bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sugar Beet Production: A System Dynamics Model and Economic Analysis
Authors: Rozman Črtomir , Kljajić Miroljub , Pažek Karmen
Published: August 2015

Background and Purpose: The sugar beet is the main field crop used for sugar production in the temperate climatic zone. Since investment in sugar beet industry are long term and ireversible the decision support and economic analysis are required in order to maximise investment returns.

Methodology: A system dynamics methodology was chosen to model the impacts of regional sugar factory investments. We present the basic concepts of system dynamics (SD) models and their development in the case of sugar beet production and processing systems. Sugar beet economics are also analyzed using the static technological economic simulation model.

Results: The simulation provides answers to strategic questions related to the total sugar beet production and processing system and will be used for the simulation of different scenarios for sugar production and their impact on economic and environmental parameters at an aggregate level. Furthermore, the feasibility analysis of sugar beet production revealed that at the current price and intensity levels (yields), we can expect profitable sugar beet production for both white sugar and ethanol.

Conclusion: Preliminary results show that under expected production parameters the sugar beet processing and production would be economically feasible.
Assessment of sodium and potassium levels in soil, feeds and hair of dairy cows in east-central Poland / Ocena poziomu sodu i potasu w glebie, paszach i sierści krów mlecznych z rejonu środkowo-wschodniej Polski
Authors: Górski Krzysztof , Saba Leon
Published: August 2015

Studies were conducted on farm “A” located in east-central Poland to assess the mineral content in cows, taking into account individual links of the soil-feed-animal trophic chain. The mineral assessment included the determination of Na and K. Soil samples were taken once from the humus layer (that is at the depth of 0-15 cm) of pastures and arable fields in mid-growing season by means of a soil sampling stick. Feed samples were taken regularly when the feeds were included in rations (all year round), making sure the samples were representative. Sodium and potassium contents in soil and feeds were determined by the Atomic Absorption Spectrometry methods and in hair by the Inductively Coupled Plasma-Optical Emission Spectrometry method. There were two dates for hair sample collection: I (10-14 days prior to calving) and II (after the first month of lactation). The results showed that Na and K concentrations were sufficient to meet animal needs. The sodium level in cow’s hair fell within the physiological range. Also potassium concentration complied with the referential standards (2000 mg·kg-1 d.m.) and approximated 2040 mg·kg-1 d.m.
Experimental study of penetration interfaces in the overflow fluid-assisted co-injection molding process
Authors: Kuang Tangqing , Yu Chuncong , Xu Baiping , Turng Lih-Sheng
Published: August 2015

The fluid-assisted co-injection molding (FACIM) process can be used to produce hollow plastic products with outer and inner layers. It can be divided into two categories: water-assisted co-injection molding (WACIM) and gas-assisted co-injection molding (GACIM). An experimental study of penetration interfaces in overflow FACIM was carried out based on a lab-developed FACIM system. High-density polyethylene and polypropylene were used as the outer layer and inner layer plastics, respectively, in the experiments and the injection sequence was reversible. Six cross-section cavities were investigated in the experiments. The penetration behaviors of water and gas in different sequences and cavities were compared and analyzed. The penetration interfaces were characterized by the residual wall thickness (RWT). The experimental results showed that the RWT of the inner layer in WACIM fluctuated along the flow direction, while that in GACIM was more even. The difference of viscosity between the outer and inner layer melts affected the stability of the interface between them. The penetration sections of the inner layer and the gas were closer to the cavity sections in GACIM, while the penetration sections of the inner layer and the water were closer to the circular forms in WACIM.
Granulomatosis after autologous stem cell transplantation in nonHodgkin lymphoma – experience of single institution and a review of literature
Authors: Boltezar Lucka , Zagar Ivana , Novakovic Barbara Jezersek
Published: August 2015

Background

Sarcoidosis before and after treatment of malignancy is an important differential diagnosis that has to be distinguished from lymphoma.

Patients and methods

Hodgkin lymphoma, diffuse large B-cell lymphoma and aggressive follicular lymphoma are being staged and treatment effect is evaluated with PET-CT. We report three cases of aggressive lymphoma after high dose therapy and autologous stem cell transplantation with positive lymph nodes on PET-CT, which were histologically diagnosed as sarcoidosis/granulomatosis. In the literature, we found that false positive lymph nodes were more common after allogeneic than after autologous transplantation.

Conclusions

Post-treatment PET-CT positive lymph nodes should always be examined histologically prior to any further treatment decision to avoid unnecessary toxic procedures.
Children of Romanian Migrants between “Here” and “There”: Stories of Home Attachment
Authors: Bratu Roxana
Published: August 2015

By analysing interviews from a larger qualitative study conducted in a Romanian village (Vulturu, Vrancea County) from the South-East region of the country, this paper explores the ways Romanian migrants’ children who were born in the country of origin but migrated to Italy or the so-called 1.5 Generation (Rumbaut 2002; 2012) talk about their ties with the home country. In other words, is Romania presented as more - or something else - than the original homeland?

The study analyses the concept of home attachment in terms of transnationalism understood as affective ties (Huynh and Yiu 2012; Paraschivescu 2011). Based on evidence from interview data a typology of attachment to the home country is outlined and further discussed. The results point to the conclusion that the issue of attachment to the home country is discursively constructed by respondents both explicitly and implicitly by multiple references to the family migration project and their immigrant status at destination. Moreover, I argue that the different types of attachment identified in the interviewees’ discourses are mediated by the subjective assessment of the integration experience into the host country.
Effect of matrix temperature and powder size on the infiltration height of SiO2-reinforced Al 7075 matrix composites produced by vacuum infiltration
Authors: Çalın Recep , Pul Muharrem , Bican Osman , Küçüktürk Gökhan
Published: August 2015

In this study, the effect powder size and matrix temperature on the physical and mechanical properties of SiO2-reinforced Al 7075 matrix composites were investigated. It was observed that with increasing powder size and temperature, infiltration height was increased. Optimum parameters of full infiltration that were determined for particle size and temperature were d50=150 μm and 800°C, respectively. It was also observed that the porosity of the produced composites changed in the range of 3.2–14.6%, and the lowest porosity was obtained from the composite having 105 μm SiO2 particle size. The highest fracture strength (263 MPa) was obtained from the composite produced at a matrix temperature of 800°C and a particle size of 420 μm. It was concluded that particle size and temperature are effective parameters to reach full infiltration, and this method is more suitable for producing the composites that have high reinforcement volume fractions than conventional casting methods.
Contents of selected macroelements in soils, potatoes and fodder beets at variable soil reaction / Zawartość wybranych makroelementów w glebach oraz w ziemniakach i burakach pastewnych przy zmiennym odczynie gleby
Authors: Rogóż Antoni , Tabak Monika
Published: August 2015

The aim of the research was to determine the concentration of selected macroelements in soil and in root crops (potatoes and fodder beets) at a variable soil reaction. The changes in pH values in the studied soils influenced the content of these elements in soluble forms determined in 0.1 mol HCl·dm-3. A statistical analysis showed a positive relationship between the soil pH value and the calcium and magnesium contents in a form close to the total form, as well as the content of soluble forms of phosphorus, calcium, and magnesium. The content of the studied macroelements, i.e. phosphorus, calcium, magnesium in the cultivated fodder beets and potatoes depended on abundance and form in which the studied elements occurred in soil, and also on specie and analyzed part of the plant. Along with the increase in pH values of the an increase in the phosphorus content and reduction of the magnesium content in the roots and above-ground parts of the beets were found. The calcium content in the roots increased along with an increase in pH of the soils, whereas direction of changes in the content of this element in the petioles and laminae of the beets was not unambiguous. A slight decrease in the content of the studied elements in the potato tubers (along with the increase in pH of the soils) was found.
Genesis and classification of the soils developed from the sediments of the former Oleszek mill pond basin (the Chełmińskie Lakeland, N Poland) / Geneza i pozycja systematyczna gleb wykształconych z osadów niecki dawnego stawu młyńskiego Oleszek (Pojezierze Chełmińskie)
Authors: Mendyk Łukasz , Świtoniak Marcin , Bednarek Renata , Falkowski Adam
Published: August 2015

Construction and operation of water mills had influenced the transformation of the relief and water conditions, as well as the soil cover around them. The study area includes the former Oleszek mill pond basin, located near the Borówno village, western part of the Chełmińskie Lakeland, about 20 km northeast of Toruń. The objective of the study was to determine the genesis of the soils developed from the Oleszek mill pond basin sediments. Five soil profiles were selected in the basin of the former mill pond, within the 550 m transect located along the Struga Rychnowska river. All of the analysed soils developed from the sediments filling the former mill pond basin. They have been developed as a result of a number of overlapping processes such as mud-forming, alluvial, colluvial and gleyic process. According to the Polish classification system (Classification of Polish Soils 2011) (CPS) two of the soils (profiles 3 and 4) derived from organo-mineral and organic materials are typical organic limnic soils. Systematic position of another two soils (2 and 5) was proposed as muddy soils. Due to the problems of classification of such soils, implementation of the muddy soils or muddy-gleyic soils subtypes (in Polish: gleby mułowate lub mułowato-glejowe) should be considered during developing of the next update of Classification of Polish Soils. These four profiles were classified as Histosols (profiles 3 and 4) and Gleysols (profiles 2 and 5) in WRB (2014). Pedons developed from alluvial materials (alluvial soils in CPS 2011 or Fluvic Phaeozems in WRB 2014) occurred in the proximal part of the basin.
Ongoing trends in precision metrology,
particularly in nanopositioning and nanomeasuring technology
Authors: Manske Eberhard , Füßl Roland , Mastylo Rostyslav , Vorbringer-Dorozhovets Nataliya , Birli Oliver , Jäger Gerd
Published: August 2015

Continuing engineering progress
in precision fabrication technologies, especially in the
diversified micro- and
nanotechnology, stimulates the advance in precision
metrology, particularly in nanopositioning and
nanomeasuring technology. Structures reach atomic
dimensions, and becoming more and more
complex. Consequently, measurements
are required – to an increasing extend – of larger
surface regions and sidewalls with higher aspect ratios as well as fully 3D
micro- and
nano-structures.

Therefore, the resolution of nanomeasuring machines
approaches the picometre level and the frequency stability of the laser
sources the range of 10–10 to provide multiscale
accuracy. Area-measuring optical
sensors provide vast amount of data (> 5 Tbyte). Lateral highly resolved measurements are only
possible by tip-based AFM single point probes but are
extremely time consuming. Here,
adaptive intelligent algorithms for optimum hierarchical measurement
strategies are necessary. Multisenor instrumentation and
multiparameter characterization provide additional challenges also in
profoundly parallel data processing.
Lithium Diffusion in Ion-Beam Sputtered Amorphous LiAlO2
Authors: Rahn Johanna , Witt Elena , Heitjans Paul , Schmidt Harald
Published: August 2015

We investigated lithium self-diffusion in amorphous lithium aluminate
(LiAlO2) layers between room temperature and
473 K. For the experiments, amorphous 6LiAlO2
(30 nm)/7LiAlO2 (1200 nm) isotope
hetero-structures were deposited by ion-beam sputtering on sapphire
substrates. Diffusion profiles were analysed by secondary ion mass
spectrometry (SIMS). The results show that the diffusivities obey the
Arrhenius law with an activation enthalpy of (0.94 ± 0.02) eV. This is not much different to the activation
enthalpy of 1.14 eV found for LiAlO2 single
crystals by impedance spectroscopy. It rationalizes the only modest
enhancement of diffusivities in amorphous lithium aluminate compared
to single crystals of three to five orders of magnitude in the
temperature range studied, when compared with, e.g., lithium niobate.
Surface and Interface Analysis of LiCoO2 and LiPON Thin Films by Photoemission: Implications for Li-Ion Batteries
Authors: Hausbrand René , Schwöbel André , Jaegermann Wolfram , Motzko Markus , Ensling David
Published: August 2015

Thin film technology is applied in different fields of Li-ion
battery research and development, such as the fabrication of thin
film cells and model electrodes. Data obtained by surface and
interface analysis of thin films provides important insights into
fundamental processes such as charge compensation mechanism or
interface formation. In this overview, we present the analysis of
LiCoO2 and LiPON thin films using photoemission. It
includes data obtained directly after preparation, after exposure to
molecular species and/or after electrode-electrolyte interface
formation. Information both on electronic structure and surface
chemistry of the films is deduced from core level spectra, valence
band spectra, Fermi level position and work function. Next to PES
analysis of our films, we address composition, structure and
functionality in more general terms in relation to literature.
Comments on the Statistical Aspects of the NRC's Report on DNA Typing
Authors: Devlin B , Risch N , Roeder K
Published: August 2015

The goal of the NRC report on DNA typing was to answer a “crescendo of questions concerning DNA typing,” many of them in the areas of population genetics and statistics. Unfortunately, few of these questions were answered adequately. In lieu of answering these questions, the panel proposed another conservative method of forensic inference, the “ceiling principle.” Aside from its extreme conservativeness, this new method is difficult to justify because it is based on inadequate population genetics and statistical theory. Moreover, in its ultimate implementation, the panel's method will depend on a population genetics study whose rationale is questionable. In this article, we elaborate some of the general comments we made about the NRC report in a recent article [1]. Specifically we cover three topics. First we question the statistical basis for the ceiling principle, showing that the empirical results that motivated the method are likely to be misinterpreted and showing, by power calculations, that the effects of population substructure cannot be substantial. Second, we show that the study design to determine “ceiling” allele frequencies has several undesirable statistical properties. Finally, we discuss the estimation of handling errors from the statistical perspective, a subject treated inadequately by the report.
Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry for the Determination of Cocaine and Benzoylecgonine over a Wide Concentration Range (<0.005–5 mg/dL) in Postmortem Blood
Authors: Corburt MR , Koves EM
Published: August 2015

The determination of cocaine and benzoylecgonine in blood by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry using selected ion monitoring was investigated. The method involved an extraction using rotation of an Amberlite® XAD-2-blood mixture and the use of deuterated internal standards with derivatization of benzoylecgonine using diazopropane. Standard curves with logarithmic-transformed data were constructed over the concentration range from 0.005 to 5 mg/dL. The use of a wide concentration range precludes using smaller sample sizes in repeated extractions to conform to a narrower concentration range of standards. The recovery of the extraction method was 85% for both cocaine and benzoylecgonine. The method was applied primarily to postmortem blood samples from 180 forensic cases and was statistically evaluated. The limit of detection for cocaine or benzoylecgonine extractions from 1 mL forensic blood samples is 0.00025 mg/dL. The method is routinely reliable and applicable to forensic toxicology investigations.
A Comparison of Meconium, Maternal Urine and Neonatal Urine for Detection of Maternal Drug Use During Pregnancy
Authors: Wingert WE , Feldman MS , Kim MH , Noble L , Hand I , Yoon JJ
Published: August 2015

A large scale drug screening study was done to determine the prevalence of drug use in a large metropolitan, obstetric population. Meconium and first voided urine, as well as maternal urine were collected from 423 consecutive deliveries. Urine samples and methanolic extracts of meconium were initially screened by Enzyme Multiplied Immunoassay Technique (EMIT) and then confirmed by Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). Analysis of cocaine metabolite as benzoylecogonine, cannabinoid as carboxy-THC, codeine, morphine and methadone were included in the study. The positive rate for benzoylecgonine was virtually identical for meconium, maternal urine and neonatal urine (12%). Analysis of meconium was found to be more reliable than analysis of maternal or neonatal urine for the detection of benzoylecgonine. Meconium did not appear to offer an advantage over maternal or neonatal urine for detection of cannabinoid, codeine, morphine, or methadone.
The Black Soldier Fly Hermetia illucens (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) As a Potential Measure of Human Postmortem Interval: Observations and Case Histories
Authors: Lord WD , Goff ML , Adkins TR , Haskell NH
Published: August 2015

The black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (L.), has been shown to be a ubiquitous inhabitant of both surface and buried human remains throughout the southern, central and western United States and Hawaii. Unlike most other species of forensically important Diptera, this species frequently dominates bodies in the dry/post decay stage of decomposition. Adults of the black soldier fly appear to initiate oviposition (egg laying) 20 to 30 days postmortem. Even at warm temperatures (27.8°C), subsequent completion of the life cycle can require an additional 55 days. Life history data for H. illucens, when used in combination with data for other cohabiting arthropod species and viewed in the context of local environmental conditions, can provide medicolegal investigators with valuable parameters for estimating the postmortem intervals for badly decomposed remains.
A Simple Method for Sampling Photocopy Toners for Examination by Microreflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrophotometry
Authors: Andrasko J
Published: August 2015

A simple method for sampling photocopy toners by thermal transfer to metallic stubs is described. The sampling causes only negligible destruction to the photocopy original. The toner material transferred to a metallic stub is analyzed by microreflectance FTIR. This method shows a good reproducibility, is sensitive and applicable to small areas on the transferred material.
Detection of Hydroquinone in a Poisoning Case
Authors: Saito T , Kojimahara M , Aoki K , Takeichi S
Published: August 2015

A fatality due to the ingestion of photographic developer solution containing hydroquinone is described. Hydroquinone was extracted from autopsy materials and identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The concentration of hydroquinone in the urine, liver, and kidney were 3.4 µg/mL, 0.5 and 0.2 µg/g, respectively.
A Review of “Seminal Zinc as a Screening Instrument for the Preliminary Identification of Semen Traces”
Authors: Rowe WF
Published: August 2015

This is the author's thesis for the degree of doctor of medical knowledge at the Catholic University of Louvain. As such, it displays the virtues and deficiencies of that genre of scientific literature. It is the fifty-fifth in the series Acta Biomedica Lovaniensia, all of which are evidently doctoral theses from the University of Louvain.
The Assessment of Frequency Estimates of Hae III-Generated VNTR Profiles in Various Reference Databases
Authors: Budowle B , Monson KL , Giusti AM , Brown BL
Published: August 2015

The likelihood of occurrence of 1964 Hae III-generated target DNA profiles was estimated using fixed bin frequencies from various regional and ethnic databases and the multiplication rule. The databases generally were from the following major categories: Black, Caucasian, Hispanic, Oriental, and American Indian. It was found that subdivision, either by ethnic group or by U.S. geographic region, within a major population group did not substantially affect forensic estimates of the likelihood of occurrence of a DNA profile. As expected, the greatest variation in estimates for within-group estimates was among American Indian databases. Because the greatest variation in statistical estimates occurs across-major population groups, in most cases, there will be no unfair bias applying general population database estimates. Therefore, based on empirical data, there is no demonstrable need for using alternate approaches, such as the ceiling approach, to derive statistical estimates. The current practice of using general population databases and the multiplication rule provides valid estimates of the likelihood of occurrence of a DNA profile.
Forensic Application of Repetitive DNA Markers to the Species Identification of Animal Tissues
Authors: Guglich EA , Wilson PJ , White BN
Published: August 2015

Highly repetitive DNA markers have been used for determining the species origin of animal tissues in cases of illegal commercialization and poaching of game animals. This approach has been used in cases involving white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), moose (Alces alces) and black bear (Ursus americanus). Digesting the DNA with various restriction enzymes, agarose electrophoresis and staining with ethidium bromide revealed unique banding patterns for each species. These patterns have been used to distinguish meat from game animal species from commercial sources of meat and organs. Data are presented from two Ontario court cases that demonstrate the application of the procedure.
Identification of the Heme Compound Copurified with Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) from Bloodstains, a Major Inhibitor of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Amplification
Authors: Akane A , Matsubara K , Nakamura H , Takahashi S , Kimura K
Published: August 2015

The heme compound found in deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) extracted from bloodstains, which is regarded as a major inhibitor of polymerase chain reaction (PCR), was characterized in comparison with alkaline and acid hematin, histidine and ammonia hemochromogens, and globin and serum albumin hemochromogens digested by proteinase K. Alkaline and acid hematin were almost completely removed by phenol/chloroform treatment and ethanol precipitation, so as not to be copurified with DNA from the specimens. Spectrophotometric results indicated that the contaminant was likely to be the product of proteinase K digestion of some heme-blood protein complex, which was not completely extracted by organic solvents and remained in the ethanol precipitates of DNA. The results of polyacrylamide gradient gel electrophoresis and intensity of the inhibition of PCR suggested that the ligand of the contaminant was a somewhat large molecule, resistant to the proteolysis by proteinase K. The addition of bovine serum albumin to the reaction mixture prevented the inhibition of PCR by the heme compounds, probably by binding to the heme. This showed that the inhibition was not due to the irreversible inactivation of the enzyme.
Graduate Education in ‘Conventional’ Criminalistics: A Proposal and Reactions
Authors: Lindquist CA , Liu RH , Jenkins K , Yates L
Published: August 2015

‘Conventional’ criminalistics is defined in this study as: firearms and toolmark examination, microscopic examination of glass, soil, hair and fibers, fingerprint analysis and questioned documents examination. Since pre-employment access to graduate education programs and training opportunities in these conventional areas has traditionally been quite limited, a new graduate education model for conventional criminalistics was developed and presented to the membership of ASCLD for reaction. Based on a 51.8% response rate (N = 177) to a survey instrument, it was found that laboratory directors generally supported the model and believed that it could be appropriately linked to the 100 or so new hires projected annually by the directors for the conventional areas over the next five years.
The Reliability of Skull/Photograph Superimposition in Individual Identification
Authors: Austin-Smith D , Maples WR
Published: August 2015

The accuracy of video superimposition methods for identifying unknown human skulls was examined. Three identified human skulls were each compared to 97 lateral view and 98 frontal view “mug shot” photographs using two television cameras, an electronic signal mixer, and a video monitor. The skulls were not from individuals represented by the photographs. All comparisons were done without using anterior dentition.

The results found that 9.6% of the lateral view and 8.5% of the frontal view superimpositions were classified as a consistent fit based on the criteria that were identified. The incidence of false matches was reduced to 0.6% of the sample when a frontal view and lateral view photograph of the same individual were both compared to one skull. It was concluded that without anterior dentition, skull/photograph superimposition is reliable when two or more photographs, clearly depicting the facial features from different angles, are used in the comparison.
Pedophiles' Ratings of Adult and Child Photographs Using a Semantic Differential
Authors: Hambridge JA
Published: August 2015

Recent knowledge of the widespread extent of child sexual abuse and its consequences has led to an increasing interest in the understanding and treatment of perpetrators. This study examined a group of pedophiles in an English Special Hospital to determine possible characteristics that make children attractive and adults unattractive to them, using Repertory Grid technique and Semantic Differential. A small number of significant findings suggest that pedophiles may perceive some children and women in an unusual way. The large number of insignificant findings are discussed with reference to the sensitivity of the instrument; the pedophiles' desire to give socially acceptable answers; and subject characteristics of low IQ and “psychopathic disorder.” Future directions for research are suggested.
Pop-Rock Music as Precipitating Cause in Youth Suicide
Authors: Litman RE , Farberow NL
Published: August 2015

The plaintiffs in a law suit alleged that the heavy metal rock band Judas Priest, and its publisher CBS, were liable for damages to two youths who shot themselves after listening to the band's album. Crucial issues included “proximate cause” and “precipitating cause” in suicide, and the alleged role of subliminal messages. The judge ruled that although the “heavy metal” music might have had a toxic influence, the sounds and words are protected by the free speech first amendment. The influence of subliminal messages on behavior is unproven. There were many other elements in the personalities and situations of the victims to account for their self-destructive behavior.
GC Quantitative Determination of Illicit LSD
Authors: Ripani L , Schiavone S , Garofano L
Published: August 2015

Several methods are used for the determination of LSD in forensic science casework samples. One of these involving a shift in UV absorption maximum is considered too nonspecific to provide unequivocal confirmation of the presence of LSD. Currently, HPLC methods using fluorescence detectors are recommended for quantification and capillary GC/MS is considered a good technique for the qualitative identification of the drug. In this work we demonstrate the possibility of using capillary GC for the quantitative determination of LSD since this method is equally sensitive but surely more flexible and rapid than the HPLC ones.
Computer Enhancement of Evidence Through Background Noise Suppression
Authors: Dalrymple BE , Menzies T
Published: August 2015

The use of computers to enhance evidence began more than twenty years ago [1] and first came to the authors' attention in 1977 [2,3], although significant success was achieved through image processing as early as 1974. Today, affordable software packages containing many programs are available. These programs may occasionally be used to advantage on weak or obstructed evidence [4,5]. Various terms have been used to describe these procedures, including “computer enhancement” and “image processing.” An accurate description of these procedures as used by the authors would be “the optimization of signal to noise ratio.” This signal optimization is achieved largely as a result of two factors. First, the digitization of the image affords the operator far greater control over each component of the image than is possible with a photographic (analogue) image. Second, the computer has the ability to discriminate between 256 separate values of gray, from black (0) to white (255), in contrast to approximately 32 separate values perceived by the human eye. Programs of immediate utility, comprising but a small part of the software package, will be described and illustrated.
Delayed Fatal Hemothorax Due to Traumatic Carotid Dissection: A Case Report of a Previously Unreported Cause of Death
Authors: Kaplan JA
Published: August 2015

A unique case of delayed fatal hemothorax in a 12-year-old girl resulting from atypical dissection of a traumatic carotid aneurysm is reported, due to occult neck trauma received in a sledding accident which occurred one week prior to death. Aspects of traumatic carotid dissection and forensic implications of delayed presentation of such findings in the setting of occult trauma are discussed.
Charles C. Fulton (1900–1992), Microcrystal Test Pioneer
Authors: Evans HK
Published: August 2015

Charles C. Fulton was a pioneer in the development of non-aqueous media for microcrystal tests for drugs. His career commenced in the “Untouchable” era of Prohibition and his record of publications began when forensic science literature as such was non-existent. His efforts in drug identification lead him to develop many new reagent media, keep pace with the rapidly expanding number of drugs in the post-war era, and contribute his science to combatting international drug trade by identifying opium sources for the newly created United Nations Secretariat. He authored Modern Microcrystal Tests for Drugs, a text still used in many forensic science laboratories, in 1969, before retiring to pursue eclectic interests including publishing on archeoastronomy, particularly of the Maya.
A Decade of Train-Pedestrian Fatalities: The Charleston Experience
Authors: Cina SJ , Koelpin JL , Nichols CA , Conradi SE
Published: August 2015

Although the cause of death is rarely in doubt in train-pedestrian fatalities, the manner of death is often unclear. The distinction between accident and suicide can only be made after careful evaluation of the history, scene investigation, autopsy findings, and toxicologic data. A retrospective analysis of 25 consecutive train-pedestrian fatalities investigated by our office between 1982 and 1992 is reported.

The victims were predominantly healthy, young males. All but one person died at the scene. The cause of death was massive blunt trauma in 88% of the cases. In one case, the sole injury was decapitation. A tissue or blood ethanol level greater than 99 mg/dL was detected in 80% of the cases. A total of 60% of the cases involved persons likely to have been sitting or lying across the railroad tracks; all but one of these victims were intoxicated. The manner of death was determined to be accidental in 92% of our cases.

Decapitation by a moving train is an injury highly suggestive of suicide. Massive blunt trauma, especially in the setting of ethanol intoxication, was highly associated with accidental death. Toxicologic analysis is essential in discriminating willful suicide from alcohol-induced incapacitation resulting in accidental death. Homicide, disguised as an accident or suicide, must be ruled out in all cases. Accurate determination of the manner of death is an important issue regarding civil litigation and dispersal of insurance benefits.
Differentiation of Truthful and Deceptive Criminal Suspects in Behavior Analysis Interviews
Authors: Horvath F , Jayne B , Buckley J
Published: August 2015

The Behavior Analysis Interview© (BAI) is a commonly used procedure designed to assist investigators in distinguishing between suspects who are concealing their involvement in a criminal event (deceptive) from those who are not (truthful). During a BAI a protocol of questions is asked and suspects' verbal responses and accompanying nonverbal behaviors and attitudinal characteristics are assessed. Based on this assessment the likelihood of involvement in the criminal event is determined.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness with which trained evaluators were able to distinguish between truthful and deceptive suspects undergoing BAIs. Sixty videotaped interviews, 30 of truthful and 30 of deceptive suspects, were observed by four evaluators, each of whom independently scored suspect's behaviors and attitudes and judged the suspect's truthfulness. The results showed that, excluding inconclusive decisions, evaluators' average accuracy on truthful suspects was 91% and on deceptive suspects, 80%. Suspects' status did not affect confidence of evaluators' decisions but confidence was greater when correct as opposed to incorrect calls were made. Deceptive suspects manifested “theoretically” predicted behaviors and attitudes of “deceptiveness” to a significantly greater degree than did truthful suspects. The BAI appears to be useful for investigative purposes in order to differentiate between suspects who are concealing involvement in a criminal offense from those who are not.
Asbestos Exposure and Cancerphobia
Authors: Perr IN
Published: August 2015

In 48 cases of claims of psychic injury due to asbestos exposure, seven were diagnosed as “cancerphobia.” Cancerphobia is a concept primarily used in personal injury cases with little support in the medical community. Analysis of standards for phobia indicates that the term is inappropriate for such legal claims. Phobic reactions are avoidant reactions with panic or intense anxiety on exposure to the phobic stimulus. The cases reviewed indicate lack of psychiatric symptomatology, lack of conformance to accepted standards, and insufficient attention to history—medical and otherwise. This clinical review supports the contention of Simon that cancerphobia is not a credible classification. Skepticism is merited where potential damage awards are limited by minimal physical findings with resultant emphasis on claims of illness phobia, an example being exposure to a toxic substance like asbestos, which may be followed, but not necessarily so, by a variety of adverse consequences. Professional persons should be alert to the misuse of medical concepts in such cases.
Use of Alternative Light Source Illumination in Bite Mark Photography
Authors: Golden GS
Published: August 2015

Recent investigation regarding the optical properties of human skin has lead to studies measuring autofluoresence, absorption, and reflectance of monochromatic light during exposure both in vitro and in vivo environments. The Stokes Shift deviation in absorbed and reflected light energy that occurs when skin is illuminated by 450 nanometer visible blue light can produce an augmentation in the appearance of pattern injuries when viewed through colored blocking filters. This paper demonstrates a comparison between photographic appearances of several bitemarks inflicted on living and decreased persons to determine the corroborability and usefulness of fluorescent versus full spectrum visibility of bitemark pattern injuries.
Deduction of the Order of Sexual Assaults by DNA Analysis of Two Condoms
Authors: Wegel JG , Herrin G
Published: August 2015

Differential DNA extraction procedures were performed on two condoms found at a rape scene. One of the condoms was recovered intact (A), while the second condom (B) had apparently ruptured during the alleged attack. Two related suspects (cousins 1 & 2) were identified as the potential semen donors. Condom B contained DNA from the female and from one of the suspects. Condom A contained DNA from the suspect identified on condom B and from an unidentified individual. The presence of DNA from suspect 2 on both condoms led to the deduction that his sexual activity preceded that of the unidentified suspect. The ability to determine such a sequence of events using DNA typing is unusual.
Significant Fiber Evidence Recovered from the Clothing of a Homicide Victim After Exposure to the Elements for Twenty-Nine Days
Authors: Spencer R
Published: August 2015

An adhesive tape lint removal roller was used to isolate fibers from a homicide victim's clothing that had been exposed to the elements for twenty-nine days. Comparison microscopy, microspectrophotometry, and infrared analysis were used to compare recovered fibers to known fibers obtained from the suspect's shirt and the car in which it was believed the homicide occurred. Fibers recovered from the victim's clothing included specimens that were indistinguishable from fibers constituting the suspect's shirt, and others that were indistinguishable from the three distinct types of fibers comprising the upholstery, carpeting, and trunk liner of the car. The distribution of fibers on the various garments helped corroborate the crime scenario.
Death Investigation After the Destruction of Evidence
Authors: Danto BL , Streed T
Published: August 2015

Unavailable in the literature is any reference to an investigation of death after evidence has been destroyed. In this presentation two firearms and the bullet were melted after the death was certified as a suicide. A team of investigators conducted a psychological autopsy as well as shot patterns to determine the distance from the gun muzzle to the head to determine whether or not the wound was a contact type. The resolution of the case is discussed and the factor of local politics and case prominance in the media is reviewed.
Soot as an Indicator in Fire Investigations: Physical and Chemical Analyses
Authors: Pinorini MT , Lennard CJ , Margot P , Dustin I , Furrer P
Published: August 2015

The possibility of determining the combustion products (or accelerants) at the seat of a fire by the analysis of corresponding soot samples was investigated. Twenty liquid fuels (principally petroleum derivatives) and twelve plastic materials (from seven different polymer groups) were individually burned over one hour under controlled laboratory conditions. The soot produced was collected on glass plates and subsequently submitted to a sequence of physical and chemical analyses. Twelve casework samples (soot deposits on glass fragments collected at the fire scene) and five control samples (blind trials prepared in the laboratory) were submitted to the same analytical procedure. A total of 49 soot samples were considered.

Macroscopic (35× magnification) and microscopic (TEM) studies were conducted on each soot sample. Digitized micrographs were processed in order to obtain certain physical parameters serving to characterize the size and form of the soot aggregates: perimeter, surface area, circularity and principal surface moments ratio. These data were transformed and used as variables for a discriminant analysis carried out with an SPSS program. Furthermore, the soot aggregates were characterized by their fractal dimension.

The chemical composition of the soot samples was explored using three chromatographic methods: GC-FID, GC-MS, and pyrolysis-GC. Two studies were conducted: a comparison of the total chromatographic profiles obtained by GC-FID and pyrolysis-GC, and a comparison based upon qualitative and semi-quantitative analyses of 11 polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH's) in order to determine the value of these compounds as potential markers for accelerants used at the start of a fire.

The combination of physical and chemical parameters permitted the differentiation of most of the laboratory-prepared soot samples. The discriminating power was higher for the chemical analyses, with soot samples resulting from the combustion of plastic materials being the easiest to identify. Microscopy nevertheless provided interesting information concerning specific soot forms or elements. The combined results obtained by the analytical methods employed permitted the construction of a dichotomic table that can be used for the classification of soot samples taken from the scene of a fire. Additional research is required before such techniques can be routinely applied in casework.
Sex Typing of Forensic DNA Samples Using Male- and Female-Specific Probes
Authors: Naito E , Dewa K , Yamanouchi H , Kominami R
Published: August 2015

Forensic DNA samples have been examined to ascertain the feasibility of a sex-typing procedure that we have recently developed. This uses two sets of primers complementary to the DXZ4 and SRY genes for polymerase chain reaction (PCR). PCR target in the DXZ4, an 80-bp sequence within the 130-bp fragment specific to females, is generated from inactive chromosome X by the DNA digestion with a methylation-sensitive restriction enzyme, HpaII. Therefore, the DXZ4 amplification and subsequent agarose gel electrophoresis detect the 80-bp fragment from female DNA. On the other hand, the SRY probe identifies a male-specific sequence on chromosome Y. Testing DNAs from fresh Turner's blood and from postmortem tissues exhibited band-signals confirming the sex identification. Degraded DNAs isolated from severely decomposed specimens were also identifiable when high-molecular-weight DNA was isolated before the assay. This demonstrates the usefulness of this method in forensic identification.
Sensitive Identification of Hemoglobin in Bloodstains from Different Species by High Performance Liquid Chromatography with Combined UV and Fluorescence Detection
Authors: Andrasko J , Rosén B
Published: August 2015

HPLC with reversed phase large pore columns (5 µm particle size, C4-phase, 300Å pore size) has been used to analyze extracts from bloodstains. Bloodstains from humans as well as various animals often encountered in forensic casework have been investigated. Bloodstains from common wild animals as well as domestic animals could be distinguished by this technique with one exception—dog and wolf. The use of fluorescence detection increased the sensitivity of the method. For human bloodstains, the detection limit was about 1 to 2 nanoliter blood.

The method has the advantage of simplicity, speed and sensitivity for use in forensic practice.
Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Identification of the Phenylalkylamine Alkaloids of Khat Using a Chiral Solvating Agent
Authors: Dawson BA , Black DB , Lavoie A , LeBelle MJ
Published: August 2015

Nuclear magnetic resonance was used for the identification of three major alkaloids in dried leaves of the khat plant, Catha edulis. Proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectra of plant extracts confirmed the presence of cathinone, norpseudoephedrine and norephedrine. The subsequent addition of a chiral solvating agent, (S)-(−)-1,1′-bi-2-naphthol, to these NMR solutions enabled the identification of the various enantiomers of these alkaloids. Both the (S)- and (R)- enantiomers of cathinone were detected. The results from the determination of the alkaloid ratios in the dried plant material by the NMR method are compared to those obtained by a previously developed gas chromatographic method.
Morphologic Variations of the External Arcuate Nucleus in Infants Dying of SIDS: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Gilson TP , Balko MG , Blisard KS , Taylor KL
Published: August 2015

The external arcuate nucleus (EAN), located in the ventral medulla, is studied in 24 infants dying of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and 15 age-matched controls to identify differences in morphology in this region, thought to be involved in respiratory regulation. Significant differences are noted in EAN neuronal density, percentage of back-to-back neurons and volume of the EAN relative to the adjacent pyramids. These changes may be useful in evaluating sudden infant death.
Food-Induced Lowering of Blood-Ethanol Profiles and Increased Rate of Elimination Immediately After a Meal
Authors: Jones AW , Jönsson KÅ
Published: August 2015

In a two-part crossover study, ten healthy men drank a moderate dose of ethanol (0.80 g/kg) in the morning after an overnight fast or immediately after breakfast. The breakfast consisted of orange juice (150 mL), fruit yogurt (250 mL), two cheese sandwiches, one boiled egg, and one cup of coffee with milk and sugar. Ethanol was determined in venous blood at various times after the start of drinking by headspace gas chromatography. All subjects felt less intoxicated when alcohol was ingested after breakfast compared with drinking on an empty stomach. The peak BAC (± SD) was 67 ± 9.5 mg/dL (ethanol + food) compared with 104 ± 16.5 mg/dL when the drinking occurred after an overnight fast (P < 0.001). The mean area under the alcohol concentration-time profile (0→6h) was 398 ± 56 mg/dL × h in the fasting state compared with 241 ± 34 mg/dL × h when subjects drank alcohol after the meal (P < 0.001). The time required to metabolize the dose of ethanol was approximately two hours shorter after the subjects had eaten breakfast. These results suggest that food in the stomach before drinking not only leads to a lowering of the peak BAC and diminishes the feelings of intoxication, but also boosts the rate of ethanol metabolism. A food-induced increase in the rate of disposal of ethanol was also confirmed when subjects ate a meal 5 h after drinking, that is, when the postabsorptive phase of ethanol metabolism was well established. The mean rate of disappearance of alcohol from blood was increased by between 36 and 50%.
Identification of a Homicide Victim by a Casio Data Bank Watch
Authors: Costello J , Zugibe FT
Published: August 2015

A positive identification of a homicide victim was made possible by observing an inconspicuous Casio watch worn by the deceased.

Identification of deceased individuals are usually made by fingerprints or dental matching, visual means, DNA studies, X-rays of other bodily structures, tattoos, etc. When all of these methods fail and no suspects are known, medical examiners are caught between Charybdis and Scilla. This assumes greater importance in cases of homicides. It is the purpose of this paper to present a homicide case in which an identification was made by observing an inconspicuous object, a small Casio watch worn by the deceased.