bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of morphodynamic state on macrofauna community of exposed sandy beaches on Galician coast (NW Spain)
Authors: De La Huz Rosario , Lastra Mariano
Published: June 2008

It is known that the fauna of the exposed sandy beaches are primarily controlled by physical variables; but how these variables operate along and across the beach still remains fairly under discussion. In our study, we sampled a range of exposed sandy beaches along the Northwest coast of Spain to determine the relationship between the principal physical variables of the beaches (including beach morphodynamic state), and the macrofaunal community. The fauna of these beaches comprise truly marine species along the intertidal zone as well as semi‐terrestrial species in the upper and supratidal environments. These two groups respond in a different manner to the physical environment. The first group is directly controlled by the morphodynamic state of the beach, and variations in the physical environment; the second group is not clearly affected by these physical conditions. In this case, other variables such as food availability and the human uses of the upper limits of the beach seem to be more relevant in explaining the patterns observed in the macrofaunal community.
The Belgian sandy beach ecosystem: a review
Authors: Speybroeck Jeroen , Bonte Dries , Courtens Wouter , Gheskiere Tom , Grootaert Patrick , Maelfait Jean‐Pierre , Provoost Sam , Sabbe Koen , Stienen Eric W. M. , Van Lancker Vera , Van Landuyt Wouter , Vincx Magda , Degraer Steven
Published: June 2008

This paper reviews the available knowledge on sedimentology, hydrodynamics and five major ecosystem components (microphytobenthos, vascular plants, terrestrial arthropods, zoobenthos, and avifauna) of Belgian sandy beaches. It covers the area from the foredunes to the lower foreshore, takes an ecosystem approach to beaches of this specific geographic area. Morphodynamically, Belgian beaches are (ultra‐)dissipative, macrotidal, and wide. Characteristic grain sizes are 160–380 μm. The sand becomes coarser, beach slopes steeper and tidal range smaller towards the south‐west, where beaches have also been frequently reshaped by human interference such as nourishment. Beach organisms are highly adapted to this unique environment and can reach high numbers. We show that even on a heavily populated coastline subjected to intense recreational and development pressure, beaches provide critical, yet threatened, habitats. Vascular plants growing near the drift line, on the dry beach and in the embryonic dunes are mostly short‐lived and thalassochorous; the most common species include sea rocket (Cakile maritima), prickly saltwort (Salsola kalisubsp.kali), and sea sandwort (Honckenya peploides). These zones are habitat to a highly diverse suite of terrestrial arthropods of halobiontic, halophilous and haloxene species; prominent members are sandhoppers (Talitrus saltator) and dipterans (flies). Microphytobenthos, mainly diatoms, is an important primary producer on Belgian beaches but is not well known. The meio‐ and macrobenthos of Belgian beaches contains specific assemblages such as theScolelepis squamata–Eurydice pulchracommunity of the upper intertidal zone. Birds no longer nest on the beaches itself, but Belgian sandy shores continue to function as important resting and foraging areas for birds such as the sanderlingCalidris alba. We identify several human pressures on the beach ecosystems arising from recreation, beach management and fisheries.
Kema terrane: A fragment of a back‐arc basin of the early Cretaceous Moneron–Samarga island‐arc system, East Sikhote–Alin range, Russian Far East
Authors: Malinovsky Alexander I. , Golozoubov Vladimir V. , Simanenko Vladimir P. , Simanenko Ludmila F.
Published: June 2008

Abstract  The Kema terrane is a suite of Barremian(?)–Aptian to Albian volcano‐sedimentary rocks of Sikhote–Alin that are interpreted as deposits of the back‐arc basin of the Moneron–Samarga island‐arc system. Compositional features of the different‐type deposits indicate a near‐slope depositional environment influenced by volcanic processes. Studies of slump fold orientation testify to the accumulation of material from southeast to northwest by gravitational sliding. Compositional characteristics of terrigenous rocks suggest the major provenance for detrital material was an ensialic volcanic island arc. Petrochemical characteristics of basaltic rocks indicate that the formations studied were confined to the back part of the arc.
Underplating of mélange evidenced by the depositional ages: U–Pb dating of zircons from the Shimanto accretionary complex, southwest Japan
Authors: Shibata Tadahiro , Orihashi Yuji , Kimura Gaku , Hashimoto Yoshitaka
Published: June 2008

Abstract  Growth of an accretionary prism is effected by frontal accretion and deep subsurface underplating at the base of the prism. A systematic oceanward and structurally downward younging of underplated sequences is expected as the prism thickens and grows. To test this hypothesis and explore the processes of underplating, the U–Pb ages of zircon grains contained in underplated mélange sequences or packages of the Late Cretaceous and early Paleogene accretionary complex of the Shimanto Belt, southwest Japan, were determined using LA–ICP–MS laser technology. The results document systematic but intermittent younging ages within a single underplated mélange package. This finding suggests that underplating took place episodically during a period of several million years and that between episodes of underplating, a large amount of sediment was subducted to depths much greater than where underplating was occurring.
Geochemistry of I‐type granitoids in the Karaburun Peninsula, West Turkey: Evidence for Triassic continental arc magmatism following closure of the Palaeotethys
Authors: Erkül Sİbel Tatar , Sözbİlİr Hasan , Erkül Fuat , Helvaci Cahİt , Ersoy Yalçin , Sümer ÖKmen
Published: June 2008

Abstract  Triassic granitoids related to Palaeo‐ and Neo‐Tethyan events occur widely in the metamorphic terranes largely affected by the Alpine orogeny. A first recorded unmetamorphosed plutonic body intruded into the Palaeotethyan mélange in western Turkey, called the Karaburun granodiorite, is composed of two small intrusive stocks that were emplaced between 240 and 220 Ma. It is compositionally diverse, ranging from granodiorite and tonalite to diorite. These rocks show heterogeneous compositions with 54 to 65 wt % SiO2 and are calc‐alkaline in character. They are also subalkaline with molar ratios of Al2O3/(Na2O + K2O) from 0.74 to 1.00 and are metaluminous. Most samples are diopside‐normative (0.36–8.64), with Na2O > K2O. Chondrite normalized rare earth element (REE) patterns show various degrees of light REE (LREE) enrichment, with LaN = 57.79 to 99.59 and (La/Yb)N = 5.98–7.85 and Eu negative anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.62–0.86). These rocks have coherent patterns in ocean ridge granite (ORG) normalized trace‐element plots, marked by variable enrichment in K, Rb, Ba, Th, Ce and depletion in Ta and Nb, similar to I‐type granites from subduction zones. In primitive mantle‐normalized multi element variation diagrams, the granodiorites show pronounced depletions in the high‐field‐strength elements (HFSE; Nb, Ta, Zr), Sr, P, and Ti. Trace‐element modeling of the Karaburun granodiorite suggests an origin through partial melting of the subduction‐modified mantle wedge with minor contribution of crustal components through a process of strong fractional crystallization (FC) combined with slight assimilation‐fractional crystallization (AFC). Exposures of typical continental‐arc granodiorites in the Karaburun Mélange support the validity of the subduction‐accretion model that implies the presence of an active continental margin following closure of the Palaeotethyan Ocean during the Triassic.
Predictors of surgical site infection in dirty urological surgery
Authors: Stojadinovic Miroslav M , Mićić Sava R , Milovanović Dragan R
Published: June 2008

Objectives:  Risk factors for surgical site infection (SSI) following urologic dirty operations have not been clearly identified. This study was conducted to describe incidence, potential risk factors and common causative pathogens of the SSI in such operations.

Methods:  Medical records of patients who had undergone simple nephrectomy or lumbotomy for suppurative renal infection at our institutions from 1999 to 2006 were retrospectively evaluated. The following data were retrieved: presence of SSI, demographic data, laboratory findings, comorbidities, microbiological data, type of renal suppuration, type of urological surgery and antibiotic regimen. Risk factors for SSI were evaluated using the multiple logistic regression model.

Results:  Sixty‐five patients (mean age 55.6 ± 13.1 years) were eligible for data analysis. In 20 of them (30.8%) a SSI was identified. The most common isolated pathogens were gram‐negative bacteria. At univariate logistic regression analysis risk factors significantly associated with SSI included: presence of emphysematous infection, hypoalbuminemia, number of predisposing conditions, emergency operations, isolation of Enterobacteriaceae, positive pus culture. The use of trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole was associated with a decreased risk for SSI. Multiple logistic model identified only the emergency operations and isolated Enterobacteriaceae as independent predictors of SSI (odds ratio [OR] = 11.1) (95% confidence interval [CI] = 3.0–40.8) and OR = 3.9 (1.0–14.8), respectively.

Conclusions:  Patients with suppurative renal infections are submitted to life‐saving emergency surgery. Urological surgeons should keep in mind that this carries a high risk for subsequent SSI. Effective preventive measures in these circumstance cannot be identified. Further research in this area is necessary to clarify this issue.
‘Locals within locals’: Cultural sensitivity in disaster aid
Authors: Wilder Andrew , Morris Tim
Published: June 2008

The massive influx of Pakistani and international aid workers into conservative areas of northern Pakistan and Kashmir following the devastating earthquake of October 2005 raised challenging issues around cultural sensitivity. This editorial describes the outcome of research conducted by the Feinstein International Center 18 months after the disaster, and highlights the dilemmas confronting organizations committed to the often divergent ideals of respecting local cultures, protecting the rights of staff and promoting gender equality. Reconciling the differing standards that local communities applied to national and international workers, and to male and female staff, proved difficult. Often it was the behaviour of national staff that was perceived by locals as most insensitive, highlighting the need for cultural sensitivity training to extend beyond expatriates. The simplistic and dichotomous language about ‘nationals’ and ‘internationals’ or ‘locals’ and ‘foreigners’ used by the UN and international NGOs masked the diversity of cultural norms within Pakistan and Kashmir.
Meat in the genes
Authors: Peace Adrian
Published: June 2008

At a time when it is all the more necessary to reduce levels of meat production in order to restrict greenhouse‐gas emissions from the livestock industry, the combined insights of neo‐evolutionary thinking and cultural anthropology have been drawn upon in a major marketing campaign in Australia to significantly increase levels of meat eating.
Performance measurement and metric manipulation in the public sector
Authors: Fisher Colin , Downes Bernadette
Published: June 2008

This paper explores the circumstances that influence whether managers in the public services manipulate the measurement information that is used to assess performance; and if they do, what level of deception they might use. The realistic evaluation approach is adopted. A Delphi survey and the collection of critical incidents through interviews are used to identify possible configurations of contexts–mechanisms–outcomes that provide possible explanations of information manipulation. A number of these configurations are discussed. In a later stage of the project these configurations will be further tested through another Delphi survey, with the intention of developing proposals for improved governance of performance measurement systems in the public services.
Knowledge, Power and Sustainability in Contemporary Rural Europe
Authors: Csurgó Bernadett , Kovách Imre , Kučerová Eva
Published: June 2008

This article looks at the evidence employed in the CORASON (the cognitive approach to rural sustainable development: the dynamics of expert and lay knowledge) research project of changing rural power relations in the context of sustainability and knowledge use in Europe. It explores what kinds of knowledge contribute to sustainable development in rural development projects and how they are created or empowered, according to the interest and capacity of the different actors involved. The article examines how actors interpret and negotiate the requirement of sustainability. It discusses how the idea and practice of sustainable development can build on local knowledge as a resource for generating activity and for commoditising local goods and service, looking at the potentials of sustainability projects for future rural development, the types of knowledge used in projects and their social sources, dynamics and social availability. It reviews the proliferating project form of management that locks actors into power relations connected to their capacity for knowledge use and discusses the pressure of urban demands on rural sustainability in the context of local autonomy. These issues are elaborated through a study of the interconnection of knowledge and power and the role of the actors in the creating and using knowledge. On the level of public policy, the authors identify the knowledge–power complex as an important factor of decision‐making in rural policy and develop a critique of rural policy for its inadequate attention to the interconnection between knowledge, power and interest.
Knowledge, Food and Place. A Way of Producing, a Way of Knowing
Authors: Fonte Maria
Published: June 2008

This article examines the dynamics of knowledge in the valorisation of local food, drawing on the results from the CORASON project (A ‘cognitive approach to rural sustainable development the dynamics of expert and lay knowledge’). It is based on the analysis of several in‐depth case studies on food relocalisation carried out in 10 European countries (Ireland, Scotland, Sweden, Germany, Norway, Poland, Italy, Portugal, Spain and Greece). In the different fields of rural studies (rural sociology, geography, anthropology) there is currently a wide debate about the relocalisation of food production and consumption. Born out of a critique of the ‘conventionalisation’ of organic agriculture, attention to local food has grown in recent years to assume the features of a new orthodoxy or paradigm that is now undergoing, as is suitable to any orthodoxy, deep and critical scrutiny. Many points are discussed, from the definition of ‘local’ to its transformative role in the current agri‐food system and rural community, whether relocalisation of food is a sustainable strategy and whether its character is radical or merely reformist. The perspective adopted here, which is relatively neglected in the literature, derives from the overall focus of CORASON on the role of knowledge in rural development. We look at the valorisation of local food as a knowledge‐based practice that mobilises the various forms of knowledge embodied in both rural and non‐rural actors. Following knowledge in the valorisation of food leads us to differentiate between patterns of food relocalisation across Europe and to analyse the interplay among knowledge forms and actors in the contested construction of the local food project.
LEADER and Innovation
Authors: Dargan Lorna , Shucksmith Mark
Published: June 2008

Innovation is widely held to be a key driver of economic growth at the heart of the knowledge economy, although the social and cultural dimensions of innovation are often neglected. Thus, innovation policies are frequently regarded as central to improving a region's competitiveness, but what does this mean in rural contexts and how is this concept understood and negotiated by different actors? This article takes as a point of departure the literature on innovation in urban systems, innovative milieux and ‘learning regions’, and then examines uses of the concept in the LEADER initiative – originally intended to develop innovative approaches to rural development – in 10 countries and at various scales from the EU and nation to the local. Consideration is also given to the forms of knowledge associated with innovation processes.
Knowledge in Sustainable Rural Development: From Forms of Knowledge to Knowledge Processes
Authors: Bruckmeier Karl , Tovey Hilary
Published: June 2008

Lack of data or empirical information, insecurity about scientific knowledge, and disputes on how to manage knowledge emerge as central concerns when we study changes in rural development under the influence of sustainability discourses. In this synthesis we summarise and interpret results from the CORASON project for sustainable resource management, both within policy discourses and the local realities of rural development projects. We identify a range of operational variants for sustainable development in these projects. The understanding of sustainable development found in rural development practice is more diverse and pluralistic and less standardised than in the policy programmes that guide it, and practitioners are also critical of some premises of these programmes. From the knowledge forms and ideas entering rural development practices emerges a model of sustainable rural development that is less hierarchical and hegemonic than those in policy programmes and comes more from the target groups, beneficiaries and local populations than the actors in the policy process and scientific discourses. It requires more in‐depth study of knowledge interaction in resource management. To describe the emerging ideas of knowledge practices we use the concepts of situated and relational knowledge, formulated in recent epistemological studies but not yet systematically introduced in the analysis of rural development processes.
Knowledge Dynamics and Sustainability in Rural Livelihood Strategies: Two Case Studies from Hungary
Authors: Kelemen Eszter , Megyesi Boldizsár , Kalamász Ildikó Nagy
Published: June 2008

Sustainability, knowledge forms and rural development are the core concepts combined in this study to explore how different forms of knowledge manifest themselves in rural development and how their dynamics can contribute to rural sustainability. Based on a qualitative research process, we compare two individual livelihood strategies from rural Hungary, the case of a family farmer and a potter. We argue that scientific, local and managerial knowledge forms cannot be identified in pure forms in Hungarian rural initiatives. In the absence of a strong networking capacity, rural entrepreneurs replace knowledge‐sharing and community‐learning processes with individual knowledge‐gathering strategies. As a consequence, person‐bound, multifaceted knowledge sets are used in rural initiatives and are produced according to context; however, the absence of knowledge dynamics hinders actors in developing sustainable solutions. Thus, rural development policy should encourage interaction among different rural actors instead of aiming at providing better education for managerial knowledge.
Japanese encephalitis virus infects neural progenitor cells and decreases their proliferation
Authors: Das Sulagna , Basu Anirban
Published: June 2008

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a common cause of encephalitis in humans, especially in children, leads to substantial neuronal injury. The survivors of JEV infection have severe cognitive impairment, motor and behavioral disorders. We hypothesize that depletion of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) by the virus culminates in neurological sequelae in survivors of Japanese encephalitis (JE). We utilized both in vivo model of JEV infection and in vitro neurosphere cultures to study progressive JEV infection. Cellular infection and cell death was determined by flow cytometry. BrdU administration in animals and in neurospheres was used to determine the proliferative ability of NPCs. JEV leads to massive loss of actively proliferating NPC population from the subventricular zone (SVZ). The ability of JEV infected subventricular zone cells to form neurospheres is severely compromised. This can be attributed to JEV infection in NPCs, which however do not result in robust death of the resilient NPC cells. Instead, JEV suppresses the cycling ability of these cells, preventing their proliferation. JEV primarily targets at a critical postnatal age and severely diminishes the NPC pool in SVZ, thus impairing the process of recovery after the insult. This arrested growth and proliferation of NPCs might have an effect on the neurological consequences in JE survivors.
Searching for the Smoking Gun: Did Trade Hurt Unskilled Workers?*
Authors: WINCHESTER NIVEN
Published: June 2008

We conduct an economy‐wide analysis of the association between trade and wages in New Zealand and decompose the influence of imports on relative wages by sector and region. We find that increased imports resulted in a small increase in wage inequality but this rise was offset by downward pressure on the skill premium due to increased exports. In aggregate, we observe that increased openness (rising imports and exports) decreased New Zealand wage inequality. We also find that imports from developed nations resulted in a greater increase in the New Zealand skill premium than imports from developing nations.
How Much do Public Schools Really Cost? Estimating the Relationship between House Prices and School Quality*
Authors: DAVIDOFF IAN , LEIGH ANDREW
Published: June 2008

This paper investigates the relationship between housing prices and the quality of public schools in the Australian Capital Territory. To disentangle the effects of schools and other neighbourhood characteristics on the value of residential properties, we compare sale prices of homes on either side of high school attendance boundaries. We find that a 5 percentage point increase in test scores (approximately 1 SD) is associated with a 3.5 per cent increase in house prices. Our result is in line with private school tuition costs, and accords with prior research from the UK and the USA. Estimating the effect of school quality on house prices provides a possible measure of the extent to which parents value better educational outcomes.
Does Country Risk Influence International Tourism? A Dynamic Panel Data Analysis*
Authors: SEQUEIRA TIAGO NEVES , NUNES PAULO MAÇÃS
Published: June 2008

International tourism determinants have been studied in recent research, and focus has been given to estimation of demand equations. Country risk has been somewhat neglected in the analysis. Given adequate controls for price and income, we show that country risk is a robust and significant determinant of tourism specialisation of countries: a 1 per cent increase in country risk causes a 0.2 per cent fall in tourism specialisation. Policy‐makers should be aware of the negative effect country risk has in tourism, as this is seen as one of the most promising sectors for development.
The Accuracy and Rationality of US and Australian Household Inflation Forecasts: A Comparative Study of the Michigan and Melbourne Institute Surveys*
Authors: THOMAS LLOYD B. , GRANT ALAN P.
Published: June 2008

Median household 1‐year‐ahead consumer price inflation forecasts generated by the Michigan survey of US households and the Melbourne Institute survey of Australian households are tested for accuracy, bias and efficiency, and compared with naïve forecasts, forecasts derived from financial market phenomena, and forecasts of professional economists. In the post‐1993:1 period which encompasses the Melbourne Institute's 2006 revision of the Australian series, both countries’ household forecasts are unbiased, efficient and relatively accurate. In the earlier period (1978:1–1993:1), the Melbourne series exhibits substantial upward bias. Several potential explanations for the inferior early Melbourne performance are offered.
Distinguished Fellow of the Economic Society of Australia, 2007: Yew‐Kwang Ng
Authors: CORDEN W. MAX , FORSYTH PETER , TOMBAZOS CHRISTIS G.
Published: June 2008

This article surveys the work of Yew‐Kwang Ng who, in 2007, was elected Distinguished Fellow of the Economic Society of Australia. Emphasis is given to the distinctive, wide ranging and original aspects of his work.
Agro‐industrial conventions: some evidence from northern California's wine industry
Authors: GUTHEY GREIG TOR
Published: June 2008

Research into learning, innovation, and clustering suggests that local socioeconomic practices, or conventions, are critical to economic growth and regional development. Yet when it comes to the wine industry, explanations of economic success often focus on natural advantages. This article seeks to address this issue, presenting findings on the local practices of wine producers in northern California. The argument is that there are important local social and industrial linkages that bolster the competitiveness of California's wine industry and serve to upgrade production practices. This article highlights the career histories and perceptions of several key informants who are offered as exemplars of more commonly shared industrial experience and practice.
Can Additional Patient Experience Items Improve the Reliability of and Add New Domains to the CAHPS® Hospital Survey?
Authors: Rothman Arlyss Anderson , Park Hayoung , Hays Ron D. , Edwards Carol , Dudley R.Adams
Published: June 2008

Context. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will introduce the reporting of patient surveys in 2008. The Consumer Assessment of Health Care Providers and Systems (CAHPS®) Hospital Survey contains 18 questions about hospital care. Internal consistency reliability of the discharge information scale is relatively low and some important domains of care are not represented.

Objective. To determine whether adding questions increases the reliability and validity of the survey.

Data Sources and Study Setting. Surveys of patients at 181 hospitals participating in the California Hospitals Assessment and Reporting Taskforce (CHART), an initiative for voluntary public reporting of hospital performance in California.

Study Design. CHART added nine questions to the CAHPS Hospital Survey; two to improve reliability of the discharge information domain, five to create a coordination of care domain, and two relating to interpreter services.

Data Collection. Surveys were sent to randomly selected patients from each CHART hospital.

Principal Findings. A total of 40,172 surveys were included. Adding the new discharge information questions improved the internal consistency reliability from 0.45 to 0.72 and the hospital‐level reliability from 0.75 to 0.81. New coordination of care composites had good internal consistency reliabilities ranging from 0.58 to 0.70 and hospital‐level reliabilities ranging from 0.84 to 0.87. The new coordination of care composites were more closely correlated with overall hospital ratings and willingness to recommend than six of the seven original domains.

Conclusions. The additional discharge information questions and the new coordination of care questions significantly improved the psychometric properties of the CAHPS Hospital Survey.
Dosage Patterns in Methadone Treatment: Results from a National Survey, 1988–2005
Authors: Pollack Harold A. , D'Aunno Thomas
Published: June 2008

Objective. To examine the extent to which U.S. methadone maintenance facilities meet established standards for minimum dosages, 1988–2005.

Data Source. Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of outpatient treatment facilities in 1988 (n=172), 1990 (n=140), 1995 (n=116), 2000 (n=150), and 2005 (n=146).

Study Design. Random‐effects multiple regression analysis was used to examine unit characteristics associated with below recommended doses.

Data Collection. Data regarding the proportion of patients who received maintenance dosages of <40, 60, and 80 mg/day were collected from unit directors and clinical supervisors.

Principal Findings. Forty‐four percent of patients receive doses of at least 80 mg/day—the threshold identified as recommended practice in recent work. Thirty‐four percent of patients receive doses below 60 mg/day, while 17 percent receive doses below 40 mg/day. Units that serve a high proportion of African American or Latino clients were more likely to report low‐dose care. Units managed by individuals who strongly favor abstinence models (e.g., Narcotics Anonymous) were more likely to provide low‐dose care.

Conclusions. One‐third of methadone facilities provide doses below recommended levels. Managerial attitudes about abstinence and their relationship to low doses underscore the contested role of methadone in treatment of opiate disorders.
Phospholipase stimulates lipogenesis in SZ95 sebocytes
Authors: Schagen S. , Perchuc A. M. , Voegeli R. , Imfeld D. , Schreier T. , Zouboulis C. C.
Published: June 2008

Introduction:  With progressing ageing human sebocytes reduce lipid production. However, the influence of certain aging mechanisms on sebaceous lipid synthesis as well as ways to influence the latter is not fully identified. Certain lipids act as ligands of nuclear receptors such as PPAR. Phospholipase (PLA2) catalyzes the hydrolysis of the sn‐2 fatty acyl bond of phospholipids to yield free fatty acid and lysophospholipid. It has been hypothesized that PPAR may be activated by hydrolysis products of phospholipids and also by eicosanoids obtained through PLA2 activity.

Materials and Methods:  A method to quantify sebaceous lipid synthesis of SZ95 sebocytes in vitro was established and the cells were treated by snake venom Bothrops moojeni gel filtration fractions (Botmo GF). Botmo GF fractions were further purified by RP‐HPLC, and a fraction with PLA2 activity (Botmo GF11‐117) and a fraction without enzymatic activity (Botmo GF11‐101) were identified and additionally tested.

Results:  Botmo GF fractions increased lipogenesis in SZ95 sebocytes without inducing apparent toxic or apoptotic effects. Botmo GF11‐101 (1 μg/ml) enhanced neutral lipid synthesis by up to 170% and polar lipid synthesis by up to 120%. The enzymatically active PLA2 Botmo GF11‐117 (1 μg/ml) increased synthesis of neutral lipids by up to 200%, and polar lipids by up to 120% compared to untreated SZ95 sebocytes.

Conclusion:  PLA2 activation or suppression could be important for human sebaceous lipogenesis. PLA2 modifiers may be attractive for skin lipid research and pharmacological/cosmetic products.
Truncated peptide derivates of the C‐terminal domain of alpha‐MSH (11–13) – emerging agents for anti‐inflammatory future therapy
Authors: Böhm M. , Mastrofrancesco A. , Stroszek E. , Kokot A. , Zouboulis C. C. , Luger T. A.
Published: June 2008

There is increasing evidence that selected peptide fragments of the neuropeptide alpha‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (alpha‐MSH) have preserved immunomodulatory effects in various in vitro and in vivo models. However, until recently, emphasis has been attributed mostly to peptides related to the central pharmacophore of alpha‐MSH (6–9) as well as to peptides homologous to the C‐terminal tripeptide sequence, MSH (11–13). Here we investigated in detail the in vitro effects of an alpha MSH (11–13) derivative, K(D)PT, in which the last amino acid valine of alpha‐MSH (11–13) was substituted by threonine and by the D‐enantiomer of proline in position 2. Using the immortalized human sebocyte cell line SZ95 as an in vitro model we demonstrate that K(D)PDT has potent antagonistic effects against interleukin (IL)‐induced activation of NF‐kB presumably by inhibiting IkBalpha protein degradation. In contrast IL‐1‐mediated activation of the stress kinase p38 was not affected. The significance of the NF‐kB‐modulatory effect of K(D)PT was highlighted by suppression of IL‐1‐mediated mRNA expression and protein secretion of IL‐6 and IL‐8, two proinflammatory cytokines crucially implicated in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. Interestingly, K(D)PT likewise suppressed P. acnes‐induced expression of IL‐6 and IL‐8. Our in vitro data are promising towards the therapeutic exploitation of small peptide derivatives of the C‐terminal domain of alpha‐MSH, e.g. K(D)PT, not only for the treatment of acne but also for many other inflammatory skin diseases.
Stress protects from allergic sensitisation via Substance‐P modified antigen presentation
Authors: Pavlovic S. , Liezmann C. , Daniltchenko M. , Blois S. M. , Klapp B. F. , Peters E. M. J.
Published: June 2008

Stress is a potent immunomodulator and aggravator of atopic disease. In a combined murine model of atopic like‐allergic dermatitis (AD) and perceived stress (noise) we previously demonstrated that stress increases Substance P (SP) immunoreactive nerve fiber number and subsequent neurogenic inflammation. Stress also induced an altered Th1/Th2 cytokine balance indicating modulation of antigen presentation. To investigate the effect of stress and SP on dendritic cell‐T cell interaction during allergen sensitisation and the subsequent modification of allergic inflammation, we exposed AD mice to stress prior to sensitisation. Stress markedly increased dendritic cell (DC) migration and maturation in a SP dependent manner. Moreover, the effects of stress were selectively abolished when animals were treated with NK1 antagonist. Interestingly, in stressed AD mice, the number of regulatory CD4+CD25+ T cells (Tregs) was increased, while other T cell subsets were decreased. When dendritic cells from stressed AD mice were co‐cultured with T lymphocytes we measured higher medium concentrations of TH1 (IFN? and TNF?) vs. TH2 (IL‐4 and IL‐5) cytokines, as well as higher levels of IL‐2 indicating promotion of ‘anti‐allergic’ TH1 and T regulatory phenotypes. Concordantly with the stress and SP dependent alterations in DC‐T cell interaction disease severity (eosinophilic infiltrates, epidermal thickening) was significantly decreased. This reduction in skin inflammation was abrogated in mice treated with NK1 antagonist. Taken together, our data show that via SP‐dependent mechanisms stress may be involved in the sensitisation of atopic individuals to allergen and thereby determine the course of the disease.
Towards new aspects of melatonin research in dermato‐endocrinology
Authors: Fischer T. W. , Naumann V. , Bodo E. , Paus R.
Published: June 2008

Based on extensive investigation of melatonin in human cell models (keratinocytes, fibroblasts), a great variety of melatonin actions, mechanisms, intracellularly localized synthesis and metabolism as well as receptor expression has been unravelled, identifying melatonin as a key player in cutaneous biology and dermato‐endocrinology. Melatonin was reported to act directly protective as a radical scavenger in many conditions of skin‐related stress (ultraviolet radiation, ionizing radiation, thermal injury, ulcer formation, skin flap necrosis) and to modulate cell growth via membrane (MT1, MT2), cytosolic (MT3/NQO2) and nuclear receptors (RORα). Membrane and nuclear melatonin receptor expression is hair cycle dependent in murine hair follicles, whereas estradiol receptor (ERα) expression is down‐regulated by melatonin. Furthermore, the modulation of secondary endocrine signalling (e.g. prolactin release, estrogen receptor‐mediated signalling) in the skin is mediated by melatonin. Melatonin levels of magnitudes higher than in the plasma have been detected in human keratinocytes and murine and human hair follicles, whereby noradrenalin, the classical stimulator of melatonin synthesis, increased melatonin production in hair follicles. Additionally, a melatoninergic antioxidative system (MAS) of the skin has been identified with UV‐enhanced formation of melatonin metabolites, 2‐OH‐melatonin and AFMK, the latter being a strong antioxidant itself. Alternatively, melatonin indirectly protects cells by up‐regulating gene expression and activity of non‐melatonin autonomous protective systems, the intracellular antioxidative enzyme network which is composed of Mn‐SOD, Cu‐Zn‐SOD, CAT and GPx. To further drive melatonin research towards the human organism level, two human organ culture models have been choosen or newly established i) the human hair organ culture model and ii) the human full thickness skin model, respectively. Two crucial stressors of human skin/hair biology are used to investigate their morphology and functional effect expression in these models: ultraviolet radiation and chemotherapy‐induced cytotoxicity. Standardized stress conditions in both models serve to investigate differential expression of stress levels, their time‐dependent dynamics and effect quality. Finally, reduction of UV‐damaged keratinocytes (sun‐burn cells) by melatonin in the full‐skin organ model and anti‐apoptotic effects in chemotherapy‐induced hair follicle damage have been observed.
Antagonism of the serotonin pathway – a novel antifibrotic approach?
Authors: Kokot A. , Luger T. A. , Fiebich B. , Böhm M.
Published: June 2008

The neurotransmitter serotonin (5‐Hydroxytryptamin, 5‐HT) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of scleroderma and scleroderma‐like skin changes for years. In particular, a role of serotonin has been suggested as an important vasoactive mediator of the Raynaud's phenomenon in patients with systemic sclerosis. Accordingly, anti‐serotoninergic therapies have been utilized clinically to treat Raynaud's phenomenon. There is also recent evidence that multiple cell types of the skin have the capacity to synthesize serotonin. The biological effects of serotonin are mediated by at least 15 different 5‐HT‐receptor subtypes. One of them is the 5‐HT3‐receptor, which binds the 5‐HT‐antagonist tropisetron. Here we investigated the effect of tropisetron on transforming growth factor‐beta1 (TGF‐beta1)‐mediated collagen synthesis in human dermal fibroblasts (HDF) in vitro. In addition, we elucidated the impact of tropisetron on activation of SMAD, a signaling transduction pathway implicated in TGF‐beta1‐mediated collagen synthesis. Tropisetron at non‐cytotoxic doses significantly suppressed TGF‐beta1‐mediated collagen type I (alpha1 and 2) and type III (alpha1) expression at RNA level in HDF as shown by real‐time PCR analysis. This effect of tropisetron was paralleled by reduced amounts of intracellular collagen type I protein as evidenced by Western immunoblotting. In addition, tropisetron significantly decreased secreted procollagen‐I‐C‐peptide as demostrated by ELISA. In contrast, tropisetron alone did not have any detectable effect on collagen expression. Analysing the SMAD pathway we could further show that tropisetron in contrasts to TGF‐beta1 neither affects SMAD3 phosphorylation, nuclear translocation of SMAD2/3 nor SMAD3/4‐dependent promoter activity in HDF. Our results for the first time demonstrate a potent suppressive effect of tropisetron on TGF‐beta1‐induced collagen synthesis in vitro. Regardless of the molecular mechanism of TGF‐beta1 antagonism by tropisetron, these findings should be of special relevance towards the exploitation of tropisetron and related agents as a novel treatment for patients with fibrotic diseases.
Cross‐regulation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor‐ (PPAR) and vitamin D receptor‐signaling pathways in melanoma cells
Authors: Sertznig P. , Seifert M. , Tilgen W. , Reichrath J.
Published: June 2008

Peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs) are adopted orphan nuclear hormone receptors, that regulate lipid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism. In recent studies PPAR‐ligands and other agents influencing PPAR signaling pathways have been shown to reveal chemopreventive potential by mediating tumor suppressive activities in a variety of human cancers. Thus modulating PPAR signaling pathways represent a potential novel strategy for cancer prevention and treatment. In addition, transcription of PPARs has been shown to be directly regulated by 1,25(OH)2D3. To further evaluate the potential role of PPAR‐ligands and 1,25(OH)2D3 in melanoma therapy, we have asked the following questions: (I) Do PPAR‐ligands and/or 1,25(OH)2D3 regulate cell proliferation in MeWo cells (II) Do PPAR‐ligands and/or 1,25(OH)2D3 modulate expression of corresponding nuclear receptors in MeWo cells? (III) Can we find hinds for a cross‐regulation of PPAR‐ and VDR‐signaling pathways in MeWo cells? Using real time PCR, we have characterized expression of PPARα, ‐δ ,‐γ and VDR in the melanoma cell line MeWo. We show that PPARα and ‐δ are much stronger expressed in melanoma cell lines than PPARγ. We demonstrate antiproliferative effects of various PPAR‐ligands and/or 1,25(OH)2D3 on melanoma cell lines. PPAR‐ligands and/or 1,25(OH)2D3 significantly modulate PPAR‐ and VDR‐Expression. This suggests that PPAR‐ and VDR‐signaling pathways are interconnected by reciprocal effects of the activated receptors. In conclusion, our data support the concept that PPARs may be of importance for pathogenesis, progression, and therapy of malignant melanoma.
Australasian emergency physicians: A learning and educational needs analysis. Part Four: CPD topics desired by emergency physicians
Authors: Dent Andrew W , Weiland Tracey J , Paltridge Debbie
Published: June 2008

Objective:  To report the preferences of Fellows of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine for topics they would desire for their continuing professional development (CPD).

Method:  A mailed survey of Fellows of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine asked for Likert type responses on the desirability of CPD on 15 procedural skills, 13 management skills, 11 clinical emergency topics, 9 topics related to teaching, 7 related to diagnostics and 5 evidence based practice topics.

Results:  CPD in procedural skills of advanced and surgical airways, ED ultrasound, ventilation, skills, plastic procedures and regional anaesthesia were nominated as desirable by 85% of emergency physicians (EP). More than 90% desired CPD in ophthalmological, otorhinolaryngeal, neonatal and paediatric emergencies. Of diagnostic skills, more than 80% considered CPD on computerized tomography, electrocardiography and plain X‐ray interpretation as desirable, well as CPD about teaching in general, simulation and preparing candidates for fellowship exams. Of the 12 management skills, 11 were seen as desirable topics by more than 70%, with counter disaster planning, giving feedback and dealing with complaints the most popular. All evidence based practice related skills, including interpreting statistics and undertaking literature searches were seen as desirable topics by more than 80% of EP.

Conclusion:  This information may assist in the planning of future educational interventions for emergency physicians. EP seek CPD on management, educational and other non clinical skills, as well as topics relating directly to patient care.
Effectiveness of pressure‐immobilization first aid for snakebite requires further study
Authors: Currie Bart J , Canale Elizabeth , Isbister Geoffrey K
Published: June 2008

In the prospective Royal Darwin Hospital snakebite study, pressure‐immobilization first aid (PI) was used more often than in previous studies. However, bandages were not uncommonly too loose or not applied to the whole limb and immobilization was often neglected. While PI should continue to be promoted as the standard for Australia for the present, prospective multicentre studies of snakebite with quantitative assays for blood venom concentration will hopefully better elucidate the real effectiveness of PI and define the limitations of timing of application and determine the optimum types of bandage materials to use and the pressure required to be maintained.
False impressions from clear cerebrospinal fluid and a normal computed tomography scan: The pressure is still on for a diagnosis
Authors: Cartner Michaela , Holley Anthony , Allworth Anthony
Published: June 2008

We report the case of a 33‐year‐old man presenting with seizures following a 3 week, non‐specific febrile illness characterized by progressive confusion. Despite the presence of risk factors, his HIV serology was negative and he had no premorbid suggestion of immunocompromise. We describe the difficulties in making the diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis in the presence of cerebrospinal fluid analysis with the only abnormality initially being hypoglycorrhachia. This case also highlights the importance of measuring an opening pressure, a procedure which should be routine, but is often neglected in the performance of lumbar punctures. Finally, this case reinforces the maxim that cranial CT cannot be relied upon alone to diagnose intracranial hypertension, which also requires clinical examination, including fundoscopy.
Delayed Impact of New Volcanic Ejecta on Ground Water Quality
Authors: Machida Isao , Lee Sun‐Hoon
Published: June 2008

We observed long‐term changes in the concentrations of dissolved ions in ground water caused by leachate from new volcanic ejecta deposited on the ground surface of the volcanic Miyakejima Island, Japan. Water samples were collected from nine wells and two rain collectors over a period of more than 10 years, and samples of runoff water were collected periodically. The samples were analyzed for temperature, pH, alkalinity, Cl−, and SO42−; some of the samples were also analyzed for δ13C. Because the leachate from the volcanic ejecta contained sulfate, we recorded an increase in SO42− concentrations in the (unconfined) well water. The increase in SO42− was initially detected between less than 1.4 and 5.2 years after the eruption, showing peak concentrations from 2.4 to 6.4 years after the eruption. This delayed response reflects the transit time of downward‐moving SO42− in the vadose zone, corresponding to an apparent movement rate of 0.4 to 7.2 cm/d. The rate relates to the mean recharge, represented as a fraction of local mean rainfall, and is calculated using the Cl− balance method. The magnitude of the recorded increases reflects the volume of volcanic mudflow on the ground surface within the basin. For the management of ground water after an eruption, it is therefore important to know the chemical properties of the volcanic ejecta and the spatial distribution of mudflow to estimate the magnitude of the effect of ejecta on ground water quality.
Impact of Simulation Model Solver Performance on Ground Water Management Problems
Authors: Ahlfeld David P. , Hoque Yamen
Published: June 2008

Ground water management models require the repeated solution of a simulation model to identify an optimal solution to the management problem. Limited precision in simulation model calculations can cause optimization algorithms to produce erroneous solutions. Experiments are conducted on a transient field application with a streamflow depletion control management formulation solved with a response matrix approach. The experiment consists of solving the management model with different levels of simulation model solution precision and comparing the differences in optimal solutions obtained. The precision of simulation model solutions is controlled by choice of solver and convergence parameter and is monitored by observing reported budget discrepancy. The difference in management model solutions results from errors in computation of response coefficients. Error in the largest response coefficients is found to have the most significant impact on the optimal solution. Methods for diagnosing the adequacy of precision when simulation models are used in a management model framework are proposed.