bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postmortem Investigation of Lamotrigine Concentrations
Authors: Pricone MG , King CV , Drummer OH , Opeskin K , McIntyre IM
Published: August 2015

Lamotrigine is a relatively new anticonvulsant. Therapeutic plasma concentrations generally range from 1 to 4 mg/L, although several studies have shown that good control of epilepsy has been achieved with concentrations reaching 10 mg/L generally, with little toxicity. In overdose, however, the drug has been linked to ECG changes that may suggest a possible arrythmogenic effect and hence cardiac toxicity. Lamotrigine has also been shown to cause encephalopathy and thus neurotoxicity.

There is no information concerning postmortem lamotrigine concentrations and their interpretation. We describe lamotrigine concentrations in postmortem specimens including blood, liver, bile, vitreous humour, and urine from eight cases. A high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method is described with extraction procedures for the various tissues.

Two possible groups were identified. The first being the “broader therapeutic” group with blood concentrations ranging from 0.9 to 7.2 mg/L and corresponding liver concentrations ranging from 16 to 36 mg/kg. The second being a “supratherapeutic” group with blood concentrations ranging from 20 to 39 mg/L and corresponding liver concentrations ranging from 53 to 350 mg/kg. Although none of the eight cases described were attributed to overdose by lamotrigine alone, the cause of death for one of the three cases in the “supratherapeutic” group was given as mixed drug toxicity. Cause of death for the remaining two cases in this group was reported as epilepsy. However, both these cases showed elevated concentrations of lamotrigine and both were co-medicated with valproic acid. Such co-administration has been shown in the literature to lead to elevated lamotrigine concentrations and a reduction in lamotrigine dose has been recommended. With such data, we highlight the importance of monitoring lamotrigine concentrations in cases co-medicated, particularly with valproic acid.
Cause and Manner of Death Among Users of Anabolic Androgenic Steroids
Authors: Thiblin I , Lindquist O , Rajs J
Published: August 2015

Medicolegally investigated deaths among 34 male users of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are described. Nine persons were victims of homicide, 11 had committed suicide, 12 deaths were judged as accidental and 2 as indeterminate.

In two cases of accidental poisoning, the levels of pharmaceuticals and illicit drugs were considered too low to be the sole cause of death and AAS was considered part of the lethal polypharmacia.

Chronic cardiac changes were observed in 12 cases. In two cases of accidental poisonous deaths, these changes were regarded as contributory cause of death.

Homicides, suicides, and poisonings determined accidental or indeterminate in manner were related to impulsive, disinhibited behavior characterized by violent rages, mood swings, and/or uncontrolled drug intake.

The observations in the present study indicate an increased risk of violent death from impulsive, aggressive behavior, or depressive symptoms associated with use of AAS. There are also data to support earlier reports of possible lethal cardiovascular complications from use of AAS. Furthermore, a contributing role of AAS in lethal polypharmacia is suggested. Finally, the observations indicate that use of AAS may be the gateway of approach to abuse of other psychotropic drugs.
Potency Trends of Δ9-THC and Other Cannabinoids in Confiscated Marijuana from 1980–1997
Authors: ElSohly MA , Ross SA , Mehmedic Z , Arafat R , Yi B , Banahan BF
Published: August 2015

The analysis of 35,312 cannabis preparations confiscated in the USA over a period of 18 years for delta-9-tetrahy-drocannabinol (Δ9-THC) and other major cannabinoids is reported. Samples were identified as cannabis, hashish, or hash oil. Cannabis samples were further subdivided into marijuana (loose material, kilobricks and buds), sinsemilla, Thai sticks and ditchweed. The data showed that more than 82% of all confiscated samples were in the marijuana category for every year except 1980 (61%) and 1981 (75%). The potency (concentration of Δ9-THC) of marijuana samples rose from less than 1.5% in 1980 to approximately 3.3% in 1983 and 1984, then fluctuated around 3% till 1992. Since 1992, the potency of confiscated marijuana samples has continuously risen, going from 3.1% in 1992 to 4.2% in 1997. The average concentration of Δ9-THC in all cannabis samples showed a gradual rise from 3% in 1991 to 4.47% in 1997. Hashish and hash oil, on the other hand, showed no specific potency trends. Other major cannabinoids [cannabidiol (CBD), cannabinol (CBN), and cannabichromene (CBC)] showed no significant change in their concentration over the years.
Neck Injuries Caused by Being Run Over by a Motor Vehicle
Authors: Maxeiner H , Ehrlich E , Schyma C
Published: August 2015

We report a homicide involving the use of a motor vehicle and simulating a traffic accident. This observation was the reason for a retrospective analysis of neck injuries in victims of traffic accidents, in which a person has been run over (RO) by a motor vehicle. The autopsy material of two institutes from 1990–1996 was used. The following findings were obtained in 63 victims: laryngohyoid fractures (LH-fx): 10 cases (16%) with a clear difference between the institutes (22% versus 7%). This resulted from examination with special regard to such injuries in many cases at one of the institutes, whereas only autopsy reports were taken retrospectively from the other institute. Five of these cases had suffered only minor LH-fx (as seen frequently in strangulation), although extensive run over (RO) injuries of the other cervical tissues were present. All LH-fx were caused by direct compression of the neck; in eight of the cases they were combined with mandibular fractures. Petechial hemorrhages (petH) at the eye lids/conjunctivae were seen in 19 cases (30%); 16 of these were related to thorax RO injuries, three to abdominal RO only. Four cases involved LH-fx, petH as well as cervical skin lesions and additional cervical soft tissue hemorrhages. Interpretation can be extremely difficult with this combination of findings if the character of the event cannot be established as accidental beyond doubt on the basis of the circumstances.
Spectroscopic Determination of Skin Viability. A Predictor of Postmortem Interval
Authors: Doukas AG , Bamberg M , Gillies R , Evans R , Kollias N
Published: August 2015

We have demonstrated that skin viability decreases at a measurable rate following death in an animal model. The decreased skin viability was measured by fluorescein diacetate and ethidium bromide using fluorescence emission spectroscopy. There is significant decrease of the fluorescence intensity of the fluorescein diacetate assay between the 1–4 h, the 6–24 h, and the >40 h time points postmortem. For times between 6–24 h and >40 h postmortem the ethidium bromide assay showed consistent and significant increases in signal. The fluorescence measurements in this study showed that under the experimental conditions the time of death could be determined for <4, 6–24, and >40 h potmotrem. The application of these assays in the field will require further study of the environmental factors.
Heroin Body Packing: Three Fatal Cases of Intestinal Perforation
Authors: Hutchins KD , Pierre-Louis PJB , Zaretski L , Williams AW , Lin RL , Natarajan GA
Published: August 2015

Death from heroin body packing has been well described in the forensic literature. Most fatalities are due to drug leakage and consequent acute heroin toxicity. Recently, drug traffickers have become more sophisticated in their packaging, and the risk of rupture of drug packets is more remote. Though intestinal obstruction is a recognized risk of body packing, rarely has this resulted in death. We describe four cases of heroin body packing presenting to the Regional Medical Examiner Office in New Jersey. Death in three of these cases was due to intestinal obstruction, with resultant intestinal rupture and peritonitis. Toxicologic evaluation in these three cases was negative for opiates or other drugs of abuse. In one case, death was due to acute heroin toxicity, validated by toxicologic analysis. We briefly discuss the differing drug packaging found in these four cases and the ramifications of packaging as it relates to intestinal obstruction.
In Vivo Facial Tissue Depth Measurements for Children and Adults
Authors: Manhein MH , Listi GA , Barsley RE , Musselman R , Barrow NE , Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

This study reports results of a facial tissue depth measurements project conducted over a two-year period on a modern sample of children and adults of both sexes and varying ages and races. The purpose of this research was to increase available tissue depth data for children and update facial tissue depth measurements for American adults. Most volunteers for this project were patients or visitors to the pediatric clinic at the Louisiana State University Medical Center, School of Dentistry, in New Orleans, Using state-of-the-art ultrasound technology, we scanned 551 children and 256 adults at 19 points across the face. Thirteen of the scanned points were traditional landmarks while six others were areas not measured by previous researchers or were points for which very little data exist for both children and adults. For this presentation, we analyzed data for 515 children and 197 adults. Results of Pearson's correlations, analysis of variance, and paired t-tests indicate that age, sex, and race are significant factors when considering tissue depth means for different measurement locations across the human face. These new standards are compared to the work of other researchers. Our results provide valuable assistance in both two-dimensional and three-dimensional facial reproductions and superimpositions.
The Rhomboid Fossa of the Clavicle as a Sex and Age Estimator
Authors: Rogers NL , Flournoy LE , McCormick WF
Published: August 2015

The costoclavicular (rhomboid) ligament connects the first rib to the clavicle, stabilizing the pectoral girdle. It produces skeletal traits that may be tubercles, roughened impressions, shallow groove-like fossae, deep fossae, or leave no trace. A pit or depression at this site is often called a “rhomboid fossa.” While these markings may appear pathological, they are normal variants of the clavicle. Using a large contemporary sample (N = 344; 113 females, 231 males), we evaluated the presence of a rhomboid fossa as a sex and age indicator for unidentified skeletal remains.

Logistic regression found significant relationships between the presence of a rhomboid fossa and sex and between presence of a rhomboid fossa and age. Fossae were more common in males (36% left, 31% right) than in females (3% left, 8% right). Posterior probabilities suggest that a fossa on the right clavicle is indicative of a male with 81.7% probability; a fossa on the left is indicative of a male with 92.2% probability. Younger individuals more commonly exhibited rhomboid fossae than older individuals, and the largest fossae were most common in males 20–30 years of age. However, the age effect was not conclusive and must be corroborated by other methods. A test of the sex estimation method on an independent sample (26 males, 23 females) found nine males and only one female with fossae present on the left clavicle.

When the costoclavicular attachment exhibits an impression, a tubercle, or leaves no trace, this method cannot be used for sex estimation. When a clavicle exhibits a rhomboid fossa, it is likely from a male. The greater difference in fossa expression between the sexes on the left clavicle makes use of the left bone preferable. This technique can corroborate other sex estimates or provide an estimate for unknown individuals in the absence of other skeletal indicators.
Ground Penetrating Radar Surveys to Locate 1918 Spanish Flu Victims in Permafrost
Authors: Davis JL , Heginbottom JA , Annan AP , Daniels RS , Berdal BP , Bergan T , Duncan KE , Lewin PK , Oxford JS , Roberts N , Skehel JJ , Smith CR
Published: August 2015

The “Spanish Flu” killed over 40 million people worldwide in 1918. Archival records helped us identify seven men who died of influenza in 1918 and were interred in Longyearbyen. Svalbard, Norway, 1300 km from the North Pole. Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) was used successfully, in a high-resolution field survey mode, to locate a large excavation with seven coffins, near the existing seven grave markers. The GPR indicated that the ground was disturbed to 2 m depth and was frozen below 1 m. Subsequent excavation showed that: a) the GPR located the position of the graves accurately, b) the coffins were buried less than 1 m deep, and c) that the frozen ground was 1.2 m deep where the coffins were located. The GPR assisted in planning the exhumation, safely and economically, under the high degree of containment required. Virologic and bacteriologic investigations on recovered tissues may give us an opportunity to isolate and identify the micro-organisms involved in the 1918 influenza and expand our knowledge on the pathogenesis of influenza.
Stalking Behavior in Delusional Jealousy
Authors: Silva JA , Derecho DV , Leong GB , Ferrari MM
Published: August 2015

Stalking behavior has been associated with several mental disorders, both psychotic and non-psychotic. The most frequently associated condition appears to be an individual with primitive personality psychopathology regardless of co-occurring psychotic symptomatology. Among the psychotic symptoms, erotomanic, and jealousy delusions may be the most clinically and forensically relevant. However, delusional jealousy has not been well appreciated in the psychiatric literature as an important contributor to stalking behavior. In this article, we explore the psychiatric, psychosocial, and forensic aspects of stalking in the context of delusional jealousy. We use a case example to highlight important issues in this area.
Rapid Search and Quantitative Analysis of Gunshot Residue Particles in the SEM
Authors: Lebiedzik J , Johnson DL
Published: August 2015

Automated scanning electron microscopy coupled with image analysis and X-ray micro analysis was used to characterize a variety of gunshot residue (GSR) samples. More than 500 rounds of commercially available ammunition and six different types of hand guns were used in the study of 17 GSR and 19 reference specimens. The individual particle X-ray composition was determined for 12 different elements. Elemental composition of GSR particles was highly variable but consistent with compounds mixed into or associated with a barium oxide matrix. When present in a specimen, GSR could be adequately characterized with automated procedures in less than an hour by restricting analyses to features larger than 2 µm. In “clean” samples, a higher resolution particle search was required to avoid reporting false negatives. Careful control of the back scattered electron signal strength threshold, by reference to a standard, was needed to ensure both time-efficient and accurate analyses. Samples collected from non-shooting subjects, active in a physical environment which contained firearms discharge residue were seen to be easily contaminated by sub-micron GSR particles.
Analysis of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Tape: I. Evaluation of Infrared ATR Accessory Advances
Authors: Merrill RA , Bartick EG
Published: August 2015

Attenuated total reflection (ATR), also known as internal reflection spectroscopy (IRS), is a forensically accepted method for infrared (IR) analysis of pressure sensitive adhesive tapes. Advancements of ATR accessories in the last decade have provided the forensic examiner several ATR methods to choose from. These accessories offer a variety of ATR crystal choices with a variety of prices and capabilities. Four different types of pressure sensitive adhesive tapes including duct tape, electrical tape, packaging tape and office tape have been used to compare six different ATR methods. Each of the methods tested offers both benefits and limitations which must be considered for the type of sample to be analyzed. The intent of this paper is to assist the reader in better understanding ATR techniques, the many differences among currently available ATR accessories and how the method is applied to the analysis of pressure sensitive adhesive tape.
Tracing the Source of Illicit Drugs Through Plastic Packaging—A Database
Authors: Roux C , Bull S , Goulding J , Lennard C
Published: August 2015

Common plastic drug packaging material available in Australia and in Asia was analyzed using a standard protocol including optical examination, UV-visible and Fourier transform infrared spectrometry. The aims were to determine whether there are significant differences between different sources, to establish the evidential value of these examinations, and to build a database of common packaging material.

Visual examination was the most effective means for discriminating samples. Thickness and weight measurements provided useful information. Visualization of machining marks using crossed polarized light was found to be useful in the comparison process. UV-visible spectrophotometry has some value for distinguishing samples. Fourier transform infrared analysis was a good technique for determination of the polymer composition of the packaging. Significant differences were observed between Australian and overseas samples.

The “Australian Database of Drug Packaging Materials” was created to systematically collate all of the collected data for application on personal computers. It is concluded that the properties of plastic packaging materials can be excellent indicators for identifying the specific brand or origin of the packaging.
Medical Examination of Sexually Abused Children: Medico-Legal Value
Authors: Lauritsen AK , Meldgaard K , Charles AV
Published: August 2015

The Department of Forensic Medicine (forensic pathology and clinical forensic medicine), Aarhus, Jutland, Denmark, performs examinations of children suspected to have been sexually abused when reported to and requested by the police in Jutland, Denmark. Jutland covers an area of 210,000 km2 with about 300,000 inhabitants in Aarhus. A colposcope initially equipped with an Olympus camera, but now with a video camera attached has been used since 1994. Since 1994 the department has performed more than 100 examinations of children suspected of having been sexually abused. A preliminary study was taken to evaluate all cases from 1995 including the legal outcome. Results: The material included 34 cases with three boys, mean age 11 years, and 31 girls, mean age 8 years, at the time of the examination. The sexual abuse events were fondling, including penetration of the vagina, vaginal (14), anal (7), and oral (5) intercourse as well as cunnilingus and nontouching abuses. The medical examination was most often performed more than a week after the abuse. The examination revealed normal findings in 23 cases, nonspecific findings including erythema in 13 cases, and in only one child was a traumatic lesion with rupture of the hymen seen. The perpetrators were above 25 years of age and were family members or someone known to the child. Nine perpetrators were convicted at court, of whom three admitted having abused the child. Conclusion: A medical examination in cases of sexual child abuse seldom provides a legal proof of sexual abuse. The most important is the story told by the child. Therefore, the examination is a supplement which may support or remain neutral to the story told by the child.
World Population Data for the HLA-DQA1, PM® and D1S80 Loci with Least and Most Common Profile Frequencies for Combinations of Loci Estimated Following NRC II Guidelines
Authors: Peterson BL , Su B , Chakraborty R , Budowle B , Gaensslen RE
Published: August 2015

All published and unpublished gene frequency data for the PCR-based loci HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, GC, and D1S80 that could be located are presented in summary tables. These gene frequencies provide the data necessary for estimating probabilities of chance match according to NRC II guidelines for any DNA profile that includes any combination of these loci for any of the populations.

To illustrate the range of polymorphism for combined locus profiles, least and most common profile frequencies were estimated following NRC II guidelines for: the PM loci for all populations for which PM data were available; and for combinations of HLA-DQA1/PM, HLA-DQA1/D1S80, PM/D1S80, and HLA-DQA1/PM/D1S80 for populations for which data were available for the relevant combinations. The profile frequencies were calculated at ϑ values of zero and 0.01. Minimum allele frequencies (MAF) were calculated, and are shown, for each data set for which the MAF was greater than the lowest observed allele frequency. Least common profile frequencies were calculated using MAF in those cases to illustrate a conservative estimate. The effect of using MAF versus lowest observed allele frequency in estimating least common profile frequencies is briefly illustrated as well.

We finally show that aggregate U.S. gene frequency data for the classical MN and GC polymorphisms for both Caucasian and African-American populations is fully in accord with the DNA-based gene frequency data obtained from PM® reverse dot-blot strips for GYPA and GC, respectively.
An Evaluation of the Relevance of Routine DNA Typing of Fingernail Clippings for Forensic Casework
Authors: Oz C , Zamir A
Published: August 2015

DNA extracted from fingernail clipping of victims in forensic cases is a possible source of DNA from the perpetrator in cases where victims struggled or defended themselves. The source of this DNA on a victim's fingernails could possibly originate from contact with the suspect's blood, saliva, semen or scratched skin. In this technical note we evaluate the relevance of routine DNA typing of fingernail clippings in the forensic biology laboratory when, in real casework, normally only small quantities of nail material is sent. This was carried out by extracting DNA from fingernail clippings from a number of volunteers, before and after aggressively scratching other volunteers. No blood was drawn from the scratching, but skin flakes were observed under the nails before cutting and subsequent DNA typing. The DNA extracted was then typed using the STR systems: HUMTHO1, HUMTPOX and HUMCSF1PO (CTT triplex) and the system of D1S80. These profiles were compared with profiles achieved by similar typing of buccal swabs as a reference from each volunteer. In this study, the profile detected from each volunteer's clippings was the same before and after scratching, and matched the profile of the corresponding volunteer as defined by typing each volunteer's reference buccal swab. Fingernail clippings that are sent to our lab in actual casework are usually so small that additional treatment by swabbing or removing debris from below the clipping is not possible. For this reason, in this simulation the entire clippings were used for DNA extraction, to maximize the possibility of finding an additional profile.

In conclusion, the findings from this study show that although the profiles obtained when typing fingernail clippings are those of the donors themselves, we suggest that typing of fingernail clippings should be carried out in forensic cases only when relevant. We would suggest that fingernail clippings not be routinely sent to the biology laboratory as items of evidence to be tested.
Determination of Amphetamine by HPLC After Acetylation
Authors: Veress T
Published: August 2015

An analytical procedure has been developed for the HPLC determination of amphetamine by off-line pre-column derivatization. The proposed procedure consists of sample preparation by acetylation of amphetamine with acetic anhydride and a subsequent reversed-phase HPLC separation on an octadecyl silica stationary phase with salt-free mobile phase (tetrahydrofuran, acetonitrile, 0.1% triethylamine in water, 15:15:70 v/v) applying UV-detection. The applicability of the elaborated procedure is demonstrated with results obtained by analysis of real samples seized in the Hungarian black market.
Allelic Frequencies for the HLA-DQA1, D1S80, HUMTHO1, HUMTPOX, HUMCSF1PO and HUMVWA Loci in Cantabria (Middle North Spain)
Authors: Sánchez-Molina I , Calvet R
Published: August 2015

Allele frequencies for six DNA polymorphisms have been studied in a population sample from Cantabria (middle north Spain) using the polymerase chain reaction. The HLA-DQA1 locus was analyzed by the reverse dot-blot technique and the other five by polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by silver staining. Six alleles were found for HLA-DQA1, 15 alleles for D1S80, 6 alleles for HUMTHO1 and HUMCSF1PO, 7 for HUMTPOX and 8 alleles for HUMVWA. The 21 repeat allele in HUMVWA had not previously been reported in a Spanish population. The genotype distributions met Hardy-Weinberg expectations for all the systems and some statistical parameters of forensic interest were calculated. Comparisons with other populations revealed significant differences for HLA-DQA1, HUMVWA and HUMTHO1, with interracial differences being more pronounced than between Spanish populations. The HUMVWA system showed the highest forensic efficiency of the six polymorphisms studied.
Doping Control for β-Adrenergic Compounds Through Hair Analysis
Authors: Kintz P , Dumestre-Toulet V , Jamey C , Cirimele V , Ludes B
Published: August 2015

An original procedure was developed to simultaneously test β2-agonists (salbutamol and clenbuterol) and β-blockers (atenolol, acebutolol, pindolol, betaxolol, propranolol, timolol, sotalol, metoprolol, tertatolol, bisoprolol, labetalol and oxprenolol) in both human and animal hair. After decontamination with methylene chloride (2 times, 2 min), a 200 mg hair strand is pulverized in a ball mill. Then, a 100 mg portion is incubated overnight in 2 mL 0.1 N HCl, at 56°C, in the presence of carteolol, which was used as an internal standard. After neutralization of the acid phase with 0.1 N NaOH, a 2 mL bicarbonate buffer (pH 8.6) is added to the preparation, which is then purified by solid-phase extraction with Isolute C18 columns. Drugs are derivatized using a mixture of trimethylboroxine-ethyl acetate for 15 min at 80°C to form methaneboronate derivatives. Drugs are detected using GC/MS on an HP 6890-5973 system. A 4 µL portion of the derivatized extract is injected using a pulsed mode in a 30 m HP5 MS capillary column. Linearit was observed for all compounds in the range 25 pg/mg to 10 ng/mg. Limits of detection were in the range 2 to 10 pg/mg. At 1 ng/mg, recoveries were in the range from 37 to 100%, with a within-run precision of 5.9 to 14.1% (n = 8).

The application of the method can be documented by the following examples: (1) Hair from asthmatic patients (n = 11), including two cases of asthma deaths, tested positive for salbutamol in the range of 27 to 210 pg/mg, (2) A 24-year-old swimmer who tested positive in urine for salbutamol demed the results. Hair analysis confirmed salbutamol exposure, with a concentration of 71 pg/mg, (3) A shooting specialist was assumed to chronically use metoprolol (100 mg/daily, during some periods). Hair concentration of metoprolol was 8.41 ng/mg. (4) An archery specialist was assumed to chronically use sotalol (80 mg/daily, during some periods). Hair concentration of sotalol was 261 pg/mg. (5) Hair from two calves revealed chronic exposure to clenbuterol, which was used to increase the mass of the animals at a concentration of 30 and 48 pg/mg.
When Is 100% Inspection Not Enough? An Analysis of Three Pickup Truck Front Wheel Assembly Failures
Authors: Van Kirk DJ , Sas JP , Cross PN
Published: August 2015

The loss of a cotter pin in the front wheel assembly of cars and trucks has been a problem for several years. This is shown by the fact that the automobile manufacturers have been committed to a 100% inspection of the process for installing them on cars and trucks. In this paper, three accident cases are presented, along with a method by which the forensic engineer can determine if a cotter pin has ever been installed on the front wheel assembly. Testing was done to show what the spindle would look like if the cotter pin had been installed properly and forcibly removed. Photographs show both the accident and test spindle for comparison.
Superfecundation and Dual Paternity in a Twin Pregnancy Ending with Placental Abruption
Authors: Ambach E , Parson W , Brezinka C
Published: August 2015

A case of superfecundation and dual paternity in a twin pregnancy is presented. Placental abruption developed at week 33 of gestation and the two boys had to be saved by emergency cesarean section. As they shared one placenta, had almost identical weight and had the same sex, they were assumed to be monozygotic. However, a subsequent paternity suit led to the conclusion, based on DNA-analysis, that the twin brothers had been fathered by two different men. Obstetrical implications are discussed.
Use of Fecal Material to Associate a Suspect with a Crime Scene: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Norris DO , Bock JH
Published: August 2015

Fecal matter analyses were applied to two cases: a homicide and a robbery. Scrapings of fecal matter removed from samples of clothing obtained from a homicide suspect were examined for their plant cell and cell fragment content and compared with fecal matter from a rape-homicide victim and scrapings from her clothing. Scrapings were hydrated and examined microscopically. Types of food plants were identified from the observed cells by comparison with known food plants. A similar analysis was conducted on the clothing of a robbery suspect and compared with fecal material left at the crime scene. The results showed that, respectively in the two cases, the reference samples were remarkably similar, if not identical, to those from the suspects' clothing.
A Case of Cotard's Syndrome Associated with Self-Starvation
Authors: Silva JA , Leong GB , Weinstock R , Gonzales CL
Published: August 2015

Cotard's syndrome is a psychotic condition often associated with nihilistic delusions. This syndrome can be associated with destructive behaviors directed at the self and/or others. In this report we highlight the psychiatric-legal issues involving a case of Cotard's syndrome associated with self-starvation.
Familicide, Depression and Catathymic Process
Authors: Schlesinger LB
Published: August 2015

A case of familicide by a 36-year-old male is reported. After years of stable marriage, exemplary military service, and steady employment, the subject developed his first episode of depression triggered, in part, by his inability to solve a problem associated with completion of a home improvement project. As the depression intensified, and dormant conflicts regarding his competency and self-esteem were rekindled, he experienced pronounced feelings of failure. After an extended period of agonizing about his problem, the idea suddenly emerged that his only recourse was to kill his family and himself, in order to spare everyone the humiliation of his perceived inadequacy. Such a fixed idea, along with a mounting pressure to act, is characteristic of the (chronic) catathymic process, in which a subject, without apparent motive, resorts to extreme violence directed at someone close to him. A detailed discussion of this case within the framework of catathymic process adds to our knowledge of family mass murder and refines the profile of potentially familicidal men.
Hydrocephalus: A Fatal Late Consequence of Mumps Encephalitis
Authors: González-Gil J , Zarrabeitia MT , Altuzarra E , Sánchez-Molina I , Calvet R
Published: August 2015

Common and usually self-limited diseases may occasionally have fatal consequences. Hydrocephalus is a very rare complication of mumps, with just a few cases reported in the literature. Here we report a fatal case of hydrocephalus presenting 19 years after mumps encephalitis. The long latency period between encephalitis and hydrocephalus-associated symptoms makes this case particularly interesting.
Fatal Fall of an Aircraft Stowaway: A Demonstration of the Importance of Death Scene Investigation
Authors: Thogmartin JR
Published: August 2015

Scene investigation is of paramount importance in forensic pathology. Many medical and coroner systems wisely and routinely evaluate the scene in homicides but do not routinely investigate traffic fatality scenes. This case originally was thought to be a pedestrian-automobile event, but, due to proper and prompt scene investigation, it was determined that the decedent was actually a wheel-well stowaway who fell from a commercial aircraft.
Suicide by Electrocution with Low-Voltage Current
Authors: Marc B , Baudry F , Douceron H , Ghaith A , Wepierre J-L , Garnier M
Published: August 2015

Three cases of suicide by electrocution with low-voltage current were observed in five years (1994–1998) by medical clinical forensic examiners of an Emergency Forensic Unit of the Paris suburb among 2000 external death examinations. The cases involved one woman, aged 72 and two men, aged 38 and 41. In the last two cases, electric burns were retrieved under bared electric wires, placed on the arms or fingers in order to realize a hand-to-hand electric circuit involving the heart muscle. In the other case, the electric circuit between mouth and foot also involved the heart muscle.

Household low-voltage current delivered (220 V in France) had a sufficient strength to induce local muscular paralysis and heart fibrillation. In the three cases, blood samples taken have retrieved very high levels of muscular enzymes (CPK, LDH) correlated to the mechanism of electric death. The rareness of suicide by electrocution and its forensic characteristics are detailed in order to help the clinical forensic examiners, prosecutors, and police officers concerned by such death examinations.
Symposium: Essays Honoring T. Dale Stewart, M.D. (1901–1997)
Authors: Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

This collection of essays and the symposium they represent was organized and edited by Douglas H. Ubelaker, Ph.D., Department of Anthropology, National Museum of Natural History, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. 20560. The symposium was presented at the 51st Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in Orlando, Florida, February 19, 1999.
The Forensic Anthropology Legacy of T. Dale Stewart (1901–1997)
Authors: Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

T. Dale Stewart (1901–1997) began his Smithsonian career as a temporary aide to Aleš Hrdlička (1869–1943) in 1924. At the time of his death in 1997, he was regarded world-wide as an authority who led the professional development of American forensic anthropology. He was a prodigious researcher, best known for his meticulous attention to detail, balanced scientific judgment, keen sense of research design, and ability for synthesis. Stewart's publications, extensive casework for the FBI and others, his court testimony, publications, professional contacts, and organizational activity merit him a prominent place in the history of American forensic anthropology.
Becoming Respectable: T. Dale Stewart and the Acceptance of Forensic Anthropology in the Academic Community
Authors: Kennedy KAR
Published: August 2015

Before World War II, forensic anthropology was of peripheral interest to a few anthropologists willing to assist in investigations by law enforcement agencies. A strong bias that “police work” was unbecoming to the scholarly pursuits of academics persisted into the post-war years. Changes took place as a consequence of T. Dale Stewart's case work in the identification of human remains with the FBI from 1943 to 1969, his directorship of the National Museum of Natural History (Smithsonian Institution) beginning in 1962, and his work with the Armed Forces after 1948. This paper discusses the historic period of transition of attitudes and practices in the contexts of Stewart's contributions and the cases and teaching programs of one of his contemporaries, Theodore D. McCown at the University of California at Berkeley, during the period of 1939 to 1969. The establishment of the Physical Anthropology Section within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences in 1972 and the creation of the T. Dale Stewart award for distinguished service in forensic anthropology advanced those laboratory research programs and medical-legal investigations conducted by present-day forensic anthropologists.
Dr. T. Dale Stewart's Travels
Authors: Prokopec M
Published: August 2015

Renowned forensic physical anthropologist Dr. T. Dale Stewart traveled extensively to countries all over the world. The reasons for his journeys were manifold. He did fieldwork, took part in congresses, visited scientific institutions, and lectured by invitation at various universities. This paper deals with his journeys in general and with his four visits to Czechoslovakia in particular. Three of them were undertaken in connection with scientific congresses dedicated to Dr. Aleš Hrdlička. Dr. Stewart, as Hrdlička's successor in the Smithsonian Institution, always chose an appropriate topic for his lecture. His visits to Hrdlička's native country and town contributed to better mutual understanding and exchange of ideas between physical anthropologists and anatomists from both countries, the USA and Czechoslovakia (the today separate Czech and Slovak Republics).
T. Dale Stewart: Remembrances of a Scholar and Colleague
Authors: Finnegan M
Published: August 2015

T. Dale Stewart's contributions had a considerable influence on the development and early evolution of the field of forensic anthropology. This composition provides a perception of Stewart from the viewpoint of an advanced graduate student and then a young colleague. It explains, in part, the quiet leadership and assistance that Stewart provided at various professional and familiar levels to one individual and is indicative of the broad effect that Stewart had on generations of students and professionals in anthropology, osteology and forensic anthropology.
Archaeology, Science and Forensic Anthropology: A Tribute to Dr. T. Dale Stewart
Authors: Bass WM , Bennett JL
Published: August 2015

The name, T. Dale Stewart is synonymous with physical anthropology. To many members of the physical anthropology section, particularly those born in the latter half of this century, he is perhaps best known for his 1979 Essentials of Forensic Anthropology. Without a doubt, much of the foundation of this discipline rests upon his teachings and influence.

Few knew him in the capacity that William M. Bass did, as T. Dale Stewart was a member of Bass' doctoral committee. Bass was greatly influenced during the time he spent working with Dr. Stewart in the 1950's and the instruction and guidance Stewart instilled in Bass has and will continue to be passed on to subsequent generations.

Research was Dale Stewart's main emphasis and he succeeded in demonstrating the value of investigation and how results were crucial in explaining many of the processes manifest on skeletal material. Clearly his hypothesis-based approach became essential to skeletal biology and numerous procedures and methods employed in the field are synonymous with the teachings of Dr. T. Dale Stewart. By reflecting on several recently completed interdisciplinary research projects, the far-reaching impact of his knowledge and instruction can be demonstrated.
T. Dale Stewart's Perspective on His Career as a Forensic Anthropologist at the Smithsonian
Authors: Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

T. D. Stewart (1901–1997) is internationally recognized as an early leader in forensic anthropology. In a series of taped interviews in 1975 and in 1986, Stewart discusses his professional development. The interviews document his early education in Delta, Pennsylvania, his long career at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC and aspects of his many contributions to forensic anthropology. His well-known careful editorial work and exhaustive, problem-oriented research approach may have been influenced by his early training in his hometown bank and his many years of apprenticeship under Aleš Hrdlička (1869–1943). Stewart describes aspects of the difficulties of working for Hrdlička, yet credits the work ethic established by him as a formative factor in his own prodigious productivity.
Publications of T. Dale Stewart (1901–1997)
Authors: Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

T. D. Stewart (1901–1997) published at least 394 works between the years 1929 and 1992. These include 118 reviews, 40 abstracts, 227 articles or book chapters, five edited volumes, and four books or monographs.
Sex Differences in Proximal Humeral Outline Shape: Elliptical Fourier Functions
Authors: Tanaka H , Lestrel PE , Uetake T , Kato S , Ohtsuki F
Published: August 2015

A method is presented for the numerical analysis of sex differences in size and shape of the proximal humeral outlines using elliptical Fourier functions (EFFs). A skeletal sample consisting of right and left humeri pairs of 69 individuals, 36 males and 33 females, was used. The proximal superior view in the plane of the proximo-distal axis of each humerus was photographed and then 54 boundary points were located on the two-dimensional outline tracings. These points were digitized and used to compute EFFs with 27 harmonics. From the EFFs, a set of expected points on the proximal humeral outline was generated using the centroid as an origin. Superimposition of the male and female outlines on this centroid provided a detailed picture of the relative sex differences in size and shape with respect to that center.

The bounded area of the proximal humeral outline showed statistically significant sex differences. Additionally, statistical results of the amplitudes derived from the “area-standardized” EFFs and visual assessments of the mean outline plots indicated significant sex differences in shape of the proximal humeral outlines. Focusing on localized regional differences, the greater tubercle was located more postero-medially and the lesser tubercle was located more anteriorly in the males compared to the females. Sex determinations from the proximal humeri were also examined with discriminant functions based on the amplitudes, which represent shape characteristics of the outline, and the bounded area. Using a cross-validation method, predictions of the percentages of cases correctly classified with the discriminant functions were ranged from 92.8% to 95.7% for the right and left humeral data. These results suggest that differences in size and shape of the proximal humeral outlines may be better predictors of sex when compared with conventional measurements of the humerus.
Age Estimation by Occlusal Tooth Wear
Authors: Kim Y-K , Kho H-S , Lee K-H
Published: August 2015

The purpose of the present investigation was to test the accuracy of a new scoring system in recording tooth wear for age estimation. The material consisted of dental stone casts of 383 volunteers who had sound premolars and molars with normal occlusion. The degree of occlusal wear for all preolar and molar teeth was scored with the new system. The high intra- and inter-examiner concordances showed that the new score system was very reliable. The degree of tooth wear showed a significant positive correlation with age in each and every examined tooth of both males and females. Tooth wear scores of males were higher than those of females. Calculating tables for age estimation were designed and the accuracy of age estimation was obtained with the General Linear Models procedures. Our system could provide estimation of an individual's age within ±3 years in 42.4% of males and 49.4% of females, within ±5 years in 61.8% of males and 63.3% of females. When the subjects were divided into two age groups and data were re-treated, the accuracy of age estimation was increased. Collectively, it was shown that our new system for scoring tooth wear is a reliable and accurate method for age estimation.
Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometric Characterization of Nail Polishes and Paint Surfaces
Authors: Gresham GL , Groenewold GS , Bauer WF , Ingram JC
Published: August 2015

A variety of paint and fingernail polish samples, which were visually similar, but had different chemical compositions and formulations, was analyzed using quadrupole static secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS). Coating distinction was easily achieved in many cases because of the presence of dominant ions derived from the components of the coating, which could be observed in the SIMS spectra. In other instances, coating distinction was difficult within a product line because of spectral complexity; for this reason and because of the large numbers of spectra generated in this study, multivariate statistical techniques were employed, which allowed the meaningful classification and comparison of spectra. Partial Least Squares (PLS) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) were applied to quadrupole SIMS data. PCA showed distinct spectral differences between most spectral groups, and also emphasized the reproducibility of the SIMS spectra. When using PLS analysis, reasonably accurate coating identification was achieved with the data. Overall, the PLS model is more than 90% effective in identifying the spectrum of a particular coating, and nearly 100% effective at telling which coating components represented in the PLS models are not present in a spectrum. The level of spectral variation caused by sample bombardment in the SIMS analysis was investigated using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and quadrupole static SIMS. Changes in the FT-IR spectra were observed and were most likely a result of a number of factors involving the static SIMS analysis. However, the bulk of the sample is unaltered and may be used for further testing.
Physical and Chemical Evidence Remaining After the Explosion of Large Improvised Bombs. Part 2: Firings of Calcium Ammonium Nitrate/Sugar Mixtures
Authors: Cullum H , Lowe A , Marshall M , Hubbard P
Published: August 2015

Six test firings of large improvised explosive devices were carried out. The principal objectives of the firings were to measure the physical effects of the explosions upon representative objects placed nearby and to recover any chemical traces deposited on these objects. The results are intended for use as an aid in determining the approximate size and type of an explosive employed in terrorist attacks. Three 454 kg charges of a mixture of calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) fertilizer and sugar, and three 2268 kg charges of a similar mixture, all confined in cylindrical steel containers were fired. Each charge was surrounded by 19 road signs mounted on posts and four vehicles, to act as witness materials. The analysis of aqueous swab extracts taken from the witness materials after firing showed the recovery of nitrate, ammonium and low levels of glucose. No sucrose was detected. Nitrate was usually recovered in greater quantities than ammonium and recovery generally decreased with increasing distance from the charges in any given direction. Quantities recovered from objects placed at the same distance in different directions varied considerably. Patterns of physical damage to the witness materials could be discerned according to their distance from the charge and the size of the charge. The velocities of detonation and air blast effects were measured.