bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Shortening of Life, Homicide, and Serial Killing—an Interdisciplinary Analysis of “Euthanasia”
Authors: Saternus K-S
Published: August 2015

Originating from a 1995 congress of forensic pathologists in Liabeck (Germany), the articles in this volume present a variegated analysis of the medical and legal, philosophical, and theological aspects of the euthanasia debate in Germany, supplemented by the experience and opinions of authors from neighboring European countries like Holland (Visser), Norway (Rognum), and Switzerland (Bär). The book contains almost 20 articles; although the texts are written in German, each article begins with a summary in English.
Simultaneous Determination of STR Polymorphism and a New Nucleotide Substitution in Its Flanking Region at the CD4 Locus
Authors: Watanabe G , Umetsu K , Yuasa I , Suzuki T
Published: August 2015

In the course of the investigation of a pentanucleotide repeat polymorphism at the human CD4 locus, a C-A transversion was found at the position corresponding to the 3′ end of the original forward primer presented by Edwards et al. (1). In the present study, the simultaneous determination of the new sequence polymorphism and the pentanucleotide repeat polymorphism at the CD4 locus was attempted. To achieve this purpose, we adopted amplified product length polymorphism (APLP) analysis and designed some new allele-specific forward primers tagged with non-complementary nucleotides differing in length. A total of 646 DNA samples from peripheral blood of Japanese, Chinese and German populations were investigated. Although the C-A transversion was restricted to CD4*5, a new subtype allele with A and 5 repeats, designated CD4*5A, was observed at polymorphic frequencies in the three populations. The simultaneous genotyping by APLP analysis resulted in dramatically increased heterozygosity and discriminating power of the human CD4 locus.
1,2-Indanediones: New Reagents for Visualizing the Amino Acid Components of Latent Prints
Authors: Hauze DB , Petrovskaia O , Taylor B , Joullié MM , Ramotowski R , Cantu AA
Published: August 2015

A new class of reagents, 1,2-indanediones, was evaluated for latent print visualization on paper. Tests were carried out for fingerprints and amino acid stains. Selected 1,2-indanediones give fluorescent development superior to DFO. Zinc salt treatment further enhances the sensitivity. The new reagents can be obtained from inexpensive starting materials in a short reaction sequence.
Analysis of Gunshot Primer Residue Collection Swabs by Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Koons RD
Published: August 2015

The concentrations of antimony, barium, and lead in gunshot residue collection swab extract solutions were determined using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry. Analytical advantages of inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry are a lack of interferences by swab extract constituents, low detection limits, wide linear dynamic ranges, short analysis times, and good precision and accuracy. This procedure is applicable to both hand blank and shooter-associated levels of antimony, barium, and lead in gunshot residue swab extracts.
Psychosocial Profile of Swiss Sexual Offenders
Authors: Curtin F , Niveau G
Published: August 2015

Background data on psychosocial characteristics of sexual offenders are sparse in Europe. From 67 experts' reports done between 1982 and 1995 in Geneva, Switzerland, demographic, criminological and psychiatric characteristics were collected for three groups of sexual offenders: offenders against adults, offenders against non-relative minors (<18 yr), and offenders against minors with incest. The results showed that the offenders against adults were younger (p = 0.02), more frequently single 9p = 0.0007) and with a lower educational level (p = 0.05) than the offenders against minors. Incest offenders had no prior conviction compared with 50% of the other offenders. Violence was more often used by offenders against adults (86%) than by offenders against minors (45%) (p = 0.005). About two-thirds of the sexual offenders had no psychiatric history, but a personality disorder (mainly borderline) was diagnosed in half of the offenders. A history of sexual abuse during childhood was reported by a third of the offenders against minors and by 5% of the offenders against adults (p = 0.04).

It is concluded that a low socio-economic status and social isolation characterized offenders against adults, whereas offenders against minors had a relatively normal psychosocial profile.
Horizontal Distance and Height Determining Falling Pattern
Authors: Shaw K-P , Hsu SY
Published: August 2015

Falling from a height, usually from a building, occurs ordinarily in suicide, in some accidents, and sometimes as an act of homicide. The point of trajectory, the horizontal distance and the impact point are closely related to the initial velocity, angle and height. This study examines the falling pattern in order to determine the mental status of the jumper as well as the manner of death. Initial velocity is found using horizontal movement and height. A serial study of athletes performing both the running jump (long jump) and standing jump (swimmer's start jump) via biomechanical methods is described. The initial velocity of the running jump and standing jump in normal athletics is 9.15 and 2.70 m/s with initial jumping angles of 21 and 38 deg, respectively. The maximal horizontal velocity of 9.15 m/s is closely related to maximal strength of initial velocity, angle of engaged force, and height. Theoretical estimation of the initial velocity between 2.70 and 9.15 m/s is correlative with the unique initial velocity and running jump to fall from a height that is closely related to the voluntary and attempted jump. Hence, the jumping victim with an initial velocity higher than 2.70 m/s implies suicide. These results indicate that horizontal distance and height are legitimate measures to use in speculating on the falling pattern and the manner of death. A unique case of suicide involving a run and jump with initial velocity greater than 2.70 m/s is illustrated.
Diagnosis of Drowning by Combined Computer-Assisted Histomorphometry of Lungs with Blood Strontium Determination
Authors: Fornes P , Pépin G , Heudes D , Lecomte D
Published: August 2015

The aim of our study was to examine the combined contribution of computer-assisted histomorphometry of lungs with blood strontium (BS) measurement to the diagnosis of drowning in cadavers recovered from fresh water. The study population comprised 116 drowned subjects. The results for this group were compared with those obtained for three non-drowned groups: 22 subjects who died from causes other than asphyxia. 13 subjects who died of asphyxia (strangulation or hanging); and 23 healthy living subjects in whom normal BS level was measured. Samples of water where the bodies had been found were analyzed in order to establish a relation with the BS concentration of the drowned subjects. Histologically, each type of pulmonary lesion (congestion, edema, alveolar macrophages, alveolar hemorrhage, and emphysema aquosum) was evaluated semiquantitatively using a score according to the severity of the pathology. Then, a quantitative histomorphometric study was performed using a computer-assisted image analyzer to measure the length and thickness of the alveolar walls, and the area and density of the alveolar cavities. The mean values of the BS levels in the 116 drowned subjects and of the water strontium concentrations were found to be much higher than in the living individuals. Although the ranges were wide, we found no overlap between values found in drowned subjects and those in non-drowned subjects. Emphysema aquosum and to a lesser extent alveolar hemorrhage were found to be the most significant histologic changes in the drowned and asphyxia groups compared with the nonasphyxia control groups.
Pathology of Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy/Dysplasia—An Autopsy Study of 20 Forensic Cases
Authors: Fornes P , Ratel S , Lecomte D
Published: August 2015

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular dysplasia/cardiomyopathy (ARVC) is characterized histologically by massive infiltration of the right ventricular wall by fat tissue, with surviving strands of cardiomyocytes bordered by or embedded in fibrosis. ARVC has been recognized as a cause of sudden death, especially in the young.

The purpose of our autopsy study was to examine the clinical characteristics and the pathological patterns in the hearts of 20 people who died suddenly of ARVC. In view of our findings and the literature, we discussed the possible causes and pathogenesis of ARVC, as well as the mechanisms by which sudden death occurs in this disease.

During the 7-year study period, 20 hearts from 9 men and 11 women fulfilled the criteria for ARVC. The mean age was 41 years (range, 17 to 80). The disease was unknown prior to death in all cases. Fourteen persons died at rest, and six on effort. In 9 of the 20 cases, the trigger of sudden death was an acute emotional stress, sometimes associated with a moderate physical activity. The mean heart weight was 380 g (range, 280 to 520). Both ventricles were involved in 40% of the cases. Inflammatory infiltrates consisting of lymphocytes were present in 60% of the cases, but myocyte necrosis was found in only one case.

ARVC is more likely to result from a degenerative process than a congenital disorder. Genetic factors, viral or autoimmune inflammation or both, and apoptosis are also involved in the degenerative disorder.
“Hidden” Laryngeal Injuries in Homicidal Strangulation: How to Detect and Interpret These Findings
Authors: Maxeiner H
Published: August 2015

These studies were designed to demonstrate that the usual method of laryngeal dissection carries a significant risk of overlooking important laryngeal injuries. Formalin-fixed hyoid-larynx complexes were prepared in a prospective forensic study involving 191 cases of homicidal strangulation, 1984 to 1997. The basic steps of the applied method included: complete resection of the thyroid cartilage, a horizontal incision through the cricoid cartilage before opening the larynx dorsally, inspection of the laryngeal joints, and incisions of the laryngeal muscles.

Using this procedure allowed us to detect the following injuries, which otherwise would have been destroyed or overlooked: (a) 17 incomplete fractures restricted to the dorsal surfaces of the thyroid laminae and 10 incomplete or non-dislocated fractures of the cricoid cartilage. In 7 cases, such a “hidden” fracture was the only laryngeal injury resulting from neck compression. (b) Extensive laryngeal muscle hemorrhages, especially of the vocal folds, were found in almost half of all cases, more rarely in strangulation by ligature and more frequently in manual strangulation. Gross hemorrhages were the decisive local laryngeal finding in 19 cases. (c) Laryngeal joint injuries (bleedings) were found in 18% to 52% of the different strangulation types. (d) Hemorrhages of the laryngeal mucosa were common findings that occur in about 60% of all cases; only in rare cases do such bleedings have a special diagnostic value.

The quantity and significance of findings obtainable from complete preparation clearly document Camps's demand made in 1976 to dispense with the usual laryngeal dissection technique (dorsal scissor incision through the cricoid cartilage), at least in (questionable) strangulation cases.
Postmortem Insect Activity May Mimic Perimortem Sexual Assault Clothing Patterns
Authors: Komar D , Beattie O
Published: August 2015

Determination of perimortem sexual assault can be confounded in homicide cases in which only badly decomposed or skeletal remains are recovered. One indicator of assault is a characteristic pattern of clothing disarray, including tearing, removal, or displacement of clothing. Preliminary findings from two studies of clothed pig carrion of approximate human size (59 to 162 kg) reveal that postmortem insect activity, particularly maggot masses, and natural decompositional changes such as bloating can produce changes to clothing which mirror those seen in cases of sexual assault.
Six Forensic Entomology Cases: Description and Commentary
Authors: Benecke M
Published: August 2015

Insects are known to be useful in estimating the postmortem interval (PMI). Here several cases are reported which show that a wide range of applications in medicolegal questions and hygiene together or apart from estimating the PMI can be answered by use of forensic entomology techniques, including close observation of larval development. Case 1 describes how blowfly larvae fell from a putrefied corpse, hid, and finally emerged from pupae three months after disinfection and renovation. In case 2, the entomological state of the decomposed corpse of a heroin user is described. Case 3 deals with a single adult Protophormia terranovae found in the skull of a partially mummified woman. Case 4 reports the finding of Serratia marcescens bacteria in red Muscina stabulans pupae which were found on a 5-day-old corpse. In case 5, blowfly eggs on the corpse of another heroin user are interpreted as an indication of the decedent being laid outside at night after his death in a flat. Case 6 deals with the finding of Parasarcophaga argyrostoma, which in Cologne might be an indicator species which tells if a corpse was lying outside at least for some time.
Prevalence of Drugs of Abuse in Urine of Drivers Involved in Road Accidents in France: A Collaborative Study
Authors: Marquet P , Delpla P-A , Kerguelen S , Bremond J , Facy F , Garnier M , Guery B , Lhermitte M , Mathé D , Pelissier A-L , Renaudeau C , Vest P , Seguela J-P
Published: August 2015

This collaborative, anonymous, case-control study was intended to determine the prevalence of opiates, cocaine metabolites, cannabinoids and amphetamines in the urine of drivers injured in road accidents and to compare these values with those of non-accident subjects (“patients”) in France. Recruitment was performed nationwide in the emergency departments of five hospitals and comprised 296 “drivers” aged 18 to 35 and 278 non-traumatic “patients” in the same age range. Females represented 28.4% of “drivers” and 44.2% of “patients.” Screening for drugs in urine was performed by fluorescence polarization immunoassays in each center. Each positive result was verified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), in a single laboratory. Statistical analysis comprised single-step logistic regression and simultaneously took account of confounding factors and the final differences in prevalence values between the two populations or different subgroups.

Cannabinoids were found in 13.9% of drivers (16.0% of males and 8.3% of females, p < 0.05) and 7.5% of patients (12.3% of males, 1.6% of females, p < 0.0001): only in females was this prevalence higher in injured drivers than in patients (p < 0.05). Opiates were present in 10.5% of drivers' and 10.4% of patients' urine samples (NS), and were more frequent in urine samples positive for cannabinoids, in drivers (p < 0.01) as well as in patients (p < 0.001). The prevalence of cocaine metabolites in drivers and patients was 1.0 and 1.1% and that of amphetamines 1.4 and 2.5%, respectively.

No causal relationship between drugs and accidents should be inferred from this retrospective study. Nevertheless, the high prevalence of cannabis and opiate (licit or illicit) use in young people, whether injured drivers or patients, has potential implications for road traffic safety in France. Cocaine and amphetamines did not appear to be a major problem, unlike the experience in other countries.
Alcoholic Ketoacidosis at Autopsy
Authors: Pounder DJ , Stevenson RJ , Taylor KK
Published: August 2015

Total ketone bodies (acetone, acetoacetate, and β-hydroxybutyrate) were measured in 105 medicolegal autopsies (71 non-alcoholics, 22 chronic alcoholics, and 12 diabetics) using a coupled enzymatic head-space gas chromatographic method. Samples included vitrcous humour, pericardial fluid, and blood from the femoral vein, inferior vena cava (IVC), superior vena cava (SVC), and aorta. Vitreous ketone levels showed good correlation with blood and pericardial fluid levels, suggesting that vitreous could be used as an alternative autopsy specimen for this analysis. This opens up the possibility of using simpler clinical laboratory methodologies which cannot be applied to autopsy blood due to hemolysis. In 71 non-alcoholics (age 18 to 96, median 67) total ketones (mM/L) were: vitreous 0.19 to 3.35, median 0.49; pericardial fluid 0.02 to 1.54, median 0.35; femoral blood 0.23 to 8.08, median 1.00; aortic blood 0.25 to 9.96, median 0.90; IVC blood 0.30 to 6.49, median 1.27; SVC blood 0.32 to 6.00, median 1.07. Eleven outliers (>2.5 mM/L in femoral blood) mostly had prolonged illness prior to death. The 22 alcoholics (age 36 to 83, median 62) included four extreme outliers with femoral blood total ketone levels of 129.9 (also diabetic), 39.4 (no anatomical cause of death), 38.5 (suicidal hanging), and 18.6 (hypothermia), suggesting that while alcoholic ketoacidosis may be a previously overlooked potential cause of death, interpretation must be guarded and made within the total case context. The other 18 alcoholics had ketone levels not statistically different from non-alcoholics, suggesting that ketoacidosis is a significant factor in at most a small minority of alcoholic deaths. Three of 12 diabetics had extreme elevations of femoral blood ketone bodies: 87.5, 20.4, and 17.4 mM/L. Measurement of ketone bodies in vitreous humour or pericardial fluid using clinical laboratory methodologies is recommended in unexplained deaths in chronic alcoholics as well as diabetics.
Drugs and Driving in Vienna, Austria
Authors: Risser D , Stichenwirth M , Klupp N , Schneider B , Stimpfl T , Vycudilik W , Bauer G
Published: August 2015

Drugs that affect the central nervous system are generally assumed to have the potential to impair driving ability. In a retrospective survey, police files and the results of toxicological urine analysis from drivers suspected of driving under the influence of drugs in Vienna from 1993 to 1996 were investigated. Decisive for police intervention was “unsafe driving” (swerving, hesitating, going too slowly, etc.), driving at high speed within the city limits, driving through red lights or stop signs, and driving at night without lights. In one-fifth of the cases drivers caused a traffic accident. Casting suspicion on driving under influence of drugs was mainly caused by impaired coordination of movements, bloodshot eyes, slurred speech, drowsiness, conspicuous behavior, and changed pupils. In the majority of the study population more than two symptoms were recorded by police. In 94% of the cases police suspicions could be confirmed by toxicological urine analysis.
A Non-Cannabinoid Immunogen Used to Elicit Antibodies with Broad Cross-Reactivity to Cannabinoid Metabolites
Authors: Salamone SJ , Bender E , Hui RA , Rosen S
Published: August 2015

A benzpyran derivative was linked to the lysines of bovine thyroglobulin (BTG) where 69% of the available lysines were modified. This derivative was designed to elicit antibodies that were directed towards the conserved epitopes of cannabinoid metabolites that appear in urine. Polyclonal antibodies from sheep and goats and murine monoclonal antibodies were generated using this immunogen. The cross-reactivity of the antibodies was compared with antibodies generated from the more traditional phenolic-linked or 9-linked immunogens. An ELISA assay was developed using Δ9-11-nor-9-carboxy-tetrahydrocannabinol (COOH-THC) to obtain a standard curve. The antibodies generated using the benzpyran immunogen showed an average of two to three times higher cross-reactivity towards 11-OH-Δ9-THC, 8β-OH-Δ9-THC, 8α-OH-Δ9-THC, 11-OH-Δ8-THC, and 8β,11-di-OH-Δ9-THC than antibodies that were generated by traditional cannabinoid immunogens. The selectivity of the benzpyran-elicited antibodies was also compared with antibodies derived from traditional immunogens using clinical urine samples that were confirmed for cannabinoids by GC/MS. The total cross-reactive cannabinoid values obtained with the benzpyran-elicited antibodies were 49% higher than the values obtained using the traditional immunogen structures. The benzpyran immunogen-induced antibodies exhibited the same low cross-reactivity for non-structurally related compounds as antibodies derived from traditional immunogens. The novel benzpyran immunogen used in this study is the first non-cannabinoid immunogen used to generate cannabinoid-selective antibodies and demonstrates the usefulness of such a structure in developing broadly cross-reactive cannabinoid antibodies.
Automobile Exhaust as a Means of Suicide: An Experimental Study with a Proposed Model
Authors: Morgen C , Schramm J , Kofoed P , Steensberg J , Theilade P
Published: August 2015

Experiments were conducted to investigate the concentration of carbon monoxide (CO) in a car cabin under suicide attempts with different vehicles and different start situations, and a mathematical model describing the concentration of CO in the cabin was constructed. Three cars were set up to donate the exhaust. The first vehicle didn't have any catalyst, the second one was equipped with a malfunctioning three-way catalyst, and the third car was equipped with a well-functioning three-way catalyst. The three different starting situations were cold, tepid and warm engine start, respectively. Measurements of the CO concentrations were made in both the cabin and in the exhaust pipe.

Lethal concentrations were measured in the cabin using all three vehicles as the donor car, including the vehicle with the well-functioning catalyst.

The model results in most cases gave a good prediction of the CO concentration in the cabin.

Four case studies of cars used for suicides were described. In each case measurements of CO were made in both the cabin and the exhaust under different starting conditions, and the mathematical model was tested on these cases. In most cases the model predictions were good.
Italian Population Data on the Polymarker System and on the Five Short Tandem Repeat Loci CSF1PO, TPOX, TH01, F13B, and vWA
Authors: Garofano L , Lago G , Vecchio C , Pizzamiglio M , Zanon C , Virgili A , Albonici L , Manzari V , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

A population study on five short tandem repeat (STR) loci and five sequence specific polymorphism loci was performed on unrelated Italian Caucasians. Separation and detection of the amplified STR fragments were carried out by high resolution vertical denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) and silver staining, respectively. The sequence specific loci were analyzed using the AmpliType PM Typing Kit (Perkin Elmer, Foster City, CA). All loci, except Gc (p = 0.031), meet Hardy-Wienberg expectations. In addition, there is no evidence for association of alleles between pairs of loci. The combined power of discrimination for the five STR loci is 0.9999862 and for the PM loci is 0.99503. The results suggest that these loci may be useful for human identification cases in Italy.
Polymorphism and Sequence Variations of the HumCD4 Pentameric Microsatellite in an Italian Population Sample
Authors: Tagliabracci A , Buscemi L , Bianchi F , Sassaroli C , Ricci U , Neri TM , Rodriguez D
Published: August 2015

A sample of 265 subjects from central Italy was analyzed at the HumCD4 locus by polymerase-chain-reaction (PCR). Phenotypes were identified by comparison with a sequenced ladder, after high-resolution horizontal polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) followed by silver staining. A set of representative alleles was sequenced by Taq-cycle-sequencing with dye terminator labeling and capillary gel electrophoresis strategies. Eight common alleles—5,6,7,8,9,10,11,12—and a rare larger 14, never before described in Caucasians, were found. Allele and genotype frequencies were similar to those described in former studies on Caucasians, with a prevalency of alleles number 5, 6, 10. Sequence analysis showed that the polymorphism is due to a pentameric TTTTC basic motif, tandemly repeated, and that from allele number 10 onwards the fourth repeat presents a T to C translation (CTTTC). Instead, allele number 9 may exist in two forms, because 75% of alleles examined in this study presented the CTTTC motif at the fourth position, while the remaining 25% had the basic repeat structure.
Identification of Tear Gases in Suspect Spray Cans and Cloth Samples by Ion Mobility Spectrometry
Authors: Allinson G , Saul C , McLeod CW , Gilbert J
Published: August 2015

A handheld ion mobility spectrometer was used to characterize the vapors produced at 50°C by the active ingredients of 20 μL samples of commercially available CN and CS tear gas sprays. After separation of the active ingredients of the sprays from their carrier gases and solvents, the spectra obtained are indistinguishable from standards, and can be used as vapor phase “fingerprints” to distinguish between these tear gas agents. The evaporative method used to separate the active ingredients from propellants and solvents was simple, but very effective in removing spectral interferences. We suggest that from the perspectives of speed of response, portability, intrinsic low detection limits, and the secondary information available from ion mobility spectra, these studies illustrate the potential of mobility spectrometry to fulfill forensic requirements for a rapid screening method for suspect spray cans and clothing.
Genetic Variation at the Short Tandem Repeat Loci HumvWA, HumFXIIIB, and HumFES/FPS in the Egyptian and Yemenian Populations
Authors: Klintschar M , Al-Hammadi N , Lux T , Reichenpfader B
Published: August 2015

The short tandem repeat systems (STRs) HumvWA, HumFXIIIB, and HumFES/FPS were amplified in a triplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood samples from 100 unrelated Yemenians and 100 unrelated Egyptians. The samples were analyzed by native horizontal discontinual electrophoresis. No deviations from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium were detected. The mean exclusion chances for Egyptians and Yemenians were 0.634 and 0.591 (vWA), 0.530 and 0.531 (FXIIIB), and 0.573 and 0.583 (FES); the discriminating powers were 0.937 and 0.924 (vWA), 0.900 and 0.899 (FXIIIB), and 0.918 and 0.921 (FES); and the observed heterozygosity rates were 0.84 and 0.72 (vWA), 0.73 and 0.83 (FXIIIB), and 0.81 and 0.80 (FES). No significant differences were found between the two Arab populations, but the differences between both Arab populations and a European population for HumFES and FXIIIB and between the Yemenian sample and a European sample for vWA were significant. No evidence of linkage disequilibrium between any of the three STRs tested was found.
TWGDAM Validation of the AmpFISTR™ Blue PCR Amplification Kit for Forensic Casework Analysis
Authors: Wallin JM , Buoncristiani MR , Lazaruk KD , Fildes N , Holt CL , Walsh PS
Published: August 2015

Studies were performed as recommended by the Technical Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (TWGDAM) committee to validate the AmpFISTR Blue PCR Amplification Kit for forensic casework applications. The kit coamplifies the tetranucleotide short tandem repeat (STR) loci D3S1358, vWA, and FGA. The dye-labeled amplification products were electrophoresed and detected directly using the ABI PRISM™ 377 DNA Sequencer or the 310 Genetic Analyzer. CEPH family studies demonstrated Mendelian inheritance of these loci and probability of identity values from population studies were 1/4,830 (African-American), 1/5,479 (U.S. Caucasian), and 1/3,443 (U.S. West Coast Hispanic). In all studies examining different body tissues and fluids, the expected genotypes were observed. Studies to determine and test the PCR reagent components and thermal cycling parameters demonstrated specificity, sensitivity, and balance over a wide range of conditions. Reliable results were obtained from DNA quantities as low as 0.25 ng. A variety of environmental studies were performed, as forensic samples are often exposed to different environmental conditions and substances which may degrade DNA or inhibit the amplification process. Highly degraded samples demonstrated that FGA was the first locus to become undetectable, followed by vWA, and then D3S1358; this is the expected pattern according to locus size. In studies of PCR inhibition, the pattern in which the loci became undetectable was different; FGA was the first locus to become undetectable, followed by D3S1358, and then vWA. Single versus multiple locus amplifications revealed no benefit to single locus analysis, even in cases of degradation or inhibition. The occurrence of preferential amplification was very rare, particularly in noncompromised, unmixed samples. Artifact peaks were not observed in any instance. Mixture studies confirmed the ability to detect mixed DNA samples and included the characterization of stutter and peak height ratios; the limit of detection was 1:10 for 1 ng total genomic DNA and 1:30 for 5 ng. DNA extracted from nonprobative case evidence was successfully amplified and genotyped. All such studies indicate that the AmpFISTR Blue PCR Amplification Kit will reproducibly yield specific and sensitive results.
The Use of Individual Extracted Ion Profiles Versus Summed Extracted Ion Profiles in Fire Debris Analysis
Authors: Gilbert MW
Published: August 2015

Mass spectrometry has become commonplace in the area of forensic fire debris analysis. The use of extracted ion chromatography can assist the fire debris analyst in distinguishing an ignitable liquid from interference due to pyrolysis or other contaminants. Often the individual extracted ion chromatograms are added together to give a profile of a specific class of compounds. Occasionally, the summed ion profile is still too complex to allow the identification of an ignitable liquid. In these instances, the individual ion profiles can be of better use. An example of the use of individual ion profiles versus summed ion profiles to identify an ignitable liquid in an actual case is presented.
Photography in Bite Mark and Patterned Injury Documentation—Part 1
Authors: Wright FD
Published: August 2015

Photography is an important means of collecting and preserving physical evidence as it relates to bite mark and patterned injuries in skin. Proper use and understanding of color, black-and-white, ultraviolet and infared photography can greatly aid the collection and preservation of evidence. The techniques and equipment for the photo-documentation of this evidence are presented.
Photography in Bite Mark and Patterned Injury Documentation—Part 2: A Case Study
Authors: Wright FD
Published: August 2015

A case involving multiple bite marks is presented. The bite marks were photographed over a 31-day period to document the injuries and preserve their evidentiary value. The evidence recovered at each photography session is discussed and photographs are presented for review. Suggestions concerning the need for more research are presented.
Dandruff as a Potential Source of DNA in Forensic Casework
Authors: Lorente M , Entrala C , Lorente JA , Alvarez JC , Villanueva E , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Dandruff is a clinical alteration of the skin that consists histologically of orthokeratotic clumps with minute parakeratotic foci found in inflammatory pathologies such as seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis. Therefore, some nucleated cells should be found in dandruff and hence there is a possibility that forensically typeable DNA could be extracted from dandruff.

Because of a particular case in which we were involved, a study was carried out to determine whether or not DNA could be extracted from dandruff, and if the two most widely used extraction techniques (Chelex and organic) would be applicable.

Results show that sufficient quantities of DNA (more than 30 to 40 ng) can be obtained from as little as 1.0 to 1.5 mg of dandruff. Both methods yield DNA, although the organic procedure seems to yield more (72.5 ng Chelex vs. 183.3 ng organic). All the DNA samples extracted were typed correctly for the loci HUMTH01 and HUMvWA.

Therefore, dandruff can be considered a potential source of DNA for forensic identification
Unexpected Death During a Brain Scintigraphy
Authors: Kairemo KJA
Published: August 2015

Brain scintigraphy was performed for differential diagnosis of suspected subdural hemorrhage in a 79-year-old woman.

Planar pertechnetate (99mTcO−4) brain scan with AP, PA, lateral and vertex projections was planned. The procedure was started with AP-projection, continuing with lateral projections. After these images the patient was determined dead and the planned scannings were aborted. There was a clear difference in the intracranial uptake (choroid plexuses) in the lateral views as well as in the uptake in the venous sinuses. The findings in the AP view were normal and no signs of subdural hemorrhage were observed. The patient died during a routine nuclear medicine procedure, and cessation of intracranial circulation was observable on 99mTcO−14 scans: the lack of uptake in cerebral sinuses confirmed the lack of intracerebral flow. In this rare case, brain death could be timed accurately using a static nuclear medicine procedure. Autopsy confirmed sudden brain circulatory disorders and general arteriosclerosis.
Unexpected Sudden Death During Propranolol Therapy in a Patient with Mild Mesenteric Venous Myointimal Hyperplasia
Authors: Bryant J
Published: August 2015

Propranolol, a beta-adrenergic blocking agent commonly used in the treatment of hypertension, decreases mesenteric blood flow during exercise, at rest, and in cirrhosis. Widespread idiopathic myointimal hyperplasia of mesenteric veins produces intestinal ischemia in otherwise healthy individuals. This report describes a 42-year-old woman who died suddenly and unexpectedly while attending a ball game. She had hypertension treated with propranolol and no other clinically apparent disorders. Autopsy revealed mild mesenteric venous myointimal hyperplasia and segmental jejunal infarction. Recent clinical and experimental studies are used to propose possible mechanisms for this death which combine the effects of propranolol and mesenteric venous myointimal hyperplasia.
The Distribution of D1S80 (pMCT118) Alleles in a Southern Italian Population Sample
Authors: Alessio A , Claudio C
Published: August 2015

A population study on the distribution of alleles for the D1S80 locus (pMCT118) was carried out on 141 unrelated and healthy blood donors from the province of Messina (Eastern Sicily). Forty-two different genotypes and 16 different alleles were observed and two of these were found to be relatively common in the sample. Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was tested using a preliminary simple chi-square method by binning in five groups and an exact test. The results demonstrated that the population was in HWE for both tests. A comparison of our data with other population studies showed that the distributions of alleles were similar.
Remarks on Behalf of the Founding Members Present at the 50th Annual Meeting, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, San Francisco CA, February 1998
Authors: Dubowski KM
Published: August 2015

Remarks on Behalf of the Founding Members Present at the 50th Annual Meeting, American Academy of Forensic Sciences, San Francisco CA, February 1998
Biological and Chemical Hazards of Forensic Skeletal Analysis
Authors: Galloway A , Snodgrass JJ
Published: August 2015

In the course of conducting forensic analysis of human skeletal material, anthropologists are exposed to a number of biological and chemical hazards. This paper reviews the primary concerns in terms of infection or exposure. Handling of human tissue provides an avenue through which bloodborne pathogens may be transported. Scene recovery also includes a set of hazards through exposure to human, animal and soil vectors. Basic personnel protection and laboratory procedures should be established for the protection of all personnel involved in this work.
Evaluation of Aspartic Acid Racemization Ratios in the Human Femur for Age Estimation
Authors: Ohtani S , Matsushima Y , Kobayashi Y , Kishi K
Published: August 2015

Levels of D-aspartic acid (D/L ratio) in cranial noncollagen proteins (acid-soluble peptide fractions) have been reported to increase with age. We isolated total amino acid fractions from the femur and separately isolated acid-insoluble collagen fraction and acid-soluble peptide fractions; then D/L ratios were measured from each fraction by gas chromatography. We evaluated the applicability of their D/L ratios for age estimation based on their correlation coefficient. A sex-related difference was observed in the D/L ratio. In particular, aged females showed a low ratio, suggesting an association with bone disorders. In males, the D/L ratios of acid-soluble peptide fraction showed the highest correlation rate (r = 0.969) with age, and those of total amino acid fraction showed the highest correlation rate (r = 0.633) with age in females. Without separation of male and female, the D/L ratios of total amino acid fraction showed the highest value (r = 0.853). The D/L ratio of acid-soluble peptide fractions differed according to the size of bone powder particles, being higher for larger particle sizes. These results suggest that the application of D/L ratio from total amino acid fraction is the most effective method for estimating age using the human femur. However, care is necessary when studing cadavers that might be females.
Identification of Race and Sex from Palate Dimensions
Authors: Burris BG , Harris EF
Published: August 2015

Measurements of the width and depth of the palate were used to predict the race (American black or white) or sex or both of an individual. The sample consisted of 332 living subjects with permanent dentitions, and measurements were made between cusp tips, so palate size includes bony and dental components. Blacks, with a more square palate, were distinguished from whites primarily by greater interpremolar widths and P1-to-M2 depths. Simultaneous prediction of race and sex had a correct classification of 48%, which is about twice that expected from chance. Pooling the two sex increases correct classification of race to 83%. Formulas also are provided for each variable separately to accommodate fragmentary remains. Resilience of palatal structures to traumatic and natural forces makes this method practical in several forensic situations.
Suicide Among Youth and Young Adults, 15 Through 24 Years of Age. A Report of 392 Cases from Paris, 1989–1996.
Authors: Lecomte D , Fornes P
Published: August 2015

The aims of our study were (1) to examine the socio-demographic, clinical characteristics, autopsy and toxicological findings in 392 youth suicides in Paris, between 1989 through 1996, and (2) to analyze the psychodynamic determinants leading up to the onset of the suicide.

During the eight-year study period 392 suicides involving young people were investigated at the Institute of Forensic Medicine of Paris. Two hundred and sixty victims (66%) were males. The mean age was 22 years in both sexes. Fifteen percent of the victims were below 20 years. Ninety-two percent of the subjects were single. Forty percent of the victims were students, 35% were unemployed. One third of the victims had previously attempted suicide. Thirty-five percent of the subjects used to take psychoactive prescription drugs and some of them had been under the care of a mental health professional at the time of the suicide. In 40% of the cases a suicide note was found near the body. Depression (70% of victims), schizophrenia, (10%), affective disorders, parent-child relational problems, partner relational problems, adolescent antisocial behavior, and borderline personality were found to be the most frequent diseases and stressors involved in the suicides. The suicide was rarely an accidental reaction to stress. It was constantly preceded by situational distress, which led to suicidal ideas if the adolescent failed to cope with problems. Ten percent were known as heroin users. In more than 40% of the cases, the victim's parents were divorced or separated. The most frequent method of suicide was poisoning followed by jumping from a height, gunshot, subway death, and hanging/asphyxia. Among firearms, a handgun was more likely to be used than rifles (85/15%). Tranquilizers were the most frequent psychoactive drugs used for suicide followed by antipsychotic drugs, antidepressants, and barbiturates (10%).
Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators and the Pathologist: Comment and Cautionary Notes
Authors: Walley VM , Bourke ME , Green M , Stinson WA , Veinot JP
Published: August 2015

This paper briefly reviews the components of, the clinical uses of, the techniques to place, and the complications related to implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs). Information useful in the specific identification of ICDs is presented. A series of recommendations for the autopsy examination or postmortem explantation of ICDs by the pathologist is given. Because of the serious risk of injury to the pathologist possible with postmortem discharges of ICDs which have not been deactivated, and because of the risk of device explosion if the ICD is incinerated, a number of cautionary notes are provided. A brief case with occurrence of accidental postmortem discharge of an active ICD is also presented.
Identification of Cocaine Analytes in Fingernail and Toenail Specimens
Authors: Garside D , Ropero-Miller JD , Goldberger BA , Hamilton WF , Maples WR
Published: August 2015

Fingernail and toenail specimens were obtained from 18 suspected cocaine users. The nails were cut, heated under methanolic reflux, and the methanolic extracts were purified by solidphase extraction. Gas chromatography/mass spectrometry was utilized for the qualitative and quantitative analysis of nine cocaine analytes. Comparison of conventional postmortem analysis of blood and urine with nail analysis revealed a marked increase in the detection of cocaine use by nail analysis. Cocaine analytes were present in 14 (82.3%) subjects utilizing nail analysis. Out of those 14 subjects, only 5 (27.7%) were positive by conventional postmortem drug analysis. Cocaine and benzoylecgonine were the predominant analytes in all positive nail specimens. Anhydroecgonine methyl ester, ecgonine methyl ester, ecgonine ethyl ester, cocaethylene, norcocaine, and norbenzoylecgonine were detected in a limited number of specimens. The ratio of cocaine to benzoylecgonine ranged from 2–10:1. These findings suggest that nails may be a useful alternative matrix for the detection of cocaine exposure.
Medicolegal Implications of Drugs and Chemicals Detected in Intracranial Hematomas
Authors: Moriya F , Hashimoto Y
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine how drug findings in intracranial hematomas should be assessed in forensic autopsy cases. Six cases in which intracranial hematomas containing drugs and chemicals were detected were examined in this study. Of the six cases, five were positive for drugs and chemicals that had been self-administered by the victims prior to injury. Posttraumatic time interval from injury to death was in the range 10 to 65 h. In two individuals who were positive for norephedrine or toluene, the concentrations of these substances were much higher in the intracranial hematomas than in heart blood. In an individual who was positive for phenobarbital, its concentration was only a little higher in the intracranial hematoma than in heart blood. In the remaining two cases, substantial quantities of ethanol were detected in the intracranial hematomas, but little ethanol was detected in heart blood.

In three cases, some drugs were administered at hospital after the injuries. The time interval from the initial drug administration to death was 19 to 60 h. In two individuals given phenytoin and/or lidocaine intravenously, substantial amounts of these drugs were detected in the intracranial hematomas. In an individual given diazepam intravenously, a substantial quantity of diazepam was detected in heart blood, but not in the intracranial hematoma.

Toxicological analysis of intracranial hematomas may be useful not only for determining whether individuals were under the influence of ethanol at the time they were injured, but also for detecting pre-traumatic usage of other drugs and chemicals. However, the medical record should be reviewed thoroughly from a toxicological view point if victims underwent medical treatment prior to death because drugs administered for the purpose of medical treatment can disseminate into preexisting intracranial hematomas, depending on the size of the hematomas.
Forensic Implications and Medical-Legal Dilemmas of Maternal Versus Fetal Rights
Authors: Mohaupt SM , Sharma KK
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this paper is to review the issue of fetal rights from primarily a legal perspective, with consideration of morals and professional ethics. The practice of medicine is fraught with numerous bioethical dilemmas. These dilemmas often leave the physician wondering if he has made the correct decision. A physician's morals and professional ethics may influence his or her decision in resolving bioethical dilemmas.

The case example is a 34-year-old female with a 41-week intrauterine pregnancy. The mother was refusing induction of labor. Without the labor induction, the fetus may die. Despite this risk, the mother desired to pursue a vaginal delivery.

The AMA's ethics state that a competent, pregnant mother's wishes should prevail and the court should not be involved unless there are unusual circumstances. The mother in the case example was competent and informed consent was provided.

Case law does not specifically address the dilemma of the case example. However, there is case law regarding court-ordered cesarean sections which reveals different opinions. The difference in court opinion encompasses the relative degree of weight given to the fetus's right to be born healthy and alive versus the mother's privacy rights. Some courts describe this “balancing test,” whereas others state that the mother's privacy rights prevail unless there are exceptional circumstances, which will be extremely rare. The fetus has acquired rights in other areas of the law; for example, abolishment of the intra-family immunity doctrine and the definition of murder in most states. In considering the legal arena of fetal versus maternal rights, a decision tree is presented to assist physicians in assessing cases of a pregnant mother refusing medical treatment.

There is no precise demarcation in assessing fetal and maternal rights. The greater the degree of fetal viability, the greater degree of fetal rights. Consideration must also be given to the relative degree of invasiveness to the mother for the proposed procedure; the more invasive, the greater degree of maternal rights. Each case must be evaluated on an individual basis and the decision tree can assist a clinician with this process.