bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sudden Death in Cold Water and Ventricular Arrhythmia
Authors: Keatinge WR , Hayward MG
Published: August 2015

We describe a case in which a young man collapsed with no pulse but continuing respiration immediately after a cold swim that lasted only a few seconds; death ensued despite attempts at resuscitation. We also describe an experiment in which ventricular ectopic beats were precipitated by facial immersion during trunk immersion.
Sudden Unexpected Death Caused by Neuroepithelial (Colloid) Cyst of the Third Ventricle
Authors: Leestma JE , Konakci Y
Published: August 2015

Sudden unexpected death caused by a colloid cyst of the third ventricle in young apparently healthy persons is an uncommon phenomenon that nevertheless occurs regularly in medical examiner's cases and may occur in general hospital pathology practice. This entity has not received proper attention in the general or forensic pathology literature in spite of the fact that sudden death has been appreciated in the clinical literature for many years. We report four cases of sudden unexpected death in young persons whose only major previous complaint was that of chronic relapsing headaches. Because of the sudden and unexpected nature of their deaths, these cases came to the attention of the medical examiner and the colloid cysts were discovered at autopsy. The history of this lesion, its histogenesis, its pathological physiology, and the experiences of others are reviewed.
The “Body Packer Syndrome”—Toxicity Following Ingestion of Illicit Drugs Packaged for Transportation
Authors: Wetli CV , Mittleman RE
Published: August 2015

Ten fatalities and one survivor of attempts to smuggle cocaine within the body were investigated. Most cases have occurred since 1979. All but one of the victims were male. Victims found dead at home or in hotel rooms had little or no drug paraphernalia at the scene, although abundant laxatives and enema apparatus were often evident. Some died aboard aircraft, and witnesses described agitated behavior followed by grand-mal type seizures, respiratory collapse, and death. Seven victims presented to hospital emergency rooms. The symptoms included mydriasis, seizures, acute toxic psychosis, and coma in various combinations. One individual, realizing his plight, sought emergency room help by claiming he attempted suicide by using cocaine. All victims had recently returned to the United States on flights from South America. Balloons, condoms, or plastic bags filled with 3 to 6 g of cocaine each were swallowed and found in the gastrointestinal tract of eight victims. One of these had ingested more than 147 packets totaling 460 g. Two victims inserted packets of cocaine into their rectums, and one woman was found with nearly 170 g of cocaine in her vagina. The packets, being semipermeable membranes, do not have to break open to cause death from acute cocaine toxicity. Characteristic autopsy and radiologic findings, circumstances of death, and toxicologic data are presented. The “body packer syndrome” should be considered in any international traveler who dies suddenly, has seizures, or presents with any signs consistent with cocaine toxicity.
The Rehydration and Isolation of Leukocytes from Dried Bloodstains
Authors: Hillman K , Shaler RC
Published: August 2015

The extraction of leukocytes from dried bloodstains on a variety of surfaces was explored in terms of percentage of recovery. A glycerol-containing solution produced excellent results for many of the surfaces. The outstanding exception was cotton and related cloths, for which a moderate to good result was obtained with a 2-h incubation at 4°c using human serum. A major factor affecting the yield was the blood's ability to form a fibrin network (clotting). In treated or cadaveric blood, 80 to 100% recoveries could be easily obtained from dried crusts or pellets; in blood obtained from a finger prick, a dried crust or pellet yielded only 10 to 25%. A fibrous network containing a large number of entrapped leukocytes was observed under a microscope. This network was identified as fibrin, which acted to collect the cells. The “fibrinconcentrated” leukocytes may be used directly for testing or they can be released by the action of the enzyme plasmin under carefully controlled conditions. Leukocytes may be concentrated from the extraction solution by centrifugation. This step must be done at acidic pH. Leukocyte yields have been high enough to make sex determinations, polymorphic enzyme typing, and human lymphocyte and surface antigen typing feasible in the future.
Detection of Phenobarbital in Bloodstains, Semen, Seminal Stains, Saliva, Saliva Stains, Perspiration Stains, and Hair
Authors: Smith FP , Pomposini DA
Published: August 2015

Low nanogram quantities of phenobarbital were detected in a 10-μL dried blood stain and in other physiological fluids by using radioimmunoassay. The age of the stain versus detectability of phenobarbital and the cross-reactivity of vaginal secretions were investigated.
The Importance of Examining Skin and Hair for Semen in Sexual Assault Cases
Authors: Enos WF , Beyer JC
Published: August 2015

In some cases of sexual assault, the only laboratory proof of the allegation is by examining hair or skin for semen. The anatomic areas examined, depending on the history of the event, are head and facial hair and the skin of the perioral area, medial aspects of the thighs, and the buttocks. Head hair is clipped and eluted in saline, from which Pap smears and acid phosphatase determinations are made. The skin is smeared with saline-soaked cotton applicators, from which the above tests are run. Positive skin tests of the thighs or buttocks are also helpful in setting the time of the event and substantiating the allegation of rape, depending upon the history of bathing. Eight cases that illustrate these facts are presented.
A Review of Fundamentals of Criminal Investigation
Authors: Johnson TA
Published: August 2015

Perhaps one measure of a book's value to a particular discipline is reflected by the number of editions the publisher releases, as this is a reflection of demand for the text. On this measure there can be little doubt that O'Hara's text has proved successful since five editions have been released since its original publication in 1956, and almost 200 000 copies have been sold. There are, however, other measures of performance that also guide us in assessing a textbook's contribution to the particular discipline in question. For example, the seminal nature of the book, the book's propensity for stimulating further research, and the frequency for bibliographic citation in other scholarly monographs, articles, and books are but a few examples of these measures of performance.
A Review of Identification Technologies: Computer, Optical, and Chemical Aids to Personal ID
Authors: Chastain JD
Published: August 2015

The book contains nothing novel or striking, but it is an elementary description of some identification processes and systems. It would probably be of interest to the neophytes in the field of identification or possibly high school and college students taking courses in criminology or criminal justice. I cannot see that criminalists and established identification and investigation bureaus would find information in this publication of great use. It would seem inconceivable that professionals would not be much more advanced than information in this publication.
A Review of Disputed Paternity
Authors: Taylor HL
Published: August 2015

Mr. Bryant's book, as stated in the preface, is “to simplify much of the medical ‘jargon’ and the mystery of the blood tests” for lawyers to provide the basic material necessary and for medical persons to provide “methods, pitfalls and ramifications” in paternity testing. In this, the author has succeeded. His text is simplistic, elementary, and shallow.
Approaches to Drug Sample Differentiation. I: A Conceptual Review
Authors: Liu JH
Published: August 2015

Differentiation of drug samples can be based on at least three different approaches. Conventional methods use qualitative and quantitative determinations of impurities or minor components. Samples may also be differentiated by variations in a naturally occurring isotope such as carbon-13, whose content varies because of differences of carbon fixation conditions for cultivated plant drugs or from differences in reaction conditions for synthesized drugs. A third approach involves the determination of various diastereoisomeric or enantiomeric compositions or both. This last approach also serves an essential purpose in cases where one isomer is under regulation while other(s) may not be. Representative works are reviewed.
Approaches to Drug Sample Differentiation. II: Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometric Determination of Methamphetamine Enantiomers
Authors: Liu JH , Ramesh S , Tsay JT , Ku WW , Fitzgerald MP , Angelos SA , Lins CLK
Published: August 2015

Synthesized tris[d,d-dicampholylmethanato]europium(III), Eu(dcm)3, and three other commercially available chiral lanthanide shift reagents are used to resolve the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of the enantiomeric N-CH3 and C-CH3 protons in d- and l-methamphetamine. The chemical shift difference between the corresponding enantiomeric protons induced by these four shift reagents are compared and evaluated in their prospective use for enantiomeric identification and determination. It is concluded that while the chemical shift difference between the two enantiomerie C-CH3 protons induced by Eu(dcm)3 is most suitable for qualitative identification of these enantiomers, the NMR spectra of the N-CH3 protons are best resolved by Eu(dcm)3 and most suitable for quantitative determinations.
Identification of Some Chemical Analogues and Positional Isomers of Methaqualone
Authors: Dal Cason TA , Angelos SA , Washington O
Published: August 2015

The drug 2-methyl-3-ortho-tolyl-4-quinazolinone (methaqualone) and 15 chemical analogues and positional isomers were synthesized and identified by spectroscopic techniques. The series of analogues studied includes the compounds formed through substitution of hydrogen or halogen atoms in place of the methyl group of the 3-tolyl substituent in methaqualone. Additionally, the substituent's positional orientation of ortho, meta, or para is considered. Infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance, and mass spectra of the compounds are distinctive, and reference spectra are provided. Gas-liquid and thin-layer chromatographic systems for analysis of the compounds as well as melting point and ultraviolet data are discussed.
Chinese Discourse on the “Nine-Dashed Line”
Authors: Wang Zheng
Published: August 2015

This article surveys the discussion and debate in China over the nine-dashed line in recent years, with special focus on the efforts of scholars and think-tank experts to legitimize the nine-dashed line and their interactions with the Chinese public and policymakers through public media.
Comparison of Beef Cattle Grazing Management Practices and their Effects on Runoff Water Quality in Louisiana
Authors: H. A. DeRamus  , T. J. Clement  , C. Y. Jeong  , J. C. Berry
Published: August 2015

Management-intensive grazing (MIG) allows better use of grazed forage crops with short-duration grazing in small paddocks and with this study; the water quality was compared for two grazing management methods. Year-round grazing with MIG and continuous stocking (CS) were compared. Four 0.81-ha plots for two replications of the grazing systems were established. Twenty 0.04 ha (0.1 ac) paddocks, established with power fencing, allowed daily cattle rotation in MIG system. Continuous grazing and MIG used the same stocking rate on each experimental plot (0.81 ha). Each year, two crossbredbeef (Bos taurus) heifers (390 kg ± 12 kg; 12-14 mo at start) were maintained on each plot year-around for 3 yr, with additional yearling heifers added to maintain similarforage availability between stocking methods.
Common bermudagrass (Cynodon dactylon [L] Pers.) was grazed in summer and annual ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) was over-seeded into the sod during October for winter and spring grazing. Forage mass was determined monthly and available forage dry matter (DM) was maintained at approximately 1120 kg DM ha-1 Runoff water samples were collected during 42 rainfall events from May 2001 through March 2004. No significant treatment differences (P > 0.10) were found in most of the water quality parameters. Runoff as a percentage of the 3-yr average annual rainfall of 1869 mm was 34% for MIG and 42% CS. The average flow-weightedconcentrations of soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) varied from 5.08 mg P L–1 (ppm) to 8.22 mg P L–1 (ppm) while the NH+4–N ranged from 1.07 mg N L–1 (ppm) in year one to 10.11 mg N L–1 (ppm) for the second year (P < 0.05) for year effect. Total annual average forage production was greater (P < 0.05) in the MIG compared to CS with19,796 kg ha-1 for MIG vs. 16,964 kg ha-1 for CS. Beef production also increased with the MIG system with an annual total beef gain from MIG at 422 kg ha-1 y-1 vs. CS at 330 kg ha-1 yr-1.
Pediatric Professional Medical Associations and Industry Guideline Compliance
Authors: Siegel Matthew , Stedman Amy , Smith Kahsi A.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

There has been an increasing focus on the relationship between pediatric prescribers and the biomedical industry. There is a lack of research, however, on the biomedical industry’s relationship with the professional medical associations (PMAs) of pediatric prescribers. We developed a systematic method to assess this relationship by evaluating PMA transparency and compliance with a set of 2009 best practice guidelines (BPGs).

METHODS:

Nine PMAs rated as having the greatest influence on pediatric prescribers were examined. Two researchers independently coded publicly accessible information from the PMAs’ Web sites for transparency and compliance with 36 BPG recommendations. Using the coded data, an industry relationship index (IRI) score was developed to systematize comparisons across PMAs.

RESULTS:

The PMAs demonstrated transparency and compliance with less than one-half of the 2009 BPGs (mean ± SD: 30.2 ± 15.6; range: 8–51 on the 66-point IRI scale). Two PMAs clustered in the high IRI (more transparent and compliant) group, 3 in the medium group, and 4 in the low group. There was no significant association of IRI group status and the PMAs’ number of members or age. PMAs were least compliant with recommendations that prohibit or limit financial relationships with industry.

CONCLUSIONS:

PMAs with influence on pediatric prescribers have achieved only limited transparency and compliance with a set of 2009 BPGs, particularly with respect to financial separation from industry. Use of quantifiable standards of conduct facilitates comparisons between organizations and may enhance public trust in PMAs, preserving their ability to achieve organizational goals.
Translating Atopic Dermatitis Management Guidelines Into Practice for Primary Care Providers
Authors: Eichenfield Lawrence F. , Boguniewicz Mark , Simpson Eric L. , Russell John J. , Block Julie K. , Feldman Steven R. , Clark Adele R. , Tofte Susan , Dunn Jeffrey D. , Paller Amy S.
Published: August 2015

Atopic dermatitis affects a substantial number of children, many of whom seek initial treatment from their pediatrician or other primary care provider. Approximately two-thirds of these patients have mild disease and can be adequately managed at the primary care level. However, recent treatment guidelines are written primarily for use by specialists and lack certain elements that would make them more useful to primary care providers. This article evaluates these recent treatment guidelines in terms of evaluation criteria, treatment recommendations, usability, accessibility, and applicability to nonspecialists and integrates them with clinical evidence to present a streamlined severity-based treatment model for the management of a majority of atopic dermatitis cases. Because each patient’s situation is unique, individualization of treatment plans is critical as is efficient communication and implementation of the plan with patients and caregivers. Specifically, practical suggestions for individualizing, optimizing, implementing, and communicating treatment plans such as choosing a moisturizer formulation, avoiding common triggers, educating patients/caregivers, providing written treatment plans, and scheduling physician follow-up are provided along with a discussion of available resources for patients/caregivers and providers.
Coadministration of a 9-Valent Human Papillomavirus Vaccine With Meningococcal and Tdap Vaccines
Authors: Schilling Andrea , Parra Mercedes Macias , Gutierrez Maricruz , Restrepo Jaime , Ucros Santiago , Herrera Teobaldo , Engel Eli , Huicho Luis , Shew Marcia , Maansson Roger , Caldwell Nicole , Luxembourg Alain , ter Meulen Ajoke Sobanjo
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND:

This study in 11- to 15-year-old boys and girls compared the immunogenicity and safety of GARDASIL 9 (9-valent human papillomavirus [9vHPV] vaccine) administered either concomitantly or nonconcomitantly with 2 vaccines routinely administered in this age group (Menactra [MCV4; Neisseria meningitidis serotypes A/C/Y/W-135] or Adacel [Tdap; diphtheria/tetanus/acellular pertussis]).

METHODS:

Participants received 9vHPV vaccine at day 1 and months 2 and 6; the concomitant group (n = 621) received MCV4/Tdap concomitantly with 9vHPV vaccine at day 1; the nonconcomitant group (n = 620) received MCV4/Tdap at month 1. Antibodies to HPV-, MCV4-, and Tdap-relevant antigens were determined. Injection-site and systemic adverse events (AEs) were monitored for 15 days after any vaccination; serious AEs were monitored throughout the study.

RESULTS:

The geometric mean titers for all HPV types in 9vHPV vaccine 4 weeks after dose 3, proportion of subjects with a fourfold rise or greater in titers for 4 N meningitidis serotypes 4 weeks after injection with MCV4, proportion of subjects with antibody titers to diphtheria and tetanus ≥0.1 IU/mL, and geometric mean titers for pertussis antigens 4 weeks after injection with Tdap were all noninferior in the concomitant group compared with the nonconcomitant group. Injection-site swelling occurred more frequently in the concomitant group. There were no vaccine-related serious AEs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Concomitant administration of 9vHPV vaccine with MCV4/Tdap was generally well tolerated and did not interfere with the antibody response to any of these vaccines. This strategy would minimize the number of visits required to deliver each vaccine individually.
Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury and Attention Deficit
Authors: Königs Marsh , Heij Hugo A. , van der Sluijs Johannes A. , Vermeulen R. Jeroen , Goslings J. Carel , Luitse Jan S.K. , Poll-Thé Bwee Tien , Beelen Anita , van der Wees Marleen , Kemps Rachèl J.J.K. , Catsman-Berrevoets Coriene E. , Oosterlaan Jaap
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND:

We investigated the impact of pediatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) on attention, a prerequisite for behavioral and neurocognitive functioning.

METHODS:

Children aged 6 to 13 years who were diagnosed with TBI (n = 113; mean 1.7 years postinjury) were compared with children with a trauma control injury (not involving the head) (n = 53). TBI severity was defined as mild TBI with or without risk factors for complicated TBI (mildRF+ TBI, n = 52; mildRF− TBI, n = 24) or moderate/severe TBI (n = 37). Behavioral functioning was assessed by using parent and teacher questionnaires, and the Attention Network Test assessed alerting, orienting, and executive attention. Ex-Gaussian modeling determined the contribution of extremely slow responses (lapses of attention) to mean reaction time (MRT).

RESULTS:

The TBI group showed higher parent and teacher ratings of attention and internalizing problems, higher parent ratings of externalizing problems, and lower intelligence than the control group (P < .05, d ≥ 0.34). No effect of TBI on alerting, orienting, and executive attention was observed (P ≥ .55). MRT was slower in the TBI group (P = .008, d = 0.45), traced back to increased lapses of attention (P = .002, d = 0.52). The mildRF− TBI group was unaffected, whereas the mildRF+ TBI and moderate/severe TBI groups showed elevated parent ratings of behavior problems, lower intelligence, and increased lapses of attention (P ≤ .03, d ≥ 0.48). Lapses of attention fully explained the negative relation between intelligence and parent-rated attention problems in the TBI group (P = .02).

CONCLUSIONS:

Lapses of attention represent a core attention deficit in children with mildRF+ TBI (even in the absence of intracranial pathology) or moderate/severe TBI, and relate to daily life problems after pediatric TBI.
Indicadores químicos de calidad de suelos en sistemas productivos del Piedemonte de los Llanos Orientales de Colombia
Authors: Jamioy Orozco Diego David , Menjivar Flores Juan Carlos , Rubiano Sanabria Yolanda
Published: August 2015

En sistemas productivos del Piedemonte de los Llanos Orientales de Colombia se evaluaron va-rios indicadores para determinar la calidad de los suelos de la región.  Para el efecto, en un muestreo aleatorio se incluyeron once sistemas y en cada uno de ellos se tomaron cinco mues-tras de suelo para evaluar las propiedades principales y seleccionar aquellas con posibilidades para ser incluidas como indicadores de calidad.  Los resultados de la caracterización completa fueron analizados mediante componentes principales (ACP).  Por su importancia fueron prioriza-das como indicadores de calidad las propiedades siguientes: carbono orgánico, pH, acidez inter-cambiable, calcio y magnesio intercambiable y hierro.  Con estos indicadores se propone una clasificación de la calidad química de los suelos de la región, que puede ser de gran utilidad en la implementación de sistemas de monitoreo que permitan la evaluación de la degradación de los suelos a través del tiempo debidos a cambios en los sistemas de uso.
Identificación de fructooligosacáridos e inulinas en residuos de hojas de fique -Furcraea macrophylla Baker
Authors: Guevara Apraez Claudia Sofia , Vallejo Castillo Elkin Javier
Published: August 2015

Colombia es un importante productor de cabuya, fibra natural extraída de fique (Furcraea macrophylla Baker).  La explotación de esta planta se caracteriza por productos y procesos tradicionales, poco tecnificados, de bajo valor agregado y con un aprovechamiento limitado de la planta de fique, lo que se traduce en baja rentabilidad. No obstante, en los residuos de este proceso agroindustrial se encuentran muchas sustancias de interés, aun sin by PriceMinus" href="#77276212"> explorar, entre ellas los carbohidratos, específicamente los fructanos, como la inulina y los fructooligosacaridos (FOS) que son polímeros de fructosa considerados fibra dietaría y que por sus características se clasifican como prebióticos.  En esta investigación se evidenció la presencia de FOS e inulinas en los residuos obtenidos durante el proceso de desfibrado de las hojas de fique a través de técnicas enzimáticas y espectro-fotométricas.  Debido a las amplias aplicaciones en el sector alimentario se recomienda su cuantificación, extracción y caracterización con el fin de proporcionar valor agregado a través de la explotación de estos compuestos.

 

 

 
Respuesta de Physalis peruviana a la fertilización con diferentes dosis de N, P y K en el Altiplano de Pasto, Colombia
Authors: Silva Parra Amanda , Albornoz Bucheli Cesar , Lagos Burbano Tulio Cesar , Checa Coral Oscar Eduardo
Published: August 2015

En un Andisol Typic dystrandept del Altiplano de Pasto (2800 m.s.n.m., 12.6°C, 820 mm/año y 900 h de luz solar), Colombia, se evaluaron algunas variables de crecimiento, contenido de nutrientes y producción de uvilla (Physalis peruviana) como respuesta a la fertilización con N, P y K. Los tratamientos consistieron en la aplicación de urea (46% N) como fuente de N, superfosfato triple-SPT (46% de P2O5) como fuente de P y cloruro de potasio-KCl (60% K2O) como fuente de K, en dosis iguales para cada fuente, de 80, 150 y 300 kg/ha/año aplicados en dos épocas al momento del trasplante y 30 días después, antes de la floración. Los resultados mostraron diferencias en fuentes y dosis (P ≤ 0.01) en todas las variables analizadas. Las dosis de 300 kg/ha de urea, 150 kg/ha de SPT y 300 kg/ha de KCl favorecieron la mayor altura de planta, la materia seca y la absorción de NPK (P ≤ 0.05). La absorción de N fue mayor que la de K y éste a su vez que la de P en todas las interacciones evaluadas (P ≤ 0.05). La aplicación de 300 kg/ha de cada uno de los fertilizantes ocasiono incremento del rendimiento de P. peruviana. Por otra parte, fueron encontrados efectos positivos en la absorción NPK en relación con los rendimientos de Physalis peruviana con 300 kg/ha de urea, 150 kg/ha de SPT y 300 kg/ha de KCl (P ≤ 0.05), por tanto se recomiendan estas dosis de fertilizantes.
Validación del método voltamétrico para la determinación de residuos de paraquat aplicado en cultivos de papa
Authors: Lara Sandoval Adriana Elizabeth , García Colmenares José Mauricio , Chaparro Acuña Sandra Patricia
Published: August 2015

La cuantificación de plaguicidas es un proceso costoso y de difícil acceso para los cultivadores y entidades de salud y vigilancia. En este trabajo se presenta la metodología de voltametría de onda cuadrada para la cuantificación de paraquat(gramoxone) en papa (Solanum tuberosum). El método de voltametría de onda cuadrada fue validado para la cuantificación de este herbicida en papa. El estudio fue realizado usando como electrolito de soporte solución buffer Britton-Robinson, electrodo de trabajo de carbón vítreo, Ag/AgCl como electrodo de referencia y platino como electrodo auxiliar. El herbicida en papa fue extraído por reparto sólido-líquido y los resultados obtenidos fueron contrastados por espectroscopía UV-Vis,lo que permitió deducir que el método voltamétrico genera resultados precisos y confiables. El método propuesto fue exitosamente aplicado para lacuantificación de paraquat en muestras de papa con resultados satisfactorios.

 
Efecto del tiempo y la temperatura de almacenamiento en la actividad de extractos etanólicos de Lantana cámara L. y Heliotropium indicum L. sobre Colletotrichum gloeosporioides
Authors: Infante Rafael Alejandro , Rodriguez Dorian Alcides , Sanabria Maria Elena , Ulacio Dilcia Milagros , Valera Rosario Emperatriz
Published: August 2015

En el estudio se evalúo el efecto del tiempo y la temperatura de almacenamiento de extractos etanólicos (EE) de Lantana camara L. (Verbenacea) y Heliotropium indicum L. (Boraginaceae) sobre Colletotrichum gloeosporioides. Los EE se almacenaron durante 1 año a 8 ± 2 y 26 ± 2 °C. Cada 2 meses se diluyeron en agar papa dextrosa (PDA) a concentraciones de 0, 0.5, 1 y 1.5% (v/v) sobre las cuales se colocó el hongo para medir la inhibición del crecimiento micelial (ICM) y la esporulación (IE); y en microcultivos en PDA, la germinación de conidios. Los EE almacenados a 8 ± 2 °C conservaron su efectividad durante 12 meses en todas las variables evaluadas, mientras que aquellos a 1.5% de concentración a 26 ± 2°C comenzaron a perder su efectividad a los 6 y 8 meses después de preparados, llegando hasta 3% de ICM, 4% de IE y 18% de germinación. Los resultados indicaron que la temperatura y el tiempo de almacenamiento son deter-minantes para la efectividad de los EE.
Actividad reproductiva después del anestro inducido con altrenogest en hembras de Tursiops truncatus en cautiverio en ambiente marino.
Authors: Herrera José , Sánchez R. , Bernal J. , López A. , Rivera J. G. , Guzmán A. , Ávalos A.
Published: August 2015

La necesidad de reproducir delfín nariz de botella (Tursiops truncatus) en cautiverio se ha incrementado debido a las restricciones internacionales para su comercialización y por el riesgo y dificultad logística para el traslado de ejemplares. Por lo anterior, se hace importante conocer su biología reproductiva en cautiverio. El objetivo de este trabajo, fue conocer los indicadores post tratamiento con altrenogest (Regumate®), de citología vaginal, niveles de estradiol y reinicio de la actividad reproductiva en cautiverio de hembras de T truncatus en ambiente marino. Por un año, 12 hembras recibieron diariamente una dosis de 0,07mg kg-1 de altrenogest. Se realizaron un total 420 citologías vaginales, una diaria de cada hembra, para determinar el porcentaje de células cornificadas.  También se obtuvieron de la red vascular, 60 muestras  sanguíneas, en las que se determinó los niveles de estradiol. En cuanto a la citología vaginal, al cuarto día de retirar la administración de altrenogest, el porcentaje total de células cornificadas incrementó del 60% a 70% hasta el día nueve y continuó ascendiendo al 80% entre los días 12 al 19. Los niveles de estradiol, presentaron un rango de 16 a 114pg ml-1. Se encontró una correlación (r = 0,7062 P<0.05) positiva entre estos indicadores. Se concluye que es posible la manipulación con altrenogest y el monitoreo del ciclo estral de las hembras mediante técnicas simples como la citología vaginal para el diseño de protocolos de reproducción asistida específicos para grupos en cautiverio de T truncatus.
Well-controllable Fabrication of Aligned ZnO Nanorods for Dye-sensitized Solar Cell Application
Authors: Li Chaoyang , Hou Shengwen
Published: August 2015

ZnO nanorods were synthesized by recrystallization of ZnO thin films during multiannealing process. It was found that the obtained ZnO nanorods showed well-controlled grown direction. The periodical oxygen introducing between reducing annealing processes was effective to help on the oxidization reaction, result in the ZnO nanorods growth significantly. With controlling the annealing parameters, the morphologies of ZnO nanorods could be also controlled. The low-temperature (less than 420°C) initial reducing annealing process contributed to control the density of ZnO nanorods. The multi-annealing processes could reduce the ZnO thin film to produce ZnO nanorods efficiently. The structural, optical and electrical properties of the ZnO nanorods were investigated. Finally, the obtained ZnO nanorods used as photoelectrodes demonstrated in a dye-sensitized solar cell, the overall conversion efficiency of 3.65% was achieved.
Variation in the Attitudes of Medical Oncologists Toward Research Biopsies in Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Seah Davinia S. , Scott Sarah , Guo Hao , Najita Julie , Lederman Ruth , Frank Elizabeth , Sohl Jessica , Stadler Zsofia , Silverman Stuart , Peppercorn Jeffrey , Winer Eric , Come Steve , Lin Nancy U.
Published: August 2015

Background.

Tissue from research biopsies provides access to insights into tumor biology. We aimed to determine medical oncologists’ (MOs’) attitudes toward research biopsies in patients with metastatic breast cancer (MBC).

Materials and Methods.

A total of 309 breast MOs from National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated cancer centers were invited to complete a self-administered survey about their attitudes toward approaching patients for research purpose-only biopsies (RPOBs), performed as a standalone procedure, or additional biopsies, performed with a clinically indicated biopsy. The MOs were asked to predict what proportion of their MBC patients would consider undergoing research biopsies.

Results.

Of the 309 MOs, 221 (72%) responded. Of these 221 MOs, 30 were ineligible, leaving 191 eligible responders. Nearly all the MOs reported they were comfortable approaching patients regarding research biopsies of blood or skin. One fifth of MOs were uncomfortable approaching patients for RPOBs of the breast. One half of MOs were uncomfortable approaching patients for RPOBs of the liver. A significant variation was found in the perceptions by MOs of their patients’ willingness to undergo research biopsies. The factors associated with increased comfort in approaching patients for research biopsies included fewer years in practice, caring for patients who had undergone recent research biopsies, and the predicted willingness of patients to consent to biopsies. The risk of a biopsy and biopsy-related pain were the most common reasons for reluctance to refer patients for research biopsies.

Conclusion.

Significant variation exists, even at NCI centers, in the comfort level of MOs in approaching MBC patients for research biopsies. MOs’ attitudes toward research biopsies might be a modifiable factor in increasing tissue collection for research.

Implications for Practice:

Tissue-based research is critical in advancing our understanding of cancer biology, and obtaining tissue from a research biopsy provides an essential resource. This study demonstrates the variability of oncologists’ attitudes toward research biopsies and elicits factors associated with increased comfort levels with approaching patients for research biopsies. Biopsy risk and biopsy-related pain were commonly cited reasons not to refer patients for research biopsies. If the risk of a research biopsy is deemed sufficiently low enough to be acceptable, oncologists’ attitudes might be a potential target for education and change, which may assist in increasing the availability of tissue for cancer research.
An improved SWE model for simulation of dam-break flows
Authors: Zhang Yong , Lin Pengzhi
Published: August 2015

A finite-difference method based on a shallow water equation (SWE) is developed in this study for simulation of dam-break flows. A second-order leap-frog scheme constructed in a staggered grid system is used to discretise the original SWE. To minimise the spurious fluctuations of the free surface near the moving front, an artificial diffusion term, which is simple, effective and easy to implement in the staggered-grid leap-frog system, is introduced on the right-hand side of the continuity equation. The model is verified against a wide range of classical analytical solutions, experimental data and other previous numerical results. The model is also validated against the real case of the Malpasset dam-break event. It is demonstrated that the improved model is well balanced and robust, and can accurately capture the movement of the dam-break flows.
Changes in the Distribution of After-Tax Wealth: Has Income Tax Policy Increased Wealth Inequality?
Authors: Looney Adam , Moore Kevin B.
Published: August 2015

A substantial share of the wealth of Americans is held in tax-deferred form such as in retirement accounts or as unrealized capital gains. Most data and statistics on assets and wealth is reported on a pre-tax basis, but pre-tax values include an implicit tax liability and may not provide as accurate a measure of the financial position or material well-being of families. In this paper, we describe the distribution of tax-deferred assets in the SCF from 1989 to 2013, provide new estimates of the income tax liabilities implicit in those assets, and present new statistics on the level and distribution of after-tax net worth. The results of our analysis suggest that, relative to published statistics on pre-tax net worth, the distribution of after-tax wealth is slightly less concentrated at each point in time and the effectiveness of the income tax system in reducing wealth inequality has decreased during the last decade. We find the reduction in the long-term capital gains rate is the primary reason for the muted effectiveness of the income tax system in reducing wealth inequality.
A Study of Pedagogical Conditions of Realization of Inclusive Education in Universities
Authors: Volkova V.V. , Mihalchi E.V.
Published: August 2015

The article provides a classification of pedagogical conditions of realization of inclusive education in the higher education system and their analysis in six universities in Moscow. The study involved 212 students from 1 to 4 year studying in different majors and levels of training. The study was conducted by surveying. To study the teaching conditions two groups were identified in a contingent of students: students with disabilities, and without deviations in health. For the analysis of the data we used correlation and factor analysis. The results of the study confirmed the theoretical structure of the classification and showed differences in the estimates of pedagogical conditions of implementation of inclusive education of students with disabilities, and without them. The theoretical framework for the analysis and classification can be used in practice for the study of pedagogical conditions of implementation of inclusive education in educational institutions of different tupes.
Higher Education Outcomes at the National Level on the Example of the Project “Collegiate Learning Assessment”
Authors: Sabelnikova E.V. , Khmeleva N.L.
Published: August 2015

We discuss the interpretation of the concept of “learning outcomes”. Theoretical analysis widely represents the interpretations of the learning outcomes of a high school student: academic skills: understanding, application of knowledge to solve problems, synthesis, analysis and evaluation; basic skills and basic knowledge, and skills of a higher order and advanced knowledge; skills of a higher order represented as a system of critical thinking, analytic reasoning, problem solving and written communication; wide abilities interpreted as verbal, quantitative and spatial thinking, understanding, problem solving and decision making. We conclude that each considered approach distinguishes meta-subjective skills,
i.e. skills to interact with the quality of information regardless of the context. The ability to measure the meta-skills is discussed on an example of the “Collegiate learning assessment”, realized in the United States.
A Study of Voluntary Regulation Components in Children of the First Grade
Authors: Savina E.A. , Logvinova A.E.
Published: August 2015

The present study examines the components of voluntary regulation in children of the first grade. Children (N = 82) were asked to perform tasks, measuring the ability of inhibition of verbal behavior (tests “yes-no”, “day-night”), working and short-term memory, knowledge of the rules of behavior in the classroom, the ability to follow a visual pattern (“Butterfly”) and verbal instruction (“Graphic dictation”). It has been found that girls have a higher regulation of verbal behavior than boys. It is shown that the working memory is an essential component of any regulation: for example, children with higher working memory abilities also showed a higher level of inhibition and the ability to follow the pattern and instructions. The regulation of verbal behavior is important both to follow verbal and visual pattern instructions and to control interference. The number of rules of conduct, provided by these children, was positively associated with the test that measures the ability to inhibit verbal behavior: “day-night”. The findings indicate the need for the formation in children of speech mediation activities and methods of working memory.
Studies of Speech Disorders in Schizophrenia. History and State-of-the-art
Authors: Shvedovskiy E.F. , Zvereva N.V.
Published: August 2015

The article reviews studies of speech disorders in schizophrenia. The authors paid attention to a historical course and characterization of studies of areas: the actual psychopathological (speech disorders as a psychopathological symptoms, their description and taxonomy), psychological (isolated neurons and pathopsychological perspective analysis) separately analyzed some modern foreign works, covering a variety of approaches to the study of speech disorders in the endogenous mental disorders. Disorders and features of speech are among the most striking manifestations of schizophrenia along with impaired thinking (Savitskaya A. V., Mikirtumov B. E.). With all the variety of symptoms, speech disorders in schizophrenia could be classified and organized. The few clinical psychological studies of speech activity in schizophrenia presented work on the study of generation and standard speech utterance; features verbal associative process, speed parameters of speech utterances. Special attention is given to integrated research in the mainstream of biological psychiatry and genetic trends. It is shown that the topic for more than a half-century history of originality of speech pathology in schizophrenia has received some coverage in the psychiatric and psychological literature and continues to generate interest in the modern integrated multidisciplinary approach.
EFFICIENCY OF CULTIVATION OF CEREAL - PAPILIONACEOUS MIXTURES IN ORGANIC FARMING CONDITIONS
Authors: Agafonova Ludmila , Jansons Aldis , Rancāne Sarmīte
Published: August 2015

Cultivation of cereal-papilionaceous grass crop mixtures allows for more substantial use of soil fertility and higher harvests than in case of homogeneous sowings. In mixed sowings, legume crops do not lodge; photosynthesis and nitrogenous fixation conditions are better; losses of harvest are lower. Our research is directed to examination of interrelations between peas, spring wheat and spring barley, as well as to high harvests, balanced in proteins and amino acids. Experiments were conducted in 2007-2008 in Skriveri, Latvia at the Research Institute of Agriculture. In the issue of studies established that not only has legume component increased cereals capacity, it has also improved its quality. Thus, conducted field experiments showed high efficiency of use of mixed cereal- legume mixtures, which becomes apparent in higher levels of farming productivity. The best indices in organic field conditions had mixtures of peas (20%), spring barley (40%) and spring wheat (40%), where noted high harvest and high content of protein, balanced in amino acids. Therefore, in planning cereal- legume agrophytocenosis, one should use three components: peas, spring barley and spring wheat.
SUITABILITY OF SPRING CEREALS FOR PRODUCTION OF HEAT ENERGY
Authors: Belicka Ina , Miglāne Viktorija , Jansone Zaiga
Published: August 2015

In future biomass are planned as main source as renewable energy. The grain and straw are as one of the representatives of biomass. During 2007 - 2008 in the State Stende Cereal Breeding Institute the investigations were carried out to define more accurately spring cereal–wheat, barley and oats for heat production. In the field experiment were sown 4 - 6 varieties from each species. The yield, chemical composition, the highest and lowest heating capacity of grain and straw were evaluated. The highest heating capacity for grain was 15475 - 16994 and the lowest – 13828 - 15356 kJ kg-1; in straw – 15788 - 16840 and 14106 - 15230 kJ kg-1respectively. Accordingly to this value the cereal species arranged in the following order: oats, barley and wheat. The varieties of cereal were differed in heating capacity depending on chemical composition. Significant positive correlation was observed between grain heating capacity and fat (r = 0.993; r0.01 = 0.684), and fiber (r= 0.838; r0.01 = 0.684), but significant negative correlation with starch (r = - 0.847; r0.01 = 0.684).
THE IMPACT OF CONCENTRATION OF REGIONAL CONDITIONS AND PRODUCTION RESOURCES ON THE SOWING PRODUCTIVITY
Authors: Borovko Lilija , Ruža Līga
Published: August 2015

The implementation of long-termed Latvia’s development envisages the bio-fuel producing. It has been stated: the bio-fuel producing must use, in the first place, the agricultural resources grown within Latvia's territory. Among the main bio-fuel producing resources ranks rapeseed, and in Latvia developed industrial rapeseed producing connected with the concentration of agricultural resources, and the regional specialization. Especially actual is the research of the regional conditions and the impact of the concentration of production resources on the productivity of rape sowings. Our research showed that the most important rapeseed producers are the big enterprises concentrating the three fourths of the total rape sowings. One fifth of the total rapeseed sowings take medium-make farms, nevertheless the specific weight of the total rapeseed yield within this group is for one third lower than within the big enterprise group. Very few smaller farms grow rape, and small-scale farms don't grow it at all. Rapeseed productivity remarkably differs form one region to the other, and is determined not by natural factors (soil, climate etc.) alone, but, to a great extent, by the resources (manure, plant protection means) used per one territory unit as well.
THE IMPACT OF UNREGULATED FACTOR INFLUENCE ON WINTER WHEAT GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Authors: Dinaburga Gundega , Lapiņš Dainis , Bērziņš Andris
Published: August 2015

The modern meaning of accurate crop cultivation is closely associated with the new information technologies - geographic information and global positioning systems. Latvia has not published the results of research on soil conditions and the impact of unregulated factors of production conditions on winter wheat growth and yield. Analysis of results of studies aimed to clarify the difference of soil treatment facilities, as the criteria for the treatment of soil using soil characterizing Non-plant growth and development factors. Investigations were carried out in 2005 – 2007 on the production plantations of the Kurpnieki field, the Vecauce Study and Research Farm of the Latvia University of Agriculture. The results, while on a previous year, research on soil management measures to optimize the opportunities associated with global positioning systems, precision field management implementation practice shows that in order to obtain objective indicators and to gain the desired results, it was not enough for one season observation, since a large role in shaping the harvest is the meteorological conditions during the growing period. Unregulated factors: organic matter content, Ap horizon thickness, as well as the relative height above sea-level properties of materials research is the prerequisite for geographic information system-based resource-saving cultivation technology field-crop cultivation.
ECOLOGICALLY SAFETY STORAGE OF HIGH-SULFUR COAL WASTES AND TECHNOLOGIES OF THEIR PROCESSING
Authors: Dmitriev Alexei P. , Zilberscmidt Mikhail G. , Shpirt Mikhail Ja.
Published: August 2015

There are shown the data on composition and technological properties of solid wastes with high sulphur contents after coal mining and preparation (SCWHS) in Russia. The natural processes causing the pollution of the environment due to contents of sulphur and some potentially toxic elements in these wastes are considered. However these wastes may be promising as raw materials for producing some saleable products. According to Russian regulation a payment for wastes storing depends on so called their class of danger (CD). Methods for the CD determination for coal wastes are described. Results of simulating of thermal treatment in different conditions of SCWHC are shown. Using these results some processes of SCWHS utilization are proposed to produce some valuable products. Some new criteria based on Russian regulations are worked out to determine an ecological danger of mine waters of Russian enterprises and promising methods of mine waters cleaning and utilization. There were conducted experimental investigations on the localization of ecologically dangerous products forming due to interaction of SCWHS with waters flowing through SCWHS damps. Some carbonate rocks and fly ashes were tried for this purpose. There were found that the localization is occurred due to forming of new minerals along with a delaying of the oxidation of sulphides containing in SCWHS. Using these results grounds of some methods are proposed to decrease concentrations of ecologically toxic elements ( Fe, Al, Ni, Cu, Cr, Zn, As, Pd und oth.) till values considerably less than permitted ones in waters flowing through SCWHS damps. New promising results of experiments on laboratory and industrial installations were got for using these technologies with carbonate rocks for enterprises in central Russia.