bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Postmortem Fate of Pat Gregory: A Disinterred Native American
Authors: Murad TA , Murad TD
Published: August 2015

In late June 1990, the Mono County Sheriff's Department in Bridgeport, CA contacted the Physical Anthropology Human Identification Laboratory (PAHIL) at California State University, Chico to seek assistance in the identification of a recently discovered skull.

To assist with possible identification, the cranium received a classic physical anthropological/morphological analysis to suggest the decedent's sex, age at death, ancestral affiliation, and uniqueness. It was concluded the cranium was that of an older male, and someone with mixed ancestry, probably Native American/White. Suggested uniquenesses were an eroded and greasy texture, with adhering white sand, evidence of healed antemortem nasal fractures, and a bifid left occipital condyle.

The cranium was confiscated from a man suspected of vandalizing a Native American cemetery just south of the community of Lee Vining. The cemetery was established in the mid-1800's by local Native American tribes. Although ownership of the land was disputed by the US Forest Service (the Inyo National Forest), and the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), county authorities claimed that because the incident involved the desecration of a cemetery and human remains, it was a legal issue, and therefore, the Sheriff's Department had jurisdiction over the case if not the land.

The suspect pled guilty to the possession of Native American remains but claimed not to have desecrated a grave. Over the next year and a half, members of the Native American community representing various tribes sought the return of the cranium, while also seeking assurance that it belonged to the vandalized grave. While county, US Forest Service, and LADWP officials continued to argue over whom had jurisdiction of the remains the superior court judge ordered the county to pay for any analysis necessary to determine if the cranium belonged to the decedent in question. This report addresses the conclusions of that analysis and the disposition of the case. Furthermore, the report addresses the forensic value to Native Americans of the continued study of a wide variety of human skeletal remains.
Geographic Origin Determination of Heroin and Cocaine Using Site-Specific Isotopic Ratio Deuterium NMR
Authors: Hays PA , Remaud GS , Jamin É , Martin Y-L
Published: August 2015

SNIF-NMR® (Site-specific natural isotopic fractionation measured by deuterium NMR) was employed on 36 heroin samples from seven different known origins, and two cocaine samples from two different known origins. Heroin has two “synthetic” deuterium labeled sites (the two acetyls from acetic anhydride, each representing three equivalent nuclei) and 15 “natural” deuterium labeled sites (originating from the morphine produced in the opium plant). The “natural” sites have the potential for determining geographic location of the original opium plant, while the “synthetic” sites could assist in giving information about the commercial source of acetic anhydride used to convert morphine to heroin. Cocaine has 15 “natural” deuterium labeled sites. This study shows that SNIF-NMR® has some use in determining the geographic origin of heroin and also has good potential for determining the geographical origin of cocaine.
Drug-Related Deaths Among Recently Released Prisoners in the Strathclyde Region of Scotland
Authors: Seymour A , Oliver JS , Black M
Published: August 2015

Drug abuse and its consequences are everyday problems encountered globally, and Scotland is no exception. During a study of drug-related deaths in the Strathclyde region of Scotland it was noted that known drug users who had recently been released from prison were at high risk of dying from a drug overdose. The majority of deaths occurred within one week of the release date and polydrug use was prevalent. Morphine was the most frequently encountered drug and this was found in combination with benzodiazepines in a significant number of cases. This paper highlights the dangers of resuming drug consumption following a period of abstinence.
Ketamine in Non-Hospital and Hospital Deaths in New York City
Authors: Gill JR , Stajíc M
Published: August 2015

We reviewed all ketamine-positive deaths (87) examined at the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner over a two-year period (1997 to 1999). There were 15 non-hospital deaths with 12 due to acute multidrug intoxications, one due to sarcoidosis, and two due to physical injury (blunt and thermal). In no instance was a fatal intoxication caused exclusively by ketamine. Opiates (10/15), followed by amphetamines (7/15) and cocaine (6/15), were the most frequent co-intoxicants. Ethanol was found in only one death. The race of all decedents was white and the majority were men (11/15) between the ages of 18 and 30 years. The remaining 72 instances of positive ketamine findings were hospital deaths following surgical procedures or burns.
Validation of the PowerPlex 1.1™ Loci for Use in Human Identification
Authors: Greenspoon SA , Lytle PJ , Turek SA , Rolands JM , Scarpetta MA , Carr CD
Published: August 2015

STR typing is now the favored method of DNA analysis for the purposes of human identification in the forensic community. The Forensic Services Division of the Detroit Police Department has completed its validation of the PowerPlex 1.1™ loci (CSF1PO, TPOX, THO1, vWA, D16S539, D7S820, D13S317, and D5S818) for use in forensic casework. Detroit Metro Area Red Cross samples were typed from each of five racial/ethnic groups—the Hispanic, Caucasian, African American, Asian, and American Indian populations—and allele and genotype frequencies were calculated. A rare off-ladder variant (9.1 allele at D7S820) was identified among the database samples.

A number of validation studies were performed. DNA was extracted from different substrates and typed as expected, except for the DNA extracted from leather (signal absent from the D16S539, D7S820, D13S317, CSF1PO, and TPOX loci) and from dirt (no PCR product generated). The minor contributor in the mixture study (250 pg input DNA) was facile to discern. The Concordance study, the variety of fluids from the same individual, and NIST standards studies all produced the expected results. Finally, STR data confirmed previous DNA typing results from adjudicated casework samples.
Fingerprints and DNA: STR Typing of DNA Extracted from Adhesive Tape after Processing for Fingerprints
Authors: Zamir A , Springer E , Glattstein B
Published: August 2015

An exhibit that is often received for examination in cases of robbery or terrorist activity is adhesive tape. This type of exhibit can often, but not always, be successfully processed for fingerprints. The question arises whether or not it is possible to extract and type DNA after the tape has been sequentially processed for fingerprints. In this work, various donors left fingerprints on the adhesive side of tapes. The tapes were then sequentially processed for fingerprints using an alternate light source, cyanoacrylate fuming, and staining with BY-40 and then crystal violet. DNA was subsequently successfully extracted, amplified and typed for six STR loci.
Evaluation of 1,2-Indanedione and 5,6-Dimethoxy-1,2-Indanedione for the Detection of Latent Fingerprints on Porous Surfaces
Authors: Roux C , Jones N , Lennard C , Stoilovic M
Published: August 2015

The ability of 1,2-indanedione and 5,6-dimethoxy-1,2-indanedione to detect latent prints on porous surfaces, as compared to DFO and ninhydrin, has been evaluated. Comparisons of prints developed under various conditions determined the optimum development conditions for the new reagents. The indanediones tested were found to have lower detection limits for glycine. The carrier solvent used was found to affect the quality of the prints developed. In Arklone, the new reagents developed prints that displayed superior luminescence to those developed with DFO. In HFE 7100, 1,2-indanedione and 5,6-dimethoxy-1,2-indanedione gave superior luminescence to DFO after zinc salt treatment and cooling with liquid nitrogen, both of which improve the luminescence of prints developed with 1,2-indanediones, 1,2-Indanediones could offer less expensive but effective alternatives to DFO. With further optimization, the new reagents may supersede DFO as the method of choice for the detection of latent fingerprints on porous surfaces.
Improved Method for Shooting Distance Estimation. Part 1. Bullet Holes in Clothing Items
Authors: Glattstein B , Vinokurov A , Levin N , Zeichner A
Published: August 2015

An improved method for firing distance estimation on clothing is described. The novel part of the method includes transfer of total nitrite (nitrite ions and smokeless powder residues) from the target to an adhesive lifter. After the transfer, lead and copper deposits around the bullet entrance hole are visualized by rhodizonate and rubeanic acid, respectively. The Modified Greiss Test is carried out after alkaline hydrolysis of the smokeless powder residues on the adhesive lifter.
Anatomical Location of Bitemarks and Associated Findings in 101 Cases from the United States
Authors: Pretty IA , Sweet D
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this paper is to update and confirm previous studies that examined the anatomical location of human bitemarks. This information is useful to forensic odontologists and pathologists, physicians, and coroners who must be familiar with the most likely locations of bitemarks. The data are also useful for those involved in bitemark research.

Using the legal database “Lexis,” 101 bitemark cases were identified from the United States Courts of Appeal. Cases were included in the study if they provided details concerning the bitemark, such as anatomical location, number of injuries, and information concerning the victim. Information on 148 bites was collated. These data are presented in tabular and graphical form to allow comparisons between males and females, victims and perpetrators, adults and children, and the crime types associated with human bites.
Psychological Factors in the Determination of Suicide in Self-Inflicted Gunshot Head Wounds
Authors: Weinberger LE , Sreenivasan S , Gross EA , Markowitz E , Gross BH
Published: August 2015

Self-inflicted contact gunshot wounds to the head have usually been considered presumptive of suicide. This study evaluates whether sufficient psychological data are gathered in such cases to support a manner of death determination of suicide. We suggest that law enforcement agencies and coroner's departments do not fully explore the decedent's state of mind at the time of death. We studied the first 50 consecutive deaths in 1993 in a major metropolitan county due to self-inflicted gunshot wounds to the head. The sample consists primarily of unmarried, white males, with a median age of 35 years, who displayed psychiatric disturbance, primarily depression, before their death. Younger individuals were often under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs at the time of death. Stressors, such as the loss of a loved one, are common among young and middle-aged persons, while serious health problems are found among the majority of middle-aged and elderly individuals. Many of the findings of this study are consistent with the literature regarding individuals who commit suicide. Although data on many important psychological risk factors are missing in most cases, sufficient psychological material is gathered about the decedent's mental condition at the time of death to support a suicide determination.
Postmortem Redistribution of Morphine and Its Metabolites
Authors: Gerostamoulos J , Drummer OH
Published: August 2015

The postmortem redistribution of morphine, morphine-3-glucuronide, morphine-6-glucuronide and total morphine was assessed in 40 heroin-related deaths. In blood taken from subclavian, heart, and femoral regions, concentrations of morphine and its metabolites were similar. While there was a trend for higher concentrations in heart blood, when compared with femoral or subclavian blood, this was not significant. There was also no significant difference in concentrations between admission and autopsy blood in which the postmortem interval was on average 59 h. From our observations, significant postmortem redistribution of morphine and its metabolites seems unlikely.
A Density Gradient Technique for Use in Forensic Soil Analysis
Authors: Petraco N , Kubic T
Published: August 2015

A high-density aqueous salt solution for the preparation of density gradients is presented. It has been used successfully by the authors in forensic soil analysis. It has a density range that allows for the separation of a soil specimen's heavy mineral components. It has no odor or toxic fumes, which eliminates the need to use a hood during preparation, and is far superior to the organic liquids normally used to prepare density gradients. This liquid should cause many forensic scientists to reexamine their attitudes towards using density gradients in forensic soil casework.
Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) Established in the Vicinity of Knoxville, Tennessee, USA
Authors: Shahid SA , Hall RD , Haskell NH , Merritt RW
Published: August 2015

The hairy maggot blow fly, Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) was collected in large numbers as both adults and immatures in the Knoxville, Tennessee, area during 1998 and is likely established there. The distribution of this species in the Old World, isothermal data, and its collection from mid-Michigan during 1998 suggest that it will eventually occupy most of the U.S. The forensic importance of C. rufifacies makes it probable that it will factor into an increasing number of medicolegal cases, but the expanding distribution of this species decreases its utility as a geographic indicator when postmortem movement of decedents is suspected.
Formation of an Interfering Substance, 3,4-Dimethyl-5-Phenyl-1,3-Oxazolidine, During a Pseudoephedrine Urinalysis
Authors: Lewis RJ , Huffine EF , Chaturvedi AK , Canfield DV , Mattson J
Published: August 2015

During fatal aviation accident investigations, biosamples from the victims are submitted to the FAA Civil Aeromedical Institute (CAMI) for drug analysis. In the process of one such analysis by CAMI, an unknown substance was found in a urine sample. Simultaneous screening by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and gas chromatography/FID (GC/FID) suggested the presence of pseudoephedrine. A subsequent routine confirmation analysis of a separate urine aliquot by GC Fourier transform infrared (GC/FTIR) and GC mass spectrometry (GC/MS) indicated that the retention times of the unknown substance matched with those of pseudoephedrine. However, its infrared and mass spectra were different—the -OH and-NH groups were missing, a C-O-C group was present, and the molar mass was 12 atomic mass units (amu) more than that of pseudoephedrine. A subsequent literature search suggested that ephedrine-like amines react with aldehydes to form oxazolidines. Therefore, the 12-amu increase could be accounted for by condensation of pseudoephedrine with formaldehyde. Since this aldehyde is present in various grades of methanol and ethyl acetate, and these solvents were used during the solid-phase extraction, 3,4-dimethyl-5-phenyl-1,3-oxazolidine was synthesized by using (+)-pseudoephedrine·HCl and formaldehyde. The analytical findings of the synthesized compound were consistent with those of the unknown interfering substance, confirming that it was the oxazolidine. Aldehyde contaminants in solvents or specimens can transform drugs of interest and may result in misidentification of a compound originally present in specimens. Therefore, chemicals used in analyses should be of the highest available purity, and a multi-analytical approach should be adopted to maintain a high degree of quality assurance.
Sequence Variation of New Alleles at the Short Tandem Repeat D19S253 Locus
Authors: Brito RM , Ribeiro T , Viriato L , Vieira-Silva C , Espinheira R , Pinto-Ribeiro I , Geada H
Published: August 2015

This paper reports the sequences of two new alleles identified in a population database study on the short tandem repeat D19S253 locus. A Portuguese Caucasian population and a Portuguese African population were studied. Forty-four selected alleles were sequenced and 11 different alleles were found. All the sequenced alleles shown to possess a simple tetranucleotide GATA repeat region structure. The two new alleles, alleles 6 and 16, follow the simple repeat pattern. During paternity investigation casework, 1028 meiosis were analyzed and five isolated genetic incompatibilities detected. In one case, a non-detectable allele with the used set of primers could be the explanation. In the other four cases, single-step mutations could be considered. The mutation rate obtained for this locus was 3.89 × 10−3.
The First Mail Bomb?
Authors: Burnett B , Golubovs P
Published: August 2015

A news item in the newspaper, the Evening Star, for the Country, October 18, 1833, probably is the first report of a mail bomb in the United States. It is also likely to be the first defusing of a mail bomb. The device appeared to be extraordinarily sophisticated and would have likely worked had it not been for suspicions of the recipient of the bomb.
Allele Frequencies for the CODIS Core STR Loci in Connecticut Populations
Authors: Scherczinger CA , Hintz JL , Peck BJ , Adamowicz MS , Bourke MT , Coyle HM , Ladd C , Yang NCS , Budowle B , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequencies for the CODIS Core STR Loci in Connecticut Populations
Age Estimation from Sternal Ends of Ribs by Phase Analysis in South African Blacks
Authors: Oettlé AC , Steyn M
Published: August 2015

The sternal ends of ribs are used in age determination of unknown adult remains. Standards for American populations have been described and tested. The method described by Íşcan et al. is reviewed and compared with other age markers of the human skeleton. Three hundred and thirty-nine (265 male, 74 female) sternal ends of right fourth ribs, belonging to black individuals deceased in the Gauteng Province of South Africa, were collected during 1994, 1995, and 1996. Three South African investigators applied the existing method and found the repeatability among them acceptable, although the method was less accurate to predict age in this population. New phases with adjusted criteria and age ranges were developed specifically for the South African black population. A tendency toward delayed maturation was found, as well as a diversion of the appearance of female ribs perimenopausally. Future studies involving more individuals in the older age ranges, and females of all ages, could broaden the representativeness of these phases.
Review of Physical Evidence in Forensic Science
Authors: Siegel JA
Published: August 2015

The authors do not state the audience that this book was written for, but, judging from the level of the material and its length and breadth, it seems apparent that they had criminal investigators in mind. This is supported by the contents of the last chapter on legal aspects of forensic science, which deals almost exclusively with search and seizure issues.
Algal Colonization of Submerged Carcasses in a Mid-Order Woodland Stream
Authors: Casamatta DA , Verb RG
Published: August 2015

One of the primary goals of forensic pathology is the determination of time of death. In aquatic systems, one method to do this is to analyze the colonization of a corpse by algae. Algal communities typically follow a serial colonization pattern, therefore the taxa present at any given time may provide clues about post-mortem submersion time. This study was undertaken to examine the algal colonization on rat carcasses in a medium-order woodland stream. Two habitats were studied: a low flow pool and a high flow riffle, with rats being removed from each site every 3 to 6 days over 31 days. The diversity of colonizing taxa increased at both sites as the study progressed, and after 17 days similar taxa were present (Sorensen's similarity index >60%) in each site. Some taxa, such as desmids (Chlorophyta), tended to increase in diversity throughout the study, making them possible indicators of submersion time. Diatoms were the most abundant taxa found in each site and accounted for 63 of the 92 total taxa identified. Due to their ubiquitous presence in nearly all streams, we suggest that diatoms may be the key organisms for the study of postmortem submersion in lotic systems.
Distribution of HLA-DQA1, Polymarker, CSF1PO, vWA, TH01, TPOX, D16S539, D7S820, D13S317, and D5S818 Alleles in East Bengali and West Punjabi Populations from Indo-Pak Subcontinent
Authors: Tahir MA , Herrera RJ , Khan AA , Kashyap VK , Duncan G , Barna C , Budowle B , Rowold D , Amjad M , Sinha S
Published: August 2015

Blood samples were collected from 115 individuals residing in the Pakistani state of West Punjab and 81 Bengali individuals residing in the state of East Bengal, India. These samples were analyzed for the loci HLA-DQA1, PM (LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, and GC) and eight short tandem repeats: CSF1PO, TPOX, THO1, vWA, D16S539, D7S820, D13S317, and D5S818. Departures from Hardy Weinberg (HWE) were observed in Punjabi population at LDLR, THO1, D13S317, D5S818, and D16S539 and at CSF 1PO and THO1 in Bengali population.
Detection and Correction of a Migration Anomaly on a 310 Genetic Analyzer
Authors: Shewale JG , Richey SL , Sinha SK
Published: August 2015

During STR analysis on the 310 Genetic Analyzer, retarded migration of GS500ROX size standards and alleles in some samples was observed. The contribution of reagents, capillary and performance optimized polymer POP 4 to the observed anomaly was experimentally eliminated. Variation in electrophoresis temperature between 55°C and 65°C did not alter the rate of migration of GX500ROX size standard and sample alleles. An eroded connector for the cathode mounted on the heat plate assembly caused the abnormal migration. Hence, it is important to verify the mobility of all fragments in the size standard for each sample to avoid any erroneous allele calls by the automated data analysis software.
Allele Frequency Distributions for Three STR Loci in the Han and Thai Populations
Authors: Huang DX , Zhang L , Wu MY
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequency Distributions for Three STR Loci in the Han and Thai Populations
Review of: Enclosure Fire Dynamics
Authors: Hill SM
Published: August 2015

Understandably, one of the prilnary requirements for all individuals involved in any aspect of modern fire safety and fire protection engineering, including fire scene investigation and reconstruction, is to understand how a fire behaves in an enclosed space. Enclosure Fire Dynamics addresses, in a clear and logical manner, physical changes in such an environment. The book is a collaboration of two internationally renowned experts in the field of fire protection engineering and presents the reader with an academic understanding of the dominating mechanisms influencing fires in compxtments, or enclosures.
Investigating the Effect of Changing Ammunition on the Composition of Organic Additives in Gunshot Residue (OGSR)
Authors: MacCrehan WA , Patierno ER , Duewer DL , Reardon MR
Published: August 2015

The measurement of the organic additives in smokeless gunpowder is an attractive approach for the detection of handgun use because it provides compositional information that can help associate residues and unfired gunpowder. We investigate several factors that will be required to advance the characterization of organic gunshot residue (OGSR) as a useful forensic tool, including evaluating residue contamination from previously fired ammunition, particle-to-particle compositional variability, and compositional features resulting from the type of firing primer used. Using ammunition loaded with known smokeless powders containing different stabilizers, a sequence of shots was fired from a .357 magnum revolver, and the muzzle exit residues were collected. Compositional analysis of the residues, both in bulk and as single particles, showed only a trace of the previously fired powder in the first shot and none in subsequent shots. In an additional experiment testing conventional leaded and the new lead-free firing primers, the OGSR composition was found not to depend on the primer type.
Continuous Quality Improvement as a Management Concept for Death Investigation Systems
Authors: Dibdin JD
Published: August 2015

Continuous quality improvement (CQI) represents a management technique where the basic approach to managing quality consists of setting a standard for a work process, measuring variation in the work process in relation to the standard, and then implementing programs to decrease variation and improve end results. Everyone providing a service becomes involved both in understanding how quality is measured and in discussing how to improve quality. A team approach is adopted and instead of focusing on poor quality outcomes and how to avoid them, the team becomes involved in setting continuously improving standards for better performance and in finding ways to meet those standards. The objective is to meet or exceed consumer or user expectations.

Relevant related concepts such as survey research, needs determination and outcomes analysis, and the importance of a mission statement are discussed using a medical examiner system as an example.
Using Brain MERMER Testing to Detect Knowledge Despite Efforts to Conceal
Authors: Farwell LA , Smith SS
Published: August 2015

This experiment examined the accuracy and reliability of the memory and encoding related multifaceted electroencephalographic response (MERMER) technique for detecting information related to events subjects have experienced, despite subjects' efforts to conceal that knowledge. Information obtained through interviews was used to develop stimulus sets consisting of words and phrases presented to subjects visually by computer. Sets were composed of three types of stimuli: life experience-related (Probes), stimuli the subject was asked to memorize and respond to (Targets), and irrelevant information (Irrelevants). Each set of stimuli was tested on two individuals: (1) one individual who had participated in the event in question—and thus had the relevant information stored in his/her brain, and (2) one who had not. Six subjects were tested. Electrical brain responses to the stimuli were recorded non-invasively from the scalp and analyzed. MERMERs, (memory and encoding related multifaceted electroencephalographic responses), of which the P300 is a sub-component, were used to determine whether the subject had the relevant information stored in his brain (information present) or not (information absent), thus indicating whether or not each subject had participated in the real-life event in question. Bootstrapping was used to analyze and compare the responses to the three types of stimuli. As predicted, MERMERs were elicited by Probe stimuli only in the subjects who had participated in the investigated event, by Target stimuli in all subjects, and in no case by Irrelevant stimuli. For each of the six subjects, brain MERMER testing correctly determined whether the subject had participated in and consequently knew about the event in question (information present) or had not participated (information absent). The statistical confidence for this determination was 99.9% in five cases and 90.0% in one case. The article concludes with a discussion of areas of future research and the potential for using this new technology as an investigative tool in criminal cases.
Allele Frequency for D1S80 Locus in Tamil Population (South India)
Authors: Vanaja N , Panneercelvam S , Sankaranarayanan KR , Baskar D , Rajmohan S , Nalina K , Damodaran C
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequency for D1S80 Locus in Tamil Population (South India)
Allele Frequencies for Four STR Loci (D16S539, TH01, TPOX, and CSF1PO) in African American and Caucasian Populations from Marion County, Indiana, USA
Authors: Balamurugan K , Granoff M , Budowle B , Tahir MA
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequencies for Four STR Loci (D16S539, TH01, TPOX, and CSF1PO) in African American and Caucasian Populations from Marion County, Indiana, USA
Postmortem Assessment of Fetal Diaphyseal Femoral Length: Validation of a Radiographic Methodology
Authors: Adalian P , Piercecchi-Marti MD , Bourliere-Najean B , Panuel M , Fredouille C , Dutour O , Leonetti G
Published: August 2015

Depending on the general condition of fetal remains, forensic specialists might face difficulties concerning age estimation. Reference tables and regression equations are helpful devices in this task, although they are generally applied for complete fetuses or fetal remains including soft tissues. However, the problem of age estimation stays for osseous remains, both for entire bones and ossified parts, since most of the reference tables come from ultrasonographic measurements, which are not easily reproducible on fetal osseous remains. Furthermore, the ultrasonographic measurements contain slight errors in comparison to the real anatomical ones. This study describes a radiographic protocol and a measurement technique that facilitate and improve bone measurements, and therefore, facilitate age estimation, too. A qualitative criterion, namely a clear-cut bony endplate, was defined and tested. Its reliability (repeatability and reproducibility) turned out to be good, showing nonsignificative differences to the threshold of 0.05, with average errors of 0.26 and 0.44 mm respectively. Moreover, concerning the test of eventual size differences between the right and left femurs showed a P value < 0.0001. The test of the qualitative criterion was based on the comparison of the radiographic in situ femur measurements and the radiographic measurements of the same bones after dissection. The results were satisfactory, since an average error of 0.58 mm was obtained, which did not give any significant differences to the threshold of 0.05. It was concluded that this methodology provides an easy and precise new measurement tool for forensic practice, and can allow us to establish some nonultrasonographic tables, which fit our population.
Processes Involved in the Development of Latent Fingerprints Using the Cyanoacrylate Fuming Method
Authors: Lewis LA , Smithwick RW , Devault GL , Bolinger B , Lewis SA
Published: August 2015

Chemical processes involved in the development of latent fingerprints using the cyanoacrylate fuming method have been studied. Two major types of latent prints have been investigated—clean and oily prints. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) has been used as a tool for determining the morphology of the polymer developed separately on clean and oily prints after cyanoacrylate fuming. A correlation between the chemical composition of an aged latent fingerprint, prior to development, and the quality of a developed fingerprint has been observed in the morphology. The moisture in the print prior to fuming has been found to be more important than the moisture in the air during fuming for the development of a useful latent print. In addition, the amount of time required to develop a high quality latent print has been found to be within 2 min. The cyanoacrylate polymerization process is extremely rapid. When heat is used to accelerate the fuming process, typically a period of 2 min is required to develop the print. The optimum development time depends upon the concentration of cyanoacrylate vapors within the enclosure.
Adhesive Tape Analysis: Establishing the Evidential Value of Specific Techniques
Authors: Maynard P , Gates K , Roux C , Lennard C
Published: August 2015

This study investigated the evidential value of specific methods of analysis for packaging tapes and clear adhesive tapes available in Australia. Fifty-eight adhesive tapes were analyzed using a wide range of optical, physical, and chemical techniques. The results were collated for the purpose of creating an Australian database of adhesive tapes, which would be of assistance in criminal investigation. Each technique was evaluated for its discriminating power, both for comparative purposes and for the identification of adhesive tapes by comparing unknown samples with the database. The combined discriminating power of the techniques applied is very high. It is possible to individually identify the source of an unknown adhesive tape sample in many instances by searching the database. It is also possible to form an opinion on the significance of a failure-to-discriminate result in comparative casework. Further work is still needed to expand and update the database, as well as compiling data on the relative market share of various products.
Enhancement of an Insufficient Dye-Formation in the Ninhydrin Reaction by a Suitable Post Treatment Process
Authors: Ramminger U , Nickel U , Geide B
Published: August 2015

A study of the reaction between ninhydrin and alanine has been carried out taking into account that, adhered on the surface of a dry porous medium such as paper, a quasi-heterogeneous reaction has to take place. Instead of amino acids released from human sweat glands, aqueous solutions of alanine were taken to deliver a given amount of amino acid to the sample. The dye density, obtained after using a standard development process, could noticeably be increased by setting a drop of water on the dye dot, thus indicating that not all the alanine had been used for dye formation during the usually applied process. The incomplete reaction can be explained by the problem of bringing the reactants into contact with each other when both are in the solid phase in the porous surrounding. The temporary presence of water allows a reorientation of the insoluble reactants. With fingerprints an increase in both the rate of development and the final dye density could be obtained when the sample was post treated after the developing process with the blank solvent, thus also the background coloration could be decreased. The ideas presented in this paper may form the basis for a modification of developing processes with ninhydrin in order to increase the proportion of amino acids present (in the sample) used in dye formation without data loss.
Cytological Detection of Spermatozoa: Comparison of Three Staining Methods
Authors: Allery J-P , Telmon N , Mieusset R , Blanc A , Rougé D
Published: August 2015

Sperm detection can be an important factor in confirming sexual assault in cases of rape. This paper compares three of the most commonly used staining methods cited in the scientific literature: Christmas tree, hematoxylin-eosin, and alkaline fuchsin. The population studied was composed of 174 consenting women seen at the Male Infertility Center in Toulouse, France. The date of their last sexual intercourse was accurately known. Alkaline fuchsin did not seem effective in detecting spermatozoa in vaginal samples. Compared with hematoxylin-eosin, Christmas tree stain appeared to be the most useful test in the first 72 h. Two external factors were associated with decreased detection of spermatozoa: time since intercourse and sperm volume.
Absorption of Ignitable Liquids into Polyethylene/Polyvinylidine Dichloride Bags
Authors: Kocisko MJ
Published: August 2015

Clear plastic bags are often used for the collection, sampling and storage of ignitable liquid evidence. They are popular because they are easy to store, transport and are inexpensive. Cryovac and Globus brand polyethylene/polyvinylidine dichloride bags were tested for suitability in storing ignitable liquid evidence. Standards of diesel, kerosene and gasoline were placed in the bags and sampled by passive headspace adsorption. The bags were then heated to determine if absorbed components of the standards could be released upon heating. Recovered extracts were analyzed by GC and GCMS. These bags were found to absorb components of diesel, kerosene, and gasoline, and were also found to produce interfering by-products that obstruct the chromatographic results. Evidence containers need to be tested to ensure that low levels of ignitable liquids are not missed.
Survey of Stalking at WPI
Authors: LeBlanc JJ , Levesque GJ , Richardson JB , Berka LH
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the amount of stalking taking place on the Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) campus in which computers play such a huge role in the lives of the students. Our results were then compared with those reported in a stalking study done at West Virginia University (WVU). Surprisingly (to us), a smaller percentage of both females and males were stalked at WPI. The use of the Internet did not play a major role in stalking as we had expected. Results reported in a TV news report and a newspaper article indicate, however, that much less stalking occurs among the general population than does at WVU and WPI.
Suicidal Deaths Using Fireworks
Authors: Blanco-Pampín JM
Published: August 2015

The use of commercial explosives is an unusual method of commiting suicide, and only a few cases have been described in the medicolegal literature. In this paper, two cases of suicide are considered that reflect backgrounds of financial problems and psychological illnesses, respectively. Both individuals comitted suicide by detonating an explosive (fireworks). In the first case putting the explosive on his head and in the second case into his mouth. In both cases the cause of death was the destruction of the central nervous system. The following cases emphasize the importance of the forensic pathologist in the recognition of the scene, as well as the systematical collection of trace evidence of the explosion for their subsequent study in the laboratory and their correlation with the autopsy findings.
Allele Frequencies for Three STR Loci in a Population Sample from Catalonia (Spain) Using a Simple Manual Triplex PCR Method
Authors: Gené M , Borrego N , Piqué E , Mazzara R , Corbella J , Huguet E , Moreno P
Published: August 2015

Allele Frequencies for Three STR Loci in a Population Sample from Catalonia (Spain) Using a Simple Manual Triplex PCR Method
Bootstrap Methods for Sex Determination from the Os Coxae Using the ID3 Algorithm
Authors: McBride DG , Dietz MJ , Vennemeyer MT , Meadors SA , Benfer RA , Louanna Furbee N
Published: August 2015

This study presents a method for identifying small subsets of morphological attributes of the skeletal pelvis that have consistently high reliability in assigning the sex of unknown individuals. An inductive computer algorithm (ID3) was applied to a bootstrapped training set/test set design in which the model was developed from 70% of the sample and tested on the remaining 30%. Relative accuracy of sex classification was evaluated for seven subsets of 31 morphological features of the adult os coxae. Using 115 ossa coxarum selected from the Terry Collection, a selected suite of the three most consistently diagnostic attributes averaged 93.1% correct classification of individuals by sex over ten trials. Attribute suites developed collaboratively with three well known skeletal experts averaged 87.8, 91.3, and 89.6% correct. The full set of 31 attributes averaged 90.0% accuracy. We demonstrate a small set of three criteria, selected and ordered by ID3, that is more accurate than other combinations, and suggest that ID3 is a useful approach for developing identification systems.
The Utilization of MS-MS Method in Detection of GSRs
Authors: Wu Z , Tong Y , Yu J , Zhang X , Yang C , Pan C , Deng X , Wen Y , Xu Y
Published: August 2015

This paper describes a novel method to detect gunshot residues (GSRs). The components contained in the double-based smokeless powder were separated by using a HPLC system with UV detection at 223 nm. The result indicated that there are mainly two kinds of organic ingredients in the double-base smokeless powder used. These two organics do not include nitrocellulose because it has no evidential value in the HPLC-UV trace of the smokeless powder sample. By matching retention times of these two compounds with that of the five standards occurring in smokeless powder, the compounds are tentatively identified as methyl centralite (MC) and nitroglycerin (NG). These two compounds were finally identified by using MS spectrum. This MS-MS method was developed to detect MC since MC is less commonly found in the environment than NG. In Chinese ammunition, MC is widely used as a stabilizer instead of EC. Sixteen samples were used to evaluate the reliability of the method. The mean (±SD) MC level in the eight samples is 520.1 ± 271.9 pg/µL and that in the blanks is 31.0 ± 20.8 pg/µL. The result (P = 0.0007) shows that there is a significant difference between the two serial data. Sampling hands over a 24 h period showed that GSR could be detected even after 8 h with a 75% decrease in the level of MC. The result of the washing test shows that it is still possible to apply the proposed method to detect GSRs on a shooter's hands even if their hands have been washed three times. Another test shows that if the shooters wear gloves while firing, MC on the gloves can be easily detected using the proposed method.
Human and Insect Mitochondrial DNA Analysis from Maggots
Authors: Wells JD , Introna F , Di Vella G , Campobasso CP , Hayes J , Sperling FAH
Published: August 2015

During the course of our forensic investigations, we have encountered situations where it would have been useful to have evidence, other than direct contact between the two, for concluding that a carrion-fly maggot developed on a particular human victim. If a maggot collected during a death investigation did not develop on the victim, then its age is not relevant to estimating the postmortem interval. In this study we demonstrate that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) sequence data can be obtained from the dissected gut of a maggot that had fed on human tissue. These data can be used to identify both the human corpse upon which the maggot had been feeding and the species of the maggot itself.
Osler-Weber-Rendu Syndrome—Pathological Manifestations and Autopsy Considerations
Authors: Byard RW , Schliebs J , Koszyca BA
Published: August 2015

An 18-year-old university student with Osler-Weber-Rendu disease collapsed in the bathroom. Attempted resuscitation was unsuccessful. Her past history included recurrent epistaxes, mucosal telangiectasias, intracranial arteriovenous malformations with previous hemorrhage, a single pulmonary arteriovenous malformation, recent onset of grand mal seizures, and depression. There was a positive paternal family history. At autopsy the pulmonary arteriovenous malformation was confirmed. In addition, within the brain there were widespread areas of gliosis with hemosiderin deposition and small vascular malformations. No other significant abnormalities were detected and toxicological screening revealed only moderately elevated levels of carbemazepine. Death was attributed to epilepsy associated with glial scarring from previous microhemorrhages. The detection of vascular malformations in the lung or brain at autopsy should prompt careful examination of all tissues for similar lesions. Given the possibility of Osler-Weber-Rendu disease in such cases, fibroblast cultures should be undertaken to enable molecular studies to proceed. The heritable nature of this disorder necessitates accuracy of diagnosis at autopsy; once the diagnosis is confirmed family screening should be recommended.
Review of: Dead Reckoning: The Art of Forensic Detection
Authors: Horvath F
Published: August 2015

Capable, seasoned investigators, whether they articulate it or not, apply “dead reckoning”—the practice of determining one's position (in this book, in a homicide investigation) by usefully combining knowledge, skill, and experience—in their search for a successful conclusion to each of the cases they work. In this volume, the author, one of the finest minds in the forensic investigation field, reveals the “art” of dead reckoning in the context of investigations in which he has been involved. He shows how logical method and scientific scrutiny are applied by those who have learned to trust their powers of observation.
Developing a Quantitative Extraction Technique for Determining the Organic Additives in Smokeless Handgun Powder
Authors: Reardon MR , MacCrehan WA
Published: August 2015

Compositional analysis of the organic additives in smokeless handgun powder can provide forensic information to associate known and questioned samples. A reliable method for the quantitative extraction of smokeless powder additives would strengthen these measurements. To achieve quantitative recovery, both supercritical fluid extraction (SFE) and ultrasonic solvent extraction (USE) were evaluated as candidate techniques. Following a detailed evaluation of the solvent choice, the recovery of spiked additive compounds, and the effect of the powder matrix, a reliable USE technique was developed. When quantitative USE recovery of the target analytes, nitroglycerin (NG), diphenylamine (DPA), and ethyl centralite (EC), is coupled with additive measurement by micellar capillary electrophoresis (CE), compositional information can be obtained in less than 1 h.
A Methodology Based on NMR Spectroscopy for the Forensic Analysis of Condoms
Authors: Lee GSH , Brinch KM , Kannangara K , Dawson M , Wilson MA
Published: August 2015

Both solution and solid state Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopic techniques have been used to determine differences in commercially available condoms. Whilst solid state NMR is useful for determining the polymer backbone, it is not useful for forensic analysis due to the commonality of the latex condom. However solution NMR spectra obtained following a simple extraction procedure using hexane, provides a fingerprint of the additives in the lubricants. Following the development of a flow chart, basing decisions on the presence of particular peaks present in the solution spectra, 33 of 38 condoms could be individualized. Samples were also analyzed after having the lubricant manually removed and soaking the condom in water for 3 to 24 h. These experiments were performed to simulate a case of the sample having been used and disposed of by flushing down the toilet, as may be experienced in a case of a sexual assault. The results indicated that the only significant water soluble component was polyethylene glycol. The overall results suggest that the method developed may be a quick and useful technique in characterizing condoms. The information obtained can be used to provide associative evidence between suspect and crime, and so be useful in sexual assault cases.
Machine Washing or Brushing of Clothing and Its Influence on Shooting Distance Estimation
Authors: Vinokurov A , Zeichner A , Glattstein B , Koffman A , Levin N , Rosengarten A
Published: August 2015

Experiments were conducted to assess the effect of machine washing or brushing of clothing items on Gunshot Residue (GSR) patterns (gunpowder residues, lead, and copper deposits) around bullet entrance holes. Results show that those treatments decrease considerably the amount and density of GSR. However, for close shooting distances not all of the GSR deposits are removed. Remaining patterns may be visualized by specific color reactions and used for shooting distance estimation.
Digital Enhancement of Sub-Quality Bitemark Photographs
Authors: Karazalus CP , Palmbach TT , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

Digital enhancement software was used to enhance bitemark photographs. This enhancement technique improved the resolution of the bitemark images. Lucis was the software program utilized in this study and case applications. First, this technique was applied on known bitemark images to evaluate the potential effectiveness of this digital enhancement method. Subsequently, Lucis was utilized on two separate unsolved cases involving enhancement of bitemark evidence. One case involved a severely beaten infant with a bitemark on the upper thigh. The second case involves a bitemark observed on the breast of a female sexual assault strangulation victim. In both cases, bitemark images were significantly improved after digital enhancement.