bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From arctic lemmings to adaptive dynamics: Charles Elton's legacy in population ecology
Authors: LINDSTRÖM JAN , RANTA ESA , KOKKO HANNA , LUNDBERG PER , KAITALA VEIJO
Published: August 2010

We shall examine the impact of Charles S. Elton's 1924 article on periodic fluctuations in animal populations on the development of modern population ecology. We argue that his impact has been substantial and that during the past 75 years of research on multi‐annual periodic fluctuations in numbers of voles, lemmings, hares, lynx and game animals he has contributed much to the contemporary understanding of the causes and consequences of population regulation. Elton was convinced that the cause of the regular fluctuations was climatic variation. To support this conclusion, he examined long‐term population data then available. Despite his firm belief in a climatic cause of the self‐repeating periodic dynamics which many species display, Elton was insightful and far‐sighted enough to outline many of the other hypotheses since put forward as an explanation for the enigmatic long‐term dynamics of some animal populations. An interesting, but largely neglected aspect in Elton's paper is that it ends with speculation regarding the evolutionary consequences of periodic population fluctuations. The modern understanding of these issues will also be scrutinised here. In population ecology, Elton's 1924 paper has spawned a whole industry of research on populations displaying multi‐annual periodicity. Despite the efforts of numerous research teams and individuals focusing on the origins of multi‐annual population cycles, and despite the early availability of different explanatory hypotheses, we are still lacking rigorous tests of some of these hypotheses and, consequently, a consensus of the causes of periodic fluctuations in animal populations. Although Elton would have been happy to see so much effort spent on cyclic populations, we also argue that it is unfortunate if this focus on a special case of population dynamics should distract our attention from more general problems in population and community dynamics.
The behaviour and ecology of the zebrafish,Danio rerio
Authors: Spence Rowena , Gerlach Gabriele , Lawrence Christian , Smith Carl
Published: August 2010

The zebrafishDanio rerio, is an important model organism in developmental genetics, neurophysiology and biomedicine, but little is known about its natural ecology and behaviour. It is a small, shoaling cyprinid, native to the flood‐plains of the Indian subcontinent, where it is found in shallow, slow‐flowing waters. Zebrafish are group spawners and egg scatterers, although females are choosy with respect to sites for oviposition and males defend territories around such sites. Laboratory studies of zebrafish behaviour have encompassed shoaling, foraging, reproduction, sensory perception and learning. These studies are reviewed in relation to the suitability of the zebrafish as a model for studies on cognition and learning, development, behavioural and evolutionary ecology, and behavioural genetics.
Levels of organization in biology: on the nature and nomenclature of ecology’s fourth level
Authors: Lidicker William Z.
Published: August 2010

Viewing the universe as being composed of hierarchically arranged systems is widely accepted as a useful model of reality. In ecology, three levels of organization are generally recognized: organisms, populations, and communities (biocoenoses). For half a century increasing numbers of ecologists have concluded that recognition of a fourth level would facilitate increased understanding of ecological phenomena. Sometimes the word “ecosystem” is used for this level, but this is arguably inappropriate. Since 1986, I and others have argued that the term “landscape” would be a suitable term for a level of organization defined as an ecological system containing more than one community type. However, “landscape” and “landscape level” continue to be used extensively by ecologists in the popular sense of a large expanse of space. I therefore now propose that the term “ecoscape” be used instead for this fourth level of organization. A clearly defined fourth level for ecology would focus attention on the emergent properties of this level, and maintain the spatial and temporal scale‐free nature inherent in this hierarchy of organizational levels for living entities.
From food‐dependent statistics to metabolic parameters, a practical guide to the use of dynamic energy budget theory
Authors: Kooijman S. A. L. M. , Sousa T. , Pecquerie L. , Van Der Meer J. , Jager T.
Published: August 2010

The standard model of the dynamic energy budget theory for metabolic organisation has variables and parameters that can be quantified using indirect methods only. We present new methods (and software) to extract food‐independent parameter values of the energy budget from food‐dependent quantities that are easy to observe, and so facilitate the practical application of the theory to enhance predictability and extrapolation. A natural sequence of 10 steps is discussed to obtain some compound parameters first, then the primary parameters, then the composition parameters and finally the thermodynamic parameters; this sequence matches a sequence of required data of increasing complexity which is discussed in detail. Many applications do not require knowledge of all parameters, and we discuss methods to extrapolate parameters from one species to another. The conversion of mass, volume and energy measures of biomass is discussed; these conversions are not trivial because biomass can change in chemical composition in particular ways thanks to different forms of homeostasis. We solve problems like “What would be the ultimate reproduction rate and the von Bertalanffy growth rate at a specific food level, given that we have measured these statistics at abundant food?” and “What would be the maximum incubation time, given the parameters of the von Bertalanffy growth curve?”. We propose a new non‐destructive method for quantifying the chemical potential and entropy of living reserve and structure, that can potentially change our ideas on the thermodynamic properties of life. We illustrate the methods using data on daphnids and molluscs.
Functional and Numerical Responses of Predators: Where Do Vipers Fit in the Traditional Paradigms?
Authors: Nowak Erika M. , Theimer Tad C. , Schuett Gordon W.
Published: August 2010

Snakes typically are not considered top carnivores, yet in many ecosystems they are a major predatory influence. A literature search confirmed that terrestrial ectotherms such as snakes are largely absent in most discussions of predator‐prey dynamics. Here, we review classical functional and numerical responses of predator‐prey relationships and then assess whether these traditional views are consistent with what we know of one group of snakes (true vipers and pitvipers: Viperidae). Specifically, we compare behavioural and physiological characteristics of vipers with those of more commonly studied mammalian (endothermic) predators and discuss how functional and numerical responses of vipers are fundamentally different. Overall, when compared to similar‐sized endotherms, our analysis showed that vipers have: (i) lower functional responses owing primarily to longer prey handling times resulting from digestive limitations of consuming large prey and, for some adults, tolerance of fasting; (ii) stronger numerical responses resulting from higher efficiency of converting food into fitness currency (progeny), although this response often takes longer to be expressed; and (iii) reduced capacity for rapid numerical responses to short‐term changes in prey abundance. Given these factors, the potential for viperids to regulate prey populations would most likely occur when prey populations are low. We provide suggestions for future research on key issues in predator‐prey relationships of vipers, including their position within the classical paradigms of functional and numerical responses.
Psychosocial child adjustment and family functioning in families reached with an assertive outreach intervention
Authors: Rots‐de Vries Carin , van de Goor Ien , Stronks Karien , Garretsen Henk
Published: August 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 269–276
 
Psychosocial child adjustment and family functioning in families reached with an assertive outreach intervention

Families who experience a chronic complex of socio‐economic and psychosocial problems are hard to reach with mainstream care. Evidence exists that the core of this problem is a problematic interaction between this type of family and current systems of care and services. To improve access to problem families, an assertive outreach intervention was implemented into the field of preventive child health care, the Netherlands. The study aimed to provide a more detailed insight into characteristics of the target group. Although there is consensus about some general features of hard to reach problem families, little is known about their specific characteristics because empirical studies among this group are rarely conducted. Especially, the problems of the children is shed insufficient light on. The studied population consisted of families included in the assertive outreach intervention delivered during one year (N = 116). To assess psychosocial adjustment of the children, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire was filled in by the parents. Furthermore, a Dutch questionnaire on family functioning was completed by professional carers. Descriptive data were calculated. The findings show that by using the assertive outreach intervention, programme staff came into contact with families characterised by a considerably higher than average proportion of single parents and unemployed households receiving social benefits. The families faced a high level of risk and a wide range of severe and multiple difficulties, including a lack of basic child care, an inadequate social network and poor parenting. Children in these families were also facing a number of risks. The proportion of psychosocial problems was well above the (inter)national average. The findings reveal the problem areas of unreached families and a need to improve the access to care for these families.
Seeking a balance between employment and the care of an ageing parent
Authors: Eldh Ann Catrine , Carlsson Eva
Published: August 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 285–293
 
Seeking a balance between employment and the care of an ageing parent

Rationale:  A growing number of middle‐aged people are engaged in informal care of their parents while employed. To provide support as employers, co‐workers or staff, health care professionals need insight into the experiences of people managing these responsibilities.

Aim:  To elucidate the experience of providing informal care to an ageing parent while managing the responsibilities of a working life.

Methods:  Narrative interviews were performed with 11 persons with experience of the phenomenon. Transcribed interviews were analysed with phenomenological hermeneutics.

Ethics:  Informed consent was given prior to the interviews. The study was approved by a research ethics committee.

Findings:  Providing informal care to an ageing parent while also pursuing a working life implies seeking balance: a balance between providing support to the parent’s needs and one’s responsibilities at work. Being employed supports this balance as it provides both fulfilment and refuge. Being capable of managing both roles grants a sense of satisfaction, supporting one’s sense of balance in life. The balance can be supported by sharing the responsibility of caring for the ageing parent with others.

Study limitations:  Despite perceived saturation and an effort to provide for the possibility to consider internal consistency, the findings should be considered as a contribution to the understanding of the phenomenon, as experienced by individuals in their life world.

Conclusions:  It is essential to recognise the impact that providing care for an ageing parent may have on the lives of a growing number of people, particularly if they have employment responsibilities. Acknowledgement by others supports one’s ability to attain balance; as co‐workers and managers, we can acknowledge the efforts of an informal caregiver and as health care staff recognise the valuable contribution made by people in mid‐life who provide informal care for their ageing parents.
Parents′ experience of living with a baby with infantile colic – a phenomenological hermeneutic study
Authors: Landgren Kajsa , Hallström Inger
Published: August 2010

Scand J Caring Sci; 2011; 25; 317–324
 
Parents′ experience of living with a baby with infantile colic – a phenomenological hermeneutic study

Background:  About 10% of newborn babies have infantile colic which means that they cry more than 3 hours per day. The baby’s crying risks disturbing the early parent–child interaction.

Objective:  This study aimed to illuminate the meaning of being a parent of a baby with infantile colic.

Design:  An inductive qualitative interview study.

Participants and settings:  Twenty‐three parents (12 mothers and 11 fathers) seeking help for infantile colic at a Child Health Clinic in south Sweden, having verified in a diary their babies’ crying to more than 3 hours/day, were individually interviewed between March 2006 and April 2007. Parents were selected to ensure variation in age and gender and if they were first‐time parents.

Method:  Parent’s narratives were analysed using a phenomenological hermeneutic method.

Findings:  The main theme found was ‘Colic overshadows everything’. Tired and worried parents experienced living in an inferno. Both fathers and mothers suffered with their babies, felt powerless and overwhelmed by strong feelings and neglected their other needs. To get through this period, parents used various strategies to ease their baby’s pain. Parents forced themselves not to lose control, to keep a stiff upper lip and generally to bear up. Sharing the burden was important. In spite of the suffering, they also felt hope, happiness and gratitude that they had a healthy baby. The results were reflected upon in relation to systems theory, attachment theory and a theory of interpersonal aspects of nursing.

Conclusion:  It is an important task for professionals to empower parents and help them to endure the colic period and to gain higher self‐esteem as parents. By listening to the parents’ stories they can better understand their situation, offer support and increase self‐efficacy.
Geomechanical and Geochemical Evidence of Piezonuclear Fission Reactions in the Earth’s Crust
Authors: Carpinteri A. , Manuello A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Piezonuclear reactions, which occur in inert and non‐radioactive elements, are induced by high pressure and, in particular, by brittle fracture phenomena in solids under compression. These low‐energy reactions generally take place in nuclei with an atomic weight that is lower or equal to that of iron (Fe). The experimental evidence, obtained from repeatable measurements of neutron emissions [Strain 45, 2009, 332; Strain (in press); Phys. Lett. A. 373, 2009, 4158], can be also recognised considering the anomalous chemical balances of the major events that have affected the Earth’s crust, oceans and atmosphere, over the last 4 billion years. These anomalies include (i) abrupt variations in the most abundant elements in correspondence with the formation of tectonic plates; (ii) the ‘Great Oxidation Event’ (2.7–2.4 billion years ago), with a sharp increase in atmospheric oxygen and the subsequent origin of life; (iii) the current climate acceleration partially because of ‘carbon pollution’. Natural piezonuclear reactions are induced by fault sliding and plate subduction phenomena.
Creep and Low Cycle Fatigue Investigations of Light Aluminium Alloys for Engine Cylinder Heads
Authors: Rutecka A. , Kowalewski Z.L. , Pietrzak K. , Dietrich L. , Rehm W.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  An influence of the chemical composition, porosity and ageing on mechanical behaviour of light, multifunctional aluminium alloys (AlSi8Cu3 and AlSi7MgCu0.5) subjected to creep and low cycle fatigue (LCF) was investigated. The materials were tested to verify their applicability as the cylinder heads in car engines. During creep tests, a strain response of the materials was observed under a range of the step‐increased stresses and different temperatures. The LCF tests were carried out under strain control in three blocks of 100 cycles each with a constant strain amplitude. The results of creep and LCF tests were analysed with regard to chemical composition, type of porosity and ageing of the materials tested. An influence of porosity on the creep resistance and lifetime was considered. The results of the LCF tests were compared for the materials in the as‐received state and after ageing. An experimental evaluation of cyclic behaviour because of the LCF was carried out to check whether the hardening or softening effects can be observed in the materials. Taking into account the various history of loading, a stress response of the materials was investigated.
Assuming too much? Participatory water resource governance in South Africa
Authors: BROWN JULIA
Published: August 2010

This paper argues that participation in natural resource management, which is often coupled with moves for more local ownership of decisionmaking, is based on three sets of assumptions: about the role of the state, the universality of application of such approaches and the transformatory potential of institutional reform. The validity of these assumptions requires investigation in view of the rapid institutionalisation and scaling‐up of participatory approaches, particularly in developing country contexts. Post‐apartheid South Africa is widely recognised as a pioneer of participatory and devolutionary approaches, particularly in the field of water resources. It is 12 years since the promulgation of the forward‐thinking 1998 National Water Act, and thus an opportune moment to reflect on South Africa's experiences of participatory governance. Drawing on empirical research covering the establishment of the first Catchment Management Agency, and the transformation of existing Irrigation Boards into more inclusive Water User Associations in the Inkomati Water Management Area, it emerges that there may be fundamental weaknesses in the participatory model and underlying assumptions, and indeed such approaches may actually reinforce inequitable outcomes: the legacy of long‐established institutional frameworks and powerful actors therein continues to exert influence in post‐apartheid South Africa, and has the potential to subvert the democratic and redistributive potential of the water reforms. It is argued that a reassessment of the role of the state is necessary: where there is extreme heterogeneity in challenging catchments more, rather than less, state intervention may be required to uphold the interests of marginalised groups and effect redistribution.
Francesco Paciotti, European geopolitics, and military architecture
Authors: VERSTEGEN IAN
Published: August 2010

Francesco Paciotti (1520–90) was one of the most famous military architects of the sixteenth century, building citadels in Turin and Antwerp and consulting all over Europe. Much of his success has not been properly connected to his descent from an illegitimate son of Giovanni della Rovere (d. 1501) and subsequent attainment of patrician status of the Paciotti clan in their native Urbino. The fact that Paciotti could be taken into confidence by allied European leaders – King Philip II of Spain, Duke Emmanuel Philibert of Savoy, Popes Pius V and Gregory XIII – was afforded by his ambassador‐like status for the Duke of Urbino, Guidobaldo II della Rovere (1514–74). This new understanding of Paciotti's success allows us to discover an order among his works. Far from those of a neutral journeyman, Paciotti's projects all align diplomatically to Urbino‐friendly jobs. The new understanding also, however, raises many new issues of the loftiness of the pursuit of military rather than civil architecture, of the secretive (and therefore largely unpublished) nature of noble‐ambassadorial intellectual products, and the weight that should be given to the resulting historical record of texts and prints produced by anxious entrepreneurial authors and artists.
Use of regression methods for determining the relation between theoretical–linear and spectrophotometrical colour values of bicolour woven structures
Authors: Gabrijelčič Helena , Dimitrovski Krste
Published: August 2010

In this paper, new approaches for evaluating the entire colour effect of optical mixing of bicolour woven structures are presented. Simple woven structures with constant colour in the warp direction and different colours in the weft direction were prepared and analysed. The constructional parameters of these woven fabrics were systematically changed, which resulted in the variations of the fractions of colour components and, consequently, also in the changes of colour properties (lightness, hue, chroma) of bicolour optical mixtures. The position of colours of the bicolour structures and the approximate direction (linear) of colour changes in CIELAB colour space were theoretically determined with a simple geometrical model and additive method. Furthermore, the bicolour optical effects were determined spectrophotometrically. The differences between the linear–theoretical and the spectrophotometrical colour values of bicolour woven fabrics were mathematically analysed with linear and non‐linear regression methods to determine the positions of colour coordinates L*, a* and b* of bicolour woven fabrics in the a*b* plane by increasing or reducing the cover factors of warp and weft threads (addition or reduction of colour components). The results present, on the one hand, the strong influence of original colours of warp and weft threads and, on the other hand, the minor influence of constructional parameters on the form of linear/non‐linear behaviour of colours of bicolour compositions. When the characteristics of a specific colour combination are taken into account, the spectrophotometrical colour values of bicolour woven fabrics can be also mathematically determined with additive–theoretical colour values and, to some extent, with predictable colour deviations.
Protection of lyocell fibres against fibrillation; mechanism for the poor crosslinking performance of reactive dyes on lyocell fibres and the influence of a colourless crosslinking agent as co‐applicant
Authors: Ibbett R , Owens H , Reisel R , Renfrew A H M
Published: August 2010

Sandospace R and five multi‐functional reactive dyes have been applied to lyocell fibre, by exhaust methods. A comparison has been made of the number of mmoles of each species covalently bonded to the fibre, with cross‐linking efficiency (NSF values). None of the dyes studied was able to achieve levels of cross‐linking found in non‐fibrillating grades of lyocell, unless unrealistically high levels were applied. Sandospace R readily matched the NSF values found in commercially produced non‐fibrillating fibres. An explanatory mechanism based on differences in size between Sandospace R and the reactive dyes has been proposed. Fitting the experimental NSF data to an Arrhenius model confirmed the increasing gradient of the NSF curves with increasing millimolar concentration of species fixed. The chroma of the agent‐plus‐dye fibre samples remained relatively constant being either at the same level or above that of those fibre samples treated only with dye. Co‐application of Sandospace R with the reactive dyes has achieved levels of cross‐linking found in commercial non‐fibrillating lyocell fibres.
Influence of melt spinning conditions on dye uptake of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibres
Authors: Yildirim Kenan , Altun Sule , Kanik Mehmet , Ulcay Yusuf
Published: August 2010

The effects of quenching air temperature, quenching air speed and winding speed in the melt spinning process of poly(ethylene terephthalate) fibres with a titre of 147 dtex and 96 filaments on dye uptake were investigated. The ranges used for quenching air temperature, quenching air speed and winding speed were 17–27 °C, 0.3–0.7 m/s and 2600–3800 m/min, respectively. Specimens were dyed and their colour strengths (K/S values) were measured using a spectrophotometer. The results were statistically analysed.
An innovative study on dyeing silk fabrics by modified phospholipid liposomes
Authors: El‐Zawahry Manal M , El‐Mallah Mohamed H , El‐Shami Safenaz
Published: August 2010

Modified phospholipids from the commercial soybean lecithin were prepared via acetylation of the acetone insoluble fraction phosphatidylethanolamine.N‐Acetyl‐phosphatidylethanolamine was used to prepare liposomes for encapsulating anionic dyes (acid and reactive dyes) to be used in dyeing silk fabric. Size measurements of the liposomes showed that the maximum vesicle size was 36.61 nm for empty liposomes in comparison with 39.08 and 39.75 nm for acid dyes and 51.78 and 59.20 nm for reactive dyes. The efficiency of the micro‐encapsulated dyes to dye silk fabric has been investigated and compared with the conventional dyeing process using different parameters. It was confirmed that the acetylated acetone insoluble fraction liposome shows better encapsulation of the reactive dyes and achieves more dye uptake than the acid dyes. It was also found that fastness properties of dyed silk with micro‐encapsulated anionic dyes did not change significantly more than the conventional dyeing method. Reuse of the micro‐encapsulated dyebath produces low water pollution as the effluent is virtually colourless. As a result, the process is also economic and eco‐friendly.
Molecular modelling of inclusion compounds from hydrophobic dyes and γ‐cyclodextrin
Authors: El‐Shafei Ahmed
Published: August 2010

This paper arises from studies aimed at developing new approaches to combining the fabric formation and coloration steps of fabric processing. A key aspect of these studies involved the evaluation of cyclodextrin (CD)‐based compounds as hosts for dye molecules that could be released onto a fabric surface following fabric formation. In this study, experimental data from wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction and differential scanning calorimetry experiments were used in tandem with molecular modelling studies to confirm the formation of γ‐CD–dye complex inclusion compounds and to demonstrate the utility of parameterised model number 3 (PM3) semi‐empirical molecular modelling methods for predicting the nature of the preferred γ‐CD–dye inclusion compounds. Calculations revealed that the inclusion compounds containing two dye molecules was preferred over the inclusion compound containing one dye molecule. Further, molecular modelling of the inclusion compound obtained using γ‐CD linked to an epichlorohydrin‐based oligomer and commercial disperse dyes showed inclusion compound formation to be an energetically favourable process.
Application of nickel‐catalysed reduction and azo dye reactions for the determination of tinidazole
Authors: Prasad A V S S , Muralidhar Reddy P , Shanker K , Rohini R , Ravinder V
Published: August 2010

A macrocyclic Schiff base nickel(ii) complex was synthesised via template synthesis by treating acetylacetone with 1,8‐diaminonaphthalene in the presence of nickel chloride in a 2:2:1 ratio in an aqueous methanol solution at 75 °C for 30 min. It was characterised by elemental, infrared, proton and carbon nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectral analysis and used as a catalyst for the reduction of tinidazole. The reduced tinidazole was treated with nitrous acid and 2‐naphthol and the resulting azo dye was used for the spectrophotometric determination of the reduction product of tinidazole.
Photo‐reductive fading of disperse azo dyes on nylon substrate: thermochemical analyses of reactions of photo‐induced radicals using the semiempirical molecular orbital method†
Authors: Okada Yasuyo , Hihara Toshio , Morita Zenzo
Published: August 2010

When the excited triplet states of disperse azo dyes with nitro groups abstract hydrogen to generate hydrazinyl (from azo groups) and nitrosyl hydroxide radicals (from nitro groups), both the radicals as H‐acceptors carry out azo scission, conversion to nitrogen dioxide via disproportionation reactions and self‐decomposition via rearrangement. A kinetic equation was formulated by the sum of these reactions, which describes the initial rates (KPA) of reductive fading. TheKPAvalues were controlled by the rate constants of the reactions of hydrazinyl and nitrosyl hydroxide radicals as H‐acceptors, which were estimated by thermochemical analyses of the reactants, intermediates and end products using the semiempirical molecular orbital PM5 method, and by the concentrations of the reactants: H‐acceptors and H‐donors. TheKPAvalues observed for 12 dyes were explained semi‐quantitatively by multiple routes of reactions depending upon to what extent each radical reaction was thermochemically favoured.
Assessment of the dyeing properties of pigments from five fungi and anti‐bacterial activity of dyed cotton fabric and leather
Authors: Velmurugan Palanivel , Chae Jong‐Chan , Lakshmanaperumalsamy Perumalsamy , Yun Bong‐Sik , Lee Kui‐Jae , Oh Byung‐Taek
Published: August 2010

The present study was aimed to assess the anti‐bacterial activity and dyeing property of the pigments obtained from five fungal species. Cotton fabric and leather samples were dyed with the purified pigments and their anti‐bacterial activity was assayed under in‐vitro conditions. Post‐mordant cotton fabric and leather samples exhibited maximum bacterial reduction when compared with the pre‐mordant and dyed samples. Pigment exhaustion, colour coordinates and fastness properties of the dyed cotton fabric and leather samples were also assessed. The toxicity of the pigments was evaluated by seed germination assay.
Dye demand/supply ratio as a predictor for the unlevelness of disperse‐dyed polyester
Authors: Ferus‐Comelo Martin
Published: August 2010

The ratio of the demand for dye by the fibre and the supply of dye by the dyebath is a useful indicator to predict unlevelness in the exhaust dyeing of polyester with disperse dyes, provided that dispersion breakage is small. The ratio can be calculated from the dye exhaustion curve, the dye solubility and the flow rate in the machine. The findings suggest that unlevelness can be successfully controlled by ensuring that dye demand never exceeds dye supply at any moment during the dyeing process.
A custom ink‐jet printing system using a novel pretreatment method
Authors: Zhang Yuqian , Westland Stephen , Cheung Vien , Burkinshaw Stephen M , Blackburn Richard S
Published: August 2010

A low‐cost and environmental‐friendly direct dye‐based ink‐jet printing system was developed. A novel ink‐jet pretreatment method was employed, in which the cationic fixing agent, Matexil FC‐ER, was applied as the colourless fixing ink and applied only on image areas of the fabric by ink‐jet printer. It was found that this new pretreatment method could more effectively enhance the colour strength and improve the wash fastness (greyscale ≥ 3) when compared with traditional exhaust application. The cross‐staining of non‐image areas of fabric was also apparently decreased using this new method. The light fastness of ink‐jet pretreated samples was slightly reduced as the presence of Matexil FC‐ER made dyes more sensitive to light.
Development of efficient and durable sources of white light
Authors: Dawson Timothy L
Published: August 2010

This review presents a brief history of the development of light sources over the centuries to provide one of the human race’s basic needs – light. Recent moves in Europe to encourage the adoption of compact fluorescent lamps as more energy‐efficient replacements for incandescent lights, despite certain drawbacks, are described. Rapid strides are now being made in the development of solid‐state ‘white’ lights which are already sufficiently durable and efficient to warrant adoption for both domestic and public lighting purposes. Their basic construction and comparative performance, properties and uses are fully described, together with the many ideas for improving their brightness and durability still further. Solid‐state devices offer additional savings compared with those which should be achieved under the EU’s targeted replacement of incandescent lights by 2012, and later one can expect such devices to compete with high‐pressure sodium luminaires for street lighting.
Comparative study of colour yield of cotton knitted fabric made by torque‐free ring‐spun yarns
Authors: Wan M L , Kan C W , Choi K F
Published: August 2010

Torque‐free ring spinning is a new spinning technology that has produced yarns with low twist and balanced torque. In this study, a commercially torque‐free ring‐spun yarn, namely Estex yarn, with three types of cotton fibre, i.e. Pima, upland and organic cotton, were used. Cotton fabric samples were knitted with Estex yarns and conventional ring‐spun yarns. The fabric samples were then dyed with two reactive dyes, Remazol Black B and Remazol Brilliant Blue R Spec., and the fabric dyeability was measured in terms of reflectance and colour yield. Finally, the results were analysed using the statistical software package SPSS and the results revealed that fabric samples manufactured by Estex yarns could achieve a better colour yield than conventional ring‐spun fabric samples. In addition, the Pima cotton gave the best colour yield, followed by upland cotton and organic cotton.
Different transformation methods between CIELAB coordinates and Munsell hue
Authors: Mahyar Forough , Cheung Vien , Westland Stephen
Published: August 2010

This research aims to convert CIE L*C*abhab coordinates into corresponding Munsell hues. Different transformation methods for colour mapping from CIELAB colour space to Munsell hues are proposed. Polynomial equations that predict Munsell hue from CIELAB hab suffer from poor performance as there is no direct one‐to‐one mapping. Polynomial methods that predict Munsell hue from all three L*C*abhab values also show limited performance. However, a distance‐weighted look‐up‐table model based upon the CIEDE2000 colour‐difference equation is able to predict Munsell hue to an accuracy of 1 unit of root mean square error. All transformation methods in this paper were developed using CIE illuminant C and the 2° standard observer conditions and were based on 2729 Munsell renotation colour samples.
Solubilisation kinetics of some monoazo naphthalimide disperse dyes containing butyric acid and investigation of fastness properties of the dyes on polyester
Authors: Gharanjig K , Sadeghi‐Kiakhani M , Arami M , Mahmoodi N M , Khosravi A
Published: August 2010

In this paper, the solubilisation kinetics of three novel monoazo disperse dyes based on naphthalimdes incorporating a butyric acid group were investigated in different conditions using spectrophotometry. All dyes showed a reasonable level of solubilisation in alkaline media. Kinetic studies of the solubilisation reaction of the dyes in alkaline media showed that the rate of solubilisation of all dyes is a pseudo first‐order reaction equation. The rate constants of the solubilisation reaction of the dyes in alkaline media indicated that dye 3, which is prepared by the diazotisation of 4‐amino‐n‐butyric acid 1,8‐naphthalimide and coupled with N,N‐diethy‐n‐hydroxyethyllaniline, has the highest rate of reaction and dye 1, which is prepared by the diazotisation of 4‐amino‐n‐butyric acid 1,8‐naphthalimide and coupled with N,N‐diethylaniline, has the lowest rate. The dyes were applied on polyester fabrics and their fastness properties were examined. The dyed fabrics showed a good to excellent degree of wash and rubbing fastnesses after replacing reduction clearing with alkali clearing.
Synthesis and application of yellow azo‐anthraquinone disperse dyes for polylactide fibres
Authors: He Liang , Lu Lihua , Zhang Shufen , Freeman Harold S
Published: August 2010

1‐Phenyl‐3‐methyl‐5‐pyrazolonyl azo‐anthraquinone dyes having high light fastness on polylactide fibres were synthesised from 1‐aminoanthraquinone via a diazotisation‐coupling reaction with 1‐phenyl‐3‐methyl‐5‐pyrazolones. The structures of these new dyes were confirmed using mass spectrometry, infrared and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and combustion analyses. Their dyeing behaviour on polylactide fibres was also determined, whereupon it was found that the title dyes could be applied at a relatively low dyeing temperature and that the corresponding dyed fabrics had good fastness properties.
Spectroscopic study of Alizarin Red S binding with cetyltrimethylammonium bromide at low concentrations
Authors: Gul Fatima , Khan Asad M , Shah Syed S , Nazar Muhammad F
Published: August 2010

The anthraquinoid dye, Alizarin Red S, forms an anionic moiety in aqueous solution. The complex formation of this dye was studied with the cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide, in an aqueous environment at low surfactant concentrations. The complex was studied with the help of ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. A method of continuous variation was applied to confirm the complex formation and showed that a 1:1 complex was evident from the experimental results. The equilibrium constant for the formation of the complex was determined at various temperatures. Different thermodynamic parameters, free energy of binding, enthalpy of binding and entropy of binding were calculated.
Routine Neonatal Procedures: Risk/Benefit Calculations and Informed Consent
Authors: Scanlon John W.
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: The effect on the number of tests and procedures on full‐term newborns of medical teaching, quality of medical care, research, malpractice, third party reimbursements, and metabolic screening are discussed. Aspects of informed consent are described in relation to common procedures, especially sepsis, meningitis, jaundice and circumcision. These three are selected as representing a spectrum of newborn procedures from one with much benefit and little risk, to one with little benefit and much risk. Before we can decide a risk/benefit ratio for any procedure, we must know the incidence of the disease, the severity, the effectiveness of the diagnostic procedure, and the benefits and risks of the treatment.
Bedrest Compliance for Women with Pregnancy Problems
Authors: Josten LaVohn E. , Savik Kay , Mullett Sara E. , Campbell Ronald , Vincent Pauline
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Bedrest has long been recommended for high‐risk pregnancies, but recent studies question its effectiveness in improving pregnancy outcomes. To be effective, the women for whom bedrest is recommended must practice it. This study examined degree of compliance and reason for noncompliance in women for whom bedrest was recommended, and outcomes of pregnancy among high‐risk women who complied compared with those who did not. The subjects were 326 high‐risk pregnant women who were prescribed bedrest for preterm labor, blood pressure problems, or bleeding problems. Of that group, one‐third did not comply with the bedrest recommendation. These women had more children, were not currently married, had more stress, did not attend prenatal classes, continued drinking alcohol during pregnancy, and were not trying to get pregnant compared with women who complied. Reasons for noncompliance included the need to care for children, not feeling sick, household demands, lack of partner or family support, need to work, and discomfort. The pregnancy outcomes for the women who complied were similar to those of the women who did not comply. These findings support the importance of more research on the practice of prescribing bedrest to improve pregnancy outcomes.
Adjustment to New Parenthood: Attenders versus Nonattenders at Prenatal Education Classes
Authors: Nichols Mary R
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: This longitudinal descriptive study compared the adjustment to new parenthood in two groups of first‐time mothers and fathers. Participants included 106 married couples, 58 (55%) who attended prenatal childbirth education classes and 48 (45%) who did not. The study variables included prenatal, intrapartal, and new parent experiences. All mothers and fathers completed questionnaires during the last trimester of pregnancy and one month after delivery of a healthy newborn. Fathers were present during labor and birth regardless of prenatal class attendance. The groups differed in maternal age and in maternal and paternal education levels, but did not direr in measures of prenatal attachment, paternal childbirth involvement, childbirth satisfaction, parenting sense of competence, and ease of transition to parenthood. The results suggest the need for further study of the influence of prenatal classes on becoming a new parent, and of the effects of the father's presence during childbirth on birth and new parent experiences.
Do Birth Plans Empower Women? Evaluation of a Hospital Birth Plan
Authors: Moore Margo , Hopper Ursula
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: In early 1993 a birth plan for the South Western Sydney (Australia) Area Health Service was introduced in two district hospitals. Its ease of use and effectiveness were evaluated from May to July 1993, using a questionnaire that was completed postnatally by the first 100 women who had completed a prenatal birth plan. All women were asked to complete the questionnaire regardless of whether they had used the written birth plan during labor. Ninety‐five percent of women said that they would encourage other women to use the plan. It increased their own understanding about the processes of labor and birth, and the hospital options open to them. Women said it was helpful, enabled them to express their needs and preferences, enhanced their confidence, and improved communication between them and staff. Birth plans show the commitment of health caregivers to recognizing and supporting diversity, allow for critical reappraisal of existing hospital policies and practices, and provide an opportunity for quality improvement in the context of client rights and preferences. They empower women by increasing their knowledge and understanding of birth practices, and helping them make informed choices.
Body Image Change in Pregnancy: A Comparison of Normal Weight and Overweight Primigravidas
Authors: Fox Pauline , Yamaguchi Chryseus
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: Body image in pregnancy has been linked to maternal and neonatal health. This study examined the relationship between prepregnancy body weight and body image change in primigravid women. Methods: Through a self‐administered, free‐response questionnaire, 76 primigravidas of at least 30 weeks' gestation described their feelings about current appearance and body shape and compared these to prepregnancy feelings. Respondents also completed the Body Shape Questionnaire to measure current concern with body shape. Results: Women who were overweight before pregnancy were more likely to have had a positive change in body image when they were ut more than 30 weeks' gestation. Women who were normal weight before pregnancy were more likely to have had a negative change. Despite overweight women's positive changes, their body shape concerns were more negative than those of normal weight women. Conclusions: Our study highlights the relationship between social values, prepregnancy body weight, and body image change during pregnancy. Some women may benefit from discussing their experiences in a patient‐centered context.
Hospital Breastfeeding Policies in the Philadelphia Area: A Comparison with the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding
Authors: Kovach Andrea Crivelli
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: The purpose of this study was to describe the current status of hospital breastfeeding policies and practices in the southeastern Pennsylvania Delaware Valley and the degree to which the hospitals are implementing the WHO/UNICEF Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. Methods: A descriptive case study design was used to collect data. From 38 hospitals with maternity services in the Philadelphia area, maternal and child health directors, nurse managers, staff nurses, lactation consultants, and childbirth educators were interviewed to determine each hospital's policies and practices, using a questionnaire addressing formal and informal breastfeeding policies. Information from the interviews was used to compare each hospital's policies with the WHO/UNICEF Baby‐Friendly Hospital Initiative. A classification system was developed to classify hospitals by level of implementation for each of the Ten Steps. Results: Most surveyed hospitals were implementing four of the steps and partially implementing the remaining six. Thirty‐seven percent of the surveyed hospitals were classified as high implementers and 63 percent as partial implementers of the Ten Steps overall. Key issues that affect implementation of each step were identified through in‐depth discussion of several questions. Conclusions: Areas identified as needing the greatest attention by hospitals were health care professional breastfeeding education, breastfeeding initiation, and support of the breastfeeding mother, particularly in the postdischarge stage.
Expectant Parents' Experience with Fatigue and Sleep During Pregnancy
Authors: Elek Susan M. , Hudson Diane Brage , Fleck Margaret Ofe
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: Although both expectant mothers and expectant fathers complain of fatigue during the last trimester of pregnancy, studies have focused exclusively on mothers. This pilot study examined parents' levels of morning or evening fatigue, number of uninterrupted sleep periods and length of sleep during the last trimester of pregnancy; and the relationship of sleep to parents' reports of fatigue. Methods: Data were collected from 24 midwestern, nulliparous couples, who completed the Visual Analog Scale for Fatigue each morning and each evening on 4 consecutive days during the last trimester. Concurrently, the couples recorded sleep and wake periods in an activity diary. Results: Expectant mothers but not expectant fathers reported increasing levels of fatigue, especially morning fatigue, as the pregnancy progressed. Expectant fathers and mothers did not differ either in the night‐time mean number of minutes of sleep obtained, or in the mean number of night‐time uninterrupted 90‐minute sleep cycles obtained. Fatigue and sleep were not significantly related for either mothers or fathers, Conclusions: These findings support the multidimensional nature of fatigue and indicate a need for perinatal health care givers to develop individualized interventions for mothers during the last trimester of pregnancy. Fathers should also participate in future research of factors influencing the prenatal and postpartum experience.
Prenatal HIV Screening in Pregnant Women: A Medical‐Legal Review
Authors: Oldenettel Debra , Dye Timothy D. , Artal Raul
Published: August 2010

Identifying pregnant women's human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection status provides them with the opportunity to seek appropriate treatment and to take measures to prevent vertical and horizontal transmission. Prenatal screening program options include targeting at‐risk women, testing on a voluntary basis, or mandating prenatal HIV screening. When examining these options, the number of cases identified, programmatic costs, long‐term health care costs, and legal implications must all be considered. Research indicates that targeting at‐risk women misses a significant percentage of seropositive women, although programmatic costs may be lower. It is difficult to ascertain the difference between voluntary and mandatory programs with respect to the number of cases identified and treated. As a result, long‐term savings are difficult to calculate. Mandatory programs would have the greatest direct costs and place the greatest burden on the woman's constitutional rights. By making HIV counseling and testing a routine component of prenatal care, voluntary programs could achieve the benefits of prenatal HIV screening without violating the woman's civil liberties. (BIRTH 24:3, September 1997)