bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multicomponent gas detection technology of FDM and TDM based on photoacoustic spectroscopy
Authors: Yu Yuanfang , Tian Cunwei , Wang Zongliang , Qian Siyu , Yan Cunying , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2020

In this paper, a multicomponent gas detection system based on photoacoustic spectroscopy (PAS) is proposed with a combination of frequency division multiplexing (FDM) and time division multiplexing (TDM), combining a resonance photoacoustic cell and broadband microphone. A PAS gas cell with a wide frequency response bandwidth was used to achieve the FDM by selecting a specific modulation frequency of each component gas. The sawtooth wave driver current of each laser was output at a constant time interval for achieving the TDM. Compared with the laser channel control using a photoswitch, the driver current control was a simpler and more convenient means to implement TDM. The four gas components of methane (

C
H

4

), water (

H

2

O

) vapor, carbon dioxide (

C
O

2

), and acetylene (

C

2

H

2

) were selected as sample gases for testing the feasibility of the method. The experimental results showed that the gas detection limits of

C
H

4

,

H

2

O

vapor,

C
O

2

, and

C

2

H

2

were 75.435, 2.502, 341.960, and 4.284 ppm, respectively. In addition, the linear fittings of gas concentration were 0.99386, 0.99772, 0.98995, and 0.98955, respectively.
Technical considerations in the Verasonics research ultrasound platform for developing a photoacoustic imaging system
Authors: Kratkiewicz Karl , Manwar Rayyan , Zhou Yang , Mozaffarzadeh Moein , Avanaki Kamran
Published: December 2020

Photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is an emerging functional and molecular
imaging technology that has attracted much attention in the past
decade. Recently, many researchers have used the vantage system from
Verasonics for simultaneous ultrasound (US) and photoacoustic (PA)
imaging. This was the motivation to write on the details of US/PA
imaging system implementation and characterization using Verasonics
platform. We have discussed the experimental considerations for linear
array based PAI due to its popularity, simple setup, and high
potential for clinical translatability. Specifically, we describe the
strategies of US/PA imaging system setup, signal generation,
amplification, data processing and study the system performance.
Fossil leaf wax hydrogen isotopes reveal variability of Atlantic and Mediterranean climate forcing on the southeast Iberian Peninsula between 6000 to 3000 cal. BP
Authors: Schirrmacher Julien , Andersen Nils , Schneider Ralph R. , Weinelt Mara
Published: December 2020

Many recently published papers have investigated the spatial and temporal manifestation of the 4.2 ka BP climate event at regional and global scales. However, questions with regard to the potential drivers of the associated climate change remain open. Here, we investigate the interaction between Atlantic and Mediterranean climate forcing on the south-eastern Iberian Peninsula during the mid- to late Holocene using compound-specific hydrogen isotopes from fossil leaf waxes preserved in marine sediments. Variability of hydrogen isotope values in the study area is primarily related to changes in the precipitation source and indicates three phases of increased Mediterranean sourced precipitation from 5450 to 5350 cal. BP, from 5150 to 4300 cal. BP including a short-term interruption around 4800 cal. BP, and from 3400 to 3000 cal. BP interrupted around 3200 cal. BP. These phases are in good agreement with times of prevailing positive modes of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and reduced storm activity in the Western Mediterranean suggesting that the NAO was the dominant modulator of relative variability in precipitation sources. However, as previously suggested other modes such as the Western Mediterranean Oscillation (WeMO) may have altered this overall relationship. In this regard, a decrease in Mediterranean moisture source coincident with a rapid reduction in warm season precipitation during the 4.2 ka BP event at the south-eastern Iberian Peninsula might have been related to negative WeMO conditions.
Araztegi-lokatzak jasotako lurzoruaren analisi toxikologikoa zizare eta landareak erabiliz
Authors: Urionabarrenetxea Erik , Garcia-Velasco Nerea , Beraza Patxi , Sánchez Marta , Izagirre Urtzi , Zaldibar Beñat , Soto Manu
Published: December 2020

Urtetik urtera areagotzen diren giza populazioak eta jarduera industrialak zabortegi, isuri-puntu eta betetze guneen emendioa eragin du. Zabortegi horien artean, 48046-00181 kodearekin, «17-zabortegia» dago, Gernika-Lumon kokatua (43°19’28,9”N 2°40’30,9”W.). Zabortegi horretan, Gernikako araztegiko arazketa-lokatzak isuri izan ziren ongarri gisa urteetan zehar; eta, horrela, Gernikako industrian sortutako hainbat kutsatzaile (metal astunak, PAHak, pestizidak, etab.) bertan lurperatu ziren. Isurketaren eraginez gehien kaltetutako espezieen artean, azpimarratzekoak dira landareak eta zizareak edo antzeko lurzoruko ornogabeak; batez ere, berorien eta lurzoru-matrizearen arteko kontaktu estuagatik. Testuinguru horretan, lan honen helburua da lokatz horien isurketak eragindako efektuen ebaluazio bat gauzatzea, lurzoruari beste erabilera bat emate aldera; eta, horretarako, zabalki ezagunak diren test estandarizatu eta biomarkatzaileak erabiliko dira: organismo (uraza eta zizare), denbora (3, 7, 28 eta 56 egunera) eta konplexutasun biologiko desberdinetan (zelula-mailatik populazio-mailara arte). Besteak beste, OECD-204 (toxikotasun akutuaren testa), OECD-222 (ugalketa-testa) eta kaltzeina AM bideragarritasun-testak aplikatu ziren Eisenia fetida zizarean, paraleloki, Lactuca sativa landareetan ernetze- eta elongazio-testak gauzatu ziren heinean. Azterketa toxikologikoen ostean, kontrolarekiko desberdintasun esanguratsuak ikusi ziren: erauzitako zelomozito kantitatean, bideragarritasun zelularrean, ehunetan metatutako metal-kontzentrazioetan, hazkuntza-parametroetan (pisu-galeran) eta ugalketa-parametroetan, kutsatzaileek lurzoru biotan eragindako afekzioa berretsiz. L. sativa espeziarekin egindako frogetan, aldiz, ez zen desberdintasun nabarmenik preziatu talde esperimentalen artean.
La relevancia jurídica del derecho a la salud en el trabajo en el sistema normativo de prevención de riesgos laborales: función garantista y mecanismos de protección
Authors: Ahumada José Eduardo López
Published: December 2020

Este artículo aborda la problemática de la configuración jurídica del derecho a la salud en el trabajo desde la perspectiva de su conexión consustancial con el sistema normativo de prevención de riesgos laborales. Concretamente, se analizan de forma crítica los distintos presupuestos normativos que caracterizan el derecho a la salud en el trabajo y que se deben interpretar dentro de un bloque especializado de nuestro ordenamiento jurídico. En este sector normativo concurren distintas reglas especiales, que se despliegan en un marco legal complejo, presidido por un importante desarrollo normativo. Este estudio pretende realizar una reflexión sobre los principales problemas aplicativos del derecho a la salud en el trabajo desde una perspectiva doctrinal y jurisprudencial. La finalidad del estudio es clarificar algunas situaciones conflictivas presentes en nuestro ordenamiento jurídico, cuyo tratamiento condiciona la protección jurídica del derecho a la salud en el trabajo.
La negociación colectiva como instrumento para frenar los daños a la salud laboral derivados de la precariedad
Authors: Ríos Velada Alfonso
Published: December 2020

La precariedad laboral, característica de nuestro mercado de trabajo, es una realidad multifactorial que tiene incidencia en las malas condiciones de trabajo y en el deterioro de la salud de las personas trabajadoras. En este contexto, la interacción entre los agentes sociales a través de la negociación colectiva es, con el Derecho del Trabajo, la herramienta de las personas trabajadoras para tener unas condiciones de trabajo dignas, así como para mejorarlas.En este sentido, existe margen para que en la negociación colectiva se aborden materias que defiendan la salud en el trabajo, teniendo en cuenta que las medidas que contribuyen a combatir situaciones de precariedad laboral tienen incidencia también en la salud de las personas. La mayor garantía para un buen resultado en la negociación colectiva es que abarque el ámbito más amplio posible, generando derechos colectivos para el mayor número de personas.
A Critical Review of María Elena Jaime de Pablos, ed. 2019. Remaking the Literary Canon in English: Women Writers, 1880-1920. Granada: Comares. 128 pp. ISBN: 978-84-9045-748-1
Authors: Bernabeu Marta
Published: December 2020

Remaking the Literary Canon in English: Women Writers, 1880-1920. Edited by María Elena Jaime de Pablos. Granada: Editorial Comares, 2019, pp. 128. ISBN: 978-84-9045-748-1.
Los Sitios Reales como elementos clave de las monarquías europeas de la Edad Moderna: una aproximación
Authors: Hortal Muñoz José Eloy
Published: December 2020

A lo largo del tiempo, los Sitios Reales europeos han sido profusamente estudiados desde varios puntos de vista. Sin embargo, dichos estudios no siempre han tenido en cuenta los diversos elementos que componían los Sitios Reales en la Edad Moderna, pues mayoritariamente se han centrado en los edificios y en sus colecciones artísticas y patrimonio, prestando en ocasiones algo de atención a la caza o el urbanismo. Esto ha provocado que numerosos y cruciales componentes de los Sitios Reales hayan sido olvidados, y no se haya tenido en cuenta que dichos lugares deben estudiarse desde un punto de vista global para su correcta comprensión. Gracias a los avances metodológicos de los últimos años, están apareciendo trabajos sobre dichos lugares desde nuevas perspectivas que nos ayudan a comprender mejor su verdadero significado durante el periodo. El presente artículo pretende ofrecer una aproximación sobre los avances que nos encontramos en la actualidad sobre el estudio de los Sitios Reales, así como el papel que jugaron en la configuración de las monarquías europeas de la Edad Moderna.
Gran Bretaña y la cuestión catalana: la negociación hispanobritánica durante el final de la guerra de Sucesión española
Authors: Castellano García Manuel Alejandro
Published: December 2020

Tras un largo periodo supeditado a la diplomacia francesa, la apertura de una negociación bilateral con Gran Bretaña permitió a Felipe V negociar por primera vez con voz propia. De entre los puntos a acordar, el conocido como «caso de los catalanes» acabó revistiendo mucha más importancia de la prevista al chocar la intención británica de conseguir el respeto a las leyes y constituciones catalanas contra la inamovible convicción de Felipe V en abolirlas. En el presente artículo analizamos la negociación abierta con el viaje de Lord Lexington a Madrid y culminada por el marqués de Monteleón en Londres: las instrucciones recibidas por los respectivos negociadores y sus informes unidos a los testimonios y correspondencia de muchos de los protagonistas implicados nos permiten reconstruir una compleja negociación que, aunque no cerró el debate del caso catalán, sí marcó de forma definitiva el futuro de las libertades y constituciones catalanas.
Higher prevalence of multidrug-resistant extended-spectrum β-lactamases producing Escherichia coli in unorganized pig farms compared to organized pig farms in Mizoram, India
Authors: Mandakini R. , Roychoudhury P. , Subudhi P. K. , Kylla H. , Samanta I. , Bandyopadhayay S. , Dutta T. K.
Published: December 2020

Aim: The present study was conducted to record the prevalence of multidrug-resistant (MDR), extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) producing Escherichia coli from pig population of organized and unorganized farms of Mizoram and to record the presence of ESBLs, non-ESBLs, and integrons. Materials and Methods: Fecal samples were collected from pigs under organized (n=40) and unorganized (n=58) farms of Mizoram. Samples were processed for isolation and identification of E. coli by conventional techniques, BD Phoenix™ automated bacterial system, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based confirmatory test. All the isolates were subjected to antimicrobial sensitivity test by disk diffusion assay and ESBLs production by double-disk synergy test (DDST). The ESBLs producing isolates were subjected to PCR for determination of ESBLs genes and all the isolates were screened for non-ESBLs genes and integrons by PCR. Results: A total of 258 E. coli was isolated and identified from organized (n=120) and unorganized farms (n=138). Majority of the E. coli isolates exhibited high level of resistance against amoxicillin (Ax) (81.78%), cefalexin (85.42%), co-trimoxazole (50.78%), sulfafurazole (69.38%), tetracycline (65.89%), and trimethoprim (TR) (51.94%). Statistically highly significant (p<0.01) variations in resistance among the isolates from organized and unorganized farms were recorded in case of Ax, ampicillin, cephalexin, ciprofloxacin, co-trimoxazole, gentamicin, piperacillin, and TR. By DDST, 65.89% isolates were recorded as ESBLs producer, of which 82/120 (68.33%) and 88/138 (63.77%) were from organized and unorganized farms, respectively. A total of 29/258 (11.24%) isolates were positive for at least one ESBLs gene. blaTEM was most frequently (9.69%) gene, followed by blaCTX-M (5.04%) and blaCMY (0.78%). Altogether, 6 (5.00%), 4 (3.33%), and 2 (1.67%) isolates from the organized farms were positive for blaCTX-M, blaTEM, and blaCMY genes, respectively. Similarly, 21 (15.22%) and 7 (5.07%) isolates from the unorganized farms were positive for blaTEM and blaCTX-M genes, respectively. None of them were positive for blaSHV genes. Altogether 57 (22.09%), 9 (3.49%), 66 (25.58%), 78 (30.23%), 21 (8.14%), and 18 (6.98%) isolates were positive for tetA, tetB, sul1, sul2, aadA, and dfrla genes, respectively. The prevalence of non-ESBLs genes was higher in the E. coli isolates from the unorganized farms than organized farms. Conclusion: MDR and ESBLs producing E. coli are circulating among the pigs and their environment in Mizoram. Pigs under unorganized farms exhibited higher level of resistance against majority of the antimicrobials, including third-generation cephalosporins, which might be an indication of overuse or misuse of antibiotics under the unorganized piggery sectors in Mizoram.
La sociología de la negación de Stanley Cohen y el estudio del castigo
Authors: Daems Tom
Published: December 2020

En este artículo presentamos y discutimos el trabajo posterior de Stanley Cohen, es decir, sus escritos sobre la negación. Nos centramos en particular en la interacción entre el compromiso social y la distancia científica, la llamada «doble lealtad» que caracteriza su acercamiento a las cuestiones del crimen y la desviación, el castigo y el control. Argumentaremos que la sociología de la negación de Stanley Cohen no solo nos ayuda a comprender las formas en las que hablamos de los conflictos políticos y las graves violaciones de los derechos humanos, sino también de cuestiones penológicas más cotidianas. Ilustramos esto centrándonos en dos estudios de caso: la supervisión de las condiciones carcelarias por parte del Comité Europeo para la Prevención de la Tortura y de las Penas o Tratos Inhumanos o Degradantes y el debate sobre la regulación y desregulación de los cacheos a personas desnudas en cárceles belgas.
O formato das questões de resposta fechada: Implicações para a natureza, validade e fiabilidade das medidas
Authors: Garcia-Marques Teresa , Bártolo-Ribeiro Rui
Published: December 2020

This paper aims to support researchers in the decisions about the use of closed answer questions intheir questionnaires by critically reviewing the literature regarding the implications of such decisionsfor the nature, validity and reliability of the measure. This literature’s review provides arguments forthe researcher to decide on how best to operationalize their variables through a closed response.Arguments presented support decision-making in the construction of response options to be providedto the respondent, and the type of scale to be used: graphical or non-graphical; categories or continuousassessment; with 3 or more points; with or without labels and in this case, with what kind of labels,etc. Other topics are illustrated to be considered for construction of a response scale analyzing thespecific case in which “perceived frequencies” are measured.
Contextual Framework for Developing Research Competence: Piloting a Validated Classroom Model
Authors: Saunders Mark V. , Jamieson Lynn M.
Published: December 2020

The goal of most researchers is to establish competence in one’s profession; however, the degree to which this is measured in a research course is undetermined. The assessment of research competency usually involves the distinct measures of statistical ability, writing ability, and other skills that are quantifiable. Soft skills in research, on the other hand, are less distinguishable. It was the intent of this study to review eight years of data collection in undergraduate and graduate research classes to determine if a set of specific assignments was successful in developing the soft skills of research competence. Through a qualitative assessment, evaluation of visual materials, and assessment of a research instructional video, it was found that, to some extent, isolated and specific whole-part-whole, in-class and in-field assignments for the individual student or students within small groups, might allow students to develop the hard and soft skills necessary to become competent as researchers or their chosen profession.
Reflective Writing and Self-Regulated Learning in Multidisciplinary Flipped Classrooms
Authors: Robbins Michelle M. , Onodipe Grace O , Marks Alan
Published: December 2020

Flipped classes are designed to facilitate self-teaching, self-assessment, and self-regulation (Talbert, 2017). Because flipped classes demand more student responsibility than traditional classes, monitoring their own learning and making adjustments are crucial in helping students perceive this increase as manageable. The current study hypothesized that students in flipped classes would show increases across the semester in their self-regulated learning and that students who engaged in reflective writing tasks (e.g., Nilson, 2013) would show more improvement than those who did not. The full sample consisted of 402 students in courses across multiple disciplines, and there were 26 students in two psychology-specific courses. Contrary to expectations, students’ motivation and learning strategy scores decreased or remained stable across the semester, except for test anxiety and peer learning, which improved. In general, completing reflective writing tasks seemed to attenuate the decline in motivation scores and actually improve some learning strategy scores in the full sample, but not in the psychology-specific courses, except for test anxiety. These results may reflect an overall decrease in motivation due to the approaching end of the school year or more complexity than originally hypothesized. Follow-up analyses are underway to examine possible mediating/moderating factors. Methodological challenges in conducting multidisciplinary SoTL research and implications for future research are discussed.
The Linkages between Inflation and Inflation Uncertainty in Selected Asian Economies: Evidence from Quantile Regression
Authors: JIRANYAKUL Komain
Published: December 2020

This paper examines inflation-inflation uncertainty nexus in both inflation targeting and non-inflation targeting economies in Asia. Using monthly data from 1979M1 to 2019M12, the AR(p)-EGARCH model is used to generate inflation uncertainty series. In addition, quantile regression is employed to examine the linkages between inflation and inflation uncertainty in nine Asian countries. The results show that inflation positively causes inflation uncertainty in all economies regardless of whether economies have implemented inflation targeting or not. The Friedman-Ball hypothesis is thus supported. In addition, inflation uncertainty positively causes inflation in most economies. Therefore, the Cukierman-Meltzer hypothesis is likely to be supported. The findings signal the possibility of the real cost of inflation for these economies.
KANITA-DAYALI KAMU POLİTİKASI: HAYVANCILIK POLİTİKALARINA UYGULANABİLİRLİĞİ
Authors: ALBAYRAK Haydar
Published: December 2020

Son yıllarda birçok tarımsal ürünün ithal edilmek zorunda kalınması, tarım politikalarına yönelik eleştirileri artırmıştır. Tarımın bir alt sektörü olan hayvansal üretimde de benzer problemler yaşanmaktadır. Hayvan varlığındaki azalmaya bağlı olarak yurtiçi kırmızı et arzının ihtiyacı karşılamaması nedeniyle canlı hayvan ve et ithalatına başlanması, hayvancılık politikalarının başarısız olduğunu ve politikalarda ciddi değişikliklere gitmek gerektiğini göstermektedir. Mevcut politikalardaki başarısızlığın nedenlerin tespiti ve alternatif hayvancılık politikaların arayışı sürecinde tıpta önemli başarıların elde edilmesine vesile olan Kanıta-Dayalı Politika Yapımı yaklaşımının hayvancılık politikalarına uygulanabilirliğini araştırma düşüncesi ortaya çıkmıştır. Bu düşünce çerçevesinde yapmış olduğumuz çalışmada öncelikli olarak kanıta dayalı politika yapımı kavramı, bu konudaki akademik çalışmalar çerçevesinde açıklanmaya çalışılmıştır. Ardından hayvancılık sektörünün kendine has özellikleri ve kanıta-dayalı politika yapımı yaklaşımının hayvancılık politikalarına uygulananbilirliği araştırılmıştır. Çalışma neticesinde kanıta-dayalı politika yaklaşımının, çeşitli zorluklarına rağmen, hayvancılık politikalarına uygulanabileceği sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
PROPAGANDA TEKNİĞİ OLARAK TEKRARIN HABER METİNLERİNDE KULLANIMI
Authors: TANRIKULU Fatih
Published: December 2020

Bu araştırma propaganda tekniklerinden olan tekrar etmenin haber anlatılarında kullanımını tespit etmeyi amaçlamıştır. Araştırma 2 haftalık süreçte 5 farklı televizyon kanalında 9 farklı haber türüne odaklanmıştır. Her bir kanal için haber türüne ait bir anlatı seçilmiştir. Rastgele yöntemle seçilen anlatılar yazılı metne dönüştürülmüş ve içerik analiz yöntemiyle analiz edilmiştir. Her haber türünde toplam kaç kelime olduğu ve tekrarlanan kelime sayılarının tam metne oranı kodlama yapılarak tespit edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda haber metinlerinde ortalama %21,79 oranında kelime tekrarının olduğu görülmüştür. İstismar, trafik, hırsızlık ve suç, cinayet ve sağlık haber metinlerinde tekrar oranının ortalamanın üstünde olduğu, hayvan, şiddet, ekonomi ve eğitim haber metinlerine ait kelime tekrarının ortalamanın altında olduğu görülmüştür. En fazla tekrarın istismar en az tekrarın ise eğitim haberlerine ait olduğu görülmüştür.
Sensitization to Molecular Components in 104 Atopic Dermatitis Patients in Relation to Subgroups of Patients Suffering from Bronchial Asthma and Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Vaňková Radka , Čelakovská Jarmila , Bukač Josef , Krčmová Irena , Krejsek Jan , Andrýs Ctirad
Published: December 2020

Background: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease. The progression from AD to bronchial asthma (AB) and allergic rhinitis (AR) is called atopic march. The aim of this study was to evaluate the difference in the sensitization to molecular components in patients suffering from AD in relation to subgroups of patients with AR and AB. Material and Methods: The complete dermatological and allergological examinations were performed. Specific IgE antibodies against 112 molecular components were measured with the multiplex ImmnoCAP ISAC test. Results: Altogether 104 atopic dermatitis patients (50 men, 54 women) at the average age 40.1 years were examined. The sensitization to molecular components was confirmed in 93.3% of patients. The sensitization to components of mites, grasses, trees, animals, moulds, and shrimps was significantly more frequent in patients with severe form of AD and the sensitization to components of grasses, trees, and moulds was significantly higher in subgroup of patients with AB. In subgroup of patients suffering from AR the higher occurrence of pollen-derived and pollen-food derived PR-10 proteins, grasses, mites, and animals was observed also. Conclusions: We have confirmed the significant differences in the sensitization to molecular components in patients suffering from severe form of AD, and in subgroups of patients suffering from AB and AR. These molecular components may play the important role in the consecutive development of different allergy pathologies called atopic march.
Comparing the Efficacy of Sequential and Standard Quadruple Therapy for Eradication of H. Pylori Infection
Authors: Razavizadeh Mohsen , Arj Abbas , Madani Maryam , Gilassi Hamidreza
Published: December 2020

Background: The aim of this study was comparison the effectiveness of sequential and standard quadruple therapy on eradication of H. pylori infection. Methods: This clinical trial study was conducted on 160 patients with dyspepsia or gastroduodenal ulcer. Patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group A (standard regimen) received omeprazole, amoxicillin, clarithromycin and bismuth subcitrate for 2 weeks. Group B (sequential regimen) received omeprazole and amoxicillin in 5 days and omeprazole, tinidazole and levofloxacin in 5 days. After the end of treatment regimens, 20 mg omeprazole was administered twice daily for 3 weeks. H. pylori eradication was assessed 2 months after antibiotic treatment via fecal antigen. Results: Frequency of H. pylori eradication in group A and B was observed in 55 (68.8%) and 63 patients (78.8%), respectively. No significant difference was seen between two groups, regarding H. pylori eradication (p = 0.15). The most common side effects in group A, B were bitterness of mouth (63.8%) and nausea (16.2%), respectively (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Although no significant difference was seen between two groups regarding eradication of H. pylori infection, higher rate of H. pylori eradication was seen in group B than group A. Thus, sequential regimen was a more appropriate regimen with fewer complications.
Evaluation of Midpalatal Suture Ossification Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A Digital Radiographic Study
Authors: Katti Girish , Shahbaz Syed , Katti Chandrika , Rahman Mohd Sabyasachi
Published: December 2020

Background: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging techniques are the recent rage in the field of oral diagnostic imaging modality. It is noninvasive, faster and lacks anatomic superimposition. Earlier maxillary occlusal radiographs were used to assess and evaluate the mid palatal suture, but being a two dimensional imaging modality it could not assess the ossification process which takes place in multiple planes mostly due to curved nature of the palate. In this study we assessed the mid palatal suture morphology and classify them according to the variants using CBCT images. Materials and methods: A total of 200 CBCT scans (95 males and 105 females) were evaluated in the present study from the archives of an imaging center. As per Angelieri classification the midpalatal suture was classified into five categories (A–E) depending on the degree of ossification that had taken place. Statistical analysis was done by Chi Square test using SPSS version 23.0. Results: There is statistically significant difference present in the stages of maturity of mid palatal suture in various age groups with Stage B is most common in Group 1 (50%), Stage C most common in Group 2 (60%) and Group 3 (40%) and Stage E more common in Group 4 (50%). Conclusion: The results of the present study showed a wide variation in the initiation time and the degree of ossification and morphology of the midpalatal suture in different age groups. Although there was an increase in the closure of the suture with aging, age is not a reliable criterion for determining the open or closed nature of the suture. This finding is important in providing an idea as to how diverse is the ossification of maxillary sutures.
Online Y-chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat Haplotype Reference Database (YHRD) for U.S. Populations
Authors: Kayser M , Brauer S , Willuweit S , Schädlich H , Batzer MA , Zawacki J , Prinz M , Roewer L , Stoneking M
Published: December 2020

We describe here an online Y-chromosomal short tandem repeat haplotype reference database (YHRD) for U.S. populations, which represents 9-locus Y-STR haplotypes for 1705 African-Americans, European-Americans and Hispanics as of October 2001. This database is available online (http://www.ystr. org/usa/), free to access and was generated in order to supply the U.S. forensic DNA community with a valuable resource for frequencies of complete or incomplete 9-locus Y-STR haplotypes, as well as information about typing protocols and population genetic analyses. Pairwise RST-statistics derived from the Y-STR haplotypes indicate no significant substructure among African-American populations from different regions of the U.S., nor (usually) among European-American and Hispanic populations. Thus, pooling of YSTR haplotype data from regional populations within these three major groups is appropriate in order to obtain larger sample sizes. However, pooling of different major populations is generally not recommended due to statistically significant differences between African-American populations and all European-American / Hispanic populations, as well as between some European-American and Hispanic populations.
Mitochondrial Dna and Str Typing of Matter Adhering to an Earphone
Authors: Seo Y , Uchiyama T , Matsuda H , Shimizu K , Takami Y , Nakayama T , Takahama K
Published: December 2020

STR typing and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequencing were performed on the matter adhering to an earphone found at a crime scene. Experimental studies were carried out using the earphones provided by volunteers. By means of immunohistochemistry, keratinocytes and a portion of nucleated epithelial cells were proven to exist in the contents from the earphones. DNA was extracted by means of the phenol/chloroform method, and the low quantity of extracted DNA was found to be highly degraded. Six STR loci, CSF1PO, TPOX, TH01, F13A01, FESFPS and vWA, were PCR amplified and typed by using two triplex systems (CTT and FFv Multiplexes, Promega, WI), and an amelogenin locus was determined as well. Although partial profiles were observed in some experimental samples, all STR loci could be typed when a considerable amount of high molecular weight DNA was obtained (_0.5 ng/_L). Amplification and sequencing of mtDNA hypervariable region I (15997-16401) and hypervariable region II (29-408) were all successful. The mitochondrial DNA sequence of the actual case sample, comprising two hypervariable regions and a total of 785 base pairs, showed eight mutations and two insertions with respect to the standard published reference sequence. The genotype was unique in the three published Japanese databases. These results suggest that it is possible to analyze mtDNA from minute amounts of materials and from degraded materials more effectively and routinely in forensic practice.
Screen-Printing Ink Transfer in a Sexual Assault Case
Authors: Amick JF , Beheim CW
Published: December 2020

Yellow plastic-like particles were discovered on the clothing and body of a sexual assault victim. These particles were later associated to an athletic jersey with flaking yellow screenprinted numbers and letters, worn by the suspect. Depending on its intended substrate, screen-print ink can vary in color and composition. Particles dislodged from screen-printed garments may exhibit fabric impressions. Screen-printed clothing, commonly encountered in forensic casework, should be viewed as a potential source of trace evidence.
Identification of Tiny and Thin Smears of Automotive Paint Following a Traffic Accident
Authors: Giang Y-S , Wang S-M , Cho L-L , Yang C-K , Lu C-C
Published: December 2020

Three complementary methods in the order of stereomicroscopy,micro-FT-IR spectroscopy and solubility tests were used for the purpose of matching known and questioned paint samples in an auto accident case. Grayish green paint smears scattered on a silvery gray coated plastic bar were taken from a blue car and referred to as questioned samples. Green paint chips were collected as known samples from a green car. These were analyzed to determine whether the paint smears found in the blue car could have been the transfers from the green car. Although each of the three methods, when used alone, suffered from unequal bases for making comparison (i.e., layering whole paint vs. smeared paint), insufficient specificity of methodology and the interfering background coating beneath the smeared paint, the limitations were significantly relieved when three methods were used in combination. Based on the results presented in this report, the questioned grayish green paint smears collected from the blue car and the known green paint chips from the green car are of the same class of paint; that is, the possibility of the above stated paint transfers cannot be eliminated.
Post-cremation Taphonomy and Artifact Preservation
Authors: Warren MW , Schultz JJ
Published: December 2020

Contemporary commercial cremation is a reductive taphonomic process that represents one of the most extreme examples of postmortem human alteration of bone. The thorough reduction and fragmentation of cremated human remains often leaves little biological evidence of diagnostic value. Instead, non-osseous artifacts often provide the best evidence of the origin of the cremated remains, the identity of the decedent, and commingling of the remains of more than one individual. Once human remains have been cremated they are most commonly placed into a processor and reduced into small fragments and fine ash suitable for inurnment or scattering. The type of processor determines the size and utility of the particulates and artifacts available for analysis. The newest type of processors have changed the manner and degree of postmortem bone modification and altered the preservation of diagnostic bone fragments and cremation artifacts. This paper addresses the impact of the newest cremation procedures on forensic analysis of cremated remains.
Allele Frequencies for Three STR Loci RT24, RT09, and BM1225 in Northern New England White-tailed Deer
Authors: Smith PF , DenDanto D , Smith KT , Palman D , Kornfield I
Published: December 2020

Muscle samples (~1 cm3) were obtained from harvested animals in four distinct locations in each state (total sample size = 362). Maine samples were collected during the 1998 deer hunting season (November 1–31, 1998), New Hampshire samples were collected during the 1999 hunt (November 13–19, 1999), and Vermont samples were collected during the 1999 hunt (November 13–19, 1999). DNA was extracted using the QIAmp™ tissue kit (Quiagen, Valencia, CA) as per the manufacturer's instructions (1). One to two µL of extracted DNA was used in a 25 µL multiplex PCR reaction containing 10 mM KCl, 20 mM Tris pH 9.5, 10 mM (NH4)2SO4, 1 mM MgCl, 4 mM dNTP's (Promega, Madison, WI), 0.75 units of Taq DNA Polymerase (GibcoBRL, Grand Island, NY), and 0.3 µM of each primer (Operon, Almeda, CA). Three STR loci were examined: BM1225 [(2), primers: BM1225f ttt ctc aac aga ggt gtc cac BM1225r acc cct atc acc atg ctc tg], RT09 [(3), primers: RT9f tga agt tta att tcc act ct, RT9r cag tca ctt tca tcc cac at] and RT24 [(3), primers: RT24f tgt atc cat ctg gaa gat ttc ag, RT24r cag ttt aac cag tcc tct gtg]. PCR was performed in a HYBAid OMN-E Personal Thermal Cycler™ (HYBAid, Middlesex, UK) for 30 cycles (94°C, 30s; 54°C, 45 s; 70°C, 2 min) and a final extension (72°C, 10 min). PCR products were electrophoresed and analyzed with an ABI 377™ automated DNA sequencer as per the manufacturer's instructions (Applied Biosystems International, Foster City, CA). Electropherograms were interpreted using Genescan™ (ver. 3.1) and Genotyper™ (ver. 2.1) software (Applied Biosystems International, Foster City, CA). Allele frequencies and heterozygosities were calculated with Genepop (ver. 3.1c) (4) and Hardy Weinberg tests were performed with GDA (ver. 1.0d16c) (5).
Review of: Contrast: An Investigator's Basic Reference Guide to Fingerprint Identification Concepts
Authors: Sinke MJ
Published: December 2020

This book was written as a guidebook to illustrate the basic concepts involved in the science of fingerprints and fingerprint identification and, according to the author, is intended for new and experienced crime scene investigators, patrol officers, attorneys, and students "who seek to add fingerprint identification to their investigative skills." The guidebook is meant to give a general background in fingerprint concepts and the reader should not view himself or herself as proficient in fingerprint identification after reading this book. As the author points out in the introduction, "On the average, it takes about 5 years of training and fieldwork to be considered a proficient and experienced fingerprint specialist." At the very least, a fingerprint identification expert should successfully complete a two to three year training program in all facets of fingerprints at a qualified training laboratory under the guidance of court recognized experts to be considered an expert in latent prints. The author correctly points out that becoming proficient in the area of fingerprints is basically a learned experience from on-the-job training, but that the basis for fingerprint identification and advances in processing techniques makes it desirable to have knowledge in scientific disciplines.
Review of: Digital Analysis of Bite Mark Evidence Using Adobe® Photoshop®
Authors: Kenney JP
Published: December 2020

The use of digitization and computer analysis in many areas of forensic science is "cutting edge." The same is true of bite mark analysis. The authors have taken what to many of us is a confusing and technically complex procedure and reduced it to a straightforward and simple technique. Adobe ® Photoshop ® can be a daunting program to learn, and incorporating the necessary safeguards and logging of steps used to get to the end work product would take many hours of study by the average odontologist. This spiral bound text, which includes a 3.5diskette with a sample case, makes the learning curve quite reasonable. The spiral binding also allows it to be easily used as a workbook. I might add that these techniques could very well find wide use in the criminalistics/pathology/anthropology communities, particularly, in tool mark/patterned injury analysis, much as the ABFO #2 photo scale has found wide use throughout the forensic sciences worldwide for documenting evidence.
The Effect of 1,2-Indanedione, a Latent Fingerprint Reagent on Subsequent DNA Profiling
Authors: Azoury M , Zamir A , Oz C , Wiesner S
Published: December 2020

The compound 1,2-indanedione was recently introduced in our laboratory as an operational reagent for developing latent fingerprints on porous surfaces. As part of the reagent implementation, a study was carried out in order to determine whether either of the two operational 1,2-indanediones formulations interferes with further DNA profiling. Both formulations are based on HFE7100 solvent. One is acidic and the other neutral. In a controlled experiment, known donors attached stamps to envelopes by licking them. The stamped envelopes were initially treated with either one indanedione formulation or the other, and DNA was then extracted for STR typing. No differences were observed between the STR profiles obtained from treated and untreated stamps and envelopes, indicating that 1,2-indanedione does not adversely affect the extraction and subsequent amplification of the STRs examined. However, preliminary results indicate that potential DNA analysis depends on the time interval between the indanedione treatment and DNA extraction as no DNA can be recovered six days following treatment. For this reason, it is strongly recommended to extract DNA from treated items of evidence as soon as possible after indanedione treatment.
Use of a Y Chromosome Probe as an Aid in the Forensic Proof of Sexual Assault
Authors: Dziegelewski M , Simich JP , Rittenhouse-Olson K
Published: December 2020

Currently, the most common procedures for the forensic identification of semen that may be present due to a sexual assault include the microscopic identification of spermatozoa, acid phosphatase activity, or the detection of PSA. However, not all cases of sexual assault result in the deposit of semen. Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) has been found to be a very sensitive and specific method for detection of the Y chromosome from male cells. This study was undertaken to demonstrate the presence of epithelial cells of male origin in the postcoital vaginal tract using a commercially available probe. Results identified Y chromosome in intact epithelial cells on postcoital Days 1 through 4, and on Day 7. Additionally, Y chromosome positive epithelial cells were identified in vaginal swabs obtained following intercourse with no ejaculation. The method developed in this study demonstrates that FISH is a sensitive method for the identification of the presence of male epithelial cells in the postcoital vagina.
The Death of Adolf Hitler—Forensic Aspects
Authors: Marchetti D , Boschi I , Polacco M , Rainio J
Published: December 2020

The death of Adolf Hitler is one of the unsolved mysteries of the twentieth century. Numerous historians and journalists have attempted to piece together the details, but despite the interest in the forensic literature regarding the identification of the body, there has not been much scientific debate about the alleged cause of death—cyanide poisoning, gunshot injury, or both. The available literature concerning Hitler's cause of death is incomplete because the toxicological analysis has not been performed and because the skull bone fragment with a gunshot wound possibly from Hitler's corpse has not been properly examined. This has given basis for various theories, which are reviewed. We believe that mtDNA analysis of the skull fragments and of Hitler's jaw, now filed in Moscow, and samples from maternal relatives of Hitler are crucial linking the skull fragment with the gunshot wound to Hitler.
An analysis of the policies of Information and Communication Technologies for Agriculture in Mali
Authors: Kante Macire , Ndayizigamiye Patrick
Published: December 2020

To harness the potential of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs), developing countries need to develop national ICT policies that will serve as a framework for integrating ICTs at all levels of society. In the absence of that, different actors often engage in various actions for the same beneficiaries and in pursuit of the same objectives. That raises the need to define a national framework for the promotion and application of ICTs in the various production areas, particularly agricultural ones. It is for that reason that this study examined through qualitative methods (policy documents and semi-structured interviews) the national policy of Mali on the use of ICTs in agriculture. Data was analysed using the Qualitative Content Analysis (QCA) method with the aid of NVIVO 12 software. The results showed that the country has two policy documents that articulate the country’s strategy towards the use of ICTs in the agricultural sector, that is, the Agricultural Orientation Law and the National Strategy for the Development of the Digital Economy. Further examination revealed that that these two policy documents are neither appropriate nor coherent in today's Malian landscape. This has resulted in an underutilisation of digital tools by agricultural extension officers which led to the low agricultural productivity in the country. This study recommended therefore the recasting of both documents to take into account the reported observations
Empatía, inteligencia emocional y tolerancia a la diversidad en estudiantes de educación de una universidad pública peruana
Authors: Frisancho León Augusto , Aliaga Tovar Jaime Ramiro , Peña-Calero Brian Norman
Published: December 2020

Los objetivos de la investigación fueron, en primer lugar, determinar los niveles de la empatía, inteligencia emocional y la tolerancia a la diversidad en una muestra conformada por 181 estudiantes de educación; en segundo lugar, establecer la relación existente entre las tres variables de estudio y, finalmente, determinar si hay diferencias en dichas variables debidas al sexo, el ciclo de estudios y las confesiones religiosas. Los instrumentos utilizados fueron el Trait Meta-Mood Scale-24, el Test de Empatía Cognitiva y Afectiva, y un instrumento de tolerancia a la diversidad. Los resultados a los que se arribaron indican la mayor parte de los estudiantes tiene un nivel alto de tolerancia a la diversidad y de empatía, y un nivel promedio de inteligencia emocional. Se confirmó la relación existente entre las puntuaciones de inteligencia emocional y empatía, así como las puntuaciones entre empatía y tolerancia a la diversidad, pero no entre inteligencia emocional y tolerancia a la diversidad. Asimismo, se encontró que hay diferencia en tolerancia a la diversidad y en empatía entre varones y mujeres, a favor de estas últimas; que no hay diferencia en función al ciclo de estudios en ninguna de las variables estudiadas; y que los estudiantes que profesan la religión católica presentan un mayor nivel de empatía que los alumnos no creyentes.
Identification and in situ hybridization to mitotic chromosomes of a molecular marker linked to maleness in Anastrepha fraterculus (Wied.)
Authors: Basso Alicia , Sonvico Ariane
Published: December 2020

The present report shows the molecular identification, isolation and citologically localization of a DNA-sequence from the South American fruit fly Anastrepha fraterculus (DIPTERA: Tephritidae) involved in sex- determination. It belongs to the Tephritidae family, the true fruit flies which are consider a pest of fruit crops. The sex determination system is of vital importance in the genetic control of the fruit fly pest: Sterile Insect Technique which unlike chemical control tactics, is environmentally friendly and does not pose any health concerns. We used in situ hybridization on mitotic chromosomes for localizing the primary sex determination factor in this fruit fly pest. Our results show that in Anastrepha fraterculus the Y chromosome is responsible for sex determination
Racism as a Root Cause Approach: A New Framework
Authors: Malawa Zea , Gaarde Jenna , Spellen Solaire
Published: December 2020

The field of public health has identified racial health disparities as a chief concern for decades. Although there has been a myriad of published articles in which researchers describe the severity and complexity of these disparities, they persist into present day relatively unchanged. We believe this lack of progress can be explained, in part, by a failure to acknowledge that racism is at the root of these racial disparities. Many children’s health advocates believe more should be done to address our country’s systemic racial inequities, but few of us feel able to create meaningful change, and even fewer feel that it is our responsibility. As a result, many opt to pursue programmatic fixes and Band-Aid solutions over addressing the underlying systemic, interpersonal, and historical racism. We hope to empower children’s health advocates by introducing a solutions-centered framework for addressing racism as a root cause. This approach can help guide and structure the important work of dismantling racism so Black, Indigenous, and other racially marginalized families can finally have an equal opportunity for good health.