bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Mixed-Drug Intoxication Involving Venlafaxine and Verapamil
Authors: Kunsman GW , Kunsman CM , Presses CL , Garavaglia JC , Farley NJ
Published: August 2015

This case report describes the suicide of a 52-year-old woman whose cause of death was attributed to a mixed-drug intoxication involving venlafaxine and verapamil. Venlafaxine is prescribed for the treatment of depression and should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker primarily used for treatment of cardiovascular disorders. The following drug concentrations were determined in postmortem fluids: verapamil—3.5 mg/L (femoral blood), 9.4 mg/L (subclavian blood), and 1.0 mg/L (vitreous fluid); norverapamil—1.0 mg/L (femoral blood), 2.1 mg/L (subclavian blood), and 0.20 mg/L (vitreous fluid); verapamil and norverapamil could not be detected in bile or urine due to the high levels of erythromycin present; venlafaxine—6.2 mg/L (femoral blood), 8.6 mg/L (subclavian blood), 5.3 mg/L (vitreous fluid), 54.0 mg/L (bile), and 72.3 mg/L (urine); and O-desmethylvenlafaxine—5.4 mg/L (femoral blood), 8.3 mg/L (subclavian blood), positive (vitreous fluid), 29.2 mg/L (bile), and 9.5 mg/L (urine). The cause of death was determined to be a mixed-drug intoxication resulting from an overdose of verapamil and venlafaxine. The manner of death was determined to be suicide.
Development of the X-Linked Tetrameric Microsatellite Marker DXS9898 for Forensic Purposes
Authors: Hering S , Szibor R
Published: August 2015

HumDXS9898 also known as CHLC·GATA 126G01 is a tetrameric microsatellite marker located at the Xq21.33 pericentromeric region. In kinship testing HumDXS9898 is suitable for concomitant use with HumHPRTB and HumDXS6807 which are separated from HumDXS9898 by genetic map distance of 150 and 80 cM, respectively. HumDXS9898 is closely linked to HumARA. In the German population, HumDXS9898 exhibits seven clearly distinguishable alleles ranging from 189 to 214 basepairs in size. Deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium could not be detected. The observed heterozygosity was 0.75 for females and the mean exclusion probability was 0.73 for female children. Mutations were not found in the present material.
Allele Frequency Distributions for Twelve STR Loci in a Brazilian Population
Authors: Barros de Castro IA , Rinzler CMC , Rumjanek FD
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequency Distributions for Twelve STR Loci in a Brazilian Population
HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Locus Allele Frequencies for Elazig/Turkey
Authors: Ergin Dulger H , Tokdemir M
Published: August 2015

HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Locus Allele Frequencies for Elazig/Turkey
Distribution of HumvWA31, HumFESFPS, HumTH01, HumTPOX, HumCD4, HumCSF1PO Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Di Nunno N , Baldassarra SL , Carbonara M , Guanti G , Resta N , Viola L , Di Nunno C
Published: August 2015

Distribution of HumvWA31, HumFESFPS, HumTH01, HumTPOX, HumCD4, HumCSF1PO Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Distribution of D1S80 and HLA-DQA1 Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Di Nunno N , Baldassarra SL , Carbonara M , Viola L , Mangiatordi S , Nunno CD
Published: August 2015

Distribution of D1S80 and HLA-DQA1 Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Allele Frequencies for the COFILER STR Loci in the Canadian Caucasian and Canadian First Nations Populations
Authors: Borys S , Vanstone H , Carmody G , Fourney R
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequencies for the COFILER STR Loci in the Canadian Caucasian and Canadian First Nations Populations
Review of: Hunting Serial Predators
Authors: Uzych L
Published: August 2015

Violent criminals, lamentably, do not suffer from a shortage of numbers. Well-crafted research tools which may assist investigators in their unrelenting efforts to ensnare serial predators constitute an invaluable commodity. In his meticulously-researched book, Hunting Serial Predators, Dr. Grover Godwin proffers an expertly critical analysis of the extant academic literature appertaining to serial murder, and further introduces analytical research tools which may potentially enable police investigators to more effectually classify serial predators.
Review of: Undercover, Second Edition
Authors: Uzych L
Published: August 2015

Undercover work is like a drama with three main actors: informant, suspect, and undercover agent. The second edition of Undercover, by Carmine Motto and Dale June, in a street smart and refreshingly candid manner, focuses close attention on the respective roles of these main characters in the undercover theater. Drawing on their prolific, professional experiences in undercover work, and law enforcement generally, and extensively using actual case examples, the co-authors strip away the husk and unabashedly and palpably reveal the kernel of a sordid world of counterfeiters, forgers, underworld figures, and assorted types of hoodlums involved in some criminal way with contraband.
A Review of The Ghosts of Hopewell
Authors: Doud D
Published: August 2015

The Ghosts of Hopewell by Jim Fisher is an excellent sequel to his earlier book, The Lindbergh Case which covered the events of the Hauptmann-Lindbergh case from the kidnapping of the Lindbergh baby, through the lengthy investigation and trial, to Hauptmann's execution for the crime in 1936.
Richard rosner Awards for the Best Papers by fellows in Forensic Psychiatry or Forensic Psychology
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

February 1999 marked the tenth anniversary of the annual competition for the Best Paper by a Fellow in Forensic Psychiatry or Forensic Psychology. The purpose of the Award is both to encourage and reward research by Fellows in Forensic Psychiatry and Forensic Psychology. In recognition of its importance, the AAFS Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Section voted to name the award in honor of its originator.
Consecutive Matching Striation Criteria: A General Critique
Authors: Bunch SG
Published: August 2015

In the forensic science of firearms and toolmark identification, examiners traditionally have drawn conclusions of identity from subjective criteria. This paper critically explores the general validity of one proposed objective-criteria regime—that of counting consecutive matching striations on fired bullets. Practical considerations are discussed, as well as theoretical ones, with both discussions viewed from the perspective of Bayesian logic. It is concluded that drawbacks exist for this particular objective-criteria regime, but that research and logical analysis should continue.
Identification of Heroin in Street Doses Using 1D-TOCSY Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Suryaprakash N , Azoury M , Goren Z , Jelinek R
Published: August 2015

Heroin street doses are complex mixtures commonly analyzed in forensic laboratories. Identification of the illicit substance in these street doses is among the primary analytical tasks of a forensic laboratory. We demonstrate that the one-dimensional 1D-TOCSY NMR experiment permits identification of heroin in standard mixtures containing up to ten or more different components. This method produces an easily-identified and effective “fingerprint” for heroin within a mixture of other substances. The method has been successfully tested as a tool for identification of heroin in street doses from police casework in Israel. This NMR technique is robust and quick (a measurement can be carried out in 10–15 min), and it does not require any preliminary physical or chemical treatments of the sample to be examined, due to the effective spectroscopic “filtering” of the interfering components. The 1D-TOCSY NMR method can potentially be used in combination with additional analytical methods as a routine tool in forensic laboratories to positively identify heroin for court purposes.
The Petroleum-Laced Background
Authors: Lentini JJ , Dolan JA , Cherry C
Published: August 2015

Using passive headspace concentration (ASTM E-1412) and gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) analysis as described in ASTM E-1618, the authors have studied the volatile components detectable in several kinds of otherwise uncontaminated substrata, including clothing, shoes, household products, building materials, paper products, cardboard, and adhesives. Due to the use of petroleum-derived liquids in the manufacture of these materials, it is frequently possible to detect the liquids, even when the products are several years old. These results point out the need for the use of comparison samples whenever possible.
A Novel Method for Forensic DNA Investigations: Repeat- Type Sequence Analysis of Tandemly Repeated mtDNA in Domestic Dogs
Authors: Savolainen P , Arvestad L , Lundberg J
Published: August 2015

A highly variable and heteroplasmic tandem repeat region situated in the mitochondrial mt DNA control region (CR) in domestic dogs and wolves was studied to evaluate its suitability as a forensic genetic marker for analysis of single hairs. The tandem repeat array is composed of three 10-bp repeat types that the distributed so that a secondary DNA sequence is formed. Thus, the region presents two levels of variation: variation in the number of repeats and variation in the secondary DNA sequence of repeat types. Two analysis methods were therefore tested; fragment length analysis and analysis of the sequence of repeat types. Fragment analysis produced unique profiles that could be used to discriminate between blood samples from maternally closely related individuals. However, different hairs from one individual did not have the same fragment profile, and the method is, therefore, not suitable for analysis of single hairs. In contrast, analysis of the repeat type sequences (array types) is highly informative. When different hairs from one individual were studied, identical array types were found. The repeat-type sequence variation was studied among individuals having identical nonrepetitive CR mtDNA sequence variants. Seven, six, and two individuals, representing three different sequence variants, respectively, were analyzed. All these individuals had different array types, which implies a very high genetic variation between individuals in this region. The analysis method considerably improves the exclusion capacity of mtDNA analysis of domestic dogs compared with sequence analysis of non-repetitive DNA.
Improved Method for Shooting Distance Determination. Part 2—Bullet Holes in Objects that Cannot be Processed in the Laboratory
Authors: Glattstein B , Zeichner A , Vinokurov A , Shoshani E
Published: August 2015

An improved method for firing distance determination on exhibits that cannot be processed in the laboratory such as cars, doors, windows, or furniture is described. The novel part of the method includes transfer of total nitrite (nitrite ions and smokeless powder residues) from the target to an adhesive lifter. After the transfer, vaporous lead and copper deposits around the bullet entrance hole are visualized on the target by sodium rhodizonate and rubeanic acid, respectively. The Modified Griess Test is carried out after alkaline hydrolysis of the smokeless powder residues on the adhesive lifter.
Analysis of Genotype Frequencies and Interlocus Association for the PM, DQA1, and D1S80 Loci in Four Populations
Authors: Klitz W , Reynolds R , Chen J , Erlich HA
Published: August 2015

Allele frequencies of the LDLR, HBGG, GYPA, D7S8, GC, DQA1, and D1S80 loci are presented and genotypes are analyzed for each of four ethnic groups: African Americans (n = 200), US Caucasians (n = 200), US Hispanic (n = 200), and Japanese (n = 89). Hardy-Weinberg genotypic proportions were observed in all but two of the 28 population-locus tests undertaken. Those two instances are attributable to type I statistical error. Gametic equilibrium among loci is an assumption invoked for application of the product rule to utilize the discriminatory power from two or more loci simultaneously. Two statistical methods, a genotype matching statistic and log-linear modeling, were used to evaluate gametic disequilibrium. The match statistic, comparing observed to expected likelihood of genotypic identity for seven loci among pairs of individuals within the database, revealed only one statistically significant deviation among 20 tests. As expected, the probability of match was generally lowest in the test on all ethnic groups combined, indicating that allele frequencies differ among ethnic groups for some of the loci. This was confirmed with the statistic θ to measure ethnic stratification, in which about 0.10 of the genetic variation is apportioned among the four ethnic groups for four of the structural loci (LDLR, HBGG, GC, and DQA1), while for GYPA, D7S8, and D1S80, variation is more uniformly distributed among ethnic groups. Log-linear modeling was also applied to the five PM loci. The most parsimonious log-linear model included only three higher order terms; the two-way interactions of three of the PM loci with ethnic group. These three instances (LDLR, HBGG, and GC) indicated differences in allele frequencies between ethnic groups. No two or higher way interaction (disequilibrium) was observed among loci. In summary, the assumptions of Hardy-Weinberg and gametic equilibrium that facilitate the use of the five PM loci, DQA1 and D1S80 in forensic applications are consistent with the allele and genotype frequencies observed in these populations.
A Rare Mutation in the Amelogenin Gene and Its Potential Investigative Ramifications
Authors: Roffey PE , Eckhoff CI , Kuhl JL
Published: August 2015

Over the past few years, the Australian forensic science community has adopted a common methodology and technology in the application of DNA profiling for investigative and forensic purposes. The ultimate objective of this initiative is the establishment of a national DNA database similar to that used in the UK. An integral part of this methodology is the use of “Profiler Plus,” a nonaplex of STRs combined with amelogenin, a locus utilized for sex determination. This paper reports the results from a case where a mutation in the annealing region of the amelogenin primers appears to have resulted in the failure to amplify the amelogenin Y-homolog from a phenotypically normal male. The result was confirmed using two different primer sets that amplify different regions of the amelogenin gene. This situation suggests that the genetic determination of sex based on the amelogenin sequences from specimens of unknown origin, such as crime scene samples, should not be considered infallible.
Hate Crimes on the Internet
Authors: Deirmenjian JM
Published: August 2015

The Internet serves as a channel for electronic communication on an international level. While communication on the Internet has grown exponentially, the proliferation of crimes in cyberspace has become rampant. Hate crimes, in particular, have become increasingly prevalent on the Internet. In this past decade, the United States government has taken significant measures to combat the proliferation of hate crimes. This paper reports six cases of “cyberhate” crimes and emphasizes pertinent legal issues surrounding them. Current modes of intervention are discussed, ranging from local to national levels. The forensic psychiatrist may undertake a challenging role in the interpretation of the hateful criminal mind at the interface of psychiatry and the law.
Scanning Electron Microscopic Analysis of Skin Resolution as an Aid in Identifying Trauma in Forensic Investigations
Authors: Rawson RB , Starich GH , Rawson RD
Published: August 2015

The forensic investigator is frequently confronted with cases that present with wounds and blunt force trauma. Presently, the forensic investigator depends upon previous experience and further investigative deduction of the crime scene to analyze these injuries. Although not readily apparent to the naked eye, many skin tissue injuries can be visualized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This study was designed to establish skin trauma resolution using SEM in various skin preparations. Tissue trauma was induced on leather, preserved skin, fresh skin, and living skin using dies of varying thread size. Calibrated pressure forces in pounds per square inch (psi) were applied and impressions made using vinyl polysiloxane. Positive replicas of the tissues were prepared for SEM using isocyanate resin. After sputter coating the cast with 35 nm of gold-palladium, electron micrographs were generated using a Jeol JSM-5310L V scanning electron microscope. To establish resolution, thread widths of 52, 104, and 208 threads per inch (tpi) and trauma forces of 150, 200, and 250 psi were used to produce the impressions. Microgrooves that were identified on the die threads were analyzed. The optimum pressure for resolution studies was 150 psi using the 52 tpi die on the leather sample (4.67 + 0.88 µm, p = 0.046 and 0.025, respectively, by ANOVA). The resolution was compared to that of leather using preserved, fresh, and living skin. The resolution in preserved and fresh skin was less than for leather (9.00 ± 1.73 and 10.5 ± 4.5 versus 4.67 ± 0.88 µm, p = 0.09 and p = 0.20, respectively). Living skin resolution was 3 µm at 52 tpi and 100 psi. Various implements of blunt force trauma were also examined using the leather sample. Time after trauma resolution was examined at 0 (3 µm), 5 (6 µm), 10 (8 µm), and 20 (9 µm) min in living tissue. A comparison between the microgrooves on the die replicas and the tissue trauma impressions revealed striking agreement for both linearity and resolution. Analysis of the microgrooves suggests that discrete morphological characteristics are seen in skin tissue traumas. This method could expand the tools available for the forensic investigation of blunt force trauma.
Time Trends in a Study of 440 Mass Slayings/Rampages Occurring in Public Places
Authors: Mooney JJ , Orav EJ
Published: August 2015

We looked for variations in the timing of mass slayings/rampages (MS/R) committed in public places by solitary perpetrators. News reports on 440 MS/R from 1920 to 1996 yielded 379 onset times which were examined for temporal patterns. There was a dramatic increase in the number of MS/R from 1966 to 1995. We observed a significant monthly variation with peaks in July–August and December, and a bimodal daily rhythm for MS/R onset with a major peak at 11:00 a.m. and a minor peak at 8:00 p.m. Observed time trends for MS/R could help develop protective programs to reduce stress and violence in public places.
Elimination of 7-Aminoflunitrazepam and Flunitrazepam in Urine After a Single Dose of Rohypnol®
Authors: Negrusz A , Moore CM , Stockham TL , Poiser KR , Kern JL , Palaparthy R , Le NLT , Janicak PG , Levy NA
Published: August 2015

The hypnotic benzodiazepine flunitrazepam (Rohypnol®) has been identified as the drug of choice for the purposes of “drugging” unsuspecting victims and raping them while they are under the influence of this substance. The objective of this paper was to study elimination of flunitrazepam and 7-aminoflunitrazepam in urine collected from ten healthy volunteers who received a single 2 mg oral dose of Rohypnol®, to determine how long after drug administration 7-aminoflunitrazepam can be detected. A highly sensitive NCI-GC-MS method for the simultaneous quantitation of flunitrazepam (LOQ 100 pg/mL) and 7-aminoflunitrazepam (LOQ 10 pg/mL) in urine was developed. All samples were screened for benzodiazepines using optimized micro-plate enzyme immunoassay. The highest concentrations of 7-aminoflunitrazepam (70–518 ng/mL) and flunitrazepam (0.7–2.8 ng/mL) in urine were observed 6 h after drug administration in nine subjects and after 24 h in one subject. In six subjects 7-aminoflunitrazepam was detected up to 14 days after flunitrazepam administration, in one subject up to 21 days and in three subjects up to 28 days. In urine samples collected from six volunteers, flunitrazepam was detected three days after Rohypnol® intake, in three subjects 24 h, and in one subject 5 days later. Benzodiazepine micro-plate enzyme immunoassay kit allowed the detection of flunitrazepam and metabolities 5 to 21 days after drug administration.
Regional Distribution of Cocaine in Postmortem Brain of Chronic Human Cocaine Users
Authors: Kalasinsky KS , Bosy TZ , Schmunk GA , Ang L , Adams V , Gore SB , Smialek J , Furukawa Y , Guttman M , Kish SJ
Published: August 2015

We measured concentrations of cocaine and its major metabolites (benzoylecgonine, ecgonine methylester, norcocaine, and cocaethylene) in 15 autopsied brain regions of 14 human chronic cocaine users. Only slight differences were observed in concentrations of cocaine and its metabolites amongst the examined brain areas. Although it is likely that some postmortem redistribution of the drug must have occurred, our data are consistent with the possibility that behaviorally relevant doses of cocaine are widely distributed throughout the brain of humans who use the drug on a chronic basis. Consideration should therefore be given to the possible pharmacological and toxicological actions of cocaine in both striatal and extra-striatal brain areas in human users of the drug.
Strontium Isotope Composition of Skeletal Material Can Determine the Birth Place and Geographic Mobility of Humans and Animals
Authors: Beard BL , Johnson CM
Published: August 2015

The Sr isotope composition measured in skeletal elements (e.g., bone, teeth, or antlers) can be used to infer the geographic region that an animal or human inhabited, because different regions tend to have distinct Sr isotope compositions, and natural variations in the relative abundance of Sr isotopes are not changed as Sr is processed through the food chain. Therefore, an organism that ingests Sr from one region can have a Sr isotope composition that is different than that of an organism that ingests Sr from another region. The Sr isotope composition of skeletal elements is a reflection of the concentration-weighted average of dietary Sr that was ingested while that skeletal element was produced. Because different skeletal elements grow and exchange Sr at different stages during the life times of organisms, Sr isotope analysis of different skeletal elements can be used to infer changes in geographic location at different stages in an organism's life. The Sr isotope composition measured in human teeth will reflect the average Sr isotope composition that was ingested as a child, due to the immobile nature of Sr and Ca in teeth after formation, whereas the Sr isotope composition of bone will reflect the average isotopic composition over the last ten years of life, due to continuous biological processing of Sr and Ca in bone. Inferring the average isotopic composition of dietary Sr is best done by analyzing skeletal fragments from control groups, which might be animals that have the same feeding habits as the animal in question, or, in the case of humans, analysis of close family relatives. In cases where it is not possible to construct a Sr isotope database from control groups, it becomes necessary to estimate the isotopic composition of dietary Sr based on geologic principles. We present three case studies from our research that illustrate a range of approaches: (1) results from a criminal case where a deer was illegally harvested and the location of the deer was important to establish, (2) a pilot study of commingled human remains from a burial in Vietnam, associated with the Vietnam Conflict, and (3) a study of 13th and 14th century migration of people from an archeological site in the Southwest United States.
A Study on the Use of Photopolymer Reflex Plate in the Forgery of Chinese Seals
Authors: Cheng KC , Cheng N , Wei YC
Published: August 2015

This study compares the identifying characteristics between the impressions made with original Chinese seals and photopolymer replicate seals, and between the impressions made with two photopolymer replicate seals that originate from one single negative. Various seal materials common to the Chinese community such as cow's horns and ivory are employed. Other than the common factors such as different incident angle upon imprinting or different degree of inking that constitute the natural variation in impressions, the physical changes of the seal materials with temperature will be considered. This study concludes that photopolymer replicate seal impressions can be differentiated from the originals in respect to print density and stroke morphology, but it is very difficult to differentiate between two photopolymer replicate seal impressions with the same origin. This study also proposes a simple method for the examination of forged Chinese seal impressions.
Allele and Genotype Frequencies for D1S80 and 3′APOB in Recanati, Central Italy
Authors: Biondolillo M , Mamolini E , Manni F , Scapoli C , Lorenzetti L , Barrai I
Published: August 2015

The VNTR 3′APOB and D1S80 loci were studied in a sample of 179 individuals living in the Recanati Area (Central Italy). For 3′APOB, we found 34 genotypes and 11 alleles. The system was in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.788 and 0.798 respectively. The discrimination power was 0.96, the a-priori paternity exclusion power was 0.619 and the polymorphism information content was 0.773. For D1S80, we found 45 genotypes and 18 alleles. The system deviated significantly from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. The observed and expected heterozygosity were 0.696 and 0.790 respectively. The discrimination power was 0.96, the a-priori paternity exclusion power was 0.617 and PIC was 0.767. The Recanati sample was compared with the general Italian frequencies for the 3′APOB locus. A difference of borderline significance was detected (P = 0.04). For D1S80, the sample was compared with a sample from Southern Italy and no significant difference was detected.
Population Frequency Distribution of HumF13A01, HumFXIIIB, and HumLIPOL Loci in the Basque Country (Northern Spain)
Authors: Fernández-Fernández I , Castro A , Buján M , Cuevas N , García-Orad A , de Pancorbo MM
Published: August 2015

A population study of unrelated individuals from the Basque Country (Northern Spain) was carried out using the GenePrint STR System. The PCR products were separated on denaturing polyacrylamide gels and visualized by silver staining. Three tetrameric loci were evaluated: HumF13A01, HumFXIIIB, and HumLIPOL. All loci fit Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and independence of alleles was found between these STR loci. A comparison with other population groups indicated allele frequencies are well conserved in Caucasians, but differ from other racial groups. The calculated parameters a priori probability of exclusion (Pex) and “power of discrimination” (PD) show how informative these loci are for the determination of identity and relatedness of individuals.
Loss of Heterozygosity Detected in a Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Locus Commonly Used for Human DNA Identification
Authors: Rubocki RJ , Duffy KJ , Shepard KL , McCue BJ , Shepherd SJ , Wisecarver JL
Published: August 2015

Short tandem repeat (STR) markers are commonly used in basic genetic research and in human identification testing. Clinically, STRs can be used to study genetic alterations in tumors. A genetic deletion common to many types of cancer is referred to as the loss of heterozygosity (LOH). Numerous examples of LOH in cancer have been described and some have been mapped to areas located in close proximity to markers employed in human identity testing. Despite this fact, LOH has rarely been observed for STR loci commonly employed in forensic testing. Recently, for medico-legal purposes, we were asked to determine whether a tissue biopsy originated from a particular individual. For a reference source we assessed two specimens, one from normal tissue and one from cancerous tissue. When both reference specimens were used to generate DNA profiles, we observed LOH at one STR locus, D13S317. As demonstrated in other cancers only the cancerous biopsy demonstrated LOH. The forensic community should be cognizant of these unusual circumstances because, as identification of human DNA continues to be used more extensively, certain instances will arise in which reference material will not be readily available. In these situations, archived specimens may be employed as a reference source. Clinical specimens such as tissue biopsies should be used with caution if they have not been confirmed to contain normal tissue.
The Presumptive Reagent Fluorescein for Detection of Dilute Bloodstains and Subsequent STR Typing of Recovered DNA
Authors: Budowle B , Leggitt JL , Defenbaugh DA , Keys KM , Malkiewicz SF
Published: August 2015

A presumptive reagent for dilute blood detection other than luminol is fluorescein. The sensitivity of fluorescein approaches the sensitivity of detection levels of luminol. The fluorescein detection method offers the advantages of working in a lighted environment, and the reaction persists longer than luminol. A series of diluted bloodstains, ranging from neat to 1:1,000,000, was placed on a variety of substrates. Three sets were made per substrate. One set was exposed to fluorescin, one set was exposed to luminol, and one set served as an uncontaminated control. The fluorescein signal persisted longer than luminol. However, background staining for fluorescein was observed on some substrates within 30 s to 1 min, and no background staining was observed for luminol. Stains on non-absorbent surfaces were detectable at 1:100,000 dilutions, and stains on absorbent surfaces were detectable usually at no more than 1:100. The sensitivity of detection of fluorescein was comparable to that of luminol in this study. In all cases, where sufficient DNA was recovered, typeable results at all 13 core CODIS STR loci were obtained from treated bloodstains and controls. The results from STR typing indicate that there was no evidence of DNA degradation.
RFLP Band Size Standards: NIST Standard Reference Material® 2390
Authors: Duewer DL , Richie KL , Reeder DJ
Published: August 2015

The procedural standard for DNA profiling developed by the U.S. advisory board on DNA quality assurance methods mandates annual confirmation of forensic DNA measurement systems against an appropriate reference material supplied by or traceable to the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). NIST Standard Reference Material® (SRM®) 2390 is a suitable and appropriate standard for HaeIII restriction enzyme-based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) profiling systems. Originally issued in 1992, an among-laboratory SRM 2390 recertification study was initiated in 1997. Using data provided by the 20 state, local, or commercial forensic laboratory participants, quantitative band sizes values (expected mean values and associated bivariate tolerance intervals) are established for two different-source DNAs (female cell line K562 and healthy male “TAW”) for genetic loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D17S79. Methods for validating an RFLP measurement system, validating a control material or other secondary standard, and for tracing a particular set of RFLP measurements to NIST SRM 2390 are described in detail.
RFLP Band Size Standards: Cell Line K562 Values from 1991 to 1997 Proficiency Studies
Authors: Duewer DL , Gary KT , Reeder DJ
Published: August 2015

Cell line K562 is the de facto forensic control material for forensic restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) DNA profiling in the U.S. Fifty-one proficiency tests conducted from 1991 through 1997 enable a detailed description of RFLP measurement performance during this period. Sufficient data are available to define reference distributions for all commonly utilized and many less commonly reported genetic loci, for both HaeIII- and HinfI-based RFLP systems. The average measured size of HaeIII locus D1S7 and D5S110 bands has varied slightly over time; while relatively small, these temporal changes add to the overall interlaboratory measurement uncertainty. The characteristic standard deviation for HinfI RFLP system measurements has a nearly identical dependence on expected band size as does the standard deviation for HaeIII measurements. The ellipsoidal distance, K, is suggested for use as an RFLP data quality metric; the critical threshold value that on average excludes 1% of plausibly valid proficiency data for a given polymorphic locus is K1% = 14.2.
The Identification of 2-Chloro-4,5-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine in an Illicit Drug Seizure
Authors: Lewis RJ , Reed D , Service AG , Langford AM
Published: August 2015

This work outlines the unequivocal identification of the “ecstasy” analog, 2-chloro-4,5-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine, using combined gas chromatography/mass spectroscopy (GC/MS) and proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-NMR).

This compound was identified along with 3,4-methylenedioxymethylamphetamine (MDMA) in an illicit tablet seizure, which included 26 off-white tablets.
The Effects of Microwave Irradiation on Occluded Solvents in Illicitly Produced Cocaine Hydrochloride
Authors: Morello DR , Casale JF , Stevenson ML , Klein RFX
Published: August 2015

The current clandestine methodology for the manufacture of illicit cocaine hydrochloride utilizes microwave heating in order to dry the finished product. This study addresses the effects this step has on the occluded solvents present in newly prepared cocaine hydrochloride. Nine 1-kilogram-sized batches of cocaine hydrochloride were prepared from cocaine base using a variety of solvents or solvent mixtures commonly utilized in clandestine laboratories, pressed into bricks, and submitted to microwave heating. Residual solvents were qualitatively and quantitatively monitored before, during, and following the microwaving step by static headspace-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. All solvents used in the conversion process were easily detected in the bricks even after extensive irradiation, confirming that occluded solvents are extremely resistant to removal by microwave heating. Qualitative and quantitative data corresponding to the residual solvents in the prepared cocaine hydrochloride bricks are presented.
Analysis of Biofluids for Flunitrazepam and Metabolites by Electrospray Liquid Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: LeBeau MA , Montgomery MA , Wagner JR , Miller ML
Published: August 2015

A rapid and sensitive liquid chromatography/electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (LC/MS) procedure has been developed for the analysis of biofluids containing flunitrazepam and its metabolites. Specimens were spiked with deuterated analogs of the analytes. Urine specimens were enzymatically hydrolyzed and blood specimens were untreated. Extractions were carried out using CleanScreen DAU SPE cartridges. The drugs were separated on a C18 column using a methanol-water-ammonium hydroxide (60:40:0.03 v/v) mobile phase. After determination of base peaks using full scan mass spectrometry, the mass spectrometry method was optimized to operate in selected-ion monitoring (SIM) mode for the base peak of each analyte. Positive findings were confirmed by LC/MS/MS using the same mobile phase and column.

This analytical procedure allows for the detection of low levels of flunitrazepam and metabolites in biofluids. It is useful for ascertaining the role of flunitrazepam in cases of drug-facilitated sexual assault.
Parentage Testing on Blood Crusts from Firearms Projectiles by DNA Typing Settles an Insurance Fraud Case
Authors: Soares-Vieira JA , Billerbeck AEC , Iwamura ESM , Cardoso LA , Muñoz DR
Published: August 2015

We describe a case of a fraudulent insurance claim. The family of an adult white male (DLF) notified the police of their son's disappearance. After a few weeks, a corpse that presented characteristics similar to those of the DLF was found in advanced stages of decay and was identified by the family as being DLF. The family then filed a claim for the life insurance that DLF had taken out just before he disappeared. Suspicions were raised about the identification of the corpse, because it had been done only visually, and because the insurance policy had been taken out just prior to DLF's disappearance. The insurance company requested a postmortem examination for identification. As the corpse had been cremated immediately after identification by the family, the biological material that was encrusted on the two projectiles removed from the body was used for analysis. The blood crusts provided enough genomic DNA for us to carry out PCR base typing of HLA-DQA1, D1S80, HUMCSF1PO, HUMTPOX, HUMTH01, D3S1744, D12S1090, D18S849, and amelogenin. Results from all loci typing from the corpse presumed to be that of DLF were then compared with that of his alleged biological parents, revealing genetic incompatibility.
A Cause Célèbre: The So-Called “Ballpoint Murder”
Authors: Rompen JC , Meek MF , van Andel MV
Published: August 2015

Transorbital intracranial injuries are uncommon but classic ophthalmologic traumas. This report describes a case of a woman who was found dead. Postmortem examination revealed a Bic® ballpoint which had penetrated her head through her right eye. Detective forces believed a murder to be the most likely cause; however, medical expert consultants indicated that a tragic accident was more likely. The case and the results of crossbow test-firing on human cadavers are presented.
Acute Cerebellar Hemorrhage in a Patient with Klinefelter Syndrome: XXY Karyotype Obtained Postmortem from Cells from Pericardial Fluid
Authors: Kominato Y , Fujikura T , Matsui K , Hata N , Takizawa H
Published: August 2015

A case of Klinefelter syndrome and a spontaneous cerebellar hemorrhage in a 12-year-old boy is presented. Autopsy revealed that the hemorrhage was due to the rupture of a dilated artery in an arteriovenous malformation in the right cerebellar hemisphere. The small, undescended testes exhibited partial atrophy of the seminiferous tubules. Postmortem chromosome analysis of cells from the pericardial fluid demonstrated a 47, XXY karyotype. He had previous surgical treatment for bilateral thumb polydactyly and patent ductus arteriosus. In juvenile cases of sudden death with overlapping morphological dysgenesis, postmortem karyotyping may provide important diagnostic information.
Periadventitial Extracranial Vertebral Artery Hemorrhage in a Case of Shaken Baby Syndrome
Authors: Gleckman AM , Kessler SC , Smith TW
Published: August 2015

We report a case of a two-month-old boy who became unresponsive in the sole custody of his father. Resuscitation efforts on route to the hospital were able to restore the infant's heart beat. However, neurologic function never recovered. Autopsy revealed massive cerebral edema, recent subdural, and subarachnoid hemorrhages, bilateral retinal hemorrhages, and cervical spine ligament hemorrhages. Separation of individual cervical vertebrae showed extensive, bilateral, periadventitial vertebral artery hemorrhages between C1 and C4, with corresponding luminal compression of the vertebral arteries. The importence of this previously unreported phenomena of periadventitial vertebral artery hemorrhage in the setting of shaken baby syndrome is discussed.
A Non-fatal Case of Intoxication with Foxglove, Documented by Means of Liquid Chromatography-Electrospray-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Lacassie E , Marquet P , Martin-Dupont S , Gaulier J-M , Lachâtre G
Published: August 2015

The non-fatal self-poisoning of a 36-year-old female patient, who ingested a concoction of foxglove (Digitalis Purpurea), is presented. On the admission, initial symptoms were nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and cardiovascular shock with sinus bradycardia. Blood and urine were assayed for 17 cardiotonic hetorosides, using a highly specific LC-MS procedure. Serum and urine specimens were collected over five days and analyzed by liquid chromatography-electrospray-mass spectrometry (LC-ES-MS). This accurate procedure allowed the determination of the digitalis glycosides and their metabolites in serum and urine. The serum concentrations of digitalis glycosides were maximum on the first day (gitoxin 13.1 ng/mL, digitoxin 112.6 ng/mL, digitoxigenin 3.3 ng/mL, and digitoxigenin mono-digitoxoside 8.9 ng/mL) and decreased over five days. We observed a peak gitaloxin level (112.6 ng/mL) on the fifth day only. After administration of atropine as well as dimeticone, alginic acid, and metoclopramide, health status improved. The peak urine concentrations were reached at hour 30 and were respectively 91.3 and 69.9 ng/mL for gitaloxin and digitoxin, while those of digitoxigenin, digitoxigenin mono-digoxoside and gitoxin were lower (respectively 0.7, 1, and 5.6 ng/mL). The patient was discharged on the fifth day when there were no residual symptoms.
Distribution of Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism D1S80 Alleles in a Saudi Arabian Population
Authors: Tahir MA , Sinha SK , A-Al-Kubaidan N , Tahir UA , Budowle B , Amjad M
Published: August 2015

Distribution of Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism D1S80 Alleles in a Saudi Arabian Population
Gene Frequencies for Four Hypervariable DNA Loci in a Chilean Population of Mixed Ancestry
Authors: Acuña M , Jorquera H , Armanet L , Cifuentes L
Published: August 2015

Gene Frequencies for Four Hypervariable DNA Loci in a Chilean Population of Mixed Ancestry
Mitochondrial DNA HVI and HVII Variation in a North-East Spanish Population
Authors: Bartinez-Jarreta B , Prades A , Calafell F , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Mitochondrial DNA HVI and HVII Variation in a North-East Spanish Population
Phenotypic Differences at the HUMvWA Locus Amplified with Different STR Kits
Authors: Allen RW , Pritchard J , Harmon J , Floyd S
Published: August 2015

Phenotypic Differences at the HUMvWA Locus Amplified with Different STR Kits
Review of Broken Bones, Anthropological Analysis of Blunt Force Trauma
Authors: Buikstra JE
Published: August 2015

This volume should grace the shelves of all forensic anthropology and bioarchaeology laboratories. It serves well its dual goals: 1) to provide an overview of the principles for interpreting blunt force trauma; and 2) to illustrate through case studies the significance of the individual in assessing skeletal trauma. While overall there are 16 collaborators, they are visible only as coauthors of the initial chapter and in the case studies which make up approximately 20% of the text. Galloway thus plays a major role both as editor and author (Chapter 1–7 and Case Study C).
Review of Understanding Mass Spectra: A Basic Approach
Authors: Allison J
Published: August 2015

With more than 20 years of experience in the teaching of mass tral interpretation to chemists in the health, environmental, and forensic fields, R. Martin Smith has done an excellent job (with the help of Prof. Ken Busch as technical editor) with this introductory book on mass spectrometry (MS) and spectral interpretation. Rather than attempt to cover the entire field, he focuses on electron ionization (EI), instruments that use this ionization technique, and the spectra that result. In writing a book on EIIMS, it is very difficult to not be, in some way, derivative of Fred McLaffeity's Interpretation of Mass Spectra, historically the most important book in this field to date. Smith covers the basics, creates new “basics,” and offers a text that will be conlpetitive with the best. Understanding Mass Spectra contains chapters on “Isotopic Abundances,” “Ionization, Fragmentation and Electron Accounting,” “Neutral es and Ion Series,” “Alpha-Cleavage,” and “Important Mass tral Reairangements,” the key topics of this field. However, h's work also offers unique and important chapters such as riting Mass Spectral Fragmentation Mechanisms” and “Structure Determination in Complex Molecules Using Mass trometry.”
Review of Handbook of Chemical and Biological Warfare Agents
Authors: Carter DL
Published: August 2015

Chemical and biological warfare (CBW) agents pose a serious at because of the physiological harm they may cause; the relative case of which they can be deployed; the diverse types and ces of CBW agents which exist; and the difficulty of identifying and classifying the agent (a factor aggravated by the large number of different agents that exist). This last point is particularly important when the CBW agent is encountered by a public safety or emergency services official who may be suspicious of a substance, but lacks the technical training to identify and safely handle the agent. To deal with these eventualities, this book is an invaluable resource which should be in the office of every emergency management official because of the potential of encountering these substances.
Review of Fingerprint Detection with Lasers, Second Edition
Authors: Cantu AA
Published: August 2015

This revised and expanded edition of Dr. Menzel's 1980 book is lcome book for latent print examiners, forensic scientists, and scientists interested in the fascinating field of latent print visualization. It updates his previous book by including new and advanced optical imaging techniques that have emerged in the last 20 years. These include CCD cameras, near-infrared imagers, ultraviolet imagers, and acousto-optical tunable filters. It also treats new developments in latent print visualization that have occurred during this time such as the use of DFO, ninhydrin analogues, rare-earth chelates, 1,2-indanediones, multi-metal deposition method, and DMAC. Each chapter is well referenced.
Review of Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation, 6th edition
Authors: Payne DM
Published: August 2015

Changes from previous editions of this book are minimal and include brief treatments of data bases such as AFIS, CODIS, IBIS, DRUG FIRE, a list of important factors relative to providing rt testimony, a reasonable explanation of DNA testing processes, and a short section on the need for professional ethics. In the preface the author listed the O. J. Simpson case as a new topic, but only made reference to that case in the context of the impact of the investigation without any explanation.
Review of Practical Aspects of Rape Investigation: A Multidisciplinary Approach, 2nd ed.
Authors: Payne DM
Published: August 2015

Overall, this text is a comprehensive treatment of the subject of rape investigation and provides a good view of relevant research on the topic. As such, it is an excellent choice for those involved in rape investigations. The first three chapters dealing with Public Beliefs, Police Attitudes and Beliefs, and Victims' Perspectives should be particularly useful to working investigators. The authors' treatment of victimology should assist the reader to identify conlinon myths, sterotypes, and confounding attitudes. Inclusion of this critical material in this book raises it above other investigative works and offers the potential to reduce subjectivity among investigators, which can provide direct effects on the efficacy of rape investigative methods. This is particularly so for the nonseasoned investigator.
Review of The Scientific Examination of Documents, Methods and Techniques, Second Edition
Authors: McKasson SC
Published: August 2015

In the preface to this edition, the author points out that the object of the book is to provide an outline of the subject and that the intended audience is those interested individuals outside the field of document examination. Most books on document examination contain some disclaimer of this sort—that they are intended for lawyers or investigators who may have need for the services of a professional document examiner, and have more than a passing interest of what expertise in the field is comprised. In most texts, this is a sort of “cover story” strategy designed to serve one or more of the following purposes: to provide some protection to experienced document examiners (maybe especially the authors themselves) when a cross-examining attorney tries to use the book as an authority in the field or learned treatise; to prevent the naive from using the text as the sole training source; or perhaps to extend the longevity of the work since an overview would not tend to go out of date quite as fast as a treatise. Most authors then attempt to be a textbook reference for document examiners despite their claims to the contrary.