bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alleged Tampering with Mail of Dr. Yelena Bonner
Authors: Grantham SM
Published: August 2015

In July 1985, the U.S. Congress requested that the FBI Laboratory examine five postcards written by Dr. Yelena Bonner, wife of Dr. Andrei Sakharov, noted Soviet dissident and Nobel Peace Prize laureate. Relatives residing near Boston, Massachusetts, claimed that Soviet authorities were tampering with the mail in an effort to deceive those concerned about the fates of the Sakharovs, who were living in exile in Gorki, U.S.S.R. Examination under oblique, infrared, and ultraviolet illumination revealed several alterations to one postcard, which, when considered with other facts, indicated that the mail had been tampered with to conceal the involuntary hospitalization of Dr. Sakharov, who was being force-fed, to end one of his periodic hunger strikes. The questioned postcard became the object of considerable interest and was the subject of congressional testimony by the author on 18 March 1986.
A Review of The Study of Latent Fingerprints—A Science
Authors: Black M
Published: August 2015

The contents of this book were not in agreement with what the author stated in the preface, “This book deals directly with latent (finger) print identification.” It is overflowing with experiences the author has had in the Latent Print Section of the Los Angeles Police Department. It was difficult to identify the audience to which the material was addressed. The author suggests instructors will be using it, presumably as a textbook; however, the lack of illustrations of certain topics (incipient ridges, abnormal ridge structure, fingerprint reversals, and so forth) could baffle someone unfamiliar with these areas of fingerprint science. When deciding not to include additional illustrations, the author should have taken into consideration that besides instructors, others may have an occasion to read the text.
A Review of The Automobile Theft Investigator
Authors: Jack Cadman W
Published: August 2015

The author has directed this book, “… to those just starting out in the field of automobile theft investigation and/or those who are contemplating entering this field.” He has made an attempt to cover the areas of major concern based on his own experiences. The content of each of the chapters is very basic, but the author has attempted to make it clear that there is much more to learn than could be covered in a book of this size. He repeats this caveat at the end of most of the 17 chapters. However, a major failing of the book is that no bibliography is given which would enable the neophyte to follow up and learn more from the original sources. The author has suggested that the student call on the proper agencies and associations to obtain additional information.
A Review of Scientific Evidence in Criminal Cases, 3rd edition
Authors: Strong JW
Published: August 2015

This volume is the third edition of a work which, since its first appearance in 1973, has become the classic short treatment of its subject. The two senior authors, Professors Moenssens and Inbau, have long been associated with forensic science and have collaborated on the treatise since its inception. They are joined on the present edition by Professor James E. Starrs, also an experienced and well-known author on forensic science matters.
A Review of A Manual of Forensic Entomology
Authors: Rodriguez WC
Published: August 2015

Since the late 1800s the application of forensic entomology to the determination of “time since death” has been sporadically used in Europe, and to a greater degree in the United States, with ever increasing success. Most of the previously published texts on forensic medicine and death investigation have provided little if any practical information on the use and practice of forensic entomology, as much of the research and case studies concerning this subject have been primarily published in entomological journals. The publication of this book can be considered as a significant contribution to the forensic science community, as it is the first text in English to deal exclusively with the application of entomology to the forensic sciences.
Medical Evaluation of the Victims of the 1986 Lake Nyos Disaster
Authors: Wagner GN , Clark MA , Koenigsberg EJ , Decata SJ
Published: August 2015

A cloud of carbon dioxide gas, with an estimated volume of 1 km3 was released from Lake Nyos, a volcanic crater lake in Cameroon, Africa, causing 1700 to 2000 human fatalities as well as killing thousands of livestock and wild animals. At the request of the Cameroonian Government, the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance of the U.S. Department of State sent a multidisciplinary team which included 2 forensic pathologists to assist the Government of Cameroon in investigating this natural disaster. The medical evaluation was concentrated in 3 areas: the autopsy of human and animal fatalities, examination and interview of survivors, and examination of the scene of the disaster. Toxicologic specimens were obtained at autopsy, and numerous samples of lake water were collected. The autopsy findings were consistent with asphyxia. The results of chemical analyses excluded many volatiles but not carbon dioxide as the toxic agent. The exact source of this gas continues to be a subject of a heated geologic debate, but termentation of organic materials in the lake water has been eliminated on the basis of C14 isotope studies. This investigation underlines the value of forensic pathologists in epidemiological studies and in the examination of living persons.
The Spectrum of Neuropathologic Findings in Deaths Associated with Seizure Disorders
Authors: Blisard KS , McFeeley PJ
Published: August 2015

The pathologic and neuropathologic findings in 90 autopsied cases of death associated with a seizure disorder or complication thereof were reviewed. Most (69%) of the deceased individuals were between 21 and 40 years of age; two thirds were male. In 58% of patients, no cause of death other than seizure disorder was found. The ultimate cause of death in those patients was assumed to be a cardiac arrhythmia or respiratory arrest. Drowning accounted for 19% of deaths, and 17% of patients died of other contributory causes such as suicide, exposure, or atherosclerotic coronary vascular disease. Aspiration was found in the remaining 6%. Tongue lacerations or bite marks were observed in only one third of cases. The brain was normal in approximately two thirds of cases, with no focus for the origination of seizure found on neuropathologic examination. In the remainder of cases, a variety of lesions was found, with cavitary lesions, contusions, and dural lesions being the most common ones.
Comparison of Laser and High-Intensity Quartz Arc Tubes in the Detection of Body Secretions
Authors: Auvdel MJ
Published: August 2015

The detection capabilities of both laser and high-intensity quartz arc tabes were evaluated. The Spectra-Physics Model 171-19, 18-W argon ion laser and Laser Sonics Model CS-2, 200-mW air-cooled argon ion laser were compared with Payton Scientific's Luma-Print, high-intensity quartz arc tube. The light sources were evaluated as to their detection limits for various biological stains. The stains that were evaluated had been made during prior research. These stains had been stored at room temperature for approximately two years. The stains were a serial dilution made from semen, saliva, and sweat specimens and were examined using both laser light sources and the high-intensity quartz arc tube. The advantages and disadvantages of each light source in relationship to its initial costs and potential use in forensic serology are discussed.
A Computer-Aided Seal Discriminating System
Authors: Tang GY
Published: August 2015

A computer-aided system for seal discriminating is developed. The system uses the state-of-the-art technology of digital image processing. The conventional methods such as diagonal match and full match are computerized. The advantage of the computerized method is that it is nondestructive and fast. With the use of proper optical lens, it offers good accuracy. The computerized method can compare the geometry and the intensity variation, while the conventional method is limited to the geometry match. The intensity variation carries information about the seal surface smoothness, the ink concentration, the seal material, the paper material, the paper support, and so forth. The seal surface smoothness is the kind of characteristic which cannot be reproduced easily. It is believed that the surface smoothness is the key to breaking the advanced forging techniques. The system was made and is used at the Central Investigation Bureau of Taipei, Taiwan.
The Presence of Counsel at Forensic Psychiatric Examinations
Authors: Rachlin S , Schwartz HI
Published: August 2015

In virtually all situations involving forensic psychiatric assessments, the patient is represented by counsel. But does this fact entitle the lawyer to be present at the clinical evaluation? In a series of New York cases spanning a generation, judges have allowed presence of counsel at the psychiatric examination. The most common reason given for such a conclusion is to assure better cross-examination of the expert witness. Psychiatric evaluations mandated by law necessitate several guidelines different from those of the usual doctor/patient relationship. While we may have to accept the presence of attorneys in our consulting rooms, they should be observers only. To allow active intervention would distort the clinical process.
Do Forensic Science Graduate Programs Fulfill the Needs of the Forensic Science Community?
Authors: Higgins KM , Selavka CM
Published: August 2015

This research project was designed to address a number of issues which were felt to be vital to the construction of a meaningful graduate program in forensic chemistry. The purpose of the project was threefold: (1) to determine the current status of the graduate forensic science educational service in the United States; (2) to determine the effectiveness of forensic science graduate programs in providing new employees having appropriate skills and educational background; and (3) to assess the roles of local, state, national, and academic laboratories in forensic science research. The results indicate that graduate degree programs are generally well-focused, but that many managers do not require such training background for applicants. It was also found that, in the perception of forensic science practitioners, forensic science research should be performed in all settings including the practicing labs and academic and Federal research labs, but that funding and release time should be increased to allow for greater efforts and better research.
The Use of Frequency-Doubled Neodymium: Yttrium Aluminum Garnet (Nd: YAG) Laser for Enhancement of Weak Bloody Fingerprints
Authors: Cheng S-G
Published: August 2015

Ninhydrin/zinc chloride, which has been proven to be unsuitable for the neodymium: yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd: YAG) laser development of latent fingerprints, is demonstrated here because of its pronounced improvement in weak bloody fingerprint detection.
A Simple Pattern Method for Alpha2 HS-Glycoprotein Typing
Authors: Sebetan IM
Published: August 2015

An improved method for the separation of the genetic variants of the human serum alpha2 HS-glycoprotein using isoelectric focusing in ultrathin-layer polyacrylamide gel containing carrier ampholyte pH 4 to 6.5 gradient and neuraminidase pretreated samples is described. The pattern obtained is simple, easily interpretable, and reproducible.
The Identification of Nitromethaqualone and Its Differentiation from Some Positional Isomers
Authors: Clark CC
Published: August 2015

Nitromethaqualone [2-methyl-3(2′-methoxy-4′-nitrophenyl)-4(3H)-quinazolinone] and its three positional isomers formed by moving the nitro group on the phenyl ring containing the 2′-methoxyl group have been synthesized and characterized. Mass spectra, infrared spectra, nuclear magnetic resonance spectra, and the gas-liquid chromatographic behavior of these compounds are presented. It is shown that infrared spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, and electron impact mass spectroscopy combined with gas-liquid chromatography are capable of differentiating nitromethaqualone from any of the studied isomers, methaqualone, and mecloqualone.
Sacralization of a Sixth Lumbar Vertebra and Its Effect upon the Estimation of Living Stature
Authors: Lundy JK
Published: August 2015

Stature is estimated in a case presenting a sacralized sixth lumbar vertebra using both Fully's anatomical method and Trotter and Gleser's stature estimation formulas. In this case, where antemortem stature is known, the accuracy of the anatomical method is enhanced by including the height of the actual S1 segment in the calculation, while the accuracy of the Trotter and Gleser estimate is enhanced by adding the height of the extra vertebra to the stature estimate.
Tissue Distribution of Ethosuximide and Clobazam in a Seizure Related Fatality
Authors: Fraser AD , Isner AF , Heifetz SA
Published: August 2015

The case of a six-year-old male who died in a hospital while receiving several anti-convulsant drugs is described. Phenytoin, desmethyldiazepam, clobazam (an experimental 1,5 benzodiazepine), and desmethylclobazam were quantitated in serum, liver, and brain tissue by high performance liquid chromatography. Ethosuximide was quantitated by gas chromatography. To our knowledge, this is one of few reports describing tissue concentrations of ethosuximide collected at autopsy and the first report of clobazam/desmethylclobazam tissue distribution in man.
Regional Cooperation and Regional Centers Among Forensic Science Programs in the United States
Authors: Gaensslen RE , Lee HC
Published: August 2015

Various types of cooperative arrangements between the forensic science programs of colleges and universities are discussed as possible means of increasing student exposure to faculty expertise in specialized subject areas and of using more effectively the comparatively scarce resources of individual programs.
Forensic Science Laboratory/Forensic Science Program Cooperation and Relationships: The View from the Forensic Science Laboratory
Authors: Lee HC , Gaensslen RE
Published: August 2015

Some areas of common interest and potential cooperation between casework forensic science laboratories and university and college based forensic science programs are discussed. These include internships, joint research, the use of laboratory personnel as instructors in programs, and the use of faculty as consultants for the casework laboratory.
Research Experience and Future Criminalists
Authors: Smith FP , Liu RH , Lindquist CA
Published: August 2015

With research as its distinguishing characteristic, graduate education in the United States provides the philosophical foundation which, when properly focused, may prepare future criminalists to address significant problems in and advance successfully the practice of criminalistics. Graduate research is the source of much of the knowledge explosion responsible for many state-of-the-art forensic science techniques. In particular, the discoveries and other contributions made by forensic science researchers at universities have been abundant.

Graduate research experiences exemplify one of the means proposed to accomplish goals through the encouragement of creative problem solving ability. The paper includes examples of questions confronting criminalistics with emphasis on the ways the graduate research process may contribute to piloting the profession through transition with sensitivity and understanding.
A Medical Model for Criminalistics Education
Authors: Stoney DA
Published: August 2015

The history of medical education during the period of 1870 to 1926 is examined in the context of current issues confronting education in the forensic laboratory sciences. Medical education was radically altered during this period, changing from a rudimentary lecture/apprenticeship system into its modern form.

Although the motivating forces had developed over some time, the actual change was quite rapid. By examining how this change occurred, we gain insight into how changes in our own profession might be initiated.

Parallels between our current situation and that in medical education 117 years ago include: (1) the primary burden of professional education is borne outside the university in an apprenticeship system, (2) the apprenticeship system is overburdened by a dramatic expansion in the knowledge and skills needed for professional practice, (3) there is no standardized curriculum or accreditation process for educational programs, and (4) there is no educational program that incorporates formal clinical education.

Based on this historical analysis, three major goals are proposed: (1) active entreprenurial promotion of professional educational programs by academics, (2) creation of a committee within the American Academy of Forensic Sciences to critique and rate university programs, and (3) the development of a well-defined clinical education program.

A model for formalized clinical education in the forensic laboratory sciences is proposed, incorporating clinical professors, student clerkships, and university control over instruction within an operational forensic science laboratory. Benefits from this arrangement include: efficient combination of physical plants, added personnel resources in the laboratory, rapid introduction of research into the laboratory, enhanced prestige for both academics and practitioners, and relief of the laboratory's in-house training burden.
A Review of Cocaine: A Clinician's Handbook
Authors: Jones AM
Published: August 2015

This volume is the best single source for current medical information on cocaine and represents the authoritative work of 26 contributors. The book includes chapters on the causes of widespread cocaine use; recent cocaine abuse trends based on the “800 Cocaine” telephone hotline; and medical and biologic consequences of cocaine abuse including fatal reactions, psychopharmacology, central nervous system (CNS) mechanisms of dependency, emergency treatment of acute cocaine reactions, treatment of inpatient and outpatient cocaine abusers, pharmacologic treatment, treatment of adolescent abusers, treatment of cocaine abusing health care professionals, cocaine smoking, cocaine in the workplace, alcohol associated problems, pathologic gambling in cocaine abusers, laboratory detection, psychiatric and psychodynamic factors in cocaine dependence, and the consequences of cocaine and other drug use in pregnancy.
Standard Reference Materials
Authors: Rasberry SD
Published: August 2015

For more than 80 years the National Bureau of Standards (NBS) has issued Standard Reference Materials (SRMs) to help people measure more accurately and have greater confidence in their technical investigations. I was especially pleased when the editor of your journal, Dr. Abel Dominguez, asked me to report to you those aspects of this program of greatest interest in forensic sciences. Not only do I appreciate the opportunity to give you that report, I also see the chance of opening communications with some of you to see what new directions NBS might take to address unmet requirements in the field.
The Comparison of Black Polyvinylchloride (PVC) Tapes by Pyrolysis Gas Chromatography
Authors: Williams ER , Munson TO
Published: August 2015

Pyrolysis capillary gas chromatography (Py-GC) was used to compare thirty black polyvinylchloride (PVC) tapes. A 0.5-mm square of tape (about 25 μg) was found to be an adequate sample size. Tests of within-roll homogeneity showed sufficiently consistent pyrogram patterns throughout to allow correct matches to be made. Twenty-six of the tapes gave pyrograms which were easily distinguishable from all the others. Fragments of tape recovered after the detonation of four improvised explosive devises were matched to the appropriate tape standards by Py-GC even when the fragments were partially burned.
Dangerous Information: Product Tampering and Poisoning Advice in Revenge and Murder Manuals
Authors: Dietz PE
Published: August 2015

This paper reviews 18 publications that advocate the use of product tampering and other poisoning methods as techniques for exacting revenge against individuals and corporations, as methods of committing murder, and for other criminal purposes. Several of the particular techniques recommended in these publications subsequently have been used in criminal tampering incidents. The published sources of technical guidance for the would-be tamperer and poisoner are examined in detail to alert forensic scientists, law enforcement authorities, and the food and drug industry to the particular techniques that are being advocated. Possible criminal and civil liability of the publishers and authors is discussed. The author suggests that food and drug retailers consider the wisdom of selling magazines that advertise the availability of revenge and murder manuals advocating product tampering and poisoning, that food and drug manufacturers test the effects on their products of the contaminants that are being recommended, and that investigators be alert to the existence of such manuals and mail-order suppliers of poisons.
The Effects of Aging on the Comparability of Antemortem and Postmortem Radiographs
Authors: Sauer NJ , Brantley RE , Barondess DA
Published: August 2015

To study the effects of aging on the ability to make positive identifications from radiographs of the postcranial axial skeleton, we collected early and later exposed abdominal X-rays from five patients whose period of treatment spanned from ten to twenty-three years. Corresponding lumbar vertebrae from each pair of radiographs were compared for similarities and differences in several of the criteria that have been reported as useful for individualization. These include shapes of the bodies, spinous processes, transverse processes, pedicles, and osteophytic extrusions. It is our conclusion that even though bone is a flexible tissue and changes constantly during life, aspects of the criteria chosen are quite stable and that even after two-and-a-half decades the ability to make positive identifications from postcranial axial material is not necessarily diminished.
Rapid Isolation of Benzodiazepines with Sep-Pak® C18 Cartridges
Authors: Suzuki O , Seno H , Kumazawa T
Published: August 2015

A rapid method for isolation of various benzodiazepines from human samples with Sep-Pak® C18 cartridges before wide-bore capillary gas chromatography is described. The drugs dissolved in alkaline samples were directly applied to the cartridges and eluted with hexane/isopropanol (9:1). The recoveries were excellent for all drugs in urine samples, but were somewhat lower for some drugs in plasma samples. The latter problem could be easily circumvented by using a deproteinization process before their application to the cartridge. We can recommend the Sep-Pak C18 cartridges for isolation of benzodiazepines because of their simplicity and rapidity.
Identification of Sugars in Explosive Residues by Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Nowicki J , Pauling S
Published: August 2015

Chlorate/sugar mixtures are commonly used in improvised explosive devices. Sugars in the burnt chlorate/sugar residues are derivatized using trimethylsilylimidazole (TMSI) in pyridine. The resulting sugar-TMS derivatives are analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The presence of chlorates or byproducts of the chlorate/sugar reaction do not interfere in this process.
Tests of Genetic Markers on Aborted Fetal Material
Authors: Reisner EG , Clark AR , Shoffner JC
Published: August 2015

Women who conceive as a result of rape often elect to abort the fetus. We describe twelve cases where genetic markers were tested on the aborted fetal material to provide evidence of the genetic constitution of the rapist. Two cases are presented in detail, and the problems encountered with the testing are discussed.
A Review of Human Osteology—A Laboratory and Field Manual Third Edition
Authors: Yaşar İşcan M
Published: August 2015

This is a book that the author should be proud of for its success in North American osteology. This success can be measured by the fact that it is in its third edition and the first two went through their sixth and fourth printings, respectively, since it was first published in 1971. This third edition (unlike the second) is completely revised and updated throughout. It is 40 pages longer and contains 54 tables and 190 figures (11 tables and 32 figures more than the 1979 edition). The font size is larger and the book is available in both spiral and bound forms. While I personally preferred the bound form, my students disagreed.
A Review of Thin-Layer Chromatographic Rf Values of Toxicologically Relevant Substances on Standardized Systems
Authors: Peat MA
Published: August 2015

This book presents Rf values on approximately 1100 toxicologically relevant substances in 10 standardized thin-layer systems. The authors' hope is that the compilation will serve a useful purpose for toxicology analysis. In the introduction to the book the authors review the means by which the data were collected, the use of reference substances, and the use of the tabulated data included in the book.
A Review of Techniques of Crime Scene Investigation
Authors: McCarty VO
Published: August 2015

The author states this book is “written for the student engaged in the study of crime scene investigation and physical evidence, for the experienced investigator as a reference work, and for the nonforensic scientist who must be familiar with physical evidence.” Within these defined limits the book is both contemporary and comprehensive. Newer methodology such as laser light enhancement of fingerprints and the use of cyanoacrylate ester fuming Superglue® are included as notable updates over prior publications available for students.
A Review of Pathology Annual 1987: Part 2
Authors: Sperry K
Published: August 2015

Pathology, as the study of disease, effectively incorporates a part of all the various subdisciplines of medicine. In a similar manner, forensic pathology is the application of law to the study and interpretation of disease and injury. As any busy forensic pathologist will attest, the practice of this specialty transcends the usual public image of dealing solely with violent deaths, as medicolegal problems are increasingly apparent at virtually all levels of medicine, and it is often the forensic pathologist who has both the accumulated experience and the willingness to address such questions. Consequently, as any good physician is wont to do, the pathologist continues to learn, grow professionally, and adapt to the constantly evolving scope of medicine in a technological age.
The Present Direction of Research in Forensic Odontology
Authors: Katz JO , Cottone JA
Published: August 2015

Forensic odontology is receiving increased attention in the literature and has become a widely recognized field of expertise with broad ramifications. With this growth, research is needed to solve the most pressing problems of the discipline. The purpose of this paper is to identify current trends in research in forensic odontology. The review consisted of studies using the scientific method and reports of new techniques being tested. Also, abstracts from the annual meeting of the Odontology Section of the American Academy of Forensic Sciences from 1980 to 1987 have been reviewed to determine the current areas of emphasis in forensic dentistry.
A Scanning Electron Microscopy and Electron Probe X-Ray Microanalysis (SEM-EPMA) of Pink Teeth
Authors: Ikeda N , Watanabe G , Harada A , Suzuki T
Published: August 2015

Samples of postmortem pink teeth were investigated by scanning electron microscopy and electron probe X-ray microanalysis. Fracture surfaces of the dentin in pink teeth were noticeably rough and revealed many more smaller dentinal tubules than those of the control white teeth. Electron probe X-ray microanalysis showed that the pink teeth contained iron which seemed to be derived from blood hemoglobin. The present study confirms that under the same circumstance red coloration of teeth may occur more easily in the teenth in which the dentin is less compact and contains more dentinal tubules.
Color Matching Within a Fiber Data Collection
Authors: Hartshorne AW , Laing DK
Published: August 2015

The fiber data collection in use in the Home Office Forensic Science Service uses complementary chromaticity coordinates as a method of color description. Color variation within samples is represented by an elliptical error region around the mean chromaticity point of the sample.

For searching this collection, a method of matching single colors to the collection ellipses has been assessed. However, the necessary calculations are complex, so a number of simpler alternatives has been investigated. A simple box search has been found to be convenient, albeit with some reduction in specificity.
Fast Isoelectric Focusing of Some Polymorphic Proteins and Enzymes in Miniaturized Gels Using an Automated System
Authors: Carracedo A , Andrade-Vide C , Rodriguez-Calvo MS , Montiel MD , Lareu MV
Published: August 2015

Optimal programs for the separation of polymorphic proteins and enzymes in miniaturized polyacrylamide gels using an automated system (PhastSystem) are described. The potential advantages and disadvantages of the method and its application to forensic science laboratories are discussed.
Fluorescence of Petroleum Products III. Three-Dimensional Fluorescence Plots of Petrolatum-Based Products
Authors: Gugel J , Siegel JA
Published: August 2015

A high degree of association between known and unknown specimens of petrolatum-based lubricants, which occur as evidence in criminal sexual assault cases, can be demonstrated by using three-dimensional fluorescence spectroscopy (3-D fluorescence). Fifteen petrolatum-based products, five mock cases, and two cases provided by the Michigan State Police Crime Laboratory are analyzed and compared using this technique. Controls are run to eliminate interfering substances and to insure proper technique. Three-dimensional plots of excitation, emission, and synchronous excitation fluorescence spectra are collected. A computerized comparison of the resultant plots is conducted to determine if any differences occur between the plots. The results of these analyses suggest that this technique has great potential as an analytical tool, allowing the analyst to determine whether or not two petrolatum-based products could have a common source.
Cardiac Blood pH as a Possible Indicator of Postmortem Interval
Authors: Sawyer WR , Steup DR , Martin BS , Forney RB
Published: August 2015

Postmortem changes in the pH of blood and selected tissues in rats were evaluated at intervals ranging from 2 min to 96 h. Cardiac blood pH was significantly and reproducibly decreased in all groups at all postmortem intervals, independent of the method of sacrifice used. A preliminary study using cardiac blood obtained at autopsy from a limited number (n = 11) of human subjects demonstrated a significant negative correlation (r = −0.908, P < 0.01) between postmortem interval (range 2 to 20 h) and cardiac blood pH.
Pheochromocytoma and Sudden Death as a Result of Cerebral Infarction in Turner's Syndrome: Report of a Case
Authors: Knisely AS , Sweeney K , Ambler MW
Published: August 2015

Various etiologies for hypertension in Turner's syndrome, a common feature of the disorder, are well recognized. Pheochromocytoma is not among them. A young woman with Turner's syndrome, recently diagnosed with hypertension, died suddenly and unexpectedly. A hemorrhagic cerebral infarct and an adrenal gland pheochromocytoma were found at necropsy. This is the first reported case of pheochromocytoma associated with Turner's syndrome.
Recovery of Latent Prints and Drug Residues from a Problem Porous Surface
Authors: Nielson JP , Katz AI
Published: August 2015

A protocol to maximize the probability of recovery of both drug residues and latent prints has been previously reported. A particular type of substrate (paper) has been encountered which traps drug residues in the paper matrix, thereby preventing recovery by the methods previously reported. In the case in which the existing protocol fails to recover drug residues, an additional technique is described which has allowed recovery of confirmatory amounts of the drug. The technique consists of sonication of the substrate in methanol after latent print processing.
A Review of Violence Prediction: Guidelines for the Forensic Practitioner
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

Violence prediction is a most important subject today in our society which is one enmeshed in a surprising degree of criminality. This aura of violence and threat contrasts markedly with our image of ourselves as an advanced, civilized, and genteel society. A book review is not a place to indulge in speculation as to why this is a crime-ridden land. Suffice to say that in numerous circumstances, individuals are frequently assessed for violence potential and that such assessment is fraught with pitfalls—not the least of which is the problem of predicting future events, weighing the possibility of future intervening effects or circumstances, and attempting to deal with cultural factors that play an obviously important role in violence. In any event, numerous variables enter into the assessment mechanism which is relevant both to the criminal justice and mental health systems.
A Review of Human Values in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology
Authors: Moenssens AA
Published: August 2015

Determining proper medical treatment and whether to treat and how to treat child cancer patients calls for a consideration of ethical, familial, and human values, as well as an appreciation of the laws that govern medical practice and define protections afforded patients. This book focuses on the human values involved in decision making about the care and treatment of child cancer patients. The volume consists of a series of essays by 16 medical and legal professionals, organized in 2 parts. Part 1 deals with issues in clinical research and Part 2, which comprises the bulk of the book, addresses issues in patient care. Succinct and well written, the book is recommended not only for medical and legal professionals, but also for parents confronted with medical choices for a child suffering with cancer.
A Review of Evil Angels
Authors: Slovenko R
Published: August 2015

I was in Australia in late 1987, my first visit to the country, when I heard about the case of Lindy Chamberlain. She was convicted years earlier, in 1982, of the murder of her nine-week-old daughter Azaria. To this day, the case arouses strong, divided opinion among Australians. It has gripped the nation like nothing else. Wherever one would go, people would talk about it. It is Australia's most controversial criminal case.
Validity Testing of Commercial Urine Cocaine Metabolite Assays: I. Assay Detection Times, Individual Excretion Patterns, and Kinetics After Cocaine Administration to Humans
Authors: Cone EJ , Menchen SL , Paul BD , Mell LD , Mitchell J
Published: August 2015

A validity study of eight commercial urine assays for detection of cocaine metabolite was performed on clinical specimens collected from human subjects who received single 20-mg intravenous doses of cocaine hydrochloride. The specimens were collected under controlled conditions and analyzed in random order under blind conditions. Benzoylecgonine concentration in each specimen also was determined by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS). Mean times of detection of the last positive specimen (≥ 300 ng/mL of benzoylecgonine equivalents) after cocaine administration varied among seven of the commercial tests from 16.9 to 52.9 h in the following aseending order: Toxi-Lab® < TDx® = EMIT® dau™ = EMIT® st™ < Abuscreen® < Coat-A-Count® = Double Antibody. In contrast, a commercial spot test (KDI Quik Test™) which was evaluated for detection of cocaine metabolite produced both false positives and false negatives for benzoylecgonine and was not considered to be a valid test for detection of cocaine metabolite. Half-lives of excretion of benzoylecgonine among four subjects varied from 5.9 to 7.9 h, and overall recovery of benzoylecgonine varied from 15.0 to 34.3% of the administered dose of cocaine.
Analysis of Cocaine-Positive Fatalities
Authors: Tardiff K , Gross E , Wu J , Stajic M , Millman R
Published: August 2015

A review of all autopsy and toxicology reports for persons dying in New York City in an 11-month period found 935 persons dying with cocaine in their bodies. Cocaine-positive fatalities were more likely in the young black and Hispanic and male population. In addition to cocaine and its metabolites, heroin and other opiates were found in 39% of persons and ethanol in 33% and barbituates and minor tranquilizers in only 2% of the deceased. Cocaine overdose was responsible for 4% of the deaths and overdose with heroin and cocaine for 12% of the deaths. Violence was often the cause of death. Thirty-eight percent died of homicide, seven percent of suicide, and eight percent from accidents. Of particular interest were 6 persons who died of acute cardiac events directly related to cocaine as well as 4 cases of ruptured dissections of the ascending aorta, and 9 cases of cerebral hemorrhage. Autopsy findings for these individuals are described, and possible mechanisms of death are discussed.
Comparison of Smokeless Powders by Pyrolysis Capillary Gas Chromatography and Pattern Recognition
Authors: Keto RO
Published: August 2015

Four smokeless powder propellants from each of three domestic manufacturers were analyzed by pyrolysis capillary gas chromatography. Pyrograms were compared to see if this was a viable technique for the identification of a questioned smokeless powder. Comparisons were made between particles from the same manufacturer's product and lot, between different lots of the same manufacturer's product, and between different manufacturers' products. The differences between the pyrograms were less than anticipated, and some of the manufacturer's products could not be differentiated from others. Correlation values were computed to quantify the degree to which each pyrogram matched each of the others. The correlation values for within-product comparisons averaged 97.1 out of a possible 100, whereas those for between-product comparisons averaged 80.0. The range of correlation values for between-product comparisons overlapped the range of correlation values for within-product comparisons. This limited the conclusion that could be drawn regarding the origin of a smokeless powder in question.
Amanita Phalloides Mushroom Poisoning: A Cluster of Four Fatalities
Authors: McClain JL , Hause DW , Clark MA
Published: August 2015

A group of four illegal aliens had been without food for several days when they found a group of wild mushrooms growing in a field in Southern California. Each man consumed a meal of one to six fried mushrooms. Two days after eating the mushrooms, all four men developed abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and intractable vomiting. Three days after consuming the mushrooms, all four were hospitalized and their clinical courses rapidly deteriorated to refractory hepatorenal failure and coma. Three of the victims died three days after admission to the hospital and the fourth died eight days after admission. The autopsy findings are presented and the mechanism of Amanita phalloides mushroom poisoning is discussed.
Changes in the Specificity of Blood Groups Induced by Enzymes from Soil Fungi
Authors: Kubo S
Published: August 2015

Three strains of Cunninghamella elegance (C. elegance), Penicillium simplicissimum (P. simpl.), and Aspergillus niger (A. niger) were isolated from soil that produced the enzymes acting on blood groups A and B red cells. Culture filtrates from these fungi contained α-N-acetyl-D-galactosaminidase as an A-decomposing enzyme, which resulted in an almost complete loss of A specificity and an enhancement of blood group H activity as measured by elution tests using monoclonal antibodies. They also contained an α-D-galactosidase and an α-L-fucosidase, which partially destroyed the blood group B specific activity, but did not influence the blood group H specific activity.
Forensic Science Applications of Diffuse Reflectance Infrared Fourier Transform Spectroscopy (DRIFTS): IV. Direct Analysis of Metallic Paints—Sampling Considerations
Authors: Suzuki EM
Published: August 2015

Many metallic paints, which are commonly used for automotive finishes, can be sampled directly using diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS). The density of metallic flakes used in a particular paint is the primary factor determining the applicability of this method. Specular reflectance, which often limits the usefulness of data obtained from direct DRIFTS sampling, can be mostly eliminated through selective changes in the geometry of the diffuse reflectance accessory. The nature of this direct sampling method depends on the density of the metallic flakes, and a Kubelka-Munk-type reflectance is not the only process involved. For paints having a high density of metallic flakes, spectra of chips as small as 0.5 by 0.5 mm can be obtained. Metallic paints having a basecoat/clearcoat finish can also be sampled using this method, but the clearcoat or primer layer must first be removed.
A New Film for Ultraviolet Photography
Authors: Frair JA , West MH , Davies JE
Published: August 2015

A new generation of black-and-white films manufactured by Eastman Kodak under the name of T-Max have proved, through controlled experiments, to be superior to existing film emulsions in recording short ultraviolet reflective and fluorescent photographs. The positive and negative aspects of this film emulsion are explored as they apply to forensic ultraviolet photography.
Suicide by Intravenous Injection of Cocaine. A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Sperry K , Sweeney ES
Published: August 2015

Death as a consequence of cocaine abuse is continuing to increase in all parts of the United States. Cocaine use may cause the development of psychosis, with subsequent expression of suicidal ideations, and potentially even successful suicide. Cocaine dependence may also cause depression in the individual who is unable to control his or her craving for the drug, and suicide may be perceived as the only solution to a desperate problem. Despite the dramatic escalation of cocaine abuse and the potential toxicity of this drug, there have been no reports within the United States of cocaine being used as the agent to accomplish a suicide. Herewith are reported three cases in which depression and desperation over cocaine dependence were the motivations for successful suicide, which was accomplished through the intravenous injection of cocaine to the point of death. True cocaine suicide is probably only identified through the presence of objective scene information that unequivocally proves suicidal intent, such as notes or letters which contain information to this effect. A careful search of the scene of death in cocaine fatalities is mandatory, and diligent application of routine scene investigation principles may reveal that suicide through the use of cocaine is more widespread than first appearances would suggest.
Postmortem Determination of the Biological Distribution of Sufentanil and Midazolam after an Acute Intoxication
Authors: Ferslew KE , Hagardorn AN , McCormick WF
Published: August 2015

A case is presented of a death caused by self-injection of sufentanil and midazolam. Biological fluids and tissues were analyzed for midazolam by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and for sufentanil by GC/MS. Midazolam was extracted from basified fluids or tissues homogenated with n-butyl chloride and analyzed by HPLC by using a phosphate buffer: acetonitrile (60:40) mobile phase on a μ-Bondapak C18 column at 240 nm. Sufentanil was extracted from basified fluids and tissue homogenates with hexane:ethanol (19:1). GC/MS methodology for both compounds consisted of chromatographic separation on a 15-m by 0.25-mm inside diameter (ID) DB-5 (1.0-μm-thick film) bonded phase fused silica capillary column with helium carrier (29 cm/s) splitless injection at 260°C; column 200°C (0.8 min) 10°C/min to 270°C; and electron ionization and multiple ion detection for midazolam (m/z 310), methaqualone (IS, m/z 235), sufentanil (m/z 289), and fentanyl (IS, m/z 245). Sufentanil concentrations were: blood 1.1 ng/mL, urine 1.3 ng/mL, vitreous humor 1.2 ng/mL, liver 1.75 ng/g, and kidney 5.5 ng/g. Midazolam concentrations were: blood 50 ng/mL, urine 300 ng/mL, liver 930 ng/g, and kidney 290 ng/g. Cause of death was attributed to an acute sufentanil/midazolam intoxication and manner of death a suicide.
Cranial Suture Eccentricities: A Case in Which Precocious Closure Complicated Determination of Sex and Commingling
Authors: Reichs KJ
Published: August 2015

The union of the cranial sutures can follow a somewhat erratic course. While it is recognized that this can cause inaccuracies in estimating age at death, deviant closure patterns can influence assessments other than age. Premature or eccentrically fusing sutures can alter cranial growth and, therefore, shape. Such modified growth vectors can significantly influence metric analysis.

A case is described in which precocious synostosis of the sagittal suture complicated determination of sex in a set of skeletalized remains. Features of the cranium and post-cranial skeleton indicated the individual was male, while the mandible, both metrically and morphologically, appeared to have come from a female. This led to the question of commingling. Techniques are described which were used to resolve these issues.
Analytical Methods for Developing Fibers as Forensic Science Proof: A Review with Comments
Authors: Fong W
Published: August 2015

A review and commentary of the principal methods for developing textile fibers as evidence are given. The methods reviewed proceed from the preliminary phase of finding and handling to the subsequent phases of identification, characterization, and comparison. The latter phase is arranged to progress from methods that require only microscopic amounts of fibers and are nondestructive to those that require progressively larger amounts of fibers and are destructive. The relevant literature in the time period 1950 to 1987 is included.
Concentration Techniques for the Detection of Gunshot Residues by Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy Dispersive X-Ray Analysis (SEM/EDX)
Authors: Zeichner A , Foner HA , Dvorachek M , Bergman P , Levin N
Published: August 2015

The efficiency of the filtration process for concentrating small populations of gunshot residue (GSR) particles (for detection by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray analysis [SEM/EDX]) was examined with a novel method using GSR particle suspensions. Methods of concentrating and segregating GSR particles on small areas (for example, 7 mm2) using both filtration and heavy liquid separations with centrifugation were examined from the practical point of view. It is shown that, in real cases, there may be an intrinsic difficulty in concentrating GSR particles as a result of a pile up of extraneous material or clogging of the collecting filter or both.

Collection of GSR particles from clothes using a suction method was compared to the direct glue-lift technique. The suction method involved trapping the GSRs in an organic solvent and recovering them on a membrane filter. The method proved less efficient than using the glue-lift technique.

From the findings in this study, it seems that the most efficient way of detecting GSR particles by SEM/EDX is by using the recently developed automated systems directly on glue-lift samples without any pretreatment.