bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Petrography, mineralogy and diagenesis of overpressured Tertiary and Late Cretaceous mudrocks from the East Shetland Basin
Authors: Huggett J. M.
Published: November 2006

The petrography, mineralogy and diagenesis of an overpressured Tertiary and Late Cretaceous mudrock sequence from a single well in the East Shetland Basin (North Sea) are described. The clay fraction is believed to be dominated by volcanic glass above 1400 m depth and by smectite below 1400 m. The smectite content increases with depth due to an increase in detrital smectite and toin situalteration of volcanic glass and grains; this commenced almost immediately after deposition and is still not complete at burial depths >2300 m. There is little evidence of alteration of the smectite to illite despite a local available supply of K+in the form of K-feldspar and the presence of K in the more deeply buried smectite. Very little leaching or precipitation of quartz has occurred. Microfossil tests filled with authigenic clays such as have been reported in other Tertiary mudrocks in the North Sea were not observed, though a few fossil cavities are filled with carbonate cements, and very rarely with microquartz. The suprisingly limited reactivity of this mudrock sequence may be due to the early development of overpressure, resulting in a “closed” system, and to the absence of interbedded higher permeability layers or open faults through which fluids could be exchanged.
Crystal chemistry and significance of cation ordering in Mg-Al rich spinels from high-grade hornfels (Predazzo-Monzoni, NE Italy)
Authors: Princivalle F. , Della Giusta A. , De Min A , Piccirillo E. M.
Published: November 2006

Two Mg-Al spinels (FAS1 and FAS2) in high-grade hornfels from the Toal de Mason skarn (Predazzo Monzoni, NE Italy) were investigated by means of single crystal X-ray diffraction and electron microprobe analysis in order to evaluate the last intra-crystalline closure temperature.

The evidence provided by crystal chemical data from the investigated spinels, compared with that for two other spinels from a websterite dyke and a chlorite schist (TS2 and SP78a, respectively) with similar chemical characteristics, yielded a new empirical geothermometer. This allowed estimation of intra-crystalline temperatures as low as c. 400°C and indicates that the closure temperature of FAS1 and FAS2 is c. 500°C i.e. 150–200°C lower than the spinel crystallisation temperature.
Nomenclature of the micas
Authors: Rieder M. , Cavazzini G. , D’yakonov Yu. S. , Frank-Kamenetskii V. A. , Gottardi G. , Guggenheim S. , Koval’ P. V. , Müller G. , Neiva A. M. R. , Radoslovich E. W. , Robert J.-L. , Sassi F. P. , Takeda H. , Weiss Z. , Wones D. R.
Published: November 2006

End-members and species defined with permissible ranges of composition are presented for the true micas, the brittle micas, and the interlayer-deficient micas. The determination of the crystallochemical formula for different available chemical data is outlined, and a system of modifiers and suffixes is given to allow the expression of unusual chemical substitutions or polytypic stacking arrangements. Tables of mica synonyms, varieties, ill-defined materials, and a list of names formerly or erroneously used for micas are presented. The Mica Subcommittee was appointed by the Commission on New Minerals and Mineral Names of the International Mineralogical Association. The definitions and recommendations presented were approved by the Commission.
Raman spectra of synthetic ‘braggite’, (Pd,Pt,Ni)S
Authors: Merkle R. K. W. , Pikl R. , Verryn S. M. C. , De Waal D.
Published: November 2006

Raman spectra of synthetic ‘braggite’ ((Pd,Pt,Ni)S) vary systematically with
changes in Pt/Pd ratios, but this change is less pronounced than in ‘cooperite’
((Pt,Pd,Ni)S). Compared to ‘vysotskite’ (ideally PdS), the incorporation of Pt
leads to broadening of bands but the spectra of ‘vysotskite’ and ‘braggite’ are
similar, and spectra of ‘cooperite’ and the ‘braggite/vysotskite’ solid-solution
series are sufficiently different to facilitate distinction of these platinum
group minerals by Raman spectroscopy.
Ag-Cu exchange equilibria between α-miargyrite, chalcostibite, pyrargyrite,
and high-skinnerite: constraints on Ag-Cu mixing in α-miargyrite and
chalcostibite
Authors: Harlov D. E.
Published: November 2006

Ag-Cu exchange equilibria between α-miargyrite AgSbS2
and pyrargyrite Ag3SbS3 and between
chalcostibite CuSbS2 and both pyrargyrite and high-skinnerite
Cu3SbS3 are reported for the
temperature range 150–350°C. All of these features are constrained by Ag-Cu
exchange experiments (evacuated silica tubes; variable mass ratio) over the
temperature range 120–400°C. Chalcostibite is found to take very little Ag into
its structure. Utilizing Ag-Cu data from this study as well as the Ag-Cu solution
models for pyrargyrite and high-skinnerite, a two-site Ag-Cu non-convergent
ordered solution model for α-miargyrite () and a one-site Ag-Cu mixing model
for chalcostibite ( = 25.0 kJ/gfw) are formulated.
These results are constrained by a miscibility gap between α-miargyrite and
chalcostibite from 225 to 325°C. The mixing model for α-miargyrite is expanded to
include As for which α-miargyrite has a limited solubility along the Sb-As join
with smithite AgAsS2.
The nature and significance of sulphate-rich, aluminous efflorescences from
the Te Kopia geothermal field, Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand
Authors: Martin R. , Rodgers K. A. , Browne P. R. L.
Published: November 2006

Alunogen and meta-alunogen are the dominant phases present in transient
sulphate efflorescences that are the latest products of the alteration of
ignimbrite country rocks in the long-lived Te Kopia geothermal field.
Meta-alunogen pseudomorphs alunogen and both species occur as white, fibrous,
tangled masses, as prismatic, parallel growths, and as thin, platy, crystals, 8–15
μm across, that coalesce in an open cellular network. Small (<2 mm diam.)
spherical aggregates of radiating, acicular halotrichite
(Fe0.51Mg0.49Al2(SO4)4.22H2O),
potash alum, mirabilite, melanterite and tschermigite are present locally. The
cations needed to form these minerals derive from the host rocks with the
exception of sulphur and ammonia that come from H2S and
NH3 gases ascending with steam. The particular
efflorescence assemblage reflects the prevailing conditions and ionic activities
of a local micro-environment. Kaolinite formed by acid sulphate alteration is now
being altered by steam to yield alunogen. In turn, alunogen can react with silica,
or co-dissociate with silicic acid, to form kaolinite. The alternating dissolution
and reprecipitation of kaolinite and alunogen moves aluminium in and through the
surficial environment at Te Kopia.
Empirical calibration of the sulphur valence oxygen barometer from natural and
experimental glasses: method and applications
Authors: Matthews S. J. , Moncrieff D. H. S. , Carroll M. R.
Published: November 2006

New data on sulphur valence and magmatic oxidation state for Central Andean
volcanic rocks, in combination with published data for experimental and natural
samples, allow derivation of a simple relationship between magma oxidation state
and sulphur speciation. For a number of highly oxidized Central Andean volcanic
rocks fO2 has
been calculated using magnetite-ilmenite or olivine-spinel pairs and the sulphur
valence in glasses has been measured using the peak shift of S-Kα radiation
relative to a pyrite standard. Previously published experimental and natural data
have been incorporated with a wider range in
fO2 and
S valence. The variation in sulphur speciation (as S2- or
SO42-) as a function of log
fO2 is
described by an empirical polynomial fit which reproduces the data to within ±0.5
log units and allows use of electron microprobe measurements of the
S-Kα wavelength shift for estimation of magmatic
oxygen fugacities. This approach is applicable for
fO2
between FMQ-2 and FMQ+6, encompassing most terrestrial magmas. The method has been
used to calculate the in
fO2
conditions under which melt inclusions were trapped in andesitic magmas before
magma mixing in two Central Andean volcanoes, and to calculate the oxygen fugacity
of a slowly-cooled pyroclastic flow in which the Fe-Ti oxide phases have
subsequently re-equilibrated. In combination with Fe-Ti oxide data, two distinct
trends emerge for Lascar volcano. Basaltic andesite-andesitic magma chambers
follow T-fO2
trends which parallel the FMQ buffer curve, indicating ferrous-ferric iron
buffering of oxygen fugacity. Dacitic anhydrite-bearing magmas with admixed
basaltic andesite and andesite follow trends of increasing
fO2 with
decreasing temperature, indicative of buffering of
fO2 by
SO2-H2S in a co-magmatic gas phase.
This trend continues into the metamorphic aureole of the magma chamber, resulting
in highly oxidized (close to magnetite-hematite) conditions.
Surface oxidation studies of chalcopyrite and pyrite by glancing-angle X-ray
absorption spectroscopy (REFLEXAFS)
Authors: England K. E. R. , Charnock J. M. , Pattrick R. A. D. , Vaughan D. J.
Published: November 2006

The oxidation of chalcopyrite and pyrite was examined using
Fe-K- and Cu-K-edge
REFLEXAFS spectroscopy. The Fe XANES of the pyrite proved to be a very sensitive
indicator of oxidation, revealing the development of a goethite-like surface
species; the EXAFS data showed an increasing O:S ratio with the degree of
oxidation and gave Fe–O distances of c. 1.9 Å. On the
oxidized chalcopyrite surfaces, the development of Fe-O and Cu-O species was
observed, with both the XANES and EXAFS revealing the progressive development of
these species with oxidation. Differences in the sensitivity of the XANES and
EXAFS to the degree of oxidation can be related to the degree of long range order
and changes in the intensity of the pre-edge feature of the Fe are a function of
its oxidation state and coordination geometry in the surface species.
Fresh and weathered pyrochlore studies by Fourier transform infrared
spectroscopy coupled with thermal analysis
Authors: Nasraoui M. , Bilal E. , Gibert R.
Published: November 2006

Fresh and weathered pyrochlore from the Lueshe carbonatite complex (in the
northeast of the Democratic Republic of Congo) was studied by Fourier transfom
infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and by a combination of FTIR spectroscopy and thermal
analysis. The former was carried out in the spectral range 400–4000
cm−1. The spectra for fresh and weathered pyrochlores were
very different. For the weathered pyrochlore, two bands were identified as OH
vibration modes, one broad band with a maximum at 3413 cm−1
and another finer band at 1630 cm−1. The fresh pyrochlore
does not show OH absorption bands. The presence of OH confirms the hydrated state
of the weathered pyrochlore suggested by previous microanalytical work. The
combination of FTIR spectroscopy and thermal analysis allows ‘real-time’
observation of gas emanations and solid-state transformations taking place during
heating up to 800°C. For fresh pyrochlore, no solid transformation was detected,
except a CO2 emanation from 242–576°C. For the weathered
pyrochlore a dehydration was observed between 234–565°C followed by an exothermic
peak in Differential Scanning Calorimetric (DSC) curve at 604°C. This exothermic
peak corresponds to the formation of a Nb oxide phase. At higher temperatures the
weathered pyrochlore is partly decomposed, forming a dehydrated pyrochlore and a
Nb oxide phase. The combination of FTIR and thermal analysis has provided useful
information on both fresh and weathered pyrochlore transformations which has
clarified our understanding of the water control of the structural stability of
pyrochlore minerals.
Monazite-(Ce)-huttonite solid solutions in granulite-facies metabasites from
the Ivrea-Verbano Zone, Italy
Authors: Förster H.-J. , Harlov D. E.
Published: November 2006

Composite populations of monazite-group minerals of both metamorphic and
metasomatic origin have been discovered in thin layers of granulite-facies
metabasites interlayered with metapelites, located in the Val Strona di Omegna
region of the Ivrea-Verbano Zone, Italy. In addition to monazite-(Ce), which is
uncommonly poor in Th and is probably formed by incongruent dissolution of
apatite, these populations include members of the monazite-huttonite series. The
latter minerals contain between 13 and 30.1 mol.% ThSiO4 [=
huttonitic monazite-(Ce)], and are known from only half a dozen other occurrences
worldwide. We propose that breakdown of primary monazite-(Ce) in the metapelites
during granulite-facies metamorphism mobilized Th and the
REEs, which were then transported by high-grade
metamorphic fluids into the metabasite layers to form the Th-rich minerals of the
monazite-huttonite series.
Magmatic gold grains in the El Tale lamproite, Fortuna, SE Spain
Authors: Toscani L.
Published: November 2006

Gold of magmatic origin has been discovered in the lamproitic dyke of El Tale
(Fortuna, Province of Murcia), a small outcrop of ultrapotassic rocks of tile
Tertiary magmatic province of southeastern Spain. It is the first finding of gold
grains in lamproite magmas from southeastern Spain, and indeed worldwide. Pure
gold occurs only in the glassy groundmass as very rare spherules and globular
grains (up to 5 µm). Despite the occurrence of gold grains, the bulk rock contains
not more than ∼19 ppb Au.

The magmatic origin of gold is inferred from the heterogeneous distribution
of the grains in the rock, the shape of the grains (which is comparable to that of
gold grains crystallized experimentally from mafic liquids) and from the
As-Sb-S-Cl-poor composition of the bulk rock. The Pd/Ir and Au/Pd ratios, little
affected by the early segregation of olivine (∼10 vol.%), support an Au- and
PGE-rich composition of the mantle source. The low
fO2
(≈IW) and the complexing with F and alkalies probably favoured partitioning of Au
and PGE into the lamproite magma.
Oscillatory zoned chrome lawsonite in the Tavşanlı Zone, northwest
Turkey
Authors: Sherlock S. C. , Okay A. I.
Published: November 2006

Blueschist-facies metabasite rocks from the Tavşanlı Zone of northwest Turkey
have been found to contain an abundance of lawsonite displaying oscillatory
zoning. Lawsonite normally adheres to the ideal composition of
CaAl2[Si2O7](OH)2.H2O.
In two samples from the Tavşanlı Zone,
Al3+-Cr3+ substitution has occurred.
The Cr3+ was probably present in the protolith as magmatic
chromite, became incorporated into lawsonite during subduction, and is a
metamorphic feature resulting from quantities of Cr in the protolith and local
fluid conditions.
The infrared absorption band at 3596 cm−1 of the recrystallized
quartz from Mt. Takamiyama, southwest Japan
Authors: Niimi N. , Aikawa N. , Shinoda K.
Published: November 2006

Micro-FTIR (MFTIR) measurements were carried out on the natural
recrystallized quartz in Ryoke granites from Mt. Takamiyama. The recrystallized
quartz always shows a very strong IR absorption band at 3596
cm–1 (2.10 abs. cm–1 (normalized
absorbance) under unpolarized conditions at room temperature). However, naturally
deformed quartz does not show this absorption band, but only a characteristic
broad band centred at 3400 cm–1. This shows that the
predominant forms of H-related species in the recrystallized quartz are different
from those in naturally deformed quartz. The 3596 cm–1 band
is not affected by room-temperature X-ray irradiation or by annealing at
temperatures of up to 600°C, and shows broadening and a positive peak shift with
temperature in in situ high temperature measurements.
Polarized-MFTIR measurement shows that the band has a strong polarization; the OH
dipole is oriented at 35° to the a-axis in the
plane and is isotropically
distributed in the (0001) plane. From the stability of the band at high
temperatures and against irradiation and its sharpness, the band is considered to
be due to the Al(H) type point defect with no alkali which might occupy a
structural position in the quartz structure.
Petrology and geochemistry of xenoliths in lamprophyres from the Deccan Traps: implications for the nature of the deep crust boundary in western India
Authors: Dessai A. G. , Vaselli O.
Published: November 2006

Alkaline lamprophyre intrusives from the western Deccan Traps (Murud-Janjira, south of Bombay) host rare lithospheric xenoliths and megacrysts. The xenolith suite consists of clinopyroxenites and granulites which show eclogitic affinities. The former have transitional (porphyroclastic to equigranular) textures whereas the latter are porphyroclastic, xenomorphic to meta-igneous. The textural features provide evidence of ductile-brittle deformation. The protoliths of the pyroxenite and granulite xenoliths were formed as cumulates of alkaline and sub-alkaline magmas respectively.

Mineral chemistry and geochemical data for the xenoliths bear testimony to the metasomatized nature of the deep crust. The xenolith data coupled with the geophysical evidence indicate that the lower crust beneath Murud-Janjira is dominated by mafic granulites and pyroxenites. The latter have under- and intra-plated the continental crust beneath the region.
Bi-Sb energetics in sulfosalts and sulfides
Authors: Ghosal S. , Sack R. O.
Published: November 2006

Experimental brackets (300–450°C) on Sb-Bi partitioning between
stibnite-bismuthinites (Sb,Bi)2S3 and
sulfosalts in the AgSbS2–AgBiS2 binary
subsystem (α-Ag(Sb,Bi)S2,
β-Ag5(Sb,Bi)4I(Sb,Bi)IIS10)
and extant constraints are used to define mixing properties and standard state
Gibbs energies of Sb-Bi exchange reactions. They are also used to construct a
phase diagram for Ag(Sb,Bi)S2 sulfosalts. We infer that the
non-ideality associated with Sb-Bi mixing is largest in minerals of the
β-Ag5(Sb,Bi)4I(Sb,Bi)IIS10
series, and is sufficient to produce miscibility gaps between an ordered
intermediate species
Ag5(Sb)4I(Bi)IIS10
and Sb- and Bi-end-members at T < 240°C (measured in
terms of symmetric regular-solution-type parameters
¼WBi−SbIβ =
WBi−SbIIβ ∼ 8.5 kJ/gfw). The
non-ideality associated with the Sb-Bi substitution in stibnite-bismuthinite and
α-Ag(Sb,Bi)S2 is ≈ 70% that in the
Ag5(Sb,Bi)4I(Sb,Bi)IIS10
series (WBi−SbBS ≈ 12.0 kJ/gfw;
WBi−Sbα ≈ 6.0 kJ/gfw). It is
insufficient to produce exsolution at temperatures of ore deposition
(T >
Tc ≈ 88°C), but most likely is
responsible for a preponderance in molar Sb/Bi ratios towards end-member
compositions. Finally, positive Gibbs energies of the Sb-Bi exchange reactions and
indicate that Bi is more
compatible in stibnite-bismuthinite sulfides than in
Ag(Sb,Bi)S2 sulfosalts.
Zn-spinel in the metamorphosed Zn-Pb-Cu sulphide deposit at Mamandur, southern
India
Authors: Chattopadhyay P. K.
Published: November 2006

At Mamandur, southern India, zincian spinel is associated with Zn-Pb-Cu
sulphide ores, metamorphosed to the granulite facies. The Zn-spinel
(XZn = 0.44–0.82) occurs in assemblages of: (a) cordierite
+ biotite + sillimanite + sphalerite + pyrite and/or pyrrhotite; (b) garnet +
biotite + sphalerite + pyrite and/or pyrrhotite; (c) hornblende + biotite +
sphalerite + pyrite and/or pyrrhotite; and (d) it also occurs in highly sheared
quartz veins with sphalerite + pyrite/pyrrhotite. Two texturally and
compositionally distinct modes of occurrence of Zn-spinel have been recorded from
the metamorphic assemblages: one shows a polygonal, granular (equilibrium) fabric
with Zn-spinel grains in textural equilibrium with cordierite in the granulite
facies assemblage; the other which is involved in the formation of coronas in
garnet- and hornblende-bearing assemblage of a younger paragenesis (presumably
belonging to a late retrograde stage), shows distinct compositional zoning with
depletion of Zn and enrichment in Fe and Mg from the rim inwards. A third mode of
occurrence is as perfectly euhedral grains embedded in a quartzose matrix in
quartz veins, often with sphalerite moulded over the Zn-spinel grains.

From textural evidence and consideration of stoichiometric balance, Zn-spinel
occurring in association with cordierite is suggested to have formed by the
prograde reactions: 0.46 biotite (Mg-rich) + 1.80 sillimanite + 3.01 quartz + 0.11
sphalerite = cordierite + 0.20 Zn-spinel + 0.80 K-feldspar + 0.06 pyrite + 4(OH,F)
or 0.48 biotite (Mg-rich) + 2.08 sillimanite + 2.72 quartz + 0.26 sphalerite =
cordierite + 0.50 Zn-spinel + 0.83 K-feldspar + 0.13 S2 +
4(OH,F) and, the Zn-spinels occurring in association with garnet and hornblende by
the retrograde reactions: garnet + 4.53
Al2SiO5 + 4.17 sphalerite = 5.38 Zn
(-Fe)-spinel + 0.22 Ca-feldspar + 0.92 pyrite + 7.06 quartz + 1.23
S2 and hornblende + 26.93
Al2SiO5 + 20.17 sphalerite + 0.88
pyrite = 25.93 Zn-spinel + 2 Ca-feldspar + 56.81 quartz + 11.32
S2 + 2(OH,F) Zn-spinel in the sheared quartz vein may be
of (meta-) hydrothermal origin. Formation of sphalerite through sulphurization of
gahnite is ruled out on the evidence of the perfectly euhedral nature of the
spinel and the absence of any breakdown product from the spinel.
Sideronatrite and metasideronatrite efflorescence formed in a coastal
sea-spray environment
Authors: Garvie L. A. J.
Published: November 2006

Sideronatrite
[Na2Fe(SO4)2(OH)·3H2O]
occurs as yellow botryoidal encrustations on low cliffs of weathered
pyrite-bearing mudstones at Barton-on-Sea, Hampshire, England. Extensive areas of
the cliffs, up to ∼100 m2, are coated with sideronatrite and
its low solubility in cold water secures its longevity. Dry samples of
sideronatrite convert readily to metasideronatrite
[Na2Fe(SO4)2(OH)·H2O],
the reaction to sideronatrite being reversible. Sideronatrite, it is suggested,
forms as a result of weathering of pyrite that is present in the argillaceous
sediments and reaction with Na from the sea-salt spray.
EXAFS of copper in hydrosulfide solutions at very low concentrations:
implications for the speciation of copper in natural waters
Authors: Mosselmans J. F. W. , Pattrick R. A. D. , Charnock J. M. , Solé V. A.
Published: November 2006

Cu K-edge extended X-ray absorption fine structure (EXAFS) spectra have been
obtained for two very dilute solutions of copper in hydrosulfide solutions using
beamline ID26 at the ESRF. The concentrations of the solutions (4.4 ppm {69 µM} pH
9.5, 1.2 ppm {19 µM} pH 7.4) are such that the experiments illustrate that, with
the advent of third generation synchrotron sources, natural systems can now be
studied by EXAFS. Analysis of the data indicates an average environment for the
copper of 2.3 S atoms at 2.22 Å in the pH 9.5 solution of 2.5 S atoms at 2.23 Å in
the pH 7.4 solution. These results are in accord with the solubility study of
Mountain and Seward (1999), who conclude that
Cu(HS)2− and
Cu2(HS)2S2− are
the principal copper species in such solutions.
Crystal structure of barstowite (3PbCl2·PbCO3·H2O)
Authors: Steele I. M. , Pluth J. J. , Stanley C. J.
Published: November 2006

The crystal structure of barstowite (3PbCl2·PbCO3·H2O,P21/m,a= 4.2023(5),b= 9.2020(7),c= 16.6608(6)(Å), β = 91.829(9)°) from Bounds Cliff, St Endellion, Cornwall, has been determined to an R = 0.036. The structure can be described in terms of three layers stacked along [001] in the sequence …CACBCACBC… to give a 16.7 Å repeat. Layer A consists of face-sharing PbCl8distorted square antiprisms. Layer B is composed of Pb coordinated to 5 Cl and 2 O each with two H to form H2O groups. Layer C is formed by Pb coordinated to 5 Cl and 3 O which are from CO3groups. The H positions are deduced and are H-bonded to O from carbonates. The structural details were in agreement with previous deductions based on infrared spectra.
Discussion on Le Bas et al. (1997) ‘Oxygen, carbon and strontium
isotope study of the carbonatitic dolomite host of the Bayan Obo Fe-Nb-REE
deposit, Inner Mongolia, China’, Mineralogical Magazine, 61, 531–41
Authors: Campbell L. S.
Published: November 2006

Some important and interesting data on the O, C and Sr isotopic compositions
of rocks associated with the Bayan Obo Fe-Nb-REE
deposit have been reported by Le Bas et al. (1997).
However, a number of points relating to the interpretation of these data, and also
to the terminology adopted, are worthy of further discussion. The essence of this
discussion is that some of the geochemical and isotopic signatures found at Bayan
Obo are not exclusively consistent with an igneous origin. A replacement
hypothesis involving deep-sourced fluids could also explain the pattern of data,
if minor carbonatitic intrusions into a sedimentary sequence are
considered.
Inflammation in sputum relates to progression of disease in subjects with COPD: a prospective descriptive study
Authors: Parr David G , White Andrew J , Bayley Darren L , Guest Peter J , Stockley Robert A
Published: November 2006

Background

Inflammation is considered to be of primary pathogenic importance in COPD but the evidence on which current understanding is based does not distinguish between cause and effect, and no single mechanism can account for the complex pathology. We performed a prospective longitudinal study of subjects with COPD that related markers of sputum inflammation at baseline to subsequent disease progression.

Methods

A cohort of 56 patients with chronic bronchitis was characterized in the stable state at baseline and after an interval of four years, using physiological measures and CT densitometry. Sputum markers of airway inflammation were quantified at baseline from spontaneously produced sputum in a sub-group (n = 38), and inflammation severity was related to subsequent disease progression.

Results

Physiological and CT measures indicated disease progression in the whole group. In the sub-group, sputum myeloperoxidase correlated with decline in FEV1 (rs = -0.344, p = 0.019, n = 37). LTB4 and albumin leakage correlated with TLCO decline (rs = -0.310, p = 0.033, rs = -0.401, p = 0.008, respectively, n = 35) and IL-8 correlated with progression of lung densitometric indices (rs = -0.464, p = 0.005, n = 38).

Conclusion

The data support a principal causative role for neutrophilic inflammation in the pathogenesis of COPD and suggest that the measurement of sputum inflammatory markers may have a predictive role in clinical practice.
Gene expression profiling following constitutive activation of MEK1 and transformation of rat intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Komatsu Koga , Buchanan F Gregory , Otaka Michiro , Jin Mario , Odashima Masaru , Horikawa Yohei , Watanabe Sumio , DuBois Raymond N
Published: November 2006

Background

Constitutive activation of MEK1 (caMEK) can induce the oncogenic transformation of normal intestinal epithelial cells. To define the genetic changes that occur during this process, we used oligonucleotide microarrays to determine which genes are regulated following the constitutive activation of MEK in normal intestinal epithelial cells.

Results

Microarray analysis was performed using Affymetrix GeneChip and total RNA from doxycycline inducible RIEtiCAMEK cells in the presence or absence of doxycycline. MEK-activation induced at least a three-fold difference in 115 gene transcripts (75 transcripts were up-regulated, and 40 transcripts were down-regulated). To verify whether these mRNAs are indeed regulated by the constitutive activation of MEK, RT-PCR analysis was performed using the samples from caMEK expressing RIE cells (RIEcCAMEK cells) as well as RIEtiCAMEK cells. The altered expression level of 69 gene transcripts was confirmed. Sixty-one of the differentially expressed genes have previously been implicated in cellular transformation or tumorogenesis. For the remaining 8 genes (or their human homolog), RT-PCR analysis was performed on RNA from human colon cancer cell lines and matched normal and tumor colon cancer tissues from human patients, revealing three novel targets (rat brain serine protease2, AMP deaminase 3, and cartilage link protein 1).

Conclusion

Following MEK-activation, many tumor-associated genes were found to have significantly altered expression levels. However, we identified three genes that were differentially expressed in caMEK cells and human colorectal cancers, which have not been previously linked to cellular transformation or tumorogenesis.
Insights into Mechanisms of Bacterial Antigenic Variation Derived from the Complete Genome Sequence of Anaplasma marginale
Authors: PALMER GUY H. , FUTSE JAMES E. , KNOWLES DONALD P. , BRAYTON KELLY A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Persistence of Anaplasma spp. in the animal reservoir host is required for efficient tick‐borne transmission of these pathogens to animals and humans. Using A. marginale infection of its natural reservoir host as a model, persistent infection has been shown to reflect sequential cycles in which antigenic variants emerge, replicate, and are controlled by the immune system. Variation in the immunodominant outer‐membrane protein MSP2 is generated by a process of gene conversion, in which unique hypervariable region sequences (HVRs) located in pseudogenes are recombined into a single operon‐linked msp2 expression site. Although organisms expressing whole HVRs derived from pseudogenes emerge early in infection, long‐term persistent infection is dependent on the generation of complex mosaics in which segments from different HVRs recombine into the expression site. The resulting combinatorial diversity generates the number of variants both predicted and shown to emerge during persistence.
Rickettsiosis in Europe
Authors: BLANCO J.R. , OTEO J.A.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: In Europe, rickettsioses are long‐known infectious diseases. Until recently, it was thought that Mediterranean spotted fever due toRickettsia conoriiwas the only tick‐borne rickettsiosis in Europe. In the last decade newRickettsiaspp. have been implicated in human pathology (R. slovaca,R. sibirica mongolotimonae,R. helvetica). Furthermore, cases of infection due to flea‐borne rickettsioses (R. typhi,R. felis) have been described. Finally, although no outbreak of epidemic typhus has been reported yet in central and southern Europe, we should be aware of the possibility of reemergence of this disease in Europe. Other rickettsioses exist that have not yet been implicated in human pathology. We should consider that climate changes and other factors could contribute to the emergence and reemergence of other new diseases.
Epidemiology of Rickettsioses in North Africa
Authors: LETAÏEF AMEL
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The first description of Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF) was made by Conor and Brush in 1910 in Tunisia, where, at the same time, Nicolle described the role of lice in transmission of epidemic typhus. However, along this century, there have been few and fragmentary reports about ecology and epidemiology of rickettsioses in North Africa. This region was always considered, for these diseases, like other Mediterranean regions. The most human tick‐borne rickettsiosis known to occur in North Africa is MSF caused by R. conorii and transmitted by the brown dog tick, Rhipicephalus sanguineus. Recent studies showed that other arthropode‐transmitted rickettsiae are prevalent in North Africa: R. aeschlimannii, R. massiliae, and R. felis. Moreover, R. felis and R. aeschlimannii human infection were respectively confirmed, by serology in Tunisia, and by PCR in Morocco. The seroprevalence of R. conorii among healthy population was ranging from 5% to 8% in most of the countries. Epidemiological and clinical features are frequently resumed in an eruptive fever with eschar occurring in hot season in rural areas. Typhus group rickettsioses, caused by R. typhi and R. prowazekii are less frequently reported than in the 1970s. Seroprevalence of R. typhi among blood donors was from 0.5% to 4%. In Algeria about 2% of febrile patients had R. prowazekii antibodies. Moreover, reemerging threat of epidemic typhus should be considered, after the two cases recently diagnosed in the highlands of Algeria. Murine typhus, considered as “benign” typhus, is underestimated. When R. typhi was inserted in serologic tests, murine typhus became more frequently confirmed. In a recent study in Central Tunisia, we confirmed an emergence of murine typhus mistaken for R. conorii or viral infection. In addition to typhus surveillance, future studies have to determine which spotted fever group rickettsiae are prevalent in vectors and in human pathology.
Rickettsioses in Sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: PAROLA PHILIPPE
Published: November 2006

Abstract: Although rickettsioses are among the oldest known vector‐borne zoonoses, several species or subspecies of rickettsias have been identified in recent years as emerging pathogens throughout the world including in sub‐Saharan Africa. To date, six tick‐borne spotted fever group pathogenic rickettsias are known to occur in sub‐Saharan Africa, includingRickettsia conorii conorii, the agent of Mediterranean spotted fever;R. conorii caspia, the agent of Astrakhan fever;R. africae, the agent of African tick‐bite fever;R. aeschlimannii;R. sibirica mongolitimonae; andR. massiliae. On the other hand, fleas have long been known as vectors of the ubiquitous murine typhus, a typhus group rickettsiosis induced byR. typhi. However, a new spotted fever rickettsia,R. felis, has also been found to be associated with fleas, to be a human pathogen, and to be present in sub‐Saharan Africa. Finally,R. prowazekiithe agent of louse‐borne epidemic typhus continues to strikes tens to hundreds of thousands of persons who live in Sub‐Saharan with civil war, famine and poor conditions. We present an overview of these rickettsioses occurring in sub‐Saharan Africa, focusing on the epidemiological aspects of emerging diseases.
Rickettsial Diseases in Russia
Authors: TARASEVICH IRINA V. , MEDIANNIKOV OLEG Y.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Currently, several rickettsioses are officially being reported in the Russian Federation. These are epidemic typhus and Brill–Zinsser disease, both caused by Rickettsia prowazekii which has a historic prevalence in Russia. Nowadays only single sporadic cases of R. prowazekii infection are reported. The last significant outbreak occurred in 1997 in a mental nursing home, where 29 cases were identified. Registered morbidity of typhus in Russia varies from 0 to 0.01 per thousand for the last decade. Siberian tick typhus, caused by R. sibirica, is registered on a large territory from Pacific coasts to Western Siberia, and its incidence continuously increases, varying between 2.5 and 4.0 thousand officially registered cases per year. Astrakhan spotted fever, caused by R. conorii subsp. caspia has been recognized since 1983. Recently, Far Eastern tick‐borne rickettsiosis, caused by R. heilongjiangensis, has been described. Several other pathogenic spotted fever group rickettsiae have been detected and isolated from ticks in Russia; however, they have not yet been linked with clinical cases in these regions.
Rickettsioses in Australia
Authors: GRAVES STEPHEN , UNSWORTH NATHAN , STENOS JOHN
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Australia, an island continent in the southern hemisphere, has a range of rickettsial diseases that include typhus group rickettsiae (Rickettsia typhi), spotted fever group rickettsiae (R. australis, R. honei), scrub typhus group rickettsiae (R. tsutsugamushi), and Q fever (C. burnetii). Our knowledge of Australian rickettsiae is expanding with the recognition of an expanded range of R. honei (Flinders Island spotted fever) to Tasmania and southeastern mainland Australia (not just on Flinders Island), and the detection of a new SFG species (or subspecies), tentatively named “R. marmionii” in the eastern half of Australia. This rickettsia causes both acute disease (7 cases, recognized so far) and is also associated (as a “R. marmionii” bacteriaemia) with patients having a chronic illness. The significance of the latter is under investigation. It may be a marker of autoimmune disease or chronic fatigue in some patients.
Seroprevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum among Forestry Rangers in Northern and Northeastern Poland
Authors: STAŃCZAK JOANNA , GRZESZCZUK ANNA
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to evaluate the seroprevalence of A. phagocytophilum in a group of workers from 13 forest management areas of northern and northeastern Poland. A total of 478 sera were tested by indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Elevated IgG antibody titers were detected in 46 samples (9.6%). Of these, 34 (73.9%) had a titer of 1:64, 7 (15.2%) 1:128, and 5 (10.9%) 1:256. All seropositive persons disclaimed any clinical symptoms of HGA. The antibodies prevalent in persons with extreme outdoor activity and in indoor workers was comparable—9.6 % and 9.7%, respectively. Moreover, participants had no statisfically significant differences in the prevalence of antibodies related to sex, age, or years of employment.
Human Infection with Ehrlichia Canis Accompanied by Clinical Signs in Venezuela
Authors: PEREZ MIRIAM , BODOR MAIRIM , ZHANG CHUNBIN , XIONG QINGMIN , RIKIHISA YASUKO
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  A total of 20 human patients with clinical signs compatible with human monocytic ehrlichiosis (HME), who were admitted to the emergency clinic in Lara State, Venezuela, were studied. Thirty percent (6/20) patients were positive for Ehrlichia canis 16S rRNA on gene‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Compared with the U.S. strains, 16S rRNA gene sequences from all six patients had the same base mutation as the sequence of the E. canis Venezuelan human Ehrlichia (VHE) strain previously isolated from an asymptomatic human. This study is the first report of E. canis infection of human patients with clinical signs of HME.
Human Monocytic Ehrlichiosis and Human Granulocytic Anaplasmosis in the United States, 2001–2002
Authors: DEMMA LINDA J. , HOLMAN R.C. , McQUISTON J.H. , KREBS J.W. , SWERDLOW D.L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The epidemiologic features are described of cases of human monocytic ehrlichiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis in the United States.
Serotesting of Human Q Fever Distribution in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Authors: HAMZIĆ S. , BEŠLAGIĆ E. , ZVIZDIĆ Š.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Q fever is a zoonotic disease with worldwide distribution. It occurs in different geographic regions and climate zones. From 1990 till the end of 1997, only three infected individuals were registered in Bosnia and Herzegovina, during the year 1991, with the incidence of 0.05% 000.
From 1996 onward, there was a sudden aggravation of epizoological and epidemiological situation in particular regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
We performed serotesting during the 4‐year period from 2000 to 2003. We tested serum samples from 708 individuals from different regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Q fever was serologically diagnosed in 249 individuals. The overall seroprevalence was 35.2%. The acute disease form was confirmed in 79.9% of the whole seropositive sample. Most of the Q seropositive individuals were from Kakanj (17.3%), Mostar (15.3%), Sarajevo (12.5%), Bihać (9.6%), Zenica (9.2%), Gornji Vakuf (8.9%), Tešanj (4.4%), Visoko (2.8%), and Travnik (2.4%). The number and distribution of seropositive individuals suggests that Q fever is endemic in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Ticks and Tick‐Borne Rickettsiae Surveillance in Montesinho Natural Park, Portugal
Authors: SANTOS‐SILVA M. , SOUSA R. , SANTOS A.S. , LOPES D. , QUEIJO E. , DORETA A. , VITORINO L. , BACELLAR F.
Published: November 2006

Abstract: This study constitutes the first contribution to the knowledge of tick dynamics and its implication in the epidemiology of rickettsial diseases in Montesinho Natural Park (MNP), Bragança district of Portugal. Of 76 ticks collected, 12 (15.8%) wereDermacentor (D.) marginatus, 36 (47.4%)D. reticulatus,and 28 (36.8%)Rhipicephalus (R.) sanguineus.Isolation assays were performed by shell‐vial technique on 41 ticks. Israeli spotted fever strain was an isolate fromR. sanguineus, and three isolates ofRickettsia slovacawere obtained fromD. reticulatus. All 76 ticks were screened by PCR forRickettsiasp.,Ehrlichia (E.) chaffeensis,andAnaplasma (A.) phagocytophilum.RickettsiaRpA4 strain DNA was detected in 10D. marginatusand 2D. reticulatus, and Israeli spotted fever strain in 1R. sanguineus. NoE. chaffeensisorA. phagocytophiluminfection was detected. New host records are provided forD. reticulatus. Also described for the first time in Portugal is the isolation ofR. slovacafromD. reticulatusand the isolation of Israeli spotted fever strain fromR. sanguineus. This confirms the association of the last rickettsiae strain with the same vector tick as previously described in Israel and Sicily.
Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever in the United States, 1997–2002
Authors: CHAPMAN ALICE S. , MURPHY STACI M. , DEMMA LINDA J. , HOLMAN ROBERT C. , CURNS AARON T. , McQUISTON JENNIFER H. , KREBS JOHN W. , SWERDLOW DAVID L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The increased incidence of Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) in 1997–2002 compared with previous years may be related to enhanced awareness and reporting of RMSF as well as changes in human–vector interaction. However, reports on RMSF mortality underscore the need for physician vigilance in considering a diagnosis of RMSF for febrile individuals potentially exposed to ticks and stress the importance of treating such persons regardless of the presence of a rash.
Evidence of Infection in Humans with Rickettsia typhi and Rickettsia felis in Catalonia in the Northeast of Spain
Authors: NOGUERAS MARÍA MERCEDES , CARDEÑOSA NEUS , SANFELIU ISABEL , MUÑOZ TOMÁS , FONT BERNAT , SEGURA FERRAN
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Murine typhus is a cause of fever of intermediate duration in the south of Spain, where antibodies against Rickettsia typhi and Rickettsia felis were observed in humans. This study presents the first report from the northeast of Spain. Human serum samples were tested by serological test. R. typhi and R. felis seroprevalences were 8.8% and 3.2%, respectively.
Brazilian Spotted Fever: A Case Series from an Endemic Area in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: ANGERAMI RODRIGO N. , RESENDE MARIÂNGELA R. , FELTRIN ADRIANA F.C. , KATZ GIZELDA , NASCIMENTO ELVIRA M. , STUCCHI RAQUEL S.B. , SILVA LUIZ J.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  Brazilian spotted fever (BSF) is the most important tick‐borne disease in Brazil and is caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by the Ixodid tick Amblyomma cajennense, its main vector. We present epidemiologic aspects of a case series of patients admitted to the Hospital das Clínicas da UNICAMP from 1985 to 2003 with a confirmed diagnosis of BSF either by a fourfold rise in indirect immunofluorescence (IFA) titers of IgG antibodies reactive with R. rickettsii or isolation of R. rickettsii from blood or skin specimens. Seasonal variation of case occurrence seems to be associated with the life cycle of the tick. The recent reemergence of cases seems to be associated with the growing numbers of the capybara (Hydrochaeris hydrochaeris) and their expansion into urban areas.
Geoinformational Mapping of Foci of Siberian Tick‐Borne Rickettsiosis in Altai Krai
Authors: KUREPINA NADEZHDA YU. , ROTANOVA IRINA N. , OBERT ANATOLY S. , RUDAKOV NIKOLAI V.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The high rate of Siberian tick‐borne rickettsiosis morbidity in Altai Krai calls for research into its causation as well as public heath concern. We constructed a thematic map to assess the medical‐geographical situation, reveal disease foci, and define the risk level in the geographical regions covered.
Validation of a Rickettsia prowazekii–Specific Quantitative Real‐Time PCR Cassette and DNA Extraction Protocols Using Experimentally Infected Lice
Authors: ROZMAJZL PATRICK J. , HOUHAMDI LINDA , JIANG JU , RAOULT DIDIER , RICHARDS ALLEN L.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The presence of R. prowazekii in lice using R. prowazekii‐specific qPCR cassettes showed the changes of the rickettsial burden in the lice post‐infection.
Detection and Identification of a Novel Spotted Fever Group Rickettsia in Western Australia
Authors: OWEN HELEN , UNSWORTH NATHAN , STENOS JOHN , ROBERTSON IAN , CLARK PHILLIP , FENWICK STAN
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The extent to which rickettsiae are present in Western Australia (WA) is largely unknown. Recently there has been anecdotal evidence of a disease of unknown but possibly rickettsial origin occurring on Barrow Island, WA. Ticks were collected from people and screened using PCR. The rickettsial species was then cultured and its novelty and phylogenetic position examined. The infecting rickettsial species is divergent enough to be classified as a novel species. Sequence data suggest that the evolutionary route for Australian rickettsiae did not progress through a recent common ancestor. The pathogenic potential of the novel species is as yet unknown.
Low Incidence of Tick‐Borne Rickettsiosis in a Spanish Mediterranean Area
Authors: GUERRERO ANTONIO , GIMENO FLOR , COLOMINA JAVIER , MOLINA MERCÉ , OTEO JOSE ANTONIO , CUENCA MARIA
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  The aim of this study was to know the incidence of tick‐borne rickettsial disease in a Mediterranean area. The incidence in 5 years for 100,000 inhabitants was 1.7 for tick‐borne‐lymphadenopathy (TIBOLA) and 0.4 for Mediterranean spotted fever (MSF). MSH incidence during the last few years has been lower than expected; in contrast TIBOLA seems to be an emerging disease. At the present time our data suggest a low tick‐borne rickettsiosis incidence of MSF and a superior incidence of TIBOLA than MSF in the Spanish Mediterranean area.
Rickettsia slovaca Infection: DEBONEL/TIBOLA
Authors: IBARRA V. , OTEO J.A. , PORTILLO A. , SANTIBÁÑEZ S. , BLANCO J.R. , METOLA L. , EIROS J.M. , PÉREZ‐MARTÍNEZ L. , SANZ M.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This study describes the epidemiological, clinical, and microbiological characteristics of a new tick‐borne disease in Spain—Dermacentor‐borne necrosis erythema lymphadenopathy (DEBONEL). The clinical presentations include an eschar at the site of the tick bite, surrounded by an erythema and painful regional lymphadenopathy. The disease appears during the colder months and its vector is Dermacentor marginatus (D. marginatus). From January 1990 to December 2004, 54 patients presented at Hospital of La Rioja with these clinical and epidemiological data. The ratio of females to males was 32/22. The average age was 37 years. In all cases tick bites were located on the upper body (90% on the scalp). The median incubation period was 4.7 days. Signs and symptoms were mild in all cases. Only a small number of patients presented mild and nonspecific abnormalities in a complete blood cell count and mild elevation of erythrocyte sedimentation rates and C‐protein reactive and liver enzyme levels. Serological evidence of acute rickettsiosis was observed in 19 patients (61%). In 29% sera tested by polymerase chain reactions (PCRs) were positive. The sequence obtained from a PCR product revealed 98% identity with Rickettsia sp. strains RpA4, DnS14, and DnS28. All ticks removed from patients were PCR‐positive. Sequencing showed 8 of them identified as R. slovaca and 2 as Rickettsia sp. strains RpA4, DnS14, and DnS28.
Brazilian Spotted Fever: A Case Series from an Endemic Area in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: ANGERAMI RODRIGO N. , RESENDE MARIÂNGELA R. , FELTRIN ADRIANA F.C. , KATZ GIZELDA , NASCIMENTO ELVIRA M. , STUCCHI RAQUEL S.B. , SILVA LUIZ J.
Published: November 2006

Abstract:  This case series study is based on a retrospective review of medical records and case notification files of patients admitted to The Hospital das Clínicas da UNICAMP from 1985 to 2003 with a confirmed diagnosis of BSF either by fourfold rise in indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) titers of IgG antibodies reactive with R. rickettsii or isolation of R. rickettsii from blood or skin specimens. A median lethality of 41.9 % was observed between 1985 and 2004. The case‐fatality ratio of 30 % in our study, lower than the overall São Paulo state ratio, could be explained by a higher index of suspicion and a larger experience in our hospital, a regional referral center for BSF. The presence of the classical triad of fever, rash, and headache as described in RMSF was observed in fever than half (35.2%) of our patients.