bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Required Coefficient of Friction Versus Top-Piece/Outsole Hardness and Walking Speed: Significance of Correlations
Authors: Fendley AE , Medoff HP
Published: August 2015

Slip resistance of shoes in relation to walkway surfaces is of importance to forensic science. Pedestrians adapt to changes in shoe construction, walkway, and interface characteristics by altering patterns of movement. The instantaneous ratio of tangential to normal ground reaction forces (required coefficient of friction) is affected by such movement alterations. Slip probability depends on the ratio of required to available coefficient of friction (μr/μa). However, there are practical problems in application of this concept. Adequate assessments of the safety of footwear/walkway-surface interactions should take into account subject tests of μr in actual walking scenarios as well as material tests of μa and relevant footwear/walkway characteristics.

Based on the literature, this paper discusses the relationship of μr to top-piece/outsole hardness and walking speed. A pilot experiment is described in which subjects walked across a force plate at a series of increasing speeds wearing shoes with the top-piece/outsoles replaced by various test materials. Correlations of μr versus top-piece/outsole hardness and walking speed are presented from data analysis of a single representative subject. The paper explores how biomechanical adaptations of the subject to his foot-wear may account for the fair-moderate correlations observed.
A Target Fiber Study Using Cinema and Car Seats as Recipient Items
Authors: Palmer R , Chinherende V
Published: August 2015

A target fiber study using two garments purchased from two major UK clothing retail chains was carried out using cinema and car seats as potential recipient items. A total of 17 acrylic fibers matching one of the target garments and six cotton fibers matching the remaining target garment were found on the recipient items. The limitation of using white light comparison microscopy alone is demonstrated. The findings of this study illustrate that the evidential value of matching fibers is heavily dependent on the number and type of tests used in a given comparison.
A Free Zone Capillary Electrophoresis Method for the Quantitation of Common Illicit Drug Samples
Authors: Walker JA , Marché HL , Newby N , Bechtold EJ
Published: August 2015

This paper presents a simple quantitative method using capillary electrophoresis (CE) with liquid cooling to analyze commonly seized illicit substances. Fourteen common basic drugs were screened using a 200mM sodium phosphate run buffer. Linearity and reproducibility are shown for cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD), and phencyclidine (PCP). Known adulterants and impurities did not interfere with these drug compounds. Comparisons of CE quantitations with results from other laboratory techniques demonstrate the reliable adaptation of CE to the forensic laboratory.
Homicide Among Youth and Young Adults, 15 Through 29 Years of Age. A Report of 138 Cases from Paris and Its Suburbs, 1991–1993
Authors: Fornes P , Druilhe L , Lecomte D
Published: August 2015

Recent surveys of some metropolitan areas in the United States have shown an increasing death rate as a result of violence among adolescents and young adults. In France, there has been no systematic research into the characteristics of homicide among youth and young adults. We have attempted from autopsy and police records to determine the incidence and the circumstances of homicides in the 15 to 29 age group, in Paris and its suburbs, during the past 3 years.

The main results are as follows:
Sex Determination by Discriminant Function Analysis of the Petrous Portion of the Temporal Bone
Authors: Kalmey JK , Rathbun TA
Published: August 2015

Morphometric variables on the human petrous portion of the temporal bone can provide identification of sex in fragmented skeletal remains. The petrous frequently survives circumstances that cause skeletal fragmentation. Using discriminant function analysis of seven combinations of five variables, up to 74% accuracy can be obtained in determining sex from the petrous portion.
Thin-Layer Chromatography of Writing Inks—Quality Control Considerations
Authors: Lewis JA
Published: August 2015

Quality control procedures for thin-layer chromotrography (TLC) are offered to increase reproducibility and dependability of results. During preparation of a TLC ink standard library, several types of inconsistencies were observed. Observations of more than 100 chromatograms of writing inks indicated the need for the institution of quality control procedures. Procedures were developed to ensure proper solvent selection, TLC plate selection, and proper photographic recording of TLC plates. Implementing quality control procedures in TLC enables the document examiner and forensic chemist to achieve these results.
Use of REMEDi HS in Emergency Toxicology for a Rapid Estimate of Drug Concentrations in Urine, Serum, and Gastric Samples
Authors: Ohtsuji M , Lai JS , Binder SR , Kondo T , Takayasu T , Ohshima T
Published: August 2015

The REMEDi HS is a broad spectrum drug identification system, designed for emergency toxicology screening and forensic applications. The total analysis time is about 20 min. The current library has 555 drugs and metabolites. The system has a software routine that uses an internal standard (IS) to perform quantitative analysis for target compounds when calibrators are available; further, response factors (RF) are supplied for a rapid estimate of drug concentrations when calibrators are unavailable. In the present study, the concentrations of six drugs (bromisovalum, ephedrine, hydroxyzine, diphenhydramine, ranitidine, and lidocaine) and a metabolite of lidocaine (glycinexylidide) were determined using both methods. The slopes of the regression lines between the rapid estimate method and the IS method were generally within 20% of unity, in agreement with the manufacturer's claim. Semiquantitative estimates based on RF also showed good agreement with results obtained using multipoint calibration. These estimates were sufficient for clinical differentiation of routine and toxic levels. Our study demonstrated that the REMEDi HS is particularly useful for a rapid estimate of drug concentrations in the samples from emergency cases when calibrators are not readily available. Our study also showed that this system can be used for the therapeutic monitoring of ranitidine, bromisovalum, lidocaine, and diphenhydramine.
Septic Tank Burial: Not Just Another Skeleton in the Closet
Authors: Lew EO , Bannach BG , Rodriguez WC
Published: August 2015

Backed-up toilets lead to the discovery of a skeleton in the septic tank. Our challenges began with the excavation of this unconventional grave and progressed through recovery and examination of the skeleton, determination of the cause and manner of death, and ultimately, identification of the victim. Main aspects of the septic tank system are summarized, including functional theory, physical design and components, and general comments on use and maintenance. We discuss some basic principles applicable to the excavation and examination of any human skeletal remains, and offer a general approach to identification of the decedent.
Identification of War Victims from Mass Graves in Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina by the Use of Standard Forensic Methods and DNA Typing
Authors: Primorac D , Andelinovic S , Definis-Gojanovic M , Drmic I , Rezic B , Baden MM , Kennedy MA , Schanfield MS , Skakel SB , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

The postmortem remains of sixty-one war victims were excavated from 6 mass graves in Bosnia and Herzegovina one and a half years after interment. Using standard identification methods, including the matching of medical and dental records, the recognition of distinguishing characteristics such as the use of clothing and belongings, and video superimposition, 35 persons were identified. For the remaining 26 persons identification efforts continue. DNA typing was performed at the HLA DQA1 locus and five PM system loci. Results from DNA typing were confirmed by other methods. DNA profiles of family members of 150 missing persons are now being developed using the 6 loci. These DNA profiles will then be compared with those generated from the bone and teeth remains of the unidentified victims.
DNA Typing and Blood Transfusion
Authors: Brauner P
Published: August 2015

As the result of a traffic accident, a man was seriously injured. Investigators found him outside the vehicle he had presumably driven. He was taken to the hospital in an unconscious state and there received a number of blood transfusions.

Bloodstains found inside the car were collected and sent for comparison with a posttransfusion blood sample of the victim (suspect). As the car involved in the accident had been stolen, the police wished to ascertain whether there was a link between the suspect and the car. No other evidence, such as fingerprints, was found in the car. Furthermore, being unconscious, the suspect was unable to give a statement.

The bloodstains from the car and the blood of the victim were tested by conventional blood group assays and DNA (RFLP and PCR). By conventional blood group assays, the effects of the blood transfusion were seen. On the other hand, the effects of the transfusion were not at all evident in the DNA assays. The implications of these results are discussed.

Transfused blood, even in large quantities, did not alter the DNA profile of the recipient in this case.
The Importance of Thin Layer Chromatography in the Analysis of Reactive Dyes Released from Wool Fibers
Authors: Wiggins KG , Crabtree SR , March BM
Published: August 2015

Samples of reactively-dyed wool were obtained from a range of manufacturers and distributors and “digested” by alkaline hydrolysis to yield colored solutions. Results demonstrate that thin layer chromatographic analysis of reactive dyes yields important additional information, over and above that obtained from techniques such as comparison microscopy and visible light microspectrophotometry. Colored solutions obtained from single fibers were analyzed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and reproducible results were obtained from a range of fiber lengths.
Rodents, Human Remains, and North American Hantaviruses: Risk Factors and Prevention Measures for Forensic Science Personnel—a Review
Authors: Michael Fink T
Published: August 2015

In 1993, a previously unrecognized hantavirus was identified as the cause for a severe form of respiratory distress later termed Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). In the past two years, several distinct hantaviruses, of which many are pathogenic, have been found in rodent populations in the US. Rodents shed the virus in their saliva, urine, and feces. Humans usually become infected after inhaling either aerosolized droplets of urine or particulates contaminated with rodent excreta. Rodents, including those identified as hantavirus reservoirs, will often infest and disturb human remains. Forensic science personnel should recognize the potential HPS risks associated with rodent contaminated remains and consider using High Efficiency Particulate Air-filter respirators, disinfectants, and insecticides to minimize risks.
Visualization of a Restored Serial Number Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
Authors: Mongan AL
Published: August 2015

The restoration of obliterated serial numbers by both chemical and physical means has been well documented in the field of forensic science. An interesting case of a severely obliterated serial number was submitted to our laboratory for restoration. Despite development with Fry's etchant, the visualization, documentation, and photography of the restored serial number proved difficult because of the deep “pock” type of obliteration. The scanning electron microscope was explored as a potential means for assisting in the examination of the restored serial number. The scanning electron microscope successfully provided a simple means for the visualization, documentation, and photography of the restored serial number.
Traffic Fatality Related to the Use of Methylenedioxymethamphetamine
Authors: Crifasi J , Long C
Published: August 2015

A recent traffic fatality has been attributed to the use of the drug methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). The deceased was a 29-year-old white male with no known history of drug abuse. Toxicological analysis detected MDMA and metabolite methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) in the blood, urine, and vitreous humor specimens submitted for analysis. The concentrations of MDMA in clotted blood, sodium fluoride-potassium oxalate anticoagulated blood, vitreous humor, and urine were 2.32 mg/L, 2.14 mg/L, 1.11 mg/L, and 118.8 mg/L, respectively. The concentrations of the metabolite MDA were less than 0.25 mg/L in blood and vitreous, and 3.86 mg/L in the urine.
Identification of Orthopedic Device Manufacturer
Authors: Ubelaker DH , Jacobs CH
Published: August 2015

Orthopedic devices recovered in association with skeletal remains offer information that can assist in identification. Frequently, surgical devices contain information that allow the identification of the manufacturer. Since March 1, 1993 a tracking system is in place that may allow the identification of the individual patient. A recent survey of the manufacturing companies results in summary information on the identification labels on products that allow them to be traced.
Homicidal Cardiac Lacerations in Children
Authors: Cohle SD , Hawley DA , Berg KK , Kiesel EL , Pless JE
Published: August 2015

We report six cases of intentionally inflicted cardiac laceration. The victims ranged in age from 9 weeks to 2 ½ years. Five victims were girls and in five cases the right atrium was lacerated. The left ventricle was lacerated in the other case. In the three cases with a confession, one victim each was struck with a fist, stomped, and kicked. Four patients had rib fractures, with at least two fractures in each case. Cardiac rupture from blunt trauma most commonly results from compression of the heart between the sternum and vertebral column, but may also occur from compression of the abdomen or legs, deceleration, blast injury, puncture of the heart by a fractured rib, and rupture through a resolving contusion. Accidentally acquired cardiac lacerations usually result from motor vehicle accidents or similarly severe forces. In children there are neither well documented cases of cardiac laceration nor of rib fractures from cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cardiac lacerations, as with other types of severe trauma acquired at home, are almost never accidental.
Further Comments on the Estimation of Error Associated with the Gustafson Dental Age Estimation Method
Authors: Lucy D , Pollard AM
Published: August 2015

Many researchers in the field of forensic odontology have questioned the error estimates stated in Gustafson's [1] paper outlining the relationship between certain dental attributes and age. In a substantial re-working of Gustafson's data, Maples and Rice [2] corrected Gustafson's regression statistics and found that the error associated with the age estimate was nearly double that claimed by Gustafson. We offer another statistical analysis of Gustafson's data and find that the errors calculated by Maples and Rice were also in error, being about a year too small. We give a formula for what we believe to be the correct treatment of errors in such cases, but conclude by observing that there is an urgent need for a more rigorous study of the traits first tabulated by Gustafson.
Using the Video Spectral Comparator in the Comparison of Carbon Copies and Carbon Paper Impressions
Authors: Moryan D
Published: August 2015

Provided with overwritten carbon paper images and one carbon copied document produced by the carbon paper, decipherment of the overwritten entries can be made. A technique using the Video Spectral Comparator with the Image Integration Comparator can reveal overwritten entries by storing and superimposing images of the carbon paper and carbon copied document.
Optical Analyses of Eyeglass Lens Fragments and the Unexpected Detection of Oral Sperm in a Homicide Case
Authors: Schwartz EA , Vallaro KE , Pool TM , Adamo RA , Taff ML , Boglioli LR
Published: August 2015

A homicide case in which intact spermatozoa were found in the oral cavity of the deceased forty days after his disappearance is reported. The victim's partially frozen body was found outdoors in a wooded area of upstate New York during the month of January. During a subsequent investigation, pieces of eyeglass lens fragments and bloodstains were found in the suspect's house and vehicle. Chemical and optical analyses of the lens fragments are presented as well as results of the serological tests.
DNA Analysis of Dental Pulp to Link Incinerated Remains of Homicide Victim to Crime Scene
Authors: Sweet DJ , Sweet CHW
Published: August 2015

Teeth endure postmortem degradation and extreme changes in ambient temperature and pressure better than most human tissues. This ability to resist deterioration allows the teeth to be studied as a method of establishing the identity of a decedent. Additionally, dental hard tissues, and in some instances soft tissues, may provide investigators with other sources of forensic data. In this case, a female homicide victim was transported to a location where her remains were burned. The high temperatures of a gasoline fire effectively incinerated the body precluding deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis from conventional sites. However, most of the teeth survived the conflagration. They were used to identify the victim. Additionally, the dental pulps were found to be an excellent source of high molecular weight genomic DNA. This proved to be an effective method to link the victim's body to biological evidence recovered from the site of the murder.
A Review of Death Investigator's Hand Book: A Field Guide to Crime Scene Processing, Forensic Evaluations, and Investigative Techniques
Authors: Reichardt GJ
Published: August 2015

This hand book is divided into three main sections: Crime Scene, Investigative, and Scientific. Each covers nearly every topic imaginable in outline form in a series of subsections. To compile this data the author has drawn from 304 sources cited in the bibliog- raphy.
Diameter of Cranial Gunshot Wounds as a Function of Bullet Caliber
Authors: Berryman HE , Smith OC , Symes SA
Published: August 2015

Determination of bullet caliber becomes increasingly important in homicides where the bullet is missing. In cases with entrance wounds to bone that are circular and well defined it may be tempting to measure the defect and offer suggestions about bullet caliber. For this reason, the relationship between wound diameter and bullet caliber was examined using cranial bones from autopsy cases. The minimum diameter of 35 cranial wounds produced by .22, .25, and .38-caliber bullet was measured. The relationship of minimum wound diameter to bullet caliber was examined using a one way analysis of variance. Fisher's least significant difference test revealed no significant difference between .22-caliber and .25-caliber wounds, while the .38-caliber wounds were significantly different (P < .001) from .22-caliber and .25-caliber wounds. Variation in wound size resulting from such factors as bullet shape, surface treatment, strength characteristics, loss of gyroscopic stability, intermediate targets, tangential impacts, and existing fractures are discussed. Also, the large variety of calibers available are noted as complicating the prediction of caliber from wound size. In view of these factors caution is recommended in any attempt to determine precise bullet caliber from the minimum dimensions of the cranial gunshot entrance wound.
Sex Assessment from Metacarpals of the Human Hand
Authors: Falsetti AB
Published: August 2015

Discriminant functions designed for the determination of sex from metacarpal measurements are presented. Three samples of metacarpal specimens were employed in the analysis; one consisting of 212 individuals from the Terry Collection, one of 33 individuals from the Royal Free Medical School in London, and finally, 40 individuals from the Forensic/Donated Collection, Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, all of whom had documented sex. Five measurements designed to characterize the size and shape of the human metacarpal were taken on all five digits. Based on the Terry Collection, significant metric differences attributed to race were found for digits I and III, and thus functions could only be derived for the three remaining metacarpals. Sex discriminant functions derived from the Terry Collection for digits II, IV, and V provide correct classification of 92.0, 86.26, and 84.37 percent. The resulting three linear equations were then independently applied to the Royal Free Medical School and Forensic/Donated samples to validate the accuracy of the original functions. Percentage of correct classification for each of the test samples varies.
Intercondylar Shelf Angle: A New Method to Determine Race from the Distal Femur
Authors: Craig EA
Published: August 2015

This study documents racial variation in the intercondylar shelf angle. The intercondylar shelf is actually the “roof” of the intercondylar notch, and on a lateral radiograph of the femur this is a distinctive feature called Blumensaat's Line. The angle between Blumensaat's Line and the posterior shaft of the femur can be quickly and easily measured. Variations in this angle are not dependent on the size of the femur, nor is the angle affected by arthritis in the notch or by trauma to the articular surfaces. Even fragmentary femora can be measured. This is a non-invasive technique that can be used in skeletal cases as well as cases where there are intact soft tissues.
Challenge on the Frontier: Discerning American Indians from Whites Osteologically
Authors: Gill GW
Published: August 2015

Throughout much of the western region of the United States the traditional metric method for discerning Amerindian skeletal remains from those of Whites or Blacks, that is, the Giles-Elliot discriminant function approach [2], has simply been shown to be ineffective [3,4]. It also seems to fail at correctly identifying the crania of Black males [19]. The region of the West that produces the lowest percentages of correct placement of American Indian skeletons appears to be the Northwestern Plains (Wyoming, Montana). For this reason, in that area of the West a number of new methods have emerged (both metric and non-metric) in recent years. The effectiveness of each of these approaches in the process of skeletal identification varies, but most of them appear to be quite useful in forensic contexts. It is also suggested that some additional new approaches which seem to hold much promise for the future, be tested objectively as well, in order to ascertain their effectiveness in forensic casework.
But Professor, Why Teach Race Identification if Races Don't Exist?
Authors: Kennedy KAR
Published: August 2015

Although the typological race concept is obsolete in present-day systematic biology and anthropology, the idea that human populations and individuals are classifiable into separate races (Blacks, Whites, Native Americans, etc.) persists in government census data and mass media sources as well as in the forensic sciences. Determination of ancestry is a critical component of the forensic anthropologist's methodology in identification of human remains. In training students in laboratory techniques of personal identification, the paradox of the scientific rejection of the race concept and its survival in medical-legal contexts needs to be addressed explicitly. Forensic anthropologists and their colleagues in other branches of biological anthropology are best able to determine the ancestral background of an individual when they are familiar with the geographical distributions and frequencies of phenotypic traits in modern populations. Their methodology does not necessitate a racial classification based upon nonconcordant characters in order to provide evidence for positive identification of individuals.
Separation of D1S80 Alleles by Vertical Electrophoresis Through a Two-Tier Resolving Gel
Authors: Roffey PE
Published: August 2015

The clarity of VNTR allele profiles generated by vertical polyacrylamide electrophoresis is improved by the addition of a stacking gel layer. However, the size of the resolving gel must be reduced to provide space for the stacking gel; therefore, resolving power is conceded in order to improve clarity. The procedure described in this paper delivers near maximum allele separation while maintaining excellent band clarity. This has been achieved by reducing the length of the stacking gel and dividing the resolving gel into two layers with a small increment in acrylamide in the lower layer.
Psychiatric-Legal Analysis of Criminal Defendants Charged with Murder: A Sample Without Major Mental Disorder
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA
Published: August 2015

A sample of 31 criminal defendants who were charged with murder but without major mental disorder was studied. The sample was derived from a large urban multi-ethnic, multi-cultural community pool. Subject characteristics and information about the homicide and decedents are described. Suggestions for further study are briefly discussed.
Another Courtroom Assault on the Confidentiality of the Psychotherapist-Patient Relationship
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA , Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

The therapeutic and legal protections afforded by California's psychotherapist-patient privilege have become increasingly eroded in such recent cases as People v. Wharton and Menendez v. Superior Court. In another capital case, People v. Webb, the California Supreme Court further erodes this privilege in regard to the private (confidential) treatment records of a prosecution witness. The Webb case and its possible implications are explored.
Gender Identification of Dried Human Bloodstains Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Authors: Pettenati MJ , Rao PN , Schnell S , Hayworth-Hodge R , Lantz PE , Geisinger KR
Published: August 2015

Identification of the gender of an individual(s) from whom a bloodstain is derived represents important evidence in medicolegal cases. The efficacy of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using chromosome X and Y centromeric probes was tested to determine its ability to identify correctly the gender of extracted dried bloodstains. In this preliminary study, FISH correctly identified the gender of 2-week-old dried bloodstains in prepared mixtures of male-to-female blood as low as 1%. The technique is accurate, rapid, sensitive, easily performed and readily available. This application of FISH as a forensic laboratory technique holds great promise.
A Survey of Gunshot Residue Analysis Methods
Authors: Singer RL , Davis D , Houck MM
Published: August 2015

A survey was sent to 80 forensic laboratories in 44 States and two Canadian Provinces concerning methodology in analyzing gunshot residue (GSR) and interpreting the results. Of the 80 surveys, 50 (63%) were returned completed. Questions included standard procedures, collection methods, thresholding problems and specificity of data. These results are compared to a previous survey reported in 1990. Implications for the interpretation and future study of these methods are discussed.
Medically Serious Suicide Attempts in a Jail with a Suicide-Prevention Program
Authors: Farmer KA , Felthous AR , Holzer CE
Published: August 2015

A suicide prevention program was implemented at the Galveston County Jail in 1986, reducing the number of suicides to only one from that time until the present. In the ten years prior to the implementation of the program, there had been seven suicides. Nevertheless, there have been a number of cases of medically serious suicide attempts that have occurred since implementation of the program. Thirteen cases of suicide attempts severe enough to warrant transfer to an emergency room for medical attention were identified through jail incident reports as occurring between 1989, when improvements were made in record-keeping at the jail, and July of 1994, when this study was initiated. Hospital records, jail medical records, jail administrative records and, in some cases, competency evaluations were obtained for each case. The cases were examined regarding demographic data, psychiatric history, circumstances surrounding the act, and results of psychiatric evaluation performed after the act. The findings were then compared to studies of suicides and near-suicides in the literature.

Examination of these cases has provided information that should render the suicide prevention program even more effective as well as provide useful information to other jails interested in implementing or improving a suicide-prevention program.
ABO Genotyping Following a Single PCR Amplification
Authors: Akane A , Yoshimura S , Yoshida M , Okii Y , Watabiki T , Matsubara K , Kimura K
Published: August 2015

Using primers designed by Lee and Chang, 200 base-pair (bp) fragment of ABO locus was amplified by PCR, which spans the site of the single nucleotide deletion associated with O allele. O allele could be identified by Kpn I digestion of the PCR product as reported. A and B alleles were also distinguishable by Mae II digestion of the product. Thus restriction digestion by Kpn I and Mae II could genotype ABO blood group following the single amplification. The nucleotide substitution in the 200-bp product between A and B alleles was also found in O allele, resulting in 2 different suballeles OA and OG. The single-strand conformational polymorphism of the PCR product was also investigated for ABO genotyping following the single amplification.
Population Data on the Loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and GC in Three Southwest European Populations
Authors: Rodríguez-Calvo MS , Bellas S , Souto L , Vide C , Valverde E , Carracedo A
Published: August 2015

Three Southwest European populations: Galicia (NW Spain), a mixed Spanish population from the rest of Spain (outside Galicia), and a population sample from the Coimbra area (Centre of Portugal) have been studied for the Low Density Lipoprotein Receptor (LDLR), Glycophorin A (GYPA), Hemoglobin G Gammaglobin (HBGG), D7S8 and Group Specific Component (GC). The allele and genotype frequencies found have been compared with other previously published data. All loci meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations in the three sampled populations. There was no evidence of association in any of the three population samples, between the five loci studied. No significant differences were found with Caucasian populations, nevertheless, significant differences were observed between our three population studies and the US SW Hispanic and African populations. The AmpliType PM DNA test greatly facilitates DNA testing in forensic laboratories, providing quick results and a good discrimination power from a single test.
Case Report: Distribution of Methamphetamine in a Massive Fatal Ingestion
Authors: Logan BK , Weiss EL , Harruff RC
Published: August 2015

A subject who apparently swallowed a baggie containing “crank” (methamphetamine) while being arrested, was admitted to hospital and then experienced a massive overdose of the drug. The subject went through a seizure with associated fixed dilated pupils, and a depressed pulse and blood pressure. His cardiac and respiratory problems could not be stabilized, and he died. Methamphetamine levels in central and peripheral blood, liver, bile, vitreous, gastric and urine were determined. Blood levels of greater than 60 mg/L, were found together with even higher levels in the bile, urine and gastric. These levels are discussed in terms of other fatal, non-fatal and recreational methamphetamine use.
A Review of: A Field Guide for Human Skeletal Identification
Authors: Bass WM
Published: August 2015

The first edition of this Field Guide was published in 1987. It is designed for the professional forensic anthropologist and assumes that the user has a good background in human skeletal and dental anatomy. Bennett found in his 25 plus years as a forensic anthropologist that it was “advantageous for forensic anthropologist to have quick access to information pertinent to procedures involved in human identification.” (v) The tables, illustrations and procedural guides found here have either been abstracted or reprinted from previous publications.
A Review of: Cause of Death
Authors: Zimmerly JG
Published: August 2015

Cause of Death, is a fascinating account of the details of a dozen of the more famous forensic cases that have been debated in the recent past. This inside account of those cases, as viewed by Dr. Cyril Wecht, a forensic pathologist of unquestioned ability is presented in an easy to read and compelling style by Dr. Wecht and his co-authors, son Benjamin Wecht and legal writer, Mark Curriden.
The tRNA methyltransferase Dnmt2 is required for accurate polypeptide synthesis during haematopoiesis
Authors: Tuorto Francesca , Herbst Friederike , Alerasool Nader , Bender Sebastian , Popp Oliver , Federico Giuseppina , Reitter Sonja , Liebers Reinhard , Stoecklin Georg , Gröne Hermann‐Josef , Dittmar Gunnar , Glimm Hanno , Lyko Frank
Published: August 2015

The Dnmt2 enzyme utilizes the catalytic mechanism of eukaryotic DNA methyltransferases to methylate several tRNAs at cytosine 38. Dnmt2 mutant mice, flies, and plants were reported to be viable and fertile, and the biological function of Dnmt2 has remained elusive. Here, we show that endochondral ossification is delayed in newborn Dnmt2‐deficient mice, which is accompanied by a reduction of the haematopoietic stem and progenitor cell population and a cell‐autonomous defect in their differentiation. RNA bisulfite sequencing revealed that Dnmt2 methylates C38 of tRNA AspGTC, GlyGCC, and ValAAC, thus preventing tRNA fragmentation. Proteomic analyses from primary bone marrow cells uncovered systematic differences in protein expression that are due to specific codon mistranslation by tRNAs lacking Dnmt2‐dependent methylation. Our observations demonstrate that Dnmt2 plays an important role in haematopoiesis and define a novel function of C38 tRNA methylation in the discrimination of near‐cognate codons, thereby ensuring accurate polypeptide synthesis.
15 YEARS OF PARAGANGLIOMA: Clinical manifestations of paraganglioma syndromes types 1–5
Authors: Benn Diana E , Robinson Bruce G , Clifton-Bligh Roderick J
Published: August 2015

The paraganglioma (PGL) syndromes types 1–5 are autosomal dominant disorders characterized by familial predisposition to PGLs, phaeochromocytomas (PCs), renal cell cancers, gastrointestinal stromal tumours and, rarely, pituitary adenomas. Each syndrome is associated with mutation in a gene encoding a particular subunit (or assembly factor) of succinate dehydrogenase (SDHx). The clinical manifestations of these syndromes are protean: patients may present with features of catecholamine excess (including the classic triad of headache, sweating and palpitations), or with symptoms from local tumour mass, or increasingly as an incidental finding on imaging performed for some other purpose. As genetic testing for these syndromes becomes more widespread, presymptomatic diagnosis is also possible, although penetrance of disease in these syndromes is highly variable and tumour development does not clearly follow a predetermined pattern. PGL1 syndrome (SDHD) and PGL2 syndrome (SDHAF2) are notable for high frequency of multifocal tumour development and for parent-of-origin inheritance: disease is almost only ever manifest in subjects inheriting the defective allele from their father. PGL4 syndrome (SDHB) is notable for an increased risk of malignant PGL or PC. PGL3 syndrome (SDHC) and PGL5 syndrome (SDHA) are less common and appear to be associated with lower penetrance of tumour development. Although these syndromes are all associated with SDH deficiency, few genotype–phenotype relationships have yet been established, and indeed it is remarkable that such divergent phenotypes can arise from disruption of a common molecular pathway. This article reviews the clinical presentations of these syndromes, including their component tumours and underlying genetic basis.
IN VITRO MASS-SCREENING OF LACTIC ACID BACTERIA AS POTENTIAL BIOSORBENTS OF CESIUM AND STRONTIUM IONS
Authors: Kinoshita Hideki , Sato1 Yuka , Ohtake Fumika , Ishida Mitsuharu , Komoda Toshikazu , Kitazawa2 Haruki , Saito Tadao , Kimura Kazuhiko
Published: August 2015

Many radionuclides were scattered by the explosion at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station. We examined whether lactic acid bacteria (LAB) can sorb cesium ions (Cs+) and strontium ions (Sr2+) for radioprotection. Many strains showed biosorption to Cs+ and Sr2+ using an in vitro mass-screening although each strain showed different sorption. We selected MYU 111, MYU 758, and MYU 759 strains that showed especially high biosorption to Cs+ and/or Sr2+. MYU 111 was identified as Lactobacillus plantarum, and MYU 758 and 759 were Pediococcus pentosaceus. The selected strains tended to show higher biosorption when using the buffer method compared to the culture method. Further, they showed high biosorption at a low concentration of 1 ppb Cs+ and Sr2+ (max 28.8% and 97.7% sorption, respectively). This is the first study where lactic acid bacteria are shown to have biosorption of Cs+ and Sr2+.
ANTIBACTERIAL EFFECT OF COMPOUNDS OF PEPTIDE NATURE CONTAINED IN AQUEOUS EXTRACT OF BRASSICA NAPUS SOLANUM LYCOPERSICUM AND TETRAGONIA TETRAGONIOIDES LEAVES
Authors: Neubauerová Tereza , Doležílková Ivana , Králová Marta , Schevchenko Irina , Macůrková Anna , Šanda Miloslav , Lovecká Petra , Macková Martina , Macek TomÃ¡Å¡
Published: August 2015

Treatment of infections caused by pathogenic bacteria is still harder. Due to increasing number of microbial species resistant against so far invented antibiotics. This presents great problem for public health. One of the potential solutions seems to be antimicrobial peptides. Those peptides are synthetized in all organisms as a part of innate immunity with rapid mode of antimicrobial action. Lot of them have been isolated from bacteria, plants, insects and mammals as well. Our project was aimed on finding such peptides in plant extracts, respectively in leaves of Brassica napus (canola), Solanum lycopersicum (tomato) and Tetragonia tetragonioides (New Zealand spinach). We used several separation techniques to obtain fractions containing compounds of peptide nature with hydrophobic character. Antimicrobial activity of these fractions was tested against several gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Mass spectrometry analysis of antimicrobial active fractions proved presence of low molecular peptides with molecular masses 1.9 - 4.9 kDa and a partial amino acid sequence in hydrophobic part of Tetragonia extract. In hydrophilic fraction of the Solanum extract with proved antibacterial activity two patogenesis-related proteins with antifungal activity NP24 and TPM-1 were detected.
ANTIMICROBIAL EVALUATION OF SESQUITERPENE α-CURCUMENE AND ITS SYNERGISM WITH IMIPENEM
Authors: Narjara Santos da Silva Gloria , Pozzatti Patricia , Rigatti Fabiane , Hörner Rosmari , Hartz Alves Sydney , Augusto Mallmann Carlos , Maria Heinzmann Berta
Published: August 2015

α-Curcumene was isolated from the fresh aerial parts of Senecio selloi Spreng. DC. and its activity against bacteria, yeasts and an alga was inspected by the applying the microdilution method. The strongest effect was manifested against Saccharomyces cerevisiae with estimated values of MIC and MFC 0.8 mg/mL. The α-curcumene synergism in the concentrations of 1 mM and 5 mM, respectively, with selected antibiotics (ciprofloxacin, imipenem, ceftazidim and a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid) was investigated against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Enterobacter cloacae, Staphylococcus haemolyticus and Klebsiella pneumoniae by the disk diffusion assay. The results have shown the occurrence of synergism of α-curcumene with imipenem against the clinical isolate E. cloacae with a significance level of p> 0.05. Based on these informations it can be concluded that fungal strains are more sensitive for α-curcumene than the bacterial ones and the synergism of α-curcumene with imipenem can improve the antibiotic efficiency against the E. cloacae.
FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES OF YEASTS ISOLATED FROM SOME NIGERIAN TRADITIONAL FERMENTED FOODS
Authors: P. Alakeji Tolulope , Banwo Kolawole , R. Ogunremi Omotade , I. Sanni Abiodun
Published: August 2015

Yeasts play important roles in confering some desirable qualities such as nutritional value in traditional fermented foods. This study was carried out to investigate the potentials of yeasts isolated from some Nigerian traditional fermented foods for functional characteristics such as growth at pH 2.5 and 2% bile salts concentration and ability to lower cholesterol in culture medium. A total of 40 yeast strains were isolated from burukutu, ogi and pito. They were characterized phenotypically. Fifteen strains were selected based on the ability to tolerate pH 2.5 and 2% bile salts and they were further identified using API 20C AUX (Biomerieux, France) to be Debaryomyces hansenii (5), Candida krusei (4), Candida glabrata (2), Candida colliculosa (1), Pichia anomala (1), Pichia farinosa (1) and Pichia membranefaciens (1). At pH 2.5, C. glabrata SA2 showed the highest increase in viable cells count after 24h (6.31 log10 cfu ml-1) while the most sensitive strain was P. membranefaciens BA2 (0.70 log10 cfu ml-1). P. membranefaciens BA2 survived in 2% bile salts than other yeast strains, with viable cell increase of 0.84 log10 cfu ml-1 after 24 h while the least tolerance was observed for D. hansenii OA1 with an increase in viable cells of 7.76 log10 cfu ml-1. C. krusei OB1 exhibited the greatest reduction of cholesterol of 91.34% while the least reduction of 24.28% was observed for D. hansenii OA1 after 48h incubation. The yeast strains in this study demonstrated functional attributes which can be employed as dietary adjuncts for the development of non-dairy beverages with hypocholesterolemic attributes.
USE OF BUTTER MILK AND POULTRY-TRANSFORMING WASTES FOR ENHANCED PRODUCTION OF Bacillus subtilis SPB1 BIOSURFACTANT IN SUBMERGED FERMENTATION
Authors: Zouari Raida , Ellouze-Chaabouni Semia , Ghribi Dhouha
Published: August 2015

Biosurfactants are valuable microbial amphiphilic molecules with effective surface-active and biological properties applicable to several industries and processes. Microorganisms synthesize them, especially during growth on water-immiscible substrates, providing an alternative to chemically prepared conventional surfactants. Microbial surfactants are not yet a sustainable alternative to chemically synthesized surfactants seeing their potentially high production charges. This study highlights the use of low-cost agro-industrial raw material for fermentative production of biosurfactants. The Box–Behnken Design and response surface methodology were employed to optimize the concentrations of the ratio butter milk /distilled water, poultry-transforming wastes and inoculum size for lipopeptide biosurfactant production by B.subtilis SPB1 in submerged fermentation.The best production yield was about 12.61 ± 0.7 g/L of crude lipopeptide biosurfactant. It can be obtained when using a ratio butter milk /distilled water of 1.5, poultry-transforming wastes of 23g/L and an inoculum size of 0.12. In comparison to the highest biosurfactant production yield reported for Bacillus subtilis SPB1, three fold increases were obtained.
OPTIMIZATION OF MILK-CLOTTING PROTEASE PRODUCTION BY A LOCAL ISOLATE OF ASPERGILLUS NIGER FFB1 IN SOLID-STATE FERMENTATION
Authors: Bensmail Souhila , Mechakra Aicha , Fazouane-Naimi Fethia
Published: August 2015

The need to surmount the limitation of obtaining rennin, has been actively pushed researches to find new substitutes that present high milk-clotting activity which enables the production of high yields of cheese. In this study, the production of extracellular milk-clotting protease by locally isolated fungal specie, Aspergillus niger FFB1 under solid-state fermentation (SSF) using cheep agro-industrial byproduct (wheat bran) was optimized. The effects of several physicochemical and environmental factors were investigated to select the optimal conditions that ensure the best milk-clotting activity by application of "One-factor-at-a-time" method. A trial of cheese production using the crude extract was also carried out. The maximum enzyme activity (830 SU/g bran with a ratio MCA/PA of 4.25) was obtained under the optimum conditions of temperature (30°C), spores concentration (106 spores/mL), incubation time (72 hours), and moisture content of solid substrate (39.2%) adjusted suitably with mineral solution (Czapek-Dox) of pH 4.
OPTIMIZATION OF NUTRITIONAL AND CULTURE CONDITIONS FOR IMPROVED PROTEASE PRODUCTION BY ASPERGILLUS NIDULANS AND ASPERGILLUS FLAVUS
Authors: Joel Gnanadoss J. , Kanchana Devi S.
Published: August 2015

Aspergillus sp. is considered to be a good source of protease. Medium optimization is essential for each isolate in order to maximise the protease production. In the present study, different media were evaluated for maximising protease biosynthesis under submerged fermentation (SmF) using A. nidulans LCJ249 and A. flavus LCJ253. Among the six media tested, Medium 6 was found to be the best medium for maximum protease production in both A. nidulans LCJ249 (1178.0 U/mL) and A. flavus LCJ253 (950.6 U/mL). Effect of essential nutrient parameters like carbon, nitrogen and casein and other culture conditions such as incubation time, inoculum size, pH and shaking and static conditions were evaluated by the conventional one factor at a time approach. In the case of A. nidulans LCJ249, a medium containing 20 g/L glucose, 15 g/L malt extract, 5 g/L casein, initial medium pH of 7 and inoculum size of 30 mg/L favoured maximum protease production. Similarly, in A. flavus LCJ253, a medium containing 20 g/L starch, 20 g/L peptone, 15 g/L casein, initial medium pH of 7 and inoculum size of 10 mg/L favoured maximum protease production. In both the cultures, protease production was higher under shaking condition than in static conditions. The study showed that the optimised medium with optimal conditions enhanced protease production when compared to the original medium.
Application of interdisciplinary connections and information technologies for development of motor skills in light athletic of girls - senior form pupils
Authors: Al-Ravashdeh Abdel Baset , Kozina Zh.L. , Kramskoy S.I. , Bazilyuk T.A.
Published: August 2015

Purpose: to work out and substantiate technologies of motor and intellectual aspects’ integral impact on process of training of light athletic’ throws and run techniques of 15-16 years old girls. Material: in the research 2 groups of pupils participated: control group (n = 22) and experimental group (n = 21). Results: Methodic of run, jumps and throws techniques’ training of senior school girl-pupils has been worked out. The methodic implies mastering of basic light athletic movements on the base of analogies with rational and economic movements in animate nature and laws of mechanic It conditions application of knowledge from physics, biology, mathematic for receiving of more complete understanding of light athletic movements’ correct technique. Conclusions: we have shown that application of interdisciplinary connections permits to make the process of movements’ training more effective in comparison with mastering material of purely physical education.