bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malpractice—A Defendant's Perspective
Authors: Patrick Jarboe J
Published: August 2015

Probably too much has already been written about the liability crisis. Health care providers have known of the problem for 15 to 16 years, and now other professionals and the general public are increasingly aware of the problem and its ramifications. So far, physicians have blamed lawyers and soft-hearted juries, trial lawyers have blamed physicians and insurance companies, and a few enlightened souls are blaming the society within which we live. For my part, I often quote that sage of contemporary America, Pogo, “We have met the enemy and they is us.” Unfortunately, to date, most of the conversation on this subject has been confrontational and self-serving, with everyone trying to lay the blame on someone else. Having been a defendant in 2 liability cases (at the same time) approximately 5 years ago, I believe I have some insight into the overall problem, and would like to share some thoughts with you.
Automated Gunshot Residue Particle Search and Characterization
Authors: Tillman WL
Published: August 2015

The main disadvantage to gunshot residue (GSR) particle analysis utilizing scanning electron microscope/energy dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) instrumentation has been the excessive operator time required for search and identification. This study uses an automated particle search and characterization program for unattended GSR search and identification. This system allows for automatic matrix search, particle sizing, chemical typing, and spectral aquisition with subsequent storage of data to disk for later operator review and verification. This work describes various aspects of the program, determines appropriate parameters adequate for both unique and characteristic GSR particle identification, and evaluates the reliability of data obtained. Samples are collected via the tape lift method from test-firings of .38, .32, .25, and .22 caliber handguns at time after firing intervals of 0 to 6 h. Unique GSR particles are consistently and correctly identified by this method on tape lift samples taken up to 4 h after firing. False positive results of unique GSR particles are not encountered on control handblank samples. This technique appears to provide the forensic science community with an operator-free method of reliable GSR particle search and an improved analyst-time-per-case ratio.
Isoelectric Focusing Patterns of Some Mammalian Keratins
Authors: Carracedo A , Prieto JM , Concheiro L , Estefanía J
Published: August 2015

An isoelectric focusing method followed by silver staining has been used for the study of keratins from a total of 97 individuals belonging to 17 families and 39 species. The method distinguishes perfectly between two different animal species. In addition, there are often considerable differences between breeds and even occasionally slight individual differences which in no way impede the identification of a particular species as such.
The Identification of the Handwriting of Josef Mengele
Authors: Crown DA
Published: August 2015

Letters, essays, diary pages, and so forth believed to be the writings of Josef Mengele, the notorious war criminal, were found in Brazil in 1985. The circumstances surrounding the examination of the documents, the source of the comparison handwriting, the technical reports written, the types of handwriting systems considered, and some of the specific characteristics used to identify the handwriting of Mengele are discussed.
Recognition and Identification of Multiple Authorship
Authors: Gencavage JS
Published: August 2015

Multiple authorship of handwritten documents is not an unfamiliar problem encountered by questioned document examiners. A detailed examination should reveal factors that will enable an examiner to recognize indications of multiple authorship in a questioned writing. As in any other handwriting examination, if the proper criteria exists, the writers can be identified.
Seat Belts and Human Rights: An Appraisal
Authors: Greenberg SR
Published: August 2015

Mandatory seat belt legislation has been passed in 15 states. Accompanying this action has been a deluge of information concerning the lives saved and the injuries prevented by the wearing of seat belts by the front seat passengers in automobiles. This study presents data relating to the injuries and deaths attributable to their usage. There is virtually no major area of the adult body that has escaped such involvement. Mechanisms by which seat belt injury is effected are described in relation to the restraint systems currently available in the United States and abroad.
Injury Patterns in Motor Vehicle Fatalities
Authors: Horowitz R , Siegel J , Flaster M , Maldonado WE
Published: August 2015

A retrospective pilot study of motor vehicle incident fatalities was conducted to determine what relationships exist between injuries received by deceased drivers, passengers, and a control population of pedestrians, and some of the environmental factors existing at the time of the incident. A number of correlations were established between the types and locations of injuries received, seat belt use, position of the injured party, and so forth. A study of this type, if performed on a large enough population, could lead to predictive models for the determination of position of the victims within a motor vehicle at the time of a fatal crash, based on a unique clustering of injuries.
Background Characteristics of Judicious and Injudicious Prescribers in New Jersey
Authors: Vilensky W , Steer RA , Weikel CV
Published: August 2015

Six background characteristics of 79 male physicians found by the New Jersey State Board of Medical Examiners to have indiscriminately prescribed Schedule II medications from 1979 through 1983 were compared with those same characteristics estimated for 10 397 physicians not reported to have indiscriminately prescribed Schedule II medications during 1979. Doctors of osteopathy (D.O.s) had a rate of injudiciously prescribing Schedule II drugs approximately 3.5 times that of medical doctors (M.D.s), and separate analyses, by type of physician, were thus conducted. However, the D.O.s who were members of the American Osteopathic Association (AOA) were approximately 4.25 times less likely to be injudicious prescribers than those who were not AOA members. Age, location, and graduation from a foreign medical school were found to differentiate injudicious M.D. prescribers. The implications of the results for developing continuing medical education programs for physicians are discussed.
Policy Implications of Private Sector Involvement in Correctional Services and Programs
Authors: Johnson TA
Published: August 2015

The movement toward private sector involvement in our correctional services and programs is growing. Before our focus is turned completely to privatization of these services, it would be prudent to analyze the “policy impact of such change. It is evident that the diverse and incompatible policies guiding the government approach to corrections and the absence of any rational planning to answer public interest goals is costly. Moreover, despite the increasing complexity of problems now confronting public authorities, little change has been made in their approach to resolving them. However, is it realistic to assume that the profit/loss barometer of the private sector can be applied in an area of social problems that are so pluralistic and ill defined? What of the many areas of potential legal concern, that is, vicarious litigation, First Amendment right of prisoners, and so forth? These are all areas that need to be researched so that any judgements or decisions made will be sound.
Dithizone as a Microcrystalline Test for the Confirmation of Projectile Lead Wipes
Authors: McGinnis MD , Thornton JI , Espinoza EO'N
Published: August 2015

The dithizone test is frequently used as a color test for lead in the confirmation of projectile wipes. An adjustment of test conditions will also allow the dithizone reaction to be conducted as a microcrystalline test, thereby increasing the specificity of the reaction. The color resulting from the formation of the inner salt complex between dithizone and the lead cation is maintained, and may be observed on the characteristic crystals obtained.
The Characterization of Small Quantities of Luminescent Invisible Detection Materials Using the Docuspec TM/1 Microspectrophotometer
Authors: Springer E , Zeichner A
Published: August 2015

A simple method has been developed for the adaptation of a Docuspec TM/1 microspectrophotometer in obtaining emission spectra of minute quantities of luminescent materials. One of the forensic science applications of this method was demonstrated: its use for the characterization of luminescent invisible detection materials.
Cost-Effective Drug Testing
Authors: McBay AJ , Hudson P
Published: August 2015

Drug testing of employees has become very popular. It has been stated that such testing is necessary because of the widespread use of drugs that affect the health, safety, and performance of workers. The sudden increase in demand for such testing has led to inadequate testing and questionable interpretation of results. High quality testing is relatively expensive. A method for evaluating the effect of drug testing programs is sorely needed. Even more important is a program for evaluating the quality of testing and the competency of those who interpret the tests. There is practically no documentation of the past and present extent of the drug problem in the workplace.
Nitro-Benzofurazanyl Ethers—A New Series of Fluorigenic Fingerprint Reagents
Authors: Almog J , Zeichner A , Shifrina S , Scharf G
Published: August 2015

Five 7-nitro-4-benzofurazanyl ethers have been prepared and examined as potential fluorigenic reagents for latent fingerprints on paper. All developed latent fingerprints with high sensitivity, similar to that of the parent compound 4-chloro-7-nitrobenzofurazan (NBD-chloride). Although development in solution is faster, vapor phase development is also possible, and it has certain advantages such as the avoidance of the use of solvents and the smaller background fluorescence and discoloration.
Comparison of Automotive Gasolines Using Capillary Gas Chromatography I: Comparison Methodology
Authors: Mann DC
Published: August 2015

Capillary gas chromatography was usd to compare the relative concentrations of hydrocarbons in a variety of gasoline samples. It was found that most of the discriminating information is contained in the fraction with a volatility ranging from approximately n-pentane to n-octane. Using the described comparison method, all gasoline samples collected at random were easily distinguished. Gasolines with identical histories (from the same distributor and same lot), once added to a gasoline station residual, were also distinguishable, although not as readily as those samples obtained at random.
Printwheel Typescript Variations Caused by the Manufacturing Process
Authors: Behrendt JE , Muehlberger RJ
Published: August 2015

Typescript specimens from several printwheels of different manufacture were examined to ascertain how the manufacturing process may influence type design. Among the parameters considered were the composition, molding process, sequence, and physical design of the printwheel. It was found that each parameter may affect modifications in a typefont. These variances in type design may cause difficulties in the classification of printwheel type styles.
Minimizing Analytical Interferences from Digoxin-Like Immunoreactive Substances (DLIS) in Cases of Digoxin Toxicity
Authors: Seccombe DW , Pudek MR , Humphries KH
Published: August 2015

Recently, the value of therapeutic drug monitoring for digoxin has been called into question by the finding of endogenous digoxin-like immunoreactive substances (DLIS) in the serum of individuals, especially premature and full-term neonates, not being treated with digoxin. In some cases, values have been as high as 10 μg/L. Levels as high as 20 μg/L and 80 μg/g can be found in bile and meconium. Because of the magnitude of this interference, it is essential that methods be developed for measuring digoxin in the presence of DLIS. This is particularly important when such analyses are required in forensic science cases of suspected digoxin toxicity. This report outlines the high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) and radioimmunoassay (RIA) methods that we used in assessing the relative contribution made by digoxin, its metabolites, and DLIS to serum and tissue digoxin concentrations obtained by RIA in a forensic pediatric case of suspected digoxin toxicity.
A Comparison of Immunodiffusion and Latex Agglutination Tests for the Identification of White-Tailed Deer Tissues
Authors: Bey RF , Loken KI
Published: August 2015

Latex agglutination and agar gel immunodiffusion were used to identify muscle tissue extracts. Both tests reacted with white-tailed deer extracts at a higher dilution than extracts from other cervids and both detected cervid antigens in sausage extracts. Latex agglutination was consistently more sensitive than agar gel diffusion. Sausage spices at five times normal concentrations and ascorbic acid did not produce false positive reactions.
A Contribution to the Discussion of Probabilities and Human Hair Comparisons
Authors: Aitken CGG , Robertson J
Published: August 2015

The paper by Gaudette and Keeping on “An Attempt at Determining Probabilities in Human Scalp Hair Comparison” in the Journal of Forensic Sciences (Vol. 19, No. 3, July 1974, pp. 599–606) has provoked considerable controversy. This paper highlights two of the sources of the controversy and shows how the probability, 1/4500, quoted by Gaudette and Keeping should be treated with caution. The necessity of the use of a likelihood ratio statistic is described. It is suggested that the hair examination form resulting from the responses to the questionnaire recently distributed by the authors and also the discussions at Quantico (Proceedings of the International Symposium on Forensic Hair Comparisons, 25–27 June 1985, Quantico VA) should be used to facilitate the collection of the data which will be necessary to enable a likelihood ratio statistic to be estimated effectively.
Transillumination in Bite Mark Evidence
Authors: Dorion RBJ
Published: August 2015

Transillumination of bite mark evidence is a technique whereby the presence of subcutaneous hemorrhage can be visualized without having to section through the bite mark. This is a nondestructive technique. The presence of subcutaneous hemorrage indicates that the bite mark was inflicted before death or perimortem. In addition, the technique proves invaluable in determining the orientation of the bite mark. This is particularly helpful when a bite mark is poorly defined, barely visible, or obscured by other superimposed bite marks or traumatic injury patterns. Observation of the subcutaneous hemorrhage by transillumination may provide an indication of the horizontal alignment of the aggressor's dentition since the force of occlusion used in delivery of the bite mark is a factor in the presence and intensity of the hemorrhage. Transillumination supports a conclusion that there may be two types of hemorrhagic patterns in bite mark evidence. Lastly, when transillumination is used in conjunction with visual aids, it can facilitate communication of bite mark evidence to other expert witnesses or to the jury in trial presentation or both.
A Fatal Wound from an Unusual Military Projectile: Potential Dangers of Live Military Ordnance to the Autopsy Pathologist
Authors: Clark MA
Published: August 2015

During ground maintenance on an F-14 aircraft, a worker was removing the Mark 124 cartridge activated devices (CADS) from the aircraft when a second worker entered the cockpit of the aircraft and energized the electrical system, causing the four CADS to detonate. One of the four CADS became an airborne projectile. It struck the first worker in front of the right arm, passed through his chest, and became embedded in his thoracic spine. An immediate concern at autopsy was whether or not the device retained any explosive potential. Recommendations for autopsy procedures in cases involving military ordnance are discussed.
A Review of Closed Head Injury, Its Pathology and Legal Medicine
Authors: Hirsch CS
Published: August 2015

Beware of a book with a disclaimer in its preface!
Presumptive Screening of Suspected Semen Stain In Situ Using Cotton Swabs and Bromochloroindolyl Phosphate to Detect Prostatic Acid Phosphatase Activity
Authors: Samuel Baechtel F , Brown J , Terrell LD
Published: August 2015

A novel approach to the presumptive screening of questioned semen stains has been developed which enables the rapid identification of stains which are devoid of semen. Questioned semen stains can be swabbed with a moist cotton swab, and the prostatic acid phosphatase (SAP) activity transferred to the swab identified through assay with 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate (BCIP). Controlled laboratory studies revealed that the BCIP swab procedure was as sensitive as the semiquantitative SAP test currently employed in the FBI Laboratory for the presumptive screening of semen stains. A validation study of the BCIP swab procedure in parallel with the current procedure using 4305 case evidence stains indicated that the BCIP swab procedure was as effective as the current procedure in identifying those questioned stains which lack semen. The advantage of the BCIP swab procedure is that it can be performed on questioned stains in situ and thereby avoids the requirement of removing and extracting the stain before assay of SAP activity.
Lewis Typing of Human Bloodstains by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) Using Monoclonal Anti-Lea and Anti-Leb
Authors: Takatori T , Tustsubuchi Y , Terazawa K
Published: August 2015

The Lewis blood grouping of human dried bloodstains could be determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using monoclonal anti-Lea and anti-Leb antibodies with an avidin-biotin complex (ABC). The bloodstains aged 1 year were used as samples, and approximately 1 mg of the stains was enough to type each Lewis antigen reliably by this method. The Lewis substances of 106 individual stains were correctly typed regardless of their ABO blood group system.
Unconjugated Morphine in Blood by Radioimmunoassay and Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Spiehler V , Brown R
Published: August 2015

Morphine, the active metabolite of heroin, is rapidly inactivated by glucuronidation at the 3 carbon. Unconjugated (pharmacologically active) morphine was measured in postmortem blood by radioimmunoassay using an antibody-coated tube kit. The kit shows less than 0.2% cross-reactivity with codeine and morphine-glucuronide. Unconjugated morphine concentrations were confirmed by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) using deuterated morphine as the internal standard. The blood was precipitated with 10% trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and concentrated hydrochloric acid (HCl), centrifuged, and decanted. The supernatant was then either diluted (unhydrolyzed) or heated to 100°C, 30 min (hydrolyzed), followed by a wash with 4:1 chloroform:isopropranol. The upper aqueous layer was then saturated with sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) and extracted with 4:1 chloroform:isopropranol. The organic layer was evaporated, derivatized with trifluoroacetic anhydride (TFA), and analyzed by selected ion monitoring (SIM) GC/MS.

Comparison of the results for unconjugated morphine by radioimmunoassay and unhydrolyzed morphine by GC/MS gave a correlation coefficient of r = 0.98, n = 100. Unconjugated morphine ranged from 0 to 100% of total morphine with a mean of 42%, n = 200, for heroin or morphine involved deaths. Review of 56 putative rapid deaths gave a mean of 68% unconjugated morphine with a range of 26 to 100%. The ratio of unconjugated to total morphine was found to be stable in postmortem blood after more than a year of storage at room temperature, within the precision of the method.
Improved Determination of Nitrotoluenes Using Liquid Chromatography with Photolytically Assisted Thermal Energy Analysis (LC-PAT)
Authors: Selavka CM , Tontarski RE , Strobel RA
Published: August 2015

A post-column, on-line, photolysis unit is incorporated in a normal phase, high-performance liquid chromatography (LC) system to improve the thermal energy analyzer (TEA) detectability of mono-, di- and tri-nitrotoluenes. The construction of this photolytically assisted TEA (PAT) detection approach includes the use of an ultraviolet lamp and a knitted open tubular (KOT) reaction chamber of Teflon®. The mechanism for improved detection using PAT is explored, using batch irradiations followed by LC-TEA and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, and is postulated to involve photochemically induced isomerization leading to homolytic cleavage of the C-NO2 bond, followed by hydrogen abstraction. After optimization of photolytic residence time and cooling bath temperature, PAT allows for an improvement in the TEA detectability of trinitrotoluene and dinitrotoluene by factors of 30 and 16, respectively. Mononitrotoluene, which is not responsive under conventional TEA conditions, may be detected with good sensitivity using LC-PAT. The use of LC-PAT does not interfere with the determination of other nitro-based high explosives which exhibit adequate responses under conventional LC-TEA conditions.
Measurement of Arch Widths in a Human Population: Relation of Anticipated Bite Marks
Authors: Barsley RE , Lancaster DM
Published: August 2015

The authors compared arch width measurements of diagnostic dental models obtained from dental school patients. Arch width measurements were taken in the canine area on each dental cast in an effort to assist forensic dental investigators in matching certain classes of subjects to the bites they might possibly inflict. If any canine teeth were absent, the measurements were taken using other specified adjacent teeth which the investigators felt would be interpreted as the arch width determiners in a bite mark injury. The ages of the subjects varied from 14 to 87 years. Statistical comparison of the maxillary arch width, mandibular arch width, and the mean difference between maxillary and mandibular arch width were performed. Significant differences between the arch width measurements were found to exist between several classes of subjects based on race and sex.
Litigous Paranoids and the Legal System: The Role of the Forensic Psychiatrist
Authors: Goldstein RL
Published: August 2015

Forensic psychiatrists should be aware of the many ways that paranoid individuals may present within the legal system. Litigious paranoids often utilize the legal system as a vehicle to act out their fantasies and delusional preoccupations. Imaginary grievances, accusations based on delusional ideation, and irrational vindictiveness toward imagined persecutors may find full expression in any number of legal contexts. They can defeat the rational and legitimate objectives of the legal system, enmesh innocent and unsuspecting victims in nightmarish legal entanglements, and subvert the process of justice. The forensic psychiatrist can assist the court by alerting it to the presence of paranoid illness in parties or witnesses and by clarifying what the effects of such psychopathology are and what the most favorable response should be. Three legal contexts wherein paranoid individuals may present within the legal system are discussed: the “hypercompetent” defendant, the paranoid party in a divorce proceeding, and the paranoid complaining witness. Case illustrations are presented for each legal context. Two issues are discussed: the dividing line between paranoid ideation (and its impact on the legal process) and so-called “normal” thinking (and its objective to use the legal process to obtain certain ends); and the degree to which psychiatric opinions in this area should influence the way an individual's case is handled by the legal system. The author concludes that, despite the costs involved, it is preferable that even paranoids have their “day in court.”
An Evaluation of an Enzymatic Choline Determination for the Identification of Semen in Casework Samples
Authors: Noppinger K , Morrison R , Jones NH , Hopkins H
Published: August 2015

This study compares the detection of choline in seminal stains by both an enzymatic method and by the standard Florence crystal test. The tests were conducted on 293 actual casework samples. In those samples identified as containing semen, choline was detected twice as often by the enzymatic method compared to the Florence method (84.6 versus 40.3%). The choline results were correlated with spermatozoa and acid phosphatase tests. The enzymatic detection of choline in seminal stains was found to be a fast, easy, sensitive, and reliable test.
Triazolam, Handwriting, and Amnestic States: Two Cases
Authors: Boatwright DE
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a discussion of handwriting in the amnestic state through two case reports associated with the phenomenon of anterograde amnesia following the use of therapeutic doses of triazolam, a rapid acting oral sleep inducing benzodiazepine. The fact that an individual executing a contract or signing a document may have no recollection of the writing event has significant implications for the questioned document examiner and other forensic science specialists. Since the issue of amnestic states and handwriting has received little apparent discussion in the forensic science literature, this paper outlines a number of issues of concern to the forensic science specialist.
Preservation of Human Tissue Immersed for Five Years in Fresh Water of Known Temperature
Authors: Cotton GE , Aufderheide AC , Goldschmidt VG
Published: August 2015

Two human bodies were recovered from the waters of the Duluth, Minnesota harbor. Extensive adipocere formation resulted in remarkable preservation of gross anatomic features of internal organs. Total time of immersion could be precisely estimated at five years. Water temperature during those five years could also be accurately estimated by direct measurements taken during the year following recovery of the bodies and from information supplied by a local electric power generating company. Immersion occurred at the time of the year when water temperature was highest (70° F [21°C]) facilitating the rapid formation of adipocere. A proposed mechanism for formation of adipocere is described.
Determination of Shooting Distance from Deformation of the Recovered Bullet
Authors: Fackler ML , Woychesin SD , Malinowski JA , Dougherty PJ , Loveday TL
Published: August 2015

A method is reported for estimating shooting distance by comparing the amount of bullet deformation of a recovered bullet with that produced in a series of test bullets fired into 10% ordnance gelatin at 4°C. Bullet deformation and fragmentation pattern in this gelatin was previously found to be comparable to that seen in living animal muscle. Striking velocities of the test bullets were lowered stepwise until a test bullet was produced with less deformity than the evidence bullet. Two shots were then made through the abdomen of a fresh swine cadaver at velocities approximating those of the last two test shots in gelatin. This served as verification of the gelatin's calibration against animal tissue and gave an additional set of bullets whose degrees of deformation bracketed that of the evidence bullet. Separate interpolations were done for bullet length, average bullet tip diameter, and bullet weight using both sets of bracketing test bullets. The resulting velocities were then converted to distances using the manufacturer's velocity tables. The average of the interpolations was 256 yds (234 m); all six fell within a range of 33 yds (30 m) (from 238 to 271 yds [218 to 248 m]).
A Review of Forensic Science Progress, Vol. I
Authors: Stone IC
Published: August 2015

Right off, I must say that I enjoyed the style, content, and purpose of this book. Most of us in the forensic sciences would probably agree that a vast majority of brooks and monographs foisted off on us in the past ten years or so are neither useful nor accurate.
Claims of Psychiatric Injury After Alleged False Arrest
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

Litigation has increased rapidly in the United States; those who feel aggrieved sue readily for damages. Police officers and security people may be sued after arrests or detention followed by unsuccessful prosecution or dropping of criminal charges. Claims of psychiatric injury may be made where there are no discernible damages otherwise. Examiners must keep in mind that physical abuse or grossly inappropriate police behavior may be factors in the ultimate results. This paper reviews 13 cases of claimed psychiatric injury after arrest. Almost all were settled, some for significant amounts. Appropriateness of evaluation, the value of nuisance suits in this type of litigation, the role of attorneys' fees, and the effect of Federal suits as opposed to state suits are discussed.
Terminal Ballistic Characteristics of Hydra-Shok® Ammunition: A Description of Three Cases
Authors: Sperry K , Sweeney ES
Published: August 2015

The Hydra-Shok® bullet is characterized by a hollow-point construction, with a distinctive central post in the base of the hollow. These features allow such missiles to be easily identified during the course of an autopsy examination of a gunshot victim. Higher velocity loadings of the Hydra-Shok may fragment along the wound path, occasionally forming a ring-like fragment that suggests this ammunition, but this feature cannot be considered unique. Although radiographic examination is helpful in bullet localization, the characteristic central post may be identified by X-ray only if sufficient expansion results in its exposure. Three cases of shooting deaths involving Hydra-Shok bullets are presented and discussed; in each case, the entrance wounds were indistinguishable from entrances associated with conventional ammunition, and in no instance did the missiles exit from the body (including head, chest, and abdominal wounds). Familiarity with relatively unusual ammunition types such as the Hydra-Shok allows for quick identification by the pathologist at the time of autopsy.
The Morphology and Evidential Significance of Human Hair Roots
Authors: Petraco N , Fraas C , Callery FX , De Forest PR
Published: August 2015

A discussion of the morphology of human hair roots is presented. In addition to descriptions of variants of the root appearance for hairs removed from follicles in the three classical growth phases, several other commonly occurring root configurations are described and illustrated with photomicrographs. The possible evidential significance of each in certain case situations is discussed.
Racial Identification from the Midfacial Skeleton with Special Reference to American Indians and Whites
Authors: Gill GW , Hughes SS , Bennett SM , Miles Gilbert B
Published: August 2015

Successful approaches to race determination of unidentified human remains have been developed by anatomists and physical anthropologists, but few quantitative methods are available for distinguishing American Indian crania from those of whites. The leading method in use today is particularly ineffective in its placement of American Indian skulls from the western regions of the United States. Recent development and testing of a new metric method suggests a much more effective technique. The method involves six breadth and projection measurements of the midfacial skeleton, the calculation of three indices, and a simple direct reading of results. The method has the additional advantage of use in the autopsy room with minimal dissection of soft tissue required. Based upon a less extensive test of East Asian and Arctic Mongoloid crania, the method appears to be even more effective in separating them from the sharp featured whites. Larger samples of American blacks and Polynesians are presently under study and these also appear to separate quite readily from whites using the same or similar sectioning values.
Age Related Changes in the Human Plastron: A Roentgenographic and Morphologic Study
Authors: McCormick WF , Stewart JH
Published: August 2015

Characteristic changes that can be demonstrated on roentgenograms occur with increasing age in the plastron (chest plate) of humans. These alterations include progressive ossification in the costal cartilages (located characteristically in the sternal rib end, centrichondrally, and peristernally—often with sex and age distinctive patterns), maturation of the newly formed bone with trabeculation formation, loss of the smooth contour of the costo-manubrial junction, cupping of rib ends, osteoporotic changes, and arthritic changes in the sternal head of the clavicles. The sequence of development of these alterations has been examined by X-ray of 1965 cadavers of 15 years of age or over and correlated with the gross bone and cartilage morphology changes in many cases. This technique allows for age determination within 5 years of real age in 55% of cadavers and within 25% of real age in 95% of all cadavers. The greatest departures from real age are in the over-60-year groups. The same roentgenograms can allow for correct sex prediction in 99% of the population.
The Use of Histomorphology to Estimate Age
Authors: Stout SD
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this paper is to discuss some of the major factors that can affect age-at-death predictions when using histomorphological methods. Although evidence suggests that some of the currently available methods are more reliable and accurate, and there are a number of factors other than chronological age that can affect bone remodeling, histomorphological methods, when properly applied, are valuable tools for anthropology and forensic medicine. It is suggested that both accuracy and reliability are maximized when the histomorphometrics of as many anatomical sampling sites as possible are sampled and the resultant ages are averaged.
A Study of the Handwriting of Adolescents
Authors: Masson JF
Published: August 2015

Handwriting of teenagers often presents problems for document examiners because the writing may have less individuality and more variation than the handwriting of an adult. This survey reveals that many unusual characteristics occur with some frequency in the handwriting of adolescents. Two styles of handwriting that were prevalent among the survey participants are described and discussed.
Controversial Ethical Issues in Forensic Psychiatry: A Survey
Authors: Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

A survey was conducted of members of the Psychiatry and Behavioral Science section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences (AAFS) to determine their ethical concerns about controversial items. Issues were included in the survey from the American Psychiatric Association (APA) and AAFS Code of Ethics. Strong support was found for those issues. Some AAPL items from a previous version of their guidelines did not receive support. Fortunately, they have been modified in a later AAPL draft, after AAPL received this survey's results. Clarification was obtained on some ambiguous items from a previous AAFS survey. The present survey showed strong support for addressing in forensic psychiatry's ethical guidelines some issues previously considered too controversial.
Predicting the Effectiveness of Treatment for Pedophilia
Authors: Rowan EL
Published: August 2015

Assessment of progress in a treatment program for pedophiles and the prediction of risk of future offenses are based upon change along four parameters: decreased objective sexual arousal to child stimuli based on negative conditioning and penile tumescence monitoring, decreased emotional congruence with children, improvement in meaningful adult relationships, and effective therapy for disinhibiting factors. The latter three are measured by rating scales completed by both patients and staff. Although statistical analysis of recidivism is in progress, it may not reflect the true frequency of reoffenses. The ability to predict successful treatment is still limited to theoretical and subjective indices.
Fourier Transform-Infrared (FT-IR) Characterization of the Ethyl Acetate Complex of O6-Acetylmorphine
Authors: Beckstead HD , Neville GA
Published: August 2015

The solid-state infrared spectral features of the (1:1) O6-acetylmorphine-ethyl acetate complex are compared to those of its host, O6-acetylmorphine base, and to its very similar analog, O3,O6-diacetylmorphine (heroin). The formation of a stable complex appears to be unique to O6-acetylmorphine for neither morphine nor its closely related derivatives, codeine, thebaine, heroin, or O3-acetylmorphine form isolable adducts during ethyl acetate extraction. Factors affecting formation of this complex during workup and extraction of forensic science exhibits are discussed.
Micromethod for MN Antigen Grouping of Dried Bloodstains
Authors: Berns B , Lötterle J
Published: August 2015

A micromethod based on the absorption elution technique was shown to be applicable to the detection of M and N blood groups of dried bloodstains on cotton cloth. Each antigen M and N was tested using two different types of antisera. Two hundred different bloodstains, stored up to six months, were analyzed. Conclusive results were obtained for M typing on 2.5-mm-long bloodstained threads. For N typing, some cross-reactivity of homozygous M stains with anti-N sera was observed. This may be explained by the structure of the M and N antigens on the red cell membrane.
Examination of Sequence of Strokes with an Image Enhancement System
Authors: Schuetzner EM
Published: August 2015

An image enhancement system was employed in the examination of sequence of strokes. Eleven problems and their variations were examined with the use of five filter routines. The results were evaluated to determine whether the filter routines of the image enhancement system were the proper tool in an examination of sequence of strokes problems.
Sudden Death in a Neonate as a Result of Herpes Simplex Infection
Authors: Traisman ES , Young S , Lifschultz BD , Traisman HS , Benuck I , Chasnoff I
Published: August 2015

This paper describes a case of a neonate with disseminated herpes simplex born to a 14-year-old asymptomatic mother. The infant's physical examination was normal at birth, and subsequent abnormalities were so subtle that infection was not recognized during life. Postmortem cultures of liver and spleen grew herpes simplex virus, and immunofluorescent direct antibody typing revealed Type 2. A cervical culture of the mother obtained after the infant's death was negative.
Amitriptyline Overdose Versus Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in a Two-Month-Old White Female
Authors: Perrot LJ
Published: August 2015

Death as a result of amitriptyline overdose was diagnosed in a two-month-old white female who was referred as a suspected sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) case by the local coroner.
Cranial Arteriovenous Malformation: Suicide by Exsanguination
Authors: Gauger GE , Herrmann PW
Published: August 2015

Arteriovenous malformations of the scalp are potential sources of serious bleeding because of their location, inherent weakness, and high flow rates. A 40-year-old man used his vascular lesion as a means of suicide. Selected aspects of the historical background, diagnosis, and treatment of these vascular disorders are described.
A Review of Scientific Aspects of Graphology—A Handbook
Authors: Crown DA
Published: August 2015

When first asked to review a book entitled Scientific Aspects of Graphology it was assumed by the reviewer that this was the slimmest volume published since the Collected Wit of Millard Fillmore.
A Review of Encyclopedia of Health Information Sources, First Edition
Authors: Jones AM
Published: August 2015

The scope of this work, to include citations of information on the entire gamut of health related subjects, is extremely ambitious. More than 450 subjects have been included and these are cross-referenced. In many instances, 12 different information sources have been given. These sources include abstract services, annuals, reviews, yearbooks, professional societies or associations, bibliographies, directories, encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, manuals, on-line data bases, periodicals, research centers, institutes, and textbooks.
The Examination of Illicit Cocaine
Authors: LeBelle M , Lauriault G , Callahan S , Latham D , Chiarelli C , Beckstead H
Published: August 2015

A laboratory system of examination of illicit cocaine exhibits is described. Separation and identification of many of the components in exhibits are achieved by the use of capillary column gas chromatography and a Finnigan ion trap detector. Further examination and quantitation of the components of exhibits is achieved using two high performance liquid chromatographic (HPLC) systems. Both of these systems use identical reverse phase C8 columns. System 1 employs a solvent composed of 40% acetonitrile, 10% tetrahydrofuran and 50% 0.1% v/v aqueous triethylamine. The eluant is monitored at 280 nm. This system is preferred for routine quantitative analysis of cocaine and related alkaloids in exhibits. System 2 employs a solvent composed of 30% acetonitrile and 70% 0.05M phosphate buffer (pH = 5.0). The eluant from this system is monitored at both 220 and 280 nm. This system offers advantages in sensitivity. The relative retention times of a number of relevant substances as determined with gas chromatography and the two HPLC systems are given. The utility of the methodology for the identification and comparison of exhibits is demonstrated.
Comparison of the Terminal Ballistics of Full Metal Jacket 7.62-mm M80 (NATO) and 5.56-mm M193 Military Bullets: A Study in Ornance Gelatin
Authors: Ragsdale BD , Sohn SS
Published: August 2015

Great controversy has surrounded the replacement of the 7.62-mm caliber by the reduced 5.56-mm caliber as the standard U.S. military rifle. Although its relevance to human wounding can be debated, the terminal ballistics of military small arms in ordnance gelatin remains a convenient medium for comparative testing. In the present study, 7- by 10- by 24-in. (18 by 25 by 61 cm) blocks of 20% ordnance gelatin were fired upon from a range of 19 ft (6 m) under high-speed cinemagraphic surveillance. The tendency of the M193 5.56-mm full metal jacket projectile to break up in soft tissue simulant was confirmed as a fundamental difference from the 7.62-mm M80 NATO ball.
Disguised Writing: Chronic or Acute
Authors: Franck FE
Published: August 2015

Questioned document cases are reviewed wherein reasons for changes in request writings transcend questions of authorship. Disguised writing is subclassified into acute disguised and chronic disguised writing. Expert testimony is critiqued.
Comments on the Accelerated Aging of Ink
Authors: Cantu AA
Published: August 2015

Several conditions are determined for relating aging curves of the same ink on the same paper obtained at two different temperatures.
Processing Photographic Films by Infrared Inspection
Authors: Jones SP
Published: August 2015

Modern advancements in the electronics industry have made infrared (IR) night vision instruments valuable tools in the photographic laboratory. Because the majority of black-and-white and color films are not sensitive in the IR portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, they can be handled and processed with the aid of infrared inspection devices. The overwhelming advantages of processing by IR inspection are numerous, but the primary benefit is to watch the latent image develop before your eyes.
An Accurate Method of Focusing for Infrared Photography
Authors: Rademacher GP
Published: August 2015

A method of accurately focusing for infrared photographs with the aid of an infrared image converter is described. The method is tested with a series of photographs and produces sharper photographs than conventional methods.
An Improved Method for the Histological Preparation of Single Hairs and Dust Samples—Morphological and Immunological Examination
Authors: Tanabe R , Ishiyama I , Itakura Y
Published: August 2015

An improved method of the serological and morphological investigation of human hair is reported. The hair was firmly fixed onto a microscopic slide with cellophane tape and observed microscopically to confirm the cuticula images and the presence of the medulla. A piece of the hair containing the medulla was dissected, embedded in paraffin, and a cross section of this hair was prepared. By treating the sample with immunohistochemistry (biotin-antibiotin ABC technique), the blood type of the hair was confirmed definitively. Dust containing shaved beard can be examined in the same way.
Methylene Blue Revisited: The Search for a Trouble-Free Erasure Sensitive Powder
Authors: Riker MA , Lewis GW
Published: August 2015

It is well recognized that the powdered mixture of methylene blue and starch is highly sensitive for the purpose of detecting physical erasure sites which are virtually undetectable by other methods. Also well known are the problems associated with this method, for example, permanent discoloration of the document upon assimilation of moisture. This paper details the successful search for a formula possessing the sensitivity of the methylene blue/starch mixture minus its disadvantages.
An Examination of a Contaminated Seminal Stain Using Absorption-Elution and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
Authors: Bolton S , Thorpe J
Published: August 2015

A semen stain, apparently contaminated with a detergent cleanser, was received for examination. The contamination interfered with the normal biochemical reactions of such stains. Treatment of the sample enabled ABO groups to be determined.
An Unusual, Deep Lingual Hemorrhage as a Consequence of Ligature Strangulation
Authors: Sperry K
Published: August 2015

During the course of the daily practice of forensic pathology, little or no attention is generally devoted to the tongue (if it is even removed at all during the autopsy examination) except in a handful of relatively well-defined situations. In some other instances, such as injuries involving the neck and laryngopharyngeal organs, the tongue may be removed, but examined in only a cursory manner, since the serious pathology which caused or contributed to death is most often located in adjacent structures. While the postmortem examination was being carried out on a victim of ligature strangulation who exhibited relatively sparse external and laryngeal findings of significance, a unique and apparently heretofore undescribed patterned hemorrhage was discovered within the deep musculature of the tongue, having an appearance and contour identical to that of the curved edge of the subjacent hyoid bone. In difficult cases where strangulation is suspected as well as other potentially medicolegal problems with trauma involving the neck organs, a detailed inspection of the tongue through an easily accomplished dissection technique may provide invaluable information as to the mechanism of injury.
Death from Pool Chlorine—An Unusual Case
Authors: Rao VJ , Hearn WL
Published: August 2015

A tank truck containing bulk pool chlorinating solution overturned. A man was trapped beneath the truck, and a ruptured seam in the tank released a continuous flow of sodium hypochlorite over him. He survived for 10 min as the caustic solution extensively eroded soft tissue exposed to the chemical flow.
Traumatic False Aneurysm of Descending Aorta with Aortoesophageal Fistula
Authors: Swanson SA , Gaffey MA
Published: August 2015

We report a case of traumatically induced false aneurysm with secondary bacterial aortitis of the descending aorta and fistula formation between the aorta and esophagus. This lesion was diagnosed at autopsy and caused death in a 68-year-old female 19 years after an automobile accident. Aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) formation as a result of any cause is rare. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of traumatic aortic aneurysm as a result of an automobile accident with subsequent AEF formation.
Dragging Deaths: A Case in Point
Authors: Dix JD , Bolesta S
Published: August 2015

A 16-year-old boy was riding his bicycle when he was struck by a truck. He was dragged over 2½ miles (4 km) before he was deposited on the side of the road. The injuries evident at autopsy revealed the boy died from dragging and not from the initial impact. The scene, and the autopsy findings, will be discussed.