bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Infrared Spectra of U.S. Automobile Original Topcoats (1974–1989): I. Differentiation and Identification Based on Acrylonitrile and Ferrocyanide C≡N Stretching Absorptions
Authors: Suzuki EM
Published: August 2015

A survey of U.S. automobile original topcoats (1974–1989) for binder and pigment compositions has been conducted using infrared spectroscopy. Data were obtained from panels of the Reference Collection of Automotive Paints for single layer topcoats, excluding basecoat/clearcoat finishes. This paper describes the occurrence in these topcoats of acrylonitrile, a copolymer used in some acryiic melamine enamels, and iron ferrocyanide, an inorganic pigment used in some blue and green paints. Both of these components produce characteristic C≡N stretching fundamentals, which occur in a spectral region devoid of other significant absorptions. Because of this, they are usually easy to detect and assign, and since the spectra of most U.S. automobile original topcoats do not contain these peaks, their presence can serve as useful markers for identifying certain topcoats when used in conjunction with microscopic data. Of particular significance for hit-and-run cases, acrylonitrile absorptions occur predominantly for some topcoats used on certain Ford/Chrysler/Jeep/American Motor vehicles manufactured before 1985, with the majority of these used on Fords from the 1970s. Polyurethane isocyanate N=C=O stretching absorptions, which also occur in this same spectral region, were not detected for any of the topcoats of this study.
Histological Criteria for Diagnosis of Amanita Phalloides Poisoning
Authors: Fineschi V , Di Paolo M , Centini F
Published: August 2015

Five fatal cases of poisoning from ingestion of Amanita phalloides, a very common mushroom in central Italy, are reported. The fact that four of the cases occurred simultaneously enabled uniform collection of clinical, pathology and toxicology data, which is presented with particular emphasis on the histological aspects. The fifth case involved a six-year-old girl, and is discussed with reference to differential diagnosis with respect to Reye's syndrome, which was the initial diagnosis, demonstrated incorrect by the histology, pathology and toxicology findings.

The typical liver and kidney alterations of Amanita phalloides poisoning, consisting of massive hepatic central lobular cell necrosis and acute tubular necrosis of the kidney are described. Outside the liver, there was often general hemorrhagic diathesis and severe brain edema.

Although poisoning by Amanita phalloides is rare, these cases confirm the requirement for as complete a comparison as possible between circumstantial histopathological and toxicological data for the purposes of forensic diagnosis.
Pulmonary Histopathology and Survival Period in Morphine-Involved Deaths
Authors: Grellner W , Madea B , Sticht G
Published: August 2015

For an evaluation of the survival period in morphine-involved deaths, changes of pulmonary histopathology were investigated in a total of 90 morphine-associated fatalities. Although pulmonary histopathology proved to be heterogeneous, several distinctive histological patterns emerged. While the subgroup with short courses of intoxication (<1 h, n = 15) was mostly characterized by slight/moderate alveolar edema (12/15), severe hemorrhages (12/15) and marked acute emphysema (9/15), the phenomena of massive edema (8/15), missing/slight hemorrhages (8/15) and absent/slight emphysema (11/15) dominated in the group with intermediate survival times (1–24 h, n = 15). Intravascular leukocyte accumulations (shock equivalents) occurred in the first group only once, but in the group with the longer survival time in 10 of 15 cases. Delayed deaths (>24 h, n = 4) were mainly characterized by purulent bronchitis/pneumonia. Those fatalities (n = 56) that could not be classified by anamnestic data were assessed by histological criteria. In comparison with the evaluation of the survival period by toxicological analyses, concordance was found in 46 cases. Pulmonary histopathology is not a tool for an exact graduation of survival time, but the combination of several key parameters can provide criteria for a differentiation between short (<1 h) and longer courses of intoxication.
Mechanisms of Unexpected Death in Infants and Young Children Following Foreign Body Ingestion
Authors: Byard RW
Published: August 2015

Fatal foreign body ingestion in childhood usually results in sudden and unexpected death from acute upper airway occlusion. The most common age range for such episodes is one to three years. However, a variety of different mechanisms of death due to ingested foreign bodies may occur in children, including hemorrhage, acute cardiac tamponade, arrhythmia, centrally mediated respiratory arrest and sepsis. Sudden death may follow a protracted asymptomatic period and may also be due to foreign bodies impacted in the esophagus. A review of cases has been undertaken (N = 10; age = three and one-half months to seven years; M:F = 9:1), which demonstrates the variety of lethal processes that may occur, the range of materials involved and the different anatomical sites where problems can result.
Methamphetamine and Driving Impairment
Authors: Logan BK
Published: August 2015

Following a review of the effects of methamphetamine on human performance, actual driving and behavior were evaluated in 28 cases in which drivers arrested or killed in traffic accidents had tested positive for methamphetamine. The circumstances surrounding the arrest or accident were examined, together with any observations by the arresting officer regarding behavioral irregularities. The investigators also made a determination of culpability. Most of the arrests resulted from accidents in which the driver was determined to be culpable. Typical driving behaviors included drifting out of the lane of travel, erratic driving, weaving, speeding, drifting off the road, and high speed collisions. Behavioral manifestations of methamphetamine use in arrestees included rapid or confused speech, rapid pulse, agitation, paranoia, dilated pupils, violent or aggressive attitude. Combined alcohol and methamphetamine use was uncommon, however use of marijuana was evident in about one third of the cases. In addition to impairing judgment and increasing risk taking, the effects of withdrawal from methamphetamine use including fatigue, hypersomnolence, and depression are likely contributors to many of these accidents. A consideration of the literature and the cases discussed here, leads to the conclusion that methamphetamine at any concentration is likely to produce symptoms that are inconsistent with safe driving.
Confirmation of PM Typing Protocols for Consistent and Reliable Results
Authors: Crouse CA , Nippes DC , Ritzline EL
Published: August 2015

A recent report in the Perkin Elmer “Forensic Forum” bulletin described a modification to the previously published PM typing protocol indicating that in order to obtain consistent and reliable PM and DQA1 typing results, disodium EDTA should be added to the post-amplification mixture before denaturation of the DNA fragments. The analysis and validation of this suggestion is described in the accompanying paper. We report the evaluation of this additional step when typing for PM alleles and conclude that the standard operating procedures currently enforced at the Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office and Indian River crime laboratories do not necessitate the need for the addition of disodium EDTA to the PM amplified products prior to the heat denaturation step. Further, depending on an individual laboratory's PM protocol, the recommendation by Perkin Elmer to add disodium EDTA to PM amplified products before typing has merit and should be carefully considered when determining laboratory PM typing protocols.
Radiographic Reconstruction of Root Morphology in Skeletonized Remains: A Case Study
Authors: Law CA , Michael Bowers C
Published: August 2015

This is a case study in the application of a laboratory technique first described by Dr. Brion C. Smith in the Journal of Forensic Sciences in January 1992. Our study evaluated a human skull that showed perimortem and/or postmortem tooth loss. It was discovered in 1991 and deemed to have no usable dental information due to severe alveolar bone destruction. In 1994, using minor modifications of Dr. Smith's technique, we sealed off the open tooth sockets and injected a radiopaque material which, after radiographic analysis, revealed previously unobserved dental information. This report demonstrates that root morphology can be reconstructed. This yields radiographic information that may be useful in the identification of unknown human remains.
Individualization: Principles and Procedures in Criminalistics
Authors: Kellett PM
Published: August 2015

The author's stated purpose in writing this text is to identify and discuss first principles common to all comparisons and individualizations. The material presented grew out of “Forensic Identification” taught at Ontario Police College. The author writes in a style suitable for students, trial attorneys and criminalists. The book is well-referenced (128 footnotes) and contains an index.
Validation of Probe EFD52 (D17S26) for Forensic DNA Analysis
Authors: Nelson MS , Benzinger EA , Budzynski MJ , Boodee MT , Matthews A , Buel E , Schwartz MB , von Beroldingen C , Wampler RL , Coons TM , Bixby J , Frank WE , Metzger DA
Published: August 2015

Validation studies that meet TWGDAM (The Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods) and CAC (California Association of Criminalists) guidelines for RFLP (restriction fragment length polymorphism) analysis were performed with the DNA probe EFD52 (D17S26). These studies demonstrate that the probe EFD52 is suitable for forensic casework. No unexpected DNA banding patterns were obtained from controlled studies examining various tissues, sample consistency over many gels, mixtures of body fluids, various substrates, various contaminants and non-human DNA sources. Of all the animal DNAs tested, only one higher primate yielded a single band to EFD52 hybridization. The sensitivity of EFD52 was shown to be comparable to that of other forensic probes. Population frequency distribution tables were prepared from over 4000 alleles and two-locus studies were conducted on nine forensically useful probes. Black, White, Hispanic and Lumbee Indian populations were found to be in Hardy-Weinberg and linkage equilibrium. Comparisons between victim blood standards and epithelial fractions of mixed stains from sexual assault cases were used to demonstrate the robustness of the EFD52 probe in forensic casework.
Allelic Ladder Characterization of the Short Tandem Repeat Polymorphism in Intron 6 of the Lipoprotein Lipase Gene and Its Application in an Austrian Caucasian Population Study
Authors: Glock B , Schwartz DWM , Schwartz-Jungl EM , Mayr WR
Published: August 2015

The short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphism HumLPL (TTTA)n, which is located in intron 6 of the lipoprotein lipase gene, was investigated by AMPFLP (amplification fragment length polymorphism)-technique using an allelic ladder consisting of amplified alleles of this locus as a standard size marker.

The allelic ladder was prepared by pooling equal concentrations of six separate alleles, which were identified by their different electrophoretic mobility in native polyacrylamide gel, eluted and subsequently amplified. Sequence analysis of the ladder alleles and allele 7, which is not included in the ladder, showed a regular repeat structure with 7 and 9 to 14 repetitions of the core repeat.

The allelic ladder was employed in the analysis of the genotypes of 550 unrelated Caucasoids of Austria. No new alleles were found.

The population investigated showed no deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium (P = 0.195).
Validation of Multiplex Polymorphic STR Amplification Sets Developed for Personal Identification Applications
Authors: Micka KA , Sprecher CJ , Lins AM , Comey CT , Koons BW , Crouse C , Endean D , Pirelli K , Lee SB , Duda N , Ma M , Schumm JW
Published: August 2015

Polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) loci, which typically consist of variations in the number of 3–7 base pair repeats present at a site, provide an effective means of personal identification. Typing can be accomplished by amplification of genomic DNA using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and locus-specific primers, separation of amplified alleles using gel electrophoresis and their display using silver staining or fluorescent detection. Primers for several STR loci can be combined in a single multiplex reaction so typing of multiple loci can be accomplished rapidly and with less DNA than required if each locus were analyzed separately. Before such multiplex systems are used in forensic or paternity applications, it is desirable that they undergo testing for their reliability.

This study evaluates the performance of two STR triplex systems, one containing the loci HUMCSF1PO, HUMTPOX, and HUMTH01, and the other containing HUMHPRTB, HUMFESFPS, and HUMVWFA31. Protocols for amplification of these two triplexes, and their corresponding monoplexes, were evaluated for sensitivity of detection, resistance to changes in the annealing temperature of the amplification protocol, and the ability to identify the minority contributor in amplification of mixed samples. In addition, five laboratories determined the alleles of twenty DNA samples, each extracted by one of four different extraction methods. The results illustrate that the two STR triplex systems and the monoplex systems contained within them can be used with as little as 0.25 ng of DNA template. Both triplexes amplified with 100% success using the Perkin Elmer Model 480 thermal cycler. With the GeneAmp 9600 System, the CTT triplex amplified with 100% success and the HFv triplex in 95.6% of attempts. These experiments meet many requirements for use in validation of DNA typing systems for forensic cases and paternity identification.
Structural Elucidation of Unusual Police Exhibits. II. Identification and Spectral Characterization of N-(2-Hydroxyethyl)amphetamine Hydrochloride
Authors: Cyr TD , Dawson BA , By AW , Neville GA , Shurvell HF
Published: August 2015

An unusual police exhibit having the physical appearance, color, and odor of methamphetamine hydrochloride was identified unequivocally on the basis of combined evidence from 1H- and 13C-NMR, mass, and infrared spectroscopic examination as N-(2-hydroxyethyl)amphetamine hydrochloride (HEA·HCl). A minor contaminant of the exhibit was similarly identified as ethanolamine hydrochloride (HE·HCl), suggesting synthesis via reductive amination of phenylacetone. Relevant spectroscopic data (1H-, 13C-NMR, mass, and FT-IR) and spectra are presented.
The Application of Reasoning to the Evaluation of Fundamental Differences in Handwriting Comparisons
Authors: Whiting FI
Published: August 2015

A cardinal tenet of forensic document analysis is that the existence of a single fundamental difference between questioned and known handwriting samples is a basis for excluding the samples as having come from a common source. But applying that doctrine to actual cases can be difficult because of different interpretations as to what constitutes a true fundamental difference. A review of the literature reveals that there is not just a single classification of a fundamental difference. When differences are observed between writing samples, an additional difficulty occurs in determining whether the suspect can be “eliminated” as the writer, or whether the examiner should merely report that “there is no basis for identifying the suspect as the author.” The critical element in the analysis is in determining what constitutes a reasonable explanation for the observed characteristics. Circumstances that may lend themselves to varying interpretations of how fundamental are any observed differences include situations in which: (1) a single feature or letter differs between the questioned and known samples; (2) the format of the samples contrasts cursive handwriting with manuscript handprinting; (3) the questioned writing exhibits poorer line quality than the known writing; (4) there is only a small quantity of known comparison standards; (5) the writer has used a disguise that may cause the writing samples to appear to be fundamentally different.
Epidermal Cells on Stubs Used for Detection of GSR with SEM-EDX: Analysis of DNA Polymorphisms
Authors: Torre C , Gino S
Published: August 2015

DNA from epidermal cells attached to the adhesive tape of stubs employed to collect and identify gunshot residue (GSR) with scanning electron microscope (SEM) was extracted, amplified with PCR and typed.

The method allowed identification of specimens when attribution to a definite person was uncertain. These results also suggest that adhesive tape could be used as a non invasive method for obtaining biological material suitable for DNA analysis from the skin surface.
Paternity Exclusion by DNA Markers: Effects of Paternal Mutations
Authors: Chakraborty R , Stivers DN
Published: August 2015

In parentage testing when one parent is excluded, the distribution of the number of loci showing exclusion due to mutations of the transmitting alleles is derived, and it is contrasted with the expected distribution when the exclusion is caused by non-paternity. This theory is applied to allele frequency data on short tandem repeat loci scored by PCR analysis, and VNTR data scored by Southern blot RFLP analysis that are commonly used in paternity analysis. For such hypervariable loci, wrongly accused males should generally be excluded based two or more loci, while a true father is unlikely to be excluded based on multiple loci due to mutations of paternal alleles. Thus, when these DNA markers are used for parentage analysis, the decision to infer non-paternity based on exclusions at two or more loci has a statistical support. Our approach places a reduced weight on the combined exclusion probability. Even with this reduced power of exclusion, the probability of exclusion based on combined tests on STR and VNTR loci is sufficiently large to resolve most paternity dispute cases in general populations.
Development of Two-Dimensional Footwear Impressions Using Magnetic Flake Powders
Authors: Wilshire B , Hurley N
Published: August 2015

Footwear impressions deposited on various types of surface were developed using magnetic flake powder and several conventional dusting powders. Although comparable results were achieved when glass was the receptor surface, the magnetic flake powder proved superior for revealing footwear impressions on rough or porous surfaces such as linoleum, polythene and paper.
A Simple Procedure That Allows Software to Determine if a GC/MS Blank Injection Is Contaminated
Authors: Waggoner RW
Published: August 2015

One problem commonly encountered by operators of GC/MS systems is the injection of solvent blanks which are contaminated. The sources of this contamination are many and are often of an undertermined origin. The contaminated blank is an especially troublesome problem when the operator is running a sequence of samples using an autoinjector. The injection of a contaminated blank during a sequence of samples could jeopardize the data collected for any ensuing samples. A simple macro program, described here, will allow the Hewlett-Packard MS ChemStation software to decide if a blank is contaminated. If contamination is present then the software will direct the autoinjector to make the necessary reinjections.
Probable Torticollis Revealed in Decapitated Skull
Authors: Klepinger LL , Heidingsfelder JA
Published: August 2015

The skeletal features of a moderately decomposed decapitated head recovered in 1993 are consistent with torticollis (wryneck) and inconsistent with other possible syndromes. Asymmetries of the face, cranial vault, mandible, and cervical vertebrae closely resemble published cases of paleopathological and recent torticollis. The laterally directed left occipital condyle and articulation of the basicranium and cervical vertebrae indicate that the head was tipped toward the left shoulder. Right-left asymmetries of areas of muscular attachments are compatible with a leftward head deviation. Mild arthritis of the atlantal-occipital and intervertebral joints, clinoid bridging, and thickening of the inner table of the frontal squamosa may not be related to the possible torticollis. The postural deviations of the head and neck may aid in the identification of this homicide victim, as did skeletal evidence of torticollis in an earlier case from Britain.
Identifying the Order in Which Blood and Handwriting Were Deposited on a Document
Authors: Black DJ
Published: August 2015

As a consequence of a murder investigation, it became necessary to determine whether blood was present on a note prior to the handwritten entries being deposited on the paper. A simple and non-destructive technique using a profile projector was developed to allow such a determination to be made and photographed.
Methamphetamine Identification in Four Forensic Cases
Authors: Long C , Crifasi J
Published: August 2015

Specimens that tested positive for amphetamines by immunoassay were confirmed by mass spectrometry. The absence of detectable d-amphetamine (limit of detection at 50 ng/mL) with a positive methamphetamine prompted further testing by chiral derivatization. This data demonstrates that d-amphetamine need not be present in methamphetamine positive cases.
Forensic Application of Computer Simulation of Falls
Authors: Sloan GD , Talbott JA
Published: August 2015

The purpose of the paper is to describe a method of computer simulated fall reconstruction. Computer applications that simulate gravity and other physical parameters, such as Knowledge Revolution's Working Model®, allow for falls to be modeled and their dynamics studied. There are two prerequisites for the computer simulation of falls: the development of a dynamic computer manikin and the ability to specify the initial conditions to which the manikin is subjected. Discussion is presented on steps in the development of a two-dimensional dynamic computer manikin. Direction for the determination of initial conditions is illustrated in the context of examples that demonstrate the forensic applications of computer fall simulation.
Morphological Classification of Facial Features in Adult Caucasian Males Based on an Assessment of Photographs of 50 Subjects
Authors: Vanezis P , Lu D , Cockburn J , Gonzalez A , McCombe G , Trujillo O , Vanezis M
Published: August 2015

Fifty sets of photographs showing facial features of Caucasian males aged 18 to 60 years were examined to establish a morphological classification of the face. It is suggested that such a classification coudl assist facial identification by photocomparison. The selection criteria stress the importance of interassessor agreement and discrimination among feature subset units in formulating the proposed classification.
Sex Determination by Discriminant Function Analysis of Lateral Radiographic Cephalometry
Authors: Hsiao T-H , Chang H-P , Liu K-M
Published: August 2015

The present work is an attempt to develop a new method to determine sex from the skull with lateral radiographic cephalometry and discriminant function analysis. The superciliary ridges, frontal sinuses, external occipital protuberance, and mastoid processes were adopted as objects of lateral radiographic cephalometric measurements. With discriminant functions created from 18 established cephalometric variables, a total of 100 cases were classified into two sexual groups with 100% accuracy in a random sample of Taiwanese adults. Therefore, we may obtain a much greater reliability of sex determination from skulls according to this newly developed technique.
Computer-Assisted Systems for Forensic Pathology and Forensic Toxicology
Authors: Druid H , Holmgren P , Löwenhielm P
Published: August 2015

A computer software, RättsBASE (RB), was developed for all forensic pathology units in Sweden and introduced in 1992. Simultaneously, a corresponding software, ToxBASE (TB), was developed for the Department of Forensic Toxicology, where all forensic toxicology in Sweden is managed. Both of the databases were created using dBASE IV, and the programming was carried out according to specifications from the staff at the forensic toxicology and forensic pathology units. Since the development of RB and TB was coordinated, the sysetems can run together smoothly.

The purpose of both systems was to automate the offices and to enable compilation of detailed statistics. Installation of Novell Netware and ISDN-connections (Integrated Service Digital Network) has enabled rapid communication between the units and easy compilation of nationwide statistics of forensic pathology and forensic toxicology.

The systems offer a wide spectrum of reports and include a simple module for evaluation of the importance of the forensic efforts for the whole death investigation. The configuration of the softwares has also enabled processing of a large amount of related toxicological and autopsy data that in turn has yielded a base for compilation of toxicology interpretation lists.

This article includes a summary of the features of the software and a discussion of its benefits and limitations.
Sweat Testing for Benzodiazepines
Authors: Kintz P , Tracqui A , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

Thirteen subjects participated in a clinical study to determine the cumulative excretion, the time course, the dose-concentration relationship, and concentrations of diazepam in sweat following oral administration of a single dose of the drug. Nordiazepam and oxazepam, two metabolites of diazepam, were also investigated. Sweat was collected by means of Sudormed™ sweat patch. Patches were removed at specified times over one week and drug content was determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) in negative chemical ionization mode using deuterated internal standards. Irrespective of the time of collection, diazepam and nordiazepam were present, but oxazepam was never detected. Drugs were detectable in the 2 to 4-h period following the administration. Peaks of diazepam were obtained during the 48 to 72-h period. After the peak, a decrease of drug concentration was observed. Concentrations were in the range from 0.1 to 6.0 ng/patch for both drugs. After single administration of diazepam (10, 20, or 30 mg), drugs monitored in three groups of three subjects were suggestive to be dose related. All these data suggest that the sweat patch technology can be useful to document drug use over a week-long period of surveillance.
Sex Determination from Blood and Teeth by PCR Amplification of the Alphoid Satellite Family
Authors: Hanaoka Y , Minaguchi K
Published: August 2015

Sex determination from blood and teeth by PCR amplification of the alphoid satellite family according to the method of Witt and Erickson was investigated. Amplification of the X-(131 bp) and Y-(172 bp) specific sequences in males and that of the X-specific sequence in females was satisfactory in almost all samples. However, of the 22 samples (blood: 5, dental pulp: 12, tooth hard tissue: 5), a false positive fragment was detected at 172 bp among the female samples (blood: 17, dental pulp: 30, tooth hard tissue: 23) as a result of silver staining. These bands were not amplified by the dual PCR method and were different from the Y-specific band. Subsequent restriction enzyme digestion (DdeI, HinfI, and NciI) of these bands resulted in different patterns from the typical Y-specific band. Furthermore, in five male samples of hard tooth tissue specimens (n = 14), a Y-specific band was detected as a weak band, and in two of these five samples, this weak specific band was not amplified by dual PCR in spite of the male origin of the samples. These results showed that this method is useful for sex determination, but that dual PCR and restriction analysis should be used together in practical applications.
A New Individualization Marker of Sweat: Deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) Polymorphism
Authors: Yasuda T , Takeshita H , Sawazaki K , Nadano D , Iida R , Miyahara S , Kishi K
Published: August 2015

We have confirmed for the first time, both biochemically and immunologically, the existence of deoxyribonuclease I (DNase I) in human liquid sweat. Isoelectric focusing of sweat samples on polyacrylamide gels (pH 3.5 to 5), followed by dried agarose film overlay detection, was used to determine the phenotypes of sweat DNase I. Because this detection method not only had high sensitivity, but also high band resolution, it was possible to determine DNase I types from sweat samples of 50 to 100 μL. Pretreatment of sweat samples with sialidase was essential for typing to enhance markedly the sensitivity accompanied by simplification of the isozyme pattern. The DNase I types in all sweat samples were consistently related to the types found in corresponding blood, urine, and semen samples. DNase I typing could, therefore, provide a novel discriminant characteristic in the forensic examination of sweat.
Variability of the Blood/Breath Alcohol Ratio in Drinking Drivers
Authors: Jones AW , Andersson L
Published: August 2015

The ratio of blood-alcohol concentration (BAC) to breath-alcohol concentration (BrAC) was determined for 799 individuals apprehended for driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) in Sweden. The BrAC was determined with an infrared analyzer (Intoxilyzer 5000S) and venous BAC was measured by headspace gas chromatography. The blood samples were always taken after the breath tests were made and the average time delay was 30 ± 12 min (± SD), spanning from 6 to 60 min. The blood/breath ratios of alcohol decreased as the time between sampling blood and breath increased (F = 15.4, p < 0.001), being 2337 ± 183 (6 to 15 min), 2302 ± 202 (16 to 30 min), 2226 ± 229 (31 to 45 min), and 2170 ± 225 (46 to 60 min). When the BAC was corrected for the metabolism of alcohol at a rate of 0.019 g%/h, the mean blood/breath ratios were 2395 ± 193 (6 to 15 min), 2416 ± 211 (16 to 30 min), 2406 ± 223 (31 to 45 min), and 2407 ± 210 (45 to 60 min); no significant differences (F = 0.197, p > 0.05). The overall mean time-adjusted blood/breath ratio (± SD) was 2407 ± 213 and the 95% limits of agreement (LOA) were 1981 and 2833. During 1992, 1993, and 1994, the mean blood/breath ratios of alcohol were remarkably constant, being 2409 ± 288, 2407 ± 206, and 2421 ± 235, respectively, and the values were not significantly influenced by the person's age, gender, or blood-alcohol content. In 34 individuals (4.3%), the blood/breath ratio was less than 2100 after compensating for metabolism of alcohol between the times of sampling blood and breath. This compares with 156 individuals (19.6%) having a blood/breath ratio less than 2100:1 without making any correction for the metabolism of alcohol.
Influence of Age, Gender, and Blood-Alcohol Concentration on the Disappearance Rate of Alcohol from Blood in Drinking Drivers
Authors: Wayne Jones A , Andersson L
Published: August 2015

The rate of disappearance of alcohol from the blood (β-slope) was determined in drinking drivers by taking two blood samples about 60 min apart (mean 68 min, span 30 to 120 min). The results were compared for men and women as a function of their age and the prevailing blood-alcohol concentration (BAC). The material consisted of 1090 double blood samples from 976 men and 114 women with mean age 36.6 ± 12.9 y (± SD) and 38.0 ± 12.3 y (± SD), respectively. The mean BAC for the male DUI suspects was 1.88 ± 0.748 mg/mL (± SD) compared with 1.86 ± 0.702 (± SD) for the females. The relationship between β-slope (y) and BAC (x) was y = 0.175 + 0.009x with a small positive correlation (r = 0.13) and standard error estimate (syx) of 0.049 mg/mL. The mean β-slope for female DUI suspects was 0.214 ± 0.053 mg/mL/h (± SD), compared with 0.189 ± 0.048 mg/mL/h in the male suspects, and this small difference was statistically highly significant (t = 5.21, p < 0.001). The overall mean rate of alcohol elimination from blood in drinking drivers was 0.191 ± 0.049 mg/mL/h (± SD), and the 95% limits of agreement (LOA) spanned from 0.09 to 0.29 mg/mL/h. The value of the β-slope was slightly steeper starting from a high initial BAC but was not much influenced by the person's age.
The Analysis of Lysergide (LSD): The Development of Novel Enzyme Immunoassay and Immunoaffinity Extraction Procedures Together with an HPLC-MS Confirmation Procedure
Authors: Webb KS , Baker PB , Cassells NP , Francis JM , Johnston DE , Lancaster SL , Minty PS , Reed GD , White SA
Published: August 2015

A forensic procedure for the screening and confirmation of the presence of lysergide (lysergic acid diethylamide, LSD) in urine is described together with the evaluation of a novel enzyme immunoassay (EIA) and immunoaffinity extraction procedure. Following initial screening using either an established radioimmunoassay (RIA) or a novel EIA procedure, a quantitative estimate is established using a conventional high performance liquid chromatography-fluorescence (HPLC) technique following solid phase extraction. Final confirmation and quantitation, without derivatization, is established using HPLC in combination with electrospray ionization (ESI) mass spectrometry using methysergide as an internal standard. The detection limit of LSD in urine is 0.5 ng/mL. A blind trial confirmed the validity of the results. The choice of internal standard is discussed. Consideration is given to the photo-sensitivity of LSD solutions. A study of potential interferants in the HPLC-MS confirmation of LSD is presented and shows that for the wide range of compounds studied, there are none that would interfere with this confirmation technique. A comparison is shown between solid phase and immunoaffinity extraction/clean up procedures, and between RIA and EIA screening procedures.
The Criminal Investigation Process and the Role of Forensic Evidence: A Review of Empirical Findings
Authors: Horvath F , Meesig R
Published: August 2015

Highlights from the major empirical studies on the criminal investigation process, and the role played by physical evidence in that process, are reviewed in light of findings from empirical studies on the effects of forensic analyses on criminal cases. The review reveals that most criminal cases do not involve the use of any physical evidence and that such evidence, even when available, is seldom seen by police detectives as having any intrinsic value. Detectives use physical evidence primarily to strengthen their position vis à vis the suspect's for the purpose of clearing cases by confession. Nevertheless, some research shows that physical evidence improves clearances and convictions in burglary and robbery cases, which traditionally have low case resolution rates. Enhancement of the use and value of physical evidence to investigators, crime laboratory specialists, and others involved in criminal processing requires improved communication and collaborative efforts. Training of police and prosecutors should be particularly emphasized because they have the most to say about whether and how physical evidence is used in the investigation of criminal cases.
The Sexually Sadistic Serial Killer
Authors: Warren JI , Hazelwood RR , Dietz PE
Published: August 2015

This article explores characteristics and crime scene behavior of 20 sexually sadistic serial murderers. The pairing of character pathology with paraphilic arousal to the control and degradation of others is examined as it manifests itself in their murders. Commonalities across murders and across murderers are highlighted, i.e., the execution of murders that are well-planned, the use of preselected locations, captivity, a variety of painful sexual acts, sexual bondage, intentional torture, and death by means of strangulation and stabbing.
A Survey of High Explosives Traces in Public Places
Authors: Crowson CA , Cullum HE , Hiley RW , Lowe AM
Published: August 2015

This survey was carried out to determine the background levels of explosives traces in public places. Samples were taken at various transport sites. Police sites were also sampled to assess how likely it is that a suspect could be contaminated. The survey showed that traces of the high explosives nitroglycerine (NG), trinitrotoluene (TNT), pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN), and cyclotrimethylene trinitramine (RDX) are rare within the general public environment. Only four low level traces of RDX were detected. NG, probably associated with the use of firearms, was detected at a number of police sites, but traces of other explosives were rare. The results of the survey indicate that it is unlikely that someone in public areas could become significantly contaminated with explosives. Traces of NG found on suspects who have had contact with police sites must be interpreted in the light of the survey results. The analytical procedures used would also have detected ethylene glycol dinitrate (EGDN) if present at levels greater than 2 ng, mononitrotoluenes, if present, at levels greater than 50 ng and the most common isomers of dinitrotoluene if these had been present at levels in excess of 10 ng. None of these were detected. The relatively high volatility of EGDN and the mononitrotoluenes would, however, cause traces of these compounds to disperse rapidly.
The Manufacture, Examination, and Identification of Die Cut Corrugated Boxes
Authors: Bodziak WJ
Published: August 2015

Corrugated boxes are often used as containers for the delivery of bombs or may otherwise be part of the evidence in an investigation. For that reason, forensic examinations may be necessary to compare a corrugated box with its manufacturing source or with other boxes. The methods of manufacturing steel rule box dies, which are used to cut boxes from corrugated stock, result in some important physical characteristics that can assist in the examinations of those items. Dies, which are produced for flat bed platen presses for cutting and folding corrugated boxes, may develop characteristics that can be used to positively associate boxes with a die or with one another.
PCR Analysis of Lewis-Negative Gene Mutations and the Distribution of Lewis Alleles in a Japanese Population
Authors: Liu Y , Koda Y , Soejima M , Uchida N , Kimura H
Published: August 2015

Three mutations in the Lewis-negative gene, T59G, G508A and T1067A, have been detected by means of a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in 149 unrelated Japanese individuals. We found three common Lewis alleles—Le (without the T59G, G508A, and T1067A mutations), le1 (with the T59G and G508A mutations), and le2 (with the T59G and T1067A mutations) in a Japanese population. In addition, we also found one rare Lewis-negative allele, le3 (only with the T1067A mutation). The allele frequencies of Le, le1, le2, and le3 were 0.607, 0.275, 0.114, and 0.003, respectively. Our results were in accordance with those expected by the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Some statistical parameters of forensic interest were also calculated.
Rapid and Clear Detection of ABO Genotypes by Simultaneous PCR-RFLP Method
Authors: Tun Z , Honda K , Nakatome M , Nasimul Islam M , Bai H , Ogura Y , Kuroki H , Yamazaki M , Terada M , Wakasugi C
Published: August 2015

We reported a new approach of ABO genotyping by a polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Instead of amplifying the loci containing the positions of nucleotides 258 and 700 of cDNA of the A transferase separately, we successfully amplified these 2 loci together in one reaction mixture using 2 sets of primers. The amplified DNA products were digested at the same time with restriction enzymes Kpn I and Alu I. The digested DNA products were then separated by electrophoresis on polyacrylamide gel. In addition, we evaluated the influence of various amplification parameters (concentration of template DNA, primers, Taq DNA polymerase, MgCl2, and number of cycles). In particular, high Mg2+ concentration (3.5 mM) made effective amplification of this locus without producing any unspecific band. By using that optimized condition for PCR, together with a simultaneous approach, our study proved to be time saving, more economic, and convenient in interpreting the results.
Identification of Urine Specimen Donors by the PM+DQA1 Amplification and Typing Kit
Authors: Tsongalis GJ , Anamani DE , Wu AHB
Published: August 2015

We evaluated the ability to genotype DNA extracted from urine samples, which were previously submitted for toxicological analysis, by either the AmpliType HLA DQα or the combined PM+DQA1 amplification and typing systems. Initial experiments were conducted on fresh urine, which was either processed fresh or frozen for one week at −20°C, from male and female volunteers. Although male urine is noted for containing minimal numbers of nucleated cells when compared with female urine, we were able to type these samples without difficulty. Male urine specimens that were stored frozen for one year in the Toxicology Laboratory provided sources of low concentration, poor quality genomic DNA with respect to degradation of nucleic acid. These samples, however, were also easily typed using the amplification typing kits. Our data, therefore, suggest that the PM+DQA1 amplification and typing systems described here are suitable for typing analysis of donor urine specimens.
Gender Identification of Human Hair Using Fluorescence in Situ Hybridization
Authors: Prahlow JA , Lantz PE , Cox-Jones K , Nagesh Rao P , Pettenati MJ
Published: August 2015

Identification of the gender of hair represents relevant medicolegal evidence in criminal cases. The efficacy of Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH) using chromosome X and Y centromeric probes was tested to determine its ability to identify correctly the gender of hair. In this preliminary study, FISH correctly identified the gender of cells from hair as old as 26 days. The technique is accurate, rapid, sensitive, easily performed, and readily available. As a forensic laboratory technique, FISH shows great promise.
A Fatal Case of Methotrimeprazine Overdose
Authors: Avis SP , Holzbecher MD
Published: August 2015

Fatal ingestion of methotrimeprazine is unusual, and while therapeutic drug levels are established as concentrations between 0.02 to 0.14 mg/L, fatal levels are not. The following describes a case of fatal suicidal ingestion of methotrimeprazine in which the measured concentration of methotrimeprazine in the blood was 4.1 mg/L. In addition, the major metabolites of methotrimeprazine, desmethylmethotrimeprazine, and methotrimeprazine sulfoxide were also measured at 2.0 and 1.8 mg/L, respectively. Methotrimeprazine and its metabolites were also measured in urine, bile, and vitreous humor. These results are compared with other case reports of methotrimeprazine fatalities reported in the literature.
Region Does Not Mean “Race”—Reality Versus Convention in Forensic Anthropology
Authors: Brace CL
Published: August 2015

Norman Sauer has posed the rhetorical question: if races do not exist, how come forensic anthropologists are so good at identifying them? The simple answer is that, as members of the society that poses the question, they are inculcated into the social conventions that determine the expected answer. They should also be aware of the biological inaccuracies contained in that “politically correct” answer. Skeletal analysis provides no direct assessment of skin color, but it does allow an accurate estimate of original geographical origins. African, eastern Asian, and European ancestry can be specified with a high degree of accuracy. Africa of course entails “black,” but “black” does not entail African. The significant identifying features of a given region then are stochastically determined and are not the products of natural selection. If they are valuable for purposes of identification, they have no coherent adaptive, that is, biological, significance. Neither individual traits nor a configuration of them associated with a given region have any adaptive significance and thus have no comparative worth. Traits of adaptive value however are not constrained by region and cannot be used to identify “race.”
Obsessional Harassment and Erotomania in a Criminal Court Population
Authors: Harmon RB , Rosner R , Owens H
Published: August 2015

The criminal behaviors of harassment and menacing are difficult to control, and of increasing concern to the general public and local law enforcement officials. In 1992, the New York State Legislature modified the Penal Law, responding to public fears and concerns that stalking behavior may become violent.

Some persons charged with these types of offenses are suffering from psychiatric disorders. Among these disorders are those classified as Delusional Disorders. According to both DSM-III-R (1987–1993) and DSM-IV (1994), there are five specific types of Delusional Disorder: erotomanic, grandiose, jealous, persecutory and somatic. This type of disorder tends to be chronic.

Forty eight cases of persons charged with harassment and menacing in the New York County Criminal and Supreme Court and referred for evaluation to the Forensic Psychiatry Clinic between January 1987 and January 1994 are reviewed. When cases of erotomania and other affectionate/amorous complaints were compared with persecutory/angry forms of harassing behavior, there was a great deal of similarity. When all harassers were compared to the Clinic population as a whole, major differences in ethnicity, age, educational level and sex were noted. Findings are presented regarding incidence, other demographic data, recidivism, violence and clinical diagnosis.

The researchers conclude that erotomania does exist, however, there are other psychiatric disorders which can also be diagnosed in individuals accused of harassing and menacing behavior. From the point of view of the victim and the criminal justice system, the similarities in behavior patterns are more important than the different diagnoses.
Childhood Homicide in Paris, 1990–1993: A Report of 81 Cases
Authors: Fornes P , Druilhe L , Lecomte D
Published: August 2015

Homicide represents the most dramatic and heart breaking cause of death in children. Yet, in France, the true incidence and medicolegal data (modes, circumstances of deaths, and perpetrators) have been previously unknown. The goal of our study was to analyze the epidemiological and autopsy data in homicides in children in Paris and its suburbs during the past four years. We have included children from a few days after birth to 14 years of age. We report on 81 cases during the following period (17 in 1990; 14 in 1991; 16 in 1992; and 34 in 1993). Of those, 47 were boys and 34 girls. The mean age in boys was 6 years and in girls, 5 years. Fifteen homicides took place in Paris. The other 66 cases were from its suburbs. Twenty-nine of the murdered children were siblings. Seventy children (86%) were killed in their own homes; the father being responsible in 28 cases, and the mother in 17. In 20 instances, the murderer was unknown initially to the police. In 22 cases, the children were killed by gunshot, by stabbing in 14 cases, by battering in 22 cases. Four children died from drug poisoning, 13 from strangulation, and 6 from drowning. A prior history of child abuse was documented in 82% of fatal batterings.
Fatalities Involving Bicycles: A Non-random Population
Authors: Hawley DA , Clark MA , Pless JE
Published: August 2015

Bicycle riders constitute a small subgroup of all roadway deaths. Bicycle/motor vehicle collision fatalities are less frequent than pedestrian/motor vehicle fatalities. Studies have shown that non-fatal injuries of bicyclists are not randomly distributed, but follow age and sex trends that differ in the U.S. and Scandinavia. Although the bicycle-related fatalities reviewed herein do not constitute a complete profile of all such cases within our geographic area, review of these cases does provide insight into the non-random population of fatally injured cyclists in urban and rural America. A retrospective demographic and forensic medical review of 36 bicycle-related fatalities was done to clarify features of this non-random population. Consistent features including age and sex, patterned injuries and risk-taking behavior are discussed. Three of 24 (12%) adult cyclists died of homicidal gunshot wounds.