bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interobserver Variation of Selected Postcranial Skeletal Measurements
Authors: Adams BJ , Byrd JE
Published: August 2015

Osteometric data are of great importance for analytical purposes in the field of forensic anthropology, and it is critical that interobserver concordance is high in order for the results of these analyses to be reliable. Significant interobserver variation of skeletal measurements is cause for concern since it may result in conflicting conclusions. The range of interobserver variation of selected postcranial measurements is addressed. Thirteen standard measurements familiar to most forensic anthropologists were examined, as well as nine nonstandard measurements that were unfamiliar to most participants in the study. Sixty-eight individuals participated in the study, the majority of whom considered themselves to be forensic anthropologists with various levels of experience. In general, interobserver variation of the tested standard postcranial measurements was found to be minimal, with the exception of pubis length and subtrochanteric femur measurements. The difficulties that can lead to measurement error are discussed and possible solutions are recommended.
Reduced Volume PCR Amplification Reactions Using the AmpFlSTR® Profiler Plus™ Kit
Authors: Gaines ML , Wojtkiewicz PW , Valentine JA , Brown CL
Published: August 2015

The forensic community continues to seek improvements in DNA typing methods on aspects such as sensitivity and efficacy. Reducing the volume of the AmpF_STR® Profiler Plus™ reagents offered greater sensitivity and improved the chance of obtaining useful results for samples with very low quantities of DNA and multiple source samples. On the downside, amplifications initiated with less than 0.4 ng of DNA exhibited a twofold increase in the standard deviation of peak ratios.

This research suggested a twofold approach to analyzing samples. For samples with greater than 0.25 ng of DNA, a 25 μL reaction is appropriate. Samples that did not demonstrate quantifiable results, or that have less than 0.25 ng, can be amplified by drying the sample directly in the PCR tube and amplifying in a 5 μL reaction. The analyst can expect at least limited results with as little as 0.03 ng of DNA in the 5 μL reaction.
A Quantitative Comparison of Smokeless Powder Measurements
Authors: MacCrehan WA , Reardon MR , Duewer DL
Published: August 2015

Measurements of the type and concentration of propellant and stabilizer additives in smokeless gunpowder are used by forensic scientists investigating the source of explosives and by military laboratories assuring the safety and efficacy of munitions. The National Institute of Standards and Technology recently assessed the state-of-the-practice of smokeless powder measurements through an international measurement comparison exercise. We here present results provided by the five participants (of 20 total) reporting quantitative as well as qualitative values for two handgun reloading powders. All five of these participants reported values for nitroglycerin (NG), ethyl centralite (EC), diphenylamine (DPA), and N-nitrosodiphenylamine (NnDPA). Several participants additionally reported the concentrations of secondary stabilizer decomposition products. The unstable NG propellant additive appears to be more susceptible to method-specific calibration biases then are the stabilizer additives. All results from one participant were strongly biased relative to those of the other four. The within-participant measurement uncertainties for all analytes were self-reported to be 1 to 5% relative; among the four concordant participants, the measurement ranges are 5 to 10% relative. There was little consistency among the participants as to what components of measurement variance were included in their uncertainty statements. A discussion of the certainties in these measurements and factors that affect the accuracy of gunpowder additive determinations is presented.
Does Ink Age Inside of a Pen Cartridge?
Authors: Grim DM , Siegel J , Allison J
Published: August 2015

In questioned document examination and ink dating, it has been assumed that the ink inside of a pen cartridge does not begin aging until the ink is dispensed onto paper. Positive ion laser desorption (LD) mass spectra were obtained of ink-on-paper samples containing methyl violet, from new and old pens. Mass spectral studies with methyl violet have established the mechanism for how the dye degrades over time, and have provided structural information concerning the dye's degradation products. This information was used as an indication of the relative age of ink on paper. The LD mass spectrum of the ink from a new pen was indicative of “new” ink, whereas the spectra of the ink found in some older pens may appear to be either new or old. The ink from most of the old pens studied appears not to have aged, supporting the common assumption, whereas other ink samples produced “aged” ink spectra, suggesting otherwise.
Gunshot Location Through Recorded Sound: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Pregliasco RG , Martinez EN
Published: August 2015

Using a video tape and three still photographs, we analyze recorded sound to attribute authorship in a fatal shooting incident.

We measure the acoustic signature of the scene with four test detonations, and we discuss two methods of processing putative echoes in the audio band of the video. They allow us to locate 11 out of 17 shots, with a precision of 0.4 1.0 m 2 .

Combining the location of the shots with the known positions of the participants, we arrive at the clear attribution of eight shots; three other shots (among which is the fatal one) probably issue from the same shooter, who remains unidentified within a small group of men. Our results lead to the exculpation of the main suspect.

We analyze the statistical significance of the results, use Monte Carlo simulations to set an upper bound to the probability of false positives, and discuss areas of improvement of the method.
The Crash of LOT Flight 007: Dental Identification
Authors: Brannon RB , Morlang WM
Published: August 2015

The authors record the contribution of dentistry to the identification of American victims of one of the most significant aircraft tragedies involving American athletes-the March 1980 crash of a Soviet-made Ilyushin 62 Polish jetliner and the deaths of 31 Americans including a 22-member U.S. amateur boxing team with several U.S. Olympic team candidates. Preparedness was a factor in the dental team's ability to re-solve many notable and unexpected problems. Jurisdictional restraints that Polish authorities imposed on the U.S. investigative team hindered its efforts to identify American passengers. The team used dental and fingerprint methods of identification whenever possible and obtained further evidence from anthropologic methods, visual recognition, and personal effects. Dental readiness, organization, methodology, and lessons learned are documented in this paper.
Charred Body: Virtual Autopsy with Multi-slice Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Thali MJ , Yen K , Plattner T , Schweitzer W , Vock P , Ozdoba C , Dirnhofer R
Published: August 2015

The correct examination of a charred body is a forensic challenge. Examination, interpretation, and conclusion in respect to identification, vital reactions, toxicological analysis, and determining cause and manner of death are all more difficult than without burns. To evaluate what can be seen in the case of a charred body, we made an examination with the new radiological modalities of cross-section techniques, via multi-slice Computed Tomography (MSCT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), prior to performing the classical forensic autopsy. In a charred body case of a single motor vehicle/fixed object collision with a post crash fire, the radiological methods of MSCT and MRI made it possible to document the injuries caused by burn as well as the forensic relevant vital reactions (air embolism and blood aspiration). In conclusion, we think postmortem imaging is a good forensic visualization tool with a great potential for the forensic documentation and examination of charred bodies.
Mitochondrial DNA Sequencing of Beetle Larvae (Nitidulidae: Omosita) Recovered From Human Bone
Authors: DiZinno JA , Lord WD , Collins-Morton MB , Wilson MR , Goff ML
Published: August 2015

The isolation, amplification, and characterization of human DNA from hematophagous (blood feeding) and necrophagous (carrion feeding) arthropods have been advanced significantly by the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA sequencing methodologies. Historically, DNA technology has been successfully utilized to identify individual hosts upon which species of hematophagous arthropods have fed. The analysis of hematophagous insects' gut content blood meals has led to major advances in medical entomology and vector-borne disease epidemiology. In the forensic arena, the ability to apply similar techniques to insects recovered from badly decomposed remains has been greatly enhanced through the advent of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) techniques. Mitochondrial DNA analyses have been utilized to identify both the human remains upon which fly larvae (maggots) have fed and the species of the larvae themselves. The preliminary work detailed here demonstrates, for the first time, the successful application of mtDNA sequencing techniques to the analysis of necrophagous beetle larvae. A small sample of sap beetle larvae, Omosita spp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), was collected from human skeletal remains during anthropological examination and analyzed for human DNA using mtDNA sequencing. The beetle larvae yielded mtDNA matching that of the host human bone. The results detailed here further demonstrate the robust nature of human mtDNA and the ability to recover valuable mtDNA evidence from forensically important, late decompositional stage insect species.
Fatal Accidental Hanging from a Lanyard Key Chain in a 10- Year-Old Boy
Authors: Denton JS
Published: August 2015

Lanyard chains are commonly worn around the neck to hold keys and identification badges. A ten-year-old Black male child was home alone jumping and swinging of the raised crossbars on his mother's four-poster bed. He commonly did this. He also wore a lanyard around his neck with his house key, which he used to let himself in after school. His mother found him hanging on the corner of the bedpost by the lanyard when she returned from work. The death scene showed that he was jumping on the bed and the lanyard hooked over the top of the corner bedpost, causing first and second cervical vertebrae dislocation of an abrupt “drop-type” hanging with neck abrasion marks. Lanyards, or any loose rope material around the neck, are inherently dangerous due to their strength and ability to catch fixed or moving objects. Safety modifications to the lanyards are easily made with “breakaway” Velcro-type or plastic clip fasteners. This is the first reported case of an accidental hanging after review of the medical literature and files of the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.
Psychological Autopsies: The Current Department of Defense Effort to Standardize Training and Quality Assurance
Authors: Ritchie EC , Gelles MG
Published: August 2015

Psychological autopsies have been gathered by the US military for a long time, both for lessons learned after a known suicide and to investigate an equivocal death. The term “psychological autopsies” is now being restricted to define an investigation by mental health to help determine, in an equivocal death, if the manner of death is a homicide, suicide, an accident, or from natural causes. The Department of Defense has developed policy, and is now implementing training and peer review. A sample model curriculum, report format and quality assurance standards are included.
HbA1c as a Postmortem Tool to Identify Glycemic Control
Authors: Winecker RE , Hammett-Stabler CA , Chapman JF , Ropero-Miller JD
Published: August 2015

Estimates suggest that more than 5.4 million U.S. citizens unknowingly have diabetes and are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. We evaluated an immunoturbidimetric measurement of glycated hemoglobin (%HbA1c) as a postmortem tool to identify such individuals. Although postmortem samples undergo some degradation, the effects are not sufficient to invalidate the use of the test or method. Using two study populations whose medical history of diabetes was known, we found the mean %HbA1c of the non-diabetics (5.8 ± 0.3) to be statistically different from that of the diabetics (12.4 ± 2.8). For the population whose disease status was unknown, the %HbA1c ranged from 4.7 to 16.8. For six unknowns whose values exceeded 7.0%, the mean was 11.7%, which did not differ statistically from the diabetic mean (p = 0.6615). These studies suggest that postmortem blood samples can be used to characterize HbA1c values.
Estimation of Blood Alcohol Concentrations after Social Drinking
Authors: Stowell AR , Stowell LI
Published: August 2015

Requests for estimates of blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) are often made when blood samples are taken some hours after the time of interest. Many believe that such estimates are not reliable because the subject's alcohol clearance rate is never known and often there is uncertainty as to whether the subject was postabsorptive at the time in question.

In order to evaluate the potential errors associated with BAC estimates under these non-ideal conditions, BAC estimates were compared with empirical data obtained from 24 healthy males, ranging in age from 22 to 56 years, who took part in a three hour social drinking session. One blood sample for alcohol analysis was taken from each subject approximately 1 hour after drinking stopped and another was taken approximately 3.5 hours after drinking stopped.

Estimations of BACs at the blood sampling time points were made assuming each person had a constant blood alcohol clearance rate in the range of 10 to 20 mg/dL/h (0.01 to 0.02 g/dL/h) over the whole of the experimental period. A variety of methods were used to estimate the volume of distribution for alcohol. All BAC estimations were made assuming complete absorption and full equilibration of the total alcohol dose.

The results showed that actual BACs were usually within or very close to the range of “forward” estimates based on the known alcohol doses. Furthermore, most BACs measured about an hour after cessation of drinking were within or very close to the predicted range based on back extrapolation from the actual 3.5 hour BAC result.
A Comparison of ONTRAK TESTCUP™, Abuscreen ONTRAK®, Abuscreen ONLINE®, and GC/MS Urinalysis Test Results
Authors: Crouch DJ , Cheever ML , Andrenyak DM , Kuntz DJ , Loughmiller DL
Published: August 2015

This study was designed to compare results obtained from two separate on-site drug testing kits (ONTRAK TESTCUP and Abuscreen ONTRAK) with those obtained from laboratory based immunoassay and GC/MS. Abuscreen ONLINE immunoassay was used to select 250 negative samples and 100 presumptive-positive samples each for cocaine/metabolites, opiates and cannabinoids. Presumptive-positive samples were selected if the immunoassay response was ⩾300 ng/mL for cocaine/metabolites (BZE), ⩾300 ng/mL for opiates or ⩾50 ng/mL for cannabinoids (THC-COOH). GC/MS was used to confirm that each selected sample contained ⩾150 ng/mL BZE, ⩾300 ng/mL morphine/codeine or ⩾15 ng/mL THC-COOH.

TESTCUP results had a 100% agreement with GC/MS and a >99% agreement with ONLINE when testing negative samples. The agreement between TESTCUP and ONLINE results for samples containing opiates was 100%. Results of testing samples containing BZE with TESTCUP demonstrated a 98% agreement with both GC/MS and ONLINE. Both discrepant samples contained BZE at concentrations ⩽300 ng/mL. The least agreement between TESTCUP and ONLINE results was found when testing samples containing THC-COOH. The agreement with ONLINE and GC/MS was 92% and all discrepant samples had GC/MS determined THC-COOH concentrations less than 50 ng/mL. A 100% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded TESTCUP results for QC samples fortified to contained BZE, morphine or THC-COOH at concentrations within 120% of the screening cutoffs.

ONTRAK had a 100% agreement with both GC/MS and ONLINE when testing negative samples and samples that contained opiates. ONTRAK had a 91% agreement with GC/MS and ONLINE for testing of samples that contained BZE. The least agreement between ONTRAK and ONLINE results was found when testing samples that contained THC-COOH. The agreement was 89%, however, all discrepant samples contained GC/MS concentrations of THC-COOH less that the 50 ng/mL cutoff. With ONTRAK, a 100% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded results on QC samples that contained morphine or THC-COOH and a 97.7% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded results on QC samples that contained BZE.
Relating Cocaine Blood Concentrations to Toxicity—an Autopsy Study of 99 Cases
Authors: Karch SB , Stephens B , Ho C-H
Published: August 2015

We conducted a retrospective study of 48 men with cocaine-related deaths (CTOX), and a control group of 51 male cocaine users who died of lethal trauma (TRAU). Regression analysis and multiple t-tests were used to assess the relationship between cocaine and benzoylecgonine concentrations as well as autopsy measurements. Findings: Mean age was similar (35.9 vs 34.8 years, p = .549). Cocaine blood concentrations were not significantly different (1.12 vs .487 mg/L, p = .10), but mean BE concentrations were higher in CTOX (1.54 vs .946 mg/L, p = .018). CTOX decedents had a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) (24.6 vs 30.6, p = <.0001), larger hearts (426 vs 369, p = .009), and heavier lungs, livers, and spleens (1275 g vs 1007 g, p = .009, 1896 g vs 1628 g, p = .008, 193 g vs 146 g, p = .001). Conclusions: (1) Blood cocaine concentrations in cocaine-related deaths are indistinguishable from postmortem concentrations in recreational users, but BE is higher in cocaine-related deaths. (2) Increased lung, liver and spleen weights are consistent with cocaine induced heart failure, but (3) Decreased BMI and increased heart weights in CTOX must be a consequence of long term cocaine use. Cardiac alterations may explain why equal blood cocaine concentrations may be lethal in some cases and innocuous in others, (4) Isolated measurements of postmortem cocaine and BE blood concentrations cannot be used to assess, or predict toxicity.
Forensic Archeology and the Need for Flexible Excavation Strategies: A Case Study
Authors: Hoshower LM
Published: August 2015

Anthropologists from the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii (CILHI) are routinely confronted with challenging situations when searching for the remains of American servicemen lost in armed conflicts. All CILHI anthropologists are well-versed and experienced in “textbook” archeological methods. As such, standard excavation techniques and procedures are the foundation for every CILHI recovery. Yet, the inherent nature of the CILHI missions prescribe excavation strategies that depart from those regularly presented in archeology textbooks. The unique nature and grand scale of the CILHI missions; environmental, physical, and geographic hazards; the salvage nature of the missions; time and budget constraints; and the inherent politically and emotionally charged atmospheres of the missions necessitate flexible excavation methods. For example, many CILHI recovery operations in Southeast Asia are excavations of large craters created by the impact of high-speed military aircraft in remote, unpopulated locales. In addition to rugged and dangerous terrain, an abundance of unexploded ordnance and poisonous reptiles and insects typically complicate excavations. These challenging circumstances dictate that the CILHI anthropologist constantly adapt conventional archeological techniques to unconventional excavation situations to maintain the crucial balance between maximum data recovery and scientific protocol.
Decay Rates in a Cold Climate Region: A Review of Cases Involving Advanced Decomposition from the Medical Examiner's Office in Edmonton, Alberta
Authors: Komar DA
Published: August 2015

Previous research into postmortem interval (PMI) estimation has been restricted to temperate and arid climates. Results suggest that decomposition rates may be significantly slower in cold weather regions. Preliminary research to conduct a cold weather time since death study has begun in Edmonton, which experiences mean monthly temperatures below freezing five months of the year. A case review at Edmonton's Office of the Chief Medical Examiner from 1990 to 1996 provided background information on a sample of 20 cases involving advanced decomposition, with partial to complete skeletonization of remains. Cases with a PMI of less than seven months were compared with regional weather records to establish the mean PMI temperature. Results indicate that skeletonization can occur in less than six weeks in summer and four months in winter, despite freezing temperatures. In some cases, postmortem animal activity accelerated decomposition rates.
Capillary Electrophoresis STR Analysis: Comparison to Gel-Based Systems
Authors: Buel E , Schwartz MB , LaFountain MJ
Published: August 2015

Capillary electrophoresis is a relatively new technology for the forensic analysis of STRs, and may be an excellent alternative to traditional gel-based methods. Eighty samples, obtained from six different laboratories which had previously analyzed the samples using a variety of gel-based methods, were reanalyzed by CE. It was determined that CE could obtain the same allelic designation as that reported by the comparison laboratory. Seven different loci employing two separate multiplex amplifications were used for the comparison study. One basepair resolution and average standard deviations within the range of 0.075 to 0.117 basepairs were observed.
The Use of an Adhesive Lifter and pH Indicator for the Removal and Enhancement of Shoeprints in Dust
Authors: Shor Y , Vinokurov A , Glattstein B
Published: August 2015

The use of a white adhesive lifter to remove footwear imprints in dust and their subsequent enhancement with a pH indicator is described. Two cases in which shoeprints were recovered using this method are presented. It was found that this method is superior to that of gel lifting.
Evaluation of the Effect of Asthma Inhalers and Nasal Decongestant Sprays on a Breath Alcohol Test
Authors: Logan BK , Distefano S , Case GA
Published: August 2015

The effects of eight prescription and non-prescription asthma inhalers and four over-the-counter nasal decongestants on the DataMaster, an evidential breath alcohol instrument, were evaluated. Subjects self administered the medication, and breath alcohol tests were administered immediately after use and following a 15 min waiting period. The only preparation which produced any effect on the instrument was Primatene Mist which contains 34% ethyl alcohol. The alcohol was, however, eliminated from the breath in the usual pattern of mouth alcohol elimination, and after 5 min there was no longer any effect. The inclusion of a 15 min deprivation period prior to an evidential breath test, during which time nothing is introduced into the mouth, is an adequate safeguard against interference with the test caused by alcohol containing inhalers.
Analysis of Accelerants and Fire Debris Using Aroma Detection Technology
Authors: Barshick S-A
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this work was to investigate the utility of electronic aroma detection technologies for the detection and identification of ignitable liquid accelerants and their residues in suspected arson debris. Through the analysis of “known” accelerants and residues, a trained neural network was developed for classifying fire debris samples. Three “unknown” items taken from actual fire debris that had contained the fuels, gasoline, kerosene, and diesel fuel, were classified using this neural network. One item, taken from the area known to have contained diesel fuel, was correctly identified as diesel fuel residue every time. For the other two “unknown” items, variations in sample composition, possibly due to the effects of weathering or increased sample humidities, were shown to influence the sensor response. This manifested itself in inconsistent fingerprint patterns and incorrect classifications by the neural network. Sorbent sampling prior to aroma detection was demonstrated to reduce these problems and allowed improved neural network classification of the remaining items which were identified as kerosene and gasoline residues.
Use of Acidified Hydrogen Peroxide to Remove Excess Gun Blue from Gun Blue-Treated Cartridge Cases and to Develop Latent Prints on Untreated Cartridge Cases
Authors: Cantu AA , Leben DA , Ramotowski R , Kopera J , Simms JR
Published: August 2015

A formula used by firearms and toolmark examiners to clean lead residue from bullets was also found to remove excess gun blue coating from metal cartridge cases. It consists of a mixture of acetic acid and hydrogen peroxide and works by oxidizing the coating back into solution. This explanation allows one to determine the optimum proportion of the mixture. Acidified hydrogen peroxide formulas were also found to “clean” (oxidize or etch) metal cartridge cases in areas where there was no sebaceous latent print material (or other substances that resist oxidation). The subsequent treatment of these “cleaned” cartridge cases with gun blue to enhance the latent print contrast was also considered.
Evaluation of the Human Hair Root for DNA Typing Subsequent to Microscopic Comparison
Authors: Linch CA , Smith SL , Prahlow JA
Published: August 2015

Telogen human hairs are one of the most common useful evidence findings at crime scenes and/or on homicide victims. Occasionally, the microscopic characterization of the found telogen hair is the only physical evidence association to a victim or suspect. Recently efforts to characterize these hairs by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) methods have progressed. The nature of the telogen hair root morphology and ultrastructure has, however, been largely ignored. Examiners have recognized these hairs are unlikely to be typable by nuclear DNA (nuDNA) methods. Most forensic biologists have little knowledge of the complex cellular composition of anagen, catagen, and telogen hair roots or their morphogenesis. This paper reviews ex situ human hair root morphology as it relates to the likelihood of successful nuclear DNA typing. Dermatology texts of hair root morphology always demonstrate their microscopic appearance in the skin. This study investigates the use of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) methods to sex type telogen head hairs, and it further investigates hair root morphology as it relates to the potential nuclear DNA content of evidence hairs.

There is a need for the use of appropriate, consensus terminology for describing hair root morphology. There is also a need for standardized laboratory light microscopic methods in evaluating a hair root for DNA typing. FISH was found to be an unsuitable technique for sex determination of telogen hair clubs. It was determined that anagen/catagen hair roots without translucent sheath material are excellent candidates for nuDNA PCR-based typing and that hairs with telogen club root material only should not be submitted for nuDNA typing attempts.
Post-Traumatic Movement Disorders: Effect of the Legal System on Outcome
Authors: Scarano VR , Jankovic J
Published: August 2015

Since patients with post-traumatic, neurologic, movement disorders often seek legal counsel and become involved in litigation, we used this group of disorders as a model for testing the hypothesis that an interaction with the legal system may influence its outcome. We reviewed 100 consecutive medical records of patients with post-traumatic movement disorders from the Movement Disorders Clinic at the Baylor College of Medicine. Additionally, 40 patients completed a detailed questionnaire and a health survey. Nineteen of the 40 respondents had obtained legal representation in regards to compensation for their medical problems. The group of patients with attorneys differed from those without legal representation in that they were significantly younger and a significantly higher percentage of these patients were disabled as compared to the group without attorneys. While most were dissatisfied with the legal system, 68% were satisfied with services provided by their attorneys. Although the patients with legal aspects of their movement disorders seemed to have more severe and persistent disability, we could not definitely conclude that the legal system had adversely affected the outcome of the post-traumatic movement disorders.
The Natural Decomposition of Adipocere
Authors: Pfeiffer S , Milne S , Stevenson RM
Published: August 2015

Adipocere is a waxy substance which sometimes forms from the adipose tissue of dead bodies, especially when they are under water. A disinterment in southern Ontario lead to the recovery of extensive adipocere from an interment which occurred in AD 1869. Subsequent laboratory research was designed to explore the conditions under which adipocere will disappear, the goal being to identify strategies for estimating a range of time since death in cases where adipocere is present. Varieties of aerobic or facultatively anaerobic microorganisms from the surface of the adipocere were separated and identified. In culture, the gram positive were able to degrade the adipocere. We propose that the persistence of adipocere is related to the exclusion of gram positive bacteria from the burial environment. The role of bacteria in adipocere formation and degradation must be understood before we can use the presence of adipocere to extrapolate information about the post-death interval.
The DRPLA CAG Repeats in an Italian Population Sample: Evaluation of the Polymorphism for Forensic Applications
Authors: Pelotti S , Mantovani V , Esposti PD , D'Apote L , Bragliani M , Maiolini E , Abbondanza A , Pappalardo G
Published: August 2015

The DRPLA CAG repeats polymorphism has been studied in an Italian population sample. PCR amplification, manual PAGE and silver staining were employed. A total of 16 different alleles, spanning the range from 5 to 21 CAG triplettes, was observed. The heterozygosity was 0.81 and no significant deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was found. 81 meioses from parentage testing were also analyzed and a Mendelian pattern of inheritance was observed in all cases. In addition, we could successfully type DRPLA locus in some forensic specimens, 1 ng of DNA allowing clear definition of alleles. The authors conclude that the DRPLA CAG repeats analysis may be useful for forensic applications.
Mitochondrial DNA Sequencing of Shed Hairs and Saliva on Robbery Caps: Sensitivity and Matching Probabilities
Authors: Allen M , Engström A-S , Meyers S , Handt O , Saldeen T , von Haeseler A , Pääbo S , Gyllensten U
Published: August 2015

Sequencing of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) has been used for human identification based on teeth and skeletal remains. Here, we describe an amplification system for the mtDNA control region (D-loop) suited for the analysis of shed hair, which constitutes the most common biological evidence material in forensic investigations. The success rate was over 90% when applied to evidence materials such as shed hair, saliva stains and saliva on stamps. The analysis of evidence materials collected from three similar robberies revealed the presence of mtDNA sequences identical to those of the suspects in the three crimes. The use of mtDNA control region sequences for individual identification was evaluated. The probability of identity by chance for the mtDNA types of the suspects in the robberies was found to vary between Pr = 0.017 − <0.0017, depending on the reference population used, emphasizing the need for large population databases to obtain the appropriate estimate.
Sex Identification of Elk (Cervus elaphus canadensis), Moose (Alces alces), and White-Tailed Deer (Odocoileus virginianus) Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Wilson PJ , White BN
Published: August 2015

We have developed a PCR-based protocol to determine the gender of tissue samples originating from elk (Cervus elephus canadensis), moose (Alces alces) and white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus). The technique simultaneously amplifies a conserved region of the sex-determining gene on the Y-chromosome (Sry) and a region of the Fragile X mental retardation gene (Fmr-1). The multiplex nature of this protocol allows the determination of gender using the Sry marker with the Fmr-1 marker providing an internal control. This technique is applicable to the enforcement of the validation tag system for game species. Data are provided from a wildlife investigation in Ontario.
Visualization of Sebaceous Fingerprints on Fired Cartridge Cases: A Laboratory Study
Authors: Migron Y , Hocherman G , Springer E , Almog J , Mandler D
Published: August 2015

The visualization and endurance of fingerprints on cartridge cases after the firing process have been examined. Cartridges of M16, AK-47 (Kalashnikov) and Parabellum have been tested. Despite difficulties in visualizing these fingerprints, it was found that in some cartridge cases under laboratory conditions—for instance, on M16 brass cartridges—substantial parts of the fingerprints remain intact after shooting. The careful use of illumination after metal vapor deposition enabled visualization. Different possible mechanisms responsible for the partial destruction of the fingerprints are discussed.
Stability of Diltiazem in Whole Blood: Forensic Implications
Authors: Koves EM , Lawrence K , Mayer JM
Published: August 2015

The stability of diltiazem (DTZ) in whole blood and in postmortem samples was investigated. In the first study, an aliquot of outdated Red Cross blood with sodium fluoride added as a preservative was spiked with DTZ and stored for one year under three separate conditions: room temperature, 4°C, and −20°C. DTZ and one of its major metabolites, desacetyldiltiazem (DAD), were quantitated at given intervals during this period. In the second study, case postmortem blood samples (n = 36) that exhibited different degrees of putrefaction were spiked in a similar fashion and the stability of DTZ was determined after storage at 4°C for 92 days. DTZ and DAD were extracted as bases, using mild pH conditions to prevent the hydrolysis of DTZ, and quantitated by an HPLC system equipped with a diode array detector and a Supelcosil LCDP column, 5 µm, 250 mm × 4.6 mm inside diameter. Approximately 50% of DTZ was lost in the Red Cross blood stored at room temperature and 4°C, after 19 and 124 days, respectively. This was associated with concomitant appearance and comparable increase in DAD concentration, presumably due to the in vitro hydrolysis of DTZ to DAD. No significant loss of DTZ was observed in the −20°C samples. Similar changes in DTZ and DAD concentrations were seen in postmortem blood samples stored at 4°C for 92 days, though notably, the extent of loss of DTZ varied from complete to negligible. The data suggest that the potential for in vitro conversion of DTZ to DAD should be considered for proper interpretation of postmortem DTZ/DAD findings. Several cases examined in this laboratory will be used to discuss other forensic implications.
Factors Associated with Weapon Use in Maternal Filicide
Authors: Lewis CF , Baranoski MV , Buchanan JA , Benedek EP
Published: August 2015

The objective of this study was to identify factors associated with weapon use in a group of filicidal women. Clinical data were gathered from the charts of sixty filicidal women evaluated at Michigan's Center for Forensic Psychiatry or through Connecticut's Psychiatric Security Review Board from 1970 to 1996. Factors associated with weapon use were determined using chi squares, ANCOVAS, and a logistic regression. Results were compared to national statistics for child homicide from the Department of Justice Uniform Crime Reports (UCR). Weapon was defined as knife or gun for the study. Weapons were used by one of four women in our study. Guns were used by 13% of filicidal women and knives by 12%. Odds ratio showed that psychotic women were eleven times more likely to kill their child with a weapon than their non-psychotic counterparts (11.2; p = .008). Psychosis was present in every mother who killed her child with a knife and in seven of eight women who killed their children with a gun. Younger children were less likely to be killed with weapons (ANCOVA; F = 8.28; p = .006). This finding was independent of presence or absence of maternal psychosis. These results show that psychotic women are more likely than non-psychotic women to kill their children with weapons. They also show that mothers are more likely to use weapons to kill older children than younger children.
Cardiac Sarcoidosis—An Occult Cause of Sudden Death: a Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Veinot JP , Johnston B
Published: August 2015

Sarcoidosis is a multi-systemic granulomatous disease of unknown cause. It commonly involves lymph nodes, lungs, eyes, and skin. Cardiac sarcoid may be isolated, or associated with systemic involvement. Cardiac involvement is found in 20–50% of autopsied patients with sarcoidosis. However, it only gives rise to clinical manifestations in about 5% of patients. Cardiac involvement by sarcoid has been reported to manifest as complete heart block, papillary muscle dysfunction, congestive heart failure, pericarditis and/or effusion, conduction abnormality or arrhythmia, chest pain, and sudden death.

The most common site of involvement is the interventricular septum base, which when involved may lead to heart block or arrhythmia. We report a case of sudden death in a 33-year-old male with a history of surgically repaired congenital heart disease. Although his congenital heart disease was originally postulated to be important in his death, autopsy examination revealed cardiac sarcoid with prominent involvement of the conduction system.
Review of: Principles and Practice of Military Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

I served as a psychiatrist in the Air Force during the period of the Korean War. The guideline or manual for forensic psychiatric work at that time was a short bulletin covering a few major issues. Life for physicians then was simple and in many ways much nicer and less stressful than it is today when numerous rules and regulations, complicated and at times conflicting legal and moral principles, and a vast expansion of sociolegal philosophies play a dominant role in one's professional existence.
A Simple DNA Extraction Method for Marijuana Samples Used in Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphism (AFLP) Analysis
Authors: Coyle HM , Shutler G , Abrams S , Hanniman J , Neylon S , Ladd C , Palmbach T , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

As a first step in developing a molecular method for the individualization of marijuana samples, we evaluated a plant DNA extraction kit. The QIAGEN plant DNeasy method uses a spin column format for recovery of DNA and is effective for obtaining high molecular weight DNA from leaf, flower (bud), and seed samples of marijuana. The average DNA yield was 125–500 ng per 100 milligrams of fresh plant tissue. The recovered DNA was of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) quality as measured by the ability to generate reproducible amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) profiles. AFLP is a technique used to create a DNA profile for plant varieties and is being applied to marijuana samples by the authors to link growers and distributors of clonal material. The QIAGEN plant DNeasy method was simple, efficient, and reproducible for processing small quantities of marijuana into DNA.
Estimation of Age in Adolescents—The Basilar Synchondrosis
Authors: Kahana T , Birkby WH , Hiss L , Hiss J
Published: August 2015

The state of fusion of the basilar synchondrosis as a biological age indicator was assessed in a sample of 91 cadavers of both sexes whose ages ranged between 8 and 26 years. The correlation between the degree of closure and chronological age was investigated. Although the female population sample was very small (n = 21), the data indicate a tendency of differences in age between the "open" and "closed" groups. In the male population (n = 70), no significant differences were detected between the “open” and “closed” categories; in fact, the mean age of the two groups was the same (p = 0.9). These findings indicate that the stage of fusion of the basilar synchondrosis is not a good indicator of age in male cadavers, while in females the feature could be useful when estimating age of unknown human remains, although further investigation on a larger sample is advocated.
Punched With A Fist: The Etiology of a Fatal Depressed Cranial Fracture
Authors: Fenton TW , deJong JL , Haut RC
Published: August 2015

We report a case in which a 33-year-old man was discovered unconscious following a fistfight with another man. Emergency neurosurgical efforts to repair a depressed temporoparietal skull fracture and associated brain injuries were unsuccessful. The forensic anthropologist and pathologist worked in tandem to sort out a complex combination of cranial evidence, including healed antemortem trauma, perimortem blunt force trauma, remote and recent neurosurgical intervention, and the craniotomy cut performed at autopsy. The victim had suffered head injuries and a right temporoparietal craniotomy ten years prior to death. The perimortem cranial fractures were centrally located within a surgically repaired roundel of bone involving portions of the right temporal and parietal bones. Reportedly, the victim was punched on the right side of his head as he was lying on the ground with the left side of his head against an asphalt surface. A primary question in the case was whether a blow with a fist could have produced the observed cranial injuries. To adequately answer that question, known data on the minimum amount of force required to fracture the temporoparietal region were compared to data on the amount of force generated by a blow with a fist. A biomechanics expert demonstrated that a single blow with a fist to the rigidly supported head of the victim could generate the required force to produce the observed fractures. The previous medical condition possibly predisposed the victim to the cranial fractures and contributed to the depressed nature of the fractures. Although depressed cranial fractures do not typically result from a blow with a fist, it was determined in this case that the fracture pattern was consistent with a punch to the head.
A Fast and Safe Non-Bleaching Method for Forensic Skeletal Preparation
Authors: Fenton TW , Birkby WH , Cornelison J
Published: August 2015

Over the last three decades, forensic anthropologists increasingly have consulted on fleshed human remains cases in which the examination of skeletal elements is critical in answering questions of identification and the circumstances of death. This was certainly the case at the Human Identification Laboratory in Tucson, Arizona. As the caseload increased, it became clear that a method for defleshing human remains was needed in order to expeditiously expose the osseous surfaces for analysis, yet at the same time, preserving the evidentiary nature of the material. As a result, a fast, safe and economical method for defleshing human remains and producing high quality, degreased skeletal elements was developed. This non-bleaching cooking method utilizes chemicals that are easily obtained and inexpensive standard household ingredients that can be purchased at most grocery stores.
Stun Gun Injuries in the Abuse and Death of a Seven-Month-Old Infant
Authors: Turner MS , Jumbelic MI
Published: August 2015

The author autopsied a seven-month-old infant who was shocked repeatedly with a stun gun by his foster mother, in an attempt by the foster mother to get the infant to stop crying. The stun gun injuries were round, well-circumscribed, erythematous macular lesions, which were found in pairs. The lesions were 2 in. apart, and were found to match the distance between the electrodes of the stun gun found in the foster mother's purse. Based on the electrical output of the stun gun, the small size of the infant, location of stun gun discharge, and the decreased resistance of the infant's skin, it can be concluded that the stun gun injury is responsible for the infant's death.
Legal, Ethical and Clinical Implications of Prescribing Involuntary, Life-Threatening Treatment: The Case of the Sunshine Kid
Authors: Irvin TL
Published: August 2015

Involuntary treatment is a concept often familiar to psychiatrists. In clinical practice, it usually involves the hospitalization and pharmacological management of patients with severe mental disorders. However, the scope of involuntary treatment is not limited to the management of mental illness alone. Psychiatric patients afflicted with medical illnesses may require hospitalization and invasive procedures for optimal management of these disorders. The following case illustrates a dilemma in which a psychotic patient refuses life-saving medical treatment; however, the treatment itself carries significant risk of morbidity and mortality. This article reviews the ethical, legal and clinical implications of making such difficult treatment decisions.
Reliability of Bloodhounds in Criminal Investigations
Authors: Harvey LM , Harvey JW
Published: August 2015

Anecdotal evidence and legend have suggested that bloodhounds are capable of trailing and alerting to a human by his or her individual scent. This same evidence may be presented to a court of law in order to accuse a particular suspect or suspects of a crime. There is little to no scientific evidence confirming the bloodhound's ability to trail and discriminate the scent of different individual humans. Eight bloodhounds (3 novice and 5 veteran), trained in human scent discrimination were used to determine the reliability of evidence, garnered through the use of bloodhounds, in a court of law. These dogs were placed on trails in an environment that simulated real-life scenarios. Results indicate that a veteran bloodhound can trail and correctly identify a person under various conditions. These data suggest that the potential error rate of a veteran bloodhound-handler team is low and can be a useful tool for law enforcement personnel.
Fatal Diphenhydramine Intoxication in Infants
Authors: Baker AM , Johnson DG , Levisky JA , Hearn WL , Moore KA , Levine B , Nelson SJ
Published: August 2015

Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine available in numerous over-the-counter preparations. Often used for its sedative effects in adults, it can cause paradoxical central nervous system stimulation in children, with effects ranging from excitation to seizures and death.

Reports of fatal intoxications in young children are rare. We present five cases of fatal intoxication in infants 6, 8, 9, 12, and 12 weeks old. Postmortem blood diphenhydramine levels in the cases were 1.6, 1.5, 1.6, 1.1 and 1.1 mg/L, respectively. Anatomic findings in each case were normal. In one case the child's father admitted giving the infant diphenhydramine in an attempt to induce the infant to sleep; in another case, a daycare provider admitted putting diphenhydramine in a baby bottle. Two cases remain unsolved; one case remains under investigation.

The postmortem drug levels in these cases are lower than seen in adult fatalities. We review the literature on diphenhydramine toxicity, particularly as it pertains to small children, and discuss the rationale for treating these cases as fatal intoxications.