bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Background Correction in Forensic Photography I. Photography of Blood Under Conditions of Non-Uniform Illumination or Variable Substrate Color—Theoretical Aspects and Proof of Concept
Authors: Wagner JH , Miskelly GM
Published: August 2015

The combination of photographs taken at two or three wavelengths at and bracketing an absorbance peak indicative of a particular compound can lead to an image with enhanced visualization of the compound. This procedure works best for compounds with absorbance bands that are narrow compared with "average" chromophores. If necessary, the photographs can be taken with different exposure times to ensure that sufficient light from the substrate is detected at all three wavelengths. The combination of images is readily performed if the images are obtained with a digital camera and are then processed using an image processing program. Best results are obtained if linear images at the peak maximum, at a slightly shorter wavelength, and at a slightly longer wavelength are used. However, acceptable results can also be obtained under many conditions if non-linear photographs are used or if only two wavelengths (one of which is at the peak maximum) are combined. These latter conditions are more achievable by many "mid-range" digital cameras. Wavelength selection can either be by controlling the illumination (e.g., by using an alternate light source) or by use of narrow bandpass filters. The technique is illustrated using blood as the target analyte, using bands of light centered at 395, 415, and 435 nm. The extension of the method to detection of blood by fluorescence quenching is also described.
Mummified Trophy Heads from Peru: Diagnostic Features and Medicolegal Significance
Authors: Verano JW
Published: August 2015

Several forms of mummified human trophy heads were produced by prehistoric and historic native groups in South America. This paper describes the diagnostic features of trophy heads produced by the Nasca culture of ancient Peru. A growing interest in these mummified heads among collectors of Pre-Columbian art and antiquities has led to their illegal exportation from Peru, in violation of national and international antiquities laws. Requests from the Peruvian government to protect its cultural patrimony led the United States in 1997 to declare these heads as items subject to U.S. import restriction, along with six other categories of human remains. Despite such restrictions, Nasca trophy heads continue to reach private collectors outside of Peru and thus may be encountered by local, state, or federal law enforcement officials unfamiliar with their characteristic features and origin. The objective of this paper is to describe the features that allow Nasca trophy heads to be identified and distinguished from other archaeological and forensic specimens that may be submitted to a forensic anthropologist for identification.
Fatal Cyclobenzaprine Overdose with Postmortem Values
Authors: Spiller HA , Cutino L
Published: August 2015

There are only two published cases of overdose with postmortem blood cyclobenzaprine concentrations, both with confounding factors. We report two additional cases of fatal cyclobenzaprine overdose with postmortem values. Case 1: a 56-year-old female was found in full cardiopulmonary arrest after a verbal suicide threat to a friend. Postmortem blood concentrations were cyclobenzaprine 0.96 mg/L and diazepam 0.3 mg/L. Case 2: a 37-year-old male was found in full arrest by a family member after an intentional ingestion of cyclobenzaprine. Postmortem blood concentrations were cyclobenzaprine 0.8 mg/L and ethanol 0.174 gm/dL. The concentrations of diazepam and ethanol reported in these two patients were not found in quantities usually associated with a fatal outcome, suggesting that the cyclobenzaprine was the primary cause of the fatality. Additionally, the blood was drawn from a femoral site, so that postmortem redistribution is not a likely factor. Blood concentration of ? 0.8 mg/L cyclobenzaprine may be associated with a fatal outcome.
Strategy for Staffing Forensic Scientists
Authors: Dale WM , Becker WS
Published: August 2015

Our nation needs a strategy for staffing forensic scientists in public forensic laboratories. Low salaries and demands for training time impact scientist productivity and turnover in our public forensic laboratories. New automation technologies can be leveraged to increase the capacities of our laboratories, and while construction of new laboratories is essential, the most difficult challenge ahead is the shortage of intellectual capital needed to staff our laboratories.
Review of: A Review of Suspect Identities: A History of Fingerprinting and Criminal Identification
Authors: Bailey JA
Published: August 2015

Students, researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field of personal identification and forensics will find the text interesting and informative. Cole uses photographs and charts to illustrate and emphasize important concepts associated with the history of personal identification. Cases and issues are summarized that are relevant in the development of the identification system used in America. Many of the cornerstone decisions that were made in the field of identification resulted from the collective efforts of individuals and organizations whose initial objectives were to create an infallible link between records and people.
French Allele Frequencies and Haplotypes of Nine Y-specific STRs
Authors: Keyser-Tracqui C , Ricaut F-X , Blandin P , Ludes B
Published: August 2015

Blood samples or buccal swabs were collected from 100 Caucasian males living in Strasbourg, after obtaining their informed consent. After DNA extraction using the Cleanmix kit (Talent), all males were analyzed at nine STR loci. The six Y-STR loci DYS19, DYS389-II, DYS390, DYS391, DYS393 and, DYS385 were coamplified in a multiplex reaction using the Y-Plex6™ kit according to the manufacturers' recommendations (ReliaGene Technologies Inc.). The three others (DYS389-I, DYS392, and YCAII) were amplified by singleplex PCR. Primer sequences were those described by de Knijff et al. (1), except for the loci DYS389-I which was amplified using the primer sequence described by Schultes et al. (2). Amplification products were analyzed by capillary electrophoresis on an ABI Prism 3100 Genetic analyzer (Applied Biosystems). Fragment sizes were determined automatically using the GeneMapper software and typed by comparison with an allelic ladder (provided in the kit or obtained by the mixture of previously sequenced samples for the most common alleles). The allele nomenclature was the one recommended by the International Society of Forensic Genetics (3). Data have been contributed to the YHRD and can be searched at www.ystr.org/europe.
Homicide Attempt with a Japanese Samurai Sword
Authors: Raul J-S , Berthelon L , Geraut A , Tracqui A , Ludes B
Published: August 2015

The use of Japanese swords for homicidal attempts is rare. A Japanese samurai sword is a sharp and cutting object. When faced with the use of this weapon, one must distinguish between stabs and incised wounds. Incised wounds can rarely lead to death, but because of the size of the weapon, stabs usually cause much more serious injuries. Stabs also imply a penetrating movement, whereas incised wounds can be the consequence of protective circular blows. Therefore, it is important to distinguish clinically between these two kinds of wounds. We report a case where the perpetrator argued he had given a circular blow, unfortunately hitting the victim. The pieces of evidence are discussed.
Commentary on: Stephan CN. Facial approximation: globe projection guideline falsified by exophthalmometry literature. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(4):730–5.
Authors: EA Craig EA
Published: August 2015

In a recent article, Facial Approximation: Globe Projection Guideline Falsified by Exophthalmometry Literature, (1) Carl Stephan concludes that the globe projection guideline presently used by forensic sculptors is incorrect and should be replaced by measurements acquired from in vivo studies of the human eye. The author should be congratulated on his review of the exophthalmometry literature. However, the guideline he claims to have falsified is intended for the art-quality artificial eyes used by most forensic sculptors. These eyes do not have actual corneas. The iris is simply covered with a thin film of acrylic that forms the anterior surface of the prosthesis. Some facial approximation experts actually sculpt the eye from clay so that the iris itself forms the most anterior surface of the globe.
Physical Match: Insole and Shoe
Authors: Shor YS , Kennedy RB , Tsach T , Volkov N , Novoselsky Y , Vinokurov A
Published: August 2015

In this case report, the authors show an interesting case of a physical match between an insole and a suspect shoe that was connected to the crime scene by a blood drop. Several pairs of shoes were seized and inspected. On the insoles of the main suspect's shoes, two different types of prints were seen, one was clear and the other image was faint. A physical match examination was conducted and the authors could place the right insole inside the right shoe. The insole was apparently glued to the shoe by the sweat, heat and dirt inside the shoe, and not by the manufacturer. In this case, the critical questions were how conclusive can the complexity of the random contours be, and whether the physical match between the two objects could pass the “Daubert challenge.”
A Fatal Drug Interaction Between Oxycodone and Clonazepam
Authors: Burrows DL , Hagardorn AN , Harlan GC , Ferslew KE
Published: August 2015

A case is presented of a fatal drug interaction caused by ingestion of oxycodone (Oxycontin®) and clonazepam (Klonapin®). Oxycodone is an opium alkaloid used in long-term pain management therapy. Clonazepam is a benzodiazepine used for the treatment of seizures and panic disorders. The Drug Abuse Warning Network (DAWN) has reported an increase of 108% in the last two years of emergency department episodes related to Oxycontin®. Six billion prescriptions were written for Oxycontin® in the year 2000, an 18-fold increase from four years previous (1). Oxycontin has recently gained enormous notoriety at the local and national levels; however, there are very few previously documented cases of lethal drug interactions between oxycodone and clonazepam. Synergistic effects between these two drugs are postulated to arise from different agonistic mechanisms producing similar physiological changes. It is also theorized that clonazepam may inhibit the metabolism of oxycodone. A 38-year-old white female was found dead in Jefferson County, Tennessee in March of 2001. The deceased had physical evidence of previous drug abuse and positive serological findings of hepatitis B and C. Prescription pill bottles filled under the name of the deceased, as well as another name, were found with the body. Serum, urine and gastric contents from the deceased were screened for numerous drugs and metabolites using a combination of thin layer chromatography and immunoassay techniques (EMIT and FPIA). Analysis of biological specimens from the deceased revealed the presence of: benzodiazepines, opiates (oxycodone), and trazodone metabolites in the serum; cannabinoids, benzodiazepines, opiates (oxycodone), trazodone, trazodone metabolites, nicotine, and nicotine metabolite in the urine; and benzodiazepines, opiates (oxycodone), nicotine, and nicotine metabolite in the gastric contents. Quantitative analyses for clonazepam was performed by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and revealed a plasma concentration of 1.41 µg/mL. Plasma oxycodone and urine 11-nor-carboxy-delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol concentrations were determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry and revealed concentrations of 0.60 µg/mL and 27.9 ng/mL, respectively. The deceased had pathologies consistent with severe central nervous system (CNS) and respiratory depression produced by high concentrations of clonazepam and oxycodone including collapsed lungs, aspirated mucus, and heart failure. The pathologies were sufficient to cause death, which was officially attributed to a drug overdose; however, the manner of death was unknown.
Author's Response
Authors: Wickenheiser R
Published: August 2015

I read with great interest the commentary by Sutherland B, Cordiner S, Bright J, and Walsh SJ on my recent trace DNA review article. Within that review article, I discussed the potential of fingerprints to bear sufficient DNA to produce DNA profiles.
Model Standards for Forensic Science Graduate Program Evaluation
Authors: Sensabaugh GF , Gaensslen RE
Published: August 2015

We recently had occasion to serve on a national Technical Working Group on forensic science education and training. During that same time, we acted as invited consultants to provide an external evaluation of one of the forensic science graduate programs. These experiences, along with the recent discussions in the American Academy of Forensic Sciences and the Council on Forensic Science Education about possible educational program accreditation, prompted us to formulate the compilation of standards presented here.
Allele Frequencies of Mitochondrial DNA STR Locus in Two Chinese Ethnic Groups
Authors: Tang H , Liu YC , Yan JW , Gao JW , Hou YP
Published: August 2015

Blood specimens were collected from two Chinese ethnic groups, including 100 unrelated individuals from Han ethnic group in Beijing and 100 unrelated individuals from Uygur ethnic group in Kashi of Xinjiang province. Ethnic origin was determined by appearance and self declaration. DNA was extracted from blood specimens using Chelex 100 method (1).
Genetic Data Analysis of HLA-DQA1 in Four Colombian Populations: Pereira, Armenia, Manizales, and Choco
Authors: Builes JJ , Bravo MLJ , Moreno MA , Gaviria AM , Espinal C
Published: August 2015

Blood samples from unrelated individuals of four Colombian populations (Pereira, Armenia, Manizales, and Choco) were collected. DNA was extracted from 200 μL of peripherical blood obtained from each individual by the salting-out procedure (1).
Forensic Applications of Chemical Imaging: Latent Fingerprint Detection Using Visible Absorption and Luminescence
Authors: Exline DL , Wallace C , Roux C , Lennard C , Nelson MP , Treado PJ
Published: August 2015

Chemical imaging technology is a rapid examination technique that combines molecular spectroscopy and digital imaging, providing information on morphology, composition, structure, and concentration of a material. Among many other applications, chemical imaging offers an array of novel analytical testing methods, which limits sample preparation and provides high-quality imaging data essential in the detection of latent fingerprints. Luminescence chemical imaging and visible absorbance chemical imaging have been successfully applied to ninhydrin, DFO, cyanoacrylate, and luminescent dye-treated latent fingerprints, demonstrating the potential of this technology to aid forensic investigations. In addition, visible absorption chemical imaging has been applied successfully to visualize untreated latent fingerprints
Commentary on: Platt MS, et al. Death associated with liposuction: case reports and review of the literature. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(1):205-207.
Authors: Coldiron B
Published: August 2015

I am confused by the article “Deaths associated with liposuction: Case reports and review of the literature” by Platt et al. J Forensic Science 2002;47(1)205-207.
Review of: Forensic Examination of Glass and Paint
Authors: Houck MM
Published: August 2015

This book expands the Taylor and Francis series in forensic science with the topics of glass and paint and their examination in the forensic laboratory. Overall, the book is a solid addition to a forensic scientist's library, but only as an addition (more on that later). The chapters are all written by experts in their respective fields hailing from Europe (8), the U.S. (5), Canada (3), and Australia (1). The book has a European feel, which may give some U.S. readers pause to wonder; some "popular" methods in Europe are not used in the U.S., and vice versa. In reading the entire book, it becomes noticeable that the individual authors did not confer with each other and/or that the book was not edited with an even hand. Some chapters contradict each other and many repeat introductory material. Nevertheless, Forensic Examination of Glass and Paint remains a remarkable reference in a discipline with too few books.
Review of: Dead Reckoning: The New Science of Catching Killers
Authors: Payne D
Published: August 2015

This book is primarily a descriptive work of the interactions and experiences of the primary author while he was working as a chief medical examiner in New York. The author describes a few of the major cases in the past several years and highlights several mistakes made by on-scene-investigators.
Six Y-Chromosome STR Frequencies in a Population from Argentina
Authors: Garofalo MG , Gangitano DA , Juvenal GJ , Budowle B , Lorente JA , Padula RA
Published: August 2015

DNA samples from 97 unrelated individuals were extracted by Chelex procedure (1) and then quantified using QuantiBlot® Human DNA Quantitation Kit according to the manufacturer's instructions (2). DNA samples (1 ng) were amplified and typed by Y-Plex™ 6 System (3). The electrophoresis was carried out on the ABI PRISM® 377 DNA Sequencer using GeneScan® y Genotyper® and Y-Typer Genotyping Software. Data were analyzed by B. Budowle according to Tajima (4) and Stoneking et al. (5). The complete data are available to any interested researcher by accessing http://www.cnea.gov.ar/cac/radiobiologia/yplex.xls.
The Effects of Latent Print Processing on Questioned Documents Produced by Office Machine Systems Utilizing Inkjet Technology and Toner
Authors: LaPorte GM , Ramotowski RS
Published: August 2015

Counterfeiting of currency and identity documents, death threats, illegitimate business transactions, and terrorist-related activities are some examples of the types of crimes that often involve documents produced from printers and copiers. Although standard protocol typically requires a questioned document (QD) examination prior to latent print (LP) processing, occasionally, items of evidence may be submitted for a QD examination following the application of a series chemicals utilized in the development of latent fingerprints. In such cases, the forensic examiner must take into account any previous treatments prior to initiating an examination on documents produced with a printer or copier. This study was devised to examine the effects of a latent print development technique [ninhydrin, physical developer, and a bleach enhancer] on the physical and chemical examination of documents produced from copiers and printers.
Population Data for Seven Y-Chromosome STR Loci from Three Different Population Groups Residing in Connecticut
Authors: Coyle HM , Budowle B , Bourke MT , Carita E , Hintz JL , Ladd C , Roy C , Yang NCS , Palmbach T , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

The samples for database studies were obtained from unrelated males from the indicated population groups residing in the state of Connecticut and were anonymized before analysis. The DNA from blood samples was extracted using the QIAamp® DNA blood MiniKit (Qiagen, Valencia, CA) following the recommended procedures. The quantity of human DNA was determined by slot blot hybridization using the QuantiBlot kit (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) and following the manufacturer's recommended protocols. The Y-PLEX™6 system (ReliaGene Technologies, Inc., New Orleans, LA) was used for the amplification of the Y short tandem repeat (STR) loci. PCR amplification and the analysis of amplified product were performed as recommended by the manufacturer and as described in Sinha et al. (1).
Development and Validation of the Y-PLEX™5, a Y-Chromosome STR Genotyping System, for Forensic Casework
Authors: Sinha SK , Nasir H , Gross AM , Budowle B , Shewale JG
Published: August 2015

A genotyping system, Y-PLEX™5, has been developed for use in human identification. The Y-PLEX™5 enables simultaneous amplification of five polymorphic short tandem repeat (STR) loci residing on the Y-chromosome, which are DYS389I, DYS389II, DYS439, DYS438, and DYS392. As little as 0.1 ng of template DNA can be used for analysis. The specificity of the amplification reaction enabled analysis of male DNA in a male: female DNA mixture at a ratio of 1:600. Mean stutter values ranged from 3.60-10.97%. Among the different primates investigated, the DNA from orangutan exhibited amplification at DYS438 locus and from gorilla at DYS439 and DYS438 loci. The DNA from cat, dog, and horse did not yield any amplified product. Studies on development of the genotyping system, generation and description of the allelic ladder, and validation of the multiplex PCR as per the FBI Director's Quality Assurance Standards were carried out. Y-STR allele and haplotype frequencies in two populations were generated. The data indicate that the Y-PLEX™5 genotyping system is sensitive and reliable, and can be used in human forensic and male lineage identification cases.
Analysis of Human Fecal Material for Autosomal and Y Chromosome STRs
Authors: Roy R
Published: August 2015

Human stool samples from eight volunteers were stored under various conditions and extracted by three different procedures. Fecal material and tissue paper soiled with fecal material obtained from a crime scene were also extracted. Extracted DNA was amplified using the AmpF€STR® Profiler Plus™, AmpFℓSTR® COfiler™, and the AmpF€STR® Identifiler™ PCR amplification kits for the detection of the autosomal STR allelic patterns. DNA extracted from the male volunteers and from the soiled tissue paper evidence sample was also amplified using the Y-PLEX™6 and Y-PLEX™5 amplification kits. Analysis of the amplified products was carried out by capillary electrophoresis on the ABI PRISM® 310 Genetic Analyzer. Autosomal and Y-STR profiles obtained from the fecal material were concordant with the results from the donors' buccal swabs.
Evidence of Hexavalent Chromium Ingestion
Authors: Kinoshita H , Ameno K , Sumi Y , Kumihashi M , Ijiri I , Ameno S , Kubota A , Hishida S
Published: August 2015

We describe the application of histochemical demonstration of chromium in a case of fatal ingestion of potassium dichromate in a suicide attempt. Using 2-(8-quinolylazo)-4,5-di-p-tolylimidazole (QTI), we could demonstrate chromium in the erythrocyte of the victim, in situ. This finding provides a means of proving the hexavalent chromium ingestion.
Variation of the Hypervariable Region-1 of Mitochondrial DNA in Central-Eastern Italy
Authors: Verginelli F , Donati F , Coia V , Boschi I , Palmirotta R , Battista P , Costantini RM , Destro-Bisol G
Published: August 2015

DNA samples were extracted from fresh blood (5 mL in EDTA tube) by alkali bursting of blood cells followed by protein digestion with proteinase K. After a phenol-chloroform extraction, DNA was precipitated with absolute ethanol and dried at room temperature. The DNA pellet was diluted in 100 μL of TBE buffer (Tris HCl, 10mM, pH 7.5; EDTA 1mM). PCR amplification was carried out by using a Perkin Elmer 2400 thermal cycler in 25 μL reaction volume. The product of amplification was purified with a High Pure Product Purification Kit (Roche Diagnostics GmbH, Mannheim, Germany). The sequencing reactions were performed separately on each strand with the primers L15990 and H16401. The hypervariable region-1 (HVR1) sequence analysis was carried out using the A.L.F. semi-automated sequencer (Pharmacia Biotech, Uppsala, Sweden). We observed a total of 44 different haplotypes out of 50 individuals examined, 41 of which were singletons. Only 8 haplotypes (no. 09, 13, 29, 39, 40, 42, 44, and 50) have been already observed among the Italian populations database available at www.hvrbase.de. The parameters of intrapopulation diversity (haplotype diversity 0.990 ± 0.008; mean number of pairwise differences 4.979 ± 2.463) fall into the range of values reported for Italian populations (1). The values of Tajima (1,944, p = 0.015) and Fu's tests (-25.552, p = 0.00) are those expected for populations who have had a large and sudden expansion (2). Applying an exact test for population comparisons implemented in the Arlequin software (3), we obtained statistically significant p-values for the comparison between our sample and those from Tuscany (0.004) Sardinia (0.039). Complete data are available at the e-mail address of the corresponding author upon request.
HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Allele Frequencies in Peru
Authors: Pérez L , Hau J , Garcia O
Published: August 2015

Whole blood samples were obtained after informed consent from 100 unrelated Peruvian donors. Genomic DNA was extracted by a standard phenol/chloroform extraction procedure. The extracted DNA was quantitated by slot-blot hybridization using the QuantiblotR Human DNA Quantitation kit (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). The samples were typed for HLA-DQA1/PM loci by using the Amplitype PM and DQA1 kit following manufacturer's instructions (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Exact tests were performed by using the computer program GDA for checking the Hardy-Weinberg expectations (1). Data were analyzed by Power-Stats (2). The complete data set is available to any interested researcher upon request from Oscar Garcia, Ph.D., Area de Laboratorio Ertzaintza, Av. Montevideo 3, 48002-Bilbao, Spain.
HLA-DQA1 and Polymarker Locus Allele Frequencies in the Northeast Region of Colombia (Departments of Santander, Norte de Santander, Boyaca and Casanare)
Authors: Vargas CI , Castillo A , Lemus M , Gil AM , Pico AL , Garcia O
Published: August 2015

Whole blood samples were obtained in the genetics laboratory of the UIS (Universidad Industrial of Santander) in collaboration with ICBF (Instituto Colombiano de Bienestar Familiar) from unrelated Colombian donors. Genomic DNA was extracted using the salting out procedure. The samples were typed for HLA-DQA1/PM loci by using the Amplitype PM and DQA1 kit following manufacturer's instructions (PE-Biosystems, Foster City, CA). Statistical analysis was performed as previously reported (1). The complete data set is available to any interested researcher upon request from Oscar Garcia, Area de Laboratorio Ertzaintza, Av. Montevideo 3, 48002-Bilbao, Spain.
Review of: An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis, Second Edition
Authors: Foran D
Published: August 2015

An Introduction to Forensic DNA Analysis by Rudin and Inman is an update of the 1997 first edition of the same name by Inman and Rudin. Many methods used by forensic scientists endure for decades without undergoing substantial change, so it is rare indeed when a field is transformed so quickly that a thorough text update is needed after only a few years. Books on forensic molecular biology could be updated quarterly.
Codeine and Morphine Blood Concentrations Increase During Blood Loss
Authors: Kugelberg FC , Holmgren P , Druid H
Published: August 2015

During extensive blood loss, a plasma volume refill will take place by transfer of extravascular fluid into the circulation. Drugs present in this fluid may follow and cause a rise or a drop in blood drug concentration, depending on their levels and accessibility in the restoration fluid. This study explored the possible changes of codeine, and its metabolite morphine, in whole blood during a standardized exsanguination in the rat. Three doses containing 5 mg codeine were given orally. In eight rats, blood loss was accomplished by slowly withdrawing 0.8 mL blood at 10 min intervals during 70 min. In control rats, blood was withdrawn only at 0 and 70 min. At 70 min, the final/initial codeine and morphine concentration ratios were 0.70 ± 0.38 and 0.88 ± 0.47, respectively, in controls, but increased to 1.28 ± 0.44 (p=0.014) and 1.41 ± 0.34 (p=0.021), respectively, in exsanguinated rats. It is concluded that blood loss can affect blood drug concentrations.
Zaleplon and Driving Impairment
Authors: Stillwell ME
Published: August 2015

Zaleplon, a sedative-hypnotic, was identified in the blood of a subject arrested for impaired driving. Symptoms reported were those of central nervous system (CNS) depression. The zaleplon concentration was determined to be 0.13 µg/mL. Symptoms included slow movements and reactions, poor coordination, and lack of balance. Although no quantitative relationship between blood concentrations and degree of driving impairment is currently possible, it is reasonable to conclude that because of its specific activity as a sedative-hypnotic, blood concentrations consistent with doses exceeding therapeutic concentrations of zaleplon have the potential to cause impairment of psychomotor function, and would impair a person's level of consciousness and driving ability.
The Analysis of an Intracerebral Hematoma for Drugs of Abuse
Authors: McIntyre IM , Hamm CE , Sherrard JL , Gary RD , Riley AC , Lucas JR
Published: August 2015

Toxicological investigations were performed on an intracerebral hematoma, antemortem blood, and postmortem blood of an individual who was found unresponsive in his home. The hematoma was found to have ethanol at a concentration of 0.05% (w/v), and benzoylecgonine (a cocaine metabolite) was also confirmed at a concentration of 0.43 mg/L by specific analysis using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). These results enabled the pathologist to record the cause of death as intracerebral hemorrhage due to acute cocaine intoxication.
Photodegradation and Laser Desorption Mass Spectrometry for the Characterization of Dyes Used in Red Pen Inks
Authors: Dunn JD , Siegel JA , Allison J
Published: August 2015

Photodegradation and laser desorption mass spectrometry (LDMS) is a powerful combination of methods capable of characterizing dyes found in pen inks. Rhodamine dyes in pens that contain red ink were analyzed directly from paper (no extraction step is necessary). Inks exposed to incandescent light form photodegradation products (compounds with lower molecular weights than that of the intact dye) and in some instances, photoproducts (compounds with higher molecular weights than that of the intact dye). The degradation products and photoproducts can be detected with LDMS, and the results can be used for dye identification. Advantages include: (1) the instrumental analysis takes less than a minute; (2) sample preparation is minimal; (3) LDMS is a minimally destructive technique; (4) incandescent light sources are inexpensive, safe to use, and readily available; and (5) isomeric dyes can be distinguished.
Contamination of Brake Fluid by Power Steering Fluid
Authors: Stauffer E , Lentini JJ
Published: August 2015

Analysis of a contaminated brake fluid revealed the contaminant to be power steering fluid. The sample received at the laboratory presented two immiscible phases, which were both organic. Both fluids were analyzed by GC-MS and compared with a library of known automotive fluids. The bottom layer (brake fluid) consisted of glycols while the top layer (power steering fluid) consisted of aliphatics ranging from C16 to C25+. An interesting phenomenon of diffusion of some of the glycols from the brake fluid phase into the power steering fluid phase was observed and needs to be taken into consideration in the interpretation of the results.
Suicide by Fire in a Car Trunk: A Case with Potential Pitfalls
Authors: Adair TW , DeLong L , Dobersen MJ , Sanamo S , Young R , Oliver B , Rotter T
Published: August 2015

We present an unusual case in which an adult female committed suicide by fire while enclosed in the trunk of her vehicle. A finding of suicide was reached only because several key investigative facts were uncovered. Without these discoveries the case may still remain open as a suspicious death. Fire is rarely used as a mechanism of suicide in Western culture, and, as such, similar cases should be reported to advance our recognition of this phenomenon.
Haplotype Frequencies of Three Y-Chromosome STR Loci in Tibetan Ethnic Group of Chinese Population
Authors: Ying BW , Tang JP , Gao YZ , Chen YL , Li YB , Wu J , Zhang J , Shi MS , Zhu QF , Zhou XK , Hou YP
Published: August 2015

A total of 101 blood samples were collected from unrelated males of Tibetan ethnic group in Lasa of China. DNA was extracted using Chelex method (1). The allelic variation at the three Y-STR loci named as DYS434, DYS443, and DYS456, were analyzed by PCR amplication with multiplex system. Multiplex PCR amplifications were performed in a 37.5 μL containing 2–4 ng human genome DNA, 7.5 μL dNTP (1 mmol/mL), 3μ, Taq polymerase, 3.75 μL 10 × buffer (Mg2+ 1.5 mmol/l), 3.75 μL BSA (1.6 μg/mL), 0.3 μL each primers (50 nmol/mL).
Identification of DYS385 Allele Variants by Using Shorter Amplicons and Northern Thai Haplotype Data
Authors: Bhoopat T , Hohoff C , Steger HF
Published: August 2015

Primers currently used for amplification of locus DYS385 on the Y chromosome give quite long amplicons that are difficult to resolve on native polyacrylamide gels. We therefore designed new primers that give much shorter products for easy separation. With this system, two allele variants that were characterized by sequencing as 14.1 (GAAA -* GAAAA) and 14.2 (GA insertion), were identified in two unrelated Northern Thai men due to their decreased mobility. Interestingly, initial capillary electrophoresis mistyped the 14.1 variant amplified with the traditional primers as allele 14. Forty different haplotypes were found in 147 Northern Thais with a haplotype diversity of 0.9430. Haplotype 13-18 (frequency 0.136) is the most frequent one; for comparison; haplotype 14-18 (frequency 0.074) was found to be the most common in a population from Bangkok (n = 95) in an earlier study. This striking difference within Thailand's population probably results from genetic differences in the founding populations.
Quantification of Forensic DNA from Various Regions of Human Teeth
Authors: Gaytmenn R , Sweet D
Published: August 2015

When the use of traditional forensic identification methods such as fingerprints or dental radiographs is difficult or impossible, identification by DNA analysis has proven valuable. In situations such as explosions or airplane crashes, identification is even more difficult because human remains are often fragmented and may be commingled. Teeth are a useful source of DNA and can often survive extreme environmental conditions. However, teeth may be fragmented into several identifiable regions. Therefore it is important to determine if DNA is present in forensically significant yields in all regions of the tooth. The main objectives of this study were to determine which region(s) of the tooth contains quantifiable DNA, if all regions contain similar yields of DNA and whether there is enough DNA in all regions to justify DNA extraction from a found tooth fragment. Results demonstrate that there is sufficient quantity of DNA in the crown body, root body, and root tip to support DNA extraction. Additionally, the root body is the region with the highest yield of DNA. This information will aid forensic DNA analysts in producing a useful DNA profile in a timely and cost-effective manner.
Suicides by Fall from Height in Geneva, Switzerland, from 1991 to 2000
Authors: Perret GP , Flomenbaum M , La Harpe R
Published: August 2015

Suicides due to fall from height in Geneva from 1991 to 2000 were reviewed. Scene investigations, autopsy findings, psychiatric histories, and toxicology results were examined. There were 197 of these suicides, an incidence of five cases per 100 000 inhabitants per year or one fourth of all suicides in Geneva per year. Autopsies were performed on 33%, the rest had external examinations. Of the victims, 56% were female and 44% were male. The age distribution peaked at 20-29 years in men and 60-69 years in women. Most of the victims jumped from their home, the range of 2 to 7 stories being the most frequent height. Major injury sites, in decreasing frequency, were the thorax, abdomen, skull, vertebrae, pelvis and limbs. Psychiatric illness was reported in 38% of the cases. Toxicological analysis was performed in 25% of the cases and showed that the main drugs present were benzodiazepines, cannabis and antidepressant.
Analytical Aspects of Volatile Substance Abuse (VSA)
Authors: Gaulier J-M , Tonnay V , Faict T , Sayer H , Marquet P , Lachatre G
Published: August 2015

Through a case report, the authors illustrate the volatile substance abuse (VSA) toxicological investigation difficulties mainly due to evaporation of the compounds from postmortem samples and to the lack of reference data for interpretation. A 17-year-old man, student in a chemistry institute, was found dead with a plastic bag placed over his head. Several chemical substances were found in his belongings. Autopsy findings included serious pulmonary lesions and hemorrhagic digestive ulcerations. A large screening of drugs and toxic compounds and selective analyses for several classes of drugs of abuse were carried out in the autopsy samples. In particular, a headspace (HS), -gas chromatography/-mass spectrometry (GC/MS) technique was used to screen for volatile substances and metabolites in the biological samples and for residues of volatile substances on the surface of the plastic bag and in the chemicals found on the scene. The main analytical finding was the presence of alkanes (heptane, methyl-2-pentane, methyl-3-hexane, methylcyclohexane) in the gastric content. The literature data, VSA practices, long time-delay between death and autopsy, preservation conditions of the biological samples before analysis, and in-lab experiments on evaporation of volatile substances were considered to interpret this result. The present fatality was attributed to VSA with a gasoline-based stain remover like “eau ecarlate™,” associated with a hypoxic recreation practice using a plastic bag.
A Novel Multiplex PCR System Consisting of Y-STRs DYS441, DYS442, DYS443, DYS444, and DYS445
Authors: Iida R , Sawazaki K , Ikeda H , Miyamoto T , Tsubota E , Takatsuka H , Masuyama M , Matsuki T , Yasuda T , Kishi K
Published: August 2015

We have developed a new sensitive multiplex PCR system consisting of five male-specific and polymorphic tetranucleotide STRs-DYS441 (GDB: 10013873), DYS442 (GDB: 10030304), DYS443 (GDB: 10807127), DYS444 (GDB: 10807128), and DYS445 (GDB: 10807129) on the Y chromosome. Fifty pg DNA per 10 µL reaction volume was required for the correct typing of five STRs. Using this system, the five Y-STRs were correctly typed from blood and semen stains that had been stored for several years at room temperature.
Distribution of D5S818, D7S820, D8S1179, D13S317, D18S51 Alleles in a Central Italian Population Sample
Authors: Vecchiotti C , Spaltro G , Boninfante B , Di Nunno N
Published: August 2015

Blood samples were obtained from selected and unrelated individuals. DNA was extracted with the standard Chelex® 100 (BioRad, Hercules, CA) extraction procedure (1); DNA samples were amplified in a DNA Gene Amp 9700 (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA) using 10 ng of template DNA. The amplified products were detected using the Abi Prism 310 Genetic Analyzer (Applied Biosystems, Foster City, CA).
Distributions of Allelic Frequencies and Haplotypes of Two Novel Y-Chromosome STR in a Chinese Population
Authors: Zhu QF , Tang JP , Gao YZ , Ying BW , Hou YP , Li YB , Wu J , Ji Q
Published: August 2015

Whole blood obtained by venipuncture from 107 unrelated males of the Han ethnic group in Chengdu, China. DNA was extracted using the Chelex method (1). The reaction volume of PCR was 37.5 μL, containing 2–4 ng human genome DNA, 200 μM each dNTP (Pharmacia, Sweden), 1.5μ Taq polymerase (Promega, Madison, WI), 3.75 μL 10 × buffer, Mg2+ 1.5 mM, 1.6 μg/mL BSA, 0.3 μM each primer. Amplification reactions were carried out in a Perkin Elmer 9600 (Foster City, CA) with pre-denaturing for 2 min at 94°C, followed by 35 cycles of denaturing for 40 s at 94°C, annealing for 40 s at 58°C and extension for 25 s at 72°C. The PCR products were analyzed by horizontal non-denaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with discontinuous buffer system and visualized by silver staining (2). Data of population genetics and forensic science were analyzed according to Hou's method (3).
Commentary on: Platt MS, Kohler LJ, Ruiz R, Cohle SD, Ravichandran P. Deaths Associated with Liposuction: Case Reports and Review of the Literature. J Forensic Sci 2002;47(1): 205-207
Authors: Coleman WP , Lawrence N
Published: August 2015

The recent case report “Deaths Associated with Liposuction: Case Reports and Review of the Literature” (1) exhibits a fundamental error in understanding modern liposuction and its complications. The three cases reported were all performed under general anesthesia yet all were incorrectly classified as “tumescent liposuction.”
Fingerprint Pattern Restoration by Digital Image Processing Techniques
Authors: Wen C , Yu C
Published: August 2015

Fingerprint evidence plays an important role in solving criminal problems. However, defective (lacking information needed for completeness) or contaminated (undesirable information included) fingerprint patterns make identifying and recognizing processes difficult. Unfortunately, this is the usual case. In the recognizing process (enhancement of patterns, or elimination of "false alarms" so that a fingerprint pattern can be searched in the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS)), chemical and physical techniques have been proposed to improve pattern legibility. In the identifying process, a fingerprint examiner can enhance contaminated (but not defective) fingerprint patterns under guidelines provided by the Scientific Working Group on Friction Ridge Analysis, Study and Technology (SWGFAST), the Scientific Working Group on Imaging Technology (SWGIT), and an AFIS working group within the National Institute of Justice. Recently, the image processing techniques have been successfully applied in forensic science. For example, we have applied image enhancement methods to improve the legibility of digital images such as fingerprints and vehicle plate numbers.

In this paper, we propose a novel digital image restoration technique based on the AM (amplitude modulation)-FM (frequency modulation) reaction-diffusion method to restore defective or contaminated fingerprint patterns. This method shows its potential application to fingerprint pattern enhancement in the recognizing process (but not for the identifying process). Synthetic and real images are used to show the capability of the proposed method. The results of enhancing fingerprint patterns by the manual process and our method are evaluated and compared.
Deciphering Indented Impressions on Plastic
Authors: Brown S , Klein A , Chaikovsky A
Published: August 2015

The questioned document laboratory is often called upon to decipher writing that has been erased, obliterated, or that has faded. In cases like these, the original writing is no longer legible to the naked eye, but may be enhanced using various light sources. Certain remnants of the ink's components absorb into the substrate's fibers and can be visualized, usually as luminescence or absorbance.

A case is described here that involved the theft of a credit card. An empty plastic credit card holder was found in the possession of a suspect, and was submitted for examination. Indented impressions could be discerned on its clear plastic window and presumably originated from the credit card that had been held in the envelope. These indented impressions were deciphered in the hope that they would reveal enough details from the credit card to establish a connection between the plastic envelope and the stolen credit card.

With methods generally utilized in the toolmarks and materials laboratory and the photography laboratory of the Israel Police, most of the indented impressions on the plastic were deciphered and a connection between the plastic envelope and the stolen credit card was demonstrated.
An Esoteric Technique Useful in the Identification of Unidentified Remains from the Examination of Faded, Illegible Hospital Identification Wristbands
Authors: . Anthony AT , Gayton BC , McVicker BC
Published: August 2015

A technique routinely used in the examination of questioned documents has been found to be of assistance when employed in the examination of faded and/or partially legible hospital identification wristbands found with unidentified remains (UIDs). A non-destructive test used predominately by forensic document examiners in the analysis of writing inks, handwritten alterations, and obliterations has proven useful throughout the years when confronted with this unusual type of documentary evidence. This discussion paper was prompted by the Tri-State Crematory disaster, Walker County, Georgia, from a request by investigators as to whether or not any information could be obtained from the examination of faded hospital identification wristbands where no information was readily discernable. Subsequent analysis by non-destructive infrared inspection, a standard technique used in the examination of questioned documents, proved useful in assisting with the identification of unidentified skeletal remains.
Vacuum Collection of Gunpowder Residues from Clothing Worn by Shooting Suspects, and Their Analysis by GC/TEA, IMS, and GC/MS
Authors: Zeichner A , Eldar B , Glattstein B , Koffman A , Tamiri T , Muller D
Published: August 2015

Experiments were conducted to collect gunpowder (propellant) residues from shooters' clothing by vacuum and to analyze them by gas chromatography/thermal energy analyzer (GC/TEA), ion mobility spectrometry (IMS), and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). The residues were collected on fiberglass and Teflon filters using the portable vacuum sampler, all supplied with the IMS instrument. Several solvents were examined for the extraction of the propellant components from the filters. The extracts were centrifuged and/or filtered, concentrated by evaporation, and analyzed without any additional clean-up procedure. Based on the results of the study, an operational method for analysis of gunpowder residues was introduced into casework without changing the present operational technique for gunshot (primer) residue (GSR) analysis on clothing implemented by the Israel Police. In the modified method, the clothing is first sampled by double-side adhesive-coated aluminum stubs (the tape-lift method) for GSR analysis (the existing method), followed by vacuum collection for propellant residue examination. The issue of interpretation of the analytical results is discussed.
In Memoriam: James G. Zimmerly, M.D., J.D.
Authors: Wecht CH
Published: August 2015

James Zimmerly attained his M.D. in 1966 from the University of Maryland School of Medicine, his J.D. in 1969 from the University of Maryland School of Law, and his M.P.H. in 1969 from John Hopkins University. He also received an honorary LL.M. from his alma mater, Gannon University, in 2000. For almost 20 years, Dr. Zimmerly, an emergency room physician, had split his evening and weekend time between the Washington County Hospital Trauma Center in Hagerstown and Dorcester General Hospital in Cambridge, Maryland.
ENFSI Proficiency Test Program on Identification of GSR by SEM/EDX
Authors: Niewoehner L , Wenz HW , Andrasko J , Beijer R , Gunaratnam L
Published: August 2015

Within the framework of the ENFSI Expert Working Group “Firearms,” a proficiency test on the detection and identification of GSR by SEM/EDX was organized and performed. The test material was designed by the Bundeskriminalamt and manufactured to order by an external company for SEM accessories. The participating laboratories were requested to determine the total number of PbSbBa-containing particles on the test samples following their own laboratory specific methods of automated GSR particle search and detection by SEM/EDX. Two similar samples with synthetic GSR particles were dispatched to all participants in order to gain additional information on systematic errors within the obtained results (split-level study), whereas one sample was supplied only with PbSbBa particles, and the second one was additionally contaminated with some environmental particles. This report summarizes the results of the study as well as a statistical evaluation and comparison with previous studies.