bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Shot Through the Window
Authors: Burnett BR
Published: August 2015

At issue in this case was whether an unusual window defect seen in two of the crime scene photographs was due to a bullet and if so, if that same bullet fatally wounded the victim. The window appeared to have been cracked prior to the apparent shot through it. A .22 bullet recovered from autopsy, when examined only by light microscopy, failed to show associated glass fragments.

A previously cracked test window was shot a number of times with .22 caliber bullets near the cracks in an effort to simulate the window defect seen in the crime scene photographs. Several of the defects produced by the test window shots appeared similar to the crime scene window defect.

The .22 bullet taken from the victim and several of the test bullets (collected by a cotton box) were examined by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The test bullets showed glass particles on and embedded in their surfaces. Particles of similar size and composition were found embedded in the surface of the bullet from the victim. The bullet likely struck the window prior to hitting the victim.

It was apparent by the morphology of some of the mushroomed test .22 bullets that they hit the window crack. These bullets showed that the glass on one side of a crack often fails before the other side during the strike. Aggregations of powdered glass on many of the mushroomed surfaces of the .22 bullets suggest that as the bullet mushrooms during impact on the window surface, the glass in contact with the bullet powderizes and coats the mushroomed surface of the bullet with a layer of fine glass particles.
Suicidal Ligature Strangulation: Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: McMaster AR , Ward EW , Dykeman A , Warman MD
Published: August 2015

An unusual case of suicidal ligature strangulation is described. The victim is a 42-year-old white male who devised a very elaborate ligature mechanism comprised of thin wire, a plastic tub filled with water, and a combination of other common objects to commit suicide while in custody. A brief review of the literature follows.
Fatal Cranial Injuries Caused by an Electric Angle Grinder
Authors: Telmon N , Allery J-P , Scolan V , Rougé D
Published: August 2015

A case of fatal cranial injuries caused by an angle grinder is reported. The scalp lesions were typical of those produced by a cutting disk in a side-slipping movement. On the cranial vault were two bony losses of substance, one of which was deep enough for intracranial penetration of the disk. Signs of deflection of the disk, identical to those found on the scalp, were observed on the external bony table. Because of the circumstances in which the victim was discovered, in particular the damage to the machine which had a broken handle, and the lack of any indication of homicide or suicide, an accident is the most likely hypothesis.
Sudden Death Due to Primary Diffuse Leptomeningeal Gliomatosis
Authors: Havlik DM , Becher MW , Nolte KB
Published: August 2015

Tumors of the central nervous system are an unusual cause of sudden death. This report describes the sudden death of a presumed healthy 28-year-old woman from primary diffuse leptomeningeal gliomatosis. She presented to an emergency room with headache and vomiting, subsequently became unresponsive and was pronounced dead 14 h later. Autopsy revealed a diffuse extensive infiltrate of well-differentiated astrocytoma in the leptomeninges of the brain and spinal cord without an underlying parenchymal tumor. Primary diffuse leptomeningeal gliomatosis is a rare tumor that arises within the leptomeninges from small neuroglial heterotopic rests that undergo neoplastic transformation. Grossly, this tumor can mimic leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, pachymeningitis, tuberculosis, sarcoidosis, and fungal infections. However, the histologic features of primary diffuse leptomeningeal gliomatosis should allow it to be readily distinguished from grossly similar conditions. The mechanism of death in this case is most likely tumor obstruction of cerebrospinal fluid outflow resulting in the usual complications seen with increased intracranial pressure. Although this tumor is aggressive and is associated with a rapidly progressive fatal course, it has not been previously associated with sudden death.
Post-Traumatic Left Ventricular False Aneurysm
Authors: Veinot JP , Acharya V
Published: August 2015

Most false aneurysms of the heart represent contained ventricular free wall ruptures after myocardial infarction. Post-traumatic aneurysms also may follow penetrating or non-penetrating trauma to the chest. Regardless of the origin of the false aneurysm there is a propensity for aneurysm rupture.

We report a patient who developed a false aneurysm of her left ventricle that developed post-motor vehicle accident. Her orthopedic problems were the clinical problems identified and after a hospital admission of 10 days she was discharged home. Four weeks later she died suddenly from anterior left ventricle false aneurysm rupture and tamponade. Patients with significant chest wall trauma should be assessed for cardiac pathology prior to discharge. Presentation may be delayed and be overshadowed by more evident pathology.

Trauma-related aneurysms may cause sudden death, and this may occur some later time after the trauma. Attributing the cause of death to the trauma, which may be remote, is important for the forensic investigator to remember.
Death Due to Microvascular Occlusion in Sickle-Cell Trait Following Physical Exertion
Authors: Wirthwein DP , Spotswood SD , Barnard JJ , Prahlow JA
Published: August 2015

The heterozygous condition characterized by the presence of hemoglobin AS (sickle-cell trait) occurs in approximately 8% of the American black population. Unlike the homozygous state (sickle-cell disease), sickle-cell trait is not widely recognized as a cause of life-threatening illness or death despite over 30 case reports describing fatal or serious complications of exercise in young black males with this condition. These reports identify heat stress, dehydration, viral illness, and poor physical conditioning as factors which may contribute to exertional rhabdomyolysis and sudden death, suggesting multifactorial etiology. However, since sickling is known to occur postmortem, it remains controversial as to whether the pathogenesis of these exercise related deaths involves microvascular obstruction by sickled erythrocytes. We describe three young black individuals with no significant past medical history who died following physical exertion. In all three cases, postmortem hemoglobin electrophoresis demonstrated hemoglobin AS. In none of the cases was the body temperature found to be elevated. These cases serve to remind the forensic community that, in the proper setting, sickle-cell trait must be viewed as a potentially fatal disorder.
Carnivore Voiding: A Taphonomic Process with the Potential for the Deposition of Forensic Evidence
Authors: Pickering TR
Published: August 2015

Carnivore defecation and regurgitation are taphonomic processes that create discrete concentrations of bone pieces and soft tissue fragments of animals that have been consumed. Experiments in which baboon carcasses were fed to leopards and spotted hyenas demonstrate that primate metapodials and phalanges are well represented as readily identifiable specimens in such scat concentrations. Most often phalanges are recovered from scat as whole, articulated digit units (composed of the proximal through distal phalanges) still covered with ligaments, intact skin and finger/toe nails. Considering the very basic similarities between baboon and human physiques, the potential applications of these findings to human forensic cases are significant. Fingers and toes possess features, including fingerprints and, sometimes, distinctive finger and toe rings, useful in the identification of human bodies.
Sudden Unexpected Death in a Patient with Splenic Sequestration and Sickle Cell-β+-thalassemia Syndrome
Authors: Hutchins KD , Ballas SK , Phatak D , Natarajan GA
Published: August 2015

Acute splenic sequestration crisis is a rare disorder that usually occurs in children, with sickle cell anemia, who are under the age of five years. A few cases have been described in adults with heterozygous sickle cell syndromes. Though this entity can be fatal there have been no reported cases associated with sudden death. We describe a case of sudden, unexpected death, associated with splenic sequestration, in a 29-year-old African-American man with undiagnosed sickle cell-β+-thalassemia syndrome.
Allele Frequency Distributions for Four VNTR Loci in the Chinese Han Population
Authors: Wu MY , Sun GY , Huang DX , Zhang L , Chen YB
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequency Distributions for Four VNTR Loci in the Chinese Han Population
Distribution of HumHPRTB and HumF13A01 Alleles in Buenos Aires Population (Argentina)
Authors: Gangitano DA , Garófalo MG , Juvenal GJ , Budowle B , Padula RA
Published: August 2015

Distribution of HumHPRTB and HumF13A01 Alleles in Buenos Aires Population (Argentina)
Building Faces from Dry Skulls: Are They Recognized Above Chance Rates?
Authors: Stephan CN , Henneberg M
Published: August 2015

Methods of facial approximation have successfully aided the identification of deceased individuals. Successes may be due to either accurate facial approximation techniques or chance. This study aims to determine if any of 16 facial approximations, built using standard techniques, are sufficiently accurate to produce correct identifications of target individuals above chance. Four skulls were approximated using four commonly used methods of facial approximation. The resulting 16 facial approximations were judged by 37 assessors of varying ages. Assessors attempted to identify the target individual of each facial approximation from a face pool of ten photographed faces. Only one facial approximation resulted in true positive identification rates above chance at statistically significant levels. It is concluded that it is rare for facial approximations to be sufficiently accurate to allow identification of a target individual above chance. Since 403 incorrect identifications were made out of 592 identification scenarios, facial approximation should be considered to be a highly inaccurate and unreliable forensic technique. These results suggest that facial approximations are not very useful in excluding individuals to whom skeletal remains may not belong. Evidence from this experiment supports suggestions by others that facial approximation should be used in forensic science when all other methods of identification have failed and only to provide tentative identification.
Comparative Analysis of Lubricants Used for Weapons
Authors: Johansson PJ , Myhrinder KTR , Pernilla Gunnarson E , Borén H
Published: August 2015

A method for analysis and comparison of mineral oil-based greases thickened with a metal soap is presented. The greases are first analyzed with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). This analysis differentiates between greases with different main constitutents. When two samples can not be differentiated with IR, a more thorough analysis has to be performed. The base oil and the soap are separated. The soap is derivatized and the two components are each analyzed with gas chromatography. The metal ions of the soap are analyzed with scanning electron microscopy with an energy dispersive X-ray detector (SEM-EDX). By the method presented, grease from a weapon may be differentiated or proven to be identifical to grease collected from a suspect. As the results indicate that the grease does not change with respect to composition when the weapon is fired, the method may be used in many cases. The application of the method to an authentic case is reported.
A New Triplex STR System Without Irregular Alleles by Silver Staining and Its Potential Application to Forensic Analysis
Authors: Yoshimoto T , Yamamoto T , Uchihi R , Tamaki K , Huang X-L , Mizutani M , Tanaka M , Armour JAL , Katsumata Y
Published: August 2015

In order to increase the discriminating power of DNA analysis in forensic science, we devised a new triplex STR system using three novel STR loci we previously reported, D14S299 (wg1c5), D15S233 (wg1d1), and 9q2h2. We designated this system a CDH triplex system. The CDH triplex system showed a high discriminating power, especially in Caucasians. This system is composed of three STR loci showing only regular tetranucleotide repeat alleles. We easily enlarged the databases mainly of Japanese, using this system, and compared them with those of Caucasian and Chinese. This CDH triplex system therefore appears to be useful for forensic practice.
CODIS STR Loci Data from 41 Sample Populations
Authors: Budowle B , Shea B , Niezgoda S , Chakraborty R
Published: August 2015

Allele distributions for 12 or 13 CODIS core tetrameric short tandem repeat (STR) loci CSF1PO, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, D21S11, FGA, TH01, TPOX, and vWA were determined in 41 population data sets. The major population groups comprise African Americans, U.S. Caucasians, Hispanics, Far East Asians, and Native Americans. There was little evidence for departures from Hardy-Weinberg expectations (HWE) in any of the populations. The FST estimates over all thirteen STR loci are 0.0006 for African Americans, −0.0005 for Caucasians, 0.0021 for Hispanics, 0.0039 for Asians, and 0.0282 for Native Americans.
Simultaneous Analysis of Cocaalkaloids and Sugars in Illicit Cocaine Using Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Ishii H , Morishita M , Yamad H , Iwasa S , Yajima T
Published: August 2015

Most illicit cocaine is adulterated with other substances such as sugars and polyhydric alcohols or local anesthestics. Various sugars have been detected in seized cocaine. Analysis of sugars, polyhydric alcohols, and cocaalkaloids yields helpful information that aids in identification of the sample seized as well as the possible route of sales. We analyzed illicit cocaine directly using capillary electrophoresis. As a result, we were able to separate and detect sugars and polyhydric alcohols and cocaalkaloids using a combination of Micelle electrokinetic chromatography (MEKC) and indirect UV detection.
Quantitative Analysis of Capsaicinoids in Fresh Peppers, Oleoresin Capsicum and Pepper Spray Products
Authors: Reilly CA , Crouch DJ , Yost GS
Published: August 2015

Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to identify and quantify the predominant capsaicinoid analogues in extracts of fresh peppers, in oleoresin capsicum, and pepper sprays. The concentration of capsaicinoids in fresh peppers was variable. Variability was dependent upon the relative pungency of the pepper type and geographical origin of the pepper. Nonivamide was conclusively identified in the extracts of fresh peppers, despite numerous reports that nonivamide was not a natural product. In the oleoresin capsicum samples, the pungency was proportional to the total concentration of capsaicinoids and was related by a factor of approximately 15,000 Scoville Heat Units (SHU)/µg of total capsaicinoids. The principle analogues detected in oleoresin capsicum were capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin and appeared to be the analogues primarily responsible for the pungency of the sample. The analysis of selected samples of commercially available pepper spray products also demonstrated variability in the capsaicinoid concentrations. Variability was observed among products obtained from different manufacturers as well as from different product lots from the same manufacturer. These data indicate that commercial pepper products are not standardized for capsaicinoid content even though they are classified by SHU. Variability in the capsaicinoid concentrations in oleoresin capsicum-based self-defense weapons could alter potency and ultimately jeopardize the safety and health of users and assailants.
Improvised Explosive Devices: Pipe Bombs
Authors: Oxley JC , Smith JL , Resende E , Rogers E , Strobel RA , Bender EC
Published: August 2015

The fragments from 56 pipe bombs were collected (average recovery 87%), counted, weighed, sorted, and photographed. The matrix examined included eight energetic fillers, two initiation systems, three types of pipe, and several degrees of fill. The matrix and results are summarized in Table 1. For identical devices, the overall fragmentation pattern was surprisingly reproducible. The fragmentation patterns are presented in photos, but they are also reduced to numerical evaluators. A particularly useful evaluator is the fragment weight distribution map (FWDM) which describes explosive power with a single variable—the slope. This value is independent of device size and percent recovery. We believe this database of 56 pipe bombs is the largest controlled study of these devices. This study demonstrates the possibility that, even in circumstances where chemical residue cannot be found, sufficient evidence is present in the pipe fragments to identify the nature of the energetic filler.
Physical and Chemical Evidence Remaining After the Explosion of Large Improvised Bombs. Part 3: Firings of Calcium Carbonate Ammonium Nitrate/Sugar
Authors: Monsfield AM , Marshall M , Walker CL , Hubbard P
Published: August 2015

The collection of both physical and chemical evidence from the scene of a large bomb can be useful in determining the type of explosive charge used and also its approximate size. A shortage of practical experience of such explosives on a large scale can hinder the collection and interpretation of such evidence. Six charges of calcium carbonate (limestone) ammonium nitrate/sugar (LAN/S) improvised explosive devices were fired (three at 454 kg and three at 2268 kg) together with one charge of 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT, 454 kg) and one charge of ammonium nitrate fuel oil (ANFO, 2268 kg). The charges were surrounded by vehicles, roadsigns, and lampposts that acted as witness material to provide both physical and chemical evidence. Analyses showed that ammonium, higher levels of nitrate, and some sugars were recovered from the LAN/S firings; low levels of nitrate from the ANFO firing; significant levels of TNT from the TNT firing. Levels of recovery generally decreased with increasing distance from the charge. The pattern of physical damage to the witness pieces at given distances from the charge was recorded. The velocities of detonations were measured and the corresponding TNT equivalence calculated.
Gunshot Residue Analysis by Micellar Electrokinetic Capillary Electrophoresis: Assessment for Application to Casework. Part I
Authors: Northrop DM
Published: August 2015

Usually gunshot residue (GSR) analysis examines samples for the presence of inorganic primer compounds, in particular lead (Pb), barium (Ba), and antimony (Sb). Alternative methods are needed because of the advent of primers that do not contain these metals. Micellar electrokinetic capillary electrophoresis (MECE) has been used to examine characteristic organic gunpowder components (COGC), including nitroglycerin (NG). diphenylamine (DPA), ethylcentralite (EC), and others. The purpose of this project was to develop MECE for implementation in GSR casework. In order to do this, it was necessary to: (a) establish a sample collection and preparation method for use with both MECE and scanning electron microscopy (SEM); (b) determine that the minimum detection limits for COGC were in the picogram range; (c) show that no residues were identified in samples from the general population at or above these levels; and (d) quantitatively identify the common chemicals used in more than 100 commercially available ammunitions and reloading powders. Results from the study covering organic GSR persistence, environmental exposure effects, comparison to SEM results, and casework using both CE and SEM are described in a subsequent paper.
Gunshot Residue Analysis by Micellar Electrokinetic Capillary Electrophoresis: Assessment for Application to Casework. Part II
Authors: Northrop DM
Published: August 2015

Micellar electrokinetic capillary electrophoresis has been used to examine characteristic organic gunpowder compounds, including nitroglycerin, diphenylamine, ethylcentralite, and others. The purpose of this project was to develop MECE for implementation in gunshot residue casework. Studies were designed to provide data for evaluating casework samples. The first study compared the results of MECE analysis of organic gunshot residues (O-GSR) from firing range samples, to SEM results for inorganic GSR (I-GSR). MECE analysis found detectable O-GSR for each caliber of weapon examined except for the .22 caliber weapon. SEM analysis confirmed the presence of I-GSR in selected samples where O-GSR was identified by MECE, as well as vaporous lead for the .22 caliber sample. Repetitive firing experiments demonstrated that detectable O-GSR were not deposited each time the same weapon was fired under the same conditions. This leads to the conclusion that residue deposition mechanisms and collection efficiency significantly effect the outcome of O-GSR analyses. Another study found that detectable O-GSR do not persist for more than an hour after firing (under the conditions examined). Decomposition of O-GSR from environmental exposure occurs at a rate that is slow compared to residue persistence, thus, the value of O-GSR composition is not compromised by short term exposure. However, since time dependent changes do not occur, time of firing determinations cannot be made from this data. Finally, casework samples from the hands of suspected shooters and from victims' clothing were examined for O-GSR and I-GSR, O-GSR and I-GSR were identified on some of the samples. MECE has been found to be a potentially valuable tool in the examination of GSR evidence for characteristic organic gunpowder compounds.
Analysis of Distortion in Preserved Bite Mark Skin
Authors: Rothwell BR , Thien AV
Published: August 2015

In addition to other methods for conservation of bite mark evidence, preservation of actual skin from deceased victims is often suggested. This study was undertaken to analyze the dimensional stability of such specimens. Utilizing a prefabricated template, marks approximating “bites” were made in postmortem skin of Miniature Hanford pigs, producing imprints with distinct margins and indentations. Tissue samples were stored in 10% formalin after affixing an acrylic support ring with cyanoacrylate adhesive and sutures. Measurements of the six tooth mark analogues and cross-arch dimensions were taken at intervals of up to 38 days.

Data from these measurements indicate a wide range of amount and type of distortion in preserved tissue. Although some samples were dimensionally stable, there was both contraction and expansion of bite mark specimens, even within individual skin samples. It appears that standard techniques for storage and preservation of bite mark samples will not produce reliable dimensional accuracy.
Criminals' Explanations of Their Criminal Behavior, III: The Effects of Time and Context
Authors: Harry B , Molitor J , Hewett J , Reid J
Published: August 2015

The authors looked at the explanations for their index of violent crimes as given by 69 incarcerated violent male offenders, respectively. We then examined the extent to which those explanations changed with the passing of time and with change in context. We found that explanations of impaired internal control increased with the passing of time, and that such explanation was given more often to mental health professionals rather than law enforcement professionals. Finally, we found that our subjects tended to give mental health professionals fewer explanations involving external control with the passing of time.
Delusional Misidentification and Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Arturo Silva J , Leong GB , Weinstock R , Ruiz-Sweeney M
Published: August 2015

Alzheimer's disease has been associated with serious behavioral disturbances including aggressive behaviors and agitation. Aggression in dementia of the Alzheimer's type may be associated with psychotic symptoms, particularly delusional misidentification phenomena. These phenomena are complex and varied in Alzheimer's disease and so far have been only rudimentarily described. In this paper, we explore the association of delusional misidentification and aggression in an individual suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
Combined Homicide-Suicide in Galveston County
Authors: Felthous AR , Hempel AG , Heredia A , Freeman E , Goodness K , Holzer C , Bennett TJ , Korndorffer WE
Published: August 2015

Combined homicide-suicides have been classified based on the psychopathology of the perpetrator and the nature of the relationship between perpetrator and victim(s). To further understand the nature of this tragic phenomenon and to test the validity and practicality of a previously suggested classification system, investigators systematically collected data on all combined homicide-suicide events that occurred in Galveston County, Texas over a continuous 18-year period (n = 20). The most common psychopathological finding for perpetrators was high serum alcohol levels that suggested intoxication. Most combined homicide-suicides fell into one of the relational categories and most of these, as predicted, were of the consortial type, possessive subtype. As expected, due to the small sample size, the less common types of combined homicide-suicide were not represented in this sample.
Frequency of Bone Lesions: An Inadequate Criterion for Gunshot Wound Diagnosis in Skeletal Remains
Authors: Lorin de la Grandmaison G , Brion F , Durigon M
Published: August 2015

A retrospective study was carried out on 130 fatalities due to gunshot wounds to determine whether the combined absence of bone damage and projectile in a skeleton is sufficient to eliminate a diagnosis of gunshot wound. Our findings showed that bone lesions were present in about 90% of the cases and were associated with intracorporeal projectile(s) in about 70% of the cases. The presence or absence of bone lesions seemed independent of the gun characteristics, the shot conditions, and the type of death. The cause of death was predominantly brain injury in cases with bone lesions whereas thoracic, abdominal, and peripheral vascular causes were more frequently encountered in cases without bone damage. We concluded that the combined absence of bone lesions and intracorporeal projectile (about 5% in our series) cannot exclude a diagnosis of death secondary to gunshot wounds.
Immunohistochemical Contribution to the Study of Morphine Metabolism in Calliphoridae Larvae and Implications in Forensic Entomotoxicology
Authors: Bourel B , Fleurisse L , Hédouin V , Cailliez J-C , Creusy C , Gosset D , Lee Goff ML
Published: August 2015

Morphine was detected by immunohistochemistry on sections of third stage larvae of Calliphora vomitoria (Diptera, Calliphoridae) reared on minced beef meat previously treated with morphine hydrochloride. The detection was performed with an avidin-biotin-peroxidase-complex method. Positive specimens showed specific staining of the haemolymph and a more intense immunoreaction in an area located at the limit between exocuticle and endocuticle. These results constitute an evidence of morphine accumulation inside the cuticle of Diptera larvae during their development. During the pupariation, the larval cuticle is transformed into the sclerotized puparium. This study consequently points out the possibilities of analyzing empty pupariae when suitable tissues or living necrophagous insects are absent.
Determination of Drug Levels in Two Species of Necrophagous Coleoptera Reared on Substrates Containing Morphine
Authors: Bourel B , Tournel G , Hédouin V , Lee Goff ML , Gosset D
Published: August 2015

Two species of necrophagous Coleoptera: Dermestes frischi (Dermestidae) and Thanatophilus sinuatus (Silphidae), were reared on substrates containing different amounts of morphine. Colonies of D. frischi were reared on rabbit carcasses which had been given 10, 20, and 40 mg/h of morphine hydrochloride via ear artery perfusion over a 3 h period prior to death. A fourth rabbit served as a control. T. sinuatus was reared on minced beef spiked with morphine hydrochloride to give concentrations of 1000, 2500, 5000, and 10 000 ng/g and one control colony. These dosages were calculated to create tissue concentrations of morphine similar to those encountered in human deaths due to morphine overdose. Larvae, pupae, and adults (except for T. sinuatus) were analyzed for morphine content. All developmental stages of D. frischi were positive for morphine and concentrations correlated with cadaveric tissue concentrations during larval stages and to a lesser extent in the adult stage. For T. sinuatus, the best correlations were found in 2nd and 3rd instar larvae. This study demonstrates the potential for use of necrophagous Coleoptera, as well as Diptera larvae, as alternate specimens for toxicological analyses.
Seasonality of Insect Succession and Pig Carcass Decomposition in a Natural Forest Area in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Maria Lopes de Carvalho L , Xavier Linhares A
Published: August 2015

In this study, successional patterns, relative abundance of larvae and adults of sarcosaprophagous insects, carcass decay, diversity and seasonality of species, and their potential as forensic indicators were studied. Four experiments were carried out in each season in a natural area of southeastern Brazil. Two pigs (Sus scrofa L.) were used in each experiment and were exposed to sunlight and shade, respectively. The Calliphoridae outnumbered the Sarcophagidae in specimens collected and reared from the carcasses. More insects were collected from carcasses exposed to the sun, while a larger number of specimens were reared from those in the shade. Temperature and rainfall influenced the stages of carcass decay and insect activity and abundance. Chrysomya albiceps was the most abundant species in all four experiments. The carcasses were used as a protein source and substratum for oviposition. The dark putrefaction and fermentation stages yielded more flies than the other stages. These results show that flies are important in carcass decay and are, therefore, also of forensic importance. Seven species can be considered valuable forensic indicators in South-eastern Brazil. However, only three species were useful as forensic indicators in wooded areas: P. intermutans, H. segmentaria, and H. semidiaphana.
Preliminary Quantitative Investigation of Postmortem Adipocere Formation
Authors: Yan F , McNally R , Kontanis EJ , Sadik OA
Published: August 2015

The accurate determination of postmortem interval (PMI) using the formation of adipocere presents a significant challenge to forensic scientists interested in determining the time of death. Several attempts have been made to determine the time since the occurrence of death. However, up to date, this has been difficult because previous approaches have been mainly qualitative, focusing on the later stages of degradation processes. This work presents preliminary results of an experimental model of postmortem adipocere formation using liquid chromatography. Three pig cadavers were submerged in distilled water, chlorinated water, and saline water. Fresh specimens resulting from the degradation in the subcutaneous fat were obtained from the pigs at two-week intervals for a period of ten weeks, and were subjected to chromatographic analysis. By correlating the ratio of the disappearance of hydrolyzed fatty acids with the formation of hydroxystearic and oxostearic acids after death, a simple, quantitative analytical method was developed for the determination of PMI. Experimental observation of the chemistry of adipocere formation indicated that adipocere can be formed only a few hours after an incidence of death and this continues until the saturation of oleic acid degradation after several weeks. Different time courses were obtained for cadavers immersed in distilled, chlorinated, and saline water, respectively. This work has not in any way solved the time since death problem. But it may be an approach to the problem that has not been adequately explored.
Capillary Ion Electrophoresis of Endogenous Anions and Anionic Adulterants in Human Urine
Authors: Ferslew KE , Hagardorn AN , Robert TA
Published: August 2015

Normal human urine contains many anions and cations. Ionic concentrations in urine have classically been determined by spectrophotometry of color reactions, flame emission spectrophotometry, atomic absorption spectrophotometry, high performance liquid chromatography, or potentiometry with ion-specific electrodes. Capillary ion electrophoresis (CIE) is a form of capillary electrophoresis which uses the differential electrophoretic mobility of ions to perform a separation of an ionic mixture. Various salts can be added to urine specimens to abnormally elevate ionic concentrations and interfere with either immunoassay urine drug screening procedures or gas chromatographic/mass spectrometric confirmation techniques. Application of CIE for the direct detection of endogenous anions and anionic adulterants in human urine specimens was the purpose of this investigation. CIE was performed using a Waters Quanta 4000 Capillary Electrophoresis System with either direct or indirect ultraviolet absorption detection at 254 nm. CIE of 30 random normal urine specimens and 21 urine specimens suspected of adulteration was performed. Duplicate aliquots were assayed by CIE and by colorimetric technique for nitrite. Sixteen specimens had elevated concentrations of nitrite and/or nitrate. The correlation coefficient between nitrite CIE and colorimetric results was 0.9895. Three specimens had detectable concentrations of chromate and were suspected of being adulterated with “Urine Luck,” an adulterant found to contain chromate. Two specimens suspected of being adulterated with bleach were found to only contain chloride, sulfate, and phosphate. CIE is applicable to forensic analysis of urine anion concentrations. CIE can easily quantitate numerous endogenous anions and offers a method to detect and/or confirm anion adulteration of urine specimens.
The Detection of Psilocin in Human Urine
Authors: Grieshaber AF , Moore KA , Levine B
Published: August 2015

Pharmacokinetic studies of psilocybin in humans have shown the rapid dephosphorylation of psilocybin to psilocin with further conversion to 4-hydroxy-tryptophole (4HT) and 4-hydroxyindole-3-acetic acid (4HIAA) in plasma. Our study shows that psilocin also undergoes conjugation and can be found in the urine as the psilocin-glucuronide conjugate. Recoveries after enzymatic hydrolysis of the urine with β-glucuronidase (Helix Pomatia or E. Coli) when compared to non-hydrolyzed urine confirmed the presence of the glucuronide. Detection of psilocin from hydrolyzed and extracted samples was optimized for GC/MS by derivatization with MSTFA. The method developed allows for the detection of psilocin in urine with a limit of quantitation of 10 ng/mL, based on 5 mL of spiked urine. Using this method, our laboratory has confirmed the presence of psilocin in 6 out of 8 urine samples, with concentrations ranging from 10 ng/mL to greater than 200 ng/mL. Before implementation of the hydrolysis and derivatization steps, our limit of detection was 200 ng/mL, based on spiked urine standards. No case samples were positive without hydrolysis and derivatization.
Office Paper DeCopier
Authors: Trela Frost B , Dwyer KT
Published: August 2015

DeCopier Technologies, Inc., of Framingham, MA, has developed an office paper DeCopier that uses a thermo-chemical process to soften toner and loosen its bond with paper. The toner is then brushed away and the sheet dried. The result is a “clean” sheet of paper that is ready to be reused. DeCopier Technologies, Inc. reports that this process will not only work on documents prepared by a photocopy machine or laser printer, but on transparencies, facsimiles, and other documents with toner components/entries.

An experiment design was developed to demonstrate how the DeCopying process affects toner as well as other applications (i.e., ink, typewriting, rubber stamps, etc.) that are typically seen in documentary evidence. The results indicate that, although DeCopier Technologies' ability to successfully remove toner from paper is currently limited to relatively few types of toner, the technology does have the potential to not only do what it purports, but also to affect various other applications found on documentary evidence. The DeCopying process affected all the additional applications, except watermarks, but did not completely remove any of them. However, the toner was removed successfully from the specimens prepared on transparencies. The extent to which the various applications were effected varied.
Concordance Study on Population Database Samples Using the PowerPlex™ 16 Kit and AmpFℓSTR® Profiler Plus™ Kit and AmpFℓSTR® COfiler™ Kit
Authors: Budowle B , Sprecher CJ
Published: August 2015

Over 500 population database samples comprising African Americans, Bahamians, and Southwestern Hispanics were typed using the PowerPlex™ 16 and the Profiler Plus™ COfiler™ kits. There was only one sample in which a typing difference was observed. An FGA heterozygote profile was observed using the PowerPlex™ 16 primers, and a single allele FGA profile was observed using Profiler Plus primers. Thus, the extant data suggest that the primers used in the PowerPlex™ 16, Profiler Plus™, and COfiler™ kits are reliable for typing reference samples destined for use in CODIS. In addition, African American, Bahamian, and Southwestern Hispanic databases have been established for the STR loci Penta D and Penta E. Both loci are highly polymorphic. The application of the product rule is valid for estimating the rarity of a multiple loci profile consisting of these two and the 13 core STR loci.
Validation of the AmpFℓSTR™ Profiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit for Use in Forensic Casework
Authors: Frank WE , Llewellyn BE , Fish PA , Riech AK , Marcacci TL , Gandor DW , Parker D , Carter RR , Thibault SM
Published: August 2015

According to TWGDAM guideline 4.5 (1), prior to implementing a new DNA analysis procedure or an existing DNA analysis procedure developed by another laboratory, the forensic laboratory must first demonstrate reliability of the procedure inhouse. Seven phases were designed to validate the use of the AmpFℓSTR Profiler Plus PCR Amplification Kit, as well as the PE Applied Biosystems 310 Genetic Analyzer. This report summarizes the results obtained for each of the seven phases of the validation study which included the following evaluations: polymer, reproducibility, sensitivity, stutter, precision, mixtures and nonprobative casework.
Validation of Short Tandem Repeats (STRs) for Forensic Usage: Performance Testing of Fluorescent Multiplex STR Systems and Analysis of Authentic and Simulated Forensic Samples
Authors: Moretti TR , Baumstark AL , Defenbaugh DA , Keys KM , Smerick JB , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

The amplification and typing conditions for the 13 core CODIS loci and their forensic applicability were evaluated. These loci are CSF1PO, FGA, TH01, TPOX, vWA, D3S1358, D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D16S539, D18S51, and D21S11. Results were obtained using the multiplex STR systems AmpFlSTR® Profiler Plus™ and AmpFlSTR COfiler™ (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA), GenePrint™ PowerPlex™ (Promega Corporation, Madison, WI), and subsets of these kits. For detection of fluorescently labeled amplified products, the ABI Prism® 310 Genetic Analyzer, the ABI Prism 377 DNA Sequencer, the FMBIO® II Fluorescent Imaging Device, and the FluorImager™ were utilized. The following studies were conducted: (a) evaluation of PCR parameter ranges required for adequate performance in multiplex amplification of STR loci, (b) determination of the sensitivity of detection of the systems, (c) characterization of non-allelic PCR products, (d) evaluation of heterozygous peak intensities, (e) determination of the relative level of stutter per locus, (f) determination of stochastic PCR thresholds, (g) analysis of previously typed case samples, environmentally insulted samples, and body fluid samples deposited on various substrates, and (h) detection of components of mixed DNA samples. The data demonstrate that the commercially available multiplex kits can be used to amplify and type STR loci successfully from DNA derived from human biological specimens. There was no evidence of false positive or false negative results and no substantial evidence of preferential amplification within a locus. Although at times general balance among loci labeled with the same fluorophore was not observed, the results obtained were still valid and robust. Suggested criteria are provided for determining whether a sample is derived from a single source or from more than one contributor. These criteria entail the following: (a) the number of peaks at a locus, (b) the relative height of stutter products, and (c) peak height ratios. Stochastic threshold levels and the efficiency of non-templated nucleotide addition should be considered when evaluating the presence of mixtures or low quantity DNA samples. Guidelines, not standards, for interpretation should be developed to interpret STR profiles in cases, because there will be instances in which the standards may not apply. These instances include (a) a primer binding site variant for one allele at a given locus, (b) unusually high stutter product, (c) gene duplication, and (d) translocation.
Validation of STR Typing by Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: Moretti TR , Baumstark AL , Defenbaugh DA , Keys KM , Brown AL , Budowle B
Published: August 2015

With the use of capillary electrophoresis (CE), high-resolution electrophoretic separation of short tandem repeat (STR) loci can be achieved in a semiautomated fashion. Laser-induced detection of fluorescently labeled PCR products and multicolor analysis enable the rapid generation of multilocus DNA profiles. In this study, conditions for typing PCR-amplified STR loci by capillary electrophoresis were investigated using the ABI Prism® 310 Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems). An internal size standard was used with each run to effectively normalize mobility differences among injections. Alleles were designated by comparison to allelic ladders that were run with each sample set. Multiple runs of allelic ladders and of amplified samples demonstrate that allele sizes were reproducible, with standard deviations typically less than 0.12 bases for fragments up to 317 bases in length (largest allele analyzed) separated in a 47 cm capillary. Therefore, 99.7% of all alleles that are the same length should fall within the measurement error window of ± 0.36 bases. Microvariants of the tetranucleotide repeats were also accurately typed by the analytical software. Alleles differing in size by one base could be resolved in two-donor DNA mixtures in which the minor component comprised ≥5% of the total DNA. Furthermore, the quantitative data format (i.e., peak amplitude) can in some instances assist in determining individual STR profiles in mixed samples. DNA samples from previously typed cases (typed for RFLP, AmpliType™ PM + DQA1, and/or D1S80) were amplified using AmpFℓSTR® Profiler Plus™ and COfiler™ and were evaluated using the ABI Prism 310. Most samples yielded typable results. Compared with previously determined results for other loci, there were no discrepancies as to the inclusion or exclusion of suspects or victims. CE thus provides efficient separation, resolution, sensitivity and precision, and the analytical software provides reliable genotyping of STR loci. The analytical conditions described are suitable for typing samples such as reference and evidentiary samples from forensic casework.
A Standard of AmpliType PM Typing from Aged Evidentiary Samples
Authors: Mizuno N , Senju H , Sekiguchi K , Yoshida K , Kasai K , Sato H
Published: August 2015

In analyzing aged samples by the AmpliType PM PCR amplification and Typing kit, it was occasionally observed that color developed typing strips had dark allele dots on PM loci but no visible S dot. Since the S dot acts as a minimum dot intensity control to determine positive alleles on the PM loci, it is necessary to apply another control system. To achieve positive PM typing from a degraded DNA sample that is inferred to be derived from a single donor, a standard has been adopted wherein loci from which sufficient PCR products are observed on agarose gel can be typed. The objective determination of sufficient PCR was done by comparison between band peak height of each locus generated from a sample and that of the corresponding locus generated from two nanograms (recommended minimum quantity as template DNA) of the control DNA provided in the kit.
The Forensic Application of Allozyme Electrophoresis to the Identification of Blowfly Larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Southern Australia
Authors: Wallman JF , Adams M
Published: August 2015

Most known carrion-breeding species of blowflies in southern Australia are of the genus Calliphora. The morphological similarity of the immatures of these species means that correctly identifying them poses a challenge for forensic entomologists. This study investigates the potential of allozyme analysis to assist with this task. Molecular profiles of third-instar larvae and adults representing four of these carrion-breeding species, Calliphora stygia, C. dubia, C. hilli hilli, and C. vicina, were compared at 42 allozyme loci. The two life stages were found to display almost identical allozyme profiles in each species (93% of loci were expressed in both life history stages), enabling the reliable identification of larvae in these four species. Integration of these results with data from a previous study indicates that allozyme analysis would also be suitable for rapid, species-level identification of the larvae of six other carrion-breeding Calliphora species occurring in southern Australia. This is the first report of the application of allozyme data to the identification of forensically important blowflies.
Determination of Gamma-hydroxybutyrate in Water and Human Urine by Solid Phase Microextraction-Gas Chromatography/Quadrupole Ion Trap Spectrometry
Authors: Blair S , Song M , Hall B , Brodbelt J
Published: August 2015

A simple method of detection was developed for gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB). The method involves the derivatization of GHB using a hexyl-chloroformate procedure in aqueous media (such as water or urine), extraction of the derivatization product directly from the sample using solid-phase microextraction, and subsequent separation and detection with gas chromatography quadrupole ion trap mass spectrometry. The deuterated form of GHB (GHB-D6) is used as an internal standard for quantitation. The method was linear for GHB-spiked pure water samples from 2 to 150 µg/mL GHB with a detection limit of 0.2 µg/mL. Spiked urine samples showed linearity from 5 to 500 µg/mL GHB with a detection limit of 2 µg/mL. The SPME-GC/MS method is applied to actual case samples, and the results are compared to those values obtained using a conventional GC/MS method. Sensitivity and linearity are comparable to those seen using traditional methods of separation, yet the SPME method is superior due to the simplicity, speed of analysis, reduction in solvent waste, and ability to differentiate between GHB and gamma-butyrolactone (GBL).