bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated Postmortem Tryptase in the Absence of Anaphylaxis
Authors: Randall B , Butts J , Halsey JF
Published: August 2015

Elevations in tryptase, a recently discovered mast cell enzyme, have been proposed as a postmortem indicator of fatal anaphylaxis. The previous studies had limited numbers of controls and thus the specificity of the test with postmortem samples was not known. Therefore, tryptase was evaluated in postmortem blood samples from 49 autopsy cases where there was no evidence of fatal anaphylaxis. The tryptase was above the normal serum threshold of 1 nanogram/mL (ng/mL) in 31 of these cases. Twenty-four cases had values in the 1 to 5 ng/mL range, two cases were between 5 and 10 ng/mL, and five were greater than 10 ng/mL. One autopsy specimen had a tryptase value of 106 ng/mL. The postmortem interval and the specimen storage condition did not appear to correlate with these elevations in tryptase. Although elevations in the postmortem tryptase remain an important supporting finding in the diagnosis of fatal anaphylaxis, it should not be used alone as the sole criterion for the postmortem diagnosis of anaphylaxis.
Fixed Bin Frequency Distributions for the VNTR Locus D5S110 in General United States Reference Databases
Authors: Budowle B , Giusti AM
Published: August 2015

Fixed bin frequencies for the D5S110 locus were determined in African Americans, Caucasians, Southeastern Hispanics, and Southwestern Hispanics. The data were generated by RFLP analysis of HAE III-digested genomic DNA. The D5S110 locus met Hardy-Weinberg expectations in the four sample populations, and there is no evidence for association of alleles between the D5S110 and other routinely used VNTR loci. The frequency data can be used in forensic analyses and paternity tests to estimate the frequency of a DNA profile in various general United States populations.
Sex Determination of Forensic Samples by Simultaneous PCR Amplification of α-Satellite DNA from Both the X and Y Chromosomes
Authors: Neeser D , Liechti-Gallati S
Published: August 2015

Simultaneous amplification of the alphoid repeated sequences clustered in the centromeric regions of both the human X and Y chromosome was performed. Modification and improvement of the polymerase chain reaction conditions resulted in detectable amplification products from less than 1 ng of genomic DNA template. Sex determination was successful in various types of biological materials of forensic interest as bloodstains, vaginal swabs, cigarette butts, bones, and hair roots. The authors suggest that the coamplification of both X- and Y-sequences in a unique reaction mixture is a fast, human specific, sensitive and reliable method providing internal reaction control and sex determination in DNA from a variety of different types of specimens as well as from specimens of limited amount, thus, being very useful in forensic research for the analysis of biological evidence.
Application of Micellar Electrokinetic Capillary Chromatography to Forensic Analysis of Barbiturates in Biological Fluids
Authors: Ferslew KE , Hagardorn AN , McCormick WF
Published: August 2015

Micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography (MECC) is a form of capillary zone electrophoresis. Addition of a surfactant produces micelles in an aqueous/organic buffer. Separation of drugs is obtained via differences in the electrophoretic mobilities of the analytes within the capillary, resulting from their electrophoretic velocity and the electroosmotic flow of the buffer in a given electric field. The migration order is determined by the differential partitioning of the drugs between the micelles and the aqueous/organic phase.

Barbiturates were extracted from various biological fluids at pH 4.5 with TOXI-TUBES B. MECC analyses were performed using a Waters Quanta 4000 Capillary Electrophoretic System with a 745 Data Module with a 75 µ × 60 cm capillary and an aqueous/organic buffer of 85% 10 mM borate, 10 mM phosphate, 100 mM sodium dodecyl sulfate and 15% acetonitrile at a pH of 8.5 with a voltage of 20 kV using ultraviolet absorption detection at 214 nm. Migration times were: phenobarbital, 7.78 min.; butalbital, 8.01 min.; butabarbital, 8.23 min.; mephobarbital (internal standard), 8.88 min.; amobarbital, 9.41 min.; pentobarbital, 10.03 min. and secobarbital, 10.79 min. Correlation coefficients (r) between peak areas and concentration ranges of 3 to 60 µg/mL were from 0.964 to 0.999. Coefficients of variation (CV) ranged from 2.6 to 8.6% between days and 2.3 to 9.8% within day. Application of this methodology to four forensic cases of butalbital intoxication detected concentrations of 0.7 to 12.7 µg/mL in blood; 0.8 to 1.9 µg/mL in vitreous humor and 1.5 to 7.6 µg/mL in urine. MECC is applicable to forensic analysis of barbiturates extracted from biological fluids.
AmpliType® PM and HLA DQα Typing from Pap Smear, Semen Smear, and Postcoital Slides
Authors: Roy R , Reynolds R
Published: August 2015

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) samples extracted from stained pap smear, semen smear and postcoital slides were amplified by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and typed for the AmpliType® PM and HLA DQα alleles. HLA DQ α and PM types consistent with blood controls from the donors were obtained. Stained cells fixed to slides can provide a valuable source of material for determining a genetic profile of the sample donor, particularly in sexual assault cases and possibly in missing person cases involving women.
The Use of DAPI As a Replacement for Ethidium Bromide in Forensic DNA Analysis
Authors: Buel E , Schwartz M
Published: August 2015

Ethidium bromide is used extensively for the visualization of DNA in forensic applications. This is usually accomplished by the addition of dye to the gel and buffer before electrophoresis or by staining the gel after the run. In both procedures considerable ethidium bromide containing buffer is generated that must be decontaminated. We demonstrate that another fluorescent DNA binding dye, 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole dihydrochloride (DAPI), can be used in place of ethidium bromide for yield and restriction gels, and to stain the visual marker of analytical gels. A low concentration of DAPI is added directly to the DNA. Most of the stain is immediately bound to the DNA and remains bound during electrophoresis.
Consistency and Reproducibility of AmpliType® PM Results Between Seven Laboratories: Field Trial Results
Authors: Fildes N , Reynolds R
Published: August 2015

The AmpliType® PM Field Trial was designed to assess the ability of forensic laboratories to obtain the correct results from samples commonly encountered in forensic casework. The seven forensic laboratory participants of the AmpliType® PM Field Trial each performed four studies. Samples were analyzed using components of the AmpliType® PM PCR Amplification and Typing Kit. Laboratories were also provided with DNA probe strips to type the DQA1 locus. Of the 381 PM and 325 DQA1 DNA probe strip results obtained from DNA-containing and non-DNA-containing samples, 98.2% and 95.7% showed the correct result for PM and DQA1 types, respectively. No samples were typed incorrectly. The remaining small percentage of samples were either uninterpretable due to the presence of a mixture, or no result was obtained due to insufficient DNA. The Field Trial demonstrated that laboratories can easily implement the AmpliType® PM system to analyze DNA-containing samples and controls successfully for forensic casework applications.
Resin Dental Casts as an Aid in Bite Mark Identification
Authors: McKinstry RE
Published: August 2015

Two techniques are presented for the fabrication of resin dental casts to aid in bite mark analysis. The first technique produces visible light cured dental casts of the suspected biter's dentition. These casts can be compared to the victim's bite marks or photographs of the bite marks. The technique is rapid and casts of the suspected biter's dentition can be made in less than thirty minutes, which is advantageous when the elimination of possible suspects must be accomplished in a timely fashion. The second technique involves the fabrication of crystal clear epoxy resin dental casts of the suspected biter's dentition. The dental casts are translucent and permit visualization through the teeth when comparisons are made to the bite marks or to tracings or photographs of the bite marks. The casts can also serve as an educational tool for a jury or juries in trials involving bite mark evidence. The resin dental casts are less brittle than dental stone casts permitting storage without concern for breakage for periods of years.
Definitive Identification of an Exceptionally High Methanol Concentration in an Intoxication of a Surviving Infant: Methanol Metabolism by First-Order Elimination Kinetics
Authors: Wu AHB , Kelly T , McKay C , Ostheimer D , Forte E , Hill D
Published: August 2015

Intoxication by methanol was identified in a five-week-old infant suffering from moderate metabolic acidosis. The initial serum methanol at admission was 1148 mg/dL as measured by gas chromatography. The osmolal gap and formic acid concentrations were consistent with methanol intoxication. The child was treated with folic acid and a continuous ethanol infusion and survived without any apparent permanent problems. Because expected toxic symptoms did not develop in this case, and the methanol concentrations were at levels that might be deemed to be incompatible with life, blood and urine samples were assayed by a specific enzymatic assay, and by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Positive results definitively confirmed the presence of methanol. In contrast to previous reports, the elimination of methanol in this case appeared to following first-order kinetics. If hepatic ADH activity is low in neonates and young infants, another enzyme system such as catalase may be involved to explain this data. The lack of formic acid accumulation may have been due to folic acid therapy.
A Review of Forensic Stylistics
Authors: Dillon DJ
Published: August 2015

The audience for Dr. McMenamin's recent publication should encompass a diverse group of professionals within the American justice community. His topic will be of interest to, investigators, attorneys, document examiners and various practitioners in the forensic sciences. Because the author is a well respected and acknowledged expert in his specialty, this volume is a welcome addition to forensic science literature and is potentially the prime authoritative work on this subject.
Symposium: Papers Honoring William M. Bass, Ph.D., By His Students
Authors: Willey P , Jantz RL
Published: August 2015

This symposium was organized and edited by P. Willey, Ph.D., Department of Anthropology, Calitbrnia State University, Chico, CA 95929-0400, and R, L. Jantz, Ph.D., Department of Anthropology, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN 37996-0720.
The Influence of William M. Bass III on the Development of American Forensic Anthropology
Authors: Ubelaker DH , Hunt DR
Published: August 2015

Through his teaching, research and casework over the last 33 years, William M. Bass has become a central figure in the development of the American forensic anthropology. His influence can be measured through the quantity and activity of his students in the field, the number and breadth of his publications relating to the field, his growing casework, his activity and important role in the development of the Physical Anthropology section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, and his continual willingness to lecture to interested groups.

Like many of his contemporaries in physical anthropology. Bass gradually shifted his academic interests toward forensic anthropology throughout his career. This shift is reflected in all areas of his academic life. His contributions have raised professionalism and acceptance of forensic anthropology as an integrated aspect of both forensic science and anthropology.

Bass's unique style and breadth of his contributions can be traced to his education (University of Virginia, Kentucky, and Pennsylvania) and his mentors (Coon, Krogman, Stewart, Eisley and Roberts).
The Role of Ethanol in Heroin Deaths
Authors: Levine B , Green D , Smialek JE
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the role of ethanol in deaths due to heroin intoxication. Over a 12 month period, all cases investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland where a blood screen by Roche Abuscreen radioimmunoassay (RIA) was positive at a cutoff of 100 ng/mL were included in the study. Free morphine was quantitated using the Coat-A-Count RIA and ethanol was quantitated by head space gas chromatography. All presumptive morphine positive cases were confirmed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Seventy of the 119 cases where death was attributed to narcotic or alcohol and narcotic intoxication had blood ethanol concentrations (BAC) greater than or equal to 0.02 g/dL; 48 had BAC ≥ 0.10 g/dL. Only 3 of 45 cases where morphine was identified but was unrelated to death had BAC ≥ 0.02 g/dL. At all ranges of free morphine concentrations, there was a greater percentage of narcotic deaths when ethanol was present. From the data, we conclude that 1) the use of even small amounts of ethanol with heroin is clearly a risk factor in deaths due to heroin, 2) there are some heroin deaths where no free morphine is identified in the blood. In these deaths, ethanol is unlikely to be present, 3) at blood ethanol concentrations between 0.20 and 0.29 g/dL, the morphine concentrations in heroin deaths increased significantly, 4) at blood ethanol concentrations greater than 0.30 g/dL, morphine became less of a factor than the ethanol in causing death.
Novel Chlorinated Tropanes Derived from the Treatment of Cocaine with Sodium Hypochlorite
Authors: Casale JF , Moore JM , Cooper DA
Published: August 2015

Several novel chlorinated tropanes were produced when cocaine was treated with aqueous sodium hypochlorite. Two of these, 2′- and 3′-chlorobenzoyloxy-2-carbomethoxypseudotropine (that is, ortho- and meta-chlorococaine), were characterized by synthesis and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Four other new chlorinated tropanes (endo-6- and 7-chlorococaine, exo-6- or 7-chlorococaine and N-chlorobenzoylnorecgonine methyl ester) were also tentatively identified via their gas chromatography retention data and mass spectra. The results are of potential use in cocaine signature and comparative analysis.
Development of Latent Fingerprints on Paper Using Magnetic Flakes
Authors: Wilshire B , Hurley N
Published: August 2015

For various types of paper differing in color and surface texture, a study has been made of the factors governing the developed print qualities achieved using a magnetic applicator to apply fine iron flake powders and the subsequent retrieval of the magnetic flake from the papers using a rare-earth permanent magnet.
Chemical Markers in Weathered Gasoline
Authors: Coulombe R
Published: August 2015

GC/MS of different products and fire debris samples were run to detect evidence of the presence of weathered gasoline. Doing so, chemicals characterized as diphenyl disulfides and homologues were detected specifically in gasoline and were not present in creosote as well as other petroleum derivatives. Although in trace amounts, these disulfides are positive evidence of the presence of weathered gasoline and could be considered as markers. Their absence does not, however, disprove the presence of gasoline.
Distinguishing the Cause of Textile Fiber Damage Using the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM)
Authors: Pelton WR
Published: August 2015

Forensic investigations have been using fiber scanning electron microscopy to identify the cause of textile damage. This study was modeled after previously documented cases with the aims to create fabric damage under a known series of conditions, to examine the fiber's fracture morphology, to photograph SEM fiber-end images, and to compare the appearance characteristics with known theory. Overlapping characteristics were observed for scissor cut, knife cut and torn fabrics. Results were not totally consistent with those previously published. In certain cases, fiber-end morphology alone may be unreliable to distinguish the source of fiber damage. A need is demonstrated for further experimentation to establish a protocol for the forensic analysis of fiber damage that would include all aspects of textile microscopy.
Arab Population Data on the PCR-Based Loci: HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, and D1S80
Authors: Hayes JM , Budowle B , Freund M
Published: August 2015

Allele and genotype frequencies for seven polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based DNA genetic markers were determined in an Arab sample population. The loci analyzed were HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc and D1S80. Results were obtained from the first six loci using the AmpliType HLA-DQα DNA and AmpliType PM PCR Amplification and Typing Kits. The VNTR locus D1S80 PCR product was analyzed by polyacrylamide electrophoresis and silver staining. All loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations. The frequency data can be used in forensic analyses and paternity tests to estimate the frequency of a DNA profile in the Arab population.
Post-Anesthesia Uncal Herniation Secondary to a Previously Unsuspected Temporal Glioma
Authors: Vender JR , Black P , Natter HM , Katsetos CD
Published: August 2015

We report the case of a 21-year-old male who sustained an uncal herniation and subsequent brain death following general anesthesia, for a minor orthopedic procedure, owing to the presence of a large, unsuspected temporal glioma. The possible factors responsible for the precipitation of this event are appraised.
A New Extremely Large Allele at the D1S80 (MCT118) Locus
Authors: Kádasi L , Bohušová T
Published: August 2015

A new extremely large allele at locus D1S80, segregating in a three-generation family is described. The length of PCR-generated allele is approximately 1000 bp. Restriction analysis indicates that this increase is due to an increased number of basic core sequence. The assessed number of tandem repeats is in range 52–55, corresponding to 979–1027 bp exact length of the PCR-generated fragment.
Postmortem Distribution and Redistribution of Morphine in Man
Authors: Logan BK , Smirnow D
Published: August 2015

This study evaluated both site dependent differences and time dependent changes in postmortem morphine concentrations in man. In 32 deaths involving morphine, left ventricular blood, femoral blood, and cisternal cerebrospinal fluid, were collected as soon after death as possible (T1), and collected again together with iliac blood at the time of autopsy (T2). Samples were analyzed for morphine by radioimmunoassay.

No evidence was found for changes in morphine concentration with respect to time at either central or peripheral sites, or in the cerebrospinal fluid. Ventricular blood morphine concentrations were however consistently higher than those in the peripheral compartment, represented by either femoral or iliac blood. This was particularly true when the ventricular morphine concentration exceeded 0.300 mg/L. At peripheral sites, femoral and iliac blood morphine concentrations were well correlated with each other, making either an appropriate site for collection of peripheral blood for toxicological testing.
Fatal Light Aircraft Accidents in Ontario: A Five Year Study
Authors: Shkrum MJ , Hurlbut DJ , Young JG
Published: August 2015

Fatal civil aviation crashes in Ontario from 1985 to 1989 were studied. Data regarding accident circumstances, injury patterns and medical factors (disease, alcohol/drugs) which could have contributed to accident causation was obtained from a review of the files of the Chief Coroner for Ontario in Toronto and the aviation occurrence reports of the Transportation Safety Board of Canada. Forty-seven crashes involving mainly general aviation type aircraft but also 2 gyroplanes, 2 ultralights and a glider were reviewed. About half occurred during the cruise phase of the flight. Seventy (40 pilots; 30 passengers) of the 98 occupants died. The bodies of 68 victims were recovered; 63 were dead at the scene and 5 survived up to ten hours after impact. Multiple trauma killed about half of all the victims (n = 34); 29% (n = 20) drowned; 16% (n = 11) and 3% (n = 2) died of head/neck injuries and coronary disease respectively. Neck trauma was observed mostly in pilots and was the most frequent major blunt trauma injury in drowning victims. Passengers sustained relatively more craniofacial fractures and abdominal/retroperitoneal trauma. Pilot error was the most frequent cause of crashes (55%; 26/47 impacts) followed by mechanical failure (15%; 7/47) and adverse weather/environmental conditions (11%; 5/47). Coronary artery disease incapacitated two pilots (4% of crashes) and ethanol intoxication was implicated in two other accidents. Other drugs did not appear to be a definite factor in accident causation.
Studies of Techniques for Analysis of Photocopy Toners by IR
Authors: Merrill RA , Bartick EG , Mazzella WD
Published: August 2015

A study was undertaken to examine three measurement techniques for the analysis of photocopy toners by microscopical infrared spectrometry (IR) and to compare these techniques to studies previously done by Diffuse Reflectance (DR). Based on our preliminary studies, analysis of photocopy toners may be successfully performed by DR, microscopical Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) with a germanium Internal Reflection Element (IRE) or by microscopical Reflection-Absorption (R-A) techniques with a variety of reflecting media including mirrored slides, low emissivity glass, and aluminum foil. Selection of the analysis technique can be made based on equipment availability, budgetary constraints, ease of sample preparation, speed of analysis, and importance of the original photocopied document to determine if a mildly destructive technique can be used.
Gender Determination of Forensic Samples Using PCR Amplification of ZFX/ZFY Gene Sequences
Authors: Reynolds R , Varlaro J
Published: August 2015

Determining the gender of an evidentiary sample can be an important part of casework analyses. Gender information, particularly when combined with mitochondrial DNA analysis, can serve to distinguish biological evidence from two people who share the same DNA type(s) but differ by sex. When typing sexual assault evidence, gender information can serve as confirmation that the “sperm fraction” extracted from swabs and stains actually contains male DNA and also as an indicator of the amount of male DNA present in the non-sperm fraction. The PCR-based assay described here relies on amplification of a small, polymorphic region of a homologous zinc finger protein locus present on the X and Y chromosomes. The gender of the sample donor is determined from the PCR product either by Haelll restriction enzyme digestion followed by gel electrophoresis or by hybridization to immobilized sequence specific oligonucleotide probes (reverse dot blot). When using the reverse dot blot approach, amplification and typing of the gender PCR product can be coupled to amplification and typing of the AmpliType® HLA DQα and PM markers. Sensitivity and mixture studies were performed in addition to the analysis of casework bloodstains and sexual assault kit samples. Additional studies using this gender determination assay are described in the accompanying paper.
Sex Determination of Dried Blood Stains Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) with Homologous X-Y Primers of the Zinc Finger Protein Gene
Authors: Stacks B , Witte MM
Published: August 2015

The ability to “sex” unknown dried bloodstains is frequently of evidentiary value in forensic casework. Chelex-extracted DNA from 115 specimens (105 dried blood standards and 10 casework samples) was amplified for specific ZFX and ZFY regions of the X and Y chromosomes and subsequent restriction enzyme digestion. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) yielded a 209 base pair (bp) product containing a polymorphic position with a Y chromosome portion including an additional Hae III restriction site while the X chromosome portion contains only one. The digested PCR product was separated by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and detected by silver staining. Female samples exhibit bands of 172 bp and 37 bp only while male samples (XY) exhibit 2 additional bands appearing as an 88/84 bp doublet. Initially the 105 known bloodstains were typed according to the procedure discussed here and correct gender determination was achieved for all samples therefore establishing the reliability of this method. The 10 casework samples yielded the expected results as well. This assay demonstrates potential in both presumptive and confirmatory capacities.
Identification of a Killer by a Definitive Sneaker Pattern and His Beating Instruments by Their Distinctive Patterns
Authors: Zugibe FT , Costello J , Breithaupt M
Published: August 2015

A 39-year-old male service station attendant was found murdered on the floor of a gasoline service area by a passing motorist who had stopped for gas. The victim had been brutally beaten all over his entire body. After carefully examining the body and scene and taking selective photographs, special procedures were implemented in an attempt to preserve and transport the body without disturbing any items of evidence. In addition, specific evidentiary items were noted and collected for processing. The victim was meticulously examined externally at autopsy using a special protocol to locate clues that might assist in identifying a suspect or instrument of injury or death. Patterned impressions and subsequent DNA analysis proved successful in identifying the perpetrator of the crime and the instruments used in inflicting the beating.

It is the purpose of this paper to show how a meticulous examination of the body for the presence of patterned injuries and critical studies of these patterns and impressions led to the identification of a killer and the instruments he used in a brutal beating.
Fentanyl Patches Left on Dead Bodies—Potential Source of Drug for Abusers
Authors: Flannagan LM , Butts JD , Anderson WH
Published: August 2015

We report a fatal case of fentanyl poisoning in which the decedent apparently obtained the drug from a used transdermal patch removed from a deceased nursing home patient. Fentanyl drug patches, even those previously used, contain a potentially lethal amount of this potent narcotic analgesic and provide a source of fentanyl for drug abusers. This case demonstrates the importance of proper disposal of these drug patches and the need for strict policies and guidelines in patient care settings regarding their disposal. Since fentanyl derivatives may not be detected on routine toxicologic analysis, specific assays should be utilized for the detection of fentanyl in cases of suspected drug overdose.
A Review of: The Detection of Human Remains
Authors: Suchey JM
Published: August 2015

A number of well-publicized buried body cases (Cummins Prison Farm in Arkansas-1968; Texas Homosexual Murders of Dean Cor11-1973; and the John Wayne Gacy bodies under the house in Des Plains, Illinois-1978) have pointed to the need for organized efforts in fending and excavating buried human remains. Burial recovery should not be relegated to convicts or other untrained personnel but should be conducted scientifically by the forensic science team. The forensic anthropologist/archaeologist is a key member of this team. This is a theme of Edward W. Killam's reference book, The Detection of Human Remains, which provides a summary of the problems involved in the detection of buried bodies and describes the techniques which can be utilized for their recovery.
Notch signaling regulates gastric antral LGR5 stem cell function
Authors: Demitrack Elise S , Gifford Gail B , Keeley Theresa M , Carulli Alexis J , VanDussen Kelli L , Thomas Dafydd , Giordano Thomas J , Liu Zhenyi , Kopan Raphael , Samuelson Linda C
Published: August 2015

The major signaling pathways regulating gastric stem cells are unknown. Here we report that Notch signaling is essential for homeostasis of LGR5+ antral stem cells. Pathway inhibition reduced proliferation of gastric stem and progenitor cells, while activation increased proliferation. Notch dysregulation also altered differentiation, with inhibition inducing mucous and endocrine cell differentiation while activation reduced differentiation. Analysis of gastric organoids demonstrated that Notch signaling was intrinsic to the epithelium and regulated growth. Furthermore, in vivo Notch manipulation affected the efficiency of organoid initiation from glands and single Lgr5‐GFP stem cells, suggesting regulation of stem cell function. Strikingly, constitutive Notch activation in LGR5+ stem cells induced tissue expansion via antral gland fission. Lineage tracing using a multi‐colored reporter demonstrated that Notch‐activated stem cells rapidly generate monoclonal glands, suggesting a competitive advantage over unmanipulated stem cells. Notch activation was associated with increased mTOR signaling, and mTORC1 inhibition normalized NICD‐induced increases in proliferation and gland fission. Chronic Notch activation induced undifferentiated, hyper‐proliferative polyps, suggesting that aberrant activation of Notch in gastric stem cells may contribute to gastric tumorigenesis.
15 YEARS OF PARAGANGLIOMA: Pheochromocytoma, paraganglioma and genetic syndromes: a historical perspective
Authors: Else Tobias
Published: August 2015

The last decades have elucidated the genetic basis of pheochromocytoma (PC) and paraganglioma (PGL) (PCPGL)-associated hereditary syndromes. However, the history of these syndromes dates back at least another 150 years. Detailed descriptions by clinicians and pathologists in the 19th and 20th centuries led to the recognition of the PCPGL-associated syndromes von Hippel-Lindau disease, neurofibromatosis type 1, and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2. In the beginning of the current millennium the molecular basis of the hereditary PGL syndrome was elucidated by the discovery of mutations in genes encoding enzymes of the Krebs cycle, such as succinate dehydrogenase genes (SDHx) and other mutations, causing ‘pseudo-hypoxia’ signaling. These recent developments also marked a paradigm shift. It reversed the traditional order of genetic research that historically aimed to define the genetic basis of a known hereditary syndrome but now is challenged with defining the full clinical phenotype associated with a newly defined genetic basis. This challenge underscores the importance to learn from medical history, continue providing support for clinical research, and train physicians with regards to their skills to identify patients with PCPGL-associated syndromes to extend our knowledge of the associated phenotype. This historical overview provides details on the history of the paraganglial system and PCPGL-associated syndromes. As such, it hopefully will not only be an interesting reading for the physician with a historical interest but also emphasize the necessity of ongoing astute individual clinical observations and clinical registries to increase our knowledge regarding the full phenotypic spectrum of these conditions.
Cellular mechanisms of MR regulation of adipose tissue physiology and pathophysiology
Authors: Armani Andrea , Marzolla Vincenzo , Fabbri Andrea , Caprio Massimiliano
Published: August 2015

In addition to the well-documented expression and activity of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) in the kidney, in the last decade research on MR has also revealed its important role in regulating functions of extrarenal tissues, including adipose tissue, where MR is involved in adipocyte fundamental processes such as differentiation, autophagy and adipokine secretion. MR expression is increased in adipose tissue of murine models of obesity and in obese human subjects, suggesting that over-activation of the mineralocorticoid signaling leads to dysfunctional adipocyte and associated metabolic disorders. Notably, pharmacological blockade of MR prevents metabolic dysfunctions observed in obese mice and suggests a potential therapeutic use of MR antagonists in the treatment of obesity and metabolic syndrome. However, the molecular pathways affected by MR blockade have been poorly investigated. This review summarizes the functions of MR in the adipocyte, discusses potential signaling pathways mediating MR action, and describes post-translational modifications regulating its activity.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY AND CYTOTOXICITY EFFECTS OF SALVADORA PERSICA (MESWAK) EXTRACTS ON JURKAT T-CELLS
Authors: Sardari Farimah , Kazemi Arababadi Mohammad , Heiranizade Marjan , Mosadeghi Maryam
Published: August 2015

Salvadora persica (S. persica), Meswak, is an evergreen shrub to 6-7 m. It has many biological activities such as antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal activities. This study evaluated in vitro cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory effects of S. persica extracts on human oral Jurkat (T leukemia cells). Extracts from Meswak stick and leaves were tested in different concentrations for their cytotoxic and anti-inflammatory activities on human oral Jurkat T- cells. So treated cells viability with increasing concentrations of S. persica stick extract (0.008-0.2 μg/ml) and leaves extract (0.016-0.5 μg/ml) for 24, 48 or 72 hours was assessed by using the mitochondrial dependent reduction of yellow MTT (3-[4, 5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2, 5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) to purple formazan. Also Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was performed on supernatants from treated Jurkat T-cells with phytohemagglutinin (PHA) and both extracts to quantify IL-6, IL-8 pro-inflammatory cytokines. Statistically significant differences were indicated by p
THE USE OF ENZYMES FOR ETHANOL, METHANOL AND FORMALDEHYDE DETERMINATION IN FOOD PRODUCTS
Authors: Sibirnyj WÅadimir , Grabek-Lejko Dorota , Gonchar Mykhailo
Published: August 2015

There is a need for the development and the use of analytical methods for assaying ethanol, methanol and formaldehyde in foods. Ethanol is a major component of a variety of alcoholic beverages and is an ingredient of a number of foodstuffs. Formaldehyde and methanol are produced on the large scale, are very toxic and have mutagenic and carcinogenic action on living organisms. The presence of toxic methanol and formaldehyde in foods can lead to severe poisoning and even death. Many current methods for the determination of ethanol, methanol and formaldehyde are based on the use of enzymes. The article presents an overview of the classical enzymatic and biosensors’ methods for the analysis of these compounds.
IMPACT OF BACTERIAL QUORUM SENSING SYSTEM ON CHANGES OF ORGANOLEPTIC MARKERS OF STORAGE CABBAGE
Authors: Myszka Kamila , Olkowicz Mariola , Radziejewska-Kubzdela ElÅ¼bieta , K. Olejnik-Schmidt Agnieszka , Czaczyk Katarzyna
Published: August 2015

The regulation of phenotypes of vegetable-associated bacteria can be mediated through the production of acylated homoserine lactones (AHLs). This knowledge is essential for successful control of bacterial diseases of vegetable. The purpose of these investigations was to define the AHL patterns of gram-negative bacteria presented in storage cabbage by LC/MS technique. The phenomenon of regulating the pectinolytic activity and the exopolysaccharide (EPS) production by AHLs that are associated with microbial spoilage of cabbage was also examined. Among 100 strains isolated from storage cabbage, 47 isolates produced AHLs. The results of the 16S rDNA sequence analysis indicated that selected microflora was highly closely related to Pantoea agglomerans, Rahnella aquatilis, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Pseudomonas syringae, and Pseudomonas cedrina (approximately 98%-99% confidence). The chemical nature of AHLs produced by selected microflora differ from species to species. The pattern of AHLs of Ps. cedrina consisting of C8-HSL, 3-oxo-C10-HSL, and 3-hydroxy-C14-HSL, has not been previously reported. The present study demonstrates that bacterial spoilage of storage cabbage is influenced by quorum sensing. Application of furanone C-30 that acts as quorum sensing inhibitor, caused the significant reduction in the production of EPS and pectinolytic enzymes by examined bacteria.
SACCHAROTHRIX SP. ABH26, A NEW ACTINOBACTERIAL STRAIN FROM ALGERIAN SAHARAN SOIL: ISOLATION, IDENTIFICATION AND ANTIMICROBIAL ACTIVITY
Authors: Lahoum Abdelhadi , Bouras Noureddine , Bouznada Khaoula , D. Holtz Michael , Spröer Cathrin , Klenk Hans-Peter , Sabaou Nasserdine
Published: August 2015

A new strain of actinobacteria, designated ABH26, was isolated from a Saharan soil in the Adrar region (Algeria), by the dilution agar plating method using a chitin-vitamins B medium supplemented with polymyxin and penicillin. The morphological studies showed that this strain represents a member of the Saccharothrix genus. Phylogenetic analysis showed that this strain had 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities ranging from 97.63% (with Saccharothrix violaceirubra NBRC 102064T) to 99.86% (with Saccharothrix xinjiangensis NBRC 101911T). Furthermore, strain ABH26 presented a strong activity against mycotoxigenic and phytopathogenic fungi including Aspergillus carbonarius (M333), A. flavus (NRRL 3251), A. westerdijkiae (ATCC 3174), Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini (Fol) and F. solani (Fsol). Additionally, the strain exhibited an important antimicrobial activity against many strains of the pathogenic yeast Candida albicans (M2, M3 and IPA200) and against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA 639c). Thus, four solvents (n-hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate and n-butanol) were used for the extraction of produced antibiotic compounds. The highest antimicrobial activities were obtained using the butanolic extract. The thin layer chromatography (TLC) method showed two bioactive spots, named HAD1 and HAD2, which were reveled negatively by using chemical revelators (ninhydrin, naphtoresorcinol-sulfuric acid, ferrous iron chloride and formaldehyde-sulfuric). These results indicated the absence of amine group, sugar, hydroxamic acid, phenol and aromatic compound.
LIKE IT ACID AND POOR: A STUDY OF ABIOTIC FACTORS INFLUENCING Streptococcus bovis HC5 GROWTH AND BACTERIOCIN PRODUCTION
Authors: Andréa Teixeira Barbosa Ana , Cuquetto Mantovani HilÃ¡rio , Romaskevis Gomes Lopes DÃ©borah , Freitas Santana Henrique
Published: August 2015

This study aimed to investigate the effect of pH, temperature, growth atmosphere and nutrient availability on bovicin HC5 production by Streptococcus bovis HC5. S. bovis HC5 grew well in complex and basal media under aerobic and anaerobic conditions, but greater bacteriocin yields were recovered from anaerobic cultures. Lactate production and glucose consumption increased if S. bovis HC5 cells were cultivated at pH 7.0 and at 45 ºC, but higher bovicin HC5 activity was recovered from cells grown in acidic conditions and at lower temperatures (39 ºC). Cultures maintained under continuous CO2 flow showed faster growth rates in basal media, but bacteriocin production was always higher if S. bovis was cultivated in anaerobic sealed tubes. These results suggest that acidic pH and anoxic conditions favor bovicin HC5 production by S. bovis HC5. S. bovis HC5 is a unique lactic acid bacterium in its ability to grow and produce high amounts of a potentially useful bacteriocin in simple media. Considering the constrains for bacteriocin production at commercial scale, it appears that bovicin HC5 production could be achieved at lower costs compared to other bacteriocins from lactic acid bacteria.
EFFECT OF EXOGENOUS ABSCISIC ACID ON GROWTH AND BIOCHEMICAL CHANGES IN THE HALOPHYTE SUAEDA MARITIMA
Authors: G. Anbarasi , G. Bhagavathi , R. Vignesh , M. Srinivasan , S.T. Somasundaram
Published: August 2015

Different types of phytohormones are being extensively used to alleviate the adverse effect of salinity stress on plant growth. Among those, Abscisic acid (ABA) is a plant stress hormone and one of the most important signaling molecules in plants. Drought and salinity activate De-novo abscisic acid synthesis prevent further water loss by evaporation through stomata, mediated by changes in the guard cell turgor pressure. Under osmotic stress abscisic acid induce the accumulation of protein involved in the biosynthesis of osmolites which increasing the stress tolerance of plant. In addition, exogenous application of ABA enhances the tolerance of plants or plant cells to cold, heat, drought, anoxia and heavy metal stresses. This study was carried out to study the exogenous abscisic (ABA) acid induced regulatory role on the growth, water content, protein content, chlorophyll content, osmolyte accumulation and protein profiling through SDS PAGE in a halophyte, Suaeda maritima. The osmolyte accumulation of proline and glycine betaine was found to be more in 50 µM ABA concentrations. The protein profiling through SDS PAGE revealed that ̴ 66KDa proteins was not expressed in the control plant and in 10μM ABA treated plants. Interestingly, the ABA treatment induced a new protein of 14.2KDa in 10μM concentration. The ABA treated plants with concentrations 50μM, 100μM and 150μM showed changes in the expression of protein in abundance than the control and 10μM ABA treated plants. The findings in this study indicate that among all the concentrations, 50μM ABA concentration treated plants exhibited higher growth rate.
PRESERVATIVE POTENTIAL OF PURIFIED BACTERIOCIN PRODUCED FROM BREVIBACILLUS BORSTELENSIS AG1 ISOLATED FROM MARCHA – A TRADITIONAL WINE STARTER CULTURE CAKE IN TOMATO PASTE
Authors: Gupta Anupama , Sharma Nivedita , Gautam Neha
Published: August 2015

Purified bacteriocin produced from Brevibacillus borstelensis AG1 isolated from Marcha a local wine starter herbal cake, was used to enhance the shelf life of tomato paste. Preservative effect of purified bacteriocin was studied for nine days in tomato paste inoculated with food borne pathogens and was compared to commercial biopreservative – nisin and chemical preservative – sodium benzoate. The indicator strains i.e. Listeria monocytogenes MTCC839, Bacillus subtilis CRI and Clostridium perfringens MTCC1739 were used at the amount 8.16, 8.13 and 8.18 log CFU/ml. Viable cells were counted periodically and a consistent reduction in number of viable cells of each tested pathogen was observed. It was found antagonistic against L. monocytogenes MTCC839, B. subtilis CRI and C. perfringes MTCC1739 which are the most challengeable and food borne pathogens found in processed vegetables products. Purified bacteriocin was found active over a wide pH range i.e. 3.0 to 11.0 and was able to withstand temperature up to 100oC. It showed a better preservative potential by reducing pathogenic load of the tested strains (by 2.02, 2.05 and 2.02 log cycles (CFU/ml) of L. monocytogenes MTCC839, B. subtilis CRI and C. perfringes MTCC1739, respectively) in tomato paste as compared to control (without bacteriocin). This proves efficiency of bacteriocin produced by B. borstelensis AG1 as biopreservative to enhance the safety and shelf life of acidic foods.
OPTIMIZATION OF VEGETABLE WASTES FOR LACTIC ACID PRODUCTION: A LABORATORY SCALE APPROACH
Authors: Daharbha Sailaja , S. Mishra Mohit , K. Meena Rakesh , Meghanani Roshini , Shukla2 Prashant
Published: August 2015

Vegetables wastes are organic materials which are not utilized as vegetables and are discarded at all stages of production, processing and marketing. These wastes form a major part of municipal solid wastes and are cause of foul smell and growth of microorganisms due to their high organic contents. The vegetable wastes can be utilized in many different ways to produces different products. We have shown that they can be utilized for production of lactic acid using anaerobic digestion. The 2nd day was the optimum day for recovery of lactic acid while 1:1 ratio of slurry and water was found to the best ratio for production of lactic acid from vegetable wastes. Effect of salts on lactic acid was also studied and it was found that the production decreased in all the concentrations of salts.
A REVIEW ON BIODEGRADABLE STARCH BASED FILM
Authors: Molavi Hooman , Behfar Somayyeh , Ali Shariati Mohammad , Kaviani Mehdi , Atarod Shirin
Published: August 2015

In recent years, biodegradable edible films have become very important in research related to food, due to their compatibility with the environment and their use in the food packaging industry. Various sources can be used in the production of biopolymers as biodegradable films that include polysaccharides, proteins and lipids. Among the various polysaccharides, starch due to its low price and its abundance in nature is of significant importance. Several factors affect the properties of starch films; such as the source which starch is obtained from, as well as the ratio of constituents of the starch. Starch films have advantages such as low thickness, flexibility and transparency though; there are some downsides to mention, such as the poor mechanical properties and water vapor permeability. Thus, using starch alone to produce the film will led to restrictions on its use. To improve the mechanical properties of starch films and also increases resistance against humidity, several methods can be used; including the starch modifying techniques such as cross linking of starch and combining starch with other natural polymers. Other methods such as the use of lipid in formulations of films to increase the resistance to moisture are possible, but lipids are susceptible to oxidation. Therefore, new approaches are based on the integration of different biopolymers in food packaging.
EFFECT OF TWO TAPERING METHODS ON INTERLEUKIN-6, CORTISOL AND PERFORMANCE IN ELITE MALE WRESTLER
Authors: Mehranpour A.B. , Supaporn S. , Hasani S.H. , Witid M.
Published: August 2015

Purpose : This study examined that effect of two types of tapering on interleukin-6(IL-6), cortisol and performance in elite male wrestler. Material : After 4 weeks of progressive training, wrestlers were randomly divided into three equal groups, 1-control group (N=10) continued performing progressive training for one week, 2-taper group 1 (N=10) continued with a 50% reduction in training volume for one week, 3-taper group 2 (N=10) continued with a 75% reduction in volume of training for one week .plasma blood IL-6 and cortisol levels were assayed from analysis obtained via standard ELISA. Also general strength of muscles was recorded as a performance test. All data were collected before and after progressive training and also after one week of tapering period. Results : There were significant reduction of IL-6 and cortisol levels in both tapering group comparing with control group (P≤0.05).There was significant reduction of IL-6 and cortisol levels among tapering 50% and tapering 75% after tapering period (P≤0.05). Also there was significant increase of general strength of muscles between tapering 75% and control group (P≤0.05). Conclusion : hence, one week tapering with 75% reduction in training volume after progressive training while the intensity kept high is effective strategy for reduction of IL-6, and cortisol levels and also increase performance. It seems that higher reduction of training volume when the intensity kept high is a good strategy for wrestler before main competition.
O velho, de partida
Authors: Lyon Sandra
Published: August 2015

.
Ronda
Authors: Silva Maria das Graças
Published: August 2015

.
Perspectiva sobre o dentro de um retrato
Authors: Reis Adão Ventura Ferreira
Published: August 2015

.
Poema da inútil utilização
Authors: Rocha Maria Auxiliadora
Published: August 2015

.
Cisne
Authors: Carvalho Ana Cecília
Published: August 2015

.
Fase I
Authors: Costa Maria Alice Martins Alves
Published: August 2015

.
A heresia
Authors: Carvalho Walden Camilo De
Published: August 2015

.