bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Density functional theory analyses of bis(bipyridine)ruthenium noninnocent quinonoid and thiolosulfinato complexes containing ligands formally in the semiquinone oxidation state
Authors: Lever A. B.P.
Published: October 2009

Density functional theory and the polarized continuum model are used to derive the electronic structures of some open-shell, bis(bipyridine)ruthenium complexes bound to noninnocent quinonoid or thiolosulfinato ligands formally in the semiquinone oxidation state. The noninnocent properties of the o-thiolosulfinato ligand are explored and compared with those of the more conventional o-semiquinones with nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur donor atoms. Spin densities are shown to be fairly localized in the metallocycle ring. It is demonstrated that oxidation of the parent [RuII(bpy)2(1,2-(S,SO2)–C6H4] species occurs primarily in the metallocycle ring and is localized in the Ru–S0bond.
Neptunium(VII) in high-ionic-strength alkaline solutions — [NpO2(OH)4]1– or [NpO4(OH)2]3–?
Authors: Wren John E. C. , Schreckenbach Georg
Published: October 2009

Relativistic density functional theory (ZORA-PBE, COSMO solvation) is used to address the title question, based on comparison with recent experimental data ( 1 ). Structural data (bond lengths), vibrational frequencies, and 17O NMR chemical shifts are used to prove that [NpO4(OH)2]3– is the predominant species in high-ionic-strength alkaline solutions of NpVII. Neptunium(VII) complexes have stronger bonds than their formally isoelectronic uranium(VI) analogues. The experimentally observed 300 ppm shift in 17O chemical shifts between the known [UO2(OH)4]2– and NpVII solution is shown to be partly a function of the central metal (NpVII vs. UVI) and not of the coordination environment (tetraoxo vs. dioxo). Comparing, for a given An (UVI or NpVII), actinyl complexes [AnO2X4]2–/1–, X = Cl, F, OH, a decreasing strength of the axial actinyl bond is observed that is traced to electronic factors (equatorial π-competition).
The Dewar–Chatt–Duncanson model reversed — Bonding analysis of group-10 complexes [(PMe3)2M–EX3] (M = Ni, Pd, Pt; E = B, Al, Ga, In, Tl; X = H, F, Cl, Br, I)
Authors: Goedecke Catharina , Hillebrecht Pierre , Uhlemann Till , Haunschild Robin , Frenking Gernot
Published: October 2009

Quantum chemical calculations using BP86 with TZ2P basis sets were carried out to elucidate the structures and the bond–bond dissociation energies of the donor–acceptor complexes [(PMe3)2M–EX3] with X = H, F, Cl, Br, I; E = B, Al, Ga, In, Tl; and M = Ni, Pd, Pt. The nature of the metal–ligand bond was investigated with an energy decomposition analysis. The geometry optimizations gave for most compounds T-shaped structures with nearly linear P–M–P angles where the EX3 ligand has either a staggered or eclipsed conformation with respect to the PMP plane. The energy differences between the conformations are very small which means that there is nearly free rotation about the M–EX3 axis. The equilibrium structures of eight nickel compounds have a distorted geometry where one E–X bond is engaged in attractive interactions with the metal atom which yields a distorted square-planar arrangement of the metal atom. The complex [(PMe3)2Ni–TlI3] exhibits two attractive interactions between Tl–I bonds and the metal which features a five-coordinated metal atom. The calculated bond dissociation energies show that the boron complexes exhibit a different trend for the De values than the heavier group-13 homologues. The results for the Pd and Pt complexes suggest that the [(PMe3)2M–BX3] bond strength increases with F < Cl < Br < I < H which means that the BH3 ligands are the most strongly bonded Lewis acids and BF3 is the most weakly bonded species . The trend for the heavier group-13 complexes [(PMe3)2M–EX3] where E = Al, Ga, In, Tl follows the opposite order F > Cl > Br > I > H. The energy decomposition analysis of the M–EX3 bonds indicates a substantial π contribution of between 12.7% and 30.3% to the total orbital interactions. There is no direct correlation between the strength of the orbital interactions or any of the other energy terms ΔEelstat or ΔEPauli which correlates with the total interaction energy. The bond dissociation energy of the EX3 ligands after breaking the M–EX3 bonds is quite large. It is shown that the intrinsic strength of the M–EX3 bonds is much larger than the BDEs and that the trends of ΔEint and De are not always the same. The EX3 ligands in [(PMe3)2M–BX3] always carry a large negative charge.
The flattening phase transition in systems of trapped ions
Authors: Closson Taunia L. L. , Roussel Marc R.
Published: October 2009

When the anisotropy of a harmonic ion trap is increased, the ions eventually collapse into a two-dimensional structure consisting of concentric shells of ions. This collapse generally behaves like a second-order phase transition. A graph of the critical value of the anisotropy parameter vs. the number of ions displays substructure closely related to the inner-shell configurations of the clusters. The critical exponent for the order parameter of this phase transition (maximum extent in the z direction) was found computationally to have the value β = 1/2. A second critical exponent related to displacements perpendicular to the z axis was found to have the value δ = 1. Using these estimates of the critical exponents, we derive an equation that relates the amplitudes of the displacements of the ions parallel to the x–y plane to the amplitudes along the z axis during the flattening process.
A quantum mechanical approach to ligand binding — Calculation of ligand–protein binding affinities for stromelysin-1 (MMP-3) inhibitors
Authors: Li Jian , Reynolds Charles. H.
Published: October 2009

Linear-scaling quantum mechanical method was applied to calculate binding affinities of six stromelysin-1 (MMP-3) inhibitors with two different zinc binding groups (ZBGs). The entire protein and ligand–protein complexes were calculated using PM5 Hamiltonian, which enables the treatment of metal ion coordination, bond forming/breaking, and proton/charge transfers associated with the ligand binding process by the self-consistent field method. The calculated binding energies reproduce the binding-affinity trend observed experimentally.
Estimating forest conversion rates with annual forest inventory data
Authors: Van Deusen Paul C. , Roesch Francis A.
Published: October 2009

The rate of land-use conversion from forest to nonforest or natural forest to forest plantation is of interest for forest certification purposes and also as part of the process of assessing forest sustainability. Conversion rates can be estimated from remeasured inventory plots in general, but the emphasis here is on annual inventory data. A new estimator is proposed based on analysis of plot-level variables that indicate when a change in forest condition occurs between inventory remeasurements. A weighted maximum likelihood estimator is derived that incorporates the binomial nature of the indicator variables, mapped plot conditions, and varying remeasurement periods. Example applications demonstrate the utility of the proposed methodology. This approach is broadly useful for estimating the annual rate of change from an initial condition to another condition from annual forest inventory data.
Relationships between stand growth and structural diversity in spruce-dominated forests in New Brunswick, Canada
Authors: Lei Xiangdong , Wang Weifeng , Peng Changhui
Published: October 2009

Relationships between stand growth and structural diversity were examined in spruce-dominated forests in New Brunswick, Canada. Net growth, survivor growth, mortality, and recruitment represented stand growth, and tree species, size, and height diversity indices were used to describe structural diversity. Mixed-effects second-order polynomial regressions were employed for statistical analysis. Results showed stand structural diversity had a significant positive effect on net growth and survivor growth by volume but not on mortality and recruitment. Among the tested diversity indices, the integrated diversity of tree species and height contributed most to stand net growth and survivor growth. Structural diversity showed increasing trends throughout the developmental stages from young, immature, mature, and overmature forest stands. This relationship between stand growth and structural diversity may be due to stands featuring high structural diversity that enhances niche complementarities of resource use because trees exist within different horizontal and vertical layers, and strong competition resulted from size differences among trees. It is recommended to include effects of species and structural diversity in forest growth modeling initiatives. Moreover, uneven-aged stand management in conjunction with selective or partial cutting to maintain high structural diversity is also recommended to maintain biodiversity and rapid growth in spruce-dominated forests.
Mapping fuels in the Chihuahuan Desert borderlands using remote sensing, geographic information systems, and biophysical modeling
Authors: Poulos H. M.
Published: October 2009

This study integrated field, geographic information systems, and remotely sensed data to generate spatially explicit fuel maps for Big Bend National Park in Texas and the Maderas del Carmen Protected Area in Coahuila, Mexico. We used hierarchical cluster analysis, and classification and regression trees to (i) identify the dominant fuel types in each of the study areas and (ii) build spatially explicit predictive fuels maps. Four fuel types were identified that differed significantly in their live and dead fuel characteristics. Spectral characteristics, topographic position, soil moisture, and solar radiation were the major influences on fuel distribution patterns. Fine-fuel loads were highest in open woodlands on lower topographic positions that had high grass cover. The highest shrub loadings were found on exposed, upper topographic positions. Timber-type fuel loads with high 1, 10, 100, and 1000 hour fuels loads dominated high-elevation valley bottoms. The error rates of the maps were approximately 16%, which falls within the range of typical fuel mapping misclassification rates. The map products from this study are currently being used as inputs for landscape-scale fire modeling and for guiding fuel-reduction treatments using fire and fire surrogates, such as thinning.
Interspecific variation in leaf litter production, decomposition, and nitrogen and phosphorus loss from decomposing leaves in a humid subtropical forest ecosystem of northeastern India
Authors: Kamei Jenpuiru , Barik S. K. , Pandey H. N.
Published: October 2009

Studies providing direct experimental evidence of species impact on litter dynamics in forest ecosystems are limited. The decomposition processes in subtropical forests are also poorly understood. We studied variation in quality and quantity of leaf litter production, decomposition, and N and P loss from decomposing foliar litter in three tree species as well as a mixed-species plot in a subtropical broad-leaved forest of northeastern India. The annual leaf litter production was highest in Rhododendron arboreum Sm. (7293 kg·ha–1·year–1) followed by Myrica esculenta Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don (6902 kg·ha–1·year–1), mixed plots (6808 kg·ha–1·year–1), and Neolitsea cassia (L.) Kosterm (6299 kg·ha–1·year–1). The annual N and P inputs through litter were highest in the mixed plot (N, 111.0 kg·ha–1·year–1; P, 4.8 kg·ha–1·year–1) and lowest in the Rhododendron plot (N, 65.6 kg·ha–1·year–1; P, 2.9 kg·ha–1·year–1). The highest decay rate was recorded for Neolitsea (k = 0.89) and lowest for Myrica (k = 0.53) litter. The rate of N loss was highest for Neolitsea (kN= 1.39) and lowest for Myrica (kN= 0.68) species, and P loss was in the order of mixed (kP= 1.02) > Neolitsea (kP= 0.88) > Rhododendron(kP= 0.84) > Myrica (kP= 0.62). Acid-insoluble residue, which indicates lignin content and P-related litter chemistry, were correlated with the differential decomposition rates and nutrient loss pattern among the species.
Aggregation of preferences in participatory forest planning with multiple criteria: an application to the urban forest in Lycksele, Sweden
Authors: Nordström Eva-Maria , Romero Carlos , Eriksson Ljusk Ola , Öhman Karin
Published: October 2009

A promising approach for participatory forest management planning is the combination of multiple-criteria decision-making and group decision making. A crucial part of the participatory multiple-criteria decision-making process is the aggregation of individual stakeholder preferences into a collective preference. In this study, an approach based on the determination of cardinal compromise consensus was applied to a real case of participatory forest planning. Consensus matrices for four different social groups were established from stakeholder preferences in the form of pairwise comparisons of different sets of criteria. Criteria weights were obtained for each social group and used to determine rankings of 12 forest management plans. The rankings of the social groups were aggregated to determine consensus solutions for the choice of the best forest management plan from a collective perspective. In the procedure, control parameters and a distance metric were employed to find solutions that balance the points of view of the majority and the minority. This approach makes it possible to aggregate preferences of different stakeholders and produces a range of different solutions. Furthermore, certain values of the control parameters and the distance metric generate solutions that are promising to present in a participatory situation where stakeholders have very differing preferences.
Succession of bryophyte assemblages following clear-cut logging in boreal spruce-dominated forests in south-central Sweden — Does retrogressive succession occur?
Authors: Schmalholz Martin , Hylander Kristoffer
Published: October 2009

The recovery process of boreal bryophyte communities after clear-cutting was studied in a chronosequence in south-central Sweden. We hypothesized that high initial grass cover on clearcuts, high litter cover and low light levels during canopy closure, and shortage of coarse woody substrates would constrain recovery in different ways. Instead, both epigeic and epixylic guilds (i.e., species growing on forest floor and deadwood) displayed a gradual increase in similarity over time from the clear-cut phase, perhaps because of the absence of distinct peaks in needle litter and canopy cover. Epixylic species started to recover long before the accumulation of deadwood, indicating that microclimate rather than substrate availability was the most constraining factor during the first 50 years. Since we did not find any other bottlenecks during the succession after clear-cutting, conservation measures aiming at decreasing local extinction rates during clear-cutting may also increase long-term persistence. On the other hand, as the results from the epixylic guild suggest, other factors during the forest succession, such as the development of a suitable microclimate, might be more important for some organisms, thus possibly mitigating such long-term positive effects of adjusted management during the clear-cutting operation.
Assessing the climatic potential for epizootics of the gypsy moth fungal pathogen Entomophaga maimaiga in the North Central United States
Authors: Siegert Nathan W. , McCullough Deborah G. , Venette Robert C. , Hajek Ann E. , Andresen Jeffrey A.
Published: October 2009

The fungal pathogen Entomophaga maimaiga Humber, Shimazu et Soper has become an important biocontrol for gypsy moth ( Lymantria dispar (L.)) in the northeastern United States and is commonly introduced into new areas with established gypsy moth populations. Germination of the fungus is dependent on spring temperature and moisture, but specific conditions associated with epizootics have not been determined. Whether E. maimaiga will be as effective in other regions that experience different weather conditions is not yet known. We examined similarity of weather conditions associated with 16 documented E. maimaiga epizootics with conditions at 1351 North American locations using the climate-matching software CLIMEX. Based on CLIMEX’s overall index of climatic similarity, long-term annual climatic patterns across much of the eastern United States were 60%–80% similar to the conditions associated with epizootics. Monthly weather records from 1971 to 2000 in nine North Central states were examined to compare precipitation and temperature with conditions observed during epizootics. Based on climatic averages identified with the documented epizootics, temperature and precipitation conditions in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, and Ohio were more conducive for epizootics than conditions in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, which were likely to support E. maimaiga epizootics in fewer than 6 of the 30 years considered.
MULTI-INSTANTON CORRECTIONS TO SUPERPOTENTIALS IN TYPE II COMPACTIFICATIONS
Authors: JELIŃSKI TOMASZ , PAWEŁCZYK JACEK
Published: October 2009

We consider two simple examples of multi-instanton configurations in type II four-dimensional superstring compactifications. The first one involves O(1) and U(1) D2-instantons embedded in [Formula: see text] geometry with SU(4) gauge symmetry coming from D6-branes and the second is related to the quiver gauge theory of orientifolded orbifold of conifold containing fractional D (-1)-instantons and D3-branes. The additional zero modes of instantons which appear at the intersection points are lifted through interactions stemming from dimensionally reduced F- and D-terms. It is shown that multi-instanton configurations effectively generate corrections to the usual nonperturbative superpotential for chiral matter.
RECENT PROGRESS IN LATTICE QCD
Authors: ONOGI TETSUYA
Published: October 2009

In recent years, realistic unquenched QCD simulations have been carried out with various lattice actions. In this report, I explain the progress in theory and algorithms and some of the physics results.
PROTOCOLS FOR DISTRIBUTING KEY STRINGS BASED ON PHASE AND INTENSITY FLUCTUATION
Authors: KIM AJUNG
Published: October 2009

A cryptology protocol for key distribution using phase and intensity fluctuation is proposed. It provides ways to detect the extent of eavesdropping. Detecting test factors and system design rules are suggested and the performances are analyzed for various signal keyings and cryptofunctions. It has a wide range of implementations, including the use of additive white Gaussian noise, background noise, and polarization modification in wire/wireless and optical communications.
More Religion, Less Crime? Science, Felonies, and the Three Faith Factors
Authors: DiIulio John J.
Published: October 2009

In recent decades, as politicians and journalists have paid greater attention to religion, social scientists have too. Much attention has focused on religion in relation to various indices of social and civic well-being. There are now four different schools of thought, two academic and two popular, regarding the relationship between religion and crime. While much worthwhile scientific research has been done, religion remains a neglected variable in criminology and in criminal justice studies. The popular view that “religion reduces crime” is neither without empirical foundation nor without need for far more refined and intensive testing. This article offers a simple algorithm for future social science research on crime and religion in relation to three different faith factors, three different species of religious nonprofit organizations, three different categories of crime, and three different types of empirical research.
Does the Process of Constitution-Making Matter?
Authors: Ginsburg Tom , Elkins Zachary , Blount Justin
Published: October 2009

Constitution-making is a ubiquitous but poorly understood phenomenon. There is much speculation but relatively little evidence about the impact of different design processes on constitutional outcomes. Much of the debate reduces to the question of who is involved in the process and when. We consider two central issues in this regard. The first is the problem of institutional self-dealing, or whether governmental organs that have something to gain from the constitutional outcome should be involved in the process. The second has to do with the merits of public involvement in the process. Both of these concerns have clear normative implications and both are amenable to straightforward social scientific analysis. This article surveys the relevant research on constitution-making, describes the conceptual issues involved in understanding constitution-making, reviews the various claims regarding variation in constitution-making processes, and presents a set of baseline empirical results from a new set of data on the content and process of constitution-making.
Rethinking Sovereignty in International Law
Authors: Anghie Antony
Published: October 2009

Sovereignty has always been a controversial topic in international law. The most prominent attempts to rethink sovereignty in recent times have arisen out of the policies of the Bush administration, particularly its conceptualization of self-defense and its attempts to promote democracy worldwide. This review explores the debates surrounding these initiatives and the larger theoretical issues they raise about the relationship between international law and sovereignty. International law has long struggled with the problem of how sovereign states that make international law can also be bound by it. Self-defense raises this problem in a particularly acute form because it is one of the fundamental rights of sovereignty and because it can be seen to precede the law itself. The review also explores the various ways in which the relationship between democracy and international law has been examined in the recent literature. Many of the analyses of sovereignty rely, either implicitly or explicitly, on distinctions between different types of states—democratic versus nondemocratic or, more broadly, responsible versus irresponsible states. The broad argument of this review is that the Bush administration's policies attempt to create an international legal system that resembles in many ways a return to the imperial international law of the nineteenth century.
Neurotransmission in lower esophageal sphincter ofW/Wvmutant mice
Authors: Zhang Y. , Carmichael S. A. , Wang X. Y. , Huizinga J. D. , Paterson W. G.
Published: October 2009

To address the controversy surrounding the role of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) in nitrergic neurotransmission to gastrointestinal smooth muscle, circular smooth muscle from the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) of W/Wvwild-type and mutant (ICC-deficient) mice were studied by using intracellular and tension recordings in vitro. Resting membrane potential was more negative, and the spontaneous unitary potentials diminished in mutant mice. In wild-type mice, nerve stimulation induced a biphasic inhibitory junction potential (IJP) consisting of a fast initial IJP followed by a long-lasting slow IJP (LSIJP). The IJP was markedly impaired in a significant proportion of mutant mice, whereas in others it was normal. Pharmacological studies in the mice with markedly impaired IJPs revealed that cholinergic and purinergic components of the nerve-mediated responses appeared intact. In wild-type mice, caffeine hyperpolarized smooth muscle cells, inhibited the initial fast IJP, and completely abolished the LSIJP. In mutant mice, caffeine depolarized smooth muscle cells and abolished the impaired LSIJP but did not affect the initial fast IJP. Immunohistochemical staining for c-Kit confirmed deficiency of ICC in mutant mice with a normal nitrergic IJP. Rings of LES circular smooth muscle from W/Wvmutant mice generated significantly less spontaneous tone than controls. When tone was restored with carbachol, normal nitrergic LES relaxation was recorded. These data suggest that 1) there is significant variability in the generation of nitrergic neurotransmission in the LES of W/Wvmutant mice, whereas purinergic and cholinergic neurotransmission are intact; 2) the altered nitrergic responses appear to be associated with abnormal Ca2+-dependent signaling initiated by spontaneous Ca2+release from sarcoplasmic reticulum in smooth muscle cells; and 3) c-Kit-positive ICC are not essential for nitrergic neurotransmission in mouse LES smooth muscle.
Effects of resistance exercise and fortified milk on skeletal muscle mass, muscle size, and functional performance in middle-aged and older men: an 18-mo randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kukuljan Sonja , Nowson Caryl A. , Sanders Kerrie , Daly Robin M.
Published: October 2009

Limited data have suggested that the consumption of fluid milk after resistance training (RT) may promote skeletal muscle hypertrophy. The aim of this study was to assess whether a milk-based nutritional supplement could enhance the effects of RT on muscle mass, size, strength, and function in middle-aged and older men. This was an 18-mo factorial design (randomized control trial) in which 180 healthy men aged 50–79 yr were allocated to the following groups: 1) exercise + fortified milk, 2) exercise, 3) fortified milk, or 4) control. Exercise consisted of progressive RT with weight-bearing impact exercise. Men assigned to the fortified milk consumed 400 ml/day of low-fat milk, providing an additional 836 kJ, 1000 mg calcium, 800 IU vitamin D3, and 13.2 g protein per day. Total body lean mass (LM) and fat mass (FM) (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry), midfemur muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) (quantitative computed tomography), muscle strength, and physical function were assessed. After 18 mo, there was no significant exercise by fortified milk interaction for total body LM, muscle CSA, or any functional measure. However, main effect analyses revealed that exercise significantly improved muscle strength (∼20–52%, P < 0.001), LM (0.6 kg, P < 0.05), FM (−1.1 kg, P < 0.001), muscle CSA (1.8%, P < 0.001), and gait speed (11%, P < 0.05) relative to no exercise. There were no effects of the fortified milk on muscle size, strength, or function. In conclusion, the daily consumption of low-fat fortified milk does not enhance the effects of RT on skeletal muscle size, strength, or function in healthy middle-aged and older men with adequate energy and nutrient intakes.
Influence of cardiac shape on left ventricular twist
Authors: van Dalen Bas M. , Kauer Floris , Vletter Wim B. , Soliman Osama I. I. , van der Zwaan Heleen B. , ten Cate Folkert J. , Geleijnse Marcel L.
Published: October 2009

The dynamic interaction between subendocardial and subepicardial fibre helices in the left ventricle (LV) leads to a twisting deformation, which has an important role in LV function. This study sought to assess the influence of cardiac shape on LV twist in the normal and dilated human heart. The study comprised 45 dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients and 60 for age- and gender-matched healthy volunteers. Speckle tracking echocardiography was used to determine basal and apical LV peak systolic rotation (Rotmax) and instantaneous LV peak systolic twist (Twistmax). LV sphericity index was calculated by dividing the LV maximal long-axis internal dimension by the maximal short-axis internal dimension at end-diastole. A parabolic relation between the sphericity index and apical Rotmaxor Twistmaxwas identified in the total study population ( R2= 0.56 and R2= 0.54, respectively; both P < 0.001) and healthy volunteers ( R2= 0.39 and R2= 0.25, respectively; both P < 0.001), whereas these relations were linear in DCM patients ( R2= 0.40 and R2= 0.43, respectively; both P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis, LV sphericity index was the strongest independent predictor of apical Rotmaxand Twistmax. In conclusion, LV apical rotation and twist are significantly influenced by LV configuration. Taking the important function of LV twist into account, this finding highlights the vital influence of cardiac shape on LV systolic function.
Time course expression of Foxo transcription factors in skeletal muscle following corticosteroid administration
Authors: Cho John E. , Fournier Mario , Da Xiaoyu , Lewis Michael I.
Published: October 2009

Increased expression of forkhead box O (Foxo) transcription factors were reported in cultured myotubes and mouse limb muscle with corticosteroid (CS) treatment. We previously reported that administration of CS to rats resulted in muscle fiber atrophy only by day 7. The aim of this study, therefore, was to evaluate the time-course changes in the expression of Foxo transcription factors and muscle-specific ubiquitin E3 ligases in rat limb muscle following CS administration. Triamcinolone (TRI; 1 mg · kg−1 · day−1 im) was administered for 1, 3, or 7 days. Control (CTL) rats were given saline. Muscle mRNA was analyzed by real-time RT-PCR. Compared with CTL, body weights of TRI-treated animals decreased by 3, 12, and 21% at days 1, 3, and 7, respectively. Muscle IGF-1 mRNA levels decreased by 33, 65, and 58% at days 1, 3, and 7 in TRI-treated rats compared with CTL. Levels of phosphorylated Akt were 28, 50, and 36% lower in TRI animals at these time points. Foxo1 mRNA increased progressively by 1.2-, 1.4-, and 2.5-fold at days 1, 3, and 7 in TRI animals. Similar changes were noted in the expression of Foxo3a mRNA (1.3-, 1.4-, and 2.6-fold increments). By contrast, Foxo4 mRNA was not significantly changed in TRI animals. With TRI, muscle atrophy F box/Atrogin-1 increased by 1.8-, 4.1-, and 7.5-fold at days 1, 3, and 7 compared with CTL rats. By contrast, muscle RING finger 1 increased only from day 7 (2.7-fold). Gradual reduction in IGF-I expression with TRI over the time series paralleled that of Akt. These findings are consistent with a progressive stimulus to muscle protein degradation and the need to process/remove disassembled muscle proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Elucidating the dynamic catabolic responses to CS challenge is important in understanding the mechanisms underlying muscle atrophy and therapeutic measures to offset this.
Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia due to 11-Hydroxylase Deficiency – Insights from Two Novel CYP11B1 Mutations (p.M92X, p.R453Q)
Authors: Krone Nils , Grötzinger Joachim , Holterhus Paul-Martin , Sippell Wolfgang G. , Schwarz Hans-Peter , Riepe Felix G.
Published: October 2009

Background: Steroid 11-hydroxylase (CYP11B1) deficiency (11OHD) is the second most common form of congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Herein, we describe two novel CYP11B1 mutations (g659_660dupTG, p.M92X; g.4817G>A, p.R453Q) found in a patient diagnosed with classic 11OHD, after presenting with borderline elevated 17-hydroxyprogesterone concentrations in CAH newborn screening. Methods: A novel CYP11B1 variant (p.R453Q) identified in a patient with classic 11OHD was characterized employing a COS7 cell assay and a computational three-dimensional CYP11B1 model. Results: The in vitro expression analysis revealed an almost complete loss of function of p.R453Q. This finding was consistent with the clinical presentation of classic 11OHD as the patient was compound heterozygous for p.R453Q and a nonsense mutation (p.M92X) on the other allele. Inserting the p.R453Q mutation into our CYP11B1 model provided two potential explanations for the almost complete loss of enzyme activity. Firstly, the heme coordination is most likely disturbed. A second possibility could be an altered interaction with the redox partner adrenodoxin. Conclusion: Results indicate that both novel mutations are disease-causing mutations. Proving the pathogenic effect of a missense sequence variation is of particular importance for clinical genetic counseling as this provides essential information on the prediction of recurrence risk and disease severity.
Nutritional Status of Vietnamese Female Marriage Immigrants to Korea in Relation to Length of Residence in Korea
Authors: Lyu Ji Eun , Yang Yoon Jung , Lee Sang Eun , Chung Hye Won , Kim Mi Kyung , Kim Wha Young
Published: October 2009

Aims: It was the aim of this study to assess the nutritional status of Vietnamese immigrants to Korea through marriage and to examine the association between their nutritional status and their length of residence in Korea. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis of a prospective cohort study was performed with Vietnamese immigrant wives to Korea (n = 890). Results: The mean age and length of residence in Korea were 23.5 and 2.0 years, respectively. The mean body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) were 20.9 and 0.82, respectively. Prevalence of underweight (BMI <18.5), overweight (BMI ≥25) and central obesity (WHR >0.85) were 18.3, 7.5 and 26.2%, respectively. As the length of residence in Korea increased, the prevalence of obesity and central obesity increased and the prevalence of underweight decreased. The prevalence of dyslipidemia was <10%. Daily food and daily nutrient intake, which was estimated by 1-day 24-hour recall, did not differ according to the length of residence in Korea. Conclusions: BMI, WHR and blood profiles of most subjects were in the normal ranges. As the length of residence in Korea increased, the prevalence of obesity increased. The usual intake of the subjects needs to be estimated by other dietary assessment methods.
Atypical Neutrophilic Dermatosis on the Upper Extremity Affected by Postmastectomy Lymphedema: Report of 2 Cases
Authors: Demitsu T. , Tadaki T.
Published: October 2009

We describe 2 female patients, both with a history of radical mastectomy for breast cancer, in whom several indurated erythematous plaques developed on the upper extremity affected by postmastectomy lymphedema. There were no general symptoms or leukocytosis. Histopathological examination showed a dense neutrophilic infiltrate without a feature of vasculitis in the dermis and subcutis. Dramatic therapeutic response was observed to treatment with potassium iodide. These findings resemble Sweet’s syndrome, but such cases have not been previously reported. Possible pathogenic mechanisms for these unique cutaneous eruptions are discussed.
Factors Affecting Plasma Levels of Ketoconazole during Long-Term Treatment
Authors: Meyer J.C. , Burri C. , Ruf P. , Schnyder U.W.
Published: October 2009

In the present study we intended to obtain information on the evolution of near-peak blood levels during long-term treatment. 56 patients with an indication for systemic treatment of nail or skin mycoses obtained a daily dose of 200 mg ketoconazole. They were periodically checked for blood level of ketoconazole, clinical and mycological status and enzyme values. The average blood level was 2.8 ± 1.3 μg/ml plasma. The blood level was not influenced by the length of the treatment. A correlation between blood level and weight or sex was not observed, whereas a significant negative correlation occurred between blood level and age (age group 15–30 years: 3.9 ± 1.3 μg/ml; 46–60 years: 2.4 ± 0.9 μg/ml).
Lack of Effect of Acitretin on the Hypothrombinemic Action of Phenprocoumon in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Hartmann D. , Mosberg H. , Weber W.
Published: October 2009

A possible influence of the aromatic retinoid acitretin on the hypothrombinemic action of phenprocoumon was investigated in 10 healthy male volunteers, 22–33 years of age. In a run-in period of 17 days the prothrombin complex activity (Quick) of the subjects was adjusted by individual doses of phenprocoumon (range 1.5–3 mg/day) to a therapeutic level of around 20% (INR = 3.6). Afterwards the dosage regimens were kept unchanged until day 40 when 60 mg oral vitamin K1 were administered. From day 18 to day 28 once daily doses of 50 mg acitretin were applied concurrently with phenprocoumon.The mean (± SD) prothrombin complex activity increased slightly and steadily from 19 ± 1% on day 10 over 22 ± 1% on day 18 to 24 ± 4% on day 28 and reached 27 ± 4% on day 38 (the corresponding INRs were 3.30, 2.91, 2.71 and 2.46 respectively).There were, however, no relevant changes of the Quick values in any subject which could be attributed to acitretin. It can be concluded that, under the present experimental conditions, acitretin did not affect significantly the anticoagulant action of phenprocoumon.
Vitamin D3 in Dermatology: A Critical Appraisal
Authors: Czarnetzki Beate M.
Published: October 2009

Vitamin D3 and its active metabolites can be generated within the skin. Their physiological activities encompass the regulation of calcium homeostasis, protooncogene expression and the production of a number of intracellular and secretory molecules from cells in various organs, including keratinocytes, fibroblasts and leukocytes. The major outcome of these activities is a decreased cellular proliferation and the modulation of inflammation and immunity, suggesting that these agents might be effective in the treatment of psoriasis, ichthyosis and allergic dermatitis. Several open and double-blind studies have indeed demonstrated some efficacy in psoriasis, but healing is slow and often incomplete. Higher doses are more effective but increase the potential of calcium deposition in the vascular tree and particularly the kidneys. Clinical results in ichthyosis and allergic dermatitis are disappointing. For the future, therapeutically more effective analogues of vitamin D3 with no calcium liability need to be developed.
Metformin, Estrogen Replacement Therapy and Gonadotropin Inhibition Fail to Improve Insulin Sensitivity in a Girl with Aromatase Deficiency
Authors: Guercio Gabriela , Di Palma Maria Isabel , Pepe Carolina , Saraco Nora I. , Prieto Mariana , Saure Carola , Mazza Carmen , Rivarola Marco A. , Belgorosky Alicia
Published: October 2009

Background: Insulin resistance (IR), abnormal lipid profile, and other features of the metabolic syndrome have been described in CYP19 gene knockout mice and in aromatase-deficient adult men but not in prepubertal affected girls. Aims: To study insulin sensitivity, as well as the effects of estrogen, metformin and GnRHa treatment on glucose homeostasis, in an aromatase-deficient girl. Methods: Clinical, metabolic and hormonal follow-up data, from 8 to 12 years of age, is presented. Results: At 9 years of age, IR (HOMA 5.6) and glucose intolerance was detected, along with high serum testosterone (2.28 nmol/l), androstenedione (4.92 nmol/l) and FSH (13.4 mIU/ml) levels. Estrogen replacement was ineffective to suppress gonadotropin and androgen levels, as well as IR. Under metformin therapy, she developed type 2 diabetes and acanthosis nigricans. GnRHa administration for 1 year resulted in marked decreases in gonadotropin and serum androgens, but severe IR persisted. Conclusion: Postnatal estrogen replacement and a marked decrease of endogenous androgens failed to improve IR and glucose tolerance. We propose that, in females, the increment of androgens and/or lack of estrogens during fetal life might alter the mechanism of fetal programming of insulin sensitivity.
Skin Tags: Localization and Frequencies According to Sex and Age
Authors: Banik R. , Lubach D.
Published: October 2009

The relevant literature does not contain detailed numerical data about skin tags. We found 46% skin tag carriers in 750 unselected persons (25% males and 21% females). The risk of getting skin tags increases with age. The age of 50, however, seems to be a turning point, at which a stagnation of the increase is observed. The majority of the carriers had no more than 3 tags per localization; the most frequent localization was the axilla, followed by the neck. This study supplies objective data for the evaluation of skin tags as markers for colonic polyps and may provide standard values for future studies.
Alcohol Consumption and Psoriasis
Authors: Monk B.E. , Neill S.M.
Published: October 2009

A study has been undertaken of the relationship between the severity of psoriasis and alcohol consumption in 100 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. In male patients, heavy drinking, at a level liable to be detrimental to health, was found significantly more commonly in those with severe psoriasis, and alcohol-related medical or social problems were frequent. By contrast alcohol excess and alcohol-related problems were significantly less common in women irrespective of the severity of their psoriasis.
Kasabach-Merritt Syndrome with Disseminated Intravascular Coagulopathy Treated by Exchange Transfusion and Surgical Excision
Authors: Tanaka K. , Shimao S. , Okada T. , Tanaka A.
Published: October 2009

Kasabach-Merritt syndrome with consumption coagulopathy occurred in a 5-week-old female infant with a hemangioma on her back. Disseminated intravascular coagulopathy was improved by an exchange transfusion. Administration of steroid and radiation therapy was attempted as a treatment for the hemangioma and thrombocytopenia; however, it was unsuccessful. Complete recovery was obtained by surgical excision. Enhanced computerized tomography was advantageous to determine the size of the hemangioma prior to operation.
Urticarial Vasculitis and Recurrent Pleural Effusion: A Systemic Manifestation of Urticarial Vasculitis
Authors: Knobler H. , Admon D. , Leibovici V. , Okon E.
Published: October 2009

A 62-year-old woman with an 8-year history of urticaria, arthralgia and arthritis developed recurrent pleural effusion. A thorough laboratory workup during repeated attacks of concomitant urticaria and pleural effusion disclosed only hypocomplementemia and the histopathological finding of the skin biopsy revealed leukoclastic vasculitis. These findings are compatible with the entity of urticarial vasculitis. It is thus suggested that pleural effusion can form part of the systemic manifestations of urticarial vasculitis.
Mononuclear Cell Phenotypes in Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Chen Zeyi , Foca Alfredo , Norton-Koger Barbara , Dobson Richard L. , Rust Philip , La Via Mariano F.
Published: October 2009

Mononuclear blood cells from 19 patients with psoriasis were stained with a panel of monoclonal antibodies which detect total T lymphocytes, their helper/inducer and suppressor/cytotoxic subsets and Ia-positive lymphocytes and monocytes. Fluorescence-positive cells were enumerated by cell flow cytometry. In these patients, percentages of all mononuclear cell studies were within reference range with few, sporadic exceptions. Statistical analysis of data showed no significant differences between patient values and reference values from a panel of 100 normal subjects.
Behaviour of Sarcoptes scabiei in its Burrow in Hyperkeratotic Scabies
Authors: Van Neste D.
Published: October 2009

The behaviour of Sarcoptes scabiei var. hominis has been studied in the skin of 2 patients with hyperkeratotic scabies. After examination under the scanning electron microscope, the skin specimens can be reprocessed for light microscopic examination. Original aspects and the dynamics of the burrowing parasite are presented, namely its penetration into the epidermis, the elimination of digestive residues and the maturation of the parasite’s eggs.
Léiomyomes multiples traités par nifédipine
Authors: Laporte M. , Achten G. , Gheeraert P. , Lowy M. , Vokaer A.
Published: October 2009

The authors describe a new case of multiple cutaneous leiomyomata: a female patient aged 33 presents lesions in hundreds causing severe pain. The subjective symptoms are highly improved by the calcium antagonist nifedipine.
Blood Lymphocyte Subpopulations Studied with Monoclonal Antibodies in Aleukaemic Stages of Mycosis fungoides
Authors: Economidou J. , Choremi H. , Kofina A. , Tosca A. , Kotsakis P. , Vareldzidis A. , Stratigos J.
Published: October 2009

Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 21 patients with aleukaemic stages of mycosis fungoides were studied with monoclonal T cell antibodies. Patients with erythematous eruptions or infiltrated plaques (group I) had a higher percentage of OKT4+ cells than patients with a tumorous stage (group II) or normal subjects (p = 0.05). OKT8+ cells were decreased in group I patients whereas in group II they were usually normal or increased (p < 0.02). These data indicate that with advancing stage of the disease a different pattern of imbalance of T-cell subsets is being established.
Specific Cell-Mediated Immunity in Patients with Epidermodysplasia verruciformis and Plane Warts
Authors: Haftek Marek , Jabłońska Stefania , Orth Gerard
Published: October 2009

The characterization of different types of human papilloma viruses made it possible to study the specific immune responses to purified viral antigens in patients with warts. The specific cell-mediated immunity was investigated by means of a leukocyte migration inhibition factor test in 9 patients with epidermodysplasia verruciformis and 4 patients with regressing plane warts. The results show a significant increase in specific cell-mediated reactivity concomitant with the regression of the warts.
Détermination des sous-populations de lymphocytes circulants dans la dermatite atopique à l’aide d’anticorps monoclonaux
Authors: De Maubeuge J. , Delespesse G. , Achten G. , Servais G. , De Vetter L. , Gaillaert N.
Published: October 2009

Monoclonal antibodies were used to determine the level of circulating helper and suppressor T cells in 34 infants and adults with severe atopic dermatitis and in normal controls. The percentage of OKT3 (total T lymphocytes) was reduced significantly in all the atopic infants. The percentage of OKT8 (supressor-cytotoxic T lymphocytes) was reduced significantly in all patients with active lesions. The percentage of Tγ lymphocytes was reduced in all the atopic patients with or without active lesions.
Mycosis fungoides
Authors: Valsecchi R. , Reseghetti A. , Bontempelli M. , Frigeni A. , Cainelli T.
Published: October 2009

Peripheral blood lymphocytes from 16 mycosis fungoides (MF) patients were studied using OKT series monoclonal antihuman T cell antibodies. The percentage of OKT3+ cells was in normal range for all MF patients compared with controls; the percentage of OKT4+ cells was significantly increased (p < 0.002) in MF patients versus controls; the percentage of OKT8+ and OKT11+ cells in the MF group did not differ from controls. The OKT4+ cell expansion was apparently not dependent from the clinical stage of disease. These findings suggest that in MF patients there is a circulating OKT4+ cell expansion and, indirectly, that MF could be regarded as a helper T cell neoplasm.
Dermatosis of Hairless Rats Fed a Hypomagnesic Diet – Pathology and Immunology
Authors: Chavaz P. , Faucher F. , Saurat J.H.
Published: October 2009

The histopathology of hypomagnesic dermatosis in the hairless rat was studied on semithin sections, by electron microscopy, direct immunofluorescence and monoclonal antibodies to T cell subsets. We found primarily an edema of the epidermis and of the superficial dermis with a moderate mononuclear infiltrate and sometimes intraepidermal splits. The immunofluorescent study did not reveal any significant immune reactant within the skin. The comparison of our findings with the histopathology of the atopic dermatitis did not allow us to propose the hypomagnesic dermatosis as an animal model for human atopic dermatitis. We discuss some aspects of the pathogenesis of this chronic inflammatory dermatosis.
Failure of Mexiletine to Relieve Severe Pruritus
Authors: Hägermark Ö. , Anderson P. , Nordlind K.
Published: October 2009

Mexiletine, an antiarrhythmic drug with pharmacological properties similar to lidocaine, was tested for antipruritic effect in 4 patients with severe pruritus. Although the plasma levels were within the therapeutic range for antiarrhythmic effects, a consistent relief of pruritus could not be found.