bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Antibodies to Products of Proinsulin Processing Using Immunofluorescence Staining of Pancreas in Multiple Species
Authors: Asadi Ali , Bruin Jennifer E. , Kieffer Timothy J.
Published: July 2015

The efficient processing of proinsulin into mature insulin and C-peptide is often compromised under conditions of beta cell stress, including diabetes. Impaired proinsulin processing has been challenging to examine by immunofluorescence staining in pancreas tissue because the characterization of antibodies specific for proinsulin, proinsulin intermediates, processed insulin and C-peptide has been limited. This study aimed to identify and characterize antibodies that can be used to detect products of proinsulin processing by immunofluorescence staining in pancreata from different species (mice, rats, dog, pig and human). We took advantage of several knockout mouse lines that lack either an enzyme involved in proinsulin processing or an insulin gene. Briefly, we report antibodies that are specific for several proinsulin processing products, including: a) insulin or proinsulin that has been appropriately processed at the B-C junction; b) proinsulin with a non-processed B-C junction; c) proinsulin with a non-processed A-C junction; d) rodent-specific C-peptide 1; e) rodent-specific C-peptide 2; and f) human-specific C-peptide or proinsulin. In addition, we also describe two ‘pan-insulin’ antibodies that react with all forms of insulin and proinsulin intermediates, regardless of the species. These antibodies are valuable tools for studying proinsulin processing by immunofluorescence staining and distinguishing between proinsulin products in different species.
Hyaluronan
Authors: Hull Rebecca L. , Bogdani Marika , Nagy Nadine , Johnson Pamela Y. , Wight Thomas N.
Published: July 2015

Hyaluronan (HA) is an extracellular matrix (ECM) component that is present in mouse and human islet ECM. HA is localized in peri-islet and intra-islet regions adjacent to microvessels. HA normally exists in a high molecular weight form, which is anti-inflammatory. However, under inflammatory conditions, HA is degraded into fragments that are proinflammatory. HA accumulates in islets of human subjects with recent onset type 1 diabetes (T1D), and is associated with myeloid and lymphocytic islet infiltration, suggesting a possible role for HA in insulitis. A similar accumulation of HA, in amount and location, occurs in non-obese diabetic (NOD) and DORmO mouse models of T1D. Furthermore, HA accumulates in follicular germinal centers and in T-cell areas in lymph nodes and spleen in both human and mouse models of T1D, as compared with control tissues. Whether HA accumulates in islets in type 2 diabetes (T2D) or models thereof has not been previously described. Here we show evidence that HA accumulates in a mouse model of islet amyloid deposition, a well-known component of islet pathology in T2D. In summary, islet HA accumulation is a feature of both T1D and a model of T2D, and may represent a novel inflammatory mediator of islet pathology.
Heterogeneity and Lobularity of Pancreatic Pathology in Type 1 Diabetes during the Prediabetic Phase
Authors: Rodriguez-Calvo Teresa , Suwandi Jessica S. , Amirian Natalie , Zapardiel-Gonzalo Jose , Anquetil Florence , Sabouri Somayeh , von Herrath Matthias G.
Published: July 2015

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is an autoimmune disease in which insulin-producing beta cells are destroyed in the islets of Langerhans. One of its main pathological manifestations is the hyper-expression of Major Histocompatibility Complex I (MHC-I) by beta cells, which was first described over 3 decades ago yet its cause remains unknown. It might not only be a sign of beta cell dysfunction but could also render the cells susceptible to autoimmune destruction; for example, by islet-infiltrating CD8 T cells. In this report, we studied pancreas tissue from a 22-year-old non-diabetic male cadaveric organ donor who had been at high risk of developing T1D, in which autoantibodies against GAD and IA-2 were detected. Pancreas sections were analyzed for signs of inflammation. Multiple insulin-containing islets were identified, which hyper-expressed MHC-I. However, islet density and MHC-I expression exhibited a highly lobular and heterogeneous pattern even within the same section. In addition, many islets with high expression of MHC-I presented higher levels of CD8 T cell infiltration than normal islets. These results demonstrate the heterogeneity of human pathology that occurs early during the pre-diabetic, autoantibody positive phase, and should contribute to the understanding of human T1D.
Alpha-, Delta- and PP-cells
Authors: Brereton Melissa F. , Vergari Elisa , Zhang Quan , Clark Anne
Published: July 2015

Islet non-β-cells, the α- δ- and pancreatic polypeptide cells (PP-cells), are important components of islet architecture and intercellular communication. In α-cells, glucagon is found in electron-dense granules; granule exocytosis is calcium-dependent via P/Q-type Ca2+-channels, which may be clustered at designated cell membrane sites. Somatostatin-containing δ-cells are neuron-like, creating a network for intra-islet communication. Somatostatin 1-28 and 1-14 have a short bioactive half-life, suggesting inhibitory action via paracrine signaling. PP-cells are the most infrequent islet cell type. The embryologically separate ventral pancreas anlage contains PP-rich islets that are morphologically diffuse and α-cell deficient. Tissue samples taken from the head region are unlikely to be representative of the whole pancreas. PP has anorexic effects on gastro-intestinal function and alters insulin and glucagon secretion. Islet architecture is disrupted in rodent diabetic models, diabetic primates and human Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, with an increased α-cell population and relocation of non-β-cells to central areas of the islet. In diabetes, the transdifferentiation of non-β-cells, with changes in hormone content, suggests plasticity of islet cells but cellular function may be compromised. Understanding how diabetes-related disordered islet structure influences intra-islet cellular communication could clarify how non-β-cells contribute to the control of islet function.
Determination of Optimal Sample Size for Quantification of β-Cell Area, Amyloid Area and β-Cell Apoptosis in Isolated Islets
Authors: Meier Daniel T. , Entrup Leon , Templin Andrew T. , Hogan Meghan F. , Samarasekera Thanya , Zraika Sakeneh , Boyko Edward J. , Kahn Steven E.
Published: July 2015

Culture of isolated rodent islets is widely used in diabetes research to assess different endpoints, including outcomes requiring histochemical staining. As islet yields during isolation are limited, we determined the number of islets required to obtain reliable data by histology. We found that mean values for insulin-positive β-cell area/islet area, thioflavin S-positive amyloid area/islet area and β-cell apoptosis do not vary markedly when more than 30 islets are examined. Measurement variability declines as more islets are quantified, so that the variability of the coefficient of variation (CV) in human islet amyloid polypeptide (hIAPP) transgenic islets for β-cell area/islet area, amyloid area/islet area and β-cell apoptosis are 13.20% ± 1.52%, 10.03% ± 1.76% and 6.78% ± 1.53%, respectively (non-transgenic: 7.65% ± 1.17% β-cell area/islet area and 8.93% ± 1.56% β-cell apoptosis). Increasing the number of islets beyond 30 had marginal effects on the CV. Using 30 islets, 6 hIAPP-transgenic preparations are required to detect treatment effects of 14% for β-cell area/islet area, 30% for amyloid area/islet area and 23% for β-cell apoptosis (non-transgenic: 9% for β-cell area/islet area and 45% for β-cell apoptosis). This information will be of value in the design of studies using isolated islets to examine β cells and islet amyloid.
Biodiversity And Dynamics Of Occurence Of Epigeic Groups In Different Types Of Farming
Authors: Porhajašová Jana , Noskovič Jaroslav , Rakovská Alena , Babošová Mária , Čeryová Terézia
Published: July 2015

The aim of this work was to determine and compare the occurrence of epigeic groups in two methods of farming, ecological one and integrated one. The research was conducte in the locality Nitra – Dolná Malanta in the years 2013 and 2014. The monitoring locality is situated in the south-western part of Slovakia, in altitude 175–180 m on highly productive soils. For the collection of biological material, the earth traps method was applied, used during the vegetation period (from April to October), within both farming systems, at Hordeum sativum, Triticum aestivum and Vicia faba undersowing with Medicago sativa. In canopy of these crops, two soil traps were installed, renewed in monthly intervals. The total of 7,722 exemplars of epigeic groups was obtained, of which 4,355 exemplars were in ecological farming and 3,367 exemplars in integrated farming system. In both treatments, 19 epigeic groups were determined, with dominant abundance of Coleoptera, Collembola, Acarina, Araneae. Also other groups such as Diplopoda, Heteroptera, Chilopoda etc. were observed in lower occurrence. Based on the evaluation of influence of the crop in terms of the occurrence of epigeic groups, the most suitable conditions created Vicia faba with undersowing Medicago sativa (integrated farming) and Triticum aestivum (ecological farming). On the basis of calculated indexes, both farming systems can be evaluated as homeostatically balanced, providing present epigeic groups with topical and trophic conditions.
Application of divergence entropy to characterize the structure of lipid-binding proteins
Authors: Rosicka Roksana , Banach Mateusz , Roterman-Konieczna Irena
Published: July 2015

The lipid-binding protein present in the human brain is the object of this analysis. The expression of these proteins is especially important for nervous cell differentiation and their migration in the process of the development of the brain. The “fuzzy oil drop” model applied to the analysis of these proteins may suggest the mechanism of complex generation. It is shown that this type of complex may appear spontaneously in water environment. The presence of ligand does not imply any form of adaptation of the polypeptide chain to the ligand molecule. It can be speculated that ligand binding is of a static character without the necessity for mutual structural fitting. The structures of polypeptide in the apo- and complexed forms do not differ in respect to hydrophobic core formation. Such an interpretation is different than that observed in other ligand-binding proteins where the binding cavity needs to be specially fitted to the specific ligand. It can also be concluded that the lipid-binding process is of low specificity in this case.
Latex allergy in dental care
Authors: Dermata A. , Arhakis A.
Published: July 2015

Natural rubber latex is found in numerous medical and dental products. Adverse latex reactions in dental patients and practitioners have significantly increased since the introduction of universal precautions for infection control. These reactions range from contact dermatitis to potentially life-threatening hypersensitivity. Patients with a history of spina bifida, urogenital anomalies, multiple surgical procedures, allergic reactions or atopy, health care personnel and latex production workers are at increased risk of latex allergy. Diagnosis is based on a combination of clinical history and laboratory tests. Identification of latex sources and the avoidance of latex exposure are critical for protecting both dental patients and dental personnel.
The use of tiefenfluorid for desensitization of dentinal hyperesthesia
Authors: Meto Aida , Meto Agron , Tragaj Emiljano , Lipo Monika , Bauermann Christian
Published: July 2015

The aim of this study was to provide clinical results of dentinal desensitization treatment of non-carious defects. 146 patients were treated, who were diagnosed with generalized and local hyperesthesia of the second and third level. The patients were treated with Tiefenfluorid during 2 sessions carried out in interval of 8 days. Level of hyperesthesia and success of the treatment were assessed not only according to patient's complaints but also by using the test-meter for making evaluations in mkA. The opposite tooth side of the same patient, was treated with conventional fluoride gel to serve as control side. The patients were followed up for 2 years. The cases treated with Tiefenfluorid, which included treatment of general dental hyperesthesia, localized hyperesthesia in the tooth necks, as well as treatment of cuneiform defects, resulted more successful compared to the treatment with traditional fluoride gel. The immediate response as well as the long term result was better (it was necessary to perform 10 sessions of traditional fluoride gel treatment and only 2-3 treatments with Tiefenfluorid).
Serum levels of heat shock protein-70 in patients with Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Albanidou-Farmaki E. , Andreadis D. , Poulopoulos A. , Farmakis K. , Markopoulos A.
Published: July 2015

Usually increased presence of Heat Shock Proteins (HSPs) is considered to mediate inflammation process in Oral Lichen Planus (OLP) lesions, but in contrast HSP-70 expression found to be stable or even decreased in those lesions. The purpose of this study was to detect the serum titres of the HSP-70 in patients with OLP compared to healthy individuals, which may indicate an alternative, systemic role. Serum levels of HSP- 70 were detected by sandwich-ELISA in 45 patients with reticular (n=28) and erosive (n=17) OLP, respectively. A group of 35 healthy individuals was used as control. HSP-70 was detected in significantly increased levels in OLP (p<0.05) compared to controls. The increase was prominent in reticular-OLP (p<0.05), whereas no difference was observed between serum HSP-70 in erosive OLP compared to controls. These results indicate a systemic initiation of the immune response in the pathogenesis and process of OLP. The higher titres of HSP-70 in reticular but not erosive form of OLP indicate rather an immunoregulatory role in chronicity than in the acute inflammatory process of OLP. Consequently, the evaluation of serum imbalances of HSP-70 in OLP using ELISA may be a useful marker for disease's monitoring and/or efficacy of systemic treatment.
Oral hygiene and nutrition habits of young people in Greece aged 18 to 25 and review of the literature
Authors: Chatzopoulos Georgios , Koidou Vasiliki
Published: July 2015

Purpose: The aim of this paper is to document the oral hygiene and nutrition habits of young people (aged 18 to 25) in Greece. Material and Methods: In a random sample of 100 people in Greece aged 18 to 25, a questionnaire including 23 questions (4 demographical and 19 other) was given. The frequency, the usual reason for visiting the dentist, the frequency of brushing, the type of toothbrush and the criteria for choosing toothbrush and toothpaste were searched. The nutrition habits were recorded as frequency in receiving sugar or no sugar meals during the day. The statistical analysis included frequencies and the use of chi-square test for interrelation with the demographical questions. Results: 72% of the sample visits the dentist at least once a year, while the reason for visiting was prevention in 69%. 85% brushes at least twice a day, and the same percentage uses medium hardness toothbrush. The choice of the toothpaste is based on flavour and fragrance in 25%. The frequency of receiving sugar meals was recorded as 45% once daily and 43% in 2 or 3 times daily (p<0.05 between smokers and non smokers). 78% of the young people receives less than 5 meals and snacks per day. There was no statistically significant difference between different available monthly budgets in the sample for the oral hygiene and nutrition habits. Conclusion: More than 1/3 of young people in Greece aged 18 to 25 visits the dentist at least once yearly for prevention and uses medium hardness toothbrush. The frequency of sugar consumption was significantly higher in smokers when compared to non smokers. Statistically significant differences were not observed between males and females except for the frequency in brushing (p<0.05). A review of the literature was performed for issues related to this project:.
Transdisciplinary Methodology of the Dialogue Between People, Cultures, and Spiritualities
Authors: Nicolescu Basarab
Published: July 2015

When two people try to communicate there is, inevitably, confrontation: representation against representation, subconscious against subconscious. As this confrontation is subconscious, it often degenerates into conflict. A new model of civilisation is necessary, whose keystone is the dialogue between human beings, nations, cultures and religions for the survival of humanity. Inthe formation of a new model of civilization, the methodology of transdisciplinarity is crucial.
Ştefan Aug. Doinaş and Basarab Nicolescu, Epistolary Exchange and Aesthetic Transfiguration of Certain Transdisciplinary Concepts
Authors: Chețan Maria
Published: July 2015

Ştefan Aug. Doinaş and Basarab Nicolescu, two great spirits related through the generosity of the humanist vision, met, held an epistolary dialogue and had common projects. Doinaş commented upon a few of the innovative concepts proposed by Basarab Nicolescu and he also aesthetically transfigured, in literary pages, certain concepts of transdisciplinarity.
Assessment of Kwara State Social Studies Teachers of the Adequacy of Upper Basic Social Studies Curriculum Content for Sustainable Development in Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf A. , Daramola D.S. , Bello M.B. , Obafemi K.E.
Published: July 2015

The purpose of the study was to find out the adequacy of upper basic Social Studies curriculum content for sustainable development in Nigeria as assessed by Social Studies teachers. 306 Social Studies teachers (109 male and 197 female teachers) from 341 upper basic schools in Kwara State participated in the study. A researcher-designed questionnaire was used to collect data that were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square. The results showed that the content of upper basic Social Studies was not adequate, as assessed by teachers. It was also revealed that teachers’ assessment was significantly influenced by teaching experience, qualification and school type. However, the research showed that gender did not significantly influence Social Studies teachers’ assessment. Based on the findings, it was suggested that upper basic Social Studies curriculum should be reviewed and taught so as to ensure sustainable development in Nigeria.
Determination of rheological behaviour of wine lees
Authors: Lachman Jaromír , Rutkowski Kazimierz , Trávníček Petr , Vítěz Tomáš , Burg Patrik , Turan Jan , Junga Petr , Višacki Vladimir
Published: July 2015

This study deals with the rheological properties of wine lees. Samples of wine lees of the Saint Laurent variety were used in this experiment. The investigated wine lees arose in the process of production red grape wine in 2013 (Czech Republic). At first, the chemical background was determined. The chemical background includes the following chemical parameters: total acidity, pH, alcohol content, reduced sugars, free SO2, total SO2, and volatile acid. In the second phase of the study, physical properties were determined. Specifically, a sample of wine lees was subjected to rheological tests. These tests consisted in determination of dependence of dynamic viscosity on the temperature, hysteresis loop tests, dependence of dynamic viscosity on the time and step-down in the shear rate test. The experiment demonstrated that the dynamic viscosity increased with increased temperature – this phenomenon is caused by thermolabile proteins – and the wine lees has rheopectic behaviour; the degree of rheopexy was found to rise with the increasing temperature.
Effect of tannery wastes and biochar on soil chemical and physicochemical properties and growth traits of radish
Authors: Nabavinia Fereshteh , Emami Hojat , Astaraee Alireza , Lakzian Amir
Published: July 2015

Tannery wastes can be used in soil as organic manure. The aim of this research was to study the effects of tannery wastes (before a chromium addition step) and biochar on soil chemical and physicochemical properties and radish yield. Treatments included three levels of tannery waste (0, 2.5, and 5%) and two levels of biochar (0 and 2.5 t ha−1) in a completely randomized design (factorial) with three replications. The treated pots were kept under field capacity condition for three months; thereafter, five radish seeds were sown at 1 cm depth in soil of each pot. The results showed that tannery wastes and biochar treatments resulted in an increase in soil nitrogen and phosphorus contents and their concentrations in radish root and above ground biomass, but electrical conductivity of soil was decreased and had no effect on soil potassium content. The tannery waste treatment increased soil pH after plant harvest. It also significantly increased radish fresh and dry matter weight, but the biochar treatment yielded a slight increase. It is concluded that application of tannery wastes and biochar may be useful due to their high nutrient contents in soils lacking organic carbon under arid and semi-arid regions, thereby improving growth and increasing plant yield.
Species specific effect of nest-box cleaning on settlement selection decisions in an artificial colony system
Authors: Fehérvári Péter , Piross Imre Sándor , Kotymán László , Solt Szabolcs , Horváth Éva , Palatitz Péter
Published: July 2015

Selecting a suitable breeding habitats and a nest-site within are crucial decisions birds have to make. Free ranging solitary Kestrels may use public information derived from leftover pellets and prey remnants from previous conspecific breeding attempts to assess location quality. However, this information may also indicate potentially higher nestling ectoparasite load. In colonies where habitat quality is similar for all available nests, the only information of previous nest usage may reflect expected future parasite pressure. In this study we explored whether Kestrels, Red-footed Falcons and Jackdaws rely on nest-material consisting of pellets and prey remnants when choosing a nest in a multi species artificial colony system. We also assessed potential effects of these decisions on reproductive success. We randomly selected and cleaned half (n=102) of all available nest-boxes in each of the studied 4 colonies before the breeding season. We then monitored occupancy, egg-laying date, hatching and fledging success. In case of Red-footed Falcons, we also acquired adult age and nestling condition data. Our results show that Kestrels were more likely to breed in uncleaned nest-boxes, however, eggs laid in cleaned nest-boxes were more likely to develop into fledged nestlings. There was a weak indication that lower hatching rate was responsible for this effect, rather than increased parasite load. Nest box cleaning had no effect on measured variables in case of Red-footed Falcons and Jackdaws. Colonial breeding of Kestrels, the only species to react to nest-box cleaning, is rare and is probably a consequence of extreme nest-site shortage in our study site. We conclude that Kestrels are not adapted to interpret the information carried by pellets and prey-remnants in colony nest-boxes.
Research Approaches in the Study of Religion
Authors: Szocik Konrad
Published: July 2015

Despite development of secular ideas and concepts in the Western world, we can observe increasing interest in the study of religion. However, this popularity of the study of religion and different research approaches has caused that in some sense scholars that were studying religion came to a dead point. Here I show that the most optimal research approach in the study of religion is pluralistic, integral paradigm which connects old traditional methods with naturalistic, cognitive and sometimes experimental approach.
Thinking Through Tools: What Can Tool-Use Tell Us About Distributed Cognition?
Authors: Baber Chris
Published: July 2015

In this paper, I question the notion that tool-use must be driven by an internal representation which specifies the “motor program” enacted in the behaviour of the tool-user. Rather, it makes more sense to define tool-use in terms of characteristics of the dynamics of this behaviour. As the behaviour needs to be adjusted to suit changes in context, so there is unlikely to be a one-to-one, linear mapping between an action and its effect. Thus, tool-use can best be described using concepts from Nonlinear Dynamics. Such an approach can be used to create a sort of cybernetic model of tool-use. However, there is a danger that such a model can either lead us back to internal representations (in that the comparator used to evaluate feedback during behaviour could be assumed to be pre-defined) or could fail to capture cognitive aspects of behaviour. In particular, the question of how the craftworker’s intent can be enacted in the use of tools to produce a specific object seems to be lost in the cybernetic account. My solution is two-fold. First, the “model” is created on-the-fly and adapted through moment-by-moment interactions in the system of tool-user–tool–material–environment. This means that, rather than assuming a pre-defined internal representation that drives behaviour, I propose that cognition involves the selection of salient parameters that characterize the behaviour and the continued monitoring and management of behaviour in terms of these parameters. Second, intent is only loosely defined a priori but crystallizes through the continued interactions between craftworker and object through a process in which the affordances of the object become apparent to, and responded to by, the craftworker.
Interactivity And Mental Arithmetic: Coupling Mind And World Transforms And Enhances Performance
Authors: Guthrie Lisa G. , Vallée-Tourangeau Frédéric
Published: July 2015

Interactivity has been linked to better performance in problem solving, due in part to a more efficient allocation of attentional resources, a better distribution of cognitive load, but perhaps more important by enabling the reasoner to shape and reshape the physical problem presentation to promote the development of the problem solution. Interactivity in solving quotidian arithmetic problems involves gestures, pointing, and the recruitment of artefacts to facilitate computation and augment efficiency. In the experiment reported here, different types of interactivity were examined with a series of mental arithmetic problems. Using a repeated-measures design, participants solved series of five 11-digit sums in four conditions that varied in the type of interactivity: (i) no interactivity (participants solved the problems with their hands on the table top), (ii) pointing (participants could point at the numbers), (iii) pen and paper (participants could note interim totals with a pen), and (iv) tokens (the sums were presented as 11 numbered tokens the arrangement of which participants were free to modify as they proceeded to the solution). Performance in the four conditions was measured in terms of accuracy, calculation error, and efficiency (a ratio composed of the proportion correct over the proportion of time invested in working on the sums). These quantitative analyses were supplemented by a detailed qualitative examination of a participant’s actions in the different conditions. The integration of artefacts, such as tokens or a pen, offered reasoners the opportunity to reconfigure the physical presentation of the problem, enacting different arithmetic strategies: the affordance landscape shifts as the problem trajectory is enacted through interactivity, and this generally produced better “mental” arithmetic performance. Participants also felt more positive about and better engaged with the task when they could reconfigure the problem presentation through interactivity. These findings underscore the importance of engineering task environments in the laboratory that offer a window on how problem solving unfolds through a coalition of mental and physical resources.
Affectivity And Time: Towards A Phenomenology Of Embodied Time-Consciousness
Authors: Pokropski Marek
Published: July 2015

In the article, I develop some ideas introduced by Edmund Husserl concerning time-consciousness and embodiment. However, I do not discuss the Husserlian account of consciousness of time in its full scope. I focus on the main ideas of the phenomenology of time and the problem of bodily sensations and their role in the constitution of consciousness of time. I argue that time-consciousness is primarily constituted in the dynamic experience of bodily feelings.

In the first part, I outline the main ideas of Husserl’s early phenomenology of consciousness of time. In the second part, I introduce the phenomenological account of bodily feelings and describe how it evolved in Husserl’s philosophy. Next, I discuss the idea of bodily self-affection and the affective-kinaesthetic origin of consciousness’ temporal flow. In order to better understand this “pre-phenomenal temporality”, I analyse the dynamics of non-intentional, prereflective bodily self-affection. In the third part, I try to complement Husserl’s account by describing the specific dynamics of bodily experience. In order to do so, I appeal to Daniel Stern’s psychological account of dynamic bodily experience, which he calls the “vitality affect”. I argue that the best way to understand the pre-phenomenal dynamics of bodily feelings is in terms of the notion of rhythm.
Sudden Infant Death: Chemical Analysis of Vitreous Humor
Authors: Sturner WQ , Dempsey JL
Published: July 2015

The syndrome of sudden and unexpected infant death ("crib death") has long been the subject of investigation. Most reports indicate that a cause of death can be demonstrated at autopsy in one-half to two-thirds of the cases. New diagnostic approaches have been attempted for the remainder; but microbiologic, hematologic, toxicologic, and other studies have been helpful in only a few instances.
Liquid Chromatographic Determination of Morphine in Opium
Authors: Wittwer JD
Published: July 2015

Opium is obtained from the unripe seed capsules of the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum. It contains 25 to 30 alkaloids. Commercially, morphine, narcotine (noscapine), papaverine, thebaine, codeine, and narceine are considered the most important of these alkaloids.
Identification of Electric Blasting Caps by Manufacturer
Authors: Townshend DG
Published: July 2015

With the ever increasing number of bombings occurring in the United States each year, it is imperative for bomb scene technicians to be acquainted with the classification by manufacturer of electric blasting caps and blasting cap components discovered at the scene of a bombing.
Identifying the Copying Machine Used in Preparation of Simulated Forgeries
Authors: Kelly JH
Published: July 2015

The proliferation of rapid office copiers has in recent years provided a new problem for Document Examiners. Not only is it possible to determine which of many processes was used to prepare a given copy, in many cases an individual machine can be identified as the one on which the copy was made. One of the more common types of office copiers, the xerograph machine, lends itself to these sorts of identification quite well. To establish that a copy was in fact made on a particular copying machine requires full analysis of the copy and the machine.
Ink Differentiation with Infrared Techniques
Authors: Chowdhry R , Gupta SK , Bami HL
Published: July 2015

There are often questioned document problems in which alterations, additions, and obliterations have been made by visually similar inks. Such cases of forgery have been found in checks, passports, birth certificates, receipts, currency notes, lottery tickets, account books, etc. In the examination of such documents, an expert is often not interested in the complete composition of the inks involved, but is basically concerned with discriminating between these inks which are visually similar but chemically different in composition. He is thus interested in comparative study of the properties of various inks at large. A chemical analyst provided with a bottle of ink can determine the complete composition of an ink by several physico-chemical methods, but examination of ink on paper presents a much more complex and difficult problem [1,2]. For instance, about ninety-eight percent of the ink evaporates on writing and the residue is an extremely small quantity covering a very large surface. Ink writings, therefore, are either tested on paper or physically removed by special techniques [1,3]. This approach, apart from other basic handicaps, results in physical damage to the document in varying degrees depending upon the method used. Removal of ink from the document by solvents or physical punching of paper, followed by chromatography, electrophoresis, spectrophotometry, etc. are some of the other recent techniques which may give some specific information about composition and comparative identification [1–5]. However, these micromethods are cumbersome and require a good deal of expertise, apart from the basic disadvantage that the document is bound to be physically altered—even though to a small extent.
The Determination of Elevated Bromide Levels in Blood by Gas Chromatography
Authors: Wells J , Cimbura G
Published: July 2015

A recent paper by A. W. Archer [1] has prompted us to report our results on the gas chromatographic (GC) determination of bromide in blood.
Determination of Propoxyphene in Biological Materials
Authors: McBay AJ , Turk RF , Corbett BW , Hudson P
Published: July 2015

Propoxyphene is 4-dimethylamino-3-methyl-1, 2-diphenyl-2-butanol propionate. The dextrorotatory salt is a very popular prescription analgesic marketed as Darvon®. The levorotatory product, which is not especially popular as an antitussive, is marketed as Novrad®. Dextropropoxyphene hydrochloride is very soluble in water (2 g/ml) and is marketed in capsules by itself and together with acetylsalicylic acid, phenacetin, caffeine, and also a tranquilizer. The capsules usually contain 32 or 65 mg of dextropropoxyphene hydrochloride. Unfortunately, the ready solubility of the hydrochloride has allowed for easy abuse of this drug by injection. A capsule which contained the drug in a spherical tablet also allowed the easy separation of this drug from other ingredients. This form has been discontinued. In an effort to prevent the misuse of the drug and to increase its safety, the manufacturer has produced a water-insoluble salt (1.5 mg/ml), propoxyphene napsylate, or the 2-naphthalene sulfonate which is marketed as Darvon-N®. Because of the weight of the salt this product is supplied in 50- and 100-mg dosage forms as tablets and a suspension containing 50 mg of Darvon-N® per 5 ml. The tablets are film-coated. The insolubility of this product should restrict its abuse and might prevent deaths by allowing for a much slower absorption of the drug.
On Playing the Game of Expert Witness in a Two-Value Logic System
Authors: McCarthy JF
Published: July 2015

The public is easily enamored with beliefs in the magic of science and the finality of expert testimony of all kinds. Upon being exposed to newspaper articles, comic strips, and television presentations concerning the forensic use of radar, lie detection, chemistry, graphology, microscopy, handwriting identification, etc (all of questionable scientific value and all presented with the same rhetorical conviction), the average person tends to place them on the same plane of scientific acceptance and reliability and is apparently unable or unwilling to differentiate between these disciplines. As a result of this unfortunate situation, when expert testimony is presented the average juror expects definite responses to all questions asked of the witness. When the normal pretrial preparations have been made (actually little or none in criminal cases), the direct testimony of the witness will tend to enhance this belief on the part of jurors because, by the nature of the questions asked, all answers are geared to being definite.
Forensic Psychiatry in the Legal Defense of Murder
Authors: Tanay E
Published: July 2015

The crime of murder exists in some form in all known societies. In the disposition of those who are found guilty, the law places little reliance upon behavioral sciences. Homicide occurs for diverse reasons. The law recognizes this fact by providing several legal categories of homicide, one of which is "not guilty by virtue of insanity." The concept of insanity in determining responsibility for the crime is defined according to legal criteria. The literature on the issue of criminal responsibility is extensive, but that issue will not be the subject of this paper.
Determination of Propoxyphene in Biological Materials by Ultraviolet Spectrophotometry and Gas Chromatography
Authors: Wallace JE , Ladd SL , Blum K
Published: July 2015

Propoxyphene has received widespread utilization as an analgesic agent. Originally thought to be nontoxic, the compound in recent years has been reported as a contributing agent in numerous intoxications of which several have been lethal [1]. The compound is a tertiary amino ester, α-d-4-dimethylamino-l-2-diphenyl-3-methyl-2-butanol propionate. Of the four possible stereoisomers only the α-d form has an analgesic effect [2–4]. Since propoxyphene absorbs ultraviolet radiation in the manner characteristic of benzenoid compounds, methods which utilize ultraviolet spectra of unconverted propoxyphene have little application to the analysis of this compound in biological systems [5].
The Determination of Plasma Ethanol by Gas Liquid Chromatography using Trichloracetic Acid as the Protein Precipitant
Authors: Gupta RN , Galdenzi S , Keane PM
Published: July 2015

Gas liquid chromatography is now a common method of estimating certain volatile compounds in body fluids [1,2,3]. There is, however, no general agreement regarding sample preparation prior to injection.
A New Look at Qualifying Expert Witnesses and the Doctrine of Privilege for Forensic Scientists
Authors: Hilton O
Published: July 2015

The expert witness looks at the court system from a somewhat different point of view than judges and attorneys. He sees only a small segment of the whole so that the section in which forensic science fits takes on special importance to him. In many respects this area of the law is relatively new and contains problems which have not been fully recognized or considered by the courts.
The Specificity of the Duquenois Color Test for Marihuana and Hashish
Authors: Pitt CG , Hendron RW , Hsia RS
Published: July 2015

The Duquenois color test [1,2], coupled when possible with botanical examination [3], is regarded as one of the most reliable indications of the trace presence of cannabinoids, the physiologically active constituents of marihuana and hashish [4]. Consequently, this color test is used widely in forensic laboratories in the United States. Analysis of extracts from a substantial number of plant families has failed as yet to discover any exception to the specificity of the test [3,5]. However, it is clear that an understanding of the chemical basis of the test would allow a better appreciation of the molecular features which are necessary for a positive color test, and an increased confidence in its specificity. With this end in mind, we have studied the minimum structural features of the cannabinoid skeleton which are necessary for a positive test.
Eva Braun Hitler's Odontological Identification—A Forensic Enigma?
Authors: Sognnaes RF
Published: July 2015

Through generous cooperation by custodians of several museums, libraries, and government archive centers, the author has had occasion to explore various historical dental relics and reports covering the evolution of dental art and science over a period ranging from the time of George Washington to that of Adolf Hitler [1,2].
Stardust on the Bar: Space Fallout in Criminalistics
Authors: Pickering WH
Published: July 2015

Gravity began to slacken its hold on man fifteen years ago, when Sputnik and Explorer 1 first succeeded in loosening the Promethean bonds that had been inviolate for perhaps five billion years. In orbiting and escaping Earth, we have again demonstrated the validity of the great physical laws of Kepler, of Newton, of Einstein. And, inevitably, we have also generated much new knowledge as we have launched satellites around our planet and flown men to the Moon and instruments to Venus and Mars.
Reflections upon Case History, Diagnosis, and Therapy of a Frustrated Patient: Forensic Science
Authors: Maehly AC
Published: July 2015

I have set myself the task of critically reviewing the state of forensic science and pointing out possible remedies for some of the unsatisfactory situations prevailing. I shall refrain from further elaborating on the role played by Swedish forensic workers, merely mentioning such names as Harry Söderman, Arne Svensson, and Otto Wendel and the fact that the development of fingerprints with ninhydrin originated in Sweden.
On the Improvement of Suicide Determination
Authors: Murphy GE , Gantner GE , Wetzel RD , Katz S , Ernst MF
Published: July 2015

Simply stated, suicide is intentional self-destruction. It is tempting to think of it as a clear-cut phenomenon with discrete borders. But every medical examiner and coroner knows the problem of deciding intent when the blood alcohol level is high and the barbiturate level low. The presence of a suicide note, verified to be in the victim's handwriting, may be accepted as reliable proof of suicide. But a note is found in no more than one third of cases judged to be suicide [1,2]. The criteria employed in the remainder of cases are unstated, although physical circumstances at the scene and toxicologic findings must be assumed to carry much weight. No set of established criteria or indices exists to guide the decision.
The Role of Forensic Jurisprudence in the Judicial Process
Authors: Matte PJ
Published: July 2015

The intent of this paper is a clarification of the role of forensic jurisprudence in the judicial process. Confronted with this task, one is left feeling rather like the man who has been persuaded to wrestle with an octopus: uncertain how best to begin. The question is most relevant to lawyers already engaged in that branch of the law which deals with evidence derived from the sciences and the scientifically based arts of our technological society. It seems therefore appropriate to focus initially on the confusion of roles and terminology, and the occasional conflicts of interest which are the inevitable lot of the lawyer who calls himself a forensic jurisprudent, and whose professional concerns include the conflicts of a society in collision with its technology.
Educating the Forensic Jurisprudent
Authors: Joling RJ
Published: July 2015

Forensic Science is the study and practice of the application of science to the purposes of the law. (American Academy of Forensic Sciences)
Two Deaths Caused by a Lack of Oxygen in an Underground Chamber
Authors: Di Maio DJ , Di Maio VJM
Published: July 2015

Asphyxial deaths caused by a gross deficiency of oxygen and associated with elevated levels of carbon dioxide are relatively rare. Most such deaths are industrial accidents. The typical case occurs when an individual descends into a sewer, brewery vat, or mine that has not been ventilated for some time. In some of these cases, especially those occurring in sewers, death may be due to other gases such as methane or hydrogen sulfide. Therefore, for proper interpretation of these deaths, it is essential to specifically identify the gas or gases that caused death. Herein are presented two deaths in an underground chamber caused by a gross deficiency of oxygen and associated with an elevated concentration of carbon dioxide. Both these conditions were the direct result of primitive forms of plant life and funguslike organisms growing in the chamber, consuming the oxygen, and producing carbon dioxide.
Respirator-Induced Pneumothorax and Subcutaneous Emphysema: Experimental Overinflation of Cadaver Lungs
Authors: Lawrence RD
Published: July 2015

Resuscitation maneuvers (including positive-pressure ventilation and closed chest cardiac massage) may be complicated by the formation of pneumothorax (PT), mediastinal emphysema (ME), or subcutaneous emphysema (SCE) [1–4]. Proposed mechanisms of these untoward effects have included overinflation [2–5], violent inspiratory efforts during inflation [4], pulmonary parenchymal laceration due to rib fractures [1], and perforation of air passages during intracardiac injections [1].
Quinine Cardiotoxicity: A Mechanism for Sudden Death in Narcotic Addicts
Authors: Levine LH , Hirsch CS , White LW
Published: July 2015

Narcotic abuse has reached alarming proportions in many areas of the United States, carrying with it a pernicious morbidity and a tragic mortality. The latter is estimated to be approximately 0.7 percent of the addict population per annum. There were over 1000 such deaths annually in 1969 and 1970 in New York City alone. Eighty percent of these fatalities in New York are attributed to “immediate acute reactions” following administration (usually intravenous) of narcotics. In Dade County (Metropolitan Miami), Florida, 86 of 87 narcotic-related fatalities, excluding 13 violent deaths in the reported series, “collapsed and died following the injection of a narcotic”. The mechanisms of sudden death in this circumstance are complex and have not been elucidated completely. Several possible explanations include narcotic overdosage with respiratory depression, narcotic induced postural hypotension, hypersensitivity or anaphylactic reaction, idiosyncratic reaction to unspecified material(s), adverse response to intravenous injection of colloid or particulate material (“colloidoclastic crisis”), or adverse reactions to adulterants in narcotic packets which are purchased “on the street”.
A Review of “The Identification and Registration of Firearms”
Authors: Biasotti AA
Published: July 2015

A welcome contribution not only to the collector and persons responsible for the registration of firearms, but also to the field of firearms identification.
Identification of Phytosterols in Red Oil Extract of Cannabis
Authors: Fenselau C , Hermann G
Published: July 2015

Red oil extract of cannabis traditionally is obtained from the ethanol extractable constituents of hemp. That portion of the ethanol-extracted material which remains after steam distillation and aqueous washing is distilled under vacuum and constitutes crude red oil, an item of illegal commerce.
About the stabilization of the dendritic structure of GG brand copper powder
Authors: Reznikova O. G. , Darintseva A. B. , Murashova I. B.
Published: July 2015

In industry copper powder is recieved under constant DC. Surface roughening occurs during evolution of the dendritic particles. It is suggested to create a new impulse of current equal to the initial current density of 3200 A/m2 in order to obtain uniform structure of the precipitate. Current load was evaluated by the result of chronopotentiometry research of the dynamics of the dendritic precipitate on cylindrical electrode. Four-impulse galvanostatic electrolysis was investigated for the copper powder GG. New current impulse shifts the electrode potential to the cathodic area, crystallization process flows more rapidly.
Crystal structure and oxygen nonstoichiometry of oxides in the Ba-Me-Me’-Y-O (Me, Me’=Co, Fe) system
Authors: Urusova A. S. , Bryuzgina A. V. , Aksenova T. V. , Cherepanov V. A.
Published: July 2015

Polycrystalline BaМe1-xYxO3-δ(Me=Co, Fe) samples were synthesized by a conventional route and glycerol–nitrate technique. According XRD patterns of single phase solid solutions BaCo1-xYxO3-δ (0.1≤x≤0.4) and BaFe0.9-yY0.1CoyO3-δ(0.05≤y≤0.15) were indexed using Pm3m space group. The unit cell parameters were reﬁned using Rietveld full-proﬁle analysis. Oxygen nonstoichiometry of these solid solutions was measured by means of thermogravimetric technique within the temperature range 298–1273 K in air.