bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sex Determination by Discriminant Function Analysis of the Petrous Portion of the Temporal Bone
Authors: Kalmey JK , Rathbun TA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Morphometric variables on the human petrous portion of the temporal bone can provide identification of sex in fragmented skeletal remains. The petrous frequently survives circumstances that cause skeletal fragmentation. Using discriminant function analysis of seven combinations of five variables, up to 74% accuracy can be obtained in determining sex from the petrous portion.
Thin-Layer Chromatography of Writing Inks—Quality Control Considerations
Authors: Lewis JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Quality control procedures for thin-layer chromotrography (TLC) are offered to increase reproducibility and dependability of results. During preparation of a TLC ink standard library, several types of inconsistencies were observed. Observations of more than 100 chromatograms of writing inks indicated the need for the institution of quality control procedures. Procedures were developed to ensure proper solvent selection, TLC plate selection, and proper photographic recording of TLC plates. Implementing quality control procedures in TLC enables the document examiner and forensic chemist to achieve these results.
Use of REMEDi HS in Emergency Toxicology for a Rapid Estimate of Drug Concentrations in Urine, Serum, and Gastric Samples
Authors: Ohtsuji M , Lai JS , Binder SR , Kondo T , Takayasu T , Ohshima T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The REMEDi HS is a broad spectrum drug identification system, designed for emergency toxicology screening and forensic applications. The total analysis time is about 20 min. The current library has 555 drugs and metabolites. The system has a software routine that uses an internal standard (IS) to perform quantitative analysis for target compounds when calibrators are available; further, response factors (RF) are supplied for a rapid estimate of drug concentrations when calibrators are unavailable. In the present study, the concentrations of six drugs (bromisovalum, ephedrine, hydroxyzine, diphenhydramine, ranitidine, and lidocaine) and a metabolite of lidocaine (glycinexylidide) were determined using both methods. The slopes of the regression lines between the rapid estimate method and the IS method were generally within 20% of unity, in agreement with the manufacturer's claim. Semiquantitative estimates based on RF also showed good agreement with results obtained using multipoint calibration. These estimates were sufficient for clinical differentiation of routine and toxic levels. Our study demonstrated that the REMEDi HS is particularly useful for a rapid estimate of drug concentrations in the samples from emergency cases when calibrators are not readily available. Our study also showed that this system can be used for the therapeutic monitoring of ranitidine, bromisovalum, lidocaine, and diphenhydramine.
Septic Tank Burial: Not Just Another Skeleton in the Closet
Authors: Lew EO , Bannach BG , Rodriguez WC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Backed-up toilets lead to the discovery of a skeleton in the septic tank. Our challenges began with the excavation of this unconventional grave and progressed through recovery and examination of the skeleton, determination of the cause and manner of death, and ultimately, identification of the victim. Main aspects of the septic tank system are summarized, including functional theory, physical design and components, and general comments on use and maintenance. We discuss some basic principles applicable to the excavation and examination of any human skeletal remains, and offer a general approach to identification of the decedent.
Identification of War Victims from Mass Graves in Croatia, Bosnia, and Herzegovina by the Use of Standard Forensic Methods and DNA Typing
Authors: Primorac D , Andelinovic S , Definis-Gojanovic M , Drmic I , Rezic B , Baden MM , Kennedy MA , Schanfield MS , Skakel SB , Lee HC 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The postmortem remains of sixty-one war victims were excavated from 6 mass graves in Bosnia and Herzegovina one and a half years after interment. Using standard identification methods, including the matching of medical and dental records, the recognition of distinguishing characteristics such as the use of clothing and belongings, and video superimposition, 35 persons were identified. For the remaining 26 persons identification efforts continue. DNA typing was performed at the HLA DQA1 locus and five PM system loci. Results from DNA typing were confirmed by other methods. DNA profiles of family members of 150 missing persons are now being developed using the 6 loci. These DNA profiles will then be compared with those generated from the bone and teeth remains of the unidentified victims.
DNA Typing and Blood Transfusion
Authors: Brauner P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
As the result of a traffic accident, a man was seriously injured. Investigators found him outside the vehicle he had presumably driven. He was taken to the hospital in an unconscious state and there received a number of blood transfusions.
Bloodstains found inside the car were collected and sent for comparison with a posttransfusion blood sample of the victim (suspect). As the car involved in the accident had been stolen, the police wished to ascertain whether there was a link between the suspect and the car. No other evidence, such as fingerprints, was found in the car. Furthermore, being unconscious, the suspect was unable to give a statement.
The bloodstains from the car and the blood of the victim were tested by conventional blood group assays and DNA (RFLP and PCR). By conventional blood group assays, the effects of the blood transfusion were seen. On the other hand, the effects of the transfusion were not at all evident in the DNA assays. The implications of these results are discussed.
Transfused blood, even in large quantities, did not alter the DNA profile of the recipient in this case.
The Importance of Thin Layer Chromatography in the Analysis of Reactive Dyes Released from Wool Fibers
Authors: Wiggins KG , Crabtree SR , March BM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Samples of reactively-dyed wool were obtained from a range of manufacturers and distributors and “digested” by alkaline hydrolysis to yield colored solutions. Results demonstrate that thin layer chromatographic analysis of reactive dyes yields important additional information, over and above that obtained from techniques such as comparison microscopy and visible light microspectrophotometry. Colored solutions obtained from single fibers were analyzed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and reproducible results were obtained from a range of fiber lengths.
Rodents, Human Remains, and North American Hantaviruses: Risk Factors and Prevention Measures for Forensic Science Personnel—a Review
Authors: Michael Fink T 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In 1993, a previously unrecognized hantavirus was identified as the cause for a severe form of respiratory distress later termed Hantavirus Pulmonary Syndrome (HPS). In the past two years, several distinct hantaviruses, of which many are pathogenic, have been found in rodent populations in the US. Rodents shed the virus in their saliva, urine, and feces. Humans usually become infected after inhaling either aerosolized droplets of urine or particulates contaminated with rodent excreta. Rodents, including those identified as hantavirus reservoirs, will often infest and disturb human remains. Forensic science personnel should recognize the potential HPS risks associated with rodent contaminated remains and consider using High Efficiency Particulate Air-filter respirators, disinfectants, and insecticides to minimize risks.
Visualization of a Restored Serial Number Using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM)
Authors: Mongan AL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The restoration of obliterated serial numbers by both chemical and physical means has been well documented in the field of forensic science. An interesting case of a severely obliterated serial number was submitted to our laboratory for restoration. Despite development with Fry's etchant, the visualization, documentation, and photography of the restored serial number proved difficult because of the deep “pock” type of obliteration. The scanning electron microscope was explored as a potential means for assisting in the examination of the restored serial number. The scanning electron microscope successfully provided a simple means for the visualization, documentation, and photography of the restored serial number.
Traffic Fatality Related to the Use of Methylenedioxymethamphetamine
Authors: Crifasi J , Long C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A recent traffic fatality has been attributed to the use of the drug methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). The deceased was a 29-year-old white male with no known history of drug abuse. Toxicological analysis detected MDMA and metabolite methylenedioxyamphetamine (MDA) in the blood, urine, and vitreous humor specimens submitted for analysis. The concentrations of MDMA in clotted blood, sodium fluoride-potassium oxalate anticoagulated blood, vitreous humor, and urine were 2.32 mg/L, 2.14 mg/L, 1.11 mg/L, and 118.8 mg/L, respectively. The concentrations of the metabolite MDA were less than 0.25 mg/L in blood and vitreous, and 3.86 mg/L in the urine.
Identification of Orthopedic Device Manufacturer
Authors: Ubelaker DH , Jacobs CH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Orthopedic devices recovered in association with skeletal remains offer information that can assist in identification. Frequently, surgical devices contain information that allow the identification of the manufacturer. Since March 1, 1993 a tracking system is in place that may allow the identification of the individual patient. A recent survey of the manufacturing companies results in summary information on the identification labels on products that allow them to be traced.
Homicidal Cardiac Lacerations in Children
Authors: Cohle SD , Hawley DA , Berg KK , Kiesel EL , Pless JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report six cases of intentionally inflicted cardiac laceration. The victims ranged in age from 9 weeks to 2 ½ years. Five victims were girls and in five cases the right atrium was lacerated. The left ventricle was lacerated in the other case. In the three cases with a confession, one victim each was struck with a fist, stomped, and kicked. Four patients had rib fractures, with at least two fractures in each case. Cardiac rupture from blunt trauma most commonly results from compression of the heart between the sternum and vertebral column, but may also occur from compression of the abdomen or legs, deceleration, blast injury, puncture of the heart by a fractured rib, and rupture through a resolving contusion. Accidentally acquired cardiac lacerations usually result from motor vehicle accidents or similarly severe forces. In children there are neither well documented cases of cardiac laceration nor of rib fractures from cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Cardiac lacerations, as with other types of severe trauma acquired at home, are almost never accidental.
Further Comments on the Estimation of Error Associated with the Gustafson Dental Age Estimation Method
Authors: Lucy D , Pollard AM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Many researchers in the field of forensic odontology have questioned the error estimates stated in Gustafson's [1] paper outlining the relationship between certain dental attributes and age. In a substantial re-working of Gustafson's data, Maples and Rice [2] corrected Gustafson's regression statistics and found that the error associated with the age estimate was nearly double that claimed by Gustafson. We offer another statistical analysis of Gustafson's data and find that the errors calculated by Maples and Rice were also in error, being about a year too small. We give a formula for what we believe to be the correct treatment of errors in such cases, but conclude by observing that there is an urgent need for a more rigorous study of the traits first tabulated by Gustafson.
Using the Video Spectral Comparator in the Comparison of Carbon Copies and Carbon Paper Impressions
Authors: Moryan D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Provided with overwritten carbon paper images and one carbon copied document produced by the carbon paper, decipherment of the overwritten entries can be made. A technique using the Video Spectral Comparator with the Image Integration Comparator can reveal overwritten entries by storing and superimposing images of the carbon paper and carbon copied document.
Optical Analyses of Eyeglass Lens Fragments and the Unexpected Detection of Oral Sperm in a Homicide Case
Authors: Schwartz EA , Vallaro KE , Pool TM , Adamo RA , Taff ML , Boglioli LR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A homicide case in which intact spermatozoa were found in the oral cavity of the deceased forty days after his disappearance is reported. The victim's partially frozen body was found outdoors in a wooded area of upstate New York during the month of January. During a subsequent investigation, pieces of eyeglass lens fragments and bloodstains were found in the suspect's house and vehicle. Chemical and optical analyses of the lens fragments are presented as well as results of the serological tests.
DNA Analysis of Dental Pulp to Link Incinerated Remains of Homicide Victim to Crime Scene
Authors: Sweet DJ , Sweet CHW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Teeth endure postmortem degradation and extreme changes in ambient temperature and pressure better than most human tissues. This ability to resist deterioration allows the teeth to be studied as a method of establishing the identity of a decedent. Additionally, dental hard tissues, and in some instances soft tissues, may provide investigators with other sources of forensic data. In this case, a female homicide victim was transported to a location where her remains were burned. The high temperatures of a gasoline fire effectively incinerated the body precluding deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) analysis from conventional sites. However, most of the teeth survived the conflagration. They were used to identify the victim. Additionally, the dental pulps were found to be an excellent source of high molecular weight genomic DNA. This proved to be an effective method to link the victim's body to biological evidence recovered from the site of the murder.
A Review of Death Investigator's Hand Book: A Field Guide to Crime Scene Processing, Forensic Evaluations, and Investigative Techniques
Authors: Reichardt GJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This hand book is divided into three main sections: Crime Scene, Investigative, and Scientific. Each covers nearly every topic imaginable in outline form in a series of subsections. To compile this data the author has drawn from 304 sources cited in the bibliog- raphy.
Diameter of Cranial Gunshot Wounds as a Function of Bullet Caliber
Authors: Berryman HE , Smith OC , Symes SA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Determination of bullet caliber becomes increasingly important in homicides where the bullet is missing. In cases with entrance wounds to bone that are circular and well defined it may be tempting to measure the defect and offer suggestions about bullet caliber. For this reason, the relationship between wound diameter and bullet caliber was examined using cranial bones from autopsy cases. The minimum diameter of 35 cranial wounds produced by .22, .25, and .38-caliber bullet was measured. The relationship of minimum wound diameter to bullet caliber was examined using a one way analysis of variance. Fisher's least significant difference test revealed no significant difference between .22-caliber and .25-caliber wounds, while the .38-caliber wounds were significantly different (P &lt; .001) from .22-caliber and .25-caliber wounds. Variation in wound size resulting from such factors as bullet shape, surface treatment, strength characteristics, loss of gyroscopic stability, intermediate targets, tangential impacts, and existing fractures are discussed. Also, the large variety of calibers available are noted as complicating the prediction of caliber from wound size. In view of these factors caution is recommended in any attempt to determine precise bullet caliber from the minimum dimensions of the cranial gunshot entrance wound.
Sex Assessment from Metacarpals of the Human Hand
Authors: Falsetti AB 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Discriminant functions designed for the determination of sex from metacarpal measurements are presented. Three samples of metacarpal specimens were employed in the analysis; one consisting of 212 individuals from the Terry Collection, one of 33 individuals from the Royal Free Medical School in London, and finally, 40 individuals from the Forensic/Donated Collection, Maxwell Museum of Anthropology, University of New Mexico, all of whom had documented sex. Five measurements designed to characterize the size and shape of the human metacarpal were taken on all five digits. Based on the Terry Collection, significant metric differences attributed to race were found for digits I and III, and thus functions could only be derived for the three remaining metacarpals. Sex discriminant functions derived from the Terry Collection for digits II, IV, and V provide correct classification of 92.0, 86.26, and 84.37 percent. The resulting three linear equations were then independently applied to the Royal Free Medical School and Forensic/Donated samples to validate the accuracy of the original functions. Percentage of correct classification for each of the test samples varies.
Intercondylar Shelf Angle: A New Method to Determine Race from the Distal Femur
Authors: Craig EA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study documents racial variation in the intercondylar shelf angle. The intercondylar shelf is actually the “roof” of the intercondylar notch, and on a lateral radiograph of the femur this is a distinctive feature called Blumensaat's Line. The angle between Blumensaat's Line and the posterior shaft of the femur can be quickly and easily measured. Variations in this angle are not dependent on the size of the femur, nor is the angle affected by arthritis in the notch or by trauma to the articular surfaces. Even fragmentary femora can be measured. This is a non-invasive technique that can be used in skeletal cases as well as cases where there are intact soft tissues.
Challenge on the Frontier: Discerning American Indians from Whites Osteologically
Authors: Gill GW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Throughout much of the western region of the United States the traditional metric method for discerning Amerindian skeletal remains from those of Whites or Blacks, that is, the Giles-Elliot discriminant function approach [2], has simply been shown to be ineffective [3,4]. It also seems to fail at correctly identifying the crania of Black males [19]. The region of the West that produces the lowest percentages of correct placement of American Indian skeletons appears to be the Northwestern Plains (Wyoming, Montana). For this reason, in that area of the West a number of new methods have emerged (both metric and non-metric) in recent years. The effectiveness of each of these approaches in the process of skeletal identification varies, but most of them appear to be quite useful in forensic contexts. It is also suggested that some additional new approaches which seem to hold much promise for the future, be tested objectively as well, in order to ascertain their effectiveness in forensic casework.
But Professor, Why Teach Race Identification if Races Don't Exist?
Authors: Kennedy KAR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Although the typological race concept is obsolete in present-day systematic biology and anthropology, the idea that human populations and individuals are classifiable into separate races (Blacks, Whites, Native Americans, etc.) persists in government census data and mass media sources as well as in the forensic sciences. Determination of ancestry is a critical component of the forensic anthropologist's methodology in identification of human remains. In training students in laboratory techniques of personal identification, the paradox of the scientific rejection of the race concept and its survival in medical-legal contexts needs to be addressed explicitly. Forensic anthropologists and their colleagues in other branches of biological anthropology are best able to determine the ancestral background of an individual when they are familiar with the geographical distributions and frequencies of phenotypic traits in modern populations. Their methodology does not necessitate a racial classification based upon nonconcordant characters in order to provide evidence for positive identification of individuals.
Separation of D1S80 Alleles by Vertical Electrophoresis Through a Two-Tier Resolving Gel
Authors: Roffey PE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The clarity of VNTR allele profiles generated by vertical polyacrylamide electrophoresis is improved by the addition of a stacking gel layer. However, the size of the resolving gel must be reduced to provide space for the stacking gel; therefore, resolving power is conceded in order to improve clarity. The procedure described in this paper delivers near maximum allele separation while maintaining excellent band clarity. This has been achieved by reducing the length of the stacking gel and dividing the resolving gel into two layers with a small increment in acrylamide in the lower layer.
Psychiatric-Legal Analysis of Criminal Defendants Charged with Murder: A Sample Without Major Mental Disorder
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A sample of 31 criminal defendants who were charged with murder but without major mental disorder was studied. The sample was derived from a large urban multi-ethnic, multi-cultural community pool. Subject characteristics and information about the homicide and decedents are described. Suggestions for further study are briefly discussed.
Another Courtroom Assault on the Confidentiality of the Psychotherapist-Patient Relationship
Authors: Leong GB , Silva JA , Weinstock R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The therapeutic and legal protections afforded by California's psychotherapist-patient privilege have become increasingly eroded in such recent cases as People v. Wharton and Menendez v. Superior Court. In another capital case, People v. Webb, the California Supreme Court further erodes this privilege in regard to the private (confidential) treatment records of a prosecution witness. The Webb case and its possible implications are explored.
Gender Identification of Dried Human Bloodstains Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Authors: Pettenati MJ , Rao PN , Schnell S , Hayworth-Hodge R , Lantz PE , Geisinger KR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Identification of the gender of an individual(s) from whom a bloodstain is derived represents important evidence in medicolegal cases. The efficacy of fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using chromosome X and Y centromeric probes was tested to determine its ability to identify correctly the gender of extracted dried bloodstains. In this preliminary study, FISH correctly identified the gender of 2-week-old dried bloodstains in prepared mixtures of male-to-female blood as low as 1%. The technique is accurate, rapid, sensitive, easily performed and readily available. This application of FISH as a forensic laboratory technique holds great promise.
A Survey of Gunshot Residue Analysis Methods
Authors: Singer RL , Davis D , Houck MM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A survey was sent to 80 forensic laboratories in 44 States and two Canadian Provinces concerning methodology in analyzing gunshot residue (GSR) and interpreting the results. Of the 80 surveys, 50 (63%) were returned completed. Questions included standard procedures, collection methods, thresholding problems and specificity of data. These results are compared to a previous survey reported in 1990. Implications for the interpretation and future study of these methods are discussed.