bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geometry Analysis and Effect of Turbulence Model on the Radial Rotor Turbo-Expander Design for Small Organic Rankine Cycle System
Authors: Arifin Maulana , Pasek Ari Darmawan , Eddy Zaidan
Published: August 2015

Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) is one of the most promising technology for small electric power generations. The geometry analysis and the effect of turbulence model on the radial turbo-expanders design for small ORC power generation systems were discussed in this paper. The rotor blades and performance were calculated using several working fluids such as R134a, R143a, R245fa, n-Pentane, and R123. Subsequently, a numerical study was carried out in the fluid flow area with R134a and R123 as the working fluids. Analyses were performed using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) ANSYS Multiphysics on two real gas models, with the k-epsilon and SST (shear stress transport) turbulence models. The result shows the distribution of Mach number, pressure, velocity and temperature along the rotor blade of the radial turbo-expanders and estimation of performance at various operating conditions. The operating conditions are as follow: 250,000 grid mesh flow area, real gas model SST at steady state condition, 0.4 kg/s of mass flow rate, 15,000 rpm rotor speed, 5 bar inlet pressure, and 373K inlet temperature. By using those conditions, CFD analysis shows that the turbo-expander able to produce 6.7 kW and 5.5 kW of power when using R134a and R123, respectively.
Economic Valuation of Hypothetical Paratransit Retrofitting
Authors: Huda Naili , Hassall Kim Peter , Kaleg Sunarto - , Hapid Abdul -
Published: August 2015

This paper describes a feasibility analysis of conventional and retrofitted paratransits, comparing economic performance of conventional paratransit with those using lead acid and lithium batteries. Research object is Dago-Kalapa paratransit in Bandung, West Java, travelling the distance of 11 km in town, under 8 peak hour operation. After calculating the estimated annual cost and benefit; net present value (NPV), payback period (PBP) and internal rate of return (IRR) then were quantified to provide feasibility description of those three paratransits. In addition, a sensitivity analysis regarding discount rate, gasoline price and battery price is given to offer broader sense of factors embraced. It is found that both gasoline and lead acid paratransit have big NPVs with only slight differences, while lithium paratransit has negative NPV. This phenomenon applies to their PBPs and IRRs as well. Only when gasoline costs reaches IDR 15,000 will electric paratransit prevails over conventional one. Thus, it can be inferred that at the moment, paratransit runs with gasoline is still the most cost effective compared to its counterparts. However, starting retrofitting from now is endorsed due to its environmental benefit.
Modeling, Identification, Estimation, and Simulation of Urban Traffic Flow in Jakarta and Bandung
Authors: Sutarto Herman Y. , Joelianto Endra
Published: August 2015

This paper presents an overview of urban traffic flow from the perspective of system theory and stochastic control. The topics of modeling, identification, estimation and simulation techniques are evaluated and validated using actual traffic flow data from the city of Jakarta and Bandung, Indonesia, and synthetic data generated from traffic micro-simulator VISSIM. The results on particle filter (PF) based state estimation and Expectation-Maximization (EM) based parameter estimation (identification) confirm the proposed model gives satisfactory results that capture the variation of urban traffic flow. The combination of the technique and the simulator platform assembles possibility to develop a real-time traffic light controller.
ITRS lithography roadmap: 2015 challenges
Authors: Neisser Mark , Wurm Stefan
Published: August 2015

In the past few years, novel methods of patterning have made considerable progress. In 2011, extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography was the front runner to succeed optical lithography. However, although EUV tools for pilot production capability have been installed, its high volume manufacturing (HVM) readiness continues to be gated by productivity and availability improvements taking longer than expected. In the same time frame, alternative and/or complementary technologies to EUV have made progress. Directed self-assembly (DSA) has demonstrated improved defectivity and progress in integration with design and pattern process flows. Nanoimprint improved performance considerably and is pilot production capable for memory products. Maskless lithography has made progress in tool development and could have an α tool ready in the late 2015 or early 2016. But they all have to compete with multiple patterning. Quadruple patterning is already demonstrated and can pattern lines and spaces down to close to 10-nm half pitch. The other techniques have to do something better than quadruple patterning does to be chosen for implementation. DSA and NIL promise a lower cost. EUV promises a simpler and shorter process and the creation of 2-D patterns more easily with much reduced complexity compared to multiple patterning. Maskless lithography promises to make chip personalization easy and to be particularly cost effective for low-volume chip designs. Decision dates for all of the technologies are this year or next year.
On Preservation of Positivity in Some Finite Element Methods for the Heat Equation
Authors: Chatzipantelidis Panagiotis , Horváth Zoltan , Thomée Vidar
Published: August 2015

We consider the initial boundary value problem for the homogeneous
heat equation, with homogeneous Dirichlet boundary
conditions. By the maximum principle the solution is
nonnegative for positive time if the initial data are nonnegative.
We complement in a number of ways earlier studies of the
possible extension of this fact to spatially semidiscrete and
fully discrete piecewise linear
finite element discretizations, based on the standard Galerkin method,
the lumped mass method, and the finite volume element method.
We also provide numerical examples that illustrate our findings.
Cesarean delivery among women with prolonged labor induction
Authors: Highley Louise L. , Previs Rebecca A. , Dotters-Katz Sarah K. , Brancazio Leo R. , Grotegut Chad A.
Published: August 2015

Objective:

The objective of this study was to determine characteristics associated with cesarean delivery among women with labor induction lasting over 24 h.

Study design:

Women with live singleton pregnancies without prior cesarean delivery undergoing a labor induction lasting >24 h between September 2006 and March 2009 at Duke University Hospital were identified. Collected variables were compared between subjects by mode of delivery. A multivariate logistic regression model for the outcome cesarean delivery was constructed separately for nulliparous and parous women.

Results:

There were 303 women who met inclusion criteria. The overall cesarean delivery rate was 57% (n=172) and remained constant with time (P=0.15, test-for-trend). Nulliparous women having a cesarean delivery were more likely to be obese [adjusted OR (aOR) 2.00; 95% CI 1.05, 3.80] and have a larger fetus [aOR 1.11 (aOR for every 100 g increase in birthweight), 95% CI 1.03, 1.20] compared to those having a vaginal delivery.

Conclusion:

Increasing BMI and birthweight were independent predictors of cesarean delivery among nulliparous women with prolonged labor induction. Despite this, after 24 h of labor induction, the overall mean cesarean delivery rate remained constant at 57%, and did not change with time. Among women having a vaginal delivery following a prolonged labor induction, we saw high rates of shoulder dystocia, operative vaginal delivery and severe perineal laceration.
Profile of adult acute cholinesterase inhibitors
substances poisoning – a 30 years analysis
Authors: Gazzi Eugen N. , Sorodoc Victorita , Jaba Irina M. , Lionte Catalina , Bologa Cristina , Lupusoru Catalina E. , Lupusoru Raoul , Sorodoc Laurentiu , Petris Ovidiu
Published: August 2015

Objectives: The objective of this study was to
assess the pattern and outcome of acute cholinesterase
inhibitors substances (CIS) poisoning cases, in a
cohort from a regional tertiary care hospital. Methods:
cases admitted in the Toxicology Clinic of “Sf. Spiridon”
Emergency Clinic Hospital Iasi, Romania between 1983
and 2013 were studied. Results: a total number of 606
patients were included. The reason for exposures was
intentional in 70% of cases and the commonest route of
poisoning was oral in 92.2%. The highest percent of cases
was females (56.4), the age group 20-29 (25.4%) and the
majority (66.7%) coming from rural areas, 28.2% being
agricultural workers. 36.6% of cases were severe clinical
forms. Overall mortality rates were 3.8%, more than half
of the death patients (65.2%) had concomitant alcohol
intake. It was a significant statistical association between
decrease level of serum cholinesterase on admittance and
severe forms (p 0.000) and between survival and deaths
groups (p 0.000). The pattern of poisoning described by
our retrospective study suggests that CIS poisoning are
mainly preventable. The main effective goals for prevention
are restriction in free accessibility to toxic pesticides,
together with sustained efforts in education concerning
the life-threatening danger of pesticide poisoning.
Differences of plasma IL-1 and TNF-α in healthy
Chinese Population
Authors: Yuan Jintao , Wang Lan , Lin Yijin , Chen Jianhong , Hu Jianghong
Published: August 2015

Ple iotropic proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin-
1 (IL-1) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), involved
in the regulations of various immune responses, inflammatory
processes and hematopoiesis. In the present study,
the expression levels of IL-1 and TNF-α were detected by
enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Following
the cytokine blockade as a successful clinical therapy for
autoimm une diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, the
patients are more susceptible to a variety of opportunistic
infections. IL-1 and TNF-α may be useful predictive biomarkers
of diseases and offer potential targets for therapeutic
intervention of inflammatory diseases. However,
our results showed that the plasma IL-1 level was significantly
higher in women compared to men (69.5 ± 19.8 pg/
ml in men and 80.1 ± 19.5 pg/ml in women, respectively);
the plasma levels of TNF-α were higher in men than
women (20.8 ± 4.9 pg/ml and 18.7 ± 7.1 pg/ml, respectively).
The significant gender difference of plasma interleukin-1
(IL-1) and TNF-α levels present in healthy adults in Jiangsu
Province, China (P=0.002 and P=0.015, respectively), and
may be as a hint for sex differences of susceptibility to
many diseases and elementary immune response.
TVT-Exact and midurethral sling (SLING-IUFT)
operative procedures: a randomized study
Authors: Aniuliene Rosita , Aniulis Povilas , Skaudickas Darijus
Published: August 2015

Objectives: The aim of the study is to compare
results, effectiveness and complications of TVT exact and
midurethral sling (SLING-IUFT) operations in the treatment
of female stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Methods: A single center nonblind, randomized study of
women with SUI who were randomized to TVT-Exact and
SLING-IUFT was performed by one surgeon from April
2009 to April 2011. SUI was diagnosed on coughing and
Valsalva test and urodynamics (cystometry and uroflowmetry)
were assessed before operation and 1 year after
surgery. This was a prospective randomized study. The
follow up period was 12 months. 76 patients were operated
using the TVT-Exact operation and 78 patients – using the
SLING-IUFT operation. There was no statistically significant
differences between groups for BMI, parity, menopausal
status and prolapsed stage (no patients had cystocele
greater than stage II).

Results: Mean operative time was significantly shorter in
the SLING-IUFT group (19 ± 5.6 min.) compared with the
TVT-Exact group (27 ± 7.1 min.). There were statistically
significant differences in the effectiveness of both procedures:
TVT-Exact – at 94.5% and SLING-IUFT – at 61.2%
after one year. Hospital stay was statistically significantly
shorter in the SLING-IUFT group (1. 2 ± 0.5 days) compared
with the TVT-Exact group (3.5 ± 1.5 days). Statistically significantly
fewer complications occurred in the SLINGIUFT
group.

Conclusion: the TVT-Exact and SLING-IUFT operations
are both effective for surgical treatment of female stress
urinary incontinence. The SLING-IUFT involved a shorter
operation time and lower complications rate., the TVTExact
procedure had statistically significantly more complications
than the SLING-IUFT operation, but a higher
effectiveness.
The Identification of Impurities in Illicit Methamphetamine Exhibits by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Kram TC , Kruegel AV
Published: August 2015

Methamphetamine, a drug frequently abused in the United States, is often manufactured illicitly. One method commonly employed for this purpose is the Leuckart reaction, which is initiated with methyl benzyl ketone (IV) and either methylamine (I) and formic acid (II) or N-methylformamide (III), producing N-formylmethamphetamine (IX) as an intermediate [1]. Hydrolysis of IX with a strong acid such as hydrochloric acid produces methamphetamine (VI). (See Table 1 for a list of abbreviations and Fig. 1 for corresponding structures.) As the synthesis proceeds, various impurities are accumulated: reactants, byproducts, and intermediates, as well as contaminants arising from within the reagents themselves. The identification of such impurities thus far encountered in this laboratory by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy will be the subject of this discussion.
Automatic Reduction of Multicolumn Chromatographic Data
Authors: Gross JM , Porter LJ
Published: August 2015

An approach is given using the Perkin-Elmer PEP-2 chromatographic Data System [1] to combine data from both columns in a gas chromatograph. The Interactive Programming Module (IPM) option [2] is required. Program language is Interactive Programming Language (IPL). The component of interest is not always separated adequately from interfering substances in a single column analysis. Thus, a sample is frequently analyzed under more than one set of chromatographic conditions. The component of interest must be identified on each column to give a positive result. When sample volume is large it is convenient to have on-line data processing, such as the PEP-2 dedicated system. A printout of computed results from each column is quantitatively superior to manual chromatogram evaluation techniques. Combining all results for a sample in one report is the approach applied by the authors to a dual column configuration described by Adams [3]. If a drug is identified on both columns, further confirming analyses are pursued.
The Spatial Distribution of Zinc and Cobalt in Single Human Head Hairs
Authors: Maes D , Pate BD
Published: August 2015

In a previous publication [1], which contained a full bibliography, data were presented on the concentration patterns of copper in individual human head hairs. Concentration fluctuations were observed between adjacent 2-mm long segments of the hair shaft, while for many subjects there was a general increase of concentration from the root to the distal end of the hair plus local regions of increased and decreased concentration.
The Absorption of Arsenic into Single Human Head Hairs
Authors: Maes D , Pate BD
Published: August 2015

The study of arsenic in human head hair has long been of considerable interest as a potential index of arsenic poisoning. Two accounts are found in the literature of the mechanism by which arsenic becomes desposited in hair. In one, ingested arsenic is incorporated into the growing hair shaft via the follicle [1]; the location at specific distances from the hair root of regions of increased concentrations of arsenic in hair taken from subjects after the ingestion of arsenic [2] (for example, from Napoleon Bonaparte at various times before his death [3,4]) were interpreted as indicative of the time before plucking at which arsenic ingestion had occurred, under assumptions as to the rate of growth of hair.
Age and Sex Determination of Subadult Skeletons
Authors: Sundick RI
Published: August 2015

Forensic anthropologists who work in the medicolegal area are frequently requested to examine the partial or complete remains of individuals, with the goal generally being the identification of the individual in regard to age, sex, race, and stature. These data may then be used in an attempt to learn the identity of the individual or individuals. The condition of the material available for analysis varies tremendously. Complete skeletons with or without soft tissue should present the fewest problems. Those bodies which are less complete, consisting of parts of a skeleton only, present more problems in identification and in many instances may not be identifiable at all, although there are instances on record of individuals being identified on the basis of a few teeth and fragments of a mandible or maxilla.
Sudden and Unexpected Deaths After the Acute Onset of Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: DiMaio VJM , Sturner WQ , Coe JI
Published: August 2015

Sudden unexpected death after the acute onset of diabetes mellitus is relatively rare. Diabetes usually presents with the classical symptoms of polydipsia, polyuria, polyphagia, and loss of weight, but in some instances diabetic coma may be the initial symptom. If the cause of the coma is not diagnosed before death or if the individual dies without medical attendance, these instances may be referred to the medical examiner. Herein are presented four such deaths; three occurred at home while the fourth occurred in a hospital. In none of these cases was the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus made prior to demise.
Intravenous Abuse of Propylhexedrine
Authors: DiMaio VJM , Garriott JC
Published: August 2015

The Benzedrex® nasal inhaler is an over-the-counter device used for the symptomatic treatment of nasal congestion resulting from head colds and hay fever. The active ingredient is propylhexedrine, a local vasoconstrictor. While only two deaths due to propylhexedrine are in the medical literature [1], abuse of the drug occurs with greater frequency than realized. Since 1974, the Dallas County Criminal Investigation Laboratory has detected propylhexedrine in syringes in twelve cases submitted by local police agencies. In a recent six-month period, the Office of the Medical Examiner for Dallas County has encountered three deaths resulting from intravenous injection of propylhexedrine as well as two deaths from other causes in which the deceased had been injecting this drug. Two of the individuals dying of propylhexedrine abuse showed vascular changes in the lungs, apparently caused by chronic intravenous injection of this drug.
Determination of the Age of Bloodstains Using Immunoelectrophoresis
Authors: Rajamannar K
Published: August 2015

The study of the behavior of serum proteins in dried bloodstains is a subject of considerable forensic interest. Kind et al [1] estimated the age of dried bloodstains by a spectrophotometric method. Kind and Watson [2] estimated the age of bloodstains by ammoniacal bloodstain extracts. This paper reports on the determination of the age of a given bloodstain by using the technique of immunoelectrophoresis.
Subjective Responses and Excretion Patterns of Dextroamphetamine After the Administration of Therapeutic Doses
Authors: Evans MA , Wimbish G , Griffis L , Martz R , Brown DJ , Rodda BE , Lemberger L , Forney RB
Published: August 2015

Amphetamine, a potent sympathomimetic amine, is widely misused [1–5]. It is also employed therapeutically in the treatment of certain childhood behavioral disorders. Urinary amphetamine concentrations of 2 mg/100 ml or greater which occur after the use of large intravenous doses are readily detected by routine toxicological examination. The estimation of the drug in body fluids following orally administered therapeutic doses Can also be important in forensic medicine [6–8].
Metabolite Sensitivity in the Methaqualone Radioimmunoassay
Authors: Keppler BR , Manders WW , Dominguez AM
Published: August 2015

The use of radioimmunoassay (RIA) as a method capable of detecting nanogram-per-millilitre (ng/ml) quantities of methaqualone in biological specimens has been described previously [1,2]. Several authors have shown, by using gas chromatography or mass spectrometry, or both, that the principal products of methaqualone metabolism, as they appear in the urine, are primarily the monohydroxy derivatives [3–5]. These derivatives have been found to be conjugated mainly with glucuronic acid. In this study the relative sensitivity of methaqualone and its metabolites to the RIA assay was investigated.
Changing Slant: Is It the Only Change?
Authors: Regent J
Published: August 2015

The examination of handwriting for identification purposes provides many interesting and thought-provoking problems. One of the most commonly encountered challenges arises when an individual consciously attempts to change, alter, or otherwise disguise the presence and appearance of normal, natural handwriting characteristics. Included among these mindful attempts are capital letter style changes, alteration of normal writing slant, and use of the awkward hand, to name just a few [1]. Throughout all such attempts, the fundamental axiom remains that the writing is not completely natural. However, while such attempts are a contrived, forced effort, in many cases they still contain those unique and individual characteristics upon which an identification or elimination can be based.
A Review of Keratins. Their Composition, Structure and Biosynthesis
Authors: Sensabaugh GF
Published: August 2015

The forensic analysis of hair and feather usually begins and ends on the stage of a microscope. Accordingly, the forensic scientist often knows little more about these materials than their gross and comparative morphology. In this book, hair and nail, feather and scale are viewed from a completely different perspective; they are described at the molecular level.
A Review of Poison Detection in Human Organs
Authors: McBay AJ
Published: August 2015

This is the third edition of an excellent textbook on analytical toxicology. Those of us who have used the first edition (1963), 150 pages, and the second edition (1969), 280 pages, will be pleased with this enlarged and revised edition. About half the book is devoted to general toxicological information including emergency hospital toxicology, drug abuse screening, and analysis of blood, urine, liver, gastric content, brain, and kidney. The last half of the book is devoted to monographs on the analysis of specific substances. There are over 500 references; most are very recent. Of particular value are the interpretations of results.
A Review of Medico-Legal Investigation of Gunshot Wounds
Authors: DiMaio VJM
Published: August 2015

There are a number of major defects in this book. They all stem from the author's lack of knowledge of the subject. He is obviously unfamiliar with weapons and ammunition. His handling of the wounding effects of firearms is superficial. There is no in-depth treatment of any important subject. What the author has done is to compile a number of well-known facts—and some errors—from many forensic sources. To this he has added generous padding, consisting of information only tenuously related to the subject of the book, and photographs of poor quality.
Forensic Toxicology of Some Deaths Associated with the Combined Use of Propoxyphene and Acetaminophen (Paracetamol)
Authors: Robinson AE , Sattar H , McDowall RD , Holder AT , Powell R
Published: August 2015

For many years the most commonly encountered mild analgesic in cases of poisoning in the United Kingdom and particularly in London was aspirin. Often aspirin was formulated with phenacetin and codeine and sometimes with caffeine. Chronic use of phenacetin was found to cause renal damage, but, though acetaminophen is a metabolite of phenacetin, there is no evidence that it does harm to the kidney. Acetaminophen is itself a mild analgesic that has gained favor as an alternative to both phenacetin and aspirin since it does not cause gastric ulceration and hemorrhage when taken orally.
Detection of Gunshot Residue Particles from the Hands of a Shooter
Authors: Matricardi VR , Kilty JW
Published: August 2015

The identification of gunshot residue (GSR) is a topic of great interest to the police officer and prosecutor and a problem for the criminalist. The police officer and prosecutor want a test that will demonstrate the existence of GSR on a subject's hands. The difficulty for the criminalist is in associating the quantitative amounts of the GSR-indicating elements (barium, antimony, and lead) exclusively with GSR. In this paper a technique is described that tries to identify as GSR the individual particles which are part of the components of the smoke emanating from the discharge of a firearm.
Application of Allergy Diagnosis in Forensic Serology
Authors: Werrett DJ , King LA
Published: August 2015

The general approach to the characterization of bloodstains by “antibody profiling” has been described earlier [1]. Antibodies are produced by an individual against foreign organic matter (antigens). As each antibody is designed to react with a specific antigen, a study of the types of antibody present in a person's blood may provide information about that individual's past health record. The use of the Radio-Allergo-Sorbent-Test (RAST®) to measure allergy-associated antibodies in dried blood has also been described earlier [2,3]. These IgE antibodies are detected by incubation of bloodstain extracts with purified allergen coupled to small paper disks. It has been shown that at least three different allergen disks could be incubated simultaneously in a bloodstain extract made from less than 50 μl of whole blood [3].
Phosphoglucomutase Typing of Vaginal Swabs
Authors: Eastwood ME
Published: August 2015

The phosphoglucomutase (PGM) isoenzymes present in blood are also known to occur in semen. Culliford [1] and Rees and Rothwell [2] found no discrepancy between the PGM pattern of blood and the corresponding semen samples. Rees and Rothwell warned of possible interferences from vaginal secretions when typing semen from a vaginal swab. Thus, if the female is heterozygous for PGM the enzyme type of the semen cannot be established.
Envelope Association Through Manufacturing Characteristics
Authors: Bertocchi MP
Published: August 2015

There are many times an examiner will begin an investigation without a clear-cut idea on how the specific problem at hand will be solved. This was the situation in a case recently submitted to the laboratory of the California Department of Justice.
A Survey of Handwriting Styles by Geographic Location
Authors: Moon HW
Published: August 2015

The duties of a document examiner are primarily those of determining whether a writing is or is not authentic. Occasionally the document examiner is asked questions that require a certain amount of crystal-ball gazing to answer. One such question is the determination of the geographic origins of a writer by his handwriting style.
A Review of Criminalistics: An Introduction to Forensic Science
Authors: Thornton JI
Published: August 2015

The really good textbooks on criminalistics may be counted on the fingers on any typical one-handed person; this text would have to be included in that group. The text attempts, and achieves, a presentation of the major areas of physical evidence as well as a brief history of forensic science and defines the scope of the criminalistics enterprise.
The Use of Buffered Celite Columns in Drug Extraction Techniques and Their Proposed Application in Forensic Toxicology
Authors: Hackett LP , Dusci LJ
Published: August 2015

Although forensic toxicology as a science has been with us for many years, problems are still encountered with quantitative drug extraction techniques from tissues. These techniques are important for, after death, tissue drug levels must be quantitated and interpretations made that may have important legal aspects.
Incidence of Drugs and Alcohol in Fatally Injured Motor Vehicle Drivers
Authors: Garriott JC , DiMaio VJM , Zumwalt RE , Petty CS
Published: August 2015

Previous studies have implicated drugs as a significant factor in intoxicated motor vehicle drivers [1,2]. Little has yet been published on the incidence and role of drugs in motor vehicle crash fatalities, however. A comprehensive study by the Midwest Research Institute on specimens from victims of motor vehicle crashes procured from a number of geographic locations has indicated an incidence of positive drug findings of 13.09% in the urine of fatally injured drivers [3]. In only about 4% were drugs detected in the blood of victims, however.
Estimation of Stature in Children from Radiographically Determined Metacarpal Length
Authors: Himes JH , Yarbrough C , Martorell R
Published: August 2015

Forensic scientists and anthropologists have for a long time been concerned with practicable and reliable methods for estimating stature from bone dimensions. There are several rather reliable equations and tables for the estimation of adult stature, mostly from long limb bone lengths [1]; notable in this regard are those of Telkka [2], Trotter and Gleser [3,4], and Dupertuis and Hadden [5].
The “Nuts and Bolts” of Testifying as a Forensic Scientist
Authors: Philipps KA
Published: August 2015

When the forensic scientist leaves the laboratory and enters the courtroom anticipating presentation of the results of his long and detailed scientific analysis to a judge and jury, he may be shocked in confronting a defense lawyer not only versed in the skills of the courtroom, but also possessing substantial expertise in the scientific field about which the expert witness is testifying. More and more lawyers are becoming knowledgeable in the varied fields of forensic science. Many have been prosecutors who have “switched sides” and take with them the knowledge that they have gained from professional association with forensic scientists. Others are attending seminars and symposiums or engaging in independent research with the assistance of a retained scientific expert. A review of any professional legal magazine will show a battery of experts in all fields of science for hire. Lawyers are also being encouraged by state and local bar associations to attend continuing education programs.
Studies in the Epidemiology of Murder—A Proposed Classification System
Authors: Wright RK , Davis JH
Published: August 2015

The Medical Examiner's Office of Dade County has investigated 3282 homicides during the years 1956 through 1975. Forty-one percent (1340) of the homicides occurred in the last five years, 25% of the time period. The overall homicide rate has risen from 11.2 per 100 000 population during 1956–1960 to 20.0 per 100 000 population during 1970–1975. The 1975 homicide rate was 20.9 per 100 000 population.
A Review of Scientific and Expert Evidence in Criminal Advocacy
Authors: Ballo JM
Published: August 2015

Scientific and Expert Evidence in Criminal Advocacy is an overview of those aspects of forensic science which may have a crucial impact on courtroom proceedings. It is directed primarily at members of the legal profession but may be read with profit by those in other areas of the forensic sciences who desire a brief acquaintance with a particular topic.
A Review of Autopsy
Authors: Thompson RL
Published: August 2015

This book discusses the performance of an autopsy with the range of techniques varying from those appropriate for a death resulting from carcinoma of the lung to those appropriate for examination of the intact arterial system from the heart to the brain. The most unique aspect of the book is the use of numerous photographs to illustrate the techniques described in the text. There are 178 black and white photographs with the vast majority of these being of excellent quality.
Analytical Problems with Putrefaction in a Fatal Case Involving Ergotamine and Pentazocine
Authors: de Zeeuw RA , van Mansvelt FJW , Greving JE
Published: August 2015

A drug addict was found dead under suspicious circumstances, but an investigation immediately afterwards did not reveal any drugs in the blood or any pathological indication to explain the cause of death. Six weeks after death a toxicological reinvestigation was requested because of new evidence. By that time, blood decomposition had already started and interfered heavily with normal extraction procedures. This necessitated the use of an acid hydrolysis procedure which revealed the presence of pentazocine and ergotamine, the latter in the form of specific degradation products. This case is of interest as it emphasizes the problems related to the binding of basic drugs to blood proteins or cells, thus rendering them unavailable for solvent extraction procedures. In addition, a search of the literature failed to reveal any other fatal case in which ergotamine was reported to be detectable in postmortem blood.
Haptoglobin Phenotyping of Bloodstains by Nongradient Polyacrylamide Electrophoresis
Authors: Felix RT , Boenisch T , Giese RW
Published: August 2015

Haptoglobin is a plasma glycoprotein with α2: electrophoretic mobility which plays a role in hemoglobin catabolism. It is of interest to the forensic scientist because it exhibits polymorphism. The three most common phenotypes are designated Hp 2-1 (the heterozygous state), Hp 2-2, and Hp 1-1.
Techniques for Extraction of Spermatozoa from Stained Clothing: A Critical Review
Authors: Hueske EE
Published: August 2015

The location of spermatozoa on the clothing of rape victims is of primary concern to the criminalist seeking evidence of sexual assault. The identification of acid phosphatase, spermine, and choline is of secondary importance relative to finding intact spermatozoa. A number of techniques for extraction of spermatozoa are available. In this study these techniques have been compared in an effort to determine their relative merits.
Splenectomy and Sudden Death
Authors: Jindrich EJ
Published: August 2015

Splenectomy has become a relatively common surgical procedure, most frequently performed subsequent to traumatic rupture, incidentally in the course of other surgical procedures, or in the staging or therapy of lymphomas. Occasionally it is a therapeutic modality in a hematologic disorder. Although initially considered to be associated with few serious sequelae, the recent medical literature contains numerous reports of fulminant death from bacteremia (usually Streptococcus pneumoniae) in splenectomized or hyposplenic patients. The following case reports exemplify some aspects of this clinical syndrome.
Corrosion of New, Fired, 0.22-Caliber, Long-Rifle Brass Cartridge Cases Buried in Soil
Authors: Shanahan R
Published: August 2015

An important exhibit at a double murder trial was a 0.22-caliber, long-rifle, rim-fire cartridge case, which was found on microscopic examination to have been fired in the 0.22 pump-action rifle belonging to the accused. It was found at the scene, more than 18 weeks after the murders, buried approximately 50 mm below the surface of a garden.
Interpretation of Vehicle Globe Failures: The Unlit Condition
Authors: Powell GLF
Published: August 2015

There is little published information on the procedures which should be adopted in examining globes from a vehicle to determine whether they were lit or unlit at the time of an accident. The few which are available (for example, Ref 1) rely heavily on the chemical and physical changes of the components of a globe. None discusses, in terms of microstructure, the reaction of the components to the stress imposed by the accident. The technique of using chemical changes involves, inter alia, noting oxidation of the tungsten filament and adhesion of glass particles to the filament. These changes are sought as evidence for globes being lit at the time of the accident. These results used in isolation can lead to errors. This paper discusses the microstructure of components in new vehicle globes, how the microstructure changes with use, and the difference in reaction of the microstructure to stress as a function of the globe being lit or unlit at the time of the accident. It is suggested that this information used in conjunction with chemical and physical changes leads to a more reliable conclusion, especially when the globe is unlit.
A Review of Self-Assessment of Current Knowledge in Forensic Pathology and Legal Medicine
Authors: Gantner GE
Published: August 2015

This book follows the time-honored and useful technique of challenging the reader with pertinent multiple-choice questions in a variety of formats and styles such as might be expected in Board certification or other objective examinations. They are grouped according to whether they fall into such forensic subjects as ballistics, neuropathology, anthropology, serology, toxicology and toxicopathology, jurisprudence, and general forensic pathology. This facilitates the self-assessment process after review of a single subject, if desired. The multiple alternatives offered to each question are thoughtfully chosen to instruct the student in reviewing erroneous as well as correct answers, especially if time is available to consult the reference material, The references properly emphasize the more recent texts and monographs that are still in print and available. A few of the classical references are perhaps unavailable to some readers, but these are few in number and involve reasonable questions that are also answered in the other resources which quote the original texts. The list of references would constitute the nucleus of an excellent professional library in forensic pathology and related fields.
Simultaneous Determination of Nicotine and Cotinine in Human Plasma by Nitrogen Detection Gas-Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Kogan MJ , Verebey K , Jaffee JH , Mulé SJ
Published: August 2015

Human plasma levels of nicotine and its principal metabolite, cotinine, were simultaneously quantitated by gas-liquid chromatography combined with nitrogen selective detection. Nicotine, cotinine, and the added internal standard ketamine are extracted from plasma at basic pH into methylene chloride, back-extracted into acid, and then re-extracted into methylene chloride. Analysis is carried out on a packed glass column of 3% SE-30 while column temperature is programmed from 150 to 200°C. Detector response is linear over the range of 2 to 50 ng/mL nicotine and 50 to 500 ng/mL cotinine. The method was validated on 150 plasma samples obtained from habitual smokers. Mean levels of 19.5 and 219 ng/mL were found for nicotine and cotinine, respectively. Both the mean and the range of the levels were in agreement with previously reported plasma levels for nicotine and cotinine.
Freeze Marking and Other Techniques for Identifying Horses
Authors: Farrell RK , Johnson TA , Buckley WG
Published: August 2015

Detection and prevention of certain criminal activities within the horse industry would be facilitated if a permanent, unalterable, visible means of identification is used on the animal at a very young age. Techniques formerly accepted by the industry do not meet the test of adequate identification today. Freeze marking with unalterable symbols meets the modern needs of the horse industry and is acceptable in the National Crime Information Center computer network. “Trichoglyphs” and blood type are unalterable natural characteristics that augment the program.
The Polaroid Identification System and Its Misuse
Authors: Kraemer JI
Published: August 2015

The Polaroid Corporation markets special cameras and ancillary equipment for producing business or government identification cards, drivers licenses, and the like. The paper discusses the system's design, components, final product, identifying features of different models, and the potential for misuse.
An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys. III: Qualifying and Using the Firearms Examiner as a Witness
Authors: Joling RJ , Stern WW
Published: August 2015

This article attempts to broaden the perspective of attorneys, but it should be of value to all forensic scientists. Although the subject matter is directed to attorneys, it nevertheless is applicable to the professional understanding of members of all professional disciplines. It covers methods of utilizing and qualifying witnesses, and the cited court decisions and rules of evidence should enable the reader to find a base from which to begin additional research.
Detection of Digoxin in Bloodstains
Authors: Smith FP
Published: August 2015

Picogram quantities of digoxin were detected in 100-μL samples of dried bloodstains by using radioimmunoassay. The extractability of digoxin by various surfactants and the problems encountered with aged stains were investigated.
A Review of Medicolegal Investigation of Death (Second Edition)
Authors: Froede RC
Published: August 2015

The second edition of Medicolegal Investigation of Death will continue to provide the forensic scientist, the attorney, and the law enforcement officer with a basic practical textbook for the application of pathology to crime investigation. The text retains its comprehensive nature without being too technical yet includes the obviously technical materials including up-to-date references. The original list of 14 authors has been expanded to 16 to include new developments in death investigation.
A Review of The Doctor and the Law
Authors: Smith JH
Published: August 2015

The author does not need to justify the writing of this eminently practical handbook. There is a definite need for such a publication in Canada in that to my knowledge no similar collection of information is available in any other book or monograph.
A Review of The Uses of Psychiatry in the Law
Authors: Finney JC
Published: August 2015

In the past ten years, a great number of books dealing in general and special ways with psychiatry and the law has appeared. This latest book is my favorite: the best of the lot. The author, Walter Bromberg, who was born in New York in December, 1900, is the elder statesman of forensic psychiatry. It is curious that the book was copyrighted by the author and that the publisher is not one of the major companies.
Characteristics and Wounding Effects of a Black Powder Handgun
Authors: Labowitz DI , Menzies RC , Scroggie RJ
Published: August 2015

Commercial exploitation of the recent increase in interest in American history has led to an increased availability of weapons designed to use black powder (gunpowder). In some states, controls on these weapons are poor or nonexistent. In this study a .44-caliber black powder revolver is described and compared with a .45 ACP modern revolver. The kinetic energies of their missiles were very similar. In addition to the usual wound appearances determined by range and direction of fire, it was noted that the soot associated with wounds from the black powder handgun was much greater than from the control and had a characteristic sulfurous smell. Much more true tattooing was present around the black powder wounds. The spherical shape of the missile and the presence of black powder in crypts in the missile base were both characteristic of a black powder revolver. Striations were well represented on the ball but were easily destroyed during recovery because the lead was so soft. Swabs from around the wounds and from the shooter's hand revealed a large deposit of barium but little antimony. Wounds inflicted by black powder handguns may be detected more or less reliably.
Rapid Determination of Antimony, Barium, and Lead in Gunshot Residue Via Automated Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry
Authors: Newton JT
Published: August 2015

A rapid yet reliable method to detect the presence of antimony, barium, and lead in gunshot residue is employed to deal with the ever-increasing use of firearms in criminal cases. Since a reduction in analysis time and operator attention is realized, a more systematic approach can be used to deal with the significance of these three elements and their relation to gunshot residue. Residues are collected with cotton swabs and 5% nitric acid and are leached overnight in nitric acid. Enhanced reproducibility is also achieved when an automatic injector system is used instead of traditional manual pipet dispenser.
A Report on the Detection and Identification of Explosives by Tagging
Authors: Peterson AA
Published: August 2015

The Explosives Tagging Program was begun to help law enforcement personnel prevent crimes committed with explosives and to improve apprehension of criminals after a bombing. The detection phase of this program involves long-lived vapors in microcapsules. These vapors are perfluorocarbons that may be detected by electron capture detectors, ion mobility spectrometers, mass spectrometers, and possibly animals. In the future, computer-assisted dual-energy tomography may detect explosives not tagged. For identification after detonation, tags must survive the heat and shock of the explosion and ensuing fire and the fire-fighters' water. A multilayered particle of melamine alkyd, each layer of which may be any one of ten colors, is suitable. Combinations of colors give a code that refers to the manufacturer's production lot, which enables the explosive to be traced to the last licensed holder.
Microcrystalline Identification of Drugs of Abuse: The “White Cross Suite”
Authors: Julian EA , Plein EM
Published: August 2015

The microcrystallographic properties of the diliturate (5-nitrobarbituric acid) derivatives of the amine drugs found in the illicit street drug preparations known as “white crosses” have been determined. The crystallographic properties, such as the crystal morphology, the extinction angles, the sign of elongation, and front face refractive indices serve to identify the drugs found in the illicit preparations. These data can be used with ultraviolet and infrared spectroscopic and chromatographic evaluations as a major method for the identification of drugs of abuse.
Respirator Toxicology
Authors: Bednarczyk LR , Wetli CV , Balkon J
Published: August 2015

A case of delayed death resulting from drowning was investigated. A disparity in the propoxyphene concentrations determined in antemortem and postmortem specimens appeared to exist. The disparity is apparently a product of the fact that cardiopulmonary function had been maintained artificially for 57 h, with subsequent tissue autolysis that was demonstrated microscopically. Interpretation of laboratory findings on postmortem specimens must be done with caution when the interval between drug exposure and death has been interrupted by respirator therapy.
Sudden Unexpected Death from Primary Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Brown DL , Wetli CV , Davis JH
Published: August 2015

Five cases of sudden unexpected death from primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) are reviewed. Right ventricular myocardial hypertrophy and a dilated pulmonary conus may be the only findings at the initial gross examination. Characteristic microscopic changes in the lungs are primarily those of plexiform vascular lesions. The pathophysiology and morphologic alterations of PPH are discussed, and the association of this entity with collagen vascular diseases and mixed connective tissue disease is emphasized. It is concluded that PPH is an unusual cause of sudden unexpected death and its diagnosis may be difficult because prior signs or symptoms may be absent. The increased familial incidence of PPH underscores the necessity of considering this entity in cases of sudden unexpected death of obscure cause.
Chemical Reagents for the Development of Latent Fingerprints. IV: The Charring Process
Authors: Almog J , Marmur A
Published: August 2015

Latent fingerprints on paper were developed by baking them under controlled conditions. The quality of the charred images was found to depend strongly on the age of the latent prints. Results are discussed in terms of “donor quality” and rate of migration.