bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROLE OF FETAL AND INFANT GROWTH IN PROGRAMMING METABOLISM IN LATER LIFE
Authors: DESAI M. , HALES C. N.
Published: August 2010

Fetal growth and development is dependent upon the nutritional, hormonal and metabolic environment provided by the mother. Any disturbance in this environment can modify early fetal development with possible long‐term outcomes as demonstrated by extensive work on ‘programming’. Growth restriction resulting from a deficit in tissue/organ cell number (as measured by tissue DNA content) is irrecoverable. However, when the cell size (or cell protein content) is reduced, the effects on growth may not be permanent.

Recent epidemiological studies using archival records of anthropometric measurements related to early growth in humans have shown strong statistical associations between these indices of early development and diseases in later life. It has been hypothesised that the processes explaining these associations involve adaptive changes in fetal organ development in response to maternal and fetal malnutrition. These adaptations may permanently alter adult metabolism in a way which is beneficial to survival under continued conditions of malnutrition but detrimental when nutrition is abundant.

This hypothesis is being tested in a rat model which involves studying the growth and metabolism in the offspring of rat dams fed a low‐protein diet during pregnancy and/or lactation. Using this rat model, it has been demonstrated that there is:

Permanent growth retardation in offspring nursed by dams fed a low‐protein diet.

Permanent and selective changes in organ growth. Essential organs like the brain and lungs are relatively protected from reduction in growth at the expense of visceral organs such as the liver, pancreas, muscle and spleen.

Programming of liver metabolism as reflected by permanent changes in activities of key hepatic enzymes of glycolysis and gluconeogenesis (glucokinase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase) in a direction which would potentially bias the liver towards a ‘starved’ setting. We have speculated that these changes could be a result of altered periportal and perivenous regions of the liver which may also affect other aspects of hepatic function.

Deterioration in glucose tolerance with age.

An increase in the life span of offspring exposed to maternal protein restriction only during the lactation period, and a decrease in life span when exposed to maternal protein restriction only during gestation.

These studies show that hepatic metabolism and even longevity can be programmed by events during early life.
RESPONSES OF PLANTS TO INFECTION BY BOTRYTIS CINEREA AND NOVEL MEANS INVOLVED IN REDUCING THEIR SUSCEPTIBILITY TO INFECTION
Authors: ELAD Y.
Published: August 2010

Once the inoculum of B. cinerea conies into contact with the host and starts to be active in the phyllosphere of a susceptible host tissue, a series of events take place. These events may develop into a process that leads to necrosis of the host, or may end in an arrested infection with minimal damage to the host tissue. Increased susceptibility to the pathogen is associated with factors that enhance ageing of the host tissues, such as the plant hormones ethylene and abscisic acid and elevation of free radical levels in the host tissue. Decreased susceptibility is obtained by inhibiting the production or activity of such factors in the presence of increased levels of plant hormones such as gibberellic acid, and by increasing the calcium content of the cell walls and by scavenging of free radicals in the host tissue. There is evidence for the induction of resistance in hosts affected by B. cinerea. Host tissues challenged by B. cinerea react at the DNA, RNA and protein level and accumulate pathogenicity related proteins, phytoalexins or other phenolic compounds. Deposition of polymers in cell walls and lignification have also been recorded in various hosts. The role of each of these factors in relation to protection is not clear. Moreover, some of the phenomena may occur too late to protect the host tissue against infection. Although the inhibition of specific proteins such as polygalacturonases has been suggested as a mechanism by which to inhibit disease, it is unlikely that the inhibition of one enzyme, would lead to significant restriction of infection. However, simultaneous inhibition of several hydrolytic enzymes produced by the pathogen should result in disease suppression. Possibilities of reducing the susceptibility of hosts or arresting further development of localized infections are discussed.
SPIRACLE STRUCTURE IN TICKS (IXODIDA: ANACTINOTRICHIDA: ARACHNIDA): RÉSUMÉ, TAXONOMIC AND FUNCTIONAL SIGNIFICANCE
Authors: PUGH P. J. A.
Published: August 2010

Spiracle and tracheal structure in the extant Ixodida is revised and shown to comprise 29 distinct component characters, some of which are common to all Anactinotrichida, while others are unique to the Ixodida or one of its six component clades of ((Argasidae Nuttalliellidae) (Prostriata Metastriata)). Structural variation both between and within families is based upon combinations of minor differences in the component characters, only one of which, spiracular position, proved to be incongruent within the most parsimonious cluster‐ and tree‐analysis solutions. Tracheal airflow in ticks is mediated via passive diffusion gradients. In the argasid spiracle, both aeropyles and ostium are functional, although the latter is only opened briefly during infrequent periods of activity. The ixodid ostium is sealed and all gas exchange takes place via an enlarged sieveplate which reduces transpiration via small aeropyles, an underlying dense array of pedicels and possibly hygroscopic sub‐atrial glands. Changes in spiracular morphology from a more ‘ancestral’ argasid type to a more ‘derived’ ixodid type are correlated with changes in tick behaviour, particularly with increased activity associated with the change from nidicoly to host‐seeking.
Strategies and counterstrategies to infanticide in mammals
Authors: EBENSPERGER LUIS A.
Published: August 2010

I analyse and summarize the empirical evidence in mammals supporting alternative benefits that individuals may accrue when committing nonparental infanticide. Nonparental infanticide may provide the perpetrator with nutritional benefits, increased access to limited resources, increased reproductive opportunities, or it may prevent misdirecting parental care to unrelated offspring. The possibility that infanticide is either a neutral or maladaptive behaviour also is considered. I devote the second half of this article to reviewing potential mechanisms that individuals may use to prevent infanticide. These counterstrategies include the early termination of pregnancy, direct aggression by the mother against intruders, the formation of coalitions for group defence, the avoidance of infanticidal conspecifics, female promiscuity, and territoriality. I evaluate the support for each benefit and counterstrategy across different groups of mammals and make suggestions for future research.
The effect of group size on mean food intake rate in birds
Authors: BEAUCHAMP GUY
Published: August 2010

A description of the relationship between mean food intake rate (MFIR) and group size is important in assessing the adaptiveness of group living in animals. Several hypotheses argue that foraging in groups can be beneficial in terms of MFIR but an overall assessment of the evidence available thus far was lacking. I examined this relationship in birds using studies that provided a measure of MFIR in groups of different sizes and evaluated the effect of study design and food type. In addition, I noted some of the mechanisms thought to be responsible for changes in MFIR with group size and quantified the impact of the addition of individual foragers. The most common pattern of change in MFIR with group size was a monotonic increase. The different patterns of change in MFIR with group size occurred with similar frequencies in experimental and observational studies despite the fact that observational studies often lacked control for confounding factors. Increases in MFIR were more likely to be associated with seeds as a food type than with fish or invertebrates, and were least likely with carcasses. This finding was related to the ease with which individuals can use aggression to increase their share of resources that are more concentrated in space. Adjustments in vigilance levels and aggression, as well as more subtle changes in speed of search and handling time, were correlated with changes in MFIR with group size. Finally, the addition of three to four individuals appeared to be needed to double the MFIR of a solitary bird. The results suggest that foraging in avian groups is often associated with increased MFIRs and that several ecological factors, including food dispersion, influence the pattern of change with group size.
A behavioural analysis of phase change in the desert locust
Authors: SIMPSON STEPHEN J. , McCAFFERY ALAN R. , HÄGELE BERND F.
Published: August 2010

A programme of research into phase change in the desert locust,Schistocerca gregaria, is described. The ability to change phase between solitarious and gregarious forms in response to population density is a key feature of locusts and is central to their occasional yet catastrophic impact on humans. Phase polymorphism is an extreme form of phenotypic plasticity. The most labile phase characteristic is behaviour. It is argued that a fully integrated study of behavioural phase change provides a powerful tool for understanding both the mechanisms of phase change and locust population dynamics, both of which offer possibilities for improved management and control of desert locust plagues. An assay for measuring behavioural phase‐state in individual locusts was derived, based on logistic regression analysis. Experiments are described that used the assay to quantify the time‐course of behavioural change, both within the life of individual locusts and across generations. The locust‐related stimuli that provoke behavioural gregarization were investigated. Complex interactions were found between tactile, visual and olfactory stimuli, with the former exerting the strongest effect. Behavioural analysis also directed a study of the mechanisms whereby adult females exert an epigenetic influence over the phase‐state of their developing offspring. Female locusts use their experience of the extent and recency of being crowded to predict the probability that their offspring will emerge into a high‐density population, and alter the development of their embryos accordingly through a gregarizing agent added to the foam that surrounds the eggs at laying. There is also a less pronounced paternal influence on hatchling phase‐state. An understanding of the time‐course of behavioural phase change led to a study of the effect of the fine‐scale distribution of resources in the environment on interactions between individual locusts, and hence on phase change. This, in turn, stimulated an exploration of the implications of individual behavioural phase change for population dynamics. Cellular automata models were derived that explore the relationships between population density, density of food resources and the distribution of resources in the environment. The results of the simulation showed how the extent of gregarization within a population increases with rising population size relative to food abundance and increasing concentration of food resources. Of particular interest was the emergence of critical zones across particular combinations of resource abundance, resource distribution and population size, where a solitarious population would rapidly gregarize. The model provided the basis for further laboratory and field experiments, which are described.
Ultraviolet radiation screening compounds
Authors: COCKELL CHARLES S. , KNOWLAND JOHN
Published: August 2010

Amongst the diversity of methods used by organisms to reduce damage caused by ultraviolet (UV) radiation, the synthesis of UV‐screening compounds is almost ubiquitous. UV‐screening compounds provide a passive method for the reduction of UV‐induced damage and they are widely distributed across the microbial, plant and animal kingdoms. They share some common chemical features. It is likely that on early earth strong selection pressures existed for the evolution of UV‐screening compounds. Many of these compounds probably had other physiological roles, later being selected for the efficacy of UV screening. The diversity in physiological functions is one of the complications in studying UV‐screening compounds and determining the true ecological importance of their UV‐screening role. As well as providing protection against ambient UV radiation, species with effective screening may also be at an advantage during natural ozone depletion events. In this review the characteristics of a wide diversity of UV‐screening compounds are discussed and evolutionary questions are explored. As research into the range of UV‐screening compounds represented in the biosphere continues, so it is likely that the properties of many more compounds will be elucidated. These compounds, as well as providing us with insights into natural responses to UV radiation, may also have implications for the development of artificial UV‐screening methods to reduce human exposure to UV radiation.
Genes and plant cell walls: a difficult relationship
Authors: WOJTASZEK PRZEMYSŁAW
Published: August 2010

Chemical information, carried by genes, is one of several types of information important for the functioning of cells and organisms. While genes govern the two‐dimensional flow of information, the cell walls are at the basis of a structural, three‐dimensional framework of plant form and growth. Recent data show the walls to be a cellular'organelle’ undergoing dynamic changes in response to a plethora of stimuli. In this review, an integrated approach, rooted in the organismal perspective, is taken to consider the role of cell walls in the biology of plants. First, the complexity of molecular and biochemical events leading to the biosynthesis of wall components is described within the framework of its spatial cellular organisation, and the major regulatory check‐points are characterised. Second, cell walls form a structural and functional continuum within the whole plant and thus could be defined in relation to the protoplasts that produce them and in relation to the plant itself. Model systems of suspension‐cultured cells are used to reveal the existence of a bidirectional exchange of information between the protoplast and its walls. The ‘plasticity’ of plant cell reactions, seen in defence responses or in changes in wall composition, to e.g. stress, plant growth regulators or chemical agents as well as the role of cell walls and/or wall components in somatic embryogenesis are also discussed. Third, being a continuum within the plant body, the walls fulfil vital functions in plant growth and development. The examples characterised include the determination of cellular polarity and the plane of cell division, cytokinesis, and the role of plasmodesmata in cell‐to‐cell communication and the formation of functional symplastic domains. Fourth, the exocellular control of morphogenetic processes is described and the potential of cell walls as determinants or reservoirs of positional information is indicated. Particular emphasis is put on the (bio)chemical signals coming through or derived from cell walls as well as the mechanical properties of the walls. Based on those data, the ‘plant body’ concept is formulated. The plant is thus treated as a unit filled with intertwining networks: (1) symplastic, (2) the endomembrane system and (3) cytoskeletal, with cell walls providing an architectural scaffolding and communication ports formed within (4) the cytoskeleton‐plasma membrane‐cell wall continuum.
The social organization of fish shoals: a test of the predictive power of laboratory experiments for the field
Authors: KRAUSE JENS , BUTLIN ROGER K. , PEUHKURI NINA , PRITCHARD VICTORIA L.
Published: August 2010

By contrast with a multitude of laboratory studies on the social organization of fish, relatively little is known about the size, composition and dynamics of free‐ranging fish shoals. We give an overview of the available information on fish shoals and assess to what degree the predictions made from laboratory studies are consistent with field data. The section on shoal choice behaviour in the laboratory is structured so that the evidence for different shoaling p is discussed in the context of their mechanisms and functions. Predictions based on experiments in captivity regarding p for conspecifics, individuals of similar body length and unparasitized fish were highly consistent with field observations on free‐ranging shoals whereas p for familiar conspecifics and kin remain to be conclusively demonstrated in the field. In general, there is a shortage of studies in which shoaling p have been investigated both in the laboratory and the field, and field studies have so far been largely descriptive revealing little about the underlying mechanisms of observed patterns. Given the great importance of fish shoals both in fundamental and applied research, an advancement of our knowledge of their social organization should significantly contribute to a better understanding of a whole range of topics including reciprocal altruism, group‐living and self‐organization.
Ethylene signal perception and transduction: multiple paradigms?
Authors: HALL M. A. , MOSHKOV I. E. , NOVIKOVA G. V. , MUR L. A. J. , SMITH A. R.
Published: August 2010

Current progress on the mechanisms of ethylene signal perception and transduction are reviewed with an emphasis on reconciling data from molecular genetics and from biochemical approaches. It is proposed that there exist two or more interacting transduction pathways.
Ossification patterns in the tetrapod limb – conservation and divergence from morphogenetic events
Authors: Fröbisch Nadia B.
Published: August 2010

Two different patterns of the condensation and chondrification of the limbs of tetrapods are known from extensive studies on their early skeletal development. These are on the one hand postaxial dominance in the sequential formation of skeletal elements in amniotes and anurans, and on the other, preaxial dominance in urodeles. The present study investigates the relative sequence of ossification in the fore‐ and hindlimbs of selected tetrapod taxa based on a literature survey in comparison to the patterns of early skeletal development, i.e. mesenchymal condensation and chondrification, representing essential steps in the late stages of tetrapod limb development. This reveals the degree of conservation and divergence of the ossification sequence from early morphogenetic events in the tetrapod limb skeleton. A step‐by‐step recapitulation of condensation and chondrification during the ossification of limbs can clearly be refuted. However, some of the deeper aspects of early skeletal patterning in the limbs, i.e. the general direction of development and sequence of digit formation are conserved, particularly in anamniotes. Amniotes show a weaker coupling of the ossification sequence in the limb skeleton with earlier condensation and chondrification events. The stronger correlation between the sequence of condensation/chondrification and ossification in the limbs of anamniotes may represent a plesiomorphic trait of tetrapods. The pattern of limb ossification across tetrapods also shows that some trends in the sequence of ossification of their limb skeleton are shared by major clades possibly representing phylogenetic signals.

This review furthermore concerns the ossification sequence of the limbs of the Palaeozoic temnospondyl amphibian Apateon sp. For the first time this is described in detail and its patterns are compared with those observed in extant taxa. Apateon sp. shares preaxial dominance in limb development with extant salamanders and the specific order of ossification events in the fore‐ and hindlimb of this fossil dissorophoid is almost identical to that of some modern urodeles.
Does Biology Need an Organism Concept?
Authors: Pepper John W. , Herron Matthew D.
Published: August 2010

Among biologists, there is no general agreement on exactly what entities qualify as ‘organisms’. Instead, there are multiple competing organism concepts and definitions. While some authors think this is a problem that should be corrected, others have suggested that biology does not actually need an organism concept. We argue that the organism concept is central to biology and should not be abandoned. Both organism concepts and operational definitions are useful. We review criteria used for recognizing organisms and conclude that they are not categorical but rather continuously variable. Different organism concepts are useful for addressing different questions, and it is important to be explicit about which is being used. Finally, we examine the origins of the derived state of organismality, and suggest that it may result from positive feedback between natural selection and functional integration in biological entities.
Chromosome conformation capture of transcriptional interactions between cytochrome c oxidase genes and genes of glutamatergic synaptic transmission in neurons
Authors: Dhar Shilpa S. , Wong‐Riley Margaret T. T.
Published: August 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 115, 676–683.

Neuronal activity and energy metabolism are tightly coupled processes. Recently, we found that nuclear respiratory factor 1 co‐regulates all subunits of cytochrome c oxidase (COX, representing oxidative energy metabolism) and glutamatergic neurochemicals, including NR1 (Grin1) and NR2B (Grin2b) of NMDA receptors, GluR2 (Gria2) of alpha‐amino‐3‐hydroxy‐5‐methyl‐4‐isoxazolepropionic acid receptors, and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (Nos1). Moreover, all 10 nuclear‐encoded COX subunit genes and three transcription factor genes for the three mitochondrial‐encoded COX subunits are transcribed in the same transcription factory. The goal of the present study was to test our hypothesis that genomic loci for Grin1, Grin2b, Gria2, and Nos1 interact with those for COX at the transcriptional level. By means of chromosome conformation capture, interactions were found among all of these genes in neurons, but not in C2C12 muscle cells. COX subunit genes also did not interact with neurochemical genes not regulated by nuclear respiratory factor 1, nor with genes for calreticulin, a non‐mitochondrial protein. Depolarizing stimulation up‐regulated interaction frequencies between COX and neurochemical genes, whereas impulse blockade with tetrodotoxin or inhibition of COX with KCN down‐regulated them in neurons. Thus, an efficient mechanism is in place for coordinating the transcriptional coupling of energy metabolism and glutamatergic neurotransmission at the molecular level in neurons.
The Cinnamon Ibon Hypocryptadius cinnamomeus is a forest canopy sparrow
Authors: FJELDSÅ JON , IRESTEDT MARTIN , ERICSON PER G. P. , ZUCCON DARIO
Published: August 2010

The Cinnamon Ibon inhabits the canopy of cloud‐forest of Mindanao Island in the Philippines, and has until now been classified as an aberrant member of the Zosteropidae (white‐eyes). We assessed the systematic position of this enigmatic species using DNA sequence data (two mitochondrial markers, two nuclear introns and two nuclear exons) and broad taxon sampling. The species was robustly placed among the granivorous passeroid clades, as a basal branch in the family of true sparrows, Passeridae. Morphological data lend further support, as the Cinnamon Ibon shows similar specialization of the skull as other granivorous passeroids. The species’ restricted distribution in the montane cloud‐forest of the island of Mindanao, which is of oceanic origin, is difficult to explain without assuming an over‐water dispersal event.
Compositional and Microchemical Evidence of Piezonuclear Fission Reactions in Rock Specimens Subjected to Compression Tests
Authors: Carpinteri A. , Chiodoni A. , Manuello A. , Sandrone R.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) is performed on different samples of external or fracture surfaces belonging to specimens used in piezonuclear tests [Strain 45, 2009, 332; Strain (in press); Phys. Lett. A. 373, 2009, 4158]. For each sample, different measurements of the same crystalline phases (phengite or biotite) are performed to obtain averaged information of the chemical composition and to detect possible piezonuclear transmutations from iron to lighter elements. The samples were carefully chosen to investigate and compare the same minerals both before and after the crushing failure. Phengite and biotite, which are quite common in the Luserna stone (20 and 2%, respectively), are considered owing to the high iron concentration in their chemical compositions. The results of EDS analyses show that, on the fracture surface samples, a considerable reduction in the iron content (∼25%) is counterbalanced by an increase in Al, Si, and Mg concentrations.
The Mechanical Properties of Caladium Petiole
Authors: Liou N.‐S. , Chen S.‐F. , Lu M.‐C.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  In this study, the mechanical properties of Caladium (Caladium × hortulanun Birdsey) petiole were investigated. The petiole was considered as a composite beam which consists of rind and core parts. To classify the mechanical properties of rind and core part of petioles, two‐phase three‐point bending tests were conducted on the specimens cut from petioles. Linear beam theory was used to convert the time‐dependent bending forces, during the three‐point bending tests, to relaxation moduli. The result shows that the mechanical properties of rind and core parts of Caladium are very different. The relaxation modulus of rind is approximate 40 times higher than relaxation modulus of core at time = 600 s after applying bending load, and the relaxation time distribution of core is wider than the relaxation time distribution of core. The three‐ and seven‐parameter linear viscoelastic constitutive models were used to describe the time‐dependent relaxation moduli of rind and core of caladium petiole. The fitted results show that the seven‐parameter Wiechert model can describe the viscoelastic behaviour of Caladium petiole very well. The finite element analysis was used to assess the error of this test methodology. The reaction force error because of the tapered diameter of specimens is about 12%.
Syntheses of polymeric dispersants for pigmented ink‐jet inks
Authors: Yoon Chun , Choi Jae‐hong
Published: August 2010

Drop‐on‐demand ink‐jet inks made from dyes usually show poor light fastness and poor water fastness. Therefore, many researchers have introduced pigments into ink‐jet inks to overcome the defects of dye‐based ink. Pigmented ink needs sophisticated technology which disperses the pigments stably in low viscosity. Thus, adequate dispersants are essential to achieve stable dispersions of pigments for ink‐jet inks. This study describes syntheses of dispersants, properties of formulations and comparisons of performance with an existing ink to assess their suitability for commercial application.
3‐Hydroxy‐2‐[1′‐phenyl‐3′‐(p‐chlorophenyl)‐4′‐pyrazolyl]‐4‐oxo‐4H‐1‐benzopyran as a spectrophotometric reagent for trace determination of tungsten(vi)
Authors: Agnihotri R. , Kamal R. , Agnihotri N. , Mehta J. R.
Published: August 2010

3‐Hydroxy‐2‐[1′‐phenyl‐3′‐(p‐chlorophenyl)‐4′‐pyrazolyl]‐4‐oxo‐4H‐1‐benzopyran solution in acetone forms a yellow‐coloured complex with tungsten(vi) in perchloric acid medium which is extractable into chloroform after equilibration. In this study, tests were carried out on this compound and it was found to be quite stable and to obey Beer’s law. Interactions with various ions were studied and the molar absorptivity, Sandell’s sensitivity and relative standard deviation were also investigated. Job’s method, the mole ratio method and the equilibrium‐shift method were also used. The ratio of metal to ligand was measured using a method that was simpler, more accurate, sensitive, rapid and selective as compared with existing methods. This method is applicable to the analysis of various samples of varied composition.
Generation of virtual illuminants for a balanced colorimetric match
Authors: Agahian Farnaz , Amirshahi Seyed Hossein
Published: August 2010

Colorimetric matching is employed under a series of virtual illuminants to produce more controllable and equalised colour‐difference results under multiple illuminants. A method based on weighted principal component analysis of different artificial lights and the weighted mean is used to create a series of virtual illuminants. The weights were selected in a manner to create the virtual illuminants that benefit from the impact of a given illuminant, while the effects of other light sources on the formation of desired illuminants were also considered. The generated virtual illuminants were implemented in a colorimetric colour‐matching trial. Using this method, by choosing suitable weights for different lighting conditions, more balanced colour‐difference values were presented in the data set than was expected. The advantages of the suggested method were evaluated by the matching of a collection of 135 woollen samples under different virtual illuminants.
Analysis of the wetting behaviour of pigments and the effectiveness of surfactants
Authors: Joshi Amit , Rathi Sahas , Deshpande Suhas
Published: August 2010

A new test method is introduced to analyse the wetting behaviour of pigments and the effectiveness of surfactants. The method involves the study of torque vs time curves obtained during the wetting of pigments by surfactant solutions. These curves provide valuable information regarding the wetting behaviour of pigments and the ability of the surfactant to wet the pigment. To study the wetting behaviour, two pigments which varied widely in their surface character are studied with the same surfactant, while, to study the effectiveness of the surfactant, different surfactants with differing polarity are studied using the same pigment. The results are found to be consistent with the theoretical expectations.
Synthesis, absorption spectra studies, solvatochromism and halochromism of polymethine cyanine dyes
Authors: Shindy H A , El‐Maghraby M A , Eissa Fayez M
Published: August 2010

New polymethine cyanine dyes, including tetramethine and bis‐tetramethine cyanine dyes derived from benzo[2,3‐b;2′,3′‐b′]bis‐pyrazolo[4,5‐b]‐1,4‐(oxa‐, thia‐ and pyra‐)‐zine‐6,12‐dione, were synthesised. Absorption spectra for all the synthesised cyanine dyes were examined in 95% ethanol. The solvatochromism and halochromism for some selected dyes were investigated in pure solvents and in aqueous universal buffer solutions, respectively. Structural confirmations were carried out through elemental and spectroscopic analysis.
Mechanism of photoprotection of wool with formaldehyde and thiol derivatives
Authors: Millington Keith R , Maurdev George , Jones Michael J
Published: August 2010

The application of thiourea and formaldehyde offers significant reductions in photoyellowing for natural, bleached and fluorescent‐brightened wools. We have examined the use of alternative thiol derivates to thiourea and shown that a mixture of N‐acetylcysteine and formaldehyde is similarly effective. Photo‐induced chemiluminescence studies on treated wool fabrics show that the intensity of chemiluminescence following a brief exposure to ultraviolet A radiation is reduced for wool treated with thiourea and formaldehyde, N‐acetylcysteine–formaldehyde and thiourea dioxide–formaldehyde, but not for formaldehyde alone. This demonstrates that a lower population of free radicals is formed in irradiated thiol‐derivative formaldehyde‐treated wools because of free radical scavenging by the sulphur‐containing species. This free radical scavenging results in reduced photoyellowing. The effect of thiourea and formaldehyde treatment on the intrinsic fluorescence of wool is significantly different to N‐acetylcysteine–formaldehyde. Thiourea and formaldehyde quenches tryptophan fluorescence relative to untreated wool, whereas N‐acetylcysteine–formaldehyde treatment results in an increase in intensity probably because of a reduction in disulphide quenching.
A study of novel bisazo reactive red dyes with good wet fastness
Authors: Wang Zhuan , Wu Zu‐Wang
Published: August 2010

Three series of bisazo reactive red dyes were synthesised using 6‐amino‐1‐naphthol‐3‐sulphonic acid and its derivatives as the coupling components. The dyeing parameters and wash fastness of these dyes on knitted cotton were evaluated and the relationships between the structure and dyeing properties were investigated. It was found that the hydrophilic groups introduced into the dye molecules decrease the substantivity and fixation of the dyes, but increase the build‐up and migration properties. The defined wash‐off factor can directly reflect the wash fastness of the dyes and the build‐up property can be improved by commercialisation using certain auxiliaries. The results indicate that there is the possibility of synthesising a red reactive dye with a satisfying balance between high fixation and good wash fastness and several such dyes have been developed.
Effect of enzyme treatment and dyeing on the mechanical properties of linen
Authors: Kan C W , Yuen C W M , Lam Y L
Published: August 2010

In this paper, different concentrations of cellulase enzyme were used for treating linen fabrics. The pretreated linen fabrics were dyed using a bifunctional reactive dye at various concentrations. The effect of enzyme treatment, together with the dyeing process on the low‐stress mechanical properties of the linen fabric, was then investigated. The low‐stress mechanical properties were assessed quantitatively, including the tensile, shearing, bending, compression and surface properties of the enzyme‐treated and dyed linen fabrics. The results revealed that the enzyme treatment with subsequent dyeing could alter these properties to a greater extent, depending predominantly on the concentration of enzyme used.
Influence of different finishing conditions on the wet fastness of selected disperse dyes on polylactic acid fabrics
Authors: Avinc Ozan , Phillips Duncan , Wilding Mike
Published: August 2010

This study investigates the influence of different finishing conditions on the amount of thermal migration and the wet fastness properties of selected red disperse dyes on polylactic acid fabrics. A comparison was made with a correspondingly finished polyethyleneterephthalate fabric, with a specific objective being to identify the conditions that would give optimum wet fastness to the polylactic acid fabric. A greater thermal migration of dye was observed on the polylactic acid compared with polyethyleneterephthalate fabric under the same heat treatment conditions, resulting in a lower level of wet fastness. The lowering in wet fastness of dyed polylactic acid fabric on processing occurs mainly as a result of thermal migration of disperse dyes during the drying stage at 110 °C.
Colour constancy based on texture similarity for natural images
Authors: Li Bing , Xu De , Lang Congyan
Published: August 2010

Colour constancy is a classical problem in computer vision. Although there are a number of colour constancy algorithms based on different assumptions, none of them can be considered as universal. How to select or combine these available methods for different natural image characteristics is an important problem. Recent studies have shown that the texture feature is an important factor to consider when selecting the best colour constancy algorithm for a certain image. In this paper, Weibull parameterisation is used to identify the texture characteristics of colour images. According to the texture similarity, the best colour constancy method (or best combination of methods) is selected out for a specific image. The experiments were carried out on a large data set and the results show that this new approach outperforms current state‐of‐the‐art single algorithms, as well as some combined algorithms.
Spectral characterisation and computational studies of some novel phenylazoindol‐2‐one dyes
Authors: Seferoğlu Zeynel , Aktan Ebru , Ertan Nermin
Published: August 2010

A series of novel phenylazo disperse dyes were prepared by coupling selected diazotised 3‐ or 4‐anilines with indol‐2‐one. The structures of the synthesised dyes were determined by spectroscopic and analytical methods. Solvent effects on the ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra of these novel dyes were studied. The colour of the dyes was evaluated with respect to the substituent therein. Acid and base effects on the visible absorption maxima of the dyes were also reported. The tautomerism of 3‐(phenyldiazenyl)indol‐2‐one was modelled by density functional theory at the B3LYP level. The ultraviolet–visible absorption spectra for the tautomers were reproduced with the time‐dependent density functional theory and semi‐empirical Zerner’s intermediate neglect of differential overlap/spectroscopic (ZINDO/S) method. The predominance of the keto–hydrazone tautomer was confirmed experimentally and theoretically.
Natural colorant from the bark of Macaranga peltata: kinetic and adsorption studies on silk
Authors: Vinod Konaghatta Narayanachar , Puttaswamy  , Ninge Gowda Kurikempanadoddi Ningegowda , Sudhakar Rajagopal
Published: August 2010

The colour component from the bark of Macaranga peltata has been extracted and, using spectral techniques, the main colouring ingredient has been identified as ellagic acid. The dyeing properties of the extract on silk have been studied. The colour coordinates of the dyed samples were found to be in the yellow–red quadrant of the colour space diagram and the dyed samples exhibited acceptable fastness properties. The effect of temperature and dye concentration on the rate of dyeing has been studied. Adsorption studies revealed that the process fits well with the Langmuir isotherm model. The thermodynamic parameters of the dyeing process have been evaluated using an Arrhenius plot. The experimental results revealed that the adsorption was exothermic and spontaneous in nature, and exhibited first‐order kinetics. Further, the effect of electrolyte on rate of dyeing has also been recorded. The rate of adsorption increases as the disrupting effect of the added electrolyte cation increases and follows the order: Al3+ > Ca2+ > Na+.
The Birth Was Normal — But is the Baby?
Authors: Phibbs Roderic H.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: The group of babies at lowest risk for neonatal problems have experienced a significant drop in morbidity and mortality since neonatology began in the 1960's. Up to 50% of such low‐risk babies develop jaundice which requires treatment. ABO hemolytic disease and polycythemia affect 5% and 3% of full‐term babies, respectively. Congenital malformations occur in about 1–2% of term newborns, and infection will be found in 2–5 babies per thousand. Because infections can be life‐threatening and the symptoms are vague in newborns, we do from 25 to 40 septic work‐ups for every one infection confirmed.

Handling the high risk mother whose infant needs diagnostic or treatment procedures is easier than handling the shocked mother who expected a normal outcome according to Dr. Phibbs. It is better to give a simple statement of what is being done, and why, than to give technical explanations. Because of the adaptability of human mothers and infants, we find that separation of mothers and infants for common procedures does not interfere with bonding.
Is Neonatal Special Care Overused?
Authors: Richards M.P.M.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Among the health regions of Britain, admissions to special care baby units (SCBUs) vary from 15% to 27% of live born children. These variations in admission rates do not correlate with the percentage of low birth‐weight babies born in each region, nor with the perinatal mortality rate. However, they correlate positively with the provision of cots for special newborn care and with how close the baby was to such a facility when born. A large number of full‐term babies are admitted with no disease, but simply for observation. These babies come predominately from deliveries in consultant obstetric units which also have SCBUs, so that admissions for observation are most probable for the group of babies receiving the highest standards of care and therefore are least in need of it. Some of the disadvantages of unnecessary admissions are described.

A change in admission policy at one SCBU resulted in the number of full‐term babies admitted to SCBU dropping from 928 in 1972 to 163 in 1975. The effects of pressures to fill the cots in such units, of competition between units, and of other factors influencing admission are discussed.
The Economics of Intensive Care for the Full‐Term Newborn
Authors: Shearer Madeleine H.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: The nursery and labor/delivery unit have long been loss leaders in hospital accounting. However, Medicaid, Crippled (or Handicapped) Children's Services, Blue Cross and Blue Shield will make very high payments for intensive fetal and neonatal care. As a result, there was an increase of 18% in the number of neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) between 1977 and 1978, and a concomitant reduction in newborn nursery space.

Because a large number of NICU beds, and a 75% occupancy rate, are required by local and professional standards, in order to fill NICU beds normal or very mildly sick full‐term newborns are being admitted. The number of tests and treatments were found to be lowest after rotation of residents in August, and to increase monthly until they rotated out in June. Of full‐term newborns, 18% were treated for jaundice and/or given septic work‐ups at one Level II hospital. At another, the same percent of babies was admitted to the NICU from the alternative birth center (ABC) as from the labor/delivery unit, despite figures indicating that the ABC babies had better outcomes on all parameters.
Which Protect Against Neonatal Morbidity: Focus on Maternal Position in Labor and Birth
Authors: Camacho Carr Katherine
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: The recumbent positions for labor and lithotomy position for birth serve the needs of the attendant rather than the needs of the woman and fetus. Various upright positions have been chosen for birth in most cultures. The advantages of upright and ambulant positions, with full mobility during labor, include avoidance of supine hypotension, aortic and uterine artery compression, cord compression FHR patterns, and inefficient contractions which are more painful. A birth stool or chair allows mothers to push more effectively and to use the great elasticity of the pelvis during delivery.
Modifying Practices to Promote Family‐Centered Care in the Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery
Authors: Sniderman Susan
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: The Alternative Birth Center (ABC) practice and outcomes at Mount Zion Hospital are described and compared to those in the regular labor and delivery area. In the ABC there were fewer cesareans, better Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes, less use of analgesia and anesthesia, but no significant difference in admissions of babies to the newborn intensive care nursery. The ABC has helped to make more flexible some of the newborn procedures. Several case histories are presented which illustrate ways that such care can be provided while responding appropriately to parents’concerns.
Future Directions in the Care of the Full‐Term Newborn
Authors: Snyder David M.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Babies’abilities to achieve mutual gaze with their caregivers, to find the breast and nurse successfully, and to be comforted, are powerful releasers of parental warmth and attachment. Any complication in the newborn period which alters babies’opportunity to achieve reciprocity places the parent‐infant system at risk. Our knowledge of the psychosocial consequences of newborn care practices is as vital as knowledge of purely biological and physical sciences. We must reshape our care of newborns in light of what we know now about the opportunities and vulnerabilities inherent in the first days of the infant's life.
Hypnosis in Reproductive Health Care: A Review and Case Reports
Authors: Baram David A.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Hypnosis has many applications in the field of reproductive health care. This paper describes its use in the treatment of sexual dysfunction, urinary incontinence, chronic pelvic pain, hyperemesis gravidarum, and pain relief in labor and delivery. Four case reports are used for illustration. Misconceptions about the risks and benefits of hypnosis are discussed. Information about training for clinicians in hypnosis is described.
Meta‐analysis of the Safety of Home Birth
Authors: Olsen Ole
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: The safety of planned home birth is controversial. This study examined the safety of planned home birth backed up by a modern hospital system compared with planned hospital birth in the Western world. Methods: A meta‐analysis of six controlled observational studies was conducted, and the perinatal outcomes of 24,092 selected and primarily low‐risk pregnant women were analyzed to measure mortality and morbidity, including Apgar scores, maternal lacerations, and intervention rates. Confounding was controlled through restriction, matching, or in the statistical analysis. Results: Perinatal mortality was not significantly different in the two groups (OR = 0.87, 95% CI 0.54–1.41). The principal difference in the outcome was a lower frequency of low Apgar scores (OR = 0.55; 0.41–0.74) and severe lacerations (OR = 0.61; 0.54–0.83) in the home birth group. Fewer medical interventions occurred in the home birth group: induction (statistically significant ORs in the range 0.06–0.39), augmentation (0.26–0.69), episiotomy (0.02–0.39), operative vaginal birth (0.03–0.42), and cesarean section (0.05–0.31). No maternal deaths occurred in the studies. Some differences may be partly due to bias. The findings regarding morbidity are supported by randomized clinical trials of elements of birth care relevant for home birth, however, and the finding relating to mortality is supported by large register studies comparing hospital settings of different levels of care. Conclusion: Home birth is an acceptable alternative to hospital confinement for selected pregnant women, and leads to reduced medical interventions.
What Do Women Want to Know After Childbirth?
Authors: Moran Caroline Farbman , Holt Victoria L. , Martin Diane P.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: Postpartum women have demonstrated a variety of health care concerns. This study, conducted in Washington state in 1991, investigated predictors of primiparas' and multiparas' desire to receive more information about 18 self‐care and baby care topics at 7 weeks postpartum in relation to prenatal class attendance, short postpartum hospital stay, and other variables. Methods: Data from 1161 women who completed a survey were analyzed. Percentages of women desiring more information on each topic were calculated stratified by parity: mean numbers of chosen health topics were calculated in relation to prenatal education, length of postpartum hospitalization, maternal age, education, social support, and type of delivery; and associations between desire for more information on specific topics and length of postpartum hospitalization, maternal age, maternal education, and social support were calculated. Results: Over three‐fourths of women wanted more information on at least one topic, and the highest percentage wanted more information on exercise, diet, and nutrition; getting along with their other children; and recognizing infant illness. Primiparas and multiparas who desired more information were under 25 years of age and had low levels of social support; in addition, multiparas with unmet information needs had low education and short postpartum stays. Prenatal education was unrelated to postpartum desire for more information. Conclusion: Most postpartum women want self‐care and baby care information, a need that is not completely met by prenatal or postpartum education. Postpartum follow‐up programs with a strong educational component and special targeting of high‐risk women may enable health caregivers to better address this need.