bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practical GC/MS Analysis of Oxidation Dye Components in Hair Fiber as a Forensic Investigative Procedure
Authors: Tanada N , Kashimura S , Kageura M , Hara K
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to improve the reliability of discrimination (or identification) of dyed hair by analyzing chemical substances present in the hair, as an addition to the conventional macroscopical and microscopical examinations and ABO blood group examination. Oxidation hair-dye components such as p-phenylenediamine (PPDA), toluylene-2,5-diamine (T-2,5-DA), o-aminophenol (OAP), m-aminophenol (MAP), p-aminophenol (PAP) and p-amino-o-cresol (PAOC) were selected as the object of study. After alkaline-digestion, hair samples were adjusted to a pH of 12.6 to 12.8, and applied onto an Extrelut column. After 15 min, the components were simultaneously extracted and derivatized with n-hexane including 1% heptafluoro-n-butyryl (HFB) chloride. Their HFB derivatives within a condensed sample were diluted in ethyl acetate, and analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with full mass scanning or selected ion monitoring. For estimating their levels, 2,4,6-trimethylaniline was used as the internal standard. Standard curves obtained by preparing a 5 cm segment of control hair spiked with authentic substances were linear, ranging from 0.1 to 4.0 µg for PPDA and T-2,5-DA, and from 0.01 to 0.4 µg for OAP, MAP, PAP and PAOC. The coefficient of variation of inter-day precisions (each n = 4) was below 16% for PPDA, below 20% for OAP and PAP and below 24% for T-2,5-DA, MAP and PAOC. These components were detectable even at 6 ng for PPDA, T-2,5-DA, MAP and PAP, 8 ng for OAP, and 4 ng for PAOC. Recovery percents using this procedure ranged from 54 to 86%. By using actual dyed hair samples this method was shown to provide high sensitivity for accurate detection.
Heat Transfer Testing of Thermal-Magnetic Circuit Breakers
Authors: DeWitt WE , Adams RW
Published: August 2015

The forensic engineering investigation of a fire will include the post-fire examination of electrical panelboards and circuit breakers if such equipment is available on the premises and survives the fire. Post-fire circuit breakers may be found in the on, off, tripped, or unknown position. It is sometimes assumed by investigators that a tripped circuit breaker is the result of an overcurrent condition either before or during the fire. Sometimes the tripped (or untripped) circuit breaker is used to prove or disprove theories about the cause of the fire. Since thermal-magnetic circuit breakers employ thermal sensors, it should be possible for the heat from a fire to be transferred by convection, conduction, and radiation into a circuit breaker and cause it to trip in the absence of an overcurrent condition. It should also be possible for the heat from a fire to shift the circuit breaker time-current characteristic curve and cause the circuit breaker to trip at reduced currents. The question then becomes, at what ambient temperature will the circuit breaker be expected to trip? Also, can the heat from a nearby fire be conducted by the metallic circuit conductors into a circuit breaker and cause, or assist it to trip? If so, what fire conditions are required to cause the circuit breaker to trip? This paper reviews the operating principle of thermal-magnetic circuit breakers, describes a series of heat transfer tests conducted on nine circuit breakers of various ratings and from various manufacturers, presents the results of the tests in graphical form, and discusses the potential impact of conduction and convection heat transfer on circuit breaker performance during fires.
Suicides May Be Overreported and Accidents Underreported Among Fatalities Due to Dextropropoxyphene
Authors: Jonasson B , Jonasson U , Saldeen T
Published: August 2015

Among prescribed drugs in Sweden dextropropoxyphene (DXP) is the medical compound most frequently responsible for self-inflicted fatal poisonings. To analyze the process leading to the classification of the manner of death in cases of fatalities where DXP caused or contributed to death, a set of explicit and implicit operational criteria was applied retrospectively to fatal DXP poisonings among autopsy cases performed at one department of forensic medicine in Sweden during the six-year period from 1992 to 1997.

DXP fatality was found in 113 (2.6%) of the total 4306 autopsy cases. Suicide was recorded in 84 (74%) of these cases, and an undetermined manner of death in 24 (21%).

Explicit unambiguous expressions of the intent of the decedent were found in 29 (26%) of the 109 analyzed cases. (In four cases no analysis could be performed.) In 46 cases only implicit and no explicit criteria were found. The total number of implicit criteria in individual cases without explicit criteria never exceeded three and in 34 cases no criteria of any type were documented.

It is concluded that the classification of the manner of death at DXP fatalities was often based on very limited grounds when the operational criteria were used as a standard for comparison. Information from relatives, friends and others concerning the decedent was rarely accessible. The shortage of information probably led to deficiencies in the death statistics concerning DXP fatalities. Considerable underreporting of accidents and probable overreporting of suicides were found.

Failure to report DXP deaths as accidents may delay discovery of the high toxicity of this drug. This might be one of the reasons why the DXP fatality rate is still constantly high in Sweden, while both Denmark and Norway have managed to decrease their DXP death rates by vast restrictions, based on alarming reports of accidental DXP fatalities.

In order to guarantee valid death statistics concerning self-inflicted poisoning, the information base leading to classification of the manner of death has to be enlarged. This requires implementation of new routines, including interviews of relatives, acquaintances and significant others to get the information needed to assess the decedent's intention to die. Operational criteria may facilitate the difficult classification process by providing a structured standard, and the set of explicit and implicit criteria applied in this study is recommended.
Detection of Anabolic Steroids in Head Hair
Authors: Deng X-S , Kurosu A , Pounder DJ
Published: August 2015

We developed a gas chromatography/mass spectrometry method for detection and quantitation of anabolic steroids in head hair. Following alkaline digestion and solid-phase extraction, the MO-TMS derivatives gave a specific fragmentation pattern with EI ionization. For stanozolol, the TMS-HFBA derivative showed several diagnostic ions. For androstanolone, mestanolone (methylandrostanolone), and oxymetholone two chromatographic peaks for cis and trans isomers of derivatives were seen. Recoveries were 35 to 45% for androstanolone, oxymetholone, chlorotestoster-one-acetate, dehydromethyltestosterone, dehydrotestosterone, fluoxymesterone, mestanolone, methyltestosterone, and nandrolone; 52% for mesterolone, trenbolone; 65% for bolasterone; 24% for methenolone and 17% for stanozolol. Limits of detection were 0.002 to 0.05 ng/mg and of quantitation were 0.02 to 0.1 ng/mg. Seven white male steroid abusers provided head hair samples (10 to 63 mg) and urine. In the hair samples, methyltestosterone was detected in two (confirmed in urine); nandrolone in two (also confirmed in urine); dehydromethyltestosterone in four (but not found in urine); and clenbuterol in one (but not in urine). Oxymethalone was found in urine in one, but not in the hair. One abuser had high levels of testosterone: 0.15 ng/mg hair, and 1190 ng/mL urine. We conclude that head hair analysis has considerable potential for the detection and monitoring of steroid abuse.
Effects of Morphine in Decomposing Bodies on the Development of Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Authors: Bourel B , Hédouin V , Martin-Bouyer L , Bécart A , Tournel G , Deveaux M , Gosset D
Published: August 2015

This study concerns the effects of morphine in tissues on the rate of development of Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) using those tissues as a food source. Lucilia sericata is a species of fly commonly found on human corpses in Europe during the early stages of decomposition and thus of forensic interest. Three rabbits were administered 12.5, 25.0 and 50.0 mg/h of morphine chlorhydrate via ear perfusion over a period of 3 h. These dosages and duration of perfusion were calculated to give tissue concentrations of morphine similar to those encountered in fatal human overdoses. A fourth rabbit was used as a control. Following administration of the drug, rabbits were sacrificed and 400 eggs of Lucilia sericata, all of the same age, were placed in the eyes, nostrils and mouth of each rabbit. Developing larvae were sampled daily to determine growth rate and weight. Puparia and emerging adult flies were also sampled. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Student's T-test. Results of this study show that an underestimation of the postmortem interval of 24 h is possible if the presence of morphine in tissues is not considered. This study demonstrates again the necessity of considering the possible effects of drugs in tissues on insect growth rates when estimating the postmortem interval using entomological techniques.
Methamphetamine-Related Deaths in San Francisco: Demographic, Pathologic, and Toxicologic Profiles
Authors: Karch SB , Stephens BG , Ho C-H
Published: August 2015

A study was undertaken to develop demographic, toxicologic, and pathological profiles of methamphetamine-related deaths. Anatomic and toxicologic findings in 413 deaths where methamphetamine was detected were compared with findings in a control group of 114 drug-free trauma victims. The number of cases per year did not change significantly over the course of the study. Mean age was 36.8 years, but 11% were over the age of 50. Decedents were overwhelmingly male (85.2%) and Caucasian (75%). Blood concentrations of methamphetamine and amphetamine were indistinguishable in cases where methamphetamine was related to the cause of death (MR) and cases where it was not (non-MR) (2.08 vs. 1.78 mg/L, p = 0.65, and 0.217 vs. 0.19 mg/L, p = 0.82). Coronary artery disease, ranging from minimal to severe multivessel, was identified in 79 of the 413 drug users, but in only six of the 114 drug-free controls (p = 0.0004), and MR decedents had enlarged hearts compared with controls. There were also ten cases of subarachnoid and intracranial hemorrhage in the MR group. Abnormalities of the liver (34%) and lungs (24.7%) were frequent. In 65% of these cases, death was due to accidental methamphetamine toxicity. In the remaining cases, methamphetamine was an incidental finding. We conclude that, in our jurisdiction, neither the rate of detection nor the number of methamphetamine deaths has increased significantly in the past 13 years. Decedents are almost all Caucasian males, and many were approaching middle-age. Methamphetamine use is strongly associated with coronary artery disease and with subarachnoid hemorrhage.
Zolpidem Distribution in Postmortem Cases
Authors: Levine B , Wu SC , Smialek JE
Published: August 2015

Zolpidem is the prototype of a class of sedative hypnotic drugs that are derivatives of imidazopyridine and is sold in the United States under the trade name Ambien®. Over a four-year period, zolpidem was identified in eight cases investigated by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, State of Maryland. Zolpidem was identified by gas chromatography-nitrogen-phosphorus detection (GC-NPD) following an alkaline extraction and was confirmed by full-scan electron impact gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. Zolpidem was quantitated by GC-NPD in all specimens received. Five of the cases presented were deaths due to drug intoxication. In three of these cases, zolpidem was an incidental finding because the drug fatalities resulted from other drugs. In the other two cases of drug intoxication, zolpidem was present in elevated concentrations and was a contributing, but not exclusive cause of the drug intoxication. The remaining three cases were deaths that were not caused by drugs. The blood zolpidem concentrations in these cases were therapeutic (0.28, 0.12 and 0.19 mg/L, respectively). In six of the eight cases where both blood and urine were analyzed, the blood concentration was higher than the urine concentration. The distribution of zolpidem into the liver and kidney failed to identify any sequestration of the drug into either specimen.
Determination of Lysergic Acid Diethylamide in Body Fluids by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography and Fluorescence Detection—A More Sensitive Method Suitable for Routine Use
Authors: Bergemann D , Geier A , von Meyer L
Published: August 2015

A new method for determination of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in body fluids by high-performance liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection was developed based on previously published methods. The new method is suitable for confirmation of samples tested positive by immunoassay, avoiding loss of LSD by absorption to surfaces. The reduced loss of LSD results in improved sensitivity. This is achieved by adding ethylene glycol to the samples, which cover glass surfaces. This principle can similarly be used to improve analysis of other drugs.

Body fluids for analysis included urine and whole blood. An internal standard was applied for quantification of LSD.

The new method offers satisfying precision data and has a detection limit of less than 0.05 ng/nL.
The Determination of Lysergide (LSD) in Urine by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography-Isotope Dilution Mass Spectrometry (IDMS)
Authors: White SA , Kidd AS , Webb KS
Published: August 2015

The use of isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) has been investigated for the forensic confirmation of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in urine by LC-MS. The advantages of using a deuterated analog of LSD as an internal standard over methysergide are discussed. This study includes a comparison of the electrospray mass spectra of LSD, LSD-d3 and methysergide, and discusses the choice of suitable ions for use in selected ion monitoring (SIM) mode. An IDMS method is presented for the LC-MS confirmation of LSD in urine, with a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 0.5 ng/mL, reflecting the forensic requirement at this laboratory. Under some circumstances the LOQ can be improved to 0.1 ng/mL. This method is linear in the range tested (up to 10 ng/mL LSD in urine) and has been validated in terms of accuracy and precision.
Use of Combined Frequencies for RFLP and PCR Based Loci in Determining Match Probability
Authors: Tomsey CS , Basten CJ , Budowle B , Giles BA , Ermlick S , Gotwald S
Published: August 2015

Statistical analysis was performed on a subset of the Pennsylvania State Police Caucasian, African American and Hispanic database for the purpose of determining Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and associations across the RFLP loci D1S7, D2S44, D4S139, D5S110, D10S28 and D17S79 and the PCR-based loci HLA-DQA1, LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8 and Gc. Overall, the statistical results are consistent with a population in equilibrium both within and between loci. The assumption for independence is valid.
Allele Frequency Distribution of the STR Loci HUMPTOX, HUMTH01 and HUMVWA in Asturias (North Spain)
Authors: Marco PN , Martínez-Jarreta B , Martínez EA , Sanchis AP , Fonseca RH
Published: August 2015

In order to use genetic loci in forensic identity testing, some population data are needed. This paper presents a report of allele frequency data for the loci HUMTH01, HUMTPOX and HUMVWA in a population sample from Northern Spain.

No deviation from the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was detected in any of the three markers investigated and there was no evidence of association between the alleles of these loci.

Statistical analysis was also carried out to obtain some parameters of medicolegal interest and comparative studies were carried out with other populations studied to date for these five loci. The Asturian sample does not differ substantially from other Caucasian and Spanish populations.
Maine Caucasian Population DNA Database Using Twelve Short Tandem Repeat Loci
Authors: Kupferschmid TD , Calicchio T , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

A population study of Caucasians residing in Maine was conducted using the AmpF1STR™ Profiler PCR Amplification Kit and the AmpF1STR™ Profiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit (Applied Biosystems Division (ABD) of Perkin Elmer, Foster City, CA). The kits contain the reagents necessary to amplify 12 different STR loci and the gender marker Amelogenin using two multiplex PCR, each containing nine STR loci. Thus, there is an overlap of six STR loci. The 12 STR loci are TH01, TPOX, CSF1PO, D3S1358, vWA, FGA, D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51, D5S818, D13S317, and D7S820. These loci represent 12 of the 13 core loci selected by the CODIS STR standardization project. Dye-labeled amplification products were separated and detected using the capillary electrophoresis instrument ABI Prism™ 310 Genetic Analyzer. Allele frequencies were determined for the 12 STR loci. Statistical analysis of the data included Hardy-Weinburg equilibrium (HWE) analysis, pairwise independence testing, power of discrimination (PD), and probability of exclusion (PE).
Simple and Rapid Color Screening Tests for Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol)
Authors: McKibben T
Published: August 2015

Three new color/screening tests for flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) are reported. The two-step tests are simple, sensitive, highly specific, and effective for both cut and uncut flunitrazepam and standard over-the-counter preparations of flunitrazepam (i.e., Rohypnol tablets.)
Computed Dental Radiography Used to Reproduce Antemortem Film Position
Authors: Hubar JS , Carr RF
Published: August 2015

Visual comparison of conventional antemortem and postmortem dental radiographs is often included in forensic identification. Ten forensic cases employing dry mandibular and maxillary bones and a dry study skull were exposed using the CDR digital dental X-ray system developed by Schick Technologies, Inc. Exposures of 0.08 s at 10 mA and 70 kVp were taken with an INTREX intraoral dental X-ray unit. Digital radiography has the ability to produce an image instantaneously, allowing an operator to retake an incorrectly aligned radiograph almost immediately. It gives the forensic scientist a simplified method for reproducing antemortem radiographic position more efficiently and often with greater accuracy than conventional radiography.
The Use of Cadaver Dogs in Locating Scattered, Scavenged Human Remains: Preliminary Field Test Results
Authors: Komar D
Published: August 2015

Specially trained air scent detection canines (Canis familiaris) are commonly used by law enforcement to detect narcotics, explosives or contraband, and by fire investigators to detect the presence of accelerants. Dogs are also used by police, military, and civilian groups to locate lost or missing persons, as well as victims of natural or mass disasters. A further subspecialty is “cadaver” searching, or the use of canines to locate buried or concealed human remains. Recent forensic investigations in central Alberta demonstrated that the use of cadaver dogs could be expanded to include locating partial, scattered human remains dispersed by repeated animal scavenging. Eight dog-and-handler teams participated in a two-month training program using human and animal remains in various stages of decay as scent sources. Ten blind field tests were then conducted which simulated actual search conditions. Recovery rates ranged between 57% and 100%, indicating that properly trained cadaver dogs can make significant contributions in the location and recovery of scattered human remains.
Preparation of Carboxyhemoglobin Standards and Calculation of Spectrophotometric Quantitation Constants
Authors: Canfield DV , Smith M , Ritter RM , Chaturvedi AK
Published: August 2015

A method was developed for the preparation of carboxyhemoglobin (COHB) standards, which were stable for more than four months with the prepared control remaining within acceptable limits during this time. A mathematical equation was developed to more accurately determine the constants A and B used in the equation COHB% = 100[(C − B)/(A − B)]; where B = 0% COHB peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm; A = 100% COHB peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm; and C = the peak ratio at 540 nm and 579 nm for the blood being analyzed. The following equations were developed to calculate A and B: B = Pavg − (P)[(Pavg − Navg)/(P − N)]; A = B + (Pavg − Navg)/(P − N), Pavg = average peak ratio 540/579 for the positive standard run on the spectrophotometer; P = average decimal concentration measured on the CO-OXIMETER for the positive standard; Navg = average peak ratio 540/579 for the negative standard; N = average decimal concentration measured on the CO-OXIMETER for the negative standard. The new equations provided results consistent with those obtained from a CO-OXIMETER.
Fine Resolution of Pollen Patterns in Limited Space: Differentiating a Crime Scene and Alibi Scene Seven Meters Apart
Authors: Horrocks M , Walsh KAJ
Published: August 2015

In an alleged rape case, the pollen content of soil samples from the suspect's clothing was compared with that of soil samples from the alleged crime scene (an alleyway) and from the alibi scene (next to a driveway) to determine whether or not the suspect had been at the alleged crime scene. Although only 7 m apart, the two scenes had significantly different soil pollen representations due to their different vegetation. Because of this close proximity, however, these differences in pollen representation were in the amounts of the same pollen types rather than in the numbers of different pollen types. The clothing samples showed a very strong correlation with each other and with the sample from the alleged crime scene in the amounts of pollen types present, very strongly supporting the contention that the suspect had been at the alleged crime scene.
Erotomania, Triangulation, and Homicide
Authors: Reid Meloy J
Published: August 2015

A case of homicide by a 29-year-old male with erotomanic delusional disorder and various personality disorders is reported. Following a month of pursuit of a female stranger with whom he had briefly conversed in a local bar, he assaulted an automotive plant where she worked, delusionally believing that she was at imminent risk and needed to be rescued. One plant manager was killed and two police officers were wounded. The case illustrates the phenomenon of triangulation, where rage toward the rejecting object is displaced onto a third party, which is then perceived as impeding access to the victim and may be at risk for violent assault.
Methods for Identification of 28 Burn Victims Following a 1996 Bus Accident in Spain
Authors: Martin-de las Heras S , Valenzuela A , Villanueva E , Marques T , Exposito N , Bohoyo JM
Published: August 2015

A car collided head-on with a bus containing 56 passengers plus the driver. A few seconds after the crash, the bus caught fire and 28 persons (15 male and 13 female) lost their lives. All the deceased were almost completely incinerated. To establish the identity of the victims, the judge in charge of the case designated a multidisciplinary Identification Commission. Postmortem procedures included a general external examination, routine photographs, dental examination, dental (intraoral and extraoral) and general radiographs (chest, ankle, etc.), and complementary biological methods for identification (e.g., DNA analysis). The antemortem information, including dental and medical records available, were transcribed onto the INTERPOL disaster victim identification forms. The detailed ante- and postmortem information were compared manually. In this disaster dental identity could be established in 57% of the victims, whereas dental evidence did not allow by itself the identification of 12 burned victims. Odontological examination and complementary radiographic procedures were found to be accurate, economic and rapid methods of identifying badly burned victims in this bus accident.
Sudden Death in Right Ventricular Dysplasia with Minimal Gross Abnormalities
Authors: Burke AP , Robinson S , Radentz S , Smialek J , Virmani R
Published: August 2015

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy is emerging as a relatively common cause of exercise-induced sudden death in the young. The diagnostic criteria at autopsy are, however, not fully established, leading to both over-and underdiagnosis. We report a young man and a young woman dying suddenly of right ventricular dysplasia during exercise, in whom the gross autopsy findings in the right ventricle were minimal or even absent. However, the histologic features in both right and left ventricles were typical of the disease, and consisted of fibrofatty infiltrates with typical myocyte degeneration of the right ventricle and subepicardial regions of the left ventricle. These cases illustrate that microscopic findings are diagnostic and may be present in the absence of gross findings. Marked fat replacement is not essential for the diagnosis of right ventricular dysplasia, and the right ventricle should be extensively sampled histologically in all cases of sudden unexpected death, especially those that are exercise related.
An Unusual Case of Railway Suicide
Authors: Palanco JLR , Lucas JJG , Rojas MAV , Martínez MIA
Published: August 2015

A rare case of suicide in which the victim had been lying along the railway track in a supine position and with extended extremities is described. The wheels of a train caused longitudinal hemisection with complete evisceration. Epidemiological data on train suicides are given and the relationship between this method of suicide and mental illnesses and consumption of alcohol are discussed.
Another Death Due to Ingestion of Nicotiana glauca
Authors: Sims DN , James R , Christensen T
Published: August 2015

Deaths attributed to ingestion of Nicotiana glauca are extremely rare. We report here a case where a 43-year-old man was found dead after apparently drinking a water extract of Nicotiana glauca. The primary alkaloid in the plant is anabasine. Toxicological analysis by capillary gas chromatography showed the deceased had a blood anabasine concentration of 2.2 mg/L. Clinically, the features of poisoning are nicotine-like and if death occurs it results from respiratory paralysis. The case further supports the view that, in the human, anabasine is considerably more toxic than nicotine.
Allele and Genotype Frequencies for the STR Locus D18S51 in a Western German Population
Authors: Baasner A , Madea B
Published: August 2015

Genetic marker typing based on DNA amplification by the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) increasingly is being employed in forensic casework and for paternity testing. Allele frequencies were determined using PCR for 102 unrelated Germans (Rhine area) for the locus D18S51. Twelve alleles were observed, with frequencies ranging from 0.005 (allele 11) to 0.191 (allele 14). The observed heterozygosity was 0.867, and the power of discrimination was 0.968. There was no deviation from expectations under Hardy-Weinberg assumptions (P = 0.451).
Commentary on Morgan M, Schramm J, Kofoed P, Steensberg J, and Theilade P. Automobile Exhaust as a Means of Suicide: An Experimental Study with a Proposed Model. J Forensic Sci July;43(4):827–836.
Authors: Contostavlos DL
Published: August 2015

Commentary on Morgan M, Schramm J, Kofoed P, Steensberg J, and Theilade P. Automobile Exhaust as a Means of Suicide: An Experimental Study with a Proposed Model. J Forensic Sci July;43(4):827–836.
Commentary on Giles A, Commentary on Gernandt MN, Urlaub JJ, An Introduction to the Gel Pen. J Forensic Sci 1996 May; 41(3):503–4. J Forensic Sci 1997; 42(4):759
Authors: Andermann T
Published: August 2015

Commentary on Giles A, Commentary on Gernandt MN, Urlaub JJ, An Introduction to the Gel Pen. J Forensic Sci 1996 May; 41(3):503–4. J Forensic Sci 1997; 42(4):759
Review of Bone Voyage: A Journey in Forensic Anthropology
Authors: Haglund WD
Published: August 2015

Bone Voyage: A Journey in Forensic Anthropology, is published on the heels of biographical and semi- autobiographical accounts of forensic anthropologists Clyde Collins Snow (I), Douglas Ubelaker (2) and, William Maples (3). It is singularly different from these volumes. With the exception of the 1980 New Mexico Prison Riot, Bon Voyage is not a tale of high profile cases, but the nuts and bolts, cases seen by the majority of forensic anthropologists. In Rhine'B words, cases that “… bristle with instructive examples to be plucked like so many feathers from a chicken.” The volume consists of 10 chapters and numerous photos and is also accompanied by drawings from Rhine's own forensic reports.
Review of Tainting Evidence Inside the Scandals at the FBI Crime Lab
Authors: Wright RK
Published: August 2015

Science and law approach problems and arrive at solutions in completely different ways. Law arrives at conclusions by taking established principles and applying them to new facts, a deductive process. Science arrives at conclusions by observing facts, creating hypotheses and testing them, an inductive process. Law relies upon precedence and procedure. Science is innovative and iconoclastic.
Review of Forensic DNA Profiling Protocols
Authors: Wenk RE
Published: August 2015

This hard covered volume is one of the series (#98) of Methods in Molecular Biology and is directed to forensic scientists who need to apply practical methods of DNA analysis for the purpose of identifying either the origin of evidence samples or individuals. Mainstream chemical, interpretive and statistical methods are included.
Review of Neurotraumatology: Biomechanic Aspects Cytologic and Molecular Mechanisms. Research in Legal Medicine, Vol. 17.
Authors: Schmidt V
Published: August 2015

In recent years research in the most diverse disciplines has led to major progress in the field of Neurotraumatology. The present volume offers a selection of the latest findings by scientists of several nations, with particular attention to their application to the problems of forensic neuropathology. Each contribution is based on a talk given in 1996 at the VlJth Liibeck Workshop. Both editors are active in the field of forensic medicine, one as a pathologist, the other as a physicist.
The Differentiation of Traumatic and Heat-Related Fractures in Burned Bone
Authors: Herrmann NP , Bennett JL
Published: August 2015

Interpretations of antemortem and perimortem trauma are complicated when dealing with cases involving extreme exposure to fire. This investigation attempts to discern the signatures of perimortem trauma from heat related trauma. Femora of domestic pig, sus scrofa, with minimal soft tissue and articulated patellae were subjected to varying traumatic forces. Skeletal elements were impacted with blunt and sharp forces, cut with varying instruments, subjected to torsional forces or shot.

Bones were burned in various situations in conjunction with Knox County Rural/Metro Fire Department training exercises conducted in Knox County, Tennessee. Following recovery, fragments were subjected to radiographic, macroscopic, and microscopic analyses. Skeletal elements were reconstructed to permit accurate comparison with pre-fire visual records. In addition, fracture surfaces were examined under both transmitted light and scanning electron microscopy in an attempt to discern surface signatures of the causal fracture (trauma, heat, or situational).

Results indicate that signatures of sharp force trauma remain evident following incineration. Furthermore, radiopaque spatter was not observed in any shot specimen. However, these initial findings suggest that the interpretation of blunt force and torsional trauma requires a rigorous examination and comparison of fracture patterns in conjunction with surface morphology.
Separation of Enantiomeric Ephedrine and Pseudoephedrine—High Pressure Liquid Chromatography and Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Iwanicki RM , Maier K , Zlotnick JA , Liu RH , Kuo T-L , Tagliaro F
Published: August 2015

Ephedrine and pseudoephedrine (ψ-ephedrine), frequently found in packaged drugs of abuse, are common over-the-counter pharmaceuticals. Present in high concentrations, these compounds have reportedly caused false identification of methamphetamine in urine specimens. Furthermore, (−)-ephedrine and (+)-ψ-ephedrine are used for manufacturing (+)-methamphetamine. Thus, knowledge on the enantiomeric compositions of these compounds may help identify their sources, providing valuable information to the investigation process. High pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) and capillary electrophoresis (CE) methods were evaluated and compared for their application in analyzing the enantiomeric compositions of these two compounds. A chiral column (Supelcosil LC-(S) Naphthyl Urea) was found effective in resolving the resulting four components when derivatized with both of the following two chiral derivatization reagents: N-trifluoroacetyl-l-prolyl chloride (l-TPC) and 2,3,4,6-tetra-O-acetyl-β-D-glucopyranosyl isothiocyanate (GITC). A C18 column, although less effective, can also adequately resolve these four components for identification purposes. With CE, inclusion of 30 mM hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin in 50 mM phosphate buffer (pH 2.5) was very effective in resolving all four components using an uncoated fused silica capillary without prior derivatization.
Preliminary Data on the Usefulness of Internal Transcribed Spacer I (ITS1) Sequence in Cannabis sativa L. Identification
Authors: Siniscalco Gigliano S
Published: August 2015

A method is described to identify an unknown sample of plant material of forensic interest as Cannabis sativa L. The method consists in comparing the sequence of the nuclear ribosomal DNA Internal Transcribed Spacer I (ITS1) of the unknown sample with a Cannabis sequence. Our preliminary results show that the ITS1 is an ideal molecule for the identification of a sample suspected to be marijuana.
Bayesian Validation of a Quadruplex STR Profiling System for Identification Purposes
Authors: Foreman LA , Smith AFM , Evett IW
Published: August 2015

A quadruplex system for determining the genetic profile of an individual at four short tandem repeat (STR) loci has recently been introduced into forensic casework by the Forensic Science Service (FSS), primarily for the purposes of forensic identification. Data have been collected under this system from the three racial groups of most relevance in casework in the UK: Caucasian. Afro-Caribbean and Asian (from the Indian subcontinent). These data are utilized in calculations to quantify the evidential strength of a DNA match between suspect and crime scene sample, say, through the evaluation of a likelihood ratio (LR). Previous papers (1,2) have studied the databases via classical statistical methods. However, we focus on a Bayesian approach (3) to validation of the data for LR evaluation in two main cases: when individuals being compared are either (i) completely unrelated, or (ii) members of the same racial group subpopulation. Empirical studies are conducted to establish the robustness of proposed models and obtain efficient and adequate approximations to the LR calculations. This involves the use of statistical simulation methods to determine the suitability of the product rule and Bayesian inference for coancestry coefficients in the absence of subpopulation data.
Time since Discharge of Spent Cartridges
Authors: Andrasko J , Ståhling S
Published: August 2015

A method for estimation of the time since discharge of spent cartridges is presented. This method is based on SPME (Solid Phase Microextraction) sampling from the atmosphere inside cartridges. Either naphthalene or an unidentified compound designated as the TEA2-compound were detected in most of the cartridges. These combustion products are the same as those measured in firearm barrels, but in cartridges the detected amounts are lower. The estimation of time since discharge is based on the rate of escape of the volatile combustion compounds from the cartridge as a function of time. Three categories of cartridges were studied separately—shotgun shells, cartridges from sporting rifles, and cartridges from pistols/revolvers. For shotgun shells the decay of the naphthalene peak is measured. At room temperature, naphthalene is detectable in shotgun cartridges for 2–3 weeks after the discharge. In cartridges from sporting rifles, only the TEA2-peak is detectable and observable for about 2 weeks after the discharge. The technique presented failed to detect any combustion product in pistol/revolver cartridges, with the exception of longer cartridges, such as Magnum and in small caliber cartridges (caliber .22) where the TEA2-peak was observed for several days after the discharge. Nitroglycerin (NG) was detectable in cartridges from some manufacturers, but the reproducibility of its detection was rather poor. Moreover the decay of NG was too slow at temperatures below room temperature. The repetitive SPME sampling did not disturb the system. Attempts to prevent the volatile compound from escaping from cartridges was unsuccessful. Some experiments were performed with cartridges stored outdoors, exposed to wind, rain, and snow.
The Forensic Significance of Glass Composition and Refractive Index Measurements
Authors: Koons RD , Buscaglia J
Published: August 2015

The frequency distributions of refractive index and the concentrations of ten elements in 204 glass specimens received as evidence in casework were evaluated. These data were used to estimate the probability of randomly selecting, from a general population, a glass specimen that is indistinguishable in all measured characteristics from a given glass specimen. The probability of two unrelated glass specimens having indistinguishable elemental compositions and refractive indices is calculated and lies between the extremes of 10−5 and 10−13. For each of the 20,706 pairwise comparisons of the 204 specimens in this study, the two specimens are analytically distinguishable. The use of highly discriminating analytical methods for the comparison of trace evidence and the corresponding low probability of two unrelated glass specimens being indistinguishable eliminates the need to collect extensive databases for the purpose of making exact probability calculations. The approach used here can be applied to other highly discriminating parameters and trace evidence sample types.
Minimal Standards for the Performance and Interpretation of Toxicology Tests in Legal Proceedings
Authors: Wu AHB , Hill DW , Crouch D , Hodnett CN , McCurdy HH
Published: August 2015

There have been several high profile criminal and civil cases that have been litigated in recent years involving toxicologic analyses and interpretations of blood, urine, and other specimens for drugs of abuse. Disputes have erupted between prominent toxicologists and laboratory scientists as to the validity and interpretation of the data presented. The disputes centered around the fact that the procedures used in these cases had not been properly validated with analytical noise being misinterpreted as a positive result. As with any analyses, forensic tests must be conducted in a manner such that they meet the minimum standards accepted within the toxicology community. No conclusions as to presence or absence of drug, its concentration, or its physiologic effects can be made if there is a failure to meet these basic standards. Several cases are presented where these standard tenets may not have been followed.
Postmortem Stability and Interpretation of β2-Agonist Concentrations
Authors: Couper FJ , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

This paper describes a series of stability and redistribution studies aimed at understanding the presence and significance of β2-agonists in asthma deaths. Salbutamol and terbutaline were shown to be stable in postmortem blood at 23°C for 1 week, 4°C for 6 months and −20°C for 1 to 2 years. However, fenoterol was shown to degrade at 23°C (83% loss), 4°C (93% loss) and −20°C (66% loss) over the same time. Salbutamol concentrations detected in blood taken at the time of body admission to the mortuary were not significantly different from the concentrations detected in blood taken from the same cases at the time of autopsy (45 h later). This suggests that significant postmortem redistribution of salbutamol is unlikely to occur during this period. Postmortem blood concentrations of at least salbutamol are likely to reflect the concentration of these drugs in the body at the time of death.
Aqueous Phase Hexylchloroformate Derivatization and Solid Phase Microextraction: Determination of Benzoylecgonnine in Urine by Gas Chromatography-Quadrupole Ion Trap Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Hall BJ , Parikh AR , Brodbelt JS
Published: August 2015

A derivatization/solid phase microextraction (SPME) method for the determination of benzoylecgonine in urine was developed. The derivatization is conducted directly in 1 mL of urine while sonicating for 3 min with 12 μL of hexyl chloroformate and 70 μL of a mixture containing acetonitrile:water:hexanol:2-dimethylaminopyridine (5:2:2:1 v/v), yielding benzoylecgonine hexyl ester (BHE) as the product. After the 3 min period, an aliquot of 250 μL is transferred to a vial for SPME. After the desired extraction time the 100 μm polydimethylsiloxane SPME fiber was transferred to the GC-MS for separation and analysis with a quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometer. The hexyl chloroformate derivatization and SPME procedures were optimized for compatibility and sensitivity. The method was found linear for 0.10 to 20.0 μg/mL (r2 = 0.999) of benzoylecgonine in urine using benzoylecgonine-d3 as an internal standard (1.5 μg/mL). Intra-day precisions were 8.8 and 6.8% RSD for 0.30 μg/mL and 17 μg/mL benzoylecgonine standards in urine (n = 6), respectively. Inter-day precision (n = 3) were ≤3.3% RSD, indicating good reproducibility. A detection limit of 0.03 μg/mL (S/N = 3) was achieved, thus making the SPME method a simplified alternative to SPE for GC-MS confirmation after EMIT tests for benzoylecgonine which have a cutoff of 0.30 μg/mL. Quantitative results by SPME and SPE of two clinical urine specimens known positive for cocaine by EMIT were in excellent agreement. Benzoylecgonine was detected by the derivatization/SPME method in 22 out of 22 other urine specimens known positive for cocaine.
Determination of Postmortem Interval from Old Skeletal Remains by Image Analysis of Luminol Test Results
Authors: Introna F , Di Vella G , Campobasso CP
Published: August 2015

The luminol test is routinely used in forensic serology to locate blood traces and identify blood stains not visible to the naked eye; its sensitivity is reported as ranging from 1:100.000 to 1:5.000.000. To evaluate the possibility of correlating the post-mortem interval with blood remnants in bone tissue, the luminol test was performed on 80 femurs with a known time of death, grouped in five classes. Powdered bone (30 mg) was recovered from compact tissue of the mid-shaft of each femur and was treated with 0.1 mL of Luminol solution (Sirchie Finger Print Laboratories, Inc.). The reactions were observed in a dark room and filmed by a TV camera equipped with a recording tape. An intense chemiluminescence was observed after a few seconds in all 20 femurs with a PMI ranging from 1 month to 3 years. On the 20 femurs with a PMI ranging from 10–15 years, a clear chemiluminescence was visible with the naked eye in 80% of the sample. Among the 20 femurs with a PMI ranging from 25 to 35 years, a weaker chemiluminescence appeared in 7 femurs (33% of the sample). In the 10 femurs with a PMI ranging from 50 to 60 years, a faint reaction was observed only in a single femur. In none of the ten femurs with a PMI over 80 years was chemiluminescence observed. The image of each reaction was computerized and analyzed for gray scale. The results of image analysis show a possible quantitative relationship between the PMI and luminol chemiluminescence in powdered bone.
The Psychological Impact of Stalking on Female Undergraduates
Authors: Westrup D , Fremouw WJ , Thompson RN , Lewis SF
Published: August 2015

This study examined the psychological impact of stalking upon female undergraduates, a population previously determined to experience a surprising stalking prevalence rate. Despite common understanding that stalking has deleterious effects, there have been no previous efforts to systematically assess them with standardized measures. Thirty-six female stalking victims were compared with 43 females who had been harassed and 48 controls. Psychological impact was assessed with the Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale, the Symptom Checklist-90-R, and the Self-Report Interpersonal Trust Scale. Stalked subjects endorsed significantly more PTSD symptoms and with greater severity than the harassed or control subjects. Stalked subjects also had significantly higher scores on several subscales of the SCL-90, and had significantly higher positive symptom totals and distress indices.
Revisiting Arson from an Outpatient Forensic Perspective
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA
Published: August 2015

Progress in the understanding of individuals who commit arson has been on a slow but steady course over the past two decades. From our review of court-ordered outpatient forensic psychiatric evaluation of individuals charged with arson over a five-year period, preliminary prototypical profiles of the psychotic, mentally retarded, alcohol abusing, and mood-disordered firesetter are offered. The clinical-legal relevance of our results are explored.
Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Section Award-Winning Paper of 1998
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

The current year, 1999, marks the 30th anniversary of the founding of the American Academy of Psychiatry and the Law (AAPL). AAPL was created by fifteen forensic psychiatrists and (as of this date) has 1875 members. AAFS and its Psychiatry and Behavioral Science Section have a long history of cooperation with AAPL. Most notably, AAFS and the Forensic Sciences Foundation were co-sponsors with AAPL of the American Board of Forensic Psychiatry, Inc. Subsequently, AAFS and AAPL jointly sponsored the Accreditation Council on Fellowships in Forensic Psychiatry. For the past decade, an AAFS Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences liaison committee has presented programs at the annual AAPL conventions that are designed to introduce AAPL's forensic psychiatrists to AAFS's broad range of other forensic sciences.
Dementia as a Risk Factor for Homicide
Authors: Rayel MG , Land WB , Gutheil TG
Published: August 2015

We report a patient with dementia due to B-12 deficiency and syphilis who presented to a forensic hospital after killing his ex-wife with a gun. Despite current awareness on the occurrence of aggression and violence in patients with dementia, there has been no report discussing dementia secondary to an infectious or nutritional origin causing homicide or severe violent behavior. We discuss possible mechanisms and several predisposing factors for violent behavior in the elderly. We also discuss use and access of a gun in demented patients and its complications. We recommend availability of neuropsychiatric assessments in the elderly, limitation of gun access to demented patients and inquiry about weapon possession in the elderly.