bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fulminant Heart Failure Due to Selenium Deficiency Cardiomyopathy (Keshan Disease)
Authors: Burke Michael Philip , Opeskin Kenneth
Published: January 2017

Selenium deficiency is a rare cause of cardiomyopathy that may be encountered by the forensic pathologist. Selenium deficiency is associated with a cardiomyopathy, myopathy and osteoarthropathy. In Asia and Africa, dietary selenium deficiency is associated with a cardiomyopathy known as Keshan disease and an osteoarthropathy called Kashin-Beck disease. Chronic selenium deficiency may also occur in individuals with malabsorption and long term selenium-deficient parenteral nutrition. Selenium deficiency causes myopathy as a result of the depletion of selenium-associated enzymes which protect cell membranes from damage by free radicals.

We present a case of fulminant heart failure in a middle aged woman with a complex medical and surgical history including documented malabsorption and selenium deficiency. Pathological examination of the heart showed features consistent with Keshan disease.
Audit of the Forensic Psychiatry Liaison Service to Glasgow Sheriff Court 1994 to 1998
Authors: White T , Ramsay L , Morrison R
Published: January 2017

This study seeks to describe the demographic, offence, and diagnostic details of subjects referred by the Procurator Fiscal at Glasgow Sheriff Court to the Forensic Psychiatry Liaison between 1994 and 1997. The initial outcome of the assessment and an assessment of medical time involved is presented.

This study is a retrospective review of audit forms completed between 1993 and 1994 and once more in 1997.

The referral criteria, age structure and offence pattern was broadly similar to that reported in court diversion schemes in England. A primary diagnosis of alcohol and/or drug dependence was seen in one third of referrals during both years of the audit. A marked increase (250%) in referrals between 1994 and 1997 resulted in a marked reduction of those admitted to hospital, and an increase in the percentage who had ‘no psychiatric diagnosis’. The need for ongoing liaison between the Procurators Fiscal and the Forensic Psychiatrists involved would appear important in modifying referral criteria.
Crime and Punishment (Scotland) Act 1997: A Survey of Sentencers’ Views concerning the Scottish ‘Hybrid Order’
Authors: Darjee Rajan , Crichton John , Thomson Lindsay
Published: January 2017

The Crime and Punishment (Scotland) Act 1997 introduced the hospital direction (HD), often termed the ‘hybrid order’ because it allows courts to simultaneously send a mentally disordered offender to hospital and impose a prison sentence, to be completed after hospital discharge. It is the first measure that explicitly allows the imposition of a prison sentence for an offender meeting criteria for detention under the Mental Health (Scotland) Act 1984. A previous survey showed that psychiatrists in Scotland favoured the principle of a hybrid order (Darjee et al., 2000). In this study all Scottish Sheriffs (n=110) and High Court Judges (n=26) were surveyed for their views on the HD. Of the 56 respondents 19 felt unable to participate largely due to lack of experience in sentencing mentally disordered offenders. Respondents felt the HD was a useful measure, but, in contrast to Scottish Office guidance, indicated that psychiatrists should recommend it directly if they considered that it was an appropriate disposal. Respondents viewed the HD as primarily an incapacitating measure and most respondents hoped that it would encourage psychiatrists to admit ‘psychopaths’ although Scottish psychiatrists do not favour the hospitalisation of offenders with primary personality disorders.

It is concluded that in its current form and with current guidance the HD is difficult to use, as there are no criteria to differentiate it from a hospital order (HO) and psychiatrists cannot recommend it. Further, recent legislation that makes public safety the primary concern when deciding on the discharge of restricted patients in Scotland, erodes the utility of the HD as an incapacitating measure. However following the Reports of the Millan and MacLean Committees in Scotland, the role of the HD may be strengthened and clarified.
Lethal mechanisms in gastric volvulus
Authors: Omond Kimberley J , Byard Roger W
Published: January 2017

A 55-year-old wheelchair-bound woman with severe cerebral palsy was found at autopsy to have marked distention of the stomach due to a volvulus. The stomach was viable, and filled with air and fluid and had pushed the left dome of the diaphragm upwards causing marked compression of the left lung with a mediastinal shift to the right (including the heart). There was no evidence of gastric perforation, ischaemic necrosis or peritonitis. Removal of the organ block revealed marked kyphoscoliosis. Histology confirmed the viability of the stomach and biochemistry showed no dehydration. Death in cases of acute gastric volvulus usually occurs because of compromise of the gastric blood supply resulting in ischaemic necrosis with distention from swallowed air and fluid resulting in perforation with lethal peritonitis. Hypovolaemic shock may also occur. However, the current case demonstrates an alternative lethal mechanism, that of respiratory compromise due to marked thoracic organ compression.
Classification and Measurement in Forensic Handwriting Comparisons
Authors: Baxter P. G.
Published: January 2017

Handwriting is one of the pinnacles of the progressive achievements of civilization; the translation of human thoughts into graphic form, calling as this does upon many of the complex functions of both body and brain.

For various reasons, a number of attempts have been made to design systems for identifying the handwriting of a particular person. In general these systems have been based on the principles applied to the natural sciences of ‘classification’ and of ‘measurement’. However, with a subject so intrinsically variable as that of handwriting and, by definition, so essentially consistent and reproducible as those of classification and measurement, these systems have failed in universal acceptance.

This paper surveys, briefly, some of the major systems which have been designed, examines the basic principles employed, criticizes the methodology, and demonstrates reasons for the inevitable and predictable failure for the universal acceptance of such systems; at least in those exercises associated with the identification of persons in legal proceedings.
Swelling Experiments of Dried Corneal Pieces Using Tritiated Water as Tracer—The Role of Corneal Mucopolysaccharides in Postmortem Corneal Clouding
Authors: Tsunenari Shigeyuki , Kanda Mizuho
Published: January 2017

To investigate the role of corneal mucopolysaccharides (MPS) to take up water, swelling experiments were conducted on dried rabbit corneas using cetylpyridinium chloride (CPC) or testicular hyaluronidase as an inactivator of corneal MPS and tritiated water as a radioactive tracer. The curves of 3H-water uptake of dried corneas in various solutions were classified into 3 types: (i) a sleep rise followed by a slow one (in distilled water), (ii) a slow rise followed by a steep one (in physiological saline solution), (iii) a slow rise followed by a constant level or a slight fall (in the solutions containing CPC). The hyaluronidase-digested corneas in distilled water took up 3H-water at two-thirds in quantities of the water uptake of the controls. The water uptake of a dried cornea was obviously inhibited with CPC or the treatment with testicular hyaluronidase.

The importance of corneal MPS in postmortem corneal clouding was discussed on the basis of the present and previous data of the authors.
Homosexual Necrophilia
Authors: Bartholomew Allen A. , Milte Kerry L. , Galbally Frank
Published: January 2017

Two cases, one probable, of homosexual necrophilia are described and the discussion related to pathology, psychiatric jurisprudence and the criminal law process. It is suggested that cases such as the two described give support to the various suggestions made over the years to remove the concept of abnormal mental state defences from the criminal trial.
Results of Intelligence Testing of a Group of Patients Referred for Special Hospital Care
Authors: Brown Christopher Treves
Published: January 2017

Comparison of the IQ test results of a group of patients admitted to Special Hospitals under the Mental Health Act 1959 classifications of mental illness and psychopathic disorder showed that those admitted from prison had a mean IQ. of about 100, whereas those admitted from National Health Service hospitals had a mean of only about 85. The possible significance of this is discussed.
Clinical and Laboratory Investigations in 132 Cases of Solvent Abuse
Authors: Watson Joyce M.
Published: January 2017

This article comprises a summary of the clinical and laboratory investigations carried out in 132 consecutive cases of solvent abuse referred between March 1975 and October 1976. Of the 115 patients, 106 were males and 9 were females. Most cases were referred by the police (75 per cent); the remainder were referred by social workers (II per cent), parents (3 per cent) or Assessment Centre staff (11 per cent). Adhesives were found to be the substances whose vapours were most frequently abused (88 per cent). The methods used for inhalation and the lengths of ‘sniffing’ history are presented.
Sex Magazines
Authors: Gayford J. J.
Published: January 2017

The content of 72 sex magazines is analysed and discussed. About 10 per cent had a strong sadomasochistic content and tended to be more expensive. Twenty-five per cent gave no indication that they were not for sale to minors. The majority were published in London or Surrey, with 35 per cent claiming a female editor. Over half invited reader participation with letters, and 9 had professional advisers. Nearly one fifth had contact advertisements. Some magazines tried to present a respectable front with a title, or sub-title, which conveyed the impression of a serious scientific publication.
Nicotine in Post-Mortem Tissue
Authors: Oliver J. S. , Smith Hamilton , Williams D. J.
Published: January 2017

Techniques for the separation of nicotine from other materials present in human tissue are described, and a quantitative analytical method is given. The results of the analysis of a selection of post-mortem materials for nicotine are given and the stability in blood and urine over a period of time established.
Self-Poisoning by the Abuse of Arsenic Containing Tonics
Authors: Leslie A. C. D. , Smith Hamilton
Published: January 2017

Chronic arsenic poisoning may result from the abuse of arsenic containing tonics. The patient is not aware that the tonic and his state of health are connected and as a result increases the dose of the tonic hoping for a remission of symptoms. This results in a worsening of the condition and admission to hospital. The arsenic levels in hair from such cases are much higher than normal and similar to those found in chronic arsenic poisoning from other sources. The symptoms are relatively mild and appear at arsenic levels significantly greater than those found in acute non-fatal poisoning where severe symptoms are reported. This gives support to the development of arsenic tolerance following long-term ingestion of small amounts.
A Preliminary Investigation Using p-Nitrophenyl Phosphate to Quantitate Acid Phosphatase on Swabs Examined in Cases of Sexual Assault
Authors: Davies Anne
Published: January 2017

A method for determining the level of acid phosphatase activity of material on cotton-wool swabs, used by police surgeons in cases of sexual assault, has been described. The results showed that it was particularly useful as an indication of the presence of seminal fluid in the absence of spermatozoa.
An Analysis of 1,556 Cases of Doubtful Paternity Submitted for Blood Group Investigation
Authors: Dodd Barbara E. , Lincoln P. J.
Published: January 2017

An analysis of 1,566 cases of doubtful paternity in which blood group investigations were carried out between January 1965 and December 31 1976 with some additional results obtained in 1977. An increase in the number of blood group systems used from 6 in 1965 to 15 in 1973 is associated with an increase in the number of exclusions of paternity obtained from 21 per cent to 31 per cent. However the percentage has fallen slightly in the last two years. The value of blood group evidence as a pointer to paternity in cases in which the putative father is not excluded is discussed.
The Complainant's Condition in Rape Cases
Authors: Smith Alexander McCall
Published: January 2017

In England and in certain other Commonwealth jurisdictions the judge in a rape case must warn the jury of the danger of convicting on the uncorroborated evidence of the complainant. English and other Commonwealth decisions on the corroborative value of evidence of the complainant's condition are considered.
Child Molestation: A Comparison of Hong Kong and Western Findings
Authors: Law S. K.
Published: January 2017

A retrospective study of all defendants referred for psychiatric evaluation by the courts over a 10-year period for sexually molesting children was carried out. Offenders were more often of a young age, assaulting children in places accessible to the public and tending to resort to violent means if their demands were not met. Middle-aged and elderly offenders usually suffered from social isolation and sexual frustration and inclined to approach neighbouring children in a non-violent manner. Cases of severe disorder were few, but a significant number were labelled schizoid or of psychopathic personality. The characteristics of the victims closely resembled those described in Western series. Fondling was the commonest offending act, but inter***erural and attempted vaginal intercourses were also frequent.
Traffic Fatalities in Lusaka, Zambia
Authors: Patel N. S.
Published: January 2017

From January 1, 1974 to December 31, 1976 a total of 1746 a total of 1746 medicolegal post-mortems were done by the Department of Forensic Medicine, University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka. Out of these 630 (36 per cent) were traffic fatalities—516 (82 per cent) were males and 114 (18 per cent) were females. More than half of the victims—375 (59·5 per cent)—were between 21 and 40 years of age; 292 (46 per cent) were pedestrians; 121 (19 per cent) were drivers; 173 (27 per cent) were passengers; and 44 (7 per cent) were on two wheelers. 201 (40 per cent) accidents occurred between 18.00–24.00 hours; 131 (21 per cent) occurred between 12.00–18.00 hours. 418 (65 per cent) victims died on the spot, 18 (3 per cent) died on the way to the hospital and 127 (20 per cent) died within 24 hours of the accident. 407 (65 per cent) had chest injuries, 301 (47 per cent) had head injuries, 233 (37 per cent) had abdominal injuries and 220 (35 per cent) received injuries to the limbs. Of 121 drivers, 43 (35·5 per cent) died due to chest injuries (steering wheel impact injuries) and out of 292 pedestrians 49 (17 per cent) died of head injuries only. 107 (64·5 per cent) pedestrians, 61 (66 per cent) drivers, 64 (56 per cent) passengers and 15 (52 per cent) on two wheelers were under the influence of alcohol at the time of the accident. 95 (57 per cent) pedestrians, 52 (56·5 per cent) drivers, 46 (40 per cent) passengers and 12 (41 per cent) two wheeler drivers had more than 100 mg% of alcohol in their blood. 427 (68 per cent) victims died of multiple injuries, 77 (12 per cent) died of head injuries, 55 (9 per cent) died of chest injuries, 27 (4 per cent) died of injuries to the abdomen and the other 44 (7 per cent) died of complications.
A Case of Fatal Dieldrin Poisoning
Authors: Steentoft Anni
Published: January 2017

Dieldrin was developed in the United States and was made available commercially in 1948. Chemically, dieldrin is 1, 2, 3, 4, 10, 10-hexachloro-6, 7-epoxy-1, 4, 4a, 5, 6, 7, 8, 8a-octahydro-1, 4, 5, 8-dimethanonaphthalene and forms, together with aldrin and endrin, a triumvirate of insecticides derived from hexachlorodicyclopentadiene. High insecticidal activity combined with long residual action makes dieldrin an effective insecticide. Dieldrin is absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract, the respiratory tract and the skin.

Several cases of chronic or acute non-fatal dieldrin poisoning have been reported, but only a very small number of fatal dieldrin cases with only fragmentary toxicological data have been described. This paper concerns a fatal intoxication due to dieldrin, including toxicological findings in blood, liver and muscle.
Air Gun Pellet Penetration
Authors: Steindler R. A.
Published: January 2017

A very popular and powerful pneumatic air rifle sold in the United States has caused numerous injuries and even one death. These incidents are not due to a product failure, but are due to improper use of the gun. The ballistic performance of the 5 mm proprietary Sheridan pellets is examined, and the wounding and bone penetration capabilities of these pellets are studied.

Due to the softness of the projectile, bone penetration is unlikely, and skin penetration slows down the projectile so that its wounding potential is considerably reduced.

Several cases are briefly examined, and the performance of the Sheridan pellet is compared to the ballistic performance level of the 22 rimfire rounds.
An Epidemiological and Sociological Study of Unexpected Death in Infancy in Nine Areas of Southern England
Authors: Watson Elizabeth , Gardner Angela , Carpenter R. G.
Published: January 2017

Similar histories of illness were recorded in the three weeks prior to death for children who died unexpectedly in infancy and for live controls in the three weeks prior to interview. Symptom analysis showed that the main difference between the two groups of children was the non-specific behavioural changes manifested in the case infants shortly before death. Underestimation of the severity of symptoms by parents or medical attendants was indicated in a proportion of the cases in all areas.

Use of medical services was shown to vary widely between areas with a marked tendency to use hospital rather than general practitioner services in the inner city.

The investigation into sudden infant death in one area included periodic progress meetings where possible preventable causes of the deaths were examined and future child health service planning decided in the light of the knowledge gained. Since the study began, the number of sudden infant deaths in this area has dropped significantly. It is suggested that such an enquiry into the circumstances at each death would be a simple method of undertaking a study of sudden death in a locality and possibly lowering the incidence.
Dangerous People or Dangerous Situations? Some Implications for Assessment and Management
Authors: Prins Herschel A.
Published: January 2017

An attempt is made to define dangerous behaviour in a social and environmental context. Some ethical issues are discussed and guidelines are suggested for the assessment and management of dangerous or potentially dangerous offenders. The importance of the therapist ‘knowing himself’ is also stressed.
Estimation of Stature from Parts of Humerus and Radius
Authors: Mysorekar V. R. , Nandedkar A. N. , Sarma T. C. S. R.
Published: January 2017

The study took 193 right and 189 left, dry, fully ossified human humeri to derive regression formulae for the establishment of the total length of the humerus from the upper and lower segments, the line of division between the segments being the lowest level of insertion of the deltoid muscle.

Also studied have been 151 right and 126 left, dry, fully ossified radii to derive regression formulae for establishment of the total length of the radius from the upper and lower segments, the line of division between the segments being the lowest level of insertion of the pronator teres muscle.

All the regression formulae have a high degree of prediction, and are valuable in establishing the stature of an individual.
Violence in the Semi-Secure Ward of a Psychiatric Hospital
Authors: Armond A. D.
Published: January 2017

A psychiatric hospital's semi-secure ward was studied closely for 90 weeks to discover how violence arose. It was found that administrative changes made during the study were associated with dramatic rises and falls in the frequency of violence.

The patients seemed to respond favourably to an atmosphere of psychological security, this being particularly evident with those suffering from chronic schizophrenia.
A Chloroform Inhalation Fatality – An Unusual Asphyxiation
Authors: Allan A. R. , Blackmore R. C. , Toseland P. A.
Published: January 2017

Chloroform concentrations were determined in subclavian blood from a middle-aged woman who died following alleged use of chloroform during sexual foreplay. The chloroform concentration was redetermined after 1 year of storage at 4°C.

Studies were also performed on the concentrations of chloroform in blood achieved by a volunteer inhaling chloroform.
Non-Accidental Injuries to Children in Sri Lanka
Authors: Chandrasiri N. , Lamabadusuriya S. P. , De Silva D. G. H.
Published: January 2017

Cases of baby battering have not been reported in Sri Lanka since 1811. Three such cases are reported in this paper. Their ages varied from 3 months to 1 year 4 months. In one case the assailant appeared to be the elder sister aged 4 years. In the other two cases the assailant appeared to be one of the parents. As in the other reported cases, all three children have been well cared for. The predominant lesions were skin bruises, fractures of limb bones and epiphyseal dislocations. The machinery available to the medical practitioner after confirmation of the diagnosis are discussed. The reasons for the lack of awareness of medical officers and its uncommonness due to the extended family system in Sri Lanka are also discussed. The stresses and strains imposed by rapid development and progressive urbanization of the villages are also discussed. It is envisaged that with the present trend of modernization in Sri Lanka there will be a greater number of Battered Baby Syndromes.
A Case of Fatal Suffocation during an Unusual Auto-Erotic Practice
Authors: Ikeda N. , Harada A. , Umetsu K. , Suzuki T.
Published: January 2017

An unusual case of accidental death during auto-erotic practice, where three skirts, a pinafore dress, a pair of panty hose and a plastic bag were used to wrap the head and produce partial asphyxia, is described.
Autopsy Findings in Turtle Flesh Poisoning
Authors: Chandrasiri N. , Ariyananda P. L. , Fernando S. S. D.
Published: January 2017

There is a paucity of literature in Sri Lanka and internationally on autopsy findings of turtle flesh poisoning. Of the five varieties of endemic sea turtles in Sri Lanka, only the Hawksbill type (Eretmochelys imbricata – locally termed Pothu Kesbawa, Leli Kesbawa, Pana Kesbawa) is poisonous. Of the two cases described one is a breast-fed child of age 1 year 3 months and the other of 13 years. The younger child did not eat the flesh but was breast fed by his mother before becoming ill, but after she had eaten the flesh. The main findings are in the lungs. There is gross thickening of the alveolar septa with interstitial oedema with haemorrhage and micro-thrombi in the lumen of pulmonary arterioles. There is a remarkable lack of intra-alveolar oedema. The brain showed interstitial oedema. Myocardial fibres showed diffuse degeneration, necrosis and interstitial oedema with an acellular reaction. The toxic substance as postulated may be a component of a variety of algae present only in certain seasons.
A Foot in the Yard
Authors: Sivaloganathan S. , Butt W. P.
Published: January 2017

Report of a case illustrating the value of radiology in identification of human remains. It also emphasizes that careful examination will often reveal valuable information even from specimens which may appear at first sight to be incapable of yielding relevant evidence.
Mutism and the Problem of the Mute Defendant
Authors: Haw C. M. , Cordess C. C.
Published: January 2017

The psychiatric and neurological causes and assessment of mutism are reviewed. The court procedure for dealing with mute defendants and the ways in which the expert medical witness may aid the court are described. Three case histories of mute, mentally disordered offenders illustrate some of the problems these cases pose for the courts. The need for psychiatric witnesses to understand this complex legal area is stressed.
Adverse Effects of the Use of Unusual Phenethylamine Compounds Sold as Illicit Amphetamine
Authors: Bal T. S. , Gutteridge D. R. , Johnson B. , Forrest A. R. W.
Published: January 2017

A 40-year-old man, who had regularly taken illicit amphetamine by intra-nasal inhalation for several years without ill effects, was admitted to hospital with signs of massive adrenergic overstimulation shortly after inhaling material which he had purchased in the belief that it was amphetamine. The administration of the beta-blocker practolol produced a paradoxical increase in blood pressure. After his discharge from hospital he suffered disabling feelings of anxiety for several weeks. Analysis of a sample of the material showed it to contain p-methyl amphetamine and N, p-dimethyl amphetamine.
The Effects of Suspiciousness and Anger on Suggestibility
Authors: Gudjonsson Gisli H.
Published: January 2017

In this paper three criminal cases are presented where a suspicious ‘cognitive set’ or anger during experimental interrogation appeared to have a dramatic effect on their general tendency towards suggestibility. The subjects were used as their own control, as their susceptibility to suggestions had been tested objectively on two separate occasions; on one occasion they proved very resistant to suggestions, this being clearly associated with temporary suspiciousness or anger; on the other occasion, when no obvious suspiciousness or anger was evident, they proved highly suggestible. The theoretical and forensic implications of the findings are discussed.
3. An Unusual Injury
Authors: Opeskin Kenneth
Published: January 2017

The case of a young man who died unexpectedly from myocarditis is presented. The body was partially embalmed before autopsy at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Pathology. Although the cause of death was not a problem to diagnose, this case highlights artefacts that embalming may cause and the difficulties it may create with interpretation of injury. This is of particular relevance to those forensic pathologists who only uncommonly see injuries which are due to embalming.
7. Sub-Lethal Poisoning by Self-Injection with Ricin
Authors: Fine D R , Shepherd H A , Griffiths G D , Green M
Published: January 2017

Ricin, one of the most potent toxins known, has a lethal dose range of 1–10 mg per kilogram (Crompton and Gall, 1980) when injected. There is no effective treatment. We report a case of sub-lethal poisoning by self-injection.
Reconviction following Referral to a Forensic Clinic: The Criminal Justice Outcome of Diversion
Authors: Cooke D J
Published: January 2017

The criminal records of alleged offenders diverted from the normal process of prosecution were examined on average 31 months after assessment at a forensic clinic. Twenty-five per cent of those assessed reoffended. The apparent effect of treatment became statistically non-significant when other variables were controlled. It is argued that the case against the effectiveness of treatment remains ‘non-proven’ and that psychological benefits may accrue even in the absence of an effect on reconviction rate.
The Use of Symptom Validity Testing in the Diagnosis of Functional Sensory and Memory Deficits: A Review
Authors: Cliffe M J
Published: January 2017

This paper reviews the use of a modern psychophysical technique known as symptom validity testing. The technique employs a forced choice procedure providing an objective method for distinguishing between functional and organic aetiology in cases with sensory or memory deficit. The determination of functionality is by the objective demonstration that behaviour is controlled by stimuli in the sense modality in which the deficit is claimed. The data can be evaluated using conventional statistical techniques. The method is an advance on classical psychophysical methods as it does not depend upon the patient reporting whether he can or cannot perceive a single stimulus.
Production of Monoclonal Antibodies against Diquat and Its Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
Authors: Wu B , Nagao M , Terazawa K , Takatori T , Akabane H
Published: January 2017

Monoclonal antibodies(MoAbs) very specific to diquat (DQ) were produced. An immunogen was synthesized by binding DQ to bovine serum albumin via a diazo-coupled derivative. BALB/c mice were immunized i.p. monthly with 0.25mg of the immunogen for five months. Their spleen cells were fused with P3U1 myeloma cells and hybridoma clones secreting MoAbs were obtained. Two MoAbs were selected and subtyped to be IgM and IgG3. The MoAbs recognized DQ but did not bind to paraquat and other analogues at all. A datum obtained from a clinical sample demonstrates that an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay system using one of the MoAbs is useful in the practice of toxicological analysis.
Aggressive Behaviour among Patients Referred to a Psychogeriatric Service
Authors: Shah A. K.
Published: January 2017

The characteristics of a series of patients referred to a psychogeriatric service over a one-year period were examined. Patients exhibiting aggressive behaviour as a feature of the presentation were compared to those without. Aggressive patients were less likely to be living in their own homes, less likely to receive services, more likely to be referred from social services institutions, and be on multiple psychotropic drugs, particularly neuroleptics. The implication of this for adequate provision of psychiatric and social service is discussed. Only a small number of patients exhibited aggressive behaviour as a feature of their presentation.
An Increase in Violence among Psychiatric Inpatients: Real or Apparent?
Authors: Shah A. K.
Published: January 2017

Levels of violence amongst psychiatric in-patients appear to be increasing. Possible reasons for this are explored and include methodological differences between studies, increased staff awareness and perception of violence, changes in staff attitude, changes in psychiatric practice in recent years, staffing levels and increased violence in society generally.
Mild Head Injury is Not Always Mild; Implications for Damage Litigation
Authors: Blakely T. A. Blakely , Harrington D. E.
Published: January 2017

The traditional view that mild head injury involves an essentially reversible physiological process is examined and is found to be largely invalid. It is concluded that long-term impairment following mild head injury is fairly common and that the degree of impairment can be assessed clinically. Such an assessment involves a combination of objective electrophysiological and psychometric investigations as well as professional interpretation. With the use of this approach the possibility of malingering can be ruled out in most cases and significant impairment, when it exists, can be demonstrated beyond reasonable doubt.
2. Failure of a Feeding Jejunostomy
Authors: Opeskin K. , Lee K. A.
Published: January 2017

A healthy 16-year-old female pedestrian was hit by a motor vehicle. She sustained multiple injuries including severe head injury. She was admitted to hospital unconscious. There was no recovery of neurological function.

After a short period of time, a jejunostomy was performed for feeding purposes. The major clinical problem continued to be a feeding difficulty, with profuse diarrhoea occurring. At no stage was it possible to adequately nourish her. Hyperperistalsis was noted whilst in hospital.

She died just over three months after admission. Autopsy revealed an emaciated body weighing only 25kg. An upper jejunostomy was still present containing a No. 20 French catheter. The bulb had threaded down the small bowel so that it was situated 25cm proximal to the ileocaecal valve. The small bowel was empty. The cause of death was given as malnutrition due to failure of function of a feeding jejunostomy due to small bowel hyperperistalsis in an individual with diffuse brain trauma. This complication of feeding jejunostomy causing death from malnutrition has not previously been described in the English literature.
Biomechanics of Judicial Hanging: A Case Report
Authors: Nokes L D M , Roberts A , James D S
Published: January 2017

A prisoner in Washington State in the United States of America appealed against sentence of death by hanging on the grounds that it was ‘cruel and unusual’ and hence contravened the Eighth Amendment of the US Constitution. The man weighed 184 kg (406 lb) and it was suggested that the ‘drop’ proposed to effect judicial hanging might result in decapitation. This hypothesis was tested by applying simple biodynamic principles to the available data from past hangings. It was concluded that decapitation was a significant possibility.
The Place of Bigamy in the Pantheon of Crime?
Authors: Soothill Keith , Ackerley Elizabeth , Sanderson Barry , Peelo Moira
Published: January 2017

Bigamy is officially classified as a ‘sex offence’. The offence is rare and attracts little criminological attention, and the reaction of the courts has become more lenient in recent years, yet the media coverage of bigamy remains quite pervasive. An analysis of the criminal career profile over 32 years (1963–94) of the 42 bigamists convicted in 1973 indicates that they had no other convictions for bigamy and only two had convictions for a sex offence. Among the 25 persons with other convictions, the crimes of theft/handling stolen goods and fraud and forgery predominate. In fact, the criminal careers of these bigamists are more similar to the criminal careers of white collar offenders than of other sex offenders. It is suggested that by looking at convicted bigamists' criminal careers one can more appropriately categorize the crime as deception, and in this context we need to consider how to respond to its perpetrators and victims.
1. Accidental Decapitation: An Unusual Injury to a Passenger in a Vehicle
Authors: Kibayashi Kazuhiko , Yonemitsu Kosei , Honjyo Koji , Tsunenari Shigeyuki
Published: January 2017

A case of decapitation of a vehicle passenger in an accident on a highway is reported. Evaluation of roadside evidence and the deceased's injuries revealed that the victim was partially ejected from a broken passenger-side window as the vehicle spun out of control, decapitation being due to the impact of his head against a barrier stanchion on the shoulder of the road. An unfastened seat-belt, high-speed driving and the construction of the road barrier were contributory factors.
3. False Complaints of Sexual Assault: Recovered Memories of Childhood Sexual Abuse
Authors: Boakes Janet
Published: January 2017

False complaints are easily made and carry serious consequences for the accused. Many of those who make false claims sincerely believe the truth of what they report. Some are opportunistic and are consciously lying for personal gain. A special type of false allegation, the false memory syndrome, arises typically within therapy. People report the ‘recovery’ of memories of previously unknown childhood sexual abuse. The influence of practitioners' beliefs and practices in the eliciting of false ‘memories’ and of false complaints cannot be overlooked.

The problems of diagnosis, issues of confidentiality and the role of the expert witness as court educator are discussed.
Submitting medico-legal intra-partum CTG (I-P CTG) monitoring to the Bolam and Bolitho principles
Authors: Buttigieg George G
Published: January 2017

The article analyses some of the seeming weaknesses of the Bolam and Bolitho tests as applied to electronic foetal monitoring in labour, in the form of intra-partum CTG monitoring. Homing on to such aspects as confirmation of foetal hypoxia/acidosis, it evaluates the Bolam and Bolitho tests in the context of evidence-based medicine versus traditionally held views, which still hold their own in medical jurisprudence. Case law examples are quoted to illustrate various points. The discussion is of practical relevance both to the individual obstetrician as well as to national budgetary implications, bearing in mind, that, for example, in 2011, ‘birth asphyxia’ comprised 50% of the UK NHS litigation costs, and in the 2000–2010 decade, the same NHS forked out £3.1 billion for maternity medico-legal claims (the highest of any speciality), mostly involving cerebral palsy and CTG misinterpretation. The article concludes with suggestions to help level the potential extant equivocity between legal principle and medical practice. It also looks at the ruling in Montgomery v Lanarkshire Health Board, UK Supreme Court, and its challenge to Bolam. The implications pose a serious and overdue challenge to a test, born in 1957 and lacking the necessary qualities to serve many 21st century medical quandaries, including the ones raised here.
Blister Blight Disease of Tea
Authors: Portsmouth G. B.
Published: January 2017

When this serious disease of tea first appeared in Ceylon in 1946 little was known of its biology or control; but immediate steps were taken to remedy matters, and within four years efficient measures had been devised for the protection of tea in bearing and recovering from pruning. Spraying or dusting with copper fungicides is now routine practice, and research has turned to improving formulations and the timing of applications.
The Fruit Fly Problem in Australia
Authors: Edwards B. A. B.
Published: January 2017

Fruit flies causing blemishes and destruction are serious pests of pome and stone fruits. The indigenous Queensland fruit fly is still spreading, in spite of energetic control measures; eradication is considered impracticable, but containment may be achieved. The introduced Mediterranean fruit fly is being held in check by present remedies and ecological barriers; there is some hope that Australia may eventually be rid of it.
Control of Worms in Ruminants by Pasture Management
Authors: Taylor E. L.
Published: January 2017

The use of chemicals to control helminths has aimed at eradication of the parasites and has certainly reduced population numbers. Nevertheless, control by deliberate stimulation of immunity in ruminants, following moderate exposure to infection, is still important and involves principles derived from experimental epidemiology that should not be overlooked by the farmer seeking guidance in managing pastures and stock.
Grassland Improvement and Utilization in Nigeria
Authors: McIlroy R. J.
Published: January 2017

More than half the cattle of the world are raised in the tropics, where human undernutrition and malnutrition that could be remedied by greater use of animal products are still rife. Progress, which depends on better production and use of grass, has been limited hitherto by misuse of cattle, by overgrazing, and by disease. The potential output of beef from Nigeria is vast and could eventually lead to export business.
Banana Leaf Spot
Authors: Leach R.
Published: January 2017

Supporting many commercial practices for the control of pests and diseases of plants there now stands a massive body of descriptive and experimental work on the causal organisms, and well-documented research into competing protective measures. This holds for banana leaf spot. As knowledge has advanced, misconceptions have been corrected and conditions defined for the adequate protection and economic production of a quality crop.
Studies in Rainfall and Crops at Pretoria
Authors: Haylett D. G.
Published: January 2017

Only by long-term work is it possible to eliminate variable climatic effects and so to secure reliable data on such topics as those dealt with in the present article. Some of the studies begun in Pretoria in 1929 have been continued ever since and provide a basis for practical means of conserving water, plant nutrients and soil; they also serve to emphasize the agronomic importance of grass, both as sown pasture and natural veld.
Seed Potato Production in Western Germany
Authors: Kabiersch W.
Published: January 2017

Germany used to obtain certified seed potatoes from her eastern provinces, mainly from Pomerania. Western Germany now devotes about 65,000 ha. to this requirement, 90% in Lower Saxony, Bavaria and Schleswig-Holstein. Growers are concerned among other things with the control of those diseases and pests that could reduce the value of the crop; the chief problems arise from the presence of viruses, fungi and root-invading nematodes.
Political conflict, policing and the challenges of masculinity
Authors: Southern Neil
Published: January 2017

Policing is regarded as a masculine occupation. Traditionally women officers performed gendered duties, mostly working with women and children whilst men did ‘real’ police work. Policewomen’s roles have broadened considerably, despite being met with patterns of male officer resistance. This article explores the experiences of women officers who served in the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC during the Northern Ireland conflict. It examines three themes: first, women officers’ views on the suitability of females for police work; second, the idea that women officers possess attributes particularly well suited to certain policing roles; finally, officers’ experiences of working in a masculine environment.
Results from a Multiple Morbidities Testing Program Offering Rapid HIV Testing Bundled with Hepatitis and Sexually Transmitted Infection Testing
Authors: Reynolds Grace L. , Fisher Dennis G. , Napper Lucy E. , Marsh Kimberly A. , Willey Christine , Brooks Ryan
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Bundling human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) testing with tests for other infectious diseases such as hepatitis C, syphilis, or gonorrhea has been proposed as a method to recruit at-risk individuals into HIV testing. The objectives of this study were to determine ( 1) the types of at-risk clients who choose the rapid vs. standard HIV test when bundled with hepatitis and sexually transmitted infection (STI) tests, and ( 2) whether clients receiving a rapid HIV test are more likely to return on time for hepatitis and STI test results.

Methods.

We recruited individuals from drug treatment programs, methadone maintenance programs, needle-exchange programs, a community-based agency serving the gay and lesbian community, and the Center for Behavioral Research and Services' office-based testing facility at California State University, Long Beach from January 2005 through November 2007.

Results.

A total of 2,031 clients from a multiple morbidities testing program in Long Beach, California, were tested between January 2005 and November 2007. For clients receiving hepatitis and STI testing, the majority chose the standard HIV test. Clients who received a rapid HIV test returned in significantly fewer days than clients who received a standard HIV test. Injection drug users and sex traders were more likely to choose the standard HIV test and more likely to fail to return for test results on time.

Conclusion.

The rapid HIV test, in conjunction with hepatitis and STI tests, results in clients being more likely to return on time for hepatitis and STI results. Public health efforts should focus on acquainting high-risk clients with rapid HIV testing.
HIV Risk Behaviors and Testing History in Historically Black College and University Settings
Authors: Thomas Peter E. , Voetsch Andrew C. , Song Binwei , Calloway Denyce , Goode Carolyn , Mundey Lynette , Nobles Joanne , Sly Kaye , Smith Michelle R. , Williams Brenda , Shiloh Mattie , Patterson Kevin , Ward Sybil , Sullivan Patrick S. , Heffelfinger James D.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

From 2001 through 2005, African Americans accounted for the largest percentage of new cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/ acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in all age categories, especially among people aged 13 to 24 years. Although students attending historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) report many of the behaviors that promote HIV transmission, their risk behaviors and HIV testing practices have not been well-characterized. We compared the demographic and behavioral characteristics of people who have been previously tested for HIV with those of people tested for the first time in this demonstration project to increase HIV testing at HBCUs.

Methods.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and collaborating partners conducted rapid HIV testing and behavioral surveys at HBCUs in Arkansas, Georgia, Mississippi, and Washington, D.C., from January 2005 to April 2007. We recruited a convenience sample of students and community members at different campus venues including student health centers, dormitories, and student activity centers.

Results.

Our analysis included 5,291 people, 42% of whom reported they had never been tested for HIV. People who had been tested in the past were more likely to be older, believe they were at high risk for infection, have visited a health-care facility, and report behaviors that increased their risk of HIV infection.

Conclusion.

Respondents who believed they were at increased risk for HIV infection or reported behaviors that increased their risk for infection were more likely to have been tested for HIV. Future research should compare actual vs. perceived risk for HIV infection and contrast how each impacts HIV testing.
Incorporating Rapid HIV Testing into Partner Counseling and Referral Services
Authors: Begley Elin B. , Oster Alexandra M. , Song Binwei , Lesondak Linda , Voorhees Kelly , Esquivel Magdalena , Merrick Ronald L. , Carrel Jack , Sebesta Douglas , Vergeront James , Shrestha Dhana , Heffelfinger James D.
Published: January 2017

Objectives.

Partner counseling and referral services (PCRS) provide a unique opportunity to decrease transmission of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by notifying sex and drug-injection partners of HIV-infected individuals of their exposure to HIV. We incorporated rapid HIV testing into PCRS to reduce barriers associated with conventional HIV testing and identify undiagnosed HIV infection within this high-risk population.

Methods.

From April 2004 through June 2006, HIV-infected people (index clients) were interviewed, and their partners were notified of their potential exposure to HIV and offered rapid HIV testing at six sites in the United States. The numbers of index clients participating and the numbers of partners interviewed and tested were compared by site. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were performed.

Results.

A total of 2,678 index clients were identified, of whom 779 (29%) provided partner locating information. A total of 1,048 partners were elicited, of whom 463 (44%) were both interviewed and tested for HIV. Thirty-seven partners (8%) were newly diagnosed with HIV. The number of index clients interviewed to identify one partner with newly diagnosed HIV infection ranged from 10 to 137 at the participating sites.

Conclusions.

PCRS provides testing and prevention services to people at high risk for HIV infection. Incorporating rapid HIV testing into PCRS and identifying previously undiagnosed infections likely confer individual and public health benefits. Further evaluation is needed to determine the best methods of identifying partners with previously unrecognized HIV infection.