bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of induced subacute ruminal acidosis on milk fat content and milk fatty acid profile
Authors: Enjalbert F. , Videau Y. , Nicot M. C. , Troegeler‐Meynadier A.
Published: February 2008

Two lactating dairy cows fitted with a rumen cannula received successively diets containing 0%, 20%, 34% and again 0% of wheat on a dry matter basis. After 5, 10 and 11 days, ruminal pH was measured between 8:00 and 16:00 hours, and milk was analysed for fat content and fatty acid profile. Diets with 20% and 34% wheat induced a marginal and a severe subacute ruminal acidosis respectively. After 11 days, diets with wheat strongly reduced the milk yield and milk fat content, increased the proportions of C8:0 to C13:0 even‐ or odd‐chain fatty acids, C18:2 n‐6 and C18:3 n‐3 fatty acids but decreased the proportions of C18:0 and cis‐9 C18:1 fatty acids. Wheat also increased the proportions of trans‐5 to trans‐10 C18:1, the latter exhibiting a 10‐fold increase with 34% of wheat compared with value during the initial 0% wheat period. There was also an increase of trans‐10, cis‐12 C18:2 fatty acid and a decrease of trans‐11 to trans‐16 C18:1 fatty acids. The evolution during adaptation or after return to a 0% wheat diet was rapid for pH but much slower for the fatty acid profile. The mean ruminal pH was closely related to milk fat content, the proportion of odd‐chain fatty acids (linear relationship) and the ratio of trans‐10 C18:1/trans‐11 C18:1 (nonlinear relationship). Such changes in fatty acid profile suggested a possible use for non‐invasive diagnosis of subacute ruminal acidosis.
Prefertilization barriers to interspecific hybridization involving Gossypium hirsutum and four diploid wild species
Authors: Ganesh Ram S. , Hari Ramakrishnan S. , Thiruvengadam V. , Kannan Bapu J. R.
Published: February 2008

Interspecific hybridization among species of cotton has lead to improvement in productivity, earliness, fibre quality and resistance to pests and diseases. However, wide crosses is often limited by the operation of either pre‐ or/and post‐fertilization barriers. An investigation on pollen tube behaviour of four wild species in the pistils of Gossypium hirsutum was taken up. Pollen germination was normal in crosses involving Gossypium triphyllum and Gossypium armourianum and markedly inhibited in the crosses involving Gossypium davidsonii and Gossypium thurberi. Pollen tubes reached the pistils and fertilization was accomplished within 8 h after pollination (HAP) in control cross. Even though delay in pollen tube was a common phenomenon in all the four crosses successful fertilization was observed in crosses involving G. triphyllum and G. armourianum, as they reached the ovary at 24 HAP. In crosses with G. davidsonii and G. thurberi, pollen tubes failed to reach the ovary even at 24 HAP indicating the presence of strong stylar and ovarian incompatibility. Measures to overcome such barriers to interspecific hybridization in the incompatible crosses are discussed.
Street children and their relationship with the police
Authors: Ribeiro M.O.
Published: February 2008

Background:  This paper explores and analyses the experiences of school‐age street children. It specifically addresses the relationship of the street children who live on the streets of São Paulo (a large Brazilian metropolis), in relation to their experiences, with the policemen.

Methods:  The paper is a secondary analysis of date previously collected in 1999. The data were collected through individual semi‐structured interviews, with 14 school‐age children frequenting two city public refuges, with their legal guardians' consent. The text from transcribed interviews was organized according to the validity norms of ‘thematic analysis’, a technique of contents analysis method. The decomposing and reconstructing process of that analysis gave rise to thematic categories (among which ‘the police category’) that represented the reconstruction of the difficulties faced by the children in their development.

Results and discussion:  The children portrayed the police as an enemy, a fearful figure and one of the most agonizing street experiences. Rarely did the police have a positive image to them. According to the children, police violence occurs in three forms: through systematic police persecution in an effort to remove the children from the streets against their will; actions that had the deliberate intent to humiliate them with verbal or physical aggression; and through alleged sexual abuse, revealed by the children in a veiled manner. The authority that is supposedly intended to protect them is portrayed as one of the most feared social agents.

Conclusion:  The reported hostile behaviour of the policemen shows the state of vulnerability of those children living on the street. This situation must be focused like a health problem because it causes injury to development of children. Nurses can help them through organizing assistance to children in situation of personal and social risk in the school nursing and health institution.
Strange success
Authors: Cable Daniel
Published: February 2008

Daniel Cable offers an unusual approach to make your company stand out in the eyes of your customers.
Certified value sellers
Authors: Anderson James C. , Kumar Nirmalya , Narus James A.
Published: February 2008

Some companies think that offering deep discounts to buyers is the only way to sell their products in business markets. James Anderson, Nirmalya Kumar and James Narus propose a better way.
The shape of leadership to come
Authors: Rao Srikumar S.
Published: February 2008

Are the leaders of today's firms changing to meet the future needs of the marketplace?Srikumar Rao has been asking students what they see as the essential attributes of tomorrow's leader. Their answers may surprise you.
Boards of deflectors
Authors: Crainer Stuart , Dearlove Des
Published: February 2008

Most corporate boards seem either disinterested in constructive conflict or content with being cordial though dysfunctional. Stuart Crainer and Des Dearlove argue that such behaviour not only creates weak boards, it also spawns flaccid companies.
Incorporating Maintenance Effectiveness in the Estimation of Dynamic Infrastructure Performance Models
Authors: Chu Chih‐Yuan , Durango‐Cohen Pablo L.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  We show how intervention analysis can be used in conjunction with dynamic performance modeling to analyze the effect of maintenance activities on the performance of infrastructure facilities. Specifically, we consider state‐space specifications of autoregressive moving averages with exogenous inputs models to develop deterioration and inspection models for infrastructure facilities, and intervention analysis to estimate transitory and permanent effects of maintenance, for example, performance jumps or deterioration rate changes. To illustrate the methodology, we analyze the effectiveness of an overlay on a flexible pavement section from the AASHO Road Test. The results show the effect of the overlay on improvements both on surface distress, that is, rutting and slope variance, as well as on the pavement's underlying serviceability. The results also provide evidence that the overlay changes the pavement's response to traffic, that is, the overlay causes a reduction in the rate at which traffic damages the pavement.
DEMOCRACY AND GLOBALIZATION
Authors: EICHENGREEN BARRY , LEBLANG DAVID
Published: February 2008

The relationship between democracy and globalization has been a subject of both scholarly and policy debate. Some argue that the two go hand in hand – that unrestricted international transactions encourage political accountability and transparency and that politically free societies are least likely to restrict the mobility of goods and services. But others argue that democracies, in which special interests that suffer from foreign competition have voice, are more likely to have closed markets, and vice versa. Our analysis differs from its predecessors in three ways. We seek to uncover general patterns by considering as long a period as possible and all countries with the relevant data. We consider multiple dimensions of globalization, analyzing both trade liberalization and capital account liberalization. And we estimate these relationships using an instrumental variables strategy that allows us to confront the issue of simultaneity. Our findings support the existence of positive relationships between democracy and globalization.
How many potential prey species account for the bulk of the diet of mammalian predators? Implications for stable isotope paleodietary analyses
Authors: Pérez‐Claros J. A. , Palmqvist P.
Published: February 2008

Stable isotopes are useful tools for estimating the relative contribution of different prey to the diet of an extinct predator. Several approaches have been proposed for quantifying these contributions as percentages, but the linear mixing models provide the most reliable estimates. However, these models only yield unique solutions if the number of analyzed isotopes is equal to the number of dietary sources minus one. If stable isotopes from bone collagen (δ13C, δ15N) are used, this implies that a maximum of three prey must account for the bulk of the predator's diet. Here we show that this requirement holds only for the five extant hypercarnivorous canids and probably also for the cheetah (a cursor) and the lynxes among felids, because for these species the dietary contribution of prey sources in terms of biomass is, on average, equal or higher than 55% for the first, 20% for the second and around 10% for the third. However, five to seven prey species account for the bulk of the diet of most stalking felids and also for those omnivorous canids that are not pack hunters. The conclusion is that the linear mixing models will only provide well‐defined solutions using two isotopic ratios in the dietary reconstruction of extinct hypercarnivorous canids, which tend to rely very heavily on only three prey, and probably also in extremely specialized felids with cursorial adaptations or living in temperate habitats.
Strong immune function: a benefit promoting the evolution of sociality?
Authors: Lutermann H. , Bennett N. C.
Published: February 2008

Life‐history theory suggests that breeding effort leads to lowered subsequent fecundity and survival. Immunity is a major physiological mechanism regulating survival and trade‐offs between reproductive effort and immune function may be expected. In cooperatively breeding species, breeders may benefit from non‐breeders that perform energetically costly tasks by increased survival. However, this has never been related to immune function. In mammals trade‐offs between reproductive effort and immune function are likely to be mediated through energy that can be stored in adipose tissue. We compared fat mass and immune function measured as spleen mass between breeders and non‐breeders and among the sexes in cooperatively breeding Natal mole‐rats Cryptomys hottentotus natalensis. Assuming that larger spleen size indicates a stronger immune function, we hypothesized that reproductive effort leads to reduced energy stores and thus smaller spleen mass in breeders and expected females to have a larger fat and spleen mass than males. We could establish a relationship between energy stores and spleen mass but found the expected sex‐specific difference only in breeders. Spleen mass was similar between breeders and non‐breeders. The energy cost of reproduction may be compensated for by the contribution of non‐breeders in this cooperative breeder. We suggest that non‐breeders reduce work loads for breeders and thereby allow breeders a higher investment in immune function that may result in improved survival. This could also explain increased survival in mole‐rats and possibly other cooperative vertebrates.
Variation in body size and metamorphic traits of Iberian spadefoot toads over a short geographic distance
Authors: Marangoni F. , Tejedo M.
Published: February 2008

Determinants of geographic variation in body size are often poorly understood, especially in organisms with complex life cycles. We examined patterns of adult body size and metamorphic traits variation in Iberian spadefoot toad (Pelobates cultripes) populations, which exhibit an extreme reduction in adult body size, 71.6% reduction in body mass, within just about 30 km at south‐western Spain. We hypothesized that size at and time to metamorphosis would be predictive of the spatial pattern observed in adult body size. Larvae from eight populations were raised in a common garden experiment at two different larval densities that allow to differentiate whether population divergence was genetically based or was simply a reflection of environmental variation and, in addition, whether this population divergence was modulated by differing crowding larval environments. Larger adult size populations had higher larval growth rates, attaining larger sizes at metamorphosis, and exhibited higher survival than smaller‐sized populations at both densities, although accentuated at a low larval density. These population differences appeared to be consistent once embryo size variation was controlled for, suggesting that this phenotypic divergence is not due to maternal effects. Our results suggest considerable genetic differentiation in metamorphic traits that parallels and may be a causal determinant of geographic variation in adult body size.
An integrative approach to specialization: relationships among feeding morphology, mechanics, behaviour, performance and diet in two syntopic snakes
Authors: Mori A. , Vincent S. E.
Published: February 2008

Theoretically, dietary specialists should be morphologically, behaviourally and physiologically specialized to feed efficiently on a subset of the available prey. Yet, relatively few studies have actually tested each of these links in specialist predators, especially in terrestrial vertebrates. We address this issue here by comparing the relationships among feeding morphology, mechanics, swallowing duration and realized diet for a dietary generalist versus a specialist snake when feeding on seasonally abundant frog prey in syntopy. Previous work has shown that the dietary generalist (Elaphe quadrivirgata) consumes both frogs and hard‐bodied prey such as lizards and snakes, whereas the specialist (Rhabdophis tigrinus) feeds primarily on bulky frogs. We thus predicted that the generalist should have a higher bite force to better manipulate hard‐bodied prey, and the specialist should have a larger gape to better handle bulky frogs. Second, we predicted that the increased gape in the specialist should lead to shorter swallowing times and to larger consumed frog sizes in nature. As predicted, the specialist had relatively larger gapes and the generalist had relatively higher potential bite forces, and the specialist swallowed frogs faster than the generalist. Furthermore, field data showed that adult females of the specialist consumed significantly larger frogs than the generalist in syntopy. Overall, this study shows that dietary specialization is tightly linked to phenotypic specialization in a terrestrial vertebrate predator.
Predictors of male residence patterns in groups of black howler monkeys
Authors: Jones C. B. , Milanov V. , Hager R.
Published: February 2008

Males may share access to fertilizable females (polygynandry) in one environment while, under other conditions, polygynous (one‐male or ‘harem’) mating is the norm. However, few studies in mammals have empirically investigated the factors predicting when males will coexist in bisexual reproductive units rather than live in one‐male associations with females. We examined patterns of male group membership in a population of black howler monkeys Alouatta pigra residing in two habitats (deciduous and riparian) of a tropical moist forest environment in Belize, Central America. Using general linear and logistic regression modeling, we evaluated nine variables as possible predictors of male residence patterns (one‐male groups or multimale groups). Our results suggest that adult sex ratio and group size are the best predictors of male residence patterns in both habitats. Our findings provide empirical support for theoretical expectations that male reproductive strategies will be a function of habitat‐related demographic patterns and the subsequently varying potential of males to monopolize females in heterogeneous regimes. This study may have important implications for our understanding of features of mammalian societies in which males compete directly for access to females.
Electrophysiological correlates of direct selection by color
Authors: Vierck Esther , Miller Jeff
Published: February 2008

We report an experiment using event‐related potentials (ERPs) to study selection by color uncontaminated from selection by location. Participants monitored an RSVP sequence for a given target letter that could appear in upper‐ or lowercase. Prior to the sequence, a cue indicated the most likely color of the target letter. Replicating E. Vierck and J. Miller (2005), upper‐/lowercase discrimination accuracy was higher following valid than invalid color cues. Within the ERPs, the target onset produced a negative component between 150 and 350 ms at occipital sites, with shorter latencies following valid than invalid cues. We also found larger amplitude components for valid than invalid color cues at central and parietal sites between 150 and 325 ms. The results not only demonstrate clear effects of color cuing on both behavior and ERPs but also suggest that the observed ERP differences between valid versus invalid trials mediate the behavioral effects.
Teenager–peer interaction and its contribution to a family purchase decision: the mediating role of enduring product involvement
Authors: El Aoud Nibrass Hajtaïeb , Neeley Sabrina M.
Published: February 2008

The influencing roles of teenager–peer interaction and enduring product involvement on a teen's contribution to a family purchase decision are examined using survey data from 1008 Tunisian teens. Results demonstrate that enduring product involvement mediates the relationship between teenager–peer interaction and the teenager's contribution. A structural equation model with supporting Bootstrap procedure is presented. Implications, limitations and suggestions for future research are discussed.
Interleukin‐1β up‐regulates TACE to enhance α‐cleavage of APP in neurons: resulting decrease in Aβ production
Authors: Tachida Yuriko , Nakagawa Kazuhiro , Saito Takashi , Saido Takaomi C. , Honda Takashi , Saito Yuko , Murayama Shigeo , Endo Tamao , Sakaguchi Gaku , Kato Akira , Kitazume Shinobu , Hashimoto Yasuhiro
Published: February 2008

The proinflammatory cytokine interleukin (IL)‐1β is up‐regulated in microglial cells surrounding amyloid plaques, leading to the hypothesis that IL‐1β is a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease. However, we unexpectedly found that IL‐1β significantly enhanced α‐cleavage, indicated by increases in sAPPα and C83, but reduced β‐cleavage, indicated by decreases in sAPPβ and Aβ40/42, in human neuroblastoma SK‐N‐SH cells. IL‐1β did not significantly alter the mRNA levels of BACE1, ADAM‐9, and ADAM‐10, but up‐regulated that of TACE by threefold. The proform and mature form of TACE protein were also significantly up‐regulated. A TACE inhibitor (TAPI‐2) concomitantly reversed the IL‐1β‐dependent increase in sAPPα and decrease in sAPPβ, suggesting that APP consumption in the α‐cleavage pathway reduced its consumption in the β‐cleavage pathway. IL‐1Ra, a physiological antagonist for the IL‐1 receptor, reversed the effects of IL‐1β, suggesting that the IL‐1β‐dependent up‐regulation of α‐cleavage is mediated by the IL‐1 receptor. IL‐1β also induced this concomitant increase in α‐cleavage and decrease in β‐cleavage in mouse primary cultured neurons. Taken together we conclude that IL‐1β is an anti‐amyloidogenic factor, and that enhancement of its signaling or inhibition of IL‐1Ra activity could represent potential therapeutic strategies against Alzheimer’s disease.
Physiological regulation of tau phosphorylation during hibernation
Authors: Su Bo , Wang Xinglong , Drew Kelly L. , Perry George , Smith Mark A. , Zhu Xiongwei
Published: February 2008

The microtubule‐associated protein tau is abnormally hyperphosphorylated in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer disease and other tauopathies, and is believed to play a critical role in the pathogenesis of these diseases. While the mechanisms leading to abnormal tau phosphorylation remain elusive, the recent demonstration of reversible tau phosphorylation during hibernation provides an ideal physiological model to study this critical processin vivo. In this study, arctic ground squirrels (AGS) during hibernation were used to study mechanisms related to tau hyperphosphorylation. Our data demonstrate that tau is hyperphosphorylated at all six sites (S199, T205, S214, S262, S396, and S404) examined in hibernating AGS. Interestingly, only three of these sites (S199, S262, and S404) are dephosphorylated in aroused animals, suggesting a reversible phosphorylation at selective sites. Summer‐active AGS demonstrated the lowest tau phosphorylation at all these sites. To explore the mechanisms underlying increased tau phosphorylation during hibernation, the expression level and enzyme activity of various potential tau kinases and protein phosphatases were examined. The kinetic analysis of enzyme activity at different temperatures revealed differential changes in enzyme activity with temperature decline. Specifically, increased protein kinase A activity, decreased protein phosphatase 2A activity, as well as substantial contribution from glycogen synthase kinase‐3β, likely play a key role in increased tau phosphorylation during hibernation in AGS.
Increased APLP1 expression and neurodegeneration in the frontal cortex of manganese‐exposed non‐human primates
Authors: Guilarte Tomás R. , Burton Neal C. , Verina Tatyana , Prabhu Vinaykumar V. , Becker Kevin G. , Syversen Tore , Schneider Jay S.
Published: February 2008

Chronic manganese (Mn) exposure produces a neurological syndrome with psychiatric, cognitive, and parkinsonian features. Gene expression profiling in the frontal cortex of Cynomologous macaques receiving 3.3–5.0 mg Mn/kg weekly for 10 months showed that 61 genes were increased and four genes were decreased relative to controls from a total of 6766 genes. Gene changes were associated with cell cycle regulation, DNA repair, apoptosis, ubiquitin‐proteasome system, protein folding, cholesterol homeostasis, axonal/vesicular transport, and inflammation. Amyloid‐β (Aβ) precursor‐like protein 1, a member of the amyloid precursor protein family, was the most highly up‐regulated gene. Immunohistochemistry confirmed increased amyloid precursor‐like protein 1 protein expression and revealed the presence of diffuse Aβ plaques in Mn‐exposed frontal cortex. Cortical neurons and white matter fibers from Mn‐exposed animals accumulated silver grains indicative of on‐going degeneration. Cortical neurons also exhibited nuclear hypertrophy, intracytoplasmic vacuoles, and apoptosis stigmata. p53 immunolabeling was increased in the cytoplasm of neurons and in the nucleus and processes of glial cells in Mn‐exposed tissue. In summary, chronic Mn exposure produces a cellular stress response leading to neurodegenerative changes and diffuse Aβ plaques in the frontal cortex. These changes may explain the subtle cognitive deficits previously demonstrated in these same animals.
Expression of 3‐hydroxyisobutyrate dehydrogenase in cultured neural cells
Authors: Murín Radovan , Schaer Andreas , Kowtharapu Bhavani S. , Verleysdonk Stephan , Hamprecht Bernd
Published: February 2008

The branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) – isoleucine, leucine, and valine – belong to the limited group of substances transported through the blood–brain barrier. One of the functions they are thought to have in brain is to serve as substrates for meeting parenchymal energy demands. Previous studies have shown the ubiquitous expression of a branched‐chain alpha‐keto acid dehydrogenase among neural cells. This enzyme catalyzes the initial and rate‐limiting step in the irreversible degradative pathway for the carbon skeleton of valine and the other two branched‐chain amino acids. Unlike the acyl‐CoA derivates in the irreversible part of valine catabolism, 3‐hydroxyisobutyrate could be expected to be released from cells by transport across the mitochondrial and plasma membranes. This could indeed be demonstrated for cultured astroglial cells. Therefore, to assess the ability of neural cells to make use of this valine‐derived carbon skeleton as a metabolic substrate for the generation of energy, we investigated the expression in cultured neural cells of the enzyme processing this hydroxy acid, 3‐hydroxyisobutyrate dehydrogenase (HIBDH). To achieve this, HIBDH was purified from bovine liver to serve as antigen for the production of an antiserum. Affinity‐purified antibodies against HIBDH specifically recognized the enzyme in liver and brain homogenates. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated the ubiquitous expression of HIBDH among cultured glial (astroglial, oligodendroglial, microglial, and ependymal cells) and neuronal cells. Using an RT‐PCR technique, these findings were corroborated by the detection of HIBDH mRNA in these cells. Furthermore, immunofluorescence double‐labeling of astroglial cells with antisera against HIBDH and the mitochondrial marker pyruvate dehydrogenase localized HIBDH to mitochondria. The expression of HIBDH in neural cells demonstrates their potential to utilize valine imported into the brain for the generation of energy.
The Assessment of Juvenile Psychopathy: Strengths and Weaknesses of Currently Used Questionnaire Measures
Authors: Sharp Carla , Kine Sarah
Published: February 2008

Background:  There has been a significant increase in the research use of questionnaire measures of juvenile psychopathy. This paper aimed to critically review these questionnaires.

Method:  Empirical studies on published measures of juvenile psychopathy were reviewed with two criteria in mind: (1) adequate scale psychometrics; (2) utility value in clinical, forensic, community or primary health care settings.

Results:  Despite significant strengths, the review highlights several psychometric shortcomings of currently used measures.

Conclusions:  Psychometric shortcomings in questionnaire measures of juvenile psychopathy mitigate against their use in applied settings in the absence of full clinical assessments, especially where pre‐adolescent children are concerned.
Foetal Distress*
Authors: Cox L. Woodrow
Published: February 2008

1. The results are recorded of a study of 4,860 case‐records of women in labour, in which 562 patients showed one or more signs of foetal distress.

2. “Transient” foetal distress (the recording of one sign on one occasion only) had a perinatal mortality of 2.0 per cent.

3. Tachycardia alone showed a morbidity of 20.5 per cent, and mortality of 3.3 per cent.

4. Bradycardia and meconium discharge had morbidities of 20 per cent, and mortalities of 5.4 and 3.5 per cent, respectively.

5. A perinatal mortality of 4.5 per cent, in cases where delivery was not effected within 15 minutes suggests that earlier intervention might have improved the results.

6. The problems of continuous monitoring of the foetal heart have been discussed, together with a method of monitoring by direct foetal electrocardiography.
The Role of the Adrenal Cortex in the Stein‐Leventhal Syndrome*
Authors: Shearman Rodney P.
Published: February 2008

Evidence suggesting that the adrenal cortex is involved in the Stein‐Leventhal syndrome is examined. These patients show abnormalities on fractionation of total 17‐ketosteroids and pregnanetriolone has been detected in the urine of 16 consecutive cases.

As this steroid has been previously detected only in patients with gross adrenal dysfunction it is felt that this provides additional support for the thesis that the adrenal cortex plays a role in the Stein‐Leventhal syndrome.
Induction of Labour in Rh‐Immunized Patients*
Authors: Townsend Lance
Published: February 2008

Selective induction of labour was carried out in 241 Rh‐immunized patients. The past obstetrical history, the indirect antiglobulin titre, and the colour of the liquor amnii were all considered before the time of induction was determined.

In pregnancies in which antibodies first appear and in any pregnancy subsequent to one in which the baby was only mildly affected by erythroblastosis (Group I), the indirect antiglobulin titre was used as the chief indication, and the colour of the liquor as a secondary indication, of when to induce labour. Labour was usually induced between 40 and 35 weeks. In 183 patients in this category with Rh positive babies there was a peri‐natal mortality of 8 per cent.

In cases where a previous pregnancy had resulted in a baby requiring an exchange transfusion (Group II), the colour of the liquor was used as the chief indication of when to induce labour. In general, labour was induced between 37 and 35 weeks. In 64 pregnancies in this category with Rh positive babies there was a peri‐natal mortality of 17 per cent.

In cases where a previous pregnancy had resulted in a baby dying from erythroblastosis (Group III), induction of labour should be carried out a week before the stage at which the previous foetal death occurred (providing the pregnancy has passed the 33rd week), or according to the colour of the liquor or the strength of the foetal movements. In this group labour was usually induced between 37 and 34 weeks, and in 46 pregnancies where the baby was Rh positive there was a perinatal mortality of 54 per cent. It is obvious that many factors must be considered before the time of induction is finalized. Each patient must be considered individually and such complications as preeclampsia and hydramnios may further alter the time of induction.

Surgical induction of labour, with the use of intravenous oxytocic agents where necessary, is an effective method of initiating labour. Such a regime was used in 233 patients with a 2 per cent failure rate.

The Rh status of the foetus was forecast after a consideration of the genotype of the father, the past obstetrical history and a study of the liquor amnii.
Body Weight, Diet and Pre‐eclamptic Toxaemia of Pregnancy
Authors: Hankin M. E. , Symonds E. M.
Published: February 2008

A study of the diet, weight gain and incidence of pre‐eclamptic toxaemia has been carried out on a group of primigravidae and secundigravidae.

The incidence of pre‐eclamptic toxaemia was significantly higher in primigravidae.

No relationship could be established between dietary intake and the development of pre‐eclamptic toxaemia of pregnancy. The value of diets with a high protein content in preventing toxaemia could not be demonstrated.

The mean initial weight was significantly higher in patients developing preeclamptic toxaemia. However, no significant relationship was found in those women who were overweight for their height and age (two standard deviations).

Weight gain could not be related to caloric intake in either the 20 to 30 week period or the 30 to 40 week period.

Weight gain in the 20 to 30 week period showed a positive regression to the incidence of pre‐eclamptic toxaemia, but no significant trend could be demonstrated in the 30 to 40 week period.
The Value of Iron Supplementation During Pregnancy
Authors: Hankin M. E.
Published: February 2008

Haemoglobin and haematocrit values of 174 healthy primigravidae and secundigravidae on adequate diets were studied.

Haemoglobin and haematocrit levels were unrelated to dietary iron intake.

There was no significant difference in haemoglobin and haematocrit values of primigravidae and secundigravidae.

None of the women developed anaemia (haemoglobin below 10 gm./100 ml.)

The value of iron supplementation on maternal haemoglobin and haematocrit values could not be demonstrated, although the iron supplemented group had significantly higher haemoglobin values in the third trimester and on the fifth day after delivery than the unsupplemented group. This was no longer apparent six weeks and three months after delivery.

Maternal iron supplementation had no effect on the cord haemoglobin levels and those of the offspring six weeks, three months, and six months post‐natally.
A Case Exemplifying Sampson's Theory of the Aetiology of Endometriosis
Authors: Mathew A. G.
Published: February 2008

Reference has been made to the theories of origin of endometriosis.

Details have been given of a young patient suffering from severe dysmenorrhoea due to haematometra in the rudimentary left horn of a bicornuate uterus with associated endometriosis of the corresponding tube and ovary. Complete relief of symptoms followed the surgical removal of these structures.

Reference has been made to the relationship that this case bears to the aetiology of endometriosis, providing further evidence for Sampson's theory.
Chromosomes in Gynaecological Malignant Tumours
Authors: Wakonig‐Vaartaja Resa
Published: February 2008

Chromosome studies of biopsies from 15 patients with carcinomata of the cervix, 5 patients with carcinomata of the corpus uteri and 16 patients with non‐malignant endometria are reported.

In the carcinomata of the cervix, the chromosome counts were distributed over a wide range, and were different in each tumour. In contrast, the chromosome counts of the carcinomata of the corpus uteri showed a much smaller range and were nearer to 46.

Karyotypes were prepared from several tumours, the majority showing random numerical variations and structural abnormalities.

The incidence of polyploid cells was also recorded, and showed a marked increase in the carcinomata of the cervix compared with the carcinomata of the corpus uteri and non‐malignant endometria.

No connection was apparent between the chromosome pattern and the histology of each tumour.
T‐tube Suction Drainage and Radical Pelvic Surgery
Authors: Kneale Barry , Anderson Bruce
Published: February 2008

An analysis of 52 consecutive patients with uterine cancer treated by Wertheim hysterectomy from 1957 to 1960 is presented.

A method of post‐operative drainage utilizing suction applied to an indwelling T‐tube passing through the vaginal vault is described.

There was no operative mortality and the operative fistula rate was less than 2%.

Two lymphocysts were observed, but both disappeared spontaneously.

The convalescent period was generally improved.

The results accord with the authors' theory that accumulated blood in the pelvic cavity after radical surgery leads to infection and obstruction of both urinary and lymphatic channels.
The Relationship of Liquor Volume and Placental Insufficiency
Authors: Elliott Peter
Published: February 2008

The volumes of liquor amnii have been studied in 131 patients from the thirty‐seventh week onward.

In this series 39 patients had normal pregnancies, 35 suffered from pre‐eclampsia, 35 suffered from hypertension and 2 failed to gain weight normally.

The mechanism of the production of liquor amnii has been discussed and this has been related to the placental function.
The Plasminogen‐PIasmin Content of Umbilical Cord Blood
Authors: Cope Ian , Mitchell Paul
Published: February 2008

The plasminogen contents of the blood of the umbilical vessels and of the maternal peripheral vein were determined. The plasminogen content of the umbilical artery blood varied from 0.2 to 10.1 caseinolytic units per ml. of serum and that of the umbilical vein blood from 2.7 to 9.8 caseinolytic units per ml. of serum. In the maternal peripheral vein, the plasminogen content varied from 7.5 to 15.6 caseinolytic units per ml. of serum.

The average fibrinogen content in the umbilical vein was 298 mg. per 100 ml. of plasma and in maternal peripheral plasma it was 487 mg. per 100 ml.

In this series, where greater spontaneous activity was detected in the umbilical artery than in the umbilical vein, the plasminogen content of the umbilical artery was correspondingly lower than that of the umbilical vein. It is postulated that this is because of increased utilization of plasminogen.

Since in many cases there was no difference in spontaneous ‐plasmin activity and plasminogen content in arterial and venous cord bloods, it is considered also that in the cases where there was increased plasmin activity and decreased plasminogen content a recent intervillous thrombosis had occurred.
Further Experiences in Tuboplasty
Authors: Shirodkar V. N.
Published: February 2008

In spite of a great deal of work in the field of plastic surgery of the fallopian tubes, the problem still remains largely unsolved and presents a challenge to the ingenuity of every gynaecologist.
The Short Primigravida
Authors: Glenning P. P.
Published: February 2008

1. A series of 100 patients less than 152 cm. (5 feet) tall was analysed with regard to their pelvic measurements, nationality and performance in labour.

2. There was a high incidence of contracted pelvis in this group and the contraction occurred predominantly in patients of South European descent.

3. The incidence of Caesarean section in the patients with normal pelvic measurements was twice that of the overall hospital average.

4. A high incidence of Caesarean section and mid forceps operation occurred, particularly in the Italian patients.
Advanced Extrauterine Pregnancy — Case Report
Authors: Correy J. F.
Published: February 2008

A patient with advanced extrauterine pregnancy is reported.

Caesarean section resulted in a healthy, live infant.

As is common in such patients, haemorrhage at the time of delivery brought the patient to a critical condition.
Uterine Activity Following the Birth of the First Twin
Authors: Wood Carl , Pinkerton John H. M.
Published: February 2008

Uterine activity was recorded in 3 patients before and after the delivery of the first twin in order to study the effect of a sudden and large alteration of uterine volume upon uterine function.

 Uterine activity continued immediately after delivery of the first twin, this result being similar to comparable experiments carried out upon rabbit uteri.

 Alteration in the quality and quantity of uterine activity also occurred and the variation in these responses in the 3 patients probably was dependent upon the mechanical and physiological factors discussed.
Repeat Elective Caesarean Section
Authors: Giles P. F. H.
Published: February 2008

The 161 repeat elective Caesarean sections performed on booked public patients at the Royal Women's Hospital Melbourne, in 1962 and 1963 are reviewed.

There were no maternal deaths.

The weights of babies, their resuscitation times and the perinatal mortality (37 per 1000) are described.

Obstetrical abnormalities of patients having repeat elective Caesarean section, the indication for the operation and when it was performed, as well as difficulties encountered at operation, are discussed.

The abnormal Caesarean scars, the indications for tubal ligation, and the postoperative complications are reviewed.

Comments are made on attendance at the postnatal clinic, on fertility after Caesarean section, and on the influence of racial origin.
Retained Abdominal Pregnancy
Authors: Nairn Ahmed , Fahmy Kamal , El‐Tannir Ali D.
Published: February 2008

Two cases of retained abdominal pregnancy are presented. The incidence, pathological changes, diagnosis and management of such cases are discussed, and the ease with which such retained foetuses can be removed from the abdomen is emphasized. The foetus was retained for more than 2 years in one patient and for 4 years in the other. In each case, lithopedion formation occurred.
Disgerminoma Presenting in the Puerperium with Torsion of its Pedicle
Authors: Lind T.
Published: February 2008

A case report is presented where the patient's puerperium was complicated by torsion of a disgerminoma of the ovary. The histological appearance of the tumour is described and its apparent lack of hormone influence is emphasised by the appearance of maturing Graafian follicles in the affected ovary and its association with pregnancy. Five weeks after operation the patient became pregnant again, but miscarried at 12 weeks.
Cervical Cone Biopsy with Octapressin
Authors: Green G. H.
Published: February 2008

A series of 200 consecutive cone biopsies performed between April, 1963 and June, 1965 is presented.

 A correlation between the Papanicolaou rating of the cervical cytology for which the cone was performed and the subsequent histology was demonstrated, but this could not be relied upon in the individual case.

 Seven patients had conization during pregnancy; abortion occurring in one of these was the only complication. There was a similarly low incidence of complications in 15 pregnancies occurring after cone biopsy.

 Octapressin (Sandoz) was found to be a very satisfactory local haemostatic agent for cervical conization (167 cases) and generally much superior to adrenaline (33 cases).
Placenta Accreta in a Patient with Asherman's Syndrome
Authors: Beard Roland M.
Published: February 2008

Placenta accreta in a patient with intrauterine adhesions is reported.

 Progressive difficulty with the third stage of labour culminated in hysterectomy in the fifth pregnancy.

 It is likely that endometrial sclerosis predisposes to placenta accreta.
The Process of Cervical Regeneration After Electrocauterization:Part 1. Histological and Colposcopic Study
Authors: Reid Bevan L. , Singer Albert , Coppleson Malcolm
Published: February 2008

summary

A combined colposcopic and histological study was made of the early phase of the healing of therapeutic electrocautery burns to the cervix.

Studies at days 2–3 after burning showed that there were no surviving cells down to a depth of 5 mm.

At days 3–4 nerve axones and mononuclear cells appeared in the necrotic scaffold.

At days 7–10 the appearances suggested that mononuclear cells commenced to differentiate into cells of the following morphological types: squamous cells producing a stratified squamous epithelium, columnar cells producing a mucin‐secreting epithelium, fibroblasts producing collagen, and plasma cells.

The contribution of the marginal healthy squamous epithelium to the re‐epithelialising process was identifiable in the period studied and consisted of a very small peripheral margin.

The early appearance of ribonucleoprotein‐loaded axones and their intimate association with the mononuclear cells is discussed.
Foetal Salvage in Retarded Intrauterine Growth of the Foetus
Authors: Elliott P.
Published: February 2008

In view of the high perinatal mortality associated with retarded intrauterine growth of the foetus, it is surprising that the subject does not figure more prominently in the current literature. It is considered that a more widespread appreciation of the features of this condition should result in the prevention of many unnecessary foetal deaths.
Report of a Case of Thoracopagus
Authors: Blunt Alan
Published: February 2008

A case of thoracopagus conjoined twins is described and the literature related to this condition discussed.
A Clinico‐Pathological Study of 2,000 Necropsies
Authors: Attwood H. D. , Stewart A. D.
Published: February 2008

The necropsy findings on 2,000 infants dying in the serinatal period and examined in the pathology department of the Royal Women's Hospital, Melbourne, are described.

The over‐all findings are similar to those of Butler and Bonham (1963) in the Perinatal Mortality Survey in Britain.

In the study of such perinatal deaths it is essential that a careful anatomical dissection be carried out and the need for bacteriological and virological study is emphasised. The lungs in particular must always be examined histologically, but a full histological survey is also desirable since this will bring to light many unsuspected features. Iso‐immunisation and premature labour appear fertile fields for the improvement of perinated wastage figures.
Cardiovascular Disease Contributing to Maternal Mortality in Victoria*
Authors: Walters W. A. W.
Published: February 2008

A total of 392 maternal deaths were registered in the State of Victoria during the 14‐year period, 1953 to 1967. One hundred and four of these deaths (26.5%) were primarily due to cardiovascular disease of three main types, viz., pulmonary thromboembolism (44%), heart disease (33%) and vascular accidents (23%).

Increasing age appeared to be an important aetiological factor in maternal deaths due to pulmonary embolism and vascular accidents, but did not appear to be significant as far as heart disease was concerned. High parity was a feature in the patients dying of vascular accidents but was not evident in the other two categories.

By far the most impressive finding in this study was the high incidence of deaths from cardiovascular disease in the puer‐perium. The majority of deaths in each of the 3 main cardiovascular groups occurred after parturition.

Post mortem examinations were performed in 54% of patients in whom a diagnosis of pulmonary thromboembolism was made, but were performed more often in patients with a diagnosis of cardiac disease or vascular accidents, i.e., in 74% and 71%, respectively.

The incidence of operative delivery was high in all groups.

In most cases in which avoidable factors were thought to have been present, the doctor was deemed responsible.

Possible aetiolpgical factors pertaining to each group of cardiovascular diseases in relation to pregnancy have been discussed and as a result of this survey attention has been drawn to the need for further research in certain areas.
Intrauterine Fetal Transfusion—Analysis of the Experience at the Yale‐New Haven Medical Center, 1965–1968*
Authors: Wade Maclyn E. , Ogden John A. , Davis Clarence D.
Published: February 2008

One hundred and thirteen intrauterine fetal transfusions were performed in 52 patients. The results are compared to those of the Cooperative Study of 15 American institutions.

Fifty‐one percent. of the babies in the present series were born alive, but only 34.6% survived the perinatal period.

The most consistent and least traumatic results were obtained by direct transfusion through a fluoroscopically‐positioned needle. Other methods are discussed.

Analysis of the results in our series demonstrated a direct relationship between fetal gestational age, ascites, and the rate of survival. Fetuses who had ascites at the time of the initial transfusion were found to have a minimal chance of survival. In contrast to the results of the Cooperative Study, a fetus of less than 24 weeks gestation, without evidence of ascites, was found to have a rate of survival that justified early transfusion in experienced hands.
Hormonal Activity of “Non‐ Functional” Ovarian Tumours
Authors: Bhargava Vijaya L. , Beischer N. A. , Brown J. B. , Townsend L.
Published: February 2008

Hormonal assessment by urinary oestrogen and pregnanediol estimation, endometrial histology, and vaginal cytology was performed in 9 postmenopausal and 7 premenopausal patients with “non‐functional ovarian tumours. The variations recorded in hormone excretion and vaginal cytology after surgical removal of the tumours are presented. Raised urinary oestrogen excretion was found in 4 of the 9 postmenopausal patients and this fell to normal values after operation in the 3 who were operable. The tumours associated with increased oestrogen excretion were mucinous cystadenomata (2) and adenocarcinomata (2). It was apparent that an oestrogen‐secreting tumour cannot be excluded by vaginal cytology when the smear on presentation is non‐oestrogenic and also that endometrial histology may be equally misleading.
Rhesus Immunization Before Delivery of the First Baby
Authors: Aickin D. R.
Published: February 2008

The histories of 887 rhesus D immunized patients are reviewed. Forty‐six patients (5.2%) were already immunized by the time of delivery of the first baby. Nine (1%) were probably immunized by an abortion, 17 (1.9%) appeared to become immunized during pregnancy, and 20 (2.2%) were immunized by an incompatible blood transfusion prior to pregnancy.

The implications of these findings with regard to timing of anti‐D gamma globulin injections is discussed.