bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Analysis of 3,4-Methylenedioxy-N-Methylamphetamine (MDMA) in “Ecstasy” Tablets by 13C Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Spectroscopy
Authors: Lee GSH , Craig DC , Kannangara GSK , Dawson M , Conn C , Robertson J , Wilson MA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The solution and solid state NMR spectra of 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine hydrochloride (MDMA·HCl) and a number of illicitly manufactured tablets containing this material and marketed as “Ecstasy” have been obtained. We show solid state NMR to be a useful technique for the analysis of the impurities and excipients in “Ecstasy” tablets and with further development may be used quantitatively for determining the percentage carbon which is MDMA. Excipients detected include lactose, cellulose, stearate salts, sucrose, starch, polyvinylpyrrolidone and sodium croscarmellose. Two samples were found to contain 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-ethylamphetamine (MDEA), rather than MDMA. Some interesting conformational information is also observed. Differences in the chemical shifts of C-8 and C-10 carbons for 3,4-methylenedioxy-N-methylamphetamine hydrochloride in solution and solid state and in different “Ecstasy” samples are attributed to conformational freezing and hydrogen bonding. In the solid state, carbons 8 and 10 are restricted from free rotation and the methyl groups at carbon 10 and carbon 11 are held only in trans conformation unlike in solution. These results were confirmed by a crystal structure analysis. When excipients capable of hydrogen bonding are physically mixed with MDMA·HCl, the chemical shifts of carbons 8 and 10 in the resulting mixture changes such that they more closely resemble the shifts observed in solution.
Simultaneous Detection of Multiple STR Loci on Sex Chromosomes for Forensic Testing of Sex and Identity
Authors: Tun Z , Honda K , Nakatome M , Nakamura M , Shimada S , Ogura Y , Kuroki H , Yamazaki M , Terada M , Matoba R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The forensic usefulness of X and Y chromosomal STR loci has recently been demonstrated. One quadruplex-PCR, using 2 X- and 2 Y-STRs (STRX1/HPRTB and DYS390/DYS393), and 2 duplex-PCRs, each using an X- and a Y-STR (ARA/DYS390 and ARA/DYS393), and detection of PCR products by using an automated DNA sequencer are reported herein. This approach allows us to determine not only the sex of the donor of a sample, but also the X- and/or Y-STR genotypes of the sample. A male biological specimen yields 4 amplified products in quadruplex-PCR and 2 amplified fragments in duplex-PCRs, whereas a female biological specimen yields only 2 amplified fragments of X-STR in quadruplex-PCR and one fragment, also of X-STR, in duplex-PCRs. Our study thus provides useful information for many activities in forensic practice, such as identity testing, paternity testing, especially of deficiency cases, compilation of population data, and sex determination of a biological sample from a single PCR.
Aqueous Recovery from Cotton Swabs of Organic Explosives Residue Followed by Solid Phase Extraction
Authors: Thompson RQ , Fetterolf DD , Miller ML , Mothershead RF 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A common procedure for processing cotton swabs containing organic explosives residue involves soaking the cotton in acetone or other organic solvent to extract the explosives, followed by direct analysis of the resulting sample solution using chromatography—mass spectrometry (LC- or GC-MS). A water-based procedure was developed to solve problems arising from co-extraction of sample matrix. Common nitro-organic explosives were extracted from cotton into water; the explosives were isolated by solid phase extraction, using a poly-N-vinylpyrrolidone-divinylbenzene sorbent; samples were screened by LC-UV; and the presence of explosives was confirmed by LC- or GC-MS and fast GC-TEA (EGIS).
Explosives residue samples were generated by mixing standards in motor oil on aluminum foil, by detonating four different bombs (C-4, a dynamite, a binary explosive, and TNT) hidden inside suitcases filled with clothing, and by handling a plastic explosive (Semtex H). Ninety-six paired samples were processed by the two procedures (acetone-based and water-based). The water extraction/SPE process was just as effective in recovering organic explosives from cotton swabs, and it better rejected the sample matrix, giving much greater selectivity with all samples except clothing. Water-based samples were screened with high accuracy by LC-UV, and the LC-UV and LC-MS semi-quantitative results were highly correlated.
Effects of Extreme Heat on Teeth with Implications for Histologic Processing
Authors: Myers SL , Williams JM , Hodges JS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This pilot study examined teeth subjected to extreme heat under laboratory conditions, and the subsequent effect of decalcification and histologic processing. Physical and microscopic findings were evaluated in relation to temperature and duration of thermal insult. Microscopic examination following decalcification and histologic processing revealed changes including severe tissue fragmentation, vapor bubbles within dentinal tubules, altered histologic staining, charring and tissue shrinkage. Dentin appeared to be the most reliable microscopic identifier of incinerated dental tissues. Temperatures above 600°C strongly predicted tooth disintegration following decalcification. This finding has implications in incineration cases where histologic evidence must be maintained and examined intact.
Practical Implications of Charge Transport Model for Electrostatic Detection Apparatus (ESDA)
Authors: Seward GH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The practical implications are described for a previously reported charge transport model of the electrostatic detection apparatus [Seward GH. J Appl Phys 1998;83(3):1450–6]. Several steps within the ESDA process are theoretically evaluated by the model: humidification of specimen, duration of charging, and duration of discharge prior to application of toner. Recommendations for improved sensitivity are derived from the theoretical models as well as experimental observations.
The Effect of Luminol on Presumptive Tests and DNA Analysis Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction
Authors: Gross AM , Harris KA , Kaldun GL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study was designed to test the following factors involved with processing luminol treated bloodstained evidence: 1) The reactivity of other presumptive chemical color tests, phenolphthalin (PT) and tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), following the application of the light emitting luminol presumptive test. 2) The effect of different cleanings of various bloody substrates on the luminol test. 3) The effect of different cleanings of various bloody substrates on the ability to obtain DNA suitable for PCR testing. 4) The ability to extract DNA from luminol treated bloodstained substrates using three extraction techniques. 5) The effect of spraying washed and unwashed bloodstains on various substrates with luminol on the ability to correctly type the DNA using PCR. Our findings indicated that luminol did not adversely effect the PCR testing and did not interfere with the PT and TMB presumptive tests for blood. It was determined that the substrate and the method of cleaning were the major factors affecting DNA yield and the ability to type the bloodstains using PCR based technologies.
Description of Three New Alleles at the D1S80 (MCT118) Locus
Authors: Eisenbarth I , Assum G , Krone W 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The minisatellite locus D1S80 is a variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) locus which is commonly typed for forensic and paternity testing in a large number of laboratories all over the world. Here we describe three new alleles at the D1S80 locus; one small allele composed of 13 units of the repeated 16 mer, a further large allele with approximately 45 repeat units which we found two times in our population sample and another large allele with approximately 50 repeats.
Population Genetics of Two Tetranucleotide Repeats (UGB and D3S1349): A Preliminary Study in Galicia, Spain
Authors: Leyenda P , Caeiro B 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The polymorphism of two tetranucleotide repeats, UGB and D3S1349 in the population of Galicia, Spain was carried out. Up to 7 and 8 alleles respectively were found, which determine values of H = 0.820 and H = 0.808 for these two STRs. A non-isotopic technique using thin layer polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by silver staining, for the screening of both systems, is presented and discussed. Formal genetic studies from 51 meioses are concordant with an autosomal co-dominant way of inheritance of these systems.
Modified Intraoral Film Holders for Postmortem Identification
Authors: Oeschger MP , Hubar JS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
To date there have not been any commercial dental X-ray film holders marketed to accommodate the special needs of forensic odontologists. Modification of standard Rinn XCP® film holders by the investigators produced self-supporting film holders that do not require the active participation from the examinee. The modified film holders greatly simplify the operator's technique of exposing dental radiographs on cadavers.
Centipede Inflicted Postmortem Injury
Authors: Harada K , Asa K , Imachi T , Yamaguchi Y , Yoshida K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We here report the first case of postmortem injury caused by a centipede. An old man was found dead in his bedroom. The death was estimated to be due to intracranial hemorrhage and to have occurred two days before the police inspection. A centipede about 12 cm long emerged from a subcutaneous cavity on the victim's forearm. Obviously, the centipede had dug the cavity on the intact skin. A police inspector was bitten by the centipede, so he stepped on the centipede on the floor. The exudate from the insect was identified to be derived from the victim's blood.
Wildlife Forensic Entomology: Determining Time of Death in Two Illegally Killed Black Bear Cubs
Authors: Anderson GS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic entomology is now commonly used to determine time of death in human death investigations. However, it can be equally applicable to wildlife crimes. This paper describes the use of entomology to determine time of death in the illegal killing of two young bear cubs in Manitoba, Canada. Two cubs were found shot, disemboweled, with their gall bladders removed. Natural Resource officers (Conservation Officers) and a Royal Canadian Mounted Police (R.C.M.P.) officer examined the remains, and the R.C.M.P. officer collected insect evidence. The only insects on the remains were adult blow flies coming to lay eggs and the blow fly eggs themselves (Diptera: Calliphoridae). The time of hatch was recorded and the insects were reared to adulthood. Time of hatch, together with species identification, macro and micro climate and lab developmental data were used to determine the time of death. The time was consistent with the time that the defendants were seen at the scene and was used in their conviction. This case illustrates that insect evidence can be equally as valuable in poaching cases as in homicide cases. However, in most cases Conservation Officers are unaware of this science. It is therefore, extremely important for more Conservation Officers to be educated about this field.
Forensic Identification of a Rapist Using Unusual Evidence
Authors: Oz C , Levi JA , Novoselski Y , Volkov N , Motro U 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This case report demonstrates a rape case, where no semen, hair, or fingerprints were left by the perpetrator at the crime scene, but rather uncharacteristic biological and physical evidence in the form of a lollipop and a pair of glasses. Three separate forensic laboratories collaborated using conventional forensic methods of PCR DNA typing, photography, and toolmark comparisons to provide investigators with scientific evidence which in turn was instrumental in bringing a violent criminal to justice. The importance of evaluating each item of evidence and realizing its forensic value is stressed in this case report.
The Potential Contribution of MVR-PCR to Paternity Probabilities in a Case Lacking a Mother
Authors: Tamaki K , Huang X-L , Mizutani M , Yamamoto T , Katsumata R , Uchihi R , Katsumata Y , Jeffreys AJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Minisatellite variant repeat (MVR) mapping using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was applied to a paternity case lacking a mother to evaluate the paternity probability. After three flanking polymorphic sites at each of MS31A and MS32 loci were investigated from the child and alleged father, allele-specific MVR-PCR was performed using genomic DNA. It was confirmed that one allele in the child was identical to that in the alleged father at both loci. Mapped allele codes were compared with allele structures established from population surveys. No perfect matches were found although some motifs were shared with other Japanese alleles. The paternity index and probability of paternity exclusion at these two MVR loci were then estimated, establishing the power of MVR-PCR even in paternity cases lacking a mother.
Male DNA Typing from 25-Year-Old Vaginal Swabs Using Y Chromosomal STR Polymorphisms in a Retrial Request Case
Authors: Honda K , Roewer L , de Kniff P 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We report here the application of Y chromosomal DNA analysis in a retrial request case, raised officially by Sapporo High Court, Japan, of a condemned criminal whose capital punishment has been suspended. DNA was extracted from mixed seminal/vaginal secretion stains collected 25 years ago from two raped and murdered victims, and Y chromosome STR loci (DYS19, 390, 393, YCAII) were amplified and sequenced to clarify the DNA type of the rapist. Alkaline proteinase and sodium hydroxide were used before phenol/chloroform extraction to achieve high quality DNA from very old samples. In addition, amplified fragments of DYS19, DYS390, and DYS393 were sequenced using an automated DNA sequencer. Four Y STR DNA types detected from vaginal swabs were found identical to those of the accused criminal and confirmed that the two rape and murder cases had been committed by the same person. Sapporo High Court accepted the results and rejected the retrial request in February 1998.
Commentary On: Huxley AK and Angevine JB Jr. Determination of Gestational Age from Lunar Age Assessments in Human Fetal Remains. J Forensic Sci 1998;43(6):1254–1256
Authors: Warren MW 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Commentary On: Huxley AK and Angevine JB Jr. Determination of Gestational Age from Lunar Age Assessments in Human Fetal Remains. J Forensic Sci 1998;43(6):1254–1256.
Review of: Scientific Evidence and Expert Testimony Handbook
Authors: Uzych L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Forensic Science lies at the interface of law and science. It is a hybrid area in which competent practitioners must be willing and able to work effectually with a professionally-challenging admixture of nebulous legal terms of art and technologic-related questions. The many bricks of scholarship embedded in author Becker's Scientific Evidence and Expert Testimony Handbook are capably constructed into a sturdy bridge of knowledge and understanding, admirably linking the two normally-disparate worlds of law and science.
Review of: Maltreatment and Torture. Research in Legal Medicine, Vol. 19
Authors: Pedal I 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The spectrum of tasks performed by forensic scientists would be completely misunderstood if limited only to the solving of local forensic problems. The forensic practitioner must also carry out the health political tasks society expects of them and must take a stand on questions of human rights transcending mere local and national interests. The logical consistency of this high claim grows necessarily out of the daily work of the forensic physician. As specialists in the phenomenology of the effects of violence, only the forensic scientist can be expected to perform the detailed documentation and reconstruction of events necessary to prove crimes involving maltreatment andlor torture. It is to the credit of the editor of the present volume that they have help to illuminate this vital connection between the specific competence of forensic scientists and its wider social and political implications.
Activated Protein C Resistance Is Uncommon in Sudden Death Due to Pulmonary Embolism
Authors: Rulon JJ , Cho CG , Guerra LL , Bux RC , Gulley ML 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Activated protein C resistance (APC-R) is the most common inherited defect of the coagulation system known to date, affecting 3–5% of Americans. It is an autosomal dominant disorder associated with an increased risk of venous thrombosis and is reportedly found in 21% of individuals with deep venous thrombosis. Medical examiners are in a unique position to make the diagnosis since a fatal pulmonary embolism may be the first manifestation of the disorder. This study examines the prevalence of APC-R in individuals who die suddenly of pulmonary embolism to help medical examiners decide if routine testing is indicated. We examined 66 cases of sudden death due to pulmonary embolism seen at the Bexar County Forensic Science Center in San Antonio, Texas, from 1993–1997. The median age was 46 years with a range of 14 to 93 years. Fifty-three percent were Caucasian, 24% were African-American, and 23% were Hispanic. Twenty-seven percent had no known risk factors for pulmonary embolism. Whole blood was tested for the factor V codon 506Q mutation responsible for APC-R using polymerase chain reaction. The prevalence of APC-R was 4.5%, which is similar to the prevalence of APC-R in the general American population. These data imply that individuals with APC-R are not at increased risk for sudden death due to pulmonary embolism. or, conversely, that most fatal pulmonary emboli seen in the medical examiner setting are not induced by APC-R. Routine postmortem testing for the factor V 506Q mutation does not appear indicated at this time, given the low prevalence and high cost of testing.
Estimating Time of Death of Deer in Missouri; A Comparison of Three Indicators
Authors: Hadley BM , Robbins LW , Beffa DA 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Estimation of time of death (TOD) of white-tailed deer is important to wildlife law enforcement officers. The purpose of this study was to develop and test a model for estimating TOD of white-tailed deer in Missouri. We compare the utility of carcass temperature, pupil diameter, and rigor mortis as TOD indicators. The effects of body size, ambient temperature, and various carcass handling methods on the estimate were also examined. Data were collected from 1484 deer during the 1995–96 and 1996–97 hunting seasons. Stepwise regression indicated that all three indicators were significant and that body size and ambient temperature could influence the model. Predictive equations were developed for various combinations of the indicators based on practicality and statistical probabilities. TOD was estimated for 28 animals where the exact TOD was known. There was no significant difference between the estimated and known TOD (p = 0.759) and the average of the absolute differences is 1 h and 28 min.
Comparative Studies on Tissue Distributions of Organophosphorus, Carbamate and Organochlorine Pesticides in Decedents Intoxicated with These Chemicals
Authors: Moriya F , Hashimoto Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This paper describes the tissue distributions of dichlorvos, an organophosphate, chlorpyrifos-methyl, an organophosphorothioate, methomyl, a carbamate, and endrin, an organochlorine, in three individuals (Cases 1–3) who died after ingesting insecticidal preparations containing these chemicals.
In Case 1 involving dichlorvos and chlorpyrifos-methyl, no dichlorvos was detected in most of the blood and tissue samples. Tiny amounts of dichlorvos (0.067 mg/L and 0.027 mg/L) were detected in the vitreous humor and cerebrospinal fluid, respectively. The chlorpyrifos-methyl concentrations in the blood samples were very site-dependent with a range of 0.615–2.24 mg/L. The tissue concentrations of chlorpyrifos-methyl were within the range 0.379–8.60 mg/kg. The total amounts of dichlorvos and chlorpyrifos-methyl in the stomach were 879 and 612 mg, respectively. The serum cholinesterase activity was 3 IU/L/37°C.
In Case 2 involving methomyl, the methomyl concentrations in the blood samples were very site-dependent with a range of 0.56–4.75 mg/L. The tissue concentrations of methomyl were 2.61 mg/kg or less, no methomyl being detected in the spleen, liver and kidney. The methomyl concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid and vitreous humor were 5.37 and 4.75 mg/L, respectively. The stomach contained 85 mg methomyl. The serum cholinesterase activity was 73 IU/L/37°C.
In Case 3 involving endrin, the victim underwent medical treatment for 7 h after ingesting an endrin preparation. The differences in the endrin concentrations among the blood samples were small, with a range of 0.353–0.615 mg/L. The tissue concentrations of endrin were within the range 0.467 13.3 mg/kg. The endrin in the stomach (66 mg) was adsorbed almost completely on the activated charcoal that was administered for medical treatment.
An Evaluation of the Significance of Transfers of Debris: Criteria for Association and Exclusion
Authors: Cwiklik C 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Several criteria are proposed for making decisions about comparing sets of debris involving the transfer of non-component particles and fibers—those produced from something other than the item itself—using a model based upon rudimentary set theory. Decisions about the significance of an association or an exclusion based upon trace evidence require an evaluation of debris in its context; reference points for such evaluation are presented. Samples of debris from the sites relevant to the event under investigation must be available, as well as debris standards from the usual environments of the people involved, and must be adequate to permit a determination of normal versus foreign debris.
Criteria are proposed for establishing contact based upon corresponding sets of particles and fibers, for excluding contact in the absence of corresponding particles or fibers, and for refraining from making either an association or an exclusion. Conditions for reaching qualified conclusions or other types of associations when these criteria are only partially met are also discussed; conclusions may sometimes be reached if potential sources for debris particles and fibers can be found. Decisions about the strength of an association or an exclusion based upon comparisons of non-component debris particles and fibers can be made by reference to the criteria for reaching a conclusion. The criteria can be tested via Bayes' Theorem. The analysis itself is based primarily upon light microscopy, although other methods may be used as well. Case examples are presented.