bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Death Associated with Nitrite Ingestion: Report of a Case
Authors: Standefer JC , Jones AM , Street E , Inserra R
Published: July 2015

Sodium nitrite reacts with the ferrous iron of hemoglobin and oxidizes it to ferric (Fe3+) iron. This converts hemoglobin to methemoglobin, which does not react with oxygen, and thus the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood is reduced. Poisoning from accidental ingestion of sodium nitrite has been reported [1–5], and although it has been suggested that a dose of 2 mg/kg body weight will cause toxic symptons [1], recovery was reported when up to 30 mg/kg body weight (2 to 30 mg/kg body weight) was ingested and medical treatment was available within minutes. Death was reported following an accidental ingestion by a four-month-old infant of a “small amount” of 4% ethyl nitrite in liquid formula. The concentration of methemoglobin in blood from this infant was 80% of the total hemoglobin, while that of the surviving twin who had consumed less of the formula was 38% [2]. Generally, survivors have had methemoglobin levels of less than 60%, and prompt treatment with methylene blue has limited the morbidity. We present a case of suicidal sodium nitrite poisoning that caused death within 1 h and resulted in detectable concentrations of both nitrite and nitrate in certain tissues.
Pyrolysis Analysis of the Herbicide Paraquat on Cannabis by Coupled Gas Chromatography-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Beutler JA , Varano A , DerMarderosian A
Published: July 2015

The recent furor over paraquat contamination of Mexican marijuana imported into this country has involved some controversy over how much of the herbicide survives pyrolysis in marijuana cigarettes and how much danger the unknown amount of paraquat poses to the Cannabis smoker [1–5]. While much is known about the pulmonary toxicity of ingested paraquat [6–9], little is known about the toxicity of inhaled paraquat, and even less about the physiological activity of its pyrolysis products.
Possible Characterization of Samples of Cannabis sativa L. by Their Carbon Isotopic Distributions
Authors: Liu JH , Lin W-F , Fitzgerald MP , Saxena SC , Shieh YN
Published: July 2015

To achieve the ultimate goal in “individualizing” drug samples, qualitative and quantitative composition determinations are commonly used [1–5]. Based on quantitative analysis of major cannabinoids, pharmaceutical scientists [2,3] have concluded that Cannabis sativa L. can be chemically categorized into drug and fiber types. These investigators [2,3] further established that the phenotype of a plant is determined by the genetic origin of the seed, and the location of cultivation is irrelevant. On the other hand, according to geochemists, environmental factors seem to control isotope distribution in plants of the same species. Although the category of a plant is controlled by the adopted carbon fixation pathway [6–8], the carbon isotope ratio 13C/12C within a category reflects the environmental conditions such as humidity, temperature, photoperiod, and isotope composition of ambient carbon dioxide [7–14] in which the plant has grown. It is therefore interesting to analyze the isotopic distribution in Cannabis sativa L. of different origins grown under various conditions for possible characterization of seed origin and location of cultivation.
The Value of the Duquénois Test for Cannabis—A Survey
Authors: Bailey K
Published: July 2015

The analytical procedures employed in drug identification have come under increasing scrutiny in recent years. Since cannabis is one of the most commonly found illicit drugs, an extra focus has been brought on its identification. Thus, several publications [1–5] have outlined methods of attacking the testimony of analysts who have identified cannabis for forensic purposes.
Radiographic Interpretation of Contrast-Media-Enhanced Bite Marks
Authors: Rawson RD , Bell A , Kinard JG
Published: July 2015

Radiography has been a diagnostic and interpretive instrument of the scientific community for many years [1]. The forensic science applications are numerous and varied, with a primary focus on identification problems [2]. Forensic odontologists rely heavily on dental radiography to match or exclude antemortem and postmortem films for identification [3]. Medical examiners have often been aided in their identifications by radiographic discoveries of broken bones, implants, and other foreign objects [4]. Recent work has expanded the experimental use of radiography to include the examination of fingerprints on skin [2, pp. 123–135] and the accurate mapping of incisal contours for comparisons [5]. Current opinion discounts any radiographic application in interpreting the tissue change caused by bites [6, p. 81].
The Core Technique in the Determination of Age at Death in Skeletons
Authors: Thompson DD
Published: July 2015

Determining age at death beyond 50 years in skeletons has posed problems for physical anthropologists, forensic scientists, and archeologists. Morphological aging methods such as pubic symphyseal remodeling [1–5], cranial suture closure [1,2,6,7], and the degree of osteoarthritis [8] are often inaccurate or not appropriate in aging skeletons of persons older than 50 years. Histological methods of estimating age at death in skeletons [9–13], overcoming many of the subjective criteria associated with morphological aging methods, are receiving increasing attention for their ability to age skeletons accurately from birth to old age. Of the histological methods that use cortical bone samples, Kerley's method [10] has been shown to be the most accurate. Current histological methods, however, have shortcomings that limit their widespread application by physical anthropologists and forensic scientists. The principal shortcoming is the need for complete cross sections of diaphyseal bone. With Ubelaker's recent finding [14] that age-related histological changes in bone may be population-specific, the need for a nondestructive technique of bone sample acquisition becomes important. To confirm or reject the findings that populations may vary in their rates of osteon turnover, thereby affecting age estimations obtained by histological methods, it is necessary to acquire bone samples from large skeletal series of known age at death. Access to these skeletons as well as forensically derived skeletons depends on a technique that minimizes the physical damage to a skeleton.
Sudden Death Due to Spontaneous Rupture of the Spleen from Infectious Mononucleosis
Authors: Bell JS , Mason JM
Published: July 2015

An 18-year-old white male showing no external signs of trauma was discovered dead in his bathroom. A ten-day history of illness resulting in symptomatic treatment for viremia one day before death was elicited. Autopsy revealed splenic rupture, massive peritoneal hemorrhage, and atypical lymphocytes. Laboratory tests on postmortem samples confirmed the diagnosis of infectious mononucleosis.
Postmortem Biochemical Changes in Canine Vitreous Humor
Authors: Schoning P , Strafuss AC
Published: July 2015

Time and temperature effects on postmortem vitreous humor from 60 adult mongrel dogs were studied. After death the dogs were held at 4, 20, or 37° for intervals of 3, 6, 12, 24, or 48 h. Antemortem and postmortem vitreous was analyzed for sodium, chloride, potassium, urea nitrogen, glucose, and creatinine. Potassium levels rose with increases in temperature and time. Sodium, chloride, and urea nitrogen values were stable at 4° for 48 h; they were less stable at higher temperatures. Glucose dropped to less than half within 3 h at all temperatures. Creatinine values were inconsistent. In that postmortem glucose and sodium levels remained below antemortem levels, diagnosis of hyperglycemia and hypernatremia should be possible. Consequently, a diagnosis of hypoglycemia could not be supported; the diagnosis of hyponatremia could be made in the early postmortem period.
Postmortem Biochemical Changes in Canine Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Schoning P , Strafuss AC
Published: July 2015

Time and temperature effects on postmortem cerebrospinal fluid samples from 60 adult mongrel dogs were studied. After death the dogs were held at 4, 20, or 37°C for intervals of 3, 6, 12, 24, or 48 h. Antemortem and postmortem cerebrospinal fluid was evaluated for sodium, chloride, potassium, urea nitrogen, glucose, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, and carbon dioxide. Sodium and urea nitrogen values remained stable. Chloride levels decreased. Potassium and phosphorus levels increased with postmortem interval and may be of forensic science value. Low levels of postmortem calcium might indicate antemortem hypocalcemia; high levels of postmortem glucose may indicate antemortem hyperglycemia. Calcium and creatinine levels increased slightly but continually after death; carbon dioxide values dropped.
Postmortem Behavior of Serum Thyroxine, Triiodothyronine, and Parathormone
Authors: Rachut E , Rynbrandt DJ , Doutt TW
Published: July 2015

Comparison of thyroxine, triiodothyronine, and parathormone levels in antemortem and postmortem sera was done by radioimmunoassay. In all but one of twelve cases, thyroxine levels irregularly declined after death, but this was statistically significant in only five patients. Triiodothyronine was assayed in eleven patients; two levels fell, six rose, and two remained unchanged as late as 17.75 h after death. One patient had a decline in hormone level, followed by an elevation. Five of the eleven patients assayed for parathormone maintained stable levels for as long as 17.75 h after death. Five levels showed an elevation, and one, a decline followed by an elevation. The erratic behavior of triiodothyronine and parathormone after death may be due to conversion from thyroxine or from heterologous forms of parathormone, respectively. It was noted that hormone levels from the inferior vena cava tended to be higher than those from femoral veins, with diffusion of hormone from decomposing glands in the neck as a possible cause.
Determination of Phencyclidine by Radioimmunoassay
Authors: Heveran ZE , Anthony M , Ward C
Published: July 2015

A radioimmunoassay (RIA) was developed for measurement of phencyclidine (PCP) and its monohydroxy metabolites in urine. Anti-PCP serum was generated in rabbits and the labeled antigen was prepared by radio-iodination (125I) by the Hunter-Greenwood procedure. Adjustment of the antiserum and 125I-antigen concentrations resulted in a dynamic response from 0 to 200 ng/ml and as little as 2 ng/ml was detected. Reagents were stable for at least three months at 2 to 8° Most (95%) urine specimens from presumed nonusers contained less than 5 ng/ml and urine specimens from suspected abusers usually exceeded 100 ng/ml. Comparison of RIA with other methods for detection of PCP showed good agreement. Cross-reactivity with other commonly prescribed drugs was not encountered. The recovery of PCP was 93 to 109% over the 20 to 175 ng/ml concentration range and the reproducibility (average coefficient of variation) was ±13%. Development of the RIA for PCP has resulted in a rapid procedure that can be adapted to automated processing and is also suitable for small-scale testing.
The Preparation of Lipid-Free Extracts of Drugs from Blood for Gas Chromatographic Analysis
Authors: Tye R , Freitag J
Published: July 2015

A method is presented to separate co-extracted biological materials, in particular lipids, from drugs in chloroform extracts of blood. The chloroform is evaporated and the residue is dissolved in a small volume of petroleum ether and partitioned with eight times this volume of 5% aqueous hydrochloric acid. The acidic, basic, and neutral drugs are extracted into the aqueous phase, leaving unwanted materials in the petroleum ether. The recoveries of drugs representative of a variety of types are presented. Reduction of the levels of lipids by factors on the order of 1000-fold is reported.
The Simultaneous Identification of Seminal Acid Phosphatase and Phosphoglucomutase by Starch Gel Electrophoresis
Authors: Linde HG , Molnar KE
Published: July 2015

Although elevated acid phosphatase (AP) activity in vaginal fluid is a consistent indicator for semen, differentiation between vaginal AP and seminal AP provides a more meaningful result. Detection of seminal AP in mixtures of vaginal AP, feces, and blood is accomplished by starch gel electrophoresis, employing the substrate thymolphthalein monophosphate as a selective visualization agent. Genetic phosphoglucomutase isoenzymes are simultaneously separated by this method and allow differentiation in some semen/vaginal fluid mixtures.
Trends in the Field of Questioned Document Examination
Authors: Galbraith NG
Published: July 2015

In any professional field, observations of the current literature usually give an indication of the direction the field is taking. This approach has been formalized in the technique of content analysis. A content analysis of the literature in the field of document examination was made. The Journal of Forensic Sciences was chosen as the sample for this study since articles on document examination have been printed in every volume since the Journal was first published in 1956. The articles were studied and 30 categories were selected to represent the topics contained in the body of the literature. Topic selection was based on this writer's interpretation of the author's intent or emphasis in each article. An analysis of the results is included.
A Study to Determine the Limit of Detectability of Gasoline Vapor from Simulated Arson Residues
Authors: Loscalzo PJ , DeForest PR , Chao JM
Published: July 2015

An experimental study to determine the effect of collection delay and combustion time on successful detection of the aceelerant gasoline was made with samples of wood, carpet with padding, and soil. The maximum time allowed for collection and analysis of samples in which a positive result could be obtained was called the limit of detectability. This limit was found for each sample under study by using various combustion times to 20 min and collection delays to 162 h after the fire was extinguished. The limit of detectability decreased in a regular manner with an increase in combustion time and delay in collection. The relative values for the limit of detectability for different surfaces could prove to be a valid and valuable criterion in the selection and collection of the proper physical evidence at fire scene examinations.
A Semi-Micro Technique for the Extraction and Comparison of Dyes in Textile Fibers
Authors: Resua R
Published: July 2015

Solid dye samples and extracted dyes from semi-micro samples of textile fibers are separated by using thin-layer chromatography. The extraction process is nondestructive, leaving the fibers intact for further analysis or court presentation. Acid, basic, disperse, vat, direct, and reactive dyes are used in this study. No single solvent system was found that would successfully separate all of these usage classes of dyes, necessitating the introduction of a screening solvent system. The behavior of the dyes in the screening solvent system gives the criminalist an indication of the usage class of dye being examined. Subsequent separation of the dyes is then carried out in appropriate solvent systems. The procedure is a general one that has been used successfully on a variety of natural and synthetic fibers.
A Description and Analysis of the Operation and Validity of the Psychological Stress Evaluator
Authors: VanDercar DH , Greaner J , Hibler NS , Spielberger CD , Bloch S
Published: July 2015

A detailed description and analysis are presented of the psychological stress evaluator (PSE), an instrument purported to measure accurately and to portray graphically differential levels of stress in human speech. In addition, two studies are presented that attempt to validate this instrument against better known measures of stress or A-state anxiety. The PSE measures were compared with heart rate and State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) A-state scores obtained under conditions where the level of stress was experimentally manipulated through threat of shock or the presentation of taboo words. The first study revealed that PSE, STAI, and heart rate measures accurately reflect different levels of stress and are significantly correlated with one another. The second study failed to replicate the validity of the PSE. This failure to replicate is attributed to lower levels of induced stress and a reduction in baseline measures of stress.
Automotive Repaints: Just a New Look?
Authors: Percy RFE , Audette RJ
Published: July 2015

The variety and complexity of primers and paints now used to refinish automobiles assist the forensic chemist in making more specific comparisons of paint samples. Infrared spectroscopy was used to determine the chemical composition of 254 samples of refinishing topcoat products and to establish a data base for comparisons of spectra of unknown samples. Spectra representative of six major types of refinishing products are presented.
Genetic Markers in Semen. III: Alteration of Phosphoglucomutase Isozyme Patterns in Semen Contaminated with Saliva
Authors: Sensabaugh GF , Blake ET , Northey DH
Published: July 2015

Contamination of semen by saliva can result in the alteration of seminal phosphoglucomutase (PGM1) isozyme patterns. The alteration is characterized by the gradual loss of the a and b isozyme bands with the concomitant generation of anodal bands; eventually, all PGM activity is lost. The conversion of PGM isozyme patterns has been shown to be due to a dialyzable heat-labile factor in saliva and a nondialyzable heat-labile factor in semen. The implications of this conversion for PGM typing in sexual assault evidence are discussed.
Detectability of Selected Genetic Markers in Dried Blood on Aging
Authors: Denault GC , Takimoto HH , Kwan QY , Pallos A
Published: July 2015

The detectability of selected blood genetic markers aged up to six months deposited on six substrata, glass, wool, nylon, and three types of cotton (plain cotton, permanent press, and denim), was investigated. The resulting dried blood specimens were aged at ambient temperature at 20 and 66% relative humidities; a few samples were aged at —20°C Analyses were performed on the samples kept blind for the investigators at 1-, 2-, 4-, 13-, and 26-week aging periods. Red cell antigen systems selected for this study were ABO, MN, Rh, Kidd, Duffy, and Kell. The most stable antigens were A, B, and O of ABO; M, N, and s of MN; and D of the Rh system. These variants were identified in specimens aged for 26 weeks at both low and high relative humidities. The least stable antigens, Jk a of Kidd, Fy a of Duffy, and K of the Kell systems, were detectable for only one week at either humidity level. Of these antigens, only Fy a and K aged at 20% humidity were detected at the two-week test period. Other variants (S of MN and C, c, E, and e of Rh) were detected for various lengths of time ranging from 2 to 26 weeks. In particular, Rh factors C, c, and E were affected adversely by high moisture environments. The four enzyme systems selected were adenylate kinase (AK), adenosine deaminase (ADA), phosphoglucomutase (PGM), and erythrocyte acid phosphatase (EAP). AK and PGM isoenzymes were still identifiable at 26 weeks, and ADA and EAP at 13 weeks for the low and high humidity storage conditions. PGM isoenzymes appeared to be more stable at low humidity, and ADA and EAP at high humidity. No obvious differences in detectability resulting from phenotype or substrate were discerned, except possibly for permanent press and denim, which appeared to shorten the detectability time of PGM. Storage of the specimens at —20°C generally preserved the antigens and the enzymes better than storage at room temperature. The discrimination probability was calculated on the basis of the genetic markers still detectable at the end of each aging interval. No test error was assumed, and frequency of occurrence data for each genetic marker were taken from the literature.
The Identification of Hand-Printed Musical Scores
Authors: Calvert JR
Published: July 2015

Music is communicated in written form by a system of symbols called notation. As in handwriting, there are various degrees of expertise in executing hand-produced musical scores. The identification of an initial hand-produced musical score is usually less complicated than identifying the work of a notator. Principles and procedures for examining and comparing a musical score are the same as those employed in making a hand-printing identification. Specific aspects of notation are discussed and applied to the identification of a musical score.
Evidence of Handedness on Documented Skeletons
Authors: Schulter-Ellis FP
Published: July 2015

The collection of skeletal material at the University of Maryland School of Medicine now includes a small sample of scapulae and long bones of the upper extremities taken from cadavers of known handedness. This sample has been used to begin studies for determining the accuracy of methods currently used for diagnosing handedness. Measurements have been taken of the deflection angle that results from dorsal inclination of the glenoid fossa, humeral length and head diameter, bicondylar width, and radial and ulnar lengths. A radiohumeral index and the total combined length of the long bones for each extremity as well as side difference in total length were calculated. These data plus the presence or absence of an extensor facet on the dorsal margin of the glenoid fossa have been compared with the known hand preference. Thus far, the data indicate that the extensor facet, greater dorsal inclination of the glenoid fossa, greater total length of long bones, and greater bicondylar width correlate with the dominant side. Since the sample size is small, further work is needed before a valid statistical analysis can be made.
Low Resolution Electron Impact Mass Spectra of Some Quinuclidine and N-Methylpiperidine Glycolates
Authors: Vincze A , Gefen L , Fisher A , Bel P
Published: July 2015

Quinuclidine and N-methylpiperidine glycolates of the general formula PhC(OH)(R)COOR', where Ph is phenyl, R is phenyl or alkyl, and R' the cyclic amine moiety, are known antidepressant and hallucinogenic compounds. Mass spectra of these are scarcely described in the literature and are the subject of this communication. Low resolution electron impact spectra were studied at 70 and low electron volts. The main fragmentation patterns and rearrangements, supported by study of deuterated analogs, are described. Determination of M+ and two other characteristic ions gives a good knowledge of the compound at hand while recognition of a few more fragments is necessary for an exact knowledge of the specific structure. The spectra and availability of deuterated analogs may lead to development of specific, sensitive methods of analysis for these biologically active compounds.
Permeation of Fingerprints Through Laboratory Gloves
Authors: Willinski G
Published: July 2015

Repeated controlled tests have shown that impressions from laboratory gloves will print onto optical components in 20 to 40 min and, in some cases, sooner. Careful testing demonstrated that palmar sweat passed through the glove material; the problem was not that gloves conform to the friction ridges of the fingers and then transfer some contaminant. The problem can be alleviated to a great extent by wearing thin cotton gloves like those commonly used in the film industry.
A Review of Organized Crime—The Fifth Estate
Authors: Crown DA
Published: July 2015

Unless one is involved with the problem, one gains most of one's information and attitudes toward organized crime from newspaper headlines and instant TV analyses of the problem. It comes as a bit of a surprise to some of us that organized crime is not the prerogative of a monolithic fraternity for individuals of Sicilian descent. According to the author, organized crime is, in reality, “a loose confederation of ethnic and regional crime groups, bound by economic and political necessity.”
A Review of Essentials of Neuropathology
Authors: Harvey FH
Published: July 2015

Essentials of Neuropathology, as the authors indicate in the introduction, “is intended primarily for the student who wants more information than is available in the usual pathology or neurology textbook.” This is evident as this softcover textbook is 191 pages long. Generally the book fulfills this purpose and often the other stated purpose of clarifying the more important or confusing topics. Its major shortcoming is the chapter on trauma.
A Review of H.I.T.: A Manual for the Classification, Filing and Retrieval of Palmprints
Authors: Chastain JD , Hoffmeister H , Stephens C
Published: July 2015

The H.I.T. manual for filing, classifying, and retrieving palmprints appears to have been researched fairly well. The author breaks the palm into three separate areas, the hypothenar, interdigital, and thenar areas. From these areas a three-part classification formula is arrived at. This formula is used for filing and retrieving the palmprints much as a classification formula is used with fingerprints. The hypothenar is the area below the upper palm crease (distal transverse crease) and to the little-finger side of the center palm crease (radial longitudinal crease). The interdigital area is the part of the palm bounded on the top by the lowest finger joint creases (metacarpophalangeal creases) and on the bottom by the distal transverse crease. The thenar area is that part of the palm located to the thumb side of the radial longitudinal crease, bounded on the bottom by the wrist crease (carpal crease). From these three areas the author uses a standard fingerprint-sized card on which are located an area for personal descriptors, an area to code in the type of pattern that appears in each of the palm areas (H. for hypothenar, I. for interdigital, and T. for the thenar area), and an area for references to each of the H.I.T. sections
Risk of Cancer Subsequent to Low-Dose Radiation
Authors: Warren S
Published: July 2015

Prominent among media items related to the Three Mile Island episode were prophecies of future cancers. The credibility of some of these estimates are discussed. The average person has been exposed by the age of 50 to 2.5 rad (0.025 Gy) from natural background. We define low doses as under 25 rad (0.25 Gy). The most heavily exposed members of the general population during the Three Mile Island event received 83 mrad (0.83 mGy). Those exposed to 2500 mrad (25 mGy) would show no pathologically recognizable effects of radiation though there is evidence that chromosomal damage may occur with doses about 1 rad (0.01 Gy). An official stated among the consequences of the Three Mile Island accident that two additional cancer deaths would result. No epidemiologist could detect such an increase in the population at risk. It has been generally agreed that the linear hypothesis is useful for determining protection standards, not prognosis. Objective criteria for pathologic diagnosis of cause-effect relations are presented.
Mineralization of the Costal Cartilages as an Indicator of Age: Preliminary Observations
Authors: McCormick WF
Published: July 2015

Soft X-ray examination of costal cartilages from 210 cadavers indicated a roughly linear increase in mineralization with advancing age. A cabinet X-ray machine and mammography film were used. Detectable mineralization was not found before the age of 15 and was rarely marked before the age of 50. Similar degrees of mineralization over a wide age span during middle years seriously limits the value of this method of age estimation while the ease, rapidity, and relative inexpensiveness of this procedure on intact or partially decomposed bodies recommends its use, especially where an expert physical (forensic) anthropologist is not readily available.
Suicide by Snake Venom Injection
Authors: Yadlowski JM , Tu AT , Garriott JC , Norton LE
Published: July 2015

A case of apparent suicide by injection of snake venom was investigated. Evidence found at the scene and presumably used for self-injection was positive for nonspecific venom but had the characteristics of a viper venom.
Analysis of Psilocybin and Psilocin in Mushroom Extracts by Reversed-Phase High Performance Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Thomson BM
Published: July 2015

A method has been developed for the analysis of psilocybin and psilocin in dry and preserved mushrooms using reversed-phase high performance liquid chromatography. A mobile phase of phosphate buffered methanol/water/cetrimonium bromide allows good separation of the two hallucinogens.
The Classification of Jacketed Sporting Rifle Bullets
Authors: Booker JL
Published: July 2015

A twelve-parameter classification system for jacketed sporting rifle bullets that allows the examiner to gather and record systematically data that can be used to identify the manufacturer, design, weight, and cartridge loading of damaged and intact bullets is presented. The twelve parameters are an identification number, manufacturer, weight, diameter, cartridge, base design, length of bearing surface, color, shape, location and description of crimping cannclure, location and description of other cannelures, and miscellaneous notes.
Onset of Psychotraumatic Reactions
Authors: Braverman M
Published: July 2015

This study was planned to examine the onset of the p0sttraumatic psychiatric reaction. Two hundred two injured persons were examined during two summers (1978 and 1979) at the Salzburg Accident Hospital, Austria. Eighty-six of 1 10 persons with posttraumatic psychiatric reactions developed their symptoms two weeks to two months after the injury. Ninety-two of the 110 showed irritability as the initial symptom.
The Search for Certainty and the Uses of Probability
Authors: Cole A
Published: July 2015

Some recent papers by document examiners have included discussions of findings stated in terms of probability and have raised questions about the propriety of giving such testimony in criminal trials. The present paper asserts the view that formation of a conclusion is progressive; that examination may be terminated in some cases with a statement of probability; and that the examiner must report whatever conclusion he or she has and must describe the evidence that brought about that conclusion. If, as the result of laboratory work, the document examiner is asked by competent authority to appear in court, he or she has an obligation to take the witness stand and respond to questions of attorneys and the court.
Thickness of Facial Tissues in American Blacks
Authors: Rhine JS , Campbell HR
Published: July 2015

The production of a three-dimensional plastic face on a human skull has been practiced sporadically since the latter part of the last century. In recent years, the technique has been revived and applied to forensic science cases. Contemporary facial reproductions are based on a small sample collected before the turn of the century. In this paper, we present data on a heretofore unstudied segment of Homo sapiens, the American black. Facial tissue thicknesses for this group vary greatly from those previously reported in European whites and in Japanese. Use of these data should make possible more accurate facial reproductions on the skulls of American blacks.
Photographic Superimposition in Dental Identification. Is a Picture Worth a Thousand Words?
Authors: Klonaris NS , Furue T
Published: July 2015

This paper reports a controversial case involving the dental identification of the skeletal remains of an Air Force pilot whose F-105D aircraft crashed in North Vietnam. Only a portion of the maxilla less the teeth was recovered and used in the dental comparison and positive identification. A statement was made to the brother of the victim that the dental comparison removed any doubt as to the identification. This was interpreted by the brother as the following: “Without the maxilla there was no positive ID.” The brother was not familiar with dental terminology and anatomy and was disoriented when trying to interpret the odontologieal narrative. The principles of photographic superimposition were used for general information and orientation to clarify the odontological narrative after the internment of the skeletal remains.
Population Frequencies of Carbonic Anhydrase II and Esterase D in the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area
Authors: Smith FP , Mortimer CE , Shaler RC , Berk LB
Published: July 2015

Population frequencies of the genetic markers esterase D and carbonic anhydrase were determined in blacks and whites using starch gel electrophoresis. Previously published data are compared.
Acute Dimethylnitrosamine Poisoning Outbreak
Authors: Cooper SW , Kimbrough RD
Published: July 2015

In an 8-h period, five members of two kindred families suddenly became ill with nausea, vomiting, and malaise. This was followed by acute liver disease, a generalized bleeding tendency, and a low platelet count. Two of the patients died four and five days after onset of illness. It was established that dimethylnitrosamine had been intentionally added to lemonade and milk that were consumed by the victims.
Quality of Life—Theme
Authors: Schroeder O
Published: July 2015

Forensic scientists, as an integral part of the justice system, must move from merely relating their practices to the system to relating their practices to life—the quality life. Life's meaning has greatly changed since 1970 both at the birthing and the dying periods. Life's quality has no single definition. It can include goals to which we aspire or tasks that we must perform. Or, it can be concerned with an ordered preference of things we seek. It can also be determined by the “outcome” of our living or the “process” by which we live. Finally, quality, although it cannot be defined, can be felt. Should we not understand that the quality of life is to be recognized by the true worth of an individual and to be measured by the caring each of us has for our fellow beings as we practice our daily work in the justice system and live our daily lives in the whole human society?
Law and the Quality of Life
Authors: Marger E , Barr RL
Published: July 2015

The use of sophisticated methods of criminological investigation and fact determinations, coupled with advances in forensic sciences and in criminal law and with the extensiye procedural safeguards and mechanisms available to prosecutors and defense attorneys alike are, more often than not, taken for granted. Yet, it was not long ago that our legal system functioned on relatively rudimentary procedures, and the tools available to investigate crime and to determine factual matters were little more than very basic scientific principles crudely adapted to the needs of the criminologist. Criminology itself is both a relatively new concept and a distinct branch of forensic sciences. This paper will examine some of the more interesting historical developments in the fields of jurisprudence, criminology, and forensic sciences in order to gain an insight into the contemporary quality of our legal system.
Barriers to Quality Achievement in Crime Laboratory Operations
Authors: Bradford LW
Published: July 2015

Crime laboratory output consists of both quality and faulty work. The paper discusses three areas of crime laboratory functions which require upgrading: crime scene search, crime laboratory management, and proficiency. The impact on these areas of prioritization of work together with optimization of resource and the recognition of the educational problem are discussed. Keys to gaining further insight into these problems are given and referenced.
Juvenile Delinquency and the Quality of Life: The 17-Year Depression
Authors: Russell DH , Hardman GL
Published: July 2015

Some delinquents who were unreachable and failed to respond to juvenile interventions may at age 17 or 18 become depressed and then be accessible and motivated for treatment and rehabilitation. If their needs and potentials remain unrecognized, they may act out their depression with continued offenses, alcoholism, drug dependence, and social maladaptations. Untreated, such depressions are long-lasting and have far-reaching influences upon family.
Quality of Life for the Mentally Disabled
Authors: Dietz PE , Dvoskin JA
Published: July 2015

Case illustrations are given to suggest the complexity of the effects on the quality of life of developments in psychotropic medicines, deinstitutionalization, and patients' rights. Community services often do not provide the mentally disabled with the benefits predicted for such programs. Whether the net effect of the revolutionary extrusion of the mentally disabled from public hospitals will be beneficial remains for history to judge.
A Review of 1979 Year Book of Pathology and Clinical Pathology
Authors: Woodruff CM , Stahl CJ
Published: July 2015

During the past decade, it has been increasingly difficult for pathologists to keep abreast of major advances in the various fields of pathology. Doctors Carone and Conn, assisted by 15 associate editors, have continued to review the medical literature in an exemplary manner and to provide concise, well-written summaries of significant contributions to the literature of pathology. For the period June 1977 to May 1978, nearly 250 articles have been condensed from a comprehensive survey of both American and foreign medical literature. The contents of the 1979 Year Book are well organized, and there are subject and author indexes. The section of anatomic pathology is surveyed by organ system, while the section on clinical pathology includes the special fields of chemical pathology, microbiology, diagnostic immunology, blood banking, hematology, histocompatibility testing, and laboratory data processing. Selected articles are illustrated with diagrams, charts, tables, photomicrographs, or electron micrographs, which are not only useful but also of reasonably good quality. Forensic pathologists, however, should not depend upon this book for a review of the forensic science literature. There are only two synopses in the section on forensic pathology. Two previous features of the Year Book have been continued: the educational, editorial comments and the current literature quiz. The new section on histocoinpatibility testing reflects the recent scientific advancements in this field and its applications to transplantation, transfusion, and the clinical diagnosis of selected diseases. The expansion of the editorial staff to 15 associate editors reflects the difficulties we all have in coping with the increased number of articles on pathology published annually. For the future, the editors should consider a section on therapeutic drug monitoring, as well as a list of the journals that have been surveyed. The 1979 Year Book is a concise, understandable survey of the medical literature, which should be useful to resident pathologists and pathologists as well as to other scientists working in the fields of pathology and laboratory medicine.
A Review of Trace Elements in Human Hair
Authors: Stombaugh PM
Published: July 2015

It is very apparent the author spent considerable time researching prior to writing the book; however, I found very little work that he had apparently done himself. He relates what other scientists have done in the various fields and offers an opinion as to their results. I think the book may have some application to the medical or environmental field, but I do not believe it to be of value in crime investigations.
A Review of Essentials of Forensic Anthropology: Especially as Developed in the United States
Authors: İscan MY
Published: July 2015

Since 1971 forensic anthropology, a branch of biological anthropology, has become an established discipline within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences. Since its establishment the field has developed in two directions: the identification of group biology of remains in question and the identification of personal biology, the second type of identification being relatively new. Comparison of the present volume with previous publications on forensic anthropology, for example, The Human Skeleton in Forensic Medicine (1962) by Wilton M. Krogman (Springfield: Charles C Thomas), clearly indicates these developments.
A Review of Educating Handicapped Children
Authors: Johnson LS
Published: July 2015

This is a book about advocacy of the law, and it gives direct answers for all situations where implementation is blocked by the educational bureaucracy and professionals. In a concise, incisive approach Mr. Martin discusses first the challenge of change and the many laws that finally led up to Public Law 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. Schools were charged to include all handicapped school-age children in appropriate programs of public education. Schools were given two full years to get ready for the act's requirements, from the fall of 1975 to October 1977. The regulations require full compliance with a “free appropriate public education,” with the deadline of 1 Sept. 1978.
Determination of Direction of Fire from Graze Gunshot Wounds
Authors: Dixon DS
Published: July 2015

Careful examination of experimentally produced graze bullet wounds of skin demonstrates that specific wound characteristics may be useful in determining the direction in which the projectile traversed the skin surface. These principles are applied to actual cases with known circumstances.
The Significance of the Amount of Fluid Surrounding the Brain to the Recognition of Brain Swelling (or Atrophy) at Autopsy: A New and Routinely Applicable Method of Diagnosing Abnormal Brain Size
Authors: Harvey FH
Published: July 2015

A new method of measuring relative brain size (relative to the skull cavity) at autopsy is presented. It is convenient and accurate and may be applied almost routinely. It consists of measuring the volume of the brain and the fluids surrounding it. These two volumes together must equal the intracranial volume. An abbreviated method consists of relating the fluid volume to the brain weight. This abbreviated method should not be routinely relied on when the brain size deviates slightly from normal. A review of the pertinent literature shows that other existing methods of determining relative brain size are impractical. The significance of measuring peri-brain fluids at the time of brain removal has not been appreciated prior to this report.
A Comparison of Enzyme Immunoassay and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry in Forensic Toxicology
Authors: Fenton J , Schaffer M , Chen NW , Bermes EW
Published: July 2015

A series of 137 urine samples were analyzed for drugs of abuse by enzyme immunoassay (EMIT® and by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Agreement between these methods was excellent and ranged from 93.4% for benzodiazepines to 98.5% for propoxyphene. EMIT false negatives were traced to the presence of elevated endogenous lysozyme or other interfering materials. In the case of moderate amounts of lysozyme the use of a blank would lead to correct results. Disagreement in the identification of nine benzodiazepine samples was found to be due to a low recovery of benzodiazepine metabolites from urine. Recovery could be improved by incubation of the urine sample with the enzyme/3-glucuronidase.
Postmortem Biochemical Changes in Canine Blood
Authors: Schoning P , Strafuss AC
Published: July 2015

Antemortem and postmortem blood samples from 60 dogs were evaluated for sodium, chloride, potassium, urea nitrogen, glucose, creatinine, calcium, phosphorus, total protein, albumin, and carbon dioxide levels. Temperatures were 4, 20, and 37°C Postmortem intervals were 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 h. Blood urea nitrogen, calcium, and protein values remained stable after death, indicating diagnostic significance. Potassium, creatinine, and phosphorus levels increased with time and sodium, chloride, and total carbon dioxide levels decreased with time; therefore, determining these chemical values could be beneficial in estimating time of death. Glucose values were of limited value.
Persistence of Morphine in Blood in Association with Hepatic Necrosis and Renal Tubular Necrosis
Authors: Wiseley DV , Nakamura GR
Published: July 2015

A case is reported in which a 26-year-old male survived in a hospital for 38 h after an intravenous heroin injection. Postmortem analysis showed 0.2 mg/100 ml morphine in the blood and 0.05 mg/100 g morphine in the liver. The persistence of morphine in the blood was attributed to the inability of damaged liver cells to take up the morphine and of the hypoxic kidney to excrete the compound.
Transmitted Infrared Luminescence in Document Examination
Authors: Gross E , Sin-David L , Almog J
Published: July 2015

A modified infrared luminescence technique that enables the restoration of texts obliterated by certain substances is described. The new method, transmitted infrared luminescence, is based on illumination of the examined document from the rear rather than from the front as in common infrared luminescence. The success of the new technique in actual cases is demonstrated.
Determination of the Direction of Ball-Point Pen Motion from the Orientations of Burr Striations in Curved Pen Strokes
Authors: Snape KW
Published: July 2015

A relationship between the orientations of burr striations in curved ball-point pen strokes and the directions of motion of the pens which produced the strokes is described. The relationship enables directions of ball-point pen motion to be determined from an examination of such striations.
On the Examination of the Military Explosive, C-4
Authors: Peimer RE , Washington WD , Snow KB
Published: July 2015

A technique is described for the analysis of the plastic explosive, C-4. The method involves a chloroform extraction of the sample and an infrared examination of the extract. Problems that may be encountered in attempting to identify C-4 are discussed and solutions to these problems are proposed.
Small-Angle Light Scattering for Analysis of a Single Fiber
Authors: Bresee RR , Donelson DS
Published: July 2015

Small-angle light scattering (SALS) was shown to be a suitable analytical method for characterizing submicrogram-sized samples of single textile fibers. Fibers from a variety of different generic groups were examined by SALS and produced widely differing scattering patterns. These differences were of such magnitude as to allow discrimination between all fibers examined.
Transfer of Pencil Writing by Cellophane Tape
Authors: Carney BB
Published: July 2015

This study explores the susceptibility of pencil writings to being transferred when transparent cellophane tape is used as the conveying agent. Comparative examinations of transferred pencil signatures with genuine pencil signatures disclosed that a transferred signature could be mistakenly identified as an original writing. The identification of characteristics inherent to transferred writing is discussed. The study seeks to acquaint the questioned document examiner with pitfalls intrinsic to the examination of pencil writings covered by cellophane tape.
A Review of Crime Doctor
Authors: Reay DT
Published: July 2015

Crime Doctor is a biographical sketch of Dr. Charles Larson, whose leadership and intellectual stimulation have contributed much to pathology throughout the country and, in particular, to the Pacific Northwest. The book is a testament to Dr. Larson's investigative contributions to forensic pathology. The whodunit mystery reader should find this book enticing and, to full-time forensic pathologists, the book delineates an interesting and varied professional life that is in contrast to pathologists tied to the autopsy table of a busy medical examiner facility. Dr. Larson practiced and developed forensic pathology while still a private practitioner of pathology and has been able to develop a satisfying and interesting career in forensic pathology without formally practicing in the context of a coroner or medical examiner office. In my view, this is his unique accomplishment and amplifies his many talents also manifest in his many professional associations and leadership roles. Although each person in forensic pathology may have “war stories,” this book details Dr. Larson's experiences during World War II in Europe. The accounts of the examination of concentration camp victims make for interesting reading.