bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel 33·3 kb deletion (‐ ‐KOL) in the alpha‐globin gene cluster: a brief report on deletional alpha‐thalassaemia in the heterogeneous eastern Indian population
Authors: Sarkar Anjali Angelika , Banerjee Subrata , Chandra Sharmila , Ghosh Moloy , Banerjee Debashish , Choudhury Manju Datta , Das Manikanchan , Dasgupta Uma B.
Published: July 2005

We have detected, in three unrelated eastern Indian individuals, a hitherto unreported alpha zero deletion, ‐ ‐KOL, in the heterozygous state, encompassing the embryonic zeta2‐globin and the duplicated alpha‐globin genes extending from c. 1150 bp upstream of the zeta2 globin gene to c. 960 bp downstream of the theta1 gene. Other deletions present in 120 unrelated, eastern Indian, putative alpha‐thalassaemia patients are −3·7 kb (16·25%), −4·2 kb (5%) and ‐ ‐SEA (3·33%).
Strain localization in sandstone during embryonic stages of shear‐zone evolution
Authors: Katz Yoram , Weinberger Ram
Published: July 2005

Geometric analysis of nested Riedel structures was used to identify and quantify strain localization processes within faulted Navajo sandstone. The analysis shows systematic deviation from the basic Riedel geometry complying with the Mohr–Coulomb criterion. Using cross‐cutting relations amongst deformation bands within the Riedel structures, and comparing the orientations of the deformation bands to theoretical strain calculations, we identify two coupling deformation mechanisms involved in the early stages of shear‐zone evolution, namely, granular flow and discrete faulting. Both mechanisms localize during strain accumulation, and the granular flow facilitates considerable change in the initial geometry of the Riedel structures. The analysis demonstrates a systematic sequence, by which new Riedel structures form after a constant amount of shear strain takes place in the sandstone. Analysis further indicates that granular flow is the major deformation mechanism during early stages of shear‐zone evolution and discrete faulting is the dominant mechanism during later deformation stages.
Grenvillian and Caledonian evolution of eastern Svalbard – a tale of two orogenies
Authors: Johansson Åke , Gee David G. , Larionov Alexander N. , Ohta Yoshihide , Tebenkov Alexander M.
Published: July 2005

Svalbard is located in the north‐west corner of the Barents Sea shelf and the Eurasian Plate, in a key area for interpreting Caledonian and older orogens in the Arctic region. Recent U–Pb dating in the Nordaustlandet Terrane of eastern Svalbard shows this terrane to consist of a Grenville‐age basement, overlain by Neoproterozoic to early Palaeozoic platformal sediments, and intruded by Caledonian anatectic granites. Deformation, metamorphism and crustal anatectic magmatism occurred both during the Grenvillian (960–940 Ma) and Caledonian (450–410 Ma) orogenies. This evolution shows great similarities with that of eastern Greenland. In the classical model, eastern Svalbard is placed outboard of central east Greenland in pre‐Caledonian time. Alternatively, it may have been located north‐east of Greenland and transferred west and rotated anticlockwise during Caledonian continent–continent collision. In the Neoproterozoic, easternmost Svalbard may have been part of a wider area of Grenville‐age crust, now fragmented and dispersed around the Arctic.
Burst of high‐temperature seawater injection throughout accreting oceanic crust: a case study in Oman ophiolite
Authors: Nicolas Adolphe , Mainprice David
Published: July 2005

Following the discovery of a high temperature (HT) (∼800 °C) and a very high temperature (1000 °C) hydrothermal alteration in the crust of the Oman ophiolite, a systematic structural and petrological study was conducted throughout the entire ophiolite, with supporting isotopic geochemistry. The published results showed that the crustal gabbros are extensively altered down to Moho by a large seawater flux, which was channelled through an identified recharge and discharge circuit. Microcracks, constituting the recharge system, propagated through the hot gabbros, accreting at the ridge and, in spite of their submillimetre width, provided the conduit for the large volume of seawater necessary for the observed alteration. Building on these results, we show here that these microcracks opened and were active over a time of a few tens of thousands years, while the newly accreted gabbros were drifting away from the ridge. Microcrack activity was highly episodic, with bursts of seawater ingression lasting a few days to a few weeks, followed by quiescence periods of a few tens of years. This model of HT, oceanic hydrothermal alteration has several implications concerning fast spreading oceanic ridges.
The age of the Paludi Formation: a major constraint to the beginning of the Apulia‐verging orogenic transport in the northern sector of the Calabria–Peloritani Arc
Authors: Bonardi Glauco , Capoa Paola de , Staso Angelida Di , Perrone Vincenzo , Sonnino Maurizio , Tramontana Mario
Published: July 2005

A stratigraphic revision of the Paludi Formation, cropping out in Northern Calabria on the north‐eastern side of Sila Massif, has confirmed that it has been deposited between two main tectonic phases. Actually the formation is involved only by top to the north‐east thrusts, different from those separating the crystalline and ophiolitic nappes of Northern Calabria, and rests unconformably on the Sila Unit, the uppermost nappe of the tectonic stack. In the frame of the interpretation of Northern Calabria as a fragment of the Alps, the Paludi Formation play the role of a deposit post‐dating the eo‐alpine tectonic phases and pre‐dating the Apenninic orogenic transport. Therefore the Aquitanian age of the formation, obtained by nannofloras analyses, can be considered the minimum age to the Apulia‐verging orogenic transport, witnessed by top to north‐east thrusts. It fairly corresponds to the age referred to the Lucanian ocean closure.
Integrated stratigraphy (cyclostratigraphy and biochronology) of late Middle Miocene deposits in the Mediterranean area and comparison with the North and Equatorial Atlantic Oceans: synthesis of the major results
Authors: Lirer Fabrizio , Iaccarino Silvia
Published: July 2005

The stratigraphic correlation of North and Equatorial Atlantic Ocean records with Mediterranean astronomically tuned sections reveals the diachrony of several planktonic foraminiferal bioevents, but shows the possibility to adopt the Mediterranean biostratigraphy in North Atlantic records. These data provide new tools for biostratigraphic correlation, mainly between the Mediterranean and the North Atlantic areas. Quantitative analyses carried out on planktonic foraminifera reveal the occurrence at Site 982‐HoleB (ODP Leg 162) of some bioevents in the same order as those recorded in Mediterranean sequences. In addition,Neogloboquadrina atlantica praeatlanticafirst occurrence (FO) [within the short range ofParagloborotalia mayeri,sensuRiv. Ital. Paleontol. Stratigr.108(2002) 257] occurs in levels older than its FO in the Mediterranean area where it first appears at the same level asN. acostaensiss.s. coinciding with the last occurrence ofP. partimlabiata. In agreement with the findings of Poore [Init. Rep. Deep Sea Drilling Proj.49 (1979) 447] and the hypothesis ofZachariasse and Aubry [Paleobios16(1994)68], the first representative of the neogloboquadrinids originated north of Iceland and migrated towards the southern latitudes at different times, first in the Mediterranean and mid‐latitude Atlantic Ocean, then in low‐latitudes (Site 397).
Reconstructing historical seismicity from lake sediments (Lake Laffrey, Western Alps, France)
Authors: Nomade Jérôme , Chapron Emmanuel , Desmet Marc , Reyss Jean‐Louis , Arnaud Fabien , Lignier Vincent
Published: July 2005

Sediment archives from a mountain lake are used as indicators of seismotectonic activity in the Grenoble area (French western Alps, 45°N). Sedimentological analysis (texture and grain‐size characteristics) exhibits several layers resulting from instantaneous deposits in Lake Laffrey: six debris flow events up to 8 cm thick can be attributed to slope failure along the western flank of the basin. Dating with 210Pb and 137Cs gamma counting techniques and the reconnaissance of historical events, provide a constrained age‐depth model. Over the last 250 years, five of such debris flow deposits could be related to historical earthquakes of MSK intensities greater than VI over an area of <60 km. One debris flow deposit triggered at the beginning of the last century can be related to an historical landslide possibly triggered by the artificial regulation of the lake level.
Tectono‐sedimentary evolution of the southern branch of the Western Tethys (Maghrebian Flysch Basin and Lucanian Ocean): consequences for Western Mediterranean geodynamics
Authors: Guerrera F. , Martín‐Martín M. , Perrone V. , Tramontana M.
Published: July 2005

The evolution of the oceanic Maghrebian Flysch Basin and its continuation in the Southern Apennines was studied by reconstructing mainly representative stratigraphic successions. In all sectors a common evolution has been identified. Rifting and drifting phases are indicated by remnants of oceanic crust, Jurassic limestones, Cretaceous–Palaeogene turbiditic and pelagic deposits. The pre‐orogenic sedimentation was mainly controlled by extensional tectonics and sea‐level changes. The occurrence of a generalized foredeep stage since the Early Miocene is testified by thick siliciclastic and volcaniclastic syn‐orogenic flysch successions. The deformation of the oceanic areas began in the Burdigalian and the resulting nappes were stacked in the growing chains. During the Middle Miocene, piggy‐back basins developed and the building of the chains was accomplished in the Late Tortonian. Areal distribution and ages of flysch deposits represent an important tool for the study of the diachronous growth of the accretionary wedges.
Mio‐Pliocene magnetostratigraphy in the southern Carpathian foredeep and Mediterranean–Paratethys correlations
Authors: Vasiliev Iuliana , Krijgsman Wout , Stoica Marius , Langereis Cor G.
Published: July 2005

A full understanding of the Mio‐Pliocene palaeogeographical and palaeoenvironmental changes in the circum‐Mediterranean region during the Messinian Salinity Crisis (MSC) is at present hampered by the lack of reliable chronostratigraphic correlations between the Mediterranean and Paratethys regions. Here, we present magnetostratigraphic ages for the Upper Miocene to Pliocene deposits of the southern Carpathian foredeep in Romania. These ages are in good agreement with those recently obtained from the eastern Carpathian foredeep and define a new chronology for the eastern Paratethys. The Meotian/Pontian boundary is not biostratigraphically constrained in our sections, but according to the geological map of the region arrives at ∼5.8 Ma. The Pontian/Dacian boundary is dated atc.4.8 Ma and the Dacian/Romanian boundary atc.4.1 Ma. The main part of the MSC (5.96–5.33 Ma) is thus represented by the Pontian Stage, but the observed palaeoenvironmental and biostratigraphic changes in our sections of the eastern Paratethys do not indicate any relation with the dramatic desiccation and reflooding events of the Mediterranean.
Radioisotopic dating of the Tortonian Global Stratotype Section and Point: implications for intercalibration of 40Ar/39Ar and astronomical dating methods
Authors: Kuiper Klaudia F. , Wijbrans Jan R. , Hilgen Frederik J.
Published: July 2005

In this paper we present new 40Ar/39Ar data of volcanic ash layers intercalated in the astronomically dated sections of Monte dei Corvi and Monte Gibliscemi (Italy) to obtain better radioisotopic time constraints on the Serravallian/Tortonian boundary and to confirm the intercalibration of radioisotopic and astronomical time proposed by Kuiper et al. [2004; Fish Canyon Tuff (FCT)‐sanidine at 28.21 ± 0.03 Ma]. The latter intercalibration is supported by astronomically calibrated FCT sanidine ages for two ash layers at Monte Gibliscemi (GiF‐1: 28.28 ± 0.04; GiD‐3: 28.16 ± 0.04 Ma; ±1 SE). As a consequence, our results support the astronomically calibrated age of 11.608 Ma for the Tortonian Global Stratotype Section and Point and, hence, the tuning of the Serravallian/Tortonian boundary interval. The Ancona and Respighi levels at Monte dei Corvi give a more diffuse picture, possibly because of contamination with detrital or xenocrystic material and the inferior quality of biotite for intercalibration purposes.
Efficacy and safety of two dosages of cotrimoxazole as preventive treatment for HIV‐infected Malawian adults with new smear‐positive tuberculosis
Authors: Boeree Martin J. , Sauvageot Delphine , Banda Hastings T. , Harries Anthony D. , Zijlstra Eduard E.
Published: July 2005

Objective  To assess the efficacy and safety of two different dosages of cotrimoxazole (CTX) in prophylaxis in HIV‐positive new smear‐positive pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) patients in Blantyre, Malawi.

Method  Randomized, double‐blind trial using 480 and 960 mg of CTX given to new TB patients, who were followed up until the end of the tuberculosis treatment. The primary outcome was survival. The outcome in the two groups was also compared with an unselected cohort of similar patients registered in Zomba, Malawi in 1995 and new smear‐positive patients registered in the National Tuberculosis Programme in 1999. The secondary outcome was the occurrence of (opportunistic) events, especially bacterial pneumonia.

Results  There were no statistically significant differences in mortality and bacterial pneumonia between the groups receiving the two different dosages. The case fatality rate at the end of the tuberculosis treatment was 15.4% in the 480 mg group and 14.0% in the 960 mg group. This was lower than the case fatality rate in the Zomba cohort (19.2%, P = 0.10) and lower than the case fatality rate in the national programme (21.0%, P < 0.001). CTX was well tolerated. Compliance was fair.

Conclusions  CTX prophylaxis may have a beneficial effect on mortality and morbidity in HIV‐infected smear‐positive tuberculosis patients in Malawi. The efficacy of both dosages is not significantly different. The intervention is cheap and easy to implement. These results would support implementation of CTX in this patient group until better strategies are available or evidence is convincingly presented to suggest that its benefit is marginal.
The epidemiology of animal bite injuries in Uganda and projections of the burden of rabies
Authors: Fèvre E. M. , Kaboyo R. W. , Persson V. , Edelsten M. , Coleman P. G. , Cleaveland S.
Published: July 2005

Objectives  Rabies is a global problem, although it is often under‐reported in developing countries. We aimed at describing the profile of patients presenting to health centres with animal bite injuries in Uganda, and use a predictive model to estimate the mortality of rabies at a national level.

Methods  We conducted a passive surveillance study in Uganda based in a random sample of health centres supplied with rabies vaccine to determine the characteristics of bite injury patients and establish the age and sex profiles of patients, the site of bites and their severity, wound management techniques and details of the vaccination course given. We also applied a decision tree model to the data to estimate the rabies mortality from the bite injury data using an established protocol.

Results  We found that most patients are bitten by dogs, and that a considerable proportion of these are young children, who are at greater risk of developing rabies in the absence of treatment due to the location of the bites they receive. From conservative parameter estimates, we estimate that in the absence of post‐exposure prophylaxis (PET), 592 (95% CI 345–920) deaths would occur, and that if one dose of PET is sufficient for protection following a rabid animal bite, 20 (95% CI 5–50) deaths would occur annually. If a complete course of PET is required for protection following a rabid animal bite, up to 210 (95% CI 115–359) deaths would occur, as 41% of patients did not complete their course of PET.

Conclusions  Active animal bite surveillance studies are required to improve our mortality estimates and determine the true burden of rabies in the Ugandan population. We emphasize the need for small‐scale active case detection studies and improved data on the recognition of rabies in dogs as inputs for improving national‐level estimates of rabies mortality.
Effects of vitamin A supplementation on child mortality: evidence from Nepal's 2001 Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Thapa Shyam , Choe Minja Kim , Retherford Robert D.
Published: July 2005

Objective To assess the effect of Nepal's vitamin A supplementation programme on child mortality at age 12–59 months.

Materials and methods Logistic regression, applied to retrospective data from Nepal's 2001 Demographic and Health Survey.

Results After a number of potentially confounding variables are controlled, the effect of 100% community‐level vitamin A coverage since the child's birth, relative to no coverage, is to reduce the odds of dying at age 12–59 months by slightly more than half (OR = 0.47,P = 0.03).

Conclusions The estimated beneficial effect of vitamin A supplementation on child mortality is larger than that found in most earlier clinical studies. This larger effect may be due mainly to the other health‐related activities undertaken by the female community health volunteers who distribute vitamin A capsules.
Impact of vector control on a dengue fever outbreak in Trinidad, West Indies, in 1998
Authors: Chadee Dave D. , Williams Fiona L. R. , Kitron Uriel D.
Published: July 2005

In 1998, Trinidad experienced its first major outbreak of dengue haemorrhagic fever. Data from the Trinidad Public Health Laboratory, the National Surveillance Unit and Insect Vector Control Division, Ministry of Health, Trinidad and Tobago were analysed to determine the impact of vector control measures on the dengue outbreak. Geographical Information Systems (GIS)/Global Positioning Systems (GPS) were used to map cases and to distinguish epidemiological clusters. The Aedes aegypti population densities were higher than the 5% transmission threshold in all counties. The spatial distribution of dengue fever cases was significantly correlated with the heavily populated east–west corridor in the north and several distinctly separate clusters in the western part of the island. The temporal distribution patterns showed significantly more dengue fever cases occurring during the rainy season than during the dry season. This study documents the importance of vector control in the prevention of dengue transmission since no vaccine is currently available, and emphasizes the urgent need to understand better the environmental factors which contribute to the proliferation of this disease vector Ae. aegypti.
Participatory evaluations of trachoma control programmes in eight countries
Authors: Kuper Hannah , Solomon Anthony W. , Buchan John C. , Zondervan Marcia , Mabey David , Foster Allen
Published: July 2005

Objectives  Trachoma is a major cause of blindness. The objective of this initiative was to conduct participatory process evaluations of the trachoma control programmes receiving support from the International Trachoma Initiative in eight countries.

Methods  During each 2‐ to 4‐week evaluation we analysed information collected at the central, district and community level through interviews, focus groups, questionnaires, direct observation of trachoma control activities, and existing data.

Results  Mapping and assessment of disease prevalence had been completed in four of eight countries. Integration of trachoma control activities into national planning and district‐level service provision varied. Intersectoral partnerships to implement the SAFE strategy (i.e. surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental change) were well established in a few countries. In all eight countries, the number of surgeries performed annually was insufficient; and quality of surgery was rarely monitored. Mass distribution of antibiotics was carried out well in extremely resource‐poor settings and good coverage was achieved, although the strategy for antibiotic distribution varied. Inadequate water and sanitation remained a major problem in all programme areas. Monitoring of programme activities was generally inadequate. The Morocco programme is an example from which lessons and processes can be learnt and adapted to other programme countries.

Conclusions  Significant achievements have been made in implementing the SAFE strategy. Scaling up of activities to true national coverage should be planned and implemented provided the resources can be made available. Further standardization of how to assess, implement and monitor trachoma control activities will facilitate expansion of the programme.
Effectiveness of dengue control practices in household water containers in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Phuanukoonnon Suparat , Mueller Ivo , Bryan Joan H.
Published: July 2005

Objective  To investigate the influence of larval control methods (using temephos, keeping fish and covering containers with lids), water use and weekly cleaning of containers on the presence of Aedes aegypti larvae in water‐storage containers in rural and urban households in Khon Kaen province.

Method  Cross‐sectional questionnaire survey and larval survey covered 966 households and 5821 containers were inspected.

Result  In rural and urban areas larval control was patchy and often ineffective. Consequently, the mosquito indices exceed the target indices for dengue control with the Breteau Indices of 201 and 113, and Container Indices of 25 and 28 in rural and urban areas, respectively. The containers most frequently infested with larvae were rectangular cement containers storing water for bathing (rural: 37.2%; urban: 35%) and flushing the toilets (rural: 35.7%; urban: 34.3%). Keeping fish [adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.08–0.16] was the most effective methods of control. Correctly covering containers with lids was similarly effective (AOR: 0.10–0.25) when used on jars for storing drinking water. However, frequent use of containers reduced the effectiveness of lids. Temephos was effective only in dragon jars in urban areas (AOR: 0.46) where a standard package of temephos were available. Weekly cleaning of containers was an effective method for larval control in most types of containers. A combination of control methods increased effectiveness.

Conclusion  This study highlights the complex interaction of household water use and larval control practices as well as the importance of determining the most effective control measures compatible with water practices for implementing control promotion.
Needle stick injuries among nurses in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Nsubuga Fredrich M. , Jaakkola Maritta S.
Published: July 2005

Objectives  Despite a heavy burden of HIV/AIDS and other blood borne infections, few studies have investigated needle stick injuries in sub‐Saharan Africa. We conducted a cross‐sectional study at Mulago national referral hospital in Kampala, Uganda, to assess the occurrence and risk factors of needle stick injuries among nurses and midwives.

Methods  A total of 526 nurses and midwives involved in the direct day‐to‐day management of patients answered a questionnaire inquiring about occurrence of needle stick injuries and about potential predictors, including work experience, work load, working habits, training, and risk behaviour.

Results  A 57% of the nurses and midwives had experienced at least one needle stick injury in the last year. Only 18% had not experienced any such injury in their entire career. The rate of needle stick injuries was 4.2 per person‐year. Multiple logistic regression analysis showed that the most important risk factor for needle stick injuries was lack of training on such injuries (OR 5.72, 95% CI 3.41–9.62). Other important risk factors included working for more than 40 h/week (OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.20–3.31), recapping needles most of the time (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.11–2.86), and not using gloves when handling needles (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.10–3.32).

Conclusions  The study showed a high rate of needle stick injuries among nurses and midwives working in Uganda. The strongest predictor for needle stick injuries was lack of training. Other important risk factors were related to long working hours, working habits, and experience.
No evidence of prolonged enterovirus excretion in HIV‐seropositive patients
Authors: Gouandjika‐Vasilache Ionela , Akoua‐Koffi Chantal , Begaud Evelyne , Dosseh Annick
Published: July 2005

Mutations frequently occur in oral poliovirus vaccine (OPV) strains upon replication in the human intestine. These strains occasionally revert to being neurovirulent. The more prolonged the excretion of OPV, the higher the risk of reversion. OPV strains can be secreted for several months in humans presenting humoral immune system deficiencies. The duration of excretion of OPV strains or other enteroviruses in individuals infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is unknown. We investigated whether HIV infection, which is very prevalent in the Central African Republic, causes prolonged excretion of enteroviruses and, in particular, of OPV strains in adults. We studied 28 HIV‐infected adults living with children who were immunized with OPV during national immunization days (NIDs). Blood samples were collected to confirm HIV status and to evaluate immunodeficiency before the NIDs. Stool samples for enterovirus isolation were also collected before the NIDs, between the two rounds of immunization and 2, 4 and 6 months after the second round of immunization. No poliovirus was isolated from any stool sample. Eight enteroviruses were isolated from eight adults (maximum one strain per patient). Enteroviruses were not more frequently isolated from severely immunodeficient patients. Thus, HIV‐infected adults do not appear to be at high risk of infection with OPV strains and the excretion of enteroviruses (and thus of polioviruses) does not seem to be prolonged in HIV‐infected adults.
Community‐based health insurance in developing countries: a study of its contribution to the performance of health financing systems
Authors: Carrin Guy , Waelkens Maria‐Pia , Criel Bart
Published: July 2005

We studied the potential of community‐based health insurance (CHI) to contribute to the performance of health financing systems. The international empirical evidence is analysed on the basis of the three health financing subfunctions as outlined in the World Health Report 2000: revenue collection, pooling of resources and purchasing of services. The evidence indicates that achievements of CHI in each of these subfunctions so far have been modest, although many CHI schemes still are relatively young and would need more time to develop. We present an overview of the main factors influencing the performance of CHI on these financing subfunctions and discuss a set of proposals to increase CHI performance. The proposals pertain to the demand for and the supply of health care in the community; to the technical, managerial and institutional set‐up of CHI; and to the rational use of subsidies.
Tuberculosis and HIV interaction in sub‐Saharan Africa: impact on patients and programmes; implications for policies
Authors: Maher Dermot , Harries Anthony , Getahun Haileyesus
Published: July 2005

Sub‐Saharan Africa carries the overwhelming share of the global burden of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and of HIV‐associated tuberculosis (TB). The impact of HIV on TB patients and programmes has implications for TB control policies. The impact on patients includes the effect of HIV on diagnosis and on the patterns of HIV‐related TB, the response of HIV‐infected TB patients to TB treatment, the benefits of antiretroviral therapy (ART), and the quality and continuity of care for TB patients. The impact on national TB programmes (NTPs) includes increased case load, impaired NTP performance, increased need for access to ART and difficulties in reaching TB control targets. Implications for policies include the need to promote TB and HIV/AIDS programme collaboration, aimed at improving NTP performance (TB case‐finding and treatment outcomes), quality and continuity of care, and monitoring and interpretation of progress towards TB control targets. In order to provide the recommended international standard of care for TB patients, clinicians need to be aware of the impact of HIV on TB patients and programmes and the implications for the policies that provide the framework for this standard. Conversely, policy‐makers need to understand the impact of HIV on TB patients and programmes. This can help to ensure a firm evidence base for TB control policies aiming at the high standard of patient care that is at the heart of TB and HIV programmes.
Preferential embrittlement of graphitic schists during extensional unroofing in the Alps: the effect of fluid composition on rheology in low‐permeability rocks
Authors: SELVERSTONE J.
Published: July 2005

Interlayered graphitic and non‐graphitic schists from the Tauern Window, Eastern Alps, record contrasting mechanical behaviour during extensional exhumation. Graphitic schists contain mesoscale extension fractures, pervasive microcracks in garnet, and abundant secondary fluid inclusion planes; all three types of structures are oriented perpendicular to the stretching lineation. Crack spacings in garnet from graphitic samples are tightly clustered around a mean of 180 μm. Non‐graphitic schists have fewer and more randomly oriented microcracks and fluid inclusion planes and maintained strain compatibility via crystal plasticity. The presence or absence of graphite appears to have exerted a fundamental control on rheology during unroofing. Calculations for a model graphitic rock at 500 °C and fO2 = 10−24 MPa show that the equilibrium metamorphic fluid evolves from XCO2 = 0.07 to 0.38 during decompression from 700 to 400 MPa, in agreement with microcrack fluid inclusion data that show a change from XCO2 < 0.1 to 0.45 in graphitic samples over the same pressure interval. This compositional shift results in >60% expansion of the pore fluid during decompression. H2O‐rich fluid in non‐graphitic rocks expands <15% over the same pressure interval. The greater pore fluid expansion in low‐permeability graphitic horizons likely promoted tensile failure during unroofing. These results suggest that microcracking should be an inevitable consequence of decompression in many graphitic schists, whereas rocks that lack graphite are less likely to undergo microcracking. Microseismicity is predicted to be more common in graphitic than non‐graphitic rocks during unroofing of mountain belts.
The initiation and development of metamorphic foliation in the Otago Schist, Part 1: competitive oriented growth of white mica
Authors: STALLARD A. , SHELLEY D.
Published: July 2005

The 3D shape, size and orientation data for white mica grains sampled along two transects of increasing metamorphic grade in the Otago Schist, New Zealand, reveal that metamorphic foliation, as defined by mica shape‐preferred orientation (SPO), developed rapidly at sub‐greenschist facies conditions early in the deformation history. The onset of penetrative strain metamorphism is marked by the rapid elimination of poorly oriented large clastic mica in favour of numerous new smaller grains of contrasting composition, higher aspect ratios and a strong preferred orientation. The metamorphic mica is blade shaped with long axes defining the linear aspect of the foliation and intermediate axes a partial girdle about the lineation. Once initiated, foliation progressively intensified by an increase in the aspect ratio, size and alignment of grains, although highest grade samples within the chlorite zone record a decrease in aspect ratio and reduction in SPO strength despite continued increase in grain size. These trends are interpreted in terms of progressive competitive anisotropic growth of blade‐shaped grains so that the fastest growth directions and blade lengths tend to parallel the extension direction during deformation. The competitive nature of mica growth is indicated by the progressive increase in size and resultant decrease in number of metamorphic mica with increasing grade, from c. 1000 relatively small mica grains per square millimetre of thin section at lower grades, to c. 100 relatively large grains per square millimetre in higher grade samples. Reversal of SPO intensity and grain aspect ratio trends in higher grade samples may reflect a reduction in the strain rate or reduction in the deviatoric component of the stress field.
Reaction localization and softening of texturally hardened mylonites in a reactivated fault zone, central Argentina
Authors: WHITMEYER S. J. , WINTSCH R. P.
Published: July 2005

The Tres Arboles ductile fault zone in the Eastern Sierras Pampeanas, central Argentina, experienced multiple ductile deformation and faulting events that involved a variety of textural and reaction hardening and softening processes. Much of the fault zone is characterized by a (D2) ultramylonite, composed of fine‐grained biotite + plagioclase, that lacks a well‐defined preferred orientation. The D2 fabric consists of a strong network of intergrown and interlocking grains that show little textural evidence for dislocation or dissolution creep. These ultramylonites contain gneissic rock fragments and porphyroclasts of plagioclase, sillimanite and garnet inherited from the gneissic and migmatitic protolith (D1) of the hangingwall. The assemblage of garnet + sillimanite + biotite suggests that D1‐related fabrics developed under upper amphibolite facies conditions, and the persistence of biotite + garnet + sillimanite + plagioclase suggests that the ultramylonite of D2 developed under middle amphibolite facies conditions. Greenschist facies, mylonitic shear bands (D3) locally overprint D2 ultramylonites. Fine‐grained folia of muscovite + chlorite ± biotite truncate earlier biotite + plagioclase textures, and coarser‐grained muscovite partially replaces relic sillimanite grains. Anorthite content of shear band (D3) plagioclase is c. An30, distinct from D1 and D2 plagioclase (c. An35). The anorthite content of D3 plagioclase is consistent with a pervasive grain boundary fluid that facilitated partial replacement of plagioclase by muscovite. Biotite is partially replaced by muscovite and/or chlorite, particularly in areas of inferred high strain. Quartz precipitated in porphyroclast pressure shadows and ribbons that help define the mylonitic fabric. All D3 reactions require the introduction of H+ and/or H2O, indicating an open system, and typically result in a volume decrease. Syntectonic D3 muscovite + quartz + chlorite preferentially grew in an orientation favourable for strain localization, which produced a strong textural softening. Strain localization occurred only where reactions progressed with the infiltration of aqueous fluids, on a scale of hundreds of micrometre. Local fracturing and microseismicity may have induced reactivation of the fault zone and the initial introduction of fluids. However, the predominant greenschist facies deformation (D3) along discrete shear bands was primarily a consequence of the localization of replacement reactions in a partially open system.
Apparent oxygen isotope equilibrium during progressive foliation development and porphyroblast growth in metapelites: implications for stable isotope and conventional thermometry
Authors: BERG C. A. , MOECHER D. P.
Published: July 2005

The assumption of oxygen isotope and major element equilibrium during prograde metamorphism was tested using staurolite‐grade pelitic schists that have undergone sequential porphyroblast growth and multiple episodes of recrystallization of matrix minerals and foliation development. Textural relationships are used to infer a metamorphic history that involves garnet growth followed by staurolite growth, with each porphyroblast growth event followed by at least one period of recrystallization of matrix minerals. Conventional geothermobarometry using Qtz–Grt–Pl–Ms–Bt ± St equilibria yields peak P–T conditions of c. 625 °C at 9–11 kbar, consistent with KMnFMASH petrogenetic grid predictions for stability of the assemblage Grt + St + Bt. Qtz–Grt oxygen isotope fractionations yield apparent temperatures of c. 590 °C and Qtz–St fractionations yield an apparent temperature of c. 595 °C. Diffusional modelling indicates that quartz isotopic compositions were reset by c. 30 °C via retrograde isotopic diffusional exchange with micas. The isotopic temperatures appear to be in excellent agreement with one another, and suggest oxygen isotope equilibrium was attained between garnet and staurolite at c. 625 °C. However, the agreement of Qtz–Grt and Qtz–Str isotopic temperatures is not consistent with petrographic observations (garnet grew before staurolite) and petrogenetic grid constraints that predict that garnet grows over a temperature interval of c. 525–550 °C. Given that: (i) oxygen diffusion rates in staurolite and garnet are slow enough to render an individual porphyroblast effectively closed to exchange after it forms; and (ii) matrix minerals are able to exchange isotopes via recrystallization during each period of deformation; garnet and staurolite could not have simultaneously achieved oxygen isotope equilibrium with each other or with minerals in the recrystallized matrix. Thus, the Qtz–Grt fractionations, which yield apparent temperatures that are in apparent agreement with peak metamorphic temperature and apparent temperatures for Qtz–St fractionations, cannot be fractionations resulting from equilibrium isotopic exchange. Instead, they are apparent fractionations between porphyroblasts formed at different temperature and times in the prograde P–T–D path, and quartz that recrystallized and exchanged with micas and plagioclase during several phases of deformation.
The initiation and development of metamorphic foliation in the Otago Schist, Part 2: evidence from quartz grain‐shape data
Authors: STALLARD A. , SHELLEY D. , REDDY S.
Published: July 2005

Shape, size and orientation measurements of quartz grains sampled along two transects that cross zones of increasing metamorphic grade in the Otago Schist, New Zealand, reveal the role of quartz in the progressive development of metamorphic foliation. Sedimentary compaction and diagenesis contributed little to the formation of a shape‐preferred orientation (SPO) within the analysed samples. Metamorphic foliation was initiated at sub‐greenschist facies conditions as part of a composite S1‐bedding structure parallel to the axial planes of tight to isoclinal F1 folds. An important component of this foliation is a pronounced quartz SPO that formed dominantly by the effect of dissolution–precipitation creep on detrital grains in association with F1 strain. With increasing grade, the following trends are evident from the SPO data: (i) a progressive increase in the aspect ratio of grains in sections parallel to lineation, and the development of blade‐shaped grains; (ii) the early development of a strong shape preferred orientation so that blade lengths define the linear aspect of the foliation (lineation) and the intermediate axes of the blades define a partial girdle about the lineation; (iii) a slight thinning and reduction in volume of grains in the one transect; and (iv) an actual increase in thickness and volume in the survivor grains of the second transect. The highest‐grade samples, within the chlorite zone of the greenschist facies, record segregation into quartz‐ and mica‐rich layers. This segregation resulted largely from F2 crenulation and marks a key change in the distribution, deformation and SPO of the quartz grains. The contribution of quartz SPO to defining the foliation lessens as the previously discrete and aligned detrital quartz grains are replaced by aggregates and layers of dynamically recrystallized quartz grains of reduced aspect ratio and reduced alignment. Pressure solution now affects the margins of quartz‐rich layers rather than individual grains. In higher‐grade samples, therefore, the rock structure is characterized increasingly by segregation layering parallel to a foliation defined predominantly by mica SPO.
Goat meat acceptance in Japan: Current situation and future prospects
Authors: OZAWA Takeyuki , NISHITANI Jiro , ODAKE Sachiko , LOPEZ‐VILLALOBOS Nicolas , BLAIR Hugh T.
Published: July 2005

Three surveys and a sensory evaluation of goat meat were conducted in Japan to examine the current needs and future possibilities of goat meat consumption. The experimental results of the present study lead us to conclude the following: (i) improving the smell of goat meat and combining the sale of goat meat with recipes may increase goat meat demand among housewives; (ii) it seems to be difficult to disseminate Okinawa goat cuisine to non‐Okinawa residents because of the typical odor of goat meat, which is unlikely to be preferred by the public; (iii) the “chewiness” of goat meat is rated highly by young participants according to a sensory evaluation, and loin meat is rated highly compared with hind leg meat; and (iv) there is a rapidly increasing interest and a tremendous purchasing drive towards goat meat among university students. However, these facts call for further investigation of the goat meat demand in Japan. The following three further experiments are needed to solve this issue: (i) breeding to improve the taste of goat meat; (ii) expanding the marketing of goat meat combined with the invention of Japanese‐style goat recipes and tie‐in sales supermarkets; and (iii) implementing further sensory analyses to compare goat meat with other meat and carrying out market analysis in Japan.
Morphometric and histochemical study of involution in the rat uterus after parturition
Authors: ELKHALIL Ayat Omer , MAEJIMA Yuko , AOYAMA Masato , TANAKA Hideyuki , SUGITA Shoei
Published: July 2005

Morphological changes to and collagen loss from the rat uterus during postpartum involution were investigated. The expression patterns of collagen type III and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were also determined. Morphological changes were studied on days 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 22 and 25 postpartum. As a control, diestrus rats’ uterine were used. Specimens from the uterine horn were embedded in paraffin, cut into 8 µm coronal sections, and stained with hematoxylin‐eosin. The thickness of the longitudinal and circular smooth muscle layers and of the endometrium were measured. The collagen content was determined using hydroxyproline analysis. Immunostaining was used to examine the expression of collagen type III on days 1, 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20 postpartum; and MPO on days 1, 3, 5, 10 and 22 postpartum. The thickness of the smooth muscle layers was found to decrease rapidly postpartum: the circular smooth muscle layer returned to that of a non‐pregnant, control uterus by day 5 postpartum and the longitudinal smooth muscle layer by day 15 postpartum. Eosinophilic cells were observed in the endometrial stroma adjacent to the myometrium on days 10, 15 and 20 postpartum, and were confirmed as collagenous cells. Immunostaining identified collagen type III positive cells in the vessel‐rich layer adjacent to the placental site on days 1, 3, 5 and 10 postpartum, and these cells were confirmed to be phagocytic. Postpartum reduction in the weight of the uterus was accompanied by decreases in both the collagen content and the thickness of the longitudinal and circular smooth muscle layers. Furthermore, the phagocytic cells were shown to express MPO during postpartum involution of the uterus.
Expression of mRNA for sodium‐glucose transporter 1 and fatty acid translocase in the ruminant gastrointestinal tract before and after weaning
Authors: HAYASHI Hideaki , YONEZAWA Tomo , KANETANI Takeshi , TERADA Fuminori , KATOH Kazuo , OBARA Yoshiaki
Published: July 2005

The mRNA expression of sodium‐glucose transporter 1 (SGLT1) and fatty acid translocase (CD36) in the gastrointestinal tract of Holstein cattle and Saanen goats before and after weaning was investigated. Before weaning, the expression of both SGLT1 and CD36 was highest in the jejunum, relative to the other parts of the gastrointestinal tract in both species. The expression of SGLT1 and CD36 in the duodenum was second highest in the goats. After weaning, SGLT1 and CD36 expression in the small intestine significantly decreased in both species. The expression of both types of transporters was also detected in the forestomach. From these results, it was concluded that the jejunum is probably the major absorption site for glucose and long‐chain fatty acids before weaning, and that the expression of both types of transporters decreases after weaning in cattle and goats.
Ability to utilize lactate and related enzymes of a ruminal bacterium, Selenomonas ruminantium
Authors: ASANUMA Narito , HINO Tsuneo
Published: July 2005

The ability of a nitrate‐reducing and nitrite‐reducing strain of Selenomonas ruminantium ssp. lactilytica (TH1) to utilize lactate was examined at the cell and enzyme levels. The TH1 strain was found to possess NAD‐independent D‐lactate dehydrogenase (iD‐LDH), with little or no lactate racemase or L‐lactate dehydrogenase, implying that TH1 virtually utilizes only the D‐form of lactate. Therefore, the introduction of lactate racemase to TH1 may enhance its ability to utilize lactate in the rumen where both D‐lactate and L‐lactate are produced. Because lactate utilization by Megasphaera elsdenii in the rumen may increase methanogenesis, it is desirable to increase lactate utilization by S. ruminantium, which may decrease methanogenesis. However, the specific activity of iD‐LDH, which represents the amount of enzyme per cell, in TH1 was approximately threefold lower than M. elsdenii. Properties of iD‐LDH, such as optimal pH and temperature, affinity for D‐lactate, and effect of metal ions, did not differ greatly between TH1 and M. elsdenii. The specific activity of iD‐LDH in TH1 increased as the D‐lactate concentration in the medium increased, suggesting that iD‐LDH synthesis is regulated in response to D‐lactate. On the contrary, no iD‐LDH activity was detected when TH1 was grown in the presence of glucose, even when D‐lactate was present. This result suggests that iD‐LDH synthesis is strongly suppressed by glucose. In order to improve the ability of S. ruminantium to utilize lactate and reduce nitrate and nitrite, it is important to enhance iD‐LDH synthesis in addition to the introduction of lactate racemase.
Effect of crushing unhulled rice and the addition of fermented juice of epiphytic lactic acid bacteria on the fermentation quality of whole crop rice silage, and its digestibility and rumen fermentation status in sheep
Authors: TAKAHASHI Toshiyoshi , HORIGUCHI Ken‐ichi , GOTO Masakazu
Published: July 2005

This experiment was carried out to examine the effect of crushing unhulled rice and the addition of fermented juice of epiphytic lactic acid bacteria (FJLB) on the fermentation quality of whole crop rice silage, and its digestibility and rumen fermentation in sheep. After whole rice plants (Oryza sativa L. cv. Haenuki) were harvested between the yellow and full‐ripened period of maturity, and cut at a length of 2 cm, four silage treatments were set: (i) non‐treatment; (ii) crushing treatment of unhulled rice division (crushing); (iii) addition of 1% FJLB; and (iv) crushing + addition of 1% FJLB. Lactic acid content increased with the addition of FJLB, and was highest in the crushing + FJLB treatment. Digestibilities of crude fiber, acid detergent fiber and neutral detergent fiber were significantly higher during the crushing + FJLB treatment. There were no differences among treatments in the volatile fatty acid concentrations before and after feeding. At 4 h after feeding, however, the ratio of acetic acid : propionic acid was significantly lower with the addition of FJLB. It was proven that the fermented quality of silage was improved when FJLB was added to rice plants and then ensilaged, and the digestibility of the fibrous component was raised when unhulled rice division was crushed and FJLB was supplemented.