bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Prevalence of Drugs and Alcohol in Fatally Injured Truck Drivers
Authors: Crouch DJ , Birky MM , Gust SW , Rollins DE , Walsh JM , Moulden JV , Quinlan KE , Beckel RW
Published: August 2015

To assess the impact of alcohol and other drug use in the trucking industry, the National Transportation Safety Board, in collaboration with The National Institute on Drug Abuse investigated fatal-to-the-driver trucking accidents in eight states over a one year period.

Comprehensive drug screens were performed on blood specimens collected from 168 fatally injured drivers. One or more drugs were detected in 67% of the drivers and 33% of the drivers had detectable blood concentrations of psychoactive drugs or alcohol. The most prevalent drugs were cannabinoids and ethanol, each found in 13% of the drivers. Cocaine or benzoylecgonine was found in 8% of the cases. Seven percent of the driver's blood specimens contained amphetamine or methamphetamine and 7% contained phenylpropanolamine, ephedrine, or pseudoephedrine.

A panel of toxicologists reviewed the accident investigation report and the toxicology findings for each case and determined that impairment due to marijuana use was a factor in all cases where the delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentration exceeded 1.0 ng/mL and that alcohol impairment contributed to all accidents where the blood alcohol concentration was 0.04% wt/vol or greater. In 50 of 56 cases where psychoactive drugs or alcohol were found, impairment due to substance use contributed to the fatal accident.
Automated Data Analysis of Fire Debris Samples Using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry and Macro Programming
Authors: Nowicki J
Published: August 2015

A macro program written for Hewlett Packard Mass Selective Detector data stations that performs data analysis of fire debris samples is presented. The program generates a report that includes ion profiles for alkane, aromatic and polynuclear aromatic compounds, plus a list identifying the major peaks of the sample chromatogram. The algorithm that incorporates the retention index of the peak into the search of the mass spectral library is described in detail.
International Trade in Bear Gall Bladders: Forensic Source Inference
Authors: Espinoza EO , Shafer JA , Hagey LR
Published: August 2015

Fresh and desiccated gall bladders of the Ursidae family (bears) obtained as criminal evidence were characterized by analysis of the principal biliary components, mainly ursodeoxycholyl-taurine, cholyl-taurine and chenodeoxycholyl-taurine using TLC and HPLC. This bile acids profile appears to be an Ursidae family characteristic. Results show that of the samples from Asia only 3% were from the Ursidae family and 18% were from “farmed bears.” Samples seized in the U.S.A. and Canada showed that 22.6% and 85% respectively, were from Ursids. The remaining samples were consistent with bile from the domestic pig (Suidae).
Identification of the Fragmentary, Burned Remains of Two U.S. Journalists Seven Years After Their Disappearance in Guatemala
Authors: Owsley DW
Published: August 2015

The contribution of a physical anthropologist to a forensic investigation is generally associated with analysis of skeletal remains in a laboratory. This case, which deals with the identification of two U.S. journalists who disappeared in Guatemala in March 1985, shows that the observations of a physical anthropologist in the field—at the site where the skeletal remains are located—can be essential to the success of an investigation. In this case, there was a deliberate attempt to mislead the investigators, but the physical anthropologists on the team discovered the deception. Subsequently, when they were taken to the actual cremation site, they obtained bone fragments and teeth that permitted identification of the victims. For one individual, the unusual morphology of the frontal sinus made positive identification possible. Comparison of premortem dental X-rays with teeth found at the site resulted in positive identification of the second individual.
Variation in Birth Timing and Location of the Neonatal Line in Human Enamel
Authors: Skinner M , Dupras T
Published: August 2015

The location of the neonatal line in 173 primary teeth from 43 children was investigated and shown to differ significantly among pre-term, term, and post-term births. Approximately 75% of the neonatal lines that lie beyond 2SD of the mean location of the line in term births are from children born outside of 38 to 42 weeks gestation. The duration of pregnancy accounts for about 36% of the variation in location of the neonatal line in non-term births. Based on the small proportion of non-term births whose neonatal line is located beyond 2SD of the mean location of the neonatal line in term births, it is estimated that this technique will provide individualizing information in about 3% of immature skeletonized remains in a forensic context. The relative timing of pre- and postnatal pathological striae in the enamel of primary teeth can be evaluated in terms of the variation, documented here, in the location of the neonatal line due to individual and birth timing differences. Determination of the timing of pathological enamel striae will aid in the identification of both children and adults for whom histological examination of enamel is undertaken.
Basic Fuchsin—A Guide to a One-Step Processing Technique for Black Electrical Tape
Authors: Howard S
Published: August 2015

Detection of fingerprint evidence on black electrical tape has often been a frustrating experience for many examiners because of the very nature of the substrate.

The tape, which is frequently found on numerous crime-related exhibits, particularly weapons, requires a number of steps to render any evidence visible, including separate processing techniques for each of the surfaces.

Basic fuchsin (rosaniline chloride) is a fluorescent reagent which provides a “one-step” alternate processing technique.

Fingerprints of different ages and from a variety of donors were processed and the results, as well as the comparison of this process with the established techniques of gentian violet (or crystal violet) and cyanoacrylate/rhodamine 6G, are discussed.
Suicidal Drowning
Authors: Avis SP
Published: August 2015

Autopsy protocols at the office of the Chief Forensic Pathologist were reviewed with respect to suicidal drowning. Within the years 1987 to 1991, 247 people have committed suicide in the Province of Newfoundland. Of that number, 22 committed suicide by drowning, representing 8.9% of all suicides, and the fourth leading cause of suicidal death.

When considering suicide in the age group of 50 years and older, (n = 68), which accounts for 27.5% of all suicides, drowning represents 25% of all suicidal deaths, and within females in this group represents the most common form of suicidal death (45.5%). The presence of alcohol or other drugs is decidedly unusual in such victims. Of the 22 drowning suicides, 19 were committed in the ocean, two were committed in fresh water and one committed in a residential well. These results contrast to similar studies performed in locations in which access to water could be reasonably considered a factor in choosing a method of suicide.
Histiocytoid Cardiomyopathy: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Prahlow JA , Teot LA
Published: August 2015

The sudden death of an infant may be due to a variety of causes. In such cases, complete autopsy with radiologic, gross, microscopic, and toxicologic examination is warranted. We present a case of a previously healthy 15-month-old girl with no known disease, who experienced witnessed cardiac arrest, ventricular fibrillation, and death. Complete postmortem examination revealed histiocytoid cardiomyopathy as the cause of death.

Histiocytoid cardiomyopathy is a rare infantile cardiac-muscle disorder characterized by the presence of enlarged, polygonal subendocardial myocytes which, by light microscopy, lack normal striations, and instead have granular, faintly eosinophilic cytoplasm. Ultrastructurally, the myocytes contain numerous mitochondria and markedly reduced numbers of myofibrils. Clinically, the disorder is characterized by cardiac arrhythmias and/or sudden death occurring in children under the age of two years. We discuss the differential diagnosis, proposed theories of etiology, and the pathology of this rare entity.
The Psychotic Patient as Security Guard
Authors: Silva JA , Leong GB , Weinstock R
Published: August 2015

The job of the security guard is generally regarded as stressful because of the potential for violent or other hostile confrontation. Although the public assumes that only mentally healthy individuals who possess the capability to handle stressful situations become employed as security guards, this may not be the case. A series of 15 individuals who suffered from psychotic disorders while working as security guards is studied and discussed in terms of the issues of dangerousness and public safety. One case is described in detail in order to highlight important issues resulting from being psychotic while working as a security guard.
Award Winning Research Papers in Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Introduction
Authors: Rosner R
Published: August 2015

While the stated purpose of the AAFS Psychiatry & Behavioral Science Section Award for the Best Paper by a Fellow in Forensic Psychiatry/Psychology and for the paper(s) that earn Honorable Mention in the Award processes is to encourage research in the new generation of forensic psychiatrists/psychologists, there is a secondary aim. That secondary goal is to encourage research among established practitioners who do not regard themselves as researchers. It is hoped that, by demonstrating that respectable research is possible by the most junior members of the profession, more experienced practitioners will take courage and apply themselves constructively to the data readily at their disposal.
The Disposition of Criminal Charges After Involuntary Medication to Restore Competency to Stand Trial
Authors: Ladds B , Convit A , Zito J , Vitrai J
Published: August 2015

The United States Supreme Court, in the recent case of Riggins v. Nevada, extended its examination of the issue of involuntary treatment with anti-psychotic medication to the mentally disabled facing criminal trial. Although this was an extreme case where the defendant faced a possible death sentence, the involuntary administration of anti-psychotic medication to restore ‘competency to stand trial’ always raises unique medical and moral questions. This highly controversial issue has received little empirical investigation.

We report here on the first study to follow-up on the disposition of the criminal charges of persons committed to a hospital for the restoration of ‘competency to stand trial’ who refused anti-psychotic medication and for whom involuntary treatment was sought. We have previously reported on the characteristics of these cases (N=68) and aspects of their outcome in the hospital. This cohort of patients represents virtually all indicted felony offenders in New York state who were incompetent to stand trial and for whom involuntary treatment with anti-psychotic medication was requested between 1986 and 1990. The present retrospective report focuses on the disposition of the criminal charges for such cases, in a state that does not have a death penalty.

Tentative inferences are considered based on the findings that persons who were involuntarily restored to ‘competency to stand trial’ had a variety of dispositions of their criminal charges, including plea negotiations that resulted in foreshortened incarceration and several cases of insanity acquittals. Suggestions for further and more conclusive studies are proposed.
Competency, Civil Commitment, and the Dangerousness of the Mentally III
Authors: Bittman BJ , Convit A
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to assess if a relationship exists between the nature of an individuals criminal charges and the finding of fitness among defendants evaluated at the Forensic Psychiatry Clinic servicing Manhattan. We examined the records of 354 defendants referred to the Forensic Clinic from the New York Criminal and Supreme Courts for a competency to stand trial evaluation. We reviewed their charges in light of the finding of competency. Incompetent defendants were most often accused of misdemeanors rather than felonies and of non-violent rather than violent crimes. Perhaps individuals who are thought to be psychiatrically disturbed get detained by the police on trivial charges so as to get them off the streets. Deinstitutionalization and civil commitment laws are considered as contributing factors and their impact is discussed.
Production of Urinary Ethanol After Sample Collection
Authors: Saady JJ , Poklis A , Dalton HP
Published: August 2015

As the interest in urine drug testing grows, ethanol is frequently included in drug-abuse screening. Collection of urine for drug testing is less invasive than blood collection and is used to screen employees in a large cross-section of occupations. Because alcohol can be produced from carbohydrates via fermentation, our interest was to determine: (1) if ethanol could be produced in glucose-positive urine (2) under what microbiological conditions would this process occur, and (3) would the urine ethanol concentration be significant.

Fourteen urine specimens were selected from the Urinalysis Laboratory of a large medical center. All specimens were tested for ethanol concentration on the day of voiding and were found to be negative (<0.01 mg/100 mL). Urine glucose concentrations ranged from 0 to ≥ 2000 mg/dL. Microbiological examinations were performed on all specimens.

Storing the samples at room temperature, five of the specimens produced ethanol over the time course of the study (1 to 21 days) in concentrations ranging from 0.036 to 2.327 g/100 mL. Yeast was identified in the five glucose positive urine samples producing ethanol. Six glucose positive urine samples that did not produce ethanol were found to be yeast negative.

Findings indicate that significant ethanol concentrations can develop from glucose and yeast positive urine, after the day of voiding.
Computer Aided Retrieval of Common-Batch Members in Leuckart Amphetamine Profiling
Authors: Jonson CSL , Strömberg L
Published: August 2015

Comparison of profiles is a well established way to find links between confiscated drugs. It is a laborious and time consuming task to manually compare large numbers of profiles to find common-batch links. To facilitate the comparison a computerized method has been developed. It is described and applied to a set of amphetamine impurity profiles. From each profile, areas of selected peaks are fed to the computer. By using quotients of corresponding peaks, the computer finds pairs of closely related profiles. With a sufficient number of peaks, the method is tolerant to variations in intensity between profiles, random peak area variations and a few strongly deviating peak areas. The program was written in Q-basic from Microsoft and may be run on any IBM-compatible personal computer. The method may also be used for analyzing data from other forensic objects, when the descriptors chosen are affected by errors like those described in the text.
Evaluation of HLA in Detection of Non-Parentage Among Known False Trios
Authors: Salaru NNR
Published: August 2015

This paternity study was performed with trios in which the putative father was not the biological father (NBF), in order to evaluate the effectiveness of HLA-A and -B phenotyping for routine testing.

All 372 generated trios had ABO, Rh, MNS, Kell, Duffy, Kidd and HLA (A and B) systems tested.

HLA-A and -B phenotyping directly excluded 81.73% of NBF. Red blood cell markers excluded 8.82% of NBF missed by HLA; only 0.81% of NBF were not identified by the markers used.

Each laboratory engaged in disputed paternity testing should evaluate its actual performance in detecting non-biological fathers and its exclusion rates in real trios. These data together can be used as a guide of mother's reliability.
Paternity Investigation Among Known False Trios: ABO, Rh, MNSs, Kell, Duffy, Kidd, and HLA Systems
Authors: Salaru NNR
Published: August 2015

This paternity study was performed with trios in which the putative father was not the biological father (NBF), in order to evaluate adjustment of genetic markers employed to disclose non biological fathers for the population, and the biological meaning of likelihood of paternity in casework.

All 923 generated trios had ABO, Rh, MNS, Kell and HLA systems tested; 372 of them also had Duffy and Kidd systems tested.

The most powerful exclusion system was HLA, followed, in this order, by ABO, Rh, Duffy, MNSs, Kidd, and Kell. Taking into account the Indian/black/white historical miscegenation background in the population, an improvement in the performance of red blood cells as disclosers of non biological fathers could be achieved, if particular additional sera were used.

In the group tested with seven different systems, direct exclusions were observed in 90.31%, and they were single system exclusions in 26.61%. In order to avoid the remote possibility of mutation, it is suggested that the number of used systems be increased. Indirect exclusions were verified in 8.87% and only 0.81% of NBF were not excluded at all. In this last group, probabilities of paternity were calculated and two values greater than 95% were obtained.

To be able to accomplish the “visum et repertum” duty and to assist the court, the expert should equally emphasize: a) the probability of paternity of the alleged father and the possibility of finding an unexcluded NBF; b) the actual performance of systems used to uncover NBF, together with the probabilities of paternity of those who were not discovered; c) the previous referenced trend of probabilities of paternity of true and of non-biological fathers to cluster in distinct class intervals of likelihood of paternity.
Simultaneous Subtyping of Group Specific Component and Esterase D by Isoelectric Focusing on Agarose Gels
Authors: Miller SA , Stern CM , Schanfield MS
Published: August 2015

A quick, sensitive and economical technique has been developed to subtype GC and ESD simultaneously on the same agarose IEF gel. This method could be a useful tool for forensic application.
Direct Sequencing of the Human Protamine P1 Gene and Application in Forensic Medicine
Authors: Queralt R , de Fàbregues-Boixar O , Adroer R , Gené M , Gómez-Catalán J , Huguet E , Oliva R
Published: August 2015

Protamines are among the most variable nuclear proteins known in eukaryotes. In order to learn more about their evolution and function in humans and to explore the possibility of potential applications in forensic medicine we have developed a rapid method to amplify and directly sequence the protamine P1 gene simultaneously in many different samples. The method takes only 3.5 h from genomic DNA to the sequencing reactions. Despite the high variability of these genes only one polymorphic site was detected at the coding region level in different individuals. This polymorphic variation does not create a change in the amino-acid sequence of the protamine. Because all the protamine genes sequenced from different species are markedly different among them as well as to the human sequence, amplification and direct sequencing of this gene can be used to unequivocally identify the human or animal origin of biological specimens. Furthermore, the single polymorphic site detected in the human P1 gene could be useful in conjunction with other markers in identification studies in humans.
A Modified Reagent for the Confirmation of Blood
Authors: Hatch AL
Published: August 2015

Oxygen and pyridine compete for the same binding site on the heme molecule. Lowering the oxygen concentration in Takayama's reagent by addition of an oxygen scavenger such as dithiothreitol (Cleland's reagent) shifts this equilibrium in favor of pyridine, and increases the rate at which hemochromogen crystals are formed. This modification makes the confirmatory test for blood faster, and therefore easier to use. The absolute sensitivity and the specificity of the reagent appear unchanged.
Cyanoacrylate Adhesive Technique in Wound Edge Approximation
Authors: Prahlow JA , Lantz PE
Published: August 2015

Cyanoacrylate, the adhesive component of many commercially available strong-binding glues, has been used by the medical profession for various purposes, including tissue adhesion and repair, embolization, sclerotherapy, and hemostasis. Mortuary science professionals rely on cyanoacrylate's adhesive property to aid in body restoration techniques following embalming. Forensic applications include the use of cyanoacrylate fumes for latent fingerprint detection. An additional application for this sticky chemical is currently unrecognized by many within the forensic community. Specifically, cyanoacrylate's adhesive property makes possible the relatively simple, efficient, and rapid approximation of disrupted skin and tissue when warranted during a forensic autopsy. The final result is aesthetically pleasing and lends itself to subsequent photographic documentation especially when patterned injuries are encountered. We discuss the technique, benefits, and limitations of the cyanoacrylate adhesive method in this setting and present several cases wherein the technique has produced satisfying results.
An Accidental Death Related to Cocaine, Cocaethylene, and Caffeine
Authors: Caughlin LJ , O'Halloran RL
Published: August 2015

Cocaethylene is often found in body fluids after concurrent use of alcohol and cocaine. Current research is showing that cocaethylene is more toxic than cocaine. The case presented here involves a death that is due to cocaine, cocaethylene, and caffeine.

The cocaethylene concentrations found were 0.16 mg/L (blood) and 1.85 mg/L (gastric). Caffeine concentrations were 16.40 mg/L (blood) and 15.40 mg/L (gastric). Cocaine was found only in the gastric sample at a level of 0.45 mg/L. The blood alcohol of the subject was 10 mg/dL.

From the case investigation it was determined that the death was accidental but related to the ingestion of cocaine and caffeine tablets. With the combination of alcohol and cocaine use rising, it is becoming evident that the routine screening of medical examiner cases for cocaethylene should be performed.
Abrasive Cutting of a Safe: A Case Study
Authors: Zeichner A , Feingold G , Landau E
Published: August 2015

A case study of an abrasive safe cutting is presented. The suspects were linked to the offense by the characteristics of two abrasive discs in their possession and debris collected from their clothes. Experiments of abrasive and oxygen cutting of steel were carried out. It was found that some characteristics may distinguish between debris of the two processes.
Identification of Euro-Americans, Afro-Americans, and Amerindians from Palatal Dimensions
Authors: Byers SN , Churchill SE , Curran B
Published: August 2015

Seven measurements were taken on 414 Euro-American, Afro-American, and Amerindian palates in an attempt to evaluate differences in dental arcade shape among these three groups. Width measurements across the palate at the first incisor, canine, second premolar, and second molar were taken directly on the dental arcade. The distances along the sagittal plane from the front of the palate to the level of these teeth were calculated from measurements taken between the right central incisor and the canine, second premolar and second molar. Discriminant functions computed from the measurements properly classified palates by group 66.0% of the time if sex is unknown. If sex is known to be male, other functions properly classified 65.7% of the sample; for sex known to be female 72.0% correct classification was achieved. Because these percentage are more than twice that expected from probability theory alone, it is concluded that the seven measurements are useful in determining ethnic group.
Some Considerations Regarding the Use of Amino Acid Racemization in Human Dentine as an Indicator of Age at Death
Authors: Carolan VA , Gardner MLG , Lucy D , Pollard AM
Published: August 2015

An HPLC method is described for simultaneously obtaining the enantiomeric ratio of three amino acids (aspartic acid, serine, and glutamic acid) from dental collagen, with a view to using this information for estimating age at death. Results are reported from a sample of twenty three known age modern teeth, six known age 19th C. AD teeth, and two unknown age Romano-British teeth. It was found (as expected) that all three D/L ratios changed significantly with chronological age. Standard calibration techniques were used to estimate ages for the six 19th C. AD specimens from regression equations estimated from the modern specimens, and also to predict (for the first time) the error associated with such estimates. Errors using aspartic acid were found to be similar to those obtained by other methods of age estimation from dental evidence, serine, and glutamic acid providing much poorer age estimates. ADditionally, a systematic difference in the age-enantiomeric ratio relationship was observed between modern and older dental samples. It is concluded that there is some fundamental difference in the observed enantiomeric ratios between modern teeth and older samples, possibly as a result of the chemical alteration of the dental proteins.
Sleepwalking Disorder and Mens Rea: A Review and Case Report
Authors: Thomas TN
Published: August 2015

This paper examines complications of sleepwalking disorder (DSM-IV 307.46), an arousal disorder or parasomnia, in relationship to mens rea, or culpable mental state necessary to a finding of criminal responsibility. The legal history of criminal intent and insanity is reviewed. A case of indecent exposure is discussed in a man with a history of closed head injuries and sleepwalking disorder who was found standing naked in the middle of a busy urban thoroughfare in the wee hours of the morning and arrested. On psychiatric evaluation, the defendant was found to have a long-standing sleepwalking disorder. AT trial, scientific literature and psychiatric expert testimony concerning sleepwalking disorder was presented. The psychiatrist opined that the defendant was probably sleepwalking at the time of the alleged offense. No rebuttal testimony was offered by the prosecution. The jury found the man not guilty. The author surveys the legal history of sleepwalking disorder and compares this example with others in which uncontrolled behavior during sleep has resulted in harm to the patient or to others. Clinical and forensic implications of the disorder are reviewed. The parasomnias' impact on forensic practice should be systematically studied. Intervention strategies should be refined and implemented.
The Differential Diagnosis of Ritual Abuse Allegations
Authors: Bernet W , Chang DK
Published: August 2015

Objective: Because psychiatrics do not have a consistent way to classify and define the forms of child abuse that may be mistaken for ritual abuse, the objective of this paper is to create a comprehensive differential diagnosis of allegations of ritual abuse. Method: The authors reviewed 60 articles, chapters, and books that contained allegations of ritual abuse or behaviors that might be mistaken for ritual abuse, that were made by patients or caretakers. Results: This paper clarifies the behaviors that represent or may be mistaken for ritual abuse: Cult-based ritual abuse, pseudoritualistic abuse, activities by organized satanic groups, repetitive psychopathological abuse, sexual abuse by pedophiles, child pornography portraying ritual abuse, distorted memory, false memory, false report due to a severe mental disorder, pseudologia phantastica, adolescent behavior simulating ritual abuse, epidemic hysteria, deliberate lying, and hoaxes. Conclusions: The differential diagnosis of allegations of ritual abuse is important in both clinical and forensic psychiatry. In some cases, it will not be possible to tell whether a particular allegation is factual or what the underlying mental processes are. It is important to separate the role of the mental health professional as therapist from the role as an expert witness in court.
Summary of Validation Studies from Twenty-Six Forensic Laboratories in the United States and Canada on the Use of the AmpliType® PM PCR Amplification and Typing Kit
Authors: Word CJ , Sawosik TM , Bing DH
Published: August 2015

A cooperative study was undertaken to collect and summarize the results of validation studies from forensic laboratories in the United States and Canada on the use of the AmpliType® PM PCR amplification and typing kit for genetic typing of forensic biological evidence. This report compiles data from 26 laboratories on: 1) reproducibility studies on DNA extracted from various samples, 2) genetic typing of DNA extracted from a variety of biological samples on various substrates, 3) the effects of exogenous chemicals, materials, and environmental factors on test results, 4) sensitivity studies to determine the least detectable amount of extracted genomic DNA that can be reliably typed, 5) analysis of mixtures containing two sources of genomic DNA, 6) cross-hybridization with DNA extracted from various nonhuman species, and 7) evaluation of assay performance on parallel studies with other genetic typing systems on proficiency test panels, mock cases, and adjudicated/nonprobative casework. Equivalent results were obtained by each laboratory that supplied data, demonstrating the reliability and consistency of the test. Overall, it can be concluded from this study that the AmpliType PM PCR amplification and typing kit meets the guidelines of the Technical Working Group on DNA Analysis Methods (TWGDAM) and there is general scientific acceptability of this kit for forensic DNA testing.
Antisocial Personality Disorder, Sexual Sadism, Malignant Narcissism, and Serial Murder
Authors: Geberth VJ , Turco RN
Published: August 2015

This paper examines the research on serial murder and its relationship to antisocial personality disorder and sexual sadism. The concept of malignant narcissism is also discussed. Case studies of serial killers are examined regarding the nature of sexual violation and crime scene behavior.
Computerized Polygraph Scoring System
Authors: Olsen DE , Harris JC , Capps MH , Ansley N
Published: August 2015

Digitized polygraph data were collected during criminal investigations to develop a computerized algorithm for evaluating zone comparison polygraph examinations. The algorithm was incorporated in a software system and provides consistent and objective examination interpretation. The software system evaluates the data using methods that are fundamentally different than those used by examiners. It is currently in use in more than 40 of the United States and in other countries around the world.
Foraging by Food Deprived Larvae of Neobellieria bullata (Diptera: Sarcophagidae)
Authors: Christopherson C , Gibo DL
Published: August 2015

Traditional entomological methods of estimating postmortem interval from developmental stages of fly larvae associated with the body are based on the premise that older larvae are not recruited from the surrounding environment. We found that food deprived second and third instar larvae of the fleshfly, Neobellieria bullata Parker, can locate beef liver over a distance of 33 cm, apparently by using chemical cues, and can crawl to the food within 90 min. The implications of these results are discussed with respect to methods of estimating postmortem interval by calculating rates of fly larvae development.
Fatal Air Transport Accidents Involving Athletic Teams from the United States
Authors: Murphy GK
Published: August 2015

Team sports at multiple levels of competition have steadily grown more popular and more economically significant in the United States and Canada during the past 150 years. Year-round competition across these large countries requires continual, reliable, and safe transportation of teams and their supporters, often by air, with the potential albeit small for loss of athletes, coaches, and entire teams in air crashes and other accidents. This paper reviews potential and actual accidents involving United States athletic teams from the 1930s to the present, including four fatal air charter crashes from 1960 through 1977. Common factors in crashes included inclement weather, component failure, human factors, and overloading or misloading aircraft. The safety of commercial and charter aviation has been significantly improved. However, weather, human factors, and ongoing maintenance and inspection of aircraft for safety remain significant problems which call for continued vigilance.
A Compilation of Fatal and Control Concentrations of Drugs in Postmortem Femoral Blood
Authors: Druid H , Holmgren P
Published: August 2015

A compilation of postmortem femoral blood concentrations of drugs is presented. The samples are collected from cases in which the cause of death was: A) certified intoxication by one substance alone, B) certified intoxication by more than one substance and/or alcohol, and C) certified other cause of death without incapacitation due to drugs. The concentrations were compared with blood concentrations detected in suspected drugged drivers (D), and with previously published fatal and therapeutic concentrations. The special features of this compilation are: 1) exclusively femoral blood concentrations are quoted, 2) all analyses are based on samples handled according to a standardized, quality-controlled procedure, 3) two control groups are included, and 4) one-substance-only intoxications are separated from other intoxications. The material is based on a selection of 15,800 samples sent to the Department of Forensic Chemistry in Linköping, Sweden, during 1992 to 1995 from the six forensic pathology units in Sweden, and the list includes 83 drugs. The compilation includes drugs, where previously published data are scarce. Furthermore, the data gathered from cases with other cause of death than intoxication (group C) constitute a new kind of reference information, which probably offers a better estimate of obviously non fatal levels in postmortem blood than any compilation of therapeutic concentrations in living subjects. The possible factors influencing postmortem drug concentrations are discussed.
Three-Dimensional Imaging in Forensic Anthropology: A Test Study Using the Macintosh
Authors: Ackermann RR
Published: August 2015

Forensic anthropologists have unique, albeit usually fleeting, access to modern skeletal remains. By constructing a database of three-dimensional images, such remains can be accessed long after the remains are gone. A method is proposed which uses Macintosh hardware and NIH Image software to preserve remains digitally through red-blue three-dimensional imaging techniques. Additionally, the qualitative and quantitative accuracy of these images is assessed. By creating this type of forensic database, anthropologists can address issues such as populational variance, thereby using modern forensic skeletal remains to explore some of the fundamental issues within anthropology.
Recommended Technique for Brain Removal to Retain Anatomic Integrity of the Pineal Gland in Order to Determine Its Size in Sudden Infant Death Syndrome
Authors: Sparks DL , Coyne CM , Sparks LM , Hunsaker JC
Published: August 2015

A standardized removal and dissection procedure is presented for human infant brain. A previously unreported cistern of the pineal gland must be severed at autopsy in order to preserve the gland's anatomic integrity during brain removal. Utilization of these methods to investigate Sudden Infant Death Syndrome brain tissue should facilitate interdisciplinary studies and comparisons of inter agency findings. We use these dissection procedures to extend our findings on reduced pineal gland size as an anatomic marker assisting the forensic pathologist in making the diagnosis of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.
Skin Scraping, Cupping, and Moxibustion That May Mimic Physical Abuse
Authors: Look KM , Look RM
Published: August 2015

Physical abuse and child abuse can manifest themselves as many different appearances. However, there are some cultural practices of Oriental medicine that may mimic physical and/or child abuse. This paper will discuss the practice of skin scraping, cupping, and moxibustion, which has been misdiagnosed as physical/child abuse by unfamiliar examiners.
Distinguishing Amphetamine, Methamphetamine and 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine from Other Sympathomimetic Amines After Rapid Derivatization with Propyl Chloroformate and Analysis by Gas Chromatography—Chemical Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Dasgupta A , Hart AP
Published: August 2015

Misidentification of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine as methamphetamine has been reported because of similar retention times of their derivatives in gas chromatography as well as very similar mass spectral fragmentation patterns in the conventional electron impact mode of analysis. Recently, a new derivatization of amphetamine and methamphetamine has been described using propyl chloroformate. The derivatization is easily accomplished at room temperature by adding the derivatizing reagent in the extraction solvent because the reagent is stable in the presence of water. The electron impact mass spectrum of derivatized methamphetamine (base peak, m/z 144, other peaks at m/z 102, 58) is similar to the electron impact mass spectrum of both derivatized pseudoephedrine (base peak, m/z 144, other peaks, m/z 102, 58), and ephedrine (base peak, m/z 144, other peaks, m/z 102, 58). Therefore, misidentification of ephedrine and pseudoephedrine as methamphetamine is possible even if this new derivatization technique is used with conventional gas chromatography/electron impact mass spectrometry. We demonstrated that by using chemical ionization mass spectrometry, this problem can be eliminated. In the chemical ionization, using methane as a reagent gas, derivatized methamphetamine showed a protonated molecular ion as a base peak at m/z 236 and other strong peaks at m/z 144 and 119, both derivatized ephedrine and pseudoephedrine showed a base peak at m/z 192 and another strong peak at m/z 148, thus differentiating them clearly from methamphetamine. Amphetamine also showed a protonated molecular ion at m/z 222 and other strong peaks at m/z 130 and 119, whereas phenylpropanolamine after derivatization with propyl chloroformate showed a base peak at m/z 220 and another strong peak at m/z 238, thus differentiating it from amphetamine. The designer drug 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) showed a molecular ion at m/z 279 using electron impact, after derivatization with propyl chloroformate. Using chemical ionization, a relatively stronger protonated molecular ion at m/z 280 was observed. We conclude that using chemical ionization instead of conventional electron impact and propyl chloroformate derivatization, misidentification of ephedrine or pseudoephedrine as methamphetamine or phenylpropanolamine as amphetamine can be eliminated.
HPLC/MS Determination of Buprenorphine and Norbuprenorphine in Biological Fluids and Hair Samples
Authors: Tracqui A , Kintz P , Mangin P
Published: August 2015

An original method, based upon HPLC (high performance liquid chromatography)/Ionspray-MS, has been developed for the identification of buprenorphine (BUP) and norbuprenorphine (norBUP) in biological fluids and hair samples. Biological fluids (2 mL) are extracted at pH 8.4 by CHCl3/2-propanol/n-heptane (25:10:65, v/v) after addition of deuterated BUP (BUP-d4, 10 ng). Hair samples (40 mg) are extracted in the same conditions after decontamination by CH2Cl2, mechanical pulverization, addition of BUP-d4 (1 ng), acidic incubation (1 mL 0.1 N HCl, 56°C overnight), then neutralization by NaOH. Analytes are separated on a 4-µm NovaPak C18 (Waters) column (150 by 2.0 mm, ID) with a mobile phase of acetonitrile/2 mM NH4COOH buffer, pH 3.0 (80:20, v/v; flow rate 200 µL/min; post column split 1:3). Detection is done by a Perkin-Elmer Sciex API-100 mass analyzer equipped with an ISP interface (nebulizing and curtain gas:99.95-% N2; main settings: orifice + 50 V, electron multiplier + 2400 V). The mean retention times for BUP, BUP-d4, and norBUP are 5.84, 5.79, and 4.42 min, respectively. For all compounds, mass spectra exhibit a unique, protonated molecular ion [M + H]+ at m/z 414 (norBUP), 468 (BUP), and 472 (BUP-d4), without any significant fragmentation. The lower limits of detection are 0.10 and 0.05 ng/mL blood, and 4 and 2 pg/mg hair for BUP and norBUP, respectively. BUP and norBUP concentrations measured in hair from six addicts under substitutive therapy by BUP ranged from 4 to 140 pg/mg, and from nondetected to 67 pg/mg, respectively. The good performances of this method in terms of both sensitivity and specificity make it a convenient alternative to HPLC/coulometry and GC/MS for the separate analysis of BUP and norBUP in biological samples.
An Improved High Resolution Single Method for Orosomucoid ORM1 and ORM2 Phenotyping
Authors: Sebetan IM , Oshida S , Tie J
Published: August 2015

An improved high resolution single method for orosomucoid ORM1 and ORM2 phenotyping using isoelectric focusing (IEF) in wide-scales ultrathin layer polyacrylamide gels of pH range 4.2 to 4.9 is presented. The method is reliable, simple, and provides an alternative for the three currently required ones for typing this genetic system.
Highly Informative Single-Stranded Conformation Polymorphism (SSCP) of Short Tandem Repeats in DNA Identification
Authors: Lucas M , Muñoz C , Pintado E , Solano F
Published: August 2015

The analysis of short tandem repeats (STR) by PCR is a useful technique widely used in DNA identification. Some loci have alleles differing in the number of complete repeat units, whereas others are polymorphic with alleles differing even to the level of a single base. Minor differences in the sequence of STR can confuse the analysis when the PCR product are poorly resolved in denaturing PAGE. The study by SSCP of STR in loci CSF1PO, TPOX, and THO1 and the alleles of locus D1S80 is shown in a representative case of paternity dispute. The analysis of short tandem repeats (STR) by the conformation polymorphisms of single-stranded DNA (SSCP) clearly enhanced the degree of resolution. The high resolution of SSCP of the STR may be the result of the arrangement of very prominent secondary structure and conformation due to the primary repetitive sequence. The method may be of particular interest to distinguish STR with similar PAGE mobility under denaturing conditions and to distinguish tandem repeats of the same size but different sequence.
Population Study of the HUMTH01, HUMVWA31A, HUMF13A1, and HUMFES/FPS STR Polymorphisms in the North of Portugal
Authors: Pinheiro F , Pontes L , Gené M , Huguet E , da Costa JP , Moreno P
Published: August 2015

Allele and genotype frequencies of four short tandem-repeat loci were determined in a population sample from the North of Portugal using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). After denaturing PAGE, 6 alleles were identified for HUMTH01 (n = 419), 9 alleles for HUMVWA31A (n = 376), 12 alleles for HUMF13A1 (n = 232), and 5 alleles for HUMFES/FPS (n = 409). No deviation from Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium was found. The allele frequencies observed are similar to those of the European populations compared. The combined power of discrimination is 0.999.
Genetic Variations at Four Tetrameric Tandem Repeat Loci in Korean Population
Authors: Park SJ , Lee WG , Lee SW , Kim SH , Koo BS , Budowle B , Rho HM
Published: August 2015

Allele and genotype frequencies for four tetrameric short tandem repeat (STR) loci, HumFES/FPS, HumFOLP23, HumGABRB15, and HumCYAR04, have been determined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification and subsequent polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis from approximately 200 genetically unrelated Koreans. This method allows a single base pair resolution and rapid typing with silver staining. The allele and genotype distributions satisfy Hardy-Weinberg expectation. Also, these STR loci have proven to be useful for forensic analyses and paternity tests in which the variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) loci have some limitations.
Co-amplification of the Amelogenin and HLA DQα Genes: Optimization and Validation
Authors: Taylor MS , Challed-Spong A , Johnson EA
Published: August 2015

An optimized PCR-based system allowing the coamplification of the HLA DQα and the amelogenin genes has been developed and validated, enabling simultaneous identity testing and sex determination. Sensitivities below 100 pg of human DNA were obtained, using a convenient, high resolution agarose gel system and ethidium bromide staining. Comparison of several co-amplification methods revealed that the best sensitivities and most consistent results were obtained using a hotstart technique employing an inactivating antibody to Taq polymerase. HLA DQα typing results were reliably obtained using the co-amplification process. The sensitivity and ease of this system rendered it directly applicable to forensic analyses. The optimized techniques described here have been validated and successfully applied to forensic cases including People vs. Trujillo, in which the California Superior Court accepted these techniques as scientifically reliable and admissible. Work currently in progress has demonstrated that the described protocol may also be used to co-amplify the amelogenin gene with the AmpliType® PM (Polymarker) system, allowing identity testing at six loci in addition to sex determination.
Estimation of Age from Teeth by Amino Acid Racemization: Influence of Fixative
Authors: Ohtani S , Ohhira H , Watanabe A , Ogasawara A , Sugimoto H
Published: August 2015

To determine the age of a subject from teeth accurately utilizing the racemization rates of amino acids, standard samples of the same tooth species from the same jaw are necessary as controls, as well as data for identification. However, standard teeth are generally stored in fixatives such as ethanol and formalin. We investigated and compared the degree of progression of racemization of dentinal aspartic acid in teeth stored in 95% ethanol, 10% formalin, or 10% neutral formalin fixatives. The racemization rate of dentinal aspartic acid in teeth stored in 10% neutral formalin was the highest, followed by that for teeth stored in 10% formalin then that for teeth stored in 95% ethanol. Teeth stored in these fixatives at 15°C showed almost no progression of racemization. The racemization ratio (D/L ratio) in teeth extracted 10 years previously was almost unchanged from that at the time of extraction, and allowed an accurate evaluation of the subjects age at tooth extraction.
Gas Residues of Engine Starting Fluid in Postmortem Sample from an Arsonist
Authors: Schuberth J
Published: August 2015

Diethyl ether was found in samples of the blood, urine, and lung from a fire victim. Because the lung also carried a number of low-boiling paraffins, it was inferred that the detected compounds came from engine starting fluid, which the victim apparently had been exposed to while he intentionally used it as an accelerant to start the fire. The reported death illustrates the value of searching post mortem samples for highly volatile residues of possible arson accelerants.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Young Adult due to Right Ventricular Dysplasia
Authors: Lane CD
Published: August 2015

This case report illustrates a rare familial cardiomyopathy first reported in the medical literature in 1982 known as right ventricular dysplasia (right ventricular cardiomyopathy). The patient is a young woman with a history of cardiac arrhythmias suspected to be associated with prolapsed mitral valve who presented to the Berks County Coroner's office as a sudden unexpected death in a young adult. It is important to recognize the illustrated classic cardiac pathology of this rare entity for clinical management, as an anatomic explanation of cause of sudden death and for the accumulation of statistics to establish frequency, conditions of predisposition, response to therapy and predicted outcome.