bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Allele Frequencies of Y-Chromosome STR Locus DYS445 in a Chinese Population
Authors: Dong JG , Hou YP , Li YB , Wu J , Tang JP , Ji Q 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Specimens of 126 unrelated male individuals were collected from Han ethnic group in Sichuan province of China. DNA was extracted from blood specimens using Chelex 100 method (1). DNA typing was carried out by PCR. Each PCR reaction contained 2 to 20 ng human genomic DNA,1 × Taq buffer,1.5 mM MgCl2, 200 μM each nucleotide, 1.5 U Taq polymerase, 0.25 μM each primer in a total volume of 37.5 μL. In the PCR Protocol the DNA was initially denatured at 94°C for 1 min. This was followed with 94°C 50 s, 63°C 70 s, and 72°C for 7 s. A total of 38 cycles was carried out in a GenAmp PCR System 9600. The PCR products were analyzed using a horizontal nondenaturing polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with a discontinuous buffer system (2). The gels were silverstained (3). Allele determination was carried out by comparison with the sequenced human allele ladder, which was made in-house and contained all the alleles found in this study. Following the recommendations of the International Society of Forensic Genetics (4), the allele classification for the DYS445 locus was based on the number of repeat motifs. The parameters dealing with forensic genetics were calculated according to Hou's method (5).
A Review of: Developmental Juvenile Osteology
Authors: Jantz RL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
It is hard to imagine that anyone can or will produce a more comprehensive or useful treatment of juvenile osteology than the one presented in this book. It is lengthy, heavy and expensive, but every page is full of information that will be useful to anyone engaged in skeletal research and teaching. For forensic anthropologists and bioarchaeologists confronted with the skeletal remains of children, it will be the definitive reference for years to come. Here is why. The first four chapters outline the general features of skeletal development, bone development, and embryology. The following seven chapters deal with anatomical regions: head, neck and dentition; vertebral column; thorax; the pectoral girdle; upper limb; pelvic girdle; and lower limb. Each chapter has a detailed anatomical and embryological description, practical notes about siding and possible sources of confusion in identification, measurements by age and a morphological summary.
Review of: Benzodiazepines and GHB: Detection and Pharmacology
Authors: Logan BK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
As the publisher's cover notes on this volume point out, the low dose benzodiazepines and gamma hydroxybutyrate (GHB) escape detection in many laboratories because of their low effective doses and rapid metabolism. This is an important shortcoming because of the forensic consequences of the use and misuse of these drugs. Edited by Dr. Salvatore Salamone, the book is a collection of seven papers, any of which would be at home in the pages of this Journal, and it will be a useful addition to the library of any laboratory looking to improve its performance in the areas discussed. Its focus, however, is on a few of the low dose benzodiazepines, (a fact not clear from the title), and includes only a single chapter on GHB.
PMS, Psychosis and Culpability: Sound or Misguided Defense?
Authors: Downs LL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is believed to affect up to 90% of women of reproductive age. A small subset of women have been identified who actually experience psychotic symptoms in the premenstrual phase of their cycles. Not surprisingly, PMS has made it into the courts where it has been offered as a defense for criminal acts. The defense has generally fared poorly in the United States, although it has been successfully used as a factor in supporting diminished capacity in Great Britain. The following paper sets out to review the medical literature on premenstrual syndrome with a particular focus on premenstrual psychosis. Available literature from both medical and legal sources is then utilized to investigate instances in which premenstrual psychosis has been invoked as a defense in the courts.
Interobserver Variation of Selected Postcranial Skeletal Measurements
Authors: Adams BJ , Byrd JE 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Osteometric data are of great importance for analytical purposes in the field of forensic anthropology, and it is critical that interobserver concordance is high in order for the results of these analyses to be reliable. Significant interobserver variation of skeletal measurements is cause for concern since it may result in conflicting conclusions. The range of interobserver variation of selected postcranial measurements is addressed. Thirteen standard measurements familiar to most forensic anthropologists were examined, as well as nine nonstandard measurements that were unfamiliar to most participants in the study. Sixty-eight individuals participated in the study, the majority of whom considered themselves to be forensic anthropologists with various levels of experience. In general, interobserver variation of the tested standard postcranial measurements was found to be minimal, with the exception of pubis length and subtrochanteric femur measurements. The difficulties that can lead to measurement error are discussed and possible solutions are recommended.
Reduced Volume PCR Amplification Reactions Using the AmpFlSTR® Profiler Plus™ Kit
Authors: Gaines ML , Wojtkiewicz PW , Valentine JA , Brown CL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The forensic community continues to seek improvements in DNA typing methods on aspects such as sensitivity and efficacy. Reducing the volume of the AmpF_STR® Profiler Plus™ reagents offered greater sensitivity and improved the chance of obtaining useful results for samples with very low quantities of DNA and multiple source samples. On the downside, amplifications initiated with less than 0.4 ng of DNA exhibited a twofold increase in the standard deviation of peak ratios.
This research suggested a twofold approach to analyzing samples. For samples with greater than 0.25 ng of DNA, a 25 μL reaction is appropriate. Samples that did not demonstrate quantifiable results, or that have less than 0.25 ng, can be amplified by drying the sample directly in the PCR tube and amplifying in a 5 μL reaction. The analyst can expect at least limited results with as little as 0.03 ng of DNA in the 5 μL reaction.
A Quantitative Comparison of Smokeless Powder Measurements
Authors: MacCrehan WA , Reardon MR , Duewer DL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Measurements of the type and concentration of propellant and stabilizer additives in smokeless gunpowder are used by forensic scientists investigating the source of explosives and by military laboratories assuring the safety and efficacy of munitions. The National Institute of Standards and Technology recently assessed the state-of-the-practice of smokeless powder measurements through an international measurement comparison exercise. We here present results provided by the five participants (of 20 total) reporting quantitative as well as qualitative values for two handgun reloading powders. All five of these participants reported values for nitroglycerin (NG), ethyl centralite (EC), diphenylamine (DPA), and N-nitrosodiphenylamine (NnDPA). Several participants additionally reported the concentrations of secondary stabilizer decomposition products. The unstable NG propellant additive appears to be more susceptible to method-specific calibration biases then are the stabilizer additives. All results from one participant were strongly biased relative to those of the other four. The within-participant measurement uncertainties for all analytes were self-reported to be 1 to 5% relative; among the four concordant participants, the measurement ranges are 5 to 10% relative. There was little consistency among the participants as to what components of measurement variance were included in their uncertainty statements. A discussion of the certainties in these measurements and factors that affect the accuracy of gunpowder additive determinations is presented.
Does Ink Age Inside of a Pen Cartridge?
Authors: Grim DM , Siegel J , Allison J 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In questioned document examination and ink dating, it has been assumed that the ink inside of a pen cartridge does not begin aging until the ink is dispensed onto paper. Positive ion laser desorption (LD) mass spectra were obtained of ink-on-paper samples containing methyl violet, from new and old pens. Mass spectral studies with methyl violet have established the mechanism for how the dye degrades over time, and have provided structural information concerning the dye's degradation products. This information was used as an indication of the relative age of ink on paper. The LD mass spectrum of the ink from a new pen was indicative of “new” ink, whereas the spectra of the ink found in some older pens may appear to be either new or old. The ink from most of the old pens studied appears not to have aged, supporting the common assumption, whereas other ink samples produced “aged” ink spectra, suggesting otherwise.
Gunshot Location Through Recorded Sound: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Pregliasco RG , Martinez EN 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Using a video tape and three still photographs, we analyze recorded sound to attribute authorship in a fatal shooting incident.
We measure the acoustic signature of the scene with four test detonations, and we discuss two methods of processing putative echoes in the audio band of the video. They allow us to locate 11 out of 17 shots, with a precision of 0.4 1.0 m 2 .
Combining the location of the shots with the known positions of the participants, we arrive at the clear attribution of eight shots; three other shots (among which is the fatal one) probably issue from the same shooter, who remains unidentified within a small group of men. Our results lead to the exculpation of the main suspect.
We analyze the statistical significance of the results, use Monte Carlo simulations to set an upper bound to the probability of false positives, and discuss areas of improvement of the method.
The Crash of LOT Flight 007: Dental Identification
Authors: Brannon RB , Morlang WM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The authors record the contribution of dentistry to the identification of American victims of one of the most significant aircraft tragedies involving American athletes-the March 1980 crash of a Soviet-made Ilyushin 62 Polish jetliner and the deaths of 31 Americans including a 22-member U.S. amateur boxing team with several U.S. Olympic team candidates. Preparedness was a factor in the dental team's ability to re-solve many notable and unexpected problems. Jurisdictional restraints that Polish authorities imposed on the U.S. investigative team hindered its efforts to identify American passengers. The team used dental and fingerprint methods of identification whenever possible and obtained further evidence from anthropologic methods, visual recognition, and personal effects. Dental readiness, organization, methodology, and lessons learned are documented in this paper.
Charred Body: Virtual Autopsy with Multi-slice Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Thali MJ , Yen K , Plattner T , Schweitzer W , Vock P , Ozdoba C , Dirnhofer R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The correct examination of a charred body is a forensic challenge. Examination, interpretation, and conclusion in respect to identification, vital reactions, toxicological analysis, and determining cause and manner of death are all more difficult than without burns. To evaluate what can be seen in the case of a charred body, we made an examination with the new radiological modalities of cross-section techniques, via multi-slice Computed Tomography (MSCT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), prior to performing the classical forensic autopsy. In a charred body case of a single motor vehicle/fixed object collision with a post crash fire, the radiological methods of MSCT and MRI made it possible to document the injuries caused by burn as well as the forensic relevant vital reactions (air embolism and blood aspiration). In conclusion, we think postmortem imaging is a good forensic visualization tool with a great potential for the forensic documentation and examination of charred bodies.
Mitochondrial DNA Sequencing of Beetle Larvae (Nitidulidae: Omosita) Recovered From Human Bone
Authors: DiZinno JA , Lord WD , Collins-Morton MB , Wilson MR , Goff ML 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The isolation, amplification, and characterization of human DNA from hematophagous (blood feeding) and necrophagous (carrion feeding) arthropods have been advanced significantly by the development of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) DNA sequencing methodologies. Historically, DNA technology has been successfully utilized to identify individual hosts upon which species of hematophagous arthropods have fed. The analysis of hematophagous insects' gut content blood meals has led to major advances in medical entomology and vector-borne disease epidemiology. In the forensic arena, the ability to apply similar techniques to insects recovered from badly decomposed remains has been greatly enhanced through the advent of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) techniques. Mitochondrial DNA analyses have been utilized to identify both the human remains upon which fly larvae (maggots) have fed and the species of the larvae themselves. The preliminary work detailed here demonstrates, for the first time, the successful application of mtDNA sequencing techniques to the analysis of necrophagous beetle larvae. A small sample of sap beetle larvae, Omosita spp. (Coleoptera: Nitidulidae), was collected from human skeletal remains during anthropological examination and analyzed for human DNA using mtDNA sequencing. The beetle larvae yielded mtDNA matching that of the host human bone. The results detailed here further demonstrate the robust nature of human mtDNA and the ability to recover valuable mtDNA evidence from forensically important, late decompositional stage insect species.
Fatal Accidental Hanging from a Lanyard Key Chain in a 10- Year-Old Boy
Authors: Denton JS 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Lanyard chains are commonly worn around the neck to hold keys and identification badges. A ten-year-old Black male child was home alone jumping and swinging of the raised crossbars on his mother's four-poster bed. He commonly did this. He also wore a lanyard around his neck with his house key, which he used to let himself in after school. His mother found him hanging on the corner of the bedpost by the lanyard when she returned from work. The death scene showed that he was jumping on the bed and the lanyard hooked over the top of the corner bedpost, causing first and second cervical vertebrae dislocation of an abrupt “drop-type” hanging with neck abrasion marks. Lanyards, or any loose rope material around the neck, are inherently dangerous due to their strength and ability to catch fixed or moving objects. Safety modifications to the lanyards are easily made with “breakaway” Velcro-type or plastic clip fasteners. This is the first reported case of an accidental hanging after review of the medical literature and files of the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.
Psychological Autopsies: The Current Department of Defense Effort to Standardize Training and Quality Assurance
Authors: Ritchie EC , Gelles MG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Psychological autopsies have been gathered by the US military for a long time, both for lessons learned after a known suicide and to investigate an equivocal death. The term “psychological autopsies” is now being restricted to define an investigation by mental health to help determine, in an equivocal death, if the manner of death is a homicide, suicide, an accident, or from natural causes. The Department of Defense has developed policy, and is now implementing training and peer review. A sample model curriculum, report format and quality assurance standards are included.
HbA1c as a Postmortem Tool to Identify Glycemic Control
Authors: Winecker RE , Hammett-Stabler CA , Chapman JF , Ropero-Miller JD 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Estimates suggest that more than 5.4 million U.S. citizens unknowingly have diabetes and are at increased risk of morbidity and mortality. We evaluated an immunoturbidimetric measurement of glycated hemoglobin (%HbA1c) as a postmortem tool to identify such individuals. Although postmortem samples undergo some degradation, the effects are not sufficient to invalidate the use of the test or method. Using two study populations whose medical history of diabetes was known, we found the mean %HbA1c of the non-diabetics (5.8 ± 0.3) to be statistically different from that of the diabetics (12.4 ± 2.8). For the population whose disease status was unknown, the %HbA1c ranged from 4.7 to 16.8. For six unknowns whose values exceeded 7.0%, the mean was 11.7%, which did not differ statistically from the diabetic mean (p = 0.6615). These studies suggest that postmortem blood samples can be used to characterize HbA1c values.
Estimation of Blood Alcohol Concentrations after Social Drinking
Authors: Stowell AR , Stowell LI 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Requests for estimates of blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) are often made when blood samples are taken some hours after the time of interest. Many believe that such estimates are not reliable because the subject's alcohol clearance rate is never known and often there is uncertainty as to whether the subject was postabsorptive at the time in question.
In order to evaluate the potential errors associated with BAC estimates under these non-ideal conditions, BAC estimates were compared with empirical data obtained from 24 healthy males, ranging in age from 22 to 56 years, who took part in a three hour social drinking session. One blood sample for alcohol analysis was taken from each subject approximately 1 hour after drinking stopped and another was taken approximately 3.5 hours after drinking stopped.
Estimations of BACs at the blood sampling time points were made assuming each person had a constant blood alcohol clearance rate in the range of 10 to 20 mg/dL/h (0.01 to 0.02 g/dL/h) over the whole of the experimental period. A variety of methods were used to estimate the volume of distribution for alcohol. All BAC estimations were made assuming complete absorption and full equilibration of the total alcohol dose.
The results showed that actual BACs were usually within or very close to the range of “forward” estimates based on the known alcohol doses. Furthermore, most BACs measured about an hour after cessation of drinking were within or very close to the predicted range based on back extrapolation from the actual 3.5 hour BAC result.
A Comparison of ONTRAK TESTCUP™, Abuscreen ONTRAK®, Abuscreen ONLINE®, and GC/MS Urinalysis Test Results
Authors: Crouch DJ , Cheever ML , Andrenyak DM , Kuntz DJ , Loughmiller DL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study was designed to compare results obtained from two separate on-site drug testing kits (ONTRAK TESTCUP and Abuscreen ONTRAK) with those obtained from laboratory based immunoassay and GC/MS. Abuscreen ONLINE immunoassay was used to select 250 negative samples and 100 presumptive-positive samples each for cocaine/metabolites, opiates and cannabinoids. Presumptive-positive samples were selected if the immunoassay response was ⩾300 ng/mL for cocaine/metabolites (BZE), ⩾300 ng/mL for opiates or ⩾50 ng/mL for cannabinoids (THC-COOH). GC/MS was used to confirm that each selected sample contained ⩾150 ng/mL BZE, ⩾300 ng/mL morphine/codeine or ⩾15 ng/mL THC-COOH.
TESTCUP results had a 100% agreement with GC/MS and a &gt;99% agreement with ONLINE when testing negative samples. The agreement between TESTCUP and ONLINE results for samples containing opiates was 100%. Results of testing samples containing BZE with TESTCUP demonstrated a 98% agreement with both GC/MS and ONLINE. Both discrepant samples contained BZE at concentrations ⩽300 ng/mL. The least agreement between TESTCUP and ONLINE results was found when testing samples containing THC-COOH. The agreement with ONLINE and GC/MS was 92% and all discrepant samples had GC/MS determined THC-COOH concentrations less than 50 ng/mL. A 100% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded TESTCUP results for QC samples fortified to contained BZE, morphine or THC-COOH at concentrations within 120% of the screening cutoffs.
ONTRAK had a 100% agreement with both GC/MS and ONLINE when testing negative samples and samples that contained opiates. ONTRAK had a 91% agreement with GC/MS and ONLINE for testing of samples that contained BZE. The least agreement between ONTRAK and ONLINE results was found when testing samples that contained THC-COOH. The agreement was 89%, however, all discrepant samples contained GC/MS concentrations of THC-COOH less that the 50 ng/mL cutoff. With ONTRAK, a 100% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded results on QC samples that contained morphine or THC-COOH and a 97.7% agreement was obtained between expected and recorded results on QC samples that contained BZE.
Relating Cocaine Blood Concentrations to Toxicity—an Autopsy Study of 99 Cases
Authors: Karch SB , Stephens B , Ho C-H 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
We conducted a retrospective study of 48 men with cocaine-related deaths (CTOX), and a control group of 51 male cocaine users who died of lethal trauma (TRAU). Regression analysis and multiple t-tests were used to assess the relationship between cocaine and benzoylecgonine concentrations as well as autopsy measurements. Findings: Mean age was similar (35.9 vs 34.8 years, p = .549). Cocaine blood concentrations were not significantly different (1.12 vs .487 mg/L, p = .10), but mean BE concentrations were higher in CTOX (1.54 vs .946 mg/L, p = .018). CTOX decedents had a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) (24.6 vs 30.6, p = &lt;.0001), larger hearts (426 vs 369, p = .009), and heavier lungs, livers, and spleens (1275 g vs 1007 g, p = .009, 1896 g vs 1628 g, p = .008, 193 g vs 146 g, p = .001). Conclusions: (1) Blood cocaine concentrations in cocaine-related deaths are indistinguishable from postmortem concentrations in recreational users, but BE is higher in cocaine-related deaths. (2) Increased lung, liver and spleen weights are consistent with cocaine induced heart failure, but (3) Decreased BMI and increased heart weights in CTOX must be a consequence of long term cocaine use. Cardiac alterations may explain why equal blood cocaine concentrations may be lethal in some cases and innocuous in others, (4) Isolated measurements of postmortem cocaine and BE blood concentrations cannot be used to assess, or predict toxicity.