bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Design and Assessment of Mock Mass Disasters for Dental Personnel
Authors: Pretty IA , Webb DA , Sweet D
Published: August 2015

Mass disasters represent a significant challenge for dental personnel who are frequently called upon to provide identifications. Recently-published materials have highlighted the need to prepare such groups for the disaster challenge and to report inadequacies in existing preparation methods with an emphasis on team integration, organization, and the psychological and emotional effects of such work. Many studies have retrospectively reported errors that have been made in disaster situations, but few have addressed the issues proactively. In an effort to provide a prepared team of dental members, a mock disaster exercise (Operation: DENT-ID) is conducted annually in Vancouver, Canada. The present study analyzes the effectiveness of this exercise in relation to team organization, assessment of preparedness, and the emotional and psychological issues. An index of preparedness is developed and described. This index, in the form of a questionnaire, can be given to participants in mock disasters to assess the effectiveness of such exercises. While the focus of this paper is on the assessment of dental personnel, the indices and methods used can be applied to any group working within the disaster team. Results indicate that the increase in preparedness as a result of the exercise was highly significant.
An Investigation of the Psychological Characteristics of Stalkers: Empathy, Problem-Solving, Attachment and Borderline Personality Features
Authors: Lewis SF , Fremouw WJ , Ben KD , Farr C
Published: August 2015

This study examined the psychological characteristics of a sample of self-reported stalkers in comparison with a control group, on measures of empathy, problem-solving skills, attachment, and borderline personality features. Stalkers were identified by their endorsement of specific behavioral items, consistent with a widely adopted definition of stalking, denoting behaviors that: (a) are repeatedly directed toward an identified target; (b) are intrusive and unwanted; and (c) evoke fear in the victim. Stalkers scored significantly higher than controls on measures of insecure attachment and borderline personality features, suggesting that the stalking group demonstrates a general pattern of inadequate interpersonal attachment, has limited abilities to form and maintain appropriate relationships, is emotionally labile and unstable, and experiences ambivalence regarding their interpersonal relationships. Treatment implications are discussed herein.
Demonstration and Interpretation of Bridging Vein Ruptures in Cases of Infantile Subdural Bleedings
Authors: Maxeiner H
Published: August 2015

Report of two cases of lethal infantile subdural bleedings (SDB). Bridging vein (BV) ruptures were directly proven as the source of the (minimal) SDB by a postmortem X-ray. In the controversial discussion concerning the causes of infantile SDB, proof of the occurrence of several BV ruptures is seen as an important sign of a trauma of significant degree. Although infantile SDB undoubtedly can result from accidental as well as intentional injuries, and therefore, the SDB itself does not allow far-reaching conclusions as to the cause of injury, the presence of several BV ruptures combined with an SDB of insignificant volume, in an infant dead or in a deep coma on clinical presentation, is not compatible with the supposition of a minor fall as the cause. We have not observed such findings as the result of a minor accidental event for more than 15 years.
Intratracheal Gas Analysis for Volatile Substances by Gas chromatography/Mass Spectrometry—Application to Forensic Autopsies
Authors: Takayasu T , Ohshima T , Kondo T , Sato Y
Published: August 2015

Intratracheal gas analysis was carried out by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in 20 burned body cases (13 males and 7 females). Volatile aromatic and alihatic hydrocarbons were detected by GC/MS using a GS-Q column with the intratracheal gas as well as the blood in 19 cases. The characteristic patterns of mass chromatograms for gasoline, kerosene (gas oil), and liquid petroleum gas could be differentiated from each other using the intratracheal gas. The burned body in one case showed no presence of volatile substances in the intratracheal gas, nor intratracheal soot, although high concentrations (1 μg/g and more) of volatile substances were detected on the clothes. The victim also had normal CO-Hb concentrations (0.1 to 0.2%) in the heart blood. The results of intratracheal gas analysis were consistent with signs of the vital reaction. In conclusion, intratracheal gas analysis provides a supportive method for diagnosing the cause of death in burned bodies, and yields for at least 48 hours valuable information on volatile hydrocarbons (being detected in deliberate or accidental fire cases) to which the body had been exposed just before death.
Zolpidem and Driving Impairment
Authors: Logan BK , Couper FJ
Published: August 2015

Zolpidem, a non-benzodiazepine hypnotic, was identified in the blood of 29 subjects arrested for impaired driving. Zolpidem concentrations ranged from 0.05 to 1.4 mg/L (mean 0.29 mg/L, median 0.19 mg/L). In the subjects whose cases we reviewed where zolpidem was present with other drugs and/or alcohol, symptoms reported were generally those of CNS depression. Symptoms included slow movements and reactions, slow and slurred speech, poor coordination, lack of balance, flaccid muscle tone, and horizontal and vertical gaze nystagmus. In five separate cases, where zolpidem was the only drug detected (0.08–1.40 mg/L, mean 0.65 mg/L, median 0.47 mg/L), signs of impairment included slow and slurred speech, slow reflexes, disorientation, lack of balance and co-ordination, and “blacking out.” Although no quantitative relationship between blood concentrations and degree of driving impairment is currently possible, it is reasonable to conclude that because of its specific activity as a sleep inducer, blood concentrations consistent with therapeutic doses of zolpidem have the potential to affect driving in a negative way, and that concentrations above the normal therapeutic range would further impair a person's level of consciousness and driving ability.
DNA Typing Results from Two Urban Subpopulations of Pakistan
Authors: Rahman Z , Afroze T , Weir BS
Published: August 2015

A population genetic characterization of the Araeen and Raajpoot ethnic subpopulations of Lahore City, Pakistan was undertaken in order to assess the utility of DNA typing for forensic purposes in Pakistani populations. One hundred unrelated individuals from each group were genotyped for four independently assorting loci: HLA DQA1, CSF1PO, TPOX, and TH01. Allele frequencies were calculated, one- and two-locus tests for association were conducted, and the samples were compared by contingency table tests and F-statistic estimation. Although there is expected to be some genetic divergence between the two groups, forensic needs may be satisfied with a single Pakistani database of DNA profiles. The present data suggest that nine independently assorting loci will be sufficient to provide estimated profile probabilities of the order of 10−9 but a set of 13 loci, as employed in the U.S., would better compensate for the dependencies introduced by family membership and evolutionary history.
The Structure, Frequency, and Forensic Application of the STR Locus D16S543 in the Japanese Population
Authors: Liu C , Ota M , Katsuyama Y , Takayanagi K , Asamura H , Fukushima H
Published: August 2015

D16S543 is a complex STR locus consisting of five types of repeat units. The frequency distribution and genetic characteristics of this locus in Japanese were investigated using blood samples from 124 unrelated Japanese and 15 families. Alleles were detected using denatured polyacrylamide gels followed by automated analysis on an ABI 373 sequencer using Genescan software 672. Twenty-one alleles were identified, ranging in size from 281 to 489 bp. An allelic ladder containing the 21 alleles was constructed and used as a typing standard. The repeat unit arrays allowed the 21 alleles to be classified into three distinct groups, including alleles 1 to 7 in group I, alleles 8 to 14 in group II, and alleles 15 to 22 in group III. The alleles in group II were characterized by the insertion of one repeat unit of CAGG, one of AAAG, and three of AAGG, while the group III alleles differed from those of groups I and II by the insertion of a total of 32 repeat units ranging in 5 types. Within each group, the alleles differed from each other only in one 5′ side tetranucleotide AAGG. The power of discrimination (Pd) and the estimated heterozygosity were calculated to be 0.989 and 0.934, respectively. Typing of this locus was successfully applied in four old forensic materials. The study presented herein demonstrates that D16S543 is a highly polymorphic and applicable locus in Japanese.
Natural DNA Mixtures Generated in Fraternal Twins in utero
Authors: Rubocki RJ , McCue BJ , Duffy KJ , Shepard KL , Shepherd SJ , Wisecarver JL
Published: August 2015

Analysis of multiple genetic loci using short tandem repeats (STR) is widely used in human identity testing because the extensive polymorphism at these loci allows for a high degree of discrimination among individuals. We recently received a forensic case that included several pieces of evidence and reference blood samples. Upon initial testing, one of the suspects had a DNA profile that included three alleles at four of the nine loci tested (vWA, FGA, TH01, and D5S818). At each locus, two of the alleles appeared to be “major” alleles with a third “minor” allele present. The profile appeared to be a mixture of two people. Contamination of this first reference sample was suspected and a second, unopened blood specimen was requested from this individual. The DNA profile from this second reference specimen was identical to that of the original specimen at each locus. One of the evidence samples also displayed an identical mixed DNA profile matching that of the reference specimens mentioned above. The relative peak heights of the two “major” and one “minor” allele remained constant in all three samples. Additional background information revealed that the suspect had not received a bone marrow transplant or blood transfusion. However, it was disclosed that this individual is a fraternal (dizygotic) twin. We hypothesize that an exchange of blood cells between the fetuses occurred in utero and that the additional alleles present in these reference samples are derived from cells contributed by his twin sibling. No additional specimens from the suspect or his twin could be obtained for confirmation, and our hypothesis remains untested. Forensic scientists should be aware of this possibility when faced with a DNA profile in which extra alleles at multiple loci are detected.
A Silica-Based Mitochondrial DNA Extraction Method Applied to Forensic Hair Shafts and Teeth
Authors: Baker LE , McCormick WF , Matteson KJ
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the applicability of a nonorganic DNA extraction method for use in the analysis of environmentally compromised forensic hair shaft and tooth samples. The condition of the samples included cases of water decomposition, severe incineration, and varying stages of putrefaction. Enzymatic amplification and manual sequencing of the first segment of the mitochondrial hypervariable region were performed successfully on each of the 20 autopsied individuals. The results indicate that the silica-based extraction method produces mtDNA suitable for genetic identification from forensic samples including hair shafts and teeth.
Scanning Electron Microscopy Determination of String Mozzarella Cheese in Gastric Contents
Authors: Platek SF , Crowe JB , Ranieri N , Wolnik KA
Published: August 2015

As part of a suspected homicide investigation, a sampling of the gastric contents from the victim was forwarded to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's Forensic Chemistry Center (FCC) for analysis of specific, selected components. The victim was known to have consumed string mozzarella cheese, as a snack, less than 24 h before his disappearance and the subsequent discovery of the body. The investigation sought to confirm or dismiss speculation the victim may have been fed a meal or eaten additional food prior to his death. Analysis of the stomach contents involved examination by stereoscopic light microscopy (SLM) and isolation, processing, and analysis of suspect materials by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Several wax-like, off-white to cream-colored objects were noted by SLM examination and removed from the gastric contents. Through a series of fixation, sectioning, drying, and coating steps, these objects were prepared for analysis by SEM. Comparison of the suspect material with laboratory control string mozzarella cheese showed excellent correlation between the analyzed samples, confirming the suspect material from the stomach contents as string mozzarella cheese.
Supermarket Tampering: Cocaine Detected in Syringes and in Fruit
Authors: Tomlinson JA , Crowe JB , Ranieri N , Kindig JP , Platek SF
Published: August 2015

Product tampering, as detailed by the Federal Anti-Tampering Act of 1983 (1), is a felony punishable by both fine and imprisonment. The rationale for product tampering ranges from pranks and attention seeking acts to extortion, terrorism, and homicide. One such case submitted for analysis involved four medical syringes found in a supermarket and suspected of being used to tamper with various products. One of the syringes was found piercing a pear while the other three syringes were found with needles exposed in other parts of the supermarket. Microscopic analysis was used to collect residue from the syringe barrels and the pear. A multidiscipline approach involving SLM, PLM, including microchemical analysis, FTIR, and GC/MS analyses, performed on the residual liquid found in the syringe barrels and in the suspect pear, confirmed the presence of cocaine. This multidisciplinary approach is often necessary when there is a possible health risk to the public and rapid response is important. With this approach, it was quickly determined which drugs or poisons were used in this tampering.
Examination of Lightbulb Filaments After a Car Crash: Difficulties in Interpreting the Results
Authors: Lavabre R , Baudoin P
Published: August 2015

A drunk car driver was involved in a fatal crash with a scooter at night. Examination of the lightbulbs from the vehicles revealed some mechanical and analytical incompatibilities. The laboratory's initial observations led to complementary police investigations which finally solved the first incompatibility. The different precautions taken by the technical police investigators on the crime scene finally allowed the forensic scientists to establish the functional state of the lightbulbs during the crash.
Polyclonal Systemic Immunoblast Proliferation: An Unusual Hematologic Entity Presenting as a Medical Examiner Case
Authors: Baker AM , Davis DW , Berg KK
Published: August 2015

A 43-year-old woman who was receiving oral antibiotics for several days for a superficial foot infection developed a persistent rash, fever, and lymphadenopathy, despite discontinuation of the antibiotic and administration of steroids for a presumed drug reaction. Hours after a subsequent visit to the emergency room for worsening symptoms, she died at home. At autopsy, there was a florid, systemic proliferation of polyclonal plasma cells and immunoblasts infiltrating nearly every organ and tissue of the body, most notably the lymph nodes and spleen. The polyclonal nature of the process was confirmed by immunofixation electrophoresis and immunohistochemistry. Cases of fatal polyclonal systemic immunoblast proliferations are extremely rare, and the trigger for such proliferations is not always known. We review the literature on this unusual entity and discuss the clinical and pathologic findings.
Wounding Characteristics of Glaser Safety Ammunition: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: de Roux SJ , Prendergast NC , Tamburri R
Published: August 2015

Handgun ammunition that contains multiple pellets (birdshot) comes in two forms. We describe here the autopsy and radiographic findings in three individuals who were fatally wounded with Glaser safety ammunition and contrast the findings to those reported in shot shell injuries.
Pesticide Poisoning Initially Suspected as a Natural Death
Authors: Yamazaki M , Terada M , Kuroki H , Honda K , Matoba R , Mitsukuni Y
Published: August 2015

A pesticide poisoning victim suspected initially as having died a natural death was autopsied. The victim was a 47-year-old male. Macroscopically, signs of acute death and, in particular, general erosion in the mucosa of the airways and esophagus were observed. In the gastric contents, which had a pungent smell and a greenish-brown color, 5.00 g/L of propanil, 1.27 g/L of carbaryl, 0.38 g/L of ethylbenzene, and 0.32 g/L of xylene were detected. In the blood (serum), 21.6 mg/L of propanil, 8.1 mg/L of carbaryl, 1.7 mg/L of ethylbenzene, and 4.0 mg/L of xylene were identified. Postmortem methemoglobinemia (45%) was recognized. The cause of death was considered to have been pesticide poisoning; propanil was probably most responsible for his death. The police considered the case to be “death with illness as the suspected cause.” By performing an autopsy, however, we were able to clarify that the cause of death was pesticide poisoning.
Cardiac Rupture Following Blunt Trauma
Authors: Durak D
Published: August 2015

A case of cardiac rupture following blunt trauma with no additional injuries is described. This can be a difficult diagnosis because of the presence of additional injuries and the lack of clinical symptoms. Here, there was a rupture of the pericardium, all chambers of the heart and the thoracic aorta.
Mitochondrial DNA Analysis of the Presumptive Remains of Jesse James
Authors: Stone AC , Starrs JE , Stoneking M
Published: August 2015

We report here the results of mtDNA analysis of remains exhumed in July, 1995 from Mt. Olivet Cemetery in Kearney, Nebraska, that are thought to be those of Jesse James. The remains were poorly preserved, presumably due to wet and slightly acidic soil conditions, and insufficient DNA for analysis was obtained from two bone samples. However, two of four teeth, and two hairs recovered in 1978 from the original burial site on the James Farm, did yield reproducible mtDNA sequences. These mtDNA sequences from the teeth and hairs were all identical, suggesting that they came from the same individual; furthermore, this mtDNA sequence was identical to mtDNA sequences determined from blood samples from two maternal relatives of Jesse James. Therefore, either the remains are indeed those of Jesse James, or they are from an unrelated individual who, by chance, happens to have the same mtDNA sequence. To assess the probability that an unrelated individual would have the same sequence, we searched the forensic mtDNA database, and found that this sequence does not appear among the 2426 mtDNA sequences therein. Hence, the mtDNA analysis supports the identification of the exhumed remains from Mt. Olivet Cemetery as those of Jesse James.
Uruguayan Population Data for Eight STR Loci (Using the PowerPlex 1.2™ Kit)
Authors: Pagano S , Alvarez JC , Entrala C , Lorente JA , Lorente M , Budowle B , Villanueva E
Published: August 2015

Uruguayan Population Data for Eight STR Loci (Using the PowerPlex 1.2™ Kit)
Allele Frequencies and Haplotypes of Ten Y-Specific STRs in the Japanese Population
Authors: Nonaka I , Minaguchi K
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequencies and Haplotypes of Ten Y-Specific STRs in the Japanese Population
Population Data on Eight STR Loci in Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Authors: Gangitano DA , Juvenal GJ , Lorente JA , Budowle B , Padula RA
Published: August 2015

Population Data on Eight STR Loci in Buenos Aires (Argentina)
Population Data for Nine Fluorescent Based STR Loci Among Four Important Tribal Populations of India
Authors: Chattopadhyay P , Ranjan D , Kashyap VK
Published: August 2015

Population Data for Nine Fluorescent Based STR Loci Among Four Important Tribal Populations of India
Distribution of Alleles D16S539, D7S820, D13S317 in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Baldassarra SL , Nunno ND , Carbonara M , Mangiatordi S , Viola L , Nunno CD
Published: August 2015

Distribution of Alleles D16S539, D7S820, D13S317 in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Allele Frequency Distributions for D1S1656, D8S1132, D10S2325, D18S51, and D21S11 Loci in a North Italy Population
Authors: Turrina S , De Leo D , Marigo M , Tiso N , Danieli GA
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequency Distributions for D1S1656, D8S1132, D10S2325, D18S51, and D21S11 Loci in a North Italy Population
A Population-Genetic Study of the DYS385 Haplotypes in Two Spanish Populations and the African Immigrant Population in Spain
Authors: Gamero J-J , Romero J-L , González J-L , Carvalho M , Anjos M-J , Corte-Real F , Vieira D-N , Vide M-C
Published: August 2015

A Population-Genetic Study of the DYS385 Haplotypes in Two Spanish Populations and the African Immigrant Population in Spain
The AICEF/GITAD: Latin American Academy of Criminalistics and Forensic Studies
Authors: Lorente JA , Powers RH
Published: August 2015

The AICEF/GITAD: Latin American Academy of Criminalistics and Forensic Studies
Detection of Deviation from Genetic Equilibrium—A Commentary on Budowle B, Moretti TR, Baumstark AL, Defenbaugh DA, Keys KM. Population Data on the Thirteen CODIS Core Short Tandem Repeat Loci in African Americans, US Caucasians, Hispanics, Jamaicans, and Trinidadians. J Forensic Sci 1999;44:1277–86
Authors: Buckleton J , Triggs CM , Curran JM , Budowle B , Chakraborty R
Published: August 2015

Detection of Deviation from Genetic Equilibrium—A Commentary on Budowle B, Moretti TR, Baumstark AL, Defenbaugh DA, Keys KM. Population Data on the Thirteen CODIS Core Short Tandem Repeat Loci in African Americans, US Caucasians, Hispanics, Jamaicans, and Trinidadians. J Forensic Sci 1999;44:1277–86
Review of: Causes of Death Atlas Series: Time of Death, Decomposition, and Identification, an Atlas; Asphyxia and Drowning, an Atlas; and Investigation of Road Traffic Fatalities, an Atlas
Authors: Simson LR
Published: August 2015

Each of these concise volumes is part of a Causes of Death Atlas series. Each deals with the title subject by narrative discussion followed by numerous black and white captioned photographs. (Some of these photographs are found, as color reproductions, in Color Atlas of Forensic Pathology, Dix J. CRP Press, Boca Raton, FL, 2000. A number of the photographs have been recaptioned.)
Review of: Color Atlas of Forensic Pathology
Authors: Simson LR
Published: August 2015

This is a collection of 750 color photographs illustrating post-mortem changes, natural diseases, and injuries commonly seen during the course of death investigations. Brief discussions preceed each of the major topic areas, and the caption with each photograph is adequate to focus the readers' attention to the feature(s) being illustrated.
Review of: Mass Fatality and Casualty Incidents. A Field Guide
Authors: Simson LR
Published: August 2015

The author recommends that you read through this entire “field guide,” and that you ask yourself how you or your agency fits into the response to mass fatality and casualty incidents. This seemed like strange advice for a book with a “field guide” format, including numerous lists and outlines of procedures. However, having followed the author's advice, I concur with his recommendation.
A New Perspective in the Estimation of Postmortem Interval (PMI) Based on Vitreous [K+]
Authors: Muñoz JI , Suárez-Peñaranda JM , Otero XL , Rodríguez-Calvo MS , Costas E , Miguéns X , Concheiro L
Published: August 2015

The relation between the potassium concentration in the vitreous humor, [K+], and the postmortem interval has been studied by several authors. Many formulae are available and they are based on a correlation test and linear regression using the PMI as the independent variable and [K+] as the dependent variable. The estimation of the confidence interval is based on this formulation. However, in forensic work, it is necessary to use [K+] as the independent variable to estimate the PMI.

Although all authors have obtained the PMI by direct use of these formulae, it is, nevertheless, an inexact approach, which leads to false estimations. What is required is to change the variables, obtaining a new equation in which [K+] is considered as the independent variable and the PMI as the dependent. The regression line obtained from our data is [K+] = 5.35 + 0.22 PMI, by changing the variables we get PMI = 2.58[K+] − 9.30. When only nonhospital deaths are considered, the results are considerably improved. In this case, we get [K+] = 5.60 + 0.17 PMI and, consequently, PMI = 3.92[K+] − 19.04.
Differences in Osteon Banding Between Human and Nonhuman Bone
Authors: Mulhern DM , Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

The objective of this paper is to compare patterns of osteon organization in human and nonhuman bone. A linear organization of Haversian systems in nonhuman bone, where osteons line up in rows, has been reported but has not been quantified. The present research provides a quantitative examination of this observation through a comparative analysis of the femoral midshaft from human and nonhuman bone. Femoral midshaft thin sections from 60 humans were compared to femoral midshaft sections from nine sheep and six miniature swine. The presence or absence of osteon banding was recorded and, if present, described. Results indicate that 2 out of 60 human sections and 5 out of 15 nonhuman sections exhibit osteon banding (x2 = 9.46; p < 0.01). Further, the type of banding present in the human and nonhuman samples is easily distinguished, indicating that human and nonhuman bone can be distinguished where banding is present in this study.
Examination of Variation in Sternal Rib End Morphology Relevant to Age Assessment
Authors: Yoder C , Ubelaker DH , Powell JF
Published: August 2015

The morphology of the sternal end of the right fourth rib has been proffered as an accurate age assessor in skeletonized individuals of both sexes. This technique was tested for its applicability on left and right II, III, V–IX. Tests were performed between phase scores obtained from right and left ribs; right rib IV phase scores and scores obtained from the others in the right rib series; and between right rib IV scores and a composite score composed of the average of an individual's phase scores (omitting rib IV). Left ribs IV–IX were found not to vary significantly from their right counterparts. Although only right rib II was found to vary significantly from rib IV, use of the other ribs in the series should be undertaken with caution due to questions concerning their statistical significance. A composite score is therefore recommended for use instead.
Macroscopic Characteristics of Hacking Trauma
Authors: Humphrey JH , Hutchinson DL
Published: August 2015

Hacking trauma is often encountered in forensic cases, but little experimental research has been conducted that would allow for the recognition of wounds caused by specific weapon types. In this paper, we report the results of a hacking trauma caused by machete, cleaver, and axe weapons and the characteristics of each weapon type on bone. Each weapon type was employed in multiple trials on pig (Sus scrofa) bones and then the wounds were examined macroscopically for several characteristics that serve to differentiate the weapons.
Microscopic Characteristics of Hacking Trauma
Authors: Tucker BK , Hutchinson DL , Gilliland MFG , Charles TM , Daniel HJ , Wolfe LD
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine if it is possible to associate machetes, axes, and cleavers with the microscopic parallel striations they leave on the cut surfaces of the bone. Hacking trauma was experimentally inflicted on pig bones using machetes, axes, and cleavers. Negative impressions of both the cut surfaces of the bone and the weapon blades were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy. The results of this investigation indicate that it is possible to correlate a class of hacking weapons to trauma inflicted on bone by these weapons.
Improved MtDNA Sequence Analysis of Forensic Remains Using a “Mini-Primer Set” Amplification Strategy
Authors: Gabriel MN , Huffine EF , Ryan JH , Holland MM , Parsons TJ
Published: August 2015

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis of highly degraded skeletal remains is often used for forensic identification due largely to the high genome copy number per cell. Literature from the “ancient DNA” field has shown that highly degraded samples contain populations of intact DNA molecules that are severely restricted in size (1–4). Hand et al. have demonstrated the targeting and preferential amplification of authentic human DNA sequences with small amplicon products of 150 bp or less (1,2). Given this understanding of ancient DNA preservation and amplification, we report an improved approach to forensic mtDNA analysis of hypervariable regions 1 and 2 (HV1/HV2) in highly degraded specimens. This “mini-primer set” (MPS) amplification strategy consists of four overlapping products that span each of the HV regions and range from 126 to 170 bp, with an average size of 141 bp. For this study, 11 extracts representing a range of sample quality were prepared from nonprobative forensic specimens. We demonstrate a significant increase in MPS amplification success when compared to testing methods using ∼250 bp amplicons. Further, 16 of 17 independent amplifications previously “unreported” due to mixed sequences provided potentially reportable sequence data from a single, authentic template with MPS testing.
An Environmental Survey Relating to Improvised and Emulsion/Gel Explosives
Authors: Walker C , Cullum H , Hiley R
Published: August 2015

The detection and identification of traces of inorganic ions and sugars can play a major role in the forensic investigation of an explosives related incident. This survey investigated the background levels of these substances in the general environment. Six sampling locations were selected from around the mainland of the United Kingdom, representing urban and rural sites. Swab and vacuum samples were collected from different locations within each site including motor vehicles, private houses, hotels, the exterior of buildings, road surfaces, and street signs. Sampling was carried out in summer and winter to investigate changes in the levels of the target species due to seasonal factors such as road treatments or weather. The samples were extracted with water and analyzed for a range of inorganic anions, cations, and sugars using ion chromatography. Most of the target anions were found to be common to all locations. Chloride, sulphate, nitrate, and phosphate were found to be the most common and the most abundant. Chlorate was found at a low level in some external samples. Perchlorate and thiocyanate were not detected in any samples. There was a marked increase in the quantity of sodium and chloride detected in samples collected during the winter. Sodium and calcium were detected in most samples. Potassium and magnesium were detected in approximately half of the samples. Ammonium was less common but detected at significant levels in wall samples. Glucose, fructose, and sucrose were detected in the vacuum samples from the interior surfaces of houses, hotels, and cars.
Compositional Analysis for Identification of Arson Accelerants by Electron Ionization Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance High-Resolution Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Rodgers RP , Blumer EN , Freitas MA , Marshall AG
Published: August 2015

Elemental compositions of each of 100 to 500 different constituents (i.e., every peak in a mass-to-charge ratio range, 50 < m/z < 300) of lighter fluid, kerosene, turpatine, gasoline, diesel fuel, and two brands of mineral spirits (and their weathered analogs) make possible direct identification of each accelerant in a experimental fire, based on electron ionization 6.0 Tesla Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance (EI FT-ICR) ultrahigh resolution mass spectrometry. Septum injection of as little as 500 nL of accelerant into an all-glass heated inlet system yields definitive elemental compositions (molecular formulas) based on accurate (< ±1 ppm average error) mass measurement alone. Extraction and EI FT-ICR mass analysis of fire debris from a controlled burn of a couch with simple (lighter fluid) and complex (turpatine) ignitable liquid yielded dozens of elemental compositions serving as a unique “fingerprint” for each petroleum product, despite the presence of up to 249 additional extracted matrix and pyrolysis components. Forty-five of 56 lighter fluid constituents and 126 of 133 turpatine constituents (not counting 13C-containing species) were identified in the debris from a fire staged for each respective accelerant.
The Application of Signal Detection Theory to Decision-Making in Forensic Science
Authors: Phillips VL , Saks MJ , Peterson JL
Published: August 2015

Signal Detection Theory (SDT) has come to be used in a wide variety of fields where noise and imperfect signals present challenges to the task of separating hits and correct rejections from misses and false alarms. The application of SDT helps illuminate and improve the quality of decision-making in those fields in a number of ways. The present article is designed to make SDT more accessible to forensic scientists by: (a) explaining what SDT is and how it works, (b) explicating the potential usefulness of SDT to forensic science, (c) illustrating SDT analysis using forensic science data, and (d) suggesting ways to gain the benefits SDT analyses in the course of carrying out existing programs of quality assessment and other research on forensic science examinations.
A Classification of Psychological Factors Leading to Violent Behavior in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Silva JA , Derecho DV , Leong GB , Weinstock R , Ferrari MM
Published: August 2015

Posttraumatic stress disorder has long been linked to violent behavior. However, the exact nature of that association remains poorly characterized due to the limitations of knowledge in the area of phenomenology, contextual factors, the biology, and the nature of the aggression involved in the disorder. A clear understanding of the genesis of violence in posttraumatic stress disorder can be helpful to those involved in assessing psychiatric-legal issues relevant to the disorder and in its therapeutic management. In this article, we review the potential psychological links between post-traumatic stress disorder secondary to combat exposure and violent behavior and suggest a tentative classification of the main psychological causes of violence in that syndrome.
Multiple-Probe Thermography for Estimating the Postmortem Interval: I. Continuous Monitoring and Data Analysis of Brain, Liver, Rectal and Environmental Temperatures in 117 Forensic Cases
Authors: Al-Alousi LM , Anderson RA , Worster DM , Land DD
Published: August 2015

One hundred seventeen forensic postmortem cases have been studied under controlled conditions. In each case, temperatures of the brain, liver, rectum, and the environment were monitored over a period beginning shortly after death and ending up to 60 h postmortem. The four temperature measurements were recorded every 5 to 10 min using the Microwave Thermography System. Rectal and environmental temperatures were measured by electrical thermocouples while brain and liver temperatures were measured using microwave probes. Data acquisition, analogue-to-digital conversion (ADC), and data processing were provided by a microcomputer. The ADC technique is described and its problems are discussed. The data were then transferred to a mainframe computer for extensive curve-fitting and statistical analysis. The microcomputer-based ADC and data logging and acquisition were found to be accurate, fast, easy to implement, and useful for the field. The postmortem rate of human body cooling was found to be adequately represented by triple-exponential equations.
Multiple-Probe Thermography for Estimating the Postmortem Interval: II. Practical Versions of the Triple-Exponential Formulae (TEF) for Estimating the Time of Death in the Field
Authors: Al-Alousi LM , Anderson RA , Worster DM , Land DD
Published: August 2015

A simple, reliable, and relatively accurate method for estimating the time since death is described. It is based on the Triple-Exponential Formulae (TEF), which are devised for the first time in this study. The postmortem cooling rate of the brain, liver, and rectum in 117 forensic cases were investigated (Part I). The method can be used in the field as a computer program, reference graph, or reference chart-ruler. The program is simple and can easily be run by any user. There are six reference graphs representing the average brain, liver, and rectal cooling curves for naked and covered body groups. The ruler is designed for the rectal cooling curves for covered and naked bodies. This method requires one temperature measurement of the chosen body site and the environment. The postmortem interval is estimated as a probable value ± a possible range of time estimates with a built-in confidence limit.
Immunostaining by Complement C9: A Tool for Early Diagnosis of Myocardial Infarction and Application in Forensic Medicine
Authors: Piercecchi-Marti M-D , Lepidi H , Leonetti G , Vire O , Cianfarani F , Pellissier J-F
Published: August 2015

Before the first 12 hours, diagnosis of early myocardial infarctions is always difficult for forensic pathologists. We tested complement C9 expression in 121 formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded heart samples by an immunohistochemical procedure. The heart specimens were separated into four groups: 33 cases in group 1 with typical ischemic damages histologically located, 20 cases in group 2 with death related to myocardial infarction on the basis of ischemic presentation on electrocardiogram but no obvious histological ischemic damage, 35 cases in group 3 with severe coronary disease without cause of death found at the autopsy, and 33 cases in group 4 without sign of myocardial infarction and without coronary disease. In the first group, all 33 heart samples showed a well-defined C9 expression in the necrotic areas. The second group in 17 of 20 cases showed positive areas for C9 expression. In the other three heart specimens, only few stained cells were observed whereas the painful symptoms had begun less than 1 h before death. The third group showed C9 immunopositive areas in six of 35 cases, few stained cells in 8 cases, and no C9 deposition in the 21 other cases. The last group showed no staining area. To avoid nonspecific C9 staining due to tissue autolysis, we studied C9 expression during a controlled putrefactive process in four cases included in group 1; staining was found only in infarcted myocardial areas, and was observed up to ten days. Specificity of C9 expression was evaluated to be 100% [89.4 to 100%] and sensitivity to be 85% [62.11 to 96.79%]. In conclusion, evaluation of immunohistochemical expression of C9 appears to be a highly sensitive and specific marker of early myocardial infarction, useful in forensic medicine if survival is more than 1 h after the beginning of myocyte damage.
Comparison of the Rates of Hydrolysis of Lorazepam-Glucuronide, Oxazepam-Glucuronide and Temazepam-Glucuronide Catalyzed by E. Coli. β-D-Glucuronidase Using the On-line Benzodiazepine Screening Immunoassay on the Roche/Hitachi 917 Analyzer
Authors: Dou C , Bournique JS , Zinda MK , Gnezda M , McNally AJ , Salamone SJ
Published: August 2015

The catalytic rates of hydrolysis of lorazepam-glucuronide, oxazepam-glucuronide, and temazepam-glucuronide when catalyzed by E. Coli. β-glucuronidase both in phosphate buffer and buffered drug-free urine were compared as well as the pH dependence of enzyme activity. In 50 mM phosphate buffer pH 6.4, lorazepam-glucuronide has the highest turnover rate of 3.7 s−1 with an associated Km of about 100 µM. followed by oxazepam-glucuronide, which has a turnover rate of 2.4 s−1 with an associated Km of 60 µM. Temazepam-glucuronide has the lowest rate of 0.94 s−1 with an associated Km of 34 µM. In buffered drug-free urine, a similar trend was observed. In addition, an optimal pH for β-glucuronidase was determined to be between 6 and 7 when the enzyme hydrolyzes the benzodiazepine conjugates in buffered drug-free urine. Effects of temperature and incubation time were also examined. It can be concluded that the electron donating or withdrawing of the individual benzodiazepine structure may play an important role in the reactivity of the lorazepam-glucuronide, oxazepam-glucuronide and temazepam-glucuronide catalyzed by β-glucuronidase. This is consistent with other observations made for monosubstituted phenyl-β-glucuronides by Wang et al. (1).
Evaluation of Capillary Electrophoresis Performance Through Resolution Measurements
Authors: Buel E , LaFountain M , Schwartz M , Walkinshaw M
Published: August 2015

The application of resolution measurements to an electrophoretic system can give a quantitative analysis of the health of that system. Capillary electrophoresis has become a routine method for the analysis of DNA and resolution measurements can be used to assess the resulting electropherogram. A number of methods are available to evaluate resolution and three methods are detailed in the current work. Parameters such as polymer concentration and column length were also examined in terms of resolution, and changes therein, if these parameters were modified.
Identifying Sex Chromosome Abnormalities in Forensic DNA Testing Using Amelogenin and Sex Chromosome Short Tandem Repeats
Authors: Young DR , Tun Z , Honda K , Matoba R
Published: August 2015

Forensic DNA laboratories worldwide have begun using multiplexed STR systems to decrease analysis time and increase sample throughput. The loci used in these systems are basically “nonsense” regions of human DNA. However, due to the chromosome on which some of these loci are located, various genetic abnormalities can sometimes be detected. This paper will show one such abnormality—Klinefelter's Syndrome—and the process used to show the possibility of this defect in two undiagnosed males using peak height ratios at the Amelogenin locus, and X-Y STRs.
An Assessment of Four Solvents for the Recovery of 2-Chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile and Capsaicins from “CS” and “Pepper” Type Lachrymator Sprays, and an Examination of Their Persistence on Cotton Fabric
Authors: Lewis K , Lewis RJ
Published: August 2015

The rising incidence of assaults involving lachrymator sprays has led to an increase in items being submitted to this laboratory for the analysis of the associated chemical residues. The following work was undertaken to identify an efficient solvent with which to extract the compounds of interest from cotton fabric. The persistence and subsequent recovery of such compounds was also examined following protracted exposure to wind and rain.

Ethyl acetate was established as the most efficient solvent of those examined for the extraction of 2-chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile and a range of capsaicins from “CS Gas” and “Pepper” sprays respectively. Controlled experiments undertaken showed that capsaicins were recoverable after 72 h of exposure to the “elements” and 2-chlorobenzylidenemalononitrile was still recoverable after one week.
Stature Estimation from Radiographically Determined Long Bone Length in a Spanish Population Sample
Authors: Muñoz JI , Liñares-Iglesias M , Suárez-Peñaranda JM , Mayo M , Miguéns X , Rodríguez-Calvo MS , Concheiro L
Published: August 2015

The estimation of stature from of a variety of bones is an important aspect of forensic work. In order to obtain reliable results, it is important to have comparative data obtained from the same population group as the skeletal remains. However, lack of up to date information on the population groups of Southern Europe makes the estimation of stature from bones in this area subject to possible error. In this study, the stature of 104 healthy adults from Spain was measured, and an anteroposterior teleradiograph of the right lower and the right upper limb of every subject in the study was made in order to measure the lengths of the femur, tibia, fibula, humerus, cubitus and ulna.

Pearson's regression formulae were obtained for both limbs. In males, we found the femur to be the most accurate predictor of stature (R = 0.851), whereas in females best results were obtained with the tibia (R = 0.876).
Hyperostosis Cranii Ex Vacuo in Adults: A Consequence of Brain Atrophy from Diverse Causes
Authors: Wolf DA , Falsetti AB
Published: August 2015

Hyperostosis cranii ex vacuo is diffuse thickening of the bones of the cranium occurring after successful ventricular shunting in hydrocephalic children, presumably as a compensatory phenomenon. We present three adults with severe brain atrophy and correspondingly severe skull thickening. In each, the cause of cerebral atrophy was well defined, and none had undergone ventricular shunting. In two, brain atrophy resulted from different temporally discrete insults sustained in adult life, ischemic in one and traumatic in the other. In the third case, progressive brain atrophy resulted from a primary neurodegenerative disorder, Hallervordan Spatz disease. Our observations suggest that hyperostosis cranii ex vacuo is a more general phenomenon than has been previously recognized, and point to a relationship between dynamic changes in brain size and skull thickness. We suggest that such relationships should be taken into account in anthropometric evaluation of the skull.
The Application of Minisatellite Variant Repeat Mapping by PCR (MVR-PCR) in a Paternity Case Showing False Exclusion Due to STR Mutation
Authors: Yamamoto T , Tamaki K , Huang X-L , Yoshimoto T , Mizutani M , Uchihi R , Katsumata Y , Jeffreys AJ
Published: August 2015

A boy and a girl with their mother brought a paternity suit against an alleged but deceased father. We tested six conventional genetic markers, the AmpliType PM+DQA1 and twelve STR loci the children and mother together with the alleged paternal grandparents. We also DNA typed the bloodstain found later in the alleged father's medical record. Only the result at D3S1358 in a nineplex STR system excluded the alleged father from parentage of the boy, whereas all markers were inclusive for the girl. Accordingly, we performed sequence analysis at D3S1358 to confirm the presence of a paternal exclusion or mutation. The sequence analysis indicated that the boy's allele 17 could have originated from either of the alleged father's allele 16 or 18 by a single-step mutation associated with slippage mutation in STR loci. We carried out minisatellite variant repeat mapping by PCR (MVR-PCR) at loci D1S8 (MS32) and D7S21 (MS31A) and mapped allele haplotypes of all individuals except the deceased alleged father. The MVR-PCR analysis showed that the boy has no inconsistency with the relationship between the alleged grandparents, and was very effective at increasing the paternity index (PI) value. We conclude that there is biological relationship between not only the girl but also the boy and the alleged father.