bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Injuries to Cadavers Resulting from Experimental Rear Impact
Authors: Jones AM , Bean SP , Sweeney ES
Published: July 2015

Low-velocity rear-end collisions frequently produce relatively minor damage to vehicles and perplexing injuries to occupants. These collisions are an ever-increasing hazard, especially at intersections, at interchanges, and to occupants of parked or stalled vehicles. In 1976 20% of all motor vehicle accidents were rear-end collisions involving two vehicles, but these accidents constituted only 4% of all motor vehicle fatalities [1]. The neck is the most frequently injured portion of the body, with 10% more cervical injuries reported in females than in males [2,3].
Determination of Serum Myoglobin Level After Death in the Diagnosis of Sudden Coronary Artery Occlusion
Authors: Stefanini M
Published: July 2015

Toxicologic studies have become standard procedure in the investigation of medicolegal deaths and some biochemical parameters in the cadaver's blood may be useful in validating autopsy findings [1]. In our experience, the determination of lactic dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine phosphokinase (CPK), and glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (GOT) in serum has been useful in the evaluation of cardiac death when this occurs several hours to a few days after the occurrence of the cardiac catastrophe. However, the enzymatic cardiac parameters are of little impact when death occurs suddenly in apparently healthy individuals and acute coronary occlusion is the cause of death, since they do not show significant enough changes.
The Tympanic Plate in Forensic Discrimination Between American Blacks and Whites
Authors: Finnegan M , Schulter-Ellis FP
Published: July 2015

Skeletal material of forensic nature is often accompanied by relatively diagnostic cultural goods which can be used to infer provenience and help in the determination of race. However, when the skeletal material is recent or without associated cultural material, the racial assessment becomes more difficult. When only a cranium is recovered, one usually employs subjective criteria for determination of race. These might include prognathism, the existence of a depression posterior to the coronal suture, the relative flaring of the zygomata, or the morphology of the nasal roots. Inevitably, the cranium comes to light which does not permit a differential diagnosis of race based on such subjective assessments. The necessity for accuracy becomes most critical when the analysis is to be used for forensic purposes [1]. In such case, a quantitative tool can be of great value in the identification of a single cranium. Several multivariate approaches to this problem have been developed [2].
A Role for the Behavioral Scientist in Hostage Negotiation Incidents
Authors: Johnson TA
Published: July 2015

Brian Jenkins of the Rand Corporation has reported [1] that from 1968 to 1974 there were over 507 incidents of terrorism around the world, and, since 1968, terrorists have killed more than 520 people and wounded 830 worldwide. As shaking as these statistics are, the total amount of violence is not that large since the number of 520 people killed in an eight-year period is exceeded by the annual homicide rate of some major U.S. cities, and is far exceeded by the more than 18 000 homicides committed annually in the United States. However, what is illuminating about Jenkin's study is not solely the number of people injured or killed by terrorists, but the intricate relationship between mass media and terrorist activities. In short, terrorists attacks are often carefully choreographed to seize the interest and attention of the mass media. The abduction of hostages increases the drama, and Jenkins notes that in this sense terrorism is theater for it is aimed at people watching and not at the actual victims or hostages [1, p. 12]. Moreover, Jenkins observed that while terrorists may sometimes kill wantonly, the primary objective of the terrorist is not mass murder, since terrorists want people watching and listening to their activities and not necessarily murdered [1. p. 3]:
Detection of Seminal Fluid Constituents After Alleged Sexual Assault
Authors: Duenhoelter JH , Stone IC , Santos-Ramos R , Scott DE
Published: July 2015

Spermatozoa and prostatic acid phosphatase, identified in vaginal fluid after an alleged sexual assault, constitute important physical evidence useful in courts of law during rape trials. It has been recommended that the physician examining a victim of alleged sexual assault should promptly attempt identification of spermatozoa in a native preparation of vaginal fluid. Additionally, he should collect certain specimens that later can be evaluated in detail in a forensic pathology laboratory. The presence or absence of spermatozoa, prostatic acid phosphatase, and various blood group substances can be ascertained with a variety of laboratory methods. This study was undertaken to investigate the following items: (1) the correlation of spermatozoa detected in native preparations of vaginal fluid and of results obtained by various forensic laboratory methods; (2) the incidence of detection of seminal fluid constituents at certain time intervals following an alleged rape; and (3) the possibility that acid phosphatase detection provides additional evidence when spermatozoa cannot be identified in native or fixed preparations of vaginal fluid.
A Review of Introduction to Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice and Accompanying Student Programmed Learning Guide
Authors: Peterson JL
Published: July 2015

Introduction to Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice was originally published in 1962 and has undergone six revisions in the past 15 years, enabling the authors to keep the text up-to-date and relevant to the rapidly changing field of law enforcement. This book, with the accompanying student learning guide, is intended primarily as a text for pre- and inservice law enforcement students. Its stated purpose is to “delineate the role of law enforcement with sufficient clarity” to afford both the law enforcement practitioner and the citizen an understanding of the criminal justice system and their respective responsibilities within it.
The Discrimination Between Samples of Window Glass by Combining Physical and Chemical Techniques
Authors: Andrasko J , Maehly AC
Published: July 2015

In forensic science laboratories it is frequently necessary to compare properties of glass fragments. The forensic scientist is asked to determine if a glass fragment came from a certain automobile headlight, from a certain window, and so forth. The comparison of glass fragments by means of several physical methods is a routine operation in forensic science applications.
Enhanced Discrimination of Glass Samples by Phosphorescence Analysis
Authors: Calloway AR , Jones PF
Published: July 2015

Of the various types of physical evidence available to crime scene investigators, glass fragments are among those frequently encountered [1,2]. Forensic science examinations usually involve comparing known window glass samples with glass fragments recovered from the suspect's clothing [3]. Most crime laboratories use refractive index or density measurements, or both, to compare glass samples. As a result of modern glass production techniques, however, glass formulations are more closely controlled from batch to batch. This results in greater uniformity and reduces the value of analytical techniques that rely on differences in refractive index and density [4]. It is generally agreed, therefore, that supplementary analyses are needed.
Determination of Group Specific Component Phenotypes in Dried Bloodstains by Immunofixation on Cellulose Acetate
Authors: Zajac PL , Grunbaum BW
Published: July 2015

A rapid method is described for the determination of the genetically controlled group specific component (Gc) system. The method uses electrophoresis on cellulose acetate membranes followed by immunofixation with a specific anti-Gc antiserum. The method has been successfully applied to samples of plasma, whole blood, and dried bloodstains. Multiple specimens, up to 16 samples, can be analyzed simultaneously in a total analysis time of less than 60 min. In contrast to conventional immunoelectrophoresis on agar gel, or immunofixation on agarose or starch gel [1], this method of immunofixation on cellulose acetate is rapid, reliable, and economical.
Enzyme Typing of Human Hair Roots
Authors: Twibell J , Whitehead PH
Published: July 2015

At present there exists no reliable means of characterizing human hair. Although several attempts have been made to provide improved techniques for the examination of hair, relatively little progress has been made [1]. In the present study, the possibility of detecting isoenzymes in hair roots after electrophoresis was investigated as a means of characterizing human hair. The enzymes chosen were those for which genetically determined isoenzyme systems are well documented (phosphoglucomutase, acid phosphatase, adenosine deaminase, adenylate kinase, and esterase D) and which are easily demonstrable after starchgel electrophoresis.
Can Sudden Cardiac Death be Murder?
Authors: Davis JH
Published: July 2015

A problem faced by police, medical examiners, and prosecutors is the course of action to be pursued when a criminal act results in emotionally precipitated death in the absence of physical injury or contact. The determination of proximate causation may be difficult if there is no autopsy evidence of life-threatening physical trauma nor any historical evidence of physical contact between the victim and the assailant. The usual circumstance is a robbery or burglary during which, or shortly after, a victim collapses. The victim is usually found to be suffering from severe coronary atherosclerosis and its complications.
A Review of Analysis of Drugs of Abuse
Authors: Petty AE
Published: July 2015

This book is part of a series of monographs, compact in its makeup and designed to give the reader easy access to pertinent information concerning the analysis of drugs of abuse.
A Review of Legacies in Law and Medicine
Authors: Labowitz DI
Published: July 2015

This work is intended for use by historians as a basis for the study of the interrelationships between medicine and the law in society. To emphasize that medicine has found a structured, although different, role today, the first section deals with pre-1500 relations. These dissertations show us the place of the physician and surgeon in those times and especially the difficulties in licensing and controlling the unauthorized practice of the profession. The remainder of the book deals with medical licensure through the last century in England and the United States, medical malpractice, public health legislation, and forensic medicine.
A Review of Crime Scene Investigation
Authors: Thornton JI
Published: July 2015

Over the next few years, this text is likely to emerge as one of the best sources dealing with crime scene investigation. Although the author states that the text is written for only one audience, the crime scene investigator, the material is certain to be of interest to the criminalist, the latent fingerprint examiner, and the pathologist. In the introduction to the text, the respective roles of the crime scene investigator and the criminalist are discussed from a perspective that is more historical than philosophical, and some interesting insights into the development of operational attitudes toward crime scene investigation are offered. The seven chapters of the text comprehensively cover the equipment used in the processing of crime scenes, investigative approaches, and specific collection techniques. The most attractive feature of the text is the clarity and simplicity with which it is written. The second most attractive feature is the manner in which the book is illustrated. The illustrations are both felicitous and numerous. In the section dealing with the making of plaster casts, for example, there are a total of twelve photographs to illustrate each step in the process. The section dealing with equipment used in the collection of physical evidence is very much up-to-date and is profusely illustrated. For each type of evidence, the why is explained as well as the how, and the investigator using the text as a model need not rely on doing something by rote as opposed to doing something because of a more fundamental understanding of the process. The section dealing with photography and the sections dealing with the marking and packaging of various types of physical evidence are particularly clear and well written. In short, this is a very readable book that should be very useful to anyone responsible for any aspect of crime scene investigation.
Concentrations of Phenobarbital, Flurazepam, and Flurazepam Metabolites in Autopsy Cases
Authors: Ferrara SD , Tedeschi L , Marigo M , Castagna F
Published: July 2015

Flurazepam hydrochloride (7-chloro-1-(diethylaminoethyl)-5-(2-fluorophenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-one dihydrochloride) was synthesized in 1965 by Sternbach et al [1]. It is used clinically as a hypnotic in the treatment of anxiety and depression syndromes as well as an anticonvulsant in association with other drugs. Its pharmacology and metabolism have been extensively studied by various workers [2–4]. The toxicological features of phenobarbital (ethylphenylbarbituric acid) are also almost completely known, and this compound has been used for years as the basic drug in the treatment of various clinical forms of epilepsy.
The Application of Prefiltration to the Analysis of Acid-Degraded Gunshot Residue Swabs
Authors: Kopec RJ
Published: July 2015

The collection of gunshot residues (GSR) from a suspect's hands is a routine forensic technique widely utilized by police investigators. Presently the most widely used method for the collection and analysis of GSR samples is by swabbing the hands with dilute nitric-acid-moistened cotton swabs and determining the barium and antimony levels by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry (FAAS). These techniques of collection and analysis have acquired wide acceptance because of their low cost, uncomplicated procedures, and overall reliability when compared with alternate methods.
Sex Determination with Fragmented Skeletal Remains
Authors: Kelley MA
Published: July 2015

It is well established that the adult human pelvis offers a high degree of reliability in sexing skeletal remains. The ischiopubic index devised by Schultz [1] and tested by Washburn [2,3] and Hanna and Washburn [4] is generally reliable for 90% or more of cases tested. The ischiopubic index is derived by measuring the lengths of the pubis and ischium from a common point in the acetabulum. The success of this technique rests on the fact that, as a rule, the pubis is absolutely longer in females while the ischium is absolutely longer in males. A second and perhaps more important sexing technique elucidated by Phenice [5] is a nonmetrical method employing three features of the pubic bone. The first and generally most reliable feature is the ventral arc, followed by the subpubic concavity and, finally, the medial aspect of the inferior pubic ramus. The use of all three features gave Phenice in excess of 95% reliability in American whites and blacks. Kelley [6, 7] obtained similar results with this technique in California Indian material. In terms of time, energy, and reliability Phenice's visual sexing technique seems preferable over the ischiopubic index.
Determination of Sex by Discriminant Function Analysis of Postcranial Skeletal Measurements
Authors: Richman EA , Michel ME , Schulter-Ellis FP , Corruccini RS
Published: July 2015

Techniques for accurately determining the sex of skeletal material are invaluable to workers concerned with the identification of human remains. Well-known methods that have been employed include traditional qualitative evaluations of morphological characteristics and statistical analyses of metrical data [1–10]. Some measurements have been found to be more valuable discriminators than others, showing that sexual dimorphism differs according to the measurements [11–15].
Some Difficulties in the Gustafson Dental Age Estimations
Authors: Maples WR , Rice PM
Published: July 2015

Estimation of the age at death of an individual from dental remains is commonly practiced. Ages of mineralization, crown completion, eruption, and root completion are usually accurate and reasonably easy to determine. After these and other growth processes are completed (at approximately age 30 years), age estimation becomes more difficult. Histological changes in bones and teeth have great potential for being the best age indicators for adult life.
Identification of Mass Disaster Victims: The Swiss Identification System
Authors: Mühlemann HR , Steiner E , Brandestini M
Published: July 2015

In eleven airplane crashes between 1963 and 1974 there were 1189 victims [1]. One hundred sixty-seven victims could not be identified, 331 were identified wholly on the basis of dental evidence, and 166 other cases were identified from dental and other evidence (Table 1). With the standard methods of forensic odontology each victim who had to be identified by comparison of postmortem and antemortem dental records required, on the average, three man-hours just for the postmortem oral examination [2]. A complete set of antemortem dental records may take days to reach the identification center, may be incomplete or incorrect, or may not exist at all [3,4]. Thus a quicker and more accurate identification procedure for victims of mass disasters remains a goal of forensic science.
Verifying Identification of Military Remains: A Case Study
Authors: Warren CP
Published: July 2015

In March, 1974, the skeletal remains of 23 individuals were repatriated from Hanoi, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, and delivered to the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory in Sattahip, Thailand. According to the report of the U.S. House of Representatives Select Committee on Missing Persons in Southeast Asia [1], In 1974 the North Vietnamese returned the remains of 23 American pilots who had died in captivity. The remains were accompanied by certificates of death purporting to show the proximate cause of death, but no additional information was provided by the Vietnamese. In each of these cases the testimony of returned POW's provided sufficient information about the final days of the deceased pilots to affirm that in all likelihood they died in the manner described in the certificates of death.
Training Police Officers to Handle Suicidal Persons
Authors: Cooke G
Published: July 2015

The Center for the Administration of Justice at Temple University in Philadelphia conducts training for persons attending the police academy. Part of the crisis intervention training includes dealing with a suicidal person. Didactic material is presented on depression and suicide. Class members are then taught the technique of reflection and practice briefly with each other. The technique is demonstrated by the instructor with an actor posing as a suicidal person. Finally, some members of the class get an opportunity to use the techniques with the actor. Feedback and suggestions are given by other class members and the instructor.
A Review of Bombers and Firesetters
Authors: Bradford LW
Published: July 2015

The author, a professor of psychiatry, acknowledges contributions to the book by a bomb squad police captain and another professor of psychiatry. The book is written in a vein which will interest nontechnical readers, yet be of interest to those who want some insight into the mechanics and motivations for bombing and arson incidents. The book is laced with fragments of case histories and anecdotes derived from interviews with more than 30 bombers and more than 100 fire setters, including on-the-scene observations in Northern Ireland.
A Review of Disposition of Toxic Drugs and Chemicals in Man, Volume 1
Authors: Standefer J
Published: July 2015

This first volume of a two-volume series presents pertinent toxicological information on more than 100 drugs ranging from ethanol to nitrous oxide. The drugs are presented alphabetically within general sections. A brief review format with citations current through 1977 includes pertinent data on drug history, metabolic parameters, structure, tissue distribution, and analytical methods. In particular, plasma concentrations, drug halflife, and urinary excretion rate following low or therapeutic doses are well delineated for most drugs. This type of reference information will be especially useful for clinical toxicologists who provide interpretive assistance to clinicians. In addition, each review includes current information on postmortem blood and tissue concentrations following overdose that will assist forensic toxicologists in their evaluations of antemortem drug abuse. Although details of methods are not included in the review, the author does provide a variety of current references to published methods for each drug.
A Review of Toxicology Annual Volume 2
Authors: Byers JM
Published: July 2015

The book consists of reprints of selected papers from Volume 10 of the Journal of Clinical Toxicology. So many varied areas and approaches in toxicology are represented that no central theme is evident and the overall product is fragmented. Research approaches to small animal autopsies, XAD-2 resin for biologic specimen extraction, safety testing of fragrances, drug abuse control program support, mutagenesis, comparative toxicology, and various topics in therapeutic drug monitoring and clinical laboratory toxicology are all mixed together in an anthology of current topics in toxicology. Individually most of the papers are meritorious; as a volume they are not cohesive. One could review the Journal of Clinical Toxicology and learn the same information. This volume is a selected duplication of previously published papers with no evident format advantage over the original material.
A Review of Truth and Science, A Bibliography
Authors: Harris JJ
Published: July 2015

This is a comprehensive bibliography of books, articles, and leading news publications, published here and abroad between 1895 and 1976, covering the subject of detection of deception and polygraph techniques. Both favorable and anti-polygraph references are included. The book does not list minor news articles, brief references in texts and books, unverified foreign publications, or legal decisions relating to admissibility of polygraph evidence.
A Comparative Analysis of Cannabis Material
Authors: Coutts RT , Jones GR
Published: July 2015

It is an offense under the Narcotic Control Act of Canada for a person to have in his possession Cannabis sativa (marihuana), Cannabis resin (hashish), or any of the cannabinoid constituents of C. sativa, including cannabinol (CBN), cannabidiol (CBD), and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), unless such possession is legally authorized. Each year, thousands of Canadians are convicted under this Act; the figure for 1976 was in excess of 33 000 [1].
A Mineralogical Soil Classification Technique for the Forensic Scientist
Authors: Graves WJ
Published: July 2015

Mineral grains form the largest component of most soils. These grains are quite stable and undergo no significant change over the periods of time in which the forensic scientist is normally interested. In most naturally occurring soils, there is a large variety of different minerals whose relative proportions vary from one area to another [1,2]. These factors make the mineralogy of soils an attractive property for the forensic scientist to investigate.
The Detection of Y Chromosomes in Bloodstains—A Reevaluation
Authors: Wigmore R , Werrett DJ , King LA , Whitehead PH , Emes A
Published: July 2015

Traditional approaches to the grouping of bloodstains in forensic science involve a comparison of blood groups found in a stain with those of the suspect or victim involved in a crime. However, in some instances, such as those crimes in which no control blood samples are available, the blood grouping data alone are of little value to either the police officer or the courts. Information, however, relating to an individual's physical appearance, such as sex or age, which can be derived from a bloodstain is of value even in the absence of control blood. Such an approach to bloodstain investigation has been discussed earlier [1] and forms the philosophic basis of the present work concerned with the determination of the sex of the donor of a bloodstain.
Absorption Patterns for 32P Phosphate into Single Human and Animal Hairs
Authors: Pankhurst CA , Pate BD
Published: July 2015

Human hair has been extensively analyzed for its trace element content in various contexts. The following references are typical of work in the respective fields: toxicology [1], nutrition [2], environmental pollution [3], and forensic science [4]. The current literature on hair analysis has been reviewed by the authors [5].
Chemical Reagents for the Development of Latent Fingerprints. II: Controlled Addition of Water Vapor to Iodine Fumes—A Solution to the Aging Problem
Authors: Almog J , Sasson Y , Anati A
Published: July 2015

The iodine fuming method for the development of latent fingerprints on paper has many advantages. It is simple, fast, and inexpensive; it enables the search of relatively large surfaces in a short time without the development of background coloration; it is suitable for field work; and in case of its failure other methods can still be applied.
Sex and Race Determination of Crania by Calipers and Computer: A Test of the Giles and Elliot Discriminant Functions in 52 Forensic Science Cases
Authors: Snow CC , Hartman S , Giles E , Young FA
Published: July 2015

The sex and race of unidentified skeletons must sometimes be determined by medical examiners or crime laboratory personnel who have no formal training in physical anthropology. Their diagnoses, based on a hasty review of the chapter on skeletal identification in a forensic pathology textbook or on old lecture notes from a homicide seminar, are often wrong. Such knowledge cannot always substitute for the skilled eye and practiced judgment of a physical anthropologist who, in the course of his career, may have examined hundreds of skeletons.
Handwritten Entry Research
Authors: Foley BG
Published: July 2015

The document examiner will infrequently encounter a handwritten entry problem. When such a problem does arise, it is usually to determine if an entry is spurious. Generally, the problem is to prove that a group of diaries, logs, or similar entries were not written on several different occasions over an extended period as purported but rather were all written at the same time. Most examiners, because of the lack of experience and published reference literature dealing with such problems, find they know neither how to approach such problems nor how to develop or interpret the value of possible latent evidence. The problem as stated cannot always be answered in a satisfactory fashion, even by examiners with extensive experience. A lot of valuable information dealing with such problems, most of which was not published, has been exchanged. In many instances, the information formulated has been a direct result of examination of cases. Many of these cases did not have adequate contemporary reference diaries, logs, calendars, or similar exemplars on which to base an opinion. This is not to say that a reliable opinion on a set of questioned entries cannot be given without comparable exemplars. In many instances, the opinion rendered depends a great deal on the evidence in each case. However, the scientific process dictates that opinions concerning an unknown be based on its deviation from a compatible known or reference.
A Data-Independent Information Retrieval System: A Solution for the Small Laboratory's Computer Needs
Authors: Oakes KA , Budnick C
Published: July 2015

At some point in the development and operation of a forensic science laboratory the question of computerization will be considered. Studies on this question done several years ago provided the basis for the development of the Crime Laboratory Information Service (CLIS) program [1]. The size and organizational structures of forensic science laboratories were found to vary greatly. Nevertheless, the study revealed a need or desire for computerization to provide analytical support, to provide statistics necessary to establish the uniqueness of a sample, to store and retrieve rifling specifications, to provide bibliographic information and references, and to provide a means of exchanging various types of information with other laboratories. The study recognized two general types of computer applications currently in use: support for instrumentation and management information systems.
“Paradoxical Undressing”in Fatal Hypothermia
Authors: Wedin B , Vanggaard L , Hirvonen J
Published: July 2015

Death from exposure to cold presents one of the threats to the survival of man in arctic and subarctic regions. Yet we do not have much actual knowledge of the clinical events leading to fatal hypothermia. Apart from the experiments performed by the Nazis at the Dachau concentration camp [1] most of our knowledge has to be gathered from such sources as memoirs, historical accounts, police reports, and hospital files.
Examination of Line Crossings by Scanning Electron Microscopy
Authors: Waeschle PA
Published: July 2015

A document examiner is often faced with determining the age of certain writing, whether done by ball-point pen, pencil, ink, typewriter, or something else; the problem is almost unsolvable because no method exists that yields reliable and direct results. Ways and means have often to be found that permit an indirect determination. One of the most important factors in this connection is the investigation of line crossings. If the writing sequence of two crossing lines can be determined, it is then possible to estimate accurately the age of one writing characteristic in relation to the other. For instance, the frequently posed question as to whether a signature on a contract was made before or after the text was written can be answered.
A Simple Method for Preparing Human Skeletal Material for Forensic Examination
Authors: Stephens BG
Published: July 2015

The examination of partially or totally decomposed bodies that may have skeletal changes or injuries of potential evidentiary value is a common problem faced by forensic scientists. In many such cases, thorough cleaning of the bone may be required for the examination, understanding, interpretation, and documentation of the injuries as well as for obtaining quality photographic evidence for presentation to a jury. Unfortunately, thorough cleaning of the bone is often not performed because of the time-consuming nature of the preparatory work, the cost, and the necessity of maintaining insect colonies.
A Review of A Color Atlas of Neuropathology
Authors: Peterson G
Published: July 2015

Neuropathology has long been an intimidating subdivision of anatomic pathology. Eponymous diseases (diagnosed by esoteric stains) seem to comprise an uncomfortable segment of the subspecialty, and yet a significant percentage of a forensic pathologist's cases involve neuropathologic conditions. C. S. Treip has added another volume to the Color Atlas series, and the result is a compact but surprisingly useful handbook. It makes a welcome complement to Fascicle 6 of the Tumor Pathology Series by covering, in addition to neoplasia, infectious and inflammatory disease, vascular disease, degenerative and demyelinating diseases, metabolic disorders, nutritional deficiencies, congenital malformations, and perinatal disorders. Also included is a section on traumatic lesions that is, unfortunately, very brief.
Detection of Drugs Using XAD-2 Resin. I: Choice of Resin, Chromatographic Conditions, and Recovery Studies
Authors: Stajić M , Caplan YH , Backer RC
Published: July 2015

In 1969 Fujimoto and Wang [1] introduced a new drug extraction technique when they applied Amberlite®XAD-2 a nonionic polystyrene divinylbenzene resin, to the analysis of narcotic analgesics in urine. The resin was prepared by washing it with water and methanol, and after the urine sample was poured through a column containing the resin the adsorbed drugs were eluted with methanol and subsequently analyzed by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). Morphine, meperidine, codeine, methadone, levorphanol, pentazocine, and dihydromorphinone were detected in therapeutic concentrations. Many modifications of the original procedure successfully applied XAD-2 and other similar resins to the extraction of drugs from urine and, more recently, other biological fluids and tissues.
Detection of Drugs Using XAD-2 Resin. III: A Routine Screening Procedure for Bile
Authors: Caplan YH , Backer RC , Stajić M , Thompson BC
Published: July 2015

A number of biological specimens may be routinely examined in medical examiner's cases. A useful specimen for toxicologic analysis is one that by its physiological nature concentrates drugs in easily detectable amounts, is readily available in sufficient quantity, does not require extensive preparation, and is applicable to simple screening techniques. Urine has been particularly amenable to XAD-2 resin screening [1–11]. However, in postmortem cases urine is often unavailable and bile becomes the sample of choice. Simple hydrolysis alters the consistency of bile so that it can be readily extracted by the XAD-2 resin methods [12,13]. In addition, the disposition and biotransformation of many drugs causes significant quantities of parent drugs and metabolites to be found in bile, often in concentrations higher than those in other biological specimens.
Toxicological Analyses in Cases of Sudden Infant Death: A National Feasibility Study
Authors: Finkle BS , McCloskey KL , Kopjak L , Carroll JM
Published: July 2015

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is associated with more infant deaths, ages two weeks to twelve months, in the United States than any other single, definable cause. It is associated with approximately 10 000 deaths per year and is second only to the general category of accidental deaths for all children under the age of 15 years [1]. Unlike many disease entities, the diagnosis of SIDS is made not by an attending physician, but at postmortem examination; the determination is based not on firm definitive findings, but only on the exclusion of all other possible causes. Indeed, very few histological, biochemical, or physiological changes that might be considered pathologically diagnostic in these infants have been observed [1,2]. Although SIDS-associated deaths represent a major proportion of all infant fatalities, their frequency is such that even in jurisdictions of greater than one million population medical examiners and coroners encounter relatively few of these cases, typically 40 to 60 cases a year [2]. In an attempt to overcome the limitation of the small number of SIDS cases available for study in any one area, the Office for Maternal and Child Health, Department of Health, Education, and Welfare, is studying the feasibility of a national SIDS registry [2]. Such a registry could draw on the case experiences of many investigators so that statistically valid correlations and conclusions would be possible; both biomedical and sociological information, drawn from a variety of sources, could be gathered and analyzed. To establish such a data center, it would also be necessary to have strong guidelines specifically designed to control the quality of the data and the methods used in their collection. The formulation of a standard protocol for the investigation of sudden infant deaths that could be used at all sites contributing information would be a first essential task.
The Rapid Determination of Cocaine and Other Local Anesthetics Using Field Tests and Chromatography
Authors: Baker PB , Gough TA
Published: July 2015

Cocaine, which is obtained from the leaves of plants of the genus Erythroxylon, either directly or by chemical transformation, has been used throughout recorded history because of its local anesthetic activity [1]. As a result of its undesirable side effects its use is now controlled almost worldwide. The search for alternative compounds having topical or local anesthetic properties without the inherent disadvantage in using cocaine resulted in the synthesis of a number of satisfactory alternatives to cocaine.
Analysis and Characterization of Military-Grade Trinitrotoluene by Gas Chromatography
Authors: Basch A , Kraus S
Published: July 2015

Military grade trinitrotoluene (TNT), manufactured by complex nitration and purification procedures [1], contains over 99% α-2,4,6-trinitrotoluene and trace amounts of precursors, isomers, and oxidation by-products. The detection and determination of TNT and other explosives by gas chromatography (GC) has been reported by a number of authors and summarized in a recent review [2]. Impurities in TNT have been identified by thin-layer chromatography [3], nuclear magnetic resonance [4], and GC [5–7]. The major impurities in commercial TNT were found to be 2,4-dinitrotoluene (DNT); 2,3,4-TNT; 2,3,5-TNT; and 2,4,5-TNT in reported concentrations of 0.1 to 0.4%, with traces of other DNT isomers detected. A novel method for characterizing TNT origins by means by variation in 13C/12C ratios has been reported [8].
A New Development in Graphic Transfer Material and an Illustration of Its Illegal Use
Authors: Kraemer JI
Published: July 2015

Many document examiners are familiar with the graphic arts process commonly referred to as dry transfer lettering. In this system letters or other symbols are removed from a carrier sheet and pressed onto another medium, such as paper, through the use of a blunt burnishing tool or stylus.
Educating the Forensic Psychiatrist
Authors: Dietz PE
Published: July 2015

Historically, the forensic psychiatrist has been a physician with a special interest in medicolegal aspects of psychiatry, sometimes but not necessarily supplemented by individual study, specialized training, and appropriate experience. Even today, any physician is free to declare himself a forensic psychiatrist and to deliver forensic psychiatric services with no specialized training or supervision, though few non-psychiatrists would do so, and most psychiatrists would at least read a few books on what they believe to be the subject.
A Tribute to the French Forensic Anthropologist Georges Fully (1926–1973)
Authors: Stewart TD
Published: July 2015

Five years ago, when Clyde Snow read a paper at the Dallas meeting of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences on the Fully-Pineau method of stature estimation [1], none of those present was aware that Georges Fully had been dead for eight months. His death was still unknown to those at last year's Academy meeting in St. Louis who heard Gary Tibbetts talk about the application of the Fully-Pineau method of stature estimation to American blacks [2]. I received the sad news of Fully's death in a letter from Professor Georges Olivier of the University of Paris a month after the St. Louis meeting, and did not learn about the tragic circumstances of the event until last June, almost exactly five years after their occurrence. At the time of his death Fully was only 47 years old.
Sex Offenders: A Descriptive Analysis of Cases Studied at a Forensic Psychiatry Clinic
Authors: Bonheur H , Rosner R
Published: July 2015

This is a report on a descriptive study made of defendants charged with at least one count of sexual assault who were examined at the Forensic Psychiatry Clinic of the Supreme Court of the State of New York for the Borough of Manhattan during the calendar year 1974.
Caffeine Poisoning in a 19-Year-Old Female
Authors: McGee MB
Published: July 2015

A case report is given of a fatality resulting from caffeine intoxication associated with ingestion of an over-the-counter appetite suppressant. Caffeine is one of the drugs most readily available to the general public. Present in many beverages and over-the-counter compounds, caffeine has a relatively low toxicity. Fatalities from caffeine intoxication are rare, with seven cases previously reported in the English language literature.
The Glaser Safety Slug and the Velex/Velet Exploding Bullet
Authors: Menzies RC , Anderson LE
Published: July 2015

The Glaser Safety Slug and the Velex/Velet Exploding Bullet are both designed to fragment on impact with their targets. Recognition of these rounds after firing is possible by the use of roentgenography and wound tract examination, and the characteristic appearances are described and illustrated. Despite the degree of physical disruption of the bullets recovery of the copper jackets will permit useful comparison microscope examination. In the case of the Velex/Velet Exploding Bullet recovery of the percussion cap may also provide useful information.
Light Filaments of Incandescent Lamps Studied by Auger Electron Spectroscopy
Authors: Hagström AL , Söder S
Published: July 2015

The use of Auger electron spectroscopy as a method in forensic science investigations of fractured incandescent lamps is described. Special emphasis is given to the oxidation of the tungsten filament. The method makes possible an identification of filaments that have been fractured under various conditions.
Laser Detection of Latent Fingerprints: Preparation of Fluorescent Dusting Powders and the Feasibility of a Portable System
Authors: Menzel ER , Fox KE
Published: July 2015

A simple procedure for the preparation of dusting powders with a variety of fluorescent colors is described. Such powders permit detection of latent prints by laser even when the surfaces holding the latent prints luminesce strongly. A possible portable laser detection system is also suggested.
Individuation in Forensic Science Study: Decapitation
Authors: Buikstra JE , Gordon CC
Published: July 2015

In this study we present a technique that may be useful in the individuation of remains separated through the cervical region. Using a series of measurements from young female skeletons in the Terry Collection, we have developed a model for testing congruence between adjacent elements. Emphasis has been placed on identifying those measurements most likely to minimize underestimating the true number of remains present. The use of the technique has been demonstrated in two (retrospective) forensic science examples.
The Investigation of Electrical Deaths: A Report of 220 Fatalities
Authors: Wright RK , Davis JH
Published: July 2015

We present the results of our investigation of 220 electrocutions. The ratio of high voltage to low voltage electrocution is found to be nearly 1:1. Further, in low voltage electrocution deaths electrical burns were absent in over 40% of the cases. Our approach to the investigation of possible electrocution, including equipment analysis, is discussed.
Shotgun Wounds: Multiple Probes and Shielding Effects as Adjuncts to Determining Position of the Deceased at Time of Injury
Authors: Brissie RM , Collum ES
Published: July 2015

Careful and meticulous probing of sites of individual pellet injuries in distant shotgun wounds with repositioning of the body to allow parallel alignment of pellet tracts makes possible the determination of the position of a deceased at time of injury. Spared areas, or “gaps,” within the pattern may result from shielding either by body parts or by an intermediate object. The present case reports illustrate the method and its importance.
On the Mechanism of Gunshot Residue Particle Formation
Authors: Wolten GM , Nesbitt RS
Published: July 2015

The results of the present study are consistent with the hypothesis that gunshot residue is formed by the condensation of vaporized bullet and primer materials that segregate into metallic and compound particles. Some of the metallic vapors are oxidized and “scavenged” by oxygen and sulfur-rich primer compounds, among which the sulfur compounds appear to be more effective. The “bullet” particles of the residue thus originate in the bullet material, and the “primer” particles are a mixture of primer-derived and bullet-derived materials.
A Study of the Myocardial Depressant Factor and Its Relative Influence in Drug/Alcohol Mortality
Authors: Manning TJ , Williams LE , Lynch VD , Bidanset JH , Drake W , Lukash L
Published: July 2015

A shock factor, a low molecular weight peptide, has been isolated from postmortem blood. High levels of this peptide, which depresses the myocardium, were seen in cases where drug overdose or alcoholism, or both, were the cause of death. An elevated myocardial depressant factor (MDF) level was also demonstrated in a fire victim and a patient in cardiogenic shock. The peptide analysis was accomplished by using an isolated cat papillary muscle followed by paper chromatographic confirmation. Postmortem electrolytes, alcohol, and various toxic agents were eliminated as causes of myocardial depression in the isolated cat papillary muscle assay. The presence of elevated MDF levels may be significant in the overall death process.
Examination of Petroleum Products of High Relative Molecular Mass for Forensic Science Purposes by Synchronous Fluorescence Spectroscopy. I1: Discrimination Within an Arbitrary Set of Representative Samples
Authors: Lloyd JBF , Evett LW , Dubery JM
Published: July 2015

Synchronous fluorescence and ultraviolet absorbance spectroscopy are used in the examination of a collection of high relative molecular mass petroleum products that contains 118 samples drawn from forensic science work. Data from 22 defined spectral features of each sample are processed to show that within this sample set, and with a considerable reduction in the data finally used, the spectral patterns can be efficiently retrieved with a high level of sample discrimination and with an accompanying low level of spurious choices. The system gives results in good agreement with earlier conclusions drawn from case work on the basis of visual comparisons of spectral patterns of control samples and contact traces and will enable future evidential data to be more efficiently collected and its significance to be more precisely assessed.
Connecting a Knife or Ice Pick to a Tire in a Tire Slashing
Authors: Feldman MA , Meloan CE , Frizell C
Published: July 2015

Small particles of rubber cling to the metal object used to slash a tire. These particles are removed by a glass capillary tube and forced out of the capillary with water onto the top of a zinc chloride density gradient column. Automobile tire sidewall rubber varies in density from about 1.06 to 1.17, small truck tires vary from 1.13 to 1.17, and the value for large truck tires is about 1.2. Other rubbers and other objects all have densities different from sidewall rubber with the exception of a few synthetic fibers that can visually be distinguished from rubber.
The Application of Tetracyclines in Forensic Dentistry
Authors: Metzger Z , Buchner A
Published: July 2015

Therapeutic administration of tetracyclines, widely used antibiotic drugs, permanently labels layers of dentin that are calcifying at the same time. A method is described for detecting and photographing these stained layers of dentin. The presence of tetracycline-labeled dentin layers in the teeth of subjects of a forensic science investigation can be used for the individualization of specimens as well as to provide information about the age of the individual. When compared to medical records, the tetracycline-labeled dentin layers can also assist in establishing the identity of the subject. The interpretation of tetracycline-labeled dentin layers and its pitfalls are discussed.
A Method for Recording X-Ray Diffraction Patterns for Trace Quantities of Crystalline Materials
Authors: Foster RL , Howell GR , Lott PF
Published: July 2015

A procedure has been developed for recording diffraction patterns of small amounts of material and has been applied to the identification of silicon carbide in lubricating oil. To use this technique for the identification of material, the sample must be crystalline and the constituent of interest must be present in 1% or greater concentration.