bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A First Assessment of the Reliability of an Improved Scent Identification Line-up
Authors: Schoon GAA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To properly evaluate different forensic techniques, it is important to know how reliable these different techniques are. The reliability of scent identification line-ups is unknown. The purpose of this study was to describe, and employ, a reliability testing method for scent identifications using trained police dogs and a novel scent identification procedure. Two kinds of experiments were prepared: suspect = perpetrator experiments, and suspect ≳ perpetrator experiments. Six dog/handler teams participated in 10 experiments, five of each kind. The reliability of an identification, or the diagnostic ratio, is the percentage correct identification in suspect = perpetrator experiments divided by the percentage false identification of the suspect in suspect ≳ perpetrator experiments. Factors that influence the reliability of scent identifications are discussed, and the results of the scent identifications are compared with recent reliability estimates of other forensic techniques.
Application of Solid-Phase Microextraction to the Recovery of Organic Explosives
Authors: Paul Kirkbride K , Klass G , Pigou PE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The application of solid-phase microextraction to the recovery of residues of organic explosives by headspace sampling is discussed. It was found that the technique was rapid and simple. Polydimethylsiloxane and polyacrylate resin were examined as adsorption phases and the latter was found to be more effective. It was found that non-volatile explosives (PETN, RDX, and TNT) should be extracted at about 100°. Acceptable limits of detection were achieved using bench top quadrupole mass spectrometry and short extraction times (about 30 min). Increasing the extraction times to many hours resulted in significantly enhanced detection. Desorption of PETN from the solid phase was found to induce some decomposition of the explosive, but the technique was still valuable for the analysis of this compound.
Characterization of Fibers by Raman Microprobe Spectroscopy
Authors: Keen IP , White GW , Fredericks PM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A set of fibers, mainly synthetic, has been examined by Raman microprobe spectroscopy. It was found that high quality spectra, requiring no sample preparation, are easy to obtain and that fibers with different molecular structure have very different Raman spectra. Fluorescence was occasionally a problem with excitation at 632.8 nm, but could be significantly reduced by using a semiconductor laser emitting at 780 nm. Fibers of the same polymer type from different manufacturers have Raman spectra which are only slightly different but which could be distinguished by the multivariate statistical technique of principal components analysis (PCA). Dyed fibers gave spectra with bands due to the polymer, but also with intense bands due to the dye, because of the high Raman cross-section of dye molecules. Extraction of the dye, followed by a spectral subtraction procedure allowed separate spectra of the polymer and the dye to be obtained.
The Contribution of Trace Elements from Smokeless Powder to Post Firing Residues
Authors: Miyauchi H , Kumihashi M , Shibayama T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The smokeless powders in 22 kinds of ammunitions seized from one of the Japanese gang groups were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X-ray microanalysis (SEM/EDX). Copper(Cu), sulfur(S), potassium(K), silicon(Si), aluminum(Al), calcium(Ca), iron(Fe), chlorine(Cl), and barium(Ba) were detected. Cu was found in all samples. One sample contained a high amount of Ba. One part of the burnt smokeless powder was found to contain Cu, K, Ca, Fe and S, the other part contained Cu, Fe, and zinc(Zn). It has been reported that the elements in gunshot residues originate from a bullet and/or a primer. However, this demonstrates that smokeless powder could be the source of some of the elements detected.
Differentiation of Asphalt and Smoke Condensates from Liquid Petroleum Distillates Using GC/MS
Authors: Lentini JJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method of comparing selected ion profiles of fire debris extracts for the purpose of differentiating background residues produced by burning asphalt from liquid petroleum distillates is discussed. Passive headspace concentration (ASTM E 1412) has the capacity to fractionate asphalt condensates, resulting in the production of chromatographic patterns remarkably similar to fuel oils. By examining the alkenes produced when asphalt burns, the smoke condensates can be differentiated from kerosene or diesel fuel.
A Physical Method for Separating Spermatozoa from Epithelial Cells in Sexual Assault Evidence
Authors: Chen J , Kobilinsky L , Wolosin D , Shaler R , Baum H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The analysis of genetic markers for the purpose of individualization of semen specimens is extremely important in cases of sexual abuse and assault. The serological analysis of sexual assault evidence can sometimes be complicated because stains are often composed of a mixture of spermatozoa, vaginal epithelial cells and white and red blood cells. A filtration method has been developed to cleanly separate spermatozoa from epithelial cells based upon differences in size and shape. Nylon mesh filters of the appropriate pore size can be used to separate the smaller oval shaped spermatozoal cells from the larger and flatter epithelial cells. The former pass freely through the membrane while the latter are retained on the filter.
In this study, cell separation was demonstrated by (a) microscopic observation of stained cells, (b) amplified fragment length polymorphism analysis of DNA obtained from separated cells. The results of these analyses indicate that: (1) Approximately 70% of spermatozoa in the mixed cell sample will penetrate the 10 µm pore size filter, (2) Only about 1–2% of intact epithelial cells will do so, and (3) A small number of nuclei from spontaneously lysed epithelial cells will cross the filter. Experimental results using mixtures of spermatozoa and vaginal epithelial cells prepared in different ratios support the conclusion that the filtration process is an efficient and reliable method to separate spermatozoa from epithelial cells in casework specimens for subsequent DNA analysis.
Sampling Protocols for the Detection of Smokeless Powder Residues Using Capillary Electrophoresis
Authors: MacCrehan WA , Smith KD , Rowe WF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Present techniques for the detection of gunshot residue rely primarily metallic primer components such as lead, barium and antimony. With the advent of reformulated primers that reduce or eliminate these elements, new methods for the detection of organic residue compounds will be needed. Micellar electrokinetic capillary electrophoresis (MECE) is one technique that has been successfully applied to the analysis of these smokeless powder residue compounds.
Protocols for the recovery of the organic residue components under a variety of sampling conditions were evaluated and improved for MECE analysis. The collection of residue samples where external contaminants such as grease or blood were present on the residue substrate were investigated using both tape lifts and solvent swab protocols. In addition, residue component recovery using supercritical fluid extraction techniques was preliminarily evaluated for samples contaminated with blood.
Comparative Determination of 2-Carbomethoxy-3-Alkyloxy- and Heteroaroyloxy-Substituted Tropanes in Illicit South American Cocaine Using Capillary Gas Chromatography-Single Ion Monitoring
Authors: Casale JF , Moore JM , Odeneal NG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Methodology is presented for the isolation and comparative determination of 16 alkyloyl and 2 heteroaroyl ecgonine methyl esters in illicit cocaine samples. These trace-level alkaloids, five of which are reported for the first time, were partially isolated from cocaine using alumina column chromatography and recrystallization and determined using capillary gas chromatography-mass spectrometry using selected ion monitoring. Acetoxy-, propionoyl-, isobutyroyl-, butyroyl-, 2-methylbutyroyl-, isovaleroyl-, valeroyl-, senecioyl-, trans-4-hexenoyl-, tigloyl-, hexanoyl-, 3′-furanoyl-, trans-2-hexenoyl-, 2′-furanoyl-, trans-3-heptenoyl-, cis-, trans-; trans-, cis-; and trans-, trans-2,4-hexadienoyl- ecgonine methyl esters were detected at levels less than 1 × 10−5 % (w/w relative to cocaine).
Behavior and the Law Reconsidered: Psychological Syndromes and Profiles
Authors: Edwards CN 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Recently, a new concept of behavior and the law has emerged which looks beyond the defendant's satisfaction of the elements which define the charge. This formulation, which considers not simply the objective facts but motive, intent, and circumstance, has marked a legal shift from diminished capacity to diminished responsibility. Still in evolution, this trend has challenged the relationship between law and the behavioral sciences, and prompted serious reconsideration of the role of each. This paper examines the landmarks of the movement, considers its implications, and looks to the future.
Competence to Stand Trial: Clinician Reliability and the Role of Offense Severity
Authors: Rosenfeld B , Ritchie K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
As research strategies for studying competence to stand trial evolve, interest in the decision-making process of clinicians and the factors that may influence the clinical process has grown. This study assesses the reliability of clinical opinions regarding the basis for competence decisions and the influence that severity of the offense has upon the clinical determinations of competence. One-hundred eighty-eight criminal defendants in an outpatient forensic clinic were evaluated by pairs of clinicians (psychiatrists and clinical psychologists). Each clinician was asked to complete a questionnaire regarding the defendant's overall degree of competence on a 0 to 10 rating scale, ability to understand charges and proceedings and ability to assist in one's defense, and the likelihood that the defendant was malingering. Results demonstrated a high degree of reliability not only in clinical determinations of competence (agreement in 187 of 188 cases), but in estimates of overall degree of competence and the basis for findings of competence or incompetence (e.g., the Dusky criteria). Misdemeanor defendants were more likely to be found incompetent to stand trial. However, degree of competence was only associated with offense severity for defendants found incompetent to stand trial. There was no relationship between these variables for competent defendants. These results suggest that clinicians may require a higher degree of competence for defendants charged with more serious offenses, although this process may not apply equally to competent and incompetent defendants. Furthermore, conducting competence interviews jointly appears to increase the concordance of competence opinions.
Nocturnal Wandering and Violence: Review of a Sleep Clinic Population
Authors: Guilleminault C , Leger D , Philip P , Ohayon MM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Sleep consists of two complex states—NREM and REM sleep—and disturbances of the boundaries between the states of sleep and wakefulness may result in violence. We investigated our population for reports of violence associated with sleep. REM behavior disorder is rarely associated with injury to the sufferer or others. NREM sleep related nocturnal wandering associated with self-inflicted injuries has variable etiologies. In the elderly, it is associated with dementia. In young individuals, it may be associated with mesio-temporal or mesio-frontal foci and an indication of a complex partial seizure. It also may be related to abnormal alertness and is associated with excessive daytime sleepiness, micro-sleeps, and hypnagogic hallucinations in sleep disorders such as narcolepsy or sleep disordered breathing.
Chilean Population Data on Ten PCR-Based Loci
Authors: Jorquera H , Budowle B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Allele frequencies for ten PCR-based loci LDLR, GYPA, HBGG, D7S8, Gc, HLA-DQA1, D1S80, CSF1PO, TPOX and THO1 were determined in unrelated Chileans from Santiago. All loci except HBGG and THO1 meet Hardy-Weinberg expectations. There is little evidence for association of alleles among the ten loci. Only 3 out of 45 pairwise comparisons demonstrated departures from independence. The allelic frequency data are similar to other comparable data.
Two Quantitative Methods for Rib Seriation in Human Skeletal Remains
Authors: Hoppa R , Saunders S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Accurate rib sequencing is of importance to both forensic anthropologists and human osteologists, but until recently there have been few traits used to aid in the seriation of ribs within a human burial. This study examines two measurements (head to tubercle length and superior costotransverse ligament crest height) for the purpose of aiding rib identification and seriation in human skeletal remains. A sample of 344 ribs from 43 individuals from the 19th century Anglican Church cemetery of St. Thomas in Belleville, Ontario were used for the current study. While the head to tubercle length appeared unreliable for rib seriation, the superior costo-transverse ligament crest height may provide an alternative technique for assessing rib sequence. More importantly though, the method provides a basis on which the identification of the central ribs can be made.
Comparison of Properties of Adhesive Tapes, Tabs, and Liquids Used for the Collection of Gunshot Residue and Other Trace Materials for SEM Analysis
Authors: Wrobel HA , Millar JJ , Kijek M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of adhesive tapes, tabs and liquids is a simple and cost-effective method for sampling gunshot residues and other trace or particulate materials prior to analysis in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The adhesive material is placed directly onto a standard stub (specimen mount) used in scanning electron microscopy. The use of these prepared stubs can decrease sample preparation and collection time as well as reducing the risk of sample loss.
In this study, a number of adhesives are examined for their suitability in the areas of elemental composition, adhesive properties, and adhesive stability under vacuum and an electron beam.
A Specimen Positioning Device for Dental Radiographic Identification—Image Geometry Considerations
Authors: Goldstein M , Sweet DJ , Wood RE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Preventative dental treatment has reduced caries incidence and thereby rendered dental identification, in caries-free individuals, more difficult. An alternate method comparing spatial relationships of dental structures in digitized superimposed antemortem and postmortem radiographs has been previously developed. This paper examined the limitations of this technique and demonstrates a positioning device suitable for reproducing antemortem radiographic image geometry. The paper also examined three specific aspects of image geometry namely horizontal angulation, vertical angulation and focal film distance. Deviations in horizontal angulations between antemortem and postmortem radiographs by as little as 5 degrees makes identification difficult. Changes in vertical angulation or focal-film distance had no affect. This procedure, and the positioning device used to accurately replicate antemortem image geometry is an economical, easy to use adjunct to current methods of dental identification.
Technique for Dissecting the Cervical Vertebral Column
Authors: Berzlanovich AM , Sim E , Muhm MA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Dissecting the cervical vertebral column usually is presumed in the course of a routine autopsy to be difficult and time-consuming. Additionally, most techniques described in the literature lead to extensive mutilation of the corpse. We present a method which can be performed quickly and is learned easily. The major advantage of our technique is that the integrity of the corpse, in particular of the facial surface, is maintained.
Urine Drug Testing for Social Service Agencies in Nova Scotia, Canada
Authors: Fraser AD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In Nova Scotia Canada, governmental authorities expressed concern in the late 1980s about the adverse effects of drug use by parents on the welfare of their children. Since 1991, parents with a history of drug abuse may be required to submit to urine drug and alcohol testing when ordered by the Family Courts of this province. The objective of this paper is to present this drug testing program and the results of drug testing on 125 clients from 1994–1996. Urine specimens were collected in the parents' residence by a nurse and transferred directly to the laboratory by the collector or a courier. Specimens were screened by immunoassay and TLC followed by GC-MS confirmation. Results were sent directly to the social worker. In the 3,613 urine specimens analyzed, 50.2% of specimens were negative, 45.6% were positive for one or more drug/metabolite and 4.2% of specimens were dilute (creatinine &lt;25 mg/dL). The distribution of positive results were: cannabinoids (11.5%), cocaine metabolite (5.0%), benzodiazepines (14.5%), codeine/morphine (7.1%), codeine (6.6%), diphenhydramine (2.2%) and ethyl alcohol (1.6%). Drug testing has been considered a success by these agencies since testing provides an objective indication of recent drug use and the overall prevalence of drug use in this drug abusing population has reduced from 100% to &lt;50%.
Determining Sodium Azide Concentration in Blood by Ion Chromatography
Authors: Kruszyna R , Smith RP , Kruszyna H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We describe a simple method for measuring sodium azide concentrations in aliquots of blood and other tissues. Aliquots are acidified, converting azide to volatile hydrazoic acid (HN3) which is then trapped in sodium hydroxide. We analyze the resulting aliquots by ion chromatography, using a sodium tetraborate eluent and suppressed conductivity detection. The method is sensitive to at least 100 ng/mL.
Arrow Damage to Textiles—Analysis of Clothing and Bedding in Two Cases of Crossbow Deaths
Authors: Taupin JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Two cases of crossbow deaths involving analysis of damage to clothing and bedding are described. The distinctive characteristics of the damage examined in these cases indicate that there is merit in examining damage to clothing as well as wounds to the body in crossbow injuries. Clothing damage analysis may be especially useful if the body is badly decomposed or never recovered. Furthermore, damage to textiles may reflect a clearer geometry of the weapon than that of the associated wounding.
Three Case Studies in Forensic Entomology from Southern Italy
Authors: Introna F , Campobasso CP , Di Fazio A 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Three cases of forensic interest regarding the estimation of postmortem interval (PMI) by entomological data are presented. The three cases concerning criminal investigations were performed in Southern Italy by the Entomological Laboratory of the Institute of Forensic Medicine at the University of Bari. For each case the authors present a detailed description of the remains as observed at the crime scene and a description of the arthropods collected from the remains. The PMI estimation was based on comparison of data from autopsy reports (rate of decay), local environmental conditions (temperature, humidity, rainfall) and development times for the immature stages of each species of local arthropod and succession patterns. The collection of insects was performed at the discovery site and during autopsy procedures. In the first case a PMI of 5 to 8 days was established based on the presence of adult specimens of Saprinus aeneus (family Histeridae), and mature larvae of Chrysomya albiceps and Sarcophaga carnaria (3rd instar). In the second case, on the charred remains of a corpse, larvae of Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis (3rd instar) and Protophormia terraenovae (2nd instar) were observed in different developmental stages, as indicated, giving a PMI of 3 to 4 days based on entomological data. In the third case a PMI of 36 to 48 hours was defined from the evidence of Calliphora vicina 2nd instar on the two burnt bodies. In all cases the entomological evidence alone led to conclusions on PMI.
Seatbelt Injury to the Common Iliac Artery: Case Report
Authors: Dell'Erba A , Di Vella G , Giardino N 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In traffic accident victims, the seat belt syndrome is a well known injury which rarely involves the common iliac artery due to its posterior anatomical position and to protection by the pelvis. We report a case of blunt abdominal trauma related to the type of seat belt worn. The trauma provoked subintimal haemorrhaging of the left common iliac artery, without skeletal lesions or other visceral injuries. Correct diagnosis was delayed for three months after the crash, when an angiogram was performed to investigate disabling claudication and vascular pulse change in the left leg. This arterial injury could have been related to the association of two different types of force created during the crash (“compression/deceleration-type mechanism”) that might have produced shearing forces causing a vascular wall discontinuity and/or an intimal flap. The authors speculate that the vascular lesion was observed on the same (left) side as the fastening point of the seat belt (a lap-and-shoulder belt with a three-point attachment) where the shearing forces may have been most intense due to the junction between the lap strap and the diagonal shoulder belt.
Alleged Forgery of Sonography Report Leads to Elective Abortion of Late 23 Week-Old Fetus
Authors: Huxley AK , Andrew Sibley M 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In this case report, a very obese young woman who claimed to be 17 gestational weeks into pregnancy, sought an elective abortion. Upon dilation and curettage, the doctor assessed the fetal remains to be nearly 26 gestational weeks. After contacting local authorities, who turned the case over to the Office of the Medical Examiner, the doctor determined that the woman had apparently forged her sonography report from the radiology clinic. She was thus able to obtain an abortion at more than 23 gestational weeks. While abortion laws vary from state to state, most doctors are reluctant to perform an abortion on a woman so far into term, since serious medical complications may arise and fetal viability must be considered. This case history may demonstrate the importance of independent confirmation of gestational age prior to such a procedure.
Lacerations of the Hepatoduodenal Ligament, Pancreas and Duodenum in a Child due to Blunt Impact
Authors: deRoux SJ , Prendergast NC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Descriptions of the nature of pediatric injury as reported by parents and caretakers is frequently tainted, even fraudulent. We present here such a case of trauma incurred in the presence of a parent which resulted in hepatoduodenal ligament laceration with associated pancreatic and duodenal injuries, the certain result of severe blunt force abdominal trauma. These findings were at variance with the father's description of the events leading up to the child's untimely demise.
Fatal Embolization of Ball Portion of Starr-Edwards Aortic Valve Prosthesis
Authors: Reddy KK , Anders KH , Sathyavagiswaran L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report an unusual case of a Starr-Edwards aortic valve malfunction with fatal dislodgment and embolization of its ball portion to the distal abdominal aorta, just above the bifurcation, leading to sudden death. This case is unusual in that it is, to date, the longest time elapsed between valve placement and ball dislodgment.