bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Allele Frequencies in Two New York City Jewish Populations
Authors: Medintz I , Levine L , McCurdy L , Chiriboga L , Kingston C , Desnick RJ , Eng CM , Kobilinsky L
Published: August 2015

Allele and genotype frequencies were determined for the HLA-DQA1 and Amplitype® Polymarker loci (low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR), glycophorin A (GYPA), hemoglobin G gammaglobin (HBGG), D7S8, and group-specific component (Gc)) in Hasidic and non-Hasidic Ashkenazi New York City Jewish subpopulations. For all loci tested, except HBGG, the 2 subpopulations meet the assumption of Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Comparison of various allele and genotype frequencies for the Hasidic and the non-Hasidic groups showed no significant differences. Comparison of the various allele frequencies in the two subpopulations to another Caucasian group revealed significant differences at the HLA-DQA1 and D7S8 loci in the Hasidic group. These frequency data can be used for comparison to other populations and for frequency estimates in DNA profiling.
Sequential Multiplex Amplification: Utility in Forensic Casework with Minimal Amounts of DNA and Partially Degraded Samples
Authors: Lorente M , Lorente JA , Carlos Alvarez J , Budowle B , Wilson MR , Villanueva E
Published: August 2015

Since its introduction, PCR has become a widely-used, routine technique in forensic laboratories. A number of PCR protocols that were developed originally are now being replaced by more powerful approaches, particularly those based on multiplex amplification of short tandem repeat (STR) loci.

One alternative form of multiplex PCR amplification, called Sequential Multiplex Amplification (SMA), was designed to amplify a single locus and then recover and reuse the remaining genomic DNA as a template for subsequent PCR. The SMA process could be repeated several times. SMA has proven to be useful in typing genomic DNA contained in stored PCR samples and analyzing samples of limited quality and/or quantity for multiple loci. The efficacy of the use of SMA for actual typing of casework samples permitted typing for a second locus 98.11% of the samples considered; 70.75% were typeable for a third locus, and 16.98% for a fourth locus.
Fixed Bin Population Data for the VNTR Loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D14S13 in a Population Sample from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: Moura-Neto RS , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Fixed bin frequencies for the VNTR loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28, and D14S13 were determined in a Rio de Janeiro sample population. The data were generated by RFLP analysis of HaeIII-digested genomic DNA and chemiluminescent detection. The six VNTR loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and there is no evidence for association of alleles between the VNTR loci. The frequency data can be used in forensic analyses and paternity tests to estimate the frequency of a DNA profile in the general Brazilian population.
Validation of HLA-DR Locus Typing in Forensic Specimens by Combining PCR-SSP with PCR-RFLP
Authors: Ota M , Katsuyama Y , Liu CY , Arakura A , Fukushima H
Published: August 2015

The applicability of HLA-DR DNA typing combined with PCR-SSP(sequence specific primers) and PCR-RFLP(restriction fragment length polymorphism) to forensic practice was investigated. PCR-SSP was as effective as serological HLA-DR typing in determining DR types. For more precise definition of DRB1 alleles encoding DR2, DR4, and DR8 antigens, which are fairly common in Japan, we used the PCR-RFLP method. For increasing the sensitivity of this system, we used the nested or semi-nested PCR technique. The minimum amount of template DNA needed for typing was 10 ng of genomic DNA in the case of ordinary PCR, whereas 10 pg of DNA was enough in nested and seminested PCR. HLA-DR and-DRB1 alleles were able to be determined from the small amounts of DNA available in forensic materials using the PCR-SSP and subsequent PCR-RFLP methods.
Transillumination Enhances Photographs of Retinal Hemorrhages
Authors: Nolte KB
Published: August 2015

Light stand photography with direct illumination of the retina is a common method of demonstrating retinal hemorrhages. The lack of contrast between dark hemorrhages and surrounding dark retina, and the difficulty of photographing into the concavity of an eye limit this technique. Transillumination of a bivalved globe with a bright external light source such as a colonoscope or microscope light yields high contrast superior photographs. This technique is useful to document retinal hemorrhages, and provides quality photographs for courtroom demonstrations.
Determination of Phenmetrazine in Urine by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry after Liquid-Liquid Extraction and Derivatization with Perfluorooctanoyl Chloride
Authors: Dasgupta A , Mahle CE
Published: August 2015

Phenmetrazine is a central nervous system stimulant and is currently used as an anorectic agent. The drug is abused and reported to cause death from overdose. We describe a liquid-liquid extraction protocol for phenmetrazine from urine using 1-chlorobutane and subsequent derivatization using perfluorooctanoyl chloride for gas chromatography-mass spectrometric confirmation. Quantitation of urinary phenmetrazine can be easily achieved by using N-propylamphetamine as an internal standard. The perfluorooctanoyl derivative of phenmetrazine showed a weak molecular ion at m/z 573 and a characteristic strong peak at m/z 467 in the electron ionization mass spectrometry thus aiding unambiguous identification. The perfluorooctanoyl derivative of the internal standard did not show any molecular ion, but showed strong characteristic peaks at m/z 482 and 440. The within run and between run precisions of the assay were 1.7% and 3.2% at a urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 20 µg/mL. The within run and between run precisions were higher (9.4% and 10.8%) at a urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 1.0 µg/mL, which was very close to the detection limit of the assay. The assay was linear for urinary phenmetrazine concentration of 1 to 100 µg/mL with a detection limit of 0.5 µg/mL.
An Unusual Case of Death by Lightning
Authors: Blanco-Pampín JM , Suárez Peñaranda JM , Rico Boquete R , Concheiro Carro L
Published: August 2015

Lightning-related deaths are relatively uncommon, especially indoors. Some cases, involving unusual circumstances, may be of medicolegal relevance. We report a highly infrequent case of fulguration occurring inside a house in a country area. The deceased, a 55-year-old man, was struck by lightning while he was in his bed. Scene investigation and autopsy findings were equally important in finding out the cause of death. We think that the present case is of interest to forensic pathologists because what occurred might be difficult to clarify.
Coronary Artery Compression by Teflon Pledget Granuloma Following Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Cohle SD , Delavan JW
Published: August 2015

We describe a massive fatal posterior myocardial infarct resulting from compression of the right coronary artery by a Teflon pledget granuloma in a patient who had undergone aortic valve replacement six months before death. Other iatrogenic causes of coronary artery occlusion or compression are discussed in this paper. To our knowledge this is the first report of this surgical complication.
A Fatality Involving Moclobemide, Sertraline, and Pimozide
Authors: McIntyre IM , King CV , Staikos V , Gall J , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

A case is described involving a suspected fatal interaction between moclobemide and sertraline, in combination with the use of pimozide.
A Fatality Due to Moclobemide
Authors: Camaris C , Little D
Published: August 2015

A fatality due to ingestion of the antidepressant drug moclobemide is reported. Moclobemide is a selective and reversible inhibitor of monoamine oxidase type A. Previous reports have suggested that it is a safe drug even when taken in large quantities. The few reported fatalities have all been ascribed to serotonin syndrome, due to an interaction between moclobemide and other serotonergic agents.

A 48-year-old woman with a history of depression and suicide attempts was found deceased at home. Autopsy revealed no evidence of significant natural disease or injury. Toxicologic analysis was performed and drug levels measured by capillary gas chromatography. The blood concentration of moclobemide was 137 mg/L and the liver concentration was 432 mg/kg. Low levels of diazepam, nordiazepam, and trifluoperazine were also detected. Death was considered to be due to acute poisoning by moclobemide. This case report is the first, to our knowledge, where death has been attributed to the toxic effects of moclobemide alone.
Three Cases of Fatal Firearm Use Following External Hinge Removal from Locked Gun Cabinets
Authors: Huston BM , Germaniuk HD , Sidler AK
Published: August 2015

In order to potentially decrease the number of homicides and suicides that result from firearms, one must decrease the accessibility of guns. We describe three cases that were obtained from the Onondaga County Medical Examiners Office in New York that occurred between January 1990 to March 1993. In two suicides and a double homicide, firearms were quietly obtained from commercially manufactured locked gun cabinets by removing the door hinges, which were located on the outside of the cabinet, with a screwdriver.

The incidence of obtaining firearms by this method is not known. No other similar cases are reported in the literature. Removing hinges that are placed on the outside of the cabinet may be a common method of obtaining firearms to commit either homicide or suicide in the home, but perhaps not recognized. More information is needed. If additional cases are identified, then prevention in terms of gun cabinet design, may save lives in the future.
Review of Interpreting Evidence, Evaluating Forensic Science in the Courtroom
Authors: Hubler JR
Published: August 2015

Interpreting Evidence describes through logic and probability the interpretation of scientific evidence and how it should be presented in a court of law. It accurately and understandably illustrates the use of forensic evidence in conjunction with the other evidence in a case, rather than as an independent probability or value. The authors support the concept of the forensic scientist working in conjunction with the police and either the prosecution or defense. This would facilitate an understanding of the case as a whole and the alternative explanations or hypothesis for a particular piece of evidence. The book advocates allowing evidence to be expressed as a numerical value rather than in the form of probabilities. The authors describe how this method would apply to transfer evidence (including: fingerprint, glass, fibers, and firearms); blood and DNA; as well as to behavioral and handwriting evidence.
Review of: Levy H “And The Blood Cried out. A Prosecutor's Spell-binding Account of the Power of DNA”
Authors: Wenk RE
Published: August 2015

Rarely, does a technically accurate work provide a concise (223 page) yet intriguing narrative. Harlan Levy's straightforward account of the introduction of DNA technology into the criminal justice system makes for easy and informative reading. The hard-bound, well-edited, carefully-referenced edition should be a required textbook for students of the law and forensic sciences, but it may well be consumed by those who find pleasure in detective stories. The book has ten chapters that provide details of some very famous and infamous legal cases that arose during the first “DNA decade”. These narratives were selected because defendants were found guilty or innocent on the bases of (or despite) VNTR and/or PCR matching of DNA contained in blood or semen evidence to DNA of the blood of suspects.
Review of Jekyll on Trial (Multiple Personality Disorder and Criminal Law)
Authors: Erlich LB
Published: August 2015

At the outset of this review, you should know that I have a bias. This book was written by a law professor and a psychologist and I am a forensic psychiatrist. As a psychiatrist, my focus is on the biological and biochemical nature of mental illness. As a forensic psychiatrist I am focused on if not obsessed by the source of the subject of evaluation and the reason why he is in the evaluator's office. Neither of these issues are dealt with in this book.
Injuries Due to Letter Bombs
Authors: Missliwetz J , Schneider B , Oppenheim H , Wieser I
Published: August 2015

In Austria in late 1993 ten letter bombs were sent to outstanding persons who have been engaged in the care of foreigners. Four of these bombs detonated, when they were opened by the addressee. The remaining six bombs were discovered in time and could be deactivated by specialists. The construction of these bombs and the lesions sustained by the four victims will be discussed. The injuries mainly concerned the left hand, i.e., the hand used by right-handed persons to hold a letter when opening it. The way holding the letter was of crucial influence on the degree of injury, as with the same explosive charge (which can be assumed deducing from the investigation of the deactivated bombs) injuries varied considerably. They ranged from minor tissue-lesions to mutilated fingers and the risk of exsanguination.
Detection of Firearms Imprints on Hands of Suspects: Study of the PDT-Based Field Test
Authors: Almog J , Glattstein B
Published: August 2015

The results of a multifaceted research project towards the optimization of the visualization process of firearms contact marks on hands are reported. Latent imprints that are formed by the close contact between the metallic parts of the weapons and the palms were visualized by the application of the PDT iron (II) reagent. Various factors affecting the quality of the marks were studied. Also PDT analogues were synthesized and their performance compared with that of the original compound.

Some of the analogues show slight advantages over PDT in contrast and sensitivity, but PDT in acetone solution, such as in the commercial preparations Ferroprint or Ferrotrace seems to be the formulation of choice for reasons of availability and cost. It can visualize latent firearms impressions on the hands several hours after the contact.
Lipid-Specific Latent Fingerprint Detection: Fingerprints on Currency
Authors: Allred CE , Lin T , Menzel ER
Published: August 2015

We describe a lipid-specific lanthanide-based method of latent fingerprint detection, specifically its application to fingerprints on currency. In the counterfeiting context, the method allows one to distinguish between fingerprints placed on the paper before and after the ink deposition.
Separation and Comparison of Fountain Pen Inks by Capillary Zone Electrophoresis
Authors: Rohde E , McManus AC , Vogt C , Heineman WR
Published: August 2015

The analysis of inks as part of the detection of fraudulent documents is a small but important part in the operation of a forensic laboratory. Apart from optical methods, multiple thin layer chromatography (TLC) is used to separate, compare and distinguish inks based on their dye composition.

Capillary electrophoresis (CE), a relatively young separation technique with very high resolution power, was used for the analysis of water soluble fountain pen inks. Inks are complex mixtures of synthetic organic and inorganic dyes, surfactants, resins and other components. The study focused on the optimization of the separation of 10% aqueous solutions of commercially available inks with respect to resolution and analysis time. During the method development process different buffers, organic modifiers and surfactants were tested. Good results were obtained with a 100 mM borate buffer at pH 8.0 containing 20% methanol. The separations were reproducible and led to baseline resolution of almost all components of blue and black fountain pen inks. Electropherograms of 15 inks of various manufacturers and countries of origin showed patterns which were in the most cases distinctly different from each other. Initial studies of the separation of extracts of inks from paper were successful and are reported here as well. Therefore, it was concluded that CE is a powerful tool for the identification of water soluble writing inks.
A Survey of the Evidential Value of Paint Transfer Evidence
Authors: McDermott SD , Willis SM
Published: August 2015

A survey of the evidential value of paint transfer in traffic accident cases is presented. 124 replies were tabulated for a series of 8 paint transfer scenarios. Various conclusions were invited from participants ranging from “slight support” to “conclusive.” A brief discussion on the use of a scale of conclusions is included.
A Study to Investigate the Feasibility of Using X-Ray Fluorescence Microanalysis to Improve Discrimination Between Colorless Synthetic Fibers
Authors: Cartier J , Roux C , Grieve M
Published: August 2015

The use of X-ray fluorescence microanalysis was investigated to determine if it would allow further discrimination between samples of colorless acrylic and polyester fibers which were indistinguishable using brightfield, fluorescence and FTIR-microscopy. The aim was to determine if this technique could be successfully applied to single fibers of relatively fine titer and whether it would be beneficial to include it into the existing sequence of techniques used to compare colorless fibers. The extent of intra-garment variation and the possible effects of tape and mounting media residues on the elemental analysis were also investigated. The results confirmed the high value of fluorescence microscopy within the existing examination sequence and showed that single fiber analysis using X-ray fluorescence microanalysis is not only feasible, but improved the discriminating power between such colorless samples by about 50%.
More on the Uniqueness of Gunshot Residue (GSR) Particles
Authors: Zeichner A , Levin N
Published: August 2015

The question of “accepted uniqueness” of several types of GSR particles is discussed. Based on our experience, we propose to include GSR particles formed in firing the Sellier Bellot, Prague (SBP) ammunition in the group of “unique” GSR particles. With the advent of autosearch systems for GSR analysis in crime labs, a better statistical basis for the extent of uniqueness of various types of GSR particles may be achieved.
Extraction of Single-Copy Nuclear DNA from Forensic Specimens with a Variety of Postmortem Histories
Authors: Evison MP , Smillie DM , Chamberlain AT
Published: August 2015

Specimens of human bone, teeth and dried blood spots from 3 months to 91 years old, with a variety of postmortem histories, were used in a comparative study of recovery of single-copy nuclear DNA sequences from forensic material. Sequences of the amelogenin and HLA-DPB1 genes were chosen for their value in sexing and identification. Sequences of the mitochondrial non-coding region V were also amplified to compare the recovery of mitochondrial and single-copy nuclear DNA. A variation of the silica method for DNA extraction was refined for application to the forensic specimens in this sample. Single-copy nuclear DNA was amplified from 100% of recent postoperative bone specimens (n = 6), 80% of forensic teeth and bone specimens (n = 10), 78% of recently extracted teeth (n = 18), 78% of exhumed bone up to 91 years old (n = 37) and 69% of 15 year old bone specimens fixed in 10% formalin (n = 20). Amelogenin sexing was correct in 85% of cases (n = 74) in which the sex of the donor had been recorded. There was no correlation between the age of the specimen and the extent of DNA preservation.
Pyromania? What Does It Mean?
Authors: Geller JL , McDermeit M , Brown J-M
Published: August 2015

Pyromania, despite an explicit definition spelled out in successive editions of the American Psychiatric Association's Diagnostic and Statistical Manual since 1980, remains an elusive concept. While rarely diagnosed by psychiatrists, pyromania is a label frequently applied by law enforcement and fire fighting/investigation personnel. To test the understanding of pyromania by these professions, the F.B.I. collected data from participants at advanced fire investigation training sessions, specifically asking them to write out their understanding of pyromania. This paper reports on the data obtained from 603 respondents. The results indicate a remarkably poor understanding of pyromania. The authors examined sources of information available to law enforcement and fire fighting/investigation professionals and found the sources to be generally as misinformed as they are. The authors conclude that the professions of psychiatry, law enforcement and fire fighting/investigation must have better source material available to them and must share information better if we are to decrease the threats posed by the ineffectual differentiation of the causes of serial arson.
Sex Estimation from the Metatarsals
Authors: Robling AG , Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

Discriminant-function analysis of osteometric data from the metatarsals of 200 individuals in the Terry Collection provides a reliable method for estimating sex. Functions derived from individual metatarsals and from complete sets of metatarsals are tested on the sample used to generate the functions and on two independent samples: one comprising 25 additional individuals from the Terry Collection and the other comprising 12 cadavers donated to the University of Missouri. Functions based on race-specific samples (blacks and whites) and on the pooled-race sample correctly classify 83 to 100% of each sample (including a jackknifed study sample), with a few exceptions. These results are similar to sex-estimation methods from other regions of the appendicular skeleton.
HIV Seroprevalence Rates Among Homicide Victims in New York City: 1991–1993
Authors: Tardiff K , Marzuk PM , Leon AC , Hirsch CS , Stajic M , Portera L , Hartwell N
Published: August 2015

This study assessed HIV seroprevalence in homicide victims killed in New York City in 1991–1993, using data from the Office of Chief Medical Examiner. Among 5852 homicide victims there were 344 (5.9%) victims who were HIV positive. Females were just as likely as males to be HIV positive. For females, the highest rates were in the 25–34 year (11.7%) and 35–44 year (12.6%) age categories. For males the highest rates were in the 35–44 year (13.7%) and 45–54 year (11.5%) age categories. Other than there being no HIV positive Asian victims, there were no differences in HIV rates among racial/ethnic groups. The highest rates of HIV infection for homicide victims were among those using both opiates and cocaine (males: 23.0%; females: 27.3%). Women, not men, using cocaine alone had a high HIV positive rate (18.4%). Victims not using these drugs had rates of HIV around 2%. The authors believe that the high risk of HIV among homicide victims, may be due to the use of cocaine and associated risky use of needles and risky sex practices.
Midge Larvae (Diptera: Chironomidae) as Indicators of Postmortem Submersion Interval of Carcasses in a Woodland Stream: a Preliminary Report
Authors: Keiper JB , Chapman EG , Foote BA
Published: August 2015

Data on colonization of rat carcasses by aquatic insects in riffle and pool areas of a small woodland stream were obtained to elucidate patterns potentially useful for determining the postmortem submersion interval of corpses in flowing water habitats. After 39 days, the carcasses had no visual signs of deterioration in the absence of large scavenging animals. Midge larvae (Diptera: Chironomidae) were the dominant insects colonizing the carcasses. No patterns in numbers of larvae over time were evident, but the diversity of genera increased after 29 days in the riffle. Also, Orthocladius larvae did not begin to colonize the carcasses until after 13 days of submersion in the riffle and after 20 days of submersion in the pool. Although separated only by 20 m, the riffle and pool rats had dissimilar faunal assemblages. This suggests that different indices for determining the postmortem submersion interval of corpses based on midge larvae colonization should be developed for these two habitats. This investigation does not provide replicated data, but does shed light on what may happen to mammalian carcasses placed in a stream at a particular time of the year.
Concentration-Time Profiles of Ethanol in Arterial and Venous Blood and End-Expired Breath During and After Intravenous Infusion
Authors: Jones AW , Norberg Å , Hahn RG
Published: August 2015

Ethanol (0.40 g/kg) was administered to 13 healthy men by intravenous (i.v.) infusion at a constant rate for 30 min. The concentrations of ethanol in arterial blood (ABAC), venous blood (VBAC), and end-expired breath (BrAC) were measured at 17 exactly timed intervals. Blood-ethanol was determined by headspace gas chromatography and breath-ethanol was measured with a quantitative infrared analyzer (DataMaster). BrAC was multiplied by 2300 to estimate the concentrations of alcohol in blood. During the infusion of ethanol, ABAC exceeded VBAC by about 10 mg/dL on the average and ABAC was also higher than BrAC × 2300 by about 4 mg/dL on average. When infusion of alcohol ended, ABAC, VBAC, and BrAC were 94.8 ± 2.06 (±SE), 84.7 ± 1.54, and 89.3 ± 2.10 mg/dL, respectively. The concentrations of alcohol in blood (ABAC and VBAC) and breath decreased abruptly after the administration of alcohol stopped and by 5 min postinfusion, the A-V differences in concentration of ethanol were small or negligible. The mean apparent half-life of the distribution plunge was 7 to 8 min, being about the same for ABAC, VBAC, and BrAC. The disappearance rate of ethanol was 15.5 ± 0.55 mg/dL/h (mean ± SE) for arterial blood, 15.2 ± 0.49 mg/dL/h for venous blood, and 16.3 ± 0.73 mg/230 L/h for breath; no significant differences were noted (p > 0.05). We conclude that A-V differences in the concentration of ethanol exist during the loading phase but are rapidly abolished when the administration of ethanol terminates. In the post-absorptive phase of ethanol kinetics, when alcohol has mixed with the total body water, VBAC exceeds ABAC by about 1–2 mg/100 mL on average.
1996 Honorable Mention Papers by Fellows in the AAFS Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Section
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

The year 1996 marked the twentieth anniversary of one of the most important projects in forensic psychiatry, the creation in 1976 of the American Board of Forensic Psychiatry, Inc. (ABFP). Many forensic psychiatrists are not aware of the fact that the ABFP was initially solely sponsored by the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Similarly, most practitioners do not know that the leadership for creating the ABFP came from a forensic psychiatrist, former AAFS President, Maier I. Tuchler, M.D. The ABFP provided a method for distinguishing between those who merely asserted their competence in forensic psychiatry and those who successfully demonstrated their competence in the field.
Who Does the Family Court Refer for Psychiatric Services?
Authors: Gunter-Justice TD , Ott DA
Published: August 2015

Demographic differences between adolescents referred for psychiatric services by the Family Court and by facility staff at a state-run juvenile justice evaluation center are examined. Those groups are then compared to the facility's general population. It is concluded that race, gender, age, and judicial discretion are the factors that distinguish court-referred adolescents from their counterparts referred by facility staff and in the general population.
Forensic Analysis and Psycholegal Implications of Parricide and Attempted Parricide
Authors: Weisman AM , Sharma KK
Published: August 2015

In a retrospective archive study, 64 adjudicated adult cases involving the murder or attempted murder of at least one parent, referred for forensic evaluations are described. Biographic, demographic, diagnostic, crime scene, psycholegal opinion, and disposition data are presented. Results indicated a 40% rate of insanity acquitees. Attempted parricide subjects were more likely to have inpatient psychiatric histories, witnesses present during the criminal act, nonresponsiveness towards their actions, competency raised, and a hospital disposition. Gender and ethnicity were found to have a significant effect on ultimate disposition. Fifty-four percent of the sample opined psychotic were sentenced to prison, suggesting other factors considered by judge and jury. Profile characteristics and typologies are presented. The findings are compared to studies involving parricide and legal strategies involving similar cases.
A Pilot Study Using the First Cervical Vertebra as an Indicator of Race
Authors: Marino EA
Published: August 2015

The articular surfaces and vertebral foramen of the first cervical vertebra can be used to estimate race from complete and fragmentary specimens. Eight measurements taken from 200 vertebrae from the Terry and Hamann-Todd collections (Smithsonian Institution and Cleveland Museum of Natural History, respectively) were used to construct 13 discriminant functions that predict race with 76–60% accuracy.
Black Market in Anabolic Steroids—Analysis of Illegally Distributed Products
Authors: Musshoff F , Daldrup T , Ritsch M
Published: August 2015

Anabolic steroids found in the illegal market often do not contain ingredients declared on the label. Forty-two products encountered in the illegal distribution channels were analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Fifteen of the products did not contain the expected ingredients. Mainly, counterfeits of parabolan and primobolan products were found. Instead of trenbolone or metenolone, the cheaper agents nandrolone or testosterone derivatives were identified. In one product the gestagene progesterone was found. In two other cases no steroid was present or tocopherole was substituted.
Comparison of Three DNA Extraction Methods on Bone and Blood Stains up to 43 Years Old and Amplification of Three Different Gene Sequences
Authors: Cattaneo C , Craig OE , James NT , Sokol RJ
Published: August 2015

Extraction of amplifiable DNA from degraded human material in the forensic context remains a problem, and maximization of yield and elimination of inhibitors of the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) are important issues which rarely feature in comparative studies. The present work used PCR amplification of three DNA sequences (HLA DPB1, amelogenin and mitochondrial) to assess the efficiency of three methods for extracting DNA (sodium acetate, magnetic beads and glass-milk) from 32 skeletal samples and 25 blood stains up to 43 years old. The results, analyzed using multivariate statistics, confirmed that the extraction method was crucial to the subsequent detection of amplification products; the glass-milk protocol performed better than sodium acetate, which was better than magnetic beads. Successful amplification also depended on gene sequence, multiple copy mitochondrial sequences performing best; however, with the singly copy sequences, the longer HLA DPB1 (327 bp) being detected just as often as the shorter amelogenin (106/112 bp). Amplification products were obtained more frequently from blood stains than bone, perhaps reflecting differences inherent in the material, and from younger compared with older specimens, though plateauing seemed to occur after 10 years. PCR inhibitors were more frequent in sodium acetate extracts.
Austrian Caucasian Population Data for the Quadruplex Plus Amelogenin: Refined Mutation Rate for HumvWFA31/A
Authors: Ambach E , Parson W , Niederstätter H , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Human identification of biological specimens has undergone immense change since the development of PCR typing systems for forensic casework. In contrast to RFLP and VNTRs, STRs are the method of choice when the investigated genomic DNA is present in low quantity or in degraded shape. In the current study, the X-Y homologous gene Amelogenin has been added to a widely used multiplex PCR amplification system consisting of four tetrameric STR loci (Quadruplex—HumTH01, HumvWFA31/A, HumFES/FPS, and HumF13A1). The modified Quadruplex was used to type 382 unrelated Caucasians from Western Austria. The population data meet Hardy-Weinberg and linkage equilibrium expectations, and do not show significant deviations from either US, German, and Turkish Caucasian databases. In an investigation of 382 meioses, two mutations were revealed at the HumvWFA31/A locus. Consequently, the data in this paper provide the conditions for adding Amelogenin to the Quadruplex, and suggest that when doing paternity testing, the mutation rate for the HumvWFA31/A locus must be considered.
Validation Studies for the Genetic Typing of the D1S80 Locus for Implementation into Forensic Casework
Authors: Gross AM , Carmody G , Guerrieri RA
Published: August 2015

A series of validation experiments were designed to evaluate, according to the Technical Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (TWGDAM) guidelines, the analysis of the D1S80 locus for casework implementation. Approximately 400 samples from three different populations (Minnesota Caucasians, Minnesota African Americans, and Minnesota Native Americans) were typed to determine allele frequencies. Simulated forensic type specimens (blood, saliva, hair and semen, or vaginal secretions) were typed to demonstrate that deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from various tissues of an individual yield the same D1S80 type.

Dilution studies were performed and it was determined that a wide range of input DNA (0.5 ng to 40.0 ng) will consistently yield typeable results. The evaluation of DNA from various animals showed that the D1S80 locus is specific to human DNA within the limits of the parameters tested. The reproducibility of the system was tested by duplicate analysis of approximately 200 population samples. Duplicate samples were analyzed on both horizontal and vertical gel systems. In addition, simulated forensic specimens were analyzed by two independent laboratories: the Minnesota Forensic Science Laboratory (MFSL) and the Roche Biomedical Laboratories (RBL). All analyses, including extraction, quantitation, amplification and typing, were performed independently. All typing results for both laboratories were in agreement.

By the analysis of mixtures from various simulated casework type mixtures, it was demonstrated that the D1S80 typing system is suitable for analyzing mixtures. In addition to the simulated casework, evidentiary samples from several adjudicated cases previously analyzed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis and/or DQA1 were typed at the D1S80 locus. The D1S80 results were consistent with previous RFLP and/or DQA1 results regarding inclusions/exclusions.
Analysis of Allele Distribution for Six Short Tandem Repeat Loci in the French Canadian Population of Québec
Authors: Busque L , Desmarais D , Provost S , Schumm JW , Zhong Y , Chakraborty R
Published: August 2015

Short tandem repeat (STR) loci represent a rich source of highly polymorphic markers in the human genome which are useful for the purposes of forensic identification and determination of biological relatedness of individuals. Here, as a part of an ongoing extensive study, we report the analysis of a multilocus genotype survey of 642 to 870 chromosomes in the French Canadian Caucasian population of Québec at six STR loci. The loci HUMCS-FIPO, HUMTPOX, HUMTH01, HUMF13A01, HUMFESFPS, and HUMvWA were typed using two multiplex polymerase chain reactions (PCR). Amplified DNA samples were subsequently analyzed by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by silver staining. The heterozygote frequencies of the loci range from 0.614 to 0.820 (0.661 to 0.818 expected) and the number of alleles from 7 to 12 per locus. Although statistically significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg expectations of genotype frequencies was noted at some loci by one or more tests, in general, the genotype frequencies are well estimated from the product of allele frequencies at all loci. The most frequent six-locus genotype is expected to occur in the French Canadian population with a frequency of 3.50 by 10−5 and together, these six loci have an average probability of discrimination of 0.9999985. The study presented here indicates that these six STR loci are informative genetic markers for identity testing purposes in the French Canadian Caucasian population of Québec.
The Effects of Blood Transfusions on PCR DNA Typing at the CSF1P0, TP0X, TH01, D1S80, HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8 and GC Loci
Authors: Brauner P , Shpitzen M , Freund M , Manny N
Published: August 2015

Pre-transfusion and post-transfusion blood samples from eight individuals were typed at 10 PCR amplified loci. In no case did the PCR DNA profile of the post-transfusion blood sample differ from that of the pre-transfusion profile.
Molecular Detection of JC Virus in Embalmed, Formalin-Fixed, Paraffin-Embedded Brain Tissue
Authors: Amaker BH , Chandler FW , Huey LO , Colwell RM
Published: August 2015

Embalmed tissues are adequate for the detection of JC virus in lesions of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) by immunohistologic and molecular methods. JC virus was readily detected in embalmed brain tissue using immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Two brains were removed from bodies that had been embalmed at least 24 h prior to autopsy. They were subsequently post fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 10–14 days before dissection and molecular studies weere performed. Though these techniques are not novel, their use in embalmed tissues is. Routine embalming should not eliminate these diagnostic procedures from consideration.
GC/MS Confirmation of Barbiturates in Blood and Urine
Authors: Meatherall R
Published: August 2015

A gas chromatography-mass spectrometric method is described for the quantitative measurement of 6 commonly used barbiturates in blood and urine specimens. The targeted barbiturates are butalbital, amobarbital, pentobarbital, secobarbital, mephobarbital and phenobarbital. They are recovered along with the internal standard, tolybarb, from blood and urine using liquid extraction then alkalated to form the N-ethyl derivatives. The ethylated barbiturates have symmetrical peaks which are well separated from each other on a non-polar methylsilicone capillary column. The derivatives facilitate quantitations between 50 and 10,000 ng/mL. The day-to-day CVs for all 6 barbiturates were between 4 and 9% at 200 and 5000 ng/mL.

The method has been extended for identifying other acidic drugs and drug metabolites. They are mainly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, diuretics, and anticonvulsants. An additional 83 compounds can be qualitatively identified.
A False Report of Product Tampering Involving a Rodent and Soft Drink Can: Light Microscopy, Image Analysis and Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis
Authors: Platek SF , Ranieri N , Wolnik KA
Published: August 2015

The “Pepsi® Tamperings” of 1993 resulted in a large number of cases involving foreign objects reportedly found inside canned soft drinks. Although the majority of cases involved medical syringes and metallic objects, one case involved the report of a mouse found inside a can of Caffeine-Free Diet Pepsi. Using light and polarized light microscopy and computer-assisted image analysis, trace evidence and tooth structure from the suspect mouse were matched to scratches and indentions on the suspect can. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analysis were used to compare and match particles of gnawed metal from the lid of the suspect can to other particles recovered from the muzzle and stomach of the suspect mouse. The forensic analyses in this case proved the mouse could not have been canned in the soft drink product and refuted the defendant's sworn statements.
Estimation of Postmortem Interval Based on Colony Development Time for Anoplolepsis longipes (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Goff ML , Win BH
Published: August 2015

The postmortem interval for a set of human remains discovered inside a metal tool box was estimated using the development time required for a stratiomyid fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), Hermetia illucens, in combination with the time required to establish a colony of the ant Anoplolepsis longipes (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) capable of producing alate (winged) reproductives. This analysis resulted in a postmortem interval estimate of 14 + months, with a period of 14–18 months being the most probable time interval. The victim had been missing for approximately 18 months.
A Killing of Baby Doe
Authors: Harris LS
Published: August 2015

An anencephalic infant died in the Neonatal Intensive Care unit six hours after birth. Eighteen months later, in a discussion of intrusive federal “Baby Doe” regulations with co-workers at the hospital, a registered nurse mentioned that he had found a way to avoid these provisions, and that he had in fact done so on one occasion by killing this particular infant. A co-worker related his story to police, and the “wheels of justice” were set into motion. I describe the chronology of events and the pathologic findings in this case of infanticide, purportedly committed “with mercyaforethought.”
Two Traffic Fatalities Related to the Use of Difluoroethane
Authors: Broussard LA , Brustowicz T , Pittman T , Atkins KD , Presley L
Published: August 2015

The 18-year-old white male driver and 17-year-old white male passenger of an automobile were killed when their vehicle crossed the median of a 4-lane highway and collided with a minivan. A can of airbrush propellant was found in the automobile of the deceased. The only drug detected during initial toxicological analyses was 130 mg/L ethanol in the blood of the driver. When performing ethanol analysis by headspace gas chromatography, an unidentified peak was observed in the blood of both deceased. This peak was identified as difluoroethane (Freon 152), the propellant in the aerosol can found in the automobile. The concentrations of difluoroethane in the blood of the driver and passenger were 78 mg/L and 35 mg/L, respectively. Based on a literature search we believe that this is the first report of the quantitation of difluoroethane in biological samples.
Ethical Practice in the Forensic Sciences—An Introduction
Authors: Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

It is always difficult to function at the intersection of two disciplines, in this case, science and law. Science reaches tentative conclusions ever subject to change in the advent of the discovery of new data. The law would like definite conclusions in order to make definitive decisions, sometimes with literally life and death implications, necessitating opinions having “reasonable scientific certainty.” However, there can be pressure to express unwarranted certainty not necessarily justified by the scientific evidence. In gray cases it may be tempting to give an opinion for the side doing the hiring or there can be subtle or not so subtle pressure to do so, especially if it involves pleasing an employer or could result in substantial sums of money for the “right” opinion.
Foundations of Ethical Practice in the Forensic Sciences
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

This paper presents an introduction to moral philosophy to assist forensic scientists in thinking more clearly about ethics. A four step model for the analysis of problems is provided. A logical model for reasoned arguments is offered. Two common objections to claims of objective foundations for ethics are considered and criticized. Two leading theories of objective foundations for ethics are considered and criticized. It is suggested that further research in ethics is needed to develop intellectual structures and tools adequate to resolve questions about what constitutes evidence in ethics and how to adjudicate between conflicting ethical theories. The task for forensic scientists is to develop interim ethical guidelines for practice despite the current absence of universally accepted objective foundations for ethics.
A Member of the Roy Rogers Riders Club Is Expected to Follow the Rules Faithfully
Authors: Nordby JJ
Published: August 2015

When I was five years old I joined The Roy Rogers Riders Club, along with every other kid in the neighborhood. I approached my first code of conduct with unbridled enthusiasm. Members, Roy said, were “expected to follow the rules faithfully.” I tried. But I soon learned not only that I didn't follow them, but that I couldn't. Let me explain.
Physician-Assisted Suicide and the Doctrine of Double Effect
Authors: Kamm FM
Published: August 2015

In this paper, I try to show how the clash between two different types of ethical theory—consequentialist and nonconsequentialist—affects moral and legal arguments for physician assisted suicide (PAS) and euthanasia (E). I begin by presenting a three-step argument for the permissibility of PAS and E, and then examine two possible criticisms of this argument. In conclusion, I consider how the possible further consequences of permitting PAS are dealt with by proponents of the two ethical theories.
Ethics and Value Bias in the Forensic Sciences
Authors: Macklin R
Published: August 2015

This article focuses on ethical problems that arise in the practical sphere when professionals and scholars enter the forensic arena. Two different yet related stories from the author's experience are recounted. The first is drawn from the author's membership on the blue-ribbon committee convened by the National Research Council of the National Academy of Sciences, which issued the report entitled DNA Technology in Forensic Science in 1992. The second is an inquiry into the role of the bioethicist in the forensic setting, based on the author's response to cases in which she was invited to serve as an expert witness. The article concludes that since the forensic sciences deal with matters of truth and justice, a commitment to uphold these important values forms the moral basis for justifying the actions of those who work in this field.
Comments from the Perspective of the AAFS Ethics Committee Chairman
Authors: Mills DH
Published: August 2015

Some of us are lawyers. We are informed they have a code of ethics. Doctors, dentists and other professionals have theirs, too. Those among us who work in fields without formal codes are still obliged to act ethically. But when we come together in the American Academy of Forensic Sciences, we take on a special group identity: we are all expert scientists and witnesses devoted to developing and presenting scientific evidence and opinions in the administration of justice. Though our efforts and focus are as diverse as our sections imply, each of us seeks to be heard and believed, compelling the creation of a code applicable to all of us. I chronicled the origin of the Academy's code in 1986 (1). I propose now to describe how it has functioned for the first 20 years.
Review of “The Expert Witness Handbook, Tips and Techniques for the Litigation Consultant, 2nd edition”
Authors: Garner DD
Published: August 2015

The author, who published the first edition in 1987, has over 20 years experience as an expert witness in parachute cases. This experience has significantly impacted the scope and tone of the book. The “Handbook” is primarily focused on civil litigation involving engineering issues, as illustrated by the author's observation in Chapter 1 that “[m]any experts are independent consultants. Others work for large forensic engineering finns which provide a wide range of services.”
Review of the Role of the Expert Witness in a Court Trial. (A Guide for the Expert Witness.)
Authors: Zimmerly JG
Published: August 2015

This very brief text is intended as a “guide for the expert witness.” Areas covered include preparation of the consultant or witness, fees, credibility, qualifications of an expert, deposition testimony/direct and cross examination and suggestions on being an effective witness. Two appendices deal with demonstrative evidence and a third contains a glossary of legal terms.