bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chemical Reagents for the Development of Latent Fingerprints. I: Scope and Limitations of the Reagent 4-Dimethylamino-Cinnamaldehyde
Authors: Sasson Y , Almog J
Published: July 2015

Among the chemical reagents that are currently used for the development of latent fingerprints on paper, ninhydrin is undoubtedly the most common [1]. Yet the ninhydrin method suffers from several disadvantages because the reaction is slow and requires heat for complete development. Sometimes the method is misleading because of background reactions [1,2], and not all individuals excrete sufficient perspiration to leave latent prints identifiable with ninhydrin [3].
A Review of Forensic Medicine
Authors: Murphy GK
Published: July 2015

Forensic Medicine is an encyclopedic work addressed to all who are interested and involved in medicolegal matters. This book differs significantly from other books in forensic medicine and pathology in that much of it is devoted to the examination, evaluation, and treatment of the living person, injured in either the medical or legal sense, rather than primarily to postmortem studies.
A Review of The Legal Speller
Authors: Sachs JL
Published: July 2015

It is difficult to see what value this speller has to a lawyer. It could possibly be of some aid to a paralegal or legal secretary who does not have access to a legal or medical dictionary.
The Application of a Multistylus Recorder to the Energy Dispersive Analysis of Paint Flakes in the Scanning Electron Microscope
Authors: Meinhold RH , Sharp RM
Published: July 2015

Paint flakes occur as evidence in a wide variety of crimes. Here we shall confine ourselves to the examination of vehicle paints, although the methods are equally applicable to other types of paint.
The Analysis of Drugs in Blood, Bile, and Tissue with an Indirect Homogeneous Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Slightom EL
Published: July 2015

For the past six or seven years analytical methods using antibodies have become an area of serious interest in clinical laboratories, and, as evidenced by the content of recent meetings and publications [1–4], such methods have promise in forensic science.
A Study of False Positives in the Chemical Identification of Marihuana
Authors: Hughes RB , Warner VJ
Published: July 2015

Many authors have reported using the Duquenois, Duquenois-Negm, Duquenois-Levine, or modified Duquenois-Levine color tests on various substances with varying results. Some authors [1] apparently consider any resultant color to be a positive response. Recently this diversity of testing methods has been used by defense lawyers in an attempt to confuse judges and juries. Therefore, a search of the literature was conducted for the various substances reported to give a positive response to any of the above methods; all of those that were commercially available were tested with the modified Duquenois-Levine test and thin-layer chromatography (TLC) employed by this laboratory for marihuana identification. In addition, other compounds of similar structures were selected and tested in like manner, as were minor components of Cannabis resin [2]. Another major objective was to determine if a mixture of materials that would lead to a false positive identification of marihuana could be made.
Heroin Abuse and a Gas Chromatographic Method for Determining Illicit Heroin Samples in Singapore
Authors: Lim HY , Chow ST
Published: July 2015

In the last few years the pattern of drug abuse in Singapore (an island city-republic with a land area of 584 km2 and a population of 2.3 million) has undergone dramatic changes. The changing pattern resulted in the introduction in 1973 of the Misuse of Drugs Act (MDA) to replace the Dangerous Drugs Act and the Drugs (Prevention of Misuse) Act, which were found to be inadequate. The abuse of Mandrax (methaqualone) rose to a high point in 1973 and 1974 [1] but tapered off to almost nil in 1976. However, during this period there was an alarming increase in heroin abuse.
The Postmortem Diagnosis of Magnesium Deficiency: Studies in an Animal Model for the Human Infant
Authors: Caddell JL , Scheppner R
Published: July 2015

Magnesium deficiency is a cause of sudden death in animals [1–5]. Normal-appearing mice experience violent death [3], while cows may die quickly and quietly [4]. The lower the age and weight of the animal when placed on the magnesium-deficient diet, the earlier and more violent the death [2]. Early death may follow a period of rapid growth, particularly if the diet supplies large amounts of protein, calcium, and phosphorus [5].
A Comparison of Absorption-Inhibition and Absorption-Elution Methods in the Detection of ABO(H) Antigens Found in Vaginal Samples Submitted in Sexual Offense Cases
Authors: Graves MH , White JM , Fitzpatrick FA , Kuo MC
Published: July 2015

Absorption-inhibition is a well-established method for the identification of ABO(H) antigens in human body fluids submitted as evidence in sexual offense cases. Absorption-elution has been proposed [1] as an alternative method to inhibition for typing this material. Absorption-elution has several potential advantages over absorption-inhibition, including sensitivity and widespread use.
Gunshot Wounds: Visual and Analytical Procedures
Authors: Stone IC , DiMaio VJM , Petty CS
Published: July 2015

In most instances of death from gunshot wounds, the forensic pathologist is readily able to determine whether or not a particular gunshot wound was inflicted at contact, intermediate, or distant range. In some instances, however, such a determination is virtually impossible. Most difficulty occurs in differentiating a contact wound from a distant wound. A contact wound is apparent when soot is present on the outside of the skin, if there is a muzzle imprint, or if there is tearing of the skin caused by the effects of gas. However, determination of whether a wound is contact or distant can be a problem when (1) the body is decomposed; (2) the deceased has survived days or weeks after the initial wound; (3) the wound is a contact wound and there are multiple layers of clothing that filter out the soot and powder; and (4) the edges of the wound have dried in contact wounds with small caliber weapons.
The Application of Oxygen Plasma Ashing to Gunshot Residue Analysis
Authors: Kinard WD , Midkiff CR
Published: July 2015

In the analysis of hand samples for barium and antimony levels indicative of gunshot residue, severe problems are encountered with swabs contaminated by blood, dirt, or grease. These problems originate from two main sources: decreased effectiveness of sample leaching and high instrumental backgrounds. When the flameless atomic absorption spectroscopy (FAAS) method developed in our laboratory [1] is used, the choice of sample collection materials is restricted to those that can be easily separated from the elements of interest. In our approach, a sample such as a cotton swab is leached with dilute nitric acid to extract any residues present. Surface contamination may make the swab impervious to solvent penetration and, therefore, inefficient leaching occurs. Contaminants such as blood, dirt, or grease on the sample can coat any primer residue particles present and prevent their dissolution in the acid, resulting in the amount of the elements of interest being lower in the solution than expected. The measured level of these elements will thus be lower than that actually present in the sample. Increasing the contact time between solvent and sample, or rigorous agitation to improve solvent attack, usually results in enhancement of the background response during the atomization phase of the AA analysis with no improvement in analytical results. This enhanced background, especially notable at the 217.6- and 217.9-nm (2176- and 2179-Å) lines used for antimony detection, may be attributed to light scattering by organic materials not completely destroyed during the drying and ashing cycle of the AA determination. Destruction of the matrix by ashing of the samples prior to analysis significantly decreases the analytical background and eliminates leaching difficulties.
Sleeping Arrangements of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Victims in the District of Columbia—A Preliminary Report
Authors: Luke JL
Published: July 2015

Although instances of the sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) have been described as occurring under diverse circumstances of sleep, the impression has been fostered that the victim is almost invariably found dead in his crib (hence the term “crib” or “cot” death). However, information developed over the past decade in Tennessee [1] and elsewhere (13.1% of SIDS fatalities in Oklahoma investigated over a two-year period were found dead in their parents' beds) [2] and more recent data from the District of Columbia Medical Examiner's Office [3] have tended to dispel this notion.
Personal Identification of Human Remains: An Overview
Authors: Warren CP
Published: July 2015

Personal identification of human remains, as a science and as an art, occurs in a variety of sociocultural contexts. Unknown remains resulting from accidents and homicides occupy the attention of identification specialists in criminalistics, and unknowns resulting from military engagements and mass disasters are the focus of identification specialists in both military and civilian agencies. Each group of specialists has, within its respective identification agency, its own techniques and methods for establishing identity, and each group has its own criteria with which to verify identification. The purpose and functions of personal identification also vary within the context of the investigative agencies, but all identification specialists, regardless of their agency affiliation, are oriented toward establishing an individuality that can be validated by comparison with supporting social data.
NOMIS: A Computerized Information and Communications System for a Statewide Medicolegal Investigative System
Authors: Fullilove JP , Weston JT , Reddish CA
Published: July 2015

The New Mexico Office of the Medical Investigator was created by the New Mexico State Legislature in a series of statutes which became effective on 1 July 1973. The comprehensive nature of this legislation and its subsequent statewide implementation created a unique opportunity for the effective use of electronic data processing for augmenting the functions of the office. Accordingly, preliminary planning was begun early in 1975 with the employment of two part-time programmers and the placement of equipment orders. Preliminary system development and programming was accomplished before the delivery of the equipment in June, 1976.
A Review of Toxicology Annual Volume 2
Authors: Rejent TA
Published: July 2015

This text includes a broad selection of topics, ranging from the epidemiology of animal poisonings to the use of marijuana in the 1860s. Between these are included a potpourri of toxicologically related subjects of special interest to a wide variety of disciplines.
A Review of Science and Crime Detection
Authors: Cordova VF
Published: July 2015

The style and content of the book are written and directed towards the reader who possesses a maximum of a secondary educational school background and has no familarity with the forensic sciences. The author presents his material in a clear and lucid fashion, wherever possible using simple and easily understandable examples. The book is profusely documented with photographs and reproductions of laboratory data to an extent that far exceeds some of the more advanced contemporary texts of its kind.
A Review of Color Atlas of Tropical Medicine and Parasitology
Authors: Andujar JJ
Published: July 2015

This excellent color atlas is another in the series of more than two dozen color atlases produced mostly in England and printed in Holland. These books cover a wide variety of fields of medicine and invariably adhere strictly to the task indicated in their titles, namely to produce a color atlas. The present opus on tropical medicine and parasitology is no exception. It is written by two physicians from the faculty of Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine, one of the outstanding British schools in this field.
The Effect of Glass as an Intermediate Target on Bullets: Experimental Studies and Report of a Case
Authors: Stahl CJ , Jones SR , Johnson FB , Luke JL
Published: July 2015

It is well known that intermediate targets may influence the distribution of pellets in fatal injuries by shotguns [1–3] and that a variety of objects, including glass, window screens, and articles of clothing, may serve as intermediary targets for bullets, may cause ricochet of bullets, or may become secondary missiles [4,5]. Although methods are available for examination and comparison of glass fragments, recent textbooks do not consider the potential effect of glass as an intermediate target on the characteristics of the wound of entrance. The results of experimental ballistic studies with glass, as well as a medico-legal case, are discussed in this report.
Dissecting Coronary Artery Aneurysm: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Pisano RV , Taylor MB , Sopher IM
Published: July 2015

Dissecting aneurysm of a coronary artery is an unusual occurrence, with a review of the literature revealing only 32 cases. Because this process results in sudden and unexpected death, frequently in young individuals, such cases often fall within the jurisdiction of the medical examiner. This paper reports two cases of coronary artery dissection seen at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of West Virginia, during a recent six-week period. A review of the literature concerning this unusual entity is also presented.
Human Plague in New Mexico: Report of Three Autopsied Cases
Authors: Jones AM , Mann J , Braziel R
Published: July 2015

Plague is an ancient bacterial disease of rodents that occurs in man in sporadic and epidemic forms. The causative organism is the Gram-negative bacterium Yersinia pestis, which multiplies in the stomach of fleas (particularly the Oriental rat flea Xenopsylla cheopis) [1,2]. Microscopic examination of infected fleas reveals large masses of bacteria in their stomachs. The bacterial masses eventually block passage of the victim's blood and when blockage occurs, bacteria are regurgitated into the wound and passed in the feces of the flea. Fortunately, the rat flea prefers the rat as a host but, if the rat dies, the flea seeks a new warm-blooded host. The nearest warm-blooded animal may be man, and when man is infected the symptoms are those of many febrile diseases and include fever, malaise, tachycardia, headache, vomiting, lymphadenopathy, delirium, and shaking chills. The flea bite is rarely seen, and if it is present a papule or vesicle is identified which is usually pustular. Sixty to seventy-five percent of lymphadenopathy occurs in the inguinal areas because the majority of flea bites occur on the legs. Enlarged inguinal nodes were named buboes, but the use of this term has been expanded to include other lymph node groups as well. Plague occurs in three forms: bubonic, septicemic (bacteremic), and pneumonic. Bubonic plague is now the most common form seen in man and fever, malaise, and buboes are the usual symptoms. Proliferation of plague organisms produces enlargement of the lymph node and the organisms may escape into the circulation, causing septicemia (bacteremia). Organisms may be trapped in the lungs, resulting in secondary plague pneumonia. The pneumonic form can result in man-to-man infection by aspiration of infected exhaled droplets from a plague victim and this mode of transmission potentially can produce an epidemic (primary plague pneumonia) [3]. The last cases of primary plague pneumonia occurred in California in 1924 [4]. Unfortunately, pulmonary findings in plague pneumonia may be lacking until the final day when the victim coughs up copious bloody sputum. In bubonic plague, the disease can be transmitted from man to man by the human flea, Pulex irritans. If septicemia occurs, subcutaneous hemorrhages can occur which, if massive, impart a “black” color to the patient and therefore the term “Black Death” evolved.
A New Approach to Upper Cervical Injuries
Authors: Hooper AD
Published: July 2015

Routine autopsy techniques are standard, with a few minor variations, and give fully satisfactory results for most autopsies. However, there are occasional circumstances such as in the evaluation of upper cervical injuries in which the standard techniques give unsatisfactory results. Erratum to this paper appears in 24(4)
Determination at the Nanogram Range of Rilatinic Acid in Urine After Ion-Pair Extraction
Authors: Van Boven M , Daenens P
Published: July 2015

Methylphenidate (α-phenyl-2-piperidineacetic acid methyl ester), synthetized by Panizzon [1], is a central nervous system stimulant of the amphetamine series. It differs from many of the phenylisopropylamines in having moderate effects on the peripheral circulatory system. It is used in the management of hyperkinetic and perceptually handicapped children [2] where it is claimed to improve both behavior and learning ability [3]. It is not only a doping agent for sportsmen but also an increasing factor in the drug abuse problem. In many countries this drug has been submitted to narcotic regulations.
Correlates of Outcome Following Acute Glutethimide Overdosage
Authors: Greenblatt DJ , Allen MD , Harmatz JS , Noel BJ , Shader RI
Published: July 2015

Glutethimide was introduced as a hypnotic agent in the United States in the mid-1950s. Shortly thereafter it became evident that overdosage with glutethimide could readily produce serious and fatal intoxication [1–3]. Numerous subsequent studies demonstrate that the sleep-inducing efficacy of glutethimide is no greater than that of many other drugs, including some that are clearly safer [4–13]. Furthermore, glutethimide continues to be a popular agent of self-poisoning, with an associated high morbidity and mortality [11,13–23]. Despite the obvious hazards and disadvantages of glutethimide, it is still widely used in clinical practice. An estimated 2.7 million prescriptions for glutethimide were dispensed at American retail pharmacies in 1975.
Laser Detection of Latent Fingerprints—Treatment with Fluorescers
Authors: Menzel ER , Duff JM
Published: July 2015

In 1976 a method for the detection of latent fingerprints by their inherent luminescence using continuous-wave (CW) argon-ion laser excitation [1] was discovered at Xerox Research Centre of Canada, where the first detection by this method of an identified print from an actual criminal exhibit (a fingerprint on the sticky side of a piece of black electrical tape) was also achieved. Basically, the laser procedure involves illumination of the exhibit under scrutiny with the blue-green light from the argon-ion laser and photography of the resulting yellow-green fingerprint luminescence. The viewing and photography are carried out in a darkened room. A filter is used to block the laser light scattered from the exhibit to prevent eye damage and film exposure by the laser light. Spectroscopic and chromatographic features of fingerprint material indicate that riboflavin is one of several inherent luminescers in fingerprint residue and our findings suggest potential for fingerprint age determination [2].
Reconstruction of Fractured Glass by Laser Beam Interferometry
Authors: Thornton JI , Cashman PJ
Published: July 2015

The matching of fractured glass fragments has been extended by von Bremen [1] to include the intrinsic heterogeneities referred to in the glass industry as “ream” [2]. Von Bremen used a fiber optics source to project a shadowgraph of fractured glass onto a photographic film that was then developed. Although this is a powerful method for comparing ream marking, the technique suffers a disadvantage in that the ream cannot readily be seen with the naked eye in all samples. It is readily apparent in container glass, lamp bulb glass, and drawn window glass. In other types of glass including float glass, the photographic film must be developed before it is known whether an image of the heterogeneities of the glass has been adequately recorded.
The Characterization of Dyestuffs on Wool Fibers with Special Reference to Microspectrophotometry
Authors: Macrae R , Dudley RJ , Smalldon KW
Published: July 2015

Although synthetic fibers have achieved much greater importance in the textile industry over the years, wool still remains the fiber type most frequently encountered in Home Office forensic science laboratories.
A Stability Study of the Esterase D Isoenzymes
Authors: Jay BW-H , Philp WMS
Published: July 2015

Evidence of variations in human red cell esterase was first presented by Tashian [1–3]. With starch gel, borate buffer electrophoresis followed by azo-dye-coupled staining procedures, zones of esterase activity were classified as A1, A2, A3, B, and C. Population variants of these esterase enzymes have proven to be either exceedingly rare or nonexistent and consequently have no forensic application.
Drugs (Other than or in Addition to Ethyl Alcohol) and Driving Behavior: A Collaborative Study of the California Association of Toxicologists
Authors: Lundberg GD , White JM , Hoffman KI
Published: July 2015

The influence of the consumption of ethyl alcohol on motor vehicle driver behavior is well established [1,2]. Innumerable other psychoactive drugs are now used widely by the populations of developed countries. That these drugs are also used by motor vehicle drivers on occasion has been documented [3] and discussed [4]. The effects of these drugs alone, in combination, or with ethyl alcohol on driver behavior are not fully understood. Approaches that could clarify such effects include prospective experimentation with human volunteers in simulated driving situations, prospective experimental studies with human volunteers in actual driving situations, retrospective toxicological analyses of fatal automobile accident victims in mass statistical studies, reconstruction of fatal automobile accidents, and comparative study of individuals with specific, observed driving behavior in real-life situations who were subsequently determined to be with and without drugs.
Factors Influencing Criminal Behavior in Newark: A Local Study in Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Feldman HS , Jarmon RG
Published: July 2015

Numerous factors, environmental and others, have had an important influence on the scope and intensity of crime. To understand more fully the nature of crime in the state of New Jersey, the Office of the Attorney General recorded [1, pp. 11–28] a revised section entitled “Profiles of Incorporated Municipalities in New Jersey” in its Uniform Crime Reports of 1971. These profiles included the following factors: areas of population; density rates; population growth; urban, suburban, and rural characterizations; given land areas; and industrial populations. Even though these factors are out of police control, they can affect the crime rate, which can vary from town to town. It also is of interest that since the effects of these factors cannot be easily determined more aggressive research has not been conducted in attempts to decrease state and national crime rates. In New Jersey, during the calendar year 1971, a total of 224 709 crime index offenses were reported to state law enforcement agencies. This was a 14% increase in crime volume over 1970 and a 61% increase compared with the five-year period between 1967 and 1971. The crime index offenses referred to here represent the most common problems to law enforcement and the municipality. They include such violent crimes as atrocious assault, forcible rape, murder, and robbery, and such nonviolent crimes as auto theft, breaking and entering, and larceny of $50 and over in value.
Enuresis, Firesetting, and Cruelty to Animals: The Significance of Two Thirds of This Triad
Authors: Felthous AR , Bernard H
Published: July 2015

The familiar childhood behavioral triad of persistent enuresis, firesetting, and cruelty to animals has been suggested as a predictor of dangerously aggressive acts at a later age [1]. These studies, which support an association between these triadic elements and assaultive behaviors, involve only subjects who have already been identified as “dangerous” or “antisocial.” How then does the incidence of a partial or complete triad in an aggressive population compare with that of a nonaggressive population? What is the significance of a single element of the triad or of two out of three elements? Finally, is there a sex-related difference in the significance of a partial or complete triad?
A New Trace Metal Detection Reagent
Authors: Glass SW , Grais NJ
Published: July 2015

When a person handles a metallic object such as a firearm, metal traces are often transferred to the hands. The method of making this metallic pattern visible is called the trace metal detection technique (TMDT) [1].
A Review of Investigative Methods
Authors: Osterburg JW
Published: July 2015

The title of this work is somewhat misleading since it is intended to provide “a general introduction and basic guidance” for those “processing crime scenes without the assistance of highly skilled laboratory or other technical personnel” (p. ix). It is refreshing to read on the same page that “the purpose of evidence is not necessarily to convict the most likely suspect, but to determine the truth so that the innocent may go free and the guilty be as quickly and positively identified.” The content of the book is indicated by the titles of the chapters and appendixes: Chapter 1 Notes and Reports Chapter 2 Crime Scene Searches and Sketches Chapter 3 Collection of Evidence Chapter 4 Photography Chapter 5 Fingerprints Chapter 6 Firearms Evidence Chapter 7 Toolmark Evidence Chapter 8 Injuries and Death Chapter 9 Arsons and Bombings Chapter 10 Questioned Documents Appendix 1 Vocabulary Appendix 2 Course Outline—Practical Photography Training Appendix 3 Developing and Lifting Latent Fingerprints Appendix 4 Glossary of Sex Crimes
A Review of 1977 Year Book of Pathology and Clinical Pathology
Authors: Johnson RD , Sexton JS
Published: July 2015

Keeping abreast of current medical literature is rapidly becoming an impossible task. The >1977 Yearbook of Pathology and Clinical Pathology is one publisher's attempt to provide a source book of recent informative articles (in this instance through May 1976) to update the practicing pathologist's fund of current literature developments.
A Review of 1978 Year Book of Pathology and Clinical Pathology
Authors: Jones AM
Published: July 2015

Within this small, but extremely informative, volume are the well-written synopses of over 250 recent journal articles concerning new diagnostic and therapeutic procedures of pathological significance. The editors and associate editors selected excellent articles from May 1976 through May 1977 and divided the text into anatomical and clinical pathology sections. Practically every subspecialty area is covered, with the majority of articles devoted to anatomical pathology. The anatomical pathology section includes general, cellular, inflammation and infectious disease, neoplasia, immunopathology, forensic pathology, cardiovascular, hematopoietic and lymphatic system, respiratory, alimentary system, hepatobiliary, urinary tract, genital system, endocrine, muscular, skin and subcutaneous tissue, and nervous system topics. The clinical pathology section includes chemical pathology, microbiology, diagnostic immunology, blood banking, hematology, and lab data processing topics.
A Review of Suicide Research
Authors: Gold LH
Published: July 2015

It can be stated at the outset that this small volume of 179 pages reads very much like a textbook and just about everything you would want to know about suicide becomes available. It represents comprehensive studies by leaders in the field, and once the reader picks up this excellent work it becomes exceedingly difficult to put it down.
Forensic Pathology—The Hidden Specialty: A Survey of Forensic Pathology Training Available to Medical Students and Residents
Authors: Sexton JS , Hennigar GR
Published: July 2015

For years it has been a curious fact that very few doctors have gone into the subspecialty of forensic pathology. In February 1978, there were 11 087 pathologists and only 354 had taken the forensic boards. It has been estimated by various surveys that less than 200 pathologists practice forensic pathology full time [1].
Quantitative Determination of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Cadaver Blood
Authors: Rosenthal D , Brine D
Published: July 2015

A long-term program involving the quantitative identification of cannabinoids in biological fluids made it clear that there was a significant need for the development of an accurate and reliable assay procedure for the determination of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in blood samples obtained from autopsy. It is frequently of considerable concern to know whether a subject was under the influence of marijuana at the time of death, and since Δ9-THC is the major psychoactive agent present in marijuana, a definitive identification of Δ9-THC in blood from an autopsy sample presents direct and unquestionable evidence of the subject's use of this drug.
Determination of the Enantiomorphic Composition of Cocaine Using the Chiral Lanthanide Shift Reagent Europium Tris-d-Trifluoroacetyl-Camphorate
Authors: Kroll JA
Published: July 2015

The discovery of lanthanide shift reagents [1] and the examination of their influence on the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra of various Lewis bases [2] have established their importance in structural determination for organic chemistry. More recently, chiral lanthanide tris-d-3-acyl-camphorates have been applied to the direct determination of enantiomorphic compositions [>3–6].
Incidence of Cocaine Metabolites in Urine Specimens from Medical Examiners' Cases
Authors: Harris SC , Hamilton HE , Wallace JE
Published: July 2015

In their recent report on the toxicology and epidemiology of cocaine, Finkle and McCloskey summarized data from 27 medical examiners' offices [1]. Methods used by the contributing laboratories varied widely in sensitivity and specificity and included thin-layer chromatography, gas-liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry, spectrophotometry, radioimmunoassay, and enzyme-linked immunoassay. The sensitivity range generally reported by participating laboratories was 1 to 2 μg/ml cocaine. Sixteen laboratories relied on detecting only parent cocaine, while eleven laboratories also analyzed for benzoylecgonine, the principal cocaine metabolite.
Racial Classifications Based on Blood Group Protein Systems
Authors: Selvin S , Black DM , Grunbaum BW , Pace N
Published: July 2015

A large series of blood group protein systems has been analyzed as part of a project funded by the California Office of Criminal Justice Planning. These blood group protein systems potentially form the basis for establishing useful probabilities associated with the occurrence of particular sets of phenotypes. Two facts must be established concerning these systems in order to calculate most types of probabilities. First, the proportion of each phenotype must be accurately estimated for the population of interest. Second, statistical independence must be established among all systems considered.
Alteration of Electrophoretic Mobility of Hemoglobin in Bloodstains
Authors: Barnard PA , Grunbaum BW
Published: July 2015

Phenotyping of hemoglobin variants from whole blood and dried bloodstains is an important procedure for the forensic scientist. Although electrophoretic techniques for hemoglobin phenotyping have been described [1–5], there has been to our knowledge no published report of alterations in the electrophoretic mobility of hemoglobin in dried bloodstains. In the present study, observations were made on changes after electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes in the mobility of hemoglobin from bloodstains 1 to 28 days old. A procedure has been worked out to prevent these changes which may cause errors in the phenotyping of hemoglobin variants.
Particle Analysis for the Detection of Gunshot Residue. I: Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Characterization of Hand Deposits from Firing
Authors: Wolten GM , Nesbitt RS , Calloway AR , Loper GL , Jones PF
Published: July 2015

Several methods of bulk elemental analysis, such as fiameless atomic absorption, flame emission spectroscopy, neutron activation analysis, and photoluminescence spectroscopy, can reliably and quantitatively determine the amounts of antimony and barium (antimony and lead in the case of photoluminescence) removed from the hand. The information thus furnished, however, in most cases is not sufficient to constitute presumptive evidence of the presence of gunshot residue. Many analyses are inconclusive because the amounts of antimony and barium (lead) are less than certain “thresholds” considered necessary because these elements are not unique to gunshot residue. Firings from .22 caliber weapons, unless the cartridge is known to be a Federal brand, are not usually analyzed because domestic rimfire primers, except Federal, do not contain antimony. Understandably, there has been great interest in alternative analysis methods capable of furnishing additional information of potentially higher specificity for gunshot residue.
Separation of Standard Opiates and Their Analysis in Pharmaceutical and Illicit Preparations by Paired-Ion Reverse-Phase High-Pressure Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Soni SK , Dugar SM
Published: July 2015

There are many methods of analysis at the disposal of a forensic scientist for the routine analysis of controlled drug substances. However, the main objective has always been to introduce new, versatile techniques with high efficiency, selectivity, and excellent precision.
Age Estimations from Diaphyseal Lengths: Two Months to Twelve Years
Authors: Hoffman JM
Published: July 2015

Accurate identification of individuals by skeletal structures requires estimations of age, sex, race, and stature plus the presence or absence of such distinguishing features as healed or healing fractures (or other pathologies), restorative or reparative dental work, skeletal anomalies, and others. Correct identification, within limits, is maximized when the investigator has the remains of a complete adult skeleton. As skeletal parts diminish in number and as the age of the individual decreases, accuracy in identification also decreases. When found in combination, that is, with fragmentary skeletons of subadults, these features make for the least desirable situation if accurate individual identification is to be made or even attempted. Kerley [1] has recently reminded us of the inherent difficulties of determining sex, race, and stature in subadults even when complete remains are available. As the remains become more fragmentary these parameters become most difficult to evaluate.
Acute Epiglottitis (Supraglottitis)
Authors: Rivers RL
Published: July 2015

Acute inflammation and edema of the epiglottis is a catastrophic illness, often leading to a sudden and unexpected asphyxia. Many victims die too quickly for medical attention or receive improper medical assistance. This report presents seven cases of fatal epiglottitis from a coroner's autopsy service (Table 1). None of the victims had been hospitalized. Six victims had sought medical assistance. The cases stress the fulminant course and the difficult diagnosis of acute epiglottitis. Accurate records on the incidence of acute epiglottitis may be supplemented by coroner-medical examiners' investigations. Failure to examine the epiglottis during the postmortem examination may disguise the true incidence of this disease.
Psychiatric Observations and Interpretations of Bite Mark Evidence in Multiple Murders
Authors: Morrison HL
Published: July 2015

There are many reports in the literature of the study of murder and murderers from multiple viewpoints [1–13]. Few of these reports have been based on extensive periods of evaluation. This current paper is a partial report of the study of a man who can be termed a nonspecific mass murderer. His case is one in a series of the study of male mass murderers currently undergoing extensive investigation from multiple viewpoints. All of these cases have in common several elements and they compose a very selective subpopulation of those who murder. All persons selected for study have committed a minimum of 10 and as many as 30 murders over a period of more than five years. Most of the victims were not well known to the murderer. The victims were most often females, ranging in age from ten weeks to approximately 35 years of age. The mode of murder was violent, sexual, and sadistic, often including multiple behaviors such as strangulation, stabbing, and mutilation as well as other destructive actions. The personalities of these men are the focus of study with a major focus on the psychiatric evaluation of developmental processes. The evaluations included psychologic, genetic, and physiologic measures as well as any other areas of exploration deemed to be necessary.
A Review of Autopsy—The Memoirs of Milton Helpern
Authors: Gross EM
Published: July 2015

The Scalpel of Scotland Yard, Mostly Murder, Where Death Delights, and now Autopsy are books that will readily lure any medical student into being a forensic pathologist.
Laser Detection of Latent Fingerprints—Treatment with Phosphorescers
Authors: Menzel ER
Published: July 2015

Previous articles in this journal [1,2] have described the detection of latent fingerprints by argon-ion laser. Basically, the procedure involves illumination of the exhibit under scrutiny with the light from a continuous-wave argon-ion laser followed by observation and photography of the luminescence from the latent print. The luminescence can be inherent fingerprint luminescence, fluorescence arising from treatment of the print with fluorescers (fluorescent dusting powders or fluorescent dyes) [1–3], or fluorescence resulting from chemical treatment of latent prints. Such chemicals (fluorescamine, o-phthalaldehyde, p-dimethylaminocinnamaldehyde) react with fingerprint material in a manner analogous to ninhydrin to form fluorescent reaction products [2]. Thus, laser detection of latent prints takes on a wide range of applicability.
Case Analysis of Fingerprint Detection by Laser
Authors: Dalrymple BE
Published: July 2015

Laser detection of fingerprints, as described in an earlier paper [1], entails exposure of crime scene exhibits to laser light and photography (or direct viewing) of any fingerprints thereby induced. The Ontario Provincial Police Force has initiated laser examination of exhibits for fingerprints to evaluate the effectiveness of this technique and to obtain additional data that might further exploit the luminescence of fingerprints on materials under examination. Glass, metal, wood, cloth, stone, and plastic exhibits were examined for fingerprints under laser light. Many of these surfaces yielded localized luminescence that may or may not have been the result of fingerprint deposit.
Moving Towards Professionalization of Latent Print Examiners
Authors: Cowger JF
Published: July 2015

Latent print comparison is the oldest and most trusted practice within the forensic sciences. Age has not, however, imbued it with nearly the professional stature that should be accorded an art or science that has contributed so much to law enforcement and criminal justice. Many of the problems that stand in the way of professionalization for latent print examiners can be addressed only with long-term solutions. There are, however, some things that latent print examiners should do, as individuals, that will help to accelerate their recognition as forensic scientists, just as firearms examiners, handwriting examiners, and even general criminalists are so recognized.
Determining Sequence of Fire in Gunshot Wounds: Two Case Reports
Authors: Sexton JS , Hennigar GR
Published: July 2015

There are many facts that can usually be learned about a gunshot wound during a forensic autopsy. These include the range of fire (contact, near, or distant range), the path through which the bullet entered the body, what caliber bullet or bullets were used (and which was probably the fatal shot), and, finally, specifically, what gun fired the fatal shot if the bullet removed at autopsy is found to match a suspected weapon. Sometimes, when a defective weapon has been used, the bullet holes and the bullet will show that the firearm was defective. All of these facts are very helpful in understanding the circumstances surrounding a death.
Trace Amounts of Lead and Bromine in Soot Studied by X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy
Authors: Hagström AL
Published: July 2015

Forensic science laboratories are sometimes confronted with the question of whether or not a flammable solvent has been used to initiate a fire. One of the most efficient accelerants is gasoline. Some gasoline for use in motor vehicles contains lead and bromine (tetraethyl lead, tetramethyl lead, and ethylene dibromide) as additives amounting to about 0.4 g/litre. The lead alkyls are added to improve the resistance against knocking, whereas ethylene dibromide is used to expel the lead from the cylinder walls.
Spot Tests: A Color Chart Reference for Forensic Chemists
Authors: Johns SH , Wist AA , Najam AR
Published: July 2015

Spot tests, the most common of preliminary screening tests, have been of long-standing use in forensic analysis. With the advent of technological instrumentation, the importance of this utilitarian, albeit basic, test procedure has diminished. In the early development of currently accepted laboratory technique, the spot test (also referred to as the color test) was often employed as a conclusive method for substance identification. Advanced technology has demonstrated that color tests alone indicate nothing but the possible presence or absence of a particular molecular grouping. Consequently, the color test must be considered inconclusive for purposes of positive identification. Thus the main purpose of the spot test is to narrow the list of substances possibly present in any given unknown.
Application of the Le Rosen Test to Paint Analysis
Authors: Linde HG , Stone RP
Published: July 2015

Reliable, discriminating spot tests can be important in rapidly determining differences involving paint sample comparisons. Reagents offering high color intensity with a broadranged spectrum obviously produce the best basis for sample analysis. The Le Rosen reaction [1, pp. 137–140] is such a test, offering definitive discrimination of many aromatic compounds. Application of this test to small paint samples offers a clearer differentiation than sulfuric acid [2] and a wider applicability than diphenylamine-type reagents, both accepted color-solubility tests for paint classifications.
Application of the Tri-Ess Mini Metal Detector to Forensic Autopsies (or, How to Find the Elusive Projectile)
Authors: Wetli CV
Published: July 2015

Locating and recovering projectiles and projectile fragments from cadavers can sometimes be difficult, frustrating, and time-consuming. Precisely locating a projectile by X-ray is usually not accomplished because of the difficulty in obtaining accurate oblique and lateral projections. The forensic pathologist is thus occasionally faced with a situation where the general location of a projectile is known but the track is lost or becomes inapparent during the course of dissection. Further X-rays are generally useless, and one must then embark on a lengthy and frequently mutilating dissection to locate and retrieve the projectile. In such autopsy situations, we have found the Tri-ess metal detector to be of definite help. This instrument was initially chosen because of its purported sensitivity, small size, and low cost.
A Review of Parikh's Simplified Text Book of Medical Jurisprudence and Toxicology
Authors: Eckert WG
Published: July 2015

This work should be of interest to anyone who is a student of comparative forensic medicine and pathology as it offers a rather complete picture of the activities and problems found in India as a whole and in Bombay in particular.
A Review of Detective Work:A Study of Criminal Investigations
Authors: Osterburg JW
Published: July 2015

The author, a sociologist, spent a year as a participant-observer studying detectives at work in a county sheriff's office. The result is the best writing about criminal investigation this reviewer has read. It stands in direct and favorable contrast to the regrettable study released in 1975 by the Rand Corporation of “The Criminal Investigation Process.” Sanders' work, a major contribution to the literature, is a typical piece of good academic (yet practical) research—the kind that seldom seems to be supported by the federal government. On the other hand, the half-million dollar funding of the Rand Study by the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration resulted in a product that charitably can be described as less than memorable.
A Review of Medicolegal Investigation of the President John F. Kennedy Murder
Authors: Rupp JC
Published: July 2015

This book presents a rehash of the same old material we have heard and read over and over again for the past 15 years. The book suffers from two glaring deficiencies. First, the author is a forensic biologist, not a forensic pathologist, and second, the author has taken his material almost exclusively from the Warren Commission Report because he had no access to any of the material contained in the National Archives.
A Review of Toxic Drugs and Chemicals in Man, Volume II
Authors: Standefer J
Published: July 2015

The objective of the two-volume series Disposition of Toxic Drugs and Chemicals in Man is to provide reference information on the pharmacokinetics and metabolism of drugs commonly encountered in forensic and clinical practice as well as to provide useful interpretative and diagnostic information for the toxicologist. Volume I provides this information on commonly encountered centrally acting drugs while Volume II provides information on peripherally acting drugs and toxins not commonly requested in toxicology laboratories. Because these drugs are not frequently encountered, Volume II is a valuable reference source. For example, the pharmacokinetics, toxicity, and analysis of pancuronium is well described and in a brief study one can adequately review its pharmacology. Other peripheral toxins that are well referenced include anions (such as cyanide and nitrate), metals (such as arsenic and thallium), pesticides (such as aldrin, lindane, and paraquat), and volatiles (such as ethylene glycol and fluorocarbons). The data for each toxin include pharmacokinetics, metabolism, postmortem concentrations, and analytical approaches. while this information is provided in a brief format, adequate references are included. A very useful addition to Volume II is an appendix that contains a list of the therapeutic and toxic concentrations of common drugs in a format similar to that published by Baselt et al in Clinical Chemistry, Vol. 21, 1975, pp. 44–62. This list relates drug dose to blood and tissue concentrations and provides the clinical conditions associated with blood concentrations.
Suicide by Intravenous Injection of a Veterinary Euthanasia Agent: Report of a Case and Toxicologic Studies
Authors: Clark MA , Jones JW
Published: July 2015

Suicide by the intravenous self-administration of an overdose of therapeutic drugs has been rarely reported in the literature. All such cases to date have involved the use of short-acting barbiturates normally used in the induction of anesthesia; the victims have been either medical or paramedical personnel [1–3]. To our knowledge, the present case represents the first report of the suicidal intravenous self-administration of a veterinary euthanasia agent.