bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy Assessment for Cad Modeling of Freeform Surface Described by Equation
Authors: Golba Grzegorz
Published: August 2015

This paper presents the results of comparative analysis of modeling accuracy the freeform surface constructed by using a variety of algorithms for surface modeling. Also determined the accuracy of mapping the theoretical freeform surface described by mathematical equation. To model surface objects used: SolidWorks 2012, CATIA v5 and Geomagic Studio 12. During the design process of CAD models were used: profile curves, fitting parametric surface and polygonal mesh. To assess the accuracy of the CAD models used Geomagic Qualify 12. On the basis of analyse defined the scope of application of each modeling techniques depending on the nature of the constructed object.
Limit sets of Teichmüller geodesics with minimal non-uniquely ergodic vertical foliation
Authors: Leininger Christopher , Lenzhen Anna , Rafi Kasra
Published: August 2015

We describe a method for constructing Teichmüller geodesics where
the vertical foliation ν is minimal but is not
uniquely ergodic and where we have a good understanding
of the behavior of the Teichmüller geodesic. The construction depends
on various parameters, and we show that
one can adjust the parameters to ensure
that the set of accumulation points of such a geodesic in the
Thurston boundary is exactly the projective 1-simplex of all projective measured
foliations that are topologically equivalent to ν. With further adjustment
of the parameters, one can further assume that the transverse measure is an ergodic measure on the non-uniquely ergodic foliation ν.
Local zero estimates and effective division in rings of algebraic power series
Authors: Rond Guillaume
Published: August 2015

We give a necessary condition for algebraicity of finite modules over the ring of formal power series. This condition is given in terms of local zero estimates. In fact, we show that this condition is also sufficient when the module is a ring with some additional properties. To prove this result we show an effective Weierstrass Division Theorem and an effective solution to the Ideal Membership Problem in rings of algebraic power series. Finally, we apply these results to prove a gap theorem for power series which are remainders of the Grauert–Hironaka–Galligo Division Theorem.
Repositioning English and multilingualism in English as a Lingua Franca
Authors: Jenkins Jennifer
Published: August 2015

In the relatively few years since empirical research into English as a Lingua Franca began being conducted more widely, the field has developed and expanded remarkably, and in myriad ways. In particular, researchers have explored ELF from the perspective of a range of linguistic levels and in an ever-increasing number of sociolinguistic contexts, as well as its synergies with the field of Intercultural Communication and its meaning for the fields of Second Language Acquisition and English as a Foreign Language. The original orientation to ELF communication focused heavily, if not exclusively, on form. In light of increasing empirical evidence, this gave way some years later to an understanding that it is the processes underlying these forms that are paramount, and hence to a focus on ELF users and ELF as social practice. It is argued in this article, however, that ELF is in need of further retheorisation in respect of its essentially multilingual nature: a nature that has always been present in ELF theory and empirical work, but which, I believe, has not so far been sufficiently foregrounded. This article therefore attempts to redress the balance by taking ELF theorisation a small step further in its evolution.
Flexary Operations
Authors: Pąk Karol
Published: August 2015

In this article we introduce necessary notation and definitions to prove the Euler’s Partition Theorem according to H.S. Wilf’s lecture notes [31]. Our aim is to create an environment which allows to formalize the theorem in a way that is as similar as possible to the original informal proof.

Euler’s Partition Theorem is listed as item #45 from the “Formalizing 100 Theorems” list maintained by Freek Wiedijk at http://www.cs.ru.nl/F.Wiedijk/100/ [30].
Groups – Additive Notation
Authors: Coghetto Roland
Published: August 2015

We translate the articles covering group theory already available in the Mizar Mathematical Library from multiplicative into additive notation. We adapt the works of Wojciech A. Trybulec [41, 42, 43] and Artur Korniłowicz [25].

In particular, these authors have defined the notions of group, abelian group, power of an element of a group, order of a group and order of an element, subgroup, coset of a subgroup, index of a subgroup, conjugation, normal subgroup, topological group, dense subset and basis of a topological group. Lagrange’s theorem and some other theorems concerning these notions [9, 24, 22] are presented.

Note that “The term ℤ-module is simply another name for an additive abelian group” [27]. We take an approach different than that used by Futa et al. [21] to use in a future article the results obtained by Artur Korniłowicz [25]. Indeed, Hölzl et al. showed that it was possible to build “a generic theory of limits based on filters” in Isabelle/HOL [23, 10]. Our goal is to define the convergence of a sequence and the convergence of a series in an abelian topological group [11] using the notion of filters.
A review on the molecular characterization of digenean parasites using molecular markers with special reference to ITS region
Authors: Choudhary K. , Verma A. Kumar , Swaroop S. , Agrawal N.
Published: August 2015

The rDNA region of eukaryotes has the immense potential to resolve the evolutionary and phylogeny problems using molecular markers. As evident from the present review, ITS region data is considered for interpretation of inter and intra-specific variations of 136 studies of 33 families including 78 genus and 114 species affecting individuals worldwide. Along with ITS-1 and ITS-2 region in 29 studies 18S region, in 38 studies 28S region and in 43 studies mitochondrial genes (COI and NDI) were also analyzed. Three new genera (Allobilharzia gen. nov., Caulanus gen. nov., and Latuterus gen. nov.) and 49 new species were discovered. Only 47 studies expressed variations at intra-specific and inter-specific level in complete ITS region, ITS-1 and ITS-2 rDNA sequences due to differences in nucleotide positions. According to the findings ITS region is more reliable and precise marker for demarcation and identification of species in combination of other DNA markers. Major studies were involved around the parasites of families Fasciolidae, Schistosomatidae, Opisthorchidae, Paragonimidae and Paramphistomidae, Clinostomidae, Diplostomidae, Haploporidae, among others infecting humans, farm animals, birds, fishes, reptiles and amphibians on the clinical basis. In future, molecular and bioinformatics aspects based on genetic variations will lead to explore the untouched areas of trematodes.
Intestinal parasitic fauna and zoonotic potentials of commonly consumed wildlife
Authors: Okoye I. C. , Ozioko K. U. , Obiezue N. R. , Ikele B. C.
Published: August 2015

A study was carried out in Nsukka cultural zone, Nigeria, with the aim of determining the prevalence, intensity and abundance of intestinal endoparasitic fauna of commonly consumed wildlife or bushmeat. From the 143 wild animals sampled, 141 (98.6 %) were found at least infected with one intestinal parasite. Ascaris lumbricoides was the overall most prevalent (48.8 %). Dicrocoelium hospes differed significantly in age-related prevalence of infection. Significant sex-related difference in infection (P<0.05) was recorded for Strongyloides papillosus, A. lumbricoides, Oesophagostomum columbianum and Moniliformis moniliformis while Taenia saginata and Entamoeba histolytica showed significant seasonal differences in intensity of infection. The results suggest that bush-meats were hosts of various parasites of medical and veterinary importance. There is need for health inspection of bush-meat for trade and consumption.
Helminths of saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica L.) in the “Askania Nova” Biosphere Reserve, Ukraine
Authors: Zvegintsova N. S. , Treus M. Yu. , Kuzmina T. A.
Published: August 2015

Analysis of the species composition and community structure of helminths in saiga antelope (Saiga tatarica) was performed using multi-year (1979-2013) data collected from the “Askania Nova” Biosphere Reserve, Ukraine. During this period, 31 saiga antelopes of different ages (7 calves, 24 adults) were examined; totally, more then 63,900 helminth specimens were collected and identified by morphological criteria. Levels of saiga infection by nematodes were from 39 to 671 EPG (207±132 SD); seasonal fluctuations in saiga infections were insignificant (Mann-Whitney test; p>0.05).

Nineteen helminth species were found in saigas in the “Askania Nova”: 3 species of Cestoda (Avitellina centripunctata, Moniezia expansa and Taenia hydatigena) and 16 species of Nematoda (Chabertia ovina, Haemonchus contortus, Marshallagia marshalli, Cooperia oncophora, Camelostrongylus mentulatus, Aonchotheca bovis, Skrjabinema ovis, Oesophagostomum venulosum, Trichostrongylus axei, T. colubriformis, T. probolorus, Ostertagia ostertagi, O. circumcincta, O. trifurcata, Nematodirus spp., Trichurus ovis). From 2 to 13 species per one host were observed. Nematodes dominated within the parasite community and composed more then 99 % of the total helminths found. Significant differences were found in helminth diversity between young and adult saigas (p<0.05). Prevalence- frequency distribution revealed multimodal structure of helminth community with dominant, subdominant, background and rare species. The highest number of helminthes (14 species and 50 % of the total amount) inhabited the small intestine; 11 species (45 %) were found in the abomasum and 9 species (5 %) in the large intestine. The Bray-Curtis cluster analysis revealed significant differences within the helminth communities in saigas from the “Askania Nova” Biosphere Reserve and saigas from Kazakhstan, Dagestan and Kalmykia.
Different changes of soil nematode communities in replant and continuous-planting peach orchards and their indicative value for peach replant problem
Authors: Li X. Y. , Liu Q. Z. , Wang Y. Z. , Sun H. Y. , Bai C. Q. , Lewis E. E.
Published: August 2015

Long-term changes of soil nematode diversity and distribution patterns in replant peach orchard (RPO) and continuous-planting peach orchard (CPPO) were assessed to evaluate different effects on nematode community and function by RPO and CPPO, in relation to peach replant problem from the point of soil fauna. Observations were conducted on a silt loam soil, and soil sampling was performed four times through the growing season of peach trees in the period from 2006 to 2008 in Pinggu, Beijing. The result showed that RPO differed from CPPO by its higher abundance of plant feeding nematodes but lower abundance of bacterivore nematodes, as well as significantly higher values of plant parasite index but lower nematode biodiversity. Obviously, the absolute abundance of Paratylenchus in RPO was higher than that in CPPO, which could be a key factor for the peach replant problems from the part of soil nematode. Nematode function indices and weighted nematode fauna profile analysis were no significantly different in the two peach ecosystems, but they represented an indication of high disturbance, N-enriched, bacterial decomposition pathway.
Characterization of Pratylenchus crenatus and P. neglectus (Nematoda: Pratylenchidae) associated with wheat crop
Authors: Kumari S.
Published: August 2015

The distribution of Pratylenchus species associated with wheat crops was investigated in Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. In total twelve localities were sampled. The populations were identified based on morphology and morphometrics, and further characterised based on sequences of the rDNA D2/D3 region and 18S gene. Pratylenchus crenatus was present in two localities and P. neglectus in five localities. At one locality both species were detected. Sequence analysis of 18S and D2/D3 region of three populations of P. crenatus reveal no variation while five populations of P. neglectus differ by 0 to 0.14 % (18S) and 0.17 to 0.50 % (D2/D3).
The pathogenic Asian fish tapeworm, Bothriocephalus acheilognathi Yamaguti, 1934 (Cestoda) in the Red discus (Symphysodon discus)
Authors: Košuthová L. , Šmiga Ľ. , Oros M. , Barčák D. , Košuth P.
Published: August 2015

The Asian fish tapeworm, Bothriocephalus acheilognathi Yamaguti, 1934, was detected for the first time in breeding of discus fish Symphysodon discus (Perciformes, Cichlidae), a popular South American cichlid. In examined samples, the adult and juvenile cestodes of B. acheilognathi with mean intensity of infection 30 (range 19 - 47) individuals per fish were found. The infected fish displayed acute behavioral symptoms. Mortality was significant; it reached almost 80 % in youngest age categories. As treatment, praziquantel immersions in dose 2 mg per liter were well tolerated and efficacious. The risk of spreading pathogens via imported fish is actual menace for ornamental breeding fish, therefore, thorough quarantine and prophylactic measures needs to be done by all fish imports and introductions. Import and subsequent release of infected ornamental fish into freshwater ecosystems may represent serious risk for spread and establishment of the parasite in native fish species. This case study illustrates that ornamental fish play also a key role in national and international movements of parasites in freshwater habitats.
Exploring second language speakers’ linguistic identities in ELF communication: a Hong Kong study
Authors: Sung Chit Cheung Matthew
Published: August 2015

This paper reports on a qualitative inquiry that investigated a group of Hong Kong university students’ perceptions of their linguistic identities in English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) communication. The participants of the study were proficient second language (L2) speakers of English who reported to have participated in intercultural ELF communication on a regular basis. By analyzing data gathered via two rounds of in-depth interviews, the study revealed that these participants did not evaluate their “non-native” status negatively but embraced their identities as legitimate and empowered speakers of English in ELF interactions. In addition, they validated their identities as multilingual, multicompetent, and translingual speakers of English with the ability to draw upon a diverse set of multilingual resources flexibly in ELF contexts. The analysis also found that these participants’ linguistic identities were constructed and negotiated in relation to the perceived linguistic competence of other ELF speakers, especially L2 speakers of other cultural/national backgrounds. This paper sheds light on the complexity of linguistic identities in ELF contexts and contributes to the growing ELF research in the Asian context.
Influence of the nonlocal parameter on the transverse vibration of double-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: de Borbón Fernanda , Ambrosini Daniel
Published: August 2015

A high-order nonlocal continuum beam model is proposed, which can be applied to study the transverse vibrations of double-walled carbon nanotubes (DWCNTs), including those that could have initial deformations due to defects or external actions. A beam element is developed adopting Hermite cubic polynomials as shape functions, and mass and elastic stiffness matrix are presented. The influence of the nonlocal parameter on the vibrational properties of DWCNTs is studied. Using the proposed model, it was found that the nonlocal parameter has a strong influence on the natural frequencies.
Postbuckling and nonlinear free vibration of size-dependent prestressed FG nanobeams resting on elastic foundation based on nonlocal Euler-Bernoulli beam theory
Authors: Ziaee Sima
Published: August 2015

Vibrations of micro/nanobeams that are subjected to initial stresses due to mismatch between different materials or thermal stresses are important in some devices. The present study is an attempt to present nonlinear free vibration of simply supported size-dependent functionally graded (FG) nanobeams resting on elastic foundation and under precompressive axial force. It is assumed that the material properties of FG materials are graded in the thickness direction. The partial differential equation of motion, which is simplified into an ordinary differential equation using the Galerkin method, is derived based on Euler-Bernoulli beam theory, von Karman geometric nonlinearity, and Eringen’s nonlocal elasticity theory. The final ordinary differential equation is solved using the variational iteration method. The effects of geometrical parameters, small-scale parameter, elastic coefficient of foundation, precompressive axial force, and neutral axis location on dimensionless nonlinear natural frequencies are investigated. In this study, the buckling and postbuckling behavior of FG nanobeams and the effect of neutral axis location on buckling behavior are investigated as well. Results show that the effects of small scale on FG nanobeam frequencies change with the aspect ratio, the values of radius of gyration, and the values of compressive axial force. It is also found that the influence of neutral axis location on the nonlinear fundamental frequency of prestressed FG nanobeams is more than that of prestressed FG nanobeams resting on elastic foundation.
Vulvar fetal rhabdomyoma mimicking 46XX sex differentiation disorder
Authors: Martos-Moreno Gabriel Ángel , de Prada Inmaculada , Riñón Cristina , Argente Jesús
Published: August 2015

Rhabdomiomas are rare mesenchymal benign tumors of striated muscle origin. Setting aside the cardiac (most atrial) rhabdomiomas typically associated to neurocutaneous syndromes (tuberous sclerosis), extracardiac rhabdomyomas appear clinically as a subcutaneous nodule or as a submucosal polypoid lesion. Among them, three main histologic subtypes can be differentiated on the basis of the degree of tumor differentiation: 1) fetal rhabdomioma, usually diagnosed during childhood and almost exclusively located in the in the head and neck region with rare reports in other locations; 2) adult rhabdomioma; and 3) genital rhabdomioma, reported to occur in the lower genital tract of young and middle-aged women and, exceptionally, in children (5).
A short history of insecticides
Authors: Oberemok Volodymyr Volodymyrovych , Laikova Kateryna Volodymyrivna , Gninenko Yuri Ivanovich , Zaitsev Aleksei Sergeevich , Nyadar Palmah Mutah , Adeyemi Tajudeen Adesoji
Published: August 2015

This review contains a brief history of the use of insecticides. The peculiarities, main advantages, and disadvantages of some modern insecticides are described. The names of the discoverers of some of the most popular insecticide preparations on the world market, are listed. The tendencies to find new insecticides to control the quantity of phytophagous insects are discussed. Special attention is paid to the perspective of creating preparations based on nucleic acids, in particular DNA insecticides. The use of insect-specific, short single-stranded DNA fragments as DNA insecticides, is paving the way in the field of “intellectual” insecticides that “think” before they act. It is worth noting, though, that in the near future, the quantity of produced insecticides will increase due to the challenges associated with food production for a rapidly growing population. It is concluded, that an agreeable interaction of scientists and manufacturers of insecticides should lead to the selection of the most optimal solutions for insect pest control, which would be safe, affordable, and effective at the same time.
Differences between organically grown varieties of spring wheat, in response to weed competition and yield
Authors: Feledyn-Szewczyk Beata , Jończyk Krzysztof
Published: August 2015

When growing wheat, one of the non-chemical methods of weed regulation is to choose wheat varieties which have a high ability to compete with weeds. The first aim of the research was the estimation of the relationships between the morphological features and canopy parameters of six spring wheat varieties. The second aim was the estimation of the varieties’ competitive ability against weeds. The third aim was the estimation of the grain yield of the six varieties. The experiment was carried out in the 2011–2013 time period, on fields which had been organically managed since 1994. Different features affected the weed infestation levels of the spring wheat varieties. For Bombona, negative correlations between the number of weeds and the height, dry matter of wheat, and wheat density, were proved. For Brawura, Hewilla, and Żura, the height, number of tillers, and dry matter of wheat were the main factors influencing weed abundance. A strong negative correlation between the number of weeds and the dry matter of wheat was found for Parabola. Cluster analysis indicated that Bombona and Brawura were the most competitive against weeds, while Monsun and Parabola were characterized as being the least competitive against weeds. Weed number significantly affected the grain yield of spring wheat (r= −0.418). The grain yield was positively correlated with the number of tillers (r= 0.459) and ears (r= 0.355), and the height (r= 0.534) and wheat dry matter (r= 0.411). Bombona and Brawura were the lowest yielding varieties (3.03 and 3.20 t · ha−1, respectively), whereas the highest yield was achieved by Żura (3.82 t · ha−1, on average).
Advocacy in Nonprofit Organizations: A Leadership Perspective
Authors: Mason Dyana P.
Published: August 2015

The influence of nonprofit leaders in organizational advocacy strategies and outcomes has not been fully explored in the literature, despite the recognition that political or policy entrepreneurs are crucial to the American policy process. These leaders are placed squarely in the political arena with other political elites, including elected officials, and this study uses a common agency framework to describe the ways in which leaders should be expected to leverage their own personal preferences in guiding their organization’s behavior. Using data from a unique survey of nonprofit leaders in California, I measure the ways that a leader’s personal values and characteristics – specifically their political ideology on a left-right spectrum – have an effect on the organization’s advocacy efforts. Results indicate that political ideology is related to whether or not a leader identifies their group as one that engages in political or policy issues, and what types of tactics they use.
Multi-Criteria Assessment of Vegetable Production Business Alternatives
Authors: Pozderec Silvo , Bavec Martina , Rozman Črtomir , Vinčec Jožef , Pažek Karmen
Published: August 2015

Purpose: Organic and integrated production of vegetables are the two most common production systems in Slovenia. The study analyzed two production systems with different cultures as alternatives with purpose to find the most appropriate variants.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The study based on the development and integration of developed specific technological- economic simulation models for the production of vegetables (salad, growing peppers, salad cucumbers, pickling cucumbers, round and cherry tomato) in greenhouse and multi-criteria decision analysis. The methodology of the study based on the DEX methodology and the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) of organic (ECO) and integrated production (IP) in greenhouse.

Results: The evaluation results show that both cultivation methods of commercially attractive vegetables in greenhouse are variable. In the case of integrated production, the assessment of multi-criteria decision analysis EC and DEXi showed that salad (Donertie F1) proved to be the best possible alternative. In the case of organic production, the multi-criteria analysis assessment of pickling cucumbers (Harmony F1) is the best possible business alternative.

Conclusion: For the further production planning process by decision maker is the ranking with Expert Choice (EC) more useful and precise, while the DEX evaluations are more descriptive.
Lead in soils and pine tree bark (Pinus sylvestris L.) from park area exposed to automotive contamination / Ołów w glebach i korze sosny (Pinus sylvestris L.) z obszaru parkowego, narażonego na zanieczyszczenia motoryzacyjne
Authors: Jaworska Hanna , Dąbkowska-Naskręt Halina , Różański Szymon
Published: August 2015

The primary source of soils and plants contamination with heavy metals is rapidly growing traffic. One of the places exposed to harmful effect of vehicle exhaust is Leśny Park Kultury and Wypoczynku in Myślęcinek (LPKiW) near Bydgoszcz. Along LPKiW goes a communication road, which may be the source of environment contamination with heavy metals. The main threat for arable areas and forests is lead (Pb), originating from tetraethyl lead, used until recently as an additive in gasoline.

The aim of the conducted research was to determine the influence of traffic on the content of lead in soils and pine trees bark on the area of LPKiW located in the close vicinity of a busy traffic route. The research material was collected along the outlet route to A1 highway in the distance of 50 - 75 m from the edge of the road, from 13 representative research points. The content of lead in the research material was determined using ASA method after the mineralization of samples with microwave technique. In surface horizons of the investigated soils the total contents of Pb ranged from 11.71 to 40.58 mg·kg-1, and in subsurface horizons ranged from 8.61 to 9.41 mg·kg-1. The characteristic feature of the investigated soils is the higher accumulation of Pb in surface horizons, which is associated with its absorption by organic matter and clay minerals. The obtained results and literature data as compared with Pb content in reference samples show the influence of vehicles emissions on the Pb content
Adaptation to climate change as a task for local authorities / Adaptacja do zmian klimatu jako zadanie władz lokalnych
Authors: Głogowska Magdalena , Pawlak Jolanta
Published: August 2015

International and national documents related to climate change and restriction of its effects emphasize the significant role of local authorities in adaptation to climate change. New tasks resulting from the necessity to adapt to climate change rest with a commune as the basic unit of local authority and a government community, which is an organized territorial system implementing particular tasks, having its own structure and applying appropriate procedures. This paper is focused on presenting and discussing the statutory tasks of communes with regard to adaptation to climate change, identified within the frame of the KLIMADA research project “Elaborating and implementation of a strategic plan of adaptation for sectors and areas sensitive to climate change
Effect of chemical treatment on thermal properties of bagasse fiber-reinforced epoxy composite
Authors: Mittal Varun , Sinha Shishir
Published: August 2015

The present paper deals with a study of the thermal properties of bagasse fiber (BF)-reinforced epoxy composites. BFs are subjected to untreated and chemical treatments with 1% sodium hydroxide followed by 1% acrylic acid at ambient temperature before the composites are made. The thermal stability of the components was studied by thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry, as well as by differential thermal gravimetric analysis. Thermal analysis results of untreated BF-reinforced epoxy composite were compared with treated BF-reinforced epoxy composite. The chemical treatment of BF induces reasonable changes in the thermal stability of the polymer composites.
An attempt of using soil grain size in calculating the capacity of water unavailable to plants / Próba wykorzystania uziarnienia gleby do obliczania zawartości wody niedostępnej dla roślin
Authors: Brogowski Zygmunt , Kwasowski Wojciech
Published: August 2015

The aim of this research was to finding methods of calculating the content of water unavailable to plants in the total soil mass based on the water properties of particular grain sizes. Fractions <0.02 mm bind from 90.1 to 98.8% of total water unavailable to plants in soils, and the clay fraction (<0.002 mm) alone binds from 52.1 to 80.1% of this water. Binding water in fractions <0.02 mm significantly depends on the mineralogical composition of fractions. The presence of illite, chlorite or kaolinite causes a decrease of capacity of water unavailable to plants by even 40% in relation to fractions composed of smectites, vermiculites, and humus. Due to high variability of the capacity of water unavailable to plants in particular grain size fractions <0.02 mm resulting from the variable mineralogical composition of this fraction, coefficients allowing to calculate the capacity of water unavailable to plants in soil microcapillaries below 0.2 μm show very high oscillation and could not be applicable.
Analysis and Interpretation of the HLA DQα “1.1 Weak-Signal” Observed During the PCR-Based Typing Method
Authors: Crouse CA , Vincek V , Caraballo BK
Published: August 2015

The Perkin-Elmer (PE) AmpliType DQα Forensic Kit is currently available for amplification and typing of a polymorphic region in the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) DQα DNA sequence. Following amplification of the DQα region with the PE kit, typing strips are processed. These strips contain immobilized DNA probes designed to distinguish six possible HLA DQα alleles. It has been observed in this laboratory and others that in a single source DNA sample, it is possible to detect a weak signal on the 1.1 specific allele dot when the samples' genotype clearly does not contain the 1.1 allele. It has been suggested that a potential source of this weak-signal is the non-specific amplification of a HLA DXα gene sequence. To demonstrate the relationship of the DXα gene to the 1.1 non-specific signal, we designed biotinylated DXα PCR primers specific for a 178 bp region in which the amplified product spans the homologous DQα region encompassing the DNA probes present on the typing strips. DXα DNA sequences from various DQα genotypes were amplified and hybridized to DQα typing strips. We have demonstrated that DXα PCR products do not always hybridize to the 1.1 probe on the typing strips. Sequence analysis of DXα PCR products show that this region is polymorphic which may explain why the occurrence of the “1.1 weak-signal” is unpredictable. We have further analyzed the effect of DNA template concentration for the DQα amplification protocol and have shown that regulation of PCR input DNA optimizes the amplification and typing protocols for HLA DQα alleles and minimizes the potential observation of the “1.1 weak-signal.”
Assessment of PCR of the D17S30 Locus for Forensic Identification
Authors: Ivey JN , Atchison BA , Georgalis AM
Published: August 2015

PCR analysis of the VNTR locus D17S30 was assessed for its potential use in forensic identification analysis. “Allelic drop-out,” the inefficient amplification of some alleles, complicates the interpretation of DNA typing at this locus.

PCR conditions were varied in an effort to improve amplification of the alleles at this locus. Such changes included the use of denaturants, formamide and DMSO, to overcome any incomplete denaturation of template strands due to GC content or allele size. Lowering the annealing temperature during the PCR cycle enhanced the amplification of a larger fragment, but this was not related to the D17S30 locus. It appears that the structure of the genome of some individuals rendered PCR amplification inefficient at this locus.
Likelihood Ratios for Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Typing in Criminal Cases
Authors: Jarjoura D , Jamison J , Androulakakis S
Published: August 2015

The likelihood ratio approach for DNA typing in criminal cases is described. It is shown how this approach uses both the sizes and pattern of discrepancies between the crime scene profile of fragment lengths and the suspect profile for quantifying the strength of the evidence. In contrast to the current match-binning approach, it avoids an initial decision about whether the two profiles match. Likelihood ratios for pairs of profiles that meet the published statistical criteria for a match show a wide range of values including some that indicate the evidence is strongly against identity.
The Determination of Anabolic Steroids by MECC, Gradient HPLC, and Capillary GC
Authors: Lurie IS , Sperling AR , Meyers RP
Published: August 2015

Methodologies are presented for the qualitative and quantitative determinations of anabolic steroids in forensic exhibits using micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MECC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and capillary gas chromatography (GC). Analyses of representative pharmaceutical dosage forms (including a commercial aqueous suspension, a commercial tablet, several commercial oil samples and various simulated dosage units) were performed using a simple, one step quantitative extraction procedure with methanol. Good agreement was obtained between all three techniques. Retention, migration and linearity data are presented and compared for over twenty anabolic steroids commonly encountered in forensic exhibits. A principal component analysis study confirmed the orthogonality of the three techniques.
Interpretation of Fatal, Multiple, and Exiting Gunshot Wounds by Trauma Specialists
Authors: Collins KA , Lantz PE
Published: August 2015

Firearm-related injuries are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States. Trauma care centers and trauma specialists (emergency medicine, trauma surgery, and neurosurgery) provide emergency care for those injured and mortally wounded from firearms. Consequently, trauma specialists may be asked to address forensic questions regarding gunshot wounds. Many firearm-related injuries are nonfatal and ultimately, fatal gunshot wounds can suffer from surgical alteration or, if the time interval between injury and death is prolonged, considerable healing of entrance and exit wounds may occur. Thus, accurate initial evaluation of firearm-related injuries is essential. We reviewed all firearm-related fatalities at our institution over the last five and a half years. Our objective was to determine how accurately trauma specialists can differentiate entrance and exit wounds in fatal perforating (exiting) gunshot wounds and determine the number of penetrating or perforating projectiles in fatal multiple gunshot wounds. A total of 271 fatal gunshot wound deaths were reviewed. Of these, we excluded all fatal penetrating (nonexiting) single gunshot wounds and fatalities not evaluated by trauma specialists. Postmortem findings were compared with the medical records from those individuals seen in the emergency department and/or admitted to North Carolina Baptist Hospital (Level I trauma center). Forty six cases with fatal multiple or exiting gunshot wounds were identified. Twenty four (52.2%) were misinterpreted by trauma specialists. Errors included inaccurate determination of the total number of multiple penetrating and/or perforating gunshot wounds and erroneous identification of entrance and exit wounds. Of the exiting, single gunshot wounds 37% were misclassified and 73.6% of multiple gunshot wounds were interpreted incorrectly. This study emphasizes the need for trauma specialists to be cognizant of the potential for misinterpretation when multiple and exiting gunshot wounds are encountered and realize the medicolegal implications.
Disinterment from Paving Materials: Use of Heavy Equipment for Exhumation and Examination of Bodies
Authors: Hawley DA , Harruff RC , Pless JE , Clark MA
Published: August 2015

Common paving materials—concrete and asphalt—pose an unusual and complex barrier to disinterment and examination of human remains. Although not commonly encountered, these materials are seen with sufficient frequency to justify consideration of the procedures and equipment necessary for disinterment. Over a seven year period we have encountered paving materials seven times. In each of these cases, the material was slightly different in quality, and different tools—including heavy construction equipment—were necessary. Sometimes the paving material could be managed without heavy power tools, but occasionally specialized construction tools have proven very useful.
Skull Fractures in Fatalities Due to Motor Vehicle Collisions
Authors: Shkrum MJ , Green RN , McClafferty KJ , Nowak ES
Published: August 2015

A retrospective analysis of 89 fatalities with skull fracture resulting from motor vehicle-pedestrian and various single passenger car frontal, side, rear and rollover collisions was done. Passenger compartment intrusion and occupant ejection were responsible for most, but not all, cranial fractures occurring in impacted motor vehicles. Victims of frontal collisions usually were unrestrained; however, a majority of individuals in cars hit by heavy trucks were wearing seatbelts. Vehicles involved in frontal crashes had crush profiles reflecting a barrier equivalent velocity (BEV) of at least 50 km/h (about 30/mph). In side impacts, most ejected occupants were unrestrained, whereas many of those intruded upon were belted. The minimum BEV calculated in these collisions approached 20 km/h (12 mph). The observation of a skull fracture intregrated with accident investigation (that is, determination of head contacts) was useful in the reconstruction of various collisions. Skull fracture patterns, as documented by autopsy, reflected certain kinematic trajectories described in motor vehicle-pedestrian frontal collisions.
Preliminary Observations of the Effects of Phencyclidine in Decomposing Tissues on the Development of Parasarcophaga ruficornis (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: Lee Goff M , Brown WA , Omori AI , LaPointe DA
Published: August 2015

Larvae of Parasarcophaga ruficornis (Fabricius) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) were reared on tissues from rabbits administered different dosages of phencyclidine to study the effects of this drug on the development of this insect species. The rabbits were given 3.66, 7.31, and 14.62 mg of phencyclidine via ear vein infusion. No significant differences in larval growth rate were observed among the colonies, although the duration of the non-feeding portion of the third instar was shorter for larvae fed on tissues containing the drug. Mortality during the larval stage was directly related to the dosage of phencyclidine administered, ranging from 0 in the control colony to 29.0% in the colony fed on tissues from the rabbit receiving 14.62 mg of phencyclidine. Durations of the puparial stage were longer for colonies fed on tissues containing the drug. Presence of phencyclidine was detected in larvae from all colonies fed on tissues from rabbits receiving the phencyclidine using GC/MS.
A Fentanyl Epidemic in Maryland 1992
Authors: Smialek JE , Levine B , Chin L , Wu SC , Jenkins AJ
Published: August 2015

In early 1992, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland, encountered 30 cases where fentanyl was identified in the postmortem specimens. Twenty-five of the decedents were found in Baltimore City and five were found in the surrounding counties. Four of the decedents were female and eight of the victims were white. The blood fentanyl concentrations ranged from 2.2 to 100 µg/L. Ethanol and other abused drugs were detected in 28 of these cases. The cause of death in all cases was ethanol-, drug intoxication, or both.
New Application for the Quantitation of Cocaine Base by Gas Chromatography
Authors: Krueger ST
Published: August 2015

The analysis of cocaine base is a major part of the forensic drug chemist's workload. Simplifying quantitative methodology can assist the drug chemist. Methods currently employed for quantitation of cocaine base utilize either an internal standard or a direct comparison. This gas chromatographic method for the quantitation of cocaine base employs a non-controlled reference standard and linear transformations. As a result, cocaine base can be quantitated by a single injection of a solution containing the analyte and a non-controlled reference standard of known concentration. Use of this methodology would minimize time expenditures, lower exposure to hazardous solvents and reduce expense of procuring diffcult-to-obtain controlled reference standards while limiting detector response variations that can occur with multiple injections.
Detection of Trace Levels of Gasoline in Arson Cases by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry with an Automatic On-Line Thermal Desorber
Authors: Kärkkäinen M , Seppälä I , Himberg K
Published: August 2015

A method for the analysis of trace levels of gasoline in arson debris using an automatic thermal desorber (TD) and commercial Tenax adsorbent tubes is described. First, a static headspace screening test is performed by gas chromatography using a flame ionization detector (GC-FID). Suspected gasoline is reanalyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Gasoline traces smaller than 10 μL in a 1 liter volume are analyzed by a dynamic heated headspace procedure with thermal desorption and GC-MS after adsorption on 45 mg Tenax tubes. The desorption of adsorbed vapors is carried out by heating the tubes; the analytes are focused in cryogenic units cooled with liquid nitrogen. The cryofocused vapor sample is flash-heated for injection into the capillary column of the GC. The dynamic heated headspace technique (TD-GC-MS) is suitable for analyses of trace amounts of gasoline (0.1–10 µL in 1 liter volume).
Extraction and Analysis of Low Molecular Weight Alcohols and Acetone from Fire Debris Using Passive Headspace Concentration
Authors: Phelps JL , Chasteen CE , Render MM
Published: August 2015

Passive headspace concentration was utilized for recovering methanol, ethanol, isopropanol and acetone from materials commonly found in fire debris. Gas Chromatography/Flame Ionization Detection was used for screening the extracts, followed by Gas Chromatography/Ion Trap Detection to confirm the presence of an alcohol or acetone with mass spectra.
The Routine Analysis of Breast Milk for Drugs of Abuse in a Clinical Toxicology Laboratory
Authors: Dickson PH , Lind A , Studts P , Nipper HC , Makoid M , Therkildsen D
Published: August 2015

Drug screening of breast milk in a clinical toxicology laboratory is reported. Findings from three cases include cocaine, ethylbenzoylecgonine (cocaethylene), ethanol, oxycodone, codeine, and nicotine. We believe this to be the first report of ethylbenzoylecgonine in human breast milk. One other specimen submitted for analysis was screened with negative results. Screening and confirmation procedures adapted for use with breast milk are described. Finally, the potential for cocaine intoxication from mother to baby is discussed. Estimates of infant blood cocaine concentration are given which may increase awareness of the need to monitor milk and blood cocaine concentrations in the infant when the situation warrants.
Platen Information Revealed: A Technique for Locating Latent Text on Typewriter (or Printer) Platens
Authors: Sperry GR
Published: August 2015

The implementation of a technique, utilizing an arc lamp and filters, designed to reveal latent text impressions on typewriter and printer platens. This technique allows for the location and decipherment of text on platens which are undetectable utilizing conventional sources (for example, side light techniques, VSC-1, etc.).
Sex Offender Case Study: The Truth?
Authors: Dwyer SM , Bockting WO , Robinson B , Miner MH
Published: August 2015

At a prominent university clinic that has treated sex offenders for 15 years, an offender and his wife appeared for therapy and faked engagement in treatment for two years. Details given in this case study serve as an extreme example of the manipulation, collusion, and deception that often occurs in sex offender treatment programs. This case study gives cause to reflect on the individual's denial system, society's criminal justice system, and the difficulty for therapists in ascertaining the truth.

The purpose of this paper is to report our experience with a patient who may have simulated pedophilic symptoms.
Artefact in Forensic Medicine: Postmortem Rodent Activity
Authors: Patel F
Published: August 2015

The human body may be attacked by a variety of animals. It is a potential source of confounding marks for forensic practitioners when unmasking criminal activity. A case that posed some problems for the crime scene investigators on discovering a dead body indoors, which had both ears missing is discussed. The suspicion initially was that of homicidal mutilation of the corpse. A general awareness of artefactual postmortem animal activity may avoid their misinterpretation. This short report acknowledges a persistent paucity in the forensic literature on the subject of human remains and postmortem animal activity.
Ethyl Chloride: Possible Misidentification as Ethanol
Authors: Laferty PI
Published: August 2015

Ethyl chloride, in a blood sample, was identified as ethanol on three out of six occasions using headspace gas chromatography. The peak matching tolerance (PMT) for ethanol was set at approximately 0.500 min ±0.0225 min. Three test results fell within the PMT for ethanol. The retention time (RT) for these test results was 0.44 min, and the relative retention time (RRT) was 0.478 min. Three test results, however, fell outside the PMT for ethanol. Two had RTs of 0.48 min and RRTs of 0.523 min, and one had a RT of 0.44 min and a RRT of 0.476 min. To prevent ethyl chloride from being identified as ethanol, the PMT was changed to approximately 0.500 min ±0.012 min.

Mixture samples containing deionized water, ethyl chloride and ethanol were tested with the new PMT. Ethyl chloride and ethanol coeluted, forming one peak that was identified as ethanol. The peak areas of the two compounds in mixture were additive and gave falsely elevated ethanol results. The RT of the samples was 0.45 min and the RRT was 0.492 min ±0.005 min. Carrier gas flow rate was decreased, lengthening the RTs and RRTs, but this failed to separate the two compounds.
Death Following Colchicine Poisoning
Authors: McIntyre IM , Ruszkiewicz AR , Crump K , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

A 45-year-old male was admitted to hospital after 2 to 3 days of vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea following an apparent overdose of colchicine tablets. During hospitalization his white blood cell count fell dramatically. At death, 33 h following initial hospitalization, pleural effusion with bilateral bronchopneumonia was evident, together with numerous bacterial colonies and marked hypocellularity of bone marrow and reduced megakaryocytes, erythroid, and myeloid cells. The most striking histological findings were numerous metaphasic mitotic figures in gastric and small bowel epithelia. Colchicine was detected, confirmed by high pressure liquid chromatography with photodiode array detection, and quantitated in antemortem plasma collected 3.3 h following hospitalization and in postmortem blood and bile. Colchicine was not detected in liver, vitreous humor, or stomach contents.