bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heterochrony and allometry: the analysis of evolutionary change in ontogeny
Authors: KLINGENBERG CHRISTIAN PETER
Published: August 2010

The connection between development and evolution has become the focus of an increasing amount of research in recent years, and heterochrony has long been a key concept in this relation. Heterochrony is defined as evolutionary change in rates and timing of developmental processes; the dimension of time is therefore an essential part in studies of heterochrony. Over the past two decades, evolutionary biologists have used several methodological frameworks to analyse heterochrony, which differ substantially in the way they characterize evolutionary changes in ontogenies and in the resulting classification, although they mostly use the same terms. This review examines how these methods compare ancestral and descendant ontogenies, emphasizing their differences and the potential for contradictory results from analyses using different frameworks. One of the two principal methods uses a clock as a graphical display for comparisons of size, shape and age at a particular ontogenic stage, whereas the other characterizes a developmental process by its time of onset, rate, and time of cessation. The literature on human heterochrony provides particularly clear examples of how these differences produce apparent contradictions when applied to the same problem. Developmental biologists recently have extended the concept of heterochrony to the earliest stages of development and have applied it at the cellular and molecular scale. This extension brought considerations of developmental mechanisms and genetics into the study of heterochrony, which previously was based primarily on phenomenological characterizations of morphological change in ontogeny. Allometry is the pattern of covariation among several morphological traits or between measures of size and shape; unlike heterochrony, allometry does not deal with time explicitly. Two main approaches to the study of allometry are distinguished, which differ in the way they characterize organismal form. One approach defines shape as proportions among measurements, based on considerations of geometric similarity, whereas the other focuses on the covariation among measurements in ontogeny and evolution. Both are related conceptually and through the use of similar algebra. In addition, there are close connections between heterochrony and changes in allometric growth trajectories, although there is no one‐to‐one correspondence. These relationships and outline links between different analytical frameworks are discussed.
The demands of incubation and avian clutch size
Authors: THOMSON DAVID L. , MONAGHAN PAT , FURNESS ROBERT W.
Published: August 2010

We reviewed information on the demands of incubation to examine whether these could influence the optimal clutch size of birds. The results indicate that appreciable metabolic costs of incubation commonly exist, and that the incubation of enlarged clutches can impose penalties on birds. In 23 studies on 19 species, incubation metabolic rate (IMR) was not elevated above the metabolic rate of resting non‐incubating birds (RMR), but contrary to the physiological predictions of King and others, IMR was greater than RMR in 15 studies on 15 species. Across species, IMR was substantially above basal metabolic rate (BMR), averaging 1.606 × BMR. Of six studies on three species performed under thermo‐neutral conditions, none found IMR to be in excess of RMR. IMRs measured exclusively within the thermo‐neutral zone averaged only 1.08 × BMR contrasting with the significantly higher figure of 1.72 × BMR under wider conditions. 16 of 17 studies on procellariiforms found IMR below RMR, indicating a significant difference between this and other orders. We could find no other taxonomic, or ecological factors which had clear effects on IMR. Where clutch size was adjusted experimentally during incubation, larger clutches were associated with: significantly lower percentage hatching success in 11 of 19 studies; longer incubation periods in eight of ten studies; greater loss of adult body condition in two of five studies; and higher adult energy expenditure in eight of nine studies. Given that incubation does involve metabolic costs and given that the demands of incubation increase sufficiently with clutch size to affect breeding performance, we propose that the optimal clutch size of birds may in part by shaped by the number of eggs the parents can afford to incubate.
An ecosystem‐level perspective of allelopathy
Authors: WARDLE DAVID A. , NILSSON MARIE‐CHARLOTTE , GALLET CHRISTIANE , ZACKRISSON OLLE
Published: August 2010

Allelopathy is an interference mechanism by which plants release chemicals which affect other plants; while it has often been proposed as a mechanism for influencing plant populations and communities, its acceptance by plant ecologists has been limited because of methodological problems as well as difficulties of relating the results of bioassays used for testing allelopathy to vegetation patterns in the field. Here we argue that the concept of allelopathy is more appropriately applied at the ecosystem‐level, rather than the traditional population/community level of resolution. Firstly, we consider the wide ranging effects of secondary metabolites (widely regarded as allelochemicals) on organisms and processes which regulate ecosystem function, including herbivory, decomposition and nutrient mineralization. It is apparent that plants with allelopathic potential against other organisms induce net changes in ecosystem properties, which may in turn impact upon the plant community in the longer term. We then illustrate these concepts using two contrasting examples of how invasive plant species with allelopathic potential may alter ecosystem properties through the production of secondary metabolites, i.e.Carduus nutans(nodding thistle) in New Zealand pastures andEmpetrum hermaphroditum(crowberry) in Swedish boreal forests. In both cases the production of secondary metabolites by the invasive species induces important effects on other organisms and key processes, which help determine how the ecosystem functions and ultimately the structure of the plant community. These examples help demonstrate that the concept of allelopathy is most effectively applied at the ecosystem‐level of resolution, rather than at the population‐level (i.e. plant‐plant interference).
Flight adaptations in Palaeozoic Palaeoptera (Insecta)
Authors: WOOTTON ROBIN J. , KUKALOVÁ‐PECK JARMILA
Published: August 2010

The use of available morphological characters in the interpretation of the flight of insects known only as fossils is reviewed, and the principles are then applied to elucidating the flight performance and techniques of Palaeozoic palaeopterous insects. Wing‐loadings and pterothorax mass total mass ratios are estimated and aspect ratios and shape‐descriptors are derived for a selection of species, and the functional significance of wing characters discussed. Carboniferous and Permian ephemeropteroids (‘mayflies’) show major differences from modern forms in morphology and presumed flight ability, whereas Palaeozoic odonatoids (‘dragonflies’) show early adaptation to aerial predation on a wide size‐range of prey, closely paralleling modern dragonflies and damselflies in shape and wing design but lacking some performance‐related structural refinements. The extensive adaptive radiation in form and flight technique in the haustellate orders Palaeodictyoptera, Megasecoptera, Diaphanopterodea and Permothemistida is examined and discussed in the context of Palaeozoic ecology.
Building large trees by combining phylogenetic information: a complete phylogeny of the extant Carnivora (Mammalia)
Authors: BININDA‐EMONDS OLAF R. P. , GITTLEMAN JOHN L. , PURVIS ANDY
Published: August 2010

One way to build larger, more comprehensive phylogenies is to combine the vast amount of phylogenetic information already available. We review the two main strategies for accomplishing this (combining raw dataversuscombining trees), but employ a relatively new variant of the latter: supertree construction. The utility of one supertree technique, matrix representation using parsimony analysis (MRP), is demonstrated by deriving a complete phylogeny for all 271 extant species of the Garnivora from 177 literature sources. Beyond providing a ‘consensus’ estimate of carnivore phylogeny, the tree also indicates taxa for which the relationships remain controversial (e.g. the red panda; within canids, felids, and hyaenids) or have not been studied in any great detail (e.g. herpestids, viverrids, and intrageneric relationships in the procyonids). Times of divergence throughout the tree were also estimated from 74 literature sources based on both fossil and molecular data. We use the phylogeny to show that some lineages within the Mustelinae and Canidae contain significantly more species than expected for their age, illustrating the tree's utility for studies of macroevolution. It will also provide a useful foundation for comparative and conservational studies involving the carnivores.
Trophic‐dynamic considerations in relating species diversity to ecosystem resilience
Authors: JOHNSON KRIS H.
Published: August 2010

Complexity in the networks of interactions among and between the living and abiotic components forming ecosystems confounds the ability of ecologists to predict the economic consequences of perturbations such as species deletions in nature. Such uncertainty hampers prudent decision making about where and when to invest most intensively in species conservation programmes. Demystifying ecosystem responses to biodiversity alterations may be best achieved through the study of the interactions allowing biotic communities to compensate internally for population changes in terms of contributing to ecosystem function, or their intrinsic functional redundancy. Because individual organisms are the biologically discrete working components of ecosystems and because environmental changes are perceived at the scale of the individual, a mechanistic understanding of functional redundancy will hinge upon understanding how individuals’ behaviours influence population dynamics in the complex community setting. Here, I use analytical and graphical modelling to construct a conceptual framework for predicting the conditions under which varying degrees of interspecific functional redundancy can be found in dynamic ecosystems. The framework is founded on principles related to food web successional theory, which provides some evolutionary insights for mechanistically linking functional roles of discrete, interacting organisms with the dynamics of ecosystems because energy is the currency both for ecological fitness and for food web commerce. Net productivity is considered the most contextually relevant ecosystem process variable because of its socioeconomic significance and because it ultimately subsumes all biological processes and interactions. Redundancy relative to productivity is suggested to manifest most directly as compensatory niche shifts among adaptive foragers in exploitation ecosystems, facilitating coexistence and enhancing ecosystem recovery after disturbances which alter species’ relative abundances, such as extinctions. The framework further explicates how resource scarcity and environmental stochasticity may constitute ‘ecosystem legacies’ influencing the emergence of redundancy by shaping the background conditions for foraging behaviour evolution and, consequently, the prevalence of compensatory interactions. Because it generates experimentally testable predictions for a priori hypothesis testing about when and where varying degrees of functional redundancy are likely to be found in food webs, the framework may be useful for advancing toward the reliable knowledge of biodiversity and ecosystem function relations necessary for prudent prioritization of conservation programmes. The theory presented here introduces explanation of how increasing diversity can have a negative influence on ecosystem sustainability by altering the environment for biotic interactions ‐ and there by changing functional compensability among biota ‐ under particular conditions.
Origin and evolution of primate social organisation: a reconstruction
Authors: MÜLLER ALEXANDRA E. , THALMANN URS
Published: August 2010

The evolution and origin of primate social organisation has attracted the attention of many researchers, and a solitary pattern, believed to be present in most nocturnal prosimians, has been generally considered as the most primitive system. Nocturnal prosimians are in fact mostly seen alone during their nightly activities and therefore termed’ solitary foragers’, but that does not mean that they are not social. Moreover, designating their social organisation as’ solitary’, implies that their way of life is uniform in all species. It has, however, emerged over the last decades that all of them exhibit not only some kind of social network but also that those networks differ among species. There is a need to classify these social networks in the same manner as with group‐living (gregarious) animals if we wish to link up the different forms of primate social organisation with ecological, morphological or phylogenetic variables. In this review, we establish a basic classification based on spatial relations and sociality in order to describe and cope properly with the social organisation patterns of the different species of nocturnal prosimians and other mammals that do not forage in cohesive groups. In attempting to trace the ancestral pattern of primate social organisation, the Malagasy mouse and dwarf lemurs and the Afro‐Asian bushbabies and lorises are of special interest because they are thought to approach the ancestral conditions most closely. These species have generally been believed to exhibit a dispersed harem system as their pattern of social organisation (‘dispersed’ means that individuals forage solitarily but exhibit a social network). Therefore, the ancestral pattern of primate social organisation was inferred to be a dispersed harem. In fact, new field data on cheirogaleids combined with a review of patterns of social organisation in strepsirhines (lemurs, bushbabies and lorises) revealed that they exhibit either dispersed multi‐male systems or dispersed monogamy rather than a dispersed harem system. Therefore, the concept of a dispersed harem system as the ancestral condition of primate social organisation can no longer be supported. In combination with data on social organisation patterns in ‘primitive’ placentals and marsupials, and in monotremes, it is in fact most probable that promiscuity is the ancestral pattern for mammalian social organisation. Subsequently, a dispersed multi‐male system derived from promiscuity should be regarded as the ancestral condition for primates. We further suggest that the gregarious patterns of social organisation in Aotus and Avahi, and the dispersed form in Tarsius evolved from the gregarious patterns of diurnal primates rather than from the dispersed nocturnal type. It is consequently proposed that, in addition to Aotus and Tarsius, Avahi is also secondarily nocturnal.
Thyroid hormones and their effects: a new perspective
Authors: HULBERT A. J.
Published: August 2010

The thyroid hormones are very hydrophobic and those that exhibit biological activity are 3′,5′,3,5‐Ltetraiodothyronine (T4), 3′,5,3‐L‐triiodothyronine (T3), 3′,5′,3‐L‐triiodothyronine (rT3) and 3,5,‐Ldiiodothyronine (3,5‐T2). At physiological pH, dissociation of the phenolic ‐OH group of these iodothyronines is an important determinant of their physical chemistry that impacts on their biological effects. When non‐ionized these iodothyronines are strongly amphipathic. It is proposed that iodothyronines are normal constituents of biological membranes in vertebrates. In plasma of adult vertebrates, unbound T4 and T3 are regulated in the picomolar range whilst protein‐bound T4 and T3 are maintained in the nanomolar range. The function of thyroid‐hormone‐binding plasma proteins is to ensure an even distribution throughout the body. Various iodothyronines are produced by three types of membrane‐bound cellular deiodinase enzyme systems in vertebrates. The distribution of deiodinases varies between tissues and each has a distinct developmental profile. Thyroid hormones have many effects in vertebrates. It is proposed that there are several modes of action of these hormones.(1) The nuclear receptor mode is especially important in the thyroid hormone axis that controls plasma and cellular levels of these hormones.(2) These hormones are strongly associated with membranes in tissues and normally rigidify these membranes.(3) They also affect the acyl composition of membrane bilayers and it is suggested that this is due to the cells responding to thyroid‐hormone‐induced membrane rigidification. Both their immediate effects on the physical state of membranes and the consequent changes in membrane composition result in several other thyroid hormone effects. Effects on metabolism may be due primarily to membrane acyl changes. There are other actions of thyroid hormones involving membrane receptors and influences on cellular interactions with the extracellular matrix. The effects of thyroid hormones are reviewed and appear to be combinations of these various modes of action. During development, vertebrates show a surge in T4 and other thyroid hormones, as well as distinctive profiles in the appearance of the deiodinase enzymes and nuclear receptors. Evidence from the use of analogues supports multiple modes of action. Re‐examination of data from the early 1960s supports a membrane action. Findings from receptor ‘knockout’ mice supports an important role for receptors in the development of the thyroid axis. These iodothyronines may be better thought of as ‘vitamone’ ‐like molecules than traditional hormonal messengers.
Chromosome evolution in the Salmonidae (Pisces): an update
Authors: PHILLIPS RUTH , RÁB PETR
Published: August 2010

The karyotypes of salmonid fishes including taxa in the three subfamilies Coregoninae, Thymallinae and Salmoninae are described. This review is an update of the (Hartley, 1987) review of the chromosomes of salmonid fishes. As described in the previous review, the karyotypes of salmonid fishes fall into two main categories based on chromosome numbers: the type A karyotypes have diploid numbers close to 80 with approximately 100 chromosome arms (2n=80, NF=100), and the type B karyotypes have diploid numbers close to 60 with approximately 100 chromosome arms (2n=60, NF=100). In this paper we have proposed additional sub categories based on variation in the number of chromosome arms: the A″ type with NF=110‐120, the A″ type with NF greater than 140, and the B″ type with NF less than 80. Two modes of chromosome evolution are found in the salmonids: in the Coregoninae and the Salmoninae the chromosomes have evolved by centric fusions of the Robertsonian type decreasing chromosome numbers (2n) while retaining chromosome arm numbers (NF) close to that found in the hypothetical tetraploid ancestor so that most extant taxa have either type A or type B karyotypes. In the Thymallinae, the chromosomes have evolved by inversions so that chromosome arm numbers (NF) have increased but chromosome numbers (2n) close to the karyotype of the hypothetical tetraploid ancestor have been retained and all taxa have type A″ karyotypes. Most of the taxa with type B karyotypes in the Coregoninae and Salmoninae are members of the genus Oncorhynchus, although at least one example of type B karyotypes is found in all of the other genera. These taxa either have an anadromous life history or are found in specialized lacustrine environments. Selection for increases or decreases in genetic recombination as proposed by Qumsiyeh, 1994 could have been involved in the evolution of chromosome number in salmonid fishes.
Coincidence, coevolution, or causation? DNA content, cellsize, and the C‐value enigma
Authors: GREGORY T. RYAN
Published: August 2010

Variation in DNA content has been largely ignored as a factor in evolution, particularly following the advent of sequence‐based approaches to genomic analysis. The significant genome size diversity among organisms (more than 200000‐fold among eukaryotes) bears no relationship to organismal complexity and both the origins and reasons for the clearly non‐random distribution of this variation remain unclear. Several theories have been proposed to explain this ‘C‐value enigma’ (heretofore known as the ‘C‐value paradox’), each of which can be described as either a ‘mutation pressure’ or ‘optimal DNA’ theory. Mutation pressure theories consider the large portion of non‐coding DNA in eukaryotic genomes as either ‘junk’ or ‘selfish’ DNA and are important primarily in considerations of the origin of secondary DNA. Optimal DNA theories differ from mutation pressure theories by emphasizing the strong link between DNA content and cell and nuclear volumes. While mutation pressure theories generally explain this association with cell size as coincidental, thenucleoskeletaltheory proposes a coevolutionary interaction between nuclear and cell volume, with DNA content adjusted adaptively following shifts in cell size. Each of these approaches to the C‐value enigma is problematic for a variety of reasons and the preponderance of the available evidence instead favours thenucleotypictheory which postulates a causal link between bulk DNA amount and cell volume. Under this view, variation in DNA content is under direct selection via its impacts on cellular and organismal parameters. Until now, no satisfactory mechanism has been presented to explain this nucleotypic effect. However, recent advances in the study of cell cycle regulation suggest a possible ‘gene‐nucleus interaction model’ which may account for it. The present article provides a detailed review of the debate surrounding the C‐value enigma, the various theories proposed to explain it, and the evidence in favour of a causal connection between DNA content and cell size. In addition, a new model of nucleotypic influence is developed, along with suggestions for further empirical investigation. Finally, some evolutionary implications of genome size diversity are considered, and a broadening of the traditional ‘biological hierarchy’ is recommended.
Are green islands red herrings? Significance of green islands in plant interactions with pathogens and pests
Authors: Walters Dale R. , McRoberts Neil , Fitt Bruce D. L.
Published: August 2010

The term green island was first used to describe an area of living, green tissue surrounding a site of infection by an obligately biotrophic fungal pathogen, differentiated from neighbouring yellowing, senescent tissue. However, it has now been used to describe symptoms formed in response to necrotrophic fungal pathogens, virus infection and infestation by certain insects. In leaves infected by obligate biotrophs such as rust and powdery mildew pathogens, green islands are areas where senescence is retarded, photosynthetic activity is maintained and polyamines accumulate. We propose such areas, in which both host and pathogen cells are alive, be termed green bionissia. By contrast, we propose that green areas associated with leaf damage caused by toxins produced by necrotrophic fungal pathogens be termed green necronissia. A range of biotrophic/hemibiotrophic fungi and leaf‐mining insects produce cytokinins and it has been suggested that this cytokinin secretion may be responsible for the green island formation. Indeed, localised cytokinin accumulation may be a common mechanism responsible for green island formation in interactions of plants with biotrophic fungi, viruses and insects. Models have been developed to study if green island formation is pathogen‐mediated or host‐mediated. They suggest that green bionissia on leaves infected by biotrophic fungal pathogens represent zones of host tissue, altered physiologically to allow the pathogen maximum access to nutrients early in the interaction, thus supporting early sporulation and increasing pathogen fitness. They lead to the suggestion that green islands are ‘red herrings’, representing no more than the consequence of the infection process and discrete changes in leaf senescence.
Chronic stroke recovery after combined BCI training and physiotherapy: A case report
Authors: Caria Andrea , Weber Cornelia , Brötz Doris , Ramos Ander , Ticini Luca F. , Gharabaghi Alireza , Braun Christoph , Birbaumer Niels
Published: August 2010

A case of partial recovery after stroke and its associated brain reorganization in a chronic patient after combined brain computer interface (BCI) training and physiotherapy is presented. A multimodal neuroimaging approach based on fMRI and diffusion tensor imaging was used to investigate plasticity of the brain motor system in parallel with longitudinal clinical assessments. A convergent association between functional and structural data in the ipsilesional premotor areas was observed. As a proof of concept investigation, these results encourage further research on a specific role of BCI on brain plasticity and recovery after stroke.
Radiofrequency ablation for selective reduction in complex monochorionic pregnancies
Authors: Paramasivam G , Wimalasundera R , Wiechec M , Zhang E , Saeed F , Kumar S
Published: August 2010

Please cite this paper as: Paramasivam G, Wimalasundera R, Wiechec M, Zhang E, Saeed F, Kumar S. Radiofrequency ablation for selective reduction in complex monochorionic pregnancies. BJOG 2010;117:1294–1298.

Monochorionic pregnancies present unique challenges for selective fetal reduction, as vaso‐occlusive procedures are required to ablate blood flow, usually in the umbilical cord, to achieve asystole in the selected fetus. We describe a case series of 35 monochorionic pregnancies (27 twins and eight triplets) undergoing selective fetal reduction using radiofrequency ablation. All procedures were performed under local anaesthesia. The procedure was technically successful in all cases. The live born rate was 88.6%. One (2.9%) woman miscarried within 2 weeks of the procedure, and two (5.7%) babies were stillborn. The median gestation at delivery was 36 weeks of gestation (range 24–41 weeks). There were no maternal complications. The median gestational age at procedure was 17 + 3 weeks (range from 12 + 5 to 27 + 4 weeks). All women had antenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) post procedure. There were two (5.7%) cases of abnormal brain imaging. Our experience suggests that radiofrequency ablation is a safe and effective procedure for fetal reduction in complicated monochorionic pregnancies.
Efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin in uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease: the MONALISA study
Authors: Judlin P , Liao Q , Liu Z , Reimnitz P , Hampel B , Arvis P
Published: August 2010

Please cite this paper as: Judlin P, Liao Q, Liu Z, Reimnitz P, Hampel B, Arvis P. Efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin in uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease: the MONALISA study. BJOG 2010;117:1475–1484.

Objective  To evaluate the efficacy and safety of moxifloxacin versus levofloxacin plus metronidazole in uncomplicated pelvic inflammatory disease (uPID) in Asia.

Design  Prospective, randomised, double‐blind, double‐dummy, parallel‐group study.

Setting  Multicentre, multinational study in the inpatient and/or outpatient setting.

Population  Women (aged ≥18 years) with uPID (defined as PID with no pelvic or tubo‐ovarian abscess on pelvic ultrasonography and at laparoscopic examination) and not requiring intravenous treatment.

Methods  Women received a 14‐day course of either oral moxifloxacin, 400 mg once daily, or oral levofloxacin, 500 mg once daily, plus oral metronidazole, 500 mg twice daily. Additionally, a single dose of ceftriaxone, 250 mg intramuscularly, was administered to women who had a positive screening test for Neisseria gonorrhoeae.

Main outcome measures  The primary measure of efficacy was clinical response at test‐of‐cure (TOC) (7–14 days after the last dose of study drug) in the per‐protocol population. Noninferiority of moxifloxacin to the comparator regimen was demonstrated if lower limit of 95% CI was >−15%. Other measures were clinical response during therapy and at 4‐week follow up, microbiological response at TOC, and safety.

Results  A total of 460 women were randomised to the study. For the primary measure of efficacy (clinical cure at TOC), moxifloxacin was noninferior to levofloxacin plus metronidazole (moxifloxacin: 152/194, 78.4%; comparator 155/190, 81.6%; 95% CI −10.7 to +4.9). The most commonly isolated pathogens at baseline included Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Chlamydia trachomatis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Peptostreptococcus spp., Proteus mirabilis, Streptococcus agalactiae and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Bacteriological success rates were high and comparable between treatment arms (microbiologically valid populations, moxifloxacin 27/30, 90.0%; comparator 22/26, 84.6%; 95% CI −12.7 to +20.3). Both treatments were well tolerated.

Conclusions  Moxifloxacin monotherapy, 400 mg once daily for 14 days, is an effective and well‐tolerated oral treatment for women with uPID.
On the Bearing Failure of Laminated Composite Pin‐Loaded Joints: Exploitation of Semi‐Analytical Solutions for the Determination of the Stress State
Authors: Derdas C. , Kostopoulos V.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  The present work deals with the development and verification of a set of analytical solutions for the bearing failure of single lap composite joints, which are applied on a composite joint tested experimentally. The stress field originating from the solution is calculated and progressive failure criteria are applied, verifying their applicability as a fast way of calculating bearing failure of a joint. Additionally, the extracted stress field from the results is introduced as a load to the finite element model of the joint under evaluation, and the equivalency of this method is compared and proven against typical implicit non‐linear contact analysis. The major advantage of the proposed methodology is that the highly non‐linear contact problem is circumvented using the stress distribution at the hole boundary as an actual load and thus transforming the analysis to a linear one, providing considerable agreement to the exact high‐cost numerical solution.
The Effect of Steel Plates with Shear Studs for Weak Column–Strong Beam Connections in the Reinforced Concrete Structures under Earthquake Effect
Authors: Büyükkaragöz A. , Arslan A.
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  In this study, the effect of steel plates with shear studs used in the weak column–strong beam connections was investigated both experimentally and analytically. Five RC specimens were tested under cyclic loading in the experimental programme. Steel plates with shear studs in the column were used along the connection area. The specimens were derived from the exterior joint of a frame. As the main parameters, the width of shear stud heads and their spacing on the steel plates were changed to investigate their effects on the weak column. The test results confirmed that shear studs improved the strength and stiffness of the specimens. The control specimen collapsed because of joint failure, while the other four specimens collapsed because of bending at the bottom of the beam showing ductile behaviour. The comparison of experimental results with the analytical results obtained from ANSYS finite element programme showed similar outputs from the aspects of behaviour.
Strategies of women patrons of music and theatre in Rome: Maria Mancini Colonna, Queen Christina of Sweden, and women of their circles
Authors: DE LUCCA VALERIA
Published: August 2010

Cultural life in late seventeenth‐century Rome was enormously enriched by women's support of music and musicians, theatre, and public entertainments. This essay explores the patronage of Maria Mancini Colonna, Queen Christina of Sweden and women of their circles, the resonance of their sponsorship of musical or theatrical events in Rome during the 1660s and 1670s, and their self‐fashioning as patrons. The picture that results from this investigation shows that patronage offered women the possibility to express their desires, accomplish diplomatic endeavours, and even respond to the criticisms of their detractors in acceptable ways.

Furthermore, by examining mostly chronicles compiled by their male contemporaries (avvisi di Roma), correspondence, and memoirs, this essay aims also at exploring the challenges and methodological avenues available to scholars whose study of women's patronage cannot be supported by the proof of financial support to a musician or to sponsor an event.

The much broader idea of patronage that emerges from such a study indicates that the path is open for music historians for more studies on women's struggles to produce, inspire, influence, and commission music, theatrical entertainment, and cultural activities in early modern Rome.
Colour dependency of textile samples on the surface texture
Authors: Gorji Kandi Saeideh , Amani Tehran Mohammad , Rahmati Mohammad
Published: August 2010

In this paper, the perceptual and instrumental effects of texture on colour is investigated, using 63 textile samples, in nine colour centres and seven texture structures. The effectiveness of texture is evaluated by assessing colour differences between six texture samples and a standard texture in each colour group. Experimental results show that the sample texture has a significant effect on the measured and perceived colour and its influence depends on the colour centre of the sample. The magnitude of texture effect is more dependent on the texture type than on its coarseness. A new term to evaluate texture difference of a pair of textile samples was defined using a Gabor filter (Gabor texture difference). The visual colour changes gave a good correlation with Gabor texture difference values; however, the colour of the samples affected this correlation. So the colour change, as a result of texture differences, depends on two independent variables consisting of the Gabor texture difference and the colour centre of samples.
Colour management of a low‐cost four‐colour ink‐jet printing system on textiles
Authors: Zhang Yuqian , Cheung Vien , Westland Stephen , Beverley Katherine J
Published: August 2010

A low‐cost four‐colour (RBYK) dye‐based ink‐jet printing system for textiles was introduced in this study, in which red and blue inks were employed instead of the magenta and cyan inks used in half‐tone printing. The basis of a colour‐management system for this device was developed by determining the mapping between XYZ tristimulus values of output colours and the digital RBYK values using polynomial transforms. A second‐order equation was found to give the best performance with an average characterisation error of under 7 CIELAB units.
Biosynthesis and synthesis of natural colours
Authors: Dawson Timothy L
Published: August 2010

In nature, the detection of colours requires an organism having some type of eye with a retina and two or three types of photoreceptor connected to a nervous system, which can interpret the signals received. Evidence that certain simple organisms were coloured 1 billion years ago, and some more advanced creatures, which could have possessed eyes a few hundreds of million years ago, is exemplified. A vast array of chemicals essential to life are produced by living organisms and their biosynthesis depends upon individual genetic patterns, which determine the enzyme catalysts involved. Plants photosynthesise many pigments, which are essential for them to maximise the absorption of energy from the sun, while others offer protection from any harmful radiation. Such pigments, for example chlorophylls and the carotenoids, flavonoids and betalains, have traditionally been used as natural dyes, food colorants and medicines. This review compares the chemical processes involved in their biosynthesis and the laboratory methods adopted to confirm their chemical structure. Some engineered biosynthetic methods are now used for commercial production of natural colours and these methods may involve the controversial use of genetic engineering.
Absorption of nanoparticles by wool
Authors: King David G , Pierlot Anthony P
Published: August 2010

Wool was treated with inorganic and polymer‐based nanoparticles. The diffusion of nanoparticles into wool appears to be dependent on electrostatic interactions. In particular, it is optimised at low pH in which there are very few anionic groups on the wool fibre; the nanoparticles also need to have sufficient charge to maintain their stability as dispersion. The findings support the view that the cell membrane complex and other low sulphur regions are the main route of entry for both molecular and macromolecular treatment chemicals. The use of this technique to treat wool may lead to new coloration effects and other functions such as antimicrobial action.
Adsorption behaviour of azo disperse dyes on polyurethane fibre
Authors: Qian Hong‐Fei , Song Xin‐Yuan
Published: August 2010

Adsorption isotherms of disperse dyes were measured and the surfaces of dyed polyurethane, cellulose diacetate and polylactic acid fibres were observed using a scanning electron microscope and compared. Obvious crystal growth of the dyes occurred on the surface of the polyurethane fibres. The maximum dye uptake on polyurethane fibres and the degree of crystal growth varied greatly with the dye type. Factors such as the dye affinity for the fibre, crystallisation properties and dye solubility in the dyebath affect the sorbed state of the dye on the fibre surface. A mechanism is proposed for crystal formation on the fibre surface during dyeing of polyurethane fibre with disperse dyes.
Structure–property relationships for azo disperse dyes on polyurethane fibre
Authors: Qian Hong‐Fei , Song Xin‐Yuan
Published: August 2010

Using two series of monoazo disperse dyes, the relationships between the molecular structure of dye and its dyeing properties, such as adsorption behaviour, fastness properties and distribution on polyurethane–polyester blends, were thoroughly investigated. Correlation analysis of experiment data revealed that the partition coefficient between octanol and water (CLogP) is the main factor affecting dye sorption. A greater level of CLogP tends to have a greater isotherm coefficient and better rubbing and washing fastness on polyurethane fibre, as well as a greater distribution ratio between the components of the blend. The dye dipole moment is negatively correlated with various degrees of washing fastness. The dye with two terminal hydroxy groups exhibited notable sorption on the polyurethane component and has the largest partition ratio on polyurethane–polyester in the blend. Corresponding regression analysis equations were identified.
Improvement in the dyeability of viscose
Authors: Chattopadhyay D P
Published: August 2010

The effect of alkaline pretreatment with sodium hydroxide and sodium zincate on the dyeability of viscose has been studied. Both agents could enhance the dye accessibility to viscose, but sodium hydroxide was found to be more effective compared with sodium zincate. The maximum exhaustion of different reactive dyes was found with 7.5% w/v sodium hydroxide pretreated samples. Both the rate of dyeing and final dyebath exhaustion of viscose was significantly improved after such pretreatment. The pretreatment could also effectively replace the electrolyte requirement for some reactive dyes. The alkaline pretreatment also generated higher colour depth on the printed fabric. The change in surface morphology of the fibre as a result of sodium hydroxide treatment was examined through scanning electron microphotography. The weight loss as a result of this treatment was critically studied. 10% w/v sodium hydroxide was found to cause maximum loss in weight of the viscose fibre.
Decolorisation of Remazol vinyl sulphone reactive dyes by potassium permanganate
Authors: Saeed Rehana , Mughal M Javaid , Naeem M , Nizami S S , Usmani Tanzile H
Published: August 2010

Three Remazol vinyl sulphone‐based reactive dyes were selected to investigate their decolorisation by potassium permanganate, in relation to pH, concentration of potassium permanganate and time. The amount of colour removal was measured by ultraviolet–visual spectrometry and it was found that potassium permanganate only partially degraded the dye solution; this was also proved by the percent removal of chemical oxygen demand and total organic carbon. Decolorisation was observed to increase when the pH of the dye solution was decreased. Up to a pH level of 5, the decolorisation efficiency is very much slower, but as the pH level shifts towards 2 the rate of decolorisation becomes relatively faster, while a further decrease in pH results in a rapid change in decolorisation. The concentration of potassium permanganate also showed significant effects on the decolorisation. Rapid decolorisation was observed within 10 min for all three dyes, but after that time the decolorisation became slower.
Di(methylsulphonyl)quinacridone: synthesis, characterisation and application in nylon
Authors: Visintin Pamela M , Mims Robert W
Published: August 2010

The first quinacridone derivative with methylsulphonyl substituents, 2,9‐di(methylsulphonyl)quinacridone, has been synthesised using two new sulphur‐containing intermediates, 2,5‐di(4‐methylthioanilino)‐terephthalic acid and 2,5‐di‐(4‐methylsulphonylanilino)terephthalic acid. The key step in synthesising 2,9‐di(methylsulphonyl)quinacridone involves the controlled and complete oxidation of the sulphide groups to their respective sulphonyl groups. The oxidation process is unique in that the presence of a catalyst is not required. The two different polymorphs of 2,9‐di(methylsulphonyl)quinacridone range in colour from red to orange and exhibit extremely low solubility in organic solvents, water and acidic or basic media. When incorporated into nylon 6 by the extrusion/injection moulding method, both crystal forms of this pigment display excellent thermal and chemical stability up to a moulding temperature of 302 °C. The nylon–quinacridone compositions exhibit a high degree of light fastness, with a CIELAB ΔE*ab (colour difference) value >1.0 after a 200‐h exposure time at 6500 W.
Styryl dyes – synthesis and applications during the last 15 years
Authors: Deligeorgiev Todor , Vasilev Aleksey , Kaloyanova Stefka , Vaquero Juan J
Published: August 2010

One of the most widely used and important groups of functional dyes are the styryl dyes and a review of this functional dye class has not been published for more than 15 years. In this review article, we describe the new trends in the synthesis of a range of novel intermediates and styryl dyes and include the most interesting examples of their high‐tech applications. However, this review is not intended to be comprehensive because of the large number of styryl dye studies that have been carried out in this time. Styryl cyanine dyes are widely used in optical recording media in laser discs, as flexible dyes, laser dyes, as optical sensitisers and in various other fields, for example dye‐sensitised solar cells and dyes with non‐linear optical properties. Additionally, the most important applications for these dyes are in bio‐labelling and in medicinal analysis.
Hysteroscopic removal of intrauterine contraceptive device embedded within submucous myoma
Authors: WANG Jian‐Hua , WANG Li‐quan , SHANG‐GUAN Xu‐Jun , HUANG Li‐Li
Published: August 2010

We report that an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) embedded within intrauterine tumour (submucous myoma) in a postmenopausal woman was misdiagnosed, definitively diagnosed and successfully removed with hysteroscopic resection. Hysteroscopy and hysteroscopic resection of the submucous myoma with IUCD should be reserved as a minimally invasive, safe and reliable treatment method, and can avoid a laparotomy and hysterotomy. This is believed to be the first reported case of such an occurrence.
Risks in the Design of the Modern Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kellman Neil
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Since 1967 neonatal intensive care units have incorporated Yale's “large room concept” of design. Many environmental problems of NICUs result, including the reducing of parents to occasional observers and overwhelming them with the sight of many sick babies, machinery and staff. The large room concept also plays a role in the risks of 24‐hour intense fluorescent lighting, noise, electromagnetic hazards, ionizing radiation, and outgassing of surface materials. An alcove design is suggested, which would reduce these risks, and provide graded exposure of parents to the sick infants. As the infants recover, an alcove design would allow for parents to assume full care of their baby and even rooming‐in.
Beliefs About Breastfeeding: A Statewide Survey of Health Professionals
Authors: Barnett Elizabeth , Sienkiewicz Maria , Roholt Sarah
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: A statewide project was implemented in 1993 to increase breastfeeding among low‐income women in North Carolina through improved institutional policies and practices and professional lactation‐management skills. A survey designed to ascertain professional beliefs about breastfeeding was mailed to 31 hospitals and 25 public health agencies. A total of 2209 health professionals completed the survey and met the study selection criteria. Nutritionists and pediatricians were most likely to have positive beliefs about breastfeeding, whereas hospital nurses were most likely to have negative beliefs. Personal breastfeeding experience contributed to positive beliefs. Professionals were least convinced of the emotional benefits of breastfeeding. Those with negative beliefs were most likely to advocate complete infant weaning from the breast before nine months of age. Although most health professionals had positive beliefs about breastfeeding, differences by profession, work environment, and personal breastfeeding experience indicate the need for comprehensive training in lactation management, and improvements in hospital and public health clinic environments.
A Randomized Controlled Study of Birth Center Care versus Standard Maternity Care: Effects on Women's Health
Authors: Waldenström Ulla , Nilsson Carl‐Axel
Published: August 2010

ABSTRACT: Background: The safety of birth center care for low‐risk women is an important issue, but it has not yet been studied in randomized controlled trials. Our purpose was to evaluate the effect of birth center care on women's health during pregnancy, birth, and 2 months postpartum by comparing the outcomes with those of women experiencing standard maternity care in the greater Stockholm area. Methods: Of 1860 women, 928 were randomly allocated to birth center care and 932 to standard antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum care. Information about medical procedures and health outcomes was collected from clinical records, and a questionnaire was mailed to women 2 months after the birth. Analysis was by “intention to treat;” that is, all antenatal, intrapartum, and postpartum transfers were included in the birth center group. Results: During pregnancy, birth center women made fewer visits to midwives and doctors, experienced fewer tests, and reported fewer health problems. No statistical difference occurred in hospital admissions (4.8%) compared with the control group (4.7%). During labor, birth center women used more alternative birth positions, had longer labors, and did not differ inperineal lacerations. In both groups 1.7 percent of women developed complications, requiring more than 7 days of hospital care after the birth. During the first 2 postpartum months, about 20 percent of women in both groups saw a doctor for similar types of health problems, and no statistical difference occurred in hospital readmissions, 1.4 and 0.8 percent in the birth center and control groups, respectively, Conclusion: The results suggest that birth center care is effective in identifying signijicant maternal complications and as safe for women as standard maternity care.