bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pathological Intoxication and Alcohol Idiosyncratic Intoxication—Part II: Legal Aspects
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

The law does not generally allow alcohol intoxication as a defense in a criminal matter. Among the exceptions may be pathological intoxication, or PI, or its current psychiatric correlate, alcohol idiosyncratic intoxication (AII). Because of the lack of specificity in the medical concept and the varying approaches by different authors, careful analysis and adherence to current standards are necessary. Relevant laws, particularly that of the model penal code, are reviewed, as are three cases which demonstrate the issues involved. Actual testimony is presented to illustrate possible misuse or inappropriate use of the concept.
Applications of Isoelectric Focusing in Forensic Serology
Authors: Murch RS , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

The typing of certain polymorphic proteins present in human body fluids is an important aspect of the analysis of serological evidence. This is particularly true when dealing with evidence related to violent criminal activity such as homocide, assault, or rape. Until recently, the routine analysis of the genetic polymorphisms of interest relied upon conventional electrophoretic techniques such as horizontal starch or agarose slab gel or both, cellulose acetate, and vertical polyacrylamide gradient gel methods. These techniques adequately separate a limited number of common variants. In some cases, these methods are still those of choice. However, as a result of the nature of the conventional approach, problems with time required for analysis, resolution, diffusion of bands, sensitivity of protein detection, and cost are often encountered. Isoelectric focusing (IEF) offers an effective alternative to conventional electrophoresis for genetic marker typing. This method exploits the isoelectric point of allelic products rather than charge-to-mass ratio in a particular pH environment. The advantages of employing IEF include: reduction of time of analysis, increased resolution of protein bands, the possibility of subtyping existing phenotypes, increased sensitivity of detection, the counteraction of diffusion effects, and reduced cost per sample.
Speed Analysis of Passenger Cars in Free-Fall Launch Motions
Authors: Le Fevre WF
Published: August 2015

Applied forensic engineering in the field of accident reconstruction is often required to determine vehicle speeds in crash and collision cases. One type of automobile crash is that in which a car becomes airborne after being launched from an abrupt change of ground contour. This treatise covers an analysis of speed at launch based on measured distances from a launch surface to the landing point and on the slope of the launch surface. A refinement is introduced accounting for the effect of pitch motion of the vehicle to obtain a more accurate evaluation of speed.
Forensic Science Applications of Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS): I. Principles, Sampling Methods, and Advantages
Authors: Suzuki EM , Gresham WR
Published: August 2015

Diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) is a recently developed technique that offers several significant advantages over conventional methods of sampling solids. Some of these include: (1) minimal sample preparation (no sample preparation in a few cases); (2) a very wide range of sample concentrations which yield useful spectra; and (3) a very high sensitivity (less than 100 ng in some cases). DRIFTS has been applied to the analysis of a number of materials of forensic science interest. Specific applications for a variety of evidence types have been found; this work is therefore presented as a series. This paper presents the principles of the technique and examples of the sampling methods, including a microsampling method for liquids. Some of the unique advantages that DRIFTS offers for forensic science work, including better characterization of many compounds, are illustrated. In addition, an explanation of these DRIFTS features is discussed.
Design and Use of a Computer-Assisted Postmortem Identification System
Authors: Lorton L , Langley WH
Published: August 2015

The organization and rationale for the design of a computer-assisted postmortem identification system are discussed along with results of the use of this system in extensive simulation trials on a database of 578 records. The selectivity of dental characteristics is so great that any individual with 4 or more characteristics (either fillings or missing teeth), can be separated from a group of 578 people for final verification of the identity match. The effects of errors in the database are discussed and the actual effects of different error rates on identification are shown. Error rates of up to 30% have only small effects on the ability of the system to pick out correct identity matches. The system is presently implemented on a portable microcomputer, a representative desktop computer, and a large minicomputer. The present efforts include statistical analysis of an enlarged database and testing of a data acquisition system to allow the building of a large identification database (25 000 records) in a quick and economical manner.
Correlation of Age and Incremental Lines in the Cementum of Human Teeth
Authors: Lipsinic FE , Paunovich E , Houston GD , Robison SF
Published: August 2015

It has been long recognized that cementum thickness increases with age. Much literature has recently been devoted to utilizing incremental lines in cementum as an aging criterion in animals, but only one study has been done suggesting this technique in humans. Thirty-one teeth of known age were histologically stained and sectioned to observe incremental lines. Direct predictions of age based on these lines underestimated the age of older specimens. However, there was a correlation between number of lines and age, and with a large enough specimen size, a computer-generated formula for age prediction may be possible.
Determination of Age from the Sternal Rib in White Females: A Test of the Phase Method
Authors: İşcan MY , Loth SR
Published: August 2015

Sex differences in both the rate and pattern of aging in the sternal extremity of the rib necessitated the development of separate standards of age determination for males and females. A test of the male phase technique has already demonstrated its reliability and soundness. The present study was carried out to evaluate the female phase standards. A sample of 10 test ribs including 2 control specimens, was judged by 28 volunteers representing several levels of education and experience in the forensic and anthropological sciences. As in the male test, the judges were asked to assign each unknown rib to an age phase by comparing it with photographs of prototype specimens from the original study. Analysis of the results revealed minimal interobserver error between the doctoral and predoctoral groups, and no discernible association between morphological variation in the rib and antemortem history. Furthermore, rib assignment for both groups of judges averaged well within 1 phase of the ideal phase in which the specimen would have been placed based solely on chronological age.
The Proof in Law of Suicide
Authors: Massello W
Published: August 2015

The certification of suicide as the manner of death is frequently contested in court by the victim's survivors, particularly when there are life insurance benefits at stake. The evidence upon which the opinion of suicide is based must, therefore, meet the standard of proof required in law, if it is to be sustained by the courts. This standard of proof and some of its contingent common law doctrines are discussed, with references to several judicial opinions from cases which involved contested suicides.
Schizotypal Personality Disorder and the Insanity Defense
Authors: Felthous AR
Published: August 2015

What constitutes a “mental disorder” for purposes of the insanity defense? Does mental disorder denote any diagnosable condition listed in the third edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders? Is a mental disorder a disturbance wherein the functional criteria of the appropriate insanity law appear to be met? Or does insanity law define mental disorder apart from functional criteria of insanity? The answer to the last question is that some insanity laws attempt to define or qualify mental disorder, but many do not. Unclarities in the law leave room for unnecessary disagreements between expert witnesses even before the functional criteria for insanity are to be addressed. The potential for confusion is compounded when the defendant's disturbance is ambiguous, amphibious, or both. Schizotypal personality disorder is offered as an example of such a disturbance, and inferences are discussed.
A Diagnostic Study of the Criminal Alias
Authors: Harry B
Published: August 2015

The author found that 64 (30.9%) of 207 incarcerated male offenders had been officially recognized as having changed their names at some time. The most common ways in which their names were modified included changing the middle name or initial, changing the spelling of one name, or completely changing all three names. These alias users were older property offenders who had more prior arrests, less education, more tattoos, more prior psychiatric contact, and were more often alcoholics than alias nonusers. While these findings are consistent with intentional deception, they also suggest that criminal alias users may have a pathological self concept.
Suicide in Fulton County, Georgia (1975–1984)
Authors: Gowitt GT , Hanzlick RL
Published: August 2015

Demographic and trend analysis of 881 consecutive suicides in blacks and whites is presented. For the years 1975 through 1984, the suicide rate was 15.1/100 000 and did not significantly change. White males were overrepresented in all age groups, had an overall suicide rate of 34.9, and showed a small but statistically significant increase in rate which was not accounted for by any specific age group. White females, in general, were represented in proportion to their prevalence in the population, and those ages 20 to 24 demonstrated an increasing suicide rate which was small. Black males were at highest risk in their twenties, showed no significant trends, and were also represented near their prevalence in the population. Black females of all ages were underrepresented, and had low suicide rates which decreased with time. No significant rate changes were noted for teenagers or the elderly. Firearms was the method of choice in all groups, although methods varied with age, race, and sex, and male children preferred hanging. Small but significant increases were noted for the prevalence of nondrug methods in females and carbon monoxide deaths in white males. Similarities and differences to larger scale studies are discussed. Suicide may have characteristics unique to given geographical areas and pervasive to all areas. The authors advocate study and publication of local data to clarify further the nature of suicide.
Quick Test for Accelerants after Steam Distillation
Authors: Fulton BA , Meloan CE
Published: August 2015

Gage-O® paste for gasoline detection is placed on a 3-mm diameter glass rod and inserted for 30 s into the water-organic interface of the distillate in the Barrett receiver after steam distilling the suspected residue. If accelerants such as gasoline, turpentine, paint thinner, or brush cleaner are present, a small white line, which fluoresces intensely with long wavelength ultraviolet radiation, appears. The remaining accelerant can be confirmed by separation with gas chromatography.
Lightning Damage of Bearing Surfaces in Turboprop Aircraft Engines
Authors: Hart RK , Anderson DM
Published: August 2015

During the servicing of turboprop engines from aircraft which had reportedly sustained lightning strikes, the No. 5 main bearing from Pratt and Whitney, Type PT-6A engines, was often found to be pitted on its bearing surfaces to a degree that required replacement. This bearing is located deep inside the engine housing and is preceded by the No. 6 propeller shaft bearing at the front of the engine casing. Microscopic examination of the pits in the rolling contact surfaces of the examined No. 5 bearings appeared to show a wear pattern similar to that obtained on bearing surfaces by delamination during mechanical wear. When examined at high magnifications in the scanning electron microscope (SEM), it was found that the brightly reflecting bases of many of the pits had a dendritic structure and striations as a result of molten metal flow. Sectioned views through several pits confirmed that the metal base portions of these pits had indeed been remelted. The only energetics that could have accounted for this type of structure in pitted bearing surfaces was rapid melting and cooling by intense electric discharges through very small contact areas in mating bearing surfaces.
Comparison of Extraction Methods for Methamphetamine and its Metabolites in Tissue
Authors: Inoue T , Suzuki S
Published: August 2015

Five extraction methods were examined for analysis of methamphetamine and its major metabolites in tissue samples. The extraction methods studied were an acetone extraction method, an ethanol extraction method, an ammonium sulfate method, dialysis, and a direct solvent extraction. Acetone, ethanol, and dialysis methods showed no interference from endogenous components using thin-layer chromatography and gas chromatography, and gave satisfactory recovery of methamphetamine, amphetamine, and p-hydroxymethamphetamine when added to rabbit liver. These methods, however, proved time-consuming. The ammonium sulfate method and direct solvent extraction method were simple and more rapid, but recovery of the polar metabolite was poor.
A Review of Gunshot Wounds
Authors: Coe JI
Published: August 2015

The long awaited book on gunshot wounds by Dr. Vincent DiMaio is finally available, and it generally meets the high expectations anticipated from this expert.
Infrared Quantitative Evidential Breath-Alcohol Analyzers: In Vitro Accuracy and Precision Studies
Authors: Goldberger BA , Caplan YH
Published: August 2015

The in vitro accuracy and precision of four infrared breath-alcohol analyzers, the Alcotest 7010, BAC Verifier, Intoxilyzer 5000, and Intoximeter 3000, were studied with a protocol adapted from portions of the U.S. Department of Transportation's (DOT) “Standard for Devices to Measure Breath Alcohol.” Statistical evaluation of these studies indicated that all instruments met or exceeded the performance requirements modified from the U.S. DOT Standard for quantitative evidential breath-alcohol analyzers.
Blood Droplet Dynamics—II
Authors: Pizzola PA , Roth S , De Forest PR
Published: August 2015

An earlier companion paper to the present one dealt with a literature review as well as blood droplet formation and impacts to stationary target surfaces. The present paper discusses the results of experiments with moving target surfaces. These are discussed in the context of their correlation with blood droplet impacts to inclined stationary targets and with respect to the interpretation of bloodstain patterns at crime scenes where the target surface is capable of its own movement. A special belt device was designed and constructed for the experiments reported here. This motorized apparatus was used to drive paper belt target surfaces at various controlled speeds.
Detection of Bullet Residue in Bone Using Proton-Induced X-Ray Emission (PIXE) Analysis
Authors: Fischbeck HJ , Ryan SR , Snow CC
Published: August 2015

External beam proton-induced X-ray emission (PIXE) analysis has been used to verify the presence of lead in the finger bone of a murder victim. The deceased, who had been buried several years, was known to have suffered a bullet wound to his right hand several yers before death. X-ray radiographs of the right second proximal phalanx revealed the possible presence of metal fragments below the surface of the bone. To verify the presence of lead in a nondestructive manner, the bone was scanned with a 1.5-MeV proton beam. PIXE analysis showed that lead was present only in the vicinity of the fragments previously detected in the radiographs. A study of gunshot residue in bone shows that the distribution of lead around the bullet hole is independent of the firing distance for distances greater than 0.6 m.
Projectile Entry Angle Determination
Authors: Cashman PJ
Published: August 2015

Small angles of projectile entry are difficult to determine in two-dimensional targets or in three-dimensional targets where internal deflection has taken place. This results from the fact that small errors in measurement lead to large errors in the calculation of the sine function used in the estimation of the angular projection of a circle onto an inclined plane at angles of less than 20° from the normal. The use of a bullet tip scale, constructed to the dimensions of the entering projectile, allows a significantly more accurate determination of small angles of entry in targets not subject to stretching. A comparison of the relative error inherent in calculating entry angle using the sine function and measuring the angle using the bullet tip scale demonstrates the suitability of using the tip scale at angles less than 20° and the sine function at entry angles greater than 20°.
Clay Mineralogical Analysis Using the <0.05-mm Fraction for Forensic Science Investigation—Its Application to Volcanic Ash Soils and Yellow-Brown Forest Soils
Authors: Marumo Y , Nagatsuka S , Oba Y
Published: August 2015

Clay mineralogical analysis is conducted with a fraction size of less than 0.05 mm in diameter (<0.05-mm fraction), without extraction of the clay fraction (<0.002 mm), using X-ray diffraction (XRD), infrared absorption (IR), and differential thermal (DTA) techniques. Volcanic ash soils and yellow-brown forest soils were used as samples in this experiment. On the basis of IR spectra, clay mineralogical compositions of volcanic ash soil samples could be classified into four groups. XRD was the most effective to discriminate among the yellow-brown forest soil samples and DTA was sensitive for gibbsite. The following procedure was concluded as the most effective one to discriminate small amounts of soil samples. First, IR is used to classify the samples into an allophane-rich type and a siliceous type. To the former type, DTA is applied, and, to the latter, XRD is applied, followed by DTA. Sample was sufficient for this method, including IR, XRD, and DTA, if about 50 mg of the <0.05-mm fraction was obtained.
Facsimile Signatures Produced by Gelatin Transfer Duplicator—Recognition and Identification
Authors: Gencavage JS
Published: August 2015

A gelatin transfer duplicator can be used effectively to reproduce facsimile signatures resulting in forgeries of a reasonably good quality. However, an examiner of questioned documents who has a comprehensive understanding of the various stamping devices used in producing legitimate facsimile signatures should be able to recognize the fraudulent reproductions. It is also possible to identify the fraudulent reproductions with the matrix materials used in the reproduction process. An explanation of the process utilized in the examination and identification of these forgeries is furnished.
Determination of Age from the Sternal Rib in White Males: A Test of the Phase Method
Authors: Işcan MY , Loth SR
Published: August 2015

The effectiveness of a given age determination technique can better be assessed by testing the standards on unknown specimens. A test of this nature was carried out to evaluate the authors' previously published phase method for age estimation from the sternal extremity of the rib. A sample of 15 test ribs was judged by 25 physical and forensic anthropologists with varying levels of education and experience. The judges were asked to match the rib to the phase it most closely resembled by comparing it with the photographs from the original study. The results indicated that interobserver error based on experience was minimal, and nearly all of the participants averaged within one phase of the ideal. Variation appeared to be greater among the ribs than among the judges, yet no consistent association could be made between this variation and factors such as cause of death, antemortem medical history, drug or alcohol abuse, and occupation.
Estimating Height and Weight from Size of Footprints
Authors: Robbins LM
Published: August 2015

In the mid 1800s, Topinard proposed a simple formula for estimating a person's height: maximum foot length divided by 0.15 reveals the stature of most individuals. In addition to corroborating Topinard's findings, the author has developed formulas to serve as predictive models for estimating both height and weight when only a subject's footprint dimensions are known. The formulas are presented with a discussion of the data from which they are derived.
The Impact of Psychological Autopsies on Medical Examiners' Determination of Manner of Death
Authors: Jobes DA , Berman AL , Josselson AR
Published: August 2015

This study evaluated the impact of psychological information on medical examiners' determination of manner of death in equivocal cases. Ten cases, a typical and equivocal case for each of five case types (single car, child, autoerotic, psychotic, and Russian roulette death) were evaluated for manner of death by 195 medical examiner subjects. From this sample 95 control subjects received 10 cases made up of physical and circumstantial evidence, while 100 experimental subjects received the same 10 cases expanded with brief psychological autopsies. Psychological information was shown to have a statistically significant impact on subjects' determination (and certainty) of manner of death is equivocal cases and even in some typical cases.
Detective Magazines: Pornography for the Sexual Sadist?
Authors: Dietz PE , Harry B , Hazelwood RR
Published: August 2015

The origins of detective magazines can be traced to 17th and 18th century crime pamphlets and to 19th century periodicals that Lombroso called “really criminal newspapers.” Content analysis of current detective magazines shows that their covers juxtapose erotic images with images of violence, bondage, and domination; that their articles provide lurid descriptions of murder, rape, and torture; and that they publish advertisements for weapons, burglary and car theft tools, false identification, and sexual aids. Six case histories of sexual sadists illustrate the use of these magazines as a source of fantasy material. We postulate that detective magazines may contribute to the development of sexual sadism, facilitate sadistic fantasies, and serve as training manuals and equipment catalogs for criminals. We recommend that detective magazines be considered during policy debates about media violence and pornography.
Tolerance at High Blood Alcohol Concentrations: A Study of 110 Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Perper JA , Twerski A , Wienand JW
Published: August 2015

One hundred ten consecutive alcoholics who voluntarily entered a detoxification center were studied to determine their ability to perform certain designated functions (a) while under the influence of alcohol at admission and (b) four days later, after they had undergone detoxification. Their blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) within an hour of admission were determined by using the DuPont Automated Clinical Analyzer (ACA), following standard procedures. The results of the tests performed by these subjects were then studied to ascertain the level of psychomotor impairment in alcoholics at elevated BACs. The results were broken down by age, sex, race, and BAC. The findings indicate that alcoholics develop an increased tolerance to alcohol at BACs, which are extremely high, including levels generally considered to be potentially fatal.
Pathological Gambling and Criminal Responsibility
Authors: Rachlin S , Halpern AL , Portnow SL
Published: August 2015

There exists significant interdisciplinary support for eliminating the volitional component of the insanity defense. Somewhat in contrast to this trend is the presentation of pathological gambling as a potentially exculpatory condition in criminal trials. The authors discuss three federal appellate court decisions on this attempted inappropriate usage of psychiatric diagnostic nomenclature. All have upheld convictions, and thereby rejected contentions that such an impulse disorder can form the basis for a valid plea of lack of criminal responsibility. It is suggested that the public interest will be served by statutorily making disturbances of behavioral control insufficient to raise a defense of insanity.
Improved Method for the Analysis of the Military Explosive Composition C-4
Authors: Keto RO
Published: August 2015

A procedure for the separation and identification of the major components of the military plastic explosive composition C-4 is described. The explosive (RDX), plasticizer, and rubber binder are separated by selective solvent extraction and filtration, and the extracts are analyzed by multiple internal reflection infrared spectroscopy.
Enhancement of the Luminol Test by Means of Light Amplification
Authors: Thornton JI , Guarino K , Rios FG , Cashman PJ
Published: August 2015

The type of device commonly referred to as a “starlight scope” will amplify available light by a factor of approximately 17 000. The use of this device will permit an image to be formed by exceedingly small amounts of blood when reacted with luminol reagent. Modification of the apparatus is necessary to permit focusing at short distances.
The Palatal Ruga Pattern in Possible Paternity Determination
Authors: Thomas CJ , Kotze TJvW , Nash JM
Published: August 2015

The use of a genetic marker in paternity determination has been successful with the ABO blood group system but unsuccessful in dermatoglyphics and palatal rugae because the genetic mechanism is polygenic. The palatal rugae of 17 families (34 parents and 49 children) were classified and recorded, and the data used to construct a statistical analysis system (SAS) cluster map. A positive result would have meant a father clustering with all his children at Level 83, where, in fact, the best result achieved was at Level 5. The best cluster occurred at Level 82 between the ten-year-old boy of Family 7 and the eleven-year-old girl of Family 3. It is thus clear that the palatal rugae cannot be used in a practical procedure to determine paternity.
Howard Hughes and Melvin Dummar: Forensic Science Fact Versus Film Fiction
Authors: Freese PL
Published: August 2015

Publicity about the death of Howard Hughes and the search for his will stimulated the imaginations of many forgers. A purported will naming Melvin Dummar, a service station operator whose previous fame involved multiple appearances on game shows, became the feature attraction in forensic science as well as film presentations of the willful or unwillful ways of Howard Hughes. An award winning film depiction of Melvin Dummar's purported Good Samaritan association with Hughes and Melvin's loss of Cinderella status as a beneficiary of the so-called Mormon Will suggested strongly that Hughes had drafted a handwritten will and that Melvin was the victim of establishment bias. In this article, the forensic science record of a seven-month trial involving multiple, adaptive versions of Melvin Dummar's story and abundant proof of forgery is contrasted with the fanciful and sympathetic film portrayal of Melvin Dummar as a victim of a suppressive society.
The Document Evidence and Some Other Observations About the Howard R. Hughes “Mormon Will” Contest
Authors: Harris JJ
Published: August 2015

Let's set the scene. On 26 April 1976, a sad looking three-page document, handwritten on yellow legal tablet paper with the top edges torn off, along with two envelopes and a short note, were delivered to the County Clerk at Las Vegas by an official of the Mormon Church. These papers had been mysteriously left at Church headquarters in Salt Lake City a few days earlier. They purported to be the Last Will and Testament of Howard R. Hughes written under date of 19 March 1968 (Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5).
A Method for the Description of Minutia Pairs in Epidermal Ridge Patterns
Authors: Stoney DA , Thornton JI
Published: August 2015

A descriptive method is presented that allows documentation of minutia configurations in epidermal ridge patterns. The method incorporates the basic features relevant to fingerprint comparison: minutia types, orientations, and relative positions. Provision is also made for the ambiguities in minutia type which are an inevitable feature of any fingerprint comparison process. A descriptive method incorporating these features is needed to study systematically the variation of epidermal ridge minutiae and to test the existing hypotheses regarding the frequencies of occurrence of specific minutia configurations.
Detection of Cocaine Metabolite in Perspiration Stain, Menstrual Bloodstain, and Hair
Authors: Smith FP , Liu RH
Published: August 2015

Low nanogram and picogram quantities of cocaine metabolite equivalents were detected in extracts from perspiration stains, menstrual bloodstains, and hair using radioimmunoassay. The theory of drug inclusion in hair and its significance are discussed.
An Appraisal of Plastic Reconstruction of the External Nose
Authors: Macho GA
Published: August 2015

The association between the morphometric dimensions of the external nose, including the thickness of the soft tissues, and various craniometric measurements has been examined on a sample of lateral radiographs of 154 males and 199 females from Vienna, Austria. In addition, the influence of age on morphometric dimensions and the soft tissue cover was tested. Multiple stepwise regression analysis revealed that nasal height and nasal length are best predicted by the dimensions of the skull, whereas nasal depth and the thickness of the soft tissues is greatly influenced by age. In males, over 50% of the variance of nasal height and nasal length were accounted for by the height of the bony nose and the prominence of the ossa nasalia, and in females it was about 40%. Although the thickness of the soft tissue is dependent on exogenous factors, such as nutrition, mimicry, and so forth, the dimensions of the bony nose apparently also influence the skin depths to some extent. High and prominent noses were found to have a thinner layer of soft tissue over the nasal bones than short and less prominent ones. It thus seems as if there is a tendency of the soft tissue cover to adjust to disharmonies of the bony profile.
Paper Match Comparisons by Submersion
Authors: Gerhart FJ , Ward DC
Published: August 2015

Comparisons of torn paper matches are difficult, time-consuming microscopic examinations. A technique is described where adjacent match bodies are submerged in an ethanol/water solution resulting in a significant increase in the number of observable points of identification.
Reassembling Scattered and Mixed Human Bones by Trace Element Ratios
Authors: Fulton BA , Meloan CE , Finnegan M
Published: August 2015

Trace metal ratios in human bones were examined to determine if there were ratios that were sufficiently consistent within an individual yet varying sufficiently from the bones of another individual so that bones in a mixed grave could be reassembled. The concentrations of 21 elements sampled at 54 places on 30 human bones in each of 5 skeletons indicated that the magnesium/zinc ratio was the most reliable and that the zinc/sodium, magnesium/sodium, and chromium/sodium ratios could be used as supplements to help reassemble human bones belonging to the same individual after all standard techniques had been used.
Dicyclomine in the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)—A Cause of Death or an Incidental Finding?
Authors: Randall B , Gerry G , Rance F
Published: August 2015

We report a case of a small infant apparently dying of the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) with a postmortem blood dicyclomine level of 200 ng/mL. Review of the literature and the comparison with blood dicyclomine values from four rabbits given equivalent doses suggests that a blood dicyclomine value of 200 ng/mL probably is in the therapeutic range for infants. Although safely used for years for infantile colic, recently, the administration of dicyclomine has been related to acute episodes of apnea, seizures, and coma. In the absence of those acute reactions, we feel that a 200-ng/mL blood dicyclomine level in a child dying of apparent SIDS should not prevent categorization of the death as SIDS.
Bullet or Bite—A Contribution to the Morphogenesis of Gunshot Dermal Injury
Authors: Adelson L
Published: August 2015

Histopathologic studies of dermal dog bites revealed changes identical with those observed in distant gunshot skin entrance wounds and in a presternal skin stab wound made by a screwdriver. The similarity of the epithelial and collagen changes produced by these three totally different traumatizing, perforating agencies indicate that it is the bullet's penetrating and crushing power, and not its caloric content, that is responsible for the characteristic dermal collagen changes noted in these common injuries.
The Investigation of Alleged Insecticide Toxicity: A Case Involving Chlordane Exposure, Multiple Sclerosis, and Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Blisard KS , Kornfeld M , McFeeley PJ , Smialek JE
Published: August 2015

A man with no previous medical problems had two documented exposures to an insecticide containing the organophosphorous compounds chlordane and heptachlor. Six months to one year later, he began to experience neurological symptoms which progressed until his death. At autopsy, his brain showed classic findings of multiple sclerosis, and he had a severe peripheral neuropathy. Review of the literature indicates that the findings are not compatible with chlordane toxicity. Some of the factors to be used in determining the casual relationship between toxic exposure and disease processes are discussed.
A Review of Critical Issues in American Psychiatry and the Law, Volume 2
Authors: Drucker F
Published: August 2015

I like this book. In 1983, reviewing the first volume of this series [1] prepared for the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law (Tri-State Chapter), I groused a great deal. I complained that papers were uneven in quality, and that many had been prepared for oral presentation rather than reading. While it might be an excellent textbook on forensic psychiatric problems, I felt this book would probably be of far less value to attorneys or to psychiatrists seeking information for specific cases.
Laser Excited Luminescence of Inclusions and Fibers in Paper Matches
Authors: von Bremen UG
Published: August 2015

Luminescing inclusions and fibers were located in paper matches by means of two lasers. The size, color, and intensity of luminescence varied from match to match. Paper matches could quickly be compared to each other. Forty-one match books were collected. They were illuminated with a 5-W argon laser operated in the broad band mode or a dye laser set at 593 nm. All matches were examined visually with optical equipment and some with infrared film. The argon laser revealed more luminescing inclusions, whereas the dye laser excited more fibers. Since only a small number of inclusions and fibers luminesced, they stood out from the mass of fibers constituting paper matches.
Examination of U.S. Automotive Paints: I. Make and Model Determination of Hit-and-Run Vehicles by Reflectance Microspectrophotometry
Authors: Nowicki J , Patten R
Published: August 2015

The feasibility of using the Nanometrics DocuSpec I microspectrophotometer for paint analysis was investigated. The reflectance spectra of 15 paint panels of visually similar color from the Reference Collection of Automotive Paints were stored in the DocuSpec computer's memory. Paint samples taken from salvage yard vehicles were compared against this reference library, and in eight out of eleven instances the DocuSpec correctly identified the right panel as a possible source of the paint fragment. The DocuSpec I can be used as a rapid and discriminating screening tool in the determination of the make and model of a hit-and-run vehicle from a paint chip found at the scene.
Preliminary Examination of Machine Copier Toners by Infrared Spectrophotometry and Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography
Authors: Zimmerman J , Mooney D , Kimmett MJ
Published: August 2015

Thirty-five photocopy toners and copies processed from machines using the respective toners were collected from five manufacturers. Through infrared spectrophotometry. a spectral match between the standard toner powder and the toner extracted from the respective copied document was achieved. Also toners were categorized into 18 different groups, of which 7 included more than 1 toner. Further specificity was achieved using pyrolysis gas chromatography, in which the toners in the seven different groups were distinguished from all others. Application is foreseen in an infrared spectrophotometer library search for peak match or functional groups or both to identify the toner of a questioned document, or matching or eliminating the toner from a questioned document with standards from suspect machines with pyrolysis gas chromatography.
Identification of Fentanyl Derivatives
Authors: Cooper D , Jacob M , Allen A
Published: August 2015

An interpretative approach to the identification of fentanyl homologs and analogs is presented. The techniques employed are liquid/liquid extractions; capillary gas chromatography; and infrared, mass, and nuclear magnetic resonance spectral characterization. Spectral data are presented for eight fentanyl derivatives of clandestine origin.
Hemolysis and Hyperkalemia Complicate Malignant Hyperpyrexia During Anesthetic Death
Authors: Ward RJ , Eisele JW , Reay DT , Horton WG
Published: August 2015

A healthy, 15-year-old male received a thiopental, nitrous oxide, oxygen, enflurane anesthetic for appendectomy. Cardiac arrest, following succinylcholine administration, was associated with marked hyperkalemia (potassium levels 8.7 to 11.6 meq), hemolysis (hematocrit fall from 41.7 to 26.6%, plasma hemoglobin 27 mg/dL), and creatine phosphokinase (CPK) elevation (8900 units). Vigorous resuscitative therapy including dantrolene was unsuccessful.

The diagnosis of malignant hyperthermia was made by the marked CPK elevation on blood samples drawn during resuscitation and analyzed by the Medical Examiner's Office.
Bilateral Asymmetry of Long Arm Bones and Jugular Foramen: Implications for Handedness
Authors: Glassman DM , Bass WM
Published: August 2015

The analysis of asymmetry of the arm long bones and of the cranial jugular foramen has been used to suggest handedness in humans. However, because of the unavailability of documented skeletal material, neither criterion has been systematically tested. If both criteria are associated with handedness, they should also be intercorrelated within individuals. Data were collected from skeletal material of 125 males and 57 females to test whether this intercorrelation exists. According to Chi-square analysis, no statistically significant association was identified. After examining several hypotheses, it was concluded that until further substantiation, neither criterion is related to handedness to a degree appropriate for forensic science identification from skeletal remains.
Ethical Concerns Expressed by Forensic Psychiatrists
Authors: Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

A survey was made of American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) forensic psychiatrists to evaluate whether there is concern among them about potential ethical problems in criminal justice work. Of the respondents, 93.8% had encountered such problems. The main concerns indicated were about those psychiatrists who become a “hired gun,” become an advocate, do not give an honest opinion, or have problems with confidentiality. The need for ethical guidelines and further debate about ethical issues is presented.
Relationship Security: The Dynamics of Keepers and Kept
Authors: Maier GJ
Published: August 2015

Hiring, training and supervising treatment staff who work closely with forensic patients at all levels of security requires careful planning. In particular, staff must identify and share feelings like fear and anger that are always generated when patients threaten or attack staff. Approaches to dealing with staff countertransference to patients are suggested in this article, and aids to breaking the aggression cycle are discussed. Relationship security is a working through of dynamics that are always in operation where there are keepers and kept.
Pedophile Types and Treatment Perspectives
Authors: Travin S , Bluestone H , Coleman E , Cullen K , Melella J
Published: August 2015

Pedophiles constitute a heterogeneous group of sex offenders. Direct physiological assessment of sexual arousal has significantly increased our diagnostic skill and capability of monitoring treatment response. Erectile response studies have indicated that the majority of pedophiles and incest offenders show arousal to other paraphilias and frequently to appropriate adult sexual stimuli. Many sexual offenders deny or minimize their problem during initial interviews, but when confronted with laboratory results indicating deviant sexual arousal, they often acknowledge and elaborate on the paraphilia(s). Complete data and diagnoses are crucial in integrating treatment in the cognitive-behavioral paradigm.
Spectral Differentiation and Gas Chromatographic/Mass Spectrometric Analysis of the Lacrimators 2-Chloroacetophenone and o-Chlorobenzylidene Malononitrile
Authors: Ferslew KE , Orcutt RH , Hagardorn AN
Published: August 2015

2-Chloroacetophenone (CN) and o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) are the most common chemical agents used as lacrimators in the United States. There is a lack of complete spectral data on these compounds in the literature. Spectral data (ultraviolet, fluorescence, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, and infrared) and a gas-liquid chromatographic/mass spectrometric method are presented that differentiate and identify CN and CS. These methods and data were used to identify a forensic science specimen from an accidental intoxication.
Three-Dimensional Presentation of Glass Density Versus Refractive Index Data
Authors: Espinoza EO , Thornton JI
Published: August 2015

Graphical representations of glass density versus refractive index data have classically been in the form of two-dimensional scattergrams. For the purpose of illustrating how common or uncommon a particular glass sample is, a three-dimensional projection graph has been found to be useful.
Profiles of Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Metabolites in Urine of Marijuana Users: Preliminary Observations by High Performance Liquid Chromatography-Radioimmunoassay
Authors: Alburges ME , Peat MA
Published: August 2015

Metabolic profiles of 11-nor-9-carboxylic acid-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (COOH-THC) and other THC metabolites were determined in an infrequent and a frequent marijuana user by high performance liquid chromatography-radioimmunoassay (HPLC-RIA). In the infrequent user, no unconjugated COOH-THC was detected in urine samples for the first 8 h following smoking, whereas this metabolite was detected in the urine samples from a frequent user. A metabolite was also detected in the frequent user, which was not present in the urine sample from the infrequent user.
Screening for Barbiturates in Vitreous Humor by the EMIT®-st Serum Enzyme Immunoassay
Authors: Ojanperä I , Vuori E , Nieminen R , Penttilä A
Published: August 2015

In 16 medical examiner's cases, which were found to be barbiturate-positive by thin-layer chromatographic screening of the liver, blood barbiturate concentrations were determined by gas chromatography. The corresponding vitreous humor samples were screened by the enzyme multiplied immunoassay technique, the EMIT®-st serum barbiturate assay. By using the recommended dilution for detecting serum barbiturates, it was possible to detect barbiturates in vitreous humor at a toxic concentration. By using one fourth the amount of diluent, the barbiturates could be detected also at a therapeutic concentration. The EMIT-st assay proved to be useful in the screening for barbiturates in vitreous humor, a material that is readily available in forensic toxicology.
A New Method for Softening Mummified Fingers
Authors: Zugibe FT , Costello JT
Published: August 2015

Proposed methods for softening mummified fingers have been either unsuccessful in adequately softening the fingers or have been highly destructive. A simple technique based on an entirely new concept utilizing disodium ethylenediamine tetracetic acid in a detergent solution adjusted to a pH of 7.5 has been successfully used to obtain satisfactory to good fingerprints over the past ten years in every case attempted.
Resolution of Some Enantiomeric Amines of Forensic Interest by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Taylor Noggle F , Clark CR
Published: August 2015

The high-performance liquid chromatographic resolution of the enantiomers of amphetamine, methamphetamine, ephedrine, and pseudoephedrine is described. The sugar isothiocyanate, 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate (GITC), is used as a chiral derivatizing agent, with chromatographic separations of the diastereomers formed with each amine made using a standard achiral C18 stationary phase.
The Effect of Tempered Glass on Bullet Trajectory
Authors: Thornton JI , Cashman PJ
Published: August 2015

It was determined that tempered glass automobile windows may severely influence the trajectory of .38 Special projectiles. In replicating an actual case situation, deflections as great as 26.4° were observed with jacketed hollow-point ammunition, and as high as 10.8° for lead ammunition.
Close Proximity Gunshot Residues
Authors: Thornton JI
Published: August 2015

Intuitively, a hand held in close proximity to a firearm at the instant of discharge will intercept a significant amount of gunshot residue, even though the hand did not actually come into contact with the weapon. There is, however, little information specifically described in the forensic science literature concerning the residue levels which might be encountered in such an instance. The present work confirms that antimony levels consistent with an individual having fired or handled a firearm may be intercepted by a hand held in close proximity.
Collision Marks on Plastic Materials on Motor Vehicles
Authors: Ponnuswamy PK , Kuppuswamy R
Published: August 2015

In vehicular collisions involving plastic materials, the structure of the stretching plastic film is deposited on the motor vehicle. This structure, characterized by ridges and depressions with embedding fibers, could be used for identification of vehicles.