bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Estimating Blood Loss: Comparative Study of the Accuracy of Parents and Health Care Professionals
Authors: Tebruegge Marc , Misra Indranil , Pantazidou Anastasia , Padhye Amruta , Maity Sarmistha , Dwarakanathan Buvana , Donath Susan , Curtis Nigel , Nerminathan Veerasingham 
Published: September 2009

OBJECTIVE: Hematemesis and hematochezia are not uncommon presenting complaints in children. The amount of blood loss reported by the parent is likely to influence the pediatrician's decision regarding investigations and management. Currently, there are only very limited data regarding the ability of laypersons to estimate blood losses visually. This study investigated the accuracy of parents, in comparison to pediatric health care professionals, in estimating blood loss volumes.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: We performed a prospective, single-blinded study including 227 participants, comprising 131 parents, 58 nurses, and 38 doctors. Participants visually estimated the volume of 1 randomly allocated sample from each of the 2 categories: (1) 1, 5, or 10 mL of artificial blood applied to a diaper (simulated hematochezia) and (2) 5, 10, or 50 mL placed in a kidney-dish (simulated hematemesis). An “error factor” (=, estimated volume/actual volume shown) was used to facilitate comparisons.
RESULTS: Parents provided the most inaccurate estimates overall, although individual accuracy varied considerably. The largest overestimate (518 mL) and the highest error factor (23.4) were recorded in a parent; overall, 71% of the estimates provided by parents were overestimates. The highest proportion of accurate estimates (±50% of actual volume) was recorded by nurses (29%). Doctors had a tendency to underestimate volumes (62% of the estimates were less than half the actual volume). However, there was no statistically significant difference between the performance of nurses and doctors. Health care professionals tended to overestimate small volumes and underestimate large volumes. Professional experience had no relevant impact on accuracy, nor did parental gender or age.
CONCLUSIONS: Visual estimation of blood losses is highly inaccurate, both by laypersons and by health care professionals. Physicians should, therefore, base management decisions primarily on clinical findings and not overly rely on the history provided, or their own estimates.
An Attempt to Improve the Quantitative Epitope Prediction by Modelling Alternative Binding Modes
Authors: Filippo Aluffi-Pentini , aleria De VFonzo , Valerio Parisi 
Published: September 2009

Motivation:
A good quantitative epitope prediction, i.e. a reliable prediction of the strength of the MHC-epitope binding, is decisive in order to better understand the immune system response. The prediction is often performed by means of the scoring-matrix method that usually assumes a single binding configuration: each amino acid of the epitope binds to a specific pocket of the MHC molecule, in a way independent from other bindings.

Results:
We have put forward the assumption, suggested by the allosteric Monod framework, that a number of alternative states exist, each one characterised by an interaction energy expressed by a scoring matrix. We have developed and suitably evaluated an algorithm for epitope prediction based on such assumption, and we finally discuss the results and the possible reasons why such results unexpectedly appear to be unsatisfactory.
Surgical management of prostate cancer metastatic to the spine
Authors: Williams Brian J. , Fox Benjamin D. , Sciubba Daniel M. , Suki Dima , Tu Shi Ming , Kuban Deborah , Gokaslan Ziya L. , Rhines Laurence D. , Rao Ganesh 
Published: September 2009

Object
Significant improvements in neurological function and pain relief are the benefits of aggressive surgical management of spinal metastatic disease. However, there is limited literature regarding the management of tumors with specific histological features. In this study, a series of patients undergoing spinal surgery for metastatic prostate cancer were reviewed to identify predictors of survival and functional outcome.

Methods
The authors retrospectively reviewed the records of all patients who were treated with surgery for prostate cancer metastases to the spine between 1993 and 2005 at a single institution. Particular attention was given to initial presentation, operative management, clinical and neurological outcomes, and factors associated with complications and overall survival.

Results
Forty-four patients underwent a total of 47 procedures. The median age at spinal metastasis was 66 years (range 50–84 years). Twenty-four patients had received previous external-beam radiation to the site of spinal involvement, with a median dose of 70 Gy (range 30–74 Gy). Frankel scores on discharge were significantly improved when compared with preoperative scores (p = 0.001). Preoperatively, 32 patients (73%) were walking and 33 (75%) were continent. On discharge, 36 (86%) of 42 patients were walking, and 37 (88%) of 42 were continent. Preoperatively, 40 patients (91%) were taking narcotics, with a median morphine equivalent dose of 21.5 mg/day, and 28 patients (64%) were taking steroids, with a median dose of 16 mg/day. At discharge, the median postoperative morphine equivalent dose was 12 mg/day, and the median steroid dose was 0 mg/day (p < 0.001). Complications occurred in 15 (32%) of 47 procedures, with 9 (19%) considered major, and there were 4 deaths within 30 days of surgery. The median overall survival was 5.4 months. Gleason score (p = 0.002), total number of metastases (p = 0.001), and the degree of spinal canal compression (p = 0.001) were independent predictors of survival. Age ≥ 65 years at the time of surgery was an independent predictor of a postoperative complication (p = 0.005).

Conclusions
In selected patients with prostate cancer metastases to the spine, aggressive surgical decompression and spinal reconstruction is a useful treatment option. The results show that on average, neurological outcome is improved and use of analgesics is reduced. Gleason score, metastatic burden, and degree of spinal canal compression may be associated with survival following surgery, and thus should be considered carefully prior to opting for surgical management.
Anti-Bovine Viral Diarrhoea Virus and Hepatitis C Virus Activity of the Cyclooxygenase Inhibitor SC-560
Authors: Okamoto Mika , Sakai Masashi , Goto Yukinori , Salim Mohammed TA , Baba Chiaki , Goto Kaku , Watashi Koichi , Shimotohno Kunitada , Baba Masanori 
Published: September 2009

Background: A number of compounds were examined for their inhibitory effect on bovine viral diarrhoea virus (BVDV) replication in cell cultures and found that some cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors had antiviral activity against the virus. Methods: Determination of compounds for their anti-BVDV activity was on the basis of the inhibition of virus-induced cytopathogenicity in Mardin–Darby bovine kidney (MDBK) cells. Anti-hepatitis C virus (HCV) activity was assessed by the inhibition of viral RNA synthesis in the subgenomic HCV RNA replicon cells. Results: Among the test compounds, 5-(4-chlorophenyl)-1-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3-(trifluoromethyl)-1 H-pyrazole (SC-560) was the most active against BVDV, and its 50% effective and cytotoxic concentrations were 10.9 ±2.8 and 93.9 ±24.5 μM in virus and mock-infected MDBK cells, respectively. The compound also suppressed BVDV RNA synthesis in a dose-dependent fashion. Studies on the mechanism of action revealed that SC-560 did not interfere with viral entry to the host cells. Furthermore, it was assumed that the antiviral activity of SC-560 was not associated with its inhibitory effect on COX. The combination of SC-560 and interferon-α was additive to synergistic in inhibiting BVDV replication. More importantly, the compound proved to be a selective inhibitor of HCV replication. Conclusions: SC-560 and its derivative might have potential as novel antiviral agents against HCV.
Fluorescent Whitening Agents
Authors: McElhone Harold J. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe absorption of short‐wavelength light (violet to blue) results in a yellow cast to fabrics. Fluorescent whitening agents (FWAs) absorb the invisible uv portion of the daylight spectrum and convert this energy in to the longer wavelength visible portion of the spectrum, ie, blue to blue‐violet light. Tthis can be used to replace the the light lost through absorption, thereby attaining a neutral, complete white. FWAS are dyes and the types used are stilbene derivatives, distyrylbenzenes, distyrylbiphenyls, divinylstilbenes,benzoxoazoles, pyrazolines, coumarins, benzimidazoles, and naphthalimides Intially FWAs were used exclusively in textile finisihing. The detergent and paper industries followed. The major uses at present are for the detergent industry (40%), paper industry (30%), textiles (25%), and synthetic fiber and plastics (5%).
Hair Preparations
Authors: Pohl Stanley , Varco Joseph , Wallace Paul , Wolfram Leszek J. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractHair products are normally cosmetics and are, thus, subject to all laws and regulations that control the labeling and claims of all cosmetic products. There are some variations, namely hair colorants, professional use products, and products that make drug claims. Shampoo is the largest segment of the market. The primary purpose of shampoo is to clean hair and scalp from various soils. Synthetic detergents are the backbone of shampoos. The manufacture of shampoo is quite easy requiring only a suitable kettle, heating and cooling capabilities, and a mixer. Hair conditioners are rinses, hair dressing, and intensive treatments. Conditioners provide different effects to the hair and make combing easier. Finishing sprays and fixatives help style the hair. Colorants are divided into temporary, semipermanent and permanent systems. Toxicological data is of primary importance. In the U.S. the classification of color additives is complex. Waving and straightening products are also discussed. Cosmetic products in the United States are regulated by the FDA. If a cosmetic is intended to treat a disease or affect the function of the body, it is considered a drug.
Insulation, Electric
Authors: Moscovich Armand 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Insulated wire and cables represent a significant industry. The largest segments of various types and designs are building wires, electronic and data communication wires, power cables, fiber optics, automotive wires, magnet and transformer wires, and specialty wires. Power cables have the most complicated design. Depending on the voltage used, power cables can contain many layers. The electrical properties of most concern to insulation are dielectric strength, electrical resistance, dielectric constant, power factor, and corona resistance. In power cables, electrical and water treeing characteristics influence lifetimes, especially under high voltage and wet conditions In coaxial data communication wires, the dielectric constant determines the quality of the signal. Typical materials used in various wires and cables are polyethylene, polypropylene, silicone rubber, ethylene‐propylene rubber, poly(vinyl chloride), and fluoroplastics.
Niobium and Niobium Compounds
Authors: Schlewitz James E. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractNiobium, also know as columbium, is used primarily as an alloy addition to steel. Ferroniobium and nickel‐niobium are the most frequently used alloys. Niobium is also vital to the formation of superalloys, and its compounds find use in nuclear fuel rods, optical glass, as ferroelectrics, semiconductors, and in superconducting material. Of primary interest is the stability of niobium metals and its alloys to corrosion. The occurrence, extraction, refining and metallurgy of niobium are described. The analytical procedures for determination of niobium and its impurities are discussed. The primary niobium compounds which range from the refractory borides and carbides through ferroelectric salts of niobic acid are discussed.
Waterproofing and Water and Oil Repellency
Authors: Howells Richard D. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThe measurement of contact angles is a convenient means for judging the degree of wetting or repellency for a liquid on a planar solid surface. A number of methods have been developed for estimating advancing contact angles of liquids in surfaces,. A repellent material functions by lowering the surface energy to a value such that the liquid now has a higher advancing contact angle on the surface.There are six classes of repellents textile finishes; fluorochemicals; silicones; resin‐based finishes; waxes and wax‐metal emulsions; and organometallic complexes. Fabric construction affects the performance of the water repellent. Waterproof/breathable fabrics are usually natural or synthetic fabrics that are laminated or coated in some sort of waterproof material. Leather is treated to make the surface water repellent, without reducing permeability to water vapor. Sizing agents are used to treat paper. Water resistance is an important factor in concrete and masonry construction for safety, health, and comfort of a building's occupants. Wood is subject to water infiltration by both liquids and vapors. After‐market repellents that are applied after wood structures are built, are readily available.
Demonstrative Evidence
Authors: Moenssens Andre 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
Most expert witnesses have occasion to use demonstrative evidence, which is not to be considered substantive proof of a fact, but is used solely to supplement, explain, or clarify the witness's testimony. Many do not understand exactly what the legal definition of demonstrative evidence is. This article categorizes the various items that fall into what courts call demonstrative evidence. It also touches on the circumstances under which its court use is permitted. In that regard it is important to stress that judges possess considerable discretion in making the decision whether to admit what they consider to be demonstrative evidence.
Direct Examination of Experts
Authors: Moenssens Andre 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
When a witness is summoned to court to testify, he will first be questioned by the litigant who has either asked for the evidence or compelled that it be given through the subpoena process. The manner in which expert testimony is elicited at the outset of his appearance in court is called the direct examination. This article explains the purposes to be served during direct examination, the scope of the proffered testimony, and the manner in which the typical direct examination proceeds.
Discovery in the
U
nited
S
tates: Criminal Cases
Authors: Moenssens Andre 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The disclosure of expert findings to opposing parties in criminal litigation in the United States is governed by a mix of constitutional requirements, superimposed on local rules by the US Supreme Court, as well as by state and federal statutes that differ from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. This article sets out some of the principal requirements for both prosecutors and defense attorneys in criminal cases.
G

eneral

E

lectric v.

J

oiner
Authors: Smith Ann C. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract

The decision of theUnited States Supreme Court in 1997 in the case of
General Electric v. Joiner
—hereinafter
Joiner
—is the first decision of that tribunal in which it clarified its 1993
Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals
holding that revolutionized admissibility standards for expert opinion testimony. The
Joiner
decision may be cited by referring to any of the following law reports: 522 U.S. 136, 118S.Ct. 512, or 139 L.Ed.2d 508 (1007).

The
Joiner
opinion has less of a direct impact on forensic expert practices than other court decisions. It clarified a vexing legal question left in the wake of
Daubert
on the division of responsibilities between trial and appellate judges in evaluating the relevance and reliability of scientific evidence. The Court held that the “abuse of discretion” standard was to be applied when an appeals court reviewed a trial court's decision to exclude expert opinion evidence.
Daubert
itself had not addressed that issue.

In the process of developing its reasoning, however, the courts use language that is of particular importance to forensic experts. It relates directly to how the courts can evaluate the worth of expert opinions when the expert's sole word (“ipse dixit”) is the justification offered for its purported reliability or relevance to the disputed facts. In this article, a brief description will be given of portions of the opinion relevant to forensic practices.
Report Writing for Courts
Authors: Wheate Rhonda M. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The process of writing an expert report which will be used in legal proceedings requires an appreciation of the underlying conceptual requirements of an expert examination or assessment, in addition to the legal requirements that govern the role of an expert witness. This article examines the conceptual issues and broadly outlines the legal elements, which are required of expert witness reports in most common law jurisdictions.
Blunt Force Trauma
Authors: Pollak Stefan , Saukko Pekka J. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractBlunt injuries are caused by mechanical force resulting in damage to the affected tissues mainly due to compression, traction, torsion, and shear stresses. The impact is induced either by a moving blunt object hitting the body or the victim's movement against an obstacle having a hard surface.In forensic practice, injuries from blunt force are often seen after criminal assaults where they may be inflicted, for instance, by fist blows or kicking. They not only occur in physical child abuse and other kinds of domestic violence, in traffic, sports, and industrial accidents but also in falls brought about by the victims themselves for various reasons (e.g., in drunken, infirm, or sick persons or in suicides jumping from a height).On skin, blunt traumatization produces abrasions, contusions (bruises), and lacerations. In some cases, a patterned configuration helps to determine characteristic features of the causative instrument. Within the body, blunt traumatization may be followed by bone fractures and laceration/rupture of vessels and organs with concomitant blood loss and potential failure of vital functions. The article shortly describes and illustrates the most important manifestations of blunt force injuries (including head trauma) under reconstructive aspects and from the medicolegal point of view.
Gunshot Wounds
Authors: Pollak Stefan , Saukko Pekka J. 
Published: September 2009

AbstractThis article on gunshot wounds deals with the medicolegal aspects of fatalities from firearm injuries with special emphasis on the morphological findings and their correct interpretation. For a better understanding of ballistic trauma, first, a short survey of weapon types and ammunition is given. Another section covers the interaction between the projectile and the human body and topics related to wound ballistics (stopping power, ability to act, causes of death). A major part of the article addresses the characteristics of bullet entrance/exit wounds and the classification of gunshot wounds according to the range of fire (contact shots, close‐/intermediate‐range shots, distant shots). Apart from rifled firearm injuries, wounds from shotguns, livestock stunners, blank‐cartridge guns, and explosives are also described. With respect to the criminalistic implications of firearm injuries, the principles of medicolegal documentation and the main criteria for differentiating between suicide and homicide are also discussed. Numerous photographs from the forensic autopsy material are included in order to give an overview of the great variability of firearm injuries.
Death: Time of
Authors: Madea Burkhard 
Published: September 2009

AbstractLivor Mortis and Rigor Mortis are not only classical signs of death but together with supravital reactions, for instance muscular excitability and post‐mortem body cooling, they can be used for determining the time since death. The underlying principles of Livor Mortis and Rigor Mortis as well as body cooling and supravital reactions will be outlined and the practical application for the estimation of the time since death will be addressed. Especially on body cooling extensive experimental investigations have been carried out and the mathematical description of the sigmoidal shape of body cooling led to the construction of a nomogram which is the best investigated method of estimating the time since death in the early post‐mortem period.
Anthropology
Authors: Randolph‐Quinney Patrick , Mallett Xanthé , Black Sue 
Published: September 2009

AbstractForensic anthropology can be described as the analysis of human remains for the medicolegal purpose of establishing identity. It is a multidisciplinary endeavor that applies the knowledge of biological anthropology and human osteology to cases where human remains are skeletonized, or where a detailed understanding of the growth and development, morphology, or norms of the human body can assist other disciplines in positive identification. This is achieved through the use of osteobiographical markers, which aid in the determination of four primary characteristics: skeletal age, sex, ancestry, and living stature. These are supplemented by markers of personal identity, which are likely to be specific to an individual, or that may be determined so with varying degrees of statistical certainty. Such markers include both soft and hard tissue traits, some of which are biologically normal but specific to an individual, whereas others are pathological or abnormal, arising as the result of disease, trauma, surgical intervention, or cosmetic/aesthetic alteration.
Environmental Science
Authors: Cross Douglas W. 
Published: September 2009

Abstract
The demand for expertise in forensic ecology is expanding as environmental legislation proliferates. Many regulatory authorities have failed to keep pace, leading to weaknesses in enforcement that need to be addressed by increased professional training. Consequently, forensic expertise is in demand by defendants in criminal cases where public sector prosecutions alleging environmental pollution rely on inadequate or inadmissible evidence. Ecologists are also active in auditing compliance of projects and programs with local, national, and international legal frameworks, and play a central role in ensuring that the codes of practice of international lenders are enforced and liability avoided. In this field, circumstantial evidence, often with relatively poor provenance, is used to develop data salvage programs that generate a contextual understanding of an incident, with an emphasis on ecological processes. Where corrupt organizations oppose evidence collection by professionals, communities may employ unorthodox techniques such as community epidemiology to collect and collate data and pressurize the authorities by disseminating the results through the media. Such methods have resulted in dramatic successes in exposing serious toxicological damage within communities, especially in the face of political subversion of more conventional techniques of forensic evidence collection.