bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Forensic Science Implications of Site and Temporal Influences on Postmortem Blood-Drug Concentrations
Authors: Prouty RW , Anderson WH
Published: August 2015

The dependence of postmortem blood-drug concentrations on the collection site and on the postmortem interval before specimen collection has been studied. These studies consisted of both sequential sampling from the same collection site at defined time intervals and a comparison of the drug concentrations of postmortem blood simultaneously collected from various sites. A site and time dependence was observed for postmortem blood-drug concentrations. The heart blood-drug concentrations were, in general, significantly higher than those of peripheral specimens. As a result of this phenomenon, the analysis of peripheral blood specimens and solid tissues is often necessary before a definitive interpretation of postmortem toxicological analyses is possible.
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Detection by Means of Enzyme Immunoassay: A Useful Method in Forensic Pregnancy Diagnosis in Bloodstains
Authors: Vallejo G
Published: August 2015

This paper reports on human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) detection in bloodstains using a commercial kit based on enzyme immunoassay. The specificity and sensitivity of the method is tested, as well as HCG stability over time in the samples. Detection of this hormone in bloodstains is of special interest for pregnancy diagnosis in forensic science applications.

The experimental series comprises 60 bloodstains prepared in our laboratory and obtained from blood samples taken from 30 pregnant women and 30 healthy, nonpregnant individuals. The bloodstains were studied at different stages of aging over a 6-month period, each sample being stored at 2 different temperatures throughout the process.

The experimental evidence proves HCG to be a useful and stable diagnostic indicator of pregnancy in bloodstains. In addition, the technique used is fast, as well as highly sensitive and specific.
Improving Information Management in a Metropolitan Coroner's Office. Part 1: Design and Implementation of a Cost-Effective Minicomputer System with Initial Applications for the Toxicology Laboratory
Authors: Cechner RL , Hepler BR , Sutheimer CA
Published: August 2015

We report the development of a system of computer hardware and software which addresses the special needs of forensic toxicology laboratories for real-time data-gathering, analysis, and retrieval. In addition to accessioning, work-list preparation, and result reporting, we implement automatic test ordering based on patient and case characteristics to provide reliable and uniform analyte profiles for puzzle solving. The system also provides extensive real-time event journaling to satisfy strict chain of custody requirements, consistent with both College of American Pathologists accreditation and National Institute on Drug Abuse certification. The toxicologist's expertise has been woven into the fabric of the software so that appropriate new orders are placed as results from previous orders arrive. The relationships among analyte concentrations in various specimens (blood, urine, gastric, and so forth) as a function of time before and after death have been incorporated into other software experts which review final results for inconsistencies. The system has saved many hours of error-prone manual work, streamlined data storage and access, automated data collection from instruments, and made a broad spectrum of expertise available to the laboratory at all times. These features have decreased error rates, increased productivity, and enhanced the puzzle-solving skills of the laboratory.
Deciphering Bloody Imprints Through Chemical Enhancement
Authors: Doherty PE , Mooney DJ
Published: August 2015

Obliterated bloody impressions are occasionally submitted to the crime laboratory, and potentially to the document examiner, for decipherment. Nondestructive methods often lead to inconclusive results in these circumstances. With this point in mind, the researchers explored a series of chemical reagents with the intent to enhance bloody imprints to a legible degree. The reagents selected for this comparison include rhodamine dye, luminol, and Coomassie Blue stain.
Positive Identification of American Indian Skeletal Remains from Radiograph Comparison
Authors: Ubelaker DH
Published: August 2015

The case reported here documents how comparative data gleaned from study of museum collections enabled positive identification of an American Indian homicide victim through radiograph comparison. In particular, the shape of the lateral border of the scapula proved to be a unique anatomical feature, appropriate for establishing positive identification.
A Fatal Interaction of Methocarbamol and Ethanol in an Accidental Poisoning
Authors: Ferslew KE , Hagardorn AN , McCormick WF
Published: August 2015

A case is presented of a fatal drug interaction caused by ingestion of methocarbamol (Robaxin®) and ethanol. Methocarbamol is a carbamate derivative used as a muscle relaxant with sedative effects. Therapeutic concentrations of methocarbamol are reported to be 24 to 41 μg/mL. Biological fluids were screened for ethanol using the Abbott TDx system and quantitated by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC). Determination of methocarbamol concentrations in biological tissue homogenates and fluids were obtained by colorimetric analysis of diazotized methocarbamol. Blood ethanol concentration was 135 mg/dL (0.135% w/v) and urine ethanol was 249 mg/dL (0.249% w/v). Methocarbamol concentrations were: blood, 257 μg/mL; bile, 927 μg/mL; urine, 255 μg/mL; gastric, 3.7 g; liver, 459 μg/g; and kidney, 83 μg/g. The combination of ethanol and carbamates is contraindicated since acute alcohol intoxication combined with carbamate usage can lead to combined central nervous system depression as a result of the interactive sedative-hypnotic properties of the compounds.
A Dextromoramide-Related Fatality
Authors: Brewer E
Published: August 2015

A 38-year-old man was found in his car suffering from a heart attack. Serum analysis by capillary gas chromatography and mass spectrometry confirmed the presence of dextromoramide (Palfium®), methadone, and lidocaine. The serum concentrations at admission to the hospital were: 1.9 μg/mL of dextromoramide, 0.4 μg/mL of methadone, and 0.4 μg/mL of lidocaine. A serum alcohol analysis performed using headspace gas chromatography was negative.
Case Report: Nonfracture-Associated Fatal Fat Embolism in a Case of Child Abuse
Authors: Nichols GR , Corey TS , Davis GJ
Published: August 2015

Fatal fat embolism is usually thought of as a sequel to long-bone fracture, although cases secondary to soft tissue injury and atraumatic conditions have been infrequently reported. In this case of a two-year-old child-abuse victim who sustained multiple blunt traumatic injuries without skeletal fractures, pulmonary and systemic (brain and kidney) fat emboli were identified. At autopsy, all thoracic and abdominal viscera were intact; cranial contents exhibited only diffuse symmetrical petechial hemorrhages of the white matter. Because of the severe and widespread nature of soft tissue hemorrhage, and the absence of a grossly discernible cause of death, fat embolism was suspected. Using a combination of frozen section with oil red O staining and formalin-fixed osmium stained tissues, the immediate cause of death was determined to be diffuse fat embolism.

Review of the literature reveals a pathophysiologic basis for fat embolism in the absence of fracture, both as a consequence of an acute increase in local pressure at the site of trauma and an alteration of the emulsification of blood lipids during shock. In light of these findings, we present this case to remind the forensic science community to consider fat embolism as the cause of death in cases of blunt-force injury without fracture.
Review of Needle Sharing Among Intravenous Drug Abusers
Authors: Finkle BS
Published: August 2015

There is much that is right and pertinent about this volume, which is the eightieth in the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Research monograph series, but the title is misleading. The real story presented here is about how to prevent the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). The title should be “The Relationship Between HIV Infection (AIDS) and Needle Sharing Practices Among Intravenous Drug Abusers.” This book is based upon papers and discussion from a technical review which took place in May 1987, sponsored by the Division of Clinical Research, NIDA, but it was not printed until a year later and became available in early 1989.
A Review of Pathology Annual 1988, Part II
Authors: Sperry KL
Published: August 2015

The editors of the long-running Pathology Annual series once again have shown their interest in medicolegally oriented topics with several of the articles in Part 2 of Volume 23, the second issue for 1988. One of the distinct advantages of the Pathology Annual format is that authors are free to expand upon specific subjects to a length greater than is afforded in most periodically published medical journals, allowing a much more comprehensive review. The articles in this issue that are of interest to pathologists who practice forensic medicine, either occasionally or full time, are no exception.
Hae III—A Suitable Restriction Endonuclease for Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism Analysis of Biological Evidence Samples
Authors: Budowle B , Waye JS , Shutler GG , Samuel Baechtel F
Published: August 2015

Hae III has been selected by our laboratories as the restriction endonuclease of choice for restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of forensic science samples. The enzyme is compatible with the D2S44 probe system and generates relatively small DNA fragments for that marker system. Similarly, Hae III is compatible with several other independent polymorphic loci, including D1S7, D4S139, D16S85, D17S74, D17S79, D14S13, and D20S15. Hae III is functional under a variety of adverse conditions for DNA digestion and is not affected by the methylation pattern in mammals. Finally, Hae III is a relatively inexpensive restriction endonuclease.
Km(3) Identification by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) as an Internal Control for Km(1) Activity Determined by Inhibition in Dried Bloodstains
Authors: Lima SM , Newall PJ
Published: August 2015

A stability study comparing the identification of kappa marker Km(1), using the classical inhibition of agglutination, and the identification of Km(3), using an automated enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique, was done.

Preliminary tests were performed to establish the specificity and sensitivity of the methods. Based on the results, the quantities of stain required to detect each marker were determined.

Blood samples from 24 staff donors of known phenotype were aged at room temperature and at 37°C in the dried stain and liquid forms. In addition, 192 stains from cases 1 to 7 months old and 76 staff-donor stains from 1½ to 10 years old were tested in dried stain form.

The known sensitivity of the ELISA technique was exploited by deliberately testing a decreased quantity of antigen. As control stains were aged beyond the detectable limits of sensitivity, results consistently showed an almost simultaneous success or failure to detect Km(1) and Km(3). This indicates that the interpretive criteria established for ELISA are sufficiently demanding to eliminate the danger of reporting false Km(−1) results but true Km(3) results.
Behavior of Genetic Markers in Recipients After Bone Marrow Transplantation and Problems in Forensic Medicine
Authors: Ikemoto S , Kajii E , Tsuchida S , Amemiya Y , Kato K , Miura Y
Published: August 2015

The authors report studies on four pairs of donors and recipients in bone marrow transplantation (BMT). A broad range of gene markers at 41 gene loci, including 11 red blood cell markers, 5 human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) types, 12 serum protein markers, 5 red cell enzyme markers, and 8 salivary markers were evaluated before and after BMT over 2 months. As a result, 9 out of 41 gene loci of genetic markers in recipients were transformed into the donor type. BMT between family members may lead to transformation of gene markers, but within a pattern compatible with family inheritance patterns, and no genetic paradox will be found in later surveys of familial genetic relationships. However, in a personal identification system in forensic medicine using genetic markers as an index, the appearance of a phenotype incompatible with a blood relationship is possible after BMT with a non-blood-relative donor. This result is similar to the inheritance pattern observed after artificial insemination by a donor's semen (AID), a more complete out-of-family cross.
A Revised Glass Annealing Method to Distinguish Glass Types
Authors: Michael Marcouiller J
Published: August 2015

A revised glass annealing method is presented that results in the separation of tempered glass from the other common glass types. The method uses a temperature programmable muffle furnace that allows a very slow annealing process. The possibility of separating bottle glass from laminated windshield glass emerged. The ability to classify small pieces of glass removed from clothing as to type increases the value of existing glass databases compiled by forensic scientists and, thus, the value of glass evidence in the courts.
Shampoo Residue Profiles in Human Head Hair
Authors: Andrasko J , Stocklassa B
Published: August 2015

Washing hair with shampoo results in an accumulation of shampoo components in the hair. Hair of individuals using different shampoos can be distinguished by analysis of shampoo residues.

A method for extraction and analysis of such residues is presented. The hair is extracted using a methanol/water mixture, and the extract is analyzed by reverse-phase high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC). The detector system consists of two ultraviolet (UV) detectors connected in series. The method is nondestructive to hair and is sensitive enough to be applied to a single hair 5 to 10 cm in length. Residues from hair balsams are analyzed by this technique as well.

The use of this method in forensic science examination of human head hair is demonstrated.
Cocaine in Wayne County Medical Examiner's Cases
Authors: Hood I , Ryan D , Monforte J , Valentour J
Published: August 2015

We determined the incidence of detection of cocaine or its metabolites in Wayne County (Michigan) Medical Examiner's cases from 1984 to 1987. Over this four-year period there was a significant (P < 0.01) increase each year in evidence of recent cocaine use in this population, reaching 38.3% of all tested cases in 1987. Much of this increase was accounted for by homicide victims, especially those in their third or fourth decade of life, of whom 58.6 and 56.3%, respectively, tested positive in 1987. There was a large increase in recent cocaine use in teenage homicide victims in 1987, having previously changed little from 1984 to 1986.

In victims of drug abuse, recent cocaine use also increased significantly (P < 0.01) each year, reaching 47.6% in 1987, generally in combination with heroin. Although deaths attributed solely to cocaine were not as common, they also increased significantly each year from 4 in 1984 to 25 in 1987.

Compared with the general population, those who use cocaine in Wayne County are more likely than those who do not to die prematurely, often as a result of violence.
A Proposed Exception to the AIDS Confidentiality Laws for Psychiatric Patients
Authors: Botello TE , Weinberger LE , Gross BH
Published: August 2015

The authors offer psychotherapists a proposed exception to strict acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related confidentiality laws. The proposal is based on previously established exceptions to the psychotherapist-patient privilege. The recommended breach of confidentiality applies only to cases that meet all of the following criteria: (1) A patient knows that he or she has a human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) positive blood test and has been informed of AIDS-related safety precautions, (2) the HIV-positive patient has a mental disorder, and (3) it is reasonable to believe that the mental disorder has significantly impaired or may significantly impair the patient's ability and behavior to follow AIDS-related safety precautions.
Children Don't Always Tell the Truth
Authors: Martin Kaplan J
Published: August 2015

Although children are being more frequently called as witnesses in court proceedings, they often do not tell the truth. If lying is defined as giving a false statement for personal gain, then lying is only one of several causes for children not giving an accurate account of events. Other reasons include an immature brain, a congenitally acquired defect in the central nervous system, or the presence of an emotional disturbance such as psychosis or hysteria. The desire of a child to please others—that is, parents, therapists, or lawyers—may also result in an invalid statement. These factors and motivations should be considered in trying to interpret a youngster's statement.
Release of Tissue Paraquat into Formalin Solution During Fixation
Authors: Kuo T
Published: August 2015

Formalin-fixed tissues and formalin solutions are among the most frequently found materials in pathology and forensic science laboratories. However, these materials are seldom used for the identification of poisons for forensic toxicology purposes. In this study, the possibility that paraquat may be released from formalin-fixed tissues during the fixation process was investigated. However, because of the interference of formaldehyde on the reduction of paraquat with dithionite reagent, paraquat in formalin solutions was treated with ion-pair column chromatography and then determined by measuring the derivative spectrum of reduced paraquat. The results show that the interference of formalin on paraquat determination has been eliminated by the proposed method. Furthermore, a study on the formalin solutions of fixed organs in cases with suspected paraquat intoxication revealed that portions of tissue paraquat had been released into formalin during the fixation process. Moreover, the paraquat levels in formalin increased with increased storage time. Therefore, these data suggest that the combined concentrations of paraquat in the formalin-fixed tissues and formalin solutions might reflect more reliably the total paraquat in the postmortem tissues. This investigation could be of value to the forensic toxicologist, especially in cases in which no fresh tissue samples are available for analysis.
An Evaluation of the Potential for Clandestine Manufacture of 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) Analogs and Homologs
Authors: Cason TAD
Published: August 2015

Encountering a novel controlled-substance analog (designer drug) has become a distinct possibility for all forensic drug laboratories. 3,4-Methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) in particular is a receptive parent compound for the molecular modifications which produce such homologs and analogs. The identification of these compounds, however, can prove to be an arduous task. It would be desirable to direct the focus of the identification to those compounds which are the more likely candidates for clandestine-laboratory synthesis. The process of narrowing the range of theoretical possibilities to logical choices may be enhanced by using a suitable predictive scheme. Such a predictive scheme for MDA analogs is presented based on putative Central Nervous System activity, existence or formulation of a reasonable synthesis method, and availability of the required precursors.
Accidental Deaths Involving Derringer Handguns: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: McKinney CD , Brinkhous WK , Butts JD
Published: August 2015

Accidental deaths due to discharge of dropped handguns have been previously reported. In this report, the authors review the history and design of the derringer handgun and describe three cases of accidental death due to discharge of derringer-type handguns. In two of these cases, the gun was dropped, resulting in a fatal discharge. The design of the derringer and the absence of a safety feature are cited as underlying factors. If the alleged weapon can be obtained, testing may demonstrate that discharge could occur if the gun were dropped.
Vascular Lesions in Intestinal Ischemia Induced by Cocaine-Alcohol Abuse: Report of a Fatal Case Due to Overdose
Authors: Garfia A , Valverde JL , Borondo JC , Candenas I , Lucena J
Published: August 2015

Intestinal ischemia induced by cocaine abuse is a rare condition. To this date, only three cases have been described. The diagnosis of bowel ischemia should be suspected whenever a cocaine addict has severe abdominal pain. A pathological examination of the resected bowel segment was performed in one case, and the diagnosis was confirmed microscopically. However, the existence of pathologic alterations of the intestinal vessels was not confirmed. Why the intestinal injury is segmental and whether it is related to the dose ingested, the administration route, or the combination of cocaine with alcohol, caffeine, or marijuana remain unclear. The authors report one fatal case associated with cocaine-alcohol overdose. The postmortem examination demonstrated the existence of segmental intestinal ischemia. Microscopic study failed to demonstrate thrombosis in the mesenteric vessels; however, we found an unusual lesion affecting the arterioles located in the intestinal submucosa of the hemorrhagic areas.
An Unusual Case Involving the Individualization of a Clothing Impression on a Motor Vehicle
Authors: Drummond FC , Pizzola PA
Published: August 2015

In the case reported herein, the authors compared two articles of clothing (a belt and pants) with the impression found on the bumper of an automobile alleged to have impacted a pedestrian, thereby causing his death. The following aspects of the clothing corresponded to sites in the impression: the weave pattern of the pants and belt loop, stitching of the belt loop, orientation of the belt and belt inscription with respect to the pants, and individual characteristics on the border of the belt. This unusual combination of features allowed an individualization to be made between the impression of the motor vehicle and the clothing of the victim.
A Review of Disposition of Toxic Drugs and Chemicals in Man, Third Edition
Authors: Blanke RV
Published: August 2015

This third edition of Baselt's indispensable compilation of data summaries and references has several welcome changes. First and foremost is the addition of another author, R. Cravey, with whom Baselt has collaborated frequently in the past. The book itself has now expanded from a 15 by 22.5-cm page size to 17.5 by 25.5 cm, with a clearer, more legible type font. The total pages have increased from 795 to 875 to accommodate a 17% increase in monographs, and 56 additional substances are discussed. The familiar red cover now bears the structure of morphine rather than that of digoxin.
Validity Testing of Commercial Urine Cocaine Metabolite Assays: IV. Evaluation of the EMIT® d.a.u.™ Cocaine Metabolite Assay in a Quantitative Mode for Detection of Cocaine Metabolite
Authors: Cone EJ , Yousefnejad D , Dickerson SL
Published: August 2015

The EMIT® d.a.u.™ cocaine metabolite assay (EMIT dau) was evaluated in a quantitative mode for analysis of clinical specimens obtained after controlled cocaine administration to human subjects. The quantitative results showed high concordance with those of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) assays of the same specimens for benzoylecgonine, and no false positive or false negative results were obtained. The evaluation also included analysis of standardized solutions containing benzoylecgonine, cocaine, and other cocaine metabolites and isomers. The EMIT dau antibody demonstrated high selectivity for benzoylecgonine. The precision was somewhat less than that reported earlier for other commercial cocaine metabolite immunoassays. Quantitation of initial screening results from EMIT dau testing can serve as a useful guide for confirmation by GC/MS in forensic science urine testing.
Microcrystalline Identification of Drugs of Abuse: The Psychedelic Amphetamines
Authors: Julian EA
Published: August 2015

The optical crystallographic or microcrystalline properties of the diliturate derivatives (5-nitrobarbituric acid) of the most used psychedelic amphetamine drugs have been determined. The crystallographic properties, especially the orthographic projection drawings and photomicrography of the crystals and other optical crystallographic data, such as the indices of refraction, extinction angles, and optical orientations serve to characterize and identify this group of drug chemicals. These data can be used with ultraviolet-infrared (UV-IR) spectroscopy, thin-layer chromatography and gas-liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (GLC/MS) data for the identification and confirmation of psychedelic amphetamine drugs.
A Preliminary Report: Proximal Facet Analysis and the Recovery of Trace Restorative Materials from Unrestored Teeth
Authors: Smith BC
Published: August 2015

A small sample of unrestored teeth with wear facets on the proximal surfaces was examined using a scanning electron microscope and energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (EDS) analysis. Initial results indicate the potential of this technique for detection of residual restorative materials in these facet areas, and its resulting capability to determine the existence and composition of unrecovered adjacent restorations. The potential value of this technique in the identification of incomplete dental remains is discussed.
Damage to Clothing—Cuts and Tears
Authors: Monahan DL , Harding HWJ
Published: August 2015

Examination of clothing in forensic science cases often involves forming an opinion as to the age and cause of any damage present. This study, involving a range of possible weapons, clothing types, and types of damage, showed that it is possible to distinguish a cut from a tear and a slash from a stab. The effect of blood on the appearance of the damaged areas was also investigated. In some cases it is also possible to determine the type of weapon used from the appearance of the damage. The study also demonstrated what features to look for in determining whether the damage to the yarns is recent.
Microbial Degradation of Gasoline in Soil
Authors: Mann DC , Gresham WR
Published: August 2015

Forensic science analysis of soil samples for the presence of flammable liquids occasionally results in the detection of volatile mixtures that lack some of the diagnostic features of common petroleum products. The presence of these mixtures is not consistent with evaporation or with a chemical or physical process, but is reported in microbiological literature that addresses bacterial degradation.

Microbiological research has shown that crude oil spilled in the environment is sometimes degraded by bacteria. A study was conducted to demonstrate how automotive gasoline is degraded. Gasoline was spiked into 36 containers of soil (12 were stored at −5°C; 12 were stored at room temperature; and 12 of the soil samples were sterilized prior to the addition of the gasoline and were then stored at room temperature). These samples were monitored, and the results were compared using static heated headspace sampling and capillary gas chromatography.

The gasoline in the unsterilized samples stored at room temperature degraded rapidly, while the gasoline in the other two sets of samples was unaffected. This degradation followed trends that can be recognized in casework and can assist in the identification of affected petroleum product residues in soil.
Use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) to Identify Cuts and Tears in a Nylon Fabric
Authors: Stowell LI , Card KA
Published: August 2015

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs were obtained for fiber ends of a nylon fabric which had been experimentally cut with a scalpel or scissors, or torn by force. In the nylon fabric used, these three types of damage were identifiable on the basis of features of the fiber ends.
A Review of Criminal Court Consultation
Authors: Robinson D
Published: August 2015

This is a collection of 18 essays plus an introduction by the editors. The latter is icularly useful, as it emphasizes a matter of central importance to the use of mental th professionals in the courts: the issues which arise in litigation are framed by the icable law, not by psychiatry or psychology. Accordingly, the consultant should mpt to clarify the “legal criteria that define the [psychiatric-legal] issue” at the outset is or her work. Nothing has done more to obfuscate the often difficult interactions he courts and the medical and psychological consultants than failure to understand , for example, whether or not antisocial personality is regarded as an “illness” for nostic or treatment purposes is not determinative of whether it should be an exculpatory factor with respect to the legal issue of criminal responsibility. This is not to say the law makes the questions to be addressed clear; it is difficult to imagine concepts vague than those on which competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility lly turn. Lack of determinate legal meanings invites substitution of alternative concepts of the disciplines on which courts rely to assist them in resolving the cases before . Yet this substitution of terms confuses the task of rational adjudication.
A Review of Psychiatric and Psychological Evidence
Authors: Felthous AR
Published: August 2015

As trial lawyers must know from voir dire experience, some potential jurors categorically discount psychiatric testimony. Others question why greater use is not made of testimony from mental health experts, who seek to understand and help people with their psychological problems. Not only laypersons, but also writers in the professional literature both exalt and trash psychiatrists and psychologists as expert witnesses. Some writers present the mental health sciences as a body of valuable theory and knowledge which the legal system has failed to appreciate and apply towards the betterment of mankind. Others advise lawyers how to methodically destroy the witness's testimony and show virtually no appreciation of any contribution the mental health sciences can make towards the just resolution of legal issues.
Incidence and Toxicological Aspects of Cannabis and Ethanol Detected in 1394 Fatally Injured Drivers and Pedestrians in Ontario (1982–1984)
Authors: Cimbura G , Lucas DM , Bennett RC , Donelson AC
Published: August 2015

A comprehensive epidemiological study of the involvement of cannabis and ethanol in motor vehicle fatalities in the Province of Ontario. Canada, is described. The study is based on toxicological analyses of blood and, when available, urine specimens. Ethanol was determined by headspace gas chromatography (GC). For cannabis, the methods employed were radioimmunoassays (RIAs) for screening and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) for the determination of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in blood.

The study sample consisted of 1169 drivers and 225 pedestrians. THC was detected in the blood of 127 driver victims (10.9%) in concentrations ranging from 0.2 to 37 ng/mL, with a mean of 3.1 ± 5.0 ng/mL. Ethanol was found in 667 driver victims (57.1%), in concentrations ranging from 9 to 441 mg/100 mL, with a mean of 165.8 ± 79.5 mg/100 mL. For pedestrians, the incidence of THC and ethanol in the blood was 7.6 and 53.3%, respectively.

The incidence of THC in the driver victims in this study constitutes an approximately threefold increase over the results of an Ontario study completed in 1979. At least a part of the increase may be attributed to interstudy differences in analytical methodology for cannabinoids.
Analysis Protocol for Discrimination of Automotive Paints by SEM-EDXA Using Beam Alignment by Current Centering
Authors: Beam TL , Willis WV
Published: August 2015

A testing protocol for elemental analysis of automotive paint by scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, based on beam alignment by current centering and using an attached optical microscope was developed to improve the reliability of sample comparisons. Six light-green paint samples (three color pairs) from the 1983 Reference Collection of Automotive Paints were used for developing this protocol. X-ray spectral data were acquired using a JEOL JSM-35CF scanning electron microscope with an attached optical microscope and a Tracor Northern energy-dispersive X-ray analyzer and software. The instrumental conditions for the analyses were as follows: 20-kV accelerating voltage, 0.5-nA beam current, 30-mm detector distance, 35° detector take-off angle, 0° sample tilt, and × 200 magnification. The software acquisition parameters were 1 000 000 integral counts per spectrum and a 0.2 to 10-eV spectral range. Statistical analyses were used to examine the reliability of the X-ray spectral data acquired using this protocol. A one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated that the elemental means of all paint samples were significantly different than the means of the same sample in replicate analyses. Simple visual comparison of data between samples, along with ANOVA, provided discrimination of all paint samples.
Concentration of Urine Samples by Three Different Procedures: ABO Typing from Concentrated Urine Samples
Authors: Roy Reena
Published: August 2015

Urine samples from 28 donors with known blood group and secretor status were concentrated by three different procedures, and ABO typing on the concentrated samples was successfully performed after 12 weeks of storage. The effects of storage with or without sodium azide on ABO typing and on the pH values at several different temperatures were also studied.
Fatal Ethanol Intoxication from Household Products Not Intended for Ingestion
Authors: Sperry K , Pfalzgraf R
Published: August 2015

Fatal acute ethanol intoxication is frequently encountered in medicolegal practice. Although the vast majority of acute ethanol toxicity deaths follow the ingestion of conventional alcoholic beverages, ethanol can be obtained from a variety of commercial products, which often contain high levels of ethyl alcohol but are not manufactured or designed for consumption. Such products may be easily purchased in locales where statutory limitations restrict liquor availability on Sundays or during the early morning hours. Several acute ethanol fatalities have been encountered in New Mexico that were directly related to consumption of non-beverage ethanol-containing products, all of them occurring during times when alcoholic beverage sales were restricted. Despite the fact that manufacturers deliberately include compounds in these products that discourage ingestion, this policy apparently does little to deter individuals who are searching for a source of ethanol when no conventional beverages are available. The products that were consumed in these fatalities also contained other compounds which would be toxic at much greater concentrations, but which were inconsequential in their effects in comparison with the direct toxic effect of ethanol. Investigation of the scene and awareness that alcohol-containing products can be fatally abused are essential to detecting these unconventional ethanol sources.
The Grief Process in Those Admitted to Regional Secure Units Following Homicide
Authors: Hambridge JA
Published: August 2015

Although there is considerable literature on grief and grief work, there have been few studies of the grief process in those who have killed someone. This paper reviews the scope of this problem in England and Wales and examines a number of issues in connection with the grieving process in those who have killed but, because they were found to be suffering from an “abnormality of mind” at the time of the offence, were found not guilty of murder. Increasingly, these patients are referred for treatment to Regional Secure Units, under hospital orders of the Mental Health Act of 1983.
Liberty and Tardive Dyskinesia: Informed Consent to Antipsychotic Medication in the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital
Authors: Kleinman SB
Published: August 2015

This paper addresses informed consent to antipsychotic medication of those incarcerated in a forensic psychiatric hospital. The ways in which the unique setting of the forensic psychiatric hospital impinge upon the three components of informed consent—information, voluntariness, and competency—are explored. Special attention is given to the risk-benefit ratio of receiving antipsychotic medication in terms of the liberty interests at stake—freedom of movement, that is, the effects of tardive dyskinesia, and freedom of space, that is, release from the forensic psychiatric facility.
An Elliptical Incised Wound of the Breast Misinterpreted as a Bite Injury
Authors: Sperry K , Campbell HR
Published: August 2015

Bite injuries upon homicide victims are most often initially identified by the forensic pathologist during the course of the autopsy examination. Following such recognition, the injury or photographs of the traumatized site are then referred to a forensic odontologist for his or her examination, further characterization, and subsequent comparison with any suspect's dentition. However, if the pathologist misidentifies an injury caused by another mechanism as a human bite, this mistake can potentially be perpetuated by the dental consultant, since relatively few dentists regularly examine traumatic injuries other than those arising from bites. To illustrate such an event, a case is presented involving an incised wound of the breast, which was originally identified as an avulsive bite wound. Detailed examination by two odontologic consultants confirmed the wound as having been caused by human teeth, and further, they related the “bite injury” to a specific individual. The bite injury interpretation represented the only scientific evidence implicating the suspect at a subsequent trial for capital murder. Later examination of the tissues and photographs by a forensic pathologist and another dental consultant revealed that the injury was not due to human dentition, but rather resulted from a sharp-edged instrument. These consultants conducted a unique experiment to reduplicate the injury and prove its causation. This information was presented to the jury during the suspect's trial and resulted in his acquittal on all charges.
A Review of Commentary on Legal Psychiatry
Authors: Kaye NS
Published: August 2015

Although the dust cover promises “a collection of relevant data on twenty-four psychiatric conditions, a discussion of what a physician sees when such a condition is present, and an examination of how some courts have seen the same problem,” nothing of the sort lies within. Instead, we are presented with the author's rambling and often tangential thoughts about a whole host of psychiatric (and some not psychiatric) conditions.
A Review of Handbook of Chromatography: Drugs, Vols. III and IV
Authors: Sunshine Irving
Published: August 2015

These two volumes contain a comprehensive synopsis of referred articles published between 1979 and 1986 on the chromatographic analysis of drugs. They present a laboriously accumulated mass of information on all the procedural details for the analyses. The gas chromatography data include extraction techniques, column size and type, temperature program, detector, retention time, internal standards, and derivatization procedures. Similar data are presented for liquid chromatography procedures, which also include data on the developing mixture and column packing materials. When available, thin-layer chromatography procedures are also included. Extensive references are part of each drug monograph. These two volumes include drugs listed alphabetically from A through F. Presumably, similar volumes for the remaining drugs are in process.
A Review of Fraud Auditing and Forensic Accounting—New Tools and Techniques
Authors: Casey Owens M
Published: August 2015

The authors initially attempt to expose the reader to the extent of white-collar crime by listing its many varieties. As is stated, the main thrfist of the book is to provide auditors nd investigators with further knowledge of and insight into fraud as an economic, social, and organizational phenomenon. Fraud auditing is referred to as a relatively new discipline, in comparison with financial and operational auditing.
Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Fingerprints for Identity Determination: Comparison with Traditional Paternity Testing Methods—Part I
Authors: Tonelli LA , Markowicz KR , Anderson MB , Green DJ , Herrin GL , Cotton RW , Dykes DD , Garner DD
Published: August 2015

A study involving comparison of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fingerprinting test with traditional methods used for paternity testing is presented. Samples from 191 cases were tested for a series of blood group and polymorphic protein markers. DNA “fingerprints” were then obtained for all samples using the multilocus probes 33.6 and 33.15. The results of DNA fingerprinting correlated well with those of traditional methods and proved to be informative in cases where traditional methods yielded inconclusive or insufficient results.
Use of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) Fingerprints for Identity Determination: Comparison with Traditional Paternity Testing Methods—Part II
Authors: Markowicz KR , Tonelli LA , Anderson MB , Green DJ , Herrin GL , Cotton RW , Gottschall JL , Garner DD
Published: August 2015

Six red blood cell (RBC) antigen systems, coupled with human lymphocyte antigen (HLA) phenotyping, were used to establish paternity on 28 mother/child/allegedfather trios. Samples were subsequently examined using the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fingerprinting test with the multilocus Jeffreys DNA probes 33.6 and 33.15. In 27 of 28 paternity cases, the DNA fingerprinting test results supported and enhanced the results of RBC and HLA typing by resolving disputed paternity cases conclusively. One discrepancy between conventional serological methods and DNA analysis is discussed.
Trajectory Reconstructions I: Trace Evidence in Flight
Authors: Petraco N , De Forest PR
Published: August 2015

This paper reviews the use of trace evidence recovered from spent bullets in helping to establish trajectories. The use of information derived from such trace evidence combined with that from geometrical techniques of trajectory reconstruction and other data is discussed. Five cases are reviewed in which the analysis of trace evidential materials adhering to bullets was used to help reconstruct the event.
High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Column Switching for the Determination of Cocaine and Benzoylecgonine Concentrations in Vitreous Humor
Authors: Logan BK , Stafford DT
Published: August 2015

A sample concentration technique was adapted for the determination of cocaine and benzoylecgonine (BE) concentrations in vitreous humor. Vitreous humor (0.5 mL) was diluted 1:1 with water and applied through a filter onto a 3-cm preconcentration column. Following a simple wash step, the analytes were flushed directly onto a reversed-phase analytical high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) system. Absolute recoveries were high (above 90%) and the chromatograms were free from interference. Analysis for the drug and its breakdown product was performed using ultraviolet (UV) visible photodiode array detection, which allowed confirmation of peak identity. Recognizable UV spectra could be measured with as little as 20 ng on column. Comparison of the drug levels in 27 blood and vitreous humor samples showed that, while there was only a low correlation between the blood and vitreous concentrations (R = 0.70), vitreous cocaine and BE determinations were good indicators of antemortem cocaine use. In almost all cases, the vitreous BE concentrations were higher than the cocaine concentrations. The technique was easy to perform and the vitreous samples were especially compatible with this low-labor analytical procedure.
Comparison of Dyes from Transferred Fibers by Scanning Densitometry
Authors: Golding GM , Kokot S
Published: August 2015

The application of scanning densitometry to the analysis of dyes extracted from transferred fibers is examined. The Camag high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC)/thin-layer chromatography (TLC) scanner can provide all of the information normally available from visual examination of the TLC plates. The position, color, and relative proportions of the various components are obtained in a semiquantitative form. The instrument can provide useful data in both the visible and fluorescence modes with greater sensitivity than is available from visual observations. The potential of the instrument for examination of dyes from pale-colored fibers is demonstrated.

The data obtained are objective and do not suffer from the variations that can occur when using subjective visual observations.
Fluorometric Determination of Pseudocholinesterase Activity in Postmortem Blood Samples
Authors: Kusu F , Tsuneta T , Takamura K
Published: August 2015

A fluorometric assay using 3-(p-hydroxyphenyl) propionic acid (HPPA) was conducted to determine the activity of pseudocholinesterase (ChE) [Enzyme Commission (EC) No. 3.1.1.8] in postmortem blood samples so as to test for organophosphate poisoning. By the enzymatic reaction of ChE, its substrate, benzoylcholine, produces choline, which is oxidized by choline oxidase to generate hydrogen peroxide. HPPA is oxidized by hydrogen peroxide and peroxidase to become the fluorogenic dimer whose concentration is measured fluorometrically at an excitation emission wavelength of 320 nm and an elimination emission wavelength of 404 nm. The selectivity and sensitivity of the present method were found to be superior to those of conventional pH and spectrophotometric methods.
An Application of Probability Theory to a Group of Breath-Alcohol and Blood-Alcohol Data
Authors: Gullberg RG
Published: August 2015

Many jurisdictions have “per se” driving-while-intoxicated (DWI) statutes expressed in terms of a blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) standard (in grams per 100 mL or the equivalent). Since breath-alcohol (BrAC) analysis is typically employed to determine BAC, there is often challenge to the use of an assumed 2100:1 conversion ratio. This concern may be relevant in light of considerable data that show a low percentage of cases in which BrAC > BAC, and this concern increases when the BrAC is used to predict BAC in the context of “per se” legislation.

Probability theory provides a basis for estimating the likelihood of an individual having a BrAC ≥ 0.10 g/210 L with a corresponding BAC < 0.10 g/100 mL. Actual field data from the state of Wisconsin (n = 404) were evaluated to determine the probability of this occurrence. The probability for this occurrence involves the multiplication law for independent events. The computed probability from the data was 0.018. The actual number of occurrences where BrAC ≥ 0.10 g/210 L and BAC < 0.10 g/100 mL was 5, resulting in a probability of 0.012. The concern of having BrAC > BAC at the critical “per se” level has a very low probability of occurrence, which thus supports the reasonableness of “per se” DWI legislation based upon a blood-alcohol standard determined by breath-alcohol analysis.
The Usefulness of Lung Surfactant Phospholipids (LSPs) in the Diagnosis of Drowning
Authors: Lorente JA , Hernandez-Cueto C , Villanueva E , Luna JD
Published: August 2015

The authors have studied the usefulness of some lung surfactant phospholipids (LSPs) isolated from lung tissues as markers of drowning. Two different groups of rabbits were sacrificed by drowning in fresh and salt water, and their phospholipid compositions were compared with those of a non-drowned control series.

For the phospholipids studied in lung lavages (phosphatidyl choline, phosphatidyl ethanolamine, and phosphatidyl glycerol) the proportions differed between the control group and the drowned group, and between the fresh-water and salt-water drowned animals. According to these results, the lipids we have analyzed can be employed as markers in forensic autopsies, where it is necessary to differentiate between death by drowning and postmortem immersion and between fresh-water and salt-water drowning.

In lung tissue, only phosphatidyl choline and phosphatidyl inositol showed significative differences.

These results also confirm that LSPs are strongly affected in drowning.