bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differences in Criminal Activity Between Heroin Abusers and Subjects Without Psychiatric Disorders—Analysis of 578 Detainees in Bilbao, Spain
Authors: Morentin B , Callado LF , Meana JJ
Published: August 2015

The association between drug abuse and criminal activity has been deeply established, but the nature of this relationship is controversial. The incidence and types of criminal activity were analyzed in 837 arrests of 578 subjects who were also interviewed for psychiatric diagnosis and evaluation of criminal responsibility. There was a significant prevalence of heroin abuse/dependence (50.5 %) in the sample. Another 124 subjects (21.5 %) in whom no psychiatric disorder could be observed were considered as the control group. Heroin abusers were younger (26 years, SD 5.9) than controls (29 years, SD 11.2) and showed some different ethnic characteristics. Heroin abuse/dependence was the most important risk factor (O.R. = 10.15) for criminal recidivism. Females were more related to nonviolent criminal activity than males. There was a higher incidence of offenses against property among heroin abusers (burglary 57.8%; robbery 19.5%) than in the control group (burglary 15.3% robbery 4.8%). In contrast, aggression or resistance to police authorities and nonfatal offenses against persons were more frequent among controls (12% and 13.7%, respectively) than among heroin abusers (3.7% and 3%, respectively). The results of this study confirm the hypothesis of a relationship between criminal activity and heroin abuse/dependence, probably based on financial needs. However, the association seems not to be a single and direct cause-effect relationship, as other factors show influence on the criminal activity.
Time Since Discharge of Shotguns
Authors: Andrasko J , Norberg T , Ståhling S
Published: August 2015

A method for estimation of the time since the latest discharge of a shotgun is presented. This method is based on SPME (Solid Phase Micro-Extraction) sampling from the atmosphere inside the shotgun barrel. Two analytical systems were used in parallel, the GC/TEA and GC/FID(MS) system. These two systems detect various combustion products and the estimation of time since the latest discharge is based on the rate of escape of the volatile discharge residues from the barrel as a function of time. If the ammunition used in the suspect firearm is known, the use of decay curves for the actual firearm and the actual ammunition is fairly straightforward. For unknown ammunition, repective samplings must be performed and the results fitted to decay curves obtained for other ammunition types according to the proposed procedure. Generally, the method presented in this study can give an indication whether a weapon was fired, e.g., 2 to 3 days, 1 to 2 weeks, or more than 3 weeks ago. Some factors that may impact data interpretation were studied, such as the effect of cleaning the barrel, the number of shots fired, the eventual disturbance to the system by SPME sampling and the effect of temperature of the storage.
Efficacy of Repeated Psychophysiological Detection of Deception Testing
Authors: Dollins AB , Cestaro VL , Pettit DJ
Published: August 2015

Physiological measures were recorded during repeated psychophysiological detection of deception (PDD) tests to determine if reaction levels change with test repetition. Two groups of 22 healthy male subjects completed six peak of tension PDD tests on each of two test days. A minimum between test day interval of six days was maintained. The treatment group was programmed to respond deceptively to one of seven test questions while the control group was programmed to respond truthfully to all questions. The respiration and galvanic skin resistance (GSR) line lengths, GSR peak response amplitude and latency, and cardiovascular inter-beat-interval (IBI) were calculated for each response. Analyses indicated that, except for GSR peak response latency, differential physiological reactivity during a PDD test did not change significantly over repeated tests or days; there was a decrease in average respiration line lengths at the initial test(s) of each day; and differential changes in average respiration line length, GSR peak latency, and cardiovascular IBI responses corresponded to deception. Power analyses were calculated to assist in result interpretation. It is suggested that PDD decision accuracy, concerning subject veracity, should not decrease during repeated testing.
South Portuguese Population Data on the Loci HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8 and Gc
Authors: Brito RM , Ribeiro T , Espinheira R , Geada H
Published: August 2015

Five South Portuguese Caucasian subpopulations were analyzed for the HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8 and Gc loci. Genotype distributions for these loci did not deviate from Hardy-Weinberg expectations. The allele and genotype frequencies found have been compared with previously published data from North and Central Portugal. A total of 11 out of 138 chisquare comparisons of allele frequencies between different Portuguese populations showed a certain degree of divergence. Alentejo, Algarve, Madeira Island and Azores Islands populations might be considered as different groups in a database. For forensic casework, a composite South Portuguese Caucasian population database was obtained for estimating multiple locus profile frequencies using the six PCR-based loci studied.
New Jersey Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic Population Data on the PCR-Based Loci HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and Gc
Authors: Jankowski LB , Budowle B , Swec NT , Pino JA , Freck-Tootell S , Corey HW , Schwartz R , LaRue EJ , Rochin WL , Kearney CJ , Tarver ML
Published: August 2015

New Jersey Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic genotype and allele frequencies were determined for the six PCR-based loci, HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and Gc. All but one locus (HLA-DQA1 for African Americans) meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations. However, observing one departure in 18 loci over the three New Jersey sample populations is not unexpected. There is little evidence for departures from independence between pairs of loci in the three populations studied. Thus, multiple locus profile frequencies can be determined using the product rule.
The Effect of Pathologic Substances and Adulterants on the DNA Typing of Urine
Authors: Linfert DR , Wu AHB , Tsongalis GJ
Published: August 2015

Human urine has not been adequately investigated as a potential source of DNA for forensic identity testing. The advent of polymerase chain reaction technology has made possible the analysis of previously undetectable levels of nucleic acids from human urine and other body fluids lacking nucleated cells. In this study, we evaluated the ability to genotype DNA extracted from adulterated urine specimens using the AmpliType® PM + DQA1 PCR amplification and typing system. Fresh, first-void male urine specimens were contaminated with household bleach, E. coli, human serum albumin, glucose and saponin (a strong detergent). All of the adulterated samples were typed without difficulty. Frozen male urine specimens were split into equal volumes; one aliquot was adulterated with either E. coli or saponin, and the other was left free of contaminants. Seventy-one percent of all frozen urine specimens tested (adulterated and unadulterated) were successfully typed using this amplification and typing system. Our data, therefore, suggest that the AmpliType® PM + DQA1 PCR amplification and typing system described is suitable for genotype analysis of adulterated fresh and frozen urine specimens.
Computer-Based Production of Bite Mark Comparison Overlays
Authors: Sweet D , Parhar M , Wood RE
Published: August 2015

Bite mark comparison protocols include measurement and analysis of the pattern, size, and shape of teeth against similar characteristics observed in an injury on skin or a mark on an object. The physical comparison of tooth position often depends upon transparent acetate overlays to detect similarities or differences between the teeth and the bite mark. Several methods are used to produce life-sized comparison overlays. The perimeter of the biting edges of the anterior teeth are usually recorded to produce facsimile images called hollow volume overlays. Some investigators hand-trace these outlines from dental study casts, or from bite exemplars produced in wax, styrofoam, or similar materials. Some use hand-traced outlines from xerographic images produced with office photocopiers that are calibrated to produce life-sized final images. Others use radiographic images and toneline photography of wax exemplars filled with radio-opaque materials, such as metal filings or barium sulfate. Dependence upon subjective input by the odontologist to trace these images manually is considered problematic. This is because the errors incorporated at any production stage are increased in the final product. The authors have developed a method to generate accurate hollow volume overlays using computer-based techniques. A PowerPC Macintosh computer, flatbed scanner, and Adobe Photoshop (a popular graphical interface application) are used to acquire, select, arrange and export detailed data from class and individual characteristics of a suspect's teeth to acetate film loaded in a high-resolution laser printer. This paper describes this technique to enable the odontologist to produce high-quality, accurate comparison overlays without subjective input.
Immersion Technique for Brain Removal in Perinatal Autopsies
Authors: Prahlow JA , Ross KF , Salzberger L , Lott EG , Guileyardo JM , Barnard JJ
Published: August 2015

Perinatal autopsies present forensic pathologists with a variety of challenges, not the least of which involves the removal and examination of very small and sometimes fragile organs. Removal of the immature brain can be particularly troublesome. Even if great care is taken during brain removal, one is often left with no more than a semifluid amorphous mass of softened tissue by the time the brain is ready to be fixed in formalin.

We describe a method of perinatal brain removal which helps to preserve brain shape and integrity. By removing the brain while the head (and body) is totally immersed in water, we find that the brain is easier to remove and less apt to destruction. Subsequent fixation in formalin results in well-preserved, intact specimens, allowing for optimal examination and sectioning.
Determination of Benzodiazepines in Forensic Samples by HPLC with Photo-Diode Array Detection
Authors: He W , Parissis N , Kiratzidis T
Published: August 2015

A high-performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) method has been developed for the analysis of several benzodiazepines and some of their metabolites in blood, plasma and urine. The method included a liquid-liquid extraction with n-hexane:ethylacetate, a gradient elution on a C8 reversed phase column with a non-electrolyte eluent and a photo diode array detection. This allowed a rapid detection, a purity check, and identification as well as quantitation of the eluting peaks. The detection limit was 10 to 30 ng and the limit of quantitation was 0.05 μg/mL, using 1 mL of blood, plasma or urine. The procedure is applied routinely in forensic toxicological analyses involving blood, stomach content, urine and organ samples. About 30 positive cases are reported. The avoidence of the use of an electrolyte buffer in the eluent resulted in a robust procedure, free of technical problems and of long rinsing periods, suitable for routine use in forensic toxicology analysis involving blood, urine, stomach content and tissue samples.
Sudden Death Due to Sarcoid Heart Disease
Authors: Boglioli LR , Taff ML , Funke S , Mihalakis I
Published: August 2015

A case of sudden death due to massive myocardial sarcoidosis is presented. Cardiac sarcoidosis is discussed. Since the deceased was a New York City police officer with death benefit entitlements under the Heart Bill, the implications of the medicolegal autopsy are emphasized.
Speedballing with Needle Embolization: Case Study and Review of the Literature
Authors: Thorne LB , Collins KA
Published: August 2015

Foreign-body embolization is not an uncommon occurrence. However, to our knowledge, there are only ten reported cases of needle embolization associated with intravenous drug use.

We report the sudden death of a 49-year-old white male with a known history of crack cocaine abuse. At autopsy, suspicious needle marks were noted on the right lower extremity. The lungs were of increased weight at 1000 and 1090 g and appeared edematous. The heart weighed 520 g and had a normal red-brown myocardium. Upon sectioning, a broken hypodermic needle of very small caliber was identified in the right ventricular myocardium protruding into the right ventricular chamber. This needle apparently traveled from the injection site to the right ventricle. The right ventricle was dilated and hypertrophied, and microscopic examination showed hyperemic myocardium surrounding the needle. Sections of lung showed numerous foreign-body type giant cells containing polarizable foreign material consistent with intravenous drug use. Toxicological analysis revealed the presence of ethanol (36 mg/dL), cocaine (0.098 mg/L), benzoylecgonine (2.16 mg/L), and morphine (0.841 mg/L). Urine and blood were positive for the presence of 6-monoacetylmorphine. Based on the toxicological analysis, the cause of death was determined to be cocaine and heroin toxicity, and the manner accidental. The needle embolus was considered an incidental finding.
Airbag Mediated Death of a Two-Year-Old Child Wearing a Shoulder/Lap Belt
Authors: Cooper JT , Balding LE , Jordan FB
Published: August 2015

Airbag injuries have resulted in the deaths of several infants and small children, and such deaths are generally associated with rearward-facing infant seats or unrestrained children in front passenger seats of cars equipped with airbags. An airbag can also cause death in a small child wearing a shoulder/lap belt, however, as this case report illustrates. A two-year-old female was involved in a low-speed collision while riding in the front passenger seat of a dual-airbag-equipped automobile. Secondary impact with the airbag caused catastrophic occipitoatlantoaxial disarticulation with traumatic spinal cord separation, thermal injury and abrasions of the right forearm and distinctive patterned abrasions of the face. The possibility of airbag injury should be considered in all low-speed traffic fatalities, and the confirmatory injuries sought at postmortem examination.
A Fatal Drug Interaction Between Clozapine and Fluoxetine
Authors: Ferslew KE , Hagardorn AN , Harlan GC , McCormick WF
Published: August 2015

A case is presented of a fatal drug interaction caused by ingestion of clozapine (Clozaril™) and fluoxetine (Prozac™). Clozapine is a tricyclic dibenzodiazepine derivative used as an “atypical antipsychotic” in the treatment of severe paranoid schizophrenia. Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used for the treatment of major depression. Clinical studies have proven that concomitant administration of fluoxetine and clozapine produces increased plasma concentrations of clozapine and enhances clozapine's pharmacological effects due to suspected inhibition of clozapine metabolism by fluoxetine. Blood, gastric, and urine specimens were analyzed for fluoxetine by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and for clozapine by gas-liquid chromatography (GLC). Clozapine concentrations were: plasma, 4.9 µg/mL; gastric contents, 265 mg; and urine, 51.5 µg/mL. Fluoxetine concentrations were: blood, 0.7 µg/mL; gastric contents, 3.7 mg; and urine 1.6 µg/mL. Norfluoxetine concentrations were: blood, 0.6 µg/mL, and none detected in the gastric contents or urine. Analysis of the biological specimens for other drugs revealed the presence of ethanol (blood, 35 mg/dL; vitreous, 56 mg/dL; and urine 153 mg/dL) and caffeine (present in all specimens). The combination of these drugs produced lethal concentrations of clozapine and high therapeutic to toxic concentrations of fluoxetine. The deceased had pulmonary edema, visceral vascular congestion, paralytic ileus, gastroenteritis and eosinophilia. These conditions are associated with clozapine toxicity. The combined central nervous system, respiratory and cardiovascular depression of these drugs was sufficient to cause death. The death was determined to be a clozapine overdose due to a fatal drug interaction.
Distribution of Phenol in a Fatal Poisoning Case Determined by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Tanaka T , Kasai K , Kita T , Tanaka N
Published: August 2015

A victim who was presumed to have ingested waste fluid containing phenol of DNA extraction was found dead in his laboratory. The skin was partially chemically burned, with blisters as maps. No mechanical injuries were observed. The pathological findings of the liver and kidney were typical of those of acute substantial poisoning. Phenol concentrations in the blood, urine, stomach contents and organs were determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Phenol was distributed throughout the body. The concentration of free phenol in the blood was found to be 60 µg/mL, and in the urine it was 208 µg/mL. The phenol concentrations in the organs were found as follows: 106 µg/g in the brain; 116 µg/g in the lungs; 166 µg/g in the liver, and 874 µg/g in the kidney, respectively. Significantly high concentrations were observed in the kidney, urine, and liver. To the best of our knowledge, such an intoxication through this kind of ingestion has never been reported before. Distributions of phenol in fatal poisonings have been reported, but colorimetry was used as the analytical method and it cannot exclude the interference of other phenolic compounds.
PM and D1S80 Loci Gene Frequencies in the Zaragoza Population of Northern Spain
Authors: Martinez-Jarreta B , Budowle B , Abecia E , Bell B , Casalod Y , Castellano M
Published: August 2015

LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, GC (PM loci) and D1S80 are widely used in forensic casework analyses and population data are required to estimate the frequency of a DNA profile. This paper presents the results of a survey aimed at investigating the allele and genotype frequency distribution of these loci in an important Spanish population (Zaragoza, North Spain). Statistical analysis to determine whether allele frequencies were in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was carried out as well as to obtain some parameters of medicolegal interest. There was no evidence of association between the alleles of the loci. The Zaragoza sample does not differ substantially from other Caucasian populations.
Isolation, Amplification, and Sequencing of Human Mitochondrial DNA Obtained from Human Crab Louse, Pthirus Pubis (L.), Blood Meals
Authors: Lord WD , DiZinno JA , Wilson MR , Budowle B , Taplin D , Meinking TL
Published: August 2015

The ability to identify individual human hosts based on analyses of blood recovered from the digestive tract of hematophagous arthropods has been a long-term pursuit in both medical and forensic entomology. Blood meal individualization techniques can bring important advancements to studies of vector-borne disease epidemiology. Forensically, these analyses may aid in assailant identification in violent crime cases where blood-feeding insects or their excreta are recovered from victims or at crime scenes. Successful isolation, amplification, and sequencing of human mitochondrial DNA obtained from adult human crab lice fed on human volunteers are reported. Adult lice were removed from recruited volunteers frequenting inner city health clinics. Live lice were killed by freezing and subsequently air dried at ambient temperature. A saliva sample was obtained from each volunteer and served as a DNA reference sample. Volunteers were afforded free, approved pediculosis treatment. Individual lice were subsequently processed using procedures developed for the extraction of mitochondrial DNA from human hair, teeth, and bone. The resulting DNA was amplified by the polymerase chain reaction and sequenced. Our results point to valuable avenues for future entomological research.
Dangerous Misidentification of People Due to Flashback Phenomena in Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Authors: Silva JA , Leong GB , Harry BE , Ronan J , Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

Misidentification of people may occur in a number of psychiatric disorders associated with delusional thinking. Misidentification of people may also occur in the context of visual flashback phenomena associated with post-traumatic stress disorder. People who misidentify someone during a flashback associated with previous war combat experience may perceive and conceptualize the misidentified object as an enemy who may be both feared and disliked. This might make the misidentified objects become the targets of violent attacks by the affected person. In this article we present five cases of flashback-induced misidentification of people who were subsequently attacked within the context of the flashback experience. The nature of the misidentification of persons due to flashback experiences is discussed. The association between the type of misidentification and aggression is also discussed.
Murder Masquerading as Suicide: Postmortem Assessment of Suicide Risk Factors at the Time of Death
Authors: Simon RI
Published: August 2015

Postmortem assessments of suicide risk factors present at the time of death were used to expose a murder masquerading as a suicide. Postmortem assessment of clinically based suicide risk factors in equivocal suicide cases should readily meet prevailing evidentiary criteria of “reasonableness.” Assessing the presence or absence of suicide risk factors can assist in clarifying the question of suicide intent at the time of death. However, discerning the motives for suicide is usually a more difficult task. Forensic opinions should avoid conclusory statements that invade the province of the fact finder in determining criminal responsibility.
Homicides in War and Peace in Croatia
Authors: Požgain I , Mandić N , Barkić J
Published: August 2015

This work shows the interdisciplinary investigation of homicides in the Osijek area during the war and prewar periods. Similarities between the prewar and wartime perpetrators are related to social-demographic characteristics. Nevertheless, significant differences are found in the homicidal method of selection among victims and participation of victims involved.

The major contributing factors in homicide genesis were acute alcohol intoxication and personality disorder among perpetrators. Besides these factors, the war stressors and access to firearms were significant factors during the war homicides.

Prevention efforts should be directed toward consequential measures and further investigation suggests that the emphasis must be put on victimological aspects of the homicide problem.

This work is a review of an interdisciplinary investigation of prewar and war homicides in the city of Osijek district.

It provides confirmation of how the number of war homicides relate to the prewar number.
The Hypnosis of Adolf Hitler
Authors: Post DE
Published: August 2015

A little-known United States Naval Intelligence document (declassified in 1973) for the first time identified Dr. Edmund Forster as the psychiatrist who treated Adolf Hitler during his recovery in Pasewalk Military Hospital.

The fact that Adolf Hitler served as a corporal in World War I is known. However, little has been known as to the psychiatric treatment of Hitler during the autumn of 1918 after he fell victim to a mustard gas attack while serving in the front lines with The 16th Bavarian Reserve Infantry Regiment.

Historians (Rudolph Binion and John Toland) have acknowledged Hitler's days in the Pasewalk Hospital, but Hitler's psychiatric treatment was not the focus of their attention.

The author of the present paper (a psychiatrist) sets out to better understand what is known about Forster's encounter with Adolf Hitler; and discusses the possibility that suggestions given to Hitler under hypnosis may have influenced the course of history.
Age and Sex-Related Variation in Hyoid Bone Morphology
Authors: Miller KWP , Walker PL , O'Halloran RL
Published: August 2015

Although the relationship between hyoid bone shape and fracture pattern figures prominently in forensic investigations of strangulation, few quantitative data exist on age and sex differences in hyoid morphology. An image analysis system was used to take a series of 30 measurements on digitized radiographs of 315 hyoid bones from people of known age and sex. The degree of fusion of the greater cornua to the hyoid body was also recorded. Statistical analysis of these data shows that there is a continuous distribution of hyoid bone shapes and that most bones are highly symmetrical. Based on smaller samples, previous researchers have suggested that non-fusion is more common in women than in men. In contrast, our data suggest that men and women have similar nonfusion rates. Analysis of sexual dimorphism shows that the greatest length differences are in the greater cornua. There are also significant sex differences in hyoid shape. For example, the distal ends of the greater cornua of women are significantly longer than those of men.
Production of Intoxication States by Actors: Perception by Lay Listeners
Authors: Hollien H , DeJong G , Martin CA
Published: August 2015

The effects of ingesting ethanol have been shown to be somewhat variable in humans; there appear to be but few universals. Yet, questions about intoxication often are asked by law enforcement personnel (especially relative to DUI), clinicians and various individuals in social settings. A key question: Is it possible to determine if a person is intoxicated by observing them in some manner? A closely associated one: Can speech be used for that purpose? Two of the many issues related to the second of these questions involve the possibility that (1) speakers, especially actors, can effectively mimic the speech of intoxicated individuals, and (2) they may be able to volitionally reduce any speech degradation which results from intoxication. The approach used to test these two questions tasked auditors to determine if these simulations were possible. To this end, young, healthy actors chosen on the basis of a large number of selection criteria were asked to produce several types of controlled utterances (1) during a learning phase, (2) when sober, (3) at three simulated levels of intoxication (mildly, legally and severely drunk), (4) during actual, and parallel, levels of intoxication, and (5) at the highest intoxication level attained but when attempting to sound completely sober. Two aural-perceptual studies were conducted: both involved counterbalanced ABX procedures where each subject was paired with him/herself. Listeners were normally hearing university students drawn from undergraduate phonetics and linguistics courses. In the first study, they rated the actors as being more intoxicated—when they actually were sober but simulating drunkenness—88% more often than when they actually were intoxicated. In the second study, they were judged as sounding less inebriated when attempting to sound sober (than they actually were) 61% of the time. These relationships would appear to impact a number of situations; one of special importance would be the detection of intoxication in motorists.
Thermal Stability of Direct Dental Esthetic Restorative Materials at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Robinson FG , Rueggeberg FA , Lockwood PE
Published: August 2015

With increasing use of direct esthetic restorative materials, the identity of a body may rely upon knowledge of temperature effects on this class of dental restorations. This research examined the effect of atmospheric gas on thermal decomposition and color change of a wide variety of direct esthetic restorative materials. Cured discs (4 × 1 and 8 × 1 mm) were made using manufacturer's directions: traditional glass ionomer (Fuji II), light-curable resonomer (Fuji II LC), compomer (Geristore™), and three types of resin composites—highly filled, urethane-based (Occlusin™), and two Bis-GMA/TEGDMA resins: hybrid (Hercurlite® XRV™) and microfill (Silux Plus™). Three replications of each material were heated at 5°C/min in a thermogravimetric analysis unit using either room air or nitrogen purge to simulate different thermal environments. First derivative values of percent weight loss with respect to temperature were obtained to determine temperatures associated with increased decomposition rates. Room-air heating showed greater numbers of decomposition events than did nitrogen-heated discs. The only material decomposing less than 200°C in either atmosphere was traditional glass ionomer. The majority of decomposition occurred between 200° and 500°C for all materials. Only products containing glass ionomer components decomposed between 600° and 800°C. Room-air heating resulted in ash white discs at 800°C and higher. Specimens heated in nitrogen were gray to black at 600°C and higher. Heating atmosphere greatly affected color, and some products demonstrated distinguishing color changes: glass ionomers, in particular, showed characteristic color features. An atlas was constructed from color change of specimens recovered after 200°, 400°, 600°, 800°, and 1000°C compared with non-heated controls.
Development and Population Study of an Eight-Locus Short Tandem Repeat (STR) Multiplex System
Authors: Lins AM , Micka KA , Sprecher CJ , Taylor JA , Bacher JW , Rabbach DR , Bever RA , Creacy SD , Schumm JW
Published: August 2015

Amplification of short tandem repeat (STR) loci has become a useful tool for human identification applications. To improve throughput and efficiency for such uses, the polymorphic STR loci CSF1PO, TPOX, TH01, vWA, D16S539, D7S820, D13S317, D5S818, F13A01, FESFPS, F13B, and LPL have been evaluated, developed, and configured into fluorescently labeled multiplex systems. Eight of these STR loci were combined to generate the PowerPlex™ System, a two-color multiplex system that supports rapid, accurate, reliable analysis and designation of alleles. The remaining four loci comprise the FFFL System, a one-color multiplex system. The PowerPlex™ System may be evaluated alternatively as two one-color, four-locus multiplex systems. CTTv Multiplex and GammaSTR™ Multiplex. The products of multiplex amplification may be analyzed with a variety of fluorescence detection instruments. Determination of genotypes of over 200 individuals from each of three different population/ethnic groups revealed independence of inheritance of the loci and allowed calculation of matching probability, typical paternity index, and power of exclusion for each multiplex.
Population Genetics and Forensic Applications Using Multiplex PCR (CSF1PO, TPOX, and TH01) Loci in the Basque Country
Authors: de Pancorbo MM , Castro A , Fernández-Fernández I , García-Orad A
Published: August 2015

A population study in a sample of 200 unrelated individuals from the Basque Country (Northern Spain) was carried out using the GenePrint STR Multiplex System. The PCR products were electrophorized on a denaturing polyacrylamide gel and visualized by silver staining. The loci are TH01, TPOX, and CSF1PO. All loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations, and independence of alelles at these STR loci was found. A comparison with other population groups appeared to indicate that frequencies are well conserved in Caucasians, but differ from those of other racial groups. We have also calculated Fst as a measure of population subdivision. No appreciable genetic subdivision in the Caucasian populations studied here was found. Some statistical parameters of forensic interest (Pex, PM and PD) were also calculated. No exclusions were found in 100 mother-child and father-child meiosis. To evaluate the applicability of these systems to forensic casework, we studied the minimum quantity of DNA which can be used applying the multiplex methodology, and the minimum quantity that can be typed in a mixed sample. We also examined several samples such as hair roots, semen stains, vaginal swabs, blood stains and temporary teeth, each of these of varying ages.
Validation of Capillary Electrophoresis for Analysis of the X-Y Homologous Amelogenin Gene
Authors: LaFountain M , Schwartz M , Cormier J , Buel E
Published: August 2015

Capillary electrophoresis (CE) is a versatile technology with tremendous potential applications in forensic science. A refinement of the traditional slab-gel, separation occurs in a liquid polymer contained within a capillary. The capillary electrophoresis unit is computer-driven, semi-automating the loading and analysis of samples.

As with any new technology, a full performance assessment is required before it may be implemented with confidence. This paper focuses on validation of CE technology for analysis of a portion of the X-Y homologous amelogenin gene used in gender determination. Typical Y/X ratios of peak heights for male samples were determined. Instrument linearity, sample resolution and reproducibility were examined. Samples subjected to contamination, extreme environmental conditions or extracted from a variety of substrates were also tested by CE. All samples typed correctly. Genetic material from a number of common non-primate animals was amplified with amelogenin primers. Some species yielded no product. Products derived from the animal samples that did amplify produced peaks on CE analysis readily distinguishable from those of human origin.
Polymarker, HLA-DQA1, and D1S80 Allele Frequency Data in Chamorro and Filipino Populations from Guam
Authors: Budowle B , Baechtel FS , Fejeran R
Published: August 2015

Allele frequencies were determined in sample populations of Chamorros and Filipinos from Guam at the loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, HLA-DQA1, and D1S80. Variable number tandem repeat alleles at the D1S80 locus were detected by silver staining following electrophoresis of amplified products in polyacrylamide. Allelic products of the other loci were detected by reverse dot blot hybridization following a multiplex amplification procedure. All loci, in both sample populations, are highly polymorphic and meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations, except for the D1S80 locus in the Chamorro population sample (p = 0.025). An interclass correlation analysis detected only one marginally significant departure from independence out of a total of 42 pairwise comparisons of the seven loci for both data sets (LDLR/HBGG in Chamorros, p = 0.048). The Chamorro and Filipino allele frequency data are similar to each other at six of the seven loci with only a marginally significant difference at the HLA-DQA1 locus (p = 0.049).
Recovery of DNA from Human Teeth by Cryogenic Grinding
Authors: Sweet D , Hildebrand D
Published: August 2015

DNA has been previously recovered from human teeth for RFLP and PCR-based forensic analysis. In some cases, the maximum amount of undisturbed tooth structure is required for ulterior forensic analysis. But, in most cases, following comprehensive documentation, it is possible to section the tooth longitudinally or horizontally, or crush it to access the DNA-rich core. This technical report describes an alternative method to recover DNA from whole extracted human molar teeth. A 6700 freezer mill was used to pulverize 20 teeth under frozen preparation in liquid nitrogen and sterile conditions. The mean yield of DNA was 30.9 μg (18.4 μg DNA per gm tooth powder). The resulting fine powder was subjected to organic extraction and subsequently quantified using slot blot hybridization. Aliquots were successfully amplified at three short tandem repeat polymorphic loci. The technique is simple and relatively rapid. Isolation of the samples during pulverization minimizes the risk of contamination.
Evaluation of a Sampling Procedure for Heroin Street Doses
Authors: Azoury M , Grader-Sageev D , Avraham S
Published: August 2015

New legislation regarding methods of drug sampling was passed in Israel in 1991. According to this law, the qualitative result (i.e., identification of the drug) as well as the estimated weight for the total exhibit, based on random sampling, are applied to the total exhibit and may be accepted as evidence. Since then, it has become standard procedure in the Analytical Chemistry Laboratory to open, weigh and analyze only a part of a larger number of drug steet doses while the indictment is based on the estimated weight of the total exhibit. In this study, the routine sampling method for heroin street doses used in the laboratory is described and evaluated. For this purpose, 48 exhibits, including about 1300 street doses of powder which had been sampled and examined in the past, have been collected. The previously unanalyzed street doses of each exhibit were weighed and the true total weight of each exhibit was compared with the original estimated total weight. The relative sampling error of the original estimates is about 5% and these tend to be lower than the true weight by about 0.7%. Additional random sampling was also performed on the 48 exhibits, creating for each exhibit four new samples from the unanalyzed street doses. The additional estimates have been compared with the original estimated and the true total weight. Heroin was detected in all the previously unanalyzed street doses.
Rise of Liquid Drops in Immiscible Liquid: A Simple, Novel, and Rapid Method to Determine the Density of Microquantity Liquids
Authors: Srinivasan GJ , Thirunavukkarasu G , Satyanarayana P
Published: August 2015

A simple, novel, and rapid method for the determination of density of microquantity liquids is described. The method may be employed in forensic science when liquids sent for analysis are available in microquantities (even up to 0.5 μL) for which density cannot be determined either by the capillary tube method, where accurate weighing is a problem, or by the other conventional methods such as specific gravity bottle method, Pyknometer method, or the Westphal-balance method. The retrieval of the sample is also possible in this method, which allows the analyst to carry out further analysis.
Stability of Tricyclic Antidepressants in Formalin Solutions
Authors: Takayasu T , Holterman K , Ohshima T , Pounder DJ
Published: August 2015

We investigated the stability of the secondary amines, desipramine (DP) and nortriptyline (NRT), and the tertiary amines, imipramine (IP) and amitriptyline (AT), in formaldehyde (F) and paraformaldehyde (PF) aqueous solutions. NRT showed little instability in 0.37 to 37% F and PF solutions, but AT formation was detected and increased, up to 0.46 to 2.7%, in parallel with rising F and PF concentrations. DP was unstable and levels decreased to 74 to 96% with increasing F concentrations, and fell only to 96% in 10% PF solution. IP formation increased in the same manner as AT to 2.9 to 3.5% of the initial DP. When AT and IP were stored in F and PF solutions, concentrations of AT and IP did not change. DP in F pH 3 to 11 phosphate buffer (PB) solutions showed high recovery in the order: pH 5 > pH 7 > pH 9 > pH 3 and pH 11. DP in PF buffered solutions decreased slightly only at pH 3 (3.5%). By contrast, IP did not change at any pH (pH 3 to 11) of the F or PF solutions. During storage for 21 days at room temperature in 3.7% F and PF solutions, IP and DP degradation was accelerated when compared with the values in pH 3 and 7 PB solutions. However, IP detected in DP F or PF solution was only 0.2% of the initial DP 21 days after storage. Thus, AT, NRT, IP and DP degraded gradually in F and PF solutions during storage at room temperature. TCAs may first react nucleophilically with formaldehyde to form hemiaminals. DP in 3.7% formaldehyde aqueous solution formed little of its methylated product, IP, at room temperature.
Improved GC/MS Analysis of Opiates with Use of Oxime-TMS Derivatives
Authors: Cremese M , Wu AHB , Cassella G , O'Connor E , Rymut K , Hill DW
Published: August 2015

An improved gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric (GC/MS) assay is described for the quantitation of codeine and morphine as trimethylsyl (TMS) derivatives. The TMS derivatization of ketone-containing opiates results in the formation of multiple derivatives. Some of these products have retention times close to those of codeine-TMS and morphine-TMS. When the ketoopiates are present in samples assayed for codeine and morphine in urine, they can interfere with the quantitation of these commonly targeted opiates. The assay was improved with the addition of a pre-BSTFA derivatization step, whereby hydroxylamine was used to convert the keto-opiates into the corresponding oxime derivative. These derivatives were then reacted with BSTFA to form the TMS ethers and TMS oxime derivatives. The oxime step enabled production of single derivatives for hydrocodone and hydromorphone. In addition, the retention times for the oxime-TMS derivatives were increased so that they no longer elute near the targeted drugs of codeine and morphine. The addition of the oxime step does not affect the sylation of codeine and morphine, and the accuracy and precision of this assay were unaffected.
Vitamin B2 Interference with TDx Drugs-of-Abuse Assays
Authors: Kunsman GW , Levine B , Smith ML
Published: August 2015

Migraine is a headache condition found in significant frequency in the general population. One recent study has shown that riboflavin, Vitamin B2, is an effective prophylactic treatment for this headache condition. One subject in a recent study conducted by the Division of Forensic Toxicology. Armed Forces Institute of Pathology (AFIP) was taking 200 mg of riboflavin twice daily for the prevention of migraine headaches. When that subject's urine was tested using Abbott TDx drugs-of-abuse assays a number of tests resulted in a MX BKG error and all samples had BLK I values greater than those observed with normal urine specimens. The MX BKG error occurs when the BLK I value is greater than the upper limit determined by the manufacturer for a particular assay. High BLK I values may result if the specimen being analyzed contains a fluorophore that will compete with the fluorescein-labeled antibody used in the assay. This error serves as a notification that an interfering substance may be present and the assay is not performing according to manufacturer-specifications. Upon termination of riboflavin therapy the subject's BLK I values began to decrease within 60 h of the last 200 mg dose. A second subject began chronic riboflavin use to confirm this interferent effect. Elevated BLK I values resulted within 3 h of a single 200 mg dose and MX BKG errors occurred 1 h after a second 400 mg dose. No false negative results were noted with either subject (both subjects used butalbital and the first subject also used hydrocodone and diazepam during the study), suggesting that riboflavin is not an adulterant. Riboflavin use, however, does interfere with the TDx DAU assays and may result in quantitative values being determined which are of questionable validity in the face of an elevated BLK I value or may result in only an MX BKG error and no quantitative value reported. It is unclear if the interfering fluorophore is simply riboflavin itself or a combination of riboflavin and its metabolic products. Results obtained on urine samples collected from individuals using prophylactic riboflavin for migraine prevention and analyzed by TDx may be of questionable validity. Such samples may require analysis utilizing another immunoassay technique that does not employ a fluorescein-labeled antibody.
Sudden Death in Police Pursuit
Authors: Thogmartin JR
Published: August 2015

A rare complication of sickle cell trait is sudden death and collapse. Military recruits, pilots, and subjects exposed to hypoxic stress such as high altitude and experiencing sudden cardiorespiratory collapse as a result of sickle cell trait have been well described. This is a case of a 13-year-old black male who collapsed after a police pursuit and was found to have sickle cell trait and microscopic evidence of asthma.
In-Vivo Glutaraldehyde Fixation of the Brain Stem and Spinal Cord After Inadvertent Intrathecal Injection
Authors: Davis JH , Mittleman RE
Published: August 2015

A 64-year-old diabetic man underwent total maxillectomy with orbital exenteration because of recurrent carcinoma. In order to decrease pressure at the surgical site, 50 mL of cerebrospinal fluid were withdrawn. After the procedure was completed, 5% glutaraldehyde was inadvertently injected into the subarachnoid space instead of reinjection of the original cerebrospinal fluid. The patient suffered hypotension and coma culminating in death five days after the procedure. Postmortem examination revealed exquisite fixation of the outer cortical shell of the spinal cord and brain stem. The mishap occurred because an unlabeled vial was mistaken for the withdrawn cerebrospinal fluid. Graicunas' theory and formula on relationship complexities in organizations is exemplified by this occurrence. One may calculate the theoretical potential for 24,708 miscommunications during such a complex and lengthy surgical procedure. Proper operating room procedures must be developed and followed in order to prevent such tragedies.
Fatal Heatstroke in a Young Woman with Previously Undiagnosed Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
Authors: Siegler RW
Published: August 2015

Heatstroke represents the most severe form of the heat-related illnesses. Potentially fatal, heatstroke most often affects the elderly, obese, or chronically ill. Thyroid disease, which may interfere with the normal regulation of body temperature, has not previously been reported in cases of heatstroke. A fatal case is reported in a young woman discovered unconscious in a sauna who was found to have preexisting Hashimoto's thyroiditis on subsequent autopsy. The diagnosis of hypothyroidism in heatstroke rests on clinical information and morphologic observations. This case underscores the importance of evaluating the thyroid in unusual cases of heatstroke.
Death Following Minor Head Trauma in Two Adult Individuals with the Chiari I Deformity
Authors: Wolf DA , Veasey SP , Wilson SK , Adame J , Korndorffer WE
Published: August 2015

Reports of sudden death associated with minor head trauma in adults with the Chiari I malformation are rare. We describe two such cases, occurring in a 71-year-old individual and in a 22-year-old individual. In both cases, postmortem examination revealed prominent cerebellar tonsillar herniation and, in one, associated tonsillar sclerosis and hydrocephalus. Evidence of trauma was minimal in both, and was not sufficient to explain these fatalities. We describe the neuropathologic findings and discuss the differential diagnostic considerations in these cases of sudden death. The implications regarding manner of death are also emphasized.
Familial Thoracic Aortic Aneurysms and Dissections
Authors: Prahlow JA , Barnard JJ , Milewicz DM
Published: August 2015

Rupture of thoracic aortic aneurysms and/or dissections is not rare, occurring in approximately 0.6% of all medicolegal autopsies. Most forensic pathologists are aware of the association between thoracic aortic aneurysms/dissections and trauma, atherosclerosis, inflammation and Marfan syndrome. In this report, we discuss a familial form of thoracic aortic dilatation and/or dissection that is distinct from Marfan syndrome. In addition, we review the topic of thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection and encourage family notification by forensic pathologists when familial forms of aortic disease are suspected at autopsy.
A Fatal Case of Benzene Poisoning
Authors: Barbera N , Bulla G , Romano G
Published: August 2015

Chronic effects following repeated exposure to low doses of benzene have been well assessed, whereas few data are available about acute exposure to benzene. We report a case of fatal acute intoxication which occurred aboard a chemical cargo ship.

Autopsy findings included blood clots inside the heart and main vessels, multi-organ congestion, pulmonary edema and the presence of many vibices in the hypostatic areas.

Toxicological analysis of blood and urine showed a benzene concentration of 31.67 and 2.26 μg/mL, respectively; high concentrations of benzene (μg/g) were also found in the lungs (22.23), liver (378.60), brain (178.66), heart (182.57) and kidneys (75.15). The above data provide evidence for benzene distribution in various organs.