bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Supporting communication development in the early years: A practitioner’s perspective
Authors: Bain Julie , James Deborah , Harrison Mary
Published: August 2015

This research study set out to explore the education practitioner’s role in promoting communication development in early years classrooms. The study was undertaken in the combined nursery and reception early years unit of a small primary school using an ethnographic approach. Qualitative data was collected through 18 three-hour visits to the setting, using a mixture of observations, conversations and reflective notes, followed by a semi-structured interview with the teacher who was the subject of the case study. Analysis of the data revealed a multi-layered approach to communication that involved children, staff and parents. The participant interview revealed the depth of the teacher’s commitment to developing the children’s communication. The interview data suggested that this commitment came from the teacher’s own experiences of parenting and being valued and supported by her peers to help each child develop his or her communication skills effectively. The teacher was invited to reflect on the study’s findings, and they are presented in the article.
Design employment in UK regional economies: Industrial and occupational approaches
Authors: Vallance Paul
Published: August 2015

This paper uses the dual perspective of industrial and occupational employment to develop a multidimensional overview of the regional geography of design in the UK. Previous literature on the economic geography of design, and the creative economy more generally, is reviewed to demonstrate the value of analyses that combine occupational and industrial measurements of employment. An original classification of design occupations and industries is then developed for use in the study based on a conceptualisation of activities that involve elements of design practice. The results indicate that overall UK employment in design-based occupations is larger than in design-based industries, and while still concentrated in London and the greater south east, is more geographically decentralised. Analysis of design occupation-by-industry patterns shows that the structure of the design workforce can vary considerably between regions, and that areas outside London can support healthy levels of design employment through manufacturing and other activities that represent an alternative to a creative industries cluster model. The conclusion discusses the policy implications of these results.
Sociocultural Factors Associated With Abuse of Mentally Impaired Persons in Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwu Ngozi E. , Onyeneho Nkechi G.
Published: August 2015

This study examined sociocultural factors associated with abuse of mentally impaired persons (MIP) in Imo state, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey of 1,147 persons aged 10 years and above who had at least one MIP in their household was conducted. Six in-depth interviews and 21 focus group discussion (FGD) sessions with 160 study participants comprising adult male and female members of the communities, respectively, were conducted. The study established that a multitude of cultural and social factors shape the attitude of individuals toward mental impairment and MIPs. It was found that cultural perceptions of the cause of mental impairment as supernatural and evil forces were widespread within the study communities. Among those surveyed, 74.6% were aware that MIPs are victims of abuse. Perpetrators identified were mostly relatives and persons close to MIPs. The findings provide useful insights into gaps in conventional understanding of mental impairment and abuse of MIPs in Imo State.
A Path Model of School Violence Perpetration: Introducing Online Game Addiction as a New Risk Factor
Authors: Kim Jae Yop , Lee Jeen Suk , Oh Sehun
Published: August 2015

Drawing on the cognitive information–processing model of aggression and the general aggression model, we explored why adolescents become addicted to online games and how their immersion in online games affects school violence perpetration (SVP). For this purpose, we conducted statistical analyses on 1,775 elementary and middle school students who resided in northern districts of Seoul, South Korea. The results validated the proposed structural equation model and confirmed the statistical significance of the structural paths from the variables; that is, the paths from child abuse and self-esteem to SVP were significant. The levels of self-esteem and child abuse victimization affected SVP, and this effect was mediated by online game addiction (OGA). Furthermore, a multigroup path analysis showed significant gender differences in the path coefficients of the proposed model, indicating that gender exerted differential effects on adolescents’ OGA and SVP. Based on these results, prevention and intervention methods to curb violence in schools have been proposed.
Overcoming Abuse: A Phenomenological Investigation of the Journey to Recovery From Past Intimate Partner Violence
Authors: Flasch Paulina , Murray Christine E. , Crowe Allison
Published: August 2015

To date, minimal research has focused on the recovery process for survivors of intimate partner violence (IPV). This study utilized a phenomenological methodology to understand the lived experiences of survivors of IPV ( N = 123) who had overcome abusive relationships and created violence-free and meaningful lives. The researchers aimed to understand key factors involved in their recovery processes. Results indicated two main processes in the IPV recovery process: intrapersonal processes and interpersonal processes. Intrapersonal processes included (a) regaining and recreating one’s identity, (b) embracing the freedom and power to direct one’s own life, (c) healing from the mental and physical health symptoms of the abuse, (d) fostering acceptance and forgiveness with self and abuser, (e) education and examination of abusive relationships, (f) determining whether and how to enter new intimate relationships, and (g) acknowledging the long-term process of overcoming abuse. Interpersonal processes included themes of (a) building positive social support and relationships and (b) using ones’ experiences with abuse to help others. Results of the present study are presented, and implications for practitioners are discussed.
An investigation into the mechanism of metro rail corrugation using experimental and theoretical methods
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Hengyu , Wen Zefeng , Du Xing , Wu Lei , Li Xia , Jin Xuesong
Published: August 2015

Severe short-pitch rail corrugation was found to have occurred on four types of track on the same metro line. Field investigations found that, even with the same operation conditions, the corrugations had different wavelengths for the different types of track. Impact hammer tap tests were conducted to investigate the dynamic behaviour of the tracks. The test results showed that, in the investigated metro, short-pitch corrugations are associated with the resonance behaviour of the tracks. The test results also showed that the corrugations on the investigated tracks are not caused by torsional vibration due to the wheelsets. Numerical simulations were conducted to identify the resonance behaviour that is could not be observed in the impact hammer tests due to the limitations in the test method. Three-dimensional finite element models for the four types of track were established and they were used to study the dynamic characteristics of the different tracks. The resonance frequencies and modes that are related to the generation of the corrugation were clearly identified in the numerical modelling studies; this further verifies the relationship between the formation of corrugation and the resonance behaviour of the tracks. The effect of a low value of the fastener stiffness on the dissipation of wheel/rail vibration energy was investigated with the help of numerical simulations. Both experimental and numerical results showed that the resonance behaviour of track structures is of great importance in determining the initiation, characteristics and development of the short-pitch corrugation on the investigated tracks.
The increase in cohabitation and the role of union status in family policies: A comparison of 12 European countries
Authors: Sánchez Gassen Nora , Perelli-Harris Brienna
Published: August 2015

The role of union status, or whether people are married, cohabiting or single, is seldom considered in welfare state research. This perspective, however, is important, since many welfare state policies focus on marriage and do not apply to unmarried cohabitants. This lack of legal regulation may render cohabitants vulnerable in moments when state support is needed. Since cohabitation levels are increasing across Europe, understanding the role of union status in welfare state policies is increasingly important. By analysing data from the European Social Survey and a self-constructed policy database, we answer three questions: (1) How many couples live in cohabitation across 12 European countries today? (2) Which rights do they have in different policy areas? and (3) How many couples, therefore, are covered or fall outside the scope of policies in their country? We find that cohabitation is often, but not always, more strongly regulated in countries with high cohabitation levels, leaving more cohabitants legally unprotected in some countries than in others.
From Childhood Maltreatment to Allostatic Load in Adulthood
Authors: Horan Jacqueline M. , Widom Cathy S.
Published: August 2015

Although previous research has documented that social support acts as a protective factor for individuals exposed to trauma, most research relies on assessments of social support at one point in time. The present study used data from a prospective cohort design study to examine the stability of social support from childhood through middle adulthood in individuals with documented histories of childhood abuse and neglect and matched controls (aged 0–11) and assessed the impact of social support on allostatic load, a composite measure of physiological stress response assessed through blood tests and physical measurements, in middle adulthood. Maltreated children are more likely to have unstable social support across the life span, compared to matched controls. Social support across the life span partially mediated the relationship between child maltreatment and allostatic load in adulthood, although there were differences by race and sex. These findings have implications for interventions to prevent the negative consequences of child maltreatment.
Neighbourly demands: Property, propriety and the racial identification of crime in Chicago
Authors: Buffam Bonar
Published: August 2015

Law has become a principal axis of racialization amidst the neoliberal restructuring of urban spaces. This article tracks how processes of racialization materialize through practices of civic activism related to crime and urban danger in a gentrifying neighbourhood of Chicago. Focused on a neighbourhood weblog used to share information about the security of the area, this article tracks how neighbourly practices of textual production and circulation, which are facilitated by the blog, engender racial relations of observation, surveillance and displacement across the virtual and material spaces of the neighbourhood. This article illustrates how racial concerns about crime play a critical role in reconstituting and delimiting the public dimensions of urban spaces.
The Multidisciplinary Team Conference’s Decision on M-Staging in Patients with Gastric- and Gastroesophageal Cancer is not Accurate without Staging Laparoscopy
Authors: Strandby R. B. , Svendsen L. B. , Fallentin E. , Egeland C. , Achiam M. P.
Published: August 2015

Background:

The implementation of the multidisciplinary team conference has been shown to improve treatment outcome for patients with gastric- and gastroesophageal cancer. Likewise, the staging laparoscopy has increased the detection of patients with disseminated disease, that is, patients who do not benefit from a surgical resection. The aim of this study was to compare the multidisciplinary team conference’s decision in respect of M-staging with the findings of the following staging laparoscopy.

Methods:

Patients considered operable and resectable within the multidisciplinary team conference in the period 2010–2012 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient data were retrieved by searching for specific diagnosis and operation codes in the in-house system. The inclusion criteria were as follows: biopsy-verified cancer of the esophagus, gastroesophageal junction or stomach, and no suspicion of peritoneal carcinomatosis or liver metastases on multidisciplinary team conference before staging laparoscopy. Furthermore, an evaluation with staging laparoscopy was required.

Results:

In total, 222 patients met the inclusion criteria. Most cancers were located in the gastroesophageal junction, n = 171 (77.0%), and most common with adenocarcinoma histology, n = 196 (88.3%). The staging laparoscopy was M1-positive for peritoneal carcinomatosis in eight patients (16.7%) with gastric cancer versus nine patients (5.3%) with gastroesophageal junction cancer. Furthermore, liver metastases were evident in zero patients (0.0%) and four patients (2.3%) with gastric- and gastroesophageal junction cancer, respectively. The staging laparoscopy findings regarding peritoneal carcinomatosis were significantly different between gastric- and gastroesophageal junction cancers, p = 0.01. No significant differences were found regarding T-/N-stage or histological tumor characteristics between the positive- and negative-staging laparoscopy group.

Conclusion:

The M-staging of the multidisciplinary team conference without staging laparoscopy lacks accuracy concerning peritoneal carcinomatosis. Staging laparoscopy remains an essential part of the preoperative detection of disseminated disease in patients with gastric- and gastroesophageal cancer.
Have Betting Exchanges Corrupted Horse Racing?
Authors: Brown Alasdair , Yang Fuyu
Published: August 2015

Betting exchanges allow punters to bet on a horse to lose a race. This, many argue, has opened up the sport to a new form of corruption, where races will be deliberately lost in order to profit from betting. We examine whether anecdotal evidence of the fixing of horses to lose—of which there are many examples—is indicative of wider corruption. Following a “forensic economics” approach, we build an asymmetric information model of exchange betting and take it to betting data on 9,560 races run in 2013/2014. We find no evidence of the widespread corruption of horse racing by the betting exchanges.
Adsorption and desorption properties of modified feather and feather/polypropylene melt-blown filter cartridge of lead ion (Pb2+)
Authors: Wang Hong , Jin XiangYu , Wu HaiBo
Published: August 2015

Duck and chicken feather fibers are waste products of the poultry industry, creating a serious solid waste problem around the world. Previous works showed that feather fibers can be reused to adsorb heavy metal ions from water. But the raw feather fiber only exhibits moderate heavy metal ions adsorption capacity, not cost-effective to be reused as adsorbent in a large scale. To improve the adsorption capacity of feather fibers, sodium pyrosulfite (Na2S2O5) was used in this paper to modify the feather fiber in order to improve its Pb2+ adsorption capacity. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy quantified chemical and structural changes of Na2S2O5-modified feather fibers. In addition, Na2S2O5-modified feather fibers were processed into feather/polypropylene melt-blown filter cartridges and their dynamic Pb2+ adsorption properties were investigated by using the test equipment set up in our lab. Finally, the desorption effects of NaOH and sodium sulfide nonahydrate (Na2S·9H2O) aqueous solutions on the feather fiber adsorbed with Pb2+ were studied. It is found that Pb2+ adsorption capacity of the feather fiber increased after being modified by Na2S2O5. Modified feather/polypropylene filter cartridge exhibited higher Pb2+ adsorption capacity than feather/polypropylene filter cartridge and pure polypropylene filter cartridge in the whole dynamic adsorption process.
In the Shadow/From the Shadow
Authors: Bristol Laurette , Esnard Talia , Brown Launcelot
Published: August 2015

This case highlights a school principal’s leading practice as she worked to transform the social and educational status of students, teachers, and community in a small urban primary school. We employ shadowing, a technique popularized in work-based education and photography, as reflective and research tools. Teaching notes provide insight into the implications of shadowing for leadership development and leading learning particularly in the absence of systematic and strategic professional learning for school leaders in Trinidad and Tobago. The literature used here considers understandings of the relationship between the practice architectures of school leading, the reflective practitioner, and school transformation.
Melting behavior of thin polyethylene films
Authors: Kajiyama Tisato , Yakabe Hirohiko , Kawaguchi Daisuke , Takahara Atsushi , Tanaka Keiji
Published: August 2015

Melting behavior in thin films of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) was studied by local thermal analysis (µTA). Even in the films thinner than 100 nm, the melting temperature ( Tm) was successfully observed by µTA. For LLDPE, Tm decreased as the thickness became thinner than 150 nm. For HDPE, Tm increased with decreasing thickness. Polarized infrared spectroscopy revealed that an edge-on lamellar structure formed in both cases, meaning that the crystallite orientation may not be a reason why the thickness dependence of Tm was not the same for both resins. A possible explanation is that for LLDPE the segmental mobility in the amorphous region predominates with decreasing thickness, and for HDPE the chain orientation in the region predominates with decreasing thickness.
Use of hand‐held Doppler ultrasound examination by podiatrists: a reliability study
Authors: Tehan Peta Ellen , Chuter Vivienne Helaine
Published: August 2015

Background

Hand held Doppler examination is a frequently used non‐invasive vascular assessment utilised by podiatrists. Despite this, the reliability of hand‐held Doppler has not been thoroughly investigated. Given the importance of Doppler in completing a vascular assessment of the lower limb, it is essential to determine the reliability of the interpretation of this testing method in practicing podiatrists.

Methods

This was a multi‐centre inter and intra‐rater reliability study. Four podiatrists (the raters) participated in this study, two public and two private practitioners. Three aspects of Doppler use were examined; (i) use of Doppler (i.e., technique and interpretation), (ii) interpretation of Doppler audio sounds, and (iii) interpretation of visual Doppler waveforms (i.e., tracings). Participants meeting current guidelines for vascular screening attended two testing sessions, 1 week apart at either the private practice (n = 32), or the public practice (n = 31). To assess use of Doppler, the raters evaluated the Doppler waveforms that they collected, rating them as mono‐phasic or multi‐phasic. To assess Doppler audio sounds and visual Doppler waveforms, raters were required to evaluate 30 audio recordings of Doppler sounds and 30 waveform tracings, respectively, that were previously recorded and chosen at random by the researchers. Cohen's kappa (κ) statistics were used to calculate inter and intra‐rater reliability using SPSS version 19.

Results

Use of Doppler demonstrated the lowest reliability for both pairs of clinicians (inter‐rater reliability κ 0.20 to 0.24 and intra‐rater reliability κ 0.27 to 0.42). The public podiatrists showed higher reliability in audio interpretation (inter‐tester reliability κ 0.61, intra‐tester reliability κ 1.00) compared to the private podiatrists (inter‐tester reliability κ 0.31, intra‐tester reliability κ 0.53). Evaluation of Doppler waveform tracings demonstrated highest reliability, with inter‐rater reliability ranging from κ 0.77 to 0.90 and intra‐rater reliability from κ 0.81 to 1.00.

Conclusions

There is a need for ongoing education for podiatrists using Doppler in clinical practice, as the reliability for the clinical use of the Doppler was low. This indicates that technique could be an issue. There is also a need to further evaluate if hand‐held Doppler equipment, using the examinations that we evaluated, is suitable for use in the contexts examined in this study.
Cancer Incidence and Mortality in Patients Treated Either With RAI or Thyroidectomy for Hyperthyroidism
Authors: Ryödi Essi , Metso Saara , Jaatinen Pia , Huhtala Heini , Saaristo Rauni , Välimäki Matti , Auvinen Anssi
Published: August 2015

Context:

Some previous studies have suggested increased cancer risk in hyperthyroid patients treated with radioactive iodine (RAI). It is unclear whether the excess cancer risk is attributable to hyperthyroidism, its treatment, or the shared risk factors of the two diseases.

Objective:

The objective was to assess cancer morbidity and mortality in hyperthyroid patients treated with either RAI or surgery.

Patients:

We identified 4334 patients treated surgically for hyperthyroidism in Finland during 1986–2007 from the Hospital Discharge Registry and 1814 patients treated with RAI for hyperthyroidism at Tampere University Hospital. For each patient, three age- and gender-matched controls were chosen. Information on cancer diagnoses was obtained from the Cancer Registry. The follow-up began 3 months after the treatment and ended at cancer diagnosis, death, emigration, or the common closing date (December 31, 2009).

Results:

The overall cancer incidence was not increased among the hyperthyroid patients compared to their controls (rate ratio [RR], 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.96–1.15). However, the risk of cancers of the respiratory tract (RR, 1.46; 95% CI, 1.05–2.02) and the stomach (RR, 1.64; 95% CI, 1.01–2.68) was increased among the patients. The overall cancer mortality did not differ between the patients and the controls (RR, 1.08; 95% CI, 0.94–1.25). The type of treatment did not affect the overall risk of cancer (hazard ratio for RAI vs thyroidectomy, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.86–1.23) or cancer mortality (hazard ratio, 1.04; 95% CI, 0.91–1.21).

Conclusions:

In this cohort of Finnish patients with hyperthyroidism treated with thyroidectomy or RAI, the overall risk of cancer was not increased, although an increased risk of gastric and respiratory tract cancers was seen in hyperthyroid patients. Based on this large-scale, long-term follow-up study, the increased cancer risk in hyperthyroid patients is attributable to hyperthyroidism and shared risk factors, not the treatment modality.
Improvements to a Grating-Based Spectral Imaging Microscope and Its Application to Reflectance Analysis of Blue Pen Inks
Authors: McMillan Leilani C. , Miller Kathleen P. , Webb Michael R.
Published: August 2015

A modified design of a chromatically resolved optical microscope (CROMoscope), a grating-based spectral imaging microscope, is described. By altering the geometry and adding a beam splitter, a twisting aberration that was present in the first version of the CROMoscope has been removed. Wavelength adjustment has been automated to decrease analysis time. Performance of the new design in transmission–absorption spectroscopy has been evaluated and found to be generally similar to the performance of the previous design. Spectral bandpass was found to be dependent on the sizes of apertures, and the smallest measured spectral bandpass was 1.8 nm with 1.0 mm diameter apertures. Wavelength was found to be very linear with the sine of the grating angle (R 2 = 0.9999995), and wavelength repeatability was found to be much better than the spectral bandpass. Reflectance spectral imaging with a CROMoscope is reported for the first time, and this reflectance spectral imaging was applied to blue ink samples on white paper. As a proof of concept, linear discriminant analysis was used to classify the inks by brand. In a leave-one-out cross-validation, 97.6% of samples were correctly classified.
Zinc-containing bioactive glasses for bone regeneration, dental and orthopedic applications
Authors: Balasubramanian Preethi , Strobel Leonie A. , Kneser Ulrich , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: August 2015

Zinc is a vital and beneficial trace element found in the human body. Though found in small proportions, zinc performs a variety of functions in relation to the immune system, cell division, fertility and the body growth and maintenance. In particular, zinc is proven to be a necessary element for the formation, mineralization, development and maintenance of healthy bones. Considering this attractive attributes of zinc, recent research has widely focused on using zinc along with silicate-based bioactive glasses for bone tissue engineering applications. This paper reviews relevant literature discussing the significance of zinc in the human body, along with its ability to enhance antibacterial effects, bioactivity and distinct physical, structural and mechanical properties of bioactive glasses. In this context, even if the present analysis is not meant to be exhaustive and only representative studies are discussed, literature results confirm that it is essential to understand the properties of zinc-containing bioactive glasses with respect to their in vitro biological behavior, possible cytotoxic effects and degradation characteristics to be able to effectively apply these glasses in bone regeneration strategies. Topics attracting increasing research efforts in this field are elaborated in detail in this review, including a summary of the structural, physical, biological and mechanical properties of zinc-containing bioactive glasses. This paper also presents an overview of the various applications in which zinc-containing bioactive glasses are considered for use as bone tissue scaffolds, bone filling granules, bioactive coatings and bone cements, and advances and remaining challenges are highlighted.
Modular user interface design for integrated surgical workplaces
Authors: Benzko Julia , Krause Lisa , Janß Armin , Marschollek Björn , Merz Paul , Dell’Anna Jasmin , Radermacher Klaus
Published: August 2015

Severe bottlenecks in usability and human technology interaction (HTI) of existing surgical workplaces and operating room (OR) equipment can occur today: lack of space, cable as trip hazard, communication problems between sterile and non-sterile staff, and operating errors in the handling of the medical devices. In fact, risks that are caused by poor usability can be critical, and studies show that most are preventable. This issue gets even more challenging in the context of open-OR networks regarding consistent and usable integration of user interfaces (UIs) of independently designed systems in one integrated surgical work system. In this work, a concept of generic UI profiles for the modular integration of a UI has been developed and first prototypes have been implemented. The concept is essentially based on the approach of device profiles developed in the context of the Bundesministerium für Bildung und Forschung project OR.NET (
Response of Prairie cordgrass (Spartina pectinata Link) to a residual effect of municipal sewage sludge application
Authors: Helios Waldemar , Malarz Władysław , Kozak Marcin , Kotecki Andrzej
Published: August 2015

The objective of our study was to assess the residual effect of sewage sludge on the growth and yield of Prairie cordgrass and the content of crude ash, macroelements and heavy metals in the plant biomass. Field trials conducted in the years 2011 to 2013 focused on the assessment of the impact of municipal sewage sludge applied from 2008 to 2010on the growth and yield of Prairie cordgrass. The experiments followed the split-plot design with two variables: the rate of sewage sludge (DM-dry matter) at 0, 1.4, 2.8 and 4.2 t ha-1, corresponding to nitrogen fertilization with: 0, 50, 100, 150 kg ha-1, and the harvest time - fall and winter. The total dose of sewage sludge applied in 2008−2010 was 0, 4.2, 8.4 and
12.6 t DM ha-1, which corresponded to the total dose of nitrogen fertilization: 0, 150, 300 and 450 kg ha-1, respectively. The municipal sewage sludge at a rate of
8.4 t DM ha-1, compared to the Control, significantly increased the number of leaves per plant, the leaf and culm matter, the number of shoots per 1 m2, the dry matter yield, crude ash deposition and uptake of macroelements and heavy metals.
The even Clifford structure of the fourth
Severi variety
Authors: Parton Maurizio , Piccinni Paolo
Published: August 2015

TheHermitian symmetric spaceM = EIII appears in the classification of complete simply connected
Riemannian manifolds carrying a parallel even Clifford structure [19]. This means the existence of a real oriented
Euclidean vector bundle E over it together with an algebra bundle morphism φ : Cl0(E) → End(TM)
mapping Ʌ2E into skew-symmetric endomorphisms, and the existence of a metric connection on E compatible
with φ. We give an explicit description of such a vector bundle E as a sub-bundle of End(TM). From this
we construct a canonical differential 8-form on EIII, associated with its holonomy Spin(10) · U(1) ⊂ U(16),
that represents a generator of its cohomology ring. We relate it with a Schubert cycle structure by looking at
EIII as the smooth projective variety V(4) ⊂ CP26 known as the fourth Severi variety.
Triggering RNAi with multifunctional RNA nanoparticles and their delivery
Authors: Dao Bich Ngoc , Viard Mathias , Martins Angelica N. , Kasprzak Wojciech K. , Shapiro Bruce A. , Afonin Kirill A.
Published: August 2015

Proteins are considered to be the key players in structure, function, and metabolic regulation of our bodies. The mechanisms used in conventional therapies often rely on inhibition of proteins with small molecules, but another promising method to treat disease is by targeting the corresponding mRNAs. In 1998, Craig Mellow and Andrew Fire discovered dsRNA-mediated gene silencing via RNA interference or RNAi. This discovery introduced almost unlimited possibilities for new gene silencing methods, thus opening new doors to clinical medicine. RNAi is a biological process that inhibits gene expression by targeting the mRNA. RNAi-based therapeutics have several potential advantages (i) a priori ability to target any gene, (ii) relatively simple design process, (iii) sitespecificity, (iv) potency, and (v) a potentially safe and selective knockdown of the targeted cells. However, the problem lies within the formulation and delivery of RNAi therapeutics including rapid excretion, instability in the bloodstream, poor cellular uptake, and inefficient intracellular release. In an attempt to solve these issues, different types of RNAi therapeutic delivery strategies including multifunctional RNA nanoparticles are being developed. In this mini-review, we will briefly describe some of the current approaches.
Another formulation of the Wick’s theorem. Farewell, pairing?
Authors: Beloussov Igor V.
Published: August 2015

The algebraic formulation of Wick’s theorem that allows one to present the vacuum or thermal
averages of the chronological product of an arbitrary number of field operators as a determinant (permanent)
of the matrix is proposed. Each element of the matrix is the average of the chronological product of only
two operators. This formulation is extremely convenient for practical calculations in quantum field theory,
statistical physics, and quantum chemistry by the standard packages of the well known computer algebra
systems.
The relationship of oxidative stress parameters with infarct volume and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale in ischemic stroke / İskemik inmede oksidatif stres parametrelerinin infarkt volümü ve National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale ile ilişkisi
Authors: İçme Ferhat , Erel Özcan , Öztürk Zeynep Saral , Öz Tolga , Avci Akkan , Satar Salim , Ercan Karabekir
Published: August 2015

Objective: What we know about the relationship between oxidative stress parameters and ischemic stroke is still limited and controversial. Our study aimed to investigate the relationships among ischemic lesion volume, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) values, and oxidant and antioxidant levels to determine whether oxidative stress paramaters is effective on stroke severity in ischemic stroke patients.

Methods: The study included 34 patients with ischemic stroke and 34 volunteers with no active diseases. Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), thiol, paraoxonase, stimulated paraoxonase (stparaoxonase) and arylesterase were measured in blood samples collected on admission from patients diagnosed with ischemic stroke. The Oxidative Stress Index (OSI) was calculated. The same oxidative stress parameters were measured in the control group and compared with the patient group. Correlation between the oxidative stress parameters, the infarct volume and the NIHSS was studied. NIHSS was calculated when patients were admitted to the emergency department. The infarct volume was calculated using diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging performed in the first 72-96 hours.

Results: TOS and OSI values were significantly higher in the case group than the control group. Paraoxonase, arylesterase, and thiol values were significantly lower in the case group than the control group. TAS and stparaoxonase values weren’t differed significantly between the case and control groups. There were significant negative correlations between the NIHSS value and both the paraoxonase value and stparaoxonase value. There were no significant correlations between the NIHSS value and the infarct volume and the TAS, TOS, OSI, arylesterase, and thiol values.

Conclusion: We concluded that change in oxidative stress balance in favor of oxidants could be a cause in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke but oxidative stress alone can’t be sufficient in predicting the severity of stroke.
A Study of .22 Caliber Rimfire Exploding Bullets: Effects in Ordnance Gelatin
Authors: Josselson AR , Johnson AC , Washington WD , Wagner GN , Garner DD , Johnson FB , Lundy DR
Published: August 2015

This is a study of commercially available .22 caliber rimfire ammunition manufactured to explode on bullet impact. Factors considered were bullet velocity, angle of impact, missile deformation, and depth of penetration and cavitation in ordnance gelatin. Microscopic, radiographic, and high speed motion picture photographic techniques were employed. This study found that the angle of impact was critical for detonation of the bullet.
Collection of Trace Evidence from Bombing Victims at Autopsy
Authors: Laposata EA
Published: August 2015

The body recovered from the scene of a bombing may contain important trace evidence that links the suspect to the crime. Recognizing the lack of guidelines for evidence removal from the body, we have prepared a protocol to guide the pathologist in the collection of trace evidence from the bombing victim. Case material used in the development of the protocol included 13 bombing fatalities reported to the St. Louis Medical Examiner's Office since 1975.
Age Estimation from the Rib by Phase Analysis: White Females
Authors: Yaşar İşcan M , Loth SR , Wright RK
Published: August 2015

Metamorphosis at the sternal extremity of the rib has already been established as a reliable indicator of age at death. Using a sample of white males, it was shown that an accurate estimation of age can be made by direct examination of the bone itself. However, because of sexual differences in hormonal production and dimorphism in the skeleton, the present study was carried out to develop an appropriate standard for age determination from the sternal rib in white females. The sample consisted of 86 ribs of known age, sex, and race. Observations were made at the costochondral junction with special attention to pit formation (its shape and depth), changes in the walls and rim surrounding it, and overall bone density and texture. Based on changes in these areas, the ribs were separated into nine phases (0 through 8). The most rapid metamorphosis occurred in Phases 1 through 4 (mean ages 14–28) with changes noticeable at 3 to 4 year intervals. After mean age 28, this process slowed, considerably expanding the interval between phases to 10 to 15 years. The female ribs showed both earlier initial pit formation and a different morphologic pattern of aging as compared with males. Statistical analysis revealed that the features chosen to delineate the phases are valid predictors of age. This study has shown that the sternal rib can provide an accurate estimation of age in females spanning a mean age of 14 to 76 years.
Identification of Fetal Bloodstains by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay for Human α-Fetoprotein
Authors: Katsumata Y , Sato M , Tamaki K , Tsutsumi H , Yada S , Oya M
Published: August 2015

A rapid and highly sensitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for determination of human α-fetoprotein (AFP) using commercially available reagents was devised and applied to identification of fetal bloodstains. When experimentally prepared bloodstains, 1 by 2 mm in area, were submitted to analysis, only fetal bloodstains showed positive reactions in the present ELISA. The reactions did not change significantly when these bloodstains were stored at room temperature for one week. The present ELISA seems to be suitable for forensic science practice.
Sudden Death Caused by Embolization of Trophoblast from Hydatidiform Mole
Authors: Cohle SD , Petty CS
Published: August 2015

A 16-year-old pregnant female presented to a hospital emergency room with vaginal bleeding and uterine cramping. She underwent a hysterotomy and curettage and, during the procedure, her pulse dropped from 130 to 30 beats/minute, her pO2 fell to 10 mm of mercury, and she could not be resuscitated. At autopsy, she was found to have massive pulmonary embolization of syncytiotrophoblast from a hydatidiform mole of the uterus. This is the sixth reported case of trophoblastic embolization from a hydratidiform mole ending in death. This fatal termination may occur after a period of respiratory symptoms and may occur regardless of the mode of treatment.
Formation of Gunshot Residues
Authors: Basu S
Published: August 2015

Scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) was used to determine new structural criteria to further substantiate the view that gunshot residue (GSR) particles have a characteristic structure. Because GSR particles are formed by rapid cooling from extreme temperatures and high pressures, they should contain features of condensates not only on their surfaces, but also within their interiors. Both the surfaces and the cross sections of GSR were examined for X-ray mapping of elements and for topographic analysis. Vaporized lead, antimony, and barium may condense uniformly and concurrently, or irregularly and discontinuously, or as a layer of lead around a nucleus of barium and antimony. These three modes of GSR formation may correspond to the equilibrium state, the increasing temperature state, and the decreasing temperature state of the explosion gas mixture of the priming compound. Most GSR smaller than 10 $#X3BCm are formed as droplets at equilibrium. Larger spheres grow by coalescence of the smaller droplets. These residues pass through various metastable forms and then freeze. Only a few semisolid spheroids of barium and antimony may capture lead vapors of the etched bullet and burnt residues, and these appear as “peeled oranges.”
Physical Comparison of Plastic Garbage Bags and Sandwich Bags
Authors: von Bremen UG , Blunt LKR
Published: August 2015

Individual marks are located adjacent to machine-cut ends on garbage bags and sandwich bags. Class marks that change direction or width or both are present on many brands. The cut ends of plastic bags can successfully be related to each other. Visits were made to plants that manufacture both types of bags to observe the production methods and sequence. Consecutively made samples were collected and others purchased at retail outlets. All were compared with optical equipment and some with photographic techniques to enhance faint characteristics. Results obtained using the techniques described were presented in court.
Counterfeits: Three Groups, One Source
Authors: Morton SE
Published: August 2015

A series of U.S. Postal Money Orders were determined to be counterfeits. They were separated into three distinct groups based on recurring printing defects. However, printing defects common to all of the counterfeits established that they shared a common source at some point in their production. The genuine money order used as a model was located and confirmed as the individual money order photographed to make the offset negatives used to print the counterfeits.
Bullet-Shaped Chest Tube Tip: Potential Pitfall in Diagnosis
Authors: Messmer JM , Wadsworth JD
Published: August 2015

A potential pitfall in diagnosis with the use of a radiopaque tipped chest tube is reported. A discussion of bullet embolization to and from the heart is given.
A Comparison of Partner and Solo Arsonists
Authors: Molnar G , Keitner L , Harwood BT
Published: August 2015

Data on 225 adult arsonists arrested in a metropolitan county over a four-year period were systematically gathered. In each case 83 variables related to the arsonist and the arson were examined. The presence or absence of a partner in crime clearly differentiated two groups of arsonists. Partner and solo arsonists are characterized by a different level of social functioning and a different burden of mental impairment and criminal history. By focusing on the partner variable, it also becomes clear that the characteristics of the offense are related to those of the offender.
Microscopical Discrimination of Twins' Head Hair
Authors: Bisbing RE , Wolner MF
Published: August 2015

Twin populations are ideal for studying human variation; a study of twins' hair, therefore, provided a better understanding of the value of hair comparisons. Duplicate head hair samples from 17 pairs of twins and one set of identical triplets were compared in a verified blind study. In addition to the direct comparison of all twins, random samples of two or three hairs were compared with randoraly selected groups of known samples in a second blind study, to better simulate an ordinary forensic science case. Features commonly used by forensic hair examiners were adequate to distinguish hair samples from each twin from all other samples, illustrating the power of microscopical comparison when numerous questioned hairs are available in evidence. When two or three hairs were compared with randomly selected known samples, several were indistinguishable from hair samples other than the true source, proving once again that a human hair can never be associated with one person to the exclusion of all others.
The Detection of Protein p30 in Seminal Stains by Means of Thin-Layer Immunoassay
Authors: Masibay AS , Lappas NT
Published: August 2015

The detection of p30 by means of an indirect thin-layer immunoassay (TIA) is described. Extracts from 20 samples can be analyzed in approximately 2 h with a detection limit of approximately 50 ng. The p30 protein was detected in seminal stains which had been stored at room temperature for six months and at 130°C for 4 h. Blood, saliva, urine, perspiration, and tears did not interefere with the method. The reliability of the method was demonstrated in a blind study.
Intravenous Amphetamine Abuse, Primary Cerebral Mucormycosis, and Acquired Immunodeficiency
Authors: Micozzi MS , Wetli CV
Published: August 2015

Two intravenous amphetamine abusers had fatal, rapidly progressive cerebral mucormycosis with abscess formation in the presence of absolute lymphopenia. Postmortem examination confirmed the primary nature of the fungal cerebritis, documented by postmortem culture and histology. The clinical and pathologic features of these cases are compared to previously reported occurrences of primary fungal cerebritis (and abscess) among intravenous drug abusers, including cocaine users. Primary fungal cerebritis associated with intravenous abuse of stimulant drugs is discussed as a possible variant of the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.
The Absorption of Mercuric Ion into Single Human Head Hairs
Authors: Mackintosh J , Pate BD
Published: August 2015

The concentration patterns of radioactive Hg ++, Cu + +, and I - in individual hair shafts, after soaking in aqueous solutions of these tracers, were measured nondestructively to permit repeated experiments on a given shaft. The mercury concentrations generally increased from the root end to the distal end of a given shaft less steeply than those of copper, while iodide concentrations generally decreased. Concentration peaks and other pattern features for mercury were also relatively less intense, but there was some correlation of the position of such areas of increased mercury, copper, and iodine adsorption in a given shaft. At equilibrium after more than 100 h of soaking, the amount of mercury taken up at pH 8 by the hair was three to four times that at pH 3. The rate of absorption of mercury was higher at low pH values, and that of desorption higher at high pH values. The relative intensity of pattern features remained constant during absorption or desorption at a given pH, but changed if the pH was changed. These data are discussed in terms of the chemistry of the hair binding sites for cations and anions.
Suicidal Strangulation with a Double-Knotted Noose
Authors: Zečević D
Published: August 2015

The paper describes an unquestionable case of suicide by strangulation. The case is of special interest because in addition to two single knots there were two double knots in the noose. As a rule strangulation with a double-knotted noose is seen only in cases of murder. The data attained at autopsy and the findings of the detailed police investigation are discussed.
Anatomical Distribution of Human Bite Marks in a Series of 67 Cases
Authors: Vale GL , Noguchi TT
Published: August 2015

A study was made of the anatomical distribution of human bite marks, as well as their distribution by age of victim and type of crime involved. Bite marks in this study occurred primarily in sex-related crimes, child abuse cases, and cases involving other types of physical altercations. Bite marks were found on virtually all areas of the body, with more than one bite mark on 40% of the victims. Female victims were most commonly bitten on the breasts, arms, and legs, while male victims were most commonly bitten on the arms and shoulders.
Radiographic Identification of Charred Human Remains Through Use of the Dorsal Defect of the Patella
Authors: Riddick L , Brogdon BG , Lasswell-Hoff J , Delmas B
Published: August 2015

A case of radiographic identification of charred human remains through use of the dorsal defect of the patella is reported. The nature of the defect and its incidence are discussed for reference purposes.
Phytochemical study of nonpolar extracts from Excoecaria lucida Sw. leaves (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Ochoa A. , Fechine J. , Escalona J.C. , García J. , dos Santos S.G. , Sobral da Silva M.
Published: August 2015

Excoecaria lucida Sw. is an evergreen shrub widely distributed in Cuba and throughout the Caribbean region. In spite of its extended traditional use as antiasthmatic and antimicrobial by the local population, scientific reports on the species are almost nonexistent. This paper focuses on the isolation and characterization of compounds present in the crude extract of E. lucida Sw. leaves through the combined use of chromatographic and spectroscopic techniques (medium pressure liquid chromatography, thin-layer chromatography, gas chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance 1H, and mass spectrometry). A total of 15 nonpolar substances were identified in the four main fractions obtained; some of these substances could be related with the antimicrobial properties attributed to the species.