bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Professional Profile of Diplomates of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology: 1984–1992
Authors: Reichs KJ
Published: August 2015

The updated 1993 membership directory of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences lists 163 members in the physical anthropology section. Of these, 38, or approximately 23%, have completed the process of certification and are diplomates of the American Board of Forensic Anthropology.

In lieu of periodic re-examination, the board requires that each diplomate provide an annual report of professional activities to maintain certification. This information forms a database concerning sources of casework, case types, expertise requested, court activities, and other professional pursuits engaged in by diplomates.

Statistics are presented concerning the professional activities of board certified forensic anthropologists in 1992. Trends for the period 1984 to 1992 are analyzed.
Involuntary Electro-Convulsive Therapy to Restore Competency to Stand Trial: A Five Year Study in New York State
Authors: Ladds B
Published: August 2015

As a result of the recent United States Supreme Court case of Riggins v. Nevada, lower courts are likely to review if, and under what conditions, pretrial criminal defendants may be treated involuntarily with antipsychotic medication. It may also be time to re-consider the similar use of electro-convulsive therapy (ECT), if indeed it is still being used in this context. This is the first known recent study to determine the frequency of ECT among incompetent defendants. Records from the two forensic psychiatric facilities in New York State that receive over 95% of all indicted felony offenders who are incompetent to stand trial were retrospectively reviewed for a five year study period. All requests to the court for authorization for involuntary treatment with ECT were sought. In the study period, out of approximately 1365 total persons committed, there was one case of a request to the court to administer involuntary ECT to an incompetent defendant. This request was granted after a Rivers hearing. This single case, in which involuntary ECT was not effective, is described. This study serves to demonstrate that involuntary ECT is still requested and administered in New York State to incompetent defendants. In light of the concerns raised in Riggins about involuntary medication, it seems reasonable and necessary to re-consider whether and under what conditions ECT should be involuntarily administered to a pre-trial defendant. Several recommendations are suggested.
The Medical Examiner in War
Authors: Reiber KB , Burns AC , Oxley DW , Gormley WT
Published: August 2015

Loss of human life is one of the tragic costs of war. While combat deaths are expected, non-combat deaths during a military operation often come as a surprise to military planners and the public. During Operation Desert Storm, all United States deaths related to the Gulf War were classified according to circumstances as either hostile or non-hostile. We reviewed all deaths classified as non-hostile during Operation Desert Storm, from January 16, 1991 through April 17, 1991. These deaths were compared with the death rate recorded for all Armed Forces personnel during a recent year (Fiscal Year 1989) in which there was no hostile activity. The emphasis is on cause and manner of death. Representative cases are briefly discussed.
Fatal Anorectal Injuries: A Series of Four Cases
Authors: Orr CJ , Clark MA , Hawley DA , Pless JE , Tate LR , Fardal PM
Published: August 2015

Anorectal injuries associated with sexual practices have become more frequently reported in the last decade. Although anorectal injuries are commonly reported in cases of sexual abuse of children, fatalities are very rare. In this series of cases, we report a case of fatal child abuse resulting from anal intercourse. In addition, there are two cases of death in females as a result of heterosexual “fisting” or “handballing.” The fourth case of the series is that of a homicidal injury produced by rectal impalement with a 31 inch length of threaded pipe.
Systematic Toxicological Analysis Using HPLC/DAD
Authors: Tracqui A , Kintz P , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

A high-performance liquid chromatographic method with diode-array detection (HPLC/DAD) for systematic toxicological analysis of human blood or plasma samples is presented. After single-step liquid/liquid extraction at pH 9.5 using chloroform/2-propanol/n-heptane (60:14:26, v/v/v), the drugs elute isocratically from a NovaPak C18 (Waters) 4-µm column (300 mm × 3.9 mm, i.d.) at 30°C, with methanol/tetrahydrofuran/pH 2.6 phosphate buffer (65:5:30, v/v/v) as the mobile phase (flow rate 0.8 mL/min). Full UV spectra from 200 to 400 nm (resolution 1.3 nm) are recorded on-line during the 20 min chromatographic run. Solute identification may be automatically performed by comparison of analytical data (retention times and UV spectra) with references of 311 pharmaceuticals, toxicants and drugs of abuse stored in a computerized library. The method is simple, rapid, relatively inexpensive and highly specific. The previously reported applications of HPLC/DAD technology to drug screening are reviewed, and the interests and limitations of the method are discussed in the light of this literature.
The Detection of Opiate Drugs in Nontraditional Specimens (Clothing): A Report of Ten Cases
Authors: Tracqui A , Kintz P , Ludes B , Jamey C , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

We present a series of 10 fatalities involving opiate overdosage, in which morphine, codeine, and 6-monoacetylmorphine were identified and quantified, not only in postmortem biological samples, but also in pieces of underwear taken from the bodies. Small tissue samples (about 1 g) were cut off from several parts of the underwear, stored at ambient temperature until analysis, then extracted by agitation in a mixture of chloroform/2-propanol/n-heptane (60:14:26, v/v/v) and assayed using GC/MS in the single ion monitoring mode. Morphine, codeine and 6-monoacetylmorphine concentrations were in the range 0.02 to 9.27 µg/g. These results indicate that the impregnation of underwear by sweat and sebaceous secretions and/or urine provides detectable levels of the drugs excreted by these ways. Even in the absence of biological samples, assaying pieces of clothing may bring some evidence about the drug abuser status of their owner.
French Caucasian Population Data for HUMTH01 and HUMFES/FPS Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Systems
Authors: Pfitzinger H , Ludes B , Kintz P , Tracqui A , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

The recent technology of amplification of DNA sequences by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has already proved to be a very useful tool for the analysis of variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) loci. Short tandem repeat (STR) loci appear as other promising PCR-based identification systems. In fact, DNA typing based on PCR amplification of STRs is very sensitive and allows to overcome major problems encountered when using the RFLP method, such as typing of very small amounts of DNA, highly degraded DNA or mixtures of DNA from more than one individual.

Two STR systems, HUMTH01 (a tetranucleotide repeat (AATG) sequence located on chromosome 11) and HUMFES/FPS (a tetranucleotide repeat (ATTT) sequence located on chromosome 15) were investigated in order to determine allele and genotype frequencies for a French caucasian population sample.

HUMTH01 and HUMFES/FPS alleles were amplified by the use of PCR and amplified STR sequences were analyzed on 6% Hydrolink Long Ranger gels and visualized by silver staining.

The study was conducted on a sample of unrelated individuals (N ≈ 190) randomly selected from the French caucasian population. The genotype distributions met Hardy-Weinberg expectations for both HUMTH01 and HUMFES/FPS STR systems. Furthermore, an additional allele, never reported before was observed at the HUMFES/FPS locus: it migrates as an allele containing 7 repeat units and corresponds to the smallest allele identified for this locus.
Fixed Bin Population Data for the VNTR Loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, and D17S79 in Chinese from Taiwan
Authors: Huang MNE , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Fixed bin frequencies for the VNTR loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, and D17S79 were determined in a Chinese sample population. The data were generated by RFLP analysis of Hae III-digested genomic DNA and chemiluminescence detection. The five VNTR loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations in the Chinese sample population, and there is little 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 Chinese.
Use of the Scanning Electron Microscope to Examine Fiber Impressions on Typewriter Correction Tape
Authors: Castro SM , Galbreath NW , Pecko JL , Hellman FN , Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

When a correction ribbon is used to correct a type-written document, fiber impressions from the paper are impressed upon the ribbon. Previous research used a comparison microscope to match fibers and fiber impressions between a correction ribbon and a document. However, because of inherent features of the correction ribbon system, several difficulties were encountered. Consequently, a scanning electron microscope (SEM) was used to alleviate some of the problems discovered by past research. The SEM, with its greater magnification power, detected both fibers and fiber impressions, creating a basis for association between a questioned document and a correction ribbon. Use of SEM also ameliorated the problems of past research and greatly enhanced points of comparison.
Three-Dimensional Reconstruction of a Bullet Path: Validation by Computed Radiography
Authors: Oliver WR , Chancellor AS , Soltys M , Symon J , Cullip T , Rosenman J , Hellman R , Boxwala A , Gormley W
Published: August 2015

Three-dimensional visualization is an important tool in the evaluation and demonstration of injury. Creating convincing graphics, however, requires strict distinction between illustrative and reconstructive visualizations and a method of validation. We present a case in which we used a radiation-planning tool to provide a 3-dimensional illustrative visualization of a contact gunshot wound to the head, and validated the result by comparing computed radiographs with radiographs taken at autopsy. We discuss the use of visualization tools for data exploration in forensic pathology.
A Review of The Art and Science of Handwriting
Authors: Dillon DJ
Published: August 2015

American readers are unlikely to be acquainted with the writings of Rosemary Sassoon; fortunately, this oversight can be corrected with the publication of her new book. The Art and Science of Handwriting is a compilation of previously published articles supplemented by connecting commentary. While this book should excite the interest of examiners of questioned documents, it will have limited value to other practitioners in the forensic sciences, except perhaps, those concerned with their children's handwriting progress.
The R. B. H. Gradwohl Laureate—1995
Authors: Lucas DM
Published: August 2015

The Gradwohl Medal is the Academy's highest honor and tribute, bestowed in recognition of a lifetime of distinction and exceptional service to the organization and the profession. Established in 1975, the Gradwohl Medal has been awarded to only five other individuals.
Techniques for Locating Burials, with Emphasis on the Probe
Authors: Owsley DW
Published: August 2015

The search for buried remains frequently includes visual assessment of surface features, trained dogs, and sophisticated geophysical remote sensing techniques. Nonintrusive, electronic survey equipment, such as the proton magnetometer, ground penetrating radar, and electrical resistivity, have yielded good results. However, under certain field conditions a simple, less expensive, relatively noninvasive tool—the probe—is effective. The probe, when used by an experienced investigator, provides a variety of information in a short amount of time, facilitates excavation, and minimizes damage to a burial. This paper offers examples of the application of a probe in forensic cases in urban and rural settings and in the detection of historic burials. Examples include the location of four individuals killed during the raid on the Branch Davidian Compound in Mount Carmel, Texas, and the search for burials in cemeteries that had been desecrated.
William M. Bass and the Development of Forensic Anthropology in Tennessee
Authors: Marks MK
Published: August 2015

Twenty-two years of human identification cases have been analyzed with respect to the development of a forensic anthropology curriculum at the University of Tennessee under William M. Bass. Relationships forged with the State Medical Examiner and lecture programs for national, state and local law enforcement agencies and arson investigators have provided the necessary exposure that ensured the growth of Dr. Bass's caseload and program. Postmortem indicators for assessing time-since-death have been Bass's target research domain. The development of a donated body program with curation of those skeletons promises to keep his research perspective fueled. Finally, the formal establishment of the Forensic Anthropology Center at the University of Tennessee ensures the continued academic commitment to forensic anthropology.
A Preliminary Investigation of Postmortem Tooth Loss
Authors: McKeown AH , Bennett JL
Published: August 2015

Forensic anthropologists have found a seemingly increased frequency of dismemberment cases and subsequent scattering of the elements that mandates developing unconventional methods of estimating postmortem interval. The chronological sequence in postmortem tooth loss has been investigated as an indicator for estimation of time since death.

The anterior dentitions of cadavera were observed to discern patterns in “drop time” based on age, periodontal health, seasonality and location of body placement. Individuals deposited in the summer months lost teeth much more rapidly than those deposited in the late fall or winter months. Similarly, individuals exposed to direct sunlight, a micro-environment where rapid decomposition has been noted, lost teeth before individuals in shaded locales. Since tooth loss is dependent on the deterioration of the soft tissues which bind the tooth into the alveolar bone, we found tooth loss to be correlated with general soft tissue decomposition rates as dictated by season and environment.

When utilized as sole indicator, the patterns of postmortem tooth loss can not be used for estimating time since death. However, when used in conjunction with other indicators, tooth loss patterns may provide useful information for more accurate estimation of the postmortem interval.
The Measure and Mismeasure of the Tibia: Implications for Stature Estimation
Authors: Jantz RL , Hunt DR , Meadows L
Published: August 2015

Trotter and Gleser's stature estimation formulae, based on skeletons of the Terry collection and on WWII casualties, have been widely used in forensic work. Our work with the Terry and WWII data yielded tibia lengths too short compared to other data sets. Using Trotter's original measurements, we discovered that she consistently mismeasured the tibia. Contrary to standard practice and her own definitions, she omitted the malleolus from the measurement. Trotter's measurements of the tibia are 10 to 12 mm shorter than they should have been, resulting in stature estimations averaging 2.5 to 3.0 cm too great when the formulae are used with properly measured tibia.

We also examined tibia lengths of Korean War casualties, which were measured by technicians rather than by Trotter. Korean tibia measurements are also too short, but by a smaller amount than Terry and WWII. Since the Korean tibia are unavailable for restudy, it is unclear how they were measured.

Estimation of stature from Trotter and Gleser's tibia formulae is to be avoided if possible. If necessary, the 1952 formulae could be used with tibia measured in the same manner that Trotter measured, excluding the malleolus.
Allometric Secular Change in the Long Bones from the 1800s to the Present
Authors: Meadows L , Jantz RL
Published: August 2015

Allometric secular changes in the six long limb bones for White and Black males from the mid 1800s to the present are examined. Long bone lengths are available from the Terry collection and WWII casualties. We conducted two types of analysis to reveal secular changes. First, allometry scaling coefficients were derived by regressing log bone length onto log stature. These showed that the femur, tibia and fibula were positively allometric with stature, while the humerus, radius and ulna were isometric. The lower limb bones were more positively allometric in the WWII sample than in the Terry sample.

Second, secular changes in length of femur and tibia and in the tibia/femur ratio were evaluated, using modern forensic cases in addition to the Terry and WWII samples. This analysis shows that secular increase in lower limb bone length is accompanied by relatively longer tibiae. Secular changes in proportion may render stature formulae based on nineteenth century samples, such as the Terry collection, inappropriate for modern forensic cases. The positive allometry of the lower limb bones argues against using simple femur/stature ratio, which assumes constant proportionality, as an alternative to regression equations.
Should We Estimate Biological or Forensic Stature?
Authors: Ousley Stephen
Published: August 2015

Trotter and Gleser's stature regression equations were derived from partly incorrect measurements of long bones and antemortem measured statures (MSTATs). Forensic anthropologists have applied these equations to correctly measured bones and compared resulting estimates to a forensic stature (FSTAT), usually obtained from a driver's license. Forensic anthropologists have also used Trotter and Gleser's standard error as a stature prediction range, despite published warnings that it is not wide enough for this purpose. The combination of these factors has resulted in inaccurate and unrealistically precise estimates of stature from the long bones. Several factors decrease the accuracy of measured statures, and a reanalysis of Trotter's data reveals that estimating a biological stature is more imprecise than previously supposed. For FSTATs, these estimates are inaccurate as well. Using data from the Forensic Data Bank, new regression equations for predicting FSTAT were calculated, and in some cases are more precise than regressions based on Trotter's data using MSTATs. Confidence intervals for a single prediction, or prediction intervals, were calculated and are superior to standard errors for providing a range for stature estimations.
Microscopic Age Changes in the Human Occipital Bone
Authors: Cool SM , Hendrikz JK , Wood WB
Published: August 2015

The value of histological examination of the human occipital bone for estimation of age-at-death was assessed. Undecalcified sections of occipital bone from eighteen male Caucasian subjects between the ages of 21 and 70 years were prepared for analysis using polarized light microscopy. The fractional volumes of primary osteons, secondary osteons, osteon fragments, and lamellar bone in both the outer and inner cortical tables were determined. It was found that with increasing age there is a decrease in the fractional volume of primary osteons and a significant decrease in the fractional volume of lamellar bone. The fractional volume of secondary osteons was not found to change significantly with age, while the fractional volume of osteon fragments significantly increases. The microscopic results reflect the continuous process of bone remodeling that is responsible for the variation in cortical parameters with age and is the primary basis for age predicting methods. While observable changes in the occipital bone do occur with increasing age, the amount of random variation in the parameters examined preclude their use for accurate age estimation.
Comparison of Contact Shotgun Wounds of the Head Produced by Different Gauge Shotguns
Authors: Harruff RC
Published: August 2015

A series of 89 contact shotgun wounds of the head were evaluated to compare the extent of wounding produced by different gauge shotguns. Twelve gauge shotguns were the most common, accounting for 69% of the cases, followed by 20 gauge (18%), 410 caliber (10%), and 16 gauge (3%). The mouth was the most common entry site, used in 62% of cases. Comparison of contact intraoral shotgun wounds revealed statistically significant differences between 12 gauge and 20 gauge wounds. Whereas the extent of internal destruction was similar with both gauges, intraoral 12 gauge shotgun wounds caused bursting of the head with lacerations of the face, forehead, and scalp in 74% of cases, while only 9% of 20 gauge wounds produced a similar extent of external disruption. The external head remained fully intact in 55% of 20 gauge intraoral wounds. To account for the threshold effect for head bursting between 20 gauge and 12 gauge shotgun blasts, commercial shotshell and reloading data were analyzed. While there was considerable overlap between the two gauges, a common 12 gauge load would generate 50% more kinetic energy and 40% greater volume of gas than a common 20 gauge load. Comparison of shotgun blasts at entry sites outside of the mouth showed similar differences. Wounds from .410 shotguns were similar to those from 20 gauge weapons, and 16 gauge shotguns produced wounds intermediate between 20 and 12 gauge.
Studies on Age Estimation Using Racemization of Aspartic Acid in Cementum
Authors: Ohtani S
Published: August 2015

An attempt was made to estimate the age of cementum using the racemization method, which focuses on the ratio of D- and L-aspartic acids (referred to as the ‘D/L ratio’). Using the whole cementum, the correlation coefficients between the D/L ratio and age were r = 0.984 to 0.997. When the use of incisors and premolars was compared, the former gave better results than the latter. We then made a comparison of cementum, enamel and dentin, using a first premolar from the same individual. For each component tissue the correlation of D/L ratio with the actual age was calculated and the highest value was shown for dentin at r = 0.992, followed by cementum at r = 0.988 and enamel at r = 0.961. These results show that the racemization reaction in cementum proceeds at a constant rate, and confirm that cementum, like dentin, is a tissue with very low metabolism. Therefore, it is clear that accurate estimation of age is practically possible using the amino acid racemization method for cementum.
Internally Concealed Cocaine: Analytical and Diagnostic Aspects
Authors: Bogusz MJ , Althoff H , Erkens M , Maier R-D , Hofmann R
Published: August 2015

Thirty persons arrested at Frankfurt airport for smuggling internally concealed cocaine in 1993/1994 were investigated. An X-ray examination (in all 30 cases), immunochemical examination of urine (in 27 cases) and of saliva (in 20 cases) was performed in parallel. An X-ray examination gave positive results in all examined persons. EMIT® cocaine metabolite assay (cut off 300 ng benzoylecgonine (BE)/mL) was positive in eight urine samples. After reducing the cut off to 150 ng BE/mL urine, eleven samples were classified as positive. The results were confirmed by means of chromatographic determinations. These findings showed limited role of immunological examination of urine as a screening test in suspected smuggling of internally concealed drugs. All saliva samples showed negative immunochemical results.

The number of concealed containers ranged from 44 to 135 per person. The amount of cocaine hydrochloride found in particular cases ranged from 242 to 1050 g net weight, divided into containers weighing from 5.7 to 13.8 g. Drug packages were obviously machine-made. The packages smuggled by a particular person were uniform. However, a distinct interpersonal variability in drug packages was observed, in regard to the number of protective layers (4–7), size, weight, and cocaine purity. This may be helpful for the identification of production site.

The leaching of cocaine from selected containers was investigated in a stirring bath and was independent of the conditions applied.
Quantitative Analysis of Organic Pigments in Forensic Paint Examination
Authors: Voskertchian GP
Published: August 2015

A method is used to determine the qualitative and quantitative composition of small paint samples (7–15 micrograms) containing different phthalocyanine (copper and metal-free) pigments and their mixture using visible spectrophotometry.
Evaluation of Data Treatment Techniques for Improved Analysis of Fingerprint Images
Authors: Vigo GP , Hueber DM , Vo-Dinh T
Published: August 2015

We evaluated four different methods for data treatment of fingerprint images. The first two methods (Lee's method, and Iterative Automated Noise Filtering method) are used to remove signal-independent additive noise from digital images of fingerprints. The two other methods (low-pass and high-pass wavelet filtering), based on the wavelet transform, are employed not only to reduce the noise, but also to enhance the information of the fingerprints, especially details at the ridges. To evaluate these four filtering techniques we analyzed images of various fingerprints provided by the Police Department of Knoxville, Tennessee, and recorded digitally in the laboratory using inexpensive apparatus. Experimental results show that the methods are effective in diverse cases and have potential in forensic analysis of fingerprints.
Combined Homicide-Suicides: A Review
Authors: Felthous AR , Hempel A
Published: August 2015

Although the rate of combined homicide-suicides is low compared with that for suicide alone or homicide, homicide-suicides generate much public concern. In some cases, the homicide-suicide involves annihilation of an entire family or multiple nonfamily members. A difficult phenomenon to study—in part because the perpetrator is dead—it is, nonetheless, crucial to attempt to advance our understanding of this tragic phenomenon from a psychiatric view. This literature review then addresses demographic variables; proposes two classifications, one based on psychopathology, the other on the relationship between offender and victim; and suggests a three dimensional analytical approach to understanding homicide-suicide: 1) psychopathology and ego deficits of the perpetrator, 2) cumulative and precipitating stressors, and 3) motivation and vector of destructive urges against self and the other victim(s) [1]. Finally, some implications for mental health clinicians and forensic experts are offered.

In attempting to understand acts of homicide-suicide, inquiry into the following dimensions should be useful: Ego Weakness. What type of mental disorder(s), psychopathology, or personality traits may have contributed to the homicidal-suicidal behavior? Stressors. What type of acute and chronic stressors did the individual experience leading up to this act? Vectors. Whom did the individual select to kill and why? Were some victims more clearly primary and others secondary or incidental?
Microchemical Spot Tests in Toolmark Examination
Authors: Novoselsky Y , Glattstein B , Volkov N , Zeichner A
Published: August 2015

The use of spot tests to find traces of metals quickly on the cutting regions of the tool blades submitted for toolmarks comparison is reported. Two cases are presented. The cutting of a padlock by a bolt cutter and the cutting of electric wire by fingernail clipper.
Use of a Fiber Optic Probe for the Detection and Identification of Explosive Materials by Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Hayward IP , Kirkbride TE , Batchelder DN , Lacey RJ
Published: August 2015

A fiber optic probe has been developed that allows Raman spectra to be acquired remotely from a spectrometer. This system has been used to acquire spectra from explosive materials. In this study we demonstrate that it is sufficiently sensitive to rapidly detect traces of PETN in fingerprints of Semtex-Hexplosive. Further development of similar systems will enable the detection and non-destructive identification of contraband materials in the field.
Tandem Bullet Versus Multiple Gunshot Wounds
Authors: Jentzen JM , Lutz M , Templin R
Published: August 2015

The differentiation of tandem bullets fired simultaneously versus multiple bullets fired separately entering through a single entrance wound may present difficulty in wound interpretation for the forensic pathologist. The authors present a case report of three separate projectiles entering through a single perforation. The differentiation of projectiles fired in tandem and multiple single projectiles is discussed.
A Bayesian Approach to Adult Human Age Estimation from Dental Observations by Johanson's Age Changes
Authors: Lucy D , Aykroyd RG , Pollard AM , Solheim T
Published: August 2015

Much of the data which appears in the forensic and archaeological literature is ordinal or categorical. This is particularly true of the age related indicators presented by Gustafson [1] in his method of human adult age estimation using the structural changes in human teeth. This technique is still being modified and elaborated. However, the statistical methods of regression analysis employed by Gustafson and others are not particularly appropriate to this type of data, but are still employed because alternatives have not yet been explored. This paper presents a novel approach based upon the application of Bayes' theorem to ordinal and categorical data, which overcomes many of the problems associated with regression analysis.
Comparison of Individual Carpet Fibers Using Energy Dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence
Authors: Koons RD
Published: August 2015

Energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence (XRF) provides the capability for elemental characterization of individual carpet fibers of a few millimeters in length. XRF is rapid, nondestructive, and provides adequate sensitivity to detect the presence of a variety of elements added to carpet fibers during their manufacture. Several metallic elements are commonly observed in automotive carpet fibers and are less frequently present in the residential carpet fibers in this study, making source classification of these fibers at least partially successful. Qualitative comparison of X-ray spectra may also provide some discrimination capability when used in conjunction with optical microscopy and polymer characterization.
Postgraduate Forensic Science Education in Turkey
Authors: Atasoy S , Sedat Cologlu A , Abaci-Kalfoglu E , Polat O
Published: August 2015

Legal medicine in Turkey, has an educational background that goes back to 1839 and the first autopsy in modern terms was performed in 1841. In the early days, it was common practice for those involved in this work to extend their investigative knowledge into areas not directly concerned with medical matters. However forensic medical investigations cannot be entrusted in the hands of single investigators, but should rather be dealt with by cooperative groups of experts nowadays.

This need was the major force for the establishment of the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences by a special article of the law (§2547) as a training and research center in 1982.

The Institute being the first and only institution giving master's and doctorate degrees in Forensic Sciences, has 3 major departments: 1) Medical Sciences Department, 2) Basic Sciences Department and 3) Social Sciences Department.

Graduates of various fields ranging from medical doctors specialized in any field, biologists, chemists to lawyers, district attorneys, psychologists and other related fields are composing the multidisciplinary structure of the institute.

The main research fields of the Institute are: population genetics, paternity investigation, child abuse, and identification of human remains.
Poppy Seeds: Differences in Morphine and Codeine Content and Variation in Inter- and Intra-Individual Excretion
Authors: Pelders MG , Ros JJW
Published: August 2015

Poppy seeds from seven different origins (Dutch, Australian, Hungarian, Spanish, Czech, and two Turkish) were analyzed for the amount of opiates present. Four grams of each kind of seeds, equivalent to the amount of seeds on two bagels, were ingested by volunteers. One volunteer also ingested four times the same amount of poppy seeds from the same origin (Spanish). During 24 hours urine samples were obtained and screened for the presence of morphine and codeine using the FPIA technique (cut-off = 200 ng/mL) and a GC/MS confirmation with a limit of detection (LOD) of 25 ng/mL for codeine and morphine. Poppy seeds from different origins contain a wide variation of morphine (2–251 µg/g) and codeine (0.4–57.1 µg/g) content. No other opiate could be detected. After ingestion a large interindividual variation of excretion of opiates exists. The testing results from the same kind of seeds ingested four times with a one week interval by the same volunteer also show a poor reproduceability. Several kinds of poppy seeds can give positive testing results (Australian, Hungarian, spanish and one kind of Turkish seeds). Within 24 hours all testing results became negative.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatographic Analysis with Fluorescence Detection of Ethyl Centralite and 2,4-Dinitrotoluene in Gunshot Residues After Derivatization with 9-Fluorenylmethylchloroformate
Authors: Meng H-H , Caddy B
Published: August 2015

A reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatographic method using 9-fluorenylmethylchloroformate (FMOC) as fluorogenic labeling reagent for the detection of ethyl centralite (EC) and 2,4-dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) in gunshot residues is reported. Residues were sampled with cotton wool swabs which were then extracted and the extracts cleaned by TLC. The sample spots on the TLC plate were scraped off and extracted to recover the analytes. The extract corresponding to EC was hydrolyzed while 2,4-DNT was reduced. The hydrolysis and reduction products (N-ethylaniline and 2,4-diaminotoluene, respectively) were derivatized with FMOC in alkaline buffer solution at 52°C for 20 min. The derivatives were analyzed by a reversed-phase HPLC with fluorescence detection. The detection limits for EC and 2,4-DNT were 200 pg and 1 ng per standard sample, respectively. Three out of eleven kinds of gunpowders analyzed were found to contain EC, while another three were found to contain 2,4-DNT. According to the results of gunpowder analysis, two different kinds of ammunition, which were presumed to contain EC in one and 2,4-DNT in the other, were chosen for test firings. Ethyl centralite was detected in cotton swabs sampled from spent cartridge cases of both of these two kinds of ammunition, but 2,4-DNT was not detected in any of these spent cases. Nine out of twelve samples swabbed from shooting hands at various times after firing two rounds of either kind of ammunition were found to contain EC, while none of these swabs were found to contain 2,4-DNT. The quantities of EC recovered from these hand swabs were shown to be in the range of 0.6 to 4.0 ng.
1995 Awards for the Best Research Papers by Fellows in Forensic Psychiatry/Psychology Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Section
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

1995 Awards for the Best Research Papers by Fellows in Forensic Psychiatry/Psychology Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Section
Co-Morbidity of Alcoholism and the Paraphilias
Authors: Allnutt SH , Bradford JMW , Greenberg DM , Curry S
Published: August 2015

Alcoholism has been related to a wide variety of crimes. Various authors have studied the prevalence of alcoholism in relationship to incest, rape and pedophilia. This study evaluates the co-morbidity of alcoholism and the specific paraphilias including sexual sadism, fetishism, incest, pedophilia, exhibitionism and transvestism. Rapists were included although by definition it is not strictly a paraphilic disorder. Seven hundred and twenty eight paraphilic individuals were evaluated. More than 50% of sexual sadists were alcoholics. Alcoholism in association with sexual sadists was statistically significant as compared to transvestites, rapists, pedophiles, and incest offenders. Transvestism had the lowest relative rate of alcoholism. The authors discuss these findings and the role alcoholism plays in causing violent sexual behavior in individuals with paraphilias.
Deaths Due to Foreign Body Aspiration in Children: The Continuing Hazard of Toy Balloons
Authors: Lifschultz BD , Donoghue ER
Published: August 2015

Asphyxia due to aspiration of a foreign body is a common cause of accidental death in children. Foreign body aspiration is the most likely cause of accidental fatalities in children under 1-year-of-age. Children may die due to airway obstruction by food objects such as hot dogs, nuts, candies, grapes, seeds, and egg shells. Non-food objects such as balloons, coins, pop tops of beverage cans, pills, safety pins, ball bearings, marbles, and baby powder also may be fatally aspirated. To better understand and help prevent this well recognized health risk to children, we reviewed 10 years of cases at the Cook County Medical Examiner's Office in which deaths in children 14-years-of-age and younger were due to aspiration of foreign objects. The most common item that caused fatal aspiration in our series was a toy balloon.
A Flowchart System for the Identification of Common Synthetic Fibers by Polarized Light Microscopy
Authors: Stoeffler SF
Published: August 2015

A flowchart system for identifying common types of synthetic fibers is described. Based on polarized light microscopy, the system allows the rapid identification of the nine generic classes of synthetic fibers most often encountered in casework.
HPLC Analysis of Solvent Yellow 124—The Marker in Diesel Oil
Authors: Nielsen Sundberg L , Andrasko J , Wistedt I , Kopp I
Published: August 2015

A method for the analysis of Solvent Yellow 124, a new marker added in diesel oil and sold in Sweden is presented. The method we describe involves analysis by HPLC on a normal phase column.

The diesel samples were injected directly onto the column. No enrichment of the marker prior to analysis was necessary and quantitative analyzing was possible at concentrations above 0.05 mg/L. The quantitative analysis was improved by the use of an internal standard (Pigment Yellow 3). The use of toxic solvents in the mobile phase was avoided.
“Hyperacute” Subdural Hematoma: CT Mimic of Recurrent Episodes of Bleeding in the Setting of Child Abuse
Authors: Sargent S , Kennedy JG , Kaplan JA
Published: August 2015

Mixed density extraaxial hematomae on computed tomography (CT) scanning generally represent recurrent episodes of bleeding (chronic subdural hematoma with rebleeding). Hyperacute hemorrhages in which the patient is actively bleeding or has a coagulopathy have also been described as mixed density (1). We report a case of child abuse in a fourteen month old child who presented with a CT scan showing a mixed density subdural hematoma which was originally interpreted as recurrent episodes of hemorrhage, but who had evidence of only acute, active bleeding at surgery and by histologic examination.

There is a proportionally high incidence of subdural hematoma in cases of child abuse, due in part to the increased susceptibility of the immature brain to trauma. Because the mechanism of injury is different for hemorrhage due to hyperacute subdural hematoma (SDH) and that of acute bleeding within a chronic SDH, the distinction between these entities has potentially important legal implications in cases of suspected child abuse. This potential pitfall in interpretation of the CT scan has not to our knowledge been reported in the forensic literature.
Not Under the Hammer: A Revolver Suicide
Authors: Lew EO , Kennington RH
Published: August 2015

A man died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head. The only inconsistent finding at the scene was that the single fired cartridge casing in the latched revolver cylinder was not under the hammer. This inconsistency is explained by the discovery that the revolver cylinder can be hand-indexed in reverse. The revelation that the casing does not have to be under the hammer may be a novel concept to many investigators.
A Review of: The Death of Old Man Rice
Authors: Wecht CH
Published: August 2015

“One of the most remarkable trials in all history.”
A Review of: Wound Ballistics—And the Scientific Background
Authors: Fackler MC
Published: August 2015

This is the English translation of a book published, in German, by a different publisher (Springer, Berlin) in 1992. Unfortunately, the translation is seriously flawed. It varies from the stilted and comical to the incomprehensible.
Sleep in Populations ofDrosophila Melanogaster
Authors: Liu Chang , Haynes Paula R. , Donelson Nathan C. , Aharon Shani , Griffith Leslie C.
Published: August 2015

The fruit flyDrosophila melanogasteris a diurnal insect active during the day with consolidated sleep at night. Social interactions between pairs of flies have been shown to affect locomotor activity patterns, but effects on locomotion and sleep patterns have not been assessed for larger populations. Here, we use a commercially available locomotor activity monitor (LAM25H) system to record and analyze sleep behavior. Surprisingly, we find that same-sex populations of flies synchronize their sleep/wake activity, resulting in a population sleep pattern, which is similar but not identical to that of isolated individuals. Like individual flies, groups of flies show circadian and homeostatic regulation of sleep, as well as sexual dimorphism in sleep pattern and sensitivity to starvation and a known sleep-disrupting mutation (amnesiac). Populations of flies, however, exhibit distinct sleep characteristics from individuals. Differences in sleep appear to be due to olfaction-dependent social interactions and change with population size and sex ratio. These data support the idea that it is possible to investigate neural mechanisms underlying the effects of population behaviors on sleep by directly looking at a large number of animals in laboratory conditions.
Collaborative protein filaments
Authors: Ghosal Debnath , Löwe Jan
Published: August 2015

It is now well established that prokaryotic cells assemble diverse proteins into dynamic cytoskeletal filaments that perform essential cellular functions. Although most of the filaments assemble on their own to form higher order structures, growing evidence suggests that there are a number of prokaryotic proteins that polymerise only in the presence of a matrix such as DNA, lipid membrane or even another filament. Matrix‐assisted filament systems are frequently nucleotide dependent and cytomotive but rarely considered as part of the bacterial cytoskeleton. Here, we categorise this family of filament‐forming systems as collaborative filaments and introduce a simple nomenclature. Collaborative filaments are frequent in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes and are involved in vital cellular processes including chromosome segregation, DNA repair and maintenance, gene silencing and cytokinesis to mention a few. In this review, we highlight common principles underlying collaborative filaments and correlate these with known functions.
Hypomagnesemia and functional hypoparathyroidism due to novel mutations in the Mg-channel TRPM6
Authors: Astor Marianne C , Løvås Kristian , Wolff Anette S B , Nedrebø Bjørn , Bratland Eirik , Steen-Johnsen Jon , Husebye Eystein S
Published: August 2015

Primary hypomagnesemia with secondary hypocalcemia (HSH) is an autosomal recessive disorder characterized by neuromuscular symptoms in infancy due to extremely low levels of serum magnesium and moderate to severe hypocalcemia. Homozygous mutations in the magnesium transporter gene transient receptor potential cation channel member 6 (TRPM6) cause the disease. HSH can be misdiagnosed as primary hypoparathyroidism. The aim of this study was to describe the genetic, clinical and biochemical features of patients clinically diagnosed with HSH in a Norwegian cohort. Five patients in four families with clinical features of HSH were identified, including one during a national survey of hypoparathyroidism. The clinical history of the patients and their families were reviewed and gene analyses of TRPM6 performed. Four of five patients presented with generalized seizures in infancy and extremely low levels of serum magnesium accompanied by moderate hypocalcemia. Two of the patients had an older sibling who died in infancy. Four novel mutations and one large deletion in TRPM6 were identified. In one patient two linked homozygous mutations were located in exon 22 (p.F978L) and exon 23 (p.G1042V). Two families had an identical mutation in exon 25 (p.E1155X). The fourth patient had a missense mutation in exon 4 (p.H61N) combined with a large deletion in the C-terminal end of the gene. HSH is a potentially lethal condition that can be misdiagnosed as primary hypoparathyroidism. The diagnosis is easily made if serum magnesium is measured. When treated appropriately with high doses of oral magnesium supplementation, severe hypomagnesemia is uncommon and the long-term prognosis seems to be good.
SCREENING OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA FROM SUDANESE FERMENTED FOODS FOR BACTERIOCIN PRODUCTION
Authors: Y. A. Elyas Yasmeen , M. E. Yousif Nuha , A. Mohamed Ahmed Isam
Published: August 2015

Forty isolates of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) were isolated from different types of fermented foods consumed in Sudan. Phenotypic tests revealed that all isolates were homofermentative LAB. Twenty-four isolates produced inhibitory substances primarily active against Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 2818 and Escherichia coli ATCC 29522. The inhibitory activity of 88% of enterococci and 58% of lactobacilli was recorded from meat isolates, whereas all activity of pediococcal isolates came from fermented milk isolates. The cell-free cultures of 18 isolates exhibiting inhibitory activity was chosen for further investigation such as sensitivity to proteolytic enzyme (pepsin), effect of heat treatment (60°C for 60min, 100°C for 20min and 121°C for 15min) and effect of pH ( pH 2.0, pH 6.5, and pH 9.0). The inhibitory activity was eliminated upon treatment with pepsin. The bacteriocin-like substances lost their activity after heating at all temperatures used and at alkaline pH (9.0), whereas they were active at acidic pH (2.0). The antimicrobial activity of bacteriocin-like substances produced by the isolated LAB could prevent spoilage and/or pathogenic microorganism in Sudanese fermented food. Further study should be related with species identification of the producer strains and with the purification and characterization of these becteriocin-like substances in order to explore them in food industry.