bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mortality from Hurricane Andrew
Authors: Lew EO , Wetli CV
Published: August 2015

Hurricane Andrew, a category 4 storm, made landfall in South Florida on August 24, 1992, and caused extensive structural and environmental damage. The Dade County Medical Examiner Department investigated 15 deaths directly related to the storm and another 15 natural deaths indirectly related to the storm. The aftermath of the hurricane continued to create circumstances that lead to 32 accidental deaths, five suicides, and four homicides over the next six months. Traffic fatalities due to uncontrolled intersections accounted for one-third of the post-storm accidental deaths. Dyadic deaths (homicide-suicide) doubled in rate for the six months following the storm. The limited number of direct hurricane deaths is attributed to advance storm warnings, its occurrence on a weekend, the storm's passage through less populated areas of the county, and the relatively modest amount of accompanying rainfall.
Toxic Metals in Selected Traditional Chinese Medicinals
Authors: Espinoza EO , Mann MJ , Bleasdell B , DeKorte S , Cox M
Published: August 2015

An examination of traditional Chinese medicine preparations that purport to contain endangered-species products revealed the presence of inorganic forms of mercury and arsenic. We analyzed 12 types of commercially produced herbal ball preparations (n = 85) using X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy and atomic absorption spectroscopy. Mercury levels ranged from 7.8 to 621.3 milligrams and arsenic levels ranged from 0.1 to 36.6 milligrams per ball. The recommended adult dose for these preparations is two balls daily. At this dose the maximum elemental intake per day is up to 73.2 milligrams of arsenic and 1.2 grams of mercury. While arsenic poisoning is usually associated with foul play, and mercury poisoning is usually associated with environmental contamination, forensic scientists should be aware that these elements may be consumed in connection with cultural and lifestyle preferences.
Stability and Spontaneous Production of Blood Cyanide During Heating
Authors: Seto Y
Published: August 2015

To investigate the effects of heat on blood cyanide concentrations, in vitro experiments were performed using a headspace gas chromatographic method. Cyanide concentrations were determined for solutions of human hemoglobin (Hb) at neutrality, and for blood which was sealed in a vial and incubated at 25, 50, 63, 75 and 90°C for 1 h. Spontaneous cyanide production was also measured. Nearly all of the added cyanide was recovered in both the Hb and for blood samples which were heated below 63°C. Cyanide recovery in Hb decreased in a temperature-dependent manner at temperatures above 75°C, and more than half of the recovered cyanide was found to be in the free form. In contrast, cyanide in blood disappeared more rapidly, and a major portion of it existed in the bound form. Cyanide concentrations in Hb solutions which were heated at 90°C dropped in the two phases; a rapid initial phase, followed by a slower process. Spontaneous cyanide production was observed at temperatures above 50°C for Hb and above 63°C for blood. Under optimal conditions (75°C heating), about 0.2 mmol of cyanide was produced per mol heme of Hb.
DNA Profiling in Two Alaskan Native Populations Using HLA-DQA1, PM, and D1S80 Loci
Authors: Walkinshaw M , Strickland L , Hamilton H , Denning K , Gayley T
Published: August 2015

Two Native Alaskan populations were sampled and DNA profiles were generated for 201 individuals. Ninety two blood samples were collected from the North Slope Borough region of Alaska and the remaining 109 blood samples came from Native Alaskans in the Bethel and Wade Hampton areas. Allele and genotype frequencies were established for the HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, and D1S80 loci. Native Alaskans are slightly less polymorphic than Caucasians at the HLA-DQA1 locus. In contrast, the PM loci appear to be nearly as informative in the Native Alaskan populations as in Caucasians for identity testing. The data clearly demonstrate that all the loci tested are highly informative for the Alaskan populations and fall well within Hardy-Weinberg expectations. There is little evidence for departure from expectation of independence of alleles across loci. The data demonstrate that estimates of multiple locus profile frequencies can be obtained from Native Alaskan populations using the product rule under the assumption of independence of loci. In addition, Native Alaskan databases were more similar to each other and to other Native American databases than they were to U.S. Caucasians and African Americans.
The Ninhydrin Process in Supercritical Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Hewlett DF , Winfield PGR , Clifford AA
Published: August 2015

Ninhydrin is a widely used reagent for the development of latent fingerprints on porous surfaces. For the past 20 years 1,1,2-trichlorotrifluoroethane (CFC113) has been used as the solvent of choice in the UK for ninhydrin because of its non-toxicity and non-flammability. With the phasing out of CFC solvents under the terms of the Montreal Protocol on the Control of Ozone Depleting Substances, the need for a suitable replacement has arisen. Supercritical CO2 has been found to be a potential replacement for CFC113 in the ninhydrin process. Furthermore, the present processes are two-stage (impregnation of reagent followed by development in an oven), whereas using supercritical CO2 development of fingerprints can be carried out in one stage.
PCR-Based Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) DQα Typing of Blood Stained Light and Dark Blue Denim Fabric
Authors: Del Rio SA , Marino MA , Belgrader P
Published: August 2015

Obtaining typable PCR products from DNA purified from blood stained blue denim has been difficult since inhibitors of PCR in blue denim apparently co-purify with the DNA. Organic and chelex extraction methods were tested for their ability to purify typable DNA from either light or dark blue denim fabric both stained with blood. DNA purified from the light blue denim using either method was successfully used in obtaining correct HLA-DQα typing results. The chelex, but not the organic, procedure was able to yield typable DNA when the dark blue denim was the substrate. Therefore, the chelex method may be more effective than the organic method in preventing compounds that inhibit PCR from co-purifying with the DNA.
Drug and Alcohol Use in Fatally Injured Drivers in Washington State
Authors: Logan BK , Schwilke EW
Published: August 2015

Blood and/or urine from fatally injured drivers in Washington State were collected and tested for the presence of drugs and alcohol. Drug and/or alcohol use was a factor in 52% of all fatalities. Among single vehicle accidents, alcohol use was a factor in 61% of cases versus 30% for multiple vehicle accidents. Drugs most commonly encountered were marijuana (11%), cocaine (3%), amphetamines (2%), together with a variety of depressant prescription medications. Trends noted included an association of depressant use with higher blood alcohol levels, while marijuana use was associated with lower blood alcohol levels. Marijuana use was noted to be most prominent in the 15–30 year age group, stimulant use in the 21–40 year old group, and prescription depressant use was more prevelant in the 45+ age group. Drug use demographics in this population are consistent with those noted in other jurisdictions.
Facial Casting as a Method to Help Identify Severely Disfigured Corpses
Authors: Quatrehomme G , Garidel Y , Grévin G , Liao Z , Boublenza A , Ollier A
Published: August 2015

The authors apply a previously reported method for facial casting of severely disfigured corpses, which allowed a three-dimensional cast to be made. This method involved several stages: face restoration, casting by elastomer, then three-dimensional positive image building. This technique seems to be useful in all cases of severe disfiguration of the face, particularly by trauma.
Unexpected Deaths Due to Colloid Cysts of the Third Ventricle
Authors: Filkins JA , Cohle S , Levy BK , Graham M
Published: August 2015

Colloid cysts of the third ventricle are rare central nervous system tumors that are a recognized cause of unexpected death in young, otherwise healthy adults and children. We report three adults and one child who died from colloid cysts of the third ventricle. Our report illustrates the difficulties of diagnosing these tumors premortem.
The Detection of a Metabolite of α-Benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine Synthesis in a Mixed Drug Fatality Involving Methamphetamine
Authors: Moore KA , Daniel JS , Fierro M , Mozayani A , Poklis A
Published: August 2015

A 37-year-old, white male collapsed at his home following a party. He reportedly had a history of unspecified cardiac arrhythmia. The ambulance crew found him unresponsive and an ECG revealed ventricular tachycardia/fibrillation. Following one hour of resuscitative efforts in the ambulance and emergency room of a local hospital, he was pronounced dead. An antemortem urine toxicology screen performed at the hospital was “positive” for benzodiazepines, cocaine and amphetamine/methamphetamine. At autopsy, there was generalized organ congestion with no evidence of trauma or other significant pathology except mild, left ventricular hypertrophy. Quantitation by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) of methamphetamine in bile, blood, urine and gastric contents yielded 21.7, 0.7, 32.0 and 2.9 mg/L, respectively. Liver and brain contained 2.2 and 2.7 mg/kg, respectively. A trace amount of p-OH-α-benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine (p-OH-BNMPA), a metabolite of α-benzyl-N-methylphenethylamine (BNMPA), an impurity of illicit methamphetamine synthesis, was also detected in the urine. Since these impurities can be characteristic of a particular synthetic method, their presence in seized samples or their detection in biological samples from methamphetamine users can further be used to monitor the sales of precursor chemicals, group seized compounds to common sources of illicit production or provide links between manufacturers, dealers and users.
Handbook of Electrical Hazards and Accidents
Authors: Goodson ME
Published: August 2015

This reviewer was very excited when news of the upcoming book by Mr. Geddes was released. There has been a need in the forensic community for a good treatise on electrical accidents and deaths, and certainly the author is qualified to write in this area. After reading this text, this reviewer is of the opinion that this book will have some value to the forensic practitioner, but that it is not the ideal text for either the pathologist or the engineer investigating electrical injuries or deaths.
Chemiluminescent Detection of RFLP Patterns in Forensic DNA Analysis
Authors: Johnson ED , Kotowski TM
Published: August 2015

DNA testing by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis is an extremely important technique used in forensic science laboratories. While RFLP testing is a highly informative method, it traditionally has had several disadvantages. It is time consuming and involves work with radioactive phosphorous. A detection method that is faster and safer than isotopic detection is presented. Various membranes, fixation methods and transfer procedures were evaluated for DNA retention and sensitivity using alkaline phosphatase conjugated oligonucleotide probes and a chemiluminescent substrate. Blood samples and evidentiary material from forensic casework were analyzed by both chemiluminescent and isotopic detection. Results of each method were compared for pattern appearance, band size, and composite profile frequency. The chemiluminescent system had very good sensitivity, detecting 3–25 ng K562 DNA. Most patterns developed by both methods appeared the same. The variation observed between band sizes and frequency estimates generated by each method was as expected for an inter-gel comparison. The chemiluminescent detection procedure described here is suitable for use in forensic casework.
Extent of Heterogeneity in Mitochondrial DNA of Ethnic Asian Populations
Authors: Melton T , Stoneking M
Published: August 2015

Variation in the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) control region as detected by sequence-specific oligonucleotide (SSO) probes is described for 993 individuals in 11 ethnic Asian populations. Estimates of diversity for mtDNA types exceed 0.94 in all populations, while 53% of the 255 types that were observed occur only once. Of 96 shared types, four occur at frequencies of greater than 10% but less than 17% in any one population. There is statistically significant heterogeneity among these 11 populations, however, an analysis of variance incorporating genetic distances between types shows that at least 95% of the variation present in the total sample is attributable to within-population diversity, while only 5% is due to between-population differences. Overall, heterogeneity with respect to mtDNA SSO types is grossly correlated with geographic distance between populations; the most extreme heterogeneity was observed between populations from East Asia and populations from West Asia. With respect to population genetics, the control region of mtDNA exhibits satisfactory qualities as a DNA typing locus.
Evaluating DNA Profile Evidence When the Suspect Is Identified Through a Database Search
Authors: Balding DJ , Donnelly P
Published: August 2015

The paper is concerned with the strength of DNA evidence when a suspect is identified via a search through a database of the DNA profiles of known individuals. Consideration of the appropriate likelihood ratio shows that in this setting the DNA evidence is (slightly) stronger than when a suspect is identified by other means, subsequently profiled, and found to match. The recommendation of the 1992 report of the US National Research Council that DNA evidence that is used to identify the suspect should not be presented at trial thus seems unnecessarily conservative. The widely held view that DNA evidence is weaker when it results from a database search seems to be based on a rationale that leads to absured conclusions in some examples. Moreover, this view is inconsistent with the principle, which enjoys substantial support, that evidential weight should be measured by likelihood ratios. The strength of DNA evidence is shown also to be slightly increased for other forms of search procedure. While the DNA evidence is stronger after a database search, the overall case against the suspect may not be, and the problems of incorporating the DNA with the non-DNA evidence can be particularly important in such cases.
Identification of N-Acetylmethamphetamine in a Sample of Illicitly Synthesized Methamphetamine
Authors: Conn C , Dawson M , Baker AT , Keegan J , Fryirs B
Published: August 2015

Analysis of illicit methamphetamine samples revealed the presence of a hitherto unreported impurity. This was identified as N-acetylmethamphetamine by synthesis and GC-MS. This impurity is believed to arise by transesterification of methamphetamine during reflux with propyl acetate. Other circumstantial evidence and intelligence data indicate that propyl acetate was used to increase yields of methamphetamine hydrochloride by azeotropic removal of water remaining after salt formation with aqueous hydrochloric acid.
Disturbances in the Soil: Finding Buried Bodies and Other Evidence Using Ground Penetrating Radar
Authors: Miller PS
Published: August 2015

Ground penetrating radar (GPR) is an efficient and effective means to search for buried evidence, whether it be a clandestine grave, formal burial, or certain missing articles from a crime scene. The procedures for GPR used by the U.S. Army Central Identification Laboratory, Hawaii (CILHI), are the result of several years of experimentation on a variety of ground surfaces in Hawaii, Southeast Asia and the mainland U.S. This remote sensing method does not usually provide direct information that there is a body or other specific object beneath the ground. Most of the time the GPR has been used to determine where a target object is not located. The key feature of GPR is that it can detect recent changes in shallow soil conditions caused by the disturbance of soil and the intrusion of different material.

Using the methods described here, the investigator should be able to determine the precise metric grid coordinates for a subsurface disturbance, as well as the approximate size, the general shape, and the depth of the buried material. Success will vary with soil conditions. The conditions suitable or not practical for using GPR are summarized. This remote sensing technology can have wider use in crime scene investigations due to the recent introduction of more user-friendly software and more portable hardware.
Genetic Polymorphism of the Inter-Alpha-Trypsin Inhibitor (ITI) in Cádiz Province, Southern Spain
Authors: Palanco JLR , Morales RR , Rojas MAV , Lucas JJG , Martinez MIA
Published: August 2015

The results of a study of Inter-Alpha-Trypsin Inhibitor (ITI) polymorphism in 281 blood samples are reported in this paper. These samples were taken from healthy individuals of both sexes, unrelated and resident in the Province of Cadiz. The frequency of ITI*1 was 0.617 and of ITI*2 was 0.383. The probability of exclusion in paternity testing was 0.18.
Hungarian Population Data on Seven PCR-Based Loci
Authors: Budowle B , Woller J , Koons BW , Furedi S , Errera JD , Padar Z
Published: August 2015

Hungarian population data for the loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, HLA-DQA1, and D1S80 were generated. The genotype frequency distributions for the loci do not deviate from Hardy Weinberg expectations. Furthermore, there was little evidence for departures from expectations of independence between the loci. Using a test for homogeneity all the loci were similar between two Hungarian population samples and only the HLA-DQA1 locus was statistically different between Hungarians and US Caucasians. There generally would be little forensic differences, whether a Hungarian or a US Caucasian database was used, for estimating multiple locus profile frequencies for the seven PCR-based loci.
Hair and Fiber Transfer in an Abduction Case—Evidence from Different Levels of Trace Evidence Transfer
Authors: Taupin JM
Published: August 2015

Levels of trace evidence transfer were examined in a casework context. A girl was allegedly abducted in a car and rape attempted by the accused, who denied any contact with the victim. Clothing worn by the victim and the accused, and the covers from the front seats of the car, were analyzed for trace evidence. Three types of corresponding fibers and four possible pathways of transfer were identified. Synthetic fibers similar to those composing the car seat covers were located on the victim's clothing, consistent with direct transfer. Secondary transfer was indicated by dyed brown human head-type hairs (possibly originating from the accused's wife) located on the seat covers and on the victim's clothing. Secondary and possibly tertiary transfer was indicated by pink synthetic material and associated fibers (possibly originating from the victim's mother) located on the victim's clothing, a car seat cover and the accused's clothing. Light microscopy, comparison microscopy, and cross-sectioning techniques were used. The multiple fiber matches and the differing pathways and levels of transfer increased the strength of the association between the accused and the victim. After the fiber evidence was led at the trial, the accused pleaded guilty, thereby affirming the value of secondary transfer evidence.
The Recovery of Seminal Components and DNA from the Vagina of a Homicide Victim 34 Days Postmortem
Authors: Montagna CP
Published: August 2015

The body of an 18-year-old female was discovered in a gravel pit in Northern Maine. Investigation determined the body to be that of a woman who had disappeared from the Bangor, Maine area 34 days earlier. Laboratory examination revealed the presence of intact spermatozoa, P30 and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) typable DNA on a vaginal swab and smear slide collected at autopsy.
Pseudonecrophilia Following Spousal Homicide
Authors: Reid Meloy J
Published: August 2015

A case of pseudonecrophilia by a 26-year-old male following the multiple stabbing death of his wife is reported. Intoxicated with alcohol at the time, the man positioned the corpse of his spouse to facilitate vaginal intercourse with her in the lithotomy position while he viewed soft core pornography on television. Clinical interview, a review of history, and psychological testing revealed diagnoses of antisocial personality disorder and major depression (DSM-IV, American Psychiatric Association, 1994). There was no evidence of psychosis, but some indices of mild neuropsychological impairment. The motivations for this rare case of pseudonecrophilia are discussed in relation to extant research, and a cautionary note is offered in assuming sexual causality in the investigation of homicides when there is evidence of sexual arousal or activity by the perpetrator.
Economic Dimensions of Slip and Fall Injuries
Authors: Englander F , Hodson TJ , Terregrossa RA
Published: August 2015

This paper provides an update of annual economic costs imposed by fall injuries. Such costs include medical, rehabilitation, hospital costs, and the costs of morbidity and mortality. These costs are projected to the year 2020, based on changing demographic trends.

The market for slip and fall injury prevention is analyzed for the elderly and for those in the workplace—two high risk groups. Questions as to whether this market operates in a socially desirable manner, or whether government intervention is justified on efficiency grounds, are considered.

Essential aspects of cost-benefit analysis are reviewed in the context of a prospective evaluation of interventions to prevent slip and fall injuries. The cost-benefit analysis framework is applied to part of the FICSIT experiment (a major intervention to reduce falls among the elderly) and to recent revisions in Occupational Safety and Health Administration regulations directed at reducing workplace falls.
The Application of Forensic Biomechanics to the Resolution of Unwitnessed Falling Accidents
Authors: Sacher A
Published: August 2015

Following a brief review of the biomechanics of walking and slipping, vis-à-vis, tripping and stumbling, the application of forensic methodology is demonstrated in an alleged slip and fall accident. The three types of missteps which lead to falls, viz., slips, trips and stumbles, are defined and clearly distinguished, not only by mode of initiation, but also by the termination step, i.e., the direction of fall, the landing distance from misstep initiation, the ground and body impact sites, the body's final position/orientation, and the nature and severity of the injuries. Such detailed information, rarely appreciated or volunteered by a plaintiff, must be painstakingly elicited or developed independently by scrupulous investigation. Further, it is important to determine whether a plaintiff's initial description of an accident to medical providers (EMS, ER nurse, and physician) is reasonably consistent with the litigation version, and also, our current understanding of the biomechanics of falling accidents. In this instance, an elderly female purportedly slipped and fell on a wet floor and sustained a severe neck injury which resulted in quadriplegia. The prima facie evidence produced by the victim's expert, a consulting engineer, was compelling, albeit simplistically limited to a comparison of the “wet” and “dry” static coefficient of friction of the subject floor with “Industry Standards.” The author's examination of other salient contributory factors provided a more defensible rationale with respect to the proximate cause of the plaintiff's falling accident. After reviewing the usual litigation documents and measurements of the subject floor's dimensions and slip resistance, the investigation focused on the plaintiff's footwear, medical records, and rather limited recall or awareness of actually slipping or even falling. The author concluded that the probability was extremely small that this partly witnessed “fall” was the product of a “slip” on a wet surface, especially when compared with established biomechanical models. Instead, it is suggested that the “fall” stemmed from either a trip/stumble or a “collapse”—the sequela of the “victim's” chronic, serious medical problems and recognized age-related locomotor deficiencies.
The Role of Forensic Anthropology in the Recovery and Analysis of Branch Davidian Compound Victims: Assessing the Accuracy of Age Estimations
Authors: Houck MM , Ubelaker D , Owsley D , Craig E , Grant W , Fram R , Woltanski T , Sandness K
Published: August 2015

Age-at-death estimations of 44 individuals (27 adults, 17 children) from the Branch Davidian sample were compared with their actual ages. Estimations were evaluated for bias and accuracy for the actual age at death. Although the overall average estimates correlated well with the actual ages (r = 0.946), several individuals displayed high residual requiring further analysis and review. These individuals displayed age-related features that did not correspond with the expected morphology for individuals of their ages. Several age estimation techniques scored these individuals with all bias in the same direction. These examples should serve as cautionary reminders that biology does not always correlate with expected outcomes, particularly in such multifaceted traits such as age.
Identification and Quantitation of Source from Hemoglobin of Blood and Blood Mixtures by High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Espinoza EO , Kirms MA , Filipek MS
Published: August 2015

The described technique offers a sensitive and reproducible method for inferring the source of over 50 different animal species from bloodstains and blood mixtures. Hemoglobins from each of the species were examined using reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) in chromatographic times of less than 25 mins. The HPLC method complements and furthers current methodology for identification of species of origin. HPLC analysis is particularly well suited for the quantitative analysis of blood and blood mixtures and is applicable to species for which antisera are unavailable. The sensitivity of the method (hemoglobin amounts down to 1.2 µg) lends itself to the analysis of blood mixtures in which only a small percentage of the mixture represents blood from a given species. Such resolution and quantitation is applicable to wildlife forensic casework.
Microreflectance FTIR Techniques Applied to Materials Encountered in Forensic Examination of Documents
Authors: Andrasko J
Published: August 2015

Microreflectance Fourier transform infrared spectrometry (FTIR) has been applied to the forensic examination of documents. The materials examined were black printing inks, paper, plastics, photocopy toners, and transfer letters (Letra set). Good discrimination was achieved between different samples of these materials. Euclidean distances were calculated on the bases of first derivatives of measured FTIR reflectance spectra. Some results were compared with those obtained by diffuse reflectance FTIR. Microreflectance FTIR is nondestructive to the materials and may be used as a complement to optical techniques for examination of documents.
Repeat Visitors to a Pediatric Forensic Medicine Program
Authors: Handy TC , Nichols GR , Smock WS
Published: August 2015

Since the inception in 1990 of a Clinical Forensic Medicine Program at the Louisville Office of the Kentucky Medical Examiner Program, six children have undergone repeat evaluations for physical injuries. Herein, we examine the overall number of cases from January 1991 through December 1994, and the circumstances and outcomes of the six children undergoing reevaluation. Despite the implementation of an organized Forensic Medicine Program, some children in our area suffer repeated episodes of recognized abuse and death.
The Storage of Forensic Urine Drug Specimens as Dry Stains: Recovery and Stability
Authors: DuBey IS , Caplan YH
Published: August 2015

The feasibility of storing forensic urine drug specimens as dry stains on Whatman #3 paper was studied by evaluating the stability of the drugs and recovery from the stains. Drug stains prepared from urine (3 mL) were stored at − 20°C, 4°C, and at room temperature for a period of 12 weeks. The study included: amphetamine, benzoylecgonine, 11-nor-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabino-9-carboxylic acid (THC-COOH), morphine, and phencyclidine (PCP) as examples of the HHS regulated drug classes. Drugs were eluted from the stains as follows: methanol:saline (1:1) for PCP and THC-COOH, saline for benzoylecgonine and carbonate/bicarbonate buffer pH 9.2 for amphetamine and morphine. Stains were eluted from the support matrix (Whatman #3 filter paper), extracted and analyzed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. All drugs were stable under all of the storage conditions except the THC-COOH urine stain stored at room temperature that degraded to zero after 12 weeks. Therefore, drug stains when kept frozen or refrigerated appear to provide a viable means for storing positive urine specimens.
Analysis of the VNTR Locus DXS52 by the Amp-FLP Technique
Authors: Yun WM , Yun SG
Published: August 2015

The locus DXS52 is useful genetic marker system for forensic analysis. It consists of a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTR) and can be analyzed by the Amp-FLP technique. As accurate data about the distribution of the alleles are among the most important prerequisites for the application in forensic biology, we studied the allele distribution of DXS52 locus in a Chinese population and applied the established technique to paternity testing.
Effect of Background Interference on Accelerant Detection by Canines
Authors: Kurz ME , Schultz S , Griffith J , Broadus K , Sparks J , Dabdoub G , Brock J
Published: August 2015

Additional studies were performed with respect to examining the lower limits at which canines can reliably detect products commonly used as accelerants and distinguish them from pyrolysis products or background hydrocarbons. As part of a testing exercise performed in conjunction with a national conference of the Canine Accelerant Detection Association (CADA), 34 canines were subjected to a series of tests, some of them were a recertification proficiency. In one of the tests, the dogs were nearly unanimously successful in locating one can (out of five) containing 50% evaporated gasoline at the 5 μL level on a burnt carpet matrix, and pinpointing the 6-in. square sector on a piece of plain carpeting where the same amount of gasoline (5 μL) was applied. However, only half were able to detect a second doped sample containing a lesser amount (0.05, 0.1, or 0.2 μL) of gasoline, and registered a number of alerts on samples containing only burnt carpeting material. The dogs were also tested on measured amounts (2 or 5 μL) of a variety of other light, medium, and heavy petroleum products applied to a variety of substances containing significant pyrolysis products. As a group, the canines were much less successful in pinpointing these products than they were with gasoline at this same level, and again registered a number of alerts on cans containing only pyrolysis products. The significant number of alerts by canines on samples not containing gasoline or other products points out the importance of obtaining laboratory confirmation on samples on which dogs alert, and on keeping accurate field and training records of the canines to establish their credibility.
Determination of Hydrocodone in Tussionex® Extended-Release Suspension by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
Authors: Hadzija BW , Shrewsbury RP
Published: August 2015

The high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method presented is a simple and rapid analytical procedure for the determination of hydrocodone in Tussionex Pennkinetic® extended-release suspension in the presence of chlorpheniramine and several excipients. Hydrocodone was extracted and separated from the suspension with methylene chloride under alkaline pH conditions. Sample recoveries were from 99.6 to 104.3%. Satisfactory resolution was obtained using a C8 column (Alltech 10μM, 25-cm by 4.6-mm inside diameter) and a mobile phase consisting of acetonitrile buffered at pH 4.5 (0.01M KH2PO4 and 0.05M KNO3) maintaining a flow rate of 1.4 mL/min. Corresponding run time for the complete separation of hydrocodone was around 14 min. The method was used to determine the concentration of HCD in five Tussionex® extended-release suspension samples that have been tampered with and in one control sample.
A Review of “Crime Scene”
Authors: Fitzpatrick FA
Published: August 2015

This paperback book is described in the introduction as “an encyclopedia of forensic science information.” It is directed to the “interested layman” and “also for the police officers and attorneys 9 and crime writers.” It has 23 photographs and several drawings. The author, Larry Ragle, is the former Director of Forensic Science Services for the Orange County Sheriff-Coroner Department in California, a long-time Academy fellow, and, as the book jacket reminds us, he lent his expertise to the O. J. Simpson defense team. I have had the pleasure of knowing him for the last 22 years.
Ethical Practice in the Forensic Sciences and Justification of Ethical Codes
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

“Ethical Practice in the Forensic Sciences” is both the theme for the AAFS convention in New York City in February 1997 and the focus of considerable media concern about our profession. It is common for discussions about professional ethics to be more notable for heat than for light. Everyone tends to be certain of his/her own ethical probity, and to feel certain that he/she needs minimal or no further formal training in ethics. Nevertheless, conceptual clarity and sound reasoning are often lacking in ethical discourse. This will provide a brief introduction to thinking more clearly about the subject.
Site to Site Variability of Postmortem Drug Concentrations in Liver and Lung
Authors: Pounder DJ , Adams E , Fuke C , Langford AM
Published: August 2015

We evaluated postmortem diffusion of gastric drug residue into tissues and blood in eight suicidal overdoses. Analyses were performed on liver (five sites), lung (four sites), spleen, psoas muscle and kidney (left and right), blood (peripheral and torso), vitreous, pericardial fluid, bile and, urine as well as residual gastric contents. Standard anlytical techniques and instrumentation gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer and high performance liquid chromatography (GC-MS and HPLC) were used throughout. These case studies confirm previous studies of an animal and human cadaver model of gastric diffusion, in that in several instances there was drug accumulation in the left posterior margin of the liver and, to a lesser extent, the left basal lobe of the lung. Uncontrollable variables, such as postmortem interval, refrigeration before autopsy, and position of the body appear to influence significantly drug accumulation in a specific site. We suggest that autopsy sampling techniques should be standardized on blood taken from a ligated peripheral (preferably femoral or external iliac) vein, and liver from deep within the right lobe.
Preliminary Practical Findings on Drug Monitoring by a Transcutaneous Collection Device
Authors: Skopp G , Pötsch L , Eser H-P , Möller MR
Published: August 2015

A noninvasive and nonocclusive skin patch (Sudormed™) was investigated for the systematic collection of drugs of abuse over a period of several days. First, the applicability and user friendliness were tested by volunteers. The permeability of the polyurethane dressing from the outside to the inside for an aqueous solution was shown by incubating the outside layer with Rhodamine B. No fluorescence could be detected in the cotton pad beneath. A single dose experiment using theophylline as a model compound showed that there was a delay in time before the substance could be determined in the pad. The drug content decreased with increasing time of patch application. When eight volunteers participating in a methadone treatment were monitored, the substitute drug could always be detected in the patch associated with a minor concentration of EDDP. Besides, in some of the patches investigated, indications for an abuse of cocaine and heroin were found. The so-called sweat patch appears to be a valuable tool in clinical and forensic toxicology, as it offers a longer and prospective surveillance period compared with blood and urine testing.
Family Background of Drug-Related Deaths: A Descriptive Study Based on Interviews with Relatives of Deceased Drug Users
Authors: Risser D , Bönsch A , Schneider B
Published: August 2015

Drug abuse and problems arising from it are increasing all over the world. Most of the research concerning substance abuse has focused on three dimensions: sociocultural influences, personal characteristics, and interpersonal factors. The aim of this descriptive study was to describe family characteristics of drug-related deaths examined at the Viennese Institute of Forensic Medicine in 1993. Furthermore, it was of interest to analyze the onset of substance use as well as traumatic life events during childhood. For this purpose, relatives or partners for life of drug-related deaths, examined from 1 Jan. to 30 June 1993 at the Institute of Forensic Medicine in Vienna, were interviewed using a semistructured technique. Eighty percent of drug users were reported to have experienced a traumatic event during their childhood. In the majority, this was the parents' divorce or the death of a parent. Male drug users were significantly younger at time of this event than females. The first signs of smoking and alcohol drinking of examined drug users, as recognized by the interviewees, occurred at the age of about 15. Those who experienced a traumatic event during their childhood started to smoke at a significantly lower age. In ¾ of investigated cases, parents also were smokers, and more than one third of families had a problem drinker, mostly the father. In 16% of drug users, a mental disturbance concerning the mother was reported, and in 14%, prescribed psychoactive drugs were regularly used. Physical violence, generally by the father, was a common phenomenon in 20% of investigated families. About 45% of the victims were from families having more than one of these factors present.
The Possibility of Using Elemental Analysis to Identify Debris from the Cutting of Mild Steel
Authors: Poolman DG , Chris Pistorius P
Published: August 2015

The debris produced by abrasive and oxygen-acetylene cutting of mild steel has been examined by scanning electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, and X-ray diffraction, to establish which of these techniques are useful to test whether debris originated from a given source. Because of its poor sensitivity to trace amounts of elements, energy-dispersive X-ray analysis cannot be used for this purpose. However, when analyzed by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry, the line intensities from chromium, nickel, cadmium, zinc, and copper in debris were mostly within 30% of the intensities for the source of the debris (with the intensities expressed relative to that from manganese). It was found that the morphology of the debris (as studied by scanning electron microscopy) did not give an unambiguous indication of the cutting technique, although X-ray diffraction did reveal that the debris from oxygen-acetylene cutting was oxidized to a greater degree than that from abrasive cutting.
The Use of FTIR Microspectroscopy for the Identification of Thermally Changed Fibers
Authors: Wąs J , Knittel D , Schollmeyer E
Published: August 2015

The analysis of thermally changed, e.g., melted, decomposed, burned, or incinerated textile fibers by FTIR spectroscopy is described. This method allows us to observe the pathway of fiber thermal degradation and to find the chemical (organic and inorganic) compounds in degraded fibers. The results of these examinations can be applied in the forensic analysis for the identification and differentiation between thermally changed fibers.
DNA Typing of Fingerprint Reagent Treated Biological Stains
Authors: Stein C , Kyeck SH , Henssge C
Published: August 2015

DNA profiling was performed on bloodstains and saliva on various supports after treatment with commonly used reagents for developing latent fingerprints. The results showed no effect of investigated dactyloscopic methods on DNA typing compared with untreated samples.
HLA DQA1 and Polymarker Validations for Forensic Casework: Standard Specimens, Reproducibility, and Mixed Specimens
Authors: Marie Gross A , Guerrieri RA
Published: August 2015

This study describes the testing performed by the Minnesota Forensic Science Laboratory (MFSL) to validate the Amplitype® DQA1 and Amplitype® Polymarker (PM) PCR Amplification and Typing Kits before implementation for casework.

All studies were based on the analysis of mock forensic case samples, which were assembled from various biological samples from individuals at the MFSL.

To address the validation of standard specimens, DNA was isolated from semen, vaginal secretions, saliva, urine, and blood samples. Typing results from all tissues from a particular individual yielded the same typing results using both the DQA1 and PM systems.

Reproducibility between laboratories was evaluated by having duplicate samples analyzed by a second laboratory. The Roche Biomedical Laboratories (RBL) were sent a duplicate set of mock cases and all analyses including extraction, quantitation, amplification, and typing were performed at the RBL using their established testing procedures. All typing results for both laboratories, from the approximate 30 single source samples analyzed, were in agreement.

Mixed specimens were evaluated by examining the results obtained from semen/vaginal, semen/saliva, semen/blood, semen/urine, and semen/vaginal/blood mixtures. All typing results of these mixtures for both laboratories were in agreement. It was determined that by incorporating a wash step of the sperm cell pellet, a complete separation of the nonsperm cell fraction was more likely to be attained.

After completing the above studies, as well as population studies, environmental insult studies, and proficiency testing, the MFSL determined that both kits were suitable for use on forensic casework.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy as an Aid to Imaging Latent Fingermarks in the Ultraviolet
Authors: Bramble SK
Published: August 2015

Two- and three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopic data have been recorded from sebum-rich latent fingermarks on quartz and white card. The fingermark residue was found to fluoresce between 310 to 380 nm and have an excitation range between 260 to 300 nm. The data are used to describe the results observed when imaging the inherent ultraviolet photoluminescence of latent fingermarks.
The Determination of Phencyclidine in Meconium Using Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Moore CM , Lewis DE , Leikin JB
Published: August 2015

The use of meconium to determine the exposure of a fetus to drugs of abuse is becoming a widely accepted protocol. However, the quantity of sample available for testing varies greatly between newborns and the material itself is complex in nature. Because of the small amount often collected, the sensitivity of analytical assay is extremely important. A confirmatory procedure for the determination of phencyclidine (PCP) in meconium using the selected ion storage (SIS) functions of an ion trap mass spectrometer is reported. The method is reproducible and detector response is linear over the range 0 to 250 ng/g. The limit of detection is 5 ng/g which provides a significant improvement in sensitivity over selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode electron impact quadropole analysis. The method is currently applied in our laboratory where the confirmation of PCP in meconium is a required analytical procedure. It is particularly useful for the analysis of meconium in which sample size is limited and sensitivity is an important factor.
Characterization of Acetaminophen: Molecular Microanalysis with Raman Microprobe Spectroscopy
Authors: Pestaner JP , Mullick FG , Centeno JA
Published: August 2015

The in situ spectroscopic identification of acetaminophen in a fatal overdose case is described. Numerous techniques have been used to analyze acetaminophen in biological fluids, however, the use of nondestructive spectroscopic techniques has not been documented. In this investigation, the demonstration of the drug material was established by using the laser Raman microprobe technique, providing an accurate identification by virtue of the drug's molecular fingerprint characteristics. Material found on the deceased was collected and placed on metal (aluminum-coated) plated slides and excited with the 514.5 nm line of an argon ion laser, which was focused to a 1 µm spot size using a high-resolution optical microscope. Spectra of acetaminophen particles with an average size of 5 to 8 µm were obtained. The Raman spectrum of this drug contains characteristic group frequencies assigned to the C=O at 1649 cm−1, the N-H deformation mode at 1620 to 1612 cm−1, the bendstretch mode of the H-N-C=O at 1562 cm−1, the C-H bending mode at 1325 cm−1, and the phenyl ring stretch at 799 cm−1, respectively. The results reported here demonstrate the capability of laser Raman microprobe as a useful adjunct tool for the identification of foreign materials in forensic pathology.
Investigation of a Murder Case Involving Arson
Authors: Tsaroom S
Published: August 2015

In some religious societies, the value of life seems to be different from that in western nonreligious societies. Violating the family honor could result in killing. This article presents a case in which a Moslem Israeli citizen killed his daughter. Professional field work, together with forensic laboratory examinations, led to life imprisonment of the father.
GC/MS Comparison of the West Indian Aphrodisiac “Love Stone” to the Chinese Medication “Chan Su”: Bufotenine and Related Bufadienolides
Authors: Barry TL , Petzinger G , William Zito S
Published: August 2015

The death of a 23-year-old man resulting from digoxin-like toxicity and heart failure was attributed to ingestion of a West Indian aphrodisiac known as “Love Stone.” GC/MS analyses identified bufotenine, a controlled substance under both US and New York State statutes. In addition, a series of bufadienolides, namely resibufogenin, bufalin, and cinobufagin, were also identified. Bufadienolides, which are derived from toad venom or secretions, are cardiotonic steroids that cause symptoms similar to digoxin. GC/MS analyses of the Chinese medication “Chan Su,” a product derived from toads, produced a highly similar elution profile and contained the same compounds as “Love Stone.” The data demonstrate that the aphrodisiac was also derived from toads.
Suicidal Chloroquine Poisoning: Clinical Course, Autopsy Findings, and Chemical Analysis
Authors: M Muhm , Stimpfl T , Malzer R , Mortinger H , Binder R , Vycudilik W , Berzlanovich A , Bauer G , Laggner AN
Published: August 2015

Suicidal overdose of chloroquine is rare. We present a 14-year-old girl who was admitted to our Emergency Department after intentional ingestion of 7.5 g of chloroquine base followed by cardiac and respiratory arrest. Despite early mechanical ventilation, cardiac support, and treatment with high doses of diazepam, the patient died. Laboratory investigation indicated disseminated intravascular coagulation confirmed by petechial hemorhages in the leptomeninges at autopsy, a finding that has not previously been described. Postmortem tissue analysis demonstrated early drug distribution to the medulla oblongata and cerebellum.