bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Bizarre Death Caused by a Model Airplane
Authors: Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

This paper describes examinations conducted on fracture surfaces on the horizontal stabilizer of a large radio-controlled model airplane. This stabilizer separated from the aircraft in flight, causing it to go out of control and crash into a bystander who was casually observing the flight. The bystander suffered a ruptured liver and bled to death internally within a short time. In the course of a subsequent lawsuit, it was revealed that the horizontal stabilizer had broken off the plane in a previous flight and had been repaired. Infrared analysis was used to identify the glues used to effect the repair. Microscopic examinations provided evidence of multiple repairs and demonstrated the poor quality of the repairs. This case emphasizes the importance of a careful visual examination of items of evidence as an adjunct to chemical and instrumental analyses.
Analysis of Fire Debris Samples by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS): Case Studies
Authors: Nowicki J
Published: August 2015

Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC-MS) is a powerful tool for analyzing fire debris samples for the presence of accelerants. By generating ion profiles for specific chemical classes, GC-MS allows conclusive determinations to be made in some situations where GC-FID is insufficient. Three case examples that illustrate the use of GC-MS and ion profile techniques are presented here.
Endotracheal Tube Ignition by Electrocautery During Tracheostomy: Case Report with Autopsy Findings
Authors: Lew EO , Mittleman RE , Murray D
Published: August 2015

This case of upper airway tract fire resulting from the use of electrocautery during elective tracheostomy has significance for surgeons, anesthetists, and forensic pathologists alike. The major autopsy findings are described and illustrated. Suggestions that may help to prevent or minimize the risk of fire in this context are reviewed.
A Review of Witnesses from the Grave: The Stories Bones Tell
Authors: Sullivan WB
Published: August 2015

Witnesses from the Grave promises to “explore the world of Forensic Anthropology through the eyes of one of its foremost practitioners, Clyde Snow.” The promise is kept for both the forensic science practitioner and the general reader.
Evaluation of a Photodiode Array/HPLC-Based System for the Detection and Quantitation of Basic Drugs in Postmortem Blood
Authors: Koves EM , Wells J
Published: August 2015

A systematic analytical approach has been developed for liquid chromatography determination of a number of basic drugs in postmortem blood. Using selective extraction, that is, back extraction into 0.2N sulfuric acid and 6N hydrochloric acid after the initial extraction with toluene under basic conditions (from 2 mL of blood), basic and weakly basic drugs, such as propranolol and diazepam, can be simultaneously quantitated and identified with a high degree of confidence. A microcomputer-based photodiode array detector was used to evaluate peak purity and facilitate peak identification. An automatic library search was performed at the end of each analysis using the system software. The method was validated for within-day and between-day precision for ten basic drugs at two concentrations. The coefficient of variation for the between-day precision was less than 8.7%. Accuracy of the assay was tested at four concentrations using linear regression analysis. The coefficients of determination (r2) for all ten drugs were greater than 0.99, and their slopes were close to unity. The chromatographic conditions developed are suitable for the screening of several basic, acidic, amphoteric, and neutral drugs. Retention data and ultraviolet spectral data for 119 drugs on two reversed-phase columns, using acidic mobile phases, are also presented.
Computer-Assisted Facial Reproduction
Authors: Ubelaker DH , O'Donnell G
Published: August 2015

Electronic imaging equipment originally developed to illustrate aging of missing persons has been utilized in facial reproduction from skeletal remains. The technique produces rapid, economical, and realistic facial images in a manner that eliminates the need for photography and maximizes interaction and communication between the artist and the anthropologist.
A Review of Forensic Engineering Reconstruction of Accidents
Authors: Nelson TS , Feder KR
Published: August 2015

On first reading this book the reviewers were somewhat disappointed. After reflecting on the material presented, we realized that we had been expecting a technical expose on engineering principles, and the book fell short of that expectation. Although some basic formulas are presented, the book seems to be intended as a discourse on the fundamentals of technical investigations rather than the typical formula derivation, example, and solution philosophy. As such, this narrative overview of forensic engineering investigations is very well written and presents the reader with a refreshing and interesting approach to technical literature. Although this book cannot be fully appreciated by the novice investigator, the experienced forensic engineer will find many areas worth rereading.
Isoelectric Focusing of Human Hair Keratins: Correlation with Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate-Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) Patterns and Effect of Cosmetic Treatments
Authors: Rodriguez-Calvo MS , Carracedo A , Muñoz I , Concheiro L
Published: August 2015

A new isoelectric focusing (IEF) technique in polyacrylamide gels with 6M urea and 1.5% Nonidet P40 has been developed to characterize human hair samples. The phenotypes demonstrated with this procedure has been correlated with the sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) patterns described by other authors. The method described can be applied in the forensic science analysis of a single human hair. Using the same IEF technique we have studied the changes in electrophoretic patterns of cosmetically treated hair. The characteristics of the modifications observed and its utility in forensic science work are also discussed in this paper.
Fourier Transform Infrared Analyses of Some Particulate Drug Mixtures Using a Diamond Anvil Cell with a Beam Condenser and an Infrared Microscope
Authors: Suzuki EM
Published: August 2015

Although the diamond anvil cell (DAC) has been used in many forensic science laboratories for the analysis of trace evidence, few applications of this technique for the analysis of controlled substances have been reported. This may be due to both an unfamiliarity on the part of forensic drug chemists with this accessory and the nature and quality of spectra that result from use of a DAC on a dispersive instrument. Along with low energy throughput, which results in relatively high noise levels, strong broad diamond absorptions occur. With the use of a Fourier transform infrared instrument, these do not present a problem and nanogram quantities of materials can be analyzed when the DAC is used with an infrared microscope. Since single crystals can be sampled with the DAC, simple physical separations (involving particle-picking) can be used in certain cases to isolate drugs from particulate mixtures for infrared analysis. This method is especially useful for some “difficult” mixtures and residues, and several examples of such analyses involving samples of forensic science interest are presented.
Fourier Transform Infrared/Raman Differentiation and Characterization of Cis- and Trans-2,5-Dimethoxy-4,β-Dimethyl-β'-Nitrostyrenes: Precursors to the Street Drug STP
Authors: By A , Neville GA , Shurvell HF
Published: August 2015

Fourier transform Raman and infrared spectra of pure cis(Z)- and trans(E)- 2,5-dimethoxy-4,β-dimethyl-β-nitrostyrene (precursors of the psychotomimetic street drug STP or DOM) were recorded in the solid state. The spectra show characteristic features of the ethylene moiety and of the aryl and nitro substituents which permit ready differentiation and identification of these isomers. A very strong Raman line at 1670 cm−1 from the cis isomer for the C=C stretching mode, in comparison with a strong Raman line at 1641 cm−1 for the trans isomer, affords primary differentiation of these substances. A second characteristic, of both the Raman and infrared (IR) spectra, is that the frequency of the strong symmetric nitro (NO2) stretching band is about 40 cm−1 higher in the cis (1346 cm−1) than the trans isomer (1301 cm−1). All major IR and Raman bands are reported and given vibrational assignments.
Neck Injuries: II. Atlantoaxial Dislocation—A Pathologic Study of 14 Traffic Fatalities
Authors: Adams VI
Published: August 2015

C1–C2 vertebral dislocations have not been commonly recognized at autopsy. Among 66 subjects with neck injuries, drawn from a series of 155 traffic fatalities, were 14 with injuries at the level of the atlantoaxial motion segment, ranging in age from 8 months to 93 years. Thirteen had sprains or lacerations of the atlantoaxial facet joints, and one had a healed C1 fracture. Six of the 14 had odontoid fractures. None had transverse ligament lacerations. Injuries of the alar ligaments and the tectorial membrane were frequent. Only 3 subjects had subaxial cervical injury. All 14 had evidence of impact to the head or neck. Four had fractures of the mandible or facial bones, and 5 had skull fractures. Subdural and subarachnoid hemorrhages were found in 7 and 6, respectively. Brainstem lacerations were not uncommon, but only one had a pontomedullary laceration. Spinomedullary cord injuries occurred in 5. Acute neurogenic shock was the major mechanism of death in 9 of the 14, including 5 with major cardiovascular lacerations. Delayed effects of craniocerebral trauma accounted for the majority of the remainder. The biomechanical mechanisms are discussed.
A Microscopic Comparison of Fresh and Burned Bone
Authors: Neson R , Neson R
Published: August 2015

Examination of miscrostructure of human bone is useful in estimating age at death in forensic science cases. This technique has been tested and is well accepted, however samples of burned bone may complicate analysis because of possible changes in the microstructure occurring during the burning process. In a comparison of fresh and burned ground thin sections taken from midshaft femorae of eight dissecting-room cadavers of known age and sex, this study finds significant shrinkage of microstructural elements through the burning process. These results are compared to previous work on the subject, which found the microstructural elements to increase through the burning process.
Laser Fingerprint Detection Under Background Light Interference
Authors: Li W , Ma c , Jiang H , Wu C , Lu Z , Wang B , Lin B
Published: August 2015

A gateable, image-intensified laser system that permits detection of latent fingerprints under high background light is described. The system is intended for crime-scene work and for daylight conditions.
A Death Involving Probenecid
Authors: McIntyre IM , Crump K , Roberts AN , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

A death following deliberate ingestion of approximately 75 g of probenecid in a 36-year-old man is described. Tissue concentrations of probenecid were highest in serum (710 mg/L) and liver (550 mg/kg). Probenecid was also detected in vitreous and bile. Ethanol was also detected in blood at 0.13 g/100 mL.
Fatal Hydrocarbon Lipoid Pneumonia and Pneumonitis Secondary to Automatic Transmission Fluid Ingestion
Authors: Perrot LJ , Palmer H
Published: August 2015

This is the first reported case of an unusual exogeneous lipoid pneumonia with marked interstitial pneumonitis and fibrosis along with generalized diffuse omental oozing developing in a 14-month-old child following ingestion of automatic transmission fluid.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to the Detection of Clandestine Graves
Authors: France DL , Griffin TJ , Swanburg JG , Lindemann JW , Clark Davenport G , Trammell V , Armbrust CT , Kondratieff B , Nelson A , Castellano K , Hopkins D
Published: August 2015

A multidisciplinary team that is comprised of professionals from industry, academia, and law enforcement who are studying methods to locate clandestine graves has been formed in Colorado. This article describes this team, research conducted, and preliminary results directed toward identifying the most effective means of locating buried bodies.
A Comparison of Models Used for Calculation of RFLP Pattern Frequencies
Authors: Herrin G
Published: August 2015

In recent years the application of DNA typing information to criminal investigations has gained widespread acceptance. The primary method currently in use relies on length variation of DNA restriction fragments between individuals. These variations are identified using variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) DNA probes. As this technology becomes more widely used, it is crucial that scientifically valid methods of interpreting the significance of a DNA typing result be adopted. The method chosen should not only give a reliable approximation of the statistical likelihood of a particular RFLP pattern occurring, but should also be easy to present and for the court to understand. In this manuscript five methods of calculating a frequency of occurrence of a RFLP pattern will be presented (fixed bin genotype, floating bin phenotype, floating bin genotype, National Research Council (NRC) method using fixed bins and the NRC method using floating bins). The calculations discussed here demonstrated that the fixed bin genotype method produces a frequency very similar to that obtained from floating bin phenotypes. In addition, regardless of the method chosen or the database size, the frequency of any particular banding pattern in the population over several loci was found to be very rare.
Surface Contamination by TNT
Authors: Bender E , Hogan A , Leggett D , Miskolczy G , MacDonald S
Published: August 2015

We have performed experiments that indicate TNT contamination is present on surfaces exposed to TNT vapor, and that TNT contamination is transferred rapidly between proximate surfaces. Contaminated surfaces continue to be nearly constant sources of TNT vapor for some time after removal of the primary source.
Optimal Placement of Unified Power Flow Controller by Dynamic Implementation of System-Variable-Based Voltage-Stability Indices to Enhance Voltage Stability
Authors: Ahmad Shameem , Albatsh Fadi M. , Mekhilef Saad , Mokhlis Hazlie
Published: August 2015

A new approach of unified power flow controller (UPFC) optimal placement in the power system network based on dynamic analysis of voltage stability is presented in this paper. Voltage stability indices (VSIs), called line stability index LQP, voltage collapse point indicators (VCPIs), and line stability factor Lmn have been employed to explore the most suitable location for UPFC. The locations of UPFC are identified by dynamically varying loads across all the PQ buses by different percentages to satisfy the real power system conditions. The simulations are conducted in a power system computer-aided design (PSCAD) environment where IEEE-39 bus system has been chosen as case study. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been ensured from the simulation results because UPFC's placement in the obtained locations resulted in an improved voltage stability condition. Furthermore, to verify the suitability of the explored locations, a comparative study has been conducted after placing UPFC in the present locations and other locations obtained using optimization techniques like particle swarm optimization (PSO), differential evolution (DE), genetic algorithm (GA), and bacteria foraging algorithm (BFA). In all the cases, UPFC's placement in the identified locations using the proposed approach has resulted in better voltage stability condition improvement compared to heuristics approaches.
Disruption of the autoinhibited state primes the E3 ligase parkin for activation and catalysis
Authors: Kumar Atul , Aguirre Jacob D , Condos Tara EC , Martinez‐Torres R Julio , Chaugule Viduth K , Toth Rachel , Sundaramoorthy Ramasubramanian , Mercier Pascal , Knebel Axel , Spratt Donald E , Barber Kathryn R , Shaw Gary S , Walden Helen
Published: August 2015

The PARK2 gene is mutated in 50% of autosomal recessive juvenile parkinsonism (ARJP) cases. It encodes parkin, an E3 ubiquitin ligase of the RBR family. Parkin exists in an autoinhibited state that is activated by phosphorylation of its N‐terminal ubiquitin‐like (Ubl) domain and binding of phosphoubiquitin. We describe the 1.8 Å crystal structure of human parkin in its fully inhibited state and identify the key interfaces to maintain parkin inhibition. We identify the phosphoubiquitin‐binding interface, provide a model for the phosphoubiquitin–parkin complex and show how phosphorylation of the Ubl domain primes parkin for optimal phosphoubiquitin binding. Furthermore, we demonstrate that the addition of phosphoubiquitin leads to displacement of the Ubl domain through loss of structure, unveiling a ubiquitin‐binding site used by the E2~Ub conjugate, thus leading to active parkin. We find the role of the Ubl domain is to prevent parkin activity in the absence of the phosphorylation signals, and propose a model for parkin inhibition, optimization for phosphoubiquitin recruitment, release of inhibition by the Ubl domain and engagement with an E2~Ub conjugate. Taken together, this model provides a mechanistic framework for activating parkin.
The growth response to GH treatment is greater in patients with SHOX enhancer deletions compared to SHOX defects
Authors: Donze S H , Meijer C R , Kant S G , Zandwijken G R J , van der Hout A H , van Spaendonk R M L , van den Ouweland A M W , Wit J M , Losekoot M , Oostdijk W
Published: August 2015

Objective

Short stature caused by point mutations or deletions of the short stature homeobox (SHOX) gene (SHOX haploinsufficiency (SHI)) is a registered indication for GH treatment. Patients with a SHOX enhancer deletion (SED) have a similar phenotype, but their response to GH is unknown. It is uncertain if duplications of SHOX or its enhancer (SDUP) cause short stature. This study aimed to describe the clinical characteristics and growth response to GH treatment in patients with aberrations of SHOX and its enhancers.

Design

In this retrospective multi-center study (2002–March 2014) clinical information was available from 130 patients (72 SHI, 44 SED, and 14 SDUP) of whom 52 patients were treated with GH. We evaluated height, sitting height (SH), arm span, dysmorphic features and indicators of the growth response to GH (delta height SDS, height velocity, and index of responsiveness).

Results

Patients with SEDs showed similar HtSDS to patients with SHI (−2.3 and −2.6, respectively, P=0.2), but they were less disproportionate (SH/height ratio SDS 2.0 vs 3.1 (P<0.01) and extremities/trunk ratio 2.57 vs 2.43 (P=0.03)). The 1st year growth response to GH treatment was significantly greater in prepubertal patients with SEDs than SHI. None of the patients with an SDUP was disproportionate and SDUP cosegregated poorly with short stature; their growth response to GH treatment (n=3) was similar to the other groups.

Conclusions

Patients with SEDs are equally short, but less disproportionate than patients with SHI, and show a greater response to GH.
Polo camiño, polo camiño adiante e camiño adiante, tres fórmulas do locativo por onde en galego
Authors: Domínguez Portela Soraya
Published: August 2015

Este artigo propón unha análise do funcionamento das construcións tipo camiño adiante, isto é, a xuntanza dun substantivo e dun adverbio para indicar lugar por onde. Esta fórmula concorre, en desvantaxe no uso, con outras estruturas para expresar a dita indicación locativa, de maneira que para coñecer e entender o funcionamento da primeira debemos ter unha visión en contraste coas outras. Para desenvolver esta investigación baseámonos nun traballo de análise de corpus con rexistros extraídos de producións lingüísticas reais tiradas do Tesouro Informático da Lingua Galega. A visión contrastiva levounos a percibir que as diferentes opcións funcionan como un contínuum que ten os seus estremos na construción con preposición por (polo camiño) —presentándose esta como a fórmula non marcada para indicar lugar por onde— e o acusativo locativo (dentro do esquema argumental de verbos de movemento transitivos, colleu o camiño). Nos estadios intermedios encontraríase a estrutura que é o obxecto do noso estudo e unha intermedia coa que comparte moitos aspectos do seu funcionamento: polo camiño adiante. Aínda encadrándose nun contínuum construtivo, ou xustamente por poderen ser explicadas deste modo, cada unha das alternativas das que dispón a falante conta coas súas especificidades construtivas e tampouco son absolutamente equivalentes a respecto da información que transmiten.
Rumos e ritmos da mudança linguística: alternância vocálica e flexão de número em português
Authors: Almeida Santos Isabel
Published: August 2015

O português marca sufixalmente, em nomes e adjetivos, o valor de plural. No entanto, nalgumas palavras, um mecanismo de alternância vocálica ([o]/[ɔ]) colabora na marcação das oposições de número. Pretendese, então, neste trabalho, dar conta das questões descritivas associadas a esse mecanismo, relacionando a sua dimensão sincrónica com as suas coordenadas históricas. Para tal, i) analisar-se-á a questão fonológica subjacente à alternância; ii) prestar-se-á atenção à sua dimensão morfolexical; iii) apresentar-se-ão os aspetos históricos que, entre outras coisas, dão sustentação empírica às análises sincrónicas. Observar-se-á, então, que um processo histórico de assimilação leva à constituição do mecanismo em análise, mas que fenómenos posteriores de analogia complexificam o seu funcionamento, determinando diferentes rumos de mudança. Dar-se-á relevo ao facto de a assistematicidade no estabelecimento de analogia(s) e o caráter lexicalmente idiossincrático da alternância [o]/[ɔ] conduzir à existência de hesitações e usos variantes. Ao mesmo tempo, mostrar-se-á que a dimensão ortoépica que a questão assume não é necessariamente regulada pelas diferentes fontes codificatórias, em muitos casos dissimuladoras da complexidade dos usos.
Rosa Virgínia Mattos e Silva e a história social linguística do Brasil
Authors: Lobo Tânia
Published: August 2015

Rosa Virgínia Mattos Silva representa, na segunda metade do século XX, um pensamento vivo e instigante sobre a história social linguística do Brasil. Neste texto, homenageio esta eminente linguista, discutindo cinco das suas principais proposições sobre o tema, a saber: 1) A história linguística do Brasil não se restringe à história da língua portuguesa no Brasil, nem à história do português brasileiro. 2) O português brasileiro emerge em contexto multilíngue: o contato linguístico é, pois, elemento constitutivo da sua formação. 3) Na cena linguística do Brasil colonial, destacam-se três atores principais: o português europeu, as línguas gerais indígenas e o português geral brasileiro. 4) Africanos e afrodescendentes foram os principais difusores da língua portuguesa no Brasil e os principais formatadores do português brasileiro em sua variante social majoritária — o português popular brasileiro. 5) O passado sócio-histórico-linguístico do Brasil deverá ser interpretado para a compreensão do português brasileiro «heterogêneo e variável, plural e polarizado» da atualidade.
Convergências lexicais: a área dos olhos no Atlas Lingüístico Galego e no Atlas Lingüístico do Paraná
Authors: De Andrade Aguilera Vanderci , Da Silva Hélen Cristina
Published: August 2015

Este artigo tem como objetivo apresentar alguns pontos de convergência entre as variantes lexicais de dois corpora geolinguísticos: de um lado, o volume V do Atlas Lingüístico Galego - ALGa (García et alii 2005) e, de outro, o Atlas Lingüístico do Paraná – ALPR (Aguilera 1994) e o Atlas Lingüístico do Paraná II - ALPR II (Altino 2005). Para isso, selecionamos, do Campo semântico Corpo Humano, as cartas que se referem à área dos olhos. Para a análise adotamos os métodos geolinguístico e o lexicológico uma vez que buscamos, na distribuição espacial e na dicionarização dos vocábulos, os subsídios para esclarecer a presença de variantes comuns em ambos os corpora. A análise indicou que determinadas variantes, ainda vigentes na fala rural paranaense, estão ligadas a formas galegas e que alguns processos metonímicos e de criação lexical atuam da mesma forma nas duas línguas. Ademais, constatamos que as tendências sociais referentes ao item lexical capela foram processados de forma similiar nos três contextos linguísticos, ou seja, galego, português europeu e dialeto paranaense. Esta convergência pode ser ilustrada com: (i) a distribuição diatópica de variantes, como capela, no dialeto paranaense e no português europeu e a sua presença, embora esparsa, na língua galega; (ii) a atribuição de mais de um significado ao mesmo conceito, como pestana que, em ambos os atlas, pode significar tanto pálpebra como cílios; (iii) a criação de nomes populares resultantes da extensão de significado ou da atribuição de formas genéricas, como em piel, tapa, papo, no ALGa e pele, couro, no ALPR, em substituição a formas eruditas, como pálpebra.
Regionų transformacijos į sumaniuosius konceptualus modelis
Authors: Dapkus Rimantas , Kuleševičiūtė Aušra Ona
Published: August 2015

The article focus on problems of transforming undeveloped regions to smart ones, while pay attention to specific characteristics of the region and synergy of different characteristics. The aim of the article is to prepare the conceptual model based on the most important characteristics of the place-based strategy. This model can be used to identify unique characteristics of a region and improve competitiveness. The proposed conceptual model and argued importance of its elements for sustainable growth of undeveloped regions. Results can be used to prepare an innovative strategy for the regional development, which may strengthen the competitiveness of the region, ensure sustainable development and can be as a tool for the modern public governing.
Darbo užmokestį lemiantys veiksniai: Lietuvos žemės ūkio sektoriaus atvejis
Authors: Šilingienė Violeta , Stukaitė Dalia , Radvila Gintautas
Published: August 2015

In the scientific literature the problematic of the salary and wage gets a lot of attention, however mostly of research is limited either by modeling of the theoretical determinants that determine the level of wages or by analyzing the effect of separate individual determinants on the level of company or a specific occupation. Meanwhile, on the sector, as well as on the agricultural sector, level there is not much of research or they are fragmented. The scientific problem of the article: what external determinants have a significant impact on the level of wages in the agricultural sector? That implies the study objective – how the determinants affect wages of agricultural sector. The methods of the research: a systematic analysis of the scientific literature, the study and analysis of legislation, the analysis of quantitative statistical data and correlation analysis. Main results: common determinants affecting wage level are being supplemented with determinants of kind of economic activities; wages in the agricultural sector depend on all the examined determinants, however effects are different. It has been disclosed that the agricultural sector’s wages in Lithuania are more than average affected by a minimum monthly wage, capital investment and direct foreign investment; less by basic monthly salary, the number of unemployed persons and gross value added.
Energy Conversion using electrolytic concentration gradients
Authors: Chittur K Subramaniam , Chandran Aishwarya , Khandelwal Ashwini , A Sivakumar
Published: August 2015

Salinity gradient is an enormous source of clean energy. A process for potential generation from an ionic concentration gradient produced in single and multicell assembly is presented. The ionic gradient is created using a fuel cell type cell with a micro-porous ion exchange membrane, both anionic (AEM) and cationic (CEM). Various salinity gradients, Salt : Fresh, from 100 : 0 to 16000 : 0 was established using NaCl solution, in the electrode chambers. A potential of 20 mV/cm to 25 mV/cm can be realized at ambient temperatures and pressures for a bipolar AEM/CEM cell. The performance was optimized for various static and dynamic flow rates of the saline and fresh water. The cell performance can further be optimized for Membrane Electrode System (MES) morphology. A multicell unit was assembled and the results presented for various conditions like concentration gradients, flow rates and pressure. The thermodynamic and electrical efficiency needs to be evaluated for various gradients and flow rates. The relation with number of valance electrons/ ion and the potential generated changes for various dynamic condition of salinity. The higher the salinity gradient the larger is the potential generated. This is limited by the membrane characteristics. There exists a monotonic relation between the number of valence electron/ion/unit time and the potential generated up to about 16000 concentration. The membrane characteristics have been studied for optimal ion crossover for various gradients and flow. The graph between ln (gradient) versus Voltage provides insights into this process. This presents a very cost effective and clean process of energy conversion.
OnabotulinumtoxinA for trigeminal neuralgia: a review of the available data
Authors: Kowacs Pedro A. , Utiumi Marco A. T. , Nascimento Fábio A. , Piovesan Elcio J. , Teive Helio A. G.
Published: August 2015

Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) patients may develop side effects from centrally acting drugs, have contraindications for neurosurgical procedures, or experience relapse during conventional therapies. OnabotulinumtoxinA (BoNT/A) has been reported to be effective for TN, although this finding has been challenged. An overview of the available evidence based on a narrative/qualitative analysis of the literature is presented. About 90% of patients who receive BoNT/A show an improvement, a higher figure than that reported for the placebo effect of BoNT/A for other headaches. Tolerability of BoNT/A is good, and its few side-effects are transient. The articles reviewed were mainly case reports, case series and open-label trials; however, randomized controlled trials have endorsed the efficacy of BoNT/A for TN. This evidence, together with a better understanding of the analgesic mechanisms of BoNT/A and its proven efficacy in treating other pain syndromes, supports the use of this toxin as a therapeutic option for TN.
Reflexões sobre a metodologia de pesquisa nos estudos literários
Authors: DURÃO Fabio Akcelrud
Published: August 2015

A relação entre literatura e pesquisa é conflituosa. Se por um lado é essa última que torna factível a inserção dos estudos literários na universidade, por outro, quando convertida em uma prática dominante, a pesquisa tende a deformar tanto obras quanto leitores. O presente artigo pretende caracterizar concisamente o campo de forças gerado pela ascensão da pesquisa nos estudos literários em diversos de seus aspectos mais relevantes, desde a configuração do ato interpretativo até o funcionamento dos aparatos educacionais.
Epistemologias na introdução e no desenvolvimento de práticas escritas: identidades em jogo
Authors: CORRÊA Manoel Luiz Gonçalves
Published: August 2015

Assumo, neste artigo, que o trabalho com qualquer fato de realidade se dá a partir de alguma reflexão sobre o conhecimento, seja essa reflexão una ou dispersa, explícita ou implícita. Penso conhecimento como modo de acesso ao mundo e ao outro e trato, em particular, do trabalho com práticas escritas. Com o objetivo de mostrar que a reflexão sobre o conhecimento tem papel fundamental nas possíveis identidades dos sujeitos inscritos nessas práticas, procuro ilustrar, com passagens históricas significativas, a introdução e o desenvolvimento da escrita na vida dos brasileiros.
Fitorreguladores e espectros de luz na micropropagação de Oncidium baueri Lindl
Authors: Camargo Samila Silva , Rodrigues Daniele Brandstetter , Rodrigues Caroline Moreira , Assis Adriane Marinho de , Faria Ricardo Tadeu de , Schuch Márcia Wullf
Published: August 2015

Considerando que algumas espécies de orquídeas estão ameaçadas de extinção, a micropropagação é uma alternativa para a produção de um grande número de mudas com qualidade, em curto espaço de tempo. Dentre os fatores que poderão interferir na eficácia dessa técnica, podem ser citados os fitorreguladores e o espectro da luz. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho foi verificar a multiplicação e o enraizamento in vitro da orquídea Oncidium baueri com uso de diferentes concentrações de fitorreguladores e distintos filtros modificadores da luz natural. Para a multiplicação dos explantes, foram avaliados dois fatores: diferentes concentrações de 6-benzilaminopurina (BAP) (0, 1,0 e 2,0mg L-1) e espectro de luz, com uso ou não de filtros (azul, vermelho, verde); no período de enraizamento, testaram-se duas concentrações de ácido indolbutírico (AIB) (0 e 0,1mg L-1) e os mesmos níveis de luz. Concluiu-se que, durante a multiplicação, a não utilização de BAP e filtros proporciona maior número de folhas, brotações e maior comprimento dessas brotações. Na etapa de enraizamento, obtiveram-se raízes mais desenvolvidas em meio de cultura com 0,1mg L-1 de AIB.
Nutrional status and dietary factors in cystic fibrosis patients with delta F508 mutation
Authors: SANTOS Carina de Sousa , STEEMBURGO Thais
Published: August 2015

Objective To examine the association between nutritional status and dietary factors in children and adolescents with cystic fibrosis that are carriers of delta F508 mutation. Methods Cross-sectional study of cystic fibrosis children and adolescents. Nutritional status (body mass index percentile) and dietary intake (3-day diet records presented as a percentage of estimated energy requirement) were assessed. Results Thirty six patients (median of 8.6; interquartile range 6.8-12.5 years; 50% male). The Poisson regression analysis showed that the carriers for delta F508 mutation had 60% lower prevalence ratio of body mass index ≥25° (PR=0.4; 95%IC=0.2-0.8) and 90% lower prevalence ratio (PR=0.1; confidence interval 95%IC=0.02-0.3) of ≥150% of estimated energy requirement when compared with non-delta F508 mutation carriers. The model was adjusted for lung function, estimated energy requirement, and body mass index. Conclusion Carriers for delta F508 mutation showed lower body mass index percentile and lower daily caloric consumption when compared with patients without this mutation.
Fatores associados à subestimação materna do peso da criança: um estudo de base populacional
Authors: FREITAS Thais Parreira de Deus Araújo , SILVA Lara Livia Santos da , TELES Gabriela Silva , PEIXOTO Maria do Rosário Gondim , MENEZES Ida Helena Carvalho Francescantonio
Published: August 2015

Objetivo Investigar os fatores associados à subestimação materna do peso de crianças menores de cinco anos de Goiânia, Goiás. Métodos Estudo transversal, de base populacional, domiciliar, com 673 crianças menores de cinco anos de idade. A percepção materna do peso da criança foi obtida pela pergunta: "Atualmente, o que a senhora (mãe) acha do peso do seu filho?", e o estado nutricional da criança foi avaliado pelo índice de massa corporal por idade. Regressão múltipla de Poisson foi realizada a um nível de significância de 5%. Para a análise de concordância, foi utilizado o teste Kappa. Resultados Das crianças estudadas, 1,6% estavam magras, 87,7% eutróficas e 10,7% com excesso de peso. A maioria das mães (66,0%) identificou corretamente o peso de seus filhos; 5,2% superestimaram, e 28,8% subestimaram. Mães de crianças com excesso de peso, idade superior a 24 meses, apresentaram maior prevalência de subestimação, enquanto as mães com excesso de peso e maior escolaridade apresentaram menor subestimação do peso das crianças. A concordância entre a opinião materna sobre o peso da criança e o real estado nutricional da criança foi de 0,12 (p<0,001). CONCLUSÃO Existe uma distorção na percepção materna do peso de crianças menores de cinco anos. A subestimação materna do peso da criança apresentou associação direta com idade e estado nutricional da criança e associação inversa com escolaridade e estado nutricional materno. Sugere-se atenção no atendimento a essas mães com o objetivo de evitar o ganho de peso excessivo nessa idade e prejuízos na saúde da criança.
Evolução do quantitativo de nutricionistas na Atenção Básica do Brasil: a contribuição dos Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família e da Estratégia Saúde da Família de 2007 a 2013
Authors: VASCONCELOS Ivana Aragão Lira , SOUSA Maria Fátima de , SANTOS Leonor Maria Pacheco
Published: August 2015

Objetivo Identificar a evolução do quantitativo de nutricionistas atuantes na Atenção Básica nos municípios brasileiros, com ênfase nas Equipes de Saúde da Família e nos Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família. Métodos Estudo descritivo utilizando dados secundários do número de nutricionistas, tempo no serviço, tipo de equipe, estabelecimentos onde são cadastrados e perfil dos municípios brasileiros, solicitados pela equipe da pesquisa e fornecidos pelo Ministério da Saúde, com base no Cadastro Nacional de Estabelecimentos de Saúde no período de 2007 a 2013. Foi utilizada a estatística descritiva. Resultados O número de nutricionistas aumentou ao longo dos anos porque mais municípios brasileiros contrataram estes profissionais. O incremento foi mais acentuado (cerca de 700% entre 2008 e 2013) para os Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família, nos quais o profissional é o terceiro mais presente, após psicólogos e fisioterapeutas. Pequena parcela dos nutricionistas (6-15%) permaneceu no cargo por mais de cinco anos; o percentual variou de acordo com o ano e com o tipo de equipe. Os municípios de pequeno porte, pertencentes à região Nordeste e com Índice de Desenvolvimento Humano Municipal médio, foram os que mais contrataram profissionais nutricionistas. Por outro lado, houve um menor aumento, de 75%, no número de nutricionistas contratados para as Unidades Básicas/Centros de Saúde (excluindo os profissionais dos Núcleos e da Estratégia Saúde da Família). Conclusão Foi constatado o aumento do número de nutricionistas na Atenção Básica, bem como o aumento no número de municípios que contrataram este profissional, principalmente para os Núcleos de Apoio à Saúde da Família. A manutenção dessa taxa de aumento poderá influenciar na inversão da proporção de nutricionistas da Atenção Básica, em relação aos outros níveis de atenção à saúde, como a média e alta complexidade.
Fatores associados ao estado nutricional de crianças pré-escolares brasileiras assistidas em creches públicas: uma revisão sistemática
Authors: PEDRAZA Dixis FIGUEROA , SOUZA Maercio Mota de , ROCHA Ana Carolina Dantas
Published: August 2015

O presente artigo tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão sistemática da produção do conhecimento sobre fatores associados ao estado nutricional de crianças brasileiras assistidas em creches públicas. Foi feita busca bibliográfica nas bases MedLine, Lilacs e SciELO, e revisão dos estudos publicados até 2013. Foi utilizada a seguinte estratégia de busca: ("estado nutricional" OR "antropometria" OR "desnutrição" OR "sobrepeso") AND "creches". No caso da busca no MedLine, o descritor Brazil também foi usado. Foram selecionados 24 manuscritos. Os fatores associados à desnutrição crônica mais citados pelos autores foram a idade da criança, o peso ao nascer, o número de irmãos, a renda familiar, a escolaridade da mãe e o tempo de frequência à creche. Apresentaram-se evidências positivas sobre a relação entre frequência à creche e melhoria do estado nutricional. Apesar do número reduzido de estudos sobre o estado nutricional de crianças que frequentam creches e sua concentração geográfica, os trabalhos apresentados mostram a importância de variáveis de índole biológica (relação inversa) - como idade e peso ao nascer da criança -, e socioeconômica (relação inversa), bem como da frequência à creche (relação positiva).
History of water quality parameters – a study on the Sinos River/Brazil
Authors: Konzen GB , Figueiredo JAS , Quevedo DM
Published: August 2015

Water is increasingly becoming a valuable resource, constituting one of the central themes of environmental, economic and social discussions. The Sinos River, located in southern Brazil, is the main river from the Sinos River Basin, representing a source of drinking water supply for a highly populated region. Considering its size and importance, it becomes necessary to conduct a study to follow up the water quality of this river, which is considered by some experts as one of the most polluted rivers in Brazil. As for this study, its great importance lies in the historical analysis of indicators. In this sense, we sought to develop aspects related to the management of water resources by performing a historical analysis of the Water Quality Index (WQI) of the Sinos River, using statistical methods. With regard to the methodological procedures, it should be pointed out that this study performs a time analysis of monitoring data on parameters related to a punctual measurement that is variable in time, using statistical tools. The data used refer to analyses of the water quality of the Sinos River (WQI) from the State Environmental Protection Agency Henrique Luiz Roessler (Fundação Estadual de Proteção Ambiental Henrique Luiz Roessler, FEPAM) covering the period between 2000 and 2008, as well as to a theoretical analysis focusing on the management of water resources. The study of WQI and its parameters by statistical analysis has shown to be effective, ensuring its effectiveness as a tool for the management of water resources. The descriptive analysis of the WQI and its parameters showed that the water quality of the Sinos River is concerning low, which reaffirms that it is one of the most polluted rivers in Brazil. It should be highlighted that there was an overall difficulty in obtaining data with the appropriate periodicity, as well as a long complete series, which limited the conduction of statistical studies such as the present one.
Adenoviruses of canine and human origins in stool samples from free-living pampas foxes (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) in São Francisco de Paula, Rio dos Sinos basin
Authors: Monteiro GS , Fleck JD , Kluge M , Rech NK , Soliman MC , Staggemeier R , Rodrigues MT , Barros MP , Heinzelmann LS , Spilki FR
Published: August 2015

The spread of enteric viruses of domestic animals and human beings to wild species can be facilitated by the resistance of these viruses on the environment and their ability to be transmitted by water and contaminated food. The health status of the populations of pampas foxes (Lycalopex gymnocercus) and crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) is largely unknown and the landscapes occupied by these animals in southern Brazil have been threatened by human occupation and expansion of agriculture. In this work, the search of genomes of human and canine adenoviruses in feces from these wild carnivores was used to track the dissemination of domestic animals and human pathogens to the free-living populations in a wildlife reserve located in southern Brazil. This was performed by virus-specific differential real-time polymerase chain reactions (qPCR) on stool specimens, avoiding capture and additional stress to the animals. Genus-specific conventional reverse-transcriptase PCR (RT-PCR) was complementarily performed aiming the detection of enteroviruses (EV) and rotaviruses (RV) on these same samples. HAdV genomes were found on 14 out of the 17 (82.35%) stool samples analysed, whereas CAV was found co-infecting 5 of these samples. RV genomes were detected on 7 of the 17 samples (41.18%) and all samples were negative for EV. The results point to the dispersion of HAdV and RV at a high rate to these species of South American wild carnivores, which can be an effect of growing anthropisation of the habitat of these animals.
Games in the environmental context and their strategic use for environmental education
Authors: Branco MAA , Weyermüller AR , Müller EF , Schneider GT , Hupffer HM , Delgado J , Mossman JB , Bez MR , Mendes TG
Published: August 2015

This article aims to present the productivity of the assumptions of Philosophical Hermeneutics (Gadamer, 1996) and his discovery of the logical, ontological and structural model of the game that takes place during the experience that is the basis of comprehension. Thus, digital games are proposed as manners, methods and ways to improve the understanding, interpretation and application of the concepts of Sustainability and Environmental Principles. The attraction of the game as a pedagogic space lays in the fact that it takes over and allows the player to internalize ecological sensitivity, something that happens during the play. Finally, the results show an augment on students’ motivation, when using the game versus the traditional process.
The effects of press and pulse disturbance by long and short-term pollution on the fish community in the Sinos River, RS, Brazil
Authors: Schulz UH , Costa PF
Published: August 2015

The fish fauna of the Sinos River has been subjected to severe pollution since the 1970´s. Continuous discharges of industrial and municipal sewage cause hypoxia and often even fish kills. The objectives of the present study are to assess long-term effects of pollution on the fish community over a time scale of approximately ten years and to investigate recuperation of the fish fauna after a massive fish kill in 2006. To assess the long-term impacts, seasonal sampling was conducted from September 2007 to March 2009 in four sites which were investigated in 1998/99 with the same methodology. The effects of the fish kill were investigated by comparing the present fauna in the affected river stretch with the fauna of an unaffected adjacent river stretch. The collective community properties richness and Shannon diversity changed during the ten year interval in a consistent pattern. Richness and Shannon diversity increased significantly in all sites, abundance values, however, did not. Analysis of species constancy and cluster analysis showed that the differences between the 1998/99 and 2007/09 studies were relatively small. The comparison of the reaches affected by the 2006 fish kills showed a rapid recovery within one year. Probably the Sinos fish fauna suffered the most severe impacts in the 70s of the last century, which could not be documented by this study. After an initial decline, the community displays relatively stable patterns with a tendency of recovery. After a severe fish kill, faunal recovery was rapid, probably favoured by the proximity of unpolluted source areas and physical habitat integrity of the Sinos River.