bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Expression of Human Natural Killer Cell Receptors in Early Life
Authors: Sundström Y. , Nilsson C. , Lilja G. , Kärre K. , Troye‐Blomberg M. , Berg L.
Published: July 2007

Abstract Natural killer (NK) cells play an important role in tumour immunosurveillance and the early defence against viral infections. Recognition of altered cells (i.e. infected‐ or tumour‐cells) is achieved through a multiple receptor recognition strategy which gives the NK cells inhibitory or activating signals depending on the ligands present on the target cell. NK cells originate from the bone marrow where they develop and proliferate. However, further maturation processes and homeostasis of NK cells in peripheral blood are not well understood. To determine the proportions of cells and the expression of NK cell receptors, mononuclear cells from children at three time points during early childhood were compared, i.e. cord blood (CB), 2 and 5 years of age. The proportion of NK cells was high in CB, but the interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) production low compared to later in life. In contrast, the proportion of T cells was low in CB. This may indicate a deviation of the regulatory function of NK cells in CB compared to later in life, implying an importance of innate immunity in early life before the adaptive immune system matures. Additionally, we found that the proportion of LIR‐1+ NK cells increased with increasing age while CD94+NKG2C− (NKG2A+) NK cells and the level of expression of NKG2D, NKp30 and NKp46 decreased with age. These age related changes in NK cell populations defined by the expression of activating and inhibitory receptors may be the result of pathogen exposure and/or a continuation of the maturation process that begins in the bone marrow.
Kininogens Coordinate Adaptive Immunity through the Proteolytic Release of Bradykinin, an Endogenous Danger Signal Driving Dendritic Cell Maturation
Authors: Scharfstein J. , Schmitz V. , Svensjö E. , Granato A. , Monteiro A. C.
Published: July 2007

Strategically positioned in peripheral tissues, immune sentinel cells sense microbes and/or their shed products through different types of pattern‐recognition receptors. Upon secretion, pre‐formed pro‐inflammatory mediators activate the microvasculature, inducing endothelium/neutrophil adherence and impairing endothelium barrier function. As plasma proteins enter into peripheral tissues, short‐lived proinflammatory peptides are rapidly generated by limited proteolysis of complement components and the kininogens (i.e. kinin‐precursor proteins). While much emphasis has been placed on the studies of the vascular functions of kinins, their innate effector roles remain virtually unknown. A few years ago, we reported that exogenous bradykinin (BK) potently induces dendritic cell (DC) maturation, driving IL‐12‐dependent Th1 responses through the activation of G‐protein‐coupled BK B2 receptors (B2R). The premise that immature DC might sense kinin‐releasing pathogens through B2R was demonstrated in the subcutaneous mouse model of Trypanosoma cruzi infection. Analysis of the dynamics of parasite‐evoked inflammation revealed that activation of TLR2/neutrophils drives the influx of plasma proteins, including kininogens, into peripheral tissues. Once associated to cell surfaces and/or extracellular matrices, the surface‐bound kininogens are cleaved by T. cruzi cysteine proteases. Acting as short‐lived ‘danger’ signals, kinins activate DC via B2R, converting them into Th1 inducers. Fine tuned control of the extravascular levels of these natural peptide adjuvants is exerted by kinin‐degrading metallopeptidases, e.g. Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE/CD143). In summary, the studies in the subcutaneous model of T. cruzi infection revealed that the peripheral levels of BK, a DC maturation signal, are controlled by TLR2/neutrophils and ACE, respectively characterized as positive and negative modulators of innate/adaptive immunity.
Locally Produced Survival Cytokines IL‐15 and IL‐7 may be Associated to the Predominance of CD8+ T cells at Heart Lesions of Human Chronic Chagas Disease Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Fonseca S. G. , Reis M. M. , Coelho V. , Nogueira L. G. , Monteiro S. M. , Mairena E. C. , Bacal F. , Bocchi E. , Guilherme L. , Zheng X. X. , Liew F. Y. , Higuchi M. L. , Kalil J. , Cunha‐Neto E.
Published: July 2007

Human chronic Chagas disease cardiomyopathy (CCC) is an inflammatory‐dilated cardiomyopathy occurring years after infection by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi. The heart inflammatory infiltrate in CCC shows a 2:1 predominance of CD8+ in relation to CD4+ T cells, with a typical Th1‐type cytokine profile. However, in vitro expansion of infiltrating T cells from heart biopsy‐derived fragments with interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and phytohaemagglutinin leads to the outgrowth of CD4+ over CD8+ T cells. We hypothesized that survival cytokines, such as IL‐2, IL‐7 and IL‐15 might be differentially involved in the growth and maintenance of heart‐infiltrating and peripheral CD8+ T cells from CCC patients. We found that IL‐7 and IL‐15 were superior to IL‐2 in the expansion and viability of CD8+ T cells from both PBMC and heart‐infiltrating T‐cell lines from CCC patients, and the combination of the three cytokines showed synergic effects. Heart‐infiltrating CD8+ T cells showed higher expression of both IL‐15Rα and γc chain than CD4+ T cells, which may explain the improvement of CD8+ T‐cell growth in the presence of IL‐2 + IL‐7 + IL‐15. Immunohistochemical identification of IL‐15 and the higher mRNA expression of IL‐15Rα, IL‐7 and γc chain in CCC heart tissues compared with control individuals indicate in situ production of survival cytokines and their receptors in CCC hearts. Together, our results suggest that local production of IL‐7 and IL‐15 may be associated with the maintenance and predominance of CD8+ T cells, the cells effecting tissue damage in CCC hearts.
Efficacy of Anti‐CD20 Treatment in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Resistant to a Combination of Methotrexate/Anti‐TNF Therapy
Authors: Bokarewa M. , Lindholm C. , Zendjanchi K. , Nadali M. , Tarkowski A.
Published: July 2007

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by chronic joint inflammation and destruction. B cells play important role in modulating immune responses in RA. In the present study we assessed the impact of the B cell targeting as a third line treatment option. Forty‐six patients with established erosive RA non‐responding to combination treatment with DMARDs and TNF‐α inhibitors were treated with anti‐CD20 antibodies (rituximab). Rituximab was given intravenously once weekly on four occasions. All patients continued with the previous DMARD. Patients were followed by DAS28, levels of circulating B cells, frequency of immunoglobulin‐producing cells, immunoglobulins, and rheumatoid factor levels during the period of 12–58 months. Clinical improvement was achieved in 34 of 46 patients (73%) supported by a significant reduction in DAS28 (from 6.04 to 4.64, P < 0.001). Infusion of rituximab resulted in the elimination of circulating B cells in all but one patient. Within 12 months follow‐up, B cells returned to circulation in 86% of patients. Fifty‐three percent of the patients were successfully retreated with rituximab or re‐started with anti‐TNF‐α treatment. Of the 11 non‐responders, five were retreated with anti‐CD20 within 2 months, four of them with success, four patients received TNF‐α inhibitors, the remaining two patients received an additional DMARD. Most of the RA patients resistant to TNF‐α inhibitors may be effectively treated with anti‐CD20 antibodies. The treatment is well tolerated and may be used repeatedly in the same patient and potentially increase sensitivity to previously inefficient treatment modalities.
A novel HLA‐G allele, HLA‐G*010111, in the Brazilian population
Authors: Castelli E. C. , Mendes‐Junior C. T. , Wiezel C. E. V. , Peres N. T. A. , Simões A. L. , Rossi N. M. M. , Donadi E. A.
Published: July 2007

The human leukocyte antigen‐G (HLA‐G) gene plays an important role in pregnancy and is related to negative signals for natural killer cells and T lymphocytes. Herein a new HLA‐G allele (HLA‐G*010111) is described in the Brazilian population – one of the most heterogeneous populations in the world. The new allele is associated with the 14‐bp deletion at exon 8 and is similar to the HLA‐G*01010105 allele, except for a C to G transversion at codon 117 in exon 3.
The kinetics of Ringer’s solution in young and elderly patients during induction of general anesthesia with propofol and epidural anesthesia with ropivacaine
Authors: Li Y. , Zhu S. , Hahn R. G.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Different fluid regimens are often adopted for elderly patients, but it is not known whether they handle infused fluids differently during the induction of anesthesia than young patients.

Methods:  Mean arterial pressure (MAP), plasma dilution (based on hemoglobin) and volume kinetics were assessed during an intravenous (i.v.) infusion of 1000 ml of lactated Ringer’s solution over exactly 60 min in 29 patients given general anesthesia with propofol (15 < 65 years of age, and 14 > 65 years old) and in 16 patients receiving lumbar epidural anesthesia with titrated doses of ropivacaine (7 patients < 65 years of age and 9 > 65 years old).

Results:  General anesthesia caused a greater decrease in MAP than epidural anesthesia (mean 15% vs. 9%; P < 0.001) and was followed by a more pronounced plasma dilution (30% vs. 18%; P < 0.001); the maximum values reaching 50%. The fluid‐induced hemodilution increased after the onset of anesthesia. The distribution rate constant (kt), which governs the preference for infused fluid to retain the plasma, was significantly reduced, with the lowest values being reached during general anesthesia (P < 0.002). However, only the reduction of MAP, and not the patient’s age group or the type of anesthesia per se, had a statistically significant influence on kt after the induction.

Conclusion:  Induction of anesthesia greatly increases fluid‐induced hemodilution, the magnitude of which can be expressed as an acute reduction of the distribution rate constant for infused fluid. The post‐induction value of this parameter was closely associated with MAP but not with the patient’s age.
Anti‐inflammatory effects of sevoflurane and mild hypothermia in endotoxemic rats
Authors: Hofstetter C. , Boost K. A. , Flondor M. , Basagan‐Mogol E. , Betz C. , Homann M. , Muhl H. , Pfeilschifter J. , Zwissler B.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Volatile anesthetics and hypothermia attenuate the inflammatory response. We aimed to compare the anti‐inflammatory effects of sevoflurane and mild hypothermia during experimental endotoxemia in the rat.

Methods:  Anesthetized, ventilated Sprague–Dawley (SD) rats were randomly treated as follows (n = 6 per group): lipopolysaccharide (LPS) only, animals received LPS [LPS 5 mg/kg, intravenously (i.v.)] with no further treatment. In the LPS‐hypothermia group, rats were cooled down to a temperature of 33 °C 15 min after LPS‐injection (LPS 5 mg/kg i.v.). In animals of the LPS‐sevoflurane group, sevoflurane inhalation (1 MAC) was initiated 15 min after induction of endotoxemia. The LPS‐sevoflurane‐hypothermia group received combined sevoflurane and hypothermia 15 min after induction of endotoxemia. A Sham group served as control without endotoxemia or treatment. After 4 h of endotoxemia, plasma levels of tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) and IL‐10 were measured. Alveolar macrophages (AM) were ex vivo cultured for nitrite assay.

Results:  Inhalation of sevoflurane significantly attenuated plasma levels of TNF‐α (–60%, P < 0.05) and IL‐1β (–68%, P < 0.05) as compared with the LPS‐only group. Hypothermia and its combination with sevoflurane significantly reduced TNF‐α levels (–46% and –58%, each P < 0.05), but not IL‐1β. Application of mild hypothermia and also its combination with sevoflurane resulted in a significant increase in plasma IL‐10 as compared with endotoxemic controls. Nitrite release from AM was found to be significantly suppressed by sevoflurane (–83%), hypothermia (–73%) and by the combination of both (–67%) (P < 0.05, each).

Conclusion:  Our data suggest that sevoflurane and mild hypothermia attenuate the inflammatory response during endotoxemia in vivo thus contributing to their beneficial role in clinical organ protection.
Population prevalence and risk factors for iron deficiency in Auckland, New Zealand
Authors: Grant Cameron C , Wall Clare R , Brunt Deborah , Crengle Sue , Scragg Robert
Published: July 2007

Aim:  Previous prevalence estimates of iron deficiency (ID) in young New Zealand children are inaccurate because of sampling bias and imprecise definition of ID. The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of ID in children aged 6–23 months and the factors associated with ID.

Methods:  An ethnically stratified sample identified from random residential address start points. Children resident in Auckland, New Zealand were enrolled from 1999 to 2002. Children with elevated C‐reactive protein (>4 mg/L) were excluded. Iron status was determined in 324 (78%) of 416 enrolled children. Analyses adjusted for clustering and weighted for ethnic stratification. ID defined as abnormal values for two or more of serum ferritin (<10 µg/L), iron saturation (<10%) and mean cell volume (<73 fl).

Results:  ID was present in 14% (95% confidence interval (CI) 9–17%). ID prevalence varied with ethnicity (Maori 20%, Pacific 17%, other 27%, New Zealand European 7%, P = 0.005), but not with social deprivation. In a multivariate analysis that adjusted for low birthweight, there was an increased risk of ID associated with a body mass index ≥ 18.5 kg/m2 (RR = 4.34, 95% CI 1.08–10.67), and with receiving no infant or follow on formula (RR = 3.60, 95% CI 1.56–6.49).

Conclusions:  ID is prevalent in young New Zealand children. Variance in ID prevalence with ethnicity but not social deprivation implies that cultural practices influence iron status. Young children with more rapid growth are at increased risk of ID as are those receiving milk other than that specifically modified for them.
Therapeutic lung lavage in meconium aspiration syndrome: A preliminary report
Authors: Dargaville Peter A , Mills John F , Copnell Beverley , Loughnan Peter M , McDougall Peter N , Morley Colin J
Published: July 2007

Aim:  To explore the effects of a large volume lung lavage procedure in ventilated infants with meconium aspiration syndrome.

Methods:  Infants with severe meconium aspiration requiring high‐frequency ventilation underwent lung lavage using dilute bovine surfactant at a phospholipid concentration of 5 mg/mL. Lavage aliquot volumes were increased through the case series, aiming to deliver two aliquots of 15 mL/kg in rapid sequence. Physiological effects of lavage were documented, and comparison was made with a group of infants with meconium aspiration requiring high‐frequency ventilation, in whom lavage was not performed.

Results:  Nine episodes of lavage were performed in eight infants at a median age of 23 h (range 8–83 h). Three infants underwent a lavage that was defined as potentially therapeutic (total lavage volume of at least 25 mL/kg administered before 24 h of age). Lavage was not associated with bradycardia or hypotension. Recovery of arterial oxygen saturation to above 80% was achieved within 12 min in all but one infant in whom oxygen saturation was below 80% at the outset. Mean airway pressure was significantly lower in the Therapeutic lavage group compared with non‐lavaged infants in the first 48 h, with a trend towards improved oxygenation.

Conclusion:  Dilute surfactant lavage with aliquots of up to 15 mL/kg appears to be feasible in haemodynamically stable ventilated infants with meconium aspiration syndrome, and its efficacy deserves further investigation in a randomised controlled trial.
How involuntary commitment impacts on the burden of care of the family
Authors: Hallam Larissa
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT:  Little research has examined how, or if, involuntary commitment has impacted on the burden experienced by the family. This paper reports a qualitative study which explored how involuntary commitment under the Mental Health Act (MHA) 2000 in Queensland, Australia impacted on families of people with mental illness. Family members of a person with a mental illness, under involuntary commitment at the time or in the previous 12 months, participated in focus groups. Thematic analysis was used to determine the themes. It was apparent from the views of the family that the use of the involuntary commitment was influenced greatly by the pressures experienced by the mental health services (MHS). The MHA did little to assist the family in gaining access to MHS. It was not until after the family made repeated attempts that they were taken seriously. Often the family had few options other than to use deceit and threats to obtain the necessary treatment required. In view of this, the inherit nature of what involuntary commitment implies for persons under it, such as refusing treatment and management difficulties, indicates the family with such an individual experience more hardship in trying to obtain assistance for that person. Thus, the MHA in Queensland has not met its goals of increasing access to MHS. Family members perceive that they were not being listened to and their concerns were not acted upon. The current culture of the MHS appears to serve, to a large degree, to estrange the family from the consumer making relationships difficult and time‐consuming to repair. The mental health profession is urged to consider the culture within their workplace and move towards constructive involvement of the family.
Suicidal patients as experienced by psychiatric nurses in inpatient care
Authors: Carlén Pontus , Bengtsson Anita
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT:  Psychiatric nurses have a major influence on the lives of patients with suicidal behaviour in inpatient care. Despite this, there is a lack of knowledge about how nurses experience patients with suicidal behaviour in a deeper sense. The aim of this study was to investigate how psychiatric nurses experience patients with suicidal behaviour within an inpatient psychiatric context. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with 11 psychiatric nurses, each of whom had more than 5 years of experience caring for patients with suicidal behaviour. Data were analysed using qualitative latent content analysis. Two main themes emerged from the data analysis. These are ‘labelled’ and ‘suffering’. In the nurses' natural attitude, they saw patients as being labelled with different conditions and/or behaviours based on objective signs. These were categorized into different groups or identities such as psychiatric diagnosis, mask wearer, screened‐off, or the social, relapsing or determined patient. On reflection, however, the nurses described the patients' suffering in terms related to feelings of hopelessness, meaninglessness, and being out of control. The nurses' experiences of the patients as suffering were based on their subjective reflective experience of the patients. The study gives support to the conclusion that two main logic systems are represented in the care of patients with suicidal behaviour: technical practical and nursing perspectives. In order to ensure that these two logic systems combine, it is necessary for the psychiatric care organization to intervene to support the nurses in reflecting on their everyday work.
Working together: A joint initiative between academics and clinicians to prepare undergraduate nursing students to work in mental health settings
Authors: Curtis Janette
Published: July 2007

ABSTRACT:  There is ongoing concern among mental health professionals regarding the recruitment of newly graduated nurses to this specialist nursing area. Many reasons for the problem have been identified, including the perceived inadequate preparation by the tertiary sector, students' prejudices and anxieties about mental illness, a perceived lack of support while undertaking clinical placement, and the quality of the clinical placement itself. This paper describes a collaborative response to these issues undertaken in the Illawarra region of New South Wales, Australia. The implementation of preclinical undergraduate workshops using problem‐based learning and role plays were undertaken. Mental health nursing scenarios were developed in association with experienced clinicians to introduce core concepts in a supportive learning environment. Quantitative and qualitative evaluation data were collected immediately following the workshop and again after the students returned to the university following a mental health clinical placement. A further survey of one cohort was undertaken 12 months after initial state registration and the beginning of a career in mental health nursing. Results showed that both students' and clinicians' attitudes to the workshops were consistently positive and indicated that the workshops were beneficial in preparing students for their clinical placement. Importantly, since the implementation of the workshops and other collaborative initiatives, an increasing number of newly graduated nurses from the region are choosing to work in mental health.
Revisiting the effect of nearby supernova remnants on local cosmic rays
Authors: Thoudam Satyendra
Published: July 2007

In an earlier paper, the effect of the nearby known supernova remnants (SNRs) on the local cosmic rays (CRs) was studied, considering different possible forms of the particle injection time. The present work is a continuation of the previous work, but assumes a more realistic model of CR propagation in the Galaxy. The previous work assumed an unbounded three-dimensional diffusion region, whereas the present one considers a flat cylindrical disc bounded in both the radial and vertical directions. The study has found that the effect of the vertical halo boundary H on the local SNR contribution to the observed CR anisotropy is negligible as long as H≳ 2 kpc. Considering the values of the halo height H≳ 2 kpc obtained by different authors, the present work suggests that the study of the effect of local sources on the CR anisotropy can be carried out without having much information on H, and hence using the much simpler three-dimensional unbounded solution. Finally, the present work discusses the possibility of explaining the observed anisotropy below the knee by a single dominant source with properly chosen source parameters, and claims that the source may be an undetected old SNR with a characteristic age of ∼1.5 × 105 yr located at a distance of ∼0.57 kpc from the Sun.
APPLICATION OF BIOINFORMATICS RESOURCES FOR GENOSENSOR DESIGN
Authors: KHLEBODAROVA TAMARA M. , TIKUNOVA NINA V. , KACHKO ALLA V. , STEPANENKO IRINA L. , PODKOLODNY NIKOLAI L. , KOLCHANOV NIKOLAI A.
Published: July 2007

Two novel databases, GenSensor and ConSensor, have been developed. GenSensor accumulates information on the sensitivities of the prokaryotic genes to external stimuli and may facilitate designing of novel genosensors; ConSensor contains data about the structure and efficiency of the available genosensor plasmid constructs. Using these databases, candidate genes for the design of novel multiple functional genosensors were searched, and the Escherichia coli dps gene was chosen as the candidate. The genetic construct derived from its promoter was developed and tested for its sensitivity to various stress agents: hydrogen peroxide (oxidative stress), phenol (protein and membrane damaging), and mitomycin C (DNA damaging). This genosensor was found to be sensitive to all stress conditions applied confirming its ability to serve as multi-functional genosensor. The GenSensor and ConSensor databases are available at .
Crustal evolution of Western and Central Europe
Authors: Ziegler P. A. , Dèzes P.
Published: July 2007

A new Moho depth map has been assembled for Western and Central Europe and the Western Mediterranean area that is exclusively based on published regional Moho depth maps. Tectonic overlays summarize Caledonian and Variscan tectonic units, Permo-Carboniferous fault systems and magmatic provinces, Mesozoic and Cenozoic rift-wrench systems, areas of intraplate compression, the outlines of Alpine orogens and the distribution of oceanic crust. Based on a comparison of these overlays with the Moho depth map we assess processes that controlled the evolution of the crust in the various parts of Europe through time. The present-day crustal configuration of Western and Central Europe results from polyphase Late Palaeozoic to recent lithospheric deformation that overprinted the margin of the Proterozoic East European Craton and particularly the Caledonian and Variscan crustal domains. Following consolidation of the Caledonides, their crustal roots were destroyed in conjunction with Devonian wrench tectonics and back-arc rifting. During the Permo-Carboniferous tectonomagmatic cycle, wrench faulting disrupted the crust of the Variscan Orogen and its foreland and the lithosphere of these regions was thermally destabilized. Late Permian and Mesozoic re-equilibration of the lithosphere-asthenosphere system was interrupted by the development of the Arctic-North Atlantic, Tethyan and associated rift systems. During the Alpine orogenic cycle, intraplate compressional stresses controlled basin inversion-related crustal thickening and lithospheric folding, as well as the evolution of the Rhine-Rhone rift system. Variably deep crustal roots characterize the Alpine orogenic chains. Neogene back-arc extension disrupted the eastern Pyrenees, Betic-Balearic, Apennine and Dinarides orogens.
Europe from the Variscan to the Alpine cycles
Authors: Stamfli Gérard M. , Kozur Heinz W.
Published: July 2007

The time span between the Variscan and Alpine cycles is not devoid of any major tectonic activity, and corresponds to the Cimmerian cycle. Between the Early Permian and Late Triassic, the Eocimmerian cycle was marked by the closure of Palaeotethys and opening of Neotethys and of an array of south Eurasian back-arc basins. This was followed by the break-up of Pangaea and the Early Jurassic opening of the central Atlantic and Alpine Tethys. However, in the area of the Eocimmerian collision, the geodynamic evolution is relatively uninfluenced by this event, and a new cycle of Cimmerian deformation affected the Hellenides, Dinarides, Balkans and Pontides in Jurassic-Early Cretaceous times. The anti-clockwise rotation of Africa during the Late Cretaceous heralded the onset of Alpine orogenic processes, characterized first by major east-west shortening, and opening and closure of younger oceanic basins of back-arc type.
European geography in a global context from the Vendian to the end of the Palaeozoic
Authors: Cocks L. R. M. , Torsvik T. H.
Published: July 2007

A succession of palaeogeographical reconstructions is presented, covering half the globe and the time interval from the latest Proterozoic (Vendian) at 550 Ma to the end of the Palaeozoic (latest Permian) at 250 Ma, mostly at 20 or 30 Ma intervals. The various terranes that today constitute Europe are defined and their margins discussed briefly; these are Gondwana, Avalonia, the Rheno-Hercynian Terrane, the Armorican Terrane Assemblage, Perunica, Apulia, Adria, the Hellenic Terrane (including Moesia), Laurentia, and Baltica. As time elapsed, many of these terranes combined to form first Laurussia and subsequently Pangaea. The further terranes of Siberia and Kara adjoined Europe and were relevant to its Palaeozoic development. Brief sections are included on the individual history and geography of the Vendian and the six Palaeozoic systems, with emphasis on their importance in the building of Europe.
Tertiary-Quaternary subduction processes and related magmatism in the Alpine-Mediterranean region
Authors: Harangi Szabolcs , Downes Hilary , Seghedi Ioan
Published: July 2007

During Tertiary to Quaternary times, convergence between Eurasia and Africa resulted in a variety of collisional orogens and different styles of subduction in the Alpine-Mediterranean region. Characteristic features of this area include arcuate orogenic belts and extensional basins, both of which can be explained by roll-back of subducted slabs and retreating subduction zones. After cessation of active subduction, slab detachment and post-collisional gravitational collapse of the overthickened lithosphere took place. This complex tectonic history was accompanied by the generation of a wide variety of magmas. Most of these magmas (e.g. low-K tholeiitic, calc-alkaline, shoshonitic and ultrapotassic types) have trace element and isotopic fingerprints that are commonly interpreted to reflect enrichment of their source regions by subduction-related fluids. Thus, they can be considered as 'subduction-related' magmas irrespective of their geodynamic relationships. Intraplate alkali basalts are also found in the region and generally postdated the 'subduction-related' volcanism. These mantle-derived magmas have not (or only slightly) been influenced by subduction-related enrichment. This paper summarizes the geodynamic setting of the Tertiary-Quaternary 'subduction-related' magmatism in the various segments of the Alpine-Mediterranean region (Betic-Alboran-Rif province, Central Mediterranean, the Alps, Carpathian-Pannonian region, Dinarides and Hellenides, Aegean and Western Anatolia), and discusses the main characteristics and compositional variation of the magmatic rocks. Radiogenic and stable isotope data indicate the importance of continental crustal material in the genesis of these magmas. Interaction with crustal material probably occurred both in the upper mantle during subduction ('source contamination') and in the continental crust during ascent of mantle-derived magmas (either by mixing with crustal melts or by crustal contamination). The
87
Sr/
86
Sr and
206
Pb/
204
Pb isotope ratios indicate that an enriched mantle component, akin to the source of intraplate alkali mafic magmas along the Alpine foreland, played a key role in the petrogenesis of the 'subduction-related' magmas of the Alpine-Mediterranean region. This enriched mantle component could be related to mantle plumes or to long-term pollution (deflection of the central Atlantic plume and recycling of crustal material during subduction) of the shallow mantle beneath Europe since the late Mesozoic. In the first case, subduction processes could have had an influence in generating asthenospheric flow by deflecting nearby mantle plumes as a result of slab roll-back or slab break-off. In the second case, the variation in the chemical composition of the volcanic rocks in the Mediterranean region can be explained by 'statistical sampling' of the strongly inhomogeneous mantle followed by variable degrees of crustal contamination.
Eastern Mediterranean basin systems
Authors: Ben-Avraham Zvi , Woodside John , Lodolo Emanuele , Gardosh Michael , Grasso Mario , Camerlenghi Angelo , Vai Gian Battista
Published: July 2007

The basins in the Eastern Mediterranean can be divided into those that were formed mainly in post-Miocene time and those that were formed during the rifting episodes that led to the formation of the Neotethys. The younger basins can be further divided into those that were formed mainly in post-Miocene time and those that were formed in post-Pliocene time. The separation is not only one of convenience but also corresponds to major adjustments in the plate tectonic situation in the Eastern Mediterranean. The late Miocene deposition of thick evaporites throughout the Mediterranean region, or, where evaporites are missing, the creation of an important erosional unconformity during the extreme lowstand of the Mediterranean, makes the Miocene-Pliocene boundary relatively easy to identify, especially on seismic reflection records. At about the same time, following the collision of the Arabian plate with Eurasia, the Anatolian and Aegean microplates came into existence between the convergent African and Eurasian plates to accommodate tectonic escape between them. The general configuration of the Eastern Mediterranean basins reflects the tectonic and structural gradients between the collisional domain of southeastern Turkey and Iran, and the continuing but increasingly limited subduction along the Calabrian and Hellenic arcs, with the Cyprus and Levantine zones between them. Several distinct zones can be identified in the Eastern Mediterranean. The Dead Sea Fault system marks the edge between the collisional and pre-collisional zones to the east and west, respectively. The meridian through the Anaximander Mountains (30©E) forms a rough boundary between the zone of incipient collision to the east and the zone of continuing but late-stage subduction to the west. The Malta Escarpment forms the Eastern boundary of the Eastern Mediterranean basins. The series of basins along the northern margin of the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea share this progressive evolution, with those containing Messinian evaporites to the east and those without to the west. The Sicily Channel with its associated basins is an extensional zone between the Eastern and Western Mediterranean. The basins discussed in this paper are divided into two groups, the larger and older basins and the smaller and younger basins. In the first group are the Ionian Basin and the Levantine Basin, and in the second group the Cilicia Basin, Antalya Basin, Finike Basin, Rhodes Basin, Aegean basins, Sicily Channel basins, Latakia Basin and Larnaca Basin. The Eastern Mediterranean represents the last stage in the evolution of an ocean basin. Given the current motion between Africa and Eurasia, the Eastern Mediterranean will cease to exist in about 6-8 Ma from now. As a result, the larger and older basins are shrinking, whereas the younger and smaller basins are growing. Eventually the smaller basins will also disappear.
The Variscan orogen in Central Europe: construction and collapse
Authors: Franke Wolfgang
Published: July 2007

On the basis of a brief survey of the subdivision and evolution of the Variscides, this paper addresses controversial issues relating to the plate kinematic assembly and the 'collapse' of the orogen. A widespread phase of Devonian extension and basaltic magmatism is at variance with overall convergence. This episode either reflects subduction of the Rheic mid-ocean ridge, or else relates to a set of mantle plumes that also produced the Dniepr-Donets aulacogen. Another controversy regards the position of Gondwana in Devonian and Early Carboniferous time. Contrary to recent proposals of a wide Palaeotethys ocean, biogeographical and palaeomagnetic data suggest, until the Late Carboniferous, a Pangaea B model with Gondwana juxtaposed against Southern Europe. Contrary to the concept of Late Carboniferous-Permian 'collapse' of a central Variscan high plateau, major crustal thickening occurred only in relatively narrow belts, and parts of the central Variscides were close to sea level from the Late Devonian onwards. Collision occurred in a high-temperature regime from c. 350-340 Ma onwards. Heating by several independent mechanisms effected the reduction of orogenic roots by buoyant rise and lateral spreading of thermally softened crust. However, major flysch wedges reflect the importance of erosion and uplift. Late Carboniferous-Permian magmatism and extension associated with strike-slip zones affected a largely equilibrated crust. These events probably relate to the westward displacement of Gondwana and the opening of the Palaeotethys embayment (Pangaea B to Pangaea A).
EUROBRIDGE: new insight into the geodynamic evolution of the East European Craton
Authors: Bogdanova Svetlana , Gorbatschev R. , Grad M. , Janik T. , Guterch A. , Kozlovskaya E. , Motuza G. , Skridlaite G. , Starostenko V. , Taran L. ,   EUROBRIDGE and POLONAISE Working Groups
Published: July 2007

The Palaeoproterozoic crust and upper mantle in the region between the Ukrainian and Baltic shields of the East European Craton were built up finally during collision of the previously independent Fennoscandian and Sarmatian crustal segments at c. 1.8-1.7 Ga. EUROBRIDGE seismic profiling and geophysical modelling across the southwestern part of the Craton suggest that the Central Belarus Suture Zone is the junction between the two colliding segments. This junction is marked by strong deformation of the crust and the presence of a metamorphic core complex. At 1.80-1.74 Ga, major late to post-collisional extension and magmatism affected the part of Sarmatia adjoining the Central Belarus Zone and generated a high-velocity layer at the base of the crust. Other sutures separating terranes of different ages are found within Sarmatia and in the Polish-Lithuanian part of Fennoscandia. While Fennoscandia and Sarmatia were still a long distance apart, orogeny was dominantly accretionary. The accreted Palaeoproterozoic terranes in the Baltic-Belarus region of Fennoscandia are all younger than 2.0 Ga (2.0-1.9, 1.90-1.85 and 1.84-1.82 Ga), whereas those in Sarmatia have ages of c. 2.2-2.1 and 2.0-1.95 Ga. Lithospheric deformation and magmatism at c. 1.50-1.45 Ga, and Devonian rifting, are also defined by the EUROBRIDGE seismic and gravity models.
Comparison of Sutured versus Non-Sutured Subcutaneous Fat Tissue in Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Paral J. , Ferko A. , Varga J. , Antos F. , Plodr M. , Lochman P. , Subrt Z.
Published: July 2007

Purpose: The aim of this prospective randomized study was to investigate the necessity of suturing subcutaneous fat tissue in elective abdominal surgery. Methods: 415 patients undergoing elective abdominal surgery were admitted to the trial. The patients were divided into two basic groups according to wound contamination: clean operations (n = 201) and clean-contaminated operation (n = 214). Subcutaneous suturing of the subcutaneous fat tissue was performed in half of the patients in each group, determined using the envelope method (‘Suture Yes’ or ‘Suture No’). Wounds were checked on postoperative days 3, 7, 14, and 30. Infectious and non-infectious wound complications were charted in the records. Data were statistically analyzed. The percentages of complications in groups with and without subcutaneous suturing were statistically compared using Yates’ corrected χ2 two-tailed test. Results: There were no statistically significant group differences in infectious and non-infectious wound complications. Conclusion: These results suggest that omission of subcutaneous fat tissue suturing does not increase the occurrence of infectious or non-infectious wound complications.
Comparison of Pain Responses in Infants of Different Gestational Ages
Authors: Gibbins Sharyn , Stevens Bonnie , McGrath Patrick J. , Yamada Janet , Beyene Joseph , Breau Lynn , Camfield Carol , Finley Allen , Franck Linda , Johnston Celeste , Howlett Alixe , McKeever Patricia , O’Brien Karel , Ohlsson Arne
Published: July 2007

Background: There is a plethora of infant pain measures; however, none of them have been validated for extremely low for gestational age (ELGA) infants (<27 weeks’ gestation). To date, clinicians, researchers and parents use information gleaned from more mature infants to make inferences about pain in ELGA infants. Using physiological or behavioral pain indicators derived from more mature infants may lead to inaccurate assessments and management. Objectives: To compare physiological (heart rate, oxygen saturation) and behavioral (9 facial activities, cry) pain indicators of ELGA infants with infants of varying more mature gestational ages (GAs). Methods: The aim was to determine the effects of GA on pain response. GA was categorized into four mutually exclusive strata: <27 6/7 weeks, 28–31 6/7 weeks, 32–35 6/7 weeks and >36 weeks. Physiological data during four phases of a routine heel lance were collected by placing disposable ECG electrodes and pulse oximetry probes on the infant’s chest. Behavioral data were collected by videotaping facial activities, and cry data were collected by audio recording. Results: Four facial activities (brow bulge, eye squeeze, nasolabial furrow, vertical mouth stretch) in response to acute pain were present in ELGA infants. Facial activities increased following painful procedures and the magnitude of responses was proportional to GA with the youngest infants (<27 6/7 weeks GA) showing the least amount of change. Decreased oxygen saturation and increased heart rate were associated with the most invasive phase of the heel lance; however, the differences were neither clinically or statistically significant across age groups. Cry was not a sensitive pain indicator in ELGA infants, due to the presence of endotracheal tubes in this high-risk population. Discussion: ELGA infants have similar pain responses to older infants, but the responses are dampened. Other factors such as severity of illness, frequency of painful procedures or medication use should be examined, as they may influence the pain responses in ELGA infants.
Development, Reliability and Validity of a Self-Administered Questionnaire on Subjective Opinion about Delusions and Voices
Authors: Pinto A. , Gigantesco A. , Morosini P. , La Pia S.
Published: July 2007

Objective: This study focuses on the psychometric characteristics of a self-report instrument, the Delusion and Voices Self-Assessment (DV-SA) questionnaire, to assess delusions and auditory hallucinations from the clients’ perspective. Methods: The DV-SA was administered to 70 schizophrenic patients in treatment in an outpatient mental health clinic in Naples, Italy. It was administered twice to determine the test-retest reliability. A clinician who was blind to the patients’ DV-SA ratings also rated the Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BPRS). Sensitivity to change was assessed in 30 patients who completed a 24-week course of cognitive-behavioural therapy sessions. Results: The DV-SA showed good internal consistency and structure, and an acceptable average of item-total correlation. The test-retest reliability was very satisfactory. The comparison between DV-SA and BPRS showed a good association for illness severity. Conclusions: The DV-SA may be a reliable, valid and sensitive instrument for assessing subjective experiences on delusions and auditory hallucinations. The brevity and limited need for assistance make it an efficient instrument to assess patients’ evolution during therapy.
Endothelial immunogenicity – A matter of matrix microarchitecture
Authors: Hess Shmuel , Edelman Elazer , Methe Heiko
Published: July 2007

The endothelium is a highly specialized active interface between blood and the underlying tissues, maintaining vascular tone, thrombo-resistance and selective permeability to cells and proteins. It is also an important regulator of inflammatory diseases, and endothelial-leukocyte interactions often herald complex diseases with an inflammatory component.Yet, the exact mechanisms promoting immune activation of endothelial cells (EC) are incompletely understood. Knowledge is accumulating that the immediate environment defines the cellular phenotype, whereby matrix composition and spatial formation (three- versus two-dimensional) seem to act as pivotal mediators. Here we summarize current findings denoting a key role of matrix environment in regulating endothelial immunogenicity. The immune response to three-dimensional matrix-embedded EC stands in stark contrast to the response engendered by injection of these same cells in their free state. Matrix-embedding confers a quiescent endothelial state with reduced expression levels of chemokines, adhesion, costimulatory, and major histocompatibility complex II molecules. Compared to EC grown on two-dimensional tissue culture plates, cytokine-stimulation of matrixembedded EC results in significantly reduced adhesion of natural killer cells and proliferation of co-cultivated allogeneicT cells. On the contrary, matrix-embedded EC induce an immune-inhibitory phenotype of dendritic cells and T regulatory cells to a greater extent than non-embedded EC. As vascular diseases are associated with profound changes in basement membrane composition and overall tissue architecture, our results indicate that the immediate environment of EC might play a pivotal role in initiating and regulating of different vascular diseases. Cell-matrix interconnections appear to govern endothelial immunogenicity and interactions between EC and immune cells.
Effects of a Monoclonal Antibody Raised Against Nerve Growth Factor on Skeletal Pain and Bone Healing After Fracture of the C57BL/6J Mouse Femur
Authors: Koewler Nathan J , Freeman Katie T , Buus Ryan J , Herrera Monica B , Jimenez-Andrade Juan M , Ghilardi Joseph R , Peters Christopher M , Sullivan Lucy J , Kuskowski Michael A , Lewis Jack L , Mantyh Patrick W
Published: July 2007

A closed femur fracture pain model was developed in the C57BL/6J mouse. One day after fracture, a monoclonal antibody raised against nerve growth factor (anti-NGF) was delivered intraperitoneally and resulted in a reduction in fracture pain-related behaviors of ∼50%. Anti-NGF therapy did not interfere with bone healing as assessed by mechanical testing and histomorphometric analysis.

Introduction: Current therapies to treat skeletal fracture pain are limited. This is because of the side effect profile of available analgesics and the scarcity of animal models that can be used to understand the mechanisms that drive this pain. Whereas previous studies have shown that mineralized bone, marrow, and periosteum are innervated by sensory and sympathetic fibers, it is not understood how skeletal pain is generated and maintained even in common conditions such as osteoarthritis, low back pain, or fracture.

Materials and Methods: In this study, we characterized the pain-related behaviors after a closed femur fracture in the C57BL/6J mouse. Additionally, we assessed the effect of a monoclonal antibody that binds to and sequesters nerve growth factor (anti-NGF) on pain-related behaviors and bone healing (mechanical properties and histomorphometric analysis) after fracture.

Results: Administration of anti-NGF therapy (10 mg/kg, days 1, 6, and 11 after fracture) resulted in a reduction of fracture pain-related behaviors of ∼50%. Attenuation of fracture pain was evident as early as 24 h after the initial dosing and remained efficacious throughout the course of fracture pain. Anti-NGF therapy did not modify biomechanical properties of the femur or histomorphometric indices of bone healing.

Conclusions: These findings suggest that therapies that target NGF or its cognate receptor(s) may be effective in attenuating nonmalignant fracture pain without interfering with bone healing.
Malaysia-Japan Relations under the Mahathir Administration: Case Studies of the “Look East” Policy and Japanese Investment in Malaysia
Authors: Furuoka Fumitaka
Published: July 2007

This article analyzes Malaysia-Japan relations under the Mahathir administration, focusing on two case studies, the “Look East” policy and Japanese direct investment in Malaysia. As the case studies suggest, Mahathir's policies were first and foremost dictated by his nationalism and anti-Western stance, which tended at times to alienate the Japanese government.
Poor Policies, Wealthy Peasants: Alternative Trajectories of Rural Development in Vietnam
Authors: Taylor Philip
Published: July 2007

Examining recent momentous changes in rural Vietnam, this article contends that many rural development policies implemented by the state and international development agencies adopt criteria of progress that are inappropriate to the situation and needs of rural people. However, far from being left entirely bereft by the failures of official development schemes, rural people in Vietnam have access to an alternative set of resources and strategies to improve their lives. Using examples from the Mekong Delta, the article demonstrates that these resources and strategies help rural people realize a quality of life that is engaged, modern, and viable.