bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Structural Identification of a Methyl Analog of Methaqualone via 2-Dimensional NMR Techniques
Authors: Angelos SA , Lankin DC , Meyers JA , Raney JK
Published: August 2015

A submission to the Drug Enforcement Administration North Central Laboratory of a substance believed to be a structural analog of methaqualone hydrochloride precipitated an interest in being able to obtain a rapid and positive identification of such compounds. Both mass spectrometry and proton NMR spectroscopy (1-dimensional) provided evidence to suggest that the structural analog possessed a second methyl group in the molecule, relative to methaqualone, and that the methyl group was attached to the existing methylsubstituted phenyl ring. By application of proton 2-dimensional (2-D) NMR techniques, specifically the homonuclear shift correlation spectroscopy (COSY) and 2-D NOE (NOESY), the precise location of the methyl group in this unknown methaqualone analog was established and shown to have the structure 2.
A Video Darkroom for the Document Examiner
Authors: Angstrom N , Bergstedt H , Warensjoe L
Published: August 2015

A darkroom with a highly integrated videosystem was built this spring for the document department of the National Laboratory of Forensic Science. The integration of the equipment using video technique makes it very useful and easily operated. The layout and the equipment is described.
Poisonings Associated with Cyanide in Over the Counter Cold Medication in Washington State, 1991
Authors: Logan B , Howard J , Kiesel EL
Published: August 2015

In March 1991, four cyanide poisonings were identified in Washington State. Three of these, one nonfatal and two fatal, were directly linked to the consumption of capsules of Sudafed-12 hour cold relief capsules. This article presents the details of these cases including the chronology, causes of death, autopsy and toxicological findings. The fourth case, also fatal, occurred after extensive publicity surrounding the poisonings, and was determined to be a copy-cat case intended to mimic the consumption of tainted Sudafed. The investigation and distinguishing features of this case are also discussed. A further cyanide poisoning occurred in Canada shortly after these incidents and had similar features to the copy-cat case.
Fatality Due to Recreational Use of Chlorodifluoromethane and Chloropentafluoroethane
Authors: Fitzgerald RL , Fishel CE , Bush LLE
Published: August 2015

Reports on fatalities of chlorofluorocarbons usually involve chlorotrifluoroethane, trichlorofluoromethane, dichlorodifluoromethane or chlorodifluoromethane, where analysis was done using packed column gas chromatography. In this case a death was caused by an azeotropic mixture of chlorodifluoromethane and chloropentafluoroethane, a combination that has not previously been reported in the forensic literature. This report details the analysis using mass selective detection employing capillary gas chromatography columns currently used in many toxicology laboratories.

Postmortem toxicology revealed blood concentrations of chlorodifluoromethane and chloropentafluoroethane of 71 mg/L and 0.30 mg/L, respectively. Brain, liver, and lung concentrations of chlorodifluoromethane were (mg/kg) 2.8, 4.4, and 1.6, respectively. Brain, liver, and lung concentrations of chloropentafluoroethane were (mg/kg) 0.80, 0.80, and 0.11, respectively. The victim's blood contained 5.5 mg/L caffeine. Lidocaine, used in resuscitation attempts, was also present in the victim's blood. No other alkali-extractable drugs or volatile alcohols were detected in the victim's blood. The cause of death was acute respiratory arrest due to chlorofluorocarbon inhalation.
The Meaning of an Accessory Projectile
Authors: Smith OC , Berryman HE , Symes SA
Published: August 2015

A previously expended pistol casing was removed from a gunshot wound after an apparent accidental shooting. Examination of this foreign body indicated it had ridden the bore ahead of the bullet. Further investigation disclosed this as a deliberate but ignorant means to load an already loaded weapon. The assailants then fired at a passerby and killed him. Disclosure of the foreign body by X-ray, recovery and examination at autopsy were used to corroborate the circumstances and allowed charges of criminally negligent homicide to be placed.
Cerebral Intraventricular Lipoma and Sudden Death
Authors: Zappi E , Zappi M , Breithaupt M , Zugibe FT
Published: August 2015

A lipoma in the left lateral cerebral ventricle of a 73-year-old male is reported. This rather infrequently occurring lesion was an incidental finding in the patient's postmortem examination and probably accounted for the acute hydrocephalus that lead to his sudden death.
Review of Advances in Fingerprint Technology
Authors: Cantu AA
Published: August 2015

This book presents a history and status of latent fingerprint development, enhancement, identification, storage and retrieval, and testimony. As evidenced in the book, the intended readers are not only fingerprint examiners (users) and legal experts (attorneys), but also chemists, physicists, biologists, information scientists, and image scientists and engineers. This illustrates the multidisciplinary nature of this expanding field. Some of the contributing authors to the ten chapters are the founders of the advanced technology currently being used.
A Computer Interfaced Time-Resolved Luminescence Imaging System
Authors: Murdock RH , Menzel ER
Published: August 2015

Time-resolved luminescence imaging using a computer-interfaced gateable digital camera is shown to be useful for laser fingerprint development on strongly luminescent substrates. The system design is optimized for rare earth fingerprint treatment chemistry. System specifications are detailed and operation is discussed. Other potential applications include DNA typing and bioassay.
A Novel Approach to Fourier Spectral Enhancement of Laser-Luminescent Fingerprint Images
Authors: Kaymaz E , Mitra S
Published: August 2015

The present work reports an efficient adaptive Fourier transform domain filter for enhancement of laser-luminescent fingerprints. The transform domain filter involves selective amplification of the spectral band containing the highest energy, and subsequent use of a band-pass filter. The resulting enhanced image is almost noise-free, and shows prominent features in the fingerprints that cannot be extracted by other conventional enhancement techniques.
Mitochondrial DNA Sequence Analysis of Human Skeletal Remains: Identification of Remains from the Vietnam War
Authors: Holland MM , Fisher DL , Mitchell LG , Rodriquez WC , Canik JJ , Merril CR , Weedn VW
Published: August 2015

Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) sequence analysis of the control region of the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) genome was used to identify human skeletal remains returned to the United States government by the Vietnamese government in 1984. The postmortem interval was thought to be 24 years at the time of testing, and the remains presumed to be an American service member. DNA typing methods using nuclear genomic DNA, HLA-DQ alpha [1] and the variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) locus D1S80 [2], were unsuccessful using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) [3]. Amplification of a portion of the mtDNA control region was performed, and the resulting PCR product subjected to DNA sequence analysis. The DNA sequence generated from the skeletal remains was identical to the maternal reference sequence, as well as the sequence generated from two siblings (sisters). The sequence was unique when compared to more than 650 DNA sequences found both in the literature and provided by personal communications. The individual sequence polymorphisms were present in only 23 of the more than 1300 nucleotide positions analyzed. These results support the observation [4] that in cases where conventional DNA typing is unavailable, mtDNA sequencing can be used for human remains identification.
Genetic Typing of HLA Class II Genes in Swedish Populations: Application to Forensic Analysis
Authors: Allen M , Saldeen T , Pettersson U , Gyllensten U
Published: August 2015

In an attempt to determine the value of DNA based typing of HLA class II loci to forensic analysis, allele and genotype frequencies at DQA1, DQB1, DPB1, and DRB1 were determined in samples from two Swedish populations using hybridization with sequence specific oligonucleotides to PCR amplified DNA. Significant allele frequency differences were observed at the DQB1 and DRB1 loci between the two populations, as well as between one of the Swedish and a Norwegian population. The average heterozygosity varies between 0.74 to 0.91 and the power of discrimination between 0.90 to 0.98, with the highest values obtained for the DRB1 locus. The probability of genotype identity by chance differs on average 2% between the populations. When applied to a paternity case with one parent deceased and a criminal case, typing of class II loci proved in both cases informative. Analyses of DR and DQ genes does not increase the power of discrimination, due to strong linkage, but offers through the reconstruction of putative haplotypes an internal control for the consistency of the typing results at several loci. Typing of the DRB1 and DPB1 loci was found to result in an approximate combined average probability of genotype identity by chance of one in a thousand.
Collection Efficiency of Gunshot Residue (GSR) Particles from Hair and Hands Using Double-Side Adhesive Tape
Authors: Zeichner A , Levin N
Published: August 2015

Experiments were carried out to sample GSR particles (GSRs) from hair using double-side adhesive coated aluminum stubs (the tape-lift method). Although it was claimed in the literature that double-side adhesive tape is not suitable for sampling GSRs from hair, we have not encountered problems with this method. In laboratory experiments it was possible to find GSRs even 24 h after shooting if the hair had not been washed. No significant difference in collection efficiency was found between this technique and the more complicated method of swabbing the hair using a comb with a solvent-damped cloth (the swabbing-and-comb method). It was found that 200 to 300 dabbings are necessary to achieve maximum collection efficiency from hair with the double-side adhesive. As assessed subjectively, it was noted that stickiness is lost after about 100 dabbings. This method has been used in casework in Israel for about a year and a half and, in some cases, GSRs were found in samples from hair but not in samples from hands. We have also studied collection efficiency from hands of the double-side adhesive. It was found that 50 to 100 dabbings are necessary to achieve maximum collection efficiency, while stickiness appeared lost after about 20 to 30 dabbings. No substantial danger of skin debris concealing GSRs was observed.
Range of Fire Estimates from Shotgun Pellet Patterns: The Effect of Shell and Barrel Temperature
Authors: Horvath F , Gardner K , Siegel J
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of range-of-fire estimates in shotgun pellet patterns at fixed intervals. It was also of interest to investigate the effect of barrel and shell temperature changes on the diameter of pellet patterns. One hundred shots were fired from a .12 gauge shotgun though a series of 5 in-line paper targets positioned at 5-foot intervals between 15 and 35 feet from the muzzle. A series of confidence intervals was calculated to determine the error in range-of-fire estimates. Statistical analysis of the data revealed that shell but not barrel temperature significantly reduced pattern diameter.
Effects of Human Decomposition on Bullet Striations
Authors: Smith OC , Jantz L , Berryman HE , Symes SA
Published: August 2015

Five different types of bullets, representing the major materials used in centerfirc handgun and rifle ammunition, were inserted into the cranial, chest and abdominal cavities, muscle and adipose tissues of a fresh cadaver. The bullets were retrieved after the body was 90% decomposed. Observation and comparison of before and after photographs let each bullet serve as its own control. Results indicate the reactivity of bullet materials and the body region are significant factors affecting the corrosion process and may obscure rifling striations.
Acute Benzene Poisoning: A Report of Three Fatalities
Authors: Avis SP , Hutton CJ
Published: August 2015

The toxicity of benzene is well established, particularly its chronic effects on the hematopoietic system and its role as a carcinogen. Acute effects are known but less well documented. This case report describes three cases of acute benzene poisoning resulting from an industrial accident aboard a chemical cargo ship. Complete autopsies were performed on all three victims, who showed evidence of cutaneous, respiratory and cerebral injury. In addition, body fluids, brain, body fat, liver and lung were analyzed for benzene, levels of which were consistent with the lipid soluble nature of benzene, although body fat showed better correlation with blood levels than brain, liver or bile.
Critical Evaluation of Postmortem Changes in Human Autopsy Cisternal Fluid. Enzymes, Electrolytes, Acid-Base Balance, Glucose and Glycolysis, Free Amino Acids and Ammonia. Correlation to Total Brain Ischemia
Authors: Kärkelä JT
Published: August 2015

By studying early postmortem changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) it is possible to draw conclusions as to premortem focal brain cell injury and terminal brain ischemia. Cisternal fluid (CF) from 40 different adult cadavers with no known neurological disorder was analyzed and compared with known in vivo values. They were divided into four groups (n = 10 in each group), CF samples taken 2, 4, 10, and 24 h after death. The enzyme activity of CK and CK-BB (EC 2.7.3.2) increased linearly and statistically significantly 4–24 h postmortem (P < 0.001) the 2 h values being already 10 to 20 times higher than in vivo, LD and its isoenzymes 1 to 3 (EC 1.1.1.27) distinctly 10 to 24 h after death. Glucose and pyruvate concentrations in the CF declined, as did Na+ and Cl−. Lactate and K+ increased over time. The earliest statistically significant changes between different timepoints were seen in lactate, pyruvate and K+ concentrations. The GABA concentration was already more than 170 times at 2 h postmortem, and glutamate more than 20 times higher than in vivo. The concentrations of alanine, glycine, lysine, histidine, isoleucine, phenylalanine, and tyrosine were 2 to 3 times higher at 2 h postmortem than during life. The concentrations of all amino acids and ammonia increased linearly and statistically significantly (P < 0.001) in the CF 4 to 24 h postmortem.
Isolated Myocardial Fibrosis as a Cause of Sudden Cardiac Death and Its Possible Relation to Myocarditis
Authors: Lecomte D , Fornes P , Fouret P , Nicolas G
Published: August 2015

In performing medicolegal autopsies on sudden deaths, there occur a number of cases in which no cause of death can be found. In particular, no evidence of macroscopic cardiac abnormalities can be observed. However, extensive histological screening may reveal isolated areas of myocardial fibrosis. The five cases presented discuss the etiology of this fibrosis and its possible relation to myocarditis. The cases involve white women between the ages of 19 and 25 with no previous medical history. The weight of the heart in all five cases was normal. Macroscopic evidence of fibrosis was visible in four out of five cases. No other macroscopic abnormalities were observed. Histologically, there was evidence of scarring or interstitial fibrosis in all five cases. In four of the cases. additional screening permitted the observation of dispersed inflammatory foci consisting of lymphocytes, plasmocytes and macrophages. Two of the cases demonstrated eosinophil and neutrophil agregates in the center of necrotic foci. No evidence of vascular inflammatory phenomena was observed in any of the five cases. According to the Dallas criteria, three of the five cases fulfill the requirements for myocarditis and one of the five cases for borderline myocarditis. The Dallas criteria, however, do not take into consideration the possible association between inflammation and myocardial fibrosis since many of the reported series of myocarditis have been from hospital autopsies or endomyocardial biopsies and have not taken into account sudden death from fibrotic sequelae of myocarditis. The following 5 cases demonstrate that: 1) to demonstrate inflammatory foci, extensive sampling (>10) is required, due to their sparse distribution; 2) inflammatory foci may be associated with myocardial fibrosis (Cases 1, 2, 3 and 5), and additionally, fibrosis may be the only evidence of a previous inflammatory process (Case 4). This fibrosis provides a predisposition to electric instability, re-entry circuits and fatal arrythmias. Such cases are not only of forensic interest, but may have far reaching scientific implications. The origin of this myocarditis, whether viral or autoimmune, remains to be elucidated.
Forensic Autopsies in Italy
Authors: Castiglione AG , Lomi A
Published: August 2015

In Italy, forensic autopsies are performed under one of two different statutes. Judicial autopsies are requested by the prosecutor or by the court; and nonjudicial forensic autopsies are done under a special statute whenever a proper death certificate was not filed by a treating physician.

Judicial autopsies are performed by doctors chosen from a special list, after a basic check on their training and competence, on a case-by-case basis. A fee of some $350 is paid, by the Ministry of Justice, to the doctor for each case. As we have had an adversarial trial system, since 1989, we also have “adversarial autopsies” and the prosecutor, the defendant and the victim's next of kin each can appoint a forensic pathologist as a consultant to stand in at the autopsy and discuss the case. These forensic pathologists will testify in court as expert witnesses

Nonjudicial autopsies, which are regulated by the National Health Service, are usually only performed by forensic pathologists in large urban areas. Elsewhere they are often omitted for lack of qualified physicians.

In this article, we discuss some of the practical and legal problems arising from both the new Italian criminal procedure and the National Health Service Regulation, stressing the need to study different systems, including the medical examiner system, in order to improve the quality of forensic medical investigations.
Aspartic Acid Racemization in Intervertebral Discs as an Aid to Postmortem Estimation of Age at Death
Authors: Ritz S , Schütz H-W
Published: August 2015

We investigated whether measurement of aspartic acid racemization in intervertebral discs (IVD) could be used in the postmortem estimation of age at death. The extent of aspartic acid racemization in IVD tissues was found to increase with age. The rate of racemization turned out to be much higher in the nucleus pulposus than in the annulus fibrosus. The relation between age and the D-aspartic acid content in the anterior peripheral annulus fibrosus of IVD was close enough to allow postmortem estimation of age at death based on the extent of aspartic acid racemization in this tissue.
Representative Sampling of “Street” Drug Exhibits
Authors: Colón M , Rodríguez G , Díaz RO
Published: August 2015

The value of a scientific analysis and the significance of the results are influenced by the degree to which the sample analyzed reflects the composition of the material or population under study. An appropriate methodology will result in representative sampling.

Formulae for representative sampling protocols were evaluated, and an optimal formula to be used in a sampling plan for “street” drug exhibits with a large number of units was selected. The selected formula was applied to choose a number of sample units for routine chemical analysis of controlled substances, with the analytical result considered to be representative of the entire lot of powdered drug units in the exhibit.

The results obtained during the research demonstrate that adoption of the formula n = 20 + 10%(N − 20) [where n = sample size, N = total population (N ⩾ 20)] can be used for selection of an appropriate representative sample from powdered street-drug exhibits. This sampling procedure results in forensic analyses of controlled substances which are supportable to a reasonable scientific certainty, and which are obtained in an efficient manner.
Incidence of Psychoactive Cannabinoids in Drivers Killed in Motor Vehicle Accidents
Authors: Gerostamoulos J , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

A high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) assay was developed for the psychoactive cannabinoids Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and 11-Hydroxy-THC (11-OH-THC) using electrochemical detection (ECD). A C8 bonded column was used and the mobile phase consisted of acetonitrile, methanol and 0.01 M sulphuric acid at a flow rate of 1.5 mL/min. The detection limits for both THC and 11-OH-THC were 1.0 ng/mL. Preliminary screening of 193 drivers using an enzyme-multiplied immunoassay technique (EMIT) showed 21 tested positive on either blood, urine or both. Of these subjects 13 were confirmed as positive by the HPLC/ECD method in blood. Blood concentrations for THC ranged from 1.4 ng/mL up to 20 ng/mL and for 11-OH-THC 2.5 ng/mL up to 85 ng/mL.
Opiate Concentrations in Human Head, Axillary, and Public Hair
Authors: Kintz P , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

The concentrations of morphine and codeine were investigated in hair from the head, axillary and public regions obtained from 12 fatal heroin cases. Hair preparation involves a decontamination procedure in dichloromethane at 37°C for 15 min, solubilization in sodium hydroxyde at 100°C for 5 min, neutralization with hydrochloric acid and centrifugation. After extraction in chloroform-isopropanol-n-heptane (50:17:33; v/v) at pH 9.2, drugs were derivatized with BSTFA + 1% TMCS and separated on a 12-m BP-5 capillary column. Quantification was done by GC/MS using selected ion monitoring. The highest morphine concentrations were found in public hair (0.80 to 41.34 ng/mg), followed by hair of the head (0.62 to 27.10 ng/mg), and axillary hair (0.40 to 24.20 ng/mg). Codeine was also detected in all samples, and the codeine-to-morphine ratios ranged from 0.069 to 0.273. The differences observed in drug concentration in the 3 types of hair are discussed in the light of the existing literature.
Interpretation of Low Postmortem Concentrations of Ethanol
Authors: Levine B , Smith ML , Smialek JE , Caplan YH
Published: August 2015

The interpretation of postmortem blood ethanol concentrations (BAC). especially those less than 0.05 g/dL can be complicated by postmortem ethanol formation. One method used by the toxicologist to respond to this possibility is to analyze multiple specimens for ethanol. Two useful specimens to analyze are vitreous humor and urine, because they are less susceptible to the putrefaction process. A negative vitreous humor and/or urine ethanol would suggest that the measured ethanol resulted from postmortem formation. Data were collected from the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland and the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology on blood specimens with ethanol concentrations less than 0.05 g/dL to develop a reasonable threshold for interpretation in the absence of other specimens. A total of 381 cases with a BAC between 0.01 and 0.04 g/dL were studied over a 2 year period. Urine and vitreous humor specimens were tested where available. At a BAC of 0.01 g/dL, 54% of the cases were associated with a positive vitreous humor and/or urine ethanol concentration. This percentage increased to 63% when BAC equals 0.02 g/dL. Seventy-three percent and 92% of the cases had a positive alternate specimen if the BAC was 0.03 g/dL and 0.04 g/dL, respectively. In addition, 90% of the cases where both vitreous humor and urine were analyzed showed consistent results, that is both specimens were positive or negative. This suggests that in the absence of additional information, a BAC of 0.04 g/dL or higher probably resulted from ethanol consumption.
Solid Phase Extraction of Morphine from Whole Blood by Means of Bond Elut Certify Columns
Authors: Chen X-H , Hommerson ALC , Zweipfenning PGM , Franke J-P , Harmen-Boverhof CW , Ensing K , de Zeeuw RA
Published: August 2015

The use of Bond Elut Certify columns for the isolation of morphine from whole blood was evaluated. In order to monitor possible losses and the elution profile of morphine, a small amount of the tritiated analogue was added to the samples. Four sample pretreatment methods, three protein precipitation methods and one sonication/dilution method, were tested. The latter one gave the best results. The blood sample was applied onto the column at pH 3.3 after sonication and dilution with 0.1 M phosphate buffer (pH 3.3). The retention of morphine was affected by the pH of the samples, and the loss of morphine during sample application was minimized at low pH (3.3). The interferences were removed by washing the column with the phosphate buffer, 0.01 M acetic acid (pH 3.3), and methanol, sequentially. Ammoniated methanol, 2 mL at 2%, was selected to elute morphine. As a result, more than 80% of 3H-morphine was recovered for concentrations of morphine ranging from 5 to 4000 ng/mL.
Evaluation of Morphological and Histological Adult Skeletal Age-at-Death Estimation Techniques Using Ribs
Authors: Dudar JC , Pfeiffer S , Saunders SR
Published: August 2015

Adult age-at-death estimation standards were applied to an independent sample (N = 50, 55) of documented ages 17.5 to 95 years. Estimates derived from the sternal rib end morphological and from the cortical rib histological techniques were compared with each other and to the documented ages. Comparisons to the documented ages reveal no statistically significant differences between the techniques. However, the comparison of each individual's estimates show a poor correlation (r = 0.54) despite the equal performance of the age estimations on the entire sample. Averaging of the two rib age estimates results in an estimate with a stronger Pearson's r (0.86) and a lower standard error of the estimate (7.5 years).
DNA Fingerprinting from Tissues After Variable Postmortem Periods
Authors: Ludes B , Pfitzinger H , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

DNA typing is a useful tool in forensic cases for determining the identity of remains of humans who have been dead for various periods of time. DNA fingerprinting can be achieved only if high molecular weight DNA (HMWDNA) is extracted from the tissue samples of the bodies even after a long postmortem delay. Analyses were performed on various tissues collected during forensic autopsies of 24 bodies known postmortem ages. Tissues such as blood and kidney were found to be unsuitable for DNA fingerprinting because of a rapid degradation of the DNA after a period of one week. HMWDNA could be successfully extracted from brain cortex regardless of postmortem age.
Purification of Forensic Specimens for the Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Analysis
Authors: Akane A , Shiono H , Matsubara K , Nakamura H , Hasegawa M , Kagawa M
Published: August 2015

Purification methods of deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) from degraded and contaminated forensic samples were investigated for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. DNA extracted from putrefied tissue or bloodstains sometimes contained the copurified contaminant, that was identified as the porphyrin compound (hematin). When contaminated but less degraded DNA was analyzed by PCR, it was necessary to eliminate the impurity by anion exchange column chromatography or chelating resin preparation, and ultrafiltration using Centricon microconcentrators. When highly degraded DNA was analyzed, trace amounts of high molecular weight DNA was recovered by electroelution method, and then further purified by both column chromatography and ultrafiltration. From thus purified samples, the amelogenin gene for sex determination could be amplified by dual PCR technique.
The Effect of Killing and Preservative Solutions on Estimates of Maggot Age in Forensic Cases
Authors: Tantawi TI , Greenberg B
Published: August 2015

Length of the oldest maggots recovered from a body often provide an accurate estimate of the time since death. The length of maggots of Protophormia terraenovae (Robineau-Desvoidy) of known age, at peak of feeding, was measured after 5 days immersion in one of 15 killing and preservative solutions, some of which are routinely used at autopsy and in forensic entomology; controls were killed in boiling water. There was shrinkage in all 15 solutions which translated into an underage error of 9.7 h in 70% ethanol, 11 h in San Veino and 16.8 h in formalin. Larvae of Calliphora vicina (Robineau-Desvoidy) underwent even greater shrinkage, which resulted in an underage error of 19.2 h in 70% ethanol, 26.4 h in formalin and 28.8 h in San Veino. Young third instar larvae underwent more shrinkage than older ones, with underage errors (in hours) as follows: P. terraenovae—70% ethanol, 24 and San Veino, 24; C. vicina—70% ethanol, 7.2 and San Veino, 14.4. Maggots killed in boiling water and then placed in preservative solutions did not shrink. Length of the crop, which may be useful in age estimates of postfeeding larvae, was not altered significantly for forensic purposes in these solutions. The highly significant alterations in maggot length underscore a need for standardization in the treatment of maggots collected at the crime scene and at autopsy if their length is to be interpreted in a valid and consistent way. Recommendations are made for treatment of maggots wherever they are collected.
Documentation of a Doxylamine Overdose Death: Quantitation by Standard Addition and Use of Three Instrumental Techniques
Authors: Siek TJ , Dunn WA
Published: August 2015

To answer the question. “Is this death due to a drug overdose?” requires at least that the drug be unequivocally identified and a blood concentration reliably determined. The approach taken in this case as standard addition technique and use of three different chromatographic techniques—high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), high performance thin—layer chromatography (HP-TLC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Each of the chromatographies was carried out on the same extract by splitting the residue three ways. HPLC provided a quantitative result which was 1.2 mg/L in blood and HP-TLC and GC/MS confirmed this result with additional quantitative data, information about two metabolites (nordoxylamine and dinordoxylamine) and conclusive identification. Blood nordoxylamine was 0.52 mg/L and doxylamine plus metabolites in urine was 25 mg/L.
Fatal Intoxication Involving Etryptamine
Authors: Morano RA , Spies C , Walker FB , Plank SM
Published: August 2015

A case of fatal intoxication due to the ingestion of Etryptamine (ethyltryptamine) is reported. Toxicological findings included the following tissue distribution: blood (heart) 5.6 mg/L: urine 80.4 mg/L; vitreous 2.4 mg/L; bile 22.0 mg/L; stomach contents 52.9 mg. brain 16.2 mg/g; liver 18.3 mg/g and kidney 24.0 mg/g. Anatomic pathology showed pulmonary edema and generalized visceral congestion with some epicardial petechiae.
Cerebral Vasculitis Associated with Cocaine Abuse
Authors: Morrow PL , McQuillen JB
Published: August 2015

A variety of central nervous system pathology has been associated with cocaine abuse, including cerebral vasculitis. We report a case of a 25-year-old woman who died of hypoxic encephalopathy following cardiac arrest due to cocaine abuse. Autopsy revealed a distinctive cerebral vasculitis with features characteristic of hypersensitivity drug included vasculitis. The significance of cerebral vasculitis associated with cocaine is reviewed.
Identification of Gunpowder in Healed Wounds
Authors: Smith OC , Berryman HE , Symes SA , LeVaughn MM
Published: August 2015

A woman received a contact gunshot wound to the abdomen from a .22 caliber revolver. She recovered only to succumb to another gunshot wound six months later. The initial wound was dissected and multiple intact granules of round flake gunpowder were recovered. Cross sections of granules were clearly identifiable in histologic slides. Recovery of intact powder in remote wounds has not been previously described and may help classify the ammunition and weapon used to produce the injury.
A Review of How to Set Your Fees and Get Them
Authors: Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

This is a brief book on a topic that should be dear to the hearts of free lance forensic consultants: How to set up a fee schedule and how to collect one's fees once the job's done. Its chapters discuss such matters as how to determine what your time and knowledge are worth, how to choose an appropriate fee structure (per hour, per day, fiat rate and the like), how to go about quoting the fee to the potential client, how to close the consulting agreement with a letter of agreement (examples of which are provided in an appendix) and what to do if problems arise.
A Review of Instrumental Data for Drug Analysis
Authors: Baselt RC
Published: August 2015

This volume continues in the same vein as the first 4 volumes of this reference set, which were issued in 1987. Volumes 1–3 contain alphabetical listings for approximately 1200 drugs, showing for each drug on two pages the reference spectra by ultraviolet, infrared, nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry analysis. Volume 4 contains an index and several appendices, with sequential page numbering of all 4 volumes for a total of 2682 pages.
A Review of Clinical Psychiatry and the Law
Authors: Berger SH
Published: August 2015

Many mental health practitioners are frightened by the confusing and restrictive legal requirements imposed upon their practices. This book is for them. The purpose of this book is to guide the mental health clinician in conducting his practice according to the requirements of the legal system without fear. While other books scare clinicians away from practice, and promote defensive modes of practice, this book seeks to provide familiarity with the legal requirements in order to diminish fears and defensive practices.
A Review of Entomology and Death: A Procedural Guide
Authors: Olson CA
Published: August 2015

This manual is an excellent blending of scientific techniques and knowledge with criminal investigation backgrounds. It works at maintaining the skills and precision needed by the entomologist to translate rather gruesome scenes into worthwhile courtroom information, plus tweaking one's conscience with ethical and objective standards.
A Review of Succeeding as an Expert Witness
Authors: Isaac G
Published: August 2015

It is a monumental undertaking to assemble material and write a book on a subject that crosses many disciplines and is designed to improve the role and function of the expert witness who ventures into the dispute-resolution process. Harold Feder is to be congratulated for the effort.
An Anthropometric Study of Pedophiles and Rapists
Authors: Taylor D , Myers WC , Robbins L , Barnard GW
Published: August 2015

Anthropometric measurements were obtained on pedophiles (n = 23) and rapists (n = 13) who were in a forensic treatment facility. Hand grip strength was measured with a Jamar hand dynamometer. Ten separate body measurements were taken including height and weight. As an indicator of body fat, triceps skinfold thickness was obtained with calipers on the non-dominant arm. The findings provided mild support for the hypothesis that the rapists in the sample would be stronger, more muscular, and have less body fat than the pedophiles.
Sex Determination from Metacarpals and the First Proximal Phalanx
Authors: Scheuer JL , Elkington NM
Published: August 2015

Sex determination using metacarpals and the first proximal phalanx was carried out on a sample (n = 60) of documented sex. Six measurements were taken on each of metacarpals 1 to 5 and the first proximal phalanx. Regression equations were calculated for determining sex from the bones. The equations were then applied to a second sample (n = 20) also of documented sex to establish the degree of accuracy they produced in assigning sex. The equations for metacarpal 1 produced the highest degree of correct sex determination and overall the degree of accuracy ranged from 74% to 94%.
Osteometry of the Human Iliac Crest: Patterns of Normality and Its Utility in Sexing Human Remains
Authors: Fernández Camacho FJ , Pellico LG , Rodríguez RF-V
Published: August 2015

We recorded nine measurements and one index of the iliac crest in 42 human hip bones from a Spanish skeletal collection. Common values of seven of these parameters and index are reported. We could detect statistically significant differences of means depending on side for two of these parameters (iliac crest rise, distance from the upper point of the iliac crest to the anterior superior spine) and for the iliac crest index, and relating to sex for three parameters (iliac crest arch, iliac crest rise, distance from the upper point of the iliac crest to the anterior superior spine) and for the index. These measurements and index are useful for sexing human remains.
Identification of Rib Number and Assessment of Intercostal Variation at the Sternal Rib End
Authors: Dudar JC
Published: August 2015

A technique for the identification of anatomical rib number is presented here. Preliminary tests indicate that with experience, percent accuracy for identification may approach 100%. This technique was then applied to a skeletal collection where rib number was not documented in order to determine the effects of intercostal variation on the application of rib four age-at-death estimation standards [2,3] to other ribs. Spearman rank correlations between rib four and ribs three through nine range from 0.89 to 0.91. No significant differences were found between ribs conforming to or deviating from the phase observed on rib four. There is a significant proportion of deviations falling below the phase set by rib four, however these deviations are not statistically associated with rib number and are usually within one phase. These results indicate that rib four standards can be cautiously applied to other sternal ends when rib four is not preserved.
Determination of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Antibody Status in Forensic Autopsy Cases Using a Rapid and Simple FDA-Licensed Assay
Authors: Li L , Constantine NT , Zhang X , Smialek JE
Published: August 2015

Evaluation of an FDA-licensed rapid assay to detect antibodies to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) was accomplished by testing 414 serum samples collected sequentially from autopsy cases at the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland. The time of postmortem collection ranged from 8 to 30 hours. All samples were tested for the presence of antibodies to HIV using a rapid peptide microfiltration assay (SUDS HIV-1 test, Murex Corporation, Norcross, GA), and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Samples yielding repeatedly reactive results were confirmed by Western blot. Of the 414 specimens, 23 (5.6%) produced reactive results by both SUDS and ELISA, and were confirmed by Western blot. One additional sample was repeatedly reactive by ELISA but negative by the SUDS test. This sample produced an indeterminate profile by Western blot (reactivity to only p24) and was negative by several additional retroviral assays. Of the 23 HIV infected cases, 16 had risk factors for HIV infection; 19 were blacks and 18 were male. The SUDS, 10 minute test, exhibited a 100% sensitivity and 100% specificity in comparison to FDA-licensed ELISA and Western blot assays for detecting HIV antibody in autopsy serum specimens. We conclude that this rapid, simply performed assay is accurate and applicable for use in several testing situations, including autopsy rooms.
Disappearance of Soft Tissue and the Disarticulation of Human Remains from Aqueous Environments
Authors: Haglund WD
Published: August 2015

Human remains recovered from aquatic environments were scored for regional presence of soft tissue, exposure of bone, and loss of body parts to determine the general pattern of soft tissue loss and loss of body parts. Regions scored were: the cranium, mandible, neck, hands, forearms, upper arms, feet, legs, pelvic girdle, and trunk. Initial disappearance of soft tissue, resulting in exposure of underlying bones, occurred in areas thinly overlain by soft tissue beginning with the head, hands, and anterior lower legs. Disappearance of body parts followed the general sequence: bones of the hands and wrists, bones of the feet and ankles, and the mandible and cranium. The lower legs, forearms, and upper arms are the next units to separate from the body.

Known postmortem intervals for remains analyzed ranged from weeks to years and could not reliably be estimated based on the condition of the body at the time of recovery. As parts drop away from a floating carcass in large or current-driven bodies of water, they are often separated from the major body unit. This complicates recovery. Knowledge of disarticulation sequences allows more informed assessment of skeletal element recoveries to be expected and assists in the interpretation of artifacts and events produced by different disarticulating environments.
A Computer Program for the Estimation of Time of Death
Authors: Lynnerup N
Published: August 2015

In the 1960s Marshall and Hoare presented a “Standard Cooling Curve” based on their mathematical analyses on the postmortem cooling of bodies. Although fairly accurate under standard conditions, the “curve” or formula is based on the assumption that the ambience temperature is constant and that the temperature at death is known. Also, Marshall and Hoare's formula expresses the temperature as a function of time, and not vice versa, the latter being the problem most often encountered by forensic scientists.

A simple BASIC program that enables solving of Marshall and Hoare's equation for the postmortem cooling of bodies is presented. It is proposed that by having a computer program that solves the equation, giving the length of the cooling period in response to a certain rectal temperature, and which allows easy comparison of multiple solutions, the uncertainties related to ambience temperature and temperature at death can be quantified, substantiating estimations of time of death.
Infant Death in San Francisco 1989–1990
Authors: Castiglione AG , Greenwald M , Stephens BG
Published: August 2015

This paper examines all of the unexplained and violent deaths of children less than one year of age in the City and County of San Francisco during the years 1989–1990. A total of 62 cases were collected and analyzed retrospectively. Among the cases we examined, 34 deaths were determined as SIDS, while seven were moded as accidents and two as homicides. The deaths were examined with respect to the following parameters: sex, race, age, height and weight, cause and manner of death, significant autopsy and microscopic findings; circumstances of death including place, the person discovering or reporting the death, the presence of siblings or previous child death in the family and previous illness in the same child. A particular stress is given to the definition and diagnosis of SIDS, according to the international literature, and to the criteria adopted to distinguish SIDS cases from accidents and homicides. A review of both the American and European literature shows that most articles do not include comparisons of data from both the autopsy and the scene. Additionally there is little standardization in the investigation and the extent of postmortem examinations performed. An international standardization of these methods appears necessary and the use of protocols to assure complete investigation and postmortem examination will allow more intensive evaluation of data. Here we give a brief presentation of the necropsy protocol for Sudden Unexpected Infant Death recently written and approved by the California Department of Health Services and used in the Chief Medical Examiner's Office in San Francisco.
Gang-Related Homicides in Los Angeles County
Authors: Rogers C
Published: August 2015

The incidence of gang homicides in Los Angeles County has increased faster than that of non-gang homicides in the past decade. This study compares characteristics of gang homicide victims with those of non-gang homicide victims for the year 1987. In 1186 cases, gang members were more likely to be young Black men who died of gunshot wounds. Gang homicide victims were more likely to die of firearm injuries in the early evening, and were more likely to die in a relatively small area of Los Angeles County. Drive-by shooting was highly associated with gang homicide.
Development and Implementation of the First Clinical Forensic Medicine Training Program
Authors: Smock WS , Nichols GR , Fuller PM
Published: August 2015

To address the un-met forensic needs of victims who are survivors of violent crimes and trauma, the first residency-based clinical forensic medicine training program and fellowship has been established. The Kentucky Medical Examiner's Office and the Department of Emergency Medicine at the University of Louisville are currently training physicians to provide clinical forensic evaluations. The clinical forensic physicians evaluate adult and pediatric victims of blunt and penetrating trauma, sexual and physical abuse and collect evidentiary material when indicated. The development of a clinical forensic medicine training program and fellowship at the resident physician level is internationally unique.
Reduction of Specular Reflectance on Projectiles and Toolmarks by Ammonium Chloride Fuming
Authors: Rios FG , Thornton JI
Published: August 2015

A method for reducing specular reflectance from metallic surfaces in which ammonium chloride is used as a fuming reagent is described. This method has the advantage of being easily controlled, and is rapid. The deposit of ammonium chloride salt on the metallic surface is easily and effectively removed by washing.
An Improvement on Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography for the Differentiation of Photocopy Toners
Authors: Chang W-T , Huang C-W , Giang Y-S
Published: August 2015

During the past two decades, the great increase of the use of photocopying machines has given the forensic scientists many practical difficulties in identifying the origins of copied documents. Analysis of chemical properties of toners can be helpful for photocopier discrimination. Several techniques including infrared spectroscopy (IR) pyrolysis gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS) and scanning electron microscope-energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM-EDX) have been extensively used.

In this study, a Curie-point pyrolyser, a dual wide-bore capillary column GC equipped with dual flame ionization detectors (FIDs) and a personal computer were connected online. The differentiation of photocopier toners, however, was based both on the comparison of retention indices and on conventional pattern recognition. The proposed method including the library search is quite simple, reliable and low-cost.
Investigations of Thin Layer Chromatographic Techniques Used for Forensic Explosives Analysis in the Early 1970s
Authors: Hiley RW
Published: August 2015

The article describes three brief experimental studies of the thin layer chromatographic (TLC) techniques used for forensic explosive investigations at Royal Armament Research and Development Establishment at Woolwich (RARDE Woolwich) in 1974. The first study demonstrated that 200 ng amounts of nitroglycerine (NG) and pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) in TLC spots visualized using the sodium hydroxide/Griess system can be recovered and reanalyzed using a second TLC eluent. In the second study the characteristics of a titanium(III) chloride/4-dimethylaminobenzaldehyde visualization system for nitrotoluenes were investigated. In the third study it was shown that under certain conditions the rate of PETN spot color development after Griess reagent spray could be very slow in comparison with that of NG.