bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated Plasma Concentration of Asymmetric Dimethylarginine That Is Reduced by Single Dose Testosterone Administration in Idiopathic Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism Patients
Authors: Cakir Erdinc , Ozcan Omer , Yaman Halil , Akgul Emin Ozgur , Bilgi Cumhur , Erbil M. Kemal , Yesilova Zeki
Published: March 2005

Our aim was to investigate whether plasma l-arginine and asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) concentrations and nitric oxide (NO) production are altered in male idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH) patients in the hypogonadal state and after single dose testosterone administration compared with those in control subjects. Eighteen newly diagnosed male patients with IHH and 20 healthy volunteer controls matched by age and body mass index were enrolled in the study. Single dose testosterone was administrated im. Initially, pretreatment blood samples were collected after overnight fasting. Posttreatment blood samples were drawn 10 d after the injection. ADMA, l-arginine, and NO were measured in pre- and posttreatment blood samples. The pretreatment ADMA and l-arginine levels were significantly higher, and plasma nitrite plus nitrate (NOx) levels were lower than those in the control group. After 10 d of treatment, ADMA and l-arginine levels were significantly reduced, and NOx levels were significantly increased. There was a significant positive correlation (P < 0.01) between ADMA and l-arginine and a negative correlation between ADMA and NOx levels in patients and controls. In conclusion, the patients with IHH showed elevated plasma ADMA levels associated with a reduction in NO production. Single dose parenteral T administration lowered ADMA concentrations and increased NO production to the control group values.
Functional INAD complexes are required to mediate degeneration in photoreceptors of theDrosophila rdgAmutant
Authors: Georgiev Plamen , Garcia-Murillas Isaac , Ulahannan Danny , Hardie Roger C. , Raghu Padinjat
Published: March 2005

The TRP family of ion channels mediates a wide range of calcium-influx phenomena in eukaryotic cells. Many members of this family are activated downstream of phosphoinositide hydrolysis but the subsequent steps that lead to TRP channel activation in vivo remain unclear. Recently, the lipid products of phosphoinositide hydrolysis (such as diacylglycerol and its metabolites) have been implicated in activating TRP channels in both Drosophila and mammals. In Drosophila photoreceptors, lack of diacylglycerol kinase (DGK) activity (encoded by rdgA) leads to both constitutive TRP-channel activity and retinal degeneration. In this study, using a novel forward-genetic screen, we identified InaD, a multivalent PDZ domain protein as a suppresser of retinal degeneration in rdgA mutants. We show that InaD suppresses rdgA and that the rescue is correlated with reduced levels of phospholipase Cβ (PLCβ), a key enzyme for TRP channel activation. Furthermore, we show that light, Gq and PLCβ all modulate retinal degeneration in rdgA. The results demonstrate a previously unknown requirement for a balance of PLCβ and DGK activity for retinal degeneration in rdgA. They also suggest a key role for the lipid products of phosphoinositide hydrolysis in the activation of TRP channels in vivo.
Prokinetic Drug Therapy in Children: A Review of Current Options
Authors: Chicella Michael F , Batres L Arturo , Heesters Michael S , Dice James E
Published: March 2005

OBJECTIVE:

To review the pharmacology, safety, and efficacy of the prokinetic agents metoclopramide and erythromycin in children.

DATA SOURCES:

English-language literature was accessed using MEDLINE (1970–June 2004) with metoclopramide, erythromycin, macrolides, gastroesophageal reflux, and gastrointestinal motility as the search terms.

STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION:

Abstracts and original research articles were included. Preference was given to published controlled trials. Articles providing descriptions of pharmacology, safety, and effectiveness of metoclopramide and erythromycin for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux (GER) were also used in this review.

DATA SYNTHESIS:

Some authors advocate using a prokinetic agent along with acid suppression for treatment of GER in children. The 2 prokinetic agents most commonly used are erythromycin and metoclopramide. Erythromycin has numerous observational reports and controlled trials demonstrating its efficacy in improving feeding tolerance in children. Adverse drug reactions associated with its use were uncommon in prospective controlled trials. Few data support the use of metoclopramide for management of GER, and the potential adverse effects associated with its use need to be considered before prescribing.

CONCLUSIONS:

The literature supports the use of erythromycin as a prokinetic agent. Many children with GER are adequately controlled with acid suppression alone; however, if use of a prokinetic agent is warranted, erythromycin in combination with acid suppression should be considered. Given the lack of prospective controlled studies demonstrating metoclopramide's efficacy and safety in the treatment of GER in children, metoclopramide should not be considered a treatment option.
Takeover Bid Transactions and Information Asymmetry: Assessment of the Efficiency of the Investment and Securities Act 1999
Authors: Bolodeoku Ige Omotayo
Published: March 2005

The article examines the value of information to the decisions shareholders are expected to make in takeover bid transactions. In particular, it addresses the facilitative role of the target board in Nigeria which the governing legislation—the Investment and Securities Act (ISA) 1999—expects the board to play through the directors' circular. The article points out that, while it is commendable for the Nigerian legislature to import takeover bid regulations from abroad, the provisions of the ISA dealing with the directors' circular demonstrate a total lack of understanding by the legislature of the importance of the circular. By examining the takeover bid regulations of the Province of Ontario, which are essentially similar to those in the ISA, the article highlights the lacunae in the Nigerian law so future reform of the law may take them into account. It concludes that, unless the information contents of the directors' circular are redesigned, shareholders will continue to suffer from avoidable information asymmetry, which may add to the transaction cost of exit.
Improved Method for the Detection of TATP After Explosion
Authors: Muller D , Levy A , Shelef R , Abramovich-Bar S , Sonenfeld D , Tamiri T
Published: March 2005

TATP in post explosion exhibits was reported earlier to be best recovered from vapor phase. A typical procedure includes its adsorption on Amberlite XAD-7, elution with acetonitrile and analysis by GC/MS. In this work, improved recovery of TATP from the vapor phase was achieved by SPME using PDMS/DVB fiber and immediate sampling to GC/MS. The recovery of TATP by SPME was compared with headspace and with adsorption on Amberlite XAD-7 by spiking onto filter paper put in a 100 mL beaker. The limit of detection of TATP was 6.4 ng in these conditions, few orders magnitude more than in the other tested methods. Recovery of TATP in the presence of various solvents was also studied. Acetone, water, and mixtures of water:alcohols (1:1) were found to reduce the recovery of TATP. Using SPME, TATP has been identified in dozens of post-explosion cases.
Allele Frequency Data for Profiler Plus Loci in Australia
Authors: Weir B S , Bagdonavicius A , Blair B , Eckhoff C , Pearman C , Stringer P , Sutton J , West J , Wynen L
Published: March 2005

Data from over 12,000 Profiler PlusTM profiles collected from eight Australian forensic agencies have been combined to give samples for three major groups: Asian (N ¯721), Aboriginal (N ¯ 3515) and Caucasian (N ¯ 8261).
Effect of Eight Solvents on Ethanol Analysis by Draäger 7110 Evidential Breath Analyzer
Authors: Laakso O , Pennanen T , Himberg K , Kuitunen T , Himberg JJ
Published: March 2005

The Dräger 7110 MK III FIN Evidential breath analyzer is classified as a quantitative analyzer capable to provide sufficient evidence for establishing legal intoxication. The purpose of this study was to evaluate ethanol specificity of this instrument in the presence of other solvents. Effects of eight possible interfering compounds on ethanol analysis were determined in a procedure simulating a human breathing. Most of the compounds studied had either a negligible effect on ethanol analysis (acetone, methyl ethyl ketone, and methyl isobutyl ketone) or were detected in very low concentrations before influencing ethanol readings (methanol, ethyl acetate, and diethyl ether). However, 1-propanol and 2-propanol increased the ethanol readings significantly. Thus, Draäer ethanol readings should be interpreted carefully in the presence of propanol.
Effects of Processing Techniques on the Forensic DNA Analysis of Human Skeletal Remains
Authors: Arismendi JL , Baker LE , Matteson KJ
Published: March 2005

Human remains processed by forensic anthropologists may potentially be used for genetic analysis. Therefore, the condition of the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) in processed remains may become an issue for future analysis. Processing techniques employed by anthropologists are highly variable and scanning electron microscopy reveals significant alterations to the bone surface depending upon the technique used. Such damage to the bone indicates differences may exist in quality and quantity of DNA extracted. This study assessed how five processing procedures used by major forensic anthropology laboratories around the country affects the amounts of DNA extracted from human rib bones and the subsequent DNA analysis. The DNA was analyzed using the short tandem repeat (STR) locus CSF1PO and amelogenin. The findings indicate processing procedures used by forensic anthropologists do not adversely affect DNA analysis but prolonged exposure to heat during processing may decrease the yield of information from the DNA.
Analysis of Nitrite in Adulterated Urine Samples by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Kinkennon AE , Black DB , Robert TA , Stout PR
Published: March 2005

A simple method for analyzing nitrite in urine has been developed to confirm and quantify the amount of nitrite in potentially adulterated urine samples. The method involved separation of nitrite by capillary electrophoresis and direct UV detection at 214 nm. Separation was performed using a bare fused silica capillary and a 25 mM phosphate run buffer at a pH of 7.5. Sample preparation consisted of diluting the urine samples 1:20 with run buffer and internal standard, and centrifuging for 5 min at 2500 rpm. The sample was hydrodynamically injected, then separated using –25 kV with the column maintained at 35C. The method had upper and lower limits of linearity of 1500 and 80 ∐g/mL nitrite, respectively, and a limit of detection of 20 ∐g/mL. The method was evaluated using the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards (NCCLS) protocol (Document EP10–A2), and validated using controls, standards, and authentic urine samples. Ten anions, ClO¯, CrO¯4 2, NO¯3, HCO¯3 , I¯, CH3COO¯, F¯, SO¯4 , S2O¯8 2, and Cl¯, were tested for potential interference with the assay. Interferences with quantitation were noted for only CrO¯4 2 and S2O¯8 2. High concentrations of Cl- interfered with the chromatography. The method had acceptable accuracy, precision, and specificity.
Use of Solid-Phase Double-Antibody Radioimmunoassay to Identify Species from Small Skeletal Fragments
Authors: Ubelaker DH , Lowenstein JM , Hood DG
Published: March 2005

Protein radioimmunoassay (pRIA) offers the potential to identify species in small skeletal fragments submitted as forensic evidence. The technique consists of protein extraction followed by a solid-phase double-antibody radioimmunoassay using controls of antisera (raised in rabbits) and radioactive (iodine-125) antibody of rabbit gamma globulin (produced in donkeys). Species determination results from evaluation of radioactivity uptake. To demonstrate the potential of this technique, six known bone samples (three human and three nonhuman, including one from a deer [Odocoileus virginianus]) were submitted for blind analysis. pRIA correctly distinguished the human from the nonhuman samples. Using 200 mg or less of each sample, species of the deer specimen was identified correctly, given the choices of cow, deer, dog, goat, and pig.
The Belated Autopsy and Identification of an Eighteenth Century Naval Hero—The Saga of John Paul Jones
Authors: Rogers NL , Field K , Froede RC , Towne B
Published: March 2005

John Paul Jones, the “Father of the American Navy,” is known for the battletime assertion that he had “not yet begun to fight.” His central role in a triumph of scientific forensic identification more than a century after his death is less known. John Paul Jones died in 1792 and was buried in Paris, France. The location of his grave was lost over time and a search for his corpse began in 1899. Remains matching his physical characteristics and circumstance of burial were discovered in 1905 and returned to the United States for a hero's burial. Some questioned the identification at the time and the major source of identifying information (17) has since been shown to contain false information. The published forensic literature fails to address existing critiques of the identification. We provide a substantive analysis and conclude that the available evidence supports the identification of the unknown remains as those of John Paul Jones. Erratum to this paper appears in 49(5).
Fingerprint's Third Dimension: The Depth and Shape of Fingerprints Penetration into Paper—Cross Section Examination by Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Almog J , Azoury M , Elmaliah Y , Berenstein L , Zaban A
Published: March 2005

In an attempt to maximize the yield of latent fingerprints from paper items, we conducted a study of a fundamental process between fingerprint deposits and paper. Fingerprint ridges have been observed in the cross section of paper by fluorescence microscopy. It was possible to see, for the first time, how residue from fingerprint ridges is embedded in paper. Undeveloped, latent fingerprints, as well as latent prints developed by the two fluorogenic reagents, DFO and 1,2-indanedione, have been examined. The shape and depth of penetration of fingerprints vary with different types of paper. An inverse relationship between the smoothness of the paper and the penetration depth was observed: higher smoothness values result in lower depths of penetration. High quality prints appear to correlate with an optimal penetration depth—between 40 and 60 microns.
Body Height Estimation Based on Dimensions of Sacral and Coccygeal Vertebrae
Authors: Pelin C , Duyar İ , Kayahan EM , Zagyapan R , Ağildere AM , Erar A
Published: March 2005

This study is to evaluate whether it is possible to predict living stature from sacral and coccygeal vertebral dimensions. Individual vertebral body heights, sacral height(SH), and sacrococcygeal height (SCH) were recorded from the magnetic resonance images of 42 adult males. Sum of the heights of five sacral vertebrae (ΣS), the first four coccygeal vertebrae (ΣC), and the total height of the sacral and the first four coccygeal vertebrae together (ΣSC) were also recorded. Linear regression equations for stature estimation were produced using the above mentioned variables. The regression equations were constructed and tested by using jack-knife procedure. Statistical analyses indicated that the combined variables (SH, SCH, ΣS, ΣC, ΣSC) were more accurate predictors of stature than the heights of individual vertebrae. The results of the study pointed out that the equations derived from sacrococcygeal dimensions perform somewhat better than ones based on foot and head variables, but worse than those based on long-bone length. As a conclusion, the dimensions of sacral and coccygeal vertebrae could be used for stature estimation when long bones are not available.
Sub-sampling and Preparing Forensic Samples for Pollen Analysis?
Authors: Horrocks M
Published: March 2005

The main forensic application of palynology is in providing associative evidence, assisting to prove or disprove a link between people and objects with places or with other people. Although identification and interpretation of pollen is a specialist job, sub-sampling and preparing pollen samples for analysis may be carried out by non-specialists. As few forensic laboratories have residing palynologists, laboratories may wish to reduce the cost of analysis or risk of contamination by doing their own sub-sampling and preparation. Presented is a practical guide for sub-sampling and preparing forensic samples for pollen analysis, providing a complete standard procedure for both the palynologist and non-specialist. Procedures for sub-sampling include a wide variety of materials commonly collected for forensic analysis (soil, clothing and other fabrics, footwear, twine and rope, firearms, granulated materials, plant and animal material, and illicit drugs), many of which palynologists will not be familiar with. Procedures for preparation of samples (pollen concentration) are presented as a detailed, step-by-step method. Minimizing the risks of laboratory and cross-sample contamination during sub-sampling and preparation is emphasized.
Fetal Visceral Maturation: A Useful Contribution to Gestational Age Estimation in Human Fetuses
Authors: Piercecchi-Marti MD , Adalian P , Liprandi A , Figarella-Branger D , Dutour O , Leonetti G
Published: March 2005

With regard to the law, estimating fetal age is essential to assess viability (after 20 weeks according to the WHO) and the proposed methods generally use long bone measurements. Here, we evaluated the accuracy of soft tissue maturational stage and compared it with long bone measurements. First, eight kinds of tissues or organs from 448 fetuses with known medical history were studied (macroscopically or histologically). We clearly demonstrated that adrenal glands and skin were very good age indicators, because some characteristics appeared only after 20 weeks. We established a linear regression with a 95% confidence interval of +/− 2.9 weeks. Second, we applied our original formula using femur measurement and we combined soft tissues and bones in a multiparametric regression. The confidence interval was reduced to +/− 2.5 weeks. We conclude that the pathologist must use both histological and anthropometric data to determine fetal age as accurately as possible.
Dental Maturity in South France: A Comparison Between Demirjian's Method and Polynomial Functions
Authors: Chaillet N , Demirjian A
Published: March 2005

The dental maturity of 1031 healthy southern French subjects aged between 2 and 18 years was studied with dental panoramic tomograms. Demirjian's method based on seven and eight teeth has been used to determine maturity scores as a function of age and polynomial functions to determine age as a function of score. We give gender-specific tables of maturity scores and development graphs for each method. The goal of these methods is different because of the nature of the predictions. The percentiles give the dental maturity compared to a standard for a specific age, and polynomial functions give an age prediction with a confidence interval for age. The variations in dental maturity are specific to each population. Thus, the aim of this study is to give the dental maturity standards for southern French children and to compare both the efficiency and applicability of each method in several fields such as forensic sciences or dental health for the clinicians. The addition of the third molar increased the reliability and the capacity of prediction up to 18 years. The polynomial functions showed the best reliability (1.3% of misclassified) and the percentile methods the best accuracy (more or less 1.2 years, on average, between 2 and 18 years of age).
Successional Behavior and Occurrence Matrix of Carrion-Associated Arthropods in the Urban Area of Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Pérez S , Duque P , Wolff M
Published: March 2005

Forensic entomology is a scientific tool applied to the study of insect or arthropod succession at the scene of a crime or that associated with an accident or natural death. Interpreting this succession provides information to determine minimum and maximum limits of the Postmortem Interval (PMI), that is, the time between death and the discovery of the body. This study was carried out during the rainy season, from 27 October to 12 December 2002 in an urban area of the city of Medellín, Colombia. Three domestic pigs were used as animal models. The results showed that both the aforementioned species as well as the physical characteristics of the carcass determined the indicator species of the postmortem interval in urban areas of the city. In total, 11,937 individuals were collected and identified, belonging to 12 orders, 29 families and 42 genera. Diptera were the most abundant order (90%) represented mainly by Calliphoridae (80%). Coleoptera were scarcely present, representing only 2.8% of the total collected. Based on information obtained of eggs and larvae reared to adult of this successional study, an occurrence matrix was elaborated for determining of the PMI. From the same study area and under the same conditions, a list of arthropods associated with carrion is presented in this manuscript.
Use of a Television Crime-Drama Series to Promote Legal Understanding in Mentally Ill, Incompetent Defendants: A Pilot Study
Authors: Montgomery J , Brooks MH
Published: March 2005

Videotaped material is used for educational purposes in many areas of medicine. In forensic facilities, programs designed to restore competency to stand trial (CST) in incompetent, mentally ill defendants have utilized videotaped courtroom proceedings as learning tools. This pilot study reviewed the progress of incompetent defendants (N = 15) who participated in a program that utilized videotaped segments of the television crime-drama “Law & Order”, among other techniques, to promote CST in individuals deemed unfit to stand trial. The authors hypothesized that participation in at least one cycle of the Competency Restoration Group (CRG)'s curriculum would be associated with improvement in the areas of understanding, reasoning and appreciation. In order to assess whether the group was beneficial to the patient's treatment goal of competency restoration, patients were screened using the MacArthur Competence Assessment Tool-Criminal Adjudication (MacCAT-CA) prior to starting the group and after completing a cycle of the group's curriculum. The Wilcoxon signed ranks test was employed to analyze the results from the pre-and post-group MacCAT-CA testing. The tests yielded significant (p < 0.005) post-test differences in the hypothesized direction for each of the three subsections: Understanding, Reasoning, and Appreciation as well as a significant post test improvement in the total MacCAT-CA scores. These results suggest that a didactic program, using a popular crime drama series, can be effective in facilitating learning in competency restoration programs. Limitations of this study include its lack of a control group and small population.
Aromatic Content in Medium Range Distillate ProductséPart 1: An Examination of Various Liquids
Authors: Dolan JA , Stauffer E
Published: March 2005

Classification of ignitable liquids in accordance with voluntary consensus-based standards published by ASTM International has become increasingly specific, relying upon both the chemical composition and the boiling point range of submitted ignitable liquids. This classification system includes among others, specific classes for distillates and dearomatized distillates. In this study, a variety of medium-range ignitable liquids were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Several methods of data analysis were utilized to examine the relative aliphatic and aromatic contents in these liquids. Results show that commercially available products in the medium range exhibit a broad range of compositions with respect to the relative proportion of aliphatic and aromatic compounds and that some liquids may not be easily classified. This study demonstrates the importance of examining the proportion of aliphatics:aromatics for classifying such liquids and suggests guidelines for differentiating medium range distillates, dearomatized distillates, and blended products.
Postmortem Non-Invasive Virtual Autopsy: Death by Hanging in a Car
Authors: Bolliger S , Thali M , Jackowski C , Aghayev E , Dirnhofer R , Sonnenschein M
Published: March 2005

A body was found behind a car with a noose tied around its neck, the other end of the rope tied to a tree. Apparently the man committed suicide by driving away with the noose tied around his neck and was dragged out of the car through the open hatchback. postmortem multislice-computed tomography (MSCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indicated that the cause of death was cerebral hypoxia due to classic strangulation by hanging, and not due to a brainstem lesion because of a hang-man fracture as would be expected in such a dynamic situation. Furthermore, the MRI displayed intramuscular haemorrhage, bleeding into the clavicular insertions of the sternocleidomastoid muscles and subcutaneous neck tissue. We conclude that MSCT and MRI are useful instruments with an increased value compared with 2D radiographs to augment the external findings of bodies when an autopsy is refused. But further postmortem research and comparing validation is needed.
Review of: On-Site Drug Testing
Authors: Larsen AK
Published: March 2005

This book is a comprehensive work on the history, development, and techniques involved in testing for drugs of abuse in the workplace. Those individuals who are just getting into the field of on-site drug testing as well as those routinely involved will find something of interest contained in this volume. The first chapter introduces the reader to point of care testing (POCT) and the decision making processes involved with selection and use of drug testing technology. The book proceeds with discussions of the testing used in therapeutic drug monitoring, chapters on the testing technologies themselves and concludes with a review of studies completed on the reliability of noninstrumented drug testing (NIDT) devices and finally a discussion of sample adulteration and the consequences to on-site drug testing.
A Research Review of Public Figure Threats, Approaches, Attacks, and Assassinations in the United States
Authors: Meloy JR , James DV , Farnham FR , Mullen PE , Pathe M , Darnley B , Preston L
Published: March 2005

The authors review extant research on threats, approaches, attacks, and assassinations of public figures in the United States. Despite the limited number of studies, data exist concerning: 1) threatening letters and approaches to celebrities; 2) attacks and assassinations of public figures, usually the President of the United States; 3) threats and approaches to legislative members of state and federal governments; and 4) threats, approaches, and attacks against federal judicial officials. Similarities and differences across the various studies are discussed. Consistent findings across the studies indicate that direct threats toward the target are unusual and are often correlated negatively with an approach or attack; a significant proportion of subjects are mentally ill and have criminal histories; many subjects evidenced a downward spiral in their lives in the months or year before their approach or attack; and if an attack occurred, it was predatory (instrumental, premeditated) rather than affective (emotional, reactive), and the weapon of choice was a firearm, usually a handgun. Operational guidance and further research recommendations are made.
Homicidal Cerebral Artery Aneurysm Rupture
Authors: Prahlow JA
Published: March 2005

When a normally natural mechanism of death is induced by physical injury or intense emotional stress, it is appropriate to rule the manner of death as something other than natural. When the case-specific circumstances are such that the death occurs as a result of the criminal activity of another person, it is acceptable to rule such deaths as homicides. Presented herein is a case of homicidal cerebral artery aneurysm rupture occuring in an intoxicated, 46-year-old man who was punched in the face by another individual. The details of the case are presented, followed by a discussion of the controversies that exist when dealing with such cases. Guidelines for investigating similar deaths are presented, with emphasis on the timing of the trauma in relation to onset of symptoms due to aneurysm rupture.
Medical Malpractice Charges in Germany - Role of the Forensic Pathologist in the Preliminary Criminal Proceeding
Authors: Dettmeyer R , Egl M , Madea B
Published: March 2005

Medical malpractice charges from 1989 to 2002 were evaluated. A rising number of cases during this period is evident. The charges of practice falling below the standard of care (n = 285) were surveyed to determine who informed the prosecution, which clinical subjects are involved, what kind of charges can be found and whether such allegations can be appropriately assessed by means of a forensic autopsy. Forensic pathologists were found to be useful for ascertainment and interpretation of autopsy findings. If special questions arise, an additional expert opinion should be suggested by the forensic pathologist. There was no relevant shift in the range of subjects involved compared to former studies. The investigated charges might represent only a small fraction of cases of medical practice falling below the standard of care.
Review of: Terrorism and Organized Hate Crime: Intelligence Gathering, Analysis, and Investigations
Authors: Ward RH
Published: March 2005

The author of Terrorism and Hate Crime, Ronczkowski, brings a broad background of experience to this effort, which serves as a basic for those interested in the fundamentals of crime analysis as it relates to terrorism and other forms of violent groups. In defining various forms of terrorism, the author emphasizes the importance of intelligence gathering and analysis.
Incidental Myocardial Infarction in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type IV?
Authors: Gilchrist ER , Duflou JA
Published: March 2005

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type IV is an illness that often leads to premature death due to arterial rupture or dissection and is characterized by very fragile connective tissue. This report documents the death of a 30-year-old man with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type IV from myocardial rupture and cardiac tamponade following a myocardial infarction. We believe that Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Type IV contributed to the coronary atherosclerosis and myocardial rupture in this young man and that this disease led indirectly to his death by myocardial infarction, an unusual cause of death in this syndrome.
Unexplained Sudden Death and the Likelihood of Drug Abuse
Authors: Gruszecki AC , McGwin G , Robinson CA , Davis GG
Published: March 2005

The common history of drug abuse in adults with an undetermined cause of death has led us to hypothesize that chronic drug abuse increases the risk of sudden death. To begin evaluating this hypothesis, we conducted a retrospective case-control study of 61 decedents whose cause of death remained undetermined following autopsy matched one to one to a control group of pedestrians or passengers killed in motor vehicle collisions. In 21 pairs, the case subject had evidence of drug abuse but the control did not, and in 5 cases the reverse was true. Analysis showed that individuals with an undetermined cause of death are 4.2 times more likely to have evidence of drug abuse than are victims of a motor vehicle collision.
Symmetrical Fracturing of the Skull from Midline Contact Gunshot Wounds: Reconstruction of Individual Death Histories from Skeletonized Human Remains
Authors: Fenton TW , Stefan VH , Wood LA , Sauer NJ
Published: March 2005

This paper reports a bilaterally symmetrical cranio-facial fracture pattern that is observed in self-inflicted, midline gunshot wounds. Five cases of self-inflicted gunshots wounds are presented as follows: two high-powered rifle cases, two shotgun cases, and one handgun case. In all five cases the remains were either decomposing or skeletonized and submitted to forensic anthropologists. Following identification, the main focus of the anthropological examination was the analysis of perimortem trauma to the skeleton. In each case, the skull was submitted in a highly fragmented state. Nevertheless, by focusing on the pattern of perimortem cranio-facial fractures, the anthropologists contributed key information regarding the circumstances of death. The observed symmetrical cranio-facial fracture patterns in the above cases are described in detail and interpreted. The specific location of the linear fractures is discussed, as well as the theoretical rationale behind the location in terms of skeletal architecture, such as buttresses, struts, and sutures. The interpretive framework provided by this paper may prove helpful to others who are faced with similar cases of cranio-facial fracturing.
President's Editorial—Some Thoughts on the Future of Scientific Publishing
Authors: Singer RL
Published: March 2005

As we approach the 50th anniversary of Journal of Forensic Sciences, it is fitting, perhaps, to consider the future of scientific journals in general, and by association, of the JFS in particular.
Review of: Vehicular Accident Investigation and Reconstruction
Authors: Batterman SC
Published: March 2005

This is a new book on accident investigation and reconstruction consisting of 19 chapters with the following headings:
A PCR Multiplex and Database for Forensic DNA Identification of Dogs
Authors: Halverson J , Basten C
Published: March 2005

Animal-derived trace evidence is a common finding at crime scenes and may provide an important link between victim(s) and suspect(s). A database of 558 dogs of pure and mixed breeds is described and analyzed with two PCR multiplexes of 17 microsatellites. Summary statistics (number of alleles, expected and observed heterozygosity and power of exclusion) are compared between breeds. Marked population substructure in dog breeds indicates significant inbreeding, and the use of a conservative Θ value is recommended in likelihood calculations for determining the significance of a DNA match. Evidence is presented that the informativeness of the canine microsatellites, despite inbreeding, is comparable to the human CODIS loci. Two cases utilizing canine DNA typing, State of Washington v. Kenneth Leuluaialii and George Tuilefano and Crown v. Daniel McGowan, illustrate the potential of canine microsatellite markers for forensic investigations.
How Long After Waterproofing a Deck Can You Still Isolate an Ignitable Liquid?
Authors: Hetzel SS , Moss RD
Published: March 2005

Dried, treated wood was sealed with Thompson's WaterSeal® “Clear Multi-Surface Waterproofer” and exposed to outdoor, summer conditions. Sections of the sealed wood were then periodically tested and analyzed in accordance with ASTM methods. The WaterSeal® contained a medium petroleum distillate (MPD) as a solvent for a wax. The treated lumber contained a background of aldehydes that could mimic a dearomatized MPD if not carefully investigated by the analyst. The MPD of the WaterSeal® was detectable 14 days, but not 27 days after application with exposure to relatively hot, dry and sunny weather conditions. The test was repeated with the MPD detectable 16 days, but not 20 days after application with exposure to cooler and wetter weather conditions. The testing demonstrates the need for a thorough and complete investigation by the fire investigator and the submission of comparison samples to the laboratory.
Prediction of Race Using Characteristics of Dental Morphology
Authors: Heather JHE
Published: March 2005

Historically, forensic anthropology has concentrated on race determination using skeletal morphological variation. Conversely, dental anthropology has been concerned with worldwide patterns of dental morphological variation. This paper represents a synthesis of the goals of forensic anthropology with the methods of dental anthropology. Dentitions of modern African Americans (n = 110) and European Americans (n = 155) were observed using methods based on the Arizona State University dental morphology standards. Of 136 characters observed, eight were found with frequencies that were very different between the groups. Based on these eight characteristics, probability tables were created for determining an individual's social race, using both Bayesian prediction and logistic regression. These tables are applicable for determining the probability that an unknown individual can be categorized as African American or European American. This method was tested on 40 individuals known to belong in one of these two ancestral groups. Correct assignment of race was made in 90% of cases.
Data on Eight STR Loci in Shan, Akha, Lisu, Lahu, and Hmong Populations of Northern Thailand
Authors: Lueangrangsiagun T , Bhoopat T , Steger HF
Published: March 2005

Ethnic minorities of Northern Thailand i.e., Shan, Akha, Lisu, Lahu and Hmong.
VIRTOPSY—Scientific Documentation, Reconstruction and Animation in Forensic: Individual and Real 3D Data Based Geo-Metric Approach Including Optical Body/Object Surface and Radiological CT/MRI Scanning
Authors: Thali MJ , Braun M , Buck U , Aghayev E , Jackowski C , Vock P , Sonnenschein M , Dirnhofer R
Published: March 2005

Until today, most of the documentation of forensic relevant medical findings is limited to traditional 2D photography, 2D conventional radiographs, sketches and verbal description. There are still some limitations of the classic documentation in forensic science especially if a 3D documentation is necessary. The goal of this paper is to demonstrate new 3D real data based geo-metric technology approaches. This paper present approaches to a 3D geo-metric documentation of injuries on the body surface and internal injuries in the living and deceased cases. Using modern imaging methods such as photogrammetry, optical surface and radiological CT/MRI scanning in combination it could be demonstrated that a real, full 3D data based individual documentation of the body surface and internal structures is possible in a non-invasive and non-destructive manner. Using the data merging/fusing and animation possibilities, it is possible to answer reconstructive questions of the dynamic development of patterned injuries (morphologic imprints) and to evaluate the possibility, that they are matchable or linkable to suspected injury-causing instruments. For the first time, to our knowledge, the method of optical and radiological 3D scanning was used to document the forensic relevant injuries of human body in combination with vehicle damages. By this complementary documentation approach, individual forensic real data based analysis and animation were possible linking body injuries to vehicle deformations or damages. These data allow conclusions to be drawn for automobile accident research, optimization of vehicle safety (pedestrian and passenger) and for further development of crash dummies. Real 3D data based documentation opens a new horizon for scientific reconstruction and animation by bringing added value and a real quality improvement in forensic science.
Observations on Dental Structures when Placed in Contact with Acids: Experimental Studies to Aid Identification Processes
Authors: Mazza A , Merlati G , Savio C , Fassina G , Menghini P , Danesino P
Published: March 2005

In a “mafia” crime case, a magistrate asked us whether it is possible to destroy a cadaver by immersing it in acids, and would it be possible to identify any residues. The aim of this study was to observe the behavior of teeth exposed to four kinds of acid solutions. The teeth were placed in plastic containers with 25 mL of acid and observed. The experiences showed that teeth are completely dissolved after 14 h of immersion in 37% solution of hydrochloric acid, while at 90 h in 96% sulfuric acid, the destruction of the samples is still incomplete. In nitric acid the teeth undergo a complete dissolution in 12 h, and in 17 h in aqua regia (chloroazotic acid—hydrochloric/nitric acid 1:3). It was possible to recognize the characteristic morphological features of dental tissues and structures up until the advanced stages of degradation.
Mitochondrial DNA Typing Screens with Control Region and Coding Region SNPs
Authors: Kline MC , Vallone PM , Redman JW , Duewer DL , Calloway CD , Butler JM
Published: March 2005

Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) analysis has found an important niche in forensic DNA typing. It is used with highly degraded samples or low-copy number materials such as might be found from shed hair or bones exposed to severe environmental conditions. The primary advantage of mtDNA is that it is present in high copy number within cells and therefore more likely to be recovered from highly degraded specimens. A major disadvantage to traditional forensic mtDNA analysis is that it is time-consuming and labor-intensive to generate and review the 610 nucleotides of sequence information commonly targeted in hypervariable regions I and II (HVI and HVII) of the control region. In addition, common haplotypes exist in HVI/HVII mtDNA sequences that can reduce the ability to differentiate two unrelated samples. In this report we describe the utility of two newly available screening assays for rapid exclusion of non-matching samples. The LINEAR ARRAY mtDNA HVI/HVII Region-Sequencing Typing Kit (Roche Applied Science, Indianapolis, IN) was used to type 666 individuals from U.S. Caucasian, African American, and Hispanic groups. Processing of the LINEAR ARRAY probe panels “mito strips” was automated on a ProfiBlot workstation. Observable variation in 666 individuals is reported and frequencies of the mitotypes within and between populations are presented. Samples exhibiting the most common Caucasian mitotype were subdivided with a multiplexed amplification and detection assay using eleven single nucleotide polymorphisms in the mitochondrial genome. These types of screening assays should enable more rapid evaluation of forensic casework samples such that only samples not excluded would be subjected to further characterization through full HVI/HVII mtDNA sequence analysis.
Fatal Pulmonary Thromboembolism and Hereditary Thrombophilias
Authors: Ely SF , Gill JR
Published: March 2005

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PE) is found commonly in forensic pathology practice, as it typically causes sudden death. It is attributed to a wide variety of predominantly acquired etiologies. Although likely etiologically multifactorial, some common proximate causes include: surgery, pregnancy, injury, inactivity of any cause, cancer, obesity, or serum hyperviscosity. On occasion, no apparent predisposing condition is identified. In these instances, occult hereditary thrombophilias may play a causal role. Deaths referred to the Office of Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) of New York City between December, 2000 and September, 2003 and due to PE were retrospectively reviewed. Molecular analysis (FRET) was performed on selected cases for three common hereditary thrombophilias: mutations in factor V Leiden (FVL), prothrombin G20210A (PT), and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR).During the study period, 124 of 15,280 deaths were primarily attributable to PE. Of those, 34 were selected for molecular analysis. One or more mutations were detected in 35% of those, five of which were clearly causally related to death. Given the potential benefits to surviving family members, our data indicate that postmortem molecular testing for the common hereditary thrombophilias is warranted in at least selected cases.
The Applicability of Holography in Forensic Identification: A Fusion of the Traditional Optical Technique and Digital Technique
Authors: Biwasaka H , Saigusa K , Aoki Y
Published: March 2005

In this study, the applicability of holography in the 3-dimensional recording of forensic objects such as skulls and mandibulae, and the accuracy of the reconstructed 3-D images, were examined. The virtual holographic image, which records the 3-dimensional data of the original object, is visually observed on the other side of the holographic plate, and reproduces the 3-dimensional shape of the object well. Another type of holographic image, the real image, is focused on a frosted glass screen, and cross-sectional images of the object can be observed. When measuring the distances between anatomical reference points using an image-processing software, the average deviations in the holographic images as compared to the actual objects were less than 0.1 mm. Therefore, holography could be useful as a 3-dimensional recording method of forensic objects. Two superimposition systems using holographic images were examined. In the 2D-3D system, the transparent virtual holographic image of an object is directly superimposed onto the digitized photograph of the same object on the LCD monitor. On the other hand, in the video system, the holographic image captured by the CCD camera is superimposed onto the digitized photographic image using a personal computer. We found that the discrepancy between the outlines of the superimposed holographic and photographic dental images using the video system was smaller than that using the 2D-3D system. Holography seemed to perform comparably to the computer graphic system; however, a fusion with the digital technique would expand the utility of holography in superimposition.
The Richard Cory Phenomenon: Suicide and Wealth in Kansas City, Missouri
Authors: Young TW , Wooden SE , Dew PC , Hoff GL , Cai J
Published: March 2005

This case-control study investigates the relationship between suicide and wealth in Kansas City, Missouri. House and personal property appraisal data on all victims of suicide from 1998 and 2002 and victims from a control population of deaths reported to the Jackson County Medical Examiner during the same time interval were obtained from the Jackson County Government website. The controls were matched to suicide cases by race, gender, year of death, and age at death (±1 year). Data from the 426 members of each group of suicides and controls indicate that suicide victims were: 1) 77% more likely than controls to have lived in houses rather than in apartments or trailers, 2) more likely than controls to have lived in more expensive houses (mean values $70,143 versus $61,513 respectively, p = 0.04) and 3) more likely to have killed themselves because of factors other than financial strain (8.0% of suicides showed financial strain).
Genetic Data of Five STR Loci in a Population Sample of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Cainé LM , Pontes L , Abrantes D , Lima G , Finheiro F
Published: March 2005

185 unrelated, autochthonous healthy individuals from Santa Catarina, Brazil
Language and the Politics of Emotion
Authors: Beeman William O.
Published: March 2005

Language and the Politics of Emotion. Catherine A. Lutz and Lila Abu‐Lughod. eds. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1990. 217 pp. $44.50 (cloth)
Talking Culture: Ethnography and Conversational Analysis
Authors: Wills Dorothy D.
Published: March 2005

Talking Culture: Ethnography and Conversational Analysis. Michael Moerman. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press, 1988. 211 pp. $15.95 (paper).
Intersubjective and Intradialectal Variation in Gbeya Ideophones
Authors: Samarin William J.
Published: March 2005

Descriptive or expressive adverbs in the Gbeya language of the Central African Republic are subjected to a study for variation. Predictably, it is found that there is more variation between speakers from different villages of the same dialect than there is between speakers from the same village—with some surprising differences. One explanation is that Gbeya enjoy playing with ideophones.