bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Informed Decisions Conservation Corridors and the Spread of Infectious Disease
Authors: Bienen Leslie
Published: March 2006

Reconnecting habitat will have consequences, in many forms and on many scales. The trick is to recognize these consequences, the negative ones as well as the positive, and understand them ahead of time, and in doing so to insure that human‐engineered reconnectivity does the least harm and the most good.
The Effect of Age on Lower Urinary Tract Function: A Study in Women
Authors: Pfisterer Mathias H.‐D. , Griffiths Derek J. , Schaefer, PhD Werner , Resnick Neil M.
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES: To identify age‐associated changes in female lower urinary tract function across a wide age spectrum, controlling for detrusor overactivity (DO).

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of a cross‐sectional study of DO and aging. Eligible volunteers were stratified by age group and presence of DO.

SETTING: Community‐based volunteers, evaluated in research laboratory.

PARTICIPANTS: Eighty‐five ambulatory, nondemented, community‐dwelling female volunteers, with and without bladder symptoms suggestive of DO, recruited by advertising, mean age 54 (range 22–90); 75% Caucasian, 21% African American.

MEASUREMENTS: Comprehensive assessment included bladder diary, uroflowmetry, and detailed videourodynamics. Predefined urodynamic and diary variables were examined for association with age and DO. Mean values of these variables were calculated for subgroups aged 20 to 39, 40 to 59, and 60 and older (14 subjects ≥70).

RESULTS: Maximum urethral closure pressure, detrusor contraction strength, and urine flow rate declined significantly with age (P<.001, P<.001, P=.006, respectively), regardless of whether DO was present. Most elderly individuals continued to empty their bladder almost completely, with normal voiding frequency. Mean number of nocturnal voids was less than one in all age groups. Bladder capacity did not decrease with age (mean 522 mL in oldest group) but was smaller in subjects with DO. Bladder sensation diminished significantly with age (P<.001) but was stronger in subjects with DO.

CONCLUSION: Female bladder and urethral function appear to deteriorate throughout adult life, whether DO is present or not. Specifically, detrusor contractility, bladder sensation, and urethral pressure decline. The common belief that bladder capacity shrinks with age may be related to DO rather than to aging itself.
Higher Vulnerable Elders Survey Scores Predict Death and Functional Decline in Vulnerable Older People
Authors: Min Lillian C. , Elliott Marc N. , Wenger Neil S. , Saliba Debra
Published: March 2006

OBJECTIVES: To examine whether the Vulnerable Elders Survey (VES‐13) score predicts risk of death and functional decline in vulnerable older adults.

DESIGN: Longitudinal evaluation with mean follow‐up of 11 months (range 8–14 months).

SETTING: Two managed care organizations in the United States.

PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred twenty community‐dwelling older people identified as having moderate to high risk of death and functional decline based on a VES‐13 score of 3 or higher. These older people were enrolled in the Assessing Care of Vulnerable Elders observational study.

MEASUREMENTS: Baseline: VES‐13 score, sex, income, cognitive score, and number of medical diagnoses. Outcome measures: functional decline and death.

RESULTS: VES‐13 scores strongly predicted death and functional decline (P<.001, area under the receiver operating curve=0.66). The estimated combined risk of death and decline rose with VES‐13 score, increasing from 23% for older people with a VES‐13 score of 3 to 60% for those with a score of 10. Other measures (sex, comorbidity) were not significant predictors of death or decline over this period after controlling for VES‐13 score.

CONCLUSION: The VES‐13 score is useful as a screening tool to detect risk of health deterioration in already vulnerable older populations, and higher scores reflect greater risk over a short follow‐up period.
Understanding Basis Risk in Insurance Contracts
Authors: Kerr Dana A.
Published: March 2006

Abstract

There is a tremendous amount of resources being tied up in litigation between insurance companies and policyholders over things like the extent of coverage for various loss scenarios or allegedly bad faith delays in settlement payments. The fact that policyholders formally dispute insurer coverage positions or claims payment strategies gives credibility to the idea that mismatches exist between what policyholders expect insurance policies to cover and what the insurance contracts actually provide as loss indemnification. This mismatch essentially represents insurance basis risk, the analysis of which can more accurately reflect the value and overall efficiency of insurance contracts and suggest factors that may influence policyholder dissatisfaction and consequently insurance contract disputes. This article takes a detailed look at insurance basis risk and finds that subjectivity plays a prominent role in its definition. Using Bayesian inference, it is shown how factors can affect the magnitude of insurance basis risk depending on the individual situation in which the mismatch between losses and coverage exists.
An Examination of Alternative Approaches to Risk Management and Insurance Research
Authors: Dorfman Mark S. , Tippins Steven C.
Published: March 2006

Abstract

Much current risk management and insurance research follows a pattern prescribed by the science paradigm. This article discusses some well‐recognized problems associated with the science paradigm, and then presents several alternatives that can supplement the science paradigm, thereby broadening and deepening the scope of risk management and insurance research and education.
The Investment Portfolio of the Life Insurance Industry in China: Peculiar Constraints and the Specialist Problem
Authors: Li Desmond W.P.
Published: March 2006

Abstract

This article describes the particular investment and legal constraints on the life insurance investment portfolio in China (the “Portfolio”) and investigates the specialist problem. The “specialist problem” is here defined as an agency problem as in information economics. In September 2004, the China Insurance Regulatory Commission (“CIRC”) announced that three of the four largest life insurance companies in China could not meet the mandatory capital adequacy requirement. The author found that although it is harder to manage the Portfolio because of the peculiar constraints, the main characteristic of the poor performance of the Portfolio—failing to meet the capital requirement—is due to the specialist problem, which is mainly due to the controlled economic system. In conclusion, the author suggests specialists and risk management strategies that can be implemented in China with immediate effect, taking into consideration data deficiency and the difficulty of contract enforcement in China.
Analysis of a Partially Observed Binary Covariate Process and a Censored Failure Time in the Presence of Truncation and Competing Risks
Authors: Tian Lu , Lagakos Stephen
Published: March 2006

SummaryWe develop methods for assessing the association between a binary time‐dependent covariate process and a failure time endpoint when the former is observed only at a single time point and the latter is right censored, and when the observations are subject to truncation and competing causes of failure. Using a proportional hazards model for the effect of the covariate process on the failure time of interest, we develop an approach utilizing EM algorithm and profile likelihood for estimating the relative risk parameter and cause‐specific hazards for failure. The methods are extended to account for other covariates that can influence the time‐dependent covariate process and cause‐specific risks of failure. We illustrate the methods with data from a recent study on the association between loss of hepatitis B e antigen and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma in a population of chronic carriers of hepatitis B.
Parametric and Nonparametric FDR Estimation Revisited
Authors: Wu Baolin , Guan Zhong , Zhao Hongyu
Published: March 2006

Summary Nonparametric and parametric approaches have been proposed to estimate false discovery rate under the independent hypothesis testing assumption. The parametric approach has been shown to have better performance than the nonparametric approaches. In this article, we study the nonparametric approaches and quantify the underlying relations between parametric and nonparametric approaches. Our study reveals the conservative nature of the nonparametric approaches, and establishes the connections between the empirical Bayes method and p‐value‐based nonparametric methods. Based on our results, we advocate using the parametric approach, or directly modeling the test statistics using the empirical Bayes method.
Improving Estimates of Genetic Maps: A Maximum Likelihood Approach
Authors: Stewart William C. L. , Thompson Elizabeth A.
Published: March 2006

SummaryAs a result of previous large, multipoint linkage studies there is a substantial amount of existing marker data. Due to the increased sample size, genetic maps estimated from these data could be more accurate than publicly available maps. However, current methods for map estimation are restricted to data sets containing pedigrees with a small number of individuals, or cannot make full use of marker data that are observed at several loci on members of large, extended pedigrees. In this article, a maximum likelihood (ML) method for map estimation that can make full use of the marker data in a large, multipoint linkage study is described. The method is applied to replicate sets of simulated marker data involving seven linked loci, and pedigree structures based on the real multipoint linkage study ofAbkevich et al.(2003,American Journal of Human Genetics73,1271–1281). The variance of the ML estimate is accurately estimated, and tests of both simple and composite null hypotheses are performed. An efficient procedure for combining map estimates over data sets is also suggested.
A Multivariate Two‐Sample Mean Test for Small Sample Size and Missing Data
Authors: Wu Yujun , Genton Marc G. , Stefanski Leonard A.
Published: March 2006

Summary We develop a new statistic for testing the equality of two multivariate mean vectors. A scaled chi‐squared distribution is proposed as an approximating null distribution. Because the test statistic is based on componentwise statistics, it has the advantage over Hotelling's T2 test of being applicable to the case where the dimension of an observation exceeds the number of observations. An appealing feature of the new test is its ability to handle missing data by relying on only componentwise sample moments. Monte Carlo studies indicate good power compared to Hotelling's T2 and a recently proposed test by Srivastava (2004, Technical Report, University of Toronto). The test is applied to drug discovery data.
Coregionalized Single‐ and Multiresolution Spatially Varying Growth Curve Modeling with Application to Weed Growth
Authors: Banerjee Sudipto , Johnson Gregg A.
Published: March 2006

Summary Modeling of longitudinal data from agricultural experiments using growth curves helps understand conditions conducive or unconducive to crop growth. Recent advances in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) now allow geocoding of agricultural data that help understand spatial patterns. A particularly common problem is capturing spatial variation in growth patterns over the entire experimental domain. Statistical modeling in these settings can be challenging because agricultural designs are often spatially replicated, with arrays of subplots, and interest lies in capturing spatial variation at possibly different resolutions. In this article, we develop a framework for modeling spatially varying growth curves as Gaussian processes that capture associations at single and multiple resolutions. We provide Bayesian hierarchical models for this setting, where flexible parameterization enables spatial estimation and prediction of growth curves. We illustrate using data from weed growth experiments conducted in Waseca, Minnesota, that recorded growth of the weed Setaria spp. in a spatially replicated design.
Estimating the Distribution of a Renewal Process from Times at which Events from an Independent Process Are Detected
Authors: Song Ruiguang , Karon John M. , White Edward , Goldbaum Gary
Published: March 2006

Summary The analysis of length‐biased data has been mostly limited to the interarrival interval of a renewal process covering a specific time point. Motivated by a surveillance problem, we consider a more general situation where this time point is random and related to a specific event, for example, status change or onset of a disease. We also consider the problem when additional information is available on whether the event intervals (interarrival intervals covering the random event) end within or after a random time period (which we call a window period) following the random event. Under the assumptions that the occurrence rate of the random event is low and the renewal process is independent of the random event, we provide formulae for the estimation of the distribution of interarrival times based on the observed event intervals. Procedures for testing the required assumptions are also furnished. We apply our results to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) test data from public test sites in Seattle, Washington, where the random event is HIV infection and the window period is from the onset of HIV infection to the time at which a less sensitive HIV test becomes positive. Results show that the estimator of the intertest interval length distribution from event intervals ending within the window period is less biased than the estimator from all event intervals; the latter estimator is affected by right truncation. Finally, we discuss possible applications to estimating HIV incidence and analyzing length‐biased samples with right or left truncated data.
Genetics and Genomics of Core Short Tandem Repeat Loci Used in Human Identity Testing
Authors: Butler John M.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT:Over the past decade, the human identity testing community has settled on a set of core short tandem repeat (STR) loci that are widely used for DNA typing applications. A variety of commercial kits enable robust amplification of these core STR loci. A brief history is presented regarding the selection of core autosomal and Y‐chromosomal STR markers. The physical location of each STR locus in the human genome is delineated and allele ranges and variants observed in human populations are summarized as are mutation rates observed from parentage testing. Internet resources for additional information on core STR loci are reviewed. Additional topics are also discussed, including potential linkage of STR loci to genetic disease‐causing genes, probabilistic predictions of sample ethnicity, and desirable characteristics for additional STR loci that may be added in the future to the current core loci. These core STR loci, which form the basis for DNA databases worldwide, will continue to play an important role in forensic science for many years to come.
A Quantitative Method for Estimation of Volume Changes in Arachnoid Foveae with Age
Authors: Duray Stephen M. , Martel Stacie S.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Age‐related changes of arachnoid foveae have been described, but objective, quantitative analyses are lacking. A new quantitative method is presented for estimation of change in total volume of arachnoid foveae with age. The pilot sample consisted of nine skulls from the Palmer Anatomy Laboratory. Arachnoid foveae were filled with sand, which was extracted using a vacuum pump. Mass was determined with an analytical balance and converted to volume. A reliability analysis was performed using intraclass correlation coefficients. The method was found to be highly reliable (intraobserver ICC=0.9935, interobserver ICC=0.9878). The relationship between total volume and age was then examined in a sample of 63 males of accurately known age from the Hamann–Todd collection. Linear regression analysis revealed no statistically significant relationship between total volume and age, or foveae frequency and age (α=0.05). Development of arachnoid foveae may be influenced by health factors, which could limit its usefulness in aging.
Three‐Dimensional Surface Topography Acquisition and Analysis for Firearm Identification
Authors: Senin Nicola , Groppetti Roberto , Garofano Luciano , Fratini Paolo , Pierni Michele
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: In the last decade, computer‐based systems for the comparison of microscopic firearms evidence have been the subject of considerable research work because of their expected capability of supporting the firearms examiner through the automated analysis of large amounts of evidence. The Integrated Ballistics Identification System, which is based on a two‐dimensional representation of the specimen surface, has been widely adopted in forensic laboratories worldwide. More recently, some attempts to develop systems based on three‐dimensional (3D) representations of the specimen surface have been made, both in the literature and as industrial products, such as BulletTRAX‐3D, but fundamental limitations in achieving fully automated identification remain.

This work analyzes the advantages and disadvantages of a 3D‐based approach by proposing an approach and a prototype system for firearms evidence comparison that is based on the acquisition and analysis of the 3D surface topography of specimens, with particular reference to cartridge cases. The concept of 3D virtual comparison microscope is introduced, whose purpose is not to provide fully automated identification, but to show how the availability of 3D shape information can provide a whole new set of verification means, some of them being described and discussed in this work, specifically, visual enhancement tools and quantitative measurement of shape properties, for supporting, not replacing, the firearm examiner in reaching the final decision.
Missing Persons–Missing Data: The Need to Collect Antemortem Dental Records of Missing Persons
Authors: Blau Soren , Hill Anthony , Briggs Christopher A. , Cordner Stephen M.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: The subject of missing persons is of great concern to the community with numerous associated emotional, financial, and health costs. This paper examines the forensic medical issues raised by the delayed identification of individuals classified as “missing” and highlights the importance of including dental data in the investigation of missing persons. Focusing on Australia, the current approaches employed in missing persons investigations are outlined. Of particular significance is the fact that each of the eight Australian states and territories has its own Missing Persons Unit that operates within distinct state and territory legislation. Consequently, there is a lack of uniformity within Australia about the legal and procedural framework within which investigations of missing persons are conducted, and the interaction of that framework with coronial law procedures. One of the main investigative problems in missing persons investigations is the lack of forensic medical, particularly, odontological input. Forensic odontology has been employed in numerous cases in Australia where identity is unknown or uncertain because of remains being skeletonized, incinerated, or partly burnt. The routine employment of the forensic odontologist to assist in missing person inquiries, has however, been ignored. The failure to routinely employ forensic odontology in missing persons inquiries has resulted in numerous delays in identification. Three Australian cases are presented where the investigation of individuals whose identity was uncertain or unknown was prolonged due to the failure to utilize the appropriate (and available) dental resources.

In light of the outcomes of these cases, we suggest that a national missing persons dental records database be established for future missing persons investigations. Such a database could be easily managed between a coronial system and a forensic medical institute. In Australia, a national missing persons dental records database could be incorporated into the National Coroners Information System (NCIS) managed, on behalf of Australia's Coroners, by the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine. The existence of the NCIS would ensure operational collaboration in the implementation of the system and cost savings to Australian policing agencies involved in missing person inquiries. The implementation of such a database would facilitate timely and efficient reconciliation of clinical and postmortem dental records and have subsequent social and financial benefits.
Microchip‐Based Cell Lysis and DNA Extraction from Sperm Cells for Application to Forensic Analysis
Authors: Bienvenue Joan M. , Duncalf Natalie , Marchiarullo Daniel , Ferrance Jerome P. , Landers James P.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: The current backlog of casework is among the most significant challenges facing crime laboratories at this time. While the development of next‐generation microchip‐based technology for expedited forensic casework analysis offers one solution to this problem, this will require the adaptation of manual, large‐volume, benchtop chemistry to small volume microfluidic devices. Analysis of evidentiary materials from rape kits where semen or sperm cells are commonly found represents a unique set of challenges for on‐chip cell lysis and DNA extraction that must be addressed for successful application. The work presented here details the development of a microdevice capable of DNA extraction directly from sperm cells for application to the analysis of sexual assault evidence. A variety of chemical lysing agents are assessed for inclusion in the extraction protocol and a method for DNA purification from sperm cells is described. Suitability of the extracted DNA for short tandem repeat (STR) analysis is assessed and genetic profiles shown. Finally, on‐chip cell lysis methods are evaluated, with results from fluorescence visualization of cell rupture and DNA extraction from an integrated cell lysis and purification with subsequent STR amplification presented. A method for on‐chip cell lysis and DNA purification is described, with considerations toward inclusion in an integrated microdevice capable of both differential cell sorting and DNA extraction. The results of this work demonstrate the feasibility of incorporating microchip‐based cell lysis and DNA extraction into forensic casework analysis.
Pyrotechnic Reaction Residue Particle Analysis
Authors: Kosanke Kenneth L. , Dujay Richard C. , Kosanke Bonnie J.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Pyrotechnic reaction residue particle (PRRP) production, sampling and analysis are all very similar to that for primer gunshot residue. In both cases, the preferred method of analysis uses scanning electron microscopy to locate suspect particles and then uses energy dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy to characterize the particle's constituent chemical elements.

There are relatively few times when standard micro‐analytical chemistry performed on pyrotechnic residues may not provide sufficient information for forensic investigators. However, on those occasions, PRRP analysis provides a greatly improved ability to discriminate between materials of pyrotechnic origin and other unrelated substances also present. The greater specificity of PRRP analysis is the result of its analyzing a large number of individual micron‐sized particles, rather than producing only a single integrated result such as produced using standard micro‐analytical chemistry. For example, PRRP analyses are used to demonstrate its ability to successfully (1) discriminate between pyrotechnic residues and unrelated background contamination, (2) identify that two different pyrotechnic compositions had previously been exploded within the same device, and (3) establish the chronology of an incident involving two separate and closely occurring explosions.
Neutral Heroin Impurities from Tetrahydrobenzylisoquinoline Alkaloids
Authors: Toske Steven G. , Cooper Samuel D. , Morello David R. , Hays Patrick A. , Casale John F. , Casale Ellen
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Laudanosine, reticuline, codamine, and laudanine are members of the tetrahydrobenzylisoquinoline family of natural products. These alkaloids are present in the opium poppy, Papaver somniferum, and are subsequently found as impurities in clandestinely processed morphine. Morphine is then synthesized to heroin using hot acetic anhydride. During the course of this study, it was determined that these four tetrahydrobenzylisoquinolines undergo degradation to a series of 18 neutral impurities when subjected to hot acetic anhydride. Based on the degradation pathway, these new impurities were categorized into two sets of impurities called the C1‐acetates compounds and the stilbene compounds. Synthesis, isolation, and structural elucidation information is provided for the tetrahydrobenzylisoquinoline alkaloids, and the new neutral impurities have been studied. Several hundred authentic heroin samples were analyzed using an established heroin signature program method. This methodology features the detection of trace neutral impurities present in heroin samples. It was determined that all 18 new impurities were detected in various quantities in four different types of heroin samples. Analytical results featuring these new impurities are reported for South American‐, Southwest Asian‐, Mexican‐, and Southeast Asian‐type heroin samples. These new impurities, coupled with other established forensic markers, enhance the ability to classify illicit heroin samples.
Using the Acetabulum to Estimate Age at Death of Adult Males*
Authors: Rissech Carme , Estabrook George F. , Cunha Eugenia , Malgosa Assumpció
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT:The acetabular region is often present and adequately preserved in adult human skeletal remains. Close morphological examination of the 242 left male os coxae from the identified collection of Coimbra (Portugal) has enabled the recognition of seven variables that can be used to estimate age at death. This paper describes these variables and argues their appropriateness by analyzing the correlation between these criteria and the age, the intra‐ and interobserver consistence, and the accuracy in age prediction using Bayesian inference to estimate age of identified specimens. Results show significant close correlation between the acetabular criteria and age, nonsignificant differences in intra‐ and interobserver test, and 89% accuracy in Bayes prediction. Obtained estimated age of the specimens had similar accuracy in all ages. These results indicate that these seven variables, based on the acetabular area, are potentially useful to estimate age at death for adult specimens.
Genetic Variation in Hemp and Marijuana (Cannabis sativa L.) According to Amplified Fragment Length Polymorphisms*
Authors: Datwyler Shannon L. , Weiblen George D.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Cannabis sativa L. (Cannabaceae) is one of the earliest known cultivated plants and is important in the global economy today as a licit and an illicit crop. Molecular markers distinguishing licit and illicit cultivars have forensic utility, but no direct comparison of hemp and marijuana amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) has been made to date. Genetic variation was surveyed in three populations of fiber hemp and a potent cultivar of marijuana using AFLP markers. Ten primer pairs yielded 1206 bands, of which 88% were polymorphic. Eighteen bands represented fixed differences between all fiber populations and the drug cultivar. These markers have practical utility for (1) establishing conspiracy in the cultivation and distribution of marijuana, (2) identifying geographic sources of seized drugs, and (3) discriminating illegal, potent marijuana cultivars from hemp where the cultivation of industrial hemp is permitted.
Histological Age Prediction from the Femur in a Contemporary Dutch Sample*
Authors: Maat George J. R. , Maes Ann , Aarents M. Job , Nagelkerke Nico J. D.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: This paper presents an uncomplicated and minimally invasive method for age‐at‐death determination in a contemporary Dutch (West European) population, by modifying the approach of assessment based on the age‐related remodeling of bone tissue. In contrast to the usual “osteon count,” a “non‐remodeled tissue count” is undertaken. To optimize the method, proper zeroing of the polarization filter set of the microscope is essential. Instructions for setting the filters are given. A sample of femoral shaft segments totaling 162 individuals with ages ranging from 15 to 96 years is analyzed. Subperiosteal quantitative assessments are recorded at the most anterior point of the femoral shaft and also at points 25° to the left and to the right of that point. Interobserver agreement in the assessments shows an acceptable degree of correlation. Bone remodeling with age does not progress in a linear, but in a curvilinear manner. Dependence of predicted age on nonremodeled surface counts in the analyzed areas of the anterior cortex of the femur appears to be significant. A set of regression equations is given. Sex can be ignored in age prediction. The small but statistically significant dependence of predicted age on cadaver length corresponds with the present strong secular increase in stature in the Netherlands. A concise catalogue with micrograph examples for every 10‐year period in life is available upon request.
Relationships Between Concentrations of Cocaine and Its Hydrolysates in Peripheral Blood, Heart Blood, Vitreous Humor and Urine
Authors: Duer Wayne C. , Spitz Daniel J. , McFarland Shallyn
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Cocaine is known to degrade in vivo and in vitro by several hydrolytic mechanisms. A previous study found that the initial amount of cocaine added to plasma could be accounted for by summing the molar concentrations of cocaine's hydrolysis products and the cocaine remaining after hydrolysis. The present study was undertaken to investigate whether or not relationships might exist between such molar concentration sums for different postmortem bodily fluids. Determinations of cocaine, benzoylecgonine, ecgonine methyl ester, and ecgonine were performed using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) with heart blood, femoral blood, vitreous humor (VH), and urine (UR). The results demonstrate a strong correlation between blood and VH concentrations (correlation coefficients of 0.88–0.94), weak correlation between the UR and blood concentrations (correlation coefficients of 0.61–0.64), and weak correlation between UR and VH concentrations (correlation coefficient of 0.59). The results demonstrate that ecgonine is a significant hydrolysate with concentrations on the same order of magnitude as benzoylecgonine. The results are consistent with rapid distribution of the parent drug and its hydrolysates in the blood and VH. The strong correlation between the blood and VH demonstrates that VH is an important medium for toxicology testing when attempting to make a determination of cocaine intoxication.
The Use of Polilight® in the Detection of Seminal Fluid, Saliva, and Bloodstains and Comparison with Conventional Chemical‐Based Screening Tests
Authors: Vandenberg Nicholas , van Oorschot Roland A. H.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: Biological stains can be difficult to detect at crime scenes or on items recovered from crime scenes. The use of a versatile light source may assist in their detection. The ability of Polilight® to locate potential semen, saliva, and blood stains on a range of substrates and at different dilutions was tested. We also tested the use of Polilight® in comparison with conventional chemical‐based presumptive screening tests such as acid phosphatase (AP), Phadebas®, and luminol, often used in casework for detecting potential semen, saliva, and blood stains, respectively. The Polilight® was able to locate stains that were not apparent to the naked eye. The color of the material on which a stain is deposited can have an effect on the detectibility of the stain. The Polilight® was found to be comparable with the AP and Phadebas® tests in terms of its sensitivity. In a comparative study between the AP test and Polilight® on 40 casework exhibits, one false‐negative result was observed when using the Polilight®. On a series of mock casework exhibits it was determined that the Polilight® can be used successfully to locate saliva stains for DNA analysis. The sensitivity of luminol for detecting potential bloodstains was greater than that of Polilight®; however the Polilight® has particular application in instances where a bloodstain may have been concealed with paint. Overall, the Polilight® is a relatively safe, simple, noninvasive, and nondestructive technique suitable for use in forensic casework.
Fatal Dog Maulings Associated With Infant Swings
Authors: Chu Albert Y. , Ripple Mary G. , Allan Carol H. , Thogmartin Jon R. , Fowler David R.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: We present three cases of fatal dog maulings of infants placed in mobile infant swings, a phenomenon not previously described in the literature. In each case, the victim was left in a mobile swing, unsupervised by an adult, and the attacking dog was a family pet. Case 1 involved an 18‐day‐old male infant attacked by a pit bull; Case 2 involved a 3‐month‐old male infant attacked by a Chow Chow and/or a Dachshund, and Case 3 involved an 18‐day‐old female infant attacked by a Labrador–pit bull mix. These cases not only underscore the importance of not leaving young children unattended in the presence of pet dogs, but also raise the possibility that mobile swings may trigger a predatory response in dogs and thus may represent an additional risk factor for dog attack.
GHB Free Acid: I. Solution Formation Studies and Spectroscopic Characterization by 1HNMR and FT‐IR
Authors: DeFrancesco James V. , Witkowski Mark R. , Ciolino Laura A.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: In forensic evidence, γ‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB) has frequently been encountered in one of its salt forms (γ‐hydroxybutyrate), but has also been encountered in its free acid form (GHB). Owing to the physical properties, encounters of the free acid have been largely restricted to forensic exhibits comprising aqueous solutions, such as acidic beverages that have been “spiked” or formulated with GHB salts or γ‐butyrolactone (GBL). The analysis of GHB free acid presents particular difficulties including the potential for altering the original proportions of GHB free acid, GHB carboxylate, and GBL in the course of analysis, and discrimination between GHB free acid and carboxylate forms. In this work, the formation of GHB free acid in aqueous solutions (water and/or D2O) was studied as a function of solution pH. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR) and Fourier‐transform infrared spectrometry (FT‐IR) measurements were obtained on freshly prepared mixtures of NaGHB and HCl stock solutions representing a series of points along the GHB titration curve. Both 1HNMR and FT‐IR were shown to track the changing proportions of GHB free acid and carboxylate forms as a function of pH, while simultaneously monitoring for the formation of the lactone (GBL). The results were consistent with acid–base conversion behavior for a carboxylic acid. 1HNMR was shown to provide an ideal means for analysis of aqueous‐based GHB/GBL forensic exhibits based on simple dilution of the neat liquid exhibit, without altering the original proportions of GHB free acid, carboxylate, and GBL in the samples.
The Identification of the Emulsifier Component of Emulsion Explosives by Liquid Chromatography‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: De Tata David , Collins Peter , Campbell Neil
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: The widespread availability of emulsion explosives for commercial blasting has inevitably lead to their diversion for criminal misuse. Present techniques for the characterization of emulsion explosives and their residues is generally based on the detection and identification of the oxidizer and the hydrocarbon components. Use of these components is problematic for residue identification because ammonium nitrate, waxes, and oils are relatively common in the urban environment and even their co‐detection does not exclude them being sourced from materials other than explosives. The detection of the emulsifier component offers increased evidential value as certain emulsifiers used in explosive formulations are manufactured for that specific use, or have limited environmental distribution. In the current study liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry (LC‐MS) was utilized for the characterization of two emulsifiers in common use; ethanolamine adducts of polyisobutylene succinic anhydride and sorbitol mono‐oleate (SMO). The LC‐MS technique enabled the detection of both emulsifiers in preblast samples; however, only SMO was detected in postblast residues. The analysis of the hydrocarbon component by gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry was achieved in the same procedure.
The Application of Miniplex Primer Sets in the Analysis of Degraded DNA from Human Skeletal Remains*
Authors: Opel Kerry L. , Chung Denise T. , Drábek Jiří , Tatarek Nancy E. , Jantz Lee Meadows , McCord Bruce R.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: A new set of multiplexed PCR primers has been applied to the analysis of human skeletal remains to determine their efficacy in analyzing degraded DNA. These primer sets, known as Miniplexes, produce shorter amplicons (50–280 base pairs (bp)) than standard short tandem repeat (STR) kits, but still utilize the 13 CODIS STR loci, providing results that are searchable on national DNA databases. In this study, a set of 31 different human remains were exposed to a variety of environmental conditions, extracted, and amplified with commercial and Miniplex DNA typing kits. The amplification efficiency of the Miniplex sets was then compared with the Promega PowerPlex® 16 system. Sixty‐four percent of the samples generated full profiles when amplified with the Miniplexes, while only 16% of the samples generated full profiles with the Powerplex® 16 kit. Complete profiles were obtained for 11 of the 12 Miniplex loci with amplicon sizes less than 200 bp. These data suggest smaller PCR amplicons may provide a useful alternative to mitochondrial DNA for anthropological and forensic analysis of degraded DNA from human skeletal remains.
Suicide Associated With the Antichrist Delusion
Authors: Reeves Roy R. , Liberto Vincent
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: The Antichrist delusion is a relatively infrequently observed religious delusion. Some cases of the Antichrist delusion have been associated with violence toward others. The aim of this article is to document a case of suicide secondary to the delusion. At age 17 a woman with no history of mental illness developed the belief that she was the Antichrist. For several years she did not discuss this with anyone and functioned appropriately in society. Then, at age 32, after the birth of her first child, her delusion intensified and she ultimately committed suicide to protect others from the harm she felt she was destined to cause them. The Antichrist delusion as a misidentification state may involve danger to a patient who harbors the delusion, as well as to other individuals.
Test of an Alternative Method for Determining Sex from the Os Coxae: Applications for Modern Americans*
Authors: Listi Ginesse A. , Elizabeth Bassett H.
Published: March 2006

ABSTRACT: A recently proposed method for determining sex from the os coxae reports a 98% success rate using European collections. The purposes of the present study are to (1) evaluate the success rate of this proposed method using modern American os coxae from different population subgroups; (2) compare the success rate of the new method with that obtained using traditional techniques; and (3) determine replicability of the new method and interobserver error. Eight hundred and seventy‐six adult left os coxae were independently evaluated by both authors. Summary statistics for sex classifications were calculated for the total sample and for a random sample of 400 individuals. The impact of sex and ancestry on the success of each method was calculated on the random sample using Pearson's χ2 values. Results demonstrate that for modern American os coxae, neither sex nor race have a significant impact on the success rate for either the new or traditional methods (p<0.01). Additionally, the success rate of the new method is comparable with that obtained using traditional techniques. Finally, interobserver error using the new method for overall sex determination is low.
Allele Frequencies of Penta D and Penta E Loci in Afghanistan Population
Authors: Berti Andrea , Barni Filippo , Virgili Antonino , D'Errico Giancarlo , Rapone Cesare , Iacovacci Giuseppe , Lago Giampietro
Published: March 2006

POPULATION: Afghanistan (Pashtun, Tajik, and Hazars; n=120).
Supplemented Data on Mutation Rates in 33 Autosomal Short Tandem Repeat Polymorphisms
Authors: Henke Lotte , Henke Jürgen
Published: March 2006

POPULATION: 106–8598 meioses studied in German Caucasians.
Polymorphism of Three Short Tandem Repeat Loci in Chinese Population
Authors: Ran Peng , Zhang Beilei , Zhou Bin , Bai Peng , Zhou Xunping , Chen Kun , Li Yingbi , Hou Yiping , Wu Jin
Published: March 2006

POPULATION: Chinese Han.
Genetic Variation for 15 Short Tandem Repeat Loci in an El Salvadoran (Central America) Population
Authors: Monterrosa Juan Carlos , Morales Josefina A. , García Oscar
Published: March 2006

POPULATION: El Salvador (n=294–296).
Changes in the volume and density of calvarial split bone grafts after alveolar ridge augmentation
Authors: Smolka Wenko , Eggensperger Nicole , Carollo Vincenzo , Ozdoba Christoph , Iizuka Tateyuki
Published: March 2006

Objectives: One main problem occurring after bone grafting is resorption, leading to insufficient bone volume and quality, and may subsequently cause dental implant failure. Comparison of graft volume and bone density of iliac crest and calvarial transplants determined by animal studies demonstrates significantly lower resorption of bone grafts harvested from the skull. This paper is the first clinical study evaluating bone volume and density changes of calvarial split bone grafts after alveolar ridge reconstruction.

Material and methods: Bone volume and density were determined using CT scans and the software program Dicom Works© in a total of 51 calvarial grafts after alveolar ridge augmentation in 15 patients. CT scans were taken in all 15 patients immediately after grafting (T0) and before implantation after a postoperative period of 6 months (T1). In five patients (26 calvarial grafts), a 1‐year follow‐up was performed (T2).

Results: A mean volume reduction of 16.2% at T1 (15 patients) and 19.2% at T2 (five patients) was observed. Bone density was high – about 1000 Hounsfield units – and did not change during the 1‐year period. At the time of implantation, 41 transplants were classified as quality 1 bone and 10 as quality 2–3 bone. Grafting area and the technique used for grafting (inlay or onlay graft) did not affect the postoperative bone volume reduction. Generalized osteoporosis did not increase the resorption rate of calvarial transplants.

Conclusion: Based on these findings, calvarial split bone grafts are a promising alternative for alveolar ridge reconstruction in dental implantology.
Dental implants placement in conjunction with osteotome sinus floor elevation: a 12‐year life‐table analysis from a prospective study on 588 ITI®implants
Authors: Ferrigno Nicola , Laureti Mauro , Fanali Stefano
Published: March 2006

Objectives: The purpose of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical success of placing ITI dental implants in the posterior maxilla using the osteotome technique.

Material and methods: All implants were placed following a one‐stage protocol (elevating the sinus floor and placing the implant at the same time). Five hundred and eighty‐eight implants were placed in 323 consecutive patients with a residual vertical height of bone under the sinus ranging from 6 to 9 mm. The mean observation follow‐up period was 59.7 months (with a range of 12–144 months). This prospective study not only calculated the 12‐year cumulative survival and success rates for 588 implants by life‐table analysis but also the cumulative success rates for implant subgroups divided per implant length and the percentage of sinus membrane perforation were evaluated.

Results: The 12‐year cumulative survival and success rates were 94.8% and 90.8%, respectively. The analysis of implant subgroups showed slightly more favourable cumulative success rates for 12 mm long implants (93.4%) compared with 10 and 8 mm long implants (90.5% and 88.9%, respectively). During the study period, only 13 perforations of the Schneiderian membrane were detected with a perforation rate of 2.2% (13 perforations/601 treated sites). Ten perforations out of 13 were caused during the first half of the study period and of these, seven were detected during the first 3 years of this prospective study.

Conclusion: Based on the results and within the limits of the present study, it can be concluded that ITI implant placement in conjunction with osteotome sinus floor elevation represents a safe modality of treating the posterior maxilla in areas with reduced bone height subjacent to the sinus as survival and success rates were maintained above 90% for a mean observation period of ≈60 months. Shorter implants (8 mm implants) did not significantly fail more than longer ones (10 and 12 mm implants): the differences were small compared with the number of events; hence, no statistical conclusion could be drawn. But, from the clinical point of view, the predictable use of short implants in conjunction with osteotome sinus floor elevation may reduce the indication for complex invasive procedures like sinus lift and bone grafting procedures.
The in vitro effect of different PRP concentrations on osteoblasts and fibroblasts
Authors: Graziani Filippo , Ivanovski Saso , Cei Silvia , Ducci Francesco , Tonetti Maurizio , Gabriele Mario
Published: March 2006

Abstract Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the biological rationale for the use of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) by evaluating the effect of different concentrations of PRP on osteoblasts (OB) and fibroblasts (FB) function in vitro.

Material and methods: PRP was obtained from volunteer donors using standard protocols. Primary human cultures of oral FBs and OBs were exposed to both activated and non‐activated plasma as well as various concentrations of PRP (2.5 ×, 3.5 × and max (4.2–5.5 ×)). Cell proliferation was evaluated after 24 and 72 h using an MTT proliferation assay. Production of osteocalcin (OCN), osteoprotegerin (OPG) and transforming growth factor β1 (TGF‐β1) was evaluated in OB after 24 and 72 h. Statistical analysis was performed using one‐way ANOVA.

Results: PRP‐stimulated cell proliferation in both OBs and FBs. The effect of different PRP concentrations on cell proliferation was most notable at 72 h. The maximum effect was achieved with a concentration of 2.5 ×, with higher concentrations resulting in a reduction of cell proliferation. Upregulation of OCN levels and downregulation of OPG levels were noted with increasing PRP concentrations at both 24 and 72 h. TGF‐β1 levels were stimulated by increasing concentrations of PRP, with the increased levels being maintained at 72 h.

Conclusions: PRP preparations exert a dose‐specific effect on oral FBs and OBs. Optimal results were observed at a platelet concentration of 2.5 ×, which was approximately half of the maximal concentrate that could be obtained. Increased concentrations resulted in a reduction in proliferation and a suboptimal effect on OB function. Hence, different PRP concentrations may have an impact on the results that can be obtained in vivo.