bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PCR-RFLP Identification of Diptera (Calliphoridae, Muscidae and Sarcophagidae) A Generally Applicable Method
Authors: Ratcliffe ST , Webb DW , Weinzievr RA , Robertson HM
Published: August 2015

A simple, rapid method using restriction fragment length polymorphisms (RFLPs) within the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of the ribosomal DNA gene repeat allows identification of insects and other organisms. We used the method to identify the morphologically similar Diptera larvae that are important in forensic entomology for estimating the time and location of death. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to amplify a region from the 18S to the 28S rRNA genes. The ITS1 and ITS2 regions provided variation between species and homogeneity within species, with the exception of Cochliomya macellaria. Combinations of the restriction enzymes DdeI, HinfI and Sau3AI provided diagnostic bands for identification of the ten species from three families of Diptera (Calliphoridae, Muscidae and Sarcophagidae).
Central Nervous System Consequences of an Unusual Body Disposal Strategy: Case Report and Brief Experimental Investigation
Authors: Andrews JM , Gutstadt JP , Itabashi HH , Dowell SJ , Schuchardt MS , Miller EA
Published: August 2015

The body of a 73-year-old man was dismembered by his female companion for the purpose of covert disposal. The method employed included skillful separation of body parts with hacksaw and knife, piecemeal disposal of fragments, and prolonged boiling of the decapitated head. The latter treatment resulted in marked shrinkage of cranial dura mater, separation of dura mater from skull, and extrusion of brain fragments into the resultant enlarged epidural space through a dural defect due to the disproportionately greater shrinkage of dura mater compared to brain parenchyma. This resulted in curd-like brain fragments filling an enlarged epidural space and overlying a shrunken, leathery dura mater. The cranial dura mater, still adherent to the skull base, resembled a "shrunken brain" in contour but contained only the remnants of brain tissue not already extruded through the dural defect. This unusual thermal artifact is rarely illustrated or mentioned in forensic literature. The development of this postmortem artifact likely requires the presence of a specific combination of conditions which must be, but apparently rarely are, simultaneously present.
Trends in Explosive Contamination
Authors: Oxley JC , Smith JL , Resende E , Pearce E , Chamberlain T
Published: August 2015

This study sought to assign a rough order of magnitude for the amount of explosive residue likely to be available in real-world searches for clandestine explosives. A variety of explosives (TNT, TATP, HMX, AN, RDX, PETN) in various forms (powder, flake, detonating cord, plastic) were carefully weighed or cut into containers, and the amount of residue inadvertently remaining on the work area, hands, or containers was quantified. This was used to evaluate the spillage potential of each explosive. The adhesion of each explosive to a glass surface was quantified from amount of explosive adhering to the inside of a glass vial into which the explosive had been placed and then removed by vigorous tapping. In powdered form, most of the explosives—TNT, PETN, RDX, HMX, and TATP—exhibited similar spillage and adhesion to glass. However, PETN as sheet explosive and plasticized RDX (C-4), showed very little potential to contaminate surfaces, either by spillage or adhesion to glass.
Virtopsy, a New Imaging Horizon in Forensic Pathology: Virtual Autopsy by Postmortem Multislice Computed Tomography (MSCT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)—a Feasibility Study
Authors: Thali MJ , Yen K , Schweitzer W , Vock P , Boesch C , Ozdoba C , Schroth G , Ith M , Sonnenschein M , Doernhoefer T , Scheurer E , Plattner T , Dirnhofer R
Published: August 2015

Using postmortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), 40 forensic cases were examined and findings were verified by subsequent autopsy. Results were classified as follows: (I) cause of death, (II) relevant traumatological and pathological findings, (III) vital reactions, (IV) reconstruction of injuries, (V) visualization. In these 40 forensic cases, 47 partly combined causes of death were diagnosed at autopsy, 26 (55%) causes of death were found independently using only radiological image data. Radiology was superior to autopsy in revealing certain cases of cranial, skeletal, or tissue trauma. Some forensic vital reactions were diagnosed equally well or better using MSCT/MRI. Radiological imaging techniques are particularly beneficial for reconstruction and visualization of forensic cases, including the opportunity to use the data for expert witness reports, teaching, quality control, and telemedical consultation. These preliminary results, based on the concept of “virtopsy,” are promising enough to introduce and evaluate these radiological techniques in forensic medicine.
Neuroleptic-Induced Akathisia and Violence: A Review
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA
Published: August 2015

Surprisingly, the association of neuroleptic-induced akathisia and aggressive behavior was not formally recognized until nearly two and one-half decades of antipsychotic prescribing had passed. Using a search of the anglophonic literature, this phenomenon is reviewed. Advances in psychopharmacology have reduced neuroleptic-induced akathisia and hold promise to eliminate it altogether. Nonetheless, important clinical and forensic aspects of neuroleptic-induced akathisia and aggression remain and are explored.
STR DNA Typing: Increased Sensitivity and Efficient Sample Consumption Using Reduced PCR Reaction Volumes
Authors: Leclair B , Sgueglia JB , Wojtowicz PC , Juston AC , Fregeau CJ , Fourney RM
Published: August 2015

Improvements in detection limits/sensitivity and lower sample consumption are potential benefits of reducing PCR reaction volumes used in forensic DNA typing of crime scene samples. This premise was studied first with experimental mixtures and a nine-loci megaplex, which demonstrated stochiometric amplification and accurate detection. Next, adjudicated casework samples were subjected to amplification under 15 different template DNA to PCR reaction volume ratios. Reduction of PCR reaction volume and DNA down to 10 µL and 0.500 ng, respectively, produced identical profiles with the same signal intensity and heterozygous allele peak height ratio (HR). Reduction to 5 µL and 0.063 ng yielded HR values that were slightly affected in one to three STR loci. PCR reaction volume reduction can enhance detection and sensitivity while reducing the consumption of irreplaceable crime scene samples.
The External Occipital Protuberance: Can It Be Used as a Criterion in the Determination of Sex?
Authors: Gulekon IN , Turgut HB
Published: August 2015

Sex determination of a corpse can be problematic in cases where the body is damaged. Useful criteria would assist in the identification of sex in such cases. The goal of this study is to determine the usefulness of the external occipital protuberance (EOP) in the determination of sex, especially in lateral cranium radiographs. The types and configurations of the EOP were investigated on normal lateral cranium radiographs of 1000 subjects (500 males and 500 females) and 694 dry-skull remains (371 males and 323 females) from a 16th Century Anatolian population for the purpose of sex determination. In the radiographic examination, the incidence of less prominent (Type 1) EOP is found to be 85.4% in females whereas 17.8% in males. The spine type (Type 3) EOP is found to be 63.4% in males and to be 4.2% in females. On the other hand, studies of dryskull remains revealed the incidence of Type 1 EOP to be 67.5% in females and Type 3 EOP to be 55.2% in males. The crest type (Type 2) EOP is approximately equal in both sexes and is found to be less valuable for sex determination in both groups.
Age Estimation from Teeth in Children and Adolescents
Authors: Muller-Bolla M , Lupi-Pégurier L , Quatrehomme G , Velly AM , Bolla M
Published: August 2015

The aim of this cross-sectional study was to evaluate the dental formulas according to age because of possible changes during the last decades. From these dental formulas, the median age of emergence for the permanent teeth was deduced.

The study population corresponded to the 1 to 15 year-old children who had consulted either a pediatric dentist or orthodontist in the city of Nice (France). Data were collected from the 5848 patients' charts that included an orthopantomography. This permitted the observation of emerged teeth and agenesis. Bar charts were used to indicate the dental formula according to age.

There was no significant difference in the emergence pattern of both controlateral maxillary and mandibular teeth. Only the anterior tooth emergence significantly differed according to the maxillary. The lower central incisor was the lone tooth with a median age earlier than others; the remaining teeth had an age equivalent to those of previously estimates.
Evaluation of a Multicapillary Electrophoresis Instrument for Mitochondrial DNA Typing
Authors: Stewart JEB , Aagaard PJ , Pokorak EG , Polanskey D , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

Laser-induced detection of fluorescent labeled PCR products and multi-wavelength detection (i.e., multicolor analysis) enables rapid generation of mtDNA sequencing profiles. Traditionally, polyacrylamide slab gels have been used as the electrophoretic medium for mtDNA sequencing in forensic analyses. Replacement of slab gel electrophoresis with capillary electrophoresis (CE) can facilitate automation of the analytical process. Automation and high throughput can be further enhanced by using multicapillary electrophoretic systems. The use of the ABI Prism® 3100 Genetic Analyzer (ABI 3100, Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) as well as the ABI Prism™ 310 Genetic Analyzer (ABI 310, Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) were evaluated for mtDNA sequencing capabilities and compared with sequencing results obtained on the platform currently in use in the FBI Laboratory (the ABI Prism™ 377 DNA Sequencer, ABI 377, Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Various studies were performed to assess the utility of the ABI 3100, as well as the ABI 310 for mtDNA sequencing. The tests included: comparisons of results obtained among the ABI 3100, the ABI 310 and the ABI 377 instruments; comparisons of results obtained within and between capillary arrays; evaluation of capillary length; evaluation of sample injection time; evaluation of the resolution of mixtures/heteroplasmic samples; and evaluation of the sensitivity of detection of a minor component with reduced template on the ABI 3100. In addition, other studies were performed to improve sample preparation; these included: comparison of template suppression reagent (TSR, Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) versus formamide; the use of Performa™ DTR Gel Filtration Cartridges (Edge BioSystems™ Inc., Gaithersburg, MD) versus Centri-Sep Spin Columns (Princeton Separations, Adelphia, NJ) for product purification after cycle sequencing; and sample stability after denaturation. The data support that valid and reliable results can be obtained using either capillary electrophoresis instrument, and the quality of sequencing results are comparable to or better than those obtained from the ABI 377 instrument.
Basque Country Autochthonous Population Data on D8S1179, D21S11, D18S51 and D16S539 Loci
Authors: Garcia O , Martin P , Albarran C , Alonso A
Published: August 2015

Whole blood samples were obtained from 206 unrelated Basque Country autochthonous donors (individuals were considered autochthonous if the eight surnames and birthplace of their grandparents were of Basque origin). Genomic DNA was extracted by a standard phenol/chloroform extraction procedure. PCR amplification was performed using the AmpFℓSTR Green II and D16 PCR amplification kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA) following manufacturer's instructions. The amplified products were separated and detected using the ABI 377 DNA sequencer (PE Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Alleles were classified according to the recommendations of the ISFH (1). Statistical analysis was performed as previously reported (2)
Diffuse Vascular Injury in Fatal Road Traffic Accident Victims: Its Relationship to Diffuse Axonal Injury
Authors: Pittella JEH , Gusmao SNS
Published: August 2015

The authors have reported a macro- and microscopic study of brain lesions in 120 victims of fatal road traffic accidents, independent of the survival time. Diffuse vascular injury (DVI) was found in 14 patients (11.7%). All patients with DVI died within 24 h after the accident. The 14 patients with DVI also showed severe (Grade 2 or 3) diffuse axonal injury (DAI). Since DVI is restricted to road traffic accidents and incompatible with life, the high frequency observed in our series could be explained by the fact that all 120 patients were victims of road traffic accidents, and 69.2% had died within 24 h after the accident. The association between DVI and severe DAI (Grades 2 and 3) suggests that both lesions depend on the same mechanism, with the degree of axonal and vascular damage being determined by the intensity of the head acceleration. Our results show a relationship between DVI and DAI that suggest there may be a spectrum or at least a continuum between these entities as distinct from DVI being a separate entity.
Turkish Population Data on the CTTV STR Loci
Authors: Çetinkaya G , Űlküer Ű , Togan İ
Published: August 2015

The samples were collected from 168 unrelated Turkish individuals randomly selected from criminal cases. The DNA was extracted from fresh blood leucocytes and blood stains following the published methods (1,2). For each PCR mix 2-25 ng of DNA was added to the PCR mix. All the CTTV loci were amplified in one reaction tube. Amplification of multiplex loci was done with the help of GenePrint STR system CTTV kit in accordance of the manufacturer's (Promega Corp., Madison, WI) recommendations. Separations of the amplified alleles were performed by ABI Prism 310 Genetic Analyzer. The exact test (3) for the presence of HardyWeinberg equilibrium was carried out by the TFPGA (4) program. Heterozygosity (5) values (expected and observed) for the populations were calculated by employing GENETIX (6) program.
Commentary on: Lewis C. WinID2 versus CAPMI4: two computer-assisted dental identification systems. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(3):536-538
Authors: McGivney J
Published: August 2015

Lewis's paper may leave the reader with several misconceptions of how computers are used in dental mass disaster identification.
A Study to Investigate the Evidential Value of Blue Gel Pen Inks
Authors: Mazzella WD , Khanmy-Vital A
Published: August 2015

The aim of this project was to investigate the evidential value of blue gel pen inks in Europe. For this purpose, 33 blue gel pen inks, of different brands and models, representative of those available on the European market at the time of the study, were analyzed using three techniques: filtered light examination (FLE), Raman Spectroscopy (RS), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). First, after visual examination (naked eye and stereo microscope), it was possible to classify the 33 inks into three groups described as: milky, metallic, and normal. This paper describes in detail the results obtained for the normal gel pen group. The ability of the techniques to discriminate gel inks between and within brands varied. The results indicated that RS and SEM were more discriminating than FLE. The greatest degree of differentiation was achieved when using a combination of RS and SEM techniques (discriminating power = 0.91). This study also highlights some problems concerning the identification of the brand of a gel pen from a written text.
Allele Frequencies for Six STR Loci (D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, FGA) in a Population Sample of North Italy
Authors: Turrina S , De Leo D
Published: August 2015

Whole blood samples were collected from 170 unrelated healthy individuals living in the North Italy. Genomic DNA was extracted using GenomicPrep Blood DNA Isolation Kit (Amersham-Pharmacia-Biotech, Milano, Italy) and its concentration was determined spectrophotometrically. Two to five ng of target DNA was amplified in singleplex for FGA and D8S1179, while duplex amplification was adopting for D13S317/D16S539 and D5S818/D7S820. PCR amplification conditions were the same for all six loci and the program of amplification were carried out in a GeneAmp® PCR System 9700 Thermal Cycler (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). The amplified products were separated and detected using the A.L.F. express DNA sequencer (Pharmacia-Biotech, Uppsula, Sweden). Allele designation was established following the recommendations of the DNA commission of the ISFH (1). Statistical analysis was performed as previously reported (2) by a computer program made from the authors using Excel spread sheets.
Postmortem Oxycodone and Hydrocodone Blood Concentrations
Authors: Spiller HA
Published: August 2015

There is limited data on postmortem oxycodone concentrations, consisting of three published reports with a total of 11 cases, many of which were polypharmacy cases. This report presents the results of a review of autopsy and coroner's reports from 10 counties for the years 2000 and 2001 to locate cases with oxycodone or hydrocodone exposure as a leading cause of death. Eighty-eight cases were located. Twenty-four deaths were attributed to oxycodone alone. Mean and median postmortem oxycodone blood concentrations were 1.23 mg/L and 0.43 mg/L, respectively. The range was 0.12 to 8.0 mg/L, with 13 cases (54%) ⩽0.5/L. Seventeen deaths were attributed to hydrocodone alone. Mean and median postmortem hydrocodone blood concentrations were 0.53 mg/L and 0.40 mg/L, respectively. The range was 0.12 to 1.6 mg/L, with 11 cases (65%) ⩽0.5/L. There were seven cases where the cause of death was attributed to the effects of a combination of hydrocodone and oxycodone. Mean oxycodone and hydrocodone blood concentrations were 0.34 mg/L and 0.14 mg/L, respectively. Forty cases involved polysubstance overdoses with significant involvement of other drugs and ethanol. Mean oxycodone and hydrocodone blood concentrations were 0.18 mg/L and 0.29 mg/L, respectively. The list of other substances involved was extensive but included ethanol, amitriptyline, methadone, codeine, propoxyphene, and acetaminophen. The findings of this study report oxycodone values associated with a fatality at blood concentrations lower than previously reported. This may represent enhanced information because of the larger sample group. Hydrocodone values associated with a fatality were similar to previously published values.
Review of: Digital Evidence and Computer Crime
Authors: Collins JM
Published: August 2015

Hundreds of books have been written on computers and computing, but my search found none that included the topics of cybercrime and computer forensics. Further, most computer-related books are targeted toward audiences knowledgeable about computer technology, and many of these are strictly applied, providing no theoretical basis for interpreting underlying concepts. For the average citizen who has no background in "digital data" and the reader who seeks a conceptual framework for what is written, most texts seem limited and lacking. In Digital Evidence and Computer Crime, however, Eoghan Casey (2001) brilliantly articulates technical details in lay terms for a wide audience ranging from those with little or no computer-related experience to knowledgeable experts in the field.
Commentary on: Wickenheiser RA. Trace DNA: a review, discussion of theory and application of the transfer of trace quantities of DNA through skin contact. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(3): 442–50.
Authors: Sutherland B , Cordiner S , Bright J , Walsh SJ
Published: August 2015

We note that Mr. Ray Wickenheiser's review of trace DNA briefly discusses the potential of fingerprints to transport DNA from the donor's skin onto touched surfaces.
High Mortality Rates Among Inmates During the Year Following Their Discharge from a French Prison
Authors: Verger P , Rotily M , Prudhomme J , Bird S
Published: August 2015

While the poor health status of prisoners has been highlighted in Western countries, the surveillance of their mortality has been neglected. We studied the mortality of 1305 prisoners released during 1997 from a French prison. Vital status after release was obtained for 86.4% of them. Compared with the general population, ex-prisoners non-natural mortality rates were significantly increased both in the 15-34 and 35-54 age categories (3.5-fold and 10.6-fold respectively) and the risk of death due to overdose was 124 and 274 times higher in the same categories respectively. Prevention and care should be reinforced in the pre-release period without waiting more epidemiological data.
Stability of Cholesterol Gall Stones After 165 Years of Burial
Authors: Wu AB , Bellantoni NF
Published: August 2015

A woman who died in 1837 was exhumed for the purposes of moving the grave to another location. During the excavation, small white deposits of stone were uncovered in the right abdominal region, inferior to the rib cage and superior to the ilium blade. These stones were analyzed for cholesterol, bilirubin, and calcium following solubilization using methyl tert-butyl ether as a solvent. The results of these clinical chemistry analyses showed that these stones consisted primarily of cholesterol. Under these particular soil conditions encountered in this case, cholesterol gall stones are stable for at least 165 years.
Isolation of DNA from Saliva of Betel Quid Chewers Using Treated Cards
Authors: Salvador JM , De Ungria MCA
Published: August 2015

Betel quid (BQ) chewing, a common tradition in tropical areas, often poses a problem during collection and DNA analysis of buccal samples from many indigenous communities for population genetic studies and in forensic analysis of chewed BQ residues. This study evaluated the use of FTA™ card, a chemically treated filter paper, in collecting buccal samples from long-term BQ users and subsequent PCR-based analysis using nine STR markers. A low overall success rate of amplification was observed in the samples extracted using a standard organic extraction procedure (7%) as compared with those prepared using the FTA™ card (89%). The presence of inhibitors in liquid DNA samples was verified when control DNA failed to amplify in the presence of an equal volume of liquid BQ samples. The use of the FTA™ card is more practical during field sampling than handling tubes containing buccal swabs.
Frequencies at CD4, FES, and F13A1 Microsatellite Loci in Central-Southern Sardinia (Italy)
Authors: Battaggia C , Ruscitto D , Destro-Bisol G , Vacca L , Calo C , Vona G
Published: August 2015

DNA samples were extracted and purified by salting out procedure, precipitated by absolute ethanol and quantified by 1% agarose gel. The DNAs were amplified by Perkin Elmer PCR system 2400 using standard PCR protocols (2-4). Amplified products were separated in denaturing acrylamide gel using an Automated Laser Fluorescent apparatus as previously described (5). HardyWeinberg tests and analysis of genotypic disequilibrium between unlinked loci were carried out by using the Genepop software (6). The results obtained are shown in Table 1. It is to be noted that in all single-locus and multilocus tests, the p-value was statistically insignificant. Furthermore, we calculated the linkage disequilibrium between genotypes of independent loci. Among the possible three pairs of loci, only one case of statistically significant p-value was obtained (FES/F13A1; p = 0.024). Complete data are available at the e-mail address of the corresponding author upon request.
Evidence in Support of Self-Declaration as a Sampling Method for the Formation of Sub-Population DNA Databases
Authors: Walsh SJ , Triggs CM , Curran JM , Cullen JR , Buckleton JS
Published: August 2015

In general, the use of DNA profiling results in the context of a criminal or legal investigation must be qualified by an estimation of the statistical weight of the DNA evidence. There are various approaches used to arrive at such an estimate but all rely on reference to databases of DNA profiles, which are usually segregated into predominant sub-populations based on the ethnic origin of sample donors. The compilation and validation of sub-population databases to support forensic DNA interpretation is a prerequisite of forensic biology laboratory accreditation (1-3). In Australia, the accuracy and adequacy of such databases has been scrutinized closely in the criminal courts (4,5). Kaska et al. (6) and Ayres et al. (7) examined the comparability of sub-population data obtained under different mechanisms for assigning ethnicity, but there has been limited research into the mechanisms themselves.
Author's Response
Authors: Stephan CN
Published: August 2015

I am pleased that the original article on eyeball projection has generated interest and critical review by E. Craig, however, she does not support her suggestions with evidence. The literature clearly states that the mid-orbital tangent guideline specifically predicts the “outer point of the cornea” (1) p. 266, (2) p. 429, (3) p. 381, (4) p. 429, (5) p. 29, or the "apex of the cornea" (6) p. 328. Given E. Craig's comments, either the original guideline, although inaccurate (7), was intended to be used for globe positioning using the cornea as cited over the past 40 years (1–6) (note as recently as last year); or there has been initially, or at some later stage, a misunderstanding of basic anatomical terminology, with the iris being mistaken for the cornea; or changes have been made to the traditional globe projection guideline on a post-hoc basis by using the iris to “explain away” error in the original published guideline.
Allele Frequencies of Y-Chromosome STR Loci DYS385 and DYS392 in Three Eastern Spanish Populations
Authors: Jimenez G , Rigo AP , Castro JA , Ramon MM
Published: August 2015

Blood samples were collected from healthy autochthonous unre- 2. lated males from Valencia and the islands of Majorca and Minorca (Spain). DNA was extracted by means of a standard phenol/ cloroform DNA protocol (1). Coamplification of the loci DYS385 and DYS392 was performed in a duplex reaction, using approximately 20 ng of genomic DNA in a total reaction volume of 25 µL. The primers used are described in Kayser et al. (2) and de Knijff et al. (3). PCR cycling conditions were as described in Furedi et al. (4), with minor modifications. A GeneAmp PCR System 2400 (PE Applied Biosystems) was used for amplification. Detection of the amplified products was carried out using an ABI 310 automatic sequencer (Perkin-Elmer) along with the GENESCAN 2.1 Analysis software. Our own allele ladders were used for allele designations. Allele nomenclature was as proposed by Kayser et al. (2) and de Knijff et 8. al. (3). Gene diversity was estimated according to Nei (5). Allele frequencies, as well as pairwise analysis, were calculated using the ARLEQUIN package (6). Data on Iberian populations were used for comparisons (7-11). DYS392 gene diversities (0.448-0.640) were within the range of those observed in the other Y-chromosome STRs studied in these samples (12), whereas DYS385 had the highest gene diversities (0.615-0.755). Comparisons between all of the three populations studied showed no significant differences. When comparisons were carried out with other Iberian populations, significant differences were observed at DYS385. With respect to Catalonia and Andalusia, we found differences at DYS392.
Filtration Based DNA Preparation for Sexual Assault Cases
Authors: Garvin A
Published: August 2015

Police departments in the United States currently have as many as 500,000 unprocessed swabs taken from rape victims. The standard method for purifying sperm from these swabs is to resuspend first all cells and to digest selectively the excess of the victim's epithelial cells. The intact sperm are then separated from the contaminating solubilized DNA by centrifugation, careful removal of supernatant, and extensive washing of the sperm pellet, all steps that are difficult to automate. Vacuum driven filtration is an alternative method for separating sperm from digested epithelial cells that requires only pipetting steps and can be readily automated in a 96 well format. Sperm DNA is enriched 45-fold using this process and the yield of PCR ready DNA is roughly 20% of the amount originally present on the swab.
Methadone-Related Deaths in Hennepin County, Minnesota: 1992-2002
Authors: Gagajewski A , Apple FS
Published: August 2015

Methadone maintenance therapy (MMT) is the only currently established medical therapy for heroin addiction. However, MMT still remains controversial. In Hennepin County, Minnesota, methadone is one of the top ten drugs reported in medical examiner investigated deaths and one of the most commonly diverted pharmaceuticals. This report reviews the role of methadone in medical examiner deaths over a 10-year period, 1992-2002. We compare cause and manner of death (accidental, natural, suicide) and methadone blood concentrations for decedents who were members of MMT programs with illicit users and those prescribed methadone for chronic pain. Findings reveal that 65% of decedents with measurable blood methadone concentrations were not participating in MMT programs. A total of 96 cases were identified, with the majority white (90.5%) and male (76.8%). MMTP program members were the minority (34.7%) of the methadone positive deaths and 39% were illicit users. Fifteen percent were chronic pain patients with almost half of this group dying from overdose. Methadone concentrations of drug caused/related deaths (0.18-3.99 mg/L) overlapped with those of deaths not attributable to methadone (0.18-3.03 mg/L) with no definable lethal level. Interpretation of methadone blood concentrations must be done in the context of the clinical history for determining cause of death, and may be confounded by postmortem redistribution.
Optimization of the Separation of Organic Explosives by Capillary Electrophoresis with Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Casamento S , Kwok B , Roux C , Dawson M , Doble P
Published: August 2015

The separation of 12 explosives by capillary electrophoresis was optimized with the aid of artificial neural networks (ANNs). The selectivity of the separation was manipulated by varying the concentration of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and the pH of the electrolyte, while maintaining the buffer concentration at 10 mM borate. The concentration of SDS and the electrolyte pH were used as input variables and the mobility of the explosives were used as output variables for the ANN. In total, eight experiments were performed based on a factorial design to train a variety of artificial neural network architectures. A further three experiments were required to train ANN architectures to adequately model the experimental space. A product resolution response surface was constructed based on the predicted mobilities of the best performing ANN. This response surface pointed to two optima; pH 9.0-9.1 and 60-65 mM SDS, and pH 8.4-8.6 and 50-60 mM SDS. Separation of all 12 explosives was achieved at the second optimum. The separation was further improved by changing the capillary to an extended cell detection window and reducing the diameter of the capillary from 75 µm to 50 µm. This provided a more efficient separation without compromising detection sensitivity.
Sequence Polymorphisms of the Mitochondrial DNA Control Region in 105 Chinese Han Population
Authors: Rao L , Wu MY , Liang WB , Zhang L
Published: August 2015

A total of 105 EDTA blood samples were collected from unrelated blood donors living in Chengdu, Southwest China. DNA was extracted according to the method of Miller et al. (1). The quantity of DNA was estimated by fluorometry.
The Use of Dental Aging Techniques in Forensic Odontological Practice
Authors: Pretty IA
Published: August 2015

Many studies have been published describing numerous techniques to determine the aging of individuals from dental tissues. However, few case reports demonstrate how such techniques can be employed by the forensic odontologist undertaking casework. Indeed, many of the techniques are highly complex and utilize equipment not generally available to odontologists outside of the university or hospital systems. This paper describes five cases where dental aging was used for identification in the absence of materials for any other techniques. In each case the Bang and Ramm method was employed using sectioned teeth. Teeth were sectioned, photographed, and scaled in image analysis software. Bang and Ramm equations were employed, and in each case an age was derived. The estimated age was supplied to the coroner, who was able to use the information to positively identify five individuals for whom no other identification system was feasible.
Chinese Population Data on DXS6797 and GATA144D04 Loci
Authors: Ying BW , Shi MS , Deng JQ , Hou YP , Yan JY , Li YB , Wu J , Zhang J , Lin W
Published: August 2015

Blood samples were collected from unrelated individuals of Chinese Han ethnic group in Chengdu of China. DNA was extracted using Chelex method (1). PCR amplification conditions can be accessed at http://www.legalmed.org/dna/DXS6797.htm. The volume of PCR reaction for each locus was 37.5 µL. The PCR products were analyzed by horizontal non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with discontinuous buffer system and visualized by silver staining (2). Data of female population genetics and forensic science were analyzed using POWERSTATS program (3). The complete dataset can be accessed at http://www. legalmed.org/dna/DXS6797.htm.
DNA Polymorphism Study at D1S80, DYS19, DYS287, and DYF155S2 in Two Tribal Populations from Central India
Authors: Das B , Seshadri M
Published: August 2015

Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples using a rapid non-enzymatic method (1). The PCR primers and the amplification parameters of D1S80 were as described by Kasai et al. (2) for DYS19 as per Kayser et al. (3) and de Knjiff et al. (4) for DYS287 (YAP) as per Hammer and Horai (5) and for DYF155S2 as per Jobling and Tyler-Smith (6). PCR amplification of all the four loci was achieved by using locus specific primers flanking the repeat region and was carried out in an eppendorf™ Master Cycler. For D1S80 and DYF155S2, the amplimers were resolved on 4% non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel followed by silver staining, whereas for DYS287 (YAP) locus, the amplimers were electrophoresed on 2% agarose gel stained with ethidium bromide. For DYS19 locus, the forward primer was labeled with flourescent CY5™ dye amidite and the amplimers were electrophoresed on 6% denaturing urea gel (7M) using ALF Express DNA Sequencer (Amersham Pharmacia Biosciences, PVT. Ltd., Uppasala, Sweden). Internal ladders were used in addition to external standards (CY5™ labeled 50-500 bp DNA ladder) for accurate size determination. The amplimers of DYS19 locus were also compared with the standards, kindly supplied by Dr. Chris Tyler-Smith from Oxford University, Oxford, UK, for confirmation.
RuvbL1 and RuvbL2 enhance aggresome formation and disaggregate amyloid fibrils
Authors: Zaarur Nava , Xu Xiaobin , Lestienne Patrick , Meriin Anatoli B , McComb Mark , Costello Catherine E , Newnam Gary P , Ganti Rakhee , Romanova Nina V , Shanmugasundaram Maruda , Silva Sara TN , Bandeiras Tiago M , Matias Pedro M , Lobachev Kirill S , Lednev Igor K , Chernoff Yury O , Sherman Michael Y
Published: August 2015

The aggresome is an organelle that recruits aggregated proteins for storage and degradation. We performed an siRNA screen for proteins involved in aggresome formation and identified novel mammalian AAA+ protein disaggregases RuvbL1 and RuvbL2. Depletion of RuvbL1 or RuvbL2 suppressed aggresome formation and caused buildup of multiple cytoplasmic aggregates. Similarly, downregulation of RuvbL orthologs in yeast suppressed the formation of an aggresome‐like body and enhanced the aggregate toxicity. In contrast, their overproduction enhanced the resistance to proteotoxic stress independently of chaperone Hsp104. Mammalian RuvbL associated with the aggresome, and the aggresome substrate synphilin‐1 interacted directly with the RuvbL1 barrel‐like structure near the opening of the central channel. Importantly, polypeptides with unfolded structures and amyloid fibrils stimulated the ATPase activity of RuvbL. Finally, disassembly of protein aggregates was promoted by RuvbL. These data indicate that RuvbL complexes serve as chaperones in protein disaggregation.
The association between circulating IGF1, IGFBP3, and calcium: results from NHANES III
Authors: Van Hemelrijck Mieke , Shanmugalingam Thurkaa , Bosco Cecilia , Wulaningsih Wahyu , Rohrmann Sabine
Published: August 2015

Background

Despite mounting evidence linking both calcium and IGF1, there is a lack of studies investigating any association between circulating levels of IGF1 and serum calcium.

Methods

Serum calcium, IGF1, and IGF-binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) were measured for 5368 participants in NHANES III. We calculated multivariable-adjusted geometric means of serum concentrations of IGF1, IGFBP3, and IGF1/IGFBP3 by categories of calcium (lowest 5% (<1.16 mmol/l), mid 90%, and top 5% (≥1.31 mmol/l)). We also performed stratified analyses by sex, age, ethnicity, BMI, serum levels of vitamin D, and bone mineral density (BMD).

Results

Overall, we found that circulating calcium was positively associated with circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3, but not their molar ratio (i.e., geometric mean of IGF1 by increasing calcium categories: 237.63, 246.51, and 264.22 ng/nl; Ptrend: 0.43; Pfirst vs third category: 0.01). In particular, these associations were observed in women, people aged <60, non-Hispanic whites, those with vitamin D levels above the mean, and those with low BMD. In contrast, there was an inverse association with the molar ratio for those with BMI ≥30 kg/m2.

Conclusion

We found an overall positive association between circulating levels of IGF1 and IGFBP3 and serum calcium. However, stratification by potential effect-modifiers did not support all suggested hypotheses. Our findings provide more insight into the interplay between calcium and IGF1, which in the future can be investigated in larger observational studies allowing for additional stratifications based on a combination of the different effect-modifiers investigated here.
Computed Tomography and Shifts to Alternate Imaging Modalities in Hospitalized Children
Authors: Parker Michelle W. , Shah Samir S. , Hall Matthew , Fieldston Evan S. , Coley Brian D. , Morse Rustin B.
Published: August 2015

BACKGROUND:

Many studies have demonstrated a rise in computed tomography (CT) utilization in children’s hospitals. However, CT utilization may be declining, perhaps due to awareness of potential hazards of pediatric ionizing radiation, such as increased risk of malignancy. The objective is to assess the trend in CT utilization in hospitalized children at freestanding children’s hospitals from 2004 to 2012 and we hypothesize decreases are associated with shifts to alternate imaging modalities.

METHODS:

Multicenter cross-sectional study of children admitted to 33 pediatric tertiary-care hospitals participating in the Pediatric Health Information System between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2012. The rates of CT, ultrasound, and MRI for the top 10 All-Patient Refined Diagnosis Related Groups (APR-DRGs) for which CT was performed in 2004 were determined by billing data. Rates of each imaging modality for those top 10 APR-DRGs were followed through the study period. Odds ratios of imaging were adjusted for demographics and illness severity.

RESULTS:

For all included APR-DRGs except ventricular shunt procedures and nonbacterial gastroenteritis, the number of children imaged with any modality increased. CT utilization decreased for all APR-DRGs (P values < .001). For each of the APR-DRGs except seizure and infections of upper respiratory tract, the decrease in CT was associated with a significant rise in an alternative imaging modality (P values ≤ .005).

CONCLUSIONS:

For the 10 most common APR-DRGs for which children received CT in 2004, a decrease in CT utilization was found in 2012. Alternative imaging modalities for 8 of the diagnoses were used.
Aspectos da desordem urbana: imigrantes ibéricos e a contravenção no Rio de Janeiro republicano (1880-1930)
Authors: Sarmiento Erica , Menezes Lená Medeiros de
Published: August 2015

A imigração ibérica no Rio de Janeiro do período da Grande Imigração (1880-1930) ocupou lugar de destaque nas principais freguesias da cidade. Nos espaços populares e nas tensões cotidianas que faziam parte do cenário urbano, os espanhóis criaram assentamentos étnicos e concentraram-se em determinados ofícios e profissões, formando redes de solidariedade. Sua participação em atividades consideradas ilícitas, de caráter eminentemente popular, como o jogo do bicho, demonstra o entrosamento desses grupos com a sociedade carioca e a sua inserção e adaptação no cotidiano da cidade. Através de fontes históricas como os processos policiais e os processos de expulsão, esse estudo busca reconstruir algumas histórias de encontros e conflitos, apoio e repulsão, que envolveram os imigrantes ibéricos
Disparity of outcomes: the limits of modeling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in murine models and translating results clinically
Authors: Zwiegers Pierre , Shaw Christopher A
Published: August 2015

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a devastatingly progressive neurodegenerative disorder with multiple underlying etiological factors contributing to disease pathogenesis. Despite intensive research efforts and therapeutic development, disease presentation in ALS remains largely intractable to intervention. To date, the most common rodent model used in pre-clinical drug development accounts for a small proportion of the affected patient population and is predicated upon the significant overexpression of a mutant form of the human antioxidant protein, superoxide dismutase 1 (mSOD1). After more than 50 clinical trials, there is an alarming paucity of positive outcomes at the clinical level of ALS therapeutics with strong supporting pre-clinical data in mSOD1 models. Potential reasons for the negative clinical results are multifactorial in nature and include an overly reductionist model system that is heavily influenced by individual transgene level variation, as well as attempting to widely apply findings derived from a model of specific genetic causality to a patient population where the majority of cases are of unknown etiology. With such a tremendous disease burden and a lack of therapeutic options, it is critical that the research community re-evaluate the dependence on mSOD1 pre-clinical models as the gold standard prior to translating findings at the clinical level. Here we briefly review both the clinical and pre-clinical findings of select therapeutics, discuss the limitations of pre-clinical mSOD1 models, and suggest future stratagems that could aid in the clinical translation of efficacious therapeutic agents.
Difficulties Experienced by Prospective Teachers of Psychology during the Teaching Practice
Authors: Lazdauskas Tomas , Saikauskienė Albina
Published: August 2015

The analysis of reflections submitted in the reports about the teaching practice of the prospective teachers of psychology is presented in the article. The main purpose of this analysis is to reveal the difficulties experienced by prospective teachers of psychology during their teaching practice. The reports about the teaching practice, issued by the fourth-year students (N = 44), studying according to the syllabus of psychology at the full-time department, were selected for analysis. The thematic analysis method was applied for analysis of reflections; the difficulties experienced by the students during their teaching practice, serve as the unit of analysis. The results of the investigation proved that all students experience difficulties while planning and / or delivering the lessons during their practice. 149 statements, reflecting the difficulties, experienced during the teaching practice, are field in reflections of the students. The thematic analysis of the students’ reflections allowed singling out seven main themes, which define the experienced difficulties to the best extent, i.e. the material (14.77 %), methods (20.81 %), class management (27.52 %), knowledge / competences (4.03 %), emotions (10.07 %), time management (18.12 %) and organization of work (4.70 %). The themes and sub-themes, which were singled out, allow foreseeing the spheres of the content of the pedagogical studies, to which the utmost attention must be devoted, seeking for improvement of the quality of studies. These themes are discussed in the context of the other investigations in the present article; the possibilities of perfection of preparation of the teachers of psychology are discussed and the guidelines for further investigations are foreseen herein.
Statistical Survey: the Proportion of Students Willing to Become Teachers of Mathematics
Authors: Januškevičius Romanas , Pumputis Dalius
Published: August 2015

The article discusses the problems of mathematical literacy of graduates from secondary schools as well as the problems related to the increasing gap between higher and secondary education institutions in Europe and in Lithuania, whereof education system has been undergoing the reform. The results of a statistical survey, which was carried out in Lithuanian University of Educational Sciences, are also presented. The survey focused on the analysis of the answers of the selected population of students to the question ‘What is the proportion of students willing to become teachers?’ The answer to this question has received highly controversial evaluations from specialists of the Ministry of Education and Science of the Republic of Lithuania, who administer financing of universities, on the one hand, and specialists in educational science, who have been conducting the aforesaid surveys and research, on the other hand. The simple statistical analysis and some methods of survey sampling were applied to solve this problem. Differently from the situation of earlier years, the survey results show that nowadays the above-mentioned proportion of students is growing.
Nowcasting Business Cycles: A Bayesian Approach to Dynamic Heterogeneous Factor Models
Authors: D'Agostino Antonello , Giannone Domenico , Lenza Michele , Modugno Michele
Published: August 2015

We develop a framework for measuring and monitoring business cycles in real time. Following a long tradition in macroeconometrics, inference is based on a variety of indicators of economic activity, treated as imperfect measures of an underlying index of business cycle conditions. We extend existing approaches by permitting for heterogenous lead-lag patterns of the various indicators along the business cycles. The framework is well suited for high-frequency monitoring of current economic conditions in real time - nowcasting - since inference can be conducted in presence of mixed frequency data and irregular patterns of data availability. Our assessment of the underlying index of business cycle conditions is accurate and more timely than popular alternatives, including the Chicago Fed National Activity Index (CFNAI). A formal real-time forecasting evaluation shows that the framework produces well-calibrated probability nowcasts that resemble the consensus assessment of the Survey of Professional Forecasters.