bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Technique for Determining Mechanical Properties of Thick Composite Laminates
Authors: Ciriscioli Peter R. , Springer George S. , Wang Qiuling
Published: July 2017

A technique is described for determining the mechanical properties of thick composite laminates. According to this technique the test specimens are cut out from thin sublaminates separated from the main laminate by porous Teflon sheets. Data are presented which show the usefulness of the method in measuring tensile, compressive and short beam shear properties, void contents and fiber volumes of laminates consisting of as many as 1000 plies.
Measurements of Temperature Induced Deformations in Composite Cylindrical Shells
Authors: Doxseb Lawrence E. , Springer George S.
Published: July 2017

Teas were conducted measuring the deformations of composite open cylindrical shells subjected to temperature changes. The cylindrical shells were made of 16 plies of Fiberite T300/934 unidirectional graphite-epoxy tape arranged as cither [02/902]2, or [902/02)2,. The measured deformations were compared to the results of a higher order shell theory. It is shown that terms representing extensional strain in the thickness direction must be considered for the analysis to represent the data accurately.
Delamination Buckling: Theory and Experiment
Authors: Davidson B. D.
Published: July 2017

A Rayleigh-Ritz analysis is presented to determine the load or strain at which delamination buckling will occur for a composite laminate containing a single delamination. This delamination is assumed to be elliptical in shape, with local axes of symmetry which may be at an angle relative to the global plate axes. The laminate is assumed to be subjected to global loading which transforms to a loading with a relatively small shear component when taken about the local axes of the elliptical delamination. Special cases of this type of loading include uniaxial and biaxial compression. Possible bending-stretching coupling behavior of the delaminated region and the effect of Poisson's ratio mismatch between the delaminated and base region are investigated. Analytical predictions for delamination buckling loads are shown to correlate well with experimental results for a number of different geometries.
Influence of Fiber Length on the Viscous Flow of an Oriented Fiber Assembly
Authors: Pipes R. Byron , Hearle J. W. S. , Beaussart A. J. , Okine R. K.
Published: July 2017

The effective elongational viscosity for an oriented fiber assembly of discontinuous fibers suspended in a viscous matrix fluid is developed for a fiber array with variable overalp length of both symmetric and antisymmetric geometries. The results for symmetric and antisymmetric geometries are shown to be equivalent. For variation in fiber length within the assembly, an integral representation is developed and normalized frequency functions of zeroth and first order are exercised. Effective elongational viscosity is calculated for actual fiber length data. Results are compared to predictions for the constant fiber length equal to the mean length and the relative contributions of each fiber length interval to the effective viscosity are determined. Results show that small percentages of long fibers can have a disproportional large influence upon effective assembly viscosity. Finally, for independent fiber length and overlap length distributions of zeroth order, the average effective viscosity is shown to be a polynomial relation of second order in fiber length and third order in overlap length.
Dynamic Delamination Propagation in Composite Beams
Authors: Sankar Bhavam V. , Hu Shoufeng
Published: July 2017

The problem of dynamic delamination growth in composite beams is analyzed using finite clement method. The delaminated beam is modeled as two beams above and below the plane of delamination. Spring elements are used to connect the beams in the uncracked portion. The dynamic energy release rate is calculated from the strain energy in the crack-tip springs. The crack is allowed to propagate when the energy release rate reaches a critical value estimated from experiments. The crack growth histories are compared with results from tests on composite beams containing implanted delaminations. The finite element model is found to be adequate in predicting dynamic delamination growth in laminated composite beams.
The Fracture Behavior of Carbon/Epoxy Laminates Containing Internal Cut Fibers
Authors: Tian Z. , Swanson S. R.
Published: July 2017

Fiber breakage in a composite laminate can be caused by impact loads. A study was conducted to investigate the effect of internal fiber breakage on the tensile strength of carbon/epoxy laminates. The specimens contained internal fiber cuts, which were considered “buried cracks” in this study. Four layups, [0, ± 45,90,02], [90, ± 45,0]s, [0, ± 68,0, ± 68]s, and [0]l2, were studied. The results showed a significant strength reduction due to the internal fiber cut. Delamination occurred under load adjacent to the internal crack prior to the final fracture, as shown by ultrasonic C-scan inspection and micro-sectioning inspection. The dimensions of the delamination zones were affected by laminate layups and the length of internal cracks. Prediction of the residual strength was attempted using a principal load carrying ply failure criterion in conjunction with a 3-dimensional anisotropic finite element analysis. Laminate failure prediction was based on the behavior of individual plies. The predicted residual strength was in general agreement with measured residual strength over all the laminates and conditions investigated, indicating the applicability of the criterion.
Relation of Interfacial Adhesion to Residual Stress in Carbon Fiber/Epoxy Composites
Authors: Tai David W. L. , Penn L. S.
Published: July 2017

Two types of carbon fiber, one with surface treatment and one without surface treatment, were used to fabricate carbon fiber-reinforced epoxy composites. The relation between the degree of fiber-matrix adhesion and the thermal residual stress developed in the composite was examined. The adhesion for treated and untreated fiber was compared by the interlaminar shear strength of unidirectional laminates; the thermal residual stress was compared by the curvature of unsymmetric laminated beams. The higher degree of adhesion offered by the surface treated fiber resulted in the development of higher residual stress (and strain) in the composite. Transverse ply cracking was examined as a possible cause of the different curvature development in control and experimental unsymmetric beams, but it was found that cracking did not occur. An alternative explanation based on relative displacement at the fiber-matrix interface is described.
Failure Prediction Technique for Compression Loaded Carbon Fibre-Epoxy Laminate with Open Holes
Authors: Soutis C. , Fleck N. A. , Smith P. A.
Published: July 2017

The inplane compressive fracture behaviour of a carbon fibre-epoxy laminate containing a single hole is examined. Failure is due to 0° fibre microbuckling surrounded by delamination. The microbuckled zone initiates at the hole boundary. It extends stably under increasing load before becoming unstable at a critical microbuckle length of 2–3 mm. The damage propagation and failure of the orthotropic laminate is analysed by a cohesive zone model, in which damage around the open hole is represented by a line crack loaded on its faces. Good agreement between experimental and predicted notched strength is observed for the chosen material and lay-up.
Ultrasonic Polar Backscatter Imaging of Transverse Matrix Cracks
Authors: Gorman Michael R.
Published: July 2017

Transverse matrix cracks in [0,90]2 [0,902], and [±45], graphite/epoxy laminates were imaged with a 15 MHz spherically focused transducer which was oriented at 27° from the normal to the plane of the laminate and perpendicular to the fiber direction of the cracked ply. The backscattered signal from the micron wide cracks was two to five times stronger than the backscattered signal from the fibers. Polar backscatter C-scans of the coupon shaped specimens showed the cracks clearly enough to be counted up to a crack density of 8 per centimeter (20 cracks/inch).
Characterization of Forced Convection Heat Transfer in Decomposing, Glass-Filled Polymer Composites
Authors: Florio John , Henderson Jack B. , Test Frederick L. , Hariharan Ramamurthy
Published: July 2017

An experimental study has been conducted to estimate volumetric heat transfer coefficients between product volatiles and the .solid matrix within the tortuous pore network of decomposing glass-filled polymer composites. Two such composite materials, denoted as Haveg H41N and Fiberite MXBE-350, have been studied in this experimental investigation. For both materials, volumetric heal transfer coefficients were measured between argon gas and the pore network of 0.17 cm thick specimens precharred to 25°C (virgin specimens), 500°C, 600°C and 800°C, at several gas flow rates. For H41N, gas pressure drop values ranging from 3.45 times 104 Pa to 1.72 times 105 Pa, for each stage of decomposition, were imposed to create flow through the pore network. Gas pressure drop values for MXBE-350 ranged from 6.89 times 103 Pa to 6.89 times 104 Pa. In both cases the volumetric heat transfer coefficients were found to be dependent on stage of decomposition and gas pressure drop across the specimen, i.e., gas flow rate. This behavior has been modeled using a modified correlation in the form of a Nusselt number as a function of Reynolds number. Correlated and experimental results are presented graphically.
An Expert System for Autoclave Curing of Composites
Authors: Ciriscioli Peter R. , Springer George S. , Lee Woo Il
Published: July 2017

A rule based expert system was developed for controlling the autoclave temperature and pressure during cure of fiber reinforced thermosetting matrix composites. Rules were established which ensure that the temperatures and pressures remain within the required limits, the laminate is fully compacted and fully cured, the void content is minimum, and the residual (curing) stresses are low. The inputs to the expert system are the measured instantaneous autoclave temperature and pressure, the composite midpoint and surface temperatures, composite thickness, and ionic conductivity. These inputs are examined by preestablished rules and, on the basis of decisions dictated by the rules, the autoclave heater, cooler and pressure controllers are adjusted to the appropriate settings. An algorithm was written and hardware was developed for collecting and processing the data, for applying the rules, for making the decisions, and for controlling the autoclave. The software and hardware were integrated into a control system which was validated by simulated as well as actual cures of flat graphite-epoxy laminates ranging in thickness from 0.1 to 6.5 inches. The tests showed that the control system (designated as SECURE) performed all its required functions well, resulted in reduced cure times, and produced laminates whose mechanical properties were as good as those cured by conventional methods.
Effect of Interfacial Thermal Barrier on the Thermal Stresses near Spherical Inclusion in Matrix Subjected to Linear Heat Flow
Authors: Osiroff Ricardo , Hasselman D. P.H.
Published: July 2017

The thermal stresses in the vicinity of a spherical inclusion within a matrix with different thermal and mechanical properties are analyzed for the condition of linear heat flow and the presence of an interfacial thermal barrier. A numerical example indicates that the existence of such a thermal barrier can have a significant effect on both the magnitude as well as sign of the thermal stresses as the result of disturbance of the temperature distribution due to the inclusion. For the case of perfect thermal contact, the results correspond to those obtained by Tauchert. It is also shown that the presence of an interfacial thermal barrier introduces an inclusion size effect on the magnitude of the thermal stresses, in addition to the direct linear dependence of the stresses on inclusion size, regardless of the existence of a thermal barrier.
Interfacial Characterization of SiC Fiber/M-D-F Cement Matrix Composites
Authors: Homeny J. , Hansen D. M.
Published: July 2017

The nature of adhesion at the fiber/matrix interface of modified Nicalon SiC fiber/M-D-F cement matrix composites was investigated. Using a nano-indentation method, in which load-displacement curves were generated from individual fibers, interfacial shear strengths were evaluated. AES and XPS studies were performed on the modified fibers to determine the chemical nature of the fiber surface. The fiber surface chemistry was then correlated to the interfacial shear strengths for each composite.
Pultrusion of Thermoplastics—A Model
Authors: Lee Woo Il , Springer George S. , Smith Frances N.
Published: July 2017

A model is presented describing the pultrusion process of thermoplastic matrix composites. The model provides the temperature, crystallinity, pressure, and consolidation inside the composite along the axis of the die, and the required pulling force. On the basis of the model, a computer code was written that can be used to obtain numerical results. A sample problem is presented illustrating the type of information which can be generated by the code.
Transverse Ply Cracking in Toughened and Untoughened Graphite/Epoxy and Graphite/Polycyanate Crossply Laminates
Authors: Yalvaç Selim , Yats Larry D. , Wetters Derrick G.
Published: July 2017

Transverse ply cracking of five toughened and untoughened graphite/epoxy and graphite/polycyanate laminates was studied using crossply laminates. Two different theoretical approaches, variational mechanics and resistance curves based on shearlag approximation, were used to analyze the data. Resistance of the laminates to transverse ply cracking was determined. Both theories show the same ranking of the laminates with respect to their resistance to microcracking. These results were compared with the critical strain energy release rate data obtained on the resins and the laminates.
Thermal Fatigue Behavior of a Unidirectional SCS6/Ti-15-3 Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Mall S. , Ermer P. G.
Published: July 2017

Damage mechanisms in a unidirectional titanium matrix composite with silicon carbide fibers (SCS6/Ti-15-3) subjected to thermal cycling from 149°C to 427°C and 149°C to 649°C were investigated. The degradation of the reaction zone was the first sign of damage due to thermal cycling. It initiated at 500 cycles and continued to grow with increase of thermal cycles. The Young's modulus, Poisson's ratio and residual tensile strength did not change due to thermal cycling up to 15,000 cycles for both temperature ranges. However, the observed internal damage as the degradation of the reaction zone manifested in the form of linear stress-strain response during residual tensile test. A simplified micromechanics analysis was also conducted to assess the state of stress to interpret the experimentally observed response of the tested metal matrix composite.
Influence of Cure Temperature and Degree of Surface Treatment on Transverse Cracking and Fibre/Matrix Bond Strength in CFRP
Authors: Peters P. W. M.
Published: July 2017

In the scheme of a EURAM-Programme, fibre/matrix bonding in CFRP was investigated as a function of the level of fibre surface treatment and cure temperature. The fibre/matrix bond strength was determined with the aid of a new technique based on transverse cracking in 0/904/0 laminates. A model taken from the literature, which describes transverse cracking as influenced by defects, matrix ductility and constraining effect, is applied to explain the effect of surface treatment in relation to the defect distribution and the bond strength. Further, it is shown that the surface treatment most effectively increases the bond strength if a high cure temperature (190°C) is chosen.
Fracture Behavior of a 3-D Braid Graphite/Epoxy Composite
Authors: Filatovs G. J. , Sadler R. L. , El-Shiekh Aly H. M.
Published: July 2017

An exploratory study of the fracture behavior and notch sensitivity of a 4-step, 3-D braid-reinforced graphite/epoxy composite has been made. Test methods based on the Mode I compact tension specimen were developed and lower bounds for the damage initiating force and the work of fracture were determined for certain notch-to-braid axis orientations. These values are higher than for laminate composites but showed severe anisotropy. Complementary in-situ and post-mortem optical and scanning electron microscopy were used to identify microstructural failure controlling features and to develop a volume-to-surface structural mapping strategy useful in accounting for some of the observed features of the failure process.
Simple Solutions of the Free-Edge Stresses in Composite Laminates under Thermal and Mechanical Loads
Authors: Yin Wan-Lee
Published: July 2017

Intense and localized interlaminar stresses generally occur in a narrow boundary region near the free edge of a multilayered anisotropic laminate under mechanical and temperature loads. Quantitative measures of interlaminar action across interfaces may be readily obtained through purely algebraic operations, even if nonlinear and inelastic material behavior becomes significant in the boundary region due to severe strain concentration. These measures are the limiting values of the Lekhnitskii stress functions F and $$ (and of the normal derivative of F) along interfaces and toward the interior region of the laminate. In the present work, they are used as the basis of an exceedingly simple and efficient method of interlaminar stress analysis that is potentially applicable to free-edge problems involving nonlinear thermoelastic constitutive relations. Example solutions are obtained for symmetric, four-layer, cross-ply and angle-ply laminates under a temperature load and two different types of strain loads, and the results are found to be in reasonable agreement with the existing numerical and analytical solutions based on elaborate analysis methods.
Short Fibre Polymer Composites: a Fracture-Based Theory of Fibre Reinforcement
Authors: Piggott Michael R.
Published: July 2017

The interphase between reinforcing fibers and polymers is brittle, and does not behave in the way it was assumed to when the standard theory for composite strength was developed. Futhermore, this theory predicts curved stress-strain plots for aligned short fibre composites, yet the evidence for this is unconvincing, and there is much new evidence that these stress-strain curves are straight. The time has therefore come to abandon this approach and take into account, instead, the apparent brittleness and sudden failure of aligned fibre reinforced polymers. This paper presents the evidence, and introduces the new approach. This involves microcrack development in composites from stress concentrations at the fibre ends. Since such failure initiation can occur simultaneously at many sites, the stress required to cause abrupt failure across the whole cross section can be estimated by a simple force balance. This analysis gives the familiar expressions used for short fibre composites, with one important difference. For carbon reinforced polymers, the polymer has to reach its breaking strength before failure, so that there is no minimum volume fraction for reinforcement with these composites. With glass, on the other hand, which has a higher breaking strain than most thermosets used for composites, the matrix appears unable to exert its full strength. Thus low fibre volume fraction glass fibre composites can be weaker than the matrix, and a minimum volume fraction for reinforcement exists.
Macro Finite Element for Analysis of Textile Composites
Authors: Whitcomb John , Woo Kyeongsik , Gundapaneni Sitaram
Published: July 2017

The analysis of textile composites is complicated by the complex micro-structure. It is not practical to account for this microstructure directly using traditional finite elements. A new type of finite element was developed to efficiently account for microstructure within a single element. These new elements, which are referred to herein as macro elements, performed well in initial tests.
Slice Compression Tests Versus Fiber Push-In Tests
Authors: Hsueh Chun-Hway
Published: July 2017

Both the fiber push-in and the slice compression tests have been used to evaluate the interfacial properties of fiber-reinforced ceramic composites. Mechanics of sliding at the fiber-matrix interface obtained with these two tests are compared in the present study. While the interfacial radial stress induced by Poisson's effect is always compressive for the push-in test, it is tensile for the slice compression test when the fiber is stiffer than the matrix. This difference in Poisson's effect results in different interfacial frictional resistance between these two tests. Compared to the push-in test, the slice compression test produces a lower frictional resistance along the debonded interface. The interfacial frictional stress during unloading is lower than that during loading for the push-in test, but this trend is reversed for the slice compression test.
Effects on Man of Drenching with Dilute Solutions of o-Chlorobenzylidene Malononitrile (CS) and Dibenz(b.f)-1:4-Oxazepine (CR)
Authors: Ballantyne Bryan , Gall David , Robson Derek C.
Published: July 2017

As one part of a safety evaluation of sensory irritant Materials, observations were made on volunteers drenched with aqueous solutions containing up to 0·005 per cent o-chlorobenzylidene malononitrile (CS) or 0·0025 per cent dibenz(b.f)-1: 4-oxazepine (CR). Such solutions affected the eyes and skin. In the eye there was immediate discomfort, blepharospasm and profuse lachrymation of a few minutes duration; the effects were similar with CS and CR. Skin sensations, described as stinging or burning, appeared later, lasted for up to 20 minutes, and were most severe on the face, back of the trunk and, in males, the external genitalia; the intensity and duration were greater with CR than with CS. During the period of intense skin irritation a rise in blood pressure was measured. Exercise during this period did not produce further increases in blood pressure. The nature of the blood pressure rise is discussed, and evidence presented that it was probably due to the intensely uncomfortable nature of the experience.
Suicide by Fire
Authors: Newton John
Published: July 2017

The case is reported of a young man working as an assistant librarian who had been in hospital for 2 months and managed to leave hospital to set himself on fire by throwing paraffin over himself and setting it alight.
Suicidal Intoxication with Dettol (Chloroxylenol) (A Case Report)
Authors: Coutselinis Antony , Boukis Denis
Published: July 2017

A case of suicidal intoxication with Dettol (chloroxylenol 4·9 per cent) is described in detail. Concentration levels of chloroxylenol in blood and liver are given.
A Stud (Cartridge) Gun Suicide (A Case Report)
Authors: Goonetilleke U. K. D. A.
Published: July 2017

A case of fatal cartridge gun injury is reported. These guns are increasingly used in the building trade and their misuse by inexperienced persons may lead to fatalities. The possibility of their use in homicide must be borne in mind.
Accidental Drowning Ascribed to the Use of an Oral Contraceptive
Authors: Brennan J. L.
Published: July 2017

A case of drowning in a domestic bath is reported in a young woman of 20 years. Although the deceased suffered from petit mal, it was considered that her death was to be ascribed to cerebral ischaemia following the use of an oral contraceptive.
Alcoholism and the Drunkenness Offender in a Scottish Burgh Police Court
Authors: Rix K. J. B. , Buyers Margaret , Fincham Dorothy
Published: July 2017

Fifty males were interviewed following their appearance on charges of drunkenness at a Scottish Burgh Police Court. The sample comprised mainly unemployed Scots from the lower social classes who were either separated from their wives or had never married. There were 5 first offenders and the rest of the sample had previous convictions for drunkenness and/or other minor offences. Twenty-nine were physically dependent on alcohol, 16 had a psychological dependence on alcohol, and the remaining 5 were not alcoholics. Although two-thirds expressed a desire for help, the city was lacking in detoxification, counselling and rehabilitation facilities for alcoholics.
The Interpretation of the Human Tissue Act 1961
Authors: Skegg P. D. G.
Published: July 2017

Section 1 of the Human Tissue Act 1961 is discussed. A hospital authority is lawfully in possession of a corpse which lies in a hospital, at least until such time as the corpse is claimed by the person with the right to immediate possession of it. Even in the absence of a donor card, it is sometimes lawful for parts of a corpse to be removed without the spouse or relatives being consulted.
Female Patients in the Three English Special Hospitals: A Demographic Survey of Admissions 1961–65
Authors: Tennent Gavin , Parker Elizabeth , McGrath Patrick , McDougall Joe , Street David
Published: July 2017

This study examines a series of consecutive first admissions to the three English Special Hospitals, in an attempt to compare the background factors which may differentiate the patients in the different hospitals. It was suggested that Broadmoor female patients differ very considerably from those at Ramtpon and Moss Side, and those at Moss Side somewhat from those at Rampton. An attempt is made to construct a stereotype of the typical patient admitted to each of the hospitals.
Psychiatric Court Reports–Too Many or Too Few?
Authors: Donovan W. M. , O'Brien K. P.
Published: July 2017

This paper describes a project to examine the consistency of criteria that magistrates use to refer defendants for a psychiatric report. Observations were made in a Magistrates' Court by the two authors, independently, on cases which were treated summarily that day. In this way 100 cases were studied.

The observers used the criteria which had been described in previous literature as being used by magistrates to refer cases. It was found that there was no consistent use of criteria and the referrals often appeared to be idiosyncratic—some of the reasons for this are discussed.
Aircrash on Mount Erebus
Authors: Cairns F. J. , Herdson P. B. , Hitchcock G. C. , Koelmeyer T. D. , Smeeton W. M. I. , Synek B. J. L.
Published: July 2017

On 28 November 1979, an Air New Zealand DC10 aircraft, flight TE 901, crashed into the lower slopes of Mount Erebus on Ross Island in Antarctica. All 237 passengers and 20 crew died.

More than 200 bodies and portions of human remains were recovered and these were received, stored and examined in the Department of Pathology at the University of Auckland School of Medicine.

This paper describes the organization set up to deal with the task which resulted in the identification of 213 passengers and crew. In the light of our experience, some recommendations are made for future investigations of this sort.
An Unusual Sequel of Growth Plate Injury
Authors: King J. B.
Published: July 2017

It is well recognized that injuries of any sort in the region of the growth plate may cause disturbance of growth. These injuries are well classified by Salter and Harris (1963) and a certain expectancy is attached to each type of injury.

There are still cases in which apparently minor injury may cause severe growth disturbance. This case illustrates the problem and in addition sheds some light on the normal growth potential of the proximal radial epiphysis.

The final surgical solution illustrates a pitfall in this type of problem.
Matricide by Sons
Authors: Green Christopher M.
Published: July 2017

A study was made of 58 male Broadmoor patients who had killed their mothers. In most cases the homicides occurred in association with a schizophrenic illness. The remaining patients were diagnosed as suffering from endogenous depressions or personality disorders. Within a predominantly psychotic framework, the matricides often appeared to be a response to a close confining mother/son relationship. This was characterized by a dominant mother and an immature, dependent son, who had frequently lost his father some years before the homicide.
The Care of the Psychiatric Prisoner—Discharge into the Community and its Implications
Authors: Prins Herschel
Published: July 2017

Some aspects of the knowledge and skills required for dealing with the psychiatrically disordered offender in the community are identified; for this latter purpose, attention is focused specifically upon those who may have been adjudged to be dangerous in the past or who are thought likely to be dangerous in the future. It is suggested that a knowledge of the world's great literature provides a useful addition to clinical and academic teaching. The importance of team work and good communication is stressed as is the need for socio-forensic workers to identify their blind spots and defences.
A Case of Fatal Electrocution during an Unusual Auto-Erotic Practice
Authors: Tan Clarence T. T. , Chao T. C.
Published: July 2017

A case of fatal electrocution occurring during an unusual auto-erotic practice is described. The circumstances suggest the use of heat for erotic purposes, a practice that has not been previously well documented.

Accidental death from bizarre sexual practices is not common in Singapore. In the countries where such cases have been reported, the most well recognized and documented deaths are sexual asphyxias. Other modes of sexual gratification have from time to time been reported. The use of electricity for auto-erotic purposes has been reported in Europe by Polson and Gee (1973) and recently in Britain by Sivaloganathan (1981). This case suggestsan auto-erotic practice that has hitherto not been well documented.
Sudden Death in an 11-Year-Old Boy Due to Rupture of a Colloid Cyst of the Third Ventricle following ‘Disco-Dancing’
Authors: Torrey John
Published: July 2017

A case is described in which a previously healthy 11-year-old boy attended a ‘disco-dance’ where he indulged in a current craze known as ‘head-banging’. The history can be traced back to this activity. Post-mortem revealed an intra-cerebral haematoma obstructing the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid. Histological techniques indicated that the basic pathology was related to a colloid cyst in the third ventricle.
Estimation of Postmortem Interval from Rectal Temperature by Use of Computer (IV)—Thermal Diffusivity of the Rabbit
Authors: Kuroda Fusakuni , Hiraiwa Kouichi , Oshida Shigemi , Akaishi Suguru
Published: July 2017

The measurement of the postmortem rectal temperature fall is the most reliable procedure for estimation of the postmortem interval within one or two days. The thermal properties of a human corpse, however, are little known when applying the heat transmission theory to the temperature fall of the human corpse, which is assumed to be an infinite cylinder. Therefore, the thermal diffusivity of the whole body of a human corpse should be measured. The nonlinear least square method was thus proposed to measure the thermal diffusivity of the whole body of the human and animals. We needed to verify the reliability of the measurement method before measuring the human corpse. So, the thermal diffusivity of the rabbit was studied in this paper. The values in 5 specimens averaged 0.00036 m2/h, and the variation coefficient was 0.42. This method was considered to be applicable to the human corpse.
Lung Irritance and Inflammation during and after Exposures to Thermal Decomposition Products from Polymeric Materials
Authors: Purser D. A. , Buckley P.
Published: July 2017

A study has been made of the mechanisms of incapacitation resulting from exposure to atmospheres of thermal decomposition products from polymeric materials. Individual cynomolgus monkeys were exposed to atmospheres increasing in separate experiments from very low concentrations until early physiological signs of incapacitation were detected. Atmospheres studied included thermal decomposition products of polyacrylonitrile, polyurethane foam, wood, polypropylene, polystyrene and nylon produced under pyrolytic or oxidative conditions at a range of temperatures. For some atmospheres the toxicity was dominated by signs of upper and lower respiratory tract irritance, which consisted of dyspnoea and hyperventilation during exposure. The condition of the animals appeared normal within 1–2 hours after exposure, but following exposures to atmospheres from 2 materials, flexible polyurethane foam and polypropylene, signs of late lung inflammatory responses similar to those occurring in some human fire survivors were observed 15–48 hours after exposure.
A Possible Index of Fatal Drug Toxicity in Humans
Authors: King L. A. , Moffat A. C.
Published: July 2017

The ratio of the number of deaths associated with a given drug to the number of prescriptions for that drug provides a measure of fatal toxicity in humans. This index (T) has been obtained for 47 drugs commonly encountered in fatalities in England and Wales. It is shown that T is often closely related to the corresponding fatal toxicity in animals (LD50), and to physico-chemical factors which are known to be correlated with other measures of human drug toxicity. In general, T is a measure of the probability of a fatal outcome following the use of a particular drug.
Thinner Abuse and Aspermia
Authors: Suzuki T. , Kashimura S. , Umetsu K.
Published: July 2017

A 28-year-old male, addicted for 10 years to thinner inhalation, developed a transitory hallucinatory state and slight behavioural disturbances, and died from excessive sniffing. Autopsy disclosed not only diffuse cerebral and cerebellar cortex atrophy, mild liver disease and testicles with faulty or suppressed spermatogenesis. This case suggests that in alleged rape cases when the laboratory examination for vaginal secretions is positive for prostatic acid phosphatase determination without sperm, chronic thinner abuse may also account for the lack of sperm in the vaginal smears like other congenital or aquired etiologic factors causing aspermia or oligospermia.
The Effects of Low Doses of Alcohol on Driving Performance
Authors: Flanagan N. G. , Phil P. W. Strike M , Rigby C. J. , Lochridge G. K.
Published: July 2017

A series of 164 controlled driving tests were monitored in an attempt to identify changes in driving performance after low doses of alcohol. The performance of volunteer drivers under fairly realistic conditions was compared before and after alcohol intake. A significant deterioration was found at a time when a control group showed improvement. The authors feel that this study raises some further questions about the validity of the 80 mgms/100 ml legal limit for driving.
A Regional Interim Secure Unit at the Bethlem Royal Hospital—The First Fourteen Months
Authors: Gudjonsson Gisli H. , MacKeith James A. C.
Published: July 2017

A fifteen-bed interim secure unit at the Bethlem Royal Hospital has been functioning since October 1980. During the first 14 months 23 patients were admitted; 16 were males and 7 were females. All had committed dangerous acts but very few had a long history of criminal behaviour. The most common diagnosis was schizophrenia. Personality disorder was not a predominant feature in the majority of cases. Generally the aim is not to provide a full rehabilitation programme but rather to emphasize assessment and treatment of ‘problem behaviour’ until such time as an individual could properly be managed in an ordinary psychiatric unit in one of the local specialized ‘area clinics’. The Bethlem Unit may therefore differ somewhat in its function to that reported by other secure units. There was seldom a simple and direct relationship found between the mental illness and the ‘problem behaviour’. Treatment includes, occupational therapy, social skills training, individual treatment programmes and psychotropic medication. The average stay has been less than 7 months.
The English Special Hospital—A 12–17 Year Follow-up Study: A Comparison of Violent and Non-Violent Re-Offenders and Non-Offenders
Authors: Tennent Gavin , Way Cynthia
Published: July 2017

As part of a more general follow-up study of men admitted to English special hospitals during the period 1961–65 and who left the hospitals before 1 January 1978, comparisons were made between those who subsequently were convicted of violent offences, those who offended non-violently, and those who did not offend at all. Pre-admission and post-discharge behaviour was examined and differences were found to exist between all three groups on a number of variables.
Dilute the Poison—A Case of Fatal Water Intoxication
Authors: Sarvesvaran R.
Published: July 2017

A healthy 40-year-old housewife inadvertently drank from a cup containing bleach. When she telephoned two separate medical units she was advised to drink plenty of water. She followed this advice literally until she developed water intoxication and subsequently died. Symptoms, signs and diagnosis of water intoxication are described. This case illustrates the care needed when medical advice is given by telephone.
Bushfires in Australia—A Historical Perspective
Authors: Pounder Derrick J.
Published: July 2017

Australia, like North America, has the natural potential for large bushfires and these were a regular feature of the Australian scene long before European settlement began in 1788. The early nineteenth century saw the introduction of regulations restricting the lighting and use of fires during the bushfire season. Disastrous fires were followed by accelerated government support for the development of fire-fighting organizations. Over the past 150 years the state of Victoria has suffered about half of the country's economic damage from bushfires. The 1983 bushfire disaster claimed 48 lives in Victoria and 28 lives in South Australia. The expansion of the Adelaide Hills as a commuter zone for Adelaide is one important factor in the conversion of South Australia's previously low bushfire mortality pattern into a high mortality pattern similar to that of Victoria.
Estimation of Stature from Parts of Ulna and Tibia
Authors: Mysorekar V. R. , Nandedkar A. N. , Sarma T. C. S. R.
Published: July 2017

One hundred and sixty four right and 187 left, dry, fully ossified human ulnae have been studied to derive regression formulae for the establishment of the total length of the ulna from the upper and lower segments, the line of division between the segments being the lowest level of insertion of the brachialis muscle.

Also, 175 right and 179 left, dry, fully ossified tibiae have been studied to derive regression formulae for establishment of the total length of the tibia from the upper and lower segments, the line of division being the lower limit of the soleal line.

All the formulae derived are statistically highly significant and have a high degree of prediction, and are valuable in establishing the stature of an individual.
Cerebral Infarction Presenting as an Extradural Haemorrhage (Case Report)
Authors: Chandrasiri Niriellage
Published: July 2017

A case of cerebral embolism with infarction presenting as an intra cranial space occupying lesion is described. This is a rare sequel of cerebral infarction. This case highlights some of the false physical signs of a rapidly developing rise in intra cranial pressure and the falsity of the history of fall after an attack of cerebral infarction. The place of emergency carotid angiography and brain scan is also discussed in the accurate diagnosis of such cases.
Post-Mortem Pink Teeth
Authors: Clark D. H. , Law Marion
Published: July 2017

One hundred coroners' cases were examined for the presence of post-mortem pink teeth. Four cases were found. The pink teeth were subjected to biochemical analysis by means of thin layer chromatography and spectral analysis in an attempt to isolate the compound causing the discoloration. The compound isolated from powdered pink dentine was found to be protoporphyrin. The reason why this phenomenon occurs in some cases and not in others suffering identical forms of violent death remains unsolved at present.
Observations on the Vascular Pattern of the Septum of Normal and Hypertrophied Human Hearts
Authors: Odesanmi W. O.
Published: July 2017

The arterial vascular pattern of the myocardium of the interventricular septum of normal and hypertrophied human hearts was studied by post-mortem injection of a radio-opaque medium, Colourpaque, and the taking of microradiographs of transverse ventricular slices using the immersion technique.

There were large penetrating septal arteries arising from the anterior and posterior descending coronary arteries. The arterial vascular pattern on each side of the septum closely resembled the respective patterns in the right and left ventricular free walls. In the hypertrophied hearts the branching and straight type arteries were of smaller calibre compared to normal hearts and were smallest in the greatly hypertrophied hearts and hearts with asymmetrical left ventricular hypertrophy.

The role of the septal intercoronary anastomosis in coronary artery disease is discussed.
Esterase D Polymorphism in Indians: Stability Studies in Bloodstains
Authors: Sachdeva M. P. , Arora V. K. , Bhalla V.
Published: July 2017

One hundred and twenty bloodstains of a heterogeneous population have been successfully typed for the esterase D enzyme. Stability studies of the enzyme in bloodstains stored at room temperature and in lysates stored at —20°C and 4°C have been carried out. Frequencies of EsD phenotypes in Indian populations have also been worked out.
The Psychiatric Aspects of Murder and Attempted Murder in Jordan (1976–85)
Authors: Daradkeh Tewfik K.
Published: July 2017

In Jordan, 1274 cases of suspected murder and attempted murder were recorded from 1976–85. Males accounted for 95 per cent for murder and 98 per cent for attempted murder. Males were victimized twice as often as females in the crime of murder and five times as often in the crime of attempted murder. The commonest age group of offenders and their victims was 18–27 years. Though the annual homicide rate was found to be 1.8 per 100000 population, mentally abnormal offenders accounted for only 2–9 per cent of the total offenders group. Possible reasons for the higher homicide rate and lower percentage of abnormal offenders are discussed.
The Importance of Previous Convictions in Assessing Criminal Motivation – The Need for Detail
Authors: Prins Herschel
Published: July 2017

Full details of an offender's previous convictions are not customarily available to those who have to try to predict the possibility of future dangerous behaviour. It is suggested that such information might enhance the quality of prediction; some illustrations are offered in support of this contention.
Brain Contusions: The Time Sequence of the Histological Changes
Authors: Løberg Else Marit , Torvik Ansgar
Published: July 2017

Microscopical sections from 65 cases with brain contusions of known age were studied in order to obtain histological data for age determination of the lesions.

The earliest histological alterations were observed within one hour after the lesion and they changed in an orderly fashion over the following hours, days and weeks (Figure 1). It is concluded that the age of brain contusions can be determined with reasonable accuracy from routinely stained histological sections.
Trends in Fatal Poisonings in Leeds, 1977 to 1987
Authors: Crowe M. T. I.
Published: July 2017

The records of all deaths due to poisoning investigated by the Leeds University Department of Forensic Medicine, over an eleven-year period between 1977 and 1987, were studied. There were 422 cases consisting of 208 males and 214 females. Two of these cases were homicidal in nature (both were unconnected cases of children poisoned with amitriptyline). Only 12 were accidental and the rest either suicidal or para-suicidal. More than 20% of cases had recorded blood ethanol levels greater than the legal driving limit of 80 mg of alcohol per 100 ml of blood. The results show a steady decrease in the number of deaths from poisoning over this period, due mainly to falls in self-poisonings from barbiturates and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Curiously, the number of carbon monoxide poisonings was the same in 1987 as 1977. Some interesting trends and sex variations have also been highlighted.
Plasma and Urine Catecholamines and Cerebrospinal Fluid Amine Metabolites as Hypothermia Markers in Guinea-Pigs
Authors: Hirvonen Jorma , Lapinlampi Tuomo
Published: July 2017

Changes in catecholamines (CA) in the plasma and urine and metabolites of CA and serotonin (5-HT) in the cerebrospinal fluid of guinea-pigs in hypothermia (Trec*** 30°C) and after subsequent rewarming were determined with HPLC in order to obtain data on early stress reactions and their timing. Both noradrenaline (NA) and adrenaline (A) were low in the plasma but high in the urine after the hypothermic period. These had normalized in the plasma after rewarming but were still high in the urine. Dopamine values tended to be low (not significant). Methoxyhydroxyphenylglycol and homovanilic acid were elevated in the cerebrospinal fluid both after hypothermia and following rewarming, and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid after rewarming. The ratio of adrenaline to noradrenaline, the catecholamine hypothermia index, in the urine had risen 24-fold after hypothermia and 40-fold after rewarming. The results support the view that elevated catecholamine concentrations in the urine and elevated values of their metabolities in the cerebrospinal fluid could be regarded as hypothermia markers. However, other stress conditions, which have lasted at least a few hours, should be excluded in the final interpretation.
Estimation of Chronological Age from Different Body Segments in Boys and Girls Aged 4–19 Years, Using Anthropometric and Photogrammetric Techniques
Authors: Attallah N. Louis , Marshall W. A.
Published: July 2017

Data obtained from measuring different body segments (stature, sitting height, upper limb, upper arm, forearm, leg, hand and foot length), were used to construct equations for estimating the chronological age of children with unknown date of birth. About 18,510 sets of measurements were taken on boys and 11,568 sets on girls. All were healthy British children aged 4–19 years and participating in three longitudinal studies at the Department of Growth and Development, Institute of Child Health, University of London.

Both anthropometric and photogrammetric techniques of measurement were used to construct 35 anthropometric and 49 photogrammetric equations using the multiple linear regression model. These equations give the most likely estimated value for age together with its error. The accuracy of the equations and its applicability both on live children and on postmortem material is discussed.
An Unusual Shotgun Slug Injury
Authors: Ikeda N. , Harada A. , Suzuki T.
Published: July 2017

A fatal case with an unusual shotgun slug injury caused by an accidental discharge of a shotgun used in hunting bear is reported. The slug is old-fashioned, and is no longer on the market. Some old hunters, however, still possess such shotgun slugs, and the possibility of their use must be borne in mind.
Serum Strontium Estimation as a Medico-Legal Diagnostic Indicator of Drowning
Authors: Piette M. , Timperman J. , Parisis N.
Published: July 2017

In order to corroborate the medico-legal diagnosis of vital submersion we reviewed the appropriate literature and tested Icard's initial hypothesis, already expressed in 1932, that Strontium might be a good indicator of sea-water drowning. Therefore, we examined all the bodies found either in fresh or in sea-water, and also non-drowned control cases. Strontium concentrations in both cardiac cavities and in a peripheral blood-vessel were determined by flameless atomic absorption spectrophotometry. The statistical evaluation of the results is hereby presented. We come to the conclusion that this determination can be a valuable additional proof for sea-water drowning diagnosis, whilst freshwater drowning would be more difficult to assess. Further investigations are being undertaken.