bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Epidemic of Extended-Spectrum-β-Lactamase-Producing Escherichia coli ST131 Is Driven by a Single Highly Pathogenic Subclone,
H
30-Rx
Authors: Price Lance B. , Johnson James R. , Aziz Maliha , Clabots Connie , Johnston Brian , Tchesnokova Veronika , Nordstrom Lora , Billig Maria , Chattopadhyay Sujay , Stegger Marc , Andersen Paal S. , Pearson Talima , Riddell Kim , Rogers Peggy , Scholes Delia , Kahl Barbara , Keim Paul , Sokurenko Evgeni V.
Published: December 2013

The
Escherichia coli
sequence type 131 (ST131) clone is notorious for extraintestinal infections, fluoroquinolone resistance, and extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production, attributable to a CTX-M-15-encoding mobile element. Here, we applied pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and whole-genome sequencing to reconstruct the evolutionary history of the ST131 clone. PFGE-based cluster analyses suggested that both fluoroquinolone resistance and ESBL production had been acquired by multiple ST131 sublineages through independent genetic events. In contrast, the more robust whole-genome-sequence-based phylogenomic analysis revealed that fluoroquinolone resistance was confined almost entirely to a single, rapidly expanding ST131 subclone, designated
H
30-R. Strikingly, 91% of the CTX-M-15-producing isolates also belonged to a single, well-defined clade nested within
H
30-R, which was named
H
30-Rx due to its more extensive resistance. Despite its tight clonal relationship with
H
30Rx, the CTX-M-15 mobile element was inserted variably in plasmid and chromosomal locations within the
H
30-Rx genome. Screening of a large collection of recent clinical
E. coli
isolates both confirmed the global clonal expansion of
H
30-Rx and revealed its disproportionate association with sepsis (relative risk, 7.5;
P
< 0.001). Together, these results suggest that the high prevalence of CTX-M-15 production among ST131 isolates is due primarily to the expansion of a single, highly virulent subclone,
H
30-Rx.

IMPORTANCE
We applied an advanced genomic approach to study the recent evolutionary history of one of the most important
Escherichia coli
strains in circulation today. This strain, called sequence type 131 (ST131), causes multidrug-resistant bladder, kidney, and bloodstream infections around the world. The rising prevalence of antibiotic resistance in
E. coli
is making these infections more difficult to treat and is leading to increased mortality. Past studies suggested that many different ST131 strains gained resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins independently. In contrast, our research indicates that most extended-spectrum-cephalosporin-resistant ST131 strains belong to a single highly pathogenic subclone, called
H
30-Rx. The clonal nature of
H
30-Rx may provide opportunities for vaccine or transmission prevention-based control strategies, which could gain importance as
H
30-Rx and other extraintestinal pathogenic
E. coli
subclones become resistant to our best antibiotics.
Emergence of the Epidemic Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strain USA300 Coincides with Horizontal Transfer of the Arginine Catabolic Mobile Element and
speG
-mediated Adaptations for Survival on Skin
Authors: Planet Paul J. , LaRussa Samuel J. , Dana Ali , Smith Hannah , Xu Amy , Ryan Chanelle , Uhlemann Anne-Catrin , Boundy Sam , Goldberg Julia , Narechania Apurva , Kulkarni Ritwij , Ratner Adam J. , Geoghegan Joan A. , Kolokotronis Sergios-Orestis , Prince Alice
Published: December 2013

The arginine catabolic mobile element (ACME) is the largest genomic region distinguishing epidemic USA300 strains of methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) from other
S. aureus
strains. However, the functional relevance of ACME to infection and disease has remained unclear. Using phylogenetic analysis, we have shown that the modular segments of ACME were assembled into a single genetic locus in
Staphylococcus epidermidis
and then horizontally transferred to the common ancestor of USA300 strains in an extremely recent event. Acquisition of one ACME gene,
speG
, allowed USA300 strains to withstand levels of polyamines (e.g., spermidine) produced in skin that are toxic to other closely related
S. aureus
strains.
speG
-mediated polyamine tolerance also enhanced biofilm formation, adherence to fibrinogen/fibronectin, and resistance to antibiotic and keratinocyte-mediated killing. We suggest that these properties gave USA300 a major selective advantage during skin infection and colonization, contributing to the extraordinary evolutionary success of this clone.

IMPORTANCE
Over the past 15 years, methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA) has become a major public health problem. It is likely that adaptations in specific MRSA lineages (e.g., USA300) drove the spread of MRSA across the United States and allowed it to replace other, less-virulent
S. aureus
strains. We suggest that one major factor in the evolutionary success of MRSA may have been the acquisition of a gene (
speG
) that allows
S. aureus
to evade the toxicity of polyamines (e.g., spermidine and spermine) that are produced in human skin. Polyamine tolerance likely gave MRSA multiple fitness advantages, including the formation of more-robust biofilms, increased adherence to host tissues, and resistance to antibiotics and killing by human skin cells.
Anisometropic amblyopia in a case of type 2 Waardenburg syndrome
Authors: Akal Ali , Göncü Tugba , Boyaci Nurefsan , Yılmaz Ömer Faruk
Published: December 2013

This study presents a case of an 8-year-old boy with iris heterochromia and anisometropic amblyopia who was diagnosed with Waardenburg syndrome (WS) type 2. An ophthalmic examination revealed iris heterochromia and anisometropic amblyopia in our patient. In the systemic examination, a white forelock and vitiligo on the arms and body were observed and neurosensory hearing loss was revealed, for which the patient used hearing aids. Identification and typing of patients with WS is crucial to address neurosensory hearing loss, glaucoma and fundus changes. While it might be challenging to communicate with a patient with speech and hearing problems, visual acuity should be examined carefully and probable amblyopia should be identified. Anterior segment changes and signs of glaucoma should also be evaluated in detail.
Oral antibiotics at discharge for children with acute osteomyelitis: a rapid cycle improvement project
Authors: Brady Patrick W , Brinkman William B , Simmons Jeffrey M , Yau Connie , White Christine M , Kirkendall Eric S , Schaffzin Joshua K , Conway Patrick H , Vossmeyer Michael T
Published: December 2013

Background

Substantial evidence demonstrates comparable cure rates for oral versus intravenous therapy for routine osteomyelitis. Evidence adoption is often slow and in our centre virtually all patients with osteomyelitis were discharged on intravenous therapy.

Objective

For patients with acute osteomyelitis admitted to the hospital medicine service, we aimed to increase the proportion of cases discharged on oral antibiotics to at least 70%.

Methods

The setting for our observational time series study was a large academic children's hospital. The model for improvement and plan-do-study-act cycles were used to test, refine and implement interventions identified through our key driver diagram. Our multifaceted intervention included a shared decision-making tool, an order set in our electronic health record, and education to faculty and trainees. We also included an identify and mitigate intervention to target providers caring for children with osteomyelitis in near-real time and reinforce the evidence-based recommendations. Data were analysed on an annotated g-chart of osteomyelitis cases between patients discharged on intravenous antibiotics. Structured chart review was used to identify treatment failures as well as length of stay and hospital charges in preintervention and postintervention groups.

Results

The osteomyelitis cases between patients discharged on intravenous antibiotics increased from a median of 0 preintervention to a maximum of 9 cases following our identify and mitigate intervention. The direction and magnitude of successive improvements observed satisfied criteria for special cause variation. Improvement has been sustained for 1 year. Treatment failure and complications were uncommon in preintervention and postintervention phases. No significant differences in length of stay or charges were detected.

Conclusions

Even for uncommon conditions, rapid and sustained evidence adoption is possible using quality improvement methods.
Commercial thinning stimulates natural regeneration in spruce–fir stands
Authors: Olson Matthew G. , Meyer Spencer R. , Wagner Robert G. , Seymour Robert S.
Published: December 2013

Understanding the response of tree regeneration following commercial thinning treatments can improve planning in managed forests dependent on natural regeneration. We used long-term commercial thinning experiments in eastern spruce–fir stands of Maine, USA, to test two hypotheses: (1) commercial thinning increases the density of tree regeneration and (2) tree regeneration density increases with increasing thinning intensity. A decade after thinning, densities of softwood and hardwood regeneration were 10 times greater in thinned stands than unthinned stands. The abundance of small softwood (0.11–0.60 m tall) was highest in lower intensity thinning treatments, whereas medium (0.61–1.40 m tall) and large (≥1.41 m tall to 8.90 cm diameter at breast height) softwoods increased proportionally with thinning intensity, a pattern related to a higher rate of recruitment in more open stands created by heavier thinning. Hardwood density generally increased with thinning intensity and developed into a significant component of the large size class. Softwood regeneration density was higher in older spruce stands than younger fir stands, which may be due to greater abundance of advance regeneration, higher residual stand mortality, and greater harvest disturbance in older spruce stands. However, acceptable softwood stocking was achieved in all replicates of thinning treatments. Therefore, in addition to providing higher individual-tree growth and merchantable yield, commercial thinning in eastern spruce–fir stands also increases regeneration density. The rate of recruitment also increased as thinning intensity increased, thus stimulating understory regeneration similar to that of a shelterwood establishment cut.
Doxazosin selectively potentiates contraction to serotonin via 5-HT2A receptors in longitudinal muscle strips of the rabbit gastric body
Authors: Zhao Yan , Cao Xue-Bin , Ren Lei-Ming
Published: December 2013

The aims of this study were to examine the effects of doxazosin on contractile responses to 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), carbachol, and histamine, and to compare them with those of prazosin, alfuzosin, and terazosin, and then characterize a pharmacological profile of the 5-HT-induced contractile response using preparations of isolated longitudinal muscle strips from the rabbit gastric body. The results from these preparations showed that the contraction response to 5-HT, but not to carbachol or histamine, was found to be dose-dependently potentiated by doxazosin and its enantiomers. The specific potentiation effect on 5-HT was not observed in the preparations that were treated with prazosin, terazosin, or alfuzosin. The contractile response to 5-HT and its potentiation by doxazosin were not affected by treatment with phenoxybenzamine. However, 5-HT-induced contraction was competitively antagonized by nefazodone (with pA2 value of 8.64 ± 0.17), and was almost completely inhibited by treatment with indomethacin. In conclusion, doxazosin, but not prazosin, alfuzosin, or terazosin, selectively potentiates 5-HT-induced contraction in the rabbit gastric body strips via an α1-adrenoceptor-independent mechanism, without chiral recognition of its enantiomers. Additionally, the contraction to 5-HT was found to be mediated via 5-HT2A receptors, and was similar to PGs synthesis in the preparations.
ON THE UNIQUENESS OF HIGHER-SPIN SYMMETRIES IN ADS AND CFT
Authors: BOULANGER N. , PONOMAREV D. , SKVORTSOV E. , TARONNA M.
Published: December 2013

We study the uniqueness of higher-spin algebras which are at the core of higher-spin theories in AdS and of CFTs with exact higher-spin symmetry, i.e. conserved tensors of rank greater than two. The Jacobi identity for the gauge algebra is the simplest consistency test that appears at the quartic order for a gauge theory. Similarly, the algebra of charges in a CFT must also obey the Jacobi identity. These algebras are essentially the same. Solving the Jacobi identity under some simplifying assumptions listed out, we obtain that the Eastwood–Vasiliev algebra is the unique solution for d = 4 and d≥7. In 5d, there is a one-parameter family of algebras that was known before. In particular, we show that the introduction of a single higher-spin gauge field/current automatically requires the infinite tower of higher-spin gauge fields/currents. The result implies that from all the admissible non-Abelian cubic vertices in AdSd, that have been recently classified for totally symmetric higher-spin gauge fields, only one vertex can pass the Jacobi consistency test. This cubic vertex is associated with a gauge deformation that is the germ of the Eastwood–Vasiliev's higher-spin algebra.
Ordovician to Silurian magmatism on the Utsira High, North Sea: implications for correlations between the onshore and offshore Caledonides
Authors: Lundmark A. M. , Sæther T. , Sørlie R.
Published: December 2013

The age and tectonic significance of two basement granitoids cored on the Utsira High, Viking Graben, North Sea, are constrained by zircon LA-ICPMS data. Syenite in well 25/10-2R is dated to 482±2 Ma, with εHf
(482)
values from −4.4 to −5.8, and granite in well 16/1-12 yields an age of 436±3 Ma with εHf
(436)
values from +3.7 to −0.5. The evolved Hf-signature of the syenite demonstrates 482 Ma reworking of Palaeoproterozoic–Archaean crust, interpreted to reflect Taconian–Grampian orogenesis. New and recently published data from the offshore Caledonides allow a first-order correlation of the Utsira High basement with the surrounding on- and offshore Caledonides. The Utsira High occupies a similar position with respect to Dalradian rocks as the Scottish Midland Valley terrane. Geophysical data indicate a volcanic arc beneath the East Shetland Basin, forming a northwards continuation of the Utsira High basement. We propose that the offshore volcanic arc segments represent the northeastern continuation of the Scottish Grampian orogen across the Mesozoic North Sea rift. A north-striking terrane boundary fault is proposed to separate the volcanic arc from the East Shetland Platform and merge northwards with the offshore extension of the Great Glen Fault–Møre Trøndelag Fault Complex.

Supplementary material:

U–Pb and Lu–Hf isotopic data are available at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18705
.
II.
On the Rhizopoda, and their Importance in various Geological Forms
Authors: Campbell Henry J.
Published: December 2013

In the first place he referred to their place in the scale of creation, then mentioned their characteristic features both in a zoological and geological point of view.

If, while sauntering along the sea-beach, you lift a handful of drift sand, and examine it carefully with a magnifying glass, you will discover a number of minute beautifully formed shells; these are the skeletons of the Polythalamia, or Foraminiferæ, which belong to the Rhizopoda.

For a considerable time after their discovery, they were ranked by naturalists in the class Cephalopoda of the Mollusca, and it was not until the researches of Dujardin, in 1833, proved beyond doubt that the creatures to which these minute, variously formed shells owed their existence were intimately related to the Amœba. The Foraminiferæ are procured in the sand from the Adriatic, Red, and Mediterranean Seas, also along nearly all the coasts in the world.

Dallas remarks ‶that the Foraminiferæ occur in such great numbers, that the fine calcareous sand which constitutes the sea-shore in many places consists
almost entirely
of their microscopic coats. At former periods of the earth’s history they existed in even greater profusion than at present; and their fragile shells form the principal constitutents of several very important geological forms.″

The stone which is universally employed in Paris for building is almost entirely composed of the fossil shells of an animal belonging to this order, the Miliola. It is also probable that the animals, whose fossil shells termed Nummulites, which are found in great quantities in the chalk and lower tertiary strata, are also to be regarded as members of this class. Whole mountains in the neighbourhood of the Mediterranean consist almost entirely of their shells; and the Pyramids of Egypt, which have been reckoned amongst the wonders of the world, are chiefly built with a limestone which is composed for the most part of nummulites.

In conclusion, attention was directed to the various works of Hogg, Lyell, Dukes, &c., on the Foraminiferæ.
Address on ‶Field work, its charms and instructions″
Authors: Page David
Published: December 2013

In retiring from this chair, I have no difficulty in finding a subject whereon to offer a few parting words to the Fellows of the Edinburgh Geological Society. During the last seven years the Society has made great and gratifying progress. From less than fifty members it has now risen to more than two hundred. But though strong in numbers, I fear it is still somewhat weak in workers. It is true we have established a Museum, inaugurated a Library, and commenced to publish Transactions. But though thus assuming all the functions of a well-appointed society, these functions have as yet been very slenderly performed. These appointments, however valuable as adjuncts to a working society, will at most be little better than dross and rubbish if we seek not to exhibit the real metal which comes alone from an active and earnest working in the field of observation. We may add member to member, and these we value as showing an interest in our especial study, or as showing their willingness to aid us with their contributions; but though we were to add double their number, it would be no security for the permanence of our Society and its progress, unless a large number betake themselves to the practice of the science, and become field-observers. There is none of us but has now and again his day of leisure, his excursion to the country, or his few weeks of summer holiday; and unless this time be spent so far in the delightful exercise of observation, and in bringing this observation before his fellow-members, he neglects his opportunities as regards the science, and fails to fulfil his obligations to the Society. No one will ever arrive at true conceptions of world-history unless through the immediate study of the leaves on which that history is recorded. Travel and observation are the prime essentials of the science, and he who foregoes these—to the extent of his opportunity—omits the main chance of understanding aright its numerous and complicated problems. ‶To the field on every fitting occasion″ should be the guiding maxim of the young geologist; and though new discoveries may not always reward his toil, though he should even fail to obtain what others have obtained before him, he is at least in the way of doing both; and in the excellent practice of training his powers of observation. And when his day’s work is done, however little it may have added to his scientific stores, he has secured one luxury, at least, by his twenty miles’ ramble in the pure country air—a blessing which comes to the poor unasked, and which the rich but too seldom enjoy—the luxury of feeling tired.
A comparative study of the ecology and palaeoecology of Lingula
Authors: Craig Gordon Y.
Published: December 2013

The ecology of living lingulids is reviewed. Occurrences are noted of fossil shells of
Lingula
lying vertically, with their anterior ends uppermost, to the bedding-planes of various sediments. These shells are considered to be in the burrowing position adopted by the animals during life. In the Top Hosie Shale, Kilsyth, there is a palaeoecological association of burrowing animals, vertical shells of
Lingula squamiformis
being associated with shells of the burrowing lamellibranchs,
Nuculopsis gibbosa
and
Sanguinolites costellatus.
Two shells of
L. squamiformis
from this horizon show what is probably the pyritized infilling of the pedicle tube. The mode of life of fossil
Lingulae
is considered to have been substantially the same as that of living lingulids.
Palynology and coal stratigraphy
Authors: Knox Elizabeth M.
Published: December 2013

This paper outlines the history and development of palynology in Great Britain. It gives a brief account of the types of spores and their distribution in coals of Carboniferous age in Scotland and draws attention to the value of microspores as an aid in the correlation of coal seams.
The age of gneisses and migmatites in the ‶north-west block″ of southern Norway
Authors: Kolderup Neils-Henr
Published: December 2013

The north-western area of Southern Norway, the north-western ‶Pre-Cambrian Block″, is, in the writer’s view, built up of four elements:

Cambro-Silurian schists.

Probably Eo-Cambrian pelitic rocks.

Eclogites, peridotites, anorthosites, and gabbros.

Acid migmatites, granites and gneisses.

The writer records some recent observations from the south-western parts of this region, which to his mind favour the conclusion that the eclogites and gabbros, and the rocks of division 4, are of Caledonian age. The gabbros, now generally represented by amphibolites, are most likely to be younger than the Cambro-Silurian schists, while the granitic rocks seem to have originated from the granitisation of the gabbros or amphibolites. As to the anorthosites, there is no new evidence, but some of them are allochthonous, like those in the main Caledonian geosyncline.
The tectonics of the Beinn Dronaig area, Attadale
Authors: McIntyre Donald B.
Published: December 2013

On Beinn Dronaig are combined not only three stratigraphic zones of the Moine and several ‶inliers″ of ‶Lewisian″, but, apparently, two systems of folding at right angles to one another. Comparison is made between the structures of Beinn Dronaig and the Monte Rosa (Pennine Alps), and the danger of using doubtful stratigraphy to determine structure is pointed out. It is emphasised that recumbent structures will, in general, have a strike nearly at right angles to the axial-trend. On Beinn Dronaig, even where the strike is NE-SW, the axial-plunge is towards the SSE. Thus, in fact, only one system of folding is present, and its trend is nearly at right angles to the strike of the Moine Thrust-plane. The ‶Lewisian inliers″ do not root
in situ;
they are discontinuous bodies in the core of a recumbent fold. ‶Mullion-structure″ and pegmatite eyes are common throughout the area, but are especially characteristic of the fold-hinge.
The contact phenomena on the north-west of the Crossdoney Complex, Co. Cavan
Authors: Skiba Wlayslaw
Published: December 2013

On the north-west of the Crossdoney Complex two gradational contacts are well exposed. The first, in the quarry north-west of Bellahillan Bridge, is between biotite-plagioclase-hornfels and porphyritic granodiorite with quartz-bearing monzonite and melanocratic granodiorite as linking rocks. The second, at Drummora Great, is between metamorphosed argillaceous greywacke and porphyritic granodiorite with quartz-diorite and biotite-hornblende-diorite as intermediate rocks. Also developed are small irregular lenticles and pods of hornfelso-tonalite within plagioclase-biotite-hornfels. Field relations and study of thin sections show that the irregular bodies are the result of metasomatic replacement.

Textural, mineralogical and chemical evidence, and the gradational contacts between porphyritic granodiorite and the metamorphosed country rocks provide ample evidence that the igneous-looking rocks have developed as a replacement of country rocks without passing through a liquid state. The processes responsible for the transformation of greywackes are interpreted as desilication (feldspathisation and/or basification) followed by granitisation. Near the contact the hornfelses are enriched in biotite and hornblende, implying a chemical enrichment in Fe, Mg, Ca and K, that is, basification. The culmination of this enrichment is shown by the dioritic and monzonitic rocks. These basic enrichments are accompanied by enrichment and culmination of minor elements such as Ti, Mn and P. The results of feldspathisation are also illustrated by the rocks described. It is shown that the basified and feldspathised rocks approach and reach the composition either of tonalite by increase of SiO
2
or of granodiorite by increase of SiO
2
and alkalis, accompanied in each case by decrease of cafemic constituents.
The geology of Chishanya, Buhera District, Southern Rhodesia
Authors: Swift William H.
Published: December 2013

The area described consists of Pre-Cambrian granite, overlain unconformably in the south-east by sediments of the Umkondo System. An alkaline complex, consisting of syenites, nepheline-syenite, ijolites and carbonatites, occurs in the granite, and both granite and Umkondo sediments are cut by dykes of alkaline rocks, nepheline-basalts, nepheline-basanites and phonolites.

Evidence is presented indicating that the alkaline dykes are magmatic in origin and that the carbonatite is an intrusive rock which is not derived from limestone of the Umkondo System. The syenite is regarded as fenitised granite and it appears possible that the ijolite may also be a fenitised rock. The origin of the nepheline-syenite is discussed.

Some comparisons are made with the alkaline ring-complexes at Shawa and Dorowa (Southern Rhodesia) and the opinion is expressed that the carbonate cores of these are also magmatic carbonatites.
A contribution to the petrochemistry and petrogenesis of the composite sill of South Bute
Authors: Buist David S.
Published: December 2013

In 1913, W. R. Smellie described the Composite Sill of South Bute as composed of five sheets: a thick middle dolerite flanked by sheets of quartz-porphyry which in turn are ensheathed by an upper and lower dolerite. He believed the basic rocks to be parts of a single injection which was followed by injections of acid magma along belts of weakness between the massive marginal dolerites and the jointed middle dolerite. Reasons are given in the present paper for inferring that the marginal sheets of dolerite were formed by a first surge of basic magma and the middle dolerite by a later surge,
i.e.,
the sill is regarded as a composite multiple sill. The dolerites have been contaminated by the quartz-porphyry prior to emplacement and the latter carries xenoliths of dolerite picked up during its intrusion. Smellie’s estimate of the proportion of quartz-porphyry (27 per cent.) contained in the marginal dolerite is confirmed by chemical analyses. It is shown that the uncontaminated basic rock would have had a composition comparable with that of crinanite. A hypothetical mechanism is suggested to account for the emplacement of the acid members of the sill between the upper and middle dolerites and between the lower and middle dolerites. A modification of this mechanism suggests how acid magma obtains access to the interior of a basic intrusion, this being the relationship found in most Tertiary composite sills and dykes.
Variations in
Aulophyllum fungites
from Petershill Limestone, Lower Carboniferous, Bathgate, West Lothian, Scotland
Authors: Parks James M.
Published: December 2013

From a random collection of rugose corals, fifty-two mature and complete specimens of
Aulophyllum fungites
were obtained for a statistical study of variation. Six characters were chosen as variables: diameter of coral; diameter of axial complex; number of major septa; length of major septa; number of peripheral septal lamellae; and number of central septal lamellae. The frequency distribution of each variable is unimodal. The range, dispersion, and correlation of the variables are shown in tables and statistical calculations. These describe quantitatively this random sample of this particular population or community of
Aulophyllum fungites.
Moine tectonics and metamorphism in Skye
Authors: Bailey E.B.
Published: December 2013

A critical reassessment is undertaken of local research on Caledonian tectonics and metamorphism in Skye and nearby Lochcarronside. This is extended to cover related investigations by Read on dislocation-metamorphism in Sutherland. Clough’s amazing tectonic discoveries are confirmed, as also his finding that Moine metamorphism must be Caledonian in date unless the main dislocation-metamorphism that accompanies the Moine Thrust in Skye is itself pre-Caledonian. The author thinks this last possibility so remote that he follows Peach in accepting a Caledonian date for Moine metamorphism.
A structural profile south of Eyemouth, Berwickshire
Authors: Mackenzie D.H.
Published: December 2013

Structural data from an area of folded greywackes and shales in the Southern Uplands are presented. Geikie’s 1864 structural interpretation is critically examined; a revised interpretation is given, based on the construction of a profile normal to the fold axes. The structure consists of broad, open anticlines and synclines plunging south-westwards.
Eddleston Gravel moraine
Authors: Bailey E.B. , Eckford R.J.A.
Published: December 2013

It is suggested that a kamiform gravel-moraine can be traced along the Eddleston and Meldon valleys to continue up the Stobo reach of the Tweed valley. The supplying glacier was fed from the west. The main Eddleston kame is now extensively opened, and its material dips steeply, transversely, to the east. The lower Eddleston valley seems to have been sheltered during the kame episode by the Meldon valley to the west. In all three valleys it looks as if the glacier tended to be limited by valley-bottom marginal torrents.
Mineralogy of basalts from the western Kilpatrick Hills and its bearing on the petrogenesis of Scottish Carboniferous olivine-basalts
Authors: Hamilton John
Published: December 2013

Some of the results of an investigation of olivine-basalts of Calciferous Sandstone age from the western part of the Kilpatrick Hills are recorded. In particular, aspects of the mineralogy of the three essential minerals—pyroxene, feldspar and olivine—are described and discussed.

The pyroxene phenocrysts in some types of basalt are believed to have been corroded and regrown in an environment slightly different from that in which they originally grew. The groundmass pyroxene in all the basalts appears to be augite, not pigeonite as in some other petrographic provinces.

Evidence suggesting that some feldspar phenocrysts have had a complicated history is presented and the composition-zoning of olivine phenocrysts is described.

The part played by pre-existing gabbroic material in the genesis and evolution of the different basalt types is discussed. It is suggested that the Scottish Calciferous Sandstone olivine-basalts may have resulted from the differential fusion of gabbro in a manner which allowed volatiles and feldspathic material to advance slightly ahead of the more pyroxenic fractions.
How old is the earth?
Authors: Holmes Arthur
Published: December 2013

The advances made during the last decade in estimating the time that has elapsed since the original material of the earth became differentiated into crust, mantle and core are briefly reviewed. The earlier estimates (3,300-3,500 m.y.) based on the isotopic compositions of lead from galenas of known age are now replaced by one of about 4,500 m.y., as a result of the steadily increasing wealth of available data. Patterson and his co-workers have found that the proportions of lead isotopes (to lead-204) in lead from iron meteorites are lower than those in lead from any other known source. Adopting such lead as primeval, Patterson finds that both meteorites and the earth have essentially the same age, 4,550 ±70 m.y. Using a series of leads ranging in age from the present to over 2,900 m.y. ago, I find 4,500 ±100 m.y. for the time since primary differentiation. Using only Palaeozoic and younger leads, Russell and Allan reach an estimate of 4,300 ±400 m.y. Possible differences between meteorites and the earth in age and primeval-lead composition are discussed, and reasons are given for thinking that the sialic crust seems to be a more likely source of lead ores than the ultrabasic material of the underlying mantle.
Arenigian and Llandeilian cherts identified in the Southern Uplands of Scotland by means of conodonts, etc.
Authors: Lamont A. , Lindstrom M.
Published: December 2013

Light-coloured cherts and associated shales in the Southern Uplands of Scotland have yielded Arenigian and Llandeilian conodont faunas largely identical with faunas of these ages in Sweden. Some of the localities are type localities of John Smith's (1907), yet none of his species could be identified with certainty.
New evidence of volcanicity in west Fife
Authors: Francis E.H.
Published: December 2013

Recent borings have revealed an important volcanic episode in Limestone Coal Group times west of Culross and eight other episodes, most of them very localised outbreaks, in Upper Limestone Group times in other parts of West Fife. Additional small-scale centres of Upper Limestone Group volcanicity may be buried beneath younger rocks. The volcanic rocks are mainly derived from comminuted sedimentary rocks: some contain thin basaltic intrusions. One lava flow is recognised. The mechanism of tuff formation is discussed with reference to necks in East Fife. Some assessment of the importance of the volcanicity to the coal mining industry is made.
Old Red Sandstone lavas of the eastern Sidlaws
Authors: Harry W.T.
Published: December 2013

The Old Red Sandstone lavas of the Eastern Sidlaws are described. Olivine-basalts predominate. There are also a number of two-pyroxene basalts of which two have been chemically analysed. Comparisons are made with other Old Red Sandstone lavas in adjacent areas. It is seen that the lava suite of the whole Sidlaw range is predominantly basic in character.
Sedimentary features and tectonics in the Dalradian of western Perthshire
Authors: Bowes D.R. , Jones K.A.
Published: December 2013

Dalradian rocks in west Perthshire contain structures which resemble either current bedding or graded bedding, but have been formed by tectonic deformation or by mineralogical reconstitution. As the dominant banding of the rocks in the area investigated is of tectonic, not sedimentary, origin, the few sedimentary structures that remain are of no value in the interpretation of stratigraphic sequence or of major structure.
The structural problem of the younger gabbros of north-east Scotland
Authors: Stewart F.H. , Johnson M.R.W.
Published: December 2013

The evidence for and against deformation of the gabbroic masses is discussed. It is suggested that some of the so-called “older” igneous rocks, at Portsoy and along the western margin of the Huntly mass, are actually parts of the “younger” Huntly mass. The younger masses are later than the early fold structures of the Banffshire coast. Evidence from the primary structures of the igneous masses strongly favours deformation by the Boyndie-Buchan group of folds. Evidence against such folding, although suggestive, cannot be accepted without further work. It is likely that a solution will be found when the Insch and Huntly masses and the rocks of their thermal aureoles have been studied in detail.
Intrusive tuffs related to the Firth of Forth volcanoes
Authors: Francis E.H.
Published: December 2013

Tuffs intruded into sediments adjacent to Carboniferous necks are described from borings in the Fife coalfields: some consist wholly of comminuted sediments while others contain basaltic lapilli. They form dykes or, less commonly, sills and occur also as matrices of breccias at or near the neck margins. The intrusions are collated with others associated with the necks exposed on the shores of the Firth of Forth; many of these have been described hitherto as structures of sedimentary or otherwise non-volcanic origin. They are now taken to illustrate stages in the formation of the Firth of Forth necks by a gas-fluxion process.
Mylonitic rocks of the Moine Thrust-zone in the Assynt Region, North-West Scotland
Authors: Christie John M.
Published: December 2013

The terminology of mylonitic rocks is reviewed. The mylonitic rocks in the thrust-zone are divided on the basis of textures into two groups, distinguished as
Primary
and
Secondary
Mylonitic Rocks. The primary mylonitic rocks are characterised by crystalloblastic textures and lack of post-crystalline strain in the constituent grains; texturally, they grade, with increasing grain size, into typical Moine Schists above the thrust-zone. The writer is in agreement with the views originally expressed by Lapworth and Peach as to the origin of these mylonitic rocks: namely, that they were formed in a movement-zone between the Moine Nappe and the Foreland during the regional metamorphism of the Moine Schists. The secondary mylonitic rocks are characterised by cataclastic breakdown of all the minerals; they are formed from primary mylonitic rocks and low-grade Moine Schists, indicating that they originated in a later phase of deformation. The secondary mylonitic rocks are not noticeably diaphthoritic, a feature which is probably due to the low grade of progressive metamorphism in the primary mylonitic rocks and Moine Schists in the vicinity of the thrust-zone.

The study indicates at least two periods of mylonitization in the thrust-zone, the earlier of which was contemporaneous with the regional metamorphism of the Moine Schists.
On Dalradian structures in north-east Scotland
Authors: Johnson M.R.W. , Stewart F.H.
Published: December 2013

Sutton and Watson (1956) established the presence of a major fold—the Boyndie Syncline—in the Lower and Upper Dalradian rocks of N.E. Scodand. Examination of the coastal exposures between Portsoy and Macduff has added some new structural data to that collected by Sutton and Watson and it is suggested that the Boyndie syncline is a late structure that has been superimposed on a group of roughly east-west trending structures. The relation of the metamorphic events (“Barrovian” and “Buchan” types) to the fold history is briefly discussed and some comments are included on the status of the Banff Nappe proposed by H. H. Read.
The magmatic complex at Kingscross Point, Isle of Arran
Authors: Tomkeieff S.I. , Longstaff Margaret
Published: December 2013

The magmatic complex at Kingscross Point, Isle of Arran, shows a fragmentation of a previously intruded olivine dolerite by a later intrusive crinanite. Dolerite inclusions in contact with crinanite show narrow melt-zones. In places mobilised rheomorphic basalt intrudes crinanite and dolerite.
‘Cave Pearls’ and other Calcitic Precipitations in Manuel Fireclay Mine, Linlithgow
Authors: Conchar J. , Manson W.
Published: December 2013

The rare and unusual occurrence of oolites and pisolites, including ‘cave pearl’ types, in a mine in Scotland has prompted the preparation of this account. It refers to their shapes, the character of their surfaces, their composition and the conditions under which they have been formed. Reference is also made to the calcitic precipitations associated with them.
The Geology of the Hagshaw Hills Silurian Inlier, Lanarkshire
Authors: Rolfe W.D. Ian
Published: December 2013

The 5000 ft. of pre-Downtonian or pre-Dittonian Silurian rocks of the Hagshaw Hills inlier of the Midland Valley of Scotland, have been redivided into nine formations, three more than recognised by Peach and Horne (1899). A poorly preserved shelly fauna from 900 ft. of marine turbidites shows lower beds of the inlier to be Upper Llandoverian-Lower Wenlockian, and not Salopian as previously reported. Comparison with other recently revised inliers of this region suggests an uppermost Valentian age for these beds. Current direction data show an anomalous southern derivation for the turbidites.

Higher beds in the inlier are paralic or even terrestrial. Fossils from the Fish Bed Formation, previously thought to be the bryozoan
Glauconomella disticha
(Goldfuss), are described and referred to
incertae sedis.
A new locality of the Fish Bed is recorded.

A large number of faults and igneous intrusions complicate the overturned asymmetrical anticline, and it is suggested that the bases of conglomerates have acted as detachment horizons during tectonism.
Helicitic Textures in Garnets from the Moine Rocks of Moidart
Authors: Howkins J.B.
Published: December 2013

Helictic textures in garnet crystals indicate polymetamorphism in the Moines. An early garnet-grade metamorphism occurred during the interval between the first and second fold movements. A second garnet-grade metamorphism occurred during the second fold movement. Microfabrics of quartz inclusions within garnets are reported and are compared with the microfabrics of the matrices of the schists that contain the garnets.
Sedimentary structures and palaeocurrent directions from the Silurian rocks of Kirkcudbright
Authors: Craig G.Y. , Walton E.K.
Published: December 2013

New sedimentary structures are described from a thick greywacke/mudstone succession. The structures include modified ripple marks, nodule trails and orthocone prod marks. Further evidence is given and comment made on the genesis of longitudinal ridges, chevron marks and large-scale current bedding. Palaeocurrent directions statistically determined from 353 observations show that the dominant turbidity currents during Riccarton (Wenlock) and Upper (?) Silurian times came from the north-east (
i.e.
parallel to the axis of the Caledonian geosyncline) with minor currents from the south-west. Currents at right angles to the axis of the geosyncline deposited the transverse ripples.
Strand lines at 140 and 190 feet in the Howe of Fife
Authors: Knox J.
Published: December 2013

Phenomena in the Howe of Fife are described and interpreted as evidence of late-Glacial sea-levels at 190 and 140 feet O.D. The 140-ft. level is probably to be equated with the highest of the generally accepted late-Glacial raised beaches which attains a height of 135 feet in the Firth of Forth area. The suggestion that in Britain there may have been a late-Glacial sea-level at 190 feet O.D. is unorthodox, however, and attention is drawn to an earlier paper in which this theory has already been advanced.
Relations of movement and metamorphism in the Dalradians of Banffshire
Authors: Johnson M.R.W.
Published: December 2013

The Dalradian rocks of Banffshire have been affected by at least four periods of folding. The earliest period resulted in the formation of isoclinal folds which are presumed to be related to large-scale recumbent folds, such as the recumbent anticline of Banffshire and Aberdeenshire postulated mainly on stratigraphical grounds by Professor H. H. Read. The Boyndie Syncline, first described by Sutton and Watson and the only major fold recognised in the Banffshire coast section, belongs to the third fold period.

Textural evidence is given for polymetamorphism in the Banffshire Dalradian. The movements responsible for the primary recumbent folds were probably accompanied by only a low-grade metamorphism. The main phases of constructive metamorphism occurred before, during and after the second fold movements. The metamorphic climax, during which both Buchan and Barrovian types of metamorphic mineral assemblages developed, is shown to have occurred after the second fold movements. The andalusite-cordierite-staurolite assemblages (Buchan type) apparently formed at a higher structural level than the garnet-staurolite-(kyanite) (Barrovian type of assemblages). During the third and fourth fold movements lower grade metamorphic conditions prevailed; local retrograde metamorphism occurred.

By reference to the work of Rast, Sturt and Harris a comparison is made between the available time-scales of structural and metamorphic events in Banffshire and Perthshire. Many points of similarity are revealed; in particular it is found that the climax of metamorphism (indicated by the Buchan metamorphism in Banffshire and the main Barrovian type metamorphism in Perthshire) is co-eval in the two regions, which represent different structural levels.
The stratigraphy of the Great Estuarine Series (Middle Jurassic of the Inner Hebrides)
Authors: Hudson J.D.
Published: December 2013

The successions in the Great Estuarine Series in Northern and Southern Skye, Raasay, Eigg, Muck, Ardnamurchan and Mull are described and correlated. The limits of the Series are defined in each area, and the evidence for its age in the standard zonal scheme is reviewed. It is concluded that the Series is Upper Bajocian to Upper Bathonian; it is the approximate equivalent of the Yorkshire Upper Deltaic Series. Algal beds previously described from Skye have now been recognised in Eigg and Muck. The Series was deposited in brackish-water lagoons; it is not truly estuarine nor truly deltaic.
The Hebridean Plateau magma type
Authors: Tilley C.E. , Muir I.D.
Published: December 2013

The several chemical compositions assigned to the Hebridean Plateau Magma Type are critically re-examined. These ‘ averages ’ lack conformity with the known modal composition of fresh representative lava examples. The Type, like its Hawaiian counterpart, is probably nepheline normative. New analytical data are discussed.
Experimental production of sole markings
Authors: Dzulynski St. , Walton E.K.
Published: December 2013

Sole markings have been produced by pouring suspensions of plaster-of-paris and water into tanks containing settled clay or gelatine. The observed processes lead to new or modified hypotheses concerning the origin of dendritic ridges, longitudinal furrows, certain tool marks and frondescent marks. In other experiments, load structures were produced by sieving sand and plaster-of-paris mixtures on to settled clay of varying densities.
Sedimentary features of the Rhum Torridonian
Authors: Welsh W.
Published: December 2013

Sedimentary structures suggest deposition in shallow water. Histograms of the orientations of cross laminae and ripple marks suggest current flow directions for various formations as follows:—Bagh na h-Uamha Shales, north-east; Rudha na Roinne Grit, south-west; Guirdil Arkose, north-west.