bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do Resemblance Ratings Measure the Accuracy of Facial Approximations?
Authors: Stephan CN
Published: August 2015

Since forensic facial approximations are used to promote recognition of a deceased person, an accurate forensic facial approximation (FFA) should be easily recognized as the person to whom the skull belonged (target individual). However, the accuracy of FFAs has been previously assessed by the direct comparison of an FFA to the corresponding target individual for similarity (i.e., a resemblance rating). Resemblance ratings may not indicate a facial approximation's accuracy since the resemblance of non-target individuals is not accounted for. This experiment tests the validity of using resemblance ratings to assess the accuracy of FFAs. The study indicates that there is no statistically significant difference between: (a) resemblance ratings of FFAs to target individuals and (b) resemblance ratings of FFAs to individuals incorrectly identified as the target individual. It is concluded that it is not possible from resemblance ratings to determine the accuracy and/or quality of a facial approximation since a non-target individual may receive a resemblance rating equal to, or higher than, the target individual.
A Study of the Effects of a Micelle Encapsulator Fire Suppression Agent on Dynamic Headspace Analysis of Fire Debris Samples
Authors: McGee E , Lang TL
Published: August 2015

The effects of a Micelle Encapsulator Fire Suppression Agent (F-500, Hazard Control Technologies Inc., Fayetteville, Georgia) on the routine analysis of fire debris samples by Gas Chromatography (GC) were studied. When mixed with water the product can be used in the suppression of Class A and Class B fires. Laboratory tests were performed to determine whether or not the product has any effect on the analysis for ignitable liquids by GC, in particular for gasoline, medium petroleum distillates, and heavy petroleum distillates. Test burns were suppressed using either the micelle encapsulator or water and samples collected from these burns were analyzed. The results of analysis show that use of the micelle encapsulator at a fire scene may affect the chromatographic data obtained from samples collected by the investigator. However, the effect does not prevent the identification of common ignitable liquids in fire debris samples.
Classification of Narcotics in Solid Mixtures Using Principal Component Analysis and Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Ryder AG
Published: August 2015

Eighty-five solid samples consisting of illegal narcotics diluted with several different materials were analyzed by near-infrared (785 nm excitation) Raman spectroscopy. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to classify the samples according to narcotic type. The best sample discrimination was obtained by using the first derivative of the Raman spectra. Furthermore, restricting the spectral variables for PCA to 2 or 3% of the original spectral data according to the most intense peaks in the Raman spectrum of the pure narcotic resulted in a rapid discrimination method for classifying samples according to narcotic type. This method allows for the easy discrimination between cocaine, heroin, and MDMA mixtures even when the Raman spectra are complex or very similar. This approach of restricting the spectral variables also decreases the computational time by a factor of 30 (compared to the complete spectrum), making the methodology attractive for rapid automatic classification and identification of suspect materials.
Fiery Tongues and Mystical Motivations: Glossolalia in a Forensic Population is Associated with Mania and Sexual/Religious Delusions
Authors: Hempel AG , Meloy JR , Stern R , Ozone SJ , Gray BT
Published: August 2015

Comparisons are made between a nonrandom sample of 18 glossolalists and 130 non-glossolalists admitted to a maximum-security forensic hospital. The glossolalic mentally disordered offender exhibited a predominance of diagnoses in the manic spectrum, and was typically psychotic. The delusions, hallucinations, and crimes were predominately of a religious and sexual nature. Glossolalist perpetrators tended to be female. We review the extant research on glossolalia in both normal and clinical samples, and integrate our findings, the first study of glossolalia in a forensic setting.
Double Parricide: Forensic Analysis and Psycholegal Implications
Authors: Weisman AM , Ehrenclou MG , Sharma KK
Published: August 2015

In a retrospective study, eleven adult parricidal forensic cases from Southern California are presented. Each case involves the murder of both parents and was referred for forensic evaluation. Common characteristics among the eleven cases are presented. Two case examples illustrate features of recognized adult parricidal subtypes. The findings are compared with studies involving parricide, double-parricide, and extant case law.
Changes in Composition of Ballpoint Pen Inks on Aging in Darkness
Authors: Andrasko J
Published: August 2015

A method for comparison of the relative age of ink entries written by the same ballpoint pen on documents stored in darkness is presented. Inks were extracted from the document and analyzed by HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography). On aging, changes in the chemical composition of the inks were noted. These changes were similar to those observed when inks were exposed to light or heat. The aging was followed by using ternary diagrams constructed for dyes generally present in blue-colored inks—Crystal Violet, Methyl Violet, and Tetramethyl Para Rosaniline. The procedure is applicable for relative dating of ink entries in diaries, notebooks, etc., where often several ink entries are written by the same ink. However, a prolonged exposure of the document to daylight and/or artificial light (light from fluorescent tubes) as well as to extensive heat will render the whole procedure inapplicable. An example of the use of the proposed method in casework is given.
Validation of a Radiographic Method to Establish New Fetal Growth Standards: Radio-Anatomical Correlation
Authors: Piercecchi-Marti MD , Adalian P , Bourliere-Najean B , Gouvernet J , Maczel M , Dutour O , Leonetti G
Published: August 2015

In forensic medicine, specialists might face difficulties when estimating age at death from fetal remains. Depending on the state of preservation, this age assessment is essentially based on the diaphyseal size of long bones. In a previous work, for the measurement of fetal femoral ossified shafts, we already established a simple and reliable method using a radiographic protocol. Since we previously stated that radiographic measurement values were closer to real anatomical size than ultrasonographic ones, in the present study we decided to check the importance of the difference between radiographic and anatomical measurements. Therefore, we dissected 30 pairs of fetal femurs and compared the difference between the two kinds of measurements (in percentages). This difference seemed to be slight (4.027%), but it was large enough to entail significant differences (p < 0.001). In order to provide a correction factor for radiographic measurements, we established a linear regression formula, which was tested on another sample of 30 pairs of dissected femurs. As a consequence of the good results, we improved the linear regression using a powerful statistical tool: the bootstrap. Finally, we obtained a simple equation that allowed us to figure out the real anatomical size with an R2 of 99% and a mean relative difference of 0.153% (with a standard error of 0.252 mm, and therefore a 95% confidence interval with limits of -0.35 and 0.657 mm). This difference did not entail any significant differences (p = 0.498), and therefore, we concluded that with the proposed correction, radiographic measurements can easily be used by forensic specialists in their daily tasks or to establish new growth standards in order to best fit their population of interest.
Extension of the Color Suite Available for Chemical Enhancement of Fingerprints in Blood
Authors: Caldwell JP , Kim ND
Published: August 2015

The use of ortho- and para-phenylenediamine (OPD & PPD respectively) for the enhancement of fingerprints in blood has been investigated. Optimal pH conditions and H2O2 concentrations have been determined using UV/Vis spectroscopy. Both OPD and PPD are effective and less hazardous alternatives to the presently used 3,3'-diaminobenzidine (DAB) for the development of blood fingerprints, especially on porous surfaces. The orange color of OPD and the purple color of PPD offer alternative colors to the brown color of DAB and the light green color of ABTS for standing out against particular backgrounds. Both OPD and PPD can be used after ninhydrin treatment, but the reverse is not the case.
Determination of ABO Blood Grouping from Human Oral Squamous Epithelium by the Highly Sensitive Immunohistochemical Staining Method EnVision+
Authors: Noda H , Yokota M , Tatsumi S , Sugiyama S
Published: August 2015

Using the highly sensitive immunohistochemical staining method EnVision+, which employs a dextran polymer reagent for the secondary antibody, the detection of the ABH antigens was attempted in the oral squamous epithelium. This new technique uses monoclonal antibody as a primary antibody and it takes about three hours for staining. The time is much shorter than conventional absorption-elution testing or absorption-inhibition testing for the determination of ABO blood grouping. Secretor saliva samples were stained at strong intensity by the antibody, which corresponded to its blood group and anti-H. On the one hand, nonsecretor saliva samples were stained at strong intensity only by the antibody that corresponded to its blood group, and at weak intensity only by anti-H. Since human oral squamous epithelium antigens were stained specifically by this method, we can examine the ABO blood group of saliva samples and perform cytodiagnosis at the same time.

Our research suggested that the EnVision+ Method is a useful technique for ABO blood grouping of saliva in forensic cases.
Detection of a Primer-Binding Site Polymorphism for the STR Locus D16S539 Using the Powerplex® 1.1 System and Validation of a Degenerate Primer to Correct for the Polymorphism
Authors: Nelson MS , Levedakou EN , Matthews JR , Early BE , Freeman DA , Kuhn CA , Sprecher CJ , Amin AS , McElfresh KC , Schumm JW
Published: August 2015

Quality assurance samples submitted from the NCSBI as part of a contract with TBTG to outsource DNA Database samples showed unexpected discrepancies for the locus D16S539 when all other loci yielded identical results. Discrepancies observed included allele drop out and an imbalance in sister alleles with samples returned from TBTG. This led to a comprehensive review of the technical procedures used between the two laboratories to determine the cause of the discrepancies noted for the locus D16S539, since both laboratories were using the PowerPlex® 1.1 typing kit from the Promega Corporation. The NCSBI and the TBTG utilize different extraction methods (organic extraction vs. FTA) and amplification conditions (AmpliTaq® vs AmpliTaq Gold®), respectively, so the exact cause of discrepancy observed was not immediately apparent. Experiments at the NCSBI associated the observed allele drop out and the imbalance of the sister alleles with the use of AmpliTaq Gold® and a hot start procedure.

Sequencing data revealed that a point mutation resides on the D16S539 primer-binding site that reaches polymorphic levels in African-American populations. This led to the development of a degenerate primer by the Promega Corporation to detect “missing” alleles when AmpliTaq Gold® is used. The degenerate primer was then thoroughly tested to show its efficacy in detecting the “true” D16S539 profile when used.
Digital Imaging Methods as an Aid in Dental Identification of Human Remains
Authors: Bowers CM , Johansen RJ
Published: August 2015

The physical comparison of known (K) and questioned (Q) evidence samples is an accepted tool in numerous forensic identification disciplines (1). A subset of this process is the use of antemortem and postmortem dental radiographs to identify unidentified human remains. This method has been generally accepted for decades (2). The outcome is performed with a considerable degree of accuracy, due in part to a finite pool of possible candidates for identification derived via the NCIC database, passenger lists, and law enforcement Missing Persons reports. This paper describes a dental identification comparison protocol that incorporated digital imaging technology in this process. The computer was used to create digital exemplars of the K and Q evidence that were spatially and quantitatively compared (3).

The digital mode allowed direct metric and morphologic comparison through the aid of a digital camera, desktop computer, monitor, and printer. The well-known computer program Adobe® Photoshop ® 5.0 (4) was used to process the digital information in two forensic cases described in this paper. It is a commercially available digital imaging editing program that is operated on laptop and desktop computers possessing sufficient chip speed and RAM (Pentium II or equivalent and at least 76MB RAM) to open the large-size files generated by high-resolution digital capture devices.

This program accepts raster-based image formats (e.g. .JPG, .BMP). Photoshop® is noted for its diverse imaging functions, which allow the computer monitor to be used as a comparison microscope when Q and K sample images are tiled side-by-side and/or superimposed. Two and three-dimensional Q and K evidence samples can be individually digitized and then independently resized to allow two-dimensional comparison. The investigator also has the ability to create magnified images (200% to 300%) when the original digital image has been captured at near photoquality resolution (300 dpi). The visual comparison of physical features on the computer monitor permits a large field of view and robust digital control over image quality. Photographic measurement and enhancement features of Adobe® Photoshop® mimics and in some circumstances surpasses the historic use of conventional photographic manipulation in forensic casework.

This paper presents two cases processed via routine forensic odontology identification protocols. These protocols had minimal results due to limitations described in the case histories. The additional application of digital methods proved useful in the ultimate identification of these human remains.
Concentrations of Unconjugated Morphine, Codeine and 6-Acetylmorphine in Urine Specimens from Suspected Drugged Drivers
Authors: Ceder G , Jones AW
Published: August 2015

Concentrations of unconjugated morphine, codeine and 6-acetylmorphine (6-AM), the specific metabolite of heroin, were determined in urine specimens from 339 individuals apprehended for driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) in Sweden. After an initial screening analysis by immunoassay for 5-classes of abused drugs (opiates, cannabinoids, amphetamine analogs, cocaine metabolite and benzodiazepines), all positive specimens were verified by more specific methods. Opiates and other illicit drugs were analyzed by isotope-dilution gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The limits of quantitation for morphine, codeine and 6-AM in urine were 20 ng/mL. Calibration plots included an upper concentration limit of 1000 ng/mL for each opiate. We identified the heroin metabolite 6-AM in 212 urine specimens (62%) at concentrations ranging from 20 ng/mL to ≻ 1000 ng/mL. The concentration of 6-AM exceeded 1000 ng/mL in 79 cases (37%) and 31 cases (15%) were between 20 and 99 ng/mL. When 6-AM was present in urine the concentration of morphine was above 1000 ng/mL in 196 cases (92%). The concentrations of codeine in these same urine specimens were more evenly distributed with 35% being above 1000 ng/mL and 21% below 100 ng/mL. These results give a clear picture of the concentrations of unconjugated morphine, codeine and 6-acetylmorphine that can be expected in opiate-positive urine specimens from individuals apprehended for DUID after taking heroin.
Restoration of Obliterated Painted Registration Number on Vehicle
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu G , Hemalatha M , Kuppuswamy R
Published: August 2015

A simple technique employed for the restoration of the obliterated painted registration number on a motor vehicle involved in a case of murder is described.
An Unusual Oxidation Type on Bulb Filament after a Car Crash Dive
Authors: Baudoin P , Lavabre R , Vayne F
Published: August 2015

A car with two dead bodies trapped inside was discovered in a gravel pit. The main hypothesis of investigators was a traffic accident simulation by night. Examination of a broken lightbulb revealed both a rather unusual oxidation type and small rounded cavities never reported before. Tests were performed and allowed forensic scientists to establish that the lightbulbs were switched on during the crash dive, in contrast with the investigators idea.
Nutrient Canals of the Alveolar Process as an Anatomic Feature for Dental Identifications
Authors: Fielding CG
Published: August 2015

Nutrient canals are anatomic structures of the alveolar bone through which neurovascular elements transit to supply teeth and supporting structures. A dental identification using a nutrient canal of the mandibular alveolar process as the most compelling anatomic feature for antemortem-postmortem radiographic comparison is described. Nutrient canals as a potential marker for clinical disease is also discussed.
The Spectrum of Intramyocardial Small Vessel Disease Associated with Sudden Death
Authors: Veinot JP , Johnston B , Acharya V , Healey J
Published: August 2015

Intramyocardial small vessel abnormalities are not commonly recognized. The best known abnormality is fibromuscular dysplasia involving the sinoatrial or atrioventricular nodal arteries. Small vessel disease has been reported as an isolated cardiac anomaly in individuals with sudden death, and may also be associated with other cardiac conditions including hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and mitral valve prolapse. The nature of the association is unknown, and the mechanism causing sudden death is sometimes obscure. We describe pathological changes of the intramyocardial small vessels of three individuals with sudden death. Abnormalities involved small vessels at different levels. In all the cases, the abnormalities were thought to have caused or contributed to the individual's death. The possible mechanisms of this are discussed.
Cervical Fracture, Decapitation, and Vehicle-assisted Suicide
Authors: Byard RW , Gilbert JD
Published: August 2015

Two cases of vehicle-assisted suicides are described in males aged 33 and 24 years, respectively. In both cases the victims had tied ropes between stationary objects and their necks and then attempted to drive their vehicles away. The speed with which the vehicles were driven resulted in forces great enough to cause fracture-dislocation of the cervical spine in Case 1 and virtual decapitation in Case 2. Although inadvertent alteration of the death scene in Case 1, with removal of the rope, complicated the initial assessment, the extent of soft tissue and bony injuries was such that ligature strangulation appeared unlikely.
Spousal Homicide and the Subsequent Staging of a Sexual Homicide at a Distant Location
Authors: Meloy JR
Published: August 2015

The case of a 63-year-old man who killed his 52-year-old wife and then staged a sexual homicide at a distant location is reported. A review of all evidence, a forensic psychological interview, and psychological testing indicated that the murder was the result of a narcissistic rage reaction during which the subject beat his wife to death with a paint can, a clothing iron, and a rock. He then drove her body to a field 87.3 miles away, and positioned it in a manner that exposed her breasts and her underwear. He turned himself into the police two days later. There is no controlled empirical research on staging, although this single case supports the criminal investigative theory that staging exists, and is done to deliberately mislead homicide investigations (Douglas et al., 1992).
An Unusual Rubber Stamp Case
Authors: Moryan DD
Published: August 2015

Given a questioned document and a questioned preinked rubber stamp, comparisons of each can be made with a microscope or similar magnification device. If sufficient evidence exists, these questioned items can be linked even if the stamp was not used as it was originally designed.
Postmortem Blood and Vitreous Humor Ethanol Concentrations in a Victim of a Fatal Motor Vehicle Crash
Authors: Hardin GG
Published: August 2015

A 20-year-old male was found on the passenger side of a small car after a collision with a semi-trailer truck. Postmortem blood, collected from the chest cavity, and vitreous humor samples were collected following harvesting of the heart and bones. Gas chromatographic analysis revealed a blood ethanol concentration of 0.32 g/dL and a vitreous humor ethanol concentration of 0.09 g/dL. The stomach was intact and full of fluid and food, but its contents were not collected. Possible explanations for the large difference between the two results include diffusion of ethanol from the stomach into the chest cavity, contamination of the blood sample prior to collection, and ingestion of a large quantity of ethanol shortly before death. This case demonstrates the importance of proper quality assurance procedures in collecting postmortem specimens and of collecting a vitreous humor sample for ethanol analysis in postmortem toxicology cases.
Han Chinese Population Data for Ten STR Loci in Changsha, China
Authors: Ma Y , Gong B , Xia J , Deng H , Pan Q , Li Q , Dai H , Wen S , Xia K
Published: August 2015

Whole blood obtained by venipucture was collected in EDTA vacutainer tubes from unrelated individuals residing in Changsha, China. The DNA was extracted by phenol chloroform method (1). PCR amplification was performed using the AmpFlSTR Profiler Plus™ PCR amplification kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) following the manufacturer's protocol (2). The amplified products were separated and detected using the ABI Prism™ 377 DNA sequencer (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). The data were analyzed using The Promega Software, POWERSTATS.
Allele Frequencies for the AmpFlSTR Profiler Loci in a Colombian Population (Department of Boyaca)
Authors: Vargas CI , Castillo A , Gil AM , Pico AL , Garcia O
Published: August 2015

Whole blood samples were obtained in the genetics laboratory of the UIS (Universidad Industrial of Santander) and Boyaca Regional ICBF (Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar) from 183 unrelated Colombian donors (Department of Boyaca). Genomic DNA was extracted using the salting out procedure. PCR amplification was performed using the AmpFlSTR Profiler amplification kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) following manufacturer's instructions. The amplified products were separated and detected using the ABI 310 DNA sequencer (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Alleles were classified according to the recommendations of the ISFH (1). Statistical analysis was performed as previously reported (2). The complete data set is available to any interested researcher upon request from the corresponding author, Oscar Garcia, Ph.D.
Allele Frequencies for Eight STR Loci in a Population Sample from Sicily (Italy)
Authors: Asmundo A , Sapienza D , Crino C
Published: August 2015

Blood samples from healthy and unrelated individuals (n=135–150) were extracted by Chelex 100 procedure (1). DNA samples (5–25 ng) were amplified in a “PCR sprint” (Hybaid) thermal cycler and typed-classified according to the DNA commission of the ISFH (2). Allele and genotype frequencies were determined and Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was tested by aX2 method. From the genotype data, the power of discrimination (PD) according to the equation suggested by Fisher (3) was calculated. The heterozigosity value (OH) as described by Nei and Roychoudhury (4) was determined.
Allele Frequency Distribution at Five Y-Chromosomal Short Tandem Repeat Loci Among Five Distinct Ethnic Groups of India
Authors: Das B , Chauhan PS , Seshadri M
Published: August 2015

Genomic DNA was extracted using a rapid non-enzymatic method (1). The PCR primers and the parameters for PCR amplification of all the five Y-chromosomal STRs were as described by Kayser et al. (2) and de Knijff et al. (3). The forward primer of each locus was labeled with flourescent CY5™ dye amidite (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech) and PCR was carried out in a Hybaid™ thermal cycler using Taq polymerase (Roche Molecular Biochemicals). Amplimers were electrophoresed in 6% denaturing urea gel (7M) and analyzed by fragment manager using ALF Express DNA Sequencer (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech). Internal ladders were used for the accurate size determination. Allelic ladders were prepared for each locus and used as external standards in addition to CY5™ labelled 50 to 500 bp DNA ladder (Amersham Pharmacia Biotech). At each locus, the amplimers were compared with the standards, kindly supplied by Dr. Chris Tyler-Smith from Oxford University, Oxford, UK, for confirmation.
Indian Population Data for Two Tetrameric Short Tandem Repeat Loci—vWA and D3S1359
Authors: Ghosh A , Seshadri M
Published: August 2015

DNA Extraction—Rapid non-enzymatic salt precipitation method (1).
Distribution of Allele Frequencies for Two Short Tandem Repeats (HUMTH01 and F13A01) Among Five Indian Population Groups
Authors: Ghosh A , Seshadri M
Published: August 2015

DNA Extraction—Using rapid non-enzymatic method as per Lahiri and Numberger (1).
STR Data for the PowerPlex® 16 Loci in Buenos Aires Population (Argentina)
Authors: Gangitano DA , Gariofalo MG , Juvenal GJ , Budowle B , Lorente JA , Padula RA
Published: August 2015

DNA samples from 101 unrelated individuals were extracted by Chelex procedure (1) and then quantified using QuantiBlot® Human DNA Quantitation Kit according to the manufacturer's instructions (2). DNA samples (1 ng) were amplified and typed by PowerPlex® 16 System (3). The electrophoresis was carried out on the ABI PRISM® 377 DNA Sequencer using GeneScan® Genotyper® and PowerTyper™ 16 Macro software. Data were analyzed using a program provided by R. Chakraborty (University of Texas School of Biomedical Sciences, Houston, Texas). Interclass correlations yielding p < 0.05 for pairwise comparisons: TH01/D7S820, TH01/D8S1179, D18S51/D5S818, D18S51/D7S820, PentaE/PentaD, and D5S818/D16S539.
Y-Chromosome STR Haplotypes in Central-West African Immigrant in Spain Population Sample
Authors: Gamero J-J , Romero J-L , Gonzalez J-L , Carvalho M , Anjos M-J , Real FC , Vieira D-N , Vide M-C
Published: August 2015

Blood samples were obtained from 103 healthy unrelated black West African immigrant population in Spain from different countries situated to the south of the Sahara desert. The DNA was extracted using Chelex 100 protocol as described by Walsh et al. (1). The quantity of recovered DNA was determined using QuantiBlot® Human DNA Quantitation Kit (Perkin Elmer). DYS19, DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS390, and DYS393 were amplified as described by Gusmao et al. (2). The DYS385 amplification conditions complied with the methodology described by Schneider et al. (3). The PCR was performed in a Perkin Elmer 9600 thermocycler.
Characterization and Validation Studies of Powerplex™ 2.1, A Nine-locus Short Tandem Repeat (Str) Multiplex System and Penta D Monoplex
Authors: Levedakou EN , Freeman DA , Budzynski MJ , Early BE , Damaso RC , Pollard AM , Townley AJ , Gombos JL , Lewis JL , Kist FG , Hockensmith ME , Terwilliger ML , Amiott E , McElfresh KC , Schumm JW , Ulery SR , Konotop F , Sessa TL , Sailus JS , Crouse CA , Tomsey CS , Ban JD , Nelson MS
Published: August 2015

In order to increase the power of discrimination for human identification purposes, a nine-locus short tandem repeat (STR) multiplex, the GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 2.1 system (PowerPlex™ 2.1) developed by Promega Corporation and a separate pentanucleotide-repeat locus, Penta D, were tested. This megaplex system includes the highly polymorphic loci FGA, TPOX, D8S1179, vWA, Penta E, D18S51, D21S11, TH01, and D3S1358 and may be used in combination with the eight-locus STR multiplex, the GenePrint® PowerPlex™ 1.1 system (PowerPlex™ 1.1) that has been previously developed. Three of the loci, TPOX, TH01 and vWA, have been included in both systems for quality control purposes. As with PowerPlex™ 1.1, PowerPlex™ 2.1 is also based on a two-color detection of fluorescent-labeled DNA products amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and provides a valuable tool for accurate and rapid allele determination. The primer sequences used in the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system are also presented in this report. To meet the “Quality Assurance Standards for Forensic DNA Testing Laboratories” (FBI), we tested the efficiency and reproducibility of the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system by several validation studies that were conducted as a joint project among seven laboratories. Validation tests included concordance studies, sensitivity, and species specificity determination, as well as performance in forensic and environmentally impacted samples. The results produced from these tests demonstrated the consistency and reliability of the PowerPlex™ 2.1/Penta D system.
Recovery of Genomic Dna from Archived PCR Product Mixes for Subsequent Multiplex Amplification and Typing of Additional Loci: Forensic Significance for Older Unsolved Criminal Cases
Authors: Patchett KL , Cox KJ , Burns DM
Published: August 2015

A method for genomic DNA recovery from different types of PCR product mixes suitable for multiplex amplification and typing using the Profiler Plus™ STR typing system has been investigated. The application of this method is of significance in cases where the original DNA samples have been exhausted due to repeated typing analyses in an effort to maximize their evidentiary value. Such cases typically involve samples analyzed using the available DNA typing systems of the time which gave a markedly lower power of discrimination, either alone or in combination, compared to that of modern multiplex STR typing systems. It was found that an effective method for recovering genomic DNA from HLADQA1 _PM and CTT triplex amplification mixes, suitable for reproducible achievement of the complete Profiler Plus™ profile, involved the use of Amicon Microcon-100 microconcentrators. Interestingly, this method was not required to achieve the complete nine STR profile using D1S80 amplification mixes.
Validation of a 16-Locus Fluorescent Multiplex System
Authors: Krenke BE , Tereba A , Anderson SJ , Buel E , Culhane S , Finis CJ , Tomsey CS , Zachetti JM , Masibay A , Rabbach DR , Amiott EA , Sprecher CJ
Published: August 2015

STR multiplexes have been indispensable for the efficient genotyping of forensic samples. The PowerPlex® 16 System contains the core CODIS loci, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D21S11, CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, vWA, the sex determinant locus, amelogenin, and two pentanucleotide STR loci, Penta D and Penta E. This multiplex satisfies the locus requirements for most national databases and is the most efficient currently available system due to its single PCR amplification. To provide the groundwork for judicial acceptance, including the publication of primer sequences, and to evaluate laboratory-to-laboratory variation, a developmental validation for casework on this commercially available system was performed in 24 laboratories and produced the following conclusions. Amplification was reliable on a variety of thermal cyclers and product could be analyzed on either an ABI PRISM® 310 Genetic Analyzer or an ABI PRISM® 377 DNA Sequencer. Genotyping using single source samples was consistent between 0.25 and 2 ng of input DNA template with a few laboratories obtaining complete genotypes at 0.0625 ng. However, heterozygote allele imbalance (_60% peak height balance) caused by stochastic effects was observed at a rate of 13% with 0.125 ng DNA and 22% at 0.0625 ng DNA. Mixture analyses were done using a total of 1 ng of DNA template. Most alleles were detected in mixtures of 4 to 1 and some minor alleles were detected in mixtures of 19 to 1. Optimum amplification cycle number was dependent on the sensitivity of the detection instrument used and could also be adjusted to accommodate larger amounts of DNA on solid supports such as FTA® paper. Reaction conditions including volume, annealing temperature, and concentrations of primer, AmpliTaq Gold®, and magnesium were shown to be optimal yet robust enough to withstand moderate variations without affecting genotype analysis. Environmental, matrix and standard source analyses revealed an ability to obtain complete genotypes in all sample types except those exposed to 80°C for 12–48 days. Finally, comparison of genotype results from the PowerPlex® 16 System with other commercially available systems on non-probative reference and forensic samples showed consistent results.
Detection of Petrol (Gasoline) in Fire Debris by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS/MS)
Authors: de Vos B-J , Froneman M , Rohwer E , Sutherland DA
Published: August 2015

Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) is a well-known instrumental technique used for the analysis of fire debris for accelerant detection. However, matrix problems, such as pyrolysis product interference, are still encountered. These interferences often lead to inconclusive interpretation of the chromatographic results obtained.

This paper describes a method of analyzing arson accelerants using gas chromatography coupled with ion trap mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry (GC/MS/MS). Petrol was investigated as an accelerant. Analysis incorporated an ion preparation method (IPM) that manipulates the ion population in the ion trap following ionization but prior to ion analysis. Parent ions of selected mass-to-charge (m/z) values, characteristic for petrol, are stored within the ion trap. All other unwanted ions are physically removed from the trap by sophisticated electrostatic waveforms. The parent ions fill the trap and are then fragmented by means of collision-induced dissociation (CID). The resultant daughter ion spectra are obtained, which can be used for identification purposes. In this manner, ions of pyrolysis origin are removed.
Individuality of Handwriting
Authors: Srihari SN , Cha SH , Arora H , Lee S
Published: August 2015

Motivated by several rulings in United States courts concerning expert testimony in general, and handwriting testimony in particular, we undertook a study to objectively validate the hypothesis that handwriting is individual. Handwriting samples of 1500 individuals, representative of the U.S. population with respect to gender, age, ethnic groups, etc., were obtained. Analyzing differences in handwriting was done by using computer algorithms for extracting features from scanned images of handwriting. Attributes characteristic of the handwriting were obtained, e.g., line separation, slant, character shapes, etc. These attributes, which are a subset of attributes used by forensic document examiners (FDEs), were used to quantitatively establish individuality by using machine learning approaches. Using global attributes of handwriting and very few characters in the writing, the ability to determine the writer with a high degree of confidence was established. The work is a step towards providing scientific support for admitting handwriting evidence in court. The mathematical approach and the resulting software also have the promise of aiding the FDE.
Fluvial Transport of Human Remains in the Lower Mississippi River
Authors: Bassett HE , Manhein MH
Published: August 2015

The Mississippi River has claimed many lives over the last several decades. A better understanding of the universal dynamics of its fluvial system can help direct the production of a predictive model regarding the transportation of human remains in the river. The model may then be applied to situations where the location and the identification of water victims are necessarily part of the recovery process. Results from the preliminary phase of a longitudinal project involving the transport of human remains in the Mississippi River are presented and represent the analyses of 233 case files of river victims.

A provisional model for fluvial transport of human remains in the Mississippi River is proposed and examined. This model indicates that time in the river and distance a body travels are related. Such a model may assist in pinpointing entry location for unidentified human remains found in the river or on its banks. Further, it has the potential to provide local and regional law enforcement agencies, the United States Coast Guard, and other search and rescue organizations with primary search areas when someone is missing in the river.

Other results from this study indicate that a relationship exists between the side of the river where victims enter the water and the side of the river where the remains are recovered. Finally, relationships are established between the length of time before recovery of the remains and state of preservation exhibited by those remains. A secondary benefit from this study is a database of river victims that can be used by a variety of different agencies.
Determination of Luminescent Europium β-Diketonates Used as Tracers for Shadowing Pursuits
Authors: Kurata S , Hirano H , Nagai M
Published: August 2015

Markers with red luminescence under ultraviolet light were used as tracers for shadowing pursuits in a variety of criminal cases. The luminescent markers consisted of a mixture of 1% europium _-diketonates in Vaseline as the carrier. The visual detection limit under ultraviolet light was 1–100 ppm. Six types of europium _-diketonates were extracted with acetonitrile and promptly identified using both fluorescence spectrophotometry and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry at the detection limits of 10–100 ppb. Vaseline was readily analyzed by gas chromatography. The markers were scientifically identified for criminal proof in the field of forensic science. Three examples of the use of luminescent markers are described.
A Method for the Longitudinal Sectioning of Single Hair Samples
Authors: Kempson IM , Skinner WM , Kirkbride PK
Published: August 2015

A simple technique is presented for the longitudinal sectioning of hair samples without the need for any embedding medium. The technique applies to single hair samples that are placed in a groove of a particular depth and can either be scraped or cut to the desired level. Planar sections are obtained that reveal the internal structure of the sample and are ideal for the application of surface analytical techniques for the study of internal transverse and longitudinal distributions of xenobiotics.
Discovery of Decomposed and Mummified Corpses in the Domestic Setting—A marker of Social Isolation?
Authors: Hönigschnabl S , Schaden E , Stichenwirth M , Schneider B , Klupp N , Kremeier E , Lehner W , Vycudilik W , Bauer G , Risser D
Published: August 2015

Mass media reports attribute the occurrence of decomposed or mummified corpses in a domestic setting mainly to an increasing social isolation of elderly people. Not much is known about the demographic and medical conditions under which individuals are found months or even years after death in their homes.

For this study, autopsy reports of individuals found dead and mummified or decomposed between 1993 and 1997 with those from 1963 to 1967 were retrospectively analyzed.

Between 1993 and 1997, a total number of 320 individuals were found decomposed at home compared to 412 such cases between 1963 and 1967. The proportion of individuals older than 64 years was significantly higher during the 1990s study period. Furthermore, the proportion of deaths attributable to natural causes was significantly lower during the 1990s, whereas the rate of suicides was nearly three times higher.
Presentation of a Three-Banded Allele Pattern—Analysis and Interpretation
Authors: Zamir A , Shpitzen M , Oz C , Motro U , Meiner V , Gafny R
Published: August 2015

The Israel police forensic biology laboratory received as an item of evidence in an attempted murder case, a pair of trousers be-longing to a suspect. A bloodstain was observed on the trousers and analyzed by STR typing for nine loci using the Promega GenePrint(tm) STR sil-ver stain detection kits. The genetic profile defined was found to be identical to that of the victim's at all nine loci. Within this profile a three-banded allele pattern was observed at the D16S539 locus, both in the bloodstain and in the victim's reference blood sample. Confirmation of this phe-nomenon was accomplished by amplifying the extracted DNA from both the trousers and the victim's blood sample using the PowerPlex 16 kit by Promega and the AmpFSTR SGM Plus kit by Perkin Elmer, followed by analysis of the amplification products by capillary electrophoresis on the ABI prism 310 genetic analyzer. The same three-banded allele pattern was observed at the D16S539 locus in both specimen and reference DNA, using each of the three kits. Three additional loci located on chromosome 16 (D16S3407, D16S2617 and D16S3082), not employed for forensic identification, were also analyzed and did not show three-banded allele pattern.
Fatality from Olanzapine Induced Hyperglycemia
Authors: Meatherall R , Younes J
Published: August 2015

A case history of a 31-year-old male schizophrenic patient is presented. The man was treated with olanzapine for three weeks be-fore he died. After one week on a 10 mg daily dose of olanzapine, his fasting blood glucose was elevated to 11.3 mmol/L (203 mg/dL). In order to treat more aggressively his psychosis, the olanzapine dose was raised to 20 mg daily resulting in his fasting blood glucose climbing to 15.8 mmol/L (284 mg/dL). On the days preceding his death, he became progressively weaker, and developed polydipsia with polyuria. He had no personal or family history of diabetes mellitus and he was on no other medication at the time of his death.

Postmortem blood, vitreous humor, and urine glucose concentrations were 53 mmol/L (954 mg/dL), 49 mmol/L (882 mg/dL), and 329 mmol/L (5922 mg/dL), respectively. Drug screen on urine and blood indicated only a small amount or olanzapine and no alcohols. Peripheral blood olanza-pine concentration was within therapeutic limits, 45 ng/mL.

Analysis of vitreous humor and urine revealed severe dehydration with small amounts of ketones. Death was attributed to hyperosmolar nonke-totic diabetic coma, and olanzapine was felt most likely to be the cause.

Another atypical neuroleptic, clozapine, has also been associated with the development and exacerbation of diabetes mellitus or diabetic ke-toacidosis. We recommend including vitreous glucose and -hydroxybutyrate analysis as part of postmortem toxicology work up when the drug screen reveals the presence of either olanzapine or clozapine.
GC/MS Determination of Pyrolysis Products from Diacetylmorphine and Adulterants of Street Heroin Samples
Authors: Brenneisen R , Hasler F
Published: August 2015

The inhalation of heroin vapors after heating on aluminium foil (“chasing the dragon”) is gaining popularity nowadays among heroin users seeking to avoid the risks of parenteral drug administration. The heroin-smoking procedure was simulated under laboratory conditions by heat-ing the samples on aluminium foil at 250 to 400°C and collecting the vapors in a condenser trap. A total of 72 pyrolysis products of diacetylmor-phine, street heroin, residues from aluminium foils used to smoke street heroin, typical by-products, and adulterants were detected by gas chro-matography/ mass spectrometry (GC/MS). About half of these compounds could be identified. Diacetylmorphine (base and salt) undergoes substantial to complete degradation. Some typical street heroin constituents, like morphine, codeine, acetylcodeine, papaverine, and caffeine, are rather heat-stable. Other compounds, like noscapine and paracetamol, are pyrolyzed to a greater extent. The principal chemical reactions leading to the formation of pyrolysis products are desacetylation, transacetylation, N-demethylation, O-methylation, ring cleavage and oxydation.
Facial Approximation: Globe Projection Guideline Falsified by Exophthalmometry Literature
Authors: Stephan CN
Published: August 2015

The projection of the cornea from the bony orbit has been determined, in facial approximation, by centrally locating the eyeball in the orbit and positioning the cornea so that its most anterior point falls in line with a tangent dropped from the mid-superior to the mid-inferior or-bital rim. However, there appears to be no scientific evidence to justify this guideline; yet, there have been numerous studies that measure globe pro-jection in living subjects, from the lateral orbit using an exophthalmometer. The aim of this study was to determine if the traditional facial approx-imation guideline is consistent with the exophthalmometry literature. MRI research shows that corneal projection is underestimated using the traditional facial approximation guideline. An underestimation is also strongly supported by statistical comparisons of globe projection measures taken using more traditional instruments (e.g., Hertel's exophthalmometer) to skull morphology (p 0.006). It is suggested that the traditional fa-cial approximation guideline not be used in future facial approximations since it appears to under-predict anterior globe projection by 4 mm on av-erage. It is also suggested that average exophthalmometer values be used until more accurate and precise ways of determining globe projection have been determined.
Postmortem Concentrations of Citalopram
Authors: Anastos N , McIntyre IM , Lynch MJ , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

The postmortem concentrations of citalopram in blood, bile, liver, and vitreous humour were investigated in 14 cases using a spe-cially developed high performance liquid chromatography assay. Concentrations from drug and non-drug related deaths were categorized to deter-mine a postmortem therapeutic and toxic range. Therapeutic citalopram concentrations for blood, bile, liver, and vitreous humour ranged to 0.4 mg/L, 2.1 mg/l, 6.6 mg/kg, and 0.2 mg/L, respectively. In one potentially fatal response to citalopram, concentrations were 0.8 mg/L, 6.0 mg/L, 0.3 mg/L for blood, bile and vitreous humour, respectively.
An Improved Method for Post-PCR Purification for mtDNA Sequence Analysis
Authors: Dugan KA , Lawrence HS , Hares DR , Fisher CL , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis of forensic samples typically is performed when the quantity and quality of DNA are insuf-ficient for nuclear DNA analysis or when maternal relatives may be the only reference source. Many of the steps required in the analytical process are both lengthy and labor intensive. Therefore, improvements in the process that reduce labor without compromising the quality of the data are de-sirable. The current procedure requires purification of the amplicons by centrifugal filtration after PCR and prior to cycle sequencing. Because this method requires several manipulations to perform, alternate cleanup procedures were investigated. These include the use of 1) Qiagen QIAquick PCR Purification columns, 2) Concert Rapid PCR Purification columns, and 3) ExoSAP-IT(tm) reagent. When the yield of purified amplicons, qual-ity of the sequence profile, and ease of assay were evaluated, the use of ExoSAP-IT(tm) reagent for post-amplification purification was chosen to re-place the filtration method.