bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Asphyxial Suicide by Propane Inhalation and Plastic Bag Suffocation
Authors: Avis SP , Archibald JT 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 26-year-old male committed suicide by inducing asphyxia using a combination of plastic bag suffocation and propane-gas inhalation. This method has been reported in the literature, but it remains unusual. Autopsy findings were consistent with a hypoxic event, and blood, brain, and lung tissue tested positive for propane by gas chromatography. Propane, while possessing some narcotic properties, causes death primarily by displacing oxygen in the atmosphere with resultant asphyxia.
An Acetonitrile-Related Death
Authors: Swanson JR , Krasselt WG 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 39-year-old female who lived alone was discovered dead in her home. An autopsy produced no cause of death. The blood sedative screen was negative and only diphenhydramine was found by the urine organic base analysis. Examination of the blood and urine for volatiles produced an unexpected peak by GC analysis, which was then identified as acetonitrile by GC/MS. Acetonitrile concentrations were 31 and 56 mg/dL in two separate blood samples and 44 mg/dL in the urine. The blood cyanide concentration was 4.4 µg/mL. The cause of death was determined to be acetonitrile poisoning although the source of the acetonirile was not discovered.
Analysis of Ceramic Substrate Found in Cremains
Authors: Huxley AK 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
With the recent increase in the number of lawsuits questioning the possible commingling of cremains, recognition of nonosseous artifacts may aid in the circumstantial identification of a decedent. The remains of a cremated individual were analyzed both macroscopically and microscopically. Examination of material ranging in size from 1.5 cm × 1.0 cm to less than 0.5 cm yielded evidence of numerous nonosseous artifacts. Of primary interest were several fragmentary ceramic objects located in the material, which were pieced together under a microscope and photographed to reveal the imprint of circuitry suggesting a computer chip, subsequently identified from a pacemaker. Although this particular ceramic substrate did not have the necessary markings to facilitate identification of the manufacturer, the pacemaker brand may aid in identification.
Radiographic Identification of Unknown Human Remains and Interpreter Experience Level
Authors: Hogge JP , Messmer JM , Doan QN 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The use of radiographs as a means of identification of unknown remains is a well-established method as performed by radiologists, forensic anthropologists, or pathologists. We devised a test to determine whether the degree of radiographic and medical knowledge of a film interpreter correlates with the degree of accuracy in making comparisons of radiographic unknowns. Three groups considered to be distinctly different in their level of medical knowledge and radiographic interpretive skills were chosen to evaluate forensic identification cases. Although all three groups identified a majority of cases correctly, none were completely accurate. The group with training in radiographic interpretation performed significantly better. Our study supports the need for trained interpreters in cases of forensic identification.
A DNA-Based Approach to the Identification of Insect Species Used for Postmorten Interval Estimation
Authors: Sperling FAH , Anderson GS , Hickey DA 
Published: August 2015

AbstractInsect larvae found on a corpse can be used for estimating postmortem intervals. Here, we describe a molecular method for rapid identification of these insects. Specific insect DNA fragments were amplified using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by direct DNA sequencing of the amplification products. We sequenced 2300 base pairs of mitochondrial DNA from each of three blowfly species: Phormia regina, Phaenicia sericata and Lucilia illustris. All three species are important in forensic entomology. We found 118 nucleotide differences between the L. illustris and P. sericata sequences, 186 between L. illustris and P. regina, and 192 between P. sericata and P. regina. Based on these abundant DNA sequence differences, we can unambiguously identify the immature larval stages of these insects. These DNA sequence differences were also used to predict species-specific, diagnostic restriction sites in the amplified DNA, and these predictions were verified by digestion with nine restriction enzymes. The DNA sequences reported here encode the mitochondrial COI, COII and tRNA-leucine genes.
3′,4′,5′-Trimethoxy-Substituted Analogs of Cocaine, Cis-/Trans-Cinnamoylcocaine and Tropacocaine: Characterization and Quantitation of New Alkaloids in Coca Leaf, Coca Paste and Refined Illicit Cocaine
Authors: Casale JF , Moore JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Four new alkaloids have been detected in South American coca leaf, coca paste and refined illicit cocaine. The compounds 3′,4′,5′-trimethoxycocaine (TMC), 3′,4′,5′-trimethoxytropacocaine (TMT), 3′,4′,5′-trimethoxy-cis-cinnamoylcocaine (cTMCC) and 3′,4′,5′-trimethoxy-trans-cinnamoylcocaine (tTMCC) were isolated from the coca leaf matrix and other alkaloids by toluene extraction followed by trap and ion-pair column chromatography. The identity of each alkaloid was verified via comparison of its mass spectrum with a synthesized standard. All four alkaloids were quantitated in leaf, paste and refined samples at levels of less than 0.1% relative to cocaine via capillary gas chromatography—flame ionization detection (cGC-FID).
Postmortem Clomipramine: Therapeutic or Toxic Concentrations?
Authors: McIntyre IM , King CV , Cordner SM , Drummer OH 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Postmortem blood and liver concentrations of clomipramine were determined in ten cases by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Blood concentrations ranged from 0.21 to 4.9 mg/L, and liver concentrations from 7.0 to 320 mg/kg. Two cases associated with clomipramine toxicity were clearly differentiated from other cases by the analysis of liver. The concentrations of clomipramine in these two cases were 3.3 and 1.8 mg/L in blood, and 280 and 320 mg/kg in liver. The liver concentrations were 10 to 30 fold greater in the deaths associated with drug toxicity compared with the other cases. One case, where cardiac blood was collected in place of femoral blood, showed a high blood concentration (4.9 mg/L), but an arguably therapeutic liver concentration (13 mg/kg). The analysis of femoral blood together with liver provides the best guide as to the significance of post-mortem clomipramine concentrations.
Impurity Profiling Analysis of Illicit Methamphetamine by Capillary Gas Chromatography
Authors: Tanaka K , Ohmor T , Inoue T , Seta S 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The characterizations of methamphetamine samples illegally marketed in Japan were examined by capillary gas chromatographic impurity profiles. The ethyl acetate-extract under basic condition showed the most characteristic and diagnostic gas chromatographic profiles. Most tested samples showed different impurity profiles, though expected similarities existed between some samples found at the same places and times. These profiles were not influenced by the storage of samples. The comparison of impurity profiles obtained by the reported procedure provides very useful information for determining the common and different origin of methamphetamine seizures.
The Use of Minisatellite Variant Repeat—Polymerase Chain Reaction (MVR-PCR) to Determine the Source of Saliva on a Used Postage Stamp
Authors: Hopkins B , Williams NJ , Webb MBT , Debenham PG , Jeffreys AJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In this paper we report the identification of an individual using the MVR-PCR technique on DNA extracted from single and multiple discs (3 mm) punched from a licked stamp attached to an envelope. The individual's code was successfully and uniquely matched to one already present within a database of 500 MVR codes which had been generated in a separate laboratory. The exercise illustrates the suitability of MVR-PCR for forensic samples and demonstrates the power of this rapid and novel identification system.
The Identification of Gunshot Residue Particles from Lead-Free Sintox Ammunition
Authors: Gunaratnam L , Himberg K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Scanning electron microscopy combined with energy dispersive X-ray analysis (SEM/EDX) was used to identify the gunshot residue (GSR) particles discharged by lead-free Sintox ammunition. Sintox GSR particles are characterized by spheroidal particles mainly consisting of titanium (Ti) and zinc (Zn). The results obtained in this study are in agreement with the hypothesis that GSR particles are formed by rapid condensation and solidification of vaporized and molten primer and bullet materials as a result of sudden temperature quench. The surface morphology of Ti-Zn particles is an essential criterion for their identification as gunshot residue particles and for discrimination against Ti-Zn environmental particles.
Achalasia, The Valsalva Maneuver, and Sudden Death: A Case Report
Authors: Sperry K 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A 48 year old woman with no significant prior medical history was found dead by her husband in their home. The autopsy disclosed no anatomic reason for her death; however, the length of the esophagus was found to be massively dilated, with stenosis of the cardiac sphincter, and contained swallowed food material. Her husband disclosed that she had experienced difficulty in swallowing for over 10 years, and had to “strain” to move food into the stomach, although she had never consulted a physician regarding the problem. No gross or microscopic anatomic cardiac abnormalities were identified. The death was ascribed to a cardiac arrhythmia arising from the Valsalva maneuver, which she used to move her ingested food across the stenotic gastroesophageal juncture. The Valsalva maneuver, which increases the intrathoracic pressure by forcing expiratory effort against a closed glottis, has been associated with cardiac arrhythmias and rarely, sudden death. Lethal cardiac arrhythmias should be considered when sudden deaths occur in individuals with esophageal motility disorders, as well as in other situations where the Valsalva maneuver may have been used, and where no other anatomic cause of death is identified.
SEM Analysis of Incinerated Teeth as an Aid to Positive Identification
Authors: Fairgrieve SI 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Tooth crown and root fragments from a crime scene in which the remains were purposefully cremated, crushed and scattered were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) in order to aid the identification process. The SEM was used to confirm the presence of parallel striations in tooth enamel and dentine as a means of determining past dental restoration. In the case presented, incinerated tooth fragments of determined type and position were subjected to SEM analysis, and ascertained to have had previous dental work that matched antemortem dental records of a missing person.
Prenatal Exclusion of Paternity by PCR-FLP Analysis of VNTR
Authors: Arroyo E , García-Sánchez F , Gómez-Reino F , Ruiz de la Cuesta JM , Vicario JL 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A prenatal paternity test was requested by a 30-year-old woman. Variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) systems were used for DNA analysis by means of amplification and electrophoresis followed by ethidium bromide staining or Southern blotting and oligonucleotide hybridization. Exclusion of paternity could be established on the basis of the great polymorphism and heterozygosity indexes of these genetic systems. This rapid method presents several advantages in contrast with other recombinant DNA techniques such as HLA class II oligotyping or RFLP.
Terminal Ballistics of the 9mm with Action Safety Bullet or Blitz-Action-Trauma (BAT) Ammunition
Authors: Lantz PE , Stone RS , Broudy D , Morgan TM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Specialty ammunition creating atypical gunshot wounds of entrance can create confusion and may be misinterpreted by pathologists unfamiliar with the terminal ballistics of these projectiles. The previously unreported wound ballistics caused by the 9mm with Action Safety bullet described in a homicide highlights the atypical entrance wound(s) and wounding capacity of this novel ammunition. Manufactured by Geco division of Dynamit Nobel, the bullet consists of a nonjacketed solid copper alloy bullet body without a conventional lead core. The large deformation well and part of the smaller central channel is filled with a hard plastic core and post that creates a round nose bullet. The internal ballistics and unique design allow the plastic nose cap and post to separate from the copper alloy base while still in the barrel. The radiolucent nose cap leaves the bullet's path but can still penetrate tissue giving the appearance of a separate but smaller entrance wound. The sharp leading edge of the deformation well and relative high velocity of the bullet body creates a punched out entrance wound with minimal marginal abrasion. When the plastic nose cap or fragments of the plastic post impact the subject, test firings may allow an inference to the muzzle-target distance even in the absence of soot deposition or stippling.
A Retrospective and Prospective Study of Cerebral Tissue Pulmonary Embolism in Severe Head Trauma
Authors: Collins KA , Davis GJ 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
In an attempt to determine the incidence of pulmonary embolization of cerebral tissue as the result of severe head trauma with and without dural penetration, we have collected the autopsy reports at our institution of all head injury victims over the past 3.5 years. The retrospective and prospective histologic examination of these cases revealed a total of 10% to have emboli of cerebral tissue within the pulmonary vasculature. Immunohistochemical staining of the emboli confirmed the neural origin of the tissue. The dura mater proved to be intact in 70% of the cases of cerebral embolization. We feel this provides evidence that embolization of cerebral tissue may occur without rupture of the dura and/or large venous sinuses. This observation is of clinical as well as forensic importance, as cerebral tissue emboli are a rich source of thromboplastin in the systemic and pulmonary vasculature and may contribute to the morbidity and mortality of head injuries.
Death Investigation Report Forms (DIRFs): Generic Forms for Investigators (IDIRFs) and Certifiers (CDIRFs)
Authors: Hanzlick R , Gibson Parrish R 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
On the basis of data collection procedures and forms used in various death investigation offices, we developed generic death investigation report forms (DIRFs). One form was designed for documenting information collected by the initial investigator of death, and another form was designed for documenting information collected by the medical examiner, pathologist, or other person who certifies the death or otherwise finalizes the investigation by determining the cause, manner, and circumstances of death. The benefits, problems, and criteria associated with designing the forms are discussed. Both the investigators DIRF (IDIRF) and the certifier's DIRF (CDIRF) are available in printed or electronic form for those who wish to use them or to modify them according to their specific needs. We hope that these DIRFs will be useful and promote uniformity in documenting death investigations.
Standard Language in Death Investigation Laws
Authors: Hanzlick R , Gibson Parrish R , Combs D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Death investigation statutes and practices vary among the 50 states. We reviewed the Model Postmortem Examinations Act, recommendations of the National Association of Medical Examiners, the College of American Pathologists' “criteria for autopsies,” and the death investigation statutes and practices in each state. By consolidating the terminology from these various information sources, we developed a list of death categories for which investigation by medical examiners or coroners in the United States is either mandated, commonly performed, or recommended. The list contains specific categories of death, which fall under these three more general areas: 1) unexpected and unexplained deaths, 2) deaths from intentional and unintentional external causes, and 3) deaths that fall under specialized categories related to the decedent's age, environment, or medical conditions, or to the method of bodily disposition. To promote greater uniformity in the death investigation practices among states, we recommend that the Model Postmortem Examinations Act be modified to explicitly recommend certain types of deaths for investigation and that states modify their death investigation statutes to conform to such provisions. Presently, in states where death investigation statutes lack specificity in detailing the types of deaths that should be reported for possible medico-legal investigation, our recommendations, if not in conflict with local statutes, might be used as practice guidelines for the reporting and investigation of certain types of deaths.
Fatal Injuries Caused by Guns Using Shotshell: Case Reports and Ballistic Studies
Authors: Rougé D , Telmon N , Alengrin D , Marril G , Bras P-M , Arbus L 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The authors present six cases of homicide and suicide in which the weapon involved was a handgun using shotshell. The injuries caused are described and the ballistic characteristics of the weapons are studied. Such weapons, which are relatively easy to obtain, are not as innocuous as they may appear, since they may be modified either by changing the barrel or by removal of the device inside the barrel which is intended to prevent the firing of solid slugs.
Homicide Among Black Males in Jefferson County, Alabama 1978–1989
Authors: Fine PR , Roseman JM , Constandinou CM , Brissie RM , Glass JM , Wrigley JM 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
This study examined 1505 of 1573 (96%) homicides occurring in Jefferson County, Alabama, between 1978 and 1989, that were investigated by the Coroner/Medical Examiners' Office. During this 12 year period, Jefferson County's average annual homicide rate was 18.9 per 100,000 compared to an 11.3 per 100,000 State of Alabama's rate and a 9.3 per 100,000 US rate.
In Jefferson County, the average annual homicide rate among blacks (41.4) was almost six times the rate among whites (7.1). The highest average annual race-specific homicide rate was in black males (75.9), followed by black females (12.4), white males (10.4) and white females (4.1). Black males in the 25–34 year age group had the highest rate (159.7), followed by black males in the 35–44 year age group (151.7) and then by black males in the 15–24 year age group (96.2). These rates ranged from almost eight to over eleven times the rates of similarly aged, black females or white males and were over 33 times higher than the rates for white females of the same age.
Our results emphasize the high rates of black male on black male violence, the acquaintance of the black male victim and perpetrator, and the importance of arguments as an inciting event.
Moreover, we determined that while the raw numbers and rates for black homicides were and are staggering, the average annual homicide rate for black males was actually declining at a greater rate than for all other race-sex groups. Further, our results suggest that a number of hypothesized determinants commonly believed to be associated with the increase in the homicide rate among black males between 15 and 24 years of age, such as drug use, increased availability of firearms and increased child abuse were not, in fact, major determinants of the change in homicide rates.
Detection of the 4977 Base Pair Mitochondrial DNA Deletion in Paraffin-Embedded Heart Tissue Using the Polymerase Chain Reaction—A New Method to Probe Sudden Cardiac Death Molecular Mechanisms?
Authors: Fouret PJ , Nicolas G , Lecomte D 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Detection of mitochondrial DNA deletions is performed in fresh or frozen material. At our institute, however, heart samples from subjects referred for autopsy are systematically processed for histologic examination (that is, paraffin-embedded). We were interested to know if mtDNA deletions can be detected in such material. Our data indicate that: 1) the most frequently observed deletion—the 4977 base pair deletion—can easily be detected in paraffin-embedded heart tissue; 2) this assay is sufficiently sensitive, since very low levels of the deletion can be found in normal heart tissue from young adults; and 3) buffered formalin appears to be the fixative of choice.
Recent literature shows that repeated episodes of ischemia result in the accumulation of mtDNA deletions in myocardial cells. Because ischemic heart disease is a major cause of sudden cardiac death, a sensitive method for the detection of mtDNA damage in myocardial cells will be an important tool to facilitate understanding of unexpected cardiac arrest mechanisms.
Forensic Characteristics of Colored Polyethylene Bags
Authors: Nir-El Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
The inorganic elemental profiles of colored polyethylene bags were determined by X-ray fluorescence spectroscopy. Homogeneity in single bags and reproducibility of bags in a batch were ascertained. The probability of an incorrect matching of two very similar yellow bag batches was found to be 10−9 to 10−8, while a bag is attributed to its batch with a relatively high probability of the order of 1. These characteristics can be applied in the forensic examination of the colored polyethylene bags often used in drug abuse. Similar properties are reported for transparent polyethylene (no pigment additives), where the concentration of zinc was 0.6 ± 0.1 ppm.
Estimation of Age at Death Using Cortical Histomorphometry of the Sternal End of the Fourth Rib
Authors: Stout SD , Dietze WH , Işcan MY , Loth SR 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
Given the often fragmentary nature of unidentified human remains, and the importance of using multiple criteria to estimate age at death, it is essential to have a variety of methods that use different anatomical sampling sites. In this study, osteon population densities (OPDs) were determined from transverse sections removed from an area immediately adjacent to the sternal ends of 60 autopsy rib samples. Regression analysis was performed using age at death as the dependent variable and OPD as the independent variable. The results of a “training set/test set” strategy to evaluate the performance of the histological age predicting model indicates that it provides reasonably reliable and accurate age estimates. A multiple regression model using both OPD and the mean age for a rib's morphological age according to the phase method of Işcan et al. [7,8] is also presented. This later age predicting model is recommended when both methods are applicable.
Discrimination of Ceramics—Study on the Microstructures of Ceramics
Authors: Hashimoto T , Deki S , Kanaji Y 
Published: August 2015

Abstract
A method for discrimination of alumina ceramics was developed based on the observation of the surface morphology of etched surfaces, density, X-ray diffraction line profiles and grain size distributions.
The experimental observations of the surface microstructure were made, using the scanning electron microscopy (SEM), on several different alumina ceramics with high (&gt;99%), middle (96 to 98%) and low (approximately 92%) alumina content in order to identify them. The samples were prepared with a sulfuric acid (4.5 mol/L) etching method performed at 150 ≈ 200°C for 2 h on low and middle purity alumina ceramics and for 4 h on high purity alumina ceramics.
The results indicate that the SEM observation coupled with computerized image analysis to determine grain size distribution is a powerful tool to discriminate among alumina ceramics that exhibit similar morphological characteristics.
The X-ray diffraction line profile study is suggested as an additional useful index for the determination of microcrystalline structure.