Virus Envelope Protein using Phage-Displayed Combinatorial Peptide Library
Authors: Lin Cheng-Wen , Wu Suh-Chin
Published: February 2005

The phage-displayed combinatorial peptide library is a revolutionary method for discovering epitopes, in particular conformational epitopes. In this study, we characterized a Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) conformational epitope by biopanning of phage-displayed random peptide libraries with a JEV envelope (E) protein-specific monoclonal antibody (mAb) 2H2. Eleven identified phage clones with high affinity to mAb 2H2 were identified using direct and inhibitory binding ELISA. Sequence alignment, structure modeling and mutational analysis revealed that the identified mimotopes for mAb 2H2 possess a conserved motif X1(D/E)(Y/T/S)X2, fitting into a region at the domain III lateral surface of the E protein. The results of our study could provide useful information on the development of effective mimotope-based vaccines and diagnostic kits for the JEV infection.
Biological Implications of Mycobacterium leprae Gene Expression during Infection
Authors: Williams Diana L. , Torrero Marina , Wheeler Paul R. , Truman Richard W. , Yoder Mark , Morrison Norman , Bishai William R. , Gillis Thomas P.
Published: February 2005

The genome of Mycobacterium leprae, the etiologic agent of leprosy, has been sequenced and annotated revealing a genome in apparent disarray and in stark contrast to the genome of the related human pathogen, M. tuberculosis. With less than 50% coding capacity of a 3.3-Mb genome and 1,116 pseudogenes, the remaining genes help define the minimal gene set necessary for in vivo survival of this mycobacterial pathogen as well as genes potentially required for infection and pathogenesis seen in leprosy. To identify genes transcribed during infection, we surveyed gene transcripts from M. leprae growing in athymic nude mice using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and cross-species DNA microarray technologies. Transcripts were detected for 221 open reading frames, which included genes involved in DNA replication, cell division, SecA-dependent protein secretion, energy production, intermediary metabolism, iron transport and storage and genes associated with virulence. These results suggest that M. leprae actively catabolizes fatty acids for energy, produces a large number of secretory proteins, utilizes the full array of sigma factors available, produces several proteins involved in iron transport, storage and regulation in the absence of recognizable genes encoding iron scavengers and transcribes several genes associated with virulence in M. tuberculosis. When transcript levels of 9 of these genes were compared from M. leprae derived from lesions of multibacillary leprosy patients and infected nude mouse foot pad tissue using quantitative real-time RT-PCR, gene transcript levels were comparable for all but one of these genes, supporting the continued use of the foot pad infection model for M. leprae gene expression profiling. Identifying genes associated with growth and survival during infection should lead to a more comprehensive understanding of the ability of M. leprae to cause disease.
Changes of Epidermal Mu-Opiate Receptor Expression and Nerve Endings in Chronic Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Bigliardi-Qi M. , Lipp B. , Sumanovski L.T. , Buechner S.A. , Bigliardi P.L.
Published: February 2005

There is increasing evidence that neuropeptides such as a substance P, neurotrophins or β-endorphin, an endogenous agonist for µ-opioid receptor, are involved in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis in which mental stress and scratching deteriorate the disease. µ-Opioid receptor, a G-protein-coupled receptor, can be downregulated and internalized by agonists and other factors in vitro. In this study, we investigated the regulation of µ-opioid receptor and nerve endings in atopic dermatitis patients. Skin biopsies from atopic dermatitis patients revealed a significant downregulation of µ-opiate receptor expression in epidermis of atopic dermatitis. Permeabilization of the skin showed that the receptor in keratinocytes from atopic dermatitis is internalized. The mRNA expression pattern of the µ-opiate receptor is different in epidermis taken from patients with chronic atopic dermatitis compared to normal skin. In atopic dermatitis, the mRNA is concentrated in the subcorneal layers of the epidermis and in normal skin in the suprabasal layers. Staining of the nerve endings using protein gene product 9.5 shows a different pattern of epidermal nerve endings in normal skin compared to atopic dermatitis. In normal skin, the epidermal nerve endings are rather thick. However, in atopic dermatitis, the epidermal nerve endings are thin and run straight through the epidermis. Based on these observations and combining the ‘intensity’ and ‘pattern’ hypothesis, we propose a new theory especially for histamine-unrelated, peripheral induction of chronic pruritus. We suggest that ‘itch’ is elicited in the epidermal unmyelinated nerve C-fibers and ‘pain’ in the dermal unmyelinated nerve fibers. The downregulation of the opioid receptor in the epidermis contributes to the chronic itching. We call this new hypothesis the ‘layer hypothesis’.
Rosacea: An Update
Authors: Buechner Stanislaw A.
Published: February 2005

Rosacea is a common chronic cutaneous disorder of unknown etiology which occurs most commonly in middle-aged individuals. Cutaneous manifestations include transient or persistent facial erythema, telangiectasia, edema, papules and pustules that are usually confined to the central portion of the face. The National Rosacea Society’s Expert Committee on the Classification and Staging of Rosacea identified four subtypes of rosacea: erythematotelangiectatic, papulopustular, phymatous and ocular. Recently, a standard grading system for assessing gradations of the severity of rosacea has been reported. Little is known about the cause of rosacea. Genetic, environmental, vascular, inflammatory factors and microorganisms such as Demodex folliculorum and Helicobacter pylori have been considered. Topical metronidazole and azelaic acid have been demonstrated to be effective treatments for rosacea. Severer or persistent cases may be treated with oral metronidazole, tetracyclines or isotretinoin.
The Role of HLA A2 and Cw2 in the Pathogenesis of Human Demodicosis
Authors: Mumcuoglu Kosta Y. , Akilov Oleg E.
Published: February 2005

Background: Demodicosis is a chronic skin disease caused by parasitic mites of the genus Demodex. It usually affects the face area causing major esthetical problems. The pathogenesis of demodicosis is not fully understood; however, it is quite apparent that immunological mechanisms mediate its development. Objective: The goal of this study was to study the correlation between immunological and immunogenetic data obtained from patients with demodicosis in order to clarify the pathogenesis of Demodex infestation. Methods: Twenty-five patients with demodicosis and 13 age- and sex-matched healthy subjects participated in the study. The presence of mites was determined by microscopic inspection of sebum gland secretions. The immune response was evaluated by identifying membrane markers of different immune cells using monoclonal antibodies (anti-CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, CD16+, CD20+ and CD95+) while the concentration of IgA, IgM and IgG was measured by simple radial immunodiffusion. The level of circulating immune complexes and total hemolytic complement as well as the preparatory and digestive function of neutrophils and the functional activity of leukocytes were also studied. Patients were typed for HLA A, B, Bw and Cw using the microlymphocytotoxicity method. Results: The comparison between patients with and without the A2 phenotype showed that the latter have lower numbers of CD8+, lower functional activity of leukocytes, higher concentrations of IgA, larger affected skin areas and are more often affected by deep papular and papulopustular forms of demodicosis than those with the A2 phenotype, showing that this allele has a protective role in demodicosis. Patients exhibiting the Cw2 phenotypes were rather susceptible to demodicosis. They showed decreased numbers of CD3+, increased levels of phagocytic activity, higher mite density and severer skin damage as compared to patients lacking Cw2. Conclusions: The HLA A2 and Cw2 phenotypes have an important diagnostic, prognostic and pathogenetic significance and could play a role in resistance or susceptibility to demodicosis by regulating the end phase of the immune response.
Maggot Debridement Therapy in the Treatment of Chronic Wounds in a Military Hospital Setup in Turkey
Authors: Tanyuksel Mehmet , Araz Engin , Dundar Kadir , Uzun Gunalp , Gumus Tuna , Alten Bulent , Saylam Fatma , Taylan-Ozkan Aysegul , Mumcuoglu Kosta Y.
Published: February 2005

Background: The medicinal use of maggots for the biological debridement of chronic wounds is increasing around the world, due to its efficacy, safety and simplicity. Thousands of patients have been treated in private and governmental hospitals during the last 10 years. Objective: To examine the efficacy of maggot debridement therapy (MDT) in the debridement of chronic wounds in a militaryhospital. Methods: MDT was applied for 1–9 days to 7 male and 4 female soldiers or their family members (21–72 years old) with chronic wounds. Results: Complete debridement was achieved in 10 out of 11 patients, while in 1 patient the wound could be cleaned only partially. A remarkable reduction in the odor emanating from the wound and notable granulation were observed in all debrided wounds. Increased pain was observed in 1 patient with a venous stasis ulcer. Conclusion: We believe that MDT is a rapid and effective method for the debridement of chronic wounds in a military environment especially in times of war in developing countries.
Systemic Immediate Allergic Reactions to Arthropod Stings and Bites
Authors: Bircher Andreas J.
Published: February 2005

Most of the encounters with biting and stinging insects result in more or less pronounced localized reactions. Typically, urticarial wheals and papular reactions are observed. Less often local bullous or hemorrhagic or disseminated papular reactions, particularly in children and immunologically naive adults, may be seen. With the exception of bee and wasp venom allergies, immediate-type allergic reactions to arthropod stings and bites are rare. Systemic IgE-mediated hypersensitivity has also been reported from additional hymenoptera species, e.g. hornets, bumble bees and ants. Rare are systemic reactions to mosquitoes, flies or kissing bugs and exceptional from ticks, bed bugs, moths, caterpillars and spiders. A major problem is the often lacking standardization of extracts for skin testing and for the determination of specific IgE. Some of the allergens have been characterized and few of them synthesized using recombinant techniques. Most investigations have been made with whole-body extracts or extracts from salivary glands, while desensitization has rarely been attempted. Currently, primary prevention by avoidance of stings and bites, and adequate instruction of sensitized individuals in the use of emergency drugs are mandatory.
Sexually Transmitted Infections in Switzerland: Return of the Classics
Authors: Lautenschlager Stephan
Published: February 2005

Recent trends in western Europe show an increase in sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Available surveillance data in Switzerland confirm this rising trend. Gonorrhoea rates more than doubled between 1996 and 2003, and for Chlamydia there was a 64% increase from 1999 to 2003. Notifications of syphilis cases almost doubled in the year 2002 and rose to 174% compared to the period of 1998–2001. The resurgence of syphilis in 2002 and 2003 was most important in Zurich and Geneva with 54 and 24% of all cases, respectively. Eighty-four percent occurred in males, 40% affecting males who had sex with males, and at least 17% were HIV co-infected. For 2004, further increases in these bacterial STIs are expected. Increased awareness of the symptoms and signs of acute infections is needed as well as considering the diagnosis of STIs in patients with vague symptoms. In addition, laboratory reporting or mandatory disease notifications are needed to monitor syphilis trends in Switzerland.
Vulvar Dermatoses – Irritant and Allergic Contact Dermatitis of the Vulva
Authors: Bauer A. , Rödiger C. , Greif C. , Kaatz M. , Elsner P.
Published: February 2005

Irritant and allergic contact dermatitis are commonly seen in patients complaining about itching, burning and irritation in the vulvar area. Irritation often precedes allergic sensitization. Clinically, irritant and allergic contact dermatitis can be difficult to distinguish. Diagnosis is made by history, clinical investigation and patch testing. Recommended patch test series are the standard series, a medicament series, the patient’s own topical medicaments, popular remedies and other suspected products. A skin biopsy may be useful to establish the diagnosis of contact dermatitis, but it is usually not helpful for the differential diagnosis between irritant and allergic dermatitis.
Dermatoses of the Male Genital Area
Authors: Eichmann Alfred R.
Published: February 2005

This is an overview of dermatoses which are predominantly seen in the genital area. Five large groups of dermatoses can be distinguished: inflammatory dermatoses without any causative organism, infections and dermatoses originating from cutaneous appendages, precancerous lesions, pigmented lesions and genital pruritus. The etiology, causative factors, clinical features and newer treatment options are considered. Because of local environmental factors, genital dermatoses often present in a different way than in other localizations.
The Mystical Effects of Dermatological Vehicles
Authors: Surber Christian , Smith Eric W.
Published: February 2005

Topical treatment of the skin is as old as the evolution of man. Instinctively, we try to treat a skin injury or irritation with cooling or soothing substances. Even animals lick their wounds, trusting instinctively in the healing power of saliva. When did this archaic pattern of treatment take the gigantic leap from folk medicine to modern drug therapy? This text illustrates the evolution of topical dermatological vehicles, their application (guidelines) and future use. In particular, a phenomenon that has so far been ignored in product development and clinical testing is the vehicle metamorphosis. In clinical and experimental situations, most dermatological vehicles undergo considerable changes after they have been removed from the primary container and are applied to the skin. Subsequently, the initial structural matrix, and the quantitative composition of the vehicle, will most likely change during and after the mechanical shear associated with application of the product and/or evaporation of ingredients. This natural, but highly dynamic process will generate mini-environments for the active moiety that are difficult to predict and that are crucial to the fate of the active moiety. Despite the reasonable wishes of formulators, clinicians, patients and customers, there are still no universal vehicles. Each drug, at each concentration, requires a different vehicle for optimized therapy. Stability and compatibility of excipients and active moiety are crucial for any commercially available pharmaceutical or cosmetic formulation, together with local and systemic safety of all components. Nonetheless, more diverse and molecularly complex classes of new dermatological vehicles are continuously being researched and refined. The scientific progress has been remarkable when one considers the simple emulsion mixtures that were commonplace in dermatological therapy and still persist to this day in commercial products. It is to be hoped that the result of these research endeavors will be the emergence of more innovative topical formulations, applying engineered bioavailability control systems, with broader applications in topical therapeutic and cosmetic vehicles.
Teledermatology: Just Cool or a Real Tool?
Authors: Burg Günter , Hasse Urs , Cipolat Claudio , Kropf Roger , Djamei Vahid , Soyer H. Peter , Chimenti Sergio
Published: February 2005

Telemedicine is the practice of healthcare using interactive audio, visual and data communication. This includes healthcare delivery, diagnoses, consultation and treatment as well as education and transfer of medical data. The transmission of multimedia streams has remained a major challenge. Although the Internet remains basically insecure, technology allows today to define and implement complete security profiles for specific (medical) communities. Data security is a must as in all other areas of applied medicine. Teledermatology offers possibilities in consulting, continuous medical education or teleteaching. In the future, consulting and asking for a second opinion will be the gold standard of medical care. The quality of healthcare will be improved without saving direct costs. However, indirect costs such as time and effort for the patient and the citizen will be reduced.
Effect of Specific and Non-Specific Inhibition of COX-2 on Renal Oxygenation before and after Water Diuresis
Authors: Gilbert Scott , Zuo Chun , Epstein Franklin H.
Published: February 2005

Background/Aims: Water diuresis usually increases medullary oxygenation as a result of increased medullary synthesis of prostaglandins, but it is not clear whether this involves activation of cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1) or cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Methods: The effects of celecoxib, a selective inhibitor of COX-2, and of ibuprofen, a non-specific inhibitor of COX-1 and COX-2, upon renal oxygenation during water diuresis were studied in a double-blind, prospective manner in 13 young women (age 24–34 years) using blood-oxygen level dependent magnetic resonance imaging. Celecoxib 200 mg b.i.d. for 4 days was compared with ibuprofen 80 mg b.i.d. for 4 days and with a placebo. Results: There was no effect of either drug on urinary volume, urinary osmolal concentration, or creatinine clearance. Water diuresis alone elicited a significant increase in oxygenation in borderline areas between cortex and medulla, which was eliminated by celecoxib or ibuprofen. Conclusion: Renal medullary oxygenation is improved by water diuresis in normal young women in a way that is blocked by a selective inhibitor of COX-2 as well as non-selective cyclooxygenase inhibitors. Selective COX-2 may be expected to have significant effects on renal functions.
The Baromodulatory Effect of Gamma Knife Irradiation of the Hypothalamus in the Obese Zucker Rat
Authors: Vincent David A. , Alden Tord D. , Kamiryo Toshifumi , Lopez Beatrice , Ellegala Dilantha , Laurent Jeffrey J. , Butler Michael , Vance Mary Lee , Laws Jr. Edward R.
Published: February 2005

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect on body weight set point over time of focused, subnecrotic doses of radiation via gamma knife (GK) to the hypothalamus of the genetically obese Zucker rat. Methods: A total of 36 adolescent animals were used in this experiment and placed in 6 groups of 6. The genetically obese homozygous Zucker rat was used in 4 groups (n = 24) and received GK, subcutaneous cobalt protoporphyrin (CoPP), both treatments combined or sham treatment. The heterozygous lean Zucker rat was used in 2 control groups (n = 12) and received either GK or sham treatment. All animals were weighed at the beginning of the experiment and at weekly intervals for 34 weeks. GK irradiation was accomplished using a specially designed stereotactic frame and a total dose of 40 Gy was given to 2 nearby targets in the medial hypothalamus. The drug subgroups received weekly subcutaneous injections. All animals were housed in the same environment with unlimited access to food. Results: There were no significant differences in weight between the lean GK and sham groups. For the obese cohort, beginning at week 7 and throughout the remainder of the experiment, there were significant and sustained reductions in weight set point for animals that received GK (p < 0.05) and CoPP (p < 0.05) compared to sham-treated animals. Curiously, there was no statistical difference between the combined treatment and sham subgroups, though there was a trend toward weight reduction (p < 0.10). With the exception of one animal in the obese GK cohort in which there was a small area of necrosis lateral to the target area, histopathological analysis failed to reveal any abnormalities. There were no gross behavioral abnormalities noted. Conclusion: Our experimental results suggest that a single dose of GK irradiation to the hypothalamus can produce sustained reduction in the weight set point without emaciation in adolescent animals. The effect of this treatment is comparable to a well-studied drug therapy with a metalloporphyrin. We hypothesize that this involves a resetting of the hypothalamic set point for body weight through an as yet uncharacterized neuromodulatory effect.
Chlamydia pneumoniae Infection as a Risk Factor for Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Yoneda Hiroshi , Ouchi Kazunobu , Ogawa Akira , Kunitsugu Ichiro , Fujisawa Hirosuke , Akimura Tatsuo , Kato Shoichi , Suzuki Michiyasu
Published: February 2005

Many risk factors for subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), such as hypertension and recent infection, have already been established. Chlamydia pneumoniae is a common respiratory pathogen that has been implicated as a potential risk factor for hypertension and atherosclerotic diseases. The purpose of the case-control study presented here was to examine the causative relationship between C. pneumoniae infection and SAH. Serum C. pneumoniae IgG and IgA antibodies were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in 52 patients with SAH and in 104 healthy age-matched control subjects. Multivariate analysis revealed a significant association between SAH and both a strong seropositivity for IgG and/or IgA antibodies against C. pneumoniae (odds ratio, OR, 3.62; 95% confidence intervals, CI, 1.06–12.39; p = 0.040), which indicates the presence of acute C. pneumoniae infection, and hypertension (OR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.42–5.96; p = 0.0035). These results provide evidence that infection with C. pneumoniae may be a risk factor for SAH from a ruptured intracranial aneurysm.
Aphasia following Striatocapsular Infarction May Be Explained by Concomitant Small Cortical Infarct on Diffusion-Weighted Imaging
Authors: Han Moon-Ku , Kang Dong-Wha , Jeong Sang-Wuk , Roh Jae-Kyu
Published: February 2005

Background: The underlying mechanism of aphasia following striatocapsular infarction (SCI) remains controversial. We hypothesized that aphasia resulting from SCI might be associated with concomitant cortical lesions, which can be demonstrated by diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). Methods: We analyzed 24 patients with left SCI who underwent DWI and MR angiography within 2 days after the onset. Aphasia was assessed by the modified Korean version of the Boston Diagnostic Aphasia Examination test. Results: DWI showed the presence of additional ischemic lesions involving the cortical areas in 13 of 24 SCI patients (54%). Ten patients (42%) showed aphasia. All 10 patients with aphasia had cortical lesions in addition to SCI (p = 0.0002), whereas 21% (3/14) of the nonaphasic patients had additional cortical lesions. Conventional MRI did not reveal the presence of corresponding acute cortical lesions in any of the aphasic patients. There was no difference between the patients with and without aphasia in terms of their stroke etiology. Conclusions: Our data suggest that aphasia due to SCI in the acute stage may be attributed to direct cortical injury, whose presence can be demonstrated by DWI, even though it might be invisible on conventional imaging.