bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Forensic Aspects of Trace Element Variation in the Hair of Isolated Amazonas Indian Tribes
Authors: Perkons AK , Velandia JA , Dienes M
Published: August 2015

The importance of trace element composition and especially variation in hair in forensic investigations has generated wide interest and controversy during the last decade with the advance of nuclear activation analysis techniques [1,2].
Postmortem Pink Teeth
Authors: Kirkham WR , Andrews EE , Snow CC , Grape PM , Snyder L
Published: August 2015

The observation, in 1953, of pink-colored teeth in the exhumed body of a victim in the Christie murders appears to have been the first report of this postmortem phenomenon in recent times [1]. In reporting this and four other cases, Miles and Fearnhead [2] suggested that the pinkness is a natural postmortem phenomenon caused by the seepage into the dentinal tubules of a fluid containing hemoglobin or its degradation products derived from decomposition or liquefaction of the tooth pulp. Beeley and Harvey [3] further reviewed the occurrence of this phenomenon and recorded additional cases in five humans and one dog. Their studies on the red gelatinous material in the pulp chambers of pink teeth gave spectrophotometric evidence for the presence of hemoglobin or other heme compounds. Isoelectric focusing confirmed the identification of the material as hemoglobin or derivatives of hemoglobin.
Paternity Testing by Using Erythrocyte Enzyme Esterase D
Authors: Dykes DD , Polesky HF
Published: August 2015

The recently discovered erythrocyte enzyme system esterase D (EsD) [1] has been found to be a reliable genetic marker in population studies. It is presumed to be transmitted as an autosomal codominant allele with two common variants, EsD1 and EsD2 [1], and one rare variant EsD3 [2,3]. Gene frequencies for the EsD1 allele ranged from 0.649 to 0.945 in the twelve populations reviewed by Welch and Lee [4].
Postural Asphyxia as a Cause of Death in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Authors: Simson LR , Brantley RE
Published: August 2015

Many investigators have considered the possible role of asphyxia in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Suggested mechanisms have included those which might mechanically compromise the airway, such as smothering, laryngospasm [1], and nasal obstruction from upper respiratory tract infection in the obligate nasal breathing infant [2]. Much current research focuses on the possibility of centrally mediated respiratory failure related to sleep apnea, functional abnormality of the ponto-medullary respiratory centers [3], chemically induced laryngeal apnea [4], and inappropriate operation of the oxygen-conserving reflex (“diving reflex”) [5].
Toxic or Tolerant: Chloral and the Drug Dilemma
Authors: Jindrich EJ
Published: August 2015

Chloral hydrate, discovered in 1832, is considered to be the first synthetic organic compound effectively used as a hypnotic [1]. Its relative safety gained it great popularity, and reports of administering up to 25 g in a 20-h period have been published [2]. Dependency potential was recognized early, and many notable individuals including the philosopher Nietzsche became habituated. Individual case histories have documented persons taking almost 25 g nightly over prolonged periods of time [3] but little has been published on actual blood concentrations in such apparently tolerant individuals. The following case exemplifies some of the problems encountered in certifying a death in a person using relatively large amounts of chloral hydrate.
The Pathology of Self-Mutilation and Destructive Acts: A Forensic Study and Review
Authors: Eckert WG
Published: August 2015

The forensic practitioner is well aware of the self-destructive behavior of man through his experiences in evaluating cases in which a life has been taken through self-destructive means, but he may never encounter those cases occasionally confronting his clinical colleagues in which this self-destructive behavior is manifested against a part of the body and results in serious injury or mutilation. This abnormal behavior has been referred to by Karl Menninger [1] as “focal suicide” and is a manifestation of primary aggressive tendencies directed against one's self. Focal suicide is part of Menninger's general classification of self-destructive behavior of man (Table 1) and includes self-mutilations, malingering, “polysurgery” (compulsion to submit to surgical operations on many occasions), purposeful accidents, and impotence and frigidity.
A Review of Pharmacy and the Law
Authors: Caplan YH
Published: August 2015

This book is written primarily for practitioners and students of the profession of pharmacy, and broadly covers the law as it applies to all aspects and subspecialities of pharmacy practice. In lieu of an index, it contains an expanded outline which facilitates rapid and efficient use of the book. In addition, it contains a series of appendexes in which many of the most important laws applicable to pharmacy and drug regulation are reproduced.
A Review of Forensic Dentistry
Authors: Furst G
Published: August 2015

Now that the terms “forensic odontology” and “forensic dentistry” are becoming more known to the dental profession and law enforcement agencies, text books have begun to appear. Everybody wants to get in on the scene. Since Gustafson's book in 1966 and Furahata and Yamamota's book in 1967, which have since become standard texts on the subject, four books have been published. Of the four, this book seems to be one of the best.
A Review of Forensic Science—Scientific Investigation in Criminal Justice
Authors: Principe AH
Published: August 2015

This book is a compilation of the best articles by prominent authorities, both living and dead, who over the years covered the role of forensic sciences in the many phases of the criminal justice system.
A Review of Scientific Trace Analysis in Traffic Accidents
Authors: Rudzitis E
Published: August 2015

The somewhat unique nature of the book and the rather complex German title suggest that listing the contents would be the best way to introduce the contents of the volume; also, the paging should indicate the extent of treatment given to various topics and subtopics.
Review: Applications of Luminescence in Forensic Science
Authors: Gibson EP
Published: August 2015

Luminescence is defined as the emission from a sample of radiation that falls in the near ultraviolet, visible, or near infrared regions of the spectrum. Conventional luminescence (fluorescence and phosphorescence) is widely used and consists of excitation by electromagnetic radiation, usually of a wavelength greater than 200 nm, and the emission of radiation that has a longer wavelength than the excitation radiation. Other forms of luminescence differ from fluorescence and phosphorescence in that they derive the excitation energy from another source. Cathodoluminescence, for instance, uses a beam of low energy electrons as an excitation source. Chemiluminescence and bioluminescence derive their excitation from chemical reactions, bioluminescence being a special case where the chemical reaction occurs in a biological specimen. Thermoluminescence derives its excitation energy from ultraviolet or ionizing radiation, but the excitation is “trapped” in the material, only to be released when the material is heated.
Some Observations Concerning Blood Morphine Concentrations in Narcotic Addicts
Authors: Monforte JR
Published: August 2015

Progress in the development of analytical methods has enabled the forensic toxicologist to detect and quantitate morphine in blood from the deceased narcotic addict. Techniques such as gas chromatography [1,2], radioimmunoassay [3–5], and spectrophotofluorometry [6,7] are adequate in terms of sensitivity and specificity. A comparison of three methods has also appeared [8].
An Improved Ferrous Metal Detection Reagent
Authors: Thornton JI , Stoney DA
Published: August 2015

Recently the authors' laboratory reported on the use of a newly developed ferrous detection reagent [1]. This reagent, 3-(2-pyridyl)-5,6-diphenyl-1,2,4-triazine-p,p'-disulfonic acid, disodium salt trihydrate (PDT), reacts with ferrous ion to give a magenta complex, and the reaction is sufficiently sensitive to be used to determine if an individual has recently handled a steel object such as a firearm.
Toward a Scientific Forensic Psychiatry
Authors: Dietz PE
Published: August 2015

Every discipline must occasionally take stock of where it has been and where it is going, and this is nowhere more important than in a field such as legal medicine in which the practitioners are scattered around the world and have various professional identities and allegiances. Elsewhere I have described the tripartite structure of American legal medicine and the educational implications of the fractionation of the discipline into three divisions focused on psychiatry, pathology, and jurisprudence [1]. The implications for research are analogous and are complicated by the additional problem of coordinating research in legal medicine with research in criminology and criminalistics.
Psychiatric Evaluation of Traumatic Impotence: Evolution of a Case
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

A problem facing medicolegal examiners is evaluating the uncommon case in which scientific knowledge and clinical experience are often limited and in which relevant information is derived from a number of disciplines. Many experts are confronted with situations that occur rarely in the course of one individual's practice and yet one can formulate a reasonable opinion with review and collation of applicable information and coordinated input from different professionals. Particularly in psychiatric cases, or those with psychiatric implications, evaluators may react on the basis of their own set or bias [1] as well as countertransference attitudes. When a case involves an unclear diagnosis of one of the participants, non-psychiatrists are perhaps even more likely to attribute these events to psychologic phenomena, some of which can be utilized in a disparaging or demeaning fashion.
Evaluation of a Photoluminescence Technique for the Detection of Gunshot Residue
Authors: Nesbitt RS , Wessel JE , Wolten GM , Jones PF
Published: August 2015

This is the second paper in a series describing the photoluminescence technique for detection of gunshot residue. It presents results of a substantial number of analyses of samples obtained for a variety of handguns and cartridges and collected under various conditions. A primary objective of the second study has been to evaluate factors which affect the utility of the method, such as the persistence of residue on the hand after firing, the effect of activity on retention of residue, and the possible presence of identifiable residue on surfaces other than the hand. The data represent an extensive addition to existing information on lead in gunshot residue and samples from several environmental conditions. A new method of residue collection, based on an adhesive layer, was used to collect samples from hands. It was found to be superior to the wash procedure used in the previously reported work [1]. For background information on the luminescence method the reader is referred to the earlier report.
Thermal Decomposition of Nitrocellulose Propellants
Authors: House JE , Zack PJ
Published: August 2015

Most smokeless propellant powders for small arms use are either single base or double base types. Single base powders consist of nitrocellulose with small amounts of additives such as tin to reduce barrel fouling and muzzle flash, graphite to improve handling, and a stabilizer such as diphenylamine. Double base powders contain nitrocellulose with 10 to 15% of nitroglycerin added [1].
The Use of the Gandolfi Camera as a Screening and Confirmation Tool in the Analysis of Explosive Residues
Authors: Canfield DV , De Forest PR
Published: August 2015

In the past, bombing cases were relatively uncommon and evidence from these cases seldom found its way into the forensic science laboratory. Therefore, only a limited amount of research in the area of explosive residue analysis has been carried out. Today, however, according to the current figures from the National Bomb Data Center the reported incidence rate is about 5.8 bombs per day [1]. As S. G. Styles [2] remarks: “Terrorism is a fact of life today in all parts of the free world. It grows up in a climate of political, religious or doctrinal tensions; it erupts with violence, death and destruction.” Rather than being a rarity, bomb residues are becoming a part of everyday forensic science laboratory analysis. Thus, the forensic science laboratory today is being frequently asked to determine if in fact a bombing has taken place or if some accident such as a natural gas leak caused gas to accumulate in the presence of an ignition source, resulting in an explosion. In addition, where the damage characteristic of a high explosive is noted, the capability of identifying the type of explosives used in a bombing would be helpful as an investigative aid in limiting the number of possible avenues to be pursued by investigators. It would be important to distinguish between explosions resulting from compounds such as picric acid or ammonium nitrate, which may have legitimate nonexplosive uses and may have been detonated accidentally in storage, and those substances such as military explosives whose presence at the origin of an explosion would imply a purposeful design. Further subdivision of this latter group by use of definitive chemical identification schemes could aid in determining the source of supply and possibly the perpetrator.
Concise Identifications of Commonly Encountered Tear Gases
Authors: Gag JA , Merck NF
Published: August 2015

This laboratory recently received two submissions on unrelated matters, each containing a tear gas canister. The offenses were aggravated assault and aggravated robbery. Our effort to identify conclusively the chemical composition was delayed because we had little prior experience with the compounds and we found relatively little published material that dealt with the specific problems of separation of the primary constituent from the typical carriers [1,2].
The Identification of Polyester Fibers in Forensic Science
Authors: Grieve MC , Kotowski TM
Published: August 2015

A polyester fiber is by definition one composed of linear macromolecules comprising at least 85% (by mass) of the chain of an ester of a diol and terephthalic acid [1]. In 1941 it was discovered in the laboratories of the Calico Printers Association in Lancashire, England that fibers could be spun from polyethlene terephthalate (PET). I.C.I. Ltd. began production in 1948 under the name “Terylene,” and production was expanded to a large scale in 1955. DuPont began to produce a polyester known as Fiber V in the U.S.A. in 1950. This fiber subsequently became known as Dacron® and was produced in quantity from 1953 onwards [2].
Digoxin Concentrations in Fatal Cases
Authors: Selesky M , Spiehler V , Cravey RH , Elliot HW
Published: August 2015

Analytical methods for the determination of digoxin in pharmaceutical and autopsy specimens using colorimetry [1], gas liquid chromatography [2ߝ4], fluorometry [1,5], and polarography [6] have been reported. These classic methods, however, suffered from lack of sensitivity and specificity in the therapeutic (1.0 to 1.4 μg/litre) [7] and borderline toxic (2.0 μg/litre or greater) ranges, making detection of this drug possible only when large amounts remained unadsorbed in the stomach or excreted via the kidneys. The introduction of radioimmunoassay in 1969 by Smith et al [7] and Smith and Haber [8] made possible the detection of digoxin in postmortem biological fluids and tissue samples. Radioimmunoassay for the determination of serum digoxin is now the most extensively used radioisotope test in many nuclear laboratories and may be the most commonly requested drug assay by hospital physicians.
A Study of Procedures for the Identification of Heroin
Authors: Clark CC
Published: August 2015

For forensic purposes, it is essential for the chemist to identify drugs correctly. The method or combination of methods chosen must be able to differentiate the drug present from all other compounds, regardless of structural similarities. The proper choice of method can be achieved only with a thorough understanding of the limitations and specificity of each analytical technique available to the chemist. Virtually no literature is available on the specificity of the many procedures used for the identification of heroin (diacetylmorphine). Indeed, it has been shown [1] that even pyramiding certain analytical tests may not be adequate.
Gas Chromatographic Analysis of Amphetamine Derivatives and Morpholine-Related Drugs
Authors: Canfield DV , Lorimer P , Epstein RL
Published: August 2015

Forensic chemists are constantly evaluating various techniques for the identification and isolation of large classes of drugs of similar chemical structure. Because of increased abuse, of particular interest are the amphetamine derivatives and morpholine-related drugs either clandestinely synthesized or manufactured in licit form. The twelve drugs studied in this paper, some of which have been recently controlled by law as dangerous substances, are routinely encountered in crime laboratories; thus, the chromatographic separation and identification of these substances is important to practicing forensic drug chemists.
Identification Through the Computerization of Dental Records
Authors: Siegel R , Sperber ND , Trieglaff A
Published: August 2015

The use of dental records in forensic sciences is one of the accepted and time-honored methods of identification. A trained forensic odontologist is consulted when identification cannot be determined through visualization, fingerprints, personal effects, or other methods. Traditionally, the forensic odontologist studies the dentition, using charts, X-rays, photographs, and sometimes study models. He then compares his findings with records believed to be those of the subject in question to confirm or rule out positive identification.
Comparative Studies on the Rate of Ethanol Elimination in Acute Poisoning and in Controlled Conditions
Authors: Bogusz M , Pach J , Staśko W
Published: August 2015

For many years, a view has been established in toxicology that the elimination of ethanol in the blood is by zero-order kinetics, that is, at a constant rate [1ߝ5]. A factor which restricts ethanol metabolism is the reoxidation of a reduced form of nicotinamide dinucleotide (NADH) produced during ethanol oxidation to acetaldehyde by an alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH)-NADH system [6,7].
Reporting Laboratory Data in the International System of Units
Authors: Young DS
Published: August 2015

In several countries the SI (Système International des Unités) has become the accepted way for reporting data. This is particularly true in Europe where in several countries the system exclusively is used within hospitals for reporting data for patient-care purposes and for publication of scientific reports.
Analysis of Impurities in Illicit Methamphetamine Exhibits. III: Determination of Methamphetamine and Methylamine Adulterant by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Kram TC
Published: August 2015

For this third paper in a series reporting the results of analyses of illicit methamphetamine preparations [1,2], exhibits of dl-methamphetamine hydrochloride (I) appearing as off-white blocks or hygroscopic powder were examined and found to contain substantial quantities of methylamine hydrochloride (II). Some of the powder exhibits contained, as diluents, mannitol (III), dextrose (IV), or a combination of one of these with magnesium sulfate. Examination for other impurities indicated only traces, at most, of unidentifiable compounds.
Forensic Applications of X-Ray Diffraction. I: Differentiation of Piperidyl Benzilates and Related Glycolates by Micro-X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Barrick JC , Polk DE , Raman RV , Giessen BC
Published: August 2015

The differentiation of closely related compounds is a subject of considerable forensic importance, especially for drugs where relatively minor compositional or structural variations, such as different substituents or isomerism, have considerable physiological effects and may distinguish between a controlled substance and an uncontrolled one. Frequently, common techniques such as ultraviolet (UV) spectroscopy are ineffective in such cases [1], and others such as thin-layer chromatography (TLC) [2] lack specificity of response. Some effective techniques such as mass spectrometry (MS) [3] are often not readily available.
The Development of Latent Fingerprints on Human Skin: The Iodine-Silver Plate Transfer Method
Authors: Adcock JM
Published: August 2015

The successful development of latent prints on human skin would be of great use to the law enforcement officer in the investigation of crimes in which the subject has touched the victim. The iodine-silver plate transfer method has shown promising results in the development of such impressions from both live and cadaveric human skin. Numerous police agencies in the United States and Canada are presently experimenting with this process; it is still in the research stage and consequently has not been used in the investigation of an actual case.
An Unusual Tear-Gas Gun Fatality
Authors: Oxley DW
Published: August 2015

The potential for serious and fatal wounds by tear-gas pen guns firing both conventional tear-gas and fixed metallic ammunition has been extensively studied and reported by Stahl, Jones, and others [1–5]. The case reported here involves the “weapon as missile” and illustrates an additional potential for injury or fatality to the shooter when these weapons are loaded with metallic ammunition. This case is mentioned in passing by Jones [3], but to our knowledge no similar case has been fully reported.
An Examination of Selected Automobile Rubber Bumper Guards
Authors: Hueske EE , Clodfelter RW
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to determine whether or not rubber from an automobile bumper could be used to aid in the identification of a vehicle involved in a hit-and-run accident.
Acute Ethanol Poisoning: A Two-Year Study of Deaths in North Carolina
Authors: Taylor HL , Hudson RP
Published: August 2015

A significantly high blood level of ethanol is one of the most common factors among deaths investigated by medical examiners. There are few, if any, drugs that are as extensively used. Much information is available on forensic problems that involve the use and abuse of ethanol and on deaths contributed to, caused, or precipitated by ethanol [1–4].
A Review of Combat Handgun Shooting
Authors: DiMaio VJM
Published: August 2015

This is a well written, beautifully illustrated book. The author is obviously knowledgeable about and interested in his subject. The intended audience for this book originally appears to have been individuals interested in the sport of combat handgun shooting. In writing the book, however, the author has produced a textbook on combat handgunning which should be of interest to law-enforcement agencies as well as individual police officers. This book can assist such agencies in firearm training as well as in making decisions as to choice of suitable weapons and ammunition. The book should be required reading for all firearms instructors, if not for all police officers. In short, I highly recommend this book.
A Review of Paternity Testing by Blood Grouping
Authors: McWright CG
Published: August 2015

Paternity Testing By Blood Grouping by Dr. Leon N. Sussman is revised and updated from the original 1968 edition entitled Blood Grouping—Medicolegal Uses. It covers succinctly and ably the development and current status of the field of immunohematology. The A-B-O, M-N-S-s, Rh-Hr, Kell, Kidd, Duffy, and Lutheran blood group systems as well as polymorphic serum proteins and erythrocyte isoenzymes receive critical attention from the standpoint of their medicolegal applications in disputed paternity cases.
Using Small-Angle Light Scattering to Discriminate Among Single Fibers Subjected to Consumer-Like Uses
Authors: Bresee RR , Crews PC
Published: August 2015

Small-angle light scattering (SALS) patterns and scanning electron photomicrographs (SEM) of single fibers were recorded for five different types of polyester fibers when new as well as after being laundered by either of two different methods or after being exposed to outdoor weather. SALS was a sensitive tool for discriminating among the fiber types when new as well as after each of the three treatments. In addition, SALS was able to discriminate among fibers from the same yarn bobbin in each of the four different conditions examined. SALS was more sensitive in detecting some types of physical changes than was SEM.
The Evidential Value of Automobile Paint. Part II: Frequency of Occurrence of Topcoat Colors
Authors: Ryland SG , Kopec RJ , Somerville PN
Published: August 2015

Frequency of occurrence data are valuable to forensic scientists in their quest to properly assess the evidential value of automotive paint exhibits. A survey of automobile topcoat paint colors is presented with a sample size of 43 000 vehicles covering six eastern states in the United States. In addition, the results of a second survey utilizing more discriminating color groups for 2000 vehicles in central Florida is given. Comments on statistical validity and sample size for frequency distribution studies are provided.
Detection of the Rare PGM13 Allele. Further Biochemical and Genetic Characterization of the PGM13 Isozymes
Authors: Nelson MS
Published: August 2015

A family possessing the rare PGM13 allele has been found in North Carolina, and criteria for the electrophoretic separation and accurate typing of the PGM13 isozymes are outlined. The PGM13 isozymes detected proved to be useful in helping to determine parentage in an incest investigation. The pattern of segregation of the PGM13 allele in four generations of this family and thermostability studies on the PGM13 isozymes are presented.
National and International Standards Pertaining to Noise and Speech
Authors: Yost WA
Published: August 2015

There has been considerable recent activity in the development of standards relating to bioacoustics, especially in the areas of noise, hearing, and speech. Most of these national and international standards are written within the framework of the Bioacoustic Committee, S3, of the American National Standards Institute. This paper briefly describes how standards for bioacoustics are developed and used. Many of the new standards on noise, hearing, and speech are also described.
Privilege, Confidentiality, and Patient Privacy: Status 1980
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

The principle of patient privacy has evolved from the Hippocratic Oath to current medical ethics guidelines and to legal protections for doctor-patient communications. Privilege statutes now abound in the United States with considerable difference from state jurisdiction to state jurisdiction. Recently several bills have been introduced to establish a federal standard for patient privacy. These bills are critically examined—particularly in regard to the conflict between the need to keep doctor-patient interactions private and the demand by law enforcement agencies for information. The federal bills lean towards the latter at the expense of the protection of confidentiality and therefore should not be adopted. The narrowness of the scope of the proposed laws is reflected in a comparison with a proposed model privacy act.
Terrorism—What Can the Psychiatrist Do?
Authors: Daly LN
Published: August 2015

The 1970s have yielded many situations in which psychiatrists have been summoned by agents of the state for help in resolving terrorist-related crises. This paper tries to examine the evolving role of forensic psychiatrists as they participate in such situations and reviews some of the functions involved in open community/terrorist confrontations, closed community/terrorist confrontations, and psychiatrist/terrorist relations. Positive contributions have been made by psychiatrists, but there is a lack of available information to assist them in fulfilling their tasks. Specific recommendations are made that may be of benefit to the psychiatrist.
Stimuli Triggering Violence in Psychoses
Authors: Pontius AA
Published: August 2015

Various behavioral and neurophysiological models are suggested to objectify and quantify the defense of insanity and to assess dangerousness in someone who is being considered for release from custody. Two cases are presented that show a pattern of specific relationships between traumatic experiences in youth and a later trigger stimulus that releases homicidal action. Until a refined classification system and neurophysiological understanding of sudden aggression can be achieved, forensic psychiatrists should be aware of the psychotic trigger reaction within a clinical psychiatric model.
An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys. I: Salient Features of Firearms Evidence
Authors: Joling RJ
Published: August 2015

This article attempts to broaden the perspective of attorneys, but it should be of value to all forensic scientists. Although the subject matter is directed to attorneys, it nevertheless is applicable to the professional understanding of members of all professional disciplines. It covers some of the salient features of firearms evidence, and the scientific articles referenced should enable the reader to find a base from which to begin additional research.
An Overview of Firearms Identification Evidence for Attorneys. IV: Practice and Procedures When Using the Firearms Examiner and Demonstrative Evidence
Authors: Joling RJ , Stern WW
Published: August 2015

This article attempts to broaden the perspective of attorneys, but it should be of value to all forensic scientists. Although the subject matter is directed to attorneys, it nevertheless is applicable to the professional understanding of members of all professional disciplines. It highlights various practices and procedures applicable to witnesses and demonstrative evidence, and the cited rules of evidence should enable the reader to find a base from which to begin additional research.
Discrimination Among Acrylic Fiber Types by Small-Angle Light Scattering of Single Fibers
Authors: Bresee RR , McCullough EA
Published: August 2015

Small-angle light scattering (SALS) patterns and scanning electron photomicrographs of single fibers were recorded for 15 different types of acrylic fibers. SALS was seen to be a sensitive tool for discriminating among the fiber types and for characterizing fiber cross-sectional shapes, surface topography, opacity, and various forms of random bicomponent fibers.
A Case of Self-Inflicted Justice
Authors: Longwell CR , Briner RC , Rapert BR , Coombs EA
Published: August 2015

A coordinated effort among the agencies represented by the authors resulted in satisfactory answers to several puzzling questions encountered during the investigation of a fatal shooting. Several investigative and analytical techniques were used to reach the final conclusion. Overall coordination of the investigation, along with the collection of items of evidence, was handled by the sheriff's department. The highway patrol photographed the scene, aided in taling statements, and ran polygraph examinations that eventually aided in verifying the validity of some of the statements. Analyses of the various items of evidence by the crime laboratory personnel helped in the determination of what had occurred.
A Review of A Bibliography on Ethyl Alcohol for Forensic Science and Medicine and the Law
Authors: McBay AJ
Published: August 2015

This bound, printed, computer readout provides quick access to citations of selected references on topics related to the forensic science aspects of ethyl alcohol. The main sources of references were the Central Research Establishment's collection and the U.S. National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE). Of 12 000 references screened, 1633 papers were selected. The main criteria for selection were based on questions asked about alcohol by scientists, laymen, and courts. It includes papers on how alcohol affects driving performance, its disappearance from the body, and its action in combination with other drugs. References on alcoholism and animal experimentation have been excluded.
Use of Photoluminescence to Investigate Apparent Suicides by Firearms
Authors: Loper GL , Calloway AR , Stamps M.A. , Wolten GM , Jones PF
Published: August 2015

A photoluminescence technique, which detects lead and antimony in gunshot residue, was evaluated for use in investigations of apparent gunshot suicides. The study was conducted in conjunction with forensic science laboratories in five U.S. cities. Samples were collected by the adhesive lift method from the backs of the hands of 67 gunshot suicide victims, 41 subjects who died of other causes, and 31 live subjects with high occupational exposure to lead and antimony. Tentative simultaneous threshold levels of 0.85μg for lead and 0.01 μg for antimony were selected as criteria for presuming the presence of gunshot residue on samples from the hands of these suicide victims. Although blood decreases the detectability of lead and antimony in the samples, 48% of the suicide cases involving handguns other than .22 revolvers exceeded the threshold levels for both lead and antimony. Methods are suggested for eliminating the effects of blood, which should significantly increase the success rate for cases involving these guns. A much lower success rate was obtained for cases involving .22 revolvers and long guns, as expected from the sparse amounts of residue found in previous test firings of these guns.
Fluorescence Spectrometry in the Identification and Discrimination of Float and Other Surfaces on Window Glasses
Authors: Lloyd JBF
Published: August 2015

Fluorescence spectra have been obtained with conventional spectrometers from glass.surfaces varying in area down to 0.05 mm2 on fragments as small as 18 μg in mass. In such fragments several fluorescence features can be identified, including the tin fluorescence typical of float surfaces. Float surface fragments may therefore be unambiguously differentiated from other surface fragments by their fluorescence excitation spectra. Thus, in many cases the forensic scientist may now show that the type of glass surface facing the person alleged to have broken it is or is not of the same type as any incriminating fragments. Within the two classes of glass (float and nonfloat) appreciable variation occurs in relative fluorescence intensities. For float glasses there is negligible correlation between the tin fluorescence intensity and any refractive index feature, including the recently reported surface refractive index that is also characteristic of glass of this type.
Carbon-13 Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectra of Trimethoxyamphetamines—A Comparison of Predicted with Experimental Results
Authors: Bailey K , Legault D
Published: August 2015

Chemical shifts of the 13C-nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of the six trimethoxyamphetamines were predicted from results previously found for the monomethoxyamphetamines and dimethoxyamphetamines. The spectra were then determined and the signals assigned by an internally consistent analysis in comparison with the predicted shifts. Data from the spectra and details of their interpretation are presented. The agreement between found and predicted chemical shifts is excellent. The information is valuable for the structural authentication of reference materials. Differences in the chemical shifts of the methoxyl signals are related to conformational effects. The ortho and para shielding parameters discerned can be used to predict the spectra and thus identify unknowns in the absence of reference material.
Isoelectric Focusing in Agarose: Phosphoglucomutase (PGM Locus 1) Typing
Authors: Burdett PE
Published: August 2015

The subphenotypes of phosphoglucomutase (PGM) were successfully typed by isoelectric focusing with a charge-balanced agarose. The resolution was as high as that obtained with polyacrylamide, with none of the drawbacks associated with the use of polyacrylamide. Exceptionally straight iso-pH lines were obtained, making interpretation of the results more reliable. Gel preparation was simple and rapid, and the time for analysis was reduced. A way of preserving the resultant zymogram is described.
Secondary Intracranial Subarachnoid Hemorrhage Due to Spinal Missile Injury
Authors: Smialek JE , Chason JL , Kshirsagar V , Spitz WU
Published: August 2015

Fresh intracranial subarachnoid hemorrhage may occur secondary to blast-type injury of the spinal cord. This phenomenon is demonstrated in four cases of gunshot and shotgun wounds involving the spinal column. The significance of such a finding is that the subarachnnid hemorrhage should not be construed to represent an independent injury. Such an erroneous conclusion could jeopardize a theory of self-defense in a homicidal shooting.
A Review of Postmortem Procedures
Authors: Graham JW
Published: August 2015

Postmortem Procedures is designed primarily for the autopsy assistant and consists of 159 pages with 168 black and white photographs. The ten chapters are arranged in the sequence the body proceeds through the mortuary, that is, receiving area procedures and design, postmortem room design, special autopsy procedures, and preparation of the body for the funeral director.
Narcotic-Related Deaths in the District of Columbia: 1971–1979
Authors: Zimney EL , Luke JL
Published: August 2015

Two hundred eighty-seven deaths directly related to narcotic abuse occurred in the District of Columbia between July 1971 and December 1979. Factors contributing to death in some cases included lack of opiate tolerance as well as the conjoint abuse of ethanol. Free morphine was identified more often in the blood of victims dying rapidly than in the blood of those with longer post-injection survival. A statistically significant correlation between the number of heroin-related fatalities and the purity of heroin available to the user was observed over the 8½-year study period.
Zinc Concentrations in Vitreous Humor: A Postmortem Study Comparing Alcoholic and Patients Other
Authors: McDonald L , Sullivan A , Sturner WQ
Published: August 2015

Postmortem vitreous humor samples from alcoholic and other patients were compared. Zinc concentrations were lower in the alcoholic group of patients as compared to those who were not alcoholic. These findings support previous studies that indicate a decreased concentration of zinc in other body tissues and serum in alcoholic patients.
Forensic Sciences Aspects of Santeria, a Religious Cult of African Origin
Authors: Wetli CV , Martinez R
Published: August 2015

The anatomic, cultural, and legal aspects of Santeria, a religious cult of African origin, as experienced by the Dade County Medical Examiner's Office, are presented. Human skeletal parts are generally found in association with an obvious ritual or may be discovered in shallow graves. Their ritualistic use is often suggested by their association with pennies, chicken feathers, evidence of prolonged internment, rust, or accoutrements characteristic of the cult. Although some specimens were obviously purchased or were previously used as anatomic specimens, others have obscure origins. In one instance the source was proven to be a grave robbing that had taken place 30 months earlier. The potential for “voodoo death“ and outright homicide is discussed. It is anticipated that evidence of Santeria rituals will extend to other parts of the United States as Carribbean immigration continues.
An Improved Method of Gunshot Wound Examination
Authors: Copeland AR
Published: August 2015

Examination of gunshot wounds can frequently be obscured by dried blood and other extraneous artifacts. This note describes a method that involves irrigation of the wound with commercial hydrogen peroxide (3% by volume), which enhances the wound without altering the abrasion ring or powder residues.
An Improved Method for Rapid and Accurate Scanning of Fibers on Tape
Authors: Grieve MC , Garger EF
Published: August 2015

The use of adhesive tape to remove fibers transferred during contact between garments in criminal cases is standard forensic science practice. Problems associated with the recovery of “suspect” fibers from these tape strips are discussed. An aid to searching is suggested that eliminates these problems and provides an effective, accurate, and time-saving method for dealing with this routine task. It also allows more accurate quantitation of various fiber types present on tapes.
The Identification of Human Bloodstains by Means of a Micro-Thin-Layer Immunoassay Procedure
Authors: Lappas NT , Fredenburg ME
Published: August 2015

A method for the identification of human bloodstains using a micro-thin-layer immunoassay (TIA) procedure is presented. The equivalent of approximately 0.01 μL of human blood may be detected using this method with anti-human hemoglobin. Blind studies and stability studies indicate that the method is sufficiently specific and sensitive to be of forensic science value.
Interpretation of Shoe Wear Patterns in a Personal Injury Case
Authors: Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

In the course of a personal injury case, a shoe having a broken sole was examined to determine if the sole was broken when its wearer suffered a serious fall or if the sole had been broken prior to the fall (and therefore could have caused the accident). The analysis of scratches and other manifestations of wear, as well as the presence of waterstaining in the shoe's lining, indicated that the broken sole had not resulted from the wearer's fall but had existed for some time previous to that accident.
A Review of Person Identification by Means of the Teeth
Authors: Sperber ND
Published: August 2015

With characteristic thoroughness, Dr. Keiser-Nielsen details the business of being a forensic odontologist. With brilliance he leads us down the mathematical road when considering the probabilities and possibilities involved in identification of human dentitions.
A Review of Identification of Thumb Impressions and Cross Examination of Fingerprint Experts
Authors: Roth CH
Published: August 2015

Unless you are a thumbprint examiner or handwriting examiner in India, this book will not be of much use to you. In the preface, the author states that “the book contains all about fingerprints.” In fact, it deals only with one small part of the field of fingerprint identification. The author has limited his book to the identification and comparison of inked thumbprints to inked thumbprints as they appear on documents of questioned authorship and does not touch on any of the other types of fingerprint identification. In fairness to the author, his field of expertise is important in India and other countries with a high illiteracy rate, but it is not a field used much in the United States.
Circular Dichroism: An Alternative Method for Drug Analysis
Authors: Bowen JM , Crone TA , Head VL , McMorrow HA , Kennedy RK , Purdie N
Published: August 2015

A case is made for the acceptance of circular dichroism spectropolarimetry as a method for the direct and quantitative analysis of controlled substances in solid dosage forms of drugs. The method is critically described and results are included for the analysis of codeine, heroin, l-cocaine, and d-lysergic acid diethylamide.
Analysis of Fire Debris by Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Bryce KL , Stone IC , Daugherty KE
Published: August 2015

This paper describes a new technique for analyzing fire debris using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Petroleum distillates, which are commonly used as accelerants, were weathered, burned, and steam-distilled. These, as well as virgin samples of the accelerants, were analyzed by gas chromatography and NMR spectroscopy. The use of NMR is described as a valuable adjunct to the existing methods of analysis.
A Study of Shotgun Pellet Ricochet
Authors: McConnell MP , Triplett GM , Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

A study of shotgun pellet ricochet was conducted with a 12-gauge shotgun with a 457-mm (18-in.) cylinder bore barrel and 00 buckshot, both commonly used by law enforcement agencies. Concrete patio block and concrete road surface were used as intermediate target surfaces because of the common occurrence of these or similar materials in the environment. The shotgun was fired at close range so that a more accurate measurement of the angle of incidence, angle of ricochet, and pattern of shotgun pellet distribution could be obtained than is possible at greater distances. Because of the limited range of impact forces that the intermediate target materials could withstand and still retain their structural integrity, the angles of incidence used during this study were small (below 30° A series of five shots at the nominal angles of incidence of 5°, 10°, 15°, 20° and 25° were fired at each surface. Illustration board, a readily penetrable material, was used as a final target to record the shot pattern of the ricocheted shotgun pellets. The actual values of the angles of incidence, as well as the angles of ricochet, were calculated trigonometrically for each round fired. The centers of mass and the dispersals of the shotgun pellet patterns were also calculated.
Propoxyphene in Postmortem Toxicology 1976–1978
Authors: Finkle BS , Caplan YH , Garriott JC , Monforte JR , Shaw RF , Sonsalla PK
Published: August 2015

A total of 1859 cases provides the basis for this study in which propoxyphene, and often its major metabolite, was demonstrated by toxicological analysis in the blood or tissues of the deceased at 27 medical examiner or coroner's offices across the United States and Canada. The study period includes the last five months of 1975 through December 1978. The cases describe a clearly defined adult population with a marked tendency toward hypochondria, chronic minor illness, and severe psychiatric problems. The high proportion of suicides (44.1% of the total cases and 54.0% of the drug-caused deaths) and multiple-drug toxicities (88.6%) suggests that the involvement of propoxyphene in many of these fatalities may be of less significance than the phenomenon of “polypharmacy” and self-medication without appropriate medical supervision. This evaluation of propoxyphene provides no evidence that propoxyphene is responsible for “street-drug” fatalities. Its appearance in postmortem toxicological examinations has been declining sharply since 1977, but it continues to be dangerous when used excessively, particularly in combination with alcohol and other central nervous system depressant drugs.
The Determination of the Sex of an Individual from a Dried Bloodstain Using Radioimmunoassay of Testosterone, Progesterone, and Estradiol-17β
Authors: Brown BL
Published: August 2015

A radioimmunoassay (RIA) technique was developed for the purpose of determining the sex of an individual by measuring the steroids testosterone (T), progesterone (P), and estradiol-17β (E2) in dried bloodstains. The steroid values from a single bloodstain are reported as ratios T/P, T/E2, and P/E2. The results reported include data on the validation of this technique, results of analysis of 146 duplicate bloodstains representing 112 samples from females and 34 samples from males as controls, and results of analysis of 114 duplicate bloodstains representing 60 from females and 54 from males that were submitted as a blind study to test the accuracy of this RIA technique in determining the sex of an individual from a dried bloodstain.
Sex Offenders: Diagnosis, Organicity, and Intelligence
Authors: Bonheur HH , Rosner R
Published: August 2015

This is a survey of over 60 defendants who were indicted on charges of sexual offenses in the County of New York and who were referred for comprehensive psychodiagnostic evaluation atthe psychology unit of the Forensic Psychiatry Clinic. Only a small segment of the sample was found to be suffering from organic central nervous system impairment or to be of subnormal intellectual endowment.
Oral Overdose of Propylhexedrine
Authors: Riddick LR , Reisch R
Published: August 2015

We present a case of an oral overdose of cotton pledgets saturated with propylhexedrine, the active chemical in Benzedrex ® inhalers. The tissue levels are included for reference purposes.